Minako and Naizen clinked wine goblets, filled with an expensive Pinot Noir that Naizen had splurged on. For the occasion, he said. I want our first date to be completely memorable.
After they toasted, Naizen snaked his arm around her elbow, ending their toast to the evening with the traditional first sip. Minako giggled becomingly after they were done. A perfect prelude to a perfect evening, she said happily.
With the most beautiful woman in Crystal Tokyo, that is, Naizen said with a wolfish grin.
Oh, am I? Minako said, flirting prettily and folding her hands under her chin. She made a goofy expression and batted her eyelids at him several times for the effect.
Naizen laughed. Of course you are, my dear. A real knock-out. In fact, do you know who you remind me of?
Whos that? Minako said, moving her hand to support her head, while flaring her long blond hair out to the side. She knew how womanly and feminine it looked when her hair flared that way.
Sailor Venus.
Only years of acting saved Minako from dropping her rapt and lovely smile.
You know, one of those goddesses that live up in the palace? Naizen said, mistaking her momentary pause for something entirely different.
Oh, I know of them, Minako said, trying to keep her voice light. So youve seen them?
Once, in the far off distance I thought I saw Sailor Venus. She was shining like a star, even from where I was standing. She had spun gold for hair. Truly, no mere human could have that level of beauty, Naizen said, gesticulating with his hand as he talked.
Oh, really? Minako said, a little sharply.
Not that youre not drop dead gorgeous, Minako, dont get me wrong! Theres an appeal to you that a Sailor Soldier would never have, Naizen said, smiling sweetly at her. More wine? he asked, holding up the bottle.
Please, Minako said. She could drink half the bottle now. And what is it I have?
Naizen paused to think about it a minute. Youre real, he said softly. A real woman. Someone I could get to know, spend time with. Talk about real life situations with. Not someone whos life is complicated by magic and royalty. I could see myself sharing my dreams with you, Naizen said, reaching for her hand.
Minako stared.
Listen to me! Getting all intimate like this on our first date. Sorry, Minako. I dont mean to scare you, Naizen said anxiously.
No, Minako said quietly. Actually that sounds wonderful.
She looked down intently, hoping that maybe he wouldnt see her start to cry.
