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Black Dreams, White Dreams
By Lulu-san
Chapter 7 - Double Confusion!
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It was one of those perfect Luca days. The sea seemed to reflect the cloudless blue sky, and a salty breeze gently sailed through the portside city. The group walked through the city, enjoying simply being there. Of course they were trying to track down the hotel, and Rikku was doing a spectacular job of getting them lost.
"It's got to be here somewhere." she complained after asking directions for the fourth time.
"Of course it's here somewhere." Tidus said, the tone of his voice no happier. "Unless you've booked us into an imaginary hotel.again."
"It wasn't imaginary!!" Rikku frowned, turning the map over. "It wasn't my fault it was demolished the day before we arrived."
"Whatever." Tidus mumbled, resting his hands behind his head.
"Could we please stick with finding this hotel, existent or not?" Lulu interrupted. "Let me see the map, Rikku."
Rikku reluctantly handed it over and within minutes Lulu had navigated them straight to the front door of the hotel.
"And who says women can't read maps!" Tidus said appreciatively, giving Lulu a enthusiastic pat on the shoulder.
"What a hotel!" Wakka exclaimed craning his neck to take in the whole thing.
It was a mansion-like resort which lay just between the beach and the city (Ironically it was only a block or two away from where they had first gotten off the ferry).
"Rikku, you sure did pick a great hotel this time!" Yuna smiled.
"Yah.might almost make up for all the horror hotels we stayed at in the past." Wakka chuckled.
"Oh, shut up." Rikku snorted, before giving them all an excited grin. "Shall we go and get booked in."
"No, I'd rather just stand out here and look at it all night." Tidus said sarcastically, which resulted in Rikku dumping her backpack on his head.
"You can carry my luggage for that." She said with a mischievous smile, before entering the massive hotel. Yuna gave Tidus a 'you asked for it' look and the two of them followed Rikku inside.
"What do you think is going on?"
The group watched from a distance as Rikku rather animatedly spoke with the receptionist. They couldn't hear what she was saying, but her actions were certainly telling them that there was some sort of problem.
"You don't think her tickets were outdated?" Yuna asked worriedly.
"I knew it was too good to be true." Tidus said, sighing depressively.
"Nah.it's not that.." Wakka said slowly.
In the distance Rikku was scratching the back of her head thoughtfully, before giving the receptionist a bright smile and signing a form on the desk.
"Oooh, something's happening" Yuna exclaimed, as the receptionist handed Rikku a set of keys from under the desk.
"He says that he can show us to our room now!" Rikku called, beckoning them over.
"What a relief." Wakka and Tidus both sighed.
"Room." Lulu muttered to herself thoughtfully as they followed their guide into a lift. "Not rooms"
She was afraid that she had a very good idea of what Rikku had been talking about with the receptionist.
After they walked through what seemed like a labyrinth of rooms, stairs and corridors, their guide finally stopped them outside a door.
"Ah, here we are!" he said. "Room 208. I hope you have a pleasant stay here"
He opened the door, and Lulu followed the group in cautiously.
"Wooow!!!"
Rikku and Yuna were already pressing their noses up against two large, glass windows revealing a spectacular view of the city.
"Amazing!" Yuna said breathlessly, staring around the elegant room. Apartment was probably a better word though, as it seemed to be filled with every appliance or furniture that you could every need.
"I don't believe it!" Tidus exclaimed happily, already exploring the kitchen. "There's a waffle maker here."
"Don't get any ideas now, Rikku" Wakka warned, cutting her excitement short. "Only people who can cook should be allowed into the kitchen."
"Harsh." Rikku grinned.
"I've found the bathroom!"
Rikku, Wakka and Tidus raced to where Yuna had called from.
"Wow." Rikku gaped. "I sure picked a fancy place this time, huh."
The bathroom consisted of two rooms, the first being a plush laundry/changing room. It even included seats, a small table and separate clothes baskets. The second room had a huge bath/spa and a shower completely surrounded by sparkling glass.
"Lulu, you gotta come and see this!" Wakka yelled.
But Lulu had already taken that time to explore the balcony and the rest of the living room. She had to agree with Rikku that it had a pretty spectacular view. The only thing left to see were the bedrooms. As Rikku, Yuna, Tidus and Wakka filed out of the bathroom, chattering excitedly, it would seem that Tidus had read her mind.
"So Rikku, where are the bedrooms?" he asked her.
"Ah.ahahahah.ha.ha." Rikku laughed nervously, scratching the back of her head. "I think it's through that door over there."
They followed her gaze to a single door, next to the kitchen.
And as Yuna slowly opened the door, Lulu discovered that it was just as she had feared.
"Rikku! What the hell is this?" Tidus exclaimed as he observed the room. Rikku peeked at the room over Yuna's shoulder.
"What.?Ah..haha.I don't see anything wrong..." She smiled nervously, backing away.
The room itself was fine.perfect view and everything. However.
"Why is there only ONE room?" Tidus demended.
"More importantly, why are there only TWO DOUBLE beds?" Wakka butted in.
"Well.ah.welcome to the Double-Honeymoon suite!" Rikku announced.
"Double-honey-WHAT!!" Tidus and Wakka yelled simultaneously.
Lulu sighed, and put a hand to her forehead.
"I should have known." she told herself.
"Why don't we talk about this over some waffles?" Rikku offered timidly.
Many cups of tea and waffles later, they had finally gotten the whole story from Rikku.
"Well, basically, I didn't realise that you had to book three weeks in advance, and so when I got to the desk, they told me that there were no multiple bedroomed units left.and actually there were no normal rooms left at all. But I thought this would be ok.right!" Rikku explained cheerfully.
"How is this ok?" Tidus complained. "I mean, it's luxury and all.but there's only 2 beds.which can fit 2 people each.but there are five people in total."
"There's the couch as well." Yuna pointed out.
"I'll take the couch" Lulu, Wakka, Rikku all said simultaneously.
"C'mon Rikku, there has to be something we can do about it!" Tidus asked her.
"Sorry guys! We'll have to make do!" she said apologetically.
"It's alright." Yuna said, speaking up. "It's not like we're all total strangers, in fact we've known each other for ages. Personally, I'm not bothered sharing a bed with anyone here."
"Yeah.I guess you're right" Tidus sighed.
"So that's settled." Lulu said, taking charge. "The two boys can share one bed, the cousins can share the other and I'll take the couch."
"Excuse me? Who asked you to decide?" Rikku demanded. "I'm afraid that the couch is mine!"
"You're kidding, ya!" Wakka exclaimed. "I deserve it the most! The couch is mine."
Yuna watched nervously as the sparks began flying (and not just from Lulu's fingertips).
"Hey guys? Why don't we decide this by chance?" Tidus said brightly.
"Oooh yes!" Rikku grinned, rubbing her hands together.
"But not by your idea of chance, cheater!" Tidus chuckled, causing Rikku to pout unhappily. "I'll tell you what we'll do. I'll write 'Bed 1' on two bits of paper, 'Bed 2' on two other bits of paper and 'Couch' on the last one. Then, we'll fold them over, shuffle them, and pick a piece each. What we pick will be our bed. And no changing! How's that?"
"Sounds fair." Wakka said approvingly, and Lulu nodded.
"Right then!" Tidus said, grabbing some paper and writing down the different options. He then folded each one over and shuffled them on the table, so that it was impossible to tell one from the other.
"Ladies first" he said, gesturing to the three girls.
Yuna, Rikku and Lulu all gingerly took a piece and Wakka and Tidus each took one of the remaining pieces.
"On the count of three..one.two.OPEN!" Rikku excitedly tore open her piece.
"Oh man." she said, with a disappointed frown. "I got 'Bed 1'. Who am I with?"
"I got 'Bed 1' too!" Yuna smiled at her cousin. "Looks like we're sharing, Rikku!"
"Cool!" Rikku smiled back.
The remaining three exchanged glances and Lulu prayed for the couch. Slowly, they opened their papers.
"Awww." Wakka pouted. "Bed 2. Who's with me?"
Lulu bit her lip, and took a peek at her paper.
"Aaaah! I got the couch!" Tidus yelled suddenly.
"Then that means." Rikku and Yuna looked over at Lulu.
"Bed 2." Lulu announced with a sigh. "I'm with Wakka."
There was an uncomfortable silence.
"Ah well, you're childhood friends after all!" Yuna said with a reassuring tone, which seemed to end the conversation.
"Well, I'm gonna get unpacked" Rikku announced.
As the group busied themselves with unpacking, Lulu sidled up to Tidus.
"Are you sure you don't want to trade?" she asked him. "The couch looks rather small."
"Who are you kidding?" Tidus laughed. "I bet that Wakka kicks in his sleep! And no, the couch isn't too small, thanks all the same!"
Lulu shot him a death glare, which only caused him to chuckle.
"Geez Lulu." He said with a smug smile. "I would have though you would be excited to share a bed with Wakka of all people."
"Wha!! What.What are you IMPLYING!" she demanded, feeling the urge to burn his eyebrows off.
"Oh nothing." he said vaguely, and wandered off leaving a very angry Lulu fuming to herself.
The afternoon slipped lazily away as they unpacked or simply lay around, enjoying their luxurious suite. As the sun began to sink below the horizon, Rikku slowly stretched and got up from her comfortable chair.
"I'm starving." she complained. "Can we eat yet?"
Yuna sat up quickly, her soft eyes gleaming.
"Shall we cook, Rikku?" she said excitedly.
"Oooh, I think so!" Rikku replied, her eyes shining just as brightly.
"Whoa, just a minute!" Wakka quickly stepped in. "Do you really think that's a good idea?"
"Uhh, why not?" Yuna asked innocently. "Anyway, what should we cook, Rikku?"
As the pair began discussing their cooking plans, Wakka quietly lent over towards Lulu.
"Help, Lu!!!" he whispered in a panic. "They only listen to you!"
Lulu sighed and stood up, thinking fast.
"I think I saw a restaurant downstairs, when we were booking in." She interrupted. "Why don't we eat there for a celebration?"
"Good idea!" Tidus said appreciatively.
"Oh yeah! I forgot!" Rikku added. "Because I won this holiday, we can also have all we can eat for free! Provided that we eat in the hotel, that is! Also, we can use all the facilities for free as well!"
"Wow! Really?" Wakka exclaimed. "Well, what are we waiting for? I'm starving!"
Upon entering the fancy looking restaurant, it was hard to tell whether Rikku or Tidus was more excited.
"Oh wow, see those kebabs she's eating? I want some of those.!" Tidus told them happily.
"Oh lookie, lookie! I want to eat those steaks!! Would you look at the size of that fish, oh yum! Oh WOW, see that chocolate mousse! I gotta try that!" Rikku said, practically drooling over the expensive carpet.
"Will you two quiet down!" Wakka said with embarrassment. "You're acting like kids, ya! I feel like a babysitter!"
"Oh c'mon, Wakka!" Rikku sniggered. "You and I both know you're just as excited as we are..they have your favourite lasagne!"
"Oh wow, where?" he exclaimed, all embarrassment forgotten.
A waiter walked towards them and guided them to an empty table.
"Please.enjoy yourselves." He told them, handing them all thick, leather- bound menus.
"I feel so out of place." Yuna whispered across the table.
"Who are you kidding!" Rikku cried. "If anyone deserves to eat here, it's Yunie, the famous summoner, who brought the eternal calm!"
"Shhhh!" Yuna hushed her quickly, hoping that no-one else had heard. It wasn't easy for Yuna to get away from people constantly wanting to shake her hand.
"Sorry!" Rikku said quickly. "Uh.anyway, what are you guys gonna eat?"
"Hmm.this soup looks good!" Yuna said thoughtfully.
"Soup.how boring." Rikku complained.
"As an entrée!" Yuna smiled cheekily.
The waiter sidled up to their table again.
"May I take your order, Sirs and Madams?"
"Oooh, I think so!" Rikku told him. "I'll have.uh.this.and this, and this! Oh, and this and this.oh and that too."
Rikku began to point out half the items on the menu, making it difficult for the waiter.
"Is this all to share?" he asked politely.
"No." Rikku said sincerely. "It's all for me."
"Eh, right. That's fine." The waiter quickly backtracked. "And you, madam?"
"Oh.The chicken satay and a garden salad, for now please." Yuna said.
"Satay.garden salad.and you sir?"
After taking Tidus's order (which was just as long as Rikku's) the waiter turned to Wakka.
"Oh.I'll have the special soup, the lasagne and a chicken salad, please." Wakka said politely.
"I see." The waiter said furiously scribbling it down.
"Oh and a glass of water please." Wakka added.
"Right.And what will your wife have?" he asked, gesturing to Lulu who was sitting beside Wakka.
There was a very uncomfortable silence; in which Wakka's face began to blush scarlet and even Lulu was caught off guard.
"I'm/She's not." they both stuttered simultaneously. "I mean."
"Oh yes." Rikku said mischievously. "Such a loving couple.did you know they've been married for nearly three years?"
"Really?" The waiter smiled. "Congratulations."
"She's expecting in sprin-"
"Rikku!" Yuna cut her off sharply.
"We're not actually married.we're just friends." Lulu said calmly to the waiter. "I'll have the mixed vegetable platter, and some rice please."
"Ah, right. Your orders will arrive soon" the waiter quickly excused himself, before he could embarrass himself any more.
"Rikku." Lulu snarled. "What the hell was that all about?"
"Yah, Rikku! What are you playing at?" Wakka demanded. "That was really stupid, ya!"
"Why are you getting so upset?" Rikku said smugly. "It was just a joke! Anyone would think that you two had something to hide, or something!"
"Aaargh, just forget it!" Wakka said, frustrated.
"Well, you two did look like the perfect couple just then." Tidus pitched in. "Anyone could make a mistake."
"Yup, yup!" Rikku chirped.
"Oh, shut up!" Wakka said angrily. "We did not and you know it!"
"Is that so? Then why are you blushing?" Rikku teased smugly.
"I am NOT blushing! I mean, it's not like I mind if they thought we were married or anything - aaargh, no that's not it.it's not that I want to be or anything.no that's wrong.I mean that.aaarghh, anyway I'm NOT blushing" Wakka shouted, banging his fist on the table. Suddenly, he felt Lulu's slender fingers over the top of his clenched hand.
"Leave it Wakka." She said quietly.
"Wah?"
"I'll deal with it in a more painful way later." she said in a death whisper, sparks flying from her fingers.
"Eh.whoops!" Rikku giggled timidly. "Uh.did anyone tell you that you're looking great tonight, Lulu?"
"Well, you're in for it now." Yuna said, resting her head in her hands.
Luckily, their dinner arrived at that time, and the argument was forgotten over the mouth-watering dishes.
A few hours later, they were walking back to their room (with the exception of Rikku and Tidus who were staggering under the weight of their stuffed stomachs).
"That was so nice." Yuna sighed contentedly.
"Yup." Wakka agreed patting his stomach happily. "I am completely ready to go and sleep this off now."
"One day, I'll cook this good!" Rikku stated confidently.
"Keep practicing and you will, ya!" Wakka chuckled. "Just don't get me to eat your practice dishes."
"Mmm.shut up, you goof." Rikku yawed, too tired even for an argument. "Ah.we're here."
Tidus unlocked their door and immediately flopped onto his couch, drawing up his covers.
"G'night." He yawned.
"Aren't you going to change into your pyjamas?" Rikku asked him sleepily.
"I'll do it in the morning." came his muffled reply, shortly followed by his soft snoring.
"What a kid! He's already asleep!" Wakka grinned, before yawning hugely. "I think I might do the same, ya."
"Wakka, you get changed out here." Rikku told him, as the trio of girls filed into the bedroom. "And don't peek!"
"Whatever." Wakka yawned, sticking his tongue out at the closed door.
"Dammit." Lulu thought angrily to herself. "Why didn't I bring another night-dress? If only I had known.this one is so..so."
She was bent over her luggage, holding the thin night-dress tightly in one hand and grimacing.
Yuna, who had finished changing, looked over at Lulu.
"What's wrong?" she asked. "How come you're not changed yet, Lulu?"
Lulu cast a quick glance over Yuna's polyester pyjama pants and top.
"You wouldn't have another set of pyjamas I could borrow, would you?" she asked quietly, avoiding her eyes.
"Well.I did bring an extra night-dress." She said, smiling kindly.
"Thanks."
As Yuna began digging around in her luggage, Rikku sidled up beside Lulu.
"So.what's wrong with the night-dress you've got in your hand there?" she asked slyly.
Lulu scowled at the young girl.
"You were wearing it last night, I remember!" Rikku added.
"Got it!" Yuna interrupted, holding up a garment cheerfully.
"Thanks, Yuna. It's grea-"
Lulu stopped mid-sentence as she saw the dress. It was short, baby-pink and covered in frills. It was so frilly, that Lulu wondered if there was actually any dress underneath at all.
"No good?" Yuna asked, seeing Lulu's dismayed face.
"I think it might be a bit too small for me." Lulu lied quickly. "But thanks anyway."
"Look's like I'm stuck with this one then..." Lulu thought grimly to herself as she began to change into her original dress. "If anyone stares, I'll set them alight."
She looked up to see that both Yuna and Rikku were watching her intently as she packed her only dress into the empty luggage bag.
"Do you ONLY own one dress in total?" Rikku demanded. "You only ever wear the same one.the one with the belts and the fur."
"Well, I LIKE that one." Lulu retorted coldly. "Is that a problem?"
"No.I just thought that you might get bored." Rikku explained. "And what happens when you need to wash it?"
Lulu glared at her, and began to undo her hair.
"Oooh.can I help?" Rikku begged. "You have such nice hair."
Lulu said nothing, which Rikku assumed as a yes.
"I mean, back to the clothes issue." Rikku said, brushing out one plait. "Do you even own any bathers?"
"No, but I hardly see the poin- "
"And what about shorts? I never see you in shorts!" Rikku cut her off.
"Well, maybe I don't like wearin-"
"When did you last wear a skirt? You never wear pretty tops either!" Rikku complained.
"Is there something you're trying to tell me?" Lulu snapped angrily.
"It's decided then!" Rikku concluded happily, completely unfazed by Lulu's anger.
"What's decided?" Yuna asked curiously.
"Tomorrow, Yunie and I are taking Lulu clothes shopping!" Rikku said happily. "And we won't take no for an answer!"
"Don't I have a say in this?" Lulu demanded.
"No!" Rikku told her. "And you won't leave before you have lots of new clothes!"
"What!?" Lulu growled, brushing out the final braid.
"Yup! It's all decided now!" Rikku sang, hopping into her bed. "G'night! See you in the morning."
"You've lost." Yuna smiled at Lulu. "But I'm sure we'll have a good time tomorrow."
Yuna got into the other side of the bed, and was almost instantly asleep.
"Yeah." Lulu said quietly into the darkness. "Maybe"
"Can I come in yet?" Wakka called suddenly from the other side. "I'm getting COLD, ya!"
"Shh!" Lulu scolded him, opening to door. "They're both already asleep."
"Glad you're not." He told her. "Otherwise I would have frozen to death out there."
"Exaggerator."
"Evil woman who keeps people waiting outside."
"Moron."
They began bickering quietly, as per usual. However as they approached the bed, their argument faded silently away.
"Uhh.I can sleep on the floor, ya." Wakka offered embarrassedly, trying to avoid looking at Lulu's night-dress.
"How will you cope? You couldn't stand a little cold while you waited for us outside!" she said, pinching him.
"Ouch!"
"Weakling."
"Uh.so which side do you want?" Wakka said, scratching the back of his head.
"This one." Lulu said, getting in the side closest to the window.
"Ok." Wakka smiled, getting in the other side and drawing up the covers.
"Goodnight."
He switched off the bedside lamp, and darkness enveloped the room.
As Lulu's eyes adjusted to the dark, she could begin to see the outline of Wakka's face. They lay in silence for what seemed like ages. Both staring at each others faces, without even realising that the other was looking back. Wakka stared at her face, as though he had never seen it before, let alone grown up with it; seen it change as the years swept past.
"Hey.Lu?" he said quietly, his suddenness suprising her.
"What?" she replied coldly, quickly averting her eyes.
"Um.well.if you dream tonight.I mean, get sick and all.well, I'm here, ok? I'll be here if you need help. If I'm asleep, wake me up, ya. You know what I mean."
He coughed quietly, glad that she couldn't see his blushing in the dark.
"Thank you, Wakka." She said almost inaudibly, before rolling over and facing away from him.
"Well.night, then." He said, also rolling over.
"Goodnight." She replied quietly. Her eyelids were already beginning to droop closed, and she felt heavy and tired.
Slowly, the both began to fall asleep.
******************************************************* I'm SO sorry about the lack of an update for so long! I hope you haven't all forgotten about this story and moved on to bigger and better things.^_^ Anyways, I thought I write a fairly long chappie to make up for it! I was going to split it into two, but that wouldn't really work! I hope you didn't get bored!! But really, I wanted to update much sooner! But I didn't have a computer for ages - and then I moved house and couldn't write for ages. Then I was really busy with lots of stuff (exams :P ).and when I finally got around to writing again.my keyboard broke and I had to wait a few weeks for it to be replaced! Nooo. But here it is - and you won't have to wait so long for the next chapter.(who's waiting anyway -_- ) sigh.. Actually, I was quite surprised at how many reviews it got this time.you guys wanted to read it *cries with happiness* I'm sorry I let you down! Forgive me~! Once again.no real juicy stuff in this chapter.but there will big something BIG, very BIG happening next chappie (and I don't mean the shopping trip). So stay tuned, kay! The stage is set, and the pieces are in place! It's showtime~! Bwahahaha! See you next time and please review! I love feedback! Lulu-san
*Oh and listen to Morning Glow, from FFX-2, I LOVE that song! Can't wait until FFX-2 comes out where I live! Apparently, March is the closest date -_- nooooo.)
Black Dreams, White Dreams
By Lulu-san
Chapter 7 - Double Confusion!
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It was one of those perfect Luca days. The sea seemed to reflect the cloudless blue sky, and a salty breeze gently sailed through the portside city. The group walked through the city, enjoying simply being there. Of course they were trying to track down the hotel, and Rikku was doing a spectacular job of getting them lost.
"It's got to be here somewhere." she complained after asking directions for the fourth time.
"Of course it's here somewhere." Tidus said, the tone of his voice no happier. "Unless you've booked us into an imaginary hotel.again."
"It wasn't imaginary!!" Rikku frowned, turning the map over. "It wasn't my fault it was demolished the day before we arrived."
"Whatever." Tidus mumbled, resting his hands behind his head.
"Could we please stick with finding this hotel, existent or not?" Lulu interrupted. "Let me see the map, Rikku."
Rikku reluctantly handed it over and within minutes Lulu had navigated them straight to the front door of the hotel.
"And who says women can't read maps!" Tidus said appreciatively, giving Lulu a enthusiastic pat on the shoulder.
"What a hotel!" Wakka exclaimed craning his neck to take in the whole thing.
It was a mansion-like resort which lay just between the beach and the city (Ironically it was only a block or two away from where they had first gotten off the ferry).
"Rikku, you sure did pick a great hotel this time!" Yuna smiled.
"Yah.might almost make up for all the horror hotels we stayed at in the past." Wakka chuckled.
"Oh, shut up." Rikku snorted, before giving them all an excited grin. "Shall we go and get booked in."
"No, I'd rather just stand out here and look at it all night." Tidus said sarcastically, which resulted in Rikku dumping her backpack on his head.
"You can carry my luggage for that." She said with a mischievous smile, before entering the massive hotel. Yuna gave Tidus a 'you asked for it' look and the two of them followed Rikku inside.
"What do you think is going on?"
The group watched from a distance as Rikku rather animatedly spoke with the receptionist. They couldn't hear what she was saying, but her actions were certainly telling them that there was some sort of problem.
"You don't think her tickets were outdated?" Yuna asked worriedly.
"I knew it was too good to be true." Tidus said, sighing depressively.
"Nah.it's not that.." Wakka said slowly.
In the distance Rikku was scratching the back of her head thoughtfully, before giving the receptionist a bright smile and signing a form on the desk.
"Oooh, something's happening" Yuna exclaimed, as the receptionist handed Rikku a set of keys from under the desk.
"He says that he can show us to our room now!" Rikku called, beckoning them over.
"What a relief." Wakka and Tidus both sighed.
"Room." Lulu muttered to herself thoughtfully as they followed their guide into a lift. "Not rooms"
She was afraid that she had a very good idea of what Rikku had been talking about with the receptionist.
After they walked through what seemed like a labyrinth of rooms, stairs and corridors, their guide finally stopped them outside a door.
"Ah, here we are!" he said. "Room 208. I hope you have a pleasant stay here"
He opened the door, and Lulu followed the group in cautiously.
"Wooow!!!"
Rikku and Yuna were already pressing their noses up against two large, glass windows revealing a spectacular view of the city.
"Amazing!" Yuna said breathlessly, staring around the elegant room. Apartment was probably a better word though, as it seemed to be filled with every appliance or furniture that you could every need.
"I don't believe it!" Tidus exclaimed happily, already exploring the kitchen. "There's a waffle maker here."
"Don't get any ideas now, Rikku" Wakka warned, cutting her excitement short. "Only people who can cook should be allowed into the kitchen."
"Harsh." Rikku grinned.
"I've found the bathroom!"
Rikku, Wakka and Tidus raced to where Yuna had called from.
"Wow." Rikku gaped. "I sure picked a fancy place this time, huh."
The bathroom consisted of two rooms, the first being a plush laundry/changing room. It even included seats, a small table and separate clothes baskets. The second room had a huge bath/spa and a shower completely surrounded by sparkling glass.
"Lulu, you gotta come and see this!" Wakka yelled.
But Lulu had already taken that time to explore the balcony and the rest of the living room. She had to agree with Rikku that it had a pretty spectacular view. The only thing left to see were the bedrooms. As Rikku, Yuna, Tidus and Wakka filed out of the bathroom, chattering excitedly, it would seem that Tidus had read her mind.
"So Rikku, where are the bedrooms?" he asked her.
"Ah.ahahahah.ha.ha." Rikku laughed nervously, scratching the back of her head. "I think it's through that door over there."
They followed her gaze to a single door, next to the kitchen.
And as Yuna slowly opened the door, Lulu discovered that it was just as she had feared.
"Rikku! What the hell is this?" Tidus exclaimed as he observed the room. Rikku peeked at the room over Yuna's shoulder.
"What.?Ah..haha.I don't see anything wrong..." She smiled nervously, backing away.
The room itself was fine.perfect view and everything. However.
"Why is there only ONE room?" Tidus demended.
"More importantly, why are there only TWO DOUBLE beds?" Wakka butted in.
"Well.ah.welcome to the Double-Honeymoon suite!" Rikku announced.
"Double-honey-WHAT!!" Tidus and Wakka yelled simultaneously.
Lulu sighed, and put a hand to her forehead.
"I should have known." she told herself.
"Why don't we talk about this over some waffles?" Rikku offered timidly.
Many cups of tea and waffles later, they had finally gotten the whole story from Rikku.
"Well, basically, I didn't realise that you had to book three weeks in advance, and so when I got to the desk, they told me that there were no multiple bedroomed units left.and actually there were no normal rooms left at all. But I thought this would be ok.right!" Rikku explained cheerfully.
"How is this ok?" Tidus complained. "I mean, it's luxury and all.but there's only 2 beds.which can fit 2 people each.but there are five people in total."
"There's the couch as well." Yuna pointed out.
"I'll take the couch" Lulu, Wakka, Rikku all said simultaneously.
"C'mon Rikku, there has to be something we can do about it!" Tidus asked her.
"Sorry guys! We'll have to make do!" she said apologetically.
"It's alright." Yuna said, speaking up. "It's not like we're all total strangers, in fact we've known each other for ages. Personally, I'm not bothered sharing a bed with anyone here."
"Yeah.I guess you're right" Tidus sighed.
"So that's settled." Lulu said, taking charge. "The two boys can share one bed, the cousins can share the other and I'll take the couch."
"Excuse me? Who asked you to decide?" Rikku demanded. "I'm afraid that the couch is mine!"
"You're kidding, ya!" Wakka exclaimed. "I deserve it the most! The couch is mine."
Yuna watched nervously as the sparks began flying (and not just from Lulu's fingertips).
"Hey guys? Why don't we decide this by chance?" Tidus said brightly.
"Oooh yes!" Rikku grinned, rubbing her hands together.
"But not by your idea of chance, cheater!" Tidus chuckled, causing Rikku to pout unhappily. "I'll tell you what we'll do. I'll write 'Bed 1' on two bits of paper, 'Bed 2' on two other bits of paper and 'Couch' on the last one. Then, we'll fold them over, shuffle them, and pick a piece each. What we pick will be our bed. And no changing! How's that?"
"Sounds fair." Wakka said approvingly, and Lulu nodded.
"Right then!" Tidus said, grabbing some paper and writing down the different options. He then folded each one over and shuffled them on the table, so that it was impossible to tell one from the other.
"Ladies first" he said, gesturing to the three girls.
Yuna, Rikku and Lulu all gingerly took a piece and Wakka and Tidus each took one of the remaining pieces.
"On the count of three..one.two.OPEN!" Rikku excitedly tore open her piece.
"Oh man." she said, with a disappointed frown. "I got 'Bed 1'. Who am I with?"
"I got 'Bed 1' too!" Yuna smiled at her cousin. "Looks like we're sharing, Rikku!"
"Cool!" Rikku smiled back.
The remaining three exchanged glances and Lulu prayed for the couch. Slowly, they opened their papers.
"Awww." Wakka pouted. "Bed 2. Who's with me?"
Lulu bit her lip, and took a peek at her paper.
"Aaaah! I got the couch!" Tidus yelled suddenly.
"Then that means." Rikku and Yuna looked over at Lulu.
"Bed 2." Lulu announced with a sigh. "I'm with Wakka."
There was an uncomfortable silence.
"Ah well, you're childhood friends after all!" Yuna said with a reassuring tone, which seemed to end the conversation.
"Well, I'm gonna get unpacked" Rikku announced.
As the group busied themselves with unpacking, Lulu sidled up to Tidus.
"Are you sure you don't want to trade?" she asked him. "The couch looks rather small."
"Who are you kidding?" Tidus laughed. "I bet that Wakka kicks in his sleep! And no, the couch isn't too small, thanks all the same!"
Lulu shot him a death glare, which only caused him to chuckle.
"Geez Lulu." He said with a smug smile. "I would have though you would be excited to share a bed with Wakka of all people."
"Wha!! What.What are you IMPLYING!" she demanded, feeling the urge to burn his eyebrows off.
"Oh nothing." he said vaguely, and wandered off leaving a very angry Lulu fuming to herself.
The afternoon slipped lazily away as they unpacked or simply lay around, enjoying their luxurious suite. As the sun began to sink below the horizon, Rikku slowly stretched and got up from her comfortable chair.
"I'm starving." she complained. "Can we eat yet?"
Yuna sat up quickly, her soft eyes gleaming.
"Shall we cook, Rikku?" she said excitedly.
"Oooh, I think so!" Rikku replied, her eyes shining just as brightly.
"Whoa, just a minute!" Wakka quickly stepped in. "Do you really think that's a good idea?"
"Uhh, why not?" Yuna asked innocently. "Anyway, what should we cook, Rikku?"
As the pair began discussing their cooking plans, Wakka quietly lent over towards Lulu.
"Help, Lu!!!" he whispered in a panic. "They only listen to you!"
Lulu sighed and stood up, thinking fast.
"I think I saw a restaurant downstairs, when we were booking in." She interrupted. "Why don't we eat there for a celebration?"
"Good idea!" Tidus said appreciatively.
"Oh yeah! I forgot!" Rikku added. "Because I won this holiday, we can also have all we can eat for free! Provided that we eat in the hotel, that is! Also, we can use all the facilities for free as well!"
"Wow! Really?" Wakka exclaimed. "Well, what are we waiting for? I'm starving!"
Upon entering the fancy looking restaurant, it was hard to tell whether Rikku or Tidus was more excited.
"Oh wow, see those kebabs she's eating? I want some of those.!" Tidus told them happily.
"Oh lookie, lookie! I want to eat those steaks!! Would you look at the size of that fish, oh yum! Oh WOW, see that chocolate mousse! I gotta try that!" Rikku said, practically drooling over the expensive carpet.
"Will you two quiet down!" Wakka said with embarrassment. "You're acting like kids, ya! I feel like a babysitter!"
"Oh c'mon, Wakka!" Rikku sniggered. "You and I both know you're just as excited as we are..they have your favourite lasagne!"
"Oh wow, where?" he exclaimed, all embarrassment forgotten.
A waiter walked towards them and guided them to an empty table.
"Please.enjoy yourselves." He told them, handing them all thick, leather- bound menus.
"I feel so out of place." Yuna whispered across the table.
"Who are you kidding!" Rikku cried. "If anyone deserves to eat here, it's Yunie, the famous summoner, who brought the eternal calm!"
"Shhhh!" Yuna hushed her quickly, hoping that no-one else had heard. It wasn't easy for Yuna to get away from people constantly wanting to shake her hand.
"Sorry!" Rikku said quickly. "Uh.anyway, what are you guys gonna eat?"
"Hmm.this soup looks good!" Yuna said thoughtfully.
"Soup.how boring." Rikku complained.
"As an entrée!" Yuna smiled cheekily.
The waiter sidled up to their table again.
"May I take your order, Sirs and Madams?"
"Oooh, I think so!" Rikku told him. "I'll have.uh.this.and this, and this! Oh, and this and this.oh and that too."
Rikku began to point out half the items on the menu, making it difficult for the waiter.
"Is this all to share?" he asked politely.
"No." Rikku said sincerely. "It's all for me."
"Eh, right. That's fine." The waiter quickly backtracked. "And you, madam?"
"Oh.The chicken satay and a garden salad, for now please." Yuna said.
"Satay.garden salad.and you sir?"
After taking Tidus's order (which was just as long as Rikku's) the waiter turned to Wakka.
"Oh.I'll have the special soup, the lasagne and a chicken salad, please." Wakka said politely.
"I see." The waiter said furiously scribbling it down.
"Oh and a glass of water please." Wakka added.
"Right.And what will your wife have?" he asked, gesturing to Lulu who was sitting beside Wakka.
There was a very uncomfortable silence; in which Wakka's face began to blush scarlet and even Lulu was caught off guard.
"I'm/She's not." they both stuttered simultaneously. "I mean."
"Oh yes." Rikku said mischievously. "Such a loving couple.did you know they've been married for nearly three years?"
"Really?" The waiter smiled. "Congratulations."
"She's expecting in sprin-"
"Rikku!" Yuna cut her off sharply.
"We're not actually married.we're just friends." Lulu said calmly to the waiter. "I'll have the mixed vegetable platter, and some rice please."
"Ah, right. Your orders will arrive soon" the waiter quickly excused himself, before he could embarrass himself any more.
"Rikku." Lulu snarled. "What the hell was that all about?"
"Yah, Rikku! What are you playing at?" Wakka demanded. "That was really stupid, ya!"
"Why are you getting so upset?" Rikku said smugly. "It was just a joke! Anyone would think that you two had something to hide, or something!"
"Aaargh, just forget it!" Wakka said, frustrated.
"Well, you two did look like the perfect couple just then." Tidus pitched in. "Anyone could make a mistake."
"Yup, yup!" Rikku chirped.
"Oh, shut up!" Wakka said angrily. "We did not and you know it!"
"Is that so? Then why are you blushing?" Rikku teased smugly.
"I am NOT blushing! I mean, it's not like I mind if they thought we were married or anything - aaargh, no that's not it.it's not that I want to be or anything.no that's wrong.I mean that.aaarghh, anyway I'm NOT blushing" Wakka shouted, banging his fist on the table. Suddenly, he felt Lulu's slender fingers over the top of his clenched hand.
"Leave it Wakka." She said quietly.
"Wah?"
"I'll deal with it in a more painful way later." she said in a death whisper, sparks flying from her fingers.
"Eh.whoops!" Rikku giggled timidly. "Uh.did anyone tell you that you're looking great tonight, Lulu?"
"Well, you're in for it now." Yuna said, resting her head in her hands.
Luckily, their dinner arrived at that time, and the argument was forgotten over the mouth-watering dishes.
A few hours later, they were walking back to their room (with the exception of Rikku and Tidus who were staggering under the weight of their stuffed stomachs).
"That was so nice." Yuna sighed contentedly.
"Yup." Wakka agreed patting his stomach happily. "I am completely ready to go and sleep this off now."
"One day, I'll cook this good!" Rikku stated confidently.
"Keep practicing and you will, ya!" Wakka chuckled. "Just don't get me to eat your practice dishes."
"Mmm.shut up, you goof." Rikku yawed, too tired even for an argument. "Ah.we're here."
Tidus unlocked their door and immediately flopped onto his couch, drawing up his covers.
"G'night." He yawned.
"Aren't you going to change into your pyjamas?" Rikku asked him sleepily.
"I'll do it in the morning." came his muffled reply, shortly followed by his soft snoring.
"What a kid! He's already asleep!" Wakka grinned, before yawning hugely. "I think I might do the same, ya."
"Wakka, you get changed out here." Rikku told him, as the trio of girls filed into the bedroom. "And don't peek!"
"Whatever." Wakka yawned, sticking his tongue out at the closed door.
"Dammit." Lulu thought angrily to herself. "Why didn't I bring another night-dress? If only I had known.this one is so..so."
She was bent over her luggage, holding the thin night-dress tightly in one hand and grimacing.
Yuna, who had finished changing, looked over at Lulu.
"What's wrong?" she asked. "How come you're not changed yet, Lulu?"
Lulu cast a quick glance over Yuna's polyester pyjama pants and top.
"You wouldn't have another set of pyjamas I could borrow, would you?" she asked quietly, avoiding her eyes.
"Well.I did bring an extra night-dress." She said, smiling kindly.
"Thanks."
As Yuna began digging around in her luggage, Rikku sidled up beside Lulu.
"So.what's wrong with the night-dress you've got in your hand there?" she asked slyly.
Lulu scowled at the young girl.
"You were wearing it last night, I remember!" Rikku added.
"Got it!" Yuna interrupted, holding up a garment cheerfully.
"Thanks, Yuna. It's grea-"
Lulu stopped mid-sentence as she saw the dress. It was short, baby-pink and covered in frills. It was so frilly, that Lulu wondered if there was actually any dress underneath at all.
"No good?" Yuna asked, seeing Lulu's dismayed face.
"I think it might be a bit too small for me." Lulu lied quickly. "But thanks anyway."
"Look's like I'm stuck with this one then..." Lulu thought grimly to herself as she began to change into her original dress. "If anyone stares, I'll set them alight."
She looked up to see that both Yuna and Rikku were watching her intently as she packed her only dress into the empty luggage bag.
"Do you ONLY own one dress in total?" Rikku demanded. "You only ever wear the same one.the one with the belts and the fur."
"Well, I LIKE that one." Lulu retorted coldly. "Is that a problem?"
"No.I just thought that you might get bored." Rikku explained. "And what happens when you need to wash it?"
Lulu glared at her, and began to undo her hair.
"Oooh.can I help?" Rikku begged. "You have such nice hair."
Lulu said nothing, which Rikku assumed as a yes.
"I mean, back to the clothes issue." Rikku said, brushing out one plait. "Do you even own any bathers?"
"No, but I hardly see the poin- "
"And what about shorts? I never see you in shorts!" Rikku cut her off.
"Well, maybe I don't like wearin-"
"When did you last wear a skirt? You never wear pretty tops either!" Rikku complained.
"Is there something you're trying to tell me?" Lulu snapped angrily.
"It's decided then!" Rikku concluded happily, completely unfazed by Lulu's anger.
"What's decided?" Yuna asked curiously.
"Tomorrow, Yunie and I are taking Lulu clothes shopping!" Rikku said happily. "And we won't take no for an answer!"
"Don't I have a say in this?" Lulu demanded.
"No!" Rikku told her. "And you won't leave before you have lots of new clothes!"
"What!?" Lulu growled, brushing out the final braid.
"Yup! It's all decided now!" Rikku sang, hopping into her bed. "G'night! See you in the morning."
"You've lost." Yuna smiled at Lulu. "But I'm sure we'll have a good time tomorrow."
Yuna got into the other side of the bed, and was almost instantly asleep.
"Yeah." Lulu said quietly into the darkness. "Maybe"
"Can I come in yet?" Wakka called suddenly from the other side. "I'm getting COLD, ya!"
"Shh!" Lulu scolded him, opening to door. "They're both already asleep."
"Glad you're not." He told her. "Otherwise I would have frozen to death out there."
"Exaggerator."
"Evil woman who keeps people waiting outside."
"Moron."
They began bickering quietly, as per usual. However as they approached the bed, their argument faded silently away.
"Uhh.I can sleep on the floor, ya." Wakka offered embarrassedly, trying to avoid looking at Lulu's night-dress.
"How will you cope? You couldn't stand a little cold while you waited for us outside!" she said, pinching him.
"Ouch!"
"Weakling."
"Uh.so which side do you want?" Wakka said, scratching the back of his head.
"This one." Lulu said, getting in the side closest to the window.
"Ok." Wakka smiled, getting in the other side and drawing up the covers.
"Goodnight."
He switched off the bedside lamp, and darkness enveloped the room.
As Lulu's eyes adjusted to the dark, she could begin to see the outline of Wakka's face. They lay in silence for what seemed like ages. Both staring at each others faces, without even realising that the other was looking back. Wakka stared at her face, as though he had never seen it before, let alone grown up with it; seen it change as the years swept past.
"Hey.Lu?" he said quietly, his suddenness suprising her.
"What?" she replied coldly, quickly averting her eyes.
"Um.well.if you dream tonight.I mean, get sick and all.well, I'm here, ok? I'll be here if you need help. If I'm asleep, wake me up, ya. You know what I mean."
He coughed quietly, glad that she couldn't see his blushing in the dark.
"Thank you, Wakka." She said almost inaudibly, before rolling over and facing away from him.
"Well.night, then." He said, also rolling over.
"Goodnight." She replied quietly. Her eyelids were already beginning to droop closed, and she felt heavy and tired.
Slowly, the both began to fall asleep.
******************************************************* I'm SO sorry about the lack of an update for so long! I hope you haven't all forgotten about this story and moved on to bigger and better things.^_^ Anyways, I thought I write a fairly long chappie to make up for it! I was going to split it into two, but that wouldn't really work! I hope you didn't get bored!! But really, I wanted to update much sooner! But I didn't have a computer for ages - and then I moved house and couldn't write for ages. Then I was really busy with lots of stuff (exams :P ).and when I finally got around to writing again.my keyboard broke and I had to wait a few weeks for it to be replaced! Nooo. But here it is - and you won't have to wait so long for the next chapter.(who's waiting anyway -_- ) sigh.. Actually, I was quite surprised at how many reviews it got this time.you guys wanted to read it *cries with happiness* I'm sorry I let you down! Forgive me~! Once again.no real juicy stuff in this chapter.but there will big something BIG, very BIG happening next chappie (and I don't mean the shopping trip). So stay tuned, kay! The stage is set, and the pieces are in place! It's showtime~! Bwahahaha! See you next time and please review! I love feedback! Lulu-san
*Oh and listen to Morning Glow, from FFX-2, I LOVE that song! Can't wait until FFX-2 comes out where I live! Apparently, March is the closest date -_- nooooo.)