Disclaimer: I love this game but sadly I do not own Kingdom Hearts or any of the characters otherwise I wouldn't make loyal gaming KH fans wait until September, 2005 for the sequel on PS2!!! :P
Parings: Sora/Riku because somehow those two belong.
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.
I AM SOOOOO SORRY for the delay!!!!! Figures. When I set a time line and life immediately gives me a big hearty kick to my ass. Which, by the way, I will extend the invitation to everyone that reviewed to take as many pop shots to my butt. I am bending over as we speak. But first, THANK YOU FOR ALL THE REVIEWS (a shit load of them too...whoa), second, Special thanks to Amai Okashi for the beta reading, third, happy belated birthday Kate-chan, fourth, read on...
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:::Chapter 5- Test of Purity:::
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
Uh?
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
What?
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
Oh. My head felt like a heavy stone. I couldn't even think. 'What the hell is that noise?' Through the thick haze of my brain, I focused on the sound.
"Oh."
'Just the damn alarm...the mechanical turd.'
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
"SHUT UP! I'm up already." At a pace set by snails on valium, I proceeded to peel back the covers from my body.
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
I tried to quicken the pace but the sheets were wound really tight.
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
"Rrrr...Fucking A!"
"Having some trouble there, Goldilocks?" A sing song voice sounded off from the direction of my bedroom door.
"Sora?" The question came from the bundle of sheets and bed covers. The brunette began to chuckle from the scene unfolding in front of him which only insured to piss me off.
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
"You need some help there?"
"No, I'm fine." Especially not from that smug imp. What I really needed was to get out of these DAMN SHEETS so I can wipe that smile I KNOW Sora was sporting right now.
Frustrated by my cage made of blankets, I began to frantically thrash all over the bed. Nothing helped and I remained trapped. "RRRRRRRRRRR!"
'He looks like some enormous yeti or something', Sora mused. "Are you SURE you don't need help?" He was now laughing out right at his silver haired friend now.
"Fuck you, Sora!!!" I growled. "When I get free...rrrrrr...you're soo going to get it!!" My threats never fazed the brunette. The more his amusement increased the angrier I became.
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
Finally, Sora took pity on me by shutting off the alarm and untangling the mass of blankets as he leaned alongside the bed. Once they loosened, I pounced. Sora squeaked with surprise and tried to get away but it was too late. 'Hehe, you're mine, Blue Eyes!' I grabbed a hold of his hips and flipped the startled brunette up and over, landing him on his back against the mattress. 'Let the tickle fest begin.'
"Stop Ri..." :::giggle::: "...iku...No, Rikuuuu...:::giggle::: stop." :::giggle::: :::giggle::: "If you don't stop I'll...AAAAAA!" :::giggle:::
All sorts of interesting squeals and giggles could be heard from my captive. Every last one egged me further.
"And what are you going to do, Blue Eyes? Bad things?"
During the whole time I was torturing him, I was swimming in a euphoric sense of pleasant emotions and warm, crawling sensations flashed along my skin. It's something I've come to associate with Sora. At first it was odd. I didn't know what to make of it. I wasn't sure if it was me on a bad day or something very different. I would pick up on similar emotions periodically and other times they were at complete odds with my current mood. But now that he's been living with Tidus, Wakka, and me for a month, I now know that those stray feelings are definitely Sora's. I'm not sure how or why and I don't care. Life has always been on the weird side for me. 'What's another log in the fire?' He has become the closest friend I have next to Sky, which was saying a lot. Sometimes attachments with people scare me; I never get close to anyone if I could help it. There's no reason behind 'why' but just something that's hardwired into my personality. And for some bizarre reason this man before me and the dream image of Sky are the only two who were able to cut through my defenses utterly meeting absolutely no resistance. I trusted them absolutely in every way.
Finally I released Sora. His cheeks were covered with long, wet streaks, evidence from all the laughter. 'Gods, he's adorable.' Breathing heavily, his eyes opened to show two sapphire gems smiling at me. The eyes, the sheepish smile, all of him never cease to amaze me. Would things have been different if he had been female?
"Um, Riku?" A note of urgency in his voice.
'Oh. Right. The original reason he came in here.' I sat up on the side of the bed. "So...am I late?" Sora grins and shakes his head.
"No, just thought your mechanical friend might need some assistance with you this morning." My face must have had a very confused look because the next thing I knew Sora was snickering again at my expense. 'Fucker was messing with me.' I try putting on the most pathetic pout I could muster.
"You mean you care more about the alarm than me?" I bat my eyes. Sora's smile quickly disappears and is replaced with a more somber expression. He studied me without a word. Just as I was thinking I had done something wrong, his smile returns and I feel my heart miss a beat. 'I'm surprised the girls haven't started beating the door down for this very striking blue eyed roommate of ours.'
Lost momentarily in thought, I didn't notice Sora standing over me offering his hand to take. I know it is a simple gesture but it said volumes to me.
Once up, I grabbed my robe on my way out the door and followed him down the stairs. We made a quick stop to the kitchen, grabbing two mugs and a pot full of life, giving essence for two coffee addicts. We maneuvered past two unconscious forms lying within the center of what could be described an explosion of empty beer bottles and loose chips. 'Not surprising really. Yesterday was the release of the new RPG called something Hearts or other. They must have played it all night.'
Grinning maniacally, I paused to watch the two men. Sora, sensing my evil thoughts, shook his head and took a hold of my arm walked us out the front door negating any plans I had of messing with the two drunks. 'Later...Definitely, later.'
We walked out onto the sand and made ourselves comfortable. Sora silently poured the coffee. When he was finished, we angled ourselves towards the sea to face the rising sun. The air was quiet and still. Squinting my eyes, I could see the bare hint of light gradually getting brighter. I sighed contently taking another sip of my coffee. This was nice; this was needed; everything; this had become our morning ritual.
Or mornings together were never planned but started out as a coincidence. During the first week that Sora begun living here at the house, I was having problems with Sky. She and I had had a pretty nasty argument one night. I screamed in anger at Sky and once I realized my mistake I ran. I was so ashamed of myself, of how I acted, of how I treated her. She had honestly asked a question that deserved a real answer and it scared me. I never wanted to think about the future of Sky and me within the dreamscape. Why? It was because I didn't want to have a future without her, so I never wanted anything to change. She was my anchor, my safe harbor. There was no one else I could bare my inner heart to and share unconditionally. So, what did I do fix things between us? Being the 'fuck nut' that I am, I did the most mature thing to do, I avoided her. Yeah, I know. I'm not too smart when comes to dealing with my emotions especially when I am upset and confused.
How did I avoid her? Easy, I have to exhaust myself to the point where when I finally went to sleep I would slip past REM and straight to deep slumber. I was so stubborn; I dragged this out for a whole week. I found random things to keep myself occupied and awake. Oddly enough, the brunette was having a hard time sleeping as well. He told me that it took him time to get use to new places. One morning, I found Sora sitting as we are now staring off into the water. He didn't look too well; sleep deprivation was taking its toll on the both of us. One moment I was watching him in the shadows and the next I was making myself comfortable on the sand beside him. H e never noticed.
"Can't sleep?" My voice, even at a whisper, sharply cut through silence
"Uh!?!"
(Surprise)
Startling him out of his silent communion, he choked on his words. "Oh...Ah...Sorry, Riku...I didn't see you coming." (Confused)
"Would you rather I leave? I didn't mean to bother y..."
"NO!" The brunette quickly shook his head and gave me a small reassuring smile. "No, I'm glad to see you. Please stay." So I did.
Time passed while we sat together. No words passed between us for some time and I discovered that I didn't mind in the least. I felt oddly comforted by his presence.
"So..." Sora initiated.
I tilted my head in his direction, "So." It was still too early in the morning to clearly make out his face but I could tell he was closely watching me.
"Um...so...you having problems sleeping too?"
I looked away and didn't answer immediately. 'Should I lie? I don't think he would appreciate it if did and some how I think he would know.'
There has always been a strange connection between us. I don't know if he feels it too but I won't ever mention it. I think it might make him uncomfortable. 'The truth then.'
"This may sound weird but...I'm trying to avoid someone."
"Really? Any reason?" He was neither surprise nor requested further explanation. Sora took what I said at face value and continued. I was a little shocked and relieved by his reaction or lack there of.
I took a big breath and slowly released the tension that I had been holding within my heart for the last few days. I told him all about Sky, minus the dreamscape aspect, and how we'd known each other all our lives. I explained how special she was to me, how we'd fought over, well, 'our' future and that I'd been avoiding her and why I was terrified. Sora sat quietly, his eyes never leaving me, and listened to my every word without interruption. When I finished, I waited for his response. Disgust? Accusation?
Sora took in a deep breath and left it out as a slow sigh. He broke eye contact and turned to face the sea and my eyes followed his line of sight.
"Riku, I once thought like you...you know, about the future. I thought it was best to leave the 'now' as it was. I wanted my future to remain like a perfect statue frozen in time forever capturing its beauty. Why fix it if it's not broken? But I've changed; I'm not like that anymore."
Sora paused admiring the vast expanse of the open waters while collecting his thoughts. He reminisced for a moment and then focused his exquisite sapphire colored eyes on me. "How to put this..." His smile was gentle and reassuring. "Take everything in life that makes you happy and sad, together they shape you. A part of you changes each time you are touched by either one. This change is not static. It moves us forward. Without it we never feel despair but we also never appreciate the joy either. The future is like a path we walk upon. Not everything on the road is good but not everything is bad either; it's what makes you who you are. You give up and cease moving along the road to avoid the pain you may also pass up the chance to experience what else is wonderful in life. You may never be able to rectify any mistakes you make in the past but you can use that knowledge to not repeat it again." Sora reached over and lightly touched my hand. "I'll tell you a secret. You remember when I told you I had a friend I desperately wanted to see?"
I nod.
"Well, I decided to never reveal my presence here to them."
My back stiffened in response to his declaration. I was shocked. 'How could he?' "Why, Sora?" I asked.
He risked so much for friend of his and for him say that he was purposely letting them go without word was somewhat alarming. I never pried but had wondered what had happened with all that.
Sora continued, "I know that it is a mistake but it's mine to make and I will live with it and continue." The brunette gave my hand one more squeeze before he released it. "The reason for me coming here is not the same for me staying here and I'm cool with that. My choice, or mistake if you want, has made me happy in a different way. I've found new friends and I like living here with you."
I stopped at his last statement. 'You like living with me?' I felt my face start to burn. 'Shit. I'm blushing.'
"The pain hasn't gone away but I still move forward. I'm content."
I was speechless. I don't think he really expected me to reply. I thought about Sky and what she meant to me and how she made me feel. I thought about what Sora was trying to say to me. His words siphoned off all the stress and fear leaving me empty and warm. "Thanks Sora. You're words helped. I can't believe I have you as friend." I dropped my head onto my knees and a low whisper, "Thanks."
"Shut up, Goldilocks and watch the sunrise." The ongoing joke made me feel better so I happily obeyed his command.
The light coming from the far horizon was growing brighter paving the way for the rising sun.
"Sora..."
"Hmmm?"
I choked on a small laugh. "You're not going to believe this but, this is my first sunrise." Sora's brow dips down slightly into a frown then he gives me the most attractive heart felt smile I've seen yet.
"Then I'm glad I was here to enjoy it with you."
That's when watching the morning sun became our morning tradition.
So here we were, sitting together, clothed in half robes and boxers, and sipping coffee taking part in our morning ritual. The sound of the waves continuously washed ashore made for the perfect, background music. We patiently waited for the sun to break the barrier of the horizon spilling forth the first rays of light heralding the new day. I could barely see the shadow outline of Seagulls sweeping to and fro, swooping periodically into the water catching breakfast. A sudden chuckle sounded off pleasantly sending a shiver rippling through my body.
My brow arching I looked over to my friend. Sora's smile deepened and pointed at the small, long, legged birds running along the edge of the waves washing a shore. I never really thought much of these birds; how they would race forward then retreat only to begin again. I glanced at Sora again.
His smile and brightly lit eyes caused warm honey laden shivers to run down my neck. This reaction was not unusual where the brunette was concerned and even though I never spoke of it, I've become accustomed to the sensation and welcome it.
However, I admit at first, it freaked me out. I thought maybe I was becoming gay or something. I've had many chances to enjoy the pleasured company of assorted female beauties since his arrival and not once did I feel anything towards other males. THANK GOD. I think, maybe, it had to do with Sora and I becoming best friends as fast as we did. Sora was the first person I've gotten this close to outside of Sky. Sky and Sora are both very dear to me and since I'm in love with Sky that it makes sense that I would confuse my feelings towards Sora with my feelings for Sky. Yeah. I was just confused.
"Hey Riku. Can I ask you a question?"
"I don't know, can you?"
Sora glares at me. "MAY I ask you a question?"
I start to grin despite my best efforts to conceal, earning a deeper scowl from the brunette. "You could but I MAY not answer." Now Sora was growling in irritation. You could almost mistake him for a dog or something. The idea was so amusing to me that I began to chuckle. We stayed that way for a couple of seconds; him staring at me in disbelief and my laughter growing to the point of pain then I was pounced.
"God. You are SUCH a prick!"
(Excitement) (Happiness)
Sora tried to tickle me. Tried is the operative word since there was no doubt that I was infinitely the stronger of us two. However, it was fun to let him believe that he had a chance.
I then turned the tables when Sora had his fun and flipped him onto to his back, instantly giving a grunt from the impact. I pinned him, completely immobilizing his body. He struggled against me; nothing he did help. Eventually Sora submitted. His sapphire eyes watched me intensely and something deep and familiar stirred within my heart. I couldn't move. I was entranced. I found myself moving closer to him...closer to his lips. 'NO! Something's wrong with me.' I quickly got off of Sora and immediately placed a substantial amount of distance between us. I sat there panting trying desperately to make sense of my confusion. (bewilderment)
"Um, Riku are you okay?"
I quickly composed myself. 'Sky and him were just too much a like. That's all it was.' "Huh? Yeah. Um..." I tried to throw on my best mask hoping he would fall for it. He's really unnerving sometimes how he's able to read me. I look again to Sora, "What was your question?"
The young man starred at his silver haired friend and was about to ask then changed his mind and asked something else. "Well, you know your sister..."
"Right...What about her?"
"Well, I was wondering if Wakka and she were an item at one point." Now I really started laughing.
"Riiikuuu. What's so funny?" Sora punched my shoulder.
I sobered. "Sorry Blue Eyes, it's just that since they could walk Wakka has ALWAYS had a thing for Kairi. Please don't ask anymore. It's not that I don't trust you, quite the opposite. It's just that it's their story to tell." The brunette seemed to understand. I stood up and reached out for Sora's hand. A non-descript emotion played across his face. It was too fast for me to decipher. I quickly hoisted him up onto his feet. "We should be getting ready to leave for work soon."
Sora just nodded and smirked. "Race ya." He took off not waiting for my reply. Frowning at the little beast I darted after him, my long legs swiftly closing the gap.
"Soraaaaa!" Growling with a hint of amusement, "When I get you.....!!!"
The two racing figures retreating as fast as the sun rose above the water giving light to the darkness before.
--------------------------------------------
"Sora warm-up the machines and finish the rest of the prep work. When you're finished, you shouldn't have any problems running the store while Riku and I are gone."
"Mr. Anders, are you sure you don't need any help?" Sora asked while chewing the inner wall of his bottom lip. A nervous habit he picked up recently, the older man mused.
He watched the younger man move across the store preparing everything necessary. The store owner still marveled at how quickly Sora had picked up the business. 'I would never trust a new employee alone to run the store, but true to his initial impression, Sora had proven to be completely trustworthy. The brunette did nothing but reinforce it.
"I'll return before noon with most of the supplies we need."
"Can't you wait a day, so I can help you bring everything back here?"
Mr. Anders softened from the young man's concern. 'I know he's worried but he also gets antsy when Riku isn't here. He's not even aware that he does.' The owner scratched his chin deep in thought. 'I should think that that their friendship slightly strange but at the same time it had an irrefutable rightness attached to it.'
"No. I need this done today. It cannot wait, especially since the rain will be here very soon...Relax." He said in a soothing voice. "Everything will be delivered by the people I'll be buying from."
Sora sighed in relief. He was worried about the older man handling the goods without assistance. "Is the rain really THAT bad?"
:::jingle::: :::jingle:::
"They're not necessarily monsoons but they do get heavy." He holds open the door momentarily, "Well...I'm off."
"Bye." Sora waved goodbye as he watched the man disappear into the crowd outside.
:::jingle::: :::jingle:::
He dropped his hand and greeted the first customer for the day.
--------------------------------------------
I lean up against the lamp post. Wakka and Tidus were both on either side of me not really saying much. 'Probably still pretty tired from last night.' I grin at the picture of two grown men acting like children playing until dawn.
"So was it worth it, Ox boy?"
The red head scowled as a yawn escaped. "Shut up, Riku. Tidus and I have been waiting for the release of Kingdom Hearts II for a year now. So give it rest, ya."
My grin turned feral when he said that. "See? That's my point exactly. Who in the hell waits for a fucking game for a whole year. One...whole...year, guys. One year for a game. A GAME..." He and Tidus are the biggest geeks that I have ever known.
"Fuck you, you silver mop of an excuse for hair." The blond was awake enough to respond. "You're just jealous."
"What?!?" I almost choked on my words. "Jealous? One: Tidus I think you need more coffee because your name calling needs work and two: Jealous? You're fucking hilarious. To be sprawled on the floor passed out without a girl next to me and a game is the reason. Well, that's just plain sad."
"Man, Riku. What's got you riled this morning? You normally wait to bite Tidus' and my head for later in the day, ya."
"YEAH!" Tidus chirped in agreement.
I stopped for a moment. 'Am I really being an ass more than usual? I've had sleep. I'm not hung-over. Sky's not pissed at me, so...huh...no sex. It's been almost a month. Yeah, I'm sex deprived.'
I look apologetic to my two friends, "Sorry guys. I guess it's been a while for me." I leave my statement open hoping they read between the lines to figure out what I really meant.
"Yeah, you've been all but celibate, dude. It's not like you." The blond smiles. "We may even get away without a cat fight at Cloud's mega-party of the year." Wakka nods but doesn't add anything.
My mood lightens. "Yeah, we'd have a real tragedy on our hands. No ex- girlfriends begging for this hot piece of man meat. Don't you agree Wakka?" I ran a finger down the redhead's neck hoping for a reaction. I got one all right.
--------------------------------------------
I felt the plaster surface through my shirt. Some of my shorter locks were slipping into my face annoying the hell out of me. I've already retied my hair four times this morning. Maybe I should cut it, I thought absently. It still hurt a little. "Damn, Wakka. That's a mean hook you have there." I massaged my sore jaw to emphasize my point.
"Shut up you girl." Tidus' eyes twinkled mischievously. Just as I was about to attack him I felt a sharp tug on my ear.
"OW ow ow ow ow ow."
"Behave, you heathens." A new voice spoke behind me.
"He started it!" Both Wakka and Tidus declared.
"Traitors." I growled but Mr. Anders gave my ear another sharp tug before he released. I rubbed my ear vigorously. My frown soon turned to a grin when I saw the old geezer. I couldn't help it; he was my second father...well...technically my third since Cid is my second.
Mr. Anders puffs on his pipe regarding all three of us with a smile. "So did you all have to wait long?"
"Na, man. Only been ten minutes."
The older man nodded and reached into his pocket pulling out a substantial wad of cash. "Good. Here's the money for the kegs. You'll have to front the rest for food and what not." All three of us were still gawking at the amount he was giving us for the alcohol. He's NEVER spent this much on any of us! A part of me was upset but the better part me calmed me down and reminded me of whom this is for. "Sora's running the store right now so there's no chance of him seeing you."
I nod. "Yeah, Kairi said that she would occupy him once he gets off work. So we'll be free to get everything together for tomorrow night. He's going to be up to his ears busy with the two, chibi sized devils. So...no worries there." I wink.
Mr. Anders took another long drag from his pipe. He lazily exhaled the smoke while smiling at all three of us. He warmly gripped my shoulder. "Well, gentlemen, I leave you to it. Riku, don't forget to scout for the paopu trees."
"Sure thing, Anders." With that he left. I turned to Tidus and Wakka, "Well?"
"Let's do it, ya."
"Ya." I echoed with a smile. "Sora's definitely going to be surprised."
--------------------------------------------
I sat on the couch staring at the game Wakka and Tidus were busy playing. 'Believe me, if there was something else I could be doing I WOULD, but we had finished preparations early and all was ready for the party tomorrow. Selphie was over earlier to help with the food provisions. All we had left was the cake. Kairi said that she and mom had that covered. All was well and Sora the less wiser. Thank God that I had a chance to talk to his parents when he wasn't around. They happily answered many of my questions.'
I caught a gentle breeze brushing across my face coming through the open windows. I tilted my head back and let myself relax to the caress. It always reminded me of Sky's hand brushing down my cheek. 'Sky...she and Sora are...huh...nope that's absurd. By the way, where is Blue Eyes? I've been waiting long enough that this game is starting to look pretty interesting.' Wakka and Tidus finally had their fill of the game and went into Tidus' room to play on the internet. 'To look up porn, most likely.'
I sighed again. I hated waiting. Suddenly the warm honey oozy feeling returned. 'Sora's home!' I stood up excitedly. 'Man, I'm sounding like a love sick teenager.' But I decided not to analyze that thought any further. I hastily walked over and opened the door to a pair of widened azure gems. 'Heh, looks as though I startled him.'
Sora looked drained. Heck I would be to if I had spent all afternoon with the twins. I gave him a sympathetic look, knowing from experience how much his nephew and niece could wipe you out.
Currently the twins were attached to Sora's person. "Come here squirt." Making for a motion to Squall to release the man's neck and come down. For a second, Squall appeared to think better but he soon relented and fell into my arms instantly hugging my chest. It was his favorite way to show affection. Quistis, on the other hand, looked at me with a smile but remained fastened to Sora's leg.
I gave my sister a wink and a quick kiss making her giggle. "Well, did you get everything you needed done today, Kairi?" I asked.
She smiled weakly. "Yeah. 'Uncle Sora' was big help. Riiiight Kids?"
"YEAH!!!!" The pair yelled in unison at the top of their lungs.
"Wakka's here, you want me to get him?" I offer.
"No, we need to get going. Tell him I said hi."
"Will do." Placing Squall on the floor. "Well, good night you two." Grabbing both twins into my arms, I gave them a tight hug and sloppy kisses. I turned to Kairi and hugged her, kissing lightly on the cheek. "See ya, sis." in a barely audible whisper.
Sora and I watched them drive away leaving us on the porch in the dark.
(Weary)
He was worn out. "Come on." I said in a gentle voice. "You look like you could use a beer." His eyes brightened at my suggestion.
(Gratified) (Joy) (Tired) So many emotions seemed to be coming from my friend, tonight.
"Thanks Riku. That sounds great."
--------------------------------------------
Two beers later...Pssssht...I hand another one to Sora. He looked better, less stressed. I'm glad. I don't like seeing him like that.
The brunette exhaled a hearty sigh and dramatically flopped his body against the kitchen counter. I waved my hand at the direction of Tidus's room. "You know, they have been awfully quiet since you got back. Let's go see what the bums are up to."
We both stood up at the same time. I reached out to ruffle Sora's bangs making sure they were thoroughly messed up when I finished. He shot me a dirty glare promising any more and I'm in a world of hurt.
:::chuckle:::
I locked my hand on Sora's neck and steered him in the direction of the blond's room. "Come on blue eyes."
--------------------------------------------
"Did you find one yet?"
"No...Um...Yeah." Tidus beamed at what his search found. "I've pulled up at least thirty. Which one do you want?"
The red haired man looked at the computer screen for a few minutes then shook his head and sat back drinking deeply from his freshly opened beer. Scratching his head, Wakka turned to face Tidus, "I don't know. What's the difference?"
Frowning, the blond went back to scroll through the multitude of results. This lasted for a few minutes. Satisfied, he finally he leaned back, "Mm...I believe it has more to do with the amount of questions asked. The more asked the more perverted the questions become." He points to the screen, "See here? There's a 100, 500, 1000, or 5000 questions total. How many do you want to answer?"
Before Wakka responds, both hear an all too familiar voice break the silence.
"Yo assholes!"
"In here fucker!!! Tidus returns without breaking his vision from the computer screen, "We heard the door earlier. Bring Sora with you too!"
The door opened. Sora, looking very doubtful, and I, grinning like fool, walked into the room. 'I kind of have an idea what the two are up too. Tidus has been talking about it non-stop for the last two days, ever since an internet pin pal told him about it.' Once inside, I looked for a suitable place to drop the case of beer I'm holding. I shrugged my shoulders and decided 'where ever' was perfect. The case hit the floor and made a load reverberating thud grabbing the attention of everyone in the room. Tidus was ecstatic.
"Yes!! You rule Riku. We ran out of reserves not too long ago."
"I figured as much." I said as I reached over grabbing two bottles and handed them to the two men sitting in front of the computer. Content, I threw myself down onto a large bean bag stuffed in the corner. 'It's not much of a chair but what can I say, it does the job.' Sora looked a little lost looking around the room. It dawned on me that even though he's lived with us for a while now, this was the first time to be in Tidus' room. I motioned him to pull up a chair to sit behind Wakka and Tidus.
Pshhhht. Tidus handed the opener to Wakka. Pshhhhht. Wakka offered the opener to Sora. Sora took it giving his thanks immediately afterwards. Pshhht. Wakka smiled then looked to me, "Maybe you should take lessons from Sora, ya."
Raising my brow, "Mmmm..what's that?" Pshhhhht. I placed the opener on the floor after I finished using it.
Tidus spoke without break eye contact with the computer, "I think what Oxboy is trying to say is that Sora here has demonstrated more manners in the last few seconds then you have ever in the last 20 years."
I narrowed my eyes at Tidus then quickly calmed down and shrugged. "So what's the agenda today, geek boy?"
Tidus ignored my taunt and talked to Sora instead. "Yo Sora, we're looking up some purity tests. You want to take one with us. They're pretty humorous."
The brunette looks confused. "Purity test?"
I swig the last of my beer, discard the empty bottle haphazardly, and grabbing its replacement. Psshhhht. "Is that what you guys are looking up?"
"Purity test?" Sora is still confused. "What's that?"
All of us stared at the brunette, smirking wickedly. Sora started to feel uncomfortable with the scrutiny and wished desperately he was some where else. He pictured himself a small rabbit in front of three very hungry lions. He shivered despite himself.
Interesting. 'I thought everyone at least had heard of the purity test in some fashion or other. Makes me wonder.' I got comfortable and waited to see how things would unfold. 'This may turn out to be a very informative night about our brunette roommate.'
Wakka spoke first to Tidus, "Bring up a 500 question one."
"Yup." Tidus in flash went to work pulling up the next site on the internet.
Sora man twisted around to look at me, his eyes a deep swirl of baby blue and deepest sapphire, "Um...Riku...what's this about?"
"Hehe, Sex, my short friend. All about sex." My blatant remark got the exact reaction I desired. I could see from here the blush spreading like wildfire up his neck and covering all of his face. Snickering to myself, 'This is going to be fun.'
"Wha...What do you mean, sex?!?" Sora exclaimed. No one answered him. Finally Tidus looked up and made to switch places with Sora. The brunette hesitantly took his chair and asked, "What do I do?"
Tidus smiled and reassured him with a pat on the back. "Just sit here and answer each question. When you're done the site will tally your answers and give a score. I'll tell you later what the score means." Sora moved to say no but Tidus shook his head, "Don't worry. It won't bite. They are just a bunch of 'harmless questions."
Sora frowned but sits quietly in front of the computer and begins to read the page and contents.
The next several minutes proved to be most entertaining. The brunette was totally unaware that he was mumbling out load. He recited some of the questions supplied with his reaction if not his actual thoughts on the subject. At some point I was in tears rolling all over the floor along with Tidus and Wakka.
--------------------------------------------
HAVE YOU EVER...
1-...kissed a friend or stranger on their hands/ neck region as a friendly gesture? "Sure. Who hasn't? Family. Duh."
3-...held hands with someone? :::humph::: "Whatever. Next question."
7-...gone steady? "........"
34-...shared a bed, sleeping bag, or sleeping accommodations with someone without anything steamy happening? "Does drinking hot chocolate count?"
65-...secretly lusted after someone without that person knowing? "Hell yeah! I am MAN. But some of them really never needed to know that."
:::huh?:::
100-...fantasized about anyone and masturbated at the same time? "Um, that's kind of a personal question."
:::They get worse:::
:::Shut up, Wakka!:::
:::Is he for real?:::
:::snicker:::
:::I think Sora was raised in a church.:::
:::Like THAT means anything.:::
320-...bought blatant sexual objects? (This means that if you buy a bottle of pop and use it as a dildo, it doesn't count. Think design and function.) "Design and function...function...oh my!"
:::snicker:::
:::Getting warmer:::
:::snicker:::
362-...intentionally listened in on other people having sex, oral sex, or mutual masturbation without their knowing it? "Is it me or is it getting hotter in here."
:::Tidus...:::
:::Hey! It was only that one time. Take your girlfriends somewhere besides my room when you feel the urge, Riku.:::
:::I think Riku is French for slut:::
:::you're just jealous Wakka:::
412-...urinated on someone else intentionally? "........That's weird."
:::Riku:::
:::Riku:::
:::Fuck you both.:::
413-...stored any excretia in a refrigerator, oven, or any food storage/ preparation appliance? "THAT'S SICK!"
:::cough:::
:::Dude! No way!:::
:::That's fucking sick!:::
428-...inserted your finger into your rectum? "?!?"
430-...eaten food after it was extracted/ evacuated from your or someone else's anus? "What the...?!?!"
:::?!?:::
:::?!?:::
:::zzzzzzz:::
437-...been involved in group sex? (Four or more people, partner must be exchanged.) "Wow."
:::Mmmmm, yeah.:::
:::Shut up, Riku.:::
:::Shut up, Riku.:::
480-...practiced klismaphilla (a dependency on being given an enema)? "Holy cow."
:::There's a word for that?:::
"Last question."
500-...practiced in a fuck-a-thon? (Where the object is to see how many times you can do it in a certain amount of time.) "!!!!!"
:::The dream...:::
:::My goal...:::
:::Holy shit his nose is bleeding.:::
:::Fuck, that's a lot of blood.:::
:::Shut the fuck up Wakka and get Sora a towel:::
--------------------------------------------
I held Sora in my arms leaning his head back against my shoulder. "Pinch your nose...Good. It should stop pretty soon." His blue eyes were looking at me passively. The look of complete trust moved me. I shifted my arm slightly to gently brush aside some stray bangs away from his eyes. "So what did you think of the test?"
"Huh? Oh, it...was...interesting."
Wakka wandered back into the room with a watered down rag and a dry towel. Sora gladly accepted them both and sat up to wipe his face and clothes of stray blood. I continued to sit behind him. Tidus was still busy tallying the score. "So?" I urged.
Tidus didn't even acknowledge my inquiry. "Holy shit! Guys take a look. Didn't think that was even possible." Wakka leaned over the blond's shoulder. The redhead's mouth droped wide open without a peep and stayed that way stunned. Now, I was curious. I followed suite and walked over to view Sora's score. When I read the numbers I exclaimed, "No way!"
Now the brunette was curious, "What? What does it say?"
Wakka was still speechless. Tidus mumbled under his breathe so only Wakka and I could hear, "The score represents how sexually experienced or inexperienced he is. Guys...He hasn't had sex."
"A twenty six year old cherry. Didn't think they existed." Wakka chimed much louder.
Tidus started to laugh, "Yeah, last one was probably during the Dark Ages."
Sora was getting pissed with every statement. A rich tomato color flared all over his body.
Taken with the running joke I laughed half spoke, "Heh...By the looks...heh...probably hasn't even kissed." At that all three of us busted out laughing. Sora was spitting like a pissed cat giving the illusion of mange raised all over his back.
"Yes...yes I have!!!!" He protested. No matter how much force he put behind his words something inside of me screamed 'LIE'. That's when an evil thought crossed my mind.
I gripped the brunette's chin instantly rendering him still. Smirking, "There's only one way to find out..." once the words were floating in the air between us I launched forward taking advantage of his confusion and claimed his lips. He instantly went rigged. The moment our lips touched, I felt an explosion of pure emotion. I was swimming in a pool of confusion, desire, fear, longing, anger, shock. Within all that there was one single thought burning in the fore front. 'My first kiss!?' He relaxed into the kiss and a small whimper escaped his lips. It was so quiet that he and I were the only ones who heard. I slowly released his mouth and looked down into his eyes. Sora's eyes...Gods...they were a bottomless pit of languid blue. Then a new thought sifted to the surface of my dense brain, 'what did I just do?'
At exact same moment Sora woke. The spell was broken. He suddenly hurled himself as far away as possible from me. He used so much force that he toppled off the bed landing hard against the room's opposite wall.
'Dammit. That's was his first kiss, ever. And I stole it as a joke. I'm such an asshole.' My face slipped into its favorite mask and I tried to make light of the trespass I just made. "Judging by THAT reaction, I was right."
Tidus slapped Sora on the back, "Yeah, that fucker has kissed me five times, now."
"Heh, I have a gag reflex every time, the pervert." Wakka made motions of throwing up.
Sora began to smile which soon turned to true laughter. I felt a little better. Tomorrow, I'll make it up to him with the party.
--------------------------------------------
Sora had been hanging out with his tall, silver haired friend all day. They didn't do anything extraordinary but the brunette enjoyed every minute. Sei/ Riku were special to him and he would take them both in any form he can. So when the day came to a close, Riku suggested returning to the house and maybe go for a nice midnight swim in the ocean. He never once questioned any of it, not even when they parked Riku's four-wheeler beside the house. The only odd thing was the stray emotions that kept brushing against the surface of his mind. Sora couldn't explain. One moment he was calm and content then the next he felt excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. When they made it to the front door, he had to strain his blue eyes to see the handle, let a lone the lock.
The young man knew at times he seemed like an oblivious dunce but he did pay attention. However, everyone had their days where they were off and what was about to happen next absolutely fallen in that category.
So when he entered the house and turned on the lights, he turned and froze.
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!"
--------------------------------------------
It took all my acting skills to keep the surprise from Sora.
I was instructed by my sister and roommates to keep Sora out all day long and return when it gets dark. It was a tall order considering that was from sunrise to sunset but I'm not complaining. 'I love spending time with him. He's a great friend and to be perfectly honest, I don't remember what life was like before he started living with us at the house.
To keep him busy, we didn't have to do anything special. I spent the whole time boating the two of us around. I stopped to show him one of the smaller Isles I was scoping out the day before for the poupi trees that might have matured enough to harvest. He was awe struck. Who can blame him, that Isle is breath-taking. When I do decide to settle down, this would be the place I would want marry.
Clear blue skies, calm waters, and perfect temperatures, Sora was beside himself. It was like rediscovering the wonders and beauty through his eyes for me. My head was spinning with all the other places that I was dying to take him to, like where we can swim with the dolphins, the secret place during my childhood, or like the Hanu Isle where my branch of the local natives lived. My tribe was the more obscure one and cannot be mistaken for any of the others. It was the physical traits like great height and the white, stark like hair. I told Sky once about them in passing and she said that the tribe sounded like a bunch of ethereal beings in the flesh. Sora said much the same.
When we finally returned, Sora was blissfully unaware of any under goings. I trailed behind him the whole time barely containing my excitement. It was totally by chance I caught a call made by Sora's parents when Sora was out. They informed me that it was going to be his birthday in week and that they wanted to wish their son well. They sounded really nice. I hoped maybe some day I can meet them.
Once the initial surprise was sprung, everyone bombarded the blue eyed man with food, cake, gifts, drinks, and definitely more drinks. Sora was astounded and the whole time he looked like he was about to break out the water works. He seemed to be so happy and the image filled my chest with warmth and joy.
Everyone was here tonight, Kairi and the twins (thank f'in God that Ansem wasn't with them), Mr. Anders, Wakka and Tidus (of course), my parents (Cid and Mom), Cloud, Selphie, Irvine, and some other people that Sora had only met in passing (he without a doubt makes a lasting impression). The party went in a blur. I lost track of Sora at some point. Mom, Cid, Kairi and the kids had to leave at some point since it was the twins' bedtime. It made me happy that Kairi sincerely liked Sora. She usually isn't too fond of my friends I've made in the past. Once they left, the party started to change and the real drinking began.
At some point I spied Mr. Anders doing a shot challenge with Wakka. I never would have believed that old man had it in him. It's going to be so much fun later when we begin to fuck with Wakka's unconscious body. As of this moment, the redhead's underwear was in the fridge to be frozen for later use. Tidus' idea and I didn't ask.
If I had to sum it up, everyone was talking and having a great time. That's when I believed it was time to search out the birthday boy and see how he was fairing. Last time I saw him he was stumbling out back with two drinks in hand.
It didn't take long. I found him sitting against the house on the back porch talking with Selphie and Irvine. I joined the group and fell into light conversation ranging from clothing styles and how every year they seem to find the worse styles to bring back to parents not stepping up to plate and relying on others to raise and discipline their children for them. This is one huge soap box of mine.
"Look. I'm just saying that the times are different. There's more work people have to do and less time to do them. So I can see why the parents fall behind with their children."
"That's bullshit!" I leaned forward aiming my finger right at Irvine to emphasize my point. "I was raised by a single mom for three years and she MADE the time for me even when there wasn't time. So that single parent 'thang' is just a lame excuse for laziness."
Irvine threw up his hands in defeat. "Okay. Okay. I see your point." He looked to Selphie sitting beside him grasping her hand and they both exchange a nod.
The couple stood up. Selphie bent forward to hug Sora and I. "Great party Riku and Happy Birthday, Sora."
Irvine tipped his hat to Sora and I, "Later guys," and left.
Sora and I sat in silence for a couple minutes. We both were pretty drunk. My eye sight was starting to blur.
I tilted my head towards Sora, "So Sora..."
He titled his in kind, "So..." His eyes were glazed over and had a lop-sided grin. 'Yeah, definitely drunk.'
He looks adorable. "So did you like the party?"
"Bshhhhh...how yous know it wash my Birthshday?"
I smiled at his slurring, "Parents called last week and they told me. They thought you might want to celebrate with friends."
His smile strengthened. He's beautiful when he's happy. "Yeah. It is thesh best Birthday ever...Thanks Sei."
All time ceased moving for me when I heard Sky's nickname for me. I must have heard wrong, being drunk and all. "Sorry, I didn't hear you. What did you say?"
He clumsily turned his whole body towards me, "I said, thanks Sei. I loved thesh party."
I sobered instantly and grabbed Sora's shoulders a little too hard and shook. The brunette winced from the vise like grip. His eyes grew wide with fear and confusion. Barely able to keep my voice from shouting in anger, "How do you know that name? Answer me! How do you KNOW the name, SEI?"
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I promise I will not have such a HUGE time lapse again. So PLEASE FORGIVE ME!!!! Oh, I do have a question. It seems the chapters are definitely getting longer each time. Do you like or would you prefer shorter?
Also thank you for your critics, I have been working on the :::inserts::: and see what the writing is like without them. Also this story is going to be 10 to 11 chapters plus epilogue. The next chapter starts to get a lot more interesting (Yes kissing) so until then....
PS. THANK YOU FOR THE INCREDIBLE AND UNBELIEVABLE AMOUNT OF REVIEWS!!!! Are you trying to blow up my head?
Parings: Sora/Riku because somehow those two belong.
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.
I AM SOOOOO SORRY for the delay!!!!! Figures. When I set a time line and life immediately gives me a big hearty kick to my ass. Which, by the way, I will extend the invitation to everyone that reviewed to take as many pop shots to my butt. I am bending over as we speak. But first, THANK YOU FOR ALL THE REVIEWS (a shit load of them too...whoa), second, Special thanks to Amai Okashi for the beta reading, third, happy belated birthday Kate-chan, fourth, read on...
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:::Chapter 5- Test of Purity:::
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
Uh?
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
What?
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
Oh. My head felt like a heavy stone. I couldn't even think. 'What the hell is that noise?' Through the thick haze of my brain, I focused on the sound.
"Oh."
'Just the damn alarm...the mechanical turd.'
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
"SHUT UP! I'm up already." At a pace set by snails on valium, I proceeded to peel back the covers from my body.
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
I tried to quicken the pace but the sheets were wound really tight.
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
"Rrrr...Fucking A!"
"Having some trouble there, Goldilocks?" A sing song voice sounded off from the direction of my bedroom door.
"Sora?" The question came from the bundle of sheets and bed covers. The brunette began to chuckle from the scene unfolding in front of him which only insured to piss me off.
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
"You need some help there?"
"No, I'm fine." Especially not from that smug imp. What I really needed was to get out of these DAMN SHEETS so I can wipe that smile I KNOW Sora was sporting right now.
Frustrated by my cage made of blankets, I began to frantically thrash all over the bed. Nothing helped and I remained trapped. "RRRRRRRRRRR!"
'He looks like some enormous yeti or something', Sora mused. "Are you SURE you don't need help?" He was now laughing out right at his silver haired friend now.
"Fuck you, Sora!!!" I growled. "When I get free...rrrrrr...you're soo going to get it!!" My threats never fazed the brunette. The more his amusement increased the angrier I became.
Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa Eaaaaa
Finally, Sora took pity on me by shutting off the alarm and untangling the mass of blankets as he leaned alongside the bed. Once they loosened, I pounced. Sora squeaked with surprise and tried to get away but it was too late. 'Hehe, you're mine, Blue Eyes!' I grabbed a hold of his hips and flipped the startled brunette up and over, landing him on his back against the mattress. 'Let the tickle fest begin.'
"Stop Ri..." :::giggle::: "...iku...No, Rikuuuu...:::giggle::: stop." :::giggle::: :::giggle::: "If you don't stop I'll...AAAAAA!" :::giggle:::
All sorts of interesting squeals and giggles could be heard from my captive. Every last one egged me further.
"And what are you going to do, Blue Eyes? Bad things?"
During the whole time I was torturing him, I was swimming in a euphoric sense of pleasant emotions and warm, crawling sensations flashed along my skin. It's something I've come to associate with Sora. At first it was odd. I didn't know what to make of it. I wasn't sure if it was me on a bad day or something very different. I would pick up on similar emotions periodically and other times they were at complete odds with my current mood. But now that he's been living with Tidus, Wakka, and me for a month, I now know that those stray feelings are definitely Sora's. I'm not sure how or why and I don't care. Life has always been on the weird side for me. 'What's another log in the fire?' He has become the closest friend I have next to Sky, which was saying a lot. Sometimes attachments with people scare me; I never get close to anyone if I could help it. There's no reason behind 'why' but just something that's hardwired into my personality. And for some bizarre reason this man before me and the dream image of Sky are the only two who were able to cut through my defenses utterly meeting absolutely no resistance. I trusted them absolutely in every way.
Finally I released Sora. His cheeks were covered with long, wet streaks, evidence from all the laughter. 'Gods, he's adorable.' Breathing heavily, his eyes opened to show two sapphire gems smiling at me. The eyes, the sheepish smile, all of him never cease to amaze me. Would things have been different if he had been female?
"Um, Riku?" A note of urgency in his voice.
'Oh. Right. The original reason he came in here.' I sat up on the side of the bed. "So...am I late?" Sora grins and shakes his head.
"No, just thought your mechanical friend might need some assistance with you this morning." My face must have had a very confused look because the next thing I knew Sora was snickering again at my expense. 'Fucker was messing with me.' I try putting on the most pathetic pout I could muster.
"You mean you care more about the alarm than me?" I bat my eyes. Sora's smile quickly disappears and is replaced with a more somber expression. He studied me without a word. Just as I was thinking I had done something wrong, his smile returns and I feel my heart miss a beat. 'I'm surprised the girls haven't started beating the door down for this very striking blue eyed roommate of ours.'
Lost momentarily in thought, I didn't notice Sora standing over me offering his hand to take. I know it is a simple gesture but it said volumes to me.
Once up, I grabbed my robe on my way out the door and followed him down the stairs. We made a quick stop to the kitchen, grabbing two mugs and a pot full of life, giving essence for two coffee addicts. We maneuvered past two unconscious forms lying within the center of what could be described an explosion of empty beer bottles and loose chips. 'Not surprising really. Yesterday was the release of the new RPG called something Hearts or other. They must have played it all night.'
Grinning maniacally, I paused to watch the two men. Sora, sensing my evil thoughts, shook his head and took a hold of my arm walked us out the front door negating any plans I had of messing with the two drunks. 'Later...Definitely, later.'
We walked out onto the sand and made ourselves comfortable. Sora silently poured the coffee. When he was finished, we angled ourselves towards the sea to face the rising sun. The air was quiet and still. Squinting my eyes, I could see the bare hint of light gradually getting brighter. I sighed contently taking another sip of my coffee. This was nice; this was needed; everything; this had become our morning ritual.
Or mornings together were never planned but started out as a coincidence. During the first week that Sora begun living here at the house, I was having problems with Sky. She and I had had a pretty nasty argument one night. I screamed in anger at Sky and once I realized my mistake I ran. I was so ashamed of myself, of how I acted, of how I treated her. She had honestly asked a question that deserved a real answer and it scared me. I never wanted to think about the future of Sky and me within the dreamscape. Why? It was because I didn't want to have a future without her, so I never wanted anything to change. She was my anchor, my safe harbor. There was no one else I could bare my inner heart to and share unconditionally. So, what did I do fix things between us? Being the 'fuck nut' that I am, I did the most mature thing to do, I avoided her. Yeah, I know. I'm not too smart when comes to dealing with my emotions especially when I am upset and confused.
How did I avoid her? Easy, I have to exhaust myself to the point where when I finally went to sleep I would slip past REM and straight to deep slumber. I was so stubborn; I dragged this out for a whole week. I found random things to keep myself occupied and awake. Oddly enough, the brunette was having a hard time sleeping as well. He told me that it took him time to get use to new places. One morning, I found Sora sitting as we are now staring off into the water. He didn't look too well; sleep deprivation was taking its toll on the both of us. One moment I was watching him in the shadows and the next I was making myself comfortable on the sand beside him. H e never noticed.
"Can't sleep?" My voice, even at a whisper, sharply cut through silence
"Uh!?!"
(Surprise)
Startling him out of his silent communion, he choked on his words. "Oh...Ah...Sorry, Riku...I didn't see you coming." (Confused)
"Would you rather I leave? I didn't mean to bother y..."
"NO!" The brunette quickly shook his head and gave me a small reassuring smile. "No, I'm glad to see you. Please stay." So I did.
Time passed while we sat together. No words passed between us for some time and I discovered that I didn't mind in the least. I felt oddly comforted by his presence.
"So..." Sora initiated.
I tilted my head in his direction, "So." It was still too early in the morning to clearly make out his face but I could tell he was closely watching me.
"Um...so...you having problems sleeping too?"
I looked away and didn't answer immediately. 'Should I lie? I don't think he would appreciate it if did and some how I think he would know.'
There has always been a strange connection between us. I don't know if he feels it too but I won't ever mention it. I think it might make him uncomfortable. 'The truth then.'
"This may sound weird but...I'm trying to avoid someone."
"Really? Any reason?" He was neither surprise nor requested further explanation. Sora took what I said at face value and continued. I was a little shocked and relieved by his reaction or lack there of.
I took a big breath and slowly released the tension that I had been holding within my heart for the last few days. I told him all about Sky, minus the dreamscape aspect, and how we'd known each other all our lives. I explained how special she was to me, how we'd fought over, well, 'our' future and that I'd been avoiding her and why I was terrified. Sora sat quietly, his eyes never leaving me, and listened to my every word without interruption. When I finished, I waited for his response. Disgust? Accusation?
Sora took in a deep breath and left it out as a slow sigh. He broke eye contact and turned to face the sea and my eyes followed his line of sight.
"Riku, I once thought like you...you know, about the future. I thought it was best to leave the 'now' as it was. I wanted my future to remain like a perfect statue frozen in time forever capturing its beauty. Why fix it if it's not broken? But I've changed; I'm not like that anymore."
Sora paused admiring the vast expanse of the open waters while collecting his thoughts. He reminisced for a moment and then focused his exquisite sapphire colored eyes on me. "How to put this..." His smile was gentle and reassuring. "Take everything in life that makes you happy and sad, together they shape you. A part of you changes each time you are touched by either one. This change is not static. It moves us forward. Without it we never feel despair but we also never appreciate the joy either. The future is like a path we walk upon. Not everything on the road is good but not everything is bad either; it's what makes you who you are. You give up and cease moving along the road to avoid the pain you may also pass up the chance to experience what else is wonderful in life. You may never be able to rectify any mistakes you make in the past but you can use that knowledge to not repeat it again." Sora reached over and lightly touched my hand. "I'll tell you a secret. You remember when I told you I had a friend I desperately wanted to see?"
I nod.
"Well, I decided to never reveal my presence here to them."
My back stiffened in response to his declaration. I was shocked. 'How could he?' "Why, Sora?" I asked.
He risked so much for friend of his and for him say that he was purposely letting them go without word was somewhat alarming. I never pried but had wondered what had happened with all that.
Sora continued, "I know that it is a mistake but it's mine to make and I will live with it and continue." The brunette gave my hand one more squeeze before he released it. "The reason for me coming here is not the same for me staying here and I'm cool with that. My choice, or mistake if you want, has made me happy in a different way. I've found new friends and I like living here with you."
I stopped at his last statement. 'You like living with me?' I felt my face start to burn. 'Shit. I'm blushing.'
"The pain hasn't gone away but I still move forward. I'm content."
I was speechless. I don't think he really expected me to reply. I thought about Sky and what she meant to me and how she made me feel. I thought about what Sora was trying to say to me. His words siphoned off all the stress and fear leaving me empty and warm. "Thanks Sora. You're words helped. I can't believe I have you as friend." I dropped my head onto my knees and a low whisper, "Thanks."
"Shut up, Goldilocks and watch the sunrise." The ongoing joke made me feel better so I happily obeyed his command.
The light coming from the far horizon was growing brighter paving the way for the rising sun.
"Sora..."
"Hmmm?"
I choked on a small laugh. "You're not going to believe this but, this is my first sunrise." Sora's brow dips down slightly into a frown then he gives me the most attractive heart felt smile I've seen yet.
"Then I'm glad I was here to enjoy it with you."
That's when watching the morning sun became our morning tradition.
So here we were, sitting together, clothed in half robes and boxers, and sipping coffee taking part in our morning ritual. The sound of the waves continuously washed ashore made for the perfect, background music. We patiently waited for the sun to break the barrier of the horizon spilling forth the first rays of light heralding the new day. I could barely see the shadow outline of Seagulls sweeping to and fro, swooping periodically into the water catching breakfast. A sudden chuckle sounded off pleasantly sending a shiver rippling through my body.
My brow arching I looked over to my friend. Sora's smile deepened and pointed at the small, long, legged birds running along the edge of the waves washing a shore. I never really thought much of these birds; how they would race forward then retreat only to begin again. I glanced at Sora again.
His smile and brightly lit eyes caused warm honey laden shivers to run down my neck. This reaction was not unusual where the brunette was concerned and even though I never spoke of it, I've become accustomed to the sensation and welcome it.
However, I admit at first, it freaked me out. I thought maybe I was becoming gay or something. I've had many chances to enjoy the pleasured company of assorted female beauties since his arrival and not once did I feel anything towards other males. THANK GOD. I think, maybe, it had to do with Sora and I becoming best friends as fast as we did. Sora was the first person I've gotten this close to outside of Sky. Sky and Sora are both very dear to me and since I'm in love with Sky that it makes sense that I would confuse my feelings towards Sora with my feelings for Sky. Yeah. I was just confused.
"Hey Riku. Can I ask you a question?"
"I don't know, can you?"
Sora glares at me. "MAY I ask you a question?"
I start to grin despite my best efforts to conceal, earning a deeper scowl from the brunette. "You could but I MAY not answer." Now Sora was growling in irritation. You could almost mistake him for a dog or something. The idea was so amusing to me that I began to chuckle. We stayed that way for a couple of seconds; him staring at me in disbelief and my laughter growing to the point of pain then I was pounced.
"God. You are SUCH a prick!"
(Excitement) (Happiness)
Sora tried to tickle me. Tried is the operative word since there was no doubt that I was infinitely the stronger of us two. However, it was fun to let him believe that he had a chance.
I then turned the tables when Sora had his fun and flipped him onto to his back, instantly giving a grunt from the impact. I pinned him, completely immobilizing his body. He struggled against me; nothing he did help. Eventually Sora submitted. His sapphire eyes watched me intensely and something deep and familiar stirred within my heart. I couldn't move. I was entranced. I found myself moving closer to him...closer to his lips. 'NO! Something's wrong with me.' I quickly got off of Sora and immediately placed a substantial amount of distance between us. I sat there panting trying desperately to make sense of my confusion. (bewilderment)
"Um, Riku are you okay?"
I quickly composed myself. 'Sky and him were just too much a like. That's all it was.' "Huh? Yeah. Um..." I tried to throw on my best mask hoping he would fall for it. He's really unnerving sometimes how he's able to read me. I look again to Sora, "What was your question?"
The young man starred at his silver haired friend and was about to ask then changed his mind and asked something else. "Well, you know your sister..."
"Right...What about her?"
"Well, I was wondering if Wakka and she were an item at one point." Now I really started laughing.
"Riiikuuu. What's so funny?" Sora punched my shoulder.
I sobered. "Sorry Blue Eyes, it's just that since they could walk Wakka has ALWAYS had a thing for Kairi. Please don't ask anymore. It's not that I don't trust you, quite the opposite. It's just that it's their story to tell." The brunette seemed to understand. I stood up and reached out for Sora's hand. A non-descript emotion played across his face. It was too fast for me to decipher. I quickly hoisted him up onto his feet. "We should be getting ready to leave for work soon."
Sora just nodded and smirked. "Race ya." He took off not waiting for my reply. Frowning at the little beast I darted after him, my long legs swiftly closing the gap.
"Soraaaaa!" Growling with a hint of amusement, "When I get you.....!!!"
The two racing figures retreating as fast as the sun rose above the water giving light to the darkness before.
--------------------------------------------
"Sora warm-up the machines and finish the rest of the prep work. When you're finished, you shouldn't have any problems running the store while Riku and I are gone."
"Mr. Anders, are you sure you don't need any help?" Sora asked while chewing the inner wall of his bottom lip. A nervous habit he picked up recently, the older man mused.
He watched the younger man move across the store preparing everything necessary. The store owner still marveled at how quickly Sora had picked up the business. 'I would never trust a new employee alone to run the store, but true to his initial impression, Sora had proven to be completely trustworthy. The brunette did nothing but reinforce it.
"I'll return before noon with most of the supplies we need."
"Can't you wait a day, so I can help you bring everything back here?"
Mr. Anders softened from the young man's concern. 'I know he's worried but he also gets antsy when Riku isn't here. He's not even aware that he does.' The owner scratched his chin deep in thought. 'I should think that that their friendship slightly strange but at the same time it had an irrefutable rightness attached to it.'
"No. I need this done today. It cannot wait, especially since the rain will be here very soon...Relax." He said in a soothing voice. "Everything will be delivered by the people I'll be buying from."
Sora sighed in relief. He was worried about the older man handling the goods without assistance. "Is the rain really THAT bad?"
:::jingle::: :::jingle:::
"They're not necessarily monsoons but they do get heavy." He holds open the door momentarily, "Well...I'm off."
"Bye." Sora waved goodbye as he watched the man disappear into the crowd outside.
:::jingle::: :::jingle:::
He dropped his hand and greeted the first customer for the day.
--------------------------------------------
I lean up against the lamp post. Wakka and Tidus were both on either side of me not really saying much. 'Probably still pretty tired from last night.' I grin at the picture of two grown men acting like children playing until dawn.
"So was it worth it, Ox boy?"
The red head scowled as a yawn escaped. "Shut up, Riku. Tidus and I have been waiting for the release of Kingdom Hearts II for a year now. So give it rest, ya."
My grin turned feral when he said that. "See? That's my point exactly. Who in the hell waits for a fucking game for a whole year. One...whole...year, guys. One year for a game. A GAME..." He and Tidus are the biggest geeks that I have ever known.
"Fuck you, you silver mop of an excuse for hair." The blond was awake enough to respond. "You're just jealous."
"What?!?" I almost choked on my words. "Jealous? One: Tidus I think you need more coffee because your name calling needs work and two: Jealous? You're fucking hilarious. To be sprawled on the floor passed out without a girl next to me and a game is the reason. Well, that's just plain sad."
"Man, Riku. What's got you riled this morning? You normally wait to bite Tidus' and my head for later in the day, ya."
"YEAH!" Tidus chirped in agreement.
I stopped for a moment. 'Am I really being an ass more than usual? I've had sleep. I'm not hung-over. Sky's not pissed at me, so...huh...no sex. It's been almost a month. Yeah, I'm sex deprived.'
I look apologetic to my two friends, "Sorry guys. I guess it's been a while for me." I leave my statement open hoping they read between the lines to figure out what I really meant.
"Yeah, you've been all but celibate, dude. It's not like you." The blond smiles. "We may even get away without a cat fight at Cloud's mega-party of the year." Wakka nods but doesn't add anything.
My mood lightens. "Yeah, we'd have a real tragedy on our hands. No ex- girlfriends begging for this hot piece of man meat. Don't you agree Wakka?" I ran a finger down the redhead's neck hoping for a reaction. I got one all right.
--------------------------------------------
I felt the plaster surface through my shirt. Some of my shorter locks were slipping into my face annoying the hell out of me. I've already retied my hair four times this morning. Maybe I should cut it, I thought absently. It still hurt a little. "Damn, Wakka. That's a mean hook you have there." I massaged my sore jaw to emphasize my point.
"Shut up you girl." Tidus' eyes twinkled mischievously. Just as I was about to attack him I felt a sharp tug on my ear.
"OW ow ow ow ow ow."
"Behave, you heathens." A new voice spoke behind me.
"He started it!" Both Wakka and Tidus declared.
"Traitors." I growled but Mr. Anders gave my ear another sharp tug before he released. I rubbed my ear vigorously. My frown soon turned to a grin when I saw the old geezer. I couldn't help it; he was my second father...well...technically my third since Cid is my second.
Mr. Anders puffs on his pipe regarding all three of us with a smile. "So did you all have to wait long?"
"Na, man. Only been ten minutes."
The older man nodded and reached into his pocket pulling out a substantial wad of cash. "Good. Here's the money for the kegs. You'll have to front the rest for food and what not." All three of us were still gawking at the amount he was giving us for the alcohol. He's NEVER spent this much on any of us! A part of me was upset but the better part me calmed me down and reminded me of whom this is for. "Sora's running the store right now so there's no chance of him seeing you."
I nod. "Yeah, Kairi said that she would occupy him once he gets off work. So we'll be free to get everything together for tomorrow night. He's going to be up to his ears busy with the two, chibi sized devils. So...no worries there." I wink.
Mr. Anders took another long drag from his pipe. He lazily exhaled the smoke while smiling at all three of us. He warmly gripped my shoulder. "Well, gentlemen, I leave you to it. Riku, don't forget to scout for the paopu trees."
"Sure thing, Anders." With that he left. I turned to Tidus and Wakka, "Well?"
"Let's do it, ya."
"Ya." I echoed with a smile. "Sora's definitely going to be surprised."
--------------------------------------------
I sat on the couch staring at the game Wakka and Tidus were busy playing. 'Believe me, if there was something else I could be doing I WOULD, but we had finished preparations early and all was ready for the party tomorrow. Selphie was over earlier to help with the food provisions. All we had left was the cake. Kairi said that she and mom had that covered. All was well and Sora the less wiser. Thank God that I had a chance to talk to his parents when he wasn't around. They happily answered many of my questions.'
I caught a gentle breeze brushing across my face coming through the open windows. I tilted my head back and let myself relax to the caress. It always reminded me of Sky's hand brushing down my cheek. 'Sky...she and Sora are...huh...nope that's absurd. By the way, where is Blue Eyes? I've been waiting long enough that this game is starting to look pretty interesting.' Wakka and Tidus finally had their fill of the game and went into Tidus' room to play on the internet. 'To look up porn, most likely.'
I sighed again. I hated waiting. Suddenly the warm honey oozy feeling returned. 'Sora's home!' I stood up excitedly. 'Man, I'm sounding like a love sick teenager.' But I decided not to analyze that thought any further. I hastily walked over and opened the door to a pair of widened azure gems. 'Heh, looks as though I startled him.'
Sora looked drained. Heck I would be to if I had spent all afternoon with the twins. I gave him a sympathetic look, knowing from experience how much his nephew and niece could wipe you out.
Currently the twins were attached to Sora's person. "Come here squirt." Making for a motion to Squall to release the man's neck and come down. For a second, Squall appeared to think better but he soon relented and fell into my arms instantly hugging my chest. It was his favorite way to show affection. Quistis, on the other hand, looked at me with a smile but remained fastened to Sora's leg.
I gave my sister a wink and a quick kiss making her giggle. "Well, did you get everything you needed done today, Kairi?" I asked.
She smiled weakly. "Yeah. 'Uncle Sora' was big help. Riiiight Kids?"
"YEAH!!!!" The pair yelled in unison at the top of their lungs.
"Wakka's here, you want me to get him?" I offer.
"No, we need to get going. Tell him I said hi."
"Will do." Placing Squall on the floor. "Well, good night you two." Grabbing both twins into my arms, I gave them a tight hug and sloppy kisses. I turned to Kairi and hugged her, kissing lightly on the cheek. "See ya, sis." in a barely audible whisper.
Sora and I watched them drive away leaving us on the porch in the dark.
(Weary)
He was worn out. "Come on." I said in a gentle voice. "You look like you could use a beer." His eyes brightened at my suggestion.
(Gratified) (Joy) (Tired) So many emotions seemed to be coming from my friend, tonight.
"Thanks Riku. That sounds great."
--------------------------------------------
Two beers later...Pssssht...I hand another one to Sora. He looked better, less stressed. I'm glad. I don't like seeing him like that.
The brunette exhaled a hearty sigh and dramatically flopped his body against the kitchen counter. I waved my hand at the direction of Tidus's room. "You know, they have been awfully quiet since you got back. Let's go see what the bums are up to."
We both stood up at the same time. I reached out to ruffle Sora's bangs making sure they were thoroughly messed up when I finished. He shot me a dirty glare promising any more and I'm in a world of hurt.
:::chuckle:::
I locked my hand on Sora's neck and steered him in the direction of the blond's room. "Come on blue eyes."
--------------------------------------------
"Did you find one yet?"
"No...Um...Yeah." Tidus beamed at what his search found. "I've pulled up at least thirty. Which one do you want?"
The red haired man looked at the computer screen for a few minutes then shook his head and sat back drinking deeply from his freshly opened beer. Scratching his head, Wakka turned to face Tidus, "I don't know. What's the difference?"
Frowning, the blond went back to scroll through the multitude of results. This lasted for a few minutes. Satisfied, he finally he leaned back, "Mm...I believe it has more to do with the amount of questions asked. The more asked the more perverted the questions become." He points to the screen, "See here? There's a 100, 500, 1000, or 5000 questions total. How many do you want to answer?"
Before Wakka responds, both hear an all too familiar voice break the silence.
"Yo assholes!"
"In here fucker!!! Tidus returns without breaking his vision from the computer screen, "We heard the door earlier. Bring Sora with you too!"
The door opened. Sora, looking very doubtful, and I, grinning like fool, walked into the room. 'I kind of have an idea what the two are up too. Tidus has been talking about it non-stop for the last two days, ever since an internet pin pal told him about it.' Once inside, I looked for a suitable place to drop the case of beer I'm holding. I shrugged my shoulders and decided 'where ever' was perfect. The case hit the floor and made a load reverberating thud grabbing the attention of everyone in the room. Tidus was ecstatic.
"Yes!! You rule Riku. We ran out of reserves not too long ago."
"I figured as much." I said as I reached over grabbing two bottles and handed them to the two men sitting in front of the computer. Content, I threw myself down onto a large bean bag stuffed in the corner. 'It's not much of a chair but what can I say, it does the job.' Sora looked a little lost looking around the room. It dawned on me that even though he's lived with us for a while now, this was the first time to be in Tidus' room. I motioned him to pull up a chair to sit behind Wakka and Tidus.
Pshhhht. Tidus handed the opener to Wakka. Pshhhhht. Wakka offered the opener to Sora. Sora took it giving his thanks immediately afterwards. Pshhht. Wakka smiled then looked to me, "Maybe you should take lessons from Sora, ya."
Raising my brow, "Mmmm..what's that?" Pshhhhht. I placed the opener on the floor after I finished using it.
Tidus spoke without break eye contact with the computer, "I think what Oxboy is trying to say is that Sora here has demonstrated more manners in the last few seconds then you have ever in the last 20 years."
I narrowed my eyes at Tidus then quickly calmed down and shrugged. "So what's the agenda today, geek boy?"
Tidus ignored my taunt and talked to Sora instead. "Yo Sora, we're looking up some purity tests. You want to take one with us. They're pretty humorous."
The brunette looks confused. "Purity test?"
I swig the last of my beer, discard the empty bottle haphazardly, and grabbing its replacement. Psshhhht. "Is that what you guys are looking up?"
"Purity test?" Sora is still confused. "What's that?"
All of us stared at the brunette, smirking wickedly. Sora started to feel uncomfortable with the scrutiny and wished desperately he was some where else. He pictured himself a small rabbit in front of three very hungry lions. He shivered despite himself.
Interesting. 'I thought everyone at least had heard of the purity test in some fashion or other. Makes me wonder.' I got comfortable and waited to see how things would unfold. 'This may turn out to be a very informative night about our brunette roommate.'
Wakka spoke first to Tidus, "Bring up a 500 question one."
"Yup." Tidus in flash went to work pulling up the next site on the internet.
Sora man twisted around to look at me, his eyes a deep swirl of baby blue and deepest sapphire, "Um...Riku...what's this about?"
"Hehe, Sex, my short friend. All about sex." My blatant remark got the exact reaction I desired. I could see from here the blush spreading like wildfire up his neck and covering all of his face. Snickering to myself, 'This is going to be fun.'
"Wha...What do you mean, sex?!?" Sora exclaimed. No one answered him. Finally Tidus looked up and made to switch places with Sora. The brunette hesitantly took his chair and asked, "What do I do?"
Tidus smiled and reassured him with a pat on the back. "Just sit here and answer each question. When you're done the site will tally your answers and give a score. I'll tell you later what the score means." Sora moved to say no but Tidus shook his head, "Don't worry. It won't bite. They are just a bunch of 'harmless questions."
Sora frowned but sits quietly in front of the computer and begins to read the page and contents.
The next several minutes proved to be most entertaining. The brunette was totally unaware that he was mumbling out load. He recited some of the questions supplied with his reaction if not his actual thoughts on the subject. At some point I was in tears rolling all over the floor along with Tidus and Wakka.
--------------------------------------------
HAVE YOU EVER...
1-...kissed a friend or stranger on their hands/ neck region as a friendly gesture? "Sure. Who hasn't? Family. Duh."
3-...held hands with someone? :::humph::: "Whatever. Next question."
7-...gone steady? "........"
34-...shared a bed, sleeping bag, or sleeping accommodations with someone without anything steamy happening? "Does drinking hot chocolate count?"
65-...secretly lusted after someone without that person knowing? "Hell yeah! I am MAN. But some of them really never needed to know that."
:::huh?:::
100-...fantasized about anyone and masturbated at the same time? "Um, that's kind of a personal question."
:::They get worse:::
:::Shut up, Wakka!:::
103-…stuffed your bra if you are female, or stuffed your pants if you are male? "Well…there was this one time…"
:::Dude! And I thought Tidus was the only one!:::
:::Fuck you, Riku.:::
:::But, I was flattered Tidus, really.:::
:::grrrrrrrr:::
243-…colored or bleached your genital pubic hair? "Yuck, who would do that?"
:::cough:::
:::Wakka?:::
:::I always wondered.:::
:::You wondered?:::
:::SHMACK:::
311-...masturbated while on the phone? (No kinky interpretations of "on the phone". This is legit.) "People do that? WOH! (on the phone)!":::Is he for real?:::
:::snicker:::
:::I think Sora was raised in a church.:::
:::Like THAT means anything.:::
320-...bought blatant sexual objects? (This means that if you buy a bottle of pop and use it as a dildo, it doesn't count. Think design and function.) "Design and function...function...oh my!"
:::snicker:::
:::Getting warmer:::
:::snicker:::
362-...intentionally listened in on other people having sex, oral sex, or mutual masturbation without their knowing it? "Is it me or is it getting hotter in here."
:::Tidus...:::
:::Hey! It was only that one time. Take your girlfriends somewhere besides my room when you feel the urge, Riku.:::
:::I think Riku is French for slut:::
:::you're just jealous Wakka:::
412-...urinated on someone else intentionally? "........That's weird."
:::Riku:::
:::Riku:::
:::Fuck you both.:::
413-...stored any excretia in a refrigerator, oven, or any food storage/ preparation appliance? "THAT'S SICK!"
:::cough:::
:::Dude! No way!:::
:::That's fucking sick!:::
428-...inserted your finger into your rectum? "?!?"
430-...eaten food after it was extracted/ evacuated from your or someone else's anus? "What the...?!?!"
:::?!?:::
:::?!?:::
:::zzzzzzz:::
437-...been involved in group sex? (Four or more people, partner must be exchanged.) "Wow."
:::Mmmmm, yeah.:::
:::Shut up, Riku.:::
:::Shut up, Riku.:::
480-...practiced klismaphilla (a dependency on being given an enema)? "Holy cow."
:::There's a word for that?:::
"Last question."
500-...practiced in a fuck-a-thon? (Where the object is to see how many times you can do it in a certain amount of time.) "!!!!!"
:::The dream...:::
:::My goal...:::
:::Holy shit his nose is bleeding.:::
:::Fuck, that's a lot of blood.:::
:::Shut the fuck up Wakka and get Sora a towel:::
--------------------------------------------
I held Sora in my arms leaning his head back against my shoulder. "Pinch your nose...Good. It should stop pretty soon." His blue eyes were looking at me passively. The look of complete trust moved me. I shifted my arm slightly to gently brush aside some stray bangs away from his eyes. "So what did you think of the test?"
"Huh? Oh, it...was...interesting."
Wakka wandered back into the room with a watered down rag and a dry towel. Sora gladly accepted them both and sat up to wipe his face and clothes of stray blood. I continued to sit behind him. Tidus was still busy tallying the score. "So?" I urged.
Tidus didn't even acknowledge my inquiry. "Holy shit! Guys take a look. Didn't think that was even possible." Wakka leaned over the blond's shoulder. The redhead's mouth droped wide open without a peep and stayed that way stunned. Now, I was curious. I followed suite and walked over to view Sora's score. When I read the numbers I exclaimed, "No way!"
Now the brunette was curious, "What? What does it say?"
Wakka was still speechless. Tidus mumbled under his breathe so only Wakka and I could hear, "The score represents how sexually experienced or inexperienced he is. Guys...He hasn't had sex."
"A twenty six year old cherry. Didn't think they existed." Wakka chimed much louder.
Tidus started to laugh, "Yeah, last one was probably during the Dark Ages."
Sora was getting pissed with every statement. A rich tomato color flared all over his body.
Taken with the running joke I laughed half spoke, "Heh...By the looks...heh...probably hasn't even kissed." At that all three of us busted out laughing. Sora was spitting like a pissed cat giving the illusion of mange raised all over his back.
"Yes...yes I have!!!!" He protested. No matter how much force he put behind his words something inside of me screamed 'LIE'. That's when an evil thought crossed my mind.
I gripped the brunette's chin instantly rendering him still. Smirking, "There's only one way to find out..." once the words were floating in the air between us I launched forward taking advantage of his confusion and claimed his lips. He instantly went rigged. The moment our lips touched, I felt an explosion of pure emotion. I was swimming in a pool of confusion, desire, fear, longing, anger, shock. Within all that there was one single thought burning in the fore front. 'My first kiss!?' He relaxed into the kiss and a small whimper escaped his lips. It was so quiet that he and I were the only ones who heard. I slowly released his mouth and looked down into his eyes. Sora's eyes...Gods...they were a bottomless pit of languid blue. Then a new thought sifted to the surface of my dense brain, 'what did I just do?'
At exact same moment Sora woke. The spell was broken. He suddenly hurled himself as far away as possible from me. He used so much force that he toppled off the bed landing hard against the room's opposite wall.
'Dammit. That's was his first kiss, ever. And I stole it as a joke. I'm such an asshole.' My face slipped into its favorite mask and I tried to make light of the trespass I just made. "Judging by THAT reaction, I was right."
Tidus slapped Sora on the back, "Yeah, that fucker has kissed me five times, now."
"Heh, I have a gag reflex every time, the pervert." Wakka made motions of throwing up.
Sora began to smile which soon turned to true laughter. I felt a little better. Tomorrow, I'll make it up to him with the party.
--------------------------------------------
Sora had been hanging out with his tall, silver haired friend all day. They didn't do anything extraordinary but the brunette enjoyed every minute. Sei/ Riku were special to him and he would take them both in any form he can. So when the day came to a close, Riku suggested returning to the house and maybe go for a nice midnight swim in the ocean. He never once questioned any of it, not even when they parked Riku's four-wheeler beside the house. The only odd thing was the stray emotions that kept brushing against the surface of his mind. Sora couldn't explain. One moment he was calm and content then the next he felt excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. When they made it to the front door, he had to strain his blue eyes to see the handle, let a lone the lock.
The young man knew at times he seemed like an oblivious dunce but he did pay attention. However, everyone had their days where they were off and what was about to happen next absolutely fallen in that category.
So when he entered the house and turned on the lights, he turned and froze.
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!"
--------------------------------------------
It took all my acting skills to keep the surprise from Sora.
I was instructed by my sister and roommates to keep Sora out all day long and return when it gets dark. It was a tall order considering that was from sunrise to sunset but I'm not complaining. 'I love spending time with him. He's a great friend and to be perfectly honest, I don't remember what life was like before he started living with us at the house.
To keep him busy, we didn't have to do anything special. I spent the whole time boating the two of us around. I stopped to show him one of the smaller Isles I was scoping out the day before for the poupi trees that might have matured enough to harvest. He was awe struck. Who can blame him, that Isle is breath-taking. When I do decide to settle down, this would be the place I would want marry.
Clear blue skies, calm waters, and perfect temperatures, Sora was beside himself. It was like rediscovering the wonders and beauty through his eyes for me. My head was spinning with all the other places that I was dying to take him to, like where we can swim with the dolphins, the secret place during my childhood, or like the Hanu Isle where my branch of the local natives lived. My tribe was the more obscure one and cannot be mistaken for any of the others. It was the physical traits like great height and the white, stark like hair. I told Sky once about them in passing and she said that the tribe sounded like a bunch of ethereal beings in the flesh. Sora said much the same.
When we finally returned, Sora was blissfully unaware of any under goings. I trailed behind him the whole time barely containing my excitement. It was totally by chance I caught a call made by Sora's parents when Sora was out. They informed me that it was going to be his birthday in week and that they wanted to wish their son well. They sounded really nice. I hoped maybe some day I can meet them.
Once the initial surprise was sprung, everyone bombarded the blue eyed man with food, cake, gifts, drinks, and definitely more drinks. Sora was astounded and the whole time he looked like he was about to break out the water works. He seemed to be so happy and the image filled my chest with warmth and joy.
Everyone was here tonight, Kairi and the twins (thank f'in God that Ansem wasn't with them), Mr. Anders, Wakka and Tidus (of course), my parents (Cid and Mom), Cloud, Selphie, Irvine, and some other people that Sora had only met in passing (he without a doubt makes a lasting impression). The party went in a blur. I lost track of Sora at some point. Mom, Cid, Kairi and the kids had to leave at some point since it was the twins' bedtime. It made me happy that Kairi sincerely liked Sora. She usually isn't too fond of my friends I've made in the past. Once they left, the party started to change and the real drinking began.
At some point I spied Mr. Anders doing a shot challenge with Wakka. I never would have believed that old man had it in him. It's going to be so much fun later when we begin to fuck with Wakka's unconscious body. As of this moment, the redhead's underwear was in the fridge to be frozen for later use. Tidus' idea and I didn't ask.
If I had to sum it up, everyone was talking and having a great time. That's when I believed it was time to search out the birthday boy and see how he was fairing. Last time I saw him he was stumbling out back with two drinks in hand.
It didn't take long. I found him sitting against the house on the back porch talking with Selphie and Irvine. I joined the group and fell into light conversation ranging from clothing styles and how every year they seem to find the worse styles to bring back to parents not stepping up to plate and relying on others to raise and discipline their children for them. This is one huge soap box of mine.
"Look. I'm just saying that the times are different. There's more work people have to do and less time to do them. So I can see why the parents fall behind with their children."
"That's bullshit!" I leaned forward aiming my finger right at Irvine to emphasize my point. "I was raised by a single mom for three years and she MADE the time for me even when there wasn't time. So that single parent 'thang' is just a lame excuse for laziness."
Irvine threw up his hands in defeat. "Okay. Okay. I see your point." He looked to Selphie sitting beside him grasping her hand and they both exchange a nod.
The couple stood up. Selphie bent forward to hug Sora and I. "Great party Riku and Happy Birthday, Sora."
Irvine tipped his hat to Sora and I, "Later guys," and left.
Sora and I sat in silence for a couple minutes. We both were pretty drunk. My eye sight was starting to blur.
I tilted my head towards Sora, "So Sora..."
He titled his in kind, "So..." His eyes were glazed over and had a lop-sided grin. 'Yeah, definitely drunk.'
He looks adorable. "So did you like the party?"
"Bshhhhh...how yous know it wash my Birthshday?"
I smiled at his slurring, "Parents called last week and they told me. They thought you might want to celebrate with friends."
His smile strengthened. He's beautiful when he's happy. "Yeah. It is thesh best Birthday ever...Thanks Sei."
All time ceased moving for me when I heard Sky's nickname for me. I must have heard wrong, being drunk and all. "Sorry, I didn't hear you. What did you say?"
He clumsily turned his whole body towards me, "I said, thanks Sei. I loved thesh party."
I sobered instantly and grabbed Sora's shoulders a little too hard and shook. The brunette winced from the vise like grip. His eyes grew wide with fear and confusion. Barely able to keep my voice from shouting in anger, "How do you know that name? Answer me! How do you KNOW the name, SEI?"
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I promise I will not have such a HUGE time lapse again. So PLEASE FORGIVE ME!!!! Oh, I do have a question. It seems the chapters are definitely getting longer each time. Do you like or would you prefer shorter?
Also thank you for your critics, I have been working on the :::inserts::: and see what the writing is like without them. Also this story is going to be 10 to 11 chapters plus epilogue. The next chapter starts to get a lot more interesting (Yes kissing) so until then....
PS. THANK YOU FOR THE INCREDIBLE AND UNBELIEVABLE AMOUNT OF REVIEWS!!!! Are you trying to blow up my head?