A/N: I feel so bad for not uploading in such a long time! But, chapter 12 is finally here… after much anticipation. Honestly, I was thinking of killing this off… but I figured I would type a little more and see how people react. If I don't get a lot of reviews- then this story is probably going down the crapper. But… we will see!

So, my apologies for the wait- but here it is!

Chapter 12: Comfort

Fear was overtaking me as my eyes traced the lethal curve of the knife.

"Would you like to… rethink… your answer?" she crooned, running the knife along my cheek.

I stayed silent. I was trying to be brave. Did this count?

She then held the knife to my neck.

"Apologize."

I was numb. I hardly felt the serrated edge of the blade against my throat. But I DID feel the fear that was consuming my core.

"No." I looked her straight in the eyes, pushing my fear away. It was such a simple word… but it was so powerful.

She screamed and lifted the knife, bringing it down just as quick.

I closed my eyes, bracing for the pain that I knew was going to come.

But there was nothing.

She had stabbed the knife into the wall, just inches from my head.

She collapsed on the floor, her body racked with sobs. Was I supposed to comfort her?

After a long hesitation I finally said, "… I-I'm sorry that the money was fake, mother…" I shakily patted her on the back, but she swatted me away.

"I know…"

xXx

The next day, I felt like a huge weight had been lifted off my chest.

I had been brave- I had stood up to my mother… I even had to comfort her. It made me feel empowered.

But why had she let me go? Why did she start crying?

I guess I would never know.

xXx

At school, Kairi was waiting for me again.

"Sora!" she ran up and hugged me, and I smelled her sweet scent.

"Hey…" I heard Axel mumble.

"Hey you guys." I said, feeling a little out of place.

Kairi then broke away from our hug, and looked me in the eyes.

"You're not mad anymore?" she asked.

"Why would I be mad?"

"Well… I was being kind of nosy. I shouldn't have bugged you."

"It's fine Kairi, I'm just glad that we're all friends again!" I beamed at her.

She smiled back.

A/N: well there you go... I know it's really short- but don't worry- chapter 13 is longer and on its way A.S.A.P!