Title: I've Loved You Forever

Rating: R

Disclaimer: still don't own the O.C.

Chapter Eight: You Look Wonderful Tonight

All breathing had ceased in Ryan Atwood's body as he stared at the figure standing in the middle of the poolhouse. He had seen Marissa in many things- hell he had even seen her naked- but never had he seen her like this. She was wearing a dark blue dress that hung right past her calves. It was strapless he could see and her long hair was swept over one shoulder so she could try to zip the back. Ryan walked forward quietly and zipped the dress for her. She turned around quickly and relaxed when she saw him. He noticed that she looked even more beautiful facing him. Her dark blue eyes were lined with the same color eyeliner and light pink lipstick played on her lips. The dark blue of the dress complimented her lightly tanned skin, as did the small diamond necklace hanging loosely around her neck. Her hair swung slightly as she turned to completely face him and it was now hanging over her shoulders, her bangs swept to the side.

"Hi, Ryan," she said.

"Wow," he breathed.

She smiled. "You think?"

All he could do was nod and kiss her softly.

The party was Newport's usual escapade. Lights were strung throughout the trees and a huge Christmas tre stood in the center of it all, it's back facingthe sea. Ryan's eyes shifted nervously as he scanned the crowd.Marissa grapsed his handmore tightly as her mother walked briskly over to her.

"Hello Marissa. Ryan"

Marissanodded and walked off, leaving Ryanalone with her mother.Julie looked athim, glaring. Ryan glared right back and walked off. He ran a hand across Marissa's back as he walked behind her.

"I hate her," she whispered softly, staring at the water hitting thesand.

"Yeah, she's not very popular with anyone right now, I don't think," he said, trying to lighten the mood. It didn't seem to work.

"Could we just get out ofhere?"Marissa asked, turning to face Ryan.He smiled with relief.

"Yeah, sure."

"You know, you're going to ruin your dress," Ryan said as he watched Marissa kick her feet in the cold water.

"I don't care."

He shook his head and walked toward her, grabbing her hand and pulling her out of the water.

"Ryan..." Marissa started,butwasstopped by a kiss. She wrappedher arms around his neck and giggled softly as he fell back into the sand.Ryan put his hands oneither side of her face and pulledback from kissing and stared into her eyes. His gaze was so piercing that after a few seconds,Marissa looked away.Ryan gently put a hand onher chin and turned her toward him again.

"I love you," he whispered.