Declaimer: "We do not own Kingdom Hearts!"
Kiome-Yasha: "Timbermoonkiss can't work on chapter 4, so I'm doing the honor in writing it for her. I hope to make her proud!"
Saving Gravity Chapter 4
Roxas salvaged whatever food he could muster to find in his cabinets, finding a nice box of Lucky Charms to be the obvious choice towards the inept chef. He knew he had to get more sensible meals though, planning to go food shopping tomorrow before he would pick Ven up from Xion's house. But for now, Lucky Charms was the only delectable thing he could manage to make without burning or screwing anything up. He was such a failure towards his life, rushing to love without knowing any of the consequences of losing his education. Still, he made due, supporting him and his son in order to live their lives together.
He took out a regular plastic bowl, pouring the content of the soft edible cottons with the dry and tan shapes of charms. He carefully made way to the fridge to take some low fat milk out, collecting a spoon along the way as he prepared to finish making his lunch. He poured the white and vanilla looking liquid inside the bowl, mixing and crunching the contents with his rather large spoon. He placed the milk down, sweeping his spoon towards his mouth before claiming a huge bite over it. It was when the harsh crunch echoed across the empty apartment that he noticed how quiet and lonely it was without Ventus around.
He frowned from the isolation he was committing himself to, sighing heavily as he placed the spoon down, 'Maybe I should go out? I mean, it's been awhile since I had a break; ever since the whole divorce mess. I should take as much advantage as I can while Ven is away.' He drew out his cellphone, texting his best friend, checking if he and the others were planning anything tonight.
He pressed send after he got all the text dialed in.
Axel, are you planning anything tonight? -Key of Destiny
It wasn't long until the fiery-headed adult replied back.
Was going to go out for a drink with the guys, why? You lonely? Want me to go over and keep you company? :3 –Flurry of the Dancing Flames
Roxas frowned from the suggestive humor, sighing as he could only smirk from his friend's juvenile reply.
Hehe, no thank you. I just wanted to ask since I'm bored as hell. I miss my son, believe or not. -Key of Destiny
Again, the older adult replied back in an instant.
That's so sweet :P. Why don't you come over then? We're at the usual place, got it memorized? – Flurry of the Dancing Flames
Roxas punched in some letters as he sent another message back.
Oblivion? Right? –Key of Destiny
After a few seconds, Axel sent another text.
So~, you do have it memorized. ;P Guess I'll see you soon! Oh, and invite that cute blonde neighbor of yours! I bet she'll have fun! TTYL! –Flurry of the Dancing Flames
Roxas blushed from the suggestion, shaking it off, as he felt too embarrassed to actually invite her to such a place; it was known to be a bar/club, something that looked unsuitable for her innocent nature. Still, he couldn't help but to think about the recommendation, gazing over at the counter as he pondered. He left it alone for now though, jumping into the shower as he prepared himself to get ready. He threw on some baggy navy jeans, but they were tight enough around his waist in order to reveal the lines of his flawless muscles. He put on a white shirt that had cross-designs of black checkers across his chest. He then placed a smooth and black leather blazer over him, giving him that slick look he needed for tonight as he inserted his feet inside his black and white converse. He went to the mirror; shaking up his hair as he got his usual untamed mane of spiky blond, which contained a nice swoosh to the side of his bangs.
He grinned from the display of his features, heading out the door as he grabbed his car keys by the handle. He locked the door behind him, his keys jiggling as he tried to stuff them back inside his pocket. He indolently gazed over at Namine's apartment door, reading the gold embossing of her room number that spelled '212'. He was tempted to knock on the carved entrance of hardwood, walking over as he stood there in anticipation.
He didn't know how long he had preoccupied the spot, and it wasn't until receiving a text from Axel that he discovered the time. He published a lament sigh, deciding to just go without her, but before he could rotate his body to leave, the door opened randomly without warning. He was caught unaware, blinking rapidly from the sudden motion as he stared at the unfamiliar woman in front of him.
She had sea-blue eyes, her hair matching the breezy color with perfect balance of cerulean. She was pretty tall, but he still held inches compared to her height, containing a slim figure that men would just drool over. She looked young as well, probably about twenty-six years old at most, two years older than him it would seem. She had a pleasant look about her, her features soft and gentle as a smile bloomed on her face with slight amusement.
"Have you've been standing here the whole time?" She asked with a soft tone, adjusting the portfolio package she seemed to be carrying underneath one of her arms.
Roxas was stunned, tripping over his words as he tried to explain, "Well…you see…I was just…. um…"
"Aqua? Who's that at the door?" He recognized the serene voice to be Namine's, alerting his senses as he tried to search for the girl behind the female who decided to perch herself by the door.
Aqua giggled from his anxious scouting, turning slightly away in order to reveal the blonde artist, "It's some guy…" She turned to him, inquiring an answer of his name, "Um…"
"Roxas…." He simply replied.
She beamed with astonishment, "So, you're Roxas…" She studied over his features with curiosity, "Namine has talked a lot about you. It's a pleasure to meet your acquaintance." She used her free hand in order to exchange a friendly handshake with him.
Roxas smiled from the offer, reaching his hand over to hers in order to share a compromising handshake, "It's nice to you meet you too."
It was at this moment Namine came over at the two, grinning at the sight of her neighbor with a sweet greeting, "Roxas! I'm so glad to see you! Did you need something?"
He chuckled cagily, ruffling the back of his blond tresses, "Sort of…but it's nothing too big." He shuffled around in his feet, "I was going out to see my friends tonight, and I just thought…well that is…I wanted to ask if you would like to join me?" He asked subtly with a slight blush appearing on his handsome tan cheeks.
Aqua nodded from the idea, noticing the insecure expression Namine suddenly produced, "Of course she would like to go! Come on, Namine! It could be fun!" She edged the girl on, hoping she would agree.
She was a bit hesitant though, causing Roxas to become perplex as her usual joyful face disappeared in a instant, 'What's with the sudden change? Did I do something wrong?'
"Don't worry, I'll be sure to deliver your artwork to the buyer, just go out and have fun; you need something like this." She then knew the right words to convince the apprehensive blonde, "Do it for your cousin, Terra, at least; he worries about you, you know."
"I know…" The girl softly agreed, bowing her head with distress. She then surrendered to the woman's gentle prying, "Okay, I'll go…"
"Wonderful!" Aqua exclaimed happily, turning over at the bewildered and youthful father, "Take care of her." He simply nodded mindlessly, becoming confused over the conversation a bit.
The older female jolted her arm in order to secure her grip on the portfolio, "Well, I should be going; Terra probably expects me to be home early to cook dinner. I'll see you guys later." She hugged Namine affectionately, "I'll be back to visit soon." The girl gave a meek nod in conformity against the woman's shoulder.
Aqua soon gave them a suggestive wink, clearing a path down the hall as she decided to take the elevator lift. When she entered the compartment, Roxas decided to speak, "Who was that, exactly?"
Namine lightly fiddled with her door, swinging it forward and back, "That's Aqua; she's my cousin Terra's wife. She often comes over to pick up some of my work and drops them off to the buyers."
Roxas nodded in understanding, "Oh, I see…" He shuffled his hands inside his pant's pockets, "So, are you really willing to come with me?"
She shook off whatever seemed to be bothering her, giving him a brilliant smile of reassurance, "Of course! Let me just get changed and everything." She began to close the door, "Just wait out here, I'll be back in a jiffy!" She exclaimed cheerfully, entering the domain of her apartment as she left him out in the hall to wait.
He gave a forlorn smile, 'Jiffy, huh? Just a minute ago, she seemed bothered by what Aqua had said, but why? Namine is one of the most happiest people I know…what could have caused her to feel upset?'
At that moment, the young twenty-four year old woman stepped out from her personal dwelling. Her body escorted a white fluttering tank top, some tight navy jeans with comfortable black heels. She was slipping on her matching jean blazer before speaking, "Ready!" She perkily announced, closing and locking the door behind her.
He melted from her usual optimistic tone of enthusiasm, neglecting his thoughts as he was enchanted by her warm glow, "Alright then, let's go. The place is called Oblivion, it's not far from the local area." She nodded from his explanation, following after him down the hall as they made way to the garage area where his car was being kept.
They both hopped into the seats, Roxas initiating the engine to start as he punctured his keys into the ignition. He drove them off into the bustling town, avoiding many obstacles of rush hour traffic, doing their best in reaching their destination in time. It was completely quiet in the car, the both of them finding no real interest to speak as they enjoyed the calming and serene sound of the music that was playing on the radio, but as quiet as it was, it was somehow natural for them.
They pulled up to the curve when they saw the long line of people outside, all waiting for a chance to get inside the famous club; which luckily enough for Roxas, he knew the owner pretty well. The place was considered a secret guild known as Organization XIII, containing the most illegal jugs of alcohol, all recommended by the owner who had tried them all. After parking the vehicle, Roxas stepped out of the car, reaching over to the other side in order to open Namine's door.
"Such a gentlemen…" She lightly claimed, giggling as he blushed bashfully from the compliment.
He led her to the entrance, finding Lexaeus to be the bouncer tonight instead of Xaldin, "Hey Lexaeus, came over to party with you guys. And I brought along a friend tonight." He looked over at his female companion with glee.
She gave a timid introduction, "Hi, I'm Namine, nice to meet you."
The large man nodded with acceptance, unhooking the chain as he allowed Roxas and his date through; there was people who complaint and moaned irritably from this, losing their own benefits in getting inside.
Before they entered inside the building though, Lexaeus spoke with interest, "How's Ventus doing?"
The blond male smiled from the friendly concern, "He's fine, he's with Xion this weekend." The man gave a disapproving look, but Roxas didn't take any mind to it, "This place is booming, looks like Xemnas will be getting his fair share tonight." The large mammoth agreed with pleasantry, ending their conversation short, as he still needed to patrol; also the fact he was known to be a man with few words.
Roxas pounded a friendly fist upon the muscle's large back, heading inside with Namine still in toe. Already they were bombarded with a large crowd of people who were just dancing and raving over the loud and thriving techno music. Namine drew herself close to Roxas, feeling like she was out of her element as she clung to his arm for security. He chuckled from her reaction, finding it to be cute as he safely led her through the rambunctious crowd. He spotted his best friend by the bar, adjusting his way through the tight space of rowdy and drunk patrons as he made his way over. He made sure to have a protective hold on Namine's waist, keeping her near him so she wouldn't get lost.
Axel was the first to notice the blond, celebrating his arrival with a cheer as he passed a drink over to him, "Roku! So glad you and your girl next door could make it!" He hollered with a brilliant smirk, chunking a pure shot of vodka, leaving his throat to sizzle as he endured the bitter taste.
Roxas declined the drink his best friend was offering to him, "No thanks, Axel. I want to drive home safely tonight. Where are the others?"
The flame-headed adult shrugged ungracefully, "I don't know, I think Larxene went to go dance for a bit. Demyx…he's probably throwing up somewhere. And Xigbar, that guy is probably hitting on every girl on the dance floor."
"Figures…" Roxas muttered with a sigh, leaving Namine to worry.
Axel ignored the blond as he took attention on the female who accompanied him, "Namine, it's so nice to meet you again; hope you memorized my name by now. Care for a drink?" She admittedly shook her head with refusal, "No thank you, Axel. I'm not a fan of drinking."
"That's like saying you're not a fan of water!" They heard someone shout from behind them, turning their heads over to the intruder of their conversation.
They discovered the person to have dirty-blond hair and dull green eyes; probably because of all the intoxication he just consumed in the matter of the hour. There was a thin and tall blonde female who was with him, her features resembling that of a nymph, carrying emerald eyes of mischief. The older male accompanying them was tall as well, containing streaks of white highlights across his raven like mane, sporting a ponytail at the base of his neck; he also had an eye patch, which left Namine wondering how he got it.
"Larxene! Demyx! Xigbar! I'm glad to see you guys!" Roxas announced happily.
"Hey there, Tiger! It's been awhile! I was starting to think you abandoned us!" Xigbar proclaimed with a gruff tone, snatching the drink Roxas declined before dunking it down without any form of struggle. He soon noticed Namine's ravishing form, giving him the honor to smirk with a pleasing glint of lust in his eyes, "Oh~, who might this young lady be?" Roxas admittedly stood in front of the woman, blocking her away from Xigbar's suggestive gaze.
The man couldn't help but to laugh loudly with amusement, "I get it now! She's yours, huh, dude? Wow, you sure got another one quickly since your divorce!"
Roxas reddened as he quickly tried to explain the misunderstanding, "It's nothing like that! Namine is just a sweet person! No way will I let a guy like you get a chance with her." The artist blushed from the single father's words, fidgeting bashfully behind him.
"Aww, would you look at that! They're blushing!" Larxene insensitively replied, teasing the pair.
"Dammit, you guys never change." Roxas sneered carefully, "Always picking on the little guy."
Demyx laughed and patted the young adult's gravity-defying hair, "Now you know how I feel when you guys pick on me!"
The male growled with frustration, which gave Axel the sign to break in on the conversation, "Alright, that's enough guys. Show some respect! This young lady accompanying our little Roku is his new next-door neighbor, Namine. She's been helping him adjust to the single life of fatherhood, which he fails miserably at."
Roxas muttered with sarcasm, "Geez…thanks Axel." Though Namine giggled from the comment.
Xigbar scuffed with hilarity, "Haha, and here I thought she was his new girlfriend."
Larxene decided to add in her own words, "Who knows, maybe Roxas might get himself lucky."
He bowed his head with embarrassment, "It's nothing like that…" He was beginning to sound like a broken record.
Demyx spoke once more before spontaneously passing out, "It was nice meeting you, Namine…!" He collapsed like a brick, falling to the concrete below without any warning.
The group minus Namine gave a disgruntled sigh, "We'll be catching you guys later, make sure you come over more often!" Xigbar stated cordially, dragging the remote drunk across the floor towards Xemnas's office on the upper floor.
The vixen departed as well with the two males, "We'll see you guys later, we have business to attend to anyway over shipment." She gave them a lazy wave of her hand before vanishing into the crowd after the two.
"They're a interesting group of friends of yours, Roxas." Namine respectfully praised with a humble smile.
"Please tell me you're joking." He frowned from her weird sense of humor.
"Well kiddies, I guess I'll leave you two alone. I actually have a meeting to attend to with the big boss as well." Axel announced carefully, placing his empty glass down on the counter.
Namine quirked her head to the side, "Boss…?" She wondered over the man who everyone was referring to as the owner.
The redhead elaborated, "Yeah, our boss, Xemnas; he runs the place. So, I'll catch you guys later!" Axel gave them both a pat on their shoulders, taking off soon afterwards through the route the others had taken.
And then there were two; both adults were left stranded by the bar as they tried to spark up some type of conversation. Luckily for Roxas, Namine was able to break the ice by sitting herself down by a stool, bringing up a topic he was quite familiar with, "So, how's Ventus doing with Xion?"
The Father of the child decided to sit beside her, ordering a glass of regular diet coke, "He's doing fine, I called him earlier in the morning. Seems like he's giving Xion a handful; he won't stop crying." He actually chuckled over his ex-wife's misfortune.
"Aww, the poor thing." She sympathized with the mother and child, as it seemed like they weren't getting along, "Well I'm sure he'll be happy to be back home tomorrow." She smiled sincerely from the thought, missing the infant, but she wondered if the male beside her felt the same, "Roxas, you miss Ventus, don't you?
The twenty-four year old spluttered from the ridiculous question, "Of course I do! What kind of question is that?"
She quickly apologized, feeling ashamed for asking such a thing, "I'm sorry…I didn't mean for it to sound that way…"
He shook his head, dismissing her apology, "Don't worry about it, it's okay…" He gave her a genuine smile, one that brought her own to return, "I'm going to be spoiling that kid when I pick him up tomorrow. I never realized how lonely it could be without him in the apartment." Soon the drink that he ordered was delivered to him, never needing to pay since he had a discount from the manager who owned the club.
He solemnly took a sip of his drink, "It's actually quiet without him around. I actually found it to be unsettling."
Namine smiled, agreeing with him as her own demons seemed to surface, "I know what you mean…" He seemed to notice the change in her tone, turning over to her in order to inspect her features. She looked lovely as ever, an angel dropped by the heavens, and as cheesy as that sounded, it was considered the truth to Roxas.
"Um, hey Namine…I was wondering…" He was caught off guard when he heard a giggle ring out from her, "Huh?"
She tried to muffle her chuckle with the palm of her hand, "You have something by your lips." She stated with mirth, picking up a napkin that was nearby, "Here, let me clean it off for you; it's probably from the lemon pulp in your drink." She carefully brought her hand over, getting closer to his face in order to wipe the smudge off.
Roxas's face erupted into a nice shade of red, feeling the heat of Namine's breath brush against his cheeks. He was tempted to kiss her, seeing the slim curves of her pink lips as they glistened underneath the flashing neon lights inside the room. He was being drawn in like a magnet; something Namine took great care in noticing. She became flustered by his dazed approach, pulling away from him like he was on fire.
"Roxas…?" She meekly asked, finding the position he was about to commit to be slightly uncomfortable. She felt disheartened from her reaction, the memories from her past clouding over her judgment.
He realized what he was about to do, stuttering as he tried to explain, "Namine…! I'm sorry! I didn't mean to! Don't think I was trying to take advantage of you or anything…I just…well that is…" He mentally scolded himself, 'Dammit, you idiot! Look at what you just did! Now she must think I'm some sort of creep!'
She shook her head though, frowning from the situation, "I'm…I'm sorry…Roxas…I…I got to go!" She abruptly took off from her seat, but Roxas grabbed her hand before she could, "Wait…! What's wrong? Namine, I didn't mean to…honest…"
She gloomed sorrowfully, her chest beginning to clamp up, making it hard for her to breathe, "No, it's not your fault. I just…" She couldn't find any other words, "Don't worry about me, I know how to get back to the apartment. You stay here and enjoy being with your friends." She snatched her hand away from his, blending into the mass crowd of sweaty dancers as she desperately searched for the exit.
"Namine!" He called out anxiously, about to take off after her before Axel showed up.
The fiery-haired drinker stopped in his tracks, asking with concern, "Hey, did something happen?"
The blond could only sigh in distress, becoming disquieted, 'Namine…'
End Chapter
Kiome-Yasha: "Finished! Leave reviews for us please! Also credit to ChibixBabe for the fluff idea! :D"