A/N: First of all I apologize for the long delay for the fourth chapter! ): I have just been super busy, but I promise I have no intentions of not finishing this story! Secondly, thank you as always to all the people who have read my story and an even bigger thanks to those who have clicked on the follow and favorite buttons! The biggest thank you goes to the four readers who have reviewed my story! All of this continued support is much appreciated! (: Thank you for reading my story!

The sun began to make its way through the blinds, and eventually to Leia's face. Leia did not open her eyes, but instead listened to the bustle of the always busy hospital. She could feel the warmth of the sunlight on her face and the passing of people outside the door as she took long deep breaths. Leia felt a mixture of happiness and uneasiness; she felt as if she had participated in some scandal spending the night with Alvin, despite nothing happening other than sleeping. She couldn't help but wonder what she should say to her friends, the thought of lying to them crossed her mind, but she quickly dismissed it. Still, she felt happy to have finally completely forgiven Alvin, and even happier that she felt he finally forgave his self.

"Good morning little buddy!" Leia shouted. Even when Leia felt drowsy, she was always able to find the energy to be happy. She was hoping for a hug or something of the sorts from Alvin and so she didn't want to turn around just yet.

After a moment of silence, Leia shouted, even louder, "Hey! Good morning Alvin!"

Quickly she rolled over to find that Alvin was not in the bed. She sat up and examined the room to find he was nowhere to be seen. 'Aw he's probably just checking out or something, or maybe he went to find breakfast and just didn't want to wake me.' She tried reassuring herself but something in her heart told her to put her guard back up, to not trust Alvin's intentions. She pushed her negative thoughts to the farthest corner or her mind and made her way out of the room. As soon as she opened the door, she saw a beautiful, tall thin nurse carting around clean linens approaching.

"E-excuse me ma'am you wouldn't happen to know where Alvin is, would you?" Leia asked shyly.

"Oh you mean the charming Mister Svent? Sure, he checked out about an hour ago, that's why they sent me up here. If you came to visit him, I apologize but I don't know where he is."

It was just as she figured; he wasn't coming back for her. He had left long before she awoke. Not to mention such a beautiful woman was referring to Alvin as "charming" only made Leia feel even more upset. For a few moments she analyzed the young woman to find she was the complete opposite of herself; Tall, mature, and busty.

'This is probably the type of women Alvin likes…to think I even had a chance…'

Feelings of sadness lurked in Leia's thoughts and her heart, but as always she cast them aside, displaying a meager smile instead. It was a struggle for Leia however, because not even the sights and sounds of the hospital was enough to distract her from her thoughts. She had finally made her way to the hospital entrance when she saw everyone, including Alvin, waiting for her. Leia tried her best to hide it, but she knew her face was beet red. During her walk over here it didn't occur to her what to tell everyone about staying the night at the hospital.

"H-hi guys!" Were the only words Leia could force to leave her lips as she approached the group. Everyone turned and smiled at her, with Elize and Teepo rushing over to her and greeting her with a hug around her waist from Elize. She glanced over to see Alvin do his signature smile and wave combo.

"Good morning, Leia. I trust you slept well." Milla said mischievously as everyone giggled softly.

"Yeah I bet Alvin makes a great pillow!" Teepo shouted as he danced around her head.

'Ugh here it is! The moment I've been unprepared for! What should I say? That I actually shared a bed with Alvin? That he held me in his arms until I went to sleep? What should I say…? What should I say…?' Heat rushed to Leia's cheek as she pondered her reply.

"Well, I doubt she slept that well, that chair didn't look too comfortable to me." Alvin said with a smirk on his face.

"Oh, so she didn't sleep with you?" Jude questioned Alvin.

"Well, technically I suppose she did, seeing as how she slept at the same time I did. But we didn't sleep in the same bed I assure you." Without a second thought Alvin said this not even acknowledging Leia.

"That's not very nice of you, you know. You're supposed to let the lady sleep on the bed!" Elize scolded Alvin shyly as she played with the hems of her dress.

A knot made its way to Leia's stomach. It was twisting and turning and Leia felt sick. A shiver went up her spine, similar to the time when she started to doubt Alvin's rescue. She wanted to believe that Alvin was trying to help her dodge a bullet and that he lied to everyone with good intentions. She couldn't believe this though, because if he were looking out for her he would have at least looked at her with a reassuring smile or a wink, or anything to show he was covering for her she thought. Leia's knees began to weaken as she realized that Alvin didn't want them to know the truth. He was looking out for himself, not for her. All that time shared together must not have meant to Alvin what it meant to Leia.

"Miss Leia? Are you alright?" Rowen said as he gently touched Leia's arm, pulling her back to reality.

"Oh, I'm fine! Alvin was right I feel kinda funny from lying down the way I was in that chair." Leia forced a laugh after saying this, hoping everyone would believe her. She gave a sigh of relief as they all laughed in return, and Elize began to pull on Jude's shirt asking if they could all go outside.

After everyone told Milla and Jude their decisions to stay with them, they decided to head towards the dimensional breach. There was a long walk before them, and it felt as if today were the hottest day of all the time they had spent on this planet. The heat in combination with her sad spirit made Leia feel particularly weak as she trekked slightly behind the group, just behind Rowen and Elize. Jude and Milla led the group as always, with Alvin just behind them.

"My, my, you are full of energy today Alvin!" Rowen shouted as he increased his walking pace in attempt to keep up.

"Well, being bed-ridden for three days tends to make a person feel energized right old man?"

"Ho ho! I wouldn't know! Taking breaks isn't something I am familiar with." Rowen replied as he reached for Elize's hand to help her keep up.

'I feel like I don't even know him anymore…we had become so close over these past few days, and now he won't even bat an eye at me…How stupid can you be Leia? To think Alvin could actually like you like that…'

These thoughts were only slowing Leia down, as she was already struggling to keep up. With each step Leia took a memory returned reminding her of her walk with Alvin here after he had saved her. Every now and then her eyes would make contact with a certain shrub or rock and a conversation between them would replay in her mind. She closed her eyes every time this happened, trying her best to never allow her true disposition to make its way to her face. Every now and then someone would notice her falling behind and question if she was all right. She'd always smile and reply with, "Yeah I'm just tired!" or, "You guys walk way too fast!" She observed everyone as they fought and conversed. Everyone was acting normal, but it was hard for her to make Alvin's actions out. She was beginning to doubt there was another side to him, that being charming and tough was who he really was. Doubt clouded her mind as she started to think that she had fought for a lost cause and that maybe all this time Alvin was and had always been a tough mercenary and there was nothing she could do to soften his heart or ease his pain. Her only hope was to see that smile that had made its way to Alvin's face when they hugged that day as she continuously searched for it, but still it seemed all she could find was his usual smirk he always gave.

'Maybe it was my imagination? What if he wasn't even smiling any different? I could be searching for something that doesn't even exist and I wouldn't even know…Look at how happy everyone is though Leia! You have to stop acting so sad and just forget everything that happened between you and Alvin! If he acts like it meant nothing, then maybe it didn't and you just have to accept that!'

Leia was finally beginning to push aside her feelings and thoughts when they approached the dimensional breach. It was then that everything she had tried to set aside tore down the walls of her heart and memories flooded her mind. Flashbacks of the time she spent with Alvin poured in, and no matter how much she tried she could not hold them back this time. Tears began to form in the corners of her eyes and her knees gave out, causing her to slump on the hard ground.

"I-it's so hot! Does anybody have some water?" Leia shouted, desperately trying to hide what really happened.

Everyone rushed over as Jude handed Leia a container of water and examined her while she drank it.

"Leia, are your old wounds acting up again? Will you be okay to go on?" Jude worriedly asked.

"Yeah I just needed some water, that's all! Boy is it hot as heck today!" She replied while nervously scratching the back of her head.

He squinted his eyes for a moment and examined her more closely before saying, "Yeah, your head feels kind of warm. You're probably just suffering from the heat. Don't worry though, we're almost there."

Jude smiled and extended his hand as she grabbed it and he helped her up. As their hands clasped together for a brief moment, Leia was reminded of why she liked him so much. Even though she knew he would never return her feelings, his sincere friendship was always enough for her. She softly muttered a "thank you" as they all continued to the dimensional breach.

Just as they stood before the entrance to the spinning black hole, Alvin stopped.

He put a smile on his face and said, "Let's not go rushing in just yet. We better make sure to take care of business first."

"No way let's jump in!" Leia shouted as her and Elize readied for a race.

"No Alvin is right, we must be sure we have nothing on our minds before the final battle." Milla said confidently.

"Yeah well, I had a request to make…" Alvin said almost whispering, then continuing a bit louder, "I was wondering if we could make a pit stop in Xian Du."

Leia softly placed her hand on his back saying, "Of course we can Alvin. You deserve to make peace with all that."

After all the emotional turmoil Alvin had put her through, she wanted to stop caring, to stop being there for him. But as her eyes peered into his, she felt as if she could see into his soul once more. Even though Alvin wore a brave face, Leia could see the sorrow he was trying so hard to hide. As her hand touched his back she could feel her heart pound. Leia was confused, but decided that in time Alvin would talk to her when he was ready, and she would wait for that time to come.

"Thanks guys, seriously." Alvin said as he smiled at Leia.

Days passed by as they made their way to Xian Du. During that time Leia and Alvin didn't speak much. There was of course the typical, "How are you?" and such small talk, but Alvin avoided any type of long or deep conversations with Leia. He reverted to the typical Alvin, like the one she had known when they first met. However that wasn't what Leia wanted; something within her desired more. They had crossed the dimensional breach to Milla's shrine, where they made their way to Nia Khera.

After resting in Nia Khera they continued towards Xian Du. They were less than half a day away from Xian Du now as they made camp in the Xagut Floodmeadow. It was late in the evening when Leia decided to leave the tent that she, Milla, Elize, and Teepo shared. It was surprisingly nice outside, the ground was wet and muddy, but the skies were clear and the stars lit the night sky. Leia decided she needed to blow off some steam in order to fall asleep, and so she walked a small distance away from the camp in order to train with her staff.

'It's been two days already…and still it's as if Alvin has no intention of talking to me about what happened. I just want to know what's on that man's mind! I should be used to being stuck as the girl who's JUST a friend after my life-long crush on Jude. But this time, it's different! Because deep down, I knew Jude never liked me back. He never made any hints whatsoever! But…back in the hospital, I actually felt like maybe…maybe Alvin…'

Leia's thoughts were quickly interrupted as she heard footsteps approaching from behind her. Thinking it was a monster she could use for practice; she quickly swung her body around with her staff in both hands and screamed, "Hyaaa!"

Only what she found was not who she expected it to be.

"R-Rowen!? Oh my gosh what are you doing sneaking up on a girl like that!? I almost hit you! I'm so sorry!"

Despite almost getting smacked by Leia's staff, Rowen simple chuckled and gave a small bow before apologizing.

"I am terribly sorry Miss Leia. It's just I overheard you leaving camp and the thought of you going off all alone so late caused me to worry."

"No, I'm the one who should be sorry for making you worry. I'm alright though Rowen, I just can't sleep, that's all." Leia turned her back on the old man hoping he wouldn't be able to sense what was really on her mind.

"Ah I see. And so hitting old men with staffs is what helps you sleep at night I presume?" Rowen replied with a wink.

"Eh...you weren't exactly the target practice I was hoping for!" She turned her head towards him and scratched the back of her neck in embarrassment.

"If you don't mind me asking young miss, is there something on your mind? You have been wondering away from camp these past two nights. If I am not mistaken your sleeplessness is the result of your mind weighing heavy with thought."

"Guess there's no fooling you huh?" Leia responded, almost inaudibly.

Leia found a small boulder nearby and sat on it. She wasn't even sure where to start. How do you explain the unexplainable? She was sure the others were aware of her and Alvin's…whatever you could call it, but no one had dared to bring it up, which was something she was somewhat glad about. Her eyes darted around at various objects; however Rowen's were fixed upon her in dead seriousness. It was clear to Leia that he was not going to allow her to leave until she had rid herself of what was on her mind. Leia closed her eyes and took several deep breaths before she finally opened her eyes and allowed them to meet Rowen's.

"Well…how do I start? I'm sure it's no surprise to you, but me and Alvin, well we…"

Rowen wore a huge smile on his face and one of his eyebrows was raised in curiosity. He had one hand stroking his beard and the other rested on his hip.

"S-stop looking at me like that! It's not what you think I promise!" Leia said more loudly than she had wanted, and hoping she didn't wake anyone, placed both her hands over her mouth with her eyes wide open in horror. After a few moments she slowly removed her hands and gave an embarrassed giggle.

"So you do not like Jude anymore I take it?" Rowen said with a confused look on his face.

"Well, I do still have feelings for Jude, and who knows maybe I always will? But he's in love with Milla, and I respect that and want him to be happy! And when I'm with Alvin, I tend to forget about my feelings for Jude, as bad as that sounds...I think I'm slowly realizing that I can't keep chasing Jude forever, I can't find true love if I never give anyone else a chance. Right Rowen?"

"Ah that is quite a wise statement from a woman as young as yourself. I am curious as to what you see in Alvin however. I cannot say I completely trust him yet."

"You see…I kind of have developed feelings for Alvin lately. This is crazy I know because he's the complete opposite of Jude, but there's something about him I can't get over. Jude is kind, honest, and safe. Alvin is funny, charming… and completely unpredictable. I think it's that last part that gets me. Whenever I'm with him we just have so much fun, and over the past week I feel like I have really gotten to know him, like, another side of him. A more gentle and vulnerable side. I believe he finally forgave himself for what happened between us, and I felt like he opened up, even just a little bit, to me…but after I stayed the night he's just become...distant. Nothing happened other than sleeping, and I have no clue what I did wrong but…I miss it. Even if it turns out he doesn't feel the same way, I just want to know what's going on, you know?" After stating this Leia placed her elbows on her knees and rested her head in her hands.

Rowen, deep in thought, made his way over and leaned against the boulder beside Leia. He continued to stroke his beard with his eyes fixed upon the ground.

"Well, if there is one thing my old age is good for; it is most certainly for giving advice!" He finally said with a smile on his face. He turned his head to Leia, and continued, "In my experience, my biggest regret was never being able to tell Carrie everything that was on my mind before she had passed away. I had so much I had wanted to say and do, things I never did because I never thought the time was right. Now, twenty years have passed and these thoughts still weigh heavily on my heart. I think… you should talk to Alvin, and tell him everything that you feel. I have noticed the sad glances he casts towards you when you are not looking, and whether he cares to admit it or not, he needs somebody in his life to look after him. While the time may never feel right to tell him, you never know how much time you have with someone."

Tears began to form in the corners of Leia's eyes as she softly hugged Rowen.

"Thanks Rowen, you always know exactly what to say." She softly said, feeling as though she knew exactly what needed to be done.

"It was my pleasure young miss. Now please, try to get some rest."

Leia nodded her head in agreement as they both made their way back to camp.

'I don't want to end up like Rowen, full of regret because I'm too scared to tell him how I really feel…maybe…there isn't a right time, but that's not going to stop me!'

"Hey everyone, I decided to take care of my problems from here. I'll meet up with you guys in Xian Du tomorrow after I take care of business. Don't worry about me, okay? Sincerely, Alvin"

"Eh sounds like a good enough note to me." Alvin muttered to himself as he signed the bottom of the paper, and placed it on top of the small box of supplies outside the tents and secured it with a small rock.

After the night had long settled in, Alvin too, left the camp. He began to walk to Xian Du alone, hoping not to wake anybody. It was a few hours before dawn, and Alvin knew he had to make haste in order to make it to Xian Du before everyone else left. He wasn't going to leave for good; he just felt that he needed to handle what was to come next, alone. Alvin had always dealt with his problems his way, and always by himself.

'I wonder what I should do about mom…twenty years I've been here and all I ever wanted was to take her back home. I finally made it back home, and damn it all I couldn't even bring her there before she passed away! I know everyone is going to be upset with me for going all lone wolf, but I left a note so that's good right? Right…'

Alvin was so deep in thought and concentrated on making it to his destination, that he didn't even notice who was trailing behind him.

"Big Fat Liar just where do you think you're going!? Huh!?"

Alvin didn't need to turn around to know whose voice rattled his brain just now.

"Teepo, Elize, turn around I've got to deal with grown up problems, okay? I promise I'll find you guys when you make it to Xian Du." Alvin shouted as he turned his head to find Teepo flying surprisingly fast with Elize holding on tightly as they approached Alvin. What woke them up, Alvin had no idea, but they must have hurried to find him, because he was already several miles from the camp. Alvin rubbed his temples in annoyance as he realized they had no intentions of turning around.

"Alright, what gives kid? You read my note and missed me so much you had to go running off to find me?" Alvin tried his best to not sound irritated, but he knew his face did not hide this as well as his voice tried.

"Alvin, you have no reason to go run away like you used to, you have friends now!" Elize said angrily as she leaned forward a bit and placed both her hands on her hips. Teepo said nothing for once, but his face was also angry. Alvin shook his head and shrugged his shoulders.

"I'm sorry Elize, but this is an Alvin problem that Alvin has to deal with."

"Hey! Don't talk to us like we're kids!" Teepo roared as Elize dug her foot in the mud and placed her arms behind her back. Alvin gave the duo a smirk and folded his arms across his chest.

"Alvin, Leia told Teepo and I that you changed…Leaving on your own isn't any different than what you used to do. If there's something wrong, you can talk to us, okay?"

"I'm fine Elize, now go back to the-"

"No! We're not leaving unless you come back with us!" Elize too, crossed her arms and Teepo hovered next to her head.

"Look, what Leia told you guys isn't true. I'm a big fat liar and I always will be." He began to turn around when Elize grabbed his hand.

"We believe Leia, we don't believe you though!" Teepo shouted as both he and Elize wore wide grins.

Alvin couldn't help but smile in return. He heaved a sigh and said, "Elize, what do you do when you know somebody is better off without you, but you don't want to be alone?"

"Well, I guess I would just do whatever makes me happy."

"It's that simple huh?" Alvin said as he rubbed his neck. Elize nodded and smiled as she was now holding Teepo.

"Well, we know you don't want to be alone Alvin, and that you think we're all better off without you, but we're all friends, and everyone cares about you, even if your a big fat liar." Elize chirped happily.

"Yeah we're super pals!" Teepo added.

"Heh, I'm not sure you understood exactly what I meant, but thanks Elize, and you too doll." Alvin chuckled to himself while saying this. Elize opened her mouth wide with surprise. She then had a confused look on her face as she thought about what Alvin said. As she was lost in thought Alvin began to make his way towards the camp.

"Alvin, wait! Were you talking about Leia?" She called out to him as she jogged to catch up.

"Wouldn't you like to know?" He softly said to himself as he stopped and allowed Elize and Teepo to catch up to him. He threw his hands behind his head, closed his eyes, and inhaled deeply.

'Maybe Elize is right, maybe it's time I do something that makes me happy.'

A/N: For the record I am aware that the dialogue when they are at the dimensional breach is not verbatim, I just based it off of what happened in the game so it is altered a bit. I'll try to get to the next chapter as soon as I can, I already have an idea of how I want it to go, it's just a matter of finding time to sort it out and finish it. Thanks again for reading! (: