A/N: Happy holidays, everyone! First of all, I apologize for my long absence. It's been a busy freshman year for me, with college adjustments and all that. I am terribly sorry for keeping you readers waiting for so long. It's just that I never found time until this Christmas break. Papers and exams have consumed the majority of my time and I just couldn't finish this chapter. No, I will not abandon this fic. I plan to finish this, I promise you readers. Anyways, I'm here now with another chapter. Please enjoy! Also, please favorite and leave a review and I'll respond as soon as I can.
Review responses:
Valyrian: I am fine, thank you. I'm really glad that you like what you've seen so far, it means a lot to me. Regarding the point-of-views, there's a reason as to why I keep switching them. I promise you, what happens around for example Sora and Naminé will be connected to create a huge impact in Roxas' character. Switching POVs also allow me to clarify some details that would appear to be vague if I only write about Roxas'. I'm sorry about the spacing, it's just that sometimes, when I upload the edited document to this website the format changes. I'll figure it out soon though. Thank you for reviewing!
: As for Devin, the reason behind his actions will be explained in the next chapter, unfortunately. Sorry for leaving you hanging on that one, hehe. Regarding Pence, no he won't be that guy hahaha. Although I admit that it might take a few more chapters before I introduce Pence in a detailed fashion. Thank you for reviewing!
KingdomHeartsKeyBladeMaster: Thank you so much for your support! Oh and thanks, I'll be needing some luck in college :D. Thank you for reviewing!
"Since I asked you to play, you shoot for possession." Hayner announced as he passed the basketball to Roxas.
Roxas caught it with ease and stepped behind the three-point line. He took a deep breath and eyed the rim. A second later, he rose up and took the shot. He missed.
Hayner smiled inwardly. This was going to be an easy win for him. If this Roxas can't shoot a jumpshot-which in his opinion is the easiest aspect of basketball to master, then he doesn't stand a chance against THE Hayner Wilson. Hayner could already see himself schooling the poor kid in front of him. He sighed, owning kids his age these days is starting to bore him.
Roxas, unaware of Hayner's thoughts, fetched the ball. Hayner took his spot behind the three-point line and waited. Roxas tucked the ball in his hand and made his way to his own spot- two feet within the three-point line.
"Check." Roxas declared then passed the ball to Hayner.
Hayner had to hold back a laugh. He couldn't wait to make his opponent cry. The confident brunet immediately started to dribble. Roxas on the other hand adopted a defensive stance. Hayner suddenly drove right hard. Roxas followed him and tried to block his path. Hayner grinned, he got his defender where he wanted him. Hayner quickly switched hands, performing a quick crossover to the left to blow-by Roxas and leave him in the rearview mirror. His dribble move worked to perfection. At this point, Hayner was grinning like a maniac. It was all too easy for him. With two more steps, Hayner jumped and performed a layup to cap off his gorgeous play.
As soon as the ball left his hand, it was suddenly spiked out of bounds. Hayner's eyes widened. He couldn't believe what just happened. Immediately after he landed, he snapped his head to the left to confirm his fears. Sure enough, they were true.
The ball bounced slightly as it lost its momentum. Shockingly, the basketball landed at least two meters away from Hayner's position. The brunet was overcome with disbelief. He ran over and picked up the ball. He gave it a tight squeeze as if making sure that he wasn't imagining everything. To his utter disappointment, the ball remained firm and he was finally able to believe that Roxas just swatted away his shot. That was the first time in the brunet's young career where his shot was blocked by someone shorter than he was.
He turned around, expecting to see an arrogant, obnoxious Roxas that was ready to rub the humiliation in. Instead he saw Roxas with his back turned to him, waiting for him to get set for the next possession.
Hayner begrudgingly made his way back to his position outside the three-point line. When he came face-to-face with the blond who just bruised his ego, he was taken aback once again. The look on Roxas' face was one of indifference and focus. It's as if he's already done that before-getting crossed but recovering just in time to block a shot. Hayner kept thinking to himself about who the hell this blond kid is. How come he's never heard of this Roxas before? Seriously, who is he?
Roxas on the other hand didn't even realize that the defensive play he just made was something no ordinary five-foot-eight-inch-thirteen-year-old can pull off. All he thought about was how to stop Hayner on the following try.
Roxas cleared the ball and again got into a defensive position. Both players eyed each other's torsos, mentally deciding which move to use or what trick to pull off to end the possession. As fortune would have it, Hayner moved first. This Roxas may have figured out how to stop his crossover move, but not his counter move. So he decided to use just that against the opponent. Hayner drove right hard once again. As expected, Roxas tried to block his path by matching his movements. The second Roxas planted his foot to the ground, Hayner performed a quick crossover to the left, just like last time. The blond hurried to the other side, appeared to have fallen for his brunet match-up's trap. Hayner grinned again. This time, he was going to score for sure.
Hayner quickly crossed back to the right, performing a double-crossover to get past Roxas. After executing his counter move, Hayner lost Roxas, or so he thought. With one more dribble, Hayner jumped and shot a floater, to make sure that his shot does not get blocked.
As soon as the ball left his hand, Hayner knew that it was going in. He even smiled a little when he released the ball. However, just before the ball could reach its maximum height, the brunet heard a loud spike and when he turned his head, he saw the ball bouncing out of bounds.
Hayner had to slap himself. He must be imagining things. There was no way Roxas could've blocked his shot. He tried blinking repeatedly, nothing disappeared. He was in total shock. He's a few inches taller than Roxas, yet Roxas was able to block his shot. Not just any shot, mind you, but a floater-a shot that's supposed to be taken to avoid getting blocked by taller defenders.
Roxas on the other hand remained indifferent. While Hayner was in shock, Roxas mentally scolded himself. The blond felt like he could've done much better, in spite of the near-impossible play he just pulled off. He scolded himself, for he knew that he could've defended Hayner better so that Hayner wouldn't have even be able to get past him in the first place. He shook his head, preparing to defend Hayner for the third time. This was going to be a long match…
About half an hour later, the match was over. Hayner bent over as he clutched his knees, panting heavily. The brunet was thoroughly exhausted from his match against the kid he thought he was better than.
For the umpeteenth time in the last hour, Hayner witnessed another 'miracle'. As much as he hated to admit, his blond opponent whooped his butt quite badly. The final score turned out to be 21-5. Needless to say, the rather unexpected outcome mortally wounded the cocky brunet's ego.
As Hayner sulked in the corner, Roxas stood near the free-throw line with his hands on his hips. He personally didn't find his performance bad. But he didn't find it good either. He may have won by a big margin, but this is just a one-on-one game. Basketball is supposed to be a five-on-five match. Besides, he could've done so much better, especially when it comes to defense. As ridiculous as it sounds, he will always criticize is own defensive ability until he'll be able to force his match-up to not score at all.
\With his goal set, Roxas straightened up and looked to continue training. Before that however, he walked over and thanked Hayner.
"Nice game." Hayner stood straight and turned towards the source of the voice. There stood Roxas with his right hand held out, his expression one of indifference. Hayner inwardly debated whether he should shake Roxas' hand or leave him hanging. After Roxas embarrassed him, the brunet certainly anticipated to be bad-mouthed. Because that's exactly what he would do to Roxas if he did what was done to him.
Deciding to take his chances, he shook the blond's hand. "Yeah, good game."
Roxas smiled at him before running over to grab the ball. He then made his way to the other side of the court and began with his routine.
Hayner was in awe the whole time. He came to the gym, Roxas was already working on his game. After playing a one-on-one match with him, Roxas was again working on his game. He admired the blond's dedication. Roxas should be tired by now, for he locked him down for their entire match. Roxas was blocking shots left and right for half an hour and he still wants to practice after? Wow.
Hayner could only smile. Eventually, he turned around to leave the gym. There was only one thought in his mind- this Roxas kid is going to be one hell of a player.
"Ven, you alright?" Vanitas asked loudly as he approached his sibling.
"Huh, uh, yeah, man. I'm alright. How's your day?" Ven quickly replaced his frown with his usual smile.
Vanitas smiled cockily. "Don't even try to change the subject. You may be smarter than I am, but you're horrible when it comes to hiding your feelings. Come on, tell me. What's bothering you?"
Ventus froze. His older brother was on point today. He was pondering over a rather personal matter. Knowing Vanitas, he won't exactly be the first person to run to in situations like this. Ven loved his older brother, but he was just worse than useless when the topic of emotions come up.
"I'm telling you, it's nothing."
"Hi, Ven!" A melodious voice exclaimed.
For Ven, things got a lot worse. First, Vanitas was able to read him, which will eventually cause his older brother to bug him. Second, this…
"H-hi, Serah." Ven replied, blushing heavily.
Serah giggled, which caused Ven's blush even more. "I just came by to give this back to you." Serah handed over a green hoodie. Ven had to mentally slap himself before reaching over to grab his piece of clothing. "Thank you so much. I just felt really cold earlier, and you know how much I hate the cold."
"It's no problem, I totally understand. Besides, I'm not really too keen on seeing your swollen nose." Ven teased.
Serah pouted as he smacked his arm. "Hey! You don't have to be so mean! You're just jealous because I still look cute regardless." Serah's pout remained as she crossed her arms.
'Heck you could wear a paper bag and I would still find you beautiful' Ven mentally answered. "Yeah, right. Anyways, where are you headed?" Ven decided to change the topic before he blurts out something stupid.
"I'm on my way to grab a bite with Noel. He's been bugging me about going out for a snack since school started. Since I don't really have anything to do, I decided to take up his long-standing offer."
Ven's heart sunk a little. Were they going out on a date? "Oh, I see. School just started and going on a date already, aren't we?" Ven teased again. What Serah didn't know is that Ven was trying to find out if it really was a date and if they really are an item, or at least on their way to being one.
To Ven's chagrin, Serah simply rolled her eyes. "Yeah, sure." Ven almost cursed. Why does her answer have to be incredibly vague? Were they really going out? But why did she roll her eyes if that was the case? Then again, she said so…didn't she?
"Serah!" another voice called out. All three heads turned to find out whose voice that was. It turned out to be Noel's. "Hey, you ready?" Noel asked as he closed in. "Oh, hey Ven."
"Hey." Ven curtly responded to the greeting. Ven's blood boiled. Noel and Serah do look good together as a couple. He clenched his fists. Why does Noel have to be in the way? He's a great guy and all, but why did he had to have his eye on Serah?
"Yeah, I am. I just gave Ven his hoodie back. Come on, I'm getting a little hungry too." Serah turned to Ven with a smile that almost caused him to faint. "See you tomorrow, Ven."
"Yeah, tomorrow." Ven greeted with a goofy smile of his own, earning a giggle from Serah. He moved an eyebrow upwards once to address Noel before the two left. He sighed. He'd been blushing the whole time Serah was around.
Ven suddenly felt an arm around his shoulder. He turned his head and saw Vanitas' demon-esque grin.
"Ooh, Meanie Miss Farron, eh?"
Ven's blush returned. "I hate you."
"What did I say? She's actually a really really nice girl. Not to mention, she has those soda bottle curves that send even my own hormones to overdrive."
"Don't talk about her like that!" Ven spat out venomously.
"Sheesh, no need to get all defensive, little brother. Don't be jealous; I already have my sights set on a specific girl. Saying that you have the hots for her is the understatement of the century. Under rule twenty-two, I can't really but in now, can I?"
Ven calmed himself down. He couldn't believe that he got so worked up over a girl. But Serah isn't just any girl. He's been chasing her since two summers ago. "Sorry, big brother. I just-"
"I know, I know. Don't worry, I understand." Ven was surprised. Normally, Vanitas would be a total jerk, like using this newfound information for blackmail purpose and what not. "This is personal, so yeah, I won't be an asshole to you this time around. As for Serah, you've been on her tail since you met before freshman year. I would act like that too if I were you, you know."
"Thanks, Van. It means a lot." Ven said with a smile.
"Ugh, don't get all emotional on me now! All I'm saying is it's alright to be jealous. Besides, you have nothing to worry about."
"What do you mean I have nothing to worry about? Have you got any idea as to how long they've known each other?"
"So? Ven, you're a damn Helterbrand. You can make any girl fall in love with you without exerting that much effort. You're a basketball star, an honor student, a-"
"Alright alright, I get it." Ven said, raising a hand. "I understand what you're trying to say, but can't you see that I'm not the only guy who's trying to win Serah."
"You're worried about Noel?"
"Of course I am! Just because I am who I am doesn't mean that I'm perfect. Serah's not that kind of girl."
"I know, you wouldn't even develop feelings for her if she was. All I'm saying is I know you can make things happen. I want you to believe that."
Ven sighed. "Thanks brother. That's really nice of you."
Vanitas grimaced. "I told you to not go soft on me!"
"Alright, I'm sorry!"
"Whatever. Come on, Sora's waiting for us near the courtyard."
The two siblings started to make their way to the courtyard before the younger of the two decided to get some payback.
"Speaking of girls, how're you and Aqua?" Ven asked with an evil smile.
Vanitas almost looked ready to kill his brother as he spoke. "What. Do. You. Mean."
"You perfectly know what I mean. You said you already had your sights on a particular girl. So, how are things between you two?"
"Ven, if I didn't have to carry the burden of making up an excuse about your sudden disappearance I would already be whooping your ass by now."
"Chill. I was just asking."
Vanitas sighed and answered anyway. It was only Ven after all. "Everything's pretty much the same for us. She's still dating Terra and I'm still here talking to you."
"Sorry for being an asshole, but you're being a complete hypocrite here. You just told me to believe in myself. Why don't you do the same and start dating her?"
"Are you deaf? SHE'S DATING TERRA."
"Who in the world told you that?" Ven asked as if his brother committed a crime.
"It's so obvious! They've been hanging out with each other since summer!"
"So? Does hanging out automatically equate to dating?"
"Well if they keep hugging each other, they most certainly abso-effing-lutely do!"
"So?" Ven repeated "Serah hugs me all the time and we're not even dating."
"But you like her."
"But we're not dating, which is the point I'm trying to make. It could be friendly hugs for all you know."
"Terra's hugs don't exactly scream "I wanna be friends with you!", you know?"
"But do Aqua's?"
Vanitas froze. He lost another discussion with Ven, which wasn't really a rare occurrence. What surprised him was he wasn't able to answer his question. Does Aqua really like Terra? It sure looks like it. If she didn't then she's only leading Terra on. Aqua's not that type of girl, is she? Suddenly, he just let out a laugh.
"What's so funny?" Ven asked.
"The fact that we're a bunch of lovesick teenagers trying to help each other. I'm not even gonna start on how hypocritical we both are."
"I guess we are, but it's better than nothing."
"Anyways, thanks a lot. You clarified something for me."
"No problem, and thanks too."
The two reached the courtyard and looked for Sora. A few seconds later, they found Sora conversing with Naminé. From what they saw, both were blushing as they talked. Naminé giggled for the most part while Sora kept his goofy grin intact. Soon enough, they parted ways. Both hugged each other then Sora kissed Naminé on the cheek. When Naminé, Sora pumped his fist, his smile not faltering.
"Would you look at that. Little brother's lovelife is better than ours combined." Vanitas remarked.
"Yeah, really happy for him too. He hit the jackpot with Naminé for sure."
Both Ventus and Vanitas didn't admit, but if Naminé were their age, one of them would date her in a heartbeat. They've known her since they were kids and she's still the same innocent, sweet girl that everyone was fond of. They already found their significant…targets though, so they were more than willing to let Sora have the dream girl they all once had.
"We better call him before someone else notices his stupidity. Sora!"
Sora turned and waved to his brothers. He rushed to both of them and gave them a bear hug.
"This is one of the best days of my life!" Sora squealed.
"We're happy for you bro, but please let us go." Ven pleaded.
"Oh sorry." Sora apologized before releasing his siblings "I'm just so happy right now. In fact, I think I feel as if I just took a good dose of some illegal medicine."
"Calm down, will you? What got you so elated anyway?" Vanitas asked as he crossed his arms.
"She agreed to go on a date with me!" Sora squealed again.
"Good for you man." Ven said and ruffled the brunet's hair.
"We better head home, Mom and Dad will be back soon." Vanitas urged before leading the way.
The three siblings chattered on their way home, occasionally responding to the "Hi!"s and "Hello!"s of their neighbors. On their way, Sora led the conversation with according to Vanitas, whipped remarks about Naminé. Even if it did irritate the two older siblings, they just listened and felt happy for their younger brother.
When they reached their doorstep, Sora knocked since he was feeling hyperactive. "Hello! Roxas, you there? It's us!" Sora knocked and knocked but no one answered the door.
"Where the hell is he?" Vanitas asked worriedly.
"Maybe he's asleep. No worries, I have a key with me." Ven dismissed and opened the door with his key. When they stepped inside, they immediately went to the twins' room to see if Roxas was there.
To their surprise, he wasn't.
"Where is he? Shouldn't he be back by now?" Vanitas asked to no one in particular.
"I know. He did say he was gonna be back early today." Ven added.
"What if something happened to him?" Sora's happiness quickly dissipated with the absence of his twin.
"I'm not taking any chances. I'm gonna go look for him." Van declared.
"We're coming with you."
It was already eight o'clock in the evening. As usual, the school gym's lights were still on.
Inside the compound, a young blond was trying to catch his breath. He had been working out for a total of five hours now. He panted heavily, the exhaustion from training and the lack of fluids preventing him from properly using oxygen. He straightened up, grabbed his basketball, turned off the lights and made his way back home. He figured he would shower at home, since his family was probably worried about him. He could always dodge their questions by saying he went out for a run or something.
On his way, he passed the football field. He was surprised to see the lights still on and around twenty plus people on the field. They were practicing.
He stopped in his tracks. His father specifically told him to not play football. However, he would be lying if he said that the game did not interest him at all. So an idea popped out of his mind. His family was probably worried about him, but it'll only take a while. Besides, he was already late, what's the harm in being late a little more than he already is?
But then again, his family might call the police department or something. He had already worried them to death the previous time. He didn't want to be a burden to them too.
So he decided that he would play football tomorrow if possible. With that, he turned on his heel and made his way back home.
On his way back, the neighborhood was dead silent. Roxas half-wondered if he should sprint back home, since it isn't exactly safe around here at night. Sure, there were a lot of people here, but that doesn't mean it's a hundred percent safe. Also, sprinting back home would equate to him getting back home early, hopefully lessening the worry of his family.
As he passed by the park, he caught a glimpse of a figure sitting by the bench. Roxas kept his guard up. It could be anyone. From what he saw however, he found out that the figure was rather petite. In addition to that, he caught sight of the figure's hair, which was blonde. The figure also had a sketchbook on her lap and he/she was holding a pen in her left hand.
At attention, Roxas slowly approached the figure. He didn't know, but there was something about this person that drew him in. It's as if…he knows this person. He willed himself to stick with his instincts this time.
With slow, deliberate steps, he was gradually able to find out who the figure was. The figure sitting on the bench at around eight-thirty in the evening, was none other than Naminé.
"Naminé?" Roxas quietly spoke up.
Naminé gasped, sharply turning to the owner of the voice. She visibly calmed down when she found out it was someone she knew. "Roxas? What are you doing here?"
"I think I should be the one who's asking that question. It's around eight-thirty in the evening, you shouldn't be out here in the dark. It's dangerous here, especially for women." Roxas warned. He normally wouldn't have done this for anyone, but since it was Naminé, someone who treated him decently, he did otherwise.
Naminé crossed her arms as she replied. "If it's so dangerous, then why are you here by yourself as well?"
"Forgive me for the oncoming sexist remark, but I'm a guy. I can defend myself." Roxas has never felt so out of character before.
Naminé simply rolled her eyes in response. Roxas sighed deeply. "Look, I'm just worried about you. It's like the most natural thing to do as a fellow human being."
Naminé let out a sigh of her own. "I'm sorry, Roxas. I appreciate your concern, I really do. It's just that…there's really no other place I can go to at the moment that'll help me clear my mind."
Roxas bit his lip. He debated on whether he should ask Naminé what her problem was or just leave. Not being able to make his mind and not wanting to make any assumptions, he just asked Naminé. "I understand. Well, forgive me for asking, but would you want me to leave you alone? Sorry again for disturbing you." Roxas prepared to leave, before being stopped by the blonde.
"Oh no, I wouldn't mind having company. Come, sit here." Naminé said, patting the spot beside her on the bench. The blonde closed her sketchbook and inserted her pen inside its spiral binding before setting it down beside her.
Roxas reluctantly sat himself down and turned to her female companion. "So what's wrong, if you don't mind."
"It's alright. I'm actually a little worried about your brother, Sora."
"Sora? Why so?"
"Well, I've been texting and trying to call him since I got home, but he still hasn't responded until now."
Roxas grew worried as well. It was very unlikely for Sora to just ignore Naminé. His twin might not have told him, but he knows everything about Sora's feelings for the petite blonde. It's so obvious when they're around each other at school. They both turn into blushing and stuttering messes. But still, what could've caused his brother's negligence?
"Sorry, I can't help you there. I haven't seen him since earlier this morning when we went to school. Don't worry though, as soon as I get home I'll be sure to remind him to contact you."
"Thank you." Naminé thanked with a smile.
"Wow, he sure must mean a lot to you if you went out of your own way to hang out here at this hour just to calm yourself down." Naminé blushed at this. "You really really like him, eh?"
"Well…yes, I do." Naminé answered, her blush growing.
"Ah, good for you guys. That guy is completely nuts for you." at this point, Naminé already looked like a tomato "He's been acting like a whipped little boy since school started, not to mention he's become even more cheerful. In fact, he's so cheerful he falls a sleep with a smile on his face all the time."
Naminé swelled with pride and happiness. He's been just as happy as she is. She still couldn't believe it. The most wonderful and perfect boy in her school is 'completely nuts' for her. Oh, for how long has she waited for this bliss to be felt? The blonde had begun developing feelings for Sora since they were seven. She had always found the spiky brunet attractive from the first time they met, but it was the boy's desirable attitude that completely caused her to fall for him.
All of the sudden Naminé frowned. If she made him that happy, then why hasn't he responded to her since she left?
"Hey, I'm sure he has a good reason for not responding to your calls and texts. Sora never snobs anyone, not even his'haters'. Like I said, you mean a lot to him, but perhaps even that is an understatement, so he won't just ignore you for no reason."
With that, Naminé finally decided to listen to Roxas and relax. The boy did make a lot of good points. Maybe she just overreacted.
"I guess so. Maybe I just overreacted…" Naminé trailed.
"That's actually a good thing. You wouldn't have overreacted if you didn't care so much about my brother in the first place. It's normal to overreact when a very important person is involved."
Naminé's blush returned. She nodded in agreement and smiled at Roxas again. "Hm, thanks Roxas. You have no idea how lighter I feel on the inside because of your words."
"No problem, that's what friends are for, right?"
"Yeah, sure is." was Naminé's reply.
"So is that the only reason why you're here?"
"Well…" Naminé hesitated to share her predicament with the blond. It's not that she didn't trust him, it's just that she didn't feel as if she's…ready?
Roxas only looked at her, resisting the urge to force everything out of her. To his content, Naminé relented.
"My sister's asking me to tryout for the women's volleyball team this year" Naminé explained
"Oh, I see. So why not do so?"
"Seriously?" Naminé looked at him alarmingly "The players on the volleyball team are like a million times better than I am."
"You'll never know until you try. But if you're really worried, why not decline your sister's offer? I'm not saying you can't make it, but if you really don't want to, then don't."
"But this is where my love for volleyball comes in. I'm not exactly good at the sport, but I've played it before and it really makes me happy when I play." Naminé mentally added the fact that she wanted to be an athlete partly because she wanted to somehow keep up with Sora on the social ladder. Since she has a…significant other who's an athlete, why not be one too? She knew that it sounded childish, stupid even, but she was slightly self-conscious.
"That's ends your predicament then. I suggest you go for it."
"But still! I look like a pogo stick compared to the players on the team." Naminé whined.
"I understand, but I don't think volleyball players rely solely on strength to play. I mean, I've never actually played the sport, so I dunno. Sorry, I'm just trying to help."
"Aw, you're so sweet. Thank you so much." Naminé thanked with another kind smile.
Roxas scratched the back of his head. "Er, sure, no problem."
"You do have a point, but I'm just totally different from the average volleyball player. Heck, I can barely keep up with my sister and she claims that she's horrible at the sport."
"Sometimes being different has its advantages." Roxas said, a distant look on his face. "In my opinion, being different means that people will tend to overlook you, which is a great thing. Because when that happens, nobody's talking about you, nobody's pressuring you into doing anything-you're basically free as opposed to having the spotlight where everyone has his/her eyes on you." Roxas explained calmly. He was surprised at his own behavior. He's never shared his insight regarding a particular matter to another human being apart from his family members. Maybe it's because Naminé treated him differently. She was actually one of the first people who didn't treat him like trash. Roxas believed that was the reason why he was a little more open to her. Also, it's been a long time since he's ever shared his own opinion, it's as if the floodgates just opened now and he's taking advantage.
Naminé was taken aback. The blond beside her made another good point. Geez, when did he become so smart? Also, how come he's the youngest among his siblings? Naminé started to admire how he thinks and how he voices out his opinion. "You're right. Wow, how did you become so good at this?"
"I'm not. I'm just saying what I think."
"Speaking of sports, do you play a particular one yourself?"
Roxas again debated on whether he should tell Naminé the truth or not. Then again, he already had an excuse planned out for his parents, might as well use the same one on Naminé. He admitted that he wasn't ready to tell anyone about his…athletic progression. "Oh no. I'm not really an athlete unlike the rest of my family. I'm a little more…normal."
"Really? But Roxas, you saved me from an incoming football yesterday! That has to count for something. Your clothes also seem to say so."
"I really don't play sports, I swear. As for my clothes, I just went out for a run. That's actually why I'm still here at this hour."
"Ah, may I ask why?"
"Sure. I just needed to do something to help my mind relax. School just started and I'm already getting tired of it." Naminé giggled at his remarks.
"I feel you. Unlike you though, I draw instead of running."
"Oh, that's nice. Wow, so you're a volleyball player, an artist, and from what I know, an honor student. You got the whole package. No wonder Sora's acting like your puppy."
Naminé blushed again. "I…appreciate it."
"You don't happen to have a watch with you, do you? May I ask what time it is?" Roxas asked as he remembered his family.
Naminé flipped out her phone and her eyes widened. "It's already nine-fifteen!"
Roxas' eyes widened as well. "Oh man…"
"I really had a nice time with you, Roxas, but I'm gonna have to go home before my parents find out I'm here."
"You sneaked your way out?" Naminé nodded embarrassingly. "Sure, come on, I'll walk you home."
Naminé's blush returned for the millionth time. Her eyes widened and she shook her head. "Oh no no no, I'll be fine. Thank you for you concern, but isn't your family looking for you too? I don't want to get you in trouble. You should go home, I'll take care of myself."
Unfortunately, Roxas seemed unconvinced. "It's no bother, Naminé. I'm late, no harm in being a little more than I already am. Besides, it's dangerous here at night, like I said. Also, Sora's going to kill me if anything happened to you."
Naminé refused. "It's alright, Roxas. I'll be fine, promise. I can take care of myself."
"No, I'm going with you."
Naminé sighed and relented. She didn't want to argue any longer. Arguing further will only increase the likelihood of her getting caught. "Fine, let's go, but I'm really sorry for bothering you."
"No big deal. Come on."
Naminé grabbed her sketchbook and lead the way for Roxas. The two continued to chatter about school, summer and even their plans for this school year. Soon enough, the two arrived at Naminé's house. Naminé told Roxas to leave her since she was already home, but Roxas responded by saying that he's not leaving until she gets to her room. With another roll of her eyes, Naminé obliged.
After climbing up to her room via pipes, she waved turned to Roxas. With a wave, she spoke silently "Thanks for tonight, Roxas! Please be careful on the way home. I'll see you tomorrow!"
Roxas only waved back before turning on his heels and making his way back.
With a smile, he concluded that it had been a crazy night.
A/N: There you have it! A few things; some of you might wonder why Roxas suddenly became an amiable persona, I will reiterate-it's because Naminé has been kind to him and he's returning the favor. Another; you might have noticed that Roxas' dialogue seemed a little too formal, that's because he's an introvert. Also, I hope you guys enjoy the VentusXSerah pairing I came up with. I've been waiting to write about those two since I started this story. There's also a reason why I included Ventus' and Vanitas' situations. Everything written is connected to Roxas and how he will develop as a character. I will eventually expand on those as this story progresses. Please read and review, happy holidays everyone!