WARNING:

This story contains references to drug, sex, and violence as well as depictions of such. Please read at your own discretion.

Please Read, Review, Follow! All forms of criticism are welcome.

ROXAS

"Hey, where'd you find that passage on the first keyblade war? You know, the one about strategies?"

"Oh, page forty-two."

It had been a few days since our karaoke night and things had finally began to settle. Hikari was still pretty distant but at least she was trying to get out of her funk. After Master Yen Sid's class today, she'd invited me over to study which had to be a good sign. It was quiet between us, only the gentle music of her speaker perched atop her bookcase to keep us company. But honestly, I didn't mind it.

Every now and then I'd glance up at the redhead to see her scribbling down notes as she scrolled through the textbook, mindlessly jotting down notes. She was focused, more so than usual, but I preferred it over her moping over that psychopath.

There was still no sign of him; no more calls or texts. I was genuinely surprised he'd given up so easily. I thought for sure he would have been blowing up her phone. But I couldn't be surprised. I knew what Vanitas was like, I lay alongside him and Ventus in Sora's heart. It was hard to explain, even harder to make sense of but I could feel him, hear his thoughts, and the darkness he emitted was endless. He was dangerous but luckily, completely out of her life it seemed. Still, I had to remain vigilante, as much as I wanted to believe it, I just knew this wasn't over.

There was a knock at the door but before she could answer, Kairi popped her head in.

"Hey," Hikki smiled. "What's up?"

"There's a party tonight at this mansion by the beach, that one about twenty minutes away."

I'd heard something about that in one of my classes. Apparently, someone had rented it out to host a get together. However, word spread fast and it seemed like the entire base was going. Well, besides me. I'd reached my social limit and the last thing I wanted was to get wasted with a bunch of strangers.

"I already got the others to tag along," Kairi continued. "You guys in?"

Hikari pondered it over with a bite of her lip and an arched brow. I hoped she'd say no and choose to stay in with me instead. We could watch a movie or something and just talk. But once her lips curled into a smile I knew that was out.

"Sure, it'll be fun."

"Great!" She cheered and looked at me. "Roxas?"

"Count me out," I yawned.

"Aw, don't be such a debby-downer!" Kairi whined. "Come out with us!"

"No thanks."

"But Roxas," Hikari teased. "Who's gonna protect me from all the creeps?"

The sarcastic tone of her voice made me smirk, "I'm sure you can handle yourself just fine."

"I think the better question is can they handle you," Kairi chimed in. "A newly single Hikari, fearless as ever. You'll have 'em walking on eggshells around you."

"That's right! Tonight, I'll really lose myself."

The two laughed as I playfully rolled my eyes. I mean, Kairi did have a point. I still hadn't forgotten the fawning looks of guys from my classes. It didn't sit well with me, probably never would. Plus with Vanitas out of the picture there was nothing holding her back. I wanted to trust her judgement but the guys around here could be ruthless. There was no way I'd let her take a chance on them.

Guess whether I liked it or not, my planned nap was about to be cut short as I sighed and said I'd consider coming.

The two squealed before rushing to smother me in hugs, giggling with excitement over whatever the night had in store.

—

After leaving Hikari's dorm I was off to bed in my own room. It was hard to fall asleep as my mind whirled with possibly incidents that frustrating redhead would need saving in. Eventually, I did find a way to drift off into dreamland, only to be woken up two ours later by an excitable Sora about getting dressed. So after a quick shower, slathering some lotion and dabbing cologne, I tossed on a pair of slim, torn black jeans, combat boots, and a blood red sweatshirt. I barely wanted to go to this so there was no way I was going to put effort into my appearance. I even yanked on a black beanie because I was too lazy to style my hair.

The boys were just as simple as me from various jeans, hoodies or sweaters, sneakers or a pair of boots. It was a house party after all, no need to go all out. Soon enough we were scrambling to the train to head over to tonight's event.

Sora had gotten the address from Kairi and it wasn't long before we reached our destination. The house was a large, colonial-styled mansion with a courtyard filled with flowers, bushes and trees. White lampposts eliminated the yard where young people were chatting away as they leaned against various lawn decor. There weren't too many people outside but judging by the blasting bass I could feel in the night's chill air, the party had most definitely started.

When we made our way inside it was just as I expected, people everywhere, thrashing about all kinds of expensive furniture in dozens of rooms. It was dim inside, low lights being the only form of brightness and setting a jovial yet relaxed mood. The smell of drugs and drinks were in the air along with the sounds of blasting new-age RnB music and voices bumbling over one another. I was surprised to see whoever owned this place hadn't hidden away any of the delicate looking decor or worried about the fancy sofas kids had tracked their dirty shoes on. It must have been the homeowner's party rather than a rental. Otherwise, if this place was on loan, the party-thrower definitely wasn't getting their deposit back.

It was when Riku spotted Ven and Namine did I finally remember I hadn't come here to scope the place. They were off at the end of the large kitchen, hanging out by a bar cart, drinks in hand. It was one of the few spaces were the lights were still on and as we approached, the music died down. After saying our greetings, Namine was quick to pull me aside yet again for what I assumed would be another heated argument.

The others looked suspicious, various glances of worry and confusion but I shot them a simple smile, pointlessly trying to settle their concerns. We stepped out and into a empty hallway, gaudy with large mirrors, golden decor, and potted plants. We needed to be away from the music and chatter from the kitchen.

"Roxas… I just wanted to apologize."

My eyes widened but soon I squinted in suspicion. She wanted to apologize? Since when? She seemed pretty firm in her ideas about Light. Where was this coming from? My eyes wandered to a laughing Ven, back at the bar with the boys. He must have said something to her.

"I know it's hard to believe but really, I was doing what I thought was best."

I gazed back at her in a simple white, sweater dress and knee high boots. With that saddened look in her eye there was no way I could stay upset. I'd feel too bad. Besides, I'd probably been too tough on her. I knew in her own, strange way this was how she showed me she still cared. I had to be grateful for that.

"I'm sorry… I was pissed and you didn't deserve me losing it on you."

"No, I did. I went about it all wrong, of course you'd be upset."

Well that wasn't a lie. She'd immediately jumped into accusing and belittling my friend, how else was I going to react? Not to mention the doubt she had in me where she really thought any inconvenience meant I was quick to run. Even with her I'd fought till the end with every fibre of my being, there was no way I'd just ditch somebody so carelessly. I didn't care how important or trivial the issue was, that wasn't me. Still, even if she did have the best intentions, how else was she supposed to go about it? The things she said, the way she felt… Even if it was true it wasn't right. Especially her suggestion about cutting her off. Was she mad?

Just thinking about it again was beginning to make my skin prickle so rather, I shrugged it off with a smile.

"Well, I'd appreciate it if you'd cool it with Hikari."

She couldn't hide the disappointment in her eyes but even so, nodded slowly. "Fair. Anything else?"

"Mix me a drink and we're even."

Namine was surprised by my simple truce but nodded, exalted at the opportunity. In no time we were huddled back with the group and I was sipping on the bourbon she'd spiced with some juices she grabbed from the kitchen. It wasn't too bad and I stationed myself on one of the counters.

It was strange that in the mists of this rowdy party, sprung with young people everywhere, my friends and I had creating this calming atmosphere. Even with all the problems I'd had with Ven and Namine, right now I just felt good. Not great but definitely not terrible. It was almost like all those things that had happened earlier this year was a millennia ago.

But soon enough I grew impatient, waiting on the rest of our party to arrive. I'd never tell her but I was a little interested to see whatever nonsense Hikki had up her sleeve. I wouldn't scold her too much, no matter what she did. She was still in a place where being gentle was imperative but that didn't mean I'd just let her get up to all kinds of trouble.

"Damn."

The change in Riku's voice from casual to stunned had me curious. I furrowed my brows before following the eyes of my roommates to see just what they were gawking at. To my surprise I caught the rest of our group grinning from ear to ear and they looked incredible.

Xion was in a matching two piece of a pullover and shorts with torn edges and flames for a print and Kairi in a sleeveless, short pink ruched dress. But Hikari with her red locks half up, half down took my breath away. Her hips swayed with each step in the distressed, black jean skirt on her bare legs, a rare sight. It was short, only at her mid-thigh and high waisted. I just knew, especially judging by the joint gaze of the guys she passed, her ass looked amazing in it. But her top left me speechless. Karaoke must have shaken her from her blues as tucked into that skirt was a black corset, heaving her already large breasts closer and higher on her chest. The silver lining of the zip flickered in the low lights and the head of the zipper teasingly bounced along with each step. It was the only thing keeping her together and took all I had to look away from it.

"Hikari looks…" Sora uttered.

Axel, just as taken aback as the rest of us, finished, "hot."

My cheeks burned brighter than his hair. He wasn't wrong but I didn't want to play into any part of it. I was glad she was doing better after the chaos Vanitas caused but to see her dressed so revealing made me cautious.

"She's looking straight at you Roxas," Riku's voice muttered. I refused to meet her eye, hell anyone's really.

"Maybe she did it for you?" Ven suggested with a chuckle.

"No," I shook my head and kicked up my leg. I couldn't entertain those kind of thoughts, not when she was so close by. "Hikari's just… she's just trying to piss me off."

"What makes you say that?" Sora questioned, sipping his cooler.

I smirked, "'cause she knows she can."

She must've been punishing me because as she walked, hungry eyes watched each of her steps and I found myself clutching my fists. The girls approached, clearly buzzed by the looks of it and their greetings. Kairi and Xion walked to their respective partners just as Hikari found me.

She grinned and leant between my legs, elbows on the counter and hands cupping her pretty face. I finally looked into those violet-blues before noticing the slim black choker around her neck, leading my eyes back to her cleavage.

She looks good enough to eat. Fucking delicious. Fuck her.

"So you came after all," she batted her lashes.

"I had to see what you were up to."

"And are you impressed?"

I smirked, "thoroughly."

Hikari's cheeks reddened, now from embarrassment. I wanted to touch her, so badly, but I knew we were being watched. I had to pretend we were platonic, at least for my sake. Although, at this rate I didn't know what we were. I watched her eyes fall to the floor and sipped at my liquor, trying to look disinterested. She was so tempting but I couldn't. I shouldn't.

"What's that?" I casted my eyes down on the redhead. She looked adorable from up here.

"Bourbon," I answered.

"Can I have some?"

"You won't like it."

She pouted, "you don't know that."

"I'm sure."

"Roxas."

I tilted the cup towards her and to my surprise she put her lips on it and took a swig. It was quick as her brows creased, a clear sign that like I said, she didn't like it. I could feel my lips pull into a knowing smile but before I could take it back the redhead surprised me by licking the rim of the red plastic cup, eyes burning through me.

Hikari smiled clearly proud of leaving me in a dumbfounded state and walked off, smugly.

"Good luck sadboy," she declared, all eyes of our group now on her. "I'm not gonna go easy on you tonight."

"That so?"

"Mhm," I watched her turn her head back with a grin that just told me I was in for it. "Tonight… Tonight I just might fall for somebody new."

With that she marched off into the main room and I immediately leaped from the counter.

"Hikari!?"

She wouldn't turn back, only giving a short wave and losing herself in the crowd. I groaned just as my friends burst into a laugh at my expense. I just knew tonight would be a long one.

—

Hikari was a firecracker. This may have been worse than Nightingale. She was all over the place, dancing, drinking and surprisingly chatting away with randoms. I'd tried to keep my distance but have a close eye on her. Unfortunately, I was getting exhausted. It wasn't till Axel dragged me out of the house for some fresh air I finally had a moment to chill out.

"So how'd things go with Namine?" He asked, lighting a spliff between his fingers. "You two finally on good terms?"

I shrugged, "we're managing I guess. She agreed to cool it with Hikki though so at least there's that."

"What's her problem with her anyway?"

"You tell me. She dumped me and now's she's trying to tell me who my friends can be? Such bullshit."

"Friends?"

I could hear the cheshire grin on Axel's face but only leaned further on the balcony rail.

"We're not doing this."

"Oh come on!"

"Axel…"

"Just admit it," he demanded. "Not to her or me but to yourself. You're into that girl… Like, a lot."

I casted a warning glare, "I'm not."

"Roxas," he took a long drag from the blunt, watching me from the corner of his eye. "Vanitas already stole her away from you once, you really gonna let somebody else do that again?"

My eyes traversed to the night sky. As much as I hated to admit it, he had a point. Vanitas had swooped in and left her in a state of complete disarray. I found myself wondering if I'd ever see the Hikari I knew again. And that bothered me.

In fact, a lot of things about her bothered me. Like how clueless she could be or her self-doubt, even her secretive behaviour. All those negatives made it so much harder for me to protect her and it was as frustrating as it was enduring. I liked how independent she was, I appreciated her humbleness, and even her naivety could be cute sometimes.

She made me feel so good and I'd be forever grateful to her for helping me find myself again, even if she hadn't realized she had. But even so, she did that out of kindness, not devotion. Yet, my heart still raced when I thought of our sweeter moments and when I was with her I felt at peace.

These feelings… It was like with Namine but still somehow so different and it threw me off completely. I thought I knew what romantic interests felt like but when I thought of her everything just felt so deep. I may not have been able to put it into words but I knew I didn't want it to stop.

So maybe… Maybe I was a little into her.

But it was harmless! I mean, she was a pretty, kind girl; the absolute bare minimum requirement to catch my attention. Of course there we other things, like her humour and loyalty but those were all from feelings of friendship. It was just a little schoolboy crush, nothing severe. I mean we'd even discussed our attraction. Soon enough I'd get over it.

Although, it did feel like I'd been saying that for months. Yet, here I was. Still dealing with these feelings.

Blushing, I shook my head, "not gonna happen."

"You gotta see this through."

My eyes fell back to my best friend, his own staring at the light from the end of the bud. He seemed far away, probably thinking of his own Hikari. I'd heard him mention a girl, once or twice but never pressed on because it was clear it wasn't something he wanted to talk with me about. I had to respect that but when he was ready, I'd be here.

Turning to the moon, I nodded, "yeah."

We stayed out for a few more minutes in a comfortable silence before Axel was back to his cheerful self. He bitched about missions and complained about studying as I scolded him with a laugh. After about ten minutes or so we headed back in.

I knew Axel was right, I knew I had to tell her what had been going on in my head… In my heart. But Vanitas had hurt her so bad and it was her first relationship; it took my months to be okay and it was only after meeting her had I toyed with the idea of dating again. We needed more time, I didn't want to pressure her into anything. No matter how I felt.

"Where's that little brat anyway?" I muttered scanning past the heads of way too many teens.

Axel caught me off-guard with a mighty laugh. I gawked at him only to find him pointing straight ahead. My eyes followed his long finger to goldengirl squished between two guys I barely recognized from Valorsea on top of a bar. They had their hands all over her with one pressed firmly against her ass and the other to her chest.

My rage sparked instantly. If there was one thing I wouldn't stand for, it was this. There was no way I was just gonna let her hookup with some randoms.

"Hikari," I growled, approaching the three. Startled, she glanced down at me and grinned, "Roxas!"

"What the hell are you doing?"

"Dancing, come join me! It's fun."

"No," I said sternly. "Now get down here."

"Aw but Roxas," the boy behind her wrapped his arms loosely around her waist. "We're having so much fun."

"Stay out of it," the other sneered. "She's into this."

Like hell she was. With a quick tug, I pulled the redhead from the table and tossed her over my shoulder. If she was going to make a mistake like this it wouldn't be under my watch. The boys booed and a few eyes followed the scene but I only march forward.

"Bye-bye!" Hikari giggled. "See ya when I see ya!"

Well, at least she was giddy rather than distraught. I carried her off into one of the marble floored hallways, away from the chaos of the makeshift dance floor.

"You okay?" I asked, setting her down.

She nodded, eagerly, "that was fun, Roxie!"

"R-Roxie?" That was a new one for her. One I hated whenever I heard it but on her lips with her voice it wasn't so bad. Just… Strange. "You sure? You need me to get you anything? Water?"

"Nun-uh, you've already saved me like five hundred times!"

Blushing, I replied, "I wouldn't say five hundred."

She was so cute like this, a total contrast to the sexy outfit she'd managed to get herself in. I couldn't blame anyone from trying to get near her. Dressed like that who wouldn't want a chance to get close to her?

"Hey, Roxie?"

"Hm?"

Hikari took my hand gently, "thank you."

My face twisted in confusion but before I could question her, she yanked me down the hall, exclaiming about finding our friends. As lost as I was, her jovial spirit was refreshing and after Vanitas, she deserved some time to just be happy. So I tucked away the thought for a better time.

"Hey, get over here you two!"

We noticed our friends sitting aside in a small lounge with some others from base. Sora waved us over and even though I was planning on getting Hikari home soon, she ended up dragging me along to see what was up.

The room was a little cramped but the couches and rustic coffee table had been pushed aside and the teens had strewn themselves in a circle on the rug. The lights had been shut off but a few lamps brightened things up a bit. I could see Ven and Namine cuddled up on the couch along with Saix and Axel while the others joined our classmates on the ground.

"Are you guys playing Spin the Bottle?" Hikari asked, drawing my attention to the empty vodka glass bottle in the centre. My cheeks reddened at the possibility of playing alongside her.

Kairi rose and took her hand, "kind of! It's just Truth or Dare with a Spin the Bottle twist."

"You in, Hikki?" Xion smirked.

"Definitely!" She cheered. "Roxas too! Come on, come on! Let's play!"

She was so hyperactive in this state. It would have been cute if I wasn't so worried about her. She plopped down next to Kairi just as Sora shifted over to make room for me. I supposed I didn't have much of a choice now. Oh well, things would be okay. I could keep a close eye on her from here and judging by her giggling with her roommates, she was still in a good mood. That was what was most important.

"Now, where were we?"A mischievous smile fell to Sora's lips before he struck his finger towards a raven-haired boy sitting across from him. The boy had a sorrowful look on his face, probably instantly regretting whatever he'd done to land Sora's sights on him.

"Aris! You chose dare, right?"

A twinkle sparked in his eye, "you don't remember?"

"Nope, that was just a test!" The brunette grinned. "Now it's gonna be a really bad one."

"Aw, come on Sora!" He whined. "Go easy on me… I'll do your Land Navigation homework for a week!"

"Nope, shouldn't have lied. Now…" His eyes scanned the room before landing on an amused Axel. "I dare you to lick Axel's armpit!"

There was a roar of laughs and retching, even I was taken aback by Sora's cruelty but he did love a game of Truth or Dare, especially when he was tipsy.

Aris whined and begged but the others cheered him on as he swore revenge against Sora before begrudgingly heading over to the cackling redhead. I could barely look as Axel revealed his hairy pits to the poor guy and Hikari could only watch between her fingers. I had to admit, the moment Aris stuck out the tip of his tongue I shut my eyes and only opened them when I heard a unanimous gag.

Aris clawed at his tongue between panicked gulps of his drink while the rest of us squirmed and laughed in disgust. When he'd finally had enough he set his empty cup down and glared at Sora. That had been a declaration of war.

Before anyone could saying anything else, he snatched the glass bottle and gave it a wicked spin. It was instant karma when it landed on Axel. He only sneered with a shrug. Axel was a risk-taker, it would take a lot to shake him up.

"Axel, truth or dare?"

"Let's do dare."

"Hm… Oh, I got it!" Aris gleamed. "I'm gonna mix a cup of everybody's drinks here and I dare you to drink the entire thing!"

There were nervous cries and giggles but Aris was quick with rounding up the cups. In no time, his red solo cup was filled to the brim with a murky brown substance. It smelt god awful and I even gagged before passing it off to him.

Axel tried to play it cool, chanting salute before bring the cup to his lips but his eyes said it all. Thye expanded, bigger than I'd ever seen before shrivelling up like a lemon. His adam's apple bobbed as he tried to choke the concoction down but with the occasional reflex, I worried that he'd vomit right here.

"Come on, Axel!" Xion cheered. "You got this."

I watched his eyes roll to the back of his head, his neck cranking back as he emptied the cup further. At the last drop he crushed the cup and stuck out his tongue triumphant. We cheered but I was more concerned by the icky brown streak of whatever the hell that mess was left on his tongue.

"Ugh, I feel queasy," Axel whined, leaning back on the couch. "Namine, give it a spin for me, will ya?"

She leaned down and twirled the bottle only for it to land on a slim blonde I may have had a class with. I wasn't sure which though.

"Cara," he said. "That's your name, right?"

She was a little shy, practically ducking behind the baggy sweatshirt she was in and nodded.

"Nice to meet ya! Now, truth or dare?"

"Truth, I guess."

Axel sighed, seemingly disappointed and I shot him a warning glare. The girl was timid, no need to embarrass her or anything.

"Who would you never want to see naked?"

The group chuckled as she blushed but through it over carefully.

"Oh, um, Professer Vexen."

We gagged as the thought of a naked Vexen emerged in our thoughts. Out of everything I'd seen tonight, that had to be the grossest. Once we'd settled down a bit, Cara spun the bottle only for it to land on Aris once more.

"Not again," he groaned. "Alright, lay it on me."

"Hm… What's the craziest thing you've ever done in public?"

"Geez, there's almost too many to count," he mulled. "I gotta go with the time I ran through Radiant Garden naked."

A moment of silence with stares galore before the entire group roared with laughter.

"Yeah, yeah, laugh it up," Aris groaned. "I ain't gonna tell y'all the story either so get your kicks in now."

There were a few whines but he stayed the course and instead pushed on with the game.

And that's how it went for a little while, embarrassing truths and hilarious dares. I was actually having fun and judging by the smile upon Hikari's face, so was she. I couldn't help but blush a little when our eyes met once or twice but soon enough, the tension between us faded and we even made a few jokes with one another.

Somehow, we'd wound back on Aris and with his spin he finally got to enact his vengeance.

"Alright!" Aris gleamed. "I've been waiting for this one."

Sora's face paled at the sight of the neck of the bottle pointed towards him. Aris only laughed in response; I was ready to see what sweet revenge he'd been cooking up.

"Well, Sora, what's it gonna be? Mind you, one will probably ruin your relationship and the other your life. Choose wisely."

"Can't really do one without the other," the brunette muttered. "Ugh, fine! Let's make it fair: dare."

Aris's smile spread, looking as if it took up half of his face. "I was hoping you'd say that, now," he held out his hand. "Give me your phone."

There was a panic in Sora's eyes but with some chiding from the crowd, he reluctantly passed Aris his phone. The dark haired boy typed on it eagerly, snickering and cackling to himself as Sora groaned in regret. We tried to get him to tell us what he was doing but refused before handing the phone over to Kairi and tell her to keep it till tomorrow. Sora cried about that not being fair but the deed was done and he'd just have to suffer in anticipation. Damn, Aris had won this round.

We had a few more rounds of giggles before Sora finally spun the bottle. I cocked a brow as it landed on Riku who leaned back upon his palm and smirked.

"Truth."

"Okay," Sora simmered over all the possible questions he could ask. "Tells us an embarrassing story from when you were a kid."

"Geez," Riku groaned. "Okay, okay." He was already blushing bright red which made me even more intrigued. Riku was barely ever embarrassed so this had to be a good one.

"When I was eight, I was super into BladeBoys, had the cards, the little gadgets, whole nine-yards. Problem is that my parents were super strict about me only getting to play with them if I kept my grades up. As expected, the day comes I fail a math quiz. Expectedly, my parents confiscate my shit."

Sora chuckled but Kairi and even Xion looked clueless. Guess this was a secret only they'd shared.

"Me being a badass little kid, I'm like 'those toys are mine, they can't just take them away. That's gotta be illegal or something.' Interesting fact, it's not," Riku continued as the group chuckled at his despair. "So normally after school, I'd stay at Sora's until my mom got home in the evening. Oh no, but this day, I went straight home to find my stuff. So I'm looking and looking all over the house and it dawns on me, it must be in my parents room. Head over there, still no luck. But then I remember the closet."

Sora bellowed out laughing just as the story was getting good. I smacked his chest to quiet down.

Riku sighed, "so I'm looking in the closet when I hear a noise. It's my mom. I'm panicking now, she's gonna kick my ass when she opens up the door to put her clothes away. I'm trying to think of an escape plan when I hear her groaning and some noisy steps. My stupid ass assumes she's hurt and peeks through the blinds of her closest and that's when I see it. My mom is having her clothes torn off by my dad just before he— God, Sora, why'd you make me tell this?"

Luckily for Riku, there was no need to continue as the rest of us were too busy choking from laughter to hear the rest. When the group finally settled, the glass was spun again and to my surprise, it pointed right at me.

"Alright, I got the perfect one for you, Roxas."

"Is that so?" I smirked. "Alright, let's hear it."

"First, truth or dare?"

With him, either were probably bad so I may as well go for the simpler of the two. Truth would require me to blurt out some terrible secret, dare on the other hand would probably just be something gross. I could handle that.

"Dare."

His eyes closed, a sinister smile wide upon his lips. Maybe this wouldn't be as simple as I thought.

"I dare you to kiss the prettiest girl here."

My face reddened as the others cooed and giggled. I should have known he'd set me up for something like this. Riku, that sly asshole, of course he'd find a way to put me on the spot. The eyes of my friends dribbled between Hikari and I. Was it that obvious that she was my first thought? I mean of course I would pick her, they'd seen her tonight, she looked gorgeous. But also after what she'd been through a confident boost like this would do her some good. Besides, it was just the cheek, no biggie. We'd laugh about it after.

I rose to my knees with a casual grin, "sure. H—"

"On the lips."

My heart skipped. I whisked my eyes towards Riku who only cocked a brow with a satisfied smile. Oh, he knew exactly what he was getting us into. It was moments like these I despised my friends meddling.

Hikari shifted uncomfortably, almost like she knew something was wrong. My plan had completely gone out the window, there was no way I could do it now. What kind of man would I be if I just did something like that out here? In front of all these people? Rumours were bound to spread and that wouldn't be good for either of us. Besides, it didn't feel right. She'd just gotten out of a relationship, I couldn't just push her into another complex situation. I needed a plan and fast.

"Well?" Kairi sneered, she knew exactly what this was. I wouldn't have been surprised if they'd all planned this. This game was rigged!

"Go on then," Xion cooed. "Kiss her."

I knew exactly who she meant and my heart raced at the thought. Kiss her? Kiss… Hik— No! No, I couldn't. Not now, she was too vulnerable. They all knew this, how could they plan such a thing? They may have thought enough time had passed for her to move on but it hadn't. I just knew it hadn't. It didn't matter, I could curse them out later, right now I had to get out of this bind.

She kept her eyes on me just as I sighed before leaning forward. Her glance seemed hazy and her face was somehow even more beautiful with every push forward. Her lashes grew heavy, eyes closing slow and a pain struck my chest. Do it, do it now!

My lips slammed onto the small blonde from earlier. My eyes were shut so tightly it felt almost painful to open them but when I did all I could see was Hikari's kind, loving face turn to one of distraught.

What had I done?

I snapped back to my seat, head bent in shame. The others cheered but my friends were quiet. Probably still in shock by my cowardice. Hell, I was. I couldn't even meet her in the eye. I felt like shit knowing that maybe I could have made her smile and maybe even face this truth I'd been avoiding. Instead, I humiliated her and myself.

"I, um…"

Hikari's voice was timid but it stole my attention in an instant. I watched her rise to her feet, expression blank before she forced a smile.

"Bathroom, I'll be back."

My hands clenched into fists. This was my fault. I had to follow her and apologize. But for what exactly? It was true, she made my head spin and I was attracted to her, so freaking attracted, but I couldn't just throw all that out there. I'd promised I'd protect her and telling her these crazy feelings and thoughts wouldn't do that.

I could barely hear the teasing of my classmates as I rose to my feet. I had yet to find the words but as I watched Hikari dive out of the backdoor leading to the backyard, absolutely none of that mattered.

"Roxas," Riku mumbled. "Damnit, I thought—"

"It's okay," I smiled uncomfortably. "I'm going after her."

There was no debate as I stepped away from the circle and began my search.

—

The backyard was spacious, much like the house but a lot less crowded as the weather chilled into the night. I glanced between small groups circled together but couldn't see her anywhere. It wasn't until I saw a shimmer of red hair through the windows of a large greenhouse did I spot her.

My heart raced with each step into the enclosed jungle but if that's where she was, that's all that mattered. She had her back to the front door she'd left ajar and was running her fingers over colourful plants in wonder.

Entering the greenhouse, I found myself mystified but her delicate frame lost in the greenery. She walked down the row aimlessly, God only knowing what was on her mind.

I closed the door and approached, cautious as not to scare her. I had to keep a safe distance, no doubt I'd pissed her off again.

"Hikki."

She was bent over, gazing at a bundle of roses, "so pretty. I've never seen them in purple before."

Looking at the bundle, she was right. These roses were a deep violet shade with large, textured petals. She was enamoured by the flowers, I couldn't see why. The rows upon rows of plant life including vines and hanging plants galore wasn't exactly my scene.

But I hadn't come here to talk flowers, "Hikari, I'm sorry."

The redhead paused, processing my apology with a look of confusion. Was that not good enough? It was direct, sure, but I didn't want to rehash the mistake I'd made.

"No need to apologize, Roxas. That girl's totally your type, huh?"

My hand rubbed the back of my neck, my expression clearly of unease. "I don't know… I guess. I wasn't really paying attention."

"I was," she sprung up, leading me to jump back a bit. "Slim blondes, those are the kind of girls you like."

I'd never really considered it but thinking back, that Cara did look a bit like Namine, hadn't she? Not so much in facial structure but most definitely in mannerisms. And she was right, after Namine, the only girls I'd drifted to were slim blondes.

But not her.

"Anyway, it's expected," she smiled. "Beautiful people will always fall for beautiful people."

Although she smiled, there was a sadness in her eyes. It had to be heartache, I knew that feeling. When I'd learned about Namine and Ven I was distraught, especially to think that she could fall for someone who had my exact face. It was bizarre and enraging as it oddly pointed towards me, actually me being the problem.

It was hard to understand but I would have taken Namine dating anyone else rather than a guy who was basically my twin. When looks were in the picture it was like I could blame it on something tangible, something I could improve. But unfortunately for me, my ex wasn't that shallow. Instead, who I was as an individual and my lack of understanding for her and her problems is what put an end to us.

But that was me, Hikari on the other hand had to spend all this time wondering if maybe her appearance was the problem. She hadn't told me what the girl looked like and I hadn't asked but I heard from the girls she was slim and pale with long dark hair, nothing like the curvy, golden-brown redhead. That had to be killing her.

Hikki was already pretty insecure about her appearance before all this Vanitas crap. I still remembered her worrying about her weight during our training and despite pretending to be oblivious, I knew she constantly feared losing the figure she'd worked so hard to obtain. We'd only talked about it a few times but she'd told me once how she was always stuck being Mari's fat, ugly little sister. She'd giggled but like now, I could see the hurt. I told her it couldn't possibly have been that bad and now it didn't matter. Clearly, she didn't believe me and this Vanitas problem solidified her fears.

Sometimes I wished I could just shake her into seeing what I saw. The face of an angel on the body of a succubus, one that not only took mine but several breaths away. God, it was cheesy but it was true. I didn't care what she said or how she felt about it, she was beautiful. Just as beautiful as Mari and Kairi, Xion and Namine and I prayed over and over again to try and find a way to make her see that.

"I haven't fallen for anyone," I muttered but she only waved me off. Back to thinking she knew better than me, I guess. She could be such an utter dolt sometimes but with her leaned casually against the wooden table, eyes circling the sky, I had a better way of proving myself.

I stood before her, close enough to touch, and boxed her in with my arms at either sides of her hips. She blushed instant, surprise all over her face as I leaned in.

"Hikari…" I whispered. "I don't have a type."

She blinked from her shock and smirked, "you sure about that? Since I've known you I've only seen you go after blondes."

"That's not true," I sneered. "I went after you, didn't I?"

That startled her and she brought a trembling hand to her lips, clearly embarrassed by the attention. But I wouldn't let up. She was adorable like this, shying away in an outfit as revealing as this. It made me want to close the distance between us but I couldn't push. It would be wrong.

"Did you?" She mumbled. "I don't recall."

Chuckling, I tilted my head, "that so? 'Cause if I remember correctly, my attraction to you has been a reoccurring theme with us."

"Roxas…"

"It's true. Bold, but true. So don't ever put yourself down in front of me. It's insulting."

Hikari chuckled, sweetly, "if I remember correctly, the feeling was mutual."

She pulled my hand to her chest, resting just above her cleavage. With a step forward, I felt my body grow warm. She looked so peaceful, smiling down at her hands clasping mine. I wanted so badly to stay with her like this. I'd wanted that for so long, just to have her to myself. It was so selfish but it was completely true.

And now I did. There was no one to get between us.

So why did I feel so bad?

Looking at her, being with her, it was all I'd ever wanted. She'd become my light, my boost of energy, my most important person. Yet when there was a chance to move our relationship forward I completely dropped the ball. Not just once but over and over again I pushed her away.

But now she was so close, so tempting and these confusing feelings rocked my mind with intrusive thoughts. These feelings were both familiar and so foreign. There was no way I could get into this with her, not now. Not after what I'd done or her breakup. She'd never forgive me, I'd never forgive me.

"I can't do this…" I was kicking myself internally. It was just like that night all over again. "Not like this."

Hikari was silent, only looking back at me with an intense stare. I had to look elsewhere, preparing myself for a fight.

And then I felt her hand on my cheek.

She guided my eyes back to her and my lips parted into a sweet smile on her face.

"Okay, Roxas," she whispered. "I'll wait."

I was shocked but she pushed it further when she stretched onto her toes and placed a long, warm kiss upon my cheek. I wanted to keep her there, close. Soon enough my arms found their way onto her waist. She looked surprised but soon relaxed and laid her head on my chest, arms tied behind my neck. I don't know what came over us or how it started but our bodies began to sway to the sound of the windy night.

"You're too good to me," Hikari whispered.

"How?"

"You just are," she laughed softly. "You're my best friend."

"I thought Mari was your best friend."

"Well," she pondered. "So are you. Plus, she's more like my sister."

"Your sister that kissed—"

"Don't even."

I chuckled, "hm, then I guess you're mine too."

"What about—"

"Right next to Axel and Xion."

Hikari chuckled, "good. But Roxas?"

"Hm?"

"Sometimes, I get jealous."

With my interest piqued I rose a brow, "jealous?"

I could feel her bob her head against my chest, "yeah. I don't… I don't want to share you… With anybody. S-sometimes."

My face reddened instantly, "i-is that so?"

"Mhm," Hikari's voice was so soft but the things she was saying… She was definitely tipsy. "Sometimes I want you to be mine. Especially when the girls at school start talking…"

"What do they say, Hikki?"

"That they want you," her eyes rotated to stare at me. Cautiously, I tilted my head downwards to meet her aloof glare. "Everybody wants you because you're amazing. You're smart, kind, brave, funny and so pretty."

"P-pretty?" I couldn't get any redder but Hikari seemed oblivious to it.

"Yeah," she giggled. "You're the most beautiful boy I know." Her head fell back to the side but I kept my eyes on her. "They talk about you all the time, your body, your hair… They want you in ways I…"

"In ways you what, Hikari?"

"I-I… I'm trying to understand. But I don't blame them. When I first saw you I probably wanted you in those ways too."

Abruptly she laughed, causing a nervous chuckle from me. We never really talked about that first time. I thought about it but I'd never told her what I thought upon seeing her. I couldn't. It was too strange to talk about physical attraction where we stood.

"I shouldn't get jealous," her whisper forced me to focus. "You're an adult, you're single, you can do whatever makes you happy."

"Well 19 is hardly an adult…"

"Still, I'm stupid. Don't ever let me get in the way of your happiness, okay?"

"You aren't stupid," smiling, I brought her forehead to my lips. "Hikari, I am happy. Right here, right now. With you."

I pressed my lips to her soft skin, gripping her close and considering never letting go.

—

The weekend came and went, filled with training and studying and before I knew it, it was back to work as usual. With the two days off, it seemed to help cool down the rush of hormones from last Friday night. As for today, it had been more of the same all at a steady pace. I was headed to lunch when I heard someone call out my name.

Looking behind me, I met the chestnut brown eyes of the blonde from the party. She stood uncomfortably in her uniform, the full ensemble with blazer and all as she shifted from one foot to the other. It was much too large for her skinny frame and practically ate her up.

"Yeah?" I asked. "What's up?"

Her cheeks reddened, as if she was surprised by my attention. I cocked a brow in confusion but something told me this wasn't just an out-of-the-blue encounter. Judging by her demeanour, I didn't want to sound presumptuous but with all that had happened on Friday, I could only assume there was something she wanted to confess.

"I-I don't know if you remember me," she stuttered. "C-Cara?"

Truth by told I hadn't remembered her. I mean when Riku's dare came up, the only thing on my mind was dodging Hikari. It honestly hadn't mattered who was next to her, it just couldn't be her.

But I did feel guilty, wrapping up another innocent girl in my mess. These feelings were turning me into a monster and if I didn't do something about them soon I felt I'd explode.

"Yeah, how are you?"

"Good," she blushed. "I, um, wanted to ask you something."

I perched a brow, hopeful that whatever she wanted to ask me had to be about classes or something. It may have been naive but I wasn't prepared for any kind of intimacy with anybody else. I'd spent this entire weekend figuring out my feelings and was still struggling to come to terms with them.

"Do you… Would you…?"

"Hm?"

I watched her take a deep breath, cringing at the words I just knew were next to come.

"Do you want to go out with me? S-sometime?"

I gazed at the blonde, my lips pulling into a sympathetic smile. As much as I admired the gesture, there was just no way I could accept. My heart was a mess but through the chaos I'd found peace.

And I knew exactly where.

"I'm sorry, Cara but… I think I like somebody."

Her body shrunk with disappointment. I hadn't meant to hurt her. But doing what I'd done before would have been so much worse, I knew that now.

"You're a great girl," I explained. "But I… I've gotta see this through."

She kept still, arms wrapped around her waist. My smile began to fade as I turned my back to leave. It was better to keep things short and sweet, less painful. The worst part of my breakup was how long it took. It was torture, fighting and trying. Pain like that needed to be cut from the root, sharply and quickly.

"The girl you like…"

I glanced back at the slim blond and cocked a brow.

"I'm sure…" She smiled. "I'm sure she likes you too."

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

Hello reader(s)! Just wanted to say thank you so much for reading!

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