Rory shut the door and headed straight for the telephone. She hastily dialed a number and waited impatiently for a ring. After what seemed like eons for Rory someone picked up. “Hi Lane?” “Rory! Hey how you doing?” Lane’s voice was filled with sympathy. “Fine, surprising. I was wondering if you could come over we need to talk.” “Sure. I’ll be there in a jiffy.” Rory paced back and forth across the entrance way. She bit her bottom lip off and on as thoughts collided in her head. *This is insane. I wanted him to kiss me. I only broke up with Dean yesterday. What happened? We use to me mortal enemies and now we’re almost all over each other.* Thump. Thump. Thump. Lane walked in to find Rory rupturing her head on the wall. “Oh Rory.” She dragged her away from the wall. “Lorelai warned me about that. What’s up?” “Ok, brace yourself.” The both flopped down on the couch. “Braced.” Lane grabbed tightly onto a pillow. “You know how Tristan...” “Evil Tristan? What did he do now?” “He almost kissed me....” Lane threw the pillow across the room. “I’m gonna smash his face in. He has no right to do that. You are dating Dean. What did he think...” “Lane! I’m surprised at you.” She sat back down. “Sorry about that. I don’t know what came over me.” “It’s ok. Lane, I broke up with Dean yesterday.” “That explains why he was so mopey today. I didn’t...” “Lane!” “Oh, yeah.” “Stop rambling.” “Sorry....so back to your evil Tristan problem.” She went and picked up the pillow and sat back down. “Well he gave me a ride home today and before I got out he almost kissed me.” “That evil, deceitful, chauvinistic....” “Lane!” “Sorry again.... Continue.” “The thing is.... I wanted him to kiss me.” “What!?!” Lane shot out of her seat and began pacing. “How on earth did that happen?” “That’s why I called you over.” Rory huddled herself into the corner of the couch. “I don’t know what’s come over me. One minute I hate him.... the next I can’t help but think of what it would feel like to be in his arms. I’m so confused.” A single tear rolled down her cheek. Lane went to her and swept her into a hug. “It’s ok Rory. We’re teens, confusion is a fact of life for us.” Rory softly cried on her shoulder. Lane just held her. “Sit down and tell me the story from the beginning.” Two hours later Lane, Rory, and Lorelai, who had noticed the pair earlier, were all sitting about the living room. Used tissues were scattered on the floor and every eye held remnants of tears. Tears over a lost relationship, tears over changes and new frontiers. “So now I think I may actually like him... but I don’t know if he likes me. The only thing I have to go on is that little tidbit grandma talked about, and I don’t even know if that was over me. I just want to know what to do.” Lorelai comforted Rory by rubbing her back in slow circles. “Well.... I can tell you that only time will tell. Just wait it out. Things will become clearer. Your emotions are just dead because of all the new things that have happened. Just wait and see.” “Or...” Lane piped up. “You could just plant one on him and see what happens.” Rory laughed through her tears. “I don’t think so Lane. You may be living vicariously through me, but I’m not that bold.” “Well, phooey then. Who else will boldly go where I haven’t? “The starship enterprise.” Lorelai smirked. *My baby is growing up. She’ll know soon. Those two can’t act like this forever.* *** “So here’s the deal...” Tristan said as he sauntered up to Rory, with coffee cup in hand. “Coffee!” Rory grabbed for the cup, but Tristan pulled it out of her reach. “Hold your horses.” Rory pouted and stared longingly at the beverage in Tristan’s outstretched hand. “First of all... don’t I get a ‘Good Morning?’” “Good morning.” Rory tried for the coffee once more. She lunged at Tristan, using his chest as support as she grabbed for the coffee. She soon realized what she was doing when Tristan’s eyes made contact with her. Sparks. She backed off and muttered a sorry. “You really want this coffee don’t you.” Rory just nodded her head as she bit on her bottom lip. “You really, really, really, want this.” Another nod. “Just looking at it makes you weak.” Nod. “I’ll give it to you.....” Rory smiled expectantly. “If....” Tristan trailed off. “If what?” “If the Sunday night after we present our project you agree to go with me to the Hartford Fair.” *Ok DuGray this is it. I hope she says yes. Please let her say yes.* Rory bit her bottom lip. “Ummmm...” “Please Rory.” Tristan stuck out his bottom lip and attempted to look innocent. “Ok.... now fork over that cup or feel the wrath of a caffeine addict.” Tristan handed it to her as he smiled triumphantly. “I’d rather not be in pain. Walk you to class?” Tristan cocked his head in the direction of their first period class. “Sure.” That afternoon they met up in the Chilton library. The room was dark except for a few scattered desk lamps that lit up only a few spots. Rows of old books gave the room a musty yet pleasing smell. Small patches of dust floated through the air and were highlighted by the afternoon light that was streaming through the windows. Rory and Tristan both set their book down on a vacant table and went in search of research material. In a few short minutes the wooden table was covered. “I think that’s enough.” Rory dusted her hands off and sat down. Tristan had already begun to pour over pages in an encyclopedia. Rory studied his downturned face instead of a book. His eyes raced intently across the pages as he digested every written word. Every once in awhile he licked his bottom lip. *What would it be like to kiss those lips? Rory! Oh my God, you did not just think that.... ok you did. So what would it be like?* Tristan ran a hand through his hair and proceeded to massage the back of his neck. Rory admired his broad, muscular shoulders. *Ok, need a cold shower now! Where’s the water. It’s hot in here. Dear lord... he just unbuttoned another button. I need air.* Tristan had indeed undone another button in an attempt to become more comfortable. However, this action had given Rory a more than opulent view of his chest. She let out a slight gasp which caused Tristan to look up at her. “What?” He stared innocently at her. “Nothing... just a little... stuffy in here...that’s all.” Rory sat down. “Ok.” Tristan went back to him book. Full well knowing that Rory had been checking him out. *Maybe I am getting somewhere.* The pair worked for a good three and a half hours before someone spoke up again. “Those opposed to Roe versus Wade say that abortion is murder, because a fetus is a living being.” Tristan leaned toward Rory as she copied material down. “True, but those that support it say a fetus has never been declared living, and thus is not subject to the murder laws.” “Abortion costs the country millions of dollars in medical aid.” Rory picked her head up and glared at him. She knew he was trying to pick a fight. “If the decision is revoked then it will cost billions in government aid to care for those who receive botched abortions, money to keep those who ignore the law in jail, and more money to take care of the millions of babies that will be abandoned.” Rory crossed her arms and leaned confidently back against the chair. “Well... Abortion.... ummm.... shit.” “First round and all ready tapped.” Rory copied Tristan’s smirk. “Looks like someone is feeling confident today.” Tristan closed the book he was reading. “I am.” “May I ask way?” “You may ask, I may not respond.” Tristan chuckled. “Why?” “Because.” “Is that all I’m going to get.” “Yes.” “Ok.” They went back to their work. But soon Rory became frustrated. She let out a groan and thumped her head on the table. “What the...” Tristan looked up to find Rory’s head on the table. “I see.” Thump. “Rory...what are you doing?” “What does it look like I’m doing?” “I see.... well why are you doing it?” “It helps me think.” “I though doing that killed brain cells.” “If it does then oh well.” Thump. Tristan stood and walked to her side of the table. Thump. “Stop that.” Thump. “No.” Thump. “Please.” Tristan was starting to think Rory was actually hurting herself.. “I’d rather not.” Thump. “Rory.” Thump. Tristan couldn’t take it any more. He placed his hands on either side of Rory’s face and made her look at him. “You’re going to hurt....” Tristan never finished his sentence. The situation had become too akward. They just stared at each other. The air stood still. Tristan licked his lips as Rory bit on her bottom one. Neither one made a move. The intimacy of Tristan’s contact made Rory’s breath catch in her throat. Both wanted the kiss to happen, but there was still no movement. It was still to soon, and neither one knew the other was ready. Tristan slowly removed his hands from Rory’s cheeks. She missed the warmth. “I think we’re done.” Rory murmured. “Yeah, I guess. See you tomorrow.” “See ya.” Rory watched as Tristan walked out. Thump. *** “Hey Luke. Coffee Please...ooh.. and one of those delicious looking muffins.” Rory said as she waltzed through the door. “What’s made you so happy? Or do I not want to ask?” Luke set a mug a muffin down in front of her. “Not what... who.” Lorelai walked in just as Rory was about to explain the situation. “Who what?” Rory grinned as she sipped her coffee. Luke place a mug in front of Lorelai...without a fight. Both adults stared intently as Rory prepared herself. “Well... you know how Tristan...” “Tristan!” Luke interrupted. “Do I need to go sumo on him?” “No Luke... let Rory finish the story.” Lorelai glared at her friend. “Any ways, Tristan and I have been working on this project for history. During the past few weeks we’ve actually become friends, but...” “But...” Lorelai tapped her hand on the counter impatiently. “I thought I had... make that... I do have feelings that border beyond friendship for him, and today I think I’ve discovered that he may like me too... though I’m still not sure.” Lorelai smiled. *And so it begins. Finally that girl noticed something.* “Would I like this ‘new’ Tristan? Does he still treat you like a second class citizen... because if he even thinks of harming one innocent hair on your head, I will have his body stuffed for my mantle.” “Don’t worry Luke. He’s different. Not only has he been treating me like an actual friend, but his entire demeanor has changed. Sure he can still be cocky, but in a way, that’s attractive.”At this comment Lorelai spit out her coffee, and frowned. *Poor coffee. I’m sorry... wait... Rory said something that made you do that....* “You find that aspect of his personality attractive? A few weeks ago you that was the worst part about him. I’ll say things have changed.” Rory giggled at her mother’s perplexed. “It grows on you.” Lorelai raised one eyebrow. “Back to a question I should have asked. What makes you think that he likes you?” “Well.... we almost kissed...twice.” There went more of Lorelai’s coffee. *Oh.. not again...* “What!?! When, where, how!” Lorelai was staring intently at Rory’s amused face. “Yesterday and Today, in a car and in the library, and just cause.” “Well, why on earth did you not go for it? That boy is hot. Especially with those arm muscles that I know are hidden under that J. Crew exterior.” Rory blushed. *He does have nice arms... among other things.* “I wanted to, but... I really don’t know what was stopping him. He was the one who pulled back. Maybe.... maybe I’ve been reading the situation wrong and he really doesn’t feel anything for me.” Rory started to softly shake, she hadn’t really thought about the fact that Tristan may not like her. The possibility of that scared her. Lorelai saw her daughter’s reaction. *Oh trust me, he likes you.* “Trust me, he likes you.” Rory took a nervous sip of her coffee. “How can you tell?” “Just trust me on this honey. I know these things. He likes you. I can sense it in many ways. Besides, he’d have to be an idiot not to like you.” “He did think that Dean was an idiot for letting me go.” “See... there’s one thing.” They started to pack up. “And there was the thing with his mom that grandma had been talking about.” “Oh yeah, I had forgotten about that.” The pair walked out the door with a befuddled Luke looking at them. *Tristan better treat her right or he’s as good as garbage.* *** It was a warm and sunny Wednesday. It had rained earlier in the morning so a slight mist hung in the air giving everything a hazy glow. The trees swayed slightly when the light breeze blew. Rory was soaking it all in from underneath a large willow tree. She was leaning against it’s trunk and reading her ever present book. A dull calamity of chatter was in the background. It was lunch time and the students were taking advantage of the beautiful day. Rory was oblivious to it all. She was enthralled with the written words that were in front of her. Tristan had been looking for Rory all through out the cafeteria without any luck. He moved outside thinking that she may be trying to avoid the noise of the crowds. His intuitions were right. He almost missed her legs sticking out from behind the tree. Slowly walking to her he stopped and took in the mirage that was Rory Gilmore. The mist in the air and the sun bouncing off it formed a halo of light all around her. Her hair danced delicately in the breeze. Raising and falling against her shoulders. A strand would occasionally blow into her face and Rory would quickly remove the distraction. She bit her bottom lip as she turned the page. *She’s an angel. She has to be. No one can compare to her beauty and intelligence. I’m so lucky. I get to see her. I get to talk to her. I’m blessed by everything that is Rory Gilmore.* Rory saw Tristan looking at her. She removed her gaze from the pages for one moment to smile at him. *Damn he looks sexy today.... and everyday.* Tristan smiled back and then sat down beside her. His arm barely grazing her’s. “What is it this time Mary?” Tristan’s lips were near her ear and his tone was hushed. Rory to in a sharp breath as his breath tickled her face. “Macbeth.” Rory’s heart beat quickened when Tristan brushed a piece of hair away from her ear. His hand trailed down her neck before it returned to its place on the grass. “I would’ve thought that you had already read that.” Rory turned to the next page with a trembling hand. *Good thing I’m sitting down. Who knows what would happen if I was standing up. He has such an affect on me..... I don’t want him to stop. I think I’ve fallen for him.* “I have read it. I just saw the movie last night and decided a reread would be appropriate.” Rory was finding it extremely difficult to concentrate on Shakespeare with Tristan being as close as he was. “Which version of the movie?” Tristan had settled against the tree and was intently staring at Rory’s profile. “Mel Gibson.” “That was a good one.... Braveheart was his best movie.” Tristan removed another strand of hair from her face, but this time his fingers did not return to there starting position. “Sons of Scotland...” Rory imitated Mel Gibson’s character in her best Scottish accent. Tristan’s fingers began to weave into Rory’s hair. Every now and then one stray finger would brush of against the skin of her neck sending chills reverberating through her body. Tristan longed to just brush the hair away from her shoulders and plant soft kisses on her delicate neck. Rory was trying to keep herself from turning to face him, for fear that any eye contact may make her melt right into him. “I never knew you had a knack for accents.” Tristan continued to stare at her. “I don’t. I can just copy movie lines decently.” Rory’s breathing became quicker and shallower with every passing second. “Do you have any specialties?” Tristan noticed her poise dissolving. He too was experiencing the same feelings. The sense of longing. The need for one to be near the other. The need to be touched not only physically, but mentally and emotionally. “I can do a pretty good Eddie Izzard.” “Eddie what?” “Eddie Izzard. He’s British. Technically he’s more of a stand up comedian than an actor. He’s hilarious but the best part of all is, he does his entire act in women’s clothing... he’s a transvestite.” “Are they....” “No.... he likes the opposite sex.” “Is he funny?” “Funny wouldn’t even begin to describe it. In his one show ‘Dressed to Kill’ he basically goes through the history of Europe. My favorite part though is the Spanish Inquisition.” Rory began to copy the comedian, while Tristan’s fingers were still entwined in the softness of her hair. “The Spanish Inquisition wouldn’t have worked with the Church of England ‘Talk! Will you talk!’ ‘But it hurts.’ ‘Well loosen it up a bit.’ Cause that’s what it would be, ‘Tea and Cake or Death! Tea and Cake or Death!’ Students would be ‘Tea and Cake or Death, Tea and Cake or Death. Little Red Cookbook. Little Red Cookbook.’ Cause cake or death that’s an easy question. Anyone can answer that...” Rory continued on. Tristan began to laugh. “What are you giggling at?” His fingers began to dance circles over her shoulder. “Nothing.. just that fact that you are enthralled with this little speech that you’ve got going on.” Rory crossed her arms and pouted. “Well he is funny. You should watch the tape I have sometime. I’ll lend it to you.” “Ok...” The bell rang and Tristan stood up. He offered Rory is hand and she took it. Rory began to walk away but Tristan stopped her. “Rory!” “Yeah.” She spun around, skirt and hair swirling. “My cousin is having a party this Friday, I was wondering if you’d like to go. I know that would have to get yourself out of dinner, but I was just wondering...” “Sure. I’ll try.” Rory surprised herself by agreeing so quickly. She spun away from him and entered the building. Tristan slowly regained the composure he had lost at her answer. *She said yes.... and I didn’t even have to beg her. Maybe there’s hope.* *** Rory plopped down on the sofa letting out a sigh of relief. *Another day in hell over. Well, it wasn’t that bad. Lunch was ok. Tristan asked...* “Ooops.. better call grandma.” Rory scurried around the house tossing pillows and magazines about the room. A blanket went flying into the entrance way as Lorelai walked through the door. Knowing that flying blankets are not a normal occurrence Lorelai headed in the direction from where it came. She walked into the living room to find it in more disarray than usual. Suddenly from behind the couch a wet towel cam flying at her. Smacking her in the face she went backwards bumping into the staircase. “Rory! What on earth are you doing?” Her question was muffled by the object covering her mouth. After removing it she saw Rory peer over the sofa. “Looking for the phone.” “Oh. I hung it up.” “Why did you do that? I never would have looked there.” “The last time I used it the poor thing started beeping at me. It needed energy.” “Well as long as it’s feeling better.” Rory picked up the phone and sat on the couch, just staring at the keypad. “Rory honey. It’s not going to dial itself... unless of course you are trying out ESP.” “I have to call grandma.” “Why do you want to call Malificent?” “I need to get out of dinner on Friday.... you can’t come with me.” Lorelai just made some weird noises of objection before sitting on the stairs. “You didn’t even give me a chance to ask.” Lorelai stared at Rory and pouted. “No.” “Please, please, please.” Lorelai was on her knees, begging. Slowly tottering her way towards Rory. “No.” “Fine. Why?” “Tristan invited me to a party... and I agreed to go.” Lorelai hollered with laughter, and proceeded to fall of the couch. “Is it really that hard to believe that I would go to a party... with Tristan.” “No. I’m just thinking about.... what here.” Lorelai ran into the kitchen. A few minutes later she emerged with a cup of coffee and a bag of chips. “You can call now.” “What’s with the food?” Rory tipped her head in the direction of the snack. “This is like the blockbuster movie of the summer. ‘Emily Says No in Nine Languages.’” “Very funny.” Rory proceeded to dial, she was now afraid that she might not be able to go afterall. *Would it really kill me if I didn’t get to go. No. I wouldn’t care about missing the party.... but I’d care about missing Tristan.* “Gilmore residence, Emily speaking.” “Grandma.” Rory asked in a tone that was more of a question than a statement. “Rory, darling. How are you?” “Fine grandma.” “That’s good. Why do I have the pleasure of this call?” Emily was stirring tea. “Well... I have a request to make.” “Go ahead dear.” “I was wondering if I good miss this week’s dinner.” Rory held her breath. “I don’t see why not.” Rory smiled. “Thank you grandma.” Lorelai stopped eating and just stared. “Thank you.... she didn’t...” Rory cut her off when Emily began to speak again. “What’s the reason?” Rory slumped down, Lorelai happily resumed eating. “Well there’s this party...” Emily was stunned, she stopped all motion. “A party! Rory you cannot miss dinner for just any party. What on earth would...” “Tristan DuGray invited me.” Emily immediately perked up and began to stir her tea again. “Did you say DuGray?” “MmmHmm.” “What a sweet kid. And such a great family. Janlen DuGray does business with your grandfather. Did you now that?” Rory was very pleased with this turn around and smirked. Lorelai once again stopped her munching. “I knew that... so I can go?” “Well of course. Tristan will be a great friend. I’m glad that you two are friends.” *So am I grandma, so am I.* “Thank you grandma.” Lorelai began to pout. “Your welcome... but sometime soon you have to bring Tristan to dinner.” Rory’s shoulders slumped. Lorelai ate a chip. “Ok grandma. Thank you again.” “No problem. Have fun darling.” “I will.” They said their final good-byes and hung up. “So...” Lorelai licked her lips in anticipation. Rory’s head was downcast, she slowly picked it up and stared at her mother. Seconds passed, then all Rory did was stick out her tongue. “Oh you. Rory. You can’t leave me alone.” Rory got up and Lorelai quickly chased after her all around the house. *** Tristan walked into history class feeling somewhat apprehensive. He had not seen Rory all day and was worried that she may have changed her mind about going to the party, or that her grandmother may have not allowed her to miss the weekly dinner. His fears flew out the door as soon as he saw Rory. She was sitting in a desk just looking straight at him. A twinkle danced in her eye. He walked up to her desk, but did not take a seat. “How are we today Miss Gilmore?” Tristan faked a British accent. “Quite well Mr. DuGray... and yourself?” She copied his lead. “Perfectly peachy.” Tristan cut with the fun and games. “So?” “So.... what?” He smirked at her. “Can you go?” “Well you see....” “Please Rory, pretty please. With a cherry on top.” “Well when you beg like that... I can go.” Tristan beamed. *A party...with Rory. Someone likes me.... I just wish it were her.* “Good. I’ll pick you up at 7.” “I’ll be ready.” They sat in an awkward silence. Neither one knew if this really was a date or not. Tristan glanced at his shoes nervously and Rory just doodled on her paper. “You can sit down ya know.” “Right.” Tristan took a seat next to Rory but his eyes did not make contact with hers. “So... you feeling this awkwardness as well?” Rory turned to Tristan as she spoke. “Yeah... no idea why.” “Maybe its because we are being civil to each other and it’s culture shock because it is not our normal behavior.” “Could be... but why would it hit right now?” Rory pondered his question for a moment. “Long incubation period.” She said with a shrug. Tristan laughed. *What a great smile... it makes his eyes sparkle. God... I love his eyes. Mom was right.* “You should smile more like that more often.” Tristan stopped laughing and just stared at Rory. “Why’s that?” “Because it makes your eyes sparkle.” Tristan slowly grinned again. “Those words sound awfully familiar.” “They should.” Rory looked down at her paper and tapped her pencil nervously against the desktop. “Why’s that.” “I plagiarized them from you.” “Oh yeah... before that pillow fight.” “I want a rematch by the way... you only won because you cheated.” Rory stuck out her bottom lip. Tristan sucked in a shallow breath and gripped the desk. *Oh dear god.... make her stop. I just want to kiss her.* “Please stop that.” Tristan’s voice wavered. “Why? Does my pouting bother you?” Rory noticed his reaction, but didn’t stop, she was enjoying the vulnerable state he appeared to be in. “Not exactly.” “Then why?” “Because it’s making me want to do something that, even though I really want to do it, I really shouldn’t do.” Rory looked at him strangely but didn’t get a chance to answer because the bell rang. She passed him a note when the teacher’s back was turned. He slowly opened it, wary of what the contents might be. ‘I’ll be asking you about that comment later. I should tell you that since I’m going to the party with you tomorrow, it is required that you come to a Friday dinner with me in the near future.’ Tristan silently folded the note back up letting out a sigh of relief before smiling in acknowledgment. *What did he want to do?* *** Rory was sitting on her bed looking out the window. Her foot was bobbing up and down in an impatient manner. It was only 6:45 and she had been ready to leave for over an hour. Lorelai came in to check on her every once in a while only to leave in disgust. Who doesn’t make the man wait? *Ok, just because I’m sitting here... waiting... for.. him... it doesn’t mean that I’m ready to just fall into his arms and say ‘Take me Away!’ Ok... so maybe I am. This is just to soon. I mean Dean and I only broke up recently. I’m not the type of girl to flutter from guy to guy at a moment’s notice...* The doorbell. Rory dashed for the door, but was forced back into her room by her mother. “Oh no you don’t. You wait here.” “But...” “No buts about it missy. Sit, stay.” Rory crossed her arms in indignation. Lorelai closed the door. The doorbell rang again. Lorelai opened the door. “Tristan. Hi... oh... I see you brought coffee... for Rory?” “No actually.. for you.” He handed Lorelai the cup. “I really like you did I ever tell you that.” “Yes you have.” “Just so you know.” She paused as Tristan looked around the room for Rory. “She’ll be out in a minute, she’s making herself beautiful.” “She already is.” Tristan mumbled. “What was that?” “She already is.” *Might as well make friends with the parent.* “How sweet. I’ll go check on her.” Lorelai skipped to Rory’s room. She opened the door to find Rory pacing. “What are you two doing out there?” “Not much... come on.” Lorelai grabbed Rory by the wrist and pulled her out the door. She let go before Tristan noticed. He was staring at a photo on the wall but when the pair came in his attention was immediately drawn to Rory. She was wearing a simple black, knee length, dress that had a simple white flower pattern. Her hair was styled in dark waves that cascaded down her back. The only make-up she wore was a hint of lip gloss. Tristan was addicted to her. The more he saw her, the more he wanted her. Rory was feeling the same thing. Tristan out of his Chilton uniform was still a sight that she was becoming accustomed to. He was wearing black slacks and a white dress shirt. Nothing fancy. The top button was undone as it was his usual style. His hair was in its normal mess. All of this did not go unnoticed by Rory, but the thing that attracted the bulk of her attention was his eyes. The normal sparkle that was there had changed. Now it looked like his eyes were fixated on one thing, and one thing alone... her. They screamed for love and affection. Lorelai just looked at the scene before her. Neither of the two were going to make the first move so she did it for them. She grabbed both of them by the arm and pushed them out the door. “You two have fun now.” Then she slammed the door in their faces. “I’m guessing that she wanted us to leave.” They stared dumbfoundedly at the door, “Sorry about that... Lorelai probably had a big night ahead oh her.” Tristan motioned to the car and opened Rory’s door for her. “Doing what?” “Dinner with grandma... now that I’m not there she’ll probably torture the heck out of her.” Tristan laughed and thus began a night that would change so much. It was now near midnight and Rory, who had been enjoying the party earlier, now wanted to go home. She and Tristan has arrived around eight and were really enjoying each other’s company. She knew Tristan was going to ask her to dance, but someone grabbed her up before he had the chance. She had seen the hurt look in his eyes when the pair walked away, but Rory thought it would be rude to turn the ‘gentleman’s’ offer down. It had been an hour since she had last seen him. Now she sat on a stool near the kitchen counter scanning the room for any sign of Tristan. He was out on the balcony away from prying eyes. When Rory had left him to dance something snapped in his brain. He just now realized that if he didn’t act soon someone else, someone more worthy, would capture Rory’s heart. That would be too much for him to bear. It was now or never. He thought that Rory would not want to leave the party yet but he went inside to look for her anyways. “So... you want to go out sometime.” Rory’s former dancing partner asked. He had been persistently hounding her for a good portion of the evening. “Thank you for the offer, but no thank you.” She jiggled the ice cups in her empty cup. “Why?” He smiled charmingly. “Why what?” Frozen water is very fascinating. “Why are you turning me down?” *Because I’m falling for someone who is not you.* “I’m not in the mood to go out with anyone at the moment. Besides you wouldn’t want to be with me.” Ice is fun to look at. “Sure I would.” The guy was casually leaning against the counter attempting to touch her hair but she turned away. “Who wouldn’t?” *Tristan.* “I’m not exactly girlfriend material.” Tristan had come upon the scene a matter of minutes ago, but hadn’t made a move towards the couple. *I’m too late...* “Sure you are... you’re beautiful.” Rory snorted. “It’s true...” The guy attempted to touch her knee, but Tristan had anticipated the move and came up to them. “Hey Rory.” He leaned against the counter on the other side of her. “Tristan! Hi! Can we go?” Rory was already off the stool and at his side. “Umm... sure.” Tristan placed his arm around her, to his surprise she didn’t move away. He shrugged nonchalantly at the man who had been talking to Rory, pleased with the fact that Rory had not seem interested. Back in the car the pair had been silent for awhile. Tristan had a burning desire to know what the two were talking about. “So... who was that guy?” “What guy?” Rory was fixated on the road. “The one you were talking to before you asked to leave.” “Just some guy who was annoying the heck out of me.” “How so?” “He kept on asking me out.” “And that’s a bad thing....” “Yes.” “Why?” *He’s not the one I see in my dreams every night. He’s not the man I think of every waking second. He’s not charming and witty and smart and .... and he’s not you.* “Because I’m not his type.” “How do you know that?” “His type dates girls who stun the academic world with their knowledge, who have money, who are beautiful... I’m not even close to that.. I’m far from beautiful.” *Now or Never.* “Yes you are.” There, he had said it. “What?” “I said yes you are.... beautiful.” They pulled into her driveway. Tristan parked the car. Rory just stared at him trying to process this new piece of information. “You’re beautiful and charming and witty, and all the things you say you aren’t. I don’t know why you have such a low confidence in yourself. You, Rory Gilmore are unlike any other girl I have ever met. You are captivating. You have a passion for life like none I’ve ever seen. You are an enigma that I want to crack. There’s just something about you that draws me in... and I’m guessing that guy saw it too. You have this magnetism that just attracts me to you. I don’t know how you feel, but these emotions have been with me for a long time. I want to know you better, and I want to start now. There’s so much that you could teach me Rory, so much that you already have. You are truly beautiful Rory. Not only on the outside but on the inside as well. So don’t say you aren’t, because you’d only be lying. I’ve never met anyone as beautiful as you, and I don’t think I ever will.” Rory hadn’t moved since Tristan began to pour his heart out. She tried to speak but her mouth would not form words. Her eyes which had been on his the entire time he spoke finally shifted down to her hands. “I’ll see you Sunday?” Tristan was a little displeased with the fact that she hadn’t said anything about his tell-all, but what could he do.” “Sure... Sunday.” Rory exited the car and ran to the porch. She waved before closing the door and once out of Tristan sight she broke down and cried. Tristan backed out of her driveway and headed for home. Single tears rolling down his cheeks. *** It was now Sunday and Rory and Tristan had not spoken since the incident in the car on Friday night. Rory still couldn’t comprehend the fact that Tristan had basically said he loved her. *I refuse to believe that he likes me. I know he said all that stuff, but he has been nicer maybe, so maybe he was just trying to make me feel better. Yeah, that’s it. He has no feelings for me..... I wish he did.* Rory had all the research they had spread out across the floor. Piles sorted by pros and cons and bits and pieces about the law and how it came to be. They had all they needed, they just had to put it all together. *Just like the two of us should do.* Rory had cried herself to sleep that night, never in her life had she been so affected by someone’s words. No book had ever made her cry, no movie, no song. Yet Tristan’s words had moved her to tears. Just thinking about what he said made her want to tear up again. *He’s coming over soon... you can’t cry. You can’t let him know that you are addicted to him. He could have anyone.* Rory sat down at the kitchen table and sipped from a cup of coffee. The warm liquid soothed her. Under normal circumstances she’s be confiding in Lorelai right now, but earlier that morning Sookie had called about an emergency at the inn. The only information she got involved spaghetti, Michel, and a stuffed penguin. Rory really had no desire to find out anything else. The doorbell rang. Rory sat for a moment collecting her emotions before going to open the door. When she did she saw Tristan’s downturned head. “Hey.” His head picked up. “Hey. Coffee?” Rory smiled. “You don’t have to ask.” She took the cup from him as they went inside. “I see you’ve wasted no time in us getting started.” Tristan had noticed the papers spread out across the floor. “We’re almost done I figured we may be able to finish this up today.” Tristan’s heart sank. “Trying to get rid of me Rory?” Tristan’s comment came out in a sarcastic tone, but he had meant every word of it. Rory was startled by this. She knew his tone was sarcastic, but there was something else there. “No... just trying to get rid of the project.” “Can’t blame you there.” Tristan rubbed his hands together and picked up the con pile. “Let’s dig in.” Out of nowhere Rory pulled out poster board and glue. “What are those for?” “I decided to glue you to a poster and hang you on my wall.” Tristan reacted to this by grabbing the posters from her hands, dropping them on the floor, and spread eagled on top of them. “Glue ahead Mary, I always knew you wanted my in your room.” Rory threw the bottle at him smacking his head. “Ow.... I never knew you were into the unconscious thing... how kinky of you.” Tristan sat up and smirked. Rory retaliated by throwing a pillow at him, which he easily caught. An evil look grew in his eye. “Uh-oh.” Rory began backing towards the front door. “Uh-oh is right Rory.. I suggest you run.” She took off for the front door, shrieking as she went, but Tristan was right on her heels. The darted around the kitchen table and back into the living room. Rory grabbed a pillow of her own and took a whack at Tristan, the blow merely glancing off his raised pillow. He hit her behind her knees and she went tumbling onto the sofa. She swatted at him from her vulnerable position but he was already straddling her legs. He had dropped the pillow and begun to tickle her sides. She was laughing and kicking, attempting to free herself from this ‘torture.’ When she kicked his legs he lost his balance and landed right on top of her. The faces were less than an inch apart. Each one could hear the other’s fast paced breaths. Their eyes were locked. Every fiber in their collective bodies tingled from the others touch. Tristan’s hand slowly moved up and down Rory’s side. Rory’s arms had ended up around his neck when he fell and her fingers were now circling the soft hairs at the nape of his neck. Realizing the position they were in Tristan quickly got off of Rory and sat on the other end of the couch. “Sorry.” He mumbled. Rory sat up and looked at him still weak from the feeling of his weight on her. She couldn’t deny it any longer. Tristan must have felt something for her, she had to know. “Tristan?” “Yeah.” He looked straight ahead. “Why did you say all the stuff in the car on Friday?” Tristan’s eyes closed as he gathered strength. *I didn’t think she’d ask this so soon. I should tell her, but after what just happened, I don’t think so.* “Because it’s the truth.” His eyes were still closed he didn’t trust himself to look at her without giving everything away. “So... I think we should get started.” He slid off the couch and began collecting the papers that I been trampled on in their outburst. “Tristan.” He didn’t answer. “What’s the real reason why you said that?” “That is the real reason. It’s the truth.” Rory nodded her head in acknowledgment of his answer and then went to work, but she was far from satisfied. *Why won’t you tell me the truth? Why are you avoiding my question? What are you hiding Tristan?* *** “See you tomorrow Tristan.” Rory waved from the door as Tristan pulled out of the driveway. Rory was about to close the door when she saw Lorelai jogging down the street. “Rory! I have got the best story for you.” She ran up the stairs and was about to start her story but stopped to catch her breath. “Coffee... coffee.” Lorelai staggered into the kitchen and began making a pot. “Normal people would have asked for water.” “When have I ever been normal?” “Good question.” The two did not speak as the coffee brewed. Once the pot was finished Lorelai poured two cups and they sat down at the table. She was about to start in on her story again when she noticed Rory’s downcast eyes. “Rory honey..are you ok?” Rory sighed and thumped her head on the table. “Oh, and we were doing so well with that.” “Tristan.” “I should have known.” Lorelai dragged her chair over to the other side of the table and rubbed Rory’s back soothingly in circles. “What did he do?” “He said the sweetest thing.” Rory’s head was still on the table I didn’t tell you, but after the party I was in one of my maniacal depressive moods and was saying how unbeautiful I was and all that. And he said I was the most beautiful person he had ever seen, on the inside and on the outside.” “And you are beautiful Rory. So beautiful.” Rory sniffled as she recalled every word Tristan had said. She had been replaying the conversation through her mind all weekend. “It wasn’t just what he said... it was the way he said it.” Rory picked her head up and looked at her mother. Rory’s eyes were clouded over with tears that were on the brink of spilling down her cheeks. Lorelai’s hands went up to Rory’s face and cupped her cheeks. Her thumb rubbed away the single tear that rolled down her cheek. “His voice was so shaky... like he was nervous... Tristan has never been nervous around me. His voice was so soft that it sounded like he was talking to a sleeping baby. And then there was the look in his eyes. I’ve never had anyone look at me like that before.” Rory was in a trance as she spoke. She was looking at Lorelai, but her gaze went through her mother, she was picturing the look on Tristan’s face form that night. “His eyes looked like they were burning. The blue sparkled so brightly that I felt like he was burning a part of his soul into me, and I guess in a way he was. They look was just so passionate like the words were coming straight from his heart and out of his mouth before his brain had the time to process exactly what he was saying.” “That’s probably the way it happened.” Rory was shaken from her state of hypnoses when Lorelai spoke. “Believe me when I say that there is something there. No guy would say something like that unless he really meant it.” “I hope he meant it. Lately things have been different between us. I mean obviously we get along now, but then there’s that something else. First with the almost kisses, and then with Friday. I like him mom.” Rory looked down when she said this. It was the first time she had admitted it to herself let alone someone else. Lorelai smiled. “I don’t know what to do.” “Well... as Nike would say, ‘Just do it.’ You could always just slam him against the lockers one day and plant one on him to get things rolling...” “Mom.” “Ok, bad idea. I hate the saying time will tell, but in this case it’s the truth. Things will work out. And my psychic abilities, as limited as they are, tell me that you two will work out in the end, one way or another.” Lorelai stood up from the chair with her hand clutching Rory’s. “Come on, let’s go to Lukes.” Rory followed. *I hope your right mom. I want this to work out. I need this to work out.*