Disclaimer: I love this game but sadly I do not own Kingdom Hearts or any
of the characters otherwise I would be rich living off in some place
beautiful like Hawaii and own a new car that runs ALL the time.
Parings: Sora/Riku because they rule together.
Warnings: This fic is an AU and a YAOI (which means male/male relationships). R for language, adult behavior, and sexual stuff in later chapters. So, if you feel that this not what you had in mind then please proceed to the next story and do not read mine. Otherwise enjoy and dream of Riku and Sora do some kissing REAL SOON, DAMMIT!
Everyone who reviewed me... THANK YOU!!!! YOU GUYS RULE!!!! It made me feel good about writing the fic. Heh...so anyways, on to the story.
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:::Chapter 2- I Know You:::
"...as I was saying, your position here has been filled. We apologize that we were not able to tell you sooner but you were unavailable.
Unavailable? UNAVAILABLE!?! Are you kidding me? I was on a FRIGGIN' TEN HOUR flight coming here to Destiny Isles!
My body is beginning to shake. It's that feeling of wanting to just break every wall internally and ball your heart out or rip asunder anything in your way like let say this man for instance. I have never been this mad before. What am I going to do now? I'm standing in total shock and the only intelligent words I utter in my defense were "but...But I'm a hard worker. I can do anything you ask me to. There must be something I can do for the resort?" It's obvious that my pleas have no effect on this man.
Man, I need a smoke. It's been years since I have desired one. I guess I'm really upset.
You know what? Just as I think that this asshole brings out a pack right in front of me. Adding insult to injury he reaches for his LAST cigarette and starts to fiddle with it almost like he's taunting me. THAT BASTARD!! Calm down man, he has no idea what effect smoking has on you. Breathe. Geez. I think I'm going to cry if I don't get out of here, soon. I KNOW I'm going to start nicking if I remain.
"Look man, I understand what you're saying but there's nothing left. No jobs. This resort hires 80% of the locals from all the isles and islands that make up Destiny Isles. Most of the higher ups feel the people take precedence over fresh meat coming from outside. I'm sorry it's just the way things are." With that said he finally lights up and takes in his first drag. The man's face is thrown into pleasure.
The way things are? Is this man for real? It's favoritism! How could this happen? I muster what little energy I have left and make my last attempt to reach him, "I was promised a job when I arrived. Please! I beg you!" Now I know I'm really sounding pathetic but I can't help it. This job is critical to my plan. It's the only way I would be able to pull this off. I needed this job to search for him. I can't go back. I refuse. I just can't leave without seeing him, meeting him, knowing he's real, knowing him as a friend, loving him. I'm tired of my dreams. I'm ready for dreams to become reality.
"Hold on...Sora, wasn't it?" I nod my head. "Look, Sora, This is the best that the resort can do to make up for the...inconvenience."
Dammit, he's doing this like I'm some little rich boy about to receive a little piece of candy for the slap in the face. Now I really want to leave. The man continues smoking and relates to me the resort's idea of compensation, "You are welcome to stay the rest of the week as our honorary guest and enjoy our facilities here at the resort." I'm suddenly handed something small and metallic. "Here's your key and the number of your room. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask any of the staff. Enjoy your stay. Thank you very much for your time." He finishes his speech, drops his cigarette, snubs it out with his shoe, and at the speed of light disappears through the door behind him. An audible click of a dead bolt locking into place quickly follows. There it is...finality.
The door is off white with areas where the paint is well worn allowing the wood to show. I stare at it for a few minutes not really thinking. I have just fallen into darkness and this feeling is slowly reaching up and around my heart. My legs gave out from underneath me. But I'm so out of it that I never feel my knees hit the ground. My hands reach my face hoping to hide the shame I feel welling up at the side of my eyes. My world is shattering; I trying to shut away the light. Please don't do it here, not in public. Please don't let them see you cry.
Please...
...please...
...please stay here...
...Sora it's not safe outside, honey. You'll get sick... ...But....
...I'll never have friends...
I remember wanting to have friends when I was very little. I was extremely lonely. My mother was scared for me. I had a problem with getting sick at the drop of a hat. My body for some reason had a hard time fighting off infections. I guess my immune system wasn't anything to brag about. Everything would set me off like going outside or other people...other children. For the first eight years of my life I could have easily have passed as a little girl. My condition made me look delicate. However, once I turned eight, I became healthy and strong and grew out of it.
Thank GOD. I was finally able to live a life of a normal child. But during that time I needed someone to be my friend. My desire was so great that if I could not find someone in life then I would find them somewhere else. I turned to my dreams. I don't remember how or why but it kind of happened. Did I search him out or did he? Who knows, I think that it was a mutual need. Riku needed me as much as I did him.
The first time I entered the dreamscape was when I was very small, maybe around four years of age. I remember hearing the sound of small waves of water gently lapping at my ankles. It was pitch black. I wasn't scared but felt very warm and comforted. Weird when I think of it now, it was the perfect stage for a really great nightmare like the ones movies enjoy showing. I never felt that way.
In the dream I got bored and decided to play a game. One of my favorites was to count my steps. I was just learning how to count. :::splash::: :::splash::: "one" :::splash::: "two" :::splash::: "three..um...three..." :::splash::: :::splash::: "heh.five. five. :::splash::: "Eight.TEN!!" :::splash::: :::splash:::
:::giggle:::
:::?::: "what?"
:::giggle::: "That's not how you count." A second voice joins the darken void.
I'm confused very now. I thought I was the only person here. I turned around wanting to find the owner of the voice. The moment I did I was instantly struck by two pair of green within green eyes. Ooooooo, pretty. Then they began to move. They were coming closer. "Who...who are you?" I ask.
"Na uh. You first."
:::blush::: "Oh...Okay...my name is Sora." I'm a little shy now. See, this was the first child I have met my age. "You?"
"Heh. My NAME is Riku! I can spell it too. R-I-K-U. See!" Now the voice is right next to my ear. "Nice to meet you Sora."
"Nice...to...meet you," I said nervously. But I can't see you I say in a low whisper. However, once the words passed my lips the dreamscape altered instantly. Clouds swam from the edges of nowhere through the sky to meet in the middle just above us. Light started pierce through the clouds creating beams of incandescent gold trailing along the ground. We had to shield our eyes until they adjusted to the abrupt change.
It was the first time I found I was able to manipulate the dreamscape.
The owner of the green eyes looked around in awe. "wow!" Now, it was time for me to get excited. I could finally see Riku or sort of see him. His body was fuzzy but I didn't mind. He soon turned away from the sky and focused on me. "Hey, Sora let's be friends."
My face immediately lit up with uncontrolled excitement. "Yea, I want you to be my friend, too." I said with a wild grin. Suddenly without warning I was pounced upon with a string of giggles and laughter following. I can't begin to express how happy I was at that moment. Riku became the most important person in my life.
We grew up together. We were best friends. At some point it finally dawned on me that Riku thought I was a girl. I never corrected him for fear; fear that he might not want to be my friend anymore. Silly...sure...but as more time passed and it became a null issue, anyways. Why bother screwing with our relationship. I mean I was in my mid-twenties dreaming of my closest friend who I may never see.
We never talked about the real world. Somehow I think the subject scared Riku. I didn't care either way. It didn't matter. There was only one time that he mentioned where he lived. I was so shocked by the information that I never forgot. Destiny Isles. So you could imagine my surprise when I found the cluster of islands appear in a travel pamphlet for vacation resorts. Something dismissible as a little piece of paper changed my life irreversibly.
I made a plan. Compared to everything else, this will go down as probably the craziest thing I have ever done. I used everything possible to get to the islands to spend, if needed, the rest of my life looking for the man I have obsessively dreamt of for all of my life.
Things to do:
:::1:::Put aside my career and drop the job waiting for me after college. It will make me look unreliably to future employers effectively shooting myself in the foot. Who cares.
:::2:::Lie to my parents. Level of difficulty will be great since I never lie. They believe that I am going on a recreational trip and return at the turn of the week; in actuality I plan to stay indefinitely. I know this will hurt them but it's something I have to do.
:::3:::Apply and get a job working at the resort at Destiny Isles thus insuring the ability to stay and search for Riku. Yes.
:::4:::Easy? No, more like real stupid. Idiotic. Brainless. Moronic.
My name is Sora. I'm 26 years old and I have never done anything outside the box. I have always been the good little boy that grew into the meek man I am today. I am gentle and feel someone else's feelings take precedence over mine. If I didn't an outlet for my thoughts and emotions through Sei, Riku's nickname, I imagine I would be past mildly upset and well into becoming clinically depressed. At least that is how I see myself on less forgiving days.
See in the real world nothing is ever out of place in my life. My mother and father were very sweet and understanding parents. My mother breeds professional show irises and distributes the bulbs from the perennials locally as well as nationally. My father on the other hand is an artificial inseminator for local cattle ranches and a few herds over sea. It's a very lucrative business. So what does it mean to be my father? Well...my father is the master of fertilizing heifers through the rectum. In layman's terms he rams his hand into the cow's butt sinking it to his shoulder. Once there he feels around for the ovaries and deposit the bull's spooge. What's even worse is that there is always a moment when fathers want to pass down their knowledge to their only begotten son and I unfortunately was no exception.
"This is very serious work, Sora.I am about to teach to you how to impregnate a cow. Now we will be accessing the ovaries, reaching the mature eggs through the rectum."
"Um dad? I'm not sure if I can really do this."
"Nonsense. Everyone can but only the great ones not only inseminate but also are able to tell how far along the baby is during the pregnancy. So, we'll start with the glove." :::shmack::: "From here we push our hand just past the sphincter and into the butt..." :::squish:::
:::?!?::: cow is definitely awake now.
:::snicker:::
"Did you say something, son?"
"Um...hehe...no, dad. Please continue." :::snicker::: "heh."
"Now watch carefully." :::squish:::
"Moo?" :::stomp in place:::
:::hahahahahahahahahahahahahahah:::
:::squish::: "Son...stop laughing and pay attention. This is the important part." :::squish:::
"Mooo!?!" :::some more stomping:::
:::cough::: "Okay...heh..."
:::squish:::
"Sorry, dad. I'm better, now. Keep going...heh...heheh."
"Come on. This is not a laughing matter...huh...here we go...almost to the ovaries." :::SQUISH:::
"MOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!"
:::HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH:::
I completely lost it that day. Mom had to drag me by the collar into the house so my father wouldn't resort to taking the life of his child. He didn't actually want to kill me but the whole thing was a little much for a 14 year old to handle with any sense of maturity. It was from that moment on that both of my parents felt I should learn a different profession.
So with that in mind we live out in the country which was about 2 miles from town. Consequently I never had the chance to play with kids my own age, even after I no longer got sick. Our nearest neighbor was within the town's city limits.
What about the schools? Yes, there was that. Believe it or not, everyone knew me. I was Sora, the great pal. I was the waiting shoulder to cry on when a girl's heart was broken; the buddy ready to listen to your escapades even if they were all lies; the good boy that never uttered inappropriate language; the teachers pet; the star athlete of the Bliztball team. I was the everlasting nice guy that anyone could turn to and tell their deepest, darkest secrets. I was the person that knew everything about everyone and in return no one knew anything about me. Absolutely nothing except oddly enough the boy in my dreams.
The only secret I harbor, now, is that I will grow old and unloved by neither love nor friend. May not seem like much but it is my driving obsession. It causes me to react illogically at times to extreme proportions.
Extreme proportions...need an example? Well...NOW is a very good example. I graduated from a local college a week ago, sold everything I owned, used that money plus the money my parents gave to me for my graduation gift, flew over sea and land to exotic isles to work at a resort doing janitorial work in hopes I can search for the boy in my dreams that may or may not live here let alone exist. But once here, I hear that my only means of financial support has been given to some other anonymous "shmuck" and instead I have a week to lounge at this stupid resort to watch breast implant Barbie dolls and sock stuff'n, beer drinking men strut their stuff. So now, I am left here at the doorstep of this fine establishment's office wallowing in self-pity wondering what the hell I'm going to do now. I guess the up side to all this is I just had to watch a man give me the "news" as he's lighting up a cigarette causing an ex-smoking fan, i.e. me, to want caffeine instead. Why caffeine?
Years ago unbeknownst to my parents I became an unwavering smoker. No reason really. I think I even got up to a pack a day. Then one morning, I decided it was time to trade one poison for a lesser poison and coffee won.
Mmm...coffee...now that I think of it I saw small coffee café just up the street from here. I quickly stand up trying to look dignified whipping my shorts off of any intruding dirt or sand. I look around to see if anyone is around. No one. Good. I whipped the stray tear making a wild run down my cheek. First things first, satisfy my caffeine addiction then plan out my next action. "Good idea, Sora." I nod agreeing with myself. I lazily bring me hands up and over my head to rest behind in a stretching manner. I smile to myself and set off in the new direction.
*******
Riku is carrying Quitis in his arms with little Squall and Tidus following not too far behind. All are heading to the docks on the shoreline just on the edge of the resort.
For no reason Squall suddenly runs up and tackles Riku's leg while he's still holding the other twin. Riku uses all of his strength from toppling over dropping the five-year old girl.
"WHOH!" Riku recovers from his initial surprise to see the little man burying his head Riku's shorts. "Hey, squirt. What's up?" Squall rubs head some more in the loose shorts giggling. Riku face softens watching the little display of affection. The boy has a hard time bonding with people, but when he does he doesn't hold back. Tidus, his parents, me, and Wakka are really the people he feels close to. It always give Riku an uplifting feeling to see the twins smile and generally happy.
A chuckle could be heard from behind them. Tidus soon catches up. He places a hand on Riku's shoulder motioning to hold the blond girl. Once Quitis is in his arms she motions to bring her down close enough to Squall. She whispers into her twin's ear. The young boy nods and looks up at the men. "Sis says she's hungry." The blond man grabs Quitis to him in a smothering hug. "Is that so?" He starts to tickle her a little until she giggles helplessly in his arms. It's music to his ears. "Huh? Can't hear you." She starts to squirm out of his arms looking to escape the merciless attack. Once free, she scrambles behind her twin grinning as she whispers her response. The boy looks up and sticks out his tongue to Tidus. :::naaaa::: "She also says YES, UNCLE TIDUS!!! When do we eat?"
Riku muses at the exchange between the three. No one is sure why Quitis refuses to talk. She will not say a word to anyone other than her brother. Her uncle has a feeling that this probably originates from the strained relationship between her parents, Kiari and the bum licker, Ansem. Everyone knows how the two fight all the time; and without fail Riku is always there to pick up the pieces of his sister's heart. It hurts him to see his favorite little twins suffer too.
Shaking the last of his thoughts away, he decides it's time to get the day moving. "Hey Tidus, watch the kids. I'm going to sign in for one of the boats. It will only take me a bout ten minutes. Then we'll get going to Dolphin Channel and get lunch on for the kiddos." His friend smiles at Riku, "sounds like a plan."
Their tall uncle kneels down between the twins and smooching both of their cheeks then presses his forehead to theirs saying with a semi stern voice, "Be good the both of you and stay here with Uncle Tidus. I'll be back with a boat for us to use." Squall's eyes brighten with excitement, "then we get to see the Dolphins?"
"Absolutely." With that said the silver haired man walks off in the direction of the main office.
Tidus decides to sit in sand with a contented grunt. Quitis instantly uses him to cuddle up to absently sucking her thumb. The young man sighs and bends his head back spotting the other twin behind him. "Squall did you here what Uncle Riku say? "
A scowls crosses the boy's face and yells in a sing song voice, "YESSS."
"Good, stay close little man." Tidus closes his eyes losing himself to the feel of the light cool breeze coming off the sea. Nice. It's going to be a great day. He remains there content and thinking that just for this moment the world is how it should be, perfect. Well, actually, add a beer and a good-looking woman then you'll have a 'Perfect Tidus Moment.'
The blond man doesn't notice the little boy running off into the distance. Squall forgot everything both men had stressed to him earlier. He was on an adventure exploring whatever had caught his attention.
******
I had briefly caught sight of a sign to a coffee café when I initially stepped off the ferryboat. I didn't have time to stop for I was instantly directed to follow one of the men working for the resort. We walked through the local pavilion on the outer rim of the main resort area. All of this of course was leading the worse day of my life. Because soon after I was being told I didn't have a job and would have to return where I came from before the week was out. It didn't take long for me to quickly collect myself and do the next best thing to cheering myself up. I decided it was time to partake in my present favorite drug, coffee. It's probably where half of my headache is coming from.
Casually walking along the path, I notice people were starting to pour through the area even though it was still fairly early in the morning. I like it here, nice people, nice smells, nice weather, all of feels right. If I had to imagine a place where Riku would come from, Destiny Isles would be the place. It suits his personality. I wonder which one he lives on?
:::jingle::: :::jingle:::
The small bell hanging from the frame hales my presence as I walk through the store door. An older gentleman walks behind the counter to greet me. He has a gentle face and laugh lines suggesting to me that this man is content with his life. I like him already. Maybe he owns the place?
"Can I help you young man?"
I move to scan the board hanging behind the counter. It shows the different flavors and types of drinks served. Many I recognize and love. Yet, I always love trying new things however small so 'when in Rome do what the Romans do.' I look at the man's expecting expression. I look back up again but, "Well? I'm not sure. I know half of your menu but I'm really intrigued by your house specials. Any suggestions?"
He smiles. "Do you like chocolate?"
"Um...sure."
"Okay. Are you a sweets fan?"
"Well, I like sweet but not dripping sugar."
"How about fruit flavors?"
"YES." I say excitedly.
"Well, how about the 'Love Potion.'" He notices my frown at hearing the name. He chuckles at me understanding why. "I know it sounds a little silly but I assure you, you'll like this one. It is made from a local fruit that only grows here at Destiny Isles."
My smile grows upon hearing that, "Sold."
He chuckles at himself amused by my antics. "Give me a couple of minutes. How strong do you want it?"
Without missing a beat, "Strong! Please. I had a long flight and they tortured me for ten hours serving nothing but water and juice." I see the man next to the expresso machine smile understanding exactly where I'm coming from.
"So you just arrived here this morning?"
I turn around towards the windows facing the filled streets. I casually watch people go by. "Oh, yes. I came by the ferry earlier from one of the isles." Some thing unusual starts to catch my attention in the moving crowd.
"Here to enjoy the resort?" I barely registered what the man had just said. I automatically answer, "Um...No. Came to work here at the resort but they gave the job they promised me...to...some-one-else..." I forget what I was saying. For a short period of time a parting appears through the mass of people to reveal a young boy sobbing uncontrollably. Instincts take over. I drop money on the counter and quickly walk out of the store. I vaguely remember telling the man to hold the drink and that I would return. He's confused and looks over to see his customer close the door behind him. "Huh?...okay."
No one seems to be paying attention to the distressed boy, a five year old I'm guessing. I crouch down beside him. The boy doesn't notice me yet. I tentatively touch his hands covering his tear-streaked eyes. "Hey, little guy. You okay?" One second it looked like the child wasn't going to respond, but finally opened his eyes to watch me from behinds his knees pressed up against his face.
My hands retreat away from him slowly, hoping that I wouldn't scare the boy. He's still very upset but he's trying to desperately hold back. His attempts were coming out more like gulps. I stroke the tear soaked bangs back away from his eyes. It seems to sooth the little tyke. "What's wrong? Maybe I can help you." I'm still at an arm's length away to give him some space and not feel threatened.
He looks into my eyes for a few minutes then he relaxes visibly and the emotional dam breaks. "I-was-with-uncle-tidus-what-for:::sniff:::uncle-riku- to-get-boat-and-quitis-can-lunch-but-i-got-bored-and-saw-shiny-followed-i- stopped-I-got:::sniff:::sniff::lost-and-now-they're-mad-:::gulp:::at- me:::gulp:::-i-wanna-go-HOMMMMME-I WANT MY MOMMYYYYY! :::SOB:::
Tears were creating new paths down his cheeks. Watching, I could feel my heart breaking at the sight.
I didn't understand most of what he said except the essential. He was lost and very upset. I make a decision. I shuffle closer and bring the helpless boy into my arms holding him protectively. He resisted for fraction of a second and then sags defeated. He snaked his arms around my waist into a hug burying his head into my shirt.
He's so cute. "Don't worry. Everything's going to be okay. I'll help you find your way back. You believe me?"
He shifted his head around to peak up from behind the folds of the fabric. His eyes wide and staring at me full of trust. It shocked me to the bone. God, I hope he isn't like this with everyone. It's good thing I found him first.
"Let's see. First things first. My name is Sora and what is your name?"
"Smuaaaalllmph." A muffled reply came from my chest. I could help but chuckle at that.
"What was that again?"
"Squall." He smiled with his blue eyes shining brightly.
The sight made me smile too. Looks, as though, not all of my day is bad. I stood up taking the boy into my arms. "Okay, let's see if this nice man in here can help us," motioning back towards the coffee shop. "He might even have something like ice cream, maybe?"
"ooooo!"
I walk back inside the small store. The man is waiting for us patiently. Squall shifts restlessly in my arms and shouts with recognition, "Mister Anders!"
"Hey, Squall, I see you're getting into to trouble again. Your uncle is going to be mad." Squall just crosses his arms and huffs in retort. Anders smiles. I watch the two and focus on the older man. "You know him?" pointing at Squall.
"Yes, he's the nephew of one of my employees but today is his day off." He looks directly at Squall again. "You going to see the Dolphins?" Squall just nods and buries his head back into my shirt to hide his embarrassment. "That's what I thought, he mentioned something about it yesterday." Looking at me, "They are probably at the docks getting ready."
:::sigh::: "That's great to hear."
The man continued to stare at the two of us. I wasn't sure what to think about the scrutiny. Was he mad? But he smiled again shook his head. "You know you must be a very good person. That boy doesn't like anyone unless they are as close as family." I look at Squall then I look back up at the man. I didn't know what to say about that and just took it as a compliment.
"That reminds me. Do you by any chance have any ice cream? I'd like to buy a scoop if I could."
"Don't worry. It's on the house and so is your drink," handing my money back. He paused, thinking on what he was going to say next. "You said that you lost your job arriving here this morning, didn't ya?" I nod not sure where this is leading. "So you have any plans on what to do next?"
My shoulders begin to slump noticeably, "Oh...well...I don't' want to leave. I gave up everything to come here so I guess I need start looking for something else tomorrow."
"Then you'll probably be needing this." The man throws something soft my way. I catch it easily without dropping the boy. I open up the fabric and it turns out to be a T-shirt with the store's logo on it. I look back up in confusion. He shrugs and continues with an air of authority, "I expect you to be up here 7 AM sharp. I don't like excuses and I definitely don't like slackers. Think you can handle it?" He looks at me sternly like I was already working for him. Is this man for real?!! I'm overwhelmed and to my shame I think I'm going to cry. This man had just in a few sentences handed me back my dreams.
"YES!! Yes I can...I mean...Uh...thank you, sir. I will be here early. Thank you...um..."
"...Anders. I'm the owner." He smiles. "Nice to meet you..."
"Sora, sir. My name is Sora Evers."
"Nice to meet you, Sora. Next time behave, Squall." He waves his hand dismissing us both.
I walk out of the store with my heart flying high. Squall in riding on my shoulders happily munching on his vanilla ice cream cone. I can't believe this is really going to happen. I'm holding my drink in one hand and tucking my new employee's t-shirt into my belt with the other. I'll be able to stay here and search for my beloved friend. Life can't get any better then this.
I finally take a slip of my coffee drink. WOW. I guess life can.
*****
Tidus is nervously pacing back and forth. He'd only zoned out for a few minutes and during which that little squirt had disappeared.
Normally Squall is smart enough to know not to run off. The blond doesn't have any idea on what to do. Should he wait for Riku who will be here any second or take Quitis with him and start searching for the boy, which of course would freak out Riku even more. Especially returning to find all of us missing. SHIT!
"UNCLE TIDUS!!!!"
Tidus and Quitis both turn in the direction of the familiar shout only to find the little shit riding on the shoulders of a complete stranger. Squall asks to be let down. Once on his feet, the little boy instantly runs up to the two.
The young man looks sternly at Squall. "You know you are not suppose to run off! Riku's going to be pissed!!" Squall pouts and bends his head down in shame. His twin on the other hand is staring straight at the blue eyed stranger. Tidus noticing this and glances at the man as well.
He seemed nice enough. Average height, rich brown hair, and eyes...wow...his eyes were electric blue. They look unreal.
"Um...hi. You are probably wondering who I am?" The strange man offers.
The blond is brought back to the present by the voice. "Well, actually, yeah. Where'd you find him?"
The man looked off to the side, scratching his head, then looks back, "Well, he was very upset in front of a shop I was in so I picked him up and we went searching for his family." Tidus was shocked. Squall actually let this stranger hold him? The boy likes NO ONE, well, minus me, Wakka, and his family. "Oh! By the way, my name's Sora." Holding out his hand to Tidus. Without thought he takes Sora's hand in greeting,
"Tidus." Said in return. Nice guy he thought. "Strange name. Isn't Sora usually a woman's name?"
"Yeah it is. No reason, my parents just thought it would suit me. Personally, I think my parents were smoking something when they named me, but whatever," smiling nervously.
"Well, anyway it was nice meeting you. We've got to get going."
Sora nods, understanding, and walks up to Squall and ruffles his hair. The little boy scowls for a second but soon returns to grinning. Quitis is still staring at the man. Tidus looks at the twins and how they both are smiling. Suddenly an idea popped into his head.
"Hey, Sora! You play Blitzball, any?"
"Heck yeah! Oops sorry." Looking back at the twins. "Why?"
"Well, tomorrow some friends of mine and their uncle are playing. You want to join us?"
Sora is excited about the invitation and took no time to answer. "Sure. When and Where?"
"After sundown at the main pool on the west side of the resort."
Sora smiles at his new friend, "Great. See ya then."
******
I start to walk off in the direction of the resort when I feel something strange on the back of my neck. The sensation is like warm honey sliding down. But after repeatedly wiping, I found nothing there. I tried to ignore it but it kept getting warmer. That's when I hear Squall yeah off in the distance, "UNCLE RIKU!!!"
I stop dead in my tracks at hearing the name. I slowly look back at the direction I had just come from. Could it be? I walked around the corner of a building to get a better look at this 'Riku' person. The feeling's getting stronger. I spotted the other man. Damn was he tall! He was very muscular and very fair. Looks as though his skin has never seen the light of day. Strange hair color too. From over here it almost looks silver. I was about to spin around and leave when the man turned and I saw his eyes.
Two illuminated beads of an incredible green.
Shocked. I was glued in place. All thought processes were still save one.
IT'S HIM!!!! Holy shit!! It's really him!!!
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YEEHOOO!!! Cool. :::sigh::: finished that one. I really like writing this. I've a lot of stuff planned and I PROMISE things will pick up now that I've introduced Riku and Sora. Don't know yet, but I think this fic is going to be about 11 chapters. We'll see. I really don't want to rush it because like I said before there's a lot I want to do. So please be patient.
THANK YOU for all the reviews!!!!!! They make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. :::giggle:::
Parings: Sora/Riku because they rule together.
Warnings: This fic is an AU and a YAOI (which means male/male relationships). R for language, adult behavior, and sexual stuff in later chapters. So, if you feel that this not what you had in mind then please proceed to the next story and do not read mine. Otherwise enjoy and dream of Riku and Sora do some kissing REAL SOON, DAMMIT!
Everyone who reviewed me... THANK YOU!!!! YOU GUYS RULE!!!! It made me feel good about writing the fic. Heh...so anyways, on to the story.
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:::Chapter 2- I Know You:::
"...as I was saying, your position here has been filled. We apologize that we were not able to tell you sooner but you were unavailable.
Unavailable? UNAVAILABLE!?! Are you kidding me? I was on a FRIGGIN' TEN HOUR flight coming here to Destiny Isles!
My body is beginning to shake. It's that feeling of wanting to just break every wall internally and ball your heart out or rip asunder anything in your way like let say this man for instance. I have never been this mad before. What am I going to do now? I'm standing in total shock and the only intelligent words I utter in my defense were "but...But I'm a hard worker. I can do anything you ask me to. There must be something I can do for the resort?" It's obvious that my pleas have no effect on this man.
Man, I need a smoke. It's been years since I have desired one. I guess I'm really upset.
You know what? Just as I think that this asshole brings out a pack right in front of me. Adding insult to injury he reaches for his LAST cigarette and starts to fiddle with it almost like he's taunting me. THAT BASTARD!! Calm down man, he has no idea what effect smoking has on you. Breathe. Geez. I think I'm going to cry if I don't get out of here, soon. I KNOW I'm going to start nicking if I remain.
"Look man, I understand what you're saying but there's nothing left. No jobs. This resort hires 80% of the locals from all the isles and islands that make up Destiny Isles. Most of the higher ups feel the people take precedence over fresh meat coming from outside. I'm sorry it's just the way things are." With that said he finally lights up and takes in his first drag. The man's face is thrown into pleasure.
The way things are? Is this man for real? It's favoritism! How could this happen? I muster what little energy I have left and make my last attempt to reach him, "I was promised a job when I arrived. Please! I beg you!" Now I know I'm really sounding pathetic but I can't help it. This job is critical to my plan. It's the only way I would be able to pull this off. I needed this job to search for him. I can't go back. I refuse. I just can't leave without seeing him, meeting him, knowing he's real, knowing him as a friend, loving him. I'm tired of my dreams. I'm ready for dreams to become reality.
"Hold on...Sora, wasn't it?" I nod my head. "Look, Sora, This is the best that the resort can do to make up for the...inconvenience."
Dammit, he's doing this like I'm some little rich boy about to receive a little piece of candy for the slap in the face. Now I really want to leave. The man continues smoking and relates to me the resort's idea of compensation, "You are welcome to stay the rest of the week as our honorary guest and enjoy our facilities here at the resort." I'm suddenly handed something small and metallic. "Here's your key and the number of your room. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask any of the staff. Enjoy your stay. Thank you very much for your time." He finishes his speech, drops his cigarette, snubs it out with his shoe, and at the speed of light disappears through the door behind him. An audible click of a dead bolt locking into place quickly follows. There it is...finality.
The door is off white with areas where the paint is well worn allowing the wood to show. I stare at it for a few minutes not really thinking. I have just fallen into darkness and this feeling is slowly reaching up and around my heart. My legs gave out from underneath me. But I'm so out of it that I never feel my knees hit the ground. My hands reach my face hoping to hide the shame I feel welling up at the side of my eyes. My world is shattering; I trying to shut away the light. Please don't do it here, not in public. Please don't let them see you cry.
Please...
...please...
...please stay here...
...Sora it's not safe outside, honey. You'll get sick... ...But....
...I'll never have friends...
I remember wanting to have friends when I was very little. I was extremely lonely. My mother was scared for me. I had a problem with getting sick at the drop of a hat. My body for some reason had a hard time fighting off infections. I guess my immune system wasn't anything to brag about. Everything would set me off like going outside or other people...other children. For the first eight years of my life I could have easily have passed as a little girl. My condition made me look delicate. However, once I turned eight, I became healthy and strong and grew out of it.
Thank GOD. I was finally able to live a life of a normal child. But during that time I needed someone to be my friend. My desire was so great that if I could not find someone in life then I would find them somewhere else. I turned to my dreams. I don't remember how or why but it kind of happened. Did I search him out or did he? Who knows, I think that it was a mutual need. Riku needed me as much as I did him.
The first time I entered the dreamscape was when I was very small, maybe around four years of age. I remember hearing the sound of small waves of water gently lapping at my ankles. It was pitch black. I wasn't scared but felt very warm and comforted. Weird when I think of it now, it was the perfect stage for a really great nightmare like the ones movies enjoy showing. I never felt that way.
In the dream I got bored and decided to play a game. One of my favorites was to count my steps. I was just learning how to count. :::splash::: :::splash::: "one" :::splash::: "two" :::splash::: "three..um...three..." :::splash::: :::splash::: "heh.five. five. :::splash::: "Eight.TEN!!" :::splash::: :::splash:::
:::giggle:::
:::?::: "what?"
:::giggle::: "That's not how you count." A second voice joins the darken void.
I'm confused very now. I thought I was the only person here. I turned around wanting to find the owner of the voice. The moment I did I was instantly struck by two pair of green within green eyes. Ooooooo, pretty. Then they began to move. They were coming closer. "Who...who are you?" I ask.
"Na uh. You first."
:::blush::: "Oh...Okay...my name is Sora." I'm a little shy now. See, this was the first child I have met my age. "You?"
"Heh. My NAME is Riku! I can spell it too. R-I-K-U. See!" Now the voice is right next to my ear. "Nice to meet you Sora."
"Nice...to...meet you," I said nervously. But I can't see you I say in a low whisper. However, once the words passed my lips the dreamscape altered instantly. Clouds swam from the edges of nowhere through the sky to meet in the middle just above us. Light started pierce through the clouds creating beams of incandescent gold trailing along the ground. We had to shield our eyes until they adjusted to the abrupt change.
It was the first time I found I was able to manipulate the dreamscape.
The owner of the green eyes looked around in awe. "wow!" Now, it was time for me to get excited. I could finally see Riku or sort of see him. His body was fuzzy but I didn't mind. He soon turned away from the sky and focused on me. "Hey, Sora let's be friends."
My face immediately lit up with uncontrolled excitement. "Yea, I want you to be my friend, too." I said with a wild grin. Suddenly without warning I was pounced upon with a string of giggles and laughter following. I can't begin to express how happy I was at that moment. Riku became the most important person in my life.
We grew up together. We were best friends. At some point it finally dawned on me that Riku thought I was a girl. I never corrected him for fear; fear that he might not want to be my friend anymore. Silly...sure...but as more time passed and it became a null issue, anyways. Why bother screwing with our relationship. I mean I was in my mid-twenties dreaming of my closest friend who I may never see.
We never talked about the real world. Somehow I think the subject scared Riku. I didn't care either way. It didn't matter. There was only one time that he mentioned where he lived. I was so shocked by the information that I never forgot. Destiny Isles. So you could imagine my surprise when I found the cluster of islands appear in a travel pamphlet for vacation resorts. Something dismissible as a little piece of paper changed my life irreversibly.
I made a plan. Compared to everything else, this will go down as probably the craziest thing I have ever done. I used everything possible to get to the islands to spend, if needed, the rest of my life looking for the man I have obsessively dreamt of for all of my life.
Things to do:
:::1:::Put aside my career and drop the job waiting for me after college. It will make me look unreliably to future employers effectively shooting myself in the foot. Who cares.
:::2:::Lie to my parents. Level of difficulty will be great since I never lie. They believe that I am going on a recreational trip and return at the turn of the week; in actuality I plan to stay indefinitely. I know this will hurt them but it's something I have to do.
:::3:::Apply and get a job working at the resort at Destiny Isles thus insuring the ability to stay and search for Riku. Yes.
:::4:::Easy? No, more like real stupid. Idiotic. Brainless. Moronic.
My name is Sora. I'm 26 years old and I have never done anything outside the box. I have always been the good little boy that grew into the meek man I am today. I am gentle and feel someone else's feelings take precedence over mine. If I didn't an outlet for my thoughts and emotions through Sei, Riku's nickname, I imagine I would be past mildly upset and well into becoming clinically depressed. At least that is how I see myself on less forgiving days.
See in the real world nothing is ever out of place in my life. My mother and father were very sweet and understanding parents. My mother breeds professional show irises and distributes the bulbs from the perennials locally as well as nationally. My father on the other hand is an artificial inseminator for local cattle ranches and a few herds over sea. It's a very lucrative business. So what does it mean to be my father? Well...my father is the master of fertilizing heifers through the rectum. In layman's terms he rams his hand into the cow's butt sinking it to his shoulder. Once there he feels around for the ovaries and deposit the bull's spooge. What's even worse is that there is always a moment when fathers want to pass down their knowledge to their only begotten son and I unfortunately was no exception.
"This is very serious work, Sora.I am about to teach to you how to impregnate a cow. Now we will be accessing the ovaries, reaching the mature eggs through the rectum."
"Um dad? I'm not sure if I can really do this."
"Nonsense. Everyone can but only the great ones not only inseminate but also are able to tell how far along the baby is during the pregnancy. So, we'll start with the glove." :::shmack::: "From here we push our hand just past the sphincter and into the butt..." :::squish:::
:::?!?::: cow is definitely awake now.
:::snicker:::
"Did you say something, son?"
"Um...hehe...no, dad. Please continue." :::snicker::: "heh."
"Now watch carefully." :::squish:::
"Moo?" :::stomp in place:::
:::hahahahahahahahahahahahahahah:::
:::squish::: "Son...stop laughing and pay attention. This is the important part." :::squish:::
"Mooo!?!" :::some more stomping:::
:::cough::: "Okay...heh..."
:::squish:::
"Sorry, dad. I'm better, now. Keep going...heh...heheh."
"Come on. This is not a laughing matter...huh...here we go...almost to the ovaries." :::SQUISH:::
"MOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!"
:::HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH:::
I completely lost it that day. Mom had to drag me by the collar into the house so my father wouldn't resort to taking the life of his child. He didn't actually want to kill me but the whole thing was a little much for a 14 year old to handle with any sense of maturity. It was from that moment on that both of my parents felt I should learn a different profession.
So with that in mind we live out in the country which was about 2 miles from town. Consequently I never had the chance to play with kids my own age, even after I no longer got sick. Our nearest neighbor was within the town's city limits.
What about the schools? Yes, there was that. Believe it or not, everyone knew me. I was Sora, the great pal. I was the waiting shoulder to cry on when a girl's heart was broken; the buddy ready to listen to your escapades even if they were all lies; the good boy that never uttered inappropriate language; the teachers pet; the star athlete of the Bliztball team. I was the everlasting nice guy that anyone could turn to and tell their deepest, darkest secrets. I was the person that knew everything about everyone and in return no one knew anything about me. Absolutely nothing except oddly enough the boy in my dreams.
The only secret I harbor, now, is that I will grow old and unloved by neither love nor friend. May not seem like much but it is my driving obsession. It causes me to react illogically at times to extreme proportions.
Extreme proportions...need an example? Well...NOW is a very good example. I graduated from a local college a week ago, sold everything I owned, used that money plus the money my parents gave to me for my graduation gift, flew over sea and land to exotic isles to work at a resort doing janitorial work in hopes I can search for the boy in my dreams that may or may not live here let alone exist. But once here, I hear that my only means of financial support has been given to some other anonymous "shmuck" and instead I have a week to lounge at this stupid resort to watch breast implant Barbie dolls and sock stuff'n, beer drinking men strut their stuff. So now, I am left here at the doorstep of this fine establishment's office wallowing in self-pity wondering what the hell I'm going to do now. I guess the up side to all this is I just had to watch a man give me the "news" as he's lighting up a cigarette causing an ex-smoking fan, i.e. me, to want caffeine instead. Why caffeine?
Years ago unbeknownst to my parents I became an unwavering smoker. No reason really. I think I even got up to a pack a day. Then one morning, I decided it was time to trade one poison for a lesser poison and coffee won.
Mmm...coffee...now that I think of it I saw small coffee café just up the street from here. I quickly stand up trying to look dignified whipping my shorts off of any intruding dirt or sand. I look around to see if anyone is around. No one. Good. I whipped the stray tear making a wild run down my cheek. First things first, satisfy my caffeine addiction then plan out my next action. "Good idea, Sora." I nod agreeing with myself. I lazily bring me hands up and over my head to rest behind in a stretching manner. I smile to myself and set off in the new direction.
*******
Riku is carrying Quitis in his arms with little Squall and Tidus following not too far behind. All are heading to the docks on the shoreline just on the edge of the resort.
For no reason Squall suddenly runs up and tackles Riku's leg while he's still holding the other twin. Riku uses all of his strength from toppling over dropping the five-year old girl.
"WHOH!" Riku recovers from his initial surprise to see the little man burying his head Riku's shorts. "Hey, squirt. What's up?" Squall rubs head some more in the loose shorts giggling. Riku face softens watching the little display of affection. The boy has a hard time bonding with people, but when he does he doesn't hold back. Tidus, his parents, me, and Wakka are really the people he feels close to. It always give Riku an uplifting feeling to see the twins smile and generally happy.
A chuckle could be heard from behind them. Tidus soon catches up. He places a hand on Riku's shoulder motioning to hold the blond girl. Once Quitis is in his arms she motions to bring her down close enough to Squall. She whispers into her twin's ear. The young boy nods and looks up at the men. "Sis says she's hungry." The blond man grabs Quitis to him in a smothering hug. "Is that so?" He starts to tickle her a little until she giggles helplessly in his arms. It's music to his ears. "Huh? Can't hear you." She starts to squirm out of his arms looking to escape the merciless attack. Once free, she scrambles behind her twin grinning as she whispers her response. The boy looks up and sticks out his tongue to Tidus. :::naaaa::: "She also says YES, UNCLE TIDUS!!! When do we eat?"
Riku muses at the exchange between the three. No one is sure why Quitis refuses to talk. She will not say a word to anyone other than her brother. Her uncle has a feeling that this probably originates from the strained relationship between her parents, Kiari and the bum licker, Ansem. Everyone knows how the two fight all the time; and without fail Riku is always there to pick up the pieces of his sister's heart. It hurts him to see his favorite little twins suffer too.
Shaking the last of his thoughts away, he decides it's time to get the day moving. "Hey Tidus, watch the kids. I'm going to sign in for one of the boats. It will only take me a bout ten minutes. Then we'll get going to Dolphin Channel and get lunch on for the kiddos." His friend smiles at Riku, "sounds like a plan."
Their tall uncle kneels down between the twins and smooching both of their cheeks then presses his forehead to theirs saying with a semi stern voice, "Be good the both of you and stay here with Uncle Tidus. I'll be back with a boat for us to use." Squall's eyes brighten with excitement, "then we get to see the Dolphins?"
"Absolutely." With that said the silver haired man walks off in the direction of the main office.
Tidus decides to sit in sand with a contented grunt. Quitis instantly uses him to cuddle up to absently sucking her thumb. The young man sighs and bends his head back spotting the other twin behind him. "Squall did you here what Uncle Riku say? "
A scowls crosses the boy's face and yells in a sing song voice, "YESSS."
"Good, stay close little man." Tidus closes his eyes losing himself to the feel of the light cool breeze coming off the sea. Nice. It's going to be a great day. He remains there content and thinking that just for this moment the world is how it should be, perfect. Well, actually, add a beer and a good-looking woman then you'll have a 'Perfect Tidus Moment.'
The blond man doesn't notice the little boy running off into the distance. Squall forgot everything both men had stressed to him earlier. He was on an adventure exploring whatever had caught his attention.
******
I had briefly caught sight of a sign to a coffee café when I initially stepped off the ferryboat. I didn't have time to stop for I was instantly directed to follow one of the men working for the resort. We walked through the local pavilion on the outer rim of the main resort area. All of this of course was leading the worse day of my life. Because soon after I was being told I didn't have a job and would have to return where I came from before the week was out. It didn't take long for me to quickly collect myself and do the next best thing to cheering myself up. I decided it was time to partake in my present favorite drug, coffee. It's probably where half of my headache is coming from.
Casually walking along the path, I notice people were starting to pour through the area even though it was still fairly early in the morning. I like it here, nice people, nice smells, nice weather, all of feels right. If I had to imagine a place where Riku would come from, Destiny Isles would be the place. It suits his personality. I wonder which one he lives on?
:::jingle::: :::jingle:::
The small bell hanging from the frame hales my presence as I walk through the store door. An older gentleman walks behind the counter to greet me. He has a gentle face and laugh lines suggesting to me that this man is content with his life. I like him already. Maybe he owns the place?
"Can I help you young man?"
I move to scan the board hanging behind the counter. It shows the different flavors and types of drinks served. Many I recognize and love. Yet, I always love trying new things however small so 'when in Rome do what the Romans do.' I look at the man's expecting expression. I look back up again but, "Well? I'm not sure. I know half of your menu but I'm really intrigued by your house specials. Any suggestions?"
He smiles. "Do you like chocolate?"
"Um...sure."
"Okay. Are you a sweets fan?"
"Well, I like sweet but not dripping sugar."
"How about fruit flavors?"
"YES." I say excitedly.
"Well, how about the 'Love Potion.'" He notices my frown at hearing the name. He chuckles at me understanding why. "I know it sounds a little silly but I assure you, you'll like this one. It is made from a local fruit that only grows here at Destiny Isles."
My smile grows upon hearing that, "Sold."
He chuckles at himself amused by my antics. "Give me a couple of minutes. How strong do you want it?"
Without missing a beat, "Strong! Please. I had a long flight and they tortured me for ten hours serving nothing but water and juice." I see the man next to the expresso machine smile understanding exactly where I'm coming from.
"So you just arrived here this morning?"
I turn around towards the windows facing the filled streets. I casually watch people go by. "Oh, yes. I came by the ferry earlier from one of the isles." Some thing unusual starts to catch my attention in the moving crowd.
"Here to enjoy the resort?" I barely registered what the man had just said. I automatically answer, "Um...No. Came to work here at the resort but they gave the job they promised me...to...some-one-else..." I forget what I was saying. For a short period of time a parting appears through the mass of people to reveal a young boy sobbing uncontrollably. Instincts take over. I drop money on the counter and quickly walk out of the store. I vaguely remember telling the man to hold the drink and that I would return. He's confused and looks over to see his customer close the door behind him. "Huh?...okay."
No one seems to be paying attention to the distressed boy, a five year old I'm guessing. I crouch down beside him. The boy doesn't notice me yet. I tentatively touch his hands covering his tear-streaked eyes. "Hey, little guy. You okay?" One second it looked like the child wasn't going to respond, but finally opened his eyes to watch me from behinds his knees pressed up against his face.
My hands retreat away from him slowly, hoping that I wouldn't scare the boy. He's still very upset but he's trying to desperately hold back. His attempts were coming out more like gulps. I stroke the tear soaked bangs back away from his eyes. It seems to sooth the little tyke. "What's wrong? Maybe I can help you." I'm still at an arm's length away to give him some space and not feel threatened.
He looks into my eyes for a few minutes then he relaxes visibly and the emotional dam breaks. "I-was-with-uncle-tidus-what-for:::sniff:::uncle-riku- to-get-boat-and-quitis-can-lunch-but-i-got-bored-and-saw-shiny-followed-i- stopped-I-got:::sniff:::sniff::lost-and-now-they're-mad-:::gulp:::at- me:::gulp:::-i-wanna-go-HOMMMMME-I WANT MY MOMMYYYYY! :::SOB:::
Tears were creating new paths down his cheeks. Watching, I could feel my heart breaking at the sight.
I didn't understand most of what he said except the essential. He was lost and very upset. I make a decision. I shuffle closer and bring the helpless boy into my arms holding him protectively. He resisted for fraction of a second and then sags defeated. He snaked his arms around my waist into a hug burying his head into my shirt.
He's so cute. "Don't worry. Everything's going to be okay. I'll help you find your way back. You believe me?"
He shifted his head around to peak up from behind the folds of the fabric. His eyes wide and staring at me full of trust. It shocked me to the bone. God, I hope he isn't like this with everyone. It's good thing I found him first.
"Let's see. First things first. My name is Sora and what is your name?"
"Smuaaaalllmph." A muffled reply came from my chest. I could help but chuckle at that.
"What was that again?"
"Squall." He smiled with his blue eyes shining brightly.
The sight made me smile too. Looks, as though, not all of my day is bad. I stood up taking the boy into my arms. "Okay, let's see if this nice man in here can help us," motioning back towards the coffee shop. "He might even have something like ice cream, maybe?"
"ooooo!"
I walk back inside the small store. The man is waiting for us patiently. Squall shifts restlessly in my arms and shouts with recognition, "Mister Anders!"
"Hey, Squall, I see you're getting into to trouble again. Your uncle is going to be mad." Squall just crosses his arms and huffs in retort. Anders smiles. I watch the two and focus on the older man. "You know him?" pointing at Squall.
"Yes, he's the nephew of one of my employees but today is his day off." He looks directly at Squall again. "You going to see the Dolphins?" Squall just nods and buries his head back into my shirt to hide his embarrassment. "That's what I thought, he mentioned something about it yesterday." Looking at me, "They are probably at the docks getting ready."
:::sigh::: "That's great to hear."
The man continued to stare at the two of us. I wasn't sure what to think about the scrutiny. Was he mad? But he smiled again shook his head. "You know you must be a very good person. That boy doesn't like anyone unless they are as close as family." I look at Squall then I look back up at the man. I didn't know what to say about that and just took it as a compliment.
"That reminds me. Do you by any chance have any ice cream? I'd like to buy a scoop if I could."
"Don't worry. It's on the house and so is your drink," handing my money back. He paused, thinking on what he was going to say next. "You said that you lost your job arriving here this morning, didn't ya?" I nod not sure where this is leading. "So you have any plans on what to do next?"
My shoulders begin to slump noticeably, "Oh...well...I don't' want to leave. I gave up everything to come here so I guess I need start looking for something else tomorrow."
"Then you'll probably be needing this." The man throws something soft my way. I catch it easily without dropping the boy. I open up the fabric and it turns out to be a T-shirt with the store's logo on it. I look back up in confusion. He shrugs and continues with an air of authority, "I expect you to be up here 7 AM sharp. I don't like excuses and I definitely don't like slackers. Think you can handle it?" He looks at me sternly like I was already working for him. Is this man for real?!! I'm overwhelmed and to my shame I think I'm going to cry. This man had just in a few sentences handed me back my dreams.
"YES!! Yes I can...I mean...Uh...thank you, sir. I will be here early. Thank you...um..."
"...Anders. I'm the owner." He smiles. "Nice to meet you..."
"Sora, sir. My name is Sora Evers."
"Nice to meet you, Sora. Next time behave, Squall." He waves his hand dismissing us both.
I walk out of the store with my heart flying high. Squall in riding on my shoulders happily munching on his vanilla ice cream cone. I can't believe this is really going to happen. I'm holding my drink in one hand and tucking my new employee's t-shirt into my belt with the other. I'll be able to stay here and search for my beloved friend. Life can't get any better then this.
I finally take a slip of my coffee drink. WOW. I guess life can.
*****
Tidus is nervously pacing back and forth. He'd only zoned out for a few minutes and during which that little squirt had disappeared.
Normally Squall is smart enough to know not to run off. The blond doesn't have any idea on what to do. Should he wait for Riku who will be here any second or take Quitis with him and start searching for the boy, which of course would freak out Riku even more. Especially returning to find all of us missing. SHIT!
"UNCLE TIDUS!!!!"
Tidus and Quitis both turn in the direction of the familiar shout only to find the little shit riding on the shoulders of a complete stranger. Squall asks to be let down. Once on his feet, the little boy instantly runs up to the two.
The young man looks sternly at Squall. "You know you are not suppose to run off! Riku's going to be pissed!!" Squall pouts and bends his head down in shame. His twin on the other hand is staring straight at the blue eyed stranger. Tidus noticing this and glances at the man as well.
He seemed nice enough. Average height, rich brown hair, and eyes...wow...his eyes were electric blue. They look unreal.
"Um...hi. You are probably wondering who I am?" The strange man offers.
The blond is brought back to the present by the voice. "Well, actually, yeah. Where'd you find him?"
The man looked off to the side, scratching his head, then looks back, "Well, he was very upset in front of a shop I was in so I picked him up and we went searching for his family." Tidus was shocked. Squall actually let this stranger hold him? The boy likes NO ONE, well, minus me, Wakka, and his family. "Oh! By the way, my name's Sora." Holding out his hand to Tidus. Without thought he takes Sora's hand in greeting,
"Tidus." Said in return. Nice guy he thought. "Strange name. Isn't Sora usually a woman's name?"
"Yeah it is. No reason, my parents just thought it would suit me. Personally, I think my parents were smoking something when they named me, but whatever," smiling nervously.
"Well, anyway it was nice meeting you. We've got to get going."
Sora nods, understanding, and walks up to Squall and ruffles his hair. The little boy scowls for a second but soon returns to grinning. Quitis is still staring at the man. Tidus looks at the twins and how they both are smiling. Suddenly an idea popped into his head.
"Hey, Sora! You play Blitzball, any?"
"Heck yeah! Oops sorry." Looking back at the twins. "Why?"
"Well, tomorrow some friends of mine and their uncle are playing. You want to join us?"
Sora is excited about the invitation and took no time to answer. "Sure. When and Where?"
"After sundown at the main pool on the west side of the resort."
Sora smiles at his new friend, "Great. See ya then."
******
I start to walk off in the direction of the resort when I feel something strange on the back of my neck. The sensation is like warm honey sliding down. But after repeatedly wiping, I found nothing there. I tried to ignore it but it kept getting warmer. That's when I hear Squall yeah off in the distance, "UNCLE RIKU!!!"
I stop dead in my tracks at hearing the name. I slowly look back at the direction I had just come from. Could it be? I walked around the corner of a building to get a better look at this 'Riku' person. The feeling's getting stronger. I spotted the other man. Damn was he tall! He was very muscular and very fair. Looks as though his skin has never seen the light of day. Strange hair color too. From over here it almost looks silver. I was about to spin around and leave when the man turned and I saw his eyes.
Two illuminated beads of an incredible green.
Shocked. I was glued in place. All thought processes were still save one.
IT'S HIM!!!! Holy shit!! It's really him!!!
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YEEHOOO!!! Cool. :::sigh::: finished that one. I really like writing this. I've a lot of stuff planned and I PROMISE things will pick up now that I've introduced Riku and Sora. Don't know yet, but I think this fic is going to be about 11 chapters. We'll see. I really don't want to rush it because like I said before there's a lot I want to do. So please be patient.
THANK YOU for all the reviews!!!!!! They make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. :::giggle:::