Ink Writes Music

DGM

Chapter 6

Haters

So, the day was going smoothly for me for once. English went fine, Komui's class didn't have an explosion or robot attack, and no projects were given, not much homework either. Lunch was amazing. Lavi was cooling down and though suspicious, I didn't ask in fear he might blow up. Then, he might be sick... in the head. I said nothing to Kanda, and in return, he said nothing to me. I often spoke with Lenalee since I had her in several classes, more than the others. It's when I got to Health class things went downhill.

I hate this class. It's easy sure, but the videos we watch are terrible. Health class is about many things. The simple things like body hygiene, growth, reproduction, then comes sex education, drugs, eating disorders, health problems, and diseases. At first it wasn't so bad. That was in Middle School, but now they keep repeating certain subjects and with new facts to strongly discourage us. Funny how no matter the strength of discouragement, it doesn't stop half the kids in High School or Middle School from tryinng it. I was one of them.

Our teacher decided to take a break from sex education. At first I was glad about it, but then I realized what else he was going to talk about. Drugs. I tried to lay my head on my desk and look at the darkness since my head was on my arms, but I got yelled at each time.

"This is important, Walker, sit up!"

I already know enough about drugs. How could I not? I used to take them. That's why I'm so ashamed of myself, but I wasn't going to tell the Health teacher that so I could get away with not watching them and listening to people speak about taking drugs, see how bad they looked, and how broke they were. I've been through it, at such a young age, too.

"Allen Walker, please come to the office. Leverrier wants to see you. I repeat, Allen Walker, report to the office at once."

I gathered my books, and the teacher gave me an icy yet sympathetic look before she nodded and let me leave. Geez, did they have to call me over the entire school intercom? They couldn't send someone to get me or just use the classroom's intercom? I wonder if Lavi was pulling a prank, but would he bring Leverrier in it?

"Did I do something, Sir?" I ask dryly, sitting across from Leverrier in the desk.

Seriously, why was this guy the principal?

I don't look at him. Instead, I'm reading a book and often glancing at a boy working in his office. I'm sure he was still in school. If not, who cares? He has a job and looks young. That's supposed to be good. Unless he's a major kiss up because that's what he looked like he was. What's weird was those two red dots on his forehead. What was he trying to do? Insults snakes with red eyes or convince blondes to try and do connect the dots? Then, he was a blonde himself.

Hmmm, I wonder who started calling blondes airheads and dummies? I've met plenty of smart blondes, but there are some that are out there. Oh well.

"Certainly, Walker." Leverrier said bitterly, snapping me out of my thoughts and my eyes darted away from my book. "It's your file."

My book dropped on the floor when I saw my portfolio on his desk. That was faster than I thought it would be to be transferred here, but nobody ever says anything to me about it.

"I understand you were in a gang about two years ago. You've been sober for two years also, meaning you were using drugs. It seems there isn't one in particular you used either." Mr. Leverrier admired foully.

"That was two years ago." I automatically defended myself.

Leverrier glared at me with eyes colder than Kanda's. I don't know what it was about them, but they penetrated my shield. I felt my mask failing me this time, and I jumped to my feet.

"I've been staying out of trouble if this is what it's about!"

He held his hand up, demanding silence from me. Not wanting to shut up I go to protest further. "I-"

"You are a delinquent, and we will not accept any games from you. I suggest you learn to keep your mouth shut in school seeing how you like coming up with smart-mouth comments. I wouldn't be surprised to see you back on addicting hazards like that again. I expect you to stay clean while attending this school. As for your gang activities-"

"I don't have any!"

Leverrier scowled and snorted.

"Why am I to trust you when you betrayed your own family's trust? Isn't that why you're with Marian Cross? As I said, behave or pay the consequences."

He was getting to me. I wanted to lash out at him, punch him in the face, but then I'd get suspended or worse. I couldn't do that. I let things slip once; I'm not letting it happen again.

"I am also aware that if you do another severe misdemeanor you'll be taken to court again." Leverrier skimmed through my file that I so badly wanted to take away. I wouldn't even tell the people I've befriended about this, why would I want to tell the man I hate about it? It's none of his business. It's over and done with! "If you start up a fight you may be put in a juvenile facility. A crime committed by you will lead to fines, expulsion, and community services. Drugs will lead to indefinite probation, juvenile facility-"

"I know all this! If I make a serious offense I'll be in trouble will the law and this worthless school! I'm aware of everything, but there isn't much I can do in school to put me on my last offense! So if you're done with scolding me on something you know nothing about, I'm going home. The last bell had already rang." I shout angrily, but the anger was just to hide the pain he inflicted on me.

"I'll be watching you." Leverrier uttered, but he added one more thing before I could exit the school in a disorganized way. "You are to be checked for drugs and alcohol fluids according to your reports after a certain amount of time. Your next schedule for this is arriving shortly. And another thing Walker, be careful with your friends. You wouldn't want your actions to affect them, would you? You won't have to worry about them too much longer, once their guardians find out you'll be-"

"Is this a threat, Sir?"

"It's a warning."

The door slams shut after that. I stomp away angrily to my locker, grab whatever I need and scram out of there. The buses had left by now, and I really do not care. It might've been what Leverrier wanted actually. The only thing he didn't do was announce it over the intercom!

"Hey, Allen, what are you still doing here?"

I stop walking mid-stride when I hear Lenalee behind me. I guess she didn't go home with Komui or to The Shed.

"Allen?"

Lenalee steps in front of me and I stare at her silently. She waits, expecting an answer soon.

"Lenalee, has Cross, or anyone, told you... anything about me?" My eyes drop to the ground.

"No, why?" Lenalee crosses her arms behind her back and bends over to look in my eyes. When she realizes something was upsetting me, she frowns. "What did he say?"

He?

"Who?"

"Leverrier! I was afraid he was going to say or do something to you when I heard them call you over the intercom. I was hoping I was wrong, so I stuck around, seeing how you never left the building."

She cared, that's nice. Lenalee could be a darling, or she can be the mean one you don't want to mess with. It was like she was the mom in our band.

"It's okay, Lenalee. I jus'-I don't wanna talk about it."

At first I didn't think she would let it go, but she did. I'm not sure if it was because it was sympathy or understanding. I had a feeling I would later tell her about it.

"Would Cross yell at you if you don't return home straightaway?" She asked.

"Perhaps, perhaps not. Why, the band practicing today?" A worry look crossed her face when she saw how unenthusiastic I was. She's learned that when I talk about music, I'm overjoyed, but not now. I was down in the dumps.

"No, today we're giving ya a break." Lenalee said, starting to walk, so I followed.

"Me? I haven't taken a break from practicing in years." I respond, half joking.

Lenalee smiled. I was kinda glad I could be myself around her, somehow.

"That's your fault then."

"Yep, but I'm not complaining. Music's my passion."

I was starting to forget about Leverrier now. Mana and Neah, especially Cross, would always tell me a woman had this magical power that will get you, giving you warmth and comfort. A lady could build you up, or tear you down. Now that I think about it, I hear that everywhere: on TV, in songs, in books, from other people. I wonder, what is it the girls say about guys? I bet ours is bad since the male sex has a known reputation to break little girls' hearts. Girls have that rep too, but damn, you hear more about guys. Isn't that why the Father is always so protective? And Komui? I've seen him 'protect Lenalee's innocence'.

Lenalee pulled out her drumsticks and twirled them with her fingers easily.

"Music's my love." She winked.

My face got warm for no apparent reason, but I hoped the blush I knew was coming wasn't evident to her. I find it hard not to blush around her, extremely hard. "What made you want to be a musician, Lenalee?" I wondered.

"To be honest, I can't remember a day I didn't want to be part of it, but my mind-set morphed to reality the day my parents died. The days were long, and I stuck to my brother like he was my lifeline, like he'd be leaving me soon and I'd be left all alone. One day I wandered away, found a drum set being set up and a newly bought guitar beside it. Tried them both, but the drums were easier to use. I pounded on them with rage and remorse. It made me feel so much better, I knew it was what I needed to console me during times someone couldn't. Using my feelings and emotions I could make great music, music I wanted everyone to hear. Lavi heard me play and decided to throw me in the band, I immediately agreed and I met the great ole him." Lenalee laughed at the thought.

"You're parents died?" I asked numbly.

"Forget about it, Allen, it's alright. I've gotten used to it. I mean, I was so young then, I don't even remember them now." Lenalee said, but there was a hint of sadness in her melodic voice.

"If it helps, I never had a mom." I utter.

Lenalee sighed. "Neither does Lavi or Kanda. Guess we're all stuck with the boys, eh? Psst, it might not bother me, but it does Komui like hell." She rolls her eyes here-I had to stifle my chuckles. "The boys hang with the boys. Those boys have friends. Leaves more options open for me. Sadly they all run wild when they meet Komui."

I covered my mouth. I was cracking up because it was true, but it was a little funny. It didn't even dawn me she was saying she was gazing at the boys hazily for some time. It didn't hit me that she was looking for a boyfriend til much later in the walk. It definitely hit me when she smacked my head with her stick.

"Ow, what was that for?"

"It's not funny!"

"What's not funny?"

She gave me an expression I get a lot. It said loud and clear, "How oblivious are you, twit?" I admit it, sometimes people confuse me. Though the answer is so simple, I hardly ever get it. When they tell me I express sheepishness.

"Komui and his over-protectiveness. That stuff. What you're laughing at." Lenalee hissed.

I think she's more embarrassed than she is angry. It was written across her face. I find it cute.

"So-sorry."

Lenalee blinked with confusion, then a wide grinned spread. It was unknown about why she smiled. Surely the apology didn't mean that much.

"Why Allen, you've become a lot nicer, haven't you? You're not worrying about hiding from me anymore. Instead of running it's like you're embracing me." Lenalee said in a puzzling way.

The wheels turned in my head, trying to figure out what she meant. Seeing how it was taking too long, she went blunt.

"You're trying to be friends, not forcing everyone away. You're showing your true self."

Not entirely. She was half right. Or was she?

"Well, uh," I didn't have many words to say. I've never acted this way in the last two years. I've haven't been so. . . spirited anymore. "I suppose so."

It was weird. I was being straightforward, not trying to cover anything up. I would lie right about now or walk away, but my heart told me not to while my mind faltered with ideas, options. This little town and this band were changing me. So fast. And it's something I don't want to stop.

"What's up little birdy?" But this is where the day went far downhill with that peculiar person.

Lenalee dropped her drumstick, and every muscle in her body tensed. She was frozen. I didn't like the look in her eyes. A sense of fear, sadness, a mix of disturbance, and slight fury, but a flash of desperation and despair blinded me. Once it flashed and disappeared, it returned permanently. My eyes roused unkindly at the hand that lay on her neck and right above her hip.

"Tyk-Tyki." Lenalee stammered.

I scrutinize the owner of these hands. He had ashen skin, curly hair, an uncomfortable pair of golden eyes, and half a tux in all. Oh, don't forget that mole on his cheek. It suited a guy like him, but I honestly hated him with burning passion. It didn't help that Lenalee's eyes were glimmering brightly, informing me she was about to cry, and her body was trembling. I lost my cool when a finger played with her long hair, a tear forming in the corner of her eyes.

"~ Hello, Lena ~."

"Remove your hands from her." I bark, making the strange stranger glower at me. "Don't make me repeat it."

"Who's this?" He tipped his head dumbly with a sinister smile.

"Allen, don't."

"Oh, Allen, that new kid in school, right?" Tyki, as I recall Lenalee calling him, said.

What bothered me was that this guy went to our school and I didn't even know it.

"He's cute." A girl beside him said.

I took this time to examine the group around Tyki. A girl with spiky hair was chewing on gum, two boys with golden guns pointed at each other and crappy gothic clothes, a big bulky guy I'd be stupid to take on in a fight, and an emotionless blonde haired woman with glasses. She looked to be in college, though, because of how sophisticated she appeared. Either way, I wasn't too fond of any one of them.

It seeped into my brain that Tyki's hands were still on Lenalee. I told him I wasn't going to repeat myself, and I didn't. I snatched Lenalee's wrist and pulled her close to my body, glaring at Tyki. My fury skyrocketed when Lenalee continued trembling because of the tears she was trying to hold back.

"Let's go, Lenalee." I whisper in her ear.

She didn't look up, she didn't look back, I just kept on walking with my arms around her. I could hear their footsteps and muttering behind me, though.

"Who's he?" I ask.

"My. . . ex. . exbo-oyfriend." That's right, the guy who dumped her. I could still remember her solemn expression. There was a reason why he broke up with her, Lenalee had to know it, and it tore her heart up. Not that it was any of my business, but I was yearning to know what the hell he did.

"Are you alright?" I mumble softly.

She doesn't answer. I had a few ideas why. She didn't want to answer because of the situation, or she didn't want to lie. Lying to me, I believe she'd only be cheating herself. That'd be totally unlike her.

"Oi, shounen!"

That's one Japanese word I do know. At least it wasn't an insult. "My name's Allen. Now beat it asshole." I growl, pulling Lenalee tighter. I didn't want her to look back.

Lenalee stopped moving, however. I had to do the same. I didn't even bother asking what's wrong or demand her to move her feet. Through the pain, Lenalee had the courage to turn around and face Tyki. Like I said, I really hated that guy and I really didn't want her to face him, but this was something she had to do. Something very bad must have happened between the two. The good thing, she had more self-control, and she wasn't going to cry. Her eyes were stony now, body plainly tense, but she wasn't scared or on the brink of breaking down. Maybe Tyki stunned her by touching her in such an atrocious way after breaking up with her. I know that hurts a girl. Deeply.

"Hi, Lena." Tyki saluted.

"Hi, Tyki." Lenalee remained monotone.

Tyki and his gang lazily examined us, but I knew most of them were staring at me in spite of my eyes remaining solely on Tyki.

"This your new boyfriend?" Tyki asked.

I didn't answer, but I think Tyki took that as a yes since Lenalee didn't either. It was theirs or specifically, his business. I wasn't going to correct his assumption, but I thought my friend would. However, I was smug about the fact that his eyes held a form of heat... Jealousy? Ha, typical. The boy ruined his chances. There's no way I would let him and Lenalee get back together under any circumstances. I'd go crazy like Komui if necessary.

"Lenalee, let'sa go." I reach for her hand, holding it dearly despite my cold eyes on Tyki.

XxLxExNxAxX

So here I am, with Allen and my unfavorable ex. Why I ever dated him is unknown even to me. Was it because Komui meant nothing to him? I mean, he didn't care about Komui's absurdness? The first time I met Tyki he was so charming. Now I loathe him with all my heart, but then why does it hurt? Was it because of why he left me? It's bitter, the facts he let slip from his mouth one day. He thought I didn't hear it. What's worse is... He stole my first kiss. He stole my security. He ruined my feelings, and broke my heart into pieces. He didn't just affect me. Tyki Mikk stole some of the band's songs! Tyki only used me!

But when he touched me like he used to, I felt his love again, his fake love I fell for. That's what startled me, what stunned me. It hurts. It made me want to cry knowing everything that has happened. This jerk was earning popularity with my band's songs. It's just... I don't even know anymore.

"Lenalee, come on."

I shift my head sorely, but I had a surge of pleasantness, and my lost security came back when Allen's hand took hold of mine in a gentle manner, his other hand wrapping a little above my waist. A small smirk covered my face seeing the look in Tyki's eyes. Regret. I more or less denied this after a brief second 'cause it soon vanished.

"Lenalee." Allen said for a third time.

I turn, letting Allen pull me close to him as if to protect me. Surprisingly, I found gentle warmth residing with him. I wanted to hug him tightly, wanting more of his warmth. I thought he would be cold because how crude he could be. Because of how rancorous he was towards Tyki and his band and family. It was a little amusing. He could be soft yet harshly coarse at the same time.

Allen guided me down the street. Tyki's golden eyes were glaring holes in my back, I know they were, but I just stuffed my face in Allen's side. At first, Allen stiffened, but he loosened. I forgot how badly Allen hated another touching him, but that never stopped Lavi or me sometimes. Right now I had to grip him, so I threw away his phobia, if it was a phobia.

What made me smile was that Allen never left me. He didn't take off. We sat at a bench now that Tyki was long gone. For a long time I sat with him, letting go, then hugging him again. Once I cried. You could tell Allen wasn't too used to this, but he was good at consoling me. He never mentioned Tyki or his worthless band. He took my mind away from them, so I let him think. What I very much loved about this situation was that I got to see Allen's true colors shining here. Truthfully, I loved his companionship, his comforting, and his hug.

He was concerned about me. I could see his worry in his nary deceitful eyes. I guess he felt a need to protect me more or he could tell I was still upset because when, because I finally decided to let him walk me home as the sky burned orange-red. In a couple of hours the sun would fall, and the moon would rise. Another fact, I was glad he wouldn't let me go, because I fear of falling down and breaking into tears had he done just that.

Lavi's Lamborghini and Kanda's Mustang were at my house when we arrived. I also recognized Reever's, my Brother's best friend, car outside, too. I could hear Komui screaming loudly and wailing already. I knew why. I never called him. I told him I'd be back home early, but it was going on six o'clock right now. Can you believe it? I stayed with Allen in this position for three hours!

Knowing how my brother and the others would react, I try to squirm away from Allen, but he only tightened his grip. I pause, feeling his arm quiver. Why? Was he still angry (why was he angry to begin with?) or upset? I don't know, but I was worried about what the others would say. I think Brother might kill Allen!

The front door was wide open, but the screen door was sealed shut. Being a gentleman, Allen opened it for me, ushering me inside. I notice him looking back outside before he turned to examine the house and shut the door quietly. That click must have been heard. Komui's frightening wails halted.

And still Allen did not let go.

I grasp Allen's arm, walking towards the living room to see Komui's red and puffy eyes. The mess was incredible! We need more lamps and we have some cleaning up to do.

"LENALEE!" Komui begins to run towards me with tears running down his face, but time froze when he suddenly stopped, witnessing how securely Allen was holding me.

I could feel my face burning up when all eyes were on Allen and me curiously. Lavi was smirking, Kanda was infuriated because of this mess, but couldn't hide his queer thoughts about this. Reever was frowning, not yet having met Allen, and still irate about my last dating session. I see a few more of Komui's friends and fellow scientists with the same expression. Only meek wonder rested with them.

"Hi... Brother." I hesitantly say.

Allen's hand slides away from my waist, but he stills holds my hand, not looking at anyone, just the door behind us. Was he going to run? No, then why would he still be holding my hands?

"Lenalee, why are you and Allen snuggling?" Komui resentfully questioned, gaining some seriousness.

I go to answer, but something stops me. I didn't want to talk about it. I didn't want to worry Komui. He'll never leave me alone again.

"We're not snuggling." Allen deadpanned.

"It sure looks like it boy." Russel states.

Allen pressed his lips together tightly, eyes dimming. I couldn't tell you what he was thinking, but I wanted to know what it was.

"The Moyashi isn't one to do that shit." Kanda said, somehow not helping us.

Allen finally released me completely, eyes softening as he looked at me, ignoring them.

"Are you going to be alright?" I was speechless. His gaze was so tender. I never thought in my life Allen could be so sweet. "Lenalee?"

Slowly I nod my head, but irritation grew in his eyes. He was looking at something through the window nearby. I held my breath thinking he couldn't possibly still be there, but I was wrong. Tyki was there and in a foul mood, too. I swear Allen was going to burst. Komui traced our gazes and narrowed his eyes. "What's he doing here?" He demanded.

"Brother, I... He... I-Allen! Where are you going?" I struggle with the words, but when Allen struts off, I panic. I had a bad notion.

Soon I see Lavi and Kanda following him. When I trailed after them, the crowd gathered on the porch because of the craziness and thought of what might happen. Why today? Why was this happening?

"Allen!"

Tyki smirks. That's the first thing I see when I exit the house. Why won't he just leave me alone?

"Get out of here!" Lavi orders.

"Who's gonna make me? I'm not on her property." Tyki retorts, puffing out smoke from his mouth. Ugh, he still smokes.

Indeed, Tyki wasn't on my property, but like that was going to stop a bloodbath from occurring.

"I warned you to leave Lenalee alone." Allen hissed.

"No, you told me to take my hands off her." Tyki says, trying to provoke Allen.

"What do you mean he told you?" Kanda joins in.

"I mean just that. I just so happened to run into my dear ole gal."

Allen clenches his fist and scurries off the porch. What has gotten into him?

"She's not your gal and she isn't an item you possess. Most importantly you have no right to be stalking her nor do you have a right to be taunting her. There is such a thing as respect that you seem to be lacking." Allen said coldly, moving ruggedly.

"My, my, such hostility. I just wanted to talk to Lena-"

"Not interested!" I shout at once.

"There, now beat it." Allen includes. I could imagine the wide eyes I had. He was being so protective. I don't get it!

"Allen?" Komui whispers beside me.

Tyki was definitely amused as he leaned on the pole. Allen stood less than a meter away from him. He seemed to be my manifestation of rage. I did want to see Tyki beaten to a yucky pulp. But the mood changes when he grins almost kindly.

"Will you be so polite as to leave Lenalee alone?" He says quietly.

"What the hell is with him?" Kanda grumbles, standing on the front steps.

Tyki flicks ash on the cement pavement, smirk still present. "Hmmm, maybe." He takes another drag on his death stick. "I heard you were a pianist."

"Yeah, so?" Allen didn't seem to care.

"You any good?"

"The best pianist in the world!" I exclaim, covering my mouth at my outburst when I realized what I said.

Did I mention Tyki also played the piano? Yep, that meant he used to be in our band. That's how he stole the songs. So you can only imagine the furiousness dwelling within Tyki. When his cigarette snapped in half, you witnessed his suppressed rage. Damn , it was just a rage-filled day.

"The best?" Tyki sneered. "Prove it pipsqueak." Tyki poked Allen's chest dangerously.

Allen gripped his wrist and threateningly twisted it. If he bent it any further I fear he'll break it. I didn't like the violence anymore. I just didn't want to see it. I don't know why, but the idea of Allen fighting scared me. I wasn't afraid of Allen getting hurt. I was afraid of Tyki getting his ass handed to him, and I don't know why.

"My name is Allen. It's not a hard name to remember so get it right!"

"Allen!"

Allen turned his head and once he did this, Tyki swung his fist at him, hitting him directly in the face and sending him back. I winced at the sound of Allen hitting the road. My body moved on instinct and ran over to him hastily. I could hear footsteps behind me, signaling Kanda and Lavi behind me. I was the fastest runner in town after all.

"Allen! Allen!"

Allen sits up, wiping his face clean of blood. I kneel down beside him and could tell he was going to get a small bruise below his gorgeous eye. It was going to be weird for him to have a bruise on one side and his strange scar on the other side. Great.

"Allen, dude, you-"

"That's pathetic." Allen mused, standing up.

Tyki was about to lash out now, but a red-headed man stood in between him and Allen. He was familiar. My mind couldn't process who he was. I know him from somewhere. "What are you doing here Cross?" Allen inquires uncaringly.

"Does it matter?" Cross replies.

"Tch." Now Allen sounded so much like Kanda. "I'm not paying anymore debts to cover your lousy ass."

"Choose your words wisely kid." Cross warns, turning to look at Tyki. "And your actions. You know very well how bad it will be if you get in a fight."

Allen looks at the ground sadly. I wonder why he went depressed suddenly. "I know, but... I couldn't just stand there... And he hit me first... And. ..." Allen sighs, giving me one last glance before closing his eyes. "Just get that bastard to leave. He hasn't left Lenalee alone, and it's aggravating to treat a fine lady like that."

Cross smirks crookedly, taking a gun out of his hoister, pointing it at Tyki.

"CROSS!" Komui yelps, fleeing over to him. "DON'T! That's going to be very, very, very bad if you shoot him. He's underage, you'll be tried for assault. You'll be thrown in jail!"

Tyki took a few steps back seeing how serious Cross was. I was... no longer sure of anything. I just knew these two, Allen and Cross, they were protecting me, no, my heart. I could feel it pound in my chest with excitement and bravery. Something assured me everything was going to be okay, that they would protect my heart, protect me as long as they were around. This was the feeling I had with my brother, with my band members, Lavi and Kanda, with my friends.

"Now that's one thing I can't accept, punk. Either you get out of here or you'll have an extra hole in your head." Cross said, making me gape in horror.

Tyki gulped nervously and walked off. I could tell he wanted to run.

"Serves him right." Kanda grumbles.

Allen smiles sincerely, nodding his head in agreement.

"Hey, Lenalee, Tyki, he's-"

"-In a band, our rival band." Lavi breaks in. "They're out to destroy our band and smash our dreams. We compete in almost everything as they, or Tyki if you want to say, tries to outdo us. They'll even be competing with us in a contest that's coming up that we can now attend because of you. We just need a few more new songs."

Allen met my eyes. He had determination in his eyes, concern, but heartiness. I couldn't help but smile, thinking about how we were going to clear up this sticky situation. We don't need Komui to kill him, do we?

"Thank you, Allen. I owe you." I say gratefully.

Allen smiled nonchalantly, pleasantly. That warmth I felt earlier while hugging him came back. I could feel his embrace around me. It was a shield.

"But, Allen, your eye." Now it was my turn to be the worrywart.

Allen flinched when I gently touched it, smile widening oddly. He leaned forward and hugged me.

"I'd do anything for you, Lenalee. You are my friend after all." He whispers to me. "I should be thanking you, so, thanks, Lenalee."

Why is Allen Walker thanking me?

XxOxOxOxOxX

Please let me know what you think. I tried showing both Allen's and Lenalee's softer sides and the bitterness they held, too. This is where things will start to get interesting in my opinion. Let's just say, Tyki's band helps the plot of this story about 49% or so.

PS: redchocobo, did this help any with Lenalee and the point of the story, if only a little? Please let me know, I'd like to fix it.

~ ~ ~ Anon Novelist ~ ~ ~