Summary: Rory finally agrees to go out on a date with Tristan. She falls
for the sweet Tristan that no one knows. He lets her see the real him. They
become a couple but at school he turns back into the "King of Chilton," the
jerk/player. And then when they're alone he's all sweet again.
Authors: Trory- addict4life and mysterygirl2000
Pairing: Trory
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: I own nadda! Zip, Zilch! I wish CMM was mine though... but he's
not :( I want him back on GG or DC!!!!
A/N: sorry for taking so long to post this. Both Michelle and I have been totally busy! Well all I gotta say is this took a sharp turn! lol, didn't expect it to go that far but i'm happy with this chapter! We'll try to finish this soon, as I was hoping it would be a short fic!
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The jeep made its way slowly towards Hartford. Inside, Rory leaned against the door, staring but into the night. Jess watched her out of the corner of his eye. He knew she was thinking about Tristan and wanted to offer some sort of comfort. Unfortunately, he didn't know what to say. Finally he leaned over and flipped on the radio.
Chill out whatcha yelling' for? Lay back it's all been done before And if you could only let it be you will see I like you the way you are When we're drivin' in your car and you're talking to me one on one but you've become
Somebody else round everyone else You're watching your back like you can't relax You're tryin' to be cool you look like a fool to me Tell me
Jess reached for the button to change the station when Rory said
"Wait."
Slowly he pulled his hand back. Rory turned away from the window, leaning back in the seat. She closed her eyes, listening to the song.
Tell me why you have to go and make things so complicated? I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated Life's like this you And you fall and you crawl and you break and you take what you get and you turn it into honesty and promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it no no no
You come over unannounced dressed up like you're somethin' else where you are and where it's at you see you're making me laugh out when you strike your pose take off all your preppy clothes you know you're not fooling anyone when you've become
Somebody else round everyone else Watching your back, like you can't relax Trying to be cool you look like a fool to me
Tell me why you have to go and make things so complicated? I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated Life's like this you and You fall and you crawl and you break and you take what you get and you turn it into honesty promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it no no no
Chill out whatcha yelling for? Lay back, it's all been done before And if you could only let it be You will see
Somebody else round everyone else You're watching your back, like you can't relax You're trying to be cool, you look like a fool to me Tell me
Why you have to go and make things so complicated? I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated Life's like this you and You fall and you crawl and you break and you take what you get and you turn it into honesty promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it no no no
Why you have to go and make things so complicated? I see the way you're acting like your somebody else gets me frustrated Life's like this you, You fall and you crawl and you break and you take what you get and you turn it into honesty promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it no no no
As the song ended, the DJ' came back on
"And that was Complicated from Avril Lavigne. We'll be right back with more after this commercial."
Rory started to laugh.
"What?" Jess asked, his eyes still on the road
"I like that song. It sounds just like my life right now. complicated."
Jess pulled into the parking lot for the Hartford Country Club. He parked the jeep and turned to her.
"Do you love Tristan?"
Rory didn't speak but one look at her gave him the answer he needed. Jess opened his door and slid out of the jeep. He walked around to the other side, opened the door and helped her out. As they started walking towards the building, Jess squeezed her shoulder reassuringly,
"It will work out."
"I wish I could be as sure as you are."
"All you can do is have faith. "
Tristan leaned against the wall, his eyes on the door. Someone tapped him on the shoulder and he turned to see Summer next him.
"Hey Tristan."
"Hi."
"I saw you standing over here by yourself"
"How observant."
"Can't we be friends Tristan?"
"I don't think that would be possible."
He turned his attention back to the door, thinking she would go away. Instead, she moved closer, putting her hand on his arm. Slowly her hand moved up his arm and across his shoulder, stopping at the base of his neck. Her fingers began playing with the hair on that was there. Leaning in, she whispered,
"How about if we go someplace private."
Tristan pulled away, turning to her,
"Things are different now Summer."
"Are you worried about Rory." She whispered, "Because she doesn't have to know."
He pulled away from her again.
"I'll know." He said, "And I am not going to lose what I have with Rory over you."
Summer was looking at someone who had just entered the room.
"She seems to have moved on."
He turned back to the door to see Rory walk in with someone he assumed was Jess. She slipped her jacket off and handed it to him. As she pointed across the room, he saw Jess nod, then walk away.
"Now where were we."
"No where." Tristan said, walking away.
Slowly he crossed the room, moving towards her. She had her back to him and was looking at a painting as he approached. Stopping behind her, he said,
"It's not half as beautiful as you."
She turned, her eyes meeting his.
"Hi." She whispered
"Rory, you look amazing."
"Thanks. You look nice too."
A few minutes later, Jess returned and Rory made the introductions.
"Jess Mariano, this is Tristan DuGrey."
Tristan extended his hand. Jess looked at it for a minute, then shook his hand. As Tristan pulled his hand back, he said,
"I hope you both enjoy the evening. Rory do you think you can save me a dance later?"
"Sure."
With that, he turned and walked away. Rory's eyes followed him until he disappeared.
"Rory?"
"Let's find a table." She said, walking away.
Jess fell in step beside her as she wove through the crowds of people
"Are you okay?
"Fine."
Finally she spotted Paris at a table with Madeline and her date. Walking over to the table, she asked,
"Are these seats taken?"
"No." Paris said, "Please sit down."
Jess pulled out Rory's chair, then sat down next to her. Paris leaned over, motioning to Madeline and her date, who were wrapped up in each other.
"At least I have a chance for some intelligent conversation." She said, "Who's he?"
"Paris Geller, this is Jess Mariano. Jess lives in Stars Hollow."
"Hi." Jess said
"Hi."
Paris turned to Rory,
"So you and Tristan
Rory shook her head slightly.
*~Across the room~*
Tristan was standing by the wall once again, this time he was watching Rory and Jess. They had joined Paris at a table she was sharing with Madeline and her flavor of the week. He didn't notice Alec beside him until he spoke,
"Hey."
Tristan turned to Alec.
"Hey."
"I saw you with Summer earlier. I didn't know you two were back together."
"We're not."
"Then who did you bring?"
"I came alone."
"The great Tristan DuGrey. The man who can have any girl just by snapping his fingers, came to a school dance alone. I find that hard to believe."
"Believe it."
Alec followed Tristen's gaze across the room to where Rory sat with Jess and Paris.
"Who's the guy with Gilmore."
"A friend."
They watched as Jess leaned over and whispered something in Rory's ear. When she nodded, he stood up, holding out his hand. Slowly he pulled her to her feet and they walked onto the dance floor. Jess slipped his arms around her waist while Rory slipped hers around his neck. They began to move in time to the music.
"They look like more than friends to me." Alec said, "But what can you expect from a girl like that."
Tristan turned quickly, facing Alec,
"What do you mean a girl like that."
"She's playing you Tristan." he said, "She's going to try to trap you."
Tristan felt his anger begin to rise.
"Rory's not like that."
"Open your eyes. She's from a small town, she comes from nothing."
Tristan grabbed Alec by the front of his shirt and pushed him back against the wall. Leaning in, he said,
"Rory Gilmore is better that you or anyone else in this school. You better not say another word about her again. If I find out you did, I won't be so nice."
Tristan released Alec's shirt and walked out the door. Alec watched him, then turned his attention to Rory. His eyes narrowed,
"This isn't over." He whispered.
*~On the Dance Floor~*
"Rory?"
"Yeah?"
"What's the deal with Paris?"
"What do you mean?"
"Is she seeing anyone?"
"No, not that I. Jess do you want to ask her out?"
"She seems nice. She can hold an intelligent conversation. What do you think my chances are?"
"Why don't you ask her to dance?"
"Now?"
"No time like the present."
"All right."
Jess unwrapped his arms from around Rory's waist and walked back to the table. Rory watched as he leaned down and whispered something in Paris's ear. When she nodded, he held out his hand and pulled her to her feet.
As they walked onto the dance floor, she walked away. She looked around, hoping to find Tristan. As she headed towards one of the doors, she heard someone call her name. Turning around, she saw a boy coming towards her.
"Rory, you're just the person I was looking for."
"Sorry, do I know you."
"I'm Alec, a friend of Tristan's. He asked me to find you."
"Where is he?"
"He's outside."
"Why is he outside?"
"He's planning surprise for you." Alec said, "He asked me to find you and bring you outside."
"I can't. Tell him if he wants to talk, he can come inside."
Alec leaned in,
"Rory, can I be honest with you? Tristan is really hurt right now. When he saw you with that other guy, it tore him up."
"He seemed fine earlier when I talked to him."
"That's the way he is. He doesn't let people know he's vulnerable so he doesn't get hurt."
Everything was telling Rory she should say no. Then again, when she thought about it, Tristan never did really open up to her. Finally she said
"All right. Just let me tell my friend where I'm going."
"There's not really any time. I promised Tristan I would have you outside by nine."
Rory looked down at her watch to see it was already nine.
"All right. Let's go."
Alec took Rory by the arm and led her towards the door. From the dance floor, Jess watched as a boy led Rory towards the door.
"Paris, who's the guy with Rory."
Paris looked over her shoulder at the retreating couple.
"Alec White. He's a friend of Tristan's."
Jess looked up again as they disappeared. Something didn't seem right.
"Jess?"
He turned back to Paris.
"Tell me what you know about him."
* * *
Tristan walked through the door, entering the ballroom again. He looked around for Rory, but didn't see her. Weaving through the tables, he stopped at the edge of the dance floor, trying to spot Rory or Jess. Turning, he finally spotted Jess dancing with Paris. Slowly he made his way through the crowd towards the couple. Stopping next to them, he tapped Jess on the shoulder,
"Jess."
Jess looked over to see Tristan standing next to him.
"Hey."
"I was looking for Rory. Did She leave?"
"She went out that door with." he turned to Paris, who said
"She went outside with Alec."
"She went somewhere with Alec? Did she say where they were going?"
"No, they went out that door about 10 minutes ago." Jess said, pointing across the room.
Tristan turned quickly, pushing through the crowd. Jess took off after Tristan. He caught up with him at the door.
"What's going on Tristan?"
"Rory might be in trouble."
*~Outside~*
"Where is he?" Rory asked
"He's waiting over there." Alec said, point to the side of the building.
Rory started to walk in the direction that Alec had pointed. A moment later, Alec fell in step beside her.
"You don't have to come with me."
"I told Tristan I would make sure you got there."
"All right."
The walked around the building to find no one there."
"Are you sure this is where he wanted to meet?"
"Yeah. He must be running a little late."
Rory leaned against the wall. She looked around, hoping Tristan would get there soon. Alec walked over to where she was standing.
"So you and Tristan are serious?"
"I. we haven't talked about it."
Alec inched a little closer.
"Are you sleeping with him."
"I don't think that's any of your business."
"You want him too. You girls are all alike."
"Tristan's not coming, is he?"
Alec smiled at her. Rory tried to get away but Alec was quicker. His hand closed around her arm. She tried to pull away but it was no use. He pulled her towards him.
"What's your hurry."
She tried unsuccessfully to pull her arm free but he only tightened his grip. He pushed her roughly against the wall, causing her to cry out. Alec leaned in, his face inches from hers. Rory turned her head. He turned her face so she was looking at him.
"Come on Mary." He whispered, "Be nice."
She tried to push him away.
"LET ME GO!" she shouted
Alec's hand came crashing down on her face. He shoved her against the wall again.
"I guess I'm going to have to teach you some manners."
Alec kept her pinned against the wall with his body and used a free hand to turn her face so she was looking at him. He leaned in again, one hand keeping her face still and the other moving down the front of her dress.
"This is going to be fun."
"NO!" she shouted
He turned her face away from him, covering her mouth with his hand.
* * *
Tristan and Jess ran out of the clubhouse.
"They weren't inside." Tristan said.
"And they could be anywhere out here." Jess said, "What should we do?"
"You go that way and I'll go this way."
"All right. Let's meet here in 15 minutes."
"Okay."
Jess took off towards the golf courses. Tristan started towards the pool house when he heard what sounded like someone shouting. He took off in that direction. As he came around the building and saw two people.
"Rory!" he shouted
Alec turned to see Tristan. He released Rory and took off. Rory slid down the wall towards the ground. Tristan ran to where she was and knelt down next to her. She looked up. He could see a red mark on her face and her lip was bleeding.
"Rory." He whispered
He took Rory in his arms, holding her as she sobbed.
"He. he."
"Its all right." He whispered over and over again.
"Tristan!"
Looking up, he saw two people coming towards them.. After a moment, he realized it was Jess dragging Alec by the collar. Slowly he stood up, pulling Rory up with him and led her over to a bench.
"I'll be right back." He whispered.
She nodded, keeping her head to the ground. As he walked away, Rory curled up in little ball, bringing her knees to rest under her chin. Tristan walked over to where Jess stood with Alec. He grabbed Alec by his jacket and pulled him roughly forward.
"What the hell were you doing!" he screamed
"She came onto me. I told you she was a tramp."
"I told you not to talk about her like that." He said, his fist connecting with Alec's face.
Alec fell to the ground. Tristan reached for him again but Jess grabbed his arm.
"He's not worth it. Come on, Rory needs you."
Tristan looked at Alec on the ground, then turned away shaking his head.
He walked back towards where Rory was sitting, pulling off his jacket. Carefully he wrapped it around her shoulders. She looked up and when he saw her tear stained face, his heart broke. He pulled her into his arms and held her as she began to sob again.
Slowly the three of them started back towards the clubhouse. Rory leaned against Tristan, keeping her head pressed against his shoulder. They stopped outside the clubhouse. Tristan led Rory over to a set of benches and slowly sat down, leaning her against him. Turning to Jess, he said,
"Can you get her coat from inside?"
"Sure."
Jess ran inside, leaving them alone.
"Rory?"
She leaned her head back, looking him in the eyes.
"Did Alec. did he." Tristan couldn't finish his sentence
"No." she whispered
Jess came running outside a few minutes later, with Paris following behind.. He stopped next to them, holding the jacket. Tristan slowly pulled his jacket away from Rory.
"Oh God."
"What?"
Jess and Paris peeked over Tristan's shoulder to see Rory's shoulders covered with several small cuts and some bruises from being pushed against the wall. Tristan took the jacket from Jess and covered Rory with it. He stood up, pulling her next up too. He led her towards his car. Jess fell in step beside them.
"Where are you going?"
"I'm taking her to the hospital."
"No hospitals." She mumbled
Tristan stopped, pulling her away from him. Looking at her, he said,
"Rory you need to have someone look at you."
"The hospital will call my mom."
"Do you think you are going to be able to hide this from her." He said, "You're face is not going to heal over night. What are you going to tell her in the morning."
"All right."
Tristan led Rory towards his car.
"I'll follow you in the jeep." Jess shouted at the retreating couple.
* * *
Lorelai walked into the kitchen and opened the refrigerator. She picked up a container of Chinese food and opened it. The smell hit her before she had a chance to look inside. Turning around, she threw it in the garbage can. Looking in the fridge again, she shook her head and closed the door. Picking up her keys and her cell phone she walked out the door.
She walked into Luke's about 10 minutes later, heading for the counter. As she sat down, Luke approached her,
"What can I get you?"
"A cheeseburger and cup of coffee."
"How about a salad and cup of tea."
"How about no." She said, "A cheeseburger and cup of coffee please."
Luke headed back towards the kitchen, mumbling something about slow death. As he was about to walk into the kitchen when he heard a cell phone rang. Turning about, he scanned the nearly empty diner, his eyes finally settling on Lorelai as she picked up her cell phone. He walked back over to her, ready to tell her to take it outside when he noticed the look on her face as she spoke.
"Yes, I'll be right there."
She hung up the phone and stood up quickly.
"What's going on Lorelai?"
"Rory's in the hospital. "
"What happened? Did they say anything about Jess?"
"I. no. I don't know. I need to get to the hospital."
She ran out the door. Luke turned around picking up the phone. A few minutes later, she ran back in.
"I don't' have my car. I. I need a cab. I need to call a cab. Where's the phone? I need - can anyone give me - I'm holding a phone. "
Luke walked over to her, taking her by the shoulders.
"Calm down. "
"I can't calm down. I need a cab. What's the number for the Cab Company? Can somebody tell me the number of the cab guy! "
"I'll drive you. " Luke said, "Diner's closing early everyone. Food's on the house. Let's go."
People started standing up, picking up their jackets. As they filed out of the diner, Lorelai made her way to the counter. When the last person was gone, Luke walked over to her.
"My truck's parked around back."
Taking her by the arm, he pulled her up and led her towards the kitchen.
"Luke I'm."
"I know." He said, pushing open the kitchen door.
*~Hospital~*
Tristan and Jess were sitting in the waiting room, watching for a doctor or nurse bringing word on Rory.
"Any word?"
They looked up to see Paris standing next them.
"No." Tristan said, standing up, "No one has told us a thing."
The doors slid open and a woman ran inside with a man trailing behind.
"Luke!" Jess shouted as the man ran by
The man skidded to a halt as the woman ran to the desk. He turned and rushed over to them.
"Jess, are you all right? Is Rory okay?"
"I'm fine." He said, "And no one's said anything about Rory yet."
"What happened?"
"She was attacked sir."
Luke turned around to see a boy standing behind him.
"Who are you?"
"Tristan, did you bring Lorelai?"
Everyone turned to see Lorelai coming towards them. Luke was immediately at her side.
"How is she? When can we see her?"
"The doctor is in with her now. They can't tell me much until they are done. Tristan what happened?"
"Another boy at the dance got her to go outside with him. He told her I wanted to meet her. It's my fault. I should have been there to stop him. I'm so sorry Lorelai."
Lorelai stepped forward, wrapping her arms around him.
"No one's blaming you."
"Ms Gilmore."
Lorelai released Tristan and turned around as the doctor approached.
"How's my daughter? Can I see her?"
"Would you like to speak in private."
Lorelai looked at the people standing behind her.
"Anything you say to me you can say to them."
"Your daughter was brought in with abrasions and lacerations to her face, back and arms. We were told it happened at a school dance but Rory won't give us any additional information as to who did it or why?"
"It was a boy from the dance. He got her to go outside with him." Tristan said
"Do you know this boy?"
"Yes?"
"The police will probably want to speak with you."
"Police?"
"In cases like these we are required to inform the police. They will be here soon."
"All right." Tristan said, "I'll hang around."
"Doctor can I see my daughter now?"
"They are getting her ready to transport her to a room. As soon as she is settled, I will let you know. However, I must warn you that we gave her something to help her sleep so she will be a little groggy."
"Thank you."
The doctor turned slowly, disappearing behind a set of doors. Lorelai turned slowly to the group behind her.
"You should all head home."
No one moved at first.
"Really there's nothing more you can do tonight."
After much insistence, Paris was the first to leave, promising to call tomorrow. Jess stepped forward, handing Lorelai the keys to the jeep.
"Its parked on the 4th level."
"Thanks."
Luke hugged Lorelai
"Call me later."
Lorelai nodded.
After Jess and Luke filed out, Lorelai turned to Tristan
"You should go home. You're parents might be worried."
"My parents are in Spain. "
"I'm sorry, I didn't know."
"Its all right. I've gotten used to them being gone."
Lorelai started to say something when the doctor appeared again.
"Ms Gilmore?"
She turned to the doctor.
"Yes?"
"Your daughter has been moved to room 323. You can take that elevator to the third floor, then follow the signs to the room."
"Thank you."
The doctor walked away, leaving Lorelai and Tristan alone.
"Do you want to come with me to see Rory."
"Yes."
Together they walked over to the elevator. Lorelai pushed the button and waited until the door opened. They stepped on the elevator and he pressed the button for the 3rd floor. As the elevator crept slowly up to the 3rd floor, Lorelai turned to Tristan,
"How long are your parents gone for?"
"2 more weeks. unless they stay longer." He said, "Why?"
"Well I'm taking Rory home tomorrow and I really don't want to leave her alone but I have this big party coming to the inn so I have to be there." Lorelai began, "So what I was thinking is what if you come to Stars Hollow and stay with us for a few days."
"Lorelai you don't have to do this."
"Do what, it would be an enormous help to have someone there."
"I don't want to inconvenience you."
"It wouldn't be. So what do you say?"
"All right. I'll go home tonight and get my things together and I'll meet you here tomorrow when you come to pick up Rory."
"Great."
The elevator stopped and the doors opened. They stepped off the elevator and walked down the hall, following the signs until to Rory's room. The nurse outside was just closing the door as they walked up.
"Is she sleeping?" Lorelai asked
"She's in and out." The nurse said, "I wouldn't stay too long."
"We're just going to say good night."
"All right."
Lorelai opened the door and they stepped inside. As she approached the bed, Tristan closed the door and walked over to where Lorelai was standing. His eyes widened when he saw Rory's face. Her bottom lip was covered with a small gauze pad and there were bruises on her cheek and the side of her face.
"It's all my fault." He whispered
"You didn't do anything." Lorelai said,
"I should have been with her Lorelai." He said, "I don't know how she will ever forgive me."
Lorelai squeezed his shoulder,
"She loves you."
The door opened and a nurse looked inside.
"I'm sorry but visiting hours are over."
"All right."
Lorelai leaned down, kissing her daughter's forehead,
"Good night mini me." She whispered
She stepped back, moving towards the door. Tristan moved towards Rory. Taking her hand in his, he raised it to his lips and brushed his lips across the back of her hand. Carefully he set her hand down, then leaned down and kissed her softly on the lips.
"Good night Rory." He whispered, "I love you."
Her eyes fluttered open.
"Love you." She whispered
Her eyes closed slowly and she fell back into a deep sleep.
Tristan slowly backed away from the bed, joining Lorelai at the door. Together they walked out of the room.
A/N: sorry for taking so long to post this. Both Michelle and I have been totally busy! Well all I gotta say is this took a sharp turn! lol, didn't expect it to go that far but i'm happy with this chapter! We'll try to finish this soon, as I was hoping it would be a short fic!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ *~*~*~*
The jeep made its way slowly towards Hartford. Inside, Rory leaned against the door, staring but into the night. Jess watched her out of the corner of his eye. He knew she was thinking about Tristan and wanted to offer some sort of comfort. Unfortunately, he didn't know what to say. Finally he leaned over and flipped on the radio.
Chill out whatcha yelling' for? Lay back it's all been done before And if you could only let it be you will see I like you the way you are When we're drivin' in your car and you're talking to me one on one but you've become
Somebody else round everyone else You're watching your back like you can't relax You're tryin' to be cool you look like a fool to me Tell me
Jess reached for the button to change the station when Rory said
"Wait."
Slowly he pulled his hand back. Rory turned away from the window, leaning back in the seat. She closed her eyes, listening to the song.
Tell me why you have to go and make things so complicated? I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated Life's like this you And you fall and you crawl and you break and you take what you get and you turn it into honesty and promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it no no no
You come over unannounced dressed up like you're somethin' else where you are and where it's at you see you're making me laugh out when you strike your pose take off all your preppy clothes you know you're not fooling anyone when you've become
Somebody else round everyone else Watching your back, like you can't relax Trying to be cool you look like a fool to me
Tell me why you have to go and make things so complicated? I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated Life's like this you and You fall and you crawl and you break and you take what you get and you turn it into honesty promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it no no no
Chill out whatcha yelling for? Lay back, it's all been done before And if you could only let it be You will see
Somebody else round everyone else You're watching your back, like you can't relax You're trying to be cool, you look like a fool to me Tell me
Why you have to go and make things so complicated? I see the way you're acting like you're somebody else gets me frustrated Life's like this you and You fall and you crawl and you break and you take what you get and you turn it into honesty promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it no no no
Why you have to go and make things so complicated? I see the way you're acting like your somebody else gets me frustrated Life's like this you, You fall and you crawl and you break and you take what you get and you turn it into honesty promise me I'm never gonna find you fake it no no no
As the song ended, the DJ' came back on
"And that was Complicated from Avril Lavigne. We'll be right back with more after this commercial."
Rory started to laugh.
"What?" Jess asked, his eyes still on the road
"I like that song. It sounds just like my life right now. complicated."
Jess pulled into the parking lot for the Hartford Country Club. He parked the jeep and turned to her.
"Do you love Tristan?"
Rory didn't speak but one look at her gave him the answer he needed. Jess opened his door and slid out of the jeep. He walked around to the other side, opened the door and helped her out. As they started walking towards the building, Jess squeezed her shoulder reassuringly,
"It will work out."
"I wish I could be as sure as you are."
"All you can do is have faith. "
Tristan leaned against the wall, his eyes on the door. Someone tapped him on the shoulder and he turned to see Summer next him.
"Hey Tristan."
"Hi."
"I saw you standing over here by yourself"
"How observant."
"Can't we be friends Tristan?"
"I don't think that would be possible."
He turned his attention back to the door, thinking she would go away. Instead, she moved closer, putting her hand on his arm. Slowly her hand moved up his arm and across his shoulder, stopping at the base of his neck. Her fingers began playing with the hair on that was there. Leaning in, she whispered,
"How about if we go someplace private."
Tristan pulled away, turning to her,
"Things are different now Summer."
"Are you worried about Rory." She whispered, "Because she doesn't have to know."
He pulled away from her again.
"I'll know." He said, "And I am not going to lose what I have with Rory over you."
Summer was looking at someone who had just entered the room.
"She seems to have moved on."
He turned back to the door to see Rory walk in with someone he assumed was Jess. She slipped her jacket off and handed it to him. As she pointed across the room, he saw Jess nod, then walk away.
"Now where were we."
"No where." Tristan said, walking away.
Slowly he crossed the room, moving towards her. She had her back to him and was looking at a painting as he approached. Stopping behind her, he said,
"It's not half as beautiful as you."
She turned, her eyes meeting his.
"Hi." She whispered
"Rory, you look amazing."
"Thanks. You look nice too."
A few minutes later, Jess returned and Rory made the introductions.
"Jess Mariano, this is Tristan DuGrey."
Tristan extended his hand. Jess looked at it for a minute, then shook his hand. As Tristan pulled his hand back, he said,
"I hope you both enjoy the evening. Rory do you think you can save me a dance later?"
"Sure."
With that, he turned and walked away. Rory's eyes followed him until he disappeared.
"Rory?"
"Let's find a table." She said, walking away.
Jess fell in step beside her as she wove through the crowds of people
"Are you okay?
"Fine."
Finally she spotted Paris at a table with Madeline and her date. Walking over to the table, she asked,
"Are these seats taken?"
"No." Paris said, "Please sit down."
Jess pulled out Rory's chair, then sat down next to her. Paris leaned over, motioning to Madeline and her date, who were wrapped up in each other.
"At least I have a chance for some intelligent conversation." She said, "Who's he?"
"Paris Geller, this is Jess Mariano. Jess lives in Stars Hollow."
"Hi." Jess said
"Hi."
Paris turned to Rory,
"So you and Tristan
Rory shook her head slightly.
*~Across the room~*
Tristan was standing by the wall once again, this time he was watching Rory and Jess. They had joined Paris at a table she was sharing with Madeline and her flavor of the week. He didn't notice Alec beside him until he spoke,
"Hey."
Tristan turned to Alec.
"Hey."
"I saw you with Summer earlier. I didn't know you two were back together."
"We're not."
"Then who did you bring?"
"I came alone."
"The great Tristan DuGrey. The man who can have any girl just by snapping his fingers, came to a school dance alone. I find that hard to believe."
"Believe it."
Alec followed Tristen's gaze across the room to where Rory sat with Jess and Paris.
"Who's the guy with Gilmore."
"A friend."
They watched as Jess leaned over and whispered something in Rory's ear. When she nodded, he stood up, holding out his hand. Slowly he pulled her to her feet and they walked onto the dance floor. Jess slipped his arms around her waist while Rory slipped hers around his neck. They began to move in time to the music.
"They look like more than friends to me." Alec said, "But what can you expect from a girl like that."
Tristan turned quickly, facing Alec,
"What do you mean a girl like that."
"She's playing you Tristan." he said, "She's going to try to trap you."
Tristan felt his anger begin to rise.
"Rory's not like that."
"Open your eyes. She's from a small town, she comes from nothing."
Tristan grabbed Alec by the front of his shirt and pushed him back against the wall. Leaning in, he said,
"Rory Gilmore is better that you or anyone else in this school. You better not say another word about her again. If I find out you did, I won't be so nice."
Tristan released Alec's shirt and walked out the door. Alec watched him, then turned his attention to Rory. His eyes narrowed,
"This isn't over." He whispered.
*~On the Dance Floor~*
"Rory?"
"Yeah?"
"What's the deal with Paris?"
"What do you mean?"
"Is she seeing anyone?"
"No, not that I. Jess do you want to ask her out?"
"She seems nice. She can hold an intelligent conversation. What do you think my chances are?"
"Why don't you ask her to dance?"
"Now?"
"No time like the present."
"All right."
Jess unwrapped his arms from around Rory's waist and walked back to the table. Rory watched as he leaned down and whispered something in Paris's ear. When she nodded, he held out his hand and pulled her to her feet.
As they walked onto the dance floor, she walked away. She looked around, hoping to find Tristan. As she headed towards one of the doors, she heard someone call her name. Turning around, she saw a boy coming towards her.
"Rory, you're just the person I was looking for."
"Sorry, do I know you."
"I'm Alec, a friend of Tristan's. He asked me to find you."
"Where is he?"
"He's outside."
"Why is he outside?"
"He's planning surprise for you." Alec said, "He asked me to find you and bring you outside."
"I can't. Tell him if he wants to talk, he can come inside."
Alec leaned in,
"Rory, can I be honest with you? Tristan is really hurt right now. When he saw you with that other guy, it tore him up."
"He seemed fine earlier when I talked to him."
"That's the way he is. He doesn't let people know he's vulnerable so he doesn't get hurt."
Everything was telling Rory she should say no. Then again, when she thought about it, Tristan never did really open up to her. Finally she said
"All right. Just let me tell my friend where I'm going."
"There's not really any time. I promised Tristan I would have you outside by nine."
Rory looked down at her watch to see it was already nine.
"All right. Let's go."
Alec took Rory by the arm and led her towards the door. From the dance floor, Jess watched as a boy led Rory towards the door.
"Paris, who's the guy with Rory."
Paris looked over her shoulder at the retreating couple.
"Alec White. He's a friend of Tristan's."
Jess looked up again as they disappeared. Something didn't seem right.
"Jess?"
He turned back to Paris.
"Tell me what you know about him."
* * *
Tristan walked through the door, entering the ballroom again. He looked around for Rory, but didn't see her. Weaving through the tables, he stopped at the edge of the dance floor, trying to spot Rory or Jess. Turning, he finally spotted Jess dancing with Paris. Slowly he made his way through the crowd towards the couple. Stopping next to them, he tapped Jess on the shoulder,
"Jess."
Jess looked over to see Tristan standing next to him.
"Hey."
"I was looking for Rory. Did She leave?"
"She went out that door with." he turned to Paris, who said
"She went outside with Alec."
"She went somewhere with Alec? Did she say where they were going?"
"No, they went out that door about 10 minutes ago." Jess said, pointing across the room.
Tristan turned quickly, pushing through the crowd. Jess took off after Tristan. He caught up with him at the door.
"What's going on Tristan?"
"Rory might be in trouble."
*~Outside~*
"Where is he?" Rory asked
"He's waiting over there." Alec said, point to the side of the building.
Rory started to walk in the direction that Alec had pointed. A moment later, Alec fell in step beside her.
"You don't have to come with me."
"I told Tristan I would make sure you got there."
"All right."
The walked around the building to find no one there."
"Are you sure this is where he wanted to meet?"
"Yeah. He must be running a little late."
Rory leaned against the wall. She looked around, hoping Tristan would get there soon. Alec walked over to where she was standing.
"So you and Tristan are serious?"
"I. we haven't talked about it."
Alec inched a little closer.
"Are you sleeping with him."
"I don't think that's any of your business."
"You want him too. You girls are all alike."
"Tristan's not coming, is he?"
Alec smiled at her. Rory tried to get away but Alec was quicker. His hand closed around her arm. She tried to pull away but it was no use. He pulled her towards him.
"What's your hurry."
She tried unsuccessfully to pull her arm free but he only tightened his grip. He pushed her roughly against the wall, causing her to cry out. Alec leaned in, his face inches from hers. Rory turned her head. He turned her face so she was looking at him.
"Come on Mary." He whispered, "Be nice."
She tried to push him away.
"LET ME GO!" she shouted
Alec's hand came crashing down on her face. He shoved her against the wall again.
"I guess I'm going to have to teach you some manners."
Alec kept her pinned against the wall with his body and used a free hand to turn her face so she was looking at him. He leaned in again, one hand keeping her face still and the other moving down the front of her dress.
"This is going to be fun."
"NO!" she shouted
He turned her face away from him, covering her mouth with his hand.
* * *
Tristan and Jess ran out of the clubhouse.
"They weren't inside." Tristan said.
"And they could be anywhere out here." Jess said, "What should we do?"
"You go that way and I'll go this way."
"All right. Let's meet here in 15 minutes."
"Okay."
Jess took off towards the golf courses. Tristan started towards the pool house when he heard what sounded like someone shouting. He took off in that direction. As he came around the building and saw two people.
"Rory!" he shouted
Alec turned to see Tristan. He released Rory and took off. Rory slid down the wall towards the ground. Tristan ran to where she was and knelt down next to her. She looked up. He could see a red mark on her face and her lip was bleeding.
"Rory." He whispered
He took Rory in his arms, holding her as she sobbed.
"He. he."
"Its all right." He whispered over and over again.
"Tristan!"
Looking up, he saw two people coming towards them.. After a moment, he realized it was Jess dragging Alec by the collar. Slowly he stood up, pulling Rory up with him and led her over to a bench.
"I'll be right back." He whispered.
She nodded, keeping her head to the ground. As he walked away, Rory curled up in little ball, bringing her knees to rest under her chin. Tristan walked over to where Jess stood with Alec. He grabbed Alec by his jacket and pulled him roughly forward.
"What the hell were you doing!" he screamed
"She came onto me. I told you she was a tramp."
"I told you not to talk about her like that." He said, his fist connecting with Alec's face.
Alec fell to the ground. Tristan reached for him again but Jess grabbed his arm.
"He's not worth it. Come on, Rory needs you."
Tristan looked at Alec on the ground, then turned away shaking his head.
He walked back towards where Rory was sitting, pulling off his jacket. Carefully he wrapped it around her shoulders. She looked up and when he saw her tear stained face, his heart broke. He pulled her into his arms and held her as she began to sob again.
Slowly the three of them started back towards the clubhouse. Rory leaned against Tristan, keeping her head pressed against his shoulder. They stopped outside the clubhouse. Tristan led Rory over to a set of benches and slowly sat down, leaning her against him. Turning to Jess, he said,
"Can you get her coat from inside?"
"Sure."
Jess ran inside, leaving them alone.
"Rory?"
She leaned her head back, looking him in the eyes.
"Did Alec. did he." Tristan couldn't finish his sentence
"No." she whispered
Jess came running outside a few minutes later, with Paris following behind.. He stopped next to them, holding the jacket. Tristan slowly pulled his jacket away from Rory.
"Oh God."
"What?"
Jess and Paris peeked over Tristan's shoulder to see Rory's shoulders covered with several small cuts and some bruises from being pushed against the wall. Tristan took the jacket from Jess and covered Rory with it. He stood up, pulling her next up too. He led her towards his car. Jess fell in step beside them.
"Where are you going?"
"I'm taking her to the hospital."
"No hospitals." She mumbled
Tristan stopped, pulling her away from him. Looking at her, he said,
"Rory you need to have someone look at you."
"The hospital will call my mom."
"Do you think you are going to be able to hide this from her." He said, "You're face is not going to heal over night. What are you going to tell her in the morning."
"All right."
Tristan led Rory towards his car.
"I'll follow you in the jeep." Jess shouted at the retreating couple.
* * *
Lorelai walked into the kitchen and opened the refrigerator. She picked up a container of Chinese food and opened it. The smell hit her before she had a chance to look inside. Turning around, she threw it in the garbage can. Looking in the fridge again, she shook her head and closed the door. Picking up her keys and her cell phone she walked out the door.
She walked into Luke's about 10 minutes later, heading for the counter. As she sat down, Luke approached her,
"What can I get you?"
"A cheeseburger and cup of coffee."
"How about a salad and cup of tea."
"How about no." She said, "A cheeseburger and cup of coffee please."
Luke headed back towards the kitchen, mumbling something about slow death. As he was about to walk into the kitchen when he heard a cell phone rang. Turning about, he scanned the nearly empty diner, his eyes finally settling on Lorelai as she picked up her cell phone. He walked back over to her, ready to tell her to take it outside when he noticed the look on her face as she spoke.
"Yes, I'll be right there."
She hung up the phone and stood up quickly.
"What's going on Lorelai?"
"Rory's in the hospital. "
"What happened? Did they say anything about Jess?"
"I. no. I don't know. I need to get to the hospital."
She ran out the door. Luke turned around picking up the phone. A few minutes later, she ran back in.
"I don't' have my car. I. I need a cab. I need to call a cab. Where's the phone? I need - can anyone give me - I'm holding a phone. "
Luke walked over to her, taking her by the shoulders.
"Calm down. "
"I can't calm down. I need a cab. What's the number for the Cab Company? Can somebody tell me the number of the cab guy! "
"I'll drive you. " Luke said, "Diner's closing early everyone. Food's on the house. Let's go."
People started standing up, picking up their jackets. As they filed out of the diner, Lorelai made her way to the counter. When the last person was gone, Luke walked over to her.
"My truck's parked around back."
Taking her by the arm, he pulled her up and led her towards the kitchen.
"Luke I'm."
"I know." He said, pushing open the kitchen door.
*~Hospital~*
Tristan and Jess were sitting in the waiting room, watching for a doctor or nurse bringing word on Rory.
"Any word?"
They looked up to see Paris standing next them.
"No." Tristan said, standing up, "No one has told us a thing."
The doors slid open and a woman ran inside with a man trailing behind.
"Luke!" Jess shouted as the man ran by
The man skidded to a halt as the woman ran to the desk. He turned and rushed over to them.
"Jess, are you all right? Is Rory okay?"
"I'm fine." He said, "And no one's said anything about Rory yet."
"What happened?"
"She was attacked sir."
Luke turned around to see a boy standing behind him.
"Who are you?"
"Tristan, did you bring Lorelai?"
Everyone turned to see Lorelai coming towards them. Luke was immediately at her side.
"How is she? When can we see her?"
"The doctor is in with her now. They can't tell me much until they are done. Tristan what happened?"
"Another boy at the dance got her to go outside with him. He told her I wanted to meet her. It's my fault. I should have been there to stop him. I'm so sorry Lorelai."
Lorelai stepped forward, wrapping her arms around him.
"No one's blaming you."
"Ms Gilmore."
Lorelai released Tristan and turned around as the doctor approached.
"How's my daughter? Can I see her?"
"Would you like to speak in private."
Lorelai looked at the people standing behind her.
"Anything you say to me you can say to them."
"Your daughter was brought in with abrasions and lacerations to her face, back and arms. We were told it happened at a school dance but Rory won't give us any additional information as to who did it or why?"
"It was a boy from the dance. He got her to go outside with him." Tristan said
"Do you know this boy?"
"Yes?"
"The police will probably want to speak with you."
"Police?"
"In cases like these we are required to inform the police. They will be here soon."
"All right." Tristan said, "I'll hang around."
"Doctor can I see my daughter now?"
"They are getting her ready to transport her to a room. As soon as she is settled, I will let you know. However, I must warn you that we gave her something to help her sleep so she will be a little groggy."
"Thank you."
The doctor turned slowly, disappearing behind a set of doors. Lorelai turned slowly to the group behind her.
"You should all head home."
No one moved at first.
"Really there's nothing more you can do tonight."
After much insistence, Paris was the first to leave, promising to call tomorrow. Jess stepped forward, handing Lorelai the keys to the jeep.
"Its parked on the 4th level."
"Thanks."
Luke hugged Lorelai
"Call me later."
Lorelai nodded.
After Jess and Luke filed out, Lorelai turned to Tristan
"You should go home. You're parents might be worried."
"My parents are in Spain. "
"I'm sorry, I didn't know."
"Its all right. I've gotten used to them being gone."
Lorelai started to say something when the doctor appeared again.
"Ms Gilmore?"
She turned to the doctor.
"Yes?"
"Your daughter has been moved to room 323. You can take that elevator to the third floor, then follow the signs to the room."
"Thank you."
The doctor walked away, leaving Lorelai and Tristan alone.
"Do you want to come with me to see Rory."
"Yes."
Together they walked over to the elevator. Lorelai pushed the button and waited until the door opened. They stepped on the elevator and he pressed the button for the 3rd floor. As the elevator crept slowly up to the 3rd floor, Lorelai turned to Tristan,
"How long are your parents gone for?"
"2 more weeks. unless they stay longer." He said, "Why?"
"Well I'm taking Rory home tomorrow and I really don't want to leave her alone but I have this big party coming to the inn so I have to be there." Lorelai began, "So what I was thinking is what if you come to Stars Hollow and stay with us for a few days."
"Lorelai you don't have to do this."
"Do what, it would be an enormous help to have someone there."
"I don't want to inconvenience you."
"It wouldn't be. So what do you say?"
"All right. I'll go home tonight and get my things together and I'll meet you here tomorrow when you come to pick up Rory."
"Great."
The elevator stopped and the doors opened. They stepped off the elevator and walked down the hall, following the signs until to Rory's room. The nurse outside was just closing the door as they walked up.
"Is she sleeping?" Lorelai asked
"She's in and out." The nurse said, "I wouldn't stay too long."
"We're just going to say good night."
"All right."
Lorelai opened the door and they stepped inside. As she approached the bed, Tristan closed the door and walked over to where Lorelai was standing. His eyes widened when he saw Rory's face. Her bottom lip was covered with a small gauze pad and there were bruises on her cheek and the side of her face.
"It's all my fault." He whispered
"You didn't do anything." Lorelai said,
"I should have been with her Lorelai." He said, "I don't know how she will ever forgive me."
Lorelai squeezed his shoulder,
"She loves you."
The door opened and a nurse looked inside.
"I'm sorry but visiting hours are over."
"All right."
Lorelai leaned down, kissing her daughter's forehead,
"Good night mini me." She whispered
She stepped back, moving towards the door. Tristan moved towards Rory. Taking her hand in his, he raised it to his lips and brushed his lips across the back of her hand. Carefully he set her hand down, then leaned down and kissed her softly on the lips.
"Good night Rory." He whispered, "I love you."
Her eyes fluttered open.
"Love you." She whispered
Her eyes closed slowly and she fell back into a deep sleep.
Tristan slowly backed away from the bed, joining Lorelai at the door. Together they walked out of the room.