JC: Worst week ever! I caught a cold that's been lurking around our house. I woke up on Monday to find out I have a fever, which put me out of commission for days. I had missed out work. I couldn't get my brain to work. I suffered from the worst writer's block ever and I felt so crap. I'm feeling a bit fine right now and I was able to finish up this chapter. Prepare for romance! I hope it didn't come out as too mushy or corny. I'm still trying to keep Jaden's boyish charms intact while making him look sexy.

Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! GX, people, or its characters, but the plot is mine. All rights belong to Kazuki Takahashi.

White Vow

Turn 11: More than Friends

She came awake, stretching as sleep fell away. Turning her head, she gazed around and realized that it was already morning. The long hours of sleep were just what her body needed. Her tiredness was gone and her strength was replenished. She sat up, suddenly remembering the intimate moment she shared with Jaden. They had talked, embraced, and confessed to one another, and they had kissed. She had been afraid to tell him her feelings. She feared their friendship may never be the same again. However, it was such a big surprise to hear him say those three special words. She was overwhelmed with relief and bliss when he had taken her in his arms with tenderness.

Pushing the blanket off her lap, she headed into the bathroom, careful enough not to put much weight on her hurt ankle. It was still a little sore from yesterday. She washed her face, brushed her teeth, and put on a yellow tank top with white shorts before tidying up her hair. When she was all set, she went out into the hallway.

She wanted to see Jaden. She tried his room first, but he wasn't there. She then tried the dining room, where her mother told her where he was currently at. Heart pounding, she went to the garden. She found Jaden there, settled under the tree, sitting on the patch of grass with cards in his hands. He was wearing a sleeveless red shirt with a white hood, white shorts, and a pair of black wristbands. The sight of him made her heart raced more.

Glancing up from his cards, he gave her his cheerful, boyish smile. "Mornin', Lex! Has your fever gone down?"

"Yeah…"

"You sure it's okay to be out of bed? How's your ankle?"

"It's fine…"

Jaden patted the space beside him. "Sit down with me."

She sat down, feeling nervous by the fact they were more than friends now. They were an item, a couple.

"Still can't believe I said those mushy stuff," Jaden joked, chuckling, as he scratched the back of his head. He looked a little nervous. "So unlike me, right?"

"I thought it was kind of sweet," she said. "Yesterday felt like a dream. I never expected you to share the same feelings."

"Same here. A guy like me getting a girl as awesome as you? Who knew I stood a chance?" He leaned back, sighing in relief. "So, anyway, we're official now, right?"

She nodded with a smile. "I feel lighter now."

"Me too. Keeping it all inside was kinda hard."

"I guess we were both waiting for the right moment to say it."

"Have you told big bro yet?"

"No," she answered flatly.

"How about your mom?"

The blonde grimaced, lifting a hand to her forehead. "They'll party all night if they find out about 'us'. I don't want to get dragged into their over-the-top fete. They do things with so much flair that it's disturbingly amusing."

Jaden chuckled. "Like mother, like son… But they need to know, Lex."

"No worries… I wasn't planning on keeping 'us' a secret, you know."

"I'm glad your mom and brother are okay with me. It's a whole different story with your dad. Well, I'm not expecting him to accept me any time soon."

"He'll come to accept you sooner…or later."

He entwined his hand with hers. "You're my girl, with or without your father's approval."

Her pulse fluttered, a warm sensation washed over her that made her want to throw herself into his arms. Instead, she smiled confidently at him. "Pretty bold of you, Jaden."

"Am I?" He laughed and hugged her. "Probably because I'm so happy now."

Her cheeks pinked like the blossoms of pink cherries. "J-Jaden!" She had the urge to embrace him in return. However, the sound of rustling leaves from above triggered her ardent senses. Pushing Jaden away, she stood up and looked up at the tree. "Unbelievable," she grumbled, taking her one of her flip-flops off. "Get down here!" She threw her footwear like how a ninja would throw a shurinken straight into the bushy head of the tree.

THACK!

The footwear hit something or someone. "What's going on?" asked Jaden.

Just then Atticus came falling down on top of Jaden.

Her older brother happened to be spying on them all this time, and she wanted to strangle him to death if it weren't for her self-control. "Seems like there's no need to tell you," she said, crossing her arms, as she glared at her brother.

Atticus who was still on top of poor Jaden swallowed hard before he chuckled to ease up a little. "My little sissy's so sharp as usual," he said.

"Yeah, sure, just forget about the guy who softened your landing," Jaden muttered sarcastically. "It's not as if I mind having you lying on top of me, even though you're real heavy and all."

"Oh, sorry…Almost forgot you were there," Atticus said cheerfully, rolling off of Jaden.

"Jaden, how long has he been up there?" Alexis questioned.

Jaden noted the serious tone present in her voice and quickly shook his head. "No idea, Lex, I swear."

"You guys are finally lovers!" Atticus declared, jumping to his feet, spreading his arms wide. His handsome features were clear with pleasure. "And I just gained a brother!"

Alexis wore a frown, his gaze fixed on Atticus with a look of exasperation. "Here he goes…Changing the subject…" she mumbled.

Pulling Jaden towards him, Atticus wrapped one arm around his neck. "Allow me to welcome you to the family, Jaden," he said happily. "I always knew it would take an extraordinary guy to melt my little sister's heart. But, J, are you ready to put up with her?"

Her eyes narrowed dangerously, and Atticus gulped. "What are you trying to—"

A laugh escaped from Jaden. "I'm more than ready, bro."

Atticus flashed a well-toothed smile. "Jaden, you're one lucky guy to have my sister," he said. "Take good care of her." He then winked his eye.

Jaden smiled. "Course I will!

Alexis cleared her throat. "Enough with the BROMANCE and peel yourself off him now."

Atticus pulled away and lifted a hand to his sister's face. "You're probably the happiest girl on this planet at the moment."

Her pulse leaped. "I'm flustered enough. The last thing I need right now is you making me feel more awkward."

"You are too cute for words, Lexi!" Atticus said, lightly flicking her forehead. "Oh, I have to tell this to Mac. This news is big!"

Alexis' brows furrowed. "Please try not to exaggerate things to her."

"No worries!" With that said, Atticus quickly rushed off, leaving the couple behind.

"He's really a handful." Jaden looked at Alexis. "By the way, who's Mac?"

"His fiancée, the only girl capable enough to bring my brother to heel. She's a great Duelist too, you know. She graduated from Duel Academy America."

Jaden's eyes lighted up with excitement. "Seriously? Now I'm really interested. You think I can get to Duel her someday?"

"Maybe."

"Hmm…Guess there's no need to pretend anymore. We're the real deal now."

"Yeah…" Alexis held his hand. "Hey, let's head to that place."

"The one in the forest?"

She nodded, her eyes appearing more beautiful in the brilliant sunlight.

"Sure thing!"

He drove the motorcycle, the one they used to escape her father at the airport, with Alexis sitting as passenger behind him, and headed into the forest. They soon arrived at the clearing bedded with assorted yet beautiful flowers. The leaves, the grass, and the soft petals danced gracefully on the swift breeze. The scent of nature filled their senses, giving them a comforting sensation. It set their hearts at ease to be in that wonderful environment.

She was admiring the view when a pair of arms snaked around her waist. She gasped in surprise.

"I really love it here!" he exclaimed excitedly, lifting her up and twirling around.

"Jaden, I'm getting dizzy!" she cried, closing her eyes.

The young brunette stopped and fell backwards, bringing Alexis down with him. He lay down on the flower bed, laughing, as he pressed her more against him.

She flushed red. "N-Not the most comfortable position," she said, controlling her tone.

He released her from his clutches and let her slide off him on to the patch of grass. "This counts as a date, doesn't it?" he asked, innocence present in his eyes.

"I guess so."

A gleam came into his eyes, along with an expression of uncertainty. "Hey…um…Why—I mean, when did you start having feelings for me?" He was positive his cheeks were stained.

"Like I said before, it wasn't love at first sight, but you were someone who always stood out." She graced him with a smile. "It all started with a simple crush, then it developed into something more. Probably during our senior year…"

"And here I thought you always saw me as a friend or a little brother you never had." He chuckled.

"I already have my hands full with an older brother like Atticus."

"What do you think will the guys say when we tell them? I'm sure they'll be surprised, especially Chazz. Who would have guessed that the Queen of Obelisk Blue would date a Slifer Red?" Apart from their ranks in school, their status in life clearly set them apart. Alexis was rich, sophisticated, beautiful, while he, Jaden Yuki, was a plain, average, and did not have much to offer financially. Alexis could have any man, but she chose him.

She grimaced. "No need to tell them. This will be all over the net because of Atticus."

"Boy, I'm gonna feel sorry for Chazz."

"I do appreciate his feelings, but I only see him as a friend."

He sighed. "Chazz as your boyfriend…I'm sure…your dad would approve."

She laid a hand against his face. "Who cares what dad thinks? You said it yourself; I'm your girl, with or without dad's approval."

His skin turned hot beneath her touch. "Alexis…" His lips then curved into a smile. "Yeah, you're right! I'm not gonna back off just because your old man doesn't like me." The guy already tried to bribe him out of the relationship. Money would never blind him, and Alexis was far more important. He was certain Mr. Rhodes was concocting a plan to set them apart, but he was confident to overcome the odds. And I have that MAN as my backup.

Jaden hummed.

"Someone's in a good mood," Atticus said, entering his room with a box.

Jaden smiled. "Come on, I know you know why."

It had been five days since their confession, and things had gotten better and better between them. His smile grew bigger just thinking about all the times they'd been more or less intimate. They've shared some hugs and kisses, but Jaden wouldn't dare go beyond past that. They've also dueled a couple of times. They could barely be seen apart. Atticus and Mrs. Rhodes were the occasional cupids most of the time, and they didn't fail to make them feel extremely embarrassed or make the mood so sweet for them. It was a good thing Mr. Rhodes had already gone back to work. Without him on the island, things were just smooth for Jaden.

Atticus eyed him. "Being in love is great, huh?"

"Sure is! All your lessons paid off, bro."

"Glad I was able to help. By the way, this is for you." Atticus handed him the box he was holding. "It's from my mom."

Jaden looked perplexed. "Your mom?" He opened the box and peered inside. There were two sets of outfits inside. "What's this?"

"They're for the party," Atticus said.

"Party?"

"My mom's birthday party two days from now," Atticus replied. "It's going to be held right here on this island. There will be tons of guests."

His heart skipped a beat. "Your mom's birthday? I had no idea. Oh, man…What should I get her?"

Atticus patted his shoulder. "Don't worry yourself over something like that. Besides, you've already given my mom a good present by becoming my sister's boyfriend."

Jaden felt his face growing warm. "I-uh…I guess so…"

"I've invited some of our old pals from school."

"Our old pals?" Jaden blinked before his face lit up with excitement. "You mean Sy and the others?"

Atticus nodded.

"SWEET! I so wanna see them again."

"Bet they'll be surprised to find out about you and Lexi."

Jaden raised a brow at him. "You haven't told them yet?"

Atticus chuckled. "I figured you should tell them. Man, I can't wait to see the look on their faces. I'm gonna feel sorry for Chazz though."

A frown greased Jaden's lips. "So Chazz is invited too, huh?"

"You worried he might take Alexis away?"

"N-No!" Jaden exclaimed, flushing a little red. "I'm not worried at all. I know how Alexis feels about me."

"Good. Trust is important in a relationship."

"Just like how your fiancée trusts you, right?"

"Of course! I'm also excited for the party because she's coming too. I haven't seen her, like, in ages. Only through webcams and such…" Atticus sighed dreamily, thinking of his beautiful wife-to-be.

Jaden made a quick work of stripping his clothes and donning his blue shorts with flame prints. Grabbing a towel from the bathroom, he headed downstairs and went into the pool area. The tiles were cool under his bare feet. The moonlight shining through the glass roof lit up the area well enough. He dropped the towel onto one of the chairs, and then dived into the pool canon ball style. When he surfaced, he let himself float as he stared at the starry sky. His thoughts wandered briefly about that MAN and the bet. He sighed, wondering what HE wasup to next.

He had called the MAN to give him an update, especially the news about him and Alexis being a couple now. As expected, the MAN was more than pleased with this, saying that it all went well as planned. Jaden felt like he was simply a puppet to this man, but he can't help feeling grateful for his help. The call ended with a warning though, which sent chills up and down his spine.

"If you ever hurt Alexis, then I'll make sure you'll pay, Jaden Yuki."

Jaden sighed. "That guy is like the devil himself…"

He was about to dive in when the door opened and Alexis walked out in blue two-piece swimsuit. Jaden simply blushed. He was painfully aware of Alexis' beauty, but seeing her in a swimsuit made him feel like he was looking at a goddess. She had curves all in the right places. Her body was slender and her legs were creamy and long. If he were the old naïve Jaden, then he wouldn't even give her a second look. But things were different now. He was a man—a man in love.

"Out for a swim?" Jaden wanted to hit himself. It was a pretty lame question considering she was dressed to swim.

Alexis giggled. "Yeah." She sat down at the edge of the pool and dipped her feet in the water. "Did you get the clothes?"

"I have to dress to impress, right?" He swam towards her and lifted himself out of the water, taking a seat beside her. "Not that I mind though…I'm kinda excited. Our friends are coming too."

She glanced thoughtfully off into the distance. "I wonder what he'll think of this…" she muttered under her breath.

"He? You mean Chazz, right?"

Alexis' gaze flickered to his face, then she eased up with a smile. "O-Of course, I mean Chazz…Who else could it be?" She got into the pool and started swimming. After a moment, she stopped and looked back at him. "Not gonna swim some more?" she asked.

Smiling, Jaden plunged into the pool.

She saw his figure moving toward her through the water and gave a little laugh. Just as she was about to strike out for the pool's edge, Jaden surfaced in front of her.

"Night swimming's the best!" he said, squirting water at her face.

Wincing, Alexis stepped back. "Hey!" She then splashed water on him as revenge.

The couple played around for a while, trying to best each other in their little water sport, enjoying it like little kids. Jaden seemed to get clumsy here and then, and Alexis was quick to take advantage of him. When Jaden had enough of the entire splashing and the squirting, he lunged toward Alexis and pulled her underwater. Alexis tried to resurface when Jaden snaked his arms around her waist. She was taken aback at this. As Jaden pulled her closer to him, Alexis felt a little warmth sizzling in her chest despite the cool water.

To be able to hold her like this, Jaden thought as his lips curved into a smile, was unbelievable. However, the moment they were sharing was more than just a fleeting dream. Jaden couldn't get any happier than he was right now. After a while, he released her but quickly held hands. Once they resurfaced, Jaden raised their entwined hands and smiled widely. "I'm never letting go of this hand," he said.

Alexis smiled back, feeling touched with what he said, but she felt the urge to tease. "Never, huh? Even when we go change or take a shower? I guess we have to sleep together too."

Jaden blushed. "T-That's not what I meant. What I meant to say was—"

She giggled. "Just kidding."

He let out a sigh. It sure got him flustered.

To be continued…

JC:Some cute moments before I get to the serious parts. The old gang is gonna appear in the next chapter, along with two exclusive GX manga characters. What do you think will happen if Chazz and the others learn of Jaden and Alexis' relationship? I'm also gonna give Atticus a little romantic moment with his fiancée too. I'll try to update as soon as possible. Please review! No flames!