AN: You have no idea how sorry I am for having you all wait for so long. Life have REALLY gotten away with me. I hope there are still people following this story. I just want you all to know that I haven't forgotten this story and I will continue on with these series. It has been killing me for not updating and again I apologize for that. I hope this chapter will make up for the long wait. I will start the next chapter right away. Hopefully the next one won't be so long. *Crossing fingers*
1trueluv: Thank you for your reply. I am so sorry that I haven't updated in like almost a year! I will try not have you guys wait for so long again.
Spelling/Grammar/Vocabulary: Please forgive any of these mistakes since I am not very good at this. Not really good at punctuations and use of vocabulary but please just bare with me.
Disclaimer: I don't own Dawson's Creek it belongs to the WB and Kevin Williamson.
Episode 3: Kiss
Joey is sitting in Dawson's room as she waits for him to return with their popcorn he had made for them. It is Sunday night and they begin school the next day. It has always been their ritual to have a movie night on the night before school begins. She was shocked when Dawson had called her and asked her if she was still up for their movie night. To be honest, she didn't think that Dawson would still want to do the movie night thing now that he is with Jen. Not wanting to turn him down - because she really did want to spend time with him - she quickly agreed.
Walking over to his place tonight, she had feared that maybe Dawson had invited Jen over to their ritual movie night. But to her surprise - Jen was no where in site. Happy to see that the blonde wasn't over, Joey didn't question him about it. She just figured that maybe he want to respect her; since after all this is their ritual.
Getting up from her spot on his bed - since the movie is currently on pause - she walked over to his window. Stepping out on the roof, she sat down as she looked over next door to where Jen is staying. She notice Mrs. Ryan in the kitchen making dinner but she haven't spot Jen anywhere. Feeling a bit uneasy with herself because she knows that she is spying, she couldn't help but to be curious about this girl. They don't really know much about her only that she's from New York and she came to Capeside because she seem to have some family issues. Whatever that means.
Focusing her eyes over at the Ryan's household, she didn't noticed Dawson came back into his room with the bowl of popcorn in his hands.
"Joey," Dawson called out with concern evident in his tone.
Joey jumped a little startled by his voice. She looked at him sheepishly as she climb back into his bedroom.
"Joey, what were you doing out there," he asked.
Shrugging her shoulders, Joey said, "Nothing. Just wanted some fresh air."
"Oh. Okay. Well, popcorn is ready," he said as he held up the bowl to show her.
Joey relaxed a little as she walked back to her spot on his bed. Dawson follow suit as he laid on the bed face forward beside her. He held out the bowl of popcorn towards her as he press play on his remote control. Taking some popcorn from the bowl, Joey chewed on the popcorn as she focus back on the movie.
They were watching some old classic romantic flick. Dawson and his movies, she thought as she watched a man and a woman running in the beach. The man caught up with the woman as he grab a hold of her and they collide on the sand laughing with the man on top of the woman. Then he lean down and started kissing the woman. That is so cliché, she thought as she looked on at the picture.
Dawson looked over at Joey and frown.
"What," he asked.
What do he mean what? "What," she retort back.
He shrugged, "You tell me. You seemed disturbed."
Rolling her eyes she said, "It's nothing, Dawson." Seeing the look he's sending her - she went on. "It's just that none of that stuff happens for real."
"Oh, Joey, Joey, Joey. You poor cynical thing. You never know. That could be you and some guy. Some things in life could happen unexpectedly. It may even surprise you. I know that his will be Jen and I moment," he said referring to the scene in the movie.
"Wait a minute. You mean to tell me that you haven't kissed that girl yet," Joey asked surprised.
"No. We haven't found that moment and we need that perfect moment," Dawson said.
Joey inwardly roll her eyes as she tried not to think about Dawson kissing Jen in a romantic way. Hell, in any kind of way for that matter. But then she immediately thought about Pacey. That night at the festival flash through her mind.
Dawson noticed a flush run through Joey's face. "What is it? What are you thinking about?"
Biting her lower lip, Joey curse herself for letting her thoughts go down that road. She told herself that she would never think about that night again. But yet, here she is thinking about that almost kiss with Pacey, of all people. Who would have thought that she would go as far as to want to kiss Pacey? She sure as hell didn't.
Looking over at Dawson, she said, "Nothing. It's not important. It's getting late. I should head on home." As she said this she stood up from her spot on his bed and started to put her shoes on.
Dawson sat up as he continue to watch her with disappointment in his eyes. What is she not telling me, he thought. Not wanting to push her any further he said, "Okay. Well I guess I'll see you around."
She smiled at him and said, "Yeah, see you around, Dawson." With that, she headed out the window and climb down the ladder that she came in from.
It is the beginning of a new school year and all the Capeside High students were walking to their first period class as the bell ring.
Leaving her locker, Joey haven't seen Dawson all day. Looking around she figured that he is probably off somewhere with Jen. This is her first day going to school here, so Dawson is probably being a good boyfriend showing her around. Heading to her first period class, Joey stopped on her tracks as she saw Pacey walking up. She haven't seen him since that night at the festival. Thoughts of them that night came back flashing in her mind. Heat started to rise on her face. Why do he have such a huge affect on me, she scowled herself.
She saw that he had spotted her as he stopped as well. Standing in the middle of the hallway awkwardly, Pacey and Joey kept their eyes on each other as students passed by trying to avoid running into them on the process.
Pacey was the first to break their awkward charade as he started to walk slowly towards her. Seeing him walking towards her, Joey stayed rooted on her spot. Anxious to see what he is going to do next - cause somehow this seem like a game to her - Joey looked up at him as he stood hovering over her. Is he going to try to kiss me again? Right here? Right now? In front of all these people? She held her breath as she wait to see what he is going to do.
Looking into her wide beautiful eyes, Pacey smiled to himself cause he know what she must be thinking. "Hi."
"Hi," she said awkwardly. To be honest she was expecting a little more than just 'hi.'
"See you after school," he asked.
Nodding her head she said, "Sure." What else should she say? Sorry she already made plans meeting up with Dawson after school? He probably will know that is a lie assuming that he had saw Dawson earlier.
Unnoticed by the war that is going on in her head, Pacey just smiled at her as he gave her arm a little squeeze before he left her standing there alone while he headed to his first period class.
Joey just stood there for a moment trying to figure out what just happened. What is wrong with her? Any normal day she would happen to stumble upon Pacey. No big deal. It's not like she actually have feelings for him. She can't imagine herself being with someone like Pacey Witter. She barely could stand to admit that she does value him as a friend. That's all. Joey Potter and Pacey Witter is almost laughable to think about as a couple. Whatever weird feeling she may have for him is just a passing phase. She is just hurt because she has feelings for Dawson and he's too blind to see it. So what does she do? Turn to Pacey as if that is going to make everything better. Taking a deep breath, Joey proceeded to walk down the hall to her class before she be late on her first day.
First day back at school had been a drag as she didn't see Dawson at all. She had no classes with him but she did had one with Jen. Just her luck. Jen was happy to see her as she waved Joey over to sit with her. They had English Lit. together. It was their fifth period class.
Joey already couldn't wait for this class to end as she can already see that this is going to be her worst class. No thanks to the blonde that is sitting right beside her - as if they are besties - Joey inwardly rolled her eyes at the way Jen is acting all friendly towards her.
As soon as the bell ring, Joey was quick to dash out the door but sadly she wasn't quick enough. Somehow Jen had managed to catch up to her. When is this girl going to get a clue that I don't want to be her friend, Joey scowled.
"So, Jo, looks like we have lunch together," Jen said happily.
Oh great! Just what I need.
"It's Joey," she said hating that she had called her 'Jo.' Only her friends call her that. Jen is most definitely are not her friend!
"What?"
"You called me 'Jo.' It's Joey," she corrected.
"Oh. I'm sorry," Jen said feeling as if she just been slapped in the face.
"It's fine," Joey muttered as she realize that she must have hurt her feelings.
Jen relaxed a little as she continue to walk to the cafeteria with Joey. When they reached their destination, Jen looked around as she observed how big the cafeteria is. The walls and floor are colored yellow and blue - which she assume must the school colors. Looking around at certain tables, she noticed that some of the students seem to have their own cliques. They have the Jocks table, the Cheerleaders, the Geeks, the Freaks, and the Rejects. Shaking her head to herself, Jen never thought that she would see such a thing. Only in movies but not in real life. Even back in New York, everyone sat wherever they want. Sure they have their own little groups but nothing like this. She sure as hell did not expect any of this in Capeside.
Seeing Joey heading over towards the lunch line, Jen follow suite.
Looking around the cafeteria, Joey felt a bit disappointed that neither Dawson and Pacey have lunch this period. They usually always have lunch together. Plus, she was looking forward to seeing Dawson. She haven't seen him all day. She knew that he had plans and would be busy all week. She also knew about his date plan that he have with Jen. So she knows that she is not going to be seeing him at all this week. Which really sucks because she was hoping that she would at least have one class with him and lunch period seems to be the only one that she could have count on.
"So, um, Jen. Have you seen Dawson lately," she asked casually.
"Yeah, earlier. Why?"
Does she really have to give her a reason? Shrugging her shoulders she respond, "No reason. It's just that I haven't seen him all day. That's all."
"Oh," she said as she grabbed a tray. "Well, Dawson mentioned something about meeting with Mr. Gold about his film he was working on. He's taking his class this semester. So he might be busy with his film stuff," she said as she picked out what she want to eat for lunch.
Joey nodded her head in understanding knowing that he would be busy working on his film project.
"Ugh, I hate mystery meat. Are you sure you want to take that?"
Joey looked up at the guy who was standing in front on her in the line. Apparently he must be talking to her because he had his full attention on her. Looking back at Jen, Joey could see that she must be having fun right now because she was looking at the both of them with quite an interest. Rolling her eyes, Joey turn her attention back to the guy who still had his eyes on her.
"Excuse me?"
"That meat on your plate. You're not seriously considering having that for lunch, are you?" He asked as he pointed to the meat on her plate.
Looking down at her tray, Joey didn't realize what all she grabbed. There were some peas, coleslaw, and some weird looking meat she had put on her plate. She have to admit this lunch looks disgusting. She doesn't even like peas and coleslaw for that matter. Her mind was focus on Dawson that she didn't realize what she was grabbing.
"Actually, I wasn't really hungry so I was just grabbing whatever," she said shrugging her shoulders.
The guy smile down at her as he stick out his hand for a shake. "My name's Andrew. Andrew Anderson," he said as he shook her hand.
"The name's Joey. Joey Potter," she said mocking his introduction.
"It's nice to meet you, Joey Potter," he said smiling at her mockery. "So I assume you are a Freshmen?"
"I am. Which make you a ..."
"A Junior," he said as he winked at her.
Inwardly rolling her eyes, she took the time to observe him. She have to admit the guy is really cute and he do have a killer smile. He seem to be easy in the eyes, which he does have nice blue eyes. He have sandy blonde hair. Very nice tone body, which she could tell he must work out a lot, and he sporting a perfectly good tan. A guy that looks like him must have a girlfriend around here somewhere.
"So what do you say?"
"Huh," she said as she looked at him confused. He must have asked her a question when she was staring at him like an idiot. She ignored the laughter Jen tried to hide from behind her.
"I wanted to know if you would like to eat lunch with me and my friends," he asked again in hopes that she would say yes.
Oh.
At that moment, she didn't know what to say. It would be nice to eat lunch with someone other than eating alone with Jen Lindley. "Um, where are you sitting?"
"Over there," he said as he pointed at the table where there are a bunch of guys goofing around and a girl that is looking their way; giving Joey the death glare.
Noticing the death glare her way, Joey assume that she must be the girlfriend. Not wanting to be the one to start trouble, Joey turn her attention back to Andrew. "Thanks for the offer but Jen and I already have a table."
"We do?" Jen whispered.
"Yes," Joey whispered back as she gave her a pointed look.
Shutting her mouth, Jen didn't say anything else.
Feeling a bit disappointed that she refuse his offer, he pushed his feelings aside. "Well, if you do change your mind - you know where I'll be. I guess I will see you around, Joey Potter," he said as he paid for his lunch and walk over to his table.
Jen watched him go as she shook her head in disbelief. "I can't believe that you let him go. The guy was clearly into you," she said bewildered.
Joey just gave her a look as she paid for the lunch she didn't even want. Then she proceed to look for an empty table for them to sit. All the while, Jen follow suit without saying another word. She knows when she is crossing the line. She don't want to push Joey any further. What she don't understand is why Joey doesn't seem at all interested in that guy. He's cute and seem to have eyes on Joey. So she don't see what's the problem?
Joey was working at the Ice House as she was busy wiping down tables. Today had been a slow day which there weren't that many customers. Looking up from her spot cleaning the table, she noticed Pacey walking up towards her with a huge grin on his face.
"What's that smile for," she asked as she put away the dirty dishes.
Pacey walked over to the counter and took a seat on the stool. "Nothing, it just happen to be a nice day. That's all. Oh, and if you don't mind I would like a burger and a shake," he said as he playfully smack her behind when she walk pass him.
"Pacey!" She shrieked.
He just laughed as he wait for her to place his order. He missed this. Goofing around and making fun of her. He could never get enough to just get under her skin. It's his way of foreplay. It always had been like this between them. They would go back and forth saying one snotty comment and another. He would tease her until she couldn't take it anymore. Then she would fight back just as hard only to prove to him that he couldn't get to her. Oh, but that's what he love the most about her. She got fire in her. Which is a huge turn on. Some may say that he is crazy to egg a girl on like that. But if they look at it, it's just like if you were in preschool when a boy sees a girl he like he make it a mission to make her life a living hell. He don't know why boys do that but they do. It's like the saying goes, 'you always tease the one you love.' And he find that to be the truth.
Joey placed his order in front of him. It was his usual so she know exactly how he likes his burger and what kind of shake he drink. With him being her last customer, just like that she is off the clock. Taking off her apron, she joined Pacey at the counter.
"Thanks, Jo, I really need this," he said as he took a bite of his burger.
Joey made a disgusted face as he chewed with his mouth wide open. "Eww, Pacey, that's gross," she said as she tried to push his face away from her. He was playfully sticking his chewed up burger at her face. They both was laughing and playing around when they heard a voice coming from behind them.
"Joey? Is that you?" A tall sandy blonde guy asked as he walk up towards them.
Pacey instantly stop goofing around when he took a look at the guy. It was obvious that it is someone whom he had never met before. He haven't seen him around here before, so how do he even know Joey? Looking over at Joey, Pacey could see realization flash in her eyes as she looked at the guy standing in front of them. What the hell? Who is this guy?
"Andrew," Joey said as she gave him an awkward smile. "What a surprise. What are you doing here?"
"I wanted to check out the place. I heard the food is good here," he paused for a moment, "plus I heard that you work here."
Jen, Joey thought. She just couldn't leave things alone.
"Don't you have a girlfriend," she blurted out.
Pacey looked at him with spiked interest. Yeah, do you have a girlfriend?
Andrew smile as he shook his head. "No. I don't have a girlfriend."
Oh hell!
Joey was caught off guard. She thought that that girl she saw in the cafeteria was his girlfriend. "Oh."
"Excuse me," Pacey cut in. "How do you two know each other?"
"Oh, I'm sorry. Pacey this is Andrew. Andrew this is my obnoxious friend Pacey," Joey waved off.
Pacey, on the other hand, smiled when Joey stretched the word "obnoxious" when she described him.
Andrew was the first one to respond. "It's nice to meet you, Pacey. Uh, Joey and I ran into each other in lunch today at school," he said.
"Well, it was more like we were in line and he was busy being nosy at what I was getting for lunch," Joey teased.
"Well, I was only worried about your safety. That lunch meat looked like it was ready to attack anyone who dare try to eat it," Andrew said as he smiled over at Joey.
"Well, like I said before. I really wasn't all that hungry," she said.
Pacey watched as the two of them kept going back and forth. It was something that he and Joey used to always do. Joking and teasing each other like that. If he didn't know any better he would say that Joey is actually taking a liking to this guy. If that is true then what about Dawson? Does that mean that she's moved on from him? If so, he always thought that it would be him that she would turn to. He knew that it was silly of him to think that but he did noticed little things about her. Like the fact that she stuck up for him when his father was being down on him. Even when she couldn't stand him, she was there for him. She also would try to build confidence for him. Above all that, no matter how hard he try to push her away she still was there for him. Even when he was being a jerk to her; it was nice to know that she still cared and will always be there for him. That's what made him fall even more in love with her. She can pretend that she can't stand him but he know better. Which is why he always thought that she would see that and move on to him.
"Anyways, I want to try out the food here. Do you have any suggestions what I should order?" Andrew asked.
"Yeah, you should try the burger. It's really good," Pacey said as he took a bite out of his own burger.
Joey smiled and rolled her eyes playfully as she waved Andrew over to sit at the counter. She placed a menu in front of him to look at. "The burgers are good here but if you see something else that may be of interest to you, let me know. I don't like to brag but I personally think everything here is good."
Pacey snickered as he said, "Oh really? That's funny cause I always thought that you were the bragging type." He joked.
Joey smacked him in the back of his head as he laughed with his hands up in the air with mock surrender. Ignoring him, Joey looked at Andrew innocently as she asked him sweetly, "Do you see what you like?"
"Uh, yeah. I would like to have chili fries to go plus a date Friday night. What do you say?"
Pacey stopped eating as he glanced at Joey. Seeing the shocked expression on her face he couldn't tell what she is thinking. Usually she would give some sort of hint or clue that would give her away but as he look at her now - he saw nothing.
Taken aback by his bluntness, for the first time Joey Potter was speechless. Did he just asked her out on a date? No. It was really more of a request along with the chili fries he had ordered. But still, he was interested enough to want to take her out on a date. Who is she to deny that? "Yeah, sure. I would like that," she stammered out.
Andrew smiled relief that she agreed. "Great!"
Meanwhile, Pacey felt sick all of a sudden. He had lost his appetite as he pushed his plate away from him. It was bad enough that Joey had feelings for Dawson. But now this guy comes along and swoops in on his girl! What made it even worse is the fact that she'd agreed.
"So, uh, how about we meet back here and I will pick you up at eight?"
"Yeah, that sounds great," she said already excited about their date. "Well, I guess I will be back with your order," she said as she quickly turn to go place his order.
Ever since Andrew left, Pacey and Joey hung out at the Ice House. They didn't had any plans so they figure to stick around and chat. Which was nice for a change. Even when they were just goofing off it was times like these when Joey didn't mind hanging out with Pacey. She could use a friend this week and since Dawson seem to be off the radar with his film making and all, having Pacey around is kind of nice. Who knew that she could spend some quality time with him without there being any fight. Lately they have been in good terms. What she is thankful for is the fact that he hasn't once mention about her feelings for Dawson and how he's going to enjoy teasing her about it.
"So, this Andrew guy ... do you like him?" Asked Pacey.
Joey shrugged her shoulders. "I guess, I mean he seems nice and he's not bad to look at," she teased.
Pacey rolled his eyes playfully when she said that. "What about Dawson? Last time I've checked you were into him. Have that changed?" He really want to know if Joey have actually moved on.
She knew that it would be a matter of time for him to bring up Dawson. She don't blame him, though. If she was Pacey she would want to know, too. After all, she hasn't bring up Dawson at all since she and Pacey have been hanging out. She just didn't want to dwell on him. Dawson has made his choice and moving on in his life. So should she. When Andrew came along, it was nice. It was nice to have another guy noticing her. Took an interest in her. It kind of made her feel wanted and appreciated. So has she moved on from Dawson? Well, she would like to. She still has some sort of feelings for him. That just don't go away. But she is trying to branch out a bit. Going on this date with Andrew may do the trick. It's about time that she live a little. See where it will take her.
"To be honest, Pace, I still do have feelings for Dawson. Things like that don't just go away. But, I've decided to take a chance to see how things will go with Andrew. I think I at least deserve that, right?"
Although he felt hurt, he agreed with her. He was happy to know that she decide to try to move on but did it had to be with this Andrew guy? There was something about that guy that Pacey didn't trust. Or didn't like. He couldn't put his finger on it but there was something there. Then there is the fact that Joey will always have feelings for Dawson. He knew that Dawson and Joey have history. They have this weird sort of bond that he could never understand. So how could he compete with that? He also would like to think that he and Joey had some kind of history, too. They've all been friends for a very long time. He could remember the day when he first met Joey. It was a hot summer day, the Leery's had invited his family over for a cook-out. Pacey had always loved going to the Leery's whenever they have parties and cook-outs. They always seem to know how to have a good time and to him - they have like the best parties. Unlike his family; every time they have a party it always turn out to be a disaster in the end. What makes it worst is that he always gets blame for it. It was always, Pacey you broke the vase. Pacey what did you do to the stereo? Pacey you let the dog got away. And like always, he had to clean up all the mess.
He hated it when his parents throw a party. He never know what he would get blame for next. He would admit that some of the stuff was his fault but not all of it was entirely his fault. Some things just seem to happen. In this case, it always seem to happen with him. He is to be known as the "bad seed" in the family. He always seem to have bad luck whatever he do. Nothing was ever good enough. He wasn't good enough. He try to make his parents proud of him but what good did that do? They always see him as the problem. So what was the use if they expect less from him?
So going to the Leery's when they have a party or a cook-out was his safe haven. He never seem to get in to any kind of trouble then. He could just be himself and spend time with Dawson.
This cook-out in particular was different from any other cook-out. Dawson had mentioned to him earlier that he had made a new friend a couple of days ago and his parents had invited them over. When Pacey had first heard about this, he wasn't too thrilled to say the least. He didn't like the idea of his best friend had made a new friend. Pacey didn't know what to expect. For all he know this new "friend" of Dawson's is stealing his best friend away from him. To his surprise, this new friend of Dawson's was not at all what he expected. When he first laid eyes on her everything seem to be moving in slow motion. There she was this cute little brunette running around in the yard chasing after Dawson. Pacey couldn't take his eyes off her. For the first time Pacey have a crush on a girl.
Standing there as he watched them play, he was trying to figure out how to get their attention. They both seem to be focus on whatever game they were playing. His guess is tag. Seeing as the girl was trying to catch Dawson but he was too fast for her. Noticing Pacey watching them, Dawson quickly turn before Joey had the chance to catch him as he ran over to where Pacey was standing. Seeing another boy present, Joey was curious as she followed Dawson. She remembered Dawson mention that he had a best friend. Maybe this was that friend Dawson was talking about.
As they reached him, Dawson quickly introduce them. Out of an act of kindness, Joey reach out a hand to Pacey for them to shake. Not use to that kind of gesture especially coming from a girl, Pacey just looked at her and bust out laughing. Getting angry, Joey just glared at him as he held his stomach as a result from laughing so hard. The more he laughed the angrier she got as she kicked him hard in the shin. With that action, Pacey stopped laughing as he fail to the ground groaning while holding his leg. Glaring up at her, he wanted nothing more than to teach her a lesson. Watching the two of them, Dawson try to think of a way to keep the peace. This is not how he thought they would react. He hoped that they would get along.
"Come on, guys. Be nice."
"Well, he started it," Joey said as she pointed a finger at Pacey.
"What did I do?" He really didn't know what he did wrong. So what he laughed. He thought it was funny.
"You are a jerk! That's what," she couldn't believe the nerve of him.
"Okay you guys! Let's just forget about it and play a game. How about we play hide and seek? You guys go hide while I'll count to ten," Dawson said in hopes that they will agree.
To his surprise, they agreed as Pacey stood up ignoring the shooting pain in his leg as he got ready to hide. He knew exactly where to go - that is wherever she will be. It's time for payback and he's not taking any prisoners. As soon as Dawson started to count, Joey ran quickly to the shed with Pacey trailing right behind her. Not realizing that he was following her, Joey opened the shed door as she quickly went inside. In the process of closing the door, Pacey caught up to her as he held the door from being shut then let himself in. Smiling that wicked smile of his, Joey glared at him as she wondered what he is up too. Not giving her a chance to speak, Pacey grab a hold of both her arms as he pulled her to him and in a quick motion - he planted a kiss on her lips. Pushing him off her, Joey made a disgusted face as she quickly wiped her mouth.
"Ewe, that is disgusting! What did you do that for," she yelled.
Pacey smiled as he shrugged. "To get you back for what you did." That wasn't all. He wanted to kiss her. He had ever since he first laid eyes on her. What made him feel a bit uneasy is the fact that he's only six and a girl made him feel this way. What was wrong with him? Seeing the disgusted look she was giving him, Pacey bolted out the door leaving her standing there with her thoughts.
Ever since then, the two of them have been at it with each other. There were a lot of bickering, bantering and teasing one another. Not one of them ever told Dawson what had happened between them that summer when they first met. It was their own dirty little secret ...
Thinking back at that moment, Pacey had realized that that had been their first kiss that they shared. Despite how the kiss happen, it was the best first kiss he ever had. He wouldn't change it for the world.
Noticing the goofy smile on his face, Joey looked at Pacey with confusion wondering what he is thinking about. "What? What are you smiling at," she asked.
"Nothing," he said, "I was just thinking about the time when we first met."
"Oh." She said with that knowing look in her eyes. "That was the day when you ambushed me."
"I did not ambush you," he denied.
"Oh please, Pace, don't try to deny it. You most certainly did ambush me. Admit it," she said.
"Okay, okay. I ambushed you," he conceded. "You happy now?"
"Very," she smiled sweetly at him. Proud that she finally got him to admit it.
Pacey just shook his head as they laughed. It feel good for a change for them to joke about this. He like to see this side of Joey. More care free. Not uptight all the time. It's nice. He hoped that she would stay this way. He love to see her laugh and the fact that it is him that is making her laugh.
Finishing the last touch of lighting the candle, Dawson wanted this night to be perfect since he spend all week planning it. With him being busy with his film project and planning the perfect date for Jen, he could finally have a chance to relax and enjoy this day now that it has come. It turn out to be a beautiful night and the stars were out shinning brightly in the night air.
Looking at the time on his watch, he realize it is time to meet up with Jen. They were suppose to meet at a café for their date tonight. They figure it was a good idea to meet there since Jen's grandmother doesn't approve of them dating. In order for her to go on this date, Jen had told her grams that she will be hanging with friends from school at a café. Her grams seem to take her word for it cause the next thing he know he had got a call from Jen stating that she will meet him there.
Happy that they got away with it, Dawson had stopped at the estate he had found a couple years back that some old rich guy had owned. The old man had passed away some time ago and he didn't have any relatives to leave his property to. No one has been around to claim the estate so it has been sitting here. When Dawson first saw this place he thought it was beautiful. He'd come here quite often to think or to just be alone. He never really told anyone about this place. It was his secret spot. Now tonight, he want to share it with someone special.
This place has a romantic setting that Dawson knew would be perfect for their date and hopefully for his first kiss.
Approaching the café where Jen is waiting for him, Dawson couldn't help the huge grin that spread on his face when he spotted her. She looked so beautiful in her blue summer dress with her nice blonde curls cascade down to her shoulders. Looking at her now, he had never been so excited in his life like he is now. Seeing him making his way to her, she smiled as she threw her arms around him. Enjoying the feel of her in his arms, Dawson held her tightly to him as he never wanted to let her go. At this very moment, he knew that he doesn't want this night to end.
"So ... where are you taking me," Jen asked as they walked hand-to-hand.
"It's a surprise," he said with a mischievous smile on his face.
Jen looked at him as she wonder what he have up his sleeve. Looking around at her surroundings, she noticed a beautiful pond in view with a couple of swans floating around. As they continue walking further up, there were tall white pillars with vines wrapped around going up the pillars. As she looked straight ahead, she noticed a faint glow in the distance as she could hear waterfalls flowing down in a fountain.
Reaching their destination, Jen couldn't believe her eyes. There was a candle lite table set for two by the fountain. There were red rose pedals scattered on the table cloth and some on the stoned ground which lead up to and around the fountain. There were some floating in the fountain with some more candle light placed around the fountain which bring a beautiful glow. Behind the fountain was another beautiful pond with more white swans.
The place was romantic.
Dawson walked over to a small round table with a radio sitting on it. He pressed the play button and a soft music began to fill the air. Dawson then turned towards Jen as he slowly walked over towards her. He grabbed a hold of her hand as he gently pull her towards him, then proceed to wrap his arms around her waist and began to move for a slow dance.
Jen was at awe and impressed with all the thought and work he had put into this. No one has ever done something special like this for her before. Being here with Dawson made her feel very special. He made her feel special. Lowering her head on his shoulder, she held on to him tightly as she wished that this night would never end.
Feeling her head resting on his shoulder, Dawson slowly wrapped his arm around her as he held her tight to him. This is the moment. The perfect moment he's been waiting for. The moment he had worked so hard for. Just like the song that is currently playing. I Could Not Ask For More by Edwin McCain.
Pausing his movement for a moment, Dawson looked down at Jen. Wanting to know why he had stopped, Jen looked up at him with a confused expression on her face. The look quickly changed as she saw the look in his eyes. Want. Need. Passion. Her heart stopped for a brief moment as she saw him lowering his head towards her. Wanting his lips desperately press to hers, she subconsciously wet her lips ready for his to touch hers.
Seeing her wet that deliciously plum lips of hers, he couldn't take it anymore as he closed his eyes and landed his lips on hers. Feeling their lips touch and connect, he starts moving it slowly against hers. He love the way how her lips feel against his. It was soft. He could also taste a bit of wild cherry flavor from her lips. He likes the taste of it.
Feeling his lips rub against hers, Jen let out a low moan. His lips felt good pressed to hers. Wanting the kiss to go even deeper, Jen thrust her tongue into his which cause him to open his mouth to her. As soon as her tongue touched his, they began to kiss passionately.
Joey was sitting at the Ice House as she waited for Andrew. It felt weird for her to be here when she is not working. The only time she ever be at the Ice House is when she is working. Only once in a great while she will come here to hang out with Dawson and Pacey but that rarely ever happen. Ever since Bessie got pregnant, Joey had been taking double shifts. She didn't want her sister to be stressing out so she figure that she and Bodie could take over while her sister rest. But Bessie is stubborn like herself, insist that she do something. She couldn't just lay around when she have a business to run. That's what she had told both Joey and Bodie when they have offer to help out more. In the end, they all got what they want. Bessie still get the chance to work without stressing as Joey and Bodie take care of the hard work when it gets crazy.
Now it was a slow night and she is off for the night. Which happen to be a good thing since she had agreed to this date with Andrew tonight. She doesn't know what he had plan or where they were going. He didn't say. Not knowing what to wear she decide to go casual.
Not realizing that someone had sat beside her, Joey looked over to see Pacey sitting next to her. To her surprise, she wondered what he was doing here? By the look on his face, she could tell that he must of had a bad day. Knowing that it might have something to do with his father, Joey stood up as she knew exactly what he need. Walking over to the counter where the pies rested. Joey cut a piece of peach pie, which is his favorite, and handed it over to him.
Looking up at her as she held the pie in front of him, Pacey smiled at her as he took the pie from her.
"Ruff night," she asked as she retook her seat next to him.
"Yeah, it's my pops. He's always on my case about something or other. You know, same old same old. I'm never good enough for him."
Feeling sorry for him, Joey placed a hand on his. "Stop it. That's not true. You got to stop being so hard on yourself. You are not a failure. He's wrong for treating you the way he does. It's a shame that he doesn't see you the way that I do," she said not realizing how much her words affect him.
And how do you see me, he thought as he looked at her with admiration.
Noticing that he didn't say a word she went on, "Pace, I've watched you grow over the years. And yes, you and I may not have always gotten along but I always knew that you were destine for greatness despite our differences. I believe in you, Pace. And you should, too."
Pride. That's what he felt at that moment. Hearing her believed in him had filled him up with pride. God, how he love this girl! Forgetting the fact that she was there waiting on another guy, Pacey couldn't fight the urge to just grab her and kiss her. That is all he has been thinking about. Ever since that night at the festival, he couldn't stop thinking about that almost kiss. Maybe this is his chance. He did it once before but that was a long time ago. And it didn't quite end well but it was worth it. Everything with her is worth it. Just when he was about to lean in he heard someone clear their throat from behind them.
Pulling away from her, Pacey turn to see Andrew standing there looking at the both of them. From what he could tell, he did not look pleased at all.
"Andrew!" Joey exclaimed as she stood up quickly to join him.
Pacey inwardly rolled his eyes as he saw Andrew possessively wrap his arm around Joey's waist as he drew her close to him. Seeing the smug look he was currently giving him made Pacey's jaw clench tight as he try his hardest to keep his cool.
"Was I interrupting something?" Andrew asked as he kept his eyes focused on Pacey.
Yes!
"No, it's fine. We were just talking," Joey said as she looked over at Pacey apologetically.
Pacey understood as he took the hint that he should go. "Well, I'm gonna take this to go." He held up the pie to show as he walked up to the counter to ask for a box. On his way out, he paused by Joey as he looked at her for a brief moment. That look he was giving her told her to be careful and then he took off.
"Where are we going?"
"To a beach party."
"Who's throwing it?"
"Some of my friends from school."
"Cool."
She should have known that they would be going to the beach. A thought had crossed her mind back at the night she was at Dawson's. They were watching a classic movie and she had joked about how cliché the scene in the movie was where a guy and a women were at the beach kissing in the sand. Then she remembered what Dawson had said to her. He told her that that could be her and some guy. Looking over at Andrew, she never thought that he would be that guy. Dawson did said that life could surprise you. Something unexpected could happen. But so what if they were going to the beach. It doesn't mean that she is going to have that moment. She don't know what he has plan. Maybe he didn't plan on kissing her tonight. And she will be fine with that. All she looking to do is having a good time.
Interrupting her thoughts, Andrew asked, "Should I be worried?"
Looking up at him confused, "Worried about what?"
"You and that Pacey guy."
"What? No! Of course not. We're just friends. That's all. Trust me. You have nothing to be worry about."
Andrew smiled at her words as he wrap his arm around her and pull her close to him. Joey laid her head on his shoulder as they continue to walk to the beach party.
The beach was packed with full of people as music was blasting. People were dancing and drinking. Some were out skinny dipping. Everyone was just basically having a time of their lives.
Joey, on the other hand, was off on her own drinking the spiked punch that she held clutching in her hand. Feeling a bit left out, she sat on the sand away from everyone. When she and Andrew first arrived at the beach, Andrew had introduce her to his friends. They all seemed nice up until that girl showed up. Joey instantly recognized where she saw her before. It was that same girl she thought was Andrew's girlfriend. The one who was giving her dirty looks in the cafeteria. Joey wondered if there is something going on between her and Andrew that she don't know about. He told her that she wasn't his girlfriend but still, the girl kept giving Joey the death glare. Especially when she saw that Joey and Andrew were holding hands.
"Joey, I would like for you to meet my best friend Stacey," said Andrew as he was the first to let go of Joey's hand as he proceed to walk over to Stacey. Oblivious to the looks that Stacey were currently giving Joey, Andrew gave Stacey a hug and then turn to face Joey with one arm still hung over Stacey's shoulder. "Stacey, I would like for you to meet Joey," he said.
Putting on a fake smile, Stacey waved to Joey. "Hi. It's nice to finally meet you. Andy, has been talking a lot about you," she said smoothly.
"It's nice to meet you, too," Joey said feeling a bit uncomfortable. Andrew has been talking about her?
"Hey, you don't mind if I steal him for a bit, do you?" She asked sweetly but Joey knew better. She wasn't trying to be nice at all. She was just putting up a front with Andrew being there watching the both of them.
Pushing her true feelings aside, Joey figure if Stacey could play that game then so could she. "No, not at all," Joey said just as sweetly.
"Are you sure?" Andrew asked.
"Yes. Go. I will be fine," she said.
"I won't be long," he said as Stacey dragged him away.
Joey watched as the two of them walked off together. What made it worse is the fact that they actually do look good together. Here is the first guy, beside Dawson, that she actually was starting to like. Only for it to be taken away from her. She's not stupid. She knows that there is history there between them.
It's too bad.
She was starting to hope that Andrew would be the one to help her move on from Dawson. When she first met Andrew, she wasn't sure if she was ready to start seeing other people. She had just realized her feelings for Dawson only for it to be taken away by some Yankee. Now that she decide to move on with Andrew, the same thing is happening again. Only this time it's his best friend. How could she compete with that. She of all people knows the bond between two best friends.
She my have feelings for her best friend Dawson but sadly enough he doesn't share the same feelings in return. She could see the exact same thing with Andrew and Stacey. Andrew may not know it yet but it is obviously clear that Stacey has feelings for him. What Joey is not certain of is does Andrew share the same feelings, too? It is obvious that he cares for Stacey. But he also seem to take an interest in her as well. Why else would he ask her to come out on a date with him? And to his friends party at that?
So here she is sitting on the sand alone while looking at the water as the waves come crashing down. She is now currently on her third cup of that spiked punch they were serving. It has been about thirty minutes since Stacey stole Andrew away from her.
What in God's name could they possibly be doing, she thought.
She was starting to get a little impatient. Just when she was just about to call it quits, a friend of Andrew's she recognized from earlier, was heading towards her way. Not wanting him to think that she isn't having a good time - although so far she wasn't - she put on a fake smile as he sat down next to her.
Joey took the time to study his profile. He's not bad looking. In fact, he's gorgeous! Like Andrew, he has nice piercing blue eyes. He has blonde hair but it is in a buzz cut. He has nice jaw structure that fits his face perfectly. And very looking kissable lips. She watched as he took a sip from his cup. Then he looked over at her and smiled. My God, he has a gorgeous smile, she thought. What is his name again? Todd? Tom?
"I couldn't help but noticed you sitting here all by yourself. Where did Andy go?"
Joey shrugged as she said, "Don't know. Stacey wanted to borrow him for a bit. He said he wouldn't be long but it's almost an hour now."
With the mention of Stacey he frown a bit but quickly recovered when he noticed the look Joey was giving him. Smiling he quickly reply, "I'm sure it's nothing. Stacey is just probably showing him her new ride her parents just gotten her. If I remember correctly, she kept going on and on about wanting to show Andy her new car."
Not saying a word, Joey nodded with understanding.
Wanting to change the topic, he asked, "How do you like the party?"
"It's ok, I guess. Didn't think that there would be this many people, though."
He chuckled as he said, "Yeah, our parties always tend to get a little crazy. There usually be more people attending than we let on. But it's fun, though. I always say 'the more the merrier.'"
She smiled as she looked out at the crowd. Everyone were laughing and enjoying themselves. She tried to scan the crowd to see if she could spot Andrew anywhere but he is no where to be found. She hope to God he didn't blow her off.
"Hey, don't worry. I'm sure he's out there looking for you," he said as he too was looking out at the crowd of people. "Why don't we go look for him. I know where Stacey parked her car."
Just when Joey was about to agree with him, she heard Andrew calling out to her. Happy to see him running towards them, Joey quickly stood as she brush the sand off her butt.
Andrew stopped short as he saw his friend sitting there. "Thomas, Jake was looking for you. He was saying something about playing Beer Pong."
Thomas! That's his name, Joey quickly thought to herself. Happy to have that off her chest. She had been trying to figure out his name since he came to talk to her.
Thomas quickly stood up as soon as Andrew mention the word 'Beer Pong.' Which happen to be his favorite game. "It was nice talking to you, Joey," he said as he hurried off.
Shaking his head at his friends eagerness, Andrew turned his attention back to Joey. "I'm sorry it took me longer than I thought."
"What happened? Is everything ok?"
"Everything is fine. She just wanted to show me her new car and talk," he said as he walked over to her.
Sitting her back down as he took a seat next to her, Andrew reached out as he grab a hold of her hand. "You don't have to worry about her. You are the one I want to be with," he said as he kissed the back of her hand.
Smiling, Joey thought maybe there is a chance for her after all. She was looking at the water ahead of them when she felt his finger on her chin as he turn her head to face him. She noticed the look he was giving her as he lean in and kiss her.
An hour has passed since they shared that kiss and already Stacey has her hands all over him. After the kiss they decide to join his friends to play Beer Pong. A few minutes into the game, Joey was starting to get the hang of it. She never played Beer Pong before and she find herself quite liking the game. She was never the type to drink beer but tonight was an exception.
In the first round, she and Andrew was paired up against Stacey and Jake. Andrew ran through the rules with her on how to play the game. The rules seem simple enough so Joey felt that she has nothing to worry about. She got this! Since it was her first time playing the game, they all decide that she should go first.
Holding the ping pong ball in her hand, Joey look out at the setting of the table. All the cups were arranged on both end of the table in a triangle form. According to the rules that Andrew gave her - all she has to do is bounce the ball on the table and hopefully the ball will land in one of the opposing teams cup. If the ball end up in one of their cups, then they would have to take a drink. Sounds easy enough but when she took a shot, the ball bounced off the table and landed on the ground while Stacey - which happen to be her turn next - quickly bounced her ball and landed in Joey's cup. Which cause Joey to have to take a drink from her cup.
The game continue on as Joey was starting to enjoy herself. She had to admit, Stacey and Jake are both good players. Lost in the game, Joey and Andrew were getting into the rhythm of keeping up with Stacey and Jake. It was a close game but in the end Stacey and Jake won the game.
Since Stacey and Jake won the first round of the game, they get to play again but have the privilege to either stay with their teammate or pair off with someone else. Knowing Stacey she was quick to want to pair off with someone else and of course it had to be with Andrew. All the while, Jake choose Thomas as his new partner.
So now once again she is sitting there alone as she watch her date and his BFF playing a drinking game together. What made her feel sick is the fact that Stacey is openly flirting with Andrew and he's just letting her. It wasn't too long ago when Andrew told her that she is the one he wanted to be with and she have nothing to worry about. Then he had kissed her. What was that all about if he didn't mean any of it? From the looks of it he is openly flirting right back and it seems that he is leading Stacey on. What the hell!
She know that they had a little too much to drink but that is no excuse for him to behave like that in front of her. Have he forgotten that she is even sitting there watching them? Plus not to mention the smug look on Stacey's face she is giving Joey every once in a while. Feeling a bit uncomfortable, Joey is not sure she can handle this charade much longer. Plus, she hate the pity looks that Thomas is throwing her way.
Deciding to do something about their flirt fest, Joey stood up and was about to march over to them only to stop short when she saw Stacey grab a hold of Andrew and start kissing him. Not only did she kiss him but what hurt the most is the fact that Andrew had kissed her back. He didn't bother to stop her or push her away. In fact, he grabbed a hold of her and pulled her closer into him as he hungrily kissed her back!
Blinking back the tears that was threatening to come out, Joey couldn't stay there much longer. Turning quickly in the process of fleeing out of there she bump into someone who was holding a drink in his hand and accidently made him spill his drink all over himself. Sending him a quiet apology as she continue to weave through the gathering crowd she didn't stop when she heard Thomas calling after her. All she know is that she have to get out of there. This whole date has been nothing but a sham. He never really cared about her. He was just using her. What a jerk!
Leaving the beach, Joey kept running as tears were pooling down her cheeks. She never felt so humiliated. She actually thought that he really liked her. Halfway down the street she notice a figure walking ahead. Realizing who it was, she never felt so happy to see a friendly face.
Dawson was on his way home when he spotted Joey running towards him. Seeing the state that she is in he quickly turn into his protective mode. Wondering what had happened to her, he quickly met her halfway. "Joey, what happened?" Concern written all over his face.
Joey couldn't speak with all the sobs escaping her with all her crying.
"Joey, who did this to you? Did someone hurt you?"
Sniffing, Joey said, "Can you just hold me?"
Without hesitation, Dawson quickly grab a hold of her and wrap her in his arms as he try to soothe her. "Don't worry, Jo. I'm here."
AN: I apologize for any mistakes, I've wanted to get this out. There are certain things in this chapter that I do like. I've always wanted to know how Pacey and Joey first met and how did all the banter started. So I took it upon myself to come up with the idea of how Jacey met. I hope you all like how I went about it.
Episode Recap:
Dawson/Joey: They still kept with their ritual of movie night in Dawson's bedroom. They were watching an old romantic film. It got them talking about kissing. Dawson had plans to kiss Jen and taking her out on a date. Dawson also joked to Joey about her possibly being kissed at the beach just like the woman in the movie. Only to find out that it did happen but it didn't end well. She ran into Dawson and he was there to comfort her. I like this because I wanted to show this bittersweet moment that they have. The friendship that they share.
Dawson/Jen: They finally had their official date. Dawson also finally got to kiss the girl. Dawson been planning this perfect moment and it finally came. He took her to this estate this old rich guy had own but he died a couple years ago and didn't have any family to leave it too. So the estate has been sitting there and Dawson found it. He has been going there to think or be alone, he decide it would be the perfect place to have his date with Jen.
Pacey/Joey: I love writing their scenes. I love the friendship that they have. I wanted to show even after that awkward moment at the festival, they still manage to act civil and don't let it get to them. Since this chapter is all about kiss, I always wanted Jacey to be each others first kiss. I had this idea that they shared their first kiss when they first met and never told Dawson about it. As the series progress, they will be sharing many more firsts *wink wink*.
