GWB12E

**START**

**57. Preparing weddings and bachelor parties.**

A few days after Leval's departure back to his future, things returned to normal. Daily life resumed. Each group of friends set about carving out their own future, hoping that the times of peace would last longer and that they would be able to live without any more troubles. And apparently, destiny wanted to grant them a truce for some time, which was not altered, except for some very specific problems. Important threats, yes, but they were able to solve them, as usual, with the help of their camaraderie and courage. In this way Roy began to play with continuity and achieved a lot of success, and little by little he was able to get a starting position. Tom finally went with Cooan to Portland and set up his gym there. She, for her part, began working as a kindergarten teacher, accepting an offer made to her several months earlier. The two of them opened their home in a suburban development. The others also returned to their usual occupations and places of residence. Roy and Beruche were left alone in New York and he, after one more day of work and house repairs, invited her to dinner. At a good restaurant in the city, the boy asked her to marry him in a more formal way. He had been waiting a long time to get to that moment and had it well prepared. So, he decided to put it into practice when the desserts were finished, then he handed her a small black box.

- What is this, Roy? - she asked him in surprise.

-Open it and find out for yourself. - He smiled invitingly. -

Of course, Beruche opened it and let out an Oh! of surprise and admiration. She was delighted and incredulous and discovered a gold ring with a beautiful diamond set in its center. Roy immediately proposed it to her while he gestured for her to try it on, which she immediately did, admiring the beauty of the jewel as he said.

-Miss. - The boy knelt theatrically before the astonished gaze of the rest of the diners and Bertie's blushes. - Do you want to marry me or are you going to keep me on my knees until dessert?

-Yes, Roy, of course I do, but please! - She mumbled redly to the amused looks of the rest of the patrons in the room. - "Get up, everybody's watching us!

-Well, let them look at us! - he replied nonchalantly, so much so that he stood up and shouted at once. - Hey, folks! She said yes, she's going to marry me! yay! - Everyone applauded with amused merriment. Bertie laughed and felt very happy, although she covered her face with her hands from the embarrassment she felt. And she was able to comment in amusement. - I've had to wait, but now you've asked me at least two or three times in just a short time.

- Of course! - the boy smiled, now regaining some of his composure. - But the main thing was missing, which was to give you the ring. My father always said that a woman should be proposed to on her knees and with a good piece of jewelry.

- Your father was a very clever man. - Bertie laughed, adding in a jocular tone. - I'm glad something has rubbed off on you.

For any rejoinder Roy gave him a long kiss on the lips and then said.

-And I'll explain more things to you at home....

- The ones your father used to say? - the girl asked. -

- Not exactly," - he smiled mischievously. -

And after a few more minutes the two of them returned to their chalet where the boy was going to tell her some rather private things. The kind of things that cannot be demonstrated in the presence of others. For her part Cooan also reacted with emotion and enormous happiness when Tom gave her his own engagement ring, gold with a ruby set in the center. Of course, he wasn't as outlandish as his friend. He did it in his new home and despite it being something much more intimate and unwitnessed, he was also very happy when she said yes to him. The young woman looked at her ring once her suitor had put it on and commented between surprised and melancholy.

-Until this very moment, the ruby was a stone that brought back very bad memories for me. But once again, you have managed to turn something sad into something joyful, something ugly into something beautiful. And that's why I love you so much, Tom.

-Thank you so much. - He smiled, but still allowed himself to joke. - I thought you loved me because I was so handsome.

That made Cooan laugh. That comment would have been worthy of Roy himself. He soon whispered in his boy's ear, though.

-Well, there's some of that too.

         And they gave each other a long kiss and then went on to even better things. After a few days, both couples told each other of their respective engagements and called each other. Tom and Roy chatted on the phone.

-So, you've officially asked her too, you Kansas hillbilly! - Roy exclaimed. - Congratulations!

-Congratulations to you, too. - His friend replied, amused to hear him remind him in turn. - And since we agreed that we could all celebrate together.

-I think it's a great idea. We could even propose it to the rest. - His interlocutor suggested. -

-That's fine with me. And Connie thinks it's a good idea too. - Tom confirmed, who was standing next to her, watching her nod with a big smile and another phone in his hand. -

-Warn Ail and Ann. - The girl reminded them. -

-That's true. - Roy agreed, remembering. - Ail asked him, and Annie agreed. Luckily, they decided to stay here for a while. To raise Giaal and for the child to learn to relate to people from Earth.

-That's true. -Tom intervened. - They had to teach the child to take on an ordinary human appearance. Although he looks like a normal baby, he can transform into an alien.

-His father told me that he was playing with it. And they had to be careful not to let anyone see him. - Roy told them. - I think Ami and Bertie may have seen him as a little Martian, one day when they met Annie and the kid. They said he was very cute.

That reminded Cooan of something and he immediately asked his friend.

- Is my sister around?

- No, she's teaching. - Her friend replied. -

-Of course, with the time difference, it's normal. - The girl replied. -

-But don't worry. - Roy affirmed with a cheerful tone. - I'm sure she'll be totally fine with the idea. I'll have her call you as soon as she can.

-I'd like to be able to plan it with her, and Annie! - An excited Cooan exclaimed. -

               And Roy certainly didn't forget, as far as he was concerned. So, Bertie and Cooan were able to start planning the whole thing, and in turn to warn Annie, who, on a brief visit to New York, came over to visit her friends. There Beruche filled her in on everything in more detail. In this way they agreed that the weddings were to take place at the same time and set a deadline of one month.

-We thank you very much. - Annie said to her friend. - It's a very nice thing to do. Since Ail proposed it to me, I have been documenting myself about this kind of ceremonies, the dresses, the banquet..." - She enumerated full of enthusiasm. -

-We're really looking forward to it too. - Bertie confessed. - By the way, didn't Ail and your son come?

-No, they stayed in Japan. Giaal is at Rei's house. She has grown very fond of him and together with Ami and the others, they take care of him when we are working. - The alien answered, wanting to know in turn. - And how is Roy?

-Playing with his team, he had to go south. - Her hostess informed her. - Those weird competition calendars he has.

Her friend nodded, although they quickly turned their attention to the subject at hand.

- Have you talked to Petz, Amanda and Emerald? Maybe they want to join us too.

-We did, but none of them are in a hurry to get married yet. But they will be here as our bridesmaids and Emerald has promised to find us some wedding dresses from her fashion house.

- Really? - An elated Ann exclaimed at her friend's smile. - That's great!

-The Deveraux House is one of the best, if not the best. - Bertie agreed with identical glee. -

-Well, Emerald also helped Ail find me a beautiful ring. My fiancé works together with Sapphire and Diamond, and he discussed these plans with them. Diamond told her about it and got her a very beautiful one.

And she immediately showed her left hand to her interlocutor, revealing a beautiful ring with an emerald set in it.

-I love this earthly custom. - Annie admitted. - It made me very happy when Ail gave it to me.

-Yes, most of us like that. - Bertie nodded, looking at her knowingly. -

          They chatted some more. When Annie left, they arranged to meet in New York to celebrate everyone's betrothal. Beruche confirmed this with her little sister who, of course, agreed. So, after a couple of weeks, the girls were reunited with Beruche, Cooan and Ann, helping them prepare the wedding dresses.

- I'm so happy for you girls! - Petz congratulated them with visible pride. - I can't believe you're getting married.

-Well, it's about time. - Ann said, - "It's about time you and Emerald got excited. It's a pity we couldn't organize a six-fold wedding.

-Yes, and now that I see you two so happy, I'm beginning to envy you. So, I too hope Diamond will make up his mind. He doesn't seem to dare ask me yet. But that's normal. I've told him myself that I'm very busy. And he's not exactly idle either. That's why we're not in too much of a hurry. In fact, we are very happy like this. - Emerald replied as she went over some details on the costumes. -

-Sapphire and I probably won't be long. - Petz said with enthusiasm. - He promised me that we would get married as soon as we were settled and stable. But I'm afraid we still have some way to go. Between battles and work we've barely been able to enjoy a life together. And for me that's the biggest prize. Anyway, we are also very happy. Although there is always that of having a beautiful ceremony, friends, family. And that we have a beautiful memory forever?

-Yes, I understand you very well - Emerald nodded, sighing resignedly. - It's the same for Diamond and me. Between the fights and our busy schedules, we haven't even had time to think about it yet, but I'm sure we'll both think about it later.

- We'd better hurry up or at this rate the world is going to turn into a Gruyere cheese! Hopefully the space invaders will give us a long truce, or rather, a definitive one. - Annie said to the assent of the others. -

- I couldn't agree with you more. Let's hope the calm lasts long enough for us to stabilize for once. - Cooan pleaded, whose wish was shared entirely by her sisters and friends. -

-Well, Nephrite and I have just met. - Amanda intervened, who had been silent until then, now going on to unveil the others. - I also hope that, in the future, we can share a life and start a family. - She added, turning to Ann. - You and Ail have been living together for a long time, haven't you? Besides, you have a child, it's as if you were already married.

-That's true," - she admitted. - We wouldn't need it, but the truth is that Ail, and I are looking forward to this ceremony, to celebrate it with our friends. And in my case, seeing how beautiful the dresses are, I'm already looking forward to dressing up as a bride.

Emerald had kept her word. When she told her boss that she wanted some dresses from the bridal collection and explained who they were for, Madame Deveraux nodded, telling her in an affable tone.

-Très Bien, Ma chère. Choisissez ceux que vous voulez.

So, the model told her. Her friends were perplexed and very grateful to the woman.

-We should have invited her. It's the least. - Cooan sighed. -

-I mentioned something to her at Bertie's suggestion, but Madame Deveraux told me that her schedule didn't allow it. - Emerald replied. -

-I was going to tell you girls. But it was all so sudden, when Emerald called me to tell me that her boss authorized her to choose any dress for us, I was so happy that I spontaneously asked her to tell that lady. I'm sorry I didn't ask you. - Bertierite hastily excused herself. -

-Don't worry. You did the right thing. - Annie affirmed. -

-That's right. - Cooan also said, adding excitedly. - Well, now we are about to fulfill one of our fondest wishes.

-Together with my son Giaal, this is the best thing that has ever happened to me. - Annie smiled. -

-I'm looking forward to having a child too,"- Beruche sighed, remembering Leval.  -

-I'd like that too, I just love kids," - Cooan agreed. - I'm lucky to work as a teacher, it's very nice. Besides, you get a lot of day-to-day experience with them.

-Yes, that's true," - Bertie agreed. - Although mine are older and most of them were not very sociable. I am getting better to know them, though.

She alluded to the place he had recently obtained in a secondary school, located in a not very recommendable area where she almost had to deal more with her students entering the class unarmed than with teaching the subjects. In response, Petz asked her, not without surprise.

- But Bertie, you had a great opportunity when you were offered a top school only an hour's drive from the city. How did you decide to go to that complicated and dangerous one?

-Let's say it's a kind of challenge, I want to get something from those kids, I know I can. And don't worry, most likely when Roy and I get married, and I get pregnant I'll switch. The owners of a very prestigious private high school have offered me a position for next year. It wouldn't be too far from home. But I didn't want to accept before because I want to prove myself as a teacher under any conditions.

-I am convinced of that. - Her older sister affirmed emphatically. -

-Petz is right. - Cooan agreed, then clarified. - But that's for everyone to decide for themselves. As for me, I'll be happy with a peaceful life with my nursery children and my own, God willing, Tom and I will get on with it before too long.

She blushed obviously and the others gave amused and complicit smiles.

-The truth is that I'm not so keen on kids. - Emerald admitted then. - I'm not in such a hurry to have them.

-That's because you haven't been a mother yet," -Petz smiled, adding encouragingly and emphatically. - You'll see someday when you have them! There won't be anything more important for you.

-But Petz," - Amanda objected. - You're not a mother yet either, how can you say that with such conviction?

-Because I'm the eldest of four sisters. - She replied with a tinge of authority on the subject that gave her the necessary knowledge of the cause. - I have had to take care of these two since they were little, and that is in practice like being their mother," - she asserted amidst the laughter of the alluded girls who nodded in agreement. -

-Come on, Petz, it's no big deal! - Bertie was able to say with glee. -

None of them mentioned Karaberasu at that moment, even Petz herself spoke of two and not three sisters when answering Amanda. And no one rectified her. But they all thought of her, there seemed to be an unwritten rule, remember her separately, but not as a group so as not to be saddened. They were sure that she would be back soon. Thus, between laughter and more talk, the time passed. The days passed and the moment was approaching. The morning before the wedding, they had arranged to meet with the rest of their friends to celebrate the news of the triple wedding and then go to a party. The girls would all be dressed up and looked very beautiful, the brides, of course, in their white gowns. The boys, meanwhile, would be smartly attired in tuxedos, and their appearance would be impeccable. Some joked that they looked like a branch of Tuxedo Kamen Sama.  But on this day before the ceremony, they would allow themselves to go casual. They would eat around and later split into two groups, the girls on one side and the boys on the other. They were already looking forward to the celebrations and finally Mamoru and the warriors arrived. Mamoru arrived dressed in a green corduroy jacket and navy-blue pants. Although when he had to get dressed up, it would be enough to invoke his Tuxedo transformation, but without the mask.  As they had done before, they remembered the joke and Roy, as soon as he saw him and knew the circumstance, joked with him about it.

- Mamoru boy! your uniform is a bargain. You always look smart everywhere, and besides, do you know how much it cost us to rent these suits? - They all laughed. -

- I must have had some advantage," - the alluded one smiled, adding with a jocular sense of humor. - Between that and the roses, I'm well off!

Usagi went over to congratulate her friends on the impending marriage. She confessed that, before long, she and her boyfriend would do the same. Roy was surprised.

- How come you've waited so long? - he asked. -

-You see," - the girl smiled who now spoke much better English. - When the fight against Galaxia was over, I had just turned sixteen. In my country that is the minimum legal age for marriage. And yet we had to get a little more established as a couple, we hadn't seen each other for a long time. And we decided that it was better to try to continue with our studies and be a little older. I will soon be twenty and in my country that is the age to be officially an adult. Possibly then we will take the step towards marriage. By the way, I hope you will come to my coming-of-age party.

-That's done. - Tom commented. -

-Well, I thought you were older. - Roy admitted affirmatively. - When you go as Sailor Moon and especially as Princess Serenity or Queen, or whatever, you're all grown up. You certainly act very mature.

          She blushed at the compliment. Meanwhile Bertie approached them and received congratulations from the couple of friends and from Ami and Rei who joined the group. Mars was able to declare in a relieved and happy tone.

-It seems that at last all our battles are over. The last one was very hard. I still remember it. And it's been more than three years now.

-Yes," - Ami agreed, adding. - Thank goodness we had help.

- Who did you have to deal with? With all the mess in our daily lives, we didn't even ask. - Bertie wanted to know in surprise, in fact, they hadn't heard about it, immersed in their own worries. -

-It's normal. We were all very busy," - Ami said. -

-Against Chaos himself, who took over a powerful warrior, the strongest in the galaxy. In fact, she called herself that. - Rei replied. -

- Galaxy Warrior? - Roy was surprised, affirming of course with his typical sense of humor. - And was she hot? You should have left it to me!

          As it could not be otherwise, he earned the elbow of Bertie who, shaking her head disapprovingly, but with an amused smile, said.

-It's clear that you'll never change. What a cross! - She said, paraphrasing Luna the cat, who was also hanging around with Artemis. -

-Besides being powerful, she had a beautiful fur. - Ami admitted, who reddened visibly when her companions questioned her with their eyes. - Well," - she added. - At least that's what you said, Usagi.

-Yes, it's true," she admitted, putting a hand to her head, and smiling to add. - And the combat was difficult. But we finally managed to expel the Chaos from inside her and Galaxia returned to patrol the confines of the universe returning the star seeds to the sailors from whom she took them. Now we have many female warrior friends in other solar systems. Maybe someday they will come to visit us, at least we hope so.

-Speaking of which there is something that has intrigued me ever since you granted us the power to become Justicieras. - Cooan interjected. -

Her friends watched her, waiting for that question, and the girl did not take long to expose.

-Those star seeds. We had them all inside us, didn't we?

-That's right. - Usagi nodded. -From them came your stones of Justice. Then the seeds went back inside you.

- Does everyone have star seeds then? - Bertie asked. -

-Yes, although only a few women possess the right ones to be sailors. - Rei answered. -

-That's why I wanted to do something different with you. Being a Justiciera is possible for any woman with a pure heart who accepts it freely, and she can pass that power on to another woman.

Bertie and Cooan remembered. That's what Usagi told them that same time when she granted them that power. But Usagi added.

-But in your case, in addition, you have a difference. Your former lives as guardians of the Earth. That was something very similar to the Sailor category. That is why I was able to bring forth your seeds with such ease. I could not have created the stones with those of other women.

-That means that we can transfer the stones to others to give them that power. But that you could not sprout other women´s star seeds to create new stones. - Bertie deduced. -

Her interlocutor nodded, then commented.

-Like you, there are many defenders of other worlds. Many are sailors and protect those planets from the forces of evil. Some of them even fought against us in times past.

Although none of them had the chance to go deeper into the subject because Roy, as always showing his sense of humor, intervened jocularly proposing.

-You can send them a little message and have them come over, I'll take care of setting up a party just for hot chicks, ex-enemies!

               Although the subsequent slap from Beruche didn't take long to arrive and while the boy was rubbing his neck, the others burst out laughing.

-Well, if you have transformed many of your former enemies like you did us, you can count on a large army. - Annie said. -

             Usagi smiled, not responding to that. Although, unbeknownst to her friend, she wasn't far off the mark.

-That would be a great idea. - Tom agreed, humorously pleading as well. - It wouldn't be bad if all your former enemies and now your friends and allies dropped by for a visit. They'd all have a lot to talk about!

-Of course, we could fill almost a stadium with all of us who have faced Sailor Moon and the rest of the sailors. - An amused Cooan commented. -

-You were all tough opponents. - Rei replied. - That's why we were so glad that you came over to our side. By the way. - She wanted to know now. - How are things at your new home?

- Wonderful! - the respondent smiled. - We hope you'll come to visit us very soon.

-I'm sure there will be a chance. - Sailor Mars agreed. -

-What we must set up is a big celebration. - Ail affirmed. - When we do the wedding.

           So, the rest nodded wishing it would be so. Tom meanwhile had moved away a bit and was now talking to Sapphire. They told each other the same things as the girls and gave the same answers as they did about get married.

-I plan to ask him in a few months. - Sapphire declared. -

         Then her brother, who was listening at a short distance, intervened.

-That sounds like a good idea, I want to do the same with Emerald. I think she is starting to get impatient. We could get married at the same time as Tom and the others are going to do, don't you think, brother? - He proposed very animated. -

-Yes, that would be very nice. - His interlocutor said. - If it were possible...

It was Nephrite who then approached with a few bottles of champagne and some glasses and declared with amused mock solemnity.

-As I used to say when I was Masato Saint Join, the stars know everything. And after looking at them I predict that you are going to be very happy. So, let's celebrate with class! - He uncorked one of them and everyone toasted to the happiness of the couples. -

-Wow! This is good champagne. - Diamond praised. -

-We deserve no less. - His friend smiled as they toasted. -

-Look, I agree with you on that. - Agreed his interlocutor with a chuckle. -

The girls, for their part, had arranged themselves in a lively huddle, laughing and telling each other about their plans.

-Since I already know that I will get married and have a daughter in the thirtieth century, I'm not that worried, but I hope I won't have to wait that long. - Usagi laughed. -

-Well, I guess you won't have any other choice. - Rei replied with her usual mocking tone. - Maybe a thousand years from now Mamoru will decide to marry you, because the truth is that when it comes to you, that's something to think about a lot.

- Rei, you're so cruel! - Usagi bawled, opening a mouth the size of a mailbox. - Boo-hoo, boo-hoo!

- Yes," - Makoto was able to whisper towards her now embarrassed companion. - Honestly, Rei, this time you've gone too far.

- How do you say that to Usagi? You know how sensitive she is on that subject," - Minako interjected with an admonishing tone in her voice. -

Rei watched her with some concern. The others also gave her reproachful glances. She just wanted to make a joke, not to depress her. Of course, that had not been her intention. Her friend was sometimes incomprehensible.

- I'm sorry," - She was able to reply in a softer and more conciliatory tone. - Don't take it like that, woman. It was just a joke.

- Oh, oh, oh, oh! - the cat Luna exclaimed, launching her resignedly accustomed. - What a cross, what a cross!

-It was just Rei's joke, woman," - Ami tried to cheer her up, insisting in a soft voice. - Don't be like that!

They all tried to console her, but suddenly Usagi laughed, scratched her head, and exclaimed with jovial humor.

- It doesn't matter what that witch Rei says! Mamoru loves me very much and will love me all my life, how nice! - They all fell sprawling on the floor. Except for Mars, who now snapped at her with irritation. -

- Who are you calling a witch, you silly fool!

-It's obvious, isn't it? - Her friend replied, squinting her eyes, crossing her arms, and looking at her with mock indifference, while she gave a malicious little smile, to justify herself. - The one who pretends to guess things is a witch. And I must add that she's a grouch and a curmudgeon to the max.

-Well, I'm also going to guess who's going to give you a black eye. Come here and I'll tell you! - She replied intimidatingly, raising a fist. -

-It will be the same one who is going to get a kick in an unmentionable place. - Usagi said in the same tone. - Come closer, you'll soon find out who....

- All right girls don't start as usual! - A hurried Makoto measured interposing herself between the two who were already starting to stick their tongues out at each other. -

-That's right. - Minako mused. - With you two we don't need any more alien attacks. We must keep you two apart at all hours of the day.

-For once, and considering the occasion, behave yourselves. - Ami asked them with her sweet soothing tone that used to give such effective results. -

And as neither of the two polemicists wished to spoil the party, they simply averted their eyes from each other and turned their backs. The crisis was over, at least for a while, until one of them returned to rebuke the other with a treacherous insult or else they made peace. And for the resigned patience of the rest, the first option was always the most likely...

-Of course, sometimes they sound like kindergarten. - Makoto snorted. -

-You can say that again. -  Ami agreed with Minako's complicit nod. -

Although for the moment the waters returned to their course and recovered from the scare, Chibiusa, who this time had come and had grown considerably (she came back from the future with about twelve years). She enthusiastically asked Cooan.

- You're going to be beautiful brides! Tell me, will you have a special hairstyle for the wedding...?

-Maybe I will. - She smiled as she lovingly brushed the girl's hair to tell her - ...and you will help me, okay, sweetie?

Chibiusa nodded in delight at the idea. She told Connie that she was now busy learning her duties as First Lady and heir to the throne of the Silver Millennium.

-I must be in the future for quite some time. My mother says my main duty is to learn to rule.

-And your mother is very wise. She is quite right. – Cooan agreed, who with visible interest and making an aside with her, asked her. - Tell me something, Chibiusa, where are you in the future?

-Well, I've spent a few years there. - The girl answered evasively. -

-Yeah. - Cooan sighed, looking at her with a pleading expression to ask. - Do you know anything about Nemesis?

And both Bertie and Petz, who were nearby, approached her with curiosity. Although the young girl could barely mumble, averting her gaze.

-It's just that I haven't had the chance to leave the palace of Crystal Tokyo.

-Of course. - Petz intervened affably. - It is logical. Our home world is so far away.

-I'm sorry. - The hurried brood was able to apologize. -

-Don't worry about it. We're so glad you're here. We really are. And we're the ones who should apologize for how badly we treated you. - Bertie was able to say in a quiet voice. –

-That's already forgotten. We are friends now. And I want to introduce you to some very special people. - Chibiusa said, brightening her tone to change the subject while beckoning to a group of girls and calling out to them. - Come here for a moment...

         And it was that along with the girl had come four girls with curious hairstyles, each wearing a beautiful long-skirted oriental-style outfit of a particular color.

-My friends and teammates. - Chibiusa declared. -

           Those four young ladies approached. The tallest one, wearing red, introduced herself as Ves-Ves. She wore a kind of impossibly big and high bow tie. Another in a green dress said her name was Jun-Jun. Her hairstyle was not easy to find either, with a sort of green ball at the end of a long ponytail or whatever it was. The third, named Cere-Cere, who wore a saffron-colored dress, had two large hair rings on either side of her head and looked the most grown-up. Finally, the youngest, or at least with more childish features, named Para-Para, who seemed to opt for a somewhat less exaggerated hairstyle, with a chignon and two ponytails that fell, ending in two little blue balls, the same shade as the costume she was wearing.

-They are my group of sailors, the Asteroids. - Chibiusa declared as she introduced them. - Guardians and warriors of the Thirtieth Century.

The four of them saluted very politely.

-It is a pleasure. - Cere-Cere commented. -

-Cybiusa holds you in high esteem. -Ves-Ves added politely. -

The sisters looked at each other with a look of circumstance. Visibly embarrassed, it was Bertie who dared to confess.

-That honors her. Considering that we were enemies of hers and that we wanted to kill her.

-I know, but don't worry. – A lighthearted Para-Para intervened, affirming without seeming the least bit worried. - So did we.

That made her friends and Chibiusa herself laugh, and even brought a smile to the sisters' faces. Petz then said with more relief and even humor.

-Then it must be a prerequisite to be friends with her.

There was more laughter. Roy walked over attracted by that and he waved amusedly.

-Hi girls.

- Hi!" - the Asteroids replied in chorus. -

-Well, you're Chibiusa's friends, aren't you? - he asked. -

-Yes." - They answered in unison. -

- Well, I thought you were going to play a game of billiards with so many balls in your heads! - He laughed. -

The girls looked at each other puzzled. Cooan sighed, lowering her head with a blush, Bertie looked back at the boy and Petz pretended she hadn't heard anything. Chibiusa laughed, though. That made her companions mimic her.

-You are all welcome. Any friend of Chibiusa or the rest of the sailors is a friend of ours. - He affirmed, wanting to make up for that slip of the tongue. -

-Thank you very much. - Jun-Jun replied.

- You are Bertie's boyfriend, right? – Cere- Cere asked -

-Yes, I am. - He nodded. -

-You're very funny. – Para-Para declared, wanting to know with overt brazenness: - "Are you that guy who changes his hair color?

Now it was her friends' turn to look away. But Roy smiled, answering in a sporting spirit.

-That's right, and with no dye or anything....

            That produced more hilarity among the group. Luckily, Para- Para didn't have a chance to ask him to prove it, Usagi's proximity dissuaded her from doing so.

-Well. - Tom who in turn had approached there declared. - We must go to eat. Then we won't see each other again until the wedding.

-That's right," - his friend agreed. - Let's go to the restaurant, we have plenty of tables reserved.

And the two of them went there, together with the girls and the rest. Chibiusa, for her part, stayed a little behind watching Usagi and Mamoru arrive. It was Mamoru who, after greeting her, noticed her face of circumstances.

- Is everything all right? - he asked the one who was destined to be her daughter. -

-Well. - The girl sighed, answering in a low voice. - The sisters asked me about Nemesis. You know, in the future.

-I do understand. - Mamoru commented with a serious gesture to add. - And you didn't tell them anything, did you?

- Of course not! - the girl hastened to reply. - I told them I've barely left the Crystal Tokyo palace. Which is true. Although...

-You didn't talk about your mission, neither in this time, nor in the thirtieth century, did you?

-Not at all. - Chibiusa affirmed. -

-We can't condition them in any way. - Mamoru affirmed, sentencing. - From their current point of view the future of Nemesis is yet to come. And it will not affect them directly. At least the sisters who are already here, currently.

-For one thing, I'd like to tell them what will happen. – A grieving Chibiusa sighed. - Especially to...

                 Although Usagi waved her hand to keep silent, her interlocutor did so and her future progenitor declared in a serious tone, quite different from her crazy behavior during the whole meeting.

-And we would also love to know in detail, but Neo Queen Serenity, or rather myself in a thousand years, does not think it convenient. And that must be for a good reason.

-That's right. - Mamoru agreed. - If even we are not aware of the events that will take place, no one can be informed. I hope you made that clear to the Asteroids.

-Yes, don't worry. - Chibiusa nodded gravely. - They won't tell them anything.

              With that said, they parted to go and exchange friendly conversations with each other. After the meal, as tradition dictated, the bride and groom separated. They would not see each other until the appointed time. The boys, for their part, had decided to go on a bachelor party to a bar on the outskirts of the city, by far the worst nightclub in the area. However, that did not worry them too much. The girls, on the other hand, decided on a much more elegant place. At least that's what they told their partners. In fact, they went to a male strip show. Of course, only those of legal age were allowed to go. To the annoyance of some of them, in accordance with New York State law, the sailors had to miss out on the fun. The problem was that alcoholic beverages were being served and they were not yet twenty-one years old. In any case, they preferred to visit the city at their own pace, although in the case of some of them they still wanted to party, as Minako and Makoto would have loved to go. Not to mention Usagi and Rei, who had their penultimate row when sailor Mars threw her out of the blue with a tone between condescending and mischievous.

-We could take Usagi. Maybe she'll find a man she likes better than Mamoru.

-I wouldn't like any man more than Mamoru," - her interlocutor stated, affirming with the same tone in her voice. - You wish!

-Then Seiya doesn't count," - Mars smiled sententiously. - Of course, sometimes he was a man and sometimes he wasn't?

- Look who went to talk! - Usagi denounced, raising her tone. - If we bring up any of the little magazines you read... with Yuuichirou back at the shrine for vacation at his school, let's see if you'll make up your mind once and for all, monkey!

- Which magazines are those if I may ask? -  Rei said in turn. - And leave Yuuichirou alone, he's a friend and that's it....

-Yes, yes...a friend - her polemicist told her with patent glee when she saw how her interlocutor blushed at times. - Sure... I'd like to see you through a little hole...

-Well, if I were you, I'd be worried if Mamoru went with the other guys. I'm sure they'll introduce him to half a dozen girls much prettier than you. - Rei countered. -

- You don't believe that yourself! - Usagi mocked, sticking her tongue out at her. -

                 Rei did the same and there they were, competing to know which of the two kept that mocking gesture for longer, while making the characteristic noises that accompanied that, to the embarrassment of the rest of her companions.

-Well, that's enough, you look like two kindergartners. - Ami, who didn't know where to look, told them. -

-You can't be taken anywhere. - Minako sighed. -

- How about a tour of New York? I've always wanted to see it. - Makoto proposed, trying to make them forget this new discussion. -

            At least Mamoru, who was studying in that same city, would be their guide. The boy offered to do so. (The latter was more at the insistent request of Usagi who, despite everything, affected by Rei's teasing, did not trust that he would not go out with the others in search of possible flirtations). In fact, all the sailors, together with Chibiusa and the sailor Asteroids, went on an excursion, had a good time and once alone they talked more seriously. Now it seemed that Rei and Usagi had never argued when Mars asked her friend.

-So fortunately, those spacetime anomalies have ceased and Chibiusa was able to return. At least that's what she told me.

-Yes and no. - She replied, clarifying. - After what happened in Nemesis after our fight against the Phantom of Death, she had to take care of some things. She couldn't tell me exactly which ones.

-I do see. She can't condition you with what she knows will happen. - Rei nodded. -

-That's right. - Her friend responded, explaining. - Chibiusa has at least two missions to carry out. One of them is scheduled for a point closer to the future. Now she has been able to travel to this point in time to attend the wedding. Then she won't be able to do it again until years from now and she herself has grown up and taken on that other task.

-This moment will mark a kind of frontier in the spatial-temporal fabric. - Mamoru said, commenting. - As Setsuna explained to me, to deal with these things simultaneously, Chibiusa has been abusing these trips too much and in different periods of her life. Therefore, in order not to coincide with herself, she must wait until she is almost an adult to go back in time. And she won't be able to do it to the twentieth century until then, apart from the fact that she will have to be very careful about the date on which she reappears.

-It makes sense. - Ami stated, stroking her chin. - She couldn't appear before witnesses from this era as an adult and then as a child. Or see herself. It could cause temporal paradoxes that would reopen those distortions.

-Yes, that sounds interesting. - Minako said who, changing her thoughtful expression to a more lighthearted one, exclaimed. - Well, surely Setsuna must have explained everything very well. And Chibiusa is very smart. She'll know how to handle it.

- Thank goodness it's her and not her future mommy who has to make those trips! -Rei grinned mischievously, laughing amusedly. - Or we could run into dozens of Usa-Chan around here!

- Ha, ha, ha, ha! - the alluded one exclaimed with patent irony, although fitting the joke. -

-Come on, it's a joke. - The priestess said in a conciliatory tone. -

-And, besides, we're in New York, aren't we? Let's go to Fifth Avenue. I'm crazy for window shopping! - Minako added. -

-That's a good idea. -Makoto agreed with equal enthusiasm. -

The others didn't make themselves begging and dragged Mamoru who was caught in a whirlwind tour of almost every store in the place, although Ami was not so devoted to seeing those rags and thought....

-This is too convoluted. I hope there are no unforeseen side effects. Setsuna has warned us many times. The balance of the space-time fabric is very delicate.

But at the request of her friends, she put that aside and joined the rest who were already feasting their eyes on the jewelry and expensive dresses on display. Chibiusa and the Asteroids were lagging them. The princess commented to them.

-I know we talked about it before coming, but you must be very careful. Don't talk too much. And avoid any questions. Even if they come from my future parents. Understood?

Her listeners nodded seriously now. And so Chibiusa was able to smile a little more relaxed and advise her group.

-Well, let's have a good time then. We won't be able to return for some years after this time. When we ourselves are older.

           And that's what they did, lending themselves to browsing in as many shop windows as necessary. Meanwhile, in a bar, the boys occupied some tables. Roy, Tom and Ail came over to order drinks, since as boyfriends, they were buying. Tom whispered to them.

-I don't like this atmosphere at all. Do you know where we've got to?

-Bah," - Ail replied nonchalantly. - "After fighting demons, space invading androids and so on, what could be so terrible here?

-I wouldn't say that so calmly if I were you. - Roy advised him jokingly as he added amused. - As far as I know, many of those demons wouldn't dare to come here.

One of them, fat, bearded, full of tattoos and wearing a leather biker jacket, shouted at Ail.

-Hey you, dummy! That's my part of the bar. - He pointed to the place where Ail had put the drinks, and the rest was practically free. -

-But, if you're there,"- the questioned one objected, pointing at him in turn, since the guy was indeed a couple of meters away. -

-Be careful," - Tom, who preferred to spend a quiet evening, whispered. - This guy is one of those who look for a pretext to get into a fight.

-Don't worry, Tom, nothing will happen. - His friend answered him, affirming with conviction. - There are several of us. - Although his interlocutor shook his head fearing the worst. -

And indeed, that guy approached Ail with the airs of a tavern bully, pushed him in a bad way and then said: "That's my part too!

- That's my part too!

           Laughter could be heard in the background. A group of individuals, dressed similarly to the provocateur, looked on amused, seated at various tables and apparently eager to intervene.

- Good grief! - Roy sighed resignedly as he slyly counted them, -there must be ten or twelve of them.

-Guys. - Diamond who observed what happened from the table and went to his friends with not too much concern to say. - Looks like there's going to be trouble

- Good for them! - his younger brother added, visibly cheered up. - It's been a long time since I've had fun with a friendly fight!

That stunned the others who gave him curious looks. Sapphire smiled with a shrug of his shoulders to justify himself.

-It's just that Piccolo Sama got us used to it. You know.

-The truth. You're right. - His brother admitted, smiling mischievously in return. -

-We'll have to hit them lightly,"- Nephrite warned thoughtfully. - These aren't demons or androids, and they won't last that long, but it'll be fun. If we don't kill any of them.

- Here we go and be careful to make them last! - Sapphire cheered her friends who, this time, nodded in agreement, looking forward to a fun time. -

-Okay. But any exhibition is forbidden. - Roy told them. - With these guys, it has no merit.

The others, after smiling and nodding, got up and followed their companions to the bar. Meanwhile, two more guys had joined the bearded one. Diamond said to Roy in a loud voice.

- What's the matter?

-Nothing," - he replied amused, pretending to ignore that he was being overheard. - Some assholes who want to get their teeth knocked out.

- Really?" - the fat man responded with an irritated tone. - We'll see who's going to lose them, smart guy!

On the other hand, Ail, on Tom's advice, was trying to avoid the fight. He got up from his stool with a beer in his hand and said with a conciliatory air.

-All right, mate, I'm off. We don't want any trouble, do we?

He turned to walk away, but one of the men shoved him, knocking his beer over and causing him to stain himself.

- Are you scared? - the man mockingly asked him, to the smiles of his companions. - Hey, guys! - He turned to the rest of his biker friends in a falsetto voice to exclaim. - Did you hear the baby; he doesn't want any trouble. But he's already found it.

It was then Sapphire who approached the guy with a gesture of circumstance.

-I wouldn't provoke us if I were you," - he whispered calmly. - You could look very bad, my friend.

-Please," - Tom asked. - Don't get into trouble, we're getting married tomorrow. I wouldn't want to spend the night behind bars.

-Relax, Tommy," - Roy said, who was getting more and more animated. - This promises to be fun.

In the meantime, the whole group of bikers rose towards Sapphire. One of them brandished a chain threateningly.

- You're going to swallow your teeth, sucker! - He shouted. - "Look boys! - He pointed to Diamond who approached his brother and added jocularly. - Your boyfriend has even come to defend you!

- Fuck, what a mania they all have for the same thing! - the prince grumbled, more than irritated and fed up with the confusion. The result of certain ignominious rumors spread from Nemesis by some disgruntled people. Exclaiming - Why won't they ever believe that we are brothers?

But that seemed to be the least of it for his interlocutors. And those guys already had sticks, chains, and knives in their hands, apparently out of nowhere. The rest of the local clientele was already leaving in a hurry. Nephrite for his part took off his jacket. Slowly and carefully, as if the growing tension in the place was not at all with him, he put it back on his chair.

-Well, boy," - Roy said, looking at him in astonishment. - We're about to get into a fistfight and you're busy folding your jacket.

-You must always behave like a gentleman. It's essential to show personality in these times. Besides, it's a good tweed jacket. - Nephrite replied condescendingly. - It cost me a pretty penny and it's custom-made.

- OK, OK, OK! - his interlocutor exclaimed with an inviting smile. - Well, when you're done, go get 'em!

- Good, good, good! We're going to give them a good show. - Diamond repeated, cracking his knuckles as he advised with restrained enthusiasm. - But remember, take it easy, let's make them last a while.

- Come on, guys, calm down," - Tom insisted, opening his arms wide and trying unsuccessfully to reason. - I don't want to get into a fight.

- Ahh!" - they all replied contemptuously at the same time, waving their hands. -

- Come on, Kansas hillbilly, don't be a killjoy! - Roy asked him, adding even in a reproachful way. - If you don't feel like it, stay in the corner.

Meanwhile Ail approached the guy who had pushed him and reproached him with apparent condescension.

-Look what you've done, this was a new suit. My girlfriend had picked it out for me and she's going to be very angry. You're going to have to spend a lot of money to pay me for the dye to avoid it.

- Don't make me laugh! - said the other one, advising him with mockery. - You'd better worry about your burial, it'll be cheaper!

             And having said that, he raised a plate to hit Ail. The alien dodged him effortlessly. And so, it went on and on. While the fat man was trying his best to hit him. His opponent indolently avoided his attacks and declared dispassionately.

-That's not very smart, you're going to oblige me to make you eat the mug. - And he pointed to a thick, frosted tankard on the bar as a warning. -

- Dare you try it, sucker!  - his rival shouted at him, sweating profusely and almost exhausted by his repeated unsuccessful attempts at punching. -

Two other guys attacked Sapphire who also dodged them without problems, throwing them against the wall.

-You're not being polite at all. - Nephrite commented with a monotonous and almost paternalistic tone. - We're going to have to teach you a lesson in good manners.

        One of those guys attacked him with a chain on his arm, but he grabbed it with little effort and pulling it dragged his aggressor, throwing him against the tables of the bar that broke with the impact. The scuffle degenerated into an open fight. Ail had punched the guy attacking him in the stomach, rather loosely, but that was enough to leave him doubled over on the floor. Tom, increasingly disgruntled, shouted without anyone paying him the slightest attention.

- Stop it, knock it off! - Then one of those guys jumped on him to hit him with a stick. The boy dodged him, shouting angrily. - Imbecile! I didn't get involved, but now you're going to find out! - and with a swift kick he sent him against two others. The three of them turned on him and the boy exclaimed. - " Okay, I've had enough, leave these idiots to me!

         And the others did so. Then he began to give them the most varied karate blows to release the stress, without any of his rivals being able to reach him. Roy in turn was hitting (or rather, pushing three of them at the same time). Diamond and Nephrite were carelessly dodging several opponents in turn while chatting with each other in a relaxed manner.

-Hey, your jacket is very well cut. - Diamond commented, turning his head away from the attempts of one of those guys to smash a bottle on his head. -

-I've already said that it's made to measure, in one of the best tailors in London. When you and Emerald come to visit, if the owner hasn't retired by then, I'll take you. - He smiled with his typical British slyness, while carelessly dodging another gang member's attempts to hit him with a cue stick. -

-Touché, mon ami. - His interlocutor admitted. -

           And at a signal between the two of them they blew those individuals over the bar. Sapphire grabbed two by the neck and smashed their heads together.

- What do you think? - Master Piccolo's style. Now I understand why he liked to do this to us so much, although in the case of these guys it sounds hollow! - He declared in amusement to the complicit smiles of his friends. -

Ail got rid of two others and lifting the fat man who had attacked him earlier from the ground, he made him open his mouth until he put part of a jug in it. In the meantime, he said mockingly, slapping his bulging cheeks.

-It's nothing personal, but I'll keep my word, my friend.

Finally, the bar was trashed, and all the gang members were out of action. The guys were still standing as if nothing had happened. Roy dusted off his suit saying.

Okay, as a warm-up, it wasn't bad at all. But the night is young, let's go somewhere else. There's a lot of groups of assholes like these or even dumber, just waiting to be shaken up.

- Yeah, let them be like these guys! It's been a lot of fun! - Ail applauded him. -

- I hope they're tougher! - Diamond interjected with derision. - These nincompoops didn't last long, it's not funny like that.

- Come on, let's take on the next ones with one hand behind our backs. - Tom suggested animatedly. -

         And he had already found the fun part of it, getting enthusiastic nods from the rest of his friends.

-At this rate, there won't be any more of this kind of slum tomorrow. - Sapphire laughed, pushing aside a couple of half-broken chairs. -

-It's been a long time since I've had so much fun. True, and we've also given them a crash course in civility and civility. - Nephrite added with moderation, retrieving his jacket that was still impeccably folded in a corner of the devastated place. - I'm sure the girls are bored out of their minds, poor things! They don't know how to have a good time on their own.

The bar owner was astonished and above all horrified by the extensive damage. But the boys scraped together some money to pay him for the damage. Ail, in a relaxed and even conciliatory tone, said to the fat guy who was looking at him from the floor, rather distressed and with part of a mug in his mouth.

-I warned you, moderate your nerves or you'll have problems.

- This must be repeated," - Sapphire said with visible enthusiasm. –

They all nodded unanimously. So, with loud laughter and throwing their arms around each other's shoulders, they left the premises in search of new amusements. As Roy said, there were still plenty of gangs of hooligans to shake up. And both he and his friends wanted to keep the party going. So, they went from bar to bar and drank a few too many beers. As a result, they caught a "good horn" and in the wee hours of the morning they returned to their hotels. They went to bed amidst songs from their times at the Soul and Time Corner, finishing off the evening with a classic from one of their favorite singers from their training days

***I see me with you and all the things you do***

***Keep turning 'round and 'round in my mind***

***Forget the weather, we should always be together***

***And any other thought is unkind***

***To have you with me, I would swim the seven seas***

***To have you as my guide and my light***

***My love is a flame that burns in your name***

***We'll be together***

***We'll be together tonight (together)***

***We'll be together, yeah (together)***

***We'll be together, yeah (together)***

***We'll be together, yeah (together)***

***I see you with me and all I want to be***

***Is dancing here with you in my arms***

***Forget the weather, we should always be together***

***I'll always be a slave to your charms***

***To have you with me, I would swim the seven seas***

***To have you as my guide and my light***

***My love is a flame that burns in your name***

***We'll be together***

***We'll be together tonight (together)***

***We'll be together, yeah (together)***

***We'll be together, yeah (together)***

***We'll be together, yeah (together)***

***Call me baby***

***You can call me anything you want***

***Call me baby***

***Call me, call me***

***I see you with me and baby makes three***

***I see me with you and all the things we do***

***Forget the weather, we should always be together***

***I need you as my guide and my light***

***My love is a flame that burns in your name***

***We'll be together***

***We'll be together tonight (together)***

***We'll be together (together)***

***We'll be together (together)***

***We'll be together (together)***

***We'll be together (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together, together (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together, yeah (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***If you ever need somebody (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***Call my baby (why don't you call me?) (together) (we'll be together tonight)***

***We'll be together (why don't you call me?)***

**(Sting. We'll be together. Credit to the artist)**

           And at last, they were able to settle down a bit and get ready to sleep and wake up refreshed, (if that was possible), on the big day. None of them even guessed at the fun the girls were having. For their part, the sailors finally arrived at their hotel. When Minako entered her room Artemis was waiting for her. The cat asked her.

- How did you enjoy yourselves?

- Wonderful, I really want to make a career as an idol and come here more often. -The excited, but already exhausted young lady replied. -

-Well, I'm sure you'll make it. - Her interlocutor agreed who, now more seriously, commented. - I have made inquiries. I know where she is.

-I hope she and her baby are still well. - The girl sighed. -

-As far as I know, yes, they are. - The cat affirmed who declared to say goodbye. - Well, I must get back to Luna. She'll be suspicious if I'm late.

Her friend nodded; Artemis left stealthily. She was left thinking about her friend. That was enough for her, she could not travel to California to see her again, but at least, if she had found happiness and enjoyed a quiet life, it was more than enough. Meanwhile, in Usagi and Mamoru's room, the young woman received a call on her intercom.

- Yes... Ah, it's you... very good. Yes... You say you've been investigating again? Okay. Will you send us a report? Thank you very much.

Usagi cut the communication and her partner gave her an inquisitive look, then she narrated the conversation. Mamoru sat on the bed thoughtfully and spoke.

-I don't like this. I don't think we should let it go on.

-Give her time. Deep down I understand her. It's natural, I would do the same in her place. - Her interlocutor hastened to reply. -

-You, as Usagi Tsukino, as well as me as Mamoru Chiba, maybe. But as the Neo Queen Serenity and the Neo King Endymion of Crystal Tokyo, we know perfectly well what our duty is. And we gave them a direct order. If we allow disobedience, no matter how much we understand the facts, everything we are working for could fall apart. Especially after what happened with the arrival of that Leval from the future.

-I know..." - the young woman mused, sitting down next to him, and adding regretfully. - That's why I don't want them to continue any further. Let's give them a little more time. Let's wait. And if that report confirms what I fear, then we will act. But not before we have finished our task.

-You're right, that's true. - Mamoru agreed. - This can wait, after these weddings I guess we'll have to prepare for others. Even if it takes some time.

- And all that before we can get married ourselves. - Usagi sighed hugging her partner. - It's such a tiresome thing!

-Be patient Usako, everything will come. Things here may not be as they should be, but for the sake of the outcome of the story, we must be careful. I wish so too, but we still have a few years of hard work and a lot of fine-tuning to do...

The girl nodded and the two left the conversation to dedicate a few kisses and caresses to each other while she whispered to her boyfriend in a honeyed voice.

-At least we can do this....

The rest of the sailors also rested. Both Rei and Ami were very happy about their respective roles in the next day's ceremony. The priestess was thinking in turn about Usagi's words. Despite being a joke that had a lot of truth. What was wrong with Yuuichirou? She herself wasn't sure of her feelings for the boy, or maybe she was and that was what frightened her...? She knew the implications, and her friend's teasing could mean a lot of things. Was she encouraging her?

-I don't think so. - She sighed: - "After all, she is Queen Serenity. Or will be! And we her guardians, with vows and obligations to fulfill....

            She couldn't help but feel a little sad at these reflections. So, she decided to put those thoughts aside and concentrate on the next day's event, saying to herself....

-The important thing is that Cooan and her sisters are very happy. They still have a lot of things to do.

Ami was at her computer. She was going over all the details of the ceremony to make sure they were carried out correctly. She was also fine-tuning to study for her English test. She wanted to get the highest score possible. Maybe that way she would be able to go on exchange to a prestigious American university.

- I can't wait to get there! Besides, I would be able to see Bertie-Chan more often... At least for the next few years. Now she'll be happy, I hope the joy lasts for her and Roy for a long time, they deserve it! So do the rest of the sisters and our friends. From what little I know; their number will soon increase....

          Finally, tired, she turned off the device and decided to sleep. She would have to get up early...Makoto still remembered some of the stores, the windows of luxurious and sophisticated Madison Avenue coffee shops that caught her attention. She wanted to take as many ideas as she could to shape them into her own business. And, although she didn't want to think about it, she was a little anxious about Minako. She was not unaware that her companion had crossed the line a couple of times with her inquiries. Venus even confessed to her that she had gone to see that girl and her son! She sighed. The only thing she hoped was that her friend would forget all about it. And then there was him, so handsome, with that brown hair. Too bad he was already in company. Besides, even if he had been available, she simply couldn't. It wasn't supposed to happen that way.

-At least I have the chance to focus on my business. That will be my dream come true. And in time, my friend Petz and Sapphire will also get married. Then I hope they will have children and they will all come together to taste my cakes. And he...well, I wish him to be very happy too...however I feel that, in another world, in another life, possibly in another story, we were both together. But here and now is not our time... What can we do!

            She smiled with a look of sadness and thought it would be better to sleep. The next day she had to be fresh. As for the girlfriends and their friends, already in that strip tease place, they were entering dangerously hot waters...

**START**