Disclaimer:
I don't own anything about Digimon. No money is being made and no copyright or
trademark infringement is intended.
Author Notes:
Sorry about how late the story is... Frankly to be honest I still want to postpone this
chapter... Why? Because I hate it... Yes I hate this chapter... I wanted this chapter to
be a brilliantly good chapter but the problem is I started work on it two weeks ago... Got
stuck with two Research essays which I had to start research on and haven't finish still. So
after I handed my outline I started to pound out this story again but got stuck with an exam
so the story got placed on hold again... Have you ever tried to write a chapter after 2 weeks?
Let me tell you if you can and make it work out I think you are the greatest. There are only
a few authors I know that can possibly do that. One of which would be the famous and great
Teenager Rika however since I'm not that great still I hate this chapter... Did I mention that?
Anywho enough ranting and let's get going huh?
d:
Yeah, don't worry thought Ryo is not going away he's here to stay... Oh the steamer scenes?
Well I do remember someone mentioning that Henry and Rika was the only one who got them...
I thought that was a bit selfish so I decided to spread it around a bit...
Takako:
No, Alice/Sarah is not telling Ryo anything, it'll be further explained in this chapter...
Juri? Weird? Don't forget during the TV series the girl was talking through a sock pocket
part of the time... Then again I listen to voices in my head so I don't have much groands to
chose what's weird and what isn't...
Silent Angel:
It's good to see you again, I'm glad you liked the chapter. Don't get your hopes up on this
chapter, however the next chapter should be better! If I can get it out on time...
grumble, grumble
littleweirdwriter:
Well the description is because all you reviewers always point out I don't add enough. So since
I enjoy working with my Original Character and since I enjoy Ryo's character not as much as
Jenrya & Rika thought I decided to put in a lot of details with the scenery for their scene.
Glad you liked it!
Sorato4ever:
Sorry for not emailing for those mistake corrections but I've been busy... grumble Anywho I'm
glad you liked the fluff. Some in this chapter, maybe more in the next... I'll see...
BabieBlue509:
I'm glad you liked it, if you enjoy reading my fic I assure you those on my favorite stories and
favorite authors list will dazzle you. Please enjoy and read, reading is a skill taken for
granted too often.
~*Jenruki*~ :
Hm... Well I do have to agree chapter 25 came out faster then this one... Plus it's better too!
Sigh I'm going to put a lot of effort on the next chapter... I'm actually quite surprised
to see how much people like Kenta and Suzy. But then again I did take a vote so...
NiChoMiMeSaJe :
Never say fluffy is not good... As the great Stitch says, "I Love Fluffy!"
Henrika :
Two of my favorite pairings, Takato and Juri and Henry and Rika!
-;- kallie -;- :
Yes Suzy skipped all those grades, it was mentioned in a earlier chapter that she is actually
much more smarter then Kenta. I'm turning an idea in my head to show how smart Suzy is but
it's still an idea...
Perfect Little Princess :
Thank you and I hope you find the rest of the story up to stuff...
SNS :
Well yes, sort of, Ryo and Sarah might become a full thing... I'm still turning it in my mind
however they both will have a long and hard road to get there. Rika and Henry will have a
different but maybe harder road in the future... I'll leave you at that to think about.
Red Moon Kree :
Yep! Don't worry though for all you Kenta and Suzy lovers, there is more to this couple.
They aren't disappearing... Not for a long shot.
Teenager Rika :
I'm glad you liked chapter 25. As for this chapter, don't get your hopes up, I actually want
to take this chapter down and restart from the beginning but I'm sick of trying to fix it so
it'll match the storyline. Frustrated? Yes I am I still have projects and essays to do and
on top of that my bones are shivering so that means exams are close too!
Teenager Jeri :
I'm glad to see you reading the story! Ri is a great friend to praise me even though I still
believe that she is a superior writer! She won the award after all! As for the stalking...
Hm... I'll have to think about that...
Riskomon:
Thanks for the review! As for the Digimons? Well... Ergh... Embarassing enough I had to
use them just to further the plot a bit... I'll see about adding them more into the story
but I still don't want to take the story off the digi-destines.
I love Jenrya :
Well I'm sorry for the delay... However I will be putting a large effort to get the next
chapter done... So who knows maybe a week?
K. Kasai :
Thanks for the offer for help... If work continues to pile up the way it is I might just have
to take you up on the offer. However right now I'm still trying to shift through most of it
myself so it's good practice for English class.
TerrierLee :
I'm glad you think so, I'm happy to write and I hopw you enjoy the future chapters.
Thank you all for your support and I'll see about getting the next chapter out faster!
****************************************
On The Line
Chapter 26/?
*******************
The room was white, from ceiling to the floor it was all white, brightly lit there was not even
an shadow in the room. The only noise in the room was a soft tapping of someone typing on an
keyboard. Two people were in the room, one was guarding the door, occasionally glancing out to
see if anyone was in the hall, the other was creating the tapping noise as he typed on the
keyboard.
"This is definitely easier then the simulation," commented Henry.
Sarah winced but a small smile appeared on her lips, "I hate it when people say that, but I do
have to agree, this is easier then the simulation."
"I think I rather enjoy these missions if they were like this," said Henry sitting back as he
waited the computer to process the commands he laid out.
Sarah snorted, "I wouldn't mind either."
Henry raised an eyebrow in surprise, "Really? I had to pegged as a person who loved action."
Chuckling Sarah shook her head, "I always break an nail on those missions."
Before Henry could reply, the computer made a soft beeping noise, scanning over the screen,
Henry tapped in a few buttons, which logged him off the computer, making sure he erased the
passage of his hacking. "We're done," said Henry getting up from the chair he placed it back
properly.
Nodding, Sarah opened the door, making sure that the hall was clear, both agents made their way
towards the stairwell.
"So far so good," muttered Henry glancing around nervously.
Sarah gave Henry and frank look before shaking her head, quickly yet quietly both agents made
their way down the stairwell to the fire exit. Glancing at her watch Sarah waited till the
right second before opening the door. Running out both agents closed the door quickly and
waited for a minute stretching their ears for the sound of alarms.
Sarah grinned, "Good job Henry, I'm impressed."
Henry shrugged, "Hacking the fire alarm is not a big deal."
Tapping at the sub dermal implant in the back of her ear, Sarah smiled at Henry, "We're done,
request retrieval."
"Retrieval in five," came the short reply.
Turning towards the entrance of the alleyway, Henry and Sarah waited as a non-descriptive car
drove up towards them. The doors opened without slowing down both agents hopped inside and
slammed the doors shut, before the car picked up more speed.
"We'll be back to the safe-house in ten minutes ma'am," said the driver calmly.
Sarah nodded her thanks, picking up a bottle of water that was waiting for them in the car she
began to drain it. Following the suit Henry drained his water bottle while he stared out the
window.
"What's wrong Henry?" asked Sarah.
Henry shrugged glancing down at the half filled bottled water in his hand, "I'm not sure...
But I'm wondering... Can I tell..."
"No," interrupted Sarah quickly, "Rika can never know about this, about this part of your life."
Henry looked away for a second then back at Sarah angrily, "That isn't fair, I didn't ask for
this, I want Rika to know, I've never held secrets from her before, I don't want to start now!"
"You tell her and you will put her in more danger," said Sarah evenly.
"I don't tell her and I'll still be putting her in danger... I'll be putting what I have with
her in danger," Henry shot back.
Sarah sighed; putting down her bottle of water she shook her head, "Henry... Henry, this is not
a game. Rika could get hurt... We do what people don't want to do, we do what people can't
ever know, we do what people don't want to know, but most of all we do it to keep them safe."
"Rika isn't stupid Sarah, she'll figure out eventually," growled Henry clenching in bottle
tightly.
"Well you better hope not, because if she does, she'll compromise your position... And possibly
mine," said Sarah evenly, "then the company will have to take care of her."
Henry's eyes widened slightly, "Did you just..."
"Yes," Sarah said cutting Henry off, her face softened slightly as she looked at Henry, "I know
you didn't ask for this Henry... None of us really did, but this is life, loads of time, we
don't get what we want and we don't get to do what we want."
Glaring at Sarah Henry nodded, "Fine, but if you or anybody ever hurt Rika..."
"Let's hope we don't have to," answered Sarah.
An uneasy silenced filled the car as it turned towards the safe house.
*******************
The night was filled with anticipation; Odaiba Academy's lights were brightly lit, throwing back
the darkness of the night. A great number of newscaster and reporters were there; trying to
enter the Academy, it was a special night. It was the night at the young hot rising star; Rika
Nonako was going to showcase her acting debut. However an equal number of security guards were
standing in their way, checking the tickets of people before allowing them to enter into the
Academy.
Henry was concerned, first he knew he wasn't late, but the crowd of reporters at the door made
it difficult to get into the school. The second thing was the person beside him, "Do you really
have to be here?"
"I take offence to that Henry, what's wrong you don't like me suddenly?" asked Sarah miffed.
"Right now? No," answered Henry evenly.
"Protocol Henry," said Sarah quietly stepping closer she adjusted Henry's shirt properly.
"I'm not going to have a nervous break down because of that mission Alice," growled Henry
annoyed.
"I know you won't but unfortunately protocol states that after an mission, the operative must
stay under the observation of their Handlers for twenty-four hours," said Sarah sweetly smiling
at Henry.
Henry pushed her hands away from him angrily; glaring at his handler, "I don't want you here."
Sarah's eyes narrowed, "Don't tell me you are still angry for what I said in the car."
Henry's eyes widened, "What the hell do you think I'm suppose to feel? You threatened my
girlfriend… You threatened Rika."
"You are the one who brought up that subject Henry, all I did was tell the truth," Sarah shot
back. "What would you have rather had me do? Lie?"
Clenching his teeth angrily Henry knew that Sarah was in the right, he did bring up the topic,
she was just telling her the truth. But the reason why he was angry was because he didn't want
any of it, all he wanted was to be a normal boy, his life was just getting better and better.
He was doing well in school, he had the girl of his dreams, his life seem to be fill with
possibilities... Now he had a job that required him to lie to his best friend, his girlfriend,
the person he trusted more then anything; he knew it was now starting to chip away at his
relationships with Rika. That no matter what he did, it would never be enough to save the
relationship, you couldn't buy trust with flowers... He was angry for the fact that he didn't
have a choice, that he was now stuck in a doomed relationship with the girl he loved and he
couldn't do anything about it.
Shaking his head Henry quickly pushed through the crowd of reporters, handing the security guard
his ticket.
Giving a bored nod, the security guard ripped the ticket before handing it back to Henry.
Handing a similar ticket to the security guard, Sarah quickly caught back up to Henry before he
got too far from her. "You're being childish you know."
"Shut up Alice."
"Everything will work out Henry, trust me," said Sarah encouragingly.
Opening the door to the theatre, Henry turned to look at Sarah for a second, without a word
Henry walked into the theatre with Sarah following sadly behind Henry.
*******************
"I'm sorry."
Tension filled the air; the words seem heavy as if it was hung on a sign flashing brightly.
Rika shook her head, tears flowing down her face, "I don't care... You don't... You don't..."
"I should have told you... I'm sorry."
Rika looked up her violet eyes filled with pain, a glint of defiance, blinking rapidly as she
tried to clear her tears, "You lied to me."
"What would you have done in my position?" demanded Tomas anger slipping into his voice, running
a hand through his neatly combed hair.
"I would have told the truth," shouted Rika wiping away her tears uselessly.
"And risk everything? Sakura you chose him, I didn't stand in your way,"
"Yes!" shouted Rika, "I would have risked everything for the truth!"
"Dammit Sakura you know you wouldn't have," said Tomas throwing up his hands in frustration,
turning he walked a few steps before spinning back to face Rika. "You know, I fell in love with
you since the first day we met, when you sat on me and made me eat mud, I fell in love with
you. My heart pounded when you were near, my eyes would always try to find you, I would always
want to talk to you make you laugh... I didn't know how to react... I didn't know what to do
with those feelings. So after awhile I guess I got use to them, I was always feeling how much I
loved you. We became such good friends Sakura... I didn't want to risk it..."
"You should have," said Rika taking a step towards Tomas, "if you loved me you should have."
"But you chose him, you chose Tanchi, Sakura," snapped Tomas, "I didn't want to stand in the way
of your happiness."
Walking up in arms distance of Tomas Rika looked into his eyes, "Then why couldn't you see I am
happier with you... Why couldn't you see it was always you..."
Reaching out with a shaky hand Tomas caressed Rika's face, "Because I was afraid... Because I
didn't want to lose something that special."
"We already lost it," said Rika quietly, "we're no longer friends... So why don't you risk
everything now?"
"What about..."
Rika shook her head, "This is not about him... This is about us."
Nodding slightly Tomas closed the distance to Rika; pressing his lips lightly against Rika they
shared a tender kiss.
Lights dimmed, the curtains closed, wild cheering from the front row filled the air with the
clapping of the rest of the crowd. The theatre's lights lit up revealing the entire cast
standing on the stage holding hands waiting to bow together.
In the front where Rika's friends sat the cheering was still continuing as Kazu was on his feet
leaping around cheering wildly while Kenta just covered his eyes in embarrassment. Juri and
Suzy quickly ran to the stage handing bouquets of flowers to Rika who scowled at her friends.
Taking a bow the entire cast of students filed off the stage, while the wild flashes of cameras
followed them.
Rumiko Nonako enveloped Rika into a tight hug, "You were magnificent Rika."
Flushing red from embarrassment Rika slightly pulled away from her mother, "Thanks mom."
Smiling knowingly Rumiko sighed, "I'll see you at home then... Don't be too late okay."
"I won't mom," promised Rika giving her mother a rare small smile, "Mom?"
"Yes dear?"
"Thanks for... You know..."
Rumiko smiled, "I know."
Turning Rika made sure her face had her usual smirk, as her friends congratulated her, eyes
searching she was only looking for one person in particular. Frowning her eyes found Henry and
to her anger he was with another person that she recognized. Turning defiantly back to her
friends, Rika decided that if Henry wanted to talk to her he would have to come to her first.
"So are you going to talk to her?"
Henry glanced at Sarah with a soft smile that he usually had when he thought of Rika, "Not yet,
I'm going to let the others first before I monopolize her time."
Sarah watched Henry staring at Rika with a slight tinge of envy, turning her gaze her eyes fell
on Ryo Akiyama. She thought he was the most beautiful boy she had ever seen, he was attentive
and still able to be a stuck up at times... It was cute... But past history with her previous
relationships told her that it would never work... So that was what she told him, just then Ryo
looked up seeing Sarah's blue eyes staring at him, he returned her gaze. Turning red slightly
from embarrassment Sarah looked away, "Shouldn't you go talk her now Henry?"
Henry looked at Sarah in surprise from the hitch in her voice, nodding he left the wall and
started towards Rika.
Rika nodded as she half listened to Juri and Charles continued to pile compliments.
"Oh and the second scene," began Juri after Charles had finished another compliment.
Before Juri could finish her though Takato took Juri's arm, "I think we'll wait for you outside
Rika... We're all go get a bite if you're interested."
Feeling Henry behind her Rika smiled but kept her back to him.
"You were amazing," said Henry quietly.
Turning slowly Rika eyes fell on Henry, his usual tousled hair the small smile that was only for
her, his clear grey eyes filled with its usual gentleness.
"Thank-you."
"I'm sorry I didn't come earlier," said Henry looking away at the ground, "I wanted to wish you
luck..."
"No it's okay," answered Rika, "I'm just glad you came."
Henry looked up at Rika smiling, "I wouldn't have missed it for anything."
Taking a careful step closer to Henry Rika glanced over her shoulder at Sarah who stood against
the wall watching them, "Why is she here?"
Henry glanced over his shoulder at Sarah, turning back to Rika, he looked uneasy, "Um... She's
sort of here because of me," he said honestly.
Rika's eyes narrowed, "Meaning?"
"I can't tell you Rika," answered Henry.
Rika's eyes froze, her gaze turned cold turning quickly she started to stalk off.
Henry grabbed Rika's arm, "Rika wait..."
"Why should I," snapped Rika pulling her arm out of Henry's grasp.
"Because I want to tell you the truth but can't," answered Henry his voice strangled.
Rika turned back to Henry her eye's filled with pain, "You use to tell me everything Henry, I
still tell you everything what changed?"
Henry shook his head staring at his shoes he sighed; glancing around he noticed everybody in the
theatre staring at them watching the drama as it played out.
Noticing everybody in the theatre also Rika grabbed Henry's hand, pulling him towards the
backstage, "We are finishing this conversation one way or another."
Sarah's eyes followed Rika and Henry rushing off towards the backstage, taking a deep breath she
began to follow the pair.
"Going somewhere?"
Sarah turned in surprise to see Ryo standing only a meter away, "How did you do that?"
"I have a strange past," smiled Ryo.
Sarah frowned, nobody in her life had ever been able to sneak that close to her since she was
five, "You will have to tell me about it someday."
"Why are you here?" asked Ryo bluntly.
"No time for small talk?" asked Sarah in an attempt to change the subject, seeing Ryo's serious
face she knew it failed, "I can go where I want Ryo..."
"Are you here because of Henry?" asked Ryo his eyes seem to be filled with a fire that Sarah had
never seen before.
"In an manner of speaking," answered Sarah carefully.
Ryo's blue eyes darkened, "Bastard," he muttered.
"It's not what you think Ryo," said Sarah.
"You like him don't you?" asked Ryo jealousy filling his voice.
Sarah stared at Ryo unable to answer.
"Is he why? Is he why...?"
"Christ Ryo," swore Alice shaking her head, "what is this jealous streak of yours?"
Ryo threw up his hands, "I give up, I don't know what Henry has that I don't but he always gets
the girl."
Grabbing Ryo by the shoulder Alice spun him to face her; framing his face between his hands she
pressed her lips against his in a bruising kiss.
Passion filled both of them as they savoured the feeling that course through both of them;
Ryo's arms encircled Sarah. Sarah clung onto Ryo's shoulder while the other hand pushed the
back of Ryo's head firmly against her trying to increase the pressure of the kiss. Finally
after the need of air had past they pulled away from each other gasping.
"Does that answer your question you stupid bastard?" demanded Sarah.
"Then why?" asked Ryo angrily.
"Say my name!"
Ryo stared at Sarah in confusion, "Alice? Alice Hitomi?"
Sarah closed her eyes tears flowing down her face, "That's why," pushing past Ryo she ran into
the backstage.
Ryo stared at Sarah, "The hell?"
*******************
"Well that was interesting."
Kenta glanced at Kazu, "What is?"
"You didn't see what happened between Henry and Rika, then Alice and Ryo?" asked Kazu in
surprise.
"I sort of wasn't paying attention," answered Kenta sheepishly.
"What were you paying attention to then?" asked Kazu in amazement. "That was the most
interesting thing that was going on."
"Not to me," said Kenta absently.
Catching Kenta's tone Kazu glanced at where Kenta attention was. Suzy stood a few feet away
with a small smile on her face as she read the bulletins on a board. She was dressed in a
stylish pink dress; she was carrying a pink cardigan that her father had insisted she wear as
soon as he saw the dress. Well actually it was suppose to be a thick winter jacket but Suzy
was able to talk her father down with her mother's help until she agreed to the cardigan. As
soon as she stepped into the school however she took it off, happy to see Kenta's attention was
focused on her for the rest of the night.
"Earth to Kenta, earth to Kenta, you are going to overheat in a few seconds if you aren't
careful," teased Kazu rapping Kenta in the back of his head.
Kenta turned to Kazu, "Why is she wearing that?"
"Because she was hoping that you wouldn't be able to keep your attention off her," answered Kazu
amused, "and look... It's working!"
Kenta shook his head, "This is not good man... I mean look at her she's beautiful... Why would
she want to…?"
"Shut up Kenta," interrupted Kazu his smile softened the rebuke, "she chose you Kenta just be
happy will ya."
Kenta turned back his dark green eyes back to the angel that was his girlfriend, "She chose
me..."
"That's the spirit," smiled Kazu slapping Kenta in the back.
Suzy glanced at Kenta to make sure his attention was still on her, smiling she walked up to
Kenta, trying to stifle a giggle seeing how nervous Kenta was.
"Ready to go?" asked Kenta surprised that his voice sounded calm.
"Yeah, let's go grab something to eat, I'm hungry," said Suzy slipping her hand into Kenta's.
Smiling Kenta nodded turning to Kazu, "We'll be waiting with Takato and Juri,"
"Yeah, yeah, I'll tell Henry, Rika, and Ryo," answered Kazu waving his friends away, "go make
out with your girlfriend."
"Kazu!" cried Kenta in horror.
Suzy giggled as she pulled Kenta towards the door, "Thank you Kazu."
*******************
The night was calm, the air was sweet with the feeling of freedom; the night was silence except
from the noise of the occasional passing car. A full moon was out and with the combination of
the school's lights the stars were barely visible. A couple sat on a bench outside the school's
entranceway.
Juri sighed as she leaned further into Takato, the cold night's air didn't seem so frigid when
Takato was near.
Takato was doodling on a small pad of paper that he always carried.
"What are you doing Takato?" asked Juri lazily as she traced patterns on the back of Takato's
hand.
""Making a comic," said Takato absently.
"About what?"
"The Incredible Adventures of Juri Katou," said Takato smiling.
Juri rolled her eyes, "Let me see what adventure you got me into now."
Grinning Takato showed Juri his drawing.
Juri's brown eyes wandered over the drawing, it's detail was amazing as well as the art behind
it especially when it was due to a ball point pen, but then Takato was a natural artist.
The drawing showed a great dragon, its large fangs seemed to glisten as it breathed out a great
stream of fire. Standing a few feet away from the dragon stood a lone girl holding up a large
round shield that deflected the flame blast, in the other hand she held a great sword that
dripped with blood. The face of the warrior girl was unmistakeable as it was the same as Juri
Katou a defiant cry seemed to be on the lips of the drawing of Juri. The drawing of the warrior
Juri wore what seemed to be a tattered remains of a bikini that was nearly falling off.
"Do you like it?" asked Takato.
"Sort of but why am I wearing a tattered bikini?" asked Juri raising an eyebrow.
Takato turned slightly red, "Um... Artist imagination?"
Juri shook her head, "And what in the world are those?" demanded Juri pointing a finger at
picture of herself breasts.
"What's wrong with them?" asked Takato trying to keep a straight face.
"Wishing much?" asked Juri amused, "Those are bigger then watermelons Takato, how on earth to I
keep from falling on my face?"
Flushed red from the embarrassment of getting caught by his girlfriend, Takato tried to shrug
naturally, "It's sort of... You know... Drawing style."
"Uh-huh," said Juri clearly not believing Takato, "well keep that over achieving imagination and
drawing style in check Takato."
Not meeting Juri's eyes Takato put away his notebook in fear from more words from his
girlfriend, "Wonder where is everyone..."
Deciding that Takato was contrite enough Juri allowed the change in subject, "Rika is probably
changing Takato, don't think it would look so good in a burger joint."
"Hm," murmured Takato slipping both arms around Juri.
Juri sighed contently as she leaned closer to Takato, "You're soft," she murmured closing her
eyes.
"Thank-you," said Takato smiling.
"You smell good too," sighed Juri.
"I'll contribute that to my grooming products," joked Takato.
"No it's not shampoo or anything, its Takato smell," said Juri grinning.
Takato frowned taking a sniff of himself he continued to frown as he glanced down at Juri, "I
took a shower before hand."
"Takato..."
"Yes Juri?"
"Be quiet will you?"
"Okay," nodded Takato, "Juri?""
"Yes Takato?"
"Can I kiss you while I be quiet?"
Juri eyes opened in surprise, "Wha..."
Juri was cut off by Takato's mouth as it sealed over hers, sighing Juri's eyes closed as she
melted deeper into Takato's arms.
*******************
"So are you going to talk?" asked Rika changing clothes.
"What do you want me to say?" asked Henry leaning against the wall he stared at the small change
cubicle that Rika was in.
"The truth Henry," answered Rika stepping out of the cubicle.
Henry stared at Rika, no longer clad in the long flowing white robe she was beautiful, her hair
was still in a ponytail but the night's events had cause several of the strands of her hair to
escape. She wore a dark blue t-shirt with her usual blue jeans. The only difference in her
usual appearance was a grey vest that she wore, Henry recognized as his that went missing
several years ago. He had bought it one year to replace his fading orange one but he didn't
like wearing it, he made the comment to Rika one year. Apparently she had helped herself to his
clothes during one of their study times.
"You're beautiful," said Henry softly.
Rika smiled at Henry, "Thank-you."
"I know," answered Henry hopeless adoration filling his eyes, "you know I love you right?"
Rika nodded slowly.
"Then know, I want to tell you... I want to tell you everything but I can't," said Henry
carefully, "I know that's not much... I know it isn't what you want to hear... If you can't
take that as an answer then..."
"It's enough," interrupted Rika quickly, "I'm sorry Henry, I know I should trust you but..."
Henry shook his head, "No, I know, if I was in your shoes..."
"Then your big feet will be in pain," joked Rika.
Henry smiled, "Are we okay?"
"We're always okay," said Rika smiling.
Henry sighed in relief but before he could speak a knock on the door interrupted them; turning
with a frown at the door he opened it. To both Henry and Rika's surprise Sarah stood at the
door tears flowing from her eyes, "Henry I need to talk to you..."
Henry mouth opened and closed several times, turning to Rika to see her reaction.
Rika eyes tightened slightly but then relaxed as she remind herself why she trusted Henry, "its
okay Henry, find out what she wants... I'll be waiting with the rest of the guys for you...
And Alice if she wants to join."
Nodding in thanks Henry kissed Rika softly on the cheek as she left; opening the door wider to
allow Sarah to slip in Henry closed the door shut, "What happened?"
Sarah's fist connected with Henry's head sending him spinning into the wall sliding down to the
floor.
"Okay," said Henry bewildered rubbing the stinging spot with a hand, "I don't know what I did
but that hurt..."
"Dam you Henry why did you have to do this to me?" demanded Sarah angrily.
"Do what?" asked Henry confused.
"Introduce me to Ryo," snapped Sarah.
"What in the world did he do to earn me a punch to the head?" asked Henry getting back up to his
feet.
"Don't you think I want to be normal? Don't you think I would like to have an normal life like
everyone else?" asked Sarah angrily.
Henry shook his head to show he still didn't know what Sarah was talking about.
"I kissed him Henry!" cried Sarah.
Henry looked in surprise, "You kissed him?"
Sarah slumped into a chair staring at one of the makeup mirrors in defeat.
"Was he that bad?" Henry glanced at one of the mirrors to check if he was going to have a
bruise.
"No, he was amazing," murmured Sarah in horror.
"Sarah," said Henry quietly, "I still don't know what you're talking about."
"Henry, I like Ryo," admitted Sarah, "the problem is he doesn't know me, he think he does, but
he doesn't... On top of that I don't want to put him in danger, our jobs aren't safe Henry, I
don't want to see Ryo hurt."
"Ryo is a big boy," said Henry smiling softly, knowing that Ryo had survived in the Digital
World for a numerous amount of years, "he'll be okay."
"When you care about someone Henry you don't want them to be in any danger," said Sarah softly.
Nodding in understanding Henry putting a hand on Sarah's shoulder, "So what do you want to do?"
"I want to forget about him," answered Sarah biting her lower lip, "I don't want to remember
anything about Ryo Akiyama because he's something that I will never have even though I want
him."
Henry frowned, "Are you sure Sarah?"
Sarah looked away for a second before nodding slowly.
"We'll that's not going to help," said Henry coldly, "Sarah you can't run from this..."
Sarah turned in surprise from Henry's voice, "What..."
"I'm not done Sarah," interrupted Henry, taking Sarah's hand into his own he looked into her
eyes, "we may have complicated lives, you may have had bad experiences, but if we don't try to
make relationships we want to work then what is the bother of protecting these people? Sarah
you have to try."
Sarah stared into Henry's eyes, "You are still so filled with optimism Henry it's going to hurt
when you fall."
"Then at least I'm going to fall trying," answered Henry, "answer this Sarah, do you think Ryo
is worth falling?"
Sarah averted her eyes from Henry's gaze; closing her eyes she took a tired breath, "Yes... I
think he is worth it."
"Then you have to try Sarah," answered Henry.
Sarah nodded slowly, "I'm scared."
Henry smiled, "Welcome to the world of normal people."
Sarah smiled at Henry, "Thanks."
*******************
I don't own anything about Digimon. No money is being made and no copyright or
trademark infringement is intended.
Author Notes:
Sorry about how late the story is... Frankly to be honest I still want to postpone this
chapter... Why? Because I hate it... Yes I hate this chapter... I wanted this chapter to
be a brilliantly good chapter but the problem is I started work on it two weeks ago... Got
stuck with two Research essays which I had to start research on and haven't finish still. So
after I handed my outline I started to pound out this story again but got stuck with an exam
so the story got placed on hold again... Have you ever tried to write a chapter after 2 weeks?
Let me tell you if you can and make it work out I think you are the greatest. There are only
a few authors I know that can possibly do that. One of which would be the famous and great
Teenager Rika however since I'm not that great still I hate this chapter... Did I mention that?
Anywho enough ranting and let's get going huh?
d:
Yeah, don't worry thought Ryo is not going away he's here to stay... Oh the steamer scenes?
Well I do remember someone mentioning that Henry and Rika was the only one who got them...
I thought that was a bit selfish so I decided to spread it around a bit...
Takako:
No, Alice/Sarah is not telling Ryo anything, it'll be further explained in this chapter...
Juri? Weird? Don't forget during the TV series the girl was talking through a sock pocket
part of the time... Then again I listen to voices in my head so I don't have much groands to
chose what's weird and what isn't...
Silent Angel:
It's good to see you again, I'm glad you liked the chapter. Don't get your hopes up on this
chapter, however the next chapter should be better! If I can get it out on time...
grumble, grumble
littleweirdwriter:
Well the description is because all you reviewers always point out I don't add enough. So since
I enjoy working with my Original Character and since I enjoy Ryo's character not as much as
Jenrya & Rika thought I decided to put in a lot of details with the scenery for their scene.
Glad you liked it!
Sorato4ever:
Sorry for not emailing for those mistake corrections but I've been busy... grumble Anywho I'm
glad you liked the fluff. Some in this chapter, maybe more in the next... I'll see...
BabieBlue509:
I'm glad you liked it, if you enjoy reading my fic I assure you those on my favorite stories and
favorite authors list will dazzle you. Please enjoy and read, reading is a skill taken for
granted too often.
~*Jenruki*~ :
Hm... Well I do have to agree chapter 25 came out faster then this one... Plus it's better too!
Sigh I'm going to put a lot of effort on the next chapter... I'm actually quite surprised
to see how much people like Kenta and Suzy. But then again I did take a vote so...
NiChoMiMeSaJe :
Never say fluffy is not good... As the great Stitch says, "I Love Fluffy!"
Henrika :
Two of my favorite pairings, Takato and Juri and Henry and Rika!
-;- kallie -;- :
Yes Suzy skipped all those grades, it was mentioned in a earlier chapter that she is actually
much more smarter then Kenta. I'm turning an idea in my head to show how smart Suzy is but
it's still an idea...
Perfect Little Princess :
Thank you and I hope you find the rest of the story up to stuff...
SNS :
Well yes, sort of, Ryo and Sarah might become a full thing... I'm still turning it in my mind
however they both will have a long and hard road to get there. Rika and Henry will have a
different but maybe harder road in the future... I'll leave you at that to think about.
Red Moon Kree :
Yep! Don't worry though for all you Kenta and Suzy lovers, there is more to this couple.
They aren't disappearing... Not for a long shot.
Teenager Rika :
I'm glad you liked chapter 25. As for this chapter, don't get your hopes up, I actually want
to take this chapter down and restart from the beginning but I'm sick of trying to fix it so
it'll match the storyline. Frustrated? Yes I am I still have projects and essays to do and
on top of that my bones are shivering so that means exams are close too!
Teenager Jeri :
I'm glad to see you reading the story! Ri is a great friend to praise me even though I still
believe that she is a superior writer! She won the award after all! As for the stalking...
Hm... I'll have to think about that...
Riskomon:
Thanks for the review! As for the Digimons? Well... Ergh... Embarassing enough I had to
use them just to further the plot a bit... I'll see about adding them more into the story
but I still don't want to take the story off the digi-destines.
I love Jenrya :
Well I'm sorry for the delay... However I will be putting a large effort to get the next
chapter done... So who knows maybe a week?
K. Kasai :
Thanks for the offer for help... If work continues to pile up the way it is I might just have
to take you up on the offer. However right now I'm still trying to shift through most of it
myself so it's good practice for English class.
TerrierLee :
I'm glad you think so, I'm happy to write and I hopw you enjoy the future chapters.
Thank you all for your support and I'll see about getting the next chapter out faster!
****************************************
On The Line
Chapter 26/?
*******************
The room was white, from ceiling to the floor it was all white, brightly lit there was not even
an shadow in the room. The only noise in the room was a soft tapping of someone typing on an
keyboard. Two people were in the room, one was guarding the door, occasionally glancing out to
see if anyone was in the hall, the other was creating the tapping noise as he typed on the
keyboard.
"This is definitely easier then the simulation," commented Henry.
Sarah winced but a small smile appeared on her lips, "I hate it when people say that, but I do
have to agree, this is easier then the simulation."
"I think I rather enjoy these missions if they were like this," said Henry sitting back as he
waited the computer to process the commands he laid out.
Sarah snorted, "I wouldn't mind either."
Henry raised an eyebrow in surprise, "Really? I had to pegged as a person who loved action."
Chuckling Sarah shook her head, "I always break an nail on those missions."
Before Henry could reply, the computer made a soft beeping noise, scanning over the screen,
Henry tapped in a few buttons, which logged him off the computer, making sure he erased the
passage of his hacking. "We're done," said Henry getting up from the chair he placed it back
properly.
Nodding, Sarah opened the door, making sure that the hall was clear, both agents made their way
towards the stairwell.
"So far so good," muttered Henry glancing around nervously.
Sarah gave Henry and frank look before shaking her head, quickly yet quietly both agents made
their way down the stairwell to the fire exit. Glancing at her watch Sarah waited till the
right second before opening the door. Running out both agents closed the door quickly and
waited for a minute stretching their ears for the sound of alarms.
Sarah grinned, "Good job Henry, I'm impressed."
Henry shrugged, "Hacking the fire alarm is not a big deal."
Tapping at the sub dermal implant in the back of her ear, Sarah smiled at Henry, "We're done,
request retrieval."
"Retrieval in five," came the short reply.
Turning towards the entrance of the alleyway, Henry and Sarah waited as a non-descriptive car
drove up towards them. The doors opened without slowing down both agents hopped inside and
slammed the doors shut, before the car picked up more speed.
"We'll be back to the safe-house in ten minutes ma'am," said the driver calmly.
Sarah nodded her thanks, picking up a bottle of water that was waiting for them in the car she
began to drain it. Following the suit Henry drained his water bottle while he stared out the
window.
"What's wrong Henry?" asked Sarah.
Henry shrugged glancing down at the half filled bottled water in his hand, "I'm not sure...
But I'm wondering... Can I tell..."
"No," interrupted Sarah quickly, "Rika can never know about this, about this part of your life."
Henry looked away for a second then back at Sarah angrily, "That isn't fair, I didn't ask for
this, I want Rika to know, I've never held secrets from her before, I don't want to start now!"
"You tell her and you will put her in more danger," said Sarah evenly.
"I don't tell her and I'll still be putting her in danger... I'll be putting what I have with
her in danger," Henry shot back.
Sarah sighed; putting down her bottle of water she shook her head, "Henry... Henry, this is not
a game. Rika could get hurt... We do what people don't want to do, we do what people can't
ever know, we do what people don't want to know, but most of all we do it to keep them safe."
"Rika isn't stupid Sarah, she'll figure out eventually," growled Henry clenching in bottle
tightly.
"Well you better hope not, because if she does, she'll compromise your position... And possibly
mine," said Sarah evenly, "then the company will have to take care of her."
Henry's eyes widened slightly, "Did you just..."
"Yes," Sarah said cutting Henry off, her face softened slightly as she looked at Henry, "I know
you didn't ask for this Henry... None of us really did, but this is life, loads of time, we
don't get what we want and we don't get to do what we want."
Glaring at Sarah Henry nodded, "Fine, but if you or anybody ever hurt Rika..."
"Let's hope we don't have to," answered Sarah.
An uneasy silenced filled the car as it turned towards the safe house.
*******************
The night was filled with anticipation; Odaiba Academy's lights were brightly lit, throwing back
the darkness of the night. A great number of newscaster and reporters were there; trying to
enter the Academy, it was a special night. It was the night at the young hot rising star; Rika
Nonako was going to showcase her acting debut. However an equal number of security guards were
standing in their way, checking the tickets of people before allowing them to enter into the
Academy.
Henry was concerned, first he knew he wasn't late, but the crowd of reporters at the door made
it difficult to get into the school. The second thing was the person beside him, "Do you really
have to be here?"
"I take offence to that Henry, what's wrong you don't like me suddenly?" asked Sarah miffed.
"Right now? No," answered Henry evenly.
"Protocol Henry," said Sarah quietly stepping closer she adjusted Henry's shirt properly.
"I'm not going to have a nervous break down because of that mission Alice," growled Henry
annoyed.
"I know you won't but unfortunately protocol states that after an mission, the operative must
stay under the observation of their Handlers for twenty-four hours," said Sarah sweetly smiling
at Henry.
Henry pushed her hands away from him angrily; glaring at his handler, "I don't want you here."
Sarah's eyes narrowed, "Don't tell me you are still angry for what I said in the car."
Henry's eyes widened, "What the hell do you think I'm suppose to feel? You threatened my
girlfriend… You threatened Rika."
"You are the one who brought up that subject Henry, all I did was tell the truth," Sarah shot
back. "What would you have rather had me do? Lie?"
Clenching his teeth angrily Henry knew that Sarah was in the right, he did bring up the topic,
she was just telling her the truth. But the reason why he was angry was because he didn't want
any of it, all he wanted was to be a normal boy, his life was just getting better and better.
He was doing well in school, he had the girl of his dreams, his life seem to be fill with
possibilities... Now he had a job that required him to lie to his best friend, his girlfriend,
the person he trusted more then anything; he knew it was now starting to chip away at his
relationships with Rika. That no matter what he did, it would never be enough to save the
relationship, you couldn't buy trust with flowers... He was angry for the fact that he didn't
have a choice, that he was now stuck in a doomed relationship with the girl he loved and he
couldn't do anything about it.
Shaking his head Henry quickly pushed through the crowd of reporters, handing the security guard
his ticket.
Giving a bored nod, the security guard ripped the ticket before handing it back to Henry.
Handing a similar ticket to the security guard, Sarah quickly caught back up to Henry before he
got too far from her. "You're being childish you know."
"Shut up Alice."
"Everything will work out Henry, trust me," said Sarah encouragingly.
Opening the door to the theatre, Henry turned to look at Sarah for a second, without a word
Henry walked into the theatre with Sarah following sadly behind Henry.
*******************
"I'm sorry."
Tension filled the air; the words seem heavy as if it was hung on a sign flashing brightly.
Rika shook her head, tears flowing down her face, "I don't care... You don't... You don't..."
"I should have told you... I'm sorry."
Rika looked up her violet eyes filled with pain, a glint of defiance, blinking rapidly as she
tried to clear her tears, "You lied to me."
"What would you have done in my position?" demanded Tomas anger slipping into his voice, running
a hand through his neatly combed hair.
"I would have told the truth," shouted Rika wiping away her tears uselessly.
"And risk everything? Sakura you chose him, I didn't stand in your way,"
"Yes!" shouted Rika, "I would have risked everything for the truth!"
"Dammit Sakura you know you wouldn't have," said Tomas throwing up his hands in frustration,
turning he walked a few steps before spinning back to face Rika. "You know, I fell in love with
you since the first day we met, when you sat on me and made me eat mud, I fell in love with
you. My heart pounded when you were near, my eyes would always try to find you, I would always
want to talk to you make you laugh... I didn't know how to react... I didn't know what to do
with those feelings. So after awhile I guess I got use to them, I was always feeling how much I
loved you. We became such good friends Sakura... I didn't want to risk it..."
"You should have," said Rika taking a step towards Tomas, "if you loved me you should have."
"But you chose him, you chose Tanchi, Sakura," snapped Tomas, "I didn't want to stand in the way
of your happiness."
Walking up in arms distance of Tomas Rika looked into his eyes, "Then why couldn't you see I am
happier with you... Why couldn't you see it was always you..."
Reaching out with a shaky hand Tomas caressed Rika's face, "Because I was afraid... Because I
didn't want to lose something that special."
"We already lost it," said Rika quietly, "we're no longer friends... So why don't you risk
everything now?"
"What about..."
Rika shook her head, "This is not about him... This is about us."
Nodding slightly Tomas closed the distance to Rika; pressing his lips lightly against Rika they
shared a tender kiss.
Lights dimmed, the curtains closed, wild cheering from the front row filled the air with the
clapping of the rest of the crowd. The theatre's lights lit up revealing the entire cast
standing on the stage holding hands waiting to bow together.
In the front where Rika's friends sat the cheering was still continuing as Kazu was on his feet
leaping around cheering wildly while Kenta just covered his eyes in embarrassment. Juri and
Suzy quickly ran to the stage handing bouquets of flowers to Rika who scowled at her friends.
Taking a bow the entire cast of students filed off the stage, while the wild flashes of cameras
followed them.
Rumiko Nonako enveloped Rika into a tight hug, "You were magnificent Rika."
Flushing red from embarrassment Rika slightly pulled away from her mother, "Thanks mom."
Smiling knowingly Rumiko sighed, "I'll see you at home then... Don't be too late okay."
"I won't mom," promised Rika giving her mother a rare small smile, "Mom?"
"Yes dear?"
"Thanks for... You know..."
Rumiko smiled, "I know."
Turning Rika made sure her face had her usual smirk, as her friends congratulated her, eyes
searching she was only looking for one person in particular. Frowning her eyes found Henry and
to her anger he was with another person that she recognized. Turning defiantly back to her
friends, Rika decided that if Henry wanted to talk to her he would have to come to her first.
"So are you going to talk to her?"
Henry glanced at Sarah with a soft smile that he usually had when he thought of Rika, "Not yet,
I'm going to let the others first before I monopolize her time."
Sarah watched Henry staring at Rika with a slight tinge of envy, turning her gaze her eyes fell
on Ryo Akiyama. She thought he was the most beautiful boy she had ever seen, he was attentive
and still able to be a stuck up at times... It was cute... But past history with her previous
relationships told her that it would never work... So that was what she told him, just then Ryo
looked up seeing Sarah's blue eyes staring at him, he returned her gaze. Turning red slightly
from embarrassment Sarah looked away, "Shouldn't you go talk her now Henry?"
Henry looked at Sarah in surprise from the hitch in her voice, nodding he left the wall and
started towards Rika.
Rika nodded as she half listened to Juri and Charles continued to pile compliments.
"Oh and the second scene," began Juri after Charles had finished another compliment.
Before Juri could finish her though Takato took Juri's arm, "I think we'll wait for you outside
Rika... We're all go get a bite if you're interested."
Feeling Henry behind her Rika smiled but kept her back to him.
"You were amazing," said Henry quietly.
Turning slowly Rika eyes fell on Henry, his usual tousled hair the small smile that was only for
her, his clear grey eyes filled with its usual gentleness.
"Thank-you."
"I'm sorry I didn't come earlier," said Henry looking away at the ground, "I wanted to wish you
luck..."
"No it's okay," answered Rika, "I'm just glad you came."
Henry looked up at Rika smiling, "I wouldn't have missed it for anything."
Taking a careful step closer to Henry Rika glanced over her shoulder at Sarah who stood against
the wall watching them, "Why is she here?"
Henry glanced over his shoulder at Sarah, turning back to Rika, he looked uneasy, "Um... She's
sort of here because of me," he said honestly.
Rika's eyes narrowed, "Meaning?"
"I can't tell you Rika," answered Henry.
Rika's eyes froze, her gaze turned cold turning quickly she started to stalk off.
Henry grabbed Rika's arm, "Rika wait..."
"Why should I," snapped Rika pulling her arm out of Henry's grasp.
"Because I want to tell you the truth but can't," answered Henry his voice strangled.
Rika turned back to Henry her eye's filled with pain, "You use to tell me everything Henry, I
still tell you everything what changed?"
Henry shook his head staring at his shoes he sighed; glancing around he noticed everybody in the
theatre staring at them watching the drama as it played out.
Noticing everybody in the theatre also Rika grabbed Henry's hand, pulling him towards the
backstage, "We are finishing this conversation one way or another."
Sarah's eyes followed Rika and Henry rushing off towards the backstage, taking a deep breath she
began to follow the pair.
"Going somewhere?"
Sarah turned in surprise to see Ryo standing only a meter away, "How did you do that?"
"I have a strange past," smiled Ryo.
Sarah frowned, nobody in her life had ever been able to sneak that close to her since she was
five, "You will have to tell me about it someday."
"Why are you here?" asked Ryo bluntly.
"No time for small talk?" asked Sarah in an attempt to change the subject, seeing Ryo's serious
face she knew it failed, "I can go where I want Ryo..."
"Are you here because of Henry?" asked Ryo his eyes seem to be filled with a fire that Sarah had
never seen before.
"In an manner of speaking," answered Sarah carefully.
Ryo's blue eyes darkened, "Bastard," he muttered.
"It's not what you think Ryo," said Sarah.
"You like him don't you?" asked Ryo jealousy filling his voice.
Sarah stared at Ryo unable to answer.
"Is he why? Is he why...?"
"Christ Ryo," swore Alice shaking her head, "what is this jealous streak of yours?"
Ryo threw up his hands, "I give up, I don't know what Henry has that I don't but he always gets
the girl."
Grabbing Ryo by the shoulder Alice spun him to face her; framing his face between his hands she
pressed her lips against his in a bruising kiss.
Passion filled both of them as they savoured the feeling that course through both of them;
Ryo's arms encircled Sarah. Sarah clung onto Ryo's shoulder while the other hand pushed the
back of Ryo's head firmly against her trying to increase the pressure of the kiss. Finally
after the need of air had past they pulled away from each other gasping.
"Does that answer your question you stupid bastard?" demanded Sarah.
"Then why?" asked Ryo angrily.
"Say my name!"
Ryo stared at Sarah in confusion, "Alice? Alice Hitomi?"
Sarah closed her eyes tears flowing down her face, "That's why," pushing past Ryo she ran into
the backstage.
Ryo stared at Sarah, "The hell?"
*******************
"Well that was interesting."
Kenta glanced at Kazu, "What is?"
"You didn't see what happened between Henry and Rika, then Alice and Ryo?" asked Kazu in
surprise.
"I sort of wasn't paying attention," answered Kenta sheepishly.
"What were you paying attention to then?" asked Kazu in amazement. "That was the most
interesting thing that was going on."
"Not to me," said Kenta absently.
Catching Kenta's tone Kazu glanced at where Kenta attention was. Suzy stood a few feet away
with a small smile on her face as she read the bulletins on a board. She was dressed in a
stylish pink dress; she was carrying a pink cardigan that her father had insisted she wear as
soon as he saw the dress. Well actually it was suppose to be a thick winter jacket but Suzy
was able to talk her father down with her mother's help until she agreed to the cardigan. As
soon as she stepped into the school however she took it off, happy to see Kenta's attention was
focused on her for the rest of the night.
"Earth to Kenta, earth to Kenta, you are going to overheat in a few seconds if you aren't
careful," teased Kazu rapping Kenta in the back of his head.
Kenta turned to Kazu, "Why is she wearing that?"
"Because she was hoping that you wouldn't be able to keep your attention off her," answered Kazu
amused, "and look... It's working!"
Kenta shook his head, "This is not good man... I mean look at her she's beautiful... Why would
she want to…?"
"Shut up Kenta," interrupted Kazu his smile softened the rebuke, "she chose you Kenta just be
happy will ya."
Kenta turned back his dark green eyes back to the angel that was his girlfriend, "She chose
me..."
"That's the spirit," smiled Kazu slapping Kenta in the back.
Suzy glanced at Kenta to make sure his attention was still on her, smiling she walked up to
Kenta, trying to stifle a giggle seeing how nervous Kenta was.
"Ready to go?" asked Kenta surprised that his voice sounded calm.
"Yeah, let's go grab something to eat, I'm hungry," said Suzy slipping her hand into Kenta's.
Smiling Kenta nodded turning to Kazu, "We'll be waiting with Takato and Juri,"
"Yeah, yeah, I'll tell Henry, Rika, and Ryo," answered Kazu waving his friends away, "go make
out with your girlfriend."
"Kazu!" cried Kenta in horror.
Suzy giggled as she pulled Kenta towards the door, "Thank you Kazu."
*******************
The night was calm, the air was sweet with the feeling of freedom; the night was silence except
from the noise of the occasional passing car. A full moon was out and with the combination of
the school's lights the stars were barely visible. A couple sat on a bench outside the school's
entranceway.
Juri sighed as she leaned further into Takato, the cold night's air didn't seem so frigid when
Takato was near.
Takato was doodling on a small pad of paper that he always carried.
"What are you doing Takato?" asked Juri lazily as she traced patterns on the back of Takato's
hand.
""Making a comic," said Takato absently.
"About what?"
"The Incredible Adventures of Juri Katou," said Takato smiling.
Juri rolled her eyes, "Let me see what adventure you got me into now."
Grinning Takato showed Juri his drawing.
Juri's brown eyes wandered over the drawing, it's detail was amazing as well as the art behind
it especially when it was due to a ball point pen, but then Takato was a natural artist.
The drawing showed a great dragon, its large fangs seemed to glisten as it breathed out a great
stream of fire. Standing a few feet away from the dragon stood a lone girl holding up a large
round shield that deflected the flame blast, in the other hand she held a great sword that
dripped with blood. The face of the warrior girl was unmistakeable as it was the same as Juri
Katou a defiant cry seemed to be on the lips of the drawing of Juri. The drawing of the warrior
Juri wore what seemed to be a tattered remains of a bikini that was nearly falling off.
"Do you like it?" asked Takato.
"Sort of but why am I wearing a tattered bikini?" asked Juri raising an eyebrow.
Takato turned slightly red, "Um... Artist imagination?"
Juri shook her head, "And what in the world are those?" demanded Juri pointing a finger at
picture of herself breasts.
"What's wrong with them?" asked Takato trying to keep a straight face.
"Wishing much?" asked Juri amused, "Those are bigger then watermelons Takato, how on earth to I
keep from falling on my face?"
Flushed red from the embarrassment of getting caught by his girlfriend, Takato tried to shrug
naturally, "It's sort of... You know... Drawing style."
"Uh-huh," said Juri clearly not believing Takato, "well keep that over achieving imagination and
drawing style in check Takato."
Not meeting Juri's eyes Takato put away his notebook in fear from more words from his
girlfriend, "Wonder where is everyone..."
Deciding that Takato was contrite enough Juri allowed the change in subject, "Rika is probably
changing Takato, don't think it would look so good in a burger joint."
"Hm," murmured Takato slipping both arms around Juri.
Juri sighed contently as she leaned closer to Takato, "You're soft," she murmured closing her
eyes.
"Thank-you," said Takato smiling.
"You smell good too," sighed Juri.
"I'll contribute that to my grooming products," joked Takato.
"No it's not shampoo or anything, its Takato smell," said Juri grinning.
Takato frowned taking a sniff of himself he continued to frown as he glanced down at Juri, "I
took a shower before hand."
"Takato..."
"Yes Juri?"
"Be quiet will you?"
"Okay," nodded Takato, "Juri?""
"Yes Takato?"
"Can I kiss you while I be quiet?"
Juri eyes opened in surprise, "Wha..."
Juri was cut off by Takato's mouth as it sealed over hers, sighing Juri's eyes closed as she
melted deeper into Takato's arms.
*******************
"So are you going to talk?" asked Rika changing clothes.
"What do you want me to say?" asked Henry leaning against the wall he stared at the small change
cubicle that Rika was in.
"The truth Henry," answered Rika stepping out of the cubicle.
Henry stared at Rika, no longer clad in the long flowing white robe she was beautiful, her hair
was still in a ponytail but the night's events had cause several of the strands of her hair to
escape. She wore a dark blue t-shirt with her usual blue jeans. The only difference in her
usual appearance was a grey vest that she wore, Henry recognized as his that went missing
several years ago. He had bought it one year to replace his fading orange one but he didn't
like wearing it, he made the comment to Rika one year. Apparently she had helped herself to his
clothes during one of their study times.
"You're beautiful," said Henry softly.
Rika smiled at Henry, "Thank-you."
"I know," answered Henry hopeless adoration filling his eyes, "you know I love you right?"
Rika nodded slowly.
"Then know, I want to tell you... I want to tell you everything but I can't," said Henry
carefully, "I know that's not much... I know it isn't what you want to hear... If you can't
take that as an answer then..."
"It's enough," interrupted Rika quickly, "I'm sorry Henry, I know I should trust you but..."
Henry shook his head, "No, I know, if I was in your shoes..."
"Then your big feet will be in pain," joked Rika.
Henry smiled, "Are we okay?"
"We're always okay," said Rika smiling.
Henry sighed in relief but before he could speak a knock on the door interrupted them; turning
with a frown at the door he opened it. To both Henry and Rika's surprise Sarah stood at the
door tears flowing from her eyes, "Henry I need to talk to you..."
Henry mouth opened and closed several times, turning to Rika to see her reaction.
Rika eyes tightened slightly but then relaxed as she remind herself why she trusted Henry, "its
okay Henry, find out what she wants... I'll be waiting with the rest of the guys for you...
And Alice if she wants to join."
Nodding in thanks Henry kissed Rika softly on the cheek as she left; opening the door wider to
allow Sarah to slip in Henry closed the door shut, "What happened?"
Sarah's fist connected with Henry's head sending him spinning into the wall sliding down to the
floor.
"Okay," said Henry bewildered rubbing the stinging spot with a hand, "I don't know what I did
but that hurt..."
"Dam you Henry why did you have to do this to me?" demanded Sarah angrily.
"Do what?" asked Henry confused.
"Introduce me to Ryo," snapped Sarah.
"What in the world did he do to earn me a punch to the head?" asked Henry getting back up to his
feet.
"Don't you think I want to be normal? Don't you think I would like to have an normal life like
everyone else?" asked Sarah angrily.
Henry shook his head to show he still didn't know what Sarah was talking about.
"I kissed him Henry!" cried Sarah.
Henry looked in surprise, "You kissed him?"
Sarah slumped into a chair staring at one of the makeup mirrors in defeat.
"Was he that bad?" Henry glanced at one of the mirrors to check if he was going to have a
bruise.
"No, he was amazing," murmured Sarah in horror.
"Sarah," said Henry quietly, "I still don't know what you're talking about."
"Henry, I like Ryo," admitted Sarah, "the problem is he doesn't know me, he think he does, but
he doesn't... On top of that I don't want to put him in danger, our jobs aren't safe Henry, I
don't want to see Ryo hurt."
"Ryo is a big boy," said Henry smiling softly, knowing that Ryo had survived in the Digital
World for a numerous amount of years, "he'll be okay."
"When you care about someone Henry you don't want them to be in any danger," said Sarah softly.
Nodding in understanding Henry putting a hand on Sarah's shoulder, "So what do you want to do?"
"I want to forget about him," answered Sarah biting her lower lip, "I don't want to remember
anything about Ryo Akiyama because he's something that I will never have even though I want
him."
Henry frowned, "Are you sure Sarah?"
Sarah looked away for a second before nodding slowly.
"We'll that's not going to help," said Henry coldly, "Sarah you can't run from this..."
Sarah turned in surprise from Henry's voice, "What..."
"I'm not done Sarah," interrupted Henry, taking Sarah's hand into his own he looked into her
eyes, "we may have complicated lives, you may have had bad experiences, but if we don't try to
make relationships we want to work then what is the bother of protecting these people? Sarah
you have to try."
Sarah stared into Henry's eyes, "You are still so filled with optimism Henry it's going to hurt
when you fall."
"Then at least I'm going to fall trying," answered Henry, "answer this Sarah, do you think Ryo
is worth falling?"
Sarah averted her eyes from Henry's gaze; closing her eyes she took a tired breath, "Yes... I
think he is worth it."
"Then you have to try Sarah," answered Henry.
Sarah nodded slowly, "I'm scared."
Henry smiled, "Welcome to the world of normal people."
Sarah smiled at Henry, "Thanks."
*******************
