Ch. 2 Loved and Used
His friends teased him constantly for the remainder of the evening, but he didn't care he really liked her. She was really pretty and extremely nice. Her long dark brown almost black hair and chocolate eyes stood out vividly in his mind. He liked being with girls, but not all that often did he find himself thinking about one as much as he thought about her.
He was actually excited to go back to Loire's tomorrow and spent the little remainder of the night trying to sleep. His effort was in vain.
Not able to sleep Squall allows his mind to think about her. He found it ironic about bumping into her before. He'd only caught the back of her then, but instantly knew it was her when he saw her again. He didn't know what it meant, but he thought it had to be some kind of sign.
He got up from his bed the next morning as soon as he felt the heat of the morning sun burn on his bare chest through the window. Quickly putting on his favorite black pants and white t-shirt he went down to the lobby to see who else was up.
Upon arriving at the lobby Squall smiled at his two comrades that where present.
"Good morning," he said cheerfully to Quistis and Zell.
"Some bodies pleasant this morning," Quistis said to him a rare smile contagiously spreading across her face.
"The guy has something to smile about. Our Squall found himself a girl." Zell teases punching him in the arm playfully.
"It's not like were dating or anything," he told them rationally.
"If you say so…say Squall what are you going to do today?" Squall's face goes beat red "That's what I thought," Zell said triumphantly.
Wanting the change of subject Squall asks his friends "Where's Selphie and Irvine?
Zell gives him a mischievous wink "I think we should let them sleep in this morning," Squall didn't need any further explanation.
"Well since were not waiting for anyone anymore let's head out." Quistis asked with both he and Zell's agreement the three of them left the hotel.
Down the street was a vender selling the daily paper. Zell paid the vender 25 gil then grabbed his paper from the stand. He sighs in disgust.
"There still looking for that damn girl."
"There never going to find her," Quistis said flatly.
"Well I hope the search is over soon," Squall told them. "Then we won't have to bust down con artist like Seifer anymore for training random girls that they find off the street."
"Do you think that Seifer is scamming something?" Zell asked them.
"I'm sure he's working on something, but to tell you the truth I don't give a damn anymore. I'm tired of messing with him."
"I'm not arguing with you, but what if he is up to something don't you think it's our job to stop him?" Quistis asked him.
They arrived at Loire's and Squall watches as Rin cleans of one of the tables he turns back to Quistis "Unless were hired I'm not going to get myself involved in anymore of Seifer's stupid ploys." Without another word Squall steps into the bar with Quistis and Zell not far behind.
* * * * *
Rin was caught off guard by the effect that Seifer's simple touch had on her. She was excited about her upcoming nights alone with him, but she couldn't push away the feeling that she was being used.
The next morning at the bar Squall Lionheart and his friends walked in.
She didn't know what to make of Squall. Seifer made him sound like he was some crazy guy who went off the wall on his father, but Rin found Squall just too cute to be crazy. She wanted to get to know the situation better before she made any judgments.
Squall's friends sat down while he walked nervously up to the bar. She found his shyness so adorable. He was nothing like Seifer and Rin was curious what went on between the two of them. It added to the mysteriousness that surrounded Squall Lionheart.
She watched him sit down at the bar she quickly walked over to him. "What can I get you? Can I assume it's too early for a beer?" She asked him jokingly.
Yeah I'll be back for that in twenty minutes for now I'll just take an apple juice."
"Coming right up," she said cheerfully getting his drink. When handed the drink he nodded gratefully to her.
"How was your first day at work?" he asked her.
Knowing that he must have heard that from his friends, she smiled at his genuine curiosity in her.
"As well as can be expected I met this really cool guy yesterday." She teased.
"Well I met someone pretty cool too," he told her.
"Oh really," she said continuing the game that they were playing "was she nice?"
"The nicest," he said making her smile.
"The guy I met was pretty nice too."
They continued smiling at each other. She watched as Squall sat there nervously. He took a long sip of his apple juice before he said anything again.
"I was wondering if you weren't doing anything…" he paused before continuing "if you would like to go out after your shift."
Squall sat there making a great effort not to let his eyes make contact with hers. She would have loved to out with Squall tonight, but she had her thing with Seifer.
"I'm sorry," she told him "I already have something going."
"I understand," he said getting up from the counter. He hid his disappointment well, but Rin knew it was there because she was feeling it too.
He started to walk back to his friends when she called after him "Squall," he looked back at her. "I have tomorrow off."
He smiles "I'll pick you up at noon."
"I can't wait," she told him. With a nod he went back to his friends. Rin went back to wiping tables she shook a bit as she felt even her toes tingle with excitement.
* * * * *
Rin came over to Raijin, Fujin and his apartment the next night. He sent Raijin and Fujin out that night so Rin would be fooled into the thinking the night being more intimate then it really was.
She wasn't too enthusiastic about reading about all the past royals, but it was important to lay down all the ground work before we actually got started. I tactfully pushed the matter on her as she nagged me.
"Why do I have to know about the King's sister's husband anyway?"
"I like to be pre-paired for any situation. I just want you to be ready for anything."
Rin glared at him "Why do I have to be ready again? I think I missed that part."
She did it again, just when Seifer thought she was a mindless fool she shows him otherwise. He carefully choose his words as he answered her question.
"When I first saw you I saw someone who was lost. Not like you didn't know where you were, but your soul. I can still see it in your eyes something's missing in you," Seifer buries his eyes into his lap, but not without a quick glance at Rin. She was buying every word. Keeping his voice sad and confused he went on.
"Maybe by finding your missing piece I can find my own. I guess that's some of my incentive to all this."
He turned his eyes back on hers they actually had tears in them. He would have laughed out loud if he didn't know how much that would cost him. Clearing his throat Seifer laid out his final touch.
"I don't know maybe I'm just fooling the both of us."
Rin wipes the tears from her eyes then reaches out for his hand and gently holds it. Gathering herself with her hand still on his she asks.
"What page am I on?"
Hooked, lined and sinker Seifer thought as he told her the page number.
* * * * *
Squall and his friends stayed in that night and ordered hot-dogs from the vender down the street. Squall didn't want to go back to Loires before his date with Rin, which seemed to be the main topic of the night.
"So where are you going to take her?" Zell asked shoving an entire hot-dog into his mouth. The girls gave Zell a look of disgust as Squall answered his question.
"I don't know I think I'll just play it by ear."
"You know you should take her to the rock bluffs in Balamb there so romantic," Selphie suggested.
"A bit too romantic for a first date," Squall told her "plus it's like a days train ride away."
"Making plenty of time to get top know her better," Irvine said jabbing an elbow in his ribs.
"Guys I'm not worried about where I'm going to take her I'm just worried about what am I to do and say. You know how nervous I get around girls."
Quistis stood putting a sympathetic hand on Squall's shoulder "If you just be yourself I'm sure you'll sweep her off her feet."
That whole night Squall stayed up worried. What Quistis said helped, but Quistis was like a sister to him. Loving sisters always told you what you want to hear.
The next day Squall arrived at Loires 15 minutes early, Rin wasn't even there yet. He sat at the bar his back to Laguna who was with a customer. Thankfully Laguna did as Squall usually did to him he ignored him.
Squall spent a good part of the morning deciding what to wear and after a little help from Selphie he finally settled on a blue buttoned down shirt and a pair of kakis, though he would have preferred his black pants and leather jacket.
Nervously he sat down waiting for Rin's arrival. He still didn't know where he was going to take her yet, but he decided he leave that up to her.
When Rin arrived he immediately stood up straighter. She was wearing jeans with a baby blue tank top it was so simple, but Squall thought he had never seen someone so beautiful. Then again she could have come dressed in a clown costume and he still wouldn't have blinked an eye at her beauty.
He walked up to her she was all smiles, he loved her smile it could light up a room.
"You ready?" he asked
"If you are"
Together they left Loires and began walking down the streets of Timber. The young woman asked Squall.
"So what are we going to do today?"
"I thought I let you decide," he told her.
"I don't know what there is to do. With working…and stuff I really haven't got a chance to see the town."
"Then that's what we'll do," Squall told her and lead her off to the heart of Timber.
He showed her everything from the train stations to the printing press in the Timber Mechanics' building. It wasn't really much to see, but her company made up for it ten fold.
He had found out that she was an orphan from Trabia. She had no recollection of her parents or anything before her time at her orphanage. All she had from her unknown life was a ring which she seemed to treasure with all her heart.
He related with her ring, he touched the ring his mother gave him that he wore on his ring finger. Squall choose not to mention his ring he wasn't as open as her.
She also told him her slight interest in being a singer. Squall mused at the idea she sure as hell would hold his attention more then that Victoria ever would.
When she finished telling him about himself she seemed sad and she asked him.
"Is that all rather too sad for you?" Se…someone told me that I seemed lost and sad."
Squall looked at her carefully "I think whoever told you that is an idiot," he said to her dead serious.
"I don't know… I kind of agreed with him. I don't know my past and what I do know is not even worth remembering."
Squall uncomfortably took her hand, but nevertheless he held it gently. "Nothing about you is worthless," he said staring right into her chocolate brown eyes. "When I first saw you I saw a fiery, beautiful girl who has the kindest smile that I had ever seen. I wouldn't consider someone like that, someone like you lost or sad. Maybe just finding herself which takes a lot more courage then someone who's lost could ever have."
When Squall was done talking his face was red with embarrassment for all that he said, but he soon found Rin equally as red.
The two remained silent for awhile. They walked down the street hand in hand. The city seemed to be running by them, but for the two of them it was the first time that things seemed still.
After awhile their silence seemed to wane and Rin asked him. "I've told you all about me I want to hear a little about you."
Her hand was warm in his the warm feeling made him smile.
"What do you want to know?" he asked her the smile still spread across his face.
"How about you, your friends…your family?" he noticed her hesitation when she said family. No doubt that Laguna told her about their relation.
"Well I'm a mercenary I think you know that."
He went on to tell her about all the missions that he and his friends had been on. He told her how they met which made her giggle.
"So Zell saw Irvine from the back and his pony tail was sticking out so he hit on him?" Rin laughed out loud in disbelief.
"Yeah and Selphie was walking with Irvine while Quistis was with Zell. It was such a funny incident that it was impossible not to be friends after it. Squall chuckles "At least that's the story they tell me."
"When did you join them?"
"Well me and an old friend of mine where sent on a mission with Zell and the others. I remember that mission like it was yesterday. They didn't trust my friend Seifer or me"-
Squall stops when Rin's eyes widen "Are you alright?" he asks.
"Yeah…yeah…I'm sorry I just forgot something keep going."
"I'm sorry," squall says "This must be boring I'll stop."
"No don't, I think its interesting keep on talking."
Hesitantly Squall continues "Anyway, the four of them got into a bit of trouble with some Galbadian officials. They where sent to Desert Prison Seifer and I broke into the prison and helped them escape. For the most part we've been friends ever since."
"Aren't…aren't you still friends with Seifer?"
Squall sighs "Some people change and so do their priorities," was all he said on the matter.
Squall noticed that it was starting to get dark. "God it gets dark fast," he told her "Why don't I take you home."
They both knew that he was avoiding the subject of his family, but Squall just didn't feel like getting into it.
Rin lived in an apartment building by the bar. Squall walked her to her door.
"I had really great time tonight," he told her. It was true he had the best time with her.
"I did too," she said brightly then switching her voice over to sadness she asked "When are you guys leaving?"
"Early tomorrow morning," he frowned. It was the first time he ever wanted to stay in Timber.
"Do…do you think I'll ever see you again?"
Noticing her disappointment with him leaving made Squall cheer up, smiling down on her innocent face he says to her "There's no way I think I can go too long without seeing your smile."
He hoped what he said didn't come off too corny, but one look into Rin's eyes told him he didn't. She stood on the tip of her toes giving him a soft kiss on the cheek.
"Till then," she smiles then walks into her building.
Squall stood there a bit longer after she left seriously considering quitting his job.
* * * * *
Rin enjoyed every minute with Squall and was terribly sad that he was leaving, even if it was suppose to only be for a short while.
She couldn't believe she told him about her secret desire to be a singer. Even though it was just a silly dream to her Squall seemed to encourage it, it was a nice thought to know that if she ever did pursue a singing career she at least have one fan.
Still much was left a mystery with Squall, but Rin quickly saw that he wasn't trying to hide anything it just seemed to painful for him to talk about.
Soon after Squall dropped Rin off at her apartment she left again to go to the bar. She knew if anyone was to watch her it would seem like she was dating two guys, but to Rin it didn't feel like that.
With Seifer it's more a business relationship then anything else, though, she be the first to admit how attracted she was to him. With Squall it was different he was interested in her. The whole day she kept stealing glances at him and to her delight she caught him doing the same.
Her happy mood took a slight turn when she walked into the bar. Victoria was on stage and as usual every man's eyes where on her.
Rin didn't know why she was so hateful towards the singer. She never did anything personal to her, but when she caught Seifer's focused glaze on her the feeling couldn't be shaken.
Rin desperately wanted to know what happened between Squall and Seifer. She decided not ask Squall who seemed hurt by the subject it be safer to ask Seifer who only held resentment towards it.
She walked up to Seifer he didn't even look away from the woman on stage. Rin tried calling his name but his attention could not be grabbed away from the lovely Victoria.
Without thinking about it Rin began to talk to Seifer. She mentioned her date with Squall and as suddenly as that Seifer's face perks up towards her.
* * * * *
He should have taken the matter more seriously, but he let it go and now it had developed into a problem.
He saw the look in her eyes it was the same look he got when he held her hand. The girl was obviously easily influenced. Seifer turned back to beautiful Victoria, why couldn't all women be like her? He looked back down at Rin he knew he had to do something he hated it, but there was no way he could let her get close to Squall. It would undoubtedly ruin everything.
Rin was looking at him queerly she knew something was up she did have some intelligence, but for now Seifer wanted to just sit there and enjoy the beauty that was on stage.
When Victoria's show was over Seifer turned back to Rin who was sitting impatiently next to him looking very upset, he had kept her waiting for awhile without acknowledging her.
"You done drooling?" she snapped.
Seifer didn't like being snapped at nor did he like being told that he was drooling over someone. Seifer wasn't one to follow someone else they always followed him.
Swallowing his pride for only that moment he grabbed Rin's hand and dragged her to Laguna's back room.
"What the"- she started, but didn't get any farther.
"Rin, Squall isn't the type of guy that you want to be with," it was the first time he had been completely honest with her.
"Why?" her question was reasonably, but Seifer dreaded answering it. Shrugging it off he did what he had to do.
"Because I want to be with you," Seifer was always better at sounding honest when he wasn't then when he was actually being honest.
Rin looked up at him her eyes where undecided. He thought his words would have sealed the deal easily, but it wasn't enough she was actually thinking about it. He knew she needed more.
He took Rin in his arms and kissed her. He watched as her eyes closed as their lips connected, he didn't remove his eyes from her as he pulled away. Her eyes still wavered with confusion! He couldn't believe it Squall must have really done a number on her.
He knew he had to say something quick while the heat of their kiss still remained.
"Rin," he took her back into his arms "I need you."
And that was that. She flew her arms around him and he returned the gesture, but not nearly as adamantly as she.
They spent the remainder of the night together. As he instructed her on drinking her tea he noticed her looking at him lustily. Right then and there he once again stopped worrying about Squall. Game over he thought as he reminded Rin to keep her pinky out.
* * * * *
The five of them where on the train to Deling City the search for the Princess Rinoa was getting out of hand and the city required their help.
The questions where many for Squall on the train ride to Deling as his friends asked him about his date with Rin.
"Did you kiss?" was the first question out of Irvine's mouth.
"She gave me a harmless kiss on the cheek."
They asked for all the details on what happened on the date and for the most part he told them leaving out only the things that Rin told him about her, they didn't need to know all that.
"So when are you two going to see each other again?" Quistis asked. This was the one question that he couldn't answer because frankly he didn't know.
"I'm going back to Timber on our next break, but who knows when that will be," he told them. The thought was defiantly discouraging.
"Don't worry Squall I'm sure she's counting down the days until you get back," Selphie chirped in. She had a gift to put a positive spin on anything.
Squall nodded "I know I am."
* * * * *
Rin was confused and furious with herself. She let herself fall for Seifer even though thoughts of Squall still dominated her mind.
Seifer said he needed her and she needed him too, but she thought only as a friend.
When he kissed her everything she thought was turned upside down. Whenever he gave her the slightest look or touch her nerves melted and she felt as if she had no control over herself. Seifer knew it too and often he used it against her, especially when she was training.
It was all business with him when she was training to be a "Princess," but when she wasn't training was when he really treated her like one.
He would sometimes come into the bar in the middle of her shifts and sneak away with her to the back room where the two of them would have little make-out sessions. He would go over to her place late at night with some wine and things usually lead to…well other things.
Seifer wouldn't stop his idolizing of Victoria whenever she was on stage, but all in all she couldn't complain too much about their relationship.
The one thing that she couldn't stop worrying about, though, was Squall. She hadn't seen him in little over a month. She worried about him often. She was scared for his safety and always hoped that his missions where going okay wherever he was, but what she worried about most was when he came back. It could be years from now, it could be tomorrow, but someday he was.
She wouldn't kid herself with pretending that she wasn't excited to see him, but she didn't know how she was going to tell Squall about Seifer when he eventually comes back.
Maybe she was thinking to highly of herself. They had only known each other for a few days and they only had one date. On top of which it's been a month since she had last seen him, however, a feeling for him in her still last. She knew she be hurt if his feelings for her disappeared in him.
One night her and Seifer where lying in bed. He had made her read a book on King Caraway. She quickly grew bored of it and turned over to look at Seifer. He had his head behind his hands and seemed to be pondering hard about something.
She hated to bother him, but something had been bugging her for awhile and she knew she feel better about things if she just asked him.
"Seifer?" she gently called to him.
"What is it?" he asked not trying to hide his annoyance.
"What went on between you and Squall?"
He was silent for awhile Rin started to think that he hadn't heard her, but he eventually found his voice.
"You still think about him?" he snapped at her. He didn't sound hurt or jealous, but angry.
"Not really, I guess I just wanted to know."
"There's not much to tell," he told her.
"Would you tell me anyway?" she begged.
"Only if you finish that damn book"
She promised and Seifer started his story.
"I was a mercenary with Squall and his buddies at the time, Squall and I where good chums we had been since we where kids.
He smiled at what seemed to be wishful memories before he continued.
"One mission the six of us where to capture an old man for smuggling illegal drugs from Esthar. We caught the man then inspected his home when we did we found a horde of money from his drug deals. Now this might sound wrong, but I wanted to take it I mean all we would have done with it was hand it over. None of the others wanted anything to do with it, but promised not to say anything if I took some. Well a little later I got called in for taking the money, Squall had sold me out."
Rin laid on the bed listening not saying a word.
"Anyway I spent some time in Desert Prison. When I got out I never really talked to any of them again. I still see Squall and the others from time to time, but ever time I do anger rises in me. Squall got me fired from my job, he made me lose all my friends he practically ruined my life."
Rin didn't know what to say so she didn't say anything. What Seifer did was wrong, but to turn in a friend…she almost considered that worst.
For her own sanity Rin choose not to make any judgment and was relieved when Seifer ordered her to continue reading her book.
* * * * *
The basterd was still on her mind he now knew there was nothing he could do to change that. He had spent the last month working very hard to please her mixing a little business with pleasure.
Obviously his efforts were all a waste, the damn girl was almost not worth it. Her process in training to become the princess was going terribly slow. His majesty could be fooled by someone else any day now and they would still be here sitting on their asses.
The next day knowing that Rin had the day off from work he went to Loire's. Ordering a few beers Seifer sat quietly thinking about the circumstances that he had gotten himself involved in when the lights went dim in the bar, the incredible figure of Victoria stepped onto stage.
Her voice sang into his soul, so did her body. Rin couldn't hold a candle to Victoria. At that moment he forgot all his worries and focused on Victoria.
It could have very well been his imagination, but he could have sworn she was looking at him. Coolly Seifer pretended not to notice.
When the show was over the lights turned back on and the bar resumed its usual noise level. Seifer in the mean time went back to his beer.
He was thinking of all the possible ways to break it off with Rin without hurting their business relationship when a sexy voice whispered into his ear.
"Are you alone?"
Seifer turned around standing before him was Victoria herself. The red strapless dress that she was wearing sparkled against her body and her eyes…both where blinding.
He gave the woman a sly smile "It won't be if you sit next to me," he told her patting the seat next to him. She elegantly sat down while he marveled at her perfect figure.
Giving him a sexy grin she says in a beautiful voice "You're not with your usual brunette."
Seifer cringed, had Rin been keeping her from talking to him? Disregarding the thought he tells her.
"She's not mine at least not like that."
The woman seeming not to give the matter another thought leaned closer to Seifer.
"I'll be yours," she said seductively.
Seifer's eyes gleamed "Will you now?" he said smugly.
"Oh ya I've had my eyes on you for awhile Blondie." Seifer instinctively brushed his hands through his hair. The woman smiled smugly at him. The only person he knew that could match his smugness. Seifer looked at the woman up and down; she had a good reason to be smug.
"I know you've been watching me," she said to him not trying to hide her over confidence in her voice.
Seifer looked at the beautiful woman who was in front of him "How could I not?" he asked her with honesty in his voice that had not been heard in years.
Victoria grabbed him by the hand and rushed him to the back room. Before he knew what was happening Victoria had threw herself on him.
Everyman who ever laid eyes on Victoria had fantasized about being in his position. With that thought in mind and Victoria's tongue in his mouth Seifer threw all thoughts of Rin out of his mind. He continued to embrace the beauty that was Victoria as she indulged herself into him.
* * * * *
He would never have imagined how crazy things where in Deling City. The streets where filled with Rinoa Caraway want abbes Squall really couldn't blame them though, considering that 10 million gil that was at stake. He just couldn't believe that his majesty didn't see this coming.
Simply put, with how bad his past month has been Squall had never before looked forward so much to a long weekend in his life.
His friends agreed to spend the weekend in Timber. For this he was grateful he knew how much they have rather gone to Esthar.
On the train ride back to Timber Squall was filled with only two emotions excitement and nervousness. He hadn't seen Rin in little over a month, where he couldn't wait to see her again he wondered what her reaction would be.
The mission took a lot longer then he had planned. Would she think he was weird for coming back? Would she still even be available? A month was a long time and Squall thought it impossible for no one to make a move on Rin Heartilly.
Regardless of all these thoughts Squall knew he at least go and see her. He curse himself for the rest of his life if he didn't.
Squall left his friends to settle in their hotel rooms. He wanted to go to Loires alone to see her.
He reached Loires, but he couldn't make himself go in "It's just another girl," he tried telling himself.
The fact was Rin Heartilly wasn't just another girl. Rin Heartilly was nothing short of amazing.
With a deep breathe Squall opened the door. Swallowing his last fear of her not even remembering him he walked into the bar.
* * * * *
Victoria was once again on stage as always she had everyman's undivided attention; including Seifer's who was sitting at a front row table.
Rin hated the feeling of jealousy. It really wasn't a feeling she was used to and now that she was experiencing it she hoped she never had to feel it again.
As Victoria's voice rang in her ears resentment inside of her built up towards the woman. Not able to drown the noise out she created her own with the melodies that always sung in her head she let the words escape.
Maybe yes, maybe no
I kind of liked it your way
As you shyly place your eyes on me
Oh, did you ever know
That I had mine on you
A familiar voice awoke her from her trance.
"It should be you up on that stage," said the voice.
Rin felt her heart tighten it was the voice of the only man she knew who couldn't be mesmerized by the beautiful Victoria. The only person she told about her inner desire to become a singer. The only person her boyfriend truly hated.
It was the voice of Squall Lionheart. She looked up at him he was just as handsome as ever. At the sight of him relief that she didn't know had swept over her.
"Hey Squall," she said pleasantly, but painfully "long time no see."
She could see a quick glint of pain appear in his eyes, but was gone as quickly as it came. It made Rin feel bad that she couldn't give him a more affectionate greeting, but she was with Seifer now…She threw a quick glance over to her boyfriend who was still fixating on Victoria.
What harm can come from a hug she thought and wrapped her arms around the young mercenary; Squall returned the gesture and wrapped his arms around her. Rin was suddenly swept with a warm comfort that came from being in Squall's arms. It scared her and she abruptly broke the hug.
Squall looked at her uncomfortably. Breaking the tension that had come between the two she asked him.
"So Mr. Lionheart where have you've been the last month?"
"In a word…hell," with concern she focused her troubled eyes on the young man.
"What happened?" she asked.
"A lot, but let's just say you don't want to go down to Deling City anytime soon."
Before Rin could ask why she shouldn't go to Deling she caught sight of Squall's dreamy gaze on her.
"What is it?" Rin asked.
Squall looking embarrassed quickly took his eyes off from her. With a blush forming on his face that was redder then an apple Squall managed to stumble out words.
"I…I…was…you know…just thinking…I was thinking…how beautiful you are."
Now Rin was blushing the two embarrassedly turned away from each other. They didn't speak again until Victoria's voice had gone away and the bar returned to its regular activity level.
Squall was the first to speak.
"Rin if your not doing anything tomorrow night I was wondering if you would want to go out."
"Squall," she said sadly, but before she could say anything else she felt another body join her behind the counter. It was Seifer he wrapped his arm around her like marking his territory.
Seifer snarled at Squall "She can't because she's with me."
Hurt showed in his eyes. Squall got up getting the picture, Seifer made it impossible for him not to.
He glanced angrily at Seifer. No, she was mistaken it wasn't anger or even resentment it was look of being hurt.
Without another look at her Squall started to leave. She watched as he neared the bar's door. She wanted to call after him, but no words came out. Rin still felt Seifer's arm around her as Squall turned around one last time.
"Your luck Seifer she's a pretty good gal," Without another word Squall left. Squall's departure left her with a surprised feeling one she hadn't expected. He left her feeling lost.
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Hey! Okay, well, that was the second chapter, hope you likes! Aren't you glad I FINALLY put it up?
heheheheh, okay, well, anyways, thank-you very much for your reviews:
PrincessMercury: I'm glad you like it!
Keiry: I hope you read the rest, and I'm happy that you like it so far!
The third chapter will be up soon! I promise!!!!!
His friends teased him constantly for the remainder of the evening, but he didn't care he really liked her. She was really pretty and extremely nice. Her long dark brown almost black hair and chocolate eyes stood out vividly in his mind. He liked being with girls, but not all that often did he find himself thinking about one as much as he thought about her.
He was actually excited to go back to Loire's tomorrow and spent the little remainder of the night trying to sleep. His effort was in vain.
Not able to sleep Squall allows his mind to think about her. He found it ironic about bumping into her before. He'd only caught the back of her then, but instantly knew it was her when he saw her again. He didn't know what it meant, but he thought it had to be some kind of sign.
He got up from his bed the next morning as soon as he felt the heat of the morning sun burn on his bare chest through the window. Quickly putting on his favorite black pants and white t-shirt he went down to the lobby to see who else was up.
Upon arriving at the lobby Squall smiled at his two comrades that where present.
"Good morning," he said cheerfully to Quistis and Zell.
"Some bodies pleasant this morning," Quistis said to him a rare smile contagiously spreading across her face.
"The guy has something to smile about. Our Squall found himself a girl." Zell teases punching him in the arm playfully.
"It's not like were dating or anything," he told them rationally.
"If you say so…say Squall what are you going to do today?" Squall's face goes beat red "That's what I thought," Zell said triumphantly.
Wanting the change of subject Squall asks his friends "Where's Selphie and Irvine?
Zell gives him a mischievous wink "I think we should let them sleep in this morning," Squall didn't need any further explanation.
"Well since were not waiting for anyone anymore let's head out." Quistis asked with both he and Zell's agreement the three of them left the hotel.
Down the street was a vender selling the daily paper. Zell paid the vender 25 gil then grabbed his paper from the stand. He sighs in disgust.
"There still looking for that damn girl."
"There never going to find her," Quistis said flatly.
"Well I hope the search is over soon," Squall told them. "Then we won't have to bust down con artist like Seifer anymore for training random girls that they find off the street."
"Do you think that Seifer is scamming something?" Zell asked them.
"I'm sure he's working on something, but to tell you the truth I don't give a damn anymore. I'm tired of messing with him."
"I'm not arguing with you, but what if he is up to something don't you think it's our job to stop him?" Quistis asked him.
They arrived at Loire's and Squall watches as Rin cleans of one of the tables he turns back to Quistis "Unless were hired I'm not going to get myself involved in anymore of Seifer's stupid ploys." Without another word Squall steps into the bar with Quistis and Zell not far behind.
* * * * *
Rin was caught off guard by the effect that Seifer's simple touch had on her. She was excited about her upcoming nights alone with him, but she couldn't push away the feeling that she was being used.
The next morning at the bar Squall Lionheart and his friends walked in.
She didn't know what to make of Squall. Seifer made him sound like he was some crazy guy who went off the wall on his father, but Rin found Squall just too cute to be crazy. She wanted to get to know the situation better before she made any judgments.
Squall's friends sat down while he walked nervously up to the bar. She found his shyness so adorable. He was nothing like Seifer and Rin was curious what went on between the two of them. It added to the mysteriousness that surrounded Squall Lionheart.
She watched him sit down at the bar she quickly walked over to him. "What can I get you? Can I assume it's too early for a beer?" She asked him jokingly.
Yeah I'll be back for that in twenty minutes for now I'll just take an apple juice."
"Coming right up," she said cheerfully getting his drink. When handed the drink he nodded gratefully to her.
"How was your first day at work?" he asked her.
Knowing that he must have heard that from his friends, she smiled at his genuine curiosity in her.
"As well as can be expected I met this really cool guy yesterday." She teased.
"Well I met someone pretty cool too," he told her.
"Oh really," she said continuing the game that they were playing "was she nice?"
"The nicest," he said making her smile.
"The guy I met was pretty nice too."
They continued smiling at each other. She watched as Squall sat there nervously. He took a long sip of his apple juice before he said anything again.
"I was wondering if you weren't doing anything…" he paused before continuing "if you would like to go out after your shift."
Squall sat there making a great effort not to let his eyes make contact with hers. She would have loved to out with Squall tonight, but she had her thing with Seifer.
"I'm sorry," she told him "I already have something going."
"I understand," he said getting up from the counter. He hid his disappointment well, but Rin knew it was there because she was feeling it too.
He started to walk back to his friends when she called after him "Squall," he looked back at her. "I have tomorrow off."
He smiles "I'll pick you up at noon."
"I can't wait," she told him. With a nod he went back to his friends. Rin went back to wiping tables she shook a bit as she felt even her toes tingle with excitement.
* * * * *
Rin came over to Raijin, Fujin and his apartment the next night. He sent Raijin and Fujin out that night so Rin would be fooled into the thinking the night being more intimate then it really was.
She wasn't too enthusiastic about reading about all the past royals, but it was important to lay down all the ground work before we actually got started. I tactfully pushed the matter on her as she nagged me.
"Why do I have to know about the King's sister's husband anyway?"
"I like to be pre-paired for any situation. I just want you to be ready for anything."
Rin glared at him "Why do I have to be ready again? I think I missed that part."
She did it again, just when Seifer thought she was a mindless fool she shows him otherwise. He carefully choose his words as he answered her question.
"When I first saw you I saw someone who was lost. Not like you didn't know where you were, but your soul. I can still see it in your eyes something's missing in you," Seifer buries his eyes into his lap, but not without a quick glance at Rin. She was buying every word. Keeping his voice sad and confused he went on.
"Maybe by finding your missing piece I can find my own. I guess that's some of my incentive to all this."
He turned his eyes back on hers they actually had tears in them. He would have laughed out loud if he didn't know how much that would cost him. Clearing his throat Seifer laid out his final touch.
"I don't know maybe I'm just fooling the both of us."
Rin wipes the tears from her eyes then reaches out for his hand and gently holds it. Gathering herself with her hand still on his she asks.
"What page am I on?"
Hooked, lined and sinker Seifer thought as he told her the page number.
* * * * *
Squall and his friends stayed in that night and ordered hot-dogs from the vender down the street. Squall didn't want to go back to Loires before his date with Rin, which seemed to be the main topic of the night.
"So where are you going to take her?" Zell asked shoving an entire hot-dog into his mouth. The girls gave Zell a look of disgust as Squall answered his question.
"I don't know I think I'll just play it by ear."
"You know you should take her to the rock bluffs in Balamb there so romantic," Selphie suggested.
"A bit too romantic for a first date," Squall told her "plus it's like a days train ride away."
"Making plenty of time to get top know her better," Irvine said jabbing an elbow in his ribs.
"Guys I'm not worried about where I'm going to take her I'm just worried about what am I to do and say. You know how nervous I get around girls."
Quistis stood putting a sympathetic hand on Squall's shoulder "If you just be yourself I'm sure you'll sweep her off her feet."
That whole night Squall stayed up worried. What Quistis said helped, but Quistis was like a sister to him. Loving sisters always told you what you want to hear.
The next day Squall arrived at Loires 15 minutes early, Rin wasn't even there yet. He sat at the bar his back to Laguna who was with a customer. Thankfully Laguna did as Squall usually did to him he ignored him.
Squall spent a good part of the morning deciding what to wear and after a little help from Selphie he finally settled on a blue buttoned down shirt and a pair of kakis, though he would have preferred his black pants and leather jacket.
Nervously he sat down waiting for Rin's arrival. He still didn't know where he was going to take her yet, but he decided he leave that up to her.
When Rin arrived he immediately stood up straighter. She was wearing jeans with a baby blue tank top it was so simple, but Squall thought he had never seen someone so beautiful. Then again she could have come dressed in a clown costume and he still wouldn't have blinked an eye at her beauty.
He walked up to her she was all smiles, he loved her smile it could light up a room.
"You ready?" he asked
"If you are"
Together they left Loires and began walking down the streets of Timber. The young woman asked Squall.
"So what are we going to do today?"
"I thought I let you decide," he told her.
"I don't know what there is to do. With working…and stuff I really haven't got a chance to see the town."
"Then that's what we'll do," Squall told her and lead her off to the heart of Timber.
He showed her everything from the train stations to the printing press in the Timber Mechanics' building. It wasn't really much to see, but her company made up for it ten fold.
He had found out that she was an orphan from Trabia. She had no recollection of her parents or anything before her time at her orphanage. All she had from her unknown life was a ring which she seemed to treasure with all her heart.
He related with her ring, he touched the ring his mother gave him that he wore on his ring finger. Squall choose not to mention his ring he wasn't as open as her.
She also told him her slight interest in being a singer. Squall mused at the idea she sure as hell would hold his attention more then that Victoria ever would.
When she finished telling him about himself she seemed sad and she asked him.
"Is that all rather too sad for you?" Se…someone told me that I seemed lost and sad."
Squall looked at her carefully "I think whoever told you that is an idiot," he said to her dead serious.
"I don't know… I kind of agreed with him. I don't know my past and what I do know is not even worth remembering."
Squall uncomfortably took her hand, but nevertheless he held it gently. "Nothing about you is worthless," he said staring right into her chocolate brown eyes. "When I first saw you I saw a fiery, beautiful girl who has the kindest smile that I had ever seen. I wouldn't consider someone like that, someone like you lost or sad. Maybe just finding herself which takes a lot more courage then someone who's lost could ever have."
When Squall was done talking his face was red with embarrassment for all that he said, but he soon found Rin equally as red.
The two remained silent for awhile. They walked down the street hand in hand. The city seemed to be running by them, but for the two of them it was the first time that things seemed still.
After awhile their silence seemed to wane and Rin asked him. "I've told you all about me I want to hear a little about you."
Her hand was warm in his the warm feeling made him smile.
"What do you want to know?" he asked her the smile still spread across his face.
"How about you, your friends…your family?" he noticed her hesitation when she said family. No doubt that Laguna told her about their relation.
"Well I'm a mercenary I think you know that."
He went on to tell her about all the missions that he and his friends had been on. He told her how they met which made her giggle.
"So Zell saw Irvine from the back and his pony tail was sticking out so he hit on him?" Rin laughed out loud in disbelief.
"Yeah and Selphie was walking with Irvine while Quistis was with Zell. It was such a funny incident that it was impossible not to be friends after it. Squall chuckles "At least that's the story they tell me."
"When did you join them?"
"Well me and an old friend of mine where sent on a mission with Zell and the others. I remember that mission like it was yesterday. They didn't trust my friend Seifer or me"-
Squall stops when Rin's eyes widen "Are you alright?" he asks.
"Yeah…yeah…I'm sorry I just forgot something keep going."
"I'm sorry," squall says "This must be boring I'll stop."
"No don't, I think its interesting keep on talking."
Hesitantly Squall continues "Anyway, the four of them got into a bit of trouble with some Galbadian officials. They where sent to Desert Prison Seifer and I broke into the prison and helped them escape. For the most part we've been friends ever since."
"Aren't…aren't you still friends with Seifer?"
Squall sighs "Some people change and so do their priorities," was all he said on the matter.
Squall noticed that it was starting to get dark. "God it gets dark fast," he told her "Why don't I take you home."
They both knew that he was avoiding the subject of his family, but Squall just didn't feel like getting into it.
Rin lived in an apartment building by the bar. Squall walked her to her door.
"I had really great time tonight," he told her. It was true he had the best time with her.
"I did too," she said brightly then switching her voice over to sadness she asked "When are you guys leaving?"
"Early tomorrow morning," he frowned. It was the first time he ever wanted to stay in Timber.
"Do…do you think I'll ever see you again?"
Noticing her disappointment with him leaving made Squall cheer up, smiling down on her innocent face he says to her "There's no way I think I can go too long without seeing your smile."
He hoped what he said didn't come off too corny, but one look into Rin's eyes told him he didn't. She stood on the tip of her toes giving him a soft kiss on the cheek.
"Till then," she smiles then walks into her building.
Squall stood there a bit longer after she left seriously considering quitting his job.
* * * * *
Rin enjoyed every minute with Squall and was terribly sad that he was leaving, even if it was suppose to only be for a short while.
She couldn't believe she told him about her secret desire to be a singer. Even though it was just a silly dream to her Squall seemed to encourage it, it was a nice thought to know that if she ever did pursue a singing career she at least have one fan.
Still much was left a mystery with Squall, but Rin quickly saw that he wasn't trying to hide anything it just seemed to painful for him to talk about.
Soon after Squall dropped Rin off at her apartment she left again to go to the bar. She knew if anyone was to watch her it would seem like she was dating two guys, but to Rin it didn't feel like that.
With Seifer it's more a business relationship then anything else, though, she be the first to admit how attracted she was to him. With Squall it was different he was interested in her. The whole day she kept stealing glances at him and to her delight she caught him doing the same.
Her happy mood took a slight turn when she walked into the bar. Victoria was on stage and as usual every man's eyes where on her.
Rin didn't know why she was so hateful towards the singer. She never did anything personal to her, but when she caught Seifer's focused glaze on her the feeling couldn't be shaken.
Rin desperately wanted to know what happened between Squall and Seifer. She decided not ask Squall who seemed hurt by the subject it be safer to ask Seifer who only held resentment towards it.
She walked up to Seifer he didn't even look away from the woman on stage. Rin tried calling his name but his attention could not be grabbed away from the lovely Victoria.
Without thinking about it Rin began to talk to Seifer. She mentioned her date with Squall and as suddenly as that Seifer's face perks up towards her.
* * * * *
He should have taken the matter more seriously, but he let it go and now it had developed into a problem.
He saw the look in her eyes it was the same look he got when he held her hand. The girl was obviously easily influenced. Seifer turned back to beautiful Victoria, why couldn't all women be like her? He looked back down at Rin he knew he had to do something he hated it, but there was no way he could let her get close to Squall. It would undoubtedly ruin everything.
Rin was looking at him queerly she knew something was up she did have some intelligence, but for now Seifer wanted to just sit there and enjoy the beauty that was on stage.
When Victoria's show was over Seifer turned back to Rin who was sitting impatiently next to him looking very upset, he had kept her waiting for awhile without acknowledging her.
"You done drooling?" she snapped.
Seifer didn't like being snapped at nor did he like being told that he was drooling over someone. Seifer wasn't one to follow someone else they always followed him.
Swallowing his pride for only that moment he grabbed Rin's hand and dragged her to Laguna's back room.
"What the"- she started, but didn't get any farther.
"Rin, Squall isn't the type of guy that you want to be with," it was the first time he had been completely honest with her.
"Why?" her question was reasonably, but Seifer dreaded answering it. Shrugging it off he did what he had to do.
"Because I want to be with you," Seifer was always better at sounding honest when he wasn't then when he was actually being honest.
Rin looked up at him her eyes where undecided. He thought his words would have sealed the deal easily, but it wasn't enough she was actually thinking about it. He knew she needed more.
He took Rin in his arms and kissed her. He watched as her eyes closed as their lips connected, he didn't remove his eyes from her as he pulled away. Her eyes still wavered with confusion! He couldn't believe it Squall must have really done a number on her.
He knew he had to say something quick while the heat of their kiss still remained.
"Rin," he took her back into his arms "I need you."
And that was that. She flew her arms around him and he returned the gesture, but not nearly as adamantly as she.
They spent the remainder of the night together. As he instructed her on drinking her tea he noticed her looking at him lustily. Right then and there he once again stopped worrying about Squall. Game over he thought as he reminded Rin to keep her pinky out.
* * * * *
The five of them where on the train to Deling City the search for the Princess Rinoa was getting out of hand and the city required their help.
The questions where many for Squall on the train ride to Deling as his friends asked him about his date with Rin.
"Did you kiss?" was the first question out of Irvine's mouth.
"She gave me a harmless kiss on the cheek."
They asked for all the details on what happened on the date and for the most part he told them leaving out only the things that Rin told him about her, they didn't need to know all that.
"So when are you two going to see each other again?" Quistis asked. This was the one question that he couldn't answer because frankly he didn't know.
"I'm going back to Timber on our next break, but who knows when that will be," he told them. The thought was defiantly discouraging.
"Don't worry Squall I'm sure she's counting down the days until you get back," Selphie chirped in. She had a gift to put a positive spin on anything.
Squall nodded "I know I am."
* * * * *
Rin was confused and furious with herself. She let herself fall for Seifer even though thoughts of Squall still dominated her mind.
Seifer said he needed her and she needed him too, but she thought only as a friend.
When he kissed her everything she thought was turned upside down. Whenever he gave her the slightest look or touch her nerves melted and she felt as if she had no control over herself. Seifer knew it too and often he used it against her, especially when she was training.
It was all business with him when she was training to be a "Princess," but when she wasn't training was when he really treated her like one.
He would sometimes come into the bar in the middle of her shifts and sneak away with her to the back room where the two of them would have little make-out sessions. He would go over to her place late at night with some wine and things usually lead to…well other things.
Seifer wouldn't stop his idolizing of Victoria whenever she was on stage, but all in all she couldn't complain too much about their relationship.
The one thing that she couldn't stop worrying about, though, was Squall. She hadn't seen him in little over a month. She worried about him often. She was scared for his safety and always hoped that his missions where going okay wherever he was, but what she worried about most was when he came back. It could be years from now, it could be tomorrow, but someday he was.
She wouldn't kid herself with pretending that she wasn't excited to see him, but she didn't know how she was going to tell Squall about Seifer when he eventually comes back.
Maybe she was thinking to highly of herself. They had only known each other for a few days and they only had one date. On top of which it's been a month since she had last seen him, however, a feeling for him in her still last. She knew she be hurt if his feelings for her disappeared in him.
One night her and Seifer where lying in bed. He had made her read a book on King Caraway. She quickly grew bored of it and turned over to look at Seifer. He had his head behind his hands and seemed to be pondering hard about something.
She hated to bother him, but something had been bugging her for awhile and she knew she feel better about things if she just asked him.
"Seifer?" she gently called to him.
"What is it?" he asked not trying to hide his annoyance.
"What went on between you and Squall?"
He was silent for awhile Rin started to think that he hadn't heard her, but he eventually found his voice.
"You still think about him?" he snapped at her. He didn't sound hurt or jealous, but angry.
"Not really, I guess I just wanted to know."
"There's not much to tell," he told her.
"Would you tell me anyway?" she begged.
"Only if you finish that damn book"
She promised and Seifer started his story.
"I was a mercenary with Squall and his buddies at the time, Squall and I where good chums we had been since we where kids.
He smiled at what seemed to be wishful memories before he continued.
"One mission the six of us where to capture an old man for smuggling illegal drugs from Esthar. We caught the man then inspected his home when we did we found a horde of money from his drug deals. Now this might sound wrong, but I wanted to take it I mean all we would have done with it was hand it over. None of the others wanted anything to do with it, but promised not to say anything if I took some. Well a little later I got called in for taking the money, Squall had sold me out."
Rin laid on the bed listening not saying a word.
"Anyway I spent some time in Desert Prison. When I got out I never really talked to any of them again. I still see Squall and the others from time to time, but ever time I do anger rises in me. Squall got me fired from my job, he made me lose all my friends he practically ruined my life."
Rin didn't know what to say so she didn't say anything. What Seifer did was wrong, but to turn in a friend…she almost considered that worst.
For her own sanity Rin choose not to make any judgment and was relieved when Seifer ordered her to continue reading her book.
* * * * *
The basterd was still on her mind he now knew there was nothing he could do to change that. He had spent the last month working very hard to please her mixing a little business with pleasure.
Obviously his efforts were all a waste, the damn girl was almost not worth it. Her process in training to become the princess was going terribly slow. His majesty could be fooled by someone else any day now and they would still be here sitting on their asses.
The next day knowing that Rin had the day off from work he went to Loire's. Ordering a few beers Seifer sat quietly thinking about the circumstances that he had gotten himself involved in when the lights went dim in the bar, the incredible figure of Victoria stepped onto stage.
Her voice sang into his soul, so did her body. Rin couldn't hold a candle to Victoria. At that moment he forgot all his worries and focused on Victoria.
It could have very well been his imagination, but he could have sworn she was looking at him. Coolly Seifer pretended not to notice.
When the show was over the lights turned back on and the bar resumed its usual noise level. Seifer in the mean time went back to his beer.
He was thinking of all the possible ways to break it off with Rin without hurting their business relationship when a sexy voice whispered into his ear.
"Are you alone?"
Seifer turned around standing before him was Victoria herself. The red strapless dress that she was wearing sparkled against her body and her eyes…both where blinding.
He gave the woman a sly smile "It won't be if you sit next to me," he told her patting the seat next to him. She elegantly sat down while he marveled at her perfect figure.
Giving him a sexy grin she says in a beautiful voice "You're not with your usual brunette."
Seifer cringed, had Rin been keeping her from talking to him? Disregarding the thought he tells her.
"She's not mine at least not like that."
The woman seeming not to give the matter another thought leaned closer to Seifer.
"I'll be yours," she said seductively.
Seifer's eyes gleamed "Will you now?" he said smugly.
"Oh ya I've had my eyes on you for awhile Blondie." Seifer instinctively brushed his hands through his hair. The woman smiled smugly at him. The only person he knew that could match his smugness. Seifer looked at the woman up and down; she had a good reason to be smug.
"I know you've been watching me," she said to him not trying to hide her over confidence in her voice.
Seifer looked at the beautiful woman who was in front of him "How could I not?" he asked her with honesty in his voice that had not been heard in years.
Victoria grabbed him by the hand and rushed him to the back room. Before he knew what was happening Victoria had threw herself on him.
Everyman who ever laid eyes on Victoria had fantasized about being in his position. With that thought in mind and Victoria's tongue in his mouth Seifer threw all thoughts of Rin out of his mind. He continued to embrace the beauty that was Victoria as she indulged herself into him.
* * * * *
He would never have imagined how crazy things where in Deling City. The streets where filled with Rinoa Caraway want abbes Squall really couldn't blame them though, considering that 10 million gil that was at stake. He just couldn't believe that his majesty didn't see this coming.
Simply put, with how bad his past month has been Squall had never before looked forward so much to a long weekend in his life.
His friends agreed to spend the weekend in Timber. For this he was grateful he knew how much they have rather gone to Esthar.
On the train ride back to Timber Squall was filled with only two emotions excitement and nervousness. He hadn't seen Rin in little over a month, where he couldn't wait to see her again he wondered what her reaction would be.
The mission took a lot longer then he had planned. Would she think he was weird for coming back? Would she still even be available? A month was a long time and Squall thought it impossible for no one to make a move on Rin Heartilly.
Regardless of all these thoughts Squall knew he at least go and see her. He curse himself for the rest of his life if he didn't.
Squall left his friends to settle in their hotel rooms. He wanted to go to Loires alone to see her.
He reached Loires, but he couldn't make himself go in "It's just another girl," he tried telling himself.
The fact was Rin Heartilly wasn't just another girl. Rin Heartilly was nothing short of amazing.
With a deep breathe Squall opened the door. Swallowing his last fear of her not even remembering him he walked into the bar.
* * * * *
Victoria was once again on stage as always she had everyman's undivided attention; including Seifer's who was sitting at a front row table.
Rin hated the feeling of jealousy. It really wasn't a feeling she was used to and now that she was experiencing it she hoped she never had to feel it again.
As Victoria's voice rang in her ears resentment inside of her built up towards the woman. Not able to drown the noise out she created her own with the melodies that always sung in her head she let the words escape.
Maybe yes, maybe no
I kind of liked it your way
As you shyly place your eyes on me
Oh, did you ever know
That I had mine on you
A familiar voice awoke her from her trance.
"It should be you up on that stage," said the voice.
Rin felt her heart tighten it was the voice of the only man she knew who couldn't be mesmerized by the beautiful Victoria. The only person she told about her inner desire to become a singer. The only person her boyfriend truly hated.
It was the voice of Squall Lionheart. She looked up at him he was just as handsome as ever. At the sight of him relief that she didn't know had swept over her.
"Hey Squall," she said pleasantly, but painfully "long time no see."
She could see a quick glint of pain appear in his eyes, but was gone as quickly as it came. It made Rin feel bad that she couldn't give him a more affectionate greeting, but she was with Seifer now…She threw a quick glance over to her boyfriend who was still fixating on Victoria.
What harm can come from a hug she thought and wrapped her arms around the young mercenary; Squall returned the gesture and wrapped his arms around her. Rin was suddenly swept with a warm comfort that came from being in Squall's arms. It scared her and she abruptly broke the hug.
Squall looked at her uncomfortably. Breaking the tension that had come between the two she asked him.
"So Mr. Lionheart where have you've been the last month?"
"In a word…hell," with concern she focused her troubled eyes on the young man.
"What happened?" she asked.
"A lot, but let's just say you don't want to go down to Deling City anytime soon."
Before Rin could ask why she shouldn't go to Deling she caught sight of Squall's dreamy gaze on her.
"What is it?" Rin asked.
Squall looking embarrassed quickly took his eyes off from her. With a blush forming on his face that was redder then an apple Squall managed to stumble out words.
"I…I…was…you know…just thinking…I was thinking…how beautiful you are."
Now Rin was blushing the two embarrassedly turned away from each other. They didn't speak again until Victoria's voice had gone away and the bar returned to its regular activity level.
Squall was the first to speak.
"Rin if your not doing anything tomorrow night I was wondering if you would want to go out."
"Squall," she said sadly, but before she could say anything else she felt another body join her behind the counter. It was Seifer he wrapped his arm around her like marking his territory.
Seifer snarled at Squall "She can't because she's with me."
Hurt showed in his eyes. Squall got up getting the picture, Seifer made it impossible for him not to.
He glanced angrily at Seifer. No, she was mistaken it wasn't anger or even resentment it was look of being hurt.
Without another look at her Squall started to leave. She watched as he neared the bar's door. She wanted to call after him, but no words came out. Rin still felt Seifer's arm around her as Squall turned around one last time.
"Your luck Seifer she's a pretty good gal," Without another word Squall left. Squall's departure left her with a surprised feeling one she hadn't expected. He left her feeling lost.
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Hey! Okay, well, that was the second chapter, hope you likes! Aren't you glad I FINALLY put it up?
heheheheh, okay, well, anyways, thank-you very much for your reviews:
PrincessMercury: I'm glad you like it!
Keiry: I hope you read the rest, and I'm happy that you like it so far!
The third chapter will be up soon! I promise!!!!!