Even's Point of View
When I went back to Jessica's room, the door was closed, and I heard Jessica talking to Ienzo. I pressed my ear against the door and strained to listen to what they were talking about. "It's okay. You don't have to apologize. What about you? What are your parents like?" Ienzo asked. My interest in their conversation increased exponentially.
"Well... They're distant. I didn't spend much time with them because they were always busy. I'm not even sure if they miss me. They sent me away when I was three," Jessica sighed.
There was a moment of silence between them. I was about to knock when Ienzo continued the conversation. "Well, was there anyone else who took care of you? I mean, you had to have someone that was there for you. You couldn't have just been on your own," Ienzo questioned.
"Well, there was someone. He's gone now. He died not that long ago. I really miss him right now." Jessica sounded like she was going to cry.
"Oh. I'm sorry. Did you have anyone else who you were close to?" Ienzo wondered.
"Well, there were some people who were like older siblings. There was Ventus. He was fast and always ready to cheer up a friend. Right now, he's in a sort of coma. Only this is one that he might not wake up from. Then there's Aqua. She was definitely the one I was closest to. She was the smart and tactful one. She's also the kind of person that always follows the rules. Right now, she's missing, and I don't know if I'll ever see her again. Then there's Terra. He's strong and brave. He'll do anything to save his friends, even if it means not following the rules. He's a big troublemaker. One time, he dumped a bucket of water over my head to wake me up. I guess I still didn't wake up because I only found out after he told me. He's missing right now, but I feel like a part of him is still with me. What about you? Who raised you after your parents died?"
"Uh, well, Master Ansem and the other apprentices raised me, but the one who has done the most for me is really Even. He's the closest thing I have to a parent now. He's a good dad. I hope you know that Even!" Ienzo shouted through the door. I was certain I had been careful not to alert them of my presence, but then, Ienzo had an exceptional skill of somehow detecting those surrounding him how he knew I was there. As foolish as it sounded, he claimed that he could smell people. I opened the door and entered Jessica's room. "Is Jess in trouble?" Ienzo asked me. He looked more nervous than Jessica.
"No. She's not in trouble, Ienzo. I'm just going to talk to her. I would like to speak with Jessica in private if you don't mind," I assured him.
"Okay. I'll see you tomorrow Jess," Ienzo said.
"Jessica, I talked with Ansem. You are now allowed to go to other worlds without explanation as long as you let me, Ansem, or one of the other apprentices that are not Ienzo," I explained.
Jessica's face lit up. "Really?! Thank you!" She exclaimed.
"However, if there is anything you can tell us, it would be appreciated. We are worried about you," I added.
"I'm sorry. I can't," Jessica apologized.
"I understand, child. Do what you must do." I wanted to tell her so much more, but I held my tongue. "I have the day off tomorrow. Perhaps you would like to join Ienzo and me in town."
"I would love to," Jessica agreed.
"Excellent. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have work to do," I mentioned.
"Of course. Thank you, Mr. Even," Jessica smiled.
"You're welcome, child," I replied.