Rory flew herself into the seat of the swing and immediately propelled herself into the air. The wind she generated pushed her hair past her face and sent it flying behind her, only to be rushed once again into her eyes as she changed direction. Being on a swing gave Rory a sense of freedom that she had only felt when she was a child; the feeling of flight, the sense of power. Rory closed her eyes to savor the sensation of flying through the air. Suddenly she felt two warm hands push on her back. Rory’s breath caught in her chest as the familiar shocks coursed through her. The swing carried her forward and away from the warmth. Rory felt the cold air against her and it felt oddly comforting because she knew that as soon as she moved backwards she would feel the warmth again. Her momentum carried back again and into the hands that were awaiting her. They pushed on her back again, but this time they seemed to cling to her a bit longer. Tristan and Rory continued this cycle for almost half an hour. On one swing back Rory didn’t feel the warm hands. She looked to the side and saw Tristan looking up at her from another swing. She dropped her feet to the ground and slowly dragged herself to a stop. When the dust about her feet had settled she focused her eyes on Tristan. He had dropped his head and was staring at the designs his shoe was making in the dirt. His sculpted hands gripped the chains of the swing tightly, and he appeared to be very stressed. “Tristan? Are you Ok?” Rory’s voice was soft. “Can I ask you a question?” Tristan still stared at the ground as he spoke. His voice was almost a whisper and Rory strained to hear it. “Sure.” “What do you think of me?” He paused. “Truthfully... not what you think I want to hear.” “I can’t answer that.” Rory tipped her head to the side as Tristan’s head came up to look straight ahead “I understand.” “I don’t think you do.” Rory stated. “I do. You can’t answer that question, I’m not going to force you.” Tristan was about to stand up when Rory stopped him. “Stay... please.” Tristan readjusted himself in his seat. “Why?” “I can’t answer that question because I don’t know the answer.” “It may be the lack of sleep talking, but I don’t quite follow you.” Tristan leaned back against the chain as he looked at Rory’s soft features. “I can’t answer the question because I still haven’t figured out what I think of you.” Rory took a deep breath as she prepared to dive into her answer. “Some days you treat me like I’m a queen and that you would do anything to see me happy. Other days you treat me like a bug that you want to squash. Then there are the days that you are indifferent to me. But the days that drive me crazy are when you are a complete mystery. Just when I think I understand you, you do something that completely throws me off. I have to rethink my opinions of you. I don’t think you’re the spoiled rich kid that you make yourself out to be. I think that inside your a scared little boy that just wants to be loved but you have no idea how to find it and so you change your facade to fit your mood. I also think that you hate Chilton and the only reason that your put up with it is to please your parents. I’ve never met them, but they seem to be the type of people that associate love with money. So Tristan... in essence you’re an enigma to me. I can’t answer the question because I’m still cracking your code.” Tristan’s deep blue eyes penetrated into her as she spoke. She felt like at any moment he could set her on fire. There was a long pause after her speech before Tristan spoke, and when he did speak it was not what she expected. “You just did crack my code.” “I did?” Rory’s eyes narrowed as she tried to understand him once again. Tristan stood up and reached his hand towards Rory. She accepted it and stood up. “Come on I’ll walk you back, it’s getting late.” “This is one of those mystery days.” Rory laughed and Tristan just chuckled along with her. *** Rory yawned widely as the southern morning sun filtered into the dorm room. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes and glanced over at the clock. 8:00 am. She didn't have to be awake for another half hour but she couldn't sleep. She looked over towards Paris' bed and found that her roommate was not there. Rory vaguely remembered Paris mentioning something about going for a swim in the morning. Rory assumed she was at the pool. Rory pulled the covers up around her chin. If she wasn't getting up she might as well stay warm. Rory's eyes followed the dust that danced in the sunlight. Rory never really was a morning person, but she couldn't help but feel calm and loved in the morning. Everyday was a new slate, and every morning was a wonderful beginning. Rory wondered what chapter of her life would unfold today. Last night she had fallen into a deep sleep. She dreamed, but now she couldn't remember what it was about. Rory recalled feeling safe and secure like she never had before. Rory snuggled deeper into the covers, this time only her eyes stuck out. Her hair was splayed across the pillow and she knew it would be a pain to brush when she finally climbed out of bed. Rory’s eyes drifted lazily to the door when she heard the lock turn. “You awake yet sleeping beauty?” Rory craned her neck to see Steve poking his head through the door much to the annoyance of Paris. When he was finally able to push his way past Paris he jetted towards Rory and made a flying leap for the bed landing with a thud near Rory’s feet. “Don’t go harassing my roommate Steve, that’s my job.” Paris dropped her gym back on her bed before heading over to the mirror to brush her hair. Steve turned his attention back to Rory. “So darling are you ready to start this brand new day?” All Steve got in return was a muffled groan from Rory who had buried her head into her pillow and feigned sleep. “I know your awake... get up.” Steve grabbed Rory’s arms and pulled her to a sitting position. Her hair flopped in front of her face and Rory blew out to move it away from her mouth. “I hate you and everything you stand for.” Rory dead panned. “That’s the spirit now get dressed... Tristan has been pacing like crazy this morning, and I think you’re the only thing that can calm him down.” And with that Steve was out the door.... Rory was still analyzing his comments. “Tristan.... pacing... me... what the?” “Yes Rory. That’s what he said. Now get dressed so you can stress about it over coffee.” “Coffee.” “It’s down in the dining hall.” Before Paris could finish her statement Rory had flung herself out of bed and into the shower. Once Paris had heard the water start she stopped brushing her hair and went out into the hallway. She found Steve leaning against the wall intently awaiting her arrival. “So.... did my little plan work or not?” “You’re right... it did confuse... but I had to resort to the coffee trick to get her out of bed.” “But it worked.... now... to work on Tristan.” Steve rubbed his hands together evilly as he stalked off towards his and Tristan’s room which was right across the hall. On his way to Tristan’s bed Steve picked up a wet washcloth grinning madly to himself. He stood over Tristan’s bed and took aim before bring the soaked cloth down on a slumbering Tristan. Once the wetness hit him, Tristan jerked awake and swung his arm wildly in the air, knocking over Steve who was laughing so hard he was gasping for breath. “What in the hell? Steve?” “You should see yourself man... dear lord.” Steve grabbed his stomach and rolled over onto the floor in a fit of giggles. “I’m going to go shower now, and let you hang about with your evilness.” Tristan tossed one last look at his friend and got into the shower. When he emerged five minutes later he was surprised to see Paris and Steve conversing on his bed. He self-consciously grabbed the towel around his waist. The only shred of cloth that covered his dignity. Paris glanced his way and said good morning before turning back to Steve. Tristan was stunned to say the least, any other time Paris would have blushed furiously and immediately left the room. Tristan like the change. It meant she was finally becoming the real woman that was hidden inside of her. He grabbed his clothes and ducked back into the bathroom to change. When he reemerged Paris and Steve were gone. He turned off the lights and locked the door behind him. Turning around he caught Rory doing the same thing. “Beautiful morning isn’t Tristan?” She smiled at him as she looked out the hallway window at a wonderfully blue sky. “It certainly is Rory, it certainly is.” Tristan said, however his eyes were on Rory and not looking out the window. *** After having replenished herself with coffee Rory felt even better than she had already. The gang had decided that since they didn’t have a match until the afternoon that they would visit the aquarium. Rory watched the cars go by as the waited for the trolley to pick them up. Tristan stood closely behind her, saying nothing, just enjoying being in her presence. “Tristan I know your there, you’re not exactly the quietest guy around.” Rory turned to face him a smirk on her face. “Damn.... foiled again. I’ll get you my pretty and your little dog too.” Rory raised one eyebrow at Tristan’s odd statement. “Ok then... someone got a lot of sleep.” “Actually I didn’t. But that’s beside the point.” “Why didn’t you get any sleep?” Rory tipped her head inquisitively. “No reason.” Tristan was nervous at her question, but didn’t show it. He could tell Rory was about to ask again, but luckily the trolley pulled to a stop in front of them. The climbed on and Rory went to the back with Tristan hot on her heels. The ended up sharing the seat in the far back. Tristan made sure to give Rory her space, it was not yet time for him to make his move. They sat in silence as the trolley traveled to its downtown destination. The quaint houses and large mansions passed by. Mardi Gras beads were still hanging in the trees. Tristan itched to just hold Rory’s hand. Then a miracle. “This is insane. 95 degrees out and my hands feel like blocks of ice.” Rory began to furiously rub her fingers together. Tristan silently thanked whatever being just created this moment. “Here, allow me.” He grabbed her small hands in his, and began to massage the warmth of his into them. His eyes stared into hers. The fire she saw in them made her look down at her hands. They were still encompassed in his, and were finally getting warm. “Is that better?” “Yes.” Rory’s voice was hushed. She was still unaccustomed to the sparks that Tristan gave her. Rory lifted her gaze hesitantly towards Tristan’s eyes. Their visions locked and Rory felt like he had her in a trance. The deep blue depths of his eyes swirled about in her mind. His hands on hers kept her forever warm. “Excuse me you two, but we’re here.” Mr. Good announced his presence to the pair, an evil smile upon his lips. Tristan and Rory both smiled up at him before slowly letting each other’s hands go. The group of high school students and their gnome of a leader walked down the crowded streets of downtown New Orleans. Paris had managed to snag Rory away from Tristan in the short time it took them to depart the trolley. Rory was now stuck in an intellectual conversation wen she would rather be with Tristan in silence. Rory found that sentiment rather odd, when had she ever wanted to be with Tristan? Tristan meanwhile just watched the girls talk. He paid particular attention to the way Rory’s facial expressions changed during the course of the conversation. Every time he looked at her he couldn’t help but be mesmerized with her beauty. The way the sun glinted off her hair in a brilliant halo of light. Her soft lips speaking soft, but strong words. She was a goddess in his eyes. “And we’re here.” Mr. Good announced as he went off to buy the tickets. The grouped wait for a mere few seconds before her came back and handed out the tickets. “We have a match at 4pm, so we have to meet back here in front of the gift shop at 2pm. If you’re late, your dead, or I make you clean off my desk.” The kids groaned, for everyone knew that any kid who was forced to clean his mess of a desk got buried under the debris and was never heard from again. “Well then in that case we had better get going.” Paris said as she grabbed Steve’s wrist and pulled him down a hall. Mr. Good left Rory and Tristan alone when he decided to follow Steve and Paris. “So Rory, where to first?” “Only my favorite place in every aquarium....” “And that would be?” “It’s a secret.... come on.” Rory took of down the hall and Tristan followed. Minutes later he found himself standing in front of a grinning Rory. “Tada!” She exclaimed while sweeping her hand to the side Vana White style. Tristan looked at her oddly, one eyebrow raised as he slowly made his way to the enclosure in front of him. He let out a small laugh as he saw what the tank contained. “It figures that you would like penguins.” He turned towards her, a smile upon his lips. “And what, pray tell, is wrong with penguins?” “Nothing. I just never penned you for a penguin fan.” “They happen to be one of the cutest animals I have ever seen.” “I concur with that agreement.” “You do?” Rory was surprised at this agreement. “Of course. They get to have waddle around in tuxedos all day looking quite adorable.” “Wow.” There was a shock in Rory’s voice. “What?” Tristan looked around as is he was covered in something. “That was just.... so not you.” “What do you mean by that?” He leaned towards her awaiting her answer. “You used the word adorable. You never call anything adorable.” “Goes to show you don’t know everything about me.” “I guess I don’t.” Rory went back to watching the penguins and Tristan joined her, glancing back at her every now and then. Later on he was finally able to pry her away from the penguins. They took their time exploring the rest of the aquarium. Stopping for a moment at every tank to admire the beauties of the water. Rory had to admit to herself that she was having fun. Tristan seemed to know the oddest facts about the animals, and she was able to counter with information of her own. It was about fifteen minutes before the had to leave when the found themselves in front of the sea otter enclosure. “These have always been one of my favorite animals.” Tristan said as he leaned on the railing that went around the tank. Rory squeezed in through the people to be beside him. “Really?” She asked. “Ever since I was a little boy I begged my parents for a sea otter to keep me company. They asked me where I was going to keep it. I always told them in my bathtub. I even went as far to put in kelp and clam shells thinking that one day my dad would come home with an otter for me. That day never came.” Tristan had a melancholy in his voice as he spoke. Rory listened intently as he spoke. “I remember that one birthday all I asked for was a sea otter. I waited by my bathtub all day, just waiting for my dad to come home with my new pet. I got a pet.” “They really gave you an otter?” “Nope.” “What then?” “They got me a ferret. A ferret, they said it was the dry land otter. I was unhappy for a bit, but then the little bugger came over and sat in my lap. I was hooked. So now Otty, that’s what I named him, and I have been best friends. You’d be surprised how much he helps me out on a bad day.” Tristan turned towards Rory and smiled. “Well, we had better go.” “Yeah, I guess we should.” Rory watched Tristan as he pushed away from the bar and began to make his way towards the meeting place. She shook her head, she would never understand him. *** “Excellent.” Mr. Good exclaimed while rocking back and forth on his heels. The team had just won their first match. All four of its members beamed up at Mr. Good from their seats. “Now do it three more times and we’ll make it into finals.” Mr. Good was pulled away from the group by another team advisor. The group knew that he would be in the conversation for quite some time. “So.... what are the plans for tonight?” Steve asked. “I don’t know.” Came the chorus of the other three. “Well lets make some.” Steve suggested. The groups began to discuss where to go as they walked towards the cafeteria for dinner. Any of the plans that had been thought up thus far were turned down for one reason or another. “How about we find a place that plays live jazz? Isn’t this city known for it’s jazz?” Tristan suggested. The others looking around at each other, before turning their attention to a grinning Mr. Good. The evil smirk turned into a grin of knowledge. An hour later the group found themselves on the trolley’s to the French quarter once again. Mr. Good still hadn’t told them where they were headed, he just chuckled to himself every time one of them asked. The team was beginning to become quite scared in all truth... though it really was hard to be scared of a man who was the size of a garden gnome. Once the group had departed the trolley the stepped into the humid night air. The followed Mr. Good as he lead them down Bourbon Street, causing the guys on the team to grin, and the girls to groan in disgust. Their journey took them down some main avenues and then into a little alley. Rory found herself nudging instinctively closer to Tristan. “Scared Rory?” Tristan asked in a whisper, his lips brushing against Rory’s ears sending trembles through her body. “No.” She answered, but Tristan noticed the undeniable quake in her voice. “Don’t worry... I’ll protect you.” Tristan slowly slid his arm around Rory’s waist and pulled her closer. She didn’t pull away like he expected her to, instead she leaned into his touch. There had be a genuine sound in Tristan’s voice that made her feel safe. “Here we are.” Mr. Good stopped suddenly. Tristan and Rory jumped apart, as if they had been caught in an illegal act. He gave the two an eyebrow lift, but ignored their actions. “Exactly where are we?” Steve asked, to him they appeared to just be in an alley. “At Independence Hall.... only the best live jazz in New Orleans.” Suddenly the door next to Mr. Good opened, and the sounds of a crowd floated out to meet their ears. Mr.Good smiled in triumph, the students stayed rooted to their spots. “Well come on, the band isn’t going to come out here.” He went inside the others looked at each other and slowly followed. Each person paid their minimal entrance fee, and they were ushered inside. The heat of the room hit them in the face like a brick. The band was playing loudly, and the crowed cheered and clapped with the music. The room was dark and Rory was having trouble seeing a few inches in front of her. The only faces she could make out were those of the band members that were in the only lighted area. Somehow Rory got pulled away from the rest of the group in the immense crowd. She found herself in the middle of a pack of male college students. For the second time that night she felt scared, and wished Tristan was near to keep her safe. One of the men noticed her and plastered a smile across his face. “Well hello there.” He leered. “And who might you be?” His question caught the attention of his friends who began to look Rory over appreciatively. “Do you go to school here?” Another asked. “I’d love to show you my dorm room.” “What’s cookin good lookin?” “Can I buy you a drink?” “What’s up sweet stuff?” The questions just kept on coming. Rory felt her head spin with fear. The room seemed to be twirling, and Rory felt like she would pass out. The heat was overcoming her and the guys were pressing in. The loud music overwhelming her senses even more. Suddenly she felt someone grab her arm. She tried to jerk away, but the had held her fast. Rory was afraid for her physical safety. She was scared and was about to scream for help, when she heard his voice. “There you are Rory. I’ve been looking for you.” Tristan. He looked so strong as he pushed aside the men who had swarmed her. A jealous rage in his eyes. His visible sized up each man, as if to say ‘lay off... she’s taken... don’t mess with me.’ Rory almost ran into his arms when she found that it was he who at grabbed onto her arm. He slowly pulled her away from the menacing glares of the men surrounding her. As soon as he had pulled her into an empty corner he dropped his macho act. “Are you ok?” Tristan clasped Rory’s hands in hers as he spoke. They were shaking violently. “I.... I....” Rory couldn’t speak. Tears were welling up in her eyes. “It’s ok. I’m here now, they won’t bother you anymore.” “They were everywhere.” Rory’s voice was small and meek, and so unlike her. “Shhhhh.” Tristan stroked her hair back. “Calm down. It’ll be ok.” Tristan pulled her into a hug. His arms wrapping around her. Even in this moment of fright they still felt the shock of their close physical proximity. “I was so scared.” Rory whimpered softly into Tristan’s chest. He placed a hand on the back of her head and began to slowly rub her back with his other. Tristan felt Rory’s tears as the wetness of them seeped into his shirt. It made him so angry to think that a group of men had broken her down like this. Had Tristan been willing to let her go he would have marched over and broken every bone in their bodies. They didn’t know how long they stood there, but it was quite a while. Rory’s tears had ceased, but she refused to pull away from Tristan. He wasn’t ready to let go either. Tristan wanted Rory in his arms at all times so that he knew she was safe. The music still floated through the air calming their raw senses. Tristan felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned his head to see who it was. Steve. “We’re leaving now.” He whispered to Tristan, noticing the unstable state of Rory. “Thanks.” Tristan said to Steve before dipping his head closer to Rory’s. “We’re leaving. You ready to go.” He felt her nod a yes against him. “Come on.” They slowly pulled away from each other, but Tristan kept one arm around her waist. They had to walk right past the men who had caused the problem to begin with. Tristan made sure Rory was on the side away from them. Her head was buried in his shoulder. As the pair made their way past them, Tristan set a lingering glare in each man’s eyes. Never again would he let anyone let Rory like they had. If only he had listened to that piece of advice when he had first met Rory. *** The third morning of their stay they had a match right after breakfast. Mr. Good had been worried that the early morning hour would affect their speed and intelligence. However he had been proven wrong when they easily beat the competition. They had in fact swept one entire round of questioning. Rory almost felt bad for the other team, they key word being almost. After the match the group hung around in the college library, each person doing his or her own thing. Rory had the sneaking suspicion that someone was watching her, but every time she looked up so one was paying any bit of attention to her. What she didn’t notice that Tristan had been “reading a book” in a seat not far from her. He couldn’t concentrate on the text in front of him. After every bit of punctuation he found himself looking up towards Rory. Her back was turned to him, silky brown hair cascading down her shoulders like a waterfall. Every few minutes or so she would look around the room. Tristan would bury his head in his book hiding his face from her gaze, only to return his head to staring at her as soon as she turned back around. Tristan didn’t know what had happened to him. Never before had a girl had such an effect on him. Rory had changed him more than anyone else in his entire life. Not even his beloved grandfather had the effect on him like Rory did. All the girls he had dated before he met Rory were conquests. They were mere trophies to show of to his friends. Then Rory entered into his life. It was like a switch in his brain had clicked. Every girl after he met Rory he used to show that he could give her what he wanted. But every night he would go home and verbally shoot himself down for being such a jerk to her. The day she had told him that she hated him he wanted to die. He went home that night and cried. He had never before cried over anyone, let alone a girl. Those three words were ingrained in his memory forever. The look of sheer disappoint of him in her eyes. The way she ran happily over to Dean. Tristan scowled as he thought of that pair. What he wouldn’t give to be the one she was running to. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Rory stand up and walk out the door. Tristan waited a few seconds before casually set his book down and strolled out the door. He saw Rory walking across the quad to the cafeteria. Tristan glanced down at his watch and realized that it was lunch time. His eyes did not linger on his watch long and returned to Rory. She turned a corner and Tristan hurried across the lawn to catch up to her. What he saw when he turned the corner made his heart stop. As Rory strode across the lawn she failed to notice a group of men closing in on her. They were the same men that had caused so much trouble at the jazz club. Acting on instinct alone Tristan quickly ran across the lawn. Rory was still unaware of the men who were preying upon her. They were closing in and Tristan picked up his pace. Tristan’s arm, acting on its own account, slid around her waist. She felt his lips nuzzle against her ear. “Just keep on moving and don’t look around.” Tristan’s eyes slid over to the guys who had stopped, scowling, a few feet behind them. He stared them down as if daring them to make a move. “What is it Tristan?” Rory was still looking ahead as Tristan told her to do, but a small red blush was creeping up her face. The way Tristan’s breath tickled her ear made her knees weak. This feeling was becoming more and more common. “Last night was just about to repeat itself.” Tristan’s deep calm voice slid into her ear once again. “What?” Rory looked at Tristan in confusion before attempting to turn her head around to see what was behind her. Tristan’s hand on her cheek stopped her, not just her head, but her entire body. The shockwaves that were careening down her body made her breathing become shallow and quick. Tristan’s deep blue eyes gazed into hers. His stare unwavering and unblinking. Rory licked her lips, her mouth suddenly dry. The sun streaming through the swaying trees above sent shadows dancing across their faces. The light making each one of them become even more lost in the moment. As Tristan’s left hand cupped Rory’s cheek, his right hand slowly found it’s way up her arm and into her hair. His fingers entwined with the silky strands. His eyes finally darted from her eyes and down to her deep red lips, and then back up at her eyes. Rory had a feeling that she knew what he was silently asking for, but she couldn’t move. Rory’s breath caught in her throat as she saw Tristan beginning to lean in. All logically thoughts left her head as the aroma of his perfume crept into her senses, intoxicating her to the core. His warm breath played upon her lips. Rory closed her eyes. The only sound she heard was Tristan’s erratic breathing. “Hey! You two coming to lunch?” Tristan was the first to snap out of the trance. He swore under his breath before turning his attention to the person he wanted to kill with his bare hands. Tristan plastered a fake smile on his face as he nodded a yes towards MR. Good. “Well come on.” Tristan saw their coach turn on his heel and trot away. Rory gave Tristan a small smile before breaking away from him and following after Mr. Good. Tristan shook his head in disgrace. He seemed to be mumbling the words ‘evil little man’ under his breath. *** The next two days seemed to fly by. When they were not participating in a match, the group went gallivanting through the city of sin. Rory plopped on her bed after their last day in New Orleans. All in all the group did well, winning all but one match in the preliminary rounds. They moved onto the final round of matches, but got knocked out before they made it to the championships. At first the group was rather depressed, but after a fun time that afternoon in the French quarter, all of their depression seemed to have slipped away. Rory sighed as she threw on her pajamas. Things between Tristan had herself these past few days had been weird to say the least. When she wasn’t near him she longed to be with him, and when she was with him she wasn’t close enough. The feelings were overwhelming her, almost to the point where she didn’t want to be with him. All of the emotions hitting her at once drove into a deep confusion as to what she really wanted. Rory flopped down on her bed once again, only this time she had a book in hand. She planned on loosing herself in the latest book of the Harry Potter saga to keep her mind off things. She settled against the pillows and opened the novel to the first page. A few hours later, somewhere around chapter ten Paris came into the room. Rory looked up only once to see her room mate climb underneath the covers and fall asleep the instant her head hit the pillow. Rory giggled to herself when she heard Steve humming as he went into his room. Her eyes returned to her book and she was lost in the story once again. *** Rory sat under the soft light of the lamp over her bed, the glow of the light illuminating the entrancing words in her book. She was lost in the story and almost missed the soft knock that sounded at the door. She lifted her head and listened more closely. Another knock. She marked the page and closed her book, setting it gently on her pillow. She slipped into her slippers and slowly padded her way to the door, careful not to wake Paris who was asleep in the next bed. Rory unlocked the door and swung it open, revealing Tristan casually leaning against the door frame. His head was downcast, but he lifted it when he heard the door open. Nothing could have hid his beaming smile. “Tristan. What are you doing here?” Rory was startled, not only because he was standing at her door, but because he looked so attractive right then. He wore a pair of tan pants that were held loosely on his hips by a simple black belt. His dress shirt was the same startling blue color as his eyes. The long sleeves were rolled up past his elbows, and the top two buttons were undone revealing a small patch of tanned skin. "Couldn't sleep, decided that I needed to see you." He stood up straight and took the sight of her in. She was wearing a simple black tank top and flannel pajama pants that were a bit to big for her. Her hair was in a messy bun at the top of her head. Simple black slippers covered her tiny feet. In Tristan's opinion she had never looked more beautiful. "It's 11 at night." "I know." "Then why are you here?" "Have you ever seen the French Quarter at night?" His smile became even wider as he saw her eyes light up. There was a mischievous twinkle in them that he had never seen before. Rory slowly closed the door, grinning as she did so. A few moments later Rory emerged from the room, Tristan had trouble keeping his jaw off the floor. Rory had slipped into a simple blue dress. It seemed as if she was trying to find something that matched his shirt. The this straps of the dress showed off the delicate, newly darkened, skin of her collar bone. Tristan could just picture himself placing soft kisses along her neck. The image overwhelmed his senses, he had to shake his head slightly to bring himself back to the real world. “Shall we go?” Tristan offered Rory his arm. “We shall.” She smiled up at him as she looped her arm through his. Somehow the pair managed to sneak out into the night with not so much as a firefly noticing their flight. The night air was thick with moisture from the humid air. The mist seemed to bathe the duo in a dreamy glow. The stood in silence as the waited for the trolley downtown. The moment was not awkward, they silence was time for them to reflect on what had occurred over the past few weeks. Rory turned to face Tristan. The street lamp behind him sent his profile in a halo. His skin looked so warm and comforting, Rory was having trouble keeping her hand off his face. His lips looked soft and smooth, just waiting to be kissed. Rory’s heart ached at that thought. Tristan must have seen Rory staring at him because he turned and his eyes caught hers. He smiled at her. Not his usual all-knowing smirk, but a genuine smile. Rory smiled back, a strange feeling tugged at her heart. Tristan looked down, and Rory, confused, looked down to see what had caught his attention. His eyes were staring directly at her slightly shaking hand. She looked back up at his eyes that were now fixed, once again on hers. He was asking permission. She offered him her hand. He took it just as the streetcar pulled up to them. The driver smiled at the pair as the both paid, and then made there way to the very back of the deserted car. Rory sat down first and Tristan scooted in next to her. The spent the ride pointing at the mansions lining the streets, and the Mardi Gras beads hanging from the trees. Rory was doubled over in giggles more than once as Tristan narrated their journey, and her knees went weak everytime he sent a smile her way. At the end of the trip they joined hands once again and began to casually stroll the streets of the French Quarter. The crowds around them hustled about, some people in a drunk stupor. The music in the atmosphere changed each time they passed a different restaurant and club. Soon Rory found herself being steered, by Tristan, towards a club. The sign read ‘18 and Up Admittance.’ “Tristan?” “Yeah” “Neither of us are 18.” “They don’t know that.” He smirked down at her playfully. “They will when the read our ids.” “You think so?” They conversation ended there for they had reached the entrance. Tristan flashed his id at the bouncer and they were waved inside. Rory went along with it, but was still rather perplexed. Once they were inside Rory stopped Tristan. “Gimme that thing.” She stuck her hand in his back pocket and pulled out his wallet. Tristan froze at her move, it was so unlike Rory. He watched as she removed the id from his wallet. “This says you were born in 1980. Tristan there is no way you look 21.” She put the id back, and put the wallet back in his pocket. “It worked didn’t it?” “Well yes... but...” “But nothing. We’re in now let’s have fun.” Tristan grabbed her hand and led her to the dance floor. The crowd was already moving to the fast paced beat of the music. Steam machines sent cascades of smoke drifting across the black floor. Light beams danced through the crowds, illuminating groups of people and then plunging them back into darkness. Tristan twirled Rory around so that she was facing him. He began to dance to the beat and Rory followed suit. *** The room was beginning to become hot, but whether it was from the temperature or the sparks flying between the two of them they didn’t know. Tristan had undone two more buttons on his shirt, a great expanse of tan flesh now meet Rory’s eyes everytime she looked down. Somewhere along the line Tristan had pulled Rory closer to him, his hand resting on the small of her back. Her arms were thrown about his neck. Rory was sure her mother would kill her if she saw how close she a Tristan were. Rory could hear his unsteady breathing as his lips dipped towards her ear. “Let’s get out of here.” Rory nodded in response for her voice had failed her. Tristan grabbed her hand and she followed him out the door. The streets were still crowded with people. Rory had now idea where they were going, but she didn’t ask. Tristan seemed to know where he was going. The streets they turned onto slowly became less and less crowded, until they were the only two left. Tristan turned one last corner and then stopped. Rory saw that they were standing in a deserted Jackson square. The street lamps were the only light. The light radiated off the damp cobblestones. Rory felt a drop on her nose, Tristan felt one on his cheek. Soon the were both covered in the rainy mist that had come out of no where. Tristan was ready to run for cover, but Rory had grabbed him before he had a chance to pull her away. “What are you doing Rory?” Tristan laughed. “I’m singing in the rain.” Rory chirped out to him as she twirled around a lamp post. Tristan laughed again, and joined her. Rory couldn’t ever remembering having so much fun. She and Tristan danced in and out of the puddles, and skipped along the street like carefree children. They’re laughter mingled with the drizzling rain. “I’ve got an idea!” Tristan exclaimed. He grabbed Rory’s hand and pulled her along the street. “Where are you headed?” “You’ll see.” Tristan smiled down at her. *** “You are a god.” Rory’s mouth hung open as she saw the large Cafe le Monde in front of them. This place was world renowned for its coffee and pastries. “I know I know.” Tristan rubbed his nails on his now damp, and clingy, shirt. “And so modest to.” Rory laughed. Tristan started into the cafe, Rory happily followed. As the waited in line Rory happened to glance at her watch. “Oh no!” “What?” Tristan looked around to see if Rory was in any danger. “This night has been the best of my life, but can we get the food to go?” “Why?” “Because it’s 5am.” “No.” “Yes.” “Yeah, to go would be a good idea.” Tristan stepped up to the window and ordered. *** "It's really tasty Tristan." Rory licked her lips ridding them of the excess powdered sugar. She waved the beignet in front of his eyes. "You know you want some." She took another bit and let out a satisfied moan. Closing her eyes savoring the sugary goodness. "Are you going to let me have a bite?" Tristan leaned in and tried to nip at the pastry. Rory jerked it away from his teeth. "Ummm... I think no." Rory took another bite. Tristan slouched back into the seat defeatedly. "Please... I mean who's idea was it to go to that cafe?" "Yours..... but you still can't have any." Rory licked her lips and Tristan's eyes slowly drifted to them. There had been so many times when he wanted to kiss her since the beginning of the school year. That one short kiss at Madelyn's party was not enough to satisfy his hunger for her. Things had changed between them now. And now was the time to make his move. "Please Rory." Tristan voice was full of want but not for the piece of fried dough that was in her hand. He leaned forward towards her. Rory saw his mouth and leaned back trying to get away from him, because she thought he was after her dessert. "I don't think so." Rory pulled her arm back. It slowly moved over her head putting the pastry out of his reach. "But I want." He was beginning to whine now, but the lust was still in his voice. He placed one hand on the back of the bench, and his other on the other side of her hip. Trapping her between him and the wall of the streetcar. "But you can't have." Rory's breathing quickened at his nearness. The heat of his body searing into her. She could smell the damp rain that clung to him and mingled with his cologne. The aroma intoxicating her senses. His eyes pleaded with her, asking for permission. "Says who?" His voice was hushed and deep. "Says me." Rory popped the last bit of the beignet in her mouth and chewed slowly before swallowing. Tristan's bottom lips moved out in a pout as he leaned in even closer. The hand that was by her hip moved up to rest of her thigh. "All gone." "Not quite." The hand that was on the back of the bench moved slowly to her mouth. It brushed away the excess powdered sugar that was resting on her soft lips. He licked his thumb, the sugar mixing with the tantalizing taste of Rory. Suddenly the urge to taste the remnants of the powder on her lips became over whelming. He leaned in ever closer to her. The lips mere centimeters from each other. Their shallow breaths mingling with each other. Tristan lifted her chin with his hand. The feeling of him touching her sending shockwaves rolling through both of them. It felt only natural to kiss her... so he did. Rory wasn’t prepared for the feeling that exploded from her when his soft lips captured hers. *** Rory's lips pulled at his, urging him closer. She met no resistance as he leaned more of his weight on her. One of her hands moved up his shirt and managed to find its way to his bare chest. They both gasped at the sensation of warmth that grew at that moment. Tristan's hand slowly massaged her thigh in slow circles while the other was entwined in her hair. Rory felt like she was in a dream. The sensations going through her were like nothing she had ever felt before. The warmth of Tristan’s body as it pressed against her, the urgent need to feel him even closer, his lips, his hands, they were all she could think about. Suddenly a new player came onto the scene. Tristan was slowly running his tongue along her bottom lip, begging to bring up the passion level of the kiss. Rory tilted her head up and opened her lips giving him complete access. She moaned softly into his mouth as their tongues made their first contact. The electricity of the moment was enough to fuel New York City during a heat wave. Rory’s hand slowly made its way around Tristan’s chest and onto his back. His strong muscles quivered at the feeling of Rory’s exploration. She slowly massaged her fingertips into his back. Tristan struggled to keep his sanity. His hand moved from Rory’s thigh up to her waist, slowly pulling her closer to him. The ride back to the dorm seem to fly by as their lips met in tender sweet caresses, and deep passionate kisses. Each time one of them pulled away to catch their breath, it was only an instant before they returned to each other. It seemed as if they were trying to make up all the missed opportunities in one night. Tristan was the first to finally pull away. His eyes searched Rory’s for any sense of regret, or maybe he was making sure that this moment was really happening. “What?” She looked at him questioningly, blue eyes shimmering. “Is this really happening? Am I dreaming? Are you a mirage?” He took her hand and squeezed it lovingly. “I was going to ask the same thing.” Tristan smiled when he saw the happiness on her face. “Do you know how hard it was for me to be around you without thinking about what this might feel like?” “I do. The mental anguish... the heartache. If I had known... I guess we danced around it long enough.” “Too long.” Tristan kissed her one more time before pulling her out of her seat at their stop. The walk back to the dorms occurred, once again, in silence. Tristan simply slipped his arm around Rory’s waist, pulling her close. She leaned her head against his shoulder revealing in the feeling off all that had occurred. They slipped into the dorm, and sneaked their way back to their rooms. Neither wanted the night to end. Rory leaned back against the wall near her door. Her eyes looked longing up at Tristan’s handsome face. “This seems like a fairy tale.” Rory said as Tristan leaned over her, one hand of his in each of hers. His body brushed against hers ever so slightly, shocks shooting between both of them. “Yes it does, but unlike fairy tales the story doesn’t end when the book does. Each day is a new chapter.” Tristan leaned in a captured Rory’s lips again in a sweet and tender kiss goodnight.