A/N: Thank you for the reviews! I was tied between Julius or Selena as Akahana's best friend but I love Julius more so he won. :3 Anyway, enjoy!

CHAPTER 1

Blackmail

-x-

It was early spring and Mira had some important business to attend to so she left me and Julius to mind the accessory shop. Two seasons had passed since that night. Of course, it was just like any other night I spent at the bar. It didn't mean a thing to me. I had plenty of casual flings the following weeks after. The only aspect that distinguished that night from any other night was the fact that he was different. The talking, the dancing, the kiss against the wall… I have never experienced anything like it. No other man came close to being as interesting or fun. It was kind of a shame.

I placed my elbow on the counter and rested my chin in my palm. I stared jadedly out the window and watched as the cherry blossom leaves fluttered through the serene wind. It's a beautiful, sunny Tuesday and I have to spend it at work. I huffed, lost in my own thoughts. I was aware that Julius was blabbering on about pointless things again, but I had zoned out halfway through. I was suddenly snapped out of my fantasy when he raised his usually composed voice.

"Hey, Hana! Have you even been listening to a single word I've said?" The amethyst haired boy stomped his foot and waved his hands in my face. I glanced at him, rolling my eyes. I could tell he was only becoming more irritated with me. "What's gotten into you lately? Your head's been up in the clouds all day..."

I sighed, "Sorry, I was just thinking. What were you saying?"

Julius rolled his eyes, running a hand through hair. "I was just saying how bored I am. We barely get business on Tuesdays. It'll be awhile before Mira comes back, I say we go get something to eat."

"But what about the shop?"

"Don't worry, we'll just say we're closed in the meantime. It's not like anyone will come by anyway," he winked. "Business has been slow lately."

I turned back to the window. Julius's suggestion was a good idea, I was feeling rather peckish. Staying cooped up in the shop wasn't exactly pleasant either, but I felt a little worried that Mira may return. She did, after all, warn us to stay by the shop at all times until she returned. She was strict, especially on me, since I'm her apprentice, and I certainly did not want to get on her bad side.

"If Mira comes back and finds out we've left the store unattended…" I mumbled, feeling slightly worried.

Julius groaned, placing his hands on his hips. "Don't worry, she won't. You worry waaaaay too much." He chuckled and latched his hand onto my arm. "Now, come on. I can't drain my beautiful body of the nutrients it craves!" He jerked me towards the door and locked it before placing up a 'be back soon' sign.

"So, where are we going?" I questioned as I shut my eyes and titled my head high, savoring the tranquil wind as it blew against my skin.

"Ocarina Inn."

We made our way to the Garmon mine cart which traveled through to Harmonica Town, where we headed off to the inn to satisfy our starved bodies.

-x-

We walked into Ocarina Inn, it was desolate as usual.

Colleen greeted me and Julius before directing us over to a nearby table.

"My daughter will be with you soon to take your orders, for now just make yourselves comfortable," she politely informed us before pacing away to her husband, who stood behind the counter and waved.

Julius placed his elbows on the table and rested his chin between his fingers.

"So Hana, what were you thinking about before anyway?" He questioned, curiosity flickering through his ruby eyes.

I brushed my fingers. "The Flower Festival."

He sighed, removing his chin from his fingers. "You're not going to skip it again, are you?"

"It's not my kind of thing," I shrugged.

It's true. Something about getting amorously cozy with another as you observe the Cherry Blossom trees quiver through the spring breeze doesn't exactly scream 'exciting!' to me. I never did like romantic festivals anyway. I always found myself skipping them. A part of me didn't care, but I still felt a tinge of jealousy, especially when Kathy would brag about her day with Owen or Selena would boast about the silly things Luke would do to grab her attention. Sometimes I wish someone would do the something for me, nothing lovey-dovey, just something to grab my attention, you know, to make me feel special once in awhile.

Julius frowned. "But Cherry Blossoms are beautiful."

"So is sleep."

"Come on, we can go together, if you'd like," he winked.

I sighed, "But weren't you planning on asking Candace?"

"Well, I think she hates me, so she'll probably not want to go." He traced his finger along the table and I could tell he was upset.

I rolled my eyes, "I'll think about it." His face instantly lighted up but I was obviously lying, I only wanted to get him off my back since I knew I was going to skip the festival regardless.

"Hey guys!" Maya shouted gleefully as she rushed over to us, swaying back and forth on her heel with a huge grin plastered across her face.

"Hush, Maya. Keep your voice down," Colleen scolded her daughter who only squirmed in response.

I rolled my eyes. I never really did like Maya. We didn't get along, her overly cheerful and bubbly demeanor got on my nerves. Not to mention, one time she almost killed me when I foolishly tried one of her dishes. I had to spend two long nights at the clinic because of her. I never really forgave her for it, even though I said I did, seeing as I still hold contempt for the airhead.

Julius smiled, throwing his purple hair back. "My, my, you seem rather cheerful today, Maya. Tell me, did something good happen?"

He was always so nosy and curious about everyone's business. He was the kind of person who just had to know all the affairs happening around the island. Who's wearing what, who's dating who, etc. Not to mention he can be quite judgmental of everyone's sense of style. Luckily for me, I passed the test. I guess having a fashionista of a best friend does come in handy at times.

Maya grinned, hugging the notepad in her hands. "Chase has returned to the island! Now I'll be able to get cooking lessons, and... well, I kind of missed him," she bit her lip and lowered her head but I could see the slight flush creeping up her neck.

A smirk crept onto Julius's lips. "Chase is back, eh? What a surprise."

I sighed heavily on purpose. I was beginning to get annoyed. We came here to eat, not have pointless chitchat.

"Look, can you just take our orders already?" I snapped, glaring at Maya, who stood frozen by the side of our table.

She smiled sheepishly and held her notepad high in front of her. "S-Sorry, Akahana! What would you guys like?"

I felt a little guilty for acting rudely towards her, but like I said, I can't stand bubbly dispositions. I'm not one to care about the lives of other people or their business, so maybe I'm selfish, but that's how I am.

"I'll have the Seafood Fried Rice," I stated and Maya scribbled down on her notepad.

Julius pondered for a moment, scratching his chin. "Give me the Raspberry Pie, my dear." He winked at Maya, who only frowned in response as she wrote down his order.

"Okay, one Seafood Fried Rice and a Raspberry Pie, coming up!" She said gleefully and began to run off to the kitchen before pausing and glancing over her shoulder. "You guys are lucky because Yolanda is letting Chase cook your meals today. I'm sure they'll taste great." She smiled and sped off.

Time passed as we waited for our meals.

I turned to Julius, who seemed rather bored as he observed his fingernails.

"So... who is Chase anyway? Maya sounds like she really admires him," I grunted.

Julius looked up at me, shining me a sweet smile. "Oh, he used to live here a few years ago, then he moved away to the mainland to study culinary arts. He used to be Yolanda's apprentice. He's actually quite a talented cook. He's the kind of guy who would always win first place at the cooking festival but wouldn't even stay to claim the prize." He looped a finger through his violet hair and began to twirl a strand. "I guess it's not much of a surprise that he's back, he did say he would return once he completed his course."

"I see," I nodded. He sounded rather… arrogant. Then again, I'm not one to talk when it came to arrogance. "Well, if he can cook then I expect one hell of a satisfying meal."

"And a satisfying meal you will get."

I jumped as a sharp voice emitted from the rear of me. I felt a presence behind me as our meals were placed on the table. The whiff of our food rocketed through my nostrils. I breathed it in and licked my lips. My Seafood Fried Rice smelt wonderful.

Julius clapped his hands together. "Bravo Chase, your service is always so prompt. It is such a pleasant surprise to have you back."

"Hm, yeah, enjoy your meal," he responded in a dull tone.

Julius shook his head slowly. "Ooh, still distant as ever. What a shame."

He jabbed his fork into his Raspberry Pie before sticking it into his mouth. He licked his lips, savoring the taste and smiled. "Well, at least your food is still exceptional, unlike your fashion sense."

I watched Julius's eyes trail up and down the boy behind me before I awkwardly started to eat my own meal.

I heard the boy heave a sigh. "You know, I'm a cook. I take pride in the presentation and taste of my food, not my clothes." His tone more sharp this time. "I can see your choice of clothes is still based on an indeterminate sexual preference."

Julius spat his tongue out. "Whatever, carrot head."

"My hair is peach…"

"Same thing."

"Just shut up and eat your food," he snapped, and I could hear his fleeting footsteps.

Julius gasped. "Oh, how rude. Chase, you didn't even introduce yourself to my friend, Akahana, here." He stood up and grasped the boy by the arm, pulling him in front of me.

He stumbled into my sight as I glanced up.

My whole body suddenly froze and I turned pale as I started to choke on my food.

No way! It can't be…

I felt my body stiffen as I started to tremble.

"Hana, you okay?" Julius shouted, rushing over to me. I tried to swat him away as I pushed my hands against the table and ascended from my chair.

Chase blinked as the two of us stared at each other. Those violet eyes, that messy peach hair, even the hair clips?

A strange scent of oranges roamed around his body. He wore a green apron and sandals. He seemed different but it was definitely him. It had to be!

My heart was throbbing violently in my chest and my breathing hastened. I had to get out. I needed to get away before he could recall who I was.

Why? Why? Out of all people!

He stared at me bemused. I bet I look like a real idiot to him right now, especially with the way I just suddenly stood up like a dog had bitten my leg.

I parted my mouth slightly, but no words came out. I felt the blood rush to my cheeks and I turned to Julius who was frowning. "We have to get back to the store."

"But we haven't even finished our food yet…" he groaned. I shrugged my shoulders and aggressively jerked him by the arm as I stormed for the door. I gasped when I felt a strong grip latch onto my other arm and I found myself stumbling backwards.

"Have we met before?" Chase asked, his eyes scanning my face as he tightened his clutch on my arm. "I swear you look familiar."

I violently shook my head and stared down at the ground.

"N-No, I don't think so. I'm sure you've mistaken me for another girl."

I snatched my hand away from his hold. Why did that feel like déjà vu? I yanked a puzzled Julius and dragged him out the door, leaving behind a stunned Chase.

My heart was racing so fast. I didn't even have time to process my own thoughts, I just continued to move my feet as rapidly as I could. Julius was cursing and yelling at me as I pulled him along through the town back to the shop. I didn't care how stupid I looked. I just needed to get away. Away from the Inn, away from the embarrassment, and, especially, away from him.

-x-

"Want to explain to me what THAT was all about?" Julius cried, pulling at his hair in frustration as he paced back and forth around the shop.

I walked over to a wall and threw my head against it as a loud groan escaped my lips.

"I can't believe he lives here now…"

I stared up at the ceiling and curled my fist as I shook it in the air threateningly. "Stupid Harvest Goddess, what are you doing to me? The guys that I meet at the bar are not meant to be seen a second time!"

I slid down the wall and fell onto the ground before crawling up into a ball and hugging my knees. "Or worse, for another fifty thousand times now that he freakin' lives here."

Julius stood in silence, watching me with his beady red eyes. His irritated expression soon faded into a smirk.

"Oh, so you two know each other, hm?" He snickered and clapped his hands together. "Oh-ho-ho, how juicy! Give me the details, pronto!"

I looked up at him and frowned. "Buzz off, Julius."

He pouted, waggling his index finger in front of me. "Hey, you wasted my money on a meal I didn't even get to finish. I think you owe me."

Damn it, he was right. Not only did I make a huge fool of myself, but I wasted our money and meals too.

In that moment, I ended up confessing to Julius that I had slept with Chase.

His expression shifted from amusement to worry to disgust and back to more amusement. He was practically on the floor at one point hysterically laughing at me. I grimaced and tightly held my knees against my chest. I wanted to grab a chair and whack him over the head with it. What was so bad about sleeping with Chase? It's not like I'm ashamed. Well, now that he moved onto the island… I guess I am a little. He seemed like such an ass back at the Inn. He wasn't that bad that night, was he? Then again, I don't really remember what he was like.

Julius exploded into a fit of chortles again.

"Chase? CHASE? No way!" He continued to laugh. "I don't believe you. Are you sure we're talking about the same guy? I mean this is Chase we're talking about! Chase! CHASE!" He continued to repeat his name, which was starting to ring repetitively through my mind.

"I'm being serious! It's him! There's no doubting it. I remember those violet eyes and his messy peach hair. He even has those hair clips." I protested, shooting a glare at Julius as I attempted to kick him when he sat down next to me on the floor. Shamefully, I missed. He threw his arm around my shoulder and pulled me closer to him.

"I always assumed Chase was, you know, a virgin," he whispered in my ear before pulling away and laughing again. "There's no way he can get a girl with that attitude." He held a hand to his mouth and sniggered quietly. "What did you do? Slip some roofies into his drink?"

Julius was beginning to make me doubt if I had the right guy. I was so sure it was him! But what if I'm wrong? What if I made a mistake? No, no, it's definitely him. There's no other explanation, it's gotta be him. Although, I wish it wasn't… I wish I was wrong. Seeing him around is only going to serve as a reminder of the past, and I just need to forget about it all.

"Shut up, Julius. He was different to most of the guys I met at the Jackson bar. He wasn't keen at all, but eventually, I got through to him."

Julius sniggered.

"I feel so dirty knowing my best friend had sex with the town cook."

He leaned closer to me, the curves of his lips growing into a smirk. "Tell me, Hana. What size is his spatula? Did he grill you well?" He laughed as he continued to mock me. "Was he tasty? Did he butter your muffin?"

"Oh my god, Julius, SHUT UP!" I screamed, cupping his mouth to hush him. My face was beet red.

Julius chuckled, pulling my hand away. "Relax, Hana. I'm just curious. Was he the best sex you've ever had?"

"JULIUS!" I slapped him in the face and he clutched his throbbing cheek, rubbing it gently. "You're such a pervert, shut up already," I scoffed and crossed my arms.

Julius smirked, still holding his sore cheek. "But this is so juicy. Two ex-lovers!"

"We're not ex-lovers!" I snapped.

He bit his lip, pressing his fingers together. "Oh, my. This is even juicier than that time everyone thought Hamilton and Yolanda were gettin' it on behind the Town Hall."

I clutched my fists and grasped Julius by the collar, pulling him close to the bridge of my nose. I shot him a stern glare, anger was coiling up inside of me.

"I swear to the Harvest Goddess, Julius, you better not tell ANYONE about this. You know shit spreads like butter around here." I tightened my hold. "I'll end our friendship if you do!"

Julius blinked, his amused expression faltered and I could tell he understood how angered and ashamed I felt. I released him and fell back against the wall. He motioned his hands over his lips like a zip.

"I'll keep your dirty little secret on one condition," he said as a smirk crept onto his lips.

I sighed, crossing my arms. "What?"

"If you'll come to the Flower Festival with me this Saturday."

-x-