Chapter 2 – Faces From The Past

When I open my eyes I blink at my unfamiliar surroundings. It doesn't help that I was sleeping on my face, practically suffocating in the pillow. Turning over I glance around and realize I'm still in Riku's room… but the bed is completely empty. Save for me. Images from last night flash through my head and I bury my face in the pillow again. Gaaaaaaahhhh! I just met him and we just… I swear, sometimes when I want something I have no patience at all. Come on Sora! It happened so fast but he was practically making my mouth water he's so delicious. And that was seriously amazing sex. Feeling a little less bashful than yesterday I climb out of bed, throw the blankets back up so it doesn't look like a complete mess, and sneak back to my room.

Closing the door as quietly as I can I throw myself onto my own bed, already happy about the darkness in the room because of those curtains. No more sun in my face in the morning! For some reason I check my phone which is a dumb idea. I have about ten texts just from Kairi last night! She's so impatient… as if I can talk. And there's a voicemail? Strange… I call my voicemail as I'm laying in bed, enjoying the soft blankets with a secret smile. When the message begins I'm surprised to hear a male voice through the phone. Kairi isn't the one that called?

Hey Sora. It's been a while. It's Roxas. I just wanted to tell you I'll be in town starting tomorrow and that we should hang out. It's been forever since we hung out like old times. Anyways, text me when you get this. Talk to you later. Bye.The message ends.

!Roxas is in town! That's definitely not the message I was expecting at all. Actually I was sure it would be from Kairi telling me to hurry up or something completely nonsensical. Well this is a surprise. Reading through my texts I have to go over them twice because I'm distracted by the message. Just to be mean, when I finally text her back, all I say is good morning. That should irritate her right away. Then I text Roxas but it's been so long all I think to say is hey. I've never had a problem talking to him though so I doubt he'll even notice.

There's a small knock at my door and I invite it inside before finding out if it's going to eat me. Next time I should think that through… thankfully it's Riku. My smile is automatic.

He smiles at me with those intimate eyes. "I didn't want to wake you if you weren't ready."

It sends chills down my spine just thinking about him. I can't say it's helping that I keep staring at his lips. They're parted slightly in that usual frown but if I watch closely enough I can see the corner pull into a smirk. Is his little pout sexier than his smirk? Maybe just sexy in a different way. I get lost in thought as he sits beside me on the bed.

Can he already recognize my pervert face? "Keep it up and I might molest you again."

I've been caught! "Thank you for letting me sleep." I finally answer to the comment he'd said minutes ago. Watching him lay down, I sigh as he puts his hands behind his head, his shirt lifting to expose his stomach. His jeans are hugging low on his hips and I can… not think straight! Crawling on top of him I lay down, resting my chin on my hands, clasped together on his chest. "Actually since you're here I can ask you a question." He just raises an eyebrow, open for conversation. And Leon said he was moody… obviously they don't know him very well. "He's dumb." I laugh to myself.

He grunts, "Thinking out loud now?"

My face heats up. "Did I say that out loud?"I cover my embarrassing expression. "That's not what I was gonna say at all." With my face still in his chest I ask my question. It comes out as mumbles through the fabric of his shirt.

"I can't hear you when you're hiding in my shirt." His voice sounds distracted, like he's playing with something.

I ask again but I sound even more muffled, even to myself. I hear him clicking on something. Turning my head to the side I pout. "Would it be weird if I invited my friend over? Since I just moved in and whatnot."

He answers quickly. "Why would it be weird? You live here. Do what you want." The sudden vibration from his right pocket scared the hell out of me and I sit up.

I grab at the object trapped beneath the fabric and realize it's his phone. "Your phone vibrated." Looking up my eyes go wide when I see my phone in his hands. "That's mine!" I grab for it but he moves it away with ease.

He actually looks at me with a smirk. "I know. I'm putting my number in your phone." He raises an eyebrow because I'm still rubbing on the phone in his pocket. Then he smiles again, but it's a smile I haven't seen before. "You want a picture?"

It's my turn to stare at him. "A picture of what?" Maybe the answer was obvious… why did I need to ask? He grabs my hand and rubs it over his crotch, catching me completely off guard. When I look up at him he takes a picture. "Huh?"

For the first time I hear him laugh. "It looks like I caught you red handed doing something you shouldn't." My frown grows in concern. He clicks away on my phone and I feel another vibration from his pocket. I look up at him again in confusion. He stares back. "I'm sending it to myself…"

"Whaaaat!?" I grab for my phone but he shoves me down and I end up just laying on him again. I cry in a whiny voice. "That's mine." I feel him pull at the shirt I'm laying on and sit up a little. He's holding the phone up again and showing his chest like he's taking off his shirt. "Stoooop." I cover him with myself. "Don't put nipples on my phoooone."

He laughs again. "Why?"

Sitting up with a bit of determination I glare at him. "Because Kairi looks at my phone and I don't need her seeing random pictures of you naked!"

I heard the phone vibrate again but I glance down at his pocket, thinking to myself… I don't think I felt it vibrate just now. ! Looking up he's clicking through my phone again and his grin is so… not nice. My phone vibrated! He snickers. "If you ask me, I don't think Kairi would be surprised by any pictures on your phone."

I fight the little machine out of his hands and he gives it up this time. When I look it's already open to the new text from… of course from Kairi… I practically die when I read it. Scrambling off of him I cry in a little Sora ball of tears for a few seconds. Idiot… her text read: Best fuck ever? Does he have a big dick? I might have to kill her next time I see her. Listening to him get out of the bed he turns on the light and moves to stand in front of me. Eventually I look up.

He's already taken off his shirt and I melt a little just looking at his body. It's like he has access to my weakness… hard delicious muscle. I could just eat off his abs. I'm so distracted I don't even care what he's doing. Messing up his hair a little he gives me an intense face, grabbing the edge of his pants which inch down teasingly since he has no belt on. "Take a picture."

I blink a few times. "Huh?"

He's still posing. "Send her a picture. Let's see if that gets a reaction out of her." I just shake my head, not wanting to share. He smiles. "You'll get to keep it too, obviously. Make her jealous."

Weird, it's like he knows her. With my own sinister grin I'm obliged to take a picture now, maybe with a little too much excitement. Before I lose my nerve I send it to her. Of course once it's sent I can't stop staring, but I have the real thing so that's even better. A little disappointed, I watch him put his shirt back on. He just smiles at me, shaking his head.

Walking towards me he digs the phone out of his pocket. "Now it's my turn." I don't even have time to react before he's on top of me, pinning my arms above my head with one hand. I yell in surprise as his mouth is suddenly sucking on my nipple. After teasing both with his tongue he pulls back to take a picture. He reads the pleading embarrassment on my face before I say anything. "I love that look you get when your cheeks are flush. Like you're ready to fuck." He kisses me before letting me go.

I pout for maybe a minute before magically being back to normal. Why would I mind being molested, he's super hot. And he's completely right about that face… that's kind of embarrassing.

He ruffles his hair. "So what were you really going to ask me earlier… about a friend staying here. Is it this girl?" He points at my phone.

"Oh." I almost forgot about that. "No. It's not her. It's one of my old friends. He lives out of town so we don't get to see each other much anymore. He's my oldest friend. I guess he's the closest thing to a brother I have…" I think about it and nod, knowing for sure that's true.

He just nods. "Where's he gonna sleep?"

I shrug, like the answer should be obvious. "In my bed, of course." He makes a face at me. "Oh, actually." Taking out my phone I run through the pictures again. "I have a picture of him in here… where is it…" I find the little blonde smiling in the image and pull it up. "Here he is! Roxas!"

"Roxas?" He leans forwards to look at the picture, making a face like his name sounds weird. He looks from my phone to me several times. "Are you sure you aren't brothers."

"…yes… why would I not be sure?" I raise an eyebrow at him. "You're not gonna try and molest him, are you!?"

He glares at me. "If you're jumping to conclusions already maybe you shouldn't invite him." He falters when I pout. I knew it! He can't resist my adorable face. "Anyways, I've gotta go to campus for some school stuff. Text me if you get bored." He pulls me into a kiss before disappearing through the doorway.

Dialing Roxas I decide to change clothes as I'm listening to the line ring, calling for him to pick up. His voice answers and I bombard him with nonsense you can only say to a friend you haven't spoken to in a long time. "… How long are you going to be in town? You can come stay at my place as long as you need."

"You have a place?" I hear him laugh a little too heartily. "It's a miracle."

I growl so he can hear me. "Shut up! Do you want a place to stay or not."

Of course he gives in; he was just giving me a hard time. "I'll be in town for a few days. I'm actually coming to check out your school."

"Oh?" During this whole conversation I've only managed to put on my pants. "Hold on, let me put my shirt on." I put the phone down to pull on a T-shirt and when I pick it up I can hear him talking to someone else. "I'm back."

He just picks up where he left off. "I'll be driving so can I park my car at your place? Did you say you have a house or an apartment? I can't remember."

"A house. I have three other roommates." I add, "I think you'll like them," with a secretive smile. He can still recognize my sneakiness through the phone and immediately questions me. "I'm not trying to trick you. I swear."

There's a long silence. "Fine… I guess I'll figure it out tomorrow anyways. Tell me your address again. I need to write it down so I can get directions." By directions he means a map. He hates when I give him landmarks and forget street names, but give me a break, I don't have a car. I tell him again and can tell he's writing because his voice is muffled from the phone being smashed against his face. We discuss what time he might arrive and hang up. Well that was an eventful phone call. I don't think we're usually so organized.

The little cell vibrates from a text and I open it. From Kairi. She must have messaged me while I was talking to Roxas since the texts don't go through till I'm done. It's a ton of exclamation points… that's all. It makes me smirk in accomplishment. Suddenly my phone rings and her picture pops up. I answer with a smile. "Yeeesss?"

"Why were you on the phone so long!? God, I've been going completely crazy."She makes some irrational noises I can't translate. "He's soooooo hot. How'd you get him to let you send me a picture?" She giggles. "You didn't tell him, did you?"

I groan loudly. "No stupid, it's your fault. You texted me and he had my phone so he read it! It was his idea to send the picture. I hope you're suffering." Of course she starts laughing. Why am I the only one that's ever embarrassed about anything? "I said suffer!"

"I am!" She yells, but I can tell she's smiling. "Why do you have such a cute boyfriend now? I just wanna eat him up."

"Stop being a girl. You'd fit in perfect if you were a guy." I laugh.

She hisses something I can't understand. "You're sexist. I'll get a cute boyfriend too. Just… not yet... Gah! Sora! You suck!"She grumbles at me. "I wasn't competing or anything but you raised the bar a little high this time."

You're just jealous… "Oh by the way. Roxas will be here this week. Do you feel like hanging out? It's been a while for you guys right?"

I'm disappointed when I hear her sigh. "Yea. I guess. I'd rather avoid him. We just fight all the time so tell him I said hi… but tell him I'm busy. Sorry Sora." They dated for a while and broke up over a year ago. She's still mad at him but she never told me why. I try to let it slide; she tells me everything but she just won't tell me that.

"That's alright. I'll talk to you later. I should try not to be so lazy today." I sigh back.

She seems to accept my wanting to end our conversation without much worry. "K, bye bye."

"Bye." We both hang up.

I think about laying face down on my bed and falling back asleep… for no reason really, just because I can, but I decide to get up since I'm already dressed. Heading downstairs, I'm filled with curiosity about Leon and Axel. I'd be curious about Riku too if I didn't know he was out doing whatever he's doing.

I haven't really had a chance to look around the house since I was so focused on moving in the whole day. I saw the kitchen… and the bathroom… and the guys. Okay maybe I was focused completely on the guys but now I can look around. Of course Axel's in the living room when I walk in. He's sprawled out in a pair of black shorts watching TV with a bored frown. He's definitely in a good position to be attacked, but I resist. He seems to perk up a bit when he notices me walk into the room. "Hey Sora."

"Hi." I might as well get to the point… "Axel… do you like girls?"

For a few seconds he just stares at me, the sound of the TV humming in the background. He raises his eyebrows in curiosity. "Didn't we talk about this yesterday?"

I try to look nonchalant but I must suck at it because I can't tell if it's working. "One of my friends is going to stay for a few days actually."

He smiles at first, but then his face falls. "That girl from yesterday?" He contemplates for a long time, rewinding in his brain to remember what she looked like. Or that's what I'm guessing. "Yea. I forgot to tell you. I don't date redheads." With a groan he turns over, like he's escaping.

Is he pouting? "…but… you are a redhead." That's not even who I meant either.

He looks over his shoulder at me. "Last time I checked, yes." When I step closer he grabs me and pulls me onto the couch. I fit perfectly in his arms which embarrasses me a little. "Go out with me instead of Riku." This is the first time he's been so close to me. I notice the marks on his cheeks for the first time… tattoos?

Then what he said hits me and I blush. "It's a little late for that now…"

Immediately he knows what I mean, which lights my cheeks on fire even more. "You guys already fucked!?" He practically yells it and I bury my face in the couch cushion. This is like torture from embarrassment! "I knew that's what you were doing last night! Damn!" He sits up so suddenly it startles me and I look up. "Well maybe I don't care." His hands are on me.

I nearly jump out of my skin, "Wait a minute!" I grab at my pants as he tries to pull them down. I can't tell if he's playing or being serious. "Axel! I said no! Stop trying to take my clothes off!"

"You heard him." A deep voice moves into the room and I freeze. Even Axel stops attacking me to look up. Leon's standing, looking at us with a cocked eyebrow. "What are you doing to that poor kid?" The strong determined hands let me go and I sit up this time, scrambling out of his reach. The tall brunette just shakes his head. "You're lucky Riku isn't here. He's already mad at you. I'm the one that'll suffer when he's yelling at you. You'll both come complain to me and I need to tell you… if that happens… don't bother."

I sit back down beside Axel as if nothing happened. "That's okay. He was just joking." I turn to the redhead. "You were just joking, right?" He squints at me in confusion. Maybe not… I try to ignore it. "Here, what about this." I pull out my phone and bring up the picture of Roxas again. Handing it to him he examines it for a few minutes.

"You look cute with blonde hair." He smiles.

Smacking him with the pillow I snatch my phone back. "That's not me dummy! That my friend. He'll be here tomorrow." He realizes I haven't said anything about this to them. I look at Leon with a guilty face. "He's only staying to a couple days. He lives out of town. Is that okay?"

Walking over to me he just pats me on the head, ruffling my hair a little. "Have fun." Then he's gone, just like that. These guys… I swear… they're all the same.

In the mean time Axel is looking at my phone. When did he take it back? "Hey! That's mine." I reach for it and he pulls away a little. Grabbing his shoulder I get on my knees to peak at the phone. He's still looking at the picture of Roxas. It's a good picture of him; he has a big smile like he'd just been laughing about something.

He's already forgotten he just asked me out. "Is he single?"

I snicker a little. "I believe so. I just talked to him today actually but forgot to ask. He usually tells me though." I sit down beside him again. "It'll be challenging. He's a picky guy."

"Challenge accepted." He doesn't even look at me when he says it. "Oh I like this one." He holds the phone up to show me the image Riku took of me this morning.

"! Don't look at those!" I try to take my phone and end up just scrambling around him after it.

He's still looking through. "Hello. You already have one of Riku too." He nods a little. "He's hot, I'll give him that."

My embarrassment seems to peak and I tackle him, knocking us both to the floor. He drops my phone and I scuttle after it, snatching it up. He looks up at me in confusion, like I couldn't possibly have been the one who knocked him off the couch. "You shouldn't look through other people's pictures!"

Collecting himself he sits back and ruffles his hair, as if it needs fixed. I think his style is some form of messy bed head anyways. "I'm bored. Play with me." He frowns like a puppy that's been waiting to play all day. Where did this random change come from!?

"What are you saying?" I frown back, trying to be uncute but he tackles me to the floor. Suddenly I'm getting tickled as his fingers move along my side and I burst into laughter. "Stop! I hate getting tickled!" I hate it because I'm practically ticklish everywhere and in a few seconds I'm about to cry from laughing so hard. "Plleeaaase stop." I can hardly beg for this to end through each fit of giggles. "Axel!"

He pulls away and I collapse, breathing heavily, like he's killed me. "Alright! Go play on your own then. I'll just sit here… alone… lonely… and bored." He scrambles up onto the couch again.

He's curled up so pathetically that when I finally sit up I immediately give in. He looks so lonely… "Okay, fine! Let's do something." Of course his attitude magically melts into happiness as he jumps to his feet. I knew that would happen.

"I'll put some clothes on!" Walking past me I follow him up the stairs towards his room. When he opens the door I stand in the doorway, watching him walk in. This is my first chance to look around his room. I almost laugh when I see how messy it is. He's the complete opposite of Riku. Even the bed is disheveled and all he did was sleep in it. Unintentionally a little snicker escapes my lips.

The moment my eyes are closed he grabs my face, pinching my cheeks. "What's so funny?" I open them again and he's in jeans but still shirtless.

Ouch! Pinching hurts! "Noshing!" I try to say but it's muffled from my cheeks being smashed by his fingers. "Dat huuuuuts!" I pull away and it makes him pinch more. "Owww…" Deciding to stop escaping I just stand and pout.

He lets me go, laughing. "Sorry. I couldn't let go there for a second. You made a really cute face." He's still giggling as he digs a shirt out of his closet, pulling it on. It's a black tank-top that just makes you wanna see his muscles even more. "Okay let's go." He rushes past me, grabbing my wrist so I end up being dragged down the stairs. We go straight out the front door and down the sidewalk towards campus. He pulls his cell out even though I don't remember him even putting it in his pocket in the first place. With one hand in his pocket and the other at his ear I end up just walking beside him, listening to his conversation. "Hey!" There's a short pause and he laughs. "No, not really. I'm walking towards campus. You wanna meet up?" Another short pause. "Yea, bring it, it's been a while." He laughs again but all I can hear is the voice buzzing through the phone. "Of course I'll share my bed with you." He laughs even harder before hanging up.

What was that!? I accidentally stop and stare at him and he looks at me, catching my glance before I turn away. I think I'm blushing… why the hell am I blushing? Because I just listened to him make a sex date? Is that what just happened?

His hand touches my shoulder. "What's wrong Sora?" He bends to look at me with a suspicious smile as he waggles his eyebrows. "You want some too?"

"WHAT! No!" I shove his face away and we spend the next few minutes in some sort of awkward fight that I can't seem to figure out. However it started he ends up tickling me again and I give up. I hate being tickled!

He just smiles, like he knows what I'm thinking. "You only hate being tickled because you're ticklish everywhere. It's so easy." He laughs to himself as we walk onto campus.

Calming down I realize how nice it is outside. Campus is conveniently close to the house so the walk is pretty quick and even if it's raining I think I'll enjoy it. I hate snow, but it hardly snows here so that's not a huge problem. This year I won't need a car again. It's a weight off my mind. I'll just bug Kairi to take me everywhere like always. Axel cuts the corner sharper than I expect and I chase after him, unable to stop when someone suddenly appears in my path. I smash into them and fall on my ass.

"Are you okay?" When I open my eyes there's a hand ready to help me up. I accept and am on my feet again, rubbing my butt. The voice came from the guy I just ran into. He's about my height with short blue hair covering one eye a little.

"Sorry." I smile. "That was my fault. I wasn't watching where I was going." Glancing to the right I notice Axel is embracing a thin blonde with a large case in his hand. Maybe an instrument? Their hug is so energetic and awkward that I can't seem to look away.

The other boy follows my gaze. "You came with Axel, right? You must be friends."

I laugh, a little embarrassed that I haven't even introduced myself. He obviously came with the guy Axel is chatting with. "Yea, I just moved into their house. I'm the new roommate. Sora." It's a little too late to offer a handshake.

He doesn't seem to mind and cracks a small smile. "That's cool. It would be pretty fun to live there…" He makes a face before looking at Axel. "Those guys are crazy though, so it might be scary living there too." He looks back at me.

I can't not laugh. "I agree."

The other two join us and Axel jumps in. "We're heading back to the house. You guys coming?"

The blonde shoves the redhead aside when he sees me. "You're the new roommate." He grabs my hand and shakes it with surprising excitement. "You're really cute. I'm glad a good looking guy moved in this year." I'm so confused by this statement I say nothing. "My names Demyx. This guy is Zexion, but you can call him Zex. He like that."

"Shut up. I hate that name." The blue haired boy retorts, slapping the blonde's hand away before it can touch his hair.

"Let's go. My mouth is getting impatient!" Axel yells.

My face lights up a nice shade of red. Is he saying what I think he's saying? "I'll…. catch you guys later. I have something to do before I head back." I couldn't even think of a logical excuse so I just turn and walk off. When no one runs up to me I think I'm free but suddenly a hand touches my shoulder. I jump out of my skin and let out a little peep.

Turning to my attacker I realize it's the blue haired boy, Zexion. He immediately apologizes when he sees my reddened face, but he's smiling. "I didn't mean to scare you. The other two left and I'm heading over to see an art project going up today. I just wanted to know if you wanted to see it before you go do… whatever it is your doing." He shrugs.

A non-threatening approach. It calms me down a little and I feel the blood leave my blushing cheeks. "What kind of art project?"

He smiles suspiciously. "That was a lie, wasn't it? You didn't have anything to do." I turn away and he knows it's true. He's a good guesser! "You're funny. Those guys are just going back to the house to sing. Demyx brought his guitar with him."

I'm completely baffled by the reality of that statement. I did notice the blonde carrying a large case. So it was a guitar? "Oh, ha, right." I swear… Axel… my mouth is impatient. He talks like a pervert. "So what about this art thing?"

He shakes his head but allows me to change the subject. "I think it's some sort of mural or something for the school. That girl, Namine, is putting it up today."

"Namine?" I sift the name through my head; I'm sure I've heard it somewhere before. I think she might be a friend of Kairi's or something. I've heard a lot about her at school but I've never met her. "Sure, I'll go with you to see it. She's pretty popular here right?"

"Yea, the teachers really love her stuff. She's only a third year I think. Not even a senior yet." He sounds impressed but I shouldn't make assumptions after that last accident. We walk together to where he thinks it is and find a large crowd around one of the buildings. Wow, not at all what I was expecting. Pushing through some people to get up to the front I look around. There's only one girl beyond the crowded circle. Her hair is almost a glowing blonde and she's wearing a white dress. It's covered in paint splatter and she has a brush in her hand. There are several other guys in the area helping put up all the heavy stuff. I guess they're helping her set up and she's just painting touch ups because they're all a little paint splattered too. I can't tell what's drawing the crowd… the girl's art… or the fact that all her helpers are buff shirtless guys. Wait… I actually recognize some of them! A tall blonde and another tan guy with very orange hair tied in a bandana are constructing a wood frame. They look just like Tidus and Wakka… wait! That is Tidus and Wakka! I haven't seen them since middle school… they're huge! Am I the only one that hasn't gotten taller… this is annoying. They're laughing like they always use to but I can tell they're working hard. I didn't realize at some point Zexion had disappeared. He must have had something to do.

Out of the corner of my eye I see the gleam of silver hair. Glancing over I find a tall shirtless guy with his hair pulled back into a messy ponytail. I'd recognize those broad shoulders anywhere! "Riku!" Running to the edge of the crowd he's closest to I call his name again and he turns. His crystal blue eyes smile at me. He excuses himself for a second and walks up to me. I smile. "I didn't know this is what you'd be doing today."

He smirks in his usual sexy way. "Yea, helping set up mostly. I didn't think I'd see you until I got home." He gently rubs a soft thumb across my cheek. Without thinking he leans in and gives me a soft kiss on the forehead. The girls around us squeal and my face ignites again. Stupid blush! Stop that! He smiles, almost embarrassed but not quite. "Sorry. I forgot… there are a lot of eyes around today."

I clear my throat, looking up at him. "That's alright. I don't mind if they know." His gaze is so intense I have to look away, focusing shyly on my hands. "If you'd told me what you were doing today I definitely would have come to see you. I wouldn't miss a chance to see sweaty shirtless Riku." Looking up again I snicker a little. "Especially the paint spattered Riku. It's a nice look." I rub my hand across his chest but the paint has already dried. How odd.

He's just watching me and takes my hand. "I better get back to work. The sooner we finish the sooner I can see you." Leaning forward smoothly his lips meet mine for a rough kiss. Another squeal erupts around us but it feels so nice I melt into the kiss until he pulls away, releasing my hand. "See you later." He turns to get back to work and I blush, alone with a bunch of girls staring at me. I can hear them all whispering. What is it with girls…?

Should I escape or try to say hi to Wakka and Tidus? Damn! I can't just leave after seeing them over there… I gather my courage to push through all the giggling girls. Finally I make my way towards the two and part from the crowd. "HEY!"

They were bickering about something and turn to look at me. I can tell they recognize me right away because their faces light up. "Sora!" They drop what they were doing… though it kind of looked like they weren't doing anything. Of course now the whole crowd is watching me curiously.

Tidus pulls me into an awkwardly sweaty hug. "I haven't seen you in so long! You're still so short!" Wakka laughs because he obviously agrees.

"Hey, shut up. I haven't gotten a growth spurt yet okay. I'm gonna get taller." I hate when people call me short… it's almost unavoidable when all your friends are taller than you. "You guys are so big now. Did you both start working out or something?"

Wakka nods. "It's all for blitzball. You know we both play and our training is pretty intense." For some reason I get the feeling he's checking himself out.

"Do you go to school here?" Tidus interrupts Wakka's flexing.

"Yea, it's my second year here. Do you guys go to school nearby?" I know it's a good question because I would have seen them way sooner if they'd been at school with me last year. We're in the middle of talking about their school when they get yelled at for not working. We all agree to hang out another time and I give them my cell so they can both put their numbers in. Texting both of them my number I get shunned away by the art girl who finally got tired of me distracting her crowd. She actually follows me out of the area.

"Hey, wait. Before I force you to leave for being such a bother… do I know you from somewhere?" Now that I'm looking at her face I realize she's very pretty.

I raise an eyebrow. "I've never met you before. I think you know my friend though. Kairi."

She lights up when I say her name. "You're Kairi's friend! That's so exciting! I love Kairi!" She actually hugs me which scares me a little bit. Why did she say she loves Kairi and then hug me? "She's shown me a picture of you before. That's why I thought you looked so familiar." I just nod because what can I say in this situation… besides 'why did she show you my picture'. That might sound a little rude though. "Thanks for coming to see my project. I'm sorry I have to make you leave. You're kind of distracting my guys though." She waves goodbye and runs back through the crowd.

Well… that was odd…

I pull out my phone and dial my good friend. "Hello?"

"Sora? What's up?" Her voice greets me.

"I just met one of your friends… Namine…" Immediately she laughs like she's been caught red handed. "She told me she loved you and hugged me… why did that happen?"

"Oh, hahahha. No reason." She actually hangs up.

WHAT THE HELL KAIRI! Maybe I should go to her house and make her tell me. What could she have told some upper classman about me? And for that reaction? Then again she must have just seen me talking to Riku. And that kiss… seems like everyone saw that… I pat my cheeks with each hand to keep from blushing. Then I can't keep my brain from thinking about kissing and I blush anyhow! Kissing Riku… it feels so nice. His warm lips… they're always so gentle and soft. And kissing seems to lead to… "Ah!" I let out a yell that not only startles me, but scares anyone close enough to hear. I hear several snickers. It's hard to walk home alone when so many people my age live around school too. I try to look at the sidewalk the rest of the way.

When I'm close to home I start hearing this strange sound. It's almost like someone has their music turned up really loud and has the window open so it'll echo down the street. When I'm close enough to see the porch I realize… the noise is definitely coming from inside. The front door is wide open so I walk right in.

The guitar Demyx brought over is plugged into an amp in the living room I hadn't even known was there. He's standing in front of it as he plays, making the notes scream through the house. To my astonishment I can hear Axel singing loudly as he stands on the couch, his feet on the cushions. I didn't know he could sing. Sometimes I even catch the sound of another language I don't recognize since I don't really know any myself. The blonde guitarist looks up and notices me by the doorway. Swiftly he turns down the volume on the amp and Axel stops, glancing around in confusion.

"Oh, hey, you're home." The both greet me with smiles. Axel seems to notice I'm frozen. "You wanna hear a song? This is your first time hearing one right?" I'm sure he means hearing him sing but it is my first time listening to someone I know play the guitar. Even if I just met him.

I unfreeze myself and move towards the couch. "Yea! You guys sound amazing!"

So Axel climbs down off the couch to stand in front of me. "Play your favorite." He tells his friend who immediately laughs.

"Are you planning on dancing?" He snickers, but gets ready anyhow.

I watch the redhead shrug. Now I'm really curious! I'm poised on the couch like a two year old grabbing my feet in excitement. When Demyx starts playing the guitar is quiet and slow, but quickly picks up as Axel begins to sing. I can hear him really well now and his voice is surprisingly enchanting. He actually starts dancing, a dance I can only imagine seeing in a sexy music video with a bunch of guys dancing all as one. I'll admit… watching a bunch of hot singers dancing in sync kind of makes me excited… But with Axel dancing in front of me his eyes are so intense, like he's singing to me; it flatters me and scares me at the same time. When the song ends I feel like I need to clap so I do and Axel bows. Demyx ruffles his own hair and laughs, a little embarrassed.

I decide to direct all questions toward the blonde. Axel's looking at me like if I give him another compliment he might kiss me. "How long have you guys been doing this? Obviously you've practiced." I laugh. It definitely wasn't like practicing for some school thing.

He thinks for a minute. "Hm, well we must have started in high school… so… wow, probably like six years. That's longer than I thought." He looks at Axel who nods, equally surprised. "What did you think? Everyone that hears Axel sing falls in love with him."

Like an idiot I start laughing. "That's funny. He does have a nice voice." And I can't say it wasn't fun to watch him move around.

A door opens down the hall and Leon comes into the living room. He points at Demyx. "Times up. Go back to being your usual level of annoying." He smiles at me before retreating back to his room. Without question the blonde turns off the amp.

That was odd. "You have a time limit?"

Axel scoffs. "Yea, but that's better than not playing at all." He moves towards the kitchen.

Demyx seems to agree. "It's usually around an hour, which is plenty of time so Axel doesn't hurt his throat. Considering I usually just show up at random and we never have a planned time, I think Leon puts up with us rather than being a complete ass like most roommate." He packs up his guitar. "I think he's a nice guy."

Returning from the kitchen with a beer, Axel hands one to Demyx. "Did you want anything Sora?" He takes a drink before moving to sit down.

"Ah, no, I'm fine. I'll be upstairs." Before I can get sucked into spending the rest of the day with them I run up to my room. My stomach growls at me a little, telling me I'm starving. It would be nice if I could eat with Riku. Maybe I'll take a shower first so I can procrastinate until he gets home. That's a good idea. Grabbing my towel and bath crap I head to the bathroom.

Turning on the light and shutting myself in I set everything in the tub, noticing all the different shampoos and body washes already lined up. One set for each guy I can assume. I wonder if I should leave my stuff in here too? Maybe I'll ask first so I know which is which. For now a shower. Pulling off my shirt I drop it to the ground and fumble to unclasp my crown necklace. The door swings open and my eyes widen at the surprise intrusion.

"I figured it had to be you in here." Riku smiles, shutting the door again. "Axel was in the living room so you're the only other person that uses this bathroom."

I catch my breath from that scare. "You scared me to death!"

"Taking a shower?" I notice he's covered in sweat as he pulls off his T-shirt. I guess he couldn't walk home half naked but I appreciate seeing him take off his clothes again.

"Oh, yea, I was about to get in." I finally get my necklace off and lay it next to the sink.

Turning away he starts the water and pulls the shower curtain closed. "You wanna shower together?" His voice sends little shivers down my spine.

I turn away so he doesn't see me blushing but I realize he can see me in the mirror. AH! My face is like a cherry. No one has ever asked me that before. Especially not a hot guy I just slept with. I search for an answer as I unbutton my pants.

"I'll take that as a yes." Taking off his clothes in two seconds he glances at me before getting in, hiding behind the curtain.

I can only see his outline now. Gah, this is so perverted and embarrassing and exciting and stressful all at once. I let my pants fall to the floor, pulling my feet out slowly. If I get in he's definitely going to touch me. We'll probably have sex again… I've never had shower sex before. Or am I just assuming we'll do it again and he's just wanting to take a normal shower…? Why am I even freaking out!? Am I a girl or something…? I'm so dumb!

Getting undressed I bite my lip and join him in the shower. I must be making a mean face or something because he gives me a weird look. "Is everything okay?"

Now I can't stop myself from pouting. The water pouring over him just makes him look tastier. "I forgot to ask. Which stuff is yours?" I completely avoid answering him. He points in the general area and I happened to already place my things next to his. We switch places and I close my eyes as the water runs through my hair. I always liked the feeling of a hot shower. It calms me down.

"Sora." I'd almost forgotten Riku was in front of me. His hand slide around my waist and I feel my body press against his. The sensation of skin to skin under water turns me on, but I try to focus on something else. He's whispering softly into my ear and it makes me shiver. "I saw the way you were looking at me earlier. Now you're being shy. Did something happen?"

We've moved so the shower is pouring onto my back, keeping me warm. I try to resist hiding in his collar bone… or nibbling on it. "Nothing's wrong." One of his hands slides across my ass, rubbing on me suddenly. I let out a whimper before I can stop myself. Unintentionally I push on his chest and he stops.

Both of our bodies are already reacting to his touch, but he lets me go. "You don't want me to touch you? I won't, if that's what you want." He's so honest and I'm sure it's hard for him to resist when I'm naked right in front of him.

His eyes are genuinely caring. What am I being so afraid of? "No… it's okay. I'm sorry… I was jumping to conclusions again." Gingerly I take his hands and wrap them around me again. "I want you to touch me."

This time he leans down and kisses me, pulling me away from the water when it starts to splash into our faces. His fingers tease me again and this time I let out my moan into his mouth. My hands slide between us and I can feel him getting hard at my touch. He's already inside me with his fingers when I pull away. "Switch with me." He moves under the water and I kneel on the floor in front of him. He's so quiet when I lick him, but I can tell with every touch he's enjoying it. One arm up on the wall, he's leaning against it, trying to block the water from me and having trouble doing anything besides closing his eyes. Opening my mouth I eat him up, sucking lightly on him little by little. I hear his voice more as I play with him, sliding my tongue over him while he's in my mouth.

"Wait. Stop." He helps me to my feet and kisses me. "Sorry, but I want to come inside you again." I just nod and suddenly he pulls me up into his arms. I wrap my legs around him and as we're kissing he pushes his fingers inside. There's no need for the warmth of the water anymore, now I'm just hungry for his touch. When he's satisfied my moans are loud enough, he parts our kiss and sets me down. Turning me around he bends me over and I can feel him rub against me. Slowly pushing inside he grabs my hips and starts to fuck me with rough dominance, like he didn't have me enough last night. My hands grasp the tile wall for support as he thrusts into me, pulling loud moans from my throat. Since his hands are on my hips I use one hand to stroke myself, keeping up with his fast pace until I can't hold it in anymore. Good thing we're in the shower because I'm covered in him again.

The water has already gone cold, but he tries to warm it again. My legs are a little shaky but he lets me lean against him until I'm ready to stand on my own. "I like getting dirty first. Taking a shower together is much more interesting than alone." Moving me under the water I start to soak my hair again.

I feel much better already I decide as I wash my hair. "It's lonely showering alone maybe."

He's lathering me up and leaning in for little kisses. "I wanted you earlier too. The way you looked at me made me want you right then. And when you were talking to Wakka and Tidus… I wanted to show them you're mine." He sighs. "Then Namine chased you off."

I can't think of anything to say so I rinse myself off and help him clean up, enjoying exploring his body. When we're finally getting out and drying off I watch Riku dry his hair and smile. "You're a very honest person when you're with me. I can tell." I sit down on the edge of the tub with a towel around my waist.

He glances at me with that smile and continues what he's doing. "How can you tell?"

"I think…" I pause for a long time, listening to him ruffling his towel. "I think I might be in love with you." Somehow I feel completely calm about telling him this, as if he should already know.

Straightening up he shakes his hair out. It looks sexy when it's wet and messy. With a sigh he walks towards me, bending over to kiss me. "Then I think we might be the same. When you really want to tell me, I'll give you a real answer." Kissing me on the temple he gathers both of our things and opens the door.

Did he just inadvertently admit that he loves me too without saying it? I want to tell him… so I can hear him say it, but after that first statement I just don't have any courage left. Walking to Riku's room I grab my clothes and head to my own to change. I only have the chance to pull on some short when I hear Leon yell from downstairs.

"Sora! Someone's here to see you!"

"OKAY!" I yell through the door before opening it and heading down. A smile breaks over my lips when I see Roxas in the doorway. "Roxas!" I crash into his arms making him drop his bag on the floor. "I thought you weren't coming until tomorrow."

He hugs me back and takes a moment to look me over. "I decided to surprise you. You look… exactly the same." He bursts into laughter.

"Shut up! So are you!" I snatch his bag off the ground. What a jerk. We're still exactly the same height and he's just as skinny as me. Our biggest difference is only that he's blonde and wears a lot of weird checkered clothes. I never understood his obsession with that checker pattern. Carrying his back upstairs I lead the way to my room. "Do you have anything else you want to bring in?"

He follows me like he's been here before. "Nope, just that bag and my backpack."

I walk into my room and set his bag on the floor but when I turn around I realize he's not behind me. "Roxas?" Peeking out the door I see him by the stairs talking to Axel. The redhead is whispering about something. I'm about to call him when suddenly… Axel kisses him. My eye bulge in shock.

A second later Roxas shoves the larger boy off, punching him in his shoulder. "What the hell do you think you're doing!?" Axel stumbled down a few stairs from the shove but catches himself on the railing. "Don't ever take something that wasn't given! And who the hell are you anyways!?" I should have known. The little blonde is practically smoking from his ears in frustration.

Walking up beside him I place a firm hand on his shoulder and he calms down. Peaking over the rail I shake my head at Axel. "I should have warned you, he's feisty." I turn to Roxas. "I should have told you… I live with beasts. They'll try and take anything they want." I shake my head and turn back to my bedroom. This time he follows me.

As I walk through the doorway I hear Riku laughing. "Smooth move."

"Like you can talk…" He barks back. "Wait! Roxas!" We both turn when we hear him bounding up the stairs.

The blonde looks at me. "Why does he say my name like he knows me?" His eyes are so accusing me of something right now…

"I have no idea." I shrug and look away because I can't lie right now without laughing.

Roxas scoffs at me and moves into the hall just a few steps.

"One last thing. I promise I won't kiss you this time." Slowly Axel moves forward to whisper something to him. I notice Roxas stiffen and when the redhead heads back downstairs he turns to me again, blushing. He slams the door looking bemused.

"What did he say?" I raise an eyebrow.

He looks up at me like he's just realized I'm here. "Nothing." He blushes again. "So this is your new house." Looking around the room I just watch him, shaking my head. "It looks nice considering you haven't been here long."

"Avoiding the topic isn't going to make me less curious." I cross my arms but I guess I'll let him get past this one for once. He just got here after all. "We can hang your clothes in the closet. I still have extra room." I wait for him to open it before I help out. He wouldn't care if I dug through his stuff but I just wanted to give him a second. When we finish I feel like I don't know what to say but he's my oldest friend… I don't usually suffer in silence for long. "Roxas?" I sit on the bed.

He's finishing up hanging the last shirt. "Hm?"

"Have you ever felt like… even though you just met someone… you've known them your whole life?" His eyes meet mine in a silent understanding.

He smirks a little. "Are you feeling like that with these guys?"

Somehow he's always been able to guess what I'm thinking. Secretly he must be my clone or something. Or maybe I'm his clone. Nah. "Yea, kind of. I mean it's been two days now and it feels like I've been here… I dunno. Way longer."

He frowns at me. "The master of description, like usual." I just shrug. Sighing in understanding he comes to sit beside me on the bed. "Well, when we met we were friends right away."

"That's a little different, don't you think." Hugging my knees I turn so I can still see him.

"No, not really." Busying himself with unknotting his shoes he continues. "Maybe we knew each other in a past life or something. Maybe we were all friends then too. Even those guys. Maybe that's why that redhead attacked me." His shoes fall to the ground with a loud thunk.

I guess I never thought of that before. "A past life? That seems kind of cliché don't you think?"

His face tells me otherwise. "It's whatever you think, isn't it?" Now he's just being stubborn. "I mean… it's not like you had sex, right?" In surprise I turn away but it was too quick because he gets suspicious. I try to hide my face. "Sora! You man slut!" He jumps on me on the bed.

"I couldn't help myself! He was just there! And he kept telling me how much he wanted me. And I just gave in!" With a little sigh I lay back on the bed, ignoring Roxas half on top of me trying to irritate me. "I'm not in high school anymore. I don't care about dating. I don't want to spend weeks just kissing and nothing happening. That's just frustrating." Roxas ends up sitting up while I'm talking. "I like everything how it is, even if it was a little surprising."

"Oh really?" A voice echoes from the door.

Roxas and I both jump in surprise but a moment later I realize Riku is standing in the doorway. Did he hear everything I just said!? The blonde beside me turns to look at me. "Whoa… is that him?" He waggles his eyebrows.

"H-h-h-h-how long have you been standing there?" He opened the door so quietly I didn't even notice.

He walks into the room without answering the question. Holding out his hand he actually takes Roxas's hand to greet him. How polite. "I'm Riku, nice to meet you."

The blonde looks taken aback by the approach. "Roxas."

He takes a step back. "I saw how you handled Axel. Nice job. He's basically harmless; you just have to be direct with him. He's not really good at getting hints."

He joins us on the bed and I sit up beside him. "Roxas this is my… um… my boyfriend."

Without trying to hide it he glances down at his crotch before checking him out. I want to slap the smile right off his face. "I can see why."

"Can't you at least try and be discreet about it. Geez Roxas!" I attack his sides with the intention of tickling and he almost collapses into laughter.

Riku observes us with a soft smile. "You two are very alike. It's refreshing." We both stop and stare at him. I guess our eyes piercing through him make him think he needs to explain himself. "It's nice having laughter around. It gets kind of tense with just the three of us." He clears his throat. "Anyhow, I wanted to talk to you for a minute. Your friend can stay or wait outside if he wants, I don't care."

He's giving me the opportunity to decide. "Can you wait outside the door for a second Roxas?" Without arguing the blonde stands up, giving me a wink. "What did you need to tell me?"

Reaching down he takes my hands in his. "Classes will be starting soon." His eyes linger on mine, watching my reaction. "I imagine you'll be busy getting ready tomorrow. I'll be busy too. And you'll have your friend to show around. You should focus on that before worrying about spending time with me."

I blink a few times. Even though I know he's right I hate to admit it. "Then you won't be home much again tomorrow?" Slowly I nod and look down at his hands for a minute. He's probably right. It will be easier to get ready for classes and show Roxas around without having to constantly worry about where Riku might pop up. I know the feeling of getting anxious hoping to catch someone for the single hour of the day you might be free. "Alright." I can't really think of anything to say that would make me feel better without agreeing.

"Don't be upset. You live here now so we can spend time together whenever you want." His hand caresses my cheek to keep my attention.

I nod once but make a face. "It can't be helped." For a long moment he simply stares at me, like he's hoping for more. I say nothing. Eventually he gives me a kiss on the cheek, standing up and heading towards the door. He leaves the door ajar and Roxas pops in a moment later. "Well, I guess we should go explore the campus tomorrow. We'll get that out of the way first so I can worry about my classes after."

He nods slowly. "Sounds good to me." Somehow he avoids questioning me and completely avoid my few minutes of moodiness as we get ready for bed. I turn the light out and climb into bed. He brought his own pillow but we can share a blanket like we have ever since childhood.

I hear Roxas turn towards me, a smile in his voice. "You think he's jealous of me being in bed with you?"

"Who, Riku?" I don't bother turning over. "I seriously doubt he'd be jealous of you."

He snorts. "Are you saying I'm not threatening?"

This time I roll onto my back. "Me with you is almost the same as me being with myself." He just snorts and I start laughing. "So if you like the campus, do you think you'd move here or something? Maybe transfer all your credits?"

"Maybe. It just depends."

"Depends on what?"

"…we'll see…" mysterious, as usual. At least when it comes to something he wants.

I turn towards him. "Roxas… what exactly did Axel say to you earlier?"

He almost chokes on nothing. "What do you mean?"

"You turned around and you were red. Obviously he said something." Reaching over I shake him, ending up shaking us both. "You can't hide it forever!"

He puts up with the abuse. "You wanna bet!" Of course when I let go he decides to give in. He's the worst at keeping secrets. "He mostly surprised me. I mean some random guy I don't know. He kisses me in the middle of the hallway… which wasn't that terrible really. Then he slips his tongue in! So I shoved him off." He pauses for a moment, as if he might continue, but remains silent.

"Roxas!?"

"Okay! Okay… he said… he said… AH! Shut up, Sora! Stop asking me questions!" I pounce on him and we wrestle for ten minutes before I win the scuffle. "Okay! Alright! That hurts! Let go and I'll tell you!" I lay down again, waiting impatiently. "He said… he's met me in his dreams and we're destined to be together. It was really embarrassing to be told that when I just met him. Right?"

Even my face is a little red from hearing it. "Yea… I asked him if he liked girls today and all he said was 'I don't date redheads'. That doesn't exactly tell you what type he likes, does it…" I should have asked a more useful question. Actually… I never did tell Kairi about that. Oops. I grab my phone to text her a less rude version of his phrase. Like 'he's not into girls'… she'll just shrug if I say it like that. Good idea.

"I saw him sitting on the couch with a guy when I walked in. They were watching TV."

I glance at him in the light of my phone and he's half buried in his pillow. "That was just Demyx. He plays guitar but you missed it today. They were probably just watching TV hanging out since Leon told them to stop playing." As soon as my text is sent I receive a reply. It just says, 'I knew it'. That kind of makes me laugh.

"Leon is the guy that answered the door, right?"

"Yup." Setting my phone down I snuggle under the blankets again, getting back to the Axel topic. "He's not seeing anyone that I know of. Why… are you interested in him or something?"

"No!" His retort is almost too fast and I snicker. "Go to sleep. Good night!" He rolls away from me and falls silent. I bet he's blushing again. Getting comfortable I end up falling asleep without realizing I'd even been tired.

Opening my eyes I stare up at the ceiling feeling groggy from sleep. I had a really strange dream. I was searching for Riku and when I found him it was like I'd been searching for months. He was in a long black cloak with the hood hiding his face, but I knew it was him. Honestly it kind of felt like a video game… and I have an odd sword that looked kind of like a key. With a sigh I sit up to look at the clock. It's already after ten but it's so dark in the room I think about sleeping a little longer. Then I realize the bed is empty beside me. Roxas is missing?

Getting up I head towards the bathroom, startled by the sunlight in the hallway. So bright! I shield my eyes, squinting and groaning as I walk. Then I hear a noise… the sound of voices. They sound suspiciously familiar.

"Nnnnnn, yea… right there…" I'm wide awake and pinning myself against Axel's door. That's definitely Roxas's voice! What's happening! "Ouch! Be gentle… ooooh that's better… Ahhhhhh." What's going on? I crush my ear against the wood hoping to understand… or maybe morph through it to see what's happening. It sounds like… the bed's creaking under their weight. Then I hear Axel's voice! Are they having sex! Throwing the door open my mouth drops. I almost fall over when I see Roxas laying no his stomach on the bed getting a back massage. "You did that on purpose!"

"Oh, good morning Sora." Axel turns to look at me but continues massaging the skin beneath his dexterous fingers. Roxas whimpers again.

"Roxas." I scoff a little. "Can't you make this sound any less sexual?"

"I hope not." Axel snickers.

I slam the door. I seriously hope they don't get together just to tease me and play tricks. I'm annoyingly gullible and I can't seem to fix that problem… After showering and getting dressed I peak into Riku's room but he's already gone. A little disappointed I wait for Roxas and we head out after breakfast.

Unfortunately Riku was right. I feel like I'm running around for hours all day, showing Roxas around, getting books, and finishing everything I need for classes to start. I can't help but hope I'll turn some corner and run into him but I never do. The entire day disappears before I know it. The follow day is the same, sleeping, eating, running around. Even Kairi avoids popping up since she knows Roxas is around. It's strange not to see her at least once. She doesn't even text much.

Before I know it Roxas is already leaving and my first day of class already started. It's so hectic it runs by on auto pilot and I find myself collapsing onto my bed at the end of the day. Completely exhausted I fall asleep without dinner.

"Sora." A soft warm feeling rouses me from sleep. "Sora. Are you hungry?" Oh… they're lips. Soft kisses on my temple help me open my eyes. Crystal blue eyes greet me.

"Riku?" He leans down to kiss me on the lips and helps me sit up. "What time is it?"

"Dinner time if you're hungry." Somehow he helps me out of bed and I follow him silently downstairs. We're alone in the kitchen and my brain is still sleeping as I eat. My food disappears. I must have been really hungry. "You look exhausted. You've been busy."

I just nod. When I finish he takes my plate to the sink for me and I stand up, waiting for him so we can walk upstairs together. He joins me a moment later. "I had a dream about you."

"A good dream?"

"I was looking for you… I think it was a little sad. But then I found you and it was okay again." Most of the words come out as mumbles but I think he understands. Stumbling back into my own room I crawl into bed again, cuddling with my pillow. He kisses me on the cheek but pulls away. I turn and grab his wrist. He stops to look at me. "If you want, you can sleep in here with me." He smiles and says something before leaving the room. I'm sure he'll come back, but I'm just so tired I turn over. The blankets are so warm, like I'm floating in water. I feel the warmth of a body slide into bed behind me before falling asleep.