Mina eyed herself in the mirror as she carefully applied light pink lipstick to her lips. She smiled at herself and poised in front of the mirror to make sure her new look for the night was all right.
She had her hair tied up in a bun. She wore a red turtleneck sweater and a long jean skirt with a slit down the side. She brushed back a lock of hair and sighed. She was nervous. It wasn't just knowing that Shadow probably wouldn't show up, it was also very stressful because she had over eighty kids that she had for the performance. She had to make sure that they were dressed properly; their voices were all right, they knew the words the songs, and that they knew where to stand on stage. She had them do rehearsals before but now was the real thing.
Isabella walked into her room carrying a huge pile of laundry. "Honestly, Mina. I don't know how you go through so many cloths. Even though I'm washing for only the two of us, I feel like I'm washing for an army."
"Momma, I'm not in the mood right now." Mina said, while the butterflies in her stomach seemed to bang against her insides.
"Hey, you brought it upon yourself." Isabella replied, taking a seat on Mina's bed. "Come to think of it, Arthur the same problem when we were first married."
Mina sighed and sat down next to her mother. "I know how you got dad's attention but how did you get him to know that you loved him?"
"Let me tell you something, Mina. As sweet and kind as men are they are oblivious to feeling. I mean; you can walk by with a sign that proclaimed you love and they still wouldn't get it."
Mina laughed. "I see."
"So what is this about? The last time you asked about Arthur and I you were crazy about Sonic. I'm assuming you have another crush." Isabella said.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you about it right away." Mina said, leaning on her mom's shoulder. "This time I felt so shy about having a crush. I couldn't bring myself to tell you."
"Ah, so you may really be in love this time." She said, smiling.
"What do you mean?"
"I'm not saying that you weren't in love with Sonic because I know you were. The thing is, it really surprised me about how open you were with your feelings. I was never like that; I hid everything away from the world." Isabella said. She hugged Mina.
"I wasn't honest with my feelings," Mina said, tearfully, "Sally was. I didn't tell Sonic when I had the chance."
"Don't you think that was fate? That you were meant to be with someone else?" Isabella asked.
"Not at first." Mina said, "until."
"Until you met this guy." Isabella said, "So, who is he?"
Mina blushed, "It's Shadow." Mina didn't look up at first. She was sure her mother would throw her a disapproving glance. No matter what Shadow was like on the inside; with that cold stare he usually wears all the time, anyone would think he was a criminal. Even though he told the whole village his true story, some would still think we could turn evil at any minute and she didn't want it to be her mom.
Her mom didn't frown, didn't say anything at all. She hugged her daughter tightly and whispered, "I wish you luck then." What Mina didn't know was that Isabella often talked with Shadow when seeing him around the village. After all, everyone in Knothole knows everyone. Mother's were especially friendly and their friendliness caused most of them to talk to him.
Isabella found that he was a great guy. A mother worries a lot about the adventures of their young. She found that if in fact Mina were to be with him he would never just take off and she would never get hurt trying to follow him. She didn't need to join any special groups to get more attention from him because he didn't belong to anything. Also, he wouldn't seem caught between two girls and give each special moment without knowing it. These were the traits of Sonic that Isabella didn't like very much. Shadow would never have her worry about Mina's safety. So when Mina told her whom she liked, she couldn't be happier.
"You'd better get going." Isabella said, "You have to be the first one there."
"Yeah, I'm sure." Mina said. "Thanks for the talk."
"No problem. Make sure you were a jacket out there, it's going to get chilly!"
-------
"Mina! Over here!" Rosie cried, running up the side isle of the theatre. Mina said on top of the stage, going over a list of the things that needed to be done.
"Oh, hi Rosie." Mina said, "How have the kids been doing? I'm sorry I haven't baby-sat that much. I've been kind of busy."
"They are doing just find but of course they miss you. Anyway, I'll be helping out today, I figured you would need another hand." She said, smiling.
"That's great! You don't know how much work this is! My head is spinning." Mina said, collapsing on stage.
Rosie pushed herself up on the stage and sat over her. "Well, don't you worry! It will all be over in a flash. Getting the performance ready is the hardest part. I'm sure this will be a night to remember."
"For me or the kids?" Mina groaned, pushing herself back up.
"Both, of course!" Rosie laughed, "But I think you are in for a few surprises tonight."
"?"
"Never mind." She said, halting her laughter. "The kids are meeting the room to the right of the staircase. You'll want to check roll there to make sure they are all there. I have some things to take care of before the performance starts so I'll see you when the show starts."
Mina smiled wearily as Rosie made her way through the crowd of eager village folk. Mina watched them with envy; wishing she could just take a seat and enjoy the show. But they must be so excited to see the children sing so she must do her best to put on a good show. "The kids must be nervous too." Mina whispered.
She jumped off the stage and walked up the isle. There was a staircase at the end of it and a room right next to it. She opened to door and practically fell over as a loud sound of an off key trumpet blew into her ear. Of course, the room that they were in was the music . "Settle down, guys." She shouted, walking into the room, "Put down the instruments and take a seat."
The kids chattered and groaned as they put the instruments back on their standing and plopped down on the carpeted floor.
"Hello everyone." Mina said.
"Hi Mina!" They said back.
"I'm sure you guys are really excited about the performance but you need to calm down so that I can get everything set up so you can make your parents proud. Can you all do that?"
The children all nodded their heads.
"Great. First, I'll take roll." Mina called out everyone's name and marked a check next to it when they said that they were here. When she was done, there were three kids who were missing. Worriment was labeled all over her face. "Where are these three?!"
"Who?" Sasha asked.
"Bailey the Bee, Ninjask the Chameleon, and Lolly the Alligator!"
"You mean Team Mischief?"
"Is that what they call themselves?" Mina asked, sweat dropping, "It figures, they are the cousins of Team Chaotix."
"They probably forgot what to do; Bailey has a really bad memory and he's the leader."
"On God," Mina groaned, smacking her head. "I'll be right back, don't make a sound." She ran out of the room and down the isle, frantically looking for the Chaotix so that maybe they could find the three missing children.
She noticed Rosie on the other side of the Theatre and was going to ask her for help but it seemed as if she was busy. It looked like she was pulling someone toward the room on the other isle but she had no time to focus her thoughts on that.
A gray chipmunk, which Mina recognized as the owner of the Theatre, walked up to her handed her the phone he was carrying. "It's a phone call for you from Mrs. Rabbit. She says it's something about missing kids."
"Thank you." Mina said as she took the phone. "Hello?"
"Is this Mina?" Asked the voice through the phone.
"Yes. Vanilla it's me."
"Oh, good, I wasn't sure."
"So, what is it that you called me about?"
"Have you noticed three kids missing?"
"Yes! Do you know where they are?"
"They came by caroling a few minutes ago. I asked them if they were apart of the performance and they said that they were. They thought that they were supposed to meet up with everyone in the streets and not at the Theatre."
"So." Mina sighed, "Where are they now?"
"They are on their way at this very moment."
"That's great!" Mina said, "Thank you so much for telling me. I can't thank you enough."
"I'm sure it's very stressful for you to be running this show."
"You're telling me! Rosie isn't even helping me when she supposed to. I wonder what the things she had to do are.I'm the one who really needs help."
"I can't answer that one for you," Vanilla laughed, "Before I forget, Cream wanted me to ask you if you have had any luck yet?"
"Well.I'm doing fine right now," Mina said, sulking "but no luck so far."
"I see.I'm not exactly sure what that means but I'm hope whatever you are hoping for will come true. Everyone deserves to be happy on Christmas Eve."
"Thank you, Vanilla." Mina said, smiling.
"No problem. I'd better let you go now."
After Vanilla hung up, Mina heard the pitter patter of Team Mischief as they ran down the aisle at full speed. The three crashed right into Mina causing her to fall over with the three on top of her.
"Why hello, Bailey, Lolly, Ninjask." Mina grumbled, rubbing the tender spot on her head.
"Oh, Mina! Where are so sorry for being late!" Lolly cried, "It was Bailey's fault for messing up the information!"
"Hey!" Bailey cried, grinding his teeth.
"Calm down." Ninjask whined.
Suddenly, the three jumped on each other and started fighting. Lolly bit Bailey's wing with her big mouth, Bailey hit Ninjask who was trying to stop them from fighting, and so on.
"Hey!" Mina yelled, getting to her feet, "Break it up right now or I'll call your cousins over. I don't think you would want to mess with them." The three stopped midway and stared at her with big eyes. "That's better." Mina sighed, brushing back a piece of hair. "It wasn't just Bailey's fault. All of you went to the practices and should have known the correct information. Anyway, get into the band room over there, I'll be there shortly."
"Y-Yes, Mina." They said, running for their refuge.
Mina sighed heavily and looked around the almost filled room. She saw Team Chaotix sitting near the back and wondered what it would have been like telling them of their younger cousins mess up. "It's almost time for the show, I better get them ready."
---
"Who's got a beard that's long and white Santa's got a beard that's long and white,
Who comes around on a special night Santa comes around on a special night,
Special night, beard that's white,
Must be Santa Must be Santa Must be Santa, Santa Clause!"
"The show's coming along great!" Rosie exclaimed, patting Mina's back. "Look at them on stage; they look so happy!"
Indeed they did. Every face smiled proudly as they sang the songs they practiced so long to learn. The parents in the audience looked adoringly at their children as parents always do. Even Team Mischief was able to keep there cool except for a few jabs between Bailey and Lolly.
"Must be Santa Must be Santa Must be Santa, Santa Clause!"
The song ended and the kids took their bow, followed by an explosion of clapping from the audience. As the last kid left the stage, Rosie walked onto it. She took one of the mikes from the side of the stage and put it in the middle. By then, the children found their families and waited for the final announcements to be made.
"Once again, Hello everyone!" Rosie said, "I'm so happy that you and your children could make it out here tonight to truly make this carol spectacular. I'd like to thank the children who participated in this carol for a job well done." Some whistles from the children sounded from the crowd. "And parents, I thank you for coming out here to see your children perform."
She took a breath and continued. "But, I would especially like to thank the person who made this caroling possible. Without her, this caroling simply wouldn't have happened. She put together the practices and arranged everything to make this happen and it is also her first time doing so. This person is Mina Mongoose."
Mina, standing on the side of the stage, still hidden, blushed crazily as a loud applause came from the audience. She also heard the familiar 'whoots' from Lolly, Bailey and Ninjask.
"Normally," Rosie continued, "We would thank her by giving her flowers and have her walk out on stage. This time will be different though. Someone else has volunteered to do something special for Mina."
Mina stared at Rosie, mouthing, "What?" but getting no response. Rosie winked.
" He will be singing 'Merry Christmas Darling'. So, without further ado, please give a warm welcome to Shadow the Hedgehog!"
As the ebony figure stepped out onto the stage, Mina nearly fainted and fell backwards! She couldn't believe it; Shadow chose her!
He stepped up to the mike and slightly nodded, noting that he was going to sing. When the first note strung, he sang:
"Greeting cards have just been sent, The Christmas rush is through, But I still have one more wish to make A special one for you..."
Rosie walked off the stage with a humongous grin on her face. "Great surprise, huh?" Mina, not hearing her, stood open-mouthed at the performance. Rosie shrugged and took a seat on an empty chair lying in the corner.
Merry Christmas Darling. We're apart that's true. But I can dream and in my dreams, I'm Christmas-ing with you..."
Shadow slightly blushed as he sung but it couldn't be seen from underneath his dark features. He closed his eyes as he belted out a verse.
Holidays are joyful, There's always something new, But every day's a holiday When I'm near to you..."
"I can't believe it. I can't believe it." Mina repeated through her head. It was amazing; the fact that he was singing for her in front of all those people. She could never find the courage to do that if she didn't already have practice being on stage. She thought of her courage, if any, and how she could tell him before this night was over. She closed her eyes to calm herself down and listened to his voice. He had the sweetest voice.
The lights on my tree, I wish you could see, I wish it every day, The logs on the fire Fill me with desire, To see you and say..."
Lolly giggled when Shadow stepped on stage; thinking about Mina's reaction. She felt that Mina really deserved to have this kind of surprise for Christmas. Frankly, Mina was the only one who was surprised. Shadow had told Rosie ahead of time of what he wanted to do. Rosie told them and, of course, they told their families. "I hope my crush will do something like this for me one day." Lolly sighed, looking at Bailey. "Maybe I shouldn't hit him as much."
That I wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year too, I've just one wish for Christmas On this Christmas Eve, I wish I were with you I wish I were with you!"
When Shadow finished the last verse he got a standing ovation. Everyone clapped wildly and a few of the children cheered.
That's when he finally got to look at Mina. She dressed up for the occasion and she looked very pretty. It's too bad his present had to be a surprise otherwise he would have complemented her when he got there. Unfortunately, Rosie grabbed him before he could step in the door; dragging him down the other isle to a room to wait at. He swore Mina had seen him but apparently not; the ecstatic look on her face proved otherwise.
When he walked off the stage Mina jumped into his arms; completely forgetting her shyness for the moment. She hugged him tight and he hugged her back. With her head pressed against his shoulder and starting to cry, she uttered, "That was amazing.T-Thank you so much." Shadow smiled to himself and hugged her tighter, "So, I take it you liked my present."
"Y-Yes!" She cried, "What would make you think otherwise?"
"I don't know." He laughed, realizing what a dumb question he asked. He let her go and looked at her. Her eyes were puffy from there crying and her lipstick was a bit smudged; he hated to think some got on his jacket but he could always wash it clean. "How about we go for a walk in the city; the night is still young. What do you think?"
"Sure." Mina replied, smiling. "Let me just go down and finish with the closing up the Theatre; the kids mad a mess in the band room."
-----
Mina sighed heavily as she picked up scraps of confetti off the band room floor. She hated to think where they came not the music books.
"Knock, knock," Rosie said, closing the door behind her. She wore a huge grin on her face.
"Don't act so full of yourself, Rosie." Mina grinned.
"I'll try." Rosie laughed, "So what's the plan now? I heard you are going into to city for a bit."
"Yes." Mina replied, "I'm so nervous."
"What's there to be nervous about?" She asked, picking up some scraps.
"I still have to tell him those three words." Mina said, blushing.
"Oh, that's right. You're not out of the woods yet," Rosie said, flatly. "Yep, even after all of that, he still doesn't know that you love him. He only answered to the bet unlike every other guy."
"That's because Sonic, Knuckles and Tails already know that Amy, Rouge and Cream love them. Shadow doesn't know a thing." Mina sighed.
"Then let him know! Stop torturing yourself for no reason." Rosie groaned. She grabbed Mina by the arm and made her stand up. "I'll handle the rest of this room. Go have a good time. But don't expect everything to go the way you planned."
---
"So, you really liked the present I gave you?" Mina asked, looking down at her shoes as she and Shadow walked along the sidewalk in the city. She was so nervous, excited and scared-worst of all; she couldn't find anything to talk about. Shadow was fine with the awkward silence but she wasn't.
"Of course." Shadow smiled. He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out the little doll. "I'll carry it whenever I can."
"She must have meant a lot to you." Mina remarked, already knowing it to be true. She watched a snowflake land on the ground.
"She was my only friend and she was very kind." Shadow replied, staring at the doll "I often feel like I shouldn't be here and she should. Ever since I can remember, Maria has always wanted to go. I was as intrigued about the planet but she was born there; everyone wants to go back to the place they were born at some point. I just think it should be her here and not me."
"So you have a lot of regrets and you think you could have saved her." Mina contemplated, "From the story you told, I don't believe you could have done a thing. I don't think she blamed you. I mean, you were made to save the planet and that duty came above all else so it was more important to her to send you off then worry about her own life."
Shadow stopped and looked at her with puzzlement.
Mina smiled, slowly gaining her courage, "I can understand because I've felt helpless. I wasn't able to do anything when Eggman kidnapped my mother and turned her into a robot. Sure, she didn't die but the fact that she was now distanced and not the scared me. I too am filled with many I brought upon is a difference."
"I'm sorry," Shadow replied, not finding anything better to say. He was still amazed at how much she knew about the way he felt and yet she didn't go through the same thing.
"Really, it's alright," Mina laughed, seeing him thinking, "As you know, my mother is now de-robotized and everything's okay."
Shadow smiled and took her hand. They walked about a block more deep in thought, wondering what to say, what to do. Just going out somewhere with one person was a new experience for Shadow. Mina had never gone out with a guy before although she spent many days chasing after one.
Mina felt her courage reaching it's peak as she held his hand and she was now itching to tell him what she wanted to say for so long. She took a little breath and looked at Shadow. "I have to tell you something really important."
"Hmmm?" Shadow asked, looking down from his thoughts. He couldn't imagine what else she could say to him but he was ready to listen.
"...since I participated in this bet, I've been thinking about my feelings a lot," She mumbled, slightly smiling because she felt her words sounded corny. "Well, what I mean to say is, I already knew what my feelings were but I didn't feel I could ever say them. As I worked harder and met my rival, I realized how important it was to voice my opinion, which I'm not used to doing." She smiled, "When I saw you up on stage, I couldn't believe you were actually there. That took so much courage, more than I can ever think to do but I do have to say." She paused, "...that I love you."
Shadow felt like his mind just rammed into the side of his head. "When did she love me? Where was I? How did that come about?"
"Uh, I had a crush on you for a long time." Mina whispered, seeing that he wasn't replying. She started to get scared. "It's not something I expect you to answer right away since I took you by surprise.I don't want to ruin this night or anything."
"Your right," Shadow replied, rubbing his head, "I'm sure what to say."
Mina started to tremble; she didn't like the tone of his voice. He started to walk and his grip on her hand loosened. She gently laid it on his arm to show she was still there the crowds were getting heavy.
"'t know anything." Shadow mumbled, "...about why you love I can't." Shadow was so deep in thought; he didn't notice that Mina let go of his arm and that her feet no longer walked next to his. By the time he crossed an intersection he noticed she was no longer there.
---
"Run! Just run away!"
That was the voice inside her head as she ran from Shadow. She couldn't- just couldn't explain to him why she loved him. It was just too complicated. She didn't have any courage left to tell him anything, to defend herself. She felt like a scared rabbit when she heard those last few words-she was afraid to hear 'no'. She stopped in an empty alley and slid down the wall with her face covered in her hands, her hands covered in her tears. She hated herself. She couldn't do anything. There were so many reasons why she loved Shadow but they sounded stupid when they rolled off her tongue when she practiced in the mirror. She was a wimp, a loser, and an idiot. She silently cried.
A figure stepped through the narrow way of the alley with a cackling laughter. When the moon shown on the figure, it turned out to be Shaniska. "I knew I would find you here after getting dumped." She looked down at her. "Everyone comes here when they are sad. I do when my parents drive me insane."
"You must have a sad life, then" Mina mumbled through her hands.
"So why cry?" Shaniska asked, ignoring the last comment, "You won the bet, so why are you crying? Is it because he hated your present anyway?"
"I lost," Mina cried.
"I don't get it!" Shaniska growled, "It's just a stupid bet!"
"That's where you're wrong," Mina, said. " Maybe for you and your friends but not for us, not for me. You were just doing it for Sally, We did it because we loved the guys we made presents for."
".him." Shaniska uttered, speechless, "You mean, it wasn't just a game?"
---
Shadow quickly ran back the way he came, looking through the crowds to see if he could find Mina. It seemed as if the amount of people on the street doubled and he found himself pushing through some groups.
He knew why she left- she was afraid that his answer was going to be 'no'. She was far from the truth. He didn't have time to think when she confessed to him, who would? He tried to sort out his thoughts and give her some words so that she would stay but not get her hopes up because he wasn't sure what his feelings were. "This is no good," He muttered, "I can't look for her with my brain racked like this." He stopped and leaned against a store window, feeling it's cool hit his back. He breathed heavily but then smiled, "This must be what Maria meant when she was talking about a 'heavenly burden'. It means that this is a decision or suffering that everyone wants to have happen to them. I guess I should be lucky."
--
"Now it's time to open your presents!" Tails squealed, grabbing two boxes from the crate. "Here, open this one, it's from Shaniska."
"Why hers first?" Shadow asked.
"Because you have to save the best for last!" Tails said, shoving the presents in his face. Knuckles and Sonic snickered.
"I wouldn't laugh if I were you," Shadow said, unwrapping Shaniska's present, "Oh, this is interesting."
"What is it?" Sonic asked.
Shadow held up two pieces of paper. They were two tickets to a rock concert that was happening in a couple days. Shadow looked grimly at the tickets, he wasn't impressed.
"You don't like them?" Knuckles asked, "At least they aren't cookies. You might have a good time."
"I don't think so." Shadow sighed, "I don't listen to music besides our game CDs. It's not that I don't like music."
"Yeah, yeah, because Maria used to sing to you and she had the most beautiful voice." Sonic said, grinning. "You know Mina has a pretty voice too. Natural born talent I say. I should know, I was the one who first got her on stage."
"Hey! How 'bout you open Mina's present?" Tails asked, glancing at Cream's present. "I wonder what she made you? No one really knows what you like."
"Yeah, I was stumped when looking for your present." Sonic added.
"Well, I hope I don't find an I.O.U. in there." Shadow smirked; knowing that that is what Sonic probably had planned. While unwrapping Mina's gift, he mumbled, "It's not that it's hard to know what I want because I don't even know myself. I've had little time spent here and I haven't even found a hobby."
"That explains it." Knuckles added.
Shadow opened the package and it brought a true smile to his face. There was a little doll of Maria placed in the middle of the box. It looked almost exactly like Maria and the craftsmanship was amazing. There was also a note inside that said:
"I hope you enjoy having your best friend around you all the time- Mina"
--
Shadow smiled and thought of why decided to sing for Mina's present. First of all, he didn't know what she liked. Even talking to Isabella didn't help.
It seemed the only things Mina was and had been interested in were Sonic, singing and her family. He couldn't think of anything related to family for a present unless cloning her dad was involved- not that having a walking carbon copy would please her. From what he knew, Mina's Sonic chasing days were over so there was no need to do anything involving him.
From seeing Sonic's presents he knew that Sonic had a big decision to make and he couldn't ask his friend to do something for Mina. So what was left but singing? Shadow felt like a hypocrite at first because he didn't like Shaniska's music gift and yet he was using music for his present. But there was a reason for using it that totally convinced him to sing to her.
He knew that no one had ever sung for her ever since her talent for singing was recognized. He had a feeling that she would enjoy someone singing to her. Shadow had on idea how bad or good his voice was and since he didn't know much about what a decent voice was, he couldn't tell. As he practiced his Christmas song he hoped that his voice sounded appealing enough for at least her; he didn't want to embarrass himself.
It turns out his singing was better than he had hoped for, and he was grateful for that. He could still remember the look on her face when he finished singing. It really made his heart flip over. He felt- he couldn't believe it- like grabbing her and kissing her right there but he calmed himself down to just a hug.
What he felt must have been some form of true love or love at first sight. It wasn't the first time he had seen her so it had to be a mix of both. Maria and even Dr. Gerald had told him about this. As much as he wanted to believe it he found he just couldn't. He didn't believe it was possible to look at someone just once and want to be with them forever; he never thought it would happen to him of all people. But he realized that it did. That was the feeling he had felt.
Shadow sighed, "Now that I have my feelings straightened out, I can tell her the truth." He skated the through the crowds and swiftly dodged everyone that crossed his path. He was sure she would be drying so he listened for even a slight whisper. His ears were good; almost as good as Rouges-wait! Shadow stopped short just in time to see a cute scene unfold across the street. It was Rouge and Knuckles and they were kissing! "I defiantly don't want to disturb them now," Shadow grinned, "I have my own bet winner to find." It was good that he saw them; it gave Shadow more courage. 'If Knuckles could do it then so can I. After all, I'm the ultimate life form.' He sped off.
---
"You mean to say." Shaniska trailed off. She stood awkwardly in front of Mina.
"All of us are in love with the guys we gave our presents to." Mina sniffed, not believing that Shaniska had no idea about this.
"Sally told us it was friendly competition," Shaniska insisted, "She said that you guys picked randomly a guy to give a present to. It was to prove that homemade gifts were better that store-brought. I personally think that store-brought gifts are better, so that's why I got involved."
"Well, Sally was lying." Mina said, "I don't get why you were saying all those things about Shadow though."
"Oh, that?" Shaniska grinned, "I was telling the truth about that. I figured while I was here I could get some- not knowing the truth of course."
"It doesn't matter though, I won the bet but I didn't win his heart. That's the only thing that matters to me." Mina cried, burying her face in her hands.
Shaniska noticed someone standing right outside the alley and smirked because she knew who it was. "So tell me, why do you like Shadow?"
"They sound stupid, you won't want to hear them." Mina sobbed.
"Don't tell me you're chicken?" Shaniska prodded.
She was not a chicken or at least she hoped she wasn't. If she could tell Shaniska, even her friends, how could she tell Shadow himself? She buried her head in her hands but her words could be heard clearly.
Shaniska took this chance and backed out of the alley, smiling at Shadow as she left, "I hope you know what to do now."
Shadow slowly walked into the alley and sat next to Mina, putting his hand over her shoulder.
Mina thought that it was still Shaniska so she didn't look up and continued what she was going to say, "Well, I love how Shadow is so polite and kind to people when they truly deserve it. I love how strong he is when he's in battle as if nothing would stop him from winning. I love how he feels he never has to prove himself to anyone and he doesn't try to be one of the crowd." She smiled, "I love the expressions in his eyes whenever he's feeling something and I love how his quills move when he's standing still. I love that tuft of hair on his chest and his armlets-everything about him." She paused and coughed, "This sounds really corny."
"Maybe," Shadow said, not being able to contain himself much longer, "But at least I know how you feel." He heard her gasp and gently lifted her head from its hiding place. Her tear-stained face stared back at him in shock but her tears started to let up when she saw the warmth in this crimson eyes. "That' wasn't so hard." He added, hugging her to his chest.
"Yes, it was," She cried into his chest, resting her head on his chest hair. "I don't have courage like you do."
"You do have it," Shadow whispered, "You just don't know how to use it."
"Maybe I can try to use it now." Mina whispered back. Trembling like crazy, she closed her eyes and brought her face closer to his.
Shadow knew what was coming next but he didn't want to help her out by locking with her first. She said she wanted to use her courage so he respected that; he would wait there forever until she made it to him. He did, however, lift her arms off his shoulders and had her wrap her arms around his neck, clinging to his quills.
Still trembling with fear and anticipation, she lightly brushed against his soft lips.
Shadow kissed her back and held her close to him; once and a while opening his eyes to see hers flutter and closing them again to hear her sigh. Sonic was right, she had the beautiful voice, no matter what she was doing. He pressed his lips firmly against hers and deepened the kiss. He felt his body take control and he broke the kiss and slid down her neck; his mind addicted to her soft moans. After kissing her collarbone he gently held her to him and enjoyed this new feeling he had growing inside of him.
Mina on the other hand, was in perfect bliss. She couldn't have imagined a more perfect kiss and she was proud of herself for finding the courage to start it. She realized there was a major difference between this kiss and the one she forced on Sonic. All she had felt then was a slight spark when their lips met but nothing more. She thought it was because he didn't enjoy it that she didn't so that's why she didn't give up. But the kiss she had with Shadow proved that this was true love, not puppy love. She snuggled into Shadow's chest and murmured, "I love you, Shadow."
And Shadow, no longer confused but glad she had said it again, replied, "I love you too, Mina."
She had her hair tied up in a bun. She wore a red turtleneck sweater and a long jean skirt with a slit down the side. She brushed back a lock of hair and sighed. She was nervous. It wasn't just knowing that Shadow probably wouldn't show up, it was also very stressful because she had over eighty kids that she had for the performance. She had to make sure that they were dressed properly; their voices were all right, they knew the words the songs, and that they knew where to stand on stage. She had them do rehearsals before but now was the real thing.
Isabella walked into her room carrying a huge pile of laundry. "Honestly, Mina. I don't know how you go through so many cloths. Even though I'm washing for only the two of us, I feel like I'm washing for an army."
"Momma, I'm not in the mood right now." Mina said, while the butterflies in her stomach seemed to bang against her insides.
"Hey, you brought it upon yourself." Isabella replied, taking a seat on Mina's bed. "Come to think of it, Arthur the same problem when we were first married."
Mina sighed and sat down next to her mother. "I know how you got dad's attention but how did you get him to know that you loved him?"
"Let me tell you something, Mina. As sweet and kind as men are they are oblivious to feeling. I mean; you can walk by with a sign that proclaimed you love and they still wouldn't get it."
Mina laughed. "I see."
"So what is this about? The last time you asked about Arthur and I you were crazy about Sonic. I'm assuming you have another crush." Isabella said.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you about it right away." Mina said, leaning on her mom's shoulder. "This time I felt so shy about having a crush. I couldn't bring myself to tell you."
"Ah, so you may really be in love this time." She said, smiling.
"What do you mean?"
"I'm not saying that you weren't in love with Sonic because I know you were. The thing is, it really surprised me about how open you were with your feelings. I was never like that; I hid everything away from the world." Isabella said. She hugged Mina.
"I wasn't honest with my feelings," Mina said, tearfully, "Sally was. I didn't tell Sonic when I had the chance."
"Don't you think that was fate? That you were meant to be with someone else?" Isabella asked.
"Not at first." Mina said, "until."
"Until you met this guy." Isabella said, "So, who is he?"
Mina blushed, "It's Shadow." Mina didn't look up at first. She was sure her mother would throw her a disapproving glance. No matter what Shadow was like on the inside; with that cold stare he usually wears all the time, anyone would think he was a criminal. Even though he told the whole village his true story, some would still think we could turn evil at any minute and she didn't want it to be her mom.
Her mom didn't frown, didn't say anything at all. She hugged her daughter tightly and whispered, "I wish you luck then." What Mina didn't know was that Isabella often talked with Shadow when seeing him around the village. After all, everyone in Knothole knows everyone. Mother's were especially friendly and their friendliness caused most of them to talk to him.
Isabella found that he was a great guy. A mother worries a lot about the adventures of their young. She found that if in fact Mina were to be with him he would never just take off and she would never get hurt trying to follow him. She didn't need to join any special groups to get more attention from him because he didn't belong to anything. Also, he wouldn't seem caught between two girls and give each special moment without knowing it. These were the traits of Sonic that Isabella didn't like very much. Shadow would never have her worry about Mina's safety. So when Mina told her whom she liked, she couldn't be happier.
"You'd better get going." Isabella said, "You have to be the first one there."
"Yeah, I'm sure." Mina said. "Thanks for the talk."
"No problem. Make sure you were a jacket out there, it's going to get chilly!"
-------
"Mina! Over here!" Rosie cried, running up the side isle of the theatre. Mina said on top of the stage, going over a list of the things that needed to be done.
"Oh, hi Rosie." Mina said, "How have the kids been doing? I'm sorry I haven't baby-sat that much. I've been kind of busy."
"They are doing just find but of course they miss you. Anyway, I'll be helping out today, I figured you would need another hand." She said, smiling.
"That's great! You don't know how much work this is! My head is spinning." Mina said, collapsing on stage.
Rosie pushed herself up on the stage and sat over her. "Well, don't you worry! It will all be over in a flash. Getting the performance ready is the hardest part. I'm sure this will be a night to remember."
"For me or the kids?" Mina groaned, pushing herself back up.
"Both, of course!" Rosie laughed, "But I think you are in for a few surprises tonight."
"?"
"Never mind." She said, halting her laughter. "The kids are meeting the room to the right of the staircase. You'll want to check roll there to make sure they are all there. I have some things to take care of before the performance starts so I'll see you when the show starts."
Mina smiled wearily as Rosie made her way through the crowd of eager village folk. Mina watched them with envy; wishing she could just take a seat and enjoy the show. But they must be so excited to see the children sing so she must do her best to put on a good show. "The kids must be nervous too." Mina whispered.
She jumped off the stage and walked up the isle. There was a staircase at the end of it and a room right next to it. She opened to door and practically fell over as a loud sound of an off key trumpet blew into her ear. Of course, the room that they were in was the music . "Settle down, guys." She shouted, walking into the room, "Put down the instruments and take a seat."
The kids chattered and groaned as they put the instruments back on their standing and plopped down on the carpeted floor.
"Hello everyone." Mina said.
"Hi Mina!" They said back.
"I'm sure you guys are really excited about the performance but you need to calm down so that I can get everything set up so you can make your parents proud. Can you all do that?"
The children all nodded their heads.
"Great. First, I'll take roll." Mina called out everyone's name and marked a check next to it when they said that they were here. When she was done, there were three kids who were missing. Worriment was labeled all over her face. "Where are these three?!"
"Who?" Sasha asked.
"Bailey the Bee, Ninjask the Chameleon, and Lolly the Alligator!"
"You mean Team Mischief?"
"Is that what they call themselves?" Mina asked, sweat dropping, "It figures, they are the cousins of Team Chaotix."
"They probably forgot what to do; Bailey has a really bad memory and he's the leader."
"On God," Mina groaned, smacking her head. "I'll be right back, don't make a sound." She ran out of the room and down the isle, frantically looking for the Chaotix so that maybe they could find the three missing children.
She noticed Rosie on the other side of the Theatre and was going to ask her for help but it seemed as if she was busy. It looked like she was pulling someone toward the room on the other isle but she had no time to focus her thoughts on that.
A gray chipmunk, which Mina recognized as the owner of the Theatre, walked up to her handed her the phone he was carrying. "It's a phone call for you from Mrs. Rabbit. She says it's something about missing kids."
"Thank you." Mina said as she took the phone. "Hello?"
"Is this Mina?" Asked the voice through the phone.
"Yes. Vanilla it's me."
"Oh, good, I wasn't sure."
"So, what is it that you called me about?"
"Have you noticed three kids missing?"
"Yes! Do you know where they are?"
"They came by caroling a few minutes ago. I asked them if they were apart of the performance and they said that they were. They thought that they were supposed to meet up with everyone in the streets and not at the Theatre."
"So." Mina sighed, "Where are they now?"
"They are on their way at this very moment."
"That's great!" Mina said, "Thank you so much for telling me. I can't thank you enough."
"I'm sure it's very stressful for you to be running this show."
"You're telling me! Rosie isn't even helping me when she supposed to. I wonder what the things she had to do are.I'm the one who really needs help."
"I can't answer that one for you," Vanilla laughed, "Before I forget, Cream wanted me to ask you if you have had any luck yet?"
"Well.I'm doing fine right now," Mina said, sulking "but no luck so far."
"I see.I'm not exactly sure what that means but I'm hope whatever you are hoping for will come true. Everyone deserves to be happy on Christmas Eve."
"Thank you, Vanilla." Mina said, smiling.
"No problem. I'd better let you go now."
After Vanilla hung up, Mina heard the pitter patter of Team Mischief as they ran down the aisle at full speed. The three crashed right into Mina causing her to fall over with the three on top of her.
"Why hello, Bailey, Lolly, Ninjask." Mina grumbled, rubbing the tender spot on her head.
"Oh, Mina! Where are so sorry for being late!" Lolly cried, "It was Bailey's fault for messing up the information!"
"Hey!" Bailey cried, grinding his teeth.
"Calm down." Ninjask whined.
Suddenly, the three jumped on each other and started fighting. Lolly bit Bailey's wing with her big mouth, Bailey hit Ninjask who was trying to stop them from fighting, and so on.
"Hey!" Mina yelled, getting to her feet, "Break it up right now or I'll call your cousins over. I don't think you would want to mess with them." The three stopped midway and stared at her with big eyes. "That's better." Mina sighed, brushing back a piece of hair. "It wasn't just Bailey's fault. All of you went to the practices and should have known the correct information. Anyway, get into the band room over there, I'll be there shortly."
"Y-Yes, Mina." They said, running for their refuge.
Mina sighed heavily and looked around the almost filled room. She saw Team Chaotix sitting near the back and wondered what it would have been like telling them of their younger cousins mess up. "It's almost time for the show, I better get them ready."
---
"Who's got a beard that's long and white Santa's got a beard that's long and white,
Who comes around on a special night Santa comes around on a special night,
Special night, beard that's white,
Must be Santa Must be Santa Must be Santa, Santa Clause!"
"The show's coming along great!" Rosie exclaimed, patting Mina's back. "Look at them on stage; they look so happy!"
Indeed they did. Every face smiled proudly as they sang the songs they practiced so long to learn. The parents in the audience looked adoringly at their children as parents always do. Even Team Mischief was able to keep there cool except for a few jabs between Bailey and Lolly.
"Must be Santa Must be Santa Must be Santa, Santa Clause!"
The song ended and the kids took their bow, followed by an explosion of clapping from the audience. As the last kid left the stage, Rosie walked onto it. She took one of the mikes from the side of the stage and put it in the middle. By then, the children found their families and waited for the final announcements to be made.
"Once again, Hello everyone!" Rosie said, "I'm so happy that you and your children could make it out here tonight to truly make this carol spectacular. I'd like to thank the children who participated in this carol for a job well done." Some whistles from the children sounded from the crowd. "And parents, I thank you for coming out here to see your children perform."
She took a breath and continued. "But, I would especially like to thank the person who made this caroling possible. Without her, this caroling simply wouldn't have happened. She put together the practices and arranged everything to make this happen and it is also her first time doing so. This person is Mina Mongoose."
Mina, standing on the side of the stage, still hidden, blushed crazily as a loud applause came from the audience. She also heard the familiar 'whoots' from Lolly, Bailey and Ninjask.
"Normally," Rosie continued, "We would thank her by giving her flowers and have her walk out on stage. This time will be different though. Someone else has volunteered to do something special for Mina."
Mina stared at Rosie, mouthing, "What?" but getting no response. Rosie winked.
" He will be singing 'Merry Christmas Darling'. So, without further ado, please give a warm welcome to Shadow the Hedgehog!"
As the ebony figure stepped out onto the stage, Mina nearly fainted and fell backwards! She couldn't believe it; Shadow chose her!
He stepped up to the mike and slightly nodded, noting that he was going to sing. When the first note strung, he sang:
"Greeting cards have just been sent, The Christmas rush is through, But I still have one more wish to make A special one for you..."
Rosie walked off the stage with a humongous grin on her face. "Great surprise, huh?" Mina, not hearing her, stood open-mouthed at the performance. Rosie shrugged and took a seat on an empty chair lying in the corner.
Merry Christmas Darling. We're apart that's true. But I can dream and in my dreams, I'm Christmas-ing with you..."
Shadow slightly blushed as he sung but it couldn't be seen from underneath his dark features. He closed his eyes as he belted out a verse.
Holidays are joyful, There's always something new, But every day's a holiday When I'm near to you..."
"I can't believe it. I can't believe it." Mina repeated through her head. It was amazing; the fact that he was singing for her in front of all those people. She could never find the courage to do that if she didn't already have practice being on stage. She thought of her courage, if any, and how she could tell him before this night was over. She closed her eyes to calm herself down and listened to his voice. He had the sweetest voice.
The lights on my tree, I wish you could see, I wish it every day, The logs on the fire Fill me with desire, To see you and say..."
Lolly giggled when Shadow stepped on stage; thinking about Mina's reaction. She felt that Mina really deserved to have this kind of surprise for Christmas. Frankly, Mina was the only one who was surprised. Shadow had told Rosie ahead of time of what he wanted to do. Rosie told them and, of course, they told their families. "I hope my crush will do something like this for me one day." Lolly sighed, looking at Bailey. "Maybe I shouldn't hit him as much."
That I wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year too, I've just one wish for Christmas On this Christmas Eve, I wish I were with you I wish I were with you!"
When Shadow finished the last verse he got a standing ovation. Everyone clapped wildly and a few of the children cheered.
That's when he finally got to look at Mina. She dressed up for the occasion and she looked very pretty. It's too bad his present had to be a surprise otherwise he would have complemented her when he got there. Unfortunately, Rosie grabbed him before he could step in the door; dragging him down the other isle to a room to wait at. He swore Mina had seen him but apparently not; the ecstatic look on her face proved otherwise.
When he walked off the stage Mina jumped into his arms; completely forgetting her shyness for the moment. She hugged him tight and he hugged her back. With her head pressed against his shoulder and starting to cry, she uttered, "That was amazing.T-Thank you so much." Shadow smiled to himself and hugged her tighter, "So, I take it you liked my present."
"Y-Yes!" She cried, "What would make you think otherwise?"
"I don't know." He laughed, realizing what a dumb question he asked. He let her go and looked at her. Her eyes were puffy from there crying and her lipstick was a bit smudged; he hated to think some got on his jacket but he could always wash it clean. "How about we go for a walk in the city; the night is still young. What do you think?"
"Sure." Mina replied, smiling. "Let me just go down and finish with the closing up the Theatre; the kids mad a mess in the band room."
-----
Mina sighed heavily as she picked up scraps of confetti off the band room floor. She hated to think where they came not the music books.
"Knock, knock," Rosie said, closing the door behind her. She wore a huge grin on her face.
"Don't act so full of yourself, Rosie." Mina grinned.
"I'll try." Rosie laughed, "So what's the plan now? I heard you are going into to city for a bit."
"Yes." Mina replied, "I'm so nervous."
"What's there to be nervous about?" She asked, picking up some scraps.
"I still have to tell him those three words." Mina said, blushing.
"Oh, that's right. You're not out of the woods yet," Rosie said, flatly. "Yep, even after all of that, he still doesn't know that you love him. He only answered to the bet unlike every other guy."
"That's because Sonic, Knuckles and Tails already know that Amy, Rouge and Cream love them. Shadow doesn't know a thing." Mina sighed.
"Then let him know! Stop torturing yourself for no reason." Rosie groaned. She grabbed Mina by the arm and made her stand up. "I'll handle the rest of this room. Go have a good time. But don't expect everything to go the way you planned."
---
"So, you really liked the present I gave you?" Mina asked, looking down at her shoes as she and Shadow walked along the sidewalk in the city. She was so nervous, excited and scared-worst of all; she couldn't find anything to talk about. Shadow was fine with the awkward silence but she wasn't.
"Of course." Shadow smiled. He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out the little doll. "I'll carry it whenever I can."
"She must have meant a lot to you." Mina remarked, already knowing it to be true. She watched a snowflake land on the ground.
"She was my only friend and she was very kind." Shadow replied, staring at the doll "I often feel like I shouldn't be here and she should. Ever since I can remember, Maria has always wanted to go. I was as intrigued about the planet but she was born there; everyone wants to go back to the place they were born at some point. I just think it should be her here and not me."
"So you have a lot of regrets and you think you could have saved her." Mina contemplated, "From the story you told, I don't believe you could have done a thing. I don't think she blamed you. I mean, you were made to save the planet and that duty came above all else so it was more important to her to send you off then worry about her own life."
Shadow stopped and looked at her with puzzlement.
Mina smiled, slowly gaining her courage, "I can understand because I've felt helpless. I wasn't able to do anything when Eggman kidnapped my mother and turned her into a robot. Sure, she didn't die but the fact that she was now distanced and not the scared me. I too am filled with many I brought upon is a difference."
"I'm sorry," Shadow replied, not finding anything better to say. He was still amazed at how much she knew about the way he felt and yet she didn't go through the same thing.
"Really, it's alright," Mina laughed, seeing him thinking, "As you know, my mother is now de-robotized and everything's okay."
Shadow smiled and took her hand. They walked about a block more deep in thought, wondering what to say, what to do. Just going out somewhere with one person was a new experience for Shadow. Mina had never gone out with a guy before although she spent many days chasing after one.
Mina felt her courage reaching it's peak as she held his hand and she was now itching to tell him what she wanted to say for so long. She took a little breath and looked at Shadow. "I have to tell you something really important."
"Hmmm?" Shadow asked, looking down from his thoughts. He couldn't imagine what else she could say to him but he was ready to listen.
"...since I participated in this bet, I've been thinking about my feelings a lot," She mumbled, slightly smiling because she felt her words sounded corny. "Well, what I mean to say is, I already knew what my feelings were but I didn't feel I could ever say them. As I worked harder and met my rival, I realized how important it was to voice my opinion, which I'm not used to doing." She smiled, "When I saw you up on stage, I couldn't believe you were actually there. That took so much courage, more than I can ever think to do but I do have to say." She paused, "...that I love you."
Shadow felt like his mind just rammed into the side of his head. "When did she love me? Where was I? How did that come about?"
"Uh, I had a crush on you for a long time." Mina whispered, seeing that he wasn't replying. She started to get scared. "It's not something I expect you to answer right away since I took you by surprise.I don't want to ruin this night or anything."
"Your right," Shadow replied, rubbing his head, "I'm sure what to say."
Mina started to tremble; she didn't like the tone of his voice. He started to walk and his grip on her hand loosened. She gently laid it on his arm to show she was still there the crowds were getting heavy.
"'t know anything." Shadow mumbled, "...about why you love I can't." Shadow was so deep in thought; he didn't notice that Mina let go of his arm and that her feet no longer walked next to his. By the time he crossed an intersection he noticed she was no longer there.
---
"Run! Just run away!"
That was the voice inside her head as she ran from Shadow. She couldn't- just couldn't explain to him why she loved him. It was just too complicated. She didn't have any courage left to tell him anything, to defend herself. She felt like a scared rabbit when she heard those last few words-she was afraid to hear 'no'. She stopped in an empty alley and slid down the wall with her face covered in her hands, her hands covered in her tears. She hated herself. She couldn't do anything. There were so many reasons why she loved Shadow but they sounded stupid when they rolled off her tongue when she practiced in the mirror. She was a wimp, a loser, and an idiot. She silently cried.
A figure stepped through the narrow way of the alley with a cackling laughter. When the moon shown on the figure, it turned out to be Shaniska. "I knew I would find you here after getting dumped." She looked down at her. "Everyone comes here when they are sad. I do when my parents drive me insane."
"You must have a sad life, then" Mina mumbled through her hands.
"So why cry?" Shaniska asked, ignoring the last comment, "You won the bet, so why are you crying? Is it because he hated your present anyway?"
"I lost," Mina cried.
"I don't get it!" Shaniska growled, "It's just a stupid bet!"
"That's where you're wrong," Mina, said. " Maybe for you and your friends but not for us, not for me. You were just doing it for Sally, We did it because we loved the guys we made presents for."
".him." Shaniska uttered, speechless, "You mean, it wasn't just a game?"
---
Shadow quickly ran back the way he came, looking through the crowds to see if he could find Mina. It seemed as if the amount of people on the street doubled and he found himself pushing through some groups.
He knew why she left- she was afraid that his answer was going to be 'no'. She was far from the truth. He didn't have time to think when she confessed to him, who would? He tried to sort out his thoughts and give her some words so that she would stay but not get her hopes up because he wasn't sure what his feelings were. "This is no good," He muttered, "I can't look for her with my brain racked like this." He stopped and leaned against a store window, feeling it's cool hit his back. He breathed heavily but then smiled, "This must be what Maria meant when she was talking about a 'heavenly burden'. It means that this is a decision or suffering that everyone wants to have happen to them. I guess I should be lucky."
--
"Now it's time to open your presents!" Tails squealed, grabbing two boxes from the crate. "Here, open this one, it's from Shaniska."
"Why hers first?" Shadow asked.
"Because you have to save the best for last!" Tails said, shoving the presents in his face. Knuckles and Sonic snickered.
"I wouldn't laugh if I were you," Shadow said, unwrapping Shaniska's present, "Oh, this is interesting."
"What is it?" Sonic asked.
Shadow held up two pieces of paper. They were two tickets to a rock concert that was happening in a couple days. Shadow looked grimly at the tickets, he wasn't impressed.
"You don't like them?" Knuckles asked, "At least they aren't cookies. You might have a good time."
"I don't think so." Shadow sighed, "I don't listen to music besides our game CDs. It's not that I don't like music."
"Yeah, yeah, because Maria used to sing to you and she had the most beautiful voice." Sonic said, grinning. "You know Mina has a pretty voice too. Natural born talent I say. I should know, I was the one who first got her on stage."
"Hey! How 'bout you open Mina's present?" Tails asked, glancing at Cream's present. "I wonder what she made you? No one really knows what you like."
"Yeah, I was stumped when looking for your present." Sonic added.
"Well, I hope I don't find an I.O.U. in there." Shadow smirked; knowing that that is what Sonic probably had planned. While unwrapping Mina's gift, he mumbled, "It's not that it's hard to know what I want because I don't even know myself. I've had little time spent here and I haven't even found a hobby."
"That explains it." Knuckles added.
Shadow opened the package and it brought a true smile to his face. There was a little doll of Maria placed in the middle of the box. It looked almost exactly like Maria and the craftsmanship was amazing. There was also a note inside that said:
"I hope you enjoy having your best friend around you all the time- Mina"
--
Shadow smiled and thought of why decided to sing for Mina's present. First of all, he didn't know what she liked. Even talking to Isabella didn't help.
It seemed the only things Mina was and had been interested in were Sonic, singing and her family. He couldn't think of anything related to family for a present unless cloning her dad was involved- not that having a walking carbon copy would please her. From what he knew, Mina's Sonic chasing days were over so there was no need to do anything involving him.
From seeing Sonic's presents he knew that Sonic had a big decision to make and he couldn't ask his friend to do something for Mina. So what was left but singing? Shadow felt like a hypocrite at first because he didn't like Shaniska's music gift and yet he was using music for his present. But there was a reason for using it that totally convinced him to sing to her.
He knew that no one had ever sung for her ever since her talent for singing was recognized. He had a feeling that she would enjoy someone singing to her. Shadow had on idea how bad or good his voice was and since he didn't know much about what a decent voice was, he couldn't tell. As he practiced his Christmas song he hoped that his voice sounded appealing enough for at least her; he didn't want to embarrass himself.
It turns out his singing was better than he had hoped for, and he was grateful for that. He could still remember the look on her face when he finished singing. It really made his heart flip over. He felt- he couldn't believe it- like grabbing her and kissing her right there but he calmed himself down to just a hug.
What he felt must have been some form of true love or love at first sight. It wasn't the first time he had seen her so it had to be a mix of both. Maria and even Dr. Gerald had told him about this. As much as he wanted to believe it he found he just couldn't. He didn't believe it was possible to look at someone just once and want to be with them forever; he never thought it would happen to him of all people. But he realized that it did. That was the feeling he had felt.
Shadow sighed, "Now that I have my feelings straightened out, I can tell her the truth." He skated the through the crowds and swiftly dodged everyone that crossed his path. He was sure she would be drying so he listened for even a slight whisper. His ears were good; almost as good as Rouges-wait! Shadow stopped short just in time to see a cute scene unfold across the street. It was Rouge and Knuckles and they were kissing! "I defiantly don't want to disturb them now," Shadow grinned, "I have my own bet winner to find." It was good that he saw them; it gave Shadow more courage. 'If Knuckles could do it then so can I. After all, I'm the ultimate life form.' He sped off.
---
"You mean to say." Shaniska trailed off. She stood awkwardly in front of Mina.
"All of us are in love with the guys we gave our presents to." Mina sniffed, not believing that Shaniska had no idea about this.
"Sally told us it was friendly competition," Shaniska insisted, "She said that you guys picked randomly a guy to give a present to. It was to prove that homemade gifts were better that store-brought. I personally think that store-brought gifts are better, so that's why I got involved."
"Well, Sally was lying." Mina said, "I don't get why you were saying all those things about Shadow though."
"Oh, that?" Shaniska grinned, "I was telling the truth about that. I figured while I was here I could get some- not knowing the truth of course."
"It doesn't matter though, I won the bet but I didn't win his heart. That's the only thing that matters to me." Mina cried, burying her face in her hands.
Shaniska noticed someone standing right outside the alley and smirked because she knew who it was. "So tell me, why do you like Shadow?"
"They sound stupid, you won't want to hear them." Mina sobbed.
"Don't tell me you're chicken?" Shaniska prodded.
She was not a chicken or at least she hoped she wasn't. If she could tell Shaniska, even her friends, how could she tell Shadow himself? She buried her head in her hands but her words could be heard clearly.
Shaniska took this chance and backed out of the alley, smiling at Shadow as she left, "I hope you know what to do now."
Shadow slowly walked into the alley and sat next to Mina, putting his hand over her shoulder.
Mina thought that it was still Shaniska so she didn't look up and continued what she was going to say, "Well, I love how Shadow is so polite and kind to people when they truly deserve it. I love how strong he is when he's in battle as if nothing would stop him from winning. I love how he feels he never has to prove himself to anyone and he doesn't try to be one of the crowd." She smiled, "I love the expressions in his eyes whenever he's feeling something and I love how his quills move when he's standing still. I love that tuft of hair on his chest and his armlets-everything about him." She paused and coughed, "This sounds really corny."
"Maybe," Shadow said, not being able to contain himself much longer, "But at least I know how you feel." He heard her gasp and gently lifted her head from its hiding place. Her tear-stained face stared back at him in shock but her tears started to let up when she saw the warmth in this crimson eyes. "That' wasn't so hard." He added, hugging her to his chest.
"Yes, it was," She cried into his chest, resting her head on his chest hair. "I don't have courage like you do."
"You do have it," Shadow whispered, "You just don't know how to use it."
"Maybe I can try to use it now." Mina whispered back. Trembling like crazy, she closed her eyes and brought her face closer to his.
Shadow knew what was coming next but he didn't want to help her out by locking with her first. She said she wanted to use her courage so he respected that; he would wait there forever until she made it to him. He did, however, lift her arms off his shoulders and had her wrap her arms around his neck, clinging to his quills.
Still trembling with fear and anticipation, she lightly brushed against his soft lips.
Shadow kissed her back and held her close to him; once and a while opening his eyes to see hers flutter and closing them again to hear her sigh. Sonic was right, she had the beautiful voice, no matter what she was doing. He pressed his lips firmly against hers and deepened the kiss. He felt his body take control and he broke the kiss and slid down her neck; his mind addicted to her soft moans. After kissing her collarbone he gently held her to him and enjoyed this new feeling he had growing inside of him.
Mina on the other hand, was in perfect bliss. She couldn't have imagined a more perfect kiss and she was proud of herself for finding the courage to start it. She realized there was a major difference between this kiss and the one she forced on Sonic. All she had felt then was a slight spark when their lips met but nothing more. She thought it was because he didn't enjoy it that she didn't so that's why she didn't give up. But the kiss she had with Shadow proved that this was true love, not puppy love. She snuggled into Shadow's chest and murmured, "I love you, Shadow."
And Shadow, no longer confused but glad she had said it again, replied, "I love you too, Mina."