~Sunday December 12th~

~Zexion Shiki~

My phone vibrates on my bedside table and I roll over just in time to grab it before it falls to the floor. Sleep clouds my eyes as I check the time – 3:00AM. A groan slips past my lips as I glare up at the ceiling, angry at whoever dared to wake me up. I bring the phone back up to my face and click to open the message, only just realizing that it's from Axel. I reread the short text several times and every time I come to the same conclusion.

This 'man' is a moron.

Even so I climb out of bed, stretch, and amble about to find clothes to wear. He has to be the only person that would dare to ask me to go to the park at an ungodly hour. Then again… besides him, no one really talks to me other than an occasional message from my friend from high school. Either way I make sure to at least make myself decent, even if it's pulling on the same pants and shirt from the day before. I run out of the house while stuffing my keys and wallet into my pockets only to regret not going and buying warmer clothes last week.

Snow falls down relentlessly; coating the roads, sidewalks – everything. But that's not what causes me to question why I'm going in the first place. As I take the short walk down the street, cross to the other side, and take a right – I think I've lost my mind. I've never had feelings like these for anyone. That undeniable urge to be with someone no matter what they put me through or what stands in our way. These feelings only seem to harden my resolve to see Axel again – Guardian Angel or not.

…Because I think I've fallen in love with him.

My boots crunch through the snow as I near the tree I had met him by once before. But as I do I can only freeze in my steps. My cheeks colored by the cold now turn red with anger. Even though those feelings tell me I still love him, I can't help but feel betrayed in a sense of the word. It makes me wonder; is this where he's been? Is this who he's been with? Some other boy he's been 'watching' over?

Axel's face tilts towards my direction, but the pale hands holding his face force him to look back at the owner of said hands. The blond sitting atop him on the bench leans over Axel while Axel's hands are at the boy's waist. Whether they're pulling the blond closer or pushing him apart I don't stay to find out.

I turn. And run.

The frigid air burns my lungs, but I can't stop running. I ache to get home and curl back up in my bed. For all I know I could have dreamt this up. But as I trip and drop to my knees I realize it's not. The pain shoots up my leg even more as I push myself to stand and continue. My chest constricts and heaves heavily, forcing me to seek shelter under the overhang of a nearby alley. The buildings, sitting close together, give me some breathing room from the snow.

I don't even have time to move as Marluxia suddenly appears in front of me. He reaches out for me and I don't have enough energy to dart away. His fingers wrap around my wrist and almost instantly I can feel the pinpricks all over my arm. The slight pain stays hidden as I can't even cry out, my throat raw and my pants too heavy. The demon leans in close, his breath hot and smelling of sulfur.

"I told you did I not? Not even an angel servant of the most high God wants anything to do with you. You're disgusting, pitiful, and weak. There's only one thing that can save you now Zexion. Why can't you see that?"

My eyes narrow at him even as I cast my gaze to the ground. I can't look directly at him. I'm afraid; disgusting, pitiful, and weak just as he said. Even still he leans closer, making sure his words crawl over my skin and strangle the fight out of me.

"I can make all the hurt go away. I can make it all better in just an instant."

Paralyzed with fear, I try my best not to show it. But he knows and I know he does. My mind begs to give into this evil being, but my heart and soul beg me to stay strong. This too shall pass… I just… have to not give in. I can't let this demon take another soul – my soul.

The sound of a vehicle pulls me out of the trance he had put me under. I snap my eyes upward to see nothing but the wall of the building in front of me. I take that opportunity to run the rest of the way home and this time I don't stop until I'm inside; slamming the door shut and leaning against it. But just as I'm about to take a calming breath a knock resounds against the wood. It causes my body to tremble; the knocks coming again and again – urgent. My mind tells me to open, that it could be Axel coming for me. But my heart screams at me to lock the door and go hide.

I don't trust my heart or my gut. I open the door and instantly regret doing so. It's not the boy's appearance that startles me. He dresses in a pair of baggy, dark jeans that are tattered at the ends and he wears no shoes. His white shirt with the red collar doesn't move as he stares at me – indicating that he's not even breathing. His blond, spiky hair swoops upward as well as down into his face. It's not even the deathly pale skin or the dark circles under his eyes – it's those disturbingly bright blue eyes.

They remind me of Sora.

That is until the blue melts into an inky black. I try to take a step back and I end up tripping over my own feet, sending myself to the floor. Lying on my back I don't have a chance to get up as he sits atop me. Fingers reach forward and wrap around my throat as he glares at me. I choke while trying to take a breath, trying to ask him why.

I don't understand…

"I thought you were smart. Isn't it obvious that I'm here for your soul?"

Despite the lack of oxygen, my mind runs at a mile a minute. This boy, that reminds me so much of Sora, is just like Marluxia; A demon. Although Marluxia is less direct, he'd rather oppress me and feed off of the negativity. This demon is direct. He'll kill and I wouldn't put it past him to possess me if he has enough strength. But I won't give him that option. I'll fight. Yet as I reach my arms up I can't touch him. My vision begins to grow hazy and his form begins to turn transparent – whether that's do to me growing unconscious or him losing power, I'm not entirely sure. I try not to blink again, tears and darkness beading at the corners of my eyes, as I glare at him.

"Roxas, stop!"

The yell shocks my senses just as much as the light I can see through the slightly transparent boy. I watch, as if in slow motion, as the weapon spins forward – flung from Axel's grasp. It twirls majestically until it slams into Roxas' shoulder, the blades burrowing all the way through. I can see the end of two spikes as black drips down the spike and onto my jacket. But just as it hits the material it evaporates. Roxas lets me go and grabs for the bladed wheel stuck in his shoulder – vanishing completely from my sight. Before I can even sit up Axel is running out the door as well, shutting it behind him as he goes.

And I'm left lying on the ground, staring up at the ceiling wondering what in world just happened.

Roxas… Why does that name sound so familiar?

~ Squall Leonhart~

I glance at the clock, counting the seconds until Vincent should be arriving. Zack had to get to work early, but assured he'd pick me up from my 'father's' house later. I shake my head at the thought. My whole life I've had to live with that man, Hojo, only to come to know that it could have been so much better.

But I wouldn't have met Zack.

A knock on the door propels me off the couch and to the door. I stuff my phone into the pocket of my black jacket. Opening the door, I try to resist the urge to slam it shut. Standing on the doorstep is none other than Hojo himself. He looks the same as always; disheveled and crazy. Over the rim of his glasses he glares at me. "Why haven't you come home, boy?"

I force myself not to sigh. "I moved out, if you don't remember." From the back of my mind I can vaguely sense Sephiroth's presence, guessing that this is all his doing. "If you don't leave, I'll-"

"I own you boy! Now get out here." He reaches for me but freezes at the sound of a car pulling up at the curb. Spinning around he only glares at Vincent, who in turn glares at him.

The dark haired man dresses in a suit that I assume is for work; dark navy jacket, tie, and pants with a white button up shirt underneath. Vincent says nothing to him, merely speaks around him. "Are you ready to go?" I nod and step outside, shutting the locked door behind me. As I walk around Hojo he tries to grab for me once again. But once again Vincent is one step ahead of him. Latching onto my wrist, Vincent yanks me behind him and holds his jacket open. Whatever he showed Hojo causes the older man to back away seething. Vincent keeps his eyes on Hojo, "Go get in the car."

I do as I'm told and retreat to his car. Sitting in the passenger seat I look outward towards the two. I can only assume that Vincent is the one doing the talking for I can't hear anything – only see Hojo's expression turn to shock. Immediately I cast my eyes downward as Vincent turns, heading for the car. Even as he starts the car and we're moving down the street it stays silent. I glance towards him to see his jacket pushed back and notice the gun holstered to his hip.

He seems to notice my eyes, "I'm a detective. I was there at the robbery where you work."

I raise an eyebrow at him in return. "So you went through some loop holes and found out where I live?"

A small smile curves his lips. "No, I just asked Zack."

I can feel the slight heat on my cheeks and I retreat back to staring out the window. Still, questions eat at me. I want to know what he said to Hojo more than anything. But I say nothing, not even as we arrive in a quiet little neighborhood of one-story, cookie-cutter houses. All the lawns are mowed and decorated with small trees, bushes, and flowers. Nice cars are parked in every driveway; including the one Vincent pulls up outside of. As he turns the car off I take it as my cue to get out and begin to follow him to the front door. Just as he reaches for the door I speak up. "Do you know a detective named Cloud?"

He glances at me over his shoulder, crimson eyes curious about my question. He thinks for a moment before replying. "No, the name doesn't sound familiar. I do know most in the city if you'd like me to ask around."

I bow my head, "No it's not important."

"If you say so…" Vincent flips through his keys just as a car pulls up behind his. He doesn't look so I take it upon myself to. As I do I see Zack climbing out of his car and jogging up to us. Putting away his keys, Vincent half turns to him while opening the door. "I see you forgot what time to show up."

He rubs at the back of his head. "Well I got finished up early. Figured it's better to be early than late right?"

Standing between the two of them I wait for silence to fall once more. Thankfully it does as Vincent sighs, leading us into the house. Taking us into the spacious living room with couches and chairs around a coffee table, he glances around. "Dad, we're here."

An older man walks around the corner of the kitchen from behind us. His eyes are a murky red and his medium black-gray hair goes down to his shoulders. A red ascot hangs over his simple black shirt. He wears a long trench coat and thick black pants tucked into heavy looking boots – making it apparent that he must have been out back.

He approaches us and claps a hand onto Vincent's shoulder, "As punctual as ever." Slowly he turns to me and I can see his eyes become glossy, tears evident even though he seems to hold them back. "My name is Grimoire. You must be Squall. You look so much like your mother." The hand on Vincent's shoulder falls off to reach towards me, but he hesitates and brings it back to his side. "I'm sorry I couldn't find you sooner. Hojo was very thorough in making sure I didn't."

Looking me over, he's distracted by the dark haired man standing behind me. "Ah, and who is this young man?"

Vincent is quick to try and interrupt Zack from opening his mouth, weary of whatever comes out since I assume they've worked together before. "He's just someone from work, stopping by." He raises an eyebrow at Zack, "You were just leaving weren't you Zack?"

Determined to win Vincent over, as well as Grimoire, I watch as Zack steps forward and wraps an arm around my waist. "You're half right~ I'm actually dating Squall here. He lives with me now."

Grimoire idles for a moment before giving Zack a smile, "Well, then you have my thanks for getting him away from Hojo. Come and sit down."

The arm slips away from my waist as Vincent and his – our – father move to sit. I sit in between Vincent and Zack while Grimoire chooses a recliner. Even as we sit, Zack holds my hand. He doesn't realize that it only makes my heart beat that much faster.

A couple, maybe more, hours later I'm walking out the door. I can't be more pleased. Grimoire was sure to make me feel like a son while accepting that I should come to it in time – It's a change. Nonetheless he quickly accepted Zack despite us really having no solid relationship label; as much as Zack pushed it. I can take a hint.

None of that really mattered. What did was all that was said about my mother. I learned so much of her in such a short time that I almost find it hard to comprehend. I had no idea she was a scientist; working alongside not only Grimoire but Hojo as well. I didn't know that Hojo had taken advantage of Grimoire getting hurt during an experiment and taking a temporary leave. Hojo had swooped in and threatened her; with what no one is sure. Grimoire had said the next thing he knew her things were gone from their house and so was she, pregnant. He then told me that they both withdrew from that project as well as the company – moving to a different one where he then lost track of them and their whereabouts. Either way he had regretted not being able to stop it from happening.

Sliding into the passenger seat of Zack's car, I'm at ease – at peace with everything. Nothing seems dark and depressing anymore; save for the threat of Sephiroth. But even that disappears from my mind as Zack leans over the console, tugging my face toward his direction. Our lips crash together and after a long moment he pulls away.

"You know…I think – Nah, I know I do. I love you."

"Moron… just drive," I say as I immediately turn my attention out the window – hiding the blush on my cheeks. Zack simply laughs as he starts the car, accepting my response for what it is.

~Sora Kaze~

"Hey Sora, what do ya say about coming out to this place my playing at tonight?"

"Did you ask the others too?"

"Nah, Zexion won't pick up and Squall gives me the willies." Demyx laughs, "And he said he had something to do."

I smile even though Demyx can't see it, moving to the bed as I readjust the phone against my ear. "Sure, mind if I bring someone?"

"The more the merrier! Be there at eight. It's downtown at the restaurant, Fantasia."

"See you then!"

The line goes dead and I bring the phone down to search for Riku's number. I don't care that Larxene makes her presence known – footfalls echoing throughout the kitchen. I simply keep doing what I'm doing. Bringing the phone back up to my ear, I wait for Riku to pick.

"Hello? Sora, what's wrong?"

I laugh softly, "Nothing's wrong. I wanted to know if you'd like to go out. My friend invited me to a place he's playing at tonight."

Riku seems to debate it, "Hold on." I can hear him as he holds the phone while walking out of his room – the door opening rather loudly. The muffled sounds of a conversation barely reach me until Riku seems to put the phone back up to his ear. "Sure, I'll pick you-"

"I'll just meet you there. It's at Fantasia. I'll meet you there at eight."

I hang up the phone before he can argue with me. I know he wants more than anything to stay by my side every waking – and sleeping – hour. But I think I can manage to grab a cab and get downtown without any problems. In the back of my mind I doubt that thought.

To say Demyx is a wonderful musician would be an understatement. He wowed everyone and then some. I almost wish he didn't have just one time slot, but the whole night. Although as Riku walks beside me I can see where he disagrees – his fingers twining with my own. The snow falls around us in heavy layers; urging us to get to shelter soon or we'll be buried alive.

Making it inside my tiny two-bedroom apartment I try to not shiver as much as I really am. I peel off the top jacket and hang it by the door as Riku does the same. Shivering, I smile back at Riku before making my way to my room to get a dry jacket. "Snow always makes me want to just cuddle up in bed; so cold and wet." I leave my shoes next to my door as I head for the bed, plopping down with one leg hanging off.

Blinking, Riku is suddenly over me. His face gets closer and closer. I don't even register what he's doing until his lips touch mine. His mouth moves to just kiss at my upper lip, my cheek, my temple. All the while I can't seem to focus. The lighter jacket I wear over my long sleeved shirt makes me want to start panting. Thankfully Riku notices my hands as they push at his shoulders. He stops; sitting up and helping me strip the jacket off followed by his own. But before I can even tug at my shirt I'm pushed back down onto the bed.

His fingertips brush my skin as he slips his hand under my shirt – pulling the material upward in the process. It bunches up around my elbows while his knee finds its way between my legs. I can hear my heartbeat thudding loudly in my ears and my own heavy breathing seems to deafen me. But even more so are the emotions radiating off of Riku himself. His image blurs as he leaves trails of kisses up my chest. I close my eyes, tears trickling out of the corners.

I can feel his passion and it only makes my body feel that much hotter. The lust that seems to stab into me with each kiss sends a chill up my spine. The desire is almost frightening. But it's the underlying sadness that scares me even more. Something about it makes me want to run away and curl up somewhere – wishing it all away. My throat tightens and I gasp, my eyes opening suddenly. The darkness of the room does nothing to calm my fears as I reach for Riku. Fingers fumbling over his hair and down to his shoulders, I bring them up to grasp at his face.

Cupping his countenance in my hands I force him to look at me, to feel my fingers tremble against him. He sighs heavily, the pad of his thumb whipping my tears away. "What's wrong Sora?"

"I…We… We should stop."

"Why? Don't you feel the same for me?"

I shake my head, trying to get away as I drop my hands to shove at his chest. "It's not my feelings, it's yours! They're… I can feel them."

"Then you know how I feel…" He tries to push my hands away, to lean down and kiss me again.

"Riku, stop – please!" I try to get away, but only succeed in turning my head to the side so that I don't have to look at him. "I can't even find my own feelings."

His hand grasps at my chin and turns my face toward him. "Then look deeper. Do you feel the same for me, Sora?"

I try to breathe deep and search, even though I already know the answer. I nod slowly, watching as a smirk curls at his lips. Although I can't see it, I can feel his hand slide away from mine and down my chest. It slips under the hem of my pants and disappears – touching his cold fingers against my hot skin. My head tilts back and I try to make a sound, but nothing comes out. Riku takes the opportunity to cover my lips with his, slipping his tongue inside to explore. As he pulls away, leaving my world spinning, he lowers his lips back toward my neck. "Good, that'll make this all the better."

A/N: It's been a long time since I've truly gone back and worked with this. ; 3 ; Been busy with commissions (which are now open fully on my profile ;D Shameless self-adverting here)

Originally... this had a different ending, which would have taken it well to the 30th chapter mark. But now - hell no. 4 more chapters is all I'm doing XD So of you might want to hit backspace, dunno who will be happy with the ending :'D I'm not even kidding. Fair warning now. Run or stay. ;D Followers for my other stories know exactly what I don't mind doing to these poor characters for the sake of development.

; v ; I truly hate writing in first person. And that's part of the reason it takes me so long - I don't do it often and to transition back is a challenge all in itself. But anyways, I apologize for the delays. This makes four chapters left. I promise to work hard on them. ; 3 ; No need to comment or review – I feel the support just by all the favorites and follows~ Even though it does make me happy to read them ; v ; it's lonely being a writer sometimes.

On other news. Sequel might not happen. :'D If I can get my other projects done I will. But I highly doubt it would come soon even though I have most planned out.

Lol Love you all and thanks for reading this mess.