Chapter 17
Rosemay looked into Elizabeth's eyes as they walked down the hallway. Rosemary had gym with them. They were lucky today. The gym teacher was in the office after a fight between two male students in the previous class. Today was a free day. Some played basketball or another game while others sat on the bleachers. Rosey sat with Elizabeth, Jack, Connie, and Steph.
"I still can't believe he didn't date anyone." Steph stated.
"Oh, trust me, many tried, but he just wasn't interested. He was just interested in hanging out with friends playing the guitar."
"Wait, you play the guitar?" Elizabeth turned her head to see Jack. He reached for her hand, and she welcomed it.
"Good grief. Rosey, please just stop talking."
"Come on Jack…Elizabeth needs to know these things about you if you're dating."
"Remember Elizabeth, I told you that I learned the guitar when we were at the café for the first time?"
Elizabeth shrugged her shoulders. Connie laughed. "Jack, she was only consumed with you sitting beside her." She teased.
"Connie!" Everyone laughed at Elizabeth's shyness.
"We are dating, Rosey." Jack insisted.
"I just can't believe it." Rosey shook her head. "I would have never thought you would date anyone in high school. How many times did you say that you had that rule?"
"Probably as much as Elizabeth did." Connie stated.
"You had the same rule?" Rosey asked.
"Oh yes…I wasn't going to date anyone."
"Then how in the world did you two begin to date?"
"Well…" Steph began. Over the next few minutes, Jack, Elizabeth, Steph, and Connie tagged teamed the story. Jack began from the beach all the way through today. Each would jump in if they wanted a specific section of the story told. Rosey just sat dumbfounded at everything she was told. She just couldn't believe her proclaimed brother would date.
"Mrs. Thornton and Mr. Thornton is ok with this?" Rosey asked when Elizabeth finished the last part of the story.
"I'm beginning to think that Ma and Pa like her more than they like me." Jack softly stated.
"Jack!" Elizabeth exclaimed. She secretly liked the fact that Jack's mother and father seemed to like her.
Rosemary just sat on the bleachers trying to take everything in. She could only shake her head. None of this made sense to her. Even though the girls just met her, they could see the struggle she was having. They were beginning to wonder if she was hoping that she and Jack were more than just friends.
"Are you ok?" Connie asked.
"I am. I just can't believe 'Mr. I'm hunky and don't know it and won't date anyone' is dating someone." Rosemary could only shake her head. "No one back home is going to believe this."
"Really?"
"Oh Elizabeth…you must understand. There were a few girls that really tried, but Jack was so adamant in his rule. We all thought he was going to join the priesthood or something. He would hang out with a group with some of those girls, but nothing even close to approaching a relationship. He never led them on or anything, but that didn't stop them from trying. Jack and I hung out and did a few things with just us and maybe a couple of other girls that were good friends, but he never did anything alone with the girls that were chasing him. He never spent any alone time with them. He just didn't want to lead them on and give them false hope."
Elizabeth leaned back an inch to take in what Rosey just said. That was completely different to how she was with Charles. It kind of made sense why Jack was questioning her relationship with Charles. While they hadn't dated, she was beginning to wonder if she gave Charles false hope in how much they hung out together with groups and with just each other. She did make it clear to him that they weren't going to date. Her mind was brought back to the present when Steph asked her question.
"So…were you one of the girls that wanted to date him?" She nodded toward Jack. The girls were trying to size up Jack's and Rosey's relationship.
"Oh heavens no, Connie. Jack is my brother. We grew up together. We met in the first grade when my dad moved to Buxton for his job. We became good friends and have been ever since. We hung out together. I've saved him countless times from a girl who wanted a little too much from him, and he…" Her voice went silent with the memory.
"I'm sorry." Elizabeth asked.
"So, I actually talked Elizabeth into going to the football game with me this Friday." Jack stated trying to change the subject. He knew that memory was difficult for Rosemary.
"How in the world did you do that?" Connie asked stunned.
Elizabeth caught on to what Jack did. She noticed a distinct change in Rosey's demeanor. There must have been a story there. She looked toward Jack. She was able to read his expression. She slightly nodded her head that she understood.
"Well, you did ask me out on a date. Who could turn that down?" Elizabeth flashed Jack a smile that almost melted him.
"They have it bad." Rosemary whispered.
"They're so cute together." Steph said.
"It's almost disgusting." Connie stated. "It's so sweet you may get a cavity."
"And what about you little missy?" Elizabeth challenged her friend.
"What?" Connie asked innocently.
"Steven." Elizabeth gave her the best friend knowing look.
"Oh…"
"Who's Steven?" Rosey asked.
Connie went into a short version of who Steven was. While they weren't dating yet, they are talking every day. The rest of the gym class was with the five of them sitting and continuing talking. Elizabeth, Steph, and Connie did think that Rosemary was over the top, but she did seem friendly. Elizabeth thought she was an odd match for Jack. Jack wasn't loud or flamboyant like Rosey was, but they did seem to enjoy each other's company. It was easy to see their friendship.
Charles shot basketball with some of the guys. He kept a close eye on Elizabeth. He flinched when she would hold Jack's hand. The loving looks between the couple made his stomach churn. He just couldn't understand his best friend. They haven't talked too much with each other lately. When they did, he would always become frustrated with her. Elizabeth just wouldn't listen to him when he warned her.
…
"Hey. Did you have a good day?" Steven asked as he walked up to Connie's locker at the end of the school day.
"Hey…I did. You?"
"Yeah…"
Connie could tell Steven was a little nervous. He was rubbing his hands in front of him. She thought he was cute, being all nervous and all.
"Connie…I was wanting to ask you something."
"Sure. What is it?"
"Well…I was wondering…" He paused for a moment trying to swallow with a dry mouth. "Are you busy this Friday night? There is a home football game. Would you like to go with me?"
"Like a date?" Connie asked nervously. "Or with a group?"
"Well…a date. We can eat before the game. Go to the game together. I'm assuming we may sit with friends, but we would be together. I would pick you up and take you home after."
"That sounds nice. I would love that."
"Really?"
"Yes."
…
"Hey Chris." Tom stated.
"Yes, Mr. Thornton. What may I do for you?"
"Let's take a walk for a moment."
"Sure, boss."
Tom and Chris walked down the long hallway outside of their offices. Tom wanted to check with him.
"How are you feeling with the changed travel routes with Mr. Thatcher?"
"Good. I believe the different routes is beneficial."
"Great, and the extra man in the passenger seat?"
"Better with an extra set of eyes. I can concentrate on just driving. The passenger is responsible to look around and notice things."
"Good. I would like for you to pick someone and train them on how to drive. You are the best evasive driver I know. Would you be comfortable doing that? Maybe take an hour or two a day and train another driver?"
"Sure. Do you have someone in mind?"
"Any thoughts?"
"Stacey." Chris immediately answered. "She is very teachable and eager to learn. I believe she would be a good person for this."
"Fine. She will fall under you. Train her and work her in to a short rotation with you. You are the primary driver."
"Yes sir."
…
Elizabeth walked up to Jack when he was looking for a book in his locker. He didn't know she was coming up behind him. She reached out and touched his back. Jack jumped and yelled when she touched him. He quickly turned around to see a shocked and then giggling Elizabeth.
"Are you always such a scaredy cat?" She had trouble asking the question through her giggles. Jack loved the playful side of Elizabeth. He didn't like being scared, but he did like her mischievous nature. Her giggles reached through his chest and touched his heart.
"I'm not a scaredy cat!" He playfully huffed with great exaggeration.
"Sure…you're…not…" She smiled proudly.
"Looks like you have had a good day?"
"Why yes Jackie Boy…I have had a great day."
"Good grief, why do you still remember that? I call you Bella and Doll Face. Yet, you call me Jackie Boy." He shook his head.
She leaned her shoulder against his. "I think you'll live. Do you have any plans?"
"Not really. You?"
"Nope."
"Would you like to go to Abagail's for a milkshake or something?"
Her smile gave him her answer.
"Perfect." His all too knowing grin pulled here in for only a moment.
"I didn't say anything." Defended Elizabeth.
"You don't have too. Your expression told me you wanted to go with me."
"And how do you know that?" She playfully sassed with her hand on her hip.
Her tone and posture took a little more of his heart. He was really captivated by this woman. She knew how to capture him without even trying to. He just couldn't stop falling for this girl.
"Come on Doll Face." He reached for her hand. She gladly accepted it and they turned to the hall leading to the front doors.
As they walked down the hall, Jack had to fall in step behind Elizabeth. For some odd reason, everyone was just hanging in the hallway after school just talking. There were so many people that he had to walk behind her. After a few steps, he looked down and lost complete control. His eyes immediately found her bottom. He wasn't intending to look at her bottom. Once he looked at it, however, he couldn't take his eyes off it. He thought her backside was just perfect. The old song, Baby Got Her Blue Jeans On, by Mel McDaniels instantly came to mind. He tried to look away, but he just couldn't force his eyes off her. He wasn't sure how hard he was actually trying. He watched her sway her hips for a few steps when she stopped because of the large group of people blocking the hall. He was concentrating on her bottom so much. He wasn't paying attention that she stopped walking. He bumped into her back. He reached for her to keep her from falling forward on her face.
"I'm so sorry, Elizabeth. Are you ok?"
She didn't say anything until she regained her balance.
"What were you doing?"
Jack's face immediately turned red. He wasn't wanting to tell her that he wasn't paying attention because he was too consumed at watching her backside as she walked. He reached for the back of his neck and began rubbing it.
She looked at him. She knew that was his little tick that he did unconsciously when he was nervous.
"Wasn't you watching?"
He could only nod his head. He couldn't say anything.
"Didn't you see me stop walking?"
He shook his head no.
"Are you ok?"
He nodded his head. She was a little confused why he wasn't saying anything. She continued to look at him for a few moments. She just couldn't figure out why he was rubbing his neck and not saying anything.
Finally, Jack broke his silence. "I'm sorry, Elizabeth. I just didn't notice you stopped walking. Are you ok?"
"Yes, I'm fine. I think you just startled me a little bit. You were right behind me…" Her voice trailed off when she heard her words. She thought it through for a moment. Jack noticed the look on her face change. A very faint smile began to form at the corners of her mouth. "Jack…were you looking at my backside?"
Jack's face got even redder at her question. She smiled knowing she had that effect on him. She never liked it when guys would stare at her, but for some reason, it was just different with Jack. It made her feel good that she captured Jack's eyes. It didn't feel wrong or dirty. She freely admitted to herself that she enjoyed looking at him, though she wouldn't admit that to him. Her smile grew even more when he tried to change the subject.
"Are you ready for that milkshake?"
"I am." She reached for his hand. Without even thinking about it, she squeezed his hand three times. She lowered her head when he repeated the loving act.
"Hey, what happened to Rosemary? When we were talking in gym, I could tell something happened.
"Yeah…"
…
Connie sat in her car after Steven walked her to it and then walked away. She immediately pulled out her phone and pulled up the small group chat with her friends.
C – OH…MY…GOSH…! You're never going to believe it
S – What
E – What
C – Steven just asked me out!
E – That's great!
S – I told you!
C – I can't believe it! He is picking me up for the game on Friday
E – I'm so happy for you!
"Hey, Steven just asked Connie out to the game on Friday."
"Oh, that's great. I knew he was into her. I was just waiting for him to ask her."
"Did you know about this?"
"I knew he wanted to ask her, but I didn't know when he was going to."
Elizabeth tightened her hold on Jack's arm. "So…"
Jack took in a deep breath. "Well, you basically know my history with Rosey. We're good friends. She was in the theater group at Buxton High. There we this guy named Stan that was in the lead opposite her. Rosey has a gift for the dramatic."
"I can easily see that."
Jack laughed. "One day she came over to the house. We sat outside at the firepit to hang out. She took her long sleeve shirt off because it was warm with the fire. She had a short sleeved shirt on under it. I saw a couple of bruises on her upper bicep. I asked her about it, and she said it was nothing."
"Was this guy mean to her?"
"She said no, but I thought the bruises looked like someone grabbed her too tightly." Jack opened the front door for her and followed her through it. When he took her hand again before they walked down the steps, he continued with the story. "The next night was Friday, and she had a date with him. I practically forced her to tell me where they were going. So, I borrowed Pa's truck and followed them. Stan knew of me, but he didn't know me. We never met before."
Elizabeth opened her car door and threw her backpack in the back seat. Jack leaned against the door when Elizabeth closed it. She leaned against the door beside Jack. Their shoulders were touching.
"After dinner, they went to the park. Rosey told me that he was taking her to the movies after dinner. Instead, he parked at the back of the park and tried to force himself on her. She was yelling at him to leave her alone when I opened the door. I punched him and then took Rosemary to my Pa's truck. I went back and held Stan down until the cops came. The police came and arrested him for attempted date rape."
"Oh my gosh Jack…that's horrible."
"Yeah. It really shook her up. As far as I know, she hasn't been on a date since."
"Poor Rosemary."
"Yeah but let me give you some advice. Don't give her any sympathy. She won't like that. She's a prideful, strong girl. She doesn't like to show any weakness."
"Did he…?"
"No. I stopped him before he got too far in the attack. Last I knew before I left, he was out on bail. They are going to try him as an adult since he was seventeen at the time. He was only a couple of months from being eighteen."
"Wow…"
"Yeah…"
…
The school week went by well. School was school. The two unofficial basketball practices went very well for the most part. Charles was still being a jerk and fouling a little too aggressively when it came to Jack. The coach has talked to him about it a couple of times. While that helped a little, he was still a little too much. Jack had to pull Steven back on one occasion. He wasn't always a big fan of Charles. However, he and Jack were getting along well and so was Cory.
Charles and Elizabeth haven't spent any time together, but they have communicated through texts. Not as much as previous weeks, but their friendship was still hanging on. Connie's and Steven's relationship, while still new, was developing nicely. They were looking forward to their first date. Connie was excited about spending some time with Steven, but she was also grateful they would spend part of it with friends. She was worried they wouldn't have anything to talk about. Elizabeth tried telling her that they spoke every day and it always went well, but for some reason it was different since it was an official date.
Elizabeth and Jack enjoyed their days at school. They playfully sassed each other. As hard as Elizabeth tried, she just couldn't beat him in history. Jack just shined the brightest in that class. Elizabeth wasn't too happy about it. However, she shined the brightest in math. Jack just wasn't her equal in that class. No matter how hard he tried, he just couldn't answer a question before she did. Instead of just beating her, he was hoping just to answer a question before she did. It didn't look promising. Their English class was about equal. Sometimes Elizabeth would get the better of their little competition and other times Jack would. Elizabeth wouldn't even talk about the art class. That just wasn't her thing. She was grateful the teacher was grading off effort and not results. Jack would kid her that he never could recognize anything she painted or sketched. While she acted offended, she honestly wouldn't know what it was if she did sketch it.
While the week together was great, they didn't have an opportunity to have a deep, passionate kiss they were both wanting. Jack had practiced for two days and Elizabeth helped one day at the library. They spoke on the phone, texted, and skyped, but it just wasn't the same. They were both hoping they could change that fact tonight.
Elizabeth pulled up at Jack's house at four thirty. She was a little early, but she couldn't help herself. First, she was eager to spend time with Jack. Her mother and father pushed her curfew back to midnight. She was hoping the game would end early enough for her and Jack to spend a little time together. She stepped out of her mini cooper and began walking toward the front porch. She smiled when Charlette stepped out onto the porch with a large smile.
"Well, it's so great to see you!"
"You too Mrs. C."
"Please Elizabeth, call me Charlette."
"Maybe next time, Mrs. C." That has become their running joke ever since the cookout.
Elizabeth hugged Charlette after she climbed the top step. "Did you have a good week?"
"I did." Elizabeth gave her a smile.
"Is he ready?"
"Not yet. You're a little early?"
"True." Elizabeth's face turned a little red. She didn't want to admit she just had to see Jack. She had a feeling that Charlette knew the truth. "I just didn't want to push us to eat and get to the game late."
"Sure, sweetheart. We'll just stick with that." Charlette's smirk was unmistakable. Charlette tightened her hold on Elizabeth's arm. Come on dear…I tried to make some muffins. Would you like to try one?"
"Sure."
Elizabeth sat at the kitchen island trying her best to swallow the bit of the muffin without making an awful face or gaging. Charlette was intently looking at her.
"Ma…I told you not to make her try that concoction." Jack stated as he walked down the steps. He noticed Elizabeth's expression.
"Son, I didn't force her. She volunteered." Defended Charlette as she kept a close eye on Elizabeth and her reaction.
Jack hurriedly grabbed Elizabeth a bottled water. "Here." He handed her the water and a napkin. "Ma, we are going to eat and then the game. Would it be ok if we go get ice cream after? Or maybe we might come back here and hang out in the back yard by the firepit?" Elizabeth was grateful Jack distracted his mother. She took the opportunity to spit out the food into the napkin. Then she took the water to wash the remaining food out of her mouth. She was thankful she accomplished all of that before Charlette turned her attention back to her.
"That wasn't too bad." Elizabeth stated as she took another drink. "Jack, are you ready to eat?"
"Sure."
"Bye Ma." He stated before his mother was able to say anything.
Charlette walked the young couple to the front door. "Jack, your father and I talked. Your curfew has been pushed back an hour."
"Thanks, Ma. I'll let you know what we decide to do."
Charlette leaned in and kissed Jack on the cheek. Then she turned toward Elizabeth. She kissed her on the cheek. While she was still close, she whispered into Elziabeth's ear. "Thank you for not spitting the muffin up when I could see it."
Elziabeth gasped. She honestly thought Charlette didn't notice. Elizabeth only nodded her head.
"Hey, you two, have fun."
"Thanks Ma."
"Thanks Mrs. C."
Jack and Elizabeth walked to her car holding hands. Jack walked to her side of the door first and opened it. Elizabeth watched him. "What are you doing?"
"I'm being a gentleman." She smiled at his silly grin. "Even with you driving, I still want to be a nice guy."
"Well, thank you."
"E-liz-a-beth…" Jack elongated her name. She loved it when he did that. He leaned in like he was telling her a secret. "…you look beautiful." He gently kissed her on the cheek. Instead of moving back, he stayed close to her. He could smell her shampoo and her perfume. He loved those smells.
"Elizabeth…"
"Jack…"
Jack slowly moved his lips along her jawline to her chin. He gently kissed her chin and then moved to her lips. He loved it when she let out a soft moan. He gently sought permission to deepen the kiss with his tongue. She immediately granted him access. He placed his hand on her hip and tried to pull her a little closer. When the kiss ended, they both had the same silly grin.
"Wow." They both softly stated at the same time.
"It has been way too long since we did that." He stated softly.
"And you need to do better to keep that from happening."
"Yes, Princess Beth."
"Jack…my name is Elizabeth. I thought we was past this?"
With one more kiss, he took her hand and lowered her into the driver's seat. Before releasing her hand, he squeezed it three times. She returned the loving act.
…
Tom spent the last two hours in his office looking over security pictures of the same SUV parked in the same parking lot across the street from the headquarters of Thatcher Shipping. The whole week the SUV was present, but only in the mornings and evenings. They only followed William's vehicle. There was never an attempt to stop it or anything. They wouldn't even get close. He wanted to get the VIN number, but the two men were always in the vehicle. They never left it. He did approach the SUV on two occasions. The SUV just sped off before he was too close.
The whole event was getting a little frustrating. The plates were stolen, and they couldn't get a good look or a good picture of the occupants. The SUV wasn't there all day, nor did they throw anything out of the vehicle. If they had done that, they would have been able to get fingerprints.
Tom did keep William updated. William was grateful for Tom's diligence. He trusted his friend. Their friendship was also growing. During work hours, they kept it professional. After work hours or during times they were alone, they were true friends.
He was thinking the two men were getting impatient. They have been doing this for days now. They had to make their move soon.
…
Abagail smiled when Jack and Elizabeth walked into the café hand in hand. She just couldn't get over how cute they were together. The smiles on their faces were huge and growing by the second. She nodded toward the booth in the corner. The one where Jack sat with Elizabeth and her friends for the first time. It was the most secluded booth.
They smiled at Abagail as they turned to walk toward the booth. Instead of sitting on both sides of the booth, Jack sat with Elizabeth when she scooted over. She was secretly happy he sat beside her. He was happy she scooted over.
Abagail walked up to the booth with a silly smile. "Good evening you two. What are you up to?"
"We are going to the football game."
"Really?"
"Yeah…why do you sound so shocked?" Jack asked.
Abagail looked at Elizabeth. "She's not a sports girl." Abagail nodded toward her young friend.
"I'm not, but he asked." She nodded toward Jack.
"Oh…"
"I've only been to one game, and I couldn't tell you anything about it." Elizabeth shrugged her shoulders.
"I hope you have a good time." Jack stated. He was beginning to wonder if he should have invited her. He was hoping to spend some time with her and to hang out with friends. In his old high school, he had several friends and enjoyed hanging out with them. Since he was the new guy at school, he didn't have as many friends.
"I'm with you. I think I'll have fun."
"Now, what would you like to eat?" Abagail asked.
Jack nodded toward Elizabeth for her to order first.
"I'll take my normal."
"Me too."
"Great…two chicken tenders, fries, and extra ranch on the side." Abagail stated as she turned to walk away.
"That's your normal?"
"I've ordered that for years. Her ranch dressing is the best."
"I agree. I ordered that the first time we were all here. It's my favorite."
"Mine too. It's a little weird that we have so much in common."
Jack reached for her hand. I don't know if I would say weird, but it isn't so common. Maybe that's why we get along so well."
"Maybe." She flirted. "So…are you happy breaking your no dating rule?"
"For a rule follower, that was a huge step for me. I know we haven't done this for very long, but I am very happy with my decision. I enjoy being with you."
Elizabeth loved his answer. There was times Jack greatly struggled with saying what's on his heart. If he wasn't stuck in his head and spoke from his heart, he did quite well. She swooned over his words.
"Do you regret breaking your rule?"
"No. Not at all. I like this." She squeezed his hand three times. "I will admit that you frustrate me at times, but I do like being with you." She scrunched her nose at him.
"How are you so stinking cute?" He leaned in and bumped her shoulder.
She shrugged her shoulders while biting her tongue. She wanted him to say that he just loved her, but she didn't want to push Jack. He did tell her that he loved her, but he wasn't ready to tell her yet. He would often squeeze her hand three times and she knew exactly what that meant. She was just ready for Jack to say the words. She was most definitely ready to hear them. And to be perfectly honest, she was ready to say the words too.
"Here you go." Abagail stated as she sat down the plates in front of them."
"Thanks Abagail." They stated at the same time.
…
Charles and Sam were standing in the student section of the stands. The students usually were in the section of the bleachers closest to the score board. They took up the whole section. They were sitting in the second row from the top. Charles stopped talking when he noticed Elizabeth and Jack walking up the bleachers holding hands. He stared as Elizabeth laughed at something Jack said. They stopped halfway up the student section and sat with Connie and Steven. Cory, a girl he didn't know, and Steph. They were also sitting on the same row. Jack sat with Elizabeth. She was sitting beside Connie. His stomach turned when he noticed how close they were sitting.
"Huh…" Sam stated. "I can't believe she came."
"Me either. I had to fight cats and dogs to get her to come with me to a game last year."
"I wonder why they're here?"
"I'm not sure." Charles continued to watch. He just couldn't understand why she was at a football game. "It's almost like she is taunting me." Charles coldly stated.
"Charles, as your friend, you need to hear this. You need to let that go. She has made her decision, and you are going to have to accept it. For whatever reason, she chose to date Jack. You already got in trouble with Coach Franklin because of that dirty stunt you did at practice. You have alienated a few of your teammates as a result. You haven't even attempted to reconcile that issue. Charles, this is about to get you into a lot of trouble."
"Nonsense." Charles waved his hand in a dismissive manner. "She is supposed to be mine!" He hissed in a whispered, yet, determined tone.
"Charles, I'm warning you. You are about to crash and burn over this attitude. Plus, she isn't your property. She isn't supposed to be yours."
"Sam…" Charles huffed. "You know exactly what I mean. We are supposed to be dating."
"I don't think she feels that way."
…
Elizabeth had a lot more fun than she imagined she would. All the students stood during the whole game. They were cheerful and loud. She didn't have a clue what was going on in the game. She just copied what Jack did. If he cheered, she cheered. If he booed, she booed. It took a few minutes, but she did get into it some. She wasn't the loudest by far. She talked with Connie and was happy for her friend. The time with Steven has been great so far for Connie. She noticed Steph and Cory talking a lot. They were both smiling. While she wasn't a sports girl, she knew she would come to another game if Jack asked her to.
When the game ended, the group of friends started talking about what they all wanted to do. Jack and Elizabeth's curfew was pushed back to midnight. The group quickly decided they wanted to do something together.
"Hey, I have a firepit in the back yard. Do you want to go hang out there? We can get ice cream and play music?" Jack asked.
The whole group quickly agreed.
"Let me text Ma to see if that's ok?"
J – May we come and hang out at the fire pit
C – Sure! I have ice cream.
J – It's a big group – me, Elizabeth, Connie, Steven, Steph, Cory, Rosemary, and Lee
C – I have enough ice cream for everyone. I have heard you talk about everyone except the guy named Lee.
J – He's Cory's little brother he plays football
C – Fine, we would like to greet everyone. Your father will get the fire going before you all get here. And use punctuation young man!
J – Thanks Ma
As they walked to their cars, Jack texted everyone else his address. When they approached Elizabeth's car, he stopped her before opening the car door. There were several people walking by, but no one was paying them any attention.
"Thank you for coming with me tonight. I know this isn't your thing, but I enjoyed it and having fun with you."
"I enjoyed it too. Thank you for inviting me."
Jack stepped forward and placed his hand high on her waist. He looked lovingly into Elizabeth's eyes. He wanted to kiss her but knew he shouldn't with so many people around.
"I don't know if I told you…Elizabeth, you look gorgeous."
"Jack…I'm wearing jeans and a school shirt. I bet my hair is a mess and I'm hot."
"Why yes Elizabeth…you are hot." He wiggled his eyebrows."
"Did you just really make that bad joke?"
"Oh yes I did." He stated with great pride sticking out his chest.
She giggled. She loved his silly, playful side. "Jack, that was awful." She laughed again.
"Maybe, but it's true." He took a half a step closer to her. He was fighting an internal war in his mind. He wanted to scream at the top of his voice that he loved her. He knew all of this happened quickly, but that didn't stop his heart from loving this woman. He knew he loved her, no doubt. "Elizabeth" He elongated her name. "I…"
Elizabeth stepped forward and matched Jack's action. She inhaled sharply hoping he was going to say what she thought he might say. She noticed Jack's expression change. This is his expression when his heart, mind, and tongue are battling each other. While it was cute, she just wished he would say it. She wanted to hear it. She desired to hear his proclamation of love. She felt it when he squeezed her hand, and she loved it, but she wanted to hear it. She sighed when he didn't finish. As much as she wanted to hear it, she knew it was a struggle for him. He must have been in his head. She decided to cut him some slack. As much as she wanted to hear it, she also loved him and hated to see him struggle.
She tiptoed and kissed him on the cheek. "Come on sweet man, people will be arriving at your home soon."
Jack exhaled a slow, long breath. He wanted to tell her. He did love her. He knew she understood what he meant when he squeezed her hand three times, but he wanted to vocalize it. He was in his head too much. His tongue just wouldn't work. He was grateful she spoke when he stopped talking.
Elizabeth stepped back and handed him the keys to her car. "Here, you drive." She smiled at his confused expression. "You can drive to your house. That may make you feel better." She playfully sassed him. "I don't want to steal your man card or anything."
…
"I love the car, but it's very different." Jack stated as he pulled into his driveway."
"That's kind of why I like it."
"Yeah…the big speedometer in the middle of the dash is weird. Plus, the key fob is different along with the way you use that little knob to change the radio station." Jack stated as Elizabeth explained how to take the key out of the ignition. "Thanks for letting me keep my man card and for driving your car."
"No problem." She noticed his smile. "What has you so excited?"
"Spending time with you." He stated as he got out of the car and quickly walked to her side to open the door for her before she did herself. "Plus, I get to spend time with you at the firepit."
"You like bonfires?"
"I do. It's always been my thing, plus I get to share it with you."
"And countless others." Elizabeth stated as their friends began to show up.
"Maybe, but I'm still with you." He quickly leaned forward and gave her a quick kiss. "Plus, I'm hoping to do more of that later."
"Don't promise something you can't deliver, Mr. Thornton." She flirted.
Jack smiled at her flirting. "I promise." He held up the scout's honor gesture.
They waited for all their friends to get out of the car. Jack led them all to the front door. It opened with a smiling Tom and Charlette.
"Come on in you all. Ice cream is on the kitchen island. Make your bowls and head out back." Charlette stated. She gave Elizabeth a hug and an extra squeeze. She introduced herself to the kids she didn't know. "Tom has the fire going. Jack, he has your two guitars out back by the fire pit. He figured you wanted to play and maybe one of your friends would like to join you."
"Thanks Ma."
"Hey…who calls their mom ma?" Cory asked.
"He used to watch Bonanza as a kid." Elizabeth stated.
"The really old, black and white western?" Cory asked.
"Good grief…it's not that old." Thomas stated to the kid's laughter.
"Mr. T, you never did tell me who Mr. T was from that old TV show?" Elizabeth asked. Tom just shook his head in disbelief.
"Oh…my father used to watch that. It was a guy with a mohawk haircut with a lot, and I mean a lot, of necklaces." Emphasized Rosemary.
"I'll have to google it." Elizabeth said.
"I think you all need to go outside." Tom stated flatly. "You're all making me feel very old." Everyone laughed at his tone.
Each one grabbed their bowls and picked their ice cream and toppings. Tom had set out enough lawn chairs for everyone to sit around the small fire pit. Of course, Elizabeth and Jack sat beside each other. Steven and Connie were together. Cory and Steph picked two seats that were beside each other. Rosemary and Lee sat at the last two. She nodded her approval when she noticed Jack looking at her. He was in big brother, protective mode. She felt ok with Lee since there were so many people around. While she didn't know any of the other guys, she knew Jack and Mr. Thornton would protect her.
As they ate their ice cream, the group just chatted. Nothing major was discussed. Cory and Steph were in their own little world talking with each other. Connie and Elizabeth noticed Steph's laugh. They thought something was beginning to happen. Lee tried talking with Rosemary, but she was a little closed off toward him. He was nice and funny, but her past dictated her to keep him at a distance. Connie and Steven enjoyed their conversation as did Elizabeth and Jack.
"So…" Elizabeth nodded toward the guitars. "…are those for show or are you going to play one of those?" She asked. She was hoping to hear him play.
Jack matched her sassy look with one of his own. "I have the most perfect song for you." He winked at her. He stood and walked to pick up his guitar. Once he sat back down and tuned it, he slightly turned to Elizabeth and gave her a huge, dimpled smile. She held her breath. That was the biggest dimpled smile he gave her. He began strumming a melody everyone realized. His voice was loud enough for everyone to hear, but the smirk never left his face.
Down on the corner by the traffic light
Everyone's lookin' as she goes by
They turn their heads, and they watch her 'til she's gone
Lord have mercy, baby's got her blue jeans on
Elizabeth gasped for several reasons. First, his smirking expression stole her heart once again. Then it was his voice. She thought he had a nice singing voice. But it was the song that made her face turn a little red. She remembered on Monday after school that he was caught looking at her backside. She adjusted a loose strain of hair behind her ear as he continued.
Up by the bus stop and across the street
Open up their windows to take a peek
How she goes walking, rockin' like a rollin' stone
Heaven help us, baby's got her blue jeans on
She can't help it if she's made that way
She's not to blame if they look her way
She ain't really trin' to cause a scene
It just comes naturally
No, the girl can't help it
Jack's smirk never left his face as he finished the song. Everyone cheered. Elizabeth made eye contact with Jack and scrunched her nose at him. She was impressed with his singing and playing ability. She was also a little embarrassed at the meaning behind the song. With that little bit of embarrassment was also a little bit of pride. She was thankful that Jack found her beautiful.
He began to play another song and leaned in to whisper to Elizabeth. "Sing with me."
"Jack, I don't sing."
"Come on, Doll Face. I know you can. For me?" He winked at her. She recognized the song immediately. It was 10,000 Hours by Dan and Shay with Justin Bieber.
He restarted the song and she just glared at him.
"Come on…we'll do this together. Sing with me."
She smiled at his insistence. She began to sing when he started the song for the third time.
Jack sang the first verse with her. Everyone, including Jack and Elizabeth, noticed how well their voices blended well together. It was like they had sung together for years. When they reached the second verse, Jack stopped singing to allow Elizabeth to sing. Her voice sung out like an angel's voice. Jack closed his eyes as he continued playing, just allowing her voice to wash over him. It was incredible.
Elizabeth glanced at him when he quit singing, but she continued. She knew the song well and was enjoying herself. Connie and Steph knew she could sing, but they didn't realize how well she could. Everyone was amazed and just enjoyed listening to Elizabeth. She finished with the song to cheers and loud applause.
"Wow! Elizabeth, that was amazing. You did such a great job!" Jack praised her with a large smile. Jack leaned toward her. "Please promise me you will sing often."
"Only if you promise me that you will play for me."
"Deal." He reached for her hand. He slowly brought it up and he met her hand halfway with his lips. He gently kissed the back of her hand to seal the promise.
The late evening was perfect in everyone's opinion. Jack and Elizabeth sang a couple more songs together. Steph and Cory enjoyed their conversation and getting to know each other better. Connie and Steven also enjoyed themselves. Halfway through the evening, Connie found her ten seconds of courage and reached for Steven's hand. He immediately took her hand and brought it to his lap. Rosemary even opened up a little to Lee. He kept the conversation ongoing with her without being too pushy. She enjoyed his sense of humor. He was a sophomore while she was a senior, but she didn't care. She was no way to the point of being ready to date. She wasn't ready for that.
Everyone said their goodbyes. Elizabeth and Jack helped Charlette clean up the bowls and put away the lawn chairs. Charlette texted Grace and let her know that Elizabeth was still at their home helping put things away. They extended her curfew for a few minutes. Grace didn't want Elizabeth to rush home and cause an accident just trying to beat curfew. Charlette hugged and thanked Elizabeth for her help. She also kissed her on the cheek.
Jack escorted Elizabeth out to the car. They tightly held onto each other's hands not wanting for the other to leave. They greatly enjoyed their time together. They spend the day together at school. Elizabeth was at his home at four thirty. It was just after midnight, and they both hated the fact that she was getting into her car and leaving.
"Are you busy tomorrow?" Elizabeth asked slowly.
"I'm volunteering at the children's center from ten until noon. You?"
"I'm at the library until eleven."
"Would you like to do something?" Jack asked.
"Would you like to come over to the house? We could go swimming. Maybe do some studying together?"
"That sounds nice. I will have to ask my Ma and Pa, but I doubt they will have an issue with it."
"Perfect. Bring your trunks."
"Do you really want to study? We don't have homework due?"
"Maybe…or we could just swim." She stated with a little bit of color on her face. She was imagining Jack without a shirt on…and water dripping off him.
For Jack, his face was red because he was thinking of a wet Elizabeth in a bikini. He tried to shake his head to get the images of her out of his mind, but he was losing that battle. The time around the fire tonight brought them closer. He loved to hear her sing and just being around her. She was a precious young lady.
"Text me when you are home." Jack stated as he stopped in front of her. He placed his hands on her shoulders and ran them slowly down until he found her hands.
"Jack…I'm a big girl. I know how to find my way home."
"Sure you do. But I still worry about you." Elizabeth nodded her head. "Don't you want to text me?"
"Sure."
"I miss you already."
"Jack, I am standing in front of you."
"He stepped closer to her. "I know but you are leaving…I miss you."
She stepped closer to him. "Thank you for a great time. I loved the fire pit and you playing the guitar."
"That was a lot of fun."
"I'm going to miss you too." She looked up into his eyes. He gripped her hands a little tighter and pulled her until their bodies were touching.
She gasped when their bodies touched. She loved the feeling of Jack pressed against her. He fit perfectly.
Jack slowly leaned in for a kiss. He moved slowly as if he was seeking permission. When their lips connected, it was a moment of perfection. Sound stopped and they were only aware of each other. Their tongues instantly found each other and performed the most perfect dance together. The more they kissed the more they desired to kiss. They were quickly becoming to love this time. They haven't been able to truly kiss like this for the whole week. It was like they were trying to make up for lost time.
Jack moved his right hand to her lower back. He tried pulling her closer, but she was already pressed against him. His left hand found the back of her head. He ran his fingers through her long, auburn hair.
Elizabeth slowly ran her right hand up Jack's back until they found the hair on the back of his head. Her hand tightened around his hair and tried to pull his head closer to deepen the kiss. Her left hand found Jack's belt on his jeans. She held onto his belt like it was the only thing she was holding onto, or she would fall off the edge of the cliff.
Long after their lungs demanded air, they separated just enough to breath. They were not losing contact between them. Neither of them knew kissing could be like this…so intimate, so moving.
"Jack…"
"Elizabeth…I…"