Disclaimer: Don't own it!
Author's Note: Hey all! It's been a bit, but have no fear, because I'm takin' this baby all the way to the end. Anyway, this chapter is longer and hopefully more entertaining than the last one. Enjoy! Happy Readings!
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I heard voices. They were far away and fell as mere murmurs upon my subconscious. They acted as a teetering bridge between my slumbering state, and my impending consciousness. How I was beginning to loathe awakening. All it ever seemed to bring was fear, pain, and suffering. Every time I awoke, it seemed as though something else had gone wrong in my life.
I felt, rather than heard, myself groan as the voices became more recognizable and their words more comprehendible. I could make out what the voices were saying, but my brain was still reluctant to arrange them in any way where I would be able to understand them. It was like the words were strangely out of sequence, yet I knew they were not, for I recognized the steady patterns of speech to be correct.
"Rei."
I understood that word. That was me. That was my name. Rei. I was beginning to loathe IT as well, for it felt as though all of the negative things in the world revolved around it . . . around me, lately.
My mouth mumbled something, and my body shifted. I wondered where exactly it was I had fallen asleep THAT time.
"Rei, wake up," said the same voice. "Come ON, Rei, you can't sleep all day."
Oh really? I begged to differ.
However, I was mistaken in my differing, for it turned out I COULDN'T sleep all day, and it was a certain blonde's FAULT. It was the harsh, continuous yanking on my arm that caused me to open my eyes, though I did so begrudgingly. Immediately, I was met with blonde hair and blue eyes.
I hadn't noticed it before that morning, but Max was very . . . bright.
I squinted up at him and proceeded to frown.
"Go away, Max," I said.
I attempted to turn over on whatever it was I had been sleeping on and block my friend out of existence, but alas, he simply wouldn't have it.
"Rei Kon, I insist you get up this INSTANT!" I heard him say irritably.
His words, or rather those PARTICULAR words coming from the mouth of Max caused me to want to laugh. It seemed so very atypical for one so light- hearted as he. I suppose it was the sudden curiosity having to do with the question of if his facial expression might mirror his tone that evoked the opening of my eyes. I was pleased to find that, indeed, his irritability at my stubborn indolence had managed to leak onto his face. This "leakage" bared symptoms of slightly puffed out cheeks and a deliciously adorable scowl.
I could only grin. Perhaps this awakening was not so terrible.
"Good morning, Max," I said, my voice caked thickly with grogginess.
My speech alerted him to the fact that I was finally awake, and that uncharacteristic expression became more and more ambiguous until, finally, it was nonexistent, and the Max that I knew and loved had returned.
"Finally! I was beginning to think I'd have to use drastic measures," he said with a smile.
I chose not to question him about what exactly those drastic measures were. I had had my fair share of pranks ala Max, and I wasn't about to tread on such unstable territory. I simply settled for passing him a knowing smirk as I made a valiant effort to sit up. After doing so, I took a moment to take in my surroundings, and I sighed with realization of such recognition.
"Sam let you crash at his place last night. I guess you guys hit the liquor a little hard, because I can guarantee he was wishing he could stay tucked away in bed. When I walked in this morning, he wasn't exactly looking chipper," Max offered.
I recalled the previous night's events, which acted as the beginning of a throbbing headache. Why did drinking have to have so many horrible after effects? It hardly seemed fair.
"Of course, I can hardly blame you for doing it. Actually, that's what I came here for. You and I need to talk."
I put a hand to my aching head and looked up at him sideways, squinting at his . . . brightness.
". . . What time is it?" I mumbled.
Max rolled his eyes. "Not exactly a choice response," he said.
I just continued to look at him.
"It's around 10:30 I guess . . . which is why we have to get you pulled together."
It occurred me then. "But don't you have class today . . . or something, ANYTHING else you can do besides be here right now?" I asked. I guess it was a little mean, but I was only joking . . . sort of.
Ah, but my Maxie. He took the comment in strive and threw a bright wink in my direction.
"I cut class today," he announced, his voice holding a strange sense of victory or . . . something.
I was surprised, however, because Max had begun caring so much about school after his parents passed away. It seemed like it was everything to him. He was very dutiful in that way, and often times I wished I'd had the same determination and diction that he had.
My surprise must have shown, because Max put on a playfully resentful look and stated in a none too dangerous tone, "And it was all for you, so you'd BETTER appreciate it!"
I just shook my head, regretted the action, and groaned.
"C'mon, Rei, up an' at 'em!" Max chirped.
I groaned again and let myself fall back into a laying position, glaring up at him when he was in my sights.
The blonde gave me a half smile. "Hm, well, maybe I'll just get you some coffee."
I mumbled something totally incoherent as he retreated from the room. It was all my stupid life, and that stupid dulling alcohol's fault that my stupid head was hurting so damn stupidly much! That morning wasn't as depressing as it was . . . well stupid.
Sometime during the period where I was feeling sorry for myself, Max wandered back in with a steaming mug of coffee. He helped me sit up, and I drank the rejuvenating liquid. It didn't make everything go away, but it helped. Eventually, I was able to stand up with Max's help.
We turned everything off in Sam's apartment, locked up, and left for MY apartment. When we passed by the lobby, Sam barely gave us a second glance. He merely smiled tiredly at me, and I wondered if maybe I could get the new guy to take his place. Poor Sam.
Max and I climbed aboard the elevator, and it was a rather uncomfortable trip up, for people began boarding the contraption. I could FEEL their anxiety and their eyes upon me, judging me, and waiting for me to leave so that they could have a minute alone to discuss my existence. The entire time, I kept my eyes cast downward at the floor. It was just a little something I'd learned. I never wanted them to see my expression, for I feared it might give something away; something that they would probably misinterpret.
When the elevator hit my floor, and the doors slid open, Max grabbed my wrist and stepped out hurriedly, dragging me behind him. We got half way down the hall before he released his grip on me, and I was able to fall in step with him.
"Stupid S.O.B.'s," Max muttered.
I stared at him. "What are you talking about?" I asked.
Max's blue eyes fell heavily upon me as we stopped in front of my door, which I simply turned the knob of and pushed open.
"Those people in the elevator. Didn't you see the way they kept looking at you? It was like they expected you to jump them or something," he said somewhat angrily.
I shrugged as I walked inside, Max in tow, and closed the door.
"What can you expect, Maxie? I shoved a guy out the window," I replied.
For some reason, that had a funny ring to it, causing me to have to conceal a demented smile.
"It was in self defense! That guy was going to . . ." Max began but trailed off.
I turned around to face him, only to find a distraught expression on his kindly features. He was staring at me, blue eyes wider and a little fogged over.
". . . Max?" I asked timidly.
"Rei," he said softly, "he could have killed you."
The way he said it made it seem as though it was the first time that that realization had truly dawned on him.
I chewed on my lip for a minute, trying to come up with something to respond with. However, Max beat me to it when he took a few steps closer to me so that were mere inches from one another. Suddenly, he enveloped me in a tight hug. I was sort of surprised, but I hugged him back. I realized, at that point, that I had been getting a lot of hugs lately. It was a strange little after thought, and it seemed a little inappropriate since we were sharing such a heart felt moment.
Max pulled away from me and seemed to examine me for a while. Then, a familiar smile spread on to his face.
"At least you're looking better," He said.
I rolled my eyes. "Thanks," I replied sarcastically.
The blonde shrugged. "C'mon, jump in the shower or whatever, get cleaned up and out of those day old clothes. You and I need to talk."
I shrugged, not really in the mood for the talking I was certain Max had in mind. However, there was a determined look in his eyes that could not be ignored. I wouldn't get out of 'talking' with him, and if I didn't do as he asked then I had the distinct impression he would PUT me in the shower, which I felt would have breached the borders of friendship, if you get my drift. So, reluctantly, I trudged to the bathroom so that I could get cleaned up and be all 'pretty' again. Right.
My shower was uneventful. I guess most showers are though. Of course, the way my life had been playing out, I wouldn't have been surprised if that line of evil villains who I knew always line up out side my door busted into the bathroom, took embarrassing pictures of me, and hung them up on the elevator doors. Ah, yes, death by mortification. Those evil folk were getting crafty.
By the time I was finished with my shower, the bathroom was a sauna. I had to swipe my hand around in circles on the mirror to see a clear reflection. I noticed that the bruises on my skin, my face anyway, were clearing up. They were barely visible in most lighting, though fairly recognizable in natural light. Oh well, I didn't really care that much. As previously mentioned, I wasn't exactly feeling super about my self-image.
I exited the bathroom, the steam billowing out behind me like curtains trapped in the wind. I could hear Max in the living room with the television on. It sounded like he was watching some sort of documentary. He had a thing for the discovery channel.
I shrugged. I had intended to go to my dresser and pull out some choice clothing, but my eyes caught the sight of a familiar outfit lying out on my bed. I couldn't help but smile as I fingered the clothing. Max had picked them out, no doubt. It was an ensemble that I didn't usually wear a lot, but he had always told me how much he liked it. In truth, it was a little something Mariah had picked up for me one day on a girlie whim. Max said it was one of the few really good things I'd gotten out of the relationship, which I had thought was funny.
I slid on the khaki cargos and the faded army green t-shirt. A yawn escaped me as I pulled on my shoes and looked at myself in the mirror. The t-shirt revealed some of the darker bruises on my arms, but I'd probably throw on a jacket to cover those. My hair was still very damp. It looked like a huge mass of black fur or something, reminding me of a dog after its bath. It was a thought that made me frown. Sometimes, I wondered why I even bothered to keep it long. It was such a hassle, but at the same time I had a sort of attachment to it. I sighed as I proceeded to run my comb through it, which only got me so far, and then I took my brush to the wet mass. That got me the rest of the way through it. After a while, I began to recognize it as my hair, for it had taken on its usual straight, sleek look. I dug around in my dresser drawer for my wrap. I fished the thing out, trapped my hair it in, and took another look in the mirror. At least I was shaking the canine look.
"Rei! Aren't you done yet," came Max's sudden shout.
I sighed again. "Yeah, I'm coming."
I grabbed my jacket and headed out of the room. As I had thought, there was Max watching a program on sea turtles. He looked up when he saw me and smiled excitedly.
"I lo--"
"Love this outfit, I know," I interrupted with a roll of my eyes.
Max's grin was still present despite my obvious dryness.
"So, do you feel any better?" He asked.
I shrugged. "Still a little nauseous, but better," I replied.
"Good, 'cause we're leaving now," he said, flipping the TV off and jumping up from the couch.
I groaned as he grabbed my wrist and pulled me toward the door. He opened it, paused, looked at me pointedly, and locked the door before pulling me out and closing it.
"Where are we going?" I asked as we walked down the hall.
"I was thinking that you could use some fresh air. We're going to grab something from that café you like so much, and then we're headed to the park. It's a beautiful day outside."
"Okay," I replied, seeing as how I had no choice in the matter.
I thought we would take the elevator, but Max surprised me and led me to the stairs instead. Apparently, he was still angry with the people in my building. It didn't bother me though. At least I wouldn't have to feel uncomfortable.
We made it to the lobby, and I was both relieved and a little surprised to see that new guy standing there in Sam's place. Max and I must have been mirroring our curiosity on our faces, because he smiled at us a little, tipped his hat, and pushed the doors open.
"Couldn't let an old man work himself to death, could I?" He asked.
I smiled genuinely at him, so did Max, before we exited the open doors.
Max had been right. The day WAS a beautiful one. The sky, though constricted by tall buildings, was clear and blue, and the sun was bright and warm. It lifted my spirits a little.
The café wasn't terribly far from the building, so we began our little walk. I shoved my hands into my baggy pockets, and lowered my head, eyes on the sidewalk. I could feel it coming.
"Rei," Max started.
I winced. And there it was.
"Yes?" I asked reluctantly, raising my head and turning it so that I could look at him. His features were somewhat melancholy.
"I'm sorry for what happened. I'm sorry it had to happen to them, and I'm sorry everything is . . . well, not so good at the present moment."
I shrugged. "I'm not exactly happy with life right now either, Max. I just . . . I don't get why all of this is happening, you know? It doesn't make sense. Why me?" I confessed, then thought twice and added, "Why ANYONE?"
Max proffered a sad half smile. "I know, bad things . . . they aren't fair," He said.
My heart clenched in my chest a little as I saw his eyes become glazed over, and he looked away.
All around us the traffic moved, and there were so many voices, so many sounds. It felt like he and I were the only ones who knew what it felt like to lose something precious. It felt as though we were the only ones to know pain, but I knew that wasn't true. The world was an ocean of tears, of memories and regrets.
"Max," I said softly.
Abruptly, he grabbed hold of my bent arm, his grip tight. I looked at him, shocked. His eyes weren't glazed over any more, they were clear, but not bright like I was used to. They were darker and sort of fierce looking.
"I want this to end, Rei. I want it to be over. I don't want you in danger anymore. I don't want to lose any more people who are close to me . . . I don't want to lose anymore members of my family." He spoke the words strongly, yet quietly as though he didn't want any one else in the world to hear him.
I guess I was . . . touched? It hurt me to see him so concerned, and I remembered the weeks and months after his parents had died. I didn't ever want to see him that way again.
"I'm not going anywhere, Maxie," I reassured him in my gentlest tone.
He let go of my arm then. "You can't promise that," He said. "Especially not now."
"What do you mean? He's dead . . . I sort of saw to that. What ELSE could possibly happen?" I asked, frustration laced into my tone. I really didn't want to talk about it.
"Come one, Rei. Kevin and Gary are dead! They were your friends, your TEAMMATES. Don't you think it's a little strange that they turned up so long after they actually arrived here?"
"Coincidence." I stated.
Max set me with a sharp look. "Not likely," Her replied.
I think we were both surprised when we realized that we had bypassed the café. We ended up and had to back track.
It was a quaint little place made of tanned bricks and windows with flowerbeds right on the sill. There were wrought iron tables with violet and butter yellow umbrellas out side, and round, tables of cherry inside. The place had off white tile flooring and a décor that screamed country time.
We decided to put our conversation on hold as we entered the café and walked up to the counter. Max ordered a latte where as I was happy with my cappuccino. A cute little thing with big green eyes and bouncy brown hair that was held up in a high ponytail served us. She wore the uniform that consisted of black pants and a t-shirt that had the café's name on it. Her smile was bright and cheery, and her name was Bonnie.
Some people are just MEANT to work in coffee shops, I guess.
We took our things to go and left, park bound. We walked in silence for a little while, just observing everything and sipping at out respective beverages. The park came into view minutes later, recognizable by the tall trees, and shaded areas, the blossoming gardens, and the light sound of laughter that went along with children. There were parents sitting on benches, ever vigilant of their young ones, and people walking their dogs. It was practically out of a storybook.
We entered, blending in easily with the crowds. After all, two college friends taking a leisurely stroll in the park, what could be more normal? No one would have been able to guess that one of us had recently pushed a guy out of a window. Hm, imagine that.
"Look, all I'm saying is that I DON'T think that this all over. I'm afraid something more is going on here," Max said.
I shrugged. "Like what? I'll admit, it's weird with what happened to Kevin and Gary, but this IS a big city, and they hadn't been here in a while. Crime isn't exactly nonexistent here."
Max shook his head slightly frustrated with the nonchalant attitude I was taking. The truth was that I didn't WANT anything else to be going on. I wanted my old life back. I wanted it the way it used to be when I got up to go to class, when my biggest concerns were deadlines and what I was going to do on the weekends. I wanted to go back to the days when I could bring someone home for a quick one-night stand, and go on with my life in the morning. I couldn't even do THAT anymore because of . . . of Kai, and well . . . everything that went along with him. Bad Rei, you know better than to drool!
No, I didn't want Kevin and Gary dead. What kind of a friend would I be if I did, but why couldn't they just be dead like normal people?
"Rei, don't you get it?" Max asked suddenly, interrupting my thoughts. "The WAY in which they were killed, the place where they were found, it's all somewhat similar to the way that girl was killed. There could be a connection," he said.
I took a deep breath. So what if he had a point? I chose not to say anything. Max didn't seem to care.
"I'm just thinking that maybe . . . maybe you shouldn't be living at your place anymore, or for now, anyway," he said almost timidly.
That statement stopped me in my tracks. He stopped too and turned to face me, as I was him.
"What are you suggesting?" I asked carefully.
"I think that maybe you should move in with one of us for a while, and--"
"No." I said.
I couldn't believe he was asking me to abandon my apartment.
"But Rei--"
"No, Max," I persisted. "I'm not leaving my home because you have some fantastic horror novel playing out in your head," I said.
"Rei, you've got to listen to me on this. Trust me, please! I'm your friend, and I wouldn't be telling you all of this unless I had a good reason. I really think it would be better for you, for all of us, if you moved in, just temporarily, with one of us."
I was ready to repeat my negative answer again, but he held up a hand to silence me.
"There's plenty of room in my apartment. You can stay with me. PLEASE Rei, just for a little while. Just until I feel more comfortable about everything. For my own sanity and peace of mind . . . for me?" He pleaded.
Ping. His words struck my heart, and my guilt. I was stuck looking into those huge, shimmering blue eyes, and his distraught expression. I felt like I was drowning . . . and I couldn't believe what I was going to say.
"O . . .okay, Max," I said in defeat. "I'll come."
I was then glomped to the point where balance was beginning to escape me.
"Thank you so much!" He said, jumping up and down while he hugged me.
I looked around nervously as people started paying attention to us.
"Max," I said quietly. "Max, c'mon, people are sort of staring," I coaxed.
Max released me and grinned at my obvious embarrassment. He looked around at the staring people, and I could see the sly mischievousness creeping into his happy eyes. Oh God, what was he going to do?
"Oh Rei," he shouted. "I'm so glad you're moving in with me!"
I blushed deeply and began sputtering, trying to find something to say.
I don't think I wanted to die until he grabbed me and kissed me full on the lips in front of everyone.
I couldn't believe he'd just done that! I was in shock when he let me go, my deep blush transforming into my actual skin color. Max, in the meantime, was laughing hysterically.
Like I said, death by mortification. Those bastard evil villains hell bent on killing me had gotten to my best friend . . . and my new roomie. Great.
We spent the rest of the day just walking around, and I actually enjoyed myself. I felt guilty though, because two of my best friends were dead, and I was out having a good time. However, I was tired of feeling sad and depressed. I was tired of crying and mourning the lost. There wasn't any thing I could do about it all, except be there for the people that were still left.
I moved into Max's place almost immediately the next day. I didn't take a whole lot from my place, just all of my clothing and accessories, toiletries, my books for school, and some recreational books. There were other items that I simply didn't want to leave behind. Max had me set up in the adjoining bedroom in his apartment.
Sam had been a little saddened that I was leaving, but he told me that he thought Max was right and that it was for the best. A few of the people in my building who never had a problem with me, even after the fact, offered to help me with my things, but I had Max and Tyson there to help, so I politely refused. Other people had smug expressions as I left, while others couldn't have cared less whether or stayed or went.
I tried to get myself back in the swing of things when I was at Max's. I thought of it as a sort of 'clean up my life' vacation from home. I got that damned history report done and handed in. He graded it with me standing right there, and I got a solid A on it, which made me fairly happy. I was on top of my class work again, so I didn't have to think so much about it, and my bruises were pretty much nonexistent.
I spent the evenings with Max when he wasn't studying or doing or homework. We played video games, went out (though I was way more reserved), saw movies, and hung out a lot with Tyson and Kenny. I never saw much of Kai. Big surprise, I guess.
Eventually, the day came where we had to go to Kevin and Gary's wake. We all showed up together in our black, solemn clothing. There weren't a lot of people there, because almost everyone they had been extremely close to was back home in the village, and the elders would never allow half its population to leave. No, it was just us and some other formers bladers from former teams. Of course, Lee and Mariah were there, and we met a few people, friends from their college, who had come to pay their respects. It was a short function, simple, and it almost seemed like it didn't do them justice. However, I don't think they would have wanted anything elaborate, so I suppose it worked out okay.
I cried a little, Mariah cried a lot, Lee shed a few tears, but kept up his strong façade. Once again, guilt wove its way into my emotions as we were leaving, because I felt such relief. The wake had seemed to put an end to that sad chapter of my life. I didn't feel as though I needed to constantly dwell on it.
A few days later, I was feeling rather chipper. Things seemed to be falling into place again. I could feel my lives former familiarities beginning to mend the cracks in my CURRENT life. Of course, things have to happen, don't they?
Max was gone for the day. He'd told me that he had class and then he was going to go do something with Tyson. It was something that made me smile. Max was still pushing Tyson away, but Tyson was unfazed. Though he respected Max's space, he would continue to push little by little, and I was beginning to see Max's defenses crumble. There was no doubt in my mind that Tyson would catch him.
Having the apartment and the day to myself didn't bother me much. I watched the news and other programs on television for the better half of the morning, and then I did some homework. After that I started a book, which was what I was doing when there came a knock at the door. I looked up from the pages of my selection, and stared at the door for a moment. Sighing, I set down the book and padded lazily toward the door. I wondered briefly if I was presentable. All I was wearing was some faded jeans that I'd worn some holes into, a black t-shirt, and my warm socks. I hadn't even bothered to do anything much with my hair that morning. All I'd done was dry it and bound it with a hair tie about midway down the mane.
I yawned as I looked through the peephole, seeing that Kai was on the other side. I shrugged, not thinking much of it. Sure, it was weird that he was paying a visit, but whatever. I opened the door, only to be pushed backwards, though not hard enough to actually fall. Kai shut the door behind him as he entered.
Anger boiled within me at his brash act. It hardly seemed justifiable. However, I didn't get much of a chance to say or do anything, because it was only seconds later that he was kissing me deeply, his fingers fumbling through my hair, swiping out the hair band.
I was surprised, but I kissed him back. I let him lead me to my temporary bedroom, and I let him shove me on to my bed. I allowed him to pull my shirt over my head and throw it across the room, and I also allowed him to strip me of my holey jeans and the boxers underneath them. I acquiesced to my urge to strip him of his garments as well, and I permitted those lips to leave flaming kisses all over my skin.
His hands caressed my body in the most sensual, lustful ways, and I loved every minute of it. That tongue slid its way downward from my swollen lips to my navel and beyond. He took me into his mouth sucking, and he swallowed everything when I came.
I was left weakened and panting on my back, but he wasn't nearly done. It wasn't long before I was on my hands and knees moaning with pain and pleasure as he thrust deep within me.
And it was about THEN when Max just happened to walk in.
As mentioned so many times before, death by mortification.
Author's Note: Hey all! It's been a bit, but have no fear, because I'm takin' this baby all the way to the end. Anyway, this chapter is longer and hopefully more entertaining than the last one. Enjoy! Happy Readings!
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I heard voices. They were far away and fell as mere murmurs upon my subconscious. They acted as a teetering bridge between my slumbering state, and my impending consciousness. How I was beginning to loathe awakening. All it ever seemed to bring was fear, pain, and suffering. Every time I awoke, it seemed as though something else had gone wrong in my life.
I felt, rather than heard, myself groan as the voices became more recognizable and their words more comprehendible. I could make out what the voices were saying, but my brain was still reluctant to arrange them in any way where I would be able to understand them. It was like the words were strangely out of sequence, yet I knew they were not, for I recognized the steady patterns of speech to be correct.
"Rei."
I understood that word. That was me. That was my name. Rei. I was beginning to loathe IT as well, for it felt as though all of the negative things in the world revolved around it . . . around me, lately.
My mouth mumbled something, and my body shifted. I wondered where exactly it was I had fallen asleep THAT time.
"Rei, wake up," said the same voice. "Come ON, Rei, you can't sleep all day."
Oh really? I begged to differ.
However, I was mistaken in my differing, for it turned out I COULDN'T sleep all day, and it was a certain blonde's FAULT. It was the harsh, continuous yanking on my arm that caused me to open my eyes, though I did so begrudgingly. Immediately, I was met with blonde hair and blue eyes.
I hadn't noticed it before that morning, but Max was very . . . bright.
I squinted up at him and proceeded to frown.
"Go away, Max," I said.
I attempted to turn over on whatever it was I had been sleeping on and block my friend out of existence, but alas, he simply wouldn't have it.
"Rei Kon, I insist you get up this INSTANT!" I heard him say irritably.
His words, or rather those PARTICULAR words coming from the mouth of Max caused me to want to laugh. It seemed so very atypical for one so light- hearted as he. I suppose it was the sudden curiosity having to do with the question of if his facial expression might mirror his tone that evoked the opening of my eyes. I was pleased to find that, indeed, his irritability at my stubborn indolence had managed to leak onto his face. This "leakage" bared symptoms of slightly puffed out cheeks and a deliciously adorable scowl.
I could only grin. Perhaps this awakening was not so terrible.
"Good morning, Max," I said, my voice caked thickly with grogginess.
My speech alerted him to the fact that I was finally awake, and that uncharacteristic expression became more and more ambiguous until, finally, it was nonexistent, and the Max that I knew and loved had returned.
"Finally! I was beginning to think I'd have to use drastic measures," he said with a smile.
I chose not to question him about what exactly those drastic measures were. I had had my fair share of pranks ala Max, and I wasn't about to tread on such unstable territory. I simply settled for passing him a knowing smirk as I made a valiant effort to sit up. After doing so, I took a moment to take in my surroundings, and I sighed with realization of such recognition.
"Sam let you crash at his place last night. I guess you guys hit the liquor a little hard, because I can guarantee he was wishing he could stay tucked away in bed. When I walked in this morning, he wasn't exactly looking chipper," Max offered.
I recalled the previous night's events, which acted as the beginning of a throbbing headache. Why did drinking have to have so many horrible after effects? It hardly seemed fair.
"Of course, I can hardly blame you for doing it. Actually, that's what I came here for. You and I need to talk."
I put a hand to my aching head and looked up at him sideways, squinting at his . . . brightness.
". . . What time is it?" I mumbled.
Max rolled his eyes. "Not exactly a choice response," he said.
I just continued to look at him.
"It's around 10:30 I guess . . . which is why we have to get you pulled together."
It occurred me then. "But don't you have class today . . . or something, ANYTHING else you can do besides be here right now?" I asked. I guess it was a little mean, but I was only joking . . . sort of.
Ah, but my Maxie. He took the comment in strive and threw a bright wink in my direction.
"I cut class today," he announced, his voice holding a strange sense of victory or . . . something.
I was surprised, however, because Max had begun caring so much about school after his parents passed away. It seemed like it was everything to him. He was very dutiful in that way, and often times I wished I'd had the same determination and diction that he had.
My surprise must have shown, because Max put on a playfully resentful look and stated in a none too dangerous tone, "And it was all for you, so you'd BETTER appreciate it!"
I just shook my head, regretted the action, and groaned.
"C'mon, Rei, up an' at 'em!" Max chirped.
I groaned again and let myself fall back into a laying position, glaring up at him when he was in my sights.
The blonde gave me a half smile. "Hm, well, maybe I'll just get you some coffee."
I mumbled something totally incoherent as he retreated from the room. It was all my stupid life, and that stupid dulling alcohol's fault that my stupid head was hurting so damn stupidly much! That morning wasn't as depressing as it was . . . well stupid.
Sometime during the period where I was feeling sorry for myself, Max wandered back in with a steaming mug of coffee. He helped me sit up, and I drank the rejuvenating liquid. It didn't make everything go away, but it helped. Eventually, I was able to stand up with Max's help.
We turned everything off in Sam's apartment, locked up, and left for MY apartment. When we passed by the lobby, Sam barely gave us a second glance. He merely smiled tiredly at me, and I wondered if maybe I could get the new guy to take his place. Poor Sam.
Max and I climbed aboard the elevator, and it was a rather uncomfortable trip up, for people began boarding the contraption. I could FEEL their anxiety and their eyes upon me, judging me, and waiting for me to leave so that they could have a minute alone to discuss my existence. The entire time, I kept my eyes cast downward at the floor. It was just a little something I'd learned. I never wanted them to see my expression, for I feared it might give something away; something that they would probably misinterpret.
When the elevator hit my floor, and the doors slid open, Max grabbed my wrist and stepped out hurriedly, dragging me behind him. We got half way down the hall before he released his grip on me, and I was able to fall in step with him.
"Stupid S.O.B.'s," Max muttered.
I stared at him. "What are you talking about?" I asked.
Max's blue eyes fell heavily upon me as we stopped in front of my door, which I simply turned the knob of and pushed open.
"Those people in the elevator. Didn't you see the way they kept looking at you? It was like they expected you to jump them or something," he said somewhat angrily.
I shrugged as I walked inside, Max in tow, and closed the door.
"What can you expect, Maxie? I shoved a guy out the window," I replied.
For some reason, that had a funny ring to it, causing me to have to conceal a demented smile.
"It was in self defense! That guy was going to . . ." Max began but trailed off.
I turned around to face him, only to find a distraught expression on his kindly features. He was staring at me, blue eyes wider and a little fogged over.
". . . Max?" I asked timidly.
"Rei," he said softly, "he could have killed you."
The way he said it made it seem as though it was the first time that that realization had truly dawned on him.
I chewed on my lip for a minute, trying to come up with something to respond with. However, Max beat me to it when he took a few steps closer to me so that were mere inches from one another. Suddenly, he enveloped me in a tight hug. I was sort of surprised, but I hugged him back. I realized, at that point, that I had been getting a lot of hugs lately. It was a strange little after thought, and it seemed a little inappropriate since we were sharing such a heart felt moment.
Max pulled away from me and seemed to examine me for a while. Then, a familiar smile spread on to his face.
"At least you're looking better," He said.
I rolled my eyes. "Thanks," I replied sarcastically.
The blonde shrugged. "C'mon, jump in the shower or whatever, get cleaned up and out of those day old clothes. You and I need to talk."
I shrugged, not really in the mood for the talking I was certain Max had in mind. However, there was a determined look in his eyes that could not be ignored. I wouldn't get out of 'talking' with him, and if I didn't do as he asked then I had the distinct impression he would PUT me in the shower, which I felt would have breached the borders of friendship, if you get my drift. So, reluctantly, I trudged to the bathroom so that I could get cleaned up and be all 'pretty' again. Right.
My shower was uneventful. I guess most showers are though. Of course, the way my life had been playing out, I wouldn't have been surprised if that line of evil villains who I knew always line up out side my door busted into the bathroom, took embarrassing pictures of me, and hung them up on the elevator doors. Ah, yes, death by mortification. Those evil folk were getting crafty.
By the time I was finished with my shower, the bathroom was a sauna. I had to swipe my hand around in circles on the mirror to see a clear reflection. I noticed that the bruises on my skin, my face anyway, were clearing up. They were barely visible in most lighting, though fairly recognizable in natural light. Oh well, I didn't really care that much. As previously mentioned, I wasn't exactly feeling super about my self-image.
I exited the bathroom, the steam billowing out behind me like curtains trapped in the wind. I could hear Max in the living room with the television on. It sounded like he was watching some sort of documentary. He had a thing for the discovery channel.
I shrugged. I had intended to go to my dresser and pull out some choice clothing, but my eyes caught the sight of a familiar outfit lying out on my bed. I couldn't help but smile as I fingered the clothing. Max had picked them out, no doubt. It was an ensemble that I didn't usually wear a lot, but he had always told me how much he liked it. In truth, it was a little something Mariah had picked up for me one day on a girlie whim. Max said it was one of the few really good things I'd gotten out of the relationship, which I had thought was funny.
I slid on the khaki cargos and the faded army green t-shirt. A yawn escaped me as I pulled on my shoes and looked at myself in the mirror. The t-shirt revealed some of the darker bruises on my arms, but I'd probably throw on a jacket to cover those. My hair was still very damp. It looked like a huge mass of black fur or something, reminding me of a dog after its bath. It was a thought that made me frown. Sometimes, I wondered why I even bothered to keep it long. It was such a hassle, but at the same time I had a sort of attachment to it. I sighed as I proceeded to run my comb through it, which only got me so far, and then I took my brush to the wet mass. That got me the rest of the way through it. After a while, I began to recognize it as my hair, for it had taken on its usual straight, sleek look. I dug around in my dresser drawer for my wrap. I fished the thing out, trapped my hair it in, and took another look in the mirror. At least I was shaking the canine look.
"Rei! Aren't you done yet," came Max's sudden shout.
I sighed again. "Yeah, I'm coming."
I grabbed my jacket and headed out of the room. As I had thought, there was Max watching a program on sea turtles. He looked up when he saw me and smiled excitedly.
"I lo--"
"Love this outfit, I know," I interrupted with a roll of my eyes.
Max's grin was still present despite my obvious dryness.
"So, do you feel any better?" He asked.
I shrugged. "Still a little nauseous, but better," I replied.
"Good, 'cause we're leaving now," he said, flipping the TV off and jumping up from the couch.
I groaned as he grabbed my wrist and pulled me toward the door. He opened it, paused, looked at me pointedly, and locked the door before pulling me out and closing it.
"Where are we going?" I asked as we walked down the hall.
"I was thinking that you could use some fresh air. We're going to grab something from that café you like so much, and then we're headed to the park. It's a beautiful day outside."
"Okay," I replied, seeing as how I had no choice in the matter.
I thought we would take the elevator, but Max surprised me and led me to the stairs instead. Apparently, he was still angry with the people in my building. It didn't bother me though. At least I wouldn't have to feel uncomfortable.
We made it to the lobby, and I was both relieved and a little surprised to see that new guy standing there in Sam's place. Max and I must have been mirroring our curiosity on our faces, because he smiled at us a little, tipped his hat, and pushed the doors open.
"Couldn't let an old man work himself to death, could I?" He asked.
I smiled genuinely at him, so did Max, before we exited the open doors.
Max had been right. The day WAS a beautiful one. The sky, though constricted by tall buildings, was clear and blue, and the sun was bright and warm. It lifted my spirits a little.
The café wasn't terribly far from the building, so we began our little walk. I shoved my hands into my baggy pockets, and lowered my head, eyes on the sidewalk. I could feel it coming.
"Rei," Max started.
I winced. And there it was.
"Yes?" I asked reluctantly, raising my head and turning it so that I could look at him. His features were somewhat melancholy.
"I'm sorry for what happened. I'm sorry it had to happen to them, and I'm sorry everything is . . . well, not so good at the present moment."
I shrugged. "I'm not exactly happy with life right now either, Max. I just . . . I don't get why all of this is happening, you know? It doesn't make sense. Why me?" I confessed, then thought twice and added, "Why ANYONE?"
Max proffered a sad half smile. "I know, bad things . . . they aren't fair," He said.
My heart clenched in my chest a little as I saw his eyes become glazed over, and he looked away.
All around us the traffic moved, and there were so many voices, so many sounds. It felt like he and I were the only ones who knew what it felt like to lose something precious. It felt as though we were the only ones to know pain, but I knew that wasn't true. The world was an ocean of tears, of memories and regrets.
"Max," I said softly.
Abruptly, he grabbed hold of my bent arm, his grip tight. I looked at him, shocked. His eyes weren't glazed over any more, they were clear, but not bright like I was used to. They were darker and sort of fierce looking.
"I want this to end, Rei. I want it to be over. I don't want you in danger anymore. I don't want to lose any more people who are close to me . . . I don't want to lose anymore members of my family." He spoke the words strongly, yet quietly as though he didn't want any one else in the world to hear him.
I guess I was . . . touched? It hurt me to see him so concerned, and I remembered the weeks and months after his parents had died. I didn't ever want to see him that way again.
"I'm not going anywhere, Maxie," I reassured him in my gentlest tone.
He let go of my arm then. "You can't promise that," He said. "Especially not now."
"What do you mean? He's dead . . . I sort of saw to that. What ELSE could possibly happen?" I asked, frustration laced into my tone. I really didn't want to talk about it.
"Come one, Rei. Kevin and Gary are dead! They were your friends, your TEAMMATES. Don't you think it's a little strange that they turned up so long after they actually arrived here?"
"Coincidence." I stated.
Max set me with a sharp look. "Not likely," Her replied.
I think we were both surprised when we realized that we had bypassed the café. We ended up and had to back track.
It was a quaint little place made of tanned bricks and windows with flowerbeds right on the sill. There were wrought iron tables with violet and butter yellow umbrellas out side, and round, tables of cherry inside. The place had off white tile flooring and a décor that screamed country time.
We decided to put our conversation on hold as we entered the café and walked up to the counter. Max ordered a latte where as I was happy with my cappuccino. A cute little thing with big green eyes and bouncy brown hair that was held up in a high ponytail served us. She wore the uniform that consisted of black pants and a t-shirt that had the café's name on it. Her smile was bright and cheery, and her name was Bonnie.
Some people are just MEANT to work in coffee shops, I guess.
We took our things to go and left, park bound. We walked in silence for a little while, just observing everything and sipping at out respective beverages. The park came into view minutes later, recognizable by the tall trees, and shaded areas, the blossoming gardens, and the light sound of laughter that went along with children. There were parents sitting on benches, ever vigilant of their young ones, and people walking their dogs. It was practically out of a storybook.
We entered, blending in easily with the crowds. After all, two college friends taking a leisurely stroll in the park, what could be more normal? No one would have been able to guess that one of us had recently pushed a guy out of a window. Hm, imagine that.
"Look, all I'm saying is that I DON'T think that this all over. I'm afraid something more is going on here," Max said.
I shrugged. "Like what? I'll admit, it's weird with what happened to Kevin and Gary, but this IS a big city, and they hadn't been here in a while. Crime isn't exactly nonexistent here."
Max shook his head slightly frustrated with the nonchalant attitude I was taking. The truth was that I didn't WANT anything else to be going on. I wanted my old life back. I wanted it the way it used to be when I got up to go to class, when my biggest concerns were deadlines and what I was going to do on the weekends. I wanted to go back to the days when I could bring someone home for a quick one-night stand, and go on with my life in the morning. I couldn't even do THAT anymore because of . . . of Kai, and well . . . everything that went along with him. Bad Rei, you know better than to drool!
No, I didn't want Kevin and Gary dead. What kind of a friend would I be if I did, but why couldn't they just be dead like normal people?
"Rei, don't you get it?" Max asked suddenly, interrupting my thoughts. "The WAY in which they were killed, the place where they were found, it's all somewhat similar to the way that girl was killed. There could be a connection," he said.
I took a deep breath. So what if he had a point? I chose not to say anything. Max didn't seem to care.
"I'm just thinking that maybe . . . maybe you shouldn't be living at your place anymore, or for now, anyway," he said almost timidly.
That statement stopped me in my tracks. He stopped too and turned to face me, as I was him.
"What are you suggesting?" I asked carefully.
"I think that maybe you should move in with one of us for a while, and--"
"No." I said.
I couldn't believe he was asking me to abandon my apartment.
"But Rei--"
"No, Max," I persisted. "I'm not leaving my home because you have some fantastic horror novel playing out in your head," I said.
"Rei, you've got to listen to me on this. Trust me, please! I'm your friend, and I wouldn't be telling you all of this unless I had a good reason. I really think it would be better for you, for all of us, if you moved in, just temporarily, with one of us."
I was ready to repeat my negative answer again, but he held up a hand to silence me.
"There's plenty of room in my apartment. You can stay with me. PLEASE Rei, just for a little while. Just until I feel more comfortable about everything. For my own sanity and peace of mind . . . for me?" He pleaded.
Ping. His words struck my heart, and my guilt. I was stuck looking into those huge, shimmering blue eyes, and his distraught expression. I felt like I was drowning . . . and I couldn't believe what I was going to say.
"O . . .okay, Max," I said in defeat. "I'll come."
I was then glomped to the point where balance was beginning to escape me.
"Thank you so much!" He said, jumping up and down while he hugged me.
I looked around nervously as people started paying attention to us.
"Max," I said quietly. "Max, c'mon, people are sort of staring," I coaxed.
Max released me and grinned at my obvious embarrassment. He looked around at the staring people, and I could see the sly mischievousness creeping into his happy eyes. Oh God, what was he going to do?
"Oh Rei," he shouted. "I'm so glad you're moving in with me!"
I blushed deeply and began sputtering, trying to find something to say.
I don't think I wanted to die until he grabbed me and kissed me full on the lips in front of everyone.
I couldn't believe he'd just done that! I was in shock when he let me go, my deep blush transforming into my actual skin color. Max, in the meantime, was laughing hysterically.
Like I said, death by mortification. Those bastard evil villains hell bent on killing me had gotten to my best friend . . . and my new roomie. Great.
We spent the rest of the day just walking around, and I actually enjoyed myself. I felt guilty though, because two of my best friends were dead, and I was out having a good time. However, I was tired of feeling sad and depressed. I was tired of crying and mourning the lost. There wasn't any thing I could do about it all, except be there for the people that were still left.
I moved into Max's place almost immediately the next day. I didn't take a whole lot from my place, just all of my clothing and accessories, toiletries, my books for school, and some recreational books. There were other items that I simply didn't want to leave behind. Max had me set up in the adjoining bedroom in his apartment.
Sam had been a little saddened that I was leaving, but he told me that he thought Max was right and that it was for the best. A few of the people in my building who never had a problem with me, even after the fact, offered to help me with my things, but I had Max and Tyson there to help, so I politely refused. Other people had smug expressions as I left, while others couldn't have cared less whether or stayed or went.
I tried to get myself back in the swing of things when I was at Max's. I thought of it as a sort of 'clean up my life' vacation from home. I got that damned history report done and handed in. He graded it with me standing right there, and I got a solid A on it, which made me fairly happy. I was on top of my class work again, so I didn't have to think so much about it, and my bruises were pretty much nonexistent.
I spent the evenings with Max when he wasn't studying or doing or homework. We played video games, went out (though I was way more reserved), saw movies, and hung out a lot with Tyson and Kenny. I never saw much of Kai. Big surprise, I guess.
Eventually, the day came where we had to go to Kevin and Gary's wake. We all showed up together in our black, solemn clothing. There weren't a lot of people there, because almost everyone they had been extremely close to was back home in the village, and the elders would never allow half its population to leave. No, it was just us and some other formers bladers from former teams. Of course, Lee and Mariah were there, and we met a few people, friends from their college, who had come to pay their respects. It was a short function, simple, and it almost seemed like it didn't do them justice. However, I don't think they would have wanted anything elaborate, so I suppose it worked out okay.
I cried a little, Mariah cried a lot, Lee shed a few tears, but kept up his strong façade. Once again, guilt wove its way into my emotions as we were leaving, because I felt such relief. The wake had seemed to put an end to that sad chapter of my life. I didn't feel as though I needed to constantly dwell on it.
A few days later, I was feeling rather chipper. Things seemed to be falling into place again. I could feel my lives former familiarities beginning to mend the cracks in my CURRENT life. Of course, things have to happen, don't they?
Max was gone for the day. He'd told me that he had class and then he was going to go do something with Tyson. It was something that made me smile. Max was still pushing Tyson away, but Tyson was unfazed. Though he respected Max's space, he would continue to push little by little, and I was beginning to see Max's defenses crumble. There was no doubt in my mind that Tyson would catch him.
Having the apartment and the day to myself didn't bother me much. I watched the news and other programs on television for the better half of the morning, and then I did some homework. After that I started a book, which was what I was doing when there came a knock at the door. I looked up from the pages of my selection, and stared at the door for a moment. Sighing, I set down the book and padded lazily toward the door. I wondered briefly if I was presentable. All I was wearing was some faded jeans that I'd worn some holes into, a black t-shirt, and my warm socks. I hadn't even bothered to do anything much with my hair that morning. All I'd done was dry it and bound it with a hair tie about midway down the mane.
I yawned as I looked through the peephole, seeing that Kai was on the other side. I shrugged, not thinking much of it. Sure, it was weird that he was paying a visit, but whatever. I opened the door, only to be pushed backwards, though not hard enough to actually fall. Kai shut the door behind him as he entered.
Anger boiled within me at his brash act. It hardly seemed justifiable. However, I didn't get much of a chance to say or do anything, because it was only seconds later that he was kissing me deeply, his fingers fumbling through my hair, swiping out the hair band.
I was surprised, but I kissed him back. I let him lead me to my temporary bedroom, and I let him shove me on to my bed. I allowed him to pull my shirt over my head and throw it across the room, and I also allowed him to strip me of my holey jeans and the boxers underneath them. I acquiesced to my urge to strip him of his garments as well, and I permitted those lips to leave flaming kisses all over my skin.
His hands caressed my body in the most sensual, lustful ways, and I loved every minute of it. That tongue slid its way downward from my swollen lips to my navel and beyond. He took me into his mouth sucking, and he swallowed everything when I came.
I was left weakened and panting on my back, but he wasn't nearly done. It wasn't long before I was on my hands and knees moaning with pain and pleasure as he thrust deep within me.
And it was about THEN when Max just happened to walk in.
As mentioned so many times before, death by mortification.