Fudge Ripple #18, Chocolate #23 , Pistachio #3 with a Malt
Author: Blossomdreams
Rating: PG-13
Challenge: Fudge Ripple #18 (sacrifice), Chocolate #23 (in)security, Pistachio #3 (ceremony)
Story Arc: Fixed Dreams (tentative title)
Title: Dates
Toppings: Malt (Easter Egg from nathskywalker: "thanks for making me feel like a 12 year old" - Chuck )
Summary: Tsukino cordially invites you to attend the wedding of Miki, her spoiled little sister, and Kojiro, the man she gave up for her, at the Dawson Hotel. Please enjoy the celebration.
Word count: 2,365
Notes: This is my anon piece. I wonder if anyone guessed it was me. XD Well this is a character I wrote for a fanfic, but thought she would be good in this intro piece. It's also a chance for me to use my first malt and new flavor! Since I'm thinking of a timeline this takes place April 15, 2013. Enjoy! Comments are welcome!
Tsukino pulled a brush slowly through her hair. She tried to muster up the emotion needed for the day, but she couldn’t find it. It was her sister, Miki, wedding and she wasn’t happy. It could be because of the things she had to give up to help with the wedding preparations. Another reason could be that the groom was Kojiro, her love interest since school. Tsukino made a plan to ask him out when Miki revealed her crush on him too. Tsukino stepped back and let Miki ask Kojiro out instead. It hurt, but Tsukino was used to it.
She gave up many things for Miki. Her toys, clothes, schoolbooks, location for college, her ideal job, and the list goes on and on. When Miki left for a school out of town, Tsukino transferred to her ideal school. Her ideal job stayed on the backburner, but Tsukino could live with that. Well, she repeated that mantra each day before work. She could always sketch clothes in her cubicle during lunch.
Tsukino sighed softly and placed the brush down at the sound of the doorbell. “Coming,” she walked to the intercom and pressed the button. “Yes?”
“HI! TSUKI! Me and Mina are here, can we come up?”
“Sure thing, let me buzz you in.” Tsukino pressed the button and leaned against the wall. She wanted a smoke, but her mother would kill if she smelled like smoke. Drinking was out of the question as well.
This day becomes better and better. Tsukino sighed looking at her manicure nails. It was Miki’s requirement to participate in the wedding. The thought of the binder filled with requirements made Tsukino’s head hurt. The knock on the door took Tsukino away from her thoughts.
“Coming,” she walked over and opened the door. Rumiko pulled Tsukino in a tight hug. “Hi Tsuki!”
Tsukino giggled returning the hug. “Hi Rumiko, hi Minako,”
Minako waved walking inside the apartment. “Hello Tsukino, I see you’re not in your dress yet.”
Rumiko pulled back, taking in Tsukino’s t-shirt and shorts. “Hey, how come you’re not dressed yet?”
“Because I hate that dress, Miki knows I hate wearing one.” Tsukino said closing the door.
“I know, but her requirements is dresses no pants or anything similar.” Rumiko said walking to Tsukino’s room.
“Those requirements…” Minako trailed off glaring at the binder sitting on Tsukino’s bookshelf.
Tsukino sighed. “I know, I know, but it was that or I couldn’t go to the wedding.”
“Didn’t you spend days helping her plan it and set up the flowers and caterers?” Rumiko asked.
“I did, but even I’m not excluded from the rules.” Tsukino took a seat back in front of her mirror. Minako walked to the closet, muttering under her breath. Rumiko giggled as Tsukino smiled. Minako’s anger over Miki’s wedding demands continued to amuse her.
Tsukino turned back to the mirror, running the brush through her hair. “I’m trying to get ready, but I’m torn about going.”
“It sucks that she’s marrying Kojiro, but that was a while ago. You can always find someone else. That’s what weddings are for!” Rumiko happily exclaimed.
“A wedding is an event, not a speed dating meeting. If you meet someone there, then that’s nice. If you don’t then there are more places to meet the mate of your choice.” Minako flipped through a few clothes. She frowned pulling out an outfit. “You’re still wearing this?”
Tsukino turned around, her cheeks heating up at the clothing. “Y-Yes, you know I’m better as a boy! I mean it’s easier to go around dressed like that. I don’t have to worry about anything and it’s great.”
“But you’re so pretty,” Rumiko said.
Tsukino scoffed. “I’m not Miki though,”
“You’re still comparing yourself to her. You know you’re pretty and nicer too. Why hide it behind these sweat pants and baggy t-shirts?” Minako asked.
Tsukino placed the brush down with a soft sigh. “It just makes life easier. Always have, always will, that won’t change.” She stood up ignoring Rumiko’s pout on her way to the closet. She stood next to Minako, reaching in for the dress. Tsukino pulled out the pale blue bridesmaid dress with a white trim. She walked back over to the mirror, putting the dress against her body.
Tsukino didn’t see the beauty Rumiko and Minako mentioned before. All she saw was the same girl, trying to compete with her prettier and talented sister. Trying the key word at this point since Tsukino didn’t care about it. She sighed moving the dress away. “I hate when she makes me do this. It’s like she’s trying to say ‘look at my ugly sister.”
“Not true, you’re pretty and you know it.” Rumiko said.
Minako nodded in agreement. “Miki has to rely on make up artists to make her look good. You don’t,”
“Thank you for your support, but I still feel that’s what she’s going for.” Tsukino turned to Minako and Rumiko and held up the dress. “Want to help me?”
Rumiko smiled. “That’s what we’re here for.”
Minako nodded in agreement. Tsukino was thankful for Rumiko and Minako’s help.
*~*~*
Tsukino stared out the window, trying not to fidget in her heels. Rumiko retold the story of her latest art exhibit and the future project in the works. Minako concentrated on the road, keeping an eye out for the hotel. Tsukino pushed down the anxiety of meeting Kojiro again in a few minutes.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t make it to the art exhibit. I had a cake tasting with Miki and my parents.” Tsukino said.
Rumiko waved it away. “Don’t worry about it. I know you were busy, so it’s ok. Besides, I know that Miki wouldn’t let you get away even for a few hours.”
“I don’t see why not. You stayed with her during the dress fitting.” Minako said.
“I know, but my mom wouldn’t let me get out of it. I just wish I could have seen it.” Tsukino muttered sadly.
Rumiko rubbed her shoulder reassuringly. “Don’t worry, I have some of my pieces left over so I can show you before they go off to the highest seller.”
“Thanks, so, what’s this new project you started?” Tsukino asked.
“It’s called Astrology. I’m going to paint Western astrological signs and the animals of the Chinese zodiac. I finished a few sketches, but it’s nothing I can reveal to the public yet.” Rumiko said.
“I would love to see them.” Tsukino said.
“Great, I can show you a couple of them after lunch this weekend. You can make it, right?” Rumiko asked.
Tsukino nodded. “Yeah now that the wedding is done my weekends are free once again.”
“Great, I have many to show you. I can’t wait.” Rumiko said.
Tsukino smiled. I’m glad I have my weekends free again.
“So, Tsuki, are you still sketching clothes?” Minako asked.
“Yes, but only when I have free time. I didn’t have time to do anything with the wedding preparations. I’m hoping to finish some sketches tomorrow.” Tsukino said.
“I hope so too. I love your sketches. It’s not too late to try make something from those designs.” Rumiko said.
“We know someone who is really good at making clothes. He could make one of your designs into a dress.” Minako said.
Tsukino shook her head dismissing the idea. “I don’t think so, but thanks for the offer.”
“Oh, please, Tsuki, just one, I know it will become a beautiful dress.” Rumiko pouted.
Tsukino relented at the look. “Okay, I guess he can use one of my designs.”
Rumiko cheered. “Yay, we’ll place the calls tomorrow. You’re going to love it.”
Tsukino smiled. “I look forward to it.”
“We’re here,” Minako announced, cutting the ignition.
A knot formed in the pit of Tsukino’s stomach. In a few short minutes, she would see Kojiro waiting at the altar for her sister. She didn’t like the sound of that. Tsukino swallowed the lump in her throat as she stepped out of the car. She looked up at the Dawson Hotel, one of the prestigious hotels in the area.
Rumiko whistled appreciatively. “Nice building, how many loans did you take out to rent it?”
“A couple I think I lost half of my salary with the flowers alone.” Tsukino said.
“What does Kojiro and Miki do again?” Minako asked.
“Well, Kojiro makes a good living as a manager over a computer company. Miki has her modeling career, so she makes a pretty good living as well.” Tsukino said.
“Sounds like a match made in heaven.” Minako murmured.
“Wow, you have been quite on today.” Rumiko said on their way to the hotel.
“Wait when the wedding starts.” Minako said.
Tsukino giggled walking over to the elevators. Maybe I can make it through this wedding.
*~*~*
“Couldn’t you wear the other flower?”
Of course, I could always be wrong. “Mom, I wore the flower Miki expressed in her requirements.”
Saya sighed. “Okay, but I still think the other flower looks best.” She smoothed down Tsukino’s dress and messed with her hair a bit.
“Mom, I dressed just fine.” Tsukino said.
“I know, but I want to make sure that no hair is out of place.” Saya adjusted the flower clip in Tsukino’s hair before going down to the jewelry. Tsukino felt like a kid again going through the daily check before school. She couldn’t get Saya to stop, she was anxious since that morning. Tsukino stayed still and let Saya finish her check.
Saya stepped back with a satisfied nod. “Very good, now you’re ready.”
“Thanks mom,” Tsukino smiled. Too bad, I’m not going to school.
“Tsuki! I’m surprised you followed the rules so carefully.” Miki walked in pulling the train on her dress behind her.
Tsukino’s jaw tightened along with her smile. “Well, they were very detailed Miki. It was hard not to follow.”
Miki smiled. “They had to be. I didn’t want any mistakes on my wedding.”
“I don’t think that will happen today. You look beautiful.” Tsukino said.
“Thank you. This is a custom-made dress by Salvatore Ricci. I’m so glad I was able to get him before my wedding. I can get him to make one for your wedding, if you like?” Miki said.
“Oh I don’t…”
“She has to find a husband first, then she can get the dress.” Saya said walking over to them.
“Yes mom, man first, dress second.” Tsukino said. Don’t get mad, don’t get mad.
“I know the man for Tsuki is out there. It’s just a matter of meeting him.” Miki said.
I did meet him, but I gave him to you. “I’m sure he’s out there somewhere. I just have to look, that’s all.” Tsukino said.
“He’s out there I know it.” Kenji walked into the room.
Tsukino smiled. “Thanks dad,”
Kenji returned it. “Anytime, now are we ready?”
“Yes, Tsukino is dressed and the bridesmaids are lined up outside. Time for the ceremony to start,” Miki adjusted her hair and smiled.
“Time for me to join the line,” Tsukino grabbed her bouquet. “Congrats Miki, I know you’ll be happy.”
“Thank you,” Miki said.
Tsukino flashed another smile before walking out the room. She walked down the hall rubbing the petals of the bouquet. Well that went better than planned. She ignored the feeling of dread at seeing Kojiro again. I can do this. I know I can.
*~*~*
The ceremony was beautiful. There were many people Tsukino didn’t know, but by the look on their faces they knew her. Tsukino kept a smile plastered on the entire time. She didn’t think Kojiro could look hotter than he did, but she was wrong. Kojiro’s low ponytail and his new glasses would be in her thoughts for a while. Miki walked down the aisle with their father looking beautiful than ever. She was happy for Miki and wished her a good life. It didn’t stop Tsukino feeling like the awkward little girl at school again. She couldn’t wait for the reception. It was a good thing she opted for the free bar.
*~*~*
“Well, that was the most plastic wedding I’ve seen in a while.” Minako sipped her champagne.
“Tsuki when you said no expense was spared, I thought you were using the saying. I didn’t know it was true.” Rumiko said.
“It was what Miki wanted, so we did it. I had to pull a few strings for many things, like the ice sculpture, but most of it wasn’t too hard to manage. I can’t thank Paul enough for doing the ice sculpture, thanks Miko.” Tsukino downed her second glass.
“It’s no problem. I know why he was so happy to do it now.” Rumiko said.
“He was more than eager to do it. I don’t blame him, with the amount we gave him I would jump at the chance too.” Tsukino said.
“Hey guys, nice wedding isn’t it?”
“Hi Kaori, yeah I feel it in my wallet every day.” Tsukino mumbled working on her third glass.
Kaori patted Tsukino’s shoulder. “There, there you’ll make it back, I know it.”
“Thanks for the encouragement. I hope to make it back by the time I retire.” Tsukino grumbled.
Kaori laughed. “Have another glass; you’ll forget it in no time.”
“That’s the plan.” Tsukino lifted her glass in the air before taking another drink. For all her complaining Tsukino knew she would do it over again.
“Oh guys, I didn’t introduce you to my friend Kazu.” Kaori turned around calling for one of the guys by the seafood buffet. He walked over and took a seat next to Kaori.
Kaori tipped her glass. “Meet Kazu,”
Kazu waved. “Nice to meet you all,”
Minako nodded. “Nice to meet you,”
“What’s up?” Rumiko grinned.
Tsukino looked over her glass, giving a small wave. “Hi,”
Kazu grinned. “Hi, what’s your name?”
“Tsukino, I’m the bride’s sister,”
“I’m the best man,”
“So, what did you think of the wedding? Did you like it?”
“It was nice, did you help with it?”
“I funded most of it.”
Kazu smiled. “Then I think it’s great,”
Tsukino flushed lightly, looking in her glass. “T-Thank you,”
“I think the wedding got better.” Rumiko whispered.
Minako smirked and Kaori giggled. The rest of the reception looked promising.
Rating: PG-13
Challenge: Fudge Ripple #18 (sacrifice), Chocolate #23 (in)security, Pistachio #3 (ceremony)
Story Arc: Fixed Dreams (tentative title)
Title: Dates
Toppings: Malt (Easter Egg from nathskywalker: "thanks for making me feel like a 12 year old" - Chuck )
Summary: Tsukino cordially invites you to attend the wedding of Miki, her spoiled little sister, and Kojiro, the man she gave up for her, at the Dawson Hotel. Please enjoy the celebration.
Word count: 2,365
Notes: This is my anon piece. I wonder if anyone guessed it was me. XD Well this is a character I wrote for a fanfic, but thought she would be good in this intro piece. It's also a chance for me to use my first malt and new flavor! Since I'm thinking of a timeline this takes place April 15, 2013. Enjoy! Comments are welcome!
Tsukino pulled a brush slowly through her hair. She tried to muster up the emotion needed for the day, but she couldn’t find it. It was her sister, Miki, wedding and she wasn’t happy. It could be because of the things she had to give up to help with the wedding preparations. Another reason could be that the groom was Kojiro, her love interest since school. Tsukino made a plan to ask him out when Miki revealed her crush on him too. Tsukino stepped back and let Miki ask Kojiro out instead. It hurt, but Tsukino was used to it.
She gave up many things for Miki. Her toys, clothes, schoolbooks, location for college, her ideal job, and the list goes on and on. When Miki left for a school out of town, Tsukino transferred to her ideal school. Her ideal job stayed on the backburner, but Tsukino could live with that. Well, she repeated that mantra each day before work. She could always sketch clothes in her cubicle during lunch.
Tsukino sighed softly and placed the brush down at the sound of the doorbell. “Coming,” she walked to the intercom and pressed the button. “Yes?”
“HI! TSUKI! Me and Mina are here, can we come up?”
“Sure thing, let me buzz you in.” Tsukino pressed the button and leaned against the wall. She wanted a smoke, but her mother would kill if she smelled like smoke. Drinking was out of the question as well.
This day becomes better and better. Tsukino sighed looking at her manicure nails. It was Miki’s requirement to participate in the wedding. The thought of the binder filled with requirements made Tsukino’s head hurt. The knock on the door took Tsukino away from her thoughts.
“Coming,” she walked over and opened the door. Rumiko pulled Tsukino in a tight hug. “Hi Tsuki!”
Tsukino giggled returning the hug. “Hi Rumiko, hi Minako,”
Minako waved walking inside the apartment. “Hello Tsukino, I see you’re not in your dress yet.”
Rumiko pulled back, taking in Tsukino’s t-shirt and shorts. “Hey, how come you’re not dressed yet?”
“Because I hate that dress, Miki knows I hate wearing one.” Tsukino said closing the door.
“I know, but her requirements is dresses no pants or anything similar.” Rumiko said walking to Tsukino’s room.
“Those requirements…” Minako trailed off glaring at the binder sitting on Tsukino’s bookshelf.
Tsukino sighed. “I know, I know, but it was that or I couldn’t go to the wedding.”
“Didn’t you spend days helping her plan it and set up the flowers and caterers?” Rumiko asked.
“I did, but even I’m not excluded from the rules.” Tsukino took a seat back in front of her mirror. Minako walked to the closet, muttering under her breath. Rumiko giggled as Tsukino smiled. Minako’s anger over Miki’s wedding demands continued to amuse her.
Tsukino turned back to the mirror, running the brush through her hair. “I’m trying to get ready, but I’m torn about going.”
“It sucks that she’s marrying Kojiro, but that was a while ago. You can always find someone else. That’s what weddings are for!” Rumiko happily exclaimed.
“A wedding is an event, not a speed dating meeting. If you meet someone there, then that’s nice. If you don’t then there are more places to meet the mate of your choice.” Minako flipped through a few clothes. She frowned pulling out an outfit. “You’re still wearing this?”
Tsukino turned around, her cheeks heating up at the clothing. “Y-Yes, you know I’m better as a boy! I mean it’s easier to go around dressed like that. I don’t have to worry about anything and it’s great.”
“But you’re so pretty,” Rumiko said.
Tsukino scoffed. “I’m not Miki though,”
“You’re still comparing yourself to her. You know you’re pretty and nicer too. Why hide it behind these sweat pants and baggy t-shirts?” Minako asked.
Tsukino placed the brush down with a soft sigh. “It just makes life easier. Always have, always will, that won’t change.” She stood up ignoring Rumiko’s pout on her way to the closet. She stood next to Minako, reaching in for the dress. Tsukino pulled out the pale blue bridesmaid dress with a white trim. She walked back over to the mirror, putting the dress against her body.
Tsukino didn’t see the beauty Rumiko and Minako mentioned before. All she saw was the same girl, trying to compete with her prettier and talented sister. Trying the key word at this point since Tsukino didn’t care about it. She sighed moving the dress away. “I hate when she makes me do this. It’s like she’s trying to say ‘look at my ugly sister.”
“Not true, you’re pretty and you know it.” Rumiko said.
Minako nodded in agreement. “Miki has to rely on make up artists to make her look good. You don’t,”
“Thank you for your support, but I still feel that’s what she’s going for.” Tsukino turned to Minako and Rumiko and held up the dress. “Want to help me?”
Rumiko smiled. “That’s what we’re here for.”
Minako nodded in agreement. Tsukino was thankful for Rumiko and Minako’s help.
*~*~*
Tsukino stared out the window, trying not to fidget in her heels. Rumiko retold the story of her latest art exhibit and the future project in the works. Minako concentrated on the road, keeping an eye out for the hotel. Tsukino pushed down the anxiety of meeting Kojiro again in a few minutes.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t make it to the art exhibit. I had a cake tasting with Miki and my parents.” Tsukino said.
Rumiko waved it away. “Don’t worry about it. I know you were busy, so it’s ok. Besides, I know that Miki wouldn’t let you get away even for a few hours.”
“I don’t see why not. You stayed with her during the dress fitting.” Minako said.
“I know, but my mom wouldn’t let me get out of it. I just wish I could have seen it.” Tsukino muttered sadly.
Rumiko rubbed her shoulder reassuringly. “Don’t worry, I have some of my pieces left over so I can show you before they go off to the highest seller.”
“Thanks, so, what’s this new project you started?” Tsukino asked.
“It’s called Astrology. I’m going to paint Western astrological signs and the animals of the Chinese zodiac. I finished a few sketches, but it’s nothing I can reveal to the public yet.” Rumiko said.
“I would love to see them.” Tsukino said.
“Great, I can show you a couple of them after lunch this weekend. You can make it, right?” Rumiko asked.
Tsukino nodded. “Yeah now that the wedding is done my weekends are free once again.”
“Great, I have many to show you. I can’t wait.” Rumiko said.
Tsukino smiled. I’m glad I have my weekends free again.
“So, Tsuki, are you still sketching clothes?” Minako asked.
“Yes, but only when I have free time. I didn’t have time to do anything with the wedding preparations. I’m hoping to finish some sketches tomorrow.” Tsukino said.
“I hope so too. I love your sketches. It’s not too late to try make something from those designs.” Rumiko said.
“We know someone who is really good at making clothes. He could make one of your designs into a dress.” Minako said.
Tsukino shook her head dismissing the idea. “I don’t think so, but thanks for the offer.”
“Oh, please, Tsuki, just one, I know it will become a beautiful dress.” Rumiko pouted.
Tsukino relented at the look. “Okay, I guess he can use one of my designs.”
Rumiko cheered. “Yay, we’ll place the calls tomorrow. You’re going to love it.”
Tsukino smiled. “I look forward to it.”
“We’re here,” Minako announced, cutting the ignition.
A knot formed in the pit of Tsukino’s stomach. In a few short minutes, she would see Kojiro waiting at the altar for her sister. She didn’t like the sound of that. Tsukino swallowed the lump in her throat as she stepped out of the car. She looked up at the Dawson Hotel, one of the prestigious hotels in the area.
Rumiko whistled appreciatively. “Nice building, how many loans did you take out to rent it?”
“A couple I think I lost half of my salary with the flowers alone.” Tsukino said.
“What does Kojiro and Miki do again?” Minako asked.
“Well, Kojiro makes a good living as a manager over a computer company. Miki has her modeling career, so she makes a pretty good living as well.” Tsukino said.
“Sounds like a match made in heaven.” Minako murmured.
“Wow, you have been quite on today.” Rumiko said on their way to the hotel.
“Wait when the wedding starts.” Minako said.
Tsukino giggled walking over to the elevators. Maybe I can make it through this wedding.
*~*~*
“Couldn’t you wear the other flower?”
Of course, I could always be wrong. “Mom, I wore the flower Miki expressed in her requirements.”
Saya sighed. “Okay, but I still think the other flower looks best.” She smoothed down Tsukino’s dress and messed with her hair a bit.
“Mom, I dressed just fine.” Tsukino said.
“I know, but I want to make sure that no hair is out of place.” Saya adjusted the flower clip in Tsukino’s hair before going down to the jewelry. Tsukino felt like a kid again going through the daily check before school. She couldn’t get Saya to stop, she was anxious since that morning. Tsukino stayed still and let Saya finish her check.
Saya stepped back with a satisfied nod. “Very good, now you’re ready.”
“Thanks mom,” Tsukino smiled. Too bad, I’m not going to school.
“Tsuki! I’m surprised you followed the rules so carefully.” Miki walked in pulling the train on her dress behind her.
Tsukino’s jaw tightened along with her smile. “Well, they were very detailed Miki. It was hard not to follow.”
Miki smiled. “They had to be. I didn’t want any mistakes on my wedding.”
“I don’t think that will happen today. You look beautiful.” Tsukino said.
“Thank you. This is a custom-made dress by Salvatore Ricci. I’m so glad I was able to get him before my wedding. I can get him to make one for your wedding, if you like?” Miki said.
“Oh I don’t…”
“She has to find a husband first, then she can get the dress.” Saya said walking over to them.
“Yes mom, man first, dress second.” Tsukino said. Don’t get mad, don’t get mad.
“I know the man for Tsuki is out there. It’s just a matter of meeting him.” Miki said.
I did meet him, but I gave him to you. “I’m sure he’s out there somewhere. I just have to look, that’s all.” Tsukino said.
“He’s out there I know it.” Kenji walked into the room.
Tsukino smiled. “Thanks dad,”
Kenji returned it. “Anytime, now are we ready?”
“Yes, Tsukino is dressed and the bridesmaids are lined up outside. Time for the ceremony to start,” Miki adjusted her hair and smiled.
“Time for me to join the line,” Tsukino grabbed her bouquet. “Congrats Miki, I know you’ll be happy.”
“Thank you,” Miki said.
Tsukino flashed another smile before walking out the room. She walked down the hall rubbing the petals of the bouquet. Well that went better than planned. She ignored the feeling of dread at seeing Kojiro again. I can do this. I know I can.
*~*~*
The ceremony was beautiful. There were many people Tsukino didn’t know, but by the look on their faces they knew her. Tsukino kept a smile plastered on the entire time. She didn’t think Kojiro could look hotter than he did, but she was wrong. Kojiro’s low ponytail and his new glasses would be in her thoughts for a while. Miki walked down the aisle with their father looking beautiful than ever. She was happy for Miki and wished her a good life. It didn’t stop Tsukino feeling like the awkward little girl at school again. She couldn’t wait for the reception. It was a good thing she opted for the free bar.
*~*~*
“Well, that was the most plastic wedding I’ve seen in a while.” Minako sipped her champagne.
“Tsuki when you said no expense was spared, I thought you were using the saying. I didn’t know it was true.” Rumiko said.
“It was what Miki wanted, so we did it. I had to pull a few strings for many things, like the ice sculpture, but most of it wasn’t too hard to manage. I can’t thank Paul enough for doing the ice sculpture, thanks Miko.” Tsukino downed her second glass.
“It’s no problem. I know why he was so happy to do it now.” Rumiko said.
“He was more than eager to do it. I don’t blame him, with the amount we gave him I would jump at the chance too.” Tsukino said.
“Hey guys, nice wedding isn’t it?”
“Hi Kaori, yeah I feel it in my wallet every day.” Tsukino mumbled working on her third glass.
Kaori patted Tsukino’s shoulder. “There, there you’ll make it back, I know it.”
“Thanks for the encouragement. I hope to make it back by the time I retire.” Tsukino grumbled.
Kaori laughed. “Have another glass; you’ll forget it in no time.”
“That’s the plan.” Tsukino lifted her glass in the air before taking another drink. For all her complaining Tsukino knew she would do it over again.
“Oh guys, I didn’t introduce you to my friend Kazu.” Kaori turned around calling for one of the guys by the seafood buffet. He walked over and took a seat next to Kaori.
Kaori tipped her glass. “Meet Kazu,”
Kazu waved. “Nice to meet you all,”
Minako nodded. “Nice to meet you,”
“What’s up?” Rumiko grinned.
Tsukino looked over her glass, giving a small wave. “Hi,”
Kazu grinned. “Hi, what’s your name?”
“Tsukino, I’m the bride’s sister,”
“I’m the best man,”
“So, what did you think of the wedding? Did you like it?”
“It was nice, did you help with it?”
“I funded most of it.”
Kazu smiled. “Then I think it’s great,”
Tsukino flushed lightly, looking in her glass. “T-Thank you,”
“I think the wedding got better.” Rumiko whispered.
Minako smirked and Kaori giggled. The rest of the reception looked promising.