The Real World

by ASlaveToWords

This wasn't an anime. This was the real world. And in reality, rich, beautiful boys didn't fall for average, ordinary foreigners. But if that was true, why did these boys seem so interested in them... and why did they look suspiciously like the Majestics?

10. Chapter 10

A/N: Holy crap this took FOREVERRR! If anyone is still reading this; I am SO sorry! lol. Anywho, before I forget; this chapter, once again, was written with the help of Divine Child. :) Yay for friends! lmao.

Also! Since there has been a severe and tragically pathetic lack of Fabien/Sarah this entire story; this chapter, save the beginning, is entirely based on those two! Yay! I know the ending bit is a big 'meh' but I swear, I tried REALLY hard! I just suck at that kind thing. :(

To DaQiao17, to whom this chapter is for/dedicated, I REALLY hope you like this! It took us days! lol. We tried really hard and tried to make it as long as possible and as great and awesome and spectacular as possible... sadly we failed. lol jk. It's not quite the WOW factor I was going for though, maybe we tried too hard, but I am crossing my fingers tight that you still like it all the same! Please lemme know what you think!

To everyone else; enjoy! :)

Disclaimer: I own nothing. How sad for me, no?

---

A huge smile adorned a certain Canadian's face as she dreamed peacefully, hugging her pillow tightly as if it were actually the gorgeous blonde she was dreaming about.

Unfortunately, she wouldn't get to enjoy the dream fully because a loud pounding at her door soon woke her up.

Shandi groaned.

"Again?" She muttered as she blinked herself back into consciousness. With a huge yawn, she gave the door an unhappy look. "It's open."

The door opened and Alicia entered the room, looking like she'd just been through hell.

"It better be good. You interrupted an awesome dream." She said, only half playfully.

"Argh!" Alicia flopped down on Shandi's bed with a dramatic sighed. "You wouldn't believe the morning I had! I'm still pissed you and the girls locked me in a room with Kade! It was so awkward! Gawd!"

Shandi raised eyebrow before mentally groaning.

Oh no, Alicia was in that mood again.

"What happened?" She asked sitting up now and leaning back against her headboard.

"Nothing!" Alicia exclaimed in exasperation, making Shandi raise an eyebrow. "That's the point! He doesn't like me, I swear!"

Resisting an eye roll, the Canadian held out her arms.

"C'mere." She said wearily. Alicia leaned over and wrapped her arms around the girl, placing her head on the ravenette's shoulder. Shandi proceeded to stroke her hair as she spoke again. "He does too, Li. It's obvious. You just gotta be patient with him, that's all."

"But if he likes me, wouldn't he have made a move already?" Alicia whined, sniffling a bit. "Am I not pretty enough?"

Shandi resisted a sigh of annoyance.

Really? Again?

It was the same old thing with this girl, over and over. God she'd grown so tired of it.

"Alicia." She said wearily. "I don't know why you're so determined to jump into this. None of us have jumped the gun with the boys, why are you in such a hurry? He obviously thinks you're pretty enough, you know we all do. But these things take time, we haven't known them very long after all. Seriously, chillax."

"But he kissed me before!" Alicia whined. "So why not kiss me last night! We were alone and if he liked me he would have made a move, did something! Right?"

This time Shandi did sigh.

"You were drunk." She said bluntly. "He wasn't gonna kiss you while you weren't even in the right state of mind. Seriously, did you expect him to jump your bones or something? I know he comes off as a real badass but I really don't think Kade's the type to take advantage of someone, none of them are. And as for that 'kiss' on the boat, it was playful and one of those 'moment' things. I doubt it counted for much, no offense."

Alicia pulled away from the girl and pouted.

"You don't know that! You act like you know them so well! You don't know them any more then I do, then the rest of us! He could he goin' and visitin' all these girls on the side! He could be bangin' one or all of those girls we saw on the side of the road yesterday! You can't say otherwise! For all we know, they could all be players, whores! Just look at Demetrio! He told you about one girl but who says he's not screwin' more, who says he didn't when he left you the other night! Their characters had to be based off of something."

Shandi's expression darkened.

"Alicia, don't go there." She warned darkly. "Seriously. Calm yourself down and think before you speak..."

Alicia let out a 'hmph' before getting up. "I'm going to go find Laurie and see what she thinks...obviously you're no help."

With that, the tomboy hopped off the bed and left the bedroom.

Shandi clenched her teeth.

"God damn it!" She cursed under her breath, throwing back the covers. A sickening feeling clenched in the pit of her stomach; she had a gut feeling that this was not going to end well; it was the calm before the storm.

"Damn you Alicia!" She cursed in her head as she got up. "If you do this again, right here, I swear I'll kill you with my bare hands... I gotta catch her before she finds Laur or Sarah! I can't let her ruin this for them!"

The ravenette pulled on a pair of grey sweat pants, and grabbed an elastic, tying up her hair as she hurried out the door.

Once outside, the Canadian almost collided with a handsome, familiar blonde, who smiled as he looked her over appreciatively.

"Hello, beautiful." Demetrio teased. "Where's the fire?"

He gestured to her boy beater from the night before and her bare feet.

"Sorry, love." Shandi muttered, moving past him. "All jokes aside, I kinda am in a hurry..."

She'd only taken a couple steps before she heard the sound of raised voices. Cursing under her breath, she took off running. After blinking for a moment, Demetrio lit off after her.

The Canadian slid into Lauren's room to see both her and Alicia facing off, angry looks on both their faces.

Damn, she was too late.

"Naive? Stupid? Excuse me for trying to have a life! I told you, the only reason Kade wouldn't do anything with you is because he's a decent guy. Not those mama's boy man sluts you used to bang back home!"

Lauren's eyes were flashing now, her fist curled at her side. Today was not the day to start out like this, not after the night she'd had. Alicia just had to march in there with another sob story about her and a boy. So what had Lauren said? She'd told it to her straight, which resulted in Alicia going from hopeless lovesick puppy to snarling bitch.

"Uhm... Anything I can do to help ladies?" Demetrio asked cautiously.

Alicia whirled on him.

"Do you MIND! Yea, you can get the hell out! We're kinda in the middle of something here!"

Demetrio's eyebrows shot up and he lifted his hands defensively, backing out of the room.

"OK! Sorry! I just wanted to help."

"ALICIA!" Both Shandi and Lauren yelled at the girl. Shandi turned to the blonde with an apologetic expression. "I am so sorry! Please excuse us, this is kinda something we need to work out between us, okay..?"

The blonde gave her a smile and a nod before turning a weary look on Alicia and leaving the room. As he left, a third brunette entered. Sarah yawned and reached up to sleepily rub one eye.

"What the hell are you all yelling about so damn early?" She asked tiredly, leaning against the door frame and yawning again.

Alicia sneered. "Oh you know, trying to convince these two idiots that those Euro boys are nothing but users. I mean, really? Shandi has no chance with a slut like Demetrio. Probably the biggest playboy this side of Rome! And Lauren, gah, still naive and gullible. She thinks she can get her 'happily ever after' with Adrien. Please, we all know what those French boys want and that's getting it from some naive little American girl. You agree with me, right? Those boys don't want us. They're probably just dragging us along into their games to fuck with us."

Shandi's eyes widened for a minute in stunned shock, before a livid expression took hold of her face.

"Ex-fucking-cuse me?" She yelled viciously. "You little bitch! I've had enough of your shit, Alicia! You wanna know what I really think? Here's what I really think-"

Sarah's hand on the girl's shoulder stopped her and the Canadian turned a furious look on the other American then.

"What the hell Sarah!" Shandi demanded. "Don't tell me you agree with her!"

Alicia smirked.

"Of course, she does! She's been my best friend forever!"

Sarah's expression darkened and her face turned up into a snarl.

"Oh no I don't!" She snapped furiously. "You've crossed the line this time Alicia! I'm sick and tired of your crap too! God, when will it end! Make no mistake, the only reason I stopped you was because I don't want Shandi going to jail for murder, and me for being an accomplice, cause right now, I'd probably be willing to help her hide the body!"

Alicia's expression was nothing short of appalled.

"This was your last chance to not fuck this up for us. All of us." Sarah continued. "Every time your love life doesn't go your way, you get bitchy then you start to tear all of us apart by making us choose sides! We're done with your little mind fuck games! Don't you dare tells us you know who and what they are! This is our vacation and we won't allow you to ruin this for us."

"This was your last chance to make things right." Lauren spoke up, eyes watery but angry. "You said you wouldn't start anything but you lied! You haven't changed one bit!"

"Neither have all of you!" Alicia snarled. "You're supposed to be my friends! You're supposed to stand up for me! Now you're choosing the sides of four random guys you don't even know over your best friend?"

"Are you kidding me?" Shandi yelled, feeling her anger sky-rocket. "Do you fucking hear yourself? You're bitching because Kade didn't fuck you while you were drunk! Really! When will you grow the hell up, Alicia? You're like a damn thirteen year old! It's time to act your age not your God damned shoe size! We're adults now, more then capable of making our own mistakes and decisions and we don't need your two cents worth, or your childish antics! We want to be your friend but for the love of God, enough with the theatrics! It gets old! You're too old to be pitied and sooked like a baby! Don't you ever get tired of it? Honestly, enough is enough!"

"Fuck, you're such a bitch!" Alicia screamed. "You never cared how I felt anyways! Don't chew me out just because I'm feeling bad about something! I know sometimes I complain but it's only because my life is hard! I'm not saying it's tragic, but it is hard! And excuse me if I need to vent a little sometimes! I'm not gonna pretend everything's all peachy keen when it most certainly is not!"

Shandi growled and made to lunge at the girl again but once more Sarah stopped her, grabbing her arm, but it took more effort from the bookworm this time. Perhaps what Alicia really needed was a good pummeling from the Canadian to knock some sense into her.

"Please, your life isn't hard! You're just too damn lazy to do a damn thing about it!" Lauren stepped in front of Shandi. "So what if your life sucks? Get over it, and do something that makes you happy! God woman, all we do is hear about how tragic it is. It's not. You just use it as an excuse for people to feel sorry for you. You also use it to get guys, weepy pathetic boys. Not men, boys. You fuck just about anybody."

"Like I fucked Derick?" Alicia answered in a dark tone.

Sarah gasped now and her hand flew up to her mouth, her eyes wide in shock. Even she didn't think Alicia-

Shandi's face was scarlet with a horrible rage the likes of which she'd never felt before and Lauren felt like she had been suddenly possessed - and indeed she looked like it.

"I am gonna fucking enjoy this!" The Canadian snarled. This time Sarah didn't stop the girls as they both hurled themselves at the brunette and drove her across the room, pinning her to the wall. Shandi's fist drew back and Lauren looked ready to kill the girl - not even she was certain of her intentions - and Alicia's eyes were wide with fear, knowing she'd finally bit off more than she could chew.

Fortunately, before anyone could find out what would have happened, a red blur shot into the room and two colossal arms grabbed the livid American and the Canadian around the waist and dragged them back off of Alicia.

"Woah!" Kade exclaimed, an arm each around each of the squirming and kicking girls.

"Damn it, Kade! Let us go!" Shandi screamed, trying to pry his arm off. "She deserves it!"

Kade gave a half amused, half bewildered laugh.

"What the hell did she do?" He asked, looking back and forth between the girls. "You guys are friends... I'm sure it wasn't anything that serious."

"She's a liar, Kade." Lauren panted, staring wide eyed and angry at Alicia. "She lies then she... I can't believe you would do that! I trusted you! You comforted me when I was broken and then you went and fucked him? What kind of sick freak are you?"

Kade was looking down at the girl like she'd just sprouted antennas.

"Ok, what?" He chuckled, looking completely bewildered now. "What are you- what the hell is going on!"

Sarah, finally having shaken herself out of her trance, walked up to the group with an angry frown.

"Go on, tell him what you're problem is, Alicia!" She snarled. "Tell him how this whole damn mess got started."

Kade looked up at Alicia with furrowed brows.

"What's goin on?" He laughed, though it was slightly nervous. A sickening feeling had made a knot in the pit of his stomach.

"Kade!" Shandi yelled, squirming madly. "Let us go!"

The redhead released the two girls, not taking his eyes off Alicia, and they both turned a glare on her as well.

"I..." Alicia was shaken, standing with her back to the wall. "I... all I wanted was you to have sex with me... last night and... you didn't... you just didn't. What am I? Not good enough for you? What do I have to do to get you to like me? Was all that flirting for nothing? Am I not pretty? What is it, Kade? Tell me, tell me that you wanted me or was I just some toy like the others you and your friends play with?"

Kade was utterly stunned. He stared at the girl for a long time before eventually chuckling nervously again, thinking she was joking.

"What?" He asked with a laugh. "Are you- Seriously? Are you joking?"

Seeing the look on her face and knowing she wasn't, the redhead shook his head, completely disbelieving.

"Man... Alicia... you were drunk. I didn't want to take advantage of you. I'm sorry if you felt that... I duno, you weren't good enough or something, but I was trying to be respectful. It's just the way I was raised, ya know? Sorry, to disappoint you, it's just never been in me to disrespect someone like that..."

He reached out a hand and took a step to her.

"Don't touch me!" Alicia exclaimed, making the Scot jump.

"Alicia-" He began but her glare stopped him.

"You're just like all the others! You're a stupid, cocky playboy, who-"

"That's enough!" Sarah all but screamed, looking angrier than anyone in the room had ever seen her. She got up in the other girl's face then. "Don't you dare! Don't even finish that sentence! Kade, all of them, are nothing like those sleezeballs you've associated with in the past! Don't you dare talk down to him, make him feel like shit because you, little Miss I-always-have-to-bitch-about-something, has an inferiority complex and just constantly has to-"

Sarah's words were cut off as Alicia up and slapped her across the face, making her head snap to the side.

Lauren gasped. "She shouldn't have done that."

Sarah turned her head slowly, glaring a hole through the other girl. It wasn't long before Sarah grabbed Alicia by the front, throwing the brunette out of the bedroom.

"You are so dead!" Eyes flashing angrily as Alicia tried to stand up to get away from her.

Suddenly three familiar faces came around the corner, all stopping abruptly at the two facing off in the hall.

"What the-?" Adrien asked. "Girls? What's going on?"

"I'm about to show this little bitch what it means to be a grown-up!" Sarah snarled. Alicia scrambled backwards, bumping into Demetrio and whirling around to face him. She glared at him when he simply blinked at her.

"This is all your fault!" She growled. "If you had just been able to keep it in your pants-!"

"Enough!" Sarah screamed. "UGH! What is wrong with you! You're seriously sick in the head! I've had it! You've had this coming for SO long and I cannot WAIT to give you what you deserve!"

This time it was Sarah who made to lunge at the other brunette. Fabien's eyes widened and he shot out quick as a lick, snagging the girl and pushing her away. Sarah screamed in furry.

"Let me go! She needs it!"

"Oh no!" Fabien said, whirling her around and pushing her down the hall. "Come on, walk it off! You'll regret this later! Sarah, please!"

Sarah turned to look over her shoulder and fix Alicia with a venomous glare.

"You'd better have a damn good apology ready after this one! Because it's gonna take one helluva lot of groveling to earn my forgiveness this time! I'm done, Alicia, ya hear me! DONE!"

That said, the German forced the girl down the hall and around the corner.

"You really blew it this time." Alicia looked to see Lauren standing over her. "We put up with a lot of your shit. You're done."

"We're not done until I say we are." Alicia got up, growling at her.

"Piss off, you stupid whore!" Lauren yelled at her.

Alicia screamed, grabbing Lauren."You don't yell at me, you stupid-"

Lauren shoved her fist up, knocking Alicia right in the nose. Alicia reacted by punching her back. The petite girl was hit so hard she was slammed into the other wall, knocking her down on her behind.

"OK, this is fucking ridiculous!" Shandi growled. Alicia tensed up, preparing for another hit, but the Canadian simply grabbed her by the arm and whirled her around so it was pinned to her back. She then grabbed the brunette's other arm, her finger nails digging into the American's skin hard enough to make her yelp.

"Walk!" The Canadian growled.

Alicia snarled and squirmed but Shandi's nails dug deeper. "I said walk God damn it! Or so help me God I'll pop you one so hard I'll send you flying right back into your mamas lap where you belong!"

Alicia's eyes flooded with tears as a furious expression crossed her face. But despite this, she did walk. The boys parted a way for them, watching in stunned silence with open mouths as the two continued down the hall.

Shandi lead Alicia to the room she was staying in and shoved her roughly over the threshold, making her land on her knees and turn an angry glare on the ravenette.

"You're-"

Shandi held up a hand to stop her.

"Yea, yea. I know. A bitch, a whore, a horrible person, someone who never cared about you, blah, blah blah. Save your breath, trust me, it's falling on deaf ears. By now, I have completely become immune to you Alicia but make no mistake, it will not take much for me to carry out that promise; and I call it that because I don't make threats - I make promises. Now how about you sit your sorry ass down here and think good and hard about what you've done this morning. In a few hours, if you're ready to grow up, we'll be waiting for your apology. And don't think for a second you'll get away without making one. And this time, how about at least attempting to make it believable."

That said the Canadian grabbed the doorknob and pulled it to with a slam.

There was silence when she got back. Lauren had helped herself up against the wall, holding a hand to her face.

"Well?" She asked, muffled from beneath her palm.

Shandi sighed in irritation.

"Now I guess we wait." She muttered irritably, crouching down on one knee and reaching to remove Lauren's hand from her face. "You OK? Lemme see..."

She cringed when she saw the blood streaming down the American's face.

"Damn..." She said, making a face, she then stood up and offered a hand to the brunette. "C'mon lets go get you cleaned up..."

Lauren groaned, grabbing Shandi's hand.

She looked down at the blood on her hand.

It hurt like a bitch but it was more than worth it.

Her eyes lifted to look up at Adrien.

Adrien's own eyes were still wide.

"I.. uhm-..." He murmured, completely at a loss for words. "I'm... Mondieu, I can't believe that just happened... Here, let me-... let me help..."

Shandi let the Frenchman take her friend's hand and lead her away to the bathroom. The Canadian watched her go, waiting for them to disappear before reaching up and running her hands down over her face with a huge sigh.

"Neither can I..." She muttered through her fingers, her voice muffled. It had all happened so fast and it was so surreal it had been like watching a movie or a memory through someone else's eyes. "What a royal fuck up..."

Demetrio finally moved from his spot. "Shandi?"

He turned, facing her. "What happened?"

Shandi sighed heavily and removed her hands from her face, suddenly looking very tired.

"Long story..." She muttered, slipping her arm through the blonde's then one through Kade's before leading them down the hallway. "Come on, lemme fill you guys in..."

Sarah was still livid as the blonde German led her far away from the scene of the crime, through the house and out into the gardens outside.

"Oooooo!" Sarah exclaimed, still tense and ridged. "I can't believe her! I can't believe she had the gall to- And right in front of you guys! I swear, I'm so mad I could- UGH!"

She'd never felt so angry in her life.

Fabien stopped in the middle of the gardens and let go of her arms. Sarah moved away from him, muttering. She kicked at the dirt and grass, going on and on about Alicia.

"I swear if you hadn't...Oh I wanted to punch her so badly! She deserves to have some sense knock into that empty head! I told her if she started any drama, that I was going to-GRR!"

Sarah pulled at her hair.

Fabien bit the side of his cheek, getting the sudden ridiculous urge to laugh. It wasn't that the situation was funny, or that Sarah looked particularly funny; it was just that out of all of them, he'd thought she was the most well-tempered and well-mannered out of the four, he never expected her to have such a temper. But he had to admit; he liked it. She was like a little ball of fire, like - dare he say it? - his ball of fire? The girl was full of surprises, and he couldn't wait to find out what else she was hiding, what other ways she had to prove him wrong.

"Sarah, I-... I'm sorry, I can't imagine how you must be feeling..."

Sarah sighed and turned back to the German, opening her mouth but stopping when she noticed the grin tugging at the corners of his lips. This appalled her.

"Are you-... are you laughing." She asked incredulously, unsure of how she felt about this.

Fabien bit his lip hard. He was trying hard, he really was, but he just couldn't help himself and eventually he chuckled, instantly lifting a hand to clap over his mouth though that only caused him to actually laugh.

"I'm so sorry!" He muffled behind his fingers. "I know it's not funny and I swear I don't mean to its just-..."

Sarah placed her hands on her hips and gave the blonde a glare, which only made him laugh harder. Now it was her turn to be appalled. She hadn't seen the German laugh that much since meeting him and now he was laughing at the most inappropriate time. She tried to stay angry at him but watching him trying desperately to contain himself was too much and eventually she broke out into a grin too, which soon spread into a laugh of her own.

"I didn't think you could laugh like this, mister." Sarah proceeded to use a finger to poke him in the side, smirking.

Fabien pulled his hand away from his face, managing to dull his laughter down to a huge grin.

"Neither did I." He replied in amusement. "I haven't laughed that much in a very long time. I apologise again; I know it was tragically inappropriate it's just... this whole thing was terribly unexpected... Certainly not how I would have hoped the morning would have started, that's for sure."

Sarah sighed again and looked away from him, absently looking out over the gardens.

"Tell me about it..." She muttered, remembering the night before. She'd woken up in such a good mood too...

"I wouldn't let this morning ruin your whole day. I believe we can make up for it, if you're willing." Fabien approached her, putting a hand on her shoulder.

Sarah turned and looked up at him, blinking.

"Well... yea, of course. I'd love nothing more than to put this whole disaster behind me... did you have something in mind?"

The blonde pulled his hand away as a mischievous expression crossed his face.

"Why, yes in fact, I did have a little something little something planned. Why don't you head back to your room and change? I think you might find something... interesting there." Sarah blinked as the blonde lifted her hand to press a sweet kiss to her fingers, eyes not leaving hers. "Come find me at the front of the house when you're finished."

That said the German turned and left her staring after him in bewilderment.

Sarah raised her eyebrow.

Interesting?

She was a bit worried as she went back towards the house and followed the hallway back to her room. What on earth could he have been talking about? Her mind wandered too far and she blushed, touching the door knob.

"I really need to stop thinking perverted thoughts. Lauren was right. Those romance novels I've been reading since middle school will get me in trouble..."

She opened the door to her room.

At first she didn't see anything and furrowed her brows in confusion, but when she took a good look around, she noticed a white box on the bed wrapped in a pretty purple bow. Boy the guy sure was observant!

Approaching the bed, Sarah reached out a shaky hand and slowly untied the ribbon, her stomach getting all fluttery in anticipation.

Pulling the lid off the box, Sarah blinked at the contents. She stared at them for a minute before pulling out a pretty black shirt with a high collar, purple plaid ruffles and matching purple plaid three quarter sleeves. There was also a pair of form-fitting purple jeans in there and the most gorgeous, expensive-looking purple heels she'd ever seen with bare toes. She was amazed to see that they were her size.

After a moment of gawking, she realized there was a note as well. She placed the items on the bed and picked the note up to read it.

Dearest Sarah,

I hope this is your style. If not, please feel free to wear whatever you want. Consider this a small token of my affection; there will be more to come.

Sincerely yours;

Fabien.

She stared at the note for a second and blinked before a noise came out of her mouth.

"Oh he didn't have to." Sarah cooed happily. She picked up one of the shoes again. "I couldn't just wear what I have... hate to have these awesome shoes go to waste."

Sarah grinned wide before proceeding to strip. In no time she was out of her casual old clothes and into her fancy new ones. Moving across the room, she stared at her reflection, picking up a piece of her hair and eyeing it thoughtfully.

"Now what?" She muttered. "What am I gonna go with this? I don't think I've got time to do anything fancy or get the girls to help..."

After staring for a minute or two, the brunette eventually decided on a teasing technique Shandi had shown her. She teased the top of her hair and pulled her bangs back to create a cute and stylish bump. She then grabbed the curling iron she'd gotten from her stylist friend last Christmas and put a few pretty curls throughout her hair. After applying some quick eye makeup to match her outfit and accentuate her features, she reached for the jewelry set Lauren had given her on her last birthday and put it all on.

The pretty amethyst tear drop gem looked great with the matching earrings and went quite well with her new outfit. The brunette smiled at her reflection, really feeling pretty for the first time in a while, before grabbing the matching bracelet and turning away.

"Perfect." She smiled, grabbing a small black bag. Her thoughts whirled over what exactly Fabien had planned. They certainly couldn't do anything that involved majority out of the outdoors. Her heels clicked against the floor as she wandered out of her room to go find Fabien.

"There were a lot of a pretty places to visit in the city. Museums. Movies. Dinner. I hope he doesn't go all the way out. I'm a simple girl. I like simple yet pretty things."

It didn't take long for Sarah to find Fabien out front like he'd suggested.

He didn't look up at her right away as he was leaning against a car with his head down, staring at a book in his hands. The brunette couldn't help but gawk; she didn't know what was sexier, him or the car.

Eventually, the blonde absently looked up, doing a double take when he noticed his date. Seeing the look on her face, he grinned wide, another strange sight for the American. However, she was slowly getting used to it.

"You like it?" Fabien asked rhetorically. "It was my father's, bought brand new at the time. I've restored it, of course. It's a 1960 Merceds Benz, 300 SL Roadster... classic car. It wasn't black originally, in fact-"

The blonde stopped and cleared his throat.

"Anyway, I'm sure you don't want to hear all about old cars." He smiled at her and held out a hand to her. "I see you decided to wear the outfit I gave you. It looks wonderful on you by the way. Shall we?"

"S-sure." She fiddled with a stray piece of hair. "Where exactly are we going?"

She walked forward. Fabien quickly moved over to her side to open the passenger door for her. She smiled as she slid into the car.

Fabien's smile was wide as he moved around his side of the car and got in.

"That, dear Sarah, is a surprise."

She blinked at him, suddenly giggling when he produced a surprisingly stylish salt and pepper hat to place on his head. His grin was almost childish when he turned to look at her.

"What? You don't like it?"

Sarah smiled and shook her head.

"I do. It looks good."

The German chuckled, sobering up a little before starting the engine and pulling out of the drive.

Sarah took the time while he was temporarily distracted to look him over.

He looked quite handsome wearing a pair of tan pants, black loafers, and a white shirt with a vest that matched his hat. He looked like something out of an old movie and it was a little comical but she had to admit that he looked very good. It was funny how great a contrast there was between her outfit and his but none of it really mattered in the end.

The moment the car started down the road, Sarah leaned her head back. It was a too perfect day. Not too warm. Not too cold. It was like the universe wanted her to have a good day despite that morning's drama. Nothing was going to ruin it. She gave a smile as they headed away from the Sanders place onto the dark pavement of the road towards town.

"So, what do you do?" The brunette asked her companion conversationally.

"Do?" The blonde questioned. "As in a job?"

Sarah nodded when the blonde glanced at her."

"Oh, it's not really a job per se. Nothing really interesting."

"Aw, c'mon. Tell me. Aren't we supposed to be getting to know one another?" She asked, leaning to the side so she could look at him better.

"Alright, touche." The blonde replied in amusement. "Have you ever heard of an information broker?"

"Information broker? No, I don't believe I have. What does an information broker do?" That was a new title she'd never heard before. She'd heard of a lot of research titles from her work at the library but nothing like that. Now she was curious.

"It's really not very exciting." He insisted. "Sometimes people hire me to do some research for them, to find out things that they or someone else can't otherwise find out on their own. Terribly boring."

Sarah blinked at him.

He made it sound so boring.

"Oh..." She said awkwardly. "Well... alright then. It's still nice to know, I guess."

Fabien chuckled again.

"What about you? What do you do?"

"I'm a librarian assistant at the university where I use to attend. I...I haven't quite made it to full librarian." She answered, turning her head. Her job wasn't that exciting either but she enjoyed it. She loved being around all that information and all those books.

"Really?" The blonde asked with interest, lifting an eyebrow. "You don't say... hm."

Sarah turned back to him with furrowed brows.

"What?" She asked, a little self-consciously.

"Nothing." Fabien replied, a small smile coming to his face.

So she was working towards a librarian then. Books, study, research.

The blonde felt something pluck at his heartstrings. It was a little unexpected to find that he had something like that in common with the girl and he had to admit; it pleased him greatly.

"It's not bad." Sarah cleared her throat. "I...enjoy being around books. Probably a lot more than most people."

"Funny thing about words." The blonde began softly. "No matter who they interact with, they're never prejudice, never judging, never changing. They don't care who reads them, who speaks them, or what they look or act like. They are what they are and in the best or worst of times, they're often able to offer you much more comfort then any one other human being is able to..."

Sarah's eyes widened at his words. Finally, someone who could understand how she felt being around what she loved. And someone who was remotely intelligent. It wasn't that she thought him to be an idiot. She just wasn't sure what the German had to offer, but she was liking it so far.

"True." Sarah smiled. "So besides your work, what else do you like to do? Like in your spare time?"

"Well.." The blonde began thoughtfully. "To be honest, my life isn't really terribly eventful. Besides work, I don't really do much other than spending time with Kade, Adrien and Demetrio..."

He looked thoughtful for a moment.

"That's not really fair is it? There must be something I can tell you... Hmm." He considered this for a moment before thinking of something. "Ah. Well, my father is an architect of sorts. I help him sometimes in his plans. There's something satisfying about designing something and watching it come to life before your eyes. Even more satisfying still when you help it along yourself."

Sarah looked the blonde up and down again, her eyes falling on the muscled biceps straining against the cloth of his rolled up, crisp white sleeves. Had they always been that... bulging? And more importantly, how had she not noticed before?

The brunette got a thought at that; an image of the German lifting heavy wooden beams and huge cement blocks, his muscles straining and bulging as he sweated, working under the sweltering heat of the harsh rays of the sun. Oh what powerhouse muscles could do…

They could easily pick a girl up and-

Sarah felt her face flush and she shook away her thoughts.

"Gah! I'm starting to sound like that stupid twit back at the house!" She thought in annoyance. "Seriously... no more smutty romance novels for a while!"

Fabien lifted an eyebrow at his companion.

"Penny for your thoughts?" He said. "They must be interesting. Whatever you're thinking about, they seem to have you a little... flustered."

"Oh it's nothing. I was just..." Sarah tried to think quickly, wanting to avoid an awkward moment. There wasn't a lot of excuses that she could think of to give him. "I was just thinking of...well it's not important. Just a passing thought."

She avoided his eyes, staring blindly at some cute cottages off the side of the road.

Fabien watched her for a moment out the corner of his eye before smirking in amusement and turning his attention back to the road.

There was silence for a while and Fabien left the brunette to her thoughts. Before long, they came into town and Sarah straightened as they passed shop after shop. Her excitement grew as the blonde slowed down close to the large library she'd passed earlier but she was disappointed when Fabien merely turned down a road alongside it and kept driving. She blinked at her surroundings, wondering where the German was going when the buildings seemed to thin again as they drove down a long, seemingly endless road.

There wasn't much to look at now besides fields upon fields and the occasional flock of sheep. Finally Sarah felt her patience growing thin and released a small sigh, ready to ask the blonde where they were going again, until finally Fabien began to slow down once more. The brunette looked forward and blinked at the huge, old fashioned looking building that seemed to have appeared out of nowhere.

"What is this place?" Sarah was about to open her door when Fabien beat her to it.

"You'll see." He smiled.

Sarah stepped onto the pavement, staring at the three story manor. She glanced around. Did they just make a time jump or was it really like this all year around? She couldn't complain too much. It was beautiful, faded and old like a pretty antique dress.

Fabien offered his arm to her. She took it as he led her up to the wide antique doors that framed the front. The moment they reached the top, a friendly man in a stylish jacket opened the door for them. He bowed to them as he leaded them inside.

Her eyes widened at the sight of every antique piece you could imagine from the early eighteen hundreds to Victorian days. Some were even from the times of knights and ladies and dragons.

"Oooh this place is beautiful!"

The large foyer was decked out with faded antique white walls and pretty paintings that gave the old house a welcoming and homey atmosphere.

Fabien led her into the building where people dressed to match the times moved around. She felt like a ghost who had indeed stepped back in time, watching the people go about their business as if she weren't even there.

"Wow, what is this place?" She asked a second time.

"One of the many historical museums featured around Europe. This one in particular is decorated to honor Scotland's history at that time. It's actually a growing business, featuring museums from Portugal all the way to Romania. I thought you might enjoy something like this." Fabien led her through the house as the walking historians went around the room. Some men tipped their hats now while women curtsied to them.

"And don't fret about making them break character if you have an important question." He added.

Sarah felt like a kid as she walked up to one woman in a beautiful Jane Austen like costume. She began to talk to the girl whose Scottish accent flowed beautiful along with her gown. The brunette was really enjoying herself as the beautiful girl lead her and Fabien around the museum, telling tales that actually happened, some being rather humorous.

Sarah laughed, playing along with some of the people, and she even got to touch some of the antiques.

She was having a blast!

Fabien chuckled and crossed his arms, leaning back as he watched Sarah be pulled into an old fashioned Scottish dance with one of the actors. She tripped over her feet for a minute, having been surprised but, eventually laughed and managed to keep up. A few other people were dancing as well, mostly with the actors, and Fabien clapped along with the soothing and cheerful music of the old instruments.

"C'mon laddie, don' jus stand there!" One of the elder ladies exclaimed with a grin, pulling the blonde into a dance.

Sarah laughed as she watched and after a few roundabouts, the actors thrust them together. Fabien laughed again and gave the brunette a smile as he swept her up into the dance, not missing a beat.

They twirled and twisted, moving against each other like they'd been partners forever. Sarah was grinning as Fabien twirled her around one last time before the music stopped. A round of applause erupted as Fabien gave Sarah a dip then a twirl. They bowed before the players.

"You're a good dancer." Sarah lifted her head, grinning at him.

"I've spent enough time with the Sanders to know all this stuff." The blonde laughed. "You're a quick learner. I'm impressed. Kade would be proud!"

"It wasn't that hard to figure out. That was so much fun!" Sarah laughed, feeling her spirits soar. "So now we've had our fun in the living museum, what's next?"

"Well, let's see where Benny takes us next." Fabien said with a smile, holding out his hand.

Sarah laughed.

"Please don't tell me you named your car." She said with a grin as he led her back outside.

"Alright I won't." The German replied, grinning back as he opened the door for her. Sarah laughed again as she got in and waited for the blonde to join her.

"It won't take nearly as long this time, I promise."

"I don't mind." The brunette said. "I like surprises... and I don't mind spending time with you."

Fabien gave her a tender expression as he started the car.

"Good." He said softly, his deep voice rumbling deliciously. "Because I plan to keep you for a while."

Sarah was sure he hadn't meant that the way it sounded and she didn't really feel like questioning him on it but that didn't stop the fluttery sensation, nor the hot wave that washed over her.

The car rumbled away from the museum back towards the city. She leaned casually against the window side of her seat, enjoying the sounds of the city while the breeze blew through her hair.

For a long moment there was silence as Fabien seemed to be thinking something, debating with himself. After a long while, he finally decided on something and spoke.

"I was wondering something…" He began slowly. "How is it you became friends with Alicia? I must admit; she doesn't seem quite…. As good a friend as you and the others."

"It's... a long story." Sarah quietly murmured.

"I think we've got time for one." He answered quietly.

"Okay." She sighed. "I met Alicia in high school; she was a sophomore, I was a junior. We bonded over the fact that she caught me reading a book from the same series that she loved. We hit it off right away. From her, I met Lauren. She was a senior. It was nice...I mean, she had her moments with drama about boys, home, schoolwork. You know, the usual when it comes to a typical American high schooler. Lauren and I thought she'd be okay once we left high school.

We met Shandi at college via the Internet. We all shared stories on a site called FictionMe where people could post original or fan stories and have others read and review them. It was good. Things turned bad once we all started to put the pieces together... pieces of events that Alicia had lied to us about. The one thing that kept us in the dark was that she never really told us all the full story..."

Sarah paused for a minute, suddenly feeling her throat clench painfully. It was a few moments before she continued and Fabien said nothing, letting her take her time.

"It was about a year or so back, when Lauren was engaged." She took another moment. "It all makes sense now. I didn't realize it back then but...she started acting out. We had no idea why. She dropped out of school, again. She had moved out from the home with her junkie father. Her mother just got married and was expecting a baby in the fall. And her boyfriend, one of many, broke up with her. I don't know what set her off. I think she just snapped... that's when all three us realized that she was..."

Sarah stopped. "I'm sorry. I...I was friends with her for a reason. I always dealt with her drama because I cared and I didn't want to stoop to her level. But now that everything got air out here...I...I don't know what to do about her."

Fabien's frown deepened and a worried expression crossed his face.

"Kade..." He almost whispered. He sighed then. "I fear for his sanity this time. He always falls for the wrong ones... and I've known him long enough to know that he had fallen for her. I don't know how he'll react this time but God I feel for him. He has the absolute worst luck I must admit..."

"I feel so bad for him. I thought..." Sarah sighed, closing her eyes. "I know us girls will be there for him. I feel like I should apologize for bringing her with us but...it was her own doing. We told her this vacation was the last thing we would do together if she decided to act up and be immature. But no, she's done. I'm done. I don't care if she apologizes, I'll forgive her but I won't...I won't have her as my friend anymore."

Her eyes watered up.

She hated to lose a friend but she was done with all the crazy drama.

She was just done.

Sarah turned towards the window again, trying to push back her tears. She refused to cry, least of all in front of this handsome German and especially not when things had been beginning to turn out so good. Damn Alicia! There she was ruining things for her again and she wasn't even there!

Suddenly Sarah started a little in surprise when she felt a hand wrap around hers. Turning back towards her companion, she was surprised to see a deep, guilty expression on his face.

"I am sorry..." He whispered softly, and indeed he both looked and sounded like it.

The blonde squeezed her hand tightly before lifting it to press his lips to her fingers.

"I never meant to upset you." His voice rumbled lowly. "Forgive me. Please, forget I said anything, I never should have brought it up, not when we were just starting to enjoy ourselves."

The blonde pressed her fingers to his lips again, then a third time, the last lingering quite longer than the others. He looked at her again out the corner of his eye.

"I'm sorry." He said again, looking back to the road. It was a few moments before he spoke again.

"It's painful to see tears in your eyes..." He whispered, barely audible, and Sarah wasn't so sure he even knew he'd said the words aloud.

"Especially knowing I am the one who caused them..." The blonde added in his head, a sickening churning bubbling in his stomach.

"I'll be okay. Today just made me realize what is important and what isn't. I'll be fine." She closed her eyes for a second before opening them again. "So where exactly are you taking me? Anything that was more fun than the museum?"

She didn't want Fabien to see her upset anymore. No, she was not going to let Alicia ruin this one for her. She was having fun and that's all that mattered.

Fabien released a long, silent sigh and forced himself to smile again. To Sarah's secret delight, he didn't release her hand but instead laced his thick fingers through hers and let them rest between the seats.

"You should have learned by now that I don't like to spoil surprises." He replied. "You'll just have to wait and see."

She laughed, smiling again. "Okay, I'm counting on it to be just as good as the museum."

A genuine smile crossed the German's face then.

"I'll see what I can do." He replied playfully.

Sarah eyeballed him as he pulled up to an alleyway. They pulled up to some building she had no idea the identity of and Fabien helped her out of the car once more. "Where are we going?"

"Just follow." He suggested, taking her hand again to lead her around to the front.

Her jaw dropped at the sight of bright lights and a grand marquee. She didn't think a place like this existed in Europe, must less any part of Scotland. It was an old 30s to 40s American-style movie theatre, complete with the bulbs and old letters.

"Wha...what is this place?"

"An old restored movie theatre. It was destroyed during the war. A certain prominent family bought it up and had it restored."

Sarah turned to him and lifted an eyebrow and the German laughed.

"No." He said simply. "Not mine."

He took her hand again and led her forwards. After buying some popcorn from an old fashioned looking vendor, he led her into the theater where a young man dressed for the part gave them a bow and held open a curtain for them. Inside the large room there were only a handful of other people. Fabien led her somewhere down the middle and they both sat down. Soon enough, music began to play and Sarah felt a leap of excitement when a black and white film began to play. She frowned in confusion when she saw soldiers and air planes on the screen.

"This is a war movie?" She whispered.

"No." Fabien replied. "This is an original commercial, one that played during the world wars. They would play shorts like this before movies. The film will start soon."

Sarah let out a small giggle. She felt like she was back during that time. A pretty girl on a date with her dear soldier. After the short ad about buying war bonds, the movie started. Her hand went to her mouth as one of her favorite black and white films popped up on the screen.

"Oh, Fabien! This one is my favorite!"

Fabien smiled as he sat back, his arm going around the back of his date's chair.

"Enjoy." He whispered in her ear.

Her eyes lit up as the title for Casablanca came up on screen. She fawned over Humphrey Bogart in his role as the man who had to choose between love and honor.

Sarah felt herself relaxing as she leaned back in her seat. She had a moment, forgetting Fabien was next to her as she leaned her head on his shoulder.

Fabien blinked down at his date in surprise, momentarily speechless, until finally he smiled and moved his arm so it rested around her shoulders, his thumb absently stroking her shoulder as he too turned to smile at the screen.

Sarah sighed, enjoying the film.

Oh yes, this defiantly made up for what occurred earlier.

Her head shifted and she furrowed her brows, suddenly wondering what she was leaning her head on. Her face turned red as she realized she was resting on Fabien's shoulder.

Fabien looked back down at the movement and frowned.

"What's wrong?"

"N-Nothing. I didn't realize I was resting on you. I'm not making you uncomfortable, am I?"

Fabien blinked at her in bewilderment for a minute before chuckling.

"Of course not... you're really not used to this sort of thing are you?"

"No, I...this is a first for me."

Fabien felt that silly, warm wave of affection wash over him again and he gave his companion's shoulders a gentle squeeze.

"Well, let's see if we can't change that." He said softly, giving her a tender smile. "You don't need to ever feel nervous around me. And please let me know if something I say or do makes you uneasy. I want as much of this day to be as much a good memory as possible.

Sarah opened her mouth to reply but someone from a few rows down shushed them harshly.

"Okay." She whispered, placing her head back on his shoulder. Sarah enjoyed how it fitted. The smell of his cologne tingled her nose, making her believe that Fabien could look just as dashing as Mr. Bogart up on screen.

The moment the ending was near, Sarah had sat up.

She looked over at him. "Do you have a tissue or something? I always cry at the ending."

Fabien resisted an amused smile and reached inside his vest to pull out a black and white checkered handkerchief.

"Here." He said, the amused smile making its way onto his lips despite his best efforts.

Sarah took it from him. "Thank you."

The moment Bogart uttered the famous line, Sarah felt the tears. She brought the handkerchief up to her eyes, trying not to let them mess up her makeup.

She offered it back to the blonde but he held up a hand.

"You keep it." He said with a smile. "Perhaps a time will come when you'll need it again."

Sarah couldn't help but smile. The whole thing was terribly cliché but despite that fact, she took the cloth nonetheless and tucked it into her pocket.

"Thank you." She said with a smile. Fabien nodded at her and got to his feet, holding a hand down to her.

"On to the next one, shall we?"

"Yes." She took his hand, getting to her feet.

A live museum, a movie theater that played old movies, she couldn't wait to see what else Fabien had up his sleeve!

After another short drive, Fabien took his date to an outdoors place. It didn't take long for the brunette to realize where they were.

"You're kidding, right?" She said bluntly, not sure whether to be amused or weary. The German had taken her to an outdoor golf course.

Fabien chuckled as he got out and moved around to open her door for her again.

"You have never truly golfed until you have golfed in Scotland." The blonde said, taking her hand again and leading her towards the large building off to the side.

"Hello Mr. Hertz, what can I do for you this evenin-" The man stopped when he spotted Sarah next to the German.

"Just an hour or so, Hamish. I just want to have the lovely lady try her hand at golfing."

"Well, well, Sir." Hamish bowed before leaving to get them some clubs and balls.

"Clearly this is not your first time here." Sarah said, lifting an eyebrow with an amused smile.

"Hardly." The blonde replied with a chuckle. "Kade's quite the golfer. Kicks my ass near every time. But I'll be damned if I'd ever admit that to his face."

Sarah felt a leap of hope at that. She'd only been golfing a few times but perhaps if Kade was constantly beating the blonde, maybe that meant he wasn't that good. Maybe she wouldn't make a fool of herself after all?

Before long, Hamish returned with a golf cart marked with the Sanders' family crest. Sarah turned to her date with a questioning look.

"Are you sure he won't mind?" She asked, only half joking.

"Oh, I'm sure he'd agree it's for a good cause." Fabien replied teasingly.

"Will you be needing a caddy, Sir?" Hamish asked politely.

"Not this time, Hamish, thank you. That will be all."

The man bowed once and Sarah didn't miss the cheeky smile on his face as he straightened and turned to leave.

"Well. Let's be on our way then."

The blonde got behind the wheel of the cart and patted the seat beside him. When Sarah was settled in he turned and produced a purple object from behind his seat. When he handed it to her she laughed to see it was a purple sun visor. Accepting it with a thanks, she put it on before Fabien started the rig and moved on.

"I have to tell ya; the last time I went golfing was mini golf." Sarah looked over the lush green lawns. "You might have to help me in case I mess up."

"I think that can be arranged." The blonde agreed, pulling the cart up onto the large, spacious green. When he got off he took two golf bags from the back of the cart and Sarah smiled and shook her head at the purple clubs protruding from one of them.

"You a really are quite good with your information." She said playfully, gesturing towards the clubs. Fabien looked them over and chuckled.

"Are you sick of the color yet?" He asked.

"Not yet." Sarah laughed. "I just hope there isn't too much more."

Fabien grinned and set the bags down. Looking over the clubs for a moment, he eventually selected one of the purple ones and handed that and a purple golf ball to his companion.

He then chose one for himself.

Sarah laughed, taking it from him. She looked over the lawn before setting down a tee. She placed the purple ball down on it and looked down at it before glancing at her club.

Taking a deep breath, she positioned herself next to the ball. Carefully, she let the club hover next to the ball, staring down. The worst that could happen was that she missed it entirely... or take out Fabien with the club.

"Oh God..." She thought in her head. "Don't let me embarrass myself too much..."

Taking a deep breath, Sarah lifted the club high, hesitating a moment, and swung hard. She cupped her hand over her eyes to shield her view like she saw in the movies, trying to see her ball. When she heard a chuckling beside her she looked at Fabien questioningly, who gestured down at the ground. The brunette felt her face flush hotly to see her purple ball still sitting on the tee.

"Good try." Fabien replied honestly. "Here, let me show you."

Sarah watched as he set up his ball and tee.

"Hold it here, like this. Stand like this. Don't hold your arms so straight. Then you just draw back and..."

The brunette watched in awe as he swung and executed a perfect hit. This time she saw his bright white ball soaring through the air, only to land a good ways down the green, rolling to a stop ridiculously close to the hole.

"You said you weren't that good." She raised an eyebrow at the German.

"I didn't say that." He corrected. "I simply said that Kade nearly always kicks my ass, and he does. He's much better than I am."

"I see." Sarah said wearily. She then looked down at her ball and sighed before swinging again. This time she hit it but it merely rolled down the green a mere pathetic few feet and stopped.

Again Fabien chuckled.

"That was a good try." He insisted. "Let me show you again."

The blonde approached the purple ball and motioned for Sarah to follow.

"Stand here." He instructed.

Sarah did as he said and she felt her face flush hotly as he moved to stand behind her, wrapping his arms around her and gripping her club.

"Hold your hands here." He instructed over her shoulder. "Loosen your arms. Don't stand so tense. And don't concentrate so hard."

He brought his arms back with her for a few practice swings, showing her how to do it.

Sarah tried very hard to concentrate, she really did. But all she could think about was his large, muscular arms around her, the way she seemed to fit perfectly in them, the way they moved and rippled against her own, the feel of his surprisingly hard chest as he pressed it to her back.

And that scent.

The smell of his cologne was nothing short of intoxicating.

"- understand? Then you- Sarah? Are you listening?"

"Yes!" She shook her head. "Sorry, I was...concentrating too hard on what you were saying. I think I got it."

Her face warmed.

It was a good thing he wasn't a mind reader.

"Alright." Fabien said simply. "You think you can do it? I can help you the first time."

"I'd actually rather try for myself, thanks." She said with a kind smile.

"Of course." The blonde smiled back, releasing her. The brunette felt a twinge of disappointment and loss but she quickly pushed it from her mind and forced herself to focus.

"OK, here goes..." She thought, taking a deep breath.

She swung high, trying to duplicate what Fabien had shown her. This time she hit the ball and was excited to watch it soar high, hitting the green and rolling to a stop just several feet before Fabien's.

Fabien watched and made an impressed face.

"Not bad." He said simply, turning a proud expression on her. "I'll make you a golfer yet! Come, let's go finish this one."

Sarah smiled proudly as she followed the German back to the cart. Now having gotten such a strong dose of his cologne, it was hard to get it out of her mind as it wafted behind him, and of course the smell of it lead to other thoughts. But when they finally reached the cart and got in, the brunette forced herself to once again concentrate as Fabien drove them down the green to the hole.

"I doubt you'll make me as good as you are but I am happy to not be totally bad at this." She brushed back some hair that fell into her face. They got out of the cart as Sarah stared down at her ball. She gave a look of sheer determination.

"You better land in the hole or else I'm kicking you into the pond."

"Just tap gently." Fabien suggested softly.

Sarah took a deep breath before doing as he said. She held her breath as she watched it roll towards the hole, staring hopefully as it rolled right towards the hole - and then past it.

"Damn, stupid, stupid thing!" She grumbled in her head.

"Good." Fabien praised. Sarah felt a wave of affection for him wash over her. Even though she obviously wasn't doing all that good, he still acted like she was. He was a good teacher and clearly not a sore winner. She liked that.

Fabien moved to his own ball, easily tapping it into the hole. Acting like it was nothing, he turned to her and gestured to her ball.

"Come." He said simply. "This time you'll do it."

Sarah walked back up to her ball. She gently held her club, giving the ball a small tap. It rolled slowly over to the hole, and she held her breath again as she thought it had stopped just on the edge, but eventually it dropped down inside. She gave a happy yell, jumping up and twirling.

"YES!" She pumped her fist.

Fabien laughed and applauded playfully.

"Ah. Looks like I have some competition, after all." He teased.

"Yea. Right." Sarah replied with a grin. "Thank you, though, for the help."

"No problem." He said. "I just gave you a little nudge, the rest was all you."

"You did more than that." Sarah thought, but she wisely kept this to herself.

"Well, on to the next one! This time it's serious!" Fabien said, a look of mock seriousness on his face that made Sarah laugh.

"Uh huh, sure." Sarah walked by him, smirking. She casually tapped her club against his butt, chuckling as she tossed her ball up and down in her hand.

Fabien whirled on her with a look of mock shock on his face this time.

"Did you, miss, just grab my bottom?" He insisted with such a ridiculous expression. The sound of those words from his deep, accented voice made the brunette crack.

"No." She laughed. "I did this."

She poked his butt with the end of her club.

Sarah stuck her tongue out to him then smirked. "So what are you going to do about it, rich boy?"

Fabien straightened, resting his club on the ground and leaning against it.

"Miss, please. I know I am a fine, devilishly handsome individual, but you must contain yourself. These are priceless goods. I should reprimand you for this."

"And just how are you going to reprimand me for it?" Sarah put her club down, raising one eyebrow, unsure if he was joking or not.

"I'm not sure." Fabien rumbled, looking thoughtful. Perhaps I should hand you over to the local authorities for harassment of poor defenseless gentlemen such as myself. Or perhaps I could call your mother."

He looked at her then and a mischievous glint sparkled in his eye.

"Or perhaps I should just deal with you myself."

Sarah blinked at him for a minute, as she stared at the blonde unsure of how to take that, until finally a grin split his face and he lunged towards her.

Blinking a moment Sarah laughed and jumped away from him. She turned and ran, glancing over her shoulder to see that, as expected, the blonde was chasing her. Laughing again, she picked up her speed, running towards another stretch of greenery.

"I've heard of men chasing after girls," Sarah called back to him playfully. "but this is a bit much!"

She heard him laugh as she continued to fun.

"You can't run forever!" He called back.

Soon she reached another area, which happened to be a sand trap. It was much harder to run through the sand and the blonde had little trouble catching up to her. To evade him, she darted to the side onto another green area and had just looked back to see how close the blonde was when suddenly she was drenched.

Letting out a shriek, Sarah looked up, wondering where the sudden rain had come from. Seeing nothing but clear blue skies, she looked around in confusion, soon spotting the sprinklers. Backing away from them, she felt herself slip on the wet grass and her arms flailed, trying to find something to hold on to. Just before she fell backwards into the pond behind her, a familiar pair of strong arms wrapped around her waist and Sarah looked up, staring into a certain blonde's face as he grinned down at her.

"Gotcha." He said playfully.

The water from the sprinklers made it look like they were standing in the rain. Sarah tried to steady herself against the wet grass, "You caught me... by default."

Fabien's hand on her lower back applied a little pressure, encouraging her close to him as he walked them backwards away from the pond.

"Lucky me." He replied softly.

Sarah's hands reached up to grip his biceps to steady herself and again she was flooded with a wave of warmth.

Fabien smiled down at her, a soft, warm smile, and reached up to sweep her now wet hair away from her face.

"Of all the paces to run." He teased, his voice low. A shiver ran down Sarah's spine as she stared up at him. The combination of his wet blonde locks dripping down into his face, despite his hat, mixed with that voice, that scent, and those damn gorgeous eyes, it was too much.

"Better than the sand pit." She licked at her dry lips subconsciously "I'd rather be wet then to tumble down the hill with a twisted ankle..."

Her heart thundered in her chest and she cursed silently, praying that he didn't hear it.

"True... so would I." Fabien replied, staring at her intensely now. It made her squirm but not uncomfortably. How was she supposed to resist a look like that?

"Fabien-"

She was cut off by a finger to her lips.

"Shhh..." The blonde hushed. "Just enjoy this cheesy movie moment."

That did it. Instantly Sarah burst into laughter

"What? Really? Well you so ruined that!"

Fabien grinned, a wave of relief washing over him.

Almost ruined it was putting it mildly! He'd almost ruined everything! All his careful planning, with just one moment. He still had a ways to go before he could give in to his wants and needs and he had to make sure he wasn't temped like that again.

"Come." He said for a second time that day, pulling away from her and gesturing behind him. "I hadn't intended it to end this quickly but it will be hard to play wet. Let's go back and get changed. I've got a little more planned for this evening.

"OK...but it was fun." Sarah let out a sigh, posing it as happy. She was mildly disappointed that nothing happened yet she was nervous. Nervous that she about had her first kiss on a golf course. That wasn't romantic at all! But she did have fun and she wasn't too terrible a golfer.

They got back into the cart and headed back to the building where Hamish would be waiting.
_

As expected, Hamish was in fact waiting for them back at the building. He was smiling but it slipped a little and he gave the pair an odd look upon their arrival.

"Run in with the sprinklers." Fabien informed him as he climbed out of the cart and held a hand out to Sarah.

"Ah... that is unfortunate." The man replied, not quite sure what to say. "Is there anything I can do for you, sir?"

"It's alright." The blonde replied politely. "That's all for today. Thank you Hamish."

"Of course, sir."

That said, Fabien took his date's hand and led her back to the car.

"This day has been just perfect." Sarah spoke the moment they were away from the golf resort. "Thank you so much for taking me out...I know the day isn't over but...I wanted to tell you that."

Her hands were kept busy, trying to make a deal with the mess of wet hair around her face.

Fabien couldn't keep the huge grin from his face as he started the car and backed out of the lot.

"Don't thank me just yet." He replied. "You're right, the day is not over yet."

Sarah blinked at the blonde but said nothing else until they were well on their way again. The two once more made small talk as they made their way back to the Sanders' place.
_

After what felt like mere moments, Sarah found them in a familiar place and it was no time before Fabien came to a stop just outside the garage. When he stopped the car, he turned towards Sarah and gave her a warm smile.

"This is where I bid you adieu for a while, for I have... some preparations to make." He informed her. "There's one more surprise in your room. Once you've gotten ready, meet me in the back yard at around six thirty."

Sarah looked at her watch, which informed her the time was now three o'clock.

"But what-... where are you going?"

Fabien merely gave her a wink before getting out of the car and moving around it to help her out. She let him, eyes not leaving his and when he shut the door behind her he lifted her hand for a kiss.

"Until then." He said simply. And with that, Sarah watched him turn and leave without another word.

"Well, boy sure knows how to make a girl wait." Sarah chuckled. She head back towards the door to the house, going inside. Maybe she could find the girls to help her get ready on time. It'd be good for all three of them to do something together. Even if it was just her going on a 'date'. Sarah giggled, happily humming a tune as she entered into the house.

She searched all around the manor but she couldn't find her friends anywhere. She wasn't really inclined to see Alicia just yet so she avoided that room like the plague. But strangely, neither Lauren nor Shandi could be found either. Spotting a maid disappear around the corner, she cupped a hand over her mouth to call after her.

"Excuse me!"

The maid backtracked and popped her head back around the corner.

"Aye?" She questioned, her thick Scottish brogue very prominent. She was an elderly lady with a mixture of bright red hair with streaks of white.

"Um, I was just wondering if you've seen my friends?"

"Well, I don't right know where that short haired brunette's gone off to, but the one with the black hair went out with Master Demetrio and the other 'un went somewhere with Master Adrien."

"Oh..." Sarah said, slightly crestfallen.

"But ya needen't be worried about them." The maid said. "I understand you've got a big night ahead of yeh. The girls are waitin' for yeh in yer quarters teh get yeh ready. Now go on! Shoo, off ya go! Best not ta keep a strappin' young fella waitin!"

"Uh, but- okay." Sarah moved her butt quickly as the older maid chased her towards her room.

"Crazy maid..." Sarah thought to herself the moment she stepped inside the bedroom.

"There yeh are! Come in sit, sit! We haven't got much time! Dear God above, yeh looks like a drowned rodent! Hurry on now!"

Sarah was taken aback as an enthusiastic and rather loud young maid grabbed her arm soon as she entered the room and dragged her over to the vanity, plopping her hastily down in the chair.

"Now then! Hair up er down, curls er not, flowers er no?" She clapped her hands in a 'chop chop' manner. "Quick, quick, we haven't got all night ya know!"

"Hair down, curls would be nice. And yea, a flower would probably look pretty."

The girl smiled back and turned to the side, snapping her fingers at two even younger looking girls alongside her.

"Come on now!" She said impatiently. "Hop to it, yeh heard the lass!"

The spunky redhead turned a huge grin on Sarah as the other two immediately started in on her wet hair.

"Gonna be pretty as a picture yeh are! Just you wait an' see!"

Sarah said nothing as the girls got to work.

"Oh, by the way." The maid said, as if an after thought. "Name is Shannon O'Riley, but most jus' calls me by the last; Riley tha' is."

She turned around, moved to the bed, snatched up a smallish box and in a blink was back behind Sarah again.

"Right then, if it'll be pleasin' the young miss, Master Fabien has a little somethin' for yeh. Rather pretty little bit o' eye candy if yeh ask me."

Riley opened the lid of the box and inside sat the most gorgeous set of amethyst tear-drop and diamond earrings Sarah had ever seen. There was also a matching necklace on a silver chain and a dainty bracelet as well. They sparkled like glitter no matter which way the light hit them, so much so they almost seemed to glow.

"They're...they're beautiful..." Sarah stared at the jewelry in awe.

The earrings were placed in her hands. Sarah began to put them on as Riley helped her put on the bracelet. The necklace was last. Sarah stared at it, completely taken by surprise at the gorgeous gift that Fabien had gotten for her. It had to be expensive, it just had to be. It was probably the most expensive thing anyone had ever given her.

"I don't think I'll ever take them off." Sarah found herself saying out loud, touching the tear drop that laid against her bosom.

Already it was the most amazing date she'd ever been on. It was a date with a very interesting, handsome, and rich guy.

A guy who apparently went out of his way to buy her something as beautiful as what she was wearing.

Her heart felt like it was full of mush; the kind of mush that she had seen her grandmother express when her grandfather had given her a pretty pearl necklace for their anniversary. It wasn't how much the gift cost, it was the act that counted. Was this act of buying her jewelry meant to dazzle her or to make her gooey at the knees?

Either way, the blonde had succeeded in doing both. Admittedly, she was a little breathless and felt a little light-headed. Everything was happening so quickly, it was surreal. Suddenly the butterflies in her stomach multiplied and she felt sick. But it wasn't an entirely unwelcome feeling.

"You've already blown my mind, Fabien..." She thought as she watched the girls work. "I don't know if I'll be able to handle too many more of your surprises..."

Fabien looked at his watch for what had to be the fiftieth time in the past half an hour. His date wasn't really late but he was already terribly impatient, which was quite unlike him. Pacing back and forth in the back yard, the blonde released another heavy sigh.

"Get a hold of yourself man!" He scolded himself. "Acting like a lovesick school boy!"

But despite his inner lectures, the German's nerves only piqued that much more when he thought of Sarah and his gifts.

Suppose she didn't like them? Suppose she was offended by his spoiling? Suppose she thought he was trying to buy her affections?

The blonde lifted a hand to bite on a knuckle as his stomach flopped sickeningly, threatening to betray him.

"It was too much..." He muttered under his breath. "I should have went simple... Too much..."

Again Fabien looked at his watch and sighed heavily.

Quarter to.

OK, now she was late.

Just when he thought he was going to lose his mind, Fabien heard a quiet noise and turned, belatedly realizing it was someone clearing their throat. He was ready to tell the person where to go, that he was busy and already waiting for someone, when his eyes fell on the most perfect vision of loveliness the likes of which his dreams were never quite able to conjure.

His jaw hanging slack now, deep brown eyes looked his date over.

Looking perfectly nervous and blushing prettily as she looked up at him under her lashes, trying not to fidget, was Sarah. Sweet, intelligent, beautiful Sarah.

"It's perfect..." The blonde thought, his heart at a standstill.

The dress the maids had helped him pick out was stunning on her. It was white, floor-length and flared at the knees with purple floral design around the sweet-heart shaped top and going down the left side and bottom. Her hair was curled just a little and pushed back on one side, pinned with a large purple flower. Her makeup was tasteful and just enough to enhance her already attractive features.

Yes, he certainly was one damn lucky man!

"Hi, I...I'm a bit late. I took my time getting downstairs. I hope I haven't kept you waiting too long." She folded her hands, staring at him. She had been since she got to the backyard. She had taken her time because bouts of nervousness had crept up on her at the last minute, causing her to a have a panicky moment. Her eyes looked him over. What on earth did she do to deserve such a handsome gentleman to ogling over her like that?

Speaking of, Sarah's eyes rolled over her date and as she took him in, she felt her face heat a little further.

Fabien was looking drop-dead-gorgeous in a tasteful black tuxedo, a stylish pair of silver cufflinks at his sleeves, a purple flower in his lapel and his hair slicked back on his head in a way that probably would have looked absolutely ridiculous on anyone else but was utterly drool-worthy on him.

After a while of watching each other, Fabien finally lifted a fist to his mouth and cleared his throat. He then approached his date, stopped before her, and placed a hand across his chest before giving her a low bow. When he straightened again there was a small smile on his face as he held out an arm to her.

"My lady." He said politely, surprisingly not cheesy or corny as the brunette had expected.

Sarah gave him a small curtsy. He offered her his arm and she took it. Her eyes widening the moment she spotted the pretty lights and candles that decorated the backyard and along the path. Sarah finally lifted her eyes away from the self-made path to where bright lights and music were playing. Fabien escorted her up a set-up of steps on the doc, which was also lined with pretty lights and decor. Two chairs and a table clothed in white were set up with pretty crystal china, and silverware. A little way off to the side, a gazebo held a small classical band that was playing tasteful, romantic pieces. Fabien offered her a chair.

"This is...absolutely..." Sarah sat down in her chair. "Beautiful."

Wonderful was more like it. Her mind had trouble processing everything and just how to express how much she was feeling just then. This was more than she ever expected him – or anyone, to do for her.

"I'm glad you like it." Fabien said softly, his face very close to hers as he helped her push in her chair. The low rumble sent a shiver down her spine. Oh how she loved the sound of his voice!

"I do..." She almost whispered, gaze following the blonde as he moved around the table to sit across from her.

They were met with a staff that came in silently, revealing dishes on the table. The mouth watering smells had Sarah humming in happiness at the delicious dishes that were prepared for them. Everything looked like positively yummy works of art.

"So what are we having tonight?" She asked, wanting so much to pick up her fork and dig in. The entire setting kept her from getting too excited. She felt like she was dining with royalty.

"I had the chefs whip up some special dishes." He cleared his throat a little awkwardly before continuing. "I… seem to recalled reading on your Facebook page that you loved Italian food."

Sarah couldn't resist a small laugh at that.

"I do, and it looks like you picked out a few of my favorite dishes." The wine was poured for her by a server and she lifted her glass to him. "To a good dinner?"

Fabien smiled as his large hand elegantly wrapped around the stem of his glass.

"To a wonderful night." He said softly. Sarah smiled as she clinked glasses with him, hiding it's growth behind the glass when she lifted it to her lips for a sip.

"You'll have to tell me how everything tastes…." He spoke but drifted off the moment she stuck her fork in her mouth for a bite.

The fork lingered in her mouth as she quietly tasted. If there was one thing she knew, it was good food.

"Mmm... very good... almost better than what we had in Rome in fact." Sarah took another bite. "Oooh this is so good. I can't believe it. You've definitely gained major brownie points, Fabien! Delicious."

Fabien chuckled as he took to his food as well.

"It might interest you to know that the head chef tonight is quite a popular Italian chef from Milan. So I should hope it's good!" He took the time to sample his own food, apparently not nearly as hung up on it as Sarah, chewed and swallowed before continuing. "In any case, I'm very glad you like it. I'll give both our compliments to the chef."

She smiled at that.

"So..." As the dinner progressed. "What made you decide on doing this?"

She waved a hand, gesturing to everything from the lights to the music.

Fabien took the time to chew slowly, looking around absently before swallowing and placing his knife and fork down.

"Well..." He began slowly. "I suppose it was because I wanted everything to be... perfect."

He looked back to her, and Sarah felt her heart flutter. He seemed so calm, so cool, so collected.

So confident.

The complete opposite of how she felt just then.

Little did she know, there was a storm going on behind those soulful, beautiful brown orbs.

"I tried to gather together everything I'd learned about you." The blonde admitted, continuing softly still. "Everything I'd observed, and gather it together in one setting, one day. As I said last night; First times should be... memorable."

Sarah felt heat rise to her face and she cursed silently in her mind, hoping it wasn't too noticeable.

"O-Of course. They should be."

Her inner giddy self was screaming happily though in her mind, she wasn't sure what to expect next.

Dinner ended shortly and Sarah was happy about her stomach being full with good food. The music changed the moment she was about to ask what was for dessert.

"I can't believe you have live music." She commented, only now realizing just how impressive that was. He must have gone to a great deal of trouble!

Fabien's alien, child-like grin from earlier reappeared now as he stood and moved to once again offer his hand to his date.

"Of course." He said simply. "Might I trouble you for a dance?"

"S-sure." She took his hand, letting him lead her away from the table towards the grass. It was beautiful out, with perfect warm weather that wasn't too miserable to be in. It was too perfect. Sarah smiled as she gave him a small lady-like bow.

Fabien took her hand in his, the other going to her waist while hers went to his shoulder. He pulled her close to him, hand splaying across her lower back as he smiled charmingly down at her and swept her up into a waltz. Sarah was sure he could hear her heart beating wildly in her chest; there was no way he didn't with the way it was drumming violently in her ears. The thought made her blush again.

But if the gorgeous blonde did notice, he said nothing.

The sweet symphony out of a classic movie played as Fabien carried her into the dance.

This was perfect.

Perfection.

Sarah let out a small sigh, clearly happy.

Everything that day had overwhelmed all the stress, tears, and disgusting disappointment that had happened. And not just that day, every day. There in the handsome German's arms she felt all the pain, sadness and; now trivial seeming, things that weren't related to that moment just melt away as if part of an entirely alternate universe. If she could cherish one moment, this would be it. A moment with a gorgeous young man who was quickly sweeping her off her feet into something that she quite couldn't explain.

Thinking back, she was in fact happy with the decision of going with four beautiful strangers whom she soon found they could trust and respect.

"I'm happy. I'll be happy. No matter how this summer will end, I'll always be happy with this moment in mind."

"I'm happy." She spoke out loud.

Slightly taken aback, Fabien blinked for a minute and stared down at her. After a moment however, his expression softened and he reached up to gently brush Sarah's hair back, the back of his fingers gently brushing her face.

"Good." He said softly. "I am very glad..."

They came to a stop then just as the music switched to something a little slower.

Sarah gasped lightly as a smooth masculine voice from somewhere nearby began to sing a song she was surprised to find she knew.

"I know this song!" She gasped breathlessly.

Fabien chuckled and both his hands went around her waist now.

"This is very American, yes?" He questioned as he lifted her hands around his neck.

Sarah's breath hitched at the position and their closeness and she nodded numbly.

"Yes..." She whispered breathlessly. "It is."

Her insides tingled as the lyrics spoke to her soul. She loved that song!

"The strands in your eyes that color them wonderful, stop me and steal my breath. And emeralds from mountains thrust towards the sky, never revealing their depth."

It was such a strange choice, and she couldn't help but wonder if it was random, or if there were some deeper meaning and/or reasoning behind it. She didn't want to overthink something that was probably so simple but all the same, the thought nagged at the back of her mind.

"Tell me that we belong together, dress it up with the trappings of love. I'll be captivated, I'll hang from your lips, instead of the gallows of heartache that hang from above."

Sarah smiled and closed her eyes as her and her partner swayed back and forth to the music. Unable to stop herself, and truthfully not really realizing she was doing so, she began to sing along with the words she knew so well.

"I'll be your crying shoulder. I'll be love's suicide. I'll be better when I'm older. I'll be the greatest fan of your life."

Fabien took in her voice. He wondered if she knew how beautiful her voice sounded as she sang. It sent warm waves of affection through him. He held her close, leaning down to hear her better.

"And rain falls angry on the tin roof, as we lie awake in my bed. You're my survival, you're my living proof; My love is alive and not dead."

Sarah opened her eyes again and she started slightly when she noticed how close Fabien's face was to hers. The realization made her entire body flush hotly and she felt suddenly self-conscious.

"I-I'm sorry..." She stuttered. "I didn't- I mean um, I know most people don't like it when someone sings a song... says it ruins it and everything and um..."

She trailed off and looked away, feeling suddenly very embarrassed and foolish.

A moment later however, she felt a finger under her chin turned her face back towards her partner's.

"Don't apologise." The blonde whispered, his own voice barely an audible, low rumble. "You have a beautiful voice and I'll admit, I'm quite partial to it..."

Sarah swallowed heard, the sickening, fluttery feeling from earlier returning tenfold now.

"Th-thank you..." She stuttered again, blinking feverishly a few times. Good lord what was he doing to her! "I-... I really like your voice too.. have I told you that?... It's... it's hypnotic- in a good way!.. And I... it makes me wanna swoon nearly every time you speak..."

Now Fabien was utterly shocked, and he stopped, staring at the brunette with one such an expression.

"I-... really?" He asked completely dumbfounded.

"Uh-huh. And- Oh God!" She took a second to realize what she'd just uttered. "I do. Dear Lord, I never meant to say that out loud... but... yes, it... it does..."

She wanted to run and hide.

This man was driving her insane! Making her say things she would never normally admit out loud! Now he was going to think she was weird!

There went that perfect evening!

She felt like she was going to be sick, that or cry. But Sarah Wilson did not cry! Especially over something so silly!

After what felt like a painful eternity, and much to Sarah's shock and relief, she felt her partner start up their dance again and she inhaled deeply, holding her breath as she braved a look at the blonde from the corner of her eye. Indeed, she nearly did swoon when she noted the drool-worthy smile on his face, the most handsome and killer smile she'd ever seen, let alone one directed at her.

"That is a new one, I must admit." He said, obviously much more pleased then the brunette had anticipated. "Usually, people say my voice is too rough or too deep to be attractive. I have a terrible singing voice, and I'm not used to getting compliments like that... indeed I believe it is the first time I've ever had one!"

He looked like a kid at Christmas.

Suddenly his smile softened again and he leaned down a little into Sarah's face.

"Thank you..." He whispered. "You've certainly made my night..."

"And you've made mine…" She whispered back, unable to tear her gaze from his face where it was transfixed. "Actually… you've made my entire day… month! No one's ever gone through the lengths for me that you have just in one day. I… I want to thank you. What I have to say can never be enough, but… from the bottom of my heart…. Thank you."

"Ah, but it still isn't over yet." Fabien said softly, still smiling as he reached up to once more brush his fingers across her cheek. But this time he didn't pull them away afterwards.

Sarah swallowed hard, her throat suddenly dry as she stared unblinkingly up into the blonde's face. Once more they came to a halt but this time neither noticed as their gazes locked unbreakably.

"I remember the last thing we talked about last night." He informed her in another soft whisper. "And I know you do as well... My only question is this..."

His large hand cupped her face, thumb gently caressing her jawline.

"Are you sure...?" He whispered, barely audible.

She knew in her heart what the right answer was.

"Yes."

Her eyes wavered.

She waited.

"You don't mind giving something so precious to a near complete stranger...?" He whispered, his face drawing closer to hers.

Her heart was thundering in her ribcage like war drums, her head was swimming, her hands sweaty and shanking, her knees trembled.

"I... don't feel like you're a stranger..." She whispered back, her eyelids feverishly fluttering half-mast as she stared up at the blonde.

Fabien smiled and it reached his eyes, making them sparkle.

"Then I can think of no greater honor." He said finally.

Finally, his face dipped down. Hesitating for a moment only, he finally closed the distance between them.

A jolt of electricity passed through them as their lips brushed, then pressed firmly together.

Reflexively, Sarah gripped Fabien's shoulders, feeling suddenly lightheaded like she was about to faint. Her head cleared however when Fabien pulled her close to him with the hand still on her waist as it moved to splay across her lower back.

A cross between a small whimper and a sigh escaped the brunette as she finally gathered up the strength and courage to kiss him back.

Her chest was heaving rapidly as her hands nervously and shakily went around the blonde's neck and her eyes finally slid closed.

The shy innocence in that one gesture sent the blonde's mind reeling, and an overwhelming urge of protectiveness overwhelmed him, making him pull the girl in his arms impossibly close to him. Something in his mind told him he shouldn't do this, shouldn't be the one to take something so precious from her; that it should be saved for someone much more special to her, maybe someone back home. But a little voice at the back of his mind brushed it aside, reasoning that something that felt this good couldn't possibly be wrong. Besides, it was already too late.

The hand at her cheek moved around to the back of her head and threaded fingers through her soft, silky hair.

Sarah felt suddenly weightless. She'd never actually done drugs before, but she reasoned that if she did, this is exactly what it would feel like. Tiny jolts and vibrations stemmed out from the places Fabien's hands touched and it set her nerves on edge. The soft and tender movement of the blonde's lips against hers; caressing, massaging, working her into a soft putty, made tiny sparks of color pop behind her eyelids.

Her face flushed with embarrassment for what felt like the hundredth time as she felt herself tremble slightly, but it couldn't be helped.

Suddenly there was a loud whistling sound and Sarah pulled away with a small gasp. Just as her eyes flew open, there was a loud popping sound and the sky exploded with a burst of color, then another, and another. In her kiss-drunken stupor, it took the brunette a moment to realize that the pops and explosions were in fact bright and beautiful fireworks.

"Fireworks…?" She whispered in confusion.

"Too much?"

Sarah looked up at the blonde and blinked at him in astonishment.

"You did this?"

He reached a hand up to the back of his neck and looked away awkwardly.

"Cheesy? Corny?" He questioned, a little embarrassed himself now. "I thought that-"

The movement of Sarah placing a finger to his lips made him stop and look back at her.

"A little." She teased softly with a smile. "But I think it's really sweet, and like I said; everything you've done has been the most amazing- It's the most anyone's ever done for me and I can never thank you enough for it…"

Fabien relaxed and smiled, taking her hand then and leading her down by the lake to a bench. There he sat her down and placed an arm around her shoulders. Sarah smiled happily as she wrapped her arms around him and turned her face towards the sky.

The two watched the fireworks for a while until after a few moments, Fabien placed a finger under her chin and lifted her face to look at him. When she blinked questioningly at him he leaned down and pressed another kiss to her lips.

Sarah felt a hot wave wash over her as her eyes fluttered shut. Tiny electric currents pulsed between them, starting at the lips, and the brunette felt like her entire body was on fire. It was a sweet and delicious feeling and she again felt like she was high.

Finally, the blonde pulled away and Sarah's eyes slowly fluttered back open. Fabien's own eyes were half-mast as he stared down at his date with a tender expression, his finger still under her chin.

"Sorry…" He said softly. "I couldn't resist just one more…."

Sarah said nothing as she smiled at him, leaning up to give him a quick peck on the cheek before leaning down and resting her head on his shoulder, turning again back to the sky. She only half registered the colorful explosions as her body tingled with her new experience.

Beside her, Fabien's own body was a storm of emotion. The arm around his date pulled her close to him and with a soft sigh, his cheek moved to rest on top of her head. He was very glad just then that his companion was preoccupied with the sky because he didn't really feel like letting her see the ridiculously childish grin on his face just then.

Suddenly a thought came to him, something his mother always used to say to his father. He never thought he'd ever find someone to apply them to, but sitting with his arms around the girl beside him, he found himself strangely comfortable matching them with Sarah's face.

"Wie süß ist es zu lieben, und aufgelöst werden, und wie es mir in deiner Liebe baden waren."