From Different Worlds

By Heidi

“Jen, you ready yet?” Dawson asked as he looked impatiently at his watch.

“Sorry,” Jen apologized as she walked up to her boyfriend.

“It was worth the wait,” he remarked, looking at her appreciatively. Jen spun around quickly at his comment, showing off her outfit and perfect body.

“You know,” Dawson remarked, linking his arms around Jen’s waist. “I must be a pretty lucky guy. I have the prettiest and most sought after girl in Boston for a friend and girlfriend. Life is good.”

Jen laughed and walked towards the door. Dawson, being the dutiful boyfriend, grabbed her coat and helped her into it. Jen just smiled wryly at him and walked towards the door. They stepped out into the cool, winter night

“I called Joey and told her we’d met up with her later,” Jen informed Dawson.

“Why can’t we spend a night on the town and just have it be the two of us?” Dawson whined.

“Dawson,” Jen explained patiently, mainly because she’s gone threw this many times with him. “Joey is my friend, my best friend in fact. And I like spending time with her, especially since is Christmas break and I don’t see her in school. Besides, you know how my parents feel about her.”

“Yeah, she’s so middle-class,” Dawson remarked snidely. For some reason, he had never cared for Joey that much, even if she was friends with Jen. She just seemed so…beneath him.

“She’s my friend and that’s it. I hate how you get so snobbish sometimes. It can be really tiring.” Jen told him, and shook off his arm that had previously been slung over her shoulders.

Dawson sighed and apologized. “I’m sorry, Jen. I just wish sometimes that we could be alone.”

“We’ve lived beside each other for five years and have been friends for four. We’ve had a lot of time to be alone, and in the future, we’ll have even more. But, for now, I want to enjoy myself.”

“Sometimes I think that whole radical women’s movement thing has affected you too much,” Dawson remarked, but Jen just took his comment in stride.

Watch it, or I’ll just vote you out of my life,’ Jen said humorously.

They laughed together, the spat about Joey behind them.

Ten minutes later, Dawson and Jen met up with Joey and headed off to one of their favorite dancing clubs. They were being the radical teenagers, because none of their parents would approve of their nightlife. But, Jen’s parents were always busy working, Dawson’s parents were too wrapped up in each other to notice his absence, and Joey’s parents just were happy that she was getting together with people higher on the social ladder.

Dawson helped the girls out of their coats and they all sat down at one of the many tables. Soon, the music started.

Jen let the cool, snazzy notes of the jazz music wash over her as she started to gently sway to the music, lost in the moment. Joey and Dawson just looked at her, waiting for her to exit her trance. They were used to this. Jen loved music, jazz especially, and whenever it first started, she just let it envelop her and get her into a different frame of mind.

Dawson just looked over at Joey and shrugged. Coming to this club was always Jen’s idea. Neither of them saw anything special about it. But, they came because they both wanted to be with Jen. Joey smiled back at him and let out a little sigh.

“Jen, baby, you’re back,” a smooth voice remarked. “And looking fabulous, as always.”

Jen turned to face the voice that had addressed her. “Jack,” she squealed and threw her arms around him.

“Come on, babe. Let’s dance,” Jack remarked, pulling her onto the crowded dance floor.

Dawson and Joey watched Jack and Jen on the dance floor. They made a sightly couple and danced together fabulously.

“Don’t you ever worry about him?” Joey asked Dawson suddenly.

“Who, Jack?” Dawson replied, shaking his head in denial. “No. Jack’s cool. Besides, they’re just friends.”

Joey nodded and looked back at the dancing couple. Jen looked incredible, as always. She had the typical blond bombshell beauty, but there was an additional quality about her that was unmistakable and drew people to her, both guys and girls alike. They had been best friends for two years and Joey was thankful that they had finally gotten over their initial hatred of each other.

After the song was over, Jack returned Jen to her table and sat down to talk with the group. Jen had met him during the summer, when Jen first discovered this jazz club. Jack worked here as a waiter and had talked to Jen for hours that first day. They had instantly become friends.

Three hours later, Jen and Dawson were walking back to her house when her mother ran out the door, exclaiming, “Thank God you’re back.”

“What’s wrong?” Jen asked concerned. She had never seen her mother in such a state.

“Your grandfather had a stroke just about an hour ago,” Jen’s mom stated. “Your father is already at the hospital. Let’s go.”

Jen quickly said good-bye to Dawson, promising to inform him what was happening as soon as she could.

***

At the hospital

Jen and her parents sat quietly in the hospital waiting room, staring at the walls. Finally, the doctor came in to talk with Jen's father.

'Mr. Ryan is fine, for now. We're going to keep him under observation for another couple of days, though, just to be sure. But, go home and get some rest. You can come back and visit tomorrow."

Jen's father nodded and walked back to the rest of the family. "He's okay. Let's go home."

Jen’s mother nodded and immediately stood up to get ready to leave. Jen just looked between her parents in shock. "Can't we see him?" she asked.

Her parents looked at her with stern expressions on their faces. "Do not talk back, Jennifer Lindley," her mother hissed under her breath, so as to not cause a scene.

Jen hung her head, not in shame, but in resignation. She would come back tomorrow without her parents so she could visit her grandfather. She dutifully followed her parents out of the hospital and climbed in the car.

The next morning, Jen went over to Dawson's house early in the morning, telling her parents that she would be back later. Jen walked over to Dawson's breathing in the crisp morning air, feeling it enter her lungs. She knocked on the door to the Leery's and waited for someone to answer.

"Hello, Jennifer," Mrs. Leery said happily.

“Good morning, Mrs. Leery," Jen answered. "Is Dawson in?"

"Yes, dear. Hold on for a minute. Come in and warm yourself a bit," she said, leaving to call Dawson downstairs.

"Hey, Jen, what's up?" Dawson said, walking down the staircase to the front parlor.

"Grandfather is in the hospital. I'm going to go visit, but I just wanted to let you know what had happened."

"Do you want some company?" Dawson asked.

"No, this is something I would like to do alone," Jen answered.

Dawson just nodded and walked Jen back to the front door, giving her a kiss before she left. He watched her walk away, looking like a radiant sun in the early morning air.

Dawson and Jen had met a little over four years ago at one of the Leery's many parties. Even though the Leery's moved into the house neighboring Jen's for almost a year, they had never met each other. It would be a fateful night.

Dawson had been greeting all the guests that came to the party. It was a job that his mother quite often gave him, and he was becoming used to being the social host. He had opened the door after it rang to find a couple near to his parent's age and, by their side, was an angel.

That angel turned out to be Jen. Dawson was completely smitten by her beauty and poise. Her hair was shoulder length and softly curled around her perfect oval face. Her eyes were a beautiful shade of hazel and they were big and luminous. Dawson couldn't stop staring at her. Her face was beautiful, her body was perfect, and she simply seemed fabulous.

"Hello," Mr. Lindley said impatiently, waiting for Dawson to exit his trance.

"Oh, sorry. Hello, I'm Dawson Leery and welcome to our home," Dawson stated automatically, still staring at Jen.

Jen, finally noticing the source of his fascination was her, looked him in the eyes and smiled, laughing silently inside. She had gotten used, in the past couple of years, to guys being awe-struck with her appearance. She took it in stride, but often wondered if she would ever meet a boy who would look past her appearance and see the real girl inside.

Dawson grabbed their coats and abandoned his post at the door to watch Jen and her parents walk into the main room where the rest of the guests were mingling.

"Jen, dear, there seem to be no other children your age other than our young greeter. Why don't you join him so you won't be bored with all the adult conversation," Jen's mother commented to her only daughter.

Jen just nodded and left her parents. They always asked her to do this at gatherings because they were embarrassed by her intelligence. She scanned the room, looking for the head of blond hair that had opened the door.

Finally, she spotted him. He was off in the corner, looking at her. Jen just sighed and walked over to him. Hopefully he wouldn't end up being as boring as he appeared to be.

Surprisingly, after an initial period of awkwardness, Jen and Dawson reached an easy companionship with each other and ended up talking for several hours. Dawson was in awe by the range of Jen's intelligence. She knew subjects ranging from history to politics. Jen, meanwhile, was impressed by Dawson's unique blend of sarcasm and wit. They started hanging out regularly after that night and eventually Dawson asked Jen to go steady with him.

***

Jen walked slowly to the hospital. It was several blocks away, but she wanted the time alone to think. She felt comfortable in her relationship with Dawson, but she feared that both sets of parents enjoyed their relationship more than she did. Jen knew that her parents considered Dawson a good match for Jen, both physically and socially. Jen just didn't want to be rushed into a more serious relationship with anyone, including Dawson Leery. But, her parents were adamant that she remain within her class, and so far, Dawson was the only boy her parents had approved of, so she continued to see him.

Jen arrived at the hospital and got admitted to see her grandfather. She crept into his room, overwhelmed at the sight of him, lying so still on the bed. He suddenly looked so old and frail.

Jen pulled up the extra chair and sat down next to him. She picked up his hand, holding it gently, and smiled down at him. "Hi, Granddaddy," she said.

Jen's grandfather opened his eyes and smiled at his granddaughter. "Hi, sweetie," he replied.

The two smiled at each other fondly, thinking back upon their history together. Jen often thought that Granddaddy was the only one that really understood her and what she really wanted in life. Her parents didn't know that she had been an undercover suffragist, but she didn't hesitate to tell her grandfather. They always had a close relationship, but in the past couple of years as Jen started to struggle with her

parents and her identity, they had become even closer.

As the two were talking quietly, there was a knock on the door. Jen looked up to see a young man standing in the doorway. He had a striking presence and made a quick impression on Jen. She took in the quiet determination on his face and also the look of tiredness around his eyes.

"Yes?" she asked.

"Excuse me, ma'am, just wanted to clean the room up a bit. I can return later," he replied, looking down at the floor.

Jen looked over at her grandfather, who nodded. Jen stood up to go wait in the hallway while the young man performed his duties.

He watched her leave, averting his eyes whenever she glanced at him, not wanting to display his curiosity. Nodding to the older man lying on the bed, he started his job.

"She's pretty, isn't she?" the old man questioned off-handedly, looking pointedly at the boy cleaning his room.

"Excuse me?" He replied without turning around.

"My granddaughter. She's lovely, smart too."

"Whatever you say, sir."

"Names Michael, Michael Ryan."

He just looked at the old man questionably, wondering what he wanted.

"What's your name, son? I gave you mine, what's yours?"

"Pacey Witter, sir." Pacey replied.

"Okay, Pacey. Now you can call me Michael."

"Yes, sir," Pacey automatically replied then caught the stern look he was given. "Michael."

"Good."

Pacey just shook his head and proceeded to clean the room. Soon, he was done with what he needed to do and nodding to Michael, he left the room, only to bump into the granddaughter outside.

"Oh, excuse me," Jen said breathlessly.

Pacey just looked at her with unmasked contempt. Jen caught the look and was completely surprised by it, wondering what she had done to deserve it. She looked up at him questioningly, but he just continued down the hall, paying no attention to her.

Jen worried about his reaction for a minute, then slowly walked back into her grandfather's room, where he sat, smiling.

"Wonderful young man, don't you think?" he asked his granddaughter as soon as she sat down.

Jen looked at him, confused. "Are we talking about the same person?" she asked.

"Pacey Witter, the young man that was just in here," Michael replied.

"Granddaddy, he just gave me the worst expression ever. I don't think he likes me to much. What did I ever do?"

Michael just looked at him and thought to himself for a minute. "Don't worry your head about anything, my dear. I'm sure you will never see him again."

"You're probably right, Granddaddy. Now we just need to worry about you getting better and leaving this place."

"You're absolutely correct," Michael replied and gave Jen's hand a quick squeeze.

Jen left the hospital not long after these occurrences. She walked down the hallway of the hospital, looking empathetically at the people in the hospital, wishing, on some level, that there was something that she could do to help. She walked out the front doors and ran into him again.

"Watch it," Pacey told her. "That's twice today."

Jen looked up at him, determined not to be bullied by him. She put out her hand and looked him in the eye, saying boldly. "Hi, I'm Jennifer Lindley."

Pacey looked at her hand and asked. "Am I supposed to care who you are?" With that comment, he turned and started walking away.

Jen looked at the back of his head for a minute stunned, trying to decide if it was worth it. Reaching a decision, she bolted after him. She reached him and spun him around to face her, all traces of friendliness gone.

"Look. I don't know what is the matter with you, but why treat me like that? You don't even know me. You basically know my name and that I was visiting someone at the hospital. Other than that, nothing. And I don't deserve your contempt," Jen informed him, her eyes flashing and displaying her anger.

Pacey just looked at her and folded his arms over his chest, saying. "I may not know you, but I know your type."

"Excuse me?" Jen questioned incredulously.

You know, your type," Pacey replied, beginning to warm up to the topic. "Spoiled, little rich girl. Beautiful and empty. Only good on the outside cause there is nothing on the inside. Your type."

Jen just continued to look at him, even after he had walked away, wondering if people actually looked at her that way. It was a horrible way to be typecasted. She slowly started to walk away, replaying Pacey's harsh words in her head.

***

That Afternoon

Jen knocked on the door of the Potter residence and waited for the door to open. Joey looked surprised when she saw Jen standing there, but let her in.

"What's going on?" Joey asked her friend, genuinely concerned.

"Grandfather is in the hospital. The doctors are not entirely sure what is wrong with him, so they are going to keep him a couple more days there, for observation. I visited him today, and met this awful boy."

Joey learned in, perked at the mention of another boy in Jen's life other than Dawson. "What was he like?" she asked.

"He was completely uncouth. Mean-spirited and brimming with contempt," Jen replied.

Joey laughed. "I love it when you get angry, Jen. All that upper-crust schooling you've had comes out and you have this great snobbish accent to go with it all."

Jen looked over at her friend and asked, "Is that how I really appear?"

Joey stopped laughing when she heard the genuine concern in Jen's voice. This was something that was seriously bothering her. "No, Jen. How can you think that of me? Remember when we first met? I hated you because that's the instant impression I had of you. But, as I started to know you better, I realized that you have a distinct identity, aside from that of being a high society girl."

Jen smiled at Joey's warm comment and thought back to when they had first met. It was actually in school. They had a very small classroom and the teacher had asked Jen to sit with the new girl and show her the ropes. Normally, this wouldn't be acceptable in school, but Jen's teacher knew her personality and demeanor would put Josephine at ease and perhaps they would be good for each other. Little did she know that Josephine had a sharp personality that initially clashed with Jen's inner tranquility.

"Josephine, you may take the seat next to Jennifer," the teacher informed her new student.

Joey had scowled at the teacher before sitting down next to Jen. Jen had interpreted the scowl correctly, and leaned over to Joey, whispering, "She does that with everyone. Call us by our first names, I mean."

Joey just averted her gaze and looked staunchly at the teacher, ignoring Jen. Jen just shrugged, figuring she would have a chance to talk with her later on in the school day.

Later, at break, Joey was sitting all by herself when Jen and Dawson approached her. "Josephine Potter, meet Dawson Leery." Dawson smiled at Joey reluctantly. Jen had insisted on trying to become friends with their new classmate, but Dawson wasn't too happy about it. There were times when he detested Jen's overt friendliness and willingness to help out other people. Why couldn't she see how beneath them the new girl was? Sure, she was pretty, in a middle-class way, but nothing compared to his Jennifer. Jen was light, Joey was dark. Jen was his future, while Joey was nothing but a trivial girl who Jen just happened to want to get to know. It was so humiliating.

Joey just glared at them from where she was sitting, not saying a word. Jen ignored her silence and sat next to her, pulling Dawson in next to her. When Joey thought Jen wasn't looking, she glanced over at Dawson, gazing at him from beneath her lashes. He was gorgeous, in a classic, pure-bred way. Joey considered trying to get to know him better, forget the blonde, but noticed that when Dawson stood up, he leaned over and gave Jen a quick kiss on her cheeks, looking around first to make sure no teachers

were watching.

After Dawson left, Joey looked over at Jen and forced herself to make a conversation. "Are you two together?"

“Who, Dawson and I? Well, we've been friends for so long and then one day he asked me to go steady, and I said yes. It's a nice, comfortable thing. And, he's actually the only guy that my parents had approved of, so yes, we're together," Jen replied, smiling at the girl. "Tell me, Josephine, where did you live before coming to Boston?"

Joey glared at Jen and told her, snidely, "Look, do not ever call me Josephine. I go by Joey." After this statement, she turned and started to try to ignore Jen.

"Fine, Joey. But, let me tell you one thing. I'm going to make it very hard for you to dislike me." With that comment, Jen stood up and walked away, leaving Joey staring after her.

Jen and Joey looked over at each other, remembering their initial encounters and laughed. Thankfully, Jen had been able to win Joey over and they had become friends. Joey enjoyed Jen's company and was in desperate need of a close female friend and Jen loved Joey's outlook on life, a quaint mixture of viciousness and vulnerability. They complimented each other well and could often be found hanging out together, with or without Dawson Leery.

"I wish I could understand what was wrong with him," Jen informed Joey, looking depressed.

Joey hugged Jen and told her, "You know what. Don't worry about it. It's just one boy. Everyone I know thinks that you are wonderful. There's bound to be someone who actually doesn't."

Jen sighed. "You're right. I'll just forget about him."

Unfortunately, Jen couldn't forget about him. The image of Pacey Witter seemed to be blazed in her minds-eye, causing her to stop and wonder about him. He was an enigma. There was the underlying determination in his eyes and the cruel contempt of his voice and posture. One side spoke of kindness and compassion, the other was all about hatred and repulsion. Which side was the real him? Jen desperately wanted to find out.

After spending a restless night, tossing and turning, playing Pacey's words in her head over and over, Jen woke up to a dark, overcast morning. It would snow later on in the day, but for now, the clouds hung low in the sky, brimming with moisture.

Jen rushed through breakfast as fast as she could. Thankfully, her parents couldn't be pulled away from their separate offices, so she didn't have to deal with them this morning. She dressed quickly, putting on a dark blue dress and her long black overcoat, so she would be able to blend in better. She pulled the hood of her coat over her hair, hiding her trademark curls beneath a wool hat. She looked at herself in the mirror, examining herself critically before deciding that the transformation was complete. Now, she only needed to find him.

Jen walked out the front door and quickly made her way to the hospital. Once inside, she spoke with her grandfather quickly, informing him of her plan. Michael quickly agreed, mainly because he knew by the quiet look of determination in her eyes that she wouldn't be swayed from her stance. Leaving his room, glancing first one way then the next, she waited. And waited. And waited.

After waiting what seemed to be forever, Jen saw him making his rounds. He would go into each patient's room for a couple minutes then move on to the next. At the door to her grandfather's room, Jen noticed that he glanced around for a few seconds, almost as if he were looking for someone. Jen wondered what it was he was looking for, but he apparently didn't find it, because he walked into her grandfather's room, looking somewhat dejected.

Jen moved quickly to the door, waiting impatiently outside to hear if her grandfather would follow the plan. Thankfully, the room next to her grandfather's was empty, so she could duck inside to hide if Pacey left quickly. She leaned her head closer to the door, hoping to hear strains of conversation.

"Hello there, Pacey Witter," Michael said in a happy tone. "And how are you doing this fine morning?"

Pacey looked at him dumbly for a second then replied. "Have you looked outside? It is not a good morning."

"Oh, it is," Michael disputed. "Because I was visited earlier by my lovely young granddaughter." He looked pointedly at Pacey and smiled becomingly.

"That's nice," Pacey replied, trying to remain indifferent, even though his heart jumped at the notification that Jennifer had been here. He wished he could see her again, looking into those beautiful eyes, smell the crisp scent of her hair. But, it could never happen. They were from different worlds.

"Oh, it is. Jennifer is such a wonderful young lady," Upon hearing her grandfather continue to praise her to endless lengths, Jen started to blush. This was not part of the plan, but she couldn't stop him and there was nothing she could do.

Pacey listened to the old man ramble on about his perfect granddaughter, who apparently was the apple of his eye. She had to have some flaws, but to hear Michael put it, Jennifer was the epitome of perfection itself.

"What's the matter, young man? Don't like to listen to the patients?"

"No, sir. It's just that . . ." Pacey trailed off.

Michael looked at him and waved a hand. "Don't be shy, now. Continue."

Pacey looked down at the floor for a second and then looked over at Michael, saying in a burst of courage. "It's just that no one can be that perfect, sir."

Michael laughed. "Of course she's not perfect, young man. But, she is a good human being and I want to know why you hurt her yesterday."

Pacey looked down at the floor again, momentarily ashamed of both his behavior yesterday and his boldness with addressing the older gentleman. He knew that he should have known better than to open his mouth to a formidable man like Michael Ryan. No one had ever respected his opinions before, why should Michael be any different. "I apologize, sir."

"Don't take it so hard, son. I just wondered what you did to upset her. Normally Jen is a strong girl, but something you told her really hurt her. I'm just concerned, that's all."

“I suppose I did try to hurt her feelings, sir. I apologize," Pacey said quietly.

"Look at me, Pacey," Michael ordered.

Pacey looked at him and was astonished to see a smile on the old man's face. "Don't worry about it. She'll bounce back. Oh, and one more thing, Pacey. More likely than not, she's going to really surprise you. Remember that."

"Yes, sir," Pacey said obediently and walked out the door, the conversation running through his mind.

Jen, upon hearing her grandfather's last comments, ducked into the empty room just in time. Right afterwards, Pacey walked out of her grandfather's room, shaking his head. Jen waited until he was down the hallway and around the corner before running into her grandfather's room and giving him a quick kiss, telling him, "thanks." She then walked out, following Pacey, determined to try to figure out more about him.

Pacey had exited the hospital, his rounds complete. Mr. Ryan's room was the last on his list, so he punched out and left the hospital. He liked caring for people, but he wished the hospital administration would offer him more of a chance. He wanted to learn more about doctoring - his goal was to become one when he was older.

Pacey was so wrapped up in his own thoughts that he didn't even notice the figure trailing him since he left the hospital. Walking along, Pacey made his way into a part of Boston that Jen had only heard about, much less seen. She looked around in a mixture of disbelief and horror as she came closer and closer to what was more commonly called "Hell's Kitchen."

Thankfully, Pacey stopped and turned into an apartment complex a little ways before they had completely entered "Hell's Kitchen." Jen looked at the complex, noting the state it was in, but then realized that her options were to wait for him outside or to go up into the housing complex and see him there. She had wanted to know about him, so here she was. She realized that she was in a jam, but curiosity got the best of her, once again.

Jen walked up the stairs and opened the front door, looking around expectantly. And there, in the entryway, she came face to face with him, once again.

“Well, well, well. What do we have here?" Pacey asked, in a jestering manner. He leaned up against the old staircase and grinned at her, once again wearing that look of disdain. "Got ourselves a little rich girl lost in the bad part of town."

"I'm not lost," Jen protested, looking him square in the eye.

"Then what are you doing here?" he asked.

"What do you think I'm doing? I was following you."

For a few seconds, Jen had managed to crack that outer layer of harshness surrounding Pacey. He seemed surprised when she admitted that she had been following him. Following him meant that she was curious about him and his life. But, Pacey knew that she was in a part of a different world than him.

"Look, sweetie," he said, grabbing Jen's arm roughly. "I'll walk you back home, or at least till you're safe. Then I never want to see you around here again. Hell's Kitchen is no place for a girl like you."

"I don't need your help," Jen retorted, throwing off his protective hand. "I have always and will always manage on my own."

Pacey just grinned at her and waited. Eventually, Jen's bravado faded. She had never been in this part of town before and she hated to admit it, but she was scared. "Fine," she said, resigned.

"Let's get going then," Pacey said over his shoulder turning to the door.

"Don't you need to inform your parents where you are going?" Jen asked quizzically.

"Why would they care?" Pacey replied offhandedly.

"Because they are your parents."

"They've never cared before, why would they start caring now?"

"Are you serious?" Jen asked, bewildered about the state of Pacey's family life.

"Look, Blondie. I have seven other brothers and sisters, all my parents care about is trying to make it. As long as I keep myself out of trouble and earn some money, they don't care," Pacey said stonily.

Jen looked at him sympathetically, a look Pacey mistook for pity. "Come on, let's go."

Jen followed him out the door and started walking alongside him. After several moments of tense silence, she decided to break it. "What are you doing now?"

"Why, so you can pity me some more? Maybe consider yourself a do-gooder for the poor boy who cleans your grandfather's room?"

Jen could feel her temper beginning to be seriously tested. No one singular person had ever caused her to feel this much anger before. She didn't say anything, just continued to follow Pacey, but noticed when they passed by her favorite nightclub. "Come on," she said and virtually pulled Pacey into the building behind her. Pacey just sighed and followed her into the club. As much as he hated to admit it, this petite bundle of femininity intrigued him.

***

“Jen, dearie, what are you doing here? We normally never see you before nightfall.”

“I know, Maude, but I wanted to show off your place to a friend of mine,” Jen said, smiling at Maude, the owner of the club. “Is Jack around?”

“Sorry, sweetheart, he has tonight off. But, I can certainly get you a couple of drinks.”

“Thanks. Make it two of my usual. Is Tony in the back?” Tony was Maude’s husband and the resident piano player.

“Yes he is. Tony, get up here,” Maude yelled, causing Pacey to jump in shock. He was then surprised at the strapping man who came at Maude’s call. Tony’s face split into a grin when he noticed their visitor and he walked up to Jen, encircled her in his arms, picked her up and swung her around. Jen giggled loudly the whole time.

“Hi, tootsie,” Tony exclaimed. He picked up the two drinks that Maude had just given him and walked over to one of the tables, motioning the two to sit down. He then walked over to the piano and started playing some jazz and blues, which he knew to be Jen’s favorite.

Jen smiled when she heard the strains of the piano and looked over at Pacey, noting his incredulous surprise. All signs of pomposity and contempt had dropped from Pacey’s stature, and he was left looking uncertain and bewildered. Jen was not following his first impression of her. She was supposed to be snooty and snobbish, full of money and beauty but with no real face value behind it all. A girl like the one of his first impression could never love the blues or be friends with down to earth people like Maude and Tony. She was supposed to be superficial and now that he realized that she wasn’t, Pacey didn’t know what to do.

He picked up his drink and took a swallow, then started sputtering. “What in the world?” He muttered under his breath.

Jen smiled at him knowingly and asked, “What, a girl like me can’t drink hard liquor either?”

Pacey broke into laughter at her comment and, for the first time, genuinely smiled at her, saying, “You’re right, Jen. And, I’m sorry.”

“Forget about it,” Jen replied to his apology. “I just want to be friends.”

“Okay,” Pacey agreed, even though he knew that he and Jen could never be true friends. They were just from to entirely different worlds. However, he couldn’t help but dream that it would be possible.

Jen and Pacey sat in silence for a few minutes, listening to the sounds of Tony’s music. Pacey looked over at Jen and was astonished by the content smile and wistful look in her eyes.

Jen glanced at Pacey and noted the speculative look on his face. She felt the need to explain. “I found this place by accident one afternoon and one of the waiters, Jack, and I became friends. He introduced me to Maude and Tony, who own this place. I started coming here regularly ever since.”

Pacey nodded and questioned, “Why jazz?”

Jen thought about his question for a minute, contemplating the best way to answer him. “Truthfully, I’m not sure. Maude and Tony originally lived in the South, and when they moved here, they brought it back with them. The first time I heard it, I knew that, for some reason, it called to me, evoked feelings in me that I didn’t think I had. My parents don’t approve. Of course, they wouldn’t approve of anything other than classical and tasteful music, but I don’t care. I love it.”

Pacey nodded in understanding. He loved music and the different places it could take you. Unfortunately, he didn’t have that many opportunities to go to places like this and just sit and absorb the atmosphere. Not for the first time, he envied Jen’s easy lifestyle. But, he tried not to let the jealously get the best of him. He was sitting her, having a drink with a beautiful girl. He just sat back and enjoyed the experience.

Jen gazed at Pacey who looked more relaxed than she had ever seen him. She smiled, glad she was able to share this place and this experience with him. Jen knew that Dawson and Joey didn’t care for Maude’s, but it was a unique place and Jen was glad she had finally been able to find someone who appreciated both the music and the character.

“Jen, babe, what are you doing here?” A voice called out over Tony’s music.

Jen turned around and smiled at the owner of the voice. “Jackers!” she exclaimed, jumping up from her chair and hugging him. Jack laughed at her exuberance and twirled her around.

“Why are you here?” Jen questioned. “Maude told me it was your day off.”

Jack shrugged in response, saying, “I needed to come in and pick up my paycheck.” He looked over at Pacey, questioning Jen with a glance.

“Jack, this is my friend Pacey Witter. Pacey, this is Jack, the waiter-friend I was talking about.” Jack grinned at Pacey and offered his hand to shake, which Pacey took after an initial hesitation. “Glad to met you,” Pacey said. “Likewise,” Jack told him then pulled Jen onto the dance floor. “Come on, babe, let’s dance.”

Jack nodded towards Tony, who started a rousing jazzy swing piece for Jen and Jack. Jen just grinned at Pacey before cutting loose on the dance floor with Jack. Jack had started teaching Jen how to be a true “flapper” when she first came to the club, and they have been dancing together ever since. Pacey just looked at Jen in awe because with every movement, every gesture, every word the left her mouth, she was slowly but surely destroying his image of her. She was the true enigma. A society debutante who loved to swing dance and drink liquor. A dutiful granddaughter that didn’t hesitate about following him into “Hell’s Kitchen.” She was a sweet innocent girl juxtaposed with a sultry, sexy woman. She was the ultimate paradox.

Jen and Jack reappeared at the table, flushed and breathless. After saying a quick goodbye to the couple, Jack walked off to find Maude and his paycheck. Tony started playing a slow, sensuous song on the piano, evicting from the musical instrument strains of passion and emotion. Jen threw Tony a glance then looked down at Pacey, holding out her hand, requesting, “Would you care to dance with me?”

Pacey looked first at the hand then at Jen’s eyes. How could he resist her? “I can’t dance,” he stated matter-of-factly.

“I’ll teach you,” Jen answered, unfazed by his comment.

Pacey dutifully followed Jen onto the small dance floor, standing still while she placed his hands and arms in the correct positions. She put her hands in his, telling him softly, “I’ll lead until you catch on, okay.”

Pacey just nodded in agreement and concentrated on what was going on around him. This was a memory he never wanted to forget, so he worked hard, trying to etch each moment in time in his mind, to be replayed over and over. Jen counted outloud in time to Tony’s music, “One, two, three, four, one, two, three, four, okay, you got it. Now, let’s see how you move.”

She started to move and sway to the music and Pacey followed stiffly after her, struggling to follow her steps. Jen sighed and told him, “Look into my eyes, concentrate on how the music makes you feel, don’t concentrate on your feet, just let the music flow through you. Listen to the music, feel it, embrace it. Let it guide you, and you’ll be fine.”

Pacey looked into Jen’s clear eyes, becoming mesmerized in her beauty and uniqueness. He took a deep breath and released it slowly and tuned his ears to the music. Slowly at first, but with growing confidence, he and Jen started to dance to the strains of music flowing around them. Sensuously, he wrapped his arms around her, holding Jen tight as the music played around them. Continuing to look into each other’s

eyes, they danced as if they had been partners forever. Pacey could feel the melody inside him, opening his heart and mind to new possibilities and emotions. Jen listened to the steady heartbeat, noticing how the sounds of the piano and the beats of her heart chimed together in unison. Together, staring at each other with intensity and growing awareness of their feelings, Jen and Pacey continued to dance, slowly twisting and twining their limbs and bodies around one another. They became enveloped in each other, in the essence of the dance, in the amorous undertones of one another’s touch.

After the music stopped, they looked at one another, stunned and breathless. There, on the dance floor, they had given each other a fragment of tranquil beauty. Pacey knew that this was a girl that could steal his heart forever. Jen was bewildered by the feelings inside her. Dawson had never evoked such feelings; with him it was pure concern and comforatability. Jen began to feel a little guilty about being here with Pacey and not Dawson, but after awhile she realized that she was here with Pacey as friends and because he appreciated music. Dawson never would dance with her, no matter how many times she asked. She always had to rely on Jack before.

Jen and Pacey walked back to their table, nodding their thanks to Tony, who stood up and walked back behind the bar, giving his wife a kiss before going in the backroom. The couple finished their drinks then just sat there, looking at the table, embarrassed at what they were feeling inside.

Jen looked at her watch and exclaimed, “Oh my. I have to get going. My parents are going to be worried about me.” The last statement was a fib. Her parents never took notice of her unless she was doing something wrong. In actuality, Dawson was the person who was probably wondering where she was. Hopefully he wasn’t too concerned. Pacey just nodded and escorted Jen to the door, where they would part and go their separate ways.

At the door, Jen looked over at Pacey and smiled, saying, “We should do this again, sometime.”

Pacey nodded at her comment and asked in reply. “Are you going to be visiting the hospital soon?”

“Tomorrow.”

“I will see you then,” Pacey said, turning to walk away from her.

Jen watched his retreating back for a minute then walked quickly to catch up with him. “Pacey,” she called out. Pacey turned around, looking at her expectantly. “Thanks,” Jen said. Pacey just smiled in understanding and they stood there for a minute, smiling foolishly at one another before finally turning around and walking away.

***

"Where were you?" Dawson asked, his voice riddled with concern and fury. "I was getting worried about you."

Jen looked down at the floor, not wanting Dawson to see the look of longing in her eyes. "I visited Grandfather for awhile then just went on a walk to clear my thoughts."

"What are you not telling me, Jen?" Dawson continued, questioning her badgeringly.

Jen just shook her head and ignored his questions, but he wouldn't stop. Finally she looked up at him and told him, "I do not have to stand for this, Dawson Leery. While you are my suitor, that does not mean that I have to be at your every beck and call. I am my own person. Remember that." With finality, Jen turned around and walked out of the Leery residence.

Dawson started at her in disbelief. He was just concerned about her, he didn't believe that she was in this world only for his pleasure. He was just so afraid of losing her, so he jumped down her throat with questions. Somehow, he knew, he would have to make it up to her. If only he knew how.

Jen left, shaking her head and muttering under her breath. She stomped up into her house, not realizing her mistake until after her mother called out in a disdaining tone, "Jennifer, please try to be a bit more ladylike."

"Yes, Mother," Jen answered, then took over her outerwear before retiring to her room to think. It had been a very eventful day.

***

"Jennifer, I do not want you to visit your grandfather anymore," Jen's mother informed her over a late breakfast meal.

"Why?" Jen asked, wondering what was wrong now.

"I just can't stand the thought of a girl of your breeding going to such a dastardly place. A hospital, imagine the disease and infections running through it. I just will not have my daughter seen there," she answered.

"But, I want to visit Grandfather and see how he is doing," Jen protested.

"Do not talk back to me, young lady. I have made my decision and that's final," Jen's mother said in a stern voice.

"Mother," Jen started.

"Do not say anything, Jennifer. Your father and I are in complete agreement on this matter."

Jen hung her head in obedience. Her parents were so odd. It seemed sometimes like they couldn't care less what she did, but when they did care what was going on with their daughter, they mainly laid down rules and regulations that went against what their daughter wanted. Sometimes Jen wished that her parents wouldn't notice her at all, because then she could do whatever she wished.

After breakfast, Jen went over to Joey's, telling her parents that she was visiting a friend. Only once had her parents met Josephine Potter, but once was apparently enough. They had taken an instant disliking to her and forbade Jen to see her. But Jen couldn't do that to her friend, so she visited her in secret. At least Joey understood the situation and did not feel slighted.

Jen sighed as she walked to Joey's; remembering the look on her mother's face as Jen had tried to protest her command. Not only did this mean that she couldn't see her grandfather, she wouldn't have the chance to run into Pacey again.

Jen and Joey sat in Joey's bedroom as Jen told her story of what had happened yesterday afternoon and what had transpired this morning. Joey just listened, astonished by Jen's courage and tenacity. There was no one she knew that would ever step foot into Boston's bad part of town, but Jen had followed a boy she barely knew and had escaped unscathed. Joey often wished that she had Jen's bravery. If she did…who knew what she would do?

Jen, of course, didn't tell her best friend the whole story regarding Pacey. Their time at the nightclub was special and slowly becoming a poignant memory as Jen realized again that she would probably never see him again. She did go into a great amount of detail as she recanted the bickering between her and Dawson. Jen was glad that she had a girlfriend to discuss the boys in her life. There was no other person in the world that she would consider telling anything regarding Dawson about other than Joey and

possibly her grandfather.

"Well, why can't you go behind your parent's back again?" Joey asked. "I mean," she continued. "You went into Hell's Kitchen without them knowing, why can't you continue going to the hospital?"

"Granddaddy is going to be out soon," Jen answered. "But I would still like to be friends with Pacey, even after he leaves."

"So go there now and talk with him. I'm sure both Pacey and your grandfather will understand if you explain the situation with your parents to them."

"I suppose your right, Joey. I have no idea why I never thought of that before," Jen thought, perplexed.

"Probably because you have so much on your mind that you are not thinking completely straight," Joey stated.

Jen started laughing and impulsively gave Joey a hug. "Thanks, Jo. You're a good friend. How about the four of us go out tomorrow. I can meet you here about seven, after dinner with my parents."

Sounds great," Joey responded, eager to see Dawson again and wondering about this new man of Jen's. It would be interesting to see how Dawson reacted to Jen being friends with another boy, especially one from Hell's Kitchen. Of course, Jack didn't bother him, but this was a completely different situation.

***

Jen hurriedly left Joey's and walked briskly to the hospital, hoping to catch Pacey before he left for the day. She was in luck, because right as she was about to enter the building, Pacey was ready to leave. They met each other at the entranceway.

"Hi," Jen said, somewhat shyly.

"Hi," Pacey answered.

"What a . . . " "Look, I was . . . " They both said at the same time.

Pacey nodded his head towards her, indicating that she should go first.

"I was wondering," Jen started, then looked at the ground. She took a deep breath and continued, " I was wondering if you would like to go out with me tomorrow evening?"

"With you?" Pacey asked incredulously.

"Well, with my and two of my friends, Josephine Potter and Dawson Leery. We can just hang out or go off to some clubs, or something."

Pacey was genuinely flustered and ran his fingers through his hair with frantic, nervous movements. "I don't know. I mean, if it was just you it would be one thing, but with your friends . . .." he said, trailing off.

"I'm not embarrassed, why should you be?" Jen asked pointedly, getting to the heart of the matter.

Pacey looked away at her comment, an admission that her statement struck true.

Jen took a step towards him and grabbed his hand. "Pacey, I don't care where you come from, where you live or how much money your family has. What I care about is who you are. I had a wonderful time yesterday with that person. And that's what my friends will care about too."

Pacey thought about her comments and remembered how magical it felt to be with her last night. He knew she was right, but he was fearful of opening up more to her. He nodded in agreement.

Jen flashed him a quick grin of happiness then asked, "Where are you heading now?"

"Nowhere, anywhere," Pacey answered cryptically.

'Come with me to visit Granddaddy," Jen requested, holding out her hand for Pacey to take.

"Okay," he answered, taking her hand and holding it gently.

Both contemplated the different natures of their hands. Pacey's was rough and callused from years of hard work while Jen's were smooth and flawless, a reflection of her easy lifestyle. However, both were strong and competent. For being from two different worlds, they fit together wonderfully.

They entered Michael Ryan's room together, causing Michael to smile at the young couple.

"Hi, Granddaddy," Jen said and kissed her grandfather on his cheek.

"Good afternoon, sweetheart. Hello again, Pacey?" Michael greeted and welcomed the two.

"Hello, sir," Pacey replied automatically.

"I was wondering about you, Jennifer. Not that I was expecting you, but you mentioned visiting me last time you were here," Michael said.

"Sorry, Granddaddy," Jen replied. "I had a horrible fight with Mother this morning and visited a friend to calm down."

"Let me guess. She doesn't want you to see me," Michael replied to her comment.

Jen nodded. Michael burst into laughter, telling his granddaughter. "Don't fret, sweetheart. What your mother doesn't know won't hurt her."

Jen grinned at him. "So you'll help?" she asked.

Michael knew what matter in particular Jen was referring to. No matter how grown up his Jenny became, she would always be his sweetheart. He also noted the looks going on between his Jennifer and the young man, Pacey. He had met Dawson Leery last year and realized how suitable he was for his granddaughter, but he was only suitable on one level. It appeared that Pacey Witter was the man that his granddaughter was the most blissful with. He wanted his Jenny to be happy, and if Pacey Witter made her animated and glow with excitement, then help her he would. How could he deny his favorite granddaughter happiness?

"Of course," Michael replied.

"Thank you, Granddaddy," Jen exclaimed, giving her grandfather a big hug.

Michael smiled and gestured to the young couple, "Go have some fun, kids. I'm going to be released tomorrow, so you can visit me at my house."

Jen and Pacey nodded and left the room, promising to visit soon. At the door, they said their good-byes - promising to meet again tomorrow.

***

Jen walked slowly back to her house, thinking about Pacey along the way. She had a wonderful time whenever she was with him. He was so different than anyone else that she knew. She wished that she could bring him home to her parents, but she also knew that there was no way that her parents would ever approve of Pacey Witter. They displayed that when they first met Josephine Potter.

"Mother, Father, I would like you to met my classmate, Josephine Potter," Jen introduced her friend. "Joey, these are my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lindley,"

"Nice to met you," Joey had replied formally. She hated to admit it, but she was nervous about meeting the famous Lindley family. They were from "old" money and an influential part of Boston society.

“Hello, Josephine," Jen's mother said. "Jennifer, may your father and I see you in the back parlor for a minute?"

"Yes, mother," Jen replied, knowing better than to question her parents in front of a guest.

In the back parlor, Jen's mother turned sharply to her daughter and said in a scathing tone. "Don't you ever bring another person like Josephine Potter home with you. She is not worthy of our time."

"Why?" Jen questioned seriously.

"Not only are the Potter's only a middle-class family, all of their money comes from their restaurant and hotel. It's what we call, "new" money. They are not true Bostonians. Nor are she, what did you call her, Joey? Nor is Joey allowed to ever set foot in this house again. Now, go and explain yourself and escort her out of our residence."

Jen turned to her father and questioned him also. Her father nodded, signifying that her parents were united on this issue. At least her father looked at her sympathetically before turning away.

Jen simply nodded her understanding and left. She had walked Joey out and simply told her that she would explain more tomorrow. Thankfully, Joey had understood and walked back to the Potter residence. Jen looked over at Dawson's house, wondering if she could talk to him about what had just happened with her parents, but then she remembered that Dawson had a similar, but less drastic, reaction to Jen's growing friendship with Joey. So, Jen had suffered on her own and had continued to see Joey in secret. There was no way, not even the denial of her parents, that she would abandon a

friend. And Joey was very valuable to her, so she continued the relationship.

Jen was scared, however, because she knew that Pacey could become so much more valuable to her than Joey. She felt connected to Pacey on so many different levels and could almost understand and foresee his reactions. However, he could also continually surprise her. There were so many nuances to him and he was so different than anything she had ever known before, but in a good way. Whenever she was with him, she came alive and felt free to be herself.

Finally, Jen reached her door and noticed a not attached to it.

Jen -

Please forgive me for earlier. I will do anything to make it up to you and for you to forgive me for my behavior.

Love Always,

Dawson

Jen smiled when she read the note. Dawson was so sweet and was always worried about her. Sometimes it was nice to have someone be so passionate about spending time with you, but most of the time, Jen just felt stifled. She knew that Dawson really didn't like spending time with her and Joey when he just wanted to be with her, but Jen needed to be with other people also. Dawson just couldn't see that. Jen found herself wondering if Pacey would treat her the same way or if he would realize that her seeing her friends and spending time with other people wouldn't detract from their relationship, but, in fact, add to it. Jen caught herself in that thought and shook her head. She shouldn't be thinking that when there was no way that she and Pacey could ever be more than friends. There was just no way. There were too many obstacles and it would be to debilitating to actually accomplish. Thought, Jen wished it could happen. Maybe someday it could. But, now, it was just too hard.

Jen walked over to Dawson's door and knocked loudly. Dawson answered the door quickly, thrilled that she had come over. He invited her in, then ran into the kitchen area to retrieve something for her. Sprinting back, he held out to her an armful of wildflowers, her favorite. Normally, Dawson would tend to buy something more classic, like roses, but he knew that in order to be forgiven, he needed to do something more. He thought he could start with the wildflowers and work his way up.

"Thank you," Jen said, as she smelled the flowers, hoping that Dawson didn't have a whole slew of things planned in order to win her back. Her heart and mind just wasn't into it today.

"Dawson," Jen called out.

"Yes," he replied.

"I was wondering if you would like to go out with me tomorrow?" Jen asked.

"Of course."

"And a couple friends of mine," she continued.

Normally Dawson would have said no, but he also knew that it would mean a lot to Jen if he went. Thinking this could be another way to win her back, he agreed, thought not completely whole-heartedly.

"Great," Jen said. "I'll be here tomorrow around 6:45 or so after dinner. I should get back to my parents, however. I'll see you tomorrow." With that goodbye, Jen left, leaving Dawson to wonder why she had left in such a rush and why she had not given him a kiss goodbye. Worried, Dawson turned to back up to his room.

***

The following evening Jen stood in front of her mirror, turning this way and that. She had just made the dress herself, hiding it from her parents, and she wanted to make sure that it was ready to wear. The "Roaring Twenties" were in full effect and while Jen's parents wouldn't allow her to participate, what they didn't know wouldn't hurt them. Jen was suddenly happy that she and Joey had to take that sewing class in school. It had taught her a lot of tricks.

Jen grabbed her long, black coat to hide the dress and headed towards the door. At the door of her parents' offices, Jen stopped to say goodbye to her parents.

"Goodbye, I'll be back later on," Jen called into the office.

"Whom are you going out with?" her father asked.

"Dawson and a few friends," Jen answered.

"That's fine, dear. As long as Dawson is with, I think that is fine. Do not stay out too late," her father continued.

Jen left quickly, before her parents could change their minds or ask further questions. She really did hate lying to them, but sometimes she just felt there was no other choice. Perhaps one day, she would have the strength and courage to stand up to them, but so far, she still conceded to the majority of their wishes.

Jen walked slowly over to Dawson's house and rang the bell. Dawson answered quickly and they headed out to Joey's. At Joey's they went walked towards the nightclub, but stopped at one of the stores along the way, where Pacey was waiting for them.

He was nervous, not because he was going to be seeing Jen, but because he didn't know what her friends would think of him. He had tried to dress nicely, but not overtly so, he just hoped that he would blend in with the rest of them. He was pacing back and forth when out of the corner of his eye, he saw them all walking towards the store. He straightened his clothing and took a deep breath, hoping to calm down.

Jen led the group towards the storefront where Pacey was and, smiling softly at him, made the introductions.

"Dawson, Joey, I would like you to meet my friend, Pacey Witter. Pacey, these are my close friends, Dawson Leery and Josephine Potter, but she goes by Joey."

Joey immediately shook Pacey's offered hand, but Dawson was a little more leery about it. He prided himself on being well-bred, and he knew that Pacey was beneath him. It was so apparent to him, why couldn't Jen see it? It was in the callused hands, the worn clothes, and the tired look on his face. The knowledge that Pacey was of lower class than him caused Dawson pause, but then he also realized that Jen would think more of him if he accepted Pacey, even if it was just pretend.

"Hello," Dawson said as he shook Pacey's hand, trying not to wince at the roughness.

"Evening," Pacey answered, understanding on some level both Dawson's tenseness and air of superiority. At least Joey had been welcoming to him. And Jen had given him a wealthy amount of her beautiful smiles.

The four of them walked to the nightclub, moving quickly because of the chilly night. As they walked in the door and were once again assaulted by the music, the noisy people, and the smoke, Jen felt like she had come home. Pacey shared her sentiments, while Dawson and Joey just had the feeling that they were along for the ride.

"Evening, Miss Jennifer," Maude called out. "Hello again, Pacey. Oh, and Dawson and Miss Joey. Glad to have you here again," she said as she escorted them to a table. "The usuals?" she asked.

All nodded in affirmation and she went off to tell the bartender their drink order. Pacey glanced at Maude's retreating figure and marveled at the fact that she remembered him. It was always a shock to his system when someone paid attention to him and remembered who he was. He smiled at Jen and his face lit up with the action.

Jen looked at him and his happy expression and her breath caught for a quick second. He was already becoming incredibly special to her, and it had happened in such a short time. She looked over at Dawson, then again at Pacey. She didn't want to admit it, but she wished, at that moment, that she could be Pacey's girlfriend instead of Dawson's. Unfortunately, wishes don't come true.

Jack angled his way towards their table and set down their drinks. He leaned over and kissed Jen on her cheek, then shook hands with Pacey. "Hey, Pacey. How are things going?" Jack asked.

"Good," Pacey answered happily.

Jack nodded in answer then offered his hand to Jen, saying to Pacey, "You can dance with her next, but Jen and I always have the first dance."

Jen smiled up at Jack then proceeded onto the dance floor. Pacey's breath caught when he looked at what she was wearing. It was just a slip of a dress, made of red, slinky material that hung on her curves. She looked fluid, relaxed and at ease with herself. Discovering that he was staring, he looked over at the other two people sitting at the table, wondering how he could start a conversation. Thankfully, he didn't have

to worry for long because before he could think of anything to say, Jen and Jack returned to the table.

"Come on, Pacey," Jack said teasingly. "Go take the lady for another spin."

Pacey looked over at Jen and tilted his head in question. Jen understood and nodded in affirmation. They headed off to the dance floor, laughing and talking all the while.

As Jen and Pacey walked hand in hand toward the dance floor, a slow song came on. Jen smiled at Pacey, noticing his look of concentration and reassured him,

“Don’t worry, Pacey. You know this one.”

Pacey smiled at her, feeling his heart skip a beat. Her body was sheathed in a tight, flaming dress, her hair was softly curled and framed her face like a halo. And her face, it was perfect. She was beaming at him with happiness and her eyes were alight with pleasure. Pacey had never seen such a beautiful sight in his life, and he knew, at that moment, that he loved this girl.

Leaning towards her, he took her hand and they started to dance, moving together in perfect harmony. Quickly becoming enveloped in each other, they forget about their surroundings. Unfortunately, they also forgot about their audience.

Dawson stared at the couple on the dance floor, seething with anger. He didn’t know what was worse; seeing his girlfriend on the dance floor, being, in a lot of ways, intimate, with another person, or the fact that the other person was dirt poor. Dawson prided himself on his justification of how the world should be ordered, and having on of Boston’s socialites being mauled by a scrub like Pacey was, in Dawson’s eyes, unacceptable.

Joey looked over at Dawson in a sympathetic manner, noting his tightened jaw and clenched fists. She had anticipated this moment would eventually come, she was just surprised at how quickly it had happened. Dawson tended to be overdramatic at times and he could quickly become self-absorbed. But, Joey still had feelings for him. She just wished that there was a way she could erase the pain from his face. Shrugging, she turned around and gazed at Jen and Pacey on the dance floor once again.

Pacey held Jen loosely in his arms, thinking about the feel of her hand on his shoulder and his hand on her waist. He looked into her eyes, feeling the music sweep him away. Then, just was he was beginning to feel too much, the music stopped. He dropped Jen’s hand and stepped away.

Jen breathed deep and exhaled, feeling the air around her, thick with tension and emotion. Pacey made her feel too much, gave her the emotion of being incredibly and unbelievable special. She was not used to that feeling, and it made her head spin. Pacey made her feel completely different then Dawson did. She didn’t know which was better, but she knew that Pacey made her skin feel electric and made her blood pulse.

Jen and Pacey walked back to their table, oblivious to the daggers Dawson’s eyes were throwing their way. Joey quickly stood up and grabbed Jen, making excuses about visiting the ladies room. Pacey and Dawson just nodded, ignoring each other as best they could.

“What’s up, Joey?” Jen asked. “You sure wanted me out of there in a hurry.”

Jen just nodded and shoved Jen into the ladies room, shutting the door behind them and getting straight to the point.

“Dawson is mad at you, Jen.”

“Why?” Jen asked, genuinely baffled at Joey’s statement.

“Because of Pacey,” Joey answered then continued when Jen looked at her blankly. “Dawson is your boyfriend. Don’t you think he would be a bit upset about seeing his girlfriend dance with someone else in front of him.”

“Whatever do you mean, Joey. Dawson has seen Jack and I dance all the time.”

“You’re right, but he has never seen, nor does he ever want to see, you dance with Pacey Witter.”

A light dawned for Jen and she realized with finality what Joey was talking about. “It’s not really because it’s Pacey, it’s because of who Pacey is, right?”

Joey nodded with sadness. She knew that there was no way that Jen would defy Dawson, even though she might want to. There was too much history between them, and her parents had given their full approval. Jen had confided to Joey not that long ago that Dawson was planning on proposing sometime within the next couple of months. Although they were young, Jen’s parents had approved, feeling that Dawson was a suitable and comfortable match for their daughter. Joey had to hide her heartbreak, but knew that there was nothing she could do to change the way life and society worked. Dawson was out of her league.

Jen walked to the door of the bathroom and headed back into the crowd, pausing for a minute, watching Dawson and Pacey through the smoky haze. There, in front of her, was a decision. And, she knew which way she had to go. It was the same path she had always chosen. Straightening her shoulders she started walking towards the table. Then, she noticed Pacey turning toward her, smiling at her. Dawson, noticing Pacey’s gaze, turned toward Jen also and glared at her, almost mocking her. Jen could feel herself begin to choke up and she abruptly turned away and headed toward the door, practically running in order to escape.

Pacey started to get up from the table when he realized what she was doing. Dawson put a restraining hand on his arm and sat him back down.

“You’re not worth her,” he said contemptuously.

Pacey stared incredulously at Dawson, but then sank his head toward his chest in shame, realizing the truth. Then, he remembered Jen’s words to him outside of the hospital and the welcoming manner he had been treated. He looked up and saw Jack, Maude, and Tony looking at him. It was there that he knew that he needed to finally, for the girl he knew he loved, take a stand.

“What gives you the right to decide her fate and her worth?” Pacey asked Dawson, throwing off his hands.

“Because she is my girlfriend,” Dawson answered snidely.

“Do you love her?” Pacey asked suddenly.

Dawson just stared at him in shock. “What do you mean, do I love her? Of course I do.”

Pacey just nodded and asked, “Do you love her, or the image of her?”

“The image is her,” Dawson answered.

“That’s what I thought,” Pacey replied. “One more question, golden-boy. Why aren’t you running after her right now, if you love her and care about her?”

Dawson just sputtered, not having an answer. Pacey nodded and walked away, out the door, in search of a girl he knew he cared for deeply. But, he also didn’t know where to go to find her.

He stood outside, breathing the cold, night air and contemplated his options. For some reason, he knew that Jen wouldn’t go back to her parents house. He didn’t know why he knew this, but he did.

He stuck his hands in his pockets and felt something there. He pulled out the piece of paper and looked at it quizzically, then remembered.

“Pacey, hold up a minute,” Michael Ryan told Pacey as he was getting ready to leave the room.

“Yes, Michael?” Pacey asked, sitting down on the spare chair and looking up at Michael Ryan.

“If you ever need anything, come over,” Michael stated and held out to Pacey a piece of paper with his address and phone number listed on it.

“What is this for?” Pacey asked.

“You have made my granddaughter smile again, a sight that is so lovely for me to behold. You make her happy, and because of that, I want to help you. This is not a charity case, young man,” Michael stated when he noticed that Pacey was about to protest. “It is in appreciation. Take it, and remember that the offer is always open.”

Pacey unfolded the paper and looked at the address. “1793 Woodland Terrace. Well, it’s a start.” Pacey thought to himself.

Running, he started off in the direction of Jen’s grandfather’s house. He made it there in under fifteen minutes and stood staring at the front door, breathing hard from his exertion. Now that he was here, he didn’t know what to do. He was, once again, at a lose.

He sat down on the doorstep and looked out on the Boston night. From his vantage point, he could see the lights of the city and knew that even if he loved Jen, he could never fit into her world, and she could never become part of his. He ran her in the foolish hopes that she would feel the same way towards him, and there, in front of Michael’s house, he realized that no matter how they might feel toward each other, they could never be together.

Resigned, and sighing deeply, Pacey looked at his feet for a minute, wanting to hold onto his dream for a second longer before heading back into the city. Then, with conviction, he stood up.

Just then, the door opened, and there she was, standing in the doorway, framed by the light of the inside house. Pacey turned around at the sound of the door opening and stared at her in shock. He figured that he could come to Michael’s and ask around to see where Jen might be hiding. He never, in a million worlds, imagined that she would be here.

“Hi,” Jen said softly, stepping out into the night and closing the door behind her.

Pacey just nodded a greeting, hearing with finality the click of the door behind Jen. This was the turning point he knew.

Jen stuck her hands in the pockets of her grandfather’s coat and walked slowly down the steps. As she neared him, Pacey started to inch away, struggling to remember his promise to leave, to remain in their prospective worlds.

Jen noticed his movements and caught his hand in hers quickly, understanding on some level the look of discomfort on his face. “Can we talk?” she asked.

Pacey nodded again and they sat down together on the steps, looking out. Jen took a deep breath and pointed out to the city in one direction, “That’s where I live,” she commented then continued, “and that’s where you live,” pointing off into a different direction.

Pacey nodded a third time, still remaining mute and listened to Jen as she continued. “I thought that those differences didn’t matter, but apparently they do. To Dawson, and to you.”

Pacey turned to face her and started to voice his denial.

Jen shook her head at him and stated, “It’s true. You were going to leave without talking to me. I know that. You had resigned yourself to the fact that we’re too different to be together.”

“Jen,” Pacey started then paused. “It’s not just that we’re different, it’s the fact that we come from two different worlds. And, those worlds will never combine.”

“Perhaps you’re right, but what if you were wrong?” Jen asked.

“I’m not, Jen. And that’s the problem.”

“And if I told you that the differences don’t matter to me?”

“What if we did get together, what then?” Pacey asked angrily. He pushed himself up off the doorstep and began to pace in front of the house. “How would we manage? Let’s just think for a minute of the long-term consequences. I have no money, Jen. None. Nothing. I want to be a doctor, but how can I even begin to manage that? I can’t afford to go to school. I am going to be poor for the rest of my life. This is as high as the ladder gets for me. And you,” he stated, pointing at her. “You’re at the top of the ladder. The world is yours for the taking. And, I wouldn’t be able to live with myself because I know that I would be the one holding you back from accomplishing all of your dreams.”

Jen looked up at him and asked, “And if you are my dream?”

Pacey looked at her dumbfounded and confused. Jen stood up and walked over to him. “Pacey, I know what you are saying. And I know where you are coming from. Do you think that I haven’t thought about all of this already? Do you really think that I would just run into this headfirst without thinking how it is going to affect my life? I have thought about it. And I realized something.” Jen paused and looked off toward the city.

‘When I am with you, I am whole and alive. I have never felt that way before in my life. I could spend the rest of my life with Dawson Leery and never feel that excitement and sense of adventure. I could follow the path that my parents had already mapped out for me and know that I have left behind me something important and worthwhile. And, I can’t live with myself if I don’t take that chance.”

Jen turned to Pacey and took his hands in hers. “Pacey, don’t ask me how it happened, don’t ask me to quote specifics, but I think I’m in love with you.”

“Think or know?” Pacey asked playfully, putting his arms around her.

“I know,” Jen answered then stated. “And I haven’t even kissed you yet.”

“Well, we’re going to have to take care of that,” Pacey replied and leaned towards her.

And there, in front of Michael Ryan’s house, Jen and Pacey moved their heads closer and met in a sweet kiss, full of emotion. As they continued to kiss, it started to snow softly.

There, in the gently falling snow, two worlds collided and became one. It would not be easy and there would be times of confusion and anger, but love would always, above all, prevail.

The End