7Delicate
Chapter 7 Is It Too Soon To Do This Yet
Relena
Dorothy did not allow me to go home and mope alone by myself and is now lecturing me endlessly in my bedroom, about how pathetic I was for being all worried about Trowa.
"You're the one who didn't want to talk about it!" she bellowed at me. "And now you're the one who's acting all clingy and paranoid just because he decided to fly off to space? Let him do what he wants or tell him exactly what you want,"
"I don't know what I want," I admitted in defeat.
Dorothy rolled her eyes in exasperation. "Well, based from all your whining, you clearly want him."
"I mean, yeah but, I'm scared. I don't understand why?"
Suddenly, my phone lit up, revealing that I was getting a call from no less than Trowa himself.
"Sorry, Dorothy, I have to take this," I said, as I headed inside the bathroom.
"Hi," he said as I picked up his call. "Did I wake you up?"
"No," I replied. "What's up?"
"I just landed here in L3 and I'm on my way to where the circus is."
"Ok, that's good to know. I'll let you catch some rest for now. Bye!" I said, still a bit pissed for him leaving like that. I was in no mood to talk much.
But, before I could even end his call, he said,"Hey, wait,"
"Yes?"
"Your call earlier, it seemed like you wanted to tell me something. I have time now, wanna share?" he said.
There was that familiar lightness in his voice that somehow eased all my irritation. I always felt better after talking to him. He was a genuinely good listener. And this invitation now, from him was so tempting that I chose to gave in.
"I might have new donors for the terraforming project,"
"That's awesome! But, why do I hear worry in your voice?" He asked.
Even on the phone, he reads me so well. I might even go ahead and assume, he knows I'm irritated at him for suddenly going to L3 and is trying to win me back by talking to me.
"It's the Romefeller Foundation." I said blankly.
"So, that's why Dorothy visited?" He asked.
"Yeah,"
"And you're bothered by these?" He continued to probe.
"I don't know if I could trust them or what their conditions might be. We have always been on opposing sides. But, a part of me, wants to give them the benefit of the doubt. See if maybe, I could offer a real good compromise that would benefit both parties." I said.
I could hear the smile in his voice, even before he said, "spoken like a true diplomat,"
"What are you saying?" I asked, not sure whether he understood what I just said.
"I'm saying, you can do it. Go and turn the Romefellers to your side." He said.
I couldn't help but smile. He was right. I am worried but truly, I am hopeful and delighted to know that the Romefeller Foundation was interested in the terraforming project. And hearing, Trowa's words further cemented my confidence and somehow eased my worries.
He really has this soothing, calming effect on me. I am often drowned out in my stresses and tension and yet when I talk to him, his conviction that I can accomplish everything just seems to catapult me into being productive and persuasive. It made me miss him more.
"I wish you're here," I just wasn't able to hide what I was feeling anymore.
"I'll be back soon." He replied. "I won't keep you for long. You should be sleeping by now."
"Yes, thank you for calling." I replied.
"Call you again tomorrow, bye,"
I hung up the phone and sunk down onto the bathroom floor. Oh, how I miss him. When did I become so clingy like this?
Trowa
Cathy squealed in excitement, as she saw me enter the circus office. This is where the whole gang meets, before a series of really big shows. Everyone looked surprised as I smiled and greeted everyone.
"Trowa!" Cathy squealed as she enveloped me in a really tight hug. "So, nice of you to be back in time for our big show,"
I smiled uncomfortably and glanced at our ringmaster. 'Am I even fit enough to do even one routine?'
The ringmaster smiled and said, "I'm sure a few appearances wouldn't hurt, but you must at least practice once."
Cathy squealed even louder upon hearing the ringmaster's approval. I smiled at him and mouthed my thanks. Doing a few routines would sure clear my head and ease all the tension that had built up from past events.
I must admit, next to Cathy, I am getting a little rusty. She whips out her knives so effortlessly well and with a new danger to it that even I got a little nervous about my body parts being intact. We also did some aerial routines together and thank goodness to my regular gym visits back in Brussels, I managed to keep up with Cathy's pace.
"Not bad, for a couple of years with zero practice," Cathy remarked in a teasing manner. "But, I'm glad you decided to visit. Do you plan on staying for long?"
"Maybe not,"
"I thought so!" Cathy cried, as she inched closer to me. "So, tell me about the blonde princess that keeps you away from the circus,"
I glanced at her, raising my eyebrows in question.
"Don't play innocent with me lover boy." She teased some more. "Whenever we phone or video call, you suspiciously know a lot about foreign affairs and peace policies. I don't even need to watch the news."
Have I been subconsciously talking about Relena that much?
"You're not the only one with infiltrator skills apparently lil brother," Cathy said, noticing how I have been silent.
"Relena's fine." Was all I managed to answer.
"Ha! I caught ya! That statement is loaded with a lot of things you're not sharing,"
I rolled my eyes in annoyance. My sister is not making it easy for me to not think about Relena.
"We talk, we drink, she vents, I listen."
"Awww you should have invited her to meet everyone," Cathy remarked as she playfully messed with my hair as she stood up to leave. "Nice practice today, though. See you tomorrow, good night!"
Relena
My brother and Noin decided to attend the meeting with the Romefeller foundation. It was actually a relief that they were present as they have been really involved in the project more intensively that I am. They were able to really present valuable insights to further persuade the already very captivated group to invest in the terraforming project. Apart from their initial proposed investment, my brother have even managed for them to make a large donation in the climactic research technologies, Milliardo is currently working on.
Dorothy was all smiles as she presided over the whole meeting and up to the point where we signed the documents formalising the agreements made during the meeting.
"We are glad that we get to forge a new connection with you, Relena. We are impressed by your tenacity and passion for the terraforming project. We hope to be continually updated with the improvements via Milliardo and Noin. Thank you." Count Fredrich, the current head of the foundation said as he shook hands with Relena before the whole group was about to leave.
"I am beyond flattered from your kind words and great enthusiasm and belief in the project. We will work hard. Thank you."
Dorothy and I exchanged happy and proud glances as we led the group onto their respective rides. I felt a warm touch onto my right shoulder only to glance up and see Noin's soft smile. Beside her, my brother was looking at me as if he was about to say something.
But, it was Noin who spoke,"we are so glad you're back, Relena. This meeting was really something we did not thought possible, but it worked out pretty well."
I could only smile at her kind words. Dorothy's hands were suddenly on my shoulders and said," Relena's dedication on these project really impressed the foundation! I'm sure this is just the beginning of Romefeller's love affair with you, our great vice foreign minister!"
Dorothy was all giddy as she swayed her way to the next room to pick up her things. That was the opening my brother took to finally address me.
"You were amazing back there, Relena." Were his short but sweet words. I immediately ran up to him and embraced him. I am still after all his little sister and even with those few words he could make everything better.
Everything seems to be falling into place, but still I feel a certain kind of sadness inside me. When did I become so attached to him? I couldn't deny it to myself anymore. Every time I have some sort of news happening, good or bad, I immediately want to share it with him.
"Ugh! Why did he suddenly decide to fly off to space!" I grumbled out loud.
I sighed helplessly, knowing that no matter how much I grumble, it won't do anything. And then I had this sudden idea, if he won't come to me, maybe I could come to him?
Trowa
The crowd erupted in loud cheers and applause as Cathy and I finished our first number, Cathy's knife throwing really improved a lot and she did it with so much precision that fans of the circus really went wild.
"If I hadn't known better, I would think you were really trying to hit me," I commented as we were exiting the centerstage.
"Nah, I've forgiven you for choosing love over us haha!" She quickly retorted. "But, you better bring her soon, we're your family, we should meet her!"
I rolled my eyes and said, "I told you there is nothing between us—"
"Yet. What so you're waiting for her? Geez, men this days, so afraid to make the first move."
"What? I am not, it's not like that." I shrugged, pissed for her insistence on this subject.
"Then what are you waiting for? Life is short my dear brother. You gotta seize every moment."
I just looked at her, smiled and shook my head. I wish I could tell her that it was that easy but I don't want to add pressure to the already busy and stressful life of a certain vice foreign minister. But, it seems like we've already crossed a line that both us were not yet ready to.
Not that I am not ready to commit, but I definitely did not want to push her. I cannot deny that she is special and that I enjoy spending time with her and that she occupies my mind most of the time. But, I sense so much apprehension on her part and that's what bothers me. Why does she seem so stressed about what had happened?
Relena
After the successful meeting with the Romefellers, I thought I'd see less of Dorothy but I was wrong. The next day, she came barging in my office and sat there and watched me work.
"Aren't you supposed to be with the Romefellers? Can I do anything for you?" I asked, uncomfortable with having someone watching me while I tackle different documents for the whole day.
"Why do you seem so busy? Lets get out and go shopping! You won't finish that huge pile of documents today," she said.
"I'd love to accompany you, but I'm afraid I have to finish this whole pile today, I've got a conference to attend tomorrow in L3."
"L3? Isn't that where Trowa is?" She said, as she smiled knowingly. "Are you planning on going after him?"
"What? No." I denied.
"Classic Relena. Anything and anywhere for the one she loves," she teased, as she put out her phone and typed. "A symposium on the updated laws on aeronautical expositions? Sounds boring!"
"I was invited and I'm really interested on those so I would know more about the laws on aeronautical expositions." I tried to sound as convincing as possible.
Dorothy was still smiling teasingly. "Say hi to him for me!"
Relena
The conference proved to be really boring. My mind easily drifted to anywhere but the topics. I was feeling really anxious. Even my secretary was surprised that I chose to attend this symposium which was at the bottom of her list of priorities. But, felt that it would be highly appreciated by the L3 officials.
But, I couldn't lie to myself, I know what I came here for. I was back to my old ways. I want something, I go after it. But, also, a part of me is whispering, that 'girls do not chase, they are chased'. What if it freaks him out? He was all calm and everything that's happened must have been normal for him. Or maybe, that's what's he was waiting for? What if I am just a one-time thing for him? And he made sure to keep his distance so I wouldn't get any ideas?
"Fuck it!" I cried, and noticed people staring at me. Shit, I might have said that out loud. I smiled in apology as I excused myself to go to the powder room.
I spritzed some water to my face to calm myself down. I am starting to feel this was a bad idea. But, I already booked my ticket to the circus show tonight. And, we're friends still, right? Friends can go see each other and visit and watch their gigs, right?
I asked my driver to wait on the parking lot as I walked towards the circus tent alone. I tried to dress as inconspicuously as possible, as to not draw that much attention. I wore jeans and a t-shirt and popped on a jacket with hood, just in case, somebody notices.
It felt good to be able to squeeze in activities like this once in a while in my schedule that usually consisted of meetings, meetings and meetings. Watching the circus was something I've been wanting to do for a long time, especially if I get to see him perform.
I patiently waited until the knife throwing spectacle was announced. I know that he does that with his sister, Catherine. I squinted hard as soon as the duo emerged. Catherine waved and the crowd went wild, she looked amazing. But, her partner, it wasn't the guy I was hoping to see.
'Hmmm, maybe he wasn't able to practice," I thought to myself, already getting bummed and hoping he'll appear onto the coming routines.
Routine after routine has passed and there was no sign of him. Maybe, they did not let him perform, he'd just arrived, he might have been too late to practice.
I debated to myself whether I would go and approach his sister. And what ask her about him? Does she even know who I am? And if she does, why would I even look for him? This is proving to be a failed attempt at, I don't know, seeing him? Reconnecting with him?
"Miss Relena, is that you?" a voice called my name and I looked up from my seat and saw Cathy a few rows in front of me.
I stood up and smiled at her, acknowledging her. She jogged up to my seat and excitedly held my hand.
"Oh my God, you watched our show!" she squealed in delight. "I am so honoured!"
"It was amazing! Everyone was so good and it was really entertaining." I said, smiling back at her.
"I know you're a very busy person, we feel so honoured with you dropping by and watching us! Trowa would be so bummed hahahaha!" she said as she laughed.
"Excuse me?" I said, after hearing Trowa's name.
"He left just this morning, said he suddenly got a new mission and needed to be back in Brussels. Which I thought was just a lame excuse coz he misses you so badly hahaha!" Catherine blabbered as she continued laughing.
A wild blush crept up my cheeks. 'Trowa misses me?'
I felt so self-conscious that I couldn't look at her.
"Ooops, sorry Miss Relena, I did not mean to tease you. It's just so funny, I kept bugging him to invite you to watch our show but look, turns out you really want to watch!" Catherine talked again.
"Does he not want me to watch?" I had to ask, maybe he doesn't want me here.
"Nooo," Catherine shook her head softly. "I think he's just shy, maybe he doesn't think you'd be interested, you got all these meetings and conferences to be in. But, I told him you're human too and it wouldn't hurt for you to have fun sometimes, am I right?"
I smiled and nodded. Catherine was such a warm person. I felt really relieved talking to her, her being chatty somehow calmed my nerves.
Suddenly, my phone vibrated from my pocket. It was Trowa.
"Sorry, I need to take this," I said to Catherine.
"Sure, I wouldn't want to disturb you any further. Thanks again for dropping by!" she said, as she wento on her way to talk to other audiences.
I swallowed hard, as I took Trowa's call. My plan failed, now he's back on Earth and I'm here in L3 stuck in a week-long boring symposium.
"Hey," I said, as I answered.
"Hi, are you busy? I was wondering if we could meet at our usual place?" he said.
Of course, he's back in Brussels, back to our routine, back to our normal thing. How could I have not guessed that's just that? And here I am, all the way up in L3, hoping to surprise him and sweep him off his feet, great Relena, just great.
"I'm afraid, I cannot meet with you," I replied. "I'm in a conference in L3. Sorry, bye."
I hung up and turned my phone off. I cannot bear this, I was so stupid to think we could be more than what we were. I wasn't contented with what we had, which was already great.
I must tell myself that for guys, sex means sex and nothing more. Guys, do it all the time and with no attachments, no hang-ups; to them hook-ups are just hook-ups.
Trowa
It was so unusual for her to just hang up like that. And where was she? In L3?
I was still trying to make sense of things when my phone started ringing. It was my sister.
"Cathy, what's up?"
"Are you back on Earth?" she asked.
"Yeah, I just arrived at my apartment. Missed me already? Or you're just bored?"
Cathy's laugh almost broke my ears. "You wouldn't believe who came to watch our show!"
"What? Who? And what's so funny?" I asked, she was sounding so triumphant, I don't get it.
"You come scrambling back to Earth to go see your princess, when she's actually here, haha!" Cathy jeered.
"You mean, Relena, went to the circus?!" I gasped.
"Uh huh, too bad for you huh? Told you so, she said she had a great time!"
I was not really paying attention to my sister right now. Relena is in L3 and watched the circus? Could it be? But, why did she just hang up on me? What is going on?
I tried dialling her number again, but it seems like she turned her phone off. What is happening?
To be continued…..