Choices

Choices
by CJ May
aka Drakon Sword

Fandom: FFVIII (8)

Pairing: Seifer x Zell x Squall ( . . . . eventually . . . *sigh* . . .)

Warnings: Yaoi, Language, Lemon, Angst, OOCness (They have matured to what I think they should), slightly AU (It’s after the game.)

Rating: NC-17

Disclaimer: I don’t own these three hot guys, (Unfortunately. . . . however, I’m still wishing!) or any others in Final Fantasy 8.

Feedback: Always welcome! Whatever your heart desires! (Questions/Support/Flames/etc.)

E-mail: drakwordword@yahoo.com

Summary: Okay everyone, listen up! This is a threesome. (If that bothers you, don’t read! Duh!) Zell is trying to decide between his two lovers, who he is secretly seeing the other behind other’s back. (*gasp* =O . . . Zell’s cheating!) What will Seifer and Squall do when they find out?

Author’s Notes: Okay, I’m not sure what you will think, but I already have ideas for a sequel if this works out, and I receive enough reviews. GOOD ones, that is. ( Haven’t decided on a sufficient number yet, but . . . hey I decide when we get there. I know, I’m evil.)
I love Squall and Seifer, yes I am completely obsessed with that pairing. (Obviously, considering my two other fics, and I promise, there is, and will be, more!) I will apologise now, I love Zell and Irvine, but this fanfic maybe more Seifer x Squall driven. My favourite characters are Squall, Seifer, and Quistis, which is why they are always pretty big in my stories. (Maybe I should write a threesome between them . . .hmm . . . ^_^)
Anyway, let me know what you think. I thought it was worth a try. If it turns out well, I might do the sequel. If not, it was worth a try. : )

Oh ya! I want to thank Chibi Shi-Chan, Jamaica Sunspring, and Ashi Taiyouno for giving me websites, and pictures of Squall and Seifer. I really appreciate it! (I’m still drooling. ^_^) I’d also like to thank bluepapaercrane, kiyu, Darksquall, AeroKnight, Moegimpsta, jh, K.N.W., Mystera, Kat, Severus, HiDeOuS-cHaMeLeOn, Silver Wing, and Milkyway for reading and reviewing! It truly means a lot to me! That is why I’m dedicating this story to all of YOU!!! : ) *grin*

You keep reviewing, and I will keep writing. That’s the deal, baby! (I know. I know. I need help, so shut up and read! :P)

~*@*~


It was quiet in the library in Balamb Garden, considering that it is a library. Though it was fairly empty causing there not to be even the rustle of pages, or of clothing. Not even the tapping of computer keys echoed in the room. It was a freaky, unnerving silence. Enough to drive the quietest of people, nuts!

It was an unusual place for this young man to be. He leaned back in a red cushioned chair with a comic on his lap that he was trying to read. Though his mind refused to concentrate on it. His legs were resting on the table with his ankles crossed. He glared at the comic book stretched out on his lap, with his arms folded. He was lost in thought.

Okay! Unlike popular belief, Zell Dincht could be serious. He wasn’t this overabundance of energy that never stopped. He did, on a rare occasion, stop to think and take things seriously when it was needed. And at the moment . . . it was needed.

Zell had one of the problems that you could love and hate at the same time. On occasion, people who are single, long for this problem. I, for one, do . . .

Anyway, Zell had to make a choice. A choice he has been putting off for months. A deceiving game he had continually played, denying the truth. Lying to his two lovers, and to himself. Hoping, wishing, praying that it would never end and he could live happily with them both. However, it seems that no gods were listening to him.

Zell sighed and gently stroked a temple. He couldn’t choose. He just couldn’t! He loved them both. Funny, that they are so alike, yet so different. Causing them to hate each other, but fulfilling a part of him.

Zell was in love with a silent, introverted young man he considered one of his very best friends, before they became lovers. His beauty was as cold as Shiva, yet made you so warm imagining his touch on your skin. His unruly chocolate strands that hung around his chin with grey eyes that morphed to a baby blue with a strong, pure emotion. Something that happened rarely, but anyone who saw it would easily give the world to see it again.

Squall Leonhart wasn’t very talkative, yet his grunts, groans, and moans spoke louder than words. Squall did talk, occasionally. His words could cut through the strongest of men with his ice-biting wit, and could make the smallest of men feel very important and needed, when he so choose it. Squall may not speak very often, or for very long, but he knew exactly what to say to get his point across, and make you feel how he wanted. To think, the best talker wae one one who spoke the least.

Squall could also play the great seductress with the simplest of gestures, and words. If Squall so chose, he could make anyone beg to touch or be touched by his 5'8'’ lean, willowy, yet muscular body, by both male and female. Squall could turn his pheromones on and off like a tap.

Zell smiled, almost smelling, feeling, and being touched by the sultry package he loved. Squall and he had been together for over 6 months now. Squall broke up with Rinoa Heartilly after about a year of trying to make it work with the lovely, but not so bright, woman. She was too optimistic to make him a forever bubbly, talkative, open man. Something that Squall wasn’t, and, frankly, never would be.

Squall and Rinoa broke up shortly after his 19th birthday. She seemed heartbroken for a while, but after a few weeks got over her ‘true love’ in no time, like she had with Seifer Almasy. Squall wasn’t heartbroken either. He easily slipped back into the single life. One he lived for only a few years, before getting with Zell.

Zell had always felt somethfor for Squall as the travelled the world, defeating whatever crossed their path. Though he never pursued it, or thought about it, mostly because Squall seemed to be destined for the lovely Rinoa.

When it was all over, the love everyone predicted between them just seemed to . . . . die. It was strong as ever at the end, but it just welted. Squall and Rinoa were obviously not meant to be. Though even now she stayed at the garden, still friends with everyone, including Squall.

After he had broken up with Rinoa, he seemed more inclined to hang out with the gang. Mostly Irvine, and Zell. Though Zell was more particular because Zell was single. At the time that was what Zell assumed because Irvine was busy courting the sophisticated Quistis, who he is now, officially, dating. However, now Zell knew different. Squall was trying to figure he feelings for him, and how Zell felt for him before reacting.

Zell could remember that day like yesterday. A day at the beach, tossing a volleyball in the cool, salty ocean with Squall as the others sunbathed. Or babe watched, like *ahem* Irvine Kinneas.

Anyway, the game was relaxed between him and Squall. A long weekend to relax. No Headmistress Xu (yes, she is the new headmistress) to call them for duties. No garden. For four days they were normal young adults, not SeeD’s, having fun on the long weekend.

Squall looked to shore, and watched as a gay couple walked by. The two men held each other’s hand as the walked to an open spot to sit. It wasn’t the first homosexual couple they had seen, and probably not the last, but Squall continued to stare at the passing couples. At the time Zell didn’t see it, but now he knew he was staring at them in curiosity, not disgust.

“Does that bother you, Squall?” Zell asked, holding his body up with the volleyball, letting himself float after swimming to retrieve it. He also watching the gay couple with a smile on his face. He knew what that was like.

“Does what bother me?” Squall asked, seemingly perplexed. Zell rolled off the volleyball, and swam to Squall.

“That gay couple over there. The one you were watching.” Zell said, nodding to the couple as they stretched themselves out on a towel.

“Does it bother you?” Squall shot back. Zell noticed the uneasiness in Squall’s eyes. Zell had been around him long enough that he had learned to read Squall’s eyes.

“Nah! I’m bi-sexual. Actually if anything, I’m proud of them. Proud that they have admitted that they are gay instead of marrying a woman because it is expected by society.” Zell said, shrugging.

“Really?” Squall asked, his eyes wide in a childlike innocense.

“Ya! I mean it takes a lot to admit it, and then go out and do it! Personally, I think it’s pretty cool.” Zell said, smiling.

“No. I meant being bi.” Squall said, his eyes studying Zell. Zell couldn’t help, but blush.

“Well-l . . . . uh . . . . ya. . . . . I guess.” Zell said, scratching that back of his head. Half expecting Squall to swim to shore, disgusted.

“Have you had a boyfriend before?” Squall asked, turning himself to completely face Zell. Zell gaped at him.

“ . . . . yes . . . . “ Zell said, uneasily. Something in Squall’s eyes was seductive, warm, and was completely turning him on, making him forget a certain someone.

“Am I attractive?” Squall asked, blunt as ever and cocking his head as he studied Zell.

“Wh-what?!” Zell stuttered, blushing redder. Though Squall persisted.

“Am I attractive to you?” Squall asked, monotone, not letting his eyes waver from Zell’s. Normally, Squall hated to repeat himself, but he had changed after the sorceress wars. Zell was completely taken in by the gaze. Lost in the storm of grey.

“ . . . . yes.” Zell said, not fully realizing what he said till he had. Zell then gasped at his own answer as Squall gave a small smile.

Zell jumped in surprise when he felt a wet, cold hand touched his face. Zell snapped his eyes to look at Squall he was watching him with a certain possessiveness that made Zell’s heart flip-flop.

“ . . . . . Squall?” Zell asked, confused, yet so turned on that he was fighting not to jump Squall like he had been wanting to for the past few months.

“I like you too, Zell.” Squall whispered as he lowered his lips to Zell’s. Zell was lost as soon as the soft, cold lips touched his own. He returned to kiss, fervently. Caressing the warm, wanting lips on his own, totally oblivious to who and what was around them.

That was until a shrill whistle rang out. They jumped apart to turn to shore where Selphie Tilmitt was waving her arms, grinning like idiot.

“FINALLY!!! COME IN YOU TWO LOVEBIRDS!!! LUNCH IS READY!!!” Selphie called, cupping her mouth with her hands. Zell and Squall both blushed as people turned to look at them.

“Let’s go.” Squall said, taking Zell’s hand in the water as they wadded back. Squall was reluctant to let go of his hand so he could eat, which made Zell’s heart flutter. The gang seemed immensely pleased, and was happy for the two. Zell couldn’t be happier as he and Squall started their relationship that day. Something he been dreaming of for a long time.

Though as this dream came true, a nightmare came up. One that he had temporarily forgotten that day. Who wouldn’t with all the events? Finally getting one of the men you have loved and lusted for years, though refusing to admit it for a longtime. Problem is that Zell Dincht forgot about his other lover he had wanted for years that he was seeing at the time. Seifer Almasy.

Seifer Almasy, the ex-sorceress’ knight, and Squall Leonhart’s lifetime rival. A tall man at 6'2'’ with closely cut blond hair that surrounded his chiselled, utterly masculine face. His bright jade eyes that matched his boisterous personality. The complete, and utter opposite of Squall, yet he loved him just as much.

Seifer was so hard, mentally and physically. He was hard to get along with because of his sneering, biting personality. His body practically screamed sex, yet like Squall, deterred it with his personality.

Instead of being cold and bitter like Squall, he was sarcastic and sneering. He knew how to make you cringe just in a different, but certainly just as affective, way. However, he was just as attractive and appealing to Zell as Squall.

Getting with Seifer was slightly harder then getting with Squall. Partially because Squall made the first move, if it hadn’t worked out that way, it would have been very hard. Seifer, you had to break through the tough, asshole image he gave off. Squall, it was a cold ice shell that was bitter and silent. Both just as hard, but just as rewarding when you did break through.

Seifer never really returned to the Balamb garden. He went his own way, only keeping in touch with his two good friends, Fujin and Raijin, his posse. He went to Glabadia where he finished becoming a SeeD. He did it just to prove he could, and also to help with all the mistakes he did. He wasn’t blamed for his actions with Ultemica because it was proven he was under a mind control, but people were still uneasy around him. Understandable, considering Seifer wasn’t exactly the nicest person in the world.

After graduating, he left and went to Balamb where he started a life at. They needed someone to destroy the monsters around the town to keep costumers coming. Also to kill any that dared to step into the wall of the little town. Willing to give him a chance, they gave him the job.

That’s when Zell met him. He was on his way to his mother’s. It was about 5 months before he had got together with Squall at the beach. Almost a year after Squall and Rinoa broke up. He had gotten a present for Squall, and left it at his mother’s so Squall wouldn’t discover it.

Funny how as stoic Squall was, he lite up like little a child when it came to presents. When Zell discovered this, he teased relentlessly on having Squall’s gift. Bragging about it, and constantly giving Squall contradicting hints. Causing the gorgeous brunette to whine, and growl. There was much to Squall everyone was slowly learning as he came out of his shell on his own, as time passed.

Anyway, Zell came into town to see a tall man with short blond hair, dressed in a dark-blue trench coat that flowed around the man’s ankles like waves of an ocean with the collar pulled up around the man’s neck to hide the part of the man’s face, and neck. Black leather gloves, pants, and boots. Zell looked closer interested in who the man was. He was very nice looking. Very attractive, yet there was something naggingly familiar about him.

The man turned sensing that someone was staring at him. His jade, green eyes curious with the familiar scar between his eyes. A gunblade exactly like Hyperion at the man’s side. Zell almost had a heart attack.

Seifer Almasy. The man who constantly teased and ridiculed him, yet, strangely, turned him on like no otherll, ll, except for Squall. Zell hated Seifer at first. Hated the teasing. Hated the name calling. And most of all, hated the fact that Seifer turned him on.

Seifer was so different from Squall. Both obviously masculine, yet in two different ways. Squall was average height, lean, and muscular. Squall had a cool, sultry manner to him, while Seifer was hard and muscular with deep, passionate aura. Seifer Almasy the bad boy that everyone fell for at least once.

“Well, well, well! Look who it is! Good old, chicken-wuss!” Seifer drawled as he turned. The man Seifer had been talking to, gave the gaping Zell a nod, and walked away to help someone else.

Zell opened his mouth to respond, and then shut. Doing this many times, not exactly sure what to say. He was too surprised to retort, or get angry with Seifer’s name calling. Seifer just arched an eyebrow waiting for Zell to actually say something.

“Can’t you say hi to an old friend?” Seifer asked, smirking. Zell just let his mouth gape open, and then snap shut in response. “Oh, stop flapping your mouth like a guppie! You look like you’re blowing bubbles! It’s becoming! Or, hey, I should call you, bubble boy! Ya, I like that!” Seifer said, rubbing his chin where a little goatee had grown.

“ . . . Seifer?” Zell finally asked, blinking. Seifer shook his head. His jade eyes sparkling in delight in shocking the short, hyper blond. It wasn’t everyday youghtught Zell off guard like this. Seifer was enjoying himself immensely.

“ . . . . chicken-wuss?” Seifer mocked, touching a black leather gloved hand to his chest. Zell finally getting his thoughts together, crossed his arms and glared. Seifer chuckled.

“Hilarious Seifer.” Zell muttered, dryly. Seifer smirked. “What are you doing here? We haven’t seen you in years!” Zell asked, frowning at Seifer. Seifer just sighed.

“I’m here because I work and live here.” Seifer said, sardonically. Zell arched an eyebrow at him.

“Zell!” A voice called before Zell could continue his 20 questions with Seifer. Zell turned around just in time to be pulled into a familiar, loving embrace.

“Hey ma!” Zell said, temporarily forgetting about Seifer as he gave his mom a small hug. She pulled away smiling.

“Hello Seifer! How are you?” Mrs. Dincht asked as she saw the tall, nice looking young man behind Zell. She smiled at Seifer who nodded at her kindly.

“Hello, Mrs. Dincht. I’m good. Lovely day, isn’t it?” Seifer asked, making small talk with a small, genuine, smile. Zell blinked.

“It is, isn’t it?”“ She said, placing a hand over her forehead to look out through the street as the warm sun beat down. “Come you two. I whip us up a little snack.” She said, leading the way to her home.

“That isn’t necessary, Mrs. Dincht.” Seifer said, not following, shaking his head. She promptly shook head, clicking her tongue in displeasure.

“Come on! I’m sure Zell wouldn’t mind.” She said, giving her son a look. Zell shook his head, completely lost aat wat was going on. His mother had known about Seifer, and never said anything to him?

Mrs. Dincht lead the way to her home as Seifer gave in. Mrs. Dincht could be very persuasive. She unlocked the door, and left Zell and Seifer to follow. Zell still wasn’t sure what to think of his mother being close to Seifer. Not to mention how respectful and polite Seifer was to her.

Seifer whipped his boots on the mat, and let his gunblade lean against the against the wall near the door. He removed his blue trench coat, and placed it on a hook. He then sat down in the chair across from Zell as Mrs. Dincht out various types of cookies, and some coffee. Pop for Zell. Zell wasn’t a coffee drinker. He didn’t need the caffeine.

“So what are you doing here, Zell? I wasn’t expecting you till next weekend.” Mrs. Dincht as she sipped her coffee. Zell opened his can of Se wie with a pop. Seifer stirred some cream into the black coffee, seemingly pleased, and comforted by Mrs. Dincht’s hospitality. Almost familiar with the surroundings.

“I need to pick up Squall’s birthday present. His father, Laguna is having a surprise party for him on his birthday, Thursday.” Zell explained as he took a gup of his pop.

“So it’s Leonhart’s birthday on Thursday, eh? He’s going to love having a surprise party.” Seifer said, sarcastically. Mrs. Dinchtn’t n’t seem at all deterred by his tone.

“You’d be surprised. I have successfully driven him insane for the past 2 weeks by not telling him what his present is. I have teased him till he actually starting whining after he growled.” Zell said, shrugging. Grinning evilly as he remembered Squall’s snarls, and his whining, almost begging. Squall had changedot sot since days prior to the sorceress’ wars.

“Really?” Seifer asked, surprised. Zell smirked, and nodded. “Now that is something I wish I’d seen.” Seifer chuckled.

“Oh, we have it on camera. Selphie had her new camcorder with her at the time. She recorded it all. I think it’s part of her gift. Squall has changed a lot since Ultemica.” Zell said, his smile positively sinister. Seifer laughed, shaking his head.

“You two seem to be getting along . . . “ Mrs. Dincht started to say, but was interrupted by the phone ringing. “Excuse me boys.” She sighed, getting up, and answering the persistent ringing.

“So-o . . . . what’s with the new look?” Zell asked, munching on a chocolate chip cookie. Seifer arched a eyebrow.

“Why? Don’t like it?” Seifer asked, running a thumb over the blond goatee. Zell shrugged, and swallowed his mouthful.

“No. It’s just . . . . different. I guess I could never see you dressed differently then before. I guess it makes you look more . . . sophisticated and mature. It’s kinda nice.” Zell said, narrowing his eyes, studying Seifer. Seifer squirmed a little.

“Ya, well, I did it because I was bored with my other look. I’m almost 21, not a brainless teenager. Besides, now I’m not as recognizable.” Seifer said, shrugging it off. Though Zell could swear he could see a blush appearing on Seifer’s cheekbones.

“It’s cool.” Zell said, giving a smile. Studying Seifer again. He decided he like Seifer with the goatee. Seifer’s hair was spiked a little, and Zell really liked the new trench coat. He decided not to ask what happened to the other one.

“You’ve changed too.” Seifer stated. Zell shrugged, and definitely blushed. Zell subconsciously ran a hand through his shorter spiked hair with reddish orange tips. He was wearing tan skater shorts, and an orange shirt.

“Ya, I guess I did it for a change. You get bored looking at the same person in the mirror every morning, you know?” Zell said, as Seifer smirked at his blushing.

“So-o . . . what has been happening at the good old garden?” Seifer asked, sipping his coffee.

“Since you been there? Well-l . . where to start . . . .” Zell said, tapping his chin. Seifer arched an eyebrow at him, waiting. “Well, Rinoa and Squall broke up almost a year ago after his 19th birthday at Esthar where his father, Laguna held a party for him. Xu is the new headmistress. Quistis is a instructor again. Selphie is stthe the social butterfly. Irvine is still a lady’s man. Rinoa is still forever optimistic, over her ‘true love’ Squall after a week of moping..” Zell said, touching each finger as he rhymed it off, and giving finger quotations at explaining Rinoa’s ‘true love’.

“Look. I better go.” Seifer muttered, finishing his coffee. Zell say a flash of longing, sadness, and jealously run passed Seifer jade eyes.

“Sure, man.” Zell said as Seifer got up. “Where’s Fujin and Raijin?” Zell asked, not wanting Seifer to leave, though Seifer was already putting his jacket on.

“They are in Timber. I haven’t heard from them on a few weeks, but last I heard that they are still dating.” Seifer said, as he straightened the collar of his beautiful, soft trench coat. “Say thanks to your mom for me. See ya!” Seifer called as he picked up his gunblade to leave.

“Sure! So, uh, Seifer?” Zell asked, catching the door before it closed. Seifer stopped and turned ook ook at Zell.

“What . . . ?” Seifer asked, blinking as Zell kind of fidgeted.

“Maybe we can talk again soon? I mean, I’d like to see you again. Ya know, catch up on old times. It has been 3 years, and you are . . . well part of the orphanage gang!” Zell said, scratching the back of her neck in a defensive gesture.

“ . . . . sure. Maybe sometime. See ya.” Seifer nodded, leaving. Zell watched him walk away. His jacket swivelling around him. The sun glinting off his hair. Zell felt the familiar stir in his pants, and cursed at himself, inwardly.

“Zell? Did Seifer go?” his mother asked as she entered the kitchen again. Zell sighed, and walked back in closing the door.

“Ya! He said thanks.” Zell said, grabbing another cookie, chomping on it as his mother retrieved a new cup of coffee, since her other was stone cold.

“He’s a nice boy. Been through so much pain with the sorceresses, but he still holds his head high.” She sighed. Zell mused over his mother’s thoughts.

Seifer was different. He wasn’t as defensive, and sarcastic anymore. It was still there, yes, but he was maturer. The sorceress’ war seemed to have made him grow up like everyone else. It was a humbling experience for everyone. It seemed, even for the ex-sorceress’ knight.

“I better wrap Squall’s present before he turns up, demanding to see it like a mad Chocobo looking for its chick.” Zell commented, dryly though smiling at the thought.

“All right. The wrapping paper is in the hall closet.” His mother said as he climbed the stairs to his room. Giving his thanks to his mother.

When Zell got back to the garden he never told anyone about his meeting with Seifer. To this day he didn’t know why he didn’t. It was important, but for some reason he didn’t want to tell the rest of the gang. It was like his little secret. He didn’t want to share.

The weekend after Squall’s birthday Zell went back to Balamb, saying he was going to see his mother. No one suspected anything. It wasn’t unusual for Zell toappeappear to Balamb to visit his mother a few times a week.

Zell did go to his mother’s to ask where Seifer lived. She told him that he lived in an apartment a little ways into the town. Thanking his mother, Zell took off to find Seifer’s. Not really completely understanding the flutter in his stomach, and the tightness in his chest. Excitement was his only answer. Why? He wasn’t so sure.

Seifer surpsurprised, almost shocked, when he saw Zell at his doorstep. Zell quickly explained his mother had given him his address. Seifer invited him in, and after a few moments of uneasiness, they started to talk and hang out. This was the start of many visits.

Zell found himself going to Balamb on a regular basis to see Seifer. He would go at least 2 days a week. He and Seifer would talk, watch movies, go out for lunch, visit his mother, anything that they felt like doing. They were the best of friends, though Seifer did tease Zell, and call him names, but more in a friendly teasing manner, than accusing or ridiculing. Zell didn’t mind as he teased right back.

No one else discovered Seifer. They knew he was alive, but no one knew where, and no one went to the pain to find him. They felt that he rather be left alone. Seifer would come when he wanted to be found.

Also, no one ever really went to Balamb anymore. Deling City had become the huge spot to go out drinking and clubbing. Partially because they take a train there with Squall being the great Esthar President’s son and war hero. Also they could crash at Rinoa dad’s place because she had repaired her relationship with him when Timber was freed. The place was huge, and he wasn’t there often, anyway.

Esthar had the best theatres, and they could get in free because Laguna owned it. Then there was Timber where had the best restaurants. Also Zone with Nida had opened a restaurant that had the best food on the entire planet. They were amazing cooks.

Overall, Balamb wasn’t as popular anymore. They would only go there to get on the train, and for a little bit of shopping. Other than that . . . Balamb was just like home. It was comfortable with nothing really unusual. Also the gang got bored of it because they had gone there since they were like . . . 7?

3 months past, and Zell was continually getting closer and closer to Seifer. He couldn’t deny it to himself anymore. He was in love with Seifer. Zell wasn’t sure what to do. Yes, Seifer had admitted that he was gay when they talked about Rinoa at one point. Seifer explained that they weren’t ever really together. He cared for her as a sister, never a lover. He dumped her because he finally decided to stop denying his sexuality.

At the time Seifer seemed nervous of scaring Zell off. Zell saw this, and instantly relaxed Seifer by explaining he was bi-sexual. Seifer seemed relieved, and Zell could swear he saw a flicker of hope in the jade cat eyes.

Zell couldn’t take it anymore. He decided to do something. Taking fate in his hands, Zell went to Balamb with a determination he didn’t know he really had. He was going to tell Seifer how he felt.

Seifer let him in, and before Seifer could fully shut the door, Zell pounced on him in an instant. Zell pushed Seifer till his back was to the door, and caressed the soft, usually smirking, lips. Zell could feel Seifer’s lips were slacked in surprise, and could feel the tickle of Seifer’s goatee. The sensation was mind boggling.

Even more mind boggling was when Seifer started to return the kiss just as passionately. Seifer’s hands rested on his hips as the kiss became softer, but with just as much desire. Zell wrapped his arms around Seifer’s neck as the continued to kiss, till Zell finally pulled away, panting for air.

“What was that for?” Seifer asked, breathlessly, his jade eyes sparkling with happiness as he made no move out of the embrace. Zell groaned as Seifer smirked.

“Because I wanted to. I have wanted you for a long-g time.” Zell muttered, panting. Seifer chuckled, and caught Zell’s lips in a quick little kiss.

“Good, because I have been driving myself mad not to jump and ravish you.” Seifer muttered, stroking Zell’s cheek with a tenderness Zell would havver ver considered a part of Seifer till the past few months. There was a lot more to Seifer then anyone would probably ever know. So far, Zell knew that most, and he was still learning.

“Why don’t you?” Zell asked, huskily. Seifer sighed, and nuzzled Zell’s cheek with his own. Zell closed his eyes, smiling softly.

“Why don’t we go to that first movie first? Consider it our first date.” Seifer asked, smirking as he pulled away to get his trench coat.

“You really know how to destroy my mood.” Zell muttered as he tapped his foot waiting. Seifer laughed.

“Come on! It starts in 20 minutes.” He said taking Zell’s hand. Zell sighed. Begrudgingly, following Seifer.

That was their first date starting their relationship. Zell couldn’t be happier, well till he got Squall too. Though that was also when the problems started. Mainly it was guilt. Guilt that he was cheating on both of them with the other.

At first Zell decided to play it out, and deciding who he liked the best. Or loved the most. Or treated him the best, and dump the other. No one would be wiser. Yes, it was cruel, but it made him feel better for awhile. That was until he realized that he couldn’t choose.

Then there was the option of breaking up with both of them, and becoming their friends again, but it would be too awkward. He loved them both, and they both loved him. Returning to friendship would be too hard since he was more than willing to jump them on a regular basis.

Zell didn’t know what to do, and he still didn’t. He had been with Seifer for 9 months, and Squall 6. Yes, maybe he should dump Squall because he was with Seifer first and it would save Squall pain, but he saw Squall every day. It would kill him to see him pull away, and not to mention, try and contain his raging hormones.

Okay! You say, then dump Seifer. Well, Zell couldn’t do that either. Seifer knew his mother well, and often went to visit her. She didn’t know that Zell was dating both Seifer, and Squall. She just thought they were good friends. Breaking up with Seifer would cause him to stop visiting her, and she would ask what happened. Breaking up with either one would kill them, and any relationship he had with them. He couldn’t back out now.

Now of course there was something that really made it hard. Really hard on him. Him as an individual. He loved them both with all his heart. Each one held one half of his heart in an iron grip.

Zell sighed, and stretched his arms to the ceiling. He was so confused. What was he supposed to do? He couldn’t give up one, or both. He wanted them both. There was only one way to have them both without guilt, but he knew, considering the rivalry, they would never agree, or do it. Zell was frankly on his own.

Zell gathered his comic book, and left the library. Lost in thought as he walked down to the dorms. Running a hand through his blond red tipped spiky hair, sighing. He opened the door to his dorm, and shut it, immediately being plugged into darkness.

He leaned against the back of his door, blinking his eyes to adjust to the darkness. It was then he knew someone else was there. He felt soft, cool fingertips run down his arm in a caress that gave him goose bumps in anticipation. Instantly forgetting his problems, for the moment.

“ . . . Squall.” Zell whispered, as lips ravished his neck, and exposed collarbone. His buttoned shirt was slowly being undone as his nipples were being pinched. He groaned in pleasure. His shirt fell to the ground unheeded as the lips travelled up his neck to his ear, where his lobe was slightly nibbed.

“Mine.” Was the only word spoken in the voice he knew so well. Zell instantly reached out, and touched the naked chest. He trailed his fingers along the taunt muscles of the well-defined chest causing Squall to groan in his own pleasure.

“Yes.” Zell hissed into Squall’s ear, rubbing his palms over Squall’s erect nipples. He pushed his knee between the leather clad legs, rubbing the hardness there causing Squall to moan a little louder.

Zell pushed Squall back till they finally came to the bed. Zell quickly straddled Squall’s waist, and with deft fingers undid the leather pants. He leaned to kiss the chest, completely removing the pants and smooth boxers underneath.

The small amount of light was all Zell needed when he saw the demanding length of Squall. He instantly incased the hardness with his mouth, causing Squall to gasp in pleasure and surprise. Something Zell considered music to his ears.

Zell massaged Squall’s balls causing Squall to continue his disjointed groans telling Zell what he wanted, and how. He pumped up and down Squall’s shaft as he held Squall’s hips down, staying in control though Squall was the one who originally engaged this. Though Zell knew that Squall didn’t mind being controlled. To him it was a major turn-on. Squall never took power very well, even though he was a natural leader. He just hated people relying and expecting him to lead them when he didn’t now what was truly right, or wrong. He hated be the saviour. Unlike others who wanted power, and were corrupted by it, Squall just didn’t like it.

Squall then gasped, breathlessly as his seed spilled into Zell’s awaiting, hot mouth. Zell quickly swallowed it all, and crawled up to kiss Squall. He pushed his tongue into the slackened mouth. Their tongue tangled as he let Squall taste his own essence.

“Do you want me inside you?” Zell asked, huskily in Squall’s ear as he pressed a finger into Squall. Squall just moaned in longing, and arched his back in response. That was all Zell needed.

Zell pulled away causing Squall to groan on disappointment. Zell quickly removed the rest of his clothing, and grabbed the lubricant from the bedside table. Joining the awaiting Squall in record time.

“Sh-h! I’m back, love.” He whispered as he pushed a lubricated finger into Squall tight, heat. Squall moaned with pleasure. It was enough to make Zell’s head spin. He quickly added another, and then another finger to make Squall continue his moans in pleasure, holding onto Zell let a raft in the ocean.

“Oh Squall!” Zell panted as he entered the tight heat that belonged to Squall. It was something he would never tire of. He would never ever stop loving this man of his dreams. Squall meant everything to him, just like . . . Seifer.

Squall wrapped his legs around Zell’s waist, beckoning him deeper. Zell quickly obliged causing Squall to moan in utter ecstasy. Zell thought he would cum right there. Squall moans, and groans could turn anyone on.

Zell thrusted harder and harder into the heat causing the groans from Squall to grow louder, and louder till they finally screamed together falling from the heavenly heights they had visited for their umptieth time.

Zell rolled himself to his side, gathering Squall into his arms. Squall’s head rested on his shoulder, already falling asleep. Zell could feel the warmth of Squall’s breath trialing along his skin causing him to goose bump again.

“I love you, Squall. With all my heart.” Zell whispered, combing his fingers through the hair he loved so. In response, Squall grunted in agreement, and pleasure. To Zell it meant the same words. Squall had said it once. Zell understood that was probably the hardest thing Squall had ever done. Though it hurt sometimes that Squall didn’t say it back with words.

Zell sighed, content for the moment, closing his eyes falling asleep. He tucked the blankets in around them, and slowly fell into the bliss where he, Squall, and Seifer lived happily together. If only dreams came true.


~*@*~


Zell awoke with the sun shining in his eyes. He groaned in displeasure, and turned to look away from the blinding rays. Zell snapped a eye open when he rolled to find a empty spot at the other side of his bed. Wasn’t someone supposed to be there . . . ?

Squall then walked in. His hair was wet, and even more astray than usual, dripping down on his shoulders to streak down his bare chest. A small green towel wrapped around his waist as he used another to rub his hair. Zell could smell the soapy freshness that Squall had after a shower. The light spice of aftershave, and mint from toothpaste.

“Mornin’.” Zell said, groggily as he awoke. His tongue clumsy with sleep. Squall just smiled, and sat down on the bed. Zell reached out to touch the golden skin of his flank causing Squall to flex at the touch.

“You’re in a good mood this morning.” Squall said, as he shed the towel around his waist to dry his legs and arms.

“Hell! Anyone waking up to a sight of you would make anyone’s day!” Zell scoffed, rolling on his back, stretching like a cat as he yawned.

“Ya, but you’re the only one I wake up to.” Squall murmured as he stood up pulling on a pair of black boxers, and jeans. Zell watched him with a feeling of slight shame that he tried to hide. He had woken up to someone else quite a few times over the past 6 months he had been seeing Squall as well . . .

“You have to work today?” Zell asked as Squall threw on one of one of his black tank tops from the closet. Squall had started to keep clothes in Zell’s room, and Zell did the same. They were constantly waking up in the other’s room needing clothes.

Squall nodded as he sat on the bed again to put on his boots.

“Ya. Quistis asked Rinoa, Selphie, Irvine, and myself, to do a demonstration for her class today.” Squall said as he reached over to the bedside table to retrieve his necklace, watch, and earring that he removed last night when he came into Zell’s room.

“That’s right! And I declined because I promised to see ma today.” Zell said, staring at the ceiling knowing bloody well it wasn’t his ma he was going to see.

Squall turned to look at Zell. He smiled a warm smile, and leaned down to kiss Zell gently on the lips. As Squall went to pull away, Zell wrapped his arm around Squall’s waist to hold him to his body, and deepened the kiss with a quick lick of his tongue.

Squall quickly obliged, and steadied himself by placing a hand on either side of Zell. He returned the kiss with earnest, and with a moan of pleasure to boot. Zell just gripped him tighter, and duelled with the other willing tongue with pleasure.

“Zell . . . . “ Squall said, breathlessly as he pulled his mouth away. Zell wouldn’t have it, and yanked him back down for another deep, passionate kiss that Squall melted into.

“Hm . . .?” Zell asked in his throat as he finally let Squall go.

“I have to go to my room to get my gunblade, and be at Quistis’ home room in 15 minutes.” Squall murmured in Zell’s neck. Zell just sighed, letting Squall completely go so he could get up.

“I’ll see you later, right?” Zell asked as Squall got up. Squall smiled and nodded as he left the room.

“. . . . . whatever.” Squall teased as he left. Zell groaned, and threw a pillow at the retreating figure. Squall easily stepped out of the way. Zell heard the door close with a gentle click, and chuckle from Squall.

Zell sighed as he stared at the stark white ceiling, watching as the sunlight shining through his blinds played in the titled ceiling. He could still smell Squall on his bed sheets. Mind you, they slept in each other’s sheet pretty much every night. Again Zell lost himself in his thoughts.

What was he supposed to do? As much as Zell wanted it to? This wasn’t going to last forever! Sleeping with Squall, and then running of to Balamb with the pretense of seeing his ma, but really to see Seifer. Someone was going to find out, or discover something. He was lucky enough that Squall was always busy with something else, and never asked to visit his ma with him, but what if he did? He would be toast, or close to it.

Actually, Seifer probably wouldn’t show up. He would probably do a ‘U’ turn, and leave, just thinking Squall came with him as a friend, not at all assuming Zell was lovers with Squall. Seifer had explained to Zell that he tried to avoid the gang as much as possible. Whenever anyone saw him they either never recognized him, just continued on their way, or he would quickly leave seemingly unnoticed. No one knew he was there, or never pursued him to find him, which suited Seifer just fine. One of the reasons why Zell’s secret was still a secret.

Zell groaned, and pushed his bed sheets aside, paddling over to the washroom to get a shower. It seemed that lately every spare moment he used to brood over his problems. Squall had to be rubbing off on him.

He had a quick shower, and changed into beige skater shorts, a navy tank top with an orange buttoned shirt over it. He threw on his white running shoes with orange laces, and left his bangs down because he was late. He promised he’d meet Seifer at the dock to go for lunch at the small café near the water’s edge.

Quickly, running down the halls, he got to the front gate, and started down the path to Balamb. He didn’t run into any monsters along the way, luckily. He still had Queazcolt because they couldn’t fully prove that Guardian Forces erased your memory. I mean, how much of your childhood do you remr? Ir? I sure as hell don’t remember much.

However, GF’s were only given to those who wanted them, and were completely capable of handling them. The gang who saved the world from the sorceress got to keep theirs, but new ones were given to SeeD’s, who wanted one, and were deemed capable by the headmistress, and their instructor.

Panting as he entered Balamb, Zell stopped to catch his breath for a few moments before speed walking to the dock. There he saw the man he was looking for standing confident, and sexy as ever.

Seifer’s hair was teased a little while the wind played with the spikes, and his goatee nicely trimmed. His ocean blue trench coat bellowed around him while underneath were smoky-grey pants with a navy blue dress shirt. Hyperion was at his side since he was the protector of the town, and the ocean breeze seemed to make his creamy skin glow. Zell almost got a hard on right there.

Seifer turned almost instantly, sensing someone staring at him. Not to mention Zell was panting heavily. Anyone could hear him a mile away. Seifer smirked, and arched a golden eyebrow at him while checking his watch on his left wrist.

“You’re late.” Seifer said, as Zell dragged himself over, not breathing as heavily. Zell shrugged his shoulders as he went into his long line of excuses that he had thought of on the way.

“My alarm clock didn’t go off - ” which was true if you didn’t count Squall, but Squall didn’t wake him kinda late, “I had to shower because I was training yesterday and *pant* didn’t have one the night before - ” he still wasn’t lying, “then by the time I found out what time it was, I realized I was late, and ran around mad getting dressed! *pant* Then I ran all the way here, and I’m really, really, hungry!” Zell explained, with the energy he was known for.

“. . . done?” Seifer asked, with his arms crossed as Zell panted again, nodding. Seifer shook his head.

“Well, *pant* other than, I love you?” Zell offered, giving Seifer the puppy eyes. Seifer stared at him blankly with his arms crossed. Zell pouted, and pressed his hands together, praying as he begged.

“All right. All right! Let’s get something to eat, I’m hungry too.” Seifer sighed, shaking his head as Zell cheered, jumping up and down. Zell never ran out of energy it seemed.

“Thank god! I thought you were really angry at me for a moment there!” Zell said, running a hand through his bangs as Seifer took his hand, and started to lead him to the café. Seifer shook his head.

“Nah. Not worth it, especially sense I was late. I was just here before you.” Seifer said, smirking. A teasing glint in his cat green eyes.

“Bastard!” Zell gasped, making a motion to punch Seifer. Seifer just took his other hand, and held the fist.

“Wrestling is for later. Conserve your energy. That’s why we are getting something to eat first.” Seifer murmured, seductively causing Zell’s heart to skip a beat.

“And here, I thought you were taking me out because you loved me, and wanted to spend some quality time together like other couples. It seems you only want me to get into the sack with you every waking moment.” Zell said, dryly as the entered the café.

Seifer smirked, and bent down to catch Zell’s earlobe between his teeth to nib. Zell felt his knees go weak as he attempted to keep walking as Seifer continued his nibbling.

“Of course. Why would you think any thing else?” Seifer asked, whispering in Zell’s ear as they sat down. Zell flopped into his chair since his knees did give out as Seifer let his ear go, and walked to his chair. Seifer sat in his smoothly, and with ease.

“You know, I am not a walking sex toy.” Zell muttered, crossing his arms in a pretense to be mad. It seemed to be constant teasing between them.

“Really? I didn’t think you were good for anything else. Well, I guess other than eating hot dogs, and being the most energetic person in the world.” Seifer offered as he looked the menu over. Zell went to retort, but then stopped, and tapped his chin in thought.

“Hot dog eating, yes, the most energetic person, no. I think Selphie beats me in that competition.” Zell said, smiling as he also looked at his menu. He already had a good idea what he wanted.

“Though only by a close second.” Seifer said, dryly. He could remember the hyperactive, sunny, never seeing the rainy cloud, Selphie. Selphie was great, and a good friend to everyone, but sometimes she was too perky.

“Some guys like her for that. Energy all the time, includes the bedroom.” Zell said, rising, and lowering his eyebrows quickly over the top of his menu. Seifer chuckled.

There was silence for a short amount of time as they looked over the menus, and waited for the waitress. Zell didn’t mind silence, or quiet time anymore. Probably another trait, that Squall had rubbed off on him. Zell enjoyed just sitting with Seifer, and mingling with his presence and aura.

Zell heard Seifer put his own menu down, and Zell could feel Seifer’s eyes on him. It made him feel special as a small smile came to his lips. The menu still hid him from Seifer’s view, but it seemed not for long because Seifer pulled the menu down to look at Zell. Zell just cocked an eyebrow at him, waiting for a explanation.

“I love you, you know that. I also know that you are going to order hot dogs for lunch, and just reading the menu to drive me insane.” Seifer stated, calmly as his green eyes watched Zell, who sighed.

“I love you too, Seifer, but you know me too well.” Zell muttered, wryly, which caused Seifer to smirked. Zell scowled, but a smirk came to his lips, and softened as Seifer reached out to caress his cheek.

“Can I take your order?” The waitress asked, politely, when she came over. Seifer slowly removed his hand, and ordered what he wanted. Zell quickly followed, letting the waitress smile warmly with an approving twinkle in her eye as she left.

Seifer, and Zell quickly went into a conversation of new movies, and video games while the waited, and ate when their meals arrived. Zell was a complete fanatic when it came to Playstation. Strangely, Seifer was pretty attached to it too. Seifer wasn’t as enthusiastic as Zell, but enjoyed it just the same.

When they were finished, their waitress named, Lora gathered their dirty dishes as Seifer asked for the bill. She smiled, and nodded as she went off. Then returning with nothing in her hand, just grinning.

“It’s on the house. Mr. Dunstan says ‘thanks’.” She said, smiling. Zell was confused, and blinked as Seifer smiled, and gave her a 10 dollar bill.

“Tell him, ‘you’re welcome’, and keep this for yourself.” Seifer said as he gatheres cos coat, and Zell came up beside. Zell saved his questions till they left.

“What was that about?” Zell asked as the walked up the dock. Seifer smiled, and took his hand as they walked.

“Trevor Dunstan was out a few nights ago with his friend, Calvin Oxford making trouble. I happened to be out at the time when they were attacked by a wave of monsters. I got them back to town safely, and a bit bruised up, but alive. Mr. Dunstan, his father was furious as was Calvin’s mother. Both were immensely thankful, and it seems I have found the café he owns. I guess, he still letting me know how much he appreciates luck.” Seifer said, shrugging. Zell knew the two boys. They were about 8, and were planning to be SeeD’s. They weren’t overly bad, just curious, and enthusiastic.

“Luck? Don’t you mean you?” Zell asked, as they walked. Zell knew they were headed to his mother’s. She was out at Timber playing Bingo with her friends. She did once a week at, what she and her friends called, ‘the best bingo hall’ which was in Timber.

“It was luckily that I was out there, hunting at the time. I had a strange hunch that something was up, and happened to come along in time. It was pure luck, that I came along to find them.” Seifer said, as Zell unlocked the door to his ma’s.

“Maybe, but it was skill which killed the monster, no?” Zell said, pushing the door open. Seifer followed Zell in, and shut the door behind him.

“I suppose, but killing a monster also includes luck.” Seifer countered which caused Zell to groan. Sometimes Seifer would take a compliment, and blow it up like his chest. Other times he would argue, and counter the compliment till you were ready to kill him. Both ways, Seifer was very infuriating.

“Shut up!” Zell growled, stomping into the kitchen after removing his shoes. Seifer also went to removing his shoes, blade, and trench coat, then following Zell in. Seifer wrapped his arms around Zell’s waist from behind, and instantly latched his lips to Zell’s earlobe.

“Okay. As long as you find something else for my mouth to do, chicken.” Seifer teased as Zell turned into his embrace.

“You - !” Zell went to retort on the nickname, but his lips were instantly pressed by other warm lips that caused all reason to go out the door. Seifer quickly gave a small lick on Zell’s lips, bidding entrance which Zell obliged to.

Zell went to work undoing Seifer’s shirt as Seifer pressed his hips to Zell’s. Zell’s mother wasn’t going to be home till dinner which was hours away. It seemed Seifer also knew this as he rocked his hips against Zell’s causing Zell to moan at the feeling of their erections rubbing each other.

“Bedroom?” Zell asked, pulling away to breath. Seifer also was panting, and it seemed his lips were already red from the friction of their kiss.

“Bedroom.” Seifer stated, as the two lovers ran to the bedroom trying to rid themselves of all their garments on the way.


~*@*~


“That was so-o embarrassing!” Selphie wailed, lifting her head off the table to say her few words, and then returned to the position on her head in her arms on the table. All you could see was a wide open mouth, and tear-filled green eyes, and then back to a mop of auburn hair.

“It wasn’t that bad, sweetie.” Rinoa said, stroking her lover’s back in comfort. Rinoa, and Selphie had just recently gotten together. They were always friends, but it seemed that a few nights ago, it stepped to something more intimate.

“Oh yes it was.” Squall muttered, wryly. Which he quickly received death glare in stereo, and more soul-wracking sobs from Selphie. Squall quickly went back to his lunch of a BLT toasted sandwich, and a can of coke.

“Come on, Selphie! It truly wasn’t that bad!” Irvine said, joining in to help make Selphie feel better. She just continued to cry as Rinoa stroked her back.

They were called to do a demonstration for Quistis to help her class make decisions on weapons. Quistis had a younger class, and they were getting to exam time to help make decisions for what weapon to choose. Quistis had asked other SeeD’s, who had different weapons to also attend. Quistis was able to bring at least one person for every weapon, and it was quite a success, all expect for one thing.

It seemed not to be Selphie’s day when it was her turn to demonstrate her own weapon, the Nunchakus. Selphie fumbled, and fouled all the way through causing Squall, and Irvine jumped in before the monster could get out of control. Rinoa came in to cure, and get Selphie out of the way. It was a complete mess, and utterly embarrassing for Selphie, who ran off as soon as she could, crying. She was still crying.

“Yes it was! I made a complete fool of myself, and probably made Nunchakus the most unwanted weapon. I am a complete failure!” Selphie wailed again, as Rinoa continued to try and console her.

“How’s Selphie? Still bad?” Quistis asked as she walked up. Selphie was busy crying on Rinoa’s shoulder as Rinoa coed at her, trying to make her see the good side of things, which didn’t seem to be working.

“Ya. She thinks she is a complete failure, and refuses to eat.” Irvine said as Quistis sat beside him and Squall, which was across Selphie and Rinoa.

“Oh please! I am trying to eat.” Squall muttered, dryly as Irvine kissed Quistis deeply. Irvine had, somehow, finally convinced the sophisticated blond to date him after much courting. Somewhere along the line of flowers, cards, poems, and sweet kisses, she gave in.

Irvine was a complete romantic as he was a player, or lover boy. Quistis, like everyone else of the gang, had seen him at work, and knew he was doing the same with her. At first, she considered it flattering, but just a tease. Then she started to get annoyed when all her classes found out with the notes and flowers on her desk. They would start getting on her case to go out with him.

Quistis then went to have a talk with him after about a month of flowers, and other such romantic moves that she would enjoy if it wasn’t Irvine. Not that she didn’t like Irvine, but she assumed he was only doing it for a challenge, and maybe a roll in the hay, sort of speak, nothing more.

Quistis went to Squall, Zell, Selphie, and Rinoa first for advice, who weren’t any help. Squall just shrugged, and grunted, not offering anything. Zell seemed to preoccupied with other problems to help anyone else, and she didn’t bother asking what it was. Rinoa was too big into the romantic ideas to really help, and Selphie just smiled, not really offering anything.

Getting to her wits end, Quistis went to Xu, who just teased her relentlessly on it. Quistis was tempted to ask Nida, and maybe Nida’s lover, Zone. Till she finally decided just to have a heart-to-heart talk with him when no one was around.

She went to his room after dinner, and asked to go for a walk. She talked to him, and she realized as theyked,ked, how real his intentions were. He admitted that he had liked her for a long time. That he didn’t want to play around anymore, and he wanted to have a real relationship with her. He said he was a horny teenager anymore, and thought he should consider settling down with one woman for a real relationship.

Something Irvine said convinced her, and the two started casually dating. Irvine was truthful to his word. He was sometimes overly friendly with some women, but would stop when he realized he was falling into old habits. Not to mention, Quistis would glare at him, or find some else to do and avoid him for a few hours if she caught him flirting.

However, through all the mistakes and such, the two got along well. Irvine wasn’t a player anymore, and Quistis seemed to be less strict. He should her a good time, and she showed him how to treat people with respect, and to take certain thing seriously. The two started to date seriously as they seemed to grow on each other, in the case right now, literally.

“Right, and if Zell was here, you would be lip-locking too.” Quistis said, smugly as she leaned into Irvine’s arms which was around her waist.

“ . . . . whatever.” Squall said, going back to his sandwich, and trying his best to ignore the freaks around him. He really loved them all, but the demonstration went to shit. He received a few good bruises on his side, and leg from saving Selphie. Not to mention he seemed to have a bad feeling for some odd reason. It seemed the Quistis felt it too because she seemed to be studying him carefully. Quistis seemed to have deemed Squall’s attitude a little blacker than normal.

“Why am I not surprised?” Irvine muttered, after Squall used his favourite word. Squall smirked at him, which seemed to calm Quistis’ watchful eyes down from X-raying him. Quistis was still forever protective of him, which he didn’t mind. It’s nice to know someone cares, but sometimes she didn’t know when to leave it alone, and stepped over the line.

“Where is Zell anyway?” Rinoa asked, Selphie was busy blowing her nose, but it seemed the playful glint was back. Selphie was getting over her little traumatic event of embarrassment. Too many other things to worry about.

“He’s in Balamb. He’d promised to visit his mother today.” Squall said, finishing his sandwich.

“Ya! And he got out of Quistis’ little charade!” Selphie whined, scowling. She grunted unladylike, and crossed her arms.

“Just be happy he wasn’t there to observe you little accident.” Squall said, scowling at her in return. Selphie looked at him, and then promptly burst into tears again.

“You’re *sob* so cruel!” She wailed, and ran off. It seemed even when she ran there was still a slight skip. Squall was instantly received death glare in stereo, again. It seemed it was his day to walk into everything.

“Meanie!” Rinoa growled, smacking the back of his head which caused Squall to glare at her retreating back as she ran after Selphie. He rubbed his head, and turned back to the other two, who were glaring at him relentlessly.

“What the hell was that for, Squall? You don’t need to be so mean. She’s already upset, and embarrassed as it is.” Quistis said, somewhat softly as Squall stared at his can of pop. Irvine snorted.

“I didn’t mean it. I’ll apologise later, when she calms down enough to talk to. I guess I’m not overly impressed with the demonstration either.” Squall sighed, shrugging. Quistis nodded as Irvine sighed.

“No. It wasn’t the best demonstration in the world. What in the fuck did we have to fight monsters, anyway? We could have just paired off, and spared!” Irvine said, frowning as he adjusted his brown cowboy hat.

“It was pretty near a disaster, wasn’t it? I thought monsters would work because you could show the full power of the weapon when having nothing to hold back, and can kill.” Quistis sighed, running a hand through her loose strands that had fallen out of the braid that was tied down her back.

“It makes sense. We would have held back fighting a fellow human. Unless of course your rivals like Squall, and Seifer.” Irvine chuckled, as Quistis smacked his arm. Squall just sighed as he, absentmindedly, stroked the scar between his eyes.

Squall never got angry about the rivalry anymore. They were both fucked up teenagers then, and they made their mistakes. Squall wasn’t sure if he and Seifer would ever be friends, or just stay as acquaintances that had grown up together. Squall didn’t hate Seifer, it was just jealously between the two of them.

Squall would never admit it at the time, and still wouldn’t say it openly to anyone, but he was jealous of Seifer. He always looked up to Seifer. Seifer was strong, confident, and passionate, not to mention masculine. Squall strived to be that way. Seifer was what he wanted to be, and never could be.

Seifer did what he wanted, and believed in, even if it was wrong. He was ionaionate, even arrogant, but he alway seemed on top, and feared nothing. Squall had fears, though he hid it all away in his tight, cold interior.

Seifer was the reason he picked up a gunblade. Seifer was the reason he became a SeeD. Seifer was the reason he was one of the top students. Seifer was the reason he met Rinoa, who helped him understand that if was safe to trust in others, and pull out of his shell. Seifer was the reason he fought, and won against the sorceresses. Seifer was the reason he was doing a lot of things. Seifer was pretty important, as much as he bullied, in Squall’s life. Things may have been different without him, but maybe not necessarily for the better.

As much as Squall hated the battles and rivalry, Squall needed it. Fighting the one person ahead of him. Seifer was always that little bit better then him, which made Squall fight to overcome him, but never could. Though Squall did in the sorceress wars, but Squall to this day thinks it was because he wasn’t there.

Seifer had been royally mind fucked. He was controlled, and that was a known fact. Squall liked to think that because it wasn’t really Seifer, and that’s why he was able to beat him. The passion, and desire to win which Squall knew Seifer had, wasn’t there. He was just a shell of himself, which probably also made Squall angrier, and lash out harder to win to get Seifer back. As well to go back to the way things were. Nothing did go back though, in some ways it was good it didn’t, and Squall didn’t mind so much.

Squall threw out his trash in the garbage as Irvine, and Quistis talked. Squall wasn’t sure what to do, and Zell was still in Balamb. Squall respected the fact Zell went to see his mother on a regular basis, though Squall was always too busy to go with him. Zell never seemed to mind, but Zell always had time, or made time to go with Squall to see Laguna.

“Where are you going, Squall?” Quistis asked, as Irvine walked off to get some ice cream for her, and himself. Quistis didn’t have a class for a little while, and she always spent her free time with Irvine as long as she didn’t have papers to mark, or a class to plan. However, Irvine would help, or train while she did.

“I was thinking of going to Balamb to meet Zell. I haven’t seen his mother in a longtime, and he always comes to Laguna with me.” Squall said, rubbing a temple, feeling guilty. Quistis sensed this immediately.

“Did he say something to make you feel bad about not going with him?” Quistis asked, frowning as Squall shook his head.

“No. Never. I just feel guilty, and besides, he’s not back yet. Maybe I just drop in to say hi.” Squall said, smiling. Quistis returned the smile, though she had a feeling that if Squall went to Balamb things were going to take a different turn. Maybe even spin out of control, but necessarily end up bad. Just confused.

“Why not? What do you have to lose? You have some free time, anyway.” Quistis said, as Squall gathered his leather jacket, and threw it on.

“Ya, right. I’ll see ya later!” Squall said, waving as he took off.

“Squall! Don’t forget to apologise to Selphie later!” Quistis yelled at him. Squall waved a hand as he mentally made a note not to forget to do that. He liked Selphie, even if she was too hyper at times, but that was what made Selphie . . . Selphie. Just like Quistis, who was the mother hen of the group. Irvine was the player, as Rinoa was the romantic one. Everyone fit one piece of the puzzle in one way or another.

Squall walked out into the crisp air, and smiled. The sun shone brightly causing him to squint as the wind whipped around his body causing his hair to flutter, making it messier, if it was possible. Squall walked down the path, not in any hurry in the least.

However, as Squall walked grey clouds started to roll in. Not very quickly, but it seemed that a storm was on its way, and Squall hurried a little, not sure if he really wanted to get caught in the down pour.

He walked into Balamb, and looked around the nosy streets. Balamb had lost its luster to the Garden. Many just came to get on the train to go somewhere else, or just for quick shopping for certain potions, and such. Balamb was a nice homy place, but with Esthar and Deiling City, it was like the country.

Squall strolled down the street to t