Please Take It
Part I

Part II Part III

I cant believe it! TK yelped happily, as he stretched his arms over his shoulders. Only one more school day before summer break!

Youre hiding your excitement well, Kari giggled at her long time friend. Then again, the thought of eight weeks without having to worry about school is something to look forward to.

And to think Im finally going to get a chance to spend the summer with my friends. TK really did mean all of his friends, but he meant Kari most of all. Every moment he could spend with her was so precious to him, and the more time he spent with her the more he wanted. He just couldnt get enough. She looked so beautiful standing there walking along side of him. The sunlight shining off her face at just the right angel, adding an extra glow to her already gorgeous set of brown eyes. He had to pay razor close attention to himself to make sure he didnt start drooling. God, how he wanted to tell her that. Not the drooling part, but how he fully felt about her in his heart. Its not necessarily the best thing in the world when you realize youre in love with your best friend, but here he was dealing with the ultimate of emotional dilemmas. It wasnt like he never tried to tell her before. He had hinted at it numerous times. Hell, hed even resorted to flat out hitting on her on several occasions, but she seemed to blow him off completely or simply ignore him every time. He knew she was too smart for it to go over her head just like that. Most of the time, shed give him this funny look then blush and turn her head away. It was almost like she was saying to him thanks, but no thanks Takeru. He guessed that her ignoring him might be her gentle way of telling him shes not interested. When he looked at her he was seeing an angel, but when she looked at him she saw her best friend. Her best friend, and thats probably all hed ever be to her. That didnt mean he was going to give up though. Hed continue to give subtle hints, but hed never push her. He didnt want to strain their friendship in anyway. Its going to be a blast! What do you think?

I guess... If you can stand putting up with me all summer! Kari herself couldnt think of anything shed rather do this summer than spend it with TK. She wasnt always sure why, but she always felt so good anytime she was near him. How she loved to look up into his soothing ocean-blue eyes. The only thing she wanted to do sometimes was stare into them for hours on in, and let herself sink to the bottom. She tried her best to catch herself whenever she felt she had been staring at him too long, which happened rather often, so he wouldnt catch her in the act. God, she wished she had the nerve to tell him what she was thinking right then. Its not necessarily the best thing in the world when you realize youre in love with your best friend, but here she was dealing with the ultimate of emotional dilemmas. It had been that way as long as she could remember. It wasnt like she never tried to tell him before. She tried to hint at it in her own subtle ways, and she flirted with him constantly. It wasnt always to make Davis jealous, but that was a nice added bonus. At least she thought she was flirting. She was definitely trying to. Their was this seductive look she developed that she tried to give him from time to time, but she could never manage giving it with a straight face... literally. Shed do fine up until the time TK would look down at her with his own thought erasing smile, and shed just melt underneath its warmth. Shed completely lose her nerve, and all she could do was blush and turn her head away in defeat. There were times she could almost swear TK was hitting on her, but hed never follow up. At least it sounded like it to her..., hey a girl could hope couldnt she? She guessed it was merely a kind word from her friend. Her best friend..., and it was simple as that.

Anytime I can spend with you is well worth it. TK looked down at her and smiled waiting for a response that didnt come right away. She looked back at him for a brief second, blushed, and then turned her head away. That damn look again. TK grimaced, and growled softly in frustration.

Youre being silly. Kari mentally kicked herself for saying that. She tried to look him in the face, but like always she caved. Normally she never had a problem at least looking him in the eye, but when he looked at her that way... It almost sounded to her like he was trying to flirt with her again. She waited for him to follow through, but like always nothing came. When his response came, it was no where near what she was hoping for.

Yeah... Just being silly. TK suddenly stopped in the middle of the road much to Karis surprise.

Whats the matter? Kari asked, still partially lost in her own little world.

Youre home.

Kari looked up, and sure enough they were standing in front of her apartment. She blushed, and giggled half-heartedly. Oh yeah... He, he. I guess Ill see you later. Lets both promise to make this the best summer weve ever had.

You know I will girl! TK said, perking up. Ill make sure of that! TKs smiled slowly faded, as he watched Kari dissapear into her building. Theres only one thing I can think of to make this summer perfect, but it doesnt look like that will ever happen... But at least Ill be with you.

********

Davis grumbled to himself, as he mashed through the crowded Odaiba streets. He couldnt believe Kari wasnt home! Another afternoon wasted. He had called twice since school let out, and they said she wasnt in. With nothing better to do, he tracked all the way over to her apartment just to discover she still wasnt at home. He had a sinking suspicion he knew where she was though. If fact, he was positive, and he didnt like it one little bit. He knew if he found him, hed probably find Kari as well. He searched every street corner, alley, and back road hoping to find some trace of one of them. The grinding of his teeth nearly produced sparks, as he visualized them being together. God he hated to even picture that. What the hell did he have that Davis didnt anyway? Whatever it was, Kari obviously knew, and she wasnt telling him. They could pretend nothing was going on all they wanted, but contrary to popular belief Davis wasnt that stupid. He noticed how they were together all the time, and he meant all the time! He noticed the way Kari would look at him, and when he compared it to the way she looked at him he felt he might as well have been some kind of fungus spread across a big rock. He couldnt count how many times theyd be talking, hed walk into the room, and Kari would forget he was even there. God he hated it. Yet, they still had the nerve to claim they were merely friends every time the question came up. It felt like they were trying to rub it in his face, or playing some big hateful practical joke on him. They must really think Im stupid, was what he was thinking half the time. Hed grown so spiteful over the whole situation, he could almost swear all that laughing and giggling they did while they were together was directed towards him. Hey, look at that idiot Davis. He really doesnt have a clue what were doing behind his back, he could almost hear them say in his mind.. Davis for one wasnt laughing one bit. Hed love nothing more than to take that stupid hat of his, pull it down his head, and lead him off a cliff. Where did he get off going after his girl anyway? He was determined not to give up on Kari. Davis knew he was better than him, and hed find a way to make Kari his. There was no way he was going to let that little bastard beat him. No way. As he continued to march through the seemingly endless city streets, the object of his disgust finally came into his view.

HEY TD! HOLD UP A SECOND! Davis called out to the boy who had his back turned to him.

TK cringed. He only knew of one person in the whole of Japan who couldnt string a simple T and a K together. That has to be Davis. Not lessening his pace at all, he waited until Davis eventually bounded up next to him. You want something Davis?

Wheres Kari? he asked, after noticing she was no where in sight. I thought shed be with you?

She was before I walked her home about ten minutes ago, he answered with a little added pop. He was offended by the rather snippy way Davis asked those questions. He sounded and looked particularly hostile towards him today, even for Davis. What makes you assume shed be with me anyway?

What are you talking about?! Cause shes always with you! To tell you the truth I really dont like the way youve been trying to put the moves on my girl!

Im not putting the moves on anyone, and shes not your girl! TK fired back. How is spending time with my friend qualify as putting the moves on her anyway?!

Dont start with that friend thing again! Davis barked. Ive seen the way you stare at her, hell you practically drool! Im not buying any of your crap Takashi! You guys do everything but hold hands!

TK blushed slightly, unnoticed to Davis since TK had his back turned to him, after learning Davis had caught him staring at Kari. He hoped to high hell nobody else noticed, in particular Kari. Its amazing how you can pronounce my last name correctly, when you cant remember the two simple letters in my first name!

I know your name TB!

Thats tuberculosis Davis! he mocked. Its TK. T...K!

Tubercuo-whatsis?

Forget it Davis. I really dont feel like arguing with you right now, TK sighed, and quickened his pace in an attempt to pull further away from Davis. Davis however, would not be denied.

Hold it right there! Were not finished! Davis yelled after him.

Yes we are!

No were not! Davis grabbed TK by the shoulder, but TK ignored him and kept walking. I know your just trying to pretend you dont like Kari to throw me off, but its not working anymore TC! Shes in love with me! Get that through your thick skull! Shes mine! MINE!

TKs last nerve snapped like a pretzel log. Absolutely seething with anger, he whirled around and gave Davis a death glare that couldve scared an adult lion out of his mane. Though that theory may never be tested, it sure caused Davis to take a step back or two. TK could take all of his insults, he could take Daviss stuck up attitude towards him, but the one he couldnt stand was Davis referring to Kari like she was his own little personal toy. NO YOU GET THIS THROUGH YOUR THICK SKULL DAVIS! IVE HAD IT UP TO HEAR WITH YOU! he shouted, as he extended his hand as far above his head as he could manage. ITS A GOOD THING YOU WERENT BUYING ANY OF MY CRAP, CAUSE YOURE SO FULL OF YOUR OWN YOUD HAVE TO MAKE ROOM TO FIT IT ALL IN! LET ME SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT! SHE MAY JUST BE IN LOVE WITH YOU, BUT YOU DO NOT OWN HER! YOU NEED TO STOP TALKING AND ACTING LIKE SHE DOES, OR IM GOING TO TAKE THOSE GOGGLES AND SHOVE THEM SO FAR DOWN YOUR THROAT YOULL BE WIPING YOUR BUTT WITH THE STRAP!

Davis was taken back. I never said I owned her... AND DONT THREATEN ME!

I DONT MAKE THREATS, AND YOU STARTED ALL THIS!

AND IM READY TO FINISH IT! Davis tightened up his fists LETS HAVE IT OUT! RIGHT HERE FOR KARI RIGHT NOW!

WHAT DID I JUST GET DONE SAYING DAVIS! TK grunted disgustedly. SHES NOT A PRIZE TO BE WON, AND I CARE ABOUT HER TOO MUCH TO REDUCE HER TO THAT LEVEL! IF SHE WANTS YOU THEN SO BE IT, BUT IM NOT GOING TO STOP BEING HER FRIEND BECAUSE YOUR A JEALOUS JACKASS! IF YOU DONT LIKE IT TOUGH! YOUR GOING TO HAVE TO LIVE WITH IT! HOWEVER, IF YOU WANT TO HAVE IT OUT RIGHT NOW JUST TO SETTLE THIS THING BETWEEN YOU AND ME, THEN ILL BE HAPPY TO OBLIGE SO I CAN FINALLY SHUT THAT BIG MOUTH OF YOURS!

SO, NOW YOU DO ADMIT YOU LIKE HER HUH?!

DAVIS WOULD YOU GET OFF OF IT ALREADY?! Noticing people were starting to stare at him, TK calmed himself down and lowered his voice. Okay, okay! I like Kari! Thats what you want to hear isnt it?! If their was even a tiny chance I thought she might feel the same way about me I wouldve played on it a long time ago! Its just not going to happen. Shes never done or said anything to make me think otherwise. Without another word, he resumed walking leaving the stunned Davis behind.

What is that supposed to mean?! No really what is that supposed to mean?! Is that good or bad?!

********

Kari sighed, as she melted into the coach practically fusing with it. She thought about what had happened earlier that afternoon, and cringed at the fool she had made of herself. He just seemed to have that kind of effect on her as of late. Every time shed get near him she always ended up doing or saying something completely stupid, or that made no sense what so ever. She feared TK might start thinking she was a flake or something to that nature. Of course she didnt know there wasnt anything she could do that could make her appear anything less than an angel in TKs eyes. Still, it didnt seem to matter what Kari tried, she just couldnt get TK out of her mind. Hed never been that far from her thoughts since shed known him, but lately it had become absolutely ridiculous! *Why the hell do I think about him all the time?* She smiled as she realized what she was thinking, and came up with a much better question. *What the hell am I complaining about?* As she did more times than not, she gave in willingly, and let him take over her thoughts. He was like a drug that her brain had developed a dependency on. She still searched for an answer to why. With little deliberation she decided it had to be his eyes. The most majestic color of blue shed ever seen, a shade she was convinced was his alone. Hed look at her with those things, and her body would go numb. He may have been as sweet as he could be, but she was convinced that somehow they had to be evil. Nothing that could completely posses a body and soul like that could possibly be good. Kari giggled thinking the world could use a little more of that type of evil. She switch gears, and imagined just what shed and TK would do this summer. She really looked forward to finally having TK around. Maybe she could even work up the nerve to ask him to do something a little more formal...

Karis daydreaming came to an abrupt end, as the front door slammed violently igniting a loud echo to ring throughout the apartment. She shot a death glare towards the door directed at her brother. Hed just walked in, and was sorting a stack of mail in his hands. Why dont you slam the door a little harder next time Tai! Some of the tiles are still attached to the ceiling!

Excuse me! Tai laughed. He didnt see his sister that irritated very often, and he thought she was rather cute when she was. Without saying another word to his sister, he started flipping through the stack of envelopes. Let see here bill, bill, bill.... Letter from Ed McMahon? You may owe me a million dollars?! Knowing a bad joke from his friend when he saw one, he promptly tossed the piece of junk mail in the trash.

I guessing that was from Matt? Kari asked.

Yeah. If that geek wants to play a joke youd figure hed have enough sense not to put his address on the front of the envelope. Kari giggled, as Tai continued to sort through the mail. He set aside a couple more bills, when he came across something that really appeared to catch his interest. Hey Kari, its here!

What is it?

Tai looked at his sister slyly. You remember that photography contest in that magazine you entered last month?

Kari leapt off the couch like shed just been kicked off, and charged her brother. It is really?! Thats right the magazine said the results would be in in a months time! Give it here please!

No way! Tai teased, as he pulled the letter out of Karis reach.

Please give it to me Tai! She begged. She stretched and prodded her arms in every fashion imaginable, and around every body part on Tais body, but he kept maneuvering it out of her grasp. Grow up already Taichi! Give it to me! Its mine!

No way! I wana see what it says! Ill let you know if you want to read or not.

Give it to me Tai! Kari lunged for the letter again, but Tai darted out of her way once again. I know I didnt have a chance to win, but I still want to see what they thought of my pictures!

In that case Ill just have to read it for you! Tai ripped open the letter, much to Karis dismay. He held her back with his free arm, and all Kari could do was listen helplessly as Tai read the results aloud. To Miss Kari Kamiya contestant 147 in Rising Sun Magazines amateur photography contest. Tai pushed her away one more time, and began pacing around the living room with Kari following his every move. Thank you for your entry Miss Kamiya. Your beautiful pictures really captured the essence, and serene beauty of the moment. We can tell you put a lot of heart into your work.

Tai stopped, and read the next part silently to himself apparently trying to absorb what he was reading. Kari listened nervously fearing why Tai had stopped reading aloud, and already blushing from what she had already heard. Finally, Tai smiled brightly, and practically yelled out the rest. Faced with the material youve sent us compared to the other contestants we were forced with no other alternative. Congratulations Miss Kamiya on becoming our grand prize winner!

Youre kidding! Kari shrieked in disbelief. Catching Tai with his guard down momentarily she snatched the letter from her hand, and read it out silently to herself. Tai wasnt kidding. It was just like he had recited word for word, except for several larger words Tai chose to skip rather than mispronounce. My god I cant believe it! Kari jumped up and down excitedly a couple times before engulfing Tai in a massive bear hug. Tai swung her around in celebration, as they both laughed.

You see Kari?! We all told you that you were good at this, and all you had to do was try! You did, and look what happened!

I know, and Ill have to remember to thank everyone again later, but first prize! I cant believe it! This was supposed to be a hobby... Im not that good!

Well, this says you are! Tai said, as he look down at the letter he had recaptured when he and Kari were embraced. Kari looked at him in surprise for a brief moment before groaning silently to herself. What was the grand prize again? A one month all expenses paid trip to the United States and Egypt with world-renowned Japanese photographer Yuri Hashinsu! All for the purpose of sharpening your skills in photography...

With stops at twelve of the most famous landmarks in the world, Kari said dreamily, remembering the magazine article perfectly. Including the Sphinx, Niagara Falls, and Lake Victoria...... Wait a second! When does it say the trip starts?

This says June 22nd! Thats less than a week away! Theyre not leaving much time to prepare are they?!

Thats almost my entire summer break...

Thats a good thing. At least it wont interfere with school. This is a great opportunity for you Kari... He looked down at his sister, and noticed her cheery expression had changed to a slightly solemn one. Kari? Are you okay? This was something you wanted wasnt it?

Of course it is silly! she answered, finding her smile again. I certainly wasnt expecting to win though... I cant wait to tell mom and dad!

Tai smiled, as he watched his sister race to her bedroom. Kari closed the door behind her, and rested herself against it. She giggled excitedly, overjoyed by the news, but slightly concerned with the sudden change of plans. Itll be okay. TK will understand.

********

Kari I know weve been friends a long time... No! Thats real original TK! Kari... Theres something I value above anything else in the world. Your heart... AH NO! Thats way too sappy!

Sounds good to me, Matt encouraged. Hed sat there and painfully watched his younger brother going on like this for almost an hour now.

No, no, no! Thats been said a million times! I want to be more original than that! TK insisted, sorry his brother was even there. He had actually gotten something from his latest confrontation with Davis though he wasnt sure exactly what it was. For some reason right afterwards, he decided he had to find a way to tell her... He was in the middle of trying to find a way how when Yomato decided to drop in unexpectedly, and caught him in the act. The last thing I want to do come up with something so simple Davis could think of it!

Dont make it anything to fancy TK, Matt suggested. No need to over do it. Just be yourself. Kari seems to like you just fine.

Yeah she does, TK laughed weakly. Just not quite the way I want her to.

Are you really that blind?

What is that supposed to mean? TK asked, clearly unsure what his brother meant by that.

Matt simply smiled and shook his head. Nothing TK. Now that I think about it overdoing it just might be being yourself TK. Youve always been one to put 110% into everything you do.

TK smiled. You can call it that if you want to. I just want this to be special. Something well both remember long after she slaps the taste out of my mouth, and rejects me.

What makes you so sure shes going to reject you TK?!

Come on Matt! he pleaded, not wanting to explain this to his brother. Kari doesnt feel that way about me. Why would she? I mean shes gorgeous! Shes an angel... She deserves a lot better than I could ever offer her.

And what could anyone else give that you couldnt?

You know... Everything! Im not exactly what most people would call good looking...

Matt seemed to grow very annoyed at that comment. What are you trying to say Takeru? In case youve forgotten most people say that... YOU LOOK JUST LIKE ME!

TK sweat dropped, forgetting his brothers rather large and easily bruised ego. Well, I dont look exactly like you Matt... Anyway, if Kari really did have those kind of feelings for me dont you think she wouldve told me by now?

Well, let me put it this way. I can imagine Tai and Kari having this exact same conversation right now, and Kari saying.... Matt put his hands under his chin, and mimicked his best little girls voice impression. If TK really did have those kind of feelings for me dont you think he wouldve told me by now?

TK sweat dropped again, sensing he was losing this argument. Okay, okay I get your point! I know Ive taken my sweet time with this, but Karis different.

Ive got to remember to tell me she can strike out becoming a lawyer for you. You cant even build up a decent case to prosecute yourself!

Im not trying to prosecute myself! he yelped, growing defensive. I happen to like myself very much. I know Im not perfect thats all.

Are you still going to tell her, Matt asked, getting back to the root of the subject.

I have all intentions to. I cant keep hiding it forever. I use to think Davis use to single me out just because he was jealous, but by the way hes talking lately he may actually be on to something. I really want Kari to hear it from me, and not somewhere else.

Do you really love her? the interrogation continued.

Of course I do! Simply the easiest question he ever answered.

Just making sure before you run off and do this. One last question. Can you live without here?

TK had to think about that one for a moment. Yeah, I can live without her. Id have to. I just dont want to.

All Matt could do was smile. Good answer bro. I dont want you to be to heart broken if things dont work out.

I cant promise that, TK laughed. Oh, and Matt. There is one thing I can give Kari that no one else can, and I plan on giving it to here when I tell her.

Oh, and whats that?

Ill give you a hint. It didnt cost me a dime, but it can be the most valuable thing in the world in the hands of the right person.

Matt frowned. TK, you know I hate riddles!

Its not a riddle, TK smirked. Its just a matter of fact.

********

TK sat silently slumped into his chair in a corner of the computer room. Kari had asked all of her friends to meet there after school because she had something important she wanted to say, and wanted to tell all of them at once. He was extremely nervous, but that wasnt the reason why. He decided that was the night he was going to confess himself to her. He saw no point in prolonging it any further. After she said what she needed to say he was going to take her off somewhere alone, and pour his heart out to her. The only small glitch he had to worry about involved the owner of the set of eyes staring a hole through him on the other side of the room. Davis hadnt removed his gaze from TK once since he walked in the door. His eyes seemed to hold a little added distain towards him that afternoon. Apparently he was still smarting from the conversation they had the day before. The honest truth was TK was sick and tired of this personal little feud he had going with Davis. A feud he wanted no part of, but Davis kept pushing and pushing to a point where TK had to push back before Davis shoved him over the edge. He remembered very clearly how his brother Matt and Tai would fight all the time when they were his age, but now they were the best of friends. It was different with him and Davis somehow. Matt and Tai at least tried to get along, and they did from time to time. Davis on the other hand didnt seem willing to make peace at all. He wouldnt even dislike the boy so much, if Davis wouldnt act like such a prick to him all the time. And to think all of it was over a supposed relationship between TK and Kari that didnt even really exist yet, and one between Davis and Kari that only existed in Daviss own personal fantasy world. The only reason. TK had never done anything else to insult or rile Davis up in anyway, so that had to be it. The tension was so thick at times, then even came to blows more than once. From the way Davis was looking at him things looked about ready to erupt to that point again, if it hadnt been for Ken sitting across the room. He held a stern gaze on both of them, like a mother would give to her children saying youd two better behave or else. TK wasnt completely innocent himself, as he himself shot Davis a couple threatening glances of his own, still upset over a few of Daviss comments from the same conversation. He was more than ready and willing to come to blows if Davis was so inclined to push it to that point.

Ken moved his eyes back and forth to each boy concerned by the intense looks on both their faces. Davis and TK never did see eye-to-eye, but Ken noticed theyd been particularly hostile towards each other lately. Today seemed to be worse that it ever had been before. Ken decided it would a good idea to stay between them, and make sure they got through the day without dismembering each other. He knew Davis wasnt afraid to fight, and he learned that TK knew how to throw a punch the hard way. Yolie and Cody were behind them staring at one of the computer screens, apparently oblivious to the entire situation. The tense mood was finally shattered when a rather jubilant looking Kari bounced in the room, shutting the door behind her.

Kari! TK and Davis both called her name simultaneously. They looked at each other and frowned. Ken looked at Kari, then back at them and sweat dropped.

Hey Kari, whats the big news? Yolie asked.

I dont mean to be a bother, but can you make it quick? Cody requested. I dont want to be late for kendo practice with Grandpa. Im too tired to even try to attempt to understand one of his lectures today.

This wont take me long Cody, Kari promised, before doing a quick head count to make sure ever one was there. Do you guys remember that contest I entered for amateur photographers last month?

Yolie would be the one to answer. How could we not?! We had to help push you into doing it remember?!

I remember, and thanks to all of you for believing in me. Kari giggled unable to help getting excited. Youre not going to believe this, but I won first prize!

After a few scattered shocked expressions from her friends, everyone swarmed Kari at once congratulating her. Only TK stood in back of the rest of the group.

You see, I told you could do it didnt I?! Davis bragged, as he put his hand on her shoulder.

What exactly did you say was first prize for that contest anyway? Ken asked.

A one month trip to both Egypt and the US, TK answered for her, as he finally walked into the group sporting a big smile. Kari had told him all about the contest and the grand prize before she even decided to enter. Shes going to get the chance to photograph some of the most famous landmarks in the world, with one of Japans most renowned photographers.

Davis looked ready to have a coronary. Wait a minute! A whole month?!

Yes, Kari replied. Starting this Friday.

Thats an awfully long time, Yolie noticed. Hey, if anybody deserves its you!

Shes right. I hope you have fun. Cody added.

Are you guys listening to what youre saying?! Davis bellowed, clearly not seeing things in a positive light. An entire month?! She cant go! We need her here! He looked at Kari who in turn suddenly felt guilty, and looked at the ground.

Of course shes going to go Davis! Yolie yelled, as she got up in Davis face. She won this contest fair and square! Shes your friend, and you should be supporting her JUST LIKE THE REST OF US!

But what about us?! Davis challenged. Shes just going to run off for a month, and leave her friends here high and dry! What if were needed in the Digital World again! A lot of good shes going to do us half a world away!

Calm down Davis! TK placed his hand on Daviss shoulder, and resisted the urge to pop his head of his shoulders. This is a big opportunity for her, and she cant pass it up!

I will not calm down! Davis barked, as he slapped TKs arm away. You might want her to leave, but I dont! Shes your best friend, and your trying to get rid of her?!

Kari was still huddled against the door, and by this time had gotten very upset. Guys... Maybe I should think this through a little more. If youll excuse I think I need to get some air. She opened the door quickly, and practically flew outside.

Kari wait! TK called after her.

Yolie looked at Davis disgustedly as the door slammed behind her. None of the others had very kind expressions to offer him either, but Yolie was the only one facing him. Now look what you did you big jerk! She might actually consider not going now!

What did I do?! Davis asked dumbly.

Davis was caught by surprise as he felt a rather strong hand grab him by the arm, and drag him to the far corner of the computer lab. Davis shook his arm lose from TKs grasp, and glared at an equally unhappy set of blue eyes. What do you think your doing TM! Dont you ever grab me like that again!

Though most people wouldve already resorted to putting his lights out right there, and TK was tempted, he talked to Davis calmly instead of whacking him. Look this is something Karis always dreamed of, and Im not going to let you ruin it for her! Thats your problem right there. Your being selfish, all youve thought about is you, and how you feel. You didnt stop for a second to think whats best for Kari. The world doesnt revolve around you Davis! Get that through your head! Were talking about one measly month during one summer of your lifetime, up against one month that could help pave the road Kari takes for the rest of her life!

What Davis did next was unexpected. TK was all but ready for Davis to come firing back at him, our try to defend himself in someway. Instead, Davis sort of mumbled quietly, and look at the ground in defeat. In a final response, Davis grunted, and turned around to begin staring out the window.

*Damn! Hes right... Why the hell is he always right?! Does he always have to go out of his way to let me know what a jerk I am?!... Damn him!*

TK shook his head, and motioned for the door. Im going to talk to Kari. If I know her as well as I think I do shes probably considering bailing out as we speak.

Oh no you dont! Davis shouted, suddenly springing back to life. Ill talk to her! He sprinted for the door, but Ken stuck his arm out to block his path.

Let him handle it Davis. He is her best friend. Besides, youve done enough damage as it is.

But why should he go after her, instead of me?! Davis demanded.

I shouldnt have to answer that Davis, Ken replied. Even youre not that naive.

TK found Kari a little ways down the hall, huddled up against a section of wall that was partially shielded by a row of lockers, examining her shoes. TK approached her with his typical warm and friendly smile.

Hey Kari. You okay?

Im fine. Just thinking? she replied, titling her head up slightly. You need something?

I never got the chance to congratulate you on winning that trip. I can tell how excited you were.

I was, Kari sighed. But Ive been thinking about what Davis said... Im not sure what Im going to do yet.

TK frowned. What are you talking about?! Of course youre going to go! This is your big chance, and you cant pass it up! This is something youve been wanting isnt it?

A dream come true almost, Kari sighed again. Its just when I found out I won I never really thought about leaving my friends, or considered something happening in the Digital World.

Is that all your worried about?! So what if something happens in the Digital World?! TK laughed. I guess you were to upset to remember, but you can get to the Digital World anytime your needed, as long as your near a computer!

Thats true, she admitted. But...

Dont worry about us either Kari, he interrupted. Davis has a big mouth, and hes not use to thinking before he speaks. He was just upset over hearing you were going to be gone so long, but deep down hes happy for you too. This could be a once in a lifetime opportunity, and youll regret it if you miss out on it. Sure well all miss you, especially me, but well all be here when you get back. Hey, its only a month!

Kari looked up at him, and smiled. The glass is always half full to you huh?

When Im thirty enough it is.

Kari giggled before giving TK a big hug. Though nether one of them gave it a second thought, they both enjoyed it a lot more than they would let on. Youre to good to me TK. Thanks for always being there for me.

Hey, its nothing you wouldnt do for me, TK said, as he reluctantly removed his arms from around her.

*Why does he always show me up?! Why?! Why?! Why?! Look at them... Friends my ass!* Davis thought, as he watched them through the door which was open just a crack. The school had emptied out considerably by that time of day, and all the kids in the computer room could hear everything TK and Kari had said. Hes making a fool out of me!

I dont know why he bothers, Ken said. Youve been doing a good enough job of that yourself.

Davis was ready to comment on Kens wisecrack, but Kari and TK picked that moment to walk back into the lab causing Davis to divert his attention to her. Kari! Im sorry about what I said. I didnt really mean it, I was just shocked. Im really sorry.

Its okay Davis, I forgive you. I know you were just upset at the thought of me leaving. I dont how youre going to manage surviving without me around for an entire month!

Thanks Kari. Davis sighed in relief, and smiled. Itll be tough, but Ill manage. I know youll do a great job. Hey! I want to see all your pictures when you get back!

So I guess that means your going, Cody deduced.

Kari nodded her head in confirmation. Yep.

In that case maybe we should have a going away party for you before you leave on Friday! Yolie suggested. Since your going away for most of the summer we should at least spend what little time we have with you in style!

Thats a great idea Yolie! Davis agreed. Maybe Ill even reward you with a goodbye kiss? What do you think Kari.

Thanks, but I think Ill pass Davis. Kari smiled happily, as she listen to her friends give their suggestions on what they should do for the party. It made things a lot easier knowing she had the support of all her friends. She gave a quick look to TK, who smiled back at her. He seemed happy for her, but she could tell something was bothering him deep down. Like their was something eating away at his mind. She wondered what it was.



End.