Mia took Diego to a nearby park in Kurain. There were lots of grassy hills and white flowers there. Mia and Diego were sitting on a hill, staring at the moon.

"I used to come here a lot as a child. Kind of took me away from reality."

"What reality?"

"My mother's disappearance... responsibility. I was supposed to become the next master. It's one of the reasons I left. The main family and the branch family will always fight for the power of master. My mother and Aunt Morgan constantly fought. I don't want that kind of relationship with Maya. She's my only sister, and I love her. It's better this way."

"I see. I'm glad you moved to the city, Kitten. Otherwise, I wouldn't have met you. I think you made the right decision."

Mia smiled.

"I think so, too."

Diego swung an arm around Mia and pulled her closer.

"You know... I think this might be fate at work."

"What do you mean, Diego?"

"Meant to be... old belief... forget I said anything. It's cheesy."

Mia cut him off with a kiss.

"Sometimes, cheesiness is a good thing."

* * *

Maya started drawing a picture in her room. She was drawing Diego and Mia. It made her giggle. She wrote four lines next to the actual picture:

"Searching far and wide,
I've been trying to find,
The reason why I love you,
But it cannot be found."

Maya smiled. It was a song she sang with Mia when they were children. They both loved the song. Diego walked in.

"Hi, Diego!"

"Hey, Maya!"

"Where's my sis?"

"She went to start packing up. She wanted a little privacy. What are you up to?"

"Just drawing a picture."

Diego cocked his head and saw the image. He laughed.

"You know... I think I've heard that before..."

"You mean the song?"

"Yes."

"It's a song Mia and I sang a lot as children."

"What's it called?"

"'Forever and Always'."

"Sounds sweet."

"We both love singing it."

Diego then remembered he heard Mia singing it in the shower. But, he didn't want to tell Maya he saw her sister naked.

"I'm sure you do."

"Diego, did you enjoy your visit?"

"I did very much. Kurain has an interesting history."

"Oh yes. There are many important items."

"Like the Sacred Urn?"

"Exactly. The folding screen, the urn, the necklace..."

Diego then jumped.

"N-Necklace?"

"Yeah. My aunt had this heart shaped necklace with a bottle in the middle."

"I-I see. What was important about this necklace?"

"I'm not quite sure. But, my aunt said it would determine the future of the Fey clan."

Diego was suddenly interested.

"T-That's interesting..."

"I know! I wonder why..."

"Well, whatever it is... I don't really think it will do much good anymore..."

"Why not?"

"I haven't seen it around."

"Come to think of it, neither have I. It disappeared a few years ago... she has been trying to find it for years."

"I'm sure she has..."

* * *

Mia started packing when she stumbled across an important piece of evidence. When she went to grab the picture of her and Diego, she knocked over a perfume bottle in the back of the nightstand. She looked behind and found a glass science tube. It was plugged with a cork. It contained a clear liquid. Mia picked it up and read the label. "Opitrioxide".

Mia and Diego were back on the train, but this time, they were on their way back from Kurain Village. Maya was to visit Mia in two weeks. It would seem like forever to the sisters, though. Mia stared out the window and sighed. Diego seemed to be indulged in the newspaper he was reading. Mia started singing 'Forever and Always' very softly. Little did she know Diego was listening.

"And all the songs we used to sing,
You should know they meant everything,
I'll love you to the bitter end,
I love you forever and always."

Diego smiled. He thought Mia had a beautiful singing voice. But, he couldn't tell her at that moment. He wanted to hear more. So, he let her finish singing the song. She paused after she finished. Then, her eyes filled up with tears. She didn't want to let them fall.

"What's wrong?" Diego asked without even glancing away from his newspaper. This caught Mia by surprise. She couldn't hide anything from him.

"I don't want this case to tear us apart."

"What do you mean?"

"We're talking about Dahlia here. Who's to say she won't pull some twisted trick on us? And another thing. I just... I can't believe what my aunt did."

Diego folded his paper, placed it on the seat next to him, stood up, and sat down next to Mia. He took hold of her right hand, and brushed the fringe out of her eye with his free hand. He smiled.

"As long as I'm around, I'll make sure that witch doesn't hurt you. As for your aunt, I understand..."

"It's such a slap in the face..."

"You know... you need a vacation... and I don't mean a vacation to your hometown. I mean a bona fide get-away-from-everything-else vacation."

Mia laughed. She smiled back at Diego.

"Thanks, Diego... I wish I could."

"Why can't you?"

"I can't afford a vacation right now."

"I'll take you, then."

"Do you have any idea how great that sounds to me?"

"Well, I keep my promises."

Mia clung onto Diego. He stroked her hair.

"I love you... so much..."

"I love you, too, Kitten."

She looked up into his eyes. He moved her fringe again, remembering when he saw her just coming out of the shower. When that happened, he couldn't keep his eyes off of her face. He thought Mia looked so beautiful. Diego always found her beautiful no matter what, but that particular moment would always stick out in his mind.

"You know... you really have beautiful eyes."

"Huh?"

"Your eyes... they're gorgeous."

"They're brown."

"They're not like a normal brown, though."

"So, what's an abnormal brown?"

"They're like a different brown... like warm, melted chocolate just drizzled into your eyes..."

Mia grinned. Her heart melted, but Diego's just started beating faster.

Really Diego? Why did you do that? That was so cheesy!

"Ugh... more cheesiness..."

"Diego..."

"J-Just forget that comme-..."

Mia kissed him to keep him from finishing his sentence. Her arms wrapped around his neck while his hands remained at her sides. She moaned. After what seemed like hours, they broke. She put her index finger in front of his lips.

"Hey. Didn't I tell you already? Sometimes, cheesiness is a good thing."

"T-That...."

"Ah, ah, ah. I still think you don't understand the lesson."

"Teach me."

She kissed him for a few seconds and pulled away.

"Occasional cheesiness can get you places."

"Like where?"

"My heart... and eventually... your lips might somehow find their way to mine."

At this point, their noses were grazing each other. Their voices were no louder than a whisper.

"Could you give me directions?"

"I can do better."

"How so?"

"I can take you directly there."

Then, they began to make out on the train.

* * *

Mia called Maya when she arrived home.

"So, how was your trip back, Sis?"

"Not too bad..."

"Did Diego keep you company?"

"Well, of course he did."

"I mean KEEP you COMPANY..."

"Maya!"

"It's a legitimate question!"

"If you're asking if we made out our something like that..."

"Oh, so you FINALLY got the hint!"

"I plead the fifth."

"So, that's a yes."

"Grr..."

"Heh heh! Oh man... Aunt Morgan is tearing up the house."

"What do you mean?"

"She said something about looking for pictures."

"Still?!"

"I guess."

"Oh wow."

"Sis... I've been thinking..."

"About?"

"When will I meet my Diego?"

"When the time is right."

"And when is the time right?"

"That's for you to decide."

"Really?"

"Maya... is there a boy you like?"

"What? No! How could I?"

"You're thirteen. It's normal."

"I mean... there aren't really any boys in the village..."

"You've got a point there..."

"But..."

"But?"

"I don't know... I just feel like something is missing..."

"Maya, one day you'll meet a boy who loves you for who you are and appreciates you. He'll think you're beautiful in every way, and he'll treat you the way you deserve to be treated. It just takes time. It might be difficult at times, but it's worth it in the end."

"Thanks, Sis... I love you."

"I love you, too. I've been thinking of the best gifts I've ever gotten."

"Oh? What's the best?"

"The best gift ever is having you for a sister."

"We've got a break in, Sir!"

"What?!"

"Someone's trying to steal the sample!"

"Nooooo!"

"What should we do?!"

"Secure all exits at once! Go with Operation Mouse Trap!"

"Yes, Sir!"

Officer Matt Bauer immediately ran for the control box. He turned the key to lock all of the exits in the jewel factory. He then input a code to bring down all the gates inside the factory to prevent the thief from escaping. Guards on every floor of the factory drew out their guns and extended their arms out, ready to attack. On the fifth floor, Officer Remus Irving was on the edge. It was his first day as a police officer. Then, from behind, he felt a sharp pain in his back. He screamed at the top of his lungs. Stab wound. Remus fell to the ground. Behind him stood an angelic looking creature with firey red hair.

"Goodbye, Mr. Policeman."

* * *

Diego was getting dressed for the day. He had his pants and his belt was fastened. He just started buttoning his shirt when he saw a new story appear on the morning news. A handsome male news anchor introduced the story.

"Early around two o'clock this morning, there was a break-in at the Hawthorne Jewelry Factory. The thief is still at large. Live at the scene is field reporter Janet Briggs."

Diego was suddenly interested in the case. Hawthorne Jewely Factory? It had to pertain to their case.

"I'm here with the owner of Hawthorne Jewelry, Jared Hawthorne, as well as two officers that were on duty at the time of the incident. Mr. Hawthorne, can you please tell me what you know about the break-in?"

"Well, I can't tell you ALL the details, obviously, but what I CAN tell you is we believe the perpetrator was after a certain sample we were manufacturing. As for what kind of sample it was, I cannot say."

"Now, Mr. Hawthorne, a few years ago, your business was caught up in a poisoning case. Do you think this break-in could be related to that case in any way?"

Jared Hawthorne gritted his teeth, clearly frustrated with the question. His gold tooth was visible. A fire arose within Diego.

"I will not take anymore questions."

Jared walked away. The reporter looked confused. Diego would have normally laughed at her clear confusion, but he was too angry at Hawthorne. The reporter went about her business and interviewed one of the officers.

"Now, Officer, what do you know about the thief?"

"Well, I only got a quick glance at the thief. With that, they disappeared off into the night. This thief is clearly a pro. All I saw was red... just red..."

"Red what?"

"It looked like hair... but, I cannot say whether it was hair or a shirt or what."

"Thank you, Officer."

Diego immediately picked up the phone, shirt still unbuttoned. He dialed a number. The person he called picked up.

"Mia, get to the office as soon as you can. Hurry!"

* * *

Mia sat in her office, waiting for Diego. He burst through the door. Mia jumped. Diego strutted towards her desk as quickly as he could. He threw down a file and placed his hands on Mia's desk.

"Did you watch the news this morning?"

"No, I didn't get a chance. Why?"

Diego then explained the case to Mia. Her heart sank.

"Wait a minute..."

"What?"

Mia took out the glass vile she found behind the nightstand.

"Opitrioxide?"

"Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Diego?"

"This... this is what the thief wanted. We must dust it for prints."

"We can't have the police get ahold of it."

"I see... then, we'll have to find some other way."

"Diego, it's the poison... I'm sure of it."

"The thief..."

"It's Dahlia."

"Sounds about right... but, what's her motive."

"That I don't know yet... but, I'm pretty sure it's Dahlia."

"Kitten, we're starting to tie up some loose ends."

Mia lied in her bed, writing in her diary. She bit the end of her pen as she thought of what to write next. There was a knock on her door. She wondered who it could be. Then, she got up and opened it. Outside the door stood her neighbor, Darren Roberts. He was a well-built man who women swooned over. He had brown hair in the style of a fauxhawk and deep blue eyes. His hands were in the pockets of his slightly ripped jeans. Darren was a sweet guy, and he was also the lead guitarist for a rock band called "Veracity".

"Hey, Darren!"

"Hey, Mia. I need your help."

"Oh, sure. What's up?"

"Well... it's... Karen..."

Karen was Darren's girlfriend. Mia never liked her. She always thought Darren could do much better.

"Come on in."

Darren strided in. Mia watched him. He looked depressed. He was wearing his usual leather cuffs and his padlock necklace, but he was missing his ring. Mia had a slight guess as to what happened.

"Sit down, Darren."

Darren sat on the futon nervously. Mia sat down next to him and placed her hand on top of his in concern. She truly cared about him and hated seeing him unhappy.

"What's wrong?"

"Well... our band is probably going to be signed this week."

"That's great! Congratulations!"

"Thanks. But... Karen doesn't approve. She thinks I should be more concerned about her and get a white collar job."

"Darren..."

"I can't give this up... she's a strong woman and all, which I like... but... I feel like she doesn't appreciate me. What do I do?"

"Darren, if Karen can't see your side of the story, then she doesn't appreciate you. If she can't accept your choices, then she doesn't even care. I know. Believe me."

"You're right... wait, what happened with you?"

Mia bit her lip.

"Mia..."

"It was an old boyfriend..."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

"... I've been keeping it in for a long time... his name was Paul. He didn't appreciate me at all. He ended up cheating in the end. He always thought he was smarter and superior... I couldn't stand him..."

"I'm sorry, Mia... I consider you one of my best friends. You certainly don't deserve to be treated that way. You're a kind person with a heart of gold. You deserve the best treatment."

"Thanks, Darren..."

Darren hugged Mia. She hugged back.

"Hey, you haven't met my boyfriend yet, have you?"

"No, I haven't. What's his name?"

"Diego."

"Lawyer?"

"Yep! He's a sweetie."

"I'm sure he is. Maybe I'll take you guys to dinner some day."

"Sounds good, but you're not paying!"

"Aww, why not?"

"Because that's dinner for three! No way!"

"Mia..."

"Don't make me feel bad!"

Darren chuckled. This is one of the things he loved about Mia Fey. Her sense of humor always got to him.

"So, wait... isn't Diego the guy who saved you from that creep?"

"Rodney? Yes."

"So, he was your..."

"Boyfriend? Yes."

"That's interesting. How's Maya?"

"She's fine. She's continuing her training and it's going pretty well so far."

"I'm glad to hear it."

Darren smiled. He had dimples, which Mia found adorable. She knew Darren would always be her friend no matter what.

* * *

"So, this Darren is your neighbor, eh?"

"Yes."

"Would I like him?"

"You'd love him, Diego."

The couple stood in Mia's office, discussing their evenings from the previous night.

"Just as long as he doesn't take my kitten..."

"Oh please. That won't happen. I love you too much..."

Diego grinned and gave Mia a peck on the lips.

"I love you, too, Kitten."

"A-HEEEEEEEM!!!!!"

Grossberg stood in the door again.

"What did I say?! PMS IS NOT OFF LIMITS!!!!!!"

"Mr. Grossberg. PDA. Not PMS. PMS is something that occurs within females once a month. PDA equals public display of affection."

"Ahh, yes, okay. Ahh... the days of my youth... like the scent of a fresh lemon, you see..."

Great...

"Hey, Darren! What's up, Man?!"

Darren walked up to the stage where they were holding band practice. He jumped up on the stage, walked towards the back, put his guitar case down, and took the guitar out. It was an Ibanez RG350MB guitar. He put on the guitar, plugged it into the amp, and turned the amp on. He started fiddling with the guitar pick.

"Listen... I wanna do a special song tonight, Ben."

Ben Roberts was Darren's brother. He looked similar to Darren. Ben was the older brother. His hair was medium length, and his eyes were hazel.

"Which song, bro?"

"Forever and Always. My neighbor is coming with her boyfriend tonight."

"Psh. 'My neighbor'. You mean Mia?"

"... Yeah."

"Why didn't you just call her that? Look, why that song? Are you trying to get her back?"

"No. Look, things were different back then."

"I know that. Different occupation, different age, different dreams..."

"Nah, I still think the dreams are similar."

"Well, one thing will always remain, and that is the fact that you two only broke up because you didn't want to hurt her."

"It's a dangerous job being a cop around here."

"What about this new boyfriend?"

"By the sound of it, I'd like him."

"Oh, that Mia Fey... she was one fine lady."

"Yeah. So, can we play the song?"

"Of course."

* * *

Diego and Mia were enjoying themselves at the concert.

"So, what do you think?"

"I think they are a great band, Kitten."

Mia smiled at Diego and gave him a quick peck on the lips. Then, shockingly, Darren spoke into the microphone instead of Ben.

"This song is dedicated to Mia."

Mia was surprised.

"Wh-What...?"

Then, they started to play 'Forever and Always'.

"Give me a compass; I am lost,
Looking for my place at all costs,
Don't know where I'm supposed to be,
Show the way; become part of me."

They continued to play the song. Tears stung Mia's eyes. She ran off. She didn't know where she was running. All she wanted to do was run away from it all. Diego called out to her.

"M-Mia...!"

However, she didn't respond to Diego's call. At this point, she was in a hallway. She leaned back against the wall and panted as she cried. Diego found Mia and pinned her up against the wall.

"Mia! What's wrong?"

"I can't take it!"

"Take what?!"

"The pain of it all!"

"Hold on! Slow down and just tell me what's wrong."

Mia told Diego about Darren's time as a police officer and how she dated him.

"One day, he was pursuing an armed robber. The robber shot him. Darren was hospitalized. He broke up with me because he didn't want to cause me any more pain."

"I'm sorry, Kitten..."

"That song... with Darren playing it... it just brings back memories. I'm afraid."

"Of what?"

"What if someone tries to take you away from me?"

"Don't worry. I'll always be here for you."

"Darren told me the same thing, and then he was shot."

"Mia..."

"If you were gone, I don't know what I'd do. I'd be so lost. I'd... I don't kn-..."

Diego cut her off by passionately kissing her. Mia was still pinned up against the wall. Diego ran both of his hands up the back of her head and through her hair. She moaned and wrapped her arms around his neck. When they broke, Mia's eyes were still closed. Diego's eyelids were lowered.

"Is that a bit reassuring?"

"... I think I need more reassurance."

They started to kiss again. When they broke after a while, they heard the crowd shouting for an encore.

"We should head back in."

"Yeah."

"Oh my goodness! I remember Darren!"

It was a few days since the Veracity concert, and Mia was finally able to have a real phone conversation with Maya. They were talking during Mia's lunch break.

"Yeah. His band has gotten really good!"

"What does Diego think about him?"

"Well, he met him at the concert and thought he was a good guy, but I'm worried."

"Why?"

"Darren and I had this wonderful relationship, and I wonder if Diego is... well..."

"Jealous?"

"Not exactly jealous, but maybe upset with Darren."

"Well, he is attractive, that's for sure."

"Who? Diego or Darren?"

"Both! But, Darren would be more of my type."

"Maya, he's twelve years older than you."

"I know that! I'm just saying. He has spikey hair, he's sweet, and he is in a rock band!"

"Well, he was a cop when I dated him."

"Why did he decide to be in a band again?"

"He always loved music. He was part of the band even when we were dating. He stayed on the force even after we broke up. It only lasted six more months. He quit."

"Did he ask you out afterwards?"

"No. We both knew it wouldn't work. He was in a band, and if his band made it big, he would be on tour a lot. We both still love each other, but it won't work romantically."

"That's so sad..."

"Not really. I love Diego. I really do. That's why I have no regrets."

"Aww, that's sweet, Sis."

"Yeah. Excited for your visit in a couple of days?"

"Totally! Diego will be there, right?"

"Yes, he will, Maya. Speaking of which, my break is about over. I'll call you back after work, okay?"

"Okay, Sis! Bye!"

"Talk to you later, Maya. Bye."

She hung up the phone. Mia started to reminisce about her time with Darren. She thought of when he was shot in particular.

- One Year Earlier -

"This is Penguin 59! I am in pursuit of the suspected robber!"

"Ten-four, Sergeant! Can you get a plate number?"

Sergeant Darren Roberts told his captain the plate number of the car.

"That car belongs to Dahlia Hawthorne, Sergeant."

Darren's partner, Jack Wilburn, shook his head.

"Delinquents..."

"But, I can clearly see a man driving the car!"

"It was probably stolen!"

What if it wasn't?

"That's not the only possibility!"

"What do you mean?"

"Try thinking outside the box!"

"Oh please. We don't need to hear about your girlfriend's ethics now."

"Don't degrade them! It works!"

"Just concentrate on your pursuit!"

"Ten-four!"

The robber crashed into a nearby telephone pole. He quickly got out of the car. Darren pulled out his gun and made his way out of the car. Jack got out of the car as well, with his gun at the ready. Two other police cars pulled up.

"Freeze! We have you surrounded!"

"Hey, cop! What happens when you throw a bomb at a barrier?"

Without even waiting for an answer, the robber shot Darren on the right side of the chest.

"It blows a hole!"

Jack shot the robber. He fell to the ground immediately.

* * *

Mia was at her new apartment, studying. If she wanted to pass the bar, she would have to study as much as she could. Suddenly, her phone rang. She answered it.

"Hello?"

"Is this Mia Fey?"

"Yes. Who's calling?"

"I am Doctor Burt Clemens from All Saints Hospital. I think you should come down immediately."

Mia's heart sunk.

"Wh-What happened?"

"It seems your boyfriend has gotten into some... trouble at work."

"I'm on my way!"

Mia didn't even think. She grabbed her coat and rushed to the hospital. When she got there, she was greeted by Doctor Clemens.

"What happened?!"

"He was shot by an armed robber."

"Will he be okay?!"

"He is currently in critcal condition, but he'll be stable."

"Oh thank goodness!"

"He is currently rehabilitating from the surgery. You can see him in about ten minutes."

- Present Day -

Mia then thought of Diego and the feeling she had whenever he was even in the room. It was a warm feeling... a safe feeling. Diego was Mia's sanctuary. She would never forget their first kiss. The weight that lifted off her chest when she kissed him felt spectacular. Mia was so caught up in her reminiscence that she didn't even notice Mr. Grossberg standing in front of her desk.

"A-HEEEEEEM!"

"Ahh!"

"Day-dreaming, are we?"

"Mr. Grossberg! I'm so sorry! I was just remembering something!"

"Ahh, I see. Thinking of Diego?"

"S-Sir?"

"Well, I could see a big grin on your face clear as day."

Mia began to blush.

"W-Well..."

"Is that why your hair is shorter?"

"Wh-What?"

"Did you get a haircut to impress him?"

"No..."

"Ah. Well, in any case, you kids should play safe. Don't forget I'm not anti-STD."

Mia was stunned by Grossberg's lack of memorization skills.

At least he used different letters... and at least it has something to do with romance... in a way...

"Umm, Mr. Grossberg. It's actually PDA."

"Ahh, yes, now I remember! I'm not anti-PDA!"

Somehow, Mia thought Grossberg actually wanted to see her and Diego make out. Then, there was a knock on her open door. Diego stood in the doorway.

"Ahh, speak of the devil!"

"Excuse me, sir?"

"Well, get in there, m'boy! You ought to satisfy your lady!"

Mia's eyes grew wide.

That did not sound right...

Grossberg walked out of the office. Diego looked puzzled. He walked towards Mia, who stood up.

"What was that about?"

"Oh, he just approves of us... a bit too much..."

"Ahh, I see. So, he wants to see other people make out."

"Pretty much."

"Well, we can't destroy the old man's dreams, can we?"

"You mean..."

Diego cut her off with an extremely passionate kiss. He picked Mia up and placed her on her desk. She broke it off so she could speak.

"Why are we doing this?"

Diego gave a smug smile.

"Because we both know it's what you want."

He refused to let her speak by kissing her passionately again. She happily kissed him back. They didn't know the extent of Grossberg's interest. He had an associate take a picture.

The Grossberg Law Offices Award Ceremony was about to take place. Some awards dealt with legal skills while other did not. The ceremony took place in a small ballroom above the office. Diego and Mia sat at a table with the other office girls as well as a couple other men from the office. Grossberg stood on the stage that was set up for the occassion. The award was a trophy in the form of the scales of justice.

"Now, moving onto our next award, we will have Robert Hammond announce!"

Grossberg walked away from the podium as people applauded Hammond as he walked up.

"I first started working at this office about six years ago. I was nervous, but I worked hard and became who I am today. I won the award I am about to give. It is time to announce the winner of the award for "Most Promising Newcomer". The nominees are..."

There were two screens on the stage that showed a picture of each nominee as they were announced.

"Chad Evans... Janet Pochezski... Mia Fey... and Robert Wylry."

Applause filled the room as each nominee was announced.

"And the winner is... Mia Fey."

Mia was completely taken aback. She didn't expect to win. Diego smiled and applauded.

"Well, stand up and fetch your milk, Kitten."

Mia stood up and strided over to the stage, her long black dress flowing behind her with each step. She shook Hammond's hand and took her award. He whispered in her ear.

"Congratulations, Mia. It's speech time."

"What?!"

"Give a speech."

"O-Okay..."

Mia walked up to the podium.

"I-I don't know what to say! I am honored. I'd like to thank my family, friends, and colleagues for this award. Thank you, Mr. Grossberg for this opportunity. And, of course, I'd like to thank Diego who's been there for me ever since day one. Thank you!"

She walked off the stage with a flushed face. She took her seat again. Diego kissed her cheek.

"Congratulations, Kitten."

"But, why did they pick me?"

"Because you do fine work."

"But, I lost the Fawles case!"

"Nobody won that case. For you to take on such a case and to make so much progress with it your first time around, that's an accomplishment. Everyone can recognize it."

Mia smiled.

"Thanks, Diego."

"For what?"

"For being you."

The awards went on one by one. When Monica won the Office Gossip award, her and her friends went nuts.

"OH EMM GEE!!!! Totally?!"

"YOU DID IT, MONICA!"

"YEAH! Like, this is toooootally awesome!"

Mia laughed while Diego rolled his eyes. Mia also won an award that night for "Hottest Female Litigator", which made her really shy and embarrassed. When she was on the stage, she could only hear one phrase being shouted.

"OW OWWW!!!! GET UP THERE AND KISS YOUR HOTTIE OF A GIRLFRIEND, DIEGO!"

There was also an award for "Most Memorable Office Moment". The situation forever dubbed as "Rodney's Radical Love Attempt" (locking Mia in the closet) won that award. Diego ended up getting the MVP award. Mia was extremely proud of him. Tricia won an award for "Office Stylist", partly due to her forcing Mia into a hair salon. She was to announce the next award.

"Okay, so I'm, like, supposed to announce for one of these award things, so here I, like, go. Love is hard to find, especially when you're, like, a lawyer. A lot of romance takes place in the office, which is tooootally cute. Here are the nominees for "Cutest Couple"."

Mia's heart started beating faster as she eyed the two big screens on stage used to show the pictures.

"Jacob and Laura..."

A picture was then shown on the screen of Jacob and Laura holding hands in the hallway.

"Ian and Sandy..."

There was a picture of Ian leaned in towards Sandy in the office kitchenette. The audience "awwed" at each picture.

"Kevin and Kristen..."

In the picture, Kristen was seen kissing Kevin on the cheek.

"Bill and Wendy..."

The picture showed Bill and Wendy at the St. Patrick's Day party, slow dancing and smiling at each other.

"Diego and Mia..."

The picture shown was the one taken just a few days previously, with Mia sitting on the side of the desk. Her arms were wrapped around Diego's neck, and Diego's arms were wrapped around Mia's waist. The picture showed them happily kissing. It was when they were making out after Grossberg walked out of Mia's office. They heard people wolf-whistling and cheering. Of course, the girls at the table were going absolutely nuts.

"OW OWWWWWW! MIA'S GETTIN' SOME!!!!"

Mia was blushing a lot more than she did when she was in the bathroom with the girls at that party. She didn't know whether she should put down her head or cover her face with her hands. She opted for covering her face with her hands. Diego pulled his chair closer to her and put her in an embrace from the side. Mia threw her arms back down and grinned. There was a look of relief on her face. She bent her head down, still smiling. Diego kissed her cheek. The girls at the table "awwed".

"The winner is... of course, Diego and Mia."

The couple stood up and walked up to the stage. Diego took the trophy and shook Tricia's hand. Tricia then hugged Mia.

"Mia, you're so adorable."

"Thanks, Tricia..."

Diego put down the trophy on the podium. Before they knew it, the crowd was shouting one word.

"KISS! KISS! KISS! KISS! KISS! KISS! KISS!"

Mia looked into Diego's eyes and whispered to him.

"What do you think?"

"Are you up to it, Kitten?"

Mia walked so close to Diego that they were only a couple of centimeters apart.

"OWW OWWWWW!" shouted the girls.

"KISS! KISS! KISS!"

"I believe they're persistant, Kitten."

Mia bent her head down, thinking. Then, she made a decision.

"Oh, what the heck."

Before Diego could even think a single word, Mia placed her hand on the back of his head, effortlessly bringing his lips to hers. Diego kissed back and wrapped his arms around her waist. The crowd was cheering, but Diego and Mia could barely hear them. The kiss ended, and Diego smirked.

"I thought you were shy."

"I am. But, I forgot everything once I got closer to you."

* * *

Darren was driving, on his way to band practice that night. He saw a car pulled over. Next to the car, he saw two people conversing. One was a woman with firey red hair and the other was a man with a hood up. What really caught Darren's eye was the car itself. He remembered where he saw it. That was the car the robber used when he was shot. Once at practice, he called the precinct.

"Hello, this is Sergeant Darren Roberts speaking."

"Sergeant? You don't work here anymore, pal!"

"Yes, I realize this, but I need to come back to my duties for something in particular."

"And that is?"

"I need to do some background checks on the owner of the car the robber used when I was shot."

"What are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking there's more to this case than we thought."

"Can you close your eyes and think,
Who is the weakest link,
'Cause my memory fails me,
Forgot everything I knew

The fog starts breaking apart,
It's all clear in my heart."

"CUT! Guys! I have big news!"

"What is it, Darren?"

"Nook and Cranny Records wants to sign us!"

"Seriously?! They're huge!"

"I know!"

Veracity was overjoyed. They celebrated by going to a local restaurant. In the middle of the celebration, Darren went outside. He let out a heavy sigh and leaned his back against the wall. Then, he walked to one of the steps of the concrete stairs and sat down.

"What are we having tonight, Darren?"

Darren turned towards the speaker. It was his brother, Ben. Darren couldn't bring himself to answer.

"Y'know... you were never the same after that shot."

"Why do you say that? Just because Mia and I broke up?"

"No. It's now an extremely rare occasion to see your eyes light up like they used to. Living in the past isn't gonna help you get through this, little bro."

Ben sat down next to his brother.

"Then, what do I do?"

"There's only one thing you CAN do. Try your hardest to create a better future for yourself and those around you."

"I feel so bad for Mia..."

"Why?"

"She has to deal with a lot... she's already been through so much."

"Do you still love her?"

Darren paused before answering.

"I'll always love her, Ben. Just not always romantically. I mean, she's a beautiful woman and everything... it's just... I don't know..."

Ben nodded.

"Well, I'll tell you one thing. That girl has her hands full... with what I heard about the Terry Fawles case... awful. Who would have guessed Dahlia was alive all this time?"

"... What did you say?"

"Dahlia Hawthorne. The red-headed girl that went missing years ago."

Then, something clicked in Darren's head. Dahlia Hawthorne... the owner of the car that the robber used.

"I was right!"

Darren stood up and started running for his car.

"Where are you going?!"

"Sorry, Ben! Tell the guys I'm sorry, but it's important!"

* * *

Diego was reading newspaper articles in his office. They were all about robberies. He circled one sentence in particular about the jewelry factory robbery: "The intentions of the robbery are unknown". He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. Suddenly, Mia burst into his office.

"Ha...! Don't like to knock anymore?"

"Oh, shush before I pin you to the ground and bite your lip."

"You call that punishment?"

"... Okay, just shut up, or I'll lace your coffee with milk. Better?"

"Ahh.... unfortunately, yes."

"Anyway, I was looking up a certain case from last year..."

"This is... the case that Darren was shot during?"

"Y-Yeah... Anyway, look at where the robbery occured."

"... A pharmaceutical company..."

"Exactly. Now, what could you aquire from such a company?"

"Drugs..."

"Lethal amounts, perhaps?"

"Yes, but what does this have to do with the jewelry robbery?"

"Hmm... that I don't know yet, but I know this isn't coincidence."

"What makes you so sure?"

"It was Dahlia's car being driven by the robber last year."

"Maybe..."

"They were in cahoots?"

Diego stood up and lightly placed his hands on Mia's waist.

"Kitten, I love how you think. Now we just need..."

Mia placed her palms on Diego's chest.

"Evidence... and a solid link to the jewelry robbery."

"I'm sure we can figure something out."

They were about to kiss when Mr. Grossberg ran into the room.

"Ahh! You two! Come with me!"

"What's the matter?!"

"It's of great urgency! Hurry!"

They ran behind him. He led them to his office. He slammed the door.

"What is it, Mr. Grossberg?!" Mia shouted.

"Oh, it's terrible!"

"What?!"

"I... I... I'm afraid... I'm out of lemons!!!!!!!"

The couple stood in their places, deadpanned. They couldn't believe that's why he called them in there.

"Is that why we're here?"

"Well, that and the small matter of me finding a certain file you might be interested in..."

"Show us, Mr. Grossberg!"

"M-Mia...! Wait...!"

Mia ran as fast as she could from Grossberg's office. She didn't want to go back. She just wanted to run as fast as she could from everything. In her hand was the file that Grossberg just gave them. As Mia ran, she cried. She slammed her office door, strided over to her desk, and sat under it in the small cubicle so no one could see her. She curled her legs up to her face and cried, still clutching the file in her left hand. Diego opened the door gently, walked in, and closed it behind him. He heard a sob from under the desk. He moved the chair so he could see Mia huddled under the desk, and then he kneeled down to her level.

"Hey, Kitten..."

She didn't respond.

"Wanna talk?"

Again, no response. She just cried her heart out while staring through Diego. Then, she closed her eyes, letting the tears roll out. Diego then opted for Plan B. He didn't talk. All he did was slightly outstretch his hand to her. She took the hint, placed her hand into his, climbed out from under the desk, and placed the file on her chair. Diego sat on the desk, and invited Mia to sit down next to him. She sat next to him. Diego turned her body towards him and laid her legs across his lap. He curled his arm around her and started playing with her hair.

"I realize you're upset..."

"Y-You don't u-understand..."

"Enlighten me, my dear."

"That file... i-it has e-everything related to my family in it... w-well... everything that's known. I-I didn't even k-know some of it..."

Diego nodded his head in understanding. It's easy to see why Mia was so upset. She finally found out about the truth of her father's death as well as other aspects of her family she was never told.

"Your father..."

"They knew each other, Diego..."

"It turns out I only had half of the story as well..."

"It makes sense. You only found out about the half your family was involved in."

"Put the pieces together, and it makes one corrupt story."

"I'm sick of it all... controversy... pain... betrayal..."

"It's all thanks to that witch and her father."

"You can kind of say it's ALL thanks to her father... that insidious man... he's the one who got my aunt pregnant, which brought a demon straight from Hell to this world."

"Ha...! You got me there... Jared Hawthorne... he hurt both of us, didn't he?"

"That coward... he POISONED my father..."

"As far as the law is concerned, that's not official... just another controversy."

"Along with the poisoned government officials."

"Which hurt my family."

"... I've gotta sink them both."

* * *

"Are you excited to visit tomorrow?"

"Totally, Sis! I'm almost finished packing!"

Mia called Maya later that night. She was laying on the futon with her legs curled up and her head on a pillow.

"Hey, Mia, I have a question."

"Shoot."

"Why do you sound so sad?"

"... Because I can't feign happiness."

"Why ARE you sad?"

Mia bit her lip. She had to tell Maya at some point, but she couldn't bring herself to tell her over the phone. Maya couldn't be told the news about her father like that.

"I can't tell you right now... I'll tell you tomorrow."

"Promise?"

"Promise."

"I FINALLY get to go to a place that has guys!"

"Oh, teenagers and their raging hormones..."

"Look who's talking, Miss I-Can't-Stop-Making-Out-With-My-Boyfriend!"

"H-Hey! I'm not teenager anymore!"

"So, you went through this stuff, too?"

"Of course!"

"Wait... was that the time when you were seventeen, and Aunt Morgan caught you sneaking out with that guy?"

Mia laughed.

"Maybe..."

"You never told me what you did that night."

"What, you want to know?"

"Duh! Of course I wanna know!"

Mia sighed.

"Alright, alright. His name was Jeff. We had a thing back then, so we snuck out in the middle of the night and just basically made out on the hill..."

Mia could feel herself turning red.

"Aww, how cute! I remember you looked scared when Aunt Morgan dragged Jeff by the ear into the Meditation Hall. But, when you started walking towards your room, you were grinning."

"It was the first real make out session I had. I still remember it clearly. It's not as great as a make out session with Diego, though."

"Oh, so you ADMIT you make out with Diego!"

This comment caused Mia to blush again.

"W-Well, what do you think I do with him, Maya? Shake hands?"

Maya laughed.

"No, I guess not. Hey, Sis, I gotta go. I have to finish packing and stuff. I'll see you tomorrow!"

"Okay. Love you!"

"Love you, too, Sis! Bye!"

"Bye."

Mia hung up the phone. All the talk about making out with guys really made Mia want Diego to be there with her. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. She stood up and opened the door. Once she saw Diego standing there, she grabbed his tie and pulled his face down to hers, forcing him into a passionate kiss. Mia let out a higher pitched moan as they moved into the apartment. Diego closed the door by kicking it. They moved all the way to the futon, where Mia suddenly found herself laying beneath Diego's body as the passionate make out continued. Mia broke the kiss to catch her breath. Diego took the opportunity to speak. He smirked.

"What did I do right?"

"Just being you."

"Ha...! I originally came here with the intention of dropping off a few papers, but they can wait, can't they?"

"Oh yes. They can DEFINITELY wait. The only thing I want to see now would be fireworks... as in the fireworks I'll see when kissing you."

"You're in quite a... frisky mood tonight, aren't you?"

"Something wrong with that?"

"Definitely not."

Mia got her wish of continuing to make out with Diego. Little did she know at the time that the next day wouldn't be quite as fun.

"Siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiis!"

"Hey, Maya!"

The two sisters hugged as Mia picked up Maya from the train station. Mia kneeled down to Maya's level. They broke the hug, and Mia kept her hands on Maya's shoulders.

"How are you?"

"I'm great! How 'bout you, Sis?"

"I'm okay... You hungry?"

"I'm STARVED!"

"Burgers?"

"You know it!"

"Okay. We'll hit the usual joint."

"Yay!!!"

Mia and Maya went to the usual burger joint. Maya ordered a double malt milkshake for dessert. Mia didn't order dessert. She folded her hands on the table and darted her eyes around.

"What's wrong, Sis?"

Mia felt a lump in her throat, but she begged herself not to cry. She had to stay strong for Maya.

"Not here..."

Maya nodded in understanding, but she was extremely worried. She knew Mia was hurt, and it was eating her up inside. She hated it when Mia was upset. Then, a boy walked by. He had spikey hair and a blue t-shirt. He looked to be about twenty. Maya's heart skipped a beat. Mia noticed her sister staring at the boy.

"Sight-seeing?"

Maya turned her head towards Mia and blushed.

"Ha ha! It's about time I got you to turn red. You've been getting me to do that all the time."

"Well, I can't help it if it's easy to make you blush!"

"Okay. Let's test this out once and for all. I'll try to make you blush, and you'll try to make me blush. We'll see who wins."

"Deal!"

Mia loved playing games with Maya. Hopefully, Mia will be able to get Maya back for all those times Maya made her blush. There wasn't too much for Mia to work with since Maya hadn't had a lot of experience with guys due to the lack of men in Kurain. Mia knew how to make it work, though. Who knows? Maybe there was more about Maya that Mia didn't know.

"You first, Sis!"

"Okay. I noticed that boy had spikey hair, which is something you like."

"Yeah..."

Maya's cheeks only turned a TIIIIIIINY bit redder.

"Does he remind you of anyone?"

"Not really... but, that's the thing..."

Bingo.

"What's the thing?"

Maya looked nervous. She immediately knew she shouldn't have said that.

"... Nngh..."

"You have to tell me now. What's the big deal? I'm just your sister. You can tell me anything."

"I-I-I... I-I've never seen anyone like him before... He's actually really..."

"Really what?"

Maya's face was getting redder and redder by the second. Mia's mouth curved into a small, yet sly smile.

"Maya...?"

"CUTE! He's really cute, Mia! I just want to go up to him and kiss him!!!"

Maya didn't mean to say it that loud. It was a good thing the restaurant was crowded and loud.

"Aww...!"

Maya's face started fading from red to it's normal color. Mia realized that was Maya's breaking point.

"Yeah... my turn?"

"Go ahead."

"Diego is your, what, seventh boyfriend?"

"Hardly! He's my fifth!"

"Oh, only two numbers off! Anyway, have you done more with him than any other boyfriend?"

"As in?"

"Everything! Specifically making out and such."

"I don't count how many times I've made out with guys, Maya."

"Sounds like you've made out a LOT, Sis."

Shoot.

"Erm..."

"Remember that one time I walked in when you and Darren were together?"

"Maya..."

"I believe it was in the spring... about a year ago... I was visiting, and we went to Darren's apartment. I went to the bathroom, and when I came back, you two were making out on his couch!"

Mia was speechless. She could feel herself turning red.

"You had on a jacket, and when I came back, you took it off... or he did... get a little overheated?"

Still speechless, Mia covered her face with her hands.

"And before him, you were with Paul..."

"Yeah... what a mistake..."

"Yep! Aunt Morgan called him a man-who-..."

"Maya! Don't say that word!"

"I didn't say it! Aunt Morgan did! Anyway, you were twenty when you were with him. Didn't you break up with him when he snuck into your college dorm in the middle of the night when you were changing?"

"Let's not go there..."

"Why? Is it gonna make you blush even more than you already are? You look like a tomato!"

"N-N-No, it's just not a-appropriate..."

"I won."

"Unfortunately..."

Maya knew Mia's breaking point when it comes to such a contest. The key was her relationship with Darren. Maya walked around to the other side of the booth and sat down next to Mia. She held her sister tight.

"I'm sorry, Sis..."

"For what?"

"Everything... why did you put on such a contest?"

"For fun, Maya! You shouldn't be sorry at all!"

"But, Mia... it gave me opportunity to bring up the pain..."

Mia bit her lip, gripping her sister tightly. She knew what Maya was talking about. Most of Mia's relationships were painful. She knew Maya could have kept going, but Maya stopped so she wouldn't cause Mia any more pain.

"Don't worry, Maya... It'll be okay."

* * *

The sisters arrived back at Mia's apartment. After changing into their pajamas, they sat facing each other on the futon. Their legs were curled beneath them. It was time.

"Maya... there's something I have to tell you..."

"It's the thing that made you so sad these past couple of days, isn't it, Sis?"

Mia couldn't even respond without a quiver in her voice. She just bit her lip and nodded with a single tear rolling down her cheek. Mia held Maya's hands. She told Maya about the truth of what happened to her father. She told her all of it. Maya sobbed and hugged Mia as tight as she could, burying her face into Mia's shoulder. Mia hugged Maya back and stroked her hair as she cried.

"Shh..."

This was why Mia couldn't tell Maya over the phone. She couldn't just leave Maya crying on the other end with no one to comfort her. She wanted to be there for Maya. Even though Maya was a strong girl, she wasn't invincible. Mia knew how it felt to have lost a relative and not know the reasoning behind it. Luckily, Mia brought a tissue box with her to the futon. Maya dabbed her eyes and blew her nose. Mia had her arm around Maya's shoulders. She pulled her close and put her other hand (right hand) in Maya's.

"Maya..."

"S-S-Sis..."

"I-I'm not letting you sleep alone tonight..."

Maya nodded. Her eyes were closed as the tears slowly flowed out.

"G-Good, 'cause I-I don't wanna be a-alone t-t-tonight..."

Mia kissed Maya's forehead. She took Maya's hand and led Maya to her bedroom. She had Maya climb in from the other side. Maya curled her legs up and continued to cry. Mia gripped Maya tightly as they huddled together under the covers. She brushed Maya's bangs out of her eyes. Maya nuzzled her face towards Mia's so their noses were touching. Mia was really the only family Maya had left. Even though she had her aunt, Morgan was never really THERE for her. Mia always supported her. Maya loved her more than anyone or anything else in the world. The two sisters were pressed up against each other under the covers. Mia closed her eyes and opened them a few seconds later. Maya's eyes were closed as a few more tears rolled out.

"S-Sis..."

Mia curved the end of her mouth into a very tiny smile.

"I love you, Maya... and I'm not going anywhere. Promise."

Mia woke up the next morning before Maya. She winced when she turned her head to see the morning light. Then, she turned her head again to see Maya's face. It made her smile. Maya looked so peaceful. On the inside, though, Mia knew her sister was hurt. Maya stirred in her sleep close to Mia. Mia gently put her hand on Maya's cheek. This action woke Maya up. Her eyes looked redder than usual. It was due to all of her crying from the previous night. Mia smiled at her sister and spoke softly.

"Good morning, Maya."

"Mmm... Morning..."

Maya rubbed her left eye with her closed hand.

"How'd you sleep?"

Maya frowned. Mia understood.

"Never mind..."

"Sis, aren't you supposed to work today?"

"Grossberg told me to work at home today. He knew that you were coming... he also knew about the news... he's having me work here today for those reasons."

Maya nodded in understanding. Mia looked into Maya's eyes. They didn't have their normal glow. In fact, they seemed rather dull and sad. Mia's heart lurched. She hated seeing Maya in such a state.

"Maya... I think you should stay in bed today... You don't look too good..."

Maya paused before answering.

"No... I wanna help you, Sis."

"You don't have to do that..."

"I WANT to..."

"Are you even in any condition to do such a thing?"

"... I can try..."

"How about this? Take a shower and get dressed and see you you feel. I'll make your breakfast."

"Okay, okay..."

Mia was the first to get up. She watched Maya as she walked out the door. Maya flopped down on her stomach with her face in the pillow. She let out a huge sigh. Then, she put her chin on the pillow. A tear rolled out of her eye. The scene broke Mia's heart. She decided to make Maya some chocolate chip pancakes, her favorite breakfast. She called Diego while Maya was in the shower.

"How are you, Kitten?"

"Terrible, Diego... Maya is taking the news really hard. Personally, I don't blame her, but I feel bad."

"She should be taking it hard. She just found out how her father died. My heart goes out to the two of you."

"Thanks, Diego."

"Anytime. I'll visit you later. Maybe I'll bring my special blend... well, with milk and sugar added to hide the bitterness..."

Mia let out a small laugh. Typical Diego to bring coffee into the conversation. It made Mia smile.

"Well, I look forward to it."

"I'm glad."

"Diego... I love you... I really needed to talk to you... you always know how to make me smile when I'm down."

"I love you, too. I just hope I can make Maya smile, too... I'm glad I've got one of the two sisters down."

"I hope so, too..."

"I've got to go file some of these papers. I'll see you in a couple of hours."

"Okay. I'll see you then."

"Bye, Kitten."

"Bye, Diego."

She hung up the phone, and put the pancakes on a plate. She placed the plate down on the table when she heard Maya singing from her room. Mia knew that song anywhere.

'Forever and Always'...

She listened to Maya sing.

"Searching far and wide,
I've been trying to find,
The reason why I love you,
But it cannot be found."

There was a quiver in Maya's voice in the last line. Mia decided to chime in as Maya paused.

"And all the songs we used to sing,
You should know they meant everything,
I'll love you to the bitter end,
I love you forever and always."

Maya and Mia were then singing along on opposite sides of the door. They finished singing the song. Both sisters let a couple of tears roll out. Maya opened the door and hug her sister. It was moments like these that Maya absolutely loved. At the same time, it was sentimental. There was a reason why they loved that song so much. It was the song their mother would sing to them all the time. Their whole family would sing it.

"S-Sis..."

"Maya... Breakfast is ready."

* * *

Diego stopped by later.

"How are the kittens?"

"Dieeeeego!!!"

"Hey, Maya! How's it going?"

"It's okay... how 'bout you?!"

"I'm okay, too. I brought you something."

Diego took out a purple thermos. He knew purple was Maya's favorite color.

"Yay! Thanks, Diego!"

"You're welcome! There's a drink in it."

"Diego!" Mia chimed in. She came in from the bedroom.

"Hey, Kitten."

He gave her a peck on the lips. Maya squealed with joy. Mia blushed.

"Look at what Diego gave me!"

"Coffee, Diego?" Mia whispered.

"Relax! Hot chocolate."

Mia laughed.

"Better drink it up, Maya!"

Diego and Mia sat on the futon as Maya went into the bedroom to find all of her Copper Samurai videos.

"She was absolutely depressed yesterday."

"I can believe that... As were you, Kitten."

"... I was about ten when my father died... To find out Jacob Hawthorne did it... It's unforgivable and shocking..."

"He's a coward..."

"I... I-I still can't believe it..."

"We can get them, Kitten. I promise."

Mia smiled. She kissed her boyfriend passionately.

"Not again!"

They turned to see Maya. Mia blushed. Maya decided to speak again.

Who wants to watch the Copper Samurai with me?!"

"Me!!!" Diego shouted.

Diego and Mia got their wish. They cheered up Maya. But, they had no idea what they would find soon enough.

The couple decided to look up more information about the evidence they collected at the manor. They used Mia's computer.

"Okay... Opitrioxide... it's a chemical compound that is lethal at .15 grams... wow."

"What is it, Kitten?"

"I wonder... why was this at the Fey Manor?"

"Hmm... we could find out... with scientific evidence..."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, what if we compared this to the poison used on Terry Fawles?"

Mia frowned.

"That's a great idea, Diego, but..."

"But what?"

"She has the bottle... and Mr. Fawles is already dead and buried."

"Hmm... you've got a point there... but, I don't think I'm on the wrong track here. We'll find another way."

"Okay. Sounds fine."

"Siiiiiiiiis!!!"

Mia spun her swivel chair around. In Maya's hands were three books.

"Hey, Maya! What is it?"

"These books fell from the bookshelf, and I can't reach high enough to put them back."

"Okay. I'll put them away in a sec."

"Actually... can we look at them?"

"Why so interested?"

"I dunno. They just look fun to read."

Mia immediately knew what the book on the bottom of the stack was. Her eyes grew wide.

"A-Ahh... o-okay... Lemme see them."

Maya handed Mia the books. Mia took the book at the bottom out of the stack. Suddenly, she felt the book slip out of her hand. It didn't fall to the ground, though. She spun her chair around to face the person who took her book. Diego read the front cover.

"'Dear Diary'... aww, how sweet..."

Mia's face was a bright shade of red. She didn't want her boyfriend or her sister reading her diary. They would tease her to no end.

"D-Diego..."

"Aww, that's so cute!" Maya cut in. Mia gave her sister a dirty look.

"Don't worry. I don't reveal the secrets of kittens... well, at least the good ones."

He put the diary down on Mia's computer desk. Mia smiled.

"Thank you, Diego."

Mmia looked at the other two books. One was just a law book Mia had already read, but the other book was one Mia had never seen before. She read the title.

"'A Flower By Day, A Weed By Night'... What is this?!"

"Who's the author?"

Mia examined the book.

"There is no author."

"What?"

"It seems to be a journal of some kind."

"What's in it?"

Mia flipped open the journal.

"They're a bunch of plans for a jewelry company... hold on... could it be...?"

"Jacob Hawthorne..."

* * *

Mia sat on her bed later that night, thinking. Diego had already left, and she was already dressed in her pajamas. She couldn't stop thinking about her past relationships. That one game she played with Maya at the diner started to catch up to her. Maya was right. She gave Maya the opportunity to bring up the past.

"M-Mia...?"

Mia turned her head to see Maya standing in the doorway. Mia tilted her head slightly.

"Maya... what's wrong?"

Maya walked in and sat down next to her sister.

"That's what I was just going to ask you."

Mia sighed.

"I was just thinking about the past..."

"Your relationships?"

"Y-Yeah..."

"What about them?"

"I was just thinking about how they ended... Jeff left the village, and I never saw him again. Aidan and I fought all the time. Paul cheated... several times. Darren... well... we all know that story. I just don't want anything to happen to Diego."

"Mia, he loves you... I know it. I really do! I can sense these things!"

Mia smiled.

"I know he does... I actually..."

"What?"

"I-I... I think he's the one."

Maya grinned.

"That's wonderful, Sis!"

Maya hugged her sister. She always knew how to make Mia happy. Then, Maya started dancing and singing while still sitting on the bed.

"Mia loves Dieeeeeego! Diego loves Miiiiiiia! They are a sexy, sexy, sexy, sexy couple!!!!"

Mia laughed.

"At least I know I'll always have you, Maya."

Maya and Mia went to the office the next day. Maya was skipping and singing in the hal next to her sister.

"It's a neeeeew daaaaaay! I'm here tooooooo staaaaaay! The sun is shining, and Mia and Diego are kiiiiiissiiiiing!!!"

"Shh, Maya!!!"

Mia's face turned red. Maya giggled. Once arriving at Mia's office, Maya plopped down on the floor.

"So, what are we doing today, Sis?"

"More paper work. This time, I'm looking into an old case."

"Which one?"

"... A poisoning case."

"Interesting..."

Mia was flipping through the papers of the case where the government officials were poisoned. There were six victims. They all ingested approximately .45 grams of the poison.

"Siiiiiiis, I'm bored!"

Mia found some computer paper and a pencil. She gave them to Maya.

"Can you do me a favor and draw a picture, Maya? I wanna see how good your artistic skill have gotten."

"Sure thing, Sis! What kinda picture?"

"Anything."

"Okay!"

Mia shook her head, regretting the statement after realizing Maya might draw a picture about her and Diego. Just then, Diego walked into the room.

"Ah, there are my kittens!"

"Good morning!"

"GOOOOOD MOOOOOORNING, DIEGO!"

Diego smiled. He walked up to Mia's desk and placed his palms on it.

"Good morning to you both. How's the research coming, Kitten?"

"Diego, did you know that the government officials ingested three times the lethal dosage? Well, assuming that the Opitrioxide was the poison."

"Hmm... that's really interesting... that shows something about the killer."

"Do tell."

"Three times the lethal dosage is just overkill. This shows the killer really wanted them dead for some reason."

"Very true."

"What else?"

Mia kept on reading.

"Death was immediate... And..."

"And?"

"They all died somewhere in the office building... Three in their offices, one in the lunchroom, one in the middle of a meeting, and the other in another employee's office."

"How about the days? Were they all the same day?"

"No... three the first day, two the next day, and one the third day."

"I wonder..."

"What?"

"The number of deaths per day... and the days themselves... were they coincidence?"

"I don't think so. I mean, the pattern of deaths is decreasing by one... and the last person to die was actually the ringleader of the investigation. So, it's not coincidence."

"Hawthorne... he had it planned from the beginning."

"But, how did he get them to lick their rings on those particular days?"

"Another mystery to the already growing pile."

"Well... wait..."

"Got something?"

"It says here that three of them received their rings right before they went to work on the first day..."

"Are those the same people who died on the first day?"

"... Yes. This habit... what if something caused it?"

"Nervousness..."

"What?"

"Well, it's logical, isn't it? I mean, certain people have certain habits."

"Something caused them to do it... or someone..."

"Maybe... he hired people... to get them to do it."

"Look, Sis!!! I drew a picture!"

Just as Mia thought, it was of Mia and Diego kissing in a courtroom. But, it made Mia smile. It was a cute picture. Mia was holding a glass of Aunt Morgan's tea in the picture. Then, Mia gasped.

"Thanks, Maya! It's adorable!"

Maya smiled in satisfaction.

"Diego, look at this picture!"

Diego threw his head back and laughed.

"It's cute. There's even coffee in my hand."

"That's what I want you to pay attention to. What if not all of their rings were poisoned?"

"Kitten... this is getting a little bizarre... but, you might be right."

"It's logical."

"How does this relate to Dahlia?"

"Like father like daughter."