A/N: Hiya guys! I'm back with the fourth chapter! I admit, this is one of the longest chapters that I've written in my life with just over 6800 words. I don't even know why I ended up writing this long! I just kept writing down my ideas. In this chapter, a few pivotal characters will be introduced, one of the reasons why I wrote an incredibly long chapter. Also, since college is three weeks away from starting, I would have to say that I won't be updating for a while, unless I acquire some major motivation. I honestly don't know if you guys are gonna like this chapter, but I'll just have to see for my self, yeah?
Review Responses!
Sin's Punishment: Oops, sorry for that, hehe. Honestly didn't see that :). Anyways, I'm still thinking about sprinkling some Roxiri in the story. Although, I have no plans of doing so at the moment.
KingdomHeartsKeyBladeMaster: Thanks! :) Well, it's going to be all Roxas in this chapter, but I do guarantee you that it will be in the future. The whole Roxas-not-existing thing will be explained in this chapter too. :D
aftermoon: Sora and Roxas have different schedules, that's why they aren't always with each other. And yes, he came to school. Thank you so much! :)
PurgeJuls: Thanks so much! :) Yep, Riku will be introduced in this chapter, along with a few more supporting characters.
Guest: Sorry about that. XD Thanks a bunch! :)
The young blonde sighed deeply as he rested his forehead against his locker. He felt dizzy, as if he just hopped off a ridiculously mortifying roller-coaster ride. He blinked a couple of times to clear his vision up. When he was certain that he wasn't seeing two of everything he looked at, he opened his locker and grabbed his books.
He fumbled with his textbooks, for as he tried to compile them, yesterday's events kept replaying on his mind. He forgot that the school year had already started, so he ended up working his butt off until 8:30 PM last night. As he was taking a sip from his energy drink, he suddenly remembered that he was supposed to meet his siblings behind the school gates after school.
He rushed back home, managed to evade his parents' wrath and his siblings' nagging, shower up and get a good night's sleep. Although he was overcome with guilt the next morning when he saw the look on his parents' faces. He could tell that they wanted to ask him why he didn't get home in time. Still, they didn't. They just tried to understand their son.
Unknown to them, the deed only infuriated Roxas. If there was one thing he hated, it was worrying people-especially his parents. He could've told them the truth if they asked, but since they didn't he didn't. Not because they wanted to burden them, it's just that he didn't feel like doing so.
He sighed again, he didn't want to be late for class. He closed his locker and turned on his heels. Before he could take a step forward, he felt someone shoulder-check him. He stumbled, but maintained his balance. He heard chuckles erupt in front of him, so he casted his gaze forward and wasn't too pleased with what or rather who he saw. There stood three figures, among them, was the person who scarred his forehead and his pride.
"What's up, doofus?" Seifer said haughtily as the other two beside him snickered.
As much as Roxas wanted to knock the lights out of the beanie-clad bully, he decided not to. He knew that if he did so, he would only lower himself to Seifer's level. People who try to pull you down are already below you, anyway. He remained silent and tried to walk past his agitator.
However, before he could side-step around Seifer, he felt a rough tug on his collar. Before he knew it, he was slammed into the nearby locker. He felt pain course throughout his neck and back.
"Oh, growing some balls now, huh? Seifer mocked as he tightened his grip.
Roxas ignored him and just kept his eyes downcast. He didn't move, he didn't speak, he didn't do anything. Seifer seemed to have been angered by this. He hated to be ignored, especially by a nerd like Roxas. Since he had an extremely short fuse, he didn't hesitate any further. He threw a bone-cracking, bruise-inflicting punch on Roxas' abdomen.
Roxas cringed and hissed in pain. Much to Seifer's frustration, he still refused to talk nor look at him.
Seifer gave out a fake laugh. "Okay, tough guy, you still won't budge eh?" Seifer punched him again, harder this time(if that was even possible).
For a moment, Roxas feared that his ribs broke. It hurt like hell, it really did. Still, he remained resilient. He didn't do anything.
Seifer's anger reached its peak. He was about to punch Roxas again, until a voice halted him.
"Hey bully! Why not pick on someone your own size for a change."
Roxas averted his gaze and two tall boys. One was a gaunt, blue-eyed, blonde-haired boy who stood about six feet tall. Another one, who seemed to be the owner of the voice interrupted Seifer, was a fairly-built, green-eyed, spiky-haired redhead who stood a few inches taller than his companion. The redhead also seemed to have tattoos gracing his arms and face.
"Who are you?" Seifer questioned. "Why do you care, huh? You got a bone to pick with me?"
The redhead just shook his head with a smile. Seifer turned to one of his companions. "Rai, get him!"
"With pleasure!" Rai tried to punch the redhead, but he grabbed Rai's wrist, twisted it, then punched him in the face. Rai was out cold by the time he hit the floor.
Seifer's eyes widened. He knew that he couldn't beat these guys. He turned to Roxas before speaking. "This ain't over, doofus." He dropped him and ran off with his other companion.
Roxas fell on his butt, clutching his stomach. The redhead approached him and knelt down beside him.
"Hey kid, you okay?"
Roxas turned his gaze towards the redhead before nodding. "Yeah, I'm good."
The redhead chuckled. "Doesn't look like it to me. Come on." He got up and held out his hand.
At first, he hesitated. Never before had anyone been so kind to him. Everyone always ignored him and left him be. It would be a stroke of luck if he would even come across someone who would open the door for him. He decided to quit being a brat and took his hand.
"Heck of a job holding your ground, kid."
"Yeah! Not a lot of lower classmen would pull off something like that." The other blonde added.
"Anyways, I'm Axel Evans, nice to meet you." The redhead introduced as he held his hand out again.
For a moment, Roxas hesitated. He wasn't sure if he could trust this Axel guy or not. Sure, he saved him, but that didn't mean that he earned his trust. At such a young age, he learned that true friends don't come by too often. Also, he knows that it takes more than generosity and kindness to become a true friend. However, he did save him. The least he could do to repay him was to introduce himself.
"I'm Roxas, Roxas Helterbrand." Roxas replied as he shook Axel's hand.
Axel's eyes widened a little. "Helterbrand? Well whaddya know, a child of the famous Devin Helterbrand." Roxas scratched the back of his head at this.
"Helterbrand, eh? Well, I'm Demyx Turner. Nice to meet ya."
"Pleasure's all mine." Roxas curtsied as he shook Demyx's hand.
"So, Roxas, what year level are you in?" Axel asked.
"I'm in the seventh grade."
"You're a freshman?" Roxas nodded. "I see. No wonder you're on every bully's radar." Inwardly, Axel was curious. Weren't the Helterbrands highly-regarded by everyone in Twilight Town? So why wasn't Roxas being treated the same way? He wanted to ask the young blonde, but did otherwise.
"Just keep doing what you're doing, kiddo. You seem to act mature for your age. Most kids like you would've cried or chickened out back there." Demyx interjected.
Roxas gave him a small smile, something he rarely did. Maybe these guys aren''t too bad after all. "Thanks, I guess."
"What you're doing is great and all, but you have to learn how to defend yourself. You can't always let others have their way with you. Sometimes, you have to throw a punch or two from time to time." Axel advised.
"I dunno about that. I usually do nothing to avoid complicating things. Violence only leads to more violence anyway." Roxas answered.
"That's true and all, but we're in high school, Roxas. And if you've forgotten, this is the twenty-first century, dude. You keep that up, you're gonna end up being somebody's beotch."
Axel's words made sense to him. He is close to becoming Seifer's beotch. He didn't want that now, did he?
"Hm, I guess you're right, but I'm not really the brawler-type."
"You don't have to be one! All you need is some guts! It doesn't matter if you don't hit 'em too hard! Just hit 'em! At least he'll know that you're not afraid of him."
Roxas smiled. "Okay, I'll do that the next time he comes up to me."
Axel chuckled. "Good! Don't be a wimp, okay? Learn how to man the hell up."
"Ax, we're gonna be late for class. Our teacher's not going to be too happy if we show up late again." Demyx whined.
Axel just rolled his eyes. "Not like I give a thing about my grades. And I don't like Music that much anyway."
"Just go, you two. Wouldn't want you to get in trouble on my account." Roxas urged.
"Trouble? Oh no, my man, we don't get into no trouble."
"But Axel, it's Music period up next. MUSIC. You'll finally get to show off those drum skills that you developed from last summer."
"Come on, Dem. You just wanna show off your little sitar, don't you?"
Demyx grinned sheepishly. "Well yeah that too, but that's besides the point."
Axel sighed. "I admit, it does sound inviting."
"Of course it does! Larxene's gonna be there, ya know?"
"That too..."
"See? Come on, Axel!"
Axel huffed. "Urgh, fine! Catch ya later, Roxas." He said as he waved.
"Yeah, later, Rox!" Demyx waved.
"Yeah, see you guys." Roxas reciprocated, somehow glad that the conversation was over. He felt a little out of place during persuasion part.
As the two boys walked away, Roxas couldn't help but ponder. What just happened back there? Did he really just converse with anyone in school except from his siblings? It appears so. He smiled, it felt good to interact with other people apart from those he knew. He hasn't talked or rather no one has talked to him for such a long time that socializing felt quite new to him.
He stopped wondering and continued walking to his next class. He kept groaning, for his abdomen kept throbbing uncontrollably. He had History next, which really wasn't bad since he grew fond of the subject. Also, the fact that he was going to be with his twin was somehow comforting.
He reached the classroom five minutes before the period started. He sat himself down on the front row and began to fix his things. As he did so, he failed to notice a bubbly brunette sit beside him.
"Hey Rox!" A voice greeted. Roxas shifted his gaze and found Sora smiling at him like an idiot.
"Hey man." He greeted back, though not as cheerfully.
Sora frowned. He couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt claw at his heart. He still felt bad about what happened yesterday. Roxas on the other hand, had already moved on. He knew that he messed up and vowed to never do it again. Just like that, the incident didn't bother him any further.
Just when Roxas bent, he felt his abdomen throb painfully. He was glad that he didn't hear a crack, maybe he didn't break any bones from Seifer's blows. Still, he hissed, which caused Sora to furrow his eyebrows.
"You okay?"
"Y-yeah, I'm fine. Don't worry about me." Roxas croaked out.
"Oh my goodness, THE Sora Helterbrand is sitting in front of me!" An annoying voice exclaimed, followed by a girlish squeal.
"Wow, he looks much more handsome than he does from afar."
"He sure is an eye candy."
"I wonder if he has a girlfriend."
"He and I should totally hook up."
"Yeah, I bet you'd make the cutest couple ever!"
The twins cringed at their tones and giggles. As much as they tried to respect everyone, they couldn't help but feel irritated over the behavior of Sora's much-despised fangirls. While the two restrained themselves from banging their heads against their desks, they failed to notice a certain fangirl make her way towards Sora.
That all changed though, as she let out a cough to catch her prey's attention. Sora averted his gaze while Roxas only stole a glance at the young girl. Sora was awkwarded-out to his bones, while Roxas was stunned at the fact that thirteen year-old girls would totally go out of their way to impress his brother.
"Uhm, excuse me, you're in my seat." The girl spat, eyeing Roxas disgustedly.
If Roxas wasn't so curious as to what Sora's reaction was going to be if he sat beside a fangirl of his for an entire period, he might've heeded Axel's words earlier and put them to the test. Also, there was this issue of his personal conduct code that he strictly abides by. If he would hit a girl, then he would be breaking that very code.
Roxas hid a smile and silently obliged. Sora's eyes were wide the whole time. He can't leave him with a fangirl! It's going to be an hour of torture! He just can't do that to him!
Sora opened his mouth to speak, but Roxas was already on the other side of the room. He cursed under his breath and turned to his seatmate. She was smiling maniacally at him. The only thing that would make him run like a little brat is if the girl started drooling all over him.
"Hey, Sora." The girl spoke seductively.
Sora shivered involuntarily, goose bumps forming across his skin. He glared at Roxas' direction before bracing himself for an hour of hell.
When the class ended, Sora was the first one out of the room. He clutched his head as he hissed. His brain turned into a live mixtape of that girl's annoying voice. He kept shaking his head, trying to rid his system of the haunting sound that etched itself in his memory forever.
For obvious reasons, the girl kept talking to him the entire period. The worst part was, the professor just stood there as if he wasn't hearing anything. He didn't even spare a glance at their direction! It was as if he was bribed by the girl, since he just allowed Sora to get mind-raped for an hour.
A few moments later, Roxas went out, a smile plastered on his face. "Enjoyed your get-together with one of your fans?"
Sora glared at him. "You're gonna pay for that, you know."
"I can't wait." Roxas taunted back.
"Man, she blabbered like she was a human machine-gun, non-stop!" Sora blinked a couple of times more to make sure the sound didn't resonate in his eardrums anymore.
"You can always shoo them off. It's not like those girls won't do anything and everything for you. They practically worship the very floor you set your feet on."
"Yeah, but that'll be rude now, won't it?"
"Fine. Suit yourself. Have fun with your fans." Roxas said with a shrug. "Hey listen, I gotta run. I'll catch you later."
"What?" Sora took a glance at the nearby wall clock. "Seriously? There's like fifteen minutes left until next period. Can't you spare at least ten minutes?"
"You know me man, I always go to class early."
"Cut yourself some slack dude. Why do you always go early anyway? It's not like going fifteen minutes before class starts is different from going five minutes before it does."
"If you're ten minutes early, then you're already ten minutes late. That's how I play it. Later." Roxas patted him on the shoulder before going ahead.
His younger twin really was something else. Sora couldn't help but marvel at his sibling's mindset. He thinks like he's much much older than he is, which no one in the family expected. Not because it was unconventional, but because of the fact that he's so young.
That was when he remembered what his grandfather told him when he was younger. He said that the loneliest people, are the kindest. The saddest people, smile the brightest. And the most damaged people, are the wisest. It was clear as to which phrase Roxas epitomized.
His thoughts were derailed when he heard a familiar voice call out to him.
"Yo, Sora!"
He lifted his gaze and smiled.
"Hey Riku!" He greeted as he high-fived the silver-haired boy in front of him.
"So how was class?" Riku started as they walked down the hall.
"Horrible."
Riku raised an eyebrow. "Really? Why so?"
Sora ran a hand through his brown mane before answering. "I got mind-raped by a fangirl."
Riku burst out laughing, which earned him a death stare from his best friend. "First week of school and girls are already on your grill. A hundred bucks says that you won't last until winter break."
The brunette scratched the back of his head in exasperation. "Why did I have to be so handsome?"
"Woah, conceited aren't we? I don't even think that you mean what the word means. You see this?" Riku said as he pointed to himself "this is handsome. That", he pointed all over his face "is appealing."
Sora's face twisted into one of wonder as he lifted his shoulders and hands. "Isn't that pretty much the same? I mean, you wouldn't be appealing if you're not handsome."
Riku wagged a finger and shook his head. "No, my friend. If you're are handsome, then you are appealing. But if you're appealing, that doesn't necessarily mean that you're handsome. Meaning being handsome means that you have the complete package. While being appealing means that you just possess a certain aspect that stands out. Like a certain type of swagger or something. I am handsome, you, are appealing. See? Words epitomized."
"And you say I'm conceited." Sora while he rolled his eyes. "Why do you even bother analyzing and differentiating such things?"
"Sora, it's about me, of course I would analyze and differentiate it. It makes me understand who I am and how unique I am." Riku explained as he rested a hand on his chest.
"Bro, I respect you and all, but if you keep talking like that, I'm gonna drop a nuclear on your face."
"By all means, try." Riku taunted back.
"Whatever man. Anyways, how's you're girlfriend?"
"I don't have one." Riku replied as he prepared to threaten his companion.
"Okay, let me rephrase that. How's Xion doing?" Sora grinned evilly as he gave Riku a nudge.
"She's fine. We're actually going on a date this Saturday."
At the mention of the word 'date', Sora perked up. Maybe he should ask Naminé out on a date too. They might be a little young, but as long as they won't do anything stupid, it should be fine, shouldn't it? Besides, teens normally go on dates during their age.
He blushed at the thought of he and Naminé dating. Who on Earth wouldn't want that? Only question is, will she agree? He cringed at the very idea of Naminé rejecting him. What she liked someone else? What if he wasn't her type? What if she hated him? What if she thought he was ugly? He suddenly grew nervous.
Riku took notice of his sudden change of behavior. "Hey, you alright?"
Sora snapped out of his thoughts and turned to Riku. "Yeah, I'm good."
"Really? You spaced out there for a second."
"No, it's nothing, really. Just...just thought of something."
"Sora's got a little crush!" Riku teased.
"Do not!"
"Out with it man! Who's the lucky lady?"
Sora sighed. It's not that he doesn't trust Riku, he's his best friend, of course he trusts him. It's just that he's not ready to tell anyone about his feelings yet. Knowing Riku though, he won't stop until he gets what he wants. He doesn't have that much of a choice.
When they reached their lockers, Sora turned to him. "Okay fine, but don't tell anyone, okay?"
"Pssh. You know me! I don't spill secrets...unless they pay me a certain amount of money."
"Riku!"
"I'm just kidding! Fine, I promise to shut up about it."
Sora felt like he was going to regret this. "I like Naminé." He mumbled.
It took a few moments for Riku to respond, and when he did, he shouted. "WOOOOHOOOO!" Everyone in the vicinity stared at him. "That's what I'm talking about!"
"Shh, shut up man!" Sora chastised, embarrassed of his behavior.
"Oops, sorry. Congrats man! You should definitely ask her out!"
"What?! I don't even know if she likes me!"
Riku stared at him incredulously. "Are. You. Freaking. Serious? How can you not see it?! The girl's been crushing on you since you were in kindergarten!"
Sora turned away and grabbed his books. "Yeah, right. If she likes me so much, she would've confessed by now."
"You're really dumb, you know that?" Riku stated as he mimicked Sora. "If you didn't notice, she's not exactly the most expressive person in the world."
Riku did have a point, but nonetheless, Sora doesn't want to take any chances. "I know, but still. I don't want to risk our-"
"Your friendship? B.S. dude. The only reason why that happens is because the people involved allow it to. A friendship won't be jeopardized if one confesses his/her feelings. It will be jeopardized if that person lets the feeling of rejection, just in-case, get to him/her. That's when he/she starts acting all wimpy, since he/she refuses to accept the bitter truth. The person'll refuse to talk to his/her friend because of bitterness. That's the only time a friendship will enter the F.U.B.A.R. phase."
Sora let everything Riku said sink in. It did make sense. Everything is in his hands on where he and Naminé will end up.
"I guess you're right."
Riku smiled proudly. "Of course I am! Now, ask her out! And like I said, she really really likes you! If you don't believe that it's obvious, try observing. Everytime she's with you, she blushes easily, she stutters, she smiles more often, she glows, she-"
"Alright, alright, alright, I get the picture."
To come think of it, for the umpeteenth time in seven minutes and thirty-two seconds, Riku was right. Naminé did act differently when she was around him. But did that mean that she liked him? It sure looks like it. She gets all stuttery and bubbly when she's with him, like Riku's said.
But it was too good to be true! He's always had a crush on Naminé since day one. He couldn't believe it. His ten-year crush has a crush on him too!
He resisted the urge to do the Peanut-Butter-Jelly-Time dance, since that would look extremely disturbing in the hallway. Although he couldn't stop himself from doing the Michael Jordan celebration when he hit the game-winner against the Cavaliers. He jumped up so high in the air and whipped his fist in joy.
Kids within his proximity gawked at him. Whispers erupted as well, all about how everyone thought that Sora lost his marbles.
When Sora landed on his feet, he still had the Chesire Cat grin stuck on his face, which made Riku slap him in the face. "Yo, take it easy. I know that you're close to the point of nirvana, but at least put your reputation to consideration."
"I don't care about my rep! All I care about is my hopefully-soon-to-be-girl!" Sora cheered excitedly.
Riku slapped his locker close and leaned his back against it. "She will be your girl. Just don't mess it up. Why not take her to the park or something? You know her, she loves to draw. Wouldn't be so bad if you let her do that while you're on a date."
Sora closed his locker then cupped his chin. "I was thinking about taking her to the movies."
"You serious? If that's what you want, why not just take her home and watch some netflix with her. It's the same thing, just cheaper. Besides, I'm sure that you guys have a subscription."
Sora was terrified of the idea, not liking the idea of taking a girl home on the first date. "Home? On the first date? Are you serious?"
"You said you wanted to take her to the movies! I'm just being practical."
"Yeah, whatever you say. How about we catch a bite, then we go to the movies. There's just something about the cinema, you know? There's a different feel in it, depending on what's being shown on the screen."
Riku just shrugged his shoulders in agreement. "You're right about that, but you should do it the other way?"
"What do you mean."
"Take her to the movies first, then dine with her."
"Why?"
"So you have something to talk about while you're eating?" Riku stated as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. "That way, you'll have more things to talk about. You don't want to awkward her out on the first date, do you?"
"Of course not!" Sora shook his head vigorously.
"Then do that."
"Thanks for the tip. How about you? Where are you taking Xion?" Sora inquired as they started to head to class.
"I dunno, she's picking this time."
"This time? This isn't your first date with her?"
"No. It's actually our second date. Our first date was about two weeks ago."
"Good for you guys then."
"Thanks. I'll be the one saying that to you and Naminé by the time you guys start dating."
Sora's cheeks reddened visibly. "I haven't even asked her out yet."
"How about lunch?"
"Seriously?"
"Yeah! I'll even help you out. Don't be such a kitty cat. I'm telling you, she likes you. The only way she's gonna say no is if she gets paralyzed."
Riku's words comforted the brunette. He'll just have to wait and see for himself. "We'll see about that."
Meanwhile, Roxas calmly made his way to his next class. He had Art up next, which didn't exactly make him jump out of his pants in excitement. Art was fun, but that's about it. He isn't really the most creative and the most talented, but he has enough in him to pass.
In the back of his mind, a sense of weariness threatened to discombobulate his tranquil mood. For some reason, he felt uneasy, still worrying about Seifer beating him up again. Though he highly doubted so, since Axel beat the hell out of one of his wingmen. Still, it was better to be safe than sorry.
As he kept walking, he suddenly felt a massive blow to his face. He fell on his butt and clutched his nose. He hissed as he breathed heavily, trying to control the pain that shot throughout his face. A second later, he heard a loud gasp and a feminine voice. Well, apart from the giggles and chuckles from the passers-by, that is.
"Oh my gosh, I am so sorry!" He shifted his gaze and saw a blonde girl kneeling beside him. Judging from her appearance, she seemed to be the same age as him, she had azure-tinted eyes that resembled the skies, an alarmingly gaunt frame and pale complexion. Worry was obviously etched into her features, with a hint of panic as well. "Are you okay? I am so so so so so sorry! The bathroom door was stuck, so I kicked it open." She explained embarrassingly.
Roxas just nodded as the pain slowly subsided. "Yeah, I'm alright. No problem, it's all good."
The girl wasn't convinced. She analyzed his features, feeling more horrible by the second. He had a red line from his forehead down to his chin. She must've kicked the door pretty freaking hard. It was as if he got hit by a huge pole in the face. She felt really bad by hurting the guy. Not only did he get hurt, but everyone laughed at him too.
"I'm really, really sorry." She reiterated as she hung her head.
Roxas' face softened. He hated it if he made anyone feel bad. So with a gentle tone, he spoke. "Hey, it's okay. I'm fine, I really am. Don't beat yourself up over it." He reassured as he stood up with her.
The girl looked unsure, but nodded. "So, I'm Naminé, by the way, Naminé Blakewood." She introduced as she held out her hand with a smile.
Roxas was hesitant. He really didn't talk to a whole lot of people apart from his family. But he felt as if it was rude to leave someone hanging, so he cordially introduced himself. "I'm Roxas, Roxas Helterbrand." He replied with a smile, shaking her hand.
Naminé was surprised, but refused to let it show. So this was Sora's twin. Now that she has gotten a good look of his face, he does look a lot like Ven. Like Sora said, his eyes have a darker shade of blue, but apart from that, he's like Ventus' carbon copy.
"Oh, so you're Sora's twin, huh?"
"Yep, that's me."
"No offense, but you look a lot more like Ven. Aren't twins supposed to look alike?" Naminé asked innocently.
"I guess I'm the living exception of that principle. Sometimes I really wish that Ven is my twin. At least he doesn't snore like Sora does."
Naminé giggled at his words. Roxas froze. That was probably one of the longest lines that he's ever said to anyone apart from his siblings. But for some reason, he didn't feel uncomfortable at all. Maybe because Naminé was one of the few people who didn't either threaten or bully him.
Looking back at it, today was a very good day for him. He's already made three acquiantances, a new record! What is up with today, seriously? Was today going to be the turning point of his life? He dampened his spirits and killed his expectations. They're no good for a person anyway.
"Tell me about it! Not only that, but he sleeps everywhere he wants to! Like what he did earlier during Chemistry period. He was so lucky that Professor Merlin didn't spot him."
Roxas frowned. He remembered the reason as to why his brother was restless. He suddenly felt guilty.
Naminé seemed to notice the frown gracing his lips. She also felt guilty about mentioning Sora's fatigue. She's afraid that she might've made him feel bad.
"Yeah, he got really tired last night. Hey, listen, I gotta get to class. I don't wanna be late, I guess I'll see you later, yeah?"
Naminé gave a smile and a nod. "Of course. I'm going to class too. Later then!"
Both nodded at each other before going separate ways. As they walked to their respective classrooms, neither realized that they were still walking beside each other. A few seconds later, both noticed and came to a stop. They slowly turned to each other, and when their eyes met, Naminé burst out laughing while Roxas giggled.
Roxas honestly thought that it would be awkward, since they both bade each other farewell then headed in the same direction. Yet he didn't feel weird at all. He even had the guts to laugh about it.
Naminé on the other hand, found the situation very amusing. She's starting to wonder why she got acquainted with him just now. She's been classmates with the Helterbrand twins since kindergarten. Maybe because he never really talked to anyone back then, even until now. But now, she knows that technically, she did know him, she just didn't talk to him. She realized that there were times when she mistook Roxas for Ventus. So that's why Ven got shorter. Not only that, but that's why she never suspected that Sora had a twin. At first, she thought that Sora and Vanitas were twins, but the latter was two years older. Turns out that it was Roxas after all.
"Where are you headed anyway?" Naminé asked first, after her laughted died down.
"Art class with Professor Rodriguez."
Naminé's eyes widened. "Really? Why didn't you say so? I'm headed there too."
"Probably because you never asked."
Naminé gasped before pouting childishly. "Don't get smart with me, mister!"
Roxas shrugged his shoulders and held up his hands defensively. "I'm just saying. If I knew that you were headed to the same room, I wouldn't have made things awkward by saying goodbye."
Naminé giggled once again. "I suppose. Shall we?" She asked as she held her hand out towards their destination.
Roxas shook his head with a small smile. "Sure."
The two entered the classroom together. Roxas was once again suprised when he found that Naminé sat beside him. As they waited for their teacher, they continued conversing with each other. Both were so engrossed in their conversation that they did not notice the weird stares that their peers were giving them the entire time.
Everyone's jaw dropped when he/she saw Roxas talking to someone. Blakewood and the fake Helterbrand, together? Since when? A lot of people assumed that they were dating, but quickly dismissed the thought. They knew that Roxas was too much of a loser to be liked by a girl.
Eventually, the teacher arrived, silencing all the students. Later, the bell rang, signalling the beginning of lunch period. Everyone got up, bade the professor goodbye and left.
"Hey," Naminé started "wanna get lunch?" She blushed at her own words. "With your siblings and the others, I mean." She cursed her self inwardly. She likes Sora, she can't like his brother, of all people. She likes Sora, not Roxas. She likes the brunette, not the blonde. So why is she blushing?
Roxas stiffened lightly. He appreciated the offer, but he still preferred to eat alone. "Uh, I don't know. I'm gonna go to the bathroom first."
"Roxas, you can't use the bathroom for a whole hour. That's just impossible, unless you're a girl."
Roxas sighed. "I'll catch up with you guys if ever."
Naminé eyed him suspiciously. "Okay then. See ya later!" She waved before walking away.
Roxas shook his head and went to the bathroom. He wasn't kidding about using the toilet at all.
When Naminé got her lunch, she surveyed the area for either Sora or her sister. On cue, he saw Sora flailing his arms wildly for her to see. She giggled and headed to his direction.
"Hey Sora, Riku." Naminé greeted.
"Hey Naminé!"
"Hiya, Nami."
"Wow, you guys are here early. Where are the others?"
"W-aw!" Sora grunted as he glared at Riku. Riku just pointed his eyebrows at Naminé's direction.
"Something wrong, you two?" Naminé asked, arching an eyebrow.
"O-oh, nothing!" Sora answered nervously. There was something fishy about the two boys, which made Naminé suspicious.
"So, how was class?" Naminé just decided to break the ice for now. She's going to squeeze out everything later!
"Good."
"It was fine."
Naminé was about to speak again, but was interrupted by Riku. "Aw man, the line's getting longer. I guess I better get my lunch. Catch you guys in a bit!" Riku excused. Before he left the table, however, he nudged Sora and smiled at Naminé.
"Something wrong between you and Riku?" Naminé asked as she stuffed some salad into her mouth.
Sora blushed, "Uh, no, not really. Erm, Nami?"
"Yeah?"
"C-can...can I ask you something?" Sora continued to stutter, which made Naminé worry.
"Sure, what is it?" She sat her fork down and looked Sora in the eye. Sora grew tense under her scrutiny. Now that he has her full attention, he can't back out from this any longer. He took a deep breath, reached for her hands and whispered.
"Look, I know that the school year just started, and this may be a little too sudden, but I..." Sora trailed, the fear of rejection consuming him.
The young blonde felt her heart race and her cheeks burn. His sudden change of demeanor and constant stuttering pretty much gave Naminé an idea as to what he was trying to say. As much as it made her want to squeal for joy, she kept her hopes down, deciding not to make her self vulnerable to the boy she so adored. She doesn't really need a heart-breaker right now.
"Yes?" She urged for him to continue.
"I.." Sora nearly passed out from the anxiety surrounding them. He never felt this nervous before when talking to a girl. "I was wondering if...if you would like to go see a movie and grab dinner with me this Saturday." Sora croaked out. He got even more nervous and anxious, for asking a girl out is one thing, waiting for her reply is another.
Naminé, on the other hand, was stunned. Did he just ask her out on a date? It sure sounds like it. Apart from that, he sure acts like he just did. She couldn't believe it. This wonderful boy that she has been crushing on since forever has finally asked her out!
"I understand if you think that it's a little too early. Besides, we're young and we-" Sora started blabbering, disappointment clearly spilling from his tone.
"Yes." Naminé answered, a huge grin uncontrollably making its way across her pink lips.
Sora immediately zipped his mouth shut. Did he just hear what he thought he heard? He turned his gaze towards Naminé, and it didn't take him long enough to find the answer to that quesiton. Her beautiful smile kept screaming yes, she did accept his invitation. Before he knew it, he was smiling like an idiot. With no regard for his virility, he scooted over and hugged Naminé tightly.
Naminé's cheeks almost exploded from blushing, but was nonetheless elated. She hugged him back and relished the feeling of being within the arms of her long-time crush. A few seconds later, both pulled away, realizing that they were indeed in the cafeteria. Luckily for them, most of the students in the area were senior-classmen, so they didn't really care that much about them.
As if fate was on their side, students from their age group started spawning out of nowhere after they pulled away from each other's embrace. It was as if fate gave Sora just enough time to accomplish his mission. Even as their friends started to approach their table, Sora and Naminé sat beside each other.
"Hey you two!" Another cheerful brunette exclaimed.
"Hey Selph! Sora greeted back, his blush dying down.
"Hey Selphie!" Naminé followed, but her blush still prominent.
"What is up with your face, Nami?" Selphie asked with a mischievous glint in her eyes. Of course the girls knew that Naminé had the biggest crush on Sora.
"N-nothing!"
"Whattup peeps!" Xion butted in as she sat her tray down beside Selphie.
Gradually, everyone from their gang arrived and sat on the table. Olette came after Xion, then Pence followed by Kairi, Ventus, Serah, Tidus, Wakka, Yuna, Rikku, Paine, Shuyin and Lenne respectively. When Tidus arrived, they had to connect another table to their current one to provide more space for the others. Since they were the popular kids, a group of students happily gave them their table. Riku was the last one back. And when he sat his tray down, he stared across his spot where Sora sat beside Naminé. "So how did it go?" He asked while suppressing a grin.
All eyes fell on Sora, which made him sweat a little. He hesitated about telling them, but did otherwise. They were his friends after all. More importantly, he was proud that he got Naminé's sweet yes. So, with his signature toothy grin, he answered. "She said yes."
Riku reached over and held out his fist, which Sora gladly bumped with his own. "That's my man!" Riku almost shouted before wiggling his eyebrows towards Naminé. She blushed from the gesture.
Everyone's eyes fell on the three freshmen. Based on Riku's grin, Sora's seemingly happy, stoned expression and Naminé's ruby-resemblant cheeks, something big just went down. They switched glances between Naminé and Sora. It took a second for it to click, and when it did, everyone smiled. Except for Selphie, who let out an ear-piercing scream, causing all the students to cringe.
"OH MY GOSH!" Selphie squealed happily. "ARE YOU TELLING ME THAT SORA JUST ASK-" the rest of her sentence was muffled by Olette's palm.
"Selph! No need to tell the entire student body about it!" Olette whispered.
"Oops, sorry." She whispered back.
"So he finally asked you out, Naminé." Xion interjected. "About dang time, Sora! You have no idea how long Naminé's been waiting for you to grow some balls!" Both Naminé and Sora blushed.
"Shut it, Xion!" Olette tried to silence her.
She just rolled her eyes at her brunette friend. "Come on, Olette. It's about Sora, everyone's gonna find out eventually. What's the point of hiding it?"
"Well yeah, that's true, but do you really want to spill the beans in the cafeteria, of all places?"
"Fine. I'll keep it down." Xion huffed.
"Guys," Sora started, catching everyone's attention "I just asked her out on a date. Stop acting like we're getting married or someting." He blushed further as he uttered the last part of the sentence.
"We're not acting like you guys are getting married, we're just happy for you, that's all." Riku explained.
"Yeah, Riku's right. It's not everyday I get to see my little brother blush like a tomato." Ven added cheekily.
They chattered away for a few minutes while finishing their meals. They finished twenty minutes before their next period, so some of them went out for a walk on the courtyard while the others headed to their respective classrooms.
Naminé, Olette, Xion, Sora and Riku spent their time walking around. As they passed by the football field, none of them noticed the pigskin that was hurled towards their direction. While laughing, Riku caught sight of it, but was too late. The ball was almost in Naminé's face. He was on her far left side, there's no way that he could save her.
"NAMINE!" He shouted as he pointed towards the ball.
Naminé turned and her eyes widened. The ball was a few inches away from touching her nose and crushing her face. She just squeezed her eyes shut and hoped that she wouldn't be severely harmed. She scrunched her face, preparing herself for the impact. A few seconds later though, she remained untouched, which made her wonder. Also, everyone around her seemed to have been frozen. She no longer heard the bickering of her friends nor the chattering of other students nearby. She couldn't even hear any footsteps for crying out loud!
She slowly opened her eyes, and came face-to-face with a tan-skinned hand that was clutching the football.
A/N: So there you have it, Chapter 4. I am terribly sorry if you guys found my NaminéXSora moments boring. It's just that writing Namora really annoys me. I am a huge huge Namixas fan, and I always get all sulky if Naminé ends up with anyone besides Roxas. I dunno! I've grown attached to Roxas and Naminé! Anyways, sorry if it's too long, and I hope you enjoyed it. Please don't forget to leave a review, it helps a lot and it gives me a general idea of what my readers want. I write for you guys anyway. Aww, sweet moment over, moving on. Thank you so much to all of you who reviewed, please keep doing so and I promise you I will keep writing! Have a good day y'all!
