Sandy's Saga

Chapter 7

The Fair

XXX

"You seem distracted," Soda said, breaking into my thoughts. I shook my head, clearing the fog away.

"I just can't hear you over the roar of the engines." I answered loudly. And truth be told, it was ear-piercingly loud out here. Seems everyone wanted to gun the engines at the same time, some rush of testosterone proving each car – and thus each driver – was more manly than the next. I was over it the first time Soda'd brought me here, but he liked this stuff; so therefore I feigned interest too.

Surprisingly, Evie seemed to like this stuff. That, or she was better at faking it. She could name off different makes of cars just as fast as Steve could teach them to her. Sodapop had tried to teach me, but unless it had the make written on the side of the car, on the hood, or on the bumper.. I was lost. Still, I played along trying to be a good sport.

"Hungry?" he asked.

I grinned. Finally, a chance to sit down. "Yeah."

I found a table and sat, waiting while he got us some hot dogs and drinks. "Here ya go," he said, putting the food down and sitting next to me. "I was thinking, you want to go to the movies with me? Next weekend?"

I nearly laughed, choking on my drink. "You hate movies," I reminded him.

"Yeah, but we don't necessarily have to watch the movie." His eyes were bright, but I wasn't as thrilled about the idea.

"Sodapop, is that all I am?"

He looked confused. "What?"

"I mean, ever since the pecan grove, it's like.. that's all you want to do."

He sat back, scratching his head. "No it ain't. I mean, we're here.. having fun.... ain't we?"

My shoulders slumped. I took a bite of my hot dog, stalling. "Yeah, we're here having fun." However, my tone was less than enthusiastic.

"Sandy, sweets... what's wrong?" At least he was considerate enough to sound sincere.

"Nothing, I guess. I just miss the fun stuff we used to do, you know.. hanging out together and all. It's.. changed, somehow."

He put his arm around me. "Never doubt how I feel for you, Sandy. I've been pushing things, is that it?"

It took me a while to answer. "A little. Not that I didn't want it, though. I love you too, Sodapop. It's just.. I want to have fun too."

He smiled, brushing my hair away from my face. "Then you name it. What would you like to do next weekend?"

I smiled. "The fair. It's coming to Tulsa next weekend, and I'd like to go. I know it's sort of expensive, but I have some money ... you won't have to pay for everything."

He ran his fingers through his hair, a look on his face telling me he was figuring it out. "I think that would be great. Maybe we could double? You and me, Steve and Evie?"

My smile faded. "No, I was thinking more along the lines of just you and me for a change. Not that I don't like Steve or Evie....."

He kissed me lightly on my cheek. "Say no more, Sandy. You and me next weekend. Alone. At the fair. And you can pick out the rides, too."

Finally, I had reason to smile. I kissed him back, a light peck on the lips. "Thanks, Sodapop."

* * *

"So, he's taking you to the fair? Really?" Jane asked as she and I were huddled on the outside steps in the quad, enjoying the brief stint of warm sunlight on what was looking like a fast approaching fall. It was lunchtime; she was having a sandwich and chips along with a Pepsi she'd swiped from the teachers lounge, while I downed a slice of pizza and a candy bar – the pizza from the cafeteria and the candy from the same place she got her Pepsi. One day those teachers will learn to lock the door. I mean honestly... we're hovering on our late teenage years here... we're not stupid.

"That's what he promised. I can't wait!"

"I'm going in the middle of next week, after the crowds die down some. I hate long lines."

I looked at the sky. "Hope the weather cooperates. I'd hate to have to postpone it."

She gave me a sly look. "I'm sure you two could find something else to do to keep each other company!"

I tried not to be embarrassed. "And what is that supposed to mean?"

"Sandy! Come on! You don't mean to tell me you and Coke Boy haven't.....?"

I gave her the most innocent look I could come up with, hoping my acting skills were good enough.

"Damn, you haven't! Shoot, honey, what are you waiting on? Half the junior class want to jump his bones. What's your problem?"

I rolled my eyes. "Honestly, Jane. There's more to us than that. He's a great kisser... but, well... it's just not the right time."

"Uh huh. I never thought I'd believe it."

"Hey Darlin! Say, where'd you get them drinks from?"

"Two-Bit, can't you see we're in a private conversation here?" Jane asked with disgust. That was another problem with high school... there simply wasn't any privacy. Along with Two-Bit came the rest of the boys. Steve wasn't far behind Two-Bit, and bringing up the rear were Ponyboy and Johnny.

"Maybe the same place they got theirs," I answered, noticing Ponyboy and Johnny both had cola's in their hands too.

"Nah, doubt that. Those were gimmies from our little lunch stop. I didn't see you there, or I'da said 'hey'."

"Gimmies?" Jane asked. I hid a smile. I knew Two-Bit's lingo well enough considering how much Sodapop had mentioned it.

"Yeah. I see something I like, I say... 'gimmie.'" He grinned at his own joke, the rest of the boys stifling their own amusement.

"Common thief." Jane smirked, obviously disgusted. I didn't want to point out we lifted drinks and snacks from the teachers lounge just about every day.

"Well, darlin... a man has to eat, ya know. Besides, the kiddies were starving. You wouldn't deny food to starving children, would you?"

At that point he was obviously referring to Ponyboy and Johnny. Ponyboy smirked – I knew how much he hates being termed a "boy" or "child", but Johnny looked absolutely chagrined. Thankfully, the bell rang, ending this pointless conversation and ruining my enjoyment of the sunshine.

"See ya, Steve; Two-Bit. Bye Sandy." Ponyboy called out as he and the ever silent Johnny turned back to class.

"Later, Ponyboy," I answered. At least the kid had manners.

"Here, let me help you," Two-Bit bowed, offering his hand to help me to my feet. I didn't get him - one moment he was being a sarcastic ass, the next, almost considerate. Steve, on the other hand, never was hard to figure out. He'd offered his hand to Jane but she promptly shook her head.

"Two-Bit, one day I'm gonna figure you out," I insisted, "but that day ain't today." I turned to leave before he could say another word, heading into the building and escaping into the crowd.

* * *

Anticipation had built for the fair the whole week. I had picked out my clothes in advance, played with my hair – pulling it back into a ponytail since I knew the rides would whip it around. Last thing I needed was to look like Medusa as I snuggled next to Soda on the rides.

And I counted out my change in my coin purse, certain I had enough for the both of us to have a decent time. Of course, I expected him to want to pay, but I also knew he probably wouldn't have much since he gave most of his check to Darry for their expenses. Still, he should have enough to cover the cost of his own ticket. Even if he didn't, I'd loan him the money – never really expecting him to pay me back.

Friday came, and with it... tests. It was a blur, Math, Chemistry, English - and that was just the morning.

"Who's friggin' idea was it to schedule every class with tests on Friday?" Miranda grumbled, setting her things next to me as we huddled outside during lunch. It wasn't warm like it was earlier in the week, but it was still passable.

"I don't know, but they obviously didn't have this much stuff to learn when they were in school. This is insane!" groused Mary, another of the girls. I looked for Jane, but she was no where to be found. I rolled my eyes. If she kept this up, she would start failing every year just like Two-Bit!

"Well, at least the day is almost over," I suggested. They scoffed.

"So? Oh, I forget. You're the goody goody who passes everything." Miranda jeered with a roll of her eyes.

"I study. That's how I pass. You should try it sometime. Those F's on your report card don't stand for 'fabulous' you know. Might even pull them up to a whole D!"

Miranda gave me "the look", slung her bag over her shoulder and went away. Not like my victory was long lived - the bell rang and off we went again. Anything, I thought, just to get Saturday here.

* * *

The sky was perfect that morning. It was still cool but the sun was bright, helping to warm things up. I knew Soda was working the morning shift so I didn't expect him to call or come by until four-ish. It was hard containing myself, so eager for the afternoon to get here.

"Sandra, I swear honey.... sit still!" Mom implored.

"If you have that much energy, why don't you go help your mother with housework!" Dad insisted as he smoked his pipe and read his paper.

I couldn't help it, but I knew I had to settle down. Since I couldn't, I headed off to the DX anyway, eager to see him.

* * *

"Hey, sweets." Soda smiled as I walked up. A bunch of girls were hanging around, each eying me with disdain as he kissed me. I felt the smallest bit of satisfaction knowing he was my man and not theirs... and while they could look all they wanted, they couldn't touch the merchandise. Hah!

"What time are you getting off?"

He sort of blinked hard, looking down. "Sandy, sweets, I know I promised, but something's come up. See, one of the guys called out sick and the boss can't find anyone to cover. He offered me double time to work his shift too. I had to say yes, it's a no-brainer. I was gonna call you...."

I did my best not to look as hurt as I felt. "Today? He had to call out today?"

"He said he was sick. Anyway, it ain't up to me if he calls out or not. But it's double pay, Sandy! That's a lot of dough, and we sort of need it. Besides, I can take you out this week to the fair. It ain't like they won't be here for a few days. We have time."

I nodded, understanding – yet hating it at the same time. I tried not to let on.

"It's my job, Sandy. But we'll go out – like I said. This week. Anyway, it's gonna get cold out later."

I did my best to summon a fake smile. "It's alright. Really, I understand. I'd better go, so you can get back to work. I'll call you later."

I started to leave the service bay where he was standing but he pulled me into a kiss. "I love you, sweets. You know that, right?"

I nodded. "I know. And I love you too. Now, go back to work."

He grinned and turned, and I headed home. However, the tears that I'd kept at bay sprung free. I wiped them away as they fell, one at a time. By the time I'd made it back home, I was too numb to cry. Thankfully, my eyes still worked. There, in my driveway, was Scott. A curious grin on his face.

"I thought you'd forgotten."

Obviously, I had. "Sorry?"

He looked down, grinning wider. "I asked you last weekend if we could go out. You said yes. Did your plans change?"

I shook my head. "No, I'm free."

"Wonderful. Where would you like to go?"

This time it was my turn to grin. "The fair, if that's okay."

He opened his truck door, holding out his hand to help me in. Once he got in next to me, he smiled and started the engine. As we drove along, his hand found it's way to mine, eventually holding it. I was surprised – the feeling of his hand didn't bother me. I found the warmth soothing, especially after the heartbreak I had just had with Sodapop.

"What's wrong?"

I looked at him. "What makes you think something's wrong?"

"That far off look in your eye."

"You're good are reading people," I surmised. "But it's nothing I can't handle."

"I promise I'm a good listener."

I couldn't look at him for a while, letting his words hang in the air. Finally, I had to ask. "Have you got a girlfriend?"

His expression lifted, as if I'd told a joke. "Not yet, but I'm working on it. Why?"

"Well, if you had one, would you stand her up for the sake of a few extra dollars?"

"No. Not if I'd made plans to be with her. Why?"

Again, I let it hang. "Just wondering," I answered, as I twined my fingers in with his.

He paid for everything, the tickets to get in and all the rides as well. Even won me a stuffed bear at the shooting gallery. Took him three times to get it; but once he figured out how it was rigged, it was easy. Or so it looked. Either way, I had a bear sitting next to me as he took me home. Sodapop was right, though, it had turned cold.

"Come here," he said as another chill made me shiver. I slid closer to him, noticing the sweet smell of his aftershave. He wrapped his arm around me, running his finger over my shoulder. I hated to admit it, but I liked it.

"It's a little early still. You want to go home or go driving?"

I smiled. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and the stars twinkled everywhere. "Driving," I answered. "The view on Beaver Point is great."

Scott changed lanes and headed off to Beaver Point. While most of Tulsa is relatively flat, Beaver Point has the only view of town outside of a tall building. Surprisingly, there wasn't anyone else there.

"Guess most people are at the fair," he laughed as he idled the car, keeping the heat running.

"That or at home in front of a fireplace," I agreed. We sat there for a while, saying nothing. His fingers continued to softly skim over my shoulder, either going in circles or up and down my arm.

"Sandy?" Scott asked softly.

I looked at him, his face so close I could feel the warmth of his breath on my cheek. "Yeah?"

"Can I kiss you?"

I hesitated. "I have a boyfriend, Scott...."

"It's just a kiss."

His eyes were charming, glowing almost in the moonlight. I wasn't sure if he kissed me or I kissed him, but I didn't answer – instead I reveled in how he tasted, how his mouth moved with mine. Soda was commanding, whereas Scott allowed me to kiss back, with just as much energy.. just as much want. I was breathless when we broke apart.

"Wow...." I gasped.

He was rubbing the back of my neck with his fingers, sending chills up my spine.

"This boyfriend of yours... he do that for you?"

He didn't ask in a mean way, more like he was curious. I couldn't say the word, but I shook my head.

"Does he do anything for you?"

I looked at Scott. "I love him." Even though I said it, it was more like a defensive answer, not a heartfelt one.

"But when he touches you, is it fulfilling?"

I shook my head to figure it out. "What are you taking about? He loves me back."

Scott waited, saying nothing more. Then he leaned in again, nuzzling my neck, kissing me with passion I hadn't felt before. My body deceived me, arching into him.

"Love has nothing to do with it. He can love you, but if he doesn't fulfill you, then you are missing out on life's biggest pleasure."

His kisses continued, but stayed where exposed flesh was available. Scott didn't try to force me, which teased me more. I felt myself wanting more but resisted that urge.

However, I couldn't resist his kiss. He leaned over me, my back using the bear as a pillow as he kissed my lips, sliding his tongue over them until I allowed him passage to my mouth again. Neither his tongue nor mine fought for control, instead, it was almost like a dance, each a partner. I hadn't experienced this with Sodapop, who - again - tended to be in control of everything.

"Are you and your boyfriend intimate?" he whispered, as if the question was a secret he wouldn't tell.

My eyes deceived me. My body too. I nodded in silence.

"Does he make you explode with passion?"

At this, I crinkled my forehead, not understanding. He, however, understood completely.

"Oh Sandy... I can make you understand. But only if you want to. And not tonight." He kissed me again, my body molding to his. I felt him then, through his jeans. He lingered a moment then pulled away, returning to sit behind the steering wheel. "I want to, but I won't. Not unless you say I can. And I want you to think about it before you answer. But if you say yes... I can fulfill you in ways that boyfriend of yours can't. Or - you can wonder what you are missing. Either way, I leave it to you. Now, I'd better get you home. I don't want your parents upset with me for keeping you out too late."

And as he drove me home, his arm around my shoulder with my hand on his knee.. I began to consider his offer. Still, I needed to think on it.

"Can I see you next weekend?" Scott asked.

"No." I answered.

His jaw tightened, saying nothing. I noticed, though, that his fingers stopped their motion on my shoulder.

"Wednesday. I'm out of school Wednesday. If you can, that is."

Scott looked at me and smiled. "For you, I'll be there."

And honestly, I hoped he meant it.

* * *

Calla Lily Rose

A/N - written rather quickly, proofed twice. I'm not perfect, might have some typo's. Sorry, please forgive.