(no subject)
It was boiling. Hot. Sticky. The hard-to-breathe kind of summer day that was only cured with water. Water, and lots of it. In the city, of course, few had the luxury of an apartment with a pool. Even fewer had generous landlords that liked to keep the pipes and AC running for more then a few days. The apartment of the Arcene’s was no different then anyone else’s, really. Except for its inhabitants.
The people who lived there were what most other building ‘cliques’ called, ‘The Starving Artists’. People who lived there were either failed- or unknown- teachers, athletes, poets, musicians, actors and actresses respectively, singers, dancers, and of course, visual artists. The Arcene’s weren’t what one would call ‘failed’, really, nor unknown. They were barely starting out. But there was potential. Not like old man Cid, who lived one floor below. He was supposed to be a true artist, one with ‘vision’ and ‘talent’- whatever that meant to him. In truth, he used to be a railway worker until he was laid off and turned his mind to drama.
One floor above melodramatic, depressed, insightful Mr. Cid was the Arcene ‘family’. This actually consisted of two people. Sister and brother, Rikken and Kerrek didn’t seem to fit into the groups. Kerrek, in his early twenties, was an aspiring track and field runner, as well as a kicker on the College football team. Built at about 6’11”, Kerrek still maintained a lean physique. Even though his arm was in a cast from the last track meeting, where an angry contender pounced on him, or so the story went. Rikken knew the true story behind it, but wasn’t about to spread it around. Kerrek, with his long, silver-blonde hair and pretty, eyeliner-traced eyes, was pretty hard to hide when it came to sexuality. Unfortunately, not all of the city’s inhabitants were okay with this taboo subject. Rikken, on the other hand, was pleased that Kerrek didn’t invite young female admirers to the apartment. It made her job as the young lady of the house much easier.
Rikken, really, was secretive about her sexuality. Kerrek concluded that she hadn’t decided yet, while others simply took the default answer- straight. As the ‘young lady of the house’, Rikken wasn’t the one to cook and clean. That, of course, was Kerrek’s job. Her job was to bring home groceries and work her butt off at community centers, restaurants and babysitting jobs for less then minimum wage. Well, that’s what you got for being a mere sixteen. Rikken, with long black hair and gray eyes, untouched by makeup, made sure that she didn’t look at all like her brother. The fact was, they weren’t that closely related.
Rikken was a bastard child. Kerrek was the original sin. They worked together to form a dynamic duo, a two musketeer gig, a perfect pair- I’ll stop now. Rikken was not her mother’s daughter. She was brought home by their father, shoved into Kerrek’s mother’s arms, and had been with them ever since. It was really quite difficult to explain. Kerrek had been eight at the time Rikken was nearly new. They had grown together, and once Kerrek was twenty- Rikken twelve- Their mother had left. No note, no number, her shoes and a few articles of clothing missing. As well as two bottles of Tylenol and all the holiday liquor she had collected over the years. Such a thoughtful mommy, making sure her children didn’t have their hands on those. Rikken, taking complete charge afterwards, allowed Kerrek to go to his track and football practices, but never without anything to eat. And in turn, Kerrek stayed in the apartment and took care of Rikken, making sure that in turn, she had all her work done and was relatively happy. As happy as she could be, anyway.
A regular fairytale. On with the day.
Rikken sat cross-legged on the floor in her underwear and a t-shirt, writing something in a small book and watching the sixteen-inch television in the corner at the same time. The apartment was… modestly furnished, and decorated on a budget. One that was versed in etiquette would say that they hadn’t the exact income of a six-job family. Kerrek had had to sell their sofa and dining room table, along with their beds, his mattress, and a few decorations around the house for money this month. It wasn’t bad. Rikken and he could sleep easily, anywhere, considering their childhood. Kerrek slept on the remaining love seat in the dining room/living room/kitchen area. It wasn’t comfortable, but he managed. Rikken slept in the only bedroom, on a bare mattress. They were lucky- these days, there wasn’t need for blankets and pillows. Just somewhere to melt.
Kerrek worked at a small restaurant as their token charming waiter, who pretended to flirt with the young ladies to keep them coming back. He also delivered- having a truck that their father, or someone, left for them. And then there was the shop- another job where he was the ‘pretty young thing’ that allowed girls to fawn over him. The shop was actually the flower shop, Achilles. Rikken noted that the name wasn’t the most flattering for a flower shop, myth being that Achilles was some overly macho-warrior man that had a weak ankle. But supposedly, he had fallen for some little priestess, and that was the point that the shop was focusing on. And who was their Achilles? Kerrek, of course. Strong and beautiful, Rikken hoped they counted themselves lucky. She also joked with Kerrek about how he was a true whore- allowing all those girls to follow him and prod him and flirt with him. Kerrek merely made a suave remark about how he wasn’t too unfamiliar with that idea- Rikken, of course, gagging, as any little sister would.
But now she sat on the floor, avoiding the slowly receding spot where the sun shone. Kerrek watched the television as well, writing as he did so. He had to write now, even though he was better at the computer. He needed some sort of laptop, or something, so that he could hand that in, instead of chewed-out papers filled with smudges from cheap erasers. Rikken wrote a little story, seeing as it was her summer break, while Kerrek stressed about the projects they were having and kept mentioning in a relieved tone that he was glad that exams were over. Rikken merely nodded politely, quietly, and continued to work. Soon after the sounds of a National Geographic episode died down, melting into a commercial, Rikken spoke.
“Kerrek,”
A grunt.
“Are you feeling up to teaching me how to drive?”
Another, slightly more interested grunt. It was better then being stuck on the very last question on his assignment.
“I’ll drive us to the pools. It’s not far and-“
Kerrek smiled, nodding. She stopped as soon as she had gotten the ‘okay’, not needing to waste her breath. Kerrek knew her obsession with necessity, and didn’t object. It was an old policy, and he wasn’t about to disturb it. Kerrek may have had a cast over his arm, but he could still check out the other people around the pool. It wasn’t uncommon to see two gays kissing over a soda in the shade, really. Kerrek was the least bit excited. Rikken hopped up, wrapping thin, pale arms around his head and placing a kiss in his ear. She knew he hated that, and rubbed the side of his head afterwards, swearing at her to get changed quickly. She merely skipped off, not to be deterred from her good mood. She stripped in the door-less room, going through a trunk that looked at least fifty years older then her, set up to look like a small brown closet. She picked an old swimsuit from the bottom and rifled through the clothing, finally picking a pair of gray shorts and a red shirt. The front of it said something about ‘doing it for the kids’, the back decorated with huge white letters, P-A-L. Obviously a free shirt she picked up at some volunteer work. The shorts seemed to be cut from pants, ones she had found in the old closet- one that was converted into a studio.
Rikken liked to draw. A lot. She drew everything, from people to animals to the buttons off a shirt- anything she saw. Kerrek was her favorite model, being beautiful to the point of pain, but she liked to draw his imperfections the most. Last week she had spent hours staring at a little blemish on his neck, and continued to draw it in such detail that it was hard to tell what the blown-up bird’s-eye-view of mount Saint Helen’s was actually a zit. Kerrek had, thankfully, relieved himself of that clog and was now dressed, at the door, ready as ever. He wore a black mesh shirt, one that screamed that he was either metro or homo, either way. He also wore his famous light blue jeans, the ones he claimed lucky. Rikken rolled her eyes at him, muttering about the heat, and Kerrek merely winked and opened the door for her. Slipping on a pair of brown leather sandals, Rikken skipped down to the elevator. It was working for once, so she pressed the button incessantly until the door opened. Rikken hopped inside, ignoring a young man with lengthy brown hair inside. Kerrek, on the other hand, smiled and nodded to the boy, being given a returned nod. The younger man seemed to get nervous as Kerrek passed by him, nearly pressing against him as he made his way to Rikken. She nearly laughed at how ridiculous he looked, with all the space behind him, but saw how he liked to tease his… friends. Rikken merely ignored them as they made small talk, Nanashi, as the boy was called, saying how he was going to come up and meet him. He then mentioned her name, and the girl awoke from her trance.
“Yeah, this is her. Don’t worry, she wanders off a lot.”
Rikken turned to them, smiling politely and nodding. The boy… Was vaguely familiar. He was pretty, really, and looked even cuter with a girl’s shirt that displayed a cartoon monkey. When she read the quote beneath it, Rikken blushed and nearly laughed aloud. Under the little sad-looking monkey were the words ‘don’t spank me!’ It was cute, really. Rikken commented on his shirt, getting a suave- gay- smile and thanks back. The elevator finally stopped, Allowing Rikken to get off first while Kerrek stayed dangerously close to Nashi and whispered in the boy’s ear. Rikken led the way to the truck, surprised when Nanashi clambered clumsily into the back. Kerrek smiled, saying that he had invited the young man with them, seeing as he was already wearing swimming trunks.
Shifting gears easily, Rikken backed out of the drive as she grumbled about the stick-shift. Kerrek was visibly relaxed, trying not to stare at Nanashi through the passenger’s seat window. Anyone could tell- the man behind him was nervous. Nanashi, same age as Kerrek- less even, by the look of his face- fidgeted with the cords of his trunks and brushed his hair from his face quickly. Rikken smiled- she loved it when her brother made others nervous. He did it easily, too, with that cool stare and a faint, I-know-something-you-don’t smile. He had had that smile since childhood, and she remembered herself trying to imitate it. Instead, Rikken settled for a complacent, thoughtful curve- not even a smile to begin with- that not many people got used to. She drove slowly, still new to the concept of driving, and finally took them to the community center. There was no stereo left in the car, so the silence was relatively thick, even when a few drivers gave Rikken the finger as they shot past, beeping. Rikken merely told them to ‘shove it’ and kept going at her regular speed. Kerrek tutted whenever she’d swear, so Rikken resorted to gestures and mouthing the words. It was like a play, or a dance. A few cars would pass; they would exchange shouts of anger and resentment, and be on their way. When Rikken pulled crookedly into the parking lot, Nanashi seemed to breathe relief and help Kerrek out of the car, awkwardly trying to touch the other man as much as possible- holding his arms, brushing his chest against the other, wrapping an arm around his obviously larger bicep- Rikken’s eyes softened at the sight, glad that her brother was getting attention from people other then females and homophobes. She led the two again, sensing that Kerrek was once again, staying close to the other male.
In truth, Kerrek was thrilled to have met Nanashi. It was a few months ago, really, when Kerrek had taken a job as a bouncer at the dance club ‘Croix’. He had landed it because of an older woman that owned the place, and how she had attended one of her nephew’s football games- and saw Kerrek kick. She had offered him a job there, allowing Kerrek to have any drink free- as long as he worked well. And it was evident- Kerrek flirted with her to keep the job, too. That was when he had met Nanashi.
It wasn’t really a ‘their eyes met across the room’ deal. More of a… The young man was high on ecstasy, given to him by some black-haired man. One thing led to another, and the poor thing was about to be raped in the alley where Kerrek guarded the VIP entrance. Hearing some shouts, and a yelp of pain, Kerrek found the two in a compromising position. Ripping the man away from Nanashi, who was pinned to the wall, Kerrek took him back to his own apartment. Rikken, luckily, was on a school trip to… Ah, he couldn’t remember. All he knew was that it was free, and it was overnight, so she went. Kerrek was fired from his job that night, for leaving his post to go home- allowing a few unwanted guests to come and crash the party- so he decided it was fine. He had saved some boy’s virginity. Kerrek allowed Nanashi to sleep on the loveseat, not wanting him to throw up on Rikken’s bed if he was to be sick. He admired his face, almost female when asleep, and also shook his head at the other’s stupidity. Then again, you never knew in this city. It wasn’t the safest, most wholesome place ever.
That morning, Nanashi awoke to breakfast a la Kerrek, which meant something that could be made in about three minutes in their tiny stove. He was also greeted with the naked chef- well, nearly. Kerrek had taken a shower that morning, and had ushered Nanashi to have one, too. He wore a towel around himself, visibly blushing as he realized that he had been making breakfast for a reason. Either Kerrek was trying to be cute, or he was seriously absent minded. He clutched the towel around himself, trying to hitch it up while pushing Nanashi to the bathroom and instructing him as to where the soap and shampoo was. Nanashi appreciated his efforts- even introduced himself- and showered in a stranger’s house. It was like a fairytale. Nashi was frightened, but somehow set at ease when Kerrek began to get clumsy and nervous. Now it was as if Kerrek had known Nashi the whole time, flirting shamelessly and touching innocently. Rikken, on the other hand, hadn’t found anyone very interesting lately. School was over, and she had never had many friends. Everyone was either a subject, a peer, or not to have time wasted on them. She had always seen it that way, and now, more then ever. She passed three giggling girls in a group, two of them from one or two of her classes. Rikken moved easily to the girls changing room, while the other two slipped into the men’s’.
Rikken smelt chlorine. Chlorine, chlorine, sweat, people and chlorine. It made her eyes water, but she stood it. Taking a corner to herself, she noticed a young woman- maybe a little younger then she- changing into a black and pink bathing suit. Not only was her bathing suit pink, but her hair was, too. Luna. The name popped into her head quickly as she slipped off her shorts and shirt. Rikken pulled the shirt over her head, desperately trying to catch another glimpse of Luna’s long, straight pink hair. This time, though, Luna was staring back at her.
Rikken blushed, not looking away as Luna nodded towards her, smiling shyly. Trying not to look at her suit or her hair, Rikken focused on the pretty blue eyes that stood out against the pink hair and flushed cheeks. Rikken smiled and greeted her, too, with a polite nod. And that was that. Seconds later, the two were on separate routes to the outside world, free from the musty smell of people and old bathing suits. Rikken wore a black one, if you could call that colour black. Rikken had picked up the black bathing suit at some police auction, cleaned it until the dye had faded at least ten shades, and then tried dying it black again. It was pathetic, but worked. She guessed. Finally out of the change room and in the hallway, Rikken spotted her pretty couple- well, she spotted part of Kerrek. The silver-blonde hair and large, suspiciously moving shoulder wasn’t hard to miss. Rikken walked towards them quickly, wanting to go to the pool as soon as possible. Maybe she would see Luna? Maybe they could ‘hang out’, whatever that meant. By the time Rikken reached the pair, she had to turn back, blushing furiously.
Kerrek had pinned Nanashi to the wall, pressing himself against the younger man. Either he was kissing his neck, or ear, or something- or Nanashi had a very peculiar look on his face as Kerrek whispered sweet nothings into his ear, both running hands through each other’s hair and… doing more besides. Rikken cleared her throat loudly, causing Kerrek to freeze and turn around, blushing and clearing the hair from his face. Nashi blushed even harder, attempting to hide behind Kerrek and not meeting Rikken’s eyes. She reached up and grabbed a piece of Kerrek’s hair, causing him to yelp as she pulled him towards the door to the pools. I guess it’s a sister’s job to manhandle the older brother once he got out of line. Thing was- Kerrek knew that she could- and would- use this as blackmail.
“Rikken…” he groaned dangerously, still being led by a lock of blonde hair. The girl ignored him, opening the door and once again leading the two men around. Finding a relatively abandoned post, Rikken set down a towel and her Kerrek. After thoroughly checking for hemorrhaging on his scalp, Kerrek gave Rikken a grin, picking up the towel beside him. Rikken yelped and ran as he threatened to make a rat’s tail, and was chastised by the lifeguard’s whistle for running around the pool. Rikken apologized by bowing slightly, and continued to walk away from her brother and his advancing love interest.
Kerrek sat contentedly as Nanashi came over, sitting close to him. Kerrek gave his free hand to the other, making him get up and sit between his legs, so that the bigger man could rest his chin on Nanashi’s shoulder. The smaller one sighed contentedly, even through dirty looks both men and women were giving him. No one could touch him when he was practically sitting on Kerrek’s lap. Hands moving slowly, he found the rough cast that Kerrek had on. Nanashi had been kissing Kerrek at that meet- that was why the angry idiot jumped them, screaming obscenities and shouting about God. Kerrek fought, but not hard enough for the thirty-something, three-hundred-pound lummox to step on his arm. Nanashi had felt responsible- hence coming around nearly every day to check on him. He had never met Rikken before, and wasn’t impressed with his first impression of her. She was quiet, bossy, and nosey, what with her hopping in on them snogging. However, Kerrek seemed to like her well enough, so he could stand her. It wasn’t like she was doing it on purpose, anyway. She had been away with friends, or something- he didn’t know. It wasn’t his to ask, anyway.
Kerrek began to stroke Nanashi’s arm, whispering that he was ‘returning the favor’. Nanashi realized then that he had been fiddling with the rough edges of the cast, thinking of their adventures. The smell of chlorine and sweat finally penetrated his attention, along with the sounds of the pool that seemed to have been muted as he thought. He felt Kerrek wrap himself tighter around him, and wished that there were less people staring. One young man even shot Nashi the finger- bringing a lighthearted thumbs-up from Kerrek. He loved it when Kerrek did this- no matter what happened, he was still courteous. Kerrek seemed to rest his mouth on Nanashi’s shoulder, too, until the younger man realized that he was kissing it. Nanashi shuddered, leaning back. Ah, this is too much sappiness. It’ll get more exciting later ;3
Rikken moved embarrassedly further away from the lovebirds, spotting Luna talking to two young men. One was their age, long-ish blonde hair already wet. He wore light blue swimming trunks, and seemed to be an all-around good boy. The other, his friend, seemed not to be in such a position. Black suit on pale skin, and shoulder-length black hair framing a slightly sour face. He even wore a collar- how cute. Rikken caught up with Luna, getting a smile and a nod when she got there. The Blue-trunked blonde grinned and bowed, and the collared boy tried to smirk. Rikken blushed at the blonde’s greeting, bowing back and steered clear of the pale boy. He didn’t seem friendly, with that look on his face. Luna, as if reading her mind, turned to the pale one’s still-trying-to-smirk face- still looking at Rikken, too.
“Tseris, what are you, constipated?”
A hoot of laughter came from the other boy, who punched a blushing Tseris- pronounced ‘sair-is’- in the arm. After the punching, though, the blonde extended a hand to Rikken, smiling shyly. He mentioned his name being Kuro, and Rikken replied with her own name. Luna snaked an arm around Rikken’s waist, standing on her tip-toes to reach Rikken’s eye-level with the top of her head. She grinned and revealed that they had been talking about her.
“See? She’s only a year older, but she’s that much taller then me!” she seemed to pout, dropping the arm from an embarrassed Rikken. She blushed and smiled, putting an arm over Luna’s shoulder and accentuating her giantism.
“Don’t worry, little Luni. You’ll grow up, one day.” She smiled sweetly in Luna’s direction, trying out the flirtatious smile that Kerrek gave her before sending her running from a rat’s tail. Luna blushed madly, smiling through it. Tseris stepped up, moving close to show that he was at least a head taller then Rikken. Rikken blushed, not moving away. She had taught herself never to move away- it gave others the upper hand. Maybe she was psychotic for thinking that way, but hey, it was true. Displeased with her lack of submission, Tseris spoke finally, his voice deep but airy. Rikken could only think of one thing when she heard the voice- snake.
“But look how short she is compared to me!” he began, but was pushed away by Kuro. Rikken was nearly his height.
“She’s not that short, Tseris. Look, she’s my age and she’s nearly as tall as me!”
Another push and Tseris was standing close again, examining her face. Blush, but no looking away. This was strange. “She’s still short, Kuro.” And another push.
“Come on, Tseris, you’re seventeen! And you’re the tallest guy in your year.”
And another push.
And a splash.
This time, Rikken had to look away. Not many watched as a trail of bubbles escaped the young man that sank with closed eyes into the deep end of the pool. Luna swore under her breath, telling Rikken that ‘oh my god, he hit his head!’. Where was the lifeguard? Where in hell was that stupid lifeguard!? They looked up to see that the chair was empty, most likely the lifeguard switching shifts. Luna tugged at Rikken’s arm, as if expecting her to save him. Was that what she wanted her to do? Jump in and save a boy she didn’t know? There wasn’t time to waste. Rikken gave Tseris a glare, jumping into the pool. Opening her eyes, Rikken screamed inwardly as the chlorine chewed through her eyeballs. Nevertheless, she saw a faint blur of tan and blue, propelling herself towards it and seeing it more clearly as she did so. Rikken came close enough to count the ribs on his side before wrapping her arms around him and lifting him up. She was running out of air. Not taking the chance to equalize the pressure that was killing her head, she shot up to the surface. What if she got bubbles? Worse, what if this hurt Kuro? What if he was dead? She was touching a dead body she was touching a dead body shewastouchingadeadbodyyyyy!!! No, calm down. Rikken paddled towards the shallow end, hearing a few screams as they, too, finally realized that she was carrying a dead man. Rikken swallowed, finding it extremely difficult to keep Kuro up when she had the physique of a toothpick and the water was getting more and more shallow. Thankfully, a familiar arm came to her, along with a slightly less familiar pair. Kerrek took the younger man from her, hitching him over his shoulder with the help of a fluttering, thin Nanashi. Rikken noted that if Nanashi were a girl, he would probably have her type of body- only strong where it counted. Rikken jogged up to where Kerrek gently lay the boy, feeling incredibly dizzy from overexertion in an environment that hadn’t air. She leaned over the boy, checking for any signs of breathing- none. She looked helplessly at Kerrek, who had been a lifeguard over last summer. He knew what to do, right? Rikken really didn’t have a chance to tell- the dizziness had really gotten to her. She coughed, shuddered, and began to sway. Nashi, being ready for anything, steadied her as she fell unconscious, sitting up.
And this is the end of chapter one x.x What do you think? I need a name for the city, and I’m sorry if you didn’t want me to sorta-kinda steal the dance-club idea .__.; XD;; Sorry. I hope you like it ;3 My gift to you before I go ^__^ <3 Love for you!
Chapter 2
Kerrek continued to press into the young boy’s chest, counting to five before checking his breathing. There were murmurs over the pool, and there were splashy, running footsteps coming heavily over. The lifeguard was given dirty looks by the kids that were there to see what happened, some of them fussing over Rikken. Kerrek looked up a moment at his sister, seeing that she had passed out in Nanashi’s arms. Poor thing… In that moment he had lost rhythm, so he took a new one. Ear hovering over the young man’s mouth, he felt no breath. The lifeguard didn’t do anything, seeming entranced with what was happening. Kerrek punched into Kuro’s chest again, five times, then plugged his nose. He pressed his mouth over the other’s, blowing in and watching his small chest inflate as he blew. He felt a gurgle coming from the boy, bubbling in his throat. He moved away as a sputter of water came from the boy’s mouth, brown eyes fluttering open and staying unfocused. They then landed on Kerrek, frightened and confused. Kerrek grinned, looking up at everyone and announcing that he would be alright. Some clapped, others sighed with relief. Some older ones even began to scold the lifeguard that was supposed to be on duty. It was alright, now. Everything would be alright. Kerrek helped Nanashi carry the limp Rikken to a pool chair, a few people coming to see how she was. Kuro was carried by some black-haired boy and a pink-haired girl. Well, more like the black haired boy was helping him stand and get to the chair beside Rikken, and the girl was bossing him around to get there. Kerrek had both of Rikken’s legs in one arm as Nanashi struggled with her top half. Rikken looked as if she were rousing, eyes fluttering as she was placed on the chair. He hadn’t seen his sister like this since…
“Is she okay?”
The little blonde was shaking, but he still managed to come free of the punk’s grasp and sit up in the chair. Luna, the pink-haired girl, came to one side of Rikken, kneeling to see her face. Rikken moved a bit, and Kerrek moved closer, trying to pull the hair that was getting stuck beneath her back. Instead of that, all he got was a smack in the face. Rikken awoke, punching the head looming over her quickly, despite her drowsy state. She really couldn’t hurt anyone, and her sight was poor due to all those pretty stars, but she didn’t want anyone near her. There were laughs as she did this, slow and echoing, but they were there. Rikken frowned, lifting her head slowly to see what was going on. Where was she? Had she passed out? Was she in a hospital? The questions were making her dizzy, and there were voices. Kerrek’s voice, followed by someone else’s… Rikken tried to tune them out, but she ended up being lifted just enough so that she could sit somewhere properly. She was at the pools. There were people everywhere. Finding the closest blonde head, Rikken latched on to it, telling him that she wanted to go home. She wondered why Kerrek’s hair wasn’t as long as it was before. It was also softer, but wet, as well.
“Uh… Okay. Don’t worry, we’ll go home.”
It seemed so nice to finally… Rikken heard a different voice, besides Kerrek’s. She didn’t care though, not at the moment. Slowly, though, she began to realize that hanging on to a stranger’s neck wasn’t the best way to get home. She moved away slowly, examining the face of whomever she was holding on to. Whoever he was, he was blushing madly. Rikken’s face heated up- or cooled down, she couldn’t tell- and turned red as she was pulled away by one arm. Kerrek was grinning as he pulled the confused thing up to her feet, apologizing for her mislead actions. Rikken pinched the bridge of her nose, shaking her head before focusing on the youth across the chair. Kuro! It was that boy! She began to realize what had happened, eyes widening. Before she knew it, she was asking the boy questions.
“Oh! Kuro! Are you alright? You’re not… Dead?”
Rikken stopped herself before she could say anything else, pushing Kerrek away so that she could stand. Luna stood, grinning, and propped Rikken up with her shoulder. Rikken accepted her as a crutch, and listened to what she had to say.
“Rikken’s just really tired, probably. So I think we should take her home. Rikken?”
Rikken nodded, smiling shyly. Kerrek stepped in, offering them rides. Tseris was hesitant, but when Kuro nodded, he seemed to agree. Nanashi grinned up at Kerrek, and Luna held Rikken up while looking at him hopefully. Kerrek nodded, counting them up. Six. Six people, one truck. Kerrek shook his head and grinned, deciding that now would be a good time for everyone to get ready.
***
After about ten minutes, everyone was ready and at the car. Rikken was back in her shorts, having been conscious enough to change herself. Luna wore a sleeveless black summer dress, black and white striped stockings covering her legs. Her arms also had stocking on them, but fashioned into gloves- why she was wearing all this was beyond Kerrek. Rikken, on the other hand, liked the stuff. She played with the little rabbit earring Luna had on, a fuzzy bunny dangling from her ear. Rikken, of course, had stayed in her gray shorts and red shirt, followed closely by Kuro in a blue-striped button-down and cargo shorts. Tseris stayed close to Luna, dressed in a black wife beater and pockety-pants, of which brand Kerrek could only guess. Nanashi had borrowed an extra pair of Kerrek’s pants, holding on to them unsurely, despite the overlarge belt around them. He had also borrowed a shirt that Kerrek had in the back of the car, a brown one that seemed to make his green eyes light up. Kerrek was wearing what he wore to the place, light blue jeans and mesh shirt, and lifted Rikken into the back of the truck. She nodded to Kerrek, who gave her a mock salute back. Rikken rolled her eyes and helped Luna up, then Kuro. When Tseris came, he looked down, ashamed of what he had done back at the pool. Rikken simply grinned, shaking her head and allowing him to take her hands and get into the back of the truck. Luna took a seat at one side of Kuro, in the corner. Rikken sat beside Kuro, too, leaning against the spare tire he was sitting in. She moved over to allow Tseris to sit beside her, his arms wrapping around the outside of the truck. Kerrek looked at them through his rearview mirror, calling out to see if they were all alright. Rikken gave him a thumbs-up, and he grinned, backing out of the parking lot. Despite a broken arm, Kerrek still seemed a master of the road, polite but quick. Rikken hardly noticed that Tseris was speaking to her.
“Uh… Sorry about what I did.”
Rikken looked at him, surprised. His arm had slipped from the truck, and was now over her shoulders. She didn’t like to be touched. Rikken shrugged, telling him that he shouldn’t apologize to her. He nodded, looking at Kuro a moment before muttering something about ‘later’. Rikken turned to Luna, who was talking to her over the blonde.
“Rikken… About your brother.”
Rikken nodded, grinning. A lot of people asked her about that.
“I saw him like… Well, you know… With that guy. Is he…?”
She didn’t have to finish her sentence. Rikken nodded, still smiling.
“Yes, he is. Why? Are you afraid?”
She laughed at this, getting one from Luna as well. She shook her head no, crawling over to Rikken. Rikken, in turn, led her to the other side of the truck so that they could talk. Kuro nearly went with them, but was held back by Tseris. He said something into Kuro’s ear, getting a nod and a noogie back. Tseris took both, merely rolling his eyes. Kuro said something along the lines of ‘I’m not dead, am I?’, to him, getting a heated comment back from his friend. Meanwhile, Rikken talked about Kerrek to Luna.
“He’s sweet, really. Once you get to know him. He’s also a real gigolo, if you catch my drift.” Rikken whispered this to Luna, who giggled and covered her mouth. Kuro then crawled over, asking what they were giggling about. Rikken shrugged, allowing Luna to speak for her. After being told, Kuro gave a mock sly glance towards Kerrek, missing his turned eyes by a moment and being caught. Rikken and Luna giggled as Kerrek winked back, smiling at the sixteen-year-old. Kuro blushed intensely again, looking back at the two girls as he tried to change the subject. He sat on one side of Luna, Rikken on the other. Tseris was left sitting back where he had been, looking slightly sullen. Luna invited him over, but he seemed not to hear. Kuro shrugged and said that Tseris got like that sometimes. Especially when girls were around. Rikken smiled, shrugging the behavior off easily. If he didn’t want to join the party, he didn’t have to. Not that the back of a truck was any place to have a party.
After what seemed only minutes, the sun began to set. Kerrek had gotten directions from Tseris, who had merited a seat between the two lovers. Nanashi and Tseris were having a lively conversation about something or another, Kerrek looking sullen and jealous as he drove, his usually full lips at thin line of contempt. He tried to enter the conversation at times, but Tseris seemed to rebuke the words he gave almost instantly. Nanashi seemed oblivious to this, of course, but tried to include Kerrek from time to time. Rikken observed this sleepily, resting her head on Luna’s. Luna’s head was tucked against her chest, arms wrapped loosely around her, seemingly asleep. Kuro had made his way to the other side of Rikken, allowing her to rest against him, just as Luna slept against her. The three looked considerably cozy, nestled against eachother, when the truck came to a slow halt.
“Kuro, get out. We’re going to my place.”
Rikken roused herself almost instantly, accidentally waking Luna as well. She looked behind her at what was supposed to be Tseris’ neighborhood. Kerrek quickly shouted to Kuro to sit down, and that he was going to go into the driveway. Kuro plopped down obediently, and the truck popped and sputtered into the drive. Rikken… She had passed these houses many times on her way to the library, or to the park. Kerrek had driven with her, past all these houses, telling her which one they would buy when they were rich. And Rikken had always told him that ‘rich’ just wouldn’t cut it for these houses.
You had to be friggin’ loaded.
Tseris climbed over Nanashi to get out, withdrawing a growl from Kerrek. Kerrek opened his door to get out, Nanashi following close behind. Rikken and Kuro hopped out of the truck, both taking one of Luna’s hands so that she could come out safely. Luna whispered something to Rikken, which made her grin and nod. She leaned against the door of the passenger’s side, pulling something like a pen out from between seats and scrawling her number onto the other girl’s hand. The two seemed to act now, closer, more like girlish-friends then before. Maybe it was the pool incident. Perhaps the fact that they had spent the day together. Rikken seemed happier, as Kerrek noted from the doorway. Anything to make her happier. Kuro even came and spoke to them, the three like sirens, encircling each other carefully, yet lovingly. Siblings, even. Kerrek’s glittering blue eyes softened at this sight, making him appear more gentle, more vulnerable. Nanashi saw this, hooking an arm around Kerrek’s slight waist. Kerrek, in turn, wrapped a strong arm around Nanashi’s shoulders, starting when the door opened suddenly.
A butler? These people were going all out. Tseris merely nodded to him, turning and shouting a command to Kuro. The blonde boy turned suddenly, said goodbye to the other two sirens, and hopped off to the house. Kerrek hadn’t really seen this. He was preoccupied with the look the butler was giving he and his boyfriend. Shocked, appauled, disgusted, slightly angry and even confused, he seemed to be trying not to look at the two. Nanashi was oblivious to this, so Kerrek stood straighter, taking both of Tseris’ hands into his and thanking him with a slightly provocative tone of voice. Nanashi stared for a moment, confused and slightly hurt at Kerrek taking his arms from him to thank Tseris, but soon understood with how the servant ushered Tseris and Kuro inside, closing the door on them.
It was late. Nighttime. Luna told them that she should have been staying at her mother’s house, and gave them directions. On the ride, the girls said nothing, but tangled themselves with each other once more. When finally there, Luna came out and thanked the others for a ride, skipping off to a slightly abandoned-looking, slightly dilapidated house with just a slightly malnourished lawn and slightly boarded-up windows. Rikken was confused- but said nothing. She then called out to Luna, having had an idea.
“Luna…”
“Yes?”
“Ask your mum if you can stay over, won’t you?”
Luna looked slightly confused, then worried, then happy. She called back quickly, shaking her head.
“I’m sure she won’t mind, Rikken-ey. I’ll come over tonight.”
Rikken grinned placidly, lifting Luna up so that she could get into the trunk. Kerrek didn’t seem to complain, catching on to what Rikken was thinking quickly, with a mere glance from the girl. He didn’t need to be told twice- He shifted gears easily, hooking an arm around Nanashi’s headrest. Luna and Rikken spoke quietly as they were driven to the apartment, hearing the low beginnings of someone’s band on the first floor. Rikken had loved this apartment, still did- but at night, things didn’t seem to stop. Soon, Rikken had given up trying to sleep, only napping when she felt like it. She was lucky it was summertime. Otherwise, the school would probably kick her out for sleeping during her classes- It didn’t really matter. Next year would be her last. October, she would turn seventeen, and after that, she would be off. Rikken grinned at the building, finding herself standing before the truck had stopped sputtering. The apartment’s name, as it said in peeling letters on the front glass, was the St. John’s the Baptist Hall. And what a hall. The beautiful sand and cigarette-butt filled flower-planters, the scattered pebbles around the entrance, the mostly-dead cars littered around the parking lot like so many dead and dying soldiers. The few and far-between people, one or two elderly people walking with no aim around the pot-smoking teens that gathered to share a doobie. Rikken wrinkled her nose at the smell of marijuana, remembering how another girl had asked her if she smoked pot. Rikken had too much to lose if she did get addicted, and Kerrek would kill her. She had laughed, showing white teeth and regularly-sized pupils in sockets that were not puffy- just hollow from lack of sleep. No one had asked her afterwards. Rikken, the nerd, was clean.
Blitzing out of the back of the truck, Rikken took Luna’s hand and led her towards the doors to wait for Kerrek and his key. Rikken didn’t seem to have the patience for Kerrek to come over, holding Nanashi’s hand in a much more sensual way then she had held Luna’s, speaking in low murmurs and giggling with the other boy. It was enough to make Rikken fake gagging in front of her brother and his friend, causing small, sick choking noises to escape her. Luna blushed but giggled, covering her mouth as Kerrek glared at his little sister and unlocked the door. Rikken immediately took off, Luna following close behind.
After a little while, the sun was still setting slowly, visibility hindered by passing clouds and tall buildings. Rikken stared out at the view with her friend on the balcony, sounds of Kerrek, Nashi and the TV muffled by the glass sliding door. The two girls leaned against the metal frame, listening to cars and people down in the streets below. There weren’t so many people as in the day time- but this city was crowded as it was. Rikken suddenly leaned forward, causing Luna to jump. The pale girl lifted herself up with minor difficulties, standing on the metal and pulling herself up to the next floor’s balcony. She then stuck a hand out for Luna to grab, lifting the other girl up to that floor with her. They repeated this once more, until the two were on the roof. Luna looked down, alarmed at what she had just done with the help of Rikken. The other girl simply laughed, sitting down beside Luna and crossing her legs.
“I do this when Kerrek’s at work and I have a day off.”
“How come you don’t use the stairs?”
“It’s boring. Besides, I wanted to scare you a little. I didn’t think you’d come up with--”
“You just did this to frighten me?!”
“No! I thought you wouldn’t come up. I would have stayed with you.”
“…Oh. I’m glad you took me up here. But…”
“…Yeah?”
“Let’s use the stairs next time.”
“…Okay.”
The two laughed quietly, not finding any sense in what they had just said. But it felt good to laugh like this for once, with a friend. It was summer. Nothing to study. Nothing to do at work, because the business had taken a few weeks off. The café was somebody’s family’s business, so they had probably gone somewhere nice and hot. Rikken was fine where they were- it was already hot enough, and there was at least one place in the big city where they could cool off. And there were dance clubs, where her big brother worked. There were cafés, and restaurants, and all sorts of other places where Rikken could never afford to eat. There were people everywhere, and sunsets, and a bit of a woodland near the edge of town. And there was a rolling countryside, and suburbs, and golf clubs and equestrian’s stables. All sorts of things were a part of this city- Rikken enjoyed her environment. She wanted to stay here as long as possible.
“Luna…”
Luna’s face had a small, dark cloud hang over it for a moment as Rikken requested her attention. Was the other girl going to ask about the house? The absence of a mother? Luna braced herself for the worst, cringing as the words came from Rikken’s unknowing mouth. And yet, this time, the question was gentle. Not mocking like others had been. Not demanding, like the truant officer, or the police. Luna hated the question, but the horrid things were masked by a kind voice. It was almost okay to hear her say this. But then… Wait, was she even going to ask what Luna thought she was going to ask?
“Hm?”
“About your mum…”
“…Oh.”
“Are you… Do you want to stay at my house for a little while? It gets lonely at night, without Kerrek. He works night shifts now, ‘cause it fits better with college. And well… I was thinking that… I dunno. Uhh…”
“I’ll stay.”
“…You will? You’re sure?”
“Of course! I’d love to. Besides, it gets lonely with… When my mum’s working nights, too.”
It was no use really saying anything like that, but Luna was sure that Rikken had figured it out by now. Then again, Rikken could just be extremely naïve. Or thick. Rikken was neither, but at times, it was hard to tell whether she understood and was playing along, or if she was truly oblivious. Nevertheless, Rikken looked significantly pleased, swinging her legs happily. She then stopped suddenly, her eyes widening. Luna looked at her, confused as the other girl squirmed and leapt back, lifting her legs up in the air and twisting around. She didn’t make a noise until she twisted, some gravel raking against the roof as her bottom slid it around. She hopped away from the edge of the roof, grabbing Luna around her middle and pulling her back. Luna seemed to make a squeak noise as something else grabbed her foot, not letting go of the socked thing so easily. Finally, the striped thing slipped off her leg, and the two girls flew back onto the roof. Rikken moaned piteously, suddenly launching herself and grabbing something from the edge. Shouting at the top of her lungs, she yanked at something, getting a shout- definitely male- back from their attacker.
“Kerrek! You idiot! What the hell are you doing?!”
“Holy crap Rikken, I wanted to tell you that we were leaving!”
“Kerrek, you could have friggin’ told us from the balcony, we’re not deaf!”
“Don’t you friggin’ me, lady- You are so dead when I get my hands on you!”
“What the hell are you doing scaring us like that, then?! You freaking idiot, I could have fallen! Worse, Luna!”
The mild rude words and shouting went on, Nanashi and Luna suddenly giggling at the two fighting. Rikken was hanging up-side-down by her legs over the ledge of the roof, pulling Kerrek’s hair up. Kerrek was standing on their neighbor’s balcony, his hands over Rikken’s much smaller ones, trying to get her to let go. They were lucky Cid was probably out walking, looking for inspiration for a new invention. Kerrek finally grabbed Rikken’s arms, allowing her to scream- the sound was cold, high and glass-like, delicate but piercing. She fell, but with practice, had learned to propel herself to catch Kerrek. Kerrek, in turn, let her go down to the lower level of the balconies.
After what seemed like hours, Kerrek and Nashi were ready to leave. Rikken was still angry with him, but gave him a stiff hug and a kiss before he left. Every night- no matter what, they had to leave each other with at least some form of love. Who knows what could happen to either of them? Rikken closed the door behind them and locked it cautiously, her usually calm face weary and tired. She looked… Different to Luna, as if she was burdened. Rikken went into the kitchen, pulling out some leftover pizza from the fridge.
“You like pizza, right?”
“Uh, sure.”
“Is there anything on it you don’t like?”
Luna shook her head no. She wasn’t allergic to anything as far as she knew, and she took anything she could eat. The older girl sat down on the counter, waiting for the oven to warm the leftovers. The kitchen was modest as the house- a fridge and stove that came with the apartment, two counters and a simple, silver sink. It was ugly, but it was also expected in such an apartment. Everything was expected. Except, of course, the unusual outbursts of activity- one moment, everything was calm. The next, there could be heard running and panting outside their door, even at one point during their meal a slam and a squeal. Rikken got up quickly, picking up a broom from the wall and batting at whatever was out there. She could be heard shouting at the people, then getting a response in a different language. Rikken then responded in the same language, though her accents weren’t the same. They would argue for a few seconds, then Rikken would slam the door. There were no more slams, nor screams right outside their door anymore.
Luna… She was afraid to ask, really. She hadn’t remembered living in an apartment. Before her mother had left, they had lived all together, in some house near the library- it was the stuff of books. She was then left with her father, after Mother had left. After a few weeks of missing her mother, her father became violent- Luna was lucky to get out while she could. Luna could remember little, but she still knew that she couldn’t go back. If her mother ever came back to her dad, then he could go through the shame of telling her what she had done. Luna was pulled from her thoughts when Rikken spoke again, wondering aloud how Kerrek and Nanashi were holding up.
They were doing well, to say the least.
It had turned out that Kerrek’s boss had called in a sub, because he had been late about ten minutes. Knowing Kerrek, he was never late, so they had decided that he wasn’t coming. This gave Kerrek the option of staying at the club, or going home.
Needless to say, he chose the former, with help from his better half.
Rikken says:
God, I wish people would stop telling me what to do about them.
Rikken says:
It's not like I'm unhappy.
[Nãthï§] says:
well, you could always go with my plan XD
[Nãthï§] says:
burn the house@
Taylor always knows exactly what to say ^__^
The people who lived there were what most other building ‘cliques’ called, ‘The Starving Artists’. People who lived there were either failed- or unknown- teachers, athletes, poets, musicians, actors and actresses respectively, singers, dancers, and of course, visual artists. The Arcene’s weren’t what one would call ‘failed’, really, nor unknown. They were barely starting out. But there was potential. Not like old man Cid, who lived one floor below. He was supposed to be a true artist, one with ‘vision’ and ‘talent’- whatever that meant to him. In truth, he used to be a railway worker until he was laid off and turned his mind to drama.
One floor above melodramatic, depressed, insightful Mr. Cid was the Arcene ‘family’. This actually consisted of two people. Sister and brother, Rikken and Kerrek didn’t seem to fit into the groups. Kerrek, in his early twenties, was an aspiring track and field runner, as well as a kicker on the College football team. Built at about 6’11”, Kerrek still maintained a lean physique. Even though his arm was in a cast from the last track meeting, where an angry contender pounced on him, or so the story went. Rikken knew the true story behind it, but wasn’t about to spread it around. Kerrek, with his long, silver-blonde hair and pretty, eyeliner-traced eyes, was pretty hard to hide when it came to sexuality. Unfortunately, not all of the city’s inhabitants were okay with this taboo subject. Rikken, on the other hand, was pleased that Kerrek didn’t invite young female admirers to the apartment. It made her job as the young lady of the house much easier.
Rikken, really, was secretive about her sexuality. Kerrek concluded that she hadn’t decided yet, while others simply took the default answer- straight. As the ‘young lady of the house’, Rikken wasn’t the one to cook and clean. That, of course, was Kerrek’s job. Her job was to bring home groceries and work her butt off at community centers, restaurants and babysitting jobs for less then minimum wage. Well, that’s what you got for being a mere sixteen. Rikken, with long black hair and gray eyes, untouched by makeup, made sure that she didn’t look at all like her brother. The fact was, they weren’t that closely related.
Rikken was a bastard child. Kerrek was the original sin. They worked together to form a dynamic duo, a two musketeer gig, a perfect pair- I’ll stop now. Rikken was not her mother’s daughter. She was brought home by their father, shoved into Kerrek’s mother’s arms, and had been with them ever since. It was really quite difficult to explain. Kerrek had been eight at the time Rikken was nearly new. They had grown together, and once Kerrek was twenty- Rikken twelve- Their mother had left. No note, no number, her shoes and a few articles of clothing missing. As well as two bottles of Tylenol and all the holiday liquor she had collected over the years. Such a thoughtful mommy, making sure her children didn’t have their hands on those. Rikken, taking complete charge afterwards, allowed Kerrek to go to his track and football practices, but never without anything to eat. And in turn, Kerrek stayed in the apartment and took care of Rikken, making sure that in turn, she had all her work done and was relatively happy. As happy as she could be, anyway.
A regular fairytale. On with the day.
Rikken sat cross-legged on the floor in her underwear and a t-shirt, writing something in a small book and watching the sixteen-inch television in the corner at the same time. The apartment was… modestly furnished, and decorated on a budget. One that was versed in etiquette would say that they hadn’t the exact income of a six-job family. Kerrek had had to sell their sofa and dining room table, along with their beds, his mattress, and a few decorations around the house for money this month. It wasn’t bad. Rikken and he could sleep easily, anywhere, considering their childhood. Kerrek slept on the remaining love seat in the dining room/living room/kitchen area. It wasn’t comfortable, but he managed. Rikken slept in the only bedroom, on a bare mattress. They were lucky- these days, there wasn’t need for blankets and pillows. Just somewhere to melt.
Kerrek worked at a small restaurant as their token charming waiter, who pretended to flirt with the young ladies to keep them coming back. He also delivered- having a truck that their father, or someone, left for them. And then there was the shop- another job where he was the ‘pretty young thing’ that allowed girls to fawn over him. The shop was actually the flower shop, Achilles. Rikken noted that the name wasn’t the most flattering for a flower shop, myth being that Achilles was some overly macho-warrior man that had a weak ankle. But supposedly, he had fallen for some little priestess, and that was the point that the shop was focusing on. And who was their Achilles? Kerrek, of course. Strong and beautiful, Rikken hoped they counted themselves lucky. She also joked with Kerrek about how he was a true whore- allowing all those girls to follow him and prod him and flirt with him. Kerrek merely made a suave remark about how he wasn’t too unfamiliar with that idea- Rikken, of course, gagging, as any little sister would.
But now she sat on the floor, avoiding the slowly receding spot where the sun shone. Kerrek watched the television as well, writing as he did so. He had to write now, even though he was better at the computer. He needed some sort of laptop, or something, so that he could hand that in, instead of chewed-out papers filled with smudges from cheap erasers. Rikken wrote a little story, seeing as it was her summer break, while Kerrek stressed about the projects they were having and kept mentioning in a relieved tone that he was glad that exams were over. Rikken merely nodded politely, quietly, and continued to work. Soon after the sounds of a National Geographic episode died down, melting into a commercial, Rikken spoke.
“Kerrek,”
A grunt.
“Are you feeling up to teaching me how to drive?”
Another, slightly more interested grunt. It was better then being stuck on the very last question on his assignment.
“I’ll drive us to the pools. It’s not far and-“
Kerrek smiled, nodding. She stopped as soon as she had gotten the ‘okay’, not needing to waste her breath. Kerrek knew her obsession with necessity, and didn’t object. It was an old policy, and he wasn’t about to disturb it. Kerrek may have had a cast over his arm, but he could still check out the other people around the pool. It wasn’t uncommon to see two gays kissing over a soda in the shade, really. Kerrek was the least bit excited. Rikken hopped up, wrapping thin, pale arms around his head and placing a kiss in his ear. She knew he hated that, and rubbed the side of his head afterwards, swearing at her to get changed quickly. She merely skipped off, not to be deterred from her good mood. She stripped in the door-less room, going through a trunk that looked at least fifty years older then her, set up to look like a small brown closet. She picked an old swimsuit from the bottom and rifled through the clothing, finally picking a pair of gray shorts and a red shirt. The front of it said something about ‘doing it for the kids’, the back decorated with huge white letters, P-A-L. Obviously a free shirt she picked up at some volunteer work. The shorts seemed to be cut from pants, ones she had found in the old closet- one that was converted into a studio.
Rikken liked to draw. A lot. She drew everything, from people to animals to the buttons off a shirt- anything she saw. Kerrek was her favorite model, being beautiful to the point of pain, but she liked to draw his imperfections the most. Last week she had spent hours staring at a little blemish on his neck, and continued to draw it in such detail that it was hard to tell what the blown-up bird’s-eye-view of mount Saint Helen’s was actually a zit. Kerrek had, thankfully, relieved himself of that clog and was now dressed, at the door, ready as ever. He wore a black mesh shirt, one that screamed that he was either metro or homo, either way. He also wore his famous light blue jeans, the ones he claimed lucky. Rikken rolled her eyes at him, muttering about the heat, and Kerrek merely winked and opened the door for her. Slipping on a pair of brown leather sandals, Rikken skipped down to the elevator. It was working for once, so she pressed the button incessantly until the door opened. Rikken hopped inside, ignoring a young man with lengthy brown hair inside. Kerrek, on the other hand, smiled and nodded to the boy, being given a returned nod. The younger man seemed to get nervous as Kerrek passed by him, nearly pressing against him as he made his way to Rikken. She nearly laughed at how ridiculous he looked, with all the space behind him, but saw how he liked to tease his… friends. Rikken merely ignored them as they made small talk, Nanashi, as the boy was called, saying how he was going to come up and meet him. He then mentioned her name, and the girl awoke from her trance.
“Yeah, this is her. Don’t worry, she wanders off a lot.”
Rikken turned to them, smiling politely and nodding. The boy… Was vaguely familiar. He was pretty, really, and looked even cuter with a girl’s shirt that displayed a cartoon monkey. When she read the quote beneath it, Rikken blushed and nearly laughed aloud. Under the little sad-looking monkey were the words ‘don’t spank me!’ It was cute, really. Rikken commented on his shirt, getting a suave- gay- smile and thanks back. The elevator finally stopped, Allowing Rikken to get off first while Kerrek stayed dangerously close to Nashi and whispered in the boy’s ear. Rikken led the way to the truck, surprised when Nanashi clambered clumsily into the back. Kerrek smiled, saying that he had invited the young man with them, seeing as he was already wearing swimming trunks.
Shifting gears easily, Rikken backed out of the drive as she grumbled about the stick-shift. Kerrek was visibly relaxed, trying not to stare at Nanashi through the passenger’s seat window. Anyone could tell- the man behind him was nervous. Nanashi, same age as Kerrek- less even, by the look of his face- fidgeted with the cords of his trunks and brushed his hair from his face quickly. Rikken smiled- she loved it when her brother made others nervous. He did it easily, too, with that cool stare and a faint, I-know-something-you-don’t smile. He had had that smile since childhood, and she remembered herself trying to imitate it. Instead, Rikken settled for a complacent, thoughtful curve- not even a smile to begin with- that not many people got used to. She drove slowly, still new to the concept of driving, and finally took them to the community center. There was no stereo left in the car, so the silence was relatively thick, even when a few drivers gave Rikken the finger as they shot past, beeping. Rikken merely told them to ‘shove it’ and kept going at her regular speed. Kerrek tutted whenever she’d swear, so Rikken resorted to gestures and mouthing the words. It was like a play, or a dance. A few cars would pass; they would exchange shouts of anger and resentment, and be on their way. When Rikken pulled crookedly into the parking lot, Nanashi seemed to breathe relief and help Kerrek out of the car, awkwardly trying to touch the other man as much as possible- holding his arms, brushing his chest against the other, wrapping an arm around his obviously larger bicep- Rikken’s eyes softened at the sight, glad that her brother was getting attention from people other then females and homophobes. She led the two again, sensing that Kerrek was once again, staying close to the other male.
In truth, Kerrek was thrilled to have met Nanashi. It was a few months ago, really, when Kerrek had taken a job as a bouncer at the dance club ‘Croix’. He had landed it because of an older woman that owned the place, and how she had attended one of her nephew’s football games- and saw Kerrek kick. She had offered him a job there, allowing Kerrek to have any drink free- as long as he worked well. And it was evident- Kerrek flirted with her to keep the job, too. That was when he had met Nanashi.
It wasn’t really a ‘their eyes met across the room’ deal. More of a… The young man was high on ecstasy, given to him by some black-haired man. One thing led to another, and the poor thing was about to be raped in the alley where Kerrek guarded the VIP entrance. Hearing some shouts, and a yelp of pain, Kerrek found the two in a compromising position. Ripping the man away from Nanashi, who was pinned to the wall, Kerrek took him back to his own apartment. Rikken, luckily, was on a school trip to… Ah, he couldn’t remember. All he knew was that it was free, and it was overnight, so she went. Kerrek was fired from his job that night, for leaving his post to go home- allowing a few unwanted guests to come and crash the party- so he decided it was fine. He had saved some boy’s virginity. Kerrek allowed Nanashi to sleep on the loveseat, not wanting him to throw up on Rikken’s bed if he was to be sick. He admired his face, almost female when asleep, and also shook his head at the other’s stupidity. Then again, you never knew in this city. It wasn’t the safest, most wholesome place ever.
That morning, Nanashi awoke to breakfast a la Kerrek, which meant something that could be made in about three minutes in their tiny stove. He was also greeted with the naked chef- well, nearly. Kerrek had taken a shower that morning, and had ushered Nanashi to have one, too. He wore a towel around himself, visibly blushing as he realized that he had been making breakfast for a reason. Either Kerrek was trying to be cute, or he was seriously absent minded. He clutched the towel around himself, trying to hitch it up while pushing Nanashi to the bathroom and instructing him as to where the soap and shampoo was. Nanashi appreciated his efforts- even introduced himself- and showered in a stranger’s house. It was like a fairytale. Nashi was frightened, but somehow set at ease when Kerrek began to get clumsy and nervous. Now it was as if Kerrek had known Nashi the whole time, flirting shamelessly and touching innocently. Rikken, on the other hand, hadn’t found anyone very interesting lately. School was over, and she had never had many friends. Everyone was either a subject, a peer, or not to have time wasted on them. She had always seen it that way, and now, more then ever. She passed three giggling girls in a group, two of them from one or two of her classes. Rikken moved easily to the girls changing room, while the other two slipped into the men’s’.
Rikken smelt chlorine. Chlorine, chlorine, sweat, people and chlorine. It made her eyes water, but she stood it. Taking a corner to herself, she noticed a young woman- maybe a little younger then she- changing into a black and pink bathing suit. Not only was her bathing suit pink, but her hair was, too. Luna. The name popped into her head quickly as she slipped off her shorts and shirt. Rikken pulled the shirt over her head, desperately trying to catch another glimpse of Luna’s long, straight pink hair. This time, though, Luna was staring back at her.
Rikken blushed, not looking away as Luna nodded towards her, smiling shyly. Trying not to look at her suit or her hair, Rikken focused on the pretty blue eyes that stood out against the pink hair and flushed cheeks. Rikken smiled and greeted her, too, with a polite nod. And that was that. Seconds later, the two were on separate routes to the outside world, free from the musty smell of people and old bathing suits. Rikken wore a black one, if you could call that colour black. Rikken had picked up the black bathing suit at some police auction, cleaned it until the dye had faded at least ten shades, and then tried dying it black again. It was pathetic, but worked. She guessed. Finally out of the change room and in the hallway, Rikken spotted her pretty couple- well, she spotted part of Kerrek. The silver-blonde hair and large, suspiciously moving shoulder wasn’t hard to miss. Rikken walked towards them quickly, wanting to go to the pool as soon as possible. Maybe she would see Luna? Maybe they could ‘hang out’, whatever that meant. By the time Rikken reached the pair, she had to turn back, blushing furiously.
Kerrek had pinned Nanashi to the wall, pressing himself against the younger man. Either he was kissing his neck, or ear, or something- or Nanashi had a very peculiar look on his face as Kerrek whispered sweet nothings into his ear, both running hands through each other’s hair and… doing more besides. Rikken cleared her throat loudly, causing Kerrek to freeze and turn around, blushing and clearing the hair from his face. Nashi blushed even harder, attempting to hide behind Kerrek and not meeting Rikken’s eyes. She reached up and grabbed a piece of Kerrek’s hair, causing him to yelp as she pulled him towards the door to the pools. I guess it’s a sister’s job to manhandle the older brother once he got out of line. Thing was- Kerrek knew that she could- and would- use this as blackmail.
“Rikken…” he groaned dangerously, still being led by a lock of blonde hair. The girl ignored him, opening the door and once again leading the two men around. Finding a relatively abandoned post, Rikken set down a towel and her Kerrek. After thoroughly checking for hemorrhaging on his scalp, Kerrek gave Rikken a grin, picking up the towel beside him. Rikken yelped and ran as he threatened to make a rat’s tail, and was chastised by the lifeguard’s whistle for running around the pool. Rikken apologized by bowing slightly, and continued to walk away from her brother and his advancing love interest.
Kerrek sat contentedly as Nanashi came over, sitting close to him. Kerrek gave his free hand to the other, making him get up and sit between his legs, so that the bigger man could rest his chin on Nanashi’s shoulder. The smaller one sighed contentedly, even through dirty looks both men and women were giving him. No one could touch him when he was practically sitting on Kerrek’s lap. Hands moving slowly, he found the rough cast that Kerrek had on. Nanashi had been kissing Kerrek at that meet- that was why the angry idiot jumped them, screaming obscenities and shouting about God. Kerrek fought, but not hard enough for the thirty-something, three-hundred-pound lummox to step on his arm. Nanashi had felt responsible- hence coming around nearly every day to check on him. He had never met Rikken before, and wasn’t impressed with his first impression of her. She was quiet, bossy, and nosey, what with her hopping in on them snogging. However, Kerrek seemed to like her well enough, so he could stand her. It wasn’t like she was doing it on purpose, anyway. She had been away with friends, or something- he didn’t know. It wasn’t his to ask, anyway.
Kerrek began to stroke Nanashi’s arm, whispering that he was ‘returning the favor’. Nanashi realized then that he had been fiddling with the rough edges of the cast, thinking of their adventures. The smell of chlorine and sweat finally penetrated his attention, along with the sounds of the pool that seemed to have been muted as he thought. He felt Kerrek wrap himself tighter around him, and wished that there were less people staring. One young man even shot Nashi the finger- bringing a lighthearted thumbs-up from Kerrek. He loved it when Kerrek did this- no matter what happened, he was still courteous. Kerrek seemed to rest his mouth on Nanashi’s shoulder, too, until the younger man realized that he was kissing it. Nanashi shuddered, leaning back. Ah, this is too much sappiness. It’ll get more exciting later ;3
Rikken moved embarrassedly further away from the lovebirds, spotting Luna talking to two young men. One was their age, long-ish blonde hair already wet. He wore light blue swimming trunks, and seemed to be an all-around good boy. The other, his friend, seemed not to be in such a position. Black suit on pale skin, and shoulder-length black hair framing a slightly sour face. He even wore a collar- how cute. Rikken caught up with Luna, getting a smile and a nod when she got there. The Blue-trunked blonde grinned and bowed, and the collared boy tried to smirk. Rikken blushed at the blonde’s greeting, bowing back and steered clear of the pale boy. He didn’t seem friendly, with that look on his face. Luna, as if reading her mind, turned to the pale one’s still-trying-to-smirk face- still looking at Rikken, too.
“Tseris, what are you, constipated?”
A hoot of laughter came from the other boy, who punched a blushing Tseris- pronounced ‘sair-is’- in the arm. After the punching, though, the blonde extended a hand to Rikken, smiling shyly. He mentioned his name being Kuro, and Rikken replied with her own name. Luna snaked an arm around Rikken’s waist, standing on her tip-toes to reach Rikken’s eye-level with the top of her head. She grinned and revealed that they had been talking about her.
“See? She’s only a year older, but she’s that much taller then me!” she seemed to pout, dropping the arm from an embarrassed Rikken. She blushed and smiled, putting an arm over Luna’s shoulder and accentuating her giantism.
“Don’t worry, little Luni. You’ll grow up, one day.” She smiled sweetly in Luna’s direction, trying out the flirtatious smile that Kerrek gave her before sending her running from a rat’s tail. Luna blushed madly, smiling through it. Tseris stepped up, moving close to show that he was at least a head taller then Rikken. Rikken blushed, not moving away. She had taught herself never to move away- it gave others the upper hand. Maybe she was psychotic for thinking that way, but hey, it was true. Displeased with her lack of submission, Tseris spoke finally, his voice deep but airy. Rikken could only think of one thing when she heard the voice- snake.
“But look how short she is compared to me!” he began, but was pushed away by Kuro. Rikken was nearly his height.
“She’s not that short, Tseris. Look, she’s my age and she’s nearly as tall as me!”
Another push and Tseris was standing close again, examining her face. Blush, but no looking away. This was strange. “She’s still short, Kuro.” And another push.
“Come on, Tseris, you’re seventeen! And you’re the tallest guy in your year.”
And another push.
And a splash.
This time, Rikken had to look away. Not many watched as a trail of bubbles escaped the young man that sank with closed eyes into the deep end of the pool. Luna swore under her breath, telling Rikken that ‘oh my god, he hit his head!’. Where was the lifeguard? Where in hell was that stupid lifeguard!? They looked up to see that the chair was empty, most likely the lifeguard switching shifts. Luna tugged at Rikken’s arm, as if expecting her to save him. Was that what she wanted her to do? Jump in and save a boy she didn’t know? There wasn’t time to waste. Rikken gave Tseris a glare, jumping into the pool. Opening her eyes, Rikken screamed inwardly as the chlorine chewed through her eyeballs. Nevertheless, she saw a faint blur of tan and blue, propelling herself towards it and seeing it more clearly as she did so. Rikken came close enough to count the ribs on his side before wrapping her arms around him and lifting him up. She was running out of air. Not taking the chance to equalize the pressure that was killing her head, she shot up to the surface. What if she got bubbles? Worse, what if this hurt Kuro? What if he was dead? She was touching a dead body she was touching a dead body shewastouchingadeadbodyyyyy!!! No, calm down. Rikken paddled towards the shallow end, hearing a few screams as they, too, finally realized that she was carrying a dead man. Rikken swallowed, finding it extremely difficult to keep Kuro up when she had the physique of a toothpick and the water was getting more and more shallow. Thankfully, a familiar arm came to her, along with a slightly less familiar pair. Kerrek took the younger man from her, hitching him over his shoulder with the help of a fluttering, thin Nanashi. Rikken noted that if Nanashi were a girl, he would probably have her type of body- only strong where it counted. Rikken jogged up to where Kerrek gently lay the boy, feeling incredibly dizzy from overexertion in an environment that hadn’t air. She leaned over the boy, checking for any signs of breathing- none. She looked helplessly at Kerrek, who had been a lifeguard over last summer. He knew what to do, right? Rikken really didn’t have a chance to tell- the dizziness had really gotten to her. She coughed, shuddered, and began to sway. Nashi, being ready for anything, steadied her as she fell unconscious, sitting up.
And this is the end of chapter one x.x What do you think? I need a name for the city, and I’m sorry if you didn’t want me to sorta-kinda steal the dance-club idea .__.; XD;; Sorry. I hope you like it ;3 My gift to you before I go ^__^ <3 Love for you!
Chapter 2
Kerrek continued to press into the young boy’s chest, counting to five before checking his breathing. There were murmurs over the pool, and there were splashy, running footsteps coming heavily over. The lifeguard was given dirty looks by the kids that were there to see what happened, some of them fussing over Rikken. Kerrek looked up a moment at his sister, seeing that she had passed out in Nanashi’s arms. Poor thing… In that moment he had lost rhythm, so he took a new one. Ear hovering over the young man’s mouth, he felt no breath. The lifeguard didn’t do anything, seeming entranced with what was happening. Kerrek punched into Kuro’s chest again, five times, then plugged his nose. He pressed his mouth over the other’s, blowing in and watching his small chest inflate as he blew. He felt a gurgle coming from the boy, bubbling in his throat. He moved away as a sputter of water came from the boy’s mouth, brown eyes fluttering open and staying unfocused. They then landed on Kerrek, frightened and confused. Kerrek grinned, looking up at everyone and announcing that he would be alright. Some clapped, others sighed with relief. Some older ones even began to scold the lifeguard that was supposed to be on duty. It was alright, now. Everything would be alright. Kerrek helped Nanashi carry the limp Rikken to a pool chair, a few people coming to see how she was. Kuro was carried by some black-haired boy and a pink-haired girl. Well, more like the black haired boy was helping him stand and get to the chair beside Rikken, and the girl was bossing him around to get there. Kerrek had both of Rikken’s legs in one arm as Nanashi struggled with her top half. Rikken looked as if she were rousing, eyes fluttering as she was placed on the chair. He hadn’t seen his sister like this since…
“Is she okay?”
The little blonde was shaking, but he still managed to come free of the punk’s grasp and sit up in the chair. Luna, the pink-haired girl, came to one side of Rikken, kneeling to see her face. Rikken moved a bit, and Kerrek moved closer, trying to pull the hair that was getting stuck beneath her back. Instead of that, all he got was a smack in the face. Rikken awoke, punching the head looming over her quickly, despite her drowsy state. She really couldn’t hurt anyone, and her sight was poor due to all those pretty stars, but she didn’t want anyone near her. There were laughs as she did this, slow and echoing, but they were there. Rikken frowned, lifting her head slowly to see what was going on. Where was she? Had she passed out? Was she in a hospital? The questions were making her dizzy, and there were voices. Kerrek’s voice, followed by someone else’s… Rikken tried to tune them out, but she ended up being lifted just enough so that she could sit somewhere properly. She was at the pools. There were people everywhere. Finding the closest blonde head, Rikken latched on to it, telling him that she wanted to go home. She wondered why Kerrek’s hair wasn’t as long as it was before. It was also softer, but wet, as well.
“Uh… Okay. Don’t worry, we’ll go home.”
It seemed so nice to finally… Rikken heard a different voice, besides Kerrek’s. She didn’t care though, not at the moment. Slowly, though, she began to realize that hanging on to a stranger’s neck wasn’t the best way to get home. She moved away slowly, examining the face of whomever she was holding on to. Whoever he was, he was blushing madly. Rikken’s face heated up- or cooled down, she couldn’t tell- and turned red as she was pulled away by one arm. Kerrek was grinning as he pulled the confused thing up to her feet, apologizing for her mislead actions. Rikken pinched the bridge of her nose, shaking her head before focusing on the youth across the chair. Kuro! It was that boy! She began to realize what had happened, eyes widening. Before she knew it, she was asking the boy questions.
“Oh! Kuro! Are you alright? You’re not… Dead?”
Rikken stopped herself before she could say anything else, pushing Kerrek away so that she could stand. Luna stood, grinning, and propped Rikken up with her shoulder. Rikken accepted her as a crutch, and listened to what she had to say.
“Rikken’s just really tired, probably. So I think we should take her home. Rikken?”
Rikken nodded, smiling shyly. Kerrek stepped in, offering them rides. Tseris was hesitant, but when Kuro nodded, he seemed to agree. Nanashi grinned up at Kerrek, and Luna held Rikken up while looking at him hopefully. Kerrek nodded, counting them up. Six. Six people, one truck. Kerrek shook his head and grinned, deciding that now would be a good time for everyone to get ready.
***
After about ten minutes, everyone was ready and at the car. Rikken was back in her shorts, having been conscious enough to change herself. Luna wore a sleeveless black summer dress, black and white striped stockings covering her legs. Her arms also had stocking on them, but fashioned into gloves- why she was wearing all this was beyond Kerrek. Rikken, on the other hand, liked the stuff. She played with the little rabbit earring Luna had on, a fuzzy bunny dangling from her ear. Rikken, of course, had stayed in her gray shorts and red shirt, followed closely by Kuro in a blue-striped button-down and cargo shorts. Tseris stayed close to Luna, dressed in a black wife beater and pockety-pants, of which brand Kerrek could only guess. Nanashi had borrowed an extra pair of Kerrek’s pants, holding on to them unsurely, despite the overlarge belt around them. He had also borrowed a shirt that Kerrek had in the back of the car, a brown one that seemed to make his green eyes light up. Kerrek was wearing what he wore to the place, light blue jeans and mesh shirt, and lifted Rikken into the back of the truck. She nodded to Kerrek, who gave her a mock salute back. Rikken rolled her eyes and helped Luna up, then Kuro. When Tseris came, he looked down, ashamed of what he had done back at the pool. Rikken simply grinned, shaking her head and allowing him to take her hands and get into the back of the truck. Luna took a seat at one side of Kuro, in the corner. Rikken sat beside Kuro, too, leaning against the spare tire he was sitting in. She moved over to allow Tseris to sit beside her, his arms wrapping around the outside of the truck. Kerrek looked at them through his rearview mirror, calling out to see if they were all alright. Rikken gave him a thumbs-up, and he grinned, backing out of the parking lot. Despite a broken arm, Kerrek still seemed a master of the road, polite but quick. Rikken hardly noticed that Tseris was speaking to her.
“Uh… Sorry about what I did.”
Rikken looked at him, surprised. His arm had slipped from the truck, and was now over her shoulders. She didn’t like to be touched. Rikken shrugged, telling him that he shouldn’t apologize to her. He nodded, looking at Kuro a moment before muttering something about ‘later’. Rikken turned to Luna, who was talking to her over the blonde.
“Rikken… About your brother.”
Rikken nodded, grinning. A lot of people asked her about that.
“I saw him like… Well, you know… With that guy. Is he…?”
She didn’t have to finish her sentence. Rikken nodded, still smiling.
“Yes, he is. Why? Are you afraid?”
She laughed at this, getting one from Luna as well. She shook her head no, crawling over to Rikken. Rikken, in turn, led her to the other side of the truck so that they could talk. Kuro nearly went with them, but was held back by Tseris. He said something into Kuro’s ear, getting a nod and a noogie back. Tseris took both, merely rolling his eyes. Kuro said something along the lines of ‘I’m not dead, am I?’, to him, getting a heated comment back from his friend. Meanwhile, Rikken talked about Kerrek to Luna.
“He’s sweet, really. Once you get to know him. He’s also a real gigolo, if you catch my drift.” Rikken whispered this to Luna, who giggled and covered her mouth. Kuro then crawled over, asking what they were giggling about. Rikken shrugged, allowing Luna to speak for her. After being told, Kuro gave a mock sly glance towards Kerrek, missing his turned eyes by a moment and being caught. Rikken and Luna giggled as Kerrek winked back, smiling at the sixteen-year-old. Kuro blushed intensely again, looking back at the two girls as he tried to change the subject. He sat on one side of Luna, Rikken on the other. Tseris was left sitting back where he had been, looking slightly sullen. Luna invited him over, but he seemed not to hear. Kuro shrugged and said that Tseris got like that sometimes. Especially when girls were around. Rikken smiled, shrugging the behavior off easily. If he didn’t want to join the party, he didn’t have to. Not that the back of a truck was any place to have a party.
After what seemed only minutes, the sun began to set. Kerrek had gotten directions from Tseris, who had merited a seat between the two lovers. Nanashi and Tseris were having a lively conversation about something or another, Kerrek looking sullen and jealous as he drove, his usually full lips at thin line of contempt. He tried to enter the conversation at times, but Tseris seemed to rebuke the words he gave almost instantly. Nanashi seemed oblivious to this, of course, but tried to include Kerrek from time to time. Rikken observed this sleepily, resting her head on Luna’s. Luna’s head was tucked against her chest, arms wrapped loosely around her, seemingly asleep. Kuro had made his way to the other side of Rikken, allowing her to rest against him, just as Luna slept against her. The three looked considerably cozy, nestled against eachother, when the truck came to a slow halt.
“Kuro, get out. We’re going to my place.”
Rikken roused herself almost instantly, accidentally waking Luna as well. She looked behind her at what was supposed to be Tseris’ neighborhood. Kerrek quickly shouted to Kuro to sit down, and that he was going to go into the driveway. Kuro plopped down obediently, and the truck popped and sputtered into the drive. Rikken… She had passed these houses many times on her way to the library, or to the park. Kerrek had driven with her, past all these houses, telling her which one they would buy when they were rich. And Rikken had always told him that ‘rich’ just wouldn’t cut it for these houses.
You had to be friggin’ loaded.
Tseris climbed over Nanashi to get out, withdrawing a growl from Kerrek. Kerrek opened his door to get out, Nanashi following close behind. Rikken and Kuro hopped out of the truck, both taking one of Luna’s hands so that she could come out safely. Luna whispered something to Rikken, which made her grin and nod. She leaned against the door of the passenger’s side, pulling something like a pen out from between seats and scrawling her number onto the other girl’s hand. The two seemed to act now, closer, more like girlish-friends then before. Maybe it was the pool incident. Perhaps the fact that they had spent the day together. Rikken seemed happier, as Kerrek noted from the doorway. Anything to make her happier. Kuro even came and spoke to them, the three like sirens, encircling each other carefully, yet lovingly. Siblings, even. Kerrek’s glittering blue eyes softened at this sight, making him appear more gentle, more vulnerable. Nanashi saw this, hooking an arm around Kerrek’s slight waist. Kerrek, in turn, wrapped a strong arm around Nanashi’s shoulders, starting when the door opened suddenly.
A butler? These people were going all out. Tseris merely nodded to him, turning and shouting a command to Kuro. The blonde boy turned suddenly, said goodbye to the other two sirens, and hopped off to the house. Kerrek hadn’t really seen this. He was preoccupied with the look the butler was giving he and his boyfriend. Shocked, appauled, disgusted, slightly angry and even confused, he seemed to be trying not to look at the two. Nanashi was oblivious to this, so Kerrek stood straighter, taking both of Tseris’ hands into his and thanking him with a slightly provocative tone of voice. Nanashi stared for a moment, confused and slightly hurt at Kerrek taking his arms from him to thank Tseris, but soon understood with how the servant ushered Tseris and Kuro inside, closing the door on them.
It was late. Nighttime. Luna told them that she should have been staying at her mother’s house, and gave them directions. On the ride, the girls said nothing, but tangled themselves with each other once more. When finally there, Luna came out and thanked the others for a ride, skipping off to a slightly abandoned-looking, slightly dilapidated house with just a slightly malnourished lawn and slightly boarded-up windows. Rikken was confused- but said nothing. She then called out to Luna, having had an idea.
“Luna…”
“Yes?”
“Ask your mum if you can stay over, won’t you?”
Luna looked slightly confused, then worried, then happy. She called back quickly, shaking her head.
“I’m sure she won’t mind, Rikken-ey. I’ll come over tonight.”
Rikken grinned placidly, lifting Luna up so that she could get into the trunk. Kerrek didn’t seem to complain, catching on to what Rikken was thinking quickly, with a mere glance from the girl. He didn’t need to be told twice- He shifted gears easily, hooking an arm around Nanashi’s headrest. Luna and Rikken spoke quietly as they were driven to the apartment, hearing the low beginnings of someone’s band on the first floor. Rikken had loved this apartment, still did- but at night, things didn’t seem to stop. Soon, Rikken had given up trying to sleep, only napping when she felt like it. She was lucky it was summertime. Otherwise, the school would probably kick her out for sleeping during her classes- It didn’t really matter. Next year would be her last. October, she would turn seventeen, and after that, she would be off. Rikken grinned at the building, finding herself standing before the truck had stopped sputtering. The apartment’s name, as it said in peeling letters on the front glass, was the St. John’s the Baptist Hall. And what a hall. The beautiful sand and cigarette-butt filled flower-planters, the scattered pebbles around the entrance, the mostly-dead cars littered around the parking lot like so many dead and dying soldiers. The few and far-between people, one or two elderly people walking with no aim around the pot-smoking teens that gathered to share a doobie. Rikken wrinkled her nose at the smell of marijuana, remembering how another girl had asked her if she smoked pot. Rikken had too much to lose if she did get addicted, and Kerrek would kill her. She had laughed, showing white teeth and regularly-sized pupils in sockets that were not puffy- just hollow from lack of sleep. No one had asked her afterwards. Rikken, the nerd, was clean.
Blitzing out of the back of the truck, Rikken took Luna’s hand and led her towards the doors to wait for Kerrek and his key. Rikken didn’t seem to have the patience for Kerrek to come over, holding Nanashi’s hand in a much more sensual way then she had held Luna’s, speaking in low murmurs and giggling with the other boy. It was enough to make Rikken fake gagging in front of her brother and his friend, causing small, sick choking noises to escape her. Luna blushed but giggled, covering her mouth as Kerrek glared at his little sister and unlocked the door. Rikken immediately took off, Luna following close behind.
After a little while, the sun was still setting slowly, visibility hindered by passing clouds and tall buildings. Rikken stared out at the view with her friend on the balcony, sounds of Kerrek, Nashi and the TV muffled by the glass sliding door. The two girls leaned against the metal frame, listening to cars and people down in the streets below. There weren’t so many people as in the day time- but this city was crowded as it was. Rikken suddenly leaned forward, causing Luna to jump. The pale girl lifted herself up with minor difficulties, standing on the metal and pulling herself up to the next floor’s balcony. She then stuck a hand out for Luna to grab, lifting the other girl up to that floor with her. They repeated this once more, until the two were on the roof. Luna looked down, alarmed at what she had just done with the help of Rikken. The other girl simply laughed, sitting down beside Luna and crossing her legs.
“I do this when Kerrek’s at work and I have a day off.”
“How come you don’t use the stairs?”
“It’s boring. Besides, I wanted to scare you a little. I didn’t think you’d come up with--”
“You just did this to frighten me?!”
“No! I thought you wouldn’t come up. I would have stayed with you.”
“…Oh. I’m glad you took me up here. But…”
“…Yeah?”
“Let’s use the stairs next time.”
“…Okay.”
The two laughed quietly, not finding any sense in what they had just said. But it felt good to laugh like this for once, with a friend. It was summer. Nothing to study. Nothing to do at work, because the business had taken a few weeks off. The café was somebody’s family’s business, so they had probably gone somewhere nice and hot. Rikken was fine where they were- it was already hot enough, and there was at least one place in the big city where they could cool off. And there were dance clubs, where her big brother worked. There were cafés, and restaurants, and all sorts of other places where Rikken could never afford to eat. There were people everywhere, and sunsets, and a bit of a woodland near the edge of town. And there was a rolling countryside, and suburbs, and golf clubs and equestrian’s stables. All sorts of things were a part of this city- Rikken enjoyed her environment. She wanted to stay here as long as possible.
“Luna…”
Luna’s face had a small, dark cloud hang over it for a moment as Rikken requested her attention. Was the other girl going to ask about the house? The absence of a mother? Luna braced herself for the worst, cringing as the words came from Rikken’s unknowing mouth. And yet, this time, the question was gentle. Not mocking like others had been. Not demanding, like the truant officer, or the police. Luna hated the question, but the horrid things were masked by a kind voice. It was almost okay to hear her say this. But then… Wait, was she even going to ask what Luna thought she was going to ask?
“Hm?”
“About your mum…”
“…Oh.”
“Are you… Do you want to stay at my house for a little while? It gets lonely at night, without Kerrek. He works night shifts now, ‘cause it fits better with college. And well… I was thinking that… I dunno. Uhh…”
“I’ll stay.”
“…You will? You’re sure?”
“Of course! I’d love to. Besides, it gets lonely with… When my mum’s working nights, too.”
It was no use really saying anything like that, but Luna was sure that Rikken had figured it out by now. Then again, Rikken could just be extremely naïve. Or thick. Rikken was neither, but at times, it was hard to tell whether she understood and was playing along, or if she was truly oblivious. Nevertheless, Rikken looked significantly pleased, swinging her legs happily. She then stopped suddenly, her eyes widening. Luna looked at her, confused as the other girl squirmed and leapt back, lifting her legs up in the air and twisting around. She didn’t make a noise until she twisted, some gravel raking against the roof as her bottom slid it around. She hopped away from the edge of the roof, grabbing Luna around her middle and pulling her back. Luna seemed to make a squeak noise as something else grabbed her foot, not letting go of the socked thing so easily. Finally, the striped thing slipped off her leg, and the two girls flew back onto the roof. Rikken moaned piteously, suddenly launching herself and grabbing something from the edge. Shouting at the top of her lungs, she yanked at something, getting a shout- definitely male- back from their attacker.
“Kerrek! You idiot! What the hell are you doing?!”
“Holy crap Rikken, I wanted to tell you that we were leaving!”
“Kerrek, you could have friggin’ told us from the balcony, we’re not deaf!”
“Don’t you friggin’ me, lady- You are so dead when I get my hands on you!”
“What the hell are you doing scaring us like that, then?! You freaking idiot, I could have fallen! Worse, Luna!”
The mild rude words and shouting went on, Nanashi and Luna suddenly giggling at the two fighting. Rikken was hanging up-side-down by her legs over the ledge of the roof, pulling Kerrek’s hair up. Kerrek was standing on their neighbor’s balcony, his hands over Rikken’s much smaller ones, trying to get her to let go. They were lucky Cid was probably out walking, looking for inspiration for a new invention. Kerrek finally grabbed Rikken’s arms, allowing her to scream- the sound was cold, high and glass-like, delicate but piercing. She fell, but with practice, had learned to propel herself to catch Kerrek. Kerrek, in turn, let her go down to the lower level of the balconies.
After what seemed like hours, Kerrek and Nashi were ready to leave. Rikken was still angry with him, but gave him a stiff hug and a kiss before he left. Every night- no matter what, they had to leave each other with at least some form of love. Who knows what could happen to either of them? Rikken closed the door behind them and locked it cautiously, her usually calm face weary and tired. She looked… Different to Luna, as if she was burdened. Rikken went into the kitchen, pulling out some leftover pizza from the fridge.
“You like pizza, right?”
“Uh, sure.”
“Is there anything on it you don’t like?”
Luna shook her head no. She wasn’t allergic to anything as far as she knew, and she took anything she could eat. The older girl sat down on the counter, waiting for the oven to warm the leftovers. The kitchen was modest as the house- a fridge and stove that came with the apartment, two counters and a simple, silver sink. It was ugly, but it was also expected in such an apartment. Everything was expected. Except, of course, the unusual outbursts of activity- one moment, everything was calm. The next, there could be heard running and panting outside their door, even at one point during their meal a slam and a squeal. Rikken got up quickly, picking up a broom from the wall and batting at whatever was out there. She could be heard shouting at the people, then getting a response in a different language. Rikken then responded in the same language, though her accents weren’t the same. They would argue for a few seconds, then Rikken would slam the door. There were no more slams, nor screams right outside their door anymore.
Luna… She was afraid to ask, really. She hadn’t remembered living in an apartment. Before her mother had left, they had lived all together, in some house near the library- it was the stuff of books. She was then left with her father, after Mother had left. After a few weeks of missing her mother, her father became violent- Luna was lucky to get out while she could. Luna could remember little, but she still knew that she couldn’t go back. If her mother ever came back to her dad, then he could go through the shame of telling her what she had done. Luna was pulled from her thoughts when Rikken spoke again, wondering aloud how Kerrek and Nanashi were holding up.
They were doing well, to say the least.
It had turned out that Kerrek’s boss had called in a sub, because he had been late about ten minutes. Knowing Kerrek, he was never late, so they had decided that he wasn’t coming. This gave Kerrek the option of staying at the club, or going home.
Needless to say, he chose the former, with help from his better half.
Rikken says:
God, I wish people would stop telling me what to do about them.
Rikken says:
It's not like I'm unhappy.
[Nãthï§] says:
well, you could always go with my plan XD
[Nãthï§] says:
burn the house@
Taylor always knows exactly what to say ^__^