*EEYYYYY YO GUYS. WELCOME BACK TO ANOTHER CHAPPY CHOO (wtf rly?)! I WANNA SAY THANKS TO TEH WAIFU ScarletLeCreepy  SINCE SHE PRACTICALLY HELPED WITH THE ENTIRE CHAPTER (literally, I was hella stuck). THIS ONE IS LIKE SUPER LONG LIKE...LONGER THAN KP's CHAPTER 78 AND THAT SHIT'S LOOOOONG. (This chapter is approximately 12,000 words long.) BUT, I HOPE YOU'RE WILLING TO READ AND ENJOY IT ANYWAY!

Questions!!:
-How was your Halloween/what did you dress as? (I was Deadpool, as all of my Insta followers will know since I spammed ridiculous photos.)
-What's your favorite candy? (I. Love. Kit Kats.)

SONG IN THE MULTIMEDIA IS Lights by EMRBZ! HAVE A GREAT DAY AND I'LL SEE YOU AROUND!*

Stay Creepy, My Friends!~

Chapter 48

Ao's POV

"Are you okay?"

Craig responded to my question, looking up from his textbook and class work. The both of us sat at a table in the school library, seated together for a study session. He cocked an eyebrow. "I'm fine, why do you ask?"

I shrugged and placed my pencil onto my notebook. "You've just been acting a little strange lately," I replied, "I assumed something was going on." I looked him in his brown eyes, sharply but not aggressively. He stared back, not looking away for a good few seconds.

I know something's wrong. Kayla and I witnessed it yesterday. The sound of the enraged, cold slap on Xavier's face still echoes in my mind like it echoed over the trees that day. Kayla and I haven't talked about it since but we have given each other looks throughout the day. Now I'm finally going to confront this with Craig.

After our staring contest, he shook his head and said, "Nothing's wrong." I could see the placidness in his eyes. Not a hint of recognition in those irises. I've never seen him do that kind of thing and if I hadn't witnessed what happened yesterday between Xavier and him and if I hadn't studied his behavior these past few days, I would've completely believed him. I've never viewed Craig as a good liar, but damn he's good.

I tried to hide the disappointment in my features but it seems I'm not such a good liar myself. Craig read me like a children's book. "What's going on?," he asked.

I frowned slightly. "That's what I'd like to know," I quipped.

"Know what?"

I couldn't take Craig's acting anymore. I let him have his closure but now this is just pissing me off. Impatient and concerned, I hissed, "Why you and Xavier have been acting so weird."

"He's stressed out because of his upcoming track competition," Craig lied.

Xavier is never nervous, especially when it comes to track. He's one of the best runners I've seen and he's been doing it ever since he learned how to walk. I've met his parents, they've told me stories about him and his running. He's steadfast but never overshoots. He's a model runner. So, Xavier doesn't get nervous.

"How nervous is he? Enough for you to slap sense into him?" I almost felt bad for replying the way I did. Almost.

That got Craig. I saw him gulp and he cast his eyes down to the table. "You saw," he whispered. I nodded and added, "So, did Kayla."

He sighed and placed his pencil down onto the table, then leaned back in his chair. He rubbed the back of his neck and had this look of defeat in his eyes. There's no way he can lie his way out of this. I've got him where I want. I'm not especially satisfied with the way I did it but I succeeded in what I wanted nonetheless.

Craig ran a hand through his black hair and said, "I suppose I should tell you what's wrong..."

"No duh," I remarked.

Craig folded his arms over his chest and took in a deep breath before saying, "I heard about this student named Aaron Witek who does a bunch of custom stuff for different kinds of things. Skateboards, shoes, backpacks, electronic devices. The works. For good prices. I decided to get in touch with him because I wanted him to make these really nice and special running shoes for Xavier."

The frown on my face lightened at the mention of Aaron, the red headed kid who I'd seen with Craig. That explains his part in this.

"Why?," I asked.

"Because," Craig started, "...Xavier has been doing really well in Chemistry and in his other classes, too. He's more confident about school work and he's less stressed. I thought I should get him a surprise gift for doing so well. So, Aaron and I made a deal that he'd make the shoes and I'd pay him with my own money and the money Xavier paid me."

"Okay, so why is Xavier mad?," I mentioned.

Craig scoffed and said, "He's a butt hurt dumbass...!"

A passing librarian shushed him and Craig apologized for his outburst.

Craig turned back to me and continued. "He thought I was hanging out with the wrong crowd. Aaron hangs out with Daniel sometimes but the guy admitted he doesn't really like that stupid Neanderthal. He only sticks around for the money the jock gives him for booze. Bastard pays a lot, surprisingly."

"And, since all of us don't really like him..."

"Xavier thought I was getting into some stuff," Craig practically read my mind. "He's such an idiot. Then, as if he didn't realize how much of a dick he was being--."

The librarian passed by and shushed him again.

"Sorry!" Craig hissed. He went on. "Xavier thought Aaron and I were...ya know.."

My eyes widened. "Oh."

"Yeah. Oh. Imagine the look on his face when I told him he was wrong. What you saw yesterday was him and I arguing about his assumption. I told him he was wrong. He told me I didn't have to be so secretive if that wasn't the case. I told him my shit was none of his business and the conversation spiraled out of control from there..."

"Why'd you curse him out and slap him?"

Craig sighed and scratched his face. "Because...," --he paused-- , "...he told me 'what if I cared about your business' and that...that pissed me off."

I furrowed my brow. "Why? That actually sounds nice."

"That's why I hated it," Craig huffed, looking as exasperated as he had during his and Xavier's argument yesterday. He placed a hand on his face a murmured, "For five years...five fuckin' years--!" He looked over his shoulder for the librarian but she didn't come by this time. "Five years," he continued, "I've wanted him to say those words. I've wanted him. You and Kayla always joked about it and that was fine because it sounded nice to me. So nice that it consumed me. It came to the point where I needed to stop because it would crush me in the end. 'Xavier would never like me back' I always thought. 'He's a guy, I'm a guy. It's never going to happen'. I tried to let go but I just couldn't. Until just a few weeks ago. Finally, I started to get over him. The thought of him talking to me and even looking at me didn't excite me anymore. I was free of my stupid crush! And, as soon as I'm free...he tells me that. He starts to care. You know how frustrating that is? How unfair?"

Craig put his head down on the table and sighed. I stared down at his head and pursed my lips. I've never gone through that sort of thing but I can understand how it can feel terrible. I never thought this bothered him so much. But, the question still stands.

"Do you still like him..?," I asked quietly.

Craig kept his head on the table and stayed like that for quite some time. He finally lifted his head and his eyes were glassy. "Y-Yes," he whimpered and my heart broke. I got up from my seat and walked around the table, wrapping him up in a big hug. He pressed his face into my shirt and cried quietly. I ran my fingers through his hair in a comforting manner and just held him. The librarian passed by again and she gave us looks. I waved her off and she nodded before continuing whatever she was doing. I leaned my head into Craig's and kept hugging him as he let out his frustration.

After a minute or two, Craig let go of me and looked up at me with red eyes. I gave him a smile and brushed his hair back. I used my jacket sleeve to wipe away his remaining tears and said, "Are you going to be okay..?"

He shrugged and said, "Yeah..."

"Do you wanna talk about it some more..?"

He shook his head. "Just hold me, Blue," he murmured. I nodded and hugged him some more. He sniffled a few times and said, "I love you, Blue-Boo, you know that?"

"Of course," I giggled softly, "I love you too, Craigy Pie." I heard him chuckle and I smiled.

After another minute or two, Craig pulled his head back and asked, "You've been acting strange, too. Is there something going on with you?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Well, gee, I don't know. You've been exercising a lot more. You're wearing contacts. You're actually wearing make-up. Also, I haven't forgotten the fact that you hopped onto a motorcycle with some guy I've never heard of."

Holy crap I forgot all about that.

"About that...," I started, but the school bell rang before I could say anything. We both sighed and Craig said, "We can talk about this later."

"S-Sure." I got my things together and carried my backpack. Craig and I walked out of the library and into the hall where students rushed around to get to class. The both of us looked at each other, smiled and walked in separate directions to attend our next classes.

...

Craig brought me back home later that day in his truck. He didn't bring up the motorcycle thing and I'm hoping he forgets to. I don't have any excuse for that event.

I hope he feels better.

"Me, too, Sam," I responded as I unlocked the front door. Upon walking in, I felt this strange pressure. The air wasn't right. This wasn't just some feeling like dread. Physically the air was denser and it made me sick. I twisted my lips into a grimace and placed my backpack by the front door for now.

This feels familiar.

I didn't respond to Sam's remark but I agree. Quietly, I walked towards the backdoor and opened it to check outside. Suddenly, I was met with a wave of pressure and nausea. It was so strong that I nearly feel to my knees.

"Good afternoon, Ao."

I looked up after regaining my composure and saw the tall, looming figure of Slenderman. Then I hit me that today was magic training.

"Afternoon, sir," I huffed, trying to ignore the throbbing in my head from Slenderman's presence. I found Ms. P admiring my parents' garden. She shifted her attention to me and gave me a pleasant smile. "Hello, Ao. Nice to see you in one piece! We heard what happened yesterday."

"Oh yeah," I chuckled lightly. "I'll be fine."

"That's good to hear," she said. "Because now we can finally get into your magic training! Try not to pass out on us again."

"I'll try," I murmured, head still pulsating.

Ms. P waved her hand in the air and brought out the black leather bound book from the other day. She tucked it under her arm and asked, "Now, before we begin, have you had any experience with magic or had any indication of your abilities?"

I thought about her question. "Um," I started, "sometimes the proxy symbols show up on my body in random places and more than one at the same time."

"Just like the other day," Ms. P remarked.

I nodded. Then, I remembered something else. It has only happened three times but it was something important. "Whenever I touch symbols, I get these strange visions. Like...a connection with whoever bears that symbol. Everything they experience feels real to me, almost as if I am them. So far, the things I've seen and felt haven't been pleasant..." I grabbed my right arm where I can still remember the pain of it being sawed, cauterized and then modified with a metal prosthesis, what Elizabeth went through. I remembered the fear Jack felt when he watched --I watched-- his skin turn gray. And, the other time I interacted with Jack's Ouroboros symbol, when I went temporarily blind. I'm still a bit confused about that one. The vision didn't show me much, every moment was a blur that kept getting worse.

"That's interesting, but it isn't impossible," Ms. P said. "Previous proxies have had that ability before. Slender, who was it again?"

"Officer Jasper Maximilian and Maribel Umber, I believe," the tall entity answered. Ms. P nodded and smiled. "Is there anything more that you can share with us?," she asked.

My thoughts immediately went to Sam. Have previous proxies had beings like him talk to them?

Tell them.

"Yes, actually," I murmured.

Ms. P anticipated and I could only guess that Slender was doing so as well. I inhaled and then explained, "I have this voice in my head..."

"Oh my," Ms. P said, "you're diagnosed with schizophrenia, too?"

"What? No! It's not schizophrenia. I hope. What I mean is that there's this entity that resides in me. His name is Sam and he talks to me and he can also move things. Kind of like telekinesis but it's not by my hand."

"I see," Ms. P murmured. She looked up at Slender. "What do you think of this?"

Slender faltered to answer for a moment and then said, "It's certainly...new."

"So, no previous proxies have had this before?," I inquired. Both of them shook their heads. Well, that sums up my earlier question. I don't know if I should feel special or a little concerned.

"Can you demonstrate these abilities to us?," Slender asked. I looked up at him, then had to look away because my eyes began to hurt. "I can try to," I said, "they sort of just happen."

"That's why we're here," Ms. P chimed, "to teach you how to hone your magical skills. Everyone starts off as inexperienced. It's our job to make sure you come to your fullest potential."

That made me feel better and I relaxed some. I can't demonstrate my connections to symbols. I doubt my proxy symbol could work. Jack and his Ouroboros symbol came to mind but then I finally realized that he isn't here. Maybe he's taking a break at the hideout or somewhere since he doesn't have to train me today. All that I knew was that the symbol demonstration had to wait.

I looked around at the backyard, trying to choose an object for Sam to pick up or move. My attention went towards the swinging bench and I pointed to it. "Sam, move the bench," I ordered. Slender and Ms. P turned around to watch the spectacle that was Sam's practical skills. He lifted the bench and dropped it, letting it swing back and forth. I looked at the two magical beings before me and I could tell it wasn't very impressive. Blushing, I started to think of something else. Suddenly, my attention went to Ms. P and her book and I got an idea.

Oh...! I gotcha!

I smiled and Sam went to work. To my surprise, Ms. P was lifted off of the ground and she yelped. My eyes went wide and I exclaimed, "No, wait! Sam! I wanted the book! The book!"

Oh shit.

Sam set the woman down on her feet. She looked startled and I hoped we didn't upset her.

Sorry.

"He apologizes," I stammered to Ms. P.

She chuckled and said, "It's quite alright. I'm impressed."

She thinks I'm cool.

I chuckled at Sam's remark.

"Please demonstrate your next ability," Slender said. I nodded and thought to present the proxy symbols. That's one ability that I cannot completely control. It's happened at random times. That time at the club, that evening the patient Corrupted attacked, the encounter with the white haired man and the other day when Ms. P held my hands. That's as much as I can remember.

I closed my eyes and focused on those moments, remembered the emotions that I felt. The burning sensation on my skin. The scarlet light they radiated. The powerful, overwhelming feeling that surfaced from inside. I concentrated as hard as I could to experience all of that again. I tried not to pay attention to the passing minutes. My body was relaxed. My mind only on the symbols.

Then, to my joy, I felt the burning sensation again on my hands. I opened my eyes and looked down to see the all too familiar scarlet proxy symbol glowing brightly. "I did it!," I exclaimed happily. But, I grew to regret my actions. The symbol gradually burned hotter and brighter and I became uncomfortable.

"Can you stop it?," Slender asked.

"Um, sure, just give me a second," I murmured. I concentrated on stopping it but the pain I felt kept me from making clear thoughts. The back of my hand burned where the symbol took its place. I shook my hand around, getting uneasy. Suddenly, the symbol exploded scarlet vein patterns across my skin. They traveled under my jacket sleeve and I could feel them stop at my elbow. I screamed and grit my teeth to fight the pain. Ms. P quickly came over and tried to reach for my arm but I took it away. Deep down I knew whatever this was would hurt her.

She grabbed my face gently and had me look at her. "Breathe, Ao," she practically sighed. "Close your eyes and breathe."

I gulped and did as she said. I could feel my arm shaking and twitching from the intensity of the pain. Ms. P's hands radiated a pleasant warmth on my skin that sent a wave of serenity through me. We stayed like this until the painful heat on my arm faded away. I let out a sigh of utter relief once it disappeared completely. I opened my eyes and looked down at my arm to see it was back to normal. No vein-like markings, no proxy symbol.

"Better?," Ms. P said. I nodded. She smiled and backed away, allowing me to catch a glimpse at her glowing, cool blue hands. The light faded from her palms by the time I figured out how she calmed me down.

"Eventually, you won't have to worry about that," she said, winking at me assuringly. She looked up at Slender and said, "So, shall we all get started with the real training?" Reluctantly, I nodded, and I was quite surprised to see Slender did the same.

Ms. P lead me over to the grass and we sat down next to the garden. "Lovely flowers," she complimented. I smiled. "My mother takes really good care of them," I mentioned. Ms. P smiled back. "Your mother has fine skills," she said. I looked over at all of the flowers and agreed.

She placed the book in between us and opened it up for me. "Let's start off small," she said, flipping through pages. After a few more pages, she came to stop and I saw her face fall just a bit. Her eyes held a strange nostalgia that concerned me. I looked down at the book to see what made her look so sad. The words blurred to arrange into English. A "destruction spell"?

Ms. P looked up at Slender and said, "Remember this one? This was the first one she ever learned."

"Who?," I asked.

"Elizabeth," Slender answered me.

There was a somber vibe between all three of us. I mustered up the courage to say, "You guys make it seem like she's dead."

Ms. P chuckled and replied, "We know she isn't. Jack told us everything. But..."

"She doesn't remember anything about us or her previous life at all," Slender interjected. "That in itself means she is a new person. No longer the girl she used to be. So, yes she is not dead, but she is gone. That is equally crushing."

I blinked up at him and understood. Is that how everyone else feels too? I wonder if the other friends Jack mentioned know she's alive. Would they stop whatever they're doing to see her again after two years? Would they be happy but also disappointed to find out she remembers nothing of her old life, just as Jeff, Ben, Jack, Slender and Ms. P feel?

That must be a terrible feeling.

I silently agreed with Sam.

I looked down at the book again and thought of Elizabeth learning this spell when she was her old self. I can't imagine her being her old self so I couldn't imagine her learning this. I wonder if the current Elizabeth remembers this spell.

Feeling this sense of determination, I turned the book around and read the incantation written on the old, yellow page. What I read was English, but what I spoke was a whole other language. That spooked me a bit. Once I was done reading the passage, I looked up at Ms. P. She smiled and said, "Concentrate and focus your energy into something." She picked up something from the grass and added, "Like this twig." She held it above her head and I stared at it.

I didn't know what to do exactly so I relaxed and kept staring at it. What's this spell supposed to do?

After a few minutes, I shook my head and said, "I don't feel anything."

"If you feel nothing then you are not meant for the spell," Slender said.

"Shouldn't that be the other way around," I questioned.

Ms. P shook her head. "Magic is an infinite body that circulates through reality. It's the independent variable. Spells are not made to abide to a single vessel. You must be in a worthy condition to gain a spell. If you are not fit for it, it will not submit itself to you. That is the way of magic."

"Think of spells as animals you must tame," Slender added. "Not all of them will eat out of your hand."

It's like Pokemon, but you can't catch them all. Unless you're Ash Ketchum. Then you can. But you're not. So you can't.

I sustained a chuckle.

"What about you two? Does this all abide to you?," I inquired.

Ms. P chuckled and said, "Well, no, not exactly. We are able to master spells as easy as blinking but only as much as our forms can receive. That is only because we are not mortal."

"Don't get disheartened," Slender said. "You'll find your right magic."

"Whether we aid you or not," Ms. P beamed. I will admit that I felt a lot better about all of this. These two aren't so bad. Which is great but it also saddens me because it makes me think about how Elizabeth can't remember how amazing these people are (if I can even call them people). No, I shouldn't think about Elizabeth's problems. I have to work on my own. I can't let my sympathy towards her determine how I train. I have to focus on what's best for me as the proxy, despite that I still find my role hard to accept.

"Let's continue," Ms. P said, bringing me out of my thoughts. I watched her turn pages, show me spells and I listened to her and Slender explain all that they could about each and every one. It was interesting but a lot to take in. But, they'll keep coming and I'll keep learning. I'll reach my full potential each day at a time. When I do, I'll make sure evil receives all that I have to offer.

...

Ms. P and Slender left an hour ago. Magic training went well enough. I can already tell I'll need a lot more extra training because spells don't seem to like me. My parents came home as soon as Ms. P and Slender left. My mother prepared dinner, all three of us ate together at the table and we did our own thing afterwards. My mother read her books, my father did his work in the study and I did homework in my room. I'm surprised I'm still passing school. I've handed in a lot of late assignments because of my training, which has resulted in lower grades than what I could've gotten. Today I got my interim grade report and I nearly had a heart attack at the sight of a 56 in my mathematics class. Thank god my parents don't check in on that because I'd be six feet under in the backyard by now...!

After another hour and a half, I completed all of my work and headed straight for the shower. When I undressed, I had reached up to take off my glasses but I only poked myself instead since I failed to realize I don't have them anymore. I told my parents that someone bumped into me in the hallway while I was trying to clean them and someone stepped on them. I gave them my glasses and they said they'd work on repairing the lenses. Now I was stuck with contact lenses until my glasses are mailed back to us. Not only am I still getting used to contact lenses but make-up too. I forget I'm wearing it whenever I rub my eye and stuff. That, with the addition of guys and girls bulging their eyes out when they see my face --mostly guys--, it's horrible. But, Jack just had to hit me in the face. I understand that real enemies won't be polite to me but holy hell...!

I got ready for bed after I finished showering and getting dressed. I looked in the vanity mirror for a moment and saw the dark bruises on my face. Make-up changes things drastically. It was significantly early for me to go to bed, 8:00 to be exact. My parents were surprised when I told them a quick goodnight and shut my room door. I felt exhausted and I wanted more sleep than I usually get.

"Goodnight, Sam," I murmured as I stuffed my face into a plush pillow.

Goodnight, Ao.

I closed my eyes and relaxed my body. It didn't take me long to fall asleep but I was woken up just as fast. There was a soft knock against my right-side window that stirred me awake. Checking the time, I saw that I had only gotten about fifteen minutes of sleep. I sighed and plopped back down into my bed. Just as soon as I got comfy, another tiny knock caught my attention and I threw the covers off of my body. Quietly, I stalked over to the window and peeked through the curtain. Down below I saw a figure in the shadows with a familiar blue mask. Curious, I opened the window and poked my head out into the cool night air.

"Jack? What are you doing here?," I asked as quietly as I could so I wouldn't catch my parents' attention.

"Were you asleep?," he inquired.

"Almost," I replied.

"Sorry."

"It's fine," I sighed, brushing my hair out of my face. "What brings you here?"

He was quiet for a moment, which puzzled me. I know he's usually quiet and his responses are hesitant but this time it feels different. Did something happen? Is it Jeff, Elizabeth and Ben? Ben hasn't dropped by at all today. Or was the hideout compromised?

Jack finally answered and said, "I came here to take you out for a little bit."

I cocked an eyebrow. "For training?"

"No," he answered, "I just wanted to meet with you away from your house."

I dropped my expression. "Jack, I'm tired and grounded. I can't leave the house, especially not at this time."

"It's eight."

"Still late," I retorted.

He sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. He dropped his arm hard against his side and said, "What if I told you that...I was taking you on a date?"

A blush spread across my confused face.

Aw snap.

I stammered, "A-A..what?"

"A date," Jack said. "Am I talking too low?"

"N-No, it's just..." I faltered. I checked the time on my alarm clock. 8:20pm. Then I stared at my feet, feeling myself shake from excitement. I poked my head back outside and said, "Okay...I-I'll get ready...!"

Before Jack could say anything else, I closed the window and quietly raced to my closet. I turned on the closet light and skimmed through my clothes to find something decent. Remember Ao, nothing too flashy but nothing that makes you look like you don't give a crap either! Think like Kayla! Wait, actually don't.

I ended up picking out a long-sleeved blue dress with two rows of buttons down the front. In the dim light I could see the black skulls that were scattered all over it. Since it was chilly outside, I grabbed some black, fitted pants, boots and a black jacket. Along with all of that, I plucked out a blue scarf. Being as quiet as possible, I changed into my outfit. I put my contact lenses in and sighed in relief when I could see clearer. Before I set off for the door, I caught one glimpse at my hair and sucked in a deep breath.

Oh god.

"I forgot about my hair," I hissed. I checked out the other window to see how Jack was and he was standing around, waiting for me. I checked the time on my clock. 8:27pm. I can afford to do my hair...right?

And so I did. I quickly did a crown braid, fixed up a few parts of my hair and then finished.

Ten outta ten would braid again.

"Good...! Now let's go!"

Wait.

I turned around and saw the pillows on my bed move around and get stuffed under my blanket, making it look like there was a sleeping figure.

Also...

One of the drawers of my vanity opened and out floated a blue flower pin. Sam placed it at the side of my head, tight and secure.

Que bonito..!

"Great...! Now let's go!" I turned off the closet light, picked up my boots, hand bag and spare keys and snuck towards my bedroom door. I opened the door and peeked my head out into the dark hallway. My parents' bedroom light wasn't on so I could only guess that they were still in the study. Quietly, I closed the door and tip toed through the hallway and down the stairs. Before I made it onto the bottom floor, I peeked over the banister to see into the downstairs hallway. I could spot the faint light of the study. It was quiet but I could hear my parents chatting. I looked at the front door and had a good feeling that I could sneak out. Tip toeing, I descended the stairs to the bottom floor. As soon as I was halfway to the front door, I heard my mother's voice say, "Watashi wa ni-kai ni watashi no rappu toppu o nokoshimashita. Tsukamatte iru." I froze in panic. (I left my laptop upstairs. Hold on.)

Quickly, I ducked into the kitchen before my mom came strolling out of the hallway. She went upstairs without a single regard towards my presence. I waited until she went upstairs and then came back down with her laptop in hand. She turned the corner into the hallway and then I heard the sound of the study door closing. I let out a sigh of relief and came out from the kitchen. I unlocked the front door and opened it softly. I tip toed outside, and carefully closed the door. I didn't bother locking the door because it makes a significant amount of noise that would catch my parents attention. I stood up straight and groaned.

That was close.

"No kidding," I murmured, putting on my boots, "How do rebellious teenagers do this?"

I walked around the house to get to Jack. I found him still waiting in the same spot under my window. He heard me and turned around to face me. "Are you ready to go?," he asked.

"Yeah," I said a little too eagerly.

He nodded and lead me away from the house. We walked to the gate, I unlocked it and we slipped through. "How do you manage to get over the fence, again?," I asked Jack as I closed and locked the gate.

"Ben always helps me," he responded.

"Oh," I mumbled, "handy."

The both of us stood out on the sidewalk. Jack looked down at me and said, "You look fantastic."

A huge smile played on my face and I said, "Thank you. You too. But, you know, not in a weird way. Not anything sexual--." I interrupted myself coughing.

You're not even a minute into the date, Ao.

I mentally face-palmed myself and nervously laughed. "So! Where to?"

"The park," Jack answered.

"It's still open at this time?"

He nodded. "There's a special event there that I think you'll enjoy."

"What is it?"

"It's a surprise," he said. I already felt thrilled and I had no idea what was going on. "Come on," Jack added, "Let's get going before we miss it." Jack held out a gloved hand towards me and I gingerly took it. To my joy, he held onto it as he pulled me into a walk. I felt like this was a dream. My head was floating in the best way. I can't believe Jack is actually taking me on a date...!

We walked for a while. I noticed Jack was still limping slightly. Must be the injury he gained weeks ago. I'm surprised it healed this fast. Usually it takes longer to recover from an impaled leg. I hoped he would be okay tonight. During our walk Jack asked me how my training went today. I told him everything I could. I told him how I thought Slender and Ms. P were really great. I even mentioned the headaches I get whenever Slender is around. "That's strange," Jack remarked, "Those usually go away on the first day. You're probably more sensitive to it." Maybe he was right.

What I found interesting about our talk was that Jack asked me how my school life has been. He's never been interested in that, only whenever I ask him for help with homework when he used to come over to hang out. I explained to him what I thought was worthwhile, which didn't consist of a lot. Only what was happening between Craig and Xavier, the homecoming, how I'm behind in my assignments.

"Sorry that training keeps you busy," he said. I shook my head and exclaimed, "N-No! It's fine, really. I'll just have to learn to manage more things."

"Also, I'm sorry for keeping you from that dance thing," he murmured.

I smiled. "Like I said, it's okay. I'm grounded anyway. Besides, to me the dances are the same thing. I'd rather just get an ice cream somewhere and talk."

"You don't take much to entertain," he commented.

"Is that a bad thing?"

He shook his head. "Not at all. It's oddly charming." I blushed in silent response.

We made it further away from my home and closer to the park. Jack still held my hand and I hoped he wouldn't let go for a while. We made it into more public areas with small shops and restaurants. Despite the lamp posts lit up, it was still dark. Jack suddenly tightened his hold on my hand and pulled me closer to his body. "Is there something wrong?," I asked.

He shook his head. "No, but I don't like walking around in the open at night. So...stay close to me." I didn't have a problem with that, mostly because Jack was holding onto me pretty securely. Not that I would want to get out of his grip in the first place. To take our minds off of our surroundings, I made a joke, "A neutron walks into a bar and asks the bartender how much for a drink. The bartender says 'for you, no charge'."

Jack stifled a soft --barely even a sound-- chuckle (though he was amused nonetheless) and said, "How about this one. Two chemists walk into a bar. The first says 'I'll have some H2O.' The second says 'I'll have some H2O too'. The second one dies."

A moment passed before I got it and laughed, "Oh! That's horrible..!"

We told several more horrible, clever science jokes to each other to pass the time. Strangely enough Jack never fully laughed like I would. He'd only manage barely audible snorts. I didn't question him about it, even though I felt awkward laughing away like I did.

After several minutes, the park came into view and I could feel my heart race with excitement. The gates were open, people walked around, the trees were adorned in lights that gave the long walkway a peaceful glow. I still couldn't really tell what was going on but I was eager to see.

Jack and I passed the threshold and walked along the cobblestone pathway. Our hands were still connected and I felt happy knowing we still held on. Although the chill of the weather didn't prevent the clamminess. At least Jack is wearing gloves.

People threw small, familial parties in the picnic area, I saw kids running around with toy light sabers that flashed different, vibrant colors. I began to see a pattern in this. A light festival. Or maybe people just like fancy lights.

Up ahead, I spotted movement through the trees. I recognized it as people. Jack lead me towards that area and I started to hear wonderful music. It got louder and louder the closer we got. We walked past the trees and finally I saw an open area full of people, dancing, chatting. The most interesting about this was that they all wore fancy, decorated masquerade masks. Little kids, elderly, adults.

"Hello!," a voice said to me and I looked to my right to see a lady. She was smiling and had a big bag in her hands. She looked up at Jack and said, "I see you've already brought your own mask."

Jack nodded and I gaped at him slightly. The lady looked to me and said, "Would you like a mask, ma'am?"

"Yes," I replied. She looked through her bag and pulled out a half mask with blue embroidery and paint. "It matches your outfit," she chuckled. I grabbed it and thanked her. She wished us a wonderful night and walked off, possibly to give out more masks.

I turned to Jack and smiled. "How clever of you," I commented.

"Of course," Jack responded. I chuckled and let go of his hand to put the mask on. As I adjusted the mask, I asked him, "How'd you find out about this?"

"I had some help from an elf," he answered. I immediately knew who he was talking about. Jack continued, "He helped me today by looking for events to go to that you and I would like. Fortunately, this was starting today and I thought I shouldn't miss out on it with you."

Once the mask sat perfectly on my face, I turned to Jack and said, "This is lovely. Thank you."

"Ben found this thing. I just had the idea. Plus don't thank me yet. There's more than this masquerade party."

The park already seemed wonderful itself. I wondered what else there was for us to see.

"What do you want to do?," Jack asked me.

I looked at all of the other people moving around in front of us. Laughing, cheering. The music that was playing wasn't anything classical, as expected of a masquerade. This isn't a traditional masquerade though. People wore jeans and T-shirts instead of poofy dresses and suits. They were rowdy instead of calm and modest. They danced modern dances or just jumped around rather than a waltz. Despite that everyone did one thing, I felt that I should do another. So, with a big smile on my face, I grabbed Jack's hand. "Let's dance," I said, gently pulling him into the masquerade.

Without protest, he grabbed onto my hip with his other hand and we stepped close to each other. I stepped to the right and then he stepped along with me. He awkwardly followed my small movements until he knew what I was doing and took the reins. He lead me back and forth, left and right, in long but graceful steps. I smiled up at him and giggled when he spun me around. I offered to spin him too but it didn't work out as well as I had hoped and he bumped into my arm. Still, I found it amusing and laughed. We kept gliding around, going slow, our dance vastly different than everything else around us. I caught people staring but I never faltered a beat. Jack never faltered either. He always held me close when we didn't need to and I loved it.

The music changed and the both of us gradually stopped. I measured the beat of the music and found it was a little faster than the previous song. Suddenly Jack held his hand out for me to take. I grabbed it and he pulled me towards him. He stopped me from bumping into him by grabbing my hands. He stepped back and I stepped forward, foot by foot, until the verse dropped in the song and he spun me. He held onto my left hand as I twirled out then he reeled me back in to do it again, holding onto my right hand the second time. We got together again and I felt my heart racing from the thrill. He held onto my hips and I wrapped my arms around his head. Left and right, right and left we shuffled our feet at a quick pace. It was hard to believe he even had an injured leg. We gradually turned a full circle and slowed when the song slowed. Sped up when the rhythm got faster. We held hands as we moved our arms back and forth in a playful manner. I laughed out loud in utter joy.

At one point when we tried going faster, Jack tripped and I fell down with him. The both of us groaned and I sat up next to him. "Are you okay?", I asked, laying a hand on his chest. He nodded. When he sat up, his hood finally fell down and he shook his head. I saw that his skin was slightly exposed and I knew he was particular with that. I didn't want him to wear his hood again so I unwrapped the scarf around my neck and placed it around his. "You can borrow my scarf," I told him, "That hoodie can't be the only thing keeping you warm. Plus, it's blue, which you like."

"Thanks," he murmured, pulling the scarf higher. I smiled, then stood and helped him up to his feet too.

"Would you like to keep dancing?," he asked. I looked back at the crowd of people, listened to the music for a bit, then answered, "Sure, why not?"

We grabbed hands again and walked back to the spot we were in. We started off with a placid sway, holding each other close, saying nothing. The music gradually intensified, the song playing a romantic, upbeat instrumental with equally romantic, upbeat vocals. I let the melody and rhythm and beat whisk the world around me away, leaving only this dance between Jack and I. The press of his hands against my waist and my hand. The warmth of his body when he hugs me close. The way both of us move together in a perfect coordination without even knowing what we were doing. It was wonderful. It really was like a dream but every time he pressed into me I would be reminded that this is really happening.

We kept going, moving around without a care in the world. Jack twirled me again, I came back in a confident bound and we held hands. He kept stepping back and I followed after him, moving my hips with a suave air. I started stepping back as Jack stepped forward, until he suddenly turned me around and held me against him. His arms wrapped around my body and I chuckled contently. I felt him lean his head against mine and I smiled. I turned my head and nuzzled my face next to his neck. He hugged me tighter and shifted his posture, nuzzling my neck now. It tickled and I laughed. He grabbed my hand and put me through another twirl. My dress billowed around as I spun and spun until Jack pulled my back once again but he dipped me. I was nearly breathless and held tight to his arms. After a few seconds, he slowly pulled me back to my feet and the both of us stood, holding each other. I smiled up at him and I hoped he was smiling behind that mask of his.

A sudden uproar of clapping and marvel rose and I looked around us to see that almost everyone in the masquerade was looking at us. They had watched us and loved our dance. I hadn't noticed anyone staring at us at all. My focus was only on Jack.

"I'm guessing they love your dancing," Jack remarked. I squeezed his hand and said, "Our dancing."

He squeezed back and said, "How about we make a finishing move?"

Jack surprised me as he twirled me, grabbed a onto my waist and then lifted me off of my feet. He hugged me close as I laughed with glee in his arms. I leaned my head against his as he did a slow turn. People clapped and whistled. Just when I thought Jack was going to put me down, instead he draped me over his shoulder and carried me away. Confusion crossed my face as he walked away and I could feel myself blush.

We left the masquerade party in an amused laughter and Jack carried me away to someplace else. People stared at us but I didn't care if we looked weird. I just wanted Jack to put me down so I can fix my dress...! I mean, I'm wearing pants but still...!

"Where are we going?," I asked him.

"Somewhere."

"That's not an answer."

"It's a response, which is an answer."

"Jack."

"You'll see in a little bit." He left it at that.

Two or three minutes later Jack carried me off of the cobblestone pathway. I got a little nervous until Sam spoke up after so long.

I hear an orchestra.

"Orchestra?!" I exclaimed, ripping away my mask and squirming enough to the point where I fell off of Jack's shoulder. He scrambled to catch me but I landed on my feet anyway and looked ahead. There was lights and the sounds of people talking among others and then, to my excitement, the sounds of instruments tuning. That was already enough to have me grabbing Jack's hand and racing off. We stumbled out of the trees and then I saw it.

A small amphitheater held an audience in its seats and on its stage stood a symphony orchestra. It wasn't a large group and I presumed it was local but it still had me on my toes. I love watching performances like these. I get to see string orchestra and band instruments come together to make something beautiful. Schools usually don't have a symphony group and orchestra and band tend to argue over which is better. But when both groups are combined, it's a thrilling experience to see and hear.

"Is this what you were going to show me?," I asked Jack, my voice sounding eager. He nodded and stood next to me, hands in his hoodie pocket. "It's called a Vivaldi concert," he replied, "When Ben mentioned an orchestra was playing, I knew you'd love it. I had to take you to see it. I'm not sure how long it is but I think you'll enjoy it nonetheless. Would you like to watch?"

A wide smile played on my lips and I said, "Is that even a question? Yes!" I tugged on his sleeve and lead him towards the amphitheater. One look at the stone seats and I knew I didn't want to sit on them. Instead, I pulled Jack and I to a secluded spot and we sat in the grass. The view of the stage was still great from here. And, so we waited.

I looked over at Jack and said, "Thank you again for this. I'll make sure to say my thanks to Ben, too."

"It's good to hear that you're enjoying this," he murmured.

"Of course. Besides, I like spending time with you. The both of us could just sit around somewhere and I'd still enjoy my time. But, I appreciate all of this."

Jack nodded and said, "I'm glad."

I stared at him for a moment, this urge to hug him and kiss him brewing inside of me. Before I could think about what to do, the orchestra stopped tuning and the entire amphitheater fell silent. "It's starting..!," I whisper-yelled and patted Jack's arm excitedly. I held onto his arm as I stared at the dimly lit stage. Once the lights grew brighter, that's when I heard it. The small sound of a violin playing a solo melody. It was a beautiful, mellifluous sound that echoed around the audience. The solo got softer and softer in volume until it ended in a whisper. That's when the rest of the orchestra came in with a strong, intense sound that took my breath away. Harmonized notes sent chills through my skin, crescendo and decrescendos left me eager and key changes took me by satisfied surprise. After a while I began to recognize the pieces as Vivaldi arrangements and finally understood why it was called a Vivaldi concert (duh). I could play some songs and as they echoed around me I thought about the notes for violin, the placement of my fingers. It was amazing.

Jack and I sat in the grass, listening to dozens of symphonies. People clapped when songs ended and, to my annoyance, they would clap when a movement would end but it's not actually the end of the song it's just the end of part of the song, they're parts, parts. I vented this to Jack and he just nodded and said, "That's annoying."

"Right?!"

Both of us shut up after that and kept listening to the performance. It was a wonderful orchestra that played beautifully, but sadly the concert ended. After eight long symphonies, I could tell the orchestra looked done, but they still looked proud. I clapped quietly in respect to their amazing performance. The audience cheered, filling the amphitheater with their noise. I turned to Jack during all of this and said, "That was awesome...!"

"I take it you enjoyed the concert," Jack murmured.

"I loved it!," I awed. I wrapped him into a hug and said, "I'm really happy you took me here. Thank you so much." Jack was stiff for a few seconds before easing into my embrace. He put his arm around my waist and squeezed me back. A fluttery feeling swelled in my stomach.

"There's one more place we need to go to," Jack said. He stood up then helped me to my feet. I followed him away from the amphitheater and back onto the cobblestone walkway. We walked together further into the park until we slowed to a stop near a detour pathway that lead to a the pond overlook. Jack turned toward the pathway and walked through it. I followed after him in the dark. This area wasn't lit up and I didn't think it was even supposed to be open. It got so dark that I stopped to re-calibrate where I was going. Something touched my hand and I spazzed out for a second before I heard Jack's voice say, "I'm right here. Just hold on." He squeezed my hand and helped me through the dark pathway.

After a minute or two, the overlook came into view with the help of some moonlight. I let go of Jack's hand and walked under the roof. The pond reflected light from the moon, it's surface smooth and undisturbed. It was a gorgeous sight.

Jack walked up next to me and leaned against the wooden railing. "Did you enjoy yourself tonight?," Jack asked me.

Staring out at the pond, I answered him, "Very much. This has been the most exciting time I've had that doesn't have to do with surviving enemies and getting kidnapped." At the mention of kidnapping, I remembered the bite mark that was still fading on my shoulder. But I knew it had been too gnarly to disappear completely. It would be a scar and I'd be constantly reminded about what I don't remember until I do. But, I stopped thinking about that because that would only ruin my joyful mood.

"Did you have fun?," I inquired to Jack. Throughout the night I've had fun and Jack had said he was happy I was enjoying everything but did he enjoy those things too? I felt a bit selfish for not having asked him earlier. We did the things that I like but he may not feel the same.

"Yeah, I had fun," he answered quietly, facing the pond as well.

"You don't sound like it," I commented.

"You know I'm mostly monotone," he said and I chuckled. It was quiet between us for a few moments but it didn't bother me as it used to before. Until Jack said, "There's something I need to talk about with you." His voice sounded lower than before and I knew something was wrong.

"Go ahead," I said, trying to hide the nervousness in my voice.

Jack paused a second. "Actually, it's something I have to show you."

Oh god, I thought.

Oh god.

Sam's voice didn't calm me this time but I kept my composure.

"Do you know the reason why I wear this mask?," Jack murmured.

I looked at him and said, "Because of your skin color...right?"

"Yes," he said, "but there's another reason..."

I didn't have an exact clue. There wasn't anything wrong with his face. The only thing I can recall that puzzled me was that he always covered his eyes.

"What is it you're trying to tell me, Jack?," I asked.

Another unbearable pause of silence dominated the moment. Then, Jack spoke up in a firm voice, "Promise me something?"

I gulped. "Anything."

He turned towards me. "Don't scream." My heart started pounding hard. What is it that he's doing?

Jack took his hands out of his pocket, making me flinch, and reached for his mask. In the moonlight I could barely make out his shaking hands. He untied the mask and began pulling it away from his face. He was going slow, he was unsure. I wanted to help him but I knew I should let him do this, whatever this is. Plus I was a bit shocked to see that Jack was...nervous. Maybe even scared.

He took longer than I expected, maybe longer than he expected. The moonlight faded as clouds rolled by, casting the pond, the overlook and us in darkness. I waited patiently for the moonlight to come back and, when it did, Jack had finally dropped his mask. I stood there, staring at him, squinting through the dark. My heart started racing and I thought I was seeing things. Rubbing my eyes, blinking them, squinting harder, nothing would change. I saw what I saw.

Jack had no eyes.

I opened my mouth but nothing came out. I promised him. Don't scream. Don't scream. The frustration of holding in my surprise and panic left my eyes stinging with tears. Jack hung his head slightly but I could still stare into the empty spaces where his eyes should be. Then, it all made sense. When he'd make me read to him. The patches over his eyes. His panic when his mask fell off. The vision I witnessed of him when I touched his tattoo a second time. They took away his eyes. I endured his blindness but only for a weekend. "You're...," I started, my voice unstable with fighting tears.

He scratched his head and said, "I...needed to tell you. I couldn't let you stay oblivious forever."

"F-For...how long have you been...?"

"Since I was nine."

Ten years. He's been eyeless for ten years.

I leaned against the wooden railing and stared out at the pond. If I looked at him, I feel like I'd start to cry. "This whole time," I started, "you couldn't see a thing? How do you do anything..?"

Jack stifled a forced breath which I think was supposed to be a chuckle. "It's amazing how the other senses enhance with loss of sight," he answered

I furrowed my brow. "You're calm...?"

"Yes. Why should I be upset? It's not something recent. I've been blind since I was a kid. It's...a part of me now."

"But...you're blind," I murmured.

"I'm blind. Not dead," he replied.

I finally looked straight at him, at his empty black pits where eyes could be. From the beginning, he has been blind and I never knew. How could I? He always hid it. But I feel I should have had a clue. The signs were there but I never put two and two together. I showed him so many things that I thought he'd find amazing when he couldn't see them at all. Then, something else even more profound hit me. He can never, ever see me.

All of the panicked emotion in me finally swelled over its barricade and tears streaked down my cheeks, dropping past my jaw. Jack tensed up and murmured, "Are you okay?"

I just cried harder, finally letting out an ugly, chocked sob. "Ao?" Jack called me. I just covered my face, using my jacket sleeves to wipe away the continuous tears.

Ao, you've gotta say something.

I shook my head and closed my eyes. Jack sighed and sagged his shoulders, saying, "Please don't cry. Ao.."

"This whole time," I whimpered, "I didn't know. I didn't know and I treated you as if you could see me and the rest of the world. I've been so cruel to you...!"

"Ao..."

"I've been a jerk to you without realizing..! How many times have I ever said something that upset you because you couldn't see? How pissed were you when I went blind only for a few days when you're stuck without eyes? How stupid have I been to you?" I started trembling and I threw my hands down. "All of our good moments, you should've seen them! I want you to see your friends, the world, me, yourself! You should have that! There's so many fantastic things I want to share with you! I want you to see everything! But...you can't...  It's not fair. It's not fair!!"

I kicked the wooden railing out of anger but it hurt me more than relieve me. Stifling a frustrated growl, I covered my face and rest against the railing. More tears spilled down my face and I still trembled. Now I'm really being stupid. I'm acting like a brat.

Lifting my head up, I murmured feebly, "I just...want you to be...happy.."

Crickets from the grass chirped loudly. The mood had changed drastically. I felt terrible.

There was a gentle tug on my arm and I looked up to see Jack standing right next to me. He never turned his face toward me and I knew it was because I would probably get upset if he did. I shouldn't have freaked out. Despite my behavior, he grabbed my arm and brought me into a hug. It was as awkward as I thought it'd be but he still held onto me.

"I am happy," he said. My heart ached from his words and more tears came. He squeezed me tighter and continued, "There's nothing that can bring my sight back. No amount of magic. Nothing. But that's fine. I've grown used to being blind. It's what I've dealt with for most of my life. Yes, at times I wish I could see you but I'm thankful enough that you even talk to me. I don't need sight to know that you're sad, or mad, or scared, or happy. I especially don't need sight to know that you're beautiful."

A blush spread through my face and I hugged onto him tighter. He kept going and said, "You're sweet, kind, patient, understanding. Someone who, in reality, shouldn't know me. But that doesn't mean I'm not grateful that you do. Ao, I'm sorry that I make you cry. It...sucks." He leaned his head against mine and whispered against my skin, "I'm going to be okay. Don't cry anymore. I realize how much it hurts to make you cry and it's always me. Just smile, like you always do."

Tears kept falling and my emotions were everywhere, but I nodded and hugged him tighter. He leaned his forehead against mine and this time I looked at him. There was barely any light but I still made out those dark spaces, his skin color, the tightness of his jaw. I never took my eyes away, not even as my vision blurred with tears.

Jack placed a hand against my face and this time I felt his skin. He must've removed his gloves when I was busy freaking out. I placed my hand on his and I felt faint bumps. It took a few more gentle presses to realize they were scars. Not a lot but still there. That's why he covers them up with bandages or gloves. I leaned my head into his palm and sniffled. Jack spoke up in a quiet volume and said, "Ao, I only ask of you one thing."

I gulped and murmured, "What?"

He played with my ear and said, "Don't let this change anything between us. Don't give me special treatment. And, please, please...don't abandon me."

Sniffling, I stared at him with wide eyes. Then, I shook my head and said, "You're such a dingus."

He frowned and I continued, "Of course not! Never! Why would you even think that?"

"Sorry."

"Hush," I said, a smile starting to form on my face. "I'll stay with you...for as long as you love the color blue."

Jack's frown faded and he said, "That's a really long time."

"Exactly," I murmured. I spotted the corner of his mouth lift slightly and that sent my heart fluttering. A thought came to mind and I told Jack, "Well, at least there's a bright side to this."

"What?"

"I can look like complete and utter trash in front of you and you wouldn't know," I said.

"Wow," he muttered.

"You can't say it isn't true!," I said.

"Well..."

I laughed, which felt much better than sobbing. All of a sudden I had a change of mood and smacked his shoulder.

"Ow."

"What's wrong with you, making me think you saw me naked in the shower?!"

"Oh, right. That happened."

"You're an ass," I grumbled.

"I thought I was a jerk.."

"Don't be smart...!" My tone was serious but I laughed anyway.

Ao?

I paused for a moment to listen to Sam.

I think this is a good time.

It didn't take much thinking to figure out what he meant. Clearing my throat and dropping my playful demeanor, I said, "There's something I have to tell you, too." Jack cocked an eyebrow and stayed silent. I took in a deep breath and began my explanation about Sam once again.

After I was finished talking, Jack stood there silently for a very long time. I waited patiently for him but I still felt nervous. Finally, Jack responded and told me, "That's a bit creepy."

I gaped at him and argued, "Says the man who sneaks into my bedroom at random...!"

"That's irrelevant."

"It's completely relevant," I protested. With a sigh, I added, "So I take it you're okay with this news?"

Jack shrugged. "It's fine with me. It makes sense. But I prohibit you from using him during combat training or any other sneaky things."

"Already set and done," I remarked.

He nodded. "Good. I also take it that I'll have to be wary of my behavior with you."

Oh definitely.

"Y-Yes," I murmured. "He, uhm, he can bite. And, he throws stuff when he's upset."

Damn right.

Jack cleared his throat and said, "Well then, don't let Sam hit me or anything."

I cocked my head to the side. "Why would he...?" Suddenly, Jack leaned over and placed a soft, longing kiss on my cheek. My blush went wild and that fluttery feeling in my stomach returned. When Jack pulled away, his kiss was still warm on my cheek, though I felt colder without him closer. Still, I smiled and restrained a giddy chuckle.

Oh my god, what was that? I expected better from the guy who ravaged your mouth. Let's try this. Push...!

A felt Sam give me a small shove to my back but it was enough to send me into Jack's arms, clawing onto his jacket. He caught me and held my waist with firm hands. I turned my gaze up at his face, admiring his jawline, his lips, his nose and everything. The faint scars across the bridge of his nose, his eyebrow, his jaw. Even the dark spaces where his eyes would've been if they hadn't been taken from him. I lifted my hands up to his face, hovering my fingers over his empty sockets. Then, I brushed my fingertips against his skin and through his auburn hair. This powerful feeling of desire and bravery took over and I got on my toes, pulled his face toward me and closed my eyes.

In the next moment, all I could feel was Jack's warm lips, his firm hold on my hips and the electrifying sensation all over my body. It was an intoxicating feeling that had me grabbing at Jack's hoodie so I wouldn't fall. He kissed back, moving his lips softly against mine. This kiss wasn't as intense as our first but it was equally overwhelming and lovely. Jack held me so close that I thought he wouldn't let me go and I enjoyed that idea. He brushed some hair behind my ear and the touch of his fingertips sent sweet shivers across my skin. We would part away only to kiss again and each time the fluttery sensation in my stomach grew greater and greater. Utter joy coursed through my entire being and I was practically drunk from it.

Finally, we both stopped but from the gentle push of Jack's nose against mine it seemed he still wanted another moment. I looked up at him and sighed happily. Jack cleared his throat and said, "Ao, can I ask you something?"

"Yeah," I murmured.

He was hesitant for a few seconds and finally spoke, "This seems dumb coming from me but, uh...will you..." He stopped and turned away for a moment. I waited for him to continue. He kept mumbling "uhm"s and "uh"s but I honestly found it charming. Finally, he growled with his own frustration and stammered, "Will you be my girlfriend, Ao?" His expression was hard but I could tell he was nervous.

Smiling, I reached up and gave him a quick kiss on the lips. "Yes," I beamed. Jack cocked an eyebrow and murmured, "Really..?" I giggled and brought him into a hug. Jack hugged back and gave me a soft kiss to the top of my head. I buried my face into his strong chest, feeling incredible happiness fill my heart to the brim. This is real. That's the most amazing part. It's real. Jack is my boyfriend. He wants to be with me..!

Jack patted my shoulder and said, "Let's get you back home." We pulled away from the hug and Jack put his mask and gloves back on. Afterwards, he grabbed my hand and lead me away from the overlook, back to the park, back to all of the lights and music and people. Even then he held on, all the way through the park, all the way back home. We still held hands and this time we never let go for a second.

...

Quietly, I unlocked the gate and opened it. Jack stood behind me and when I turned around he still stood on the other side. "You're not coming along," I asked him. He shook his head and I felt my heart drop.

I watched Jack reach up to his collar and remove the blue scarf, which I forgot I had given him. He handed it to me and said, "I almost forgot to return this to you." I stared at the silky accessory for a bit before grabbing it from him and stepping forward. I wrapped the scarf around his neck once again and told him, "Keep it."

"But--." I interrupted Jack by moving his mask and giving him a kiss on the cheek. Once I reeled away, he nodded and placed a hand on the scarf. I smiled.

"Goodnight, Jack," I told him as I placed my hand on the gate.

"Goodnight, Ao," he murmured. Reluctantly, I closed the gate and locked it. Before I turned away, I looked at Jack through the metal bars one last time and then turned to walk towards my house. By the time I made it to the front door and turned around, Jack was gone. With a sad yet satisfied sigh, I took off my boots and quietly opened the door. Inside, I locked it and tip-toed through the foyer and up the stairs. As I passed through the hallway, I heard the distinct sounds of my father's soft snoring. I was relieved to know my parents were asleep yet I still snuck into my room, closing the door for good tonight. Glancing over at my clock, I saw that it was 12:27am. I was out for nearly five hours? I felt this shiver run up my spine. This is what being a rebellious teen feels like...! Oh my god...it is definitely not for me.

Well, that was quite an exciting night.

"It was amazing," I sighed in awe.

I can already see your lovey-dovey, chipper attitude now.

"Is that such a bad thing? You don't have to let me date, ya know? You could always let me stay single with a ton of cats in a one bedroom apartment."

Yeah, but no one really enjoys that. Not even the cat ladies.

I chuckled and began to change out of my clothes.

I'm proud of you.

I furrowed my brow. "For what?"

You got the guts to sneak out for the first time. You didn't hide your fun. You took Jack's news well when anyone else would probably run away screaming. And that rant you made? It was touching. I'm proud that you told Jack about me. But most of all, I'm proud that you're in love.

I blushed wildly and remarked, "Don't tell me you're having one of those 'they grow up so fast' moments."

Maybe.

I chuckled and finally started to change into my pajamas. As I laid down on my bed, I said, "Thank you, Sam."

Anything for my Queen.

I lingered on that sentence for a few moments as it sounded oddly special to me. A few moments later it began to wear off and I curled up under my blue covers. As I lay in bed, my mind drifted away to Jack. To the dance we shared. The concert we attended. The feeling of his hand in mine. His lips against my skin. Our hugs. His voice. I thought back to the pond, to Jack's reveal. Those dark, empty pits where eyes would've been. I still thought it wasn't right that he has to deal with that. But, I told him I would accept it, as he accepts it now. It would be unfair of me to shun it or worry. Revealing that must've taken a lot of courage and trust, something that Jack has a hard time developing. I'm grateful for that, for our date, for everything I saw. I'm glad Jack has a friend like Ben, too, who was willing to help. At the thought of Ben, I knew he would be happy about tonight. He told me to take a chance with Jack and I did. Now...I'm pretty proud of myself, too.