Calls from the Heart


On the horizon, a majestic and exquisite day unfolds, where perfection manifests in every detail. The wind, full of life, stirs in every corner it finds, gently caressing the trees, flowers, and birds entwined in a magical dance. The sun, radiant and dazzling, illuminates with a brilliant intensity, banishing every trace of darkness, enveloping everything in its warm embrace. It's a day that seems to have been plucked from a dream, where each element harmoniously merges to create a perfect experience. However, for a young man with spiky hair lying in his bed, this day is not as idyllic.

"I assure you I'm fine..." murmured the dark-haired youth, lying in his bed, while Riku and Kairi stood upright before him.

"Sora, you have a high fever, not to mention that cough," Kairi said, holding a thermometer delicately in her hands.

"And you're experiencing muscle pain and fatigue," added Riku, sighing deeply as he tried to comprehend how Sora had fallen so ill.

Intrigued by Riku's perception of his symptoms, Sora inquired, not understanding how his friend could be aware of his muscle pain and fatigue since he hadn't mentioned those discomforts before.

"How do you know that I'm experiencing muscle pain and fatigue?" questioned Sora, puzzled by Riku's unexpected revelation.

"You have obvious symptoms of the flu, which makes it understandable that you're experiencing muscle pain and fatigue. Besides, you just confirmed it yourself, genius," replied Riku, enunciating his clever deduction with confidence. Perplexed, Sora silently nodded at his friend's ingenious strategy.

Meanwhile, Sora began to recall the previous night when he stayed out late and, to top it off, slept without proper cover, exposed to the harsh cold. He wondered how he had ended up falling so sick.

"I don't know," Sora replied with evident falsehood, determined not to reveal that the responsibility lay with Terra, Aqua, and Ven. "But I assure you it's nothing. I don't need to spend the whole day in bed," he added, sighing resignedly and starting to get up from his bed, intending to go outside and enjoy the splendid day. However, his misfortune seemed to catch up with him as before he could take a single step, Kairi placed her right hand on the chest of the blue-eyed youth and gently pushed him back onto the bed.

"I warn you, don't even think about getting up. Just admit that you're sick, period," Kairi said with seriousness, showing her determination. The girl with red hair spoke those words with a firm tone, making it clear that there was no room for negotiation. Upon the comment, Sora only furrowed his brow in annoyance, resigned to spending the whole day in bed. At times, Kairi reflected on her role in Sora and Riku's lives, feeling like a kind of maternal figure to them.

"Look, the more you take care of yourself, the faster you'll recover," Riku intervened, capturing Sora's attention with his words. The young man with white hair spoke with conviction, conveying a clear and forceful message. "So, you better listen to us, or else you'll have to spend more days confined to this bed," Riku warned. Sora let out a huff at the statement, silently acknowledging that Riku was right. If he took proper care of himself, he could speed up his recovery and escape the woes of that unpleasant flu sooner.

"Fine... cough... cough... I hate this," mumbled Sora, with his arms crossed on the bed, as he directed his gaze towards a window in the room. The young man sighed, feeling a mix of frustration and longing as he looked out at the splendid day unfolding beyond the glass. "It's such a beautiful day, and here I am, stuck in this bed..." he lamented softly, releasing a sigh of resignation.

"Stop complaining already," Kairi mentioned energetically, heading towards the door of Sora's room, followed closely by Riku. "I'll go to my room. Call me if you need anything," she declared before leaving the room.

"Same here. If you need anything, call me," Riku added, offering his support before also disappearing from the room.

Sora, now alone in his bed, was immersed in a mix of boredom and discomfort. Letting out a sudden sneeze, he expressed his discontent with the situation. "I hate this," he murmured as he adjusted himself in bed, seeking some relief in his position. The idea of finding solace in sleep began to take shape in his mind. "Maybe if I sleep a bit, I might feel better afterwards," he quietly reflected. With that intention in mind, the young man with blue eyes began to slowly close his eyelids, allowing himself to be carried away by sleep until he finally fell into a deep rest on his bed.


Outside their home, we see Ven and Terra engaged in a lively game of tag, making the most of the splendid day unfolding before them. According to Ven, it was crucial to take advantage of the magnificence of the weather, and what better way to do that than by playing under the radiant sun that illuminated that day. On the other hand, Aqua chose to enjoy the tranquility of her favorite spot, immersing herself in reading a book. Deep inside, she felt that she wasn't in the mood to run or engage in similar activities on that special day. Instead, she decided it would be better to dedicate some time to reading and relaxing, savoring the charm of that perfect day.

"Come on, Terra, you're so slow!" teased Ven as he moved around at great speed, agile like the wind.

"Who are you calling slow? You'll see," responded Terra, picking up speed and chasing Ven with even more determination.

While this exciting scene unfolded, Aqua, absorbed in her reading amidst the tranquility of that paradisiacal setting, was finishing the romance book she had started not long ago.

"Definitely, this is the fastest book I've ever read," Aqua mentioned to herself, gently closing the book in her hands. As usual, the book seemed good to her, though not without some imperfections. Her extensive experience in reading had led her to develop a somewhat critical stance towards the stories she explored. Aqua, in her eagerness to evaluate and rate the books she read, would give it a score of 9 out of 10. However, there were only two books she considered perfect and deserving of the highest rating of 10 out of 10, at least from her own perspective. "The ending was so beautiful. Who would have imagined that the girl belonged to a different time than the boy?" Aqua reflected, letting out a slight smile of satisfaction. With the book finished, she got up from her spot and walked purposefully towards her home to return the copy to its rightful place.

As Aqua approached her house, she spotted Terra tirelessly chasing Ven in an attempt to catch him, but without success so far. Watching the scene with an amused smile, Aqua continued on her way inside her home. She went up to her room and placed the book she had just finished back in its designated spot. Then, she descended again and stepped outside. Once outside, she immersed herself in deep reflection, trying to find an activity to fill the void of her free time. She pondered different options, but none of the ideas seemed to stand out. Even inspecting her garden, which she had already examined in the morning, didn't seem like an appealing choice at that moment. Aqua was in a moment of uncertainty, with no clear plans or immediate inspiration to guide her.

Ventus's call interrupted Aqua's thoughts, and she noticed the wide smile adorning the boy's lips, denoting genuine happiness. "Aqua, please play with Terra and me. It will be fun," Ven pleaded, looking at her with eyes full of enthusiasm.

Aqua reflected for a moment because, although she initially had no desire to run around and had already expressed her lack of interest in participating, she knew that both Ven and Terra would persist if they saw her doing nothing. At that moment, she considered that playing a little might not be a bad idea. Besides, it had been a long time since she joined in Terra and Ven's games. Unlike previous occasions when she remained firm in her refusal to participate, this time, the circumstances were different. Perhaps it was because she felt more lively than on previous days, and that spark of energy and vitality urged her to join the fun.

"Okay, but just for a while," Aqua emphasized, stating her conditions. In response to her answer, Ven nodded excitedly, radiating happiness like never before. To be honest, Ven never expected a positive response, so the joy of knowing that Aqua was willing to join the game filled him with renewed enthusiasm.

"Awesome! Terra will chase us, and we'll escape!" exclaimed Ven with a wide smile, while Aqua nodded in agreement. "Terra, Aqua will play, so now you'll have to catch both of us!" warned the blonde to the brunette, who responded with a smile, pleased that Aqua joined the fun. This news filled his heart with joy, reminiscing about the times when the three of them shared games without worries or troubles, a time when harmony and camaraderie reigned.

"Of course! You better be fast!" Terra exclaimed with enthusiasm, running towards them. At that moment, both Aqua and Terra realized that quite some time had passed since the last time they all shared a moment like that, playing together without any obstacles or worries.

"Quick, Aqua, run!" Ventus excitedly shouted, starting a fast-paced chase as he and Aqua began running together, unleashing a torrent of laughter and fun.

"I've got you!" announced Terra, extending his arm in an attempt to catch Aqua's arm. However, she quickly noticed his move and skillfully evaded, increasing her speed in the process. "Not fair," Terra expressed with a mix of disappointment and admiration for not being able to catch Aqua, watching her swiftly move away from him.

"Come on, Terra, you're too slow," Aqua mentioned with a smile as she distanced herself further.

"I'll get both of you, just wait!" Terra declared with determination, shifting his focus to Ventus. Without further delay, they restarted their frantic game, this time with Terra chasing Ven. Minutes passed with an incessant race, not stopping, moving from one place to another with overflowing energy and a camaraderie that only true friends can share.

Finally, exhausted and exhilarated by the intensity of the game, all three collapsed onto the soft grass, seeking relief in their well-deserved rest. Lying there, their labored breaths blended with the whisper of the wind as they gazed up at the blue sky stretched above them.

In the end, despite Terra's energetic effort, he couldn't catch Aqua and Ventus. Both youths were panting and out of breath from the physical exertion, but they couldn't hide the wide smiles of satisfaction on their faces. Ven, breathing heavily, glanced at Terra, making it clear that he had enjoyed every second of the game.

"In the end... you couldn't... catch us, Terra," said Ven with a strained voice, his smile blending with fatigue on his face. Though his body called for rest, the joy in his eyes was evident.

"Next time... I'll catch... both of you," Terra expressed between gasps, his voice filled with determination. Despite exhaustion showing on his face, there was no room for defeat. Terra's competitive spirit was clearly intact. "You... just got... lucky."

Aqua, still panting and trying to regulate her breath, joined the conversation. "Sure... yeah," she said, letting out a slightly teasing smile as she wiped the sweat off her forehead with her sleeve. It was undeniable that the intensity of the race had pushed them to their limits, and Aqua could feel the adrenaline still coursing through her veins. It had been a long time since she had exerted herself in that way.

"I wish Sora were here," Ven mentioned, his words carrying a hint of longing in the air. Aqua and Terra exchanged curious glances, surprised by the sudden reference to the young brunet. "I mean, yesterday we hardly played as much as I did now with you guys."

Terra, with his reflective nature, suggested, "Why don't you call him? Maybe he can come."

Ven, however, shook his head, expressing his concern. "Nah, I don't want to bother him. I'm sure he's busy." His words brought a slight disappointment to Aqua's expression, who longed for Sora to return or at least hear his voice in any circumstance.

"I don't think so. You know how Sora is, he gets bored easily. Come on, call him and see what he says," Terra insisted. One of the reasons he wanted Sora to be there was that his presence brightened the atmosphere in a special way. Yesterday, when he was at the house with them, everything became livelier and brighter. He even noticed Aqua more full of life than ever, and he loved that. It was as if Sora carried happiness with him wherever he went, a talent only he could possess.

"Okay, although he's probably busy," Ven replied, pulling out his Gummiphone from one of his pockets and searching for Sora's contact. "Here it is," he said as he dialed the number. Looking at the device in his hands, Ven couldn't help but think about how wonderful the idea of having Gummiphones had been. It had undoubtedly been a brilliant choice to stay connected and strengthen their friendship despite the distances.

The air filled with a sense of anticipation as Ven waited for Sora to answer on the other side of the line.


RING RING RING

The insistent sound of the Gummiphone interrupted Sora's sleep, and his eyes slowly opened, still drowsy. Frowning slightly, he wondered what could be happening to justify such an interruption to his well-deserved rest. It was no secret that Sora cherished his moments of sleep and considered them sacred, and he detested being awakened without a justified reason. The mere fact that someone woke him up while he was sleeping was enough to ignite a spark of irritation within him.

With slow yet determined movements, Sora reached for the nightstand and grabbed the Gummiphone, feeling the weight of the device in his hands. As the screen lit up, his face reflected a mixture of drowsiness and curiosity. "Hmm? What's going on?" he asked sleepily, trying to discern who might be responsible for this interruption to his rest.

Ven's name appeared on the screen, and Sora furrowed his brow, struggling to clear his mind and fully wake up. What reason could Ven have for calling him at such an inconvenient time? Despite his initial irritation, Sora knew that his friend wouldn't contact him without a good reason. With a resigned sigh, he decided to answer the call.

"Yes?" he finally responded, his voice still laden with drowsiness but with a hint of curiosity.


"Hey Sora, it's me, Ven!" greeted Ventus cheerfully, letting out a sigh of relief upon hearing his friend's voice on the other end of the line.

"Put it on speaker," whispered Terra, feeling the need to hear his dear friend's voice too. Aqua nodded in agreement, sharing the same longing to hear Sora and make sure he was okay. Ventus followed Terra's suggestion, putting the Gummiphone on speaker mode, allowing all three friends to hear clearly without missing any details of the conversation.

"Hey, Ven..." Sora responded from the Gummiphone, his voice drowsy and slightly congested, evidence of his health condition.

Worry flooded the expressions of Ven, Aqua, and Terra upon noticing the change in Sora's voice. It was clear that something wasn't right.

"Are you okay? You sound a bit off," Ven asked, getting straight to the point, aware that something was amiss with his friend's usual state.

"Don't worry about it, Ven. Did something happen?" Sora replied with a subdued tone, trying to downplay his health condition. However, his voice betrayed his discomfort, further worrying his friends.

"Hey, do you want to come and play with Terra, Aqua, and me?" Ven asked eagerly, hoping for a positive response from his friend and wanting company and entertainment to lift Sora's spirits.

"I'd love to, Ven, but I'm not feeling too well... cough... cough... I'm a bit sick," confessed Sora between coughs, his voice sounding weak and fragile.

Upon hearing that Sora's health wasn't in good condition, a deep concern gripped Ven, Terra, and especially Aqua. Worry filled Aqua's heart as she understood the situation and wondered how severe Sora's illness could be. His voice, which usually resonated with joy and vitality, now sounded dim and feeble, which was highly unusual for him. This sudden change alarmed Aqua even more, knowing that Sora was a person full of energy and vibrancy, and seeing him weakened and affected by illness was cause for great concern.

"Hey, if you want, I can come see you," Ven offered with overflowing generosity. As a true and concerned friend, his protective instinct urged him to take care of Sora in his time of sickness. Ven understood the importance of providing physical and emotional support to loved ones, and his desire to help Sora was genuine. Their friendship had been solidified through numerous shared experiences, making him one of Sora's closest friends, after Terra and Aqua, of course.

"No, don't worry, Ven. I don't want you to expose yourself and get sick because of me. There's no need for you to come," Sora responded, politely but firmly declining the proposal. Though he appreciated Ven's gesture, Sora didn't want his friend to take unnecessary risks on his behalf.

Ven accepted Sora's refusal, but his concern was still evident in his words: "Okay, take care of yourself and follow Riku and Kairi's instructions, alright?" Ven wished for Sora to take his recovery seriously and trust in the care he was receiving from those around him.

"Don't worry, I will. Trust me, they won't take their eyes off me... cough... cough... See you. We'll play together next time," Sora said, trying to infuse a tone of encouragement into his voice. Despite feeling unwell, he didn't want Ven to worry more than necessary and wanted to convey a sense of optimism and hope.

"Sure, take care," Ven responded, knowing that Sora needed rest and care to recover, and then ended the call.

"Poor Sora, I can't even imagine how bored and sick he must be right now," Ven mentioned, his eyes reflecting compassion as he looked at Terra and Aqua.

"Yes, maybe when he's feeling a bit better, you could go and visit him, Ven," Terra suggested, trying to offer a ray of hope and relief amidst the situation. His words were met with a sincere smile from Ven.

"Definitely," Ven replied determinedly.

The day seemed to pass normally for the three friends as they immersed themselves in their daily activities, playing and doing household tasks just like any other day. However, amidst the apparent normalcy, a young woman with blue hair couldn't get the blue-eyed boy out of her mind. This time, it wasn't just a casual thought; it was genuine concern for his well-being. Aqua longed to know how Sora was doing, if he was feeling okay, and if he was taking care of himself properly. She simply wanted to know his current state, as the conversation with Ven had left her uneasy upon learning about Sora's illness. She, more than anyone, understood the reasons behind her concern.

The previous night, while they were talking under the starlight, Sora had been exposed to the cold night wind without realizing the need to bundle up properly before sleeping. In contrast, Aqua had made sure to have her own blanket, and now she felt a twinge of remorse for not sharing it with him.

"How is he?" she wondered quietly as she lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling. Worries invaded her mind, and uncertainty tormented her. She fervently wished to know if Sora was truly unwell due to the consequences of that cold night. Restlessness filled her being, urging her to find answers.

Finally, an idea illuminated her mind, and she got up from her bed with determination. She headed to one of her closets, searching for something specific.

"It must be here somewhere!" Aqua whispered to herself as she rummaged through the drawers of her closet. Finally, her determination bore fruit as she found what she had been longing for. With a joyful expression on her face, she pulled her discovery out of one of the drawers and sat on her bed. She looked at the object in her hands with curiosity, wondering how it was meant to be used. It was a Gumiphone, a device she remembered receiving alongside her friends. However, she had never felt the need to use it for communication until now.

"Let's see... it seems to turn on here," Aqua murmured as she pressed a button on the side of the Gumiphone. With a flash of light, the device came to life, displaying a variety of functions and features she was completely unfamiliar with. It was a whole new world for her. Now, she faced the question of how to make a call through that device. Aqua began to explore each function of the Gumiphone with her finger, tapping and navigating through the various options with determination and patience.

After several attempts, she finally found what she had been searching for. It was the contacts directory, where the phone numbers of her friends were stored.

Aqua looked at the screen of her Gumiphone, where the names and numbers of all her friends were displayed. Roxas, Xion, Ventus, Terra, Kairi... They were all there, perfectly stored in her directory. That contact list became a treasure for her at that moment, as it gave her the reassurance that she could call Sora without any obstacles.

Now that I reflect on it, I wonder if it would be a good idea. I mean, how will he react if I call him out of the blue? Aqua immersed herself in her thoughts, weighing the pros and cons of calling Sora. On one hand, she longed to know how he was doing, but on the other hand, she feared the reaction he might have to an unexpected call.

She looked at her Gumiphone for a moment, searching for Sora's number. With determination, she pressed the number and found herself facing the call button, which she had to press to establish communication. Aqua put on a serious expression, bringing one of her delicate fingers towards the call button on her device. She was determined to do it, to finally call the brunet. She felt that it was something she had to do.

However, just as she was about to press the button, uncertainty washed over her, and she withdrew her hand disappointedly. "I can't do it," Aqua whispered as she lay back on her bed, staring at the ceiling once again. Fear and insecurity overwhelmed her, filling her heart with doubts and worries.

"Oh, but of course I can," Aqua whispered in a burst of courage and determination. She clutched her Gumiphone once more, determined not to be defeated by her own fears. With a glimmer of determination in her eyes, she brought her finger towards the call button, convinced that she was capable of facing any obstacle that stood in her way.

However, a slight hesitation overcame her, and her hand trembled slightly. "I can't!" Aqua whispered with a sigh of frustration, removing her finger from the call button and dropping her Gumiphone onto the bed with a gesture of discouragement. She questioned herself, wondering why something as simple as making a call could seem so complicated. In a self-critical whisper, she thought out loud, "Why is it so difficult for me? At the end of the day, it's just a call... But it seems like I'm turning into one of those typical bookish girls I read about..."

As she lost herself in her thoughts, a soft and melodious sound resonated in the room, catching her attention and breaking the silence that enveloped her. Aqua looked up with curiosity.

A soft gasp of surprise escaped Aqua's lips as she gracefully rose from her bed, chasing the origin of the charming sound that had captured her attention. Her curious gaze swept across the room in search of the mysterious source. "What could it be?" she wondered, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness pulsating in her chest.

Her eyes lit up with hope as her fingers closed around her beloved Gumiphone, resting on the bed. With a quickened heartbeat, Aqua looked at the screen, where Sora's number shone with an unexpected message: "Calling Sora."

Surprise washed over her, mixed with a sweet nervousness. Destiny seemed to conspire in her favor, offering her a chance to communicate with the person who inhabited her thoughts and emotions. However, a feeling of insecurity took hold of her, leaving her breathless and filled with doubts.

"What should I do now?" Aqua whispered, the room enveloped in a soft halo of dim light, while the young woman's thoughts danced to the rhythm of her accelerated heart. What could she say to Sora? With each turn she took, the world seemed to narrow around her, confining her in a whirlwind of emotions. It was as if time had stood still, and the only sound lingering in the atmosphere was the soft hum of the Gumiphone in her hands.

Words entangled in her mind, playing hide-and-seek amid her restlessness. The blue-haired girl longed to express her deepest feelings, but ideas seemed to elude her like butterflies in flight. She knew that this call was a crucial moment, an opportunity to open her heart and reveal the sincerity of her emotions. However, the fear of the unknown paralyzed her.

/

Amidst the solitude enveloping his room, the young brunet found himself immersed in a sea of restless thoughts. The silence seemed to accentuate his sense of abandonment, and a shadow of disappointment and confusion darkened his gaze.

"This is boring..." he murmured, his tone laden with disillusionment. His words, sighs floating in the air, mingled with the echo of his tangled thoughts. How could it be that Kairi and Riku, his inseparable companions, had left him all alone?

The young man had tried to reach out to them in every possible way, dialing their numbers repeatedly, but his calls remained suspended in the void. They had left him alone at home and had gone who knows where.

RING RING RING

The soft chime of the phone broke the serenity of the room, rousing Sora from his thoughts. He turned his gaze and, with curiosity, found his Gumiphone resting on the bedside table, ready to receive a new phone call. He wondered if it would be Ventus again who was calling. With a sigh, Sora stretched delicately and took the device in his hands, only to discover that the person on the other end of the line was none other than the enchanting girl with blue hair who had completely captured his heart: Aqua.

"A-Aqua..." Sora stammered, his voice filled with astonishment and excitement. The mere mention of her name resonated within him, causing a warm shiver to run through every fiber of his being. The dilemma took hold of his mind as he weighed whether or not to answer the call. However, an inner voice gently reminded him, "Sora, how can you hesitate? Of course, you must answer."

With a hastened heartbeat and trembling hands, Sora pressed the delicate button on his Gumiphone, accepting the call and allowing their voices to meet.


Aqua, upon hearing Sora's voice through the Gumiphone, couldn't help but let a sweet smile grace her face. For some reason, her heart raced slightly, and she felt a flutter of nervousness within.

"H-Hi, Sora," Aqua spoke, trying to disguise her nervousness as best as she could. She wanted to appear calm and composed in front of him, but her voice betrayed a slight tremor.

"What prompted your call?" Sora asked kindly.

"Uh, well... I just wanted to, um, know how you were," Aqua stammered, struggling to find the right words. On the other end of the line, Sora simply smiled, understanding that Aqua had called to make sure he was doing well. Damn, Aqua had definitely captured his heart with her charm. It was incredibly endearing that she cared so much about him.

"Oh, well, I'm fine, though a little under the weather, but nothing serious," Sora responded sincerely. Those words made Aqua feel both relieved and concerned at the same time.

"I'm really glad that you care about me, Aqua. It's truly sweet and adorable of you," Sora admitted, unaware of the shy expression that appeared on Aqua's cheeks at his comment. Fortunately, he couldn't see her blush, but it didn't diminish the charm of the scene.

"Y-You know, when you feel a bit better, maybe... maybe I could come and see you and, you know, take care of you a little," Aqua said timidly, feeling her heart pounding. Damn, only Sora could bring out that shy side of her, something no one had managed to do so far. Sora, with a radiant smile, eagerly accepted Aqua's proposal.

"Y-Yes, if you want!" she clarified quickly.

"Oh, that sounds wonderful to me, no problem," Sora responded with a smile that lit up his face. The mere idea of Aqua taking care of him sparked a sense of sweetness in his heart, and he could vividly imagine it in his mind. It was so adorable that Aqua would willingly and lovingly care for him. Just imagining how she would arrive, dedicated and attentive, to provide him with care like an exemplary nurse or doctor, made his heart race with a mixture of excitement and love.

It's possible he's letting himself be carried away by his imagination, but it's inevitable. A young man in love has the ability to create countless romantic scenarios in his mind, each one more wonderful than the last. Every thought, every vision of Aqua taking care of him with tenderness and affection fills his being with overwhelming happiness. Every detail, from her compassionate gaze to her gentle hands, creates a symphony of love in his heart, beating to the rhythm of a dreamy lover.

Sora allowed his mind to stop wandering and soar through the clouds, deciding to change the course of the conversation. With a soft and tender voice, he asked, "On a different note, have you taken good care of the necklace?" The mention of that precious necklace touched the most sensitive fibers of his being. He couldn't describe the deep emotional connection he had with that object, and the mere idea of something bad happening to it caused him indescribable unease. However, he trusted Aqua completely and her ability to protect it, knowing it would be safe in her hands. Still, in his heart, he longed to ensure 100% that the necklace was in perfect condition, being cared for with the same love and devotion he had for it.

"Oh, of course, the necklace. I've taken exceptional care of it, I haven't taken it off for a second," Aqua replied with a sweet smile on her lips as she delicately caressed the crown-shaped necklace adorning her neck. Just as she had promised Sora, she protected it with unwavering love. From the moment Sora gave it to her, Aqua hadn't taken it off, not even for a shower, demonstrating her total commitment.

On the other side of the conversation, Sora felt relieved to hear Aqua's words and know that she was taking great care of his most precious treasure. A warm smile appeared on his face, radiating gratitude and trust.

"I know, and what about Tenma?" Sora asked with interest, referring to the beautiful blue rose.

"Oh, I'll water her a little more in a while, along with the other plants," Aqua replied with a radiant smile. Her eyes gleamed with love and dedication for her garden. "Why do you ask?" she inquired curiously.

"I just wanted to make sure she's doing well. But if you're her caretaker, then there won't be any problem," Sora expressed with a tender and confident smile. Upon recalling the childlike happiness on Sora's face when he saw the blue flower in her garden, Aqua decided to play along and tease him a bit.

Then, with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, Aqua playfully responded, "You flatter me, kid" teasing Aqua, a mischievous giggle escaping her lips as a sweet smile illuminated her face. At that precise moment, Sora, on the other end of the call, blinked several times, surprised by the affectionate nickname Aqua had just bestowed upon him.

"Hey, what do you mean 'kid'?" Sora complained, pretending to be offended by Aqua's remark.

"It's what you are," Aqua continued teasingly, her voice brimming with sweetness and playfulness. Each word spoken was like a pet name for Sora, a way of playfully reinforcing their special bond. Sora slightly furrowed his brow, pretending to be annoyed by the nickname.

"Haha, yeah, sure, whatever you say, scaredy-cat," Sora replied with a sarcastic laugh, countering Aqua's teasing. He wasn't going to let Aqua be the only one who could play that game.

However, Sora's comment caused Aqua to huff, feeling a bit annoyed at being called a "scaredy-cat." Although deep down, she knew it was all part of their game, a small annoyance showed on her face. On the other end of the call, Sora couldn't contain his laughter, finding Aqua's cute irritation adorable.

"You're not the only one who can tease, Aqua," Sora remarked, his smile shining mischievously.

"Touche," Aqua admitted with a sweet smile, acknowledging Sora's ability to counter her teasing. She decided to set that game aside for the moment and move on to a new topic of conversation, wanting to maintain an atmosphere full of sweetness and camaraderie with the boy.

"So, what do you plan to do now?" Aqua asked curiously, seeking to start a new conversation and leave the teasing behind for a moment.

"Well, to be honest, I don't know... There's not much I can do right now," Sora responded with a slight sigh, acknowledging the limitations he had. "If Kairi and Riku see me getting up, they'll get mad at me."

"Well, maybe this call was a good idea then. At least you have someone to talk to," Aqua remarked with a slight smile as she settled into her room, climbing onto her bed and sitting down.

"You're right, you always cheer me up, even when we're far apart," Sora replied with a warm and sincere smile. Those words touched Aqua's heart, leaving her puzzled as she blinked several times in amazement. According to her, it was the opposite: Sora was the one who cheered her up, who gave her strength and joy in the most difficult moments. How could it be that Sora felt the opposite?

With a look of uncertainty, Aqua decided to voice her question: "I cheer you up?" Her words floated in the air, seeking answers and dispelling the shadows that clouded her mind.

Sora, with his characteristic tenderness and a hint of blush on his cheeks, responded with a radiant smile, "Of course, just hearing your voice fills me with joy and enthusiasm." In that moment, if Riku or any of their friends had been present, they wouldn't have missed the chance to tease him. However, luck was on his side, as neither Riku nor Kairi were there to witness that intimate moment.

Aqua, intoxicated by Sora's sincerity, responded with a warm smile on her lips, while a slight rosy blush adorned her cheeks. "I'm glad to hear that. It's gratifying to know that I can be a source of encouragement for someone." Her words flowed with sweetness, and in them echoed the genuine desire to provide support and encouragement to Sora. It didn't matter if his words were spoken out of courtesy or if they emanated from a deeper place in Sora's heart; what filled her with happiness was knowing that she also had the power to cheer him up, just as he did for her.

With an explosion of enthusiasm, Sora raised his voice as a wide smile appeared on his face: "And you'll cheer me up even more when you come to see me!" The words resonated with a mix of excitement and longing.

Aqua, with a barely perceptible tenderness in her voice, whispered, "I promise, I'll come to see you." Her words slipped softly like a warm breeze.

Sora, with a determined expression in his eyes, sought reassurance, "It's a promise, alright?" His words were a soft but profound echo, filled with the hope of sealing that pact of meeting.

"Yes... a promise," Aqua replied with a gentle smile, letting the warmth and certainty infuse each syllable. At that moment, a glimmer of nostalgia and longing was present in her crystalline gaze. It had been a long time since she had shared a promise with someone.

In the majesty of the beaches of Destiny Islands, two figures emerged on the horizon. A young man with pale hair and a charming maiden with fiery red tresses strolled along, engaged in a peaceful conversation.

Kairi, concerned about the possible setbacks that might arise upon their return, shared her worries in a hushed tone. Though she fervently wished that Sora had not gotten out of bed, she feared that his occasional tendency for irresponsibility might lead to negative consequences for his health. Having been Sora's girlfriend in the past, Kairi knew firsthand the occasional reckless nature that could surface in him.

"Riku, I sincerely hope Sora hasn't decided to leave his bed," Kairi expressed with a hint of concern. She fully recognized the consequences that could arise if Sora had defied the medical instructions. However, despite her knowledge of her ex-boyfriend's nature, she also dreaded the discontent and reprimands that awaited them for leaving home without notifying him.

In response, Riku drew a serene smile on his face, attempting to reassure Kairi in this moment of uncertainty. "Don't worry, Kairi," he assured with a comforting tone. "Sora knows the consequences that would follow if he dares to disobey the warnings."

"We left without telling him, even though I intended to do so, but you stopped me," Kairi mentioned as they headed towards the door of their home. "And all of this just because you wanted to go fishing," she added as she opened the house door.

"Hey, fish is beneficial for our health," Riku stated as he entered the house alongside Kairi, carrying a bucket filled with various fishes. "Eating fish will do us wonders."

"Your turn to cook," Kairi emphasized with determination, her voice resonating with a hint of demand and accumulated tiredness. Since they started sharing the same roof, she and Sora had become the main cooks, although in reality, it mostly fell on her due to Sora's tendency to succumb to laziness. While Sora possessed outstanding culinary skills acquired during his travels at the acclaimed Le Grand Bistro, his lack of motivation often hindered him from putting his learnings into practice.

Aware of this dynamic, Kairi regularly assumed the role of the cook, often finding herself in the position of a teacher, guiding Riku through the secrets of cooking on the rare occasions he ventured into that unknown territory. While this experience could be fun and rewarding, it also brought about exhaustion.

With a radiant smile, Riku joyfully replied, his voice resonating with confidence and satisfaction. "Of course, I'll take care of the cooking, Kairi," he proudly affirmed, puffing his chest slightly. "I'm sure they'll be amazed by my culinary skills," he added, showing his confidence in his own culinary prowess.

Nodding with a gentle smile, Kairi began to move around the house, walking decisively towards Sora's room. "I'll check on Sora," she announced with a serene and warm voice, her path guided by a sense of closeness and concern for her ex-boyfriend.

Meanwhile, Riku made his way to the kitchen with a mix of sarcasm and teasing in his tone of voice, his words dancing in the air like mischievous sparks. "Sure, sure, Mom..." he said ironically, hinting at a sense of complicity between him and Kairi, while also embracing his role in food preparation. With the fish in hand, he approached the kitchen counter, ready to face the culinary challenge ahead, aware that any mistake could awaken Kairi's dreaded wrath.

Sora's infectious laughter filled his room, filling the space with a tone of camaraderie. "Ha, ha, ha! Yeah, and then we had to rescue Riku from that log. It lasted the whole day," Sora shared, his voice full of fun and camaraderie. Memories of a past mischief unfolded in his mind, bonding the three friends in a unique camaraderie. "Since then, Riku refuses to play hide-and-seek with Kairi and me."

Kairi, on the other side of the door, wondered curiously who Sora might be talking to. Her ear pressed against the wooden surface, catching fragments of the conversation, fueling her intrigue. However, a flash of moral conscience reminded her of the importance of respecting Sora's privacy. Her thoughts turned introspective as she whispered to herself, "I should go... It's not right to eavesdrop on others' conversations." Despite this assertion, her curiosity didn't seem to diminish, and a part of her remained anchored to the door, tempted to hear more details of Sora's conversation.

Kairi struggled against her nosy impulse, reminding herself that Sora's privacy was a right she should respect. However, her longing to know Sora's thoughts and actions persisted. It was an inherent tendency in her nature, an innate curiosity that extended not only to Sora but also to Riku and their surroundings. Even though they were no longer a romantic couple and now considered each other practically siblings, Kairi felt the need to stay informed about Sora's actions, for reasons of safety and affection.

Whispering softly, almost as a secret shared with herself, Kairi silently admitted, "Maybe just a little longer." The temptation to hear more details of Sora's conversation was irresistible. In silence, she remained still, allowing her ears to catch every word spoken in the room.

With a radiant smile on his face, Sora made an unexpected invitation. "Hey, Aqua, when you come to the islands, can I tell you more about my adventures if you want?" he said with enthusiasm and a touch of anticipation in his voice.

Both Aqua and Kairi were surprised by Sora's proposal. For Aqua, the fact that Sora wanted to spend time with her and share his experiences was a gesture filled with meaning. The simple fact that Sora expressed his desire to tell her about his adventures hinted at a special connection and closeness that Aqua deeply valued. Surprise reflected in Aqua's eyes, revealing her gratitude and joy at receiving Sora's invitation.

On the other hand, Kairi was also taken aback to hear that Sora had been talking to Aqua. While it wasn't extraordinary in itself, the scarcity of interactions between Sora and Aqua had made this moment unusual for Kairi. It wasn't common to witness phone conversations between the two of them, let alone see them interact so cheerfully and confidently. This situation sparked Kairi's curiosity, leaving her wondering when they had started communicating so frequently.

"Oh, do you want to tell me more stories?" Aqua asked with intrigue, a small smile drawn on her lips. Excitement and curiosity reflected in her eyes as she awaited Sora's response.

"Absolutely!" exclaimed Sora with overflowing joy, his voice full of enthusiasm. The sparkle in his eyes revealed how excited he was to share more stories with Aqua. It was evident that he enjoyed every moment shared with her, and the fact that he could narrate adventures filled him with happiness.

"I really liked the stories you told me," admitted Aqua, her radiant smile still present. Every word, every detail of the stories woven by Sora had captivated her imagination and taken her to a world full of wonders. Sora's stories provided her an escape from reality and awakened her adventurous spirit.

"Then, when I recover, I can continue telling you more stories," declared Sora with determination and enthusiasm palpable through the receiver. Aqua could sense his vibrant energy and his sincere desire to keep his promise. For Sora, sharing his adventures with Aqua was a gift he would never tire of giving, no matter how many times he had to do it. He loved seeing her smile while listening to him talk.

"You're giving me too many promises to fulfill in such a short time, kid," Aqua playfully admitted, letting out a playful laugh. Sora once again felt puzzled to hear Aqua calling him "kid." What did she see in him to use that term? If he ever dared to ask, Aqua would have an endless list of reasons to back up her choice of nickname.

"Stop calling me 'kid,' I'm not a kid. I'm seventeen, a year younger than you. Stop calling me that," protested Sora, trying to maintain a serious expression while his brow furrowed slightly. But Aqua simply let out a small laugh, enjoying Sora's "annoyance" at her teasing.

"Sorry, kid... oops! I mean Sora," Aqua teased once again, laughing with contagious joy. Sora couldn't help but smile, even if her teasing annoyed him a little. Deep down, Aqua's pranks reminded him of how fun their bond could be and how much he enjoyed her playful spirit.

"Hey, it's not funny," said Sora, frowning in an attempt to seem upset by Aqua's teasing. However, his expression couldn't hide the mischievous glint in his eyes, revealing that he secretly appreciated how Aqua could bring out his playful and youthful side.

"Alright, alright, I'll stop. I like teasing you," Aqua admitted, laughing, while Sora sighed in relief that the teasing had come to an end. Both of them enjoyed this game of provocations, knowing that deep down, it was just a way to strengthen their complicity and mutual affection.

"I'll get my revenge someday," declared Sora with determination, as Aqua raised an eyebrow and smiled at Sora's brave statement.

"I want to see you try," challenged Aqua, showing her confidence in her abilities to face him. But Sora only smiled confidently, feeling a mischievous spark in his eyes.

"Just wait and see, when I'm better, I'll get back at you," declared Sora with a malicious laugh, making it clear that he wouldn't let the teasing go unanswered. However, that threat was loaded with complicity and affection, as both knew it was all part of a playful game.

"AQUA, FOOD IS READY!" Ventus's shout was heard in the distance through the Gummiphone, interrupting their pleasant conversation.

"Oh, Sora, I have to go, I'm sorry," Aqua apologized with a hint of sadness in her voice.

"Don't worry, go ahead. I hope we can talk again some other time," Sora replied with a smile full of love and understanding.

"I will, but remember, you can call me too," Aqua emphasized, wanting to maintain the beautiful bond they had created.

"Yes, of course I will," affirmed Sora sweetly, excited to have Aqua's permission to communicate with her whenever he wanted, just to enjoy her company.

"AQUA!" Ventus's shout came again, louder than before, revealing his impatience.

"I better go before Ven faints from all that shouting," Aqua joked, letting out a soft and contagious laugh, while Sora joined in the fun.

"See you, Sora. I love you," Aqua pronounced with a sweetness in her voice that melted hearts. Sora remained silent for a moment, processing the sincere and affectionate words Aqua had just expressed. His heart beat fast as he tried to understand the meaning behind those three little words. However, before he could gather his thoughts and respond, the call was abruptly cut off.

Completely embarrassed by her sudden declaration of love, Aqua felt her cheeks flush and her heart race. She regretted not thinking before speaking, but now she couldn't take it back. Her instinct had led her to express her true feelings for Sora, albeit in an unexpected way.

"Goodbye!" exclaimed Aqua, raising her voice hurriedly as she quickly hung up the call. She felt so vulnerable at that moment that she didn't know how to face Sora's reaction.

Sora, still taken aback by Aqua's "I love you," slowly removed the Gummiphone from his ear and held it in his hands. He let out a soft sigh as a tender smile appeared on his face, unable to contain the joy and affection he felt for Aqua.

"I love you too," he whispered into the air with an irresistible sweetness. The blush on his cheeks didn't fade, but now it was accompanied by a warm and comforting feeling in his heart.


Aqua slowly withdrew her hands from her face, which had covered her blushing cheeks after ending the call. She let out a sigh of relief as she reflected on what had just happened. Although embarrassment had initially consumed her, she now understood that expressing her feelings for Sora was something natural and beautiful.

"Did I really say that so casually?" Aqua whispered to herself, feeling a mixture of disbelief and excitement. "Well... I guess it's okay. After all, it's true, I love him... even though I'm not quite sure in what exact way."

Ventus's voice resonated through the house again, calling for Aqua more urgently than before. She responded immediately, shouting from her room to assure him that she was on her way. Then, she looked at the Gummiphone in her hand and decided to set it aside on her bed.

"It wasn't so bad," she told herself with a comforting smile. She felt a special warmth in her heart as she remembered the words she had shared with Sora. Although she didn't have all the answers and didn't know exactly how to define her feelings, she felt at peace with the honesty and openness she had shown.

With that smile on her face and a special twinkle in her eyes, Aqua left her room to join her companions.


"I can't wait for her to come see me," Sora whispered with an impatient smile, gently sinking into the bed. His gaze wandered up to the ceiling, and that silly grin still adorned his face. The blush on his cheeks was starting to fade, but his heart beat with a sweet warmth.

Not even a minute had passed since their last call, and Sora already desperately missed the sound of Aqua's sweet voice. He was hopelessly in love with her, which surprised him even. He increasingly realized that his feelings were deep and genuine, and he wondered how he could deal with them.

Time slowly faded as Sora imagined the moment Aqua would arrive to see him. He tenderly visualized every detail of her presence: her warm smile, her delicate touch on his cheek, the sparkle in her eyes when they met. Every thought of her was like a soft and comforting melody that caressed his heart, filling it with love and emotion.

"Sora," Kairi interrupted in the room with a smile, breaking Sora's thoughts of Aqua. However, instead of feeling annoyed by the interruption, Sora returned the smile to Kairi, welcoming her presence warmly.

"Hey, Kairi. You're here. They left without saying anything," Sora greeted, noticing Riku's absence.

"Sorry, Sora. You know how Riku is," Kairi replied, understanding the situation. However, her curiosity led her to ask, "Anyway, what were you doing? You seem quite happy."

Sora felt an internal dilemma upon hearing Kairi's question. Although he knew he could trust her completely, and their friendship had grown even stronger since they ended their romantic relationship, he wanted to keep his love for Aqua a secret until he was certain it could work out. For now, this would be his little big secret, kept jealously until he decided to share it with someone else.

"Oh, nothing important. I was just talking to Donald and Goofy," Sora lied, concealing his true thoughts and feelings. The reason behind this little lie was his desire to protect his love for Aqua, preserving it in a safe place until fate showed them the path they should follow.

Despite the lie, Sora knew that his relationship with Kairi was special. The trust between them had become unbreakable over time, and they practically told each other everything. However, this budding love for Aqua was a delicate matter that required his patience and discernment before it could be shared.

"Are you sure? You seem a bit flushed," the redhead asked again, watching as Sora nervously touched his cheek while giving a smile. To Kairi, it seemed odd that Sora wouldn't want to share his conversation with Aqua, as she couldn't see any reason why he should hide anything from her. However, she decided to accept the situation and thought to herself with a slight smile:

"It's curious that he doesn't want to tell me... Oh well, it's his business." Kairi thought.

"Well, putting that aside, how are you feeling?" Kairi asked, temporarily shifting her questioning to focus on Sora's health.

"Now that you mention it, I realized I haven't sneezed or anything the whole time I've been here," Sora smiled hopefully. However, his joy was interrupted when a sudden sneeze escaped his lips. Kairi couldn't help but let out a small laugh, but her intention was comforting.

"But hey, it's progress, don't you think?" the redhead tried to cheer Sora up, hoping to uplift his spirits. Sora nodded in response, although his expression showed a slight disappointment at not being fully recovered.

"Yeah, I guess you're right... Achoo!... Darn it," Sora whispered with frustration due to his persistent sneezing. The illness remained a constant nuisance to him.

"Anyway, Riku is preparing the food, so as soon as he's done, I'll bring you something," Kairi announced as she slowly walked away from Sora's room.

"Wait, Kairi..." Sora called, stopping his friend's step as he pondered whether to reveal something so personal to her. Finally, he decided that Kairi could be an ally in this matter, someone to trust and seek support from.

"What I was going to tell you... you know what, forget it," he let out a small laugh, feeling embarrassed by his own thoughts. He realized it would be unfair to ask Kairi, his former partner, to help him with matters related to another girl. Although they were like siblings now, he knew it wouldn't be appropriate to involve her in that aspect of his life. He didn't want to put Kairi in an uncomfortable situation or make her feel bad in any way. For now, he chose to face this issue on his own.

"If you say so," Kairi replied with a shrug, acknowledging Sora's decision and respecting it. With a slight smile, she walked away from Sora's room.


A week had passed since Aqua and Sora had their first conversation through the Gumiphones. During these days, they had established a routine of constant communication, turning their calls into a refuge where they shared their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Every day, one of them would reach out to the other to ask how they were doing or simply to be present in each other's lives.

The time they spent talking seemed endless. Hours would slip away like ephemeral moments, and they only interrupted their conversations when their respective adventure companions required their attention. There was even a memorable occasion when they extended their talk from the afternoon until late at night, unaware of how they had lost track of time. It was an experience that left them surprised and amazed, wondering how they had managed to talk so much and, at the same time, yearning for more moments like that.

The bond between Aqua and Sora grew stronger with each shared word. Through the Gumiphones, they could hear each other's laughter, whispers, and silences, feeling a deep connection that transcended the physical distance between them. Every spoken word was a thread weaving their friendship, filling their hearts with warmth and affection.

"And how are you feeling?" Aqua asked with a soft voice from the other side of the Gumiphone.

"Honestly, I feel wonderfully well. Though I still have a little cough, the flu has completely disappeared," Sora responded with a radiant smile, relieved to know that his health was improving.

"Oh, that makes me so happy," Aqua said with tenderness in her voice.

"Yes, so does that mean you're coming to see me?" Sora asked excitedly, his heart beating with impatience for the moment when Aqua would arrive at his home. He had so many wonderful places to show her on Destiny Islands. During his time in bed, he had imagined all kinds of adventures and special moments they could share together.

"Of course, I haven't forgotten. It's a promise, remember?" Aqua gently reminded him.

"Yes, of course. I want to show you so many things on Destiny Islands," Sora expressed with a smile full of anticipation.

"I'm looking forward to seeing it all," Aqua said, starting to form images in her mind. "How about... I come tomorrow?" she suggested, letting the excitement seep into her voice.

Upon hearing that proposal, Sora couldn't contain his excitement. His smile widened even more, and his eyes lit up with a special spark.

"Yes! Absolutely yes!" he exclaimed excitedly, making Aqua laugh at his sudden burst of enthusiasm. Then, trying to calm his emotions, he added with a more composed voice, "I mean, if you're okay with it, it would be more than perfect."

"Well then, I'll be there tomorrow, kiddo," Aqua decided to playfully tease him a little.

"Hey! How many times have I told you that I'm not a kid?" Sora huffed in annoyance. He had gotten used to Aqua's jokes about his age, but at that moment, it irritated him a bit. Although he knew Aqua did it affectionately and without any ill intentions, it still bothered him a little, but there wasn't much he could do about it.

"Many times," Aqua smiled, "but it's inevitable and fun."

"Hmm," Sora grumbled annoyed, wondering when Aqua would stop calling him that. Besides, his attempts to tease her never worked; she always found a way to counter gracefully.

"Really, I promise this is the last time I'll call you that," Aqua said, although it was obvious that it was a white lie. She said it just to avoid Sora getting upset with her.

"Liar, you said that yesterday, the day before yesterday, and the day before that," Sora pointed out, making Aqua chuckle.

"Come on, this time I mean it, I promise," Aqua assured him.

"Mmm, fine," Sora grumbled, not entirely convinced.

"Stop being mad; a little while ago, you were very happy," Aqua said.

"It's just that you annoy me a lot," Sora continued growling.

"I do it with affection, silly," Aqua sweetly clarified.

"I know," Sora sighed.

"Then stop being mad, or else I won't come tomorrow," Aqua said. Upon hearing those words, Sora blinked several times and quickly decided to change his attitude, afraid that Aqua wouldn't come.

"I'm not mad anymore! Please come!" Sora raised his voice, upset at the idea that Aqua wouldn't visit him on Destiny Islands. However, Aqua just smiled, admiring how quickly the young hero changed his mood. In her mind, Aqua thought to herself, "He's like a puppy..."

"Relax, do you really want me to come?" Aqua reassured him, conveying her serenity through the Gumiphone.

"Yes, I want you to come. We had such a great time together last time, don't you think?" Sora smiled, recalling the magical moments they shared during her last visit.

"Of course, I do. I hope that, just like me, you'll show me something amazing from your home," Aqua replied, excited at the prospect of discovering the secrets and wonders of Destiny Islands through Sora's eyes. Her smile illuminated her voice.

Sora felt happy and relieved hearing Aqua's enthusiastic response. Since the moment Aqua promised to come, Sora had been thinking about all the wonderful things they could do together. He even wrote down on a piece of paper all the incredible spots on the islands, just in case he forgot something in the midst of the excitement of Aqua's arrival. As they say, a cautious man is worth two.

"You'll see," said Sora determinedly, "I want to show you so many amazing things on these islands."

"I can't wait to see them," Aqua replied, her voice full of anticipation and joy. Both shared a smile, knowing that they were about to experience magical and unforgettable moments together.

And so, they continued chatting joyfully for the rest of the day.


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Well, here's another chapter translated. I hope everything is translated correctly, but the important thing besides that is that you enjoyed it. By the way, this story is not too long, so the relationship between Sora and Aqua progresses quite quickly. Anyway, see you.