Chapter Six: Lies Are Stacking Up On Both Sides

"Dammit," Rachel muttered to herself with obvious annoyance. There was only so much silence one could keep in the presence of a dear friend so mentally drained, and Kori was just that. On any normal occasion, Rachel would applaud Kori's ability to remain without words for the usual minimal five minutes at a time, a rather great and strenuous feat, but this was different. Something was going on beneath that tangled mess of crimson curls. "You're really going to make me ask, aren't you?"

Kori, slouched in her seat within the silent library across from Rachel, pulled her distracted mind awake and looked to her confused. "Ask me what?"

Rachel rolled her eyes. "You've been acting strange all day."

"I'm hungover." Kori lied. Which, was basically only a partial lie. Her head had been pounding since she awoke to find herself alone, Richard gone, and her stomach queasy from the night before; everything feeling a bit on the hazy side. "Besides, we're in the library, silence is expected." She lowered her voice as a fellow student sitting a close distance to them, eyed her angrily. "... and surely enforced."

"To some degree, but we haven't been here all day." Violet eyes narrowed persistently. There was no way she would allow Kori to avoid the truth any longer. This odd behavior of hers had knowingly two options in origin; something had gone wrong with either Richard or Xavier. "What happened after you left last night? You were fine the last time I saw you."

Kori's hesitant gaze lingered down at her spiraled notebook before her, and she sighed. "That's just it... I don't know."

Enough with the vague responses. "I'm confused."

"That makes two of us."

Rachel's brow curved. This was beginning to make sense now. However, this whole back and forth thing Richard and Kori were doing where one minute they're the best of friends and the next they're at odds... it was giving Rachel whiplash.

"I take it Dick is being distant with you again?" This caught Kori's attention and left Rachel to roll her eyes. "You two seemed fine when you left together, and I thought he had class all morning? What could have gone wrong since then?"

Kori gave a light shrug. To be honest there wasn't any solid foundation to draw attention to that Richard had physically done, merely this ongoing pit in her stomach that suggested he seemed off. "I guess. Its not as though he... I don't know. I just have this weird feeling that something's bothering him. I woke up and he was gone. He didn't even say goodbye like he normally would. When I saw him again, well... you were there, he was looking at me strangely."

"He just looked tired to me. Almost like you had kept him out all night," Rachel cracked a smile, sarcasm coating her voice in an attempt to cheer Kori up. "Oh wait... you did." She felt small relief as Kori gave off a halfhearted laugh. Looks like its time for yet another shot of reality. "Look, Dick is... he's always upset about something, so don't get all bent out of shape every time Mr. Antisocial isn't being his tense self." She smiled once more, nudging Kori's foot from beneath the table that separated them. "Keep your mind focused on other things. How's Xavier been?"

Kori seemed to brighten at the thought of her boyfriend, her posture loosening a bit. "He's good. I'm suppose to see him tonight."

"Suppose to? Why does it sound like you plan on canceling with him?"

Don't do this Kori. Rachel of all people knew how quickly Kori lost track of reality when Richard was swarming her thoughts. Xavier did not need more space, things were good with them and Rachel was determined to remind her of that.

"X wanted to take me to dinner but with this whole thing with Richard, I've been reconsidering going."

"Nope." Rachel stopped her with a set of determined eyes, causing Kori to inhale deeply, mind wavering. "You've canceled on X enough."

"But I'm not going to be able to enjoy myself knowing Richard is-"

"Nope." Rachel restated, slightly louder this time, earning a few glares from nearby peers trying to focus on their work.

"It's not like I want to cancel. I just... I can't figure out what Richard-"

"I'll say this one last time. After that, I completely give up." She stood, gathering a stack of her own books and giving Kori a glare of her own. "You can't cancel on X. He doesn't deserve that, nor would he appreciate yet another chance for you to remind him that he currently ranks second in your life next to Dick."

Ouch, when she puts the situation in perspective that way it suddenly seemed awful to even consider skipping out on Xavier again.

"You're right. Besides," She stood, joining Rachel as they made their way out of library. "I have to tell him about this weekend." She sighed, never having felt more frustrated with Richard at this point. "As it is I'm not even sure Richard still wants to go. Ugh, I hate that I can't read him the way I use to."

"Wait,... go? Go where?"

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"I still think you're making a big deal out of nothing." Vic repeated through crunching chews, his right hand stuffed into a bag of chips.

Richard sat near Vic, a seat separating them on the couch within Richard's living room. Kicking his feet up against the coffee table, attention focused on the television across them, he shook his head. "It just came out of nowhere."

"So?" Vic laughed, "She was drunk. If you had been, there's no telling what could have happened."

Richards brow raised in immediate anger and he snapped his head to look at Vic. "What is that suppose to mean? You really think I would ever..." His mouth suddenly became dry, feeling rather disgusted with Vic's words. Yet at the same time, there was a small part of him that remembered the spark that rushed him when Kori had stolen that kiss in the middle of the night. Nope, stay focused on the insane accusations Vic was getting at. "I would... I would never... Drunk or not, I would never take advantage of Kori that way. I... she's my best friend."

"That's recently become more and more debatable."

That brow of Richards was quivering in bit back rage, his teeth grinding now. This was precisely the reason Richard was constantly aggravated with all of his friends being involved in everything that went on between himself and Kori. If they knew either of them as well as they believed, they would realize that Kori and Richard, while close, still shared many instances of clashing personalities. But, in the end, they would always make up so there was, in Richards opinion, no need for anyone to add their two cents.

"You don't know what you're talking about. Kori and I are fine." Why couldn't anyone understand that?

Vic laughed, feeling rather surprised at himself for remaining so strong in his attitude toward Richard. Normally he would never speak so bluntly toward him but he simply couldn't watch these two friends of his ruin each others friendship over obvious unspoken affection; even if it was one sided and surely momentary.

"Then what the hell are you doing sitting on the couch and watching television with me?" Richard seemed thrown off by that question but as he glanced around the room he knew it was a reasonable one to state. Damn, only Kori had a way of getting him so lost in his own mind that he couldn't' realize any abnormal behavior he was currently sporting."Why aren't you off with your pretty little red head instead of sitting here only to get into an emotional and insecure conversation with me about her?" There was no response, so Vic pressed further. "Look man, she kissed you, who cares. I guarantee it was a drunken mistake. You're over analyzing... yet again." Vic sighed, this situation becoming too overwhelming for him to even stomach. He returned to his previous laid back position on the couch and sighed to himself. "If you ask me, I think you just need to get laid. For someone who's normally out every night, you'd think after an entire week without a little late night fun, you might be due for some."

Dick exhaled curtly. Had he really been so preoccupied with Kori that he had gone that long without...

"That's not true," He stated rather defensively. For some reason his ego and reputation seemed to be at stake, and those were two priorities he always took seriously. "I had that one chick here a few nights ago."

Vic rolled his eyes, any interest in Richard's issues dwindling quickly now. "Not since Kori's been here." He gave one last glance over to Dick and wiggled his brows suggestively. "Perhaps you should do something about that. It might loosen you up a bit."

Richard hesitated, maybe he was right. Wait, what was he thinking? Of course Vic was right! He just needed a night out, that's all. He just needed a little release. Alright, that's easy to make happen, especially when you're Dick Grayson.

With a new-found smile, Richard stood. "Good call. Call Gar."

Vic gave an excited cheer, never willing to turn down a night out. "We going out?"

Hesitating before his bedroom door, Richard looked back to Vic with a laugh. "You know it." He paused, cringing slightly. "Just... don't bring Karen, or Terra, or..."

"No girls, got it."

"I just don't want Kori to wind up with an invitation to this outing. I wouldn't be able to enjoy myself."

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"Are you sure you don't want to stop by? Even for a little bit?" Kori asked, eager for Rachel to follow her back to the dorm.

In truth, she wanted more than anything to avoid Richard, especially if he was acting the way he was. Not to mention the reality that if she did run into him back home that she would have to find a way to sneak out to meet Xavier for their dinner. The alternative, should Rachel not join her would mean she would have to result to another lie. Lies, which were piling up on her at such an excessive rate that her body physically ached in guilt all day long.

Rachel came to a pause, her feet setting comfortably on the sectioned off grass where the paved walkway came to an end beneath a large tree. "Sorry Kor..." She lowered herself into a seated position, leaning her back against the trunk of the tree, eyes fixated on a fresh book within her lap. "Looks like you're just going to have to face Dick alone." As Kori's shoulders hung heavy in disappointment, Rachel allowed a teasing laugh to escape her. "Eventually you're going to get caught using me as an excuse to cover up your lying." She was right, and Rachel saw the clarity in Kori's eyes as she looked up at her. "Dick's not an idiot. You've managed to keep him distracted up until this point but to be honest I'm surprised he hasn't figured it out yet."

Kori swallowed hard. It wasn't that she didn't agree with Rachel, because in fact she was absolutely right. No, it was that hearing the truth out loud only made her guilt all the more real. "I'll call you later, Rae."

Rachel sighed to herself, shaking her head in disappointment at the receding figure of Kori. She had never been one to lie or stoop so low as to sneak around so the fact that Richard had made her feel as though she needed to, only frustrated Rachel. She may not have been Dick's number one fan, but she was beginning to feel pity for both parties now; Dick and Xavier.

She sat alone for a decent ten minutes before a familiar voice called out to her. And not the 'oh I'm happy to see you', familiar but rather that of the 'please, I hope they don't notice me' familiar. Even as the voice sought her out, gaining approach, did Rachel keep her eyes focused down at her book. That is until a pair of torn up sneakers came to a stop before her.

"I thought that was you. Didn't you hear me calling your name?"

Her eyes shut long enough for her to inhale a deep breath, one meant to center herself, and then she looked up to the voice, a grinning Gar staring down at her. Aside from the cheesy grin that seemed to irritate her, his attire made her do a double take. He was all dressed up, a pair of nice black slacks and a deep purple dress up shirt. "Going somewhere?"

His defined brows burrowed in confusion, only picking up on Rachel's meaning as she motioned to his clothing. "Oh, right... yea. Us guys are going out tonight." He laughed, "That's why I have this."

Rachel forced a closed mouthed smile as he raised one shoulder, a case of beer tucked beneath his arm. "Awesome."

Gar hesitated. Her hardly noticeable smile made him think she was in a decent mood, but the lack of emotion or enthusiasm in her voice had always thrown him off. "So... Yea I'd invite you but... Dick doesn't want any girls slowing us down for when we go to the club."

"Club? What club could anyone our age gain access to?"

Rachel fought the urge to roll her eyes as Gar puffed his chest out, his smile widening. "Well, when you're friends with Dick Grayson, stuff like that isn't really an issue."

"Right." She looked back down at her book waiting for him to take his leave, but he didn't. He simply stood there, trying his best to come off as arrogant as Richard normally would. The only issue being, Garfield Logan, in her opinion, was incapable of such. He was too much of a stumbling mess. With this realization, Rachel found her own smirk surfacing; this kid needed to be knocked down a peg. "Nice shoes."

"Uh..." He released a choppy chuckle, his free hand scratching at his mess of hair, begging for an interruption to save him from his lack of clear thought. "Well, I guess you could say I'm going with the Shawshank theory."

"Which is?"

Gar smiled, happy he had thrown her off. "Who's really going to be looking at my shoes?"

Rachel laughed, putting said laugh to a halt once she realized the widened smile on Gar's face. Clearing her throat she said. "That theory lasted about five seconds. Are you forgetting that I noticed them? Rather quickly I might add."

He shrugged. "I think I'll be alright. As it is, tonight isn't really about me. Its about Dick finally getting out of the weird funk he's been in." Rachel was about to agree when Gar's next words shocked her. "The latest drama is the kiss that happened, supposedly last night that has him freaking out."

"Kiss?" Since when is Richard squeamish about a kiss? It wasn't as though he hadn't had his share of them.

Gar's eyes widened, his expression displaying clearly that he was supposed to have kept his mouth shut about that little detail. As it were, Vic wasn't suppose to mention it to Gar on the basis that he couldn't keep a secret, and here we are... case and point. "Uh... with Kori."

"What?!" Rachel was on her feet in seconds, eyes blazing up at a now frightened Gar.

"You can't say anything alright? Promise me you wont say anything." He shook his head, a hand to the bridge of his nose as he cursed at himself. "Dammit, I wasn't suppose to say anything. Hell, I'm not even suppose to know."

"Who told you this?" Patience was lacking further as Gar hesitated to respond to her question and she gripped the front of his collar and pulled him toward her; a very dangerous look in her eyes. "Who?"

"Vic." He squeaked.

"When was this?"

"Last night."

She remained silent for a moment, her mind racing for a solution to this. Finally, she released her grip on him and shoved him back slightly. "Wait a minute, who cares? Why would Dick be so upset about an innocent kiss? They kiss all the time."

"This wasn't like the others."

"How so?"

"Look, Rae, I'm going to be honest with you..." He held a hand out at his side and took a single step back. "You're kinda freaking me out and, don't kill me, but I don't exactly have all the details. I haven't even seen Dick since last night so... sorry. All I know is that Kori kissed him and that he's acting all weird about it."

"Kori kissed who?"

Rachel's entire body froze in place. That voice, she knew, belonged to the one person she could have wished would never hear about this 'kiss', incriminating or not, unless it was coming directly from Kori herself. Swallowing hard, Rachel turned to find Xavier, eyeing her wearily. Had someone seen him kissing Kori? Were they caught? Is that what this was?

"Hey, X." She replied, swallowing fear down with a subtle gulp. She needed more answers before a serious mess of miscommunication was to arise.

"X?" Gar mimicked to himself. "Is that the guy who has Dick in a fit? Kori's friend from Gotham?"

"Yes, now be quiet." Rachel said with a growl in warning. Forcing a smile at Xavier she shrugged innocently. "Are you just getting out of class?"

He rubbed at his tired eyes. "Yea I have to go get ready for-"

"Well, we don't want to bug you." Rachel said quickly, cutting Xavier off when she widened her eyes at him.

Damn Kori and damn Xavier, hell, damn Richard for that matter for placing Rachel in this position. She wasn't apart of any of the lies swarming these three and right now, she was having to keep secrets for each side it seemed. Sure, she didn't have to per say, but come on, Xavier was about to make reference to his date with Kori and if Gar caught wind of that there was no way Richard wouldn't be filled in within the next hour. Holy shit this was too much drama for her to handle. Wasn't the petty drama suppose to end in high school?

"I'll give you the details about Kori later." Now, whether Xavier knew Rachel as well as he believed, or not, there was no way he couldn't decipher the nerves exuding her as she released a guilty laugh. "See you around."

It was now that Xavier and Gar were left awkwardly alone that he acknowledged him, extending a hand out to Gar. "Hey man, I'm Xavier. Kori's... friend."

"Call me Gar."

"It was nice meeting you. I should let you get back to..." He paused noticing the case of beer within Gar's grasp and he smiled. "What ever it is you were about to do."

With a shrug, Gar smiled, "I'll see you around." He hesitated, stopping Xavier out of guilt and called out to him. "If you aren't doing anything you can totally come with us if you want. I don't think Dick will mind."

How amusing. "I think he will. Trust me, I'm no fool to the reality that the guy can't stand me."

The two laughed, Gar feeling slightly bad for the guy. It was never a pleasant thing to be hated by anyone, but a celebrity like Dick Grayson? … that's gotta be difficult. Clearing his throat, he took a single step back. "Well, just let us know if you change your mind. Kori's got our number."

"Thanks, man. I appreciate the offer, but I think I'll stay in tonight."

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No matter what Rachel had said, Kori was still struggling with the evenings plans. Sure, of course she wanted to join Xavier for dinner but now that she was only a few feet from home, she couldn't shake the anxiety she felt in regards to Richard.

"Heyyyy!"

Kori jumped at the overly enthusiastic greeting delivered from Vic as she stepped past the threshold of the dorm room. He had appeared near the entrance with a quick race from the kitchen, his excitement slightly dulled when he realized it was not who he expected to be arriving.

"Vic," Kori smiled, her eyes curiously scanning the living room behind his muscular build. "I didn't realize you would be here." The two walked side by side, the mannerisms encompassing Vic instantly leading Kori to assume there was a stash of alcohol just around the corner. Still, where was Richard? "What are you all up to?"

Vic slung an arm around her and sighed dreamily. "We're pregaming it."

Her head tilted to the side curiously and she stated her question slowly, mirroring her confusion. "Pregaming?"

Vic laughed, shaking his head at Kori before he slammed himself down upon one of the couches. "We're going out tonight." He paused, lifting a half-full bottle of beer to his lips. "We started drinking early. I thought you were Gar. He's suppose to be here with another few rounds of beer." He motioned to the kitchen. "You want one?"

Kori shook her head, still concerned with Richard's whereabouts, but she would be lying if she wasn't relieved he had plans for the evening. This only ensured that she could keep her date with Xavier without fear of being caught. "No, I'm alright. Umm,... do you know where Richard is?"

Vic hesitated, his lagged mind recalling the previous anxiety Richard had in regards to Kori. As he stared back at her, he couldn't help but notice the same nerves in her. "Yea uh... he's getting ready still."

With that Kori cautiously approached his bedroom door, only to jump once more as it swished open, Richard surfacing, almost running straight into her. At first glance she could tell he had been partaking in drinking as well, which was unexpected since she had been under the impression he was calling it quits for a little while, not that she was judging.

"Kori." He said in shock, both hands steadying at her shoulders as he brought himself to a quick halt to stop himself from running her over at the quick pace he had started with. He eyed her quickly, mind too eager to be free of her presence. "What are you doing here?"

Kori hesitated, her mind still taking in his appearance. He always looked good, handsome that is, but for some reason, right now, he came off to her as...

"Wow." Was all she managed to utter, her head shaking slightly as she tried to laugh off her hesitation and inability to speak clearly. "You uh..." She laughed, eyes shutting for a moment, trying to clear her thoughts. "You look..." He looked drop dead sexy; everything one would expect from Dick Grayson. At least those were the official words flashing in her mind, not that she would truly say them out loud, and was thoroughly surprised of the uproar in strength of an undefined spark within her nerves. She found herself intrigued with what cologne was he wearing? Hmm, it was far more than pleasing to the senses and definitely not his usual scent. Alright, lets get this wandering mind back on track. She inhaled deeply, a hand to her forehead and she released a nervous laugh. "You look very... handsome."

Ignoring the suggestive smirk being relayed to him from behind Kori where Vic remained, Richard masked his discomfort with a laugh. "Thanks." There was a moment now, where neither of them spoke, just stared back at one another. The stress encompassing this instant was chipping at Richard's enthusiasm for this night out with the guys, and he had come to convince himself that he truly needed a night out, so this emotional tension would have to end. Clearing his throat, a shift in his feet coupled with an avoidance of her gaze, Richard sent a quick peck of a kiss to the side of her head. "Don't wait up."

His words were cold and to the point, yet, even as he moved past her, Kori would not allow his stand-offish behavior to confuse her any further. "Richard.." His feet came to a stop just before the short hallway which led to the exit, and as he hesitated to turn Kori could have sworn she saw a rather fearful expression invade Vic but he had turned and left before she could be sure. If she had to guess, it seemed rather clear now that Richard had obviously revealed the unknown reason behind his strange behavior toward her to Vic. That wasn't a very comforting feeling to exist in. What happened to Richard telling her everything? Going to her with his problems? Rolling her eyes and giving her all to ignore the awkward tension within the room now, she called to him once more. "I wanted to ask you about something."

"I'm kind of on my way out."

Kori's eyes hardened, and she moved to him, forcing him to look at her. "What is with you? What have I done to upset you? I... I realize you have plans tonight, that's fine, I just need to know about this weekend."

"What about it?" He asked casually, as if no plans had been previously arranged. As if he hadn't practically begged her to accept his offer to spend the weekend away with him.

With a hand to her hip and a curt exhale relaying her mood back to him, him still avoiding her as he busied himself with putting his jacket on, she said, "Forget it. I've made other plans anyway."

Well, if she wanted his full attention, then congratulations because she just got it, and in a big way. Richard's left foot, eager to inch toward the exit had suddenly redirected its path, bringing him to face her. In reality, the mere possibility of Kori having her own plans, ones that didn't involve him, would always be met with intense jealousy. His eyes narrowed in suspicion and he graced her with a less then pleased rise in voice.

"What makes you think I don't plan on still taking you to the beach house?"

"Oh, I don't know," She began, ever so sarcastic. "I thought after last night that we were fine but now here you are being your usual asshole self and I can't even figure out what the hell I did wrong."

His brow arched. Maybe she didn't remember the kiss. In that case... well, what does that mean? It still doesn't erase the fact that it happened, nor did it aid in the solution as to why it occurred in the first place. Or why he was currently letting it bother him so.

"Can we talk about this tomorrow?" He asked, a hand rubbing at the back of his neck.

She inhaled deeply, trying to calm her frustration with him and never feeling struck with more impatience toward him. "Go on. I know how important tonight must be for you."

What does that mean?

"Hang on," He sighed, gently taking her by the arm and returning her sight to his. "If there was something important you needed I would cancel my night with guys without any hesitation. But, if this is simply about our weekend together then I think it can wait, that's all I'm saying."

Kori nodded, she knew better then to put him in a position to where he felt as though he had to choose between her and his late night needs. When they were in high school she had promised herself that she would never come between him and the random women that entertained him based on the premise that she was absolutely convinced, scared even, that he would then push her away. Afterall, that's the lone reason he ever stuck around and kept so close to her right? Because she was jut one of the guys? Easy to get along with, yet emotional enough to be there when he was having a crisis?

They were best friends because while there were usually no limitations or rules within their friendship, there were definitely rules she had set for herself to ensure that he wouldn't feel the need to flee because she became too clingy. Still, for once, just once, she had always wished he would choose her over them. Which, she knew was impossible and perfectly understandable, its not as though she was the most interesting person in the world. How could her companionship compare to a chance to satisfy those pesky urges he seemed to have on a constant loop?

Still, he stared down at her, in what she was picking up on as conflicted. Those pale eyes would flicker back and forth between stubbornness and control over this situation to a seemingly saddened gleam to which she was entirely thrown off by and unsure how to approach.

"I know." She gave a weak smile. "Its fine. Yea, we can talk tomorrow. Enjoy your night." She was suddenly nervous again, and the sensation only worsened at the constant eye contact he was bestowing upon her. It didn't help matters that she had caught herself overlooking his appearance once again, finding herself drawn into his presence with an unnatural urge to be near him. Shaking off her frustration, she forced a smile. "Again, you look really nice."

He lingered in silence for a good minute, merely observing her deflated behavior but in the back of his mind all he knew was that after tonight he'd be his old self. And what better way to forget a random kiss, one that had been torturing him, than to resume his usual playboy ways?

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Secrets. Was this really all her life had become now? Would it be like this forever? The guilt, the depressed knot in her stomach constantly turning? Would the ache ever really go away? In her mind, even if she did decide to come clean on all accounts, she could see no feasible outcome where any of the sadness would end; guilt seemingly too stubborn to part from her.

As it were, she stood, wide eyed, tears threatening to spill over her cheeks, and Rachel shouting at her about... what was she saying? It was hard to understand through Rachel's pacing and rushed curses. After the guys had all left for their evening out, all Kori had managed to get done was a partial shower before Rachel barreled into the bathroom shouting accusations at her.

"I don't know what you're talking about!" Kori shouted, tightening the towel around her figure. "What kiss?" She exhaled curtly, her mind overwhelmed. "What the hell are you talking about?"

"Do you have any idea how close Xavier was to hearing about this?" Rachel released a crazed laugh, shaking her head. "Once again I had to save you from your own damn lies. Why would you even do something like that when you have Xavier? You would really risk your relationship with him for someone like Dick? You know he can't return your affections! Its Dick!"

"I would never make a move on Richard!" Kori found herself laughing now. The entire situation in which Rachel was accusing her of was purely irrational. "He's my best friend, why would I-"

"So its not true then?"

"No of course not."

"You're sure?" Rachel breathed heavily. "You aren't just making up more lies now are you?"

Ouch, that may have been deserved but... "Rachel I would never lie to you." She pinched at the bridge of her nose, anxiety rushing her. She was suppose to be excited about her date with Xavier, and this was destroying any amount of thrill she had managed to muster. Taking a deep inhale, she shook her head. "I never thought I would have to justify the innocence in my relationship with Richard." She shrugged helplessly. "After the party last night Richard and I went straight home and went to bed. I remember him asking me to go away with him for the weekend, to which I agreed and then he..." She cringed, the memory of last night no more than a smear of clouded fog. "I... he helped me to bed and... and then..." She shrugged. "Then I went to sleep."

"Are you sure? I just find it hard to believe Dick would go around spreading rumors about something like this."

Kori laughed. "Who says he's the one who started this ridiculous rumor? I really don't think its that big of a deal. It's probably jut a big misunderstanding. Richard knows I would never kiss him that way, and all of my friends know we don't see each other intimately, that our relationship is strictly platonic so..." She shrugged. "I don't see what the issue is. Feel free to stop yelling at me and let me finish getting ready for my hot date."

Rachel was hesitant to laugh but she gave in. It wasn't clear whether the situation had worked itself out but by the confidence in Kori's denial of such an occurrence, Rachel couldn't help but do her best to brush the subject away. Well, with the exception of one last comment.

"I can't take this anymore. I wont be your shield any longer. This is getting too much and I refuse to play along. Eventually someone's going to get hurt because of all these secrets and from where I'm standing it looks like everyone will. So... figure this shit out Kori. I'm done. I have this feeling things are about to get chaotic and... I'm done."

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"I'm glad we did this," Kori giggled, accepting Xavier's hand as he reached out to her, their hands laced together from opposing seats across a romantic dinner setting. "I know things with us have been a little off and on but tonight really put things in perspective for me. Tonight has been amazing; perfect. Thank you." Her eyes receded back into a more seductive gleam to which Xavier smirked back at, his thumb caressing the back of her hand. "I love you, Xavier Redd."

He blushed slightly, clearing his throat. "And I love you." He chuckled, that blush still present. "To be honest when you called me earlier I was under the impression you were going to cancel on me." His smile grew wider. "I'm glad you didn't. I miss you."

It was Kori's turn to blush now. "I spent the majority of yesterday with you. You couldn't have missed me that much."

He shrugged one shoulder, a more arrogant vibe infecting his attitude now. "You're a lucky woman, I seem to have grown more greedy with my time with you."

Great, because she's about to completely blindside you with...

Xavier's eyes narrowed, hesitation and suspicion of undesired information suddenly became anticipated at the awkward shift in Kori's presence. The lack of eye contact she made as of now only added to the confusion that set in with him now. And the usual nibbling of her bottom lip when nervous was a usual sign she was contemplating how to voice a problem.

"What's wrong?"

Kori's chest raised, and it was as though she was holding her breath, stress pricking at her nerves. "I.. I have something I want to tell you about."

Merely by the guilt dripping in her voice, Xavier new this had something to do with... "Is it about Dick?"

Her eyes snapped to his. Why did she feel so guilty in this request? Better yet, if guilt was her minds first instinct then why the hell was she going through with it?

"Yes." She said slowly. Her heart slowed as Xavier's hand removed itself from hers, leaving him to lean back in his chair now, arms crossed. Clearing her throat, she began to fidget with her hands nervously. "This weekend, he's... well, Richard invited me to his beach house."

"The entire weekend?"

Oh, he did not sound pleased, but she could tell he was trying to be accepting of her. Ugh, how could he be so wonderful to her? She was beginning to realize that she truly did not deserve him. So why then did he want her?

"We would most likely leave Friday afternoon, after my morning class, and surely be back before class on Monday." Kori swallowed hard, hating to see Xavier so vulnerable. Still, he gave a reluctant nod. "If you aren't comfortable with it, then-"

"Wait," He interrupted, leaning forward in his chair now, an impatient chuckle surfacing. "Why wouldn't I be comfortable with it? Who all is going to this weekend getaway?"

"Just... well,..." her heart was pounding fiercer now, eyes searching his for understanding. "It would just be the two of us." And there it was, that ever so expected crumble in composure. Xavier shook his head, slouching back into his seat in defeat. "It isn't a big deal. He and I use to do this all the time and-"

"Its fine," He replied calmly, yet Kori knew him enough to pick up on the lingering frustration underlined in his tone. He forced a closed mouthed smile. It was times like this when he wished for nothing more then the weekend getaways they would plan for themselves; slipping through the shadows to escape the watchful eye of those in Gotham who were meant to keep an eye out on Kori's whereabouts only to report back to Richard. "Of course its fine." He stood, walking around the table and planting a sweet kiss on her lips. "I'll be right back."

That hadn't gone as smoothly as she had planned, still as Xavier left she found herself catching her breath. He was always so understanding. Maybe that's why she felt guilty for taking Richard up on his offer? Who knows, but there was no stifling this stinging sensation within the pit of her stomach at the sight of seeing Xavier so disappointed.

"Xavier, wait..." She swallowed hard as he paused, looking back to her. "I... I've decided to tell Richard about us this weekend."

"Are you... are you sure?"

She inhaled deeply, hesitation encompassing her every nerve. Was she sure? No, she would keep this secret as long as she could avoid the truth. However, it was becoming more and more clear that this lie didn't effect herself but also Xavier and for him she would do anything. "Yes."

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"I had fun."

Richard, fresh out of the shower, a towel released to the floor as he pulled a pair of boxers then sweatpants on, forced a smile. "Yea. It was alright."

The girl, scrambling to find her other yellow high heel somewhere on the floor of his bedroom, rolled her eyes. "Always the charmer, now aren't you?" Finding her heel, she stood upright, arms crossing and she stared over at him. "I guess this is the part where you kick me out?"

"When you say it like that it sounds so cold." he laughed, the girl following him as he made his way out of the room and into the kitchen, busying himself with making a bowl of cereal.

The girl lingered, staring at him annoyed, a hand at her hip. "So... that's it?" He looked to her as though he was confused by her question. What more did she really expect from him? "No exchanging numbers so we can maybe... I don't know... do this again sometime?"

If the girl had been annoyed in the first place, the sight of Richard choking on his cereal in amusement of her question definitely made it worse. Laughing he shook his head at her. "That's not usually how this works. Its called a one night stand for a reason."

She moved toward him, a more seductive gleam rising within her. "And suppose you met someone worthy of being an exception to your little playboy rule? Would you grant her the privilege of going beyond one night with you?"

Richard smiled. Sure, he knew this girl, whatever her name was, was in fact hinting toward herself, but he couldn't help it; he would respond as he always would in a situation like this. "When I meet her I'll be sure to let you know." It sounds horrible, but the disgust and offense in her eyes brought a warmth to him. He knew the excitement he felt at watching someone's pride be shattered as a result of him was probably inhumane, but still, it brought a smile to his lips. Afterall this precise moment was all that being Dick Grayson was expected; he was unattainable. Taking another bite of his cereal, he motioned to the exit. "There's the door."

"Are you serious?" She growled.

He leaned back into the counter, the bowl of cereal securely in his hand as he continued to spoon himself bites. "As serious as I can be."

Its almost as though he was waiting for something, excited to hear his usual label spill from her lips, and when she finally said it, he couldn't help but widen his smile.

She had turned, tossing a loud, "You're an asshole."

Richard's own laughter was short lived as he heard footsteps returning. Rolling his eyes, he said, "What now? Can't you take a hint? I don't want-" He fell silent as Kori looked back at him curiously. Setting the bowl of cereal down on the counter, he straightened his posture, voice finding a more strict vibe. "You've been gone this whole time? I thought you were already asleep?" He looked to the microwave stationed across the kitchen and checked the time. "Do you have any idea how late it is?"

Kori smiled, putting her purse down on one of the counters. "How was your night?" Avoiding the question, was she? "I saw your girl leaving." She looked to him and smiled cutely. "She was gorgeous."

"She's not my girl." He corrected her.

Kori's eyes narrowed and she laughed. Since when was he so sensitive about her comments? "Sorry, how would you like me to refer to your late night visits?"

"I'd prefer you didn't reference any of them at all."

"Why?" She laughed. "You talk about them to the guys, how am I any different?"

"It just is."

"Why?" She pressed further. Aside from her stressful issue with letting Xavier know about her weekend away with Richard, the night had been very fun. Even if she could tell Richard was in no mood for her teasing, she was enjoying his frustration.

"Because, you aren't one of the guys. You're... you."

"And what does that mean, exactly? I'm starting to sound like more of a possession than an actual person."

He shook his head, still suspended in anxiety where Kori was concerned. "I don't know how to explain it. You're..." He paused in thought for a moment. "You're my best friend. If I had a girl, it would be you." A tightness in his chest surfaced at the rise in her curious brow. "You know what I mean."

She hesitated, not entirely sure why she felt so comforted by his words. "Actually, I have something crazy to tell you." She bit at her lip, rather nervous to draw attention to where this conversation was about to go. "I heard this rumor going around about us." Her voice shook slightly at the sudden interest he took now. His eyes widened, staring at her curiously and hoping she had not caught wind of what was going on in his own head. "Apparently, someone is going around telling people that I kissed you." His eyes lowered to the floor, and he mentally set a reminder for himself to have a nice chat with Vic about keeping his mouth shut. "Can you believe that?"

"That's... crazy."

"Oh, I don't think so." She started in a teasing high pitched voice as she moved toward him, a playful gleam in her eyes. Her hands pinched at both of his cheeks and she made small kissing sounds with her lips. "All my life people have been telling me that we would never make it as just friends. That I'd eventually give in to that Grayson charm," She brought a hand to her forehead and faked a small faint back into him, her head resting against his chest. " Be swooned by those beautiful eyes of yours." She giggled, unaware of the heat rising within Richard at the moment of her touch. She paused turning to him with an amused expression. "Did I ever tell you about the time one of Bruce's ex girlfriends took me aside and asked if you and I were secretly 'together'?"

He laughed. "No. When was this?"

She rolled her eyes. "When we were in high school. Even then everyone thought our friendship was just aloof." She shook her head at him. "You know, being your friend has caused me so much drama. Haven't even been here a week and the rumors are already starting. I doubt I'll ever be seen as anything aside from the prostitute you keep around when your bored."

"Now why would you say something like that?" He asked, quite offended. In this moment he was trying his hardest to focus on her words but he had to fight his minds overpowering need to overlook her appearance. She was dressed up. For what? Where had she been this evening? There was a very distinguishable difference in her happiness right now and he was certain it couldn't have been because of him. No, he had been ignoring her most of the day and completely MIA with the guys all night. So... where was this coming from? In experience, it had always been him capable of causing such an elated mood from her coupled with that heart-stopping and bubbly smile of hers.

"Oh come on, I know you've heard what people say." She inhaled deeply, entirely unaware of the concerns and slight jealousy rippling through his core. "Don't worry though, I'm a strong girl. I just ignore it."

He took to humor to ease her saddened behavior, as well as divert his stubborn thoughts from any jealousy lingering. "I don't know why anyone would call you a prostitute." She looked to him with that 'oh really?' look and he laughed. "I've never paid for sex and I most certainly never will."

"That's comforting... thanks." She paused, watching closely as he smiled down at his bowl of cereal, paying due to the last few bites. Her voice softened. "Are we... okay?"

He looked up at her confused. "What do you mean?"

"Well, when I told you about the rumor you didn't exactly seem surprised by it. Is it the rumor that has you all distant with me again? … or is it something else?"

He took a deep breathe. If only it were so simple that his nerves were obsessed with hesitation over a mere rumor. What should he do in this situation though? It wasn't like he would actually tell her the rumor originated from him. And if she was so concerned with denying its truth then she must have forgotten it all altogether. Hmm, a drunken mistake. I guess Vic was right about that one. Why then did that undefined feeling suffer wounding when she laughed at the possibility of sharing an intimate kiss with him? Why was he even debating his emotions over something Kori took as ridiculously impossible? Well, if anything was certain... Kori was beginning to become this mystery to him in which he wasn't so thrilled on the journey it would take to figure her out, let alone decipher why he was so invested in it. And its safe to say the suspense was killing him...

"Did you still want to discuss the details of this weekend?" The expression that overcame her left him confused. Her happiness had faltered, suspended in obvious hesitation and uncertainty. "Are... you're still going with me aren't you?"

The smile she gave seemed halfhearted and only further weakened his ego in relation to her. "Of course."

Frustration greeted him at her response. It seemed so painful for her to respond, and the fact he could clearly pick up on the hesitation she remained in only angered him further. His eyes, as she spoke, set on her mouth, lips painted in red lipstick, and he couldn't help but swallow hard; feeling drawn into them. Why did he still have that unrelenting urge to feel the sensation of her lips against his once more? Wasn't the eventful night he just finished with enough to settle any sort of urge?

Apparently not...

He moved toward her, one hand at her waist as he drew her toward him and the other fitted at her jawline. "This weekend is going to be perfect."

Kori smiled up at him, one that wavered slightly as she gazed into his sapphire eyes. There was something different about the way he stared down at her, and surprisingly enough, she found herself yearning for... something more from him. What it was, she wasn't sure, but the feeling was there and, if she wasn't being too ridiculous, she could tell, for some reason, he was feeling the same way.

Swallowing hard, Kori brought her nose to his, brushing it from left to right, earning a sweet laugh from him. "I'm looking forward to it."

He could feel her trying to break away from the close distant, probably to head to bed, the only issue being, that he wanted nothing more then to be close to her right now. This weekend away could not come soon enough.

Gripping her hand as she tried to turn away from him, he sent a smirk down at her. "You in the mood for some company?"

Great, now that his random hookup had left she was worthy of his attention. Can you be anymore predictable Grayson?

She eyed him with falsified disgust. "Are you sure you have the energy to sit and watch cartoons with me?"

He rolled his eyes. "Hey, I showered." He flashed her a toothy smile. "And brushed my teeth, just for you."

"Oh you're so thoughtful. I'm one lucky girl."

Normally she would have dropped the teasing by now and its prolonged presence in her tone was only making that undefined emotion spike within him yet again.

And there it was again, that involuntary crawl of his eyes over her beautiful figure, coupled with that tenseness in his chest. He found himself lingering in a gaze over her soft lips once more, still yearning for their touch.

"You don't have to watch them with me. I'm sure you'll only last a few minutes anyhow," As she said this, Richard snapped from his thoughts to find her shaking her head at him, a giggle taking to life as she looked over his expression amused. "You look exhausted."

"I am," He agreed. "However," He leaned toward her slightly, pointing to his left cheek, "... a kiss from you can cure anything, sweetheart."

Kori rolled her eyes, it always made her giggle when he asked her for anything, but a kiss had always resulted in her becoming a giggling mess. She could remember the first time, when they were just kids, that she kissed him on this very cheek and the poor kid lit up like fireworks. She had been trying to cheer him up after learning that she would be going away with her parents and would be away from him for a solid block of three days, to which he was not looking forward to. She had laced her hands cutely behind herself and leaned toward him, planting a sweet kiss to his left cheek and he turned to her without hesitation and smiled, saying 'Do I have permission to ask for one of those again?'. She had responded with 'anytime you like', and since then she would always replay this memory in her head and it made her happy, giggly,... anything happiness related. It was definitely nice to know that some things hadn't changed.

Richards eyes shut at the touch of Kori's hand which latch around the back of his neck, pulling him toward her, and he made it his mission to memorize every emotion hitting him as those soft lips met his skin.

… Perfection...

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(A/N) Next Chapter, Xavier has a few words with Kori before she and Richard wander off for the weekend, and its these words that set motion to a very eventful playout one at the beach house.