Author's Note

I just want to send out a big thanks to all of you who have been reading this story, and especially to all of you who left me reviews. This story has been so well received, much more so than I predicted. I'm really glad you are all enjoying it, but all things must come to an end, and unfortunately so must this story. This is the last chapter, but by popular demand, it will be a longer chapter than the rest. Sorry if you wanted it to keep going, but I'd rather have people say "why are you stopping?" than "hey…why don't you stop?" You know? Anyways, read, review, leave me some lovin, and most of all, enjoy!

Chapter 3

It was such an oppressive day, both to the body and to the spirit. Heavy gray and black clouds filled the sky, creating a patchwork net that prevented any rays of light from reaching the ground. Though mid-morning, it was almost as dark as if it were night. Rain fell in large droplets, and in quick succession, pounding the ground and foliage in a constant torrent. The ground was extremely wet, puddles of murky water appearing in patches even in grass. The sound of the falling rain gave the false notion that a steady stream rushed by. Fall was funny that way- you never knew what to expect. Some days it would be warm and bright all day, sometimes it would be frigid in the morning, but almost like summer by afternoon. Then there were days like today, so unfitting for a Friday. The heavy rains brought with them a cold wind that made the falling water that much more abhorrent. The ground however was still quite warm from the passing season, and despite the cool temperature of the air and rain, water was still evaporating, causing a thick layer of fog to hang over the small beach-side town, like some kind of ominous omen that projected neither good nor bad fortune.

It was especially quiet, save for the rain of course. The streets were devoid of people, except for the occasional car passing by slowly, careful to mind the slippery conditions. Their headlights did little to light the way, the beams reflecting off of the moisture in the air, serving to blind the driver rather than make navigation any easier. Even the birds, who were usually so busy in the morning were nowhere to be seen, hiding from the downpour in whatever makeshift shelter they could manage .Everyone had already trudged through the obstacles of the weather to get to work, and the younger demographic had run to school under thin umbrellas, including Mayu. On days like today, Kaida house seemed almost abandoned. Its beautiful hardwood floored halls and traditional architecture seemed more uncertain than rustic on days like this. It didn't help that Nana slept in until noon, or sometimes later. Nyuu was still sleeping too, although she doesn't talk much in the first place. As for Kohta…well…

Yuka let out a loud sigh, forcing herself to look away from the kitchen window. She was exhausted, having gotten little sleep last night; thinking of course, as per usual. Surprisingly, she came to a few conclusions through her meditation, which was quite a change from her usual routine of brooding about whatever was bothering her for hours, only to end up even more frustrated than before. She would always cry in frustration, perhaps punch a pillow or two, and sit alone, simply thinking. Running all the recent scenarios and conversations that had transpired to lead up to her present state, no matter what was bothering her. It was a set protocol she had developed subconsciously, a coping strategy that the psyche would concoct over the years, as many often did. Hers wasn't exactly original, or effective most of the time, but it did relieve stress somehow.

Yuka returned her attention to the sink full of now luke-warm soapy water she had her hands immersed in, and began cleaning the dishes leftover from the breakfast for two she had made earlier that morning. She usually made something for Mayu before she would run off to school. She would have done so anyway, but to give Mayu a sense of normalcy made her feel that much more motivated. She couldn't imagine her real parents ever doing anything of the sort for their daughter, although she tried her hardest not to think of that most of the time. It would enrage her so much she would feel it was almost her duty to go give them a piece of her mind, or maybe a hard slap to the face, but that wouldn't be very responsible or lady-like, so she restrained herself. She continued wiping off the various plates and glasses with the washrag and rinsing them off before placing them in the adjacent sink to dry, almost autonomously. A small smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. Mayu had really become like a sister to her, even though Mayu had told her herself that she viewed Yuka as more of a mother than anything. But the thought of her being the mother, and Kohta the father of Kaida house….it wasn't exactly realistic….

"So…did you talk to him?"

Mayu had asked her, sheepishly, with her right index touching her chin in an innocent gesture. Of course Mayu had known about Yuka's feelings towards Kohta. In fact, she was the first to notice. Since then, they had often talked about the situation, much to Yuka's relief. Having someone to talk to about such intimate and confusing feelings was a Godsend, and Mayu was such a great listener. She was so simplistic about the way she looked at things, but that was a very good thing when it comes to the already overly-complicated topic of her feelings. She had a unique way of breaking things down and, ironically enough, being more rational than most adults when it came to these things. It was Mayu who had given Yuka the nerve to ask Kohta out to the coffee shop in the first place, though it hadn't turned out as well as she had hoped. She felt slightly guilty for slapping him again, and leaving him there. What the onlookers must have thought…

That didn't bother her too much, however. Maybe she had been immature, and maybe she had been overreacting, but she was upset! That warrants something right? She didn't even have to speak to him that day. All her questions, her fears, they had been answered before he uttered a single word. The way he looked at her…sure it held love, but not the kind she wanted. It was love for a cousin, and a friend that he held for her, not the warm compassion of a lover. When she asked him about that day at the shrine, his eyes became distant. He was thinking of someone else…and she knew exactly who.

She didn't want to accept it. She had convinced herself it was just pity, it wasn't love, he could return her feelings…right? This was just some turbulence they were coming upon…it was just like a romance novel. The young couple gets separated by another woman, but eventually the young man realizes that he really loves the heroine of the story, and comes back to her….it was what she hoped for with all her heart…but that isn't life. Things don't always happen the way you want them to…she had finally realized that….but that didn't mean it didn't hurt.

When she had explained what had happened over the simple breakfast of toast, cereal, and fruit, Mayu had listened intently while nibbling on her morning nourishment. She had frowned heavily, her youthful chocolate colored eyes filling with sympathy for her 'mother'.

"…I'm so sorry Yuka…" she had conveyed with heavy compassion. Yuka had only smiled slightly and shook her head, much to her surprise.

"…it's ok Mayu, thanks for listening. Actually…I kinda knew in a way."

Her smile faded momentarily, as she seemed to be struggling to find her words…or maybe it was more than that? Mayu was the only other person who had even an inkling of how much she loved Khota. It should have been a fairytale romance for Yuka. She deserved it, after all…

"But…I've decided Mayu. Since I've kinda known about it for a while, it was easier for me to come to a conclusion…. I'm not moving out, so don't worry."

Yuka had looked almost at the edge of tears by this point, making Mayu want to cry for her, since she seemed to be refusing to. She hated seeing Yuka like this…she was so strong most of the time. Of course she knew more than anyone that nobody was invincible, we're all human. We all feel pain, we all are uncertain, frightened, scared at times….but Yuka, and Khota for that matter always hid whatever was bothering them. Maybe that was just something you do when you get older? It was for her sake that they acted as if things were fine, and she knew that…but…she just wanted them to be happy. They shouldn't have to hide anything…there shouldn't be anything to hide.

She was relieved to hear her say that she wasn't moving out, however. She had begun to worry about what might happen to her newfound family with such tension hanging in the air, but Yuka had quickly put those fears to rest. She really was so caring towards her…that's probably the reason she felt so comfortable around her. Yuka had a way of reassuring her before she could even begin to worry. She must have known her so well…sometimes she really did forget they weren't related.

Yuka sniffed and took a sip of coffee, closing her eyes as she brought the cup to her lips. She sighed lightly, placing it back down gently on the tabletop. Mayu had wanted to say something else, but was rushed out the door after that sentence, Yuka warning her she was going to be late for first period if she stayed any longer. She knew it best not to argue with her, and had grabbed her things before rushing out into the rain, yelling a quick 'goodbye Wanta' to the dark doghouse, hearing a single muffled bark as she rushed outside the gate and down the street.

Yuka's grin now turned into a full blown, genuine smile as the events of this morning played through her mind again. Mayu was becoming more and more like the little sister she never had. She finished the last of the dishes, pulling the stopper out from the bottom of the sink, the water making a loud gurgling sound as it rushed down the drain. She dried her hands off on a nearby hand towel that had been sloppily discarded on the countertop, and noted the time. 10:15.

Kohta had class at 11. Needless to say, he needed to get up. She sighed heavily, asking herself once again why she had to practically drag him out of bed every morning to make sure he got to class on time. She would often wonder how in the hell he would ever survive living alone. Would he still be this lazy, or does he just expect her to do everything? Even though she felt slightly better about their situation, she really didn't feel like doing him favors right now, but that would be immature. She had to show that he wasn't bothering her, right? She let out a long sigh.

'I swear, if he EVER did something on his own I'd think he was sick or something!'

As she made her way down the oaken hallway, she became aware of the damp hand towel still in her grasp. It was just damp enough, that if wrapped around itself and snapped, could cause quite a bit of pain; the perfect tool to wake him up, not to mention take out some aggression. Sure it was a little mean, even evil, but it was justified, she decided. Besides, the look of shock on his face would be well worth it.

As she came upon his door, she decided maybe it would be only fair to give him a warning before delivering a locker room style towel snap to the poor sleeping victim. She wasn't that mean, after all.

"Oh Kooohtaa! You better be awake!" she yelled towards the room, knocking heavily on the door. Hearing no response other than slight stirring of sheets, she grasped the handle and slid open the door, ready to cross the room swiftly and deliver the snap. As the door opened, light from the hall flooded the room, and uncovered something she hadn't expected.

Kohta was stirring in a dazed state, in the process of sitting up by placing his weight on his forearms behind him. That of course wasn't what shocked her. What had stopped her cold was the figure draped lazily over him under the sheets… the crimson hair that spilled over his stomach, the pale arm that was wrapped possessively around his waist…

Kohta's sleepy eyes met Yuka's, and at this moment, his glazed over orbs became widened, alert, while hers exchanged their deviant, mischievous look for one that was so filled with anguish one could only describe it as such. There was a long, awkward silence, as she stared into the dark room, the light from the hall casting her shadow deep into the room, almost touching his bedding. She clutched the towel in her hand firmly as it hung lazily, just above the surface of the floor. Kohta knew what Yuka was assuming, of course, anyone would assume the same. But trying to explain to her it wasn't what she thought would be pointless. How could he? He would be lying if the thought hadn't crossed his mind at some point last night, but…he felt so awful, looking at her painful eyes, now welling up with moisture. To realize the concept was one thing…but to actually see it….that was quite a different story.

He wanted to say something, anything.

In the end…there was nothing he could say.

"….you're going to be late….if you don't leave soon." She said in a low, monotone voice before sliding the wooden door shut quietly. He heard her light footsteps trail away from his door, and fade away almost as abruptly as they had started.

He stared at the closed door for quite some time. The pang of guilt he felt for causing her sadness had now increased 10 fold. Normally…he would expect Yuka to start yelling, having seen what she had; The fact that she was so quiet about it…so calm even….it made it seem that much more real. That wasn't the look of betrayal or shock; that was a look of devastated acceptance, like a child being lectured on what death is after his dog has died, the realization that he will never see his dog, or play with him again hitting him like a heavy weight. What could he do to help? He doubted that he was the first person she wanted to speak with right now. He couldn't stand for others to be angry with him…especially if he caused them pain.

He was shaken from his internal debate when Nyuu shifted, inhaling deeply through her nose and stretching out slightly. She lifted her head from his stomach for a moment, and looked up at him through half closed eyelids, smiling sleepily. He smiled back, placing his left hand on her temple, and tucking a few stray locks of hair behind her ear. She blushed slightly, and laid her head back down on him, nuzzling against him and letting out a sigh, her grasp around his waist tightening. As he watched her, he found it hard to believe she could be so vicious when the circumstances called for it. She was so sweet…so frail…so beautiful. Seeing her like that, he was affirmed beyond any lingering doubts in his mind, that he wanted to be with her, no matter the cost. He still felt awful about Yuka, but he would have to make her understand. She had to understand. This is what he wants. This is his decision.

With that, he stroked Nyuu's back a few times, trying to gently stir her from the slumber she had no doubt fallen back into.

"…Nyuu? Sorry but I have to go to class. I'll be back in time for dinner alright?"

She lifted her head once more, and this time her sleepy eyes conveyed some disappointment, though she responded wordlessly after a moment by releasing her grasp on him. He slipped out from under the covers and walked over to the nearby windows and opened the blinds, causing her to squint and cover her eyes with one hand, groaning slightly at the offensive intensity of the light. He got dressed quickly, and scooped up his backpack, ensuring he had all the materials he needed for today. Nyuu was slowly tearing herself away from her drowsiness, rubbing one eye with the back of her hand. Now becoming more coherent, she found herself blushing immensely. She had barged into his room last night and practically thrown herself on top of him. She really didn't know anything about being intimate, despite having been the one to initiate nearly all of their encounters of that nature. She was completely innocent, having never known any kind of affection her entire life; only indignation, insults, and abuse.

With Kohta…she found she couldn't control herself. She longed for him…for his touch. Whenever she was near him her heart raced. Memories of her childhood, spending time with him…they were the only good memories she had. They were the only things that saved her sanity; locked in that restraining apparatus in that cell…thinking of Kohta was the only thing that kept her going. As she had told him, she fought armies just to have a chance to talk with him. She loved him more than anything…and waking up in his arms had been nothing short of amazing; such a simple thing, having such an effect…it was breathtaking. She felt…safe, secure….whole…happy.

So, she had justified her forwardness. It was settled in her mind, right? Then why the hell was she blushing so much?

Having gathered everything he needed, Kohta crossed the room, slinging his backpack over his shoulders. Nyuu looked down to the sheets that now lay covering half her body, wishing he didn't have to leave.

Uncertainty now began to set in. Was he just going to leave without a word? Was last night just…

Her usual series of paranoid thoughts was cut short and snuffed out when he stopped at the bedside. She looked up to find him already leaning down. He grabbed her right arm, which supported her weight on the futon, lightly, and brushed his lips against hers. He pulled away after a moment, mumbling a 'see you later' before exiting the room, closing the door behind him. Her lips still tingled from his touch, and her chest felt warm. She reached trembling fingers to her soft lips, and felt herself blushing even more profusely, which she kicked herself for mentally.

She shook her head in an attempt to jar the thoughts from her mind, and forced herself out of his bed before heading for her own room to get dressed. As much as she would have liked to, she knew she wasn't going to be able to go back to sleep after that.

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Kohta sat in his swiveling audience chair among the many other ambitious youths that populated the large lecture hall, tapping his pen absent mindedly against the surface of the table. His notebook was turned to a half filled page of notes, several minutes behind the topic currently at hand. The large class of 400 plus students was remarkably quiet save for the echoing voice of the professor. His foot tapped against the carpeted floor nervously, and his eyes rested upon the cream colored walls, rotating his chair slightly to each side. To the ignorant observer, he seemed to be seriously contemplating the lecturer's words. This couldn't be farther from the truth.

His mind raced between feelings of happiness and pangs of guilt and worry. Thoughts of Yuka seemed to be dominating him during this particular time. Although it was pointless to think about now, he somehow felt that if he thought about speaking with her, it would somehow allow it to happen sooner. He began to shift nervously even more, unbeknownst to him. He was growing more and more impatient by the second, and at this point it was very apparent to anyone who happened to look in his general direction. Unfortunately for Kohta, someone did just that, and took notice of his nervous behavior; namely, Professor Ingawa.

Khota froze for a moment, having made eye contact with the suspicious expression on the man's face, and nodded in false understanding, as if he really had been paying attention, and scribbled random words down into his notebook. Although Ingawa was not convinced, he released his induced stranglehold on Khota and resumed the lecture. Khota exhaled heavily but quietly, feeling extremely relieved. Being caught daydreaming twice in one week would have been un-called for.

'Well…maybe if I pay attention I won't have time to think about this…' was the thought that allowed him to concentrate for the remainder of the lecture.

He'd just have to deal with things later.

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With a long stretch and a loud yawn, Nana stumbled out of her room in a sleepy stupor. She stood still for a moment, allowing her eyes to adjust to offensive brightness of the hallway, rubbing them with the backs of her hands before turning right and walking haphazardly. After a few less than graceful steps, she noticed the old grandfather clock, which signified that she had indeed gone the wrong way (for the third day in a row). She grumbled, her lips pursing momentarily before she turned and walked back, her feet hitting the ground with unnecessary force, thudding across the hardwood floor. She reached her destination: the kitchen, still slightly groggy, though her frustration had made her a little more alert than she was. As soon as she entered, she found Yuka looking her way with a look of confusion. She returned her quizzical expression with one of even greater misunderstanding, wondering why she was getting that look. She rubbed the back of her head, partly to provide more stimuli to awaken to, and partly out of nervous habit when she was curious about something. Finally, Yuka decided Nana wasn't going to get this one on her own, even though it should be pretty obvious.

"….um….something wrong?" Yuka asked, raising an eyebrow.

Nana laughed slightly, finally understanding.

"Oh! No- not really! Just need to work on my sense of direction…hey, is there any food around? Breakfast sounds really good!"

"…Nana…" Yuka started, setting her biology text down on the table from where she sat. She inverted her wrist towards herself to get a better vantage point of the face of her watch, noting the time.

"…it's 11:41" She finished with amusement.

Nana 's brow furrowed slightly into her usual defensive expression. "Hey! That's still morning!"

Yuka let out a light sigh, closing her eyes. She obviously wasn't going to get any studying done with Nana around; she always had a way of vacuuming out all the attention in the area for herself. Nana was like a little sister to her in a way as well…but the much younger, short tempered, immature sister who had to get what she wants right NOW, even though it was usually troublesome, even annoying at times since it meant more work for Yuka. Nana was just so damned cute somehow…how could you refuse that face? Even when she was trying to be angry or upset, she was so comical about the way she acted. Yuka was slightly jealous, actually. Being that adorable was a real gift.

Yuka placed a folded piece of paper in her book as a marker and closed it, standing from the table and brushing herself down quickly.

"Fine, I'll make you something if you go get dressed and start cleaning. How's that?" she said with a smile.

Nana didn't look as thrilled as she thought she'd be.

"Wha? I don't wanna clean…I'm huuungry!" she whined, her arms falling limply towards the ground, causing her shoulders to slump down over-dramatically.

Yuka shook her head with a slight smile which she tried to hide. Despite how cute Nana was, now she was being a little bothersome. A loud grumble could be heard, and Nana clutched her stomach with one hand. It seemed she really was hungry, but still…

"By the time you get done, the food will be ready. You don't want to wait around do you?" Yuka persuaded, placing one hand on her hip and shifting her weight onto her right leg.

"Hrm…..I guess not…" Nana replied, having given in to Yuka's logic.

"Ok then, why don't you go change and get started?"

"Huh? What's wrong with how I'm dressed now?" she asked, looking down at her body and twisting her torso in an attempt to look at herself from behind as if there was something she was missing.

She really was so innocent. She was still in her pajamas…or that's what Nana considered it anyways. Really it was just an old white t-shirt of Khota's that didn't fit him well anymore. Even though Nana was a small girl, Khota's shirt wasn't exactly big on her, and left little to the imagination, the bottom of the shirt showing a healthy amount of thigh. Even though prosthetic, it was thigh none the less. Not that there were any men in the house that would get any ideas, but still…she should learn proper etiquette right?

"Well…it's just what people do….besides you'll get dirty." Yuka answered, slyly avoiding the real issue. Knowing Nana, she'd probably just carry on as usual, maybe get side-tracked and run outside. Then an even worse notion hit Yuka. Nana plus a small white t-shirt plus massive amounts of rain….not good….

To Yuka's relief, Nana's drive to be normal had saved her from anymore explanation. She had agreed silently, nodding her head and heading back up the hallway. It was no surprise she was so innocent. She'd been locked up her entire life. The only praise she ever got was a pat on the head from a man she referred to as 'Papa'. She never knew compassion, reassurance, or love for that matter. It must have been so horrible….and Nyuu couldn't have had it much better either.

Hearing her story had really given Yuka a whole new perspective on life. Any of her problems seemed like nothing when put in the context of what Nana had endured. The surprising thing was that it didn't seem to bother her. But when abuse is all you know, you don't know that there is anything more to life. You don't know that you deserve any better.

Yuka had made a promise with herself that she would give Nana the kind of caring she deserved, to give her a chance at being happy; Very similar to Mayu. Now that she thought about it…they seemed to be taking in a lot of troubled girls. It's not like they were aiming for that, it just sort of happened…maybe it was fate?

She had become an older sister, or perhaps even a mother to both Nana and Mayu. Nyuu was a completely different story. Besides being the same age as her and Khota, her personality was much different. She was almost untouchable, even unapproachable to Yuka. She never could figure that out…Nyuu seemed to harbor some hostility to Yuka, even when she was trying to help. Khota was really the only one she got close to. Even though she seemed bitter most of the time, it wasn't hard to see that she was just a woman in great pain. Despite Yuka's jealousy towards her, she didn't want Nyuu to be unhappy…everyone deserves better than that.

It was decided that this tension between them couldn't continue on. She had to find out why there was this heavy cloud of ambiguity and loathing that encompassed them. She had already decided on one thing…but getting Nyuu to agree would take work.

First thing first: she had to make peace with her.

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With an impatient grumble, Nana threw down her dust rag and polish, running down the hall and into the kitchen for what had to have been the fifth time, poking her head in to see of her beloved nourishment was ready. This time, a bowl of oatmeal had been set out on the table alongside a plate of assorted fruits. It wasn't exactly a hard meal to prepare; Yuka had probably just wanted to get food out quickly to avoid hearing Nana complain through stomach growls or otherwise. Yuka shook her head, seeing Nana's large grin as she bounded over to the table, plopping down and devouring the food as if it had been rationed for the last few years. Come to think of it…maybe it was for her…At least she had put on less revealing apparel. She had chosen her favorite outfit, which was quickly fading as Yuka had to wash it constantly since she insisted on wearing it every other day. It was simple, an almost knee length black dress with a white collar, and black casual dress shoes. It did look very cute on her. They also had given her a wide assortment of hair ribbons and head bands, not wanting others to see her horns. Today she had apparently chosen a red one, although it didn't match at all with her outfit.

Yuka was busy near the sinks, having gotten out several different kinds of peppers, noodles, rice, etc. She was in the process of getting out the necessary cookware when out of her peripheral vision she noticed Nyuu walk silently into the kitchen, stopping momentarily to eye Nana curiously. She noticed that Nyuu was dressed a little more elegantly than usual; Long black slacks that hugged her hips and thighs rather graciously, a light pink button down shirt, with a black choker necklace and topped off with a matching black hair band. All of which were hand-me-downs from Yuka. She felt yet another rush of jealousy on many levels. She looked so much cuter in her own clothes…that wasn't fair in itself. She forced herself to shake the image from this morning from her mind, although it was proving to be quite a challenge. She wasn't wrong…Nyuu was dressing like this for Khota. No matter how many times she had reassured herself of her decision, feeling that she had come to terms with this, she just felt it wasn't fair. She wanted to be the one dressing up for him, among many other things…

"…I guess I'll go clean the bathrooms." Nyuu concluded, deciding on her day's chore.

Mayu was able to attend school, she was able to continue on with a normal life….but Nyuu and Nana couldn't exactly do that. It would have been very difficult to forge identification papers in order to get them enrolled in the system. What was worse, they were bound to draw attention, especially Nana. Attention was something they really didn't need. Who knew if that organization conducting the research on the Diclonius was still active? Chances are they were. If they caught wind of suspicious young girls anywhere, they'd be on top of it in no time, with a small army of armed soldiers no doubt. Better safe than sorry, Yuka had said. All it would take is Nana's leg coming off to stir up all kinds of questions.

Since neither of them could attend school, it was decided they had to maintain the house, and had set chores to do each day. They had fallen into a steady rhythm for the most part, but Nana still had trouble with certain tasks. She tried hard though, and was learning quickly. That's all that was asked of her.

Today would be different though….instead of Yuka's usual "ok, that sounds fine", Nyuu received a very different, and unexpected response.

"No, not today. I have something else I'd like you to do."

Yuka looked over to Nana, who was finishing the remains of her oatmeal hurriedly.

"Nana, could you clean the bathrooms today?"

The young girl let out a muffled protest, her mouth still full of food, but seeing the pleading look on Yuka's face made her quickly relent. She had been nice enough to make her breakfast, after all. She stood with her bowl and tossed it into the sink, rushing out of the room and heading up the hall for whatever reason. Maybe she wanted to finish quickly and catch her favorite TV drama or something?

Yuka turned her attention away from the doorway Nana had just run out of back to Nyuu, who had a look of annoyance rather than curiosity on her features. She should have expected that, Nyuu didn't exactly care for her, for some odd reason. It was a complete mystery to Yuka. She had never met Nyuu before that day on the beach…right? Why was she so angry with her all the time? Was that just part of her defense? Was she just another possible threat that could hurt her one day, so she kept her at arms length?

None of that mattered right now. In fact…even if they couldn't become friends, or even get along and hold a civil conversation, it didn't make much of a difference. This wasn't about her.

"Ok then, Nyuu. Today, I want to teach you how to cook." She said with a hearty smile.

Nyuu blinked several times out of surprise. She certainly hadn't expected Yuka to say that. She looked around on the Formica countertop, noting the various ingredients and dishes. Her? Cook? What the hell was this girl trying to do? Become friends with her? This was ridiculous. Her eyes glazed over with a look of utter contempt, and she turned slightly, halfway facing the doorway.

"….you must be joking." She muttered.

"No, Nyuu! I'm serious. I want to teach you how to cook. So c'mon, grab an apron and wash your hands."

"I'll pass" she retorted quickly, beginning to head out of the kitchen. The idea of spending any amount of time with her was out of the question. She, who Khota had gone to the festival with that night, instead of her. She, who does nothing but try to gain his attention on a daily basis. In Nyuu's mind, there was nothing to discuss with her.

As she reached the doorway, she felt a small yet firm hand grasp her wrist, preventing her from continuing. She spun around quickly, her eyes ablaze with anger.

"…Let go." She commanded fiercely. Yuka's eyes did not waver. She began taking steps back into the kitchen, pulling Nyuu with her.

"I said let go!" she yelled. She attempted to wrench her wrist from Yuka's grasp, but the girl was surprisingly strong. Somewhere in the back of her mind, an urge to utilize her one true protection: her vectors, echoed within her. She shut her eyes fiercely, stifling that part of her. She had allowed that part of her to take over when she was young…and she had killed. She had killed so many people…but she wasn't that person anymore. She didn't have to be so afraid…she would deal with her problems…not eliminate them.

"…why?" she asked aloud.

"it's….important."

Nyuu met her eyes, and Yuka released her wrist finally. She knew she wouldn't run away, she was too curious. Something in her eyes told her that she genuinely wanted to know why Yuka was so adamant about this.

"…why do you want me to cook so badly?"

Yuka smiled slightly, placing her hands on Nyuu's slender shoulders.

"….you have to do what I can't."

"What the hell are you talking about?"

Yuka, deciding she had Nyuu's full attention, let go and moved back to the counter, leaning against the counter, crossing her arms lightly in front of her.

"….Khota cares about you a lot….huh?" she asked finally.

"What does that have to do with any-"

"Khota….he…" Yuka interrupted. "…he cares about you too. He cares about all of us….he's got a big heart."

Nyuu was becoming more and more confused by the moment. Yuka spoke in riddles to her…just what was she getting at? She moved further into the kitchen and leaned against the adjacent island counter, facing her as she spoke.

"He really does everything he can to help others. He adopted Mayu, he took in you and Nana…. Like I said…he does so much for others….but…in the process he forgets to take care of himself. He doesn't even eat properly most of the time! Sometimes…he doesn't eat at all. That's why….that's why you have to take care of him now!"

Nyuu looked up in surprise, meeting Yuka's serious expression. The girl was crying.

"Don't you understand? He chose you! You're the one he's going to let get close to him. So you're going to have to be the one to help him…you're going to have to take care of him, just as he takes care of you. That's what love is! You care for each other, you protect each other, you show your weakness to each other….and you heal each other."

Nyuu's eyes widened and her mouth opened slightly. She was in utter shock. She had to take care of him? This whole time he had been the one taking care her…she was broken….or so she had regarded herself. How could she possibly take care of someone else? She couldn't even take care of herself…

But here was Yuka, telling her that Khota needed her...that she had to help him, take care of him…heal him. Yuka, despite having been rejected by Khota, was trying to teach her how to cook simply so that Khota would be well taken care of. She wanted him to be happy no matter what…even if she wasn't the one to do it.

Nyuu bowed her head slightly, her dark red bangs falling in front of her face, hiding her expression. She suddenly felt extremely guilty harboring such jealousy and anger towards Yuka. She really was an amazing person. She was kind, sweet, gentle, caring, and beautiful…everything a man would look for in a woman. She's even willing to help another woman who happens to be in love with the same man she loves….

How could she even hope to compete with that? Khota had let her stay in his room that night, and had kissed her that morning, but…he wouldn't really choose her over Yuka…how could he? Comparing the two of them…isn't she the obvious choice?

Yuka noticed Nyuu's expression, even if she couldn't see her face. This wouldn't do. She didn't know exactly what was going through her mind, but she decided it wasn't something that involved her. That was a 'Khota problem'. She reached for a nearby apron and handed it to Nyuu, drawing her out of her trance. Nyuu gave her a small, honest smile.

"….thank you…"

Yuka returned her smile with a beaming grin of her own.

"Well then! Let's get started!"

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Khota's shoes scuffed against the scattered concrete blocks that created a pathway up to the door through the yard as he walked lazily to his destination. He was sleepy, and it was getting dark. It was only about six o' clock too…guess winter really was approaching. The rain had finally stopped around four or so, but the sky was still thick with fast-moving gray clouds, threatening to begin another downpour at any minute. A cold rush of wind blew past him, and he clutched his chest slightly, trying to break some of the winds.

'Man…today was so boring…'

With a sigh, he slid open the door and set down his backpack from his shoulder, and kicked off his sneakers. It was cozily warm inside Kaida house, as usual. The instant he stepped inside he felt warmed to the bone. He pulled up the sleeves to his hooded sweatshirt, and took a few steps down the hall, noting the time on the old grandfather clock as he passed by. Suddenly an aroma so sweet and tantalizing passed into his nostrils, causing his mouth to instantaneously water up. He hurried into the kitchen, stopping quickly, having almost run into a speeding Nana. She let out a surprised "uWaAAA" before ducking down with the bowls in her hands and sneaking past him into the dining room across the hall. Having narrowly avoided the collision, he poked his head into the doorway.

"That's all there is to it! See? You did great!" Yuka exclaimed.

"…thank you…it wasn't as hard as I thought it would be…" Nyuu responded with a broad smile.

"Hey…what smells so good?" Khota interjected, slightly confused.

"Oh hey Khota!" Yuka responded in much higher spirits than he expected her to be. "Nyuu made stir fry. It does smell terrific doesn't it? The girl's a natural!"

Khota exchanged glances with Yuka, and looked over to Nyuu, who was drying off her hands on a nearby dish towel.

"Nyuu? You made this?"

Nyuu immediately blushed slightly, turning her gaze down and starting to untie the apron around her torso.

"Well…Yuka did most of it…"

"Hey! Give yourself more credit! I just showed you the recipe and gave you some pointers. You did everything Nyuu, pat yourself on the back!"

"That's incredible Nyuu! It smells delicious, I can't wait to taste it!"

Nyuu placed the apron onto the countertop and blushed even more. She met Khota's look and smiled, despite herself. Yuka smiled and shook her head, removing her own apron and wiping her hands off.

Quiet footsteps approached from behind and Khota turned to see Mayu had snuck up on him with a worried expression.

"Oh, welcome home Khota! Hey…everyone…maybe we should eat now? Nana's almost foaming at the mouth….at this rate she'll start without us and we won't get any food."

"I HEARD that!" came the far away yet loud cry from the other room.

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Dinner had gone over without a hitch. Everyone was so happy together. They shared their meals, exchanged stories of their days, and laughed together…just like a real family. Nyuu had received a lot of compliments on her first attempt at cooking, and Khota had received a hard elbow to the side when he had asked Yuka why Nyuu's cooking tasted better even though she had coached her through the process, much to Nana's amusement. It really was an amazing thing that everyone was getting along the way they were.

Khota had decided to take a shower after dinner, having not had one in about 36 hours. Yuka was off studying, as usual, while Nana and Mayu received the task of cleaning up after dinner. Nyuu was excused from that of course, being the cook. She shifted her weight to left leg, and crossed her arms lightly, grasping both her elbows with her fingertips. Thunder could be heard nearby, and the rain was beginning to pick up again. Luckily for her, she was already underneath the canopy by the back door. She often came out here to think, whenever she had some alone time. Usually she found herself watching the sunset here, since Kaida house faced east. No sunset could be seen this night, however. She eyed the ground as puddles formed in the moisture-saturated earth. Droplets struck the surfaces of the small pools of water, sending circular ripples out to the edges that somehow, almost hypnotically drew her attention. It was now dark, and the falling rains drowned out all other sounds.

Cooking had been a very unique experience to her, but it wasn't as hard as she thought it was going to be. Actually, she kind of enjoyed it, and Yuka had been so patient with her…she wasn't at all the person Nyuu thought her to be. When you look deeper into her, past the irritated looks and uptight reactions, she really is a nice person. Maybe becoming friends with her wasn't such an impossible notion after all. The more she spent time with everyone, the fonder of them she became. All those years, she had convinced herself she was just…different. She didn't belong with normal people, she couldn't live with anyone…but in a few weeks she had changed so drastically and yet so naturally it almost scared her. But the change felt so right to be a frightening thing.

People fear change. It's human nature. We fall into a set routine and become comfortable with that. To go outside of that means trudging through uncharted territory for us…and we have no guarantees. For many people, that's a very frightening thing. But, as she discovered, change is not always a bad thing. Sometimes, it can be a beautiful new experience. She had changed…and this was who she was now…for the first time in her life, instead of self loathing, she had respect for herself. She loved the person she had become, and the person she was when she was with her new family. All those years of mistreatment, abuse, indignation, they were just a faraway nightmare to her now, being washed away by the warmth of those that now cared for her, like patches of mud on a stone pathway in a rainstorm.

Another cold gust of wind filled the air, tossing her hair out of place and into her eyes. She rubbed her upper arms with her hands through her shirt, trying to warm herself. Her efforts to rub warmth back into her body were aided by another pair that traced across her back, down her shoulders, finally encircling her waist as she was pulled back into a familiar form.

"You're going to catch a cold if you stay out here too long." He said quietly, his lips brushing against her ear leaving warm traces of his breath down her neck, sending a cold shiver up her spine before being replaced by a flaring heat.

She placed her hands over his, and craned her neck so she could see his face. His smoky blue eyes were comforting to stare into, like a pond nestled deep in a secluded forest. She gave him a smile and let the weight of both her body and her head fall against his. He supported her from behind with his embrace, and they held that comfortable position in a peaceful silence for a few moments. Despite the dark atmosphere, they were content to be there in that way. It was still almost unbelievable to her, that Khota would choose her over Yuka. From her point of view, she was the obvious choice…but Yuka had even said herself Khota had chosen her, although she was doubtful, despite everything he had told her. She had a 'too good to be true' mindset when it came to that topic…but here he was, holding her.

"..what were you doing out here anyways? Thinking?"

"…yeah…"

"…anything interesting?"

"I guess so….I was thinking about everyone…we've gotten kinda close…huh?"

Khota simply nodded in response, closing his eyes and inhaling slowly and deeply through his nostrils, catching a healthy whiff of her sweet scent.

"I'm not really used to that…" she continued. "…you know…being close to people…trusting people….but…I like it."

"Then, you'll stay?"

"Yeah."

He was relieved to hear her say that. He couldn't shake the feeling that maybe a part of her wanted to leave on her own again.

"Although…everyone won't live here forever…" he started.

"…I know…"

"So…whatever happens….Nyuu, would you stay with me?"

She removed her hands from his and turned around to meet him. She was so happy to hear those words, she almost felt like crying. Khota really had chosen her; he loved her, just like he had told her. He wanted her to stay with him; he wanted to be with her. At long last her doubts had finally been put to rest. She opened her mouth so respond, but her voice was disobeying her at the moment. Instead of fighting it, she opted for a more silent way of conveying her answer: she kissed him. Her arms wrapped tightly around his neck and she pushed herself up against him, letting out a small moan as his tongue entered her mouth, deepening the kiss. He could feel her breasts pressing against his chest, fueling the already blazing fires of passion stirring within him. He placed his hands on her lower back and pulled her closer. After a few moments, their lips parted and they both clenched onto each other in a tight embrace.

"You don't have to be alone anymore…" he whispered. This only made her tighten her grasp on him. After a pause, he loosened his hold on her; he met her eyes through her tussled bangs, and brushed a few stray locks away, tucking them behind her ear. She was blushing most profusely, the color of her cheeks beginning to resemble the crimson of her hair and eyes.

"…let's go inside. It's cold out here."

He led her inside and down the hallway, into his room. The heavy rains could still be heard from outside, the drops lightly thudding against the rooftop as well as the nearby windows. The house was rather dark, save for the light that could be seen from underneath the doors in the halls.

What happened next, she could not even begin to describe. She recalled little details…. a need overtook her body, and she found herself acting purely on instinct. As if on its own, her body acted; it ached for him, and she found herself tugging at his shirt. Their lips melded with one another's, as did their bodies. Soon she found herself beneath him on his futon, as he laid trails of kisses down her jaw and her throat. She gasped and moaned as she was consumed by caresses. She bit her lip, and nestled her eyes into his shoulder as she convulsed again and again, crying out his name in ecstasy. Time stood still for what seemed like both a very long time, as well as an instantaneous moment. She felt…whole. If anything was to be recalled of that night, it was the feeling she got being with him. She felt needed, and most of all, loved. She never wanted to forget that feeling.

She never wanted to forget exactly what his love had provided her: a sanctuary; a place for her to heal from the heavy emotional scars that plagued her. He had given her such happiness, and taken her away from all the horrible things she never felt she deserved. He was what she deserved. He was what she wanted, what she loved. And in return, she was loved. He was hers, and she, his. Together, they would do as Yuka had said. Just what people who love each other do. Help each other, care for each other, show their strengths as well as their weaknesses, and protect each other. They were both each other's sanctuary.

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"Nyuu…wake up." He cooed softly, trying to stir her. She opened her eyes slowly and smiled up at him, a few crimson locks of hair trailing across his flesh, tickling him somewhat. She inhaled deeply and looked down, realizing that they were both still nude, their bodies entangled as they had fallen to rest last night. Spiting the heavy blush that rose to her cheeks, she nuzzled her face into his bare chest and grasped him closely.

"Haha…c'mon, we can't sleep all day, I have something planned."

"Hmm?" she asked sleepily.

"…I had an idea…let's go to the zoo….I bet you'll still think the elephants are amazing."

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In you and I, there's a new land,

Angels in flight,

I need more affection than you know

My sanctuary, my sanctuary,

Where fears and lies melt away,

Music in time,

I need more affection than you know

What's left of me,

What's left of me now?

I watch you fast asleep,

All I fear means nothing,

In you and I, there's a new land,

Angels in flight,

I need more affection than you know

My sanctuary, my sanctuary,

Where fears and lies melt away,

Music in time,

I need more affection than you know

What's left of me,

What's left of me?

So many ups and downs

My heart's a battleground

I need true emotions

I need more affection than you know

I need true emotions

You show me how to see

That nothing is whole and nothing is broken,

In you and I there's a new land,

Angels in flight,

I need more affection than you know

My sanctuary, my sanctuary,

Where fears and lies melt away,

Music in time,

I need more affection than you know

What's left of me,

What's left of me now?

My fears, my lies..

Melt away

"Sanctuary" English Opening for Kingdom Hearts 2, Square Enix. TM

Artist: Utada Hikaru

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Well, that's the end. Thanks for reading, see you next time!