Total Eclipse of the Heart

Summary: Serena is a primary school teacher and has a watchful eye over a very special student. However Darien is his father, a very rich, successful and married man - Who also happens to be in a very unhappy marriage.

Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon, or any rights associated.

A/N: I cannot believe how this year has flown by already, nor how busy I have been. But I have managed to find some time here and there to jot down some notes to keep this story going.

Thank you to everyone who has stayed with me thus far! And everyone else who is new! Your reviews have definitely motivated me not to give up! I am determined to finish this story no matter what!

Chapter 11: Setting things straight

The next day Andrew woke to his phone buzzing, as the annoying tune got louder and louder. Looking at the clock it read 7am. Way to early for anything to be awake on a Sunday. Little lone after last night's events and shenanigans! Darien had encouraged his friend to another drinking session after Serena had managed to run away again. Of course it turned into a much longer night as Darien fought with his memories of the girl. Andrew couldn't help but down a whole bottle of alcohol to help comfort his friend in pain.

However his phone kept buzzing over and over, and that damn jingle was driving his headache mad. Didn't the person calling believe in leaving a message, or sending a damn message? Groaning he pulled himself up and grabbed his phone off the nightstand. Unknown number.

Clearing his throat, he pressed the green button; "Hello?" his businessman voice was on. He didn't know what to expect. Who calls so early on a Sunday? As far as he was aware Darien was safely tucked into his own bed. His own parents never ventured out to get into any trouble… He didn't have any other siblings… not even a girlfriend! What could have possible been the reason for a call this early! The sky wasn't on fire from his window.

"Yes, is this Andrew Furuhata?" came a feminine voice over the other end. She sounded mature, but her tone was melodic and firm.

"Speaking," he furrowed his browns, "is there some sort of emergency?"

He heard the woman laugh, "I supposed, it is a bit early for you young kids," she paused to laugh again, "I keep forgetting, my apologies. It's Irene Tsukino."

Andrew flung his legs over the side of his bed and sat straight up. He was suddenly fully awake and cured of his hangover, "Mrs Tsukino," he almost squeaked, "what do I owe this pleasure?"

"Irene is fine young man," she offered, "I called in regards to our little conversation last night. I got a hold of your PR manager last night and we agreed to make a meeting today at our home to discuss how we shall approach Friday's tabloids. What time would you be able to attend today?" she didn't ask, it was implied. Her tone held authority, clearly expecting him to adjust his schedule for her.

Andrew was quiet for some time while he sat in thought. How did he even approach this situation? How on earth did she manage to find out who their PR person was, AND contact him in one night? After awhile Irene's voice came through the phone again, "What's your location? I will send a town car to you at 9am? Will that be suitable?"

Andrew struggled to process, but managed to grunt a yes to her, along with the address of the hotel Darien owned, which was where they were currently staying.

"Excellent, I look forward to meeting you again Mr Furuhata. And please, just bring yourself. Mr Shields is not needed to be present," she said before ending the phone call.

Andrew just sat on the edge of this bed staring at his phone. 'Did that just happen?' he asked himself. He was quiet surprised how quick she worked. Not to mention how she found contact information on their PR team. She literally was a woman that was a force to be reckoned with. There were rumours that said Mrs Tsukino was the cut through lion in the business that whispered in Mr Tsukino's ear. But after meeting both of them now, they were both equally as scary.

Looking around the room he was amazed how one phone call woke him straight up. And like normal routine, he wondered into the kitchen for his morning coffee.

"You're up early?" came Darien's voice as he rounded the corner.

Andrew gave a chuckle, "Back at ya. Considering how much we've drunk in the past 48 hours," Andrew did have to laugh at that. It had been awhile since they had a good night of drinking. And their bodies weren't as young as they used to be. But amazing what a phone call from a scary woman could do!

"Can't sleep, you?" Darien offered as he watched the blonde man grab a cup and poor himself coffee from the dispenser.

"Phone call from Mrs Tsukino," Andrew said flatly as he took the first sip of the coffee. Euphoria was clearly written on his face. Darien just raised a brow, "You're PR problem. She suggested last night we work together to deal with the tabloid since it concerns their daughter, aka family. So I assume this is her controlling 'image'?" he stated matter of fact.

At first Darien had a raised brow, but lack of sleep made it hard for him to even try to process what Andrew had said. So simply nodded his head, "When will this be?"

"Not for you to worry about!" Andrew gave a brilliant smile. How could he tell his best friend nicely that the Tsukino's didn't want him present at the moment? "I think she's already contact Mr Davies. So you won't need to worry. We'll stick with old school friends story, so don't worry," he gave a reassuring smile. He tried to keep it casual like it was of little concern, and fully taken care of. And gosh he hoped there would be no issues!

Darien nodded slowly, "Okay, that sounds fine," he sipped on his coffee. Andrew already knew what was on this friends mind. It was her. He kept talking about her all last night, and it only got worst, as he got drunker. However this morning Andrew was sure he realised the current circumstances and issues.

Darien sighed and looked at his friend. His eyes were pleading. "What's wrong my friend?" Andrew finally asked.

"I have to go home to get DJ… and talk to Raye," he said simply. To be honest, Andrew was surprised his friend said that rather calmly. 'If I were in his shoes, I'd be hells scared of Raye,' Andrew thought. She was another scary woman when she was mad.

He was unsure how to say it, "Sorry Dare, but I think this is long overdue," he said cautiously watching his friend's reaction. "Raye isn't good for you. It's a toxic marriage. And I think deep down you already know I'm right," he put a hand on his friends arm. They were practically brothers, and it angered him to see Darien's loyalty betrayed this like. Darien had always been guarded, but when he was at the arcade he really came out of his shell, because of one blonde. But Raye was the completely opposite. The longer he was with Raye, the more he didn't feel like his best friend and brother anymore.

"I know," Darien whispered as his feat hung in defeat. "I just imaged something different."

"I know. But we don't always get what we want." Andrew looked at the clock, "But no point delaying the inevitable! I've got to get ready. And I think perhaps you should try and nap before heading home… you look like shit."

"Thanks Andrew!" Darien laughed as he watched his friend flutter out of the kitchen. Maybe it was something about blondes? They had an innate ability to make him feel better, even in his darkest, and shittiest moments.

The longer Andrew sat in the car, the more nervous he grew. These people were powerful, and once he noticed they were heading a bit out of town his stomach lurched in fear. It was irrational of course, but it still felt like he walking into the lion dens nonetheless.

He was seating with his eyes closed to try and calm himself down, but when he felt the car slow down his eyes fluttered open in rapid response. A mixture of anticipation and nervousness washed over him. This was it. But he couldn't help but take in the beautiful mansion that was coming into view. He never would have had the faintest clue that the Serena he once knew grew up in this kind of lifestyle. He couldn't help think back to those carefree days in the arcade, and that fateful last day he saw her, with Raye's words coming back, saying they knew nothing about Serena.

"We're here sir," the driver said he parked the vehicle at the front of the house. Coming out of his thoughts he noticed someone was opening his door.

"Good morning Mr Furuhata," the gentleman bowed, like actually bowed! Andrew was taken back in surprise, "Madam has requested I take you to her once you arrive, if you will," the man said again as he used his arm to beckon Andrew out of the car. 'Just how rich are these people to have actual butlers!' he thought to himself as he complied to the mans request.

Feeling out of sorts, Andrew just followed in silence. This was way out of his realm. Usually he was the one arranging meetings and this and that, always in control. But right now, well he didn't know how he felt exactly. He was aware that his breathing was heightened and his hands were sweating. But at the same time he couldn't help but take in the beautiful home he was walking through. It was clear this was a home, not a manner. It screamed family, not 'rich snob'. Which did help settle him a bit more, but also made him wonder about Serena more. Why she hid this part of herself to people. Especially now, going by another name, living as a teacher…

His thoughts were once again disturbed by the man he was following, "madam, Mr Furuhata has arrived, will you be needing anything else?"

"Oh!" Irene gasped as she dropped the magazine she was reading on the bench before her, "Welcome!" she ushered Andrew in, "And Earl," she looked at the man, "How many times have I said it? You take this way too serious. We can manage on our own. Thank you though," she laughed she focused back on Andrew. "My husband thinks I can't fend for myself anymore," she replied to Andrew's questioning face.

"Oh, no, I apologise," he quickly said, not wanting to cause confusion or misunderstand anything. It was bazaar how relaxed she was, even when people were at her beck and call.

"It's alright, it was the same look on Serena's face when she first met Earl. He's so stiff and takes his work too serious! Eeesh, even makes me feel uncomfortable sometimes," she laughed, "now sit my boy!" she looked at the couch in front of her.

"Is Mr Davies not here yet?" he questioned as he took a seat opposite her.

"I actually wanted to speak with you first, before he arrived," she smiled sweetly leaning in towards him. He could guess right now where Serena got that little talent of hers, thinking back all those years ago in the arcade at her behaviour.

Andrew nodded slowly as he recalled the previous nights conversation to mind. She was rather interested in knowing more about the pair, Darien and Serena that was. "I assume about your daughter and Darien?"

Irene just smiled, "I knew I liked you. You made some interesting comments the other night, and it had me thinking about how my daughter was. There was an incident in primary school, so during her high school years she becomes very closed, even to us. And I had hoped sending her overseas for college would help her break from that, however she still wished to be separated from her true family identity. I know it break's Ken's heart…" she paused as she watched Andrew, "You sounded like you knew her pretty well?" she raised a brow in question, hoping he would elaborate in detail about what he knew.

Feelings of astonishment and wonder washed over him. Sounded like Serena was an enigma to everyone. "Not that well Mrs Tsukino, but we did spend a lot of afternoons around each other," he laughed at the memories of the silly schoolgirl.

"Irene, please," she smiled up at him, "I assume the arcade? It was all Serena would talk about for months on end. What was she like?"

Andrew furrowed his brows in response to her question. This was her own daughter, how could she not know? "I'm afraid I don't quiet understand. Did she not live with you growing up?"

Irene sighed in defeat as her gaze looked out to the window to the landscape before it. "We had sent her to a very prestigious school during her primary years. Along side many other 'elite' families. However we raised Serena a bit differently, and that caused her to be bullied for a while. It wasn't until she made a fuss about attending school that we looked into it. Once other families were aware of what was happening… or should I say, 'who's' child was being bullied, that those parents forced their children to play nice with Serena," she paused to look at Andrew, "They taught their children about the benefits of friendship. Putting the importance on valuable alliances within their social class," she almost laughed. "It was our own fault for not seeing it earlier. Plus raising Serena to be free spirited. Although Ken raised her to keep in mind that she would be our successor, we were relaxed with her. Especially when her brother Sammy came along…" she sighed. "In any case, her first friendships were forced for all the wrong reasons. Especially when they would tell her to her face that they were only friends because of her family's wealth. I had assumed that was why Serena wanted to attend a public school for high school. Which we allowed. However she was very private. We sent her to a psychologist and everything. But that was just how everything turned our little Bunny into the social recluse she is today."

Andrew's eyes were wide in surprise. It made so much sense now. However he thought those girls' friendships were unbreakable with the way they acted, almost like sisters. "I never stopped to wonder why Serena was so private," he admitted, "but now it makes so much sense… it's quiet sad how she was affected so young."

"Indeed," Irene nodded her head. "It was a beautiful day when Serena finally gushed about the arcade, and hanging with a few people. She never elaborated whom. But I could tell she was finally spending time with people and actually enjoying her teenage life," she smiled, "that was enough for us. To know she was happy. But when she asked about travelling we knew something wasn't right. Running away had always been Serena's way of escaping issues. But Kenji made a deal with her, and she complied. Sadly we do not really know out daughter too well. Not by lack of trying, or offering support," she added quickly. "But she had always kept her life private and secret. Probably why she still refuses to change her name back and become part of the family, taking her rightful spot within the company," she sighed, looking away from Andrew.

"I wasn't even aware she had a brother," Andrew replied softly. But then he realised what she had just said, "Serena is Kenji's successor?" he asked with raised browns in shock.

"Well, I know Kenji had been very hopeful. And Sammy is a lawyer in America… so it might just go straight to the board members as this stage," she laughed. It was a bridge they were going to deal with when an opportunity arose to talk to Serena about it at this stage.

Andrew just looked at her with shock. But he turned away as he let it all sink in. He knew there was a lot more to the story about Serena, but at least he could understand her a little bit better now. "Well, we all felt like Serena was hiding something during those years. It appears she was just as secretive with us, as she was you. But she was a very bubbly, happy and energetic person when she was around the girls. You could hear when they were all in the arcade, between her and her friend Mina, their voices echoed around. Three of the girls went to the same school, the fourth, she went to a private school down the road, but somehow they had managed to get her to join their group. They were always together."

Irene just smiled at Andrew. It was a smile that reached her eyes as she heard her daughter was indeed happy during those years. "Four girl? I'm so glad she had managed to make friends. But how does Darien fit in there?"

"As you're aware, my family own the arcade. I worked a part-time job there during my college years. Darien grew up with me, like a brother, both raised by my parents. So he would always swing by to spend time and study there," he laughed, "I remember clear as day the first day those two met each other. She had mistakenly thrown her failed test paper at him, and since than, he would always tease her for being silly. That was their relationship actually. They just used to always tease and taunt each other."

Irene had furrowed brows upset. "Someone was teasing and taunting my baby girl?" she said slowly. "But… Serena never let on."

"Please don't mistake it," Andrew started before she got any crazy thoughts in her head, "I actually think they both enjoyed riling each other up. I actually suspected perhaps they liked each other. However as the years went by it was getting harder to tell. But for some reason when Serena was in a shitty mood, having a fight with Darien used to make her feel better. It was… odd, to say the least. I tried to confront Darien about it. But he never admitted it until during her final year. He wanted to wait until she was finished, and I agreed. She didn't need the distraction of a boyfriend. But than an incident happened the day before she left, and no one ever heard from her again." He finished with a look of sorrow on his features. Serena was someone who left a hole when she disappeared. And he felt it more when he noticed how her departure had affected Darien.

Irene had sat back in her chair in deep thought. Taking everything Andrew was saying in, processing it all. She knew there was something missing. She knew the moment Serena returned home just a few hours later that morning she left – the day before she was meant to travel overseas. She had fought with them in regards to changing her number and email, but now it made so much sense. There was someone she wanted to stay in contact with. But she knew something must have happened when Serena finally landed in America. She focused too much on her studies and refused to talk to her parents about her old friends keeping in contact from Japan. They had paid for her to see a psychologist over there. But they never knew the extent of the reason. So many things made sense. Her daughter was also in love with this man… and now the current predicament… no wonder her daughter was feeling a bit lost these days. Not to mention her reaction and behaviour of last night. But her heart also pained for Serena, how could she not tell her parents the real reason why she wanted to keep her old contact details? Would things have been different?

"Why did your friend move on, instead of trying to fix his relationship with Serena?" Irene quickly asked. If it was clear they both liked each other, than why did neither of them make any attempts?

"Where to start? Perhaps she was too young to realise what she was really feeling for Darien? And it took Darien a few years to realise… not to mention Darien wasn't the type to date a young girl like that. But in any case, when Serena left, all the contact information we had for her was no longer working. And no one heard anything from her. It's not that we didn't try… it's just we didn't know how. And no one had any clue where about abroad she was. And now we know she changed her last name, it makes sense why searching her online was impossible."

"What a mess," Irene breathed out. "My poor child," she hummed while in thought. Suddenly her eyes turned to Andrew, he felt a chill with those prying eyes of her, "Are the rumours true?"

"Which ones are those?" he asked questioning.

"That Darien's marriage isn't as 'happy' as the media portrays?"

"Well," Andrew paused to think. It really wasn't his story to tell. But they had already shared some personal things already. "I think many people make mistakes when they are broken hearted," he answered cautiously. "Raye happened to be there when he was suffering, and I guess people find love in all the wrong places?"

Irene thought for a moment as she nodded in understanding. Indeed some people did find love in all the wrong places. But it still didn't explain much about the man in question. "Is he still in love with Serena?" she asked quietly.

"Honestly, I don't think he ever stopped?" he responded honestly. There was a moment he seemed like he was happy with Raye, but that was short lived. "When we finally went into business together, and we happened to spend more time around each other, I noticed an odd behaviour of his." He paused for a moment to try and sort his thoughts, "It was very subtle, but every blonde drew his attention, especially those with blue eyes. After a year he gave up. But that was when he decided to really give Raye a chance, and he changed altogether. He wasn't the same person I grew up with."

Irene's face showed sadness and empathy for the poor man. "Thank you for being honest Andrew," she said directly staring into his eyes. "If only I knew Serena wanted to maintain a link here when she left. Things possibly could have been different."

"Well, I don't know. Darien ended up marrying Raye, who happened to be one of Serena's old friends. It wasn't until later I discovered, after talking to the other girls, that it was Raye who had made up a lot of lies to drive Serena and Darien to hate each other more. I think Raye must have felt threatened by Serena in her quest for Darien. Sooner or later the distance would have helped Raye win, either way."

"Either way that was the past. And it's a potential risk for both of our companies now. Darien needs to sort out his personal affairs before we can officially go into business together. It will be intense with us. And I also think distance from Serena would be good. At least knowing they had previously known each other makes it easier to concoct a good story of old school friends catching up for the media statement for Darien. Especially if in the future Serena's identity comes to light."

"I couldn't agree more," Andrew responded. She did sound a bit harsh about it all, but then again, she was a businesswoman for the past 15 years, not a mother.

"Excellent!" she beamed with a smile, "now, while we wait for Mr Davies to arrive to write up the official story, why don't you tell me more stories about Serena during high school?"

Darien was surprised when he got home. Luckily the older couple next door didn't say anything when he picked DJ up. But Raye was still yet to come home. It appeared she didn't even come back home once. Everything was exactly the way he had left it.

Once he got his son sorted and settled, he whipped his phone out and turned it on. Dialling the familiar number of his wife.

A few rings in and she answered, "Finally!" she sounded angry. "What took you so long to return my phone call? You know how bad this looks for you right?"

He released a sigh that she could hear, "Seriously Raye, you have no idea how tense it has been, and you knew how important this weekend was for me and the company."

"Don't make me laugh. It was only intense because you were trying to hide an affair." She was sounding like a bratty child with her antics, and Darien's cord was getting shorter.

"Look Raye," he sighed in frustration, "That was DJ's teacher. I ran into her and she wanted to talk about DJ."

He could feel her anger from the other side of the phone, "You promised me you wouldn't waste your time with his teacher!"

"And you promised me many things too Raye!" he spat out quickly in anger. He wasn't sure why he felt anger about Raye mentioning he wasn't allowed to see Serena. But it certainly made her go quite on the phone.

"Listen Darien," she started, "I'll be home tomorrow. How about we have a proper sit down than, and talk?" she suggested in a sweet voice.

She was always sweet when he got angry and close to mentioning what he thought about her. It was like she was afraid of him suggesting she was having an affair. But he didn't care at that moment. It was a headache. And his main concern was on Serena. She was back in his life, and she ran from him again. But at least now he knew how to find her. "Sure, whatever," he said flatly.

"Okay, I'll see you tomorrow than," she said concerned before pausing for a moment. When she heard a quick 'humph' in reply she hung up the phone.

Darien tossed the phone on the bench in frustration. How her attitude changed so quickly to suit her. Always on her terms. It was amazing that it took Serena to show back up in his life for him to notice how controlled he had been. How dull he let his life become. When exactly had he let the enjoyment of life slip through his fingers?

He took a quick moment to check on his son in the lounge room before finding himself in his office. Walking to his desk he took a seat with a huge sigh. Within the confines of his office was a small safe within the cupboard of his desk. Inside were items of significant value he had kept hidden over the years. However once his son was born, he locked them away. No one knew about them, it was like they were his own dirty secret. He felt ashamed for having them when his son was born. But he didn't have the heart to destroy them.

Taking a key from the top drawer of his desk he opened the cupboard and leaned down. Fumbling around a bit with the locks on the safe, he looked at the stack of yellowing envelopes on there. Pain shot across his features as he grabbed them out and laid the pile across his desk. There were 56 in total. He wrote a letter every week for a year, and once a year for 4 years. Across the front of each envelope in cursive writing was a single name, Serena.

It took him a full week to comprehend that she left, and was never coming back. He begged Andrew and the girls for her contact details, and despite them all saying they did not have any means to contact Serena, he needed to try himself. When it was clear he had no way of ever seeing her again, he dealt with his feelings and emotions by writing her letters. He didn't want to admit it to himself, nor did he have the time to see a psychologist.

Within each and every letter was his pain and aguish. His regret and wishes for wanting to change the past. Eventually he started to write about his successes. And than how everyone was trying to help him move on. The last one he ever wrote was a goodbye. Admitting that he may never see her again, and wishing that hopefully one day he could meet her once again.

He knew he shouldn't feel ashamed for feeling the way he did. But it was the fact that he never stopped loving her. Even though they didn't get the chance to start anything, he was madly in love with her for the years he had known her. And even know, he was attracted to Serena as his son's teacher, but when he learnt that it was indeed his Serena, his heart gave out. He couldn't describe it. But it saddened him that the situation was a mess, and he potentially destroyed the only chance he had of having her back in his life.

As much as he wanted a drink at that very moment, he controlled himself. He couldn't allow his mind to be consumed by alcohol and depression. He had a son to care for. Plus he needed to deal with these emotions for once and for all. He wasn't aware he was shaking until he went to grab a latter. He was so nervous because he knew exactly, clear as day what was written in these letters. Word for word. But he still felt the need to skim them over.

Would he ever get over this girl? Could he live with knowing she was at arms length? Could he live with knowing that perhaps any chance of friendship was impossible? Her words lingered in his brain from the other night. Once DJ moved into the next grade, there wouldn't be a reason to maintain contact. Even if his company went into a partnership with her parents, it still didn't mean anything. Maybe the odd ball or event here and there? But what if she found someone and brought him along as her date? Could he handle that? But alas… he was married himself.

But he knew that was done now. He couldn't continue on with this sham of a marriage. It died years ago, and although he gave up once on happiness, he couldn't allow another opportunity to pass him. Even if it took him years to find a way back to Serena, it would be worth it in the end. Even if he had to settle with friendship. Having her in his life at any capacity was far worth it than not at all.

The next day – Monday

Serena noticed a stack of newspaper in her reception foyer and decided to grab one on the way out to work. Unfortunately she didn't have the time to read it until after work. Glancing at it now, she noticed a small caption on the front page that read "Mysterious blonde, old school friend, page 8". 'So this is what mother was talking about,' she thought to herself. Flipping to the page she saw the photos from Friday's paper with a new headline, "Catch up with an old school friend". She skimmed the article; it was as her mother told her. They had bumped into each other and reminisced over lunch of the good old days. Whatever. It was done with now, and she hoped she would never see Darian again. It was hard since she noticed more and more how his son looked exactly like him, but she just had to finish the year off, and than any real connection or excuse to see one another would be severed. 'What do they say? No point in crying over split milk,' she thought. He was married, and they had two entirely different lives now. In ordinary life they would never run into each other, or see each other realistically.

She had just gotten up to start putting her stuff away when she heard a knock on the door. Glancing up she saw Melvin waving at her from the doorway.

"Hey Melvin," she straightened her back and smiled. Internally she was cringing. She had a few things she wanted to get done, and he could speak for hours.

"Serena! Do you have a spare moment to help me with something?" he asked politely with a grin.

"Sure," she said slowly, maintaining her smile. He had helped her a lot, so she felt compelled to offer her assistance when he needed it.

"Oh excellent!" he almost jumped, "I'm going to propose to Molly!" he almost yelled. It was clear he was struggling to keep this secret to himself.

Serena's eyed enlarged, "That's awesome! Congratulations! Molly will be so excited!" she was genuinely happy. They had all gone to school together, and Molly was head over heels for Melvin.

"Thanks Serena," he smiled, "I actually invited her sister Beryl over this afternoon to help me plan and organise. And I was wondering if I could get your opinion on a few things, since you're pretty close to Molly as well."

"Of course!" Serena smiled, "let me pack up here and I'll come to your office in a moment," she motioned back to her desk.

"No worries, see you soon," he spoke excitedly as he turned away from the door.

Yet another person getting married around her now. But she was truly happy for the pair. She quickly packed her belongings in her bag and organised her class for tomorrow's lesson. Switching the light off she closed the door and made her way to Melvin's office.

She was a few steps away when a fiery red head walked out. They had met each other a few times when she was at Molly's, but Serena still took a moment to re-introduce herself. "Beryl?" she waved to grab her attention.

"Oh, Serena? That you?" She looked confused for a moment. "My baby sister's friend. How have you been? All grown up I see. Hopefully not as annoying as you used to be," she was just as loud as she remembered her to be, and infuriating.

"Good, thanks. Must be exciting to help Melvin surprise Molly with this engagement?" she laughed a little. She didn't need to know, but she already assumed Melvin was planning something big!

Beryl released a sigh as she glanced back in the room, "He's draining! Which is why I am out here for a moment," she confessed. Most people felt the same way, "But my sister can put up with it, and he treats her good. So I guess I could offer some advice to the poor boy. As you know Molly loves a good surprise."

"Yeah," Serena smiled, "he asked for my opinion as well. Must be something pretty extravagant."

Beryl paused for a moment as she eyed Serena's fingers, "I noticed you're not married yet?" she said pointing to her hand, "I always thought you'd be first to be married before Molly. You were always the prettier one who caught the boy's attention. Not to mention you just look like the type to be a mum," she mumbled.

Serena let a laugh out. "One day," she smiled, pushing some hair behind her ear.

"Oh my!" Beryl suddenly gasped, "At least you have someone who loves you dearly," she grabbed at the bracelet on her wrist, "This looks expensive! Should we expect bells soon for you as well?" she giggled letting her wrist go. She couldn't help but notice the jealously in her eyes. Molly would always bitch about her sister being a bit of a gold digger, only dating guys who come from wealth.

Unconsciously Serena held her wrist covering the bracelet. "No, no, no," she said quickly. "No special someone at the moment, but who knows," she laughed, "maybe one day!" she was feeling a bit awkward now.

"Amen," Beryl agreed as she looked back into the room towards Melvin. "This man is going to extremes," she sighed before walking back in.

Serena let a breath out she didn't know she was holding. She almost wanted to hit herself. Last time she heard from Molly about her sister, Beryl was working on becoming a journalist. Was it possible she could have identified her bracelet? She took a quick moment to pray to the skies above before heading into Melvin's office.

Darien was relieved that today's newspaper was less discriminating to him. As was his business partner Andrew. Andrew had came blazing into his office with a massive grin across his face that read 'success' while holding the damn thing up to the skies! Of course Andrew also had to ruin it by adding Darien needed to be more careful in the future. Darien could tell he wanted to talk more about the Serena issue, but he thankfully left it. It was natural for Darien to disclose everything to Andrew, but he decided to keep his conversation with Raye to himself.

Tonight they would sit and talk. And they would. Tonight he wanted to make everything clear. Tonight was him resetting his life to how it should have been. Why had he kept all the charades up for so long anyway? They seemed like lame excuses to him now. But in reality there were some weight to his original worries about divorcing Raye, being in public spotlight, and of course his son.

The thought of today's newspaper, and finally realising what he needed to do, lifted his spirits a lot. Although he was probably severely depressed from last night re-reading his inner most thoughts at his most vulnerable moments, he happened to become very aware this morning how Raye had managed to pray upon him during those times.

She was supposed to be have been Serena's best friend? And some of the things Andrew had mentioned before were now making sense in his head as well. Raye was indeed a manipulator. And he couldn't allow things to continue as they were. It was going to get very messy, and emotional. And it was far from what he wanted for DJ, but he needed to do this! This was not just for him, but his son as well. That was clear to him now. So many things had become clear to him. Of course it was just a few days of overthinking, but deep down in his heart, he knew he needed to get this sorted. He finally accepted that his life could no longer continue the way it was going. There was no way to sustain it! Not any more.

There was so much on his mind keeping him preoccupied he didn't realise he had managed to get home so quickly. Of course it just felt like that. But usually he would have been worried and concerned and even anxious! But today he had a mission, a goal for tonight's talk. Oddly he felt in control and powerful. Why hadn't he done this earlier? Why hadn't he felt like he had his own voice in this marriage years ago?

It was odd walking to the door. Normally DJ would be running to greet him, but oddly the house was alight, a delicious smell was wafting over him, and suddenly his stomach dropped.

"Hey Dare," came Raye's soft voice as she popped her head into the hallway from the kitchen, looking at him through the front door. "How was work?" she asked watching him come through and kick off his shoes in the corner, placing his briefcase to the sidewall.

He stood up straight at looked at her with a blank face. 'What game is she playing?' he thought to himself. "Where's DJ?" he finally asked, furrowing his brows as he took a few steps forward.

"I asked the neighbours if they could have him tonight, since… well we have a few things we need to talk about," she said slowly as she watched him check the lounge room before coming towards her. She stepped aside and let him into the kitchen. Gosh how she felt so guilty at that very moment. She knew acting like this was too bazar. But for some reasons she felt like she needed to be the perfect wife right now to try and salvage whatever it was she had left with her husband. "Are you hungry?" she followed him, "I just put something quick on. There's enough for you too, if you want?" she said quickly and nervously. She was always in control and knew her game plan, but he was not acting like his usual self. He was walking around with purpose, and his face never betrayed his thoughts or emotions. She felt like her little façade was unravelling, fast!

"No. I won't stay long if DJ's not here," he replied flatly as he took a spot around the bench from her, "I do not want to do this anymore Raye. You can have whatever you want. But I will demand at minimum fifty, fifty access to DJ."

Raye instantly froze at his words. Her eyes went into shock as she opened her mouth to say something, but nothing came out. An awkward silence hung in the air.

Darien finally released a sigh of exhaustion as he ran a hand through his hair. He expected more from her, but he also assumed she really didn't expect him to finally stand up for himself. Judging by her current behaviour of 'acting' like a housewife he wanted, she thought she could manipulate her way back in. "Why do you stay Raye?" he suddenly asked, surprising both of them. "I'm already aware you have someone else… we're both not happy, so why are you trying to stay?" he shook his head in thought. It was a question he had asked himself a thousand times before. But was he really ready to face the answer?

Raye's surprise vanished and was replaced by anger. Anger at both herself and Darien. Anger at everyone! "Excuse me?!" she said with a start, "I'm your wife! The mother of your child! Why would I not stay?" she wailed, redirecting the heat off her. She had felt a wave of coldness drizzle over her when she heard him say it out loud that he knew she was seeing someone else. She had been so careful… perhaps Amy was right, her actions and behaviours probably gave her away. She was too cocky. Like tonight. Dressing up and playing housewife… it was too much. Perhaps she had always been like this?

Darien scoffed at her remarks, "Why did you push to be with me? I'm grateful for everything you had done during my weakest moments all those years back. But I thought that was just a friend helping a friend out. But then you were always around…" he started as he trailed off in thought. But then he remembered what Andrew said about Raye getting angry when he never paid her attention. He had thought that was one of the reasons why Raye hated Serena. Maybe it was about her? "Was this all about Serena?" he asked softly meeting her gaze.

She paused for a second as guilt flushed across her angry features. "Why would it be about Serena? Isn't she off in America somewhere living her life as carefree as possible?" Venom dripped from her words. For the first time Darien was aware just how much hatred Raye had towards Serena. But of course it had always been about her. Not a day went by when Raye not thought about the blonde!

"No," he shook his head, furrowing his brows, "She's DJ's teacher," he said slowly, watching how the information hit her ears.

"Teacher? That Serena?" she screwed her face up. "Why in heavens name would my son's teacher be the reason we are fighting?" She almost laughed.

"They are both one in the same person. Serena returned from abroad," he said flatly, eyes still pierced on Raye's face. He did not miss the flush that swept over her face as she swallowed hard.

She was clearly lost in thought about it all as silence hung between them. "What is DJ's teacher name again? B something?' she had long since threw out Serena's contact card from before she abroad. It did mention her new name. Damn herself for not remember now! Was it truly possibly they were the same? She almost wanted to hit herself for being complacent and not considering that the blonde might one day return. Maybe it was her cockiness? Thinking it wouldn't matter since she already had Darien.

"Raye?" Darien started again, "I think we need to really discuss this issue. Whatever happened between Serena and you are your issues. But I'm awake now from you manipulation. We're both so unhappy in this marriage. We hardly see each other as it is… I know when you were pregnant with DJ I told you I didn't want a broken home. But this is almost just as toxic for him. I'm happy to settle and give you anything you want. Just please help me keep the bare minimal in the public spotlight. But I will fight for DJ if I have to," he said calmly in an even voice. It may have sounded confident, but inside he was breaking down and crumbling. This was so hard, but he was drawing his strength from the empowerment his newly found freedom was giving him.

Raye was yet again astounded. How had it come to this so suddenly? She thought things were fine. She thought she still had control over the whole issue. But what he said was right. But she would never admit it. She had won. She couldn't let the man go just like that. Especially knowing he was probably going to ran back to pea brain blonde! But she didn't have any more aces up her sleeves. And she knew Darien would fight and take full custody of DJ. She felt like a dog stuck in the corner now. Which wasn't entirely true. She knew Chad was head over heels for her, and had offered on multiple occasions to look after her if she finally divorced Darien. But her heart was so conflicted. She loved Chad with every fibre. She could be happy with him. But she was still in love with the idea of owning Darien. Doing the impossible and making him love her! How could everyone expect her to give that up so easily?

"I'll contact the lawyer tomorrow to start the mediation process. You know my terms. You can also keep the house since you wanted this place. So while I organise to have a room made for DJ, he can stay with you here. I'll organise for movers to come and take my items away into storage ASAP," he said evenly again. His fists were clenched as he tried to maintain his steady appearance. When Raye didn't answer again he continued to the front door to his shoes.

She just watched him as he spoke. Leaning down to put his shoes back on and grabbing his briefcase. This was it. She felt like stones had filled her stomach. She was afraid that moving a muscle would mean she would collapse. How had things come this far? How had they gotten to the point of so much hostility? She stared as his tall frame looked haggard from it all. His face was almost lifeless as his eyes hooded over. The goodbye of his words washing over her like a stormy winters night. With the slam of the door signalling the finality of it all, she held herself, suddenly feeling very cold and alone.

A/N: couple of things… I promise I have plans for Raye's character to gain some brownie points for her misdeeds in a future chapter! But I really needed someone close to Serena to 'stab her in the back' - for all tense and purposes.

Secondly~ I couldn't think of a better character to make as Molly's sister since they both have red hair *cries in laughter*.

Lastly… please do not leave your children with people you do not completely trust! I'm sure everyone are aware of the stats surrounding child abuse and child sexual abuse… so I want to clarify that both Raye and Darien completely trust this older couple who have been married for years and were unable to have kids of their own.
On a side note, Darien kind of diverges a bit of private stuff to the couple since he sees them like parents, and grandparents to DJ. But it's taken years to establish the trust they have with the couple to let DJ stay with them most afternoons and some overnights.

Otherwise... I hope you have all enjoyed this instalment! Hopefully the next chapter shouldn't take as long *crosses fingers*. Until next time lovelies~