A.N.: Hello everyone…I hope you're ready for another installment of this fic. Let's just say…things will slowly come to pass that were mentioned in the previous chapter. This chapter will start-off from where the last one left off…where Sora left with his brother and companions to get sized for their uniforms, and receive their schedules. We'll just see where this one goes, shall we..?
Secondly, I'd like to thank those of you who reviewed after I returned from my…short hiatus. I appreciate each and every one of those reviews…so arigato.
And now, to present the eighth chapter…
Italics: Thoughts, flashbacks…
3/10/08- Edited for spelling, grammar, and story consistency.
Terms you should know:
French:
Cravate- Tie, necktie.
Canapé- Couch.
Montre- Watch, wristwatch.
Ciel- Sky.
Téléviseur- Television.
"Portrait of a Young Woman"
By
Malcolm Yuy
Chapter 8: Congregating Problems
I can't let that one thought cease from my mind.
Ever since I saw Umi-chan crying in the girls' lavatory, I've only thought about what Riku could do to possibly cause her to act that way.
Part of me feels like I should butt out, because it's not my business.
But, as I watch my brother and his friends getting measured for their uniforms, I ponder to myself…
If Umi-chan IS my friend, then would I be doing a disservice in not helping her..?
..Kami only knows.
Sora leaned against a wall, eyes closed and arms crossed as his companions were trying out school wear. He could hear chatter and laughter in the background as he thought about the scene that just wouldn't leave his mind. As he focused on the previous event, a certain slick blond made a comment that snapped the young boy out of his reverie.
"I feel like I'm going to choke wearing this thing," Hayner said as he buttoned the collar of his white chemise. The brunet Akari revealed his blue orbs as his attention was now focused on the young lad before him.
"Then why don't you try a cravate? Maybe it'll shut you up," Roxas remarked as he threw a blue tie at his friend. Sora allowed a small smile to grace his face as he and Pence laughed at his brother's comment. The other blond just glared at his best friend.
"Har har says the Skateboarding Bum." Hayner paused for effect as Roxas just returned the glare the other gave him not a moment before. He then smirked as he noticed it. "Gotcha," he stated, before attempting to noose the tie around his neck. The blond Akari just shook his head as Pence bent down to tie the shoelace of his dress shoes.
"These shoes hurt. How can you stand wearing them?" the noir-haired boy asked as he looked up to meet Sora's eyes. The spiky brunet placed his hands into his pockets as he observed the pudgy young man.
"I've never really thought about it before…I guess you just get used to them," Sora replied, shrugging his shoulders. Hayner struggled to noose his tie as he examined his technique from a large mirror. He stopped for a moment to look over at Sora's twin. He narrowed his eyes as Roxas was already fully attired in schoolwear, from the chaussures that adorned his feet to the blue blazer that enclosed his upper body, the school tie hanging off of his neck. But in his casual way, the spiky blond insinuatingly left his dress shirt untucked.
"And here you are looking all spiffy. You make it look so easy," the slick Osaki said as he still fought with getting his tie affixed. Roxas walked over to where his friend stood as his hand took hold of the other's tie.
"That's because it is easy for me doofus. Here, let me show you how to knot a tie correctly," Roxas responded. As he taught his blond companion the not-so-easy task of knotting a tie, Sora stood back as he continued to reflect upon the earlier events that transpired that day.
What should I do? Should I tell Riku about it? Or…
What if he already knows? I'm pretty sure that whatever it is he did, it isn't that bad…
At least I hope so.
A knock was issued from the nearby door, interrupting Sora from his thoughts as he straightened himself. The other three boys turned their heads towards the portal.
"Come in," the other three said in unison. The door swiveled open as Mrs. Mausu stepped inside the fitting room. She smiled as she viewed each new student in their appropriate sized uniforms.
"Wow, you three look sharp. I bet the ladies will have a hard time turning their heads away," the Assistant Headmaster spouted as she stood in her business suit. Pence just scoffed as his dark-colored irises focused upon the carpet-covered floor.
"I wish," he mumbled from a barely audible standpoint. For the most part, neither his friends nor Mrs. Mausu noticed his comment, but Sora sure did. His eyebrows slightly rose in concern as he looked upon the husky young lad.
Pence…
"Does everything fit well?" Mrs. Mausu asked. The three boys nodded their heads, and a small smile emerged. "Great. I will step out for a moment so you three can change back into your regular clothes. You can take those uniforms home with you, and we'll deliver your other copies tomorrow afternoon. Lastly, I will get your schedules printed out for you, and then Akari-san here can take you home. Sound good..?"
Repetition followed. "Good. Well then, if you follow me shortly, after you've changed back into your previous garments, then we will get that settled." She was about to exit when she gazed at the other dark-haired young man within the dressing space. "Oh, and Hitotoki-san..?"
"Hai..?" Pence replied.
"Just so you know, you won't be able to wear your headband when you start school here tomorrow," Mrs. Mausu informed him. Pence's lips formed a frown as he looked away.
"Oh. Well, I understand," the noir-haired boy stated. Mrs. Mausu gave him an understanding expression, before leaving the room. Sora then turned to face the Twilight Town trio.
"Well, if you excuse me guys, I'll be outside waiting for you." Pence and the other two young gentlemen inclined their heads in understanding as they focused their attention upon him. The spiky brunet then offered them a glimpse of a smile. "Great. See you three in a few." And with that, he and Mrs. Mausu departed the room as he closed the door behind them, now leaving the two individuals in the nearby hallway. The Assistant Headmaster turned to face her charge.
"I hope those three will be able to handle this school Akari-san," the noir-haired lady said. Sora nodded his head in agreement as he closed his eyes.
"Me too Mausu-san, me too…"
"Will you guys be able to handle being here without me..?" the eldest of the Akari twins questioned as the four young men stood at his doorway, the front door slightly ajar. The three boys held different expressions upon their faces as each of them observed the marron-haired boy standing among them. Nonetheless, from Sora's point-of-view, it was slightly amusing.
"What do you think we are, fifth graders? We'll be fine," Hayner smirked, as he placed an arm around the other blond male within the group. "Right Roxas..?" His chocolate eyes gazed into Roxas' blue ones. Roxas offered his companion a chuckling smile as he looked to his twin.
"Right. Don't worry Onii-chan; we'll be all right. Promise," the spiky blond stated as he continued starring into his brother's orbs. Sora concealed them as he let out an acquiescing sigh.
"If you say so. You three have a good day then. I'll be home later this afternoon," he replied, revealing his eyes as he scanned the trio's. He then went to turn around; however, his ears perked up when he heard a voice address him.
"Sora..?"
"Yeah Pence..?" Sora reversed his body to face the smallest of the trio, whose eyes were currently focused upon the floor of the entrance. His orbs then followed upward until they made contact with the brunet's.
"Well, I was wondering…when you get back, if you could help me and Hayner search for jobs…" the raven-haired boy mentioned. Sora raised his eyebrows in confusion.
Jobs? Since when did they..?
Oh yeah, I've almost forgotten about that…I did say I would help them out, didn't I..?
The slick blond turned to look at his huskily-built companion. "Jobs..?" Pence then elbowed his friend in the stomach. Hayner clutched it in pain. "Oh yeah…now I remember. Man…" he mumbled. Sora then slightly nodded his head.
"I'll be glad to help," the brunet smiled. Pence returned his expression.
"Thanks," he said.
"No problem." Silence shortly followed, before Sora opened his mouth to speak again. "Well, if that's all, I'll be heading back to school. I'll see you three later," he said, turning his back upon them.
"Later," the trio chorused. Sora smirked as he offered them a wave, before he began to walk back towards the schoolgrounds. A few moments later, the marron-haired Akari was left to his own devices. He sighed tiredly as he placed his hands in his blazer pockets, and with a wistful expression, glanced towards the sky above him.
And now back to the topic-at-hand…
What am I going to do about Riku? I have lunch soon; and then World Literature soon after. And if I know Riku, he won't tell me what's happening between him and Umi-chan so easily.
Or maybe he will. After all, I am his best friend…
Aren't I?
Sora sighed again as he shook his head.
We'll just have to wait-and-see…and here we are…
The brunet looked ahead towards the schoolgrounds as he approached them. A few minutes later, after making his way through the courtyard, he made his way to the school dining hall. He moved through the doors as he advanced towards the lunchline.
"And what do we have today..?" he asked himself as he looked up at the menu, holding a tray in his hand.
"Maybe something good," a voice replied from Sora's right. The boy turned his head, his eyes unconsciously widening.
"Oh, hey Riku…" the spiky-haired Akari trailed off as he focused his attention back upon his tray as the lunch custodians handed him food items that he picked out. After picking a few fruits and a carton of milk, he slid his metal plate over to the cashier as his companion followed suit.
"So, are you ready for World Lit today?" the silver-haired Hakumei asked, smirking as his friend handed his payment to the cashier. The other boy closed his eyes as he filed out of the line.
"And deal with Maleficent-san..? No thank you," the blue-eyed lad responded. Riku slightly chuckled as he received his change, before the two moved together towards their table.
"I figured as much. Do you know that Tidus is still having a hard time trying to decide whether he's going to tell Selphie off or not..? I can't see why he doesn't do it," the shaggy-haired youth stated.
"Maybe he doesn't want to hurt her feelings. After all, he and Selphie are good friends…" Sora mentioned. Riku slightly inclined his head at the comment.
"Maybe. You do have a point there." Sora just shook his head as the duo approached the table.
Man, I can't believe that I almost forgot about Tidus's situation. Why does all this drama have to encompass social events…?
Speaking of which, I need to speak with Riku about Umi-chan.
"Hey guys! Take a seat, take a seat," Wakka said as his companions stood near the table. Riku offered the young man a smile as him and Sora joined him. A small chuckle emitted from the brunet's lips as he took notice of Wakka's statement.
But not right now.
"So Wakka, what's going on..?" Riku questioned, his tone of voice indicating his piqued interest. Sora smirked as he watched the rapport. Wakka just shook his head as he took a chewed on a grape.
"You should see Tidus…man, is he a wreck," he replied. Sora raised an eyebrow at the comment.
"Surely you jest Wakka," the marron-haired young man remarked. The wavy-haired Harou just shook his head.
"Man, would I joke about something like this? Seriously, Blondie's freakin' out about the whole thing. He can't figure out whether he wants to take Yuna or Selphie," Wakka said.
"Is that why he isn't here right now?" Riku asked before taking a bite of his nourriture. Wakka just shrugged.
"I guess so…that, and Shuensha-san checked him out earlier for who-knows-what…" the muscular youth sighed tiredly as he trailed off from his sentence. Sora tilted his head as he noticed his friend's expression.
"Is there something wrong Wakka..?" the brunet asked, almost hesitant at first. The tan-skinned youth turned to face the spiky-haired lad sitting before him.
"Well, sorta…it's about the Estival Hei…" he trailed off. Sora sighed in annoyance as Riku narrowed his eyes.
"Let me guess…did you ask Lulu out..?" the platinum-haired Hakumei questioned. Wakka just solemnly nodded his head. The tallest of the three closed his aquamarine orbs as he continued on. "And I take it she said no."
"Yeah, she did…" Wakka managed to choke out, as a look of melancholy spread across his face. Sora frowned as he pat his companion on the shoulder as he examined Wakka's condition.
"Well, it isn't the end of the world Wakka…maybe you'll find someone else at the Estival Hei," Sora said, trying to cheer the poor boy up. Wakka clenched his teeth as he banged his fists upon the table.
"But it's not that easy Sora! I..I love her, you know..?" The redhead sighed as he calmed down, loosing up his hands as he closed his dark-colored orbs. "I love her," he muttered, before silence came over the table. The other two young men at the table looked downward in response, before Riku looked back up to offer his friend a small smile.
"Well Wakka, maybe you'll have another chance, eventually…if you love this girl like you say you do, then it might take a little perseverance…I know. I speak from experience," the shaggy-haired lad admitted as he placed a hand upon his chest. Sora turned to look at his friend.
Well, I just learned something new today. Apparently, Riku had a harder time getting together with Umi than I previously thought.
Which made me think…why did romantic love have to be so hard..?
Maybe at this moment I had a hard time understanding…and I thought I had this whole complication down. But that would sure change.
It was only a matter of time, after all.
"So, why don't you just calm down, and try to cheer up? I'm pretty sure there are other things you can do at the Estival Hei…and if you can't get Lulu to dance with you, there are always plenty of other girls…and you can always dance with them as just a friend," Riku implied. Wakka revealed his eyes as he dimly inclined his head, taking in this tidbit of information.
"Yeah, I guess I can do that…thanks Riku," he said. Riku just offered his ami a reassuring smile.
"No prob." The depression-filled air died down as Wakka began feeling better. Sora and Riku looked to each other for a moment, before the young Harou made a choice to speak again.
"So Riku, are you looking forward to the Estival Hei? I bet Umi-chan is excited, huh?" Wakka grinned as he jabbed Riku in the side. Sora raised an eyebrow in interest as he waited to hear Riku's response. The silver-haired Hakumei kept his mouth opened for an instant, before deciding to discourse.
"..As excited as she can be," the aquamarine-eyed boy managed to spit out. Sora pressed his lips into a thin line.
Yeah, excited enough to bring tears. And as Riku began another conversation about something-or-other, I came to the realization that I really have to confront him about this…
But not now…
The sun filtered overhead as the clouds moved throughout the sky. A gentle wind bristled the air as the spiky-haired brunet leaned against a red brick bâtiment, waiting for his platinum-cheveuxed companion to emerge. He sighed depressingly as he tilted his head up towards the sky above, repeating the motions he did before when he headed back to the Academy earlier that day. He closed his azure orbs as he contemplated about what he was going to do.
I can't believe I'm going to do this…I just hope that what I'm about to say has some truth in it…
Sora's body shook as he opened his eyes again, his eyelashes battled as he blinked for a minute. He placed one hand in his pants' pocket as another held his bookbag strap. He looked to the distance as he stood within the school courtyard.
I'm pretty sure what I'll say has some fact to it…after all, I did see Umi-chan cry, didn't I..? I did hear her say Riku's name, right…?
I just need to calm down.
Sora then directed his attention to his right as the doors opened, revealing students in similar attire as they began heading home for the day. After glancing from one person to another, the marron-haired young man finally found who he was looking for as the tall, shaggy-haired Hakumei stood out among the student body. Sora straightened his posture as he strode to his companion, his mouth opening to speak as he began his speech from behind.
"You almost had me convinced you know…" Sora stated, arms crossed, continuing to walk as he began his argument. Riku turned his head in shock as his eyes regarded the one who originated that sentence. His aqua-green orbs then narrowed as he examined the smaller among the two of them.
"What are you talking about Sor..?" Riku asked as the brunet lad joined his side. The two then exited the school gates as they made their way onto the sidewalk. Sora turned to briefly look at his friend, before emitting a breath as he looked back ahead of himself.
"When I came to pick you up this morning for school, you didn't come down when Nan-san called you. And you always come down. So at first, I struck that off as being an exception. However, when I saw the state your room was in…I should've known…" the blue-eyed Akari replied. Riku raised an eyebrow.
"Should've known what…? What do you mean? What exactly are you getting at Sora?" Riku inquired. The spiky-haired lad sighed as he thought about his response, before keying it in.
"What I'm trying to say Riku, is…I should've known that something was amiss. Whenever I'm at your maison, your room is usually clean. Spick and span…but this time it wasn't. Not to mention what I overheard outside the girls' bathroom," Sora said. Riku seemed to only get more irritated by the minute as he heard his companion speak.
"..And what did you hear exactly?" the shaggy-haired young man managed to say. Sora closed his eyes for a moment, as he pictured the event in his mind.
"I heard someone crying. Only, when I went to look…it was…it was Umi-chan. She was kneeling with her back against the lavatory wall. She was crying Riku. And then you know what happened next?" Sora asked, keeping his friend in suspense. Riku seemed to brace himself for his next question.
"What..?"
"She uttered your name Riku. She was shedding tears over you," Sora accused as he opened his orbs. Riku exhaled a breath as he sagged his shoulders, closing his eyes as his bangs covered them.
"So, someone finally found out…I guess I couldn't hide it forever," Riku solemnly stated. He revealed his eyes to the world as he finished his sentence, and Sora took a moment to glance into their depths.
I couldn't help but consciously frown as I looked into Riku's eyes. They seemed so…
Despairing and downtrodden.
I knew Riku liked Umi-chan, but I never figured…
That she could affect him this much…
"It's not like you could keep it secret Riku. You're one of the most popular students in the Junior class after all," Sora mentioned. He then added, "It would've leaked out eventually." Riku sadly nodded his head as he affirmed that comment.
"You have a point there…as much I wouldn't have liked to admit it," the long-haired Hakumei said. Sora frowned for a glimpse as he slightly tilted his head.
"So…what happened…?"
"…A girl happened." Sora raised his eyebrows in shock as viewed his companion, and from the look of his expression, Riku shook his head in reaction. "Don't get the wrong impression. It's not like that," he stated.
"Then would you care to elaborate then..?" Sora inquired. Riku just inclined his head.
"…I was caught in a compromising situation with a girl. For these past two weeks, ever since school started, she was on my back," Riku began. "And I tried to tell her off…but I had a hard time being stern with her. I was about to lose my mind," he stated. When silence developed between the two, Sora just casually looked to platinum-haired youth as they continued advancing towards his house.
"Continue," the brunet prodded. Riku sighed as he closed his eyes.
"…And then one day, it happened. I was heading to the Music Room for Orchestra practice, when she surprisingly cornered me in a nearby room. I tried to get her off me, but then…" Riku shivered as his voice began to falter. "Umi came in. She saw us, and…she yelled at me. She then ran away. Ironically, it was only then that I managed to finally tell the girl off. But by then…it was already too late. I tried talking to Umi in Orchestra, but she wouldn't utter a word…I don't know what to do." Riku finished his speech as the two now made their way to Sora's lawn. They then turned to each other as they stood upon Sora's doorstep.
"I'm sorry Riku. I really am," Sora said, looking into his friend's eyes. Riku only nodded as he looked back.
"I know. Thanks." The taller boy amongst the duo then ran his fingers through his locks. "But what am I going to do? I've already tried to communicate to her through various ways: text messaging, instant messaging, e-mail, cell, and directly…and I can't think much of anything else. And I have other things I need to be focusing on. Orchestral seats will be called in four days, I need to memorize a sketch for Theatre-and let's not forget our essays in World Lit. And I would be concentrating on these things, but right now, I can't…It's just frustrating," the aquamarine-eyed boy described. He then rolled his left sleeve back a little to examine his montre. Sora noticed as he viewed his companion's arm.
"Let me guess…you need to go?" the spiky-haired Akari asked. Riku just inclined his head.
"Yeah. I would stay, but, as I just said, I got things I need to do," he responded. Sora frowned at Riku's choice of words.
"I see. Is there anything I could do to help you with Umi-chan..?" the blue-eyed young man questioned. Riku took a moment to glance at his oldest friend.
"I wish. I don't know. Maybe you could…if it couldn't get any worse. But I wouldn't bother," he stated. Sora slumped his shoulders, frowning when he heard Riku's reply.
"But she can't avoid you forever Riku. One of these days you two will have to talk it out," the brunet said plainly. Riku's lips became set in a thin line at his companion's remark.
"I know. And believe me; I'm not looking forward to that when the time comes." Silence enveloped the two again as Riku looked down at his watch. "Well Sora, I hope you have a good day. As for me, I'm going home...and I'm going to try to get my mind off of Umi," Riku said admittedly. Sora nodded his head in understanding.
"And as for me, well…I got to help Pence and Hayner get jobs…but I'll see what I can do about Umi-chan."
"If there's anything you can do…I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks." The taller lad offered the smaller one a grateful smile.
"Anytime." The two friends then began to part as Riku walked down the front steps and back onto the walking path.
I wonder…
"Hey Riku!" Sora exclaimed. Riku stopped moving so he could look back at the marron-haired individual still standing at his home entrance.
"What…?" he asked. Sora's visage set into a straight look as he focused upon his companion's.
"Just who was the girl who was hitting on you anyway..? If you don't mind me asking," he said, scratching the back of his head. Riku frowned at the question, and turned to look away. A gentle breeze rustled his bangs as he looked toward the homes across the street.
"Her name was Yuffie…Yuffie Kisaragi…"
…Well, at least I know what going's on between Riku and Umi…
But is there anything that I can do about it..? I have no idea…
This sucks.
"So, I was thinking that maybe I'd apply here tomorrow. What do you think..?" a noir-haired boy asked, pointing to an object on a laptop screen as he sat next to his spiky brunet companion. Sora snapped out of his trance as he shook his head.
"Huh?" he muttered. Pence sighed irritably as he prepared to repeat himself.
"I was saying I was going to apply to this store tomorrow. What are your thoughts on it? Could you see me working there..?" Pence asked. Sora's blue eyes glanced to the screen nearby, before they refocused upon Pence's irises.
"Yeah, maybe…do you think you'll like working there?" the marron-haired young man questioned. Pence scratched his chin as his eyes closed.
"I think so. I just hope I can get a job," he replied sullenly. As he opened his eyes, Sora offered him a reassuring smile as he gave the boy a comforting hand.
"Don't worry about it. As long as you're kind and presentable enough, I think you may have a shot," Sora stated.
"Presentable enough..?" Pence mumbled apprehensively. Sora just nodded his head.
"I took an Occupation Course during my early years in the Academy. In this class, I learned that a clean appearance can do wonders for job offers," Sora indicated with a finger, and then added, "But of course, I haven't really gotten a 'job' yet. I make munny from selling my artwork."
"Lucky you then." Both Sora and Pence looked up from the computer screen as Hayner stood in front of them. Sora raised an eyebrow as he examined the slick blond.
"What's up Hayner?" Sora inquired. The young Osaki just shrugged his shoulders.
"Nothing much…I was just wondering when we were going to have dinner," he replied. Sora glanced to Pence for a bit.
"Well, we could have it now I guess…are we good here Pence?" the brunet questioned. Pence nodded his head.
"Yeah, I think we're good." Sora just smiled.
"Great." He then shut his notebook computer as he placed it beside him on the couch. "So, what are you in the mood for..?"
"Barbeque," the blond Akari responded as he sat at the piano, examining the sheet music that was currently placed there. Sora looked back from his brother to his other two companions.
"Does everyone agree with that..?" he asked. Both Hayner and Pence nodded their heads eagerly. The spiky-brunet chuckled at their reply. "Well then, if you three can help gather materials, we can eat outside on the back porch." Sora and Pence got up from their seats, and, along with Hayner and Roxas, went into the kitchen to grab the necessary materials: paper plates; utensils; hamburger and hot dog buns; ketchup and mustard; hot dog wieners and hamburger beef; two liter containers filled with soda; napkins plastic cups; and an ice tray for their drinks.
Afterwards, the Twilight Town trio then joined Sora outside, walking onto the patio as they assorted their materials on a nice, glass table with a towering, green umbrella above to help shade the four from the onslaught of the sun. After opening and heating up the grill, Sora smiled as he began cooking the meat, while the other three observed the sea, all-the-while taking sips of soda from their plastic containers. The brunet Akari soon followed suit as he filled a cup with an assorted drink, before walking to stand to his brother's left as they looked out towards the ocean, the waves quietly pulling in as the water shimmered.
"You got a very nice setup out here," Hayner commented as he partook with his soda. The other two lads just nodded in agreement as Sora smirked.
"Arigato." The wind tousled the four's hair as they continued viewing the picturesque moment. Sora took a sip of his cola before he opened his mouth to speak. "So, you three ready to start school tomorrow..?" he asked. The three quickly shook their heads, causing the boy to emit a laugh.
"Not especially. But we have to, right..?" Roxas said as he looked to his twin. Sora just sternly inclined his head.
"Yeah." He then turned to look back towards the night-colored grill. "Well, I'm going to check on the food." Roxas lifted a hand in the "stop" position.
"Don't worry about it. I'll do it," the spiky-blond stated, before he began to make his way over the cooking device. Sora quirked an eyebrow as he observed his brethren.
"Do you know how to operate a grill?" his twin questioned. Roxas nodded his head as he turned the hot dog wieners on their sides, before flipping the hamburger patties on their opposite sides. He then closed the grill.
"Ojisan Kuruma taught me. During the summer, we'd usually do things like this outside in the jardin. We'd cook hot dogs, hamburgers, and fries. And we'd also eat watermelon from time-to-time," Roxas answered as his azure orbs looked to their brother's. Sora just smiled as Roxas returned to stand beside him.
"I see. Sounds nice," the spiky-haired lad commented. A hint of a smile appeared on Roxas's visage as he leaned against the porch railing.
"It was." Peaceful tranquility then occurred as the quartet each stood reflecting upon the day. The wind gently bristled their clothing as a pair of seagulls flew by overhead. The sun stilled towards the center of the ciel as the clouds slowly inched across the horizon.
I just loved moments like these. Nice, peaceful…when the world seems to be at ease…
A part of me wishes that every moment could be like this…
But again, that is just wishful thinking. But its times like these…
When you learn to cherish what's precious to you. And what's precious to me is…
My friends and family.
And I'm happy to say I wouldn't be anywhere else in the world at this point in time.
Sora smiled, his irises closed as he let the outside air play with his hair. After delighting in solace for a minute, he opened his eyes as the turned towards his friends. "Well, I think the food's ready now. I'll handle the food. You three can take a seat and eat," he instructed. Hayner followed the brunet's expression after he heard that sentence.
"About time. I'm starving," he said as his other two friends nodded their heads. The trio then sat down at the patio table as Sora opened the grill, placing the assorted meat between their appropriate buns. He then placed the hamburgers and hot dogs down, before joining his brother's side.
"Let's eat."
"Reality show, reality show, reality show…where are all the good shows…?"
Hayner groaned with annoyance as he flipped the channels on the residential flat screen. The TV shimmered with digital signal as the slick-spiky blond changed the channel with the universal remote. Pence just stayed silent as Roxas's eyes darted to his comrade.
"You do know this is the summer right..? Most of the good shows won't return until the fall. Don't you know anything?" remarked the other blond. Chocolate eyes glared at sky blue.
"I so hate you right now Roxas."
"Noted."
"Guys." Pence closed his orbs, sitting bored on the couch. Sora sat on the nearby loveseat, leaning back as he and his friends regarded the different images on the screen. He irritably sighed as he turned to Hayner.
"Hayner, could you pick a channel to stay on please? I feel like I'm going to have an epileptic seizure here from seeing all the colors," the spiky-brunet said as the looked back to the screen on the téléviseur. Hayner glanced to the head of the household.
"And for a minute I thought you were a 'no sense' man. You're more like your brother than I give you credit for," stated the Osaki youth. Both of the Akari twins glanced to each other for a moment, before switching their focus back onto the current matter-at-hand.
"That's great. Now, can you please pick a channel?" Roxas questioned. Hayner gnashed his teeth together as he conceited defeat.
"Fine. How about…the Voyager's Channel…?" The slick blond placed the remote down on the left arm of the canapé as the four boys viewed the process of chocolate making. A moment later, a sound resounded from outside the walls of the maison. The quartet stayed seated, until the sound repeated itself.
"Are you going to get that?" Hayner asked, looking to Sora. The marron-haired young man leaned forward as he left his piece of furniture.
"Yeah, yeah…" The brunet sloppily made his way to the front door, before straightening his posture to twist the doorknob to the right. The porte swayed open to reveal a certain auburn haired young lady, adorned in a dark blue golf shirt, a light colored skirt, and brown sandals. She had her hands placed behind her back as her violet eyes gazed into Sora's.
"Hi Sora," Kairi smiled, bearing her pearly white dents for the young man to see. Pink tinted his cheeks as his blue eyes surveyed the young girl.
"Uh, hi Kairi…what's up?" Sora nervously scratched his head.
"Well, I was in the neighborhood, and I was wondering if you'd like to go for a walk…you know, just to chat. You don't have to if you don't want to," Kairi said, sadly with the last part as she brushed her bangs away from her visage. The boy offered her a reassuring smile to cheer her up.
"I'd love to. Could you give me a minute?" The young woman smiled as she inclined her head. Sora tilted his lips upwards. "Great. See you in a few."
"See ya." The brunet softly shut the door as he made his way back into the living room, going by the loveseat to grab his black pair of sandals. The other three lads swayed their heads towards him.
"Where are you going?" Roxas asked. Sora briefly looked at his twin as he was strapping his sandals on.
"Out for a walk. I'll be back in maybe an hour maybe…or more. Will you guys be okay here?" the other Akari inquired. Pence opened his eyes at the mention of "walk."
"With whom..?" the noir haired lad asked. Sora grinned as he placed his hands in his short's pockets.
"A friend…so, will you guys be all right?" the marron-haired youth questioned. Hayner raised an eyebrow at the other's previous expression.
"Must be some friend…a girl perhaps?"
"Perhaps." The trio looked to one another for a moment, before gazing back to Sora.
"Yeah, we'll be fine. Go have fun with your girlfriend," Hayner smirked. Sora grimaced in response.
"She's not my girlfriend. Only a friend," he responded.
"Whatever." Sora got up and advanced back to the entrance of the house.
"See you guys later," he waved.
"Later," the three stated in unison. Sora grinned as he opened the door, Kairi smiling at him as he stepped outside. He shut the door behind him before he turned to face her.
"Sorry you had to wait. Ready to go..?" he asked.
"Yep." The two then descended down the brick steps before hitting the driveway, strolling to the sidewalk. Sora glanced at Kairi as they began their promenade.
"So, how has your day been?"
"Okay. Naminé and I missed you after you left," Kairi mentioned as she looked to Sora as he was focused ahead. He looked back to her as her eyes darted away from his gaze.
"Well, I'm sorry I had to leave. Let's just say, I had something to take care of. You'll see what I mean tomorrow," Sora replied. Kairi narrowed her eyebrows as she blinked her eyelashes.
"Uh, right…so…"
"So…" The two turned to face each other as they stood upon the slabs of concrete. The air around them was beginning to cool, as the sky was beginning to dim above them, the sun beginning to slowly settle among the backdrop. Blue and violet orbs met. Sora slightly chuckled before he decided to parley. "So…was there a certain reason you wanted to bring me out here..?" he inquired, arching an eyebrow in question. Kairi curtly nodded her head in response.
"I was wondering if I could get some advice…because well…" the redhead sullenly looked down towards the grey surface of the huge tile the two's feet were standing upon. Sora tilted his head in curiosity.
"What is it?" he piped. The girl quickly looked back up to his face.
"It's Selphie…you remember, the light brown-haired girl you saw the first day we met?" Sora nodded his head in answer. Kairi then continued speaking. "She's having trouble with her stepfather. Or the lack thereof. Can we continue walking?" she asked. The spiky-brunet inclined his head, and together, the two resumed their march down the street. The auburn haired young lady put on a sad smile as her lips widened to speak. "To start this off, could you promise to keep this in confidence?" she questioned.
"Of course," Sora replied. Kairi gave him a brief smile before continuing where she left off.
"Great. Anyways, Selphie, my best female companion since I was five, used to be known as Selphie Telmitt. Her mother was a burgeoning scientist, while her father had a top position at some electronics company. Back then, things were good…and, her father loved her. I remember how she would always smile whenever he was around, and how she would always run to him when she needed him. And life was great for her. Until…
"Until sixth grade. One day, we took the bus home from school, and when we went to her house…we found her father sleeping with another woman. Her mother was at work that day, while her father had some work to do at 'the office'…but we soon learned it was a different type of work. And, like any other person would do when they saw their parent having an affair, Selphie became angry. And she wanted to tell her mother," Kairi choked out, with her male companion frowning at her current mood. He placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"Kairi…"
"But she didn't. Her father wouldn't let her. He wouldn't let her because he threatened that he would beat her if she did. And…he threatened me as well," she cried, tears beginning to stream down her face. She wiped them as a frown appeared on her lips. "I never forgot that day. There are still times when I can imagine him in my mind…and for two years, we did nothing, in fear of being struck…"
"And then what happened?" Sora calmly questioned. When the young Akari had placed his hand upon the girl's shoulder, the two had stopped walking. They then resumed advancing on the concrete path.
"Her mother caught him cheating when she came home early to surprise him one day…and that was the end of the Telmitt family. Selphie's parents divorced, and Selphie's father ended up having a baby with that whore," Kairi replied angrily. Sora tilted his head as he continued staring at her. "We ended up finding out that he left her by the way."
"What a jerk," the marron-haired lad commented. The dark headed young woman nodded her head in agreement.
"That he was…Selphie was…fatherless. And it was the end of eighth grade. And then her mother met Shikikawa-san. Shikikawa-san was a luxury boat designer, and his daughter, Olette, the dark-headed brunette you saw, was motherless since her birth. And the two had hit it off after a meeting at a parent-teacher's conference. They soon married, and Selphie and Olette became stepsisters.
"Shikikawa-san seemed kind enough. Or so it seems. But Selphie has told me that every time she's tried to have him involved in her life, he's avoided her. Meanwhile, he would give all his time to Olette when she needed him. It's not fair to her," she mumbled sadly. Sora just shook his head as he concurred with her statement.
How can this happen..? Selphie…I never would've figured from everything I've heard about her.
Maybe…maybe that's why she-
"Kairi..?"
"Hai…?" The girl turned to examine the young man as they reached the entrance of a park. On the entrance sign were the words Kouhai Alcove Park. The two stood to the side as they observed each other. Sora furrowed his eyebrows as he focused his attention upon the young woman in front of him, ignoring all of the foliage that surrounded them.
"Do you know Tidus Shuensha by any chance..?" he asked. His eyebrows rose when she nodded her head. "Let me guess…has Selphie been telling you that she's been trying to get him to take her to the Estival Hei at all?" he questioned. Kairi shook her head.
"No. She never mentioned any of that to me," she said. Sora scratched his chin as the two began picking up the pace again.
"Well then, I think her…adamant behavior towards getting Tidus to go with her could have some relation to her problem with her stepdad…after all, from what I remembering Tidus-kun telling me, he said that they were best friends, so…"
"So you think Selphie's trying to seek comfort from a male figure in the form of Tidus…?" Kairi questioned.
"Well, maybe…he could be the only male around who's been stable in her life as she sees it…it could also explain why she could be so 'attached' to him…or, at least that's what I think from the way Tidus described her. But there is one problem…" Sora trailed off. The auburn haired Herutsu tilted her head in curiosity as she viewed her light-brown haired companion.
"And what would that be?" she inquired. Sora sighed as they reached a Japanese style bridge, resting over a calm stream. They both leaned against it, and Sora closed his eyes while doing so.
"If Selphie actually does have any intimate feelings for Tidus, then she may be looking for disaster…" the water slightly rippled underneath the two as they rested upon the man-made structure.
"He doesn't return her feelings..?" Kairi asked. Sora frowned in reply.
"No, no he does not." Silence filled the air as the two looked towards the setting sun as it filtered through the clouds. Kairi raised her eyebrows as she took all of this new information in, processing it before formulating a response.
"Well, with all this new info, I don't exactly know what to do. Do you think I should tell her?" she turned to him. Sora's mouth gaped open as he struggled to think of an answer.
Do I think she should tell Selphie how Tidus-kun feels about her..? I don't know. Part of me thinks it would be better if she heard it from the horse's mouth…but maybe she'd be better off if she heard it from a friend…
Why do relationships have to be so complicated? Why can't they ever be simple?
I'm glad my relationships aren't this complex. At least for right now, anyways…
Hn...
"Well maybe…maybe you should. I guess all you can do is to try your best to comfort her…maybe you should tell her to get her mother to confront her stepfather…I don't know," the brunet muttered. Kairi frowned at her friend's statement.
"Well at least you're coming up with ideas…I'm having a hard time brainstorming as is," she said. The boy gave her an apologetic look.
"I'm sorry." The girl gave him a smile in return.
"Don't worry. It isn't your fault." Uncomfortable quietness fell between the couple as they both continued visioning the orange-red star before them. After what felt like at eternity, Sora turned to face Kairi.
"So, maybe we should call it an evening? It's beginning to get late," Sora mentioned as he viewed the scenery. Kairi gently nodded her head.
"That it is." She then moved her head to see her marron-haired ami. "Let's go." Sora's blue irises directed toward her violet ones.
"All right." The two then walked beside each other as they began making their way back towards Sora's house. By the time they reached Sora's doorway, nightfall had begun to touch the city of Kouhai, as stars began twinkling in the sky above. Kairi then turned to face Sora.
"Well, thanks for the ideas…I'm sleeping over at Selphie's tonight. You see that red voiture over there?" she asked, pointing to a sleek, cherry red convertible that was parked on the curb, in front of the house to Sora's left. The spiky lad inclined his tête.
"Yeah?" he mumbled.
"That's my car. My stuff's inside it, just in case you were wondering…"
"Oh. Yes…" the two then stood at the doorstep sheepishly, Kairi looking down at her toes while Sora nervously scratched the back of his hair. Kairi then offered the young man a smile as she looked up to him.
"Well, thanks for taking the afternoon to talk to me Sora. You were a great help," she said, as her purple-colored eyes pierced his azure ones. The brunet returned her smile with a humbling counterpart.
"Oh, it was nothing. I just hope that everything works out with Selphie," he stated. Kairi nodded her head in agreement.
"Me too. Well, goodnight," she said, slightly bowing. Sora returned her bow.
"Goodnight Kairi," he replied. Kairi's smile then retreated, and with a slow step, the girl began leaving the young boy behind as he stood there, staring at her disappearing back as she inched closer to her car.
Well, it looks like I'm not the only one with problems…it seems Kairi has her share too…
But something baffles me…if Kairi is Selphie's best friend, then why hasn't she told her about Tidus?
I guess it could've been the same reason Riku didn't tell me about his problems with Umi-chan…
Anyways…
Sora twisted the doorknob open as he set foot inside his home. As he closed the door, he noticed that the Twilight Town trio was right in front of him. He arched an eyebrow in question as he examined the three.
"What's goin' on guys..?" he questioned.
"Dude, that girl is hot. Are you sure she's not your girlfriend…?" Hayner asked. The spiky brunet exhaled some air as he narrowed his eyes at the slick lad.
"I'm certain she's not my girlfriend…"
"Then does she have any friends you could refer me to..? 'Cause I need a girlfriend," Hayner answered. Sora emitted another sigh.
"We've only been friends for about a week, so no. Any other questions..?" Silence emerged from the trio. "Great. Then I'm going up to get ready for bed. Don't stay up too late. We got school tomorrow," Sora instructed, raising a finger at his sentence.
"Yeah, we know, Dad," Roxas muttered as he sarcastically looked away from his brother. Sora just smirked as he looked to the spiky blond.
"Good. Well then you three, goodnight," he said.
"Goodnight."
I got so many things I have to deal with now…Tidus's feelings for Selphie…and her feelings for him…as well as Umi and Riku's predicament.
But why do I feel like I'm also forgetting something else..?
The night air traveled through the brunet's hair as he stood in his pajamas, leaning on the balcony outside his room, observing the stars. His eyes then widened as he tilted his head downwards.
Oh yeah…I have an art exhibition at the Academy next week. And I don't have many paintings to display…crap.
I got so many things to think about…
And little time to do things about them…
Why does life have to be so hard at times..?
"Kairi…" Sora uttered her name as he looked up towards the heavens. They shimmered back at the young man in response.
I hope she feels better. Because the last thing I want to see is her crying.
I just hope everything works out…
Before they congregate into something that's harder to solve.
Well, we finally found out what was wrong with Umi and Riku! So Yuffie is involved in the couple's predicament! And Selphie's problem appears to be more than it seemed. How will Sora and Kairi deal with these dilemmas? And what will happen when the Twilight Town boys begin attending the Academy..? All this and more will be answered in the next chapter!!
For a moment, I thought I wouldn't have enough length in the scenes to constitute this chapter into being. Glad I was proven wrong.
I had a hard time coming up with the title of this chapter; that was, until I got to the part of the scene where Sora and Kairi were talking on the bridge. Kouhai Alcove Park was mentioned for a reason, and that reason will resurface…in chapters from now. Eventually…It's only a matter of time.
I also hoped I provided enough "fluff" for all you Sokai junkies out there in this chapter…oh, and don't worry, she'll be in the next chapter as well. She might start be in every chapter on a regular basis…so yoohoo!
Well, now that I'm done with this chapter, I'm going to get to complete the first chapter of my mini-Namixas, What Happens After Next? So I can post it…sometime within either this or the next week. Then I'll get to work on Chapter Nine of this fic. I bet a good bit of you are imagining what MIGHT happen in the next entry. You'll find out...in a couple of weeks, so please be patient until then.
I also have an idea for my next multi-Sokai…but I probably won't make it a reality UNTIL I finish this fic. This fic is my…pride and joy, I guess. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I love writing it.
And so now, we reach Recommended Read #7, which will be "REWRITE" by Maiwyn Hearts, a Namixas of course. This fic is a story about a boy…and a girl. Blonde girl (Naminé of course) has a popular auburn haired sister, and feels unnoticed…that is, until she meets a certain blond haired, blue eyed, music-playing boy we all know and root for. How Roxas has an impact on Naminé's life, and her on his…you have to read to find out…
Well guys, that's all for this week. Review please as always, and until the next chapter, adieu!- Malcolm Yuy