DISCLAIMER: 'Repercussion' is a story based on characters and situations from Kidou Senshi Gundam Seed which is a property of Sotsu Agency, SUNRISE and MBS. This work is non profited and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended. Unless specified, all materials in the web is work done by HERMIT JUNCTION. Please do not use without permission any text or artwork.

WARNING: Text and all related materials are rated R/M and may mild strong language, violence, cruelty, explicit adult content, rape, death and nudity unless otherwise stated. Please do not read if you are underage or maybe offended by such material. Spoilers for Gundam Seed.

NOTE: This fanfiction disregards the plotline of the original series' sequel Gundam Seed Destiny. Please go to gseedaftermath.hermitjunction. net for site hosting of this fic. For Dearka and Miriallia's story, please go to 'GS Aftermath Trilogy I: Rebound'.

Gseed Aftermath Trilogy II:
REPERCUSSION
a hermit junction project

Chapter 5

Exactly forty later, the news that big entrepreneur Karim Persach was shot during one of his hotel openings came blaring over every channel of media. Madge couldn't help but stare at the wide-screen TV before her, her cigarette dangling from her fingers while her son Marni kept yelling 'that's impossible!'

'How the hell did he do it Lain?' Marni demanded, jumping onto the sofa beside Lain who had her eyes on the pistol she was polishing. 'Come on, you've got to know something about the guy!'

'This – I mean – ' Madge stared at Lain in shock. 'Where in the fucking hell did this guy come from? He shot down Karim Persach! Karim Persach! We've been trying to shoot his balls down for three years! Not even Quasim could do the job for God's sake and this pinhead does it in twenty four hours?'

'Who is he Lain? Huh? Who is he?' Marni asked. 'Ma! Make her talk!'

'Who is this guy?' Madge asked, grinding her cigarette into the ashtray beside her. 'You've got to know something about him Lain, don't make a fool out of me.'

'I don't know.' Lain said coldly, running her hand over the barrel of the pistol.

'You don't know him? Rumor says you're the one who brought him here.' Madge argued.

'It wasn't me.' Lain said flatly, eyeing her aunt briefly. 'Novita brought her here.'

Madge rolled her eyes. 'No, I mean, rumor says that bitch found this MacKenzie guy in your apartment. How do you explain that?'

'It's just a rumor.' Lain replied after a few moments of silence. Standing up, she walked towards the kitchen counter of the suite and poured herself a glass of water. 'No big deal.'

'No big deal? No big deal?' Marni screeched, jumping up. 'I'm going to make him my sniper trainer.'

'You're only fourteen Marni.' Lain said sternly, turning around while leaning her back against the counter. 'Guns are not for people like you to play with.

'You're not that old either Lain, you're only seventeen.' Madge said dryly.

Lain eyed him silently.

'I'm old enough!' Marni protested. 'And even if I weren't, after training from him? I'll be a pro in no time. Who cares about age?'

'That is if he can step out of here alive.' Madge muttered, propping her legs over armrest of the sofa she was sitting on.

'What do you mean Ma?' Marni asked, turning around sharply.

Madge gave her son a brief look before staring up at the bright ceiling above her, running one finger over her eyebrow. 'You think I need to shape my eyebrows again Lain? The last bitch who did the waxing almost made my eyebrows lopsided.'

'You shape your eyebrows like every month, aren't you tired of the pain?' Lain murmured, crossing her legs at her ankle. 'I don't do it.'

'That's because you're a natural beauty.' Madge scowled, throwing a glare at Lain. 'Just like your Mother.'

'I'm nothing like my Mother.' Lain scowled curtly, narrowing her amber eyes. 'Don't even compare me with her.'

'Sorry, my fault.' Madge muttered, raising both her hands. 'Hey kid, don't you need to do some physical training?'

'I want to meet this sniper!' Marni protested. 'He'd be coming back any time!'

'Get out before I kick your ass!' Madge screeched, pointing her cigarette at her son.

'Fine.' Marni stuck his middle finger up at his Mother, scrambling out of the room before Madge could even sit up, let alone tell off that disgusting attitude of his son's.

Shaking her head, Lain dropped the glass into the sink and walked back to the sofa.

'Seriously Lain, who is this guy?' Madge asked, sitting up.

'You won't want to know Madge.' Lain said shortly, leaning back against the sofa with her arms crossed. 'Trust me on that.'

'Well I'm telling you, people around here are dying to know.' Madge winked, standing up. She poured herself a glass of whiskey at the bar counter. 'What's with the secrecy anyway?'

Lain shrugged, loading the gun. Raising it, she pointed at the door just in time for it to slide open. The man standing there jerked in shock and reached for his shotgun.

'Don't scare the boys like that honey.' Madge smirked, crossing her legs on the stool.

'It's not a real gun.' Lain said flatly, lowering it. 'What do you want?'

'Mr. Herze wants to see you.' The man said. 'Immediately.'

'Tell him I'll be there.' Lain responded, tossing the pistol onto the couch.

'What does he want now? The guy's done the job.' Madge muttered, taking a sip.

'You think he'll let him go like that?' Lain asked in a sarcastic tone. 'He's a cunning old man who has made Nessar what it is now, you really think he doesn't have a plan.'

Madge nodded. 'I bet this plan involves your little sister.'

'That's an understanding.' Lain murmured. Grabbing her white coat from the hanger, she shrugged it on.

'You're not that cold are you?' Madge raised her eyebrows.

Lain looked over her shoulder and smirked. 'You've never been in that God damn room.'

Madge narrowed her eyes with a sly smile. 'Right… have fun kid, I'll catch up with you later?'

Escorted by two other Nessar members, Lain was taken down to the main conference room of Nessar's base located at the hillside of Aprillius One. Ordinary people passing by would think that it was just another ordinary mansion isolated in the artificial greenfields, what they don't know is the exquisite design of the base that extends eighteen meters down underground, equipped with the best facilities and top notch security system. Home to the founder of Nessar and family, this secret base has always been well protected and supplied illegally.

When Lain stepped into the conference room for the second time in three days, she wasn't surprised to find every one there, including Novita who was now sitting beside their Father with a sly smile on her face, flamboyantly dressed as ever. In Lain's opinion, she was a true slut.

'Have a seat Lain.' Herze invited, motioning towards the chair at the far end.

Having no choice, she nodded and sat down. She exchanged glances with Quasim who was sitting across from her before she crossed her arms.

'Bring him in.' Herze ordered through the intercom.

At that, Rusty stepped in escorted by two guards. He was wearing the same clothes he had on two days ago with NSX-551 in one hand. Stepping forward, he set the sniper rifle on the table carefully, giving the scope a playful wipe with two fingers before taking a step back. The job was done in a clean and tidy manner with more than just a hint of relaxation.

'What did you think of the rifle?' Herze asked.

'Tuned to perfection.' Rusty smirked crossing his arms. 'The best I've ever used yet.'

'Because of your skill, this weapon has been pushed to the limit.' Herze smiled. 'You're a rare talent Rusty MacKenzie.'

Rusty bowed, looking at him through his spiky bangs, his light blue eyes darkening. 'I accept that compliment, but I don't think I'm here to just accept this compliment Mr. Herze.'

'I can make something big out of you MacKenzie.' Herze said directly. 'With your skill and attitude, you're going to be of great help to Nessar and I'll guarantee you with more than just a luxurious life. Be a part of Nessar, you won't regret it.'

'And if I refuse?' Rusty raised his eyebrows.

'You'll find yourself unable to leave this building alive.' Herze said shortly, narrowing his eyes.

'You're not really giving me much choice Mr. Van Ness.' Rusty turned his head slightly, closing one eye. 'I'm in need of more than just a luxurious life you know. Besides, I have a background, you sure you can trust me with this?'

Curious to what background he had, the people started a small commotion.

'He used to be a ZAFT soldier.' Novita said loudly. 'An elite.'

'With that said.' Rusty winked at Novita. 'You really think you can trust me? Can you make the other's here trust you. Do you really want to risk Nessar's stability to someone you barely know?' he looked around with a sly smile. 'Nessar isn't ZAFT's best friend you know.'

'What do you propose then?' Herze asked.

'Hey, I'm all heads up about this proposal of yours, I can't go back to being a normal person anyway, let alone rejoin ZAFT. Being here really is no difference to me.' Rusty leaned forward with both hands on the table. 'It's really about you Mr. Ness, it's really your call and your call alone.'

'You really think you trust someone who just walked in Herze?' Giles Van Ness, Herze's younger brother asked, eyeing Rusty.

'But we're in lack of talents like him.' Dires said, bowing his head slightly. 'If only there was a way…' he eyed Novita, who smirked back and him.

Lain frowned as she watched Novita stand up slowly, leaning one hip against the side of the table. 'I've got an idea Dad.'

'Give it to me.' Herze smiled. 'You know I love your ideas.'

'If you want him bounded to Nessar, just find someone to bound him for you.' Novita said, smriking.

Quasim leaned forward, looking up at his sister with furrowed eyebrows. 'You mean…'

'Just marry him to someone here.' Novita eyed the people around the table until she set her sights on Lain who had her eyes closed. 'Someone who has the power and position to control him.'

'You mean you Novita.' Quasim scowled, throwing a glare at Rusty who shrugged.

Herze looked at his daughter with narrowed eyes. 'You really think this is a good idea.' He looked at Rusty.

'Don't look at me, it's your call. Either way, I'm not going to leave this place, it's a matter of whether I'll be alive or dead.' Rusty snarled. 'Frankly, I'd prefer the living over the dead.' He narrowed his eyes slightly to match that sly smirk of his. 'Or maybe the living dead?'

'It is a feasible plan.' Giles nodded, sneering. 'And believe me, this guy's got to have something to make our very own Miss Novita Van Ness horny for him.'

'Thank you.' Novita sneered, shooting a glare at her young uncle.

'If that's the case…' Herze rested his cheek on his palm.

'That will not be the case.' Lain suddenly said, opening her eyes slightly.

Novita raised her eyebrows at her sister. 'You think you have a say on what I want? You do know who you are here right Lain?'

Rusty frowned and watched as Lain stood up, looking at Novita with eyes as cold as frost. 'I'm saying no.'

'You're say no.' Novita crossed her arms. 'What makes you think you can do that. Rusty MacKenzie will be mine whether you like it or not.'

Reaching into her white jacket, Lain pulled out a silver pistol and pointed it at Novita. Before anyone could react, she pulled the trigger, a shot ringing in the room. A wave a gasps and screams were followed by a group of guards rushing in, pointing their shotguns at Lain.

Novita stood there shocked, blood seeping down the side of her ear, a bullet hole in the wall behind her. Smoke came out from the barrel.

'Are you crazy Lain!' Herze bawled, standing up.

'I saved him and he's mine.' Lain said in a low but firm voice. 'You can kill me right now but if you do, you're not going to get the intelligence you wanted so badly.'

'Bitch.' Novita seethed. 'You think you're going to get your way like this? In your fucking dreams!'

'I think I will get what I want, don't you think?' Lain looked at Herze sideways. 'Father.'

'Lower your guns.' Herze commanded. 'What do you want? He's going to be in Nessar whether you like it or not or he's dead.'

Gun still trained on Novita's head, Lain tightened her grip. 'You just want someone to make sure he's on the right tracks, Nessar's tracks. I'll marry him.'

'You?' Dires raised his eyebrows suspiciously. 'You're credibility is a serious case of doubt Miss Lain.'

'It's either that or nothing.' Lain scowled, turning her pistol to Rusty. 'Or I'll kill him right now.'

After a long period of tense silence, Herze finally nodded and sat back down. 'Fine, but you know what the cost is Lain.'

'Of course I do.' Lain said quietly, lowering her pistol. 'You know I always do.'

Dropping her cigarette butt onto the ground, Madge grinded it with her heels, giving it an extra stomp before stepping forward. Having extremely sensitive ears, Rusty turned his head slightly, the wind blowing his spiky red hair into his face.

'Who the hell are you?' Rusty asked, watching Madge lean her back against the railing of the mansion's bare roof.

'And who the hell are you?' Madge shot back, her eyebrows furrowing.

Rusty raised his eyebrows at her. 'You know who I am so back off.'

'I've been wondering what kind of guy would make my little niece interested.' Madge purred, leaning her cheek into her palm. 'I have to say you are a treat Rusty MacKenzie.'

'I'll take that as a compliment.' Rusty muttered, looking out at the green scenery before him.

'The name's Madge.'

'I know.' Rusty said. 'I've heard your name when I was still living with your niece.'

'You lived with my niece.' Madge frowned.

'What? She didn't tell you anything?' Rusty snarled, glaring at her. 'Not a surprise, she didn't even bother to acknowledge me during those fucking meetings.'

Madge lowered her eyes like a panther. 'So someone's being Mr. Cranky pants.'

Rusty stayed silent at the comment.

'I'm curious.' Madge continued. 'Why would the two of you cross paths. I mean, you're a ZAFT soldier while she's… well she's practically a nobody who works for Nessar.'

'Weird huh?' Rusty said sarcastically, turning around. 'Let's just say it's pure coincidence that that little niece of yours saved my ass during one of my first major operation and made me stay in her god damned apartment for ten months straight. Being blind is not a pleasant experience and all I'm grateful about is being able to fuck her.'

Madge couldn't help but frown again. 'You slept with her?'

'Oh yeah.' Rusty sneered, casting a sly look at her. 'Best sex I've ever had, I've been wondering if that's why she almost shot Novita's friggin' ass off.'

Madge looked away. 'She's more than you think MacKenzie.'

'I'm sure.' Rusty jeered.

'No, seriously.' Madge snapped. 'If you can't give her what you want, then leave. I'm sure you have the ability to get the hell out of here alive and in one piece.'

Rusty stared at her for a few moments before looking down. 'If I could give her what she wanted, then I wouldn't be this pissed off.' He sighed and ran one hand through his unruly hair. 'I'm not stupid, I know what I'll be going through if I join Nessar, what they'll want me to do, how they're going to exploit me. I know how they exploit each and every one of you, including you, including Lain.'

Madge couldn't help but feel impressed by Rusty's strong observation. It was true, Herze van Ness never made a losing bet. The stakes may be high but he wouldn't make a transaction that wasn't absolutely lucrative to him. Everyone in Nessar was manipulated by him, exploited by him to his and Nessar's own interest, even his son and two daughters, not to mention his own brothers.

Madge exhaled loudly and took out another cigarette, lighting. Taking a slow drag, she rubbed her forehead. 'She's got a rough life and she's not going to trust anyone. You're not going to change that MacKenzie, trust me. All these years, she's done nothing but receive orders from her Father and it has been a torture, a slow and painful torture. At this day an age, it's hard for kids to live a normal life, even for you.' She eyed Rusty. 'You're no older than twenty.'

'Going on eighteen.' Rusty muttered. 'Never had a normal life and never will have. No one marries at seventeen.'

'You're right, and there's got to be something Novita's crazy about to make her suggest such an absurd idea.' Madge muttered.

'How the hell would I know, I've met her for barely forty eight hours.' Rusty protested. 'What she's like is beyond me.'

'Are you saying you know Lain more.' Madge asked smugly.

'Hey, I'm not someone you can judge by normal standards.' Rusty snapped. 'I've lived with her for almost a year, you really think I'd sit around without knowing who the friggin' hell's around me? Although the worst, I was still an elite. Besides, there's really nothing to do when you're blind.'

Tapping her cigarette over the railing, Madge smirked. 'I like you.'

Rusty rolled his eyes. 'Please, one woman at a time.'

Madge gave him a playful punch in the shoulder. 'Not like that!'

'Oh, you got me worried back there.' Rusty said sarcastically, casting a glare at her.

'I see you have yoru reasons and I'm not going to stop you from marry Lain because she obviously doesn't think it's a bad idea.' Madge rolled her eyes.

'Really?' Rusty pursed his lips.

'Well…' Madge shrugged. 'At least she's not going berserk about it.'

'Berserk? Her? Lain Van Ness?' Rusty snorted. 'I'd give you a thousand dollars if you can get her berserk.'

'You do know her.' Madge sneered, flicking her cigarette out into the air.

'That's called littering.' Rusty said flatly.

'Yeah yeah, whatever.' Madge looked at him sideways. 'Do you know what Lain wants Rusty?'

Rusty just looked back at her with meaningfully.

Sighing, she stood straight. 'You're not stupid, I know that. Just promise to watch over her. She's not brash yet she has the tendency to hurt herself without thinking through things clearly. Just, try to protect her, okay?'

Rusty looked away. 'I'll try, but I can't guarantee anything.'

Nodding with a smile, Madge turned and headed towards the door, her heels clicking against the ground. 'By the way.' She looked over her shoulders, holding the door open. 'Quasim and I will be your witnesses, you got a ring?'

Rusty widened his eyes at the word 'ring'. At that, Madge shrugged. 'You better think of a good way.'

'Damn it.' Rusty cursed, slamming his fist into the railing as the heavy iron door shut behind him.

Lain van Ness had lived her whole life alone, physically and mentally. Her Mother had never really paid attention to her when she was still a kid and her Father hated her. She'd be sent from one place to another, despised by the people around her. They'd say she's the most hated child of Herze van Ness because her Mother was universally hated by the whole of Nessar. It was true, she was a complete whore and the whole world expected Lain to turn into her Mother. The fact that she was the only legitimate child of Herze Van Ness was also a source of trouble.

She swore to never to step into her Mother's footstep. A lone soul from the day she was born, she had planned on being alone for the rest of her life, a life of vengeance yet Rusty MacKenzie's appearance had ruined this perfect plan of hers. His presence had brought life to that dead apartment of hers and she hated it at first. She hated having someone around her, sensing her every move. It scared her even more when she realized that she had gotten used to his presence. His presence was a comfortable one, a safe one, a sense of security she had lost her whole life.

She had promised herself no strings attached because she had a very complicated background. She did not want Rusty involved in her life because she knew this would happen, if Nessar found out about his existence, they would try to exploit him. He had no idea what life was like working for Nessar and she didn't want Rusty to suffer.

She wanted him to leave, wanted him to forget about her. Why? Why did he have to be so stubborn? Hadn't she made her stance clear? She wanted him out of her life. No matter how good it felt being with him, it was wrong. During those ten months of co-habitation, a voice behind her head told her that it was wrong, it was completely wrong and she had to end it.

She had ended it, but somehow, he came after her. What did he want from her? Why couldn't he have just left? He had the ability to do so, even if Novita had got in the way. Why?

Crossing her arms, Lain looked out the window, seeing her reflection. Rusty was sitting at the mini bar with a glass of whiskey in his hands. He was barely eighteen yet he was drinking, war did force kids to grow into adults, frustrated adults at the least.

This was not the typical wedding night normal couples spent. After the simple ceremony where Quasim and Madge were witnesses, they had returned to Lain's apartment. It wasn't just a simple ceremony, it was a very lacking ceremony. Even the simplest weddings would require the groom and the bridge to dress neatly if not in a suit and a wedding dress, yet when they arrived the church, Rusty was in a T-shirt he had worn over three days and Lain was in a simple tank top and white jeans.

They didn't even have a ring, which surprised the minister but he was willing to continue the ceremony under the threatening eye of Rusty.

She had made the right decision, marrying him. She really had no other choice. If Novita had gotten her way, Rusty would be in very deep trouble and he may never have the chance to leave this hell. Of course the thought that Novita actually wanted to marry Rusty disturbed Lain to no end. Her sister was the whore and had a pretty impressive sex history at the age of seventeen. She knew that when Novita van Ness had her eyes on something, she'd more or less have her way.

Now what? Everything was turned upside down. She wanted him to step out of her life but he had marched right back in. There was a reason behind all this yet Rusty MacKenzie was a total mystery to her now.

'You want to spend our wedding night like this?' Rusty asked, moving his glass on the marble counter.

Narrowing her amber orbs, Lain looked at Rusty in the window's reflection. He had beautiful eyes, just as she imagined, clear and sharp, eyes that belonged to a young soldier.

'Why didn't you leave?' Lain asked, turning around. 'You had a chance and you didn't. I thought I made my point clear enough that day.'

'You mean the day I had my eyes back and saw my stuff lying on the floor beside my bed?' Rusty asked nonchalantly, picking up his glass. 'Including my gun?'

Lain just looked at him.

'You know, I wasn't happy with the tuning.' Rusty continued, looking into his glass.

'Why?'

'Then let me ask you this.' Rusty turned in his stool with his long legs crossed. 'Why did you save me? If you hadn't then I would've died on Heliopolis and you wouldn't be stuck with a situation like this.' He snorted at Lain's stubborn silence. 'Aren't you always the quiet one, never wanting people to know what you think, never wanting to crawl out of that hard shell of yours.'

'You have no idea what it's like to work for Nessar.' Lain scowled.

Rusty shrugged. 'Then I'll just have to start off from square one.'

'What were you thinking?' Lain suddenly shouted.

It was Rusty's turn to stare at her angry form.

Lain felt like screaming, never in her life had she been this emotional and it was all for this man… no this boy before her! What did he want? She already gave him a chance to leave, why did he have to come back and ruin everything?

Tipping the glass of whiskey, Rusty let it fall over the counter. The glass shattered, liquid staining the wooden floor. Looking up, Rusty narrowed his light clear blue eyes at Lain. 'You really don't know do you? Or you know but you don't want to know.'

Lain looked away. 'You don't belong here.'

Seething at the aggravating words, Rusty hopped off the stool. 'If you think I don't belong here, if you think I don't belong with you, then I'll go.'

Lain turned her head sideways, watching Rusty head towards the door.

'You may think I don't belong here,' Rusty paused and shot a glance over his shoulder, 'but I will be a part of Nessar, whether you like it or not.'

Lain felt the anger rise inside. Never in her life had she been this angry, Rusty MacKenzie actually had the ability to make her angry.

Taking deep breaths, Lain walked towards the desk and looked down at their wedding certificate. They were married, with or without a ring, they were married, they had a license. Turning, Lain looked at the shattered glass beside the stool Rusty had sat on a few minutes ago. There was no Rusty MacKenzie anymore, he was dead to the world. He now went by the name Russ Enzia, the trump card and ace sniper of Nessar.

Why did you let this happen? Lain thought to herself, sliding to the floor. You know this isn't the place for him, why? Shaking her head, she pulled her knees to her chest and stared at the door.

She jerked when her cell phone rang in her pocket. Looking down at the number, she didn't know if she wanted to smile or frown.

'Hey.' She answered.

'Hey.'

'Another shot?' The bartender asked, polishing a glass while bobbing his head along with the strong music that ruled the nightclub.

'Why not?' Rusty pushed his glass towards him.

'What's with you pal?' The bartender asked, refilling Rusty's shot glass.

'Don't they say it's either money or women?' Rusty smirked, taking the shot glass from him.

The bartender shrugged. 'It seems like women then.'

Rusty raised his eyebrows. 'Really?'

'Are you new here?' The bartender asked. 'I've never seen you before.'

'Oh, I've been here long enough.' Rusty said, taking a shot. 'I've never been around this area though, never been the type to go clubbing.'

'How old are you kid?' The bartender asked.

Rusty smirked. 'You wouldn't want to know, so don't ask.'

'Hey, give me a beer over here!' someone called two seats from Rusty.

'Right-o.' The bartender shouted, giving the guy a thumbs up. 'Later.'

Smirking to himself, Rusty drained down the rest of his shot glass. Looking around him, he narrowed his eyes at the people dancing to the pounding music, moving their bodies against each other. He couldn't believe this was how he was spending his wedding night.

She really didn't know, didn't want to know why he was doing this to himself. He wasn't stupid. He knew what Nessar was like but he really had no choice. Okay, maybe he had a chance to leave, but he couldn't and wouldn't because of her. And she's pretending she doesn't have a clue.

'Damn her.' Rusty muttered.

'Refill?' The bartender asked, strolling back to him.

'Why not?' Rusty muttered the same response.

'Lighten up dude.' The bartender exclaimed. 'Look around and you'll see plenty of chicks to feed your appetite. Have some hormones for Christ's sake!'

'Who says I'm hungry?' Rusty challenged.

'Well, you may not be hungry, but there's one horny bitch coming over.' The bartender whistled. 'Fine ass, nice tits, hook up with her tonight and you'll find yourself in heaven.'

Looking over his shoulder, Rusty raised his eyebrows at the girl the bartender was talking about.

'Hey gorgeous.' Novita sat herself down on the stool beside him.

Rusty smirked. 'What brings you here?'

'She's a regular dude.' The bartender said. 'How's it going beautiful? A guest of yours?'

'He's my prey.' Novita said, wrapping one slender arm around his neck.

Rusty narrowed his eyes as Novita bit his ear. 'You're married prey.' Novita frowned.

'You're married?' The bartender raised his eyebrows. 'You look no more than twenty.'

'Oh yeah he is.' Novita dug on perfectly manicured hand into Rusty's spikey hair and pushed the side of his head into her chest. 'Today's his wedding night.'

'Oh, don't tell me this is your wife.' The bartender said. 'I mean, it'll be a lost for the community.'

Novita smirked. 'I take that as a compliment.'

'Oh it is a compliment honey.' The bartender returned the smirk, giving her wink.

'So, a regular huh?' Rusty looked up, taking in Novita's scent.

'I never expected to see you here.' Novita murmured, running one finger across his forehead. 'Is my dumb sister giving you a hard time?'

'Oh no, we're having a blast.' Rusty said sarcastically. 'In fact, we had so much fun I had to come out and calm myself down.'

'You're a cute liar Rusty.' Novita laughed.

'My name is no longer Rusty MacKenzie.' Rusty pulled Novita's hand away from his face.

'What may I call you then gorgeous?' Novita asked huskily.

'Russ Enzia.' Pushing her away, Rusty grabbed Novita's wrist and pulled her towards the dance floor.

'I see someone's getting bored with their wedding night.' Novita whispered into Rusty's ears.

'Yeah, so entertain me.' Rusty murmured into Novita's ear, wrapping his arms around her waist. 'Dance with me.'

Surrounded by a sea of people, they moved their bodies against the pounding music, their bodies pressed together. Burying his face into Novita's neck, Rusty let the rubbing of their skin and the strong beats occupy his disturbed mind. He didn't want to know what would come next and he didn't care. If Lain wanted him out of her life then so be it, he wasn't going to give a damn and he was determined to enjoy whatever entertainment he came across. He wasn't going to feel guilty about hooking up with her sister. Novita certainly thought he was treat.

The sexual tension between them started to rise as Novita started to kiss him. Unlike the rough kiss she gave him a few days ago when they first met, this kiss was deep and intense. She wanted to fuck him now.

Breaking the kiss abruptly, it was Novita's turn to lead Rusty off the dance floor.

'Where do you want to go?' Novita asked, jumping into her silver convertible. 'Somewhere close because I'm getting all turned on.'

Rusty shrugged, the bottle of beer he picked up from the counter still in his hands. 'You're call.'

'Your wife's apartment?' Novita suggested, gunning the engine.

Narrowing his eyes, Rusty shot a glance at Novita's sneering face. Boy did she hate Lain, the world's biggest idiot could have figured that out. 'You're call.'

'I'm loving you more and more.' Was Novita's response as she glided out of the nightclub's car park.

Rusty wasn't at all surprised to find the apartment empty when they arrived. Novita proved herself to be one horny woman as she barely waited for him to open the door. Kissing their way to the master bedroom, their clothes were discarded along corridor. Pushing him onto the clean bed that belonged to the apartment's owner, Novita made no delays and stripped what was left from her body. Pulling her down with him, Rusty ran one hand up Novita's leg and made her straddle him.

'I should have married you.' Novita whispered into Rusty's ears as they rocked against each other.

Rusty only responded by grinding himself deeper into Novita's warmth, loosing himself in this mindless sex game. Unfortunately, the more he tried to lose himself, the more he thought about Lain, his wife.

His wife.

'It's not like you Lain.'

Eyeing Quasim behind the steam that brew from her hot chocolate, Lain crossed her legs. 'Not like me why?'

Quasim shrugged. 'You know, taking in a guy, marrying him, shooting Novita's ass off.'

'You don't know me Quasim, that's why you think it's not me.' Lain responded, taking a sip from her brew.

'You're right, nobody knows you, not even yourself.'

Lain laughed shortly. 'You're probably right.'

'What are you doing to yourself Lain?' Quasim asked softly. 'You can't blame me for asking this question because it's obvious that something is going on between the two of you.'

'Is this why your buying me coffee?' Lain asked in a low voice.

'Hot chocolate.' Quasim corrected dryly. 'May I also remind you that you're spending your wedding night out with your brother.'

'You're not my brother.' Lain muttered.

'But you're my sister.' Quasim replied promptly.

'We're pathetic, don't you think?' Lain asked sarcastically.

'You're pathetic.' Quasim corrected. 'You're making yourself pathetic by leaving your husband on your wedding night.'

'I didn't leave him, he left me.' Lain said, crossing her arms.

'You made him leave?' It sounded more like a statement than a question.

'Yes, as a matter of fact, I did.' Lain said.

'Why?'

'Why? Because he doesn't belong here.' Lain said curtly.

'And he belongs with Novita?' Quasim raised his eyebrows as Lain widened her eyes. 'You know how that "sister" of ours can get when she sets her eyes on someone. She's been complaining about not having any good men to satisfy her appetite. You practically gift wrapped him and sent him to that horny sister of my mine. Don't forget, Novita wanted to marry Rusty in the first place, you really think she'd let you two live happily ever after?'

'If she wants him, then so be it, I don't care.' Lain muttered.

'Really?' Quasim eyed her.

'Yes.' Lain looked into his eyes. 'Really.'

'You're in love with him.' It was definitely a statement.

Her eyes wavering, Lain suddenly looked away. 'What do you know about me?'

'You're going to find yourself in ultimate hell Lain, trust me.' Exhaling loudly, Quasim stood up and tossed a few dollars onto the coffee table. 'This treat's mine, I'll see you later, I still have something to do.'

'Thanks.'

'You can get home by yourself right?' Quasim asked before stepping out of his seat.

Lain nodded and waved her hand absently. 'I'm not a six year old, I live in this area, I'll find my way back home.'

'See you then.'

Draining down the rest of her hot chocolate, Lain sat there, watching through the window as Quasim climbed into his car and drove off, giving her a wave before he turned and hit the road.

She knew Quasim had sensed something between the two of them, something unusual, like Madge, yet he didn't say anything until tonight, after being a witness of their marriage.

'He's crazy.' Lain muttered, taking deep breaths. 'There's no way…'

'Miss, do you want anything else?' The waitress asked.

'No.' She handed her the dollars Quasim left behind. 'Keep the change.'

Stepping out of the coffee house, Lain pulled her white jacket closer to herself, frowning at the sudden gust of wind that blew through her hair. People said her hair was her best feature, aside from her abnormally bright eyes. She hated her eyes, they reminded her too much of her Mother. She hated when people said she looked like her.

Zipping up her jacket, Lain stuck her hands into the pockets and strolled down the streets. The coffee house was in a relatively quiet area, near the residential region of the colony. The coffee house was actually near to where she lived, but somehow, she didn't feel like going home. It didn't feel like home anymore. Miraculously, she didn't want to be alone.

As she walked down the streets, it got noisier and noisier.

As she walked past a huge neon light box that read 'Fuck me Up', she jumped back as a crowd of teenagers stumbled past her. Apparently one was being chased by the hoard with bottles of champagne. Lain couldn't help but stop and watch as the victim was tracked down and drowned with the sweet liquid, laughing as the others around them cheered on.

A sudden feeling of bitterness rose inside Lain, making her feel uncomfortable. Turning away abruptly, she continued down the street, watching as the people around her enjoyed themselves. The streets were lined with bars and nightclubs where people around her were mostly drunk or on the way. She even saw a crowd cheering loudly as a young woman started stripping herself to the music, starting with her torn shirt.

'You don't belong here.' Lain whispered as she continued her way. She didn't belong here either, what right did she have to tell Rusty off? She didn't. Quasim was right, she was indeed pathetic.

Closing her eyes, she tried to clear her thoughts but found it hard with the increasingly loud music blaring through the speakers from the nightclubs nearby. She suddenly opened her eyes at the sound of church bells and turned her head in the chime's direction.

'Someone's getting married today?' She heard a group of kids say.

'Maybe they're drunk.'

'How's that?'

'Don't you know that half the people who get married around this area are drunk.'

As if her feet were carrying her, Lain turned to the direction of the church. Her pace quickened unconsciously and she was later pushing her way through the crowds. When she got to the entrance of the church, she saw a couple stumble out, laughing like fools.

'Another drunken couple.'

'Man, lawyers around this place really make a lot from these divorces.'

Lain continued standing there as the crowd started to dissipate. Swallowing hard, she stepped into the small dingy church and was met with a glare from the receptionist.

'Another marriage? You will have to wait.' She acted like she was ordered to make another hamburger.

'You let people marry when they're that drunk?' Lain asked.

'Of course.' The woman said lazily, taking out a filer. 'They pay and we do the job, simple as that.'

Lain raised her eyebrows. 'Really?'

'What do you really want?' The woman asked rudely, glaring up at her. 'If you're not here to get married then buzz off, there are plenty of people waiting in line you know.'

'Do you have rings?' Lain asked.

'Wedding rings?' Nodding, the receptionist opened a drawer and took out a velvet tray that carried a limited selection of wedding bands.

'Do you have any engraving services?' Lain asked, picking up a pair that were made of platinum.

'Of course.' The receptionist continued to file her nails. 'I can do it in ten minutes, just tell me the name and date.'

'You do it?' Lain looked at her skeptically.

'Yes.' The receptionist said curtly.

Lain stared down at the pair in her hands. Sighing heavily, she handed it to the receptionist. 'I'll take this pair.'

'Write down the name and date on this piece of paper.'

Taking a deep breath, Lain wrote her name down neatly. She followed by writing the name 'Russ' beside hers, but stopped. Gulping down a huge lump, she crossed it out and wrote 'Rusty', followed by today's date.

'You got married today?' The receptionist asked absently as she set the machine up.

'Yeah.' Lain said uncomfortably, tapping her feet on the carpeted floor.

'Without a wedding ring?' The woman looked over her shoulder briefly. 'What kind of a husband do you have.'

'You wouldn't want to know.' Lain muttered. Ten minutes later, the woman handed her the two engraved rings in a red velvet box. Snapping it shut, she stuck it in her pocket and paid in cash, much to the receptionist's surprise.

What are you doing? Lain asked herself as she walked down the street. She kept wandering down the streets until she reached the park across her building.

She remembered strolling down the park with Rusty, hand in hand, like a happy couple. People in the park would smile at them, kids would come up and ask them to play. After that first time, they came down every now and then, it was like a routine, a routine she never experienced. Those ten months not only changed her life style, it also changed her. She was not the type to miss something but now, she missed this park, she missed the time she spent with Rusty. She hadn't realized how much she loved spending time with him, and now…

Reaching into her pocket, Lain leaned against the railing and flipped it open. She stared down at it, touching it once in a while. She didn't even bother to find shelter when it started to pour, soaking her completely. She just stared down at the wedding rings she bought until the sun rose. The rain had stopped but she was still soaked from head to toe. She looked up when a woman rode by her in a bicycle, the water splashing up slightly.

'Sorry there!' The woman called, looking over her shoulder.

Sighing, Lain snapped the box shut again and walked out of the park. Crossing the familiar street, she stopped in front of her building, hesitating before she stepped in.

'Dear Gods, what happened?' The guard exclaimed.

'I forgot to bring my umbrella.' Lain explained absently, pressing on the elevator button.

'I thought you'd come back with that friend of yours.' The guard said.

'He came back?' Lain asked.

The guard nodded. 'Yeah, a women with dyed red hair came in with him. He looked so drunk and still had a beer bottle in his hand. I asked who the woman was and she said she was your sister, so I let her in.'

Her breath suddenly caught in her throat, Lain bowed her head as the elevator doors opened. 'Thanks.'

'Take care!' The guard called before the doors closed.

Standing in the middle of the elevator, Lain looked down at her feet, feeling numb as she was carried up the building. Stepping out of the lift, she felt all the energy drain from her as she approached her door. Taking a deep breath, she reached into her pocket and took out her keys, unlocking the door. Closing it behind her soundlessly, she turned and saw clothes discarded on the wooden floor, trailing it's way down to the end. The door to the master bedroom was half closed and a red lacy thong was hooked on the doorknob.

Stepping over the clothes, Lain put one hand on the door. Clutching the velvet box in her hands, she pushed it open soundlessly.

'You're back?' Novita sat up from the bed with the sheets wrapped around her naked body, a lit cigarette in her mouth. 'Morning.'

Stirring in his sleep, Rusty turned to his side, the sheets twisting around his waist. Lain could see the sweat dripping down the side of his face.

'Go back to sleep.' Novita whispered into his ears. Slipping off the bed, she dragged the heavy sheets around and walked towards the dressing table, tapping the cigarette over the wedding certificate. Taking a shaky drag, she looked over her shoulder and smirked.

'You're awfully quiet Lain.' Novita sneered, turning towards her. She shot a glance at Rusty's sleeping form. 'You're husband's really good in bed.'

Lain just stared at her, feeling totally numb.

'I wanted him first and you know I'll get what I want.' Novita continued. Walking up to her, she breathed out the smoke into Lain's face. 'You'll always be the loser. He's mine.'

Looking down, Lain saw a huge water stain around her feet from the water dripping from her body.

Dropping the half burnt cigarette onto the floor, Novita strolled to the dressing table and picked up the wedding certificate. Holding it up, she gave Lain a sly smile and tore it into four. Raising it up in the air, she let it go, the heavy piece flying before her.

Swallowing with her teeth clutched, Lain turned and left the room. Crossing her arms, Novita watched as she walked down the hallway and stepped out of the apartment, slamming the door behind her.

'Miss, are you crying?' The guard asked carefully when she stepped out of the elevator again.

Lain shook her head and gave him a small smile.

'It was the rain.'

'Where's Lain?' Herze asked, lighting a cigar.

'She's sick.' Quasim said, sitting down at the table, shooting Rusty a glance. 'She's with Madge right now.'

'She's supposed to bring something today.' Giles said.

'Here it is.' Quasim reached under the table and pulled out a long case and pushed it across the table.

'What's this?' Rusty asked.

'A new weapon, upgraded version of NSX-543.' Quasim replied.

'Who do you want dead this time Dad?' Novita asked, resting her cheek on her palm. Rusty narrowed his eyes slightly at the hand that ran up his thigh.

'From now on, Rusty MacKenzie is dead.' Herze puffed out some smoke. 'You know that from now you are Russ Enzia, Nessar's ace assassin. You don't need to ask question, you just kill whoever I want killed.'

'Perfect.' Rusty nodded. 'That's what I want to do, no helpers required, just tell me who you want dead.'

Smirking, Herze tossed a file onto the table. 'I've got a list for you, go over them. You have a week.'

Rusty smiled, picking up the file.

'You can go now.' Herze turned to Quasim. 'Take him out and come back as soon as possible, I want to talk to you and Novita.'

'Yes Father.' Bowing his head, Quasim stood up, motioning for Rusty. Nodding, he picked up the case and file. He raised one eyebrow at Novita before turning around.

'I see you're tired Enzia.' Quasim commented lightly as they entered the elevator. 'You've had some fun haven't you?'

'That's what wedding nights are for.' Rusty said absently.

'You're a disappointment.' Quasim said quietly, glaring at him. 'You really are.'

'How's that?' Rusty asked, a small smile on his face.

'You're putting her through hell.' Quasim said. 'And she's done nothing wrong, except for maybe falling in love with you.'

Rusty smirked. 'She indeed acted like she fell in love with me that night. I'm starting to wonder if I've married the wrong person.'

'You did.' Quasim said shortly as the elevator door opened. 'And you're putting her through hell. She doesn't deserve this kind of punishment.'

Smiling, Rusty bowed his head slightly and stepped out of the elevator. He stood there, training his eyes on nothing in particular. Taking a deep breath, he put on his shades and hauled the heavy case, walking towards his car. The sun was shining brightly but the ground was still wet from the continuous nights of rain. Throwing the case into the backseat of the sports sedan he was provided, he slammed the door and climbed into the driver's seat.

The four nights of rain had bothered him, they were sleepless nights. It wasn't because of the vigorous physical activity but because of the darkness. He didn't want to fall asleep and only closed his eyes from time to time. Though he felt safer sleeping when the sun had come up, it just wasn't the same sleeping with her, having her arms wrapped around him.

'She's done nothing wrong, except for maybe falling in love with you.'

Narrowing his eyes, he added pressure to the gas. What did Quasim Van Ness know? Lain didn't want him around so he left the house. She didn't want him in her life, right? He did the right thing, right?

'You are so pathetic Rusty MacKenzie.' Rusty cursed. 'Absolutely pathetic.'

He was lying if he told people guilt didn't plunge him when he found Novita butt naked beside him. He had slept with another women, his wife's sister on his wedding night. Despite the guilt, he pushed it away and concentrated on how Novita turned him on, fired him up and made him feel just so damn good. She had suggested they leave the apartment and head off to her villa. He didn't say no, couldn't really find a reason to say no except probably that he was married. Novita van Ness was the perfect women who knew how to satisfy men.

You know that's not what you want. Rusty thought

Lain's face flashed through his mind endlessly. He wanted to be with her, he wanted her so badly…

She's in love with me? Stopping the car in the backstreet of the apartment, he sat there, gripping the steering wheel. That's impossible.

Stepping out of the car, he took the long case out from the backseat and slammed the door. He was glancing down at his watch when the cellphone in his pocket rang.

'Enzia.' He was getting use to using this name already.

'You want to come over tonight baby?' Novita asked.

Smirking, Rusty leaned against the car with his feet crossed. 'You know I won't say no to your invitations, but I can't tonight.'

'Why?' Novita frowned. 'Where are you?'

'Back at the apartment.' Rusty replied.

'What? But Rusty – '

'The name's Russ.' Rusty interrupted. 'I prefer people using my new name, it reminds me of my new identity honey.'

'Fine.' Novita pouted.

'I need to go back sooner or later, I'm married to your sister.' Rusty said.

'You were supposed to marry me.' Novita muttered. 'I can't believe it.'

'Be good.' Rusty coaxed. 'Don't make an issue out of it, you know you're not the position and neither am I.'

'Fine, I'll see you later sweetie.' Novita gave him a smooch through the phone.

'Yeah, I'll see you.' With that, Rusty cut the connection, snapping the cover shut. Hauling the case from the trunk cover, he strolled out of the alley and entered the lobby of the building.

'I haven't seen you in a long time sir.' The guard looked up from the station. 'I haven't had a chance to ask your name.'

'The name's Enzia.' Rusty replied. 'Russ Enzia.'

'Are you roommates with Miss Van Ness or…'

'We're newlyweds.' Rusty said before he could stop himself.

The guard raised his eyebrows. 'Newlyweds?'

Rusty nodded. 'Yeah, not your average kind of couple, but yeah.'

'I thought you were with the red head lady who went up to the apartment with you a few days ago.'

'That's Lain's sister.' Rusty replied.

'Oh, now that makes some sense.' The guard nodded. 'It's just weird though. Miss Van Ness came walking in a few days ago soaked from head to toe and walked back out ten minutes later.'

Rusty widened his eyes slightly. 'Is she here now?'

The guard shrugged. 'I don't know, I was off the next few days. I thought she was crying when she got out of the elevator, but she said it was just the rain. '

Rusty swallowed and looked away. 'Thanks, my elevators here.'

'Have a good day sir.'

Rusty racked his hand through his spiky hair and punched in the floor number. If Lain had come up to the apartment that morning, that meant…

'She certainly thinks there's no problem.' Rusty muttered bitterly, stepping out of the elevator. If she did give a damn she would have done something, even if it was Novita. She certainly had a fun time shooting at her with a gun. This just proved just how much she really cared about their 'relationship', she wasn't even bothered that her husband had slept with another women on their wedding night.

Or so it seems…

Rusty frowned as he stepped into the apartment. Something was different… really different.

Setting the case down, he looked around. Was there a renovation he didn't know in the past four days? The lights were on so that meant Lain was here…

Rusty walked to the end of the hall where the master bedroom was. Opening the door, he widened his eyes. All the old furniture was thrown away in replace of brand new ones. The mini bar was gone in replace of a sofa set. Before, the bed was a four poster, made with mahogany wood. Now, everything was in white, from the desk to the wardrobes and the sofa set. There was even carpet.

What happened around here during his absence?

'You're back.'

Rusty looked up and saw Lain standing at the bathroom door wearing a thick white towel. Her long waist length hair was pulled up loosely with a single clip and she was barefoot.

'What's going on here?' Rusty asked, taking off his shoes.

'You mean the minor renovation?' Lain asked nonchalantly, walking to the dressing table.

'You call this minor? Rusty frowned. 'You changed everything and added carpet.'

'I wanted to change this room anyway.' Lain shrugged. 'It's no big deal, I've got the money.' She looked at Rusty through the mirror.

'I got your rifle.' Rusty said. 'Quasim said you were sick.'

Lain sighed. 'Nothing serious.'

'You came here that morning?' Rusty asked, pretty much knowing the answer.

'Yeah.'

Rusty raised his eyebrows. 'No hard feelings huh?'

'You want me to?' Lain countered.

Rusty looked away, refusing to answer. She cried? It seemed impossible.

'Well, let me tell you this.' Lain sat up and took the clip out of her head, letting the silky black locks fall over her back like a waterfall. Turning she walked up to him.

Rusty's eyes started to tremble as they caught her taking off her robe, letting it fall to her ankles. Stopping right in front of him, Lain traced one finger across his jaw line and turned his head by the chin.

'I'd like a little respect in my very own house.' Lain lowered her eyes, breathing into Rusty's lips. 'I'm not asking much, just don't ever bring my sister or any girl back here. Do that and I will kill them.' She paused and licked Rusty's lips. 'Then you.'

Stepping back, Lain raised her eyebrows at him. Turning, she stepped over the discarded robe and climbed into the bed. It was only four in the afternoon but Lain had the heavy drapes closed, limited sunlight shining into the room.

Clenching his teeth, Rusty headed towards the bathroom and slammed the door behind him. Holding himself against the basin counter, he glared at himself in the mirror. Pulling at his hair, he started stripping himself and jumped into the shower, letting icy cold water splash over him. She turned him on hard and she didn't even touch him, except for probably licking his lips.

Face it dude, you want her like nothing else. Rusty thought as he toweled himself off. Throwing the towel into the hamper, he walked back into the room butt naked. Lain was lying on the bed, breathing slowly with her eyes closed, the sheets pulled to her chest. She seemed to be sleeping, but you never knew.

He caught his reflection in the mirror when padding across the room and stopped. He had always been a hottie, even from his academy days. He wasn't a flirt like Dearka, but he had his fair share of dates and no one would expect him to marry at the age of seventeen.

Married? I don't feel like it. Rusty thought bitterly. He was about to turn around when something caught his eyes. He walked to the dressing table and saw their wedding certificate. It was taped back together. Picking it up, Rusty sniffed it and wasn't at all surprised to smell smoke. It had to be Novita.

Putting the piece of paper back onto the dressing table, he stared down at the velvet box. Reaching out one suspiciously trembling hand, he picked it up and opened it. Taking the single ring out, he peered at the inside and found Lain's name carved into it, along with the date of their marriage. Turning, he stared down at Lain and for the first time, saw an identical ring dangling around her neck from a silver chain.

She bought a ring? Rusty stared down at it. Taking a deep breath, he slipped it onto his left fourth finger. Turning off the lights, he climbed into the sheets and stared up at the ceiling, the strong sun-setting light seeping through the heavy curtains.

'I haven't slept well Lain.' Rusty suddenly whispered. 'It's not the same with out you.' Closing his eyes, he waited patiently until the body beside him stirred. Opening his eyes again, he found himself staring up at amber eyes.

She was beautiful.

Reaching out one hand, Lain caressed Rusty's face, brushing his spiky bangs out of his eyes.

'You know what I look like now don't you?' Lain whispered, the sheets sliding down her chest.

'Yeah.' Rusty breathed.

'What do you think?' Lain murmured, tracing his lips.

'Just what I thought.' Rusty reached out his left hand and bumped his ring against the one dangling from Lain's neck. 'Beautiful.'

Leaning down, Lain brushed her lips across Rusty's, looking into his clear blue eyes. Opening his mouth, Rusty tugged onto her lip with his teeth. Sliding his hand up her back, he pushed her down gently and kissed her slowly. It felt right, it felt so damn right.

He was pathetic; she was pathetic.

They were both pathetic.


End of Chapter 5

A/N: Uh, someone complaining that I update too fast, interesting... Anyway, you'll be cursing me when I don't update for three weeks. Yeah, unfortunately, that's the case because I'm leaving home for university overseas, so my life will be pretty hectic until I settle down completely. That's kind of why I updated so fast... as compensation.

Some readers might think that I was being bitchy in my last little comment at the end of chapter 4, but I was pissed. The thing is there's a warning at the very top of every chapter stating that there will be 'explicit adult content', so on and so forth. Repeating what I commented, the warning and R/M rating is there for a reason. No flames and complains of such sort will be tolerated because I have already warned you. It's your problem if you don't look out for the warnings and I suggest that you do so if you haven't because every warning on top will be present in the following chapters, trust me. Just because I don't write a lot at the end of each chapter doesn't mean I won't when I feel the need to defend myself and my story.

Next is people commenting on the focus on Rusty alone. Well, this is Rusty's story, so it's only reasonable that I puta majorfocus on Rusty. Dearka and Miriallia have turned to supporting characters, as well as all the others present in 'Rebound'. It really is only fair to let Rusty be in the spotlight for once. I like him! That's why I decided to write a story about him in the first place. However, from Ch 6 onwards, the story will continue from where 'Rebound' was left, so readers who aren't a fan of Rusty or think the first part is boring will have something else to look forward to, if you're still interested at all.

As I've mentioned, there will be no updates for the next three weeks to be safe. In the meantime where I don't have internet access, I'll be working on GS Aftermath III when I have the time. It's half finished by the way. If you want to see what's going on with my life, you can go to my LJ by the username 'piscesmiles'.

See you in three weeks! Constructive criticism will always be welcomed.