It was already Wednesday. Rory and Tristan had finished the project Sunday night and hadn’t really spoken since. Sure they wanted to but things had become so awkward that it was hard for them to talk. Tristan finally decided that he had to talk to her. He could never stay away from Rory for too long. Rory was at her locker looking once again for that damn blue pen. “You know Rory a new pen wouldn’t kill you.” Rory was startled by Tristan’s voice. She let out a little yelp before turning to him. “You scared me. Your stealth capabilities would impressed the armed forces. Ever consider joining.” “No... I can’t take orders from anyone.” “That ego of yours gets in the way.” Tristan beamed when the bantering began. *God I missed this. I missed Tristan.* “It’s not my ego that gets in the way... it’s my natural leadership skill.” “Right like that one time you lead yourself right into detention. You remember that?” *How could I not. I got detention because I was too busy staring at you to pay attention to chemistry.* “I meant to do that.” “Sure you did.” “I did.... you see Summ...” Tristan stopped before he finished his sentence. *Why on earth did you bring that up? DuGray you are stupid. You recently said everything but ‘I love you.’ and then you go and bring something so fake like that up. Dear God please tell me she didn’t hear that.* Rory had heard it, but wasn’t sure if he was joking or not. *Especially after what as happened recently. How could he bounce around like that? This is so confusing.* Tristan coughed to clear his throat and move away from the dangerous territory they had just entered. “So...are we still on for Sunday?” “Sure.. as long as you’re still on for Friday.” “Most definitely. I can’t wait to meet your grandparents. Mainly because of the way Lorelai drones on about all the pain.” “It can be painful... but things will be different this Friday.” “Why?” “You’ll be there... my mother will probably try to get you to side with her in her version of the verbal WWF.” Tristan laughed. “I better go. See you later.” “Bye.” Rory returned to her search for the elusive blue pen. “So you and Tristan are doing something this weekend?” Rory inwardly groaned when she heard Paris’ voice. “Yes.” Rory packed her bag and closed her locker. “I thought I told you that he was too good for you. Don’t you get a hint.” “Paris... calm down. It’s just a little celebration over the end of the project.” “I don’t think so.” “What on earth do you mean?” Rory began to walk down the hall, Paris trotted behind her. “I mean that it is so obvious that you are putting the moves on him.” “I’m not putting any moves on him.” “Stop playing so innocent.” Paris stopped in front of Rory, blocking her escape. “You like him I know it. Don’t deny it.” Rory was silent. “That confirms it. You like him. If you didn’t like him you’d say something.” All Rory could do was shrug and walk around Paris when she let her guard down. Unbeknownst to them Tristan was in the classroom in front of where they had their ‘conversation.’ *Does she really like me?* *** Rory was sitting in history class wringing her hands together. She was nervous. Tristan and her would be the first to present their project. She knew that they had done a decent job on it, but she was still worried that they may have missed something. Tristan had noticed Rory’s worried look and busy hands when he entered the class. He took a seat beside her. Rory didn’t notice his entrance until he grabbed one of her hands and whispered in her ear. “We’ll be fine. Calm down Rory.” Rory tensed up even more. Not because she was thinking about the project, by now that was the furthest thing from her mind. Tristan’s voice had calmed her, but his breath tickled her ear and sent shivers down her spine. The contact his hand made caused her breath the catch in her throat. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, an attempt to focus on anything by Tristan. *This is not working. God what is he wearing... he smells so good. Dear Lord.. he’s rubbing my hand. I think I may just pass out now.* Tristan’s thumb was making slow circles on the back of Rory’s hand in an attempt to dull her nerves. He knew it wasn’t working so he backed off. He leaned into her ear again. “Rory, we worked hard on this. You don’t have to worry. We’ll be fine.” *I’m not worried about the project at the moment... I’m worried that the dirty thoughts I’ve had about you lately will so be turned into reality. Is it hot in here?* “Yeah... we’ll be fine.” Rory slowly allowed her breathing to return to normal. The bell rang and Tristan reluctantly released Rory’s hand and returned to the ‘correct’ position in his seat. “Good afternoon... let’s get to the projects. Rory, Tristan, you’re up.” Tristan and Rory walked tot he front of the classroom. Each with a poster in hand. Rory began the presentation with an introduction to the law. “Roe vs. Wade was passed by the Supreme Court in 1973 by a vote of 7 to 2. The decision in this case made it legal for a woman to obtain an abortion in the first trimester of pregnancy, with the states being allowed to decide whether to legalize abortion in the second and third trimesters.” Tristan followed with comments of his own. “The debate over this decision has been fought since the day the court settled this decision. Many pro-life lobbyists have attempted to get the decision overturned. Their efforts have failed, but they are gaining support.” Rory placed her poster on the chalkboard before beginning her part of the project. “The abortion issue has been debated ever since women have found a way to have them performed. The decision made in Roe v. Wade was a correct one...” Rory continued on and Tristan was fascinated by her zest. He had heard Rory’s argument before when they were practicing but he had not seen this type of emotion out of her. Rory had changed from nervous to fiery and full of confidence all in the span of a minute. She intrigued him, he knew that this project had been a good thing for their relationship, but now a new level was added. After overhearing her and Paris’ argument he wasn’t quite sure how Rory truly felt about him and now he didn’t know how to act. “.... to conclude: Abortion should remain legal because it is a woman’s right to choose, no law can overturn the decision of a private life.” Rory turned to Tristan and he began his argument. “To put it plain and simple, abortion is murder. The fetus is an innocent life that does not have a chance to fight. Many pro-choice advocates have said...” Rory was amazed. During their practice sessions Tristan had delivered his speech in a monotone that had Rory worried. But now his voice was filled with a passion that could almost be borderline anger. The fire was back in his eyes, and Rory liked that. Over the past few days things had been really awkward between them. Rory did not know why, but everytime they talked Tristan looked at her like she was a puzzle that was difficult to solve. She missed how close they had become and hoped that his change in demeanor would go back to the way it was after the project was over. “... an unborn baby is a person too. Look around the room. Would you kill one of the people sitting next to you? No, you wouldn’t... so why is that any different from aborting an unborn child?” Tristan smiled at Rory, they were almost done. “The abortion issue will continue to be debated because no unanimous decision will ever be reached. Changes will be made and opinions will bounce back and forth. But as long as Roe v. Wade stands abortion will be legal.” Rory motion for Tristan to continue. “However, the decision may be overturned soon. President is pro-life, and he has the opportunity during his administration to place as many as three justices on the supreme court who would agree with his views. These new justices along with pro-life advocates already on the board could find Roe v. Wade unconstitutional and reverse the ruling.” “Whatever happens though, women will continue to have abortions whether by means that are legal and healthy, or illegal and in the backs of alleys. The true facts of the case are that the decision to a difficult one.” “Every persons views are different, only those in power will determine if Roe v. Wade remains. But for now, abortion is legal, and shall remain that way until those in power change.” Tristan smiled at Rory. The class clapped and they pair returned to their seats. Rory sighed as she sat down. Tristan grabbed her hand and gave it a congratulatory squeeze. The next pair moved to the front of the class, but Rory and Tristan were only half listening. They were two busy sneaking glances at the other. Tristan quickly scribbled a note to Rory and casually tossed it on her desk. She looked at him one more time before opening it. ‘Great job. Ever consider being a political lobbyist? Can’t wait for dinner tonight. -Tristan’ Rory smiled over at Tristan before writing back. ‘Great job to you too. No I’ve never considered it... I just picked up those skills from watching my mom and grandma go at it over a plate of pasta. Hope you love dinner theatre. - Rory’ Tristan read the note and smirked. The bell rang and Tristan grabbed Rory’s wrist before she had a chance to leave. “I love dinner theatre.” “Good because on of family members deserves an Oscar, you can help me pick which one. We’ll pick you up at 7.” Someone was about to bump into Rory so Tristan pulled her towards him. She was not ready for that and her hands ended up slamming into his chest. She looked up at his face, her eyes lingered on his lips for a second. Tristan was so tempted to just grab her, and show her his every feeling. The teacher staring at them was the only thing keeping him from doing so. *Why does he have to smell so good? Breath Rory, breath.* “I’ll be waiting.” Tristan finally spit out. Rory slowly backed away from him. “I’ll see you then.” She smiled before walking out the door. Tristan calmly sat back down. His head was spinning with emotions. Dinner would surely be interesting. *Being a teenager sucks.* *** Lorelai and Rory were in their car on the way to pick up Tristan. Rory was laying out rules to her mother who was only half listening. “And last but not least.... I want you on your best behavior.” “Yes drill sergeant.” “Mom.” Rory whined. “Sorry honey but you’re spazzing. All will be well.” “Thank you for the encouragement oh enlightened one.” They pulled into Tristan’s driveway and Rory was about to get out of the car to ring Tristan’s doorbell, but he was already heading out the front door. “Ah... you were waiting for us.” Lorelai cooed. Tristan smiled as he climbed into the car. “It’s not nice to keep to beautiful ladies waiting.” His voice was smooth but was not laced with his normal cocky tone. “I definitely like this one.” Lorelai ‘whispered’ to Rory, but made sure that Tristan heard. He then heard a soft groan come from Rory’s direction and he would have bet that she was turning twenty shades of red. Rory suddenly noticed her mother’s happy mood die away. She looked out the window and saw her grandparents house. “Rory do I have to go? Can we just do the drive through?” “Yes mother. Either that or I tell grandma that you are waiting in the car to be served and then you two end up bickering out here. Either way your gonna see her.” Lorelai stuck out her bottom lip. “And the pout is not going to work on me.” “Damn.” Rory and Tristan got out of the car, but Lorelai did not me. “Come on mom.” She slowly undid her seat belt and slid out of the car. “Fine. These dinners are only going to put me in an early grave.” “You are too dramatic for your own good.” Lorelai got in front of the two teens and rang the doorbell. Rory leaned into to Tristan’s ear. “Let the fun begin.” He let out a slight chuckle. Lorelai turned around and glared at him just as the door opened. “You know Lorelai it wouldn’t kill you to get here on time.” Emily had her hands on her hips and was about to launch into her normal rant when she spotted Tristan half hidden behind Lorelai. Her tone automatically became sweet. “You must be Tristan. Come in come in. Let me take your coat. Richard. Janlen DuGray’s grandson is joining us tonight.” Tristan immediately perked up at the mention of his grandfather. Richard came into the room. “You know my grandfather.” “Yes I do.” Richard shook Tristan’s hand. “Nice to meet you Tristan.” “You too sir.” Richard threw his arm around Tristan’s shoulder and guided him into the living room. “I’ve done alot of business.....” The two disappeared from Rory’s sight. As soon as they were gone Emily began to scold Lorelai about her lack of punctuality. Rory was feeling left out. *I get Tristan here.... and now I have no one to talk to... yeah... I think that’s fair.* Rory went into the room the two men had entered. She immediately saw Tristan’s ‘Someone Save Me’ look. “Grandpa I hope that you’re not boring Tristan.” “Not at all... we we’re just talking business. You weren’t bored were you son.” Tristan put up a facade. “Not at all sir. I enjoy talking about the stock market.” “See Rory, he’s fine.” Tristan sunk deeply into the couch when he realized that the talk of NASDAQ and Alan Greenspan may continue. Rory saved him though. “Grandpa... how was your vacation to Germany?” “It was wonderful....” He launched into all the details. *Hearing about the Alps is better than interest cuts.* The pair sat in silence on the couch and listened until they became numb to his voice. They passed looks to each other silently telling of their boredom. Emily came into the room and announced dinner. Rory and Tristan stayed back from the adults. “Act one.” Tristan hid his amusement. They sat down and were served their first course. Salad. Lorelai immediately dived for one of the cherry tomatoes, but her fork hit it wrong and it sailed across the table and bounced off the wall. Tristan and Rory both looked at Emily. “Lorelai darling.” Her tone was overly sweet. “If tomatoes were meant to fly they’d have wings. If you could kindly play air traffic controller and tell your food to stay grounded for the rest of the meal I’d be greatly appreciated.” “Sure thing mother. That morsel pulled rank on me though. That plane was carrying the president and well he just had a peace summit in Genoa that he could not miss.” Rory let out a small snort of amusement. Emily turned her attention to a smirking Tristan. His look disappeared when Emily looked at him. “So Tristan you kidnapped my daughter last week to go to a party. How did that go?” *I poured my heart out and she was silent.* “It was great. We met some new people discussed the trade embargo with Cuba... stuff like that.” Emily nodded her approval... missing the sarcasm in Tristan’s voice. Richard picked up on it, but remained silent. He liked this boy. “That’s nice. Rory how did the project go?” “It went wonderfully. I’m just glad it’s over.” “Why is that dear?” “It’s a project grandma... it adds stress to my life. I don’t like stress. Now I can focus on my other twenty gazillion things I have to do.” Tristan nodded his head in agreement but was hit with a cucumber. Emily glared at Lorelai. “Sorry... the Russians had to launch another Sputnik. Sorry Tristan.” “That’s ok.” The next course came around. “Act Two.” Tristan glanced at Rory picking up on her subtle smile. “So Tristan, are you and Rory planning something to celebrate your success.” Tristan finished chewing. “Actually I do have something planned.” “What exactly?” “Can’t tell.... I want to surprise Rory.” Lorelai smiled into her plate knowing that this Sunday would be another turning point in her daughter’s relationship. “I see. Lorelai... how are things at the inn?” “Well Michel had a little trouble with a stuffed penguin...” “Oh Lorelai.” Emily interrupted. “Can’t you be serious for one minute. But that reminds me. I’ve joined an Arctic Conservation group. You should sign up to.” “Why would I want to do that?” “Because the want to drill for oil in a wildlife area and doing so would mean certain death for many animals.” “My mother, the mother Theresa of wildlife.” “It wouldn’t kill you to join a foundation.” The two Gilmores bantered on for a bit more. Tristan and Rory just sat silently listening to the verbal tennis match. Tristan was enjoying this intimate glimpse into Rory’s life. So much made sense to him now. “I’m sensing a trend in personalities here Rory.” Tristan whispered to Rory. “You’re just now seeing it?” Richard has seen Rory and Tristan’s exchange. “What are you too in cahoots about?” Rory’s head immediately perked up. “Nothing grandpa.” Tristan had an impish grin on his face when he turned to Rory. She blushed when his eyes met hers. This was not missed by the adults at the table. “Tristan are you seeing anyone?” All eyes turned to Emily who was playing stupid. “Excuse me?” Tristan was obviously flustered. “I asked if you were seeing anyone.” “No ma’am I’m not.” Emily filed this new information away for future use. “That’s surprising. Someone as attractive and as intelligent as you should have been scooped up a long time ago.” Tristan blushed before speaking. “You can say they same thing about Rory.” Rory’s head whipped around to face him, a look of bewilderment upon her face. “She definitely should have been off the marker a while ago.” It was now Emily’s turn to be confused. “I though you were still seeing...” “No.” Rory interrupted. “I broke up with Dean a few weeks ago.” “Oh.” Pause. “Well then...” Lorelai could see the wheels in her mother’s mind churning out a plan. “Ok kids. In the car, I forgot that I need to be home soon.” “Lorelai you haven’t even had dessert.” “No time mom. Come on kids lets go.” Rory and Tristan grabbed there coats and went to wait in the car. Lorelai stayed behind. “Mom... something is going to happen between the two of them on Sunday. I can feel it, but I don’t want you butting in and screwing things up.” “Lorelai I...” “Bye mom.” Lorelai shut the door. *Something is going to happen... I can feel it.* *** Tristan’s hands were shaking slightly as he stood poised to ring Rory’s doorbell. He reached his hand out and pulled it back again. *Get a hold of yourself Tristan. You can do this. It’s just like any other time you’ve come over here. This is Rory we’re talking about, you could be covered in mud form head to toe and she wouldn’t care. She’d laugh but you wouldn’t care... and you would get to see her smile....* Tristan was so deep into his thoughts that he didn’t see that the door had opened a while ago. “So Tristan are you just gonna stand there, or are you going to come in and say hi to me before you steal my only daughter away from me tonight?” Tristan jumped at the sound of Lorelai’s voice. “Sorry just thinking.” “I figured as much. Come on in. I saw your car drive up and I was thinking to myself ‘Let’s greet Tristan at the door.’” Lorelai saw how apprehensive Tristan was. His eyes darted around the living room, not staying on one object for more than a few seconds time. His hands popped in and out of his pockets, every once in a while rubbing the nape of his neck. “Calm down Tristan. This is Rory were talking about.” *Exactly why I’m nervous. This is Rory. A goddess on earth.* “Sorry.. it’s just that I want her to have fun tonight and I don’t want to screw anything up.” Lorelai smiled reassuringly at him as she grabbed his hand and looked him in the eye. “You couldn’t disappoint her if you wore a dog suit to this little shindig you’ve got planned. Trust me when I say she’s been looking forward to this since the day you mentioned it.” Tristan’s eyes sparkled in surprise and he let out a sigh of relief. “She’ll be down in a minute, she’s upstairs stealing something of mine I’m sure. I’ve never seen her this worried before...” Lorelai went upstairs after dropping that hint to Tristan. Rory came down a few seconds barreling down the stairs towards the front door. She didn’t even notice Tristan in the living room as she ran right past him. A few seconds later she came back into the room. “Mom you lied he’s not here..... oh hi Tristan. I must have missed you there.” Tristan smiled as he got up off the couch. “It happens. Your chariot awaits.” Tristan couldn’t take his eyes off of her. She wore dark blue jeans and a red T-shirt with diamond studs around the collar. Her hair was left down and hand was begging his brain to let its fingers run the softness. “Why are you looking at me like that?” “Because you look marvelous.” A blush slowly creeped up Rory’s cheeks. “Thank you.” Pause. “I’m undressed am I?” “No you’re perfect.” *In more ways than one.* She smiled at him, a twinkle in her eyes. “Then let’s go.” She was already out the front door. “I don’t have to be told twice.” Tristan ran after her as she bounded down the front steps. “Wait.” Rory stopped short of the car door that her hand was about to open. Tristan calmly walked around to her side of the car and opened the door. “Thank you.” Tristan gently took her hand as she climbed in, then shut the door behind her. He got in himself and started the engine. As he drove a soft melody of violins played through the stereo. “I never knew that you liked classical music.” “One of my many hidden sides. If it got out that I had a secret passion for Vivaldi or Chopin I’d get my ass kicked at school.” “I’m fond of Tchaikovsky myself.” Tristan glanced at her in surprise. Then he quickly fumbled with the stereo and the sounds of Romeo and Juliet filled the air. “I was listening to this as I was coming to pick you up.” His eyes returned to the road and Rory was able to study his profile. His blonde hair was in its normal mess and Rory just wanted to reach out and touch it to see if it was as soft as she thought it was. His eyes were trained on the road, but she could still see the passion they held. In the past few weeks she had seen more emotions come out of his eyes than she had ever seen before. His mouth hummed the symphony softly and wished that she could just feel his lips brush against hers. Tristan’s eyes darted over her way and she turned her head to the road. *I saw you looking at me Rory Gilmore. What I want to know is why?* “So where are we going?” “You’ll see soon.” “Won’t you give me a hint at least.” “Nope.” “Please.” “Sorry... you’ll just have to wait.” By now they had reached Hartford and Rory was clueless as to what they were doing. She looked around the car for any hint of what they may be doing. “And there is nothing in the car that will help you.” “Damn.” Rory’s face crinkled up in disappointment. Tristan feigned shock. “Rory! Naughty potty mouth!” “Please.” Rory pleaded with him but he only smirked. “No.” “Pretty please with sugar on top.” “Nope.” “Please.” “Sorry sista... ain’t telling.” “I’ll have my mom hit you with a cucumber again.” Tristan gripped at his heart as if in pain. “Oh heavens what will I do. Death by Vegetable. That’s how the obituary will read.” “Smartass.” “Thank you.” There was a brief silence. “Please.” “I said no.” “Why won’t you tell me?” “Because it’s fun to see you whine.... and we’ve been sitting in the parking lot for a bit and you hadn’t even noticed that I parked the car.” Rory looked out the windshield. The car was indeed not moving. “Oh!” “Yeah.” Tristan climbed out of the car and Rory just sat there in shock until Tristan opened her door. “I feel stupid.” She took the hand that he offered. “I bet that doesn’t happen often.” “You’d be surprised... so this it. We’re celebrating in a parking lot.” “No.” He guided her around to the front of a building. “We’ll be starting this little shindig, if I may borrow your mother’s word, at this restaurant.” Rory looked up at the sign that sat atop the roof of the building. ‘Johnny Rockets.’ Tristan guided her inside. The motif of the restaurant was basically a ‘50s style diner. A waiter led them to a booth and the sat down on opposite sides. On the table was a mini juke box. The waiter plopped down about twenty nickels in between the two of them. “These are for the jukebox. Here are your menus and someone will around to you soon to take your drink orders.” Rory and Tristan thanked him. Tristan picked up his menu, but Rory immediately searched the jukebox for good songs. “Ahhh... they have the ‘Mr. Sandman.’” She giggled to herself as she popped in a nickel and pressed the right numbers. Her smile quickly faded when no sound came out of the tiny contraption. “Tristan I think our jukebox is broken... it won’t play.” Tristan’s eyes peered at her from over the menu. “It’s not broken.” “Well it’s not playing.” “That’s because all the mini jukeboxes play through the main speaker system in the restaurant.” Just then the chords of ‘Mr. Sandman’ echoed through the restaurant. “There. Problem solved. Have you ever been here before?” “No.” “That explains it.” “Explains what?” “Why you are look so happy.” *No... I’m happy because I get to spend time with you.... but a funky restaurant does help.* Rory was about to verbally respond to his statement when a waiter walked up their table. “Can I take your drink orders?” Tristan looked up at him. “I’ll have a chocolate milk shake.” “And for you miss.” “Vanilla milkshake.” “I’ll be back to take your meal orders in a minute.” As soon as the waiter was away Tristan redirected his attention to Rory. He just stared at her. “What?” Rory found his gaze slightly unnerving. “Vanilla.” “Yes.” “Out of all the flavors in the world. Vanilla.” “Well you were very original with chocolate.” “At least mine has flavor.” “Vanilla is a flavor.” “A boring one.” “Don’t diss vanilla. It was the original... it started the trend.” “But chocolate is a classic.” “Vanilla is still better.” Tristan’s hand brushed hers as he reached for a nickel. The warmth surprised her and made her tingle all over. He flipped through the songs as Rory appeared to look at her menu. She really was staring at the masterpiece that was Tristan’s hands. They looked so strong and powerful yet everytime he had touched her they had been gentle and caring. The waiter returned with their drinks. “What’ll you have?” Tristan motioned for Rory to go first. “I’ll have a burger...very well done.... to the point of charred. With onion rings.” “And you sir.” “Cheeseburger... medium rare... with mushrooms. And french fries.” The waiter jotted down the information, took their menus and headed for the kitchen “Charred?” “I read this book called ‘Toxin’ by Robin Cook. Let’s just say that it’s an updated version of Upton Sinclair’s ‘The Jungle.’ The talk, in deal what happen when some is poisoned with E. coli... and the sight ain’t purty. It almost made me want to be a vegetarian.” “That’s a good reason.” “It was a good book.” “I’ll have to try it some time.” Tristan leaned back in the booth and just took in everything that was Rory Gilmore. Her face. Her mannerisms. Her voice. Her. Rory was looking out the window, just watching the world as it went by. Enjoying the silence, because it was with Tristan. Their food arrived and they ate. Speaking between bites of their own food, while stealing some of the other’s. When the waiter came around with the dessert menu Tristan said no before Rory had a chance to protest. She pouted. “Don’t pout Rory. There will be plenty of sweets where were going next.” “And where is that?” “Sorry, not going to tell.” The waiter returned with their check and Rory talked Tristan into letting her pay for her meal. The got back into the car and Tristan began to drive towards the outskirts of Hartford. They passed a sign advertising the Hartford fair. Rory put two and two together. “We’re going to fair aren’t we.” She bounced in her seat. “Maybe.” “Ha! That wasn’t a no.” The drove through the gates of the fairgrounds. “I was so right. Go Rory, Go Rory.” She did a little happy dance in her seat. Tristan parked the car and ran to her side. She was still dancing as he opened her door. “You can stop now.” She got out and danced around him. “Rather not.” He grabbed her hand, half expecting her to pull it away, but she didn’t. He led her to the entrance and they stopped when they saw all the fair had to offer. Small game booths dotted the lawn, displaying a wide variety of surprising. They could hear the delighted squeals of children on the various rides. Towering above the scene was a massive Ferris wheel. Rory sniffed the air and darted for a booth, dragging Tristan behind her. “What are you part bloodhound?” Tristan asked her when they had stopped. “I smelled fried dough... I love fried dough.” “Low and behold we are at a Fried Dough stand.” “How very observant of you.” Rory bought two servings and handed one to Tristan. It looked at it oddly. “What? Never had this before?” “No actually.” He poked the piece of food on the napkin he held. “It’s the greatest thing on the planet.... next to coffee of course. Go on take a bite.” Tristan eyed the concoction one more time before taking a large bite out of it. He swallowed it and looked at Rory. “This is delicious.” Rory watched in fascination as Tristan devoured the snack. “What?” Bits of food flew out of his mouth. “Oh nothing.” Rory slowly nibbled on her piece. They walked around the fairgrounds pointing out things that they wanted to do. When Rory finished her dessert the got in line for the only roller coaster that was set up. “Are you a screamer?” Tristan turned to Rory as he questioned her. “Depends. If it’s in the dark yes, if not no.” “Well I for one am not a screamer.... and I definitely put my hands in the air.” “Good to know.” They climbed into the car. Rory held on for dear life as the car climbed the steep hill. Tristan noticed that her knuckles were turning white. “Rory? Something wrong.” “I may have neglected to mention that I dislike heights.” “Rory! You should have said something. We could have done something else.” “No. I love roller coasters... once the 100 foot freefall is over.” “Well... it will be in 2 seconds.” At that point the train of cars went over the edge, Tristan’s arms were immediately in the air. Rory, true to her word, did loosen up once the drop was over. After they got off the ride Rory was having trouble walking straight. Tristan wrapped his arm around her waist. “Need a little help...” “Yeah... except at the moment I am seeing two of you... two Tristans... I don’t think the world could handle that.” He laughed. “I like being the one and only. I think we should do something less intense.” “I concur.” The walked over to a gentle water ride, neither one noticed the sign. Tristan helped Rory into the boat and then took a seat next to her. Tristan’s arm was thrown over Rory’s shoulder like it had a mind of its own. She didn’t shake it off, in fact she leaned her head on Tristan’s shoulder. He was surprised at the move, but settled in as the boat began to move. Tristan’s head shot back up when Rory elicited a groan. “What?” Her hand pointed to a sign above the tunnel they were about to enter. ‘The Tunnel of Love’ “What’s the problem Rory... afraid of the dark.” *No... just afraid I might do something... like, oh I don’t know, kiss you.* “No.” They entered the tunnel and were immediately blasted with Olivia Newton John’s ‘I Honestly Love You.’ Another groan. Tristan giggled. Rory hid her head in his shoulder and let out another groan. Tristan decided to use her agitation to his advantage. He leaned into her ear and began singing along. Tristan’s hand groped around in the darkness and found hers. She tightened her grip on him with every passing second. His breath tickled her ear and sent shockwaves coursing through her body. Little cupids and hearts danced around them, but they were in their own world. Rory’s lips were mere millimeters from Tristan’s neck. She desperately wanted to taste him, but was scared too. Tristan was finding it difficult to hang on to reality. The aroma of Rory’s hair was intoxicating him beyond belief. His finger’s roamed through the softness as he sang to her. A giggle interrupted his thoughts. It turned into a full fledged laugh in a matter of seconds. “What?” “The fact that you know all the words to this song scares me.” “Fine... be that way. Don’t agree with my taste in music.” The truth of the situation was Tristan’s soft singing had overwhelmed Rory. The words spilling from his mouth were too close to her true feelings. The ride ended and they headed towards the gaming booths. “Look Mr. Macho. Care to when your damsel,” Rory twirled. “a grossly oversized stuffed animal?” Tristan eyed Rory. “Hand me that mallet.” Tristan rolled up his sleeves revealing the tan, muscular arms underneath. The merchant handed him the mallet. Tristan rubbed his hands together raised the mallet high above his head and sent it crashing down....onto the grass. “You missed the target completely.” Rory was about to fall over she was laughing so hard. “That was a practice swing.” “Sure it was Hulk.” Tristan picked up the mallet again and swung even harder. He hit the target, but the bell did not ring to signal his victory... the weight on the scale had stopped inches short. Tristan’s faced was covered with the signs of defeat. He grabbed Rory’s hand and led her to another booth. “This is more my style.” He picked up the water gun on the counter. In mere seconds he had hit all the targets and received a giant flamingo as his reward which he handed to Rory. “There is something utterly scary about the fact that you have such good aim... anything I should know about?” “Clay pigeon shooting.” “Ahhh... that explains it. My turn to pick.” Rory, Tristan, and the flamingo headed to the carousel, the spinning tea cups, and a few dozen other rides before Tristan noticed Rory yawn. “Ok sleepy, one last ride. You pick.” “Definitely the Ferris Wheel.” The flamingo was left behind when the climbed into the car. Rory leaned her head on Tristan’s shoulder. “Tristan?” “Yes.” He gently placed his arm around her when he noticed her shiver. She relaxed into his embrace. “Thank you.” “For what?” “For tonight, for the wonderful work on the project, for being my friend... for being you.” Tristan gently placed a kiss on her forehead. The contact warmed Rory to the core and she closed her eyes, branding that feeling into her memory. They had reached the top of the Ferris wheel when it stopped. It was silent until a large explosion jolted the pair from their thoughts. In front of them fireworks were going off. The light in the sky was reflected in their eyes. Tristan’s hand twirled in Rory’s hair as if it belonged there. Rory’s thumb carelessly traced circles on the back of Tristan’s hand. Tristan pulled his hand away from Rory’s and lifted her chin so that they made eye contact. Both saw the love in the other’s eye. The moment was perfect. Tristan leaned in waiting for the contact to be made. Rory closed her eyes awaiting the feel of his lips on hers. Every day since the assigning of the project had built up to this moment. Rory felt Tristan’s warm breath upon her lips and she sucked in a quick breath at the same moment the ride started again. So close and yet so far. Tristan backed away and Rory’s eyes dropped in disappointment. Tristan held a hand up to his mouth to cover his chuckles. “What’s so funny?” The climbed out of the seat. “Oh nothing. Grab your flamingo. I’ll take you home.” The ride back to Stars Hollow was silent. Save a squeak the stuffed animal let out everytime the car hit a bump. When they arrived at Rory’s house Tristan walked her to the front door. “Thanks again Tristan I had a blast.” “It was my pleasure. We should do it again.” “That we should.... well goodnight.” Rory opened the door and was about to go inside when Tristan’s hand on her wrist stopped her. She turned back to him. “It won’t be a goodnight until we finish what we started on that Ferris wheel.” Tristan was leaning in again and Rory was going to meet him halfway. She was sure nothing would ruin the moment, but fate had decided to hate her. “Hey Rory! I see you’re back home... and that I’ve interrupted something.” Tristan laughed again. “Night Rory. See you tomorrow.” He got into his car and drove away. Rory stared at her mother like she was demon possessed. “MOTHER!” “Sorry... don’t hurt me.” Lorelai meekly pulled back into the house, an angry Rory stalked after her, slamming the front door behind her. *** “Where is that damn pen?” Rory was furiously through her locker. She was on overdrive. After everything had happened last night she was a bundle of energy. After her mom interrupted what was sure to be heaven, Rory sat her one the couch and gave her a lecture about how not to ruin a moment like that. Lorelai was still apologizing that morning. That night she had formulated a plan. That plan would be put into action as soon as she could find that damn pen, and then find Tristan. Many thoughts were tumbling through her head. *Pros of dating Tristan: He makes me feel loved, I feel complete, He gives me coffee, He’s not the pompous ass that he was before, He sends shockwaves through my body every time her touches me, looks at me, or speaks to me. Cons: Not a damn one that I can think of.* Rory’s head was deep into her locker when she felt a tap on her shoulder. Only one person’s touch could make her feel that hot all over. Tristan. She turned around and his deep blue eyes met hers. Tristan’s arm was behind his back, like he was hiding something. His head was tilted to one side as he examined the hungry look in Rory’s eyes. “So about last night...” “What about it Tristan?” Rory slowly inched toward him. Tristan backed away slightly. “It was the best time I’ve ever had.” “I share those sentiments.” Rory continued to walk towards him and he continued to back away. Her intense stare made his knees weak, he wasn’t sure how much longer he could remain standing. His back finally met the lockers and he sucked in a breath when he saw Rory still slowly making her way towards him. “That’s a good thing. I umm... bought you some blue pens.” Tristan’s hand moved out behind his back and he showed the bag of pens to Rory. “That’s nice.” Her eyes were still making contact with his and she was slowly inching closer to him. “Rory?” “Yes.” “Why are you looking at me like I’m a giant mug of coffee?” “Am I?” “Yes.” Tristan gulped for air. She looked radiant, and her new demeanor was turning whatever resolve he had to mush. “Well you know how much I love coffee.” “That I do.... you want these pens or not.” By now Rory was hovering within inches of Tristan. He felt her warmth even from this distance. “Forget about the pens.” She grabbed the bag from his hand and tossed it over her shoulder. “Umm...o....k.” Her face was right in front of him Tristan was finding it difficult to form words. Never in his life had someone looked at him like this. He was nervous around the girl for the first time. He wanted to reach out and wrap his around her, but her stare had him pinned to the lockers. Rory saw his emotional state and smiled. She liked the effect that she was having on him. Tristan nervously smiled back his mouth attempting to form some word to communicate to her with, but it was cooperating. Her hand reached out and straightened his tie. Tristan gulped in air at her contact and tried to jump back but he had nowhere to go. Rory’s fingers slowly wrapped around his tie and she pulled herself up to his face. “I was thinking of something better than pens?” “R...r...really.... what?” “About something that should have happened last night...” Rory’s warm breath was dancing across Tristan’s trembling lips. “....before my mother interrupted.” She leaned in and brushed her lips against his in a brief but earth shaking kiss. Trembles of pleasure shot through both their bodies as they stared at each other. One second passed before Tristan crushed his lips to hers. His arms wrapped around Rory’s body as he pulled closer than she had ever been before. She could feel every inch of his hard body against her and she would have melted into the floor had he not been there to hold her up. Her arms slowly creeped around his neck as their lips continued to move against each other. Her fingers ran through the soft hair on the nape of his neck. Tingles rushed through him. One of Tristan’s hands moved up to cradle Rory’s head. His fingers massaged her hair in slow circles as he tilted her face up to allow for more access than they thought possible. This move made Rory groan in pleasure. Her tongue ran along his bottom lip begging for access to his mouth. Tristan obliged happily. The pair was oblivious to the audience that was watching them. Students moved about, shrieked, talked, and pointed at the duo. But they were in their own world. This moment had been coming for a long time. Tristan help Rory so close that she felt like she was becoming a part of him. She fit perfectly into his arms. They were made for each other. She knew right then and there that she would never tire of seeing him or touching him. Tristan had been dreaming of this moment since he first laid eyes on Rory. But this kiss was beyond anything he had ever imagined. She felt like an angel in his arms. Her lips were soft and yet held such passion for him. He felt so warm, so wanted.... so loved. He had never felt like this before, and he knew that as long as they were together he could handle anything. They finally lips finally separated, but Rory did not step away from Tristan’s embrace. She wanted to stay there for the rest of her life. Their foreheads made contact and they just stared into each other’s eyes. Each of them was sucking in shallow breaths trying to regain so sense of strength, but all composure had been lost. Neither one spoke, they just stared. A small smile slowly slip across Tristan’s lips and Rory followed suit. “You had French vanilla this morning didn’t you?” Tristan finally broke the silence. Rory let put a small giggle. “I don’t remember. Want to try again to be sure?” Rory bit her bottom lip seductively. “Well... we have to be sure.” Their lips met again in passion that was sure to be repeated many more times.