None of the Characters belong to me. © Square Soft
Welcome to all of my newest readers. Just to let you all know, my reviewers, I wouldn't have continued this story without your constant support. It's a hard subject to talk about let alone write about. I'm glad Innocence Corrupted is making it's way across FanFiction.net. I'm glad you guys keep coming back for more of the drama and are continuously pleased with each chapter. And you guys just have to be the coolest people to put up with my constant typos. By the way, this is the first and probably not the last time, another characters, other then Sora's and Riku's, point of view will be present in the story.
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Anyway onto the story.
Chapter 12
I tried to pretend I was sleeping when Sora finally awoke that morning. In truth I was just resting with my eyes closed. I hadn't been asleep the entire night. The dull and aching sensation in my wrist wouldn't let me. And my mind was racing too much to allow my brain to shut down for awhile. When I felt Sora stirring I went rigid. I was afraid for some reason. The events from last night still fresh in my mind.
I'd hit him and then we'd had sex.
Doesn't that sound wrong to you?
I'm glad I didn't sleep. I know I would've had nightmares.
Sora was awakening really slowly. I guess he'd exhausted himself last night. Sex had that kind of affect. I was still kind of tingly myself.
That could be from extensive blood loss too.
The sun was peeking up behind me from the slightly drawn blinds. Sora had finally sat up and was moving around. He seemed stiff too. I know why. I hadn't exactly been gentle with him. I frowned at that. I'd been so lost in ecstasy that I hadn't thought to slow down or be gentle. And it really hadn't help that Sora was airily panting "harder" and "yes" in my ear.
Sigh.
Sora stopped moving. Dear god I hope he's not watching me. I think I sighed too loud.
"Riku." He whispered. I didn't move or stir even the slightest bit. I didn't want him to see me yet.
"...Still sleeping..." He breathed. I know he was talking to himself. But he'd said it out loud.
Finally, after what felt like a few hours, Sora ambled out of bed. He was still groggy. I could tell because he couldn't untangle himself from the blanket. When he winced I almost turned around to check on him. He was is pain.
Damn... I had been to rough.
We'd used no lubricant either...
I'm such a shit... how could I do that to him.
He was heading towards the bathroom. I didn't bother pretending to sleep anymore. He had his back to me. He'd dropped the blanket all together and was limping into the bathroom. I wanted to kick myself. If I could I really would. Really hard.
I'd hurt him...
I heard the shower start up and decided to sit up. My muscles protested loudly and painfully when I did. My lower back was killing me, I'm sure you know why, and I felt kind of dizzy. I had lost more blood then I'd thought. I'd be fine in a few days if I took it easy. I finally glanced at the clock and noted it was 6:30 in morning. I was up to damn early for no reason. I didn't have to work today, or at all anymore cause I wasn't going back to 7th Heaven. Not as long as Aeris was there. I was serious about that part.
Okay... if I needed the money I'd go back... unless Aeris decided to fire me...
Oh well..
I wanted to go into the bathroom and check on Sora. I was also mentally making a blue print of the bathroom, insuring myself I'd cleaned up all the blood. If Sora saw it he'd freak out. If he saw my wrist he'd die. Speaking of my wrist. My bandage was soaked red.
......
I had to go into the bathroom to change it.
I gritted my teeth and made my way there. Sora took long showers. He probably wouldn't even notice me. Unless he was in protective mode. Then he'd hear me before I came in.
"Riku."
Protective mode was in full throttle.
I clenched my jaw and answered.
"Yeah..." My voice sounded really hoarse. Probably from all of that yelling from last night.
"Morning hun." Sora chirped. He sounded really tired. I smiled beside myself. He was trying to hard to make things be normal and comfortable. But his mood was scaring me more then consoling me. Why was he trying so hard to make last night seem like it hadn't happened? I wanted to talk about it... really badly.
"Riku?" Sora said again and peeked out of the shower. I was lingering in the door way, with my bandaged arm outside of his view. He smiled that big toothy grin of his when he saw me but didn't say anything.
"It's early." I finally said after listening to the water run for awhile. It was starting to lull me to sleep. I realized how tired I'd really been and yawned. Then rubbed at my eyes.
"So why are you up?" Sora teased. I was in no way a morning person. Sora was laughing to himself about that too.
"I'm gonna go back to bed." I said but I didnt' leave the bathroom. Instead I tip toed over to the sink and found the first aid kit. I unraveled the soiled bandage around my wrist and hastily, but neatly, wrapped a fresh clean one around it. Sora was oblivious to the whole thing. Good. I'm glad Cloud had opted for navy tented shower curtains instead of clear ones.
I'd made it out of the bathroom in a clean sweep. Sora was just getting out of the shower as I was climbing back into bed. I could barely keep my eyes open now. As soon as my head hit the pillow I was dozing off. Sora came into the room bolting himself dry with a big white towel. He looked so... innocent with his hair all wet and hanging in his face. I smiled again at the picture. Sora was innocent.
"Good shower?" I mumbled drowsily. I blinked really hard to try and make myself stay awake long enough to hear Sora's reply.
"Yeah." He breathed and went to look for pajamas. I could hear the drawers and shifting of clothing for a moment before Sora sat down on the bed. He cringed just slightly and I heard him do it.
"You're sore aren't you...?" I said. I didn't want to make it sound so obvious. Sora would deny it up and down anyway. He glanced at me and I saw how red his cheek was for the first time that morning. I think I chocked on a gasp from that. I was awake now.
"..I'm fine. It's not like we haven't been.... rough during sex before. It's okay." Sora said. I shook my head in disbelief. He sounded like me. When I'd always say I was fine and I really wasn't.
"....we shouldn't have..." I started and Sora turned on me. He was searching my face for an explanation. I hadn't even finished my sentence yet.
"What?" He whispered. I could hear the dread in his voice and I inwardly winced. I really didn't want to cause Sora anymore pain. Physically or mentally. He was looking at me with an odd expression. Like I was acting strangely or something. I was trying to be serious but gentle with him about all of this.
".... The sex. We shouldn't have done that last night. It wasn't the right time."
Sora took a shaky breath and turned away from me to put on his pajama bottoms. He didn't say anything for a few moments and I sighed in frustration. I hadn't it when our talks went like this. Sora either didn't want to talk about it or didn't know what to say. I think it was both this time.
"It was a mistake."
I should not have said it like that. Sora froze.
"I mean..." I sat up and ran my hands through my hair. I'd put myself waist deep in shit by saying that just now. I had to think of a way to fix that right now.
"That's not... what I meant. What I mean is.... after what... after the argument it just didn't... seem right.. You know..." I hoped he understood what I was trying to say.
"... But...." Sora started. I scratched my head out of nervousness and lack of anything better to do while I waited for him to answer.
"But.. I had to show that things were okay... that they would be okay. I don't.. care about what happened before we made love...." He turned to me. There were tears in his eyes. "Okay, Riku. Can we just... forget about what happened before that? Only remember the good part." He was pleading with me.
The good part. Sora had been terrified of me last night. He'd had sex with out of fear. Out of desperation.
That was... like rape...
"....I want to talk about this Sora. About everything."
Sora's head slumped forward and he went silent. I bit my lip because I was at a loss. I didn't really know how to continue this conversation. How do you start talking about something like this.
Hitting your boyfriend.... and then... pretty much raping him...
"You didn't force me Riku." Sora said and finally turned back around. I eyed him in surprise. He'd read my thoughts. He climbed up onto the bed and sat next to me. I could smell soap and water all over him and it made my senses flair. I wanted to grab Sora and hug him so tight he'd pop.
God.. I loved him so much.
This was tearing me up inside.
"I know that's what you're thinking. Yes... it's true you were being a bit... demanding last night. But I initiated it. I did it to show I loved you. I wasn't scared." Sora took my face into his hands and looked me in the eyes.
"Don't even think it. YOU are NOT like HIM!" He leaned in to kiss me then and I kissed back. He didn't know how good it made me feel to hear him say that. God bless Sora and his mind reading abilities.
"..What about me hitting you? I had no reason to do that...." I frowned sadly at him. His eyes were forgiving me in a way so loudly he couldn't have said it better in words.
"I'm sorry." I said again and cradled his cheek in my hand. He shook his head and kissed me again.
"It's okay. Everything is okay." Again he kissed me. I ran my finger tip over his bottom lip and smiled.
Maybe... maybe things were okay...
"Riku..." Sora was eyeing me wildly. His brows had knitted into a harsh frown. I blinked several times out of confusion.
"What is this...?" He said and pulled my hand away from his face. I felt my lungs constrict painfully.
Oh... Fuck...
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(Sora)
-----------
Riku was finally looking like he'd understood that I wasn't mad at him. About anything.
Things were fine. I was willing and determined to make that sink in. I'd force it into my persona if I had to. I'd really just chocked last night off as a bad dream. It was over. It's lingering affects had almost if not completely faded away with the new morning sun. I was going to let it go.
Riku was cradling my cheek, the slightly tender one, with his left hand. I smiled into his eyes which were bright with love and understanding. I was about to kiss him again for the 4th time in a row when I noticed a bandage around his arm. It hadn't been there the night before and I was curious about it. I figured it was just something I'd over looked. A wound from a month ago that wasn't quite healed completely. I thought this... until I saw fresh blood seeping in the white of the bandage.
"What is this...?" I hissed beside myself and yanked away from Riku's caress. I saw panic and confusion cross his face in a split second. I've never seen anyone look so guilty in my entire life. He didn't answer but he tried to roughly pry his hand away from me.
"What happened to your arm Riku?" I demanded him to tell me. In the back of my mind though.. I already knew what it was.
Riku seemed to realize that too.
"Why..?!" I finally cried and grabbed his shoulders. He looked wide eyed at me but his mouth remained shut. I took at harsh shuddery breath.
"What have you done?!" I shook him again and this time gripped his face.
Things were... they were almost okay. We were so close.
"Riku.. answer me!" I sobbed into his shirt. He ran his right hand through my hair before he answered.
"...It.. won't happen again." He said hauntingly. I looked up at him and sniffled.
"How many times have you tried this...?"
Riku closed his eyes and I braced my heart for a his reply. I thought he was going to say 6 or 7 times. Maybe more.
"Once... just last night.." The way he said it made me know it was the truth.
"Why... are things that bad...?"
Riku gave me a frown.
"...Yes and no... I panicked... I was just so fucking mad at myself for last night.... I... It won't happen again okay."
"I don't believe you." I said stiffly. I didn't believe him.
Riku's eyes snapped down to me. He looked slightly stunned for a moment.
"I deserved that... I swear.. I won't try it again..." He gave me a reassuring smile. But in only further disturbed me.
"There are other ways then slitting your wrists to kill yourself, Riku."
I wasn't trying to give him ideas. I was just letting him know if he tried anything else I'd hate him. Forever.
"I panicked.... I chickened out anyway... I couldn't do it." He said and went to lye back down. I frowned and climbed on top of him.
"...Are you okay?" I asked. I was so worried. What if he'd cut deep enough? He could still be in danger of bleeding to death.
"I missed the vein." He stated simply. "You're worrying to much about this." He closed his eyes to go to sleep then.
"I'm tired of worrying." I hissed. Riku opened his eyes. "I'm always the one who has to deal with you when you're hurt. I'm always the one crying and being sad. I'm tired of that. And then you act like.. it's not big deal... making me cry is no big deal to you?"
Riku didn't seem to have an answer for that.
"What if I'd been the one to try and kill myself?" I asked. Riku's mouth gaped open.
"How would that make you feel. Knowing that I'd tried to end my life... because I was so sad over something I'd done to you?"
Riku blinked.
"You'd probably just think I was weak... and that I'd given up... Well that's what I think of you. I thought you were stronger then this Riku!"
I echoed Riku's words to me. The same words he'd uttered during my final battle wiht Ansem. I watched as his face twisted into a guilty frown and he almost threw me off of him. I scrambled to catch up with him as he fled from the room
"Riku....wait!" I called and almost chased him down the hallway. I caught up to him when he skidded to a halt in the living room doorway. Whatever destination he'd been headed to had seemed to flee from his mind. I ran up behind him and grabbed his shoulders. He didn't turn to look at me though.
"Riku?" I questioned. He was staring hard into the dining room area. You could see it from the living room. I craned my neck to see what he was looking so shocked at. My eyes bulged too.
Hey... I.... I know that guy...
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(Riku)
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Things were going down hill fast. And I couldn't catch up. I'd screwed up and revealed my attempt at suicide without having meant to. As was expected Sora went on his mother's rant. He was pissed and sad and confused. And at the same time he was understanding. He may have been yelling but his eyes had been telling me.
There has to be another way. We can deal with this. Just don't give up yet.
I felt so bad. So guilty. It was true... I had chickened out... I really sat and thought about... Was I really ready to die? NO... fuck no actually. Like I said... I'd tried to take the easy way out. And Sora had called me on it. I couldn't take it anymore. I couldn't think of anything else to do but run away from those pleading eyes of his. He was boring into my soul... I was as open as a window. I couldn't stop him for getting into my head.
Why did he always have to be right.
And I'd made it to the living room door way. I was so mad at myself I'd almost run into the wall. When I stopped to turn and get my bearings straight I happened to look up. There in the living room was.. well a stranger. But at the same time... He wasn't.
Sephiroth was sitting at our dining table.
"What are you doing here?!" I demanded. I don't know why I as getting flustered. The sight of the man had stopped me in my tracks. Um.. I hadn't expected to ever see him again. Not at the restaurant and certainly not in my own home. The man smiled and my face went feverishly hot. I turned slightly to hide my look of surprise.
Why.. did he have this affect on me...?
"Good morning to you too." He cooed. I noticed he was wearing clothes instead of pajamas. He looked like he was on his way to work on something. His hair was tied back instead of hanging loose though. And I found myself wishing he'd let if free to flow all over his painstakingly obvious powerful broad shoulders. I turned to Sora for some kind of focus. If he saw me getting a hot and heavy over this man... How would I explain myself.?
"I know you." Sora said and cocked his head to the side. I blinked several times as his voice registered and I snapped out of my little daydream.
Weren't... we just arguing or something...?
Sephiroth turned in his seat and leaned on the table. He was studying Sora like he was sizing him up for a duel. I raised an eyebrow at that and at Sora's comment.
Where did he know Sephiroth from?
"So you are the boyfriend." He said softly and let his eyes run over Sora's petite frame. Sora gaped just slightly and turned to look at me. I shrugged.
"You... don't look so fierce in your pajamas." Sephiroth said after a moment. Sora's cheeks were bursting with a pinkish tint. I mad a face.
"Just where and when did you meet Sora?" I asked and put my hand on my hip. My wrist protested in my left hand and I quickly lowered it. Sephiroth looked at the ceiling before he answered.
"Olympus Coliseum."
I went blank. I had no clue what they were talking about. What's... Olympus Coliseum? Another world maybe?
Sora smiled for some reason. "That's right. You were the challenger.. in the Platinum Match." His smile turned to a grin. "I won."
Sephiroth smirked at Sora then his lips went into a slow smile. A true smile that lacked any malice or predatory intentions. Sora seemed to have some... slight past history with this man. Which bothered me and consoled me. So... Sora had fought him it seemed at the Coliseum and won.
That's my baby. :)
I smiled to myself. Sora took a few steps forward and leaned onto the counter just at the kitchen entrance. He didn't seem to want to go in any further. Sephiroth turned to look at him with a calculating gaze.
"What are you doing here though?" Sora asked sweetly but his voice held a slightly cautious note. That was expected. Sora had fought this guy after all. I walked up behind my baby and put my hands on his shoulders to let him know I had his back if anything came up. Sephiroth chuckled to himself and winked at us. I don't know what that meant.
"It seems... My visit wasn't mentioned ahead of time."
His visit. So that means that Cloud knows he's here. Maybe... he's a room mate. There was an extra bedroom down the hall from Sora's and mine. At the thought of his name Cloud suddenly came into the kitchen. He was wearing a black tank top and a pair of grey sweat pants. His skin was slightly moist looking and his hair was, for once, not sticking straight up. He must have just gotten out of the shower.
"Oh... wow.. Hi.." He said timidly. I blinked at his tone of voice. He looked like he'd been caught doing something naughty.
"What are the two of you doing up so early?" He asked surprised and went to the fridge. He pulled out a bottle of water and started to drink it. I thought he was trying to avoid the not so inconspicuous stranger sitting right at the dining table.
Sephiroth tapped his nails on the table and gave Cloud at scolding look.
"You... didn't tell them." He said. It wasn't a question. Cloud lowered his water and looked at Sephiroth. It didn't take me long to figure out what was going on.
2 and 2 were starting to come together.
"Cloud... you were meeting Cloud at 7th Heaven last night." Cloud turned to look at me with a slight smile and a nod.
"Yeah... I had to... keep it under raps until I was ready to tell you about us."
Sora and I gaped.
"About... You two... are... together?" Sora squeaked. I wanted to laugh. No fucken way... Cloud was a lucky bastard.
"...Ah.. heh.. Yeah." He said and took a big gulp of his water. Why was he acting so ashamed. He was a grown up. He could do what he wants.
"How long?" Sora asked... a bit rudely actually and put a hand on his hip. Cloud took another longer gulp of his water. Sephiroth was shaking his head smiling slightly.
"A month." The older man said. I made a sound in my throat as a reply. I couldn't think of what to say. Sora on the other hand was full of questions.
"He's your light?"
I went blank again. I didn't know what they were talking about anymore. Cloud seemed to know exactly what Sora meant and he went to stand next to Sephiroth. He rested his hands on the mans shoulders and looked down at him with the most lovingly adoring expression I'd ever seen.
"Yes." Cloud said. I rolled my eyes. No one had answered my question yet.
"So.. why is he here?" I asked again. Cloud smiled up at me.
"I brought him here to meet you guys. I was just... planning on doing it a little later today though. I hadn't been expecting you guys to be up so early."
Cloud leaned down and gave Sephiroth a kiss on the cheek and I felt jealous for some reason. Sephiroth ran his hand up Clouds bare arm before he said.
"I should get going. I have to be at the office by eight." He stood and pushed in his chair. Sora took a step back and bumped into me for some reason. He looked at me with a worried glance. I mouthed the word 'what?' down at him. He didn't say anything but he kept glancing between me and Sephiroth.
What the hell was up with him doing that?
"Later then?" Cloud said softly. He looked into Sephiroth's eyes as the man felt around in his pocket and then pulled out his cell phone. Oh yeah.. Sephiroth was really tall. At least 6 feet. Cloud had to stand on his toes to kiss him on the lips.
"Later." Sephiroth purred and ran his finger tips across Clouds cheeks before he walked to the front door. I think all three of us were completely transfixed on his back side. He pulled on his long leather black trench coat and gloves then pulled his ponytail from inside his coat collar. Cloud made a musing sort of sound in his throat and the question of had Sephiroth and Cloud slept together yet crossed my mind. Well.. if Cloud hadn't fucked Sephiroth yet... something was really wrong. With both of them... Kidding.. I'm kidding.
Sephiroth gave us all a slight smile as he opened the door.
"Ciao." He breathed and left.
The door closed with a soft click and the room went silent. I was itching to ask Cloud a truck load of questions. But something kept me from asking them. It wasn't my business nor my right to pry into his personal business. I'm just glad he wasn't chasing after Leon anymore.
"He seems very nice. I like him." Sora said softly as he took a seat at the dining table. Cloud smiled at Sora's approval of his new lover. I shrugged. Why would my opinion matter.
"What.. do you think of him Riku?" Cloud asked me. I frowned and bit my lip. What to say. Well Cloud. He's an absolute joy to look at. You couldn't have found a better guy in all the galaxy. You're a lucky son of a witch. Hmmm
"He seems cool." That was good enough. Cloud smiled slightly.
"You know.. he told me he talked to you a bit last night." When Cloud said last night he put emphasis on the word. He was hinting at something else. Of course I knew what that was. I'm not about to talk about it.
"Yeah... so." I shrugged and turned to leave the kitchen. I wasn't going to give Cloud a chance to ask anything else. Sora seemed confused at my rude exit but he didn't seem to want to get involved.
"I'll start breakfast. Toast and eggs okay?" I heard him ask Cloud. I was just lingering in the hallway, not going back to our room. Cloud took a moment to respond.
"That's fine... Thanks." I know he was still watching the hallway .
"I'm going to go finish dressing." He said and started to make his way to the hall. Time for me to go.
"Riku."
Damn!
I paused in mid-step to turned to look at Cloud. He was eyeing me warily from the hallway entrance. I could hear water running in the kitchen so I knew Sora wouldn't over hear.
"About last night." He started.
I sighed. Fine... better to get this over with.
"What about it?" I groaned and leaned against the wall. I felt suddenly tired.... well... I'd been tired before this had all started. I wanted nothing more then to sleep now. Cloud walked up a little closer to me and leaned against the opposite wall. He had this big brotherly expression his face that was basically asking me to tell him what happened. I didn't say anything. Cloud had been the one to start this anyway. I gave this expression that said "Well?" in a slightly annoyed manner.
Cloud sighed and pursed his lips before he said.
"Aeris told me. About what Leon did to you and Sora."
AERIS DID WHAT!?
I kept my cool but my eyes went to the floor. Oh my god... he knew. I frowned in slight anger. Oh, now Aeris wanted to tell someone our little story.
"Why didn't you guys just tell me."
Why did people always ask that question? They made it sound like it was something that you could just come out right and say with no reservations. We weren't talking about the weather or how nice someone's garden looked. We were telling them about us being raped.
"Stupid question...." Cloud muttered to himself and ran his fingers through his hair. I suddenly felt bad for keeping it from him. But... I thought for some reason he'd go ballistic and try to go and murder Leon. I wanted him too. But I'd been scared for his life as well.
"....It's not.. something you talk about." I finally said. Cloud gave me an understanding look but his expression soon turned to face that told me that was no excuse at all.
"Riku. You told me you were gay. I think that's... kind of hard to talk about too you know."
Cloud was right. But I hadn't told him I was gay. He'd walked in on Sora and me about to kiss. I couldn't lie about my sexual preference after that.
"And did I ridicule you?"
I closed my eyes. How could he? He was gay too.... But he was right. I got nothing but support and honesty from him when I came out. Having him be there when I told the others made it so much easier. Clouds always excepted my life style.
"I was..." I ran a hand over my face. "I was afraid of what you'd do. And I was afraid of what Leon said he'd do if I told. I didn't want you getting involved..." I lowered my head slightly.
Clouds hands were suddenly on my chin and he was gently tipping my head up so I could look at him. His smile was so sincere that I felt my heart lift slightly from it. God... people just... needed to be nice like him. More people did.
"When I took you and Sora in, I wanted to get involved. The two of you are like brothers to me. If... you guys were ever hurt.. I don't know what I'd do. And now that I find out you have been hurt... Riku... I want to kill Leon.. you just don't understand how much it pained me to me to hear you and Sora's secret from Aeris."
I frowned. My secret... I hadn't once told Aeris I'd been raped too.
"She suspected. She told me that's why you were so mad. Because you'd been through it as well. She's very worried about you." Cloud let go of my face and backed away.
"You're not fired by the way."
I smiled... just slightly. Aeris was either too damn nice or she just really understood what was going on. At that moment my anger towards her disappeared and I was glad she had finally told. Now that someone I trusted knew about it, things would get better.
Right?
"Do you want to go the police?" Cloud asked me after a moment. He was motioning for me to follow him to his room. I did and lingered in the doorway while he continued to get dressed. You know... Cloud has really nice muscular arms.
"...With what evidence." I sighed and shrugged. "I mean... sure.. I can say all I want that Leon raped Sora and me. But the police aren't going to do anything about it without any evidence pointing to him." So basically that idea was shot to hell. It had been for a long time.
"Maybe not." Cloud said softly and pulled on a gray hooded sweater. It had white stripes going down the sleeves. I couldn't help but wonder if maybe Cloud was about to go running or something. I was curious as to how there could still be evidence of what Leon had done to me from over a month ago.
"On your clothes... or the sheets maybe..." Cloud turned to look at me and I was suddenly aware of what he was talking about. Oh god... he was right. After I'd climbed into bed that night... I woke up and found blood... and other stuff all over the sheets. I remember I just snatched them off and threw them into the corner of the room. I was going to burn them... but I'd never gotten around to it. Would they really still be there... Not that I wanted to see them. But maybe...
Oh no...
I gave Cloud a frightened look and he tilted his head.
"That means... we have to go back to that house..." I whispered. No way in Hell! I refuse! Absolutely Not! Nah ah! No way! NO! I wasn't going back.... he'd be there... I know he would be.
"I know you're scared. But.... I can go alone if you want. Just tell me where the sheets are." Cloud was rubbing my shoulder in a soothing manner. I leaned into him and put my head on his shoulder. It felt nice to be loved. Cloud would really go back there. All alone to get that disturbing bit of evidence for me. All so he could help and make things better.
I know now why Sora loves him so much.
"...I don't know..." I looked at him. Wow... Cloud had pretty eyes. He was smiling at me. A reassuring smile saying he would make things okay. With all the power he had he would find a way.
"If we do this... do you think they would catch him."
Cloud nodded a gave me a determined face. "Even if they don't, I'll catch him myself. I won't let him hurt the two of you again. I wish I'd known sooner... god.. it eats me up knowing..." Cloud paused and suddenly pulled me into a hug. I was surprised for a moment at his sudden compassion and just stood there limply.
"Don't be afraid okay. Leon won't take away your right to live happily. I won't let him. I'll help you and Sora get through this."
I finally hugged him back. I think I'm starting to love Cloud to. He's like a guardian angel. He really is.
"Thank you." I whispered and pulled back from him. "Thank you." And I smiled a real smile.
Cloud grinned at me and rumpled my hair slightly. ..No one had ever done that to me before.
"No problem."
I let my arms drop from his sides and leaned against the door.
"Tomorrow then?" I said. Cloud nodded.
Tomorrow.
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(Aeris)
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I felt so bad for everything I'd done and kept secret. I was so wrong for not doing anything sooner. How could allow such terrible things to happen to such wonderful sweet boys. They didn't deserve that.. and it kills me to know I was apart of their suffering.
I'm a horrible person. Riku was right. How could I call myself Sora's friend when I kept such a dark secret hidden. I should have gone to the police right away. I should have taken Sora in... But I didn't...
I was scared... I really was. But I was willing to be scared and hurt for Sora. All had to do was ask... no wait... he shouldn't have had to ask. I should have forced him to come live with me. I should have when I'd had the chance.
Riku had so much anger in his heart towards me now. I didn't blame him and I wasn't mad at him. I'd deserved that scolding. I just wish there was some way I could apologize to him now. Although.. I don't deserve forgiveness.
I wonder if he'll come back to 7th Heaven...
I finally told Cloud. I couldn't take it anymore. After what Riku had said and my own guilt. It was time someone else knew. Someone stronger. If I couldn't do anything about this, I knew that Cloud could. And that he would. Surprisingly he took the news quietly. He just listened to me. I was sobbing my eyes at. He held me and told me not to worry, that he would talk to Riku and Sora once he got the chance. I hope that chance was soon. I really wanted to help out now... in anyway. Even if I become Riku's main person to yell at. He needs to get all of the anger out... He really does.
I'm glad Sora had told him...
It was going on ten pm. I'd just finished locking up 7th Heaven. We'd been dead slow today. The night had seemed to drag on for hours and I was so glad to be going home. I wrapped my pale pink scarf around my neck and pulled on my gloves. The weather was ice tonight. We had some snow flurries to. I shuddered slightly and started to make my way down the street from the restaurant. There were few people out tonight. It was because it was so cold. The temp had dropped drastically since earlier today. I hugged myself and continued on. I had to make a stop and the convenience store on my way home to pick up some things.
A little bell rang as when I pushed open the door to the little store. The bright fluorescent lights blinded me for a second. It was really dark and gray out tonight. I took a breath and picked up a little shopping basket when I made my way down the household items isle. I noticed the store was empty other than for me. The clerk smiled at me from behind his desk.
"It's a little late to be shopping isn't it Miss Gainsborough?" He said. I smiled sweetly at him and shook my head.
"Oh no, I just got off of work. Had to grab a few things." I eyed a few various brands of dish detergent before I moved onwards. I was standing in front of the aerosol scented air fresher section. I pulled out a piece a paper and skimmed it. Hmm... I was out of cat food. That's where I went next. I grabbed a small bag of Meow Mix and some canned 9 lives before I went on. Laundry detergent was next on my list. I absently noted the bell from the door ring again but didn't pay it any mind. Looks like I wasn't the only one shopping late.
Next.... Oh what's this... Half off on all red stamped items. Hmmm....
I saw the other customer that had entered the store out of the corner of my eye. They had their hood up and their head tilted slightly down so I couldn't see a face. They were in the medicine section... which is where I had to go next. I started to feel uneasy for some reason. Okay... just walk around them. I made my way over to the medicine isle. The hooded person was tapping various pain killer brand boxes with there gloved hands. When I walked behind them they paid me no mind. I skimmed the medicine. Lets see...
The strange person knocked over a box of Tylenol. I smiled and reached down to get it as they did. My hand reached it first and I proceeded to pass the box to them.
"Here you go." I said. The person wouldn't look at me as I handed them their dropped item. I didn't get a thank you either. I noted to scent of a mans cologne when the stranger brushed by me. So it was a man.
"..um.. You're welcome.." I said. My feeling of uneasiness was stronger now. I glanced at my list and noted I just had a few more things to grab. I had the most important ones already though. I always wrote what I needed most importantly first on the list. It was time to pay for my things and go. I walked quickly up the cashiers desk and put my things on it so they could be rung up. The clerk was smiling at me again.
"You're a brave Miss Gainsborough." He said. The clerk was a young man by the way. He always called me by my last name, even though I'd told him Aeris was fine. His attempt at a light conversation wasn't welcome but I really wanted to go.
"Yes well, I have to be. This is my city just a much as it is anyone else's."
The boy nodded and bagged my things. He turned to type in something on his computer before he said.
"Your total is $12.50." I handed him and $20 dollar bill. He punched it in and was getting my change.
"$12.50 of twenty..." The clerk said to himself and handed me my bills and 2 quarters.
"$7.50 is your change." He tore off the receipt and put in one of my bags. "Have a nice evening...." He paused and licked his lips. "Um... Miss Gainsborough..?" He started I looked up at him while I was putting my money in my purse. He gave me a shy smile.
"Are.. you sure you'll be okay walking home alone? I can call a cab if you want."
I smiled again and picked up my bags. "Oh no, don't go out of your way. I'll be fine dear." I soothed and put my hand over his for a second to insure him of that. He blushed.
"Well.. okay... Be careful." He called after me as I left. I didn't look back but gave a slight wave. Once I was outside again I looked anxiously around. The streets were getting darker. A few neon lights flickered here and there and it was snowing heavily now. I'm glad I'd worn boots. Squaring my shoulders I continued on my way home.
It was only a few blocks away. I'd be fine.
*shaky breath*
I kept looking behind me on my trek home. My 6th sense was screaming for me to run. But I could barely walk straight in all of this snow. I was regretting not letting Tim, that's the store clerks name, call that cab. But I only had one more block to go. I put both of my bags in one hand so I could reach inside my purse for my keys. I stumbled in a step and nearly went down into the snow.
"Darn it.." I groaned and felt around in my purse. My fingers were stiff from being cold. I'd only had on some thin gloves instead of my hand made mittens. It was hard to feel anything in my purse. I heard the jingle of my keys and wrapped them in my fist as I walked on. I just had to turn a corner and I'd be home. A gust of wind hit me hard in the face and I took a clumsy step back and shielded my eyes. My keys slipped from my fingers and plumped into the snow.
This... was just not my night...
I couldn't tell where they'd fallen. So I dug around in the frosty white fluff for a few moments. My coat sleeve had risen up so snow was getting on my bare skin and into my gloves. I just couldn't feel my fingers at all anymore. I sniffled and blinked against the cold wind.
"Where.... are they.." I wanted to home so badly. I was about to give up and just make my way on home... I'd just have to break in... But I took a step and kicked my keys out the snow. I laughed beside myself and picked them up.
Yes!
I started to jog then and reached my doorstep with no further incidents. I managed to get the key into the hole to unlock the door even though my hands were shaking uncontrollably. I pushed into the kitchen and closed the door behind me and made sure to lock the dead bolt. The warmth from the house was so wonderful on my frost ridden face. I sighed and turned on the kitchen light.
Ahh it was good to be home.
I brushed snow off of my hood and shoulders before stomping snow and frost off of my boots and stepped out of them on the welcome mat. My feet were so numb that the floor felt strange under my socked feet. I sat my groceries on the counter top and started to remove my coat.
"Mittens. *tsk tsk* Here kitty, kitty." My little white kitten came bounding around the corner, his bell collar jingling merrily.
"There you are." I kneeled down and pulled the ball of fur into my arms. He felt so nice against my cold skin. He was so warm and soft. I kissed his forehead and he started to purr loudly.
"I brought you something." I chirped and lifted Mittens into my arm to dig around in my bags. I found the canned cat food.. and noted it was really cold. Probably frozen. I bit my lip.
"Well, lets fix that." I said to Mittens and put him on the counter to walk around. He kept trying to rub his head against me whenever I reached past him. I took a saucer and dumped the frozen chicken flavored food onto it. It was rock hard. Mittens started licking at it.
"Ah ah. Hold on now. Let me warm it up." I tapped his nose and he meowed. I put the plate of cat food into the microwave for a few seconds and let it thaw. Mittens was watching the plate go round and round in the microwave. That made me laugh. I was putting on a pot of tea to warm myself up. When the microwave beeped I went and pulled out the saucer of cat food and mashed it up with a fork before sitting it on the floor. Mittens leapt from the counter top and went to scarf down his food.
I was still freezing so I went to take a nice hot shower before I settled down to sip my tea and maybe curl up with a book. The tea kettle was whistling gently once I'd made my way back to the kitchen in my pajamas, my hair wrapped up in a towel. Mittens had curled up on his bed next to the stove. I put away all of the things I'd bought and poured myself a cup of green tea. It was about midnight when I glanced at the clock over the stove.
It was late. Maybe I should just go to bed.
Oh... I have to check my phone for messages. So I made my way with my tea in hand on a saucer the living room I sat down my warm drink and tapped the button on the phone to check my messages. The little electronic voice told me I had 4. I hit play so I could listen to them.
"Hey Aeris, it's Yuffie. I was calling see if we were still on for our shopping spree tomorrow. If you get this message after 8 I won't be home so just hit me back on my machine okay. Luv ya!"
I smiled at Yuffie's exuberant tone. I could just see her face as she spoke those words. I would call her in the morning. Next message.
"Aeris this Cloud. I'm going to tell Riku and Sora tonight. I don't know what'll happen after that. I'll keep you posted. Later."
I pursed my lips. Oh... I hope things go well. I'd call Cloud in the morning for an update too. Message number 3.
"It's Cid. I'll be by on Thursday to put sealant on your windows. I told you to do this before it snowed girl. See you soon. Highwind out."
I laughed softly. Cid was such a gruff sweet person. Oh... I forgot to pick the sealant glue up... another thing to do in the morning. Last message.
I hit the play button and nothing came on. No voice, no background noises... Just silence. I frowned and was about to hit stop when a soft but deep voice came on.
"So you know. Well, what are you going to do about it." I paused, trying to place the voice. It sounded slightly muffled. The message went on after a moment.
"You shouldn't have walked home alone."
Click.
The message stopped and I felt my heart constrict in fear. Oh my heavens... I noted that the messages time was from barely half an hour ago. This man must have called while I was in the shower. I could only think... it had been the man from the store... but how did he have my number? Was he a customer at the restaurant? He'd have gotten it off of my business cared. Oh dear...
*Ding dong*
I whipped around so quickly I bumped the table next to me and knocked over my tea. It splashed to the carpet but the glass cup and saucer didn't break. I pulled the towel off of my head and started bolting my poor white carpets to save them from the tea stain. The door bell rang again and I tried to ignore it. Who was that at this time of night. My instinct told me not to open it....
*Ding dong*
Whoever it is knew I was home... I paused in my scrubbing and stared at the door.
*Ding dong*
I stood, the tea soiled towel still in my hand. My breath came out shuddery when the door bell rang again. "Just go away..." I breathed and looked around. I needed something... anything. I picked up my cordless phone and put my finger over the 911 speed dial button. Just in case...
My hair hung damp and wavy at my waist as I went slowly to the door. I tried to peek out from the window but my porch light wasn't on. I pressed against the door and said softly.
"Who is it?"
There was no answer for a moment.
"You know."
I looked upward and prayed silently. It was Leon. What did he want at this time of night? I didn't feel much better knowing it was him behind the door though. At least it was someone that I knew. I made sure the chain was locked before I pulled open the door just a hair. I peeked out and the bitter air hit me in the eye. I blinked before I asked.
"Do you know what time it is?" Leon shrugged under his hood. His face looked cold and his cheeks were red.
"Thought I'd drop by."
I made a suspicious face. Something about all of this wasn't right. Leon wasn't the type to just drop by. He and I weren't even friends like that. I frowned at Leon and he stared coldly back at me.
"Drop by... for what?"
Leon blew a breath of frosty air. I noticed it was snowing heavily again. Leon looked really cold. Oh well...
"To talk." He said stiffly. He was either getting annoyed or freezing. Probably both. I was getting chills from the cold air that was managing to slip in the crack from the door. Leon was staring to aggravate me.
"Talk...? Leon w...w...what do y...y...you want.t.t.t.t....?" I chattered. I'd meant to ask it in a huffy tone. But I was so cold now that it came out meek and broken. Leon put his gloved hands in his pocket and shivered.
"Have you seen Riku and Sora?"
I blinked. His tone... sounded... concerned.
"I haven't seen them for awhile... Any idea where they could be?" Leon's blue eyes held a hint of something dark when he'd asked that. I went on alert. Since when did he worry about other people? And after what he'd done to Sora and Riku... this was all very wrong.
"No I don't. You should go home before you get sick." I said, trying to sound truthful and worried for his health. I didn't want him getting suspicious. I started to close the door.
"Good night Leon." He was glaring at me. I ignored him and kept shutting the door. He put his hand up to stop me. I frowned harder.
"It's late okay. Good night." I hissed.
"Where are they?" Leon demanded softly. He now had his foot jammed into the small opening in the door. I pushed against it as to not allow him anymore room. I knew I was smashing his foot but he showed no signs of pain.
"I said I don't know." I growled. I was about to hit the 911 button. Leon lowered his head slightly and smiled.
"I cut your phone line."
I gaped and hit the button. Nothing happened. The phone didn't even come on. I looked disbelieving at Leon. What was his problem. Why was he doing this.
"Please... just go home." I pleaded. My voice was quivering with fear and I know Leon could hear it. He shook his head.
"Open the door Aeris." Leon's tone was threatening. I pushed harder against the door.
"No! Leon... please just go away!" I was scared now. Leon wanted to know where Riku and Sora where. I wasn't going to tell him at all.
"You shouldn't have walked home alone." Leon breathed into the crack in the door. I backed away and glanced at the phone message from half any hour ago.
Leon had been in the store with me.
"Why do you want to know where Riku and Sora are?" I asked hastily. I was breathing fast out of fear. I had to stall for time. I had to think of a way to get out of here. Leon couldn't fit his head into the door so he pulled his foot back and said.
"You know why."
I got angry. "You're a sick terrible person for what you did! How could you hurt them like that!?" Tears welled in my eyes and I brushed them away. God... what am I going to do...
"I have my reasons. Where are they." Leon asked again.
"I don't know." I huffed.
"Yes you do. Just tell me and I'll leave you alone." He went silent, waiting for my reply.
"Go to Hell!" I hissed. Leon pulled the door closed just slightly. I was about to run over and slam it closed and lock the dead bolt when he suddenly rammed it. The chain bent and broke and he walked in slowly.
"Now what where you saying?" He asked softly and let down his hood. I ran and he followed. I'd managed to get to my bedroom and almost slam the door before he shoved it open. I went flying to floor and hit it hard on my backside. Leon shook his head and stomped in. I back up on my hands to get away.
"You little Bitch." He hissed and grabbed me by my hair to pull me up. I cried out and slapped him in the face. He laughed and tossed me onto the bed.
This... had to be a nightmare.
"I tried to be nice about all of this." Leon breathed. He was slightly out of breath. "Is that all you've got?" He taunted. I was so scared I couldn't breath properly. Leon grabbed my leg and pulled me down to him before he climbed on top of me and gripped my wrists. Tears were pouring freely from my eyes and I silently pleaded for him not to hurt me.
"Oh, don't cry sweetheart." He teased and brushed a hand across my breast down to my
thigh. I chocked on a sob.
"Please..." I begged. I was shivering I was so terrified. Leon put his cold hand under my shirt and pushed it up He ran his hand over my stomach and stopped just below my breasts. I flinched away from discomfort and bitter frost of his touch.
"I don't worry. I'm not going to fuck you." He leaned into my ear. "Women like you aren't my type." He kissed my cheek. I glared through my tears and looked him in the eye when he pulled back.
"NO! Innocent little boys are! You sick BASTARD!" Leon slapped me with his free hand. I bit my tongue.
"You've got jokes." He reached into his pocket and sat back. I was watching him out of the corner of my eye. He was staring at me through a slight annoyed gaze.
"Here's the deal." He pulled something out of his pocket. I couldn't tell what it was. "You tell me what I want to know." He flicked his wrist and something cold was running up my belly. Something cold and sharp.
"And I won't gut you like a fish."
I started to cry harder.
"Why.. are you doing this?" I questioned sadly. Leon was an evil terrible man. A rapist... and now maybe a killer. I didn't care what he did to me... I wasn't telling him where Riku and Sora where. I owed them this...
"Why?" Leon repeated and tilted his head. "I don't know.... because I can." He pressed the knife into my skin and I felt it break slightly. It stung.
"Now stop stalling and tell me where they are."
"I don't know."
Leon put the blade in my face. His expression was blank but I could tell he was getting tired of me. He'd kill me at this rate.
I was scared...
"Maybe I won't kill you. I'll just cut up this pretty face of yours." He slashed my cheek with his knife. The pain registered so quickly that I could barely cry out. Leon laughed slightly and pointed the knife back in my face.
"Ready to tell me now?"
I panted and swallowed hard. My cheek was throbbing with pain. I couldn't believe this was happening. My god.. what did Leon want Riku and Sora so badly for? He'd hurt them already. They were scarred for life. What else did he want?
Oh knew... Leon was afraid they'd tell and he'd be caught. He wanted to silence them.
He wanted to kill them.
"Well?!" Leon yelled for the first time. "I'm tired of fucking around with you. Either you answer or I cut your damn throat!" I flinched away from him. And I noted for the first time in my mind that... even if I told Leon Sora and Riku where with Cloud.. I had no idea where Cloud lived. He'd never told me or anyone. I just know he lived downtown.
"With Cloud." I said finally. Leon blinked a few times. I guess that was the last thing he'd expected to hear.
"Where does he live?" Leon asked hastily. I wanted to laugh at him.
"I don't know. Honestly. Cloud's never told me where he lives. I swear to you!" I was telling the honest truth. Leon seemed lost for a moment as his face registered my words as true.
"You were sleeping with Cloud and you don't even know where he lives." I commented offhandedly to Leon. He glared at me but didn't do anything more. His anger seemed to be rising though.
"Then you'll call him and find out." He finally said. I blinked back more tears. I was a little happy I had some slight control over this whole situation.
"You cut my phone line." I reminded him bitterly. He growled at hit me again after letting go of my wrists.
"Fuck.." He murmured. He still had his knife pointed at me. I looked around for something to grab and hit him with. All I had in reach was a pillow. That wouldn't do anything but stun him and make him mad. Leon had his back to the door and I looked there. My eyes widened when I saw a shadow lurking there. I couldn't who it was though. The person walked into the dim light of the window and I saw it was Tim from the store.
Praise the Heavens.
"You're afraid of him aren't you? Of Cloud?" I started talking to keep Leon from suspecting anything. Tim snuck up and grabbed one of my lamps with out make a sound. He kneeled down to unplug it. I'm glad it hadn't been on or he'd be given away. Leon didn't seem to like my comment and he grabbed my throat. I gasped in pain and surprise.
"Afraid?! I'm not afraid of anyone!" He hissed into my face.
"But.. you're afraid of Riku and Sora telling... So that makes you afraid of them..." I chocked. Tim was just on Leon and the crazed bastard hadn't noticed him.
"Fuck those little snot faced brats. When I find them I'll rape them again and fucking slit their throats and toss them in the river." My eyes widened at Leon. He wasn't kidding.
"They can meet you at the bottom." He breathed and reached back with his knife to stab me. I gasped and Tim cracked the lamp across Leon's head. Leon groaned loudly and stumbled off of me. The lamp hadn't broken so Tim hit Leon again. Blood was pouring down Leon's forehead now. But he was still standing. Tim held up his hands and the still undamaged lamp.
"I called the police. They'll be here any minute." Tim said rushed and pulled out his cell phone to prove Leon that what he'd said was true. Leon ran a hand over his forehead and looked at the blood on his finger tips. Sirens started blaring outside not to far away. Leon gave Tim and me a long sidelong glare before he fled the room. I heard the front door slam behind him.
Oh my god... he was gone....
"Miss Gainsborough!" Tim yelled worried and ran to me. He sat my lamp down on the floor as I sat up. I pulled my shirt down and cradled my cheek. Tim pulled his coat off and put it around me.
"I'll get a wet towel." He told me and went to search for the bathroom. I don't know why he'd decided to come by but I'm so grateful he had. It was a blessing was all I could say. When the police finally skidded to a halt in their cars at my home about 6 of them came in. A women officer looked me over and told me I needed snitches on my face. I'd have a scar. It didn't mind. I'd have taken more to keep Riku and Sora safe. Tim stayed with me the whole time and let me use his phone to call Cloud. I wanted to call Cid too.. but he didn't know what was going on. Best to not involve him. The police told me they didn't see Leon or any other suspicious character lurking about. I started to cry out the fact that he'd gotten away.
So close...
Tim had told me he'd been worried about if I'd gotten home safely not and that Leon, the hooded man in the store, had left soon after I did and followed me home After Tim had closed up the store he walked down my block to see if the lights were on. He said he'd seen the front door wide open and came in to investigate. I was so happy and grateful he'd done that. But I know feared for his life. Leon could come after him now. I told Tim this and he was escorted home by the police. They would handle it from there.
I asked about my cat and a police officer brought him to me. They asked me what Leon looked like and other various questions and why had he attacked me. I hesitated in telling them. I didn't know what to say. If I told them the truth they'd know about Riku and Sora's rapes. I didn't know if I should talk about that to them yet.
"He..." I started and that's when Cloud walked into the room.
----------
(Riku)
----------
Sora and I were in bed when the phone rang. Sora had already fallen asleep and I was just about to follow him into dream land when the blaring of the cordless started. I rolled over and put my arms around Sora's waist and snuggled up to him. I was dead set on ignoring the phone. Who the hell calls at this time of night? Something told me it could be important or an emergency. I was about to reach over and pick it up when the rings abruptly stopped. Cloud must have answered it or the person had stopped calling. I closed my eyes and sighed. Sleep had caught me already. I was just dozing off when Cloud suddenly burst into our room.
"Riku, Sora!" He yelled. I jumped and turned to look at him. Sora was startled out of his sleep and looked wide eyed over his shoulder at Cloud.
"What..." I groaned. My heart was beating a mile a minute. Cloud was pulling on clothes for some reason and I felt myself getting worried. Sora sat up and hugged onto my arm.
"Cloud... what's wrong?" He whispered in fear. Cloud pulled down his turtle neck.
"It's Aeris. She's been hurt." Sora and I both gaped in shock. Oh my god... what's happened?
"Is...Is she alright?" I asked concerned. I may have been slightly mad at Aeris, but I didn't want her hurt in anyway. Cloud shook his head slightly and I took a sharp breath.
Oh no..
Sora was crawling out of bed.
"She couldn't tell me much over the phone. I'm going to her place now. The police..."
I cut in. "Police!? It's that bad?" I stood up. This was all a bad dream. Would the drama ever end. I hoped and prayed silently that Aeris was alright. I would never forgive myself if she was seriously injured.
"Yes. Look, Seph will be here to get me in a few minutes. You two stay here and keep the phone close to you." I sat down shakily on the bed. Sora was up though.
"But.... we want to come with you to make sure Aeris is...."
"NO!" Cloud yelled. Sora flinched away. I looked wide eyed at Cloud for his sudden outburst. He looked nervous, worried, angry, and scared all at the same time. What had happened to Aeris that was so bad that we couldn't come? We just wanted to see if she was okay.
"Cloud..." I started. He gave me a grim look. I shook my head in confusion.
"It was Leon..."
Sora and I froze.
"He's looking for the two of you."
Good, Bad? Review please.
Authors Notes: This was nearly 30 pages long. OMG *finger craps*. So Sora knows about Riku's attempt at suicide. What do you think about his reaction? Was he to calm maybe? Riku is on an all out guilt trip now. He's hiding it well though. You'll see in in full force the next chapter. Seph and Cloud's relationship is out in the open. I only slightly hinted at Riku's slowly developing desire for Sephiroth. The tasty bits will show very soon. Cloud knows about Sora and Riku's rape. He took it well huh? Yeah right. *evil grin* New POV. Aeris's little scene was suspenseful huh? This is what happens when I watch Scream 2. Was it good? Aeris had a lot more screen time then I'd normally intended. I feel as though I captured her personality okay though. She's less sweet and innocent to me somehow (she said Bastard, lol!). I like how I made her less damsel in distress when Leon attacked her. She was willing to die to protect Riku and Sora. Don't worry, I'm not going to kill her later. Hmm, what do you guys think about Tim? Where you cheering when he beat the shit out of Leon with the lamp. I was! He's a hero! He wasn't supposed to be important, he didn't have a name until halfway through Aeris's POV and if you guys want I'll use him in the story again.
Anyway, next chapter. Clouds rage towards Leon is slowly building over what he did to Sora and Riku, and now Aeris and he goes with Riku back to the 'abandoned house' in district 3 to retrieve some evidence. A trip to the police station leads to nowhere. Riku has a panic attack when he's alone with Sora and does something awful (much much worse then a slap). He runs away from home. Sora tells Cloud and Cloud has Seph keep in eye out for Riku. He's discovered by Sephiroth on a bridge over looking the river. Riku tries to jump. Seph talks him out of it and takes Riku home. Riku does something bad with Seph. Sora is going crazy with worry. Riku runs away again. He's gone for 4 days. A boys body washes up on the river bank and a phone call at 2 am is made to Sora.
(Just let all of that sink in now.)
Welcome to all of my newest readers. Just to let you all know, my reviewers, I wouldn't have continued this story without your constant support. It's a hard subject to talk about let alone write about. I'm glad Innocence Corrupted is making it's way across FanFiction.net. I'm glad you guys keep coming back for more of the drama and are continuously pleased with each chapter. And you guys just have to be the coolest people to put up with my constant typos. By the way, this is the first and probably not the last time, another characters, other then Sora's and Riku's, point of view will be present in the story.
Shameless plug. I'm trying to promote my site. I'm selling prints and doing commissions. I need money for college. If you want a favorite video game/anime/original character drawn you can go here www.destiny-makers.net/buy.html. Or if you just want to look at pictures of Riku and Sora you can visit www.destiny-makers.net for my SquareSoft fanart collection. Spread the word. :)
Anyway onto the story.
Chapter 12
I tried to pretend I was sleeping when Sora finally awoke that morning. In truth I was just resting with my eyes closed. I hadn't been asleep the entire night. The dull and aching sensation in my wrist wouldn't let me. And my mind was racing too much to allow my brain to shut down for awhile. When I felt Sora stirring I went rigid. I was afraid for some reason. The events from last night still fresh in my mind.
I'd hit him and then we'd had sex.
Doesn't that sound wrong to you?
I'm glad I didn't sleep. I know I would've had nightmares.
Sora was awakening really slowly. I guess he'd exhausted himself last night. Sex had that kind of affect. I was still kind of tingly myself.
That could be from extensive blood loss too.
The sun was peeking up behind me from the slightly drawn blinds. Sora had finally sat up and was moving around. He seemed stiff too. I know why. I hadn't exactly been gentle with him. I frowned at that. I'd been so lost in ecstasy that I hadn't thought to slow down or be gentle. And it really hadn't help that Sora was airily panting "harder" and "yes" in my ear.
Sigh.
Sora stopped moving. Dear god I hope he's not watching me. I think I sighed too loud.
"Riku." He whispered. I didn't move or stir even the slightest bit. I didn't want him to see me yet.
"...Still sleeping..." He breathed. I know he was talking to himself. But he'd said it out loud.
Finally, after what felt like a few hours, Sora ambled out of bed. He was still groggy. I could tell because he couldn't untangle himself from the blanket. When he winced I almost turned around to check on him. He was is pain.
Damn... I had been to rough.
We'd used no lubricant either...
I'm such a shit... how could I do that to him.
He was heading towards the bathroom. I didn't bother pretending to sleep anymore. He had his back to me. He'd dropped the blanket all together and was limping into the bathroom. I wanted to kick myself. If I could I really would. Really hard.
I'd hurt him...
I heard the shower start up and decided to sit up. My muscles protested loudly and painfully when I did. My lower back was killing me, I'm sure you know why, and I felt kind of dizzy. I had lost more blood then I'd thought. I'd be fine in a few days if I took it easy. I finally glanced at the clock and noted it was 6:30 in morning. I was up to damn early for no reason. I didn't have to work today, or at all anymore cause I wasn't going back to 7th Heaven. Not as long as Aeris was there. I was serious about that part.
Okay... if I needed the money I'd go back... unless Aeris decided to fire me...
Oh well..
I wanted to go into the bathroom and check on Sora. I was also mentally making a blue print of the bathroom, insuring myself I'd cleaned up all the blood. If Sora saw it he'd freak out. If he saw my wrist he'd die. Speaking of my wrist. My bandage was soaked red.
......
I had to go into the bathroom to change it.
I gritted my teeth and made my way there. Sora took long showers. He probably wouldn't even notice me. Unless he was in protective mode. Then he'd hear me before I came in.
"Riku."
Protective mode was in full throttle.
I clenched my jaw and answered.
"Yeah..." My voice sounded really hoarse. Probably from all of that yelling from last night.
"Morning hun." Sora chirped. He sounded really tired. I smiled beside myself. He was trying to hard to make things be normal and comfortable. But his mood was scaring me more then consoling me. Why was he trying so hard to make last night seem like it hadn't happened? I wanted to talk about it... really badly.
"Riku?" Sora said again and peeked out of the shower. I was lingering in the door way, with my bandaged arm outside of his view. He smiled that big toothy grin of his when he saw me but didn't say anything.
"It's early." I finally said after listening to the water run for awhile. It was starting to lull me to sleep. I realized how tired I'd really been and yawned. Then rubbed at my eyes.
"So why are you up?" Sora teased. I was in no way a morning person. Sora was laughing to himself about that too.
"I'm gonna go back to bed." I said but I didnt' leave the bathroom. Instead I tip toed over to the sink and found the first aid kit. I unraveled the soiled bandage around my wrist and hastily, but neatly, wrapped a fresh clean one around it. Sora was oblivious to the whole thing. Good. I'm glad Cloud had opted for navy tented shower curtains instead of clear ones.
I'd made it out of the bathroom in a clean sweep. Sora was just getting out of the shower as I was climbing back into bed. I could barely keep my eyes open now. As soon as my head hit the pillow I was dozing off. Sora came into the room bolting himself dry with a big white towel. He looked so... innocent with his hair all wet and hanging in his face. I smiled again at the picture. Sora was innocent.
"Good shower?" I mumbled drowsily. I blinked really hard to try and make myself stay awake long enough to hear Sora's reply.
"Yeah." He breathed and went to look for pajamas. I could hear the drawers and shifting of clothing for a moment before Sora sat down on the bed. He cringed just slightly and I heard him do it.
"You're sore aren't you...?" I said. I didn't want to make it sound so obvious. Sora would deny it up and down anyway. He glanced at me and I saw how red his cheek was for the first time that morning. I think I chocked on a gasp from that. I was awake now.
"..I'm fine. It's not like we haven't been.... rough during sex before. It's okay." Sora said. I shook my head in disbelief. He sounded like me. When I'd always say I was fine and I really wasn't.
"....we shouldn't have..." I started and Sora turned on me. He was searching my face for an explanation. I hadn't even finished my sentence yet.
"What?" He whispered. I could hear the dread in his voice and I inwardly winced. I really didn't want to cause Sora anymore pain. Physically or mentally. He was looking at me with an odd expression. Like I was acting strangely or something. I was trying to be serious but gentle with him about all of this.
".... The sex. We shouldn't have done that last night. It wasn't the right time."
Sora took a shaky breath and turned away from me to put on his pajama bottoms. He didn't say anything for a few moments and I sighed in frustration. I hadn't it when our talks went like this. Sora either didn't want to talk about it or didn't know what to say. I think it was both this time.
"It was a mistake."
I should not have said it like that. Sora froze.
"I mean..." I sat up and ran my hands through my hair. I'd put myself waist deep in shit by saying that just now. I had to think of a way to fix that right now.
"That's not... what I meant. What I mean is.... after what... after the argument it just didn't... seem right.. You know..." I hoped he understood what I was trying to say.
"... But...." Sora started. I scratched my head out of nervousness and lack of anything better to do while I waited for him to answer.
"But.. I had to show that things were okay... that they would be okay. I don't.. care about what happened before we made love...." He turned to me. There were tears in his eyes. "Okay, Riku. Can we just... forget about what happened before that? Only remember the good part." He was pleading with me.
The good part. Sora had been terrified of me last night. He'd had sex with out of fear. Out of desperation.
That was... like rape...
"....I want to talk about this Sora. About everything."
Sora's head slumped forward and he went silent. I bit my lip because I was at a loss. I didn't really know how to continue this conversation. How do you start talking about something like this.
Hitting your boyfriend.... and then... pretty much raping him...
"You didn't force me Riku." Sora said and finally turned back around. I eyed him in surprise. He'd read my thoughts. He climbed up onto the bed and sat next to me. I could smell soap and water all over him and it made my senses flair. I wanted to grab Sora and hug him so tight he'd pop.
God.. I loved him so much.
This was tearing me up inside.
"I know that's what you're thinking. Yes... it's true you were being a bit... demanding last night. But I initiated it. I did it to show I loved you. I wasn't scared." Sora took my face into his hands and looked me in the eyes.
"Don't even think it. YOU are NOT like HIM!" He leaned in to kiss me then and I kissed back. He didn't know how good it made me feel to hear him say that. God bless Sora and his mind reading abilities.
"..What about me hitting you? I had no reason to do that...." I frowned sadly at him. His eyes were forgiving me in a way so loudly he couldn't have said it better in words.
"I'm sorry." I said again and cradled his cheek in my hand. He shook his head and kissed me again.
"It's okay. Everything is okay." Again he kissed me. I ran my finger tip over his bottom lip and smiled.
Maybe... maybe things were okay...
"Riku..." Sora was eyeing me wildly. His brows had knitted into a harsh frown. I blinked several times out of confusion.
"What is this...?" He said and pulled my hand away from his face. I felt my lungs constrict painfully.
Oh... Fuck...
-----------
(Sora)
-----------
Riku was finally looking like he'd understood that I wasn't mad at him. About anything.
Things were fine. I was willing and determined to make that sink in. I'd force it into my persona if I had to. I'd really just chocked last night off as a bad dream. It was over. It's lingering affects had almost if not completely faded away with the new morning sun. I was going to let it go.
Riku was cradling my cheek, the slightly tender one, with his left hand. I smiled into his eyes which were bright with love and understanding. I was about to kiss him again for the 4th time in a row when I noticed a bandage around his arm. It hadn't been there the night before and I was curious about it. I figured it was just something I'd over looked. A wound from a month ago that wasn't quite healed completely. I thought this... until I saw fresh blood seeping in the white of the bandage.
"What is this...?" I hissed beside myself and yanked away from Riku's caress. I saw panic and confusion cross his face in a split second. I've never seen anyone look so guilty in my entire life. He didn't answer but he tried to roughly pry his hand away from me.
"What happened to your arm Riku?" I demanded him to tell me. In the back of my mind though.. I already knew what it was.
Riku seemed to realize that too.
"Why..?!" I finally cried and grabbed his shoulders. He looked wide eyed at me but his mouth remained shut. I took at harsh shuddery breath.
"What have you done?!" I shook him again and this time gripped his face.
Things were... they were almost okay. We were so close.
"Riku.. answer me!" I sobbed into his shirt. He ran his right hand through my hair before he answered.
"...It.. won't happen again." He said hauntingly. I looked up at him and sniffled.
"How many times have you tried this...?"
Riku closed his eyes and I braced my heart for a his reply. I thought he was going to say 6 or 7 times. Maybe more.
"Once... just last night.." The way he said it made me know it was the truth.
"Why... are things that bad...?"
Riku gave me a frown.
"...Yes and no... I panicked... I was just so fucking mad at myself for last night.... I... It won't happen again okay."
"I don't believe you." I said stiffly. I didn't believe him.
Riku's eyes snapped down to me. He looked slightly stunned for a moment.
"I deserved that... I swear.. I won't try it again..." He gave me a reassuring smile. But in only further disturbed me.
"There are other ways then slitting your wrists to kill yourself, Riku."
I wasn't trying to give him ideas. I was just letting him know if he tried anything else I'd hate him. Forever.
"I panicked.... I chickened out anyway... I couldn't do it." He said and went to lye back down. I frowned and climbed on top of him.
"...Are you okay?" I asked. I was so worried. What if he'd cut deep enough? He could still be in danger of bleeding to death.
"I missed the vein." He stated simply. "You're worrying to much about this." He closed his eyes to go to sleep then.
"I'm tired of worrying." I hissed. Riku opened his eyes. "I'm always the one who has to deal with you when you're hurt. I'm always the one crying and being sad. I'm tired of that. And then you act like.. it's not big deal... making me cry is no big deal to you?"
Riku didn't seem to have an answer for that.
"What if I'd been the one to try and kill myself?" I asked. Riku's mouth gaped open.
"How would that make you feel. Knowing that I'd tried to end my life... because I was so sad over something I'd done to you?"
Riku blinked.
"You'd probably just think I was weak... and that I'd given up... Well that's what I think of you. I thought you were stronger then this Riku!"
I echoed Riku's words to me. The same words he'd uttered during my final battle wiht Ansem. I watched as his face twisted into a guilty frown and he almost threw me off of him. I scrambled to catch up with him as he fled from the room
"Riku....wait!" I called and almost chased him down the hallway. I caught up to him when he skidded to a halt in the living room doorway. Whatever destination he'd been headed to had seemed to flee from his mind. I ran up behind him and grabbed his shoulders. He didn't turn to look at me though.
"Riku?" I questioned. He was staring hard into the dining room area. You could see it from the living room. I craned my neck to see what he was looking so shocked at. My eyes bulged too.
Hey... I.... I know that guy...
----------
(Riku)
----------
Things were going down hill fast. And I couldn't catch up. I'd screwed up and revealed my attempt at suicide without having meant to. As was expected Sora went on his mother's rant. He was pissed and sad and confused. And at the same time he was understanding. He may have been yelling but his eyes had been telling me.
There has to be another way. We can deal with this. Just don't give up yet.
I felt so bad. So guilty. It was true... I had chickened out... I really sat and thought about... Was I really ready to die? NO... fuck no actually. Like I said... I'd tried to take the easy way out. And Sora had called me on it. I couldn't take it anymore. I couldn't think of anything else to do but run away from those pleading eyes of his. He was boring into my soul... I was as open as a window. I couldn't stop him for getting into my head.
Why did he always have to be right.
And I'd made it to the living room door way. I was so mad at myself I'd almost run into the wall. When I stopped to turn and get my bearings straight I happened to look up. There in the living room was.. well a stranger. But at the same time... He wasn't.
Sephiroth was sitting at our dining table.
"What are you doing here?!" I demanded. I don't know why I as getting flustered. The sight of the man had stopped me in my tracks. Um.. I hadn't expected to ever see him again. Not at the restaurant and certainly not in my own home. The man smiled and my face went feverishly hot. I turned slightly to hide my look of surprise.
Why.. did he have this affect on me...?
"Good morning to you too." He cooed. I noticed he was wearing clothes instead of pajamas. He looked like he was on his way to work on something. His hair was tied back instead of hanging loose though. And I found myself wishing he'd let if free to flow all over his painstakingly obvious powerful broad shoulders. I turned to Sora for some kind of focus. If he saw me getting a hot and heavy over this man... How would I explain myself.?
"I know you." Sora said and cocked his head to the side. I blinked several times as his voice registered and I snapped out of my little daydream.
Weren't... we just arguing or something...?
Sephiroth turned in his seat and leaned on the table. He was studying Sora like he was sizing him up for a duel. I raised an eyebrow at that and at Sora's comment.
Where did he know Sephiroth from?
"So you are the boyfriend." He said softly and let his eyes run over Sora's petite frame. Sora gaped just slightly and turned to look at me. I shrugged.
"You... don't look so fierce in your pajamas." Sephiroth said after a moment. Sora's cheeks were bursting with a pinkish tint. I mad a face.
"Just where and when did you meet Sora?" I asked and put my hand on my hip. My wrist protested in my left hand and I quickly lowered it. Sephiroth looked at the ceiling before he answered.
"Olympus Coliseum."
I went blank. I had no clue what they were talking about. What's... Olympus Coliseum? Another world maybe?
Sora smiled for some reason. "That's right. You were the challenger.. in the Platinum Match." His smile turned to a grin. "I won."
Sephiroth smirked at Sora then his lips went into a slow smile. A true smile that lacked any malice or predatory intentions. Sora seemed to have some... slight past history with this man. Which bothered me and consoled me. So... Sora had fought him it seemed at the Coliseum and won.
That's my baby. :)
I smiled to myself. Sora took a few steps forward and leaned onto the counter just at the kitchen entrance. He didn't seem to want to go in any further. Sephiroth turned to look at him with a calculating gaze.
"What are you doing here though?" Sora asked sweetly but his voice held a slightly cautious note. That was expected. Sora had fought this guy after all. I walked up behind my baby and put my hands on his shoulders to let him know I had his back if anything came up. Sephiroth chuckled to himself and winked at us. I don't know what that meant.
"It seems... My visit wasn't mentioned ahead of time."
His visit. So that means that Cloud knows he's here. Maybe... he's a room mate. There was an extra bedroom down the hall from Sora's and mine. At the thought of his name Cloud suddenly came into the kitchen. He was wearing a black tank top and a pair of grey sweat pants. His skin was slightly moist looking and his hair was, for once, not sticking straight up. He must have just gotten out of the shower.
"Oh... wow.. Hi.." He said timidly. I blinked at his tone of voice. He looked like he'd been caught doing something naughty.
"What are the two of you doing up so early?" He asked surprised and went to the fridge. He pulled out a bottle of water and started to drink it. I thought he was trying to avoid the not so inconspicuous stranger sitting right at the dining table.
Sephiroth tapped his nails on the table and gave Cloud at scolding look.
"You... didn't tell them." He said. It wasn't a question. Cloud lowered his water and looked at Sephiroth. It didn't take me long to figure out what was going on.
2 and 2 were starting to come together.
"Cloud... you were meeting Cloud at 7th Heaven last night." Cloud turned to look at me with a slight smile and a nod.
"Yeah... I had to... keep it under raps until I was ready to tell you about us."
Sora and I gaped.
"About... You two... are... together?" Sora squeaked. I wanted to laugh. No fucken way... Cloud was a lucky bastard.
"...Ah.. heh.. Yeah." He said and took a big gulp of his water. Why was he acting so ashamed. He was a grown up. He could do what he wants.
"How long?" Sora asked... a bit rudely actually and put a hand on his hip. Cloud took another longer gulp of his water. Sephiroth was shaking his head smiling slightly.
"A month." The older man said. I made a sound in my throat as a reply. I couldn't think of what to say. Sora on the other hand was full of questions.
"He's your light?"
I went blank again. I didn't know what they were talking about anymore. Cloud seemed to know exactly what Sora meant and he went to stand next to Sephiroth. He rested his hands on the mans shoulders and looked down at him with the most lovingly adoring expression I'd ever seen.
"Yes." Cloud said. I rolled my eyes. No one had answered my question yet.
"So.. why is he here?" I asked again. Cloud smiled up at me.
"I brought him here to meet you guys. I was just... planning on doing it a little later today though. I hadn't been expecting you guys to be up so early."
Cloud leaned down and gave Sephiroth a kiss on the cheek and I felt jealous for some reason. Sephiroth ran his hand up Clouds bare arm before he said.
"I should get going. I have to be at the office by eight." He stood and pushed in his chair. Sora took a step back and bumped into me for some reason. He looked at me with a worried glance. I mouthed the word 'what?' down at him. He didn't say anything but he kept glancing between me and Sephiroth.
What the hell was up with him doing that?
"Later then?" Cloud said softly. He looked into Sephiroth's eyes as the man felt around in his pocket and then pulled out his cell phone. Oh yeah.. Sephiroth was really tall. At least 6 feet. Cloud had to stand on his toes to kiss him on the lips.
"Later." Sephiroth purred and ran his finger tips across Clouds cheeks before he walked to the front door. I think all three of us were completely transfixed on his back side. He pulled on his long leather black trench coat and gloves then pulled his ponytail from inside his coat collar. Cloud made a musing sort of sound in his throat and the question of had Sephiroth and Cloud slept together yet crossed my mind. Well.. if Cloud hadn't fucked Sephiroth yet... something was really wrong. With both of them... Kidding.. I'm kidding.
Sephiroth gave us all a slight smile as he opened the door.
"Ciao." He breathed and left.
The door closed with a soft click and the room went silent. I was itching to ask Cloud a truck load of questions. But something kept me from asking them. It wasn't my business nor my right to pry into his personal business. I'm just glad he wasn't chasing after Leon anymore.
"He seems very nice. I like him." Sora said softly as he took a seat at the dining table. Cloud smiled at Sora's approval of his new lover. I shrugged. Why would my opinion matter.
"What.. do you think of him Riku?" Cloud asked me. I frowned and bit my lip. What to say. Well Cloud. He's an absolute joy to look at. You couldn't have found a better guy in all the galaxy. You're a lucky son of a witch. Hmmm
"He seems cool." That was good enough. Cloud smiled slightly.
"You know.. he told me he talked to you a bit last night." When Cloud said last night he put emphasis on the word. He was hinting at something else. Of course I knew what that was. I'm not about to talk about it.
"Yeah... so." I shrugged and turned to leave the kitchen. I wasn't going to give Cloud a chance to ask anything else. Sora seemed confused at my rude exit but he didn't seem to want to get involved.
"I'll start breakfast. Toast and eggs okay?" I heard him ask Cloud. I was just lingering in the hallway, not going back to our room. Cloud took a moment to respond.
"That's fine... Thanks." I know he was still watching the hallway .
"I'm going to go finish dressing." He said and started to make his way to the hall. Time for me to go.
"Riku."
Damn!
I paused in mid-step to turned to look at Cloud. He was eyeing me warily from the hallway entrance. I could hear water running in the kitchen so I knew Sora wouldn't over hear.
"About last night." He started.
I sighed. Fine... better to get this over with.
"What about it?" I groaned and leaned against the wall. I felt suddenly tired.... well... I'd been tired before this had all started. I wanted nothing more then to sleep now. Cloud walked up a little closer to me and leaned against the opposite wall. He had this big brotherly expression his face that was basically asking me to tell him what happened. I didn't say anything. Cloud had been the one to start this anyway. I gave this expression that said "Well?" in a slightly annoyed manner.
Cloud sighed and pursed his lips before he said.
"Aeris told me. About what Leon did to you and Sora."
AERIS DID WHAT!?
I kept my cool but my eyes went to the floor. Oh my god... he knew. I frowned in slight anger. Oh, now Aeris wanted to tell someone our little story.
"Why didn't you guys just tell me."
Why did people always ask that question? They made it sound like it was something that you could just come out right and say with no reservations. We weren't talking about the weather or how nice someone's garden looked. We were telling them about us being raped.
"Stupid question...." Cloud muttered to himself and ran his fingers through his hair. I suddenly felt bad for keeping it from him. But... I thought for some reason he'd go ballistic and try to go and murder Leon. I wanted him too. But I'd been scared for his life as well.
"....It's not.. something you talk about." I finally said. Cloud gave me an understanding look but his expression soon turned to face that told me that was no excuse at all.
"Riku. You told me you were gay. I think that's... kind of hard to talk about too you know."
Cloud was right. But I hadn't told him I was gay. He'd walked in on Sora and me about to kiss. I couldn't lie about my sexual preference after that.
"And did I ridicule you?"
I closed my eyes. How could he? He was gay too.... But he was right. I got nothing but support and honesty from him when I came out. Having him be there when I told the others made it so much easier. Clouds always excepted my life style.
"I was..." I ran a hand over my face. "I was afraid of what you'd do. And I was afraid of what Leon said he'd do if I told. I didn't want you getting involved..." I lowered my head slightly.
Clouds hands were suddenly on my chin and he was gently tipping my head up so I could look at him. His smile was so sincere that I felt my heart lift slightly from it. God... people just... needed to be nice like him. More people did.
"When I took you and Sora in, I wanted to get involved. The two of you are like brothers to me. If... you guys were ever hurt.. I don't know what I'd do. And now that I find out you have been hurt... Riku... I want to kill Leon.. you just don't understand how much it pained me to me to hear you and Sora's secret from Aeris."
I frowned. My secret... I hadn't once told Aeris I'd been raped too.
"She suspected. She told me that's why you were so mad. Because you'd been through it as well. She's very worried about you." Cloud let go of my face and backed away.
"You're not fired by the way."
I smiled... just slightly. Aeris was either too damn nice or she just really understood what was going on. At that moment my anger towards her disappeared and I was glad she had finally told. Now that someone I trusted knew about it, things would get better.
Right?
"Do you want to go the police?" Cloud asked me after a moment. He was motioning for me to follow him to his room. I did and lingered in the doorway while he continued to get dressed. You know... Cloud has really nice muscular arms.
"...With what evidence." I sighed and shrugged. "I mean... sure.. I can say all I want that Leon raped Sora and me. But the police aren't going to do anything about it without any evidence pointing to him." So basically that idea was shot to hell. It had been for a long time.
"Maybe not." Cloud said softly and pulled on a gray hooded sweater. It had white stripes going down the sleeves. I couldn't help but wonder if maybe Cloud was about to go running or something. I was curious as to how there could still be evidence of what Leon had done to me from over a month ago.
"On your clothes... or the sheets maybe..." Cloud turned to look at me and I was suddenly aware of what he was talking about. Oh god... he was right. After I'd climbed into bed that night... I woke up and found blood... and other stuff all over the sheets. I remember I just snatched them off and threw them into the corner of the room. I was going to burn them... but I'd never gotten around to it. Would they really still be there... Not that I wanted to see them. But maybe...
Oh no...
I gave Cloud a frightened look and he tilted his head.
"That means... we have to go back to that house..." I whispered. No way in Hell! I refuse! Absolutely Not! Nah ah! No way! NO! I wasn't going back.... he'd be there... I know he would be.
"I know you're scared. But.... I can go alone if you want. Just tell me where the sheets are." Cloud was rubbing my shoulder in a soothing manner. I leaned into him and put my head on his shoulder. It felt nice to be loved. Cloud would really go back there. All alone to get that disturbing bit of evidence for me. All so he could help and make things better.
I know now why Sora loves him so much.
"...I don't know..." I looked at him. Wow... Cloud had pretty eyes. He was smiling at me. A reassuring smile saying he would make things okay. With all the power he had he would find a way.
"If we do this... do you think they would catch him."
Cloud nodded a gave me a determined face. "Even if they don't, I'll catch him myself. I won't let him hurt the two of you again. I wish I'd known sooner... god.. it eats me up knowing..." Cloud paused and suddenly pulled me into a hug. I was surprised for a moment at his sudden compassion and just stood there limply.
"Don't be afraid okay. Leon won't take away your right to live happily. I won't let him. I'll help you and Sora get through this."
I finally hugged him back. I think I'm starting to love Cloud to. He's like a guardian angel. He really is.
"Thank you." I whispered and pulled back from him. "Thank you." And I smiled a real smile.
Cloud grinned at me and rumpled my hair slightly. ..No one had ever done that to me before.
"No problem."
I let my arms drop from his sides and leaned against the door.
"Tomorrow then?" I said. Cloud nodded.
Tomorrow.
----------
(Aeris)
----------
I felt so bad for everything I'd done and kept secret. I was so wrong for not doing anything sooner. How could allow such terrible things to happen to such wonderful sweet boys. They didn't deserve that.. and it kills me to know I was apart of their suffering.
I'm a horrible person. Riku was right. How could I call myself Sora's friend when I kept such a dark secret hidden. I should have gone to the police right away. I should have taken Sora in... But I didn't...
I was scared... I really was. But I was willing to be scared and hurt for Sora. All had to do was ask... no wait... he shouldn't have had to ask. I should have forced him to come live with me. I should have when I'd had the chance.
Riku had so much anger in his heart towards me now. I didn't blame him and I wasn't mad at him. I'd deserved that scolding. I just wish there was some way I could apologize to him now. Although.. I don't deserve forgiveness.
I wonder if he'll come back to 7th Heaven...
I finally told Cloud. I couldn't take it anymore. After what Riku had said and my own guilt. It was time someone else knew. Someone stronger. If I couldn't do anything about this, I knew that Cloud could. And that he would. Surprisingly he took the news quietly. He just listened to me. I was sobbing my eyes at. He held me and told me not to worry, that he would talk to Riku and Sora once he got the chance. I hope that chance was soon. I really wanted to help out now... in anyway. Even if I become Riku's main person to yell at. He needs to get all of the anger out... He really does.
I'm glad Sora had told him...
It was going on ten pm. I'd just finished locking up 7th Heaven. We'd been dead slow today. The night had seemed to drag on for hours and I was so glad to be going home. I wrapped my pale pink scarf around my neck and pulled on my gloves. The weather was ice tonight. We had some snow flurries to. I shuddered slightly and started to make my way down the street from the restaurant. There were few people out tonight. It was because it was so cold. The temp had dropped drastically since earlier today. I hugged myself and continued on. I had to make a stop and the convenience store on my way home to pick up some things.
A little bell rang as when I pushed open the door to the little store. The bright fluorescent lights blinded me for a second. It was really dark and gray out tonight. I took a breath and picked up a little shopping basket when I made my way down the household items isle. I noticed the store was empty other than for me. The clerk smiled at me from behind his desk.
"It's a little late to be shopping isn't it Miss Gainsborough?" He said. I smiled sweetly at him and shook my head.
"Oh no, I just got off of work. Had to grab a few things." I eyed a few various brands of dish detergent before I moved onwards. I was standing in front of the aerosol scented air fresher section. I pulled out a piece a paper and skimmed it. Hmm... I was out of cat food. That's where I went next. I grabbed a small bag of Meow Mix and some canned 9 lives before I went on. Laundry detergent was next on my list. I absently noted the bell from the door ring again but didn't pay it any mind. Looks like I wasn't the only one shopping late.
Next.... Oh what's this... Half off on all red stamped items. Hmmm....
I saw the other customer that had entered the store out of the corner of my eye. They had their hood up and their head tilted slightly down so I couldn't see a face. They were in the medicine section... which is where I had to go next. I started to feel uneasy for some reason. Okay... just walk around them. I made my way over to the medicine isle. The hooded person was tapping various pain killer brand boxes with there gloved hands. When I walked behind them they paid me no mind. I skimmed the medicine. Lets see...
The strange person knocked over a box of Tylenol. I smiled and reached down to get it as they did. My hand reached it first and I proceeded to pass the box to them.
"Here you go." I said. The person wouldn't look at me as I handed them their dropped item. I didn't get a thank you either. I noted to scent of a mans cologne when the stranger brushed by me. So it was a man.
"..um.. You're welcome.." I said. My feeling of uneasiness was stronger now. I glanced at my list and noted I just had a few more things to grab. I had the most important ones already though. I always wrote what I needed most importantly first on the list. It was time to pay for my things and go. I walked quickly up the cashiers desk and put my things on it so they could be rung up. The clerk was smiling at me again.
"You're a brave Miss Gainsborough." He said. The clerk was a young man by the way. He always called me by my last name, even though I'd told him Aeris was fine. His attempt at a light conversation wasn't welcome but I really wanted to go.
"Yes well, I have to be. This is my city just a much as it is anyone else's."
The boy nodded and bagged my things. He turned to type in something on his computer before he said.
"Your total is $12.50." I handed him and $20 dollar bill. He punched it in and was getting my change.
"$12.50 of twenty..." The clerk said to himself and handed me my bills and 2 quarters.
"$7.50 is your change." He tore off the receipt and put in one of my bags. "Have a nice evening...." He paused and licked his lips. "Um... Miss Gainsborough..?" He started I looked up at him while I was putting my money in my purse. He gave me a shy smile.
"Are.. you sure you'll be okay walking home alone? I can call a cab if you want."
I smiled again and picked up my bags. "Oh no, don't go out of your way. I'll be fine dear." I soothed and put my hand over his for a second to insure him of that. He blushed.
"Well.. okay... Be careful." He called after me as I left. I didn't look back but gave a slight wave. Once I was outside again I looked anxiously around. The streets were getting darker. A few neon lights flickered here and there and it was snowing heavily now. I'm glad I'd worn boots. Squaring my shoulders I continued on my way home.
It was only a few blocks away. I'd be fine.
*shaky breath*
I kept looking behind me on my trek home. My 6th sense was screaming for me to run. But I could barely walk straight in all of this snow. I was regretting not letting Tim, that's the store clerks name, call that cab. But I only had one more block to go. I put both of my bags in one hand so I could reach inside my purse for my keys. I stumbled in a step and nearly went down into the snow.
"Darn it.." I groaned and felt around in my purse. My fingers were stiff from being cold. I'd only had on some thin gloves instead of my hand made mittens. It was hard to feel anything in my purse. I heard the jingle of my keys and wrapped them in my fist as I walked on. I just had to turn a corner and I'd be home. A gust of wind hit me hard in the face and I took a clumsy step back and shielded my eyes. My keys slipped from my fingers and plumped into the snow.
This... was just not my night...
I couldn't tell where they'd fallen. So I dug around in the frosty white fluff for a few moments. My coat sleeve had risen up so snow was getting on my bare skin and into my gloves. I just couldn't feel my fingers at all anymore. I sniffled and blinked against the cold wind.
"Where.... are they.." I wanted to home so badly. I was about to give up and just make my way on home... I'd just have to break in... But I took a step and kicked my keys out the snow. I laughed beside myself and picked them up.
Yes!
I started to jog then and reached my doorstep with no further incidents. I managed to get the key into the hole to unlock the door even though my hands were shaking uncontrollably. I pushed into the kitchen and closed the door behind me and made sure to lock the dead bolt. The warmth from the house was so wonderful on my frost ridden face. I sighed and turned on the kitchen light.
Ahh it was good to be home.
I brushed snow off of my hood and shoulders before stomping snow and frost off of my boots and stepped out of them on the welcome mat. My feet were so numb that the floor felt strange under my socked feet. I sat my groceries on the counter top and started to remove my coat.
"Mittens. *tsk tsk* Here kitty, kitty." My little white kitten came bounding around the corner, his bell collar jingling merrily.
"There you are." I kneeled down and pulled the ball of fur into my arms. He felt so nice against my cold skin. He was so warm and soft. I kissed his forehead and he started to purr loudly.
"I brought you something." I chirped and lifted Mittens into my arm to dig around in my bags. I found the canned cat food.. and noted it was really cold. Probably frozen. I bit my lip.
"Well, lets fix that." I said to Mittens and put him on the counter to walk around. He kept trying to rub his head against me whenever I reached past him. I took a saucer and dumped the frozen chicken flavored food onto it. It was rock hard. Mittens started licking at it.
"Ah ah. Hold on now. Let me warm it up." I tapped his nose and he meowed. I put the plate of cat food into the microwave for a few seconds and let it thaw. Mittens was watching the plate go round and round in the microwave. That made me laugh. I was putting on a pot of tea to warm myself up. When the microwave beeped I went and pulled out the saucer of cat food and mashed it up with a fork before sitting it on the floor. Mittens leapt from the counter top and went to scarf down his food.
I was still freezing so I went to take a nice hot shower before I settled down to sip my tea and maybe curl up with a book. The tea kettle was whistling gently once I'd made my way back to the kitchen in my pajamas, my hair wrapped up in a towel. Mittens had curled up on his bed next to the stove. I put away all of the things I'd bought and poured myself a cup of green tea. It was about midnight when I glanced at the clock over the stove.
It was late. Maybe I should just go to bed.
Oh... I have to check my phone for messages. So I made my way with my tea in hand on a saucer the living room I sat down my warm drink and tapped the button on the phone to check my messages. The little electronic voice told me I had 4. I hit play so I could listen to them.
"Hey Aeris, it's Yuffie. I was calling see if we were still on for our shopping spree tomorrow. If you get this message after 8 I won't be home so just hit me back on my machine okay. Luv ya!"
I smiled at Yuffie's exuberant tone. I could just see her face as she spoke those words. I would call her in the morning. Next message.
"Aeris this Cloud. I'm going to tell Riku and Sora tonight. I don't know what'll happen after that. I'll keep you posted. Later."
I pursed my lips. Oh... I hope things go well. I'd call Cloud in the morning for an update too. Message number 3.
"It's Cid. I'll be by on Thursday to put sealant on your windows. I told you to do this before it snowed girl. See you soon. Highwind out."
I laughed softly. Cid was such a gruff sweet person. Oh... I forgot to pick the sealant glue up... another thing to do in the morning. Last message.
I hit the play button and nothing came on. No voice, no background noises... Just silence. I frowned and was about to hit stop when a soft but deep voice came on.
"So you know. Well, what are you going to do about it." I paused, trying to place the voice. It sounded slightly muffled. The message went on after a moment.
"You shouldn't have walked home alone."
Click.
The message stopped and I felt my heart constrict in fear. Oh my heavens... I noted that the messages time was from barely half an hour ago. This man must have called while I was in the shower. I could only think... it had been the man from the store... but how did he have my number? Was he a customer at the restaurant? He'd have gotten it off of my business cared. Oh dear...
*Ding dong*
I whipped around so quickly I bumped the table next to me and knocked over my tea. It splashed to the carpet but the glass cup and saucer didn't break. I pulled the towel off of my head and started bolting my poor white carpets to save them from the tea stain. The door bell rang again and I tried to ignore it. Who was that at this time of night. My instinct told me not to open it....
*Ding dong*
Whoever it is knew I was home... I paused in my scrubbing and stared at the door.
*Ding dong*
I stood, the tea soiled towel still in my hand. My breath came out shuddery when the door bell rang again. "Just go away..." I breathed and looked around. I needed something... anything. I picked up my cordless phone and put my finger over the 911 speed dial button. Just in case...
My hair hung damp and wavy at my waist as I went slowly to the door. I tried to peek out from the window but my porch light wasn't on. I pressed against the door and said softly.
"Who is it?"
There was no answer for a moment.
"You know."
I looked upward and prayed silently. It was Leon. What did he want at this time of night? I didn't feel much better knowing it was him behind the door though. At least it was someone that I knew. I made sure the chain was locked before I pulled open the door just a hair. I peeked out and the bitter air hit me in the eye. I blinked before I asked.
"Do you know what time it is?" Leon shrugged under his hood. His face looked cold and his cheeks were red.
"Thought I'd drop by."
I made a suspicious face. Something about all of this wasn't right. Leon wasn't the type to just drop by. He and I weren't even friends like that. I frowned at Leon and he stared coldly back at me.
"Drop by... for what?"
Leon blew a breath of frosty air. I noticed it was snowing heavily again. Leon looked really cold. Oh well...
"To talk." He said stiffly. He was either getting annoyed or freezing. Probably both. I was getting chills from the cold air that was managing to slip in the crack from the door. Leon was staring to aggravate me.
"Talk...? Leon w...w...what do y...y...you want.t.t.t.t....?" I chattered. I'd meant to ask it in a huffy tone. But I was so cold now that it came out meek and broken. Leon put his gloved hands in his pocket and shivered.
"Have you seen Riku and Sora?"
I blinked. His tone... sounded... concerned.
"I haven't seen them for awhile... Any idea where they could be?" Leon's blue eyes held a hint of something dark when he'd asked that. I went on alert. Since when did he worry about other people? And after what he'd done to Sora and Riku... this was all very wrong.
"No I don't. You should go home before you get sick." I said, trying to sound truthful and worried for his health. I didn't want him getting suspicious. I started to close the door.
"Good night Leon." He was glaring at me. I ignored him and kept shutting the door. He put his hand up to stop me. I frowned harder.
"It's late okay. Good night." I hissed.
"Where are they?" Leon demanded softly. He now had his foot jammed into the small opening in the door. I pushed against it as to not allow him anymore room. I knew I was smashing his foot but he showed no signs of pain.
"I said I don't know." I growled. I was about to hit the 911 button. Leon lowered his head slightly and smiled.
"I cut your phone line."
I gaped and hit the button. Nothing happened. The phone didn't even come on. I looked disbelieving at Leon. What was his problem. Why was he doing this.
"Please... just go home." I pleaded. My voice was quivering with fear and I know Leon could hear it. He shook his head.
"Open the door Aeris." Leon's tone was threatening. I pushed harder against the door.
"No! Leon... please just go away!" I was scared now. Leon wanted to know where Riku and Sora where. I wasn't going to tell him at all.
"You shouldn't have walked home alone." Leon breathed into the crack in the door. I backed away and glanced at the phone message from half any hour ago.
Leon had been in the store with me.
"Why do you want to know where Riku and Sora are?" I asked hastily. I was breathing fast out of fear. I had to stall for time. I had to think of a way to get out of here. Leon couldn't fit his head into the door so he pulled his foot back and said.
"You know why."
I got angry. "You're a sick terrible person for what you did! How could you hurt them like that!?" Tears welled in my eyes and I brushed them away. God... what am I going to do...
"I have my reasons. Where are they." Leon asked again.
"I don't know." I huffed.
"Yes you do. Just tell me and I'll leave you alone." He went silent, waiting for my reply.
"Go to Hell!" I hissed. Leon pulled the door closed just slightly. I was about to run over and slam it closed and lock the dead bolt when he suddenly rammed it. The chain bent and broke and he walked in slowly.
"Now what where you saying?" He asked softly and let down his hood. I ran and he followed. I'd managed to get to my bedroom and almost slam the door before he shoved it open. I went flying to floor and hit it hard on my backside. Leon shook his head and stomped in. I back up on my hands to get away.
"You little Bitch." He hissed and grabbed me by my hair to pull me up. I cried out and slapped him in the face. He laughed and tossed me onto the bed.
This... had to be a nightmare.
"I tried to be nice about all of this." Leon breathed. He was slightly out of breath. "Is that all you've got?" He taunted. I was so scared I couldn't breath properly. Leon grabbed my leg and pulled me down to him before he climbed on top of me and gripped my wrists. Tears were pouring freely from my eyes and I silently pleaded for him not to hurt me.
"Oh, don't cry sweetheart." He teased and brushed a hand across my breast down to my
thigh. I chocked on a sob.
"Please..." I begged. I was shivering I was so terrified. Leon put his cold hand under my shirt and pushed it up He ran his hand over my stomach and stopped just below my breasts. I flinched away from discomfort and bitter frost of his touch.
"I don't worry. I'm not going to fuck you." He leaned into my ear. "Women like you aren't my type." He kissed my cheek. I glared through my tears and looked him in the eye when he pulled back.
"NO! Innocent little boys are! You sick BASTARD!" Leon slapped me with his free hand. I bit my tongue.
"You've got jokes." He reached into his pocket and sat back. I was watching him out of the corner of my eye. He was staring at me through a slight annoyed gaze.
"Here's the deal." He pulled something out of his pocket. I couldn't tell what it was. "You tell me what I want to know." He flicked his wrist and something cold was running up my belly. Something cold and sharp.
"And I won't gut you like a fish."
I started to cry harder.
"Why.. are you doing this?" I questioned sadly. Leon was an evil terrible man. A rapist... and now maybe a killer. I didn't care what he did to me... I wasn't telling him where Riku and Sora where. I owed them this...
"Why?" Leon repeated and tilted his head. "I don't know.... because I can." He pressed the knife into my skin and I felt it break slightly. It stung.
"Now stop stalling and tell me where they are."
"I don't know."
Leon put the blade in my face. His expression was blank but I could tell he was getting tired of me. He'd kill me at this rate.
I was scared...
"Maybe I won't kill you. I'll just cut up this pretty face of yours." He slashed my cheek with his knife. The pain registered so quickly that I could barely cry out. Leon laughed slightly and pointed the knife back in my face.
"Ready to tell me now?"
I panted and swallowed hard. My cheek was throbbing with pain. I couldn't believe this was happening. My god.. what did Leon want Riku and Sora so badly for? He'd hurt them already. They were scarred for life. What else did he want?
Oh knew... Leon was afraid they'd tell and he'd be caught. He wanted to silence them.
He wanted to kill them.
"Well?!" Leon yelled for the first time. "I'm tired of fucking around with you. Either you answer or I cut your damn throat!" I flinched away from him. And I noted for the first time in my mind that... even if I told Leon Sora and Riku where with Cloud.. I had no idea where Cloud lived. He'd never told me or anyone. I just know he lived downtown.
"With Cloud." I said finally. Leon blinked a few times. I guess that was the last thing he'd expected to hear.
"Where does he live?" Leon asked hastily. I wanted to laugh at him.
"I don't know. Honestly. Cloud's never told me where he lives. I swear to you!" I was telling the honest truth. Leon seemed lost for a moment as his face registered my words as true.
"You were sleeping with Cloud and you don't even know where he lives." I commented offhandedly to Leon. He glared at me but didn't do anything more. His anger seemed to be rising though.
"Then you'll call him and find out." He finally said. I blinked back more tears. I was a little happy I had some slight control over this whole situation.
"You cut my phone line." I reminded him bitterly. He growled at hit me again after letting go of my wrists.
"Fuck.." He murmured. He still had his knife pointed at me. I looked around for something to grab and hit him with. All I had in reach was a pillow. That wouldn't do anything but stun him and make him mad. Leon had his back to the door and I looked there. My eyes widened when I saw a shadow lurking there. I couldn't who it was though. The person walked into the dim light of the window and I saw it was Tim from the store.
Praise the Heavens.
"You're afraid of him aren't you? Of Cloud?" I started talking to keep Leon from suspecting anything. Tim snuck up and grabbed one of my lamps with out make a sound. He kneeled down to unplug it. I'm glad it hadn't been on or he'd be given away. Leon didn't seem to like my comment and he grabbed my throat. I gasped in pain and surprise.
"Afraid?! I'm not afraid of anyone!" He hissed into my face.
"But.. you're afraid of Riku and Sora telling... So that makes you afraid of them..." I chocked. Tim was just on Leon and the crazed bastard hadn't noticed him.
"Fuck those little snot faced brats. When I find them I'll rape them again and fucking slit their throats and toss them in the river." My eyes widened at Leon. He wasn't kidding.
"They can meet you at the bottom." He breathed and reached back with his knife to stab me. I gasped and Tim cracked the lamp across Leon's head. Leon groaned loudly and stumbled off of me. The lamp hadn't broken so Tim hit Leon again. Blood was pouring down Leon's forehead now. But he was still standing. Tim held up his hands and the still undamaged lamp.
"I called the police. They'll be here any minute." Tim said rushed and pulled out his cell phone to prove Leon that what he'd said was true. Leon ran a hand over his forehead and looked at the blood on his finger tips. Sirens started blaring outside not to far away. Leon gave Tim and me a long sidelong glare before he fled the room. I heard the front door slam behind him.
Oh my god... he was gone....
"Miss Gainsborough!" Tim yelled worried and ran to me. He sat my lamp down on the floor as I sat up. I pulled my shirt down and cradled my cheek. Tim pulled his coat off and put it around me.
"I'll get a wet towel." He told me and went to search for the bathroom. I don't know why he'd decided to come by but I'm so grateful he had. It was a blessing was all I could say. When the police finally skidded to a halt in their cars at my home about 6 of them came in. A women officer looked me over and told me I needed snitches on my face. I'd have a scar. It didn't mind. I'd have taken more to keep Riku and Sora safe. Tim stayed with me the whole time and let me use his phone to call Cloud. I wanted to call Cid too.. but he didn't know what was going on. Best to not involve him. The police told me they didn't see Leon or any other suspicious character lurking about. I started to cry out the fact that he'd gotten away.
So close...
Tim had told me he'd been worried about if I'd gotten home safely not and that Leon, the hooded man in the store, had left soon after I did and followed me home After Tim had closed up the store he walked down my block to see if the lights were on. He said he'd seen the front door wide open and came in to investigate. I was so happy and grateful he'd done that. But I know feared for his life. Leon could come after him now. I told Tim this and he was escorted home by the police. They would handle it from there.
I asked about my cat and a police officer brought him to me. They asked me what Leon looked like and other various questions and why had he attacked me. I hesitated in telling them. I didn't know what to say. If I told them the truth they'd know about Riku and Sora's rapes. I didn't know if I should talk about that to them yet.
"He..." I started and that's when Cloud walked into the room.
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(Riku)
----------
Sora and I were in bed when the phone rang. Sora had already fallen asleep and I was just about to follow him into dream land when the blaring of the cordless started. I rolled over and put my arms around Sora's waist and snuggled up to him. I was dead set on ignoring the phone. Who the hell calls at this time of night? Something told me it could be important or an emergency. I was about to reach over and pick it up when the rings abruptly stopped. Cloud must have answered it or the person had stopped calling. I closed my eyes and sighed. Sleep had caught me already. I was just dozing off when Cloud suddenly burst into our room.
"Riku, Sora!" He yelled. I jumped and turned to look at him. Sora was startled out of his sleep and looked wide eyed over his shoulder at Cloud.
"What..." I groaned. My heart was beating a mile a minute. Cloud was pulling on clothes for some reason and I felt myself getting worried. Sora sat up and hugged onto my arm.
"Cloud... what's wrong?" He whispered in fear. Cloud pulled down his turtle neck.
"It's Aeris. She's been hurt." Sora and I both gaped in shock. Oh my god... what's happened?
"Is...Is she alright?" I asked concerned. I may have been slightly mad at Aeris, but I didn't want her hurt in anyway. Cloud shook his head slightly and I took a sharp breath.
Oh no..
Sora was crawling out of bed.
"She couldn't tell me much over the phone. I'm going to her place now. The police..."
I cut in. "Police!? It's that bad?" I stood up. This was all a bad dream. Would the drama ever end. I hoped and prayed silently that Aeris was alright. I would never forgive myself if she was seriously injured.
"Yes. Look, Seph will be here to get me in a few minutes. You two stay here and keep the phone close to you." I sat down shakily on the bed. Sora was up though.
"But.... we want to come with you to make sure Aeris is...."
"NO!" Cloud yelled. Sora flinched away. I looked wide eyed at Cloud for his sudden outburst. He looked nervous, worried, angry, and scared all at the same time. What had happened to Aeris that was so bad that we couldn't come? We just wanted to see if she was okay.
"Cloud..." I started. He gave me a grim look. I shook my head in confusion.
"It was Leon..."
Sora and I froze.
"He's looking for the two of you."
Good, Bad? Review please.
Authors Notes: This was nearly 30 pages long. OMG *finger craps*. So Sora knows about Riku's attempt at suicide. What do you think about his reaction? Was he to calm maybe? Riku is on an all out guilt trip now. He's hiding it well though. You'll see in in full force the next chapter. Seph and Cloud's relationship is out in the open. I only slightly hinted at Riku's slowly developing desire for Sephiroth. The tasty bits will show very soon. Cloud knows about Sora and Riku's rape. He took it well huh? Yeah right. *evil grin* New POV. Aeris's little scene was suspenseful huh? This is what happens when I watch Scream 2. Was it good? Aeris had a lot more screen time then I'd normally intended. I feel as though I captured her personality okay though. She's less sweet and innocent to me somehow (she said Bastard, lol!). I like how I made her less damsel in distress when Leon attacked her. She was willing to die to protect Riku and Sora. Don't worry, I'm not going to kill her later. Hmm, what do you guys think about Tim? Where you cheering when he beat the shit out of Leon with the lamp. I was! He's a hero! He wasn't supposed to be important, he didn't have a name until halfway through Aeris's POV and if you guys want I'll use him in the story again.
Anyway, next chapter. Clouds rage towards Leon is slowly building over what he did to Sora and Riku, and now Aeris and he goes with Riku back to the 'abandoned house' in district 3 to retrieve some evidence. A trip to the police station leads to nowhere. Riku has a panic attack when he's alone with Sora and does something awful (much much worse then a slap). He runs away from home. Sora tells Cloud and Cloud has Seph keep in eye out for Riku. He's discovered by Sephiroth on a bridge over looking the river. Riku tries to jump. Seph talks him out of it and takes Riku home. Riku does something bad with Seph. Sora is going crazy with worry. Riku runs away again. He's gone for 4 days. A boys body washes up on the river bank and a phone call at 2 am is made to Sora.
(Just let all of that sink in now.)