Pierre stared at the man before him.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡJmV2Ewa5vn 維尼
"Parker." The name felt foreign on his tongue, even more so when he hadn't seen the man who was his half-brother for years. "What are you doing here?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ04gF2N4MFJ 維尼
Parker, whose only similarity he shared with Pierre was the stubborn chin – which happened to be a dominant trait in all of the Lachlan men – chuckled, though one couldn't be sure whether it was in amusement or with hidden motives.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡbmiKfTuCsq 維尼
"I live here." He simply said. Parker raised a brow. "Aren't you going to come in?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡFroX28AXNy 維尼
Pierre frowned, before realising that in his shock of seeing them all here, he had taken a step back and out of the threshold. He shook his head. "I think I'm fine here."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3CtUmOmj6V 維尼
Parker raised his eyebrow and breezily said, "Is that so? Well, the rest of us prefer to stay warm than freeze so you can either come in or just leave."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡIrufeXhfiD 維尼
"Parker." Katya blurted out, her tone alarmed as she eyed the tall man warily.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ147Z09IH3m 維尼
He only looked at Pierre in a challenging manner.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NL8pfQErr 維尼
Pierre wished he could just leave, but they had piqued his interest when they mentioned his mother. All those locked up memories of the past came crushing down on him, and he gritted his teeth, damning the curiosity within him. There was no way he'd come back to this place later.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡXN7m6hoKlc 維尼
"That wasn't so hard, wasn't it?" Parker flashed a pearly teeth at him in a mocking voice.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡUVMnXZk2k1 維尼
Pierre didn't bother replying. He appraised the man before him, ignoring the other occupants watching them silently.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ31HtGUTMO3 維尼
They had been close, he remembered.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4oNKj1nYaJ 維尼
His older brother may have had a knack for teasing and annoying people but he didn't remember Parker being cynical and full of mockery. He thought the air felt heavy with bitterness and resentment, though he couldn't be certain if it came from him or them.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡFMOLlgHfpo 維尼
He felt like a stranger. All of them did. Pierre resist looking at the person who was the most closest to him then, no doubt was watching his every move like an invisible spectator now.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡwZexiYEbnx 維尼
Everyone had changed.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXmkkoWF2k 維尼
But Parker seemed to change drastically in the last eight years, and Pierre felt a dull stab in his heart.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡoVVhYBjVWP 維尼
Before he could drown in the old sentiments, he cleared his throat and said, "Well?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡPoE9eJR372 維尼
Katya moved forward and said, almost wearily, "Just take a sit, Pierre. We haven't seen you in years and the least you could do now is listen."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6cr2acUuYq 維尼
He stared at Katya's pleading face long before nodding briskly.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ03k3mNsLMV 維尼
Parker smirked and Pierre narrowed his eyes at him. His eyes scanned the room towards the other occupant, and he said, "What are you looking at? Got a problem with me?" Pierre's accent had thickened with irritation.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡAih6blg6FY 維尼
Max had been looking at Pierre, and he found it a little unnerving. The other boy only smiled at him, his tone condescending. "You sound like those ulichnyye panki. What do they call it in English?" He wondered out loud before saying, "Ah, yes. A street punk."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡbqoMSS3gw0 維尼
Pierre glowered and he took a step toward him, but Katya stepped forward and put a hand to his chest. To Max, she said, "Dostatochno! We didn't ask him to come here so you could fight like ten year olds."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡXSrV12nxyo 維尼
Max shot his gaze at her and Pierre could see a quiet fury in his eyes. "Ten year olds? He acts like he knows and owns everything. Besides, I didn't ask him to come here, you did."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1N11FJffBI 維尼
Katya pinned him with a hard stare. "That's beside the point." Then, she soften her gaze. "Pozhaluysta, Maksimillian."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡoMO5EZPyU0 維尼
Max stared at his pleading cousin, before glancing at a confused but wary Pierre. Finally, he looked away and sighed, sweeping his arm in a gesture that meant to 'get on with this' to Katya.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡnB2DxyJrVA 維尼
Parker, who had been quietly watching the exchange with a barely concealed amusement on his face, finally spoke. "Alright, now that we're done with the introductions, let's get some dinner, shall we?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94z7r60Hh1 維尼
They all stared at each other for five seconds before moving towards the dining room. On the marble table were various dishes, all steaming hot and looking delicious. There were pizza and spaghetti, and some others which made Pierre feel a stab of homesickness for Russia, one that he hadn't felt in a long time. There were borscht, pelmeni, black bread, beef Stroganov, pirozkhi, and even medovik.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡoohYiQksb6 維尼
It reminded him of home. Of the time when they were all together. Of his mother.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡKufaARiPs0 維尼
Again, all of this reminded him of why he was called to this place and he felt his frustration rise.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡB5XXBRBuKq 維尼
He wondered then who prepared all of this. Did they do this on purpose? He eyed them all; Max seemed to hate him so it couldn't be him who was thoughtful enough to get all of this. And Pierre didn't know Parker anymore to gauge whether he would do something like this. His best bet would be Katya since she seemed to show effort in pulling him into this family feud, even though he tried to avoid her.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡFrh833gBjL 維尼
And if she did, where did she even get all of this at this hour? He didn't see any shops on his way here.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49w3MoWcnQ 維尼
Despite his annoyance that she wouldn't leave him alone, he also felt grateful enough that she seemed to be considerate and thoughtful towards him. Pierre hadn't felt comfortable being with a family – even though they're his family, except with his cousins in Scotland – due to his parent's separation. He was completely detached from them all, and he loathe to admit it, but Pierre had no clue of how to behave with them now.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XMkKNCgy0 維尼
Thoughts came and went while Katya volunteered to bring the dishes around, but one did stuck in his mind. It seemed as though Katya and Max were both staying with Parker in this grand place, and for a brief moment, he couldn't help the stab of jealousy at the thought of them eating these familiar food together – the food his mother used to make for them all.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0h9SDRL8QB 維尼
Even Parker, whose parents were Scottish American, but were raised by Pierre's mother seemed to resonate more with his Russian family.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8y5PCHIxna 維尼
I feel like I don't belong anywhere.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡEWjlQ1krF7 維尼
"Tea or coffee?' Katya asked him, snapping him out of his thoughts. He realised both Parker and Max were looking at him oddly.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡwrzvGEZqRm 維尼
He ignored them but managed to catch a smirk from Parker and a frown from Max. "Tea."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0AfDrOPmCT 維尼
And so the strange family of four ate in silence. For about five minutes.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8KLSWRIbr9 維尼
"Isn't this nice?" Katya broke the silence, smiling widely and sipping her tea while looking at them all.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡBm3Xfu3Ruo 維尼
Parker returned her smile with a grin, and for a miniscule moment, Pierre recognised that familiar boyishness he remembered of his older but half-brother, several years ago when they were younger.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ09sBCSAN7 維尼
"It is. I believe the last meal we all had together was years ago, when we went for a picnic on the beach. Isn't that right, Pierre?" Parker turned to look at Pierre.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHAfuJhG9Y 維尼
He remembered that day and nodded slowly, continuing eating the first food he chose, a piece of the black bread quietly. He thought Parker would stop at that, but it seemed his older brother was only warming up.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9sqIE66rn 維尼
"What's with the little portion, little brother? Go on and help yourself, Pierre. We all know how much you love borscht and medovik, besides that bread." Then he chuckled. "Milena loves to spoil us all, especially you two." Parker grinned at both Pierre and Max. Katya smiled fondly at the memory.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡtnrLseEGlb 維尼
Max tried to suppress a genuine smile but it seemed strained on his face.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡiyBOfXLMN4 維尼
Pierre couldn't take it anymore. He couldn't sit there and pretend like what happened in the past didn't matter. His jaw ticked and before he knew it, he blurted the words he tried to forget.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7lQv5V580N 維尼
"What, you mean the woman who abandoned me?" He shot at them, words leaving a hot trail behind them.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡwLewl71jQ0 維尼
Parker's expression changed and Katya looked at him in disbelief, but no one expected Max's outburst.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡAiVh3UySGd 維尼
"How you dare you speak of her like that! Ty nevezhestvenen – "8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6cCuQGZ3zB 維尼
"That's enough!" Parker roared and the air stilled. He shot them both a steely gaze before saying quietly to Pierre, "Is it really hard for you to see us again, bràthair beag?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡEUaSMRehfd 維尼
Even in his anger, Pierre recognised the hurt he heard in Parker's voice, and suddenly he felt like a nine year old. The little boy who hadn't built a wall around his heart, the kid who still saw everything through rose-coloured glass. And if he hadn't already missed both Scotland and Russia, hearing Parker called him that in Gaelic suddenly made him feel very lost.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡPHnpZ0EOeU 維尼
"I don't know," He answered wearily. He was tired of feeling angry all the time, and he was confused as to why they suddenly wanted him back in their lives. "Why are you doing this?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡrvU9IgLpNo 維尼
Pierre looked at them in frustrated helplessness. And just like that, the other three occupants glanced at one another with a sharp steel of determination. The looks on their faces as Parker asked him the next question further pushed him into an abyss of confusion.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡa3Lv1lKKhy 維尼
Katya looked at him almost pitifully, Max shook his head at him with clear hurt in his eyes, although Pierre didn't know what or who caused that sudden look in them.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCs5Ox3l9M 維尼
Parker, whose jaw was tight earlier ticked again, before he asked, "What have athair told you?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡL02pDQbnma 維尼
Although the date happened three days ago, December still couldn't believe it happened.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡFB6sMObomK 維尼
That she had actually went on a date with Zachary Wong. It had felt surreal as though she was still on the cloud and hadn't set foot on ground.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡuPIQ13xV8F 維尼
It was wonderful, and she had thoroughly enjoyed it, especially when they talked through the night at the ice cream parlour.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡpYj1l3twD9 維尼
The movie had just finished and the both of them were still in town, walking side by side in a mindless stroll. They still had two hours before their curfew.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡNnqHyUKtvQ 維尼
"Can you believe that she was three hundred years old? Maybe more! Oh, I love the movie. And the song." December gushed about the new movie they had just seen.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡRjdyj06VnX 維尼
Zach chuckled and nodded. "Yes, that was awesome. And the whole fighting scene was just..." he made a mind-blown gesture and sound, and December's eyes lit up more in excitement. "One of my favourites."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡDXmI6VtKMu 維尼
"Yes! That was definitely one of my favourite scenes, too. Great minds think alike, eh?" She grinned at him, nudging his shoulder twice before she reminded herself to be more proper.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Z7oJZ6Rsr 維尼
While she knew she was not elegant and gentle such as girls like Serena, she still wanted to be on her best behaviour. Possibly, because Zach reminded her of those noble lords and ladies in the books she'd read. Of genteel men and women she'd seen in movies and books.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡT07Mn3LYdY 維尼
She also felt like shaking herself into reality, because she needed to stop referencing her life with those romance novels already.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡIyzZ7kL9Bt 維尼
The point she was trying to make to herself was that, she felt an urge to make him see that she was more than an archery board committee, than just a girl. She wanted him to have the best impression of her.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡp8enEgdXIK 維尼
"Indeed," He replied, sounding thoughtful but delighted at the discovery.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡqPcU9m4GuI 維尼
There were still people milling around, on the streets and in the shops as cars and other vehicles wheezed past them, each minding their business as the night grew on.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡyyKUjo1Avi 維尼
December noticed the proximity of their hands touching; it was so close, that she wanted to just give in to her urge to brush her hands with his. But she didn't want to seem eager.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡAx9pfj6MYF 維尼
But you are eager to hold his hand, her conscious mind pointedly reminded her.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡNHT6SQtvrl 維尼
That is true, she mused. She glanced at Zach, looking around and pointing places at her, noting some information that he knew to her and chuckling at some things that amused him. She felt herself smiling softly at him, eyes adoring him.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡrfrlJ0JY5t 維尼
She still can't believe that she was going out with her long time crush, Zach. There had been many times she'd looked at him from a far, sometimes paying too much attention to what he was saying when they were in a discussion, and other times – most times – getting distracted by his presence. And now, she was standing beside him, on a date, hands touching one another in any second now…8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1MQilzaqY 維尼
Should she wait? They have been walking for twenty minutes now, and she had been waiting for him to take the lead. But what if he was shy?8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFVYyocdNp 維尼
She shook her head and muttered quietly to herself with a grin, "Well, I don't suppose there will be double standards in this date. Who says a girl can't initiate a gesture?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbqp3L1hp2 維尼
Zach chose that moment to turn his gaze towards her and said, his eyes alight, "Hm? Did you say something, December?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ8ohMDZWuw 維尼
December shook her head, eyes wide as if caught red-handed. "Mm? Oh, nothing!"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡRouYt6X6uo 維尼
Instead of braving herself to speak the words she wanted to say to him, she pointed to something that caught her attention and said, "Oh, look! There's an ice cream shop. Should we get some?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡO7VLKmIZeN 維尼
He smiled, she beamed, and in they went, all thoughts about double standards and courage being lost in her happiness.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡAo6zRjppMa 維尼
They had gotten their bowls of ice creams; December with two huge scoops of strawberry and vanilla with thick chunks of mango jellies topped with some dribble of syrup and Zach; having the same huge scoops of vanilla with chunks of bananas, and some sprinkles.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡxGzVFSCkkv 維尼
They both looked at one another, smiles spreading on their faces before attacking their desserts like kids in a candy store. It was one of the things she loved about tonight. She had even forgot to be prim and ladylike in that moment, which didn't seemed to bother Zach at all as he was immersed in his ice cream. She felt herself relax in the moment and not care about anything else.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡMc8JY70So9 維尼
"I know I've said this before, but I really think you look beautiful tonight. I mean, you've always looked beautiful but you know, tonight…" He was beginning to feel flustered and December noticed not only his cheeks were flushed, but his ears too.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ55lJqyXASw 維尼
She had to pipe down the urge to squeal at how cute Zach was and touch his face.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5zY5WNlfIh 維尼
Although, she did giggle. Her outfit was a floral but black printed baby doll dress that ended a little above her knee and one that was chosen and fixed by Brooke and Raven – "not too skanky like 'please eat me up' and not too prudish either", Brooke had said with a smug look – and they paired her with her denim jacket and a pair of cherry red combat boots.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡGotD7cT92i 維尼
When she saw the dress, she immediately fell in love with it. It was pretty, and December had no clue why she hated to shop for dresses before. It fitted her snugly, the accentuation of her small waist, the flare of the skirt. The design of the heart shape on her neckline wasn't too low or too high, it rest perfectly which allowed a hint of cleavage to show. It wasn't too revealing or too covering at all, and despite Brooke's crude words, she had to agree with it.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8yVc3UqmKM 維尼
December loved the entire look, and she loved her friends for choosing it.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡhwV5Hr5Uds 維尼
"Well, that's very nice of you to say that. Thank you." She said shyly, tucking a few stray strand of hairs behind her ear.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡOSnyDffvVs 維尼
Zach looked at her and smiled, his dimple became prominent every time he did that. "So…" he started before his phone rang. Thoughts shifted, he looked at her apologetically before fishing out his device.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡFctGC5uvfi 維尼
He stared at it and bit his lip before saying to December, "I'm sorry, December but it's Sid. Do you mind if I take this?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡLmKyn9EWSz 維尼
"Oh! Sure, of course, I don't mind." She waved him off with a beaming smile.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡbkIJo1Qgff 維尼
She wondered what Sid needed from Zach. Of course, they were best friends but that also meant that he knew Zach was on a date with her tonight, right?8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡsempDpDRnx 維尼
She shook the thoughts out of her mind. I mustn't be selfish. He's his best friend, and I don't know what's going on. Best to not make any assumptions.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡlDExFOuNU0 維尼
The call took about five minutes or less before Zach came back, his face cheery but still a little constrained. "Sorry for keeping you waiting."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0NJACMJC8Z 維尼
December shook her head. "Did something happened? You look a little pale."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡSxXzPMGWHP 維尼
He blinked. "What? Oh. No. I mean, yeah. Well… I'm not sure if you know this but Sid had broken up with Fiona," At that, December gasped in surprise. Zach continued with a sympathetic nod. "Yeah, I know. Who would have thought of that, right? They're so good together. It seems like they were trying to get back together now but his parents threatened him or something."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2V8sdGehaz 維尼
"That's awful. What did he say?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡGWiAvLF2XR 維尼
"It's more like what did he do." This time, he grinned and December felt her heart ease a little. "Let's just say that in his family, there's the line of 'you give some, and you take some.'"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4T5wTp7lU5 維尼
December raised an eyebrow. "Well that sounds…very strict. And calculating."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡTaeIFvlLRJ 維尼
"Yes, but Sid's a smart guy, and he was born in the family who upholds that motto. It may be tough but he knows how to manage things well. In some way, I admire that about him."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡNE0K303WRh 維尼
She chuckled. "I hope they'll be okay."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡI5rVWQOj1c 維尼
He nodded and pocketed his phone. "Knowing him? They will." Then, he said, "Let's talk about something else. Something that we haven't known about each other."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡWApcrP8fEH 維尼
She paused to ponder in thought before saying, "Twenty One Questions?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡVqkfScjBMx 維尼
Zach nodded. "Ladies first."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5fQQoL3T5z 維尼
She chuckled lowly. "Ever the gentleman. Okay, umm… if you had to choose between Chess and Archery for the rest of your life, which one would it be?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡk40guHfciG 維尼
He laughed lowly, and the sound made her heart leapt. "Oh, that's easy. Archery." He said with such certainty that December had to raised her eyebrow, her mouth quirked in amusement.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡYQtyRyGLKl 維尼
"I'm glad to know that you love our sport so much. Let me guess, got roped in to the club?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡIhrzSagYyj 維尼
He widened his eyes as if he couldn't believe she had just figured him out. "Wow, are you a psychic or something? That's impressive." He grinned and beckoned her closer. In a voice reserved for secrecy, he said, "By the vice president, to be exact."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡHih0hUZ8QL 維尼
She opened her mouth in surprise before eliciting a delightful laugh. It was the only sound that resonated in the empty parlour, drowning the quiet thrum of the music in the speakers.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡDThbwqscdN 維尼
They didn't notice that their curfew was nearing and that the shop was about to close, because they were both in their own moment, slowly basking in the pleasant night that seemed to grow long yet cut short.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡimKhbN4K6b 維尼
She followed suit and leaned closer, faces almost close but not to the point of intruding their personal space. "That's very kind of you. But hey, by the many awards your club have received, you can't say you haven't developed a liking towards the game, can you?" She grinned, her eyes twinkled before she rolled them good-naturedly. "Oh, and I wish." She was referring to his earlier comment.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4YfNru115t 維尼
He threw his head back, and laughed before looking at her. He didn't think he had ever laugh so much in just a night.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡsyGrwN0pOb 維尼
Zach looked at December fondly. "You're cute, you know that? And yes, to answer your question, it would be hard not to. It's very addictive." He said matter-of-factly before breaking into a charming grin.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡXBvo5iO3Na 維尼
She shook her head and bit her lip shyly. He was intoxicating her and she was getting warmer. December needed to think of something else, and fast before she did something that would throw them both off-guard…like kissing him or something.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡhHYIvHHuUK 維尼
"I believe that it's your turn now." She said quietly, her smile almost guarded. Her throat was dry despite the sugary dessert, and she thought she may need some water. She asked for one just in case.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Rak89gaL5 維尼
And at least one of her musings were right, because Zach was caught off guard, as if he had forgotten the purpose of their game and she was glad for that. But he had licked his lips and she tried her best not to glance at it. She really needed to control herself. Another inch closer and they would have breached each other's space.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡM0Unh6tTP3 維尼
And maybe experiencing the best kiss of her life.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡE4u28Gaq0V 維尼
Okay, no this is my first date, and even though I would love to kiss him, I don't think that's okay for first dates…right? Maybe I should watch out for some cues later.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6GYUgFAQqO 維尼
"You're right, I forgot." His voice brought her back to planet Earth. "So, what about fears? Do you have any fears?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡW1l1PKttHs 維尼
She narrowed her eyes at him playfully. "Everyone has fears, Zach. But I think you meant to ask what, hm. Well…" she dragged the word and just like he did earlier, December beckoned him closer.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡF9oMTqVdxL 維尼
Once he did, she said to him, almost in a whisper, "The thing is, a lady never tells her weakness."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡsoKTICnELS 維尼
He drew back, shook his head and chuckled. "I thought that applies only to their age?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡI5ISQqmFtC 維尼
She shook her head solemnly. "No, it applies to everything. Their height, favourite food, drinks, games, and yes, even their favourite sports."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Dics5rAsM 維尼
He raised an eyebrow disbelievingly before narrowing them into suspicion. But his lips were smiling. "You're a humorous girl, now that's another thing I know about you."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1IMmqAzihg 維尼
She pretended to be hurt. "I thought you've always known that about me."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡVJOfZdMHIk 維尼
He winked at her, and she almost fell off her seat. Damn it, December, get it together.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡfnZMAkdx4V 維尼
"I guess you know another thing about me, too."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡy1Vt8OiMcp 維尼
She was taken aback by his remark and could only shake her head at him, eyes lit up in immense joy and cheeks hurting from smiling too much. "Touché."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡPEjhIX8wez 維尼
"In other words, checkmate."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡGUpPIbfWst 維尼
She couldn't help it, she lost her composure and laughed. Laughed until there were tears in her eyes, laughed until he joined her.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡRP5P0sHpXB 維尼
After a while, they sobered up and December eventually relented. "Okay, I'll be fair in this. Well, let's see…one of my fears is...being laughed at. There, I've said it. Now, my turn." She uttered them in a rush and so cheerfully that it made Zach frowned, and December wanted to smooth the frown away, but she swallowed inaudibly and said, "So, what's your fear?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡhOqgQMGakY 維尼
His frown eased as he tilted his head at her before nodding. "I guess it is only fair. Alright, Miss Scarborough. Brace yourself now, because I'm going to indulge you in a grave secret of mine. Keep in mind, that should anyone be privy of this information, not only will my reputation suffer, but my pride as well."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡv1RpgaZ2Zy 維尼
He sounded theatrical, but December could hear a hint of anxiety as well as she composed a serious and focused look, despite her surprise in knowing that. But of course, even the most flawless seeming person have flaws too. It's human nature.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡjNBFaYONm6 維尼
With a seriousness she could muster, she said, "Oh no, we certainly can't have that. But fear not, my kind sir, for your secret shall remain with me for all eternity." To emphasise the point, she nodded rigorously.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ztnnNzBdP 維尼
At that, Zach's face broke out into a soft smile. "For eternity, huh. That's a long time, December."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡewpKkl2ZZM 維尼
"But I mean what I said. Can't have the Captain be exposed to danger." She quipped before inquiring curiously, "So, what is it that you fear?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡhrAukTMKgv 維尼
"Flying. Which is ironic, because I've wanted to be a pilot for quite some time. But maybe I'm not cut out for that."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡsR7ykg9qGw 維尼
December stored the new information.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡV3tRxkGrBP 維尼
It delighted her in a way that she was learning new things about him, to see another side of him only she knew but it also made her feel sorry for him that he felt this way. She was learning new things about him, and him, hers but she didn't like how low he seemed to feel about it.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡvC7j3eQwE7 維尼
She wanted to lift him up, to see that beautiful and confident smile on his face.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5XNVi0mjer 維尼
She hesitated at first, but decided to plough on. Her hand were inches away from his, and with a sudden courage, she grasped it. It was bigger than hers and soft, although it had some rough edges to it. No doubt caused by years being an archer. But December loved the feel of his hand in hers.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡASTDcIYEgc 維尼
"You could overcome it." She said gently.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡsOLWKPAsHZ 維尼
December bit her lip, unsure if he would subtly take his hand out or –8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡPEmRrwFpFG 維尼
Zach smiled at her, albeit a little sad, but his hand stayed firm in her grip and she felt her heart soar when he rubbed her knuckles softly. "It's not as easy as it sounds, though December."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ63HKENplTT 維尼
She nodded and said truthfully, "I know, Zach. But if it's you, I know you can do it. I believe in you." Just to drive those words home, she squeezed his hand with assurance.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡHb9aCl3ZvG 維尼
They stared at each other long, and December suddenly felt as though she was being pulled towards him. When she realised that both of their faces were coming closer, the store clerk came to their table and mention that they were closing.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡOo5wVX39Ki 維尼
At the mention of the time, they both sobered up and left the parlour, albeit reluctantly. Despite that, occasionally they would chuckle at the things they had said and shared in the shop. They walked until Zach's driver arrived to fetch them back to the academy, and they talked through the drive.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡzedd9cuTZK 維尼
Back at the academy, Zach and December were making a quiet journey towards her dormitory. They were certain they would be caught by the guardians of their dorms, but with luck on their side, they wouldn't get caught because they arrived ten minutes earlier before curfew.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡD1AbYLwAg3 維尼
"Sucks that we have curfew, huh." December started, breaking their peaceful walk.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡGwnfYp0s75 維尼
Zach hummed in acknowledgement. "I agree. I had so much fun tonight. If only we have all the night to ourselves, the amount of things we could do would be countless."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6qgaCToELM 維尼
He didn't mean for it to sound the way it did, she was sure, but having friends like Brooke and Jethro, December couldn't help the unbidden and traitorous flush that warmed her cheeks and body. She willed herself to focus on the actual meaning of what she thought he meant to say.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡqLvHG2SLlv 維尼
Because Zach must not have meant to say something that wasn't filed with innuendos. She didn't think it was like him.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5jq4lmtIPE 維尼
And sure enough, he froze in his steps and December knew now what would happen next.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡyqugZxwwyq 維尼
"Uh, wait. That suddenly sounded…not what I intended it to sound like. I hope you know that I didn't mean it in that way, December." Zach looked at her apologetically, his face flushed with embarrassment.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡptdiCWTME5 維尼
She couldn't help it. December giggled at the foolishness of the situation. "Of course, Zach. Don't worry about it."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡkhjfb2g3X9 維尼
He nodded and smiled, looking down at the cobbled steps leading towards the nearing dorm, before looking back at her.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡjNYCX07RQQ 維尼
"Thanks for going out with me tonight, December."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡADwk9UBU8V 維尼
They were now steps away from the dormitory, a little shaded by the big tree above them, the lamp post near the thick trunk casting a soft orange glow to their shadows. December halted in her steps.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9lkwYE2Msz 維尼
Did she hear him right? She thought so and if possible, she wanted to melt then.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVkiHXzjS7 維尼
She couldn't find the right words at first. She opened her mouth, closed, and opened them again, this time having found what she wanted to tell him.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Jr4OrCRYA 維尼
With a gentle look, she smiled lovingly at him, "It's my pleasure, Zach. I really enjoyed our date."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡKX6Q1s7OJh 維尼
The wind picked up and swept the dry leaves on the ground, the tree leaves rustling, its ancient rhythm of dancing to the wind never changing. The moon was bright, but by the faint scent of the earth in the air, there was the possibility of rain tonight.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡmcoSZlas4H 維尼
Zach took a step closer to December and her heart skipped a beat. Maybe this is the cue, she thought to herself.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡf0ggcdsU5u 維尼
She wanted to move but found her feet frozen. He was getting closer now; close enough that she could see his lidded eyes, and that beautiful long lashes of his, close enough that she could trace the shape of his lips, to feel the ghost of it, close enough to taste the smell of his cologne, to –8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡPPLPeGWWGd 維尼
Lighting struck the sky, and seconds later, a loud boom of thunder were heard.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡaXVA44xbaW 維尼
And just like that, the spell was broken. Surprised, they bumped and hit onto each other's foreheads, looking then chuckling quietly, glancing away from one another. Embarrassed at being startled.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡkaT6JtXub1 維尼
The moment may have been broken, but December was storing the events that happened tonight till right at that very moment in her memory. She wanted to cherish and dream it.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡGv9un0RVR7 維尼
"Well, I think you'd best get in before Hilda finds us out here." Zach said, his voice scratchy and he cleared his throat.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡeWrYZ41k7h 維尼
December chuckled softly. "Right. Well, thank you for tonight, Zach."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡaaqcLinqsO 維尼
He smiled deeply, and nodded. Then, he leaned in slowly, his eyes meeting hers as he whispered, "May I kiss you?"8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡkNt1OdHPfp 維尼
Eyes wide, she found herself in a trance. She licked her suddenly dry lips and when she could not find her voice, she only nodded and mouthed, 'yes'.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡcV1GeDDNKi 維尼
Zach smiled and leaned closer. December's eyes were starting to flutter close, but before she could actually close her eyes, Zach planted a soft yet firm kiss on her cheek and her eyes widened in surprise.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡryhAOG5NCk 維尼
A pleasant, warm and full of tingle surprise.8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29RGViWnXe 維尼
"Good night, December."8964 copyright protection333ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66J5EegcNy 維尼
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