ones

Cherished Ones

Disclaimer: I don't own digimon so please don't sue me. I do, however, own all of those guardian characters that I made up. Okay???

Author's note: I thought of this story in a very strange way. Don't ask me why. The Digidestined are all screwed up in this story. No, I didn't change their character. What I mean is that they all have their troubles in life, and at this point, are going over the edge.


**~**

Who am I? Matt kept asking himself that very question several times until he got frustrated. He never did show his anger, so instead of throwing a tantrum like Tai might, he clenched his fists into a ball and breathed deeply.

There was a knock at the door. Matt didn't bother acknowledging it, but he knew that his dad would come in anyway. He knew it was his dad because who else could it be?

His thoughts were confirmed when the door opened, revealing the tired face of his father. He wore a scruffy looking, white collared shirt. It was half tucked into his pants, in the back it hung loosely out.

Matt knew where his father had been. The same place he went every night after work. He never told his son that, but one night, Matt found out himself.

**~**FLASHBACK**~**

Matt and Tai walked loudly down the dark street. They were both nervous to be in the dark so to show no fear, they laughed with each other. The street seemed to get louder, but it wasn't by them, it was ahead. The two thirteen year old boys ran excitedly ahead. They wanted to find a pay phone so that Tai could call his parents and say he was staying at Matt's place.

They were disappointed to find a strip club. Of course you had to be over eighteen to get in there.

Maybe we could just tell them our situation and take our chances? Tai suggested, about to open the door.

I guess so, Matt said hesitantly, following Tai inside. He walked in, looking around. His eyes narrowed at what he saw. The man that he so called Father' was allowing three woman to climb all over him. On sat in his lap, another on his side, kissing his neck, and the last one dancing in front of him. The one dancing moved behind him, kissing his neck. She then ran a finger up and down his shoulder.

Tai wavered a hand in front of his eyes. Earth to Matt. Come on, Matt. You zonked out on me. The manager said that we could use his phone, but then we have to get out of here. I know these girls are hot, but geese Tai trailed off at what he was saying when he looked over to where Matt was looking, and he gasped. Hey, isn't that your dad?

Let's go, now, Matt said, taking Tai's arm and pulling him along. He let go of Tai's arm when they reached outside. He didn't care if Tai followed him or not. All he wanted to do was hide the shame he felt. To hide himself.

**~**END FLASHBACK**~**

Oh, I thought you might be asleep, his dad said awkwardly.

No you didn't or else you wouldn't have knocked, Matt said coldly, laying on his bed.

His dad didn't say anything and left the room, closing the door behind him. It left silence, but Matt welcomed it. He hated loudness more than silence, even though it meant he was alone.

Four years following that day he saw his father at the club, Matt sat on his bed, staring at the door his father had just left through a moment ago. He hated that his father talked to him. He was seventeen now and didn't need his father checking up on him. It isn't like he cares for me anyway. Why does he have to come in here? Why can't people just leave me alone?

**~**

Tai sat on his bed, tracing a finger over the stitching of his soccer ball. He frowned and threw the ball against the door, it made a soft thump as it hit the door.

Tai could hear his father telling him to knock it off. So, Tai obeyed for the second time that day. The first time was for a different reason.

**~**FLASHBACK**~**

Tai came home from school six hours later than he was supposed to. He walked in the house at a little past nine, trying to be as quiet as possible. He knew that his parents would notice that he hadn't come home earlier, but that didn't stop him from trying to stay out of trouble.

Where have you been? His mother demanded as she and his father came bursting into the porch area.

Kicking the soccer ball with a friend, Tai replied.

His father asked. From what Kari told your mother, you don't have any friends.

Yeah, so what? Tai sneered, walking past his parents. He walked past the trembling figure of his fifteen year old sister and went straight into his room, slamming the door behind him.

It didn't stay closed for long. His father came in, yelling at him for being defiant. You're to stay in here until I think of a punishment! With those last words, he stormed out of the room and closed the door behind him.

**~**END FLASHBACK**~**

That's how things were with his parents. He didn't care about them anymore, or anything for that matter. Some people meant something to him. His sister, who at the time, was the only person he liked talking to. There was a time, a few years ago, when he could talk more to different people. One being Matt. After Matt saw his father in that strip club, he was more solitude, pushing everyone away from him. Naturally, Tai tried to help, but found himself in another series of fights with him; similar to those in the Digital World. Then Tai himself became a loner. He pushed away Sora, Izzy, T.K. and Joe. Even his own sister at one point.

Tai grumbled and sighed. I am so bored.

**~**

Knock it off, Tai! Her father shouted towards her brother's bedroom.

Kari stood up and walked quietly away from her parents who were watching their favorite comedy show. She went into her own bedroom and took a brush, combing it through her hair.

She looked over at the wall that separated her room from her brother's. She felt guilty. Guilty for spilling out that her brother had no friends. She didn't mean for that to happen.

**~**FLASHBACK**~**

Hi Mom, Kari said happily, walking into the living room. Her false cheerfulness worked, the effort worthwhile.

Oh, hello sweetie, her mother acknowledged, standing up. Where's your brother?

I don't know, Kari replied, taking out her homework. She walked into the kitchen and took a seat in the chair. She opened her math textbook and began to work out a problem.

Does he have a detention? Her mother asked, taking a seat.

I don't think so. I saw him leaving the school just before I had cheerleading practice, Kari replied unemotionally, trying to concentrate on her work.

Is he out with his friends?

Why would he be? He doesn't have any friends. Kari gasped when she realized what she said. She covered her mouth regretfully and cursed to herself. She looked up at the shocked face of her mother. I didn't mean that.

Yes you did, her mother said knowingly, crossing her arms. Why doesn't Tai have any friends?

I don't know! Kari shouted, standing up and taking her homework to her room. She slammed the door to her room.

**~**END FLASHBACK**~**

I shouldn't have to know why my brother doesn't have any friends. I know that he and Matt were friends, but then something happened and they stopped hanging around each other. Kari shrugged off the reasons and continued to stare at the wall before her.

**~**

Are we ever going to go help them? She asked.

Be patient. We have to wait until the time is right. I know it is tough, but my child is as hurtful as yours and it is also hard for me not to rush down and help him, the other replied.

Another asked, When will be the right time?

You'll see. Fate will bring them all together in a magical way, the other replied again.

**~**

Matt left his room, not wanting to, but his father called him out. He wasn't one to disobey like he used to, but now he knew he had to listen.

He walked into the kitchen and took a seat, staring at the table. I hate him.

Matt, how come you don't visit T.K. anymore? His dad asked softly.

T.K.? Matt almost forgot who that person was. It was true, he hadn't seen his younger brother in nearly a year. He saw him in the hallways at school, but not much more than that. He shrugged and continued to stare at the table, not once yet had he looked at his father.

Sensing this, his father demanded, Look at me when I speak to you. Now, why don't you see T.K. anymore?

Matt looked up angrily at his father and said, Yeah, like I really want to go see my brother. I don't care for him, you, or Mom. I don't care for anyone so why should I go and see him?

His father looked surprised at his outburst. He tried to remain calm, but instead, yelled, How dare you speak about us that way, let alone, speak to me in that tone. Go to your room.

Matt muttered. He stood up and walked out of the room. Instead of going to his room, he ran to his shoes, slipped them on, took a coat, and ran out of the house, slamming the door behind him.

He ran tirelessly through the streets, his mind set on one destination. He didn't understand why, but he felt attracted to one place. He also didn't know why this place was so special. Actually, deep down he knew, but he had only forgotten.

He got onto a train because where he was going, it would have taken him all night to reach on foot. After he got off, he continued to run until he saw one familiar face. It was more than familiar considering it looked like his own.

You here too? So is Izzy, but he went to make a phone call, T.K. stated, looking at the ground. He lifted his gaze to Matt's blue eyes. His sadness reflecting into his own.

What was the big idea asking Dad to give me the guilt trip? Matt asked, but not in an angry voice. Matt couldn't do that to his little brother. He had lied to his father about not caring about T.K. He lied because in reality, he was envious of T.K. He wanted the love and sheltered life he got from their mother. He wanted to be scolded when he stayed up past his bed time or to be given a hug and kiss every night before going to bed. He knew T.K. got this treatment because he did too, before their parents separated. He especially wanted to be sheltered, he felt that since the day he saw his dad in that club.

I didn't ask him to do anything, T.K. replied coldly. He pointed past Matt and said, There are Kari and Tai.

Tai and his sister both approached the two brothers looking worn out. Tai stared at Matt, wanting to say something, but couldn't.

Hey T.K. Long time no see, Kari said sarcastically.

T.K. smiled politely and explained, We saw each other earlier today and actually had a conversation for more that an second.

I wish I could say that same thing about you, Tai responded, looking directly at Matt. It would have been nice to have a friend for these past four years.

It isn't my fault. You had other friends besides me, Matt retorted, crossing his arms.

Hey guys, Sora said, approaching the gang.

Tai's eyes went wide and he exclaimed,

Yeah, that's my name, Sora said wearily.

Look, Joe and I think that is Mimi. Last time I saw her, her hair was pink, Kari pointed out.

Joe walked up to them, looking frustrated. Mimi looked cheerful, but it looked too good to be true. Matt studied her body, noting all of the curves that weren't there as a child. He noticed that her hair was again brown, flowing down her back. She no longer had it in a ponytail, but just long and wavy. Mimi caught his glance, making him blush and turn away.

Where is Izzy? Tai asked. I mean, if we are all here, Izzy will come too, right?

He had to make a phone call, T.K. answered.

When did you come from America? Sora asked, looking at Mimi.

Last night. Something told me to come here so I did, Mimi replied casually. I mean, why else would we all be here together?

Mimi has a good point, Izzy said, approaching the seven Digidestined. We are here for some sort of reason. Why else would we be in Heighten View Terrace?

Nobody told me anything, Matt said, crossing his arms.

I second that one. Like I really want to be here again with all of you, Tai said angrily, beginning to walk away. As he walked past Matt, he gave a light push on the shoulder.

Matt glared at him angrily and said, See ya. I have better things to do then be here with you losers. Matt walked away, leaving the group speechless.

When he got home, he snuck inside and closed the door behind him. He turned around and stared at the angry face of his father.

Where have you been? He asked angrily. I've been worried sick.

Are you sure Dad or were you having a fun time with your sluts? Matt asked slyly, putting an emphasis on the plural form of slut'. He stared at his dad, waiting for an answer. Just what I thought. You have no right to ask me anything when as a kid, I used to be worried sick whenever you would not come home.

Matt walked into his room and slammed the door behind him. He sat on his bed and sighed. What I would give for a friend right about now.

**~**

Can we go now? The green haired girl asked.

Yes, but stay your distance. We don't want them to kill themselves or anything, the white haired woman said cautiously.

the blue hair girl mumbled, making herself transport.

**~**

It was well past midnight when Matt got out of bed, tired of being a sleepless person. He opened the door quietly and went into the kitchen. He knew that his dad would wake up if he made too much noise, so after Matt fetched himself a glass of water, he went back to the room, the cup still in his hand.

Matt set the cup on his night stand and climbed under his covers. He tried to fall asleep, but found himself attentive to every little noise in the apartment. He could hear the soft tapping of the dripping sink in their bathroom. The rain fecundated outside, obvious to Matt. He didn't want to hear any of those noises. He desperately wanted to fall asleep.

Matt groaned and flung the sheets off of him. He was too hot, but at the moment he took the sheets off, he felt shivers racing down his spine. He sat up and yawned. Suddenly, he felt like someone was watching him for a minute, and he glanced towards the door to his room to find emptiness. I could have sworn someone was watching me.

Matt felt uncomfortable and mumbled, Can't I just fall asleep? I hate being sleepless.

I know, it isn't fun, is it? The voice was warm and magical. It floated throughout the room, making it sound like it was coming from every where.

Who's there? Matt asked in a whisper, not wanting to show he was scared. The truth was he was frightened beyond facing the Dark Masters. At least when he faced them, he had his friends and the digimon to protect him. Here though, he was alone in a room. It was late at night, the rain was falling loudly, and his dad was asleep. Not like he would ask for his father's help anyway.

Wouldn't you like to know. I don't want to scare you though. I am an ugly, horrible monster looking thing with huge teeth that would just pierce through your body.

Are you a digimon? Matt asked cautiously. I have a digimon and he could Digivolve to his Mega form and––

Be quiet. For one thing, your digimon can't Digivolve to the Mega level anymore because you and your friends gave up your crest power a long time ago. Secondly, I am not a digimon. Thirdly psyched! Suddenly, a beautiful woman appeared in front of Matt, sitting on his bed side.

Who are you? Matt demanded. Why the hell are you in my room so late at night? Man, if my dad comes in here, well, it won't look too good.

The woman wrinkled her nose and giggled. She tossed her long, dark blue hair behind her shoulder, allowing it to fall loosely down her back. Her sapphire eyes sparkled and glimmered, sending chills down Matt's spine. They weren't chills of trepidation, but of longing to touch her face.

Matt shook out of his daze and asked, Who are you?

You're so cute when you are scared, the woman said, putting a hand on his leg that wasn't hidden underneath the bed sheet anymore. The name is Sapphire.

Sapphire? Isn't that a gem or something? Matt asked.

Yes. As you can see, that is why I am all blue, she said, motioning her hands to her body. She even wore blue clothes. A long, blue skirt is what she wore with a short crop top that was also blue. She even had blue studs in her ears.

um why are you here? Matt asked nervously, backing away.

You asked for a friend so here I am, Sapphire replied happily, I can be a friend, pal, person to confine in, advocate, lover

Whoa! I just met you, Matt said, shaking his head. He could feel himself blushing.

Sapphire giggle and said, I know that you are a virgin and––

Don't go there. You don't know that. I have lots of girls after me and you have no right to say what you don't know about me, Matt said stubbornly, crossing his arms.

I do too know that you are a virgin. I know all about you. I know that your parents are split up, that you resent T.K., I know who your two crushes are, but I won't say who they are outloud because deep inside, you know who I am talking about, Sapphire said knowingly, giggling.

But how

I am your guardian, Matt. I've been waiting a long time to see you. I may look like I am eighteen, but I have been in existence for at least one thousand years, Sapphire explained tirelessly. So, want to talk about stuff? We could talk about your crushes

Matt exclaimed.

Sapphire smiled and suggested, Or your resentment to T.K.? Or how you think that you hate your father, but you really don't? Or how about your digimon, Gabumon? Or––

Stop! I don't want to talk to you. I don't even know you. How do I get rid of you? Matt asked, his voice quivering.

Why would you want to get rid of me? Sapphire asked curiously.

I just told you, but you should know anyway. After all, you say that you know everything else about me. You could have got that information about me from someone else like Tai or T.K. So tell me, why do I want you gone?

Sapphire smiled and moved closer to Matt. She leaned forward and whispered into his ears, Because you hate talking about your feelings even though you want to, you hate yourself for thinking that. If you want me gone, fine. Man, you are as talkative as Tai is.

Matt was astonished to find Sapphire suddenly disappear. He remained frozen for a few minutes until he felt the need to go to sleep. Against his own free will, he fell asleep.

**~**

Matt hurriedly got ready for school the next day. He wanted to find Tai. After what Sapphire had said to him last night, he was positive that Tai had someone coming to him too. He didn't understand why this person, or thing, all of the sudden came, but he wanted to know if he was not crazy. He didn't think he was crazy, but wanted to hear those words from Tai.

He raced into the kitchen to retrieve his homework. He didn't care if he ate or not. His father thought otherwise.

Matt, take some time to eat some breakfast, his father said, motioning him to take a seat. You can't be in that much of a hurry to not even sit with your old man and enjoy some breakfast.

Oh yeah, we are always enjoying breakfast together, Matt muttered under his breath as he took a seat.

What was that? He asked.

Nothing. Look, I have to go and see Tai. I need to talk to him, Matt said impatiently.

Oh, and why is that? Mr. Ishida asked, raising an eyebrow.

It isn't any of your business asshole. Fuck, why can't he just leave me alone? Matt shrugged and decided that he better eat something to try and distract his father's mind.

Don't you just hate it when people pry into your business? Sapphire asked, whispering into his ears.

Don't do that to me! Matt scolded.

Do what? His father asked, looking confused.

nothing. I was just thinking and the words slipped out of my mouth, Matt replied. He decided to risk asking. Do you see a girl with blue hair behind me?

his father replied, giving his son a quizzical look.

He can't see or hear me, Sapphire explained. She walked over to his father and decided to demonstrate. She touched his shoulder and ran a finger down his back.

He didn't even flinch, but Matt did. His mind went back to the night where he saw his father at that strip club. Sapphire brought back a memory of one of the girls touching him like crazy.

Matt, what's wrong? You look like you've seen a ghost.

Matt couldn't hear what he was saying. All he could see was the three girls working their sweaty bodies all over him. Matt didn't want to see this, but he did. He was furious at his mind for making him remember his past.

Matt, answer me.

Again, Matt didn't hear what he was saying, or didn't want to. He didn't even realize what he was saying. Blue is so beautiful. It represents me. It is just like my crest color.

His father questioned.

Black is wrong. It represents Dad. What he did to me was wrong beyond all reason. I want to be where T.K. is.

Finally, his father couldn't take it anymore. He got up, walking right through Sapphire, and over to Matt. He shook his shoulders violently, trying to get Matt out of the trance he was in. Matt, what did I do to you?

Matt got out of the trance and was surprised to see his father standing over him, his fingers deep in his shoulders. Matt jerked away and asked, Why are your hands on my shoulders? Don't touch me!

Matt, what were you talking about before? Mr. Ishida asked, cautiously taking his hands off Matt.

What are you talking about? Matt asked, confused. He remembered nothing and didn't understand what his father was talking about. All he had been doing for the past few minutes was remembering that night with Tai at the club.

Never mind. Just go on to school before you are late, his father said, taking a step back.

Oh, right! I have to see Tai. Later! With that, Matt ran out of his father's site and out the door with his books in the bag. He ran to his school that was only a few blocks away. On the way, he passed Tai's apartment building. He knew that Tai wouldn't be there so he continued his way.

After ten minutes, he reached the school. Most students littered the lawn of the school, trying to get last minute fresh air before being cramped in the school for most of the day.

Matt scooped the area, looking for Tai. He finally found him, sitting alone under a tree. As Matt approached him, he looked upset and frustrated.

Tai looked up and studied Matt's eyes. He asked, What do you want?

Tai, this might sound crazy and I want you to forget everything I said after this, Matt said quickly, taking a seat beside him.

Are you going to tell me that you love me? Tai asked hesitantly. It looked like he just realized what he had said because he quickly covered a hand over his mouth.

Um no, but anyway, this strange woman with blue hair appeared in my room last night. Her name is Sapphire and––

Don't say anymore! Amber was not real! Tai exclaimed, covering his ears. And neither was Garnet!

Who's Garnet? Matt asked.

He appeared in Kari's room, Tai replied, taking his hands off his ears. He looked around before saying, I was just joking. There is nobody named Garnet or Amber. They aren't real––

Don't lose it, Tai. I had a girl named Sapphire come into my room last night. So, if Kari had a guy come into her room, than the other Digidestined must have too, Matt said excitedly. Come on, let's go find the others!

**~**

HOW TO HELP ME:

Okay, so here's the dilemma. You guys (readers) tell me which couple you want. Now, it has to do with Matt's two crushes'. If you already haven't guessed who they are, than I am guessing that you are no older than eleven. So, what was with Matt checking out Mimi. (hint, hint!) Or how about the deal between Matt and Tai? (hint, hint!!) Okay, I will ask bluntly: Taito or Mimato? The more votes I get, the more likely I will write another chapter and put in the pairing of your choice.

So please, review so that I can get your answer!! Also, feel free to comment on things that you don't like or understand. It would be kind of nice to give me some nice comments too. Also, I will have WAY more detail in the next chapter and more explaining about the problems of the other Digidestined.

Chapter 2 will be soon if I get tons of reviews.