Disclaimer: I don't own Final Fantasy, Square Enix, the characters, etc.

Author's Note: This is a Rikku/Paine fic, so if you're not into these kinda pairings, sorry. Just looking for a challenge. I'm new at this so, please Read and Review. And don't flame me. Thanks!!

Chapter 1- Your Secrets, My Lies

Paine stood at the edge of the deck on the Celsius, her arms folded. She was enjoying the alone time, and the quiet. It had been a while since she joined the Gullwings, and there was never a dull moment. Not with Rikku on the team. She stared out into the clear blue sky, the wind whipping through her short silvery hair.

"Hey there! Whatcha doin'?"

Paine turned around and blinked. She then answered with her usual toneless voice.

"Rikku… You know better than to sneak up on me like that."

Rikku practically skip-walked over to Paine, grinning widely. Her emerald eyes were twinkling. She laughed her usual high-pitched laugh which always agitated Paine.

"You were not yourself this morning. So I thought I'd come check up on you."

"I'm fine, Rikku."

"C'mon, Dr. P. You know you can trust me."

"It's really nothing. Call me that again and it's 45 for you."

"Awwww, That's not fair! Paine!!! I was just concerned, ya know…" Rikku looked down, feeling hurt.

"I'll tell you when something's bothering me, okay." Paine started to feel guilty.

"You promise?" Rikku looked up at Paine.

"Yeah. Thanks anyway. For caring about me." Paine said softly.

I'm turning into a real softie. Thanks to her. This girl really does have an effect on me.

Rikku grinned and winked. "No problem, Dr.—Oops, natural slip of the tongue." She giggled. "You know, I have to tell you something anyway." She started to blush, avoiding eye contact with the crimson-eyed girl standing right in front of her.

"What now…" Paine noticed Rikku's sudden change of expression.

"I—"

"Cbrana fyjac lusehk vnus Gemegy Ecmyht. Gullwings!! Nabund du dra pnetka essateydamo!"

"Tell me later, kay? We got a sphere to find."

Rikku sighed. "But—Oh, alright. Let's get that sphere!!! Mycd uha yd dra pnetka ec y cdehgo vmyh!"

Translations: Translation: Brother: Sphere waves coming from Kilika Island. Gullwings!! Report to the bridge immediately!

Rikku: Last one at the bridge is a stinky flan!