X
Step Two:
Finding a Partner
X
Aion was quiet the next day. Very quiet. Too quiet. Chrono fidgeted
nervously on the hard cafeteria bench, careful to keep his eyes on
anything but his friend. It was never a good omen, after all,
Aions silence. He rarely ever kept his mouth shut, what with being
one of those animated theatre types. But not today. . .
The violet haired boy squirmed a second time, trying his best to
bite back a whimper. Perhaps this unusual hush was the explanation
behind his knotted stomach; the slippery moistness of his palms. .
. ? Though Chrono lacked a lot, good instinct was something he had
in abundanceand that instinct was currently telling him to
high-tail it out of there.
Which was something he simply couldnt do. A stunt like that would
only prove to tick Aion off even more. Besides, who said Aion was
angry at him? It could have been something Genai had done, or maybe
Shader had accidentally given him the wrong answers to his
homework. Or that Eliza-girl had thrown another jealous tantrum.
Really, it could had been any one of those things. . . he shouldnt
be scared.
Right. . . ?
Trying vainly to swallow the sour lump forming in his throat,
Chrono chanced a glance to his left towards the opposite table,
one of the many on the other side of the lunchroom. . . . ! All
color immediately drained from his cheeks; wanting to look quickly
away but unable to find the will to do so. For it was Rosettes
table he was now watchingthe occupants laughing and having fun.
The girl everybody loved to hate was today dressed in baggy jeans
that reached her knees, a blue-cloth kimono top, and black,
finger-less gloves with ribbons that laced up her arms. Ribbons
that were currently being yanked at, since she was playfully
bickering with the German foreign exchange student: a tall, busty
girl with a love for precious stones and the color yellow. It
appeared they were wrestling over who got the last snickerdoodle
cookie. Meanwhile, the petite albino people always snickered at was
snickering herself, over a sarcastic comment made by a boy with
blue eyes and blonde hair. He must be Rosettes kid brother. The
resemblance was indisputable.
. . . And his longing to join them was undeniable. Surprising,
yeswhen he realized how much he wished to join the four in their
little corner of the universe, he almost gasped but undeniable all
the same. His eyes lingered on their happiness. . .
Until Rosette glanced his way. Chrono stiffened, feeling utterly
stupid; tearing his eyes away from the sight. But not before she
had a chance to smile and wave for him to come over.
Chrono. . .
The junior gave a jolt, head whipping involuntarily around to stare
at the speaker. It appeared that Aion had gotten over whatever it
was that was bothering him. . . or at least his contemplation of
things concerning the event and/or person. Still, Chrono could feel
icy trepidation clawing at his insides as he replied: Yyes. . .
?
Meet me in front of the school before you go home tonight,
brother, the silver-haired teen murmured smoothly, avoiding eye
contact as he bit thoughtfully into his friends peanut butter
sandwich. There is something I must discuss with you. . .
Chrono gulped silently, hands twisting underneath the table. He was
dead.
X
It was raining again, as it often did in the springtime. Not
storming, like a few days agoonly a little drizzle, the kind the
frizzled hair and moistened outfits. Droplets the size the morning
dew collected on and clung to the building walls, rain gutters,
lawn; creating mud and slime and stickiness on the concrete. An
oozing redness, too, was quickly appearing on the pavement; mixing
with the gunk to create a puddle of sludge.
It was a concoction that didnt taste very good. Chrono could tell
you that first hand.
! the violet locked boy choked, eyes wide and glassy, collapsing
upon his knees; winded. Blood slipped sluggishly down his chin,
already wet with saliva and rain. Oh, the movie-cliché-ness of it
all was enough to make him want to laugh. But he couldnt find the
oxygen to do anything more than cough.
AhChrono, Chrono, Chrono. . . Aion lamented lazily, crouching
before his panting friend with a sick little smile on his face.
Beside him, Genai and Viede, two of Aions theatre lackeys (though
they seemed more like the wrestling type, body-build wise), cracked
their knuckles, sneering in not-so-secret delight. Theyd never
liked Chrono much to begin with. . . When will you learn, brother?
Why do you keep forcing me to punish you, so? Clucking his tongue
disapprovingly, the taller teen reached out a manicured hand and
tilted Chronos chin upwards, admiring the bruises blossoming on
his grime-caked cheeks. A little spatter of maroon was smeared over
the bridge of his nose identical to the substance staining the
corners of his mouth. Aion sighed laboriously, shaking his head and
releasing his hold on Chrono, allowing the junior to push himself
painfully to his feet. I truly hate doing this to you, you know.
But how else will I get it through your head? If youre to be seen
with me, you mustnt make me look like a fool by hanging out with
TRASH!
Omph! the smaller boy quivered and released a strangled dry
heave, barely able to keep himself from crumpling as Genai kneed
him painfully in the gut; the assault quickly followed by an attack
from Viede. It felt as if his hair was going to be yanked from his
skull; ripped out strand by strand. . .! A grimace forming on his
face, Chrono prepared himself for a jaw-shattering punch
What the HELL is going on here!
! The grip on his braid loosened, allowing him to drop limply to
the ground; convulsing. Blood seeped from his body from unseen
wounds, staining the nearby gravel red. But that. . . that was
unimportant. Pain, too, didnt matter. He had to see. . . was it
really. . . ? After much trying, Chrono managed to peal open his
swelling eyes. . . fixing them on the girl who now stood, furious,
at the opening of the shallow alleyway.
R. . . Ros. . . ette. . . the boy hacked out, trying to ignore
the sensations speaking caused: like knives were carving up the
inside of his throat. Go. . . !
Ah, its Rosette Chistopher. . . Aion purred delightedly, cutting
off Chrono by stepping deliberately on his already scarred hand.
How marvelous it is to finally meet you face to face! Ive heard
so very much about you. . .
Im sure, Rosette growled, blue eyes flashing. She had a
motorcycle helmet underneath one arm, and a scowl on her faceone
that masterfully hid the confusion she felt. But that doesnt
answer my question, asshole. What the fuck are you doing to
Chrono?
The boy shrugged, coming to a casual stop before the seething
senior. Nothing. Simply punishing him . . . because of you,
actually.
. . . ? She stiffened, the hair on the back of her neck
practically standing on end as her free hand tightened to form a
fist. Behind them, Chrono started sliding up the wall, attempting
to find his wobbly footing. Genai kicked his feet out from under
him. What!
You see, Aion continued, nonchalantly reaching out to brush a
strand of curling hair from Rosettes eyes (needless to say, she
batted the hand away none too gently), I just cant let him be
seen with sluts like yourself. Its not good for my reputation.
Youll understand all about crumbling reputations, I presume. And
he began to reach back. . . as if winding up to take a swing at
her.
Something within him snapped.
Dont. . . touch h. . . her.
! The pale-locked teen froze, blinking in surprise upon
processing the icy harshness in the spat words. What was that . .
. ? he inquired lightly, turning on his heel towards Chronowho
was, once more, working himself to a stand. But this time, when
Genai tried to knock him back down, Chrono kicked him instead.
Which, considering the countless years of training his legs had
undergone for dance purposes, was saying something. In fact, after
seeing the expression on his friends face, Viede simply backed
away; white with shock.
I said, dont touch her! Leave her alone, and dont call her a
slut! the ruby eyed boy roared, leaning heavily against the bricks
to keep his balance. But his face held no hint of anything more
than white-hot rage. Shes not!
Oh. . . ? Isnt she, now? Aion chuckled, taking a step away from
Rosette; sauntering towards his growling peer. How amusing! You
seemed to think she was last week.
Chrono winced, avoiding Rosettes gaze. Not that it matteredshe
seemed to be in a strange sort of shock, staring blankly as they
conversed. I I didnt know her then. Aand. . . argh, I dont
know! You told me she was, so I pretended to believe I thought so,
too! And you know what, Aion? Thats all Ive ever done! Ive
justjust agreed! And Im sicksick of it! Giving himself a slight
push, the boy managed to stand tallbreathing hard and looking
sickly, but tall. Im SICK of it!
What in Gods name was he doing? He had no idea. He had absolutely
no ideahe might as well have just asked to be murdered. But at the
same time. . . at the same time. . .
Hell, if they all hate me anyway, why bother trying to
impress?
He hadnt been. He hadnt . . . he. . . didnt. He didnt want to
waste the time anymore, trying to be something he wasnt.
Your problem is that youve given up on everythingyour hopes,
your dreams, and just yourself in general.
He didnt want to cry anymore, to lie anymore. To lay there in that
metaphorical ditch and surrender.
I can see whats right in front of me. And honestly, I see a
pathetic, self-pitying crybaby with a bucket load of talent hes
just letting rot because hes too chicken to try!
He was tired of cowering in the shadows.
Take it from me, kid: life can be as wonderful as you want
it.
He wanted the sun.
Are you, now. . . ? Sick, huh?
Chrono gave a small jolt, so preoccupied with his thoughts that he
hadnt noticed Aion who was now eye to eye with him, holding him
up by the scruff of his neck. I dont know if I like your
attitude, brother. Perhaps you need to be taught another lesson. .
. ? With his free hand, he slowly raised a little black bag,
dangling it tauntingly before the battered boy. A very familiar
little black bag. . . Aion sneered as a look of horrified
recognition shot across Chronos face. . .
And then started when the teen sneered right back. You can take
them, the smaller of the pair spat, eyes narrowed. Theres more
to dancing then shoes, idiot. I dont need themjust like I dont
need you!
Chrono, youre going too far! Rosette suddenly cried, as if
waking from a trance. Slipping slightly on a bit of slick tar, she
began to rush forward, throwing her helmet aside. You dont need
to give that bastard anything!
You stay out of this, slut! Aion hissed, snapping his malevolent
glare upon her; swinging the tote around to
CRACK!
Chrono wheezed, needing air; his feet finally retouching the ground
as he lowered his fist, watching a surprised Aion topple to the
sidewalk; nose quite obviously broken. I warned you. . . the
junior huffed, voice cracking; eyes flashing. I warned you. . .
not to call her that!
. . .
The sound of scuffling cowboy boots came to a timid stop. . . . C
Chrono. . . ?
He glanced up, smiling weakly as his eyes met her ownstartled and
full of bewilderment. That. . . he confessed softly, felt
good.
She beamed. . . And then dropped beside him, throwing her arms
around his neck and pulling him close to stem his flow of tears.
Yes: huge, crystalline crocodile tears had begun cascading down his
cheeks without his notice; before he could stop them catching on
his lashes and dribbling down his chin.
I. . . Im sorry, Rosette. . . Chrono hissed, burying his face in
her stomach and holding her tightly, unsure why he was crying but
knowing he wouldnt be able to stop if he tried. Im sso sorry !
You were right. . . you were right all along! A bitter laugh fell
from his lips; a laugh that turned into a sob, his eyes clamping
shut and emotions on overload. Im scared. . . ! I didnt want to
admit it: Im scared of. . . everything. But I wasnt always! I
used to. . . Ive tried before. . . but. . . this always happens. .
.
What always happens? Rosette questioned softly, her cheek pressed
tenderly to the crown of his head. Her very presence was soothing.
He hiccuped.
Tthis. . . he repeated, pulling back enough to indicate what was
left of the scene. Not much. . . Genai and Viede had collected Aion
and split while they werent lookingleaving only puddles of blood
and mud in their wake. Not a single remaining knapsack or bag. . .
It looked as if Chrono was going to have to buy more school
supplies again. But for some reason, he didnt really care at the
moment. The bullying. . . the teasing. . . the. . . the
everything. . .
But why? the girl pressed, sounding torn between sympathy and
exasperation. Touching his cheek, she wordlessly asked him to look
at her. He did so, their noses barely an inch apart. Why do you
let it?
I dont! Chrono sniffled, sadness and frustration continuing to
spill silently down his face. At least, I didnt. . . I tried to
fight it for so long, RosetteI did! But it kept happening and I. .
. I. . . its because Im such a freak.
She did a double take, hands tightening around him. What?
I am. . . he nodded earnestly, trying to keep his nose from
running but failing miserably. Rosette didnt seem to mind,
thoughall of her attention was committed to his words. Look at
me! Im short, pointy-eared, red eyed. . . and I have naturally
purple hair! Who has naturally purple hair? And then. . . Ive
moved so often. . . and dancing. . . and. . . and. . . I just am,
he finished lamely, a pathetic grin on his face.
Rosette, however, wasnt in the mood to return the look. She
glowered instead. Bushwa!
. . . ?
Thats bullshit! she clarified, her own expression softening upon
processing the perplexed expression painted upon his black-and-blue
face. You are NOT a freak! Who cares what you look like? What you
enjoy? What they think? They obviously dont know you, and thats
their problem. Her brow crinkling, she touched his cheek a second
time, pressing their foreheads together. But Chrono, she
murmured almost desperately, you cant expect anyone to like you
until you like yourself. Do you?
. . . Did he? For the first time in his life, Chrono asked
himself that very question. A stupid question, really. And yet. . .
Do I? He thought for a moment. . . then snorted.
The answer was clearso clear it was almost funny. Pathetic, but
funny. And as he started to laugh, he began to cry, one more, as
well trembling terribly from head to foot. No! he wailed,
chuckles transforming into snivels and then back into giggles. No,
I hate myself! But. . . but Rosette. . . Touching her pocket
watch with the tip of his finger and allowing himself to relax with
the thrum of each rhythmic tick, he stared deep into her ocean-blue
pools.
But you have to want it.
I. . . I want change. I want a different life. . . I finally want
it. I want it! I really, really do!
. . . She grinned, closing one hand around his own so that they
both held her pendant. Then change things.
Silence. Chronos eyes widened slightly; thinking, planning,
praying, nodding. Then he stood: suddenly not tired, or sore, or
blubbering. Instead he felt quite calm. . . and ready to take
action. Oblivious to the throbbing of his limbs and his state of
appearance, the teen marched back into the school, down the halls,
through the auditorium doors. . .
And right up to the drama teacher.
She blinked in surprise upon seeing him, seemingly horrified.
Chrono, dear, are you all ri?
I want to audition.
Again, she faltered. Ppardon?
I want to audition, Chrono repeated, fists clenched at his side.
I know Im late but. . . please?
. . . The woman smiled gently at him. Ive been waiting a long
time to hear those words from you. Handing him the script that had
been attached to her clipboard and taking a seat in the audience,
she waited patiently for Chrono to find his way on stage. Please
read the monologue on page 56, and then do the first half of the
dance routine we discussed in class.
So he did. Bleeding and wet and hurting and torn, he recited the
lines and danced his heart out, feeling the rest of the world fall
away. The feeling of which was a strange one to describe: a warmth,
deep within him, that seemed to buzz and tickle and grow. Was it. .
. happiness? No, it was more then that. But then, what. . . ? Oh,
not that the name of the sensation was of any importanceit was how
it made him feel that was. And hr felt wonderful! He was free. . .
! He was flying. . . !
Then he was done. And when he was, the teacher wasnt the only one
applauding. Rosette was, tooleaning casually against the doorframe
with a huge beam on her face.
And he grinned back.
X
He actually said that?
Chrono nodded, albeit a bit shyly, as the basement rec room
exploded with laughterteenage giggles bouncing off of the vanilla
walls and over-stuffed couches. He threatened me, and then tried
to bribe me back with my shoes.
God, thats pathetic! Joshua guffawed, shaking his head while
looking through a collection of kareoke CDs, trying to choose a
song to make Azmaria perform. (In an earlier game of truth or dare
she had admitted to believing that she could sing anythingthough
she looked quite ashamed with her egotistical self when she
shared this. Regardless, now they were forced to test her. And they
planned to have fun doing so.) Seriouslyyou can buy shoes. Ya
cant buy pride.
Amen! Rosette cheered, dancing back from the mini bar (a random
collection of different shaped goblets and non-alcoholic drinks) in
a black tank top andwell, they could only be described as genie
pants: sheer, poofy, teal colored gauze that hung loosely from her
hips; barely hiding her dark panties from view. (Chrono had only
just recently managed to quell his blush. Everyone else had been
fine apparently not having even noticed her apparel. Or they were
just used to it. Probably the latter.) She jingled when she walked,
wearing that bell earring again; serving everyone grape juice in
wine glasses. Oh yes, they were the upper crust, all right. .
.
Psh, Satella snorted, taking her tumbler with a sneer and a toss
of her hair, not even Welches. . .
The blonde snarled. Up yours, German toad!
At least I can sing better than one!
What was that?
Nothing, nothing. . . the taller woman replied breezily, crossing
her legs and allowing her already short skirt to hike up another
few inches. She grinned toothily, taking a long pull of her drink.
I just think its obvious who the better singer is. . . right,
Chrono-baby? A mischievous finger brushed his shoulder.
Chrono smiled tensely, scooting edgily away from the purring
German. Rosette had been righther heart was in the right place.
But her hands? They generally werent. Er. . . eh heh. . . right.
. .
Rosette glowered, hopping over the back of the small couch and
squeezing herself forcefully between them. Dont let her bully
you, Chrono!
I wasnt bullying him! Satella pouted, glancing away with a sigh.
I was simply offering to show him what a REAL woman is like. .
.
What the (the blonde twitched) Im ALL real!
Oh yeah?
Rosette, calm down! the violet-haired boy laughed, nervously
holding up his hands. Azmaria, who satalmost as timidly (though
much more relaxed), beside Joshua on the second couch rolled her
eyes.
Yes, Rosette, she agreedcasting her boyfriend a mildly worried
glance when he began cackling evilly, heading towards the kareoke
machine. Breathe!
Yeah! Okay, she wasnt listening. Im all real!
Satella stood, a hand on her hip. Prove it!
? The senior faltered, straightening as well. Wha? How? Shall
I strip or something! she spat sarcastically, reaching for the hem
of her shirt. (! Chrono had to duck away for a moment, grabbing a
tissue for his bloody nose.)
But the battle was unexpectedly interrupted by the melodic tunes
of. . .
Good lord.
NO! Az yelped, jumping to her feet; flaming red and glaring at
Joshua. He smiled innocently back, handing her a microphone. No
way!
Ah, but you said
I dont care what I said!
We do! We do! Yes, in less than half a second, both Rosette and
Satella had forgotten what they were arguing aboutinstead deciding
to join forces, ready to be entertained. It could be reasonably
assumed that one (or both) had stashed a tape recorder somewhere. .
. Blackmail was good. Go Azzy! Go Azzy!
But! The albino glanced helplessly towards Chrono, her last
hope. Tell them!
Chrono couldnt help but grin. Sorry. . . Im with them on
this.
She pouted.
All right, babe, Im gonna restart the song, Joshua informed her
in a soothing voice, mischief twinkling in his dark blue eyes. Oh,
he was unquestionably Rosettes little brother. . . And then
youre going to sing for us. Okay? After that you can make someone
else do the work.
. . . okay. . .
If anyones heart bled when they heard her whimper, they managed to
hide it well. Good girl!
And so, with a deep sigh, Azmaria brought the mike to her lipsand
sang.
Im too sexy for my shirtplease God too sexy for my shirtIm
begging So sexy it hurts kill me now . .
Woo! GO AZ! the blonde chortled, starting a very exuberant wave
(which turned out to be more of a ripple than anything,
considering there were only four listeners present. And Joshua was
too busy watching Azmaria shake her little tush on the catwalk.).
Go Azma!
A cough. Which rapidly became a series of coughs muffled behind a
hand and a napkin. Chrono tensed slightly, casting the girl a
concerned look. She smiled in returned, scratching a rash on her
arm before taking a sip of juice. Dont look at me like that, she
whispered, eyes returning to Azmaria. Im fineeveryone
coughs!
Did you take your medicine today? Joshua murmured, most of his
attention still on his girlfriend but a worried note in his voice
nonetheless. Rosette smacked the back of his head. Ow!
Did you take yours?
Hey Im only sickly, not sick.
Why you!
Is everything all right down here?
All five teens stopped mid sentence, twisting to face the stairwell
and the stern-looking woman in glasses who stood there: holding a
box of pizza and wearing a tight frown. Az flushed fusha, hiding
the microphone behind her back and turning off the television set
before the lyrics were noticed by Bible-thumping Kate
Remington.
No, Auntie, everythings jake, Rosette bubbled rather forcibly,
eyes narrowing when she noticed her caretakers gaze on Chrono. She
obviously didnt like the idea of him being there (a fact shed
made quite apparent when he showed up that day.). . . though
honestly, she should have been more worried about Joshua and his
too-sexy of a girlfriend.
Its not like. . . you know. . . Rosette and Chrono were. . . We
were just goofing off. Thanks for the food!
Mmm. Youre welcome, the woman replied rather stiffly, her
high-heels clacking loudly as she set the pizza on a fold out
table; crossing her arms and pursing her lips. Your Uncle Ewan and
I are going out . . . well be back at midnight, and I expect the
house to be clean and empty of all but two teens before we return.
Understand? Good. Oh, and Rosette, did you take your?
Yes, yes, yes! Rosette fumed, clambering over the edge of the
couch in an attempt to reach the pizza before anyone else. (She
failed.) You think Id have this if I didnt? She jabbed
thoughtlessly towards her rash before calming down and winking at
her aunt. You two have a good timeand behave. I know how
animalistic you can be when you think no ones watching. . .
Both of the Christopher siblings made claws with their fingers,
slashing wildly and laughing as Kates face grew cherry red. To say
she left quickly would be an understatement.
Now then! Satella clapped her hands, regaining her usual bossy
tone. I think weve tortured Azzy long enough. Lets torment
someone new! A chorus of not its reverberated through the
basement, accompanied by quickly raised hands. And for all of his
dancing reflexes, Chrono was simply unable to beat them.
Mwahaha Chronos up next! Rosette cackled, snatching the CDs
away from her brother and beginning to paw through them, chewing
happily on her slice of pizza. This should be fun. . . !
Rosette! Stop being evil! Chrono demanded, dodging a well-tossed
pillow. I mean it!
But I want to see him do Barbie Girl. . . Joshua sighed in mock
sorrow, laughing when the pillow was redirected towards himself.
Kidding, kidding! What I really want to see is you doing one of
the songs youre gonna sing during the musicalMR. STAR.
The ruby eyed boy blushed, twiddling his thumbs modestly. Im not
really the star. . .
Youre DANNY! How is that NOT the star? Az pointed out with a
giggle, tugging playfully on the end of his purple plait. The only
one with more lines than you is Sandy.
Speaking of which. . . the blonde chirped, brandishing a new CD
with a cry of triumph, here is the Grease karaoke CD! Id love to
hear Summer Nights.
But thats a duet! I cant do it by myself! Chrono protested,
stumbling when he was pushed off the couch and forced to take the
mike. Who would sing it with me?
All eyes turned to Rosette.
She blanched. What? No! You guys know I dont sing!
The albino shrugged, kicking her out of her seat as well. You
suggested it. It seems fair to me!
But!
Cmon, sis, Joshua grinned, popping the music into the machine,
we all know you wanna do it with Chrono.
. . .
. . .
The blonde boy blinked in confusion as everyone looked away, trying
not to laugh. It took a fair amount of effort their faces slowly
turned purple. What? Whatd I say? Wait hey! Youre all sick!
SICK!
No, were teenagers.
Hmph, Satella finally managed to snort, running her fingers
through her long auburn locks with an air of superiority. Well, I
guess this is just Rosettes way of surrendering. We all knew she
wasnt classy enough to carry a tune, anyway. But no worriesIll
sing it with you, Chrono-honey. . . Getting to her feet with a
sway of her hips, the foreign exchange student threw her arms
around Chronos neck; pulling him close and rubbing their cheeks
together. Rosette can just scurry on back to her chair. . .
Rosettes azure pools flashed red, swatting at the shooing hand
Satella brandished in her direction. RRRRRRRRRR. . . !
Er uh the junior squirmed, uncomfortable with how close he was
being pressed to. . . certain places. . . But not as uncomfortable
as Rosette appeared to be. Her snarling had yet to cease.
LET GO OF HIM, YOU RUBE! Im singing! Get off!
Aww. . . The young woman faked a pout, skimming her lips
teasingly close to Chronos ear. Oh well . . shes so much fun to
taunt. Dont you think so, Chrono-sweetie?
Chrono chuckled sounding strained as he tugged himself free. Er.
. . sure. . .
RrrrCmon, Chrono! Rosette roared, kicking the kareoke machine
until the correct music began blasting (and nearly causing Chronos
braid to stand on end). Ready?
I cant hear y!
SING!
Uh Summer lovin had me a blast. . .? the boy tried rather
squeakily, mildly confused as to what he was supposed to be doing.
(Though, in his defense, hed never been invited to do kareoke
before and hadnt been completely prepared for the . . . state of
mind, per say. . . it entailed.) Joshua sighed, rolling his eyes as
he hopped up and grabbed another microphone, muttering something
under his breath about first-timers. Ooo, Chrono had backup (and he
appeared to be thankful for it). . . unfair! Azmaria tittered,
leaping to join Rosette when the older girl beckoned.
Satella just yawned trying to hide her amusement.
Summer lovin happened so fast! the blonde sang back, batting her
eyelashes wistfully with a very phony swooning-gesture. Oh, Azzy,
help me, hes too much MAN for me to handle. . .
Chronothough already embarrassed had enough sense to be mockingly
insulted. So he stuck out his tongueand and. . . He blinked,
freezing momentarily. Before he knew it. . . he was playfully
punching Rosette in the arm. Honestly, the action surprised him
more than the senior. Yes, without realizing it, hed grown
comfortable with her. . . and (to an extent) everybody else.
He had friends.
Rosette grinned, winking. . . before angrily pulling him into a
very vicious chokehold. One that he managed to break free from by
poking her ticklish sides. Owowowow! Met a girl crazy for me or
just crazy!
Gee, thanks! Met a boy, cute as can be compared to!
Joshua leapt forward, pushing the two teens (who were leaning
dangerously close to the other) apart, covering his big sisters
mouth with a nervous chuckle. Lets keep this PG, big
sister.
Ooo, all together now! Azmaria squealed, grabbing Satellas wrist
and tugging her before the machine as well. Summer sun,
somethings begun but, ah, oh those summer night!
Break it down! Rosette cried, grabbing as many hands as she could
and forcing whoever was within a ten foot radius to twist and spin
with hereveryone screeching the rest of the lyrics as loud and
poorly as they could; unable to breathe by the end of the
song.
They were too busy laughing.
X
It was like walking into a pharmacy.
Woah. . . Chrono gaped, open-mouthed, at the rows of differently
colored bottles and twist-top containers that lined the papered
walls of the Remingtons brightly colored kitchen. A kitchen that
smelt like blueberries which was funny, since the theme suggested
that apples be the fruit of choice. You have to take all of
this?
Rosette chuckled, sweeping her arms down the white marble counters;
pulling out random plastic jars that clattered cheerfully when
touched. The junior frowned curiously, attempting to read a label
but finding the names of the medications incredibly difficult to
pronounce. No, theyre not all mine, she assured happily, popping
a few capsules into her mouth before snapping the lid of the jar
shut, selecting another. Maybe half are. The others are for Joshy
he gets ill easily. And hes allergic to practically
everything!
Chrono laughed at her exaggerated irritation, but his good humor
quickly slipped away. . . . Are you feeling all right, then? The
blonde tilted her head in surprise, apparently pleased to hear her
friends concerned tone. Well, she did like attention. I mean. . .
you dont usually take medicine unless. . .
I feel great today, she smiled, carelessly rolling an empty
bottle of something called Agenerase towards the trash can. It fell
into the white basket with a soft thud. Two points! I only take
these to keep from getting sick. Prophylaxis, I think is the
correct term for doing that. Anyway, I have to because. . . er,
well. . . Rosette scratched her head, eyes on Chronos bewildered
but rather interested face. Im not very good at explaining it;
it mostly flies right over my head when the doctors try to help me
understand. But basically, when the number of a certain kind of
white blood cell in your body CD4 cells become less than 200, you
have to start taking drugs to keep diseases from attacking.
. . . Oh.
The senior giggled, bopping her friend nonchalantly over the head.
Dont sweat it. Like I said: I dont get most of it either. Now
cmon, were late meeting the others at the park!
UmIsnt it a park for little kids? Chrono asked lightly as they
stepped out into the messy garage, Rosette locking the kitchen door
behind them.
Yeah, so? she shrugged, fiddling with the knob to make sure it
was sealed. Yep. Your point?
. . . That was my point, actually.
Well, it wasnt a very good one! she bubbled, tipping back her
cowgirl hat and picking up her motorcycle helmet, jamming it onto
her head; tossing Chrono a matching red one. He stared at it for a
moment. . .
And then at the bike it went with. NO.
Aw, dont be such a wet blanket! Lets get a wiggle on! Rosette
squealed, throwing her hip hugger covered legs over the seat and
clutching the handlebars lovingly. It was nearly impossible to see
her face through the dark visor, but a smirk was definitely
detectable in her tone. Starting the beast with a flick of her
wrist, she cackled evilly loud screeches and roars rumbled through
their ears, the motor howling to life. Mwahaha, vroom
vroom!
Rosette, NO! Chrono wailed, though he followed her yanking arms
obediently when she reached out and grabbed him. I dont think YOU
on a bike like this is a good ide!
She (of course) wasnt listening. (It didnt really come as much of
a shock to him that she wasnt.) Hold on!
He did screaming for his life as the motorcycle shot out of the
garage like a bullet, burning rubber all the way down the busy main
road.
X
You know whats amazing to me?
No. . . what?
Rosette smiled at the bright blue sky, eyes fluttering shut as the
blustery day continued to swirl around them; hot sun pounding down
on the field of long, green grasses and gently slopping hills. The
nearby trees rustled softly, birds twittering. Whats amazing to
me. . . she murmured softly, taking a deep breath of the fresh
air, is how everything is always changing. . . and yet, stays
constantly the same.
Chrono frowned lightly, blinking up at the girl. I. . . dont
understand.
HmmI could tell. She giggled at his perplexed expression; one
hand lightly combing through his unbound locks and the other
supporting her weight as she leaned back; smoothing her fingers
over the head that rested in her lap. But thats all right, I
didnt expect you to. Its strange, really. . . how wisdom comes
and goes. If you can call my thinking wise, that is. . . I dont
know. People say that kids are dumb; dont understand. . . but I
think we just perceive things in a different way. Not all ways the
right way, but. . . not always wrong.
The boy grinned faintly, tilting his chin so that their eyes
locked. . . . Id like to understand.
Another breeze whipped through, ruffling the long pink dress and
black, fringed vest Rosette wore. For a moment Chrono swore he saw
her shiverthough it was well over 80 degrees outside and she had
on long sleeves but he made the mistake of blinking before he
asked if she felt all right. She looked fine by the time his eyes
were focused again. . . and hed be smacked if he asked, now.
Still. . .
Well, she began after a silent moment, golden hair fluttering in
the wind, Its like. . . like the sky. Or the sedge, or trees.
Waving her arms wildly, she allowed her fingertips to skim the
dancing grasses which rippled like water in the sunlight. Theyre
always the same, no matter what mood theyre in. It can be stormy
or sunny or snowy or blustery, but the sky is still the sky. It
hasnt changed what it isonly masked itself. Beneath the clouds,
its as blue as ever. The same with wildlife. They can grow and
change color and loose parts of themselves as the seasons demand,
but theyre still the same, deep inside. You dont go up to an oak
and call it a maple just because its leaves are gone for the
winter. Rosette beamed rather feebly, eyes on something that no
one else could see hiding among the ice-cream clouds on the
horizon. Its the same with people. No matter what they try to be,
or how they try to disguise themselves. . . a persons nature is
always the same.
. . . What if they try to change? Chrono inquired softly, maroon
pools half lidded against the bright sun; concentrating on the feel
of her fingers in his long tresses. What if theyre something bad
and they want to be something good? Try to be something
good?
If theyre smart enough to want to be good and can pull through
with their attempts to be so, then their nature was really good
from the start, wasnt it? she reasoned. But, by the same token.
. .
He considered this for a moment. Id like to believe there is good
in everybody.
There probably is, Rosette shrugged, sighing with a silent
sneeze, but some people have too much badness in them and snuff
out the light.
Thats depressing.
She laughed: a loud, brash and yet, airy, tinkling sort of sound.
He rather liked it. . . his sardonically quirked lips pulled up a
bit more. If you want a rainbow, youre going to have to put up
with some rain, the girl quoted, amused. There has to be sad
stuff if youre ever to know what happiness is. The same thing goes
with good and evil. But why are you worrying about it? she asked,
glancing down at the face resting against her thighs with a
cheerful grin. Though you constantly try to deny it, youve always
been the way youre acting now: sarcastic and stupid. . . but sweet
and kind, too. A little wimpy, maybe. . . but charming
nonetheless.
. . . I dont know whether to be insulted or not, Chrono
chuckled; though his cheeks were already a shade of bright
pink.
Rosette snickered, but had soon resorted to looking serious.
Chrono has always been Chrono, she said firmly, giving his hair a
gentle tug in emphasis. You have just never shown that until
now.
He smiled warmly; hands lacing on his stomach as he pondered this,
red orbs drifting shut.
. . . And then a thought struck him. Has Rosette?
The young woman, who had drifted off into her own world of thought
during the momentary silence, gave a tiny start. Hm? Have I
what?
Has Rosette always been Rosette? he questioned, listening to the
shifting of the never-ending grass. Or have you tried to hide your
true self before?
. . . One eye peaked open just in time to see a pale brow,
crinkled in sadness and remorse, forcibly flattened with an over
exaggerated beam. I have, she admitted quietly. I used to try to
fit in. I used to try to befriend the gossips and back-stabbers at
school. . . until I got tired of their bullshit. And I realized, as
I stood there in the school bathroom, crying, that I didnt need
them. . . I didnt have time for it. HehI dont know why a
revelation like that hit me so hard right then, but. . . it did. A
grunt of mild mirth. Thats another weird thing about wisdom, I
suppose: it strikes when you least expect it. She laughed again,
though the sound wasnt quite as joyful as before. . . . After
school that day I went out. . . I dont know why, wanted to cheer
myself up with a smoothie or something, I guess when I saw this
pocket watch on display in a store. So I bought it and wear it. . .
to remind myself of what I learned. Her fingers left his locks for
a brief moment, brushing her necklace as if to confirm that it was
still there. It was, shimmering brightly in the afternoon sun. A
beat of silence. And then a snort. You know, its funny, she
murmured, beginning to smooth his hair once more. People always
assume that I wear my pocket watch because Im dying. You know, to
tick down my remaining minutes alive. I guess thats sort of true.
. . but at the same time, its not. I mean, its not like Im
special. Theyre dying, too. Weve all got a limited time to live,
to dream, to fly. Idiots. . . they think theyre exempted because
theyre young and healthy. But death doesnt play favorites: just
because I know why Im going to die, doesnt mean . . . she
trailed off for a moment, taking a deep breath before locking gazes
with the junior. You understand, right? Were all in the same bo.
. . the same. . . ?
Her voice fell away once again, but this time, for a different
reason. Chrono had reached out gingerly placing his hands on her
cheeks, pulling himself up. . . and brushed their lips
together.
He could feel her swallow harshly, shock and horror painted on her
face. The clock on her chest ticked loudly in their ears.
CChrono. . . ? she managed to stutter after a whole minute of
harsh panting, stiff under his fingertips. Were those tears welling
in her eyes? Eyes suddenly angry and cold. Chrono, you idiot!
Whatre you dont!
He smiled weakly; just as nervous and scaredbut determination
shone in his gaze. As did something else. . . Well, he whispered
echoing her own words with a strange sort of calmness, Id rather
be an idiot that be miserable. And. . . I. . . I. . . we only have
a limited time, right?
Rosette, cheeks on fire, stumbled franticly: clearly as poorly
versed as he in matters like this. But Chrono, Im you
shouldnt! Ddont kiss me! she choked, rapidly blinking; trying
to clear her swimming vision. Just dont!
. . . But. . . Rosette. . . the boy breathed, their faces still
near; coiling her sunny locks around his fingers. If I dont kiss
you, Ill regret it. . . and you cant have any regrets. . . not
even tiny ones. Tenderly tightening his hands in her tresses, he
pierced her with a fervent stare. Do you, Rosette? Do you have any
regrets?
. . . She beamed watery and snuffling, but beamed nonetheless
their noses brushing as she gave a small, jerky shake. No. . .
the blonde giggled silently, blue pools shining; bright. No, I
dont. . . !
And when Chrono kissed her again. . . she kissed him deeply
back.
X
Time is a wheel in constant motion, always moving us along. Tell
me who wants to look back on their years and wonder where those
years have gone?
I Hope You Dance; Sons of the Desert (Lee Ann Womack)
X
