'The Whispers of Love'

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"LET GO OF ME!"

"YOU WANT IT, YOU KNOW YOU DO"

"NO! GET AWAY!"

"SHUT UP BITCH!"

Those words rung in Serena's ear like lyrics from a song. Hearing those horrid words from a man that took her innocence. It had been three years since she graduated from college, three years since she was raped, and three years since her rapist was given the justice he deserved. How could she have been so ignorant? She was always told it wasn't her fault; it was never the victim's fault.

Serena lived with her older sister, Mina, in a decent looking apartment. Mina could hear her sister breathing hard and knowing she was going to scream. Mina opened the door quickly and ran to Serena's side. Serena was lying in her bed, sheets thrown over her legs, her perspiration dripping down her face dissolving to her shirt. She could never wakeup from her dreams, even if they were too horrifying for words.

"Serena? Serena? Wakeup!" Mina shook her sister. Serena shot up from her bed, trying to find the ability to breath. Her eyes were watering from the crying she had done in her sleep. Mina sat on Serena's bed with her arms encircled around her sister's shoulder. Serena jumped up from her bed and walked onto her balcony. It was in the middle of autumn, she could feel the cool wind dry her tears. Serena gained back her normal breathing and stopped sweating. She was so afraid to sleep at night. Afraid that someone will come into her room in the middle of the night, afraid to see the images of her rape again, afraid of life itself.

Mina had suggested a few times that Serena see a therapist or joined a group. If Serena couldn't talk to her own sister, what would a perfect stranger do for her? Serena clapped her head into her hands and listened to the door behind her open. Mina walked out onto the balcony and put her arm around Serena's shoulders.

"It's been three years Mina, why won't it go away?" Serena began sobbing.

"It was a horrible experience Serena, that's something you'll never forget, you'll get over it, but you'll never forget. The sun is almost up, let's make some breakfast and hot chocolate" Mina suggested. Serena sighed and nodded her head. The two sisters walked off the balcony and into the kitchen. The two made good livings for themselves. Mina was an agent Serena was an artist. She loved to paint.

Her paintings were well known in many museums. Most of them, nobody was allowed to see. Mina has snuck a look at them a few times, and she realized whey Serena would not allow anybody to bestow their eyes upon them. Serena brought out the eggs and milk while Mina started up the oven. Serena could still feel a bit of sweat running down her shirt. Serena watched the sun peak through the double window doors of their living room. She had to get to work on her next piece. The great thing about being an artist, she could do her work at her own home.

"What's your next work going to be on?" Mina tried to find some conversation through this awkward silence.

"I'm not sure. I'll know when eight o 'clock roles around," Serena answered.

"You know what you need? You need to get out of this apartment and go have some fun," Mina suggested.

"I do have fun, just that I don't have the time or the energy" Serena defended, which wasn't a very good defense.

"That was lousy. Tell you what, tomorrow night, let's make it a girls night out and possibly a double date."

"Girl's night out does not mean double dates, besides I really don't want to date anybody right now" Serena started cracking the eggs into the pan.

"Serena, it's been three years. I know how horrible you must feel, but you can't shut out the rest of your life"

"I know it's been three years. The fact that I'm still afraid terrifies the hell out of me. What am I going to do Mina? I can't sleep at night and when I do I keep seeing him over and over. Going out with another guy would just make me remind myself that his kind did something horrible."

"You can't blame all men. You have to got to remember that there are actually some decent men" Mina tried to explain to Serena. Serena stirred the eggs and started putting them on glass plates. Mina took one plate and walked over to the kitchen table. Serena turned off the oven and placed the skillet in the sink and joined her sister at the table. The two ate in silence.

"I need to start getting ready for work. Do you still want to do something tomorrow night? It's Friday and we have the weekend to do whatever the hell we want." Serena stared at her sister as Mina placed her plate into the sink.

"I suppose that'll be fine. We'd have to wait until after the opening in the museum, that's when my deadline is due," Serena said to Mina.

"Sounds like a deal to me, see-ya Serena," Mina started towards her bedroom as Serena placed her dishes into the sink.

Mina left the apartment with Serena putting on her overalls and white tank top. The living room turned into her painting studio while Mina went to her office. Serena placed painting sheets on the furniture and onto the floor. She closed the curtains and turned on her light bulbs around the portraits. Serena brought her secret portfolio and opened it on the floor. They were the portraits that she allowed no one to see. Before proceeding with her painting, she walked over to her stereo and turned on a song by Celine Dion.

------>When I was young
------>I never needed anyone
------>And making love was just for fun
------>Those days are gone

She enjoyed Celine Dion's voice and the lyrics were moving to her. Serena walked away from the stereo and kneeled down to her portfolio. She took out one unfinished painting and placed it on her canvas. A portrait of a girl kneeling before a red puddle and a bit of red dripping from her hands and her eyes. The face of the girl was not yet completed. Serena sighed as she stood before her portrait and listened to the soothing lyrics.

------>Living alone
------>I think of all the friends I've known
------>When I dial the telephone
------>Nobody's home

Living alone? Seemed like that's what she was doing. Although Mina was always by her side, she still had to do it on her own. Serena picked up her paintbrush and began stroking up and down, side to side, wherever she could place her brush. For a while she felt lost in the colors. Red. That was really all she could see at the moment. Anger, sadness, fear, blood, no there was no love anywhere. Serena had to admit her sister was right, she did need to get out of the apartment.

Meeting someone was not an option. She didn't want to be with a man nor woman. When innocence and trust is taken away, how can one redeem it back to her? Serena asked herself this question many times. She sighed as she stopped brushing on the portrait and concentrated on a new upcoming one that will appear a museum exhibit soon. Serena pulled out her portrait of the moon with a rose and veins growing around it. Something she has seen in a dream before; a good dream.

------>All by myself
------>Don't wanna live
------>All by myself
------>Anymore

------>Hard to be sure
------>Sometimes I feel so insecure
------>And loves so distant and obscure
------>Remains the cure

Love? Was there really such thing as love? Her sister was always one for mushy romance novels, so in her case she believes in love. Serena never found a reason to believe that love exists even before three years ago. Her parents never loved one another even though they tried their best not to show it in front of her and Mina. Her mind drifted back and forth, in and out of reality, especially at a time where she must reach a deadline. Serena listened to the last of the lyrics and continued painting.

------>All by myself
------>Don't wanna live
------>All by myself
------>Anymore

The night for girl's night finally came. Before they could start, Serena had to make an appearance at the museum for her next painting. The place was crowded as always on an opening. The two blondes walked into the museum and walked around looking at other paintings. A few sheets were covered over new paintings including Serena's. Mina and Serena walked around the crowed where they were almost alone, but not completely.

"It's beautiful Serena, a work of art as always" Mina complimented.

"Thank you"

"I have an idea of what you and I could do for a girls night," Mina offered.

"What's that?"

"We could take a pottery class."

"A pottery class? Since when are you in taking a certain type of art class? Much less pottery which is kind of difficult if you know what you're doing" Serena responded.

"I was with a client today and he talked about this pottery class that he takes and that the teacher there is a real artist himself. Well, he's an art professor during the days and at nights he's a pottery teacher," Mina explained.

"You're not trying to set me up are you?"

"No, I thought this guy was kind of cute so I was hoping that I could possibly see him tonight" Mina confessed, which wasn't a complete lie.

"What about your rule against dating clients?"

"I can make an exception, what do you say?" Serena sighed and nodded in response. After her painting was uncovered and complimented, the two left the gallery and headed to the pottery class. Serena and Mina arrived to the class where there were a few men, older men, and a few women. Serena and Mina sat next to one another on the right side of the room. Serena waited for the teacher to arrive while Mina mingled with the men.

The teacher walked into the class, which he did catch Serena's eye, but not enough for her to keep looking. The teacher had dark raven hair with an earring in his left ear. He dressed like many art guys dressed, from what Serena saw. He had on a white-buttoned shirt with a black muscle shirt covering his chest and khaki pants reaching to his ankles. Serena had to admit he was handsome.

"Welcome back to pottery class. I see we have some new faces, I'm glad. For the new people, I'm Darien Shields. Today, we'll just try a random thing, see what the new people know and what the rest of you can do from previous classes," the Darien instructed. Mina scooted over towards Serena.

"If you look in the dictionary, next to the word 'gorgeous' you will definitely see his picture" Mina whispered.

"Mina, did you come here to do pottery or did you come here to scope guys?" Serena asked as she turned on her pottery wheel. She started molding the clay with her hands as Mina just sat in her seat and watched.

"Well checking out guys was part of the reason, I mean you know me. You can't tell me that the pottery teacher isn't hot!"

"Are you going to do this the entire time we are here?" Serena asked, as her thumbs poked a hole in the clay as it continued to twirl with the wheel. Darien walked by Serena and took a seat quietly next to her. He watched her as she turned the little piece of clay into an elegant looking vase. He looked at her face and couldn't help but stare, she was stunning. Serena felt a pair of eyes glued on her; she started to get nervous. Mina looked at Serena and sensed she was getting tense.

"Serena, it's all right, he's just watching you make the vase" Mina tried to assure Serena. Serena calmed down a little, but she was still panicky. She continued to mold her vase as Darien moved away from his sitting position and tapped Serena on the shoulder gently.

"Are you new?" he asked.

"Yes"

"You're doing very well. I take it you've done this before."

"I've made bowls, never vases, so technically I haven't done this before," Serena felt her nervousness descend from her body. She couldn't remember the last time she even spoke to a guy.

"I'm sorry if I was staring, but you look familiar" Darien took another seat next to Serena as she turned off the wheel; Mina was right next to Serena the whole time.

"How so?" she asked.

"I can't quite put my finger on it..." Darien couldn't finish his sentence. Mina had to chime into the conversation before Serena could try to blow him off.

"Familiar huh? Do you look at a lot of paintings?" Mina asked.

"I own quite a few actually"

"This is Serena Miller, also known on her paintings Serena Silver,"

"MINA!" Serena hated the fact that her sister would brag about Serena being a famous painter. Serena didn't even consider herself famous. Darien's eyes widened.

"You're THE Serena Silver?"

"If you must know, yes I am, and please do not brag or shout it out" Serena tried hush him up.

"Oh no problem, I'm a big fan of your work. I've even taught some of my students from your paintings, you are quite artistic" Serena couldn't help but blush. People giving her compliments made her a bit uncomfortable, but she enjoyed some of the compliments.

"I'm glad you like my paintings. Oh, this is Mina Miller, my so-called sister" Serena introduced Mina.

"Serena for some odd reason likes to keep this kind of stuff about her private. Just so you know, my sister is 100% available" Serena could not believe her sister just said that.

"Well, it was nice meeting you Mr. Shields, but my sister and I are going home now, see you whenever" Mina pulled off her pottery shirt and dragged Mina out of the building with clay still on her hands.

"I can't believe you said that to him!" Serena yelled at her sister while entering the apartment room.

"Serena, come on, he was interested"

"What in hell does that have to do with anything?"

"So, you're just going to not date anybody for the rest of your life?"

"I'm not ready Mina" Serena courted.

"It's been three years Serena. You have got to move on, I know that you are still afraid, but you can't pass up anything like this,"

"Like what? He's an art professor meaning he thinks for a living. What would he have in common with me?" Serena wished she hadn't asked that question. She remembered that he had taught her paintings to his students.

"Hello?! He's a fan of your paintings. He's an ART professor, meaning you two would have much in common. Give it a shot Serena, I'll be damned if I'm going to let you ruin this when it hasn't started yet." Serena looked at her sister, speechless. What else could she say? She was right, it has been three years, she had to get over it, but something inside still made her terrified to allow a man near her.

"I'm going to bed, tomorrow I'm going shopping for some more paints do we need anything?" Serena asked.

"No wee don't need anything. Serena, at least make me a promise?"

"What's that?"

"Don't be afraid to go with emotion. Just don't run away from it" Serena looked at her sister and smiled. She continued to walk to her room and shut the door behind her. She leaned against her bedroom door and looked around. Her bed was never made; she never stayed long enough to sleep in it. She had a sizeable amount of space in her room for her paintings to sit around on covers. Serena removed herself from the door and lay down on her bed. Her thoughts turned to Darien. He was handsome. She managed to fall sleep at midnight, her usual bedtime.

Serena woke up early the next morning. Not usually something she would do, unless she had a nightmare. She took a shower, got dressed and headed out the door to the art store. She always went to one specific store, Hobby Lobby. Great store for art supplies, she always found everything she needed. Serena walked into Hobby Lobby wearing an orange tank top with a white-buttoned shirt and a pair of holy blue jeans.

A/N: When I say holy, I mean has holes in them. Just a little fact.

Serena walked around the store, looking up and down. She was looking for paints, but she always looked around for something more. She walked passed the fabrics, passed the pastels and charcoal, and walked through the paintings. Every now and then she would catch sight of somebody buying a copy of her paintings, which she couldn't help but giggle a bit.

"Serena?" a man's voice called. Serena was a bit startled, but she turned her head towards the voice.

"Mr. Shields?" she responded. Darien had been walking around the store for the last half hour.

"So formal, call me Darien. Mr. Shields makes me feel like I'm talking to a student of mine."

"It's almost nine o'clock don't you have a class to teach?" Serena asked, still a bit nervous around him.

"Actually, I have one in about twenty minutes. Why don't you stop by one of my classes sometime?" Darien offered.

"Why would I want to do that?" Serena asked.

"Just to check it out. I think my students would get a kick out of seeing you there"

"Not a lot of people know what I do Mr. Shields...er Darien. Thanks for the offer though" Serena began walking away, hoping the guy would take a hint, he didn't.

"If ever you change your mind, here" Darien pulled out a small business card of the college he taught and handed it to Serena. Serena stopped walking and took the card slowly. What was with this guy? Was he trying to hint on something for her?

"Do you usually have painters come to audit your class?" Serena asked.

"Sometimes. I've always wondered about you. The one mysterious painter that nobody can seem to figure out; something that I hope I can over come" Darien responded. Serena looked up at the professor. He had beautiful eyes; she had to admit. He was wearing small glasses, which made him look like a professor a cute professor. He wasn't dressed in a nice outfit for a teacher, but he could still pull it off. He wore messy jeans and a dark blue navy sweater.

"I think I better be going"

"I hope to see you again. Maybe we can get together for some coffee," Darien offered. Serena was a little taken back, but not enough to where Darien could notice. Serena turned around to face him, still walking backwards.

"I don't drink coffee."

Serena arrived to the apartment to find Mina sitting on their couch, watching one of her soap operas. Serena couldn't stand soap operas. Horrible acting, and such soppy plots; she couldn't stand them. Serena closed the door behind her and placed the two paper bags she was carrying on the kitchen counter. Mina turned off the television and walked over to the counter.

"I thought you had to work today" Serena courted her sister, making herself a cup of hot chocolate.

"I decided to take the day off. What's this?" Mina picked the card Darien gave to Serena. Serena turned around to see her sister holding the card and immediately snatched it out of her hand.

"It's just a card, no big deal," Serena said, placing it in her jean pocket.

"Then why does it say Darien Shields?"

"It's his business card to the college he teaches. He wants me to come by one day to watch him teach" Serena explained, although she had no idea why she was explaining this to her sister.

"He's trying to get you to go on a date with him huh?" Mina asked in excitement.

"Well, I'm sorry that he's wasting his precious time" Serena whispered.

"Serena, you made me a promise"

"I know I did"

"Has he tried to ask you on a date? Where did you see him anyway?" Mina was asking questions left and right.

"He was at Hobby Lobby. He said he wants to try and figure out my mysteries as a painter."

"Oh Serena, he was hitting on you that is so sweet" Mina sighed. She wished she had luck with men the way Serena did, well sort of.

"Mina, it is not sweet, it's sickening"

"Then why did you take this card? So, knowing you, when a man gives you a card you take a match and burn it right about now. Are you keeping it or something?" Mina asked, pointing to the pocket that the card was sitting in. Unfortunately, Serena did not have any matches, but she wasn't going to burn it. For once she did not have an answer to one of Mina's coy questions.

"Are you going to his class or what?" Mina asked.

"I have been thinking about it yes. I'm not sure that I should though" Serena responded.

"What's the worst that could happen?" Mina asked. Serena didn't answer Mina's question. 'Yeah, what could be the worst?'

Serena decided to wait until the next day to visit Darien's classroom. Mina left for the office next morning. Serena hadn't slept throughout the night. Afraid of what images her mind would come up with in her sleep without her knowledge. Serena walked over by the couch and plopped into a sitting position. Serena found Darien's card laying on the coffee table. Mina must have placed it there, knowing that Serena would see it.

Serena picked the card up and started flipping it over her fingers, debating to herself whether or not to go. Geez, she never thought she had to think about situations like this. The man was gorgeous; there was no doubt about it in Serena's mind. Serena's eyes focused on the answering machine; the little red light was blinking. Serena removed herself from the couch and pushed the play button.

ONE NEW MESSAGE I know you are sitting on that couch, twirling the card between your fingers and debating on whether or not you should go to the class. Well, here's a tip. YOU BETTER GET YOUR ASS OVER THERE!!! See-ya sis love you.

What was she doing? Serena asked herself this question all throughout the drive to the college. She pulled into a visitor's parking spot and locked her car. She took a glance at the card and began walking, looking for Darien's class. After searching for nearly twenty minutes, Serena found Darien's class. The door was wide open. She got a glance at Darien sitting on his desk reading a piece of paper. The class seemed to be taking an exam. She saw many canvases around the classroom, charcoal drawings, paintings, pastel drawings; Serena loved them all.

Darien felt someone was standing in the doorway and sure enough he was correct. Darien placed the piece of paper on his desk and walked over by Serena.

"I missed you yesterday," he commented. Serena couldn't help but blush a bright red color on her face.

"I wanted to get a head start on my next line up" which wasn't a complete lie.

"I'm glad you came, come in" Darien showed Serena into the class and shut the door behind her. Serena sighed as she took a seat near his desk. A few students pulled their heads from the papers to see who had walked into the classroom. Immediately, some of the students recognized her. Darien glanced at his watch.

"All right, pencils down. Today, we have a visitor. By the looks of some of you, I'm guessing you already know who she is."

"You're Serena Silver, aren't you?" a girl asked.

"My real name is Serena Miller, I use Serena Silver as a pen name, but yes" Serena answered.

"Are you going to look at our exam drawings?" one boy asked. Serena looked at Darien with a confusing look.

"They had two exams, a paper exam, and a drawing exam. Maybe, since you are more of an expert, maybe you could look at their drawings and you can critique them," Darien suggested. Serena's widened. She couldn't critique drawings. She wouldn't really know how.

"I'm really not sure if I could do that"

"It would be an honor" one girl said. Serena sighed. Who was she to disappoint her fans?

"I could try" she responded.

"Great, I want you all to place your drawings in the same circle as we always do" Darien commanded. Serena sat in her seat, wondering what she had gotten herself into. As the students grabbed their drawings and put them in the circle, Darien stood beside her.

"After class, since you don't drink coffee, how about we meet for a soda or something?" Serena sighed. He was trying so hard to get her to go on a little date, not even a date with him.

"I..."

"Mr. Shields we're ready" one student called out to Darien. Darien helped Serena out of her chair and towards the drawings. Serena saw many drawings and many paintings. She enjoyed looking at each and every one. Serena gave each student a critique about his or her drawing. A few students requested that Serena paint something of her own. That was the only thing Serena wouldn't do. If anything, she didn't like people watching her paint unless the painting was finished. After an hour and a half, Darien dismissed his class. Before Serena could walk out of the classroom, Darien called out to her.

"You never did answer my question," he said.

"What question?"

"If you would accompany me for a drink, anything you want, soda, tea, hot chocolate" Serena couldn't turn down hot chocolate.

"I guess that's fine" Serena gave in. Darien smiled as he led Serena out of his classroom and down the street of the college. The two sat a little table in a small café. After ordering their drinks, Darien spoke with Serena. At least she was in public, what could go wrong?

"I'm glad that you came to my class today"

"I actually enjoyed myself" Serena responded.

"I know this seems so sudden, but how good is your literature?" Darien changed the conversation quickly as the waitress brought their drinks.

"I had high marks in literature, why?" Serena asked.

"There is a sort of get together that my fellow professors are putting together. I would like you to accompany me to this get together" Darien responded taking a sip of coffee. Serena was afraid this was going to happen. What was she going to say to him? She didn't want to date him, did she? Now she was confusing herself with her own questions.

"I'm not sure"

"I'd really like for you to come" Darien sounded almost as if he was begging her.

"I don't really feel comfortable at parties now a days. Some things that have happened when I was in college; parties don't seem appealing to me anymore" that was partial truth.

"Trust me, this isn't a party. It's just something that the professors come up with. It's like going to a book meeting, but you discuss literature. Shakespeare, poetry, stories, anything if you don't feel comfortable there when we arrive, I'll gladly bring you home" Darien promised. Serena was about to decline his offer when she remembered what Mina said.

'Don't be afraid to go with emotion. Just don't run away from it'

She hated when her sister said things that stayed in her head. Serena looked at Darien whom was still waiting for an answer. She was still skeptical about going out with Darien. What could really happen at a professor get together?

"I guess it'll be fun, sure I'd like to go"

"Great, do you want me to pick you up, or do you want to meet there?" well at least he wasn't going fast with this 'date.'

"Why don't I just meet you there. Where is it going to be?"

"Do you know that huge house on the end of Willow Drive?" he asked. Serena passed that house all the time.

"Yes"

"It's going to be in that house at eight o'clock tonight. I will be waiting for you there" he said softly as he got up from his seat and paid the check to the cashier. He'll be waiting for me? What does that mean? Serena was getting nervous again. No, he wasn't going to do anything to her, he's a nice guy he wouldn't do anything, would he?

"Who are you?"

"You outta know who I am. Unless you don't pay attention"

"GET AWAY FROM ME!"

"YOU TEASE, YOU SHOULD BE PUNISHED FOR BEING A BAD GIRL!"

Serena inhaled sharply from the flash back. Luckily for her, Darien did not see the look on her face. He arrived from paying the check and sat back down across from her. Serena got up suddenly after saying her goodbye to Darien and walked quickly to her car. She hated it when she kept getting flash backs of that horrible night. Now, she had to ponder whether or not she'd got to the gathering.

Serena drove to Willow Drive, and she saw the house she always passed by. The house looked more like a hotel rather than an actual house. Serena managed to find a parking place by the house. She got out of the car in her sleeveless blouse and loose pants. She didn't own a single dress or a skirt, so she picked the closest outfit to looking formal. She walked slowly to the house, she could hear people talking and laughing. She heard the piano playing Chopin. She raised her fist slowly and knocked on the door. An old man with a gray gouty around his face answered the door. He was quite large, but he smiled gracefully to Serena.

"You must be Serena" he greeted.

"I guess word travels fast," Serena answered.

"Professor Shields is waiting for you," the man said. Serena nodded her head as the old man led her to Darien. Darien looked to find Serena walking over to him. He excused himself from the group was in and met her halfway.

"I was about to get worried," he said to her.

"Well, I'm here now" she answered. Darien took Serena's hand gracefully as he led her to a couch where there was a deep conversation going on. A lady with a black lacy dress drinking a martini was laughing. Serena's ears cringed at the sound of the lady. Darien couldn't help but chuckle, his ears thought the same thing. To Darien's dismay, the lady caught a glimpse at Darien sitting with Serena. She walked by Darien and took a chair next to him.

"Hello Darien, I sure have missed you" she courted with Darien.

"Wish I could say the same thing" Darien mumbled to where Serena was giggling.

"Who is your...friend?" the lady asked.

"I'm Serena, and you are?"

"I'm Gwendolyn Sims. Darien, perhaps you would like to discuss with us your favorite Shakespeare work" Gwendolyn changed the subject quickly. The same old man joined into the conversation along with a few more ladies like Gwendolyn but didn't have the look hatred toward Serena.

"I'm partial to Julius Caesar" Darien answered. Gwendolyn chuckled, showing her flashy white smile. Darien saw something sticking out in between her two front teeth Serena saw it as well.

"Well, my favorite, he said this, 'This above all, to thine ownself be true'" Serena looked toward Gwendolyn.

"You're talking about Hamlet, he didn't say that" Serena courted. Darien looked at Serena, wondering if she really wanted to do what she was about to do.

"I believe I would remember Hamlet more than anybody else here. I was after all, Ophella in the school play..."

"You mean Ophelia?" Serena corrected.

"If you are such the intellectual one in the group, perhaps you could tell me, if Hamlet didn't say the phrase who did?"

"Polonius" Serena answered.

"She's right you know, Gwendolyn, your Shakespeare is quite dry" the man said. Darien was enjoying this show. Gwendolyn placed her martini on the coffee table and walked to the nearest bookshelf. She pulled out The Complete Works of Shakespeare and brought it back with her to the group.

"Since you like to show off your intelligence, perhaps you could say the phrase from any play that I give you" Gwendolyn was challenging Serena, and Serena loved challenges.

"Give it a shot" Serena answered. Gwendolyn flipped through the book. Despite the objections from the group, Gwendolyn stopped.

"The play is A Midsummer Nights Dream, recite Helena's line from Act 2 Scene 1 Verse 237" Gwendolyn grinned. Serena sighed as she sat up from her seat on the couch.

"The wildest hath not such a heart as you.

Run when you will. The story shall be changed:

Apollo flies and Daphne holds the chase:

The dove pursues the griffin; the mild hind

Makes speed to catch the tiger. Bootless speed

When cowardice pursues and valor flies." Gwendolyn's mouth hung open as Serena recited the entire verse. Darien smiled at Serena. Serena lay back against the couch and waited for someone to speak.

"By George, that was quite amazing. Gwendolyn, I believe someone has beat you out," the old man said.

"Oh please, that was quite an auspicious guess, proves nothing" Serena was quite fed up with this lady.

"Ms. Sims, I'm assuming that you are unmarried. I've had enough with your discourteous looks and your malicious comments towards me. I do not care what you think of me or why you think of me. I came here because I was asked too. Because I out smarted you with a few verses from Shakespeare you get snappy. You are acting like a juvenile not getting her piece of candy in the store because mom said no. Darien, thank you for inviting me, but I am leaving now, good night" Serena walked away from Gwendolyn, whom was in complete shock that someone had spoken to her in that tone of voice. Serena began walking to the door when Darien had caught up with her.

"Please don't leave, Gwendolyn is always a horrid person around women, especially around the men that she has her eye on" Darien explained.

"I can handle myself with her, but I choose not to" Serena responded.

"Would you please stay?" the old man pleaded. Serena looked at the old man in shock.

"I have been waiting for some kind of fire to spark in someone to challenge Gwendolyn. Do tell us about yourself?" the lady asked. Serena sighed and allowed Darien to lead her back to the couch with the rest of the group.

For a month, Darien had asked her for a cup of hot chocolate or an outing of some sort. Mina was enjoying the fact that her sister is looking happy. Serena felt comfortable about Darien, but she still had doubts about him. She still had flash backs from the horrible night, but they seemed to come fewer and fewer whenever she was with Darien. Darien had asked Serena to come to his apartment to watch a movie. She was a bit hesitant about the offer, but she decided to accept.

Serena followed Darien to his apartment after his last class for the day. He lived a few blocks from Serena's apartment. Darien had come over to her apartment once or twice. This was the first time Serena had seen Darien's apartment. The building was large; Serena wondered how anybody could find his or her apartments in this huge building. Darien parked his car next to Serena's as the two of them headed up the steps and into his apartment room. Serena walked inside. The place was truly an art person's home. There were paintings on the walls, most of them painted by her.

He was right, he had quite a few paintings. Serena looked around the room. There was a couch by the only window he had and a small television. His kitchen seemed so small, but it was enough for Darien to cook. Darien took off his jacket and took Serena's to hang by the front door. Serena looked over toward the kitchen table to find a pottery wheel. Then she remembered he was also the pottery teacher.

"This is a nice place" Serena courted, walking over to the pottery wheel.

"Thanks, I like your place better, it's a lot bigger"

"Well, how else is a painter going to create her masterpieces?"

"And that's what they are, a masterpiece, especially the painter" Darien smiled as he walked into this bedroom to change shirts. Serena couldn't help but blush.

"If you want, there's some clay next to the wheel, feel free to give the wheel a try" Darien called to Serena. Serena looked over by the wheel and sure enough there was the clay. She filled up the bowl with water and got the clay wet. Pulling the pottery wheel from the kitchen table, Darien walked from his bedroom and watched Serena plug in the wheel. She began spinning the clay after beating it to get the air holes out. Darien walked slowly towards Serena while she was sitting by the wheel.

She was breathtaking, and very intelligent. The night of the gathering was amazing. Darien grew fond of Serena. Tonight he was going to ask if he and Serena could date, exclusively. Darien slowly pulled a chair over towards Serena and sat behind her. Serena didn't hesitate, but she felt her body shake slightly.

Smoothly, Darien slipped his hands down Serena's arms and to her hands. He was holding the clay while holding her hands. Serena could feel her heart beating like a drum in a marching band. He wasn't going to hurt her, even she knew that, but the feeling was still there. The clay was slippery between Serena's fingers, making it possible for Darien to thread his fingers through hers. Serena's heart started beating faster and faster. She shouldn't feel this way, it's been three years ago whey can't she move on? Darien moved his head onto her shoulder causing Serena to turn her head to face him.

Darien inched his head closer to Serena. Serena knew what he was doing. She couldn't kiss him, not now, not sure when, but not now. Serena's heart couldn't take the pressure. She had to think of something before Darien touched her lips.

"I better go" Serena wiggled her way out of Darien's arms and hurried to the kitchen to wash her hands. Her body was still shaking from the emotions. Did she want to kiss him? Now she was more confused and more frightened than ever. Darien turned off the wheel and made his way to the kitchen.

"Are you all right? Did I do something?" Darien asked, trying to touch her hand. Serena yanked her hand away from Darien before he could touch it.

"No it's not you. Look, I have to go, I'll talk to you later" Serena rushed out of the apartment, without her jacket.

An hour later, Darien got into his car and drove to Serena's apartment. He had brought her jacket to return to her, but he also wanted to talk to her. He couldn't understand why she would just run out on him like she did. Had he done something that made her run out? He pulled into a parking place and headed up the steps to the apartment room. Mina was watching her usual television shows when Darien knocked on the door. Mina muted the television before walking to the door.

"Darien?" she asked, when she opened the door to find a confused Darien with Serena's jacket.

"Mina, is Serena here?" he asked.

"I thought she was supposed to be with you" Mina responded.

"She was, something happened and she ran out," Darien explained.

"What did you do?" Mina asked defensively.

"Mina all I did was hold her hands and I sort of hunched over for a kiss, but that's all I did I swear" Mina sighed. Serena had gone back on her promise. She ran away.

"It's all right Darien, come on in" Mina allowed Darien into the apartment room.

"I'm not sure what happened..."

"Darien, was tonight supposed to be something special?" Mina asked.

"I was going to ask Serena to be my girlfriend," he answered. Mina breathed in and out. Darien was growing more and more caring for Serena and she knew this. She knew what she had to do.

"Darien, if you really care for Serena, come with me" Mina courted as she walked to Serena's bedroom. Darien felt hesitant going into Serena's personal space. Mina pulled out a large portfolio with Serena's portraits inside. Darien walked slowly into her room and watched Mina pull out one portrait at a time. Darien was astounded. The portraits were so intense for Serena Silver to paint.

The picture of the woman kneeling towards a puddle of blood, a woman covered with see-through sheets holding her chest for dear life, the portraits went on and on. Darien sat back in a chair near Serena's computer. Something horrible had happened to Serena. Nobody could paint something so grotesque as the woman kneeling.

"Mina, did something happen to Serena?" Darien asked, still shocked. Serena had walked into the apartment unnoticed to Darien and Mina. Before Mina could answer, Serena whispered loud enough for Darien and Mina to hear.

"Yes" she answered. Darien looked toward Serena. Mina just stood before Darien and Serena, not knowing what to say to her.

"I think I'll leave the two of you to talk" Mina said as she walked past Serena patting her lightly on the back before leaving the room.

"Serena, what happened?"

"It could take a while to explain" Serena answered.

"I've got the time if you do" Darien responded. Serena sighed, knowing that going back down that memory would bring more tears to her. She pushed back a portrait to sit next to Darien.

"This was three years ago, after Mina and I graduated from college..."

.:Three Years Earlier:.

Graduation was more than what anybody could hope for, the end of college and to move on with what life throws. Mina and Serena arrived to their new apartment to get ready for an end of the year party. Serena was excited. She had her degree, her life as a painter was getting started and she was living with her sister. Serena wore a pink skirt that stopped above the knees with a sleeveless buttoned blouse. Mina wore the same except her outfit was orange. They arrived at the party while everybody was throwing toilet paper around the roof of the house.

Mina and Serena talked to many of the guys that they considered 'big brothers.' Serena and Mina knew better to bring their own drinks at a college party. Serena started walking away with her bottle of Dasani water, with Mina still keeping an eye on her sister. A shadow was watching Serena the entire time. Serena hadn't noticed, since quite a few people would stare at her, but she would pay no attention. She was interested in finding a relationship, just not yet.

Serena talked with a few of her girlfriends and a few of her guy friends, enjoying herself. She was out of college free as a bird and living her dream. Her perfect world seemed to disappear before her eyes when she felt a grip on her arm pull her into a room. She lost her balance and fell onto something soft. A bed. There was a bed in the room. She heard the door lock behind her before she tried to get up from the bed.

"Where do you think you're going?" the voice asked harshly pushing her down on the bed.

"Who are you?"

"You outta know who I am. Unless you don't pay attention"

"GET AWAY FROM ME!"

"YOU TEASE, YOU SHOULD BE PUNISHED FOR BEING A BAD GIRL!" the man jumped on top of Serena, holding her wrists down on the bed. Serena was a strong woman, but the guy over powered her. Who was this guy? Why was he doing this? Serena tried once again.

"LET GO OF ME!"

"YOU WANT IT, YOU KNOW YOU DO"

"NO! GET AWAY!"

"SHUT UP BITCH!" with that, the man took his hand and put it up Serena's skirt. She felt him pull on her underwear. He pulled it completely off and three it across the room. Her legs were losing their energy to where she couldn't kick him off. He heard her unzip his pants and pull them down. Serena screamed once again, nobody heard her, or so she thought. The man began thrusting himself into Serena. She screamed in pain and tried again to struggle away from him. He had smacked her across the face and given her a gash on her lip. Before the nightmare could go any further, the door kicked open quickly.

A few of Serena and Mina's guy friends pulled the man off of Serena, dragging him outside. Serena pulled off the bed and walked slowly to a near corner. Mina ran by her sister and tried to comfort her.

"Serena..."

"Mina, that man raped me..." Serena sobbed as she began to feel numb from the struggling that she did to try to get free.

Darien listened to Serena's every word and couldn't believe a man would do this to such a wonderful woman. No wonder she walked out of his apartment. He couldn't blame her for walking out.

"How did the guys know you were in there?" he asked.

"Mina saw me get pulled into the room and tried to open the door by herself. The guy had locked it, so she got our guy friends to push it down."

"Where is this guy?" he asked.

"He's in jail. Since there were tons of witnesses, he was sent to jail for some odd years to life with no bail. All I heard that day was he was found guilty of rape and that he was sentenced to jail with no bail. Since then I haven't been the same. At least it didn't last long enough to where I didn't get a disease or get pregnant. I have flash backs of that night, I keep hearing him in my ears, no matter what I always remember."

"Oh Serena, I can't imagine what you went through. I guess I understand why you ran out tonight."

"Oh Darien, I'm so sorry I ran out like that. I have not been on a date or allowed a guy to touch me since that happened. I guess when I'm around you I don't feel so afraid as I used to, but I still can't kiss you yet" Serena explained, getting off the bed. Darien followed Serena to the doorway, grabbing her hand gently, but not pulling.

"Serena, just because something horrible happened to you, doesn't mean I don't want to have anything to do with you. Tonight I wanted to ask if you we could possibly date exclusively" Serena looked at him stunned.

"Darien, I..."

"Before you say anything, let me finish. I understand that you are not ready to kiss; I'm in no hurry with you. Being in your presence is rewarding enough for me. I'll make you a deal. I will let you make the move when you're ready. I won't try to kiss you or anything, you make the move when you are ready" Darien explained. Serena looked at the man standing before her. He was offering her a chance for her to kiss him when she was ready. Could this relationship work out?

"It could take a while" Serena responded.

"Whatever it takes"

"Then, I would love to be your girlfriend" Serena responded. Darien smiled as he gestured towards her, hoping for a hug. Serena allowed him to put his arms around her. After a few minutes of holding one another, Darien began to leave for the evening. Serena gave Darien one last hug before watching him leave the apartment. She had a small smile on her face. Mina waited for the door to shut before she walked to her sister.

"What happened?"

"Darien and I are dating exclusively,"

"I'm happy for you Serena. You broke your promise to me though tonight" Mina brought up. Serena sighed, she was afraid Mina was going to bring up the subject.

"I know I did Mina. I see it this way, I ran away from my emotions, but the emotion I ran away from came back to me with open arms."

A month and a half had gone by, Serena was enjoying herself with Darien. He had more time for her since summer vacation had come. Darien took Serena to an opera for her birthday. Darien was enjoying more and more of Serena's company. Going to her art showings was more than a privilege. Mina loved watching those two together. Darien would invite Mina along on their outings along with a friend of his, whom Mina had her eye on for quite sometime.

Serena still hadn't kissed Darien, but it didn't bother him at all. He never asked her about it nor pushed her, he never brought up kissing her since they made the deal. Darien decided to take Serena out on a picnic in the country. She was excited because she knew what she was going to do. She was going to kiss Darien for the first time. Serena put on a pair of jean shorts and a white tank top. Mina was writing in her notebook when Serena entered the living room. Mina smelled something and knew what it was.

"Serena Miller, are you wearing perfume... vanilla perfume you know that makes a guy hot" Mina commented following Serena to the kitchen.

"So I'm wearing perfume, what's the big deal?" Serena asked, pouring herself a cup of milk.

"Is this picnic going to be special?" Mina asked. Serena turned towards her sister after taking one last gulp of her milk.

"Something special may happen, but you'll find out when I return" before Mina could respond, there was a knock at the door.

"Come on in Darien" Mina called out. Mina always knew who was at the door. She couldn't understand why Serena would just give him a key; he was over here more than his own apartment. Darien walked into the apartment wearing a blue shirt with a buttoned shirt over it. Serena had to admit; he was the best thing that has ever happened to blue jeans.

"Are you ready?" he asked.

"Yes I am" Serena replied.

Darien took Serena way out into the country, which took an hour and a half to get there. Many trees and hills, something Serena hasn't seen for the longest time. Darien parked his car on one side of the dirt road. Serena enjoyed the feeling of the wind on her face and the clouds going by quickly. Darien took out the blanket and the basket and led Serena up the hills. She noticed that down the hill were green grass and a stream. Darien knew that Serena would enjoy this picnic spot. Serena gasped.

"Oh Darien, this place is beautiful" she began walking through the grass and over to the stream. The water was as clear as a crystal. She saw the rocks sitting to the bottom. Little fishes swam along with the water.

"I knew you would love this place. I found this place a few years ago. I thought it would bring some joy to you." Darien set up the blanket; waiting for Serena to come.

"I love it!" Serena exclaimed walking over onto the blanket.

"Are you hungry?" Darien needed to ask that question to Serena.

Serena and Darien spent the entire day down at the stream. Darien had cooked a delicious picnic. Serena cuddled up with Darien while the sun was starting to set. Darien always knew how to surprise Serena on their dates. He was romantic and he wasn't afraid to show it to her. Serena snuggled in closer into his embrace only allowing him to hug her tighter.

"This was a great day," Serena whispered in Darien's ear. Darien turned his head to Serena.

"I'm glad you enjoyed it" Darien responded. He noticed Serena inching her face closer to his. Darien didn't make a move. He knew what she was about to do. He continued to keep his face still until he felt Serena's lips lightly touch his. It was the first time Darien has felt her lips. How sweet they were. Darien responded to Serena's sweet kiss. The kiss started off light and sweet. Serena pulled away for a second then put her lips back onto his fully.

Darien responded fully to the kiss. As long as she was enjoying the kiss, he was happy. They kissed for what seemed like hours. Serena had dreamed of the kiss she would give to Darien. What could be more perfect then one under the sunset? Serena pulled away reluctantly to look at Darien. There was no response. Did he not like the kiss? Had she wasted these few months with him? Darien shook his head to come back to reality.

"Wow" was all he could respond with.

"I take it that you liked it" Serena said.

"I loved it. I'm glad you trust me enough to kiss me" Darien whispered, stroking her cheek.

"It wasn't a question of trust"

"I know. It's getting late, I better get you home before Mina sends out a search party," Darien responded helping Serena off the blanket.

"Believe it or not, she has actually done that to me once" Serena replied.

"I actually believe that. If I may ask, can I kiss you again?" Darien asked, wrapping his arms around Serena's waist.

"You don't have to ask me now. You can kiss me whenever you want" Serena whispered as Darien covered her lips with his. Serena did not get back to the apartment until the middle of the night. Mina was waiting up for her sister in her bedroom. She heard the door open but not close. Mina slowly crawled out of bed and slowly opened the door. Standing in the middle of the living room was Serena kissing Darien on the lips. Mina closed the door behind her giving her sister the privacy that she could now have.

The past week Darien hung around Serena's apartment when Mina was working. Darien had asked numerous times to see her paintings, but she never allowed anybody to see her unfinished portraits. The two were watching a movie when they caught up; in each other's embrace kissing. Serena loved kissing Darien and him holding her like she was precious treasure. Darien loved holding Serena. She was so comfortable with him; she made him feel as if he was protecting her when he held her.

The two were lost in their kissing when Darien accidentally brushed his hand against Serena's chest. He didn't mean to touch her like that, but she quickly pulled away from the kiss. Serena turned off the television and removed herself from the couch.

"Oh Serena, I'm really sorry I promise it was an accident" Darien explained.

"I know it was, it just startled me. I know we just started kissing and all..."

"Serena, I don't want you to think that since we are kissing now, that I think we ought to sleep with each other," Darien explained, trying to hug her.

"I know, it's just that I got nervous, not bad nervous though" Serena tried to explain. Darien understood what she was saying. Darien pulled Serena from his embrace and pulled a small rubber blue bracelet out of his pocket.

"I thought this was interesting. It was said that couples wear these rubber bracelet on their left wrists. Whenever one of them wanted to make love they would offer them a bracelet and they either accept it or reject it" Darien took Serena's left wrist and slid the bracelet around it.

"I like it"

"I don't want you to feel pressured around me Serena. You are very important to me I would never do anything to screw this relationship up," Darien whispered in her ear taking her into his embrace once again.

"I know Darien"

"So whenever you're ready, all you have to do is offer me the bracelet" Darien assured Serena.

"You come up with very interesting things"

"Only for the best" Darien chuckled kissing Serena up and down her neck. Serena sighed feeling the intensity of his kisses. Serena pulled Darien back onto the couch and covered his lips once again with kisses. An hour later, they were still kissing when Mina walked into the apartment, but not interrupting the kissing couple. Mina looked at her sister and her boyfriend with a disgust look.

"Isn't that why they invented the bedroom?" she asked jokingly, still not disturbing the couple from their kissing.

Another month had gone by, and Serena was growing more and more fond of Darien. She looked onto her calendar and realized that his birthday was in two days. What was she going to get him? He had done something astonishing for her birthday by taking her to the opera. What was it that she could do to make his birthday just as amazing? Darien had taken a day off from his classes to get a head start on the grading for the weekend.

Being a professor certainly had a load of work. He was hoping Serena would come by his apartment to visit. He enjoyed Serena's company. He couldn't help but feel a certain way for her. She was everything he ever wanted in a woman. He tried his best to make Serena comfortable around him and by the way she acts around him he was successful.

Darien had given Serena a key to his apartment. So, everyday he expected to see her come inside. Nobody but Serena had a key to his apartment. Darien continued to grade his papers. It was difficult to concentrate on the papers still thinking about Serena. He heard a few rumbles outside. A thunderstorm. He hoped Serena was driving in a storm. Not once did Darien ever drive in the rain.

After grading his last paper from the first pile, he heard the lock of his door crackle. Serena was here. His day was getting brighter even with the storm making the sky dark. Serena opened the door slowly; she felt a little uneasy walking into Darien's apartment without knocking. Darien smiled as he got up from his seat and walked to the door to greet Serena.

"I'm glad you came," he said allowing Serena to walk into his living room.

"I was debating on whether or not to come, I wasn't sure if you were busy or not" Serena responded giving Darien a peck on the lips.

"I'm glad you lost that debate. It's good because there's a storm coming. I don't want you driving with a storm outside."

"You're so protective of me aren't you?" Serena asked.

"Yes and that I do not think anybody should drive in the rain. It even says so in the driving book. It's unsafe" Darien responded.

"It's not as bad here as it was where I came from."

"It's going to get worse huh?" Darien asked. The look on Serena's face answered her question. Serena called Mina and explained to her that she was going to stay with Darien for the night or until the storm had completely passed. Darien had given Serena some of his clothes to put on. Her clothes were damp from the rain when she ran inside. While Serena was changing in his bathroom she came across the blue rubber bracelet that he had given her. She stared at the bracelet for a while.

She heard the sounds of thunder outside the bathroom window. The rain was falling onto the roof like leaves in a forest. Was she ready to offer Darien the bracelet? Stormy night, romantic guy, just the two of them together, she knew she was ready. Serena sighed as she placed Darien's blue sweater over her body and a pair of jogging pants. She found Darien sitting back in a chair after grading papers from his summer courses. He looked so tense. She walked slowly behind him and rubbed his shoulders gently. Darien savored the feeling of Serena's hands massaging his tense muscles.

"Feel better?" she whispered in his ear.

"As always" he whispered back with a kiss on her fingertips. Darien began rubbing his hands up and down Serena's arms. He hadn't realized that the bracelet was missing from her wrist. Serena slowly pulled her right hand up to Darien's face. Inside the hand was the bracelet; she was offering it to him. Darien's eyes widened a bit as he took the bracelet slowly then turned his gaze to Serena.

"Are you sure?" he asked, making sure that she wasn't playing a trick on him.

"I'm more than sure" she whispered her response as she threw her arms around his neck, kissing him gently on the lips. Darien responded to the kiss with the same intensity. Before they had gone further, Darien pulled away.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

"I'm sorry Serena, I want to, it's just that..."

"Just what?" Serena urged Darien to continue.

"Ever since I gave you that bracelet, I've kind of planned on how we would make love for the first time. I had it planned out to where I wanted it to be memorable for the both of us" Darien explained to Serena. Serena just smiled at Darien.

"If you would, give me an hour. Take a hot bath and put some bubble bath in the water and when you come out, everything will be perfect" Darien promised, holding Serena's hands.

"Ok" Serena responded.

"There is something in the bathroom, if you haven't seen it yet, it's something I want you to wear. It's nothing dirty or anything. Mina took me to Victoria Secret one day, and I will never go in that store again, and I thought it would be perfect for you. You don't have to wear it though, it was just a simple request" Darien said to Serena. Serena smiled and placed a small kiss on Darien's sweet lips. She walked to the bathroom and closed the door behind her. There hanging on the back was a silky pink nightgown. She would have to remember to kick Mina and thank her at the same time. Serena turned to the tub and filled it with water and bubble bath.

Darien scrambled to find the perfect candles to make the occasion more romantic. He placed vanilla scented candles around his nightstand and his dresser. He put on a pair of his night pants with no shirt. He dimmed the lights in his bedroom to give the candle flames a chance to shine. He fixed up the bed and found the CD with Serena's favorite singer. He placed the CD into the CD player and didn't realize that his time was up when he saw Serena leaning in the doorway. She was radiant. Always knew how to get his attention by just standing a few feet from him. How he loved her. The two were lost in one another's eyes not realizing that the lyrics to the song were singing.

------>The whispers in the morning
------>Of lovers sleeping tight
------>Are rolling by like thunder now
------>As I look in your eyes

Darien held out his hand. Serena looked at his hand and gracefully put hers into his. Her skin was as soft as the nightgown she was wearing. He placed his free arm around her slender waist while she placed her free arm around his neck. The two swayed to the music. Serena felt herself get lost in Celine's music. She could almost hear Darien's heart beat. He was nervous. Darien could feel Serena's heart beating like drum. They were both nervous, but they both knew what they wanted.

------>I hold on to your body
------>And feel each move you make
------>Your voice is warm and tender
------>A love that I could not forsake

------>'Cause I am your lady
------>And you are my man
------>Whenever you reach for me
------>I'll do all that I can

Oh how Serena was so blissful with Darien. Her heart has never been so full. Darien knew how to make her happy and knew what to do when she was sad. Was she falling in love with this man? This man that had found a way to find trust enough to allow him to be intimate with her? She was so content that she had to smile to herself. She leaned her head on his hard muscle shoulder. His fragrance was so soothing. She loved his fragrance. She began rubbing her free hand up and down his hard back. She hadn't realized how well built he was. Of course, she wasn't complaining.

Darien could feel Serena's happiness fill the room. Knowing that he was the one to make her happy made him happy. How could this wonderful woman live such a horrible past? The past was gone; they had the future together. Darien enjoyed being in Serena's presence and in her arms. He was falling for her, deeper and deeper. He loved the soft touch of her hair, the silky feeling of her skin, the sensational taste of her lips; he loved her body and soul.

------>Even though there may be times
------>It seems I'm far away
------>Never wonder where I am
------>'Cause I am always by your side

------>'Cause I am your lady
------>And you are my man
------>Whenever you reach for me
------>I'll do all that I can

Darien took his hand from Serena's hand and began caressing her cheek. He inched slowly to her face and brushed his lips against hers. Serena snaked her arms around Darien's neck as he pulled her closer to his body. The fragrance candles were filling the bedroom with vanilla sense. Darien brushed his hands up and down Serena's back, tangling his fingers with her honeyed hair. Serena laced her fingers through his raven hair. Serena started walking backwards to the bed, allowing Darien to lead her to the right direction.

Darien removed his lips from hers and traveled down her cheeks to her neck. Darien pushed Serena gently to the bed allowing her to lie on her back before continuing. Serena lay on her back as Darien positioned himself on top of her, kissing down her neck once again. Darien began exploring Serena's upper body, hoping that she wouldn't stop him, she didn't. Serena savored the feeling of his grip on her chest. She began to blow slowly into his ear, which was his sensitive area. Darien found one strap from Serena's gown and pulled it slowly down her shoulder. This time, Darien could hear Serena's heart beating faster and faster.

------>We're heading for something
------>Somewhere I've never been
------>Sometimes I am frightened
------>But I'm ready to learn
------>Of the power of love

------>The sound of your heart beating
------>Made it clear
------>Suddenly the feeling that I can't go on
------>Is light years away

Darien brought his head to Serena's. He kissed her lips like he was eating chocolate. Serena started touching Darien's ear causing him to inhale sharply. Serena knew that he enjoyed the touch. Darien pulled away slowly to look into her baby blue eyes.

"Are you enjoying yourself?"

"I always am" Serena whispered.

"Is there anything I should know?" Darien whispered kissing her cheek. Serena knew what he was talking about. She thought before answering.

"Don't pin my arms" was her request.

"I promise" he responded as he kissed Serena's lips as the music carried the two into bliss for the rest of the night. The candles fragrance filled the room until they had melted into small puddles of vanilla.

A night of passion was what Darien was referring to with Serena. They had made love, and it was beyond words. There was still a storm outside when the morning arrived. Darien was sleeping, holding Serena like a teddy bear. Serena was the first to wake before Darien. She woke up wrapped in Darien's arms. His bed was comfortable as well as Darien. Serena turned around in Darien's arms slowly, trying not to wake him. Darien's eyes fluttered open, tightening his hold with Serena.

"Good morning beautiful, how was your night?" Darien tried to sing, but Serena couldn't help but laugh, he could not sing well.

"My night was magical" she responded. Darien pulled Serena closer to him covering both of them with his bedspread.

"So, you're all right? I didn't hurt you did I?" he asked, rubbing her back slowly.

"I'm more than all right. It was a perfect night" Serena responded, leaning her head against Darien's chest. Darien had wanted to say something to Serena since last night.

"Serena..." he paused.

"What is it Darien?" Serena asked. Darien pulled Serena's head to face his.

"I love you," he whispered. Serena looked at Darien. She pondered this feeling last night. She continued to look at him and she knew what she felt.

"Oh Darien, I love you too."

It was impossible keeping the secret from Mina. Ever since she spent the entire weekend with Darien, Mina kept asking question by question. After Serena had given Mina a story, Mina was more than thrilled for her sister. The past few months were getting better and better for Serena and Darien. Nearly every weekend Serena was at Darien's apartment enjoying one another. Thanksgiving came and went. Darien spent Thanksgiving with Serena and Mina. Of course, he did most of the cooking, which he didn't mind.

Christmas came. Serena and Mina were trying to put up their aluminum tree. Serena sprayed the windows to make it seemed like it was snowing. Even though Serena never really liked snow, she felt it would be more Christmas with snow. Mina twirled the tree with the lights reaching to the very top. Serena had given Darien a key to the apartment so she heard the lock crinkle.

"Gee, Darien it's been so long. When was the last time we saw you, a few hours ago?" Mina asked sarcastically.

"Oh Gee Mina, did you miss me that much? I could move in you know" Darien responded. Mina looked at him like he was making at threat. Mina and Darien had a love hate relationship like he had with his sisters back home.

"The real reason I came here is...how would you girls like to come spend Christmas with me and my family?" Darien asked, walking over to Serena. Serena looked at him.

"You mean like, meet your mom and dad?"

"Yeah and my three sisters and twin brother" Mina looked at Darien.

"You have a twin brother?"

"Yea, but I'm the better looking one" Darien responded. Mina smiled evilly.

"I shall be the judge of that. Where do your parents live?" Mina asked.

"Well, that's the other thing. Do you girls mind spending Christmas in a warm place?" Darien asked, getting ready to cover his ears.

"Why?"

"Because my family lives in...Hawaii." Serena and Mina looked at each other. Hawaii? Serena had always wanted to go to Hawaii, now she had the opportunity. The girls screamed with delight and hugged Darien tightly.

Darien and the girls got onto the next plane to Hawaii. Serena felt herself become nervous. She was going to meet Darien's family. They had dated for so long, had Darien told them anything about her? Mina was everything but nervous. After the plane landed, Darien helped Serena with her suitcases to a rented car. Serena sat in the front while Mina took pictures through the back seat of the car. Darien glanced over to Serena, noticing her hands were slightly shaking. He took her hand gently and kissed the top of it.

"Don't be nervous, my parents will love you. I know my three sisters will love you I write them all the time about you" Darien assured her. Even though him assuring helped a little, it didn't help enough. Darien drove up to a small, but livable house. The grass was as green as it could be and the ocean was bluer than the sky. Serena and Mina saw three girls waiting outside with another guy. One girl with blue hair, brown hair and raven hair like Darien's. The girl with the brown hair ran up to the driver's side of the car.

"It's about damn time you came here Darien" the girl called as Darien got out of the car and hugged one of his sisters.

"It's good to see you too Lita"

"Now, which one of you is the one and only Serena that has some how caught my brothers attention?" Lita asked Mina and Serena getting out of the car. Serena waved to Lita in response. Lita ran over to Serena and hugged her tightly.

"We are going to be great friends, and you must be Mina" she asked.

"That would be me, so anything that your brother says is completely false" Mina claimed. The three girls giggled as Lita introduced the rest of the sisters and brother. The girl with the blue hair was Ami, the raven-haired was Rei, and the brother was Andrew. Mina had her eye on Andrew, but sadly he was taken, but it didn't stop Mina from flirting.

"Ok, now that you've met the siblings, now you have to meet the parents" Darien took Serena's hand and led her and Mina inside the house. The place reminded her of an antique shop. His mother must be into old antiques. The windows showed a glorious view of the water. Paintings were everywhere and of course Serena saw a few of her own paintings.

"Oh Darien, it's about time you came to visit. Now, where is this Serena you kept telling us about?" Serena heard what sounded like his mothers voice. Serena stood next to Mina while Darien and his mother came to the living room. Darien held out his hand to Serena.

"Mom, this is Serena Miller and her sister Mina Miller, ladies this is Helen Shields my mother" Darien introduced.

"Oh, it is so wonderful meeting you at last. And to think you are the painter of the ones I own. I absolutely love your work" Helen gave Serena and Mina tight group hug. Serena was defiantly assured about the family.

There weren't enough rooms for everybody in the house. Darien had offered that he and Serena would take a near by hotel. Mina would stay at the house with the girls. Helen and her husband Lionel didn't like the idea, but it was their son's life and Serena didn't mind. Serena spent most of her time with her sister and Darien's sisters. Darien spent his time with his brother and trying to figure out what his sisters were telling his girlfriend. Every time he came anywhere near them, they would stop talking and when he left they would laugh.

Mina pulled away from the group to go to the rest room when she saw Darien take out something from his pocket. Mina spotted a velvet box. He then opened it to find a ring inside. She couldn't help but barge in.

"Darien Shields is that a ring?" Mina asked. Darien closed the box quickly and shut the door behind Mina quickly.

"Yes it's a ring and keep your voice down" Darien whispered.

"You're going to ask Serena to marry you?" Mina asked excitedly.

"Yes I am. I'm going to do it tonight when Serena and I go back to the hotel. I want to do it before Christmas morning. Don't call the hotel and ask how it went or anything," Darien commanded.

"I promise I won't say a thing. I'm finally getting a brother; this is so cool. You're doing it tonight?" Mina asked.

"Yes I am. Now, I want you to pretend we never had this conversation. Don't tell any of my sisters or Andrew because they all have big mouths. So not a word" Darien ordered. Mina swore that she wouldn't say a word to anybody, this was too big to not share, but she was going to try.

"Well, it's getting late, we should get going Serena" Darien said. Serena got up from her position on the couch and started to follow Darien out the door.

"It's really silly for you two to go to a hotel. Why don't we make a little bed in the living room? That you boys can have your own sleepovers and the girls can be together," Helen offered. Darien gave his mother a questioning look.

"Yeah Darien, you can't hog Serena forever" Rei chimed into the conversation.

"Um...maybe these two just want to be alone. Besides, Darien already paid for the hotel, no need to waist money" Mina said trying to think of a clever excuse.

"Really guys, it's all right I don't mind. I'll see you all tomorrow for Christmas" Serena waved and followed Darien whom gave a sigh of relief.

Darien and Serena arrived to their hotel. Serena enjoyed the Hawaiian view of the water. She loved Hawaii. Going on the tours with Darien's family, eating at the restaurants, she was enjoying her visit. During the night Darien and Serena spent the night ordering room service, watching television and making love. Darien kissed Serena one last time on the lips before allowing her to turn over on her side. He held her closely, knowing that the time was coming. He was nervous. Would she say no? She wouldn't say no, would she? Serena felt Darien's arms shake slightly.

"Are you all right?" she asked turning over to face him.

"I'm fine, I'm just a little nervous that's all" Darien sat up with Serena following him.

"What are you nervous about?" she asked. Darien sighed as he reached for his pants. Inside the pocket was the ring. He clenched onto the box before turning to Serena.

"I want to give my present to you early" he replied.

"I don't have yours with me though"

"The only gift you could really give me Serena, is the word yes" Serena looked at him confused. He took Serena's hand and placed the box onto her palm. He didn't remove his hand from the box.

"Serena, these past months, almost a year have, been wonderful. Being with you was like being in a dream, only you were real and that's what made it more special. You are everything I have ever wanted in a woman and more. So... what I'm trying to say is..." Darien paused as he opened the box in Serena's palm. Inside, there was a silver ring with a crescent moon diamond shape around a silver rose. Serena gasped. She wasn't expecting this for Christmas.

"Will you marry me Serena?" he whispered to her. Serena stared at the ring then looked up at Darien. Serena was beyond shocked. She couldn't speak. The awkward silence got the best of Darien. He pulled his hands away from Serena and was about to leave the bed. Serena quickly grabbed his wrist before he could go anywhere.

"I'm sorry, I was shocked. Darien, you're very special to me too. I guess this was the last thing I expected in my life. Now that it happened, I guess I was thinking I was going to wake up soon and you wouldn't be there anymore. My answer is...yes, oh Darien yes more than yes!" Serena jumped into Darien's arms and pulled him back onto the bed. The rest of the night, well lets say it was complete bliss.

The next morning was Christmas. Serena wore her engagement ring as Darien drove back to his parents home. They were expecting them. Darien pulled up to the driveway, where Mina was waiting for them. Serena sighed as her and Darien exited the car holding hands. Mina caught a glimpse of the ring on Serena's finger. Her smile widened when she walked up to her sister.

"Does this mean I'm getting a brother?" Mina asked excitedly.

"Yes it does" Darien answered. Mina couldn't help but squeal as she hugged her sister tightly.

"Oh Serena, this is such a great moment. I knew that you would find someone that would take away your fears" Mina said to Serena. Serena smiled as she looked up to Darien. Mina was right; she found the one that chased away her fears.

The entire Christmas morning was one celebration after the other. Serena and Mina were welcomed into Darien's family. For once, they felt loved by parents, even if they weren't their own. Mina, Darien, and Serena headed back to the states a few days after Christmas. Darien and Serena discussed that Serena would move in with Darien. Serena didn't want to put Mina on the streets looking for another apartment.

Darien was helping Serena to pack her belongings after his last class from his students coming back from vacation. Mina was helping as well, but she was dreading the fact she would be alone in the apartment. Mina came into Serena's bedroom to see the boxes packed and the suitcases open with clothes. Serena looked at her sister.

"Oh Mina, I'm just a few streets away" Serena tried to cheer her sister up.

"It won't be the same. I don't think I can make rent by myself" Mina responded. Darien walked into the bedroom looking for Mina.

"Mina, I know someone who is looking for an apartment. Would you like to see her?" Darien asked.

"Huh?" Lita walked past Darien and into Serena's bedroom.

"Yeah girl, need a place, got one?" Lita asked.

"Yeah girl!! We are going to have a great time being roomies. We better get to shopping for your new room" Mina hurried out the door with Lita without saying a word to Serena. Serena just giggled as she continued packing her things.

"I guess that cheered her up quickly," Darien said, wrapping his arms around his future wife.

"I guess so. I need to get some more tape. You do some packing I'll go get some in the kitchen" Serena wiggled herself from his embrace.

"Hurry back" Serena smiled as she walked into the living room and through the kitchen. She found the tape, along with a letter with her name on the envelope. Thinking it was another fan letter; she took the envelope and read the letter inside:

Dear Serena,

I realize that my letter to you is probably the most inappropriate thing on Earth to you. Don't worry, I'm not free, I won't be for a long time. I'm writing this letter as an apology to you. I honestly don't know what had gotten into me that night.

I've known you for so long and not have said a word to you. You were so beautiful and so innocent. Something inside told me that I had to have you or I would go insane. That night was the worst way I could have done so. I raped you. Yes, I admit that what I did was inexplicable. Please don't throw away this letter before reading all of it.

Serena fell to the couch. How could he have known where she lived? He was apologizing for what he did and admitting to raping her. Serena sighed as she read on through.

I have talked to these guys in my cell. They claimed that these girls they 'were intimate' with were calling them rapists. The guard said that I was only one man enough to admit that I had raped a girl. I don't deserve to live. I honestly don't know how I could honestly have done that to you, especially when you didn't know who I was.

I write this to you, please don't live in fear of me. I won't come after you if I ever get released. I hope you find love or have the courage to find the one love that will give you the respect you deserve. This letter is really short, but I believe you understand what I'm saying. I won't write to you like this, this will be the only letter. I thought that if I could write you a letter at least apologizing for my actions, then maybe I would have done something right.

Live and love,

PD.

Serena folded the letter and placed it back inside the envelope. Something inside made her feel almost sorry for this guy. She didn't feel sorry enough. Although, the letter was worth keeping; she folded the envelope and stuffed it in her pocket when she heard Darien walk into the living room.

"I was getting worried, what's that?" Darien pointed to the envelope.

"Another letter from a fan" Serena responded. Darien smiled as he kissed Serena's lips and pulled her off the couch. They walked back into Serena's room and continued packing.

A year later, Serena and Darien were married. Mina and Lita were enjoying being roommates. It was the night of Serena's next line up of paintings. Mina and Lita were there standing next to the married couple. Serena felt nervous about her paintings being shown.

"Serena Silver, who is this dashing man with you tonight?" a reporter lady asked.

"This is my husband, Darien" Serena responded.

"Well, Darien, have you had a chance to see your wife's paintings?" the lady asked Darien.

"No I haven't." The reporter made her way around the rest of the crowd. Serena nudged onto Darien.

"Actually, you have seen them before" Serena responded. The rope was pulled to reveal Serena's paintings. She was right; he had seen these paintings before. They were the paintings of the first year Serena was raped. The lady crying by the puddle of blood seemed to attract more attention. Serena had caught a few girls shedding a few tears.

"Oh Serena, you decided to put these up?" Mina asked.

"I guess it's time that I shouldn't hide these from the world" Serena responded.

"Serena Silver, how on Earth did you come up with such a touching piece?" the reporter asked.

"Let's just say, I know what it's like to be afraid," the reporter continued to ask questions to Darien, Serena, Mina and Lita. Darien held onto his wife tightly. Before anybody asked Serena any other questions, he whispered softly in her ear.

"I love you."

THE END

WOW! That was long. Well, what do you think? And no, I have not been through this kind of thing. E-mail me any comments, but please do not cuss at me if you don't like it. Enjoy, Aisuru-cha.