Part 6 - Dr. Seuss Said It Well
Hey! This is Part 6 to Everybody Loves Henry! I really love this chapter, but forgive me if you think I went a little overboard on the love scenes.
CONTAINS PARTIAL NUDITY.
Told by Jessica
I felt the warmth of my bed covers over my head. My eyes fluttered open and a thin line of light shone through the covers. I pushed the covers back and slid out of bed. Then, I realized I was higher off the ground than I was last night.
I ran to the mirror, and I saw that I literally grew overnight! I'm about Henry's height now! After Mum and I go shopping today, I'll look kick-ass for my party. But first, I had to get rid of this ridiculous pink hair.
I got into the shower and scrubbed the color remover into my head until my scalp was burning.
As I was scrubbing the pink out of my hair, I thought of Dad. I always wondered what I did to set him off every time. Or even if I did anything at all. Mum kept telling me it was never my fault, but I don't really know. Did I not spend enough time with him? Maybe my clothes weren't acceptable to him. I never figured it out. But every night, he still came. For 5 months, every night he whipped the covers from atop my body and threw me to the floor. My cries of pain would only make him stronger, even make him laugh. He's called me every name possible, and I can't count the number of times he said he wanted me dead. I thank every spirit on earth that it's over. He won't be coming at night anymore. I can sleep through the night without wondering if my head will crash into the floor a thousand times. I won't have to hide bruises under my clothes, or cover scars with weak makeup that is almost unnoticeable. My life is just about trying to forget him and live the life I've been missing.
I hopped out of the shower and slipped into a simple shirt and pants that Mum lended me. The bruises and scratches are about gone now, and I cover up the rest with makeup so that they aren't visible. My hair was a mess, but I didn't worry about it because Mum said I'm getting a makeover today as well.
I slipped out of my room and went to the kitchen. Our new house was small, but it was cozy. It was only two bedrooms, enough for Mum and I.
There was also a room for our dog and cat (Julie and Lily). So I guess technically you could say it had 3 bedrooms. Our living room was small, with a couch big enough for two or three. There was a little front porch, very relaxing at night. I love to stand out there and stare at the stars, little twinkling nightlights to illuminate the sky.
I went into the kitchen to find my mom making a giant plate of pancakes. She looked happier than ever before, she looked free. She turned her head to look at me and said, "Good morning sweetheart! You look so much taller! Those stretches really paid off. I'm sure your friend Henry will think so too. Come, sit. Let's eat."
I groaned. I hated when she talked about me impressing Henry. I don't even know if he likes me like that. But, he's definitely been there for me. Ever since the day we met, around a month ago, I've always been able to talk to him. Even after my wardrobe change, and when everything went downhill, he called me every night, IMed me on the computer, and even asked my mom how I was. He would tell me, "Jessica, you know you can talk to me. About anything. Even if you just want to talk about nonsense to keep your mind busy, you can. I'm here. Whenever you want."
I walked into the dining room and plopped down into a chair. Mum came out with the plate of pancakes and set one down for me. As she got her plate and sat down, she said, "So, how did you sleep last night?"
I swallowed the lump of chewed pancakes in my mouth and mumbled, "Fine, I guess. Nightmares as usual." I'm sure I don't have to say what the nightmares were about. They were always about the same person, the same scene every time. My trembling body on the floor, and his hand coming down on me over and over, until blood was strewn throughout the room.
Mum sighed. "They'll go away eventually, dear."
"Hopefully." I replied. I stuffed another fork full of pancakes in my mouth. Boy, was I hungry!
"Excited about your party?" Mum said as she put her fork into her mouth. I nodded, being as I couldn't reply with my mouth full. I swallowed. "What time are we going shopping?" I said.
Mum tapped her fork on her plate and turned her eyes downward. "Hmm...." she mumbled. "Your party is at 6, so we can go shopping around 2:30. That way we have plenty of time to choose what clothes you want and get your makeover. Does that sound alright?"
I grinned and said, "Sounds great. Thanks again for letting me have this party." Mum chuckled. "You know I'd do anything for you, hun."
I giggled and got up from my seat. The plate clinked against the sink as I dropped it in and then headed towards the living room. As I reached the living room, a high shrill filled the house.
The phone was ringing rapidly. I went to the phone and picked up the receiver. "Hello?" I said.
"Jessica?" came a male voice. "It's Henry."
Heat came to my face. I managed a stifled, "Oh, hey."
"Can't wait for your party. I can't believe it's at KatSkies! That's so cool!"
I giggled. "Yea, it's pretty cool." I hesitated before asking, "So, you're coming?"
He laughed. I could hear his low, masculine voice echo through the phone. "Well duh." His voice softened, and he mumbled, "Wouldn't miss it for anything"
"What's that?" I said. I wanted to make sure I heard him right.
"Huh? Oh, nothing." He said quickly. "So, is there going to be bright pink hair?" He said as he chuckled.
My laugh joined his. "No, I scrubbed it all out. Just my normal brown hair." I sighed.
"Wonderful. I've always liked your hair the way it was." He said in a slow, low voice. Then a female voice piped up in the background. She said, "Henry! Clean your room if you want to go to Jessica's party!"
Henry managed a short chuckle and a *huff* before saying, "Well, looks like I have to go."
I smiled. "Alright. See you at my party. Bye, Henry"
"Oh wait!"
"Yea?"
"Happy Birthday."
"Haha. Thank you."
I hung the receiver back onto the hook and plopped down onto the couch. Mum came out from the dining room as I turned on the TV and said, "Who was that?" The TV flickered for a long moment before I answered. "Oh, just Henry." Mum smiled and chuckled. "Well, I'm going to take a shower and get ready. Then we'll go shopping."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"What about this sweater? You love blue." Mum said. She pointed to a blue sweater with pink and black hearts going down the front. I fingered it for a moment, and said, "I like it. I should try it on though. Let's pick out some shorts, too"
I picked a pair of simple blue jeans and hustled to the changing booth. Mum's T-shirt and pants fell to the floor as I changed into the sweater and jeans. I pushed back the curtain of the booth and walked to the mirror. Before I even got to the mirror, Mum yelled "Oh you look so adorable!" I took a look in the mirror.
The sweater looked great! But I'm not wearing it to my party. I have to wear something more....elegant I guess you could say. I can still buy the sweater. I need a whole new wardrobe anyways.
*Around an Hour and a half later...*
Mum piled the clothes onto the counter and waited for the cashier to ring them all up. I stared at the mound of clothes, which held my entire wardrobe. My head raced around the party that's starting in about 2 hours. I picked out an amazing dress to wear. It's a strapless light pink dress with silver flowers around the top and subtle ruffles down the bottom. I can just imagine walking into that club and all eyes lay upon me and my kick-ass dress. Then we dance, we eat, and the party ends happily ever after!
The cab pulled in front of the salon. I jumped out of the car and patiently waited for Mum to get out.
We walked into the salon to be greeted by a cheery woman wearing way too much makeup. "Good afternoon! What can I do for you?"
"We have an appointment for 4:30." Mum replied just as cheerfully to the woman.
The woman's smile widened, as if she recognized us. "Lovely. Last name?"
"Coons" I piped in. I grinned at Mum. She grinned back.
"You're appointment isn't scheduled for another 15 minutes, but business is slow today, so Ms. Griffin will take you early."
Mum smiled and thanked the lady. Then we walked past an arch into the simple salon. The floor was tiled with a creamy square tile, and the walls were a light pink. There were mirrors and salon chairs along the walls of the salon, and a magazine rack right next to the arch. The salon DID look very empty, with a few people strewn throughout.
A dark-haired woman came up to greet us. She looked sort of Asian, with her super dark black hair and the features of her face. "Hello!" she exclaimed. "I'm Helena Griffin. And who do we have here?"
Mum grinned again and gestured towards me. "My daughter is here for a makeover."
"Excellent." Helena said cheerfully.
She lead me to a black salon chair and I plopped down into it. She placed her foot on the lever that boosted the chair up and began to pump on it. Once I was high enough to her satisfaction, she began to talk. "Is there anything specific you would like me to do?" she said gently.
"Um...don't make me look horrible?" She laughed. "Other than that, surprise me." I said.
And she set to work.
*45 minutes later....*
"Alright dear, I believed I'm finished. Go take a look in the mirror." I heard Helena say. I hesitantly got up from my seat, and went to one of the mirrors hung on the wall.
I didn't recognize the girl staring back at me. But she sure did look gorgeous! Her auburn hair was done up into an elegant sort of do, and there was a tiara perched on the top. Her eyes really stood out, with the dark eyeliner and pink eyeshadow, to match her party dress. Her lips were also pink, but a lighter pink than her eyeshadow.
"Is that....me?" I whispered.
"Of course, dear. You look wonderful." Helena stated.
My hand reached up to graze the tiara on top of my hair. "A tiara?" I questioned.
"Yes. Because tonight, you are royalty." Mum said.
I smiled. The girl in the mirror's smile made her look even more gorgeous. I still couldn't believe that was me.
I turned to face Helena and threw my arms around her. "Thank you! I love it!" Helena laughed and returned my embrace. "You're welcome, dear. From what your mother told me, you deserve it."
I broke the embrace and turned to Mum. Then I hugged her too. "I love you, Mum." She didn't say anything for a moment, but then replied, "I love you too, Jessica."
Mum and Helena walked to the front foyer as I stared at myself in the mirror for a couple more minutes. My fingers brushed my cheek. The girl in the mirror did the same. I tugged at a small piece of hair, and so did the girl. I did this for a couple more minutes, just to assure myself that the girl in the mirror was actually me. As I started for the foyer, I saw a shadow whip past the window from the corner of my eye. I turned around just in time to see the end of the shadow disappear behind the wall outside. I stared at the window to see if the shadow was a trick of the eye, and it never came back, so I assumed it was nothing.
Mum and Helena were chatting when I emerged into the foyer. "Call me anytime, Kasey. We could both use a friend." I heard Helena say.
She hugged Mum and waved to me, then walked through a door in the foyer which I guessed to be either her office or the employee lounge. Mum smiled at the woman behind the counter and said, "Have a nice day!" We walked back out to the cab.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The cab parked in front of KatSkies and the driver shut off the engine.
"Are you ready for this?" Mum said without turning to look at me. I let out a loud breath and braced myself. "Yea."
We got out of the cab. The music was blasting from inside the club. I could hear the music from 3 or 4 blocks away. We booked the entire club for the night, just for my party. Everyone was already here, waiting for the birthday girl to arrive. Mum walked from the driver's side and said "I'll take the back door so you can make a big entrance." I giggled and nodded, so she headed for the back. It was still light outside, but the sky was starting to dim. It always stayed lighter for so much longer in the summer. I gazed up at the sky. It was starting to turn pink, just like my dress. Was everything pink today? I mused to myself. I took a step towards the front door of KatSkies. And then another. At last I was in front of the door, so my hand rested on the knob and turned slowly.
The door flew open to reveal KatSkies, just as I imagined it. The DJ booth, the bar, and the awesome dance floor. The music got lower, and I could feel eyes staring at me.
A light flashed in my eyes, and I noticed it was a spotlight. Then a man's voice came from the speakers. "Here comes our birthday girl Jessica!" There was applauding and whooping. I grinned and walked further into the club.
I hugged my friends as they babbled on about what a great party it was.
"Come, dance!" said my best friend Amaya. I smiled and accepted.
We were jumping up and down to a fast song, and dancing like no one was watching, even though a lot of people were. The fast song suddenly stopped, and another one started.
Amaya and I walked over to the bar and ordered two virgin Pina Coladas. "This party is awesome!" she exclaimed over the music.
"I know! KatSkies is great!" I yelled back.
"So," she said as the bartender gave us our drinks. "Seen any guys that you--"
"Jessica?" came a voice. I turned.
It was Henry.
I smiled, and I felt the heat come to my face again. "Hey, Henry." Amaya giggled and I nudged her hard with my elbow. "So, how are you liking the party?" I said.
The fast song that was playing stopped, and a slow song came on. "Alright, let's slow down." said the DJ. "Grab a partner."
Henry smiled at me and scratched his head. "The party is great." he said. He took a step closer to me. "But it'd be even better with a dance." His hand extended for mine, and I turned to look at Amaya. She ushered me with a gesture of her hand, and then pushed me off the stool. I stumbled for a moment, but regained balance and headed for the dance floor with Henry.
He placed a hand on my waist as I put one on his shoulder, and took my other hand in his.
"Um, I'm not that great of a dancer." I said sheepishly.
Henry just smiled and replied. "That's ok. I'm not either. We can be horrible dancers together."
I giggled and turned my eyes to the floor. There was a long moment of silence before Henry finally said, "You look amazing tonight. That dress really suits you."
I brought my head up and searched his face. He actually looked....nervous. Or maybe anxious. I couldn't tell. Then I remembered that he had just complimented me, and was probably waiting for a response. "Uh, thanks. You look really good too." He smiled warmly. Damn that smile! I started to melt. His smile reminded me of honey; smooth, sweet, and everything in between.
As I was admiring his face, and his amazing smile, he slipped his hand from mine and placed it on the other side of my hip, pulling me closer to him. I put my other hand on his shoulder, and there was another long silence. We scuffled along the dance floor with our feet, and just sort of stared at each other.
At one point I rested my head on his shoulder, and he just sighed happily.
The song ended, and Henry pulled away reluctantly. He held my hands for a moment longer before saying, "Can we go outside?" I smiled and replied, "Sure. But first, let me go find Amaya. I have to talk to her." He nodded and then walked away.
I searched the crowd for Amaya. She was standing by a wall talking to another girl. She had long dirty blond hair and her back was turned to me. I walked over to them and said, "Hey, Amaya."
Amaya looked at me and said, "Hey!"
Then she gestured toward the girl she was talking to. "This is Ashlyn. She goes to our school." Ashlyn turned to me and smiled. "Hey. I heard you were having a party, and that pretty much anyone was invited, if they knew where it was. I thought I would stop by and check it out. It's great!"
I looked Ashlyn over. She was pretty, with her dirty blond hair and green eyes. Her nose was slightly larger than normal, but it was hardly noticeable unless you look really hard. She wasn't wearing much makeup, except for a little bit of eyeliner. She had on a black T-shirt with a logo on it, and simple blue jeans with some rips in it.
"Thanks! I'm glad you like it." I said.
"So, who's that guy you were dancing with?" Ashlyn said.
Amaya giggled as I said, "Oh, that was Henry." I smiled at the thought of him and sighed.
"Well, he's pretty damn cute." Ashlyn said, eyeing Henry standing by the door to the outside of Katskies.
I felt a little jealous of that comment, so I said, "Glad to see you have great taste in guys. But, he's mine." Ashlyn turned her gaze from Henry back to me.
She cocked her head and smiled. A smile that looked too fake. Then she walked away.
Amaya stepped in front of me and said "Now what was THAT all about?"
I twisted my face in confusion. "What was what?"
"I dunno. Never mind. Well, she's really cool. We should get to know her more, I think we could all be really good friends." Amaya turned her head and caught sight of Henry. "Until then, go get what you came for."
She nudged my side and I waved to her as I started towards Henry. He had his fingers twined with the belt loops in his jeans, and he was leaning against the wall next to back door. He grinned as he noticed me walking towards him. He walked outside and opened the door for me.
I then realized that the club has a garden in the back. I looked around the small garden, trying to adjust my eyes to the new darkness that had just emerged from the sky. The edges of the garden were marked by lines of flowers. Benches also lined the edge of the garden, with a simple fountain in the middle spurting water into the air and catching it again. It's the kind of garden I would see in my dreams (the ones that weren't nightmares), sitting on one of the benches, staring up at the stars next to Henry, who was holding me close.
"Beautiful." I whispered.
Henry stood next to me and slipped his hand into mine. "Not as much as you." He whispered back. He turned to me, and I turned to him too. Our faces were so close, if he leaned in the slightest, our lips would collide. My heart was pounding so unbelievably loud and fast that I was surprised Henry couldn't hear it.
His hands slid down to my waist, and I rested my hands on his chest. I could feel the heat coming from his body as he held me close. He still looked nervous- like a scared little boy. I exhaled slowly as I whispered. "Henry..."
He didn't let me say anything after that. He wrapped his arms around me and put his lips firmly on mine. They were warm, comforting. My arms wrapped around his shoulders as we stood there and....kissed. It was a simple kiss- out lips pressed together, our mouths closed. But it was my first and best kiss possible, because it was with him.
I pulled away from him after what seemed like a lifetime. My hands were trembling, and my heart was pounding louder than ever before. Henry didn't say anything. He didn't have to.
We walked to one of the benches and sat next to each other. I placed my head on his shoulder, and his hand came around me to rest on my neck. We sat there and stared at the stars. Just like my dreams. Except better.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I was smiling inside and out the whole ride home. Mum was chattering about how the policeman that came to our house yesterday was at the party and they talked all night. I wasn't listening. I had just had the best night of my entire life, all I could think about now was Henry. Very little words were exchanged after we kissed. Nothing needed to be said for us. We stared at the stars for the rest of the party, hardly hearing the blasting music from inside the club. I was disappointed that the night was over, but so unbearably happy that it happened.
"Jessica, are you listening?" Mum asked sternly.
I snapped back to the present. "Wha? Oh, yeah. That's great Mum." I said.
Mum didn't take that answer. But then she turned to me and grinned. "I saw you and Henry head out to the garden. What happened out there?"
I knew that question was coming. Mum didn't need to know what happened out there, but it was making me so bubbly I answered anyway. "Everything."
"Oh? And what is everything?" She questioned.
I leaned my head back on the car seat. "We kissed." I said dreamily. Mum squealed.
"My baby's first kiss! And with Henry!" Mum exclaimed. "Henry's such a nice boy. I'm glad you two met each other."
"Yea." I mumbled. "Me too."
The cab pulled in front of our home, and I jumped out, giddy and bubbly.
Mum opened the front door just as our cat, Julie, came to greet us.
I picked Julie up and hugged her hard, swinging her back and forth. She meowed, and rubbed her head against my ear. Julie jumped to the floor.
Mum came behind me and said, "Better get to sleep, hun. You've had a long night. I'm going to bed too."
I sighed happily and went to my bedroom. It looked so much brighter tonight. My walls sparkled and danced along with my mind.
I leaned against the wall and rested my head on it. I stood there a few more moments before reaching into my dresser and pulling out my pajamas. I took the tiara out of my hair and let my hair out of its hold.
It fell around my shoulders, longer than it was this morning. Did Helena put extensions in? I thought. It didn't matter. I liked them. At this moment, I would have liked anything. Even the nasty Brussels Sprout casserole that Mum tried to force me to eat one time.
I slipped into my pajamas and plopped into bed. It took me a while to fall asleep, reality was finally better than my dreams.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Jessica."
I groaned. Who was calling my name in the middle of the freaking night? It could just be my ears playing tricks. I pulled the covers over my head more.
"Jessica!" came the voice again. It was definitely not my mother's voice. It was male.
I started trembling. My fingers slowly pushed back the covers, and a man was sitting on the floor in the middle of my bedroom. It was too dark to see who it was.
"Who....who are you?"
"Have you forgotten already, dear Jessica?" he said. I could hear the devious smile in his voice.
No. It couldn't be. It's impossible for it to be him. There is no way on this Earth that the man sitting in my bedroom is him.
"You didn't think I would miss my own daughter's birthday, did you?"
To be continued.....
*Author's Note*
Sorry about the one large picture in here! I re-sized it twice, but it kept going back to its large size. =)
CONTAINS PARTIAL NUDITY.
Told by Jessica
I felt the warmth of my bed covers over my head. My eyes fluttered open and a thin line of light shone through the covers. I pushed the covers back and slid out of bed. Then, I realized I was higher off the ground than I was last night.
I ran to the mirror, and I saw that I literally grew overnight! I'm about Henry's height now! After Mum and I go shopping today, I'll look kick-ass for my party. But first, I had to get rid of this ridiculous pink hair.
I got into the shower and scrubbed the color remover into my head until my scalp was burning.
As I was scrubbing the pink out of my hair, I thought of Dad. I always wondered what I did to set him off every time. Or even if I did anything at all. Mum kept telling me it was never my fault, but I don't really know. Did I not spend enough time with him? Maybe my clothes weren't acceptable to him. I never figured it out. But every night, he still came. For 5 months, every night he whipped the covers from atop my body and threw me to the floor. My cries of pain would only make him stronger, even make him laugh. He's called me every name possible, and I can't count the number of times he said he wanted me dead. I thank every spirit on earth that it's over. He won't be coming at night anymore. I can sleep through the night without wondering if my head will crash into the floor a thousand times. I won't have to hide bruises under my clothes, or cover scars with weak makeup that is almost unnoticeable. My life is just about trying to forget him and live the life I've been missing.
I hopped out of the shower and slipped into a simple shirt and pants that Mum lended me. The bruises and scratches are about gone now, and I cover up the rest with makeup so that they aren't visible. My hair was a mess, but I didn't worry about it because Mum said I'm getting a makeover today as well.
I slipped out of my room and went to the kitchen. Our new house was small, but it was cozy. It was only two bedrooms, enough for Mum and I.
There was also a room for our dog and cat (Julie and Lily). So I guess technically you could say it had 3 bedrooms. Our living room was small, with a couch big enough for two or three. There was a little front porch, very relaxing at night. I love to stand out there and stare at the stars, little twinkling nightlights to illuminate the sky.
I went into the kitchen to find my mom making a giant plate of pancakes. She looked happier than ever before, she looked free. She turned her head to look at me and said, "Good morning sweetheart! You look so much taller! Those stretches really paid off. I'm sure your friend Henry will think so too. Come, sit. Let's eat."
I groaned. I hated when she talked about me impressing Henry. I don't even know if he likes me like that. But, he's definitely been there for me. Ever since the day we met, around a month ago, I've always been able to talk to him. Even after my wardrobe change, and when everything went downhill, he called me every night, IMed me on the computer, and even asked my mom how I was. He would tell me, "Jessica, you know you can talk to me. About anything. Even if you just want to talk about nonsense to keep your mind busy, you can. I'm here. Whenever you want."
I walked into the dining room and plopped down into a chair. Mum came out with the plate of pancakes and set one down for me. As she got her plate and sat down, she said, "So, how did you sleep last night?"
I swallowed the lump of chewed pancakes in my mouth and mumbled, "Fine, I guess. Nightmares as usual." I'm sure I don't have to say what the nightmares were about. They were always about the same person, the same scene every time. My trembling body on the floor, and his hand coming down on me over and over, until blood was strewn throughout the room.
Mum sighed. "They'll go away eventually, dear."
"Hopefully." I replied. I stuffed another fork full of pancakes in my mouth. Boy, was I hungry!
"Excited about your party?" Mum said as she put her fork into her mouth. I nodded, being as I couldn't reply with my mouth full. I swallowed. "What time are we going shopping?" I said.
Mum tapped her fork on her plate and turned her eyes downward. "Hmm...." she mumbled. "Your party is at 6, so we can go shopping around 2:30. That way we have plenty of time to choose what clothes you want and get your makeover. Does that sound alright?"
I grinned and said, "Sounds great. Thanks again for letting me have this party." Mum chuckled. "You know I'd do anything for you, hun."
I giggled and got up from my seat. The plate clinked against the sink as I dropped it in and then headed towards the living room. As I reached the living room, a high shrill filled the house.
The phone was ringing rapidly. I went to the phone and picked up the receiver. "Hello?" I said.
"Jessica?" came a male voice. "It's Henry."
Heat came to my face. I managed a stifled, "Oh, hey."
"Can't wait for your party. I can't believe it's at KatSkies! That's so cool!"
I giggled. "Yea, it's pretty cool." I hesitated before asking, "So, you're coming?"
He laughed. I could hear his low, masculine voice echo through the phone. "Well duh." His voice softened, and he mumbled, "Wouldn't miss it for anything"
"What's that?" I said. I wanted to make sure I heard him right.
"Huh? Oh, nothing." He said quickly. "So, is there going to be bright pink hair?" He said as he chuckled.
My laugh joined his. "No, I scrubbed it all out. Just my normal brown hair." I sighed.
"Wonderful. I've always liked your hair the way it was." He said in a slow, low voice. Then a female voice piped up in the background. She said, "Henry! Clean your room if you want to go to Jessica's party!"
Henry managed a short chuckle and a *huff* before saying, "Well, looks like I have to go."
I smiled. "Alright. See you at my party. Bye, Henry"
"Oh wait!"
"Yea?"
"Happy Birthday."
"Haha. Thank you."
I hung the receiver back onto the hook and plopped down onto the couch. Mum came out from the dining room as I turned on the TV and said, "Who was that?" The TV flickered for a long moment before I answered. "Oh, just Henry." Mum smiled and chuckled. "Well, I'm going to take a shower and get ready. Then we'll go shopping."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"What about this sweater? You love blue." Mum said. She pointed to a blue sweater with pink and black hearts going down the front. I fingered it for a moment, and said, "I like it. I should try it on though. Let's pick out some shorts, too"
I picked a pair of simple blue jeans and hustled to the changing booth. Mum's T-shirt and pants fell to the floor as I changed into the sweater and jeans. I pushed back the curtain of the booth and walked to the mirror. Before I even got to the mirror, Mum yelled "Oh you look so adorable!" I took a look in the mirror.
The sweater looked great! But I'm not wearing it to my party. I have to wear something more....elegant I guess you could say. I can still buy the sweater. I need a whole new wardrobe anyways.
*Around an Hour and a half later...*
Mum piled the clothes onto the counter and waited for the cashier to ring them all up. I stared at the mound of clothes, which held my entire wardrobe. My head raced around the party that's starting in about 2 hours. I picked out an amazing dress to wear. It's a strapless light pink dress with silver flowers around the top and subtle ruffles down the bottom. I can just imagine walking into that club and all eyes lay upon me and my kick-ass dress. Then we dance, we eat, and the party ends happily ever after!
The cab pulled in front of the salon. I jumped out of the car and patiently waited for Mum to get out.
We walked into the salon to be greeted by a cheery woman wearing way too much makeup. "Good afternoon! What can I do for you?"
"We have an appointment for 4:30." Mum replied just as cheerfully to the woman.
The woman's smile widened, as if she recognized us. "Lovely. Last name?"
"Coons" I piped in. I grinned at Mum. She grinned back.
"You're appointment isn't scheduled for another 15 minutes, but business is slow today, so Ms. Griffin will take you early."
Mum smiled and thanked the lady. Then we walked past an arch into the simple salon. The floor was tiled with a creamy square tile, and the walls were a light pink. There were mirrors and salon chairs along the walls of the salon, and a magazine rack right next to the arch. The salon DID look very empty, with a few people strewn throughout.
A dark-haired woman came up to greet us. She looked sort of Asian, with her super dark black hair and the features of her face. "Hello!" she exclaimed. "I'm Helena Griffin. And who do we have here?"
Mum grinned again and gestured towards me. "My daughter is here for a makeover."
"Excellent." Helena said cheerfully.
She lead me to a black salon chair and I plopped down into it. She placed her foot on the lever that boosted the chair up and began to pump on it. Once I was high enough to her satisfaction, she began to talk. "Is there anything specific you would like me to do?" she said gently.
"Um...don't make me look horrible?" She laughed. "Other than that, surprise me." I said.
And she set to work.
*45 minutes later....*
"Alright dear, I believed I'm finished. Go take a look in the mirror." I heard Helena say. I hesitantly got up from my seat, and went to one of the mirrors hung on the wall.
I didn't recognize the girl staring back at me. But she sure did look gorgeous! Her auburn hair was done up into an elegant sort of do, and there was a tiara perched on the top. Her eyes really stood out, with the dark eyeliner and pink eyeshadow, to match her party dress. Her lips were also pink, but a lighter pink than her eyeshadow.
"Is that....me?" I whispered.
"Of course, dear. You look wonderful." Helena stated.
My hand reached up to graze the tiara on top of my hair. "A tiara?" I questioned.
"Yes. Because tonight, you are royalty." Mum said.
I smiled. The girl in the mirror's smile made her look even more gorgeous. I still couldn't believe that was me.
I turned to face Helena and threw my arms around her. "Thank you! I love it!" Helena laughed and returned my embrace. "You're welcome, dear. From what your mother told me, you deserve it."
I broke the embrace and turned to Mum. Then I hugged her too. "I love you, Mum." She didn't say anything for a moment, but then replied, "I love you too, Jessica."
Mum and Helena walked to the front foyer as I stared at myself in the mirror for a couple more minutes. My fingers brushed my cheek. The girl in the mirror did the same. I tugged at a small piece of hair, and so did the girl. I did this for a couple more minutes, just to assure myself that the girl in the mirror was actually me. As I started for the foyer, I saw a shadow whip past the window from the corner of my eye. I turned around just in time to see the end of the shadow disappear behind the wall outside. I stared at the window to see if the shadow was a trick of the eye, and it never came back, so I assumed it was nothing.
Mum and Helena were chatting when I emerged into the foyer. "Call me anytime, Kasey. We could both use a friend." I heard Helena say.
She hugged Mum and waved to me, then walked through a door in the foyer which I guessed to be either her office or the employee lounge. Mum smiled at the woman behind the counter and said, "Have a nice day!" We walked back out to the cab.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The cab parked in front of KatSkies and the driver shut off the engine.
"Are you ready for this?" Mum said without turning to look at me. I let out a loud breath and braced myself. "Yea."
We got out of the cab. The music was blasting from inside the club. I could hear the music from 3 or 4 blocks away. We booked the entire club for the night, just for my party. Everyone was already here, waiting for the birthday girl to arrive. Mum walked from the driver's side and said "I'll take the back door so you can make a big entrance." I giggled and nodded, so she headed for the back. It was still light outside, but the sky was starting to dim. It always stayed lighter for so much longer in the summer. I gazed up at the sky. It was starting to turn pink, just like my dress. Was everything pink today? I mused to myself. I took a step towards the front door of KatSkies. And then another. At last I was in front of the door, so my hand rested on the knob and turned slowly.
The door flew open to reveal KatSkies, just as I imagined it. The DJ booth, the bar, and the awesome dance floor. The music got lower, and I could feel eyes staring at me.
A light flashed in my eyes, and I noticed it was a spotlight. Then a man's voice came from the speakers. "Here comes our birthday girl Jessica!" There was applauding and whooping. I grinned and walked further into the club.
I hugged my friends as they babbled on about what a great party it was.
"Come, dance!" said my best friend Amaya. I smiled and accepted.
We were jumping up and down to a fast song, and dancing like no one was watching, even though a lot of people were. The fast song suddenly stopped, and another one started.
Amaya and I walked over to the bar and ordered two virgin Pina Coladas. "This party is awesome!" she exclaimed over the music.
"I know! KatSkies is great!" I yelled back.
"So," she said as the bartender gave us our drinks. "Seen any guys that you--"
"Jessica?" came a voice. I turned.
It was Henry.
I smiled, and I felt the heat come to my face again. "Hey, Henry." Amaya giggled and I nudged her hard with my elbow. "So, how are you liking the party?" I said.
The fast song that was playing stopped, and a slow song came on. "Alright, let's slow down." said the DJ. "Grab a partner."
Henry smiled at me and scratched his head. "The party is great." he said. He took a step closer to me. "But it'd be even better with a dance." His hand extended for mine, and I turned to look at Amaya. She ushered me with a gesture of her hand, and then pushed me off the stool. I stumbled for a moment, but regained balance and headed for the dance floor with Henry.
He placed a hand on my waist as I put one on his shoulder, and took my other hand in his.
"Um, I'm not that great of a dancer." I said sheepishly.
Henry just smiled and replied. "That's ok. I'm not either. We can be horrible dancers together."
I giggled and turned my eyes to the floor. There was a long moment of silence before Henry finally said, "You look amazing tonight. That dress really suits you."
I brought my head up and searched his face. He actually looked....nervous. Or maybe anxious. I couldn't tell. Then I remembered that he had just complimented me, and was probably waiting for a response. "Uh, thanks. You look really good too." He smiled warmly. Damn that smile! I started to melt. His smile reminded me of honey; smooth, sweet, and everything in between.
As I was admiring his face, and his amazing smile, he slipped his hand from mine and placed it on the other side of my hip, pulling me closer to him. I put my other hand on his shoulder, and there was another long silence. We scuffled along the dance floor with our feet, and just sort of stared at each other.
At one point I rested my head on his shoulder, and he just sighed happily.
The song ended, and Henry pulled away reluctantly. He held my hands for a moment longer before saying, "Can we go outside?" I smiled and replied, "Sure. But first, let me go find Amaya. I have to talk to her." He nodded and then walked away.
I searched the crowd for Amaya. She was standing by a wall talking to another girl. She had long dirty blond hair and her back was turned to me. I walked over to them and said, "Hey, Amaya."
Amaya looked at me and said, "Hey!"
Then she gestured toward the girl she was talking to. "This is Ashlyn. She goes to our school." Ashlyn turned to me and smiled. "Hey. I heard you were having a party, and that pretty much anyone was invited, if they knew where it was. I thought I would stop by and check it out. It's great!"
I looked Ashlyn over. She was pretty, with her dirty blond hair and green eyes. Her nose was slightly larger than normal, but it was hardly noticeable unless you look really hard. She wasn't wearing much makeup, except for a little bit of eyeliner. She had on a black T-shirt with a logo on it, and simple blue jeans with some rips in it.
"Thanks! I'm glad you like it." I said.
"So, who's that guy you were dancing with?" Ashlyn said.
Amaya giggled as I said, "Oh, that was Henry." I smiled at the thought of him and sighed.
"Well, he's pretty damn cute." Ashlyn said, eyeing Henry standing by the door to the outside of Katskies.
I felt a little jealous of that comment, so I said, "Glad to see you have great taste in guys. But, he's mine." Ashlyn turned her gaze from Henry back to me.
She cocked her head and smiled. A smile that looked too fake. Then she walked away.
Amaya stepped in front of me and said "Now what was THAT all about?"
I twisted my face in confusion. "What was what?"
"I dunno. Never mind. Well, she's really cool. We should get to know her more, I think we could all be really good friends." Amaya turned her head and caught sight of Henry. "Until then, go get what you came for."
She nudged my side and I waved to her as I started towards Henry. He had his fingers twined with the belt loops in his jeans, and he was leaning against the wall next to back door. He grinned as he noticed me walking towards him. He walked outside and opened the door for me.
I then realized that the club has a garden in the back. I looked around the small garden, trying to adjust my eyes to the new darkness that had just emerged from the sky. The edges of the garden were marked by lines of flowers. Benches also lined the edge of the garden, with a simple fountain in the middle spurting water into the air and catching it again. It's the kind of garden I would see in my dreams (the ones that weren't nightmares), sitting on one of the benches, staring up at the stars next to Henry, who was holding me close.
"Beautiful." I whispered.
Henry stood next to me and slipped his hand into mine. "Not as much as you." He whispered back. He turned to me, and I turned to him too. Our faces were so close, if he leaned in the slightest, our lips would collide. My heart was pounding so unbelievably loud and fast that I was surprised Henry couldn't hear it.
His hands slid down to my waist, and I rested my hands on his chest. I could feel the heat coming from his body as he held me close. He still looked nervous- like a scared little boy. I exhaled slowly as I whispered. "Henry..."
He didn't let me say anything after that. He wrapped his arms around me and put his lips firmly on mine. They were warm, comforting. My arms wrapped around his shoulders as we stood there and....kissed. It was a simple kiss- out lips pressed together, our mouths closed. But it was my first and best kiss possible, because it was with him.
I pulled away from him after what seemed like a lifetime. My hands were trembling, and my heart was pounding louder than ever before. Henry didn't say anything. He didn't have to.
We walked to one of the benches and sat next to each other. I placed my head on his shoulder, and his hand came around me to rest on my neck. We sat there and stared at the stars. Just like my dreams. Except better.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I was smiling inside and out the whole ride home. Mum was chattering about how the policeman that came to our house yesterday was at the party and they talked all night. I wasn't listening. I had just had the best night of my entire life, all I could think about now was Henry. Very little words were exchanged after we kissed. Nothing needed to be said for us. We stared at the stars for the rest of the party, hardly hearing the blasting music from inside the club. I was disappointed that the night was over, but so unbearably happy that it happened.
"Jessica, are you listening?" Mum asked sternly.
I snapped back to the present. "Wha? Oh, yeah. That's great Mum." I said.
Mum didn't take that answer. But then she turned to me and grinned. "I saw you and Henry head out to the garden. What happened out there?"
I knew that question was coming. Mum didn't need to know what happened out there, but it was making me so bubbly I answered anyway. "Everything."
"Oh? And what is everything?" She questioned.
I leaned my head back on the car seat. "We kissed." I said dreamily. Mum squealed.
"My baby's first kiss! And with Henry!" Mum exclaimed. "Henry's such a nice boy. I'm glad you two met each other."
"Yea." I mumbled. "Me too."
The cab pulled in front of our home, and I jumped out, giddy and bubbly.
Mum opened the front door just as our cat, Julie, came to greet us.
I picked Julie up and hugged her hard, swinging her back and forth. She meowed, and rubbed her head against my ear. Julie jumped to the floor.
Mum came behind me and said, "Better get to sleep, hun. You've had a long night. I'm going to bed too."
I sighed happily and went to my bedroom. It looked so much brighter tonight. My walls sparkled and danced along with my mind.
I leaned against the wall and rested my head on it. I stood there a few more moments before reaching into my dresser and pulling out my pajamas. I took the tiara out of my hair and let my hair out of its hold.
It fell around my shoulders, longer than it was this morning. Did Helena put extensions in? I thought. It didn't matter. I liked them. At this moment, I would have liked anything. Even the nasty Brussels Sprout casserole that Mum tried to force me to eat one time.
I slipped into my pajamas and plopped into bed. It took me a while to fall asleep, reality was finally better than my dreams.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Jessica."
I groaned. Who was calling my name in the middle of the freaking night? It could just be my ears playing tricks. I pulled the covers over my head more.
"Jessica!" came the voice again. It was definitely not my mother's voice. It was male.
I started trembling. My fingers slowly pushed back the covers, and a man was sitting on the floor in the middle of my bedroom. It was too dark to see who it was.
"Who....who are you?"
"Have you forgotten already, dear Jessica?" he said. I could hear the devious smile in his voice.
No. It couldn't be. It's impossible for it to be him. There is no way on this Earth that the man sitting in my bedroom is him.
"You didn't think I would miss my own daughter's birthday, did you?"
To be continued.....
*Author's Note*
Sorry about the one large picture in here! I re-sized it twice, but it kept going back to its large size. =)
