Digimon Fan Fiction ❯ On The Line ❯ Chapter 13 ( Chapter 13 )
[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]
By: archforge 
Sometimes you just got to tell...
Anime/Manga: Digimon Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Comedy / Angst / Adventure / Romance | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 02.06.2003 | Pages: 8 | Words: 3.9K | Visits: 256 | Status: Work In Progress
Sometimes you just got to tell...
Anime/Manga: Digimon Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Comedy / Angst / Adventure / Romance | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 02.06.2003 | Pages: 8 | Words: 3.9K | Visits: 256 | Status: Work In Progress
Disclaimer:
I don't own anything about Digimon.No money is being made and no copyright or
trademark infringement is intended.
Author Notes:
Okay apologises again for being late, first it was because when the problems with fanfic.net
started to happen I began to laze around more. Thus causing the dreaded slippery slope
affect, then I got major case of writers block for the next few weeks till I got off my
but and began to force myself to write.
Oh and I'm raising the ratings of this thing to PG13, I'm not sure what the ratings should
be but I'm not turning this to a smut fest I'm staying clean and in the family area...
For now... Hehehe... *COUGH* Sorry.
Well I got a job right now so it'll be harder for me to keep writing but do not worry I've
already written out four pages of the next chapter and going to write the fifth one in a
few minutes. Oh, BTW this chapter is longer because I thought you guys deserve an apology.
Also since I haven't been writing for some time the beginning isn't all that great, I like
my writing at the end but the beginning is a bit boring I feel... Oh well.
Oh... Oh... I'll also like to thank the hardworkers on Fanfic.net for working so hard,
to maintain this site. I know it's a lot of work! So thanx!
I will now thank the people who have reviewed my fic, you guys keep driving me to write.
SanChan
Private-Bryan
KaraXIII
DragonBlond 04
LB
Jen
Miya
Insomniac Cat
Furor
Kim Hayes
RikaFan1
silentangel
Colliemon
Keara
~Bang
Te enager Rika
keisan
§§Ñ
Valkyrie Rika
Jenrika 4lyfe
Jessantu16
Kara Kasai
Thank-you
******************************
O n The Line
Chapter 13/?
"I am so sorry."
Rika glanced at her longest friend, "It's okay."
"I mean I didn't know they were going to do something like that," apologized Henry still
red from embarrassment.
"It's okay," said Rika continuing to walk towards her house.
"I mean they totally over reacted, they never did that before," said Henry not paying
attention to Rika.
Rika turned to Henry grabbing his shoulder she shook him a bit, "Henry! It's okay."
Henry blinked, "It's okay?"
Rika gave him a small smile, "It's okay."
"Okay," said Henry returning Rika's smile.
Turning back towards the road the two teenagers continued their journey to Rika's home, "It
doesn't mean I'm ever going to look at a banana the same way," said Rika teasingly.
"I was hoping my dad was the only one who did that," groaned Henry.
"Nope," said Rika smirking, "you're going to have to do a lot to live that down Henry."
"Did they give you something too?" asked Henry turning red.
"If you mean something in an aluminium wrapper that would be a yes," said Rika patting her
wallet.
Henry groaned, "I don't believe they did that."
"We did sleep in the same bed Henry," Rika pointed out.
"Now all my mom and dad have to do is show you my baby pictures and share my childhood
stories," said Henry indignant.
"I saw those already," said Rika absently.
"Okay when can I just go and bury myself?" asked Henry modified.
"Right after we talk to my mother I'll join you," said Rika squeezing her boyfriend's hand.
Henry glanced at Rika questioningly.
"My mom is going to do something too," explained Rika keeping her eyes on the road, "we're
probably going to get a talk from my mother too."
"Not the greatest start on a relationship ever huh?" asked Henry raising an eyebrow.
"It could be better," admitted Rika, Henry stopped in his tracks staring at his feet
unsure. Rika turned around to face Henry, "What's wrong?"
"Do you regret this Rika?" asked Henry worried.
Rika's eyes narrowed, "No, do you?"
Henry shook his head, "Never I've wanted this for a long time I just want to make sure this
is okay with you... Everything is going faster then I thought, everything is weirder too."
Rika nodded, "I would have liked having a few weeks or at least a few days to get use to
all this before telling our friends and family."
"We don't have to tell them you know," said Henry glancing at Rika.
"I think our parents already know," said Rika deadpanned.
"No, I mean our friends," said Henry taking Rika's hand into his, "we don't have to tell
our friends if you don't want to."
"You don't mind?"
"If it makes you happy, I'll be happy," said Henry truthfully.
Rika stared at Henry, trying to determine whether he was lying or not, after a few seconds
Rika's eyes widened realisation that Henry was telling the truth, "You mean it don't you..."
Henry nodded still keeping eye contact with Rika.
Rika looked away from Henry thinking hard, "I want to tell them Henry... But it's just
this is new..."
"Then we don't tell them," said Henry smiling.
"Are you sure about this?" asked Rika looking at Henry unsure.
Henry turned back towards the direction of Rika's home and started to walk again, "Sure I'm
sure."
Rika smiled and continued to walk with Henry to her home.
Soon both teenagers found themselves outside Rika's home staring at the door, both not
making a move to open the door. "You know I never felt this nervous being here," said
Henry giving Rika a nervous smile.
Rika shrugged, "After that speech from your parents I don't think my mother has anything to
throw at us."
Henry turned to Rika in amusement, "I don't know your mother is full of surprises."
"Ready to go?" asked Rika looking at Henry.
"One more thing," said Henry placed his hands on Rika's arms, leaning forward he pressed
his lips against hers.
Rika sighed running her hands up Henry's arms they wrapped themselves behind Henry's neck
running themselves through his dark blue hair, while his traveled down to her waist pulling
each other closer.
Pulling away from each other gently Henry smiled, "Thanks I need that for luck."
Rika gave him a smirk but before she could reply she noticed the front door to her home was
open and standing there was her mother with her arms crossed.
Henry noticed Rika's eyes was staring at the door closing his own eyes, he groaned, "This
is not a great way to start things is it?"
"I think you both should come inside," said Ms. Nonaka amused.
Letting each other go the two teenagers marched into the house.
****************************
Rika's mother led them to the living room, "Rika Charles is here and wants to talk to you."
"About what?" asked Rika annoyed, Charles Tachaki was both her mother's and her own
manager. Charles was an interesting person the most noticeable thing about Charles was he
was built like a square. He was five foot even and nearly the same in width, the man was
built like a sumo wrester, fat but very muscular.
"Rika!" shouted Charles his bright blue eyes twinkled with glee.
"Hi," said Rika nodding to her manager impassivity, Charles had a strange personality or
the better word would be personalities. The man was sometimes like a child taking delight
in small things and tugging along a stuff beaver which he carried conversations with.
Other times he would be so high strung when something goes wrong he starts running around
the room like a mad man. Then there were times when something doesn't go his way and he
cries about it. Finally there was his business side where he would be able to get anything
done all in all he was surprising the best manager in Asia if not the world.
"It's so good to see you again Rika," said Charles excited, pulling out his stuff beaver he
waved it in front of Rika's face, "Nibbles missed you a lot."
"Right," said Rika dryly glancing at Henry who had an amused face on.
"You must be Henry," said Charles exuberantly.
"Yes I am," said Henry shaking Charles offered hand.
Rika frowned she never wanted Henry to meet Charles, in fact they never met till now, she
wanted Henry to be apart from her modeling life. Rika only agreed to start modeling part
time because it was a way to spend some time with her mother and get some spending money.
"Excellent, excellent," said Charles rubbing his hands together motioning to a couch,
"please, please sit down."
Henry caught a look from Rika she was uncomfortable for some reason, giving her a small nod
Henry sat down with Rika but made sure they weren't touching.
Charles frowned, "Rika I'm your manager right?"
"As far as I remember," said Rika smirking.
"I've been a good manager right?" asked Charles giving Rika a puppy face.
Rika gave Charles a small nod, "You are good at your job."
"Then why don't you tell me anything?" asked Charles his blue eyes tearing up.
Rika frowned uncomfortably, "Tell you things?"
Charles handed Rika a familiar magazine, with his eyes full of tears.
Rika grimaced as Henry looked over her shoulder the magazine was opened to page twenty-two,
Henry eyes widened in surprise when he saw the picture of the two. "It gets worse,"
murmured Rika under her breath, "read the article."
Henry glanced at Rika after he read the article, "You knew?" asked Henry.
Rika nodded keeping the magazine up so it hid her face, "Ryo showed me."
"Why didn't you tell me?" asked Henry.
Rika glanced at Henry whose face was neutral, "I didn't get the chance." Putting down the
magazine she turned her attention back to Charles, "So?"
"Why didn't you tell me?" asked Charles tears streaming down his face, "You could have told
me, I mean I could have worked it out to be really good publicity or at least I wouldn't
have been surprised when one of my contacts told me over the phone."
Rika raised an eyebrow unbothered by Charles crying, "I have to tell you when I'm going to
a concert with a friend?"
Charles immediately stopped crying blinking at Rika he turned to his stuff beaver, "Did she
just said friend?" Manipulating the stuff beaver as if it was alive Charles started to
speak in an squeaky voice, "I think she did maybe they're just friends." Thinking for a
second Charles turned back to Rika and Henry, "You two are just friends?"
Rika glanced at Henry for a second, turning to Charles, "Its sort of complicated."
"Complicated?" squeaked Charles looking at his stuff beaver.
"You see," began Rika glancing at Henry for support.
Henry shrugged uncomfortably, "You see," Henry began slowly, "its sort of more on the line
like... Well..."
"What?" asked Charles exasperated.
"Charles," began Rika pressing her fingers together nervously, "I need you to do some
manager things for me."
"That's why I'm here," said Charles smiling brightly.
"Henry and I have started dating," said Rika quickly.
"That's wonderful," squeaked Charles manipulating Mr. Nibbles, "now we can start..."
"I want to keep this quiet," interrupted Rika.
Charles jaw dropped, "Why?"
"It's just... It's just I don't want this to turn into a big deal," said Rika.
"Rika, you have to understand you are a rising star, you are getting movie offers too,"
said Charles patiently, "you're going to be a bigger success then your mother and this is
not going to be easy keeping quiet."
Rika sighed, "Please?"
Charles eyes widened, standing up with a determined look on his face as well as Mr. Nibbles,
"We'll do our best Rika."
"Now that that is settled, I need to talk to Henry and Rika," said Rika's mother, giving
Charles a piercing look, "alone."
"Okay," said Charles, "I have to go anyways I'm late to a meeting."
Waiting patiently Ms. Nonako waited till her manager left, turning back to the two
teenagers she stared at Henry. A few seconds passed with Rika's mother not saying a word,
Henry shifted uncomfortably under Rika's mother's stare. "So you two are dating," said Ms.
Nonako, it wasn't a question.
Both teenagers looked at each other uncomfortably.
****************************
"We ll that went well," said Henry lying on Rika's floor.
"Could have been worst," agreed Rika lying on her bed, glancing down at Henry, "are you
sure you're comfortable?"
"I need to lie down," said Henry glancing at Rika mischievously, "and I don't think it
would bode well for me if I decided to lie down beside you."
Rika threw a pillow at Henry as a response, "So you doing anything today?"
"Actually I sort of am," said Henry, "I have to go with my father to his work, I promised
that I would look over some computer codes for him."
"Oh," said Rika trying to cover up her disappointment.
"How about tomorrow?" asked Henry his voice filled with hope.
"Okay," said Rika smiling.
"It's a date," said Henry returning Rika's smile.
****************************
Henry scowled angrily at the computer screen in front of him, he couldn't find what was
wrong. The program codes all looked proper but for some apparent reason the program
wouldn't start, "Stubborn program," said Henry, "I bet you're just trying to be difficult."
"How's it going son?" asked his father looking over his son's shoulder.
"Not well," said Henry frustrated, "I can't find what's wrong."
Henry's father shifted uncomfortably on his feet, "Well as long as you're in a bad mood I'm
going to have to give you some more bad news Henry."
Henry turned to face his father, "More bad news?"
Mr. Wong nodded his face filled with apologises, "I need you to come in tomorrow."
"But I have... Something to do tomorrow," protested Henry.
"Is it important?" asked his father.
"It might mean my life," muttered Henry, looking up at his father, "yes Dad, I promised."
"Sorry son but on the good side we'll be paying you over time pay tomorrow," said Henry's
father trying cheer up his son.
"I don't care about the money Dad, this is really important," said Henry.
"Sorry," said Mr. Wong patting Henry on the shoulder, "I know you really want to spend
tomorrow with Rika but this is really important, Mr. Yamaki wants you here looking over
these security codes."
"Ugh!" shouted Henry covering his eyes, "Tell me why did I choose to take this job again?"
"Because it's good for your resume and they're paying you really well," said Henry's father
looking at his son with pity.
"Fine but I'm taking the rest of the day off," said Henry shutting down his computer
terminal.
"Alright Henry. Oh, and apologise to Rika for me," said Henry's father as he headed
towards his office.
"You apologise," said Henry bitterly, "she's going to be pissed."
Closing his office door Henry's father sighed, feeling sorry for his son. Putting his
son's problems out of his mind Henry's father returned to his computer to find the problems
in the computer codes.
****************************
Rika sat at her desk staring at her homework, she understood it she even knew the answers
but for some reason she didn't feel like writing out the answers. A knock on the door
awoke her from her slumber, "Come in."
"Are you decent?" came a familiar voice.
"Sort of," said Rika having an idea.
The door to her room opened slowly Henry peered inside Rika's room, it was empty, shrugging
he walked in.
"I'm coming out," came Rika's voice from her washroom.
Henry quickly turned around as the door opened, "You said you were sort of decent," Henry
complained.
Rika smiled she had rolled up her sleeves and had sprinkled water on her arms carrying a
towel she walked up behind Henry, "I was taking a shower."
"Oh," said Henry his ears turning a noticeable red shade.
"So what are you doing here?" asked Rika trying to keep her voice neutral as she approached
Henry.
"I was in the neighbourhood and I took off from work early," said Henry his voice shaking,
"can you get your clothes and put it on in the washroom?"
"Why?" asked Rika as she rested her head on Henry's back and wrapped her arms around Henry
allowing him to see her bare arms, this in turn made Henry's face turn red, Rika could hear
Henry's heart starting to pound away.
"Umm... Maybe I should wait outside," said Henry as he tried to pull away.
Rika let the towel fall, seeing the towel in a puddle Henry bolted from the room, Rika fell
to the floor laughing. Henry outside was sitting on the floor breathing heavily, "Henry
what's wrong?" asked Rika's mother as she saw the wild eye look Henry had.
"Rika," was all Henry was able to get out.
Ms. Nonako opened the door into her daughters room to see her daughter laughing on the
floor holding onto her sides, turning to Henry with sympathy, "I think she was having some
fun with you dear."
Henry was still shaking, "Rika," was all he was able to get out.
"Rika you're really cruel," said Ms. Nonako as she continued down the hall.
Rika came out trying to stifle her laughter seeing her best friend sitting on the floor,
"I'm sorry Henry," she said trying to sound apologetic.
"That wasn't funny," grumbled Henry still shaking slightly.
"It was for me," said Rika kneeling down she kissed Henry on the cheek then on the lips,
pulling away she looked into Henry's eyes. "Sorry?"
Henry smiled, "Okay, you want to hang out for a bit?"
Rika smiled, "Okay."
Soon they were walking around the city, the cool evening breeze blew through the city. "I
got some bad news Rika," said Henry glancing at Rika.
Rika raised an eyebrow, "Enough to make us even for what I did?"
"Might," said Henry depressed, "I got to work tomorrow."
"Why?" asked Rika surprised.
"Mr. Yamaki wants me working on the security codes tomorrow," said Henry frowning, "we sort
of have a deadline and I guess he wants to be ahead of it."
"Can you get someone to cover for you?" asked Rika.
"Not really," said Henry frowning, seeing Rika's disappointed face, "I'm sorry."
Rika shook her head, "No it's okay you can't do anything about it."
"Please don't be mad," pleaded Henry.
"I'm not," said Rika forcing a smile.
Henry sighed, "I really want to spend tomorrow with you."
"I know," said Rika.
"Staring at a computer screen working on codes is far from what I want to do," said Henry.
"I know," said Rika.
"Come on I'll buy you some pizza," said Henry motioning Rika to a pizza joint.
"No let's go to Jeri's," said Rika.
"Wherever you want to go," said Henry walking with Rika towards their friend's restaurant.
Walking into Jeri's family diner, which was crowded they saw a familiar brown hair boy
sitting at the bar talking to a familiar waitress behind the bar. "Hey Takato," said Henry.
Takato turned with a usual bright smile on his face, "Henry, Rika, want to join us?"
Henry glanced at Rika seeing her nod, "Sure."
"So what do you guys want?" asked Jeri as she handed some menus to her friends.
"Chocolate shake please," said Henry.
"Strawberry," said Rika.
"Coming right up," said Jeri cheerfully.
"So what brings you guys here?" asked Takato.
"Grabbing dinner," said Rika.
"And we thought we could grab dinner with you and Jeri," said Henry.
Takato frowned, "How would you know I didn't grab dinner already?"
"Because first it's Saturday," said Henry ticking off his fingers as he counted off his
reasons. "You always grab dinner here on Saturday, second is because Jeri usually gets a
break in ten minutes so you can grab dinner with her. Then you always linger and find
excuses till it's closing here so you can help Jeri cleanup. Finally to complete your
Saturday you hang out with Jeri till midnight."
Takato blushed, "Am I that predicable?"
"Yes," said Rika bluntly not looking up from her menu.
"A seats opened up guys," said Jeri, "I'll bring your drinks there."
"But we came later," said Henry, "shouldn't these people go first?"
Jeri smiled her ears red, "Not when you're with Takato."
Takato coughed uncomfortably as Henry and Rika grinned at their brunette friend.
"Why don't you grab dinner with your friends Jeri," said Jeri's father coming up behind
Takato. "And take the rest of the day off."
Jeri smiled, "Really?"
"Really, you've put in enough overtime," said Jeri's father smiling back at his daughter,
clapping Takato on the shoulder, "besides Takato will be here next week to help cleanup."
"Alright," said Jeri pulling off her apron, "take Henry and Rika to the table eleven Takato
I'll be along with the drinks."
"Okay," said Takato motioning his friends to follow him.
Dinner passed pleasantly as the four friends enjoyed burger, fries, and shakes. "We should
do this more often," said Takato glancing at Rika and Henry as they walked towards the
arcades.
"Hmm," agreed Jeri holding onto Takato's hand.
Rika and Henry glanced at each other with a small smile on their face, "We'll see," said
Rika smiling at the surprise reaction from Jeri and Takato.
Seeing the crowd at the arcade place the boys were quickly elected to fight through the
crowds to get the tickets while the girls waited outside the crowd. "So what's going on
between you two?" asked Jeri as soon as the boys left.
"Between us?" asked Rika glancing over at Jeri.
*****
"Come on buddy," said Takato as he was jostled from the side, "it's me your best friend
here."
"Nothing is really going on," said Henry as he caught a girl who was pushed into him,
helping the girl back to her feet she giggled smiling at Henry.
*****
"I know something is going on," said Jeri frowning.
"Look Jeri nothing is going on," said Rika irritated.
*****
"You know usually I would be hurt for this type of mistrust," said Takato as he finally
reached the counter, "four, till midnight please."
"It's not that I don't trust you Takato," said Henry handing over the money to the teller.
*****
"Really?" asked Jeri giving Rika a look that she didn't believe her.
"Okay," hissed Rika, "it's just I don't want anyone to know yet."
*****
"You're going out?" asked Takato in disbelief.
"Yes," shushed Henry motioning Takato to keep it down as he grabbed the cards from the
teller.
*****
"It is a big deal," said Jeri, "you guys liked each other since forever and you've never
made a move at each other."
"Keep it down," whispered Rika glancing around unable to keep a smile off her face.
*****
"So how's it going?" asked Takato.
"I can't get this smile off my face," Henry replied with a laugh.
*****
"That's a really good sign," said Jeri hopping up and down in joy for her friend.
"Stop that," snapped Rika but was unable to stop smiling.
*****
"We're back," said Takato seeing his girlfriend smiling.
"You told her," said Henry seeing Rika trying to hide her smile.
"You told him," said Rika smiling.
Henry smiled, "Nobody else."
"Nobody else," agreed Rika.
"Promise," said Jeri and Takato together.
"Well shall we?" asked Henry holding up the four cards.
"Let's go," said Jeri slipping her arm through Takato's.
"Let's," said Rika taking Henry's hand.
I don't own anything about Digimon.No money is being made and no copyright or
trademark infringement is intended.
Author Notes:
Okay apologises again for being late, first it was because when the problems with fanfic.net
started to happen I began to laze around more. Thus causing the dreaded slippery slope
affect, then I got major case of writers block for the next few weeks till I got off my
but and began to force myself to write.
Oh and I'm raising the ratings of this thing to PG13, I'm not sure what the ratings should
be but I'm not turning this to a smut fest I'm staying clean and in the family area...
For now... Hehehe... *COUGH* Sorry.
Well I got a job right now so it'll be harder for me to keep writing but do not worry I've
already written out four pages of the next chapter and going to write the fifth one in a
few minutes. Oh, BTW this chapter is longer because I thought you guys deserve an apology.
Also since I haven't been writing for some time the beginning isn't all that great, I like
my writing at the end but the beginning is a bit boring I feel... Oh well.
Oh... Oh... I'll also like to thank the hardworkers on Fanfic.net for working so hard,
to maintain this site. I know it's a lot of work! So thanx!
I will now thank the people who have reviewed my fic, you guys keep driving me to write.
SanChan
Private-Bryan
KaraXIII
DragonBlond 04
LB
Jen
Miya
Insomniac Cat
Furor
Kim Hayes
RikaFan1
silentangel
Colliemon
Keara
~Bang
Te enager Rika
keisan
§§Ñ
Valkyrie Rika
Jenrika 4lyfe
Jessantu16
Kara Kasai
Thank-you
******************************
O n The Line
Chapter 13/?
"I am so sorry."
Rika glanced at her longest friend, "It's okay."
"I mean I didn't know they were going to do something like that," apologized Henry still
red from embarrassment.
"It's okay," said Rika continuing to walk towards her house.
"I mean they totally over reacted, they never did that before," said Henry not paying
attention to Rika.
Rika turned to Henry grabbing his shoulder she shook him a bit, "Henry! It's okay."
Henry blinked, "It's okay?"
Rika gave him a small smile, "It's okay."
"Okay," said Henry returning Rika's smile.
Turning back towards the road the two teenagers continued their journey to Rika's home, "It
doesn't mean I'm ever going to look at a banana the same way," said Rika teasingly.
"I was hoping my dad was the only one who did that," groaned Henry.
"Nope," said Rika smirking, "you're going to have to do a lot to live that down Henry."
"Did they give you something too?" asked Henry turning red.
"If you mean something in an aluminium wrapper that would be a yes," said Rika patting her
wallet.
Henry groaned, "I don't believe they did that."
"We did sleep in the same bed Henry," Rika pointed out.
"Now all my mom and dad have to do is show you my baby pictures and share my childhood
stories," said Henry indignant.
"I saw those already," said Rika absently.
"Okay when can I just go and bury myself?" asked Henry modified.
"Right after we talk to my mother I'll join you," said Rika squeezing her boyfriend's hand.
Henry glanced at Rika questioningly.
"My mom is going to do something too," explained Rika keeping her eyes on the road, "we're
probably going to get a talk from my mother too."
"Not the greatest start on a relationship ever huh?" asked Henry raising an eyebrow.
"It could be better," admitted Rika, Henry stopped in his tracks staring at his feet
unsure. Rika turned around to face Henry, "What's wrong?"
"Do you regret this Rika?" asked Henry worried.
Rika's eyes narrowed, "No, do you?"
Henry shook his head, "Never I've wanted this for a long time I just want to make sure this
is okay with you... Everything is going faster then I thought, everything is weirder too."
Rika nodded, "I would have liked having a few weeks or at least a few days to get use to
all this before telling our friends and family."
"We don't have to tell them you know," said Henry glancing at Rika.
"I think our parents already know," said Rika deadpanned.
"No, I mean our friends," said Henry taking Rika's hand into his, "we don't have to tell
our friends if you don't want to."
"You don't mind?"
"If it makes you happy, I'll be happy," said Henry truthfully.
Rika stared at Henry, trying to determine whether he was lying or not, after a few seconds
Rika's eyes widened realisation that Henry was telling the truth, "You mean it don't you..."
Henry nodded still keeping eye contact with Rika.
Rika looked away from Henry thinking hard, "I want to tell them Henry... But it's just
this is new..."
"Then we don't tell them," said Henry smiling.
"Are you sure about this?" asked Rika looking at Henry unsure.
Henry turned back towards the direction of Rika's home and started to walk again, "Sure I'm
sure."
Rika smiled and continued to walk with Henry to her home.
Soon both teenagers found themselves outside Rika's home staring at the door, both not
making a move to open the door. "You know I never felt this nervous being here," said
Henry giving Rika a nervous smile.
Rika shrugged, "After that speech from your parents I don't think my mother has anything to
throw at us."
Henry turned to Rika in amusement, "I don't know your mother is full of surprises."
"Ready to go?" asked Rika looking at Henry.
"One more thing," said Henry placed his hands on Rika's arms, leaning forward he pressed
his lips against hers.
Rika sighed running her hands up Henry's arms they wrapped themselves behind Henry's neck
running themselves through his dark blue hair, while his traveled down to her waist pulling
each other closer.
Pulling away from each other gently Henry smiled, "Thanks I need that for luck."
Rika gave him a smirk but before she could reply she noticed the front door to her home was
open and standing there was her mother with her arms crossed.
Henry noticed Rika's eyes was staring at the door closing his own eyes, he groaned, "This
is not a great way to start things is it?"
"I think you both should come inside," said Ms. Nonaka amused.
Letting each other go the two teenagers marched into the house.
****************************
Rika's mother led them to the living room, "Rika Charles is here and wants to talk to you."
"About what?" asked Rika annoyed, Charles Tachaki was both her mother's and her own
manager. Charles was an interesting person the most noticeable thing about Charles was he
was built like a square. He was five foot even and nearly the same in width, the man was
built like a sumo wrester, fat but very muscular.
"Rika!" shouted Charles his bright blue eyes twinkled with glee.
"Hi," said Rika nodding to her manager impassivity, Charles had a strange personality or
the better word would be personalities. The man was sometimes like a child taking delight
in small things and tugging along a stuff beaver which he carried conversations with.
Other times he would be so high strung when something goes wrong he starts running around
the room like a mad man. Then there were times when something doesn't go his way and he
cries about it. Finally there was his business side where he would be able to get anything
done all in all he was surprising the best manager in Asia if not the world.
"It's so good to see you again Rika," said Charles excited, pulling out his stuff beaver he
waved it in front of Rika's face, "Nibbles missed you a lot."
"Right," said Rika dryly glancing at Henry who had an amused face on.
"You must be Henry," said Charles exuberantly.
"Yes I am," said Henry shaking Charles offered hand.
Rika frowned she never wanted Henry to meet Charles, in fact they never met till now, she
wanted Henry to be apart from her modeling life. Rika only agreed to start modeling part
time because it was a way to spend some time with her mother and get some spending money.
"Excellent, excellent," said Charles rubbing his hands together motioning to a couch,
"please, please sit down."
Henry caught a look from Rika she was uncomfortable for some reason, giving her a small nod
Henry sat down with Rika but made sure they weren't touching.
Charles frowned, "Rika I'm your manager right?"
"As far as I remember," said Rika smirking.
"I've been a good manager right?" asked Charles giving Rika a puppy face.
Rika gave Charles a small nod, "You are good at your job."
"Then why don't you tell me anything?" asked Charles his blue eyes tearing up.
Rika frowned uncomfortably, "Tell you things?"
Charles handed Rika a familiar magazine, with his eyes full of tears.
Rika grimaced as Henry looked over her shoulder the magazine was opened to page twenty-two,
Henry eyes widened in surprise when he saw the picture of the two. "It gets worse,"
murmured Rika under her breath, "read the article."
Henry glanced at Rika after he read the article, "You knew?" asked Henry.
Rika nodded keeping the magazine up so it hid her face, "Ryo showed me."
"Why didn't you tell me?" asked Henry.
Rika glanced at Henry whose face was neutral, "I didn't get the chance." Putting down the
magazine she turned her attention back to Charles, "So?"
"Why didn't you tell me?" asked Charles tears streaming down his face, "You could have told
me, I mean I could have worked it out to be really good publicity or at least I wouldn't
have been surprised when one of my contacts told me over the phone."
Rika raised an eyebrow unbothered by Charles crying, "I have to tell you when I'm going to
a concert with a friend?"
Charles immediately stopped crying blinking at Rika he turned to his stuff beaver, "Did she
just said friend?" Manipulating the stuff beaver as if it was alive Charles started to
speak in an squeaky voice, "I think she did maybe they're just friends." Thinking for a
second Charles turned back to Rika and Henry, "You two are just friends?"
Rika glanced at Henry for a second, turning to Charles, "Its sort of complicated."
"Complicated?" squeaked Charles looking at his stuff beaver.
"You see," began Rika glancing at Henry for support.
Henry shrugged uncomfortably, "You see," Henry began slowly, "its sort of more on the line
like... Well..."
"What?" asked Charles exasperated.
"Charles," began Rika pressing her fingers together nervously, "I need you to do some
manager things for me."
"That's why I'm here," said Charles smiling brightly.
"Henry and I have started dating," said Rika quickly.
"That's wonderful," squeaked Charles manipulating Mr. Nibbles, "now we can start..."
"I want to keep this quiet," interrupted Rika.
Charles jaw dropped, "Why?"
"It's just... It's just I don't want this to turn into a big deal," said Rika.
"Rika, you have to understand you are a rising star, you are getting movie offers too,"
said Charles patiently, "you're going to be a bigger success then your mother and this is
not going to be easy keeping quiet."
Rika sighed, "Please?"
Charles eyes widened, standing up with a determined look on his face as well as Mr. Nibbles,
"We'll do our best Rika."
"Now that that is settled, I need to talk to Henry and Rika," said Rika's mother, giving
Charles a piercing look, "alone."
"Okay," said Charles, "I have to go anyways I'm late to a meeting."
Waiting patiently Ms. Nonako waited till her manager left, turning back to the two
teenagers she stared at Henry. A few seconds passed with Rika's mother not saying a word,
Henry shifted uncomfortably under Rika's mother's stare. "So you two are dating," said Ms.
Nonako, it wasn't a question.
Both teenagers looked at each other uncomfortably.
****************************
"We ll that went well," said Henry lying on Rika's floor.
"Could have been worst," agreed Rika lying on her bed, glancing down at Henry, "are you
sure you're comfortable?"
"I need to lie down," said Henry glancing at Rika mischievously, "and I don't think it
would bode well for me if I decided to lie down beside you."
Rika threw a pillow at Henry as a response, "So you doing anything today?"
"Actually I sort of am," said Henry, "I have to go with my father to his work, I promised
that I would look over some computer codes for him."
"Oh," said Rika trying to cover up her disappointment.
"How about tomorrow?" asked Henry his voice filled with hope.
"Okay," said Rika smiling.
"It's a date," said Henry returning Rika's smile.
****************************
Henry scowled angrily at the computer screen in front of him, he couldn't find what was
wrong. The program codes all looked proper but for some apparent reason the program
wouldn't start, "Stubborn program," said Henry, "I bet you're just trying to be difficult."
"How's it going son?" asked his father looking over his son's shoulder.
"Not well," said Henry frustrated, "I can't find what's wrong."
Henry's father shifted uncomfortably on his feet, "Well as long as you're in a bad mood I'm
going to have to give you some more bad news Henry."
Henry turned to face his father, "More bad news?"
Mr. Wong nodded his face filled with apologises, "I need you to come in tomorrow."
"But I have... Something to do tomorrow," protested Henry.
"Is it important?" asked his father.
"It might mean my life," muttered Henry, looking up at his father, "yes Dad, I promised."
"Sorry son but on the good side we'll be paying you over time pay tomorrow," said Henry's
father trying cheer up his son.
"I don't care about the money Dad, this is really important," said Henry.
"Sorry," said Mr. Wong patting Henry on the shoulder, "I know you really want to spend
tomorrow with Rika but this is really important, Mr. Yamaki wants you here looking over
these security codes."
"Ugh!" shouted Henry covering his eyes, "Tell me why did I choose to take this job again?"
"Because it's good for your resume and they're paying you really well," said Henry's father
looking at his son with pity.
"Fine but I'm taking the rest of the day off," said Henry shutting down his computer
terminal.
"Alright Henry. Oh, and apologise to Rika for me," said Henry's father as he headed
towards his office.
"You apologise," said Henry bitterly, "she's going to be pissed."
Closing his office door Henry's father sighed, feeling sorry for his son. Putting his
son's problems out of his mind Henry's father returned to his computer to find the problems
in the computer codes.
****************************
Rika sat at her desk staring at her homework, she understood it she even knew the answers
but for some reason she didn't feel like writing out the answers. A knock on the door
awoke her from her slumber, "Come in."
"Are you decent?" came a familiar voice.
"Sort of," said Rika having an idea.
The door to her room opened slowly Henry peered inside Rika's room, it was empty, shrugging
he walked in.
"I'm coming out," came Rika's voice from her washroom.
Henry quickly turned around as the door opened, "You said you were sort of decent," Henry
complained.
Rika smiled she had rolled up her sleeves and had sprinkled water on her arms carrying a
towel she walked up behind Henry, "I was taking a shower."
"Oh," said Henry his ears turning a noticeable red shade.
"So what are you doing here?" asked Rika trying to keep her voice neutral as she approached
Henry.
"I was in the neighbourhood and I took off from work early," said Henry his voice shaking,
"can you get your clothes and put it on in the washroom?"
"Why?" asked Rika as she rested her head on Henry's back and wrapped her arms around Henry
allowing him to see her bare arms, this in turn made Henry's face turn red, Rika could hear
Henry's heart starting to pound away.
"Umm... Maybe I should wait outside," said Henry as he tried to pull away.
Rika let the towel fall, seeing the towel in a puddle Henry bolted from the room, Rika fell
to the floor laughing. Henry outside was sitting on the floor breathing heavily, "Henry
what's wrong?" asked Rika's mother as she saw the wild eye look Henry had.
"Rika," was all Henry was able to get out.
Ms. Nonako opened the door into her daughters room to see her daughter laughing on the
floor holding onto her sides, turning to Henry with sympathy, "I think she was having some
fun with you dear."
Henry was still shaking, "Rika," was all he was able to get out.
"Rika you're really cruel," said Ms. Nonako as she continued down the hall.
Rika came out trying to stifle her laughter seeing her best friend sitting on the floor,
"I'm sorry Henry," she said trying to sound apologetic.
"That wasn't funny," grumbled Henry still shaking slightly.
"It was for me," said Rika kneeling down she kissed Henry on the cheek then on the lips,
pulling away she looked into Henry's eyes. "Sorry?"
Henry smiled, "Okay, you want to hang out for a bit?"
Rika smiled, "Okay."
Soon they were walking around the city, the cool evening breeze blew through the city. "I
got some bad news Rika," said Henry glancing at Rika.
Rika raised an eyebrow, "Enough to make us even for what I did?"
"Might," said Henry depressed, "I got to work tomorrow."
"Why?" asked Rika surprised.
"Mr. Yamaki wants me working on the security codes tomorrow," said Henry frowning, "we sort
of have a deadline and I guess he wants to be ahead of it."
"Can you get someone to cover for you?" asked Rika.
"Not really," said Henry frowning, seeing Rika's disappointed face, "I'm sorry."
Rika shook her head, "No it's okay you can't do anything about it."
"Please don't be mad," pleaded Henry.
"I'm not," said Rika forcing a smile.
Henry sighed, "I really want to spend tomorrow with you."
"I know," said Rika.
"Staring at a computer screen working on codes is far from what I want to do," said Henry.
"I know," said Rika.
"Come on I'll buy you some pizza," said Henry motioning Rika to a pizza joint.
"No let's go to Jeri's," said Rika.
"Wherever you want to go," said Henry walking with Rika towards their friend's restaurant.
Walking into Jeri's family diner, which was crowded they saw a familiar brown hair boy
sitting at the bar talking to a familiar waitress behind the bar. "Hey Takato," said Henry.
Takato turned with a usual bright smile on his face, "Henry, Rika, want to join us?"
Henry glanced at Rika seeing her nod, "Sure."
"So what do you guys want?" asked Jeri as she handed some menus to her friends.
"Chocolate shake please," said Henry.
"Strawberry," said Rika.
"Coming right up," said Jeri cheerfully.
"So what brings you guys here?" asked Takato.
"Grabbing dinner," said Rika.
"And we thought we could grab dinner with you and Jeri," said Henry.
Takato frowned, "How would you know I didn't grab dinner already?"
"Because first it's Saturday," said Henry ticking off his fingers as he counted off his
reasons. "You always grab dinner here on Saturday, second is because Jeri usually gets a
break in ten minutes so you can grab dinner with her. Then you always linger and find
excuses till it's closing here so you can help Jeri cleanup. Finally to complete your
Saturday you hang out with Jeri till midnight."
Takato blushed, "Am I that predicable?"
"Yes," said Rika bluntly not looking up from her menu.
"A seats opened up guys," said Jeri, "I'll bring your drinks there."
"But we came later," said Henry, "shouldn't these people go first?"
Jeri smiled her ears red, "Not when you're with Takato."
Takato coughed uncomfortably as Henry and Rika grinned at their brunette friend.
"Why don't you grab dinner with your friends Jeri," said Jeri's father coming up behind
Takato. "And take the rest of the day off."
Jeri smiled, "Really?"
"Really, you've put in enough overtime," said Jeri's father smiling back at his daughter,
clapping Takato on the shoulder, "besides Takato will be here next week to help cleanup."
"Alright," said Jeri pulling off her apron, "take Henry and Rika to the table eleven Takato
I'll be along with the drinks."
"Okay," said Takato motioning his friends to follow him.
Dinner passed pleasantly as the four friends enjoyed burger, fries, and shakes. "We should
do this more often," said Takato glancing at Rika and Henry as they walked towards the
arcades.
"Hmm," agreed Jeri holding onto Takato's hand.
Rika and Henry glanced at each other with a small smile on their face, "We'll see," said
Rika smiling at the surprise reaction from Jeri and Takato.
Seeing the crowd at the arcade place the boys were quickly elected to fight through the
crowds to get the tickets while the girls waited outside the crowd. "So what's going on
between you two?" asked Jeri as soon as the boys left.
"Between us?" asked Rika glancing over at Jeri.
*****
"Come on buddy," said Takato as he was jostled from the side, "it's me your best friend
here."
"Nothing is really going on," said Henry as he caught a girl who was pushed into him,
helping the girl back to her feet she giggled smiling at Henry.
*****
"I know something is going on," said Jeri frowning.
"Look Jeri nothing is going on," said Rika irritated.
*****
"You know usually I would be hurt for this type of mistrust," said Takato as he finally
reached the counter, "four, till midnight please."
"It's not that I don't trust you Takato," said Henry handing over the money to the teller.
*****
"Really?" asked Jeri giving Rika a look that she didn't believe her.
"Okay," hissed Rika, "it's just I don't want anyone to know yet."
*****
"You're going out?" asked Takato in disbelief.
"Yes," shushed Henry motioning Takato to keep it down as he grabbed the cards from the
teller.
*****
"It is a big deal," said Jeri, "you guys liked each other since forever and you've never
made a move at each other."
"Keep it down," whispered Rika glancing around unable to keep a smile off her face.
*****
"So how's it going?" asked Takato.
"I can't get this smile off my face," Henry replied with a laugh.
*****
"That's a really good sign," said Jeri hopping up and down in joy for her friend.
"Stop that," snapped Rika but was unable to stop smiling.
*****
"We're back," said Takato seeing his girlfriend smiling.
"You told her," said Henry seeing Rika trying to hide her smile.
"You told him," said Rika smiling.
Henry smiled, "Nobody else."
"Nobody else," agreed Rika.
"Promise," said Jeri and Takato together.
"Well shall we?" asked Henry holding up the four cards.
"Let's go," said Jeri slipping her arm through Takato's.
"Let's," said Rika taking Henry's hand.