Disclaimer: I do not own Kingdom Hearts or any of the other Anime/Disney characters.

Chapter 12

Choices

-If you love something let it go. If it comes back to you, it's yours forever. If it doesn't, it was never meant to be.-

Xemnas watched Riku, 'What's the matter, Little Cousin?'

'Nothing,' he replied, but kept looking at the clock. It had been two days since Hina's outburst and two days since his petite friend had stopped coming to visit. He wanted to ask if something was wrong, but he didn't know whom to turn to.

'Really, because you look like your waiting for something or someone. Is there a nurse that comes at this time?' He asked wondering if subconsciously Riku was aware of Amaranth, she was very important to him after all, so it wouldn't make sense if her memory was completely erased.

'No,' he answered and turned to his cousin with a frown. He had noticed that instead of the girl coming in, Xemnas had started to visit more. 'What are you doing here anyways, don't you have work?'

'That's no way to treat a guest,' Xemnas chided him. 'But if you must now, I have business here and another very important person to visit. I just figured since I am already here, I might as well visit you as well.'

Riku felt his cousin's comment to be an annoyance, 'Thanks, I am happy to know that you care.'

'Right,' Xemnas watched him look at the clock again. 'You know, I saw Amaranth today,' it was true, he had just come from her room, but he wanted to see Riku's reaction to her.

He froze and waited to hear what Xemnas had to say, 'She looked as lovely as ever and I kept wondering to myself if I should ask her out.'

Riku felt a cold dread wash over him, as well as anger flare, but he didn't know why. 'I don't think she'd be interested in you, you're too old and already have a kid.'

'You never know, she might be into older men and she and Xion get along well,' he watched his cousin and noted that subconsciously he was still possessive of her. Maybe jealousy would be the trigger to his memories, because whether his memories returned or not he couldn't afford to let her go. It would be a big mistake and given the circumstances, it just wasn't an option without him knowing the truth and having a choose in the matter.

'Please,' Riku bitterly laughed at his cousin, but wondered if the girl would actually pick him. No, the idea of them together was absurd.

'Harsh,' he pretended to be hurt. 'But you know, you're acting like you already know her?'

'I should know her,' he answered, but his face turned puzzled, 'but I don't remember her. Gut feeling tells me that she wouldn't pick you, though.'

'Well, we'll never know until I ask,' he pretended to brush his cousin's comment off.

'You said you saw her, where?' Riku decided to ask.

Xemnas looked his cousin over, but recalled Amaranth request not to tell him anything. 'Here and there, you know I am always busy with work and I happen to run across her from time to time,' he vaguely answered.

'So she's busy herself,' it would answer the question as to why she hadn't come to see him.

'You could say, something like that.'

It wasn't the answer he was looking for, Riku was beginning to realize that the young woman was an enigma to him. He couldn't pinpoint why he was a riddle of emotions when he was near her, away from her or just talking and thinking about her. To him it seemed like she was more than a friend, but she never implied anything. She was a conundrum that seemed to lead him around or preoccupy his thoughts. 'Unless, I unintentionally did something and that is why she's not visiting. I mean, Hina, tried to come in here and beat me up, as well as insult me and blame me for something I have no idea of doing.'

'It's just the way she shows affection,' Xemnas laughed at the stupidity of the suggestion. If Nina hadn't come in and hauled her away, she probably would have beaten up Riku. He had to give it to the woman, she sure was passionate about protecting her friend. Now, her protective nature went into overdrive. He wondered which person he should worry about more, Riku or Amaranth. Riku, one false move from him and Hina would pounce.

'What are you thinking, you have a silly grin on your face,' Riku's face soured at his own imagination.

'Nothing, nothing,' he suddenly got up. 'Well, Little Cousin, it was nice to see you. I'll come and visit soon.'

'You're leaving,' he may not enjoy his cousin's choice in topic or secrets, but company was company.

'Of course, I have work to attend too and it looks like you're waiting for someone,' he straightened his suit coat and buttoned the two buttons that held it closed.

'I am not waiting for anyone,' he grumbled in annoyance.

'If that's so, maybe I should make a call for a late lunch,' he hinted at calling Amaranth, knowing will that this was usually the time that she arrived for her visits. That was why he scheduled his visits to his cousin around the same time.

Riku clenched his jaw shut, he wasn't going to get lured in by his cousin. 'Go to work instead, you have a daughter to support,' Riku reminded him.

'Right, right, I should ask Amaranth over for dinner. Xion will be pleased to see her, thanks for the advice,' he waved and left Riku before he could say another word. Jealousy could work, he would go with that for now in helping Riku regain his memories.

8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8

Sitting by the large window and looking out into the lonely courtyard, Amaranth sighed at the loneliness that it mirrored in her heart. She reached out and touched the cool glass, figuring that it was too cold outside for people to be out and about. Two days ago she had fainted, been reprimanded and told the most wonderful news of her life as well as a terrifying one. She sighed again and dropped her hand from the glass, sliding it down the back of the chair and onto her lap. Everyone had been worried about her collapse, but it was bound to happen she figured. Since the accident her diet had been poor, so she was malnourished, sleep hadn't come to her because of the worry and distress of would he or would he not wake up. Then there was her emotional state of mind, the blow of him not being able to remember her and just her was heartbreaking, so it spiraled all of her emotions.

Hina had been furious about her collapse, she told her that until she was better she would stay by her side and not let anyone that could damage her health near her. Nina had slapped her across the head, knowing that she was implying that Riku wouldn't be the one getting close to her. Since she always blamed everything on him. Amaranth had told her that she didn't need to worry, that she would take better care of herself. Her parents decided that for the time being she was just to stay at home and focus on herself and her recovery. She felt bad for being unable to help her family and be a burden, maybe later she'd return and help in the office or out front. She'd have to switch her hours, but that was okay. She just couldn't imagine being cooped up at home doing nothing, with Hina watching her every move.

There was a light knock on the door, 'Come in,' she called out. She figured it was the nurse coming in to give her the release form and paper work for recommended treatment and doctors.

Just as expected the nurse came in to give her all the information she needed and the clear from the doctor. She asked if she needed assistance out, but she shook her head. She would go and visit Riku before Hina arrived to take her home. Hina had been forced to leave her side because she had meetings and appointments to attend too. Her mother had offered to leave work and come pick her up, but Hina had refused and said that she would come right after. Her mother consented, seeing as she had a lot of work at the bakery to take care of and job interviews to do. Until her return they would need an extra hand, since the temporary worker was covering for Shibuya and Shibuya was covering for her and demand at the bakery for their goods was raising. With the holidays coming up it would be hard to keep up with such a limited staff. The nurse finished her visit, congratulated her and wished her the best of luck. Amaranth nodded and thanked her, she grabbed her bag and was placing the paperwork inside, when there was another knock. She looked at the clock and realized it was too early for Hina to come pick her up, she was sure she still had time to go and visit Riku.

'Come in,' her the soft clear voice rang out.

Amaranth finished zipping up her bag and turned to greet her visitor, 'Good afternoon, how are you doing?'

'Doctor Conrard,' she offered Riku's attending doctor a smile. 'Hello, yourself, I am doing fine thank you. What brings you here?'

'I came to see if you were doing better,' he offered a smile of his own, she saw the smile reflected in his light brown hues.

'Yes, thank you, Doctor Yuri took excellent care of me,' she praised his student.

'He's still a little green around the edges, but he's a good doctor with a good head on his shoulders.'

She nodded and realized for the first time that he was actually quite handsome, tall, fit, with a light complexion, sharp facial features and very pretty brown hues with silver specks. A contrast with his dark brown hair that seemed to be styled effortlessly. He had a nice personality and caring nature, that fit with his profession as a medical care giver. 'Mhm,' she nodded with a smile.

'I see that you're packed, he's decided to release you already,' he noted her street clothes and book bag.

'Yes, I was going to go and visit Riku while my ride arrives,' she told him.

'Perfect, I was going to go and see how he was doing. Would you mind me escorting you,' he asked. She shook her head and made to grab her bag, but he stopped her and walked over to grab it for her. 'I wouldn't feel right making you carry something so heavy.'

'It's not heavy, but thank you,' she kindly took his offer and they both walked out together, walking side by side down the hall to Riku's room. He was telling her a funny story, when they arrived and knocked on the a jar door.

'Be warned, he's been a little irritable these last couple of days. I think that he missed his daily vitamin fix,' he told her with a knowing grin.

'Daily vitamin,' she asked as he opened the door and they walked in.

'I am sure he'll be better now,' he winked at her and she got his reference, feeling a blush come to her face. There was no way that he would miss her, right? From his point of view they only knew each other for less then a week, so there was no way that he could develop feelings for her in such a short time. 'Hello, Riku, how are you doing?'

Riku had turned his head to see who would walk inside and was surprise to see his doctor and her walking in together. On top of that, he was helping her with her bag and whispering something to her that made her blush. Upon seeing her reaction and how close they were, sent a bitterness through him as his muscles tightened and a burning sensation in his stomach began. 'I was doing better,' he snapped briskly.

Both Doctor and Amaranth turned to look up at the sullen young man, who turned his gaze away when there eyes met. 'I am sorry to hear that, do you feel pain or discomfort anywhere,' the doctor left her side after placing her bag on the chair by the window.

Riku glared up at his doctor, thinking how unfair it was that he was stuck in a hospital bed with a broken leg and fractured ribs, while he got to waltz around the hospital courting damsels in distress. 'Nothing besides the usual,' he contradicted his first comment.

'Hmm,' the Doctor nodded and began to check Riku over. 'Well, you seem to be doing fine, so I'll leave you to your guest.'

Riku nodded and expected him to leave, but was annoyed when he walked over to her and said something in a soft tone before he said his good-bye to her. 'Ahem,' he cleared his throat in order to draw her attention away from the semi-okay looking doctor.

She turned her gaze away from the doctor's retreating form and to Riku's on the bed. 'Hi,' she finally greeted him, but remained by the window, she hadn't wanted to intrude on Doctor Conrard's check up.

Hi, hi, that was all he was going to get after she had gone rogue for two days and her friend came in here threatening him and calling him names. He was upset and he didn't understand why, but he knew that it was because he didn't like the thought of her with anyone else or with someone else. 'What did the Doctor tell you,' he tried to calm down, but the words still came out cold and harsh.

'Nothing, just that you seemed to be doing better,' she lied and worried that her presence had caused his sudden mood swing. He looked angry at her.

'That's why he had to whisper in you ear,' he snapped, he couldn't control his emotion.

Amaranth looked over at him puzzled, before she smiled at him when she realized that he was jealous. He didn't remember her, but a part of him subconsciously did and it still hated for people, particularly males, getting too close to her. 'He just wanted to ease my worry,' she answered.

'If you were so worried, where have you been,' he sarcastically asked.

'Preoccupied,' she replied.

Riku didn't like the secrets that she was keeping and why was she so far away, he noticed that she still hadn't budged from the window. 'You and the Doctor aren't seeing each other are you?'

Amaranth shook her head at his sudden question, 'No, but over the past few weeks we've become friends.'

Friends, my ass, he thought to himself. No male got close to a female without wanting something more than friendship. His relationship with Namine was a testament to that, he knew that she meant well, but after she cheated on him there was no way of him taking her back. Sure she had changed, matured and learned from her mistake, but he didn't view her as anything more than a friend that he shared common interest. 'I am sure that your boyfriend wouldn't approve of you getting close to someone else,' he commented.

He saw her frown a little, but nodded, 'You're right, but I think that he's someone that would understand me and know that I only care about him.'

Wait, she had a boyfriend, this didn't make any sense. What about him, what was he to her? Just a friend as well. 'Then he must get jealous of the fact that you spend so much time with me,' he threw out there.

Amaranth smiled softly, 'I doubt it, but if you're worried I'll go,' she made to grab her bag.

'There is no rush,' he told her with a sudden panic that she would actually leave. There is was, he didn't know this woman, but without her by his side he'd worry. Imagining her with someone else annoyed him and actually seeing her with someone else enraged him. Maybe, he liked her, but since she already had a boyfriend he was waiting his time to be with her and sweep her off her feet. Yeah, that was probably it. He wanted to stay close to her, so the moment she got dumped he'd be there.

8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8

Riku sat patiently as his family debated what to do with him. After two weeks of being watched and care for by the medical staff, since he awoke from his coma, they were finally going to release him. His memories hadn't returned, but the only ones he was missing were that of the petite girl, who's presence was slowly dwindling. It seemed that her new guardian refused to let her stay for more then an hour a day, leaving most of his time unoccupied. She brought books to keep him entertained, but after a while even they got boring. People didn't visit as much, because they were either working or leading their own lives. Now his parents and cousin were debating on where he should go once he was fully released in two days. His parents said it was best if he returned with them, so that he could be watched and care for by his mother. His cousin told them that it was best if he went home, home he had wondered and images of a cozy apartment flashed into his mind. A place that made him feel welcome and happy, from the decor he knew that it wasn't just his place and he never had a green thumb so he was living with someone else.

'He can't go home,' his mother protested. 'Who's going to be there to feed him and take care of him when he needs help? Hiring someone would be unorthodox, if he has someone that can take care of him.'

'The doctor said that he can get around on crutches and I am sure that he can take a bath and go to the bathroom on his own,' Xemnas told her. 'Going home would be his best option.'

'But didn't he sale you his place, when you decided to move here,' his Uncle reminded him.

'True, but I am sure that his roommate wouldn't mind helping him,' he told him.

'We can't let a stranger be responsible for our son's health,' his Uncle stated, still unaware of the fact that said stranger was Amaranth.

'They are not a stranger, you could call them family.' Pretty soon, regardless of statues wether they got together or not they would be…he turned to look at his Aunt. If he told her the news and who his roommate was would she still protest? No, he shook his head, she wouldn't. She'd be over the moon ecstatic about the fact and would probably be over there herself everyday to help. 'Can I speak with you in private,' he suggested to his Aunt and they stepped out after a moments hesitation on her part.

Riku and his father stayed inside the small white washed room, with a small soundless television in the background and chairs for his guests. 'How's work?'

'The usual, however with your cases being redistributed it's been a bit more work intensive.'

'Right,' he nodded.

'Not like they can't handle it, you left well organized notes and your assistant has been helpful. Although, I think just like everyone else, he is waiting for your return.'

'Yeah, when he comes to visit, he always asks when I'll be back,' he said as he recalled all his assistant's visit. The first one, he came in crying like an idiot and throwing himself on him. Of course, he pushed him off and asked if he was trying to break his ribs completely so that he would remain at the hospital for a longer time. He apologized and claimed to just be so over joyed that he was alive and well. Amaranth had been there and watched the whole show with an amused smile on her rose colored lips. The third time he had told him what was going on at work and began to ask when he would be returning. He felt able and capable, but the doctor had told him that after his release he wanted him to remain at home a little longer so his ribs completely healed and his leg got stronger. 'Hopefully it'll be soon.'

'Hmm,' his father nodded and they both looked over at the closed wooden door leading outside. His mother had gasped and let out a cry, 'I'll be back, I am going to go and see what's wrong.'

'Okay,' he said as he watched his father get up and go see what was going on. When the door opened and just before it shut, he saw his mother lunging herself into his father's arms. Apparently, whatever had been said wasn't bad. His mother seemed beyond elated, he wondered what his cousin could say to put her in such a happy mood and possibly change her mind. No, based on her reaction she had already changed her mind and he was going to be sent back to the apartment he share with his roommate. He wondered whom the roommate was, because based on his memories it seemed that his roommate had a feminine touch.

Five minutes passed and he could only hear murmuring from behind the closed door. However, when the door opened his cousin strolled in victorious, his Mother elated and his Father shocked, confused and just amazed with him. 'So I am guessing that a decision has been made without me,' he asked them.

'Don't worry we took your opinion into account,' Xemnas reassured him with a devious smile.

'You guys never let me voice it,' Riku pointed out.

'I already know what you'd say,' Xemnas told him.

Riku sighed, 'So I guess I am going to the apartment I share with a stranger.'

'She is not a stranger, you've just forgotten her is all,' his Mother stated. 'However, I hope that you regain your memories real soon.'

'Why,' he was moving in with Amaranth, he realized by her comment. Well, not moving in, he already lived with her so going back home to her. So she was someone to him, besides his close friend, right?

'You should go home to someplace familiar and safe,' his Mother explained.

'Wouldn't that apply to going back home with you guys?'

'Yes, but you'd be staying in a guest bedroom, not you're own,' she tried to save.

'Dad,' he turned to the silent man that was still looking at him as if he were an anomaly.

'I agree with you,' he got hit on his ribs by his mother, 'but you're Mother and Cousin are right, you should go back home. You'll be surrounded by your belongings and more at ease.'

'Plus, we'll come to visit and see you often,' his Mother added.

'Xion will also be happy to finally be able to see you too,' Xemnas said with a cheery smile. 'She's been sad not being allowed to see her favorite Uncle, but now she'll spend more time with you.'

'What do you mean, more time?'

'Well, since Amaranth has more time on her hands and Xion's Nanny has been called away back home for medical reasons, she stays at Amaranth's after school. She does such a good job with her, I wonder if one day she'll consider being her actual mother.' He meant it too only annoy Riku, but also caused his Aunt and Uncle to turn and glare at him. 'Hmm, I am starting to see the family resemblance now,' he joked.

'That wasn't a funny joke,' Riku's Mother dead panned.

'You shouldn't quit your day job, because you wouldn't make it as a comedian,' Riku's Father added.

'Tough crowd,' he held his ground, but realized that his intended purpose had already been achieved since he had got a physical reaction from Riku. He might have not said anything, but the twitch in his left eye said enough.

Before they could continue to say anything to him, there was a knock on the door before Kairi and Namine appeared. That was Xemnas's queue to say farewell and take off, he promised to be back and help him return home. His parents said their farewells as well and told him they'd be back tomorrow. They greeted the girls before their departure and apologized for having to leave so soon after their arrival. Kairi and Namine just nodded and watched as the two left, determined to catch their nephew and teach him a lesson or two about manners and how not to try and steal what wasn't his. Kairi pulled a chair by the one Namine had taken, by Riku's bedside. 'You're parents look lively,' Kairi commented as she took a sit.

'Better than before, seems that whatever news Xemnas told them lifted their spirits,' Riku answered.

'I would imagine that you being able to go home, would have something to do with it,' Namine remembered Xemnas comment about helping him home.

'Yeah, I get released in two days,' he clarified.

'How nice, your Mother must be excited to get her son back home, so she can spoil you and take care of you,' Kairi beamed at the image of Riku being babied.

'I won't be going to their house,' Riku shattered her dreams.

'Oh, where will you be going then,' Namine asked.

'Home, to where I've been living for the last five months,' he answered without hesitation.

Kairi nodded, but looked over at Namine, whom fell silent before forcing a smile and nodding. 'I am sure you'll be in excellent care there,' she said.

'Maybe,' he realized her suddenly forced cheerfulness.

'Amaranth must be excited for the news,' she said trying to gauge a reaction from Riku.

'She doesn't know, when she stops by later I'll have to talk with her.' Riku said.

'I am sure that she'll be happy to hear the news,' Kairi smiled at him, but she worried about Namine. It seemed that with Riku's memory loss of Amaranth, she had somehow gotten her hopes up that maybe he could look at her. Nonetheless, Kairi had told her before not to get any foolish ideas since he could end up regaining his memories and leaving her. She had protested saying that maybe it was a sign, that Riku didn't love her enough and that the girl would soon be pushed aside. Kairi knew that Amaranth loved Riku enough that she would give him up if she had too and as of now she hadn't said anything about their relationship to him. She just remained at his side diligently, possible hoping that his memories returned or fearing that he would leave her.

'Yeah, but I don't know how her guard dog will react to the news,' he heard from her that Hina was staying at the apartment with her during the day. Maybe with his arrival she'd decide not to show up or stay so long. Nope, this was her Princess he was talking about there was no way she'd leave her and him alone for long periods of time.

'She has a dog,' Kairi asked confused, she had gone over with Sora to her apartment and never seen signs of a pet, let alone a dog.

'Not an actual dog, but her friend,' he told her.

'Sounds unpleasant, maybe you shouldn't return there,' Namine voiced. 'If her friend reacts negatively to your arrival, it could be harmful to your health mentally and physically.'

'I don't think that Amaranth will allow anything to happen to Riku, while he's under her care,' Kairi tried to brush off Namine's comment. Sure they were family and she loved her, would do anything to support her, but she knew that Riku wouldn't truly be happy with her and neither would she after she realized how much he actually cared for Amaranth. Before the accident, Riku had been a different man, he had become more caring and generous. He was always happy and less temperamental, when he was with Amaranth he always watched her when he didn't think anyone was looking, mainly her. It was a side of him that she had never seen, not even with Namine when they were dating did he act so in love, that he was possessive, doting and caring. With the petite female he was a changed man and the fact that she complimented him and made him happy was enough to understand why anyone could fall in love with her.

Namine turned to her cousin in disbelief at her statement, who's side was she on. 'Even so, wouldn't be better if Riku stayed somewhere that he would have peace of mind? His parents house would be a good option, but if they don't want him. He can stay with me.'

'I am not an abandoned child or animal and the decision has already been made, it'll just be up to Amaranth if she decides to take care of me or not.' Riku statement drew back Namine's attention. 'Although, I appreciate your concern, I am sure that I'll be fine. Even with a broken leg, I think I can handle myself, if all else fails and I am forced to move out.'

Kairi sighed internally as she saw the look of resignation cross Namine's face. 'I am sure you won't be forced to move out.'

Namine couldn't believe it, even after everything and the fact that he didn't remember her, he still choose her. Why, she wanted to scream and demand but knew that he wouldn't have a plausible answer. The woman was an enigma that he wanted to be near so that he could understand her, but he was also falling for her once again. This wasn't fair, she had made up her mind to let him go when she saw him happy with Amaranth and then her feelings were all turnt around when he forgot her and she though she had a chance. Was this it, was she going to have to give up trying to win Riku's affection for good? Because this time she knew that if she let him go, she was going to have to let him go for good. She had loved him and let him go, but he never came back to her. Maybe he had not loved her in return and that was why years ago he let her go so easily without a fight. Yet not knowing Amaranth, he clings on to her and wished to stay by her side. So did that mean that he truly loved her? 'Namine,' Kairi called out to her, withdrawing her from her thoughts.

'Yes, sorry,' she turned to her.

'I was just telling Riku that we should all get together once he gets released to celebrate, what do you think?'

It'd be more like celebrating his return to Amaranth, she forced a smile. 'That sounds like a great idea,' not really, she thought bitterly. 'Where should we host it?'

'I was thinking since Sora and I just moved in to our new place and no one has come to visit, why not there? I can send out invitations and get party decorations.'

'It sounds like you just want an excuse to party,' Namine genuinely smiled at her cousin's excitement.

'Maybe,' she blushed as if caught. 'So what do you think?'

And that was the sum of there visit, they went to see how Riku was doing and planned a party for his quick recovery. It was a nice change in topic, but Namine couldn't let go of the fact that she had lost. She had lost to someone that didn't even put up a fight or knew that she had intentions of stealing Riku. It wasn't fair, she felt that she at least needed to confront the woman once to see if she was worthy or see what made her worthy of his true affections. 'Don't,' Kairi sudden said as they were riding the elevator back down to the main entrance of the hospital.

'Excuse me,' she turned to her cousin.

'Don't do whatever it is you're planning,' she stated.

'What do you mean?'

'Namine, I know you. Since Riku announced that he was going back home to Amaranth you've become quiet. On top of that you kept fighting the idea of him going back to her.'

'They are strangers,' she bitterly answered.

'They are not, the fact that he doesn't remember her doesn't make them strangers.'

'But there has to be a reason why he just forgot her,' she defended. 'If he really loved her, he wouldn't forget her existence, in fact she would be the only one that he remembered.'

'You two were getting along so well,' Kairi pointed out.

'Because we were both grieving of what could have been, but thank goodness didn't happen.'

Kairi shook her head, 'You should give her an actual chance. Once you get to know her, you'll see what a good person she is and why he loves her.'

The bitter cold seeped in as they exited the hospital and Kairi's words hit her. He loved her, there was no possible way, she denied to herself. As she pulled her coat closer against her and followed after Kairi. If fall was all ready this unbearable, she could just imagine winter and how lonely she'd be once again. To love and let go, she hated the thought as it crossed her mind, but only if he was truly happy would she walk away and extend the olive branch.

8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8

Amaranth was walking out of the elevator, when she ran into Dr. Conrard. 'Hello,' she greeted him with a soft smile that he returned.

'It's always a pleasant surprise to run into such a lovely lady,' he saw the soft blush creep onto her cheeks.

'Thank you,' she softly stated.

'I am guessing you are here to see Riku?'

'Hm,' she nodded.

'He's doing a wonderful job recovering,' Dr. Conrard said as he led the way to Riku's room, keeping the young woman company.

'I was told that he would be released soon,' she stated.

'Correct, our short visits will slowly come to an end,' he sighed. 'How have you been doing though? Did you find a doctor?'

'Yes,' she nodded, 'I'll being seeing Dr. Uzumaki, she is one of the doctors that Dr. Yuri suggested.'

'Ah,' he recalled the doctor's name, 'she is a good choose and well known in her field. So have you decided when to tell everyone, him?'

Amaranth stopped a few doors away from Riku's room and remained quiet as she thought of what to say. 'I don't what to be a burden and I don't think that its the right time,' she finally answered.

'You won't be able to hide it forever and his cousin is bound to tell him, if you don't,' he pointed out.

'I know, it's just,' she didn't want to think about how he would react. If he would reject her and not just her but them, it would be a devastating blow, it was better to just be his friend and if nothing developed then she would just slowly step away and allow him to find happiness with someone else if that's what he wanted.

'Fear of rejection is understandable,' Dr. Conrard read her mind and softly smiled, 'but I have a feeling that its something that you won't have to suffer.'

She looked up at him puzzled, Riku hadn't made any progress in remembering her and he hadn't really inquired further about their relationship. He had accepted her friendship without questions or protest, considering they shared nothing in common. 'Thank you, but I think that maybe he's just comfortable with my presence and that's what he's used too. Once he is released he'll go back to his family and slowly rebuild his life,' she answered with a bitter smile.

'Hmm, you never know,' he smiled softly as he took her hand and led her to Riku's room.

8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8-8

Riku looked from one to the other and then at their linked hands, he unconsciously flexed his hands in and out of fist formation. In the last week or so Amaranth and the Doctor had become close. Extremely close, since now they were holding hands. Didn't she say previously that she had a boyfriend, but now here she was holding some other man's hand casually. On top of that they always seemed to come and visit at the same time. He watched as the Doctor released her hand and greeted him as if nothing, 'Hello, Riku, how are you doing today?'

'Fine,' he answered as he walked over to begin his check up and out of the corner of his eye he watched as Amaranth went to the seat by the window. She'd always go there when the doctor was here, maybe it was to show their distance towards each other so the doctor wouldn't get worried about their relationship.

'That's great to hear and with your release soon, even better,' Doctor Conrard said with a cheery smile and voice. He continued his check up, before he excused himself and said good-bye to them.

Once they were alone Amaranth got up and went to take the seat by his bedside. 'I am happy to hear about your release,' Amaranth softly stated as she tried to ignore the cold glare he cast in her direction. 'Your parents must be excited that you'll be going home. Your Mother especially, since she's been worried about your stay here,' she continued.

'Your boyfriend most have a lot of patients, must be a man of high tolerance,' he ignored her previous comment.

'Excuse me,' she felt her smile waver at his sudden statement.

'To have his girlfriend constantly surrounded by so many men, it must be an annoyance. Especially since, she allows herself to be touched so casually as well,' he remembered their linked hands.

His jealousy was flaring she realized and she needed to calm him, 'If you are referring to the Doctor and I, there is nothing but friendship between us.'

'Hmph,' he didn't believe her, 'what about Xemnas?'

'Friends,' she answered without hesitation, but wondered if Xemnas was up to his old tricks.

'I find it hard to believe,' he turned away from her with displeasure, before he started coughing, his throat drying up and becoming scratchy.

Quickly she got up and filled his water glass, 'Here,' she handed him the glass.

He took the glass from her hand and drank, after his parch throat was clenched he turned to her. He was on the verge of saying thank you when he stopped, he noticed that her hands grabbed the hem of her shirt, her body tense, soft amber hues looked him over trying to see if there was anything wrong. She worried about him, but it seemed that it was beyond normal or maybe he wanted to see beyond the friendship that she claimed was all that was between them. 'Are you alright,' she asked.

He nodded and watched as she sighed in relief at his gesture, 'Would you like more water,' she took the empty glass from his hand, but made sure not too touch him or linger.

'No, thank you,' he watched as she replaced the glass on his nightstand by the water pitcher and returned to her seat.

The silence was deafening, in the background all that could be heard was the steady flow of the heater, the chattering of the nurses, patients and guests traveling up and down the hall through the barely open door. Amaranth let a minute or two tick away before she stopped looking down at her folded hands on top of her lap and lifted her head to look up Riku. Her words came to a halt as their eyes met and she stared into beautiful aquamarine hues that pierced her soul and made her melt. A gaze that had only fallen on her in curiosity and wonder, but now seemed to have a different meaning, a meaning that had long been forgotten. 'Ahem,' the sound of a woman clearing her throat broke them out of their trance. 'Sorry, I knocked, but no one answered.'

Standing in the doorway, not too far inside stood Namine, a forced smile on her lips as she tried to keep her facial muscles in check. She had walked in on them having a moment, something so intimate that she felt relieved that she ruined it, but at the same time scared. What powers did the small woman sitting beside him have that she didn't? What made she so special considering the fact that yeah she was pretty, but not as beautiful as her. 'Hello,' Amaranth smiled up at her, not in the least bit fazed by the fact that they had just been interrupted. 'I was just about to go and get something to drink. Would you like something as well?'

'No, I actually just came back to get my phone,' she answered turning away from the young woman and her genuine offer to cater to her.

'Oh,' Amaranth nodded and gently sadden at the realization that just like she made efforts to be with Riku, so did Namine. The woman cared for him as much as she did and if she recalled so did Riku. "Don't go, stay," she remembered Riku's command to the beautiful blonde weeks ago. It had pushed her beyond the limit and caused her mental break, with him not remembering her and asking someone else to stay. Someone he remembered and at one point in his life cared for and maybe even loved, made her stress and collapse. However, now whether he stayed with her or not she had something of his to remember him by. She swiftly got up and excused herself, leaving him behind with someone that could possibly take him away from her.

Namine watched as Riku watched the young woman get up and excuse herself. It was as if she had him placed under an enchantment and she wondered why? She, the petite female had a beautiful face, but lately she looked thinner and her clothes baggy and unseemly. So why did he find her mesmerizing? She waited until she left before venturing towards Riku and taking the seat previously occupied by Amaranth. 'I thought you just came for your phone,' Riku turned to look at her after the door closed.

'Can't I have a moment of your time alone with you,' she asked.

Riku looked at her suspiciously, but nodded. 'What would you like to talk about?'

'Us,' she answered.

'What about us?'

'I was thinking that you and I could get together again. These last few weeks have been wonderful. I think that you and I could become something special again,' she stated.

Riku remained silent, he just looked Namine over, thinking about his past relationship with her and his current one. When they were younger they had a wonderful relationship until the day he caught her cheating. He remembered the anger and the disappointment, but at the same time the relief that he didn't have to go through with asking her to marry him. When they split up he realized that he hadn't been committed to their relationship as much as he thought. That, although he felt a great deal of care for her, he didn't love her. He didn't love her as much as, suddenly a pain shot through his head as a memory resurfaced. 'Riku,' Namine got up and went over to him, 'are you alright?'

'Nn,' his hands both rushed to his head.

'I'll get a doctor,' she reached for the nurse's button, but Riku's hand shot forward to stop her.

'Don't,' he groaned as he threw his head back onto the pillow to rest, the throbbing pain slowly going away. 'I am fine,' he sighed.

'You where just in pain,' Namine pointed out.

'Because I was remembering,' he answered as he released her hand.

Namine paled, this meant that he remembered her and that once again she would be pushed aside. Yet she needed to know what he remembered, maybe he didn't remember everything. 'What do you recall?'

'A little girl,' he answered. 'She was standing outside in what looked to be a garden with a pond, but the garden was covered in snow.'

Why was he remembering a small child, she wondered. 'What else?'

Riku concentrated hard of the figment of memory, 'She was wearing a pink coat, she had long dark hair that floated behind her as the wind blew,' he recalled her from behind as she squatted down to look at the pond.

'Do you recall her face?'

Riku shook his head, 'She had her back turned to me.'

'Well, its weird that you would be remembering a child. Maybe she was a childhood friend,' she suggested and noticed that they had gotten off topic. 'I am happy that you are remembering lost memories, but we still need to talk about us.'

Riku internally sighed, 'I told you before that I accept your apology, but we can't go back to what we were. You are a beautiful woman, well educated, with a great job and a bright future that has just barely started. However, I am not in that future as an admirer, a partner or a lover, just a friend. These last few weeks you have been a great friend that has supported me and been there for me and I thank you for that. I hope that you and I can remain friends.'

Namine's mind had blanked, he still just saw her as a friend and didn't want anything more. Suddenly, she felt a wave of sadness and regret wash over her. If only she had tried harder to win him over and stayed by his side. But she had left him, she had though that they could get over the past and start anew, but now. Her hands began to tremble as she clutched them over her lap, her body shaking as she tried to control the tears that filled her baby blue hues. This was horrible, she told herself as she hung her head in defeat, her hair falling over and covering her face.

'Namine,' Riku called out to her worried.

'Sorry,' her voice wavered as she got up. 'I just remembered I have somewhere to be.'

Riku watched as she gathered her purse and phone before taking off without another word. He figured it was best not to stop her, considering he was probably the cause of her sudden departure. To say he wasn't affected was a lie, but to say that he would give anything in the world to go after her was also a lie. He cared about her as a friend, but not as a lover. That was probably why so many years ago he had been able to walk way and not forgive her. He groaned, closed his eyes and placed his hand over his face, he was such a fool. He had just been using her as a replacement for…for who? There was a knock on the door, he lowered his hand and watched as Amaranth walked in carrying two coffee cups. Her face a little troubled, 'What happened with Namine? I just saw her rushing out.'

He studied her before answering, 'She said she had something to do.'

'Oh,' she looked down at the extra cup of tea that she had brought for Namine, if she changed her mind about not wanting a drink. She looked rushed when she left, but Amaranth was certain that she was wiping her eyes too. 'You guys didn't happen to fight, did you,' her voice soft and timid almost afraid of the answer.

She was a small timorous creature, he realized and felt like he had to reassure her, 'I swear we didn't, we just had personal things to talk about.'

'Oh,' she answered, but slowly her eyes began to widen as her realized what would make her cry. She looked up at him and wondered if he had rejected her because he had feelings for her or because he couldn't forgive Namine completely. She knew there was a history between them, but he never told her exactly what it was and she never pried for information. She figured that when he was ready he'd tell her.

'Amaranth,' she had been quiet for too long and she continued to stand motionless with her head down looking at the ground. He realized that he hated when she did that, he hated when she was silent and withdrawn from him.

'Yes,' she lifted her head to look at him.

'Come,' he gestured to the seat by his bed, he needed to have her seated so that they could talk about him moving back in with her and ask if she was willing to accommodate him, 'sit.'

—

A/N: Hey, guys sorry for the delay. Work and life happened, so I was unable to update sooner. I hope that so far you guys are enjoying Riku and Amaranth's journey, because it's so sad to say that we are bordering the end. I feel like they have some so far and are ready for their happy ending. So please stick with me for a little longer. Also, thank you so much for the reviews, they are a great motivation for me. I am always so over the moon happy when I get one, so please don't be afraid to leave a comment. Thank you.