A/N: I debated with myself on whether or not to use this particular step of the list because, as you'll notice, this step could have possibly been covered with the first chapter. I had actually decided to skip this one, but then I got an idea for it, so I went ahead and wrote this. As always, let me know what you think of it.
FanFic 100 Challenge #: 069- Thunder
I Like You
"Your Majesty?" Joseph's voice called from behind Clarisse.
Clarisse smiled at the rich, warm tone of his voice. That voice could still send shivers down her spine no matter how many times she heard it.
"Yes?" she answered, turning to face him.
Joseph cleared his throat.
"I was wondering if you would like to accompany me for a walk around the garden."
"Only if you promise me something," Clarisse said.
"Anything," he replied.
Joseph had not meant to be so forward, but she acted as though she did not mind.
"Call me Clarisse."
Joseph smiled as his cheeks ever-so-lightly flushed pink.
"I promise."
"Good," Clarisse laughed as Joseph took his place beside her.
They walked outside into the garden together. It was a starless night, and the moon appeared only as a small silver sliver against the black sky. Fortunately, some light from the castle poured over into the garden so that it was not completely impossible for Clarisse and Joseph to see, despite the absence of light from the moon and stars above. Crickets sang their joyous nocturnal tune somewhere in the distance, making the garden seem as if it was lightly pulsing with melody.
As they conversed and strolled through the garden, Clarisse made certain that she remained close to Joseph at all times. It wasn't that she was afraid of the darkness, however, as much as it was the strong sense of safety and unconditional comfort that Clarisse received from Joseph that made her desire to stay so close to him. Occasionally as they were walking, Clarisse could feel Joseph's hand brush softly against hers, sending chills through her body. She inhaled deeply and reached out into the dark, catching his hand within hers. Joseph smiled as he felt Clarisse's hand in his, though she could not see him do this. He began gently rubbing his thumb against the back of her hand as if to tell her that he welcomed the physical contact. An urge came over Joseph to pull Clarisse into his arms, but fear of ruining the moment between them kept him from doing so.
Suddenly, a bolt of light flashed in the eastern sky. In only a few short moments later, a terrible rumbling noise accompanied the blaze.
"The thunderstorms weren't supposed to move in until tomorrow morning," Joseph mumbled as crisp rain drops began falling rapidly around them.
Before either of them could move, a few rain drops became a continuous flood of water, soaking Clarisse and Joseph. They began running… or hastening, rather, towards the castle door, their hands still intertwined. Clarisse's beautiful laughter rang through Joseph's ears as another streak of lightning flashed in the sky. He watched her as she panted slightly, the sound of thunder roaring even louder than before. Merriment danced in her eyes, making her appear much more youthful than he could ever remember her.
"That was exciting," Clarisse said with a laugh, looking as though her own actions had surprised her.
"It certainly was," Joseph grinned.
Joseph had wanted to tell her how much more amazingly beautiful she had been in those moments when she had allowed herself to be free from her worries and Queenly duties, but he instead remained silent as Clarisse slowly and reluctantly released his hand as they walked inside. She smiled at him, and he smiled at her in return. Clarisse's dripping wet clothes and hair did nothing to languish her loveliness; on the contrary, Joseph believed she looked more beautiful then than ever before, if it were possible.
Joseph could not help but to laugh at himself and his situation. There he stood, soaked with rain and falling… no, fallen… for the Queen of Genovia.
TO BE CONTINUED
A/N: This comes from the part of the list that says "Holding hands means I like you."