Chapter Text
Muse A: So final Chapter Volume 2, and the new year's chapter at that, well, not a bad way to go out with things huh?
Muse B: Yep, sounds about right, and I noticed Yorktown of course, the writer has a real weak spot for her huh?
Muse A: Yep, very much so, it is his favorite kansen. Okay, let's get to it, the New Year’s Chapter.
Muse B: Grabs the popcorn Ready to go!
Commander James Lewis stood before the door of the most beautiful, most compassionate, most loyal person he had ever known—his ever-present partner in crime. His kansen, Yorktown. It was New Year’s Eve, a perfect excuse to treat the white-haired beauty standing behind the door to something special—a night that was just for her.
He glanced down at his polished shoes and adjusted his black suit, a small attempt to steady himself before taking a deep breath. Despite knowing and working with Yorktown for years, the thought of seeing her dressed to the nines had his heart beating quickly. A nervous excitement bubbled within him—almost like a schoolboy about to go on his first date. But this wasn’t just a crush. His logical mind reminded him that what he felt for the sweet woman standing beyond the door was something much deeper.
James exhaled slowly, steeling himself before raising a hand to knock on the door. The sound of his knuckles against the wood echoed faintly in the stillness of the evening. He lingered there, his fingers brushing the seams of his black suit pockets as the moments stretched out. Each passing second seemed heavier, his anticipation building—not from uncertainty but from the weight of how much this evening meant to him.
When the door opened, James found himself briefly breathless. Yorktown greeted him with a soft, radiant smile that made the rest of the world fade into the background. Her black dress was simple yet carried an effortless grace, the subtle accents of blue seeming to reflect the serene brilliance of her eyes. Her silver hair, unbound for once, flowed freely over her shoulders, catching the faint glow of the hallway lights.
“Good evening, James,” she said warmly, her voice light but steady. “You’ve outdone yourself tonight. This suit really suits you.”
James blinked, then let out a quiet chuckle as he scratched the back of his neck. “I don’t think anything I’m wearing compares to how incredible you look, Yorktown.” He hesitated, his words more heartfelt than polished. “You always have this way of looking… perfect. Like you don’t even have to try.”
Hearing those words from the man she loved more than any other caused the kansen to feel shy and blush a fair bit as well. She looked at him, handsome as ever, kind as ever, and her perfect partner. “Thank you. That’s sweet of you to say.” She adjusted the hem of her dress as though brushing off the compliment, but there was no hiding the softness in her expression. “Shall we? It’s a beautiful night, and I’d hate to miss it.”
James stepped aside to offer her his arm. “Absolutely. Tonight’s all yours.”
Yorktown looped her arm through his, her touch warm and steady, but she gave him a sidelong glance as they started down the corridor. “And yours, James. Don’t forget that. You deserve this too.”
He paused mid-step, glancing down at her, and the earnestness in her gaze made him smile—a small, lopsided grin that carried no pretense. “That’s just like you to say,” he murmured. “Always finding a way to share the moment.”
As they walked into the crisp night air, the faint sounds of the city in the distance, James felt the weight of his earlier nerves dissipate. Yorktown’s presence had a way of grounding him, and in her company, even the smallest moments felt monumental.
Looking down at the port below, James could see other kansen bustling about, their commanders escorting them for the evening. The bond between a commander and his kansen was something extraordinary, an unspoken connection that often shaped both their professional success and personal lives. He had heard countless theories about how a kansen’s awakening was linked to her emotions, to the depth of the relationship she shared with her commander. Perhaps that was why such closeness was not only permitted but encouraged.
But as James walked beside Yorktown, none of that seemed to matter. Titles, power, and the notion of awakening felt distant and irrelevant. To him, Yorktown wasn’t just a superpowered kansen—she was Yorktown. The best woman he had ever known. Being near her felt like stepping into sunlight, a warmth and joy that made him feel whole. It wasn’t just admiration; it was comfort, security, and the quiet certainty that she felt the same.
His gaze drifted upward, tracing the scattered stars in the vast, moonless sky. With the port lights dimmed for the evening, the celestial display felt even more vivid, each pinpoint of light burning brightly. Ahead of them, the soft glow of the docks shimmered, where the night would eventually be crowned by fireworks welcoming the new year.
“My dear,” James began, his voice warm and steady as he glanced at her from the corner of his eye. “I’ve got us a reservation at that new pizza place by the docks. I thought we could share a pizza, enjoy some drinks, and then stay to watch the fireworks. Ring in the new year with the most beautiful and sweet woman in the world. For me, it’s perfect.” He paused, a teasing smile tugging at his lips. “I just hope you don’t mind putting up with me for the night.”
Yorktown laughed softly, the sound light and melodic, but James wasn’t done. He stopped walking for a moment, turning toward her to drive home his last point.
“And one more thing,” he added, his tone turning slightly playful. “No alcohol for you tonight. I want you to remember every moment of this evening, Yorktown. You don’t need false courage—not tonight, not ever.”
Yorktown looked at him, her blue eyes reflecting the starlight as she tilted her head in mock protest. “James, I don’t think I’ve ever needed courage to spend time with you.”
Her words, simple yet sincere, settled over him like a soft breeze, and James could only smile. The night had only just begun, but for him, standing there with Yorktown, it already felt perfect.
As they walked down the hill toward the port, James couldn’t help but notice how Yorktown’s presence seemed to draw attention without her even trying. The soft glow of the streetlights caught the silver of her hair as they joined the lively throng on the main street. Vendors called out, selling warm treats and trinkets, their voices blending with bursts of laughter and the hum of anticipation. James glanced at Yorktown, catching the faint, serene smile on her lips as she took in the scene. Tonight wasn’t just about the fireworks or the festivities—it was about them, and he felt it in every step they took together.
James greeted a few familiar faces as they passed, his easy smile and polite nods showing the warmth he felt being part of the community. He even waved to Hornet, who was striding confidently down the street. The tomboyish, twin-tailed blonde was with her own commander that night, their lively banter audible even over the surrounding chatter.
The restaurant James had chosen came into view—a charming, cozy spot nestled against the shoreline. Its back patio promised an unobstructed view of the harbor, where the fireworks would soon paint the sky in dazzling colors. He already knew that New Jersey, Victorious, U-73, An Shan, L'Opiniâtre, and Enterprise were hard at work setting up the show, ensuring it would leave everyone in awe.
Crossing the threshold, James let the subtle warmth of the restaurant embrace them, the golden light casting a soft glow on Yorktown’s features. Looking over at her, he found her as entranting as ever this night, and felt so very blessed.
Soon, James breathed in deeply as they stepped inside, catching the scent of freshly baked pizza mingling with the faint tang of sea air wafting through the open patio doors. He glanced at Yorktown, watching as her gaze shifted toward the kitchen’s open flames.
A flicker of amusement crossed her face as she murmured, “It smells like a promise of good memories waiting to happen, don’t you think?” Her words made him smile—only Yorktown could make something as ordinary as pizza feel extraordinary.
Nodding his head, he walked through the establishment, still hand in hand with Yorktown, as they headed to the back patio for their reserved seat, which was waiting.Walking, out the pair could feel the cool northern wind that rolled over the water of the port.
Yorktown released James’ hand as she walked ahead. James watched as Yorktown’s fingers grazed the edge of the table as would be having their meal at. He watched as he could see that her touch was light and thoughtful. The soft glow of the candle in the center reflected in her eyes, adding warmth to her already serene expression.
Finding his seat across from her. James looked at Yorktown as he could see that her gaze had wandered to the harbor, James followed it, noting how the starlight danced across the rippling water.
“They’ve outdone themselves tonight,” she said softly, her tone filled with contentment and joy.
James nodded his head as he looked over at her, nodding in agreement. He felt it was still his place to ask the obvious question, but he was sure that the answer. The look she gave when she looked out to sea told him basically everything. His question would only confirm the truth.
“What do you think, Yorktown?” he asked, his tone warm and tinged with curiosity. A smile played on his lips as he gestured to the setup. “Does this live up to your expectations?”
Yorktown’s gaze swept across the view, her blue eyes reflecting the harbor lights like twin sapphires. She turned back to him with a gentle smile, her voice soft yet sincere. “It’s perfect, James. But honestly, I never doubted it would be. Anywhere with you feels perfect.”
James felt more confident just from her words. He smiled shyly as he blushed himself a fair bit. "You always know how to say something to cause my heart to skip a beat, my dear."
"Of course, I know you all so well my adorable, and sweet man," Yorktown replied as she smiled at him.
James felt happy, a sense of joy, admiration all at once. He felt he had found the right place for him; the place he belonged. He heard the door open and looked as he saw the meowofficer somehow bringing a tray with two large sodas on it, served in a frosty large mug. James leaned over and helped the short robot cat waiter as he took the glasses and put them on the table before the cat let out an adorable meow and took its leave. A few moments later, the cat would return with a lovely pepperoni pizza on the tray, one that was cooked to a golden perfection, and smelt delicious too.
As the cute orange robot cat took its leave. James leaned forward slightly, resting his arms on the table. “So,” he began, gesturing toward the pizza with a playful grin, “I’ve been hearing from some of the other commanders—and even a few kansen—that this place has the best pepperoni pizza on the base. Figured tonight was as good a time as any to see if it’s true.”
His eyes lingered on Yorktown, watching as she delicately picked up a slice, the soft smile on her face making his own grow wider. “What do you think?” he asked, his tone light but curious.
Yorktown took a small bite, her expression thoughtful as she savored the flavors. It was as good as she had heard from her sisters, who had both been there on dates before. She was very happy to finally be on a date of her own with her beloved commander. She looked at him with a smile. "I give it my seal of approval," she said with a playful smile. "Coming here was a great choice, James."
Hearing Yorktown's reaction to the pizza, James couldn't help but want to try a bite himself. He took a slice and lifted it before taking a solid bite. As he tasted the blend of flavors in his mouth, he couldn't help but love it. There was something rather comforting about the food he was having. It was simple but still so tasty.
The two of them sat at the table as they continued to eat with a silent appreciation for the moment. Taking in the atmosphere, the lovely pizza with the homemade soda, that paired so great with the taste of the pizza. Everything was very serene and lovely. As they ate there was this quiet silence and unspoken warmth that enveloped the table.
Slice after slice disappeared, their glasses of soda slowly emptying, until James found himself leaning back slightly, savoring the moment. He glanced at Yorktown, who looked utterly serene, her soft smile reflecting the peace he felt.
Yet, despite that and maybe because of him not completely realizing how natural the silence was. James felt awkward, as if he were making some mistake by being silent or causing Yorktown to have a less fun time with him. He paused for a moment before he spoke. "I am sorry, I really have been quiet tonight, and I guess, it is because around you I don't feel like I have to all the time. I guess on a date like this it is expected to talk more." James reasoned before he paused for a moment in deep thought.
Seeing this, Yorktown waited to reply as she could tell he had more he wanted to say. She waited to hear it with a soft, kind and patient look in her eyes watching him and listening to him carefully.
“I’ve never been the most talkative guy,” he admitted, a small, sheepish smile tugging at his lips. “And I’ve never been great at small talk, either. But thank you—for being here with me tonight. For putting up with me.” He paused again, exhaling as he gathered his thoughts.
“You know, I’m not the most charismatic or outgoing person,” he said, his tone softening. “I know I’m not the coolest commander out there, either. I get nervous, I worry about doing the wrong thing, at the wrong time. I am not the cool commander who has a ton of bravado. To be honest, sometimes, I just feel like I am faking it, and putting on a show, that I am just fumbling my way through life, lucky to be here." He continued his emotions upfront as he knew he was being an idiot and most likely messing up. He looked up into Yorktown's beautiful blue eyes and felt a sense of comfort from their gaze alone. “Even with all of that, you’ve stayed by my side. And that’s what made this past year special for me.”
Yorktown’s smile widened, her gentle warmth wrapping around him like a comforting embrace. She reached across the table, placing her hand lightly over his. “James,” she said softly, “you don’t have to be anyone but yourself. James, you by yourself are more than enough for me. You are smarter, cooler, and more kind than any other man I know, and I am happy you're my partner.”
Her words melted the tension in his chest, leaving behind only gratitude, love and affection. In that moment, with the stars above and the quiet hum of the harbor around them, James felt that perhaps this night was perfect after all.
As the final slices of pizza vanished, James leaned back slightly in his chair, the edges of his nerves worn smooth by the evening’s quiet rhythm. He glanced at Yorktown, who had taken to tracing small patterns on the rim of her glass, her gaze shifting between him and the glittering harbor below.
The first firework streaked into the air, its golden burst reflected in the calm waters. James’s attention flicked upward, but before he could comment, Yorktown stood from her seat. Her movements were unhurried but deliberate, her shawl slipping down her shoulders as she stepped to his side.
“Yorktown?” James asked, tilting his head slightly.
Without a word, she placed her hands lightly on his shoulders, her expression soft but resolute. She moved with the same quiet grace she always carried, easing onto his lap as though it were the most natural thing in the world.
James froze, his breath catching as she adjusted herself, her arm resting along his shoulder while her other hand brushed against his. “You don’t mind, do you?” she asked, her voice low, the faintest tease laced in her tone.
He managed a chuckle, his hands hovering awkwardly before settling at her waist. “Mind? No, I, uh—this is… unexpected.”
Yorktown tilted her head, her silver hair framing her face as her eyes searched his. “Unexpected?” she echoed, her voice carrying a note of amusement. “James, I’ve been giving you hints all year. Did you really think I wasn’t going to make the first move eventually?”
A laugh bubbled out of him, soft and disbelieving. “I thought I was supposed to be the bold one tonight.”
She smiled, leaning in slightly. “Consider this a team effort.”
The fireworks above intensified, streaks of color and light cascading across the night sky. James's focus was not on the beautiful light show and explosions outside. No, they were on the beautiful woman next to him. He looked at her. He was so amazed by her this night. It was such a big one for them. He also knew it was his time to be bold too.
“Yorktown,” he murmured, as he mentally prepared himself for his bold act for the night.
“Yes, James?” she replied, a bit of curiosity in her soft tone.
He hesitated for only a moment before leaning in, his hand brushing lightly against her cheek as their lips met. It wasn’t dramatic or hurried; it was steady, deliberate, and filled with the quiet certainty they’d both been circling around for months.
When they finally pulled apart, she rested her forehead against his, her fingers curling lightly around his. “Happy New Year, James,” she said, her voice carrying a rare hint of vulnerability.
James smiled, the last of his nervousness melting away as he gazed back at her. “Happy New Year, Yorktown. And… thank you.”
“For what?”
“For being exactly who you are.”
Above them, the grand finale lit up the sky, but neither of them looked away from each other. For James, the stars and fireworks were just a backdrop to the moment that mattered most.