A Kiss, a Blush, a Smirk, a Love
Part 3
Authors note: Sorry I took so long to write this part.I have been heaps busy, and got writers block a few times. Thanks to those who reviewed, and special thanks to Ellie who kept me motivated to write my trory. I hope you all enjoy this next chapter. P.S I may have altered the personalities of Paris and Dean a bit.sorry if I make them out to be too mean, but hey, I'm claiming artistic license!!!
Rory and Dean stood stunned. It was as if each were deer's that had been snared on the road by on-coming headlights. Rory's eyes were wide in shock. She couldn't believe Dean was standing right there, in front of her. She closed her eyes briefly and re-opened them, hoping he was just a dream, a figment of her imagination. He wasn't.
"What are you doing here?" they both asked at the same time.
"Lane told me to meet her here", replied Rory.
"Lane told you to meet her.she told me the same thing.oh". Rory and Dean both realized at the same time what their devious friend had done.
"She set this up! I can't believe it. That little sneak!" Rory flopped down onto the bench in the Gazebo.
"I guess she figured we needed to talk or something", replied Dean.
A look of dread flashed across Rory's face. *Talk.to Dean. About what? It was over, wasn't it?*
Dean watched Rory. He could see she was concentrating hard on whatever it was she was thinking about. He had missed her terribly and still loved her as much as the fateful day he called off their relationship. *I'm such an idiot. How could I have let her go?*
"Rory, don't you think we should talk?"
Rory looked up at Dean, the pleading in his voice apparent. She searched his eyes. In them she saw a desire, a desire for her. Dean moved to sit next to Rory, taking her hand in his own larger one. Rory shivered. His touch was cold. It wasn't warm like.Tristan's. There was no spark, no bolt of electricity that surged through her body.
"Rory, I miss you. Everyday I kick myself over the mistake I made. I never should have broken up with you like that. It hurts so much not to be with you. Rory, I still love you."
Rory looked up to see Dean's face very close to her own. She froze as Dean lowered his lips to her own. His kiss was icy cold. There was no love, just a need, a need she finally realized she didn't want from him.
Dean pulled back from Rory, realizing she wasn't returning his passion. He searched her eyes for a sign that she missed him, that she wanted to be with him, that she loved him. Realizing his search was futile, pain and anger began to take over his body. He dropped her hand, standing up in an attempt to make himself appear stronger, more powerful.
"You still can't say it. You still don't love me, hell, you don't even miss me."
Tears sprung to Rory's eyes at his words as she picked up on the hurt and anger in his voice. "Dean.please."
Dean grabbed Rory's wrist and held it tightly, pulling her up to face him. Rory was terrified. Dean was a lot bigger and stronger than she was and she didn't know if she'd be able to get away if he became even more forceful with her.
"Dean...stop.you're hurting me", Rory stammered as she winced at the pain he was causing. Tears began to fall from her eyes as she looked around to see if there was anyone to help her. The park was deserted.there was no one.
"You know what you are Rory? You're weak. You're a weak, snotty little private school bitch, and you want to know something else.I don't need you, in fact, I'm better off without you." Dean practically snarled as he spoke to her. Then he did something Rory thought was incapable of him. He slapped her, hard against her soft porcelain cheek. He pushed her back down onto the bench.
"Goodbye, Rory". Dean spat out her name like it was some kind of disease. Rory slumped back on the bench and watched him walk away. She felt paralyzed as tears continued to cascade down her cheeks. The side of her face burned from where Dean had hit her. Rory was so confused. She was confused, shocked, scared and hurt. She'd seen a side to Dean she didn't know existed, a side of him she thought couldn't exist.
Rory felt too paralyzed to move. She feared that Dean was still out there, waiting for her. She curled herself up, shivering, crying and preying someone would find her.
Luke's Diner
"Hello Lukey", greeted Lorelai as she walked into the diner.
"If you've come to get coffee, then too bad, you're not having any", replied Luke rather sternly.
"Ohhh, why?"
"Because one, you called me 'Lukey', and two, you drink too much".
"Come on Luke. You're not going to honestly deny me my coffee are you?"
"Yep"
"But you know I can't live without it. It's my life support system. You wouldn't want me to die would you? You'd feel guilty for the rest of your life". Lorelai said as she looked up innocently at Luke, holding her mug up expectantly. He gave in, unable to stand the puppy dog eyes look she was giving him.
"No more 'Lukey'", he warned.
"Ok!" Lorelai chirped happily, "Hey, have you seen Mini Me?"
"Who?"
"Rory".
"Ah, no.come to think of it, I haven't seen her since this morning."
"That's weird, we always meet here at this time."
"Well. Maybe she's caught up with schoolwork at home."
"Mmm, maybe". Lorelai couldn't help but feel a little worried. It wasn't like Rory to be late for coffee at Luke's. She pulled out the mobile and phoned home. After five minutes of listening to the ringing tone, she gave up, realizing she either wasn't there or wasn't answering. *Maybe she's on her way.*
Luke watched as Lorelai's face became more worried. He reached out to hold her hand. "Not at home?" Lorelai shook her head, "Well then she's probably on her way here then". Lorelai tried to give him a faint smile that turned out to be more like a frown.
"Yeah, she'll probably walk through that door right now". Lorelai turned to the door, expecting Rory to walk in, wishing she'd walk in and tell her all about her day at Hell. When she didn't, Lorelai became even more worried. She had the distinct feeling that something was wrong. She turned to Luke, the worried and concerned look even more evident on her face.
"Have you tried her pager?"
"Hey, good idea!" Lorelai immediately paged Rory. After ten minutes with no return message Lorelai had become frantic. She began to pace up and down the now empty diner, trying to recall if Rory had said anything about not meeting her, or that she had to stay back at Chilton. Luke came around from behind the counter.
"Lorelai stop, you're going to burn a hole into my floor with all that pacing". Lorelai turned to Luke. She had reached panic mode and tears began to stream down her face.
"Something's wrong.something's happened.Rory just doesn't disappear like this."
Luke's heart was breaking. He couldn't bear to see her this way. He pulled her into his arms, whispering assuring words in her ear. Lorelai relaxed in his arms and buried her face in his shoulder. She began to calm down and remembered how to breathe. She raised her eyes to meet his. They were soft, full of love, caring and concern. Finally, she knew what Sookie, Rory and the rest of Stars Hollow had been telling her for so long. Luke was in love with her, and she was in love with him. Slowly, she reached up to kiss him.
To say Luke was shocked is an understatement. Slowly he regained his composure, kissing her back. It was full of passion and relief. The feelings both had kept bottled up for each other came flooding out in that one kiss. However, it wasn't to last for long. Just then the door opened and in walked Miss Patty and Taylor Doose. Luke and Lorelai jumped away from each other to meet the shocked and happy faces watching them. Miss Patty started to jump up and down in excitement. She flew out the door just as quickly as she had come in, eager to start spreading the news. Taylor walked up to the flustered pair, shaking Luke's hand.
"It's about time you two woke up and got together".
"Taylor." Luke started.
"This day shall go down in Stars Hollow history, I'll tell you that right now".
"Taylor."
"So when is the wedding?"
"Taylor", Luke said frustratingly, "Rory is missing".
Taylor was about to go on when Luke's words sunk in, "Missing! What do you mean missing?"
"She was supposed to meet me here half an hour ago. She's not at home and she isn't answering her pager", Lorelai informed him.
"Well, don't just stand there, we have to organize search parties!" said Taylor as he rushed out the door. Lorelai was about to follow him when Luke pulled her back.
"You should go home. Wait for her there, I'll go look for her." Lorelai was about to protest, "You are in no state to look for her Lorelai. You're better of at home incase she goes back there", Luke said sternly. Lorelai nodded reluctantly. She knew he was right, she would be better off at home. They headed out the door, both hoping that Rory was alright.
The Gazebo
Darkness was setting in as Luke walked through the park in the center of Stars Hollow. His eyes were darting furiously as he searched for Rory. He hoped she was safe. He painted a pretty picture in his head of Rory curled up in the library, so absorbed in her book that she hadn't realized what time it was. It would be so like her to do that. But she wasn't there, Luke had checked five times. His thoughts turned to Lorelai. She was so distraught with fear. All he wanted to do was return Rory to her and hold them both in his arms. He had always been apart of their lives and was constantly looking out for them both, helping them whenever and wherever he could. He felt like he was apart of their little family and had always treated Rory like his own daughter.and always would.
Luke started to head towards the Gazebo, the only place he had yet to look. As he neared closer he thought he could see a small bundle, or form curled up on the bench. His heart skipped a beat as he rushed over, hoping against hope that it was Rory.
Rory heard footsteps coming up the stairs to the gazebo. She cowered back on the bench, fearing it may have been Dean coming back to finish what he had started.
"Rory.Rory is that you? Oh thank god you're safe." It was Luke. Rory relaxed with relief as Luke sat down and pulled her into his arms. Rory clung onto him for dear life as another wave of tears fell from her eyes in relief. She felt safe, and was so glad that Luke had found her.
"Come on, I'll take you home to your mom. She's been so worried about you." Rory nodded and was grateful when Luke picked her up to carry her, she really didn't think she would be able to walk, the paralyzed sensation still coursing through her entire being.
Gilmore House
Lorelai stood staring out the window overlooking the front yard. She was shivering, covered from head to toe in tiny goose bumps. Silent tears fell from her eyes, staining her cheeks. Her over-active imagination kept coming up with horrible scenarios that could have happened to her precious daughter, causing her tears to fall even heavier. All she wanted was to have Rory back, safe in her arms.
"God, I know I've never really acknowledged you in the past, and I admit that I have made fun of you and the whole churchy religious thing, but if you could please, please, just return my daughter to me safe and sound, I swear I will never ask for anything ever again.except for Metallica tickets, 'cause lord I'd love to go.no pun intended", sobbed Lorelai. She turned her head away from the ceiling and back to the window. Her stomach did a somersault and she let out a muffled scream as her breath caught in her throat. She raced to the door and down the steps. Luke, with Rory cradled in his arms met her in the middle of the yard.
"Rory...Rory.oh, thank god you're safe. Where have you been?...what happened?..." Lorelai's plague of questions was stopped by Luke.
"I think we should just get her to bed. We can find out what happened later." Lorelai nodded and followed Luke inside.
Luke lay Rory down on her un-made bed, pulling the covers up over her shivering body. Both Luke and Lorelai were shocked when they noticed the bruise that had started to form on Rory's left cheek. Lorelai gasped. She tenderly brushed her hand across the mark, Rory groaning in pain at the touch. Lorelai kissed Rory's forehead, and she and Luke left her to sleep.
"Did you see that Luke! Someone's hurt my baby! I swear on Johnny Depp's life I will find out who did this to my angel and I'll make them wish they were never born!" Lorelai grabbed her jacket and started to storm out the house only to be stopped by Luke. "Luke! What are you doing? Let me go I have to find the arsehole who did this to my baby!" Lorelai tried to free herself of Luke's strong arms, but he held her back firmly. "Luke, why are you stopping me! I have to."
"You have to calm down."
"Calm down. Calm down! Some bastard out there has hit my daughter.my daughter.my own flesh and blood and you want me to calm down", Lorelai scoffed, "I need to find out who did this, that's what I need to do!"
"Yes, I know, and trust me, I want to find them as well, but not now." Luke lead Lorelai to the couch, sitting down, he took her hand in his. "Right now, Rory needs you.here. The hunt can wait till tomorrow."
Lorelai looked into Luke's eye's. They were full of tenderness and care, and she found herself calming down. She knew he was right.he was always right. "You're good at the comforting thing you know?" Luke smiled warmly at her and was met by Lorelai's lips. They snuggled into each other, slowly drifting off into sleep.
*******
Rory drifted out of her slumber as the smell of coffee sought her out from the kitchen. Her eyes drifted to the window that was unleashing a flood of sunshine, its warmth contrasting heavily with the cold numb feeling that was brewing inside her. Normally she would have awoken with a bright smile on her face, the beauty of the day outside sending happy tingles through her body. But today she awoke with a frown, the glare from the window piercing her eyes and giving her a headache.
The memory of the night before was still fresh in her mind. There was a permanent picture of Dean's angry face branded in her memory. She crawled out of the comfy confines of her bed and made her way over to the mirror on her dresser. She hoped last night had just been a terrible dream, but she was snapped out of this fantasy by the purple bruise that now painted her left cheek. The stark reality of the situation now came flooding back to her. Dean, her loving and trusted boyfriend had hit her, branding her with his blind fury.
A single tear fell down her soft cheek. She brushed it away angrily. Dean was not deserving of her tears.he was not deserving of her love.he was not deserving of her thoughts, or of her. Their relationship had ended, for good. Rory no longer had any respect for him and she vowed to wipe him from her mind.Dean had never existed.
Rory looked at her Chilton uniform that hung limply over her chair, then back to her reflection in the mirror. She knew Lorelai would try and talk her into staying at home, swapping Hell for a 'mother-daughter-share- session' where Lorelai would make Rory do all the sharing.
Rory glanced back over to her bed. She could just as easily cocoon herself in its covers, hide from the world, hide from her bruise, and hide from him. But, that wasn't an option. Rory wasn't going to give Dean that sort of satisfaction.the satisfaction that comes from winning. Dean had not won, he had lost.the only winner was Rory and her trophy decorated her pretty face.
Rory grabbed her uniform and headed out the door to the bathroom. Just as she had expected, the moment her door creaked open, Lorelai swooped down on her like a hawk to its prey. Coffee in hand, Lorelai pulled Rory into her arms.
"Oh my poor baby.are you ok?" gushed Lorelai, kissing Rory on her head, "I was so worried about you."
"Mom, I'm fine." Rory tried to squirm her way out of Lorelai's arms, but the embrace was too tight. "Mom, let me go, I'm going to be late for school!"
"What?!", Lorelai gasped, "How can you even think about going to school after what that great big ugly oaf Butch from that biker gang Hell's Angels did to your pretty face?"
"What?" replied a confused Rory.
"Well, you haven't told me what happened, so I made up a story that would force me not to believe that somebody I actually know did that to you", explained Lorelai, "Of course, it would be super if you told me who did so that I could go and pinch their puny head off, something that I'd enjoy very much."
Rory let out an exasperated sigh and pushed past her mother towards the bathroom.
"Hey, honey.come on, talk to me." Lorelai pleaded.
"Mom, I'm gonna be late."
"Just tell me what happened.come on, we tell each other everything. You have to tell me who did this."
"I don't want to talk about it. I want to go to school and forget yesterday ever happened!" Rory screamed back at her mother, storming off to the bathroom.
Chilton
Rory sat in class, counting down the seconds to the bell. She'd managed to get through the morning with few hassles. Paris, Louise and Madeline were ignoring her, and had been since the day before. Mr. Medina had looked questionly at her bruise, but had thankfully said nothing. The rest of Chilton either stared but didn't say anything, or just didn't notice her at all, and she was yet to cross paths with Tristan, something she found herself fearing.only she didn't know why.
Rory let out a sigh of relief as the bell went, signaling the end of class. Usually she enjoyed her literature class, but today she felt suffocated and couldn't wait to escape the confines of its walls. She bustled out of the room with everyone else. Mr. Medina had been watching her with concern, and she didn't want him to keep her back for one of his counseling sessions.
Rory made her way through the busy Chilton halls to her locker. A familiar form came to stand next to her.
"My, that's a pretty little bruise you've got there Rory."
"Paris.hi", replied Rory uncertainly.
"I wonder how it happened. Madeline, Louise, any ides?" Louise and Madeline shook their heads, "Well", continued Paris, "How about I take a shot at this little puzzle then. Let's see, somebody's obviously hit you, but who?" Paris pondered mockingly, "Perhaps it was some weirdo from your 'friendly' little town. No, that's not it, is it Rory?" Rory looked at her feet. "Ok, I'll try again. Perhaps it was.your mother. Oooo, what a scandal, what will people think!" Madeline and Louise snickered.
"Paris, stop it. My mother would never do something like this." Rory shot back, pointing to her face.
'Well then, if it wasn't your mother, then there's only one other person I can think of.your precious boyfriend.Dean." Rory's face went white. "That's who did it, isn't Rory? My, my, my, Rory.you sure know how to pick 'em don't you. Of course, I can understand why he'd do it.jealousy can really take a firm hold over people."
A confused look overtook Rory's face, "What do you mean?"
"Come off it Rory, you know exactly what I mean, and if you don't, then I guess you're not as smart as you think you are." With that having been said, Paris, Madeline and Louise gave Rory one last disgusted look before walking off.
Rory thought she was going to collapse under the heavy weight of emotions that began to over take her body. She was angry at Paris for her accusations, and hurt at the same time. She felt confused.what had she meant, 'jealousy can really take a firm hold over people'? Dean didn't hit her out of jealousy.what could he possibly be jealous of. He hit her cause she didn't love him.not out of jealousy. *Unless.no, that wasn't possible.or was it? Was Dean jealous about Tristan, about their kiss? No he couldn't be, he didn't even know about that.*
Rory looked up and down the empty corridor. She felt alone and lost. She leant into the coolness of her locker door and closed her eyes that were brimming with tears. She wished she could just grow wings and fly away, from Chilton, Stars Hollow, Dean and life.
Tristan, having partied himself to bed in the early hours of dawn, had slept in and was consequently running late for school. He considered not going in at all, but the then he'd miss seeing her, something he could not live with out. By the time he'd staggered around the DuGrey Mansion, he'd only arrive at Chilton in time for lunch and afternoon classes, but at least he'd see Rory.
Tristan swung his car into an empty space in the Chilton car park. He headed inside the cold confines of the Chilton halls that were now deserted of students. He decided to go to his locker first before going on his search for Rory. As he rounded the corner to the row of lockers that housed his own, his heart knotted in his chest as he saw a crumpled Rory, eye's closed, tear stained cheeks, leaning against her locker. Her bag lay on the floor, books, pens and papers spilling out around her.
Tristan rushed to her side, instantly spotting the bruise that marked her face. The knot in his heart tightened as he realized some one had hit her. He sat down beside her, gently pulling Rory into his arms, holding her closely and wiping away the tears that streamed down her face.the tears that he for once had not caused. He whispered calming reassurances in her ears, glad when she began to relax against him.
Rory had collapsed to the hard cold floor, unable to withstand the weight of emotions on her shoulders. Resting her head on her locker, tears began to fall, blurring her vision of the tall, blue eyed enigma that was running to her side. Rory felt strong arms wrap around her as she was pulled into a firm chest. Gentle hands caressed her cheeks, wiping away the endless flow of tears. A calming voice weaved its way through her ears, a voice she recognized as belonging to Tristan. She relaxed against him, thankful for his care and comfort.
Tristan breathed a sigh of relief when he noticed Rory's sobs subsiding. He wanted to ask what happened, wanted to know who had put the ugly bruise on her face so that he could beat the crap out of them. He knew she wouldn't want to talk about it, but he had to find out who had hit her.
"Rory.what happened, who did this to you?" he asked quietly.
Rory lifted her head to look in his blue pools. They were full of love, care and concern for her. At that moment she felt safe. She'd never felt that safe with anyone, ever. She didn't want to leave.she wanted to stay with him, protected from the world in his arms.
"Take me home, Tristan".
Tristan would have fallen down with shock at Rory's request had he not already been sitting on the floor. "Are you sure Rory?" he asked, his voice laced with uncertainty.
"Yes. I just want to be anywhere but here".
"Ok, sure, no problem".
Tristan helped Rory up, then gathered her bag and contents that lay sprawled on the ground. He placed his hand protectively on the small of Rory's back, as they walked out of the suffocating confounds of Chilton to his car.
Tristan and Rory drove in silence. The only conversation they shared was the directions Rory gave Tristan as they neared Stars Hollow. Tristan pulled up in the vacant Gilmore driveway.
"Is your mum home?" Tristan asked as he helped her out of the car. Rory shook her head. Tristan felt the start of a smirk spreading to his lips, but hid it away. * You insensitive jerk Tristan.get over it, she doesn't want that.* Rory walked up the steps to the front door, Tristan following closely behind. She unlocked the door and made a bee-line to the kitchen, and more importantly, the coffee machine. She became to fumble with it, spilling half of the sacred coffee on the floor, before Tristan stepped in to take over. Rory started to protest, but was stopped by Tristan.
"Go to the lounge room and sit down, I'll do this". Rory nodded and made her way to the other room. She flopped down on the couch and was joined moments later by Tristan, coffee in hand. Rory took a long sip from the mug Tristan handed to her. The smooth liquid traveled down her dry throat, filling her inside with warmth. Tristan chuckled at the content look that spread over Rory's face. She looked up at him quizzically.
"You really love that stuff don't you?" Tristan asked, smiling warmly at her.
Rory nodded, 'It keeps me alive."
"Oh, so what, you don't like oxygen or something?" It was Rory's turn to let out a slight chuckle, "No, doesn't seem to have quite the same effect." Rory said, looking into her mug as they drifted into silence.
Tristan looked away from Rory, unable to bear to see her so sad. His gaze drifted to the coffee table where an opened photo album lay. He picked it up, looking at the pictures of happier times between Rory and Dean.
"He's an idiot for letting go of you Rory." Tristan stated simply.
Rory's gaze drifted over to what Tristan was looking at. She slumped back against the couch, unable to stand the sight of the pictures. Tristan looked over to her, his heart knotting once more as a single tear slid down her cheek.
"Oh, Rory I'm sorry, I shouldn't have brought it up".
"No, it's ok, it's not your fault.it's his, It's all his fault." Rory sobbed.
"What's his fault Rory? Breaking up with you? Of course it's his fault. It's his fault he lost out on the single most beautiful girl in the world".
The flow of tears began to fall more heavily down Rory's face at his words. "But why me? Why did he have to do this to me? What did I do to deserve this?"
"Do what Rory? Did he hit you, is that who hit you?" Rory looked up at him with tear filled eyes and gave him the answer he already knew. "Oh, Rory, I'm so sorry", Tristan said as calmly as he could, pulling Rory into his arms.
Rory relaxed against Tristan, "Thank you", she said quietly.
Tristan kissed her forehead, wiping away a stray tear, "No problem", he replied, as both closed their eyes, relishing each other's comfort.
******** Later that night
Lorelai pulled up in the driveway beside the unfamiliar car that rested where she usually parked the jeep. She looked quizzically at it before hurriedly making her way into the house. She walked into the lounge room to find Rory and a strange boy she didn't recognise curled up in each others arms.
"Rory?"
"Mum?"
"Mrs. Gilmore?"
Authors note: Sorry I took so long to write this part.I have been heaps busy, and got writers block a few times. Thanks to those who reviewed, and special thanks to Ellie who kept me motivated to write my trory. I hope you all enjoy this next chapter. P.S I may have altered the personalities of Paris and Dean a bit.sorry if I make them out to be too mean, but hey, I'm claiming artistic license!!!
Rory and Dean stood stunned. It was as if each were deer's that had been snared on the road by on-coming headlights. Rory's eyes were wide in shock. She couldn't believe Dean was standing right there, in front of her. She closed her eyes briefly and re-opened them, hoping he was just a dream, a figment of her imagination. He wasn't.
"What are you doing here?" they both asked at the same time.
"Lane told me to meet her here", replied Rory.
"Lane told you to meet her.she told me the same thing.oh". Rory and Dean both realized at the same time what their devious friend had done.
"She set this up! I can't believe it. That little sneak!" Rory flopped down onto the bench in the Gazebo.
"I guess she figured we needed to talk or something", replied Dean.
A look of dread flashed across Rory's face. *Talk.to Dean. About what? It was over, wasn't it?*
Dean watched Rory. He could see she was concentrating hard on whatever it was she was thinking about. He had missed her terribly and still loved her as much as the fateful day he called off their relationship. *I'm such an idiot. How could I have let her go?*
"Rory, don't you think we should talk?"
Rory looked up at Dean, the pleading in his voice apparent. She searched his eyes. In them she saw a desire, a desire for her. Dean moved to sit next to Rory, taking her hand in his own larger one. Rory shivered. His touch was cold. It wasn't warm like.Tristan's. There was no spark, no bolt of electricity that surged through her body.
"Rory, I miss you. Everyday I kick myself over the mistake I made. I never should have broken up with you like that. It hurts so much not to be with you. Rory, I still love you."
Rory looked up to see Dean's face very close to her own. She froze as Dean lowered his lips to her own. His kiss was icy cold. There was no love, just a need, a need she finally realized she didn't want from him.
Dean pulled back from Rory, realizing she wasn't returning his passion. He searched her eyes for a sign that she missed him, that she wanted to be with him, that she loved him. Realizing his search was futile, pain and anger began to take over his body. He dropped her hand, standing up in an attempt to make himself appear stronger, more powerful.
"You still can't say it. You still don't love me, hell, you don't even miss me."
Tears sprung to Rory's eyes at his words as she picked up on the hurt and anger in his voice. "Dean.please."
Dean grabbed Rory's wrist and held it tightly, pulling her up to face him. Rory was terrified. Dean was a lot bigger and stronger than she was and she didn't know if she'd be able to get away if he became even more forceful with her.
"Dean...stop.you're hurting me", Rory stammered as she winced at the pain he was causing. Tears began to fall from her eyes as she looked around to see if there was anyone to help her. The park was deserted.there was no one.
"You know what you are Rory? You're weak. You're a weak, snotty little private school bitch, and you want to know something else.I don't need you, in fact, I'm better off without you." Dean practically snarled as he spoke to her. Then he did something Rory thought was incapable of him. He slapped her, hard against her soft porcelain cheek. He pushed her back down onto the bench.
"Goodbye, Rory". Dean spat out her name like it was some kind of disease. Rory slumped back on the bench and watched him walk away. She felt paralyzed as tears continued to cascade down her cheeks. The side of her face burned from where Dean had hit her. Rory was so confused. She was confused, shocked, scared and hurt. She'd seen a side to Dean she didn't know existed, a side of him she thought couldn't exist.
Rory felt too paralyzed to move. She feared that Dean was still out there, waiting for her. She curled herself up, shivering, crying and preying someone would find her.
Luke's Diner
"Hello Lukey", greeted Lorelai as she walked into the diner.
"If you've come to get coffee, then too bad, you're not having any", replied Luke rather sternly.
"Ohhh, why?"
"Because one, you called me 'Lukey', and two, you drink too much".
"Come on Luke. You're not going to honestly deny me my coffee are you?"
"Yep"
"But you know I can't live without it. It's my life support system. You wouldn't want me to die would you? You'd feel guilty for the rest of your life". Lorelai said as she looked up innocently at Luke, holding her mug up expectantly. He gave in, unable to stand the puppy dog eyes look she was giving him.
"No more 'Lukey'", he warned.
"Ok!" Lorelai chirped happily, "Hey, have you seen Mini Me?"
"Who?"
"Rory".
"Ah, no.come to think of it, I haven't seen her since this morning."
"That's weird, we always meet here at this time."
"Well. Maybe she's caught up with schoolwork at home."
"Mmm, maybe". Lorelai couldn't help but feel a little worried. It wasn't like Rory to be late for coffee at Luke's. She pulled out the mobile and phoned home. After five minutes of listening to the ringing tone, she gave up, realizing she either wasn't there or wasn't answering. *Maybe she's on her way.*
Luke watched as Lorelai's face became more worried. He reached out to hold her hand. "Not at home?" Lorelai shook her head, "Well then she's probably on her way here then". Lorelai tried to give him a faint smile that turned out to be more like a frown.
"Yeah, she'll probably walk through that door right now". Lorelai turned to the door, expecting Rory to walk in, wishing she'd walk in and tell her all about her day at Hell. When she didn't, Lorelai became even more worried. She had the distinct feeling that something was wrong. She turned to Luke, the worried and concerned look even more evident on her face.
"Have you tried her pager?"
"Hey, good idea!" Lorelai immediately paged Rory. After ten minutes with no return message Lorelai had become frantic. She began to pace up and down the now empty diner, trying to recall if Rory had said anything about not meeting her, or that she had to stay back at Chilton. Luke came around from behind the counter.
"Lorelai stop, you're going to burn a hole into my floor with all that pacing". Lorelai turned to Luke. She had reached panic mode and tears began to stream down her face.
"Something's wrong.something's happened.Rory just doesn't disappear like this."
Luke's heart was breaking. He couldn't bear to see her this way. He pulled her into his arms, whispering assuring words in her ear. Lorelai relaxed in his arms and buried her face in his shoulder. She began to calm down and remembered how to breathe. She raised her eyes to meet his. They were soft, full of love, caring and concern. Finally, she knew what Sookie, Rory and the rest of Stars Hollow had been telling her for so long. Luke was in love with her, and she was in love with him. Slowly, she reached up to kiss him.
To say Luke was shocked is an understatement. Slowly he regained his composure, kissing her back. It was full of passion and relief. The feelings both had kept bottled up for each other came flooding out in that one kiss. However, it wasn't to last for long. Just then the door opened and in walked Miss Patty and Taylor Doose. Luke and Lorelai jumped away from each other to meet the shocked and happy faces watching them. Miss Patty started to jump up and down in excitement. She flew out the door just as quickly as she had come in, eager to start spreading the news. Taylor walked up to the flustered pair, shaking Luke's hand.
"It's about time you two woke up and got together".
"Taylor." Luke started.
"This day shall go down in Stars Hollow history, I'll tell you that right now".
"Taylor."
"So when is the wedding?"
"Taylor", Luke said frustratingly, "Rory is missing".
Taylor was about to go on when Luke's words sunk in, "Missing! What do you mean missing?"
"She was supposed to meet me here half an hour ago. She's not at home and she isn't answering her pager", Lorelai informed him.
"Well, don't just stand there, we have to organize search parties!" said Taylor as he rushed out the door. Lorelai was about to follow him when Luke pulled her back.
"You should go home. Wait for her there, I'll go look for her." Lorelai was about to protest, "You are in no state to look for her Lorelai. You're better of at home incase she goes back there", Luke said sternly. Lorelai nodded reluctantly. She knew he was right, she would be better off at home. They headed out the door, both hoping that Rory was alright.
The Gazebo
Darkness was setting in as Luke walked through the park in the center of Stars Hollow. His eyes were darting furiously as he searched for Rory. He hoped she was safe. He painted a pretty picture in his head of Rory curled up in the library, so absorbed in her book that she hadn't realized what time it was. It would be so like her to do that. But she wasn't there, Luke had checked five times. His thoughts turned to Lorelai. She was so distraught with fear. All he wanted to do was return Rory to her and hold them both in his arms. He had always been apart of their lives and was constantly looking out for them both, helping them whenever and wherever he could. He felt like he was apart of their little family and had always treated Rory like his own daughter.and always would.
Luke started to head towards the Gazebo, the only place he had yet to look. As he neared closer he thought he could see a small bundle, or form curled up on the bench. His heart skipped a beat as he rushed over, hoping against hope that it was Rory.
Rory heard footsteps coming up the stairs to the gazebo. She cowered back on the bench, fearing it may have been Dean coming back to finish what he had started.
"Rory.Rory is that you? Oh thank god you're safe." It was Luke. Rory relaxed with relief as Luke sat down and pulled her into his arms. Rory clung onto him for dear life as another wave of tears fell from her eyes in relief. She felt safe, and was so glad that Luke had found her.
"Come on, I'll take you home to your mom. She's been so worried about you." Rory nodded and was grateful when Luke picked her up to carry her, she really didn't think she would be able to walk, the paralyzed sensation still coursing through her entire being.
Gilmore House
Lorelai stood staring out the window overlooking the front yard. She was shivering, covered from head to toe in tiny goose bumps. Silent tears fell from her eyes, staining her cheeks. Her over-active imagination kept coming up with horrible scenarios that could have happened to her precious daughter, causing her tears to fall even heavier. All she wanted was to have Rory back, safe in her arms.
"God, I know I've never really acknowledged you in the past, and I admit that I have made fun of you and the whole churchy religious thing, but if you could please, please, just return my daughter to me safe and sound, I swear I will never ask for anything ever again.except for Metallica tickets, 'cause lord I'd love to go.no pun intended", sobbed Lorelai. She turned her head away from the ceiling and back to the window. Her stomach did a somersault and she let out a muffled scream as her breath caught in her throat. She raced to the door and down the steps. Luke, with Rory cradled in his arms met her in the middle of the yard.
"Rory...Rory.oh, thank god you're safe. Where have you been?...what happened?..." Lorelai's plague of questions was stopped by Luke.
"I think we should just get her to bed. We can find out what happened later." Lorelai nodded and followed Luke inside.
Luke lay Rory down on her un-made bed, pulling the covers up over her shivering body. Both Luke and Lorelai were shocked when they noticed the bruise that had started to form on Rory's left cheek. Lorelai gasped. She tenderly brushed her hand across the mark, Rory groaning in pain at the touch. Lorelai kissed Rory's forehead, and she and Luke left her to sleep.
"Did you see that Luke! Someone's hurt my baby! I swear on Johnny Depp's life I will find out who did this to my angel and I'll make them wish they were never born!" Lorelai grabbed her jacket and started to storm out the house only to be stopped by Luke. "Luke! What are you doing? Let me go I have to find the arsehole who did this to my baby!" Lorelai tried to free herself of Luke's strong arms, but he held her back firmly. "Luke, why are you stopping me! I have to."
"You have to calm down."
"Calm down. Calm down! Some bastard out there has hit my daughter.my daughter.my own flesh and blood and you want me to calm down", Lorelai scoffed, "I need to find out who did this, that's what I need to do!"
"Yes, I know, and trust me, I want to find them as well, but not now." Luke lead Lorelai to the couch, sitting down, he took her hand in his. "Right now, Rory needs you.here. The hunt can wait till tomorrow."
Lorelai looked into Luke's eye's. They were full of tenderness and care, and she found herself calming down. She knew he was right.he was always right. "You're good at the comforting thing you know?" Luke smiled warmly at her and was met by Lorelai's lips. They snuggled into each other, slowly drifting off into sleep.
*******
Rory drifted out of her slumber as the smell of coffee sought her out from the kitchen. Her eyes drifted to the window that was unleashing a flood of sunshine, its warmth contrasting heavily with the cold numb feeling that was brewing inside her. Normally she would have awoken with a bright smile on her face, the beauty of the day outside sending happy tingles through her body. But today she awoke with a frown, the glare from the window piercing her eyes and giving her a headache.
The memory of the night before was still fresh in her mind. There was a permanent picture of Dean's angry face branded in her memory. She crawled out of the comfy confines of her bed and made her way over to the mirror on her dresser. She hoped last night had just been a terrible dream, but she was snapped out of this fantasy by the purple bruise that now painted her left cheek. The stark reality of the situation now came flooding back to her. Dean, her loving and trusted boyfriend had hit her, branding her with his blind fury.
A single tear fell down her soft cheek. She brushed it away angrily. Dean was not deserving of her tears.he was not deserving of her love.he was not deserving of her thoughts, or of her. Their relationship had ended, for good. Rory no longer had any respect for him and she vowed to wipe him from her mind.Dean had never existed.
Rory looked at her Chilton uniform that hung limply over her chair, then back to her reflection in the mirror. She knew Lorelai would try and talk her into staying at home, swapping Hell for a 'mother-daughter-share- session' where Lorelai would make Rory do all the sharing.
Rory glanced back over to her bed. She could just as easily cocoon herself in its covers, hide from the world, hide from her bruise, and hide from him. But, that wasn't an option. Rory wasn't going to give Dean that sort of satisfaction.the satisfaction that comes from winning. Dean had not won, he had lost.the only winner was Rory and her trophy decorated her pretty face.
Rory grabbed her uniform and headed out the door to the bathroom. Just as she had expected, the moment her door creaked open, Lorelai swooped down on her like a hawk to its prey. Coffee in hand, Lorelai pulled Rory into her arms.
"Oh my poor baby.are you ok?" gushed Lorelai, kissing Rory on her head, "I was so worried about you."
"Mom, I'm fine." Rory tried to squirm her way out of Lorelai's arms, but the embrace was too tight. "Mom, let me go, I'm going to be late for school!"
"What?!", Lorelai gasped, "How can you even think about going to school after what that great big ugly oaf Butch from that biker gang Hell's Angels did to your pretty face?"
"What?" replied a confused Rory.
"Well, you haven't told me what happened, so I made up a story that would force me not to believe that somebody I actually know did that to you", explained Lorelai, "Of course, it would be super if you told me who did so that I could go and pinch their puny head off, something that I'd enjoy very much."
Rory let out an exasperated sigh and pushed past her mother towards the bathroom.
"Hey, honey.come on, talk to me." Lorelai pleaded.
"Mom, I'm gonna be late."
"Just tell me what happened.come on, we tell each other everything. You have to tell me who did this."
"I don't want to talk about it. I want to go to school and forget yesterday ever happened!" Rory screamed back at her mother, storming off to the bathroom.
Chilton
Rory sat in class, counting down the seconds to the bell. She'd managed to get through the morning with few hassles. Paris, Louise and Madeline were ignoring her, and had been since the day before. Mr. Medina had looked questionly at her bruise, but had thankfully said nothing. The rest of Chilton either stared but didn't say anything, or just didn't notice her at all, and she was yet to cross paths with Tristan, something she found herself fearing.only she didn't know why.
Rory let out a sigh of relief as the bell went, signaling the end of class. Usually she enjoyed her literature class, but today she felt suffocated and couldn't wait to escape the confines of its walls. She bustled out of the room with everyone else. Mr. Medina had been watching her with concern, and she didn't want him to keep her back for one of his counseling sessions.
Rory made her way through the busy Chilton halls to her locker. A familiar form came to stand next to her.
"My, that's a pretty little bruise you've got there Rory."
"Paris.hi", replied Rory uncertainly.
"I wonder how it happened. Madeline, Louise, any ides?" Louise and Madeline shook their heads, "Well", continued Paris, "How about I take a shot at this little puzzle then. Let's see, somebody's obviously hit you, but who?" Paris pondered mockingly, "Perhaps it was some weirdo from your 'friendly' little town. No, that's not it, is it Rory?" Rory looked at her feet. "Ok, I'll try again. Perhaps it was.your mother. Oooo, what a scandal, what will people think!" Madeline and Louise snickered.
"Paris, stop it. My mother would never do something like this." Rory shot back, pointing to her face.
'Well then, if it wasn't your mother, then there's only one other person I can think of.your precious boyfriend.Dean." Rory's face went white. "That's who did it, isn't Rory? My, my, my, Rory.you sure know how to pick 'em don't you. Of course, I can understand why he'd do it.jealousy can really take a firm hold over people."
A confused look overtook Rory's face, "What do you mean?"
"Come off it Rory, you know exactly what I mean, and if you don't, then I guess you're not as smart as you think you are." With that having been said, Paris, Madeline and Louise gave Rory one last disgusted look before walking off.
Rory thought she was going to collapse under the heavy weight of emotions that began to over take her body. She was angry at Paris for her accusations, and hurt at the same time. She felt confused.what had she meant, 'jealousy can really take a firm hold over people'? Dean didn't hit her out of jealousy.what could he possibly be jealous of. He hit her cause she didn't love him.not out of jealousy. *Unless.no, that wasn't possible.or was it? Was Dean jealous about Tristan, about their kiss? No he couldn't be, he didn't even know about that.*
Rory looked up and down the empty corridor. She felt alone and lost. She leant into the coolness of her locker door and closed her eyes that were brimming with tears. She wished she could just grow wings and fly away, from Chilton, Stars Hollow, Dean and life.
Tristan, having partied himself to bed in the early hours of dawn, had slept in and was consequently running late for school. He considered not going in at all, but the then he'd miss seeing her, something he could not live with out. By the time he'd staggered around the DuGrey Mansion, he'd only arrive at Chilton in time for lunch and afternoon classes, but at least he'd see Rory.
Tristan swung his car into an empty space in the Chilton car park. He headed inside the cold confines of the Chilton halls that were now deserted of students. He decided to go to his locker first before going on his search for Rory. As he rounded the corner to the row of lockers that housed his own, his heart knotted in his chest as he saw a crumpled Rory, eye's closed, tear stained cheeks, leaning against her locker. Her bag lay on the floor, books, pens and papers spilling out around her.
Tristan rushed to her side, instantly spotting the bruise that marked her face. The knot in his heart tightened as he realized some one had hit her. He sat down beside her, gently pulling Rory into his arms, holding her closely and wiping away the tears that streamed down her face.the tears that he for once had not caused. He whispered calming reassurances in her ears, glad when she began to relax against him.
Rory had collapsed to the hard cold floor, unable to withstand the weight of emotions on her shoulders. Resting her head on her locker, tears began to fall, blurring her vision of the tall, blue eyed enigma that was running to her side. Rory felt strong arms wrap around her as she was pulled into a firm chest. Gentle hands caressed her cheeks, wiping away the endless flow of tears. A calming voice weaved its way through her ears, a voice she recognized as belonging to Tristan. She relaxed against him, thankful for his care and comfort.
Tristan breathed a sigh of relief when he noticed Rory's sobs subsiding. He wanted to ask what happened, wanted to know who had put the ugly bruise on her face so that he could beat the crap out of them. He knew she wouldn't want to talk about it, but he had to find out who had hit her.
"Rory.what happened, who did this to you?" he asked quietly.
Rory lifted her head to look in his blue pools. They were full of love, care and concern for her. At that moment she felt safe. She'd never felt that safe with anyone, ever. She didn't want to leave.she wanted to stay with him, protected from the world in his arms.
"Take me home, Tristan".
Tristan would have fallen down with shock at Rory's request had he not already been sitting on the floor. "Are you sure Rory?" he asked, his voice laced with uncertainty.
"Yes. I just want to be anywhere but here".
"Ok, sure, no problem".
Tristan helped Rory up, then gathered her bag and contents that lay sprawled on the ground. He placed his hand protectively on the small of Rory's back, as they walked out of the suffocating confounds of Chilton to his car.
Tristan and Rory drove in silence. The only conversation they shared was the directions Rory gave Tristan as they neared Stars Hollow. Tristan pulled up in the vacant Gilmore driveway.
"Is your mum home?" Tristan asked as he helped her out of the car. Rory shook her head. Tristan felt the start of a smirk spreading to his lips, but hid it away. * You insensitive jerk Tristan.get over it, she doesn't want that.* Rory walked up the steps to the front door, Tristan following closely behind. She unlocked the door and made a bee-line to the kitchen, and more importantly, the coffee machine. She became to fumble with it, spilling half of the sacred coffee on the floor, before Tristan stepped in to take over. Rory started to protest, but was stopped by Tristan.
"Go to the lounge room and sit down, I'll do this". Rory nodded and made her way to the other room. She flopped down on the couch and was joined moments later by Tristan, coffee in hand. Rory took a long sip from the mug Tristan handed to her. The smooth liquid traveled down her dry throat, filling her inside with warmth. Tristan chuckled at the content look that spread over Rory's face. She looked up at him quizzically.
"You really love that stuff don't you?" Tristan asked, smiling warmly at her.
Rory nodded, 'It keeps me alive."
"Oh, so what, you don't like oxygen or something?" It was Rory's turn to let out a slight chuckle, "No, doesn't seem to have quite the same effect." Rory said, looking into her mug as they drifted into silence.
Tristan looked away from Rory, unable to bear to see her so sad. His gaze drifted to the coffee table where an opened photo album lay. He picked it up, looking at the pictures of happier times between Rory and Dean.
"He's an idiot for letting go of you Rory." Tristan stated simply.
Rory's gaze drifted over to what Tristan was looking at. She slumped back against the couch, unable to stand the sight of the pictures. Tristan looked over to her, his heart knotting once more as a single tear slid down her cheek.
"Oh, Rory I'm sorry, I shouldn't have brought it up".
"No, it's ok, it's not your fault.it's his, It's all his fault." Rory sobbed.
"What's his fault Rory? Breaking up with you? Of course it's his fault. It's his fault he lost out on the single most beautiful girl in the world".
The flow of tears began to fall more heavily down Rory's face at his words. "But why me? Why did he have to do this to me? What did I do to deserve this?"
"Do what Rory? Did he hit you, is that who hit you?" Rory looked up at him with tear filled eyes and gave him the answer he already knew. "Oh, Rory, I'm so sorry", Tristan said as calmly as he could, pulling Rory into his arms.
Rory relaxed against Tristan, "Thank you", she said quietly.
Tristan kissed her forehead, wiping away a stray tear, "No problem", he replied, as both closed their eyes, relishing each other's comfort.
******** Later that night
Lorelai pulled up in the driveway beside the unfamiliar car that rested where she usually parked the jeep. She looked quizzically at it before hurriedly making her way into the house. She walked into the lounge room to find Rory and a strange boy she didn't recognise curled up in each others arms.
"Rory?"
"Mum?"
"Mrs. Gilmore?"