A/N I'm trying to keep this a/n as organized as possible. Before I forget: I don't own digimon. #1:

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Now with that out of the system, explanation of this chapter so all of you people I lose, you won't get lost, I've included a road map this time!!! **deep breath** Here we go....

#2: This chapter takes place at Christmas so if anyone was anticipating the Busch Gardens trip and more Rika vs. her step/half family, it ain't happening. At least not in Busch Gardens. neways...this will be a bit of a "hop, skip, and jump" to December....say....mid- December. It's Christmas time around now neway so I just wanted to try my hand on a Christmas story so I can try my hand at it.....let's see...July maybe....lol....well...and prob a good paragraph in the story will explain what's happened with the whole gang in Shinjuku, Kila in Yokosuka, and Rika in America....since chapter 16 left off at neway.......

#3: Happy Holidays from me and the muses!

#4: I also split this up into 2 parts.....it's already at 17 pages and since i wanna give you a break between...okay, it's now up to 20 pgs.....when i hit 21 i'll separate it in2 3 parts...i just can't seem 2 end this....ended at: 23 pages

Summer(Winter)Vacation: Happy Holidays!!: Chapter 17:

Part 1

After Rika was forced to stay in America, she went to the public school nearby. On her first day of school, Rika had gotten up early, got dressed, ate breakfast, and went straight to the high school. As usual, she made no new friends and by lunchtime, she was sitting at a solitary circle shaped table with her books and her lunch bag.

"You're a brown bagger too? I just hate the disgusting lunch my mom gives me. Usually it's is never something edible...And sometimes, I'm afraid it might eat me."

This girl had black shoulder length frizzy hair and green eyes.

"I'm Maya Angelo. You're a freshman right?"

Rika nodded. Maya pushed a stray piece of curly hair out of her eyes.

"What's your name? I don't think we have classes together...Oh, wait, you're Rika Nonaka. I think we're in the same biology class. 2nd period?"

Rika nodded again.

"Okay. Well let me get some of my new friends over here. Yo, Kira, Alyssa, Krista, I got us some seats."

Three girls weaved their way through the cafeteria and put their trays down.

"This is Rika Nonaka."

"I know. I'm in all of her classes so far."

Rika recognized Kira from all of her classes so far, Krista from her English and Geometry, and Alyssa from her Biology and P.E.

"I'm the girl who gets stuck in the back of the room. Damn the alphabet. Why do they go by a last name basis anyway?"

Rika smirked.

"It's not my fault my last name starts with a 'W'."

(A/n I actually had this conversation....i sit in the back every beginning of the year)

The three other girls gave her a weird look and Kira fell silent. Krista had white blonde shoulder length hair with blue eyes and Alyssa had dark brown eyes and dark brown hair just above her shoulder. Kira had dark brown hair, nearly black which was held in a bun and deep brown eyes and reminded Rika of Kila a little.

"Kila- I mean, Kira, you from around here?"
"No. I just moved here last week."

"Oh, I see. Where are you from?"

"South Korea. Born but raised in Pennsylvania. I've got to go now. See you later!"

Kira lifted her tray from the table and took her backpack, putting it over her shoulder, but a small thing fell on the chair.

"I'll see you later."

She headed to the trash can and dumped her tray and headed through the swinging doors. Rika looked at the thing Kira dropped. It was a cassette tape.

"I've got to head to the library. I think I left my biology book in there."

Rika grabbed her bag and headed out, receiving bewildered looks from Maya, Alyssa, and Krista.

***

Rika entered into the library and went to a solitary corner near a large window. She had on the seat and took out a tape player and slid the cassette inside it. She plugged her headset in and pressed play. She then heard one of the most sad, but enchanting voices she had ever heard.

Is this the kind of music Kira listens to?

Somewhere over the rainbow

Way up high,

There's a land that I've heard of

Once in a lullaby.

Somewhere over the rainbow

Skies are blue,

And the dreams that you dare to dream

Really do come true.

Someday I'll wish upon a star

And wake up where the clouds are far

Behind me.

Where troubles melt like lemon drops

Away above the chimney tops

That's where you'll find me.

Somewhere over the rainbow

Bluebirds fly.

Birds fly over the rainbow.

Why then, oh why can't I?

If happy little bluebirds fly

Beyond the rainbow

Why, oh why can't I?

As the voice faded out, Rika stopped the tape. The bell's ring pierced the air, leaving Rika no time to find Kira and return the tape. Rika rushed out of the library and headed to find Room 331, History, which was on the opposite end of the school. Rika raced through the emptying halls and slid right across the freshly mopped floor. She threw her hand out and caught the frame of Room 331 just as Kira was entering.

"This your stop?"

Rika glared at her. She stalked past her and went to the back of the room and took a seat next to the window. Rika saw that Kira and she were the one of the last ones in and the only available seat Rika saw was right next to her. Kira didn't even see the seat and a boy with dark chocolate brown hair with a faded red baseball hat on his head took the seat.

"You like history much?"

"No."

"Then we're in the same boat. My name's Evan Cole."

"Excuse me, no hats allowed on in my classroom."

Evan scowled and took off his hat. Kira had seated herself in the last available seat, right in front of Rika.

"My name's Mrs. Kara. I'm your History teacher. This year we will be..."

Rika propped her head up on her hand and watched the rest of the class nodding off to sleep as Mrs. Kara began talking. Rika decided to let her eyes slip shut for a minute.

"RIKA NONAKA!"

Rika jolted out of her sleep.

"Present."

"Yes, I've already clarified that, Miss Nonaka. Have you heard a single thing I've said?"

"Um, yeah."

"Then, I suggest you answer the question or you'll receive detention for not paying attention."

Rika paled slightly. Detention on her first day? Evan gave her a sympathetic smile and then, someone hissed '1914.'Rika looked at Kira, who had just whispered the answer. Was that right to whatever was just asked?

"1914?"

"Are you asking or answering?"

Rika nodded.

"Answer the question!"

"Answering."

"That would be correct. Now, what was one of the first major events that took place during this period?"

Kira raised her hand.

"Archduke Francis Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated."

"That's correct. Now, please open your books to page 10. Julie, please begin reading."

Rika watched the clock. Only 25 more minutes to go. After Julie had finished reading, Mrs. Kara spoke again.

"Before we continue on, in 2 weeks, your project or report on World War I will be due. You will present the project before your classmates. I will pick the groups of three that you will be working with. I will make these arrangements before we continue on."

Mrs. Kara pushed her black glasses up the bridge of her nose and began reading off the groups.

"-And finally, Rika Nonaka will be paired with Evan Cole and Kira Wagner. I expect you to get together with your groups on your own. See me after class for your subject that you will be researching."

Rika had been watching the second hand, seeing there was only 10 minutes left when her eyes widened.

"Rika, please pick up from where Julie left off."

Rika searched the page.

"We would like to finish this before class is over, Miss Nonaka, or you will all have to complete this lesson as well as the next, outlining each and answering the questions, for homework."

Evan hissed where they had left off and Rika began reading. The bell rang as soon as they had completed reading the section and answering the questions orally.

"I would like you to outline this section and the next and answer the questions in your notebook for tomorrow."

Most of the kids began picking up their books. Kira stopped in front of Rika's desk.

"What do you want?"

"Well, I did save you from detention and the wrath of Mrs. Kara."

"I didn't ask for your help nor did I need it."

"Is that so? Well, I expect since you know history so well, you can deal with Mrs. Kara the next time you fall asleep."

Rika scowled as Kira spun on her heel and went to ask Mrs. Kara for her project assignment. She came back shortly after, brushing past Rika as she headed to the door and told Evan their subject.

"Why don't we meet today?"

"We can't meet at my house."

"Well, we can meet at Rika's. Is that good for you?"

"No, we can't meet at my-"

"Hey, Rika. You guys going to come over and work on your project?"

Jacob approached the threesome.

"Yes, Jacob. We were going to but since we can't, I suppose we can just go to the library."

"No need. You guys can come over. Nothing's going on."

Kira looked at Jacob strangely.

"Are you two related?"

"Step siblings. Well, see you later."

Jacob smiled at Kira before leaving the classroom. Rika glowered at her step brother's interruption and invitation.

"So, we'll just meet you after school and we can walk to your house?"

Kira nodded in agreement with Evan and left for her next class.

"Yeah, it's in walking distance. Well, I've got to get to my next class."

"What is it?"

Rika looked at Evan strangely.

"Why do you care? It's music/speech/theatre."

"Oh, wanna walk together? I've got that next too."

"I guess. Since we're going the same way and I have no idea where it is-"

"It's in the auditorium. Let's go."

Rika walked in step with Evan as they weaved through the crowd in the hall. They reached the auditorium in minutes and went down the aisle toward the stage where kids were seating themselves at desks. Evan snagged a desk in the last row and Rika sat in front of him.

"Afternoon, class. I'm Mr. Thomas. These first two weeks, we'll be learning about Broadway play which was based on a book and later, turned into a movie. This would be the Wizard of Oz. Then, we may even do a scene from the play. Also, I'm in charge of the Drama Club. Our first meeting is after school today and auditions for Dorothy will take place. So, if any of you are interested, sign up with me after class. You'll need to be able to sing a song of your choice from the play and you'll need to read some lines as well. Any questions as I pass out one of the more well-known songs from the play?"

No one raised their hands and Rika prepared herself to be bored.

***

After class and after the bell rang, signaling the end of the day, Kira came up to Rika and Evan.

"I can't come right after school. Can you two wait for me in the library?"

Rika was about to say no when Evan nodded.

"Okay, thank you so much. Try-outs sound fun."

"Yeah, if you like all that junk."

Kira glared at Rika.

"Well, I love all that "junk" as you have so nicely named it. I'll see you in ten minutes. I asked Mr. Thomas to let me go early so we can start work on our project sooner."

"How convenient of you."

Rika pushed past Kira. She went towards her locker, thankful the day of misery was over.

"Rika?"

Rika turned from her locker to face Evan.

"Wanna watch Kira try-out? We aren't gonna do much in the library."

Rika groaned.

"Sure, why not? Let's go watch her humiliate herself. I'm in."

"You could give her a break. It's everyone's first day and she's new around here. She's trying to be nice to you too. She saved you in History."

"I didn't need to be saved. I knew the answer."

"You were sleeping."

Rika blushed in embarrassment but then glared at him.

"Go away. I'll meet you in the auditorium."

"Okay."

Evan turned back in the direction of the auditorium with his backpack slung over his shoulder. Rika took her time getting the rest of her books, picked up her backpack, and slammed the locker shut. Just as she was ready to go past the auditorium doors and go outside, her eyes widened as she heard that voice from the cassette tape singing. The enchanting and sad voice she had recalled as beautiful. Rika pushed open the auditorium doors and saw Kira on stage with a microphone in hand. Rika's mouth dropped open slightly.

"Rika, you got here just in time. Doesn't she sound awesome?"

Rika was speechless. The mysterious voice belonged to Kira??

"Thank you, Miss Wagner. That was...quite good."

Kira smiled brightly before thanking him. She grabbed her bag and went to meet Evan and Rika at the back.

"What did you think? I sound okay?"

"You sounded-"

"Horrible. That was the worst I've ever heard."

Kira looked hurt and she looked into Rika's eyes.

"Why do you hate me, Rika? I'm trying to be nice to you."

"Well, your "act" isn't working for me. So, get over it."

Part 2

Kira's eyes began to fill with tears as she raced out of the auditorium.

"Why'd you say that to her? She only wants to be your friend."

Rika was taken aback by her own actions as well. Why was she being so nasty lately?

"Look, can you go find her? I left a book in my locker. I'll meet you outside on the steps."

Rika nodded and went in search for her. She went to the girls' bathroom first and found Kira wiping her eyes at one of the sinks that lined the wall.

"Kira, look-"

"Let's just go, okay? I don't need you to insult me anymore."

Kira roughly pushed past Rika and out of the bathroom. Rika was silent, annoyed at how Kira had been so rude but knew she had deserved it. By the time she had made it outside, Kira was already waiting with Evan on the steps.

"There you are. Now we can go."

Evan grinned at her. Rika nodded and they headed to her house.

"You have the Internet, right? Cause we can do a lot of research online then."

"Of course. Here we are."

Rika went to her door and unlocked it with her key. As soon as she pushed open the door and ushered Evan and Kira inside, Boomer came bounding down the stairs.

"Evan, close the door!"

Evan turned to shut the door but Boomer veered away from the door and threw himself at Kira, knocking both of them down. Rika waited for Kira to start screaming but the screams never came. Instead, laughter met Rika's ears.

"What a good dog. You're so cute too."

Kira began scratching the dog behind the ears as she sat up.

"Sorry about that."

"Did you somehow tell your dog in advance to attack me?"

Rika was about to reply sarcastically when she saw the smile on Kira's face.

"Yup, while I was opening the door, I told him to attack in sign language."

Rika smirked.

"Ah, you're smart too. What's your name?"

"His name's Boomer."

"I love him."

"Can we get started now?"

"Sure, Evan. Let's go upstairs."

Kira trailed after Evan and Rika and whistled for Boomer. Rika opened her door and put her bag on the floor and turned on the computer.

"Do you guys have your history books?"

Evan held up his history book.

"What's our topic?"

Kira sat on the desk chair.

"The Russian Revolution. How bout you and Evan see what stuff you can find in the book and I'll look up stuff on the 'net?"

"Sounds good. Man, I'm starved. Have any snacks, Rika?"

"Yeah. I'll get us something."

"I'll help. Your 'puter's still booting up."

Rika left the room followed by Kira and they went down to the kitchen.

"Kira, I'm sorry for being mean to you today."

"Whatever."

Rika bit her lip slightly.

"I have your tape too. You dropped it at lunch. It's up in my backpack."

Kira nodded.

"Um, get some soda out of the fridge. I'll get us some snacks."

Kira nodded again and went to the refrigerator and took out 3 cans of soda while Rika got out a bag of chips and dip.

"I thought you sang really well on the tape."

Kira glared at Rika.

"You listened to my tape? That's private you know."

"I was just trying to be nice."

"You made your point, Rika. You don't want to be friends. I can dig that."

Kira picked up the sodas and went back upstairs.

***

After they had finished researching for the day, Evan had to go home for dinner and Kira went to leave.

"Kira, can't we be friends?"

"You made it clear enough, Rika. You don't want or need friends. I have to go home."

Kira went to open the door just as thunder crashed and suddenly, rain began to pour.

"You can't possibly walk home in that."

Kira groaned in realization, knowing how correct Rika was.

"Kira, you're welcome to stay for dinner and I'll give you a lift home afterwards."

Kira sighed.

"My mom's not home anyway."

"Well, why don't you and Rika complete any homework you have?"

Kira nodded and followed Rika upstairs. Rika sat on the bed and opened her biology book. Kira went to Rika's desk and looked at the group photo from that had been taken while Rika was at camp.

"Who are all these people?"

"Friends who live in Japan. We were planning on attending Shinjuku High this year."

"I'm sorry."

"Yeah."

"The one with his arm around you. He your boyfriend?"

"He's conceited and the biggest jerk in the world. So, naturally, he's my boyfriend."

Kira giggled.

"Who's that girl?"

Rika looked to see who Kira was mentioning and saw Kila.

"Um, one of my best friends, Kila Akihabara."

Kira nodded and placed the picture frame back on the desk.

***
After dinner, Rika walked Kira to the door. Kira was walking home for the rain had let up while they had been eating dinner.

"I'm sorry about everything, Kira. I really am. Especially for Lizzie who "dropped" the spaghetti all over your white jeans."

Kira winced as she looked down at the red-splattered pants.

"It's okay. I'll just have to bleach them. Maybe we can be friends after all, Rika."

Kira waved and left.

Rika thought about what Kira said last.

Maybe, just maybe, we can. But, no matter how many friends I happen to make that I trust, I'm still going back and I'm definitely going home for Christmas.

***

Henry sat at lunch, silently, across from Ryo and next to Takato.

"You still bummed that Kila hasn't written you?"

Henry just stared glumly at the cafeteria food. He stabbed some of the stuff that didn't look like it had once moved and lifted it off the tray.

"STOP!"

Kazu slammed his tray on the table.

"What?"

"That stuff is poisonous. You could die a horrible death just over a girl."

"A girl that means the world to me."

"C'mon, dude, she doesn't play that big of a part in your life, does she?"

Henry was silent again.

"Guess I'll take that as a yes."

"Jodie's a big part in yours, isn't she?"

"Aren't I, Kazu? Would you chance eating cafeteria food to prove how much you love me?"

Kazu pulled his visor low to hide his eyes and shadow his face.

"No comment. I love you but I don't know if I'd exactly die for you..."

Jodie folded her arms and turned away from Kazu.

"Hmph..."

Kazu smiled.

"I was just kidding, Jo."

Jodie smiled.

"Maybe she found someone else or something."

"Are you kidding, Henry? Kila loves you more than anything."

"Maybe you're wrong, Takato..."

"Give Kila some credit! If you could be any more depressing, Henry... Kila's probably settling in and missing you more than anything, Henry."

Henry looked at Jeri and just shook his head and sighed, sinking lower in his chair.

"Poor Henry. He misses her."

"Well, you miss Rika, don't you, Ryo?"

"It's not the same, Jeri. It's the end of November and Henry hasn't heard from Kila since August."

Jeri sighed. Henry's eyes were downcast as he stared at the lunch tray. He never knew how much he could miss one person.

Could it possibly be true? Could Kila not love me?

Part 3

So, it came to past, on December 23rd, Rika was on her flight home. She would be taking a train from Yokosuka to Shinjuku. And, Rika had just been chatting online with Jeri before she'd left. She said everyone was dying to see her and missed her a lot. But, one of the more disappointing things was Kila had never called her since that day over the summer. She'd come online a few times but never called. It was really no big deal but it still hurt. Ryo and Jeri had both called as often as their parents would allow. Henry had called 3 or 4 times but the conversations had lasted 2 hours at times.

"We are now landing in Yokosuka. Please, buckle your seat belts."

After Rika checked through customs, she went out of the airport terminal and got a taxi do the train station. After buying her ticket and boarding the train she entered into a car which was completely empty.

"1 minute till train depart."

A girl collapsed in the seat beside Rika on the aisle side.

"I made it. You don't mind me sitting here, do ya?"

Rika didn't look up and shook her head.

"Oh my God!"

"What's wrong now?"

Rika looked up and saw black colored eyes and a smile slowly spreading across the girl's face.

"Kila?"

"It's you, Rika! I can't believe it! I missed you and the others so much!"

"Why?"

"You didn't know? No one ever told you? I'm sorry I never told you."

"Never told me what?"

"My mom moved me to Yokosuka. I haven't seen anyone since the day I left."

"Wow, I didn't know."

"I'm just so happy to see you, Rika. Why are you in Yokosuka?"

"My father made me stay in America."

"I didn't know this either. My mom kinda forced me to stay off the internet. She said the only way I'd get used to our new living situation is if I didn't talk to my friends anymore. I was completely miserable."

Rika nodded and they both fell silent.

"You have your digimon cards?"

"Yeah."

"Wanna play the card game? I haven't played in ages. How's Renamon?"

"I'm fine."

Kila looked over at Renamon, standing near the window.

"Where's Wolfmon?"

"In the baggage car. How's your living situation in America?"

"It's better. I guess. Jacob's much nicer to me. I'm not sure if it's because he's dating a friend of mine or he just turned over a new leaf. Lizzie's been a little less evil than she usually is. She finally stopped trying to be nasty to me and we're developing a trust in one another."

"That's great. I'm so happy for you. Have you talked to anyone in awhile? I haven't. I never even got to talk to Henry since August. I sent him e-mails at school but he never returned them..."

Kila's put her head down and sighed. Rika could offer no comfort as she wondered herself why Henry never wrote Kila.

"Maybe he doesn't like me after all... Why else wouldn't her return my e-mails?"

"Don't say that, Kila. I bet he's still lovesick over you. Maybe your e-mail got messed up."

"But the e-mail I sent to Jeri worked and the one I sent worked for you too..."

Kila sighed heavily.

"Suddenly, I'm not in the mood to be playing the card game. I'll be back. Gonna smuggle Wolfmon from the baggage car."

Kila stood up and left their compartment.

"She seems fairly sad, Rika."

"I know, Renamon. But, there's nothing I can do. I'm just worried that..."

"That what, Rika?"

"Maybe Henry did move on. I mean, Kila has been gone for awhile and those long distance relationships never seem to last."

"But I remember when those two were together. They were incredibly happy."

"I know, Renamon. Just give me some time to think."

"I'm back."

Kila opened the compartment's door and Wolfmon appeared next to her as she closed the compartment door. She still looked glum as she sat down in the seat. Wolfmon stared out the window.

"Approximately less than a half hour till we reach Shinjuku again, aren't you happy, Kila?"

Kila didn't answer Wolfmon as she stared blankly out the window.

"Kila, are you okay?"

"Just fine, Wolfmon."

"I can't wait to see my mom and my grandmother. It's been nearly six months since I've seen them last."

"I wish I hadn't seen my mom for more than 6 months."

Rika sighed. Kila just wasn't cheering up.

***

"Please stand clear of the doors, we have arrived at Shinjuku. Please stand clear of the doors."

Rika stretched as she stood and Kila opened the compartment's sliding door. As they got off the train and got their bags, they saw two people approaching them.

"Rika, you're back!"

Ryo said nothing as he gave her a hug.

Jeri turned to the girl with the dark hair who seemed familiar.

"Kila?"

The girl cocked her head to the side, with a faint smile on her face.

"It really is you! I barely recognized you!"

Jeri wrapped Kila in a bear hug and Rika saw Kila's face brighten a little as she chatted with Jeri.

"I've missed you, Wildcat."

"Hmph, I didn't miss your annoying ways... But I did miss the boy I left behind."

Ryo grinned and put an arm around her.

"Two minutes off the train and all chummy again, hm?"

Rika frowned as Kila and Jeri giggled.

"Jeri, sorry I'm late!"

"You oughta be, Gogglehead, you missed the Digimon Queen's entrance."

"I missed you too, Kila. Hey, Rika, see you and Ryo are back together."

"Watch it all of you or I will rearrange your faces."

"Snappy as usual, I see. I didn't expect you to lose that, Rika."

"Where's the rest of the gang? Although, 3 out of 8 is better than none."

"The lazy goggleheads are probably at home."

"They didn't know you were coming back. Jeri only told me yesterday that Rika was coming back. No one knew Kila was coming back from Yokosuka."

Kila frowned.

"Long story. I'm here now and that's what counts, right?"

Jeri smiled and Takato nodded.

"Well, let's get your bags and your mom is waiting outside, Rika."

Rika nodded and after the five got the bags, they went outside where Rumiko Nonaka was waiting.

"Rika..."

Rumiko walked briskly towards her daughter and held her tightly.

"I missed you so much, sweetheart."

Rika tried to hold back any tears.

"I missed you too, Mom. A lot... But you're kinda cutting of the air I need in my lungs."

Kila, Takato, Jeri, and Ryo stood back from the reunion of mother and daughter. Rumiko slowly let go of Rika and kissed her head.

"Now, am I giving all of you rides home?"

"No, Takato and I are going to the ice cream parlor for a date. I'll call you tonight, Rika?"

"Okay."

"Bye, Kila. Bye, Ms. Nonaka."

Jeri pulled Takato by the hand and Takato waved before they disappeared around the corner.

"Could you give me a ride to the Jamison Bookstore? I'm working a shift there and it starts in about 15 minutes."

"Sure, Ryo dear."

Rika got into the passenger seat and Kila and Ryo got into the back after all of Rika and Kila's bags were loaded into the trunk. In about 10 minutes, Rumiko stopped outside the bookstore.

"This is your stop, Ryo."

"Thanks for the ride, Ms. Nonaka. Maybe you and I can get together or something tonight, Rika?"

"I'll call you then, Akiyama."

"Bye, Kila. Thanks again, Ms. Nonaka."

"Kila, where are you staying?"

"Dunno. My mom said she made arrangements, Rika."

"She's staying with us, sweetie. She'll be sleeping in the spare bedroom next to your room unless you'd want a roommate."

"It doesn't matter. Kila, Jeri was telling me all about the Winter Wonderland dance at the school tomorrow night. Sounds remotely interesting."

"Have fun at it. I know you and Ryo will have fun. And everyone else."

Kila sighed again and began to focus on something outside the window. After Kila and Rika were both settled into Rika's bedroom, Kila dozed off on the sleeping bag set up for her. Rika picked up her phone and punched in Jeri's number.

"Good afternoon, Katou residence, Jeri speaking."

"Hey, Jeri, it's Rika. Can you still invite people to that dance?"

***

"Dress shopping, aren't you excited, Rika dear?"

Rika grabbed Jeri by the arm and hissed in her ear.

"Why did I agree to bring my overly ecstatic model mother dress shopping?"

"Because a) you need a dress, and b) you want to look good for Rika, and c) we're taking Kila shopping for a dress."

Rika sighed. She had to pretty much BEG Kila to go shopping and to go to the dance.

"Henry's not gonna be there, right?"

"No, I don't think so but Jeri was kinda foggy on if he was or not..."

"I'll come. After all, I wanna see you and Ryo and all of our other friends have a good time."

Rika hated lying to Kila. The main reason was she didn't want Kila to be alone with her mother that night...Who knows how many outfits she could try on Kila. The other reason was Kila had been utterly miserable and Ryo had told her how much Henry missed Kila.

"This is a great little dress boutique. I'm sure you'll find a dress, Rika. Kila, we're looking for you too."

Kila smiled weakly at Rumiko's enthusiasm.

"This is perfect!"

Rumiko held up a silver satin gown that flowed straight down, with spaghetti straps and royal blue swirls going across the bottom.

"Well, go try it on. Rika, I think this would absolutely gorgeous on you."

On the hangar was a strapless pale purple silken gown that was fitted to the waist and flowed out slightly.

"Go and try those on, you two, and Jeri and I will look for accessories."

Rika's mother swept away before Rika could protest over the girliness of the gown. Kila followed Rika reluctantly to the dressing room and after they tried on the gowns, they came out of the dressing room stalls and stood in front of the mirror.

"You look great, Rika. Ryo's jaw will hit the floor for sure."

Rika nearly blushed but just frowned.

"I can't believe my mom's making such a big deal over this."

"Hey, you'd probably go in jeans and your heart t-shirt if she'd let you. Which she won't..."

"Hey, guys, your mom gave me these, Rika."

Jeri handed Rika a pair of lilac elbow length gloves and a lilac colored jacket to try on which had 3/4 sleeves and ended right below her ribcage. Kila got a pair of white gloves exactly like Rika's except for the color and a royal blue shawl. After Kila and Rika emerged in full outfits, Rumiko gushed over the dresses and the accessories.

"You two look like dolls! Now, we have to go buy you shoes."

Rika and Kila moaned simultaneously as they were dragged towards the largest shoe store one could ever find after they had purchased their clothes.

***

I won't bore you with the details
***

The night of the dance had arrived and Jodie, Jeri, and Lina were gathered at Rika's house. Lina's hair had grown longer since Rika had seen her last and Kila was playing hair stylist. Kila had started Lina's hair off in a French braid and used the hair from her neck down to the middle of her back to make dozens of braids with a pale ocean blue bead weaved into the middle of each, matching her gown which was pale blue. Jodie definitely fit the Christmas spirit with the dark green gown which had one wide strap and her red hair, which was placed in a bun and had 2 pieces framing her face.

"That dress is gorgeous, Jeri."

"Thanks, Jodie."

Jeri was wearing a simple yellow dress which had spaghetti straps made of tiny star type beads.

Kila moved onto Rika, who's hair had grown past her shoulders and to right above her elbows but still had the same type of cut at the bottom of her hair that she had when she was 13. Kila smiled.

"Your hair looks great like that but I see a few extra touches I can do."

Kila and Lina got to work with the 2 curling irons while Jodie went through Kila's "hair bag" and fished out two silver barrettes with a small amethyst jewel in each one. Kila took great care as she and Jeri brushed through the curls, giving Rika's hair a wavy look. Kila placed one barrette on each side of Rika's hairline.

"Now, it's Kila's turn."

Lina, Jodie, Jeri, and Rika began work on the protesting Kila and soon, Kila had her hair separated into 2 buns with 2 wavy pieces of hair on the sides of her face.

"You should look the best because you need all the boys drooling over you."

Kila rolled her eyes and they heard the doorbell.

"Girls, your dates are here."

The girls quickly got the rest of their stuff on and left Rika's room and headed to the door. The boys were already in the hall and Ryo was just coming in.

"You girls all look great."

Kazu grinned as he took Jodie by the hand. Takato smiled warmly at Jeri. Kenta began chatting with Lina, commenting on how beautiful she looked. Ryo smiled.

"You look absolutely gorgeous, Rika. Absolutely beautiful."

"Thanks. Is you-know-who coming?"

"Yeah. He said he'd meet me there only because I asked him too. A few girls asked him but he didn't want to go with a date."

"Rika, Ryo, get together for a picture."

Kila held up her digital camera.

"Everyone else got the pictures they wanted me to take. You two want any pictures together or with anyone else?"

Rika shrugged and Ryo nodded. Kila snapped 2 pictures of them in different poses.

"Now, all of you get together in the picture."

Rumiko took the camera from Kila and snapped a group picture, a girl group pic, and a boy group pic.

"Now, go on and have fun! Call me if you need rides home."

They all nodded and began the short walk to the banquet hall where everything was taking place. There was a large stone fountain in the center of the courtyard. At the center of the fountain was a large Christmas tree, magnificent and glowing radiantly. Rika saw Henry on the stairs. Rika's eyes widened and tugged on Ryo's arm and gestured with her head towards Henry and Ryo nodded.

"Kila-"

Kila was already halfway towards the stairs when she turned quickly.

"Come here for a sec."

Kila headed back towards them.

"What's up?"

Ryo began to stutter as Rika slipped away. She weaved through the crowds and ran up the stairs and cleared her throat as she held out her hand.

"Nice to see you again."

Henry turned and smiled.

"Good to finally see you. Where's Ryo?"

"Um, talking to someone. Look, here come Takato and the rest of the peanut gallery."

"You look really nice tonight, Rika."

"Same to you. Gotta find Ryo, I'll be back."

Rika left Henry as Takato, Jeri, and the others approached. Kila was still talking with Ryo when Rika came back.

"Let's go in now."

Rika and Ryo seized one of Kila's arms and dragged her through the courtyard, and we're just going past Henry and the others when-

"Hey guys!"

***

Henry stood with the gang, idly chatting after Rika left abruptly to find Ryo. When they returned, looking as if to sneak in with out detection. Jeri waved them over eagerly and Henry saw Rika turn slowly and Ryo began tugging the girl by the arm but he wasn't tugging Rika.

"Um, hi, Jeri. We'll-uh-meet you inside."

Henry saw a glimpse of the girl. She had dark hair and dark eyes. Their eyes nearly locked before Rika yanked her through the doors. Kila pulled away.

"What is up with you two? First, Rika, you drag me to this dance. Then, Ryo tries to distract me from something. What's going on?"

Rika and Ryo said nothing and there was an awkward silence.

"If you don't tell me what you're up to, I'll go right now."

"Please, stay, we're not up to anything."

Kila looked at them suspiciously as Takato and Jeri came in.

"This place looks awesome."

Jodie and Kazu agreed as they entered.

"Hey, Kila."

A boy with black hair and brown eyes came up to Kila.

"Hey, Jay."

"You look great. Wanna dance?"

The music was a faster beat.

"Sure."

Kila followed Jay out onto the floor where some people were dancing. Henry came in with Lina and Kenta. A girl named Emma, who had a huge crush on Henry came over and practically dragged Henry onto the dance floor.

"How are we gonna keep them apart till we think of something?"

"Ryo, I don't want to hurt my friends. They deserve to know what's going on."

Rika got up from the table.

"I'm gonna go and tell them."

Ryo sighed and stood reluctantly and followed Rika onto the dance floor. Rika saw Kila and Henry...dancing back to back.....but didn't see the other. Kila turned around at the same time Henry did and their eyes met.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?"

(A/N that is one of the STUPIDEST THINGS I've EVER written in a chapter.. ah well..)

Emma looked at Kila closely.

"I know you. You're Kila-something-or-other."

Kila sighed.

"Henry, I need to talk to you. I'll see you later, Jay. Nice to meet you, Emma."

Emma glared at her and Jay smiled at her and walked off into the crowd. Kila and Henry walked towards the door so they could have some privacy.

"I can't believe you actually moved on. No wonder you never wrote me. And to think that I was worried about you because I love you."

"I never wrote you? How can I write you when you never wrote me back? I figured you didn't want to talk to me and I can see why! You're flirting with every guy around! Why don't you and I just see other people? Oh wait, you already are."

Kila stood, shaking with rage.

"How could you say that?! Well, maybe if you like Emma so much, you should dance with her!"

"I think I will."

Henry turned his back on her and walked away, leaving her shaking with fury and tears.

"I really thought you loved me. How blind can you possibly get..."

Kila went through the doors, out into the square and seated herself on the fountain's edge. The only light provided were from the stars and the crescent moon and Kila just sat and cried.

***

Rika and Ryo rushed over towards the door, where they saw Henry and Kila last.

"I saw them. They had been right beneath the mistletoe."

Rika rolled her eyes.

"That's impossible. There's no one here!"

"Rika, Ryo!"

Ryo turned around and saw Henry approaching. Looking very angry.

"Hey, Henry. What's up?"

"You set me up. You knew Kila was going to be here, didn't you? Well, by the look on your face you did and SHE just blew up at me. What kind of person would say they love you and do that?"

Rika looked at Henry and chose her words carefully.

"What did you say to her exactly?"

Henry opened his mouth but all of the words were stuck in his throat.

"Um, she accused me of not writing her...then I was just getting all defensive....and I said she was flirting with all these other guys and....well, we just blew up."

Rika rolled her eyes hopelessly.

"Are you serious? You ARE two idiots! Ryo and I just saw how miserable you two were without being around one another and thought this would be a great Christmas present, you seeing one another, and you'd be HAPPY!"

"And you two were fighting under the mistletoe..."

"WILL YOU STOP IT WITH THE MISTLETOE!!!"

Ryo shut up quickly.

"I can't just go out and apologize."

"ARE YOU CRAZY?!?!?! I'm not going to deal with this. This is your relationship. You fix it. I'm done playing matchmaker...."

Rika grabbed Ryo's hand.

"Let's go out and dance."

A slow song was just starting to play and Ryo and Rika went out on the dance floor and began slow dancing like the rest of the couples on the dance floor. Henry sighed. Time to right the wrongs.

He ran outside and down the steps and he looked towards the fountain. But no one was there. He ran frantically to the other side and found a huddled form, head bowed and knees to the chest.

"Kila?"

***

"Can you believe this dance is almost over?"

"Not really, Takato. We still have exactly 8 minutes."

Jeri and Takato were sitting at one of the tables set up on the far right side of the gym.

"The life of the party is back."

Kazu slid into one of the seats, soon joined by Jodie, Lina, and Kenta.

"Ha, yeah right."

Kenta rolled his eyes.
"I haven't seen you two like all night."

Lina looked over at Jeri and Takato.

"I know! They were making out in one of the corners."

Jodie smacked Kazu in hopes of stopping the embarrassment for Jeri and Takato who both had a pink tint to their cheeks.

"That's not very nice, Kazu."

"Or maybe they spent all their night under the mistletoe..."

"KENTA!"

"Sorry!"

Lina rolled her eyes to the ceiling.

"You two are utterly hopeless. And this is how you are to one of your best friends!"

"Sorry, Lina."

"We're only kidding, Jo. C'mon, let's go dance."

"I've been dancing for the last 20 minutes...non-stop. Let's break and get something to drink. Any of you want anything?"

"Punch."

"Soda."

"Water."

"Lemonade."

"I'm so glad you all ordered similar things."

Jodie and Kazu left the table and headed in the direction of the refreshments.

"You both having a good time?"

"Yeah, we are, Jeri."

"Have either of you seen Henry or Kila?"

"I hope they didn't get into a fight.."

"Don't sweat it, Jeri. I'm sure they hooked up again."

"We're back. Lemonade for Jeri, punch for Takato, soda for Kenta, and water for Lina. And two punches for Kazu and I."

Kazu kissed Jodie's cheek.

"I think I have the best girlfriend in the world."

"I don't think so!"

"Neither do I."

"Well, I didn't ask for your opinion, now did I?"

***

"Kila?"

Henry came closer to Kila.
"Stay away! Just stay away from me."

"Kila, please.."

"Is that why Rika and Ryo dragged me here? Did you three plan this? I don't want to talk to you EVER AGAIN! I can't believe the person I love the most would betray me like that..."

Henry's anger flared.

"And are you innocent? Why do you think you can accuse me?!"

Kila sprang to her feet.

"Because it's the truth! The truth hurts, doesn't it? You hurt me, Henry. I don't want to have anything to do with you or the rest of the so-called friends I supposedly have."

Kila sat back on the fountain's edge.

"J-J-Just leave me alone."

Kila choked on her words through her tears as she sobbed silently. Henry seated himself next to her. He smiled weakly.

"I-I-I didn't mean what I said. About you flirting and everything. I know Jay's your friend and...I'm just sorry."

Kila just continued to cry before she spoke.

"I thought...I thought you trusted me. To know I'd never think to do that."

Henry sighed.

"I know. You're the most loyal friend and person I've ever known. I just don't know what happened to me..."

"If you don't know yourself, how do you expect me to know you? I care about you more than anything in the world, Henry."

Kila began crying again and Henry could feel his own heart break at the sight of her tears.

"I really am sorry."

Henry reached out to lay a hand on her shoulder but hesitated. Kila shook uncontrollably and Henry placed a hand on her shoulder and scooted over next to her and put his arm around her.

"Can you forgive me?"

Kila looked up at him, tears glistening in her eyes. She said nothing but threw her arms around his neck and laid her head on his shoulder and cried.

***

"Do you think I was wrong in doing that?"

"Doing what?"

"Telling Henry to fix his own relationship.."

"Rika, that's what he's supposed to do.."

Rika shrugged.

"This one goes out to all of you lovesick couples out there."

(A/N Enya-Only Time)
~*Who can say where the road goes,

Where the day flows?

Only time...

And who can say if your love grows,

As your heart chose?

Only time...

Who can say why your heart sighs,

As your love flies?

Only time...

And who can say why your heart cries,

When your love dies?

Only time...

Who can say when the roads meet,

That love might be,

In your heart.

And who can say when the day sleeps,

If the night keeps all your heart?

Night keeps all your heart...~*

"It's good song...Don't you think?"

"It's alright......"

Ryo kissed Rika's cheek.

"What's wrong?"

"It's nothing."

***

"Do you want to go inside now?"

Kila closed her eyes for a moment and opened her eyes and looked into Henry's eyes, with one of her searching stares.

"I love you. I'm sorry for being so defensive before."

Henry was taken aback by Kila's words and even more by her next action. She leaned in and kissed his lips hesitantly. Henry closed his eyes for a moment after the kiss.

"Wow..."

Rika and Ryo went through the doors and saw Kila and Henry sitting together on the fountain.

"We should turn the lights on and get the fountains going inside the fountain. It would look so-"

"Magical..."

"Actually, I was going to say like a movie..."

"Ryo, you are incredibly weird. But that's a pretty decent idea. And I see the controls for it."

"Well, let's get to work."

"Hm......shut off fountain...no...ah-ha! Lights, and fountain!"

Ryo flicked the switches on and a glow emitted from the fountain. Kila looked up to the stairs and Ryo and Rika hid behind a pillar.

"You think we should just give them what they want?"

Kila shook her head as she pulled Henry to his feet.

"It's what we want, silly."

Kila then wrapped her arms around Henry's neck and they leaned in at the same time and kissed. Rika took out her mom's digital camera and zoomed in and snapped the shot.

"Perfect. Wish we would've done that under the mistletoe.."

Rika smacked Ryo in the head.

"Will you stop with the mistletoe!!!"

"Well, can I just have one kiss under the mistletoe? It is tradition..."

"You and traditions....."

"But no one's here....It could be short..."

"Oh, alright-"

"YES!"

"But it's only if you'll shut up. Got me?"

"Yes, ma'am."

Ryo practically dragged her back to the mistletoe. Rika kissed Ryo on the lips.

~*CLICK*~

"Hey....you weren't supposed to get us on film!!"

Kila took the camera away from her face.

"Oops, my bad.."

"It's only fair..."

Rika glared at them.

"Well, we got a nice shot of you two *passionately* kissing."

"Shut up!"

Kila blushed like crazy.

"Do you two want to come over like we did over the summer? Just hang out?"

"Sure, Wildcat."

"I guess that be okay."

"Let's go then. Or should we wait for the gang?"

"Let's be nice and wait. The dance is gonna start coming to a close anyway."

"Hey, Rika!"

Jeri came rushing over followed by the rest of the gang.

"We're ready to go if that is why you're waiting. We all walking home together?"

"Yeah."

When they neared Rika's house, they went their separate ways.

"Are Dumb and Dumber hanging at your house, Takato?"

"Yeah...."
"And Lina and Jeri are coming over my house. Do you or Kila want to come over?"

"Nah. We're just gonna hang out at Rika's."

"Bye then. Talk to you tomorrow."

Everyone parted and Rika, Ryo, Henry, and Kila continued on their way. They went inside Rika's house and Ryo and Rika stayed out in the garden while Kila and Henry went inside. They went to sneak past the kitchen.

"Hi, you two. I see you're back together."

"Yup."

"I think it's time for a picture."

Kila moaned but Henry interrupted.

"We'd like to have a picture but we're kinda tired. Merry Christmas!"

Henry and Kila went to Rika's room and Henry logged onto Rika's computer.

"What are you doing?"

"Logging on your e-mail."

Henry typed some commands and got into Kila's inbox and clicked 'Settings'. Under 'Settings' it had 'Block: Terrier-Tamer@yahoo.com' and 'Filter messages addressed to Terrier-Tamer@yahoo.com to Trash.'

"I knew it. Someone set the settings on your e-mail."

"But, I didn't do it....The only person who has my password is...."

"Your mom..."

"I can't believe she'd do that but I know she did. When I get back, I'm going to give her a piece of my mind!"

***

Rika and Ryo were seated on the stairs outside.

"Rika?"

"Yeah, Akiyama?"

Ryo opened his mouth but stopped.

"Hey, it's snowing."

Indeed, there was small, delicate white flakes falling from the sky.

"Beautiful..."

"It is...Merry Christmas, Wildcat."

A/N JOY 2 THE WORLD! I completed this chapter....I think the next 3 chapters will be the epilogue as promised....Well Happy Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Happy Holidays from,
Angel13