I do not own Higher Ground or any of its characters. *Does anyone still review? Any requests? Is it a fresh of breathe air to read about someone other than Scott and Shelby, or do you think, "How dare she/he separate Scott and Shelby! S&S 4 ever!" If anything, I hope my stories expand upon Juliette who had a lot of potential for growth. She also had some psychological issues that were overlooked but were interesting. I hope one day to be able to tackle Auggie, Katherine, Ezra, and Daisy in a story as well.
Story:
"I've never done that before."
Her statement could have meant that she had never been bold enough to initiate a kiss with someone. Prim and proper princesses did not walk up to someone and kiss them. However, the issue was far more embarrassing for her. She had NEVER been kissed much less initiated one.
Her desperation to beat Shelby mixed with a strong need for attention by someone…anyone…drove her to the act. While in the shower that morning, her insecurities came in full force. Why did she even challenge Shelby upon seeing Scott? Shelby was so pretty with her big dark blue eyes, her golden blond hair, and pink rosebud mouth. Shelby looked the way Juliette desperately wanted to look. Shelby had the confidence and cockiness males always seemed to want too. She knew few males had probably ever turned down Shelby Merrick.
She was never going to let Shelby know she was jealous. The word "jealous" popped into her mind before she quickly suppressed it. She swallowed the lump in her throat. She just had to prove to herself that she was good enough!
By the time she finished drying her hair, she had formulated a plan. A plan that needed to be done the very same day before Shelby could bat her eyes with her long lashes and give a witty remark at Juliette's expense. It was annoying how Shelby could be a "witch" because she damaged, and it was viewed as a sign of her toughness. Anytime Juliette showed some sass, she was being a spoiled brat. Typical ole' Juliette.
Immediately after the kiss, Juliette didn't know if she wanted to cry from fear or joy. She had never been so bold. It was a defining moment for her. She was proud of herself for aiming so well and landing on his lips. She would've died of embarrassment if she missed and got his nose or half of his cheek instead.
His lips were warm and softer than she ever imagined. His whole face lit up because of her one action. He even smiled for once.
She soared into the clouds. Her adrenaline still coursing through her. She felt giddy and free. She danced into the dorm room. Light as a fairy queen. She couldn't remember the last time she felt this way. It had been years, although most people assumed it was only minutes ago. Her mask was a good one.
As she slowly drifted back down to Earth, she became terrified. She didn't know how to kiss! What happened now? He would surely be able to tell she was a naïve, inexperienced nitwit. He'd seek Shelby out for the real passion. Just like Brandon did with Suzie Thorton…
She was relieved to help in the search party for the little girl. Her worries directed toward the little girl. Thankfully, she was found. The day also meant their routine was interrupted, and she didn't see Scott the rest of the day. Lunch had been painfully awkward enough.
She laid in bed processing the day. The moment now seemed surreal and far away. She wandered what was going to happen now. Yes, she had attracted boys and dated some, but the relationships always fizzled. She was left alone. Maybe it was a good thing. She was desperate for attention but refused to lower her standards just for temporary attention. Besides, sex was bad. Desire was improper. She was curious but any attempt to satisfy it through questions was met with "Juliette, that's not like you," or "Juliette, you're so cute and naïve" by her friends. Some thought she was a tease, while others knew what a prude she was and didn't bother. Some viewed her as a challenge until they realized her mom kept a tight leash on her. After her hospitalization, she was a social pariah, especially to the boys. They thought she was too needy, too high maintenance…too crazy. Perhaps so, perhaps so.
She woke up extra early for morning kitchen duty. She liked the quietness and alone time. She was still wracked with anxiety, although it was mixed with lingering elated joy.
She sensed someone near her and found bright blue eyes looking at her. She jumped back in surprise.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you. I thought you would have heard me," Scott said softly. Juliette tried to fight the growing nervousness as well as the desire his close proximity gave her. Scott looked around nervously too.
"I'm glad we found the little girl yesterday. Well, Ezra found her, but she's okay," he made small talk.
He hadn't moved away from her. She smiled and agreed. They looked silently at each other. He placed his hands on both side of her face and slowly lowered his head. He gave her a slow, lingering kiss. At first, she thought she was going to melt into a puddle. Then, she panicked at what to do before clearing her mind to savor his lips on hers. She mimicked his actions. It felt like one of the most natural things. Scott felt her relax and stepped closer to her. His arms encircled her, and he deepened the kiss. For once, everything in her mind cleared away. For once, she enjoyed the feeling of desire.
It was only her and Scott.