Hey everyone! I bring you the new chapter, but I have two things I want to say. First off, I want you to take a moment to thank my beta Super Beta Libb (a.k.a. SexyPants) for being able to balance senior project and having the time to do everything she does and beta for me. Also, a shout out to rpwehp12, NimayTheAirbender, blood as soft as silk, and SexyPants for reviewing the last chapter. You all make me smile when I read them. Without further delay, let's see how everyone is fareing!

Saving Axel

Chapter 13: Forgiveness

Roxas's POV

Why?

This question has been floating in my brain for the past week and has caused me to be a little bit more distant these days.

"Roxas!" I turned at the sound of my name. I saw Tidus holding hands with Yuna as the young girl smiled to me, "were heading out now, can you cover clean up?" I nodded quickly and he grinned.

"Take her somewhere nice, Tidus," I told him and he nodded as he held the door for her and left. I returned to washing the counter at the Café as my fellow employees headed off to enjoy the rest of their Saturday night. I had nothing else to look forward to at home so I volunteered to do clean up. I pulled out my head phones and iPod and plugged in one ear and continued to clean.

"I could be mean, I could be angry! You know I could be just like you…"

I hit the next button, not willing to listen to that song right now. It was Axel's favorite song by Three Days Grace and made me download it so when we sat on the tower he wasn't subjected to my music, which isn't as bad as he thinks. I really didn't want to think about him right now since I'm still pretty pissed with him. I hadn't seen him all week, probably avoiding me and I was okay with that.

"Who am I kidding?" I whispered to myself. I still loved the guy, but I didn't want to look at him at the same time; if this cleaner didn't smell so bad, I would have brought my head to the counter in depression.

I heard the door open again and I looked up suddenly to see Demyxstanding there nervously. He was dressed in concert attire, meaning he was dressed in a black shirt with his name on it and ripped up jeans. I can only assume he was either going to perform tonight or he already did. I looked down again and continued while I listened intently to the echo of his steps on the floor.

"Roxas~"

"We're closed," I interrupted. I didn't mean to be mean to Demyx, I really didn't, I just was a bit bitter about last Saturday with Demyx and Axel…kissing. Why would Axel do that to me? There's that damn question again!

"Can I just~"

"Demyx," I deadpanned, dropping the washcloth on the counter and looking him in the eyes, "I gotta clean up here so I can get home to make dinner for Sora and Leon, okay? Some other time." I turned from him and walked around the back to grab the dust pan. I came back moments later and he was looking at his feet sadly. I almost went to hug him, but the evil devil of anger inside me made me keep working. Eventually, when I was cleaning the crumbs under table seven, I heard the shuffling of his shoes out the door. I sat in a seat and brought my face to my hands and sat there for a little. I can't believe I lied to himabout being busy. I looked up suddenly when my phone vibrated on the wood of the counter, scaring me with the loud sound it produced. I got up and grabbed it.

"Hello?" I asked into the phone, not looking at who was calling.

"Roxas?" I sighed at the comfort that Sora's voice brought me.

"Yeah, what's up?" I asked as I relaxed into the wooden seat I was sitting in.

"Well, Riku invited me over to his house tonight and since I'm at the hospital right now, could you pack my overnight bag for me?" I told him I would and he thanked me as I hurriedly finished my work. Sora would visit the hospital everyday for a couple of hours and Leon spends almost every night. Basically, if Leon isn't working, he's there and if Sora isn't at school or with Riku, he's there. I would visit more often, but I have to work and someone has to keep the house warm for when the two rarely stay at home.

Oh, who am I fooling? I just don't want to see Yuffie because she can read me like a goddamn book most of the time and I'm definitely not telling her about my current issues…even if she hinted that she already knew.

I shivered against the cold of the early December wind and walked toward my house silently. I normally walk with music, but some pretty weird people come out Saturday nights. When I finally reached my house, I opened the door and locked it behind me and walked up the steps as Muffins followed me happily since she was alone all day.

"Okay, Sora would need…" I grabbed his duffle bag and threw in his night clothes and walked to his bathroom and grabbed his soap, shampoo, and his toothbrush. I knew Riku would lend a towel and a wash cloth. I went to his drawer and pulled out two pairs each of boxers and pants. I went to his closet and pulled out two shirts and folded them as I placed it in the bag as well. I grabbed his book bag too, because I had a pretty good feeling that he would wind up staying two nights knowing him. I walked down the stairs and fed Muffins as I attempted to make dinner for when Leon would get in, knowing he would have starved himself trying to get Yuffie to eat her food. I sat on the couch of the living room and stared blankly in front of me, waiting for Sora. Lucky for me, he showed up a few minutes later.

"Roxas?" he called into the dark house. I looked to him and he grinned stupidly as he grabbed the duffle and back pack, "You kicking me out two days in a row?" he laughed as I blinked unaffected. He looked down and shifted nervously.

"Don't you have to get to Riku's?" I asked, and he nodded. He turned to leave but hesitated and turned to me again.

"Leon is eating with Yuffie tonight, so I hope you don't get too lonely." I nodded and he left. The echo of the door lingered as I stared at the TV set quietly. I looked to Muffins who was patiently waiting by my feet for me to give her attention. I pet her head with a smile until she looked up to me while purring with those green eyes. I looked away suddenly and got up from the couch and grabbed my bag. I walked quickly into the kitchen and packed the bag with snacks and grabbed my phone and keys as I looked to the clock. I had to call Sephiroth soon, so I might as well call him while I walk.

I swung the bag over my shoulder as I grabbed my camera bag and bidding my farewell to Muffins. I opened the door and shut it right after and walked for about ten minutes before I brought the pre-dialed phone to my ear and listened to the ring. Once, twice, three times…

"Hello?" spoke the dark tone that was Sephiroth, my favorite uncle.

"Hey Uncle Seph, how ya been?" I asked using the best fake happy voice I could muster.

"Well, I just arranged a date with Zack since he's coming to visit for Christmas for two weeks. How about you?"

"I'm great, just a little stressed out from school, but I'm heading out to take some pictures," I told him as I crossed the deserted street walking toward the Station Tower.

"Okay, well I'll leave you be then. Have fun and I'll talk to you next week. Talk to you later, kid. Bye."

"Bye." I hung up as I started to walk up the stairs of the Station and weaved through the crowd and toward the ticket booth to wait in line. I looked around and watched the business men wander the large platform checking their watches. I watched with pity at the families wishing their loved ones a safe journey and glared in envy of the couples embracing after being apart so long. I wonder how many of them were faithful while the other wasn't around.

"Sir?" I turned from my thoughts and took out my wallet.

"One round trip ticket to the beach," I requested and she nodded. She was an elderly lady with white hair and her frail fingers danced upon the keyboard of her computer with practiced ease and the ticket printed out.

"You do know you'll have a little over an hour for the night," she explained as I took the ticket. I nodded and walked off quickly toward the third train. I turned my head and stared in wonder at the purple train only seen once a month: the train to Radiant Garden, Hollow Bastion.

Six years ago

I walked off the train with my parents holding my bags. My mother held my right hand as we stepped off the purple train. I looked up to my mother as my father went searching for my aunt and uncle.

"Mommy?" she looked down to me with a kind smile, her brown hair and eyes were always a comforting sight to me, "Why can't I go with you guys? I always have before!" I protested and she sighed.

"Roxas dear, we just want you to have some normalcy… some stability in your life. It's what we decided was best for you."I looked down to my feet as my mother quickly ran off to hug her sister, Yuffie.

"Oh! I'm gonna miss you, Tifa!" Yuffie squeezed her sister while my father shook hands with my uncle Leon. I looked to my cousin who was eight years old. I walked over and he hugged me and I hugged back half heartedly.

"I guess we're brothers from now on," he said when I pulled away. I nodded timidly and looked to my parents. They turned to me and I rushed into my mother, my head only reaching her waist. She kneeled down and hugged me closely as picked me up and spun me slightly until my father grabbed me into his strong, warm arms.

"We love you," he whispered into my ear. I nodded and felt the tears sting the corners of my eyes. He pulled me away and my mother kissed my cheek and told me the same thing. My dad kissed me and put me into my aunt's arms. They turned back toward the train and I stared after them with tears clouding my vision.

"Mommy…Daddy…" the whistle blew and the doors shut and I began to cry. My aunt brought my head onto her shoulder.

"Don't cry, baby," she cooed into my ear as she kissed my temple. "Grab his stuff, Leon. Come on, Sora. You can introduce him to Riku." I wrapped my arms tighter around Yuffie since she reminded me so much of my mother.

Present

I opened my eyes again and leaned forward as I massaged my temple to get rid of the memory. I looked out the window of the train at the lights illuminating the track as I willed the train to arrive at the beach faster. I remembered how a week ago Axel had told me we were gonna head to the beach soon, but I didn't want to think of him…or him lip locking with Demyx.

Damn…I was such a mess right now. I think I need someone to vent to.

XxXxXxXxXxXxXxX

Sora's POV

I knocked on Riku's door and waited patiently. He knew I was coming, so he shouldn't take too long, but I've been knocking on the door for the past ten minutes. Finally the door opened and a dripping Riku was standing there. He was dressed in boxers only and his hair stuck to his face since it seemed to be wet.

"So sorry; I just got out of the shower when I heard your knocking. How long have you been waiting?" he asked worriedly as brushed past him as I entered.

"About ten minutes," I answered as I placed my bag on the floor. I was about to walk forward when strong, warm arms wrapped around my waist.

"I guess I owe ten minutes of mine," he whispered seductively in my ear. I shivered and smirked.

"What if I don't want you?" I asked sarcastically and looked to see his face fall to a shocked one. I laughed, and his face hardened. He lifted me up onto his shoulder, my face looking to the ceiling. "RIKU!" I yelled as I squirmed, and he walked toward where I guessed his room was since I'd spent so much time here. He threw me down on his bed and hurriedly pinned me beneath him causing me to blush a deep shade of red.

"You know, you've been scarce lately, Sora," he practically purred my name in my ear. I shivered again and clenched my eyes shut. I felt him kiss my forehead, "I've been holding out, what are you gonna do to make it up to me?" he asked suggestively. I opened my eyes.

"I'll watch Saw IV." I decided and he grinned from ear to ear and climbed off me, "The lights better stay on!" I argued and he nodded and pulled me off the bed. He knew I hated horror movies, but he's been trying to get me to watch it for the longest time. He knew I wasn't ready for half the stuff he wanted to do with me, but maybe I might if I really relax this weekend.

XxXxXxXxXxXxX

Demyx's POV

"Zexion?" I asked weakly into the dark room my boyfriend slept in, well, I hoped was still my boyfriend. He only told me one thing after he heard about what Axel and I have been doing: Tell Roxas. I tried to today, but he just wouldn't hear it. Axel hasn't come out of his room all week and Zexion visited him more often than I did.

"Zex?" I tried again. I opened the door wide and dimmed the lights to find Zexion sprawled out on his bed in the weirdest position for a guy like him. He shifted again like he was having a bad dream, which I wouldn't put past the petite genius. I sat on the edge of his bed, knowing he was a light sleeper and would wake up soon at the pressure.

But he didn't.

That worried me.

I leaned in closer and he turned again.

"No…mom…dad, not her…" he mumbled quietly. I looked away sadly as I remembered this rarely happened, but has before. When Zexion was a little kid, his father would drink and he abused his mother in front of his eyes. I gently shook his arm.

"Zexion?" I asked, "Zexion?" I asked more urgently. Finally, my small friend sat up in bed suddenly, his brow slick with sweat as he looked to me confused for a minute. I stared into his lavender eyes that were full of fear, an emotion he almost never shows…much less any other emotion. He focused on me and his normal expressionless face returned.

"Did you tell Roxas?" he asked coldly. It's true he's angry with me and I understand why, but I won't lie when I say his unusual coldness hurts.

"He wouldn't listen…" I trailed off. There was silence for a few minutes as I sat on his bed dressed in my concert clothes and he sat in his sheets dressed in a white shirt and boxers probably. "When will you forgive me?" I asked suddenly. He looked to me and a rare smile graced his lips, even if it was tiny, but it was enough to make me feel so much better.

"You know why I'm angry; not because you kissed Axel or slept with him repeatedly," I cringed when he reminded me of what I let Axel do with me, "it's just the fact you gave in to what he thought he needed; what he wanted." Zexion placed a hand on my shoulder, "I'm angry because I understand why it happened, but Roxas just thinks he wasn't enough for Axel." I sighed and looked to the blue sheets and began to trace the patterns with my fingers.

"It's not really my story to tell," I answered and Zexion nodded.

"That's true. I just want you to apologize to Roxas, even if he doesn't understand." I nodded and Zexion scooted to the side and patted the spot beside him, "From now on, stick with me, or I'll kick your ass out onto the street." I laughed as I took my shirt and my pants off, leaving me in only boxers. I crawled in beside him and brought the sheets up and he laid his head on my bare chest as I kissed the top of his head repeatedly. I know now that no matter what Axel needs, I'm gonna deny him like I have been for a few years.

XxXxXxXxXxXxXxX

Axel's POV

I slit my wrist againand stared at the blood that started to pool there. Most would call me disgusting, but I really couldn't give a shit. I felt like shit. I dropped the knife and grabbed the stereo remote and turned up the scream-o louder and leaned back onto my pillow. I was hoping that if it was loud enough, I wouldn't hear their voices. I turned my head and looked at my backpack where a lone keychain sat against the black bag. It was a small little thing with my name on it that Roxas made me in his one class.

Roxas…

Damn, I'm such a fuck up!

I grabbed my knife again and positioned it over my other wrist and hesitated. I just wanted to apologize…to explain everything, but that guy wouldn't listen to me even if I tried. I bet he didn't even know I wasn't present all week. I touched the blade to my flesh and slid slowlyand closed my eyes.

She loves you, baby boy; it's just hard for her sometimes.

I miss you so much, Gram. You were one of the few in my family who actually loved me. I rolled over and felt drowsy and closed my eyes only to see her face.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, AXEL! YOU KILLED ME!

"I didn't, Mom!" I yelled into my pillow angrily as I felt the warm tears down my face.

XxXxXxXxXxXxXxX

Roxas's POV

I took another picture of the lone boat out at sea in the dark and checked it on my camera right after. I walked the beach barefoot in the surf taking pictures of random things I saw. I looked to my phone and decided it was about time to clean up shop if I wanted to catch the train home. I looked over to the pier and sighed, deciding I'd save it for another day. I trudged up the beach and when I reached the sidewalk I put on my shoes again and headed toward the station. I passed a few stores that were closing and decided that Sunset Hill might be a place to check out during the day. I finally made it up the stairs and into the station and I placed my ticket on the counter and boarded the train. I pulled my camera out of its bag again and went through the pictures, deleting some, but keeping others, careful not to stray into the pictures I took of Axel.

"Roxas?" I looked up at the mention of my name before I was tackled by a bear hug from Olette. I looked behind her to see Hayner and Pence also standing there, happy to see me. It had been a while since I really talked to them or even seen them. I was so busy with Axel…I almost totally forgot about them… damn, am I a horrible friend!

"Hey, Olette." I patted the girl on the back and she sat beside me while the guys sat across from me, "What were you guys doing here?" I asked, and Olette shook her head while Pence looked around nervously.

"Well," Hayner spoke up, "Seifer challenged me to a struggle match at the actual hill. I won of course, but that dick stole my bag!" he grumbled the end. I smiled apologetically. "But never mind the ass whooping I'm gonna dish out Monday, where have you been?" he asked me nicely. I smiled a bit.

"I was with my family and some friends," I answered.

"I heard about Yuffie through Riku; is she doing okay?" Hayner asked worriedly; Yuffie was like a second mother to everyone, so of course they would be worried. I nodded and he relaxed a little.

"Besides Yuffie, you've been spending a lot of time with that Axel kid," Olette stated with a cock of her head suggestively, "What's that about?" she continued.

"Yeah," Hayner popped in, "you've got a serious bromancegoing on with that kid," Hayner told me. Pence looked to me as well.

"You said before that you hated the guy, but you hang out with him more than anyone else!" Pence cried out.

"It's not like that, guys!" Not anymore anyway, "We just realized we had a lot in common." I held my hands in front of me in a defensive position in front of me with a pleading look. Pence and Olette accepted that answer, but Hayner seemed hesitant, but nodded anyway. I had a feeling he'd corner me later for the truth…am I that terrible of a liar?

"Hey, Roxas," I looked to Olette as she held out a ticket, "The basketball team is playing Friday at the gym, Hayner and Pence are on the team, so do you want my third ticket?" she asked politely. I looked toward the window at the moving landscape. I knew Axel had recently joined the team, but I needed to visit with some friends. I nodded slowly and turned to her bright smile as she handed me the ticket.

"Who else is going?" I asked worriedly. If it was Kairi I was doomed since all she did was ask about Sora and Riku.

"Naminé of course!" she answered happily. I nodded with a small smile. I really only saw her at lunch these days, but I never really talked with her since I was busy reading Axel's lips about what he wanted to do after school that day, or how sexy I looked. Last week I just sat and stared at the table and I know that would have worried her.

"Okay," I said quietly and she turned to talk to Pence about their date plans since they were going out now. Hayner and Olette switched seats and he punched my arm lightly as he sat beside me.

"Can I come over and talk to you later?" he asked suddenly and I turned to him as he continued to stare at the ceiling. I nodded and he did as well and we were silent the rest of the train ride. I idly wondered what was on his mind that he needed to talk about that he couldn't with either Olette or Pence. When we dismounted back in Twilight Town he grabbed my sleeve and looked into my eyes with an urgency. I didn't know what was up with my friend, but I assumed he needed to talk now so I brought him to my cold, lonely house.

"Jeez, this place is normally so inviting." I closed the door and shivered at the nonexistent temperature change from outside to inside. "Now it's shit," he stated evenly and my eyes narrowed.

"Come to the kitchen, dick head." I pushed past him and he laughed as he shed his coat and followed me to the kitchen. He perched himself on the kitchen counter and watched me set a kettle on to boil some water for hot chocolate. "What's on your mind?" I asked him as I casually leaned on the counter across from him. His face fell and he looked around nervously.

"Seifer…" he trailed off and I sighed. I had almost completely forgotten about my friend and his unhealthy crush on Seifer. I normally hated the idea because Seiferbeat the shit out of me every day, but since Halloween, he hasn't touched me. I was also the only person who knew. "I think Seifer knows." Scratch that previous statement of mine…

"What makes you think that?" I asked and he looked toward the window.

"Well…let me explain," he decided after a moment's thought.

One hour ago: Hayner's POV

"You ready to lose, chicken shit?" Seifer growled as he held his struggle bat above his head. He was still dressed in that ridiculous white coat and mid-drift shirt plus that god damned beanie cap!

But I wouldn't have it any other way…

"Yeah, you'll be sorry you ever challenged me, Seifer!" I bit back furiously. Rai dropped his arm and ran off to find Fuu as Seifer and I charged each other. I slashed and he blocked trying to get a swing on me but I dodged it easy. This went on for a few minutes since we were a good match. That was until Seifer tripped me and fell on top of me. I stared up bewildered as I looked into Seifer's blue-green eyes. Mine widened as he looked down at me, his leg in between mine. I gulped and he smirked.

That's when he leaned down and captured my lips.

I liked it…and he knew that.

"I knew ya had a thing for me, fag," he chuckled and I lost that dazed feeling as I kneed him in the balls and flipped him over and brought down my bat. My friends cheered as he looked up at me in a new light.

"Don't you ever call me that again!" I whispered threateningly.

Present

"Damn, Hayner," I sighed and the blond boy looked at his feet, "That sucks, but maybe he'll realize you're a sexy stud he wants to~"

"Don't even go there, Rox!" Hayner quickly interrupted me and we laughed happily. The kettle started to scream and Hayner hopped off the counter, "I'll choose the movie!" he called behind him and I sighed. Maybe I could tell him what was bothering me… "ROXAS!" I poked my head into the living room and he looked to me from the DVD cabinet.

"What? Missing Seifer already?" I asked Hayner and he gave me the finger.

"No, Nami wanted me to ask you if you'd play the piano at chorus practice again." I nodded and he went back to his previous task and I poured water into two cups. "You decide to ask Naminé out yet?" he yelled and I sighed and shook my head, even if he couldn't see it. Maybe I'll put off telling him.

XxXxXxXxXxXxX

Roxas's POV

"Great practice everyone!" the teacher called to her students as the cleaned up there things. "Thanks, Roxas, for helping out again. I really appreciate it!" she smiled to me and I nodded politely with a smile from the piano bench. She grabbed her stuff and left as well, stopping to talk to Naminé for a minute. I played a chord and smiled at the pleasant sound. I wasn't a fan of their music that I played, but I'd do anything to play a piano on a regular basis.

"Roxas?" I looked up to see Naminé bundled up in her winter gear: a stainless white jacket and a white beanie on her head. She looked cute, but that doesn't change my sexuality.

"Yeah, Naminé?" I asked her as she shed her coat.

"Would you play something you like to play for me?" I looked to her confused, "I saw your face when we were practicing, you don't like what you're playing!" she laughed and I joined her as well. It was a quiet Wednesday and three days after my movie marathon with Hayner as we bonded again as friends. I nodded, and she sat beside me at the piano bench and I placed my fingers over the keyboard. I hesitated before I played a little melody I wrote in my head the other day. I probably could have played Dearly Beloved, but I couldn't bring myself to finger those notes… stupid Axel! He still haunted me, but it was even worse that he was back in school. I did notice he looked rather sickly: he was pale and wore layers upon layers of clothes. He even looked thinner, and the guy was already like, anorexic skinny to begin with! When I finished, she was looking at me, confused.

"What?" I asked her and she looked to the keyboard.

"Well, you started playing a darker song and suddenly your hand moved up and you played something totally different." I looked to where my hands where. I started out on the low side of the board, and I guess when I started to think about I Axel, I ended up playing his song anyway. "What was the name of the song you just played? It was really pretty." She smiled to me.

"Dearly Beloved," I stated without looking at her. Why does Axel screw around with my head? I looked to her as she started to dress into her coat again. I pulled the key cover over the board and stood beside her as we left. I had to hurry and get to work since Tidus was covering until I got there. That boy could barely work the whipped cream bottle much less take care of all the college kids that need their caffeine fix. I parted ways with Naminé until I heard running match up with me and I turned to see her.

"I was thinking I could come down and get a drink real quick, maybe on the house?" she asked hopefully. I laughed lightly and nodded as we walked down the cold streets of Twilight Town. She had wrapped her arm around mine and I let it stay there. I didn't like leading her on since it was so obvious she likes me, but I just needed someone to hold onto right now…

XxXxXxXxXxXxX

Axel's POV

"Zexion!" I barked as the petit slate haired boy stood in front of me. He called me over to talk and would let me leave. I knew Demyx and Marly locked the bedroom door from the outside and Larxene had hidden the keys somewhere only she knew until I talked to Zexion.

"Something more is up, Axel!" he yelled to me. Zexion never shouted unless he was really pissed off. Hell, he didn't even yell at Demyx after he learned of my renewal of previous habits. "You won't leave until you talk to me!"

"It's just that month, Zexion! I see her fucking face everywhere and her fucking voice haunts me! On top of that, I have the fact I can barely do anything without thinking of Roxas and how much of a fuck up I've been toward our relationship!" I roared into his face. He looked to the ground as I caught my breath from my screaming. Zexion walked over to the door and knocked twice.

"Let him out," he ordered and there was a muffled response I couldn't here as I sat on the bed and buried my face in my hands. "Do you want to talk to Reno's friend again?" he asked lightly, and I shook my head. I wasn't in the mood to talk to a therapist…not again anyway. "We're just worried about you, that's all," he continued, "We've seen how far you can sink…and we never want that to happen again, alright? Talk to us," he urged me and the door opened to reveal and the trio smiling stupidly at the door. I chuckled half heartedly and stood up to tower over my friend.

"I'll talk when I get Roxas back," I mumbled to Zexion, knowing he'd never take me back after all the shit I put him through meaning I'd never have to talk about my past.

Just try to talk to her, Axel.

Mom?

Leave me the fuck alone, you brat!

Right after you, Mom.

XxXxXxXxXxXxXxX

Roxas's POV

I was dressed in the school colors, black and orange, as I waited by the school doors for Naminé and Olette to arrive. I looked up to the sky since there was a nice covering of grey for this crappy day. The weatherman said it was going to snow today, and I loved the snow so I was excited. It was a nice Friday to have a basketball game, I suppose. It was freezing outside and just the right temperature inside so they players won't be angry if they miss out on a certain type of weather, because Hayner does openly complain when he misses out on any type of warm weather. I finally saw Olette and Naminé pull up in her parent's car. They parked and hurriedly ran up to me and we entered together.

"How's Sora and Leon doing?" Olette asked me as we walked through the school halls.

"They're pretty good, I suppose. Leon spends every night with her and Sora is either there, at school, or with Riku these days," I summarized.

"I'm sorry to hear that, Roxas." Olette told me sadly. Naminé grabbed my arm.

"I'm sure if he gets lonely enough he'll call one of us, or play with that adorable cat of his." She smiled. I remembered that Wednesday I brought her to my house and she took a liking to Muffins. I laughed lightly and we gave our tickets to the table in front of the gym doors. We walked in and while the away team was warming up, people were standing around and talking to people they knew. I spotted Kairi and Reno on the far wall and I wondered why they were here, that was until I remembered their cousin was on this team. Still…why was Kairi here? Last time I checked, she wasn't much of a fan of her cousin. Strange. I guess Reno forced her here since they act like brothers. Olette took a seat somewhat close to Reno and Kairi, but they didn't notice me since they were locked in a heated conversation between each other that I only picked up pieces of, but not enough to figure out whom and what they were talking about. Olette and Naminé talked about girly things and I let my mind wander to Axel again against my will. I wondered idly how he was doing since I last spoke to him almost two weeks ago.

"Hello-o, Twilight Town!" the announcer shook me from my thoughts. I focused onto the empty gym floor as he continued read stuff off until the team finally hit the court and the screaming started. I glanced over to Kairi and Reno who had stopped arguing and were watching who I was almost looking at. Kairi looked worried and Reno looked pissed off. I looked directly at Axel and audibly gasped. He looked….terrible.

He was thinner than when I last saw him, meaning he probably hasn't been eating. He was pretty damn pale to begin with, but this was ridiculous and he seemed so tired and…tormented. Something was definitely wrong with him, but I don't know why I care so much. The ball was tossed up and the game began. It went on for a good thirty minutes without issue, except for the fact Axel started out aggressive, but was slowly but surely falling. Hayner had scored a few times with Pence as his assist and the whole team was crushing their opponent. I was cheering happily along with my friends, not letting Axel bother my thoughts. That was until he got the ball and was positioning for a shot.

He fell.

He wasn't getting up.

I was panicking against my will.

Reno and Kairi started to run to the floor while the present medic brought out a stretcher for Axelas I stared, unable to will myself to move. Reno and Kairi helped and they moved him out of the gym while the announcer tried to calm the crowd, but I was beyond being able to be calmed. I stood up and sprinted out of the gym.

"Roxas!" my friends called after me, but right now I don't care if I blow my cover of being in love with Axel. There, I said it; I'm still in love with that ass-hat and he just pissed me off by being taken to a hospital! I burst through the doors and quickly ran toward the car I drove here in, which was Yuffie's. I got in and buckled up and quickly drove to the hospital.

XxXxXxXxXxXxXxX

When I arrived I ran in through emergency where I spotted the worried Kairi pacing as Reno talked to the present nurse at the desk.

"Kairi!" I called to her and she looked over to me and smiled nicely and I met her halfway.

"How did you know I was here?" she asked, "I thought Yuffie wasn't in emergency anymore," she said and I noticed a tiny shake in her voice.

"I was actually at the basketball game and I saw what happened to Axel," I said and her eyes widened and she nodded.

"He hasn't been his self lately and we were against him playing tonight, but he wouldn't have it. It was like he had someone to prove something to." Reno walked over and when he spotted me his glare softened significantly. "Reno? What's the verdict?" she asked worriedly.

"I thought you hated Axel," he stated sarcastically and she elbowed her brother and he laughed.

"I don't ever mean that, Reno! I'm worried about him. He's like the brother I never had," she said her last sentence sarcastically and Reno made a stabbing gesture into his stomach.

"Wanna twist the knife, sis?" he asked and we both laughed a little. "Actually, Mom wants me to take you home since you have that thing tomorrow morning." She hit his forehead angrily.

"I almost forgot about that damn thing. You better take me home then. Tell Yuffie we hope she gets better soon!" she took the keys from Reno and ran toward the door. Reno turned to me with a sheet of paper.

"He needs you now." He winked as I took the paper. He followed his younger sister, and I looked down to the note.

Lea, Axel T.

Room 813

I folded the paper into my pocket and started to walk through the long hallways toward the elevator. I smiled a little when I realized Axel must have told Reno, but no one else. I was pretty thankful Reno didn't tell anyone else as well…he was cool like that. I punched in the third floor and waited with bated breath. I was afraid of what I'd see, I really was. The elevator door opened and I walked through the light blue hallway toward the end of the hall and took a deep breath at door 813. I turned the knob hesitantly and walked in quietly and slowly and was ready to apologize over and over.

"Axel~" I stopped when I saw him. He had all sorts of IV's and tons of fluid bags and he was sleeping, but looked tormented in it. I moved a rack and pulled up a seat beside him and watched him for a couple of minutes. I looked to his wrists to see jagged, fresh scars with white ones underneath. He had been cutting. He seemed to be having a nightmare as well and I grabbed his hand and held it in mine and he visibly relaxed. I smiled slightly and decided I'd stay here until I was forced out. I lightly kissed his hand. "I'm sorry, Axel," I murmured into his hand.

"You have nothing to apologize for." My head shot up at the quiet voice that belonged to Axel. His green eyes lessened in intensity as he gazed at me happily, "It's all my fault and I don't~" I put a finger to his lips.

"Shut your mouth for just five goddamned minutes," I told him and removed my finger. "Get better and we'll talk later, okay?" I told him and smiled lightly. I laid my head on his hand and closed my eyes. We stayed like that for the longest time and I really thought Axel had fallen asleep again.

"I don't think I deserve you…I'm just a messed up person and I don't like hurting you with my failure to control myself…" I didn't move, letting Axel believe he was talking to a sleeping me. "I'm just a screwed up idiot…I don't deserve you Roxas…"

"If anyone does, you do," I spoke aloud not moving, "I'm not gonna pretend I understand you," I turned to him "Hell, I don't think I ever will." He frowned at me, "But I'd like to try." He suddenly smiled and I leaned down and kissed him sweetly on the lips; he still tasted of cinnamon and everything spicy.

"So does this mean I'm forgiven?" he asked and I narrowed my eyes and looked at him like he was crazy.

"Hell no" I smiled and he laughed, "But you can earn that forgiveness if you try really hard." I smiled and kissed his lips again. I never thought I'd miss the taste so much.

XxXxXxXxXxXxX

Reno's POV

"Go to sleep, Kai!" I yelled and slammed her door shut. I turned to look at my mother and sighed at her questioning glance, "Exhaustion…" I trailed off and she nodded. They told me my cousin was suffering from extreme exhaustion, but I knew there was something else wrong, bigger than what they observed.

"Are you okay, Reno?" she asked me lightly and placed a hand on my shoulder. I shrugged it off and turned toward the door.

"I'm gonna take a little trip, okay?" she nodded and I grabbed my keys and slammed the door behind me.

Three days ago

"Axel? What the fuck?" I yelled when I pushed his door open. He was lying on his bed with a bloodstained pocket knife beside him. His sheets had stains all over them and he looked dangerously pale. I ran over and shook him awake. His eyes were glazed over and I stared at him in angry shock.

"R-Reno?" he asked hesitantly. I raised my hand to slap him, but stopped when I saw the tears in his eyes. "I'm such a screw up…I hurt Roxas really badly, and I might have ruined Dem and Zex's relationship. Maybe they were right that I~" I hugged my frail cousin close to me. I had no doubts that it was December if he was this emotional.

"No…they weren't right at all." I rubbed his back, "Let's get you cleaned up, okay?"

I hated to see him like that…I never wanted to see him so low again, and he almost reached that all time low he hit years ago. It was scary to think Roxas could really cause these emotions to flare up…or ease them. I parked in front of the mansion on the other side of town that belonged to Rufus Shinra. I got out of the piece of crap I called my car and walked up the long driveway until I reached the porch where the man sat. He was dressed in a white suit as he read a book, his pale blond hair falling into his face. I walked toward him.

"Something wrong, Reno?" he asked without looking up from his book. I continued to walk till I sat beside him on the swing.

"It's Axel…I think he needs some help…" I trailed off. I had always stood by my cousin's opinion and if he said he didn't need help, he probably didn't. Still…he was cutting again…I'm doing what I think is best for him.

"You want me to do it, huh?" he still didn't look at me.

"Yeah…I mean, you'd understand better than anyone else!" I explained and he finally looked up and his pale blue eyes met mine.

"Just because I was treated as a piece of shit growing up doesn't mean I'd understand what he's going through. Each parent leaves their own emotional mark on their kid," he told me and looked down to his book. I placed my hand over it and he looked up to me annoyed.

"I'll work free over time if you can at least give me the number of a good therapist," I told him. He thought for a little while before nodding. He stood up and told me to wait as he went into his house. I leaned back and smiled slightly. It's a good thing to be friends with your genius boss, even if I want more from it, but that can wait.

Axel is my first priority.

I just had to throw in my new obsession, Rufus Shinra. I never played the game, but I saw the movie and you have to admit he is pretty hot. Ahem. Ok, let's see some reviews people!