Just One Night [THE FINAL CHAPTER-20-IS UP!]

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/4/2010, 11:55 pm

Just One Night

Maturity - Heavy Romance & Drinking.
Fantasy - None.

CHECK THE 2nd POST FOR CHAPTER 15+

Chapter 1 -

I threw my graduation cap into the air, looking at the ocean of navy blue hats that had joined mine. Finally, the hardest part of my life was through. However, in just four months the hardest part of my life was going to start... "Hey, Jason, you com'n to the party?" I heard a voice and turned to see Paul. "Nah man, I have to go catch a flight," I shrugged, waiting for him to bug me about it. "Oh, gotta little cutey waiting for you?" his eyebrows raised as he winked. "Yeah, right," I chuckled, my eyes rolling. "'Kay, well see you in four months!" he called as I left.

I had just graduated from West Point and already was running to catch my flight to California, where I had to catch my best mate's wedding, Dave Ridgeway. He was marrying a pretty, but kind of old fashioned, brunette named Cadie Jones. And I had to be there, since I was one of his best men.

Boarding the plane, I made it in just as they were about to close the gate, and I silently prayed for my unusual luck. I'd need a lot of that when I would be eligible for being stationed to Afghanistan in three months. I had heard stories of some guys being called the day they were eligible, while some had never even been called at all. Having no one to live for, and no one to go to, I was hoping to be called up pretty soon. I just didn't know what I was going to do in these three months...

Arriving at the station, I got my luggage around the conveyer belt that snaked around for hours, and whistled for a taxi. "Santa Catalina dock," I said, clicking my seat belt. "Alrighty," the gruff man spoke with a raspy tone, his voice hardly over a whisper. "Smoker," I commented in my mid, looking out the window. Everything in California seemed so... Alive. "Thanks," I said, tossing a twenty at him as I left, my bag dragging against the floor.

From there I boarded a small boat, when I saw someone whose beauty struck me. And there, sitting in front of me, was the most gorgeous girl I'd ever seen. She was lean with a head full of peach-blonde curls and these amazing hazel eyes. Her eyes were the kind that you saw on the cover of magazines - too real to be true. They were mostly brown with a heavy dark outline, an emerald green flexes across it, and a dark jade border. They were soft but intriguing at the same time, while she seemed to have an alluring aura around her; as if she was in her own little fantastic world. She laughed, but it was more of a played out, forced, laugh, directed to a guy beside her.

The guy looked like a complete rear-end. His smile was cocky and had a greedy tinge to his beady eyes. His hand slowly slid up her thigh, as she pinched it like a tissue, and dropped it to his side. The look he gave her was confused and I could see aggression beneath that. He nudged closer to her, putting his arm around her waist, as she wiggled out of his grasp. I stood up, my jaw tightening, as I walked over. What was I doing?! "Excuse me," I said, raising an eyebrow with a you-better-knock-it-off-unless-you-want-to-start-some-trouble look, "is there a problem?" I was still wearing my military shirt, my hair trimmed to a buzz cut. And the training I had done in the last four years paid off, with a muscular body. Not to be too smug...

"Who the -better refference for a word 'heck'- are you?" he asked me. "Do you really wanna find out?" I asked, as he nervously looked over at the girl. "Whatever, I'll be at the top, Lindsay," the guy said, cracking under pressure as he scampered off. I looked over at the girl - she was split between shocked, amused, and irritated, her mouth slightly tilted open. Having nothing to say, I went to go and sit down. Maybe I was out of line - but maybe I didn't care. And that's when I heard her voice, loud and clear, as she gasped, "Wait!"

Chapter 2 -

I sat beside my sad-excuse-for-a-date, crossing my fingers that a shark would jump up and pull him overboard. However, what I got instead was much, much better... I saw a color, it was bright blue and flashing like a light, but when I looked up all I saw was a man in front of me, probably in his early 20's. I thought I was hallucinating, but when he looked up to meet my gaze, I froze.

"Hottttttt," I whispered breathlessly. He had these amazing robin’s egg blue eyes with the softest touch of serenity to them, if not a small dash of humor. He had this rich dark brown hair that was cut into a buzz and his West Point Shirt, along with his muscular arms, told me that he was a graduate from West Point. Or had been in the army already. Or something. I didn't really know much about any of that kind of thing.

"I know I am," John, my date, whispered back, trying to be cool by running his hand up my thigh. I rolled my eyes, dropping his hand at his side. However, the ambitious little boy wouldn't give up. He wrapped a scrawny arm around me, pinching my waist. He was two years older than me, him being twenty, but I knew in a fight between us I'd most likely win. And I don't know about most people, but for me that was enough to send me running. However, his arrogant personality made me wonder why I hadn't jumped off the boat myself.

"Quit it out," I growled, my lips smashed together and my voice in such a low, stern, state that it hardly looked like I was talking. I reminded myself of a mother trying to politely, but fiercely, scold her child without wanting to make a scene.

He opened his mouth to protest, but instead his breath was interrupted by another voice. "Excuse me, is there a problem?" I heard the gorgeous-blue-eyed man ask and I looked up, fear in my eyes, as I realized he was talking to John. My heart did a cartwheel in excitement, but then it sunk to the floor when I was reminded what was actually going on.

The blue-eyed man was probably some hot-short amateur who felt threatened by John and therefore was going to come over and try to be macho man. Then, when his superman title was fulfilled he'd try to hit on me. I rolled my eyes, as they squabbled. But half a second later John was scampering off, already halfway across the boat.

The corner of my mouth raised in humor, as I wondered how he had done that. My cheeks were flushed as if I were shocked, and just as I was about to give him an icy glare, he turned to walk off. "Wait!" I thought to myself, but instead my voice spoke out. Why had I just said that?! My pressed my lips together, as he turned around. Why hadn't he hit on me? Why hadn't he just pulled a typical guy move?

"Um, I'm Lindsay," I looked down at the ground, my cheeks reddening. His eyes were so intimidating and I was afraid that if I looked at them directly I'd melt under the pressure, and then become a complete dithering fool. "Jason," he returned, though that was all he said. I felt like I had to speak up, because I was too afraid that he might walk away again, "Are you here for a wedding?" He nodded his head, leaning against the side of the ship and looking calmly at me. "How about you?" he asked.

"How does he look so... so... yummy?" I thought to myself, realizing he had spoken as I focused my full attention on him. "Um," I thought for a moment, "Yes." "Are you sure?" he teased, the corner of his mouth rising into a cocky grin, since I hadn't sounded oh-so-sure. I rolled my eyes, though I couldn't hold back the smile on my mouth. I felt so uncomfortable here, so I stood up to go and walk over, but instead the boat stopped and I went flying forward. I was a good ten feet away from him, but in an instant he was at me, holding me, saving me, protecting me...

He put me back on my feet and all I could do was stare at him. "Maybe he's not like every guy," my mind started thinking, as I realized he had held my hand a little too long for it to be casual. "Have a nice trip, Lindsay," he smiled, through his eyes and lips, walking off the ship. And the second he was gone, John took his place. "What was up with that guy?" he rolled his eyes as I realized I would never see Jason again. And that's what sucked the most.

Chapter 3 - (Jason's P.O.V.)

I was so tempted to turn around and "pull a Lindsay" by shouting "Wait!" and then asking for her number. But, I knew that would lead to no where. Except 'that guy' having a fit and me getting too involved with someone else. I couldn’t live for someone, I couldn't even have the slightest of feelings for someone, because I knew then I'd have to leave those feelings behind, and that would be harder than going to Afghanistan.

So, getting off the boat and leaving her and her 'boy'-friend behind, I was quick to find the guy I had been waiting for - Mark, the "taxi" man. Except, in this case taxis were little two or three person boats.

Apparently, he had been expecting me, because without any questions he took off towards the shore of Avalon. On one way, I thought this trip would be all fun and games so it wouldn't matter if I had a little 'fun' beforehand. Then, that would be using girls, which I was strongly against. I was more, er, respectable then most guys I guess. Or maybe I just had a bigger conscious than most guys.

The second we pulled to the shore I could see my old friend, David Ridgeway, who hadn't changed a bit. "Hey man," he called as we did that bro-hug-one-handed thing where we pulled each other in. I could see the Chapel off in the distance, and it was about 200 yards from the ocean. But the strange part was that we were so far away from the Chapel. "Hey. Did I miss anything?" I asked, an apologetic smile on my face. "You'll catch on," he shrugged, and he must've noticed my curiosity because he piped in, "Cadie doesn't want footprints on the sand."

"Ah," I nodded, though I knew that was a typical Cadie thing. I had only briefly met her once, four years ago, and on the outside she seemed collective and faker than plastic. But beneath it, I could easily see that she was sly, controlling, and manipulative. Not to forget that her relationship with David seemed nothing more than a well thought out game of checkers. But, that was a while ago, so I was hoping she hadn't changed.

Walking into the door, I was instantly blasted with shouting, chatting, and in often cases laughter. "Jason! You're here!" Cadie instantly clapped her hands together, her fingers entwining. "Finally," I heard her mutter under her breath just a moment later, as a smirk rolled onto my face and I resisted the urge to snicker.

"Look, you're going to be the first best man. So, when you're told to, you'll walk through the door with your date, my sister, and you'll stand at the right, behind Dave, and my sister will go to the left. Alright? Alright." she patted my shoulder, walking off. I just didn't see how it was going to work for them - but they were getting married, so at least she was committed... One part of my mind said maybe the marriage was to benefit herself, but another part told me she was just stressed out from the wedding-planning.

That's something I've never understood. Why did girls get so hectic and crazed during their wedding planning? Wasn't it supposed to be the happiest time of their life? So, why did every last bit of it have to be perfect? Is the happiest part of your life supposed to be perfect, because everyone knows that the rest of your marriage is not going to be perfect.

My thought was interrupted by 'it's' voice, as Cadie called for me to line up at the end of the aisle. So, getting in place, I didn't pay much attention to the girls who were eagerly lining up beside us. They were mostly giggling or gossiping, except for the girl to the left of me. I could see her turn to look at me, though I didn't meet her eyes. "Jason?!" I heard a startled voice gasp and I turned to see the peach-blonde hair of Lindsay, the girl who I was supposed to escort down the aisle.

Chapter 4 - Lindsay.

Smoothing down my blue, yellow, pink, and green floral sundress from Hollister, I got to the front of the line, trying my best to ignore the other girls. I wasn't much of a fan for girls(except for my close group of friends), which is why most of my friends were guys. I even hated my sister; I knew that was wrong to say, but I couldn't help it. Especially when I was her first-bride's maid.

That reminded me that I'd have to be escorted by one of my soon-to-be-brother-in-law's best friends. I had already met most of them and they were all the same - air headed with dull personalities. Hopefully this 'Jason' guy, the guy Dave had been going on and on about for the last week, would be different. Jason... My heart sunk. I had only temporarily met him; why did I have such a connection to him? "At least I get to be away from my date," I thought to myself, sighing.

I slightly glanced over at this 'Jason' kid, not expecting much. That's when I saw the same flash of Turquoise blue as before. "Jason?!" I gasped, my head spinning in circles. "The one and only," he replied, looking down at me with surprise and humor etched into his face. "Did you follow me here?" I hissed under my breath, my mind slowly putting it all together. "No, I'm here for my best friend's wedding... Why are you here?" he frowned in amusement, as we had the cue to walk down.

I stumbled forward, trying to keep my balance. "Wait, you're Jason Parker?" I asked and he nodded his head. "He's the army hero? The guy who Dave had described to be so... Perfect?" I thought to myself, but looking back at it, I wasn't sure why I was so surprised. He was perfect, in every last way. And I wasn't one to throw the word 'perfect' around. "And I'm the bride's sister, thank you very much," I stopped to answer, as the girl beside me bumped into me. "Sorry," I mumbled an apology, walking faster to catch up with him, however he had also stopped. His eyes were wide, but he shook his head and continued to walk forward. "What...?" I asked him, curious as to why he stopped.

"Nothing, it's nothing," he shook his head, as we were at the end. "What? You don't trust me?" I taunted him, raising an eyebrow and pursing my lips. "No, it's just-" he was cut off by the sound of Cadie.

"Alright, that was horrible," she snapped, walking up to us. "Stop talking to my sister. Do you want me to change your spot?" she growled. "No!" I quickly protested and even I was surprised by my outburst. "I-I mean it was my fault. I was helping him along the way," I was quick to blurt out an excuse. "Well, apparently you didn't do it very well," her eyes fixed on me, deepening into a glare.

"My wedding is in two days. And if you can't get it right, neither of you will be a part of it," she threatened, as Dave walked up behind her. "Okay, honey, let's take a break," he suggested, his hands on her shoulders. "Alright Davey Boo." she pouted, walking away with him. "Gag," I mumbled under my breath as Jason broke out in laughter. I looked up at him, an embarrassed smile on my face.

He looked back down at me and my smile slowly disappeared. My lips decided to have a mind of their own and slightly puckered, though in my mind I screamed to cut it out. I looked away, not wanting to make it awkward, as he spoke. "Hey, wanna get a drink tonight, at the party?" he asked and I thought about it for a second. I was supposed to be taking dancing lessons, something my sister had requested, and we were both supposed to be at the chapel by six a.m. to continue our rehearsal. "Um, I have a few things to work passed, but I think I can around to it," I nodded my head. "Alright," he nodded, half-smiling as he walked off. And just like that, he was gone. Again.

Chapter 5 - Jason

We chatted as we walked up the aisle. I was a bit smug that she knew me as Dave's best friend; but who wouldn't be? "And I'm the bride's sister, than you very much," she rose her head proudly and I stopped, holding up the line. SHE was the girl that Dave had been trying to hook me up? SHE was the girl I was supposed to be introduced to at the bar tonight? My head spun. "How did I not get that? I was supposed to walk down the aisle with the bride's sister," I thought to myself, guessing that it just hadn't registered.

"What?" she asked me. "Nothing, it's nothing," I said a little too quickly, shaking my head. "What, you don't trust me?" she asked. Why wouldn't I trust her? I started coming up with an excuse as Cadie came up and yelled at me. I zoned out, just nodding my head to whatever she said, until she threatened to change my position. "No!" Cadie gasped and an amused smiled shrunk onto my face, as she tried to cover it up.

Dave came over to cam her down and she left with him, like a sticky leech. "Gag," I mumbled as Cadie laughed. And then it was completely quiet, except for Cadie's sucking up to Dave. Completely. All of the other Bridesmaids and Best Men stared at us, blinking like clueless goldfish. "So, wanna get a drink tonight at the party?" I asked her as she used the old 'I'll check my schedule' move. Or something like that. "Alright," I smiled and with nothing to say, walked off.

The two hours between the party seemed to fly by. I checked into my beach house, which was connected to Cadie's, a locked door in between the two. Taking a shower, I changed into a navy blue shirt, a jacket, and jeans. Just something simple; we were going to a bar after all.

Walking to the bar, it was less than half a mile away, I was feeling strangely calm. I certainly had a lot of opportunities, but never had I been in a serious relationship; nonetheless likes someone this much, without actually knowing them. I knew I was probably screwing myself over, but I didn't seem to care anymore. It was worth it. She was worth it...

I saw a couple in a blue jeep, heavily kissing. "Have some decency," I thought to myself. I had only glance slightly and the windows were tented, but the girl had a sea foam green top on, with blonde permed hair. "It almost looks like Cadie," I thought to myself, pushing through the doors of the bar. In fact, their hair did look strangely alike...

"Jason!" Dave called out, motioning us over. I sat on the bar stool beside him, looking around for Cadie, though her seat was missing. "Where's Catty?" I asked, purposefully mispronouncing her name. "Bathroom," he answered, as he got a weird look in his eyes. And every time he got that look I knew he was about to do something. "So, there's someone I wanted you to meet," he said, craning his neck to look over me.

"Lindsay, Dave. Dave, Lindsay," he said as I heard footsteps coming towards us. And there was Lindsay, in a red blouse. "Good. Couldn't have been her," I thought to myself. I turned over to see Lindsay. "Hello, again," I greeted her with a cheeky smile. "Wait. You two have already met?" Cadie stopped in her tracks, raising a brow with her mouth slightly tilted open. "Uh, yeah. On the boat here," Lindsay murmured, looking down. "Well, thanks for ruining the surprise," Cadie fake-smiled, sighed, and sat down. Lindsay sucked one side of her cheeks in, looking off to the side.

That's when I kind of had the chance to look at her. Her peach blonde hair was pulled into a bun on the side of her head, with some loose strands to make it look messy, but cute. Then her hazel eyes seemed more green right now, and her skin was darker than before. Maybe it was just the lighting. "Two bottles of Petrus," I ordered, a French wine, as I turned to Lindsay. "Wanna get out of here?" I offered, as we were handed the bottle along with two wine glasses. I slid my debit card over to him as she nodded her head. Picking up the glasses, we headed outdoors.

We didn't say anything, but we ended up sitting on the edge of the beach, on the slanted part right before where it got wet. "So, what's up with your sister?" I asked, noticing she had a beachy-luau dress on, with strings that tied around her neck. "She's just really stressed out," she nodded, but I knew she was holding back. And seeing how she was guzzling down her wine wasn't helping to prove her point at all.

"So," she said, her voice thick with sass looking up at the sky, "you're the hotshot army super hero with the perfect life who gets the perfect girls and sips the perfect wines." I looked at her amused smile, but under that there was pain. I didn't know what she had been through, I wasn't sure if I wanted to, but I knew that she was just saying this out of pure bitterness because her life hadn't gone the way she minded. And strangely, that made me feel more comfortable. "Nope. I'm the guy looking for redemption, so I joined the army," I answered.

"Okay, so you made a slip up, and thought everything would be better by being superman?" she asked me. "No. I hoped that I could finally forgive myself," I answered, propping myself up with my elbows. "What, am I not your type?" I smiled, truly amused. "How do you suppose I could decide when I hardly know your last name??" she asked me, having a well-thought point. "My favorite colors are blue and orange," I offered, curious to see how she reacted.

"You’re a lot different than I expected, Jason," she sighed, leaning against my shoulder. "Is that a good or bad thing?" I asked, the tide rising so that the water was lapping at our feet. I waited for an answer for a few seconds, but when I looked down and our eyes met, it was answered as we leaned in for a kiss in the sand.

Chapter 6 - Lindsay

His answer to the last question caught me off guard. Redemption? What had he done? Though, I continued on with the sassy act, trying my hardest to protect myself so I didn't blurt something I'd later regret. But finally I gave up on holding back on the temptation and was just kind of waiting for it to happen.

Looking over at him, he looked back at me and we just kind of froze. My breath caught and I could feel my heart seizing inside of my chest. It was just a second, but I felt like everything froze I leaned in a bit and he did the same, until I finally got impatient and kissed him. It only lasted a few seconds, but I could feel my knees getting wobbly. Thankfully I was laying down in the sand.

When it ended, I wasn't sure how to react. "I, uh, gotta go," I said, shuffling to my feet. "You sure?" he asked and I nodded me head. "Sorry!" I apologized, as I wobbled back to my beach house. My hands were still shaking as I fought to get the key in the lock.

Once I was finally inside, I collapsed against the back of the door, as I slowly slid to the floor. Combing my fingers through my hair, I screamed in excitement, an irreplaceable smile on my face, as I got ready for bed.

Chapter 7 - Jason

Right when our kiss ended she stood up and just walked off. She was a good kisser - though I didn't have much to compare it to. But still, there was something that made me feel so protective around her, so... I couldn't think of the word. But still, there was something there.

"Maybe she didn't think of me that way," I thought to myself, but I shook my head. That was nonsense. And even if it was true, then I'd just have to suck it up and move on with my life. It would be pretty easy, seeing how I was going to be shipped to Afghanistan soon. So, I just followed the path that I was supposed to follow.

Standing up, I went to go and say bye to Dave and the rest. Walking in, I found them still at the bar. "Hey, where'd ya go?" he asked me, as I looked back outside. "Oh, nothing, I just walked Lindsay home," I lied, though my face only showed traces of truth. "So... How was it?" he asked me, nudging me with his elbow. Dave was like a big puppy once you got to know him. "Uh, she's cool I guess," I shrugged, holding back on everything I really wanted to say about her.

She was funny, gorgeous, flawless, smart, confident, cute, entertaining, mysterious, a good kisser... I would have pages worth of stuff. "Don't worry, you just need a few days to let her grow on you," he promised me, disappoint in his eye. I wasn't sure if she wanted anyone to know, though, so I kept my mouth shut.

"I'm leaving in two days," I reminded him as he shrugged. "Dave, we should get going. Don't want to be tired for the big day," Cadie whispered, tickling his chin like he was a big dog. "I should get going," I told him, as he nodded understandingly. I saw a sea foam green shirt poke out from under Cadie's red blouse, but didn't think much of it.

When I got home I didn't hear any movement from Lindsay's bed, so I was guessing she was already asleep. And seconds after I collapsed on my bed, I was sound asleep, looking forward to the day ahead of me.

My dream was short and vague but it kept on reoccurring, and each time I got a better look at it. It was the couple making out in the car, the girl with the sea foam green top on, and then it switched over to Cadie leaning over in the bar, another shirt poking out from under her red one. A sea foam green shirt. And as I shot up in bed, it all came to me. I had to tell Dave...

Chapter 8 - Lindsay

I could hear Jason rumbling around in his room... What was he doing? Tomorrow was the wedding, it was no time for him to be clowning around and keeping me up. Then again, I could never sleep at a time like this. Then a thought hit me. Oh, if he had another girl in his room I was going to--

My thought was cut off when I heard his front door open. "Crap, what is he doing?!" I whispered to myself, slipping on a pear of sweats and heading out. "Jason!" I hissed, running over to him; my fuzzy purple slippers making the wood of the patio creek less. "Uh, I have to go tell Dave something.." he mumbled, though it was clear he was lying. Which was weird because normally he was a good liar; or at least from what I'd seen.

"Mhm... And what do you have to tell him?" I asked him, raising a brow. It looked like he'd just woken up and was a mess. Maybe he had a hangover, but I doubted it. He didn't drink too much wine... Or at least not from what I'd seen. "It's nothing," he shook his head, turning to leave.

I grabbed his arm, glad he had little effort, as I turned him so he was facing me. "Do you trust me?" I asked him, as he looked at me curiously. "What? That has nothing to do with-" he started arguing, but I put my hand over my mouth. "Do you trust me?" I repeated as he uneasily nodded his head. "Then tell me and I will come with you," I tried my best to get it out of him, but for some reason I didn't think he was going to budge.

"Cadie's cheating on Dave," He finally blurted, biting the inside of his cheek like he'd regret it. "What?!" I yelled, before he covered my mouth. Moving his hand, I whispered, "What? How do you know?!" He sighed, before opening his mouth to speak. "I saw a couple making out in a jeep a few blocks down from here and the girl looked just like her and-" I cut him off. "A lot of people have blonde curly hair! It could have been anyone!" I shrieked.

"Let me finish," he demanded, as I took a step backwards. "And she was wearing this green shirt. So when I went inside Dave was there but Cadie wasn't. And then later that night I saw Cadie with the same color shirt on under her red blouse..." he finished, acting like I was just supposed to believe him. Look, I knew Cadie wasn't the best person, and I hated her, but she wouldn't do that. Even if she was using Dave for his money, she still wouldn't be stupid enough to mess around with another guy. No. She couldn't...

"Are you like jealous or something? Dave told me you didn't like Cadie, but I mean, really... Trying to break off their wedding the day before?" I asked him, shaking my head, my eyes defensive and fixed into a glare. Who did he think he was? She was my sister. I think I'd know before anyone else... "What? No! I'm trying to keep my friend from making a stupid decission," he shot back, his voice sounding almost hurt. Whatever. "Yeah, right," I rolled my eyes. "Just go back to bed. I'm sure Dave is big enough of a boy to handle it by himself," I warned him, going back into my room. I didn't sleep, though, until I heard the door to his room shut once again.

Even if it was true, it wasn't any of his business. But as I fell asleep, I realized I really did trust Cadie more than I thought I had. Jason just didn't like her and he was probably seeing things, or lying to find an excuse for Dave not to marry her. "Jerk," I thought to myself, as I drifted off to sleep. And thankfully, Jason stayed out of my dreams.

Chapter 9 - Jason.

I couldn't believe it. She kept asking if I trusted her; why didn't she trust me? "She's in denial," I finally decided. She probably just couldn't believe that Cadie would do that... Was I the only one who WASN'T oblivious to her act?

I sighed in defeat, too tired to argue, so instead I stormed back into my bedroom. I'd deal with it in the morning, after I had a few hours to think about it. And strangely, I didn't have any trouble sleeping. Normally the smallest thing would keep me up, but...

I woke up the next day, feeling refreshed and prepared. I felt like I had just accomplished something - but this warm, satisfied, feeling was soon sucked out of me as I remembered the day ahead of me. Wedding day.

I groaned, wondering how I could forget, as I rushed to get dressed in my tuxedo, having some trouble with my tie. After a few minutes of struggling, I slipped a pair of shoes on and dashed out the door, full speed towards the Chapel. "Where were you!" Cadie screamed across the chapel. "YOU'RE EIGHT MINUTES LATE! WE'RE NEVER GOING TO FINISH IN TIME!" she yelled at me, storming towards my direction.

"Don't worry, sis, I'll take care of him," Lindsay smile-promised, dragging me to the back. I rolled my eyes, my jaw tightening as I waited for Lindsay to give me more of her crap. Why didn't she want to do the right thing? Why didn't she believe me? I-I thought she was different. And I guess, well, no. No I didn't trust her.

"Hey," she smiled, looking up at me with a look in her eyes that I couldn't read. "I'm sorry about last night, but... My sister wouldn't do that. I was in the bathroom with her most of the time, she was just redoing her make up," she explained to me as my grimace faded. "Oh..." I mumbled, thinking it over. "I was just frustrated last night. I guess I can't wait to get my sister out of my hair," she smiled, looking at the ground.

There was a kind of awkward pause, so to fill in the silence I leaned down and kissed her, a whole new opinion on her. I knew she couldn't just change so suddenly. She was probably just tired last night, so she decided to lash out on me.

A few moments later she pulled apart, taking a breath before speaking. "We should go in," she sighed, sounding breathless. "Alright," I smiled genuinely down at her, a new kind of trust in my eyes, as I opened the door for her. I wiped the lipstick that she had left on my mouth off with my sleeve, before entering.

Walking in, Cadie seemed a little calmer, as we rehearsed it for the last time. The only time Cadie yelled was when I held hands with Lindsay halfway through. I think yelling is a little toning it down though, since she nearly had a panic attack.

"I'll be getting some fresh air," she growled, storming outside. Where was Dave? "Hey, I'm gonna go find the groom," I explained to her, as she nodded her head understandingly. I walked through the side door, the one closest to where Cadie had left. I didn't wanna spy on her, I just wanted to kind of check-in to see if she had been leaving to get Dave. Where was the kid, anyways?

Slowly closing the heavily wooded door, I heard Cadie's voice immediately. But when I didn't hear an answer from another person as she continued to babble, I figured she was on the phone. Probably with Dave, or one of her friends gossiping.

"I know, I know! I'm trying to get out of it just give me-" she cut off, as an angry tone interrupted her on the other day. "No! Okay look, I know it's my wedding day - Yes, yes, I still love you," she nodded her head, continuing to listen. "I'm sorry, I know I let this go on for too long. Look, just give me two hours and I'll be out of here in a flash," she sighed, frustrated. Huh?

"No, the bump isn't noticeable. It's only been a month; no one will be suspicious. Yes, I'm sure it's yours. Look, I have to go, I see Dave coming. I'll work everything out, okay?" she promised the caller, making a kissy noise. "Love you," she giggled in a sugar-coated voice.

"Hey babe," She called to Dave, I peeked, seeing that Dave tried to kiss him, but instead she turned her head so that he planted a kiss on her cheek. "Everything alright?" he asked her as she nodded. I sunk back against the wall in between us, my mouth agape. "Yeah, fine. Just wanna save that for tonight..." she tried to sound alluring, but instead she sounded nervous.

I walked back in, cringing when the door shut a little too loudly, but luckily Dave's footsteps covered it. I panicked, instantly grabbing Dave's arm as I pulled him off to the side, dragging him out of the Chapel, to a small isolated cafe. "What? What is it?" he asked, his eyes looking innocent and concerned.

"I-" I started, not sure exactly what to say. "Look, this is going to be hard, but you have to believe it," I tried to get him to trust me so that it wouldn't end like the Lindsay thing. "Spit it out!" he laughed nervously, not sure what to expect. "Alright... Cadie is... She's... Cadie's cheating on you," I finally blurted, dropping ten pounds from my shoulders.

"Why-Why would you tell me something like that?" he asked, a sarcastic, if not a bit annoyed, smile on his face. "What?" I repeated, not believing my own ears. "I love her, Jason. She's perfect and she loves me. She'd never do that. No way," she shook his head, mimicking the glare that Lindsay had given me, as he walked off. And I could see Lindsay's obviously angered face from behind his shoulder, glaring directly at me. "Great!" I thought to myself, wondering how I ended up being the bad guy. It was two hours until the wedding and all I knew was that I had to stop it... I had to.

Chapter 10 - The Wedding

I looked up at Lindsay, she was stomping towards me and I could feel the fury radiating off of her skin. Her eyes were perfected into a deep glare while the corners of her mouth were twitching into a snarl.

"Oh boy," I mumbled under my breath, sneaking through the fence around the small cafe. From there I took a trail down to the beach, before making a v-line towards the chapel. "Alright everyone! It's time to line up at the beach!" I heard a voice shout, one of Cadie's bridesmaids.

I ran to my beach condo, realizing the screen of my phone was flashing. There was a bright red button in the center, signalling that it was recording. "It recorded Cadie's conversation..." I thought to myself, or at least I hoped. When I had slipped it into my tuxedo pocket this morning, my thumb must have accidentally hit the 'record' button.

Scrolling back, I listened to Cadie's conversation with the mysterious phone caller, glad that I could hear what she said. I mean it was a little scratchy, but her words were clear enough to make out. I felt my heart sank in relief. I hadn't really thought I'd get a plan in time - but as it turns out, things were starting to put themselves together.

Walking out, I could see the guests piling into the sandy scenery, as Dave walked into place. I panicked, realized I was almost out of time. I saved the recording, editing out the extra parts after the phone call, as I slipped it back into my pocket.

I ran out, seeing that they were starting to walk down. Lindsay was in the front, walking around, a mixture of a confused and angry look in her eyes. "Here goes," I mumbled, running around the cathedral and casually walked into line with the other guys, my shoes sinking into the sand.

"Where were you?" she hissed under her breath, as I watched Dave get into place. "I was-" I was cut off by her voice. Why did girls start talking, stop, then start again? Too confusing. "And more importantly, what were you thinking? We've already been over this. And then you lied to me and went and tried to turn Dave, her soon to be HUSBAND, against her?" she whisper-shrieked, pausing to smile and wave at one of the guests. "I'm sorry, but I-" I started, though she cut off again. "You have NO right to apologize! None!" she, I hope, concluded her lecture, looking up at me with wide, irritated, eyes, expecting an explanation.

"When I went to go find Dave I heard her talking on the phone and I-" she cut me off. Again. "What? You were eaves-" she started freaking out again and I sighed, frustrated. "Look, can you just shuttup? Please? For one second? Just shuttup and listen to me," I asked, annoyed, though even I was surprised that I had said that.

"O-Okay," she choked and I almost swore I saw her eyes watering up. "I'm sorry, you just...." I sighed. I was messing everything up again. I put the recording up to her ear, pressing the play button, as she slowly took the phone from my ear.

She was a girl... She was entitled to talk, be moody, etc. Maybe I just shouldn't have gotten involved. I mean I tried to warn them but they didn't believe me... I was torn between doing what was right for me and what was painfully the truth.

And, like always, I chose the truth. Which I was sure had more downs than ups. I watched as Lindsay's eyes widened as she listened, as she stared blankly ahead. Her hand dropped to her side, as I took the phone from her hand. "You okay...?" I asked her unmoved body. "You were right..." she whispered. "...Pardon?" I asked her, not sure if I heard her right. "You were right... You were right! Ohmigod," tears fled from her cheeks as we were cued to walk down. "She-She told me she was pregnant. I thought it was Dave's though... I didn't know, I didn't..." she cut herself off this time. I looked down at the pain sketched into her face, wondering why she was putting the blame on herself.

"Lindsay, it wasn't your fault... I'd never lie to you," I tried to assure her, as the people in the crowd gave us confused looks. "I'm so sorry," she sobbed, as we reached the end. Luckily, they turned up the volume of the music to cover it up. "I thought she was different, I thought she had changed, I-" I cut her off, confused more than ever. "It's not your fault," I soothed, as she walked over to me. I wrapped my arms around her, kissing the top of her head. Meanwhile she cleared her tears, as they both realized Cadie hadn't come up yet.

The song that cued Cadie's walking up the aisle started, but still no Cadie. I also realized that one of the bridesmaids hadn't arrived. "Where is she?" Dave asked Lindsay, making it clear that he wasn't talking to me. "And everything alright...?" he asked Lindsay, as she nodded. Just as Lindsay started to speak, the last bridesmaids ran up with a note in her hand. No...

"She didn't show... Ohmygosh, she walked out on him," Cadie gasped, shaking her head, as she bit her lip. Dave opened the letter, his face dropped as he read the few letters printed on it. "What does it say?" I asked as he turned to me.

"Cadie's... Dead."

Chapter 11 - Lindsay

I knew i was being dramatic; but who wouldn't be? I finally had thought my sister had changed... I risked whatever 'relationship' I had with Jason, because I FINALLY trusted her. And then, it turns out, she had been pregnant. With another guy's baby. I could feel my fingers shaking, but the worst wasn't over yet.

I watched as Tiffany, one of my sister's old friends and current brides maid, ran up with a letter in her hand. "She didn't show... Ohmygosh, she walked out on him," I gasped, grabbing onto Jason's arm, biting my lip. Jason just looked ahead, the suspense rising as he asked Dave what the letter say.

"Cadie's... Dead." he sighed, his eyes drooping as he started lifelessly at the letter. A few people murmered in the crowd, but soon it was completely silent. So silent, that I felt intoxicated, as my breath quickened. His words were crisp and my face blankened, as I tried to take in the news. She was dead... What? How? No, she was leaving Dave... She wasn't- "I'm sorry," Jake finally murmered, as Dave shook his head, his face looking so aged and depressed.

I noticed how Jake didn't show him the evidence; for obvious reasons. However, I couldn't keep my eyes off of Dave. I can't even begin to describe how hurt and confused he looked; nor could I even begin to comprehend what might be going through his mind.

I cracked under the pressure, as I looked up at Jason, my face feeling hot and heavy. I turned, walking off in the other direction, as Jason followed a few paces behind. Why wasn't I crying? I knew I was on the verge of tears, but they just never came. This was so, so, much worse than anything that could bring tears.

I walked into my beach house, slumping into a sitting position on my bed. Jason walked beside me, his footsteps not even daring to be over a whisper. He slowely closed the door, his tie on crooked, but I couldn't bring myself to look at him. I couldn't look any higher than the floor. He sat beside me, trying to comfort me by letting my lean against him.

I could hear his heart thrumming against his thin cotton dress shirt, my eyes heavening. A thought hardly passed my mind, as a terrible ache started churning through my stomach. In fact, everything ached. My head was sore from confusion and realization, and my eyes were heavy as I struggled to keep them open. And everytime my heart beat, it was just another throb being surged through my body.

I sighed, a tear rolling out of my eye as it curiously made it way down my cheek. I didn't whip it off and soon it was a sticky salted stain against my cheek. Normally I couldn't stand the silence, but now I wanted nothing but silence. "You know what the worst part is?" I breathed the words, startled by how my voice wasn't at all like my own. "Hm?" he asked, though it was more of a sigh.
"I don't think I'll miss her for very long..."

Chapter 12 - Jason

I didn't know what to say - no, I had nothing to say to that. I knew how she felt, which reminded me of my military training - Rule 1, never get attached to someone. And with that, I came to realize that in six hours I was expected to catch a plane in California, to head over to Dave's post-graduation party.

"Screw the party," I thought to myself, feeling more and more uncomfortable in this cramped room. We didn't say anything and I knew the moments were loosely being tugged, but I didn't even attempt to leave until Lindsay was fast asleep. I walked through the front door, closing it carefully so that the only noise made was the 'tick' of the automatic lock.

I walked the short distance, being three or four feet, into my side of the beach house, tears off my tuxedo. I changed into a pair of faded jeans and a white shirt, overlapped with a navy blue West Point jacket. Leaving in my room, I heard the uproar of an engine as I saw Dave's Ferrari skid away, probably going to catch the ferry. "Poor guy..." I sighed, seeing the bridesmaid who had given Dave the letter.

It was a little suspicious, don't you think, that she just had a letter in hand demanding that Cadie was dead? How would she know, or how had Cadie been killed? "Hey!" I called out, leering in her attention, as I walked over to her. "Oh, uh, hey..." she mumbled, a squeamish look on her face. "Everything alright?" I asked, studying her body language, as my suspicion rose. "Yeah, yeah, fine," she nodded, as I wondered if lying, or holding something in, upset her.

"So, how did you find out about Cadie's death?" I asked blandly, preparing for myself to hear the worst. "What? Cadie's not dead, she's in California," she protested, her brows furrowed together in a state of confusion. It was obvious that she was not a great beauty.

"Well, that letter you handed Dave clearly said 'Cadie's Dead'..." I objected in a mumble, my eyes widening slightly, as if silently challenging her to argue back. "Oh, she handed me that letter and said to give it to Dave, while she ran off to California," she shrugged, not thinking much into it. "So she's not dead?" I asked, trying to clearly make it sure. "Uh, not that I know of. Now are we done here? I'm late for my massage," she whined and with a face of disbelief I walked off.

She's not dead. "You've got to be kidding me," I groaned, leaning against the house as I rubbed my eyes, trying to get everything in order. I slowly eased myself to my feet, as jammed the key into the latch of the door and let myself in. Lindsay wasn't in the bedroom, but I could see the dimple in the bed where her phone was. Picking it up, I pressed the button that the arrow on her screen was pointing to, to 'unlock' it, and then scrolled through her contacts.

Once I came to 'Cadie's Cell' I paused slightly, before entering it onto my phone. "What if she really was dead?" I thought to myself, though I pushed through the guilty thoughts and hit the green button that dialed her number. "Hello?" an eager, friendly, voice asked. "Cadie?" I asked, hearing Lindsay's footsteps freeze at her 'dead' sister's voice. "Yep, that's me," Cadie's slimy voice giggled. I hung up, not sure whether to smile or frown. Next, I called Dave's number, but it just continued to ring until I got his voice mail.

"Who-Who were you just talking to?" Lindsay stammered, looking from me to my phone, to her phone in my hand. "Cadie," I answered simply, beating her objection by speaking first, "it was just a cover up so she could get away. She's not dead." "Seriously?" she gasped as I nodded my head. "Seriously!" she repeated, but this time she smiled. "Seriously," I answered, nodding my head, smiling at her excitement.

"Wow... I mean-" her face was lit up and her smile grew wider by the second. "Oh my gosh, I really thought she was, well..." she continued to babble on, her giddiness getting to her. "I need to shut up, don't I?" she finally chuckled, looking up at me. "I thought it was kind of entertaining," I joked, as she looked up at me.

Our bodies froze, silently celebrating the news, before we slowly leaned closer and eased into a kiss, a thrill running up my spine.

If only Dave knew the truth... But would it matter?

Chapter 13 - Lindsay

I woke up to the crashing of waves, as I groaned and shifted my weight onto the right side of my body, my neck stiff and my right arm cramping up. Sighing, I opened my eyes to see an Egyptian blue midnight sky, sprinkled with diamonds and frosted with a glowing full moon. I sighed peacefully, before coming to my senses. "Wait... How come I can see the sky?" I thought to myself, looking around me. When I turned to my right I saw Jason beside me, in a deep sleep, and a champagne bottle tipped over by my feet.

"No... I didn't... Did I?" I thought to myself, trying to retrace my memory. I remember going to the bar with him and coming out here and making out, but...? I looked down and my clothes were how I left them. My tensed muscles relaxed, as I sunk against the bed of sand, highly relieved.

The sand was strangely uncomfortable, though. I mean for being soft and puffy, you'd think it would be like sleeping on a cloud. But no, it was like sleeping on a concrete floor outside of a busy high way. Slowly I sat up, knowing I couldn't stay out here. I checked my phone; it was already 3 a.m.. And what would people think if they had seen us here in the morning? I wiped off the smeared eyeliner from my cheeks, combed through my hair, and then patted Jason's arm.

"Hm, What? Did I miss something?" he mumbled groggily, sitting up and blinking. "Hey, we need to go inside, okay?" I offered him a hand, though he didn't take it, so I stood up anyways. He sighed, finally awake, as he stood up on his own. "What time is it?" he asked, looking around confused. "3 a.m.," I answered, as we headed towards our condos. Slipping my key from my pocket, I walked into my room as Jason held the door open.

"Goodnight," I smiled, lingering by the door, taking my time to to walk in, before turning around. He looked so tough - his arm propped against the door, his jacket tousled, as he stared at me with a loving affection. He was quite muscular and I just hoped he wasn't one of those gym-addicts. "Goodnight," he finally spoke, his words sounding more like a promise to me. He gave me a soft goodnight kiss, before I slowly shut the door.

I almost collapsed before I made it to my bed, biting down on my lip so hard to prevent myself from screaming in glee, that it left a mark. Changing into my pajamas(a tank-top and long cotton pajama pants) I nestled into my pillows, closing my eyes. And just as I was starting to drift off, I heard a knock on the door.

"Yes?" I asked impatiently, for once eager to get to sleep so that I could see Jason again tomorrow. "Um... I'm locked out," I heard Jason's voice. I buried my face into my pillow, to muffle to giggle. "He would do that," I thought to myself, smiling through my eyes. "Alright, get in here, there's a key under the mat," I finally smiled, as he walked inside. I patted the bed next to me and he laid down beside me. I didn't have to say anything, though he seemed to understand that I wasn't ready to do 'anything'. But still, he seemed content as he wrapped his arms around me in an embrace, snuggled up to each other, as I fell asleep.

Chapter 14 - Jason

I woke up, my face burried in the back of Cadie's head, breathing in the sweet strawberry auroma. I sighed peacefull, before slowely standing up, careful not to wake her. Leaving, I went to the front desk of the beach condos and got a spare key, which I used to let myself back into my side of the house. Changing into more casual clothes, I left and headed towards Starbucks, thinking it would be nice for Lindsay to wake up to coffee.

Walking in, I looked around, wondering what she might like. Walking up to the cashier, I began to order. "One mocha coffee and... Uh..." I mumbled, as the guy looked up at me. "Two?" he asked, a little shocked. "Well, one for me and one for my-" I cut off, not sure what to call her, "uh, friend, Lindsay." "Lindsay? Lindsay Jones?" the cashier asked and I nodded my head, a little confused. "Hey, Mitch, this guy knows Lindsay!" he called across the room to a muscular dark-haired man.

"Anyways, why don't we just get you her special?" he asked, as I felt a little reliefed. "Yeah, sure," I smiled, handing him my debit card, as I waited at the side. "One peppermint coffe, one mocha coffee!" Mitch called out, sliding them across to me. Taking them, I left, shuffling through the untouched morning sand, back to the beach house.

Opening my door, I realized she was half awake, shielding her eyes from the peeking sun. "Why are you up so early?" she asked, her voice muffled from her pillow. "Went to Starbucks," I answered, putting it down on the night table beside her. "Oh, thanks," she spoke, rubbing her eyes, as she abruptly froze. "Ohmygod I can't have you in here!" she gasped, hiding under her covers. "Why not?" I asked, frowning in confusion. "My hairs not done and-and I have to get changed and-" I cut her off by chuckling, as I slowly left her room.

Outside, I rolled my eyes, but in a more friendly-teasing way than that's-so-annoying way. I wished that girls knew that guys didn't care, even if the girl was at her worst. But, anyways, I left, heading towards the water.

Roughly fifteen minutes later, she finally walked outside. She was wearing denim short-shorts, a yellow v-kneck, yellow flip-flops, brown sunglasses, and a green bikini underneath. Her hair was in loser curls and her bangs were straightened.

"Hey!" she smiled brightly, jogging over to where I was. "Hey. Can I ask you something?" I asked her, not sure how to actually ask it though. Whenever it came to relationships it was really awkward for guys. "Mhm, sure," she smiled, walking along beside me. "Are we, um, dating?" I finally managed, as I watched her face go blank in concentration. "Well... Do you want to be?" she asked, turning her full attention back on me. Crap. "Yeah, but... Do you want to?" I asked her, noticing how her face perked with a smile at my answer. "Then I guess we are," she giggled, taking my hand in hers.

"But, first things first. We have to get to know eachother," she nodded her head. "So, tell me about yourself," she continued further on, sitting on the shore. I slowly sat down next to her, trying to think of my answer. "I'm Jason Ryan Parker. My favorite colors are blue and orange, I grew up in Florida, just graduated from West Point, I'm twenty three, and elligible to be station in the army in three months," I explained to her, though I saw worry lines on her face, at the last part. "Your turn."

"I'm Lindsay Rose Jones. My favrite color is green, I grew up in California, I'm twenty one, and I'm graduating from the University of Forida in two months," she nodded her head. "Oh, and one more thing," she smiled mischeviously and I wasn't sure what to do. "Yeah?" I asked with little hesitence. "I love swimming," she laughed, as she pulled me into the ocean with her, a salty spray splashing onto my face.

As she dove deeper into the water I laughed, chasing after her. We were almost shoulder deep when I got a hold of her ankle and tugged her towards me. Letting out a small scream, she turned to me and smiled, splashing water onto my face as she tried to let go. "Take that!" she giggled, as I closed my eyes, as she started to swim off. But just as she was turning I grabbed her hips and brought her back to me. "Darn," she fake-pouted, though I hadn't moved my hands. She took a step closer, sealing the space between us, as she wrapped her arms around me neck and kissed me.

When we pulled apart, she just looked up at me, as if trying to find an answer. "Didn't your flight leave yesterday?" she finally asked, pain in her eyes. "Yeah, but... How do you expect me to just leave?" I asked her, as we slowely made it to the shore again, sitting down in the shallow waves. "Your going to be leaving me in three months, anyways," she looked down at the sand, tracing a heart with her finger, though in seconds it was swallowed by a wave. "That's in three months. And I probably won't even be called for like a year, if I do get called," I shrugged.

"Okay," she sighed, leaning against me. "Can you just promise me one thing?" she asked and I was glad to say I could answer without even thinking about it. "What is it?" I asked, laying my head on top of hers. "No matter what happens... Don't forget me."

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/5/2010, 12:08 am

Chapter 15 - Lindsay

"Okay," he simply nodded his head. "Promise?" I asked, as he lowered his head so he was kissing my cheek, down to my neck. "Promise," he chuckled, as we sat there. We didn't say anything for a few minutes, but it was peaceful. It wasn't one of those awkward ohmygod-we-have-nothing-to-talk-about pauses, it was just a stop and think moment. Even with force, I couldn't get this bubbly grin off of my eyes. I felt my stomach clench, but in a moment it was relaxed again and I could feel my heart thrumming against my chest. My hands, along with my lips, were tingling and I was almost positive that I was on cloud 9. But there was one question that kept bubbling to the surface of my mind. Did I... Love him?

"No, that's nonsense," I thought to myself, Jason nibbling on the corner of my ear. "On second thought..." I thought to myself, closing my eyes. "No, back on focus," another part of my mind snapped. I couldn't... I had only been with him for a number of days, I hardly knew the kid! Yes, maybe in the future there would be something, but for now I was not. Or at least I was going to continue to tell myself that I was not. "So, when are you planning on going back?" I asked him, as e repositioned himself so that he was sitting behind me, hugging me from behind.

"How did he get so romantic?!" I thought to myself, part of my mind annoyed, but the other half too much loving it to care. "Whenever you want me to," he answered, as I pulled out my blackberry. Crap, it was already 4:00. I was supposed to drop off my dress at Susy's house(she was one of the bridesmaids), meet Monique for dinner, then go to a bridesmaids/best men party. "Don't you have a family waiting for you though?" I asked as I felt his body tense up. "Yea, whatever. I have to get dressed, I'm supposed to go to some party with the best men," he shrugged, his change of attitude abrupt as he got up and walked off.

"Well, then..." I thought to myself, laying back against the sand. Maybe that was his weak spot... A flashback of him telling me he joined the army for redemption crossed my mind. Saying that he wanted to forgive himself... I sighed, knowing I shouldn't just assume things.

Standing up, I trailed back to my beach house. I took a shower to scrub the sand and salt water out of my hair, before changing into a new outfit. I looked at my reflection and for once I smiled at what I had seen. My hair fell in glossy loose curls around me, streaked with darker, caramel, highlights. I was wearing a short, strapless, navy blue dress with a black and white polka-dot belt around it, silver heels, and a white head band.

I quickly applied a natural-looking coat of make-up, before heading out the door with my bridesmaids dress. It was a short walk to the girl's house, even though my heels kept getting stuck in crab holes and I got about two hundred pounds of sand in my pumps.

"Oh, thanks!" Susy squealed when I knocked on her door, swiping the dress from my hands. "No problem," I smiled politely, glad she was semi-normal. "So, are you going to the party after dinner tonight?" she asked as I bobbed my head. "I think I might skip out on dinner, though," I shrugged apologetically as she nodded in agreement. "Okay, well, can't wait to see you there!" she flashed me a wide smiled, as I waved goodbye and walked off.

I was supposed to meet Monique, my high school friend, for a quick snack in twenty minutes. So hopping into my Tiffany blue Mini Cooper and drove towards the island's Olive Gardens. Parking my car, I speed walked towards the front, giving him the reservation, before meeting up with Monique. We had planned this for months, I just hadn't remembered it until I was on the beach with Jason. I guess I had been so distracted by everything...

"Hey!" Monique jumped up, as we gave each other small hugs. I was surprised that she wasn't complaining that I was a few minutes late. "Hi! How have you been?" I asked, sitting down. "Great! Guess what?" she asked, as we had a short speak-through-your-eyes conversation. It was something only BEST friends understood. "No! He Didn't!" I gasped, a perky smile on my face. "He Did!" she squealed, flashing a HUGE diamond ring on her finger, as we both bounced on our seats. "Do you mind?!" a girl in the rows behind us asked. "Oops," Monique giggled, as the waiter brought us our drinks.

"I got you a martini, if that's okay," Monique explained as I nodded. I looked at the lime green drink, salted at the edges, with a lime slice perched on the side. "Yum," I smiled, as he took our order's. "And for you, bella?" he asked, looking at me the same was Jason did, just less extreme. "Umm... I-uh," I choked, looking down at the menu. Whenever I was in front of someone who complimented me, looked cute, or someone I had a crush on, I always blew it by making a fool of myself. But with Jason, well... I wasn't really sure.

"She'll take the Ceaser salad. And your number," Monique smiled, nudging my side as my cheeks burnt in embarrassment. "Alright," he smiled, writing it down, before walking away. "Same old Lindsay," Monique rolled her eyes, though her faint smile proved that she was just joking around. "What was that?!" I laughed, my hands still shaking in embarrassment. "I'm trying to hook you up with someone, since we both know how crappy you love life has been," she smiled proudly, as if she were a saint.

"Actually I, uh..." I mumbled, not sure how to finish it. "You what? Are you hiding something from me? Spill it!" she demanded, her eyes widened with interest. "ImetsomeoneatCadie'swedding," I blurted, the same excited, hypnotized look on her eyes. "Please do share!" she smiled, taking a bite out of her appetizer salad. Our dinners were handed to us, the waiters hand casually grazing against mine. And for the next ten minutes I explained everything that had happened since that boat ride, in between eating my dinner. "Ohmygosh, that's so... So... Perfect!" she exclaimed. "Thanks," I blushed, glad that Monique was actually admiring me for a change.

I had always envied her - since she was, well, gorgeous. She had jet black curls with just the perfect amount of bouncability to them, creamy mocha brown skin, and bright brown eyes. Her eyes also had a lighter orange streak across the bottom along with green flexes. She was a flyer and the head of our cheer leading team, nonetheless skinny as a stick. Finally, she had the BEST fashion sense, with even BETTER come backs. "I mean, I'm even jealous and I'm wearing the ring!" she smiled at her own joke, as I mimicked her grin.

"So... Do you think it's right? Are we moving too quickly? And what do you think that whole 'redemption' thing was about?" I asked her, nervously biting the bottom of my lip.
"Honey, you two were MADE for each other. Who cares how fast your moving, as long as you know that you have limits. And besides, love doesn't 'move too quickly'. Just let him be and when he's ready to tell you, then he will," she put a hand on my shoulder. I felt my eyes prick with tears.

"What? Did I say something?" I asked her. "No, it's just... Life's been really complicated and I've missed you a lot and I'm glad thing are working out for a change," my bottom lip trembled, as I dabbed my tears on my napkin. "Awww! I've missed you two! And I told you this would happen," she smiled through her eyes. "Now, I have a surprise for you..." she giggled crazily and I knew right away she was planning something. "What is it?" I asked, trying not to sound frightened. "Mike and I are visiting next Monday!" she squealed as I gasped in excitement.

"Ohmygosh!" I exclaimed, as we both checked the time. "Gotta go?" I asked as she nodded. "Yeah, but I'll see you in just four days!" she promised, signing the bill. "Oh, you don't have to pay for that!" I protested, but it was already done. "Oooh and look what this waiter left you," she tossed me a crumpled piece of paper with a number on it, the name 'Chris' scribbled above. I rolled my eyes, carelessly stuffing it into my pocket. "See you soon," we hugged goodbye, as we both dashed off to our cars. And in heels, might I mention, that is VERY tricky. It takes pure talent to be able to do it.

Hopping into Tiffany(that's right; I named my Mini Cooper), I sped off towards the local bar, where I was supposed to meet the mother's at a party. However, the front was full as I had to park behind the building, in the Starbucks parking lot. Setting foot, I trudged/shuffled through the sand, trying to circle around a mysterious looking man by the dumpster.

But, instead, my cover was blown. "Hey there, doll face," his gruff voice mused and I looked down, avoiding him. "Hey, did I talk to you? Show some manners, spoiled brat, he caught my wrist as I was yanked towards him. I shuffled through my purse, trying to find my pepper spray, but instead it was knocked out of my hand. I could feel beads of sweat form around my hairline as I was ridden of any words, including, "HELP!!!!!!!!!"

"Um, hi," I finally choked, my voice lower than a peep. "That's more like it. Now why don't you come along with me to my apartment?" he asked and I could recognize some familiarity in his voice. "...John?" I asked blankly, loosing any fear. "Hello Lindsay," I watched as his shadowed face curled into a greedy smile; one that I was very common with. "Go screw yourself, John," I spat, rolling my eyes, as I started marching off.

"Look, you," he growled so fiercly that I felt myself whimper, as he pinned me against the wall. "Your little hot shot boyfriend 'ain't around to save you this time. So you get in my god 'darn' car, and this'll be easy," he snapped, and I had nothing to say but try to fool an innocent look. "Gosh you look hot tonight... Maybe I won't tie you up that hard," he whispered in my ear, trying to kiss me, though I moved my face side ways so that my jaw line smacked against his nose.

"Ow, what the-" he was cut off by my shrill scream that left goosebumps on even my skin. "Shut up!" he ordered, though I kept screaming. "SHUT UP!" he demanded, slapping me across the face. I could feel my skin reddening. "This isn't going to have to end badly, is it?" he growled, slapping me again as I cried out in pain. Cars were passing us, but nobody bothered to stop. Did they not see the fear in my eyes, or how wrong this looked? No, they did. They just didn't bother to do anything.

Digging his nails in my wrist he dragged me to his car as I followed him, no emotion in me. This was it. I was going to die. I was going to... I saw a figure running from the other direction and with one swift movement, John was on the floor, what I thought looked like some big animal on top of him. I shrieked, as the animal hesitated to look at me, before picking up my fallen purse, pulling out my Pepper Spray, pressing the heel of my shoe into his gut, before shooting in two inches from his face, not letting go even though it burnt my eyes to. I felt the figure - not John, the other one, drag me away from John, though he had gotten half a dozen punches before hand.

I didn't know I was crying until the figure was whipping the hot tears off of my face and looked into those bright blue gleaming eyes, when I realized it was Jason. My knees were shaking and for some reason I felt annoyed. I looked up at him just before he called the police and for some reason I wasn't crying. I knew I should be, but the tears just weren't coming to my eyes. And without another thought I turned and walked away.

Chapter 16 - Jason

"911 how can I help you?" a voice asked. "Police please, there's been an attempted kidnapping at the starbucks on the southern part of the island," I answered, listening to the raspy buzz on the other end. "Alright, the police have been notified and are on their way," the women concluded as I hung up. I turned to see where Lindsay was, though she wasn't anywhere in sight. I could hear footsteps not far off though and turning the corner, she was walking off.

"Lindsay, are you crazy?" I asked, more confused than I could ever remember. "What?" she asked, looking over her shoulder but it was more of a what-are-you-talking-about tone. "Uh, you can't just walk off... Do you not remember what happened back there?" I asked her. "Yeah... So what? I have to be baby sat now? And I'm tired, I'm going back to bed," she shrugged.

I stood there, gawking, until I couldn't see her anymore. "Wait!" I yelled out, running to catch up with her. "What about your car?" I asked, brows furrowed together. "I can get it tomorrow. It's better exercise anyways," he didn't even turn around. "Well shouldn't I at least walk you home?" I asked, giving my last chance of hope. "Look... I don't need to be treated like a little kid, I can stand up for myself. And yeah, what happened back there was horrible, but it's not going to change anything and honestly I'm hoping to forget it in the morning. Okay?" she asked, widening her eyes annoyed, as she took off again. I could hear the police sirens as ongoers told them what happened and they hauled John into the car.

"Well that was extremely unsuccessful," I thought to myself, leaning back against the wall of the bar. I had seen her looking so frightened, so... I'd also seen her being slapped, cornered against the wall, and yelled at. I could feel my hands shaking I was so angry, as I continued to wonder why after that she just numbly followed him.

She had been taking this so much less serious than it really was... I mean was she going to sew him, was she going to get interviewed by the police, was she going to tell anyone? Wasn't this going to take any effect on her at all...?

I let my mind drift back to that night. The bullet shots, the shrill screams, the fire, the pain... I shivered, closing off the memory again. But literally, that's all I could remember. I knew I was joining the army to get redemption, but what was I trying to redeem? What had happened to me? Why couldn't I remember? "Oh, right," I thought to myself, remembering what the doctor had said. 'Something so terrible has happened to you that your memory chose to let it go in order to protect yourself'. What a bunch of crap.

I walked back to the beach house and I could hear a noise, something that sounded like a muffled laughter. Pressing my ear to the door, I found out it was sobs. I felt bad, but not wanting to annoy her anymore I stepped into my own room, which thankfully cut off the voice. An hour or two later I finally drifted into a deep sleep.

Chapter 17 - Lindsay

I woke up, a weird aura around me. I felt as light as a feather without a care in the world, but my head was throbbing, seeing how I had slept against a sore spot. But why did I feel so relieved of stress and everything? "Oh, right... I'm dead. I don't have to worry about Cadie, or my coworkers, or Jason..." I thought to myself.

Wait. I was dead. How did I feel pain? I opened my eyes and sighed, the guilt, anxiety, and pain filling up my chest. I was well aware of what had happened last night. Had it affected me? Yes. Was I going to openly say that? No. There was something in the back of my mind that kept making its way to the top of my thoughts...

Why had I felt so glad about not having to be with Jason? I guess I felt like I owed him something... Something more than my life, though my life was a very useless thing. This hadn't been the first time this had happened to me. I shivered at the memory, my throat closing, a cold sweat over me. "Don't think about it," I thought to myself. But still, I thought that it was my time to do in some way. If all these terrible almost-death experiences kept happening, maybe god just wanted me to die...

"Get your head out of the clouds!" I whispered briskly under my breath. Back to the Jason thing... It was the same with receiving presents. I ABSOLUTELY hated it. I always felt guilty, like I owed the person something, or that I always had to have an open heart towards them. It was same with Jason, but so much worse. How could I ever repay him...? How could I ever rid myself of this debt that was building up in my heart?

I sighed, feeling my eyes burn. I looked in the mirror to see me, though I looked more like a raccoon. My mascara and eyeliner was smudged down to my cheeks and up to my eyebrows, along with being streamed over my pillow. I sighed, getting out one of my make up removal pads, as I scrubbed away. Finally the pinkness in my eyes and the dark black shadows were gone. My feet also ached, but that was because I had fallen asleep in my heels. I sighed, getting scissors as I snipped them off, not wanting anything to do. In fact, I threw my whole outfit away. I always compared my clothes with memories and, well, this wasn't exactly a memory I wanted to keep close to me.

I changed into a pear of PINK white 'Florida Gator' shorts, a white cammi, and dark blue Hollister flip flops. I knew I had been bitter to Jason last night, but did I not have every last right to? Yeah, he'd saved me, but I think I've gotten my opinion across. I just didn't want to feel like he owned me, which was exactly what I was feeling now. I resisted the urge to go to his room and cry and thank him. I shuddered at the thought.

I could still be my own person and I could leave this behind me. I didn't need counceling, I didn't need pity, I didn't need anything to change. I wasn't sure if this would bring us closer or push us apart. I knew he thought how I handled this was weird, but that was just how I adjusted to things. And I knew that this should bond us together, but I wasn't sure if I wanted to get closer just because of this. It was like the latest iCarly episode - she thought that she was in love with Freddy just because he saved her life. And he told her that if she still liked him in a month or so, then they would get together, but for now they'd be apart.

I sighed. "Life is complicated," I thought the cliche line, opening the door, realizing that I drifted right a little bit towards Jason's door, but in the end I walked towards the back. I was planning on going somewhere, but, it was too quiet. No one was out and there was a creepy chill to the air, so I immediately ran to the front, panting. I walked back into my room, but still, I felt so... Alone.

Checking in the closet, bathrooms, under the bed, under the desk, etc., I knew I was alone, but I was so paranoid about... Well, I think it was pretty obvious. Everyone had those moments once in a while though, so I didn't think much of it. I realized I wasn't breathing so I let out a gust of breath, before leaving and knocking on Jason's door. "Well, shows how much self control I have," I thought to myself, not sure exactly what to expect.

Chapter 18

"Jaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaassssssssssssssssssssssssssooooooooooooooooooooooooonnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn," I heard a loud whisper in my ear, as I rolled over onto my other side, still half asleep. "PSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSST! Jassssoonnnn, it'ssss meeeee, Linddddsaaaaaayyyyyyyy," the whispered grew louder. Annoyed, I opened my eyes, to see Lindsay kneeling beside my bed, right in front of my face. "GAH!" I gasped, struggling with my sheets for a second, before making it onto my feet.

Blinking, as the blood rushed to my head and I got one of those nerve-wracking headaches, as she giggled. "What are you doing in here? Wait, how did you even get in here?" I asked, rubbing my eyes, before sitting on my bed. "I don't know, I felt lonely. And I knocked but no one answered so I just tried my room key and it worked," she explained with a cheerful smile.

Her attitude sure had changed a lot from last night. "Oh, sorry about that, by the way," she half-smiled an apology, obviously commenting on my confused face. "I was just a little shaken up," she shrugged, her eyes becoming distant as she looked off in another way. She looked so depressed right there, but then she blinked and it was gone.

As I brushed my teeth and got changed(in the bathroom), she asked me, "So, what do you want to do today?" "Don't you want to take it easy...? See a therapist or something?" I asked, walking out of the bathroom as she shook her head swiftly, her curls bouncing around her. "Alright... Then I'm up to anything," I smiled, sitting on the edge of the bad, as she sat behind me.

"Oh, by the way, my friend is visiting next Monday," she explained as I nodded my head. Today was Friday, so we'd have a few days. "Oh right, our rooms expire next Saturday, so what do you want to do...?" I asked, basically asking whether we were going to try to stay together. "We'll figure that out later," she scooted closer to me, pecking me on the lips. "Alright, sounds good," I smiled, as we kissed once more.

"I was thinking about going back to California and buying a dress for when they come and visit," she explained, standing to her feet and bringing me with her. She lead me outside, down to the bench-swing in the front. After a few wordless seconds, she spoke up.

"About what you said before... Are we just going to go our own ways, or what...?" she asked me. "Well I mean we wouldn't have to move in together or anything, but we could live by each other," I offered. "Well, the Monday after Monique leaves, I'm supposed to go to a family reunion in Colorado... Maybe you could come?" she asked me. "Yeah, sure," I agreed, glad that we had made a plan. Maybe things were going to work themselves out...

"One more thing..." she mumbled. "Yes?" I asked, waiting for whatever it is. "Monique's a very stylish, but competitive and opinionated person. She has a lower tolerence for bull crap and is very confident, so..." she trailed on. "So... What?" I asked, since Monique sounded a lot like Lindsay herself. "Sodon'tgetmadifshetriestocompareyouandMarkus," she blurted and it took me a few seconds to catch on. "I won't. Promise," I nodded my head, since I wasn't the type to do that. But her doubtful look told me that I didn't quite know what I was going to expect.

"So why don't we leave at two-ish and head to California, go shopping for a little bit, stay at a hotel, shop more the next day, and then come back that evening, on Saturday?" she asked, as my interest was perked. We were going to stay in a hotel room together? That seemed a bit un-Lindsayish. Then again, we'd probably end up getting different rooms. Or something.

"Alright, I'm going to go get ready. See you then!" she chirped, pecking me on the cheek, before shuffling back into her own room. I sighed contently, leaning against the bench, though something was still nagging at me. I wasn't sure why, but I felt that Lindsay wasn't as 'okay' as she was trying to appear...

Chapter 19 - Lindsay

I knew that he knew I hadn't fully recovered yet. Whatever. I would, I just needed time. As in time AWAY from him. I looked over my outfit - I was wearing a short white dress with ruffles at the bottom, brown flip-flops, and brown sunglasses. Something simple and casual, along with being appropriate for California.

I heard a knock on my door and I knew it was Jason, so I was quick to fetch it. "Hey," he smiled, kissing me hello on my lips. "Somebody's up early," I noted, slightly giggling. "Don't be too surprised," he chuckled, as he opened the door for me. "Thanks," I nodded my head, walking out of the door. "Don't mention it."

Stepping into my car, he got into the driver's seat, when we both realized that we had to get OFF of the island. So getting out, laughing, we headed across the island, where we met up with the 'boat-taxi' man. He brought us to the dock, where we boarded the small ferry and started traveling to the other side of the island.

Leaning against the rail, recent memories of when we'd met came flooding back to me. They were stained with memories of John, but I tried my hardest to get rid of them. "Lindsay?" I heard my name, breaking me out of my daze, as I turned to face Jason. "Mhm?" I asked, wondering if something had happened. "Just wondering if you were okay," he shrugged. "Yeah, just tired I guess," I smiled weakly. "Alright," he chuckled, taking my hand in his as I sipped my water bottle.

"I love you," he said, turning to me, as I choked on my water, dropping the bottle over the side of the boat. "What?" I gasped, continuing to choke. "I really do," he shrugged, looking directly at me, as I heaved a breath.

"I love you... Too..." I managed, wondering why he had chosen now of any time. I guess it was because this was where we'd met. "Good," he smiled, happiness purely in his blue eyes, as he kissed the top of my head. I sighed, before thinking to myself, "How did I get so lucky?"

We didn't speak much before departing the ferry, though we didn't have a lot of time to speak. I whistled using my fingers, as a cab sped our way. "I love California. It's like the less-popular version of New York City," I smirked, sliding into the car, once Jason opened the door for me.

"Where to?" a heavily bearded and tan man asked us, as I threw a fifty dollar bill at him. "Los Angeles, please," I smiled, as he sped away. Once we arrived, I was surrounded by cute shops, some that were California appropriate, and others that were all over the world.

"I'm going to head to Hollister, okay?" I asked, letting him do whatever he wanted. "Alright. I'll be in Starbucks. Want something?" he asked me as I thought for a second, biting my lip. "Strawberry Frap. please," I smiled, as he kissed me, before we went out seperate ways.

Entering the maze-of-a-store, I was blasted by popular music and the strong smell of, well, Hollister. And you know what? I absolutely LOVED it. Sorting through the clothes, I didn't need to try them on to know whether they'd fit. I shopped here so often, I kind of recognized what fabric and styles looked good on me and what size I'd need. Pretty pathetic, huh?

Ten or so minutes later, I left with two of their mini shopping bags and one big one, full of a variety of clothes. I had taken a break from Hollister, but it was night to catch up. Waddling over to Starbucks, I looked around for Jason.

All I could find was the customer's in line and some guy trying to get a girl. I narrowed my eyes. "Jason?" I thought to myself, seeing him beside a perky blonde, whose shorts were probably smaller than the half an inch heel of my shoe, with a tank top on that showed her stomach to the extent that I could see her shiny belly button ring. My cheeks reddened out of anger, not embarrassment, as I took a step forward. Aaron was leaning against a wall, looking as if he was trying to be the big bad boy that he WASN'T.

How could he tell me something like that and then go and hit on a different girl. "Okay, well, I'll see you around," he smiled, as she reached up and kissed him on the cheek. He looked around guiltily during it, before meeting my gaze as I tapped the heel of my shoe. My lips were tightened, loops like I had eaten something sour, as I shook my head, glaring at him, as the tramp passed my side, holding MY drink in her hands.

"Hey, you okay?" he asked me again, trying to cover his guiltiness with a fake-worried tone. "Why should you care? It's not like we're going out," I sneered, storming out of the store as I whistled for a taxi. I remembered thinking that I'd been so lucky... Looks like I thought a little too fast.

Chapter 20 - Jason

I was in Starbucks when my ex girlfriend, Rachel, came up and immediately started flirting with me. I kept the conversation bland, making it obvious that I was uncomfortable and that I wasn't interested. "Why are you so nervous?" she asked, tilting her head to the side, her blonde hair falling into her face. Okay, to be honest, she was a bit trashy. It didn't attract me, if anything I wondered why the heck I had dated her.

Her shorts were like an inch long and her thinly strapped shirt rode up to show off her belly button ring. "Have some decency..." I thought to myself, not even directly looking at her. "I'm not. I'm just kind of in a relationship with this girl," I shrugged, as she arched an eyebrow. "So?" she asked, tilting a brow. "She's kind of the jealous type," I shrugged, trying to come up with an escape plan. "Oh... Remember when we went out?" she asked, as I thought back to last year. It had only been for like a week or two. "Not really," I lied, looking at the ground.

"Well, it was pretty nice. Too bad you had to move," she pouted her lip as I snorted. "What?" she asked, as I saw Lindsay entering. "My girlfriend's here, I'm gonna go catch up with her," I finally managed, about to excuse myself, when she reached up and kissed me on my cheek. "I'm parched! Thanks for the drink, Jason," she winked at me, taking Lindsay's drink, as she pushed past Lindsay and left the store.

I don't think I'll ever forget that look she gave me. She looked so angry, upset, heartbroken, and deceived all at once. "Hey, you okay?" I asked, guilt merging into my voice. "Why should you care? It's not like we're going out," she sneered, swiftly leaving the store, as I heard her whistle for a taxi.

No... This can't be happening. Not now. Not after all of that crap I went through. Just as I heard the store door close, I pushed passed it again, chasing after her. "Lindsay!" I called out, as she pretended to not here me, whistling again for a taxi. "Lindsay wait, I can explain!" I yelled, people on the side staring at us. Not that I cared. It's not like I'd ever see them again, anyways.

"Explain what?" she snapped. "That you were in there living it up with some trashy girl? No, I'm not putting up with that crap. You can't tell me you love me and then have another girl kiss your cheek," she shrieked, as I got several dirty looks. "She was my ex girlfriend! Do you think I Wanted her to do that? No! I told you I loved you for a reason, okay? And I meant it. I love you. That means I want to be with you, Lindsay. Not her. I told her I wasn't interested, I don't know why she did that! I swear to god, I wasn't flirting with her. Please, just listen to me for a second!" I begged, as she stomped off. But at the end, she hesitated, turning to me.

"Are you sure...?" she finally asked me, as I nodded me head. "Do you think I'd still be in Catalina if I wasn't?" I chuckled. I watched as she blushed, slowly walking back to me. "Thanks... And... I love you to," she admitted, her cheeks bright red as she blinked back the angry-tears that she had worked up. She hugged me, as I breathed in her vanilla smell, before pulling apart. Pecking her on the lips, I whispered, "Now, do you wanna keep shopping?" "Yes," she smiled, taking me hand, as we walked back to the side walk.

We received many "awww"'s and whistles from the nearby crowd that had stopped to listen. I smirked as Lindsay blushed. "I kind of feel like I'm in a movie," I chuckled as she nodded her head in agreement.

We continued down to a store she wanted to visit, called Marc Jacobs, or something like that. After twenty minutes of searching, she finally found a dress she wanted to try on, when she came out I was surprised by her choice, but also surprised by how nice it looked on her.

She got a black dress with sparkled on the top and a white bow around the wait, while it was tight until the bottom. It was silky and sleek against her skin, making her look really hot but also classy. "What do you think?" she asked, twirling.

"I think you have to get it," I chuckled. "Same. I love it," She smiled, looking in the three-sided mirror. "Alright," she decided, as she changed out of the dress, and pretty soon had it in a shopping bag. "Is that it?" I asked as she nodded. "Yep, let's go," she chirped, as we left the store. It was seven-ish by now and by the sound of her stomach, we were both hungry. "Want to get something to eat?" I offered as she nodded her head.

"Where to?" I asked, as she looked around. "How about... Olive Gardens?" she offered, as I nodded in agreement. "Alright. Olive Gardens it is," she smiled, as we headed that way. "Table for two?" a waitress asked, as I nodded my head. "Okay. Right this way," she directed us to a two-chair table in the center of the restaurant, with a vase of flowers in the center.

I ended up ordering the shrimp scampi, while she got the angel hair pasta. "So, we're staying where tonight?" she asked, as we began to eat. "The Reseda Inn, I think it's called?" I answered, though I wasn't sure myself. "Yeah, that's what it's called," I nodded my head.

"Sounds pretty nice," she smiled, as I paid for the dinner. "So, is there anywhere else that you wanna go?" I asked, as she shook her head. "I'm exhausted," she sighed, as we picked up our stuff and left. "Yeah, I know what you mean, I chuckled, eating one of the little mints that they always give you. Getting another taxi, we drove to the hotel.

From the second we entered, it was more than I could have asked for. The lobby was a royal green and there was staff and decorations everywhere, while there was the sound of a fountain trickling. I checked in, since I had made the reservation earlier today, and we were shown to our room.

The room was really nice, to. It was a deep red, with dark brown tables and such. We unpacked our stuff, which fit into one of Lindsay's shopping bags since we packed pretty lightly, and got ready for bed. Coming out of the bathroom with long pants on, no shirt, like I usually slept, I noticed there was only one bed. Lindsay was already on the center of it, flipping through the channels of the television. She was wearing black cotton shorts and a pink tank top, which I guess was girl pajamas.

"So, are we sharing a bed, or am I on the floor?" I joked, frowning in amusement. "Mmm..... I think we can share. But we're not doing anything, okay?" she asked as I nodded my head. "Alright, got it," I repeated, as I climbed into bed with her. "We need to do this more often..." she winked at me, as the changed the channel again.

"Ohmygod! 27 dresses is on!" she shrieked, looking at me excitedly, as if it were a big deal. "Hurray?" I chuckled, not getting it. "This is my favorite movie, don't make fun of me," she whacked me with one of the pillows. "Fine, fine, fine," I agreed, as she snuggled up to me.

And so I laid there in complete bliss, her head nestled against my chest, as the movie played. And I was glad to know that this would be the first of many nights that we'd spend together. What could I say? I was in love. And it had taken just one night.

by **Avé** 4/5/2010, 12:09 am

That'd be cool. Very Happy

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/5/2010, 1:26 pm

[ignore]

by 4everme4everbeauty 4/5/2010, 1:35 pm

Amazing! This is one of the best things I have ever read, better than my stuff!

by **leah_hope92** 4/5/2010, 1:40 pm

It's great! I'm nominating it for story of the month. (:

by Tolly12bells 4/5/2010, 1:46 pm

Wow, that was amazing! I can't wait to read more!

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/5/2010, 1:49 pm

Oh my gosh Im blushing xD Thanks guys!

by •○•[Lemon-Licious]•○• 4/5/2010, 4:23 pm

You're such a talanted writer, Emffers! Never let anyone tell u different. Smile

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/5/2010, 5:03 pm

Aww thanks Cassierole (:

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/5/2010, 5:34 pm

Chapter 2 is up - Lindsay's P.O.V.! (:

by •○•[Lemon-Licious]•○• 4/5/2010, 5:48 pm

Aw. I love it. So romantic. xD

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/5/2010, 5:50 pm

[thanks xD i like the guys perspective better]

by **shadowsowner888** 4/5/2010, 10:41 pm

This is so sweet, Hearts! ^^ You must keep writing.

by 4everme4everbeauty 4/5/2010, 11:46 pm

I loved it! Its funny, romantic, and suspenseful to me all at the same time!

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/6/2010, 12:13 am

[NO! I was finished with the 3rd chapter and I had the color set and everything but I accidentilally refreshed it! DARN DARN DARN!]

----

Oh well. Guess this gives me a chance to go and make it better.. xP at Midnight lol.

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/6/2010, 12:13 am

Thanks Ells & Shadow (:

by **leah_hope92** 4/6/2010, 12:21 am

It's amazing. You give great detail [something I wish I was better at], and overall, a great writer. I've already nominated it, but I also wanna give you rep. I wish you luck with the next chapter [that's happened to me so many times. It sucks], hopefully it'll get through. Just incase, I would copy it though. Anyway, my point is, you're a awesome writer, and you should get it publishes someday.

P.S. Can't wait for chapter three! (:

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/6/2010, 12:25 am

[[Thanks. Hopefully I will one day... Hopefully one day I will tell me dad that this is based entirely off of his first marriage, with more depth and drama to it. xD And fake names, of course... (:]]

by **leah_hope92** 4/6/2010, 12:30 am

Yeah, lol. Again, I wish you luck with the chapter. (:

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/6/2010, 1:02 am

[Thanks. Its finished at... 1:02 a.m.! Wooo xD

I have a feeling I got off topic, but there wasn't much to work with, so I'll go and edit it in the morning.

Chapter 3 is up!]

by **leah_hope92** 4/6/2010, 1:42 am

I don't think you did. But as always, amazing.

by 4everme4everbeauty 4/6/2010, 2:03 am

That was great Ems! I loved the very last oart of chapter 3 where he sees he's standing with Lindsay

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/6/2010, 11:20 am

Thanks! Me too. I can't wait to do Lindsay's perspective xP I have it all planned out lol. *gets to writing*

by <3--[Emily]--<< 4/6/2010, 9:59 pm

[Chapter 4 is up! Kind of a useless chapter, while Jason & Lindsay get to know eachother more.]

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Re: Just One Night [THE FINAL CHAPTER-20-IS UP!]

Re: Just One Night [THE FINAL CHAPTER-20-IS UP!]

Re: Just One Night [THE FINAL CHAPTER-20-IS UP!]

Re: Just One Night [THE FINAL CHAPTER-20-IS UP!]

Re: Just One Night [THE FINAL CHAPTER-20-IS UP!]