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"Tell Him"
A KnuxAmy Story

By: Jade Lightning, a.k.a. Inuyashas-hanyougirl

Part Two: Relearning Love

   After having some cereal and milk for breakfast, Amy changed into a new outfit, as she was still wearing the same one she had the day before, and got ready for the trip to Angel Island.  It had been awhile since she had last set foot on the floating island, and she was looking forward to returning.

   Wait, she was looking forward to it.  As Amy walked along the coast, she realized this was the first time in a long time that she was actually excited about something.  The more she thought about it, the more she became aware of the spring in her step, the smile on her face, and the joyful mood about her.  She walked with her head held high, her shoulders back, as her arms swung freely at her sides.  This was a big switch from just the day before, when her head and shoulders drooped, her arms folded tightly across her chest, and her feet felt so heavy they barely left the ground.

   Everyone said she hardly smiled anymore; now, even as she thought about what caused this change, the smile was hard pressed to leave her face.

   Amy tried to think about what is was that made her so happy.  All that had happened over the course of that day, the events that made her mood and spirits lift drastically, all revolved around one person, Knuckles.  Sure, Sonic was gone too, but that had only made her feel worse.  The thing was, it didn’t plague her thoughts anymore; it didn’t serve to hurt her.  Infact, when she thought of Sonic, no more emotions were attached to it, save the hope that he had arrived safely and was doing alright.

   Why had this happened?  Just yesterday Sonic was the center of her thoughts, and that upset her as it had for the past year.  Now he was only a fleeting thought, and was a neutral one at that.  She couldn’t help but feel better now, right?

   The question now was how had Knuckles helped her get over Sonic?  Was it the clean apartment that allowed her demeanor to change?  Or was it simply the act?  The more and more she tried to envision Knuckles cleaning a house, the more convinced she was that he did it looking for whatever way he could try and help her.  But that still didn’t explain how she was able to let go of Sonic.

   Maybe what it was, was that Sonic was just a part of her bad mood.  Perhaps when the bad mood was lifted, her sadness involving her failed love for Sonic faded away too.  It was like she had a fresh slate, a brand new start to her life.

   And to start that brand new beginning, she was going to see Knuckles, even after he promised to return to her in the letter he wrote.  She was so eager to thank him and get her new attitude and outlook off on the right foot that she found herself jogging along as Angel Island grew larger and closer on the horizon.

   With the island floating grandly above her, she giggled and said, “It doesn’t matter why I feel better; the important thing is that I am feeling better.  I want everything to keep going as wonderfully as they are now.  With Sonic gone for awhile I can get back to my life.”  She paused, slowing her steps as the shadow of Angel Island swept over her.  Stopping, she smiled and said, “I can start shopping again, be a better friend to Tails and Cream, and…maybe Knuckles and I can forge a strong friendship, one we both need, so we’ll always have someone to keep our eyes fixed on the light.”

   After finding her way up onto the island, Amy walked through the woods, heading in the direction of the Master Emerald’s altar.  It had been a long while since she was last there for a visit, but had no trouble remembering the way to go.

   Giggling to herself, she murmured, “I wonder what he’ll think when he sees me here.  He’ll be surprised I bet.”  Amy could feel her nerves tickling the back of her neck, making it feel like it was being bathed by sunlight.  The smile was so comfortable on her face Amy felt it would never fade.  She couldn’t remember being so happy.

   As she walked through the woods, Knuckles was lying face down beside the Master Emerald, fast asleep, even as it grew late in the morning, exhausted from the work from the night before.  As he walked home that night, he was happy that he was able to help Amy, and hoped that it would speak to her somehow.  Even so, once he cleared the last step of the altar, he collapsed and immediately fell asleep, and hadn’t opened his eyes at all since.

   And so Amy was surprised when the Master Emerald and its stone altar came into view, only to see Knuckles lying down in this way, almost as if he had fainted and hadn’t gotten up again.  Amy felt her jubilant spirit chased away by fear.  Bringing her hands to the sides of her mouth so her voice could reach his ears, she cried out, “Knuckles!  Hey Knuckles!  Are you okay?”

   The echidna, though still tired, was in a light enough sleep to hear Amy’s cries.  He had to be; over the years he had trained himself to keep his hearing active and acute so he could get good, restorative sleep, but still remain on the alert for danger.  Today, it roused him from slumber when he heard Amy’s cries, and while it wasn’t a voice to provoke him to be on the defense, it certainly surprised him.

   As he pushed himself up to his knees, blinking his tired eyes, Knuckles scolded himself mentally for reacting so sluggishly, even if it was just Amy and not an attacker, while at the same time desperately trying to wake himself up.  By the time his vision had adjusted and allowed him to see again, Amy was already climbing the bottom steps of the altar, slowing her pace now when he began to rise.

   “Amy…?” Knuckles murmured, his voice still tired, “What, when did you get here?”  He eased himself up off his knees long enough so he could sit back down, rubbing his eyes as he let out a yawn.

   The pink hedgehog watched him, her hands held together in front of her, suddenly feeling very shy.  She could picture Knuckles cleaning up her apartment, doing work that needed to be done for several months, but went unresolved as she let her depression destroy her.  It was work she couldn’t have done in a couple of days, even in this good mood of hers, and Knuckles had done it in less than one night.  Trying to tease herself, she reasoned that Santa Claus would need nothing short of echidna strength in order to get the job of delivering presents done in one night.  Even though she no longer believed in Santa Claus, but instead believed in the joy his story brought to children, it was enough to make her smile again.

   Still, she spoke softly as she said, “You must be tired.  …My apartment was nothing but a gigantic mess.  I wouldn’t have asked you to clean it up…heck, I wouldn’t have asked anyone to clean it up.”  After a long pause, Amy watched as Knuckles raised his eyes to gaze into hers, before murmuring, “Thank you…”

   If Knuckles wasn’t fully awake before, a rush of sweet relief chased away any remaining fatigue.  The echidna could see the sparkle had returned to Amy’s eyes.  He saw her smiling, not to allay the concern of her friends, but because she was genuinely happy.  Suddenly, not having enough sleep didn’t matter to the echidna.  Something he had done had worked.  Amy was getting better; she was happy again.

   Cracking a smile, Knuckles rubbed the back of his head, saying, “Aww don’t mention it Amy.  I just…I wanted to help out.”  A yawn interrupted him.  As he opened his eyes in its wake, he saw Amy on the tail end of a giggle, holding one hand to her mouth as the other rested in her lap.  Taking a breath to stave off another yawn, he asked, “How did it get so bad to begin with Amy?  I…I never thought you’d be the kind to let that happen.  I know you couldn’t have enjoyed living like that.”

   Amy’s smile waivered for a bit, and the echidna yelled at himself mentally for even bringing it up.  However, he saw Amy shake her head, and reply, “I was depressed, and my environment reflected that, I guess…”  She paused, her smile strengthening, and added, “I let the end of one dream try to crush the hope of finding another one.  I guess, I figured, if my so-called perfect life with Sonic could never happen, then a perfect life for me would never happen.  My true love would never come.  I…I couldn’t see past him, and so, I couldn’t see my future anymore.  I let my apartment fall into chaos, I stopped hanging out with my friends.  I gave up shopping and having fun, all because I thought my life revolved around him.  Everything revolved around him…and when he stepped out, everything fell apart.”

   The echidna gazed at her, watching as she lowered her eyes, looking out over the island as she spoke.  Knuckles let a sigh escape him, looking off in the same direction as she, the eastern horizon, and murmured, “I…I know what it feels like…to have no hope.”

   Looking back to him, Amy replied, “I don’t doubt it Knuckles…the difference between you and me is I’m the one who caused my sadness.  Sonic didn’t do anything.  He was honest and tried his best to help me let go.  I’m the one who let it destroy me, foolishly thinking I had nothing left.  …You, you had your life ripped out from under you.  You had every reason to be sad, and yet you still moved forward.  You didn’t give up, like I did.”

   Knuckles shook his head, chuckling softly as he looked down to the ground below.  “I’m not invincible Amy; I act like I am.  It’s the strongest who do the best to hide what weaknesses they do have.  To be honest, the child who lost his family and kindred is still there.  He’s still afraid that he’ll have nothing left in the morning.  He knows something bad has happened and doesn’t know if he’ll ever make it out alive.  And yet, when he wakes up in the morning, and sees everyone dead around him, and he feels he has nothing left, he looks up, and sees the great jewel of his people survived the night with him.  After he’s cried enough, and believe me, he cried for awhile, he does his best to honor the fallen, even though he is only a child.  Once he’s laid them to rest, he returns his attention to his only companion.  As he tries to learn of its charms, he begins to wonder why they survived.  Even after his home is back where it belongs and he’s found some purpose, he wonders.  Why did they survive?  Why not his father?  Why not his mother?  Why did he survive to control the Master Emerald and live alone?”

   Amy felt tears forming in her eyes as she clasped her hands over her mouth, watching with her breath clenched still as she listened to him, her eyes never leaving his face and his violet eyes.  Finally, he looked back to her, smiling weakly and continued, “And you know something Amy?  He realized…he would never find an answer to his question.  He decided, he would have to do his best to see past what tried to bring him down, even if it meant hiding this weaker, gentler side to the world, and wait to see what his purpose was.  Already, we’ve seen the need for the Master Emerald, and thus, a Guardian to control it.  Sure, my father could have done this, but, I think you all were better with a peer, someone you could drag along on adventures and convince to lend you their power.  Heh, I doubt the echidnas would be keen on the things I’ve done with the Master Emerald, even if it was worth it in the end every time.”  Laughing softly, Knuckles returned his gaze to the horizon and added, “I survived, not just to stay here and look after the Master Emerald, but because there are those who need me.  I don’t think life can ever work out how we want it.  There’s a reason we’re not in control of it.  The power that watches over us knows better.  What I do know Amy, is as long as we’re still alive, we have a reason to keep going.  We still have a reason to smile.”

   Looking back to her, he took one of her hands and held it, patting it gently.  “What that means Amy, is just because we can’t understand why things turn out the way they do, and we lose sight of the road before us for awhile, doesn’t mean that we should give up.  There’s nothing wrong with mourning a little, even I did.  What’s important, is that you don’t let it take over your life.”

   Amy looked at his hands as they held hers, before looking up to his face, right at the same time that he returned his gaze to hers.  They both let out a soft gasp, looking to the side for a moment, before Amy let out a giggle and said, “That’s exactly what I let happen to me.  …I can’t believe I let something so stupid hurt me.  I’m pretty pathetic, moping and worrying my friends for over a year after annoying them in the years before by obsessing constantly over the very thing I got upset about.  There are people going through real pain every day that handle it better than me.”

   “Aww Amy, don’t look at it like that,” Knuckles said.

   Gently pulling her hand away from his grasp, Amy stood up, looking in the direction of Station Square as she said, “You dealt with losing your family, everything you ever knew, as a little kid, better than I handled Sonic rejecting me.  I shouldn’t even say that he rejected me.  He was as nice about it as he could be.  I’ve acted like such a fool.  I can’t believe this.”

   Jumping to his feet, Knuckles stood beside her, looking in the same direction as she for a moment, before looking back to her and saying, “Stop it Amy.  Don’t upset yourself again now that you’ve found happiness.  You are no fool.  You had your heart broken.  Even if you were a little obsessive over it, you still loved him.  Okay, maybe it wasn’t true love like you thought it was, but…I know you’ll find it someday.  Point is, I don’t think a broken heart is any easier to get over than a wounded spirit.  To be honest, I cried just about every day for two years after I lost my parents.  Once I got Angel Island into the sky again, I forced myself to toughen up.  I decided that in order to avoid feeling that sadness again, I’d simply hide any links to that side of my soul.  That’s why I’m so…gruff I guess.  I don’t want to hurt again.  You did better than I did.  At least you’re not going to live in depression for another year before closing off your heart to everyone afterwards.”

   The echidna had lowered his eyes, gazing in the direction of his old village, his eyes somber and soft as if what they saw pained him in every way imaginable.  Amy looked on sadly, thinking over all that was said.  Instead of trying to console him, Amy wrapped her arms around him and quickly, but gently, pulled him into a hug, even as he faced away from her.  This startled him, but he relaxed as he listened to her speak, resting her head on his back as she did.

   “You…you would have pulled out of it quicker than me or anyone I know Knuckles.  The only reason I’m happy again is because I…I had you to pull me back.  You didn’t have anybody to help you.  You got through it by yourself.  Heaven knows what would have happened to me if you hadn’t reached out to try and help me.  It’s…it’s not fair…what happened to you.  I got what I had coming to me.  You…you didn’t deserve this,” her voice trailed off into silence.  Knuckles could feel tears soaked up by his fur where her head rested.

   Knuckles felt paralyzed by shock.  He felt so many emotions at once he couldn’t pick one out to nurse before trying to console Amy.  And yet, he felt a smile creep to his lips as he turned around slowly, wrapping his arms around Amy to maintain the hug as they shifted where they stood.  She looked up at him, and holding on to his smile, he replied, “The important thing now Amy, is not whether or not we got what we deserved.  What’s important, is to do the best with what we’re given, do our best to move on, and be thankful for it all.”

   As tears fell from her eyes, Amy gazed at him, her faced painted with wonder and awe.  Unable to speak, she simply lowered her head, resting it on his chest as she leaned into the hug.  Knuckles supported her weight as they stood together, rubbing her back to try and soothe her.

   Finally, a voice escaped her lips in a soft whimper.  “You’re…you’re right Knuckles.  I’ll…I’ll do my best, like you have.”

   The echidna laughed softly.  “That’s all you’ve got to do Amy.  It got me this far, and it’ll help you too.  Your friends will be here for you as well.  I…always will.”

   Looking up to him once more, Amy gazed into his empathetic eyes, before smiling again, and saying, “We can be here for each other.”

   Knuckles smiled, and the two returned their attention to their embrace.  It seemed that Sonic’s faith in his friend was well-placed.  He wasn’t envisioning the trauma of Knuckles’ past allowing him to connect with Amy on that level of pain, but it was exactly what they all needed.

   Over the next few weeks, Amy began to heal.  She kept her apartment clean, started eating healthier, and pretty much picked up where she had left off.  She made regular trips to the beach, and even got back to shopping again.  After spending months watching television as she sat on the couch, or whatever could be done in her apartment, Amy was ready to make up for that time lost.  She was more than ready to live again.

   And yet this new life wasn’t merely a continuation of where she left off.  She and Knuckles, realizing they had more in common than they thought, began to spend more time together.  Because Knuckles couldn’t get away from Angel Island too often, especially with the ancient security system in need of a tune up and inspection, Amy made regular trips to see him, as many as four times a week.

   The more time they spent together, the more they opened up.  This was quite an experience for Knuckles, who said so himself that he had done his best to hide his sensitivity from everyone.  In a way akin to how Shadow would open up to Rouge, Knuckles opened up to Amy, telling her pretty much anything she wanted to know about him, trusting that she would keep it shared between their hearts, and withhold it from going further.  Some of the memories he shared with her were enough to bring him to tears; these were weaknesses any enemy of his would prey upon to break him down.  Nobody would ever believe this strong, tough and stubborn echidna could be brought to his knees because of his painful past.  Amy loved this side of him, and did her best to comfort him.  They both knew there was nothing wrong with reflection.  Though you may weep, you’re stronger for it, and sometimes, sharing your suffering with a friend made it that much easier to bear.

   That was certainly the case for Amy, who tried to understand why her love for Sonic had spiraled into such an obsession, that even drove her crazy to remember.  She recalled falling for him when he had saved her as a child, long before she even knew Knuckles, or any of them.  She couldn’t remember one moment when it turned into her following Sonic around like a stalker.  After Knuckles laughed, remembering how much stress she caused Sonic, he put joking aside, and reasoned that Sonic was her hero, and like a lot of girls might do for their favorite actor or singer, she fantasized about them ending up together, and because of her fighting spirit and determination, was willing to do whatever it took to make it happen.

   No matter the reason, Amy told him she was just glad it was over now, and that she hoped that Sonic and Blaze were happy.

   Still, after nearly two months, Amy found herself troubled again.  She didn’t know why, for she had been happier than ever over those past weeks.  She and Knuckles spent so much time together.  He even consented to go shopping with her one afternoon, ending with them getting ice cream and walking on the beach together as the stars came out and the moon rose above them.  They had learned so much about each other, and even themselves.  Life around them just played in the background.  They lived in their own world, one where only they existed, and nothing could hurt them again.

   And yet, she was bothered by something.  As she walked home from the grocery store, she tried to figure out what was bothering her.  It definitely wasn’t Sonic.  Though they still hadn’t heard from him, she didn’t care.  He was obviously with Blaze and was happy again.  What else could there be to trouble her?

   “I just don’t know.  It stinks when something bothers you and you can’t even be sure of what it is,” Amy said as she walked, “Maybe I’ll ask Knuckles about it.”

   “Ask Knuckles?  Ask him about what?” a voice asked.

   Amy looked to her right and saw Rouge was now walking beside her, with Shadow to her right, his arms folded as he walked.

   “Hey Rouge!  Hey Shadow!” Amy said cheerfully.

   Shadow looked in her direction, used to this kind of reply from her, even if it hadn’t been heard in a long time.  He casually waved one hand and said, “Hey,” in reply.

   Rouge also recognized the change and asked, “My, my Amy.  What’s with the sudden change in demeanor?  Last time we saw you I didn’t think you could sink any lower.  Now it’s like you’re walking on air…and what does Knuckles have to do with any of this?”

   Amy laughed and said, “I know it’s weird Rouge, but…that night, after you all left, well, it’s a long story.”

   Rouge looked, seeing a boardwalk restaurant up ahead, and replied, “Well, you’ve got time don’t you?  Why don’t you tell me and Shadow what happened?  Maybe we can help you with this problem you’ve got.”

   “That sounds like a great idea!” Amy said.

   Shadow rolled his eyes and said, “Perfect, I’m thrilled.”

   As Amy entered the building, Rouge said, “Come on Shadow.  I know you miss the dark and depressed Amy, but we told Sonic we’d help her.  Just because she’s turned it around doesn’t mean we should pass up the chance to help.  You owe Sonic at least once don’t you?”

   As Rouge followed Amy, Shadow growled and muttered, “He used up that favor when you two took me shopping!  That was the most awful experience ever!  …Wait a minute…since I don’t owe him, I can help out Amy, and he’ll owe me a favor!” A grin returned to Shadow’s face, and as he entered the restaurant, he chuckled, “Heh, I’ll make sure to find the perfect way for him to make it up to me.”

   While Shadow had other motives in mind, both he and Rouge had lunch with Amy, listening to her story of how Knuckles had reached out to her, and told them about how she was able to start living her life again, the way she wanted to, doing what made her happy.  She told them that she let go of Sonic, finally able to understand what influenced her to go after him like she did.  Keeping secret what their conversations were about, Amy told them how talking about their fears helped her and Knuckles cope with their pasts.  Everything was so wonderful now that she and Knuckles had strengthened their friendship, and now were able to support each other.

   “Everything is perfect now.  I’ve never been happier.  I think Knuckles is happier too.  I know now that even if things don’t work out how they should, everything will be alright anyway,” Amy exclaimed.

   Shadow, who rested his head on the table out of boredom and annoyance, let a growl escape him as he waved his hand in the air above his head and muttered, “And he carried you off to his magical castle in the clouds and you both lived happily ever after.  Yeah, yeah, ugh!”  Raising his head, he added, “When is the wedding?  Where are you two registered?  My word, are there any other ways you wish to illustrate your romance?  Shall I get a pair of mimes and a sheet to help you?”

   “Alright big guy, relax,” Rouge said, patting Shadow on the shoulder, holding back a laugh.  “It’s over now, so chill,” she added, kissing him on the cheek.

   Only because Rouge was there did Shadow lower his arms and let out a sigh.  He ate the last of the fries on his plate, before standing up and saying, “I don’t care about doing favors for Sonic anymore.  I listened to the story, and I think it’s best if you give the advice Rouge.  As for me, I need some air.  Ugh…”  Shadow then left the restaurant and sat on a bench on the opposite side of the boardwalk.

   Rouge let out a sweet sigh.  That was her Shadow, well, the one that the rest of the world knew.  She knew on the inside that he wanted to help, but today just wasn’t one of those days.  Returning her attention to Amy, she saw the pink hedgehog gazing at her hands, which she cradled in her lap, her eyes plagued with disbelief.

   “Hey Amy, what’s wrong?  You look pretty disturbed…don’t let Shadow get to you.  He’s just having one of those days…,” Rouge explained.

   Looking up at Rouge, Amy asked, “Does it…does it really sound like we’re dating Rouge?  Is that why Shadow said those things?  Even if he is in a bad mood, which he usually always is anyway, why would he say those things unless that’s what it sound like?”  Amy looked out the window, where she could see Shadow sitting on a bench, and Angel Island floating near the coast in the distance.  “Is this what’s bothering me?  But…why would it?  I—I don’t understand…,” Amy started.

   “Amy, if you want my honest opinion, it was beginning to sound like you two are an item,” Rouge started.  Amy quickly looked back to her, and so she continued, “The story began with him carrying you home and cleaning your apartment.  Sure, he could have done that to try and cheer you up.  Heck, Shadow went to an uncomfortable length to try to do the same, but still, I can’t see Knuckles cleaning house for just anyone, even to cheer them up.  You must mean something more to him than just a friend.  I can’t see him opening up to anyone short of a girlfriend, and even then I could barely see it.  Do you think if he and I were dating that he’d tell me the secrets of his heart?  No way…he’d be too worried that we’d break up and I’d have something to use against him.  I do place a high value on jewels and juicy information for blackmail after all.”

   The pink hedgehog looked frozen.  She did not speak, and so Rouge sighed and added, “He must really, and I mean really trust you.  He trusts you enough to tell you stuff that could destroy him if used against him in an attack, stuff I could use if I were still interested in stealing the Master Emerald.  He’s either let his guard down, letting himself be weakened by your sadness and an empathetic heart, or he thinks you two will be together forever, and so he won’t have to worry about you betraying him.”

   “But…but couldn’t I just be a really good friend?  What if it was a brother/sister like bond?” Amy asked.

   Rouge gave Amy a look and said, “I’ve seen friends from childhood stab each other in the back Amy.  I’ve seen brothers and sisters, twins even, do the same.  Now, I’m not saying that two who fall in love have never fallen apart, but out of those three bonds, which one do you think he’ll put the most faith in?  If it’s true love, what would he have to be afraid of?  Even if you don’t feel that way, he obviously loves you enough to take that chance and bide his time.  Again, I can’t see him cleaning house for anyone; even if he had a sister I don’t think he’d do it for her.  If he wanted to cheer you up he could have taken you home and stayed with you until morning.  No, he saw your apartment and felt terrible for you.  That concern’s just evolved, and from the way it sounds, I can’t see him letting go of it, whether you return it or not.  With that attitude he’s taken, he’s opened up his heart, but won’t let it destroy him if the path he’s walking takes a turn.  If I were you Amy, I’d go ahead and get it cleared up so you can get back to that friendship.”

   As Rouge stood up to leave, Amy felt a tear roll down her cheek.  She tried to take in everything Rouge said before she replied, but saw Rouge had already left her half of the tip and bill and had left the restaurant.  Quickly throwing her money on the table and grabbing her groceries, Amy ran outside calling after her.

   “Rouge!  Shadow!  Please wait!” she cried.

   Shadow, who had just risen to his feet, growled and said, “Oh no, why?!” Throwing his hands up in the air he added, “I’m gonna make sure Sonic pays for this big time.  Grr…”

   “It’s okay Shadow,” Rouge said.  Turning to Amy, she asked, “What is it now Amy?  I gave you my advice.  What else do you want?”

   Sitting her groceries down and trying to catch her breath, Amy shook her head and said, “You…you don’t understand Rouge.  I never said I didn’t feel the same way about Knuckles that he does about me.”

   Rouge and Shadow looked at each other.  “Then why on earth are we having this conversation?  Take your stuff home and go tell the stubborn thing.  Lord knows with his stubborn streak it’ll take him years to tell you if he feels the same unless you tell him first!” Shadow exclaimed.

   Amy lowered her eyes, closing them to keep any more tears from falling, though she was failing miserably.  “I’m…I’m sorry Shadow.  I didn’t mean to upset you…it’s just…I don’t know if I can tell him.”

   Shadow’s eyes softened when he heard this.  Both he and Rouge could hear Amy start to cry, and as Shadow walked her over to the bench and they sat beside her, he said, “No, it’s okay Amy…I’m…I…I apologize for shouting.  It’s just one of those days…I guess.”  He paused, he and Rouge exchanging glances, before he added, “But why can’t you tell him?  You just said you felt the same about him, what’s so hard about saying it?  Heaven knows you preached your love for blue boy everywhere you went.”

   “Shadow,” Rouge said, “Maybe we should stay away from that subject.”

   “Can I help it if it’s true?” Shadow asked.

   Rouge sighed, but before she could speak, Amy stomped her foot and said, “No!  It’s because I never really loved Sonic.  What I felt for him was a silly girlhood crush spun out of proportions.  It’s easier to lie than to tell the truth about some things, and this is one of them.”

   “They say it’s the hardest thing to say…that you love someone.  It’s right up there with asking for help, and telling someone you’re sorry.  I still struggle with those two, although, telling Rouge I love her flows so easy off the tongue I don’t consider it hard to say anymore,” Shadow explained.

   “That’s true Shadow, but when it comes to the first time telling someone you love how you feel is one of the hardest things to do.  It wasn’t exactly easy for us,” Rouge replied.

   Amy looked at them, still crying and asked, “What are you talking about?  Everyone knew you two loved each other!  I think it was the love you two had that made my ranting about Sonic easy to overlook.  How was it hard for you two?”

   Shadow laughed and said, “That may be true.  I think what Rouge is saying is we never came out and said ‘I love you’ even when we both clearly felt that way enough to where everyone could see.  We’d say it in other ways.  She promised me she’d always be there for me.  I promised her I’d go beyond the ends of existence for her.  I didn’t actually use the words ‘I love you’ to say it until not that long ago.”

   “What happened?” Amy asked.

   Rouge let out a nervous laugh and said, “That’s not important Amy.  Of course, when he did say it, he said it as if they were the only words he knew, with such confidence…such passion…”

   “Err, yes,” Shadow interrupted, tugging at his neck.  “I guess you can’t compare us saying it the first time to Amy and Knuckles saying it because you and I had already said it enough, we just…avoided those three words.”

   Amy looked between them and said, “Well, a lot of help you two are.”  Sniffing, she held her hands over her face and continued, “No, I’m sorry.  You’re doing your best.  I just…I don’t know what to do.  I’m so confused.  I know I’m not making this feeling up, but…how did it come up so fast?”

   Looking to the ocean, Shadow said, “True love knows no boundaries, including time.  Two months is a long time…but I believe, that souls that are meant to be together, when they reunite, the love flocks to them.  It takes next no time to blossom.  You and Knuckles just didn’t get the chance for this to happen because Sonic was in the way.  The very day he leaves, the very moment you come together, look what happens.  If this had happened three years ago you’d meet the same fate.  You simply had to get rid of Sonic to make room in your heart for Knuckles.  There was no way he could have opened up to you or you to him with that false love for Sonic leading you astray.  It makes perfect sense if you step back and look at it that way Amy.  It was not time that was the hindrance; it was Sonic.  Now that he’s let you go, you’re free to find true love.”

   In that moment, Amy was hit with a wave of emotions.  It often took time to get a good word out of Shadow, but he had made this statement the words she needed to understand a bit of what was troubling her.  Part of the healing process was furthered when she realized that Sonic had let go of her like he did so she could be free to find the kind of love he had found in Blaze.  If Shadow was right, this was what allowed this love for Knuckles to take off, even in this short time.  And yet, something bothered her.

   Looking to Shadow, she asked, “But…how can I know that Knuckles is my true love?”

   Shadow glanced at her, and then Rouge before he replied, “You can never know.”

   “Huh?” Amy asked.

   Standing up, Shadow said, “We’ll never know for certain.  You can’t look at two people and say, ‘Oh, they’re meant to be.’  Now, I’ve known people with special powers who claim they can hear the song our souls sing and the ones that sing together are soul mates, but they’ve also told me they believe it’s better to trust your heart and the heart of the one you love.  However, seeing how you’re reacting to all this gives me the idea that what you have here is true love.  The way you’re weeping now.  You’re so worried about it, not because you’re unsure of it, but because you care about it, and him, a great deal, and either want to make sure this is for real, or don’t want to ruin it somehow.”

   Rouge patted Amy on the back and said, “I think this is for real Shadow.  I don’t think she needs much more persuasion.”

   Sitting back down, Shadow replied, “No, I think she does.  Even if she trusts the love enough to know it’s there, she still doesn’t know if she can tell him or not.  She doesn’t trust it enough.”

   “Stop it!” Amy cried.  Jumping to her feet, she grabbed her groceries and shouted, “I…I love Knuckles!  I just…I can’t tell him!  I just…I don’t think I can.  He…he needs somebody who can really be there for him and take care of him…I don’t know if I can do it!  The last thing I want is to break his heart like Sonic broke mine!  I…I just can’t, I won’t!  I…I don’t know what to do!”

   With that, Amy ran off, heading for her apartment, leaving Shadow and Rouge behind.  Rouge was stunned, while Shadow gazed at the people on the beach as if he was bored.  Rouge said, “Poor Amy.  We should do something to help her.  …Shadow?”

   Shadow looked to Rouge and said, “Another favor for Sonic…boy, he’s gonna be up to his eyeballs in debt when he gets back.”

   As Shadow stood up, Rouge asked, “Are you really doing this just so Sonic will owe you a favor Shadow?”

   Rouge stood up and looked to Shadow.  The black and red hedgehog took her hand and said, “Nah, I just like messing with him.”  Watching the distance as Amy finally disappeared, Shadow added, “We’ll just have to tell Knuckles for her.  Then, he’ll feel better about saying something, and he can tell her without her even knowing we got the ball rolling.”

   Tugging on Rouge’s hand, the couple started to walk in the direction of Angel Island.  Rouge asked, “But Shadow?  How can we be sure that Knuckles really feels that way about her?  We could be way off here.  It won’t be the first time Knuckles has been accused of something only to deny it.”

   As they walked, Shadow replied, “I know he cares about her.  There’s no denying that.  Even if he doesn’t love her, when he finds out how she feels, he’ll return the feelings…if not right away, but gradually.”

   “I just hope that’s not what we did with Amy.  I hope you talking about them getting married didn’t awake false feelings in her,” Rouge replied.

   With a grin on his face, Shadow replied, “She loves him.  That’s what was bothering her.  She’s never felt true love before so she didn’t know how to react.  She treasures that friendship so much…it’s enough for her.  She doesn’t have to put love into it in order to make it important to her.  She was overcome when she realized that’s how she really feels about him.  It means that much to her…it drove her to tears.  If I had awoken false feelings I wouldn’t have gotten that reaction.  Trust me.”

   They walked in silence after this, and yet Shadow thought, “Poor girl.  After what happened with Sonic, she just wants to make sure she doesn’t break Knuckles’ heart.  That’s true love.  I think at last, she’s understanding what love really is.  I’ll be dammed if I thought it would take that echidna to do it.  …I hope they can make it work.  Rouge and I have to help.  If Amy can’t tell him…we will.”

Description
"Tell Him"
A KnuxAmy Story

By: Jade Lightning, a.k.a. Inuyashas-hanyougirl

Part Two: Relearning Love

   After having some cereal and milk for breakfast, Amy changed into a new outfit, as she was still wearing the same one she had the day before, and got ready for the trip to Angel Island.  It had been awhile since she had last set foot on the floating island, and she was looking forward to returning.

   Wait, she was looking forward to it.  As Amy walked along the coast, she realized this was the first time in a long time that she was actually excited about something.  The more she thought about it, the more she became aware of the spring in her step, the smile on her face, and the joyful mood about her.  She walked with her head held high, her shoulders back, as her arms swung freely at her sides.  This was a big switch from just the day before, when her head and shoulders drooped, her arms folded tightly across her chest, and her feet felt so heavy they barely left the ground.

   Everyone said she hardly smiled anymore; now, even as she thought about what caused this change, the smile was hard pressed to leave her face.

   Amy tried to think about what is was that made her so happy.  All that had happened over the course of that day, the events that made her mood and spirits lift drastically, all revolved around one person, Knuckles.  Sure, Sonic was gone too, but that had only made her feel worse.  The thing was, it didn’t plague her thoughts anymore; it didn’t serve to hurt her.  Infact, when she thought of Sonic, no more emotions were attached to it, save the hope that he had arrived safely and was doing alright.

   Why had this happened?  Just yesterday Sonic was the center of her thoughts, and that upset her as it had for the past year.  Now he was only a fleeting thought, and was a neutral one at that.  She couldn’t help but feel better now, right?

   The question now was how had Knuckles helped her get over Sonic?  Was it the clean apartment that allowed her demeanor to change?  Or was it simply the act?  The more and more she tried to envision Knuckles cleaning a house, the more convinced she was that he did it looking for whatever way he could try and help her.  But that still didn’t explain how she was able to let go of Sonic.

   Maybe what it was, was that Sonic was just a part of her bad mood.  Perhaps when the bad mood was lifted, her sadness involving her failed love for Sonic faded away too.  It was like she had a fresh slate, a brand new start to her life.

   And to start that brand new beginning, she was going to see Knuckles, even after he promised to return to her in the letter he wrote.  She was so eager to thank him and get her new attitude and outlook off on the right foot that she found herself jogging along as Angel Island grew larger and closer on the horizon.

   With the island floating grandly above her, she giggled and said, “It doesn’t matter why I feel better; the important thing is that I am feeling better.  I want everything to keep going as wonderfully as they are now.  With Sonic gone for awhile I can get back to my life.”  She paused, slowing her steps as the shadow of Angel Island swept over her.  Stopping, she smiled and said, “I can start shopping again, be a better friend to Tails and Cream, and…maybe Knuckles and I can forge a strong friendship, one we both need, so we’ll always have someone to keep our eyes fixed on the light.”

   After finding her way up onto the island, Amy walked through the woods, heading in the direction of the Master Emerald’s altar.  It had been a long while since she was last there for a visit, but had no trouble remembering the way to go.

   Giggling to herself, she murmured, “I wonder what he’ll think when he sees me here.  He’ll be surprised I bet.”  Amy could feel her nerves tickling the back of her neck, making it feel like it was being bathed by sunlight.  The smile was so comfortable on her face Amy felt it would never fade.  She couldn’t remember being so happy.

   As she walked through the woods, Knuckles was lying face down beside the Master Emerald, fast asleep, even as it grew late in the morning, exhausted from the work from the night before.  As he walked home that night, he was happy that he was able to help Amy, and hoped that it would speak to her somehow.  Even so, once he cleared the last step of the altar, he collapsed and immediately fell asleep, and hadn’t opened his eyes at all since.

   And so Amy was surprised when the Master Emerald and its stone altar came into view, only to see Knuckles lying down in this way, almost as if he had fainted and hadn’t gotten up again.  Amy felt her jubilant spirit chased away by fear.  Bringing her hands to the sides of her mouth so her voice could reach his ears, she cried out, “Knuckles!  Hey Knuckles!  Are you okay?”

   The echidna, though still tired, was in a light enough sleep to hear Amy’s cries.  He had to be; over the years he had trained himself to keep his hearing active and acute so he could get good, restorative sleep, but still remain on the alert for danger.  Today, it roused him from slumber when he heard Amy’s cries, and while it wasn’t a voice to provoke him to be on the defense, it certainly surprised him.

   As he pushed himself up to his knees, blinking his tired eyes, Knuckles scolded himself mentally for reacting so sluggishly, even if it was just Amy and not an attacker, while at the same time desperately trying to wake himself up.  By the time his vision had adjusted and allowed him to see again, Amy was already climbing the bottom steps of the altar, slowing her pace now when he began to rise.

   “Amy…?” Knuckles murmured, his voice still tired, “What, when did you get here?”  He eased himself up off his knees long enough so he could sit back down, rubbing his eyes as he let out a yawn.

   The pink hedgehog watched him, her hands held together in front of her, suddenly feeling very shy.  She could picture Knuckles cleaning up her apartment, doing work that needed to be done for several months, but went unresolved as she let her depression destroy her.  It was work she couldn’t have done in a couple of days, even in this good mood of hers, and Knuckles had done it in less than one night.  Trying to tease herself, she reasoned that Santa Claus would need nothing short of echidna strength in order to get the job of delivering presents done in one night.  Even though she no longer believed in Santa Claus, but instead believed in the joy his story brought to children, it was enough to make her smile again.

   Still, she spoke softly as she said, “You must be tired.  …My apartment was nothing but a gigantic mess.  I wouldn’t have asked you to clean it up…heck, I wouldn’t have asked anyone to clean it up.”  After a long pause, Amy watched as Knuckles raised his eyes to gaze into hers, before murmuring, “Thank you…”

   If Knuckles wasn’t fully awake before, a rush of sweet relief chased away any remaining fatigue.  The echidna could see the sparkle had returned to Amy’s eyes.  He saw her smiling, not to allay the concern of her friends, but because she was genuinely happy.  Suddenly, not having enough sleep didn’t matter to the echidna.  Something he had done had worked.  Amy was getting better; she was happy again.

   Cracking a smile, Knuckles rubbed the back of his head, saying, “Aww don’t mention it Amy.  I just…I wanted to help out.”  A yawn interrupted him.  As he opened his eyes in its wake, he saw Amy on the tail end of a giggle, holding one hand to her mouth as the other rested in her lap.  Taking a breath to stave off another yawn, he asked, “How did it get so bad to begin with Amy?  I…I never thought you’d be the kind to let that happen.  I know you couldn’t have enjoyed living like that.”

   Amy’s smile waivered for a bit, and the echidna yelled at himself mentally for even bringing it up.  However, he saw Amy shake her head, and reply, “I was depressed, and my environment reflected that, I guess…”  She paused, her smile strengthening, and added, “I let the end of one dream try to crush the hope of finding another one.  I guess, I figured, if my so-called perfect life with Sonic could never happen, then a perfect life for me would never happen.  My true love would never come.  I…I couldn’t see past him, and so, I couldn’t see my future anymore.  I let my apartment fall into chaos, I stopped hanging out with my friends.  I gave up shopping and having fun, all because I thought my life revolved around him.  Everything revolved around him…and when he stepped out, everything fell apart.”

   The echidna gazed at her, watching as she lowered her eyes, looking out over the island as she spoke.  Knuckles let a sigh escape him, looking off in the same direction as she, the eastern horizon, and murmured, “I…I know what it feels like…to have no hope.”

   Looking back to him, Amy replied, “I don’t doubt it Knuckles…the difference between you and me is I’m the one who caused my sadness.  Sonic didn’t do anything.  He was honest and tried his best to help me let go.  I’m the one who let it destroy me, foolishly thinking I had nothing left.  …You, you had your life ripped out from under you.  You had every reason to be sad, and yet you still moved forward.  You didn’t give up, like I did.”

   Knuckles shook his head, chuckling softly as he looked down to the ground below.  “I’m not invincible Amy; I act like I am.  It’s the strongest who do the best to hide what weaknesses they do have.  To be honest, the child who lost his family and kindred is still there.  He’s still afraid that he’ll have nothing left in the morning.  He knows something bad has happened and doesn’t know if he’ll ever make it out alive.  And yet, when he wakes up in the morning, and sees everyone dead around him, and he feels he has nothing left, he looks up, and sees the great jewel of his people survived the night with him.  After he’s cried enough, and believe me, he cried for awhile, he does his best to honor the fallen, even though he is only a child.  Once he’s laid them to rest, he returns his attention to his only companion.  As he tries to learn of its charms, he begins to wonder why they survived.  Even after his home is back where it belongs and he’s found some purpose, he wonders.  Why did they survive?  Why not his father?  Why not his mother?  Why did he survive to control the Master Emerald and live alone?”

   Amy felt tears forming in her eyes as she clasped her hands over her mouth, watching with her breath clenched still as she listened to him, her eyes never leaving his face and his violet eyes.  Finally, he looked back to her, smiling weakly and continued, “And you know something Amy?  He realized…he would never find an answer to his question.  He decided, he would have to do his best to see past what tried to bring him down, even if it meant hiding this weaker, gentler side to the world, and wait to see what his purpose was.  Already, we’ve seen the need for the Master Emerald, and thus, a Guardian to control it.  Sure, my father could have done this, but, I think you all were better with a peer, someone you could drag along on adventures and convince to lend you their power.  Heh, I doubt the echidnas would be keen on the things I’ve done with the Master Emerald, even if it was worth it in the end every time.”  Laughing softly, Knuckles returned his gaze to the horizon and added, “I survived, not just to stay here and look after the Master Emerald, but because there are those who need me.  I don’t think life can ever work out how we want it.  There’s a reason we’re not in control of it.  The power that watches over us knows better.  What I do know Amy, is as long as we’re still alive, we have a reason to keep going.  We still have a reason to smile.”

   Looking back to her, he took one of her hands and held it, patting it gently.  “What that means Amy, is just because we can’t understand why things turn out the way they do, and we lose sight of the road before us for awhile, doesn’t mean that we should give up.  There’s nothing wrong with mourning a little, even I did.  What’s important, is that you don’t let it take over your life.”

   Amy looked at his hands as they held hers, before looking up to his face, right at the same time that he returned his gaze to hers.  They both let out a soft gasp, looking to the side for a moment, before Amy let out a giggle and said, “That’s exactly what I let happen to me.  …I can’t believe I let something so stupid hurt me.  I’m pretty pathetic, moping and worrying my friends for over a year after annoying them in the years before by obsessing constantly over the very thing I got upset about.  There are people going through real pain every day that handle it better than me.”

   “Aww Amy, don’t look at it like that,” Knuckles said.

   Gently pulling her hand away from his grasp, Amy stood up, looking in the direction of Station Square as she said, “You dealt with losing your family, everything you ever knew, as a little kid, better than I handled Sonic rejecting me.  I shouldn’t even say that he rejected me.  He was as nice about it as he could be.  I’ve acted like such a fool.  I can’t believe this.”

   Jumping to his feet, Knuckles stood beside her, looking in the same direction as she for a moment, before looking back to her and saying, “Stop it Amy.  Don’t upset yourself again now that you’ve found happiness.  You are no fool.  You had your heart broken.  Even if you were a little obsessive over it, you still loved him.  Okay, maybe it wasn’t true love like you thought it was, but…I know you’ll find it someday.  Point is, I don’t think a broken heart is any easier to get over than a wounded spirit.  To be honest, I cried just about every day for two years after I lost my parents.  Once I got Angel Island into the sky again, I forced myself to toughen up.  I decided that in order to avoid feeling that sadness again, I’d simply hide any links to that side of my soul.  That’s why I’m so…gruff I guess.  I don’t want to hurt again.  You did better than I did.  At least you’re not going to live in depression for another year before closing off your heart to everyone afterwards.”

   The echidna had lowered his eyes, gazing in the direction of his old village, his eyes somber and soft as if what they saw pained him in every way imaginable.  Amy looked on sadly, thinking over all that was said.  Instead of trying to console him, Amy wrapped her arms around him and quickly, but gently, pulled him into a hug, even as he faced away from her.  This startled him, but he relaxed as he listened to her speak, resting her head on his back as she did.

   “You…you would have pulled out of it quicker than me or anyone I know Knuckles.  The only reason I’m happy again is because I…I had you to pull me back.  You didn’t have anybody to help you.  You got through it by yourself.  Heaven knows what would have happened to me if you hadn’t reached out to try and help me.  It’s…it’s not fair…what happened to you.  I got what I had coming to me.  You…you didn’t deserve this,” her voice trailed off into silence.  Knuckles could feel tears soaked up by his fur where her head rested.

   Knuckles felt paralyzed by shock.  He felt so many emotions at once he couldn’t pick one out to nurse before trying to console Amy.  And yet, he felt a smile creep to his lips as he turned around slowly, wrapping his arms around Amy to maintain the hug as they shifted where they stood.  She looked up at him, and holding on to his smile, he replied, “The important thing now Amy, is not whether or not we got what we deserved.  What’s important, is to do the best with what we’re given, do our best to move on, and be thankful for it all.”

   As tears fell from her eyes, Amy gazed at him, her faced painted with wonder and awe.  Unable to speak, she simply lowered her head, resting it on his chest as she leaned into the hug.  Knuckles supported her weight as they stood together, rubbing her back to try and soothe her.

   Finally, a voice escaped her lips in a soft whimper.  “You’re…you’re right Knuckles.  I’ll…I’ll do my best, like you have.”

   The echidna laughed softly.  “That’s all you’ve got to do Amy.  It got me this far, and it’ll help you too.  Your friends will be here for you as well.  I…always will.”

   Looking up to him once more, Amy gazed into his empathetic eyes, before smiling again, and saying, “We can be here for each other.”

   Knuckles smiled, and the two returned their attention to their embrace.  It seemed that Sonic’s faith in his friend was well-placed.  He wasn’t envisioning the trauma of Knuckles’ past allowing him to connect with Amy on that level of pain, but it was exactly what they all needed.

   Over the next few weeks, Amy began to heal.  She kept her apartment clean, started eating healthier, and pretty much picked up where she had left off.  She made regular trips to the beach, and even got back to shopping again.  After spending months watching television as she sat on the couch, or whatever could be done in her apartment, Amy was ready to make up for that time lost.  She was more than ready to live again.

   And yet this new life wasn’t merely a continuation of where she left off.  She and Knuckles, realizing they had more in common than they thought, began to spend more time together.  Because Knuckles couldn’t get away from Angel Island too often, especially with the ancient security system in need of a tune up and inspection, Amy made regular trips to see him, as many as four times a week.

   The more time they spent together, the more they opened up.  This was quite an experience for Knuckles, who said so himself that he had done his best to hide his sensitivity from everyone.  In a way akin to how Shadow would open up to Rouge, Knuckles opened up to Amy, telling her pretty much anything she wanted to know about him, trusting that she would keep it shared between their hearts, and withhold it from going further.  Some of the memories he shared with her were enough to bring him to tears; these were weaknesses any enemy of his would prey upon to break him down.  Nobody would ever believe this strong, tough and stubborn echidna could be brought to his knees because of his painful past.  Amy loved this side of him, and did her best to comfort him.  They both knew there was nothing wrong with reflection.  Though you may weep, you’re stronger for it, and sometimes, sharing your suffering with a friend made it that much easier to bear.

   That was certainly the case for Amy, who tried to understand why her love for Sonic had spiraled into such an obsession, that even drove her crazy to remember.  She recalled falling for him when he had saved her as a child, long before she even knew Knuckles, or any of them.  She couldn’t remember one moment when it turned into her following Sonic around like a stalker.  After Knuckles laughed, remembering how much stress she caused Sonic, he put joking aside, and reasoned that Sonic was her hero, and like a lot of girls might do for their favorite actor or singer, she fantasized about them ending up together, and because of her fighting spirit and determination, was willing to do whatever it took to make it happen.

   No matter the reason, Amy told him she was just glad it was over now, and that she hoped that Sonic and Blaze were happy.

   Still, after nearly two months, Amy found herself troubled again.  She didn’t know why, for she had been happier than ever over those past weeks.  She and Knuckles spent so much time together.  He even consented to go shopping with her one afternoon, ending with them getting ice cream and walking on the beach together as the stars came out and the moon rose above them.  They had learned so much about each other, and even themselves.  Life around them just played in the background.  They lived in their own world, one where only they existed, and nothing could hurt them again.

   And yet, she was bothered by something.  As she walked home from the grocery store, she tried to figure out what was bothering her.  It definitely wasn’t Sonic.  Though they still hadn’t heard from him, she didn’t care.  He was obviously with Blaze and was happy again.  What else could there be to trouble her?

   “I just don’t know.  It stinks when something bothers you and you can’t even be sure of what it is,” Amy said as she walked, “Maybe I’ll ask Knuckles about it.”

   “Ask Knuckles?  Ask him about what?” a voice asked.

   Amy looked to her right and saw Rouge was now walking beside her, with Shadow to her right, his arms folded as he walked.

   “Hey Rouge!  Hey Shadow!” Amy said cheerfully.

   Shadow looked in her direction, used to this kind of reply from her, even if it hadn’t been heard in a long time.  He casually waved one hand and said, “Hey,” in reply.

   Rouge also recognized the change and asked, “My, my Amy.  What’s with the sudden change in demeanor?  Last time we saw you I didn’t think you could sink any lower.  Now it’s like you’re walking on air…and what does Knuckles have to do with any of this?”

   Amy laughed and said, “I know it’s weird Rouge, but…that night, after you all left, well, it’s a long story.”

   Rouge looked, seeing a boardwalk restaurant up ahead, and replied, “Well, you’ve got time don’t you?  Why don’t you tell me and Shadow what happened?  Maybe we can help you with this problem you’ve got.”

   “That sounds like a great idea!” Amy said.

   Shadow rolled his eyes and said, “Perfect, I’m thrilled.”

   As Amy entered the building, Rouge said, “Come on Shadow.  I know you miss the dark and depressed Amy, but we told Sonic we’d help her.  Just because she’s turned it around doesn’t mean we should pass up the chance to help.  You owe Sonic at least once don’t you?”

   As Rouge followed Amy, Shadow growled and muttered, “He used up that favor when you two took me shopping!  That was the most awful experience ever!  …Wait a minute…since I don’t owe him, I can help out Amy, and he’ll owe me a favor!” A grin returned to Shadow’s face, and as he entered the restaurant, he chuckled, “Heh, I’ll make sure to find the perfect way for him to make it up to me.”

   While Shadow had other motives in mind, both he and Rouge had lunch with Amy, listening to her story of how Knuckles had reached out to her, and told them about how she was able to start living her life again, the way she wanted to, doing what made her happy.  She told them that she let go of Sonic, finally able to understand what influenced her to go after him like she did.  Keeping secret what their conversations were about, Amy told them how talking about their fears helped her and Knuckles cope with their pasts.  Everything was so wonderful now that she and Knuckles had strengthened their friendship, and now were able to support each other.

   “Everything is perfect now.  I’ve never been happier.  I think Knuckles is happier too.  I know now that even if things don’t work out how they should, everything will be alright anyway,” Amy exclaimed.

   Shadow, who rested his head on the table out of boredom and annoyance, let a growl escape him as he waved his hand in the air above his head and muttered, “And he carried you off to his magical castle in the clouds and you both lived happily ever after.  Yeah, yeah, ugh!”  Raising his head, he added, “When is the wedding?  Where are you two registered?  My word, are there any other ways you wish to illustrate your romance?  Shall I get a pair of mimes and a sheet to help you?”

   “Alright big guy, relax,” Rouge said, patting Shadow on the shoulder, holding back a laugh.  “It’s over now, so chill,” she added, kissing him on the cheek.

   Only because Rouge was there did Shadow lower his arms and let out a sigh.  He ate the last of the fries on his plate, before standing up and saying, “I don’t care about doing favors for Sonic anymore.  I listened to the story, and I think it’s best if you give the advice Rouge.  As for me, I need some air.  Ugh…”  Shadow then left the restaurant and sat on a bench on the opposite side of the boardwalk.

   Rouge let out a sweet sigh.  That was her Shadow, well, the one that the rest of the world knew.  She knew on the inside that he wanted to help, but today just wasn’t one of those days.  Returning her attention to Amy, she saw the pink hedgehog gazing at her hands, which she cradled in her lap, her eyes plagued with disbelief.

   “Hey Amy, what’s wrong?  You look pretty disturbed…don’t let Shadow get to you.  He’s just having one of those days…,” Rouge explained.

   Looking up at Rouge, Amy asked, “Does it…does it really sound like we’re dating Rouge?  Is that why Shadow said those things?  Even if he is in a bad mood, which he usually always is anyway, why would he say those things unless that’s what it sound like?”  Amy looked out the window, where she could see Shadow sitting on a bench, and Angel Island floating near the coast in the distance.  “Is this what’s bothering me?  But…why would it?  I—I don’t understand…,” Amy started.

   “Amy, if you want my honest opinion, it was beginning to sound like you two are an item,” Rouge started.  Amy quickly looked back to her, and so she continued, “The story began with him carrying you home and cleaning your apartment.  Sure, he could have done that to try and cheer you up.  Heck, Shadow went to an uncomfortable length to try to do the same, but still, I can’t see Knuckles cleaning house for just anyone, even to cheer them up.  You must mean something more to him than just a friend.  I can’t see him opening up to anyone short of a girlfriend, and even then I could barely see it.  Do you think if he and I were dating that he’d tell me the secrets of his heart?  No way…he’d be too worried that we’d break up and I’d have something to use against him.  I do place a high value on jewels and juicy information for blackmail after all.”

   The pink hedgehog looked frozen.  She did not speak, and so Rouge sighed and added, “He must really, and I mean really trust you.  He trusts you enough to tell you stuff that could destroy him if used against him in an attack, stuff I could use if I were still interested in stealing the Master Emerald.  He’s either let his guard down, letting himself be weakened by your sadness and an empathetic heart, or he thinks you two will be together forever, and so he won’t have to worry about you betraying him.”

   “But…but couldn’t I just be a really good friend?  What if it was a brother/sister like bond?” Amy asked.

   Rouge gave Amy a look and said, “I’ve seen friends from childhood stab each other in the back Amy.  I’ve seen brothers and sisters, twins even, do the same.  Now, I’m not saying that two who fall in love have never fallen apart, but out of those three bonds, which one do you think he’ll put the most faith in?  If it’s true love, what would he have to be afraid of?  Even if you don’t feel that way, he obviously loves you enough to take that chance and bide his time.  Again, I can’t see him cleaning house for anyone; even if he had a sister I don’t think he’d do it for her.  If he wanted to cheer you up he could have taken you home and stayed with you until morning.  No, he saw your apartment and felt terrible for you.  That concern’s just evolved, and from the way it sounds, I can’t see him letting go of it, whether you return it or not.  With that attitude he’s taken, he’s opened up his heart, but won’t let it destroy him if the path he’s walking takes a turn.  If I were you Amy, I’d go ahead and get it cleared up so you can get back to that friendship.”

   As Rouge stood up to leave, Amy felt a tear roll down her cheek.  She tried to take in everything Rouge said before she replied, but saw Rouge had already left her half of the tip and bill and had left the restaurant.  Quickly throwing her money on the table and grabbing her groceries, Amy ran outside calling after her.

   “Rouge!  Shadow!  Please wait!” she cried.

   Shadow, who had just risen to his feet, growled and said, “Oh no, why?!” Throwing his hands up in the air he added, “I’m gonna make sure Sonic pays for this big time.  Grr…”

   “It’s okay Shadow,” Rouge said.  Turning to Amy, she asked, “What is it now Amy?  I gave you my advice.  What else do you want?”

   Sitting her groceries down and trying to catch her breath, Amy shook her head and said, “You…you don’t understand Rouge.  I never said I didn’t feel the same way about Knuckles that he does about me.”

   Rouge and Shadow looked at each other.  “Then why on earth are we having this conversation?  Take your stuff home and go tell the stubborn thing.  Lord knows with his stubborn streak it’ll take him years to tell you if he feels the same unless you tell him first!” Shadow exclaimed.

   Amy lowered her eyes, closing them to keep any more tears from falling, though she was failing miserably.  “I’m…I’m sorry Shadow.  I didn’t mean to upset you…it’s just…I don’t know if I can tell him.”

   Shadow’s eyes softened when he heard this.  Both he and Rouge could hear Amy start to cry, and as Shadow walked her over to the bench and they sat beside her, he said, “No, it’s okay Amy…I’m…I…I apologize for shouting.  It’s just one of those days…I guess.”  He paused, he and Rouge exchanging glances, before he added, “But why can’t you tell him?  You just said you felt the same about him, what’s so hard about saying it?  Heaven knows you preached your love for blue boy everywhere you went.”

   “Shadow,” Rouge said, “Maybe we should stay away from that subject.”

   “Can I help it if it’s true?” Shadow asked.

   Rouge sighed, but before she could speak, Amy stomped her foot and said, “No!  It’s because I never really loved Sonic.  What I felt for him was a silly girlhood crush spun out of proportions.  It’s easier to lie than to tell the truth about some things, and this is one of them.”

   “They say it’s the hardest thing to say…that you love someone.  It’s right up there with asking for help, and telling someone you’re sorry.  I still struggle with those two, although, telling Rouge I love her flows so easy off the tongue I don’t consider it hard to say anymore,” Shadow explained.

   “That’s true Shadow, but when it comes to the first time telling someone you love how you feel is one of the hardest things to do.  It wasn’t exactly easy for us,” Rouge replied.

   Amy looked at them, still crying and asked, “What are you talking about?  Everyone knew you two loved each other!  I think it was the love you two had that made my ranting about Sonic easy to overlook.  How was it hard for you two?”

   Shadow laughed and said, “That may be true.  I think what Rouge is saying is we never came out and said ‘I love you’ even when we both clearly felt that way enough to where everyone could see.  We’d say it in other ways.  She promised me she’d always be there for me.  I promised her I’d go beyond the ends of existence for her.  I didn’t actually use the words ‘I love you’ to say it until not that long ago.”

   “What happened?” Amy asked.

   Rouge let out a nervous laugh and said, “That’s not important Amy.  Of course, when he did say it, he said it as if they were the only words he knew, with such confidence…such passion…”

   “Err, yes,” Shadow interrupted, tugging at his neck.  “I guess you can’t compare us saying it the first time to Amy and Knuckles saying it because you and I had already said it enough, we just…avoided those three words.”

   Amy looked between them and said, “Well, a lot of help you two are.”  Sniffing, she held her hands over her face and continued, “No, I’m sorry.  You’re doing your best.  I just…I don’t know what to do.  I’m so confused.  I know I’m not making this feeling up, but…how did it come up so fast?”

   Looking to the ocean, Shadow said, “True love knows no boundaries, including time.  Two months is a long time…but I believe, that souls that are meant to be together, when they reunite, the love flocks to them.  It takes next no time to blossom.  You and Knuckles just didn’t get the chance for this to happen because Sonic was in the way.  The very day he leaves, the very moment you come together, look what happens.  If this had happened three years ago you’d meet the same fate.  You simply had to get rid of Sonic to make room in your heart for Knuckles.  There was no way he could have opened up to you or you to him with that false love for Sonic leading you astray.  It makes perfect sense if you step back and look at it that way Amy.  It was not time that was the hindrance; it was Sonic.  Now that he’s let you go, you’re free to find true love.”

   In that moment, Amy was hit with a wave of emotions.  It often took time to get a good word out of Shadow, but he had made this statement the words she needed to understand a bit of what was troubling her.  Part of the healing process was furthered when she realized that Sonic had let go of her like he did so she could be free to find the kind of love he had found in Blaze.  If Shadow was right, this was what allowed this love for Knuckles to take off, even in this short time.  And yet, something bothered her.

   Looking to Shadow, she asked, “But…how can I know that Knuckles is my true love?”

   Shadow glanced at her, and then Rouge before he replied, “You can never know.”

   “Huh?” Amy asked.

   Standing up, Shadow said, “We’ll never know for certain.  You can’t look at two people and say, ‘Oh, they’re meant to be.’  Now, I’ve known people with special powers who claim they can hear the song our souls sing and the ones that sing together are soul mates, but they’ve also told me they believe it’s better to trust your heart and the heart of the one you love.  However, seeing how you’re reacting to all this gives me the idea that what you have here is true love.  The way you’re weeping now.  You’re so worried about it, not because you’re unsure of it, but because you care about it, and him, a great deal, and either want to make sure this is for real, or don’t want to ruin it somehow.”

   Rouge patted Amy on the back and said, “I think this is for real Shadow.  I don’t think she needs much more persuasion.”

   Sitting back down, Shadow replied, “No, I think she does.  Even if she trusts the love enough to know it’s there, she still doesn’t know if she can tell him or not.  She doesn’t trust it enough.”

   “Stop it!” Amy cried.  Jumping to her feet, she grabbed her groceries and shouted, “I…I love Knuckles!  I just…I can’t tell him!  I just…I don’t think I can.  He…he needs somebody who can really be there for him and take care of him…I don’t know if I can do it!  The last thing I want is to break his heart like Sonic broke mine!  I…I just can’t, I won’t!  I…I don’t know what to do!”

   With that, Amy ran off, heading for her apartment, leaving Shadow and Rouge behind.  Rouge was stunned, while Shadow gazed at the people on the beach as if he was bored.  Rouge said, “Poor Amy.  We should do something to help her.  …Shadow?”

   Shadow looked to Rouge and said, “Another favor for Sonic…boy, he’s gonna be up to his eyeballs in debt when he gets back.”

   As Shadow stood up, Rouge asked, “Are you really doing this just so Sonic will owe you a favor Shadow?”

   Rouge stood up and looked to Shadow.  The black and red hedgehog took her hand and said, “Nah, I just like messing with him.”  Watching the distance as Amy finally disappeared, Shadow added, “We’ll just have to tell Knuckles for her.  Then, he’ll feel better about saying something, and he can tell her without her even knowing we got the ball rolling.”

   Tugging on Rouge’s hand, the couple started to walk in the direction of Angel Island.  Rouge asked, “But Shadow?  How can we be sure that Knuckles really feels that way about her?  We could be way off here.  It won’t be the first time Knuckles has been accused of something only to deny it.”

   As they walked, Shadow replied, “I know he cares about her.  There’s no denying that.  Even if he doesn’t love her, when he finds out how she feels, he’ll return the feelings…if not right away, but gradually.”

   “I just hope that’s not what we did with Amy.  I hope you talking about them getting married didn’t awake false feelings in her,” Rouge replied.

   With a grin on his face, Shadow replied, “She loves him.  That’s what was bothering her.  She’s never felt true love before so she didn’t know how to react.  She treasures that friendship so much…it’s enough for her.  She doesn’t have to put love into it in order to make it important to her.  She was overcome when she realized that’s how she really feels about him.  It means that much to her…it drove her to tears.  If I had awoken false feelings I wouldn’t have gotten that reaction.  Trust me.”

   They walked in silence after this, and yet Shadow thought, “Poor girl.  After what happened with Sonic, she just wants to make sure she doesn’t break Knuckles’ heart.  That’s true love.  I think at last, she’s understanding what love really is.  I’ll be dammed if I thought it would take that echidna to do it.  …I hope they can make it work.  Rouge and I have to help.  If Amy can’t tell him…we will.”