Copyright © 2003
Author's note: Sorry for the late updates, guys. We had some technical issues. But as always, here is the next chapter!!!
But first, some answers to reviewers:
sk8ergirl483: Ahh good point! That will play into the story later, but for the record, No, Rika has no idea it was Hunter who saved her, and she doesn't know that it almost killed him!
Mysterio: As always, Dustin will be paired up later. But you'll have to wait for it. Hang in there with us.
Shanewestlover: Tori is paired up with someone. Sorry if it isn't obvious enough, we think its Shane. They do seem to have a nice dynamic, yes?
And yes, Cam will have someone too.
And now.we present the next chapter~ Ennnjoy!!!
~~~~~~~~~
"Hey Clare! Wait up." Blake breathed slightly as he as he slowed to a walk next to Clare who was steadily avoided looking anywhere other than straight forward as she made her way through the park not caring where she was going as long as it was away from Ninja Ops and Rika.
"What do you want, Blake? Now is really not a good time for me." Clare replied in a low tone, barely acknowledging Blake.
"Are you alright?" As soon as the words left his lips, he knew it was the wrong thing to say.
Clare jerked her brisk pace to a halt; still glaring forward she turned her head slightly to the side.
Blake put his hands in the air, "Sorry. It was stupid."
Glaring at Blake a little longer, Clare sighed, her shoulders slumping, "No, I'm sorry. It's not your fault. You have nothing to do with this."
Coming closer, Blake reached out and slid an arm around her slim shoulders giving her half a hug. Clare closed her eyes and leaned slightly into him, as he lowered his head a bit he murmured, "It's ok. You and I both know that she's just worried about you. It's that older sibling 'I gotta look out for you, whether you like it or not' thing. They can't help it."
Clare lowered her gaze to the ground smiling slightly, "Yeah I know. Still it's so annoying and-and frustrating!"
"Yeah, Hunter used to do that to me all the time."
Now she cocked her head up and to the side to see his face while arching her brow, "Oh? Well he certainly doesn't seem to be doing it now."
Blake laughed slightly before answering, "He finally got the message through that head of his just before we got our morphers."
The two laughed quietly as Blake let his arm drop and slipped his hands into his pockets; together they walked through the park talking of other things until they came under the shade of a tree.
Blake stopped, with his hands still in his pockets he stood with his head cocked slightly to the side, squinting slightly in the sun's rays that managed to weave its way through the green foliage above; as he watched Clare continue walking a few steps before she realized that he wasn't with her. Clare glanced around to the sides before turning all the way around then seeing him under the tree, she cocked her head to the side, puzzled; unsure of what to do she uncrossed her arms and slipped her own hands into her jacket pockets while leaning on one leg. The two stood apart for a few moments, both studying and waiting for the other to make a move first, Clare sighed and took a few steps forward back to Blake.
"Wha's up? Is something wrong?"
"Naw. Just lookin' at the scenery."
With a small, slightly cocky smile, Clare took a few steps closer, looking up into his eyes, "Oh? And what do you see?"
Studying her dark brown eyes, with an even cockier grin he replied, "Something very, very beautiful."
Clare quickly dropped her gaze to the ground, letting her shoulder-length hair fall around her face, hoping that he wouldn't see the blush furiously coloring her cheeks.
Of course, he noticed and grinned even wider, slowly he pulled his hand out of his pocket and raised it to her chin; gently he pushed her head up until he could see her soft brown eyes.
Gradually, closing his eyes he lowered his head down to her scarcely breathing, he paused, his mouth only a few centimeters from Clare's, then gently he brushed his lips against hers; a feather would have had a harder touch. Clare could feel his breath flow over her mouth; she shivered as a small current of electricity traversed through her body. She could sense him shudder slightly as well, in the back of her mind she realized that the electricity wasn't a feeling but that it was real but she didn't care. She just wanted the moment to last forever. Blake couldn't help but smile as he felt the small but gentle current spark through his body, starting from his lips to the rest, the euphoria caused him to feel like he was flying and the only thing that was preventing him from flying away was the contact of his lips on Clare's and his hand still under her chin.
Finally the two pulled apart, Blake let his hand drop as they broke the connection; both smiled and blushed as they simultaneously dropped their gazes to the ground.
"Whoa." Was the only word the two could think of or say, smiling the two looked up; Clare, seeing his eyes, she blushed and immediately dropped her gaze again while Blake turned his head to the side to look at something else. While Clare's head was still lowered with her eyes closed, he turned his head back to watch her as he quietly laughed. /Man, it felt like my first time all over again.Damn! This was even better!/
Slipping his arms around her shoulders he pulled her to his chest as she leaned into his chest. Quietly, hardly louder than a whisper, he murmured, "I love you."
Clare's eyes flew open as she jerked her head up with shock in her wide eyes, but remained silent.
Blake stumbled over his words, "I - I'm sorry. I didn't mean to."
She slowly blinked, a spark deep within brightened. Gradually a smile came upon her lips, the dimples that he so loved appeared; he longed to reach up and brush the strand of hair from her face, "I love you too."
An intense joy grew in his heart and spread its warmth throughout his body as a grin soon spread across his face, the joy and excitement shining in his eyes as he looked down upon the Asian girl in his arms.
Suddenly he was struck by an idea, "Hey Clare, remember that invite I gave you to the track?"
"Of course, how could I forget? It was the first time we met." /Or rather my soccer ball met your stomach, which I have no doubt was painful./ Clare thought but she kept that to herself not wanting to remind him.
Blake still winced at the memory, still remembering, "Yeah. So do you still wanna try Motocross?"
Clare lifted her head up to look at Blake, "Do us Rangers kick Lothor's butt every time?"
Blake smiled as he looked down into Clare's dark brown eyes, "Alright, then let's go."
"Wait. Now?"
"Course, now's a good of time as any other. Besides, whenever my brother and I are bummed out or pissed about something, we always hit the track."
"Ok, let's catch some air!"
"Right on!"
Both laughed and walked to the bus station, Blake's arm around her shoulders, and on the ride to the track, they never let go of each other's hand.
~~~~~~~~~~ At Storm Chargers
"Yo, why're we stopping here?" Clare turned her head to look back at Blake as they stepped off the bus.
"Watch your step!" Blake's arm shot out grabbing Clare's arm as she stumbled slightly but by then she had already recovered her footing.
"Whoops! Sorry, wasn't watching...thanks." Clare's face turned a light shade of pink; looking down at her arm she noticed that Blake still hadn't let go of her arm, glancing back up she twitched at eyebrow ever so slightly.
Now it was his turn to blush as he let released his grasp, if not reluctantly and brushed his way past her to lead into the sports store. Clare could not help smiling slightly before following; just as he reached out to push the door Clare slipped her hand into his, automatically his hand tightened slightly around hers and together they entered.
"Hey Kel', whaddup?" Blake lifted his other hand in a slight salute while nodding as well.
"Blake? What are you doing here? Today's not your shift." A woman with red hair and a puzzled expression, somewhere around Cam's age stopped in her tracks with a pile of clothing in her arms, as she turned to look at Blake, her presently off duty employee. Then noticing the smaller Asian girl somewhat behind him, gave her a warm smile of welcome. "Hi. I'm Kelly and guess you know Blake already?"
Kelly wondered when she saw the girl blush slightly before looking down and noticed the two holding hands. With a knowing smile she winked and gave an obvious glance at the couple's hands at Blake who blushed as well.
"Uh, yeah, umm. Kell' this is Clare, Clare this is Kelly, she owns Storm Chargers and this is where Dustin, Hunter and I work. Oh and Clare and her sister just moved here.
Clare's cheeks were still slightly pink as she stepped forward, "H-hi. Nice to meet you."
Maneuvering around the clothing, Kelly smiled again as she managed to stick a hand out and shake Clare's hand. "Nice to meet you too. Welcome to my store."
"Here, I'll take them." Blake took a step forward to take the clothes, but Clare beat him to it.
"I'll help."
"No, it's alright." But by then, Clare already had the load in her arms, "Are you sure? They're kind of heavy." Kelly gave her a worried glance.
Clare gave Kelly a small cocky smile, "Don't worry, I can handle it."
Kelly exchanged her glance to Blake, who could only shrug, "What can I say? She can. They go on the racks with the other clothes."
Clare smiled, with a nod she turned to the clothes racks and hung the sweaters up in color-coded order.
Kelly turned back to Blake with a smile, "So, I see you got yourself a girlfriend, good for you." She lightly slapped him on the arm.
Blake grinned as he glanced down at the floor. "Yeah, she's great."
"I can tell, she's seems like a sweet girl." Turning back she waved at Clare who was almost finished and waved back.
"She really is-umm, is there a 'but' I hear?"
"Yes actually. Isn't she a little too young for you?"
Blake opened his mouth to deny it when...
"Hehe, I'm really seventeen. But don't worry, I get that a lot."
Both Blake and Kelly jumped when they heard Clare's voice, spinning around they could see Clare standing behind them with a cheeky grin and her hands folded in the manner of the innocent.
Taking advantage of his boss's surprise, Blake asked, "Hey, Kell'? Uh, we're planning on hitting the track but we need some gear for Clare. Could we sort of borrow a set? Just for today."
"Well..."
"Cummon Kel', just for today. I promise to have it clean before we give it back, 'k?"
Kelly consented, "Alright, alright. Just for today, and it had better be clean, I don't want even a speck of dust on it when I get it back!"
"Thanks a lot Kel' and don't worry." Turning to Clare he gestured with his head towards the back with Motocross gear hanging on metal racks, "Cummon, we need to get you some padding."
"Wait a sec, you two."
Both teens jerked to a stop in their tracks and turned back to face Blake's boss who came over and put an arm around Clare's shoulders. "Sorry Blake, but when it comes to material to be worn, leave it to the pros. You're staying right there." Kelly winked at Blake again and the two walked off to get the gear and clothing, leaving Blake behind, scratching the back of his head, /Females, I'll never fully understand them./
Kelly grabbed some gloves, boots, shirt, pants, the smallest chest guard in her store, and a helmet and goggles.
Bringing them to the backroom, which was also used as her office, now presently used as a changing room she slipped them unto her desk for Clare to change into.
"Here, try these on. If you need help just knock, I'll be right outside."
"Thank you, I really appreciate it."
"Not a prob." With a smile, Kelly pulled her head out of the doorway.
Clare Ninja Stripped her civilian clothing, slipped on the pants and boots and pulled the shirt on over her head. They were just the right fit; now she picked up the light armor/padding and held it out in front of her, confused. She pulled it on and looked in the mirror, /What the heck? Which is the front and back? Guess I'll have to ask Kelly./
Taking a few strides to the door, Clare tapped and opened to let Kelly in. "Um, which is the front? Does it matter?"
Kelly stifled a laugh as she saw the teen wearing the chest guard backwards, "Com'ere. You have it on backwards."
Clare reddened and quickly pulled it off, reversed it, and pulled it back on.
"Ok, now it's time for the helmet. Tell me if it feels snug, if it's loose, I'll have to get you a smaller one."
"No, it feels a'ight. Pass me the goggles please?"
"Here you go." Kelly watched as Clare slipped the goggles over the helmet, "Feel's right?"
"Yeah, it does." Or at least that Kelly thought she heard, seeing the slight puzzlement Clare pulled off the helmet. "Thanks, it feels pretty comfortable. I really appreciate your help."
"You're very welcome, cummon, let's go show Blake how you look."
"Hehe, can't wait to see the look on his face!" Clare and Kelly laughed as they exited.
"Oh wait. One more thing."
"Uh, yeah? I mean, yes?"
"Don't worry about the cleaning thing."
"Wha'd'you mean? I'll clean it, Blake doesn't have to."
"No actually, I suggest that it should be cleaned...that is if you want it in good condition."
"Huh? But it's yours. Wai' wha'?"
Kelly laughed lightly, "It's yours. You keep it."
It took a second for the message to sink in, but when it did, "Oh shoot! YOU MEAN IT'S MINE!?!? THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! THIS IS SO COOL!!!" Clare was practically jumping up and down, a huge grin on her face.
Kelly was cracking up at Clare's excitement, and led her out after Clare calmed down somewhat.
Blake had already changed into his own Motocross clothing and had his padding and helmet hanging on his arm and looked up as Clare stepped out of the backroom with the Motocross clothing and bulky padding on. Stretching out her arms to her sides, Clare spun slowly as Kelly stood next to Blake, her hands in the back pockets of her jeans as she and Blake inspected her handiwork.
"So, what do you think?" Clare asked, still smiling.
Blake raised his eyebrows, furrowing his forehead, while his mouth was turned down in one of his characteristic frown-yet-not-a-frown things of his as he gestured with his hand. "You look great! You look like a factory pro...thanks Kel', I owe you one."
"Not a problem. Anytime. Oh and ah, you can borrow one of the rental bikes, you know where they are right, Blake?"
Blake nodded and clapped his hands, "Thanks again, Kel'. Ok, so let's hit the track! Now it's time t'see if you c'n ride like a pro. See ya." and walked out with a backwards wave, and his own Motocross gear hanging on his arm.
Clare followed him out and waved as well, "Thanks again! Later!"
Kelly waved back as she smiled and turned back to work, laughing again as she ran the scene of Clare's excitement again through her head and Blake's face when he saw his girlfriend.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
At the track
"Oh whoa! These bikes are so cool!" Clare exclaimed as she walked around the set of motorbikes lined up and ready for rent and tryouts. "Hey Blake, which one's yours?
"This one," Blake proudly proclaimed as he sat astride it, its struts sinking in slightly from his weight.
"Cool! Will you show me how to ride?"
"'Course. Here's the throttle..." As Blake explained the parts of the bike, he was amazed at how quickly Clare picked up the works.
"So, these are the struts that'll absorb the shock of when we land after the jumps, right?"
"Yep, you got it." With his head cocked, he stared a little hard at Clare, "Are you sure this is the first time you've ever Motocrossed?"
"Yeah, why? Hold up, I forgot to tell you, Aerie and I mountain bike so the I guess you can say the main difference between a manually-pedaled bike and BMX."
"Ahh, cool. So, you feel you're ready?"
"Ready as I'll ever be."
"Let's go!"
"A'ight! Let's have some fun!"
"See you at the finish line."
"Don't be too sure about that, I just might make you eat my dust!"
"Yeah right!"
Keeping up the friendly banter, the two wheeled their bikes to the starting/finishing line; ready they waited for the signal. Someone lifted the flag into the air, the sound of engines revving could be heard. The flag dropped and the race began.
Blake and Clare were already the first riders in the front of the other riders. Blake turned his helmeted head to look at Clare who was right next to him. /Hmm. Not bad. Actually, she's pretty good if she can keep up with me at this point./ Turning back to the front he saw the first jump coming up, /alright, now we'll see if she'll keep up with me on the jumps. If she pulls up too early, she'll get too much air in the jump and slow herself down. Too late and she won't catch any air at all./
Clare half-stood on her bike as they revved up the hill for the jump, while cracking the throttle a few more notches for more power.
"WOOHOO!!!" Clare couldn't help but yell it. The rush of flying flooded through her body as she pulled up at the right moment and soar through the air while still matching Blake.
Blake heard her yelling and grinned, /Apparently she's loving it./
Now both concentrated on the landing, as the ground seemed to surge up towards them. The two hit the ground far from the rest as both wheels slammed into the dirt.
Turn right-turn left-turn right-power slide, the last turn was very sharp, Blake and Clare were almost parallel to the ground with only their legs sticking out to prevent them from falling and their speed to get them through the turn. Dirt and dust flew from the backend of the bikes, almost blinding the rest of the riders behind the Rangers.
/Alright! Another jump! Here's a surprise for you Blake!/ Clare thought to herself. Up in the air, she locked her feet against the handlebars and threw her head back, her body positioned in a 'bird's nest' and pulled out before landing the bike back on the track.
Blake's eyes widened in shock, /NO WAY! HOW THE HECK DOES A NEWBIE KNOW HOW TO DO THAT?!?!?!?!/
Both Rangers passed the last turn and crossed the finishing line together.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"That was the COOLEST thing! No wonder you love it so much!" Clare couldn't stop gushing about how awesome Motocross had been. The rush of adrenaline and the speed! It was just awesome."
Blake smiled and nodded, "Hehe, that's why I love it so much. When I'm riding, I forget about everything and it's just me, air and the track!"
Clare laughed, "Yeah, it is definitely cool."
The two of them were walking back from the track. Clare had forgotten about much of her earlier fight with her sister and was looking forward to seeing her. Regardless of how angry she had gotten, she couldn't stay mad at her sister for long. Plus, she knew that Aeri was just looking out for her. She also knew that Aeri would get a kick out of Motocross.
"I can't wait to tell Aeri. She's gotta try it!"
Blake laughed, "Yeah, we'll get my bro to take her. That is, if those two are still talking."
Clare grinned, "Man, those two were so made for each other. Same temper, same sense of duty and all that older sibling thing, and both stubborn!"
"Haha I agree. Those two seriously need to get going on their thing."
Clare was about to reply when all of a sudden an all too familiar sight greeted the two Rangers.
"Ahh Rangers! Say hello to your doom!" Choobo guffawed, while surrounded by 15 KelzaKs.
Blake and Clare shifted into their fighting stance, standing back to back. Almost lazily Blake jeered, "Ahh put a sock in it." Clare added, "Can't you think of something more original than that?"
Choobo merely snickered, "That's what you think. You have a surprise coming Rangers! KelzaKs! Attack!!!"
Immediately Blake and Clare leapt into the air to meet the stupid KelzaKs, both shot a leg out in a flying sidekick on a KelzaK each before landing. Ducking under a jab from one KelzaK, Blake spun out of the way and lashed out his foot, catching another in the chest. He blocked two incoming attacks aimed at his head by throwing his arm up, and caught the two KelzaKs' arms before spinning; the action causing the two to slam into each other, sending both crashing to the ground. He followed up by back flipping to avoid another attack aimed at his stomach and upon landing on his feet, he spun his leg, catching the KelzaK in the knee, causing the KelzaK to buckle forward. As it fell, he jumped up and side kicked it as it went flying into the masses. Taking a breather, he nodded while surveying his handiwork, "Not bad."
Meanwhile Clare was holding more than her own against the KelzaKs. She lashed her leg in a sidekick, sending it flying back into two others. As she finished, she saw another swiping at her head and threw her head back. The blade narrowly missed her throat, but instead caught the thong of the necklace slashing through it. Clare's hand flew to her neck, but another KelzaK had taken her by surprise and she fell, but even while on the ground, she fought back. She swung her legs in a windmill, which caught two KelzaKs and tripped both of them, sending them to the ground. Kipping up, she blocked a blow aimed at her midriff by putting her hands down, and simultaneously spun out of the way, slicing a knife hand chop to the neck of another KelzaK. Seeing two KelzaKs coming in a pincer movement, she ran to meet them. She kicked one KelzaK and immediately rebounded upon the other, using her momentum to catch both KelzaKs in the chest. Ducking under a roundhouse, she swept her leg in a moon kick, impacting with the KelzaK's head. As it fell, she helped it to the ground by ax kicking it.
Blake who was still taking down the remaining KelzaKs, looked over to see how Clare was doing. He called, "These KelzaKs are slow learners, aren't they?"
Clare laughed, "No kidding. You'd think they'd have figured out by now that they can't beat us!" She was laughing as she carelessly kicked another KelzaK, but didn't realize that another KelzaK was sneaking up on her.
Blake started to laugh, but then shouted a warning, "Clare! Look out!"
His warning came too late. The KelzaK elbowed Clare in the back. Stunned and out of breath, Clare went down hard, falling on her knees. She then realized that she was staring at the fountain. /Oh shit, no! /
Blake hurled a KelzaK away from him and struggled to reach Clare. However, where there had only been 15 KelzaKs, all of a sudden the number grew. He felt himself being overwhelmed as two KelzaKs clung to his every limb, making it impossible for him to move.
Clare felt herself being bodily lifted up and thrown into the fountain. The cold sting of the water shocked her, making her suck her breath in as she struggled to get away. No such luck. The KelzaKs firmly had her pinned; she felt her arms being restrained as she screamed for Blake.
"Blake!!! Help!"
Blake kicked, punched, whirled, anything to shake the KelzaKs who were clinging to his arms and legs, but to no avail. They were stuck to him harder and firmer than leeches. He was helpless to do anything!
The two young Rangers felt themselves being pulled to their feet and dragged in front of Choobo who was cackling with glee. "Hehe! Told ya would be in for a surprise!"
Blake and Clare looked up at Choobo from their kneeling positions. Derision and scorn shone in their eyes.
Clare glared at Choobo, "You are the ugliest thing ever. God, how do you look at yourself everyday in the mirror!?"
Blake spat out, "You scum! What do you want with us?!"
Choobo jeered, "Who said it was you I wanted? You'll know soon enough! Goodbye Ranger!"
With that parting comment, Choobo and the KelzaKs, who were still restraining Clare, vanished in a flash as the KelzaKs restraining Blake threw him bodily away from them. Instinctively tucking his body in, he rolled once and came to his feet. He screamed out, "NO!" He stumbled forward still disoriented from being thrown, just to see Choobo and the KelzaKs disappear.
He ran to where Clare had been, and falling to his knees, pounded the ground, "Clare! No!!!"
******** Awwww poor Blake. What's going to happen to Clare?
Please review!!!
Author's note: Sorry for the late updates, guys. We had some technical issues. But as always, here is the next chapter!!!
But first, some answers to reviewers:
sk8ergirl483: Ahh good point! That will play into the story later, but for the record, No, Rika has no idea it was Hunter who saved her, and she doesn't know that it almost killed him!
Mysterio: As always, Dustin will be paired up later. But you'll have to wait for it. Hang in there with us.
Shanewestlover: Tori is paired up with someone. Sorry if it isn't obvious enough, we think its Shane. They do seem to have a nice dynamic, yes?
And yes, Cam will have someone too.
And now.we present the next chapter~ Ennnjoy!!!
~~~~~~~~~
"Hey Clare! Wait up." Blake breathed slightly as he as he slowed to a walk next to Clare who was steadily avoided looking anywhere other than straight forward as she made her way through the park not caring where she was going as long as it was away from Ninja Ops and Rika.
"What do you want, Blake? Now is really not a good time for me." Clare replied in a low tone, barely acknowledging Blake.
"Are you alright?" As soon as the words left his lips, he knew it was the wrong thing to say.
Clare jerked her brisk pace to a halt; still glaring forward she turned her head slightly to the side.
Blake put his hands in the air, "Sorry. It was stupid."
Glaring at Blake a little longer, Clare sighed, her shoulders slumping, "No, I'm sorry. It's not your fault. You have nothing to do with this."
Coming closer, Blake reached out and slid an arm around her slim shoulders giving her half a hug. Clare closed her eyes and leaned slightly into him, as he lowered his head a bit he murmured, "It's ok. You and I both know that she's just worried about you. It's that older sibling 'I gotta look out for you, whether you like it or not' thing. They can't help it."
Clare lowered her gaze to the ground smiling slightly, "Yeah I know. Still it's so annoying and-and frustrating!"
"Yeah, Hunter used to do that to me all the time."
Now she cocked her head up and to the side to see his face while arching her brow, "Oh? Well he certainly doesn't seem to be doing it now."
Blake laughed slightly before answering, "He finally got the message through that head of his just before we got our morphers."
The two laughed quietly as Blake let his arm drop and slipped his hands into his pockets; together they walked through the park talking of other things until they came under the shade of a tree.
Blake stopped, with his hands still in his pockets he stood with his head cocked slightly to the side, squinting slightly in the sun's rays that managed to weave its way through the green foliage above; as he watched Clare continue walking a few steps before she realized that he wasn't with her. Clare glanced around to the sides before turning all the way around then seeing him under the tree, she cocked her head to the side, puzzled; unsure of what to do she uncrossed her arms and slipped her own hands into her jacket pockets while leaning on one leg. The two stood apart for a few moments, both studying and waiting for the other to make a move first, Clare sighed and took a few steps forward back to Blake.
"Wha's up? Is something wrong?"
"Naw. Just lookin' at the scenery."
With a small, slightly cocky smile, Clare took a few steps closer, looking up into his eyes, "Oh? And what do you see?"
Studying her dark brown eyes, with an even cockier grin he replied, "Something very, very beautiful."
Clare quickly dropped her gaze to the ground, letting her shoulder-length hair fall around her face, hoping that he wouldn't see the blush furiously coloring her cheeks.
Of course, he noticed and grinned even wider, slowly he pulled his hand out of his pocket and raised it to her chin; gently he pushed her head up until he could see her soft brown eyes.
Gradually, closing his eyes he lowered his head down to her scarcely breathing, he paused, his mouth only a few centimeters from Clare's, then gently he brushed his lips against hers; a feather would have had a harder touch. Clare could feel his breath flow over her mouth; she shivered as a small current of electricity traversed through her body. She could sense him shudder slightly as well, in the back of her mind she realized that the electricity wasn't a feeling but that it was real but she didn't care. She just wanted the moment to last forever. Blake couldn't help but smile as he felt the small but gentle current spark through his body, starting from his lips to the rest, the euphoria caused him to feel like he was flying and the only thing that was preventing him from flying away was the contact of his lips on Clare's and his hand still under her chin.
Finally the two pulled apart, Blake let his hand drop as they broke the connection; both smiled and blushed as they simultaneously dropped their gazes to the ground.
"Whoa." Was the only word the two could think of or say, smiling the two looked up; Clare, seeing his eyes, she blushed and immediately dropped her gaze again while Blake turned his head to the side to look at something else. While Clare's head was still lowered with her eyes closed, he turned his head back to watch her as he quietly laughed. /Man, it felt like my first time all over again.Damn! This was even better!/
Slipping his arms around her shoulders he pulled her to his chest as she leaned into his chest. Quietly, hardly louder than a whisper, he murmured, "I love you."
Clare's eyes flew open as she jerked her head up with shock in her wide eyes, but remained silent.
Blake stumbled over his words, "I - I'm sorry. I didn't mean to."
She slowly blinked, a spark deep within brightened. Gradually a smile came upon her lips, the dimples that he so loved appeared; he longed to reach up and brush the strand of hair from her face, "I love you too."
An intense joy grew in his heart and spread its warmth throughout his body as a grin soon spread across his face, the joy and excitement shining in his eyes as he looked down upon the Asian girl in his arms.
Suddenly he was struck by an idea, "Hey Clare, remember that invite I gave you to the track?"
"Of course, how could I forget? It was the first time we met." /Or rather my soccer ball met your stomach, which I have no doubt was painful./ Clare thought but she kept that to herself not wanting to remind him.
Blake still winced at the memory, still remembering, "Yeah. So do you still wanna try Motocross?"
Clare lifted her head up to look at Blake, "Do us Rangers kick Lothor's butt every time?"
Blake smiled as he looked down into Clare's dark brown eyes, "Alright, then let's go."
"Wait. Now?"
"Course, now's a good of time as any other. Besides, whenever my brother and I are bummed out or pissed about something, we always hit the track."
"Ok, let's catch some air!"
"Right on!"
Both laughed and walked to the bus station, Blake's arm around her shoulders, and on the ride to the track, they never let go of each other's hand.
~~~~~~~~~~ At Storm Chargers
"Yo, why're we stopping here?" Clare turned her head to look back at Blake as they stepped off the bus.
"Watch your step!" Blake's arm shot out grabbing Clare's arm as she stumbled slightly but by then she had already recovered her footing.
"Whoops! Sorry, wasn't watching...thanks." Clare's face turned a light shade of pink; looking down at her arm she noticed that Blake still hadn't let go of her arm, glancing back up she twitched at eyebrow ever so slightly.
Now it was his turn to blush as he let released his grasp, if not reluctantly and brushed his way past her to lead into the sports store. Clare could not help smiling slightly before following; just as he reached out to push the door Clare slipped her hand into his, automatically his hand tightened slightly around hers and together they entered.
"Hey Kel', whaddup?" Blake lifted his other hand in a slight salute while nodding as well.
"Blake? What are you doing here? Today's not your shift." A woman with red hair and a puzzled expression, somewhere around Cam's age stopped in her tracks with a pile of clothing in her arms, as she turned to look at Blake, her presently off duty employee. Then noticing the smaller Asian girl somewhat behind him, gave her a warm smile of welcome. "Hi. I'm Kelly and guess you know Blake already?"
Kelly wondered when she saw the girl blush slightly before looking down and noticed the two holding hands. With a knowing smile she winked and gave an obvious glance at the couple's hands at Blake who blushed as well.
"Uh, yeah, umm. Kell' this is Clare, Clare this is Kelly, she owns Storm Chargers and this is where Dustin, Hunter and I work. Oh and Clare and her sister just moved here.
Clare's cheeks were still slightly pink as she stepped forward, "H-hi. Nice to meet you."
Maneuvering around the clothing, Kelly smiled again as she managed to stick a hand out and shake Clare's hand. "Nice to meet you too. Welcome to my store."
"Here, I'll take them." Blake took a step forward to take the clothes, but Clare beat him to it.
"I'll help."
"No, it's alright." But by then, Clare already had the load in her arms, "Are you sure? They're kind of heavy." Kelly gave her a worried glance.
Clare gave Kelly a small cocky smile, "Don't worry, I can handle it."
Kelly exchanged her glance to Blake, who could only shrug, "What can I say? She can. They go on the racks with the other clothes."
Clare smiled, with a nod she turned to the clothes racks and hung the sweaters up in color-coded order.
Kelly turned back to Blake with a smile, "So, I see you got yourself a girlfriend, good for you." She lightly slapped him on the arm.
Blake grinned as he glanced down at the floor. "Yeah, she's great."
"I can tell, she's seems like a sweet girl." Turning back she waved at Clare who was almost finished and waved back.
"She really is-umm, is there a 'but' I hear?"
"Yes actually. Isn't she a little too young for you?"
Blake opened his mouth to deny it when...
"Hehe, I'm really seventeen. But don't worry, I get that a lot."
Both Blake and Kelly jumped when they heard Clare's voice, spinning around they could see Clare standing behind them with a cheeky grin and her hands folded in the manner of the innocent.
Taking advantage of his boss's surprise, Blake asked, "Hey, Kell'? Uh, we're planning on hitting the track but we need some gear for Clare. Could we sort of borrow a set? Just for today."
"Well..."
"Cummon Kel', just for today. I promise to have it clean before we give it back, 'k?"
Kelly consented, "Alright, alright. Just for today, and it had better be clean, I don't want even a speck of dust on it when I get it back!"
"Thanks a lot Kel' and don't worry." Turning to Clare he gestured with his head towards the back with Motocross gear hanging on metal racks, "Cummon, we need to get you some padding."
"Wait a sec, you two."
Both teens jerked to a stop in their tracks and turned back to face Blake's boss who came over and put an arm around Clare's shoulders. "Sorry Blake, but when it comes to material to be worn, leave it to the pros. You're staying right there." Kelly winked at Blake again and the two walked off to get the gear and clothing, leaving Blake behind, scratching the back of his head, /Females, I'll never fully understand them./
Kelly grabbed some gloves, boots, shirt, pants, the smallest chest guard in her store, and a helmet and goggles.
Bringing them to the backroom, which was also used as her office, now presently used as a changing room she slipped them unto her desk for Clare to change into.
"Here, try these on. If you need help just knock, I'll be right outside."
"Thank you, I really appreciate it."
"Not a prob." With a smile, Kelly pulled her head out of the doorway.
Clare Ninja Stripped her civilian clothing, slipped on the pants and boots and pulled the shirt on over her head. They were just the right fit; now she picked up the light armor/padding and held it out in front of her, confused. She pulled it on and looked in the mirror, /What the heck? Which is the front and back? Guess I'll have to ask Kelly./
Taking a few strides to the door, Clare tapped and opened to let Kelly in. "Um, which is the front? Does it matter?"
Kelly stifled a laugh as she saw the teen wearing the chest guard backwards, "Com'ere. You have it on backwards."
Clare reddened and quickly pulled it off, reversed it, and pulled it back on.
"Ok, now it's time for the helmet. Tell me if it feels snug, if it's loose, I'll have to get you a smaller one."
"No, it feels a'ight. Pass me the goggles please?"
"Here you go." Kelly watched as Clare slipped the goggles over the helmet, "Feel's right?"
"Yeah, it does." Or at least that Kelly thought she heard, seeing the slight puzzlement Clare pulled off the helmet. "Thanks, it feels pretty comfortable. I really appreciate your help."
"You're very welcome, cummon, let's go show Blake how you look."
"Hehe, can't wait to see the look on his face!" Clare and Kelly laughed as they exited.
"Oh wait. One more thing."
"Uh, yeah? I mean, yes?"
"Don't worry about the cleaning thing."
"Wha'd'you mean? I'll clean it, Blake doesn't have to."
"No actually, I suggest that it should be cleaned...that is if you want it in good condition."
"Huh? But it's yours. Wai' wha'?"
Kelly laughed lightly, "It's yours. You keep it."
It took a second for the message to sink in, but when it did, "Oh shoot! YOU MEAN IT'S MINE!?!? THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! THIS IS SO COOL!!!" Clare was practically jumping up and down, a huge grin on her face.
Kelly was cracking up at Clare's excitement, and led her out after Clare calmed down somewhat.
Blake had already changed into his own Motocross clothing and had his padding and helmet hanging on his arm and looked up as Clare stepped out of the backroom with the Motocross clothing and bulky padding on. Stretching out her arms to her sides, Clare spun slowly as Kelly stood next to Blake, her hands in the back pockets of her jeans as she and Blake inspected her handiwork.
"So, what do you think?" Clare asked, still smiling.
Blake raised his eyebrows, furrowing his forehead, while his mouth was turned down in one of his characteristic frown-yet-not-a-frown things of his as he gestured with his hand. "You look great! You look like a factory pro...thanks Kel', I owe you one."
"Not a problem. Anytime. Oh and ah, you can borrow one of the rental bikes, you know where they are right, Blake?"
Blake nodded and clapped his hands, "Thanks again, Kel'. Ok, so let's hit the track! Now it's time t'see if you c'n ride like a pro. See ya." and walked out with a backwards wave, and his own Motocross gear hanging on his arm.
Clare followed him out and waved as well, "Thanks again! Later!"
Kelly waved back as she smiled and turned back to work, laughing again as she ran the scene of Clare's excitement again through her head and Blake's face when he saw his girlfriend.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
At the track
"Oh whoa! These bikes are so cool!" Clare exclaimed as she walked around the set of motorbikes lined up and ready for rent and tryouts. "Hey Blake, which one's yours?
"This one," Blake proudly proclaimed as he sat astride it, its struts sinking in slightly from his weight.
"Cool! Will you show me how to ride?"
"'Course. Here's the throttle..." As Blake explained the parts of the bike, he was amazed at how quickly Clare picked up the works.
"So, these are the struts that'll absorb the shock of when we land after the jumps, right?"
"Yep, you got it." With his head cocked, he stared a little hard at Clare, "Are you sure this is the first time you've ever Motocrossed?"
"Yeah, why? Hold up, I forgot to tell you, Aerie and I mountain bike so the I guess you can say the main difference between a manually-pedaled bike and BMX."
"Ahh, cool. So, you feel you're ready?"
"Ready as I'll ever be."
"Let's go!"
"A'ight! Let's have some fun!"
"See you at the finish line."
"Don't be too sure about that, I just might make you eat my dust!"
"Yeah right!"
Keeping up the friendly banter, the two wheeled their bikes to the starting/finishing line; ready they waited for the signal. Someone lifted the flag into the air, the sound of engines revving could be heard. The flag dropped and the race began.
Blake and Clare were already the first riders in the front of the other riders. Blake turned his helmeted head to look at Clare who was right next to him. /Hmm. Not bad. Actually, she's pretty good if she can keep up with me at this point./ Turning back to the front he saw the first jump coming up, /alright, now we'll see if she'll keep up with me on the jumps. If she pulls up too early, she'll get too much air in the jump and slow herself down. Too late and she won't catch any air at all./
Clare half-stood on her bike as they revved up the hill for the jump, while cracking the throttle a few more notches for more power.
"WOOHOO!!!" Clare couldn't help but yell it. The rush of flying flooded through her body as she pulled up at the right moment and soar through the air while still matching Blake.
Blake heard her yelling and grinned, /Apparently she's loving it./
Now both concentrated on the landing, as the ground seemed to surge up towards them. The two hit the ground far from the rest as both wheels slammed into the dirt.
Turn right-turn left-turn right-power slide, the last turn was very sharp, Blake and Clare were almost parallel to the ground with only their legs sticking out to prevent them from falling and their speed to get them through the turn. Dirt and dust flew from the backend of the bikes, almost blinding the rest of the riders behind the Rangers.
/Alright! Another jump! Here's a surprise for you Blake!/ Clare thought to herself. Up in the air, she locked her feet against the handlebars and threw her head back, her body positioned in a 'bird's nest' and pulled out before landing the bike back on the track.
Blake's eyes widened in shock, /NO WAY! HOW THE HECK DOES A NEWBIE KNOW HOW TO DO THAT?!?!?!?!/
Both Rangers passed the last turn and crossed the finishing line together.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"That was the COOLEST thing! No wonder you love it so much!" Clare couldn't stop gushing about how awesome Motocross had been. The rush of adrenaline and the speed! It was just awesome."
Blake smiled and nodded, "Hehe, that's why I love it so much. When I'm riding, I forget about everything and it's just me, air and the track!"
Clare laughed, "Yeah, it is definitely cool."
The two of them were walking back from the track. Clare had forgotten about much of her earlier fight with her sister and was looking forward to seeing her. Regardless of how angry she had gotten, she couldn't stay mad at her sister for long. Plus, she knew that Aeri was just looking out for her. She also knew that Aeri would get a kick out of Motocross.
"I can't wait to tell Aeri. She's gotta try it!"
Blake laughed, "Yeah, we'll get my bro to take her. That is, if those two are still talking."
Clare grinned, "Man, those two were so made for each other. Same temper, same sense of duty and all that older sibling thing, and both stubborn!"
"Haha I agree. Those two seriously need to get going on their thing."
Clare was about to reply when all of a sudden an all too familiar sight greeted the two Rangers.
"Ahh Rangers! Say hello to your doom!" Choobo guffawed, while surrounded by 15 KelzaKs.
Blake and Clare shifted into their fighting stance, standing back to back. Almost lazily Blake jeered, "Ahh put a sock in it." Clare added, "Can't you think of something more original than that?"
Choobo merely snickered, "That's what you think. You have a surprise coming Rangers! KelzaKs! Attack!!!"
Immediately Blake and Clare leapt into the air to meet the stupid KelzaKs, both shot a leg out in a flying sidekick on a KelzaK each before landing. Ducking under a jab from one KelzaK, Blake spun out of the way and lashed out his foot, catching another in the chest. He blocked two incoming attacks aimed at his head by throwing his arm up, and caught the two KelzaKs' arms before spinning; the action causing the two to slam into each other, sending both crashing to the ground. He followed up by back flipping to avoid another attack aimed at his stomach and upon landing on his feet, he spun his leg, catching the KelzaK in the knee, causing the KelzaK to buckle forward. As it fell, he jumped up and side kicked it as it went flying into the masses. Taking a breather, he nodded while surveying his handiwork, "Not bad."
Meanwhile Clare was holding more than her own against the KelzaKs. She lashed her leg in a sidekick, sending it flying back into two others. As she finished, she saw another swiping at her head and threw her head back. The blade narrowly missed her throat, but instead caught the thong of the necklace slashing through it. Clare's hand flew to her neck, but another KelzaK had taken her by surprise and she fell, but even while on the ground, she fought back. She swung her legs in a windmill, which caught two KelzaKs and tripped both of them, sending them to the ground. Kipping up, she blocked a blow aimed at her midriff by putting her hands down, and simultaneously spun out of the way, slicing a knife hand chop to the neck of another KelzaK. Seeing two KelzaKs coming in a pincer movement, she ran to meet them. She kicked one KelzaK and immediately rebounded upon the other, using her momentum to catch both KelzaKs in the chest. Ducking under a roundhouse, she swept her leg in a moon kick, impacting with the KelzaK's head. As it fell, she helped it to the ground by ax kicking it.
Blake who was still taking down the remaining KelzaKs, looked over to see how Clare was doing. He called, "These KelzaKs are slow learners, aren't they?"
Clare laughed, "No kidding. You'd think they'd have figured out by now that they can't beat us!" She was laughing as she carelessly kicked another KelzaK, but didn't realize that another KelzaK was sneaking up on her.
Blake started to laugh, but then shouted a warning, "Clare! Look out!"
His warning came too late. The KelzaK elbowed Clare in the back. Stunned and out of breath, Clare went down hard, falling on her knees. She then realized that she was staring at the fountain. /Oh shit, no! /
Blake hurled a KelzaK away from him and struggled to reach Clare. However, where there had only been 15 KelzaKs, all of a sudden the number grew. He felt himself being overwhelmed as two KelzaKs clung to his every limb, making it impossible for him to move.
Clare felt herself being bodily lifted up and thrown into the fountain. The cold sting of the water shocked her, making her suck her breath in as she struggled to get away. No such luck. The KelzaKs firmly had her pinned; she felt her arms being restrained as she screamed for Blake.
"Blake!!! Help!"
Blake kicked, punched, whirled, anything to shake the KelzaKs who were clinging to his arms and legs, but to no avail. They were stuck to him harder and firmer than leeches. He was helpless to do anything!
The two young Rangers felt themselves being pulled to their feet and dragged in front of Choobo who was cackling with glee. "Hehe! Told ya would be in for a surprise!"
Blake and Clare looked up at Choobo from their kneeling positions. Derision and scorn shone in their eyes.
Clare glared at Choobo, "You are the ugliest thing ever. God, how do you look at yourself everyday in the mirror!?"
Blake spat out, "You scum! What do you want with us?!"
Choobo jeered, "Who said it was you I wanted? You'll know soon enough! Goodbye Ranger!"
With that parting comment, Choobo and the KelzaKs, who were still restraining Clare, vanished in a flash as the KelzaKs restraining Blake threw him bodily away from them. Instinctively tucking his body in, he rolled once and came to his feet. He screamed out, "NO!" He stumbled forward still disoriented from being thrown, just to see Choobo and the KelzaKs disappear.
He ran to where Clare had been, and falling to his knees, pounded the ground, "Clare! No!!!"
******** Awwww poor Blake. What's going to happen to Clare?
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