Saturday night at Merlotte's had come and gone much the same way Friday had. Busy and chock full of rude, poor tippers drawn in by the weekends attraction; it made for an exhausting shift that Sookie was thankful was now over. The one thing she had anticipated, and wished for to save her from the aggravation of the night, was a visit from Bill that never came. All night long, she found herself looking toward the door to see who had just come in; or if she was too busy to notice, she made sure to scan the faces in her section certain that at any moment she would spot him there, but the closer it came to closing the deeper her disappointment set in. She had been too busy to consider why he did not come to see her, but now alone in her car she could not help but wonder. Yes, she did tell him she would not be free until Sunday, but that did not deter him from coming in last night, and seeing him would have been a welcome distraction.

As Sookie began to climb the steps to her house, she noticed a wrapped bunch of flowers placed at the doors threshold. She smiled as she reached down to pick them up, knowing immediately whom they were from. It was 11 sunflowers, one of her favorites, bound with green tissue paper and a peach ribbon. As she lay the bouquet across her forearm to allow her to unlock the door, she noticed there was a card stuck in amongst the stems. Once she made it inside and sat down her things she pulled out the card to read it, anxious to see what it said.

Dearest Sookie,

After seeing how busy you were last night and undoubtedly where tonight as well, I did not want to be a distraction at work again, but did want to give you something that brightened your spirits and help to make you to smile until tomorrow night when I can spend the evening trying to for myself.

See you just after dark.

Sweet Dreams,
Bill Compton

Having read the note to herself two more times, hearing Bill's voice in her head as she did so, she pressed the card to her heart and giggled like a teenager as she went to the kitchen in search of a vase. After arranging the stems with care, she placed them on the small table next to her bed and fell asleep with a smile at her lips and thoughts of Bill kissing them.

Sookie had just finished pinning her hair up in to a messy bun when she heard a knock at her door. She gave herself a quick once over in the mirror before turning out the light and then hurried to answer it. She was greeted by the vision of Bill wearing a grey henley, dark jeans, and a smile, while holding a single sunflower.

"Good evening, Sookie."

"Hi, Bill." She replied with a gleaming smile.

"Ah, there is the smile I had hoped to see. The flowers did the trick then, and here is the one I held back to insure I could see that smile for myself." Bill reached out as if to give her the flower, but took her hand with his left instead and brought it to his mouth to place a kiss on it. "Though I fear its beauty is lost amidst your own radiance."

"Why Mr. Compton, aren't you full of flattery this evening?" Her hand still in his, reluctant to let go. "While the flowers are lovely and did bring a smile every time I looked at them today, it was the sight of you just now that made me, as you said, radiant. That seems to be the effect your presence has on me, if I may be so honest to say."

If Bill could have blushed, he would have. He had not expected her candor over such a simple thing, but it made his stomach flutter. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

"Then you must know how I feel every time I lay my eyes upon you."

The two of them stood silent a moment as they took in the sight of the other until Bill reached out.

"Your flower, milady"

"Thank-you." Sookie took the stem and brought the bloom to her nose as Bill offered her his arm.

"Shall we?" He asked.

She reached inside and grabbed her keys, locked the door and took hold of what he offered.

"Yes, lets."

Once in the car she asked, "So, what is the plan for the night?"

"Well, I thought we could go to the Fair since this isthe last night it is in town."

"Oh." She responded a little under whelmed.

Bill's eyebrows rose at her obvious tone. "Does that disappoint you?"

"No…well, maybe. I'm just not a big fan of the Fair is all."

"Really, why is that? I would have thought the change of pace would have been welcome."

"Well, the crowd for one, I don't do well in them, and it seems to be a waste of hard earned money if you ask me."

"I see. May I ask when was the last time you had been to a Fair?"

"Me? Oh gosh, must have been when I was younger. Gran would take Jason and I, but as I got older I told her we didn't need to go, as I knew she did not have the extra money to throw away. Plus, the crowds were just too much for me to be around. Once I started to work I was either scheduled for shifts the whole time it was in town or I did not care to throw my own money away."

Bill considered her reasons before he spoke and chose his words carefully since money was always a touchy subject. "Well, if you do not mind, I would like to experience it for myself, as it has been a very long time since I have been to one and I was hoping to see what all the fuss was about. As for any cost, this is a date remember? It is my pleasure to spend any amount needed just to be able to enjoy time with you. Besides, I think the both of us could use some fun. As far as the crowd, you just say the word and we are gone."

Sookie thought about it for a moment and had to admit she could use a chance to unwind after the last couple of days.

"Okay, you have a deal."

The Fair was lit up with bright, colorful lights that beckoned for you to come enjoy the rides or test your skill at a game and win a prize. The smell of popcorn, cotton candy and funnel cakes competed against the smell of pepper & onions grilling with Italian Sausages; The sound of bell's that chimed, announcing another winner, and men on microphones beckoning for you to come try your luck. It was just as Sookie remembered from all those years ago, she could not help but let the excitement infect her; it made her feel like a kid again. Bill had been watching Sookie as she took in their surroundings as they walked and noticed the youthful sparkle in her eyes, he felt a sense of joy coming from her that made him happy. When she had told him she did not care for the idea, he had been afraid she would change her mind and have them leave as soon as she seen the amount of people gathered. Instead, she simply reached down as they were walking, took his hand into her own and briefly closed her eyes at the relief she always seemed to gain from their contact. When she opened them, they looked like any other couple out on a date holding hands.
"What would you like to do first?" He asked her.

"Geez, I'm not sure where to start."

"Are you hungry? We could find something you would like, or wait to eat later at Merlotte's if you prefer. I realize I did not let you know my plans for the evening; you were probably prepared for dinner somewhere." Suddenly worried he had left her disappointed and hungry.

"No, here is fine. I don't believe I could hold out for Merlotte's after smelling all the different foods they have here anyway, but I'm fine for now." Sookie replied.

"Okay. Anything you want, just say the word. I want to have the whole Fair experience, so I will have to indulge through you." He said matter-of-factly while giving her hand a gentle squeeze.

"Alright then…how about we try some rides? We can get tickets over here." She said as she pulled him with her toward the ticket booths.

"Lead the way." He said, grinning to himself.

The first ride they tried out was the 'Merry Mixer', which sent Sookie right into Bill squashing him against the outside of the cart from its centripetal force. Both found themselves laughing hysterically as Sookie tried desperately to hang on to the lap bar and pull her weight off of Bill only to lose her grip and slam into him again. On the rollercoaster, they both held their arms high into the air and yelled with every drop the ride made, leaving their stomachs at the top of each hill. In the haunted house, Bill could not believe the cliché scare tactics used or the B-grade costumes on puppets, but they did do their job to have Sookie jump at every turn and bury her face into his shoulder. Bill took advantage no matter how ridiculous it was and placed his arms around her for the pseudo protection.

Next, they moved onto a ride named 'Gravitron', which looked a lot like what movies make out a space ship to be, Bill thought. The two of them went inside with the rest of the riders and were instructed to line up along the outer wall directly in front of a full-length pad. There were not enough riders to take up every space, so everyone had spread out that left empty spaces between groups. Sookie remembered what this ride was like from when she was younger, but wondered if Bill knew, as he looked a little unsure about the ride. The door closed and the lights went out leaving them in the dark, save a few color lights that ran along the circular handrail in the center. Slowly the wall that everyone stood against began to move, spinning like a top. As it picked up speed Bill found he was stuck to against the wall much like the first ride they were on, only this time he started to inches his way up toward the ceiling as his feet left the floor.

"Sookie?" His voice sounded uncertain of what to make of this.

"Bill, just relax." She offered.

To Bill he felt like he was looking up at everyone, as though he was stuck at the bottom of a large room, it was an odd sensation. Even with his vampire speed and strength, he found it too difficult to try to keep himself lifted from the wall without ending up right back where he started.

"Sookie, I'm not really sure I care for this." He said with unease.

Sookie struggled to bring herself up onto her side to face Bill so she could look at him, but with the gravitational pull, she quickly flipped onto her stomach, and found herself directly on top of Bill.

Her mouth was right next to his ear and he could feel her hot breath as she spoke.

"I've gotcha, don't think about the ride. Just concentrate on my voice…it will be over soon."

Suddenly, that was the last thing he wanted. Their bodies were molded to each other. Sookie's leg fit snuggly between Bill's, her thigh applied a slight pressure to his groin and his did the same to her. Bill could not help the thought that passed through his mind of how he could not be any closer to her physically without being completely inside of her, and that made him harden beneath her. He closed his eyes and felt the spinning sensation, the pressure all over his body that held the two to them in place coupled with her hot breath at his ear, and groaned aloud.

Sookie was hyperaware of Bill's reaction to their sudden position and the pressure between her own legs grew, spurring her own arousal. She could feel every shift of his muscles beneath her, her nipples began to harden where they were smashed against him, her lips found themselves closer still to his ear, and they brushed it softly as she spoke again having heard his groan.

"Are you doing okay?" She asked in a whisper.

Goosebumps found their way across his flesh. "Much better now. You?"

"I'm good." She responded in the low, silky tone he loved.

Just then, the ride began to slow and the two of them started to sink back toward the floor. He could now bring his arms up, so he encircled her waist so she did not fall and to steady her as their feet touched the ground. They stood like that, just looking at each other as the ride attendant instructed all riders to exit carefully. Soon they were the only ones left inside.

"I guess we should get going." Sookie finally said.

"Yes, I suppose so." Bill replied as he fought the urge to glamour the attendant to leave them inside and lock the door, but before he could act on the thought Sookie had taken his hand and led them out into the crowd where once again they were assaulted by the noise and light around them. In an attempt to get hold of himself Bill cleared his throat and asked, "What next?"

Sookie had her own thought as to what could be next, but thankfully her stomach decided for her with a growl right then.

"Well, I guess it's food if you don't mind."

"No! Of course not. Lead the way." He answered with a sweep of his arm and relief.

As much as he wanted to be inside of her at that moment, to have his lips brush every inch of her bare skin, to have her moan from the pleasure he gave her…he was grateful to be kept on track. He did not want to ruin the chance to see this 'dating' through until the end, no matter how hard it might be.

After a walk through all the food vendors, and finally a chilidog with fries, the previous tension felt by both Bill and Sookie had relaxed enough that they decided to try out some games. The first game they had come to was a basketball theme; you had to make five baskets in a row to win a prize. Sookie was not sure how Bill's 2 pointer was, but she knew hers was no good. She had always dreaded when she had been made to play in gym class. Really, any sport for that matter; Jason was the athlete, not her.

Bill shot all five baskets and made one after the other with ease. He did not even use his innate speed when he could have. Sookie thought about it and realized he had not used any of his skills from his 'otherness' since the night he healed her hand. It dawned on her that it was his attempt to make their courting seem more normal. She smiled with acknowledgement and appreciation for his effort. Aside from his diet and cool skin, they were every bit like any other couple out tonight on a date. Soon she was asked to choose a prize and she picked a floppy ear dog from the wall and thanked Bill as she gave it a hug.

They continued to walk, heading deeper into the gaming realm where "Step right up…try your luck and win a prize for the lady" had been shouted by every attendant they walked by. It had begun to irritate Sookie 'As if I'm not capable of winning one for myself!'

When they came upon a booth, apparently sponsored by a gun manufacturer, which required skill with shooting a gun Sookie paused. She looked over the pegboard wall to consider what prize she was going to take from the man as he began to address Bill to let him know how many shots he would get for his money and the number of targets that had to be hit for each prize. Sookie picked up the gun and checked its sights.

"Hey there little lady, careful with that. We don't need you doing anything to mess up that pretty face of yours." The man said as he approached Sookie ready to relieve her of the gun. Sookie shot him a look that stopped him mid-stride.

"Sookie, would you like me to win something for you?" Bill asked.

"Bill, if we are going to spend time together you need to know I am perfectly capable of doing things for myself, despite the opinion of some." The last of her words directed to the other man present. "And, I will be part of any planning or decisions made that pertain to me, not have them made for me like I am a child. Even if it is thought to be for my own good. It will do you well to remember that." She finished, her attention now focused on Bill.

The attendant just looked between her and Bill, confused as to what that was supposed to mean, but Bill understood every word and smiled.

"Duly noted, Miss Stackhouse." He turned his attention back to the other man. "Here is enough for the both of us to see how good of a shot we are." He looked back to Sookie. "Let us see what you got."

Sookie smiled at Bill then steadied herself and made quick work of all the targets in mere seconds. Both Bill and the attendant were left a bit shocked at her speed and accuracy. Sookie walked over to the man and handed him the gun.

"Never underestimate the skill of a woman." He looked down at the gun then back to Sookie. "Oh, no mam'."

"Your turn, Bill." She prompted. "What?...Jason made sure I knew how to shoot so I can protect myself."

Bill just shook his head and laughed. He knows she is strong willed and capable of extraordinary things when needed, but he must admit to himself that she is a lot more capable then he has given her credit for, and this was one way she tried to prove it.

Of course, Bill aced his attempt, as well, but that really was not the point. Every game they played from then on was a competition between the two of them. Maybe not a fair one if Bill's obvious advantage was taken into account, but they both had fun nonetheless and accumulated far too many stuffed animals. Soon they were handing them to passing children as they strolled through the fair grounds, all but the floppy ear dog. That one Sookie kept tight in one arm as she held onto Bill's hand with the other.

"We have one ride ticket left, is there anything else you would like to go on before they all close down?" Bill inquired.

"The 'Ferris Wheel', I always liked the view from up high. It was quiet and I could look down at everything from my own space." She answered.

"The 'Ferris Wheel' it is then."

Once seated in their bucket with the lap bar secured they began to ascend to the top as each bucket below emptied and re-filled with the next rider.

"So, what are your thoughts on the Fair, now? Still believe it to be a waste of time and money?'

"Well, waste of money…yes, but perhaps you really do need to spend both and just have fun every once in awhile…but it also has a lot to do with the company." She looked at Bill. "Thank you for bringing me. I'm not sure I would have enjoyed it as much if you were not with me. Having you close to me brings a certain peace I just can't explain. Crowds are usually a bit of a struggle, but tonight with you, I didn't even notice."

Bill looked into the big brown eyes staring at him with utter sincerity.

"I am delighted that my presence can give you escape from your chaos." He reached up to brush away a tendril of hair that had blown into her face and tucked it behind her ear, then let his fingers trail down her neck and the back of her shoulder blade before he let his hand fall away to rest on the back of the seat.

At the gentle caress, Sookie felt her body respond in two distinct ways; chills spread over her skin as warmth filled her core. Bill's eyes had moved to her mouth as he unconsciously began to lean into her.

"Bill…" Sookie whispered breathlessly.

"Yes?" He answered now mere inches from her mouth, his hands held in place by his grip on the back of the seat in one and the lab bar in the other.

Sookie did not answer with words, but instead closed her eyes; her heart beat rapidly from the anticipation of his mouth touching hers.

Just before they met, the ride came to a sudden stop as it began to let riders off again and forced Bill to lurch sideways away from Sookie, interrupting the moment. Both of them seemed to snap out of the trance they were in and began to look around to get their bearings just as they were lowered in to position for their own exit.

Silently they walked hand in hand, lost in thought over what would happen next. Should they or shouldn't they? Do they keep up the charade or say the hell with it and just take each other the way they both longed to do? Bill's resolve to see this whole thing through was becoming more difficult every moment he spent with Sookie, but he did vow to himself to not cross the line and take the opportunity seriously, that is unless she ended the game first. Inwardly he groaned at the decision he made.
Sookie was contemplating much the same as she tried to remind herself what the reason was for all this in the first place. It was to allow them to get to know each other with a fresh start, as if they were just beginning to date like any normal couple does, but they were not normal, nor were they ignorant of the pleasure that could be had together. Logically she had known the whole thing would be difficult, but it was proving much harder than she imagined. 'Okay, this is our second date and third time seeing each other. If this was any one else what would be acceptable behavior?' she asked herself. 'Oooo…kissing. I would let him kiss me with that mouth. It is so perfect that it caresses every syllable he utters. I was dying for him to kiss me back on the ride…'

'Sookie?...Sookie?"

"Hmm? Oh, sorry I didn't hear what you said."

"I was asking what you would like to do next. Are you ready to call it an evening or was there something else you would like to do?" 'Is this a trick question?' she thought. "The rides are set to shut down now, but we could find someplace else to go if you like, Merlotte's maybe." Bill decided to stick to his vow, but that did not mean he could not attempt to get her to break first with innuendo on his side. It may not be gentlemanly of him, but he is not all gentleman.

Sookie looked around and noticed the crowed that had been around them had begun to thin out and she could see the car headlights in the distance as people began to pull out of the field where they parked.

"I think maybe we should head out, too. I have the early shift tomorrow and don't want to be asleep on my feet." She said reluctantly.

"Of course, whatever you like."

During the whole ride home they both talked of everything from their favorite color to pet peeves', anything to try and keep their minds off what it was they truly wanted, but it was not working as well as they hoped. Sookie had noticed Bill's grip on the steering wheel was a little tighter than necessary. Bill had noticed how Sookie was fidgeting in her seat; tightening and relaxing her left leg that was crossed over her right. On the outside, they tried to appear calm and collected, but inside they were simmering with a growing need.

As the car eased up the drive to her house Sookie decided it would be best if Bill did not accompany her to the door tonight, as she would probably loose her self control, pull him into the house with her and not let him go until dawn's approach. Once the car came to a stop she glanced over at Bill, he was looking down at the steering wheel as if contemplating his next move also.

"Thank-you for the lovely time tonight, Bill. I had a lot of fun." Sookie quickly said, then leaned over to place a kiss on his cheek, but instead her lips found his when he turned to look at her.

She had meant it to be just a quick kiss and then jump out the door right away, but when their lips met all sense of time ceased. Her body began to tingle from the contact, her lips moved to brush over his slowly as she enjoyed the velvety feel beneath hers. She closed her eyes as her mouth parted slightly to draw in the breath that was stolen from her sending a cool rush of air across Bill's lips. The split second that it took was an eternity for him, he quickly sought out the feel of her mouth pressed to his again as he brought his hand up to cup the back of her head to keep her close as he began his exploration by capturing her upper lip between his, then the bottom. Sookie sighed as he moved up to her closed eyelids and placed a tender kiss to each one in turn, her cheek bones, back to her awaiting mouth. She had butterflies in her stomach, her breath had become uneven and the apex between her thighs now throbbed as heat flooded her entire body. She brought her hand up to rest on Bill's cheek and the touch sent her heat right into his soul, igniting him. He felt the brush of her fingers along his neck as she slid them up its nape and into his hair, then growled against her mouth as she took hold fist full to tug his head back slightly, breaking the contact with his lips only to trail hers along the underside of his jaw. She made her way to the sensitive spot just under his ear where his jaw and neck meet and he hissed as he leaned his head into her, fangs clicking into place.

At the sound, Sookie felt the wetness, which had been building, seep from her core and soak the panties she wore. She pulled back to look at the man in front of her 'Oh man, I want him so bad.' She could see her desire in his eyes and knew either she had to get out of the car now or there would be no turning back.

Bill sensed what she was thinking. Not wanting her to go anywhere, he attempted to engulf her in his arms and pull her to him, but his seat belt was still on and it locked him in place as he moved toward her. Sookie, still with her belt on as well, leaned back against the car door, visibly flushed and her breathing labored.

"I think I should go inside now." She said as she unbuckles her belt to get out of the car, while she called on every bit of self-control she had.

Bill dared not say a word; instead, he continued to sit prone, only held at bay by the belt across his chest. Silently he contemplated how fast he could unfasten it, have her in to his arms and in the back seat before she could open the door. Sookie knew by the expression on this face and his labored breathing, something he only did when excited, that she was not going anywhere.

"This is only our second date, Bill. I'm a proper girl and that means no further than first base tonight."

He drew in a deep breath and let it out as he settled back into his seat.

"You are right, I apologize. I forgot myself when you mouth accidentally found mine." He replied, voice thick from the ache he felt to feel them again, as he looked back to her mouth. Finally, his eyes returned to hers.

"May I see you again to make it a third date?"

"Yes. I would like that…very much."

"When can I look forwarded to it?"

"It will have to be Friday."

"Friday?" He frowned. "So long?"

"Yes, I'm afraid so. I told Arlene I would watch the kids at her house tomorrow night so she and Terry could have a night out. And then I have to work until closing the next three nights."

"It may be difficult, not getting to see you, but it will give me something to look forward to then. How about a proper dinner? I know a place in Monroe I think you would love."

"Sounds wonderful." She hesitated a moment. "You can always come to Merlotte's if you find you have nothing else to do, and are looking for an excuse to get out and have a TruBlood."

Bill smiled. "I may just do that, thank-you."

Sookie reached for her door handle, "Oh, please. Allow me." Bill said to interrupt her.

"Oh, that really isn't necessary." Sookie said, suddenly unsure again at being out of the car and a step closer to her house with one less obstacle between them.

"I insist." Bill answered as he opened his door and walked around to her side, then opened hers for her. He reached out his hand for her to take as she stood. Bill leaned into her and she braced herself for the little bit of control she was clinging onto to shatter, but he only placed a chaste kiss on her cheek and then pulled away.

"Good-night, Sookie. Until next time."

"Good-Night, Bill." She said then made herself turn and find her way up the steps. Bill stayed and watched until she was safely inside before he got back into his car and drove away, shaking his head the whole way down her lane and to his house.