The only light in the room was the fireplace, causing the flickering of light and Charon's and Fakir's faces. Fakir obviously didn't want to be here, and surprisingly Charon felt the same.

"As I was saying Fakir, I know that Ahiru probably pulled you on top, but still you have to be careful…" Fakir just sank back into the couch, trying to drown out Charon's voice. Ughh. We've already had this discussion five years ago, why does he have to bring it up again?! Fakir just ignored the one-way conversation, by trying to get some sleep. Maybe if I fall asleep he'll stop…

Fakir fell himself drift off, until Charon uttered something to instantly wake him up. Fakir bolted up. "What did you say?!" Charon smiles. He knows he found Fakir's weak point. "That you should try to control your impulses on someone like Ahiru?" Fakir rolled his eyes. "Not that!"

"You didn't let me finish…" Fakir sits back down. "Fakir, just to be careful around Ahiru. I know she probably cares for you as much as you would care for her…" Charon looks up to see Fakir staring at the wall, avoiding his gaze. "Yeah right…" "Fakir, don't hide your feelings. It's painfully obvious to me that you do." Charon smirks. "I practically raised you." Charon sighs. "All I'm saying is that just don't pressure Ahiru. She would do anything for you Fakir, and many a man would take advantage of that." "Charon, honestly. Who do you think I am?"

"Fine, no more on the subject, just be careful." Fakir grunts in response. "I also wanted to give you advice…" "On…?" "Don't close yourself off to Ahiru. She's the type of girl who would want to help you in any way, but you would shrug off her help. I know it." Fakir slowly turns toward Charon.

Like during the storm…

"And to let Ahiru in once and a while. I know it's hard, but Fakir, think about it. A relationship can not survive alone with good looks and kisses." Fakir turns slightly red. "Yes, I know Fakir." Fakir gives Charon a scowl in return. "Just be honest around her. Don't be afraid to show her what you really feel, what you think, what you fear…" Fakir stands up. "Sure Charon. When did you become the philosopher?" "Fakir…" "I'm doing fine. She's doing fine. Charon, just stop." Fakir has had enough of this. He walks up the stairs to his room. "I don't need anyone telling me how to lead my own, personal life. Got it?" "Fakir, it's not as easy as it seems! I'm just doing this because I'm your-." Fakir glares at Charon. "Charon, you're NOT my father." Fakir storms in his room.

He walks to the edge of his bed and sits down. Why does everyone feel the need to intervene?! I could do just fine on my own! Fakir sighs and turns to see Ahiru sleeping contently. He remembers their recent fight. What was it about? Me being defensive, Ahiru saying I don't let anyone ever see the true me? Fakir lies down as far from Ahiru as possible. I have to be more careful around her… I already almost lost her once…

Fakir reaches out to grab the end of Ahiru's long braid, and holds the bob at the end to his chest. If only it wasn't so hard. Ahiru, just stay with me, okay? Because I'm not even brave enough to say this to you while you're awake.

Fakir leans over to whisper something in her ear. "Ahiru, just stay with me. I need you…more than you know."

Fakir stiffens at Ahiru's sudden movement. "Ahiru?" She's thrashing gently, in her sleep. The Baka's having a nightmare…

Fakir hesitantly wraps an arm around her waist to keep her from moving, and pulls her close. He whispers in her ear. "It's okay, I'm here." He smiles to himself as she falls into the peaceful pattern of sleep, subconsciously snuggling closer to him. He rests his head near her neck, inhaling her scent. Like the lake. Why am I not surprised?

He begins to let his eyelids droop, all the while still whispering to her. "Ahiru, just understand…I know you love me…But it's hard for me to say it…" Fakir drifts off into sleep.

Unknown to him Ahiru was awakened when he first placed his arm around her.

I hope Fakir bought that I was sleeping… Ahiru begins to drift off again when she opens her eyes instantly, after Fakir's whisper. It's hard for him…Ahiru feels her eyes beginning to tear up for some reason. I know it's hard Fakir, but why? She clutches Fakir's arm closer to her body. But don't worry Fakir, I'll make it easy for you…I'll find out why…

She sighs. I promise…


THAT'S THE END OF THE STORY PART!! Please review! I have to know if it sounds good!

OH YEAH. I DON'T OWN PRINCESS TUTU! This counts for this and all future story parts! ;)