(Nikki's POV)
'Beep! Beep! Beep!'
I groan in irritation as my alarm rudely pulls me from my deep slumber. I force one eye open to peek at the time and am disappointed to find that it is indeed time to get up for school. Reaching over, I punch down on my noise-making clock to cease the annoying sound. Once there is silence I sit up in my large bed and stretch my arms above my head, at the same time letting out a big yawn. I turn to stare outside, pleased to see bright sunrays streaming through the curtains. Seems today is going to be the mark of a promising year.
You see…today is the day that I, seventeen-year-old Nikki Clyne, begin my final year of school at the well known Archangel High. Life is considerably content there, I have a group of great friends that I hang around each and every single day, and for the past six months have been dating one of the most popular guys in school. One would think I have the most perfect life right? Well that's what I'm constantly trying to convince myself, but lately I've been having this nagging feeling that something is missing…but can't seem to figure it out.
"Nikki! Are you ready to go? Jas, Jen and Echo are waiting!"
Oh yeah, the one other person in my life that keeps me sane; my younger and only sibling Lacus. The only trait that shows we're even remotely related is our looks, but our personalities couldn't be anymore opposite. We're about as different as fire and ice if you can believe it. Lacus stands at an average height with long pink hair that falls down to just below her tailbone. I am over a foot taller than her, with the same wavy but brown hair that, when let down, flows all the way down to my knees…so what if I never had it cut? The one and only feature we share is the bright blue eyes we both inherited from our mother.
"NIKKI!"
Oh yeah I suppose I should hurry up.
"Alright I'm coming!"
After hastily getting dressed, I grab my bag and race out of my room and down the stairs to find my sister in her usual neatly groomed fashion, her hands on her hips and a foot tapping impatiently on the floor. I gulp, never good when Lacus loses her cool.
I grin sheepishly at her. "I'm ready to go."
She raises an eyebrow. "Did you wake up at the last minute again?"
I give her my most innocent expression. "Now why would I go and do a thing like that?"
She lets out a sigh before turning towards the door. I take that as a narrow escape from her wrath and follow her outside, locking the door as I go. I turn back around to see three figures, minus Lacus, waiting for us outside our gate, one of which is waving enthusiastically at me.
"Morning Nikki!"
I grinned. That is one of my best friends, Jennifer West. She is probably the most bubbly and outgoing person in our group, it's never boring around her, her striking red hair and green eyes seem to let the rest of the world know as well. But her loud mouth and personality does the job well enough anyway.
Standing next to her and holding her hand is a tall, good looking (I'll never tell him this) blonde guy with twinkling blue eyes. He turns his affectionate gaze from Jenny to me, his expression turning into a cocky smirk. I roll my eyes at him. That so called attractive male is none other than other one of my best friends, Jason Kazahana. We've been friends with him for as long as I can remember and we've basically grown up as siblings. One of our favourite hobbies was to annoy the living crap out of each other. Seeing him as the brother I never had, I was happy when Jenny came into his life. The two of them clicked instantly and have been inseparable ever since, I couldn't be happier for them. But he can still be an annoying git most of the time, he has the bruise to prove just how pissed off he can make me.
I turn to greet the last and closest of my best friends, Echo Alza. She's the shortest out of everybody and the most intelligent. She has soft blonde hair that goes below her shoulders and has piercing amethyst eyes that seemingly peer through your soul…sometimes I feel as if she actually is. Although I've known Jason longer, I'm much more closely bonded to Echo. We know anything and everything about each other and spend a lot of our quality time predicting and betting on the other…no really it's actually a lot of fun. And let's not forget her intelligence. Echo just happens to be the smartest girl in her year, most likely the whole school. Her area of expertise lies in mechanical engineering whether it be fixing, installing, building or just plain inventing…the girl's a bloody genius. And on top of that she passes every grade like a breeze, I've always wondered how she manages.
I grin at her as we high-five each other. "Sup!"
She grins back. "Top of the morning to ya!"
We fall in step behind the others, chatting non-stop the entire way. School is only a number of blocks away so everyone agreed it would be easier to save petrol and walk together, plus living close to each other makes the walking more beneficial.
As we draw closer to the school, we notice a big commotion near the gates. Walking closer, I realize that most of the large crowd consists of squealing girls. I groan inwardly, 'Oh great…some lame hot stuff celebrity visiting or something?' I glance to the side to share a look with Echo; both of us wearing dreaded expressions.
Finally entering the gate, I am, for once, thankful for my height and was able to see over the heads of the pathetically enthusiastic fan girls. What I see, however, isn't quite what I expected.
A tall, handsome, dark haired stranger stood awkwardly amongst the chaos, looking lost and rather frightened of his new fan club. I notice that he is wearing our uniform and conclude that he must be a new student. 'Poor sod obviously wasn't warned about being fresh prey.' I can't help the snicker that escapes from my mouth.
"Hey Nikki…who's that?"
My head whips around and…. ah yes…was wondering when he'd appear. My boyfriend of six months, Darren Edwards, tall, black hair and silver eyes. He had transferred to this school last year and we got along rather well. That friendship soon blossomed into romance and we began dating half a year later. We've been going steady and happily although lately something seems off…oh well I'll figure it out later.
I turn and give him a smile. "Hey…not sure, I think he's new."
He stares curiously at the newcomer for a moment before shrugging and putting an arm around my shoulders. "Well whatever, come on the others are waiting for you."
I allow him to pull me away from the rather outrageous scene and towards the rest of our friends. Immediately once arriving there, Lacus makes a beeline straight for a guy in our group. Upon seeing her, his eyes light up and he greets her with an affectionate hug. I sigh at just how cliché these two were. The guy's name is Kira Yamato, brown spiky hair and deep, emotional purple eyes. And the sad fact that makes me want to just scream? Kira and Lacus are very obviously, fully blown out in love with each other which makes the entire situation just that much more overdramatic. Why? Because Kira is also dating the schools number one most selfish, manipulative, devious and (this I've always wondered) popular captain cheerleader Flay Allster. And I'm not exaggerating about her personality either. She is one of the most nastiest girls I've ever met and often wished I never had the unfortunate misfortune to cross paths with her. Just the sight of her sets my blood boiling to the danger of my mental thermometer exploding. But my very patient saint-like sister has been constantly restraining me from doing anything, she never likes it when people get hurt…bless your pure heart dear sister.
Anyway back to Kira and Lacus. If Flay sees them so much as hugging (like they're doing now) she has a habit of appearing out of nowhere and clinging onto Kira like she owns him. 'Don't think I don't see those glares you send my sister Allster!' Oh speak of the devil here she comes now.
I clench my fists tightly as I watch her wrap her arms around Kira's and send an icy glare in Lacus's direction. My heart becomes heavy as Lacus's shoulders visibly drop in defeat and she walks away from them with her head bowed and tears filling her eyes. I feel my jaw tighten in anger, the day has barely started and already that attention seeking wench made my sister cry!
First things first though, I need to cheer up poor Lacus. I run over to her and gently tug on her arm to turn her around. The sight that meets my gaze when she lifts her head breaks my heart in two. Her eyes are full of sadness and tears stream down her face. I instantly pull her into a sisterly hug and I can feel her shaking as she cries into my shoulder. My eyes are drawn over to where I see Flay sending me a smug smirk and Kira looking very uncomfortable, honestly the guy needs to grow a bloody spine. I refocus my attention back to my sister who has now, thankfully, calmed down a little. I push her away and hold her at arms length. I bend down slightly and my determined eyes meet her vulnerable, fragile ones.
"Listen to me Lacus, don't pay any attention to her alright? You're a hundred times the person she is, you need to stop letting her get to you like this."
Lacus shakes her head sadly. "It's not that she gets to me Nikki…it just hurts to see Kira with her."
I can't help the small groan that escapes me. "And that's exactly what I mean! You have to fight for him! And it shouldn't even matter because you've already won!"
My last phrase seems to have caught her attention as she stares at me curiously. "What do you mean I've already won?"
I mentally face palm at how oblivious my sister is. "Isn't it obvious Lacus…Kira loves you too."
I wonder if I've said too much, but a bright smile from her immediately crushes that thought.
"Really…Kira loves me?
I smile and nod at her. "He sure does, that's why you need to tell him once and for all how you feel. And then he'll finally dump that wench of a girlfriend of his and voila! Everybody's happy…well except for Allster."
I was pleased to hear Lacus giggle. Yup, mission accomplished, I have successfully managed to cheer up my sister. Now…where did Allster go?
"Hey Nikki! Lacus!"
Aw, there goes my chance at turning Allster into my very own personal piñata. Oh well maybe next time, so who called me? Ah! If it isn't my good mate Cagalli! And no surprise she has her own boyfriend Athrun right behind her. I swear they're attached at the hip. Cagalli is Lacus's best friend and twin sister of Kira Yamato. While Kira is rather shy and reserved, his sister is loud mouthed, out going and sometimes just downright scary. Her wild and hyper side is rather intimidating but apparently she's terrified of me when I go nuts so I suppose we can call it even. (Then again who isn't scared of me…wait should I be happy about this?)
Her boyfriend Athrun Zala, one of the few people I know that has weird coloured hair. It is a royal blue and ends just above his shoulders. That and his green eyes are part of the reason I have to deal with squealing imbeciles every school day…stupid men with their stupid good looks. Another little secret that only our group knows, Athrun is actually the brother of my best friend Echo. Haha! Bet you didn't see that one coming. Well I'll tell you something…neither did I! When Echo entrusted me with this rather…jaw-dropping confession, I was surprised to say in the least! For one thing, they don't look anything alike! Well they both build things and they're both incredibly smart…that's one similarity I guess. Anyway, the only people who know of these two are our close group of friends…and I mean CLOSE group, I haven't even told Darren about the mysterious siblings, this secret is only known to those who Echo really trusts…and for some reason she seems rather edgy about Darren, wonder what that's about.
While Cagalli and Lacus start babbling away at a million miles an hour (good heavens they're mouths are a friggin blur), I see Athrun make his way over to Echo. She looks up and grins openly at him. Have I mentioned she's been exceptionally happier since discovering she has a brother? Her eyes light up like a lighthouse whenever she sees him, but then again I can understand where she's coming from. I would feel a very big piece of my heart missing if I didn't have an awesome sister like Lacus in my life. She must be super excited now that she has a brother. I've always wondered what having a brother was like, but I'm close enough having Jason. I look around at all of my friends in contentment. I love my life, and I've had a rough road getting here. Things haven't always been smooth for Lacus and me…especially with our parents. Yeah… sit back because this will take some time to explain.
(Flashback)
It had started the moment I was born. My birth had caused serious complications, which had put my mother's health in jeopardy. Miraculously she had pulled through, but she was never the same. Growing up as a child, I had always watched my mother struggle. After bringing Lacus into the world, she had sworn off having any more
children, her body too strained and exhausted from just us two girls. The doctor had informed her that it was a miracle she had children at all, and that giving birth twice in just over a year had internally damaged her and that she only had a short time to live. As a child, I never quite understood the depth of just how sick my mother was. All the memories I have of her are nothing but her gentle, smiling face, and the love and care she always showed me.
My father on the other hand was a different story. He had always blamed me for my mothers failing health, saying that if I hadn't been born then maybe she would've lived longer. He never showed this hostile side of his while I was an infant. But the day my mother died was the day my family changed forever.
I was barely ten years old. I was awoken abruptly by my fathers' anguished cry. I jumped out of bed and bolted down the hallway to where my parents' room was. I burst inside but stopped instantly when I saw the scene before me. My father was holding my mother close to him, rocking her gently, tears pouring down his face. But my attention was on my mother, who was lying limp in his embrace. She was pale and unmoving. I remember stepping forward slightly, shaking in fear and confusion.
"M…Mummy?"
My father spoke some of the kindest words I can recall him ever saying my entire life. "Come Nikki…come say goodbye to mummy."
I walked forward as he placed my mothers body back on the bed. My father lifted me and placed me beside her. My body shook as I realized what was happening. My mother was dead. I flung myself onto her chest and cried desperately into her shirt.
"NO! Mummy! Come back! Mummy!"
My father watched in silence, unable to comfort his oldest daughter. I suppose he was too lost in his own grief to really care. But his kindness towards me didn't last, since it seemed he suddenly realized who it was he thought was responsible for his wife's death. I suddenly felt myself being roughly lifted off my mother's chest and thrown onto the floor. I looked up from the floor to see my fathers' enraged face.
"This is YOUR FAULT! You're the reason she's DEAD! It was your existence that made her sick! Damn you for being born!"
Each insult he spat out felt like being constantly stabbed through the heart. My own father thought I was the reason my mother suffered. Whatever respect I held for him had died that night, and the need to rely on someone crumbled along with it. From that moment on I was determined to live my own way. I would live the way I wanted and protect those I loved. As I entered my teens I turned rebellious. It was a daily routine for me to have a shouting match with my father, with Lacus desperately trying to keep the peace. But that peace had vanished the night my mother died.
What had changed me completely was the sickening attention he would give to my sister. I never hated Lacus for it; rather I leant on her for support. Regrettably I have snapped at her at times, my anger still on overdrive from fighting with my father. But it was no excuse, it wasn't fair of me to take my frustrations out on her, she never did anything besides support and love me like a sister should.
Both Lacus and I knew that I was the one who was closer to our mother, so her death had hit me the most. Don't get me wrong, Lacus was devastated too, any child would be after losing a parent. But I shared a bond with her that no one else had. Part of the reason could be how I am always reminded of how I am a split image of her…I had inherited everything from her long brown hair and blue eyes to her habits and personality. I'm always confronted by her old friends, with constant lines of; "Little Nikki? My goodness you look just like your mother!" or how about; "Good Heavens, it's like a younger version of Annabelle!" and lets not forget my favourite; "Annabelle is that you? …Oh Nikki! Wow sorry about that. For a minute there I thought your mother had returned from the dead." Gee thanks guys, always nice to be reminded of my mothers' unfortunate demise…insensitive old geezers.
Getting back on track here. For many years we at least had our father…well it was great for Lacus at least. Since I didn't really get along with him anyway, I spent the majority of my time away from home and hanging with Jason and Echo. My two best friends were constantly there for me, especially after my mothers passing. They were sad to see her go; they always did go on about how much they loved her company (and her cooking…I swear they just came over for the food). Wow I really love getting carried away…well… it was only a couple of years ago that death struck our family once again. Lacus and I were at school when we received a call from the hospital that our father had suffered a rather severe heart attack and had been rushed into the emergency centre. We didn't waste anytime. I drove like a maniac to the hospital (ok I didn't have my license yet, but nobody knew, plus I always was a excellent driver) and before the car had even stopped, Lacus had jumped out and bolted to the entrance. I quickly parked and ran after her (my car has central locking so of course I locked it…I'm not an idiot). We were asked to wait patiently while they did their best to save our fathers life. The wait was torture, especially for Lacus. While I was close to our mother, Lacus shared that same connection with our father. He had always treated her like a princess and showed her daily how much he loved her. The thought caused my stomach to church. As much as I detested him for the way he treated me, there was always a part of me that wanted what Lacus had. The little girl that was hidden away deep inside of me still loved and longed for her father.
My thoughts were interrupted when a doctor approached us. I gave Lacus a gentle nudge and we stood, staring expectantly and hoping for some good news. But any hope I felt dwindled when I saw the look on the doctors' face. Lacus' must've noticed too, she shook her head in desperate denial, stumbled backwards and collapsed back onto the chair she originally sat in.
Being the brave one for the both of us, I stepped forward. "How is he?"
The doctor sighed. "He's alive…but only just. I suggest you take your time to say your goodbyes…he only has a short time left."
I nodded grimly. "Thank you."
He nodded in response before walking away, but not before informing us of the whereabouts of our fathers' room. I helped Lacus to her feet and wrapped an arm around her shoulder before leading her down the hall. Once we found the right door, I gently steered her inside. The instant Lacus laid eyes on him, she broke down into tears. She made her way over and sat in the chair next to his bed. She leant forward and gently took his hand. The dying man mumbled something neither of us could quite hear.
Lacus squeezed his hand. "Daddy?"
My fathers' eyes squinted open. "L..La..cus."
My heart reached out to him. I normally felt so angry towards him for his resentment and verbal abuse. But right now, all I saw was a fragile man on the last stretch of his life. This was my chance to show him how I really felt.
Lacus's voice brought me back to reality. "How…how're you feeling Daddy? Will you be ok?"
A tired, sad smile made it's way across my fathers face. "We…both know…the answer to…that question sweetie."
Tears once again sparkled in her eyes. "Please…Daddy…not you too. We've already lost Mum as well."
I watched as he squeezed her hand. "You won't…be alone…Nikki will…take care of…you."
He let go of Lacus' hand and silently reached forward to beckon me to him. I silently obeyed and walked over to him, grasping his hand once I reached his side. For the first time in my life, my father smiled at me with pride in his eyes.
"My precious…Nikki. My…special girl, please…forgive me."
I shook my head. "No Father. You don't need to apologize. We were all grieving for Mum. I was too angry and lost to realize that you were hurting as well."
His eyes were suddenly filled with sadness and guilt. "It didn't give…me the right…to accuse you…the way I did. You were only…a child. I…should've known…better." He turned his regretful gaze towards the ceiling. "Your mother…must be so…disappointed in me."
I squeezed his hand gently, making him turn to look back at me. "No Father…she loves you. And we know she's waiting for you. And…you know I love you too. No matter how hard you were on me…you're still my father."
His smile widened and his eyes twinkled. "And I love you…my daughter. Please…watch over…and protect…your sister. I…place her…in your…care now."
I nodded. "I will Father, I promise I will take care of her."
"Daddy…"
He turned his gaze to Lacus, who had been quiet during the exchange. My father let go of my hand to once again clasp hers.
"Lacus…do not be sad. I…am not dying…but simply…living on. And I…will be…waiting…for you…when it's your…turn. You…will see…me again."
Lacus nodded tearfully. "I know…and I look forward to that day…I love you Daddy."
He smiled. "I…love you too…I love…both of you…very much."
I stood next to my sister, with tears of my own threatening to fall, as our beloved father finally closed his eyes and his last breathe left him, a peaceful smile still on his face.
I held Lacus close to me as she broke down. I was reminded how she comforted me after our mother died, now it was my turn to comfort her.
(End Flashback)
It was a year later when I met Darren. He filled the gap my father had left and I am now living the best life I can. But there will always be a void where my parents once were, a black hole in myself that can never be replaced. My long trip down memory lane ends just in time for not a moment later… yup! There goes the bell. Dang it, I was going to see if I could rescue that poor newcomer out the front, ah well, guess he'll just have to suffer. I stroll casually through the school towards my homeroom, taking shortcuts to avoid crowds. I crinkle my nose when I find a couple making out against a locker. Not in any mood to deal with any mushy crap, I storm up to them and slam my hand next to them.
They jump apart and stare at me in fear. I snarl. "GET TO CLASS!"
They disappear before I can even blink. I smirk to myself. Serves them right, displaying such atrocious behaviour. Sheesh. Okay so I'm being a little bit hypocritical having a boyfriend, but Darren and I don't carelessly flaunt our affection in public like that, its just…urgh…immature! In a fresh foul mood (yeah I get riled easily) I slam open the classroom door and stomp over to my desk, slumping into my chair and letting out a large 'hmph!' Ok so there was no real logic reason for my temper, but like I said, the smallest thing can tick me off, it's just how I am.
My peaceful time doesn't last long however, as my classmates all pile in and my ears are filled to the brink with ruckus of chatter and squeals. I cringe and throw my arms over my head. 'Is it so much to ask for some bloody peace and quiet?'
"Alright everyone quiet down!"
I sigh in relief at the sound of the teachers' voice. I straighten in my seat and give him my full attention like the good student that I was. 'Wow that sounded real geeky.'
"Before we get started, I would like to introduce a new student. Please come in!"
I watch with the class as the door opens and a tall figure steps into the room. I almost laugh from the irony of it all. It was the newcomer from before! I also notice I'm the only girl in the room who felt like laughing. Every other female was either drooling or on the verge of passing out. I roll my eyes. Ok sure the guy isn't bad looking; in fact looking closer I'd have to say he is rather gorgeous. But please, all this doggy style mouth foaming is not an attractive way of grabbing his attention…not that I'd want to, I mean I have a boyfriend. I lean my cheek on my hand in a bored manner as the teacher continues.
"Young man, would you like to introduce yourself?"
Said young man nods. He steps forward and bows politely. "Pleased to meet you all, my name is Kai Rodgericks."
The girls squeal loudly making me flinch. Sheesh the frequency these girls could hit was remarkable! I let out an irritated huff and turn to stare out the window. My mind begins to wonder again before I heard my name.
"Miss Clyne!"
I raise my eyebrow at the teacher. "Yes Sir?"
"Please raise your hand."
"But I…"
"Just do it!"
I sigh before lifting my right hand in the air.
"You will be seated next to her for the year Mr. Rodgericks."
(Kai's POV)
"Pleased to meet you all, my name is Kai Rodgericks."
Immediately after my self-introduction, all the girls in the room squeal. I sigh quietly to myself. Is it so much for one girl to not faint whenever she looked at me? It made it very hard for a serious commitment.
"Mr Rodgericks you'll be sitting next to Miss Clyne. Miss Clyne if you would kindly show yourself…Miss Clyne."
Everyone in the room turns to stare at a lone figure sitting in the corner of the back row, gazing blankly out the window. My eyes follow theirs and when they land on her, I am unable to break away my gaze. There in the back of the classroom, sat the most stunning girl I'd ever seen. I watch as she distractedly blows on her bangs, the soft strands floating upward then landing gently back onto her face. She seems rather bored, which astounds and amuses me all at once.
"Miss Clyne!"
Most students would jump at the tone, heck even I was startled slightly. But this 'Clyne' girl calmly turns her head and raises an eyebrow at the teacher.
"Yes Sir?"
Heaven help me! She has the voice of a goddess!
"Please raise your hand."
"But I…"
"Just do it!"
She sighs in defeat and raises her right hand. Wait…why did she have to put her hand up?"
"You will be seated next to her for the year Mr Rodgericks."
Wow, am I a lucky guy or what? But her reaction doesn't seem to quite match mine.
(Nikki's POV)
I drop my hand and gawk at the teacher in shock. "What?"
He sends me a stern look. "Don't argue Miss Clyne. I figured I owe it to Mr. Rodgericks to place him next to someone who won't drool on him."
I snort. "What about the boys then? The only reason they would drool on him is if they're gay."
"Well, funnily enough, the only other free space is next to our only gay classmate."
I whip my head to the side to find the rather disturbing sight of a guy my age that was gazing at Kai and practically had love hearts bulging out of his eyes. I shivered. "Um…alright then guess I can't put him through that."
I move my belongings so that I'm right next to the window; wow the view is even better now! I feel someone sit next to me and I turn my head to see the new guy staring rather intently at me with deep forest green eyes. I raise my eyebrow at him. "Can I help you?"
The corner of his mouth lifts into an amused smirk. "Am I glad I sat next to you. And not any of the hormonal classmates you have."
I roll my eyes. "Those girls have no self control. It's despicable. Oh where are my manners?" I offer him my hand. "Clyne's the name, Nikki Clyne."
He takes my hand in greeting. "Pleasure to meet you Nikki, well you know my name already, it's Kai Rodgericks."
I nod politely. This guy wasn't so bad. Looks like he has a nice personality to match that face of his. I guess it wouldn't hurt to make friends with him…aha! I know what I'll do!
"Say uh…Kai?"
He turns to me.
I can't help but grin. "Since you're new, how about I show you around during break? Wouldn't want you getting lost."
He smiles at me and I'm rather taken aback. My gosh! This guy is scrumptious! Whoa! Down girl! You have a boyfriend!
"I'd like that a lot, got a group of friends?"
I grin. "But of course, after class our first order of business is for you to meet my gang."
He chuckles. "Gang? You make yourselves sound like you're from the street."
I laugh along with him. "On the contrary, my life is actually quite the opposite."
He raises an eyebrow. "Opposite?"
Oh dear…now I have to explain that I'm friggin rich…just wonderful.
"Yeah my…uh…family is rather…wealthy." Well put Clyne, stutter and all, very smooth.
I'm surprised to find his face is rather calm and neutral. "Wow, that's cool. My family was never too big with money and stuff."
I stare in bewilderment. What the hell is with this guy? Most people are throwing themselves at me to try and bribe money from me, or worshiping the fact myself and Lacus are wealthy. It's one of the many stupid reasons we were labelled as 'popular'. But this guy doesn't give a crap, he treated it like casual conversation…wow he really is perfect isn't he? I envy the girl he ends up marrying one day…wow did I really just think that?
His hand waving in front of my face breaks me out of my trance. "Hey! Nikki! You alive in there?"
I laugh and rub my neck. "Aha yeah sorry, mind wondered off for a minute."
(Kai's POV)
This girl is amazing! I've never met anyone quite like her. I was rather pleased to find out I will be sitting next to her all year. But my brain decided to stop working the moment she looked at me. Two beautiful crystal blue eyes curiously stared into mine and I was met first and foremost with a blank expression and a raised eyebrow. Wow she is an interesting character isn't she? And very hard to read at that, but after proper introductions, it was rather easy to talk to her. And she's even volunteered to show me around the school and meet her friends! Not bad for a first day at Archangel High.
She also mentions that she has a wealthy family. I laugh inwardly at her shocked expression when I don't really react. Guess she's had too many people treat her like royalty, and guessing from her personality so far, I'd wager a guess she doesn't enjoy the attention too much.
After homeroom, she pulls me outside and leads me to, what I'm guessing is my school tour. She then stops suddenly and turns to me. I blankly stare back.
She puts her hand out. "Got your timetable?"
I reach into my pocket and pull out a folded piece of paper before giving it to her. She unfolds it, studies it for a moment before handing it back to me with a smirk on her face. 'Does she ever just…smile?'
"Well that makes things a whole heap easier."
I blink. "What does?"
"Your timetable is exactly the same as mine, so we'll be spending quite a bit of time together."
I want to jump for joy. This is great! Maybe while spending more time with her I can build up the nerve to ask her on a date or something. Yeah that sounds like a plan, but how would I…?
"Oh hey Darren!"
I snap out of my thoughts at the sound of her voice and I find myself astonished at her expression. She has an excited smile on her face and is waving enthusiastically to someone. What lucky man can bring out such a vibrant glow? I turn around to see a guy shorter than me walking towards us. Completely ignoring me he strides past me and walks over to Nikki. I watch in shock as he kisses her cheek and puts an arm around her waist. No way…was this guy…?
Nikki answers my unfinished question. "Kai, this is my boyfriend Darren Edwards. Darren, this is Kai Rodgericks, he's the new guy that was getting harassed out the front."
All hopes and dreams are instantly crushed. She has a boyfriend. I had found the perfect girl, only to arrive too late. But I wasn't about to become bitter about it; I was to be the gentleman and be happy for her.
I politely offer my hand to him. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Darren."
I guess she isn't the one after all.
(Nikki's POV)
"Kai, this is my boyfriend Darren Edwards. Darren, this is Kai Rodgericks, he's the new guy that was getting harassed out the front."
Now the different reactions are interesting and confusing. Kai's confused me. When I'd introduced Darren, I actually saw his face fall in disappointment. Was he…did he like me? That's impossible; I only just met the guy. Oh dear, we'll see how that goes then. I turn to Darren and my eyebrows shoot up into my hair. He looks…suspicious, almost dangerous. Is he threatened that Kai might try steal me away from him? Isn't that jumping to conclusions and also a tad bit possessive? He knows if anyone tried anything on me I'm am perfectly able to take care of myself. 'Sigh' Last thing I want is to turn this into an unnecessary love triangle. What love triangle? I'm not in love with Kai! I barely even know him! Ok…breathe Nikki before you hurt yourself.
I feel relief when Darren finally reaches out and takes Kai's offered hand. Well if Kai was hoping for anything, he was at least handling this as a proper man.
"Pleasure's all mine Kai. Had quite an adventure earlier ey? Sounds like you're quite the ladies man."
Kai laughs modestly. "Actually it was rather frightening. All I want is to find and marry a nice girl who loves me for me. Settle down and raise my own family."
Once again I find myself amazed. He actually wants to get married and have kids? He must be the only guy I know that's openly admitted that with no shame. Even Darren never really talks about it. Speaking of which. I glance next to me to look at him.
He looks bewildered for a moment before he surprises me by bursting out laughing. What? I don't recall Kai saying anything funny.
Darren walks up to Kai and whacks him in shoulder. "Marriage? Family? Hah! Dude! Do you live in the eighteenth century? That's so old fashioned! What kind of world do you think we're living in?"
I am stunned to say the least. He doesn't believe in marriage…or in having children? Not to mention he was laughing about the whole matter like it was some ridiculous fairytale. Before I can stop myself, I find myself in my boyfriends face.
"What do you mean old fashioned? Lots of people still get married! Don't criticise him for something he strongly believes in!"
Darren's silver eyes dart to me in shock and anger. "What you're defending him now?"
I stare back at him and stand my ground. I'm not scared of him. "No I'm not! I'm defending what I believe in!"
He laughs at me. "You? Marriage? Hah! Not while you're dating me babe!"
I feel my eyebrow twitch at the nickname. "Don't call me that! You know I hate those stupid pet names!"
His face is now an inch from mine as we glare at each other. I harden my expression further and my voice comes out in an icy tone. "You know how I get when I'm pissed Darren. Don't want you ending up like those stupid thugs."
For a moment I see a flicker of fear in his eyes but it disappears just as quickly and he turns around and storms off. I allow my face to soften and let out an exasperated sigh.
"Oh brother."
"Nikki?"
I turn to see Kai standing in the same spot looking very guilty. Uh oh.
"I didn't cause that fight with you and Darren just now did I?
I shake my head. "No you didn't. We've been having problems for a while. Sure we're happy some of the time. But it's been very easy to pick a fight with him lately. I'm not sure when it happened, but he's changed."
And it's true. When I met Darren he was a different person. In fact he wasn't too much different from Kai. Easy to talk to, make me laugh and they're both very good-looking guys. But recently he had begun acting differently. His hugs and touches used to be soft and gentle, but now they're rough and demanding, almost as if he's desperate for something.
I feel a hand on my shoulder and I look up to find myself staring into soft, compassionate green eyes. I find myself unable to look away. What's happening to me? Why do I feel so entranced by someone I just met? I turn away just in time to hide the large blush that covered my cheeks. Oh hell…since when did I blush?
"Kai?"
Oh thank the heavens for whoever saved me from this embarrassment. I turn happily to see…Jason?
My jaw drops as a large grin appears on Kai's face as he leaps forward to share a brotherly hug with my best friend. Just what the bloody hell is going on here? Do they know each other? Urgh my head is spinning, too much is happening in one day.
Jason turns his annoyingly large grin towards me. "Nikki! Why didn't you tell me you knew Kai?"
I glare at him. "I just met him you idiot! And what about you huh? How in the hell do you know him?"
Jason's smile grew. "Ah we go way back! Don't we mate?"
I turn to stare questioningly at Kai, who nods in affirmation. "We knew each other a few years ago. We were classmates for only a single year before I had to move away."
I scratch my head. "Then where in the heck was I?"
Jason strokes his chin thoughtfully. "Might've been the year you lot went away for a holiday."
I mentally smack myself. Of course…Echo had dragged Lacus and myself to her vacation home for a year to help us escape our family dramas for a little while. We hadn't planned on staying that long…but I guess us girls had heaps more fun then anticipated…heh.
I shrug. "Well that definitely explains why we've never met before. How about you come and meet the rest of the gang now?"
Well I'll spare you the long, dragging bore of him meeting the others, otherwise we'll be here forever. So how's about I just summarize the rest of my day? Well I'm making sure Kai is in time for all his classes, showing him around the school and helping him become comfortable. It's remarkable how popular he is now, and only after one day too. But sure enough he has his own official fan club and I have found it upon myself to personally assign myself as his bodyguard against his stalkers. He does seem thankful for my help actually. Poor guy is too kind-hearted to say no to these girls. After a long drawling day of playing tour guide and protector against the mob, I finally make my way towards the gate, Kai walking beside me.
"You look exhausted"
I shrug. "I usually am, I can't stand school."
He raises an eyebrow. "Then why do you go?"
"Because I like my friends."
He laughs. "Nice answer. I'd have to agree with you on that one. So which way's your house?"
I point lazily down the path. "That way."
He jabs his thumb over his shoulder. "I'm the other way."
We stand and stare at each other. I feel slightly unsure about what to say, but once again Kai comes to my rescue as he offers his hand to me just like before.
"It was great meeting you today. I hope we can be good friends. See you here tomorrow?"
I immediately grab his hand and, for once, give him a genuine smile. "Most definitely. See you round Kai."
I smile at him again before turning around and walking down the path, completely oblivious to the dreamy expression on the man that had now become a part of my life.
I trudge along the sidewalk, briefly wondering where my sister and the others are. Well I did leave a little early. Knowing she would be safe with them, I finally enter my front gates. I walk through them, across my large lawn and up to the front door. I unlock the door, closing it behind me. I make a beeline straight for the staircase and stumble up them and finally, into my bedroom. Despite it only being mid afternoon, the day has left me completely wiped out, physically and mentally. I don't know why, but I'm unable to erase a certain dark haired, green-eyed man out of my head. I shake my head. This isn't fair to Darren. It's not loyal at all to think of someone when I'm already dating someone else. But even so, as I strip off my clothes and collapse onto my bed, my thoughts and dreams are plagued by the face of none other than the handsome, gentle face of Kai Rodgericks. The one person I was so desperately trying not to fall for.
Oh friggin hell…what is that man doing to me?
End of Chapter