Disclaimer: I don't own Digimon

Story takes place six months after Hopeful Light.

Reliable Knowledge

Wow, would you look at that! I exclaimed at the lit candles that suddenly died out.

It is amazing. Have you noticed that the candles light faster each time we do it? Almost instantly the smaller candles light before ours do.

I agree. It must be that we are getting stronger. I wonder if the others are getting much stronger? I said, as I got up and pulled my shirt on.

Well, Tai told me that he and Sora don't practice much.

Oh. They should though.

Yes they should. Hey Joe, where's Shila? I know you brought her along to visit.

She's shopping with Mimi, and guess who the brought along?

Izzy looked up and smiled.

The two of them dragged Matt with them.

Izzy and I laughed as he put his shirt back on. I started to head toward the door.

Joe, aren't you forgetting something?

What am I forgetting?

Before you leave, you might want to consider changing your pants.

I rubbed the back of my head. I guess I forgot. I'll go change now and then head over to the mall before Matt gets too angry at me.


***

Matt, which halter top do you think looks better? The red, pink, or green?

I have no idea Mimi, I replied rolling my eyes. Why don't you ask Shila, wouldn't she do a better job of helping you?

Fine. Shila, have you finished putting on that silver top? It would look so good with the gold miniskirt you're buying. Mimi asked to the change room.

Here, let me come out with the outfit, Shila answered as she unlocked the door.

That looks so great! Now which looks best: red, pink, or green? Mimi asked as she held the halter tops up to her body.

Wow, I recommend Shila buys that outfit. She looks so good. Her hair is already so golden, it looks good with the skirt. Wait Ishida, Mimi is your girlfriend. You love her more than anything.

...Matt, are you listening to me? Mimi demanded.

I replied honestly.



What, I'm going to be honest. I'm not going to lie and make trouble again.



Well, what do you expect me to do? You should be thanking me that I actually come with you on your shopping trips. You two owe me big time. Actually, Joe also owes me big time.

Mimi smiled again. You're right. She gave me a quick kiss again and turned to Shila. Shall we go purchase our clothes?

Shila nodded and then turned to me. I'll make sure Joe pays you your debt.

You won't have to, Mimi said as she pointed into the crowd, he's coming right now.

I turned around to see Joe walking over in brown pants and a gray t-shirt.

Hi sweety, Shila greeted as she walked over and gave her boyfriend a kiss on the cheek. Are you already finished practicing with Izzy?

Yeah. The candles are lighting more faster than ever. How's been the practicing of you two?

Before I could answer Mimi blurted out, What practicing? Oh you must mean the different ways Matt sleeps with me!

I exclaimed glaring at her.

Matt, you wanted honesty, I'll give you honesty. There is also-

I covered her mouth with my hand before she could give anymore of our privacy away.

Seriously, have you two been practicing?

I shook my head. No. But you got to and left me shopping with two shoppers who desperately asked for my opinion every two seconds. You so owe me Joe!

I know, I know. That is why I'll buy us some ice cream.

We walked past a dozen more shops that Mimi and Shila pointed excitedly to, saying we have to go there. After we made it passed the clothing store section, we found ourselves smelling the greasy fast food section.

What kind of ice cream do you want? Joe asked Mimi and I.

I want vanilla. Matt what kind of ice cream would you like? He needs a flavor that will make his face stop blushing, Mimi answered.

Why would Matt's face need to stop blushing? Tai asked as he and Sora approached the group.

He needs to stop blushing because I was giving details of our sex life to Joe and Shila, Mimi replied looking mischievously at me. I felt my face redden more.

Tai and Sora looked horrified. You're joking right? Tai asked.

I shook my head. But Mimi exaggerates way too much. Come on, lets go, I answered as I pulled Mimi's hand along.

Ow, Matt! You're hurting me.

I let go of her when we were out of sight. What's the big idea Mimi? Why are you doing this? Are you trying to blurt everything out?

You're asking me? You wanted the truth, I guess you aren't man enough to handle it.

That hurt Mimi, I said quietly.

Sorry Matt. I'm not sure why I'm acting like this. I don't feel like myself, I feel somewhat different.

You know what I think?



I think we have to practice Sincere Friendship.

Mimi said. And, I'm really sorry.

It's okay. Come on, lets go to my place, my dad won't be home until ten.

All right. I'll call my mom and say I'm over at Sora's.

Your mom still doesn't like me?

After she found out that you got me almost pregnant two years ago, she doesn't like you.

I know what you mean. My dad likes you, but my mom That's a whole different story.

Lets go Matt. Unless you want to face the others.

***

Poor Mimi, I said thoughtfully. Matt was really mad.

He had a reason to. I would be mad if you acted that way, Tai said leading me towards his car.

Kari called. You're supposed to be at home. Mom says you were supposed to babysit Angie.

Oh shit! Tai yelled, banging his palm on his forehead.

Kari and T.K. ran up to us.

Isn't Angie your little cousin? I asked.

Tai nodded. Kari, why didn't you call me sooner? You know I don't leave home without my cell phone.

I tried, but I think the battery ran out or something.

Get in the car, Tai said, pushing Kari in. Sorry, but my aunt will kill me if I'm too late. Do you think you'll find a ride home?

I nodded. T.K. and I will catch the subway or hitch a ride with Joe and Shila.

I'll call you tonight! Kari shouted to T.K.

I will too, Tai said before he sped out of the parking lot and onto the road. A car honked when Tai cut in front of him.

Tai is a bad driver when he's late, T.K. commented.

He is a bad driver considering he's late all the time, I said with a giggle.

Let's try to find Joe and Shila.

Maybe Mimi and Matt are with them. Matt told me to meet him here. He actually begged saying that he would be shopping with Mimi and Shila while Joe went over to Izzy's. I would have come sooner, but I had some things to take care of.

You wouldn't have seen Matt anyway. They left a half an hour ago.

T.K. asked.

Oh I don't know, I said as I blushed.

Sora, I know you're lying. You were always a mother figure to me in our earlier days in the Digital World, and you still are. Tell me, what happened to Matt?

T.K., that means so much so much to me. Matt and Mimi had a little argument, that's all.



Come on, lets go find Joe before we have to take the subway! I suggested.

-I hope Matt isn't too furious with Mimi.

Shila, he has every right to. She was totally embarr-

Hi Joe, I interrupted before he could say too much in front of T.K. Could we get a ride home? I live relatively close to T.K., so if you give me a ride, I can walk home from there.

Sure. Grab a seat guys. Hi T.K. Joe said standing up to take a seat by Shila while T.K. and I shared a booth. Want me to buy you two a coffee or juice?

I'll have a hot chocolate, but don't worry, I'll buy for T.K. and I, I said standing up. What would you like?

I'll have a hot chocolate, but hold the whip cream.



I waited in the small line up for a few minutes.

Can I help you? I looked up to find a tall, thin man with black hair staring at me.

Sure. I'll have two hot chocolate's, one with whip cream, one without. I looked back at the others. I could see Shila and Joe almost finished their coffee's. To go please.

The total comes to six dollars and sixty six cents.

Really? I thought hot chocolate was only one dollar and ninety nine cents.

Well Lov-

I stared at him.

Well you lovely young lady. I'm sorry, I just happen to like those numbers, I must have put in the numbers wrong. I'll go get your hot chocolates. The odd man walked over to the machine and began to pour hot chocolate into two Styrofoam cups. He walked back over to me and I handed him a five dollar bill. He gave me sixty three cents in change and smiled, a smile that made a chill go down my spine. Say hi to your friends Izzy and Joe for me.

I took the cups from him. I didn't respond to what he just said, instead I walked over to where Joe, Shila, and T.K. sat. I handed T.K. his cup as I sat back down.

Yeah Sora?

Do you know that man at the counter? I asked pointing behind me.

What man?

I turned around to find myself staring at a young woman who was cleaning off the counter top. But there was a man who said her knew you and Izzy.

Really? Strange. Well, I should take you two home, Joe said standing up.

T.K. and I followed Shila and Joe to his car. We crawled inside the back seat and were soon on our way to T.K.'s apartment. About fifteen minutes later, we pulled up to T.K.'s apartment.

Thanks for the ride Joe. See you two later, T.K. said as he climbed out and shut the door.

I reached for the handle and opened it up.

Sora, I know you don't live over here. You live a couple of apartment buildings always from Tai. I don't mind driving you home.

It's okay. You don't have to take me home. I'll take the subway home.

Sora, I've know you for a long time. There is no way I'm going to let you take the subway at this time of the day, plus Shila and I are staying at my friends apartment a few blocks away from your apartment. I know you just wanted to make sure T.K. got home safe. Why didn't Tai just take you with him?

Thanks Joe, I said as I closed the door and waited for T.K. to go inside his building. I don't think Tai was thinking clearly.

Joe laughed. That's Tai for you.

I nodded. But you've got to love him.

Shila asked as she turned around, what is your crest symbol?

I have the Crest of Love.

That suits you.

Thanks Shila.

I also think the Crest of Courage suits Tai. He seems like the guy who's ready for a fight.

That's true, I added, he and Matt always used to fight back when we were younger.



I looked up and caught Joe's glance in the review mirror. It's not really my business to say.

How come? I won't tell Matt I know.

Shila, I don't think Matt would be very happy if he knew you knew. It still bothers him a lot. He still doesn't think he's worthy of his crest or-

What Joe's trying to say, is Matt's an emotional guy. He was kind of over protective of T.K. when he was younger and still is, I concluded.

I noticed Matt is overly protective of T.K. Why? Shila asked.

It's because his parents are divorced. He used to feel like that was his only purpose in life. That is until T.K. began to grow up and didn't want Matt to protect him all the time. Finally he realized that, and I ended up with him and T.K. in this cave looking for you, Sora. He said he also went to the cave of negative feelings, Joe explained.

Why doesn't he feel worthy?

He doesn't feel worthy to his crest or us. He doesn't feel like he deserves the Crest of Friendship. I think he doesn't feel worthy to himself.

I said, You know Matt doesn't like to be the center of attention.

I know, but I'm just telling Shila a bit about him.

I have always thought Matt deserved the Crest of Friendship. Always. He is a really good friend, he always has been. I care for him a lot as a friend and I would appreciate it if we didn't talk about him behind his back. Here's my apartment. See you tomorrow and thanks for the ride, I said quietly as I got out of the car and shut the door.

A wave of guilt came over me as I watched Joe and Shila drive away. What was all that about? Why was Shila so curious about Matt? It was none of her business why his life is tough sometimes. And why was Joe so eager to tell Shila? Oh well. I guess I should call Tai. I ran out of the rain to my apartment.

***

Where did you say the candles are Matt? Mimi called as she went to my bedroom.

They're in my closet. Try not to get lost!

Very funny. Your closet isn't that messy, Mimi said as she came out with the bag that had Sincere Friendship marked on it.

Where did you set your clothes? I asked going near the front door.

They are by your shoes.

I said coming back with the green bag, marked with pink lettering that said Sincerity on it. It's good you found it before your mom came in.

I know. She would have had a fit if she saw us rummaging together in the closet.

I laughed. It was funny when we stopped by Mimi's so she could get her special clothes and tell her mom she was going over to Sora's for a sleep over. It was even more hilarious when her mom came upstairs and we were almost caught, but luckily she had a rope in her room that she uses to come sneak visits with me.

Lets get changed and started.

I said leading her to my room.

I took off my clothes and put on the blue pants that came to us the day I died. Mimi changed into a long green spaghetti strap dress. I love that dress on you.

Thanks Matt, Mimi said placing a quick kiss on my lips. lets do this.

You know, I said as we headed back into the living room to set the candles in a circle, we should have been practicing this more often.

You're right Matt, but now is a good time to start.



Because, we have good excuses to get out of the house. It's summer and my mom doesn't question when I go for a sleep over.

That's true. Make sure you have your crest on.

Oh yeah. She took the Crest of Sincerity and slid it around her neck, it matched perfectly with her dress.

I looked at the blue Crest of Friendship I bared around my neck, it was the same color as my pants. Hold out your hands.

She did and I accepted them. I began to concentrate on our power.

Sincere Friendship. Sincere Friendship. Sincere Friendship. Sincere Friendship.

The red, orange, gray, purple, pink, and yellow lighted up immediately. It took a few seconds for the blue and green candles to light, but they did placing us in a blue and green light. It stayed like this for a few seconds, but then faded away.

That felt so purifying, Mimi whispered.

I haven't felt this peaceful since the last time we did this.

We haven't done this for two months. We have to do this more often.

I agree, but right now I feel tired.

Me too, Mimi said as she placed the candles in the bag.

I followed her to my room and turned the light switch on as she made her way to the closet to put the bag back. She walked towards the bed and stumbled on the way.

Are you okay?

I'm fine, I just tripped on your telephone cord.

Come here, I said, making a space for her in my bed.

She climbed in and snuggled close to me. I love you Matt.

I love you too, I said giving her a soft kiss good night.

We fell asleep, the rain was oblivious to us.

***

Try phoning your brother again, Mom suggested.

Mom, the phone line is disconnected. He probably disconnected it to get some sleep. We'll call him in the morning.

T.K., lets go pick him up.

I don't think he'll want us to come barging over there at eight o'clock at night.

I told your father I would have him stay here while he was on the business trip, Mom said reaching for the phone. She dialed Matt's number, but soon hung up. Still disconnected.

I'm going to sleep. Matt can take care of himself, you're forgetting he is and adult.

Mom rolled her yes. He's been eighteen for two weeks and you think he's an adult?

I nodded.

He may be eighteen, but I'm still his mother. I say we go pick him up and watch a movie together.

I exclaimed, giving up and throwing my hands into the air.

***

This feels so nice. I want to stay like this forever. I snuggled over to Mimi, who snuggled back.

A knocking on the door started the both of us, causing my head to jerk. Who could that be? I quietly snuck out of the room and went over to the door.

Hello Matt I- Mom stared down at me. You could have least put some pants on. Do you always answer the door in your boxers?

Right, she can't see these pants.

T.K. laughed. He stepped inside, but Mom waited on the porch.

Good, now she can't find Mimi. What are you doing here?

Remember, Dad went on the business trip, T.K. answered.

We've come to pick you up, Mom said.

I'm going to go get dressed. I'll be back in a jiffy, I quickly went to my room and quietly shut the door behind me.

I put on a pair of blue jeans and a black t-shirt. I fixed a few of the blonde spikes in my hair with gel and then headed for the desk. I took a note pad and a pen, quickly scribbling on the note the conflict I had. She knew the routine to leave the house and lock the door behind her. I took a piece of tape and the note, taping it on the door. I grabbed my wallet on the way out.

Ready to go? T.K. asked, getting his shoes back on.



I also put my shoes on and was about to leave the house when the bedroom door open.

Matt, your still here! Mimi exclaimed as she finished tying the knot on my robe.

I nodded at Mimi and then turned to Mom, who didn't see what T.K. and I could. She couldn't see the green dress Mimi was wearing under the robe, instead she saw a naked girl coming out of her boyfriends room at night in his robe.

Maybe this wasn't such a good idea, Mom said taking T.K.'s hand and pulling him out of the apartment.

I called out the door, Wait Mom! It isn't what you think! You don't understand!

Understand what Matt? You broke your promise to me! Mom yelled back as she and T.K. walked to the car and drove off.

I'm in trouble and so are you, I said closing the door behind me.

She won't call my mother, Mimi said.

I shrugged. Did they ever meet before?

I don't think so. What promise did you make to her?

Two years ago, I promised that I wouldn't sleep with you again until I was much older, I explained. But I'm an adult now. She can't keep controlling my life.

Like you do to T.K., Mimi blurted out.

I looked at her in the eye. Do you really mean that?

She remained quiet for a minute before replying, Of course not.

You're lying. I can tell, you go through pain to lie to me.

Matt I.... I'm sorry.

I'm going for a walk, I said as I took my coat and walked out into the rain.

***

A familiar voice called out. Wait up!

I turned around to see a girl with golden blond hair and green eyes staring at me. Hi Shila.

How come your out in the rain? Shila asked as she put an umbrella over my head.

I shrugged.

I'm here if you want to talk.

I don't want to talk, especially to you.

Fine, be a jerk. I don't think you deserve the Crest of Friendship with that attitude.

Do you mean that?

No, I just thought it sounded tough. Plus it got your attention.

Listen, I'm not in the mood to talk. I just want to be alone.



Because I am a screw up.



It's none of your business.

It can be my business if you would tell me.

Why do you want to know about my screwed up life? I demanded, stopping for the explanation.

Because, you are a friend of Joe's and I want his friends to be happy.

It is really none of your business.

Everyone's right, you don't think you are worthy of your crest.

Who told you that?

I'm not sure.

Tell me!

It doesn't matter who told me, the only thing matters is your problem, Shila said softly.

I almost told her, but restrained myself. I don't want to talk about.

What did you and Tai fight about when you were younger?

Who told you we fought a lot?

Sora did. She also said a lot of other things, but I'm not going to say it because you might get more upset.

Sora? Why would Sora talk about me? She has always been the one who respected my feeling and understood what I was going through. She's also the one who stuck up for me when I was younger and made me feel part of the group. Sora also took care of T.K. and made him feel special, something I never could do.

It was as if Shila could read my thoughts. Yes, Sora told me everything about your parents splitting up to how you don't feel worthy of your crest.

I stood there stunned.

I can help you Matt, She whispered into my ear. She leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. She tried to stick her tongue into my mouth, but I pushed her away.

I can't do this, I love Mimi too much! I ran away, back to my house.

***

-Mimi, I don't want to talk about it!

Mimi said walking away from Matt, who turned the other way and headed to where T.K., Joe, Izzy, and Shila sat.

What's wrong? Are you and Matt still fighting about the mall thing?
Mimi shook her head and said, I don't want to talk about it.

I replied, understanding my friends needs. By the way, your Mom called my house looking for you.

Oh no, what did you say?

I said that you were over.

Thank you Sora.

You're welcome. Lets go, everyone else is waiting for us.

I joined the circle, I sat between Mimi and Tai. Tai sat next to Izzy, who sat next to Matt, who sat next to T.K., and he, of course, sat next to Kari, Kari sat beside Joe, and he sat next to Shila, and Shila sat next to Mimi.

Tai leaned over to me and whispered into my ear, Why aren't Matt and Mimi sitting next to each other?

I leaned back over and replied, I respect their feelings, I don't want to blurt out anything, plus I have no idea why.

Tai nodded and then returned back to staring at Matt. I saw Matt meet Tai's eyes, but he quickly put his head down.

I should inform everyone that Joe and I are getting much stronger. It only takes a few seconds for our candles to light up, Izzy reported.

Matt and I tried last night, Mimi said looking towards Matt. He met her glance, but quickly put his head back down. We also got our candles to light fast. That was only the second time we had ever done that.

Izzy began to think, I could tell because he stared down at the ground. He lifted his head up and his eyes lit up. It is probably because you and Matt have already unleashed Sincere Friendship, so it comes more naturally.

Joe spoke next. I have the feeling the digimon who will try to destroy Reliable Knowledge will be coming soon. I mean look at the stats, it was six months between Endoimon and the unknown digimon who tried to destroy Hopeful Light. I think this is a pattern.

I wonder how the digimon will try to kill us? I mean, he can't very well use the same methods that were used for Sincere Friendship and Hopeful Light.

I glanced towards T.K. and Kari who blushed a little. I next looked towards Matt, who seemed to be fighting himself inside, his eyes would water, but then he would make it go away. He's acting strange today. I'll talk to him later, he might tell me what's wrong. I know he trusts me.

Who wants to get some ice cream? Joe asked.

That would be great Joe, Kari said.

I'll see you guys later, Matt said leaving the circle.

I stared at him as he walked away. I have to talk to him!

Sora, aren't you coming? Asked Tai.

I can't, I told my mom I would be home early to help her with the store.

Tai said a little disappointed. I'll see you later?

I'll call you tonight, I said, giving him a kiss on the cheek.

I began to walk towards the street, to my right of Matt. I waited for the others to pile into some cars and drive away. After they were out of sight, I ran after Matt. I caught up to him quickly and put my hand on his shoulder. He turned around, I smiled. Hi Matt. Can I talk to you?

Why? So you can get more dirt on me and share it with the world? I think I'll pass, Matt said angrily as he crossed the street.

What are you talking about?

Matt rolled his eyes. Please Sora, just leave me alone. Matt frowned and said, I thought I knew you better.

Wait Matt, what are you talking about?

But it was too late, Matt already was in his car and driving away.

***

Hi Joe, I said walking into his apartment that he rented from a friend of his while he was in town.

Hi Izzy, ready to practice?

Yes. Where's Shila?

I'm not sure, I think she went out for some coffee.

I see. I took out my lap top and began to type furiously to check my e-mail. Hey, I have e-mail from Gennai!

Really, what does it say?

I looked at what it said and gasped. Tentomon and Gommamon are gone from the other digimon. We are probably being attacked soon!

Does it say when?

I don't know! I said, but then a purple light surrounded me, while a gray light surrounded Joe.

***

Kari, can I please change the show?

No, Tai. Why don't you go see Matt or Sora? I never-

Do you hear that?



Kari, I think it is the computer! I ran full speed to the study and saw the you have 1 new message' sign.

Who's it from?

It's from Izzy! I said as I clicked to read the message. He says all the digimon are gone, he also says it started out as Tentomon and Gommamon missing, but now they all are! Lets go to the Digital World! Kari, use your D3 to open the gate.

Wait Tai, shouldn't we get Matt and Sora to come over here? It would take them too long to go over to Davis' or T.K.'s house.

You're right! I'll also make sure T.K. gets Mimi to come over, than she'll be able to come too, I ran out of the study, towards the phone. I dialed Sora's number. Hi Sora?

***

I'll be over right away! I ran to my room and grabbed my Digivice. I have my Digivice, special clothes wait, I need my crest! I picked up the blue crest and slid it around my neck. Scribbling a note on the table, I left the house within two minutes. Shila, what are you doing here?

I came to see you. Can we talk?

I can't. Joe and Izzy are in the Digital World and need our help.

She put a pout on her face as she followed me to Tai's house. I knocked on the door and it opened immediately.

Hi Kari.

Come in Matt. We can't wait another minute, Kari said as I followed her inside. She turned around and noticed Shila for the first time. Hi Shila.

So, are Izzy and Joe already there? I asked as we entered the study.
Yes, they left the same way T.K. and I did.

I see. Hi Tai, I greeted as I strode over to the computer, trying to get as far away as I could from Shila. I looked to my right to see Shila standing there, staring at me.

Hi Shila, Sora said coldly.

Hi Sora, Shila said dully.

Lets go. Digi-Port Open! Kari yelled as she was sucked in.

I'm with you! Tai shouted, holding his Digivice out.

I motioned Sora to go next, but she shook her head. Go on Matt, don't keep them waiting.

I nodded as I held out my Digivice to the computer.

Well, we're back, commented Tai.

We waited a few minutes for Sora to come through. It's been five minutes, where's Sora?

I don't know Matt, Kari said as she held up her Digivice, but I can see Mimi and T.K.'s signals, they aren't too far away.

Just as Kari held out up her Digivice, Sora came through.

What took you so long? Tai asked.

I had something to take care of, Sora answered as she looked towards me.

Lets go find T.K. and Mimi, it should only be a fifteen minute walk, Kari said.

We started on our way, Kari and Tai leading the way. Sora walked in front of me, and I brought up the rear. She stopped and waited for me to catch up. I need to talk to you later.

I said looking straight ahead.

Please Matt I really do. It's about Shi-

Matt, Kari! T.K. yelled out as we approached the two Digidestined.

Hi T.K., Kari said giving him a hug.

I looked at Mimi who was talking with Tai. I can't stay mad at her, she's too innocent. I glanced at Sora. Why do these two always open their mouths? I guess I'll talk to Sora later, and Mimi too.

Hey Matt, T.K. said as he approached me. We began to walk, we're not sure where we are heading, but I'm guessing Tai has some brilliant idea. I understand you and Mimi are having an argument.

I nodded. T.K., it is really none of your business.

I know.

Who told you?

Nobody did, it's pretty obvious. Everyone can tell.

How do you know everyone knows? Was everyone talking about me after I left the group meeting yesterday?

T.K. shook his head. Of course not. I just see everyone noticing that you two weren't hand in hand like usual. So what are you two arguing about? Is it whatever happened at the mall?

How do you know about the mall incident? I demanded, but kept my voice quiet.

Sora told me. I also-

I didn't let T.K. explain the rest of whatever he had to say. I walked away and started to walk by myself. Sora again? What's with her?

***

While I was on my watch, I decided I would keep the fire going. I went over and found some dead logs by the stream. I walked back and put one of them in the fire and the other two by the edge, that way they would heat up and burn better.

Can I talk to you Matt?

I turned around and found myself staring at Mimi. I nodded my head and followed her out of the small clearing and more into the forest.

I'm really sorry..... about everything. I didn't mean what I said about T.K., you have been so much better about giving him space. You have been keeping your promise to me that you made last year. I really didn't mean what I said, I was just a bit frustrated because of what happened with your mom.

I walked over to her. It's okay, lets put it behind us.

Mimi nodded and put her arms around me. I did the same. We held onto each other in the dark night. I kissed her and she kissed me back. I love you so much Matt.

I love you too, I said putting my arms back around her. A small voice in the back of mine shouted: tell her, tell her! Mimi I have to-

Hey Mimi, can I talk to Matt for a second?

Mimi looked at Sora with a funny look. She replied and looked back at me. I'll see you in the morning. Make sure you wake me up on time for my watch Sora, don't try to do both shifts again.

Sora nodded and stayed staring at me until Mimi was back at the group.

I really wanted to say Matt..... is I'm sorry for the misunderstanding.

What misunderstanding? What's your problem Sora? Do you like to share my life story with the world? Is my life really that screwed up that it's that much fun to share with everyone? Is it funny when I had an argument with Mimi?

No.... of course not. It's just..... you don't get it!

I have no idea what you are talking about, but I don't want to hear it, I said angrily, heading back in the direction of camp. I turned back around. I have always trusted you and have always looked up to you because of your bond with T.K.



***

Joe, would you look at that, Izzy exclaimed, staring at the enormous house.

I'm guessing this where the battle will start.

***

I can see Izzy and Joe's signal on my D3, T.K. said excitedly,they aren't too far away.

You're right T.K., Kari said as she hugged him and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

Lets go, I have a feeling they aren't moving from that spot for a reason, Tai said leading the way with Sora at his side.

T.K. and Kari laughed between themselves as Mimi and I brought up the mirror.

You know Matt, Mimi said as she walked beside me, I think when we get back, it's time for another shopping spree.

I groaned. As long as it is just with you.

No, it would be all of us, Tai, Sora, T.K., Kari, Joe, Shila... who am I forgetting?



Yes, even though he only goes to the mall for the computer shop.

I laughed. Tell her, tell her. Mimi, there's something I need to tell you.

What is it?

It is about Shi-

Izzy, Joe! Tai exclaimed running toward the two boys who were standing in front of a large house.

Hi guys! We were just going to go in when Izzy noticed your signals, so we waited for you, Joe explained.

Shall we go inside? Izzy asked shutting his lap top.

I think so, the faster we beat him, the faster we get out of here, T.K. pointed out.

Lets go! Tai said following Izzy and Joe into the house.

I feel like an ant, Joe confessed, walking into the giant sized room.

Who could live here? Sora asked.

Somebody who really likes coffee, I answered pointing towards a huge coffee pot in the middle of the room.

This seems to be the only room in the house, Mimi said, and it looks like a coffee shop.

You're right, Said a voice coming from a top of the huge counter. I love coffee.

Who's there? I demanded.

I am, Said a small figure compared to the size of the counter. The figure jumped off the counter and landed right in front of us.

The digimon, or should I say human, had jet black hair and eyes. He looked directly at Sora and then over to Izzy and Joe.

You're the strange man at the coffee shop! Sora exclaimed looking towards Joe. I told you I wasn't crazy.

I'll say sorry later. How can you be human?

That's an easy explanation, I'm not, The man said. He began to grow a few feet taller and his skin went to an army green color. I'm Gorhiomon!

Use Reliable Knowledge, T.K. yelled to Izzy and Joe.

Right. They sat down in front of the confused digimon and began to concentrate. A gray and purple light went into a large beam, aimed straight for Gorhiomon.

Master told me they didn't have that power yet, Gorhiomon cried out as he vanished, Loving Courage is next!

We already figured that out! Tai shouted to the air.

Way to go Joe, Gommamon said as he sprang down from the counter top. Not too far behind him Tentomon and the other digimon came down.

Lets go, I don't like this place, Sora said, leading the way out.

Look, a TV! T.K. said running up to it. Digi-Port open!

***

Ouch, T.K., get off of me, I said, pushing him off.

You're back already? Shila asked as she walked in the room staring at the us who were piled on top of each other. Mrs. Kamiya followed her.
We all got up.

Lets go and celebrate, my treat! Joe said.

We left the apartment with Tai and Kari trying to reassure their mother.

That reminds me, I can't go today, I said stopping as the others turned around.

Again Matt? Tai asked.

Unlike you, I have to work a couple days of the week this summer in order to keep living with my dad until we go to college this fall.

Okay, I'll see you later, Tai said as the others headed for the subway.
I crossed the street and headed for my apartment. Now where is my key?

Oh Matt, Shila said running up to me. You dropped your key at Tai's apartment.

Oh. Thanks Shila, I started to unlock the door, but stopped. Please Shila, just leave me alone. I happy with Mimi.

Why should you be happy with her? Shila asked, taking a step forward.

Your friends aren't who they seem. They talk about you all the time. Like the other day when you didn't come to get ice cream with us, they talked about how you shouldn't get the Crest of Friendship because you are so anti-social.

You are such a liar.

I am not. Didn't you notice how none of them cared whether or not you came with them today? They could have cared less, in fact, after you left, Mimi confessed she has a crush on Izzy and is planning to dump you tomorrow.

I could feel my face pale and my heart rip in two.

I can make it all better, Shila said as she leaned up and pressed her lips against mine. She slid her tongue in my mouth with a struggle, but did manage to push it in.

I panicked as I pressed myself against the door of my apartment. I can't do this. Mimi, Mimi, Mimi. Stop it Shila.

Yes Shila, stop it, Sora said angrily as she walked towards us. She pulled Shila's arm and her body away from me. Stop it now!

Mind your own business Sora!

No, Matt is my friend. This sick game has to stop.

She looked nervously toward me. What game?

Stop it! Sora screamed out as she slapped Shila across the face.

You are such a bi-

What's going on? I demanded.

Sora grabbed Shila's arm again and began to twist it. Tell him the truth!

Ouch... okay I will, but let go of me! Shila yelled yanking her arm back.

I'm sorry Matt, but I lied to you. About Sora. I told you she told me everything, but she didn't tell me anything no matter how much I begged her.

Than how did you know about my parents and stuff?

Joe told me.

Sora grabbed her arm, Tell why Joe told you.

She said yanking her arm back, Joe told me because I begged him and tricked him into telling me the information. I can get anything out of people with the right words.

I stared at her. Why would you do that to me?

Ever since I met you six months ago, you seemed like the lonely boy, the opposite of Joe. You seemed like the kind of guy who's emotional, but wouldn't let anyone get into his feelings, except maybe that ditsy girlfriend of yours. I thought I could manage to get you to turn your back on your friends, then I would have had a little bit of fun, Shila said with a grin on her face.

I looked at her and said, You are pathetic. Were you trying to make my crest worthless? Were you trying to put the Digital World in danger? You have no idea what you have done. Go away.

Shila said as she walked to the subway station.

I leaned my body back against the door.

I should go, Sora said quickly as she walked away.

Please Sora, will you stay? I asked unlocking the door.

She turned around.

I lead her inside. I quickly went to the beeping light on my answering machine. I pressed the button and waited for the message to play. You have one new message. Beep. Matt, it's your mother. Please phone me back later. Have you gone to the Digital World yet?

Sora sat down on the couch.

Want anything?

Sora nodded her head. I want things to be like before. I'm sorry you had to hear that, but I couldn't stand the fact that you were mad at me.

I'm really sorry too. I should have listened to you before running off like that.

Did you mean what you said? About how you look up to me?

I nodded my head, blushing a bit. You were the one who made T.K. feel special in the Digital World, something I wasn't good at. You also made me feel needed when I was going through the hard times. You were the one who cared for everyone, I trusted you, I mean, I trust you. I always have and always will.

Thanks Matt, Sora said standing up smiling. She held out her hand.



I held my hand out.

We stood there, shaking our hands. I moved and hugged her, it was long and comfortable.

I guess I should get back with the others, I told them I was following Shila to help her find the right ice cream parlor after she gave you your key.

I'll come with you after I give my mom a quick call.

I thought you had to work.

No, that's just one of my famous excuses to be alone for a while. I knew if I said work, Mimi wouldn't get all anxious.

She really does love you. So do I, I mean as a friend, Sora confessed blushing.

Me too, I said as I picked up the phone.

***

Hi Mom, I said sitting down.

Matt, I was so worried when I came home from work and T.K. said he was needed in the Digital World. I always get so scared when you have to leave.

Don't worry, it was the fastest defeat yet. It only took one day, that's our record!

So, why did you want to talk to me?

Look, about the other night. Just for the record, I wasn't sleeping with Mimi. We had some things to take care of and we got tired and fell asleep.



I wasn't. Plus, I'm older now. I can make my own decisions, you have to stop worrying about me. I kept my promise, and now I am older.

Did you really keep your promise? Because what I understand was last year in the Digital World, you and Mimi had quite a time.

Right Mom, it was really nice falling unconscious for eight days and then falling into a coma for another week.

I cannot believe what you, your brother, and your friends go through to keep both worlds in harmony. I'm so proud of you.

I blushed. Hey, I'm not the star of the show. It's all of us together that make the difference. T.K. also plays a big role.

I know, Mom said standing up to get herself a coffee. She came back a few minutes later with two coffees. You know Matt, it really used to bug me that my son has to save the world. It almost feels part of my life now, even though I still worry. Though the worst time is when you came back and then you called me and told me you got Mimi pregnant. Now that made me upset.

I think that was a little more awkward for me. I took a sip of the coffee and blurted out, You must have been upset when T.K. told you he lost his virginity with Kari when placed under temptation.

I looked up to see her eyes grow wide.

You did know right?

She shook her head.

Shit!

I should go and find your brother, Mom said angrily as she got up and left.

I took another sip of my coffee and felt as if someone was watching me. I looked up. Hi Joe.

Joe sat across from me. Was that your mom who just stormed out?

I nodded.

What did you do now?

I looked at him. Why do you care? You would probably tell Shila everything like you did already.

I guess Sora told you.

Yeah, but I don't blame you, I blame Shila.



I guess she never told you.

Told me what?

Joe, Shila came onto me. She tried to kiss me, but I didn't let her.

Joe looked at me, but didn't seem upset. It was as if he already knew.

Are you sure she was trying to kiss you? I mean I know she can be a flirt sometimes..... are you sure?

I'm sorry Joe. She came onto me and told me that Sora was talking about me behind my back. Sora made her confess yesterday when you guys went to celebrate. She told me her reason. It was because she could tell I'm the kind of guy who doesn't have a lot of self confidence and thought it would be fun to mess around with my head.

I see, Joe said staring at the table.

Hi Joe I- Shila stopped dead as she saw I was sitting there. Hi Matt.

I've got to go, I said standing up. I'll talk to you later. No hard feelings?

Joe shook his head. I'll see you tomorrow Matt.

I left the couple and headed to the subway system. I purchased a ticket and was soon on the train.

***

Mimi opened the door.

I came in. I kissed her on the lips and set down the two bags.

Are you ready? Mimi asked.

Yes, I see you are already changed. Your parents aren't home are they?

If they were home, they would think I have gone crazy walking around half naked.

I followed her upstairs carrying my special clothes while Mimi carried our candles. I guess we will do this in your room?

Of course, She said, beginning to put the candles in the familiar circle around on the floor and our two in the middle.

I quickly changed into my pants and sat down in my spot as did Mimi. I witnessed her clutch her crest.

Mimi, I have to tell you something. I tried to twice, but we kept getting interrupted.

You can tell me anything.

Shila... she came onto me. She told me a bunch of lies about Sora and that's why I was acting funny around her. We settled it all out and right now Joe's either breaking up with her or fixing the problem.

Mimi stared at me, but put a smile on her face. I guess that's what I get for having such a cute boyfriend!

I rolled my eyes and stood up. She didn't do it because of that, she tricked me into thinking my friends didn't care about me. She saw me as a person with low self confidence, an easy target to trick.

I don't see you like that. So you may not have an ego like Tai, that's why I'm with you, Mimi stood up also. She strode confidently over and pressed her lips against mine. I see you as a guy who only cares about his friends and family.

She kissed me more and I stumbled back onto her bed, knocking a few of the candles down. She climbed on top of me, never stopping for breath. I moved up on her bed so my head was on her pillow. She rolled over to her side and I pushed over until I was on her. She placed my hand on her dress and pushed it up. I continued to kiss her in the dark of the night.

***

Hello everyone! Mimi said cheerfully.

Oh no, Mimi had too much sugar again, Tai joked.

Very funny, she mumbled sarcastically, but didn't lose her cheerfulness.

We sat down next to Tai and Sora.

Matt, do you know where T.K. is? Kari asked.

I looked at the younger girl. Lets just say he's in big trouble.

Sora asked.

He'll tell you himself, there he is walking with Izzy and Yolei, I pointed.

Hi everyone, Yolei said, mind if I join you?

Of course not, Mimi answered.

As usual, Yolei went all excited because of Mimi's appearance. I just love your hair! You're so pretty!

Izzy said. He stopped before sitting next to Yolei and asked,

Where's Joe?

He said he and Shila went to visit her parents, Tai answered.

T.K. took a seat by Kari, obviously he was in a bad mood. He looked up at me and said, I went through pure Hell last night.

I know.

Why did you have to open your mouth?

Look I'm sorry, but you did the same to me two years back.

Yeah, but still.

What's going on T.K.? Kari asked.

T.K. filled everyone in about how I told Mom by accident. Everyone, including me, had pity on him. Yolei's eyes went huge. You two are together?

Kari and T.K. looked at each other and smiled. For a long time, Kari replied.

I guess I should tell Davis to stop trying to get you.

You seriously didn't know? T.K. asked.

Lets get back onto topic guys, Tai said looking at Sora. We all know who's next on the digimon's list. Us.

Yeah. Did anyone else hear something about a master before Gorhiomon vanished? I asked to no one in particular.

I sure did hear that, Izzy said. I wish Joe were here, it doesn't feel the same without his sarcasm.

I wish so too. He seemed funny on the phone, he was talking weird, Tai added.

I know why, I stated.

What's up Matt? T.K. asked.

I told them about the situation with Shila, with Sora helping along the way. I concluded by saying, He must feel bad. I'm not mad at him at all.

That's so weird, Izzy said, I really thought Shila loved him.

I still think she does, but wanted some extra fun if you know what I mean, Tai said raising his eyebrow.

No doubt. So, what do we do in the mean time before Loving Courage's fight? I asked.

I don't know. I think the best thing everyone can do is practice, make the best of this summer, and just plain wait, Sora suggested.

I agree. Lets go make the best of this summer by having some pizza, Tai said standing up.

Hey Tai? I called. Do you think that Loving Courage will be the last fight? Or do you think we'll have more purposes in the Digital World?

I don't know Matt, but lets take one step at a time.

End of this one

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