Kingdom Hearts Fan Fiction ❯ Out of My Element ❯ Growing Anticipation ( Chapter 21 )

Chapter 21: Growing Anticipation

Demxy's head was on his chest. His face was peaceful now, the pale light of morning pouring in from the open window. Axel thought he couldn't have been anymore beautiful, drained of the pain and sound asleep from exhaustion. He wondered if this changed anything, if knowing was a right of passage into the mind of this person who was dear to his heart… When Demyx woke up, would everything be different, would it stay the same?

Moving his eyes away, Axel stared at the ceiling where the palely glowing stars seemed to dance playfully one another. This room… Demyx had transformed it, filling it with memories that Axel had long forgotten. Days in which life was easier, simpler… Axel was just a boy then, knowing nothing of the struggles of being a man, blissfully unaware of Reno's responsibilities. It was the time before Axel realized exactly who he was and the way the world worked, before school was chore.

Is that what it reminded Demyx of? Simple days that were happier than these ones… Were these ones so unhappy? Axel liked to think not.

This thing, this relationship, had changed him somehow and Axel felt it was for the better. He felt less reserved, more hopeful than before. It was as though the shutters had been closed before and now they'd been torn down to light up the world around him. In the blink of an eye…

Axel's gaze fell fondly back on Demyx's face and he gently stroked his cheek. At the touch, Demyx's eyes fluttered and slowly drew open. His expression remained blank a moment, those ocean blue eyes staring into his own. Then he closed them again and a smile spread across his face. Pressing his cheek into Axel's chest, he took a breath in that seemed to bring him to life.

Stretching, he hugged Axel to him tight, “This makes everything better…” He murmured and opened his eyes again to look out the window. So early… But Demyx didn't complain about being up and instead placed a kiss on Axel's collarbone, “I'm sorry if I kept you up… I know you have that test today.” He mentioned and Axel shook his head to dismiss the idea of needing an apology, “I hope you do well. You deserve it.”

Axel hummed to himself, “Maybe…” Everything was normal again, “I told Roxas I'd give him some time after the test.”

“You should…” Demyx agreed, “I'd hate to come between you two. He loves you a lot…”

“Hm?” Axel sat up some.

“You know what I mean… Your friends love you.” Pushing himself up, he ran his fingers through is messy hair.

Axel sighed and sat up too. Resting his chin on Demyx's shoulder, he wrapped an arm around him, “Yours love you too.”

Smiling knowing, Demyx nodded, “I know… Maybe I'll call them today.” He murmured and Axel knew he was talking about his friends from the coast. They probably needed to talk. If Demyx was going to get past this, he'd have to be honest with them.

Then Axel kissed him on the shoulder and the morning continued as usual until Axel left for the testing center.

Afterwards, he picked up Roxas at his house and drove them to the theater. They'd decided on a new SciFi horror that had come out two weeks earlier, the theater was quiet and relatively empty so they actually rather enjoyed themselves. They didn't talk much until after the movie when they hit one of restaurants just outside the building. Even then, it wasn't anything serious. Axel enjoyed their back and forth banter for what it's worth. Though, Roxas probably enjoyed it far less upon hearing more intimate details about his and Demyx's relationship.

By the time he dropped Roxas off, he was sorely missing Demyx. It felt like ages since he'd seen him, but they'd only just kissed goodbye that morning. Unfortunately, he wasn't allowed to enjoy being reunited with the musician as Reno and Rude were waiting for him when he got home. They stood in the front room and turned to him when he entered the house.

Axel's heart sank. Did Rude say something to Reno? Was the gig up already?

“What's up, bro?” Axel winced a little at the way the question sounded on his lips. Sometimes when he was nervous he adopted his brother's mannerisms, such as the use of the words `bro' and `yo' and other things ending in `o'. Hopefully, Reno didn't catch that, “Where's Demyx?” He added looking around.

Reno tossed his thumb over his shoulder, “Out back, yo. Erm… So here's the deal, bro. I, uh… Er… The boss man called today.” Axel's sinking heart didn't lift at this and he prayed that this wasn't a meeting to tell him Demyx was moving in with Rufus. He waited in silence for a moment, before noticing Reno's body language. He was nervous? Rubbing the back of his head, Reno looked up at the ceiling, “He didn't sound happy and, uh… Invited us for lunch tomorrow.”

“Us?” Repeated Axel looking to Rude. Statuesque, Rude stood in complete silence. If he was there for emotional support, he certainly didn't exude comfort.

“Yup, you and me, little bro.” Reno grinned anxiously.

“Not Rude?”

Reno grimaced and looked up at Rude, “Not Rude…” He confirmed, shifting anxiously now rubbing his neck with his hand. This couldn't be very good. Just a meeting with Rufus, Reno, and himself? No doubt it was about Demyx… After all, Rude didn't live here with Rufus's cousin and, well, Rufus really didn't usually want to see much of Axel. He wasn't a bad guy or anything, but they weren't friends either… Maybe, Axel didn't want to see him because it felt like meeting Demyx's parents. He hoped his guilt wouldn't be written all over his face.

“So, uh… What does this meeting entail?” Axel asked as he set his bag down carefully on the couch.

Reno shrugged, “Didn't say, yo.”

Great…

Sitting there across the table from Rufus with Reno by his side, Axel felt sick to his stomach. Rufus had opted for a more formal meeting at the office and they were sitting in one of the executive meeting rooms. The windows had a wonderful view of the city, but the starkness of the room was gut-wrenching. Since they'd arrived, Rufus hadn't spoken a word and had sat by idly, eating in pleasant (or not so pleasant) silence. Reno seemed to be suffering from the same affliction as Axel because neither of them could seem to eat more than a few bites of the food in front of them.

And Rufus just took his own sweet time eating, irregardless of how anxious his guests were.

Dressed to impress, Rufus ate as refined as he looked. Each movement was precise and directed, carried out with such mechanical ease Axel wondered if he were truly human. But did robots eat human food? Could they? This humor wasn't helping relax him. Why were they here? It was driving Axel nuts!

Rufus probably saw it by the way he would secretly smile at them from his superior chair across the way. Were they being punished? But for what? Would he just get this over with?!

Heart skittering a bit, Axel perked when Rufus finally placed his silver spoon on his equally silver platter. He leaned forward and pressed the intercom button located at the center of the table, “Collect the plates.” Was all he murmured amiably into the device before lacing his fingers on the countertop and waiting patiently. Again, the room was filled with silence that Axel swore he could possibly drown in. Then a lovely young woman came in and quickly cleared the plates away.

Business continued on as usual, silence continuing to bore down on Reno and Axel as if this silent treatment might break them. Getting up, Rufus turned his back to them and went to the window to look out over the city as though he owned it, “I received the most peculiar message from my secretary this week concerning my sister's son.” Demyx, Axel thought, your cousin does have a name.

Rufus fell quiet as if waiting for some confession but the brothers cast inquisitive glances at one another. Axel shrugged and Rufus saw it, “It appears that aside from a select few courses, he hasn't been attending class on a regular basis.” Turning Rufus stared them down like the hawk he was, “Care to explain this mystery to me? I've been puzzling over it and I can't seem to decide who's more at fault: you two for not looking after him or me for thinking you could handle it.”

Reno shrank and Axel wished his brother would stand up a little more to his boss. Rufus certainly did know how to intimidate his minions, didn't he? Swallowing hard, Axel lifted his chin defiantly, “I personally drive Demyx to school every day.” And was occasionally romantically intimate with him, but that was besides the point, “And I've seen no reason to suspect that he's been skipping.” Except maybe that he might have mentioned it and Axel promptly forgot about it, and that he might have facilitated it once.

Hard eyes locking directly onto Axel, Reno bowed his head, hopefully feeling shameful, “Then I'll hold you directly responsible. I've scheduled a meeting with several of his teachers this Monday after school. You will be there and you will talk some sense into that boy.” Demyx, still he does have a name. Why wouldn't he use it? “You're a smart, level-headed young man. Explain to him how important an education is in this world… He can't always be dreaming of beaches and blue skies…” That last bit sounded regretful, “I won't always be around to take care of him.” Axel was confused again, “I will be calling you to ensure you've taken care of this matter. I'll be out of town next week,” He turned his attention to Reno for a moment and stared at him, “Make sure nothing… Regrettable happens in my absence.” He ordered then waved his hand for the two to leave.

Axel glared at Reno in the hallway, “You owe me.”

“Sure thing, little bro…”

To avoid conflict, Axel didn't talk much to Demyx about the meeting with Rufus. When they got a chance to speak Saturday night, all he told Demyx was that Rufus had set up some meetings with his teachers and that he, instead of Rufus, would be there to oversee. Demyx didn't seem too thrilled about the situation, but Axel couldn't blame him. Axel wanted to go as much as Demyx wanted him to. Certainly, due to their relationship, it was Axel's business but he didn't like how this was going down. Talking it over one on one was more Axel's style. Doing this… It just seemed like going behind Demyx's back or maybe slapping him the face.

When he arrived, he was met by one of the ladies in the front office. She gave him a paper listing Demyx's teachers outlining the ones that had agreed to meet with them. As it turned out, it seemed he must have been a more reliable student on A days because all of their names were accompanied by a sentence `average student, no need for concern'. It seemed to be B days that were the problems with all of those classes stating that Demyx rarely showed and when present displayed a lack of interest. Two of those names requested meeting on a later date.

As a result, only four teachers of the eight would see them today. First on the list was a familiar character. Axel was relieved at that and even more relieved to see that this teacher had not problems with Demyx.

When he found Erik Lanyon's class, Demyx was already there waiting in the front row. Mr. Lanyon was sitting at his desk gathering up some papers. Axel remembered he'd always been kind of a scatter brain, always on the move. He was an average looking man. His short hair was a pale black, his skin an olive complexion, and his hazel eyes were hidden behind round glasses. He wore a suite, but it was never done up neatly.

Clearing his throat to gain attention, Axel knocked on the doorframe before entering. Mr. Lanyon, now standing half bent over his desk in search of something, looked up and adjusted his glasses. For a moment, he seemed to think and then he smiled, “Ah~! Axel, my dear boy! I wasn't expecting you!” He greeted cheerfully. Coming around the desk, he approached quickly and took Axel's hand in a warm handshake, his other hand gripping Axel's wrist, “Demyx said he lived with someone who went to this school but I never imagined~! What a small world- My goodness, how are you?” He asked as he pulled Axel into the class, his words quick and musical. Placing his and on Axel's back, he gestured to a chair, “Please, please. Sit.” Axel did so.

“I'm fine. Going to college.” Axel replied nonchalantly with a shrug. It wasn't a big deal to him, but Mr. Lanyon practically beamed at the news.

“Ah, you were always such a smart boy!” Mr. Lanyon said, emphasizing with a gesture as he returned to his desk. Then he continued to rummage about his desk, “And such a darling little lamb! You and your brother, sweethearts!” He assured, as if anyone in the room needed assurance on the matter.

“Yeah…” Axel drawled, casting a glass Demyx's way but Demyx wasn't paying much attention. He looked lost in the classroom, as if he didn't belong, “So, how is Lisa?” He asked, hoping that maybe he could get these formalities out of the way quickly. Not that he didn't like his old English professor, but he wanted to get home to be alone with Demyx tonight. They hadn't a moment alone since Saturday night, which they had wasted by doing some chores and just talking. Well, it wasn't a complete waste, but Axel was feeling pent up again…

“She's doing exceptionally well!” Mr. Lanyon continued to beam but paused this time to make sure Axel got the message he was quite happy with his life, “We're expecting our first in just a few months! We'd been trying so hard, such a saint!”

“Your first? A baby?” Axel repeated. He wasn't sure why he was surprised. Mr. Lanyon had been married happily for three years when Axel had taken his class. However, whenever the man opened his mouth Axel just assumed he was a closet queer that wasn't very good at keeping everything in the closet.

“No a dog- Of course a baby! She's absolutely radiant, my darling- Where are my rubrics?!” Mr. Lanyon suddenly exclaimed in exasperation as he closed the second drawer of his desk. Then he looked under a pile of papers, “Ah! Here they are! Anyhow, I'm quite sure this isn't a social call. What is the issue going `round?” Asked Lanyon as he began to pack his briefcase. He must be in a hurry to get somewhere, probably home to his `radiant' wife.

Axel glanced at Demyx, but once more Demyx was off staring at the window or something outside it, “Uh… Demyx's uncle is interested in how he's doing at school.” Axel mentioned, wondering if the teachers gossiped about their students if they weren't doing well. What a terrible thing that would have been.

Mr. Lanyon raised his brows in surprise, “Demyx? Oh, he's a lamb!” Mr. Lanyon said as though Demyx weren't sitting five feet from him, “Such a good boy, terribly smart- Oh so much like you! He could read a bit more, but isn't that always the case? Boys these days, so caught up in their video games and television- But Demyx is a sweetheart.” He waved his hand reassuringly, though he looked frantic but that was his normal eccentric state, “Very good with words you know! Not as blunt as you though, you always had a knack for putting things into perspective!”

“Yes…” Axel grew a bit uncomfortable. His mouth had gotten him into trouble on occasion. It wasn't often Axel participated in class but when he did, he certainly wasn't smiled upon for his liberal attitude, “So no problems? He's been attending and participating all right?” Asked Axel, trying to gear the conversation in a way that would be more useful. After all, he was here on Rufus's request.

“Hm?” Mr. Lanyon perked from his tidying as if surprised, “Oh, you know teenagers! Certainly he's missed a day or two, but what child doesn't skip every now and then? It's good for them; a little rebellion never hurt anyone!” Though, really it did, but Mr. Lanyon certainly didn't seem concerned about it, “Anyway, he's been an absolute dear, nothing to worry about! He's not much for logical essays, but his writing isn't as poor as some! Oh, you should see these essays that come in, I do wonder how some of these children made it past the fourth grade~!” He sighed and raised his hands as if he just didn't know what to do with himself. Getting up, he picked up his briefcase and made his way around the desk. Placing a hand on Demyx's shoulder, Mr. Lanyon offered a smile and the tempo of his words slowed down considerably, “I'll see you for class, please try to get some sleep.” He said gently before smiling brightly at Axel his speech picking up pace again in seconds, “I'm so sorry I can't stay to chat, but Lisa gets terribly anxious while I'm away, bless her heart! If you need anything, please stop by anytime!” Then he was out the door in a whirl of papers. So much for that meeting…

“He is a character, isn't he?” Axel mentioned, still sitting in his chair. Then he looked at Demyx who finally seemed to be back from daydreaming, “Roxas says you like him, but I guess he'd hard not to like.” He smiled some, hoping Demyx's mood would improve but doubtful that it would. When he thought of other ways he could cheer him up, his one track mind went straight to the gutter. Face growing hot, he couldn't shake the idea of the two of them strewn over Mr. Lanyon's desk. That was weird- Normally `dangerous' and `public' weren't on his list of turn-ons. He must have been getting desperate.

Demyx didn't seem to notice Axel's sudden shift in mood and shrugged, “He's nice.” He mentioned off-handedly. He didn't say much else, but what was Axel expecting? An in-depth story on how Mr. Lanyon just loved to talk poetry? “Who do we have to see next?”

“Hm,” Axel hummed as he glanced at the paper trying to ignore lingering thoughts of foreplay in the classroom, “Cid Highwind, your driver's ed instructor.” By the obvious groan in Demyx's voice and the comment on the paper, this meeting would be less pleasant. Now he kind of missed Mr. Lanyon… “Not good, huh?” Axel inquired with a sheepish smile, trying to keep things from being too serious.

“Try not at all…” Demyx murmured unhappily, “I stopped going after he showed that train wreck of a video.” He said as he got up, he was rubbing his eyes a little. Axel tried to think back to what Demyx was talking about but couldn't quite pinpoint a specific memory from his own time in D.E.

“Well, let's get this over with then.” Axel murmured glumly. No doubt Rufus would call to ensure Axel spoke with everyone. Otherwise, he would call it quits, go home and spend some quality time with his wonderful boyfriend.

As they left the room, Axel's cell rang and he answered, “Hey, little bro… I'm, uh, not going to be coming home tonight. Rufus needs me to work overtime.” Probably his punishment for not keeping a close eye on Demyx. However, the news lifted Axel's spirits. Finally, no one would be around to interrupt him. He found himself grinning stupidly.

“Okay, I'll see you tomorrow.” Axel said, hoping Reno couldn't hear the smile in his voice. It really wasn't like him to enjoy Reno's absence and it would be suspicious.

“Actually, I'll be staying with Rude for a while… I should be home Thursday night.” This just kept getting better and better, Axel's mind went back to his early thoughts. If he kept this up, there'd be no hiding his lust.

“What's with the goofy smile?” Asked Demyx, who was obviously not amused with how the day was going and, surprisingly, still hadn't noticed the tell tale signs of arousal on Axel's part

Forcing a frown, he shook his head, “Nothing,” He said to Demyx before saying goodbye to his brother and hanging up. Monday night (today), Tuesday night, and Wednesday night with no one to bother them, what a stroke of luck! “Just my brother with a bit of news.” Said Axel casually, the good news could wait until this particular nightmare was over.

It felt weird for Axel to be in the halls again. Even empty, he could almost relive those stressful days of pushing through crowds and ducking around corners. They hadn't changed much, that was for sure. There were still the same old cracks in the tiles and stains on the wall; did they ever attempt to clean the place up? It wasn't a bad school but he remembered it being, well, less ghetto, not that it was particularly so now.

Soon they found themselves in the next classroom. It had a bit more of an industrial feel to it. Mr. Lanyon's room was decorated with author pictures, quotes, and books. In contrast, this was furnished with pictures of cars, mechanical parts, and tips on vehicle maintenance. A gruff, dingy looking guy, who looked like he would be more at home in a mechanic shop, sat at a desk. He looked to be scribbling up something on some blueprints, maybe he was designing something. If he was a mechanic by hobby, he could have been working on some plans for a car modification…

Knocking on the doorframe, Axel slowly entered with Demyx in toe. Axel could smell the tobacco on the guy as he approached, not only a mechanic but a smoker too. Wow, their new driver's ed teacher was a real winner.

“Hello, Mr. Highwind? I'm here to speak with you about Demyx.” Axel said when Mr. Highwind didn't speak up.

Looking up, the man waved a callused hand, “Call me Cid.” He said as he got up and moved around his mess of a desk. Axel wasn't sure of his age, he didn't look the type to age gracefully so he probably looked older than he was. His blonde hair was short and he didn't look like he'd bothered to shave, or shower, that morning, “Shit, you ain't related are ya?” Axel shook his head, “Figures, probably the son of some corporate junky and he doesn't even bother.” He looked at Demyx, “I remember you,” Demyx purposefully looked away, “What'd ya want to know?”

“Well, his uncle is concerned about his attendance…” Though Axel now knew Demyx hadn't showed for some time.

“Doesn't seem that concerned if you ask me, sending some lacky to do his dirty work.” Mentioned Cid, obviously not impressed with Rufus's parenting skills, “The dimwit hasn't shown since Red Asphalt.” Dimwit? Was this guy really a teacher? Wasn't there a policy on not harassing students or at least name calling?

Axel raised a brow as Cid took a seat on his desk. Things didn't feel any less tense in the room, “Red Asphalt?”

“Fuck, the video we show all the kids before they drive. Nasty shit.” Cid shook his head scratching his jaw, “Sure you saw it, been updated but still the same fucking thing. Families gettin' killed, interviews with kids involved with accidents. Bloody mess.” Axel glanced Demyx's way and the boy looked pale. Uncomfortably, he placed a hand on Demyx's shoulder and squeezed. Beneath his palm, he could feel Demyx trembling. From the indirect glare on his face it might have been more from anger than sorrow, “Didn't get far when this little brat jumps up and storms out of the room. Couldn't understand a damn thing he said as he turned tail.” This guy swore… A lot, “Disrupted the entire class.” And his swearing didn't?

Clearing his throat, Axel turned to Demyx, “Maybe I should talk with him alone…” Axel suggested. Muttering a curse under his breath, Demyx shrugged off Axel's hand and moved away. Then he left.

“Hell's his problem?” Inquired Cid, watching Demyx leave.

“His problem is his mother just fucking died you inconsiderate asshole.” Axel said coldly, venom seeping into his voice, “I'm sure rubbing dead bodies in his face isn't conducive to the healing process. What the hell is your problem?” At this, Cid's expression changed from hard to suddenly very soft and apologetic.

“Hell, I didn't know.” He murmured still watching the door, “We have the kids watch that shit to scare `em a little. These numbskulls think drivin's so easy, they don't get how dangerous it is if you don't know your stuff… It's only shown the one time….” Cid shifted and folded his arms, “Tell ya what. Have him start coming to class and I'll get him set straight. No reason to fail the kid `cause I scared him off. Really, I didn't mean to upset the little guy, I didn't hear any of this from the administration.” He sounded and looked sincere and Axel's anger curbed.

“Thank you.” Axel's tone was softer this time and he looked the guy up and down a moment. Guess he wasn't all that bad, “I'll let him know that you didn't mean any harm.” Axel told him and Cid thanked him as they parted was.

Axel struggled to find Demyx once he was out. He searched the halls for a bit before he ventured back towards Cid's room. Spotting a bathroom nearby, he walked inside and easily spotted Demyx at the sinks. He was splashing some water on his face, “You okay?” Asked Axel as he approached, carefully watching his own reflection in the mirror. Once again, his mind briefly left reality and he thought of watching their reflection in the mirror as they got rough against the stall doors. Bathrooms too? They were so unsanitary! And yet…

Demyx shrugged, “Just a little spooked I guess.”

“Well, the guy says he'll help you get caught up, so you can get a passing grade…. But you'll have to go.” Axel told him, standing just behind him and watching Demyx's face in the reflection.

Shaking his head, “I don't know why I would want to do that.” Demyx said outright and the tone of his voice grew darker with each word, “I don't plan on getting behind the wheel of anything in my lifetime. It's a waste of time, mine and his.” Pushing away from the sink he pulled a paper towel out and wiped his face. His eyes were slightly red and Axel recognized the gravelly texture of Demyx's voice.

Choosing not to comment on the fact that Demyx was hiding his tears, Axel stood by and asked, “Why not? It's hard to get by if you can't drive. Public transportation can only get you so far.” Demyx cast a strange look over his shoulder as if to say `I'll show you how far it can take me'.

“Because it's too soon.” Axel didn't understand.

“But, you're old enough… I don't-“

Demyx cut him off before he had a chance to finish, “You're such an idiot!” He snapped irritably and Axel glared.

“I'm not an idiot, you just won't explain!” Axel argued as he quickly crossed the bathroom and cut Demyx off from leaving. Backing him into a corner, Axel placed his hands on the cold tile wall. With a stern look, he stared down at him, “Tell me what's going on with you. Why haven't you been going to class? Why don't you want to drive?”

Demyx looked away but didn't try to escape, “I'm just not cut out for it. I'm not smart Axel. I'm dumb as a box of bricks.” And just like that the anger in both of them was gone. Axel sighed and stepped closer.

Letting his hands fall from the wall to around Demyx's shoulders he shook his head, “You don't have to be smart to pass. Anyway, I'll help you, okay? It's not like you really will need to remember half the crap they shove down your throat anyway.” Then Axel waited, but Demyx didn't speak, “What's the real reason you're not going to class?”

“How do you know that isn't the real reason?” Asked Demyx in a matter of fact kind of tone.

Axel grinned. Lifting Demyx's chin, he leaned down and kissed him, “Because I know you.”

“Only a little.” Demyx pointed out, but he didn't sound like he was angry about it.

“Then tell me more.”

Demyx sighed and placed his hands on Axel's arms. Turning his head, he kissed the crook of Axel's arm, “My dad died in a car accident,” He began and Axel's heart skipped a beat. Red Asphalt… “It wasn't anyone's fault really. The road conditions were bad and visibility was low. The other driver's car spun out and they collided head on.” Demyx told him in a surprisingly calm manner. His eyes, which stared at Axel's shirt, held no sorrow or fear. Not the depth of emotion he'd had when describing his mother, “They said he died instantly.”

When Demyx didn't continue, Axel wrapped his arms around Demyx more. Holding him and rocking him gently, “Where were you when it happened?”

“Home… He was coming home from work. When they called, it was my mom who answered the phone. I was in the other room and I heard this terrible noise. You've never heard anything like it Axel. She let out this shriek and began to wail as she collapsed on the floor. I knew instantly. I don't know how but I just knew something had happened to him. I took the phone from her and held her. I didn't even have to ask.” Demyx shook his head and took a deep breath. It was so strange how he didn't sound sad or upset.

“Are you okay?” Asked Axel, unsure if the lack of emotion was something he should be worried about. It seemed like it should be.

“Yeah. It wasn't that bad. I mean… That sounds awful. You probably don't know, but every kid has there favorite. I loved my dad, but my mom… She was the world to me. I'm not sure if that was what made it easier or not. If it had been mom, I don't know if I'd have taken it so well, but it wasn't her. She was so weak and sad after he died. I felt like I needed to be strong for her. I didn't have time to be sad about it. I had to go to work. I had to make sure she was eating all right… I think that was the worst thing about it all. Not that he was gone, but that mom was so sad.” Demyx sighed and leaned forward, “That's why I ran out of class that day… The interviews with the families, all I could hear was that shrieking wail my mom made when she heard. It's a haunting noise Axel. I'll never forget it.”

“I'm sorry.” Murmured Axel.

Demyx pushed away and shook his head. Smiling he disregarded the apology, “Don't be. It really wasn't that bad…. Anyway, that's the reason I don't want to drive. I don't want to hurt anybody like that.”

There was no arguing that point. Demyx obviously felt strongly about this, “All right. Can you at least attend class for the time being? We can talk to Rufus about your classes when he gets back and possibly get him to agree to drop the matter.” Axel suggested. Boyfriend and unofficial guardian, it was a tough spot to be in.

Offering a smile of resignation, Demyx nodded, “Fine.”

“Thank you.” Axel was relieved. He gave Demyx another quick kiss and then took the paper from his back pocket where he'd placed it after chattering with Cid, “Aerith Gainsborough is next.”

“Good, she likes me.” Demyx mentioned with a smile as he pushed through the bathroom door and headed down the stairs to the first floor. Axel followed him quickly.

Aerith was in the gymnasium off behind the curtains putting away some props that had been used earlier in the day. She looked nice enough. Long brown hair pulled back in a braid, vibrant cerulean eyes, and a beautiful face that was lit up with a smile. When she saw them, she stopped what she was doing and waved them over. She was wearing a pink dress that split up the leg a ways.

“Hello, you must be Demyx's guardian.” She greeted, taking Axel's hand in a gentle shake, “I'm Aerith.” She said, leaving out her last name.

“I'm Axel.” He responded politely as Demyx went over to what Aerith had been tending to and started to clean up, “But, I'm afraid you're mistaken. I'm not Demyx's legal guardian. His uncle sent me on his behalf. I'm a friend of the family.” Maybe…

“A friend? I see.” She looked back at Demyx, “Silly, you don't have to do that.” She called but Demyx waved a hand telling her silently that he was going to do it anyway. So she let him be, “He's really a very kind boy. Why don't we have a seat?” She suggested as she left the stage and sat down on the theater steps. Axel sat down in one of the gymnasium chairs, “I know what you've come to talk with me about.” She mentioned, glancing Demyx's way again, “He's going through a lot isn't he?”

“Yes.” Axel responded shortly.

“He works very hard keep up to keep up in class.” Aerith told him, “But some days he just isn't himself. I try to cheer him up, but he's very stubborn.” She chuckled a little at this, “Our class is based mostly on attendance and participation. He could do better in both, but these are special circumstances. I'm not concerned about him failing. I think dancing makes him happier…”

Axel watched Demyx and nodded, “Does he get along with the other students?'

Aerith looked back at Axel and hesitated, “I suppose with some of them. He really does get along well with the girls, but sometimes he struggles fitting in with the other boys. Its not as bad here, these kids love to dance. But outside this group a lot of my boys struggle to get along with the other boys in the school. It's not easy for them, especially if they're genuinely interested in dance and not the girls.” Axel frowned, “You really care for him…” And Axel frowned deeper, “Don't worry, I don't think any of the kids know yet.”

“Know what yet?”

Standing up, Aerith shook her head gracefully, “That he's in love with someone else. Namine isn't a very good liar.” Making her way up the stairs, she patted Demyx on the back, “I think that's good for the day, I'll see you in class.” She told him and Demyx left to rejoin Axel who wasn't very comforted by Aerith's easy observations.

“So, what'd she say?” Asked Demyx.

“She says she likes you.” Axel responded, choosing not to worry Demyx over everything else she said.

“Told you.” Demyx nodded confidently as they left Aerith alone. Axel was actually really grateful to be away from her. It was scary how well she read people; it was like Namine's weird extrasensory notebook. Axel was beginning to think they bred psychic women around these parts. Hopefully the rest of the female student body wasn't as perceptive.

Both their moods dropped when they entered the room of the next professor. The stark white room was chilly and every sound made in it echoed hollowly off the walls. Behind the front lab bench was an older man, not young but not elderly, with long blonde hair. His face was narrow with sharp features and he quite possibly had the coldest green eyes that could pierce through your very soul. Axel knew him and he hated him.

Also in the room was the steel haired boy from the festival. His sharp blue eyes spotted them in an instant from behind his jagged locks. Glancing from the doorway to his professor, he remained silent and continued to pour chemicals. He was wearing a black labcoat and gloves, indicating that what he was working with was at least somewhat caustic.

Axel didn't remember the boy's name, but he sure as hell remembered the professor: Vexen.

This time, Axel didn't bother to knock as they entered and immediately Demyx darted across the room. Obviously avoiding eye contact, he shuffled to the back of the room where the other boy was. From there, he peered at Vexen from the corner of his eye. Axel couldn't blame him, Vexen was probably the worst teacher Axel remembered. He certainly didn't try to be likable.

Slowly, Vexen raised his gaze from the papers he was grading. When he spotted Axel, his normal frown deepened to one of displeasure, “Axel… If you're in charge of the brat, I can't say that I'm surprised he's a screw-up. No respect for authority whatsoever and certainly no respect for his elders.” Vexen gathered the papers and pushed them aside. Lacing his fingers, he did not rise and continued to stare like snake ready to bite.

“He's not a screw-up and don't call your own students brats.” Axel seethed through his teeth. Cid got a little leeway, Vexen would get none, “I'm here to see if there's anything that can be done to improve Demyx's grades.”

Vexen's thin lips pulled into a crooked smile, “Improve? That boy?” Vexen stood and shook his head, “There's no helping a lost cause. Best to focus on the bright and…” He paused and cast a meaningful look the steel-haired boy's way, or maybe it was to drive the point home to Demyx who tried hiding behind him, “Obedient.” Then he turned to wipe his wicked writing off the board.

“He's not a lost cause, Vexen.”

“You will continue to address me as Professor, that is all.” Vexen insisted before thinking otherwise, “Unless you would prefer superior.”

“Professor, then.” Axel almost had to spit it out to get the word to leave his lips, “I'm sure we can come to some agreement. Assignments, projects, papers… Something that will let him graduate.” Said Axel as he folded his arms. He did not sit down.

“Oh? And why should I do that?” Vexen inquired, “All of the other students regularly attend class. They receive ample opportunity to prove themselves. Why should I make an exception for some twerp who doesn't bother to listen half the time? Perhaps you should consider institutionalization, I'm sure they're better equipped to deal with that kind of child.”

“And what kind of `child' is that?” Axel snarled, he could feel the hair on the back of his neck bristle and his skin grow hot.

“Hmph!” Vexen put down the eraser and turned, “Well… Why don't we just call him `special'?” Axel frowned deeply at him and remained silent. Waving a hand, Vexen walked around the table, “He's a troubled child. He needs discipline and he needs medication. I've seen boys like this before. Unbalanced… They're a menace unless properly dealt with.” Vexen told him as he moved to the back of the room where the other student was- Wait no, he wasn't a student. Axel remembered that much, he was a teacher's aid. Now who would want to be pet to this kind of creature? Axel kind of wished Demyx would have chosen to hide behind him instead that boy.

“You talk about him as if he's an animal.” Axel said following in the event he need to step between Vexen and Demyx.

Vexen waved dismissively again, “Of course. Children his age aren't capable of making rational decisions. Logic is the tool of age, something the young are incapable of using. That is why there is school. To guide these lost souls until they're old enough to make their own choices.” Turning his attention away, he glanced at the chemistry going on, “Zexion, be careful not to add too much phosphorus, I don't want any explosions.” He advised the steel haired boy. Zexion nodded, it was obvious he was listening to every word Vexen said. Little drone… How did Demyx know this kid and why would he want to again?

“I won't argue with you because it's pointless-“

“So you do learn!” Vexen exclaimed with mock surprise.

“Just tell me what I have to do to sweep this problem under the metaphorical rug.” Axel demanded, not sure why he thought this `push' strategy would work.

Vexen glared at him, “And what if I refuse to give this brat an excuse to slip by?”

“Tell me.”

“Hm, why don't you beg me for it?”

Axel's mind stumbled a moment, “What?”

With a graceful and cruel smile, Vexen approached him. He stopped just inches in front of him and stared at him with knives in his eyes, “On your knees before me. Tell me that I've always been right and then beg me for it.” He said coolly and he looked serious, gaze never faltering, expression firm.

It took all of Axel's strength not to slap that expression right off of his face, “You arrogant asshole.” And Vexen backed down. Returning to his spot at the front of the room, he looked down at his papers as though saying `this conversation is over'.

Axel looked over at Demyx, but he wouldn't meet his gaze. Instead, he looked out the far window, probably painting lyrics in the sky. Then Axel's eyes went back to Zexion, who was now bottling whatever concoction it was that he was working with. Once done, he followed Vexen's path to the front of the room. Briefly, he met Axel's gaze along the way, but did not hold it long. Instead, he directed Vexen's gaze, “Vexen, it's ready.” He said and placed it on the papers in front of the professor. A first name basis? Wow.

“Thank you Zexion. You may go.” Vexen directed as he took the vial and placed it in a drawer. However, Zexion did not move and Vexen raised his eyes once again, “I said you may go.”

“I heard you.” Zexion looked down at him with nothing on his face.

Vexen frowned and then looked at Axel, “And why haven't you gone, either? I have work to attend to.” Then Zexion reached down and pulled the papers away from Vexen.

“I can take care of this.” Zexion told him and continued to stare.

Axel wasn't sure what he was witnessing. It was like a bizarre showdown of top predators, neither one yielding but also neither going in for the kill. Axel heard Demyx shift and Axel noticed that Demyx was now standing beside him, watching with interest. Vexen's shoulders slumped and his icy stare at last waned, “You are deplorable, Zexion.” He said as he stood and looked to Axel, “All right, what is it you would have me do, fool?” What had just happened?

“I, uh…”

“Spit it out!” Vexen snapped and Axel straightened.

“If you'd give an extension for any assignments he's missed… And, as for participation, perhaps he could prepare a project,” Axel glanced at Zexion, “Or perhaps help around the lab.” Zexion did not look at him as he sat down at the bench beside Vexen and began to silently grade the papers.

“Fine. I will prepare a workbook. If he doesn't complete it by the assigned date, he fails. If he does, then I'll give him whatever grade I think he deserves.” Vexen said as he gathered his things, “I expect him to come to class on a regular basis from now on. Cross me again and I will not be so lenient.” Then he left the room.

Axel looked to Demyx in disbelief, “What was that?”

“Play the game right and the pieces will fall into place.” Mentioned Zexion from his chair, “Don't let me down, Demyx. And, if you do, do me a favor and don't come back.”

Demyx smiled at Zexion, “Thanks… You're a good friend.”

Zexion lifted his eyes, “We'll see.”

“I wish you'd have told me before things got out of hand.” Axel said in the car on the way back, “I know… I'm not your father and I don't want to be, but I care for you. If you were having problems… If you are having problems…” Axel wasn't sure where he was going with this and so he sighed without finishing.

Demyx looked at him guiltily, “I know… I'm sorry. I just… I didn't want you to be disappointed in me.” Axel chuckled and reached over to stroke Demyx's head. Why was he so worried about that? How could Axel be disappointed in him? Demyx was amazing. Maybe not in the ways that Axel was or the ways other people wanted him to be, but why should he be? Demyx was fine just the way he was.

Still, now Axel worried, “So, it was mentioned you don't pay attention… Do you have a hard time focusing?” He asked, maybe Vexen made him paranoid, but Demyx had mentioned ADD. If it was bad, maybe he really did need some medication. It could help.

Demyx must have seen where he was going a mile away because he groaned and rolled his eyes, “There's nothing wrong with me.”

Axel let it be, “Right, sorry…” And he dropped it. Probably because he was ridiculously excited to get home, “So… Reno called.” Demyx gave him a look that said `yeah I was there' and he continued, “He called to say he'd be late.” This caught his attention. All ears now, he watched and waited for what he had to say, “Several days late actually. He won't be back until Thursday night. We've got the house all to ourselves.”

Like a Cheshire cat, a grin spread across Demyx's lips, “Finally, some good news!” Turning on the radio, he fiddled with the stations for a moment before he found something he liked. Then he cranked up the volume, the bass heavy techno beat thumping in Axel's chest. When Axel glanced over, Demyx's grin seemed to grow even wilder, “Try to stay focused on the road, `kay?”

“Wha- Ah!” So much for Demyx being scared of car accidents! Leaning over from his seat, belt still on, his hand found its way to Axel's thigh. Once there it made its way up his leg to undo his pants. Within seconds, Demyx hand had made its home under Axel's jeans and boxers, and it felt oh-so good. Axel could barely hear the song.

We don't have to fall in love, in love, in love!
We don't have to feel to touch, to touch, to touch!
We can do it for the rush, the rush, the rush!
I'm waiting for you!

Bodies crash with no reaction,
She bites my tongue, so I don't say too much.
She was made for lust!
Anymore than that would be so dangerous!

She got a bitter bite but I'm a sweet talker!
Diamonds in her eyes and I'm a shine for her!

Shit! Concentrating on the road is hard when someone's got their hands down your pants. Especially when you've just been spending half the day mulling over the idea of throwing that person down and getting hot and heavy in every place and way imaginable!

They needed to be home NOW!

We don't have to fall in love, in love, in love!
We don't have to feel to touch, to touch, to touch!
We can do it for the rush, the rush, the rush!
I'm waiting for you!

Got sick of trying to find Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts characters so I threw in a random guy I made. Erik Lanyon, such a doll… I like him, I like him a lot.

Damn, I hope I didn't use Cid already…

Another early update, actually most of this was done with the other two chapters but I had to make some final adjustments. Not sure when the next update will be. Possibly two weeks, maybe less. I dunno how busy I'll be.