#ikamara bikira story

[ikenbar]

Mr. Love: Ike's Choice CH5 PT11 (end)

Alright! It's the end of Chapter Five! And it only took almost a full year to finish! :D I hope you guys enjoyed! I have chapter six and the one shots all lined up and ready so stay tuned! :)

Warnings: Angst! Loads of it!! The kind that grips at your heart and leaves ya breathless. Oh yeah. That's the stuff. Also the classic cliffhanger that may make you want to kill me! :D

(Chapter Five (Kiro and Youran) Prologue and part one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, and ten can be found here~)

((Please read the author’s note (and the beginning of the story) on chapter one part one if you’re new here :D))

(((And here is the Masterpost to the whole story for anyone who would like to dive into different parts of the adventure!!)))

Chapter Five:

Part Eleven:

“I don’t know.” Kiro worriedly tapped at his plate with his chopsticks, messing with the crumbs still left on his plate, “She’s been in there a while.”

“You think I should check on her?” Youran gripped at her dress from under the table, nervously looking at her plate of uneaten food, “The food is getting cold.”

“No need.” I made them both jump as I approached the table.

“Ike!” They both said, moving to stand.

“I’m fine, I’m fine.” I waved them off and sat back down in my seat, “I’ve just been fighting this awful headache lately. I must just be taking on too much work. I think I’ll take tomorrow off.” 

“Good idea.” Kiro said, sitting back down in his seat, “Wouldn’t want you dying of stress on us.” I chuckled weakly and picked up my chopsticks. A hand appeared from next to me and held my left hand. I looked up and met Youran’s eyes. 

“Are you sure that’s all?” She asked. A calm came over my head, quenching the pain that had been nearly insufferable just moments ago. I booped her nose with my chopsticks.

“You worry too much.” I smiled, pulling my hand from hers, “Some food will probably do me some good. I’ll be healthy in no time.” With no room for discussion, I made my plate.

>>>

We all slumped over, sighing in relief as we finally finished our food. “I’ll get this one.” I pulled my wallet from my pocket. 

“No!” Kiro and Youran yelled. I froze.

“Why? Did the way I ate the food insult you or something?”

“No, it’s nothing like that.” Youran laughed, “You just always pay for things with us. Every time I have coffee with you, I feel like I have to wrench the bill out of your hands!”

“That happened at Souvenir too!” Kiro gestured to me and rolled his eyes, “We hadn’t even gotten our bills yet and she was on it.”

“I don’t think I have ever heard people getting angry over me treating them for a meal.” I scoffed.

“I’ll pay this time.” Youran said, standing up, “Kiro can get it the next time! Then we can rotate!”

“Sounds good!” Kiro beamed. I rolled my eyes and put my wallet back in my back pocket. But Youran’s words echoed in my mind. 

Next time… 

My stomach twisted uncomfortably but I ignored it as Youran giggled. “Then it’s settled!” She beamed, “I’ll be right back!”

“Alright,” I slumped back in my chair, “Thanks, Youri.” Youran smiled sweetly then paused as she thought of something. Before I could ask, her smile blossomed as she gasped. 

“Ike! I keep forgetting to tell you!” She excitedly said, sitting back down in her chair as she tugged on my arm, “I have a nickname for you!” My eyebrow twitched.

“Is that so?” I nonchalantly said, “And what is it?”

“How do you like, 

“Marie?”

An overwhelming peace came over my heart as images of my childhood came crashing to my senses. Images of a field of grass, an old rusty room, but ;more importantly; images of one little girl, running around carelessly, humming a familiar tune.

She was smiling.

“... Ike?” Youran egged, tugging once again on my arm, bringing me back to my senses, “Is Marie ok? I can change it if you-”

“No.” My voice cracked as I quickly cut Youran off. I cleared my throat and sat up, “Marie… Marie’s perfect.” Youran smiled brightly. Before I could stop her, she threw her arms around my neck and squeezed tightly. 

“Yay!!” She cheered, “Marie it is!!” I patted her arm lightly, cringing at my lack of self control. You moron. Accepting a nickname now? Do you realize what you’ve just done?

After a moment, Youran pulled away from me, still smiling. Before I could take anything back, she quickly turned and made her way to the front desk. I watched Youran as she left. The knot in my stomach pushed it’s way up my chest. Maybe I shouldn’t do this…

“You and Youran get along really well.” Kiro spoke softly to me. I kept my eyes on Youran at the front desk as I nodded, “How long have you two known each other?”

“...Almost a month now.”

“Really? It seems like you two have been friends for longer then that.”

“It surprises me too.” I said softly, watching Youran laugh with the cashier over an unheard joke.

“... I’ve never seen you act like this before.”

“Like what?”

“So gentle. Like, Youran makes you... soft.”

The knot in my chest tightened even further. I hummed my response to Kiro as I pulled my eyes from Youran and back to the table. Despite everything that told me not to, I had to do this. If I didn’t, who knows what might happen?... who might get hurt?...

>>

 Kiro, Youran, and I made our way to our cars. Since Youran had lived close by, Youran and Kiro both decided to walk together. I happily accepted it. I don’t think I could drive alone with her…

They waved goodbye to me, walking heavily layered in the foggy night into the city. I waved back, holding a soft smile as I did so. I watched them as they turned and walked away, talking and laughing together. My smile faded gradually as she disappeared, walking far enough away now that she wouldn’t hear if I had called her name. I leaned against my car, watching my hot breath clearly as it steamed from my mouth and disappeared in that cold autumn’s air. I buried my head further in my jacket as doubts swirled in my mind. 

As much as you may think that it may help, it won’t. 

Youran’s the queen. She can take care of herself.

And what if she can’t?

… she’s got Kiro. And Victor. And Gavin. I wouldn’t be surprised if she didn’t already have Lucien too.. She doesn’t... need... me.

I pulled out my phone and opened my contacts. Whatever destiny Black Swan has for us, they can’t have if we aren't together. If all I’ve done is put the people I cared about in danger...  

I stopped scrolling when I hit Youran’s contact info. Her name almost seemed to pop out of the device and etched itself in my mind. I don’t have to be with her to protect her… She will be safe. That brown haired child’s smile flashed in my mind. I sighed, and clicked the ‘edit’ button next to her name. I erased it and wrote “Youri” in it’s place, then hit save. 

Satisfied with the change, 

I blocked her.

>>>

A day had passed since I had cut ties with Youran. I delved into my work, telling the guard that Victor had assigned me to only let Bart, Minor, Victor, and whomever I had an appointment with in my office. No exceptions. This had started off swimmingly, letting me focus on my work while what doubts I held in my head. It all was just fine… until there was a knock on my door that afternoon.

“Come in.” I droned. 

I was slumped over and nose deep in a progress report from one of our filming stations, paying no attention to the person knocking. The door opened then there was a pause. I sighed, “Minor, if this is you telling me that you’re worried again, I swear I’ll pour the rest of this coffee over your head.”

“... It’s not.” The familiar, cold tone, made me jump slightly. I looked up and met Victor’s eyes. He was standing tall by my door, one hand on the doorknob and the other in his pocket, his usual poker face in full effect. I immediately straightened my posture. I hadn’t seen Victor in a month. He had been on a business trip and, me being busy with the show and… Youran... I hadn’t had the chance to talk to him.

“Oh!” I cleared my throat, slightly flustered, standing from my desk politely, “Victor! You’re back from Dubai! I apologize for my behavior. Was there a problem with the report I sent in?" Victor stood in the door for a moment, looking me up and down. Then, he hummed and approached my desk.

“You seem busy.” He picked up one of the files on the desk and inspected it. I quickly snatched it from him.

“Hey, now.” I brushed it off and placed it back down on it’s correct pile, “I’ve got things organized here for a reason. Last thing I need to happen is mix up the Miracle Writer prop list with Show Me the Honey’s. Chaos would break loose.” 

Victor folded his arms. “Have you gone to lunch yet?” He asked seriously.

“Don’t need to. Too busy. I’ll just have a big dinner later. Now,” I looked back up at Victor, already picking up the file I was previously working on, “is there something you needed from me or may I get back to work?” There was a pause as Victor looked at me with a strange look. I didn’t get a chance to ask as Victor reached out and took the file from my hands. I scoffed and tried to take it back. He pulled it away from me, holding it out of my reach. Annoyance flooded my body. Victor arched his eyebrow.

“Someone is here to see you.” He said, tucking the folder under his arm.

“Yeah, I know.” I sighed, folding my arms and pursing my lips, “and he won’t let me do my work.”

“Not me.” Victor moved, “Her.” I looked over to the door and froze. Youran was standing there, timidly waiting and nervously smiling. She wore a gray suit with a pencil skirt that lay just above her knees. Her hair up in a ponytail while light makeup brushed her face. My breath hitched in my throat.

Youran waved at me. I didn’t move. “She told me she tried to visit you but the guard wouldn't let it in anyone without an appointment.” Victor inspected my face as I stared at Youran, “She also said you weren’t answering your phone. So, figuring there was some problem with communication, I let her in.” Victor looked inside the file he took from me then placed it on top of one of the piles on my desk. “I’ll leave you to it.” With that, Victor left the room.

As he walked past Youran, she let herself in, closing the door behind her. “Marie!” She smiled, eyebrows knitted slightly, “I haven’t been able to reach you on your phone for some reason. It might be acting up again.” A sharp pain shot through my chest as Youran sat in front of me.  “I wanted to ask how your headache was doing! I have a scientist friend who gave me some remedies for migraines. And he’s a good source so you should try them!” The pain grew as she talked. Even after I blocked her, avoided her, and made it nearly impossible for her to see me. She still ended up in front of me. Talking as if nothing happened. Blaming everything else but me for the troubles. I looked down at my desk, mixed emotions pushing through my heart. 

She came back to you, They said, This is a sign. Unblock her. She’s only safe with you! She wants to be safe with you!

“Marie?” Youran asked softly, pulling my eyes back to her, “...What’s wrong?” She doesn’t blame you. Just say you lost your phone. You can have her back! She can be with you again! She would be safe again. 

I sighed, tapping my finger lightly on the desk. Youran opened her mouth to speak. I cut her off. “I’m sorry, Youran.” My tone was tactless and cold, “I’m afraid I can’t meet with you right now. If you would like to talk to my assistant about times where I am open, feel free to do so.” 

“‘Youran?’” Youran laughed nervously, “What happened to Youri?” The pain in my chest grew even more intense. I didn’t let it phase me.

“These are my business hours, Youran.” I walked around my desk and to the door, “I must keep this professional.”

“O-okay.” Youran stood up and followed me to the door, “Then, when are you open? Are we still ok for coffee on Monday?” I froze, hand held over the door handle. My heart felt as if it were about to burst in agony. Every fiber of my being screamed to accept her words but I couldn’t. I couldn’t let her mindlessly control me anymore. Even if it was unintentional. 

Keeping my back to her, I said the words I should have said the night before.  The words I hoped to avoid. The words that kept me up every night I was away from her, 

“Youran, I think we should keep things between us purely professional.” 

And, just like that, everything was silent.

Youran was speechless. But not for long.

“Wh-why?” She walked up to me quickly and tugged at my sleeve, bringing my eyes to her, “Was it something I did? Something I said??” She gasped, “Was it because I didn’t let you pay for the meal?? Marie, I didn’t mean to-”

“You didn’t do anything.” I turned around and opened the door to the office. 

“Then why?” Youran panicked, “This is so sudden!”

“Youran.” I tried pulling her hands off of me, but she wouldn’t budge.

“Marie, I need-”

“Youran!” I boomed, shutting Youran up immediately, “...Please. I need to get back to work.” Youran stood there, breathing hurriedly. After a long, tedious moment, she let go of my arm.

Epilogue:

Youran frowned at her phone. The last texts she sent were lingering, unread, on her screen.

Hey! You’re still up for dinner tonight, right?

I’m really in the mood for hotpot. Is that ok with you?

I know you had a shoot today and I don’t want to bother you. Just let me know!

But it had been 2 hours and Ike still hadn’t texted back. Normally, Youran would leave that be but her and Ike had been talking nonstop for a week. They clicked immediately and would spend every moment together. Ike was also super good at making sure Youran knew that she wouldn’t be able to talk and for how long. Ike had also told her that the sights for the shooting had changed, so she had to have service. This behavior was off for her. 

Those unread texts didn’t matter as soon as Youran’s taxi pulled up to the studio and she saw the police cars and fire trucks parked outside of it.

She quickly stepped out of her taxi, quickly payed the driver, then ran to the building. She grabbed the knob to the front door, panic overwhelming her senses. Please let her be ok. Youran repeated over and over in her head, Please don’t let it be Ike.

“Youran.” A voice called from behind her, stopping Youran in her place. She whipped around and saw Gavin approaching her.

“What-..?” They both asked at the same time.

“I-” They tried again. Youran shook her head and ran to the officer’s side.

“What happened?” She hurriedly asked, sparing no time for games. 

“I got a call for a incident in the studio.” Gavin said, a tone of seriousness settling on his tongue, “Apparently, two people fell through the flooring.”

“Why would you be called in for something like that?” Youran asked,  “Can’t the firefighters just get them out?” 

“Foul play has been suspected from events that led up to the incident. One including a mishap with a light. It had fallen right above one of the actors. Upon further inspection by the crew, it seemed as if someone had cut the wire.” 

Youran gasped. “Is the actor ok?!” She asked quickly.

“He was shoved out of the way by one of the employees.” Gavin spoke plainly. Youran sighed in relief, “But when they hit the ground, it fell from under them. Sending them to who knows where.” Youran nodded gravely. She looked behind Gavin and at the many police cars behind him.

“Why are there so many police officers here? Is the actor someone important?”

“Very.” Gavin nodded and folded his arms, “He is a top selling artist. But we aren’t just here for him. The second person who fell through the floor is one of the producers of the company who rented the studio."

Youran gulped, "and… which company would that be?"

"... The Ike ‘n Bar Productions company.” 

Youran’s blood ran cold. "Which producer was it?” She quickly asked.

Gavin’s eyebrows furrowed grimmly, “... Ikamara Bikira.”

Youran gasped and clutched her mouth. A feeling of defenselessness crept in her chest. She had only known Ikamara for a week but she felt so close with her. Ike made her feel so safe and Youran didn’t for a moment question the strength she held. But now, what if she had gotten hurt? What if they fell and she broke something?? What if she was in danger?!

Youran’s knees felt weak. Gavin saw this and reached out just in time to catch her.

“Are you ok?” Gavin asked urgently as Youran clung onto his arms. She didn’t answer, her troubled thoughts becoming too much to bear.

“Do you know if she’ll be ok?” Yourang asked meekly, regretting the question as soon as it left her mouth.

“No.” Gavin answered truthfully, “But I promise we will do whatever we can to bring her back safely.” The panic in Youran’s heart settled slightly. Gavin could save her, just like he did for Youran not long ago. “Come on,” Gavin tugged at Youran’s side, “Let’s go back to the patrol cars. I have some water there you can drink.” Youran nodded and followed Gavin away from the studio.

Gavin stayed with Youran, standing outside of the car as Youran sat inside on the passenger seat, sipping on the water Gavin gave her. Eventually, a police officer walked out of the studio. He was holding something in his hands as he scanned the outside. Finally, he locked eyes with Gavin and immediately made his way over to him. Gavin straightened himself and addressed the officer. 

“Officer.” Gavin said, professionally.

“Officer Gavin.” The officer stopped in front of him and nodded politely, “There is still no sign of the missing victims.” Youran’s panic rose again in her chest, “We watched the cameras back and positively confirmed one of the persons as the superstar, Kiro.” Youran gasped from inside the car. “ We also confirmed the destination where they had fallen. So we pried the floor up and… and we found cement.” Gavin and Youran tensed.

“Is there a way for us to get through it?” Gavin asked.

“We have people on their way with the proper tools. In the meantime,” the officer handed Gavin what he had been holding, “This is the producer’s blazer. She had taken it off before he had fallen through. Her phone and wallet are in it, confirming her id as Ikamara Bikira.” Youran’s grip tightened on her water bottle, causing some of the water to spill onto her lap. She paid no mind to it, merely keeping her attention to the blazer. Gavin nodded to the officer.

“Thank you.” Gavin said in a grave tone. The officer nodded and headed back to the studio. Youran stared at the blazer in Gavin’s hand.

“Gavin?” He turned to her, “... May I?” She reached out her hand. Gavin looked down then, realizing what she meant,  gave her the blazer. Youran reached in the blazer pocket and pulled out her phone. She tried opening it… 

then tried again… 

it remained black. 

Youran sighed, holding her knees to her chest as she stared at the blank screen. What if she was in danger? What if she was stuck and needed help out? Kiro was with her. What if they were both stuck and-

Youran shook her head held the blazer to her face in comfort. Ike’s familiar androgynous scent drifted into her nose. An immediate calm came over Youran, making her close her eyes. Ike’s poker face came to mind. The poker face she held reminded Youran of Victor, but Victor never held the amount of gentleness Ike had. Nor the sweetness in her smile… nor the rush of peace that Ike gave her everytime they touched.

A loud bang came from the side of the building next to the studio, followed by the sound of crumbling stone. Youran instantly perked up, looking towards the noise. Gavin held out a hand, stopping her from getting out of the car. He tugged at the radio on his shoulder and started speaking into it. Youran didn’t hear him though, her focus was on the figure that walked out of the alley. It was a woman wearing tattered, dust ridden clothes. The sleeves of her white shirt were torn to shreds, revealing muscly, heavily scarred, arms. She held her hand up against the sun, blocking the light from her blue eyes as she searched the area. Her hair was messily pulled from her ponytail, strands framed her face as she locked eyes with something in the distance. The sight of her made Youran’s eyes water. 

“Ike.” Youran’s whisper caught in her throat. Gavin lowered his hand as he watched Ike as well, his eyes filling with various emotions. A man came up behind Ike, his hand raised as Ike’s was. He caught Youran’s eyes almost immediately. It was Kiro! Youran jumped put of the car with excitement. Kiro smiled and waved as Youran sighed, relieved they were both ok.

Ike finally caught Youran’s eyes. She looked shocked, mouthing something that Youran couldn’t quite read. Suddenly, Ike keeled over, clutching her head in pain. Kiro was quick to move to help her but hesitation stopped him from touching her. Youran thrust the blazer into Gavin’s hands as she ran over to Ike’s side.

“What happened?!” She quickly asked Kiro the moment she was close enough.

“I-I don’t know!” Kiro folded his arms anxiously, “She wouldn’t tell me!” Youran moved to hold Ike’s hand, but stopped as she saw the scars that wrapped around her arms. Ike hadn’t ever worn anything but long sleeves when she was with Youran and she never questioned it. The scars all looked old but Yoruan didn’t want to accidentally hurt her. So instead, she lightly held her hand to Ike’s cheek. 

Immediately, Ike snapped her hand to her’s, holding it tightly and pulling it from her face. Youran jumped. A yelp held it’s place in her throat as they locked eyes. 

Ike’s eyes had changed from their normal, caribbean blue to a dark, crimson red.

They bore a hole into Youran, sending a sense of danger and familiarity crashing into the dark parts of her mind. Sounds that sounded far away to her came reeling into her ears. Sounds of glass smashing, people yelling, sirens going off, and... screaming.

End of Chapter Five:

Next post coming soon~

[ikenbar]

Mr. Love: Ike’s Choice Masterpost

Hey! I figured this would be easier to keep track of Ikamara’s Story instead of posting it all on the first chapter. If you are new here, Welcome!! Feel free to browse my work but I would suggest reading the Author’s Note on Chapter one Part one before doing anything. It tells you what you need to know about the story, when I post (starting again on May 5th), and why I am writing this! I hope you give my story a chance and fall in love with the characters as I have! Ike’s story is far from over so strap yourselves in for one heck of a ride!! :D

Remember, you are loved and cared about more then you know!

Thank you for your constant support!

Ike ‘n Bar Productions

Chapter One (Intro to characters):

Parts one, two, three, four, five, six, and seven here :)

Chapter Two (Gavin): 

Prologue and parts one, two, three, four, five, and six, seven, eight, nine, ten, and eleven here :D

Chapter Three (Lucien and Victor):

Prologue and part one and parts two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, and twelve here :O

Chapter Four (Victor and Gavin): 

Prologue, part one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, and twelve here >:)

Chapter Five (Kiro and Youran): 

Prologue and part one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, and eleven coming soon!! :D

Ikamara One Shots: 

St. Richards, Mp3, and Soccer Practice here B)

Dates: 

Kiro: Costume Shop :D

Gavin: ???

Victor: ???

Lucien: ???

[ikenbar]

Hello ike, plz accept tuis I can't even werite

Fr tho I'm really glad to finallly see ike and bart!

I, too, am proud of you! Lol💕

(Fr thank you for believing in me :'))

((Adri is turning out p good too ;)))

(((Open for better quality)))

[ikenbar]

Have this drawing of what I saw happening in Chapter 3, Part twelve of my fanfiction, Mr Love: Ike's choice!!

If you're interested in reading it, you can do so here!

I figured I should draw a scene from it (since I've been writing it for a year now with not much art lol) and this scene always stood out to me! So here we are!

I've been drawing Ike all soft. That's not right. I should change that...

[ikenbar]

@banenaz, I felt this on a whole new level-

[ikenbar]

@banenaz

No but this SENDS ME-

CAUSE LIKE JUST IMAGININGING VICTOR IN HIS CAR LIKE:

WHILE IKE AND ADRI ARE FIGHTING FOR THEIR LIFE MAKES ME LAUGH SO HARD-

[ikenbar]

Mr Love: Ike’s Choice CH 5 PT 1

Author’s Note:

Chapter five baby!! This is gonna be a fun one!! It is chock-full of fluff, angst, adventure, and thickening plot!! Only the best for Ikamara’s story B) I plan on taking lines straight from the game in this story. Normally I would make annotations but, after rereading the parts I have done that with, I have noticed that they can distract from the story. And because I have a lot of lines from the game in the coming chapters, I am just going to put the reference to the stages in the warning. If you have a problem with this, send me a message! Though I do write Ikamara’s story for myself, I also want to make the experience as pleasurable for any one reading as possible.

Thank you so much for the love and support for my story! Please read the author’s note (and the beginning of the story) on chapter one part one if you’re new here and would like to be familiar with the story!! :D

Enjoy Chapter Five!! :D

- Ike ‘n Bar Productions

Warnings: Words taken directly from Stage 8-1 from the game Mr. Love: A Queen’s Choice, there is also FLUFF!!!, sad children, ~✨🌈Gayness🌈✨~, and plot development that makes you  beg for more but are sadly left on yet aNOTHER cliffhanger :D

Prologue:

>>

The man in the white lab coat walked behind Marie as they made their way back down that familiarly dank hallway. They were quiet but that didn’t mean Marie would have it any other way. From all the medical talk and strange languages they spoke, silence seemed like the only thing she could understand anymore. 

They came to a stop in front of a door. He opened it and gestured for Marie to go in. She timidly did so, allowing him to close it shut behind her and lock it. It was a simple room with two beds. Not much there but it was enough. 

In one of the beds sat Marie’s roommate, and best friend. Normally the girl would be smiling and greet Marie with open arms, but today, she was just sitting on the bed, crying. Immediately, Marie ran to her side.

“What’s wrong?” Marie’s squeaky voice made the girl jump. She hurriedly wiped her eyes.

“Nothing.” The girl mumbled.

“Oh come on.” Marie jumped onto the bed and next to the girl, “You can’t say that right after wiping away tears.”

“...it’s just that.” The girl slowly began, “...I’m tired of the testing. I’d just wish they’d stop pricking us with those needles. You’re so lucky. Your skin is so thick, you don’t need needles.”

“Nah, I still get the needles.” Marie kicked her feet over the bed and kept her eyes on the ground, “I just have a special kind that's bigger.” The girl sighed and leaned on her shoulder.

“I just feel so…” The girl started, gesturing her hands uselessly, “... not safe.” Marie tensed slightly.

“You shouldn’t.” She said, making the girl look up at her, “You’ve got me! I will always protect you.” The girl smiled weakly.

“You promise?” She asked. Marie nodded seriously as she drew an ‘x’ on over her heart.

“Cross my heart.” She smiled. The girl sat up and threw her arms around Marie. Marie reciprocated the hug, making the girl laugh. The girls held their hug, indulging in the security of it.

“When we get out,” The girl said softly, “and we are no longer in danger, will you still protect me?" Marie held the little girl closer to her.

“Youri,” Marie said the girl’s name seriously, “There won’t be a moment where I will leave your side.”

>>

Chapter five:

Part one:

>>

I waited anxiously in my seat, tapping the mug of coffee in my hand. Youran and I had spent the past week talking and getting to know each other. In fact, there wasn't a day that had passed that we didn't talk. It surprised me how easy it was to talk with her. It was like we had clicked, becoming friends almost instantly. Almost as if we had already been friends before.

 I had even told Youran about my family. Though I addressed them as my biological family instead of my foster family. I didn’t want her asking questions about my life as a foster child. Not because I didn’t want to answer them but because I knew that, if she asked, I would tell her everything.

 It was strange to me. Never in my life had I been so open to anyone like that. It was almost suspicious. But every time I spoke to Youran, the suspicions left my mind. I would get this immense calm all over my body. It was something I had never experienced before. Something only she could give me.

But the suspicions and doubts were back. I met this woman while I'm being targeted and I just trusted her?! Just like that?! Plus, wasn't it weird that I feel so strange around her? Not to mention I had dreams about her right before meeting her! Could she have been someone from my past? Someone that wants me dead? One thing was for sure, waiting for her was a dumb idea. Especially if it meant potentially getting hurt. I still hadn't healed fully from Montu's attack last week. Waiting there like a sitting duck was a terrible way to get killed.

As I moved to stand from my seat, a chime came from the front door, making me look up. Youran pushed through the door, clearly in distress. Her hair was tied in a loose ponytail that fell just above a vibrant sundress that brought out her light brown eyes. She seemed to have put on some light makeup as well, my eyes being drawn to her flushed cheeks and glossy lips.

 Panting slightly, Youran scanned the café until her eyes landed on mine. She smiled brightly. And, just like that, my suspicions vanished once again as that calm hit me like a truck. She came running over to me. "Ike!" Youran threw her arms around me, nearly toppling me over, "I hope you weren’t waiting long! I am so sorry I'm late. I slept through my alarm."

“It’s no problem.” I patted her head gently, “It happens. Besides, I... just got here. So you’re fine.”

“Great!” Youran jumped back and clapped her hands together, “Give me one second to order a drink then we can start hanging out!” I smiled and nodded. Hanging out? What are we, teenagers… she sure made me feel that way. 

Youran smile brightened in return. She turned on her heel and hurried to the front counter. I watched her as she left. She looked cute with her hair up like-

I shook my head and dropped that stupid absent minded smile. What am I doing? Wasn’t I about to leave?! I cursed under my breath and held a hand up to my mouth. She did it to me again! How does she just change me like that? There has got to be a malice reason behind it…

After a moment’s hesitation, I stole another glance at Youran. She was looking at the menu intently, tapping her chin with her finger thoughtfully.

… Well... since I'm already here…

I took my seat again, sighing as I picked up my now cold, and nearly empty, cup of coffee. After waiting a minute longer, Youran came running back to the table. “Ok!” She said, taking a seat in front of me, “How are you?”

She seems so happy to see me...

“I’m good.” I smiled, “How are you?”

“I’m great!” She giggled, “Having coffee together was such a great idea! I feel like we only know each other through a phone screen.” I hummed in agreement as a barista walked over to us.

“Refill, mam?” She asked me politely. I looked at Youran.

“... Yeah.” I sighed, lifting my cup to her, “Fill ‘er up.” The barista complied. Once she had left, I sparked a conversation, "How’s the company, Youran?”

“Excellent thanks to your help.” Youran sighed, “Victor had little to nothing to correct from the report, all thanks to your edits. Of course, he guessed almost immediately that you had been the reason behind it.”

“Yeah, Victor’s smart like that.” I sighed, spinning my newly filled cup of coffee absentmindedly.

“What about you?” Youran leaned on the table and looked at me expectantly, “How’s Ike ‘n Bar Productions?”

“Not bad. We actually start filming a new tv show today. Bart’s already heading over now to scope it out.”

“Ooo! Nice! Who’s the cast?” Youran egged.

“Nope.” I deadpanned, “Not revealing anything until it airs.” I looked up from my cup and caught Youran glaring at me. She had her cheeks puffed out and her bottom lip over lapping the top one. I smirked. She was so cute when she was angry. “Alright, alright. You can come to the viewing party.”

“Really??” Youran beamed, making the pout I saw a distant memory.

“Yeah.” I sighed,  “Why not?” Youran cheered and clapped her hands, sending a warm feeling in my chest.

“Oh! But watch out! You may not be able to get through the production so easily!” Youran’s voice sounded like she was telling a ghost story. She added her fingers waving in the air for extra spooky flavor. I arched my eyebrow.

“What makes you say that?” I asked, amused by her childish behavior. Youran leaned forward slightly and spoke in a harsh whisper, “Did you hear about that hacker that has been attacking the web?” My brows furrowed slightly. A widespread internet paralysis broke out in Loveland that week. It affected all websites in the city. On every homepage there was a signature by a hacker named ‘Key.’ “Apparently, there was word of the hacker affecting cell phones as well.” Youran continued, “Hacking into your phone and stealing emails and personal information.” I rolled my eyes.

“Hogwash.” I sighed, “It’s just people speculating and stirring up a commotion. Don’t think about it too much.” Youran nodded and took a sip from her drink. Though she agreed with me, I could still see worry knitted in her eyebrows. I instinctively reached out and brushed them. Youran looked at me surprised. I felt my face flush as I quickly retracted my hand. 

“Sorry.” I stammered, covering my face with my hand, “You just… You have nothing to worry about. So you shouldn’t hold your face like that.”

“I don’t?” Youran asked, innocently.

“Of course not.” I said simply, avoiding eye contact and looking back into my cup, “Like I said, this is all speculation. This ‘Key’ is probably trying to make a name for himself. Pushing however hard he can to get people to notice him. You’ll be ok.”

“...And ...If I’m not?” Youran asked sheepishly.

“I’ll protect you.”

 I froze. Those words fell from my mouth without me realizing it. They came so easily to me. As if I had said it a million times to her before...

Youran placed a hand on top of mine. I looked up at her. She was smiling sweetly at me.

“Thank you.” She said, softly. Her eyes sparkled, showing me she meant her thanks. I looked down. Her hands are so cold… I twisted my hand to hold Youran’s. “... Did you get your nails done?” I asked, changing the subject.

“Yeah!” Youran shone brightly as she leaned forward, “I had them draw little pandas on them! Aren’t they cute??”

“Adorable.” I ran my thumb over her nails gently, a soft smile settling on my face, “Adri has been wanting to get her nails done. You’ll have to tell me the name of the place you went to.”

“Oh! How is Adri doing?” Youran asked, pulling her hand away to clap her hands together, “Wasn’t today her first day at her new highschool?” I opened my mouth but was cut off by a buzzing that came from my blazer pocket. I pulled out my phone and looked at the collar ID. Ho boy. “ Speak of the devil.” I looked up to Youran, “Do you mind?” She shook her head and smiled politely. I thanked her and stood up.. after making sure I was out of earshot, I answered the call.

“Speaking.” I said resoundly.

“Hello?” The principal of Loveland Lake High, Mr. Olson answered seriously. He still sounded the same as he did when I attended that school, if not a little more warily, “Is this Ike?”

“What did Sam do now?” I sighed, rubbing the bridge of my nose.

Mr. Olson chuckled, “Ah, about that. It isn’t Sam I’m calling for this time. It’s Adrienne.” I froze.

“What happened?”

“Our new student was called to my office for cursing at her teacher and starting a riot in the classroom.” I groaned, “She has been suspended starting immediately. I tried calling Maria and Bart but neither of them picked up.”

“Maria is at a doctor’s appointment for Lola and Bart is at a shoot that I have to meet him at in less than an hour.” I checked my watch. “Are you sure Adri has to start today? Can’t she just sit in the corner and think about what she has done?”

“I’m afraid not.” Mr. Olson chuckled. I sighed and held my face in my hand.

“...fine. I’ll be over as soon as I can.”

“Thank you, Ike. I’m sorry for the inconvenience.”

“Don’t be. It wasn’t your fault. Adri on the other hand will be receiving a solid talking to that may make her into a saint…. I’ll see you soon. Goodbye.” I hung up the phone and growled to myself as I walked back into the cafe. “I’m afraid I’ll have to go.” I said as I approached Youran, “I have to go pick up my sister early from school.”

“Oh no.” Youran’s smile fell into a look of worry, “Is everything ok?”

“Yeah.” I grumbled, stretching my jaw to stop it from clenching, “My sister is just a jerk to the underpaid.” I sighed, “The school is fifteen minutes away. By the time I pick her up and take her home, I’ll have to go to a shoot. I’m really sorry.” Youran shook her head and smiled at me.

“It’s nothing you couldn’t help. I understand.” She said this with a sweet smile but there was no denying the disappointment behind her eyes. I clenched my hands into fists inside my pockets. It felt as if I had a string attached to my chest that prevented me from just leaving Youran there, making it nearly impossible to leave her side.

“... Do you have plans for dinner tonight?” Youran looked shocked by my sudden question.

“No!” She answered quickly.

“Good. Don’t make any. We can finish chatting then. And it’ll be on me. To make up for bailing today.”

“But I was late!” Youran quickly jumped to stop me, “I’ll pay!”

“I really didn’t care that you were late. I can-”

“But I do!” Youran puffed out her cheeks stubbornly. Though normally, the stubbornness of others angered me, she still somehow pulled a smile out of me.

 “Fine. You can give me a ride there to make up for your tardiness. How does that sound?” I asked, lightly arching my brows. Youran nodded, her smile returning. “Good. I’ll text you the location of the shoot and you can pick me up from there.”

“Right!” Youran said, determinately. 

“See you tonight then.” I said. I hesitated a moment, then gave her a quick pat on the head. Youran giggled, bringing a sharp blush to my cheeks. Not willing to let her see it, I quickly started walking to the door.

“See you!” She said, waving to me as I left. I waved back as I pushed through the door, making the chimes tinkle melodiously. I felt a warm smile spread across my cheeks as I walked to the car. Youran was so sweet and caring to me. It was a kind of warmth I hadn’t felt since... My smile fell slightly. 

… I have never felt that kind of sweetness before... 

Why did it seem so familiar?

(Next)

[ikenbar]

Once I started I couldn't stop-

THIS IS IKAMARA BIKIRA!!! MY MLQC OC!

(Ft. Her foster father and co-head, Bart)

Man it only took me a full year of writing about her to finally see her but here she is!! My self independent, mentally tortured, brute of an evolver oc!! :D

If you are interested in reading her story, you can do so here!

I'm really glad the sketches captured her so well. Now to draw a fully fledged drawing!...with outline!... and color.... and shading/highlighting.... ho boy-

[ikenbar]

Mr. Love: Ike’s Choice CH4 PT8

aaaand we back in the angst. Don’t worry about sitting pretty in it tho. expect those fluffy moments to hit soon B)

Warnings: Angst, heated arguments, talk of death; explosions; and harsh flashbacks, big swear for the swear jar, mad twists, Adri being an OG, the thickening of some epic plot, and a cliffhanger leaving you begging for more >:D

(Chapter Four (Victor and Gavin) Prologue, and part one, two, three, four, five, six, and seven can be found here!)

Please read the author’s note (and the beginning of the story) on chapter one part one if you’re new here :D

And an additional note in a previous part of chapter four part three here! (I promise these notes are important)

Chapter four:

Part eight:

Victor leaned back, clearly thrown off guard by my words. I sat up straight and pulled my hands from Victor’s. “I need to get back to work.” I said, moving to stand. Victor, coming to his senses, quickly stood and pushed me back down.

“No, you’re not.” He boomed, standing over me, giving me no space to try and stand again, “And we are going to the police after work.”

“No, I’m not!” I said with the same determination before. I pushed Victor roughly away from me. He stumbled back enough to give me space to get back onto my feet. I threw my plate of food onto the coffee table half-hazardly as I glared at Victor with determination, “That guy is mine! I will be the one who takes him down. So no, I’m not going to the police. And neither are you.”

“Is that a threat?” Victor growled and he walked back up to me. He towered over me, obviously trying to intimidate me. I merely looked up at him, a cocky grin slinking onto my face. 

“Nope!” I chimed, folding my arms proudly, “It’s your word against mine, Victor, and all you know is what I’ve told you. Sure you can go to the police with speculation, but you have no evidence to support your claim. I’d know. I also have no evidence.”

“You have got to be kidding me!” Victor rolled his eyes, “Ike, this is way over your head!! Do you have one good reason to keep this to yourself?!”

“Yes.”

“Oh really?! What is it then?!”

“… it is my business. Not your own."

"Ike-"

"Now if you'll excuse me," I moved to walk away but Victor stopped me. He grabbed my arms and held me steady in front of him, forcing me to face him. I looked up and glared at him.

"One reason, Ikamara." Victor's tone had changed dramatically. I relaxed my glare, "Tell me one reason we shouldn't go to the police and I'll drop it." I froze. Every part of me screamed to keep pushing Victor away, to protect him from getting too close and knowing too much. But, after one last look in his pleading eyes, I knew that he wouldn’t let me get away with pushing him off any longer.

I closed my eyes and sighed, "... he killed my friend.”

Victor's fingers twitched around my arms. 

I twisted myself from his grip as I recalled the events of that horrible day. “... We were following a lead into a warehouse. There was a secret room… a bomb… an explosion… I had to bring him back to life… with my own bare hands." My voice cracked. That image of Gavin’s lifeless body held form in front of my eyes, "It’s only a matter of time until it happens again… and…” I paused. Then, without hesitation, I looked unfalteringly up at Victor, locking eyes with him, “It’s not going to be you. Not if I can help it.” Victor looked down at me, eyes flooded with those familiar undecipherable emotions. 

Before he could say anything, my eyes flickered next to him, where they landed on a fourteen year old boy staring at his phone. My face suddenly felt like it had been set on fire. It was then that I became very aware how very not alone Victor and I were.

I jumped back from Victor and looked around the room, preparing rounds of lies and explanations in my head… 

but I stopped.

No one was moving. They were all posed in one motion, all looking over at Bart, who hadn’t moved an inch from his position on the floor. Not even Lola had wavered from where I had seen her last, with her small hand posed over Bart's knee. 

No one was moving. No one was breathing. Everyone was frozen. 

Almost like they were stuck in time.

I looked back at Victor in disbelief. He was watching me, eyebrow arched and hands in his pants pockets. He looked as calm and stoic as ever… 

… As if he knew exactly what was happening. 

My disbelief sunk into curiosity was I studied him, questions posed on my tongue. Victor merely sighed as a small smirk pushed up his cheeks. “Dummy.” He muttered, moving to sit back down on the floor. I opened my mouth. 

Just then the room snapped back to life. Bart groaned as he reached over and rubbed the baby Lola’s head. She giggled and fell onto his knee, slobbering on his suit pants. “Ah that’s probably how that anonymous tip got out.” Bart lamented, as if he was continuing where he had left off, “The reporters coming here is my fault.”

“Oh, Bartholomew.” Chris sighed, making me snap my head to face him, “You’ve got to learn how to keep your mouth shut! It’s gonna be the death of you! Or more, in this case, Ikie!... Ike?” Chris finally looked up at me. His perfect smile wavered slightly, “Something wrong?” I hesitated. Had they not heard a word of what Victor and I talked about? I literally said I was being targeted! Did… no one care?

I stole a quick glance at Victor. He was sitting casually at the end of the coffee table, eating his food once again as if nothing happened. I narrowed my eyes.

“... No.” I said, straightening my expression and posture, “I… Bart, what did you mean by anonymous tip?” Bart looked up at me through the gaps in his fingers.

“Hm? Oh I called our inside in the media.” Bart replied, sitting up, “She said that she got a call telling her about what happened. All the way down to the place your office was. It was because of my big mouth, Ike. I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t worry about it.” I waved Bart off limply, slightly lost in thought, “Did she say whether or not this person was male or female?”

“No. She said that they used a voice modulator.” Bart said, intrigue and blind curiosity dripping from his tongue, “One that made their voice seem lower and more mechanic. Whoever it was, they really didn’t want to be found out.” I hummed and furrowed my brows. 

Who would modulate their voice for an anonymous tip?

“Evie, dear.” Maria said from behind me, making me turn to face her, "Are you sure everything is alright? You look worried.”

“Yeah.” I said slowly, “I need to get back to work. Thank you for the meal.”

“But, you’ve still got some food left!” Sam chuckled gesturing to my half empty plate.

“I’ll heat it up during my next break.” I moved past the couch and away from the group, “Besides, I have a lot I need to do before I go home today.”

“Wait, Ike!” Bart quickly scooped up Lola and stood up from the floor, “I wanted to talk to you about that. I don’t think you should take your bike home today.”

“What?” I snapped my head around.

“At least not until this whole thing blows over.” He said, throwing his free hand up defensively as he walked over to me, “I don’t want anything happening to you while on the road. That thing is a death wish as it is. Then you throw in some reckless reporters-”

“And someone will aggressively write a story about my driving? ” I arched my eyebrow, “I’ve been driving that bike for years, Bart. I’ll be alright.”

“You could still get hurt!” Maria spoke up from the couch, “You never know what these people would do to get a story.”

“Maria, I’ll be fine.” I rolled my eyes and turned back to my desk, “I can take care of myse-”

“Oh. my. GOSH!!” Adri shouted from her place on the couch, causing everyone to jump. She glared at me sinisterly. “You drive a two wheel drive that has had more accidents than the average vehicle! Not only that but you just got out of the hospital! Do you really want to go back in?!?” Everyone in the room was frozen in place, speechless because of Adri’s sudden outburst. Adri, reading the room, breathed a loaded sigh, “All they are asking you to do is get another ride.” She continued, arching her eyebrow and glaring at me, “That’s all! Is that really too much to fucking ask?”

“Swear jar.” Ashton spoke up for the first time that day. Adri whipped her head around and glared at him. I hesitated, looking around the room. Nearly everyone’s eyes were on me, waiting for my answer. I could read the same emotion on each of their faces. 

It was an emotion I was tired of seeing.

I sighed. “I need to ride the bike home-but,” I said quickly before anyone could interrupt me, “I'll get someone to pick me up and drop me off at work starting tomorrow. Minor, would you-”

“I’ll take you.” A cool voice came from the coffee table, making all of us turn to face it. Victor stood up, empty plate in hand and determination on his face. I looked at him in disbelief. 

“N-no. You’ve done enough alre-”

“It wouldn’t be out of my way.” Victor said simply, walking to the trash can beside his desk to dispose of his plate, “I drive by your complex on the way home anyway.” I opened my mouth to argue more but Victor held up a hand, “If you are really concerned about the trouble, I’ll add the gas money to your investment fund.” I shut my mouth and glared at him. There it is again. The investment.

“Yes!” Bart pointed at Victor happily, “Let’s do that!”

“Bart-” I started, trying to regain control of the situation.

“It’s settled then!” Maria said, standing from the couch and clapping her hands, “Ike will ride with Victor from now on!”

“Hold on!” I tried again, but was interrupted once again.

“Wait does this mean Victor has to pick me up from school too?!” Sam asked with both excitement and worry.

“I’ll send a driver to pick you up.” Victor said, walking back to his desk.

“Sweet! My own personal driver!” Sam beamed, looking at me for approval. I arched my eyebrow. Sam’s smile plummeted. “...I-I mean,” He quickly said, throwing his hands up, “Not that you aren’t a better personal driver! I mean one outside of the family! I-I bet this driver has nothing on you, Ike!... Evie?” Sam smiled at me innocently. I rolled my eyes and looked over to Victor. He was also looking at Sam with a complacent expression. Sensing my stare, he turned to face me.

“There’s no getting out of this, is there?” I asked dully.

“No.” Victor, Bart, Maria, Adri, and Sam said at once. I sighed and turned back to my desk, where I sat in the chair and ran my face through my hands. 

“I still don’t like the idea of you going out alone tonight.” Bart said uneasily. I pulled my hands down my face and looked over to him.

“I can go with her!” Adri said, raising her hand from the couch. Maria glared at her.

“You have school.” She said in her menacing motherly tone.

“Didn’t you hear?” Adri said, flashing a devious grin, “Today is a half day! I was going to hang out with friends after school but I’ll just spend the night with my favorite sister instead!” Bart and Maria glared at their newest foster daughter in silence.

“...I’m too worried for Ike’s safety to double check that.” Bart finally said, keeping his squinty eyes on Adri. Maria turned to me.

“Would you be ok with Adri spending the night?” She asked sweetly. I looked back at Adri. She grinned at me and winked. I hesitated. She obviously had something planned. But what? What could I have for her? Maybe she planned on ditching me to hang out with her friends? But then why would she be so persistent in getting me a ride home? And why was she so angry before? What caused her attitude to change so quickly like that… There really was only one way to find out.

“Sure.” I said, turning to face my computer, “but I warn you, Adri, my life at home isn’t very exciting.”

“I’ll be the judge of that.” Adri chimed.

“I’ll follow Ike home and be sure she is safe.” Victor said, standing from his place at his desk. He put his hands in his pockets and looked over to me. I looked away disgruntledly. 

“Can I come?!” Sam asked hopefully, looking between Bart and Maria.

“You have soccer practice today, mister.” Maria scrubbed his head roughly. Sam whined but didn’t say anymore. Maria smiled and looked over to Victor. “I’ll give you a copy of the kids’ schedules. Be sure to send me the bill.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Victor waved his hand dismissively, “I’ve got it handled.” I rolled my eyes. He sure was wasting a lot of money just to prove a point.

“Then it’s settled!” Bart clapped, “Adri will go home with Evie today and Victor will follow. Then he will take her to and from work until everything is cleared up! Great! Now! Let’s finish eating in my office and let Ike and Victor get back to work. Say goodbye to Ike kids!” Bart jogged happily to the coffee table and started packing the food back into the bags. Everyone complied to his demands and scattered thank yous and goodbyes came from various voices in the room. I stood up as Sam came running up to me. He jumped up and gave me a big hug.

“Don’t worry.” He whispered in my ear, “I told Adri I called dibs on the next sleepover.”

“Noted.” I said as I ruffled his hair. Sam laughed and pulled away from me, just in time for Chris to replace him. He lifted me up in the air and rocked me back and forth, all while squeezing the life out of me.

“Be safe, Ikie!” He said in between the swings. 

“You too.” I coughed, giving him a few pats on the back, for it was all I could do in that situation. Chris dropped me and walked away. I just barely had time to breathe as Adri approached me.

“Sister!” She said, holding her arms out wide. I winced slightly but that didn’t stop Adri from wrapping her arms around my neck. She pulled me close to her, letting her head rest next to my ear. I hugged her back, patting her lightly on the shoulder.

"I can't wait for tonight!” Adri whispered into my ear as she rubbed my back slightly, “Especially since you're gonna tell me all about that pretty little target on your back.”

All my blood pooled to my feet.

“H-how…” I stammered.

“What, you think your little conversation with Victor was left unheard?” Adri chimed, “‘Do you really think it will stop the man who will do anything to see me dead?!’ ‘He sent a bomb through my ceiling!’ ‘It’s my word against yours!’ Really, Ike, it’s like you’re trying not to hide it. Though it does surprise me that I was seemingly the last person to know.” I tightened my arms around Adri’s body.

“This stays between us.” I spoke seriously and coldly, “Understand? Not a word to Bart and Maria.”

“Geez, alright!” Adri gasped as she tapped my back, “I promise I won’t say anything!” I eased my grip and pulled away from Adri. She keeled over, rubbing her stomach and breathing deeply. I ignored her show as I looked over to Bart and Maria.

They were talking merrily to Victor as if there was absolutely nothing to worry about. I furrowed my eyebrows. I had said I was being targeted when I was with Victor so, why aren’t they talking about it? Why aren’t they worried? If Adri heard the conversation then shouldn’t they have as well? Just what happened when Victor and I were talking?

“Hey,” Adri patted my head, forcing my attention to her, “You can’t keep your thoughts to yourself anymore. You’ve gotta tell me what you are thinking or I will just be someone with valuable information! You wouldn’t want that just walking around willy nilly, right?” Adri grinned mischievously.

“Well” My voice fell an octave as I folded my arms and arched my brows, “there is another way I could make sure that information doesn’t leak…” Adri’s grin quickly fell from her face. I rolled my eyes. “Don’t worry, kid.” I said, patting Adri on her shoulder, “After all, I’m your favorite sister.”

“How can you make that sound so menacing and kind at the same time?” Adri chuckled nervously. I winked at her before ushering her forward, leaving room for the rest of our family to say their goodbyes.

>>>

Once everyone had left, Victor and I sat quietly at our desks. I tapped my pen on my desk, lost in thought.

“So,” Victor said without looking up from his computer, “You’re an evolver.”

My pen fell from my hand.

I tried to speak but my words had gotten lodged in my throat. How could he have known?! Was it the way I pushed him to the ground?! I didn’t use that much power. Maybe I miss judge my evol more than I’d like to admit.

“I had my assumptions but,” Victor continued in between my silence, “I wasn’t completely certain. But now, it’s quite clear why you insist on taking care of yourself.”

“H-how?” I managed to stutter, turning to look at Victor. Victor scoffed as he turned to me

“Are you that slow? You really didn’t notice anything strange during our conversation earlier?”

My eyes widened, “So I wasn’t imagining that!... That was you?” Victor gave me a look that I received far too often. 

“What do you think?”

“So you’re an evolver too? Wait, so your evol is to freeze people in place?”

“Dummy.” Victor sighed as he turned back to his work, “I can control time.”

“Can people still hear us when you do that?”

“No.”

“...what?”

“Do you really think I would start that kind of a conversation in front of your parents?” Victor retorted, turning back to me, “Let alone your siblings?”

“Wait.” I shook my head and held up my hands, “You’re saying no one else could have heard our conversation?”

“No.” Victor turned back to his computer, “Not unless they were also evolvers.”

“... what?”

“They had to have been an evolver to have heard our conversation.”

My heart stopped.

Victor, noticing my change in attitude, turned back to me. “What is it?” He asked, seriousness easing back into his tone. I opened my mouth.

 A knock came from the door. “Sorry, ignore me.” Adri came into the room, looking down at her phone, “Maria forgot her diaper bag so I… came… to” Adri looked up from her phone to see Victor and me staring at her, “... Unless you guys have some sort of emotional connection to it. Then I can tell her it wasn’t there-”

“N-no.” I cleared my throat and gestured to the sitting area, “Go ahead.” After a moment of confused silence, Adri did as I said and continued walking into the room. I started mindlessly tapping my pen on the desk as I watched Adri, thinking over everything Victor had just said.

“...Oh, and Adri?”

“Hm?” Adri hummed.

“I’m excited to have you over tonight.”

“Oh really?” Adri sang, picking up the bag and turning to look at me.

“Yeah.” I nodded and stopped tapping my pen, “I get the feeling we have a lot of bonding to do.”

(Next)

[ikenbar]

GUYS

GUYS IM DOING IT

ITS WORKING!!! ITS WORKINGGGG

[ikenbar]

Mr. Love: Ike’s Choice Ch4 PT3

Quick Author’s note!!

I am currently revising the story of Chapter four. I was reading it over and realized I didn’t quite capture Victor like he is in the game. So I’m making some adjustments to the story. In doing so I may be late to some uploads. I ask you please to be patient with me. I love that I have fans who are intrigued in Ike’s story. Honestly it’s what wakes me up in the morning! And I want to release the best content for you to enjoy. 

Thank you all so much for your patience and I hope you enjoy Ikamara’s story!!

~Ike ‘n Bar Productions

Warnings: Some nice juicy Victor angst, also fluff, and foreshadowing, and backstory (oh my!), and don’t forget the good ol’ cliffhangers! :D

Some of the lines were taken from the game Mr. Love: A Queen’s Choice.  In this case, it was taken from Chapter ten. :)

(Chapter Four (Victor and Gavin) Prologue, and part one, and two can be found here!)

Please read the author’s note (and the beginning of the story) on chapter one part one if you’re new here :D

Chapter four:

Part three:

Victor had come back. He was hanging his coat on the coat rack, eyeing me carefully. I muted the tv and addressed him, “It’s nothing. I was just thinking. What are you doing back here so late?”

“I told you I was coming back, didn’t I?” Victor walked over to the desk at the corner of the room, “Didn’t the doctor tell you to keep your voice in a whisper?”

“The doctor doesn’t have to know.” I grumbled mostly to myself, “I’m fine. It doesn’t hurt. Anyway, didn’t you just get off from work? Don’t you want to be home?”

“Why are you so concerned?” Victor picked up the briefcase that was hidden underneath the desk as he eyed me, “Are you trying to get me to leave?” 

“No.” I said absentmindedly, “Just curious.” Victor arched his eyebrow but said nothing more as he opened his briefcase. He started placing the folders and papers delicately inside. “How are you feeling?" Victor asked casually, keeping most of his focus on packing his things, "How is your arm?”

“I’m perfect!” I dramatically answered, “I can speak just fine and I can’t even feel any pain in my arm! I bet I don’t even need to be here for five days! I should be released tonight!”

Victor hummed, “Nice try.”

I grunted and sank in my bed. Silence droned through the room. The only sound that could be heard was by Victor as he shuffled around the papers at his desk. But soon, even that sound stopped. I looked over just as Victor picked up the bowl. I sat up in the bed and opened my mouth to speak.

“Where did you get this spoon?” Victor unknowingly interrupted, holding up the lion headed spoon by the hilt for me to see. I closed my mouth.

“I was going to ask you the same-” I choked on my words, “... Wait the spoon? Why the spoon?”

“... It looks handmade.” Victor said, looking at the lion’s head closely. “It’s… an interesting design.”

“... I don’t know.” I answered honestly, “We’ve had that spoon for as long as I remember. Why do you have Maria’s bowl?”

Victor eyed me, “...Maria, brought it in when she first came to visit. Bart had told her that I was the one… looking after you. She wanted to show her appreciation so she made pudding and gave it to me in this bowl... She also made sure to mention it was your recipe.” I rolled my eyes. That pudding had always been her favorite thing that I made. She never hesitated to seize the opportunity to brag about it. “Maria said this spoon was deemed the special spoon in her house and that she felt as if I deserved it. What do mean by ‘as long as you remember?’” 

I arched my eyebrow. "Why are you so interested in my spoon?"

"Just curious." Victor teased. I looked at him a moment longer then sighed and looked away from Victor. Faint memories clouded my thoughts.

 “I’ve had that specific spoon with me since I was a kid." I answered honestly, "I've brought it with me from foster house to foster house. I don’t know when or how I got it but, for some reason, I feel connected to it. Like I had it for a reason. It’s almost as if I needed to return it to someone or something. Maria calls it the special spoon because I’ve kept it with me for so long. She saw it as a right of passage to her when I let her add it to the other silverware. It’s a rule in their house that we only use it for the special kids. So,” I looked back up at Victor and smirked, “Congrats.” 

He just trained his eyes on mine, maintaining his poker face and seemingly taking everything I said seriously. When I finished speaking, Victor hummed quietly and looked over to the spoon again. After a moment of silence, he spoke up. “How did you like the pudding?” I dropped my smirk. Victor always had a knack for throwing me off my guard.

“What?” I asked stupidly. 

“The pudding that I had made you. From your night at Souvenir.”

I blinked.

I slapped my forehead and cursed, “Ah, I haven’t eaten it. I crashed when I got home and then had dinner at my parent’s house and forgot about it. Maybe I can get Gavin to bring it-”

“Don’t worry about it.” Victor shifted to face his desk again, “I’ll make you some more while you’re here.” I hesitated

“... You don’t have to do that. You’ve done enough.”

“What? Are you worried my pudding will be better than yours?”

“If your pudding is anything like your stake. I know it will be." I grumbled, "What I’m saying is-”

“I know what you’re saying.” Victor interrupted, “It won’t be any trouble. Just worry about yourself and your health.” I stared at Victor. His profile was as sharp and strong as ever. But his face was drawn and his hair was messier than usual. Not only that, but he looked as if he had gotten thinner.

“No.” I answered without realizing it. Victor turned to me with an arched eyebrow.

“Excuse me?” His tone was harsh. It was obvious that the CEO of LFG didn’t get told 'no' often. I folded my arms defiantly.

“I said, 'no.' You’re telling me to take care of myself when you’re going out of your way to take care of my company. I’m fine. It’s just a scratchy throat and a wound I can’t even feel. You shouldn’t have to-”

“Do you think I don’t have the ability to take care of the company and you at the same time?” Victor asked this in a defiant tone.

“No. You can do anything you put your mind to.”

“Then why are you bringing this up so suddenly?”

“I just… I don’t want yet another person getting hurt because of me.” My voice was nearly inaudible. Images from the explosions pushed into my vision. Sights of people under the rubble, screams for help, unconscious coworkers,... Gavin’s lifeless body in my arms. 

I cringed and tightened my hands on the sheets, keeping my eyes down but not focusing on a thing. The room was silent, making the empty sound of the television monitor fill the room. 

“...Ike.” Victor said this slowly, as if readying himself for something, “Earlier you said something about the explosion being your fault.” I froze, “What did you mean by that?” I hesitated. 

“I don’t know.” I murmured quietly, “... Maybe if I had been a little nicer to my employees then I wouldn’t have had a bomb thrown in my window.” Victor didn’t say anything. After a moment, the clacking of his work shoes approached my bed. I looked up and saw he was looking at me gravely.

“That kind of a connection requires a lot of thinking.” He said in a tone that matched his expression perfectly.

“Is that another way of calling me a ‘dummy?’” I asked, raising an eyebrow and resting my head on my hand.

“I’m saying you’d need time to think about it.” Victor folded his arms and frightened his glare on me further, “This morning, after you had made that accusation, you wouldn’t have had the time to make that connection. So let me ask you again.” Victor leaned forward and slowed the pace of his speech, 

“Under what pretense do you have to blame yourself?”

 I stayed silent, flipping between Victor’s eyes.  Words hung at the edge of my throat. Just tell him. My thoughts urged me incessantly, Just tell him about the mask. About the bombings. About Montu. Tell him everything. He’ll listen. I opened my mouth. 

Suddenly, one thought hit my head like a train.

I quickly turned and stood up from my bed, putting it between Victor and me. “I don’t remember my life being any of your concern.” My voice was emotionless and distant as I walked towards the bathroom door, “You’re my boss. My personal life shouldn’t have anything to do wi-”

A hand wrapped around my wrist and, before I could help it, I was pulled towards a firm chest. I scoffed and looked up, locking eyes with Victor. He glared down at me. I waited for him to speak but he made no move to do so. I pushed off of his chest with my free hand, only to have it captured by Victor’s other hand. He pulled it to the side and away from me, making me virtually defenseless. 

I glared up at him, but stopped the moment I read his expression. Victor’s eyebrows were furrowed, his lips were thin, and his cheeks were slightly tucked in. But, as I looked into his inky black eyes, one emotion became clear.

Determination.

“Victor,” I growled, “What are you-”

“Do you remember what I had said after your night at Souvenir?” Victor spoke seriously. I flinched. Victor waited for me to answer but, after seeing I wasn’t going to, sighed and said, “I told you that keeping things to yourself isn’t healthy. I told you you could confide in me about anything.  I told you that I would help. I promised you. Did you not believe me?” My shoulders slowly eased as I read his face. He showed no signs of deceit, no break in character, no falter in his voice. It was all the truth. He meant it… but why? Why would he say that? What was his reason to-

“You have spent your whole life to yourself.” As if reading my mind, Victor spoke up again, “You have felt the need to keep everything to yourself, to never let anyone in. You don’t need to think about it that way anymore. You have a loving family, friends, employees…” Victor paused a moment. He loosened his hold around my wrists and drifted his hands up my arms until he was at my upper arms. He squeezed them gently, “... you have me.” I hitched my breath. A lump formed in my throat and my eyes welled with water.

I have waited so long to hear those words.

...

I shook my head and blinked back my tears as I forced my eyes to the floor. I raised my hands and pushed against Victor’s chest.

“V-victor.” I struggled against the lump in my throat, “That’s why… that’s why I can’t tell you. I… can’t lose-” 

Victor forced my hands off of him and, in one swift motion, pulled me into his chest. He wrapped his arms around my body, shutting me out of the world around us and engulfing me in his warmth. The smell of his expensive cologne plugged my nose and the sound of the buzzing television was overtaken by his steady breathing and beating heart. I could feel his breath tickling my ear as he rested his head beside mine, closing the distance between us even further.

My body tensed as a sharp blush pushed through my cheeks. I kept my hands held out past Victor’s body, unsure of what to do with them. I felt Victor shift his head, his mouth grazing the tip of my ear. His warm breath teased the baby hairs on my neck causing a shiver to run through my body. His next words were told in a whisper but they stopped my heart and made my mind go blank. After years of waiting for those words, they finally came from the mouth of LFG’s CEO.

“I’m not going anywhere.”

I paused a moment, letting his words reverberate through my head. Then, I felt my whole body relax. The tears I had tried so hard to hold back started falling down my cheeks. Victor took this moment to pull me even closer to him. Without hesitation, he continued, “No matter what happens, I’m here for you. You don’t have to hide in the dark anymore. Ikamara, 

“Let me help you.” 

Victor’s last words sent another shudder through my heart. I closed my eyes and, after a moment’s hesitation, buried my head in his shoulder. I shakily grabbed onto the back of his suit jacket. I squeezed the fabric tightly, as if letting it go would mean my death. I relished in the moment. Hoping that, at least in that moment, time would stop forever, and I would never have to leave his arms again. 

But, as soon as I thought that, flashes of the warehouse came flooding to my mind and played behind my closed eyelids. The chained front door, the empty classrooms, the secret room, the pictures... my pictures, the explosion, the lake,... Gavin.

I held back a sob as I gripped on to Victor’s jacket tighter. 

No. 

The word repeated itself in my head over and over, No. no no no NO! Please. Please just let me have this moment. Please let me take it in. Take him in.  I can’t keep this charade any longer. I can’t keep all of this to myself any longer. I need to vent it out. I needed to say something. 

Anything. 

The thought from before burned itself on the front of my brain. The same thought that made me want to distance myself from Lucien after that date. The thought that made me lie to Gavin’s face. The thought that made me scared to meet Kiro. The thought that stopped me from seeing my family as frequently as I wanted. The thought that terrified me to the core.

You’re putting their life in danger by letting him know.

So, through my watery eyes and aching heart, I muttered two short, strained words.

“I can’t.”

(Next)

[ikenbar]

A Date with Kiro: The Costume Shop

Howdy folks!

So, I’ve had the idea for dates supporting my oc, Ikamara for some time now but I wanted to go a little farther in her story before trying anything. But now we are at Chapter five so HERE WE GO!! 

I also want to use the dates to show off who would be the main fella for the next chapters!! and  SURPRISE!! Kiro will be the main for the next chapter!! :D So excited for this chapter you guys have no idea. And I’ll be able to show it off next week!! Stay tuned~ ;P

-Ike and Bar Productions

Setting: Right after the happenings of Chapter four. Ike has a weekend off so she spends it investigating some leads on the Montu case.

To understand some details about the Montu case, feel free to read Chapter one, part one of my fanfiction here! If you’re just here for the sake of a Kiro date, enjoy your stay! You don’t have to read the fanfiction to understand what is happening but it would make more sense! :D

Warnings: There are none. Unless you have a problem with tight clothing and/or cute gay moments.

Date with Kiro: Costume Shop

"Sorry, mam. Like I said before, we don’t sell that here.”

I pouted, dropping the mask in my hand slightly. I had made a goal to visit all of the costume shops in Loveland city, searching for the mask Montu had sent me, hoping to find one that had sold it. But the city only had three costume shops, and I had been through all them before ten on a Saturday.

Sensing my disappointment, the shop owner continued, “If it would make you feel better, you can have a look around. I don’t know. Maybe they took something apart from my store to make it.” I thought a moment, then nodded, shoving the mask into my messenger bag. I turned and looked around the shop. It was small but jam packed full of strange outfits and costumes. Some of which seemed to be vintage. This intrigued me.

I had barely taken one step into the store before a buzzing came from my pocket. I pulled it out and froze. 

It was Kiro.

I still hadn’t quite accepted the fact that the Kiro was now one of my frequent connections. But there he was, calling me on a Saturday like we were actual friends… at least I hoped we were. Maybe I was just a question he was trying to answer. After all, how we met left a lot to the imagination.

Without wanting to waste anymore time, I quickly answered the call.

“Speaking.” I said, as casual as I could.

“Hey Super Stranger! How are you?”

Instantly my sour mood disappeared as Kiro’s happy voice filled my ears. Kiro had given me that nickname when I had saved him from a car accident. I had my motorcycle helmet on so he couldn’t see my face very well. He had called me his hero and had given me a nickname to commemorate it. And, though the nickname was corny, it never ceased to bring butterflies to my stomach. “I’m alright.” I mused, walking further into the store as I spoke, “How are you?”

“I’m great!” Kiro sang, “Guess what?”

“... What?” I asked, my smile faltering slightly.

“I found this amazing little stand that serves the best drinks! You’ve gotta come try it!”

“What- Now?” I scoffed.

“Yeah!” Kiro sang, “I don’t know when they are closing so it has to be now!”

“I’m a little busy with work.” I said, pulling at various costumes from their racks, “I don’t think I’d be able to leave it so easily.”

“You work on the weekends?” Kiro laughed slightly.

“Well superheroing isn’t really a part time gig!”

“But even superheroes need breaks!”

“Yeah, well, crime never rests.”

“But they make an amazing hot chocolate! They add espresso for extra flavor!”

The mention of coffee instantly changed my attitude.

“What do you say? Just one drink!” Kiro’s pleas increasingly became higher pitched, as if he was a child promising to do chores for a piece of candy. 

Before I could say another word, a scream came from Kiro’s end of the phone. “Oh no.” Kiro whispered with dread on his tongue, “I’ve been spotted! I’ll text you the address and you can just meet me here!”

“Are you sure that’s a good-”

“No time to talk!” Kiro hurriedly said, “Gotta go! Later Stranger!” And with that, he hung up the phone. I looked down at the phone, shaking my head uselessly at it. Despite the disapproval I felt, a smile still crept it’s way up my lips. There was no way of saying no to that man.

 With new found motivation, I searched the variety of costumes for anything pertaining to Montu. Without realizing it, I had begun looking through the superhero suits. As I scanned the clothes, I pulled out a particularly familiar looking costume. My foster brother, Sam, and I used to watch old cartoons from CDs that our foster father kept in his attic. There were a thousand collections to pick from but one cartoon in particular truly piqued our interest. 

Boot Fever. 

It was about a group of superheroes that fought villains who tried taking over their already crumbling city. It was a very old show with a very old premise but, man did Sam and I eat it up. From the characters to the animation to even the terrible voice acting, we watched that show late into the night. I may not have had great memories of my childhood, but those memories are ones I would take to my grave. 

I thought the show had long been forgotten but there I was, holding the main protagonist’s outfit. Her name was Red Sparrow. Her super power was to be able to transform her body into anything she thought of.  Sam compared her to me all the time. Though the only point he could connect us to was the fact she was strong. Because, other than that, we were complete opposites. She was very dramatic and in tune with her emotions. Not to mention her suit was extremely form fitting. And, at the time, the tightest thing in my closet was my yoga pants. Even then they would be paired with an oversized sweatshirt and a flannel around my waist.

Past all of that, I loved the fact that she wore a full face mask. It resembled the face of the bird she was named after and, though the design was simple, made her character a big hit in her time. Women's appearances in shows in that time were based solely on how revealing they were. Red sparrow seemed to take that and turn it on it’s head. Her jumpsuit completely covered her whole body, hiding her identity completely.

I plucked off the mask from the top hanger and turned it over in my hands. No one would know it was her unless they took it off. She was a mystery. I longed to be that mystery ever since I was a kid-

A loud bang came from the front door. I ducked behind the clothes rack, immediately bracing for a fight. Instead, I was met with the sound of someone panting heavily. “Welcome in, sir.” The owner of the shop said sarcastically, “Is there something I can help you find?” Curiosity overlapping my shock, I peered around the rack. 

There, weakly leaning on the door, was Kiro. He had his eyes closed as he gasped for air. He was in his usual disguise of sunglasses and a black hoodie, but the hoodie’s armpits looked to be drenched in sweat as his sunglasses slid down his equally wet face.

I quickly sunk back behind the rack, frozen in fear. Kiro can’t be here! I screamed in my head, If he tried talking to me he’d know I was Super Stranger! Then I would only disappoint him by being some lowly tv show producer with no regard for feelings! Not to mention, holding a scantily clad costume of an old tv show. I have to act fast.

Looking down at the mask in my hand, a stupid plan came to mind. Not having the time to second guess it, I quickly threw the mask on and pulled the rest of the costume off of it’s hanger. I hurried to the dressing room and pulled the curtain shut, praying that Kiro didn’t notice me go in there. I quickly started stripping down, folding my clothes and shoving them into my messenger bag as I moved. 

As I changed, I heard some screaming coming from outside of the small shop.

“I saw him go this way!”

“Quick! Don’t let him go too far!”

Some rustling came from inside the store as Kiro’s familiar voice traveled the air, “Sir, I need a place to hide! Please! Help me!”

I had never heard Kiro so desperate. Half of me wanted to jump out of the dressing room right then to help him. The other half would rather finish getting dressed first. 

The latter won.

 I pulled on the skin tight suit, regretting it instantly as it squeaked over my skin and tugged at my unshaven leg hairs. 

“I don’t know, sir.” the shopkeeper droned, “That sounds rather suspicious to me.”

“I’ll give you my autograph.”

“There is a dressing room over there you can hide in.” The shopkeeper spoke quickly and excitedly. I cursed in a whisper as I picked up my pace. After a moment of pause, quick steps approached my hiding spot. With one last zip of my costume, thankfully from the front, the curtain to the room shot open. Kiro hadn’t looked at me yet, still focused on the door where the screaming had only further increased. But, once he had, his face went completely red. 

“I-I’m so sorry!” Kiro stammered, eyes darting straight to the ceiling, “I didn’t know this room was occupied!” A loud bang came from the store’s door again. Without lingering on the awkwardness anymore, I grabbed Kiro’s arm and pulled him into the room. I pushed him into the corner and held a finger to the mask’s beak. Still bushing wildly, Kiro nodded, holding his eyes on my mask all too securely. 

High pitched voices rang through the store as they searched the shop. Some of them were questioning the shopkeeper. Others were whining about how small the store was. The sound of metal scraping against metal chimed in the mess of sounds as the girls started searching the clothing racks for him. Soon the interrogating and complaints turned even more sour as they slowly came up with nothing.

Just as I thought we were in the clear, a shadow appeared under the dressing room curtain. “Hey!” A particularly annoying voice called, “Is there anyone in there?!” I froze. Kiro couldn’t answer. He was the person they were looking for! But I couldn’t answer either because Kiro would know I was Super Stranger!

“Hello?!” The girl impatiently called. I felt Kiro’s eyes on me. 

I sighed.

“Occupied.” I resolutely boomed. The shadow flickered.

“S-sorry!” She said, obviously startled by my voice. The shadow quickly disappeared. Avoiding Kiro’s eyes, I walked over to the curtain and peered out of the room, just in time to watch all the girls leave the store. I sighed once again and straightened myself, letting the curtain fall back into place.

“You should be safe now.” I said, turning back to face Kiro. He was staring at me wide eyed and mouth agape. His face had significantly returned to it’s normal hue, if not for a slight blush on his cheeks.

“S-Super Stranger?!” He scoffed, finally letting his eyes stray from my face and to my body. I folded my arms and popped my hip.

“Eyes up here, chief.” I deadpanned, signalling for him to adjust his gaze. He did so, his blush rushing back through his face.

“Sorry!” He chuckled nervously, pulling his eyes from me completely, “I just never thought you’d have such a…”

“Yes?” 

“... Such a love for such an old show! I mean, how old do you have to be to know who Red Sparrow is?!”

“Apparently not old at all.” I walked over to Kiro and tilted my head so our eyes met, “Suggesting that the twenty-three year old Kiro knows about it.” Kiro tensed. Then he laughed, releasing some of the obvious tension that rode on his shoulders. He looked at me adoringly through the mask.

“I can’t believe it, Super Stranger! You saved me again!” Kiro raised his arms. I held a hand out.

“They were just some fangirls.” I insisted, pushing Kiro backward, “No big deal.”

“Of course it’s a big deal! Who knows what they would have done if they caught me! Let me make it up to you.”

“That isn’t necessary.”

“Come on it’s the least I can do! Hey! That drink stand I was telling you about isn’t too far from here! Let’s go there!”

“And how do you expect to get out of here with those girls looking for you?” I asked, folding my arms again. Kiro’s eyes flickered back to my body. Then, a strange emotion sparked in his eyes as he let them linger there.

“I just need a new disguise!” He said rubbing his hands together. I slowly looked down at my outfit.

“... If you think you’re getting this-”

“No, this shop is full of costumes! I wonder…” Kiro walked past me, being careful not to touch me. He paused at the curtain, checking that the coast was clear, then he moved out of the room. I had only been alone for a couple of minutes until Kiro had returned, costume in hand. I froze.

In his hands was the costume of Complex Cell, the sidekick to Red Sparrow. He could duplicate himself up to a thousand times and not break a sweat, easily confusing the enemy long enough to take them down. He also just so happened to be Red Sparrow’s love interest. 

“What are you doing?” I asked, even though I already knew the answer.

“What do you mean, Sparrow?!” Kiro beamed.

>>>

“I can pay, Kiro.”

“Who is this Kiro?!” Kiro boomed, handing the shop owner his card, “For I am COMPLEX CELL!!” I rolled my eyes. The moment Kiro had put on the costume it was like he had completely disappeared, only to be replaced by Complex Cell. The overly confident, motivating, annoyingly positive sidekick of a superhero… so in reality not much had changed other than how he spoke, which was cute at first but it got boring quick.

“Come, dear Sparrow!” Kiro laced his arm into mine, “Hot chocolate awAITS US!!” He took his card and skipped out of the store, pulling me closely behind him. 

The moment I stepped out of the store, I immediately felt the eyes of the world on me. I may have been comfortable with my body but I had never been that exposed before. I normally would be wearing at least a jacket but now… 

“Hey.” Kiro tugged on my arm, “You ok, Sparrow?”

“I’m not Red Sparrow.” I said through my teeth, “Do you realize how much we stand out?! Everyone’s staring!”

“The sidewalk is practically empty.”

“Emphasis on practically.”

“Stranger,” Kiro laughed and tapped my arm lightly, “You’ve got nothing to worry about. Remember, you’re not the only one dressed up like this! I’ve got your back! Besides, you look amazing!”

My heart leaped through my throat, “... You really think so?”

“Of course!” Kiro looked down at me. His mask only covered the top half of his face, exposing his glistening smile, “I’m disappointed more people aren’t looking! More people need to see how amazing you look!” I elbowed Kiro in the side but still felt the uneasiness lift from my shoulders. There was nothing Kiro would say that could make me hate him.

“Red Sparrow!?”

Kiro halted in his steps and spun around. A small child smiled brightly at Kiro and me. She was tugging at her father’s jacket, pointing at us excitedly. “Dad! Dad, look!! It’s Red Sparrow and Complex Cell!” Kiro released my arm and struted confidently towards the kid.

“Hello, dear child!” Kiro boomed, , smiling brightly and laughing dramatically as he knelt to the little girl’s eye level, “I see you have spotted Sparrow and I! But I am very surprised that someone as pretty as you could know about us!”

“I watched you guys win battles with my mom!” The girl giggled, blushing at Kiro’s shining face, “I really like how you guys save the day! Everyday! I especially like Red Sparrow.” The girl looked hopefully up to me, “She’s my favorite!” 

“Well today is your lucky day!” Kiro turned to look at me as well, smile somehow brighter than before, “Isn’t it, Sparrow??” I looked between the two of them, frozen in place. I know what Kiro wants. He wants Red Sparrow. But I'm not Red Sparrow! I’m Ike. The horrible, cold, distant-

A sparkle flashed across the little girl’s eyes. A sparkle I was all too familiar with…

I sighed.

“My dear adventurer!!” My voice jumped to action as I threw my hands in the air and cat-walked over to the girl, “I am honored to be considered your favorite superhero! Pray tell, just how are you doing this fine day?” I knelt down next to Kiro and posed for the girl. Her face lit up beautifully, smiling brighter than even Kiro. Before I could say anymore, she ran into my arms, wrapping her arms around my neck tightly and nearly tipping me over. I kept my arms out, looking to Kiro for any kind of help he could give me. He merely grinned, flashing me with adoring eyes. I frowned uselessly at him. He was no help. 

I patted the little girl softly on her back, “M-My! You startled me.” I awkwardly said in Sparrow’s voice, “What’s this for?”

“Last year, my mommy died.” The little girl’s whisper stunned me even further, “She was sick and spent a lot of time in her bed. But we would still spend time together to watch you save the day! She said that she liked you because it didn’t matter what happened to you. You would always make sure the bad guys would lose. And that’s why you’re my favorite! Because you were my mom’s favorite!”

Anything I wanted to say was blocked by a lump forming in my throat. Tidal waves of emotions crashed through my heart as the girl’s grip remained tight around my neck. I may not have had that kind of experience before, nor did I want to experience it, but hearing it come from such a small voice made me feel so bad for her. Like I was next to her on that bed and watching those shows with her mom. The only person I watched those kinds of shows with was Sam and if I were to lose him…

I wrapped my arms around the little girl, pulling her closely to me as I cradled her. “You and your mother have quite an amazing taste.” I said, heroic voice faltering slightly, “But, you should know one thing. I am only a hero because you allow me to be one.” The little girl pulled away from me.

“What do you mean?” She asked, her big eyes filled with curiosity. I smiled lightly and moved my hands so I was holding her arms.

“I am only a hero to protect people like you! Without you, I would be nothing.��� I tilted my head and winked at the girl through my mask. The girl shook her head and pushed my hands down. 

“That’s not true.” She smiled, “You don’t need someone watching you to do the right thing! You should be able to do it because you know it’s right! That’s what my mom always said!” My finger twitched. Without a moment to waste, the girl turned to her father.

“Daddy! Daddy! Can you take a picture of us!!”

>>

The girl and her father walked joyfully away, leaving Kiro and me in silence. A hand rubbed my back. “You alright, Stranger?” Kiro asked, finally dropping his hero facade. 

“... How can a girl that young be so smart?” I asked softly, folding my arms and adjusting my posture to one that better suited me instead of Red Sparrow. Kiro laughed.

“You know, I was thinking the same thing!” He said through a chuckle, “I guess it’s true that wisdom comes from experience.” Kiro’s words left us in another meaningful silence.

“... She reminds me of my foster brother.” I said, my voice trailing slightly. Kiro’s head snapped to me in my peripherals. 

“You… were a foster kid?” Kiro asked, tone shifting dramatically.

“We used to watch Boot Fever all the time when we were growing up.” I continued, ignoring Kiro’s question, “He would dress up and pop popcorn because he was so excited to watch it with me.”  I turned and caught Kiro’s sparkling eyes. I rolled my own and shoved him from me. 

“Don’t look at me like that.” I deadpanned. 

“Stranger!” He said, closing the distance between us again with open arms, “You’re opening up!” 

“Yeah, yeah.” I mused, looking round the area we were standing in, “Where is this drink stand you have been raving about?”

“Oh!” Kiro quickly grabbed my hand and pointed behind me. A cute, wooden, mobile drink stand  sat on the other side of the street. Steam wafted up from a false chimney, gracing the cool air with the soft smell of caramel and cinnamon. Two people stood in line for the drinks, but other than that the street was nearly empty. “Luckily for us, those girls didn’t see me at the stand.” Kiro excitedly said into my ear, “And there is no line! Let’s go!” Kiro pushed against my back. I quickly swatted him away and started walking to the stand on my own. Kiro quickly followed, clapping his hands together like an eager child.

The couple at the stand left with their drinks, leaving room for Kiro and me to walk up. The woman manning the stand looked me up and down. A charming smile flashed on her lips. “Red Sparrow?” She asked, leaning on the counter and arching an eyebrow.

“Barista?” I asked, folding my arms again. She laughed and stood up straight.

“No need to get defensive, Red.” The barista said, “You look good!” A sharp blush struck my cheeks. Arms wrapped around my waist and pulled me backwards and into a chest.

“I know, right?!” Kiro giddily chimed, rubbing his head into my shoulder. I rolled my eyes and flicked Kiro’s forehead. He whined and pulled away from me to rub his head. The barista chuckled and turned to her drinks.

“So, what will it be, heroes?” She asked, avoiding any more eye contact with me. I looked at the menus on the side of the stand, then at Kiro.

“... I’ll have an iced caramel macchiato, subed with white chocolate mocha, coconut milk, and a mocha drizzle.”

Kiro and the barista looked at me in shocked silence. I turned calmly to Kiro. “Anything you’d like to add, Cap?” I asked Kiro casually. His look of astonishment never faltered.

“...You really drink that kind of drink?” He asked with a laugh.

“Oh not at all.” I tactlessly chimed, casually looking at the tip of my gloves, “I just told you I was a foster child. I’ve got to throw you off my scent before you figure out my secret identity.”

“Oh a drink order won’t throw me off!” Kiro laughed and casually approached me, “Just you wait! I’ll figure your identity out and we can be heroes together!... Speaking of which,” Kiro leaned forward, eyes shining beautifully, “Did you ever come up with a superhero name for me like you promised?”

I didn’t know if it was how close he was standing to me, the soft aroma of romantic scents, or the fact that he fit into that superhero costume so well, but every word I wanted to say got caught in my throat. All I could do was look him in the eyes. Eyes so gorgeously blue, I could swim in them…

“Hey, Red.”

I snapped to and looked over at the barista. She shook the iced drink in her hand. “You gonna pay for this or make me stand here holding it in the middle of fall?” She asked, tone dripping in annoyance. I cleared my throat and nodded, taking the drink from her. 

“As for you, Captain.” I said, regaining my composure as I turned back to Kiro, “Your hero name is one of importance. I will tell you what it is in due time.”

“So in other words, you don’t have one yet.” Kiro sighed, pouting slightly.

“I do too!” I huffed, stepping away from the stand and gesturing to Kiro to follow, “I’m just not going to expose it in a place where everyone is listening!” Kiro laughed and pulled me into a firm side hug.

“Alright Stranger, I’ll let you off this once.” He sighed, pulling me down the street with me by his side, “So what are you up to for the rest of the day! Are you free to hang out?”

“Me?” I scoffed, brushing off Kiro’s hand from my shoulder, “What about you? Does Savin even know you’re out here?”

“Today’s my day off! Which means I’m all yours!... if you’ll have me?” Kiro’s eyes sparkled like diamonds as he awaited my answer. My hand drifted to my messenger bag where a lump graced my fingertips. I dedicated the whole day to finding anything I could about Montu… but I suppose the costume shops were a bust, and I had no other leads to follow… 

“... Where to first?” I asked, adjusting the messenger bag on my shoulder. Kiro beamed and laced his arm in mine. With that, we had continued our walk down the street, starting a meaningless conversation and going nowhere in particular. And, for the first time in a while, 

I was alright with having no where to go.

(Next)

[ikenbar]

Mr. Love: Ike’s Choice CH4 PT5

Warnings: More Angst with Vickiboi, some aggravated swears, blood, plot thick enough to make Niki Manaj jealous, sass from Ike, and the all important cliFFHANGER!! :D

(Chapter Four (Victor and Gavin) Prologue, and part one, two, three, and four can be found here!)

Please read the author’s note (and the beginning of the story) on chapter one part one if you’re new here :D

And an additional note in the previous part of chapter four part three here! (I promise these notes are important)

Chapter four:

Part five:

I backed away from the box slowly, mind racing. Of course the unmarked box was from the man who wants to kill me! Who else would it be from?! Even Sam marks his boxes with cute pictures! That man also knew where I lived! I’ve seen the pictures that he played out in the warehouse! But… 

I whipped my head around to face my windows. How could he have known which door was mine?! Those pictures were taken outside of my apartment... unless… he had already been here before.

“Ike.”

I kept my focus on the windows, avoiding Victor’s call as my mind raced to places out of my control. “Is everything ok?” Victor continued to ask, despite my continued silence. I couldn’t muster the energy to put on a face for him. My mind only filled with thoughts of catastrophe. What if he was listening?! What if he had the place rigged with mics or cameras while I was away?! What if he had gotten in?!... 

What if he was still here?

“Victor, get out.” I finally found my voice. It’s hoarseness barely made it audible but I didn’t have the time to correct myself.

“What?” Victor’s voice dropped an octave as he spoke seriously, “Why? What is it?”

“N-nothing.” My lies were far from convincing as my lips trembled slightly in fear, “I-I just… Don’t feel good and need to lie down. I don’t need you here for-” I felt a hand on my arm. I jumped back and grabbed it quickly. Victor grunted and folded into my grip.

“Ike.” Victor growled, taking his other hand and squeezing mine, “Not so hard!” I quickly let go of him.

“I’m sorry!” I quickly said, reaching out to him again, “I didn’t- You were-... I-” 

“It’s fine.” Victor put his hands on mine, closing them into his palms, “I’m ok. Just... tell me what’s going on.” My beating heart pushed uncomfortably against my chest. I tightened my balled fists in Victor’s hands and looked worryingly around the room. I had to get Victor out of there. He could still be there.

“Ike.” Victor reached out and grabbed my upper arms, holding me strongly and securely, “Breathe.” I shook my head and looked up at him. Contrary to the look of confusion and worry in his eyes, Victor’s expression was firm, and steady. I felt the warmth from his hands push through my shirt. Slowly, my breathing became more and more controllable. Thoughts of logic and calmness slowly started drifting through the chaos I had previously filling my head. Of course he isn’t still here. I am on the third floor. Even if he had planned to corner me on my own, I was nearly healed and could have taken him on. Besides, why place a package at my door when he was already inside? He obviously sent the package to throw me for a loop. He didn’t even have a camera in the box to film my reaction. So he didn’t care how I reacte-… Unless…

He had other means of recording me in my apartment.

I looked around the room again. This time looking for objects that seemed out of place. Victor’s grim loosened on my arms. “Feeling better?” He asked, trying to meet my eyes. 

“...Yeah.” My voice trailed slightly as I only half paid attention to what he was saying.

“Can you think rationally now?”

“Yeah.”

“Great... Do you still want me to leave?” 

“Yup.” I finally looked back to Victor. I grabbed his arm and started dragging him to the door.

“What?” Victor scoffed, “Why?”

“I’ve got some redecorating to do.” I reached for the door knob but was pulled away from it as Victor wrenched his arm from me, throwing me back slightly. I looked up at him, meeting his serious eyes.

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” Victor’s composure was gradually being replaced with impatience as he glared at me.

“It means I what I want it to mean.” I reached for Victor again. He promptly dodged me. 

“Would you quit being so cryptic? You’ll waste less time by just telling me what’s going on!”

“Why do you care!?” I snapped, my eyebrows falling into a glare, “This is my apartment, my rules. If I want you out, you get out.”

“Not until you tell me what made you panic so much.”

“Victor-”

“Ike,” Victor’s voice boomed over mine as he took an assertive step closer to me, “Whatever secret you’re hiding is not worth your life! I am trying to help you! Can’t you see that?!”

“I don’t need-” I begun, but Victor silenced me with another step closer to me.

“I can’t sit idly by as you destroy yourself over this. It doesn’t matter what it is, you need to tell me what’s going on.”

“No I don’t.” I took my own step forward, prodding Victor with an aggressive finger, “You don’t know what you are getting into by asking me this. This isn’t some lame date, Victor. This is serious.” 

“Serious how?” Victor pried.

“Serious-ly not your problem.” I snapped, feeling a familiar burn welling in my chest.

“It shouldn’t be yours to bare on your own.”

“Victor, there is a reason why it has to be that way!”

“What is it, Ike?! What on earth could make you keep this to your-”

“I’m being targeted, Victor!” 

Unable to take it any longer, the words I worked so hard to keep to myself came spilling out of my mouth before I could stop them.  Water quickly flooded my eyes. I snapped them shut and threw my head to the ground. I squeezed my hands together in a tight fist, trying to calm my anxious heart. 

“What?!” Victor breathily asked. I shook my head and held a shaky hand up to my face. “Ike, what-”

I cut Victor off by grabbing his shirt. With the strength of my evol, I dragged him to the door, opened it, and threw him out. Victor fell backwards and banged his head directly on Gavin’s door. He winced and reached quickly to hold the back of his head. I cringed but had no time for apologies. I picked up his shoes and tossed them on to his lap. “I’ll see you on Monday.” I deadpanned as I grabbed the door. 

“Wait-” Victor reached out to stop me but I had already thrown the door shut.

Once I had shut Victor out, I ran right to the windows and closed the blinds. Then I got to work. Soon the sounds of the glass shattering, wood splintering, and the pounding of an obsessive knocker became something of a distant memory as I threw all of my concentration into finding something. Anything. I turned my apartment inside out and found… nothing.

Absolutely nothing.

I slid down the wall of my apartment. With my eyes half lidded, I looked around at the mess I had created. The apartment that I tried so hard to keep homely was in complete disarray. Broken glass, fluff, fabric, and flipped furniture littered the apartment, leaving nearly no sign of the hardwood floor under it. 

 I sighed heavily and covered my face with my hands. I couldn’t tell if I was relieved or angry that I hadn’t found anything. That man made me go crazy. Crazy enough to second guess the safety of my own home. 

The sound of a liquid dripping onto hardwood permeated my hearing. I looked down next to me. Blood soaked through my shirt and had begun spilling onto the floor, drenching one of the only places my floor shone through. I groaned. I’d likely reopened my wound with the excessive force that I had used and would have to start back to square one with it. I sighed and pulled off my shirt. There goes my security deposit. Blood is a bitch to get out of hardwood. I gathered my shirt up and wrapped it around my wound. I leaned back against the wall and stared blankly ahead, prepared to stay like that until I thought of a new plan or bled to death trying. 

Something shone from the corner of the room. I lazily looked over to it. The glimmer came from something green under my couch. Curious, I stood up and walked over to it. Lifting the couch with one hand, I looked down at the object. 

It was the mask.

 A large crack ran down the upper left part of it but the mask, stopping at the scarab in the middle of it’s forehead. The scarab itself looked unscathed, shining the same way it always had.

 I threw the couch aside and carefully picked up the mask, staring at it intently. I had felt so many emotions while I was tearing everything apart. Anger, anxiety, pain, regret, but, in that moment, I felt practically nothing. All I could do was recall all the events that led up to that moment. From the hitman, to the warehouse, to my company… it all started with this mask. This one mask threw everything I thought I knew out the window… 

...and now, I have that mask in my hand.

I shifted the mask in my hands examining it closely. He had given me the thing that had brought everything together. Whether he did it on purpose or not, I had something that connected to the case. Something I can examine. 

The man targeting me had given me evidence.

I brought the mask closer to my face, inspecting every detail of it. The mask itself was incredibly undetailed. With a velvet finish, it mainly looked like a background to the main attraction, the green scarab in the middle of the forehead. It didn’t look like cheap plastic nor did it look expensive. It looked like a type of hard, scratch proof glass. Glass that shimmered brighter than any diamond I had ever seen.

I hummed to myself in thought. The scarab had to mean something. And the term, Operation Montu. There had to be something connected there. I knew scarabs had something to do with Egyptian culture, but what of it? Who do I know that would know anything about that subject? Instantly, a name flashed in my mind.

I quickly ran to my landline I had tossed aside when I rummaged through my bedside table. After an easy reassembling, I was able to hear a dial tone. I nodded and looked around until my eyes landed on my phone book laying sprawled open on the floor. I quickly picked it up and flipped through it. After I had found the right number, I punched it in quickly and held the phone up to my ear. After a couple of rings, the line was picked up.

“Historic Animated Adventures Hotline. This is Christopher speaking.”

“Chris, it’s Ike.” I breathed a sigh of relief when my older brother picked up, “I have a question for you.”

“Ikie!” Chris’ usual happy tone sprung over the receiver, clashing dramatically with the anxiety still lingering in my stomach, “I’m glad you called. I’m so sorry I couldn’t pick you up today. Things have gotten busy and-”

“Don’t worry about it.” I rubbed my eyes in annoyance, “I got a ride from... a coworker- Listen. I have a question for you. About Egyptian culture.”

“Oo, what a way to pull me from work!” Chris excitedly mused, “Hit me!”

“What does the scarab represent?”

“Immortality, resurrection, and transformation.” Chris said quickly, as if I was quizzing him on some sort of tv show.

I hummed to myself in thought, “Alright… and one more thing. Does the name Montu have anything to do with Egyptian culture as well?”

“Yes! He’s the Egyptian God of war. He is the embodiment of the scorching of the sun by the sun God, Ra. Some believe that, because of an association with raging bulls, that he manifested himself as a man with a bull head!”

I hummed and pondered to myself quietly, I knew it! But, what could I have done to anger the Egyptian god of war?

 “Now, it’s my turn to ask a question.” Chris said in a slightly teasing tone, “Why the sudden interest in Egyptian culture?” 

“Just… preparing for a new show.” I lied as I looked around my room again, an idea coming to mind, “Bart had this idea where some lady disturbs a god in his sleep. He mentioned the name Montu but I had no idea who he was. Thanks, Chris. I’ll let you get back to work.”

“No! Don’t let me go back!” Chris whined, “Hey! Do you need a consultant for the show?? I’d be more than happy to take the job!”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” My voice trailed off the more I spoke, “I’ve got to go, Chris. I’ll talk to you later.”

“Alright.” Chris sighed, “Later!” 

I hung up the phone and tossed it aside. I quickly walked over to my bookshelves, now stripped of books, and reached behind it. A large, rolling, whiteboard slipped out easily sending loose papers to my already messy floor. Familiar chicken scratch and pictures met my vision as I pulled the board completely away from the shelf. 

The last time I had brought that board out was when I was a bounty hunter and I was targeting the Fozzy family, a family of mobsters that had been controlling a small, broken part of Loveland. I was able to find and capture the last member before my retirement and, with no other place to put the files, shoved everything behind my bookshelf, never to be seen again. Until now.

I ripped the remaining photos off of the board carelessly and threw them on my bed, which was upside down and sliding down against a wall. I used my hand to wipe the writings and long awaited discoveries like it was nothing. I took a magnet with a protruding front and hung the mask right in the middle of the board. Satisfied, I went to my bookshelf and squatted to the bottom drawers. With the doors already thrown carelessly open, I reached to the back and pulled away a fake backing, revealing a small secret compartment that only I knew existed. I used that compartment to keep the incriminating details of any case I had been working on. Just in case my apartment got broken into and my plans had been found out. I had also tucked away the last of my bounty hunting gear there. 

Keeping that in mind, I reached for the box of dry erase markers and pulled it out. The Fozzy Case file flopped over, disturbing the layer of dust around it and coating the gear and weapons around it. I waved away the dust from my face and secured the fake wall back into place. After making sure that it’s placement would go unnoticed, I walked back to the white board and popped the top off of one of my pens. Reaching for the top of the board, I wrote in big bold letters, 

“WHO IS MONTU?”

Then I got to work.

>>>

I had spent the rest of the weekend with my eyes glued to that white board. Only stopping to eat, clean my wound, or to clean my apartment. But never once had my mind wandered from the case. People had called and come to my apartment to check on me, only to be shooed away as I dismissed them at the door, telling them I was alright and that I couldn’t chat because of an nonexistent headache. Sam was the one who tried the hardest to come and see me, calling me continuously and stopping by with treats and movies to watch together. I waved him away, not wanting him to see what had become of my apartment. Or more, what had become of me.

Victor had made no attempt to make contact with me since the day I had thrown him out. The food that he had left me with still sat in my fridge, untouched and ignored, along with his still rotting pudding. 

I tried not to think about how aggressive I had been to him that day, snapping back to him the way I had and literally throwing him out of my apartment. I never wanted him to get hurt but, in protecting him, I ended up being the one hurting him. It was for his own good though. One day, he’d thank me.

I stood at my place in front of the whiteboard, reading over what I had written for the thousandth time that weekend. I had taped the ‘Get well soon’ card, the copies of photos and testimonies that Gavin had supplied to me beforehand, and written what I had found out from Chris on to the board. It was neatly organized with facts and evidence. But it was still empty of proof or suspects that might give me a lead. I had only pieced together what I knew and I really didn’t know anything. I especially didn’t know why this Montu was targeting me, or how he knew me in the first place. He knew me well enough to throw a bomb at my place of work, send a package at my home address, take pictures of me in hidden places, and map out every route I took. How did he get that information? What had I done to make him angry? And why did he choose me? For all I knew, he could have just picked me for the hell of it. But, despite all that I didn’t know, one thing was certain,

I had just spent the last three days without sleep and I had work the next day. 

I sighed and flopped backwards onto my newly fixed bed and looked up at the whiteboard in dismay. “I can’t believe I actually want Montu to make a move!” I groaned, rubbing my eyes with the palm of my hands, “At least then I could learn something more about him!... Other than he is the reason I am speaking aloud to myself in an empty apartment.” I sighed and dragged my hands down my face, “At least I could take my mind off of this and back into work.” I paused my hands over my mouth. “...Oh yeah. I’d be going to my new office in LFG. I would likely be working right beside my employees, watching what they’d be doing up close. They’ll have to listen to me if I sit mere feet from them.” I sat up in bed and looked out my window. I wonder where Victor put my office…

>>>

“This is my new office?” I stood slack jawed and dismissive at the scene in front of me, “I thought my company had their own floor!”

“They do!” Goldman, who had shown me to my desk, stood smiling nervously next to me.

“Then why, of all places, do I have to work here!” I flashed a glare to Goldman, “In Victor Li’s office?!” Victor’s office hadn’t changed much from the last time I had seen it. The only thing that was different was the folding table with an expensive looking laptop and landline sitting on top of it, and a classy rolling chair behind it. Not to mention it was only-

“Ten feet away from his bleeding desk?!” I huffed, gesturing to the ugly sight before me.

“It’s what the boss wanted!” Goldman held up his hands as my voice rose, “He specifically asked for it!”

“How do you expect me to get anything done this close to-”

“This close to who?”

A voice came from behind us. I quickly whipped my head around to see Victor standing at the door with a mug of coffee in one hand and his other in his pocket. He arched his eyebrow as our eyes met. I felt my eyebrow twitch. Emotions from several days ago came flooding back to my chest. I gulped them back and faced him straight on, adjusting my posture to one of  professionalism.

“To anyone.” I growled, glaring at Victor, “Victor, I have phone calls to make, meetings to conduct, a business to maintain, and you do too. We can’t rightly use the same without one being a distraction to the other.”

“Any business owner should be able to know how to maintain order in any situation they are placed in.” Victor’s cold, trained voice reverberated through the room as he strode haughtily into it, “This relocation is merely temporary. There is no need to get so worked up over it.”

I clenched my teeth together, stifling a comeback as I looked over at the scrawny folding desk. I could keep arguing with him, fighting him until I got what I wanted... but…

A wave of exhaustion hit my chest. I sighed and pinched the bridge of my nose. I really didn’t have the energy to fight with Victor. If this is where he wanted me, fine. It was only temporary after all. Besides, he really was doing a nice thing by letting my company stay in his building for the time being. The least I could do is tolerate him and go with whatever he had planned for me.

“Thank you for the new desk.” I said, moving to sit in my new chair, “I’ll try not to be a distraction to you, sir.” Victor’s movements noticeably stalled from my peripherals. I paid no mind to them as I placed my briefcase next to me and opened the laptop on my desk. I looked up at Goldman, who was still standing awkwardly in front of my desk with a look of confusion in his eyes.

“I don’t recall hiring you as my PA.” I deadpanned. Goldman jumped to attention and nodded to me.

“Right! Sorry!” He nervously chuckled. Goldman bowed then left my desk and briskly to Victor’s. I watched him leave for a moment. My original tactless tone almost seemed out of place. It really had been a while since I had been back on the job.

“What would you like me to do today boss!” Goldman asked eagerly. There was a silence. I placed my hands on top of my keyboard… then paused. I turned to look at the two men, both of which were looking at me. Victor in an emotionless stare, Goldman in a confused glance. 

Once I had locked eyes with Victor, he turned to Goldman. “Bring me the day’s reports.” Victor said to Goldman. Goldman quickly obeyed Victor’s orders and quickly walked to the door. Victor turned back to me, catching my eyes before I turned them back to the computer. “You look like you’ve gotten thinner.” He said, voice noticeably lower than before, “Have you been eating right?” I felt my eyebrow twitch slightly.

“Yup.” I lied, turning back to my computer.

“Did you eat all of the food that… I advised you to eat.” Victor said carefully. I looked over to Victor then to Goldman. Goldman had paused, one hand over the door.

“Yeah.” I said, catching on to Victor’s hint, “I did.” The last thing we needed were rumors being spread about Victor and I. Sharing an office was enough. Having people know we went shopping together was going to send waves in places I couldn’t manage.

Before the conversation could go any further, the door opened and was thrust into Goldman’s face. Goldman yelped and held his nose. A familiar head appeared from the door, holding a mug in his hand and a worried expression. “Oh geez.” Minor quickly squeezed through the door and tended to Goldman, “I’m sorry, dude! I didn’t see you there!”

“No, no I’m fine!” Goldman waved him off, laughing at his own stupidity, “I shouldn't have been standing so close to the door. My apologies.” 

I sighed with annoyance. 

So had Victor. 

We flashed each other surprised expressions. I blinked at him but quickly redirected my attention to my desk. Damn it. That was awesome.

Goldman finally left the room, allowing Minor to hold the door for him as he did so. Minor shut the door, then his eyes immediately landed on my desk. “Hey, Boss!” He beamed, walking to me with arms outstretched, “Long time no see! How are you?”

“I’m alive.” I sighed, “How are you?”

“I’m great!” Minor gave me a squinty eyed smile, “I got away from the fire with just a minor burn. And it’s all thanks to a certain someone!” Minor sung his last words, making it obvious who he was talking about. I hummed, locking my eyes on the mug in his hand.

“Is that my coffee?” I asked, a little too eagerly. Minor nodded and handed me the mug. I gladly accepted it and immediately took a swig of the drink. It burned my tongue as I drank it but I didn’t care. No amount of temperature was going to stop me from drinking that beautiful nectar of the Gods.

“Ya know,” Minor mused as he looked around the office, “When I was directed here, I almost couldn’t believe it!”

“Me neither.” I grumbled, “How is everyone doing? Are they settling in okay?”

“Yup!” Minor chimed, standing proudly in front of me, “We have all settled in with no problems!...” I arched my brow, “... Okay. Some people have complained about how cramped it is-but! It’s okay!!” Minor waved his hands frantically in defense as he flashed a worried glance to Victor, “It beats working in a combusted building!”

“I would have been fine with either.” I sighed, turning back to my computer, “After all, any business owner should be able to know how to maintain order in any situation they are placed in.” I looked over to Victor. He was taking a drink from his mug. An obvious curve hung from the corner of his lips.

Minor leaned closer to me. “You know,” he whispered, “there is an open desk next to Bart in the offices you could have.”

“Oh really?” I asked, keeping my eyes on Victor, “You don’t say.” Victor set his mug down and paid no attention to Minor and I. From the distance that I had sat from him, I could see that he had straightened up since last we met. His clothes were ironed and his hair was well kept. He looked to be that same man from our first meeting… except the bags under his eyes had deepened and his cheekbones looked sharper than usual. It was obvious that I wasn’t the only one that had lost sleep over the weekend. A wave of guilt crashed into my chest. What if I had really hurt him when I threw him out? What if he couldn’t sleep because of the pain?

I shook my head and turned back to Minor. “I’m fine here for now.” I said, hopefully quiet enough for Victor not to hear. Minor frowned at me.

“Boss.” He whispered, glaring at me, “Don’t tell me you’ve got a thing for your Boss! What would Gavin say?!” A wave of heat washed through my face.

“Would you cut that out!?” I flicked Minor’s head. He yelped and stumbled backward, “Quit assuming things are happening when they aren’t!”

“You’ll have to tell Gavin that.” Minor huffed, rubbing his forehead. I glared at him. Minor waved his hands in front of his face, “Ok! Ok! I yield!” I huffed and, after making sure he meant it, straightened myself in my chair. “... So!” Minor threw his hand to his hips, positivity brimming his lips, “What’s the agenda for today, boss?” I thought for a moment.

“Get Bart.” I said, regaining my professional demeanor, “We need to discuss the progress of the new show since I have been gone. And remind Claire that she still has a report she needs to turn into me. She may have been on vacation for a few days since we last spoke but that is no excuse for a late report.” Minor nodded determinedly 

“Aye aye captain!” He said with a large smile. Minor turned to leave the room. I turned to face my computer. Readying myself in front of my desk. I heard the door to the office open…

“Hey, boss?” Minor called. I looked up. He smiled kindly to me, “Thank you. For saving me.” I blinked, slightly taken aback.

“...It… was nothing you wouldn’t have done.” I said nodding to him, “You’re welcome.” Minor’s smile brightened. I cleared my throat and looked back to my computer, “We don’t have all day. Go get Bart.” Minor nodded and left the room, closing the door behind him. I flashed a glance to Victor. He was still looking at the door, eyes vacant. I paid no mind to it as I looked back to my computer. After a moment of silence, Victor spoke up.

“You are well liked among your employees.” 

I ignored him as I opened my email.

“I don’t think any of them blame you at all for the explosion.”

I froze.

(Next)

[ikenbar]

Ikamara One Shot: Soccer Practice

Hey there! To the new folks here, I have a fanfiction called Mr. love: Ike’s Choice featuring my OC as the main character instead of Youran! I write these one shots in between chapters to give a background to Ike and create a sense of tension as you wait of the next chapter!! If you are interested, you can find the link to my masterlist of the fanfiction here! Thank you for those who have read this far in Ikamara’s story. I hope you enjoy and clear up any questions you guys have for my OC! Thanks again!!

~ Ike ‘n Bar Productions Productions

Setting: Starts in the past when Ike had just begun talking to her family after her two years of being mute. After that, it begins before the epilogue of Chapter Three.

You don’t need to know Ike’s story to understand what is happening but it would make more sense if you did read it!!

Warnings: Stories of abuse, murder, and domestic violence. It doesn’t go too far into detail but if you are sensitive to those tones, I’d suggest not reading.

But! We also have foster family bonding!, Adri being a sassy freak!, dares that involve second hand embarrassment!, Ashton character development!, Sam being the best younger brother ever!!, and cute lil Lola! Not to mention a flirty surprise guest at the end ,’:)

One Shot: Soccer Practice

“Hey! How was practice?”

Ike could sense something was off with Sam the moment he got to the car. He didn’t jump into it with his usual enthusiasm and his smile seemed to be sapped of energy. Still, he smiled and answered Maria’s question as best he could. “Fine. We just practiced strategies for tomorrow’s game.” Ike kept her eyes on Sam, waiting for him to keep talking. 

But he didn’t. 

Maria, seemingly unaware of Sam’s bad mood, said, “That’s nice, sweetie!” and pulled the car out of park. Sam rested his head on the soccer ball that he had brought with him and stared adamantly out of the window. Ike sat impatiently next to the sorrowful kid, asty to ask what was wrong. She had just barely begun talking to people again. She didn’t want to cross any boundaries. She would have asked Ashton, her second foster brother, for advice, but his eyes were trained on his new phone and he had no intention on looking away. 

Ike folded her arms impulsively. Noticing this, Sam finally looked over to her, catching her eyes before she could look away. “What’s wrong?” He asked, tilting his head slightly. Ike’s hands tightened on her sleeves.

“I... was hoping you would answer that.” She muttered, looking meaningfully at Sam. 

Sam shook his hands in front of him, smiling emptily. “Nothing!” He said all too loudly, “I had a good day! I’m-” He paused, looking between Ike’s eyes. Finally, Sam sighed, dropping his smile into something that seemed more comfortable for him to wear. “...How did you know?” Sam whispered, diverting his eyes from Ike’s. 

“We are... connected. R-right?” Ike asked meekly. 

Sam smiled softly. “Right.” He nodded. Ike nodded as well , relaxing her grip on her shoulders slightly.

 “So… What happened?” 

Sam remained silent for a moment. Then he sighed and slouched in his seat. “I’m holding the team back.” He said, leaning his head on the palm of his hand as he looked back out the window, “Everyone is so fast and they have all the strategies down. Then there’s me. The guy who can’t even kick a goal without tripping up.” Sam’s voice trailed off slightly, making him harder and harder to hear, “It’s because everyone has someone they can practice with at home. But, I don’t! I have a twin brother who hates sports, an older brother who is always out with friends, and a dad who is always working late as a janitor of some big company. I’m never gonna be as good as my team.” Sam pouted as tears came to his eyes, “I’ll only drag them down.” 

Ike shifted slightly in her seat. She didn’t know what to do. Her question she asked made her brother cry. She didn’t want him to cry. She wanted him to smile. What was she supposed to do?! Ike took a deep breath and put a hand on Sam’s shoulder. Sam looked up at her.

“I’m sorry you suck.” Ike’s voice cracked slightly as she spoke to him. Sam’s eyes went wide. He blinked at her for a moment, then he burst out laughing. Ike’s face flushed. That wasn’t the reaction she was going for but… she could work with it...

“Man, you’re bad at this.” Sam giggled, wiping away the tears that had fallen down his cheeks. Ike’s face fell slightly. “B-but!” Sam quickly said, waving his hands and bringing Ike’s attention back to him, “But I know you meant well!! So thank you!” Ike hesitated, then nodded. She took her hand off of Sam’s shoulder, folding them once more across her chest. Sam leaned his head onto her shoulder tenderly.

“If only you could help me with soccer.” he sighed, “Then I could be better and we could spend more time together.” Ike watched the boy at her side. She couldn’t do that. She promised herself she never would again. Not since… but Ike wanted nothing more than to see his normal smile again. And to do so would mean… it was time to swallow her pride and do the right thing. 

Ike leaned forward and tapped Maria on the shoulder. “C-can me and Sam go to the... park?” Ike asked timidly. Maria’s eyes flashed with surprise as she looked at Ike through the rearview mirror.

“Right now?” Maria asked, tilting the mirror to see her clearer.

“You can drop Sam and me off and take Ashton to his club,” Ike’s voice tightened as she quickly made her case, “and you can come back to pick us up after it’s done. I just… want to help Sam... with his soccer… is that’s ok?.” Ike’s voice trailed off as she watched Maria in the mirror. Maria’s face turned from a face of curiosity to one of warmth and love as her foster daughter spoke.

“That’s very sweet of you, Evie.” She cooed, “I’m ok with it as long as you two stick together.” Ike sighed with relief and nodded. “We will. Thank you.” She leaned back in her seat, taking slow breaths to ease her panic ridden heart. Sam wrapped his arms around Ike’s arm, squeezing it tightly. Ike looked down at her brother. His eyes were stars as he looked back at her. His normal bright, missing toothed smile had returned. “Thank you, Ike.” He whispered sincerely. Ease settled into Ike’s shoulders.

>

Maria drove away after dropping Ike and Sam off. They walked together through the park until they came to a small soccer field. Sam ran up one of the benches, threw his back pack onto it, and kicked his soccer ball out to the field and started playing with it. Ike placed her school bag next to Sam’s and, after a moment of consideration, took off her jacket and placed it with the bags. Pulling her sleeves down and over the palms of her hand, she joined Sam on the field. 

Sam stopped playing and watched Ike. She always seemed so closed off and she always hid her arms. He always wondered the answer but was too afraid to ask. Maria always told him that he was to be careful talking with her but… she was still a kid. Just like him. She just needed someone to love her like she was normal. Even if she wasn’t.

“Are you… ok?”

Sam blinked and focused his eyes on Ike. She leaned forward, trying to meet his eyes. Sam quickly smiled and nodded quickly. Before Ike could ask him anything more he kicked the ball to Ike, holding back slightly and letting it fall slightly short of her feet. She watched it for a moment. Then she tucked the ball over her foot and kicked the ball straight up in the air. She skillfully caught it on the side of her foot as it came back down and started toying with the ball, tossing it back and forth, getting used to the all too familiar weight. Sam watched her, mouth slacked and eyes bulging. Never had she ever looked so cool to him.

Ike looked up at Sam. A warmth rolled onto her cheeks as his sparkling eyes met hers. She cleared her throat and kicked the ball to him. “That was so cool!!” Sam jumped up and down and ran to Ike, ignoring the ball. “Where did you learn to do that?” Ike paused and looked down.

“That’s... not what we are here to learn.” Ike moved back to the ball as she timidly spoke, “Right now, I need you to show me what you need to work on," Ike gestured to the goal behind her, “And kick the ball into the goal.” 

Sam nodded, “Alright but afterwards, no need to teach me how to do that!” Ike pursed her lips to prevent a rising smile as she braced herself at the goal. Sam assumed his position behind the ball and eyed Ike. He stayed there a moment, toying with her, hoping to psych her out. But Ike remained perfectly poised over the goal. In a flash, Sam kicked the ball. It sailed up and right for the goal. But before it could go in, Ike stopped it. She casually reached out and plucked it out of the air like it was nothing. "See?” Sam growled, kicking at the ground, “I told you I'm not fast enough."

"How hard you kick the ball isn’t what’s important here." Ike said seriously as she approached Sam, "You.. you are paying too much attention to what the goalie is doing instead of where you are kicking... Here.” Ike passed the ball to Sam, "Don't look at the goalie. Just look at where you want to kick the ball." 

"But Couch says I need to watch them for where they are moving!" Sam said quickly. Ike shook her head.

"The goalie has their job and you have yours." Ike spoke plainly, pulling Sam's undecided attention closer to her, "You should keep their movements in mind, but your main focus should be where you're kicking. If you think about the goalie too much, you'll subconsciously kick to them, making it easier for them to stop you.” Ike paused a moment. For some reason she was out of breath. It really had been a while since she had spoken this much. “… does that… make sense?" Ike added, hoping her speed was only taxing her instead of Sam.

Sam slowly nodded, “Yeah. It does! You know, you explain it much better then couch does.” He placed the ball in front of his feet, “He just yells at me and tells me I’m a good for nothing kid.” Ike’s hands clenched into fists. “Ok!” Sam said, not noticing Ike’s change in attitude, ”Are you-”

“You’re not good for nothing!”

Ike’s yelling caused Sam to stubble slightly. Ike puffed her cheeks and stood up straight as she pointed a finger at him. “You are needed, and important, and bring more happiness then you know, okay?! Don’t let that couch, or anyone else for that matter, tell you otherwise! Got it?!” Sam blinked at Ike.

“Ye-yeah. I know.” He stammered, “I’m sure he just says that to get me to work harder. I don’t think he means it or anything.”

“Yeah… w-well.” Ike’s face quickly grew red as she looked at the ground, “Those words should never be used lightly…” The two of them sat in heavy silence for a moment. Sam had questions he wanted to ask but swallowed them. If she wanted him to know, she’d tell him.

“H-hey.” Sam called, getting Ike to look up at him, “Thank you. It means a lot.” He smiled brightly, the brightest Ike had ever seen since she had moved into their foster home. It was almost contagious.

Ike’s blush brightened as she nodded. She covered her mouth with her hand but Sam could still she her squinting her eyes, showing the emotion she tried so hard to hide. It filled him with determination.

“Ok!” Sam said, bracing himself at the ball, “Ready?!” Ike looked at him then cleared her throat and braced herself as well.

“Yeah.” She said, glaring at the ball, “Let’s do this.”

>>>

“In other news, the anniversary of one Tyler Young-Diaz’s death is coming up. The once renowned soccer player who led Loveland City’s soccer team to victory plenty of times before his demise. He died from-”

The television went black.

“Hey!” Sam whipped his head around, “I was watching that!”

“You can watch it when we get back.” I said, tossing the remote on my foster parent’s couch, “You ready for practice, kiddo?” Sam’s once agitated face lit up.

“Yeah!” Sam jumped up from the ground, where he was absentmindedly playing with his baby sister, and ran to my side, “Are you finally going to show me how to do some cool tricks?! Like, when you look like you’re gonna kick the ball one way but you actually kick it another?!”

“Settle down, kid.” I rubbed Sam’s head, “Once you’re able to get a goal on me, I’ll think about it.”

“Are you guys leaving?” Maria called from the kitchen.

“Yeah!” Sam and I called at the same time.

“Could you take the other kids with you? They’ve been on their phone since they woke up.”

“Sure.” I said, despite Sam’s growls of annoyance, “Do you want me to take Lola too?”

“That would be great!” Maria poked her head out of the kitchen and smiled at me gratefully, “Thank you, Evie!” 

“Of course.” I continued into the room and gave Sam’s head another rub, “Go get Ashton and Adri for me, Sam.” 

“Ugh,” Sam whined but still made his way to the stairwell, “This is gonna suck.”

“Oh, come on.” I said, scooping up Lola from the blanket she was playing on, “It won’t be that bad. I’m sure we won’t even know that they’re there.”

>>

"OK. I saw the sun. Can I go home now?"

"Ugh, couldn't you have picked a time to practice when the sun isn't so bright?"

"I don't even have reception out here! And Maria cut off my data so no wifi either! This blows!"

"I mean, what am I even going to do at the park? I'm not a baby anymore. I don't want to play on the playground."

“Stop giving me the death glare, Sam. I can take a message.”

“Obviously not.” Sam growled at his siblings. In between the complaints, Sam would catch my eye and flash me an expression that screamed 'I told you so.' Still, I remained optimistic as we reached the soccer field. Adri and Ashton sat at the benches and began to pull out their phones. With my Lola free hand, I snatched them away from their hands. They both looked at me with shock and anger.

"You were brought here to be away from your phones." I said, giving them a stern look, "Now, meet Sam out on the field."

"But-" Ashton and Adri began to introgect but one flash of my evil eye shut them both up. They reluctantly stood up and walked with me to the field.

"They're joining us?!" Sam scoffed, "But they are just going to slow us down!"

"Come on kiddo." I rolled my eyes and patted Sam on the back, "Buck up! You're starting to sound like them."

We all worked together to set out Lola’s play pen then, with her placed safely next to me, we all created a circle facing each other. I bounced the ball on the side of my foot and looked at the group. “Alright,” I said in the best couch voice I could muster, “Today we are going to play a little game of truth or dare. Pass the ball to the person you want to ask and they must comply.”

“Boring!” Adri groaned, “Truth or dare is a sad game that little girls play at slumber parties to talk about who likes who. Besides, the dares are weak. ‘I dare you to tell your crush you like them!’, ‘I dare you to tell a stranger they look nice!’, ‘I dare you to knock on a door then run away!’” Adri blew a raspberry.

“Ok, if you are so confident,” I passed the ball to Adri, “Accept a dare from me.” Adri caught the ball clumsily between her legs. All the same, she looked up at me with determination.

“Fine!” Adri scoffed and folded her arms, “Hit me with your best shot, Granny!” I smirked and pulled out my phone. With one quick scroll through my contacts, I pulled up a certain someone’s profile. I hummed to myself and held out the phone to Adri. “Adrienne, I dare you to call Lucien and tell him about that mole growing on your back.”

Adri’s face flushed royally, “H-How did you know about that?!” She stammered.

“You just told me.” My smirk grew. Adri stood dormant.

“Wh-what if I say no?” She asked, her trembling voice erasing what sassiness she held before. I hummed and reached into Lola’s diaper bag. 

“I get to draw on your face and post it in my moments.” I said, waving a washable red marker in the air. 

“Pfft, I can do that.” Adri said, approaching me confidently. Before she could take the marker, I pulled it away.

“I wouldn’t be too sure.” I said, my smile unwavering, “I wouldn’t think you’d want a certain someone seeing that.”

“I don’t care if Professor-”

“I’m not talking about Lucien.” I mused, “I’m talking about a certain superstar. I don’t know if you’ve heard him. His name is Kiro?” Adri’s normally pale face became ghastly as she stared at me wide eyed.

“K-Kiro follows you?!” She gasped.

“Oh yeah. And he often is the first to react to a post.” I brought the pen back down into Adri’s reach, “So, still want me to draw on you?” 

Adri remained motionless. Her eyes played how much emotions she couldn’t quite express. Ashton giggled from behind her. “Oh man.” He chuckled, “You’re boned!” Sam burst into laughter and leaned on his twin for support.

“You’ve got to choose which hot guy is worth making yourself a fool out of!” Sam laughed heartily, “You should have kept your mouth shut!”

“As should you.” I chimed, looking up at the boys, “Don’t forget, it will be your turn eventually.” The twins gulped. 

In a flash, Adri swiped my phone from my hand. She pressed a few buttons on it and held it up to her ear. “Don’t pick up. Don’t pick up!” She chanted rocking back and forth in her heels, “Don’t- SHIT AH I HAVE A MOLE ON MY BACK!” And with that, she pulled the phone from her ear, hung up the call, and chucked the phone at me. 

“Swear jar.” Ashton chimed, covering a large grin as Sam fell to the floor in a fit of laughter. With a furious red face, Adri glared menacingly at me. 

“You are evil!!” She huffed. I lowered my head so I stood eye to eye with her. With a cunning smile, I responded,

“Never challenge Ikamara Bikira.”

And so our time on the field continued. Adri, now dead set on exacting her revenge on me, soon got lost in the game as Sam and Ashton soon got their comeuppance. Ashton through telling everyone he secretly plays detective with his stuffed animals when he is alone in his room, and Sam when he confessed to the girl in his art class over the phone that he was the one who drew a mustache on the masterpiece that cost her an A. 

Soon, the ball was passed to me by Ashton. “Alright, kid.” I said through a steady smile as I messed with the ball between my feet, “Hit me.” Ashton watched me as I played with the ball, his eyes clouded with thought.

“... Tell us how you know how to play soccer.”

I stopped playing with the ball. The happy energy in the group tanked quickly as I looked up at Ashton. “... What?”

“Tell us how you know how to play soccer.” He reiterated, “You’ve been teaching Sam soccer for years and he has gotten good. Really good. So that would bring up the question, how does a business woman such as you know how to play so well?”

“... You didn’t even ask me, truth or dare.”I said, trying hard to hold back what anxiety pooled at my throat.

“Ok, truth or dare?” Ashton asked, folding his arms.

“Dare.”

“I dare you to answer the question.”

I gritted my teeth and straightened my posture.

“Uh, hey!” Sam quickly said, “Maybe there can be a line that we don’t-”

“No, no.” I waved my hand to Sam but maintained my eye contact with Ashton, “You all did what you were dared to do… I can too.” paused then took in a deep breath.

“I learned it at my fourth foster home.”

The field went silent...

“... I just told an insanely hot college professor I had a mole on my back.” Adri deadpanned, “I think we need a little more than that.”

“Ok, fine.” I groaned. My eyes fell to the soccer ball sitting idly between my feet. Small flashes of suppressed memories flew past my eyes. I blinked them away but I knew I couldn’t hold them back. Ashton was right, I had been teaching Sam soccer since I was fifteen. He had a right to know… they all did.

After a pause that seemed to last ages, I sighed. “... I had just gotten out of the police station for turning in my abusive foster parent. I was immediately moved to an emergency foster house until they could find a new, permanent one for me to live in. The foster father welcomed me in like I had always been his daughter. He bathed me, clothed me, and gave me a warm meal to eat with in the first hour I was there. He was the best dad I had ever had… but the foster mother wasn’t as kind.

“She would always find something that she hated about me. My hair, clothes, skin, and so on. She particularly hated seeing the scars that my last family had left and would constantly nag that I would cover them up. But it wasn’t just me that she would yell at. 

“Her and her husband would constantly fight. So much so that I had to play my radio at full volume to block out the sound. Though it would only make the mother angrier as she would start yelling at me to turn it down…” I took a deep breath, “But the father wouldn’t give up on me. While the mother was at work and he had time off from his… work, we would do something that only belonged to us. Something that he loved to do and could teach like it was riding a bike… and that was soccer. 

“He taught me how to play any chance he could. It would be away from his wife, full of exercise, and the perfect way for him to be spending time in between work. We really got to know each other. In fact, he talked about running away together. Just the two of us… playing together forever…” I paused.

“... What happened?” Adri asked impatiently. I cringed. The memories I tried so hard to stifle shot like daggers behind my eyes.

“... One day, around six at night, my foster father came home from a long trip. I was already in the backyard, playing with the soccer ball and readying for our practice. But, his wife had gotten to him first. They started fighting again but it wasn’t like how it was before. They were screaming at each other, threatening each other, as if the fight was about to get physical. It got to the point where I couldn’t understand what they were saying. And then, as quick as it started, it stopped. Something felt off so I went into the house, only to find that my foster father was on the ground… bleeding out from his head. That woman was standing over him, holding one of his trophies and looking at her husband in horror. It didn’t take long for her to notice me and, when she did, all hell broke loose.

“She blamed me for what happened, said that the fight wouldn’t have begun if I had just stayed with my last family. Then, she kicked me out, told me to never come back and that if I told the police she would end me like she did to him. I didn’t give it a second thought. I quickly packed my things into a school bag and took off. I walked for hours until I was at the foster center. I refused to talk about what happened, terrified out of my mind from what that wench said.

“Later I had found out that the foster center agreed with the police to keep my being there out of the papers to shelter me from any press so no one knew I was there… or how much that man meant to me…

“After spending some time in an orphanage, I had eventually found my way into the home you guys find yourselves in now… and, the rest is history.” 

After finishing my monologue, I was scared to look at the faces standing before me. I expected them to press me for details, to badger me for names or tell me that I was lying and to tell the real reason. Instead, Adri did something much worse.

“... Your foster parent was Tyler Young-Diaz, wasn’t it?”

Though her voice was small, it sent shockwaves through my head. I looked up at her. She was looking at me with wide eyes and a complicated expression, one of which the other two boys held as well. 

Seeing that I wasn’t going to respond, Adri continued, “I read about it today. He was murdered by his wife with his nationals trophy.”

“...yeah. That was him.” I sighed, looking back down at the ball at my feet.

“... So, you were taught soccer under a professional?!” Adri asked with feigned excitement. I looked back up at her in confusion.

“Really?!” Ashton scoffed and punched Adri’s arm, “Is that really all you got from that story?!”

“Hey! I’m just trying to lighten the mood!” Adri glared at Ashton as she rubbed her arm, “What else do you say to someone who just confessed to witnessing her foster father’s murder?!?”

“Ike.” Sam spoke up. I turned to him. He looked at me with tearfilled eyes, “Did all of that really happen?” I hesitated, then nodded. Sam winced as if he were in pain. Before I could ask, he ran to me and nearly tackled me with a hug. “I’m so sorry.” He sobbed, clutching to my shirt tightly, “I didn’t know! I should have never agreed to learn from you! I would have just kept playing poorly if it meant you’d never have to relive those days.”

“Hey.” I pried Sam off of my stomach to look him in the eye, “Weren’t you paying attention? The time I played soccer with Tyler was the best time I had spent with that family. Playing soccer with you isn’t painful. It’s my favorite time of the week.” Sam’s eyes welled with tears once again, but I could tell it wasn’t for the same reason as before. He buried his head back into my stomach.

“I love you, Ike.” He sobbed, rubbing his face into my clothes. I sighed and stroked his head softly. I looked up and caught the eyes of Adri and Ashton as they watched us, longingly, eyes watering slightly. I rolled my eyes and held out my arms.

“Bring it in.” I said, gesturing to them. Adri and Ashton exchanged looks, then joined us in our hug, pulling us all tightly together. Our hold only lasted a moment before a disgruntled yelp sounded from beside me. I looked down to find an angry baby looking up at us.

“Alright, Lola.” I sighed and scooped the baby up from her pen, “You can join in.” Lola’s face immediately lit up as we brought her into the hug. She giggled and grabbed for whatever she could reach. Unfortunately for Ashton, it was his hair.

“Alright!” He quickly called, delicately removing Lola’s fingers from his head, “Hug time’s over.” Sam and Adri laughed and quickly backed out of the hug to help Ashton.

“What a practice this turned out to be.” Sam chuckled, wiping the last of his tears away.

“Aw man. I miss the hug?!?"

We all turned and caught sight of our sharply dressed, disappointment looking, eldest foster brother strolling into view. "First you don't invite me to your sibling pow wow and now I don't even get a hug!" Chris pouted, extending his empty arms out to us.

"Chris!" Sam exclaimed, running to vacate the space between Chris' arms. Chris accepted Sam's hug, pulling him off his feet and into the air as he shook him around. Adri rolled his eyes and walked over to him while Ashton hid behind me for protection. This backfired as Chris approached me from a hug and I accepted, dragging my little brother in with me. Ashton groaned and struggled out of my grip, bringing a chuckle throughout the group.

"I came to visit you guys but no one was home!" Chris said, plucking Lola from my hands, "Momma Maria said you'd be here! But, what’s with the tears?”

“Ashton asked the wrong question.” Adri deadpanned.

“Sam is an emotional dork.” Ashton retaliated.

“We learned more about Ike’s past!” Sam beamed, “She told us about her last foster family before us! The hug just kinda happened... almost like we all found a new appreciation for each other.” Sam looked meaningfully around the circle. Ashton rolled his eyes and shoved his brother.

“Like I said, emotional dork.” Ashton tactlessly remarked. Sam growled and jumped at Ashton. I caught Sam in mid-air, stopping him from making any contact with Ashton. 

“Alright, kiddos.” I said, picking Sam up casually and sitting him on my shoulder, “How bout some ice cream?” Sam cheered loudly, causing Lola to cheer as well. Adri and Ashton exchanged looks of begrudged approval. I looked up at Chris. “You care for some family time, pal?” I asked with a smile. Chris beamed brightly.

“Let’s go!” He cheered, jumping in place like a child. I rolled my eyes and placed Sam down as the phone in my pocket vibrated obsessively. 

“Take care of the pen, would you, Sam?” I asked as I pulled out my phone. Sam quickly complied and began taking it down, humming to himself happily. I smiled and, without looking at my phone, answered the phone.

“Speaking.”

“... A mole on your back, you say?” A familiar voice chimed.

My heart leapt.

“I’m afraid I have more questions then answers, Evelyn.” Lucien added through an obvious smile. 

“Sorry, Lucien.”  I said as eased my posture slightly, “We were playing truth or dare and I had Adri call you. Don’t take what she said seriously.”

“We?” Lucien asked curiously.

“Ashton and Sam were there too. We spent the afternoon playing truth or dare while Sam practiced his passing for soccer.”

“I see.” Lucien mused, “Did you have fun?” I looked over at my siblings, who were all laughing and talking together.

“Yeah.” I answer genuinely through a genuine smile, “I feel like we have grown closer as siblings.” I directed my attention back to Lucien, “I’m sorry if I pulled you from your work.”

“Not at all.” Lucien said quickly, “In fact, I have some free time to keep talking to you. May I press you for details on your day?”

My smile grew, “Sure. I can talk.”

(Next)

[ikenbar]

Mr. Love: Ike’s Choice CH5 PT7

YESSS the fluff is BAck babYYYY!! I’m not usually enthused by fluff but Kiro fluff is a whole other thing.

Warnings: One curse word. THEN A WAVE OF BRUTAL, SOMEWHAT MEANINGLESS FLUFFFF capped off by a cliffhanger for funzies B)

(Chapter Five (Kiro and Youran) Prologue and part one, two,  three, four, five, and six can be found here~)

((Please read the author’s note (and the beginning of the story) on chapter one part one if you’re new here :D))

Chapter Five:

Part seven:

Kiro, now sporting one of the hats and funny glasses that Sam had won, walked alongside Sam and I as we explored the carnival together. Though Sam and I had already seen most of what the carnival had to offer, it seemed like a whole new experience walking with Kiro. He told jokes, played the games, rode thrilling rides, and ate tons of junk food all with a bright smile. Even when he lost said games, Kiro had such a childlike wonder about him that made it feel like we had won anyway. After all that time I had spent avoiding him, I forgot just how addicting it was to be in his presence.

Sam basically dragged Kiro and me everywhere. Taking us on rides to forcing us to play the games he couldn’t reach. Kiro was a good sport, playfully joking with Sam as they walked around. Though, Sam made it hard to keep his cover from being blown.

“Oh! Over here Ki-... uh… sir?” Sam muttered, nervously looking around, “I, uh, don’t know what to call you without you being busted.”

“SongBird.” Kiro and I said this at the same time. We exchanged looks. Kiro’s eyes sparkled with brilliance and genuinity. 

“Does this mean I’m your sidekick again?” He eagerly asked.

“It would be a pain to replace you so soon after our first issue.” I winked. Kiro’s grin somehow became even bigger. I rolled my eyes and began walking again.

“What about your idol?” He continued to press as we walked, “Am I that again too?”

“Don’t push it.” I flicked his forehead, “I’m still not over that whole Key thing.” Kiro nodded seriously.

“You will be! I promise I will only ever be respectful to my Super Stranger from now on!” Kiro held up three fingers, “Superstar’s honor!” I shook my head, but still, my heart fluttered in my chest.

As we made our way through the park, every game that Kiro won, he was sure to give me the prize. I found it to be cute and intoxicatingly sweet at first, but soon found it troubling after the third teddy bear. 

Kiro took the headband with cute bear ears from the vendor and moved to give them to me. I pushed his hand away. “What’s wrong?” Kiro asked, clearly taken aback, “You don’t like them? Did you prefer the cat ears?”

“You shouldn’t give me all of your prizes.” I deadpanned, “Save them for yourself. You’ve earned it.” Kiro blinked in disbelief, then laughed. 

“Silly!” Kiro placed the ears on my head, “The reason I am playing the games is because I want to give you the prize!” My face burned deeply.

“W-what?” I stammered, “Why?” 

“Because, you look so vulnerable while holding all these prizes.” Kiro smiled sweetly, “It’s pretty cute.” My already burning face nearly caught flame from his words. Did Kiro just call me cute?! The Kiro. Calling me cute?!

Kiro laughed heartily at my flustered state. I buried my face in the teddy bears in my hands. “D-don’t call me that.” I murmured. 

“What?” He laughed, “Why?”

“Because, You’ve seen who I am, what I can do. I am far from cute. I’m…” I couldn’t finish the sentence. I couldn’t bear to. If Kiro agreed with me, I wouldn’t want to show my face to anyone ever again.

I felt a hand on my head. I looked up and saw Kiro’s earnest eyes boring a hole in mine. “You are Super Stranger.” He spoke resoundingly, leaving no room for arguments, “You’re a hero! More importantly, you’re my hero.” I stared at Kiro, completely speechless. A warm feeling ignited in my heart. Kiro smiled wider and brushed my burning cheek slightly with his finger, “Besides,” He continued, Changing his voice to a more playful tone, “I like seeing this side of you! You shouldn’t try to hide it!” Every touch Kiro gave me made me feel nice but this action made me weak at the knees. Before I could savor the moment for much longer, Sam grabbed Kiro’s arm and pulled him from me.

“Come on!” Sam egged, “We are losing sunlight and we haven’t seen everything yet!!” I stood there, still trying to find feeling in my legs. Kiro turned to look at me from where Sam was pulling him. He laughed and quickly placed the bear ears on my head. 

“Come on, Stranger!” He laughed, grabbing my hand, “Snap out of it! You heard the man!” I shook my head and let Kiro guide me, holding his hand tightly as we walked. My heart had never felt so light in my life. After how horrible I had felt before, the feeling seemed off… but I wouldn’t have taken it away for the world. 

Sam muttered from next to us as he craned his neck to look over the many heads in front of us. “Ugh,” huffed Sam, “When am I going to get that dang growth spurt.”

“Swear jar.” I slapped the back of Sam’s head. Kiro laughed as Sam glared at me.

“Don’t worry.” Kiro grinned, rubbing Sam’s head, “It’ll come eventually! It took me some time too! Until then,” Kiro stopped walking and squatted down in front of Sam, “Hop on!” Sam's eyes bulged out of his head. He looked up at me. I arched my eyebrow and grinned.

"You gonna leave him hanging?"

Sam shook his head. At that moment, I had never seen Sam smile so brightly in his life. It nearly stunned me. It didn’t seem to be as dazing to Sam, as he quickly ran over to Kiro and hopped on his back, slightly knocking the wind out of him. 

"Careful!" Kiro chuckled hoarsely as he held on to Sam’s legs, "I'm fragile!"

“Sorry.” Sam nervously smiled. He wrapped his arms around Kiro’s neck as Kiro stood up. Sam's eyes sparkled as he looked around. I couldn’t hold back my grin anymore. Sam deserved a fun day like this. “Ike! Look! There’s a high striker! You should totally give it a try!” I followed Sam's eyes and looked through the crowd. Sure enough, there, standing high above the crowd in the distance, was a high striker game. “No one has been able to get the bell!” Sam leaned close to Kiro’s ear and talked excitedly, “People are saying that the only way to win the prize is to have superhuman strength! The prize went from a large teddy bear to a mountain bike because of the rumors!”

“And you think Super Stranger can do it?” Kiro asked, even though he knew full well what I could do.

“You doubt me, SongBird?” I arched an eyebrow at Kiro. He quickly shook his head.

“No! Not at all!” Kiro said this seriously. My smile widened as looked back at the high striker bell.

“I don’t know if I should, kiddo.” I folded my arms and lowered my voice, “It may not be a good choice in front of this many people.”

“You’re right.” Sam eyed the people around him suspiciously and lowered his voice as well, “They can’t be trusted.” I nodded and tousled his hair. 

As we slowly approached the game, loud shouts could be heard over the bustle of the costumers:

“Yeah, I thought those muscles were just for show!”

Getting closer, we saw a heavily muscled man storm off from the game, leaving behind a tackily dressed vendor to count the money in his hand. “Go whine to your followers about how you weren’t good enough!” The vendor continued as he waved the man off. He shoved the money in his pocket and addressed the crowd of people. “Come on!” He harangued, “Yet another year and none of you weaklings can beat this simple game?! What about you, red?! Don’t gingers have a temper! Use it!” The vendor caught sight of our little group. “Look at this guy!” The vendor scoffed, gesturing to Kiro, “He can carry this grown kid on his back but he doesn’t have the balls to play the game!!” 

All eyes suddenly shifted to us. Kiro quickly ducked his head so his hat covered more of his face. 

My smile dropped.

 “And that chick next to you! The cute one with the bear ears!” The vendor continued, obviously on a roll, “I bet she would like a new mountain bike! Or better, yet,” The vendor licked his fingers and ran them over his eyebrows, “A man who can finally satisfy her.” I threw my prizes into Sam’s arms.

“Hold these.” I growled, rolling up my sleeves as I stormed over to the vendor.

“Super Stranger!” Kiro called in a harsh whisper, “Wait!”

“Oh ho!” The vendor bellowed as I approached, “Are you accepting my offer! That was quick! That guy must really-” I opened my wallet and pulled out a handful of cash. I shoved it forward and to the man.

“Mallet.” I demanded, “Now.” The vendor looked taken aback. 

“Oh really?” He hummed, leaning closer to me, “And what makes you think a pretty girl like you can beat this game?”

“My lifelong passion to put jackasses in their place.” I spoke in a dark tone, dropping the smile the vendor held slightly, “Mallet.” The vendor remained motionless, keeping the large mallet tight in his grip. Eventually, he chuckled, yanking the money out of my hand and tossing me the mallet.

“Good luck, princess!” He scoffed, shoving the money into his pocket haphazardly, “You’re gonna need it.”

I spun the mallet in my hand, looking up at the high striker. Hatred for the vendor boiled in my chest. This isn’t any good. I huffed as I looked at the crowd, I’m going to break the game at this point. No matter how badly I want to show that jerk who he is messing with, I can’t out myself like this. Not with everything that was going on in my life. I need to calm down. I caught Sam’s eyes. He smiled widely at me and held two thumbs up. I smiled and looked at Kiro. Kiro was smiling genuinely at me. He mouthed the words, “You can do it!” The hatred in my stomach snuffed out as a new feeling overcame my chest. Something warm and welcoming. I had felt this feeling before but, after such a great day with those two, it was so strong. It was the strongest I had ever felt in my life. 

I smiled and turned around. I held up the mallet and, being sure of my decision, readied myself in front of the pressure plate. The crowd around us went completely silent, making the sounds of the games around us almost intrusive to the scene. 

I took a deep breath and closed my eyes. I channeled the power they gave me. I imagined it’s warmth flowing through my chest, down through my arms, all the way up to my fingertips. The feeling was empowering, clearing every horrible thought and feeling in my body. It was like taking a shower after a week. 

It was amazing. 

After a long moment, I threw my eyes open and brought the mallet down hard on the pressure plate. The small metal peg rocketed off the pad and flew up the machine, eventually hitting the bell with a resounding clang. The sound echoed through the center, echoing through the park and it’s stands. The crowd craned their necks to see the bell as we waited for the peg to fall… but it didn’t. I had hit the peg so hard that it had lodged itself under the bell, not showing any sign of coming back down. 

After a long moment of silence, someone cheered. And, as if a wave of realization hit the crowd, everyone else joined in. Loud woops and whistles snug my ears as I slowly realized just what I had done. I shiteatting grin spread onto my lips as I looked down at the mallet in my hand. I clicked my tongue as I turned back to the vendor. He was staring at the bell with a look of complete shock adorning his face. A warm drumming pushed through my stomach as I approached the vendor. “Hey.” I boomed, breaking the man of whatever trance he was in. He quickly looked down at me, eyes bulging from his head. My smile grew as I held out the mallet’s handle to him, “I think I’m owed a bike.”

>>>

Sam skipped merrily beside Kiro and I, his brand new bike rolling beautifully at his side. Most people after the demonstration thought I was just an actor to promote the game so I wasn’t questioned when I walked away with the bike. In fact, people would whisper and point as I walked past them. 

Not that any of that mattered.

 The shine in Sam’s eyes as I handed him the bike made everything worth it.

“You seem to be in a good mood, kiddo.” I teased as I watched Sam.

“Of course I am!” He laughed, smiling brightly to me, “Imagine how jealous the soccer team will be when they see me coming to practice with this!” I smiled and sighed as Sam started talking more to himself than to me. 

“Sam isn’t the only one who looks happy, Stranger.” Kiro grinned, inspecting my face thoroughly. I felt my face. I really had been smiling for a while. My jaw ached from the constant use of the only muscles I never worked out. 

“That’s because I am.” I said softly. I looked up at the graying sky and took a deep breath, taking in the fresh evening smell that was setting in. The warm feeling in my stomach didn’t leave me. In fact, it had spread to the rest of my body as well. It was a soft feeling, but a welcomed feeling nonetheless. This feeling was completely new to me. It was something I hadn’t experienced in my 23 years of living. And, even though I was still being targeted and had millions of other responsibilities that I needed to take care of, in that moment, all was well. I was happy… 

I was happy.

“I can’t get over that vendor’s face.” Sam snickered, making me open my eyes and look over to him, “I mean, did you see it?! It was priceless!!”

“Right?!” Kiro chimed in, laughing giddily, “Those people who accused you of being an actor would have eaten their words if they saw how dumbfounded he looked!”

“Did you see the way his Adam’s apple wobbled in fear as Ike walked over to him?!” Sam excitedly patted Kiro’s arm.

“He looked as if he were ready to scream!”

 Kiro and Sam laughed heartily, leaning on the other for support. I rolled my eyes. Though I put on a face, they were right. The man did look pretty funny after I had  hit that bell. It took a couple seconds for him to notice me standing in front of him. And even then, he stared at me for a while, unsure if I would hurt him or not. He really should have been scared. After what he had said to me, I was even surprised that I didn’t hurt him. 

 The warm drumming in my stomach reappeared. 

A buzzing coming from my blazer pocket pulled me from my thoughts. I pulled out my phone and turned it on. A number I hadn’t seen in quite a while popped on screen. I stopped in my tracks.

“You guys hungry?” I asked, grinning widely.

(Next)

[ikenbar]

Mr. Love: Ike's Choice CH5 PT6

Hehehe some Kiro angst is here!! And some fluff and resolution as well!! This'll be a good part so stay tuned!! :D

Warnings: One curse word but other then that its literally just angst, fluff, and resolution. Unless you got a problem with cliffhangers. Then you got another thing coming...

(Chapter Five (Kiro and Youran) Prologue and part one, two, three, four and five can be found here~)

((Please read the author’s note (and the beginning of the story) on chapter one part one if you’re new here :D))

Chapter Five:

Part six:

After that day, we had rescheduled the shooting for a couple days later that week. When the day came, I didn’t attend. Leaving Bart to take care of the field work as usual as I returned to behind my desk. Where I was meant to be.

It had taken some time but I was finally able to convince Victor to let me drive a car alone. Granted, It had GPS tracking so I was never really alone but it was nice to finally have control of my driving again. The drive to and from work where I was alone and lost in my thoughts that I dreaded being lost in. Being in control of the driving stopped me from going mad.

 I had sent my phone to be fixed and it returned to me as good as new. I was told that there had been a virus in it. Even though I didn’t believe them, it was nice to have my phone back. But with my newly fixed phone, I had gotten phone call after phone call from people. I only answered a select few, ignoring the ones from Gavin and Kiro. Youran would call too. No matter how badly I wanted to be left alone, I couldn’t just leave her hanging.

Youran was really understanding and, though she didn’t know what had happened, she was willing to help me feel better. Offering coffee dates in the morning just to talk or to even jog with me on the weekends. I tried telling her no. I tried pushing her away to be left alone. I wanted space to think… but the moment I saw her smiling eyes in my mind, I swayed into agreeing to anything she asked.

Youran had posted an interview with the Key. Clearing his name and posing the fact that he was really framed and someone else had been using his name. After it was posted, the hacking had stopped and our websites were back to normal. I had tried listening to the interview but couldn’t make it all the way through without the memories from under the studio sending me into a migraine. 

I had spent most of my time working but it was just to keep out of my mind. When I wasn’t working, I was working on the board I had put together in my apartment. It had all the information that I had about Montu and, now, Black Swan. Though there wasn’t much, it was something. Gavin often knocked at my door to check on me. But after a week of no answer, he stopped coming by.

Two weeks had passed and I was in my office working on my biweekly report for Victor when a soft knocking came from the door. I looked up and saw Minor standing there, smiling kindly and holding a mug in his hands. “Yes?” I asked, returning my attention to my computer.

“You’ve been working so hard this past week,” Minor walked into the room and placed the drink down in front of me, “I figured you could use a break! Stretch your legs, brighten the mind...” I glanced at the drink. Minor noticed and said, “It’s hot chocolate! It’s supposed to be comforting!”

“I’m fine.” I said impassively, returning my focus to the computer. Minor drummed his fingers on the mug.

“...You know,” He sighed, “Everyone is worried about you. No one can remember the last time you’ve eaten. Or… left the office in general. You’re here before anyone else is and are still here when everyone has left… Gavin even told me you’ve been ignoring him… Miss. Ike, you need to re-”

“I appreciate your concern,” I spoke impassively, “But I’m fine. It’s just work. And, with everything that happened a couple of weeks ago-” I stopped for a second as images flashed into my mind from that day, “... we are running behind schedule.” I pinched the bridge of my nose, steaming the pain that rose in my temples. Minor reached out to me but was cut off by the sound of an alarm going off on my phone. I picked it up and stood from my chair. “I’ve got to pick up my brother. I’ll be back in ten minutes. When I come back, I want this drink off my desk.”

Minor sighed, “Yes mam.”

>>>

I was sitting at the steering wheel reading my emails as I waited for Sam to come out of class. The passenger side door opened and Sam popped into the car excitedly. “Hey, Ike!” He sung, “How are you?”

“Fine.” The word had lost its meaning at this point, “How was school?”

“Not bad, but I heard something today!” Sam spoke quickly as I turned the car on, “Someone said the Carnival was in town! Can we go??” I froze.

>>>

“Did you hear!?” Kiro spoke excitedly over the phone, “The carnival is coming to town! We should go together!”

“Kiro, don’t you realize how dangerous this could be?” I sighed, “If word got out that you were at the carnival-”

“I’ll be safe! I promise!!” Kiro pleaded, “Come on, Super Stranger! I want to hang out with you!” My face grew hot as I stayed speechless. Superstar Kiro wanted to hangout with me! Of all people! “What? You don’t seriously think this my first time in public, do you?” Kiro teased, “I’ll wear a disguise! We’ll be fine! Trust me!”

>>>

I grimised and shook my head. “No.” I answered resoundly, shifting the car out of park.

“Aw come on!” Sam whined, “But it’s friday! And they’ll be gone by this weekend”

“No, Sam.”

“But I feel like I haven’t seen you all week!” Sam pouted, “You haven’t been over for dinner and we rarely talk when you pick me up... You’ve been so distant.” I paused, tapping on the steering wheel. Feeling Sam's eyes on me, I flashed a glance at him. His eyes were pleading. A pain shot through my chest.  “I… I know something happened to you last week.” Sam started playing with his backpack. “And even though you won’t tell me what happened exactly, I miss you… Please, Ike?” I tightened my grip on the wheel and glared at the road. Unable to help myself, I looked over to Sam. He was wearing the puppy eyes that he had used countless times before. I quickly looked back at the road.

Not again. I will not let those damn eyes get to me again…. No… no!... damn it.

I sighed deeply and, after stopping at a stop light, pulled out my phone. I dialed a number then held my phone up to my ear.

“Hello! This is Ikamara Bikira’s office!” Minor chimed, “She is currently out right now but I can leave a message!”

“Minor, it’s me.” I said, rubbing the bridge of my nose, “I’m not coming back to the office. I’m… taking that break.” Sam cheered from next to me.

“Really?!” Minor excitedly asked, “What made you change your mind? Was it my speech?!”

“No. It was my power hungry brother." I playfully glared at Sam, "Tell the office that if they need anything they should go to Bart before calling me… and not a word of this is to be repeated to Gavin, understand?!”

>>>

“Where should we go first!?” Asked a very all over the place Sam. We were standing at the front gate of the carnival. Screams and music played with our ears as the smell of fried goods and sweet treats did our noses. “We could go on the rides! Or play the games! I thought I saw a shooting game!! Ike, are you still a good shot?!”

“Of course I am.” I said as I looked around, “Just remember, we are only here for a little bit. I still have work I need to get back to”

“Don’t you always?” Sighed Sam, “Just enjoy the time spent with your favorite foster brother!! So, where do you want to go first??” 

“The ticket desk.” I arched an eyebrow, “Before we go anywhere, we need to pay for-” I was cut short as a bear approached us. Or more, a man in a bear costume.

“Ho ho ho!” He laughed, doing a little jig, “Welcome to the carnival! I’m Chuckles the Bear!” Chuckles chuckled, further extenuating his point, “Would you folks like to win some free tickets?!”

“Boy, would we!” Sam jumped excitedly. I hesitated. Something about this bear seemed familiar.

“Alright, little boy!” Chuckles patted Sam’s head, “All you gotta do is answer one question! Ready?” Sam nodded seriously, bracing himself.

“What color…” Chuckles paused for dramatic effect, “... is the sky?!” Sam threw his head up in the air.

“Well, today it’s looking pretty blue.” He said, pursing his lips slightly.

“Ding ding ding! We have a winner!!” Chuckles reached into his pocket and pulled out a large batch of tickets. He handed them out to Sam, “Here you go little boy!”

“Yay!!” Sam cheered and took the tickets. He held them out victoriously to me, “Now we don’t have to pay for tickets!” 

“Yeah...” I said slowly, looking up at the bear, “Thanks.”

“No problem!” Chuckles chuckled, “Just a little nice deed from your good ol friend Chuckles! I’ll see you folks around the park!” Chuckles turned and waved goodbye to us. Sam waved enthusiastically back.

“Bye!” He called, “And thank you!!” I narrowed my eyes. 

“Something about that bear was fishy.” I murmured.

“Who cares?!” Sam grabbed my hand again, “Let’s go!”

With that, Sam and I explored the park. We went on rides, played games, ate food. I was quick to notice that Chuckles was never too far from us. He was either selling balloons close by, playing a game a couple of stalls away, he even manned the cotton candy stand when we bought some. Though, the term 'bought' was used lightly as he wouldn’t let us pay for it.

Eventually, I had had enough.

I approached Chuckles from behind as he was handing a balloon to a little girl. “Here you are!” He said gleefully, “Thank you for the candy!!”

“What kind of employee trades a balloon for a piece of candy?” I asked, making Chuckles jump, “It’s a terrible way to run a carnival if you ask me.”

“Though, no one is complaining!” Sam spoke up from next to me, pulling his nearly full cart of prizes with him, “You can keep giving away free stuff if you feel like it! Especially to us!” I narrowed my eyes and folded my arms.

“What’s your deal?” I growled, “You’ve been following us all day.” 

“What are you talking about, Miss. Lady?!” Chuckles shrugged and rocked back and forth, feigning childlike innocence, “I’m just a kind and harmless bear!”

“I want answers, bear.” I snapped, startling the bear once again, “Don’t think I’m above beheading you in front of all these children.”

“Ok! Ok!” The bear’s voice had changed dramatically, “I’ll tell you just don’t take off my head! You’ll only end up making a scene.” I froze. I knew that voice all too well. Though it had been a long time since I had heard it.

“Kiro?” I asked in a harsh whisper. Chuckles looked around then lifted his head. A bright blue eyed Kiro smiled at me nervously.

“Hey, Super Stranger.” He laughed weakly, “Long time no see!” Sam gasped dramatically from next to me.

“KI-” He started. I threw my hand over his mouth.

“Shh!!” Kiro and I said quickly. Kiro dropped his bear head and looked around again.

“Can we talk somewhere a bit more private?” He asked through the mask.

>>>

“Coast is clear.” I let down the flap to the cleaning tent and walked back to the boys. Kiro took off his bear costume and sighed.

“Thank goodness.” He breathed, “That costume was so hot.”

“It’s Kiro!” Sam whispered excitedly as he jumped in place, “Ike! Ike, look! It’s Kiro!!”

“I know.” I scowled, folding my arms across my chest, “What are you doing here, Kiro?"

“I wanted to see the carnival!” Kiro smiled weakly at me. I deepened my glare, “And…. I also wanted to see you.” I scoffed and rolled my eyes. Sam stared at the both of us, awestruck.

“Ike!!” Said Sam, exasperatedly, “Kiro just said he wanted to see you?!?! What haven’t you been telling me!?”

“Remember when I got trapped under the studio and came out a mess?”

“Yeah?”

“He is the reason that happened.”

Sam gasped dramatically and scooted closer to me. Kiro sighed, “I thought I told you it wasn’t me! Didn’t you see Youran’s interview?”

“Yeah, I’m still not convinced.” I growled.

“Well, what can I do to convince you??" Kiro took a step closer to me, "Would you like more tickets? How bout a ride on the ferris wheel! I can get you the best seats! You can overlook all of Loveland from there!”

“Pass.” I turned around to the tent opening, “Goodbye, Key.”

“Ike, please.” Kiro grabbed my arm, “Please let me make this up to you. I hate the idea that you hate me. Just, let me do something! Or, better yet, you do something! Yell at me! Beat me if you want!” I stayed where I was, fighting with the anger in my chest. This man just treated me the same as everyone else did in my life, and he expects me just to let it go?! “W-wait!” Kiro turned me around and reached into his pocket. He pulled out a little white handkerchief. “Don’t you want this back?” He asked, handing it to me. I didn’t take it. I just stared at it as memories of all the times he got hurt poured into my mind. It was all because of me! Why was he fighting so hard to come back to me? It seemed wrong. What was he trying to prove?!

Kiro sighed and dropped his hand to his side. “i know I hurt you.” His voice cracked. , “I know there are things I need to make up for and I understand it can take some time… I-I just… want to be your sidekick again.” Kiro’s last words were enough to obliterate whatever anger had. I fought to bring it back. He lied to you! He broke your heart! I repeated that in my head as I finally looked up at  him. Kiro’s eyes were sparkling. But it wasn’t the regular sparkle that made fans weak. It was the kind of sparkle that came from the water that pooled under his eyes. 

My heart shattered. 

I made Kiro cry.

 I was probably the only person on earth to make Kiro cry. That was a badge I never wanted to bear. 

I relaxed my body as I looked at him. Time seemed to pass slowly as we held our breaths, struggling to keep the silence. Eventually, Sam tugged at my shirt. “I know I’m supposed to hate him right now,” Sam said with a strain in his voice, “but even I can’t be angry at that face.” Kiro shifted his eyes to Sam.

“Sorry.” He said, struggling to maintain his smile through a forced chuckle, “I-” I walked up to Kiro, cutting him off. I took the handkerchief and brushed it under his eye, stopping a tear from rolling down his cheek. Kiro’s eyes flashed a look of surprise. I examined his face a little longer. Then sighed and rested my head on his shoulder.

“... Why did you have to pull the sidekick card?” I said, punching him weakly on the arm. Kiro’s body tensed. I shook my head and pulled him into an hug. Kiro stalled a moment, but it didn’t take him long to reciprocate. He held me tightly as we stood together in silence. I tightened my grip on him. I was afraid that, if we separated, something would happen to make me lose him. To lose myself. He brought me so much light. How could I have just let that go?

After a long moment, I felt something hit my side. I looked down. Sam had invited himself in on the hug. I smiled and patted his head. Kiro looked down at Sam, wiping his face as he laughed. “Hey, kid.” Kiro rubbed Sam’s head, “If you wanted a hug, just say so!”

“Really?!” Sam beamed. 

“Why don’t we get out of this tent first?” I pushed away from the boys’ embrace and pocketed my handkerchief. Kiro looked at me hopefully. 

“Can... I join you?” He asked, anticipation dripping from his tongue.

“It’s to be expected.” I arched an eyebrow and folded my arms, “I do believe I promised a certain someone a day at the carnival.” I smirked. Kiro smiled brightly, sending the long missed feeling of butterflies in my stomach. That smile didn’t last long though as Kiro suddenly frowned.

“Wait, does this mean I have to put back on the bear suit?”

(Next)