I try to use Every challenge to my benefit and write something I don't usually write. This is different because it's fluff and has no plot what so ever, also, I have no posts cushion so it might be a while before new posts arrive, at least for a while...I intend to have fun with this, and I hope you'll have fun as well!!

Also, the main idea behind the story is a familliar one, I read it in several fanfics fandoms and found that it has a lot of potential here...you'll see as the story develops...

PG-17 for sensuality and mature discussions...nothing too graphic though...


**


Not everyday a woman gets to meet the man she was secretly in love with in college. A man whom she shared an apartment with for two years and who saw her at her worst and her best of days. He followed her through her baggy clothes stage to her blue hair accident and kept by her side, a constant friend.

They kept in touch through e-mails for more then 10 years and today; on her birthday she finally got the chance to see him all over again. She glanced at herself critically, cursing fashion designers for creating the extremely low cut jeans fashion and wondering if she could possibly clench her abdominal muscles harder. Maybe she should just put on her jacket; it might hide the small chocolate belly she developed in the previous month. Glancing around her, she gave up on the idea, it was far too hot for her to wear anything with long sleeves on, Jack Hudson would have to deal with her chocolate belly and she will gladly deal with his beer belly, after all, every men over thirty had one, no?

But of course, he just had to be as athletic as ever, the years seemed to do him only good and she was very happy with the soft chair she was sitting on, feeling faint at the sight of him. His jeans fitted him perfectly and the blue polo shirt was just tight enough to show that he most definitely didn’t have a beer belly or any belly what so ever. His dark hair was shorter then she remembered and he looked extremely handsome…just like he did in college. Lowering her eyes, she was mortified by the flush that covered her cheeks, to her opinion, she hadn’t changed at all since college, but that didn’t do her any good and here he was standing at the entrance of the coffee shop, the same man she knew and yet very different.

She didn’t even notice that he approached her and was startled to see a hand waving at her eyesight. “Jay?” He sounded unsure and she nodded her head dumbly, unable to find anything coherent to say. He looked confused for a moment and she smiled suddenly and rose from her seat, laughing when he hugged her warmly.

“Hey, Jack, it’s good to see you again.”

“It’s been a long time.” He patted on her shoulder and she backed away from him, realizing that she had been standing in his arms longer then he intended her to. He sat in front of her and ordered ice coffee, leaning backwards on his seat. “So, what brings you to Washington?”

Jay cleared her throat. “Well, actually…you…” She planned the entire speech in her head during her flight but she never imagined it could be so hard to say it. He smiled a little and she forgot her speech all together, drowning in his warm and confused looking eyes.

“Is everything alright, Jay? Is there anything I can help you with?” Jack asked, instantly worried with the way her eyes seemed to glaze over. Hoping that she wasn’t in some kind of trouble, he reached out for her hand, squeezing lightly.

“No, no…I’m fine…” She paused, biting her lips. “It’s my birthday.” She said and he raised his eyebrows.

“I can’t believe I forgot, Jay, I’m so sorry. I promise a long birthday e-mail by the time you’ll get home.” He pursed his lips, guilt sinking in. “I wasn’t the best friend in the last year, haven’t I? It’s just with the case load we’ve been having…”

“Jack, it’s alright, really.” She squeezed his hand in return. “I don’t mind that you forgot but I brought you something.”

“You brought me something for your birthday?” Jack was surprised to see her pulling an old looking parchment that was burned in the edges. He examined it carefully, his heart clenching as he remembered that night all those years ago. “I can’t believe you kept it.”

“I’m 32…” She chuckled nervously. “Time just flies by…”

Jack shifted in his seat, chuckling as he finished reading the parchment. “We were pretty miserable that night weren’t we? Allie dumped me and you got rid of what’s his name…”

It was at that point that she realized he just didn’t understand. He didn’t understand and she would have to spell it out for him, wasn’t reading the parchment enough to understand? Why couldn’t he understand on his own? It was humiliating enough that she actually came to see him. She raised her head when he chuckled. “I can’t believe we actually signed it…and treated it so seriously, promising to marry each other at a certain age if we won’t be in a committing relationship…” The last few words seemed to stretch as he trailed off, lifting startled eyes to meet hers. “Jay?”

She cleared her throat. “Yes, that was pretty stupid.” She smiled. “I just thought it might be fun if we remember it.”

“You came all the way to Washington to show me a piece of parchment?” Jack raised his eyebrow skeptically, feeling horrible with the way her eyes wouldn’t meet his.

She shrugged her shoulders, reminding herself that she was ready for being disappointed. “I didn’t have a meaningful relationship in a while. Alright, more then two years would be more accurate.” She smiled a little. “I just thought I should check to see if maybe I have a shot with you.”

Jack bit his lips before responding. “I’m not in a meaningful relationship right now but I do have someone in mind and I would very much like to pursue a relationship with.”

Jay smiled a little. “That’s very honest of you, thank you; I guess I shouldn’t have come anyway.”

“What are your plans for today? We could catch up.” He offered but she shook her head.

“No…I have some things I need to do.” She took another sip from her ice tea and smiled at him. “You know, you shouldn’t wait too long to pursue a relationship, Jack. You might end up like me…I should have make a move on you when we were twenty.”

“You were interested in me when we were in college?” He sounded surprised and she rolled her eyes at him.

“Why must men be so dense? Yes, I was…I’m interested in you even now but obviously I’m a little late.” She stood and he followed, pulling her into a hug.

“It was good to see you; I hope I didn’t make things worse for you.” He said softly.

“It’s alright; I’ll e-mail you when I get back home.” She left his arms reluctantly and headed towards the street, trying to walk slowly and steadily despite the strong desire she had to simply run away. She wondered what she was going to do alone in Washington for a day, her flight for New York was leaving in the following morning and the airline company lost her suitcase somewhere. She took a look around and decided to do some sightseeing, she might be pathetic and lonely but she will go and see the White House. Now, if only she had the slightest idea where to go…

She turned left and stumbled, the air rushing from her lungs as she collided with someone’s chest (that was as solid as a rock). Something hot and dark spilled on her white blouse and she winced with pain as it burned her skin through the thin material. Someone kneeled beside her, his eyes worried. “You alright there, Sheila?”

Bell, I'm excited that you are joining the challenge!! So, J/B is Jay and Bobby?? Interesting concept - Jack going to college with her and signing that agreement to marry at a certain age!! It's a good thing that she didn't hold him to it!!!

Can't wait to see how you progress with this!!!

Joy

And the problem with this is.........


Fluff and no plot every girls dream!

Oh my goodness, this is going to be fun!!!

Bell this is going to be lovely. I'm especially fond of the line about the chocolate belly!

Welcome to my world, Bell!

And I agree with Jay - Jack better make a move!

can't believe i missed this yesterday

jack had definately better make a move soon

cath

Jay is very quick to grasp the essentials!

Take her advice and get a move on, Jack. Don't let Sue wait much longer.

And of course, plot-less fluff is always welcome...

Great beginning, you've reeled me in!


gracie

Bobby, Bobby, Bobby... I thought you know better ways how to ask a beautiful woman for a date !!!!! I can't wait for Jay and Bobby's story and of course, for Jack and Sue's...

Great, you started new story !!!!


Restie

Oh my goodness I should spend all day gardening more often -- I get to come back to some amazing stories!!!! This is wonderful! Bring on the fluff I say and to the plot! Though if you think about it -- there is a lot of plotting in fluff!

kav

Actually, two of my friends made a promise like that, they didn't sign any parchment but they did tell people about it...I personally think they should get this over with and start dating but people rarely listen to me so...

**

He was just leaving Starbucks, intent on drinking his coffee on the way when someone knocked into him, making him stumble and spill the entire cup. Shocked from the impact, he balanced himself and kneeled down to face the woman who was sprawled on the pavement. “You alright there, Sheila?”

“Who drinks black coffee on the hottest day of the year?” She snapped, leaping to her feet and hurrying towards Starbucks, heading towards the ladies room. Stunned from her outburst, Bobby followed her inside, realizing that the hot liquid probably burned her skin. He headed towards the cashier, asking about a first aid kit and then headed towards the ladies bathroom.

“Sheila, are you in there?”

“Of course I’m in here, where else would I be with a huge stain on my not so white anymore shirt?”

“I’m sorry…look, I brought you a first aid kit, there’s some aloe Vera inside.” He paused when he received no reply. “Can I come in?”

“No, you can’t!” She practically squealed and he sighed, surprised when the door opened a little and a hand showed up. He bit his lips to stop from chuckling and handed her the small box, waiting outside for her to finish. When ten minutes passed he considered leaving but then he thought he heard her crying and decided to check on her, not caring at all that he was walking into the ladies bathroom.

He found her sitting on the floor, her white shirt resting on the counter, the large coffee stain still very visible despite the fact that the water made the shirt pretty transparent. She was crying, he realized suddenly and he kneeled in front of her, reaching out to touch her hand. “Miss?”

She jumped backwards, banging her head on the wall. “What are you doing here? This is the women’s bathroom…I’m in my bra!” She exclaimed, covering the lacy material with her hands.

Bobby noticed that she was in her bra, he also noticed that it was a very sexy white bra with an interesting lace pattern, if she could only move her hand a little so that he could see the rest of the pattern…he shook his head, forcing his eyes to cooperate as he raised his gaze to look at her eyes. “You know, I’ve seen women with bra’s before…”

She opened and closed her mouth several times before rolling her eyes. “Good for you, could you leave me alone now?”

He eyed the wide red bruise that formed just above her breast. “Is that…”

“Yes…that’s your cup of coffee.” She replied sarcastically. “There’s nothing I can do with that shirt, it was silk you know…well, at least that happened after I met him and not before.” She paused, lowering her eyes. “On the other hand, maybe if he saw me in my bra he would have noticed that I’m a woman…”

Bobby glanced around nervously. “Is there anything I can do for you?”

“Can you turn back time?” She asked pitifully and he smiled a little.

“Sorry.”

“Can you point me to the nearest mall or women’s clothing shop? I thought I could use without my luggage until tomorrow morning but I can’t wear this jacket all day, I’ll die from the heat.”

“I’ll tell you what, let me buy you something cold to drink and then I’ll walk with you to the mall.” He offered, raising his eyebrows at the suspicion he saw in her eyes.

“I don’t know you.” She said, creasing her forehead. “And at the moment, your first impression wasn’t that good.”

“I’m Bobby.” He offered her his hand, lowering it when she ignored him. “Come on, Sheila, it’s the least I can do after ruining your shirt.”

“What’s with the Sheila? I never said my name was Sheila, why do you insist on calling me that?” She rose from her position on the floor, buttoning her heavy woolen jacket. “I wouldn’t last a second with that jacket on…”

“It’s just Aussie talk.” Bobby shrugged his shoulders; trying not to show that he was offended by her outburst. He never met anyone who was offended with the way he spoke.

“Sorry.” She bit her lips. “I didn’t realize…I’m having a bad day, that’s all.” He smiled and nodded his head, accepting her hand and shaking it. “I’m Jay.” She said, smiling when he grinned at her.

“Got it…Jay, not Sheila.” He joked. “Orange juice?” He offered.

“Fresh please, with lots of ice.”


**

Next...Jack's making some decisions...(finally...)

Very nice. I like stories full of fluff. So, is Jay going to make a move on Bobby? As Flip said: Jack had better make a move on Sue. I'm all excited! More challenge stories! Great job! More soon please! From


Jenny

Very interesting train of thoughts, Bobby

I feel a bit pity for him, Bell... he is lightning conductor for her bad mood... I hope she will see Bobby is great man during their shopping

Restie

Hopefully, soon Jay will realize just how sweet Bobby is!!!

Joy

Poor Jay....Too bad Jack's taken ....NOT!!!! Seems like her luck is changing though....bumping into Bobby....I'm sure she'll be taken in by his dimples soon enough.

Wow...can't wait until all these worlds collide.

when does the ...next.....part begin

He liked to think of himself as an intelligent man; he was a federal agent, he was his team leader, he had a law degree. It was weird to discover that such a short meeting with his past could open his eyes to so many things. She asked why must men be so dense and he knew that although most men really were he simply enjoyed burying his head in the sand.

He was stunned to discover that she liked him in college, she was one of his best friends, they shared an apartment together, he brought her Advil and chocolate cake every twenty eight days and tried hard to walk on his toes on those fearful days of what she liked to call her moon cycle. She was with him when he was late to one of his finals and sweet talked the professor to let him take the test anyway. And she was there when Allie preferred someone else over him and he was upset and then on the next day when Allie decided she could do with him and he was happy.

And all that time she liked him. He shook his head, he never even considered her to be an option. She was simply there and he shamefully admitted that he wouldn’t have spared her a second glance if he passed her down the street. It was only now that he realized that he took her for granted. He imagined that she took him for granted as well, thinking that they will always remain friends, that she will always have that silly piece of parchment.

Her words struck a nerve and he knew she was right. He shouldn’t have waited for so long, shouldn’t have succumb to that indifference approach about Sue. New York came into mind and he wondered why he didn’t act when she told him she was staying. He hadn’t slept at all that night, planning and scheming ways for her to stay and when she did he backpedaled again.

He still couldn’t understand why he backpedaled but he did, probably thinking that he didn’t need to chance their friendship now that the world seemed to be normal again. Jay’s words reminded him that sometimes the world changes and she was right, Sue won’t wait forever.

Straightening his shoulders, he headed towards his apartment. Today might be the day that would change his life. Since they had the day off, he had plenty of time to plan and execute. They all decided to meet later that night and see the fireworks so he had time. Scratching his chin; he turned on the air conditioner and reached out for his phone. “Luce, is Sue there? Good, I need some help with a project.”


**


“Have you ever shopped with a woman before?” She asked, sighing with relief when they entered the air conditioned mall.

“Sometimes…with this woman I used to date.” Bobby answered vaguely. “Why do you ask?”

“Didn’t you hate it? Most of the men I know would have preferred to battle wild beasts then walk into a mall with a woman.”

“Nah…everything looked good on her, she was usually quick.” Bobby smiled tightly and Jay picked up on the way his eyes clouded and shrugged her shoulders.

“Well, I’ll give you a fair warning. Nothing looks good on me so it might take a while.” She paused in front one of the shops. “You don’t have to stay.”

“Yes, you keep on saying that, I might actually get insulted if you continue.” The playful remark assured her that he was joking and she raised her eyebrow.

“Alright, but I gave you a fair warning.”

Forty five minutes later and 17 shirts, she managed to pick up three that weren’t too flashy, or showed too much cleavage, or were too high and failed to cover the small chocolate belly and the fact that her underwear line was higher then her jeans line. Bobby seemed to enjoy the fashion show and when she finally emerged from the dressing room with one of the shirts he stopped her, handing her two skirts. “Try these.” He said.

“What?” She seemed so stunned he burst into laughter.

“Look, you said something about not having your luggage with you and since the heat wave is about to get even worse you might as well wear something lighter then those jeans.” He motioned his own shorts.

Jay eyed the two skirts critically. “I don’t think I could wear them.”

“Why? They’re not too short …” He trailed off when she shifted from one foot to the other. “Out with it, Shei…Jay, what’s wrong?”

“Well, for your information, Bobby, it’s been a while since I shaved my legs and I don’t feel comfortable…” She trailed off when he rolled his eyes.

“Why do women gets so upset with their hair, it’s supposed to be there. Scientists claim its part of the sensory nervous system, no?” He pondered for a moment and then shook his head. “Look, just try them, I think they go all the way to your ankle and no one will notice any hairs.”

Pursing her lips, she grabbed the skirts and headed towards the dressing room. Bobby smiled to himself and waited patiently for her to come out, relived when she did, wearing a wine colored skirt and a white tank top. He smiled at her and she rolled her eyes, holding the other skirt in her hand. “Are you sure you’re not gay?” She blurted suddenly, hot flush covering her cheeks when people looked at them.

“Why?” Bobby was highly amused, laughing when she buried her face in her hands.

“Sorry, that was a stupid question and it’s completely none of my business not to mention it’s a completely sexist thing to say…I just wanted to say that you have good taste.”

“Thank you.”

He followed her to the cashier and she paid for the clothes before following him outside the store. They faced each other and Jay took a look around her before setting her gaze on his eyes again. “Thanks, it was fun. I think I might just hang around here for a while, it looks like a bad day for sightseeing.”

“I’m glad I could help.” He took a look around him and then smiled at her. “Actually, I have something I need to do here…” He trailed off and she quirked her lips into a small smile.

“Want me to come with you?”

Grinning, he nodded his head, leading her towards the escalator.


**

Thank you for your kind response, this is certainly different for me to write. Believe it or not but fluff doesn't come as easy for me as intense drama...
Please forgive any grammar mistakes, English isn't my native language and I haven't beta'd it since I post as I write...

Love the interaction between Jay and Bobby!!!

Sidenote to Jack: You can do it...open your mouth and speak the words!!!!

Could it be we have Jack going in the right direction???

I think Bobby and Jay would make a cute couple!!!

Bell, you are doing wonderfully well!! Don't worry - you have me hooked, and as far as I can see, quite a few other people as well!!!

Joy

I'm glad Jay is with Bobby. He's just the type to help her forget her troubles...since he's so fun and handsome.


Now, Jack.....I'm glad you're finally making a move...and weren't you smart, getting Lucy's help!!!

Let me get this straight, an Australian male who is not only willing be be caught dead in a shopping centre but actually enjoys shopping (for clothes no less)?

Maybe he's been in American too long.

I can't tell you how nice it is to read a story of yours and not feel the need to cry or pull my hair out or eat unhealthy amounts of chocolate or anything.

hahahah this was just hilariousch

every female's problem hahahaha

You're quite funny bell!

Bell, I love your every stories... and I can assure you this one is good as your thrilling ones...

I am so glad Jack finally realised what he should do and I am glad Jay decided to accompany Bobby with his shopping...

I can't wait for more!!!


Restie

It's good to know that this little piece is making you smile! I smile a lot when I write it...

**

Sue was more then surprised to see Jack waiting for her when she returned from the long walk with Levi. She paused momentarily before he saw her and groaned at her state of appearance. Her T shirt was sticking to her back and her face was flushed and sweaty, the idea to have a nice jog with Levi on the hottest day of the year was obviously a bad one. She tried to remove her sticky hair from her forehead but she got the feeling she only made herself look worse and instead just smiled awkwardly. “Hey, Jack, what are you doing here?”

Jack took in her lovely form, clad in shorts and running shoes, suddenly seeing more of her then he ever saw, realizing that her legs were indeed as long as he fantasized them to be. Forcing his gaze to settle on her eyes, he smiled. “I came to take you with me for the day.”

“Sweeping me off my feet?” She arched an eyebrow, watching with amusement as his smile turned wicked.

“Well, I’m certainly going to try…”

Sue pondered for a moment. She had no other plans other then watching the fireworks later that night. And considering the heat wave, she wasn’t too thrilled on spending her day under the air conditioner. “Does it involve outdoor activities?” She asked and Jack nodded his head.

“Yes, you’ll need a swimming suit and a towel and a set of clothes for changing.”

Sue pursed her lips and then nodded her head. “Alright, since I have nothing to do anyway…” She trailed off when she caught the relieved look in his eyes. “Come on up, I’ll need a few minutes.”

**

“Alexandria.” He answered when she quietly asked him where they were going.

Sue chuckled. “Alexandria is a big place, Jack. What exactly are we going to do there?”

“That, Miss Thomas, is for me to know and for you to find out as soon as we get there…” He grinned, reaching out to squeeze her hand. “I promise you’ll have fun.”

“Won’t we get hot?” She asked, moving her hand down her throat before reaching out to the air conditioner and resting her palm against it.

Jack eased his foot from the gas pedal as he watched her actions, swallowing hard before replying. “Trust me, we won’t get too hot.”

“Are we going to be in an air conditioned place?” She asked, innocently batting her eyelashes at him. She watched him laughing and shaking his head, wondering where her bold mood came from, flushing when his expressive gaze scanned her when they stood in a red light, promising her without words that things just might never be the same. She averted her eyes and a moment later felt his hand touching hers, squeezing softly when the light turned green again.

“It wouldn’t be a surprise if you continue to try and get it out of me.” He told her on the next light and she leaned closer, watching with amusement as he bit his lower lip.

“Well, I studied the art of interrogation from the best.” She replied, grinning at his flushed face.

“Is this the stage where you’re making fun of me and saying it was Levi?” He asked, sighing when the car from behind honked loudly.

“No, I really meant you this time.” She chuckled and he reached out for her hand, squeezing it softly, delighted with the simple contact.

Sue watched their joined hands, marveling at the difference in color and texture, the heat spreading in her body the direct result of his touch. She wondered what he planned for her. For them. She startled when he pulled his hand gently and placed his finger bellow her chin, tilting her head higher. “We’re here.” He smiled.

Her face lit up and she glanced outside, a wide smile forming on her lips. “A water park?” She exclaimed, laughing delightfully.

“Cameron Run.” He pointed at the sign. “They say it has a great wave pool.”

He laughed when she practically jumped from the car. “Jack, I haven’t been in a water park for ages. Are you coming?”

“Why? You think you’ll have more fun without me?” He teased. “Come, give me a hand.” He pulled out a picnic basket and a blanket.

They find a relatively quiet corner, shaded by a few trees and spread their belongings there. Jack wasted no time in removing his running shoes, envious the sandals that Sue so easily slipped from her feet. She buried her feet in the tall grass and he watched her for a moment as she scanned the place. “Where should we go first?” She asked and he sneaked a look at his watch.

“The waves should start in a few minutes. Wanna go to the wave pool?”

She nodded her head. “But I don’t want to get water in my ears.”

“Got it, no water dunking.” He winked.

Sue stared at him for a moment, flushing under his scrutiny, knowing that she needed to remove her shirt and shorts and suddenly feeling very shy. Jack smiled and turned away from her, fussing over something while she slowly stripped to her one piece bathing suit, all too aware of the fact that he never before so her so exposed. She watched as he turned slowly, one hand covering his eyes. “Can I look?” He asked and she smiled and moved closer to him, reaching out to his hand and moving it away from his eyes. Jack blinked before focusing his eyes on her, taking in the light blue material with much appreciation. Sue lowered her eyes, her heartbeat accelerating when she realized that he removed his shirt and she was now staring at his bare chest. Her head snapped upwards and his lips curled in a smile, grinning in return she sprang to her feet.

“Come on, Hudson, the last one in the water have to do the other’s paper work for a week!”

Jack watched her running away from him and quickly followed, thinking that the view he was enjoying from was worth all the paper work in the world.

**

I didn't bother to check if Cameron park opens at 4th of July...hope no one minds.
Next...the art of forgeting your troubles with chocolate chip icecream...

Bell, that sounds like so much fun, I wish I was there!!!

Joy

a lovely post

cath

I feel the same way -- I keep expecting some underworld neanderthal to creep out from behind a bush and kidnap Sue or shot Jack or like they're going to find a body at the bottom of a water slide or maybe terrorists have rigged a bomb or....

kav

Well Kav I guess I know what your next few stories will be about!

Water parks are open over the 4th bell - no worries! Can we make Jack do the floating test? Because I bet he can't float.

Bell, I SOOOOOOOO enjoy this story they are so sweet and lovely

Thank you


Restie

just caught up !! wonderful bell just wonderful!! a day with sue !! hope he went go crazy!! !! can he just tell her!

its only the begining right bell the fun part is next !! cath and joy !! its summer just a week away here....
diving in the pool first !!!if i finish all the work before then!!!

btw bell no chocolate chip icecream in the fridge .......

I'm thinking Sue should get choked and let Jack practice his mouth-to-mouth. So what if a little attention comes her way? I think the experience with Jack would be well worth it!

Of course, licking melted ice cream from Jack's chest might... ...did I say that out loud?

wow flip !! didn't know you had it in you !! you devil you !!! got a wild imagination there!!

but a good one at that bell what do you say in making it a reality!!

Very cool! Flip!!!!!! Honestly girl! Contain yourself!!!!! More soon From


Jenny

What troubles are we forgetting????? I don't have any choc chip icecream, will vanilla do??????

Jenny

yes you did, flip...and I heard you loud and clear...


**


“You know, I may be out of town but I do have eyes in my head.” Jay grumbled good naturally and Bobby smiled a little.

“What do you mean?”

“I may not know this mall but I can tell that we’ve been going around in circles for the last ten minutes.”

Bobby paused. “I need to do something but to tell you the truth; I don’t wanna do it very much…” He trailed off, his hand moving to his pocket and tracing the small box that was nestled inside.

Jay bit her lips. “Alright, let’s make another round.”

Bobby smiled gratefully and they walked around the mall for a few more minutes. When he woke up that morning, after very few hours of sleep, he convinced himself that it was about time to move on, Darcy’s words still echoing in his ears. He faked indifference when they talked on the phone, congratulating her and encouraging, pretending he already moved on and didn’t wait for her. But in reality he received a heavy blow to his heart, not to mention his ego; his former girlfriend admitting without saying out loud that he wasn’t good enough for her.

Jay watched curiously at the range of expressions his features showed, wondering at the sudden pain she saw in his eyes before a resolution seemed to surface and he pulled her after him to one of the jewelry stores. He immediately walked towards one of the salesman and handed him the small box he carried. “I would like to return it please.” The salesman opened the small box and examined the ring that was nestled inside, he asked for Bobby’s receipt before disappearing in the back room, promising he would only be a moment.

Jay peered from behind him. “It’s a beautiful ring, Bobby.”

“Thanks.” He replied absentmindedly, tracing the delicate white gold ring with his finger. “I never got the chance to actually propose, she left before I had the chance.”

Jay laid her hand on his shoulder, the touch strangely comforting him. “It was really stupid of her to leave.”

He eyed her with sad eyes. “You think?”

Her eyes twinkled with mischief and he smiled without even trying too hard. “A tall, green eyed Aussie with an excellent taste in both clothes and jewelry…” She trailed off, making a show of waving her hand over her face. “Normal women would have swooned at your feet by now.”

“Yeah, don’t you forget that I’m extremely handsome as well.” Laughing when she rolled her eyes at him.

The salesman returned and Bobby handed him his credit card, feeling an odd sense of relief now that he finally returned the small object that seemed to weigh on his heart. They walked out of the store and Bobby leaned against the rail, watching passers by as they walked around the packed mall. He was all too aware of her presence beside him watching him. “Thanks for coming with me.” He mumbled.

“How do you feel?”

“Like I’ve been dumped all over again.” He mused slowly. “I really thought I got over her.”

She squeezed his shoulder. “You know, I have the perfect thing to get your mind off of her. Trust me, I’ve been dumped too many times already and this guy I really liked told me this morning he wanted to pursue a relationship with another woman.”

“Ouch.” Bobby sympathized and then smiled when she pulled him after her towards the food section, seating him next to one of the tables and handing him her shopping bags and the small duffle bag she carried.

“Don’t move.” She ordered playfully and he watched her walking over to one of the ice cream stands, peering over the selections before pointing at something. Bobby found himself eyeing her appreciatively, smiling when she grinned at the salesman and accepted a huge cup from him before nodding her head and obviously asking for another one. Her long skirt hugged her curves and he marveled at the way she paused to gather her hair in a complicated knot, strands of hair falling down and tracing the sides of her face. She soon returned towards the table and he faked interest in the wood patterns on the table, raising his head when she presented him with the biggest chocolate ice cream portion he’d ever seen. He glanced at her with alarm. “You can finish it all by yourself?”

“Of course I can.” She snorted. “Not that I’m very proud of it, mind you, but…” She trailed off when he slowly eased the spoon to his mouth, surprised by her reaction to the simple gesture.

“This is heavenly.” He mumbled with his mouth full.

“Men’s cure for a broken heart.” She said, lowering her eyes to her own portion of ice cream. “Not only it’s chocolate ice cream but it also have chocolate chips inside.”

“I’m warning you, I’m hyper on too much sugar.” He waved the spoon in front of her eyes before taking another mouthful of ice cream.

Jay shrugged her shoulders. “I’ll be hyper too so we should get along just fine.”

They lapsed into silence and Jay shook her head, wondering why she even assumed that he would want to keep on spending his time with her, he probably had better things to do then spend Independence Day at the mall with a stranger he only just met. She cleared her throat, pushing the ice cream away as it suddenly lost its taste. “So, you know any decent motels around? I should probably start looking for a place to spend the night in.”

“What would you do in a hotel all day long?” He wondered, finishing his ice cream.

“Well, I might catch a movie before.” She pointed at the large sign behind him. “A marathon of animation film, Ice Age two is starting soon.”

“Oh…” He pondered for a moment. “We could watch it together.”

“Bobby, you don’t have to stay with me, I already forgot about the coffee incident. I’m sure you have better things to do then hang around with me all day.” She bit her lips, wondering why she was pushing him away.

“The truth is that I had absolutely no plans for today and I don’t feel like going home.” He shrugged his shoulder. “Watching a fun movie sounds like a good idea but we don’t have to sit together if you don’t want to.”

“I just don’t want you to feel any obligation towards me.”

“I don’t feel anything like that…I think we’re even, so let’s go and watch a movie.” He eyed her bowl of ice cream. “Are you going to eat that?”

“Of course I am.” She pulled the bowl towards her. “You already got your share…”

I loved that last line! So oooooooh bell. I loved how you portrayed Bobby's emotions. *Jenny tires to be slightly sykic (I know i spelt it wrong, I had a mind block) Ummm I see ................ possible J/S moments!!!!!! Am I right??

Jenny

this part me laugh out loud

don't ever think a woman can't eat a whole bowl off ice cream. you guys are all forwarned

What fun! I think Jay and Bobby are just right for each other, and maybe they can heal each other's hearts.

On a side note...Flip!!! Stop corrupting the youngsters.

I've fallen in love this story... I'm just savoring all the romance in the air.


gracie

Not only am I not that young but also I believe that there is absolutely no way I could get any more corrupted then I already am!

**

Water were surely one of the universe’s magical instruments, sustaining body and soul, animals and plants, clear as crystal and beautiful as the sun glowed above it. Jack watched with rapt attention as the water rolled down her back, her hair slightly wet. He followed a drop of water that slowly slid down her shoulder blade and headed southwards, stopping at the line of her swimming suit. Jack smiled and slowly walked towards her, receiving her attention by waving his hand.

“The water is good.” Sue smiled at him. “You were right; it’s not even that hot.”

Jack grinned. “I’m glad you approve.”

She stumbled a little when the first waves hit them and he reached out for her, pulling her after him towards the edge of the pool where they could also hold the rail. “I’m not very fond of high waves.” He heard her saying.

Not deep. Me hold you. He responded in sign, making sure to stop in a place where she could still stand on her feet.

She moved closer to him as the waves grew higher and Jack grabbed the rail in one hand while wrapping his other arm around her and pulling her even closer. He heard her laughing against his ear and he smiled, watching as a few people started swimming against the waves. Another wave hit his back and he stumbled, swallowing a mouthful of water while trying to achieve his balance. He felt Sue’s grasp tightening as she stabled him and he coughed loudly.

“Jack, are you okay?” Her grin turned wicked. “Do you need CPR?”

He coughed harder, now trying to contain his laughter at her mischievous gaze. “If I’ll ever need CPR, would you perform it?” He questioned, his hand moving to her hair and tangling a strand around his finger.

She grinned. “I might…” Her smile faltered as she slowly watched his eyes turning a darker shade of brown as he leaned closer. “Jack…” She placed a hand on his chest, her heart thumping in response to his closeness and the touch of his body under the water. He half turned and she lost her grip on the rail, holding onto his shoulders, his hand holding her tightly while the other one, untangled the strand of hair and moved to caress her cheek.

Someone bumped into them and suddenly, Jack found that the moment was broken, Sue averting her eyes from him and adjusting her swimsuit. He smiled a little and grasped her hand. “Wanna go out? We could have some ice cream and I really think we both need some sun screen before we’d turn red.”

“I could do with some ice cream.” She smiled, relieved that the tension eased between them and on the same time regretting not acting with her instincts.

”And sun screen.” He reminded her, his mind taking him to various interesting scenarios. “But most definitely something cold first…” He mumbled, following her outside. She gave him a knowing smile and he walked faster to catch up, enjoying when she reached out for his hand and they walked towards the ice cream stand in the corner.

GRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm not exaggerating. In the slightest. Maybe we can have kisses over icecream??????? And putting each others sun screen on???? I also wanted to quote bell on the corrupting the youngsters thing. i'm a youngster but have to say, I'm fully corrupted. The whole caboodle. I'm more than a bit !!!!!!!!! Not kidding, in fact I get reminded of it a LOT at both school and home!!!!!!

More soon please!

Jenny

Is Flip going to get what she's been asking for? I'm sure the ice cream is going to melt with all that heat sizzling around those two!

kav

Just caught up on this one! I love it! And it was 100 today...a wave pool would have been perfect. Of course, without Jack there...a little less than perfect.

Jill

Wave pools, lots of bodies bumping around in there, it was probably Flip...

Be careful she doesn't swoon down into the ice cream too!

Bell, that were so lovely parts... I love Jay's and Bobby's uncertainty and the fact they like each other more than they want to admit... ... AND Jack and Sue... you robbed us of their first kiss but I am sure the first one will be


Restie

LOL! Needing to cool down a bit, Jack?

Definitely!