By my Side

A/N: Unbelievable, I know, I'm not dead yet. I don't have anything to blame for this delay, except for my lazy Scorpio butt. This chapter is dedicated to Loika, her 13th birthday was a -while- ago, but a late present is better than no present, right?

113 reviews already *falls over*, I thank every single one of you who had taken the time to make my day better. The least I could do is present you with a badly written chapter... so here goes *rubs head*.

Disclaimer: I do not own beyblade or its characters, I just borrow them from time to time for a little fun.

"Talking"
(Thinking)

Chapter 8:
The new arrival

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The morning sun shone brightly past the closed curtains, stirring something within the sleeping boy. With a yawn Rei groggily opened his eyes, rubbing them in an attempt to restore his normal vision. Rolling on his side, he expected to be greeted by the warm body of his boyfriend; however instead, cold sheets met him in a 'good morning' note.

Rei wasn't a morning person, and definitely didn't like waking up to cold sheets. Agitated, the boy sat up, long raven tresses sprawled across his backside, messy. Golden orbs darted around as his focus came back he was assaulted with a bright room, a very quiet bright room. His senses were telling him something was not right, but what can possibly go wrong at the start of the day?

Wrong.

But come to think of it, Kai was nowhere to be seen. Rei was aware of the fact that the scarlet eyed boy was usually up at the crack of dawn, especially at weekdays. Even at the weekends Kai rarely slept in, and you could almost always find him at the top of the building looking into the distance. But ever since the two got together Kai had subconsciously gained more hours of sleep, mostly due to the fact that Rei preferred to wake up with something warm, preferably the slate haired boy himself.

Growling at the fact that Kai wasn't there, a sense of reality finally kicked in the boy.

School.

Even more annoyed, Rei sat up unwillingly. Shifting off the bed his bare feet came in contact with the cold tiles and the boy shivered involuntarily. Trotting over to his own bed Rei grabbed the neglected school shirt and spared a glance at the alarm clock for the time, dismissing the fact that the device did not go off this morning. After all, he almost always woke up on time. No, rephrase. Kai always woke him up.

7:30 am

As the new piece of information sank in, golden eyes widened miraculously, shaking away the last signs of sleepiness as Rei caught sight of the small digital screen. Rubbing his eyes gingerly, the boy made sure his vision wasn't fooling him before he took a more decent glance at the clock.

Nothing changed.

Blinking once. Twice. The raven haired boy finally realized the circumstance presented to him.

" KAI!!!!!"

A flock of startled birds took flight from their residing branch.

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Within the steamy confines of the bathroom a figure clad in school uniform was seen in front of the mirror idly drying his damp slate bangs with a towel. A pair of amused crimson eyes stared back through the mirror; its owner tilted his head, snickering to himself.

" I was wondering when he was going to wake up."

Gripping the doorknob, Kai twisted it to allow himself access into the room.

==========

More than irritated, Rei quickly pulled out a change of clothes. Keeping one eye on the alarm clock he started to fold his covers and make his bed, cleaning out the rubbish that somehow found their way under the wooden bed frame. Two minutes later, Rei took in the view of his made bed, thinking it would have to do, for now. Rushing out to the balcony the boy hastily pulled off a random pair of grey school pants, hoping Kai wouldn't mind if it was his. Speaking of which, Rei would give that boy a piece of his mind for not waking him up.

Now he was late and it was all Kai's fault.

Walking back into the dormitory Rei tried his best to ignore the perfectly made bed opposite his, Kai's bed. Directing his gaze upwards he was greeted with the site of the bemused boy himself leaning nonchalantly against the wardrobe, arms crossed with his trademark face paint in place. Customary grey pants hung loosely down long lean legs while an untucked white shirt graced over his upper body, slightly revealing planes of muscles under. The navy tie draped casually around an open collar completed the look. The boy's appearance almost made wearing school uniform look cool.

Correction, he did.

Kai simply watched as Rei fumbled with his clothing then sported a casual glance at his wrist watch.

" You better hurry up or else we'll be late." he stated matter-of-factly.

A glare.

" I don't like waiting you know."

Humph.

" Just hurry up."

The bathroom door slammed.

It was ten minutes before the raven haired boy emerged from the steamy bathroom all dressed and ready to go. While placing his spare clothes back in the wardrobe Rei noticed that his bed had been remade, not a trace of crinkle to be seen anywhere. He let a smile spread across his feline features as he adjusted his bandana then walked over to where his companion stood waiting. The expression on Kai's face gave nothing away but Rei knew the boy had made his bed for him.

Typical Kai.

Then again, if it wasn't for Kai he wouldn't be running late in the first place.

With a shrug Kai pushed himself off the wardrobe in order to stand properly, slate bangs swayed slightly at the momentum.

" Ready to go?" Gesturing at Rei he proceeded to walk towards the doorway.

An affirmative nod was the only answer he got as Rei promptly followed the boy. But within three steps Kai was forced to stand still as the raven haired teen wrapped both arms around his waist from behind, hugging him tight. Leaning forwards Rei closed in their distance, resting his chest on Kai's back and his chin on Kai's shoulders.

" Isn't it great to have a boyfriend who does everything for you?" teasingly he said.

" Sure. I wouldn't mind swapping roles for a change." Rolling his eyes Kai threw the sarcastic remark.

" Thanks for making my bed." Nuzzling the slender neck Rei spoke. His words were barely a whisper but the proximity was enough to let Kai hear it.

Turning around crimson locked with amber in an intense gaze. Soon a smirk curved up Kai's lips as the boy replied, playfulness biding his tone.

" You needed it."

Hearing the remark, Rei quickly detached himself from Kai to stand next to the boy. Crossing his arms and pretending to be angry at his counterpart Rei tapped his foot lightly and pouted.

" Humph. If someone bothered to wake me up this morning I wouldn't have to be in a hurry and you wouldn't...." The golden eyed boy's words were muffled effectively by moist warm lips connecting with his as Kai bent over to steal a kiss from the him. Startled at first, Rei soon leaned into the familiar touch and kissed back, entwining his hands in the cerulean strands and deepened the kiss by pulling the slate haired boy closer.

Aware of the time, Kai broke the kiss reluctantly and drew back, drinking in the image of the boy in front of him. Running his thumb gently across the smooth skin Kai placed a light feather kiss brow and spoke.

" You're cute when you're angry."

" Of course!" Rei beamed, tilting his head and flashing his sharp canines.

" I take that back. Just shut up and let's go."

Offering a reassuring squeeze to Rei's hand Kai stepped out into the corridor.

The trip to the cafeteria was made in silence with the pair just enjoying each other's company and presence.

==========

The classroom was quiet except for the steady whirring of the spinning fans. Students sat still, silence engulfed the tense atmosphere as they awaited for their teacher to speak; whom currently was looking through a fold of paper. Emerald eyes lazily scanned the pages behind thick rectangular spectacles. Apprehension took on eager faces, while some looked spaced out, others didn't seem to care. All except for a certain enigma at the corner of the classroom, opting for the touch-me-not blank look.

Bored, that was what Kai was. Maths never seemed more tedious, repetitive and absolutely unexciting, especially the way some teachers choose to teach. Nevertheless, as much as the boy hated the subject, he wasn't fond of detentions either. So the best thing to do was do your work and avoid interaction with the teachers, just to get them off your back.

Make that avoid interaction with the whole school.

True, Kai disliked getting involved with his regular classmates, preferring his time alone. One of his favourite past time was to stand atop the dormitory rooftop, stare into space and just let his thoughts roam. It has become a sanctuary for him, the fewer places in school where stolidity and peace could be obtained. However that all became history; some, if not all; when a certain exchange student came across his life. At times Kai would sit down and pinch himself, to make sure all this wasn't just a beautiful mirage, just an illusion. Truth be told, Kai was glad that Rei was the one who broke through his impassive out shell, and that Rei was the one he could share his joy and love with.

He had changed so much, in terms of beliefs and emotionally, and it was all because of Rei. Sometimes Kai wondered that he must be the luckiest boy on earth to have Rei as his lover, the boy was a truly beautiful creature with a heart of gold. And to think that you were the object of affection of something so beautiful, it was a wonderful feeling. Heck, Kai never thought he was capable of the emotion called love, let alone show it.

But Rei had helped him, been there for him, and most of all, showed him what love was.

And Kai knew he would love Rei with all his being.

It was only within the confines of their dormitory or with Rei alone would Kai freely show his affection. In the classroom, Kai would slip on his mask and be the impassive loner that everyone else thought he was. Though Kai tried to ignore Rei like the others, the boy always had a knack of engaging him in a conversation without knowing. Conversation topics varied from work, tests and general things; yet Rei always managed to astray topics, which ultimately ends with a "hn." by Kai.

The clank of a cup being placed on the table brought the students' attention back to the front of the classroom. It seemed that the teacher had finished her final inspections of the papers. Clearing her throat she spoke, not exactly the best voice you'd hear.

" I have here the results of your recent test. Most of your scores are pleasing but there are a couple of individuals I want to discuss with. Come and collect your paper when your name is read."

Shifting her glasses the teacher started to distribute the papers.

" Max Tate." the first words rolled off her tongue.

A blonde boy almost jumped out of his seat in the forth row. With swift steps he walked near the front desk, taking the sheet of paper from the teacher's out stretched hand. Briefly scanning the page a smile crossed his features, Max then walked back down the isle flashing a thumbs up to his companions.

" Tyson Granger."

The said lad rose from his seat and retrieved his test paper, a smile too spreading across his face, pleased with his results. Tyson returned to his desk where Kenny and Max were already discussing about the test.

The next few minutes passed in similar fashion, the teacher calling out the names and the respective students retrieving their papers. Facial expressions varied from the cheerful smiles of those who were pleased with their results; and the faltered grins of those who were disappointed.

" Kai Hiwatari."

Standing up from his seat, Kai walked from his corner down the isle in a clam and collected posture, the ever present 'I-don't-care' façade in place. In fact, tests were the last thing he would care about, unless it was the yearly exams, where even Kai would revise. He wasn't about to stay behind a grade because he couldn't answer the questions in some stupid paper, since listening in class was not one of his specialties. Lucky for him, with only a small amount of revision Kai was always able to acquire a high score. He never quite really understood why, but hell he wasn't about to complain.

Ignoring the usual stares of the class Kai stood aside the front desk where the teacher held out his paper. Taking the page Kai turned around without sparing a glance at the test. He was about to return to his seat when the teacher spoke.

" Good work Kai, you have received the highest mark in the class."

Acknowledging the fact with a 'hn' Kai walked back to his seat, passing Rei who was awaiting for his paper.

" So how'd you go?" the raven haired boy asked.

" Not bad." Kai responded, letting a small grin climb up his face.

" Sure, just full marks. No big deal." Rei scoffed.

" Watch it you." the one standing retorted.

" Meanie." Rei grumbled softly, however turning it into an innocent smile without delay as an intense garnet glare directed at him.

" Rei Kon."

Hearing his name the boy got up and trotted over to retrieve his paper. Nearing the teacher, Rei saw that she hadn't held out any sheets, but instead her arms were crossed in a sinister manner. Soon Rei stood next to the desk, looking expectantly at the teacher for his test paper. He was about to inquire when the teacher looked up at him, seriousness bidding her emerald orbs.

" Rei, there is something I wish to discuss with you." the tone was formal.

Confused was probably the best word to describe Rei at this moment. He was just supposed to get up, retrieve his paper and sit back down; somehow he had winded up a 'chat' with his teacher. And from the tone of her voice things definitely didn't sound good, not at all.

(Whatever it is, it can't be good.) the silent thought crossed his mind.

The teacher stood up and motioned Rei to follow her; leading him out in the corridors she then turned back to instruct the class.

" You should be finishing off the worksheets from yesterday, and when you are done, proceed with chapter eight from your textbooks."

Outside Rei leaned against the wall with his arms crossed, while his mind raced through possible reasons why the teacher might want to talk to him about. (Could it be that she found out I put that cricket in her bag? But that was Tyson's idea. Or does she know that I sprinkled chalk dust over her coat? Probably not.) His train of thoughts were interrupted as the teacher returned, closing the door behind her.

" Rei, do you know the reason I wish to talk to you?"

Shaking his head earnestly Rei replied with a "no."

" Then take a look at this."

Extending her arm the teacher held out a piece of paper, offering it to Rei. Seizing the page the raven haired teen read it without hesitation, his expression alternating from curious to disbelief in a few short seconds.

" Mrs Culton, I... I..." Rei chocked out in his startled state.

" I must say I am disappointed with you Rei, I have expected more from you than this." the teacher continued in a reprimanding approach.

" I'm sorry." the boy answered quietly.

" Apologising won't do any good now, do you have any reason why you think you have fallen behind the rest of the class?"

" I guess I haven't really put my mind into my studies lately." Rei lowered his head.

" Well then, I don't know what's going on in your life; but I suggest you prioritise your studies before anything else Rei." Her voice was no longer harsh, but advising.

" Yes, Mrs Culton."

" Don't be put down by this Rei, I see a lot of potential in you and I'm sure you can bring it out. As for this test, it only accounts for a small percentage of your yearly results so you needn't worry about it too much."

" I understand."

" Now come in and finish off your work from yesterday. And let this be a lesson for you Rei." the teacher spoke in a dismissive manner before entering the classroom once more, Rei following soon after.

==========

A young teen strode down the length of the office corridors in a confident stance, the plush carpet absorbed the otherwise footstep noises. One hand carried a simple duffle bag while its counterpart held several sheets of paper. He was dressed in a short-sleeved light blue shirt and casual black jeans; a pair of sunglasses shielded his eyes, but not his vision. Reaching the end of the corridor he stopped before finely carved and polished double doors; the entrance closed with a soft click as the boy admitted entrance to the principal's office.

" So there you are, I've been expecting you." A cheery bold man in his mid-fifties spoke.

" Greetings, Mr Dickenson."

" How was your trip?" questioned the principal as he reallocated a pile of paperwork to one side.

" Enjoyable." came the curt reply.

" No troubles I hope?"

" None at all sir. By the way here are the forms you asked me to fill out." the teen passed the papers in his hand to Mr Dickenson who began to examine them.

" Take a seat, would you like a drink?" the old man offered.

" Tempting, but no thanks. I was hoping you could inform me of my dormitory room number, I'm afraid I didn't get a very good rest on the plane." the free hand ruffled through wild bangs as the teen inquired.

" Of course. You'll be staying in dormitory no. 405, do you want somebody to take you there?"

" I think I'll manage." he responded.

" Good then. I'll have someone to carry your uniforms and supplies to you later today, and here is your timetable." the principal informed, handing a small piece of paper to the teen.

" Thanks, I'll be off then."

And with that the boy left the office, once more closing the double doors with a click before heading for his dormitory.

==========

The instant Rei walked out the door with the teacher, Kai knew something was wrong. Rei wasn't the kind to get into trouble, nor did the boy have difficulties with his academic skills; okay so Rei was no maths wizard but he shouldn't have any problems. Opening his textbook Kai pretended to work, while still contemplating Rei's situation. Looking to his right he spotted the neglected backdoor and an idea sprang into his mind.

The convenience of sitting in the back corner.

Sporting a quick glance at the rest of the class Kai made sure no one was looking at him. The whole class was engaged in either talking or working, good. Pushing his chair back until it aligned with the door Kai proceeded to pull back his desk as well. Satisfied with his position the slate haired boy then began to shift his desk leftwards until a considerable amount of space formed a gap. Making sure once more nobody noticed him Kai gripped the doorknob, pulling the door back, opening until it touched his desk.

Sticking his head out the boy surveyed the corridors, stopping when a silhouette met his gaze.

Even though his vision was limited, Kai could see Rei leaning with one side of the wall. The boy had his back to Kai but a piece of paper was clearly clutched in his left hand. Rei had his head lowered and was saying something, inaudible to Kai because of the noise in the classroom. Opposite Rei stood the teacher with her arms crossed, also speaking. The conversation lasted for minutes only, seeing the teacher turn around Kai hastily closed the backdoor, repositioning his chair and desk to their original state.

For the rest of the lesson Kai couldn't help to notice how quiet Rei was; usually the boy would be chatting to Max and Kenny or snicker silently as Tyson attempts something silly. Kai had saw the disappointment written on Rei's face as he walked in, a look not well suited on the handsome youth.

Kai was so wound up in his own thoughts that he ceased to notice the ring of the bell, it wasn't until Rei running out the door did he realise the time. Hurriedly shoving his books into the under-desk drawer, Kai made use of the backdoor once more; rushing out to the corridor he caught glimpse of a long braid swishing, disappearing up and behind a staircase.

(This is lunchtime, where does he think he's going?)

Without a second thought Kai too, ran up the staircase his companion disappeared behind; eager to find out what was going on.

==========

The mild breeze twirled around branches, a silent invitation for its green leaves to join in the harmonious dance. The sun shone in her full glory, sparkling radiance reflected by trees, casting living shadows onto the still ground.

A figure made his way up the deserted staircases and pass the empty corridors of the dormitory building. The majority of the students were in the cafeteria enjoying their lunch, therefore hardly anyone was present. Weaving through numerous passageways and scanning the numberplates on the otherwise identical doors, the boy eventually reached his destination.

Taking off his sunglasses the teen inspected the rusted metal numbers on the door, making sure he had the right room. Confirmation in place he twisted the doorknob; with a push the boy stepped inside the confines of his new dormitory.

==========

" Rei?" Kai called out uncertainly.

Holding open the metal gate with one hand Kai surveyed the bare area in front of him, spotting for any trace of the golden eyed teen. He was no less concerned for Rei; acting strangely silence in class then running up the rooftop without lunch was not normal Rei behaviour. Kai figured it must be connected to Rei's talk with the teacher, but he would have to get the finer details off the boy himself.

Stepping out onto the concrete pavers the slate haired boy let his sight do the talking, crimson orbs darted within their confines, scrutinising. Pivoting on his heels Kai was greeted with the site of a lone figure, bending over the fence with his head rested on the back of his palms. A long, braided ponytail swayed against the melodic rhythm of the gentle wind.

(REI!) Kai's mind shouted.

Deciding he best not disturb the boy, Kai sauntered in Rei's direction as noiselessly as possible, not trusting himself to interrupt the surrounding peace. He wondered whether Rei noticed his attendance, then again, it wasn't important. Settling for a neutral approach Kai halted his step next to the braided boy; choosing to lean against the fence on one side, he propped one elbow up on the railing to support his chin. Rei seemed not to discern the one next to him, golden orbs trained on the distance; if you were a sharp observer you would have noticed the dusty dim shades clouding the otherwise luminous jewels.

Kai didn't need to be a sharp observer to make out the boy's despair.

He could sense the mixed emotions tumbling out of the teen next to him, feel the uncertainty pulsating through his body.

Neither boys made any sound for the next few minutes, lost in their own trance of thoughts, to an extent grateful at the silence bestowed upon them. Before the atmosphere became eerie a flutter of wings proved enough to bring Rei back to reality, as he turned his head around, instant eye contact connected him with Kai's own pair of crimson pools.

Again silence followed, only this time locking both boys within each other's gaze.

" Rei..." Kai spoke in an unnaturally soft voice which could have easily been mistaken for a mere whistle of the wind.

No words came from the boy who opted to continue their little staring competition.

" Are you okay?" the blue haired teen inquired, apprehension masking his voice.

Instead of replying, Rei turned away, positioning himself as he was earlier.

No satisfied with the response he received, Kai placed one arm over Rei's shoulder gingerly, turning the boy to look at him.

" You can tell me what's wrong Rei." he tried to offer reassurance.

" Leave me alone Kai, I screwed up."

(Something is definitely wrong, Rei is never pessimistic.) Kai's inner thoughts confirmed.

" I won't until you tell me what's wrong, I can help you."

" I stuffed up my test okay? Now would you leave me alone?" Rei's voice was barely more than a monotone.

" Is that it?"

(Quit being a jerk Kai, he needs your support, not someone to rub it in.)

" NO! That's not it! In case you haven't noticed, I'm not Mr. I'm-good-at-everything, I'm a normal human being who has a right to do badly in tests Kai." The raven haired boy exclaimed, balling his fists, white knuckles becoming apparent.

" I didn't mean that Rei, I-" before he had a chance to finish his sentence Rei's words trailed in.

" I'm an exchange student Kai, I'm suppose to be studying hard to achieve high grades, I can't afford to let all my friends and family down." the boy's voice softened in disappointment.

Placing both hands on Rei's shoulder Kai gripped him tightly, making sure to emphasise every word as he spoke.

" Look Rei," he shook the boy softly, " first of all, you are not a screw up, so don't you dare put yourself in self-denial because I'm not going to let you."

Brushing one of Kai's hand off his shoulder Rei spoke, " I'm really not in the mood for a lecture Kai."

" No you listen to me," crimson eyes shone with determination, " if you let yourself fall into depression because of a small obstruction or downfall in your life, then you will be letting your friends and family down, not to mention you would be letting me down."

" But... what can I do... " Rei muttered more to himself than anyone.

Closing the distance between their bodies Kai held Rei in a close embrace, draping his arms across the golden eyed teen's back then running his hands up and down in an attempt to sooth the boy.

" Start by having some faith in yourself Rei. Faith. I know you can be so much better Rei, I just know it. Don't ever, ever let yourself down because of something as trivial as a test, it's not worth it..." Kai whispered in Rei's ears.

" I'll try... for you." And with those words Rei just let himself melt into Kai's arm, surrendering into the sensation of the strong arms holding him, supporting him. Entwining his arms around the pale neck Rei rested his head on Kai's shoulder, seeking more refuge from the warm body pressed against his.

Smiling, Kai poured his heart into that one simple hug. Encouraging words didn't happen to be one of his specialties either, but the person he tried to help was Rei, and that made all the difference. Lifting his hand to ruffle through Rei's dark bangs Kai placed a quick kiss on the top of his head.

" I'll help you."

Withdrawing from the embrace Rei's hands lingered on the slate haired boy's forearm. Elegantly raising one quizzical eyebrow he managed to stifle a chuckle and spoke.

" The great Kai Hiwatari wants to help me? Geez, I am so stoked." the raven haired boy mocked.

" I can always just let you fail the next test, and the next, oh and the yearly exams too." Kai replied, making sure his tone was causal and offhanded.

" That's mean." the younger boy pouted.

" Humph."

Using Kai's arms as support Rei pressed forward, brushing his lips briefly past Kai's, sharing a swift kiss. Pulling back Rei motioned Kai to come with him as he started to stroll towards the doorway; seeing his lover didn't follow him after about five steps Rei called out.

" Kai, you coming back to the dorm with me?"

" You go ahead, I'm gonna stay a bit longer." the blue haired teen replied.

" Come back soon 'kay?" reminded Rei with a smile; he didn't hear the reply as the metal gate closed behind him with a clank.

==========

Walking past the corridors filled with chatter and laughter Rei couldn't help but feel his spirits lifting up considerably. Hopefully everything was going to be alright from now, he wouldn't want to fail another test, especially with Kai being his 'private tutor'. But Rei knew he would be ready for whatever tomorrow has installed for him; though what he didn't count on was what, or who in this case, he saw the moment he stepped into his dormitory...

The back of a slim figure greet Rei's sight, bent over and neatly stacking his clothes into the wardrobe adjacent to his own. A loose fitting navy shirt and white sweat pants were his only attire. An alien scent reached Rei's nostrils, who presumed it to be the person's shampoo. Bare footed, the boy shifted right, picking up a small towel and started to dry his hair, which Rei had noticed, was a shade of fiery crimson.

Sensing the intrusion, the figure spun around and stared Rei straight in the eye. And as if on cue, the golden eyed teen found himself unable to move, pinned down by the pair of piercing sapphire orbs, yet mesmerised by the intense depths of the azure pools.

Three words slipped out of Rei's mouth instinctively.

" Who are you?"

tbc...

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A/N: The secret's out, any guesses? But first let me congratulate you on getting this far without falling asleep. I must apologize for the poor quality of this chapter, this is what you get for sacrificing your 'exam revision' nights to write. The evil reign of exams will fall next Monday morning, oh dear.

On another very bright hand, my birthday is coming up. So if you enjoyed this chapter, please help to make this person's 14th birthday just that little bit more special, reviews make the best present.

I hope this chapter prevents further pineapples being thrown at me *dodges*. Disruptions are once more settling in my life, not only do I have to worry about how to scrape through my exams, four of my relatives will be staying in my house (my room, for about 2 weeks). Naturally implying I won't have as much time or privacy to write.

So until next time, and let's hope I don't get killed by pineapples.