A/N: GUESS WHO'S BACK AFTER OVER A YEAR. I swear, it doesn't seem like that much time has gone by until I look at the 'last updated' thingy. Whoops. Sorry, guys. I'll be back to regular updates soon! Just waiting for school to slow back down :) Shouldn't be too long now!
They broke apart. When had his hand found the back of her neck? Alice felt a twinge as its presence vanished, but the twinge was soon replaced by a sudden beat of her heart as Jasper's thumb began to stroke her cheek.
"You sure know the way to a woman's heart, Mr. Hale," Alice teased, coiling a lock of his hair around her finger. "Good literature, musical talent, and the best view on the RMS Titanic."
"I think you're guilty for that last one, darlin'." A slight smile played at his lips. Alice tried not to blush.
"And," he continued, "I like to think my astounding kissing abilities are worthy to be added to that list."
Alice smirked. "Don't flatter yourself." Even though you have every reason to, Alice added to herself, her heart still fluttering.
"How could I not," said Jasper, "when I've made such a beautiful woman look at me like that?"
"Look at you like what, exactly?" Alice asked, subconsciously trying to wipe whatever that look was off her face.
Jasper's hand locked onto the back of her neck once more, and the hand on her lower back pulled her closer to him. Alice let out an involuntary gasp and she felt her eyes widen.
Jasper chuckled. "Like that." She needed no more explanation.
It was amazing the influence this man had over her emotions. It was as though he could control her pulse, how much blood rushed to her cheeks, and the impulses of her brain all at once.
"Let's go for a stroll," Alice suggested suddenly, her hand reaching for his. "Along the deck. It's nearly lunch time. We won't have too much company."
"Won't your family miss you?"
Alice shook her head. "I don't believe we had lunch arrangements for the day. I'm sure Esme is staying in bed today, and Carlisle wouldn't leave her side. That gives Edward and Bella a chance to sneak off. I don't think they've even noticed I'm gone. Is Rose expecting you?"
Jasper shook her head. "She's off powdering her nose with a few other gals. Talking about how her wedding dress is going to be the talk of the town. 'Simple and chic, that's what's in nowadays!'" He imitated her exaggerated tone perfectly. Alice laughed.
"I think a proper stroll is in order, then." She untangled herself from his hold. "You owe me a proper rematch."
And, suddenly, she was yards in front of him, her skirts flying around her ankles. Jasper caught the faintest hint of a playful "catch me if you can!" before he took off after her.
A/N: Obviously, this is REALLY short, but I'm not sure how much I'll be able to write between now and whenever else, and I was kind of desperate to get something in to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Titanic's launch.
May all those who perished in the tragedy of the Titanic rest well and in peace. Your bravery and stories have not been forgotten, and never will be. You are all heroes.