I'd Do Anything
By Kuroneko-sama07
A/N: Hello there! ^_~ Sorry it took me a little while to get this chapter up. I've been dealing with alot of crap at home...-_-;; lol But anyways, it's in this chapter that everything starts to heat up! Lol, but no lemon...yet. ^_~ And now I know for sure that this fic is gonna make it to 5 chapters. So after this one, there's only one more. *sniff* It's gonna be so sad to see it end...lol, but seriously, I have gone through this fic really fast! Like, usually, it takes me FOREVER to finish multi-chapter fics. Like "You Don't Have to be Alone"...5 chapters and it took 5 months. LOL But anyways, I want to take this time to reply to some reviews...^^
The one and only, Julia - Hey, finally I found someone who's, like you said, in the same boat as I am! Lol, it's about time! ^^ Ya know, people like us are rare...lol...thanks for reviewing! ^_^
Kendo Bunny - Thanks for reviewing! Glad you like the story so far.^^ But about the whole bands and movie stuff, I totally agree with you, but I kinda had to include the Simple Plan stuff cuz this whole fic was inspired by that CD. ^_^;; lol And I couldn't make up my own movie titles cuz it wouldn't really sound cool if someone said: "Hey, have you seen that new movie 'Walking Through the Woods'?" LOL So I guess we just have to pretend...lol...
babysue - Hey, I used what you said in your review for this chapter's title. ^_^;; lol Hope you don't mind! I just thought what you said was funny.^^ Harry's lonely, man! Gotta have some lovin'. ^^ Thanks for reviewing!
And to everyone else like foolycoolyshippo, Estelle Stafford, Feye Morgan, babysallright, omg, and Jess - Thanks so much for reviewing! I really appreciate it and I'm so glad ya'll like my fic. ^_^ I thought I'd be getting hate reviews for writing this fic, but I'm getting love reviews! Lol, and I'm probably jinxing myself but who cares. ^^;; OK, on with Chapter 4!
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Chapter 4: Getting Rid of Gene and Giving Harry Some Lovin'
(Hmm...looks like the ridiculous titles will never end...*shrugs* oh well)
Two days had passed since the incident between Melfina and Gene. She hadn't returned to Gene yet; she was still staying with Harry and Ron. However, she knew she couldn't avoid the inevitable. She had to go back to Gene sometime. She just wished that it was later rather than sooner.
***
As they walked down the busy sidewalks of downtown Cenntinal III, Harry gently took Melfina's hand in his. A little while ago, he would have expected her to shyly pull her hand away, but not anymore. Ever since that one night, Harry noticed that Melfina was acting differently around him. She wasn't pulling away from him or being all shy around him. Harry liked this new transformation. He liked her being so open with him.
Aside from the noisy stores that lined the streets and the constant sound of chatter, Harry and Melfina walked in silence. They were just out running a few errands for Ron, but since they had already finished that up, they decided to head on over to a nearby cafe. Melfina had suggested it because it was a place she visited regularly just to relax and have a nice cup of coffee.
Harry loved watching Melfina. He loved watching her walk. He loved watching her point out expensive jewelry in a store window and exclaim how beautiful it all was. He loved hearing her voice. He loved feeling her hand in his. He loved it all. He really was becoming more attracted to her, even though he didn't think it was possible for him to be even more attracted to her. He loved that feeling, but at the same time, he wished he didn't feel that way. He didn't think Melfina would return those feelings. And sure, he knew that she'd be there. Even if she did go back to Gene, she wouldn't forget about him. He knew that and loved knowing that. But he still couldn't help but to wish for more.
As they contined to walk, unbeknownst to Melfina, Harry was completely lost in everything about her. But when she stopped and her hand tensed around his, he definitely noticed it.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
Melfina's eyes searched the crowds of people, but she couldn't seem to find what she was looking for. "I...thought I saw someone," she said.
"Who?"
"Uh...Gene. That's why I kinda freaked out," she said.
Harry looked around, but didn't see Gene anywhere. "I don't see him, but I do see that red-headed guy over there. He looks a little like Gene, but it's not him."
"Yeah, you're right," she said quietly. "I guess I was just mistaken. Harry...may we go back now? Back to your place?"
"Uh, yeah, sure...but what about the cafe? I thought you wanted to go," he said.
"I changed my mind. I'd just like to go back now...if that's okay," she said.
"Yeah, it's okay," Harry said with a small smile. "Whatever you want, Melfina."
Melfina returned his warm smile. Then, since they were on the other side of town, Harry quickly flagged down a taxi and got themselves a ride home.
The taxi ride was quiet...neither of them knew what to say. Harry knew Melfina was worried about having to see Gene again. He just wished there was a way for her to just forget about Gene and stay with him forever. But Harry knew that wouldn't happen. He knew that she had to go talk to Gene. She couldn't just forget about it...because you don't forget about things like that so easily.
Melfina knew that Harry knew what she was thinking about. But she didn't know what his thoughts were. She wondered if he was angry that she was thinking about Gene. But then, she also wondered if he was concerned for her. She wanted to think so because his hand still held hers, gentle but tight.
When they arrived back at the apartment building, Melfina immediately entered Harry's room. She told him she was just going to fix her hair, but he knew better. He knew that she just wanted to be alone to think about her current situation, and he understood that. He just wished she would talk to him about it. Maybe she didn't realize that he wanted to help.
He put up the items they bought for Ron that day, and when he finished, Melfina was still in his room. Not wanting to impose, but still wanting to talk with her, he softly knocked on the closed door.
"Melfina? May I come in?" He felt kind of strange asking to enter his own bedroom, but he didn't want to invade Melfina's privacy.
"Of course, Harry," came her voice from the other side of the door. She sounded quiet and almost like she was trying to sound strong but was having a hard time at it.
He opened the door, walked in, and quietly shut it behind him. Melfina was standing at his desk with her back to him. She never turned around to face him, and Harry knew she was upset. He knew she didn't want him to see her tears again.
He slowly walked over to her, not saying a word. He carefully slipped his arms around her waist and held her close to him. He felt her tense up a bit, but she soon became calm again. He gently nuzzled her neck like he had done once before when she was sad.
"Melfina...," he whispered. He glanced up at her and could see the tears in her eyes.
She placed her hands on his and a small, soft laugh escaped her lips. "This feels so nice...I wish it could always be this way."
"It can, Melfina," Harry said in a hushed tone. "If you stay with me, it will always be this way."
Melfina was silent; she wanted to believe him, but thoughts from before still surfaced in her mind. She had to talk to Gene. She didn't want to stay with him again; she actually did want to stay with Harry, but she couldn't move in with Harry and Ron just like that out of the blue...could she?
Harry could feel that Melfina was on the verge of actually accepting his offer, but he also could feel that she was still concerned. He quickly removed his hands from around her waist, but their hands reunited again as he pulled her over to his bed. They sat down beside each other and leaned against the headboard.
"Talk to me, Melfina," Harry said as he entwined his fingers with hers. "Don't you trust me enough to tell me what's on your mind?"
"Well, yeah, I guess so. It's just...hard," she said.
"Look, Melfina, I know you need to talk to Gene. I understand that. But can't you just come back and stay with me?"
"I...I don't know, Harry...I feel so rude. Like I'm barging in on you and Ron," she replied.
"You're not barging in at all! I love having you here and Ron enjoys your company, too, especially your cooking," he assured her with a smile.
She smiled back at him. "I know, but...still. I don't want to be a burden."
"A burden? You're not a burden; in fact, you're great help to us. I mean, let's face it, Ron and I aren't the cleanest people, so it's nice to have someone around to help us out with the dishes and clothes and the like. The apartment's looked real nice the past couple of days," he said with that same smile but then added, "But more importantly, and I speak for both Ron and myself when I say this,...we really enjoy having you around, Melfina."
Melfina couldn't help but smile at hearing all of that. She really wanted to believe everything Harry said and stay with him. Everything sounded so perfect. She really felt like she could have a good life staying with Harry, but she still wasn't sure. She didn't know if she was willing to just give up everything so fast. Her friends, her home, her daily routine, her memories, Gene...she didn't know if she really wanted to step out of her comfort zone even if it meant being able to find something new and better.
And then there was Harry's temper...he was known for lashing out unexpectedly at times. That did scare Melfina. She knew that he gets angry very easily, and when he does, it's almost like someone else takes over.
As if reading her thoughts, Harry said, "Melfina...you do trust me, don't you? You know I won't hurt you, right?"
She was so surprised that he asked that when she was just thinking about it, so it took her a few seconds to regain her composure. She nodded in response to his questions, but then replied, "I believe you, Harry. I know you don't want to hurt me, but I've noticed that sometimes when you get angry, it's almost like you can't control what you do. You get this look in your eyes...it scares me."
Harry hated hearing that he sometimes frightened Melfina. But he knew that he does lose control when he's angry; it's just something he's always had a problem with.
He reached his hand up to her face and gently caressed her cheek. "I'm sorry, Melfina. I know how I am, but you're the last person I want to hurt. If I ever hurt you in any way, in the end, I'd be the one with the most pain. I can't stand the thought of losing you," he said speaking in hushed tones once again.
"Harry...if I do stay with you, what does that mean for us? Will things be...different?" she asked. She felt very awkward asking those questions, but she did need to know.
"Things will be whatever you want them to be. Whatever relationship you want is fine with me. Although, I hope you chose the one of lovers," he said jokingly but with a sly grin.
Melfina giggled. "Well, I don't know about that..."
"If you don't want me to do anything, like kiss you, hug you, hold your hands, then that's fine. It's okay if you just want us to be friends," he said.
"Okay, but...," Melfina said as she looked down at her hands in her lap. She noticed they were making nervous gestures, so she quickly shoved them between her knees so Harry wouldn't notice. "If you ever want to do those things, then...I don't mind."
She felt deep blush spread across her cheeks as she said that. Actually, she didn't even know why she said that. Did she want him to do those things to her? She couldn't find an answer. A part of her was saying no, she had just come out of a relationship and it was too soon to be starting a new one. But then there was another part...that part was saying that she did want it. It was saying that she wanted Harry and all to herself, just like how he felt about her. She couldn't believe it...was she really falling for Harry? She knew she cared about him, but like this?
Snapping herself out of her thoughts, she noticed that subconsciously, she was slowly moving closer to him. She also noticed that he was doing the same.
Finally, when their faces were barely inches apart, Harry whispered, "Is it alright if I...kiss you?"
A bright smile formed on Melfina's face. "You don't have to ask permission."
Harry loved the sound of that. He gently placed his hand underneath her chin and lifted her head up so their eyes could meet. He smiled, then leaned in and their lips met in a tender kiss. After a few seconds, Harry reluctantly pulled away, but when he looked at Melfina, something told him that she wouldn't mind if he continued.
He pressed his lips against hers once more, but this time he put more force and passion into it. He felt her lips open just slightly, and he thought that meant she was allowing him to slip his tongue inside. However, he must have thought wrong because when he did, Melfina abruptly broke their kiss. She wasn't mad, though; Harry saw that she was wearing a small smile.
He rested his forehead against hers and placed his hands on the sides of her face. He smiled back at her as he gently rubbed his thumbs across her cheeks.
"I'm sorry," he whispered.
"It's okay," she whispered back.
They were both silent for several seconds, but neither of them moved. But finally, Harry spoke up.
"Melfina," he said quietly, "please don't leave me. Don't leave me for Gene again. It hurt enough the first time."
Melfina was silent, but then she said, "You really don't mind if I stay here with you?"
"I don't mind at all. I want you to."
"So...what about Gene? When should I go talk to him?" Melfina asked.
Harry pulled away from her and leaned back against the headboard again. "I think...you should go right now."
"What? Right now?"
"Yeah! Right now!" Harry exclaimed. "Just go, get it over with, and come back."
"I don't know...right now? I haven't even thought about what I was going to say."
"You don't have to think about anything. Just go there and tell him how you feel and what you're gonna do. Then, pack up, say good-bye, and get back over here. I mean, we're talking 10 minutes--tops!" Harry said jokingly, but sort of being serious at the same time.
Melfina giggled at hearing that. She loved how he made it sound so simple. But she believed him. She stood up and walked over to the mirror. As she smoothed out a few wrinkles in her clothes, a thought hit her.
"Harry, wait a minute! I just thought of something! If I stay here, where am I going to sleep? I don't want to kick you out of your bed anymore," she said.
"Hmm...well, you're right. I don't really want to sleep on the couch anymore...but I don't want to make you sleep on the couch either, so maybe..." He grinned teasingly as he made a gesture to his double bed.
"As you long as you don't try anything funny," Melfina said with a small laugh. "So...I'm going to go talk to Gene."
"Yes, you do that," Harry said with a smile. "And come right back. I'll be waiting for you."
Melfina returned the smile and said as she opened the door to let herself out, "Well, I'll see you in...10 minutes?"
"Yep, 10 minutes," he said jokingly and then added, "Tops, remember."
"Right," she said with a laugh. "See you later." And with that, she left.
***
Melfina slowly neared the place she used to call home. She walked to the door, but hesitated to knock. She had never felt like that with Gene before; she was never nervous when it came to him. But this time...it was a totally different situation.
Finally, she her fist knocked on the door, and she just hoped no one was there or even if they were, she hoped they wouldn't answer the door. Unfortunately for Melfina, after just a few seconds, the door opened and she was standing face to face with Gene.
He eyes grew wide as he saw that Melfina was standing on his doorstep. "...Melfina?"
She forced a small smile onto her face to either show that she wasn't there to yell at him or to hide the fact that she was extremely nervous and felt like her heart was stuck in her throat. "Um...hi, Gene. May I...come in? I'd just like to talk with you, if that's okay."
The wait for him to respond seemed like forever to Melfina. She thought that he would just reject her and slam the door in her face, but to her surprise, he let her inside.
She walked inside and looked around at the familiar surroundings. It felt like it had been forever since she had been there, but everything was just as it was when she left. She took a seat on the couch, and Gene walked into the kitchen.
"Where's everyone else?" Melfina asked.
"I don't know. They're all out doing something, even Jim," he replied, but then asked, "Do you want anything to drink?"
"No, thanks," she answered. She waited there and listened as Gene poured himself a drink. Then, he walked back into the living room and sat down on the loveseat across from her.
"So...I haven't seen you in a while," he said casually. Melfina wondered why he was beating around the bush; he knew why she was there. But since he wouldn't bring up the conversation, she decided she would. She wasn't going to waste time waiting for him.
"Gene...you know why I'm here," she said.
There was a long pause of silence. Melfina tried to look Gene in the eyes but he kept avoiding her stare. Finally, he spoke.
"Yeah, I know," he said, and then he sighed deeply. The sigh was either out of exasperation or aggravation--Melfina couldn't really tell. "So where have you been staying this whole time?"
Melfina eyed him suspiciously; she wondered why he kept avoiding the subject, but she decided to answer him anyway. "Well...I've been staying at Harry's." She knew that would probably strike a sensitive cord in Gene, but she had to tell him sometime.
"Harry?! You mean, Harry McDougal?!" he exclaimed.
Melfina knew that would be his reaction. "Yeah...it was the only place I knew to go."
"How'd you know to go to his place anyway? I didn't even know he was staying here! Is Ron here, too?"
"Yes, and well, remember that night we watched that movie and I went to go rent the movie? Well, I saw Harry and Ron at the rental store. We talked for a while, and Harry gave me the addresss to their apartment," she said. She was trying to keep her cool, but it was hard because she was so scared that Gene would freak out.
"You mean to tell me that you've just shacked up with two guys in their apartment for the past two days?! And Harry and Ron, no less!"
That remark enraged Melfina. She couldn't believe he just said that. She did not "shack up" with Harry and Ron at their apartment. "Well, it was much better than staying here and watching you come home drunk with strange women!"
Just then, they both became silent. Melfina couldn't believe those words came out of her mouth. She had never spoke like that before. But she knew that was something she had kept hidden inside of her for a while. She had to let it out. But at the same time, she felt bad about it. She felt like she shouldn't have yelled like that at Gene...even though he yells like that at her all the time.
"Gene...I'm sorry," she said quietly.
"No," he replied, "Don't apologize. You didn't do anything wrong...you never did anything wrong."
"Gene..." Melfina whispered. She was unsure of what he was going to say next.
"I'm sorry," he said quietly, and finally, he looked her straight in the eyes. Melfina could see why he was avoiding her eyes this whole time; his eyes were full of sadness and guilt and she could see it all.
"It's okay...I forgive you," she said.
"Are you going to stay with Harry now?" he asked calmly. Melfina was glad that they were speaking in civilized tones, but she could still sense all the emotions they were both feeling.
She paused before answering. "Yes." She hated to tell him that, but she had no choice. That was her decision and she couldn't change her mind now.
"Did you sleep with him?" he asked. His voice was still calm as before, but Melfina was surprised at his question.
"N-No!" she answered, a little embarrased.
Gene chuckled a little at hearing that Melfina was still uneasy on that sort of topic.
"I still...care about you, you know," Gene said quietly. "I think that, no matter what, I always will."
Melfina was silent and just listened to what he had to say.
"I just want you to always know that, okay? Know that I really did care about you. I guess it just wasn't enough to hold you..."
"No, that's not it, Gene. It's just that...I know you care about me. I just don't think you really want a long-term and serious relationship right now. That's all."
"Yeah. Now that I think about it, you're probably right. I really don't want that type of relationship right now...but maybe later I will," he said.
"We can still stay in touch, right? I mean, are we still going to be friends?" Melfina asked.
"Yeah...At first, I thought that I wanted you out of my life forever, but now...I know that I don't ever want to lose you."
Melfina couldn't help but smile. She loved hearing those words. Those words told her that everything would be okay.
"Well, I guess I should get my stuff together," she said as she stood up.
"Yeah, go ahead," he said.
She walked to her room and packed up her clothes and any other items she might need. Then, she walked back in the living room and saw that Gene was still sitting on the couch. When she walked in, he stood up and faced her.
There was a pause, but then Melfina smiled at him and said, "Thank you, Gene. I really needed to hear those words from you today. I'm glad we can still be friends because truthfully, I don't want you to be out of my life either."
A small smile formed on his face as well and he walked her to the door. He placed his hand on the doorknob, but before opening it, he turned to her once again.
"Before you go, there's something I have to tell you," he said.
"What is it?"
"At the Leyline, before I went in to rescue you, I ran into Harry. He was all beat up, but he helped--" Melfina cut him off and finished his sentence for him.
"He helped break through the security system. I know; I met him in cyberspace," she said.
"Yeah, well, he asked me to do him a favor. He wanted me to tell you to sing that song for him one more time. I gave him my word that I'd give you his request. I guess I should have told you before, but I didn't, so I'm telling you now," Gene revealed.
"Thanks for telling me, Gene. I really appreciate it," she said with a warm smile. "Well, I'll see you later, right?"
"Yeah," he said as he opened the door for her.
"Good-bye, Gene," she said as she stepped out.
"Bye, Melfina," he said. He watched her walk off and then he closed the door.
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Well, finally I got past Chapter 4! Now the good chapter is coming next! ^_^ lol It'll probably be out soon, much sooner than this one at least because I'm anxious to start writing it. I want to start writing it. *wink* ^^ lol Well, gotta go! I'm soooo tired right now, so I really need to go to bed. ^^ Remember, Chapter 4 is coming soon! I'll see you there. ^_~
By Kuroneko-sama07
A/N: Hello there! ^_~ Sorry it took me a little while to get this chapter up. I've been dealing with alot of crap at home...-_-;; lol But anyways, it's in this chapter that everything starts to heat up! Lol, but no lemon...yet. ^_~ And now I know for sure that this fic is gonna make it to 5 chapters. So after this one, there's only one more. *sniff* It's gonna be so sad to see it end...lol, but seriously, I have gone through this fic really fast! Like, usually, it takes me FOREVER to finish multi-chapter fics. Like "You Don't Have to be Alone"...5 chapters and it took 5 months. LOL But anyways, I want to take this time to reply to some reviews...^^
The one and only, Julia - Hey, finally I found someone who's, like you said, in the same boat as I am! Lol, it's about time! ^^ Ya know, people like us are rare...lol...thanks for reviewing! ^_^
Kendo Bunny - Thanks for reviewing! Glad you like the story so far.^^ But about the whole bands and movie stuff, I totally agree with you, but I kinda had to include the Simple Plan stuff cuz this whole fic was inspired by that CD. ^_^;; lol And I couldn't make up my own movie titles cuz it wouldn't really sound cool if someone said: "Hey, have you seen that new movie 'Walking Through the Woods'?" LOL So I guess we just have to pretend...lol...
babysue - Hey, I used what you said in your review for this chapter's title. ^_^;; lol Hope you don't mind! I just thought what you said was funny.^^ Harry's lonely, man! Gotta have some lovin'. ^^ Thanks for reviewing!
And to everyone else like foolycoolyshippo, Estelle Stafford, Feye Morgan, babysallright, omg, and Jess - Thanks so much for reviewing! I really appreciate it and I'm so glad ya'll like my fic. ^_^ I thought I'd be getting hate reviews for writing this fic, but I'm getting love reviews! Lol, and I'm probably jinxing myself but who cares. ^^;; OK, on with Chapter 4!
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Chapter 4: Getting Rid of Gene and Giving Harry Some Lovin'
(Hmm...looks like the ridiculous titles will never end...*shrugs* oh well)
Two days had passed since the incident between Melfina and Gene. She hadn't returned to Gene yet; she was still staying with Harry and Ron. However, she knew she couldn't avoid the inevitable. She had to go back to Gene sometime. She just wished that it was later rather than sooner.
***
As they walked down the busy sidewalks of downtown Cenntinal III, Harry gently took Melfina's hand in his. A little while ago, he would have expected her to shyly pull her hand away, but not anymore. Ever since that one night, Harry noticed that Melfina was acting differently around him. She wasn't pulling away from him or being all shy around him. Harry liked this new transformation. He liked her being so open with him.
Aside from the noisy stores that lined the streets and the constant sound of chatter, Harry and Melfina walked in silence. They were just out running a few errands for Ron, but since they had already finished that up, they decided to head on over to a nearby cafe. Melfina had suggested it because it was a place she visited regularly just to relax and have a nice cup of coffee.
Harry loved watching Melfina. He loved watching her walk. He loved watching her point out expensive jewelry in a store window and exclaim how beautiful it all was. He loved hearing her voice. He loved feeling her hand in his. He loved it all. He really was becoming more attracted to her, even though he didn't think it was possible for him to be even more attracted to her. He loved that feeling, but at the same time, he wished he didn't feel that way. He didn't think Melfina would return those feelings. And sure, he knew that she'd be there. Even if she did go back to Gene, she wouldn't forget about him. He knew that and loved knowing that. But he still couldn't help but to wish for more.
As they contined to walk, unbeknownst to Melfina, Harry was completely lost in everything about her. But when she stopped and her hand tensed around his, he definitely noticed it.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
Melfina's eyes searched the crowds of people, but she couldn't seem to find what she was looking for. "I...thought I saw someone," she said.
"Who?"
"Uh...Gene. That's why I kinda freaked out," she said.
Harry looked around, but didn't see Gene anywhere. "I don't see him, but I do see that red-headed guy over there. He looks a little like Gene, but it's not him."
"Yeah, you're right," she said quietly. "I guess I was just mistaken. Harry...may we go back now? Back to your place?"
"Uh, yeah, sure...but what about the cafe? I thought you wanted to go," he said.
"I changed my mind. I'd just like to go back now...if that's okay," she said.
"Yeah, it's okay," Harry said with a small smile. "Whatever you want, Melfina."
Melfina returned his warm smile. Then, since they were on the other side of town, Harry quickly flagged down a taxi and got themselves a ride home.
The taxi ride was quiet...neither of them knew what to say. Harry knew Melfina was worried about having to see Gene again. He just wished there was a way for her to just forget about Gene and stay with him forever. But Harry knew that wouldn't happen. He knew that she had to go talk to Gene. She couldn't just forget about it...because you don't forget about things like that so easily.
Melfina knew that Harry knew what she was thinking about. But she didn't know what his thoughts were. She wondered if he was angry that she was thinking about Gene. But then, she also wondered if he was concerned for her. She wanted to think so because his hand still held hers, gentle but tight.
When they arrived back at the apartment building, Melfina immediately entered Harry's room. She told him she was just going to fix her hair, but he knew better. He knew that she just wanted to be alone to think about her current situation, and he understood that. He just wished she would talk to him about it. Maybe she didn't realize that he wanted to help.
He put up the items they bought for Ron that day, and when he finished, Melfina was still in his room. Not wanting to impose, but still wanting to talk with her, he softly knocked on the closed door.
"Melfina? May I come in?" He felt kind of strange asking to enter his own bedroom, but he didn't want to invade Melfina's privacy.
"Of course, Harry," came her voice from the other side of the door. She sounded quiet and almost like she was trying to sound strong but was having a hard time at it.
He opened the door, walked in, and quietly shut it behind him. Melfina was standing at his desk with her back to him. She never turned around to face him, and Harry knew she was upset. He knew she didn't want him to see her tears again.
He slowly walked over to her, not saying a word. He carefully slipped his arms around her waist and held her close to him. He felt her tense up a bit, but she soon became calm again. He gently nuzzled her neck like he had done once before when she was sad.
"Melfina...," he whispered. He glanced up at her and could see the tears in her eyes.
She placed her hands on his and a small, soft laugh escaped her lips. "This feels so nice...I wish it could always be this way."
"It can, Melfina," Harry said in a hushed tone. "If you stay with me, it will always be this way."
Melfina was silent; she wanted to believe him, but thoughts from before still surfaced in her mind. She had to talk to Gene. She didn't want to stay with him again; she actually did want to stay with Harry, but she couldn't move in with Harry and Ron just like that out of the blue...could she?
Harry could feel that Melfina was on the verge of actually accepting his offer, but he also could feel that she was still concerned. He quickly removed his hands from around her waist, but their hands reunited again as he pulled her over to his bed. They sat down beside each other and leaned against the headboard.
"Talk to me, Melfina," Harry said as he entwined his fingers with hers. "Don't you trust me enough to tell me what's on your mind?"
"Well, yeah, I guess so. It's just...hard," she said.
"Look, Melfina, I know you need to talk to Gene. I understand that. But can't you just come back and stay with me?"
"I...I don't know, Harry...I feel so rude. Like I'm barging in on you and Ron," she replied.
"You're not barging in at all! I love having you here and Ron enjoys your company, too, especially your cooking," he assured her with a smile.
She smiled back at him. "I know, but...still. I don't want to be a burden."
"A burden? You're not a burden; in fact, you're great help to us. I mean, let's face it, Ron and I aren't the cleanest people, so it's nice to have someone around to help us out with the dishes and clothes and the like. The apartment's looked real nice the past couple of days," he said with that same smile but then added, "But more importantly, and I speak for both Ron and myself when I say this,...we really enjoy having you around, Melfina."
Melfina couldn't help but smile at hearing all of that. She really wanted to believe everything Harry said and stay with him. Everything sounded so perfect. She really felt like she could have a good life staying with Harry, but she still wasn't sure. She didn't know if she was willing to just give up everything so fast. Her friends, her home, her daily routine, her memories, Gene...she didn't know if she really wanted to step out of her comfort zone even if it meant being able to find something new and better.
And then there was Harry's temper...he was known for lashing out unexpectedly at times. That did scare Melfina. She knew that he gets angry very easily, and when he does, it's almost like someone else takes over.
As if reading her thoughts, Harry said, "Melfina...you do trust me, don't you? You know I won't hurt you, right?"
She was so surprised that he asked that when she was just thinking about it, so it took her a few seconds to regain her composure. She nodded in response to his questions, but then replied, "I believe you, Harry. I know you don't want to hurt me, but I've noticed that sometimes when you get angry, it's almost like you can't control what you do. You get this look in your eyes...it scares me."
Harry hated hearing that he sometimes frightened Melfina. But he knew that he does lose control when he's angry; it's just something he's always had a problem with.
He reached his hand up to her face and gently caressed her cheek. "I'm sorry, Melfina. I know how I am, but you're the last person I want to hurt. If I ever hurt you in any way, in the end, I'd be the one with the most pain. I can't stand the thought of losing you," he said speaking in hushed tones once again.
"Harry...if I do stay with you, what does that mean for us? Will things be...different?" she asked. She felt very awkward asking those questions, but she did need to know.
"Things will be whatever you want them to be. Whatever relationship you want is fine with me. Although, I hope you chose the one of lovers," he said jokingly but with a sly grin.
Melfina giggled. "Well, I don't know about that..."
"If you don't want me to do anything, like kiss you, hug you, hold your hands, then that's fine. It's okay if you just want us to be friends," he said.
"Okay, but...," Melfina said as she looked down at her hands in her lap. She noticed they were making nervous gestures, so she quickly shoved them between her knees so Harry wouldn't notice. "If you ever want to do those things, then...I don't mind."
She felt deep blush spread across her cheeks as she said that. Actually, she didn't even know why she said that. Did she want him to do those things to her? She couldn't find an answer. A part of her was saying no, she had just come out of a relationship and it was too soon to be starting a new one. But then there was another part...that part was saying that she did want it. It was saying that she wanted Harry and all to herself, just like how he felt about her. She couldn't believe it...was she really falling for Harry? She knew she cared about him, but like this?
Snapping herself out of her thoughts, she noticed that subconsciously, she was slowly moving closer to him. She also noticed that he was doing the same.
Finally, when their faces were barely inches apart, Harry whispered, "Is it alright if I...kiss you?"
A bright smile formed on Melfina's face. "You don't have to ask permission."
Harry loved the sound of that. He gently placed his hand underneath her chin and lifted her head up so their eyes could meet. He smiled, then leaned in and their lips met in a tender kiss. After a few seconds, Harry reluctantly pulled away, but when he looked at Melfina, something told him that she wouldn't mind if he continued.
He pressed his lips against hers once more, but this time he put more force and passion into it. He felt her lips open just slightly, and he thought that meant she was allowing him to slip his tongue inside. However, he must have thought wrong because when he did, Melfina abruptly broke their kiss. She wasn't mad, though; Harry saw that she was wearing a small smile.
He rested his forehead against hers and placed his hands on the sides of her face. He smiled back at her as he gently rubbed his thumbs across her cheeks.
"I'm sorry," he whispered.
"It's okay," she whispered back.
They were both silent for several seconds, but neither of them moved. But finally, Harry spoke up.
"Melfina," he said quietly, "please don't leave me. Don't leave me for Gene again. It hurt enough the first time."
Melfina was silent, but then she said, "You really don't mind if I stay here with you?"
"I don't mind at all. I want you to."
"So...what about Gene? When should I go talk to him?" Melfina asked.
Harry pulled away from her and leaned back against the headboard again. "I think...you should go right now."
"What? Right now?"
"Yeah! Right now!" Harry exclaimed. "Just go, get it over with, and come back."
"I don't know...right now? I haven't even thought about what I was going to say."
"You don't have to think about anything. Just go there and tell him how you feel and what you're gonna do. Then, pack up, say good-bye, and get back over here. I mean, we're talking 10 minutes--tops!" Harry said jokingly, but sort of being serious at the same time.
Melfina giggled at hearing that. She loved how he made it sound so simple. But she believed him. She stood up and walked over to the mirror. As she smoothed out a few wrinkles in her clothes, a thought hit her.
"Harry, wait a minute! I just thought of something! If I stay here, where am I going to sleep? I don't want to kick you out of your bed anymore," she said.
"Hmm...well, you're right. I don't really want to sleep on the couch anymore...but I don't want to make you sleep on the couch either, so maybe..." He grinned teasingly as he made a gesture to his double bed.
"As you long as you don't try anything funny," Melfina said with a small laugh. "So...I'm going to go talk to Gene."
"Yes, you do that," Harry said with a smile. "And come right back. I'll be waiting for you."
Melfina returned the smile and said as she opened the door to let herself out, "Well, I'll see you in...10 minutes?"
"Yep, 10 minutes," he said jokingly and then added, "Tops, remember."
"Right," she said with a laugh. "See you later." And with that, she left.
***
Melfina slowly neared the place she used to call home. She walked to the door, but hesitated to knock. She had never felt like that with Gene before; she was never nervous when it came to him. But this time...it was a totally different situation.
Finally, she her fist knocked on the door, and she just hoped no one was there or even if they were, she hoped they wouldn't answer the door. Unfortunately for Melfina, after just a few seconds, the door opened and she was standing face to face with Gene.
He eyes grew wide as he saw that Melfina was standing on his doorstep. "...Melfina?"
She forced a small smile onto her face to either show that she wasn't there to yell at him or to hide the fact that she was extremely nervous and felt like her heart was stuck in her throat. "Um...hi, Gene. May I...come in? I'd just like to talk with you, if that's okay."
The wait for him to respond seemed like forever to Melfina. She thought that he would just reject her and slam the door in her face, but to her surprise, he let her inside.
She walked inside and looked around at the familiar surroundings. It felt like it had been forever since she had been there, but everything was just as it was when she left. She took a seat on the couch, and Gene walked into the kitchen.
"Where's everyone else?" Melfina asked.
"I don't know. They're all out doing something, even Jim," he replied, but then asked, "Do you want anything to drink?"
"No, thanks," she answered. She waited there and listened as Gene poured himself a drink. Then, he walked back into the living room and sat down on the loveseat across from her.
"So...I haven't seen you in a while," he said casually. Melfina wondered why he was beating around the bush; he knew why she was there. But since he wouldn't bring up the conversation, she decided she would. She wasn't going to waste time waiting for him.
"Gene...you know why I'm here," she said.
There was a long pause of silence. Melfina tried to look Gene in the eyes but he kept avoiding her stare. Finally, he spoke.
"Yeah, I know," he said, and then he sighed deeply. The sigh was either out of exasperation or aggravation--Melfina couldn't really tell. "So where have you been staying this whole time?"
Melfina eyed him suspiciously; she wondered why he kept avoiding the subject, but she decided to answer him anyway. "Well...I've been staying at Harry's." She knew that would probably strike a sensitive cord in Gene, but she had to tell him sometime.
"Harry?! You mean, Harry McDougal?!" he exclaimed.
Melfina knew that would be his reaction. "Yeah...it was the only place I knew to go."
"How'd you know to go to his place anyway? I didn't even know he was staying here! Is Ron here, too?"
"Yes, and well, remember that night we watched that movie and I went to go rent the movie? Well, I saw Harry and Ron at the rental store. We talked for a while, and Harry gave me the addresss to their apartment," she said. She was trying to keep her cool, but it was hard because she was so scared that Gene would freak out.
"You mean to tell me that you've just shacked up with two guys in their apartment for the past two days?! And Harry and Ron, no less!"
That remark enraged Melfina. She couldn't believe he just said that. She did not "shack up" with Harry and Ron at their apartment. "Well, it was much better than staying here and watching you come home drunk with strange women!"
Just then, they both became silent. Melfina couldn't believe those words came out of her mouth. She had never spoke like that before. But she knew that was something she had kept hidden inside of her for a while. She had to let it out. But at the same time, she felt bad about it. She felt like she shouldn't have yelled like that at Gene...even though he yells like that at her all the time.
"Gene...I'm sorry," she said quietly.
"No," he replied, "Don't apologize. You didn't do anything wrong...you never did anything wrong."
"Gene..." Melfina whispered. She was unsure of what he was going to say next.
"I'm sorry," he said quietly, and finally, he looked her straight in the eyes. Melfina could see why he was avoiding her eyes this whole time; his eyes were full of sadness and guilt and she could see it all.
"It's okay...I forgive you," she said.
"Are you going to stay with Harry now?" he asked calmly. Melfina was glad that they were speaking in civilized tones, but she could still sense all the emotions they were both feeling.
She paused before answering. "Yes." She hated to tell him that, but she had no choice. That was her decision and she couldn't change her mind now.
"Did you sleep with him?" he asked. His voice was still calm as before, but Melfina was surprised at his question.
"N-No!" she answered, a little embarrased.
Gene chuckled a little at hearing that Melfina was still uneasy on that sort of topic.
"I still...care about you, you know," Gene said quietly. "I think that, no matter what, I always will."
Melfina was silent and just listened to what he had to say.
"I just want you to always know that, okay? Know that I really did care about you. I guess it just wasn't enough to hold you..."
"No, that's not it, Gene. It's just that...I know you care about me. I just don't think you really want a long-term and serious relationship right now. That's all."
"Yeah. Now that I think about it, you're probably right. I really don't want that type of relationship right now...but maybe later I will," he said.
"We can still stay in touch, right? I mean, are we still going to be friends?" Melfina asked.
"Yeah...At first, I thought that I wanted you out of my life forever, but now...I know that I don't ever want to lose you."
Melfina couldn't help but smile. She loved hearing those words. Those words told her that everything would be okay.
"Well, I guess I should get my stuff together," she said as she stood up.
"Yeah, go ahead," he said.
She walked to her room and packed up her clothes and any other items she might need. Then, she walked back in the living room and saw that Gene was still sitting on the couch. When she walked in, he stood up and faced her.
There was a pause, but then Melfina smiled at him and said, "Thank you, Gene. I really needed to hear those words from you today. I'm glad we can still be friends because truthfully, I don't want you to be out of my life either."
A small smile formed on his face as well and he walked her to the door. He placed his hand on the doorknob, but before opening it, he turned to her once again.
"Before you go, there's something I have to tell you," he said.
"What is it?"
"At the Leyline, before I went in to rescue you, I ran into Harry. He was all beat up, but he helped--" Melfina cut him off and finished his sentence for him.
"He helped break through the security system. I know; I met him in cyberspace," she said.
"Yeah, well, he asked me to do him a favor. He wanted me to tell you to sing that song for him one more time. I gave him my word that I'd give you his request. I guess I should have told you before, but I didn't, so I'm telling you now," Gene revealed.
"Thanks for telling me, Gene. I really appreciate it," she said with a warm smile. "Well, I'll see you later, right?"
"Yeah," he said as he opened the door for her.
"Good-bye, Gene," she said as she stepped out.
"Bye, Melfina," he said. He watched her walk off and then he closed the door.
***********************************************************************
Well, finally I got past Chapter 4! Now the good chapter is coming next! ^_^ lol It'll probably be out soon, much sooner than this one at least because I'm anxious to start writing it. I want to start writing it. *wink* ^^ lol Well, gotta go! I'm soooo tired right now, so I really need to go to bed. ^^ Remember, Chapter 4 is coming soon! I'll see you there. ^_~
