More than I bargained for.
Title: More than I bargained for.
Author: Samantha
Rating: PG-13 for now.
Summary: Sequel to My heart was across the street. Seventeen years later, Bella and Scarlet move back to Chicago where they run into long lost relatives…
Author’s Notes: Okay, here I am, late at night at my computer, again... I hope you like this chapter. Enjoy.. reviews are bliss.
This is a pic of Aaron Piersol the hottie. He is who I picture as Jonathon.. I can not get him out of my head. Well I hope you like this chapter.
Scarlet's outfit:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application?namespace=moreInfo&prnbr=9C-226636&cgnbr=OSCLOSKIVIL&moreInfoInd=largeView&dispMode=STANDARD&buttonClicked=btn_lg_view&selColor
(sorry, here's a link to it.)
Now for the story::
Part Four-
Mom didn’t bother me. She knew when to give me my space and when I needed to talk. I didn’t fall asleep until late that night. When I woke up it was still dark outside. I checked my clock, six-thirty. Peachy. I got up quietly to find my mom sleeping in my rocking chair. She had a blanket draped over her. She probably watched me sleep last night, weird. Her lips were moving softly, making it look like she was awake. I moved closer and heard her talking.
“Edward… take care….” she breathed heavily. “of… Scarlet.” I didn’t know what she was talking about but I found it really sweet that she was dreaming about dad. I sneaked out of the room as quietly as I could, making my way to the kitchen.
“Scarlet.”
“Alice!” I hissed. “You scared the crap out of me. What are you doing here?”
Alice shook her head, amused. “Bella called me last. She was worried about you. What happened?”
“I don’t want to talk about it.” I said truthfully. Alice stood up from the couch, glaring at me.
“Scarlet Grace Cullen. Don’t you start that with me. Your mother was worried sick last night. And as her best friend, it’s my job to fix that. Now don’t bullshit me, what happened?” my angry Godmother demanded. I was taken aback. Who knew Alice was so rough? No, not rough. Just protective of my mom. I sighed and sat down in the armchair off to the left of the couch. Alice sat too, still glaring.
“Jeez Alice.” I sighed. She relaxed with an apologetic smile on her lips. I held back my own smile. “I don’t know. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. Jonathon is so sweet and nice but Im just a mental case.”
Alice’s musical laugh floated around the room. I scowled at her and she composed herself.
“Scarlet you are not a mental case. Trust me, with a shrink as a husband you pick up a few things and you..” she shook her head. “are not crazy. You’re a teenager.” she acted as if that explained it all. I shook my head at her.
“No seriously. I like him. He’s cute, well that’s an understatement. But he’s so nice and sweet and smart and he likes me! Well, liked me. He asked me out and I said no. Why? Why Alice why did I say no?” I pleaded for an answer. Alice thought for a minute.
“Tell me exactly what happened.” she commanded. I nodded and reviewed the night before aloud. Alice listened intently, occasionally nodding or smiling. Sometimes frowning and that’s when it worried me. When I finished with my tale, she took my hands in hers.
“Scarlet listen. I think, and im no Jasper, but I think that you are worried that if you let yourself love, that well, your scared that what happened to your parents is going to happen to you. From what I’ve heard, Jonathon is a great guy and he’s stubborn. He’s not going anywhere. He really likes you and you can’t go living in fear that you’ll lose the ones you love. What happened to my brother was horrible, yes. But I know for a fact that your mother does not regret loving him for one second. Loving him made her happier than ever and it gave her you.” Alice brushed the hair out of my face. I thought it through. It sounded reasonable but was it true? Was I carrying around a fear that once I let him in, he would disappear? “And if Edward were here he would say the same thing. You have to let that go and give Jonathon a chance. He’s great. And if he hurts you then I would personally hunt him down and rip his throat out, so don’t worry.”
“And I’d help.” Mom said from behind me. I looked back to see her smiling down at me. Alice giggled and nodded enthusiastically.
“It doesn’t matter.” I stated. “I already turned him down more times than I can remember, he’s not going to ask me again.”
When I thought about it I knew Alice was right. I was carrying around my mother’s baggage, and I needed to stop. Mom moved to me and put her arms around me from behind. I leaned into her and breathed in her scent. She came around and took me more securely in her arms. I let her hold me. “I highly doubt he’s giving up now sweetie.”
“And why’s that?”
“I’ll never bet against Alice.” she assured me. I looked up at her face and she smiled. I glanced over at Alice and saw her grinning smugly. I raised an eyebrow questioningly.
“I have a feeling.” she winked. I rolled my eyes. How could she possibly know? She sensed my hesitation. “You’ll see.” I laughed into mom’s shoulder disbelievingly. She patted my back, soothing me.
Once it was light out I took a shower and got decent for the day. Alice had laid out another outfit for me. A dark pair of jeans that fit me well and a blue tank top. I slipped my sneakers on and took Tasha out for a walk. I was too mopey to go to the park again so I changed my route. I walked in the other direction in search of a new destination. Tasha had fun sniffing out the new spots. It wasn’t long before I saw another park, this neighborhood was full of them. Alice had taken mom out shopping today. I couldn’t take anymore shopping right now so I had all day to myself.
I walked up to the edge of the park to check it out. It was smaller than the other one and had mostly athletes working out. It had a large track filled with many runners that went around a small baseball field. At the field were a bunch of kids about my age, some guys, some girls. They were all wearing shorts and t-shirts in the August sun. I walked into the park, keeping Tasha on her leash. I wandered over to the benches by the field to watch the game.
A tall girl with dirty blonde hair was up to bat. She had short shorts on that complimented her legs and a bright orange tank top. I watched her swing the bat and meet the ball with perfect timing. It soared out past the end of the field and almost hit a jogger. Somebody ran out to retrieve the ball while she circled the bases. She made it to third base before they got the ball back in play and a huge smile was plastered on her face. I chuckled at the pitchers expression; he looker irritated.
The next player was up to bat and I gasped when I recognized him. His blonde curls gave him away before his face. He picked up a bat and tried out the wieght of it. When he approached the base he swung it a few times. He wore a pair of sweats and a wife beater shirt. His muscles glowed in the sunlight and I couldn’t help but stare. The pitcher threw the ball and it almost hit Jonathon. I stopped myself from jumping up to help him, not that I could’ve done anything. He smoothly stepped back out of the way and the catcher caught it. The next pitch went right to him and he swung hard, making his muscles bunch up and flex impressively. I watched in awe as he ran gracefully around the bases. The dirty blonde from before made it home and Jonathon jogged easily to second. I could tell he was taking it easy because he had a huge smile on his face. I could tell he loved playing the game. He had that same look in his eye that he had when he kicked the ball around with Jamie. It was pure enjoyment.
When the next batter striked out his team ran out to the field. Jonathon was catcher and he squatted down behind the base. He didn’t wear a mask or helmet, none of them did. I could hear his booming laughter often and I couldn’t move away. I knew that he would see me sooner or later and I shouldn’t be watching him but I couldn’t leave, not when I could see him so happy. Twenty minutes later I was still sitting on the bench watching the game. Jonathon’s team wasn’t winning but it didn’t stop him from having fun, that was clear on his face.
A short red headed guy was up to bat when Tasha barked loudly at a bird a few feet form our spot. Jonathon’s head snapped up and his eyes landed right on mine. I didn’t have time to blush because right then the pitcher threw the ball and it hit Jonathon’s chest. It wasn’t the pitcher’s hardest throw but it managed to knock the wind out of him. Everyone rushed forward to see if he was alright, including me. Jonathon’s body was splayed out in the dirt. I heard him groan and he clutched his ribs. I was standing over him and the players were watching me curiously.
“Jonathon? Are you okay?”
“Scarlet…” he moaned softly. I couldn’t help the smile that spread across my face when I heard him say my name. Tasha was out of my reach, jumping up at the players, trying to play with them. I kneeled down next to his heaving body and took his hand.
“Is he okay?” somebody asked.
“What was he doing?” a girl laughed.
“Should we move him or … are you alright Jonathon?” the pitcher asked.
“I’m… fine.” he breathed, opening his eyes. He looked straight up at me and grinned brightly. I giggled at his goofy expression and sighed, relieved. “Sorry everyone, I was distracted.”
His friends laughed at him before going back to their places. Another guy with brown hair took Jonathon’s position and continued the game. I stood up and helped Jonathon to his feet.
“Are you sure your okay? It hit you pretty hard.” I worried. He only smiled and nodded his head slightly, leading me over to the benches. I whistled for Tasha and she came running back form one of the joggers she had been chasing. She jumped up into my lap and licked Jonathon’s face. He still held my hand and I let him, enjoying the warmth of it myself.
“What are you doing here?” he asked me. I blushed.
“I was just watching your game. Im sorry, I shouldn’t have come.”
“What? Im not sorry, Im glad you’re here, really.” I raised a skeptical eyebrow. He got hit by a fastball because of me. “I just mean, you usually go to the other park.”
“I thought it was time for a change.” I replied awkwardly. I hadn’t thought of what I would say if he noticed me. I didn’t want to leave but I couldn’t take this awkwardness. I had to get it off my chest before I left. “Look Jonathon, I’m sorry for yesterday. I was so rude and I shouldn’t-”
“Scarlet stop.” he said. “You don’t have to be sorry. You don’t have to go out with me, it’s fine.” I could hear the pain in his voice when he said it. I frowned, I did not want him to think that. What else would he think though? I had told him that I wouldn’t go out with him. What else was he supposed to think? I shook my head at him.
“But I do.” I blurted out. I blushed scarlet and looked away, afraid of what happens next.
“Really?” he said doubtfully. I nodded, still not meeting his gaze. “Then let me take you out tonight.”
“Seriously?”
“Seriously. My buddy’s having another party and it should be fun. Please? If you turn me down I might not be able to show my face ever again.” he kidded. I looked up at his face and he smiled at me, begging me to go with him. A party? But I couldn’t really dance. I frowned. “What is it?”
“I can’t… I can’t dance.” I muttered, blushing brighter than ever. I grimaced and held back an angry growl when I heard him laughing beside me. “What!”
“Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.”
“No, really, I can not dance.” I willed him to understand. He stopped laughing to look at me.
“You can’t?” I blushed again and he took that as an answer. “It’s okay, Im not that great of a dancer either. So what do you say? Will you go with me?”
“Okay.” I consented. He beamed and said he would pick me up at eight. I agreed and soon after started my walk home. I had a date. A real date with Jonathon… wait a second. What was his last name? Great, I didn’t even know the guy’s name.
At seven thirty I finally gave up and let Alice in my room. I unlocked the door and swung it open, not bothering to call for her. She ran in and jumped in delight.
“Finally! Okay so you’ll wear this top with this skirt and with these shoes.” she threw an outfit at me. I slipped into the short denim ruffle back skirt, and pulled on the gray top that went with it. The shoes were simple gray flats but still cute. I put them on and turned around for Alice who immediately approved. Mom called me out to the living room where she was cleaning anxiously like she always did when she was nervous. I sat down. My stomach was in knots and I was scared out of my mind. I’d been to one party before and it ended horribly. Jacob showed up out of the blue when my mom let slip where I was and he dragged me out of there like a ten year old. I was fifteen and I was mortified. But there was no Jacob this time and I was on my own.
“Okay sweetie, be good and don’t drink. Don’t smoke and don’t leave the party until your coming home okay?” she fluttered around. “Take your cell phone with you and call if you need anything. Alice will be over here and we’ll come and get you if anything goes wrong and-”
“Mom!” I quieted her. “I’ll be fine. Don’t worry okay? Relax and enjoy your night.” I heard the buzzer go off. “That’s him, I’m gonna go, I’ll see you later.” I grabbed my bag and left the loft. Alice followed me out and into the elevator. I was about to talk when she cut me off.
“Okay listen,” she started, getting down to business. “just be yourself okay? Don’t worry, he’s going to love you even more and in this outfit? Whoo wee! He won’t be able to take his eyes off you. So just relax and have fun. If the party gets to wild just go see a movie. No, better yet, go on a walk because then you can talk. And if Jonathon gets drunk then leave his ass there because I do not want you taking care of him if he’s wasted.” she whispered. The elevator doors opened and she stepped back into the shadow. Jonathon was waiting for me at the door and I smiled. Alice stopped me before I left though. “But most of all, do not dance on any tables. Trust me, I’ve learned from experience that it gets you nowhere in life.” she joked. I whispered a thanks and left her behind. I was still giggling when I met Jonathon. He was staring down at my outfit with a dopey smile on his face. I smirked and he straightened up. I took this chance to check him out. He wore a pair of loose fitting jeans with a black v-neck shirt. He had a dark jacket on over it and he smelt really good.
“You ready?” he asked, looking down once we were outside. I nodded and stepped into his car. It was a shiny, orange Honda with two doors. That’s the basics and that’s all I knew.
“What kind of car is this?” I asked, impressed.
“A Honda Civic EJ6.” he replied. I nodded my head and he laughed. “It’s a speed racer.”
“Oh. It’s pretty.” I complimented. He chuckled again and I relaxed into the seat at the sound. “Tell me something.”
“Yes?”
“What’s your full name?”
“Jonathon Wesley James.” he replied smoothly. I played around with it in my head, it was nice. “What’s yours?”
“Scarlet Grace Cullen.”
“It’s pretty.” he commented. I smiled over at him. “You look great Scarlet.”
“Thank you. Your not too shabby yourself.” I noted. He laughed again. He drove fast but not dangerously so like Alice. He didn’t turn on the radio but wanted to talk to me. I was glad he was driving because then I could watch him all I wanted, not that he didn’t catch me at it every few minutes.
“So you said your from Washington. Tell me about it. What was your life like back there?” he wanted to know.
“Pretty much the same as here. Except you weren’t there.” I blushed but went on. “And there was less family and a few of my friends.”
“Who were your friends?” his voice was smooth and silky, I’d tell him anything if it meant he would talk to me like that.
“Cara was my best friend my age. Other than her there was Jacob but that’s really all.” I mused. Jonathon tensed for a moment and I didn’t get why.
“Jacob?” I smiled. He was jealous. I cackled cruelly in my head like a mad woman, I felt so powerful.
“My mother’s best friend and my Godfather.” I explained, watching his face relax. “He basically helped raise me after my dad died.”
“Oh. Oh I’m so sorry.” he muttered. “So why’d you move out here?” he changed the subject to spare my feelings and I appreciated it.
“My mom got a promotion. We didn’t know that the whole family still lived here, that was just a bonus.” He nodded but then seemed confused.
“So what? You didn’t even know your family?” he raised his eyebrows.
“I didn’t meet my dad’s side of the family until this summer. Alice hunted me down at Safeway.” I laughed. “My mother moved to Washington when my father died. I was only a few weeks old. We lived with my grandpa until now.” I told him my story, I told him about Jacob and all of the things we did together and I told him about my old school. But soon we arrived at a house with lights on outside. I could hear the music blaring and people talking. Cars were parked all over the street and kids were crowding inside.
“Huge, huh?” Jonathon murmured, taking my hand and leading me inside. I held onto him firmly, not wanting to risk getting separated. He pulled me through the crowd of people into a living room that had a group of people that I somewhat recognized. A few of the group had been at the park today, playing ball. They were all cleaned up now and smiled when we entered the room. I tugged self consciously at my skirt while we walked over to them. Jonathon squeezed my hand reassuringly before introducing me.
“Everyone, this is Scarlet.” he showed me off. “Scarlet, this is everyone.” I smiled and nodded in the general direction of everyone. They grinned and some waved. Jonathon offered me a chair and sat next to me.
“Hi Scarlet, I’m Hannah.” it was the tall, dirty blonde from the game. I smiled and shook her hand. “This is Tom.” she gestured to the pitcher. “Kristen.” she pointed to a small girl with brown hair. “Richie” the red head. “and Jeff.” a tall dark haired guy sitting with Kristen. I nodded, trying to remember them.
“Are you thirsty?” Jonathon whispered in my ear. I nodded and let him take me to the kitchen. He opened the fridge and held up a few things. “Sprite or water? Unless you’d rather have a beer of course, but the tap is out back.” I laughed and accepted the bottle of sprite. He got one for himself and joined me at the counter. The kitchen was empty besides ourselves, everybody else was scattered around the house. I could hear people upstairs and outside in the pool splashing around. Jonathon continued where he had left off in the car. He quizzed me about my life and I answered his questions. After a while I heard a song come on that I knew. I froze, listening intently to it.
“I recall a long farewell and a time to choose. So we part like rivers baby ya like rivers do. But I still talk about you oh and wonder how it is your life will unfold. Show me what it looks like, outside your window at twilight. Show me what it looks like.”
“You like this song?” he asked, standing up. I nodded. I loved this song. He took my hand and pulled me up. I hesitated. I told him I couldn’t dance, what was he doing? He pulled me outside where the stereo was playing. He pulled my arm up and set it on his shoulder. I let it rest there and he held my other hand in his. He led, dancing with me under the stars. It was incredibly sweet.
“Show me what it looks like, outside your window at twilight.” he whispered in my ear. I rest my head against his chest and listened to the hum in his chest. He continued to swing me around until the song ended. I pulled back a little to see his face. His eyes were closed and when the opened he smiled down at me. I felt completely comfortable and so right. I pulled back into him and danced in the grass.
I slipped off my flats and tucked them under a chair, out of the way. I spread my toes, feeling the grass and swayed with Jonathon. He held me tight against him before spinning me out. I smiled massively before spinning back into him. He chuckled at my face before holding me close again. I let him bend me back like in all the old movies. I giggled and blushed deeply when I heard others laughing too. I saw Hannah and Tom standing in the doorway watching us. I tried to pull away but Jonathon held me close. I tucked my head in his shoulder and he wrapped his arms around my waist. I breathed on his neck and I felt him shiver. I held back a laugh.
Slow and subtly he danced our way around the house, leaving any other spectators behind. He led me to a huge tree that had a swing hanging off of it. I sat down and he moved behind me. I tucked my legs under me and prepared to swing. He gently leaned down and kissed my neck before pushing the swing by the seat. I felt the air rushed past me and loved the feeling on my face. It was a cool night and felt wonderful. On the back swing Jonathon grabbed the seat again and held me there, hovering over the ground. He kissed my cheek before releasing me again with a little added force. I flew forward again and back. He paused me again and planted a kiss on my throat. I couldn’t keep the smile off my face. I enjoyed the rush and readied myself this time for my kiss. When I made it back to him he caught me and moved around so he was standing in front of me. My breathing hitched and my heart pounded in my chest. My stomach twisted and my hands itched to reach out and pull him to me. So I did. I grabbed his shirt and pulled his body against mine. His face was close enough to mine for me to kiss but I waited for him to close the distance. He hesitated and breathed his sweet breath on my face. I inhaled deeply, breathing him in. he was doing the same. One hand was in my hair and the other on the swing, holding me steady. He was standing between my legs, so close the suspense was killing me. Finally he pulled my face forward with his hand and kissed me gently. He pulled back and smiled before kissing me again. I relaxed and let him hold me up. I was barely hanging on to the swing so I tried to slide off. Jonathon caught me in his arms and held me up. My feet dangled a foot off the ground and I wrapped my arms around his neck. He slowly lowered me back down and pulled back, gasping for air. I smiled, pleased with the effect I had on him as well.
“Whoa.” he murmured, stroking my cheek with his thumb. I nodded silently, unable to speak. The path of heat he left on my face was amazing. Everywhere he touched left a mark. I wondered if this was how it was for my parents. Mom had said that ‘they had an electricity’. I wasn’t sure but Jonathon was perfect. He was just right for me. I took his big hand in mine and started rocking us back and forth again. I would’ve stayed there for the rest of the night kissing Jonathon but it was getting late and my cell phone went off, reminding me of the time.
“Crap.” I muttered, reaching for my phone.
“Time for us to go.” he spoke cheerfully. I watched his face and he seemed pleased. I was too, I just didn’t want the night to end. I walked back to my shoes with Jonathon and said goodbye to all of his friends before getting back in his car.
“Did you have fun tonight?” he wondered. I nodded mutely.
“It was great Jonathon.” I promised. “I’m really glad I came.”
“Me too.” he spoke sweetly. I watched him on our way back into town. He hummed a tune I didn’t recognize happily, glancing over at me every so often. The ride back was quiet, we didn’t need to say anything. When we finally pulled up at my building he got out and opened my door for me.
“Thank you.” he nodded and walked me to the door. I stopped with my door on the handle and turned back to him. I reached up on my tiptoes and kissed him soft and sweetly on the lips once, twice, three times. I sighed as I dropped back down on my heels. A smile itched at the corners of his mouth. “Goodnight.” I whispered.
“Goodnight Scarlet.” I smiled and turned into the building and disappeared upstairs.
Author: Samantha
Rating: PG-13 for now.
Summary: Sequel to My heart was across the street. Seventeen years later, Bella and Scarlet move back to Chicago where they run into long lost relatives…
Author’s Notes: Okay, here I am, late at night at my computer, again... I hope you like this chapter. Enjoy.. reviews are bliss.
This is a pic of Aaron Piersol the hottie. He is who I picture as Jonathon.. I can not get him out of my head. Well I hope you like this chapter.
Scarlet's outfit:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application?namespace=moreInfo&prnbr=9C-226636&cgnbr=OSCLOSKIVIL&moreInfoInd=largeView&dispMode=STANDARD&buttonClicked=btn_lg_view&selColor
(sorry, here's a link to it.)
Now for the story::
Part Four-
Mom didn’t bother me. She knew when to give me my space and when I needed to talk. I didn’t fall asleep until late that night. When I woke up it was still dark outside. I checked my clock, six-thirty. Peachy. I got up quietly to find my mom sleeping in my rocking chair. She had a blanket draped over her. She probably watched me sleep last night, weird. Her lips were moving softly, making it look like she was awake. I moved closer and heard her talking.
“Edward… take care….” she breathed heavily. “of… Scarlet.” I didn’t know what she was talking about but I found it really sweet that she was dreaming about dad. I sneaked out of the room as quietly as I could, making my way to the kitchen.
“Scarlet.”
“Alice!” I hissed. “You scared the crap out of me. What are you doing here?”
Alice shook her head, amused. “Bella called me last. She was worried about you. What happened?”
“I don’t want to talk about it.” I said truthfully. Alice stood up from the couch, glaring at me.
“Scarlet Grace Cullen. Don’t you start that with me. Your mother was worried sick last night. And as her best friend, it’s my job to fix that. Now don’t bullshit me, what happened?” my angry Godmother demanded. I was taken aback. Who knew Alice was so rough? No, not rough. Just protective of my mom. I sighed and sat down in the armchair off to the left of the couch. Alice sat too, still glaring.
“Jeez Alice.” I sighed. She relaxed with an apologetic smile on her lips. I held back my own smile. “I don’t know. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. Jonathon is so sweet and nice but Im just a mental case.”
Alice’s musical laugh floated around the room. I scowled at her and she composed herself.
“Scarlet you are not a mental case. Trust me, with a shrink as a husband you pick up a few things and you..” she shook her head. “are not crazy. You’re a teenager.” she acted as if that explained it all. I shook my head at her.
“No seriously. I like him. He’s cute, well that’s an understatement. But he’s so nice and sweet and smart and he likes me! Well, liked me. He asked me out and I said no. Why? Why Alice why did I say no?” I pleaded for an answer. Alice thought for a minute.
“Tell me exactly what happened.” she commanded. I nodded and reviewed the night before aloud. Alice listened intently, occasionally nodding or smiling. Sometimes frowning and that’s when it worried me. When I finished with my tale, she took my hands in hers.
“Scarlet listen. I think, and im no Jasper, but I think that you are worried that if you let yourself love, that well, your scared that what happened to your parents is going to happen to you. From what I’ve heard, Jonathon is a great guy and he’s stubborn. He’s not going anywhere. He really likes you and you can’t go living in fear that you’ll lose the ones you love. What happened to my brother was horrible, yes. But I know for a fact that your mother does not regret loving him for one second. Loving him made her happier than ever and it gave her you.” Alice brushed the hair out of my face. I thought it through. It sounded reasonable but was it true? Was I carrying around a fear that once I let him in, he would disappear? “And if Edward were here he would say the same thing. You have to let that go and give Jonathon a chance. He’s great. And if he hurts you then I would personally hunt him down and rip his throat out, so don’t worry.”
“And I’d help.” Mom said from behind me. I looked back to see her smiling down at me. Alice giggled and nodded enthusiastically.
“It doesn’t matter.” I stated. “I already turned him down more times than I can remember, he’s not going to ask me again.”
When I thought about it I knew Alice was right. I was carrying around my mother’s baggage, and I needed to stop. Mom moved to me and put her arms around me from behind. I leaned into her and breathed in her scent. She came around and took me more securely in her arms. I let her hold me. “I highly doubt he’s giving up now sweetie.”
“And why’s that?”
“I’ll never bet against Alice.” she assured me. I looked up at her face and she smiled. I glanced over at Alice and saw her grinning smugly. I raised an eyebrow questioningly.
“I have a feeling.” she winked. I rolled my eyes. How could she possibly know? She sensed my hesitation. “You’ll see.” I laughed into mom’s shoulder disbelievingly. She patted my back, soothing me.
Once it was light out I took a shower and got decent for the day. Alice had laid out another outfit for me. A dark pair of jeans that fit me well and a blue tank top. I slipped my sneakers on and took Tasha out for a walk. I was too mopey to go to the park again so I changed my route. I walked in the other direction in search of a new destination. Tasha had fun sniffing out the new spots. It wasn’t long before I saw another park, this neighborhood was full of them. Alice had taken mom out shopping today. I couldn’t take anymore shopping right now so I had all day to myself.
I walked up to the edge of the park to check it out. It was smaller than the other one and had mostly athletes working out. It had a large track filled with many runners that went around a small baseball field. At the field were a bunch of kids about my age, some guys, some girls. They were all wearing shorts and t-shirts in the August sun. I walked into the park, keeping Tasha on her leash. I wandered over to the benches by the field to watch the game.
A tall girl with dirty blonde hair was up to bat. She had short shorts on that complimented her legs and a bright orange tank top. I watched her swing the bat and meet the ball with perfect timing. It soared out past the end of the field and almost hit a jogger. Somebody ran out to retrieve the ball while she circled the bases. She made it to third base before they got the ball back in play and a huge smile was plastered on her face. I chuckled at the pitchers expression; he looker irritated.
The next player was up to bat and I gasped when I recognized him. His blonde curls gave him away before his face. He picked up a bat and tried out the wieght of it. When he approached the base he swung it a few times. He wore a pair of sweats and a wife beater shirt. His muscles glowed in the sunlight and I couldn’t help but stare. The pitcher threw the ball and it almost hit Jonathon. I stopped myself from jumping up to help him, not that I could’ve done anything. He smoothly stepped back out of the way and the catcher caught it. The next pitch went right to him and he swung hard, making his muscles bunch up and flex impressively. I watched in awe as he ran gracefully around the bases. The dirty blonde from before made it home and Jonathon jogged easily to second. I could tell he was taking it easy because he had a huge smile on his face. I could tell he loved playing the game. He had that same look in his eye that he had when he kicked the ball around with Jamie. It was pure enjoyment.
When the next batter striked out his team ran out to the field. Jonathon was catcher and he squatted down behind the base. He didn’t wear a mask or helmet, none of them did. I could hear his booming laughter often and I couldn’t move away. I knew that he would see me sooner or later and I shouldn’t be watching him but I couldn’t leave, not when I could see him so happy. Twenty minutes later I was still sitting on the bench watching the game. Jonathon’s team wasn’t winning but it didn’t stop him from having fun, that was clear on his face.
A short red headed guy was up to bat when Tasha barked loudly at a bird a few feet form our spot. Jonathon’s head snapped up and his eyes landed right on mine. I didn’t have time to blush because right then the pitcher threw the ball and it hit Jonathon’s chest. It wasn’t the pitcher’s hardest throw but it managed to knock the wind out of him. Everyone rushed forward to see if he was alright, including me. Jonathon’s body was splayed out in the dirt. I heard him groan and he clutched his ribs. I was standing over him and the players were watching me curiously.
“Jonathon? Are you okay?”
“Scarlet…” he moaned softly. I couldn’t help the smile that spread across my face when I heard him say my name. Tasha was out of my reach, jumping up at the players, trying to play with them. I kneeled down next to his heaving body and took his hand.
“Is he okay?” somebody asked.
“What was he doing?” a girl laughed.
“Should we move him or … are you alright Jonathon?” the pitcher asked.
“I’m… fine.” he breathed, opening his eyes. He looked straight up at me and grinned brightly. I giggled at his goofy expression and sighed, relieved. “Sorry everyone, I was distracted.”
His friends laughed at him before going back to their places. Another guy with brown hair took Jonathon’s position and continued the game. I stood up and helped Jonathon to his feet.
“Are you sure your okay? It hit you pretty hard.” I worried. He only smiled and nodded his head slightly, leading me over to the benches. I whistled for Tasha and she came running back form one of the joggers she had been chasing. She jumped up into my lap and licked Jonathon’s face. He still held my hand and I let him, enjoying the warmth of it myself.
“What are you doing here?” he asked me. I blushed.
“I was just watching your game. Im sorry, I shouldn’t have come.”
“What? Im not sorry, Im glad you’re here, really.” I raised a skeptical eyebrow. He got hit by a fastball because of me. “I just mean, you usually go to the other park.”
“I thought it was time for a change.” I replied awkwardly. I hadn’t thought of what I would say if he noticed me. I didn’t want to leave but I couldn’t take this awkwardness. I had to get it off my chest before I left. “Look Jonathon, I’m sorry for yesterday. I was so rude and I shouldn’t-”
“Scarlet stop.” he said. “You don’t have to be sorry. You don’t have to go out with me, it’s fine.” I could hear the pain in his voice when he said it. I frowned, I did not want him to think that. What else would he think though? I had told him that I wouldn’t go out with him. What else was he supposed to think? I shook my head at him.
“But I do.” I blurted out. I blushed scarlet and looked away, afraid of what happens next.
“Really?” he said doubtfully. I nodded, still not meeting his gaze. “Then let me take you out tonight.”
“Seriously?”
“Seriously. My buddy’s having another party and it should be fun. Please? If you turn me down I might not be able to show my face ever again.” he kidded. I looked up at his face and he smiled at me, begging me to go with him. A party? But I couldn’t really dance. I frowned. “What is it?”
“I can’t… I can’t dance.” I muttered, blushing brighter than ever. I grimaced and held back an angry growl when I heard him laughing beside me. “What!”
“Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.”
“No, really, I can not dance.” I willed him to understand. He stopped laughing to look at me.
“You can’t?” I blushed again and he took that as an answer. “It’s okay, Im not that great of a dancer either. So what do you say? Will you go with me?”
“Okay.” I consented. He beamed and said he would pick me up at eight. I agreed and soon after started my walk home. I had a date. A real date with Jonathon… wait a second. What was his last name? Great, I didn’t even know the guy’s name.
At seven thirty I finally gave up and let Alice in my room. I unlocked the door and swung it open, not bothering to call for her. She ran in and jumped in delight.
“Finally! Okay so you’ll wear this top with this skirt and with these shoes.” she threw an outfit at me. I slipped into the short denim ruffle back skirt, and pulled on the gray top that went with it. The shoes were simple gray flats but still cute. I put them on and turned around for Alice who immediately approved. Mom called me out to the living room where she was cleaning anxiously like she always did when she was nervous. I sat down. My stomach was in knots and I was scared out of my mind. I’d been to one party before and it ended horribly. Jacob showed up out of the blue when my mom let slip where I was and he dragged me out of there like a ten year old. I was fifteen and I was mortified. But there was no Jacob this time and I was on my own.
“Okay sweetie, be good and don’t drink. Don’t smoke and don’t leave the party until your coming home okay?” she fluttered around. “Take your cell phone with you and call if you need anything. Alice will be over here and we’ll come and get you if anything goes wrong and-”
“Mom!” I quieted her. “I’ll be fine. Don’t worry okay? Relax and enjoy your night.” I heard the buzzer go off. “That’s him, I’m gonna go, I’ll see you later.” I grabbed my bag and left the loft. Alice followed me out and into the elevator. I was about to talk when she cut me off.
“Okay listen,” she started, getting down to business. “just be yourself okay? Don’t worry, he’s going to love you even more and in this outfit? Whoo wee! He won’t be able to take his eyes off you. So just relax and have fun. If the party gets to wild just go see a movie. No, better yet, go on a walk because then you can talk. And if Jonathon gets drunk then leave his ass there because I do not want you taking care of him if he’s wasted.” she whispered. The elevator doors opened and she stepped back into the shadow. Jonathon was waiting for me at the door and I smiled. Alice stopped me before I left though. “But most of all, do not dance on any tables. Trust me, I’ve learned from experience that it gets you nowhere in life.” she joked. I whispered a thanks and left her behind. I was still giggling when I met Jonathon. He was staring down at my outfit with a dopey smile on his face. I smirked and he straightened up. I took this chance to check him out. He wore a pair of loose fitting jeans with a black v-neck shirt. He had a dark jacket on over it and he smelt really good.
“You ready?” he asked, looking down once we were outside. I nodded and stepped into his car. It was a shiny, orange Honda with two doors. That’s the basics and that’s all I knew.
“What kind of car is this?” I asked, impressed.
“A Honda Civic EJ6.” he replied. I nodded my head and he laughed. “It’s a speed racer.”
“Oh. It’s pretty.” I complimented. He chuckled again and I relaxed into the seat at the sound. “Tell me something.”
“Yes?”
“What’s your full name?”
“Jonathon Wesley James.” he replied smoothly. I played around with it in my head, it was nice. “What’s yours?”
“Scarlet Grace Cullen.”
“It’s pretty.” he commented. I smiled over at him. “You look great Scarlet.”
“Thank you. Your not too shabby yourself.” I noted. He laughed again. He drove fast but not dangerously so like Alice. He didn’t turn on the radio but wanted to talk to me. I was glad he was driving because then I could watch him all I wanted, not that he didn’t catch me at it every few minutes.
“So you said your from Washington. Tell me about it. What was your life like back there?” he wanted to know.
“Pretty much the same as here. Except you weren’t there.” I blushed but went on. “And there was less family and a few of my friends.”
“Who were your friends?” his voice was smooth and silky, I’d tell him anything if it meant he would talk to me like that.
“Cara was my best friend my age. Other than her there was Jacob but that’s really all.” I mused. Jonathon tensed for a moment and I didn’t get why.
“Jacob?” I smiled. He was jealous. I cackled cruelly in my head like a mad woman, I felt so powerful.
“My mother’s best friend and my Godfather.” I explained, watching his face relax. “He basically helped raise me after my dad died.”
“Oh. Oh I’m so sorry.” he muttered. “So why’d you move out here?” he changed the subject to spare my feelings and I appreciated it.
“My mom got a promotion. We didn’t know that the whole family still lived here, that was just a bonus.” He nodded but then seemed confused.
“So what? You didn’t even know your family?” he raised his eyebrows.
“I didn’t meet my dad’s side of the family until this summer. Alice hunted me down at Safeway.” I laughed. “My mother moved to Washington when my father died. I was only a few weeks old. We lived with my grandpa until now.” I told him my story, I told him about Jacob and all of the things we did together and I told him about my old school. But soon we arrived at a house with lights on outside. I could hear the music blaring and people talking. Cars were parked all over the street and kids were crowding inside.
“Huge, huh?” Jonathon murmured, taking my hand and leading me inside. I held onto him firmly, not wanting to risk getting separated. He pulled me through the crowd of people into a living room that had a group of people that I somewhat recognized. A few of the group had been at the park today, playing ball. They were all cleaned up now and smiled when we entered the room. I tugged self consciously at my skirt while we walked over to them. Jonathon squeezed my hand reassuringly before introducing me.
“Everyone, this is Scarlet.” he showed me off. “Scarlet, this is everyone.” I smiled and nodded in the general direction of everyone. They grinned and some waved. Jonathon offered me a chair and sat next to me.
“Hi Scarlet, I’m Hannah.” it was the tall, dirty blonde from the game. I smiled and shook her hand. “This is Tom.” she gestured to the pitcher. “Kristen.” she pointed to a small girl with brown hair. “Richie” the red head. “and Jeff.” a tall dark haired guy sitting with Kristen. I nodded, trying to remember them.
“Are you thirsty?” Jonathon whispered in my ear. I nodded and let him take me to the kitchen. He opened the fridge and held up a few things. “Sprite or water? Unless you’d rather have a beer of course, but the tap is out back.” I laughed and accepted the bottle of sprite. He got one for himself and joined me at the counter. The kitchen was empty besides ourselves, everybody else was scattered around the house. I could hear people upstairs and outside in the pool splashing around. Jonathon continued where he had left off in the car. He quizzed me about my life and I answered his questions. After a while I heard a song come on that I knew. I froze, listening intently to it.
“I recall a long farewell and a time to choose. So we part like rivers baby ya like rivers do. But I still talk about you oh and wonder how it is your life will unfold. Show me what it looks like, outside your window at twilight. Show me what it looks like.”
“You like this song?” he asked, standing up. I nodded. I loved this song. He took my hand and pulled me up. I hesitated. I told him I couldn’t dance, what was he doing? He pulled me outside where the stereo was playing. He pulled my arm up and set it on his shoulder. I let it rest there and he held my other hand in his. He led, dancing with me under the stars. It was incredibly sweet.
“Show me what it looks like, outside your window at twilight.” he whispered in my ear. I rest my head against his chest and listened to the hum in his chest. He continued to swing me around until the song ended. I pulled back a little to see his face. His eyes were closed and when the opened he smiled down at me. I felt completely comfortable and so right. I pulled back into him and danced in the grass.
I slipped off my flats and tucked them under a chair, out of the way. I spread my toes, feeling the grass and swayed with Jonathon. He held me tight against him before spinning me out. I smiled massively before spinning back into him. He chuckled at my face before holding me close again. I let him bend me back like in all the old movies. I giggled and blushed deeply when I heard others laughing too. I saw Hannah and Tom standing in the doorway watching us. I tried to pull away but Jonathon held me close. I tucked my head in his shoulder and he wrapped his arms around my waist. I breathed on his neck and I felt him shiver. I held back a laugh.
Slow and subtly he danced our way around the house, leaving any other spectators behind. He led me to a huge tree that had a swing hanging off of it. I sat down and he moved behind me. I tucked my legs under me and prepared to swing. He gently leaned down and kissed my neck before pushing the swing by the seat. I felt the air rushed past me and loved the feeling on my face. It was a cool night and felt wonderful. On the back swing Jonathon grabbed the seat again and held me there, hovering over the ground. He kissed my cheek before releasing me again with a little added force. I flew forward again and back. He paused me again and planted a kiss on my throat. I couldn’t keep the smile off my face. I enjoyed the rush and readied myself this time for my kiss. When I made it back to him he caught me and moved around so he was standing in front of me. My breathing hitched and my heart pounded in my chest. My stomach twisted and my hands itched to reach out and pull him to me. So I did. I grabbed his shirt and pulled his body against mine. His face was close enough to mine for me to kiss but I waited for him to close the distance. He hesitated and breathed his sweet breath on my face. I inhaled deeply, breathing him in. he was doing the same. One hand was in my hair and the other on the swing, holding me steady. He was standing between my legs, so close the suspense was killing me. Finally he pulled my face forward with his hand and kissed me gently. He pulled back and smiled before kissing me again. I relaxed and let him hold me up. I was barely hanging on to the swing so I tried to slide off. Jonathon caught me in his arms and held me up. My feet dangled a foot off the ground and I wrapped my arms around his neck. He slowly lowered me back down and pulled back, gasping for air. I smiled, pleased with the effect I had on him as well.
“Whoa.” he murmured, stroking my cheek with his thumb. I nodded silently, unable to speak. The path of heat he left on my face was amazing. Everywhere he touched left a mark. I wondered if this was how it was for my parents. Mom had said that ‘they had an electricity’. I wasn’t sure but Jonathon was perfect. He was just right for me. I took his big hand in mine and started rocking us back and forth again. I would’ve stayed there for the rest of the night kissing Jonathon but it was getting late and my cell phone went off, reminding me of the time.
“Crap.” I muttered, reaching for my phone.
“Time for us to go.” he spoke cheerfully. I watched his face and he seemed pleased. I was too, I just didn’t want the night to end. I walked back to my shoes with Jonathon and said goodbye to all of his friends before getting back in his car.
“Did you have fun tonight?” he wondered. I nodded mutely.
“It was great Jonathon.” I promised. “I’m really glad I came.”
“Me too.” he spoke sweetly. I watched him on our way back into town. He hummed a tune I didn’t recognize happily, glancing over at me every so often. The ride back was quiet, we didn’t need to say anything. When we finally pulled up at my building he got out and opened my door for me.
“Thank you.” he nodded and walked me to the door. I stopped with my door on the handle and turned back to him. I reached up on my tiptoes and kissed him soft and sweetly on the lips once, twice, three times. I sighed as I dropped back down on my heels. A smile itched at the corners of his mouth. “Goodnight.” I whispered.
“Goodnight Scarlet.” I smiled and turned into the building and disappeared upstairs.