Cute queer tempter eats cream

Frigid Hearts Ch. 01
Character s ages are:
Jalena – 21
Malakai – 19
Jouya- 22
Ranae – 20
Domanis – 23
Delano – 25
Thanasis – 29
*******~*_Frigid Hearts_*~******* The streets were busy – the rush to get out of the blistering winter winds only spurred the crowds to finish up their tasks so they could hurry home in the comforts of a warm home. Not everyone had a home. A cat peered at the passing humans with narrowed yellow eyes. Sensing that there was no food available the creature turned back into the alley. Powdery snow tickled it s whiskers as it lowered it head to the ground – a new scent invaded it s sensitive nose. Curious it gave a mew before venturing towards a pile of boxes tucked back against the wall that ended the alley. And there huddled in the corner was a teenage boy in torn clothes that barely clung to his body.
It was cold. Very cold and wet. Sitting up slowly the boy would ve cried out in pain if his voice would work.
W-What s wrong with my voice?? He blinked in worry there was no change to the black he saw. Fear gripped at his mind he shakily brought his hands to his face searching for a blindfold or whatever it was that impeded his vision. His hands pulled away empty-handed.
Why-Why can t I see? What s wrong with me? Now scrambling to stand the boy bit his lip as intense pain ripped through his body.
Why-What happened to me? Why is it so cold? Why can t I… Scared he gently sat down again careful not to hurt the other injuries he felt on his body.
W-Without sight….How can I… The voice he had in his mind trailed off as he raised his hands – he could still feel things with his hands. Hesitantly the boy let his fingertips run gently over body feeling for any other injuries.
M-my clothes…They re almost shredded…No wonder it s so cold… Meow? The boy raised his head listening hard so he could home in on where the sound was coming from. He d heard that sound before but from where?
Meow? Hands reached out searching for the source of that sound that stirred something in his mind. He felt his lips curl with smile when he felt soft fur touch his cool fingers. Careful the boy picked the creature up and nuzzled his cheek against. A strange sound rumbled throughout the creature reverberating against his chest as he held it close.
I-It tickles… Liking it he settled back before he thought worriedly about his situation.
Where am I? And why can t I remember anything before this? *** Alone in the upperclass apartments of District 18 a young man of nineteen sweated and scurried around the kitchen. Curses and pleas escaping his lips he searched for scissors before returning to his dying flowers. They were already starting to wilt the sudden snow fall affecting them too much.
Come on! You guy s aren t dying so soon! The rare flowers managed to bloom just a few weeks ago and there was no way he d let those flowers die. He had tried everything those expensive plant feed kits special formulas and altering where he placed the flower pots. Nothing worked.
After an hour of adjusting the various lamps placed in the living room the boy gave up. Feelings coiled together things unfamiliar but not. With a growl he closed his eyes: he hated it when this happened. Everything felt so strange like somewhere deep in him was being clawed apart. His body felt riled with sudden energy ready to throw a punch or start screaming.
What is this feeling? Anger? Fustration? Annoyance? So many times did his sister try and explain emotions to him but nothing seemed to help him understand the foreign feelings. His normally furrowed brows lessened somewhat as he stared out the window looking at the delicate snowflakes descend from the dark skies. A laugh slipped past his mask and died as in a near sob. Now his chest hurt like someone had ripped his heart out.
Gods…It s hurts not being able to feel now… *** It was almost evening now and the crowds were dispersing as the light began to fade. The skies grew darker as the snow started to fall more steadily. On a street in District 28 people suddenly streamed out of a building. Smiles and happiness permeated the air but most could not detect the feeling.
Jalena smiled as people filed out of the bar. Her performance this night stained the air she could feel it.
I just wish they could feel it too… Already stored away her lyric sheets the girl picked up her bag and looped it around her shoulder.
There s too many dark eyes…They re starting to show up everywhere… Sadness hit her hard knowing that her brother too had lost the ability to feel.
And what s worse is that his eyes are completely black… Maybe her singing her emotion-imbused words could help those in the crowd turn away from their self-induced poison and clear their minds of the misfortunes and problems they experienced. Luckily she had managed to pick herself back up keep those thoughts away but not everyone could with what was going on in the world right now.
Still here Jally? She turned and gave a smile – only Axel would call her by that name. Jalena eyed the rather handsome man and gave a smile Yah just thinking about stuff… She left off she knew he understood the topic of her thoughts.
Hmm…That was good singing tonight by the way. Really made me feel something in my heart. The older man gave a smile You keep it up! Jalena gave a laugh and saluted on her way out.
Will do Axy!
Don t call me that!
Ahh…That blonde bombshell is always good for a chuckle… The twenty-five year old owner of Sable Infinity Bar always had words that were said with ease but full of sincerity that made her feel even better. There were only a few in the whole world who still had bright eyes. Eyes that had color.
Not tinted eyes that don t shine in the light… With a inward sigh the petit girl brushed her dyed long green hair over her shoulder and hurried on her way home.
Better hurry home… Jalena smiled knowing her older brother would be worrying about her right now.
Meow? The sound got her attention and stopped infront of the alley entrance. It was dark forboding.
Maybe it s a stray…I bet Jouya wouldn t mind if I brought it home… W-Wait! Come back! The boy in the alley felt the creature leave his arms could feel the bitter bite of the cold weather embrace him once more.
Wait!The act of giving comfort to another was something that helped calm himself and now that the creature was leaving… The boy gave a sharp scream in his mind as he stumbled on something right after trying to follow the retreating thing. Pain throbbed in his back especially his shoulders. Tears came to his eyes but he couldn t find the name for them as he whimpered silently.
Jalena jumped at the sudden crash in the alley the sharp of metal clanging together still echoing in her ears. She heard scuffling as if someone was trying to get up after a tumble. Considering to go and see her hesitancy faded when her chocolate brown eyes fell on a small figure coming into view. She gave a gasp and rushed into the alley kneeling next to the person who lay on the cold snow.
Hey are you alright? Aren t you…cold…? Her question died as her eyes adjusted to the darker surroundings the person a boy was in terrible condition. His clothes barely hung onto his thin body and was covered in bloodstains. Jalena gently tipped the boy s face up making sure he was consious and breathing then gave a gasp.
H-his eyes… Those startling lavender eyes were bright. Their sheen was spectacular compared to the dark fading colors she saw on those who lost hope. Those who lost the will to keep fighting against the problems the world threw at them.
But his eyes…They re…filled with tears?. Jalena gave a gasp and laid the hand she used to tip the boy s chin up onto his cheek.
A-Are you alright? You seem to be hurt everywhere… Her answer was silence. Frowning she watched the boy mouth something over and over again. His eyes darted back and forth and were glazed over with tears and something else.
Like…He can t focus on anything The girl s eyes widened could he not speak nor see?
Please don t hurt me whoever you are…I can hear your questions but I can t answer you… The warm hand started to stroke his cold cheek he shivered.
Can you hear me? The voice was soft gentle and understanding. He nodded and heard the girl give a relieved sigh
Can you speak? Here he shook his head and made his face into what he hoped was a wince as he rubbed his throat shaking his head. Then he shuffled away and tapped at his closed eyelids in hopes to let the girl know he couldn t see.
Wait- Th-They re open!! His body gave a shake and more water streamed down his face.
This water…W-What is it called? It had a name… You re eyes? What…Can t you see me? Heart lightened that she understood him somewhat he shook his head feeling more water run down his face.
You poor dear…Here…I ll take you to my home where you can get warm and dry. An arm hooked under his and jarred his injuries leaving him to scream in his mind.
Will you let me take you with me? The girl sounded so caring it was hard to deny her help besides he couldn t say no to dry clothes and a warm place to sleep. He nodded and felt himself be gently tugged to stand. He moved as best as he could favoring his left leg because of the burning pain he felt on his right side.
My back…Gods… It felt as though some of his skin had been ripped off and left great gaping wounds. He felt the girl pull him slowly and he walked blindly following her lead.
Meow?
T-The cat! He turned sharply then regretted it as pain blossomed over his body. Ignoring it he reached a hand out pointing in the direction he heard the cat.
I-Its cold out! It ll get freezing at night. It meowed again strengthening his attempt to get the girl s attention.
What is it? Is something wrong? She finally asked when he stopped walking with her.
Yes! I-I want to bring that furry creature with me! P-Please! He ached to hold something to him something he could comfort and be comforted by touch.
Well…Come on then…
I don t want to leave the cat behind… * * *
Cigarette smoke flew out of Jouya s mouth as he chuckled quietly.
Malakai s attempts are just too funny… The stubborn kid wouldn t accept that his flowers were dying and wouldn t survive for long even with the use of all the lamps of the apartment to appease the dying weed s picky needs.
Jouya! Nothing I do works! I ve tried everything and still- Can t you do anything besides smirk at me? And put out that cigarette…You know I hate those things…
Jouya couldn t help it Malakai s confusing mood changes were much too amusing although he felt guiltly for laughing. It had been days since he found anything worth a tug to his lips and the young teenager s antics were too funny to ignore.
Of course…I ve always liked the boy… Malakai had never really managed to grasp his emotions ever since his parent s death and lost his ability to feel emotions or understand what he felt. The questions the boy would ask him were always to the point and the needful look on his face made Jouya want to tell him and hide it from him at the same time to save him from the pain of knowing he couldn t feel.
Him and Jal…I can only hope Jalena can bring those feelings back soon… The cheery young girl had an aura about her that made everyone smile somehow – an ability much needed now.
She s a good influence… The twenty-two year old young man let his body slink back into his chair as he inhaled his cigarette
There are even times when I think I can understand some emotions now… The younger boy collapsed onto his knees next to his chair face stuck between pain and the expression of anger that Jalena had pointed out to him how to recognize the emotion. Many times Malakai knelt on the floor fists unclenching and clenching as he mumured silently face hidden by his long brown bangs. Jouya ran his crimson eyes over the younger and felt the need to comfort Kai again. After so many times of offering a comforting hand to the boy Jouya found it natural to just reach out and run his fingers through those long brown locks. Out of routine whenever Malakai collapsed from stress Jou would calm the boy.
Feeling gentle fingers wind through his hair Malakai gave a sigh and laid his cheek against Jouya s armrest of the chair . Dark velvet covering and a lamp next to it the area was strictly Jouya s. Opening his completely black eyes-
When had…I closed them? – Malakai looked around their average sized apartment just perfect for the three of them to live without trouble. Plant pots were now spread out across the whole living room they used to be in one corner but since the plants started to die…
No matter what I do… M-My flowers… He whimpered and suddenly moved so his cheek rested on the black-clothed knee of Jouya. The older shushed him telling him that everything dies eventually but never ceased the movement of those comforting fingers. The rattling emotions burned his mind and skin something like what Jalena described to him as anger.
Why can t I save them? They…They were doing so well… Water prickled at his eyes and kept his gaze blurry even when the door burst open he had no trouble to recognize who it was – no other girl lived with them. Only Jalena did.
Jou! Malakai! I-I need help!
Jouya let his fingers linger in Kai s hair only for a few extra seconds the boy had given a terrible jump at the sudden noise before gently pushing the boy off his knee. Striding over to the door he gave a gasp at what Jalena struggled to keep upright. A boy covered in bloodstains and injuries was slinking to the floor slowly as if he had no more strength to stand.
I-I found him about half a block away just past the Axel s bar! He s hurt bad and- She let out a yelp as her slick arm fell away from the boy s bloody shoulder and slipped from her grip. Jouya caught the boy and hoisted him up into his arms. Scooping around his knees and shoulders he nearly dropped the boy because of the scream the newcomer gave out.
Oh Gods! Quickly he made for Malakai s old bedroom and sat the injured boy rather than laying him down. Suspecting something wrong with his back Jouya quickly scanned over the barely clothed teenager.
Jal get me clean towels and the first aid kit! Malakai! Get me a bucket of warm water and bring them back!
Both nodded shakily and ran to get what he needed. Jouya turned to the strange new boy and bit his lip. Eyeing the long tangled mess of purple hair he fished out the hairtye he kept in his pocket the one he usually used on Jal s hair and quickly bound the hair from the boy s face and injuries.
Jouya! Here! I got you the towels and kit! Mala s just getting you a sponge!
Here Jou! Malakai ran in depositing the bucket of water on the ground A-anything else you need?
No close the door and leave me with him I ll need to concentrate while working over him.
A-Alright…
After shooing the other two away Jouya down the lights in the room guessing the boy would be startled when he woke up. He eyed the boy from a distance trying to guess what the boy had been through.
H-His back… Moving closer he saw two long diagonal cuts that ran with the line of his shoulder blades. The cuts were deep as if a sharp blade had sliced the skin very quickly. Unknown to Jou a look of great sympathy crossed his face as he reached out and let his fingers ghost along one of the cuts not actually touching the wound. The boy on the bed stirred shivering suddenly as he twisted on his stomach. The movement startled the older from his thoughts and swirled his fingers gently into the boy s tangled hair as carefully as he could.
Sh…Shh…It s alright… And the boy calmed just as Jouya thought he would.
With knowing hands Jouya cleaned the boy s back so that it was free of blood and the dirt. With no trouble he turned the boy so he was facing him and wrapped a bandage around his stomach where large cuts had been made then laid the boy on his stomach once more.
This isn t good…He s far too light… The boy was cleaned and bandaged now but would it be enough? He let his hand sink back into the boy s long purple hair taking a liking to the color.
Maybe I ll get Jal to stay in here for the night… -from our realm forever. Take him away! Hands grabbed him roughly and the next thing the boy knew pain inflamed his body as knives cut into his body then it grew into more that made him scream. Before passing out he felt hands hands everywhere…Shouts…Someone crying? And hands pulling at his hair at his limbs and laughter…
Laughter. Lavender eyes creaked open faltering until he realized he was awake now – the hand touching him wasn t a dream person. Panicked and terribly scared he started to thrash around hoping to make the person go away.
Don t touch me! Don t hurt me please! P-Please go away!!! His mind screamed as did his best to crawl away from the person who was touching him frightening him.
Jouya froze and felt something call out to him words from somewhere.
Don t touch me! Don t hurt me please!… There was more but the shock to where it was coming from. But there Jou could somehow feel the words in the air coming from the boy who was still on the bed thrashing around.
But wait…How can I…How can I feel? He blinked and suddenly knelt by the bed trying to calm the boy.
Shhhh…I m not going to hurt you…I want to help you but if you keep moving around like that…You re hurt…I won t hurt you… Whispering quietly he hesitantly placed his hand back on the boy s head just resting it there before letting his fingers slide through his long locks. The boy gave a shudder and turned his face towards him. Jouya stared at that face and something hammered him in his chest.
The boy was crying tears welling up in his eyes as he silently shook his head back and forth.
H-His eyes… They were so…alive with emotion. Lavender and so…expressive. Jou s crimson eyes softened as did his movements till his fingers slide through the boy s hair at a slow pace. The boy closed his eyes and looked to be crying but no sound came out. Then he realized the boy s gaze was darting around everywhere as if he couldn t focus on one thing.
Where are you…Oh…I-I wish I could see you… More words from nowhere hit Jou. The older didn t stop to think how the words got to him he knelt closer to the boy s bedside and placed a hand on the boy s cheek something he always did with Malakai.
Can t you see me? The boy shook his head
At least he can hear me… Jou gave a small shushing sound
Oh…Poor kid…No one s going to hurt you here…You can close your eyes and sleep. Shifting into a more comfortable position Jouya let his fingers start to run through the boy s hair again.
I should brush it when he up and about… For a few seconds as the boy looked around more carefully and with purpose they locked eyes. Those few seconds before the boy turned his gaze elsewhere was enough to make that hammer feeling happen again in his chest.
Thank you… And the boy laid his head back down hesitantly before closing his brillant lavender eyes. Jou stayed with him until he was fully asleep and found it hard to leave the strange boy s side.
* * *
Jalena glanced at her brother and continued her worried pacing. The girl stopped here and there to examine the flowers and plants trying to figure out how to help them but the distraction only lasted a few minutes before she began walking around the living room again. That strange boy…Oh I do hope he ll be alright… There couldn t be more than a couple years of age difference between hersef and the stranger she could tell by the face shape and build of his body that had been exposed from under the few clothes he had worn. Jal glanced at her brother once more and then sighed. Malakai was rested his head against Jou s chair again kneeling and biting his fingernails again.
Oh Malakai don t do that… The youth jumped when he felt hands tug at his wrists. Oh…I was biting them again… A bad habit of his – biting his fingernails – his sister always had to stop him or Jou would. Jouya… The older man was like a security blanket to Malakai something that needed to be pulled around the other. As if he was beckoned by the youth s thoughts Jou gave a weary sigh as he entered the living room. Sitting up straight Malakai gave a hopeful smile and patted the man s chair. His smile grew when the older man nodded and sat down and patted his knee. Not caring it was strange Malakai rested his cheek on the offered headrest and nearly purred when he felt fingers run through his hair.
Is he alright? Voice quiet Mala raised his head somewhat eyes meeting the older s.
Yah is he alright Jou? Jal still next to him asked as well Did he tell you anything? He doesn t seem to want to talk or won t…And he can t see either…
Jou opened his mouth intending to tell the strange few minutes when he felt something. Felt emotions of concern worry and the fear from the strange boy. But I ll keep that from them…It won t help anything right now… No he doesn t seem to talk or see… Jou patted Malakai s head and let his fingers gently comb through the other s smooth locks But it doesn t matter…You two should get to bed… You both can meet our guest formally in the morning…
But Jou!
But I don t want to leave-
Both of you off to bed now… Keeping his voice firm Jouya gently pushed the boy s head off his knee and gave him a rare smile. I ll see you in the morning… The
unusual smile seemed to make Malakai s day even thought it was night with a nod the younger boy hurried off to his room that he often shared. Turning his crimson eyes to the green-haired girl Jouya gave a lesser smile
Goodnight Jally…I ll take care of him during the night…
O-kay… With a little knowing smile Jalena disappeared down the hall then came back to the living room with sleeping things. Jou noticed the extra pillow and blanket he raised a smooth eyebrow at the young girl
Malakai will surely come visit you while he thinks you re asleep… The girl gave a small giggle and left the living room once more He always does! She said last before going into her room.
That he does… Jouya gave a small sigh and fished a cigarette from his pocket and lit it. Drawing in a deep breath the man held it in before exhaling the smoke. Eyes watched the smoke fade disapear into the air and stain the surroundings with the tell-tale smell. After another Jou frowned and then put it out pressing it into the ash tray on the small table next to him. Malakai hates smoking… Not giving in to his cigarette cravings he waited for the younger boy to make his silent entrance attempt again. It was always fun to lead the teenager on letting him think he was being as sneaky when he crept in to sleep next to him. Then surprise him by tugging him closer… The man gave a chuckle and started thinking about their strange relationship. Malakai had always been clingy to those around him especially after his parents died suddenly. Those times were dark when Mala lost his heart and ability to feel. For about week the boy hadn t reacted at all much and was unusually quiet but somewhere in his mind it suddenly dawned on him that his parents were dead.
Gods…That night terrified me… Jou let his eyes close slowly remembering how that scream made something hammer hard at his chest. I thought something had happened to him… Those nights after the realization were horrible every night the boy woke up screaming himself hoarse. Every night he screamed out for his parents yelling for them to come in and comfort him.
But they never answered…They…They were dead…
That s when Jouya finally couldn t watch the boy suffer and when Malakai woke screaming again he went into the boy s room and talked to him a soft voice. The boy would start to cry asking what made those teardrops fall down his face and when everything would stop hurting.
And I gave no answer… All Jouya did run his fingers through the younger s hair and whisper to him that it d all be alright in the end that he should get more sleep. It worked telling him to sleep some more but an hour or so later he d wake screaming again. After the neighbors started to complain Jouya had been nearly out of hope. But the boy provided the solution after one night of begging to sleep in the same room. Apparently the comforting touch had helped the younger boy greatly and Malakai started to sleep in his room. Those first few weeks the boy insisted to kneel next to the bed resting his head in his arms and knelt the whole night no matter how much Jou tried to reassure the young one that sharing a bed wasn t a bother.
He said he didn t want to be trouble… Jou opened his eyes which were glazed just a little
He actually said that… He chuckled which died in a small sigh.
Who said what? The curious voice asked him and with a slight turn of the head Jouya saw Malakai standing near the living room entrance. The boy gave a surprised start at his daring and seemed to draw his body closer to him. This made Jouya laugh quietly at the shy one s actions
I was just thinking about things that happened a long time ago…What someone once told me…
What did they say to you? The boy unconsiously came closer head tilted to the side to prove his interest as he knelt by Jou s chair.
Well… The older paused and then patted his knee Malakai gave a happy smile and accepted the invitation.
This person long ago told me they didn t want to be trouble to me…
O-oh…
Do you remember what I told him…
Yes…
Jou smiled wishing the younger could feel the affectionate love that he had for the boy. Im pretty sure I love him…I could say I love you to anyone…But to some people the words wouldn t be easy to say…
He leaned down and placed a kiss on top of the boy s head
Good…I don t want you to ever forget what I told you… The hardest I love you to say…Is always the truest…
*** Sometime in the night Jouya carefully got out of his chair and lifted the light boy into his arms. With great care not to wake or hurt the younger Jou set Malakai down on his precious seat and tucked blankets around him. Sparing a few extra seconds the older let his hands run through the boy s hair and smoothed the bangs from his young face. With a smile Jouya turned down the lights in the living room and disappeared into the hall. There he waited outside Malakai s old room where their guest was sleeping and frowned. Leaning closer to the door Jou pulled back with worry – he heard rustling and the bed squeaking from sudden movements. As fast as he could with with no noise he snuck into the room and closed the door behind him.
What…. The boy was thrashing around mouth soundless screaming as he slept – was he going into some kind of seizure?
G-Gods! Jou scrambled to the boy s side and held those thin shoulders hoping to keep him from struggling as he checked for breathing and vital signs. After a very fast evaluation of the boy Jouya frowned what was wrong with him?
His eyes are closed…Maybe…Oh! Maybe it s a nightmare! But it was odd how come he wasn t making any noise how come-
He can t speak…
Well duh…That s why he s… Kneeling closer to the bed Jouya found his hands starting to run through the strange boy s hair as well.
Hey…Shhh it s only a dream…It s okay…
The boy felt a voice pierce through all the images he heard it was soft and gentle.
Hey…Shhh it s only a dream…It s okay… But it didn t feel like words it felt like something talking with something other than words maybe feelings? With a jolt he sat up arms flailing to keep away the people surrounding him grabbing at him tearing at his limbs. Numbly he felt someone s fingers combing though his hair and heard those soothing whispers again.
W-Where am I? Who s touching me!?! With some effort he pushed the fingers away and tried to sit up. Eyes darting around he found he still could not see – was his hoping for the darkness to go away? Still black as ever the lack of light frightened him terribly.
Jouya accepted the fact his attempts for comfort wasn t wanted and kept his hands to himself. Again he felt the other s thoughts as if they were speaking again without words. How he didn t care as long as he made some kind of communication with the strange boy.
You re in my house in an apartment. You re in District 18 right now where the working buildings are located. Guessing that the boy was thinking all of his questions Jou licked his lips and closed his eyes.
D-Does that help you? Y-Yes…But who are you? Why are you touching me? The voice he heard in his mind was panicked full of fear and apprehension. Jou opened his eyes and started to reach out towards the boy once more but stopped himself.
Best answer first…. My name is Jouya Tynan. You seemed to be having a nightmare and…Well I guess I should ve seen if I had permission to touch you. I apologize. The man paused My friend said she found you in an alley hurt and cut everywhere. She brought you here and I bandaged you up I m sorry but it had to be done. It s pretty late almost midnight but I wanted to check in on you. Did I bandage you alright? Are they too tight?
The boy frowned processing the kind gentle words.
He…apologized to me for touching me… This person was very thoughtful obviously feeling as though the breach of space was a crime. Slowly uncurling his body from his somewhat defensive ball he flexed his body where he felt bandages and gave a hesitant smile.
I-I m alright- He started to speak but remembered he couldn t speak.
I m alright. Your bandages are fine…Thank you… May I ask you some questions? The man Jouya asked him. Frowning again eyes open and trying to target where the voice was coming from he nodded. Where are you from? And what is your name please.
Those manners again… But forgetting the man s politeness the boy though back hard wondering what the answers to those questions were.
My name…How I came here?… Squeezing his eyes tight the boy relieved his last few memories.
I remember…those people and hands and then this… Darkness. And any hint of a name was lost to him –
Great…I m useless…I can t even remember my name… Jouya stifled a laugh did the boy think himself useless? All of a sudden ever since his girlfriend s death Jouya felt again. All of that time without feeling or differentiating emotions…
Don t think like that. You are useful – no one is useless. And about your name…Well…We ll figure something out in the morning. You need sleep and I do as well.
O-Okay… The strange boy suddenly locked eyes with Jouya again before darting them away with a sad frown.
Do you…Do you have something I could hold while I sleep? I found a cat outside…It let me hold it and it was…comforting. Yeah…yeah I can give you something. I ll be right back…
Leaving the boy s side Jou hurried to his room across the hall. Opening it looking past the magazines and plants and different interesting pictures Jouya found the teddybear he placed on a shelf a long time ago. It was purple with black shiny eyes and a cute smile. It was his old girlfriend s purple being her favorite color he had given her the bear just a few days before she died in that crash. A mist started to grow over his eyes but he blnked the sheen away and gave a smile
Purple…it reminds me of that boy s hair… Having found what he d been searching for Jou closed his bedroom door and returned to the boy s room.
You re back…Where did you go? I got you something to hug…I-It s a teddybear so it ll be soft and fluffy like that cat you had in the alley.
Oh…How long am I to stay here Mr. Jouya? The man couldn t help but laugh. P-Please haha don t call me Mr. Jouya. I prefer it just Jouya.
Okay but still… We ll figure everything out in the morning you get to sleep now.
Alright…Thank you… Jouya paused before closing the door admiring the strange aura around the boy now that he wasn t near the boy s side it felt colder and less…Less something?
No problem but how can you speak? I mean you-you aren t speaking yet I can hear what you say or-or think…How is that possible? For almost a minute Jou got no answer and started to think the boy was asleep when he heard/felt the boy speak once more.
Your heart told me what you were feeling… But…I-I don t have a heart…I don t feel… Still confused as ever Jouya took the couch and tossed and turned much to get comfortable. For this night he had forsaken his chair for Malakai but no again.
No tomorrow I ll let him cuddle up if he wants… With some trouble he closed his eyes and found sleep at three in the morning.
***
How dare you face the council! You have committed Infidelity! Do you or do you not admit that you meddled what did not matter to you?
-mean to! But what you re planning is cruel and I won t let you get-
-banished because of me…I am so sorry you they think it s you…
-away and don t even prepare him for the Falling! The longer he can t regain his senses the better! Away with him!
– you! I always will! I ll watch over you even if I lose my life!
-swear it! I swear it! ***
The boy jumped feeling water stream down his face soaking into the pillow he was using. Blinking rapidly the blazing white images he saw faded back into darkness. The blackness wasn t any different still a void that sucked up all color and light. So dark.
So unlike home… Even though it was useless the boy blinked in surprise: So unlike home? With hope he squeezed his eyes shut pointless as well and thought hard.
Maybe…Somehow…I ll get my sight and voice and everything will come back to me! Come on…What can I remember? Well…Home was very bright…Always light out…Not like this constant darkness I see now… The boy guessed the contrast of what he was used to light and what he saw now dark made him remember.
Keep going…Ah…Nothing else… Feeling rather hungry the boy thought about going to find that nice Mr. Jouya and food but sadly remembered he had no sight to help him.
I-I guess…I ll wait until they come check up on me… The incredible lonely feeling lessened when his hands which had been searching for the blankets fell on the teddy bear Mr. Jouya had given him.
Oh…I wish I could see…Speak and remember… Hugging the very soft toy the boy whimpered as he hugged it tighter.
Jooou-ya! Maaala-kai! If you want to eat I suggest you get over here quick before I eat all the pancakes! Malakai gave a mew of disappointment and glanced behind him. Jouya met his eyes and gave a shrug
I ll finish brushing it later alright?
Okay! The younger squiggled out of the shield of blankets and jumped off the couch to hurry to his seat. About to slice his pancake into pieces Malakai stopped and looked over at Jouya who was still standing in the living room.
I hope Jou isn t too tired…He must have checked on the boy sometime last night… Smiling at the man s thoughtfulness the youth put his cutlery down.
Are you alright Jouy? He watched the older blink and give him a smile that warmed Malakai s cheeks.
Of course…I m just gonna check on our guest alright? As Jou passed by the man played with the youth s hair letting it comb through the locks. Malakai beamed eyes following the man until he had disappeared down the hall.
Maly your pancakes are going to go cold! Jalena teased as she poked his with a fork.
Oh right! The youth started to eat thoughts still on Jouya.
With slender fingers Jou tucked his long black hair behind a pierced ear and hesitated before tapping gently on the guest s door.
H-Hey Voice rather shaky the man cleared his throat Are you awake in there? Knowing the boy couldn t speak he waited for a few seconds just in case he was interrupting. Tapping once more Jou opened the door to find the boy sitting on the bed crying. Mind blank on what to do he glanced down the hall at the others – they were still eating – and then stepped into the room and shut the door behind him. The boy had brought the blankets around him and was hugging the teddy bear tightly in his arms. Silent sobs shook the thin boy s shoulders obviously upset. Coughing quietly Jou watched the boy stiffen and stop his crying as long as he could as if he was listening.
It s me… The man said softly and was surprised to see the boy let got of the teddy bear with one hand and started reaching out.
W-Where are you? The boy was asked suddenly abandoning the bear to search him out. Jou paused then let his fingers meet the other s. The boy s tear-filled eyes shut and the boy suddenly hugged his hand to him grip just as tight as it had been on the bear. Jou s eyes widened as the boy started to sob again
W-What s wrong? Why are you crying?
He got no answer.
There now…Isn t that better? Voice soft Jouya set down the brush and admired the glossy purple locks. Running his fingers through the tresses the man smiled and offered a small handful to the boy Here. Their fingers touched and Jou swore he could
feel even if it was for only a second.
This boy…He seems to harbor something that makes…one feel? The man had to admit there was some kind of air that hung around the strange boy comforting and relaxing. Jou heard the boy give a happy cry and turned those sightless bright lavender eyes at him.
I-It s all nice and brushed…T-Thank you Mr. Jouya! Haha…The pleasure was mine… It was true Jou s fingers itched to return to those soft although slightly greasy locks that ran to the boy s mid-back. He paused eyeing their guest
We need a name for you still…Can you remember anything at all?
No… Sensing the boy s sadness almost though he didn t know why he had no heart Jouya smiled kindly.
It s alright. My friends and I will help you find a name until you can remember yours. Oh that reminds me are you hungry?
With tired fingers Malakai snipped off another leaf from one of his precious plants. This latest scheme of his was to take off all the unneeded leaves so the stem wouldn t have to hold so much thus letting it live longer from the lack of strain.
Oh…This isn t working… The familiar sting at his eyes told him he d cry again soon so he almost threw the scissors on the ground but stopped himself. Trying to remember what his sister told him he closed his eyes and took a deep breath trying to relax. That explosive feeling in his muscles disappeared and set the scissors down on the table next to him.
Where is Jou-ya…? Missing the older man s calming presence Malakai jumped up from the floor but stopped to scoot his plant into the spot of sunlight that spilled through the curtains of the living room. Smiling he started down the hall but stopped.
Hey Malakai could you give me a hand?
Jou-ya! He stopped when he saw that the boy Jou held by the hands jump terribly. Covering his mouth he murmured an apology
I-I m sorry…I didn t mean to startle you…
I-it s okay…
Hey! You can talk!
No he can t Malakai. Let me explain I think he can-
But I heard him!
What s going on you two? Jalena had abandoned her book that she was reading and strode over to the kitchen entrance curious. Oh he s awake! That s great! Is he hungry? She waited patiently then frowned I thought you said he could talk Malakai…?
But he answered didn t you hear him? Jalena frowned even more and glanced at Jouya to see if this was a joke. The man wouldn t meet her gaze
Umm…Are you hungry? She waited a few seconds.
He said yes but it was very quiet so I don t blame you if you didn t hear it this time. Malakai informed her brightly.
Jalena frowned But I can t hear him.
*** Malakai hadn t stopped asking their guest questions and seemed oblivious to the rather reluctant replies giving during breakfast. Although the older man always sat next to Malakai Jou seated himself on the guest s side assisting the younger in eating and finding things on the table. An odd feeling in his chest made him glance up at Malakai across the table and was surprised to see those black eyes staring at him with pain and longing.
Wait a minute…How can I feel or sense what Malakai is feeling?? Jou blinked and suddenly glanced at the new boy next to him saw him smiling slightly trusting and waiting for another lead in the right direction.
If only Jally was here…She could explain everything to me… The older gave a sigh for once wishing that she didn t have a performance that day but the girl was adamant that she would perform in hopes others might feel. True he was proud that the young girl believed so strongly that she could help others but now he slightly regretted the girl s stubbornness. Tearing away from his thoughts Jou helped the purple-haired boy with eating
Here…Open your mouth… Motions slow and careful the man fed the boy. Jouya found it hard under Malakai s hurt gaze.
Malakai Jou noticed was rather hyper after breakfast not that Jou was complaining too much. It was rare to find the youth so vibrant the man guessed it was their guest s presence that instilled the youth with such zeal.
How can his mere presence affect us so?… Jouya was watching the boy sit across from him as he brushed Malakai s brown locks.
What is it about him that calls out to what was lost so long ago… He knew full well that without a heart one couldn t feel or differentiate emotions but since this boy s arrival both he and Malakai who both lost their hearts could feel.
How is that possible? Although the black-eyed youth s hair had been free from tangles for a long time Jou still ran the brush through the smooth hair. The action was comforting something he would always do and found a calming effect on his mind and heart whatever was left of it. Jou spared a glanced down at Malakai who was leaning back against his chest as he sat perched on the armrest of the couch.
Him and his silly antics… Surprisingly enough Malakia hadn t been brought down much by his lack of feeling he was still rather optimistic and the tantrums at his misfortune had lessen greatly since the incident .
The incident… Stopping his hands Jouya felt his heart wrench at the mere memory that was suddenly called up after thinking of the word.
***
The phone s ringing!
Got it!
Malakai who is it?
…
Mally? What s wrong? W-why are you crying?
M-Mom and dad…They…
T-They re what? Mala give me the phone!
…
O-Oh gods! J-Jou! Jou!
What is it? What happened?
G-Gods! Mal-Malakai! Your eyes!
Sirens. ***
Malakai frowned Jou s brushing had stopped. In hopes to get the older man s attention he gave a mew of disappointment. Still not getting a response he tilted his head back to see what Jou was doing he didn t expect the man s eyes to be closed.
Jou? His loud whisper seemed to startle their guest and he gave a shaky smile Sorry… He said directing it to the quiet purple-haired boy.
Jou-Ya…. Turning up again he gave a pout and nudged the man s ribs gently Jou Jou are you alright?
What?
Giggle. Are you alright? You got all…Thoughtful there and I missed feeling the brushing moving in my hair.
Brush?
You stopped silly. Malakai suddenly found himself wrapped up in the older man s arms felt them snake around his thin frame and hug him tightly. The youth s black eyes curved upwards in a smile as he closed his eyes relishing the hug no matter how often he got them they were always cherished. Leaning back in the embrace he nearly purred when Jou s hands tightened their hold.
But…I sense something…Something like pain from Jou-Ya…. His black eyes opened slowly lips pursed slightly as he thought through what his heart told him.
Jou-Ya…How come you feel sad? He felt the older stiffen slightly and Malakai nodded I can
feel pain or something coming from you…How come I can
feel? I haven been able to since…That night… His tone was still quiet soft and child-like as he turned slightly to look up at Jouya. The man s crimson eyes were open
I don t know…
I-I shouldn t be here…This is…private and for them… The boy untensed his body feeling extremely tired. He had figured out that when he thought spoke they could hear easily and sometimes managed to hear his own personal thoughts. Finding that if he mentally willed himself to be closed off to them he could keep his thoughts from what he wished to voice or speak out loud. It felt odd listening to only voices and being able to hear only the lack of speech and sight really impaired much of his usefulness. It hurt to breath and it really hurt his cut-up shoulder blades when he made the slightest movement. The medicine that that kind girl gave him earlier helped alot although the slight discomfort now wasn t very enjoyable.Sitting cross-legged on the couch he kept his hands on his lap fidgeting with the soft cushion he was given.
I wonder…If they are together.. So many questions he wanted to ask but most were unneeded and just part of his curiousness to what they looked like among other things. He blinked a couple times hoping his vision was really getting better. There was a very slight change in what he could see – rather than complete darkness he could detect a very dark grey shade.
At least…The change was big enough for me to notice… Look Jou! The older man felt the youth sudden wriggle in his still tight hold and reluctantly let the boy go. Malakai gave a laugh and opened the curtains more Look! Look! The angels in the sky are ruffling their wings!
What? Jou blinked.
An odd way to put it…But it is Malakai… Following the youth he realized that the youth was right the sky was filled with white snowflakes.
W-What…What are angels? Confusion took over Jouya once more didn t he know what angels were? Everyone knew of the legendary ethereal creatures that lived in the sky.
N-no…That was me… Turning Jou remembered their guest for the moment Oh…I-I m sorry I was lost in thought there…Angels are-
Angels are the people in the sky with really white wings and little crowns of gold. They live up in the clouds and when they shake their wings their feathers fall to Earth here and cover everything with snow! Jou smiled affectionately shaking his head at Malakai s excited explanation as he skipped over to sit next to the purple-haired boy. And they re everywhere! They can fly around without flapping their wings sometimes and they take care of the rain and sunshine! Some people actually curse Angels sometimes! Some are angry at Angels for letting everyone on Earth be sad and lose their hearts…
Angels…They…They sound beautiful..But L-Lose their hearts? What do you mean? Jou listened carefully and kept an ear on when the youth told too much about this rather sensitive subject. He didn t want the boy to know that they didn t have hearts most shunned heartless people saying that they weren t worth any time because they were so depressed or something relating to it.
They don t know that they could lose their hearts in seconds like I did… Jou leaned against the couch now vacant of Malakai and watched the two younger boys interact. Malakai was holding the guest s hands playing with his fingers at times as he rattled on about the heartless society and all it had to offer and didn t.
I like their eyes…Both of theirs… There was something about seeing completely black eyes and brilliantly colored eyes…
Like puzzle pieces finding their lock and key… -doesn t know how to tell what this is and what that is… It s very not fun you know… Jou and me both of us-
Dammit! He s going to tell! Jou thought quickly
H-Hey Malakai look outside…
Blink. I already did Jou-Ya. And I told you that it s snowing.
Yeah but what about your flowers?
Jou-Ya! What am I gonna do? W-Where are the scissors? They ll get cold! I m not gonna let them die!
*** The young one was silent the only exception was the few sniffles he gave as he slept. A stab of guilt flowed through Jou s heart whatever was left of it and tousled the boy s hair with gentle hands. Malakai had attempted to save his precious plants once more realizing that the snow and cold would try and kill them but he gave up after some time and shed tears. Now that the boy was asleep Jouya glanced at their guest still sitting and unmoving as he looked around the room. His large bright eyes gazed around blinking here and there in a rather cute fashion. With a small chuckle Jou shifted Malakai s head onto his knee guessing the height of the chair s armrest would strain the younger s neck even more and then turned his attention on the strange boy with the colored eyes.
Do you have any where else to go?
He jumped eyes darting to where he heard the voice penetrate his circling thoughts. Mind going blank he didn t answer still trying to find the source of the voice. The man asked him again and this time he narrowed down his focus to a place on his left he felt proud of himself before the pain and worry of his situation set in.
I don t think so…I can t…I can t remember Mr. Jouya… He waited for an answer but after a few seconds guessed he wouldn t get one. Switching back to his personal thoughts he wondered what they man would ask him – maybe he wasn t wanted here? Sadness swept into his heart knowing that his guess was probably true. Looking around the room again trying to find the man again he paused. A very light sound met his ears it sounded like wind.
B-breathing? He focused and rose so he was kneeling as he lifted his gaze up from the sound of breathing. Guessing he was seeing the man eye to eye he opened his mind for more talking .
Would you…like me to go? I mean…If I am trouble I can find someplace to…to stay instead. He blinked
Mr. Jouya… He added remembering manners and politeness where had he learned it he wondered.
I didn t mean that it s just that I was wondering if you re family would worry for you.
-get into trouble! The Anointed Ones will find out and both of you will suffer the consequences!
I don t care! It s just a little fun! Besides him here and I don t have anyone to hold an argument over our bad actions .
-Doubt you ll get away with it… * * *
Whatever it was something clicked in the boy s mind – he was being referred to as him here . The words sounded vaguely familiar as if he had seen or heard it before in the past long ago.
I-I…I have no one… He clutched his chest feeling pain there. It spread and he winced as it the feeling hammered into him once more.
Are-are you alright? Are your injuries bothering you? The man s kind voice broke his thoughts and he shook his head
I…hurt? Did he? He couldn t tell and soon he was shocked to feel water falling down his face. The boy let his fingers slide down the side of his face tracing the warm trail of…of what?
I-I can t remember…There…There was a special name for them too… He had felt the strange water earlier that morning and Mr. Jouya had been there to help him too. He blinked away the water and wiped at his face with the back of his hand that was unbandaged.
I have no one Mr. Jouya… Oi can I have a schedule for your performances? Oh and can I request a song for you to sing tomorrow? Questions bombarded the young singer who blushed a light pink and asked for a pen and some paper. Her fans which were many always made her smile. Scribbling down her week s schedule Jalena glanced around at the group of people thrilled to see some of their eyes brighter than before. It was the best profit – knowing she was helping them relearn to find their hearts and mend them.
There you go Sir I hope you return tomorrow night! The girl beamed at the enthusiastic nod and shook her long green hair from her eyes as she glanced at the clock on the bar s wall.
Time to get home… I am sorry but I have to return home now. Please come again tomorrow at the same time and thank you very much for staying for my songs!
She gently pushed her way through the crowd lyric sheets and own microphone packed away in her backpack. She caught Axel s gaze who nodded and waved a goodbye which she returned with a smile. Leaving the bar the girl looked up at the snowing sky and gave a laugh as the angel s feathers as Malakai called them fell on her face. They tickled and made her happiness double at the thought of being home soon seeing her brother. She loved him dearly her younger brother he was still himself even without a heart.
I wonder how he ll take this guest of ours…That boy seems to like comfort as well… With a small giggle Jalena made her way down the street. People that she knew waved and others nodded their head to the well-known girl many in her district knew her as the girl that sang her heart out for others.
Meow?
She paused and glanced at her right. It was that alley the one where she found that strange boy in.
And that cat… Something clicked in her mind –
That cat! The…The boy kept stopping and reaching out behind him the whole way when I took him to the apartments…M-Maybe the cat is his! Dropping her bag on the snowy ground the girl hesitated before stepping into the alley making small coaxing noises
Here kitty…Here kitty! Voice soft she pushed her bangs away from her face as she leaned down trying to get level with where the cat might be.
He stopped meowing and emerged from between the garbage cans he had been hiding behind. Bright golden eyes fell unblinkingly on the human girl surprised this creature wasn t as dumb as the other humans he had encountered in this form.
But then again…They are humans… Meowing once more he expected the girl to let out a squeal like that last female human and pinch at his fur but it never happened.
Hey…There you are… She crouched low one hand on the freezing ground the other reaching out very slowly towards him. Once again Domanis was surprised – the girl kept her movements slow and predictable not erratic. His still aching ears where thankful for the gentle touch she gave to him when he made his way to her offered hand.
That little human earlier…I don t think my ears or memory will ever let that one go… The human girl s fingers ran across his ears slow and careful as she giggled quietly when he started to purr.
I guess I ll let myself purr…I did manage to find her… Allowing him the small pleasure he let her run her small hand down his glossy furred back.
I m sorry little Cat. I didn t realize you might have belonged to that boy…Come on I ll take you home to your owner…
That s right…Ranae technically belongs to me… The human girl shushed him when he started to meow in protest he did not want to be carried around like some unintelligent domesticated creature. But she didn t put him down only stroked his ears
Hush now…You must have been here all night and day…I m sorry for leaving you here by yourself… Her words didn t heal his pride whatever was left after being demoted to use a cat s form forgoing his ethereal body and splendor. Still struggling Domanis felt the human girl hug him closer not too tight yet firm enough to let him know he was staying there.
Your paws must be frozen little Cat…I know you don t like it but I ll carry you home. It s not too far but I don t want you any colder… The thoughtfulness of the human girl surprised him and inwardly shrugged the girl did have logic for indeed his paws were near frozen. Ceasing his cries he curled closer in the girl s arms having to admit that it felt rather nice to be treated with this much kindness at home he was seen as an abomination because of his split bloodline.
But let s not dwell on that… His heart ached – he missed his ward greatly no matter how upset he acted at being assigned to watch over the Fallen angel.
I told you…Swore to you Ranae…That I d watch over you… And he was on his way to fulfilling his promise.
The snow kept falling sprinkling his black fur with the white shards of frozen water. With a quiet meow Domanis bit back his pride and better judgment and rested his head on the girl s shoulder. He missed Ranae s warm aura that certain air around him that made him feel at ease that feeling was rare to Domanis.
But…But he won t return home now…They took his wings away…And they banished the others… It wasn t fair! He glared up at the sky cursing the great rulers of the sky – they
knew Ranae did not do the forbidden but still cast him out of their realm. Knowing that the angel hadn t been prepared for his Falling Domanis bit back a pained meow at the thought of his ward