A/N: I'm sorry to say that this chapter involves none other than Summer,
Tristan's ex-girlfriend from season one. Unfortunately for me, I missed
the few episodes during season one to which she was guest starring, so I
have no knowledge of her character. From reading the transcripts I assume
that she is snotty and kind of bitchy? (correct me if I'm wrong please!) I
was also unable to find (in the transcripts and info) what Summer's last
name is supposed to be, so I have been forced to make one up! (which I hate
doing b/c I don't want to make someone angry!) So if you do know of her
real last name please inform me and I will speedily correct it! Thanks!
P.S. Thank you so much to my girl Priya! (Indianspice) If it weren't for her constant nagging, I mean encouragement,(::grins innocently::) I would probably have given up on this story. That's what lack of inspiration does to a person, but I'm back! I know its been months.everyone has probably forgotten what this story is about. Hell, I forgot most of it! Anyway, enjoy!
***
"No mother I will not teepee Kirk's house with you!" Rory exclaims agitated at her mother's undying persistence.
"Please please please Rory! You're my favorite child!" Lorelei replies tugging at her daughter's sleeve. Rory gives her an indignant look.
"I'm your only child, Mother." Lorelei begins to speak but no words tumble from her normally overexcited mouth. She blinks and silence suddenly flares up between the two. Had there not been any other patrons chatting in Luke's diner this fine Monday morning, crickets could probably be heard chirping in the background. Rory's lips suddenly crack into a broad grin.
"Looks like I finally got the best of Lorelei Gilmore! Look everyone I outwitted Lorelei!" Rory yells and points at her mother. Lorelei merely growls at her daughter, who continues to point and laugh. Suddenly Lorelei whips her hand forward, grabbing her daughter's finger. This abruptly stops Rory's laughter.
"Uh, Mom, what are you doing?" Rory asks as she attempts to release her finger by trying to tug it from her grip; it doesn't budge. Rory groans realizing her mother's evil intentions.
"You're not getting this back missy. Not until you fulfil my two request." she lets her sentence trail off as she grins evilly at her daughter. Rory's eyes narrow.
"Whatever your scheming brain is concocting, the answer is no," Rory explains, still trying to pull her finger free. For some reason, Lorelei seems to have a death grip on her poor index finger.
"Well you're not going anywhere. Not until you announce to everyone in this here diner that Lorelei Gilmore is the Queen of witty banter and that Rory Gilmore is merely second to her greatness." Rory's eyes narrow dangerously; Lorelei merely smirks in return. Huffing, Rory clears her throat.
"Uh, attention everyone. Sorry, but it seems I was mistaken. Lorelei Gilmore is the Queen of witty banter," Rory exclaims loudly. Lorelei suddenly tugs hard on her finger, causing Rory to yelp out an "ow". Sighing she continues. "Oh yeah and Rory Gilmore is second to her greatness." She gives her daughter a satisfied nod, but does not release her helpless finger.
"Mom, my finger.if you will give it back to me." Lorelei shakes her head.
"Uh uh missy, not until you fulfil my final request." Rory growls under her breath.
"What is it now?"
"Simple. Get me more coffee." Lorelei hands her the coffee cup with a sly grin. Rory begins to stand but suddenly she realizes something; instantly a wide, satisfied grin appears on her lips.
"Mom, you do realize you have to let go of my finger for me to actually go get the coffee for you." Lorelei's face pales causing Rory to burst into laughter.
"Stop that horrendous noise this instant!" yells a loud male voice from behind them. Both turn, giving Luke angry looks. He ignores them.
"You'll scare the customers away. I'm surprised you haven't already," he explains, wiping down the counter top. Rory and Lorelei exchange a look.
"Luke, do you realize that the people of this town, in no way shape or form, could possibly be scared away from this diner. There are so many odd characters floating around here that the only thing that could frighten them enough to leave would be someone semi-normal?" Lorelei explains quickly, giving him a skeptical look.
"Yeah maybe we should send for Jess." Rory begins with a grin but is quickly cut off by the look of utter annoyance on Luke's face. Realizing she still has her daughter's finger in a death grip, Lorelei quickly releases it and retrieves her coffee cup from her daughter. "Never-mind, I'll get it myself. How can I pass up the opportunity to annoy Lukey?" Lorelei exclaims with an evil grin; she quickly scampers to the counter. Rory looks at her in disbelief. Shaking her head she quickly gathers her things.
"See you mom. Bye Luke," she says as she passes them on the way out the door. Both give her a short wave; too engrossed in their mindless chatter to give her a proper goodbye. For some odd reason though, Rory looks through the door window with a smile. Seeing the grins on both their faces instantly makes her day seem brighter, and that love really is in the air.
Suddenly at the thought of love, Rory's mind replays the memory of Tristan and her kissing in the confessional. Immediately, she can feel her skin begin to hum and tingly sensations run up and down her spine. The memory is so vivid that she licks her lips as the flavor of Tristan returns to her mouth. When she accidentally kicks a rock her mind suddenly snaps back to reality, a feeling of self-disgust settling in the pit of her stomach.
*Why did Tristan come to mind when I began thinking about love?* she asks herself in confusion. The memory still on her mind, she gently shakes her head to rid completely of it, for the moment. She quickly reaches her bus stop and sits down on the bench.
Instead of taking out her novel to read, as she normally does, Rory sits on the bench in revelry, debating a silent battle in her mind. *Yeah, Tristan and I have shared a couple of kisses. And I will admit they were the most amazing kisses of my life, but that doesn't really mean anything. I don't have a shred of feeling for the guy. But then again, why do I keep thinking about him so much? And just now, when I saw Luke and Mom making eyes at each other (again), why did he come to mind?* She again shakes her head.
"Rory, you think too much," she reprimands herself in disdain. Glancing at her watch she lets out an aggravated sigh. As usual, the bus is running late, forcing her to remain on the bench in solitude, only with her thoughts to entertain herself. Unable to help it, her mind again wanders back to Tristan.
*Tristan*. At the thought of his very name her stomach flip-flops, leaving her with an uneasy feeling. *What if I'm looking at this all wrong? Since I first arrived at Chilton I've always seen him as a rich jerk with nothing better to do than call me names and flirtatiously make advances on me. But what now? He's changed, in some way, and I suddenly find his persistent charm to be somewhat.appealing. Could it be that I am attracted to him?* She is suddenly left at that last thought, though, because the bus doors were swinging upon and a whoosh of air comes rushing across her face. Sighing, she tries her best to push all thoughts of him from her mind.
***
STUPID BUS! Rory thinks to herself in aggravation as she makes her way through Chilton's empty hallways. The bell had wrung before she had even gotten to the ancient school, and now is she not only late, but she has a coffee stain plastered permanently upon her plaid skirt. She swiftly turns the corner, only to run smack into a broad chest. She bounces back, trying her best to catch her footing. She hears a curse from the direction of the person she ran in to.
"Mary would you watch where you're going! You got that damn coffee on my coat," Tristan growls angrily while he licks his finger and begins to rub furiously at the spot on his collar. Inwardly she groans. Can this day possibly get any worse? she wonders to herself in dread. Suddenly the angry Tristan turns to her with his brows furrowed. Rory steps back, frightened by his intense expression.
"Thanks a lot Rory," he says emphasizing on her name as if it hurt to say it. Slowly he advances on her, taking slow, deliberate steps, until he's merely inches from her body. He slowly lowers his head to match her height, and he stares ruthlessly into her eyes. With his body in such a close proximity, Rory's thoughts instantly become jumbled and she hasn't the proper motives to move away from his seemingly magnetic form. He opens his mouth, as if he is about to speak, but instead he breathes out his hot, minty breath, hitting her square in the face. She blinks at the unexpected whoosh of air, and her stomach quickly curls into nervous knots.
"You know Rory," he begins, "yesterday I would have said that I had no regrets. I would have said that I didn't regret kissing you in the janitor's closet, or in the confessional; I would have even said I enjoyed those brief moments with you. But last night I began to think." Rory suddenly cuts in with an exaggerated gasp.
"Tristan you were 'thinking'? Oh no this can't be good," she says with a smirk. His eyes darken in anger, and his face abruptly flashes a hurt expression. Without thinking he grabs her shoulders and jerks her so close to his face that he can smell her sweet scent swirling into his senses, confusing his better judgement. He ignores the tingling that suddenly creeps up his arms. She gives him a surprised look.
"Don't interrupt me," he snaps. He then continues, "Last night when I was lying in bed I started to think about you. You and me, more precisely. I've kissed you twice, and both times you kissed me back. I'll admit this much to you, that those two kisses were the most amazing experiences of my life. But it's you, that girl I taunt mercilessly. Why do I call you Mary? It's because."he suddenly trails off, averting his gaze from hers. Her stomach continues to knot as the sudden urge to take his face in her hands and force him to finish that sentence. Knowing deep in her heart how he feels for her, she wants nothing more than to hear the words.
"Tristan, what is it?" she asks softly. Slowly she cups her hand under his chin, forcing him to look back at her. When their eyes meet, she is astonished to find hurt and sadness in his eyes- the same eyes of a young boy who got dumped by his first crush. Slowly, he steps away from her, releasing her shoulders from his grip, and brushing her hand away from his face.
"I can't do this Rory. Not anymore. Not with you." he trails off as he quickly steps away and jogs down the hall and around the corner. She stares after him, completely stunned. Her stomach instantly drops as a sharp wave of emptiness fills her heart. She wraps her arms around herself, trying to keep the invisible cold from seeping into her heart, and hurting her even more than his words already had.
***
She has been watching him all day, studying his every move, analyzing him thoroughly. Their pained encounter earlier in the day has left Rory with an ache so deep it feels as if it were tearing right through her very soul. Even to this moment, as her eyes rest upon his perfect form eating alone outside the cafeteria, the ache throbs and expands. Wanting, no needing, the pain to go away she follows her mothers own advice for once and "seizes the moment". *Carpe diem* she thinks to herself in reassurance. Standing from her table she strides out of the cafeteria right towards him. Though he does not look up from his food, she knows he can sense her approaching him, yet he continues to ignore her completely.
Rory perches herself beside him, trying her best to ignore the sting her heart receives under his cold gaze. Never has she seen someone look so determined to push people away, to be alone. She quickly glances at him only to see his ever-present grim expression. Biting her lip she decides to lesson the tension with easy conversation.
"How come you come out here every day? I thought you'd want to eat lunch with your friends?" She asks keeping a light tone. Slowly he turns to look at her, meeting her sparkling eyes with his blank blue ones.
"I want to be left alone, that's why," he snaps at her in an irritated voice. She blinks at him, completely taken aback by the harshness of his remark. With the surprise still evident in her eyes she gives him a short nod.
"Oh, well I guess I'll leave you to yourself, though I was hoping we could talk. 'Guess not. See you around," she says trying her best not to sounds more hurt. She begins to walk away when suddenly she hears him growl.
"Why are you determined to do this Rory? We've already discussed our situation so I see no further need for us to converse. So stop trying so hard!" he exclaims loudly.
This unsuspected outburst catches her off guard, and now the shock has her stunned and a total loss for words. *What happened to him?!* she asks herself desperately. *When did he become so mean?* As his words replay over and over in her mind, their anger sinks deeper and deeper into her already slowly breaking heart. Her blue eyes suddenly dim as the pain shooting through her reaches them in the form of glistening tears. She quickly recovers her voice.
"How can you say that Tristan? You and I were becoming close or so I thought. Maybe I was mistaken that we had a connection. I must have, because no one with a connection like that could be so selfish." The last words stumble from her mouth before she even thinks of their true meaning. His eyes immediately flash in anger.
"Selfish? *I'm* selfish? My bad, I guess I'm just another rich boy with an over inflated ego and a pocket full of cash. How wrong you are Rory, how wrong you are. Life's a bitch, and I learned that a long time ago. Things never work out the way you want them to and you're forced to except it either way. I've excepted that you and I can never be close. So why can't you?" Instantly Tristan brushes past her, giving her no time to respond, and too much time to think.
***
Rory lets out an early morning moan. Not only had her mother deliberately woken her up at 4:30 in the morning so they can "talk about their problems", now the sun is streaming brightly into her room from her open window. Rory yawns while her mother continues to nonchalantly play with her hair. Rory glances at the clock and moans again.
"I don't want to go back to hell. I hate it there." Lorelei gives her hair a playful tug. "Well hon, you have to go. Besides, it was you who agreed to going to that school," Lorelei explains while she stands to her feet. She instantly attacks her daughter's feet, tickling them with no remorse. Rory squeals in protest.
"Mom!" she exclaims through a bout of giggles. "Stop already!" A sudden cool breeze blows into the room, bringing with it the scent of summer. Suddenly, Rory sneezes violently.
"Ugh," she murmurs as she sniffles. Lorelei stops attempting to tickle Rory's feet and looks to her.
"You okay kid? You don't look so good."she asks suspiciously eyeing her daughter as if she had strategically planned the symptoms of an oncoming cold. Rory gives her a look.
"Well no duh. I wasn't kidding when I said I didn't want to go to school. I have an unbearable headache right now," she says as she flings backward on to her pillow. Lorelei sits on her bed, gently placing her hand on Rory's forehead. She immediately whips her hand away, much to Rory's surprise.
"My god girl you're as hot as fire! Call the ambulance; no call the fire department!" she exclaims loudly, trying to keep a straight face. Rory begins to roll her eyes but stops midway as the ache in her head suddenly increases. Noticing her daughter flinch in pain, Lorelei frowns.
"No seriously Rory, I think you have a fever. Actually, I know you have a fever. Mothers can sense these things you know. So there's no need for a thermometer.you're staying home from hell!" she exclaims with a clap of her hands. Rory tries her best not to look too excited, and instead she gently nods her head and rolls on her side.
"Aw poor baby. I'm sorry I have to leave you today. I wish that moms got to stay home from work when the kid gets to stay home from school, but we don't have that luxury. But don't worry, I'll see you tonight when we go to dinner," she says in cheerful sarcasm. Rory sniffles from beneath the covers, which she has neatly snug herself beneath. Gently kissing the mound under the blanket that is Rory's head, Lorelei stands to her feet and walks to the door. She takes one glance back before walking out.
Upon hearing the door shut, the one thought that runs through Rory's mind is that she is lucky to have a day to completely avoid Tristan. *I don't think I could bare to see him look at me that way any longer* she thinks to herself
***
"Rory I'm so sorry that I had to drag you here tonight. But Emily insists that if you're not barfing then you should come for tonight's 'special dinner'; whatever that means I don't know," Lorelei says suspiciously. Sighing, and hoping with all hope that this "special dinner" does not somehow involve Tristan, she quickly rings the doorbell before her mother can, since she always gets carried away. Lorelei begins to hum impatiently to herself, rocking back and forth on her heels like a child.
"Mom settle down," Rory whispers as the door suddenly swings open. Instead of Emily answering the door, though, its their maid dressed in a fine silk blouse and neatly pressed pants. Surprised at the classy outfit, Rory and Lorelei exchange curious glances before entering the house.
"Right this way please," the maid says politely, leading them towards the parlor to mingle before dinner. As the Gilmores begin to enter Rory suddenly stops dead in her tracks, her blue eyes locked upon the pretty brunette seated on the couch. The brunette looks to her with a solemn, bored expression. The man seated next to the brunette abruptly stands to his feet upon their arrival. With a gleaming grin he steps towards Lorelei, his eyes distractedly gazing up and down her form. Recovering quickly, he reaches out his hand.
"Well hello! You must be the famous Lorelei Gilmore," he exclaims. Lorelei takes his hand; in confusion she gives it a short shake. Without giving her a chance to respond he turns his hand to Rory.
"And you must be Rory! The headmaster at Chilton has told me what a fine student you are," he says with a welcoming twinkle in his eye.
"Nice to meet you," Rory says in that polite voice she always uses when meeting new people. Lorelei holds back on the impulse to outright gag. From the corner of her eye Lorelei notices the young brunette standing to her feet, never taking her eyes off Rory. Something about her eyes sends chills down her spine. *Geesh kids these days are always out for blood!* she thinks as she continues to eye the peculiar girl.
The brunette quickly steps up to the man. He swings around, bringing his arm lovingly around her shoulders, the grin still plastered on his face.
"And this is my daughter, Summer," he explains, his grin unwavering. Rory gives Summer a small, quick nod unable to formulate words considering that in an instant her mouth has gone completely dry. Suddenly, she turns to her mother in desperation.
"Oh! Mom, I forgot the cell in the car. Can you help me come find it?" she exclaims grabbing her by the sleeve and tugging her away from the two. The two exit through the doors, now standing on the dimly lit porch. Lorelei gives her daughter a confused look.
"Well that was subtle," Lorelei says immediately. "What's got you so peeved Missy?"
"That girl in there is Tristan's old girlfriend," she explains bluntly. Lorelei's eyes widen a bit in understanding. Rory continues.
"And at school, Tristan told me that it's killing him to be around me and that he can't do it anymore." Lorelei purses her lips.
"Well, I guess you're still sick so we can't stay tonight," Lorelei says and then stands abruptly. Rory shakes her head.
"No Mom, Grandma will never by it. Plus you'll be getting yourself into unnecessary trouble," she explain also standing to her feet. Her mother suddenly gives her a look.
"Oh pa-lease, my dear, dear Rory. Since when do you think I care if I upset or disappoint my mother? I've been doing it all my life so there's no reason to stop now," she says as they reenter the home.
As the door begins to shut behind them, to their surprise, it suddenly swings back open and Tristan steps through the doorway. Upon immediately locking eyes with Rory he pauses in mid step. Swallowing the lump that had instantly appeared in his throat he closes it behind him and gives them a quick nod.
"Yo Tristan, what are you doing here?" Lorelei asks, seemingly oblivious to the tension between the two teens.
"Mr. Gilmore invited me. He said that tonight he would be discussing business matters and that he wanted me to see it," he explains in a rush, eager to quickly get as far from Rory's pained face as possible. "I better go find him," he continues before shuffling off down the hall. Lorelei immediately sets out after him, dragging Rory along.
"Mom, what are you doing?" Rory asks impatiently.
"You said she is his ex-girlfriend, right? Well, I want to be there when he realizes she's here!"
Lorelei exclaims sadistically with a short hop towards the dining room. Rory rolls her eyes and follows, somewhat nervously.
***
::gasps:: Cliffhanger? Since when do I do cliffhangers? Since now! Haha! Yes, this chapter will actually pick up and conclude itself in chapter eight. ::sighs:: I first have to write it though.
P.S. Thank you so much to my girl Priya! (Indianspice) If it weren't for her constant nagging, I mean encouragement,(::grins innocently::) I would probably have given up on this story. That's what lack of inspiration does to a person, but I'm back! I know its been months.everyone has probably forgotten what this story is about. Hell, I forgot most of it! Anyway, enjoy!
***
"No mother I will not teepee Kirk's house with you!" Rory exclaims agitated at her mother's undying persistence.
"Please please please Rory! You're my favorite child!" Lorelei replies tugging at her daughter's sleeve. Rory gives her an indignant look.
"I'm your only child, Mother." Lorelei begins to speak but no words tumble from her normally overexcited mouth. She blinks and silence suddenly flares up between the two. Had there not been any other patrons chatting in Luke's diner this fine Monday morning, crickets could probably be heard chirping in the background. Rory's lips suddenly crack into a broad grin.
"Looks like I finally got the best of Lorelei Gilmore! Look everyone I outwitted Lorelei!" Rory yells and points at her mother. Lorelei merely growls at her daughter, who continues to point and laugh. Suddenly Lorelei whips her hand forward, grabbing her daughter's finger. This abruptly stops Rory's laughter.
"Uh, Mom, what are you doing?" Rory asks as she attempts to release her finger by trying to tug it from her grip; it doesn't budge. Rory groans realizing her mother's evil intentions.
"You're not getting this back missy. Not until you fulfil my two request." she lets her sentence trail off as she grins evilly at her daughter. Rory's eyes narrow.
"Whatever your scheming brain is concocting, the answer is no," Rory explains, still trying to pull her finger free. For some reason, Lorelei seems to have a death grip on her poor index finger.
"Well you're not going anywhere. Not until you announce to everyone in this here diner that Lorelei Gilmore is the Queen of witty banter and that Rory Gilmore is merely second to her greatness." Rory's eyes narrow dangerously; Lorelei merely smirks in return. Huffing, Rory clears her throat.
"Uh, attention everyone. Sorry, but it seems I was mistaken. Lorelei Gilmore is the Queen of witty banter," Rory exclaims loudly. Lorelei suddenly tugs hard on her finger, causing Rory to yelp out an "ow". Sighing she continues. "Oh yeah and Rory Gilmore is second to her greatness." She gives her daughter a satisfied nod, but does not release her helpless finger.
"Mom, my finger.if you will give it back to me." Lorelei shakes her head.
"Uh uh missy, not until you fulfil my final request." Rory growls under her breath.
"What is it now?"
"Simple. Get me more coffee." Lorelei hands her the coffee cup with a sly grin. Rory begins to stand but suddenly she realizes something; instantly a wide, satisfied grin appears on her lips.
"Mom, you do realize you have to let go of my finger for me to actually go get the coffee for you." Lorelei's face pales causing Rory to burst into laughter.
"Stop that horrendous noise this instant!" yells a loud male voice from behind them. Both turn, giving Luke angry looks. He ignores them.
"You'll scare the customers away. I'm surprised you haven't already," he explains, wiping down the counter top. Rory and Lorelei exchange a look.
"Luke, do you realize that the people of this town, in no way shape or form, could possibly be scared away from this diner. There are so many odd characters floating around here that the only thing that could frighten them enough to leave would be someone semi-normal?" Lorelei explains quickly, giving him a skeptical look.
"Yeah maybe we should send for Jess." Rory begins with a grin but is quickly cut off by the look of utter annoyance on Luke's face. Realizing she still has her daughter's finger in a death grip, Lorelei quickly releases it and retrieves her coffee cup from her daughter. "Never-mind, I'll get it myself. How can I pass up the opportunity to annoy Lukey?" Lorelei exclaims with an evil grin; she quickly scampers to the counter. Rory looks at her in disbelief. Shaking her head she quickly gathers her things.
"See you mom. Bye Luke," she says as she passes them on the way out the door. Both give her a short wave; too engrossed in their mindless chatter to give her a proper goodbye. For some odd reason though, Rory looks through the door window with a smile. Seeing the grins on both their faces instantly makes her day seem brighter, and that love really is in the air.
Suddenly at the thought of love, Rory's mind replays the memory of Tristan and her kissing in the confessional. Immediately, she can feel her skin begin to hum and tingly sensations run up and down her spine. The memory is so vivid that she licks her lips as the flavor of Tristan returns to her mouth. When she accidentally kicks a rock her mind suddenly snaps back to reality, a feeling of self-disgust settling in the pit of her stomach.
*Why did Tristan come to mind when I began thinking about love?* she asks herself in confusion. The memory still on her mind, she gently shakes her head to rid completely of it, for the moment. She quickly reaches her bus stop and sits down on the bench.
Instead of taking out her novel to read, as she normally does, Rory sits on the bench in revelry, debating a silent battle in her mind. *Yeah, Tristan and I have shared a couple of kisses. And I will admit they were the most amazing kisses of my life, but that doesn't really mean anything. I don't have a shred of feeling for the guy. But then again, why do I keep thinking about him so much? And just now, when I saw Luke and Mom making eyes at each other (again), why did he come to mind?* She again shakes her head.
"Rory, you think too much," she reprimands herself in disdain. Glancing at her watch she lets out an aggravated sigh. As usual, the bus is running late, forcing her to remain on the bench in solitude, only with her thoughts to entertain herself. Unable to help it, her mind again wanders back to Tristan.
*Tristan*. At the thought of his very name her stomach flip-flops, leaving her with an uneasy feeling. *What if I'm looking at this all wrong? Since I first arrived at Chilton I've always seen him as a rich jerk with nothing better to do than call me names and flirtatiously make advances on me. But what now? He's changed, in some way, and I suddenly find his persistent charm to be somewhat.appealing. Could it be that I am attracted to him?* She is suddenly left at that last thought, though, because the bus doors were swinging upon and a whoosh of air comes rushing across her face. Sighing, she tries her best to push all thoughts of him from her mind.
***
STUPID BUS! Rory thinks to herself in aggravation as she makes her way through Chilton's empty hallways. The bell had wrung before she had even gotten to the ancient school, and now is she not only late, but she has a coffee stain plastered permanently upon her plaid skirt. She swiftly turns the corner, only to run smack into a broad chest. She bounces back, trying her best to catch her footing. She hears a curse from the direction of the person she ran in to.
"Mary would you watch where you're going! You got that damn coffee on my coat," Tristan growls angrily while he licks his finger and begins to rub furiously at the spot on his collar. Inwardly she groans. Can this day possibly get any worse? she wonders to herself in dread. Suddenly the angry Tristan turns to her with his brows furrowed. Rory steps back, frightened by his intense expression.
"Thanks a lot Rory," he says emphasizing on her name as if it hurt to say it. Slowly he advances on her, taking slow, deliberate steps, until he's merely inches from her body. He slowly lowers his head to match her height, and he stares ruthlessly into her eyes. With his body in such a close proximity, Rory's thoughts instantly become jumbled and she hasn't the proper motives to move away from his seemingly magnetic form. He opens his mouth, as if he is about to speak, but instead he breathes out his hot, minty breath, hitting her square in the face. She blinks at the unexpected whoosh of air, and her stomach quickly curls into nervous knots.
"You know Rory," he begins, "yesterday I would have said that I had no regrets. I would have said that I didn't regret kissing you in the janitor's closet, or in the confessional; I would have even said I enjoyed those brief moments with you. But last night I began to think." Rory suddenly cuts in with an exaggerated gasp.
"Tristan you were 'thinking'? Oh no this can't be good," she says with a smirk. His eyes darken in anger, and his face abruptly flashes a hurt expression. Without thinking he grabs her shoulders and jerks her so close to his face that he can smell her sweet scent swirling into his senses, confusing his better judgement. He ignores the tingling that suddenly creeps up his arms. She gives him a surprised look.
"Don't interrupt me," he snaps. He then continues, "Last night when I was lying in bed I started to think about you. You and me, more precisely. I've kissed you twice, and both times you kissed me back. I'll admit this much to you, that those two kisses were the most amazing experiences of my life. But it's you, that girl I taunt mercilessly. Why do I call you Mary? It's because."he suddenly trails off, averting his gaze from hers. Her stomach continues to knot as the sudden urge to take his face in her hands and force him to finish that sentence. Knowing deep in her heart how he feels for her, she wants nothing more than to hear the words.
"Tristan, what is it?" she asks softly. Slowly she cups her hand under his chin, forcing him to look back at her. When their eyes meet, she is astonished to find hurt and sadness in his eyes- the same eyes of a young boy who got dumped by his first crush. Slowly, he steps away from her, releasing her shoulders from his grip, and brushing her hand away from his face.
"I can't do this Rory. Not anymore. Not with you." he trails off as he quickly steps away and jogs down the hall and around the corner. She stares after him, completely stunned. Her stomach instantly drops as a sharp wave of emptiness fills her heart. She wraps her arms around herself, trying to keep the invisible cold from seeping into her heart, and hurting her even more than his words already had.
***
She has been watching him all day, studying his every move, analyzing him thoroughly. Their pained encounter earlier in the day has left Rory with an ache so deep it feels as if it were tearing right through her very soul. Even to this moment, as her eyes rest upon his perfect form eating alone outside the cafeteria, the ache throbs and expands. Wanting, no needing, the pain to go away she follows her mothers own advice for once and "seizes the moment". *Carpe diem* she thinks to herself in reassurance. Standing from her table she strides out of the cafeteria right towards him. Though he does not look up from his food, she knows he can sense her approaching him, yet he continues to ignore her completely.
Rory perches herself beside him, trying her best to ignore the sting her heart receives under his cold gaze. Never has she seen someone look so determined to push people away, to be alone. She quickly glances at him only to see his ever-present grim expression. Biting her lip she decides to lesson the tension with easy conversation.
"How come you come out here every day? I thought you'd want to eat lunch with your friends?" She asks keeping a light tone. Slowly he turns to look at her, meeting her sparkling eyes with his blank blue ones.
"I want to be left alone, that's why," he snaps at her in an irritated voice. She blinks at him, completely taken aback by the harshness of his remark. With the surprise still evident in her eyes she gives him a short nod.
"Oh, well I guess I'll leave you to yourself, though I was hoping we could talk. 'Guess not. See you around," she says trying her best not to sounds more hurt. She begins to walk away when suddenly she hears him growl.
"Why are you determined to do this Rory? We've already discussed our situation so I see no further need for us to converse. So stop trying so hard!" he exclaims loudly.
This unsuspected outburst catches her off guard, and now the shock has her stunned and a total loss for words. *What happened to him?!* she asks herself desperately. *When did he become so mean?* As his words replay over and over in her mind, their anger sinks deeper and deeper into her already slowly breaking heart. Her blue eyes suddenly dim as the pain shooting through her reaches them in the form of glistening tears. She quickly recovers her voice.
"How can you say that Tristan? You and I were becoming close or so I thought. Maybe I was mistaken that we had a connection. I must have, because no one with a connection like that could be so selfish." The last words stumble from her mouth before she even thinks of their true meaning. His eyes immediately flash in anger.
"Selfish? *I'm* selfish? My bad, I guess I'm just another rich boy with an over inflated ego and a pocket full of cash. How wrong you are Rory, how wrong you are. Life's a bitch, and I learned that a long time ago. Things never work out the way you want them to and you're forced to except it either way. I've excepted that you and I can never be close. So why can't you?" Instantly Tristan brushes past her, giving her no time to respond, and too much time to think.
***
Rory lets out an early morning moan. Not only had her mother deliberately woken her up at 4:30 in the morning so they can "talk about their problems", now the sun is streaming brightly into her room from her open window. Rory yawns while her mother continues to nonchalantly play with her hair. Rory glances at the clock and moans again.
"I don't want to go back to hell. I hate it there." Lorelei gives her hair a playful tug. "Well hon, you have to go. Besides, it was you who agreed to going to that school," Lorelei explains while she stands to her feet. She instantly attacks her daughter's feet, tickling them with no remorse. Rory squeals in protest.
"Mom!" she exclaims through a bout of giggles. "Stop already!" A sudden cool breeze blows into the room, bringing with it the scent of summer. Suddenly, Rory sneezes violently.
"Ugh," she murmurs as she sniffles. Lorelei stops attempting to tickle Rory's feet and looks to her.
"You okay kid? You don't look so good."she asks suspiciously eyeing her daughter as if she had strategically planned the symptoms of an oncoming cold. Rory gives her a look.
"Well no duh. I wasn't kidding when I said I didn't want to go to school. I have an unbearable headache right now," she says as she flings backward on to her pillow. Lorelei sits on her bed, gently placing her hand on Rory's forehead. She immediately whips her hand away, much to Rory's surprise.
"My god girl you're as hot as fire! Call the ambulance; no call the fire department!" she exclaims loudly, trying to keep a straight face. Rory begins to roll her eyes but stops midway as the ache in her head suddenly increases. Noticing her daughter flinch in pain, Lorelei frowns.
"No seriously Rory, I think you have a fever. Actually, I know you have a fever. Mothers can sense these things you know. So there's no need for a thermometer.you're staying home from hell!" she exclaims with a clap of her hands. Rory tries her best not to look too excited, and instead she gently nods her head and rolls on her side.
"Aw poor baby. I'm sorry I have to leave you today. I wish that moms got to stay home from work when the kid gets to stay home from school, but we don't have that luxury. But don't worry, I'll see you tonight when we go to dinner," she says in cheerful sarcasm. Rory sniffles from beneath the covers, which she has neatly snug herself beneath. Gently kissing the mound under the blanket that is Rory's head, Lorelei stands to her feet and walks to the door. She takes one glance back before walking out.
Upon hearing the door shut, the one thought that runs through Rory's mind is that she is lucky to have a day to completely avoid Tristan. *I don't think I could bare to see him look at me that way any longer* she thinks to herself
***
"Rory I'm so sorry that I had to drag you here tonight. But Emily insists that if you're not barfing then you should come for tonight's 'special dinner'; whatever that means I don't know," Lorelei says suspiciously. Sighing, and hoping with all hope that this "special dinner" does not somehow involve Tristan, she quickly rings the doorbell before her mother can, since she always gets carried away. Lorelei begins to hum impatiently to herself, rocking back and forth on her heels like a child.
"Mom settle down," Rory whispers as the door suddenly swings open. Instead of Emily answering the door, though, its their maid dressed in a fine silk blouse and neatly pressed pants. Surprised at the classy outfit, Rory and Lorelei exchange curious glances before entering the house.
"Right this way please," the maid says politely, leading them towards the parlor to mingle before dinner. As the Gilmores begin to enter Rory suddenly stops dead in her tracks, her blue eyes locked upon the pretty brunette seated on the couch. The brunette looks to her with a solemn, bored expression. The man seated next to the brunette abruptly stands to his feet upon their arrival. With a gleaming grin he steps towards Lorelei, his eyes distractedly gazing up and down her form. Recovering quickly, he reaches out his hand.
"Well hello! You must be the famous Lorelei Gilmore," he exclaims. Lorelei takes his hand; in confusion she gives it a short shake. Without giving her a chance to respond he turns his hand to Rory.
"And you must be Rory! The headmaster at Chilton has told me what a fine student you are," he says with a welcoming twinkle in his eye.
"Nice to meet you," Rory says in that polite voice she always uses when meeting new people. Lorelei holds back on the impulse to outright gag. From the corner of her eye Lorelei notices the young brunette standing to her feet, never taking her eyes off Rory. Something about her eyes sends chills down her spine. *Geesh kids these days are always out for blood!* she thinks as she continues to eye the peculiar girl.
The brunette quickly steps up to the man. He swings around, bringing his arm lovingly around her shoulders, the grin still plastered on his face.
"And this is my daughter, Summer," he explains, his grin unwavering. Rory gives Summer a small, quick nod unable to formulate words considering that in an instant her mouth has gone completely dry. Suddenly, she turns to her mother in desperation.
"Oh! Mom, I forgot the cell in the car. Can you help me come find it?" she exclaims grabbing her by the sleeve and tugging her away from the two. The two exit through the doors, now standing on the dimly lit porch. Lorelei gives her daughter a confused look.
"Well that was subtle," Lorelei says immediately. "What's got you so peeved Missy?"
"That girl in there is Tristan's old girlfriend," she explains bluntly. Lorelei's eyes widen a bit in understanding. Rory continues.
"And at school, Tristan told me that it's killing him to be around me and that he can't do it anymore." Lorelei purses her lips.
"Well, I guess you're still sick so we can't stay tonight," Lorelei says and then stands abruptly. Rory shakes her head.
"No Mom, Grandma will never by it. Plus you'll be getting yourself into unnecessary trouble," she explain also standing to her feet. Her mother suddenly gives her a look.
"Oh pa-lease, my dear, dear Rory. Since when do you think I care if I upset or disappoint my mother? I've been doing it all my life so there's no reason to stop now," she says as they reenter the home.
As the door begins to shut behind them, to their surprise, it suddenly swings back open and Tristan steps through the doorway. Upon immediately locking eyes with Rory he pauses in mid step. Swallowing the lump that had instantly appeared in his throat he closes it behind him and gives them a quick nod.
"Yo Tristan, what are you doing here?" Lorelei asks, seemingly oblivious to the tension between the two teens.
"Mr. Gilmore invited me. He said that tonight he would be discussing business matters and that he wanted me to see it," he explains in a rush, eager to quickly get as far from Rory's pained face as possible. "I better go find him," he continues before shuffling off down the hall. Lorelei immediately sets out after him, dragging Rory along.
"Mom, what are you doing?" Rory asks impatiently.
"You said she is his ex-girlfriend, right? Well, I want to be there when he realizes she's here!"
Lorelei exclaims sadistically with a short hop towards the dining room. Rory rolls her eyes and follows, somewhat nervously.
***
::gasps:: Cliffhanger? Since when do I do cliffhangers? Since now! Haha! Yes, this chapter will actually pick up and conclude itself in chapter eight. ::sighs:: I first have to write it though.