Chapter XV: Memories and Plans

Morning came. Onmaen and Zilch have decided to go visit Nix in the Schneere Manor. The two met up in the park.

"Oi! Zilch!" Onmaen shouted. The girl waved back and walked towards him. "Hey there."

The two walked through the group of children playing and gazed at the perfect sky.

"Seems ironic, doesn't it?" Zilch said. "Bad luck always follows us, and here we are looking at the perfect sky."

"Yeah." Onmaen replied. "Hey listen... I got to tell you something..." he looked sideways. "What is it?"

"Well, it turns out that Lexi was Nate's Ex." he replied, still avoiding eye contact. "Oh? Really?" Zilch asked. "Yes. Worst part is... I saw them kissing."

"No way!" Zilch replied. "I don't know what to do. You gotta help me." Onmaen looked at Zilch, eyes filled with desperation.

"Sure. What are friends for!" she beamed with a smile. And they reached the manor.

The manor was as usual flawless. The butler already let the two come in and pointed to where Nix's room was located.

The two carefully climbed the stairs, although it almost took them an eternity to do it.

They were in front of Nix's Room.

*knock*

"Hey Nix... It's us..." the two came in carefully opening the door.

"Onmaen! Zilch!" she replied.

She was not in a good shape. She was in her bed, obviously still exhausted from what happened. Her eyes were red, evident that she hasn't gotten much sleep. Or she was crying. Or both.

The three took sometime to chat and so on. It was touching how they never got to communicate these days. It's just that love was always in the way.

"You know what will be a great idea?" Onmaen asked excitedly. "How about we three go out tomorrow! No worries! No lovelife! Just the three of us getting back together!" he smiled.

"That'll be great!" "No problems here!"

"Okay then! We'll meet at the park at nine. Is that okay?" he once more asked again.

"Sure."

A few more laughs, jokes, conversations were made before the two went out of the manor.

"I wish we had more times like these." Zilch said with a smile. "Yeah! How come we never do stuff like that anymore?" Onmaen asked. "Love. And a little bad luck." Zilch replied.

And the two walked laughing.

Chapter XIV: Trails and Troubles

No Name pushed the silver button engraved with an arrow pointing south. A faint "DING!" sounded from the silver doors which slid open and No Name stepped inside. "Er, hi," a familiar voice said. It was Nathan. "Hi," No Name said plainly. He was still angry about the whole Lexi incident but he didn't know the story behind it yet.

"Going to the lobby?" Nathan asked. No Name nodded his head and looked at the digital numbers blaring on top of the doors. 5... 4... 3... 2... G. "We're here, I think," Nathan said with a smile as he and No Name exited the elevator. Just then, they saw Nix in the arms of a man who was familiar to No Name, "Yxir!" he said and rushed to Nix who was unconscious. "Damn you bastard! You dare to show your face to me again, I swear, you're dead meat!" Nathan threatened Yxir after punching him squarely on the jaw. "Dude, she collapsed. I was only trying to help," Yxir reasoned out, his lip already bleeding. "Touch her again, you die."

No Name came back to where Trent and Zilch was, handed them their clothes and told them what happened. "She's ok now. She was just in shock, 'cause of Yxir that's why she fainted. Nate took her home so she could rest," he said.

"That cunt, wait till I get my hands on him," Zilch said, rising from the bed. "No, hun. That matter will be taken care of by me, No Name and Nate," Trent said, putting his hand on Zilch's shoulder. "Oh well, we might as well go now. I'll take you home," Trent said and both waved goodbye to No Name who was actually thinking of talking to Lexi but he shunned the idea. He didn't know what to say.

"I really don't know what happened back there," Zilch said. "Hmm?" Trent asked. "Near the river, when it was raining. It felt so... right," Zilch muttered, slightly blushing. "If you like getting hospitalized, wearing wet clothes and numb bodies, then that's good for you," Trent said jokingly. "No, really," Zilch said looking at Trent. "So... I guess this is it," Trent said, shoving his hands in his pocket. "This is what?" Zilch stepped closer, eyes hopeful. "This is goodbye, 'cause we're right in front of your house," Trent said with a smile.

'What was I thinking anyway?' "Oh right... Well, thanks and take care," Zilch said hurriedly and unlocked the door, slamming it afterwards. She was so embarrassed.

Chapter XIII: Sorrows of the Past

While she was driving their way to the hospital, he acts very strange. He looks at his cellular phone every minute and his hands, they are tightly closed, as if he wants to punch someone in the face. She knew there was a problem from the moment they got out of the mansion.


"Hey, is there anything you want to tell me?" Nix asked her best friend but no answer was heard. "Onmaen!" she shouted. "Yeah, what?" he is definitely irritated. "I said, is there anything you want to tell me?"

"Nothing, nothing." it's obvious that he's hiding something, though. "Oh really? That's not you Onmaen. You always talk to me about things, very talkative, i could say. I know if you have any problems because we've been friends for a long time. So now, please tell me, what's the problem?" she is very worried for her friend.

He looks at her eyes and says, "I'm sorry. It's just that I don't know if I should tell you this." Nix wanted to know something. "We've been friends for what? A lifetime? C'mon, don't you trust me anymore?" tears started to form on her brown eyes. He wiped her tears away and replied. "Of course not. I'll tell you what happened so please stop crying now. I saw your brother, Nathan, a while ago while waiting for you, kissing Lexi."

"What? But I didn't know that he had a girlfriend. He tells me everything. Oh well, I'll ask him later. Please don't be mad at him. I know that you have a big crush on Lexi." she showed her 'puppy dog eyes'. "Okay, okay. Besides, I couldn't blame him." And at last, No name smiled again. Upon this, they reached the hospital. The two went up to room 327 where Zilch and Trent are staying.

Joy can be easily seen in the eyes of the two friends who undeniably miss each other. "At last, you came." Zilch said. "I'm sorry. Something happened--" Nix tried to explain. "No worries. Onmaen told me some details on what had happened. Tell me the whole story now, okay?" she is definitely a good friend to her. She seemed like her sister because of that. When Nix is ready to speak, someone knocked at the door.

"Hi. I'm Dr. Puy. Dr. Dean is not here today so he sent me a message that you two can go home now. Be safe." the doctor said with a weird voice. "He sure freaked me out." Trent said as the doctor closed the door. "You!" Nix said. "I told you to take care of my best friend, right? What happened to that?" It's obvious that she's just kidding, though. "Uhm. Well, sorry." All laughed at that. The three knew that Nix was just joking upon saying those words. "Trent, I'll go get some clothes for you so that you can go home now and Zilch, do you mind if I borrow your key to get some of yours, too?" Onmaen said.

"Here's the key. Thanks No name." she beamed a smile. "Zilch, I'll leave you here with Trent for a while, okay? I didn't have my breakfast and I'm really starving." Nix pleaded. "Okay, okay. Bon apetit!" Nix hurried to the canteen and bought foods for her and the other three. She is walking back to the room when someone just bumped her. The soda that she is drinking made her shirt wet. "Miss, are you alright? I'm so sorry, i didn't see you." Nix got the bag and threw the can on the nearby trash can. The boy offered his hanky to her but she refused. So he decided to offer her a hand, instead. She was surprised to see three things very common on the boy's hand and his hand. The tattoo, the watch and the ring. She started to cry. The boy wiped her tears away and cupped her cheeks so that he can see who she was. "What's the--"

'No. It...it can't be. Why now? Shit!' they both thought. "Not now, Yxir. Not--" and she collapsed. He didn't know what to do. Will he help her? or leave her alone? He onced left her but she helped him. But there is something inside him forcing him to leave her alone. Yxir decided to help Nix and as he held her up, two men rushed towards them.

The one to Nix.

The other to, obviously, punch Yxir.

Chapter XII: Lost and Broken

He now stands before the Schneere mansion. Yesterday was tiring. He was exhausted. He collapsed on the bed without saying a word what so ever.

"Hello? May I come in now please? This is No Name, Nix's friend." his voice still with worry.

"Sure." the guard's voice was heard and the gates of the mansion opens slowly.

He swiftly passes the verdant facade of the mansion and knocks at the main door. The butler opens the doors and points him to the door of the music room. Music of Nix's cello can be heard as he approaches it, each note filled with melancholy.

He sighs slowly and knocks at the door. Thoughts filled his mind. He was nervous.

The music stopped and light footsteps could be heard. The doorknob twisted and the door slowly creaked. The door opened and stood Nix.

"Nix!" Onmaen said with surprise. "No Name!" Nix replied. "What happened to you? Zilch and I have been worrying about you!" he silently laughed at himself. He was starting to sound like his mother.

"Well, I've been through a lot lately. But enough about me. I heard that you rushed Zilch and Trent to the hospital!" worry present in her voice. "What happened to them?"

"Well, I'm not sure myself. I just saw them sitting in the park, in the middle of rainstorm." No Name rolled his eyes. Nix sighed. "I hope that they'll be okay." "Want to check on them? I'm sure Zilch would like to see you." Onmaen reassured.

"Sure! Why not! I'll just get changed. Wait a minute, alright?" Nix asked. "Sure."

Nix proceeded to the bathroom and No Name peered at the window. It was a nice day, today. The bright sunlight sparkled along the windowsill. He viewed the garden of the mansion.

At this moment, his heart shattered to a million pieces.

Lexi was kissing Nathan.

"You ready to leave?" Nix asked. This made No Name jump.

"Yeah, yeah. Let's go." sadness filled his eyes. He stared down the floor.

He wanted to get away.

Chapter XI: Doubts and Despair

Onmaen wondered why people called this the waiting room. He thought that maybe, this is the place where loved ones await the fate of the people in danger. The stark white walls of the hospital made him want to puke - he wasn't fond of hospitals. Just then, his mobile phone vibrated in his coat pocket. "Hello?" he mumbled as he flipped his phone open.
"Is this Onmaen?" a deep, manly voice said on the other line.
"Yes sir," he answered, this time, his voice a bit louder.
"This is Nathan, Nix's brother. I'm allowing you guys to come here,"
"I'm afraid we can't, sir. My friend and cousin are in the hospital. I think Nix should come here,"
"She will pass by tomorrow. She's still a bit... Hurt, right now," Nathan said with a hint of hesitation and anger in his voice.
"We will be counting on that," Onmaen said and snapped the phone shut.

"Mister, are you of any relation to the two?" a nurse asked him.
"I'm cousins with the guy and friends with the girl,"
"Oh. They're both on stable conditions but are resting. Come back again tomorrow, if you want. It's awfully late, you should be going home," she said with a sweet smile.
"Thank you. Good night," he said and walked down the hallway, his feet making padded sounds in the quiet building.

Onmaen decided to pass by Nix's house, just to see how she's doing.
"You're not allowed to see her yet," one of the guards retorted upon seeing Onmaen.
"Her brother, Nathan, called me today,"
"He said it's okay for friends to see Ms. Nix tomorrow," he said, emphasizing on the last word.
"Fine, fine," Onmaen said and raised his arms in defeat.

"Onmaen!" someone called him from afar.
Onmaen turned his back and saw Lexi speeding, running towards him. "Hey," she panted. "I heard about Zilch. How's she?"
"Well, she's okay now. That girl... Ah, I don't know what's going on in her twisted mind," Onmaen sighed.
"Wow, you must really care for your friends. I also saw you a while ago over at Nix's,"
"What are you, my stalker?" Onmaen poked Lexi's arm.
"No, silly! It just so happens I like to follow you and take things you dipsose of out the bin. Hell, I even have an altar of you in a secret room over at my house," she said sarcastically.
"Wow, someone sure had an overdose of pills," he snorted. "So what brings you here?"
"I went to see an old friend," she said uneasily.
"Friend or flame?"
"Er, why?"
"Who?
Lexi took a deep breath.
"Nathan Schneere," she said with a sigh. "We used to be... Well, we're just friends."

"Just friends..." Onmaen repeated in a whisper. That phrase reiterated in his mind the whole night. After walking Lexi home, after dinner, before sleeping. It was an uneasy night for him, as he tossed and turned, unable to get the sleep he needed.

Chapter X: Your Guardian Angel

Days passed and still, there is no news from Nix. Guards encircle the whole manor. All lights are always turned on she doesn’t want that and her dog is outside the house. “What is happening Nix? Why don’t you call me or Zilch?" Onmaen thought as he silently watched the raindrops fall making him remember her.

She woke up as if it was the first day she saw the world. The lights were so bright above her that she can’t almost see. And there was someone sitting beside her.

“Good morning sis. At last, after 3 long days, you have awaken from your deep slumber. “The boy spoke. “ Nathan! Is that you? Why are you here and why is?" Nix exclaimed. “Yes, it’s me. I wanted to surprise you because I know that you here been alone for some time. But, instead, I was the one who was surprised. I rang the doorbell but there was no answer. Good thing, I had my key. The house was very quiet when I entered so I thought that maybe you are still on bed but there was no you lying in this bed so I went to the music room. And yes, you were there with blood on your clothes and your cello." She was interrupted by her brother, Nathan.

“Oh. Is that so?” Nix was very embarrassed of herself. “Yes. I didn’t send you to the hospital but I called on the family doctor to come over. Much blood was lost but miraculously it didn’t need any replacement. Now, please tell me who did this to you.” He sounded really worried. “No one, “ she answered plainly. “ Maybe its your friends, that is why you won’t tell me, eh?” Nathan’s voice become louder. “NO! No one did this to me! Especially my friends! They would do nothing harm me. “ Nix defended her friends. “Then, who did this to you!?”

“No one, I did this to myself, Nathan, honest.”

“What the!?Then, tell me the reason why.”

“I understand that you are worried but I can’t tell you.”

“Please, Nix, I would be a way useless brother if you won’t tell.” Nathan held the hands of his sister. “Okay. It…It’s…Yxir…Yxir Dance,well,ofcourse you don’t--"

“Yxir? Yxir who?”

“Yxir Dance. Don’t tell me.” Nix gasped. “That bastard! He is a member of the club that I am involved at school. He’ll pay.”

“No, Nathan, Please don’t.”

“Not this time, Nix. Not this time. Don’t dare go anywhere right now. I’ll call your friends to come over. But please don’t go anywhere.”

Your family is the one that you could count on always they are the ones who will never leave you. The ones who will do everything just to protect you.

Chapter IX: Numb

The first droplets of rain was falling. He opened his black umbrella, and covered himself. "I thought that Lexi could come, but I guess she was a little busy." he sighed to himself. "Damn."
He walked through the sidewalks, going to the nearest way home, the park. The park had its own twists and turns, having many exits itself. The boy decided to go and kill some time since he was locked out of the house once more. He sighs one more time. He stares into the riverbank.

"I wonder how Nix is doing? First, she won't answer her phone at all. Now, the guards won't even let me in! What the hell is wrong!?" he shouts. He stares blankly into the wide space of the park.

"I guess it won't change anything." he finally concludes, leaving the vicinity of the park. He is now treading to one of the gang's favorite places: the riverbank. He now remebers how the three first met. How they were now all so happy playing along in its muddy grounds. "We're all grown up, facing so much problems. Sometimes, I just want to be a kid again."

He now realizes a pair of people sitting with each other, drenched in the rain. He realizes that their figures were somehat familiar until it hits him. He hurriedly runs to them.

"Are both of you insane!?" No Name exclaimed. He hurriedly threw an umbrella to Trent which he didn't open. He didn't even reach out to get it.

Zilch was definitely trembling and shivering, which made Onmaen nervous. Worst of all, both of them aren't reacting, which made him infer that both are already numb to move.

"You better have a good explanation for this." he said as he raised the pair up and with difficulty try to support both of them to reach the nearest hospital. Fortunately, they can still walk.

"I thought you promised me you'll take care of her, dammit!"

Chapter VIII: Raindrops

Zilch tried calling Nix after a couple of days but to no avail. She knew Nix wanted some time alone to think because Zilch sensed some tension between Nix and Yxir.

Zilch walked down a cobblestone path, just near the riverbank. She and Xavier spent a lot of time there, but they're just friends now. She sat down Indian style on the grassy area and looked up the sky. She sighed.

"Don't sigh at the sky," Trent said, breathing heavily and looking at his feet.
"Don't sigh at the ground," Zilch said, tapping the space beside her, motioning for him to sit down.

"So what's the problem?"
"Well, Nix and Yxir are in a daze again. I don't know what to do. Onmaen seems happy with Lexi... And I'm left all alone,"
"You're not alone. We're two of a kind,"
Zilch smirked at this and continued to stare at the sky. It was a hazy mixture of grays and blues, like it came out straight from an artist's palette.

"Would you mind if I hold your hand?" Trent said, looking at her intently.
"Um, it's okay," Zilch said nervously, a hint of red staining her white cheeks.
His much bigger hands gently held hers, fingers entwined. He smiled at this.

Thunder echoed from somewhere near. A storm is most likely to approach their area.
"The spaces between my fingers are meant for yours,"
"What?"

She never got to hear the answer to her question as his lips collided with hers. A seemingly sweet yet addicting intoxication spread out their bodies. Love, they thought at the same time as the first droplets of rain crashed silently on them.

Chapter VII: Blinded...

“And why are you both here?” Onmaen said giving emphasis on the word both. “Well, we heard the wonderful melody by?” Nix answered.

“Lexi, you’re Nix, aren’t you? Thanks for the compliment.” Lexi said getting a little pink on her cheeks. “Nice meeting you. Yxir, Lexi. Lexi, Yxir.” Nix continued.

“You play the cello. Am I right?” Onmaen asked wanting to start a conversation. “Yeah, but I’m not really good at it. I’m better in playing the piano.” Nix answered proudly. “Hey, can you teach me on how to play the piano?” Lexi is so kind. She’s very gentle and sweet. “Maybe it’s better if Yxir would teach you. He’s my maestro.”

“I would be glad to teach you.” Yxir said. “Thanks.” Lexi said plainly. “Uhm, Nix, may we go now? I have something to tell you.” The boy is very serious when he told Nix so she didn’t bother to ask more questions. “Okay. Onmaen, Lexi, we got to go now. Have fun!” Nix said her goodbye to the lovebirds.

Then they departed. Silence was echoing on their way to The Schneere Manor. Yxir wanted for them to stay there because he’s apartment was a mess.

“So, what do you want to tell me?” Nix broke the silence. “Uhm, after having been away from you for a very long time, it was very hard of me to be happy. But now that I’m with you, again, I’m the happiest man in the world.” Yxir started. “I just want to ask you something.”

“What is it?” Nix was surprised by what her ex-boyfriend said. But she was more surprised by the very serious face that Yxir showed her for the very first time.

“Can we be, you know, us, again?” Yxir got a small red box from the pocket of his vest. “Will you be my girlfriend, again?” He said while opening the box containing a ring. A ring that moved Nix’s eyes to produce tears. She cried because of joy. “No, please, don’t cry.” Yxir gets worried. “I’m just happy, Yxir. Don’t worry so much.” Nix managed to show a smile between the tears that flowed on her cheeks. “Okay. So, will you?”

“I don’t know, Yxir. I’m sorry. It has been to long and I admit I still have feelings for you. But that’s not easy. Give me time to think about it.”

“Okay. Please give me a chance to prove my love for you, Nix. Goodnight for now. Sweet dreams.” Yxir said wiping the tears on Nix’s face and leaving a passionate kiss on it.

“Goodnight. Take care.” Nix replied with ‘the smile’.

It has been too long since these lovebirds broke up. Almost 3 years now. But love really battles with time. Before Nix went to bed, she thought of giving Yxir one more chance hoping that he was the one.

“A very beautiful day this is.” Nix smiled after closing the main door of her manor. She wants to go to Yxir’s apartment to surprise him.

Nix stopped by a small store on her way. She bought pasta for Yxir and her to share. When she reached Yxir’s apartment, Nix was stunned by what she saw. The door was slightly opened. Yxir never leaves his door open. Oh well, it has been too long. The elapsed time was sufficient for someone to change. So, she pushed the door lightly and was more astonished by the scene she witnessed.

“What the—.” Nix said in awe causing her to drop the bag she was holding. Yxir was kissing with a girl, a beautiful girl, she admits. He was topless and his arms were wrapped around the girls curved body.

“Nix, I can explain.” Yxir said. “No, you don’t have to explain anything.” Nix said in between tears. “It’s not what you think it is.” Yxir was getting worried.

“No, I’ve seen it already. So, who’s the new girl? May I see?” She replied moving a bit to the right of the bastard to see the face of the girl. “Tera? Is that you?”

“Yes Nix. Oh my, I’m sorry. I didn’t know.” The girl sobs as she leaves the apartment.

“YOU’RE SUCH A BASTARD!!!” Nix blurted out. “I know.” Yxir answered plainly.
“Do you want to play with my feelings again!? I thought you already changed Yxir but I was so stupid to think of that.” She continued not allowing Yxir to speak. “Maybe I was blinded so much by love. I HATE YOU!!! You kissed that bitch! The bitch that ruined my life!”

“Do not call her a bitch!” Yxir can’t didn’t have a control on his words.

“And now you’re shouting at me. Don’t ever show your face to me again, you bastard!” Nix ended leaving a red mark on Yxir’s face.

“Nix. I’m sorry.” Yxir responded dropping a tear.

Nix went back to her Manor and played her favorite melody on her cello. Tears rolled down her face. She was crying terribly. Nix saw a knife on the Music Room. She wanted to kill herself for being so stupid. The only thing she managed to do was to slice her skin like a fruit. Nix slept in the same room with cuts on her arms and legs.

Chapter VI: Strings of Life, Sword of Pain

"So... Umm... Where do you wanna go?"

Her voice was mellow. Lexi was wearing a black dress, not really formal. Her eyes were of a shade of gray at first look, but if you inspect them more carefully, they have a green hue to it.

"Anywhere you want to." I replied. "Okay then... Let's go to the playground. I love to go there." she replied with a cheery voice. "Sure. Why not?"

After a long walk, we finally reached our destination: the playground. The playground is a wide, grassy field. It has two swing sets, two see-saws, and the like. It is a paradise for children, I guess. Too bad we're not children anymore. "Onmaen, right?" she asked innocently. "Hmm... Hey, I wanna show you something."

I didn't notice that she was carrying something. It somewhat looked like a bag, but after a closer look, I realized it wasn't just a bag. It was a violin case.

"You play the violin?" I asked. "Sure do." she replied with a smile. "Wow... What a coincidence. I play too." I replied. This time, her smile widened, and I couldn't help but smile as well.

"Here. Listen to this."

She took out the violin, and started playing it. Each note almost perfect as she strums it. The song was a blur to me, it sounded familiar. Then I realized it sounded somewhat like a sad, depressing and slow song. It sounded like "My Immortal" by Evanescence. Her music was really memorable. It felt like every note had a story behind it. She was really good.

"Wow. That's amazing!" I shouted as I clapped my hands.

"Yeah. That was awesome."

I turn around to find that Yxir and Nix were at our back.

Chapter V: Regrets and Romance

Zilch pushed open the glass doors of Mayhew Cafe, a gust of cold wind greeting her. The large man with an apron was easy to locate and she asked him where Trent was. "He's not here, miss," he answered politely. "You mean he's absent from work?" Zilch asked. "No," the man chuckled lightly. "He doesn't work here, he owns the place."

Still a bit shocked from what the apron man told her, Zilch left the cafe with a tall mocha latte. She passed by the old playground and saw Nix hanging out with Yxir. There was something in her smile that was so... genuine, like only Nix could have that in her smile. This was not common with Nix, either she was really happy or she was trying to be but Zilch could tell this one's true. She'd never seen one of her best friends happier than before. She decided not to ruin the moment and called up Onmaen to meet her at the ice cream stand near the river.

"Hey," Onmaen huffed as he ran from the bridge towards the stand. She handed him a cone of Cookies and Cream, his favorite. "So here's the deal, Onmaen. I called up a friend of mine and she's gonna hang out with you. You better act nicely if you want her to like you," Zilch said, handing him another cone which was Strawberry flavored. "What?" Onmaen asked, he was totally oblivious of this, um... date.

"Hi Lexi! This is Onmaen, Onmaen, this is Lexi," Zilch said upon the arrival of a beautiful lady about their age with wavy, dark hair and mysterious gray eyes. "Oh, this is for you," Onmaen handed Lexi the Strawberry ice cream. "Thanks," she said as she took it.

"Look at the time, I have to go to um... The Art Conference," Zilch said. "Zilch, it's a Saturday, there's no Art Conference today," Onmaen said through gritted teeth. "No, they made an exception so I could leave you two lovebirds," Zilch said as she sped off. "Bye!" she waved back.

Zilch giggled to herself as she thought about her two friends waltzing through the music of love. Okay, scratch that, that was really cheesy. Anyway, she was just happy at the thought of her two friends enjoying the day. The sun was about to set, and it cast an orange glow on the people that passed by the park. Zilch took a deep breath and was mesmerized by the setting sun.

Chapter IV: Hidden Secrets of the Heart

"So, this is where I’ll leave you, alright?" Trent uttered. "Okay, uhm, thanks for walking me home by the way. Good night." Zilch answered. She was about to leave when Trent grabbed her arm and *smack*. He kissed her, on the check. “Good night.”

Zilch was left confused. "Why the hell did he do that? But hey, his lips were so cold, just like his." She thought upon sighing. They were definitely not drunk though they drank more than a dozen bottles.

The sun shined again on the Schneere Manor. "Rise and shine sleepyhead." Zilch decided to visit Nix and she also called Onmaen to go. "Who the—" Nix was stopped by no other than herself as she saw who was there. "Zilch! Oh my God! I missed you." she can’t help herself from embracing her best friend. It’s been a week since she saw Zilch. She knew where Nix always places her key that is why she managed to enter Nix’s manor. "I missed you too. Now, get ready and I’ll show you something I discovered two days ago." Zilch was like a sister to Nix. "Oh okay. Wait, what about Onmaen?"

"I already asked him to go. He’ll be arriving minutes from now."

"C’mon. Expect him to be late. As always." Nix answered in a teasing tone.

After almost an hour of preparing, Nix finally finished doing what she has to do. She and Zilch both waited for Onmaen to arrive. And finally the doorbell rang.

"I’ll get it!" Nix leaped from her seat.

"Hi On—oh, it’s you. Why are you here? And how did you know I live here?" The smile on her face has just been replaced by a miserable one.

“I just wanted to talk to you. And I got your address from…”

"Zilch." Nix already knew that her best friend told Yxir since she is the only one who knows where she lives and also the only one who knows him. "This is not actually a good time for us to talk."

"Nix, that is an awful way to treat your guest." They both eyed each other. "Yxir, you can come with us. Besides, there is nothing wrong with that, right Nix?"

"Yeah, right." Nix was obviously forced to agree. "Are you sure?" Yxir wanted to confirm. "I already said yes! Do you want me to change my mind!?"

Nix is really moody. She will be glad at this moment and later she would explode with anger. Some people who do not know her very well thinks she is, perhaps, insane. Then again, another figure stood before the main door of the Manor.

"Hey there Nix! How are you? And who’s he?"

"Hi, I’m Yxir."

"I didn’t ask you. I asked Nix. Are you her?" Onmaen was really, kind of, appalling right now. Hangover is the answer.

"I’m fine. How ‘bout you? Do come in Onmaen. Feel at home."

"Yeah, sure. I really can’t believe how you manage to live in this humongous house alone." Onmaen is always mesmerized by this fact. "Hey, easy with your words, bro. Look, I live with my dog, my dolls, myself and I got you guys."

“Don’t be such a drama queen Nix, not now.”

"So, I’m just like a shadow right here now, eh?" Zilch was really joking. "You too Zilch. Don’t be a drama queen, alright? Anyway, what happened last night with you and Trent."

"Nothing at all." She’s hiding a smile and two pinkish cheeks.

"Who’s Trent? You don’t keep me updated now Zilch."

"A guy I met last night. He’s Onmaen’s cousin. He’s working at the Mayhew Café."

"The Mayhew Café? You've got to treat me there Onmaen."

"Sure."

The conversation of the friends was interrupted by a noticeably fake cough by no other than…Yxir.

"What!?" Nix exploded with anger.

"I think I’ll just go." Yxir answered, embarrassed, disappointed, and miserable.

"That’s just what I want you to do the second I saw you." Nix said rudely.

As the boy left, it was clear on Nix’s face that she’s not happy with what she has done. It seemed like her heart was torn into pieces all because of her behavior. In fact, she did regret it.

"Hey! Yxir! Wait up. I was hoping if you could stay. You know, if you still want to."

"Are you sure this time?"

"Definitely. Oh and sorry for being so rude." 'the smile' is once again projected in Nix's face. "Maybe a little sacrifice would do. Just this time Nix, one last time." She thought upon holding his hand as they both went back in the Manor. They, in fact, enjoyed the day together.


It’s a mystery how love can battle pure hatred and angst in one’s heart. How love can catch up the speed of time. How a sacrifice is worth it when you love. This is a mystery neither an inventor nor a genius could answer.

Chapter III: Moonlit Nights and Drunken Decisions

"Hey, I'll get us some more drinks... I'm too sober..." Trent laughed as he rose up from the chair he was in. No Name and Zilch were left in the table, eating some of the food that were given by the man with the apron; piece by piece.

"Hey, No Name. Have you heard about Yxir and Nix?" Zilch said this as she softly punched No Name's shoulder. "Hey, I have a name, you know... And it's Onmaen. You keep jumbling the letters up..." He said as he rubbed his shoulder. "Sorry... So, have you heard?"

"No, not yet... What about it? Who's this Yxir guy?"

"Hey, here! I got us a couple of bottles... Hope that's enough..." Trent stuck his tongue out jokingly. "Do you want us to get drunk, Trent?" No Name shot back a reply. "No, I only want HER to get drunk, not you." He said as he gave a smirk. "Hey, hey, hey! She's gotta be back at the complex before midnight!!!" No Name stammered as he pushed back the bottles away. "Oh come on... I promise to take her back home..."

"Well, it's her decision. Hey Zilch, do you trust Trent?"

"Umm... I guess so..."

"Okay, Trent. You can take her home later... Just promise me no seduction, no flirting, no abuse and DEFINITELY no raping."

"Okay..." as he gave a quick wink to Zilch; and as to this action, she blushed.

"Hey, tell me about Yxir and Nix tomorrow. But right now, I declare that we get ourselves drunk!" No Name said as he raised his bottle.

"Cheers to life and friends!" Zilch said as she raised hers.

"I agree to that!" Trent raised his as the three bottles clashed to each other.

"To alcohol! The source and solution of all our problems!"

Chapter II : I Can't Expect You To Spend Forever With Me

"Did I just gave him her address?" Zilch muttered under her breath, still holding her phone. Her palms were getting sweatier by the minute, a result of her nervousness. "Oh whatever. Fuck it," she said and grabbed her jacket. "I'm going out, Mike," she yelled and went out of the house. Zilch lived in an apartment complex owned by Mike.

She went down the steel steps which creaked under her and opened the iron gate. "Be back before midnight or you'll have to sleep out," the speaker buzzed, it was Mike. Zilch closed the gate and trotted down the stone steps and headed on to a friend's house.

She rang the doorbell and was greeted by a tired looking woman, but nevertheless, she was still beautiful. "Looking for No Name?" she asked as she took a drag on her cigarette. "Yes, ma'am," Zilch answered and looked down at her sneakers. Someone ran down the stairs and opened the door a bit more. It was No Name and he said, "Mom, I'm going out. Later." and stepped out, closing the door behind him. "Why's she like that?" Zilch asked as she and No Name walked towards the city proper. "She and dad are fighting again, but I guess it'll be over by tomorrow," he replied. "I hope so," she said as they reached a corner.

"So what're we going to do again?" Zilch asked raising her voice so she could be heard in spite of the simultaneous honking of horns and screeching of tires. "We're meeting my cousin, Trent Cohen," No Name said as he stopped and motioned for Zilch to enter an alley. Zilch went in first and met a dead end, or so it seems. No Name tapped the 3rd brick from the left and a door, which Zilch swore was never there, opened. A large man in his thirties, wore a red "Kiss the Cook" apron led them inside. They were in the kitchen of some cafe and they were now entering the dining area. The man in the apron left them and No Name walked towards a boy clad in black, who was faced away from them.

"Trent!" No Name said as he embraced his cousin. "Hey," he said and turned to Zilch. "Um, hi," Zilch said with a small wave. "Oh Zilch, this is my cousin Trent. Trent, this is my friend Zilch," No Name said. Zilch and No Name sat opposite to Trent. "Tell me, why did we have to enter at the back and why are we alone here?" Zilch asked as they were given food by the apron man. "It's because Trent likes it like this. This is Mayhew Cafe, and surprise, it has a second floor, hidden when viewed from the first floor," No Name explained. "THE Mayhew Cafe? This is like the most expensive among all the other cafe's!" Zilch said in awe. Trent let out a small laugh and Zilch couldn't help but smile as their eyes met and she noticed it had a little green in them, just like him...

Sometimes I cry so hard from pleading, so sick and tired of all the needless beating. But baby when they knock you down and out, it's where you oughta stay. And after all the blood that you still owe, another dollar's just another blow. So fix your eyes and get up, better get up while you can. When you go, would you even turn to say, "I don't love you, like I did, yesterday."

Chapter I: Some Things Never Change

Another day, another challenge. I keep on thinking why I have dreams, or more likely, nightmares about him. Seems like these dreams warn me, warn me that I should be careful. About what? Ugh! I...


"Hey! Watch where you're going, miss!" Nix bumped on some whom she knew. But she can't remember who he is.

"Sorry." She said plainly. When she was about to go on to where she is going, the boy suddenly grabbed Nix's arm.

"Well, uhm, sorry for yelling at you a while ago. I'm just in a hurry. And by the way, do I know you?" The boy beamed an undeniably gorgeous smile at Nix.

"That's alright. I don't remember meeting you at all." She lied, obviously "Better go on to where your going. I'm Nix, anyway."

"Okay. And I'm Y-...What's your name again!?" The boy was shocked by what he heared.

"Nix, Nix Lackstoff. And you?" She was surprised by the boy's reaction. But she just smiled at him along with her answer.

"Y...Yx...Yxir, Yxir Dnace. I knew it! You are..." He wasn't finished yet with his answer when Nix just kissed him and ran away, crying. "As always. Some things are just meant to be permanent in someone."


No, it can't be. Why? Does that what my dreams want to tell me. He's more handsome and more...ugh! And I...I just kissed him! Oh no, Nix, stop thinking of him! Stop! Oh why does he always show up at these times? Some things are just meant to be permanent in someone.


Every single moment after that day, Yxir can't get Nix out of his mind. He wants to be with her, again. *She kissed me. Her kiss is just what my lips are looking for a long time. Her arms around my neck with her face almost touching mine. Yes, I was hurt but I must admit, I still love her.* He was scrolling his phone book trying to find her number.


"This is hopeless!" Before closing it, a certain name caught his attention. "Zilch. Hmm, yes! She's her bestfriend! I hope this number still works." Dial. Wait. Still waiting. "Hello?"

"Hello? Who's this?" Zilch was definitely clueless who was calling her and how this boy got her number. "Zilch? Is this you? I'm Yxir. Do you still remember me?" There was an unexplainable joy in his heart.

"Oh. What do you want?" Zilch was irritated.

"Can you do me a little favor? I want to see Nix again. What's her new address?" Yxir didn't notice that he was going too fast. He just can't control himself.

She told him thinking that this would help Nix and said goodbye. "I hope I made the right decision."


The tears, the sorrows, the laughters and the moments we've shared never slips my mind. They are all here, here in my heart. Wherever the wind brings me or this voyage leads, remember, I'm just here for you.