[IC] Broken Glass [Dark Wind & Blitz]

[Gwynbleidd]

The lack of an answer was expected. Although, it did still sting on the inside. Kaelyn simply nodded her head at Landon's words. She wouldn't let him finish, and went up to him and gave him a tight hug. "That's all I needed to hear." She said.

Kaelyn broke off the embrace and went to packing clothes into her dresser, taking everything in stride. As she put clothes in, she kept looking up at the picture of her and Landon. At that moment she smiled and a thought crept into her mind. Kaelyn turned to Landon.

"Umm, since it's going to be winter break soon. I was wondering if you wanted to go on a road trip when it's here?"

[Blitz]

Landon's eyes were wide with shock when Kaelyn reached forward to hug him tightly. What had gotten in to her? He had ever seen her like this. He was genuinely impressed with her sudden change in attitude. When she pulled away, he quietly continued to help Kaelyn with her unpacking. He pulled out her folded clothes and placed them in sorted piles outside for her to grab and put away as she saw fit. Whenever Kaelyn would stand up to put her clothes into the dresser, Landon would stare at the back of her head, not knowing what to think, and would then turn his attention back to her clothes when she would turn around again.

Seemingly out of nowhere, Kaelyn looked at him and proposed going on a road trip during winter break.

Landon had nearly forgotten that winter break was right around the corner. Maybe he was too consumed by schoolwork and the slightly recent turn of events. Or maybe the reason was as simple as the fact that the Floridian climate hadn't dropped a single degree since September.

"A road trip?" he inquired, somewhat intrigued by the idea. "To where?"

[Gwynbleidd]

Kaelyn understood the confused, surprised look on Landon's face. She hadn't really noticed the break was coming up due to all the events happening in her life. It was probably the same for him. To tell the truth, Kaelyn wasn't planning on going anywhere for the break but recently a lot of ideas rolled through her mind, and she really wanted to go to her Aunt and Uncle's in Baltimore.

"Honestly, I have no idea," Kaelyn smiled, "I mean, well I do want to go to my Aunt and Uncle's. I kinda need to smooth some things over with them, and I'm telling my Uncle I will not be a part of his law firm. Tomorrow I'm going to apply to change my major. Decided I want to be an event planner, and come on, we both know that no one knows how to plan a party better than me." She laughed. Kaelyn put a few other clothes in her dresser.

"And, well. On the way we could go anywhere I guess," Kaelyn said, thinking about the one spot she really wanted to go to, "Kinda wanted to go to Caligo Lake." Kaelyn said quickly.

[Gwynbleidd]

Landon's stomach did a backflip when he Kaelyn mentioned Caligo Lake. He had countless memories associated with that place. They nearly overwhelmed him from just hearing the word. But he decided to be cool about it. The past was the past, after all.

"I'm proud of you for making such big changes to your life," Landon replied, addressing the most important thing she had said first.

"I wouldn't mind stopping by ol' Camp Caligo either," he said, flashing her a perhaps overexaggerated smile. "I wonder what's going on there during the winter."

Kaelyn felt like her stomach was in her throat waiting to hear what Landon would say. It relieved her so much to see the smile on his face. She nodded to what he said. They were big changes, but they were the right ones.

"Well, probably not very much. No campers or anything. I wonder if anyone just watches over it. It probably won't be as hot as the summer." Kaelyn said, right before her devilish mind sent a playful smirk to her face.

"In that case we could just heat the place up," She laughed, "Kidding kidding... Maybe." Kaelyn giggled a bit more. "But yeah, I don't know. I just want to see it. Can't really explain it, ya know?"

Landon nodded his head. "No, I get it, I get it," he said. "For... nostalgic reasons, I guess."

"Can we watch the sunset? At our spot..." Kaelyn cut in. "I mean... If that's okay with you."

Landon stopped and raised his eyebrows at her curiously. His heart sped up for a second, and he wasn't sure what he should say to that. He was afraid to go with her. Well, not so much afraid as uncomfortable. But, logically speaking, there couldn't possibly be any harm done going there... Right?

"Well, sure, I guess..." Landon said somewhat reluctantly. "It's certainly been a while since we've watched the sun set there, huh?"

The butterflies stirred all around her stomach, but in a good way. Kaelyn flashed a bright smile at him. She was trying hard to contain her excitement, but asking him had been so nervewracking that when he finally said yes it didn't matter anymore.

"It's been too damn long!" Kaelyn said, "I promise not to be a total bitch this time." Kaelyn rushed her hands to her mouth. She really had a bad habit of letting words fly before thinking about it.

"I mean yeah... Too long," This was a disaster, she really needed to move on to the next topic, "What are you doing for the Winter Ball?"

Landon was confused for a second but grinned as he could see she was nervous. He didn't quite pick up what she had unintetionally hinted at—perhaps it was all the adrenaline flowing—but he didn't really mind.

"Oh nothing really special," Landon said, looking down as he was about to answer what he had silently hoping she wouldn't ask about. "I had actually planned... since a while ago," he wanted to put extra emphasis on the fact that it wasn't recent, "to go with Katrina... You know, just for fun."

Kaelyn was happy that he didn't push it any further and just went with the topic that she threw out there. Her smile dropped, but only slightly when he informed her he was going with Katrina and that they had planned it before.

She couldn't be upset with him or Katrina for that.

"Oh that's cool. I should probably talk to her soon. I mean we texted a bit while I was away. But she is helping me plan the ball and organize it and everything. Uh, anyway. I was going to ask you to go with me, but I think I'll just go all Beyonce Single lady on this one." She laughed.

"Sorry," Landon said quietly. But he knew Kaelyn would have just as much fun going stag, if not more fun. She was just the type of person who knew how to have a good time, even without a date.

"I didn't know you were planning it though," he added quickly to change the subject. "Is that why you want to pursue event planning?"

"Mm, partially. That and I've thrown parties before and I don't know. I just have fun organizing things and seeing it all come together is kinda fun. Hard to explain."

Landon nodded. "I feel ya," he said. He pulled out the last article of clothing from her suitcase, a pair of folded, faded jeans. He handed them to Kaelyn with a sigh. Something still didn't feel quite right between them... But what was it? Finally, Landon thought he found the answer.

"Kaelyn," he said to her. "I'm sorry. About everything."

Before she had time to say another word, he reached forward and hugged her close.

There was a brief silence between them, and then suddenly with Landon's words, a whole bunch of things started pouring into her mind. But, the sudden hug made it all wash away calmly.

His embrace was warm. Kaelyn let herself wrap her arms around him. She put her head into his shoulder.

"Thank you... I'm sorry too."

He continued to hold her in his arms for a few more seconds until he pulled away slowly. For a moment, their entire relationship flashed through his mind. It all seemed like a big psychological and emotional mess. He didn't want to remember it in that way...

She hoped he would remember for little things like this hug, or moments where they were just quiet, side by side watching sunsets as clouds slowly drifted by. Kaelyn didn't want Landon to remember as the girl who had put him through hell and back.

"Um..." Kaelyn started, "I want to go to Caligo because..." she almost started to choke up, "Because I don't want you to remember me as some bitch... but for moments... moments like this one right now."

Landon was stunned. He could see she was on the verge of tears, real tears. For a moment, he couldn't find the right words to say.

"Kaelyn, I... I won't remember you as just some bitch..." he said, feeling himself coming close to tears too. "You're so much more than that to me..."

Kaelyn looked up at him, those words meant so much. "Do you mean that?"

Landon nodded shakily. He knew if he spoke his voice would crack from emotion. But, he had to get something else out...

"Don't ever forget that," he said in a soft voice, raising his hand to her cheek. "Whether as a girlfriend, a friend, a stranger... You'll always mean the world to me..."

She broke out into tears and buried her face in his shoulder, not wanting him to see her like this. It took her a moment to gather herself before looking up at him again. Kaelyn wiped the tears as much as she could.

"You're the closest friend I've ever had... I... I don't even know how to express... you're more than just a friend... more than a word."

"Don't be ashamed of crying," he told her. His voice was firm, but tears were silently dripping from his chin as well. He looked at her and remembered the words of her mother; how she was like broken glass on the inside. Scattered. Confused. Now, it seemed she had gathered all of the shards and has slowly, piece by piece, been building a new life for her self, with a special foundation inside her mother, and in him.

He reached up and wiped the stream of tears from his face.

"And it's okay. Sometimes... actions speak louder than words."

[Gwynbleidd]

Two weeks later

The last two weeks were long, but it felt like it was all worth it. Kaelyn caught up with her work and was set to change her major for the next semester. Everything was going smoothly. She finally returned to soccer and that was harder to get back into after a small break. Kaelyn was rusty, but managed to pull herself through with talent and determination. The only thing that concerned her was her relationship with Katrina. And Landon, of course. But, after that moment in her room, it seemed like things were going to be just fine.

However, it hadn't changed what she had done to Katrina. She planned to apologize profusely on the night of the formal, which happened to be this very night. Kaelyn, Katrina, and other soccer teammates had worked to plan and set up the event. Kaelyn was at the head of it, and although it was chaotic, they raised sufficient funds and put together a beautiful finished product. Kaelyn herself was impressed with the decorations and the great set-up of the entire place. However, she just hoped the night would go on without any major set-backs. The time people would arrive was almost there.

The girls all went back to their rooms to get dressed. Kaelyn knew Katrina had a beautiful green dress she was going to arrive in that was surely going to stun everyone in the room. Kaelyn felt like she might go with a simple and elegant white dress. But, she laughed it off and thought it was too much unlike her personality. Instead she dressed up with a short and tight, super sexy red dress that would knock everyone off their feet.

Kaelyn arrived at the formal. Music was blaring and people were dancing. Laughs and chatter echoed throughout the room. People looked to be enjoying themselves and it brought a smile to her face.

She held her head high and strutted into the formal, guys and girls alike had to do double and triple takes when she passed by. Even professors took notice. She was exactly where she wanted to be.

[Blitz]

About a half an hour before the scheduled kickoff of the Winter Formal, Katrina stood in her dorm's bathroom. She was leaning forward toward a mirror, putting on the finishing touches of her eyeshadow and lipstick. Her golden hair, which naturally had a few loose ringlets in it, had been straightened just for this occasion and fell to mid-back with not a single lock out of place. An exquisite, strapless green dress that was embroidered with an intricate organic design hugged her bust and waist snugly and gave her form a kind of fluid and entrancing semblance and seductivity, especially when she walked in her heels that showed off her long, athletic legs.

She was expecting Landon to arrive any minute to escort her to the gym where the dance was being held. Right as she put the cap back onto her red lip stick, there was a knock at her door. Katrina gave one last look into the mirror and was content with what she saw. She turned and clicked out of the bathroom tile onto the carpet and opened to front door. Landon stood there, clad in a black tuxedo. His hair was combed for once, but still retained that messy look that he always claimed was a chick magnet.

"Hey, cutie," Katrina said, eying him up and down. Landon didn't respond immediately as he was literally stunned at how pretty she looked, though he got ever the shock quickly.

"Hi, beautiful," Landon replied with a smile. "Your corsage." He held up his hand to reveal a corsage bracelet that showcased a mini bouquet of flowers, with a white rose as its focal point, surrounded by smaller green and white orchids.

"Wow, it's just gorgeous!" Katrina exclaimed as she loved how it matched her dress. She held out her hand and Landon slipped it onto her wrist.

"Not as gorgeous as you," Landon shot back with a smirk.

"Au chante..." Katrina replied, flashing back a flirtatious smile. "Are you ready to escort me to the dance, Mr. Gentleman?"

"Of course." Landon held out his arm for her to grab onto. After shutting and locking her dorm's door, the two of them strutted outside together, like a classy couple straight out of the Roaring Twenties.

En route, although not expressed verbally, the two of them had some underlying worries about that night, the main point of concern being Kaelyn. However, the two of them had both seen how much Kaelyn had changed after leaving with her mom, which is why they thought they'd enjoy the night much more if they didn't worry about it.

Just a few minutes later, Landon pushed open the doors of the darkened gym. Katrina already knew what everything looked like because she had helped to set everything up, but she was still impressed with the results of her soccer team's collective efforts, the most impressive aspect being the various colored lights around the gym that were around the gym and programed to flash and turn and change colored in sync with whatever music was playing. This gave the dance a new, modern concert-like appearance that many of the attendees were familiar with, but the dance had many other conventional dance elements, like a punch table and balloons of various colors that covered the top of the ceiling and were placed in different places around the gym. The gym was already filled with dancing students and of the more fun-loving professors.

"You guys did a good job," Landon complimented as they entered together, acknowledging their hard work.

"Thanks!" Katrina answered in a raised voice so he could hear her over the loud music playing. "We worked so hard on it!"

Katrina and Landon made their way into the crowd of people, getting both impressed and jealous looks. Once the two of them were enveloped by the crowd, Katrina laced her arms around Landon's neck and they began to dance somewhat provocatively, as the current song slower, at about 105 beats per minute, but was more of an electro song, which merited more of a sexy dance. However, as the two of them switched between dancing and grinding, Landon couldn't help but wonder if Kaelyn was nearby and watching them, but he knew better than that. Knowing how Kaelyn was now, she was probably out there with a flask of vodka, dancing with whoever was in arm's reach, and having fun on her own.

[Gwynbleidd]

Kaelyn was impressed with how the entire formal had come together. The balloons, the lights flashing in sync with the music. Everything came together exactly as she wanted it. She hoped to run into Katrina at some point to thank her for working tirelessly with her. They had so much fun putting it all together, but Kaelyn had to admit there were moments she was a bit of a dictator. But, the more they had gotten into it, Kaelyn eased up and all the ideas flowed casually back and forth between her and Katrina. And when great minds come together, the result can only be spectacular.

Tonight was the evidence.

Tonight was a colossal moment for Kaelyn. It signified changing times, a major shift in her life. She would stop being so harsh and pushing people away, but at the same time she was still her fun-loving self. Kaelyn couldn't lie she may have had a little to drink before the night. Okay, maybe more than a little. But, still within reason. She knew she couldn't host the event and be a completely sloppy drunk. The buzz she had was putting her in a nice place. That, and she was constantly being hounded by all sorts of guys asking to dance or offering their "creative" comments. She took it all in stride and rejected every single one of them.

The attention was expected. Her dress was bright red with a bunch of sparkly diamond-shaped designs. It was unbelievably tight and hugged every single one of her curves perfectly, and even accentuated them. Her athletic body was on full display, and the dress didn't do much in covering up. It was strapless and exposed her shoulders and a bit of cleavage. But, what garnered a lot of attention were here exposed legs. It was all any guy could do to maintain control whenever she passed them by or talked to them briefly.

She decided to wait to find Landon and Katrina. Kaelyn wanted to have some fun. She walked up to one of Landon's friends she met once. His name was James and he looked very handsome in a black tux with a dark red vest and bow tie. He was well-built, which she expected from a member of the lacrosse team. Kaelyn playfully pressed a finger to his chest.

"Hey there, what are you doing all by yourself. No pretty lady?"

James laughed. "Kind of just waiting for one to show up. Do you know any?"

Kaelyn smirked and enjoyed that he knew how to play the game a little. "I know a few, but none of them knows how to have fun like me."

"Oh really? Care to prove it?"

She laughed. "Boy, you don't know what you've gotten yourself into."

Kaelyn dragged him onto the dance floor. The music emanating from the stereos flowed through her body and brought it to life. Her dancing skills were a point of pride, and only a few house parties had the honor of getting to see her dance. She moved effortlessly to the rhythm, swaying her hips sensually and flashing seductive grins at James. He tried to find a way to slow her down because he couldn't keep up. So, he put his hands on her hips. Kaelyn smiled. She then pressed herself onto him and grinded against him. Several envious looks were cast their way.

They danced like that after a while until a moment that Kaelyn agreed with Katrina to put in came up. It was a surprise for the attendees. All the music stopped, everyone had confused looks on their face. Kaelyn ran over to a microphone on stage. A few people whistled at her.

"What's up South Florida U!?" She yelled, and the entire crowd roared. "Are you having a good time?!" They roared again.

"Alright, so what we're gonna do is have a dance contest to entertain everyone. The winning couple gets two 50 dollar gift cards to Dunkin' Donuts. I don't know about you, but with finals coming up I sure could use 50 dollars worth of coffee." Students laughed at her comment and she smiled. Kaelyn felt at ease.

"Only four couples will compete and they have been cast into…" Kaelyn forgot to bring up the hat. Lacey sprinted up to give her the hat.

"This hat!" Kaelyn said laughing. "I swear, I'm not drunk. Anyways, here are the groups… Kathryn Marie and Lee Evans. Erica Martin and Ryan Cartright. Katrina Fierro and Landon Reyes. And… Oh, I see my friends slipped me in without noticing. James Anderson and myself, Kaelyn Skye."

She looked around. "So, here are the rules. The teams will all go to a song that's been randomly selected for them, and then after, my partner in crime Katrina will read off the couples. Whatever couple gets the most crowd noise wins. Alright, the first team is Kathryn and Lee…"

[Blitz]

Landon was about to lean in and sneak a quick kiss with Katrina, when the music stopped suddenly. Confused, Landon pulled his head back and saw a figure dash up to the stage. A familiar voice came over the microphone and a set of spotlights focused in a smiling, swaying brunette in a skin-tight red dress.

"Oh god," Landon laughed. "What does she have planned?" Katrina stood behind him with a grin on her face, watching Kaelyn go through with the dance competition as planned. What wasn't expected, however, was when Kaelyn announced that they would be participating in the contest, as would she. Landon and Katrina knew all of the other selected nominees on a more or less personal level, so both were anxious to see how this little contest would play out in the end.

The sea of people receded to form a circle of space around Kathryn the cheerleader and her gargantuan boyfriend Lee Evans, the point guard. They stood in front of each other. Their mouths were moving, but it was impossible to discern what they were saying. In a few seconds, with Kaelyn's cue, the first track began to play. After the first measure of the song, everyone knew it was "Burn," but instead of Ellie Goulding's voice, an FSU senior came up to the mic and began to sing the vocal, hitting every note perfectly. Despite their drastic height difference, Kathryn and Lee had good harmony when the danced together. The way the moved around each other, grinded slowly but momentarily, placed their hands on each other, let go, and circled around again was mesmerizing to watch and before everyone knew it, the song came to a close and the crowd cheered for the duo.

Landon leaned toward Katrina, who was at his side. "That'll be hard to beat," he said in a low voice. "Do you happen to know what the third song is?"

"Nope," she replied with a happy-go-lucky attitude about it. "Mmm, but I hope it's upbeat."

Landon chuckled and turned back to the circular space in the center to which Erica and Ryan were already heading. Landon was surprised the two had come to the dance as a couple. Both of them had claimed to be "just friends," but the way they danced on one another to Animals suggested that there were definitely some benefits mixed into their relationship. 

Landon’s heart began to beat faster in anticipation of his and Kaelyn’s turn. What would their song be? Would they do well? Landon wasn’t all the concerned with winning this silly contest, even if Kaelyn was in it too. He was more worried about not looking like an idiot in front of the entire college.

Out of nowhere, the music stopped and Landon refocused on what was going on in the middle. The crowd cheered for Erica and Ryan, who seemed to be more interested in each other at this point. When it came time for them to leave, Landon saw Ryan grab her hand and lead her to the exit.

Now it was their turn. Katrina, the brave girl that she was, stepped forward first and gently took Landon’s hand and led him to the center of the circle. There was a murmur of anticipation among the crowd as they gazed upon one of the most famous couples at school. Some people were confused to see them together, as there was a rumor going around that they had broken up. But, that was only half true in reality… Landon himself was still unsure about how to label his relationship with Katrina, as well as Kaelyn.

Katrina turned toward the DJ with a devious smile.

“Do your worst!” she shouted, which cause an uproar of cheers from the spectators. The DJ nodded at her and fiddled around with the machinery at his table.

There was a brief silence, then the music began. Katrina took a step forward and wrapped her arms around his neck. In response, Landon placed his hands around her waist and drew her in close.

“Just let me lead you,” Katrina whispered in his ear as they swayed with one another.

“Take a look past our innocence…” the song went. “Take a step back to yesterday… When life would move slower, we would never grow up. All we knew that love was for when we’re older… Anything could happen, secretly imagine, they could never tear us apart, too young to fall.”
Meanwhile, Landon and Katrina danced together slowly, staring deep into each other’s eyes.

“This is our story,” the song and crowd sang together. “That we could take back some day. Our lonely glory, that we could get back, they said.”

The song slowly rose in complexity from that point, and it was evident that there would be some kind of beat drop approaching. Landon and Katrina adjusted their dancing accordingly. When the beat did drop, the two of them released one another and began to dance freely, letting the beat flow through them without obstruction. Their movements were perfectly in sync.

As they danced, however, Landon’s eye caught a glimpse of Kaelyn, and a rush of uneasiness surged in his stomach. But he didn’t stop. He continued to dance with Katrina until the very end, but throughout the entire song his mind was on Kaelyn…

“This is our story,” the crowd cheered out with ecstasy as they danced.

Finally, after about five minutes of nonstop movement, the song came to a close, and the a roar of applause and shouts came from the partygoers. Landon and Katrina both smiled at them; Landon bowed, and Katrina gave a curtsy with an invisible, longer dress. Then, the two of them humbly walked off to the side for Kaelyn and her partner.

[Gwynbleidd]

Kaelyn watched with James on her side, in awe as the other contestants danced. She had no idea how well Kathryn and Lee meshed with each other, especially comparing his massive bulk to her slim, cheerleader figure. Yet they moved in perfect sync with each other and the music seemed to be moving with them instead of the other way around. Kaelyn wanted to win, as was always part of her competitive and fiery personality. But, right now, she was smiling and cheering with the crowd. Fun. Having fun.

Another friend of hers, Erica went up and danced wildly with her "friend" Ryan. The fast pace and up-close and personal style of their movements was consistent with the fiery and passionate redhead that was Erica. They could win with a dance like that, and it puzzled her that they left for the exit once the dance was over. Kaelyn laughed to herself.

"What?" James asked. Kaelyn smirked. "If they want to know the results of the contest, then it better be a quickie." James chuckled at her comment before both of their eyes turned back to the the dancefloor where Katrina and Landon took center stage from all of the attentive looks stemming from the crowd. A lot of cat calls and whistles, and giggles from girls towards Landon. Of course, there were just as many, if not more for Katrina. She looked stunning, like absolute royalty. Kaelyn had to admit she looked something like a traditional 1700s noblewoman. Regal, elegant, and absolutely gorgeous. And then the music came on, and everyone was entranced by the performance Katrina and Landon put on.

They looked like they were meant for each other. Or so that's how Kaelyn felt watching them. But, although the thought saddened her, she could still smile and watch happily with the rest of the crowd. Letting her voice resonate with theirs as they sang along with the lyrics.

"This is our story..."

But whose story was it? Landon and Katrina's? Landon and Kaelyn's? Or both?

When it came to a close, thunderous applause rang throughout the room. Once the cute couple stepped off the floor, James and Kaelyn looked at eachother. James with his cocky, calm expression, wearing a perfect smirk on his face. He was like Landon, in fact, he seemed much like Kaelyn and Landon when they first met.

"Ladies first." James said. Kaelyn laughed and gave him a playful smile. "Why aren't you such a gentleman." And they walked out onto the floor. All eyes on them. At this moment Kaelyn felt a little self-conscious about her choice of dress and avoided looks from some people. But, it all clicked in her head. Kaelyn confidently eyed down everyone looking at her with that playful, and secretly deviant smile of hers. She owned the moment.

She had no idea what song would be played, as it was random. But that's what threw her off so much when it started playing. The music... The lyrics. Kaelyn had no idea she was even dancing. It felt natural. Like it was her song.

"Bricks keep falling one by one..." It started slow, but the entire room could feel the deep reservoir of emotional energy from both the song, and Kaelyn's movements. She was one with the melody emanating from the speakers. James and Kaelyn were face to face, dancing in a way it seemed like they knew each other forever. At least that's how it looked. But, she danced as though she were dancing with Landon. The one person she trusted most.

"Cause we can't save our house of hearts..." The music continued. All in attendance could only sit in silence, unlike the other contestants, their performance was personal on all levels. Touching everyone in the audience, moving them to utter silence.

The build-up. The chorus hit. And once the beat sped up, a strange contradiction of flow occurred. While Kaelyn and James appeared to sway and gyrate faster, they still felt like the world passed by in slow motion. Like a scene captured by the flash of a camera, the moment lasted forever. It even caught on to Kaelyn when the song slowly faded to its end. Everyone in the crowd could see the reflections of light bouncing off her face, revealing crystalline-like trails dripping down her face.

When the song stopped, Kaelyn took a deep breath and wiped her face quickly with her hand. Looking out to the crowd with James. Hoping Landon didn't catch that, but, the entire room probably did. Now it was time to wait for Katrina to go up and see who the winner was.

Landon had been by the punch bowl. He was afraid watching Kaelyn dance... with another guy... would stir up some emotions he did not need that night. It was for the better, anyway. He did hear the song though, clear as a whistle. What was peculiar was that the crowd was dead silent. That was either a very good sign or a very bad sign. Perhaps both. But when the music finally stopped, Landon slowly made his way back to where Katrina was standing.

"How were they?" he asked, sipping at his cup, trying to look relaxed.

Katrina had seen the tears on her friend's face and was a little bit concerned. She didn't feel it was right to tell Landon, though. He didn't look like he needed it.

"They did very good," Katrina said simply with a shrug. "Pretty hard to beat."

Landon nodded, as that was a typical Kaelyn move. Coming in for the kill, as usual.

"Well, I gotta go up to the mic for a second. Make sure to cheer real loud for us, okay?"

Landon nodded with a laugh and Katrina clicked on her high heels up to the microphone.

"What performances!" she said. The crowd roared in agreement. "But there can only be one winner..." she continued. "Who will it be?!"

After the crowd settled down again, Katrina called out the first couple: "Let's hear it for Kathryn and Lee!" The crowd responded with decent cheering, whooping, and clapping; out of ten it was around a six or seven. Not bad at all.

"How about the lovely Erica and Ryan?" The crowd began to cheer, but Katrina cut in, looking around. "Wait, where are they?" The crowd stopped its cheering and the attendees looked among themselves for the duo.

"They're banging!" someone screamed.

"Well I certainly hope it was worth being disqualified!" Katrina said. The crowd laughed and she continued.

"What about Landon and me?" The crowd's reaction came out to be around an eight or a nine. Katrina blushed modestly at their enthusiasm. It was a huge self-esteem booster, though she already knew what their reaction would be to the next couple on the list.

Kaelyn had managed to excuse herself from James for a little bit. She decided it would be nice to go and check with Landon. What kind of friends don't talk for an entire night at a formal? So, she did what she always liked doing. Sneaking up on him as though she were some kind of a ninja.

Slowly, with a grin on her face, Kaelyn crept up behind Landon. Noticing he had a cup in his hand. Perfect scare moment. Getting up real close, Kaelyn put her hands on his shoulders and gave them a quick squeeze.

"Boo!" She said, laughing. But, of course, her make-up looked a bit off from her tears. Even though she had fixed it a little bit. Nevertheless, her smile was still brilliant and gleaming. Laughing happily from scaring Landon for kicks.

Landon nearly choked on his punch and had to cough a couple times to get all the liquid out of his windpipe. He turned around to face his assailant and saw it was Kaelyn.

"What the shit?" he asked, though his tone wasn't angry. "Why can't you ever just say, 'Hi, Landon, I'm a dumbass!'?"

She stuck her tongue out him. "Haterrr." Kaelyn replied in a mock Kanye West accent that was pretty awful. "Also, I don't like to tell lies. Well. At least. Not anymore." Kaelyn giggled. "You and Katrina were pretty great on the floor out there. Looked like a royal couple."

Landon shrugged casually. "I'm not much of a dancer," he said, not making eye contact with her. "But you know..." He paused for a second and turned to her.

"I don't think the two of us have ever danced, you know."

Kaelyn smirked playfully at his suggestion. She put her hands on her hips and stuck them out seductively, still with a grin on her face. "Well, you know. We could make up for that lost time once Katrina finishes. We could switch partners."

Landon smiled. "I'd like that," he said simply.

Just a few moments later, Katrina called out the last couple: "Kaelyn and James!"

The crowd exploded into emotional cheers. It completely broke the scale. It was expected of Kaelyn, and neither Landon nor Katrina minded.

"I think we have a winning couple!" Katrina called out over her still-cheering peers.

"Hold on a second." Kaelyn said and left Landon for a moment. Kaelyn and James went up on stage to Katrina and received their prizes. They bowed to the crowd who was still cheering. Kaelyn took the mic.

"Alright, let's rock the ceiling off this place!!!" And the crowd just erupted as the music came back on and everyone danced with a lot of enthusiastic passion.

Kaelyn and James returned over to where Katrina was now with Landon.

"Hey Katrina, would you mind if I borrowed Landon for a few dances? We can switch and you can take James here for a spin. He's a great dancer. And so very handsome, don't you think so Landon?" She said, smirking, ever the merciless tease.

"Uhh..." Landon said, not really sure how to respond. "Yes?"

Katrina shook her head, giggling at him. "Yes, you may borrow my little toy, just make sure you don't break him, mmkay?" She smiled at Kaelyn, and, on a whim, reached forward and hugged her close.

"I'm glad you're okay," she whispered over the music.

Kaelyn was surprised by the hug. "Oh wow, you're going to make me cry again." She smiled. "But don't you worry, I'm completely okay. And, I just wanted to say... I'm sorry. For... well. Being a completely cold, frigid, emotionless bitch? Yeah. I think that covers it."

Katrina was quiet for a moment and pulled away from the hug. She glanced over at James and turned back to Kaelyn with a devious smile playing on her lips. "Consider us even," she said with a wink, but then she laughed. "Just kidding, of course. Let me know when you want to trade back... If I'm willing!" She poked Landon on the chest and flashed Kaelyn one last, warm smile before walking off to James for a dance.

She laughed at Katrina's comments. Happy they were back to their tight friendship that would hopefully build back to be even stronger. Back to the witty back and forths they always had. Katrina was like Kaelyn's friend version of Landon.

At last, Kaelyn went up to Landon and wrapped her arm through Landon's.

"Oh, how forward of you," Landon said, drawing back just a little. "Proper etiquette dictates..." he took her hands off him but held her palms in his. "...that you ask me politely to a dance."

Kaelyn smirked at him. Still playing that back and forth game they played. But this time, much more enjoyable. She eyed him seductively, making sure to stand in as sexy a stance as she could. Which was just about any considering her dress. But the one she chose amplified it.

"Do I look like a proper lady? I'm a woman. And I think I'll just go dance in this mess of people all alone if you don't want me grinding on you in ways you've never thought possible." She said with cool countenance, in a sultry tone of voice. Kaelyn turned around slowly, and swayed her hips walking onto the dance floor, moving her hips in all the right ways. Teasing him.

Landon watched her rear for only a moment before stepping forward and catching hold of her wrist just before she could get away.

"Now why do you always have to be such a tease?" he asked in a mock, pouting voice. "Why don't you just humor me?"

"Are you not humored, Sir Landon?" She asked, imitating an old southern lady's accent. Again, doing it awfully. "I was sure you watched my rear for a moment there. Or am I mistaken?"

"Well," he replied, "I can say I certainly wasn't the only one. When you walk around like some hula-dancer, people are gonna look at your ass. Didn't you pay attention in physics class? Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation. The bigger the mass, the bigger the attraction." He winked at her and nodded at her baskside.

Kaelyn burst into laughter at his comment. She also got a little bolder in thinking of small ways to throw out hints of her affection for him. "You and your science pick-up lines. I'm beginning to think that you're some huge closet nerd. But then again, you already knew I was a long time ago." She said to him.

"Now. Care to dance and teach me more about your scientific theory on emotions. And how we can't choose them? I'm starting to think you were right." Kaelyn said, revealing no more than that as she went to the dance floor again.

It took a moment to process what exactly she was hinting out. But suddenly, before his eyes, vividly, he saw the two of them standing outside a cabin on a summer day. She was wearing sunglasses and jogging gear, looking particularly bitchy and irritable. He looked like he had just woken up. The two of them were arguing about something... Yes... That's right! It was...

Landon reached forward and, this time, caught her on the shoulder.

"Just what are you trying to say?" he asked carefully.

She wondered if he would get the hint, and it was answered as he grabbed her shoulder. Spinning her around to face him. Kaelyn watched those piercing blue eyes as they stared into her own. Kaelyn gulped. She was trembling in his arms, thinking about the words she was about to say. Her heart leaping out of her chest.

"I... I think you know, Landon." Kaelyn said. She brushed her hair back.

"Landon. I-- I'm... Well." Kaelyn kissed him on the lips, pulling him in close for a deep kiss that lasted for but a moment, but seemed so much longer.

"I'm falling in love with you. I am IN love with you." She said it, not believing it. "I love you, Landon Reyes. Every god damn thing about you."

It felt like his heart stopped. It felt like time stopped. For a second, he was almost dizzy. Did he just hear her say what he thought he heard...? He was in a daze. He had no idea what to say or how to say it. He was completely speechless.

"I—I... Kaelyn... I..." He couldn't fnd the right words. "Wh—Are you...—But... Kaelyn..."

Kaelyn grabbed Landon's hand and walked him away from the dancefloor. They went outside where there was a nice balcony overlooking the landscape.

"You don't have to say it back... I can get over it if you want to be with Katrina. Uhh..." Kaelyn looked down, and then back to him.

"I just wanted to say it. Because it's true. It's been true ever since you said it at camp. I was just afraid. Landon, I love you. Even more, I trust you. I don't want to hide from this. For the first time, you have my heart in your hands. I'm letting you in."

"...Why?" Was all he could manage to get out. He was genuinely curious. "Why do you trust me?"

"Landon..." She let out a slight laugh. "You said it to me back then. Put your heart in my hands and I crushed it I know... And I've been sorry ever since. The way you drive me insane by being an idiot. The way you look into my eyes. It's everything Landon. I love it when you're around me, I feel butterflies in my stomach I swear. The way you held me at that beach. You saved MY life, Landon..."

Katrina had seen the two walk off together. In all honesty, it did pain her to see Landon walk off. It really did. But she knew, deep down, that the two were destined to be together. She couldn't interfere with that. She was just glad that the two of them still cared about her. That was the most important thing.

Landon stared at her eyes, and for the first time ever, they were not mysterious. They were soft, loving, and open to love, if he was willing to love in return.

"Kaelyn..." he began... "I've never stopped loving you." He reached up and pulled her face in for a kiss.

[Blitz]

Time froze. A picture perfect moment. Kaelyn slid her arms around Landon as they kissed. She could admit that making out with Landon was always fun. But this time, her lips tingled from the sensation. The spark between them returned. It was more than a spark, the chemistry between the two was more like a raging fire. She really didn't want to stop. But she managed to pull away to catch her breath.

"... Well. I don't even know what to say."

Landon smiled, enjoying the rush of adrenaline he got every time he kissed her. But this was more than just lust. It was... Well, it was love!

"You don't need to say anything," Landon said. His hands moved down the sides of her shoulders, down her arms, and back up again.

"You were worth every second," he whispered seductively in her ear.

Kaelyn got the goosebumps as his strong hands moved down her arms. She smirked when he came in close and whispered in her ear, sending a chill down her spine.

"Down boy, you aren't trying to get me going, are you? Hmm... that was probably a stupid question." Kaelyn quickly moved and pulled a surprise nibble at his neck before capturing his lips with hers.

Landon allowed her to kiss him passionately. He remembered how, in the past, he would try to resist her powerful charm, which, in retrospect, was probably him trying to cover up his own attraction for her. Well, after all, Landon admitted his love for her long before this. It's not like it ever went away. Though it was definitely put to the test.

After a few more seconds, he broke away.

"How long have you loved me?" he asked, his face unexpectedly serious.

Kaelyn reluctantly let him break the kiss and just stared into his deep blue eyes, the icy surface melting away. The feeling that channeled throughout her entire body like electricity was once unfamiliar. And it scared her. But no more. Kaelyn rested her head head on his shoulder and looked up to him.

"... Ever since you said it to me. On the beach." She said calmly.

Landon nodded. He suspected as much. Kaelyn was probably just too scared and too… unprepared to admit it back then. It was just that past summer, but he felt like the two of them had grown up so much since then.

“It’s about goddamn time,” he said with a smirk.

Kaelyn grinned back, as the beat of the music could still be heard outside she began moving to the rhythm. She swayed seductively with her trademark smile that could lure anyone into her midst. She pulled his hands to her hips as she moved up against his body and grinded on him lightly, slowly… Teasing him without mercy.

She turned her head to whisper over her shoulder.

“I bet you want to take this dress right off of me… But… You’re going to have to wait. Two weeks. If you can.”

Landon felt a tug at his gut as the two of them danced, but he frowned when she turned her head to say that to him.

“Two weeks? Why--... Oh!”

He remembered their plans… their plans to go back.

The thought excited him.

“I can wait,” he replied. “But the question is… can you?”

Kaelyn spun around and danced up real close with his arms wrapped around her. She felt safe. Stealing a quick kiss, she smiled.

“It’ll be hard, but I can wait… I. I want it to be special… The first time I do-- Well you understand right?” She said, looking at him almost frowning. Hoping he’d understand what she means. She tried to remain seductive and sexy to hide her worries.

“I might even bring the dress for the occasion.” She slipped in with a wink.

Landon shook his head.

“No,” he said. “I want you to wear that tank top with the little floral designs on it. And those cute, white booty shorts.”

“Hmm… I was actually thinking the red top with those white shorts.” Kaelyn shot back at him.

Landon smirked.

“I don’t know, Kae. You wore that tank top at the beach that day.”

“You’re right. This time it will be different.” Kaelyn kissed him.

---

(TWO WEEKS LATER)

Lake Caligo: 10 miles
The green sign flashed by on the side of the road. They were finally getting close to their destination. Landon was driving his black Ford Explorer with Kaelyn sitting quietly in the passenger seat next to him. Landon had one hand on the wheel, and, while he was paying close attention to the winding, dirt road climbing up the Appalachain Mountains, he seemed a little distracted. Maybe he was nervous. Maybe he was excited. The two of them knew what was going to happen.

The air outside had gotten slightly cooler as they ascended in altitude, but it was still very comfortable outside. They had made only one pitstop along the way to refill his tank and most of their journey was spent with minimal conversation. It felt like they were in a hurry to get to where they were headed, but neither felt rushed at all.

“Here we are,” Landon said monotonously.

Up ahead, the dirt road stretched into a small, dirt lot in front of a thin line of trees. His truck came to a stop at the edge of the lot and they both hopped out. The air was crisp and smelled of pine and moss. The familiar smell triggered an episode of memories to playback in Landon’s mind. He welcomed them.

The two of them took a few steps past the line of trees, which dispersed to reveal a large plot of grass surrounding a sparkling, blue lake. Here and there, small cabins dotted the area along with some larger buildings. It was evident that this was some kind of summer camp, but it was obviously not in use at the moment.

Kaelyn breathed in the fresh air of the forest around them. She listened to the distant sound of the lake water rushing against the sand. With the gentle breeze around them whistling a soft, natural melody that made the air tranquil. She was comfortable in her white shorts and floral tank top. It might be winter, but South Carolina was still relatively warm.

“Can we check out our cabin?” Kaelyn’s face lit up with excitement, looking at Landon. “I promise to behave when we get in there.”

“You’ve misbehaved in there since day one,” Landon recalled, his tone insinuating that he was speaking more… figuratively. “But all right. Let’s take a look…”

Of course, both of them knew exactly where to find Cabin Six. It was nestled just a few hundred feet from the shore of the lake, with it’s door facing away. When they came to the doormat, Landon tried the handle, but it was locked. Well, that made sense.

“Hold on…” he said. He jogged over to the back edge of the house that faced the lake and located the bedroom window. With a grin, he gripped the bottom and slid the pane upward.

“Bingo.”

He came back around the corner and beckoned Kaelyn to follow him in climbing through the window.

Kaelyn grinned. “I must be rubbing off on you with my deviant mind.” She said, following him around the back of the house. After he climbed through, Kaelyn hopped up and smoothly slid in with her legs first, landing on her feet easily in one motion.

It was mostly empty, as expected. Except for plain white sheets and a blanket with some pillows on the beds. Everything else was in order. The dressers, everything. Kaelyn walked over to the bathroom and walked in before turning to Landon, laughing really hard. Gathering her breath she looked at him.

“Everyone knows it’s more efficient for two people to shower together.”

Landon broke out into laughter and walked closer to her. “I believe the exact quote was, ‘Showers are awfully lonely, don’tcha think?’”

“My god, I can’t believe I said that.” Kaelyn laughed, “Actually. I definitely can.” A devilish smile playing on her lips. “Perhaps this time you might actually take up the offer… handsome.” She added extra emphasis on the handsome.

“I don’t think the water’s running,” Landon replied with a frown. He then laughed as he remembered something. “Kaelyn, do you remember…” He paushed to gasp for breath. “Colton and Brooke and Gwen…?”

Kaelyn blushed, putting a hand to her face. “Oh... my god. I was way too fucked up that night! You can’t just bring that up. Not fair… But I totally rocked your world.” She finished with a seductive tone.

Landon nodded with a nonchalant shrug. She certainly hit the nail on the head there.

“Do you ever wanna relive those days?” he asked.

She paused at his question, thinking about it. “Actually? No. Maybe I’d do certain things differently, but. Well, I’m better than I was then. I’d rather live in the now.”

“Really?” Landon said. “I disagree. Well… Maybe you’re right. But you can’t deny that we weren’t happy then. Oblivious, maybe. But happy. I think that means something.”

He watched her for a moment and then sighed, turning away from her and walking rather aimlessly about the cabin, looking at all the nooks and crannies and soaking in all the memories that surfaced. There were so many…
“We were crazy,” was all he could think of to say. “Wild.”

Kaelyn laughed. “Yes, really. And sure. We were blissfully ignorant. Peaceful, even happy. It took our minds off of a lot of things. But, they were guaranteed to resurface. What happened happened. May not have ended… in the best way ever. Sorry about that… But, I got to meet you. And here we are again. With a second chance to make things right.” She watched him walk around, scanning every part of the room as well.

She walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around him to whisper in his ear. “I don’t know about you… But I’m still crazy and wild.” Kaelyn then took the opportunity to nibble his ear with a cute little growl.

Landon smiled, looking at her through the corner of his vision.

“I thought you were gonna hold back until we got to our spot…?” he asked. “But then again, there aren’t clean beds on the beach.”

Kaelyn put her hands on her hips and faked a pout. “What? I can’t have a little sample of my favorite meal?” She winked at him.

“And these beds will get in on the action later. In round two… or six.” She laughed.

Landon’s eyes widened for a moment and then narrowed with a grin.

“We’ll have to see if I still have circulation in my legs,” he said with a chuckle.

Kaelyn put on a completely serious face on and just looked Landon dead in the eyes. “When I’m done with you you won’t be able to walk…”

“Just like before,” he said with a faux loving tone, but he soon broke out into laughter.

“C’mon, let’s go find our spot. The sun’s starting to set.”

Kaelyn picked up her bag. But, she put up her hand. “Wait. Stay here for twenty minutes, then come to the spot. No ifs ands or buts!” And with that, Kaelyn went out of the cabin.

She went to the spot, and pulled out supplies from her bag. Kaelyn placed out two large towels side by side. Then, she placed different candles around the spot and lit them. When everything was finally set, she adjusted her top and shorts to look even sexier. Kaelyn lied down in a model-like pose, waiting for Landon.

Landon sighed and feared what Kaelyn had planned for him, but he didn’t argue. He watched her butt as she climbed back out the window and off to who-knew-where. He half expected her to hijack his car and strand him here, but he knew she wouldn’t do that… Hopefully.

He pulled out his phone and checked the time. Twenty minutes. Okay. He passed the time by continuing to look around the room and relive old memories, and as all nostalgic trips cause to happen, the time passed very quickly.

“Ready or not, here I come…” he muttered as he climbed out the window and slowly, reluctantly shut the window behind him. He felt a little sad… But why? Aw, who knew. Feelings were dumb anyway. With a carefree laugh, Landon turned and began to walk to their spot that had a perfect view of the setting sun.

When Sunset Strip came into view, Landon saw a figure laying in the sand surrounded by points of flickering light. He stifiled a laugh. Of course she came to set the scene. That was adorable, and he appreciated that she went through the trouble to do that.

He came up to her slowly and stopped a couple feet away.

“Did you get any sand in your bra?” he asked, sitting down next to her.

lKaelyn giggled at his comment, but the flames flickering in the reflection from her green eyes. The sunset bouncing off the water. An explosion of color in the night sky, a passionate farewell of day to the gleaming white stars of the black night.

Her expression was kind and warm, yet wanting him to be closer. Kaelyn exuded an erotic aura around her, an intense passion that consumed everything in its path.

With a smile she said, “I’m not wearing one.”

Landon smiled, watching the sun dip lower and lower toward the distant woodsy horizon. He could feel the electricity between them bring the air to life and fill the entire camp with a vibrant energy despite it being empty. With a grunt, he slowly reclined in the sand next to her, and he cleared his throat.

“Well?” he said with a slightly cheeky tone. “I’m waiting.”

Kaelyn pounced on Landon immediately. Laughing as she knocked him to the ground. She got on top of him. Leaning down she breathed against his neck before lightly biting and kissing at it. Kaelyn then moved her lips up to his and made out with him aggressively.

He let her do as she willed with him, enjoying and savoring every second of it. After a few minutes of this, he pushed her off him and he rolled on top of her, pinning her arms next to her head.

“That wasn’t what I was referring to,” he said, his nose pressed up against hers.

For moments, she enjoyed taking charge. Having Landon at her mercy. But he suddenly turned the tables on her. She let out a squeal and a laugh as he rolled her over and pinned her arms. Kaelyn could only look at his eyes, helplessly. She breathed hard, feeling a tingle all over her body anticipating his next move. His face pressed up so close against hers.

“Oh…” Kaelyn panted, “What were you referring to, then?”

“I think you know,” he breathed. Gravity seemed to pull his body closer to hers and he could feel both of their individual heartbeats, pumping all kinds of crazy hormones.

Kaelyn bit her lip sexily, quivering underneath his hold. She breathed out her words to him softly. “You want me to beg for it?” Kaelyn started.

“I’m all yours… I want you so badly. Please stop teasing me, you’re driving me… crazy.”

“Getting warmer…” he said slowly, he moved his head downward and licked up her neck, stopping at her lips.

“Just three words… That’s all you need, to have me all to yourself…”

Kaelyn moaned from his actions. She couldn’t do anything but endure the pleasurable torment. At last she looked into his eyes.

She still felt a bit daring.

“Make me say it.”

Landon glared at her, but the response didn’t surprise him.

“I thought I was driving you crazy…” he said softly, stopping momentarily to kiss her neck slowly.

“I guess I might just have to make you go insane then.”

Kaelyn leaned her head backward, arching her body back in ecstasy. Trying to get out of Landon’s grip, but not trying very hard.

“You’re gonna…Oh my god... have to do better than that.” She said, challenging him.

Without giving a response, Landon kissed her hard, nearly cutting her off at the end of her sentence. It wasn’t a rough kiss, but it was very deep and he could feel his energy pouring into her. His hands pressed down harder on her wrists and he fidgeted his body so she could feel every inch of it.

He pulled away, breathless, and stared at her.

With a sharp intake of breath, Kaelyn was prepared as Landon’s lips crashed down upon hers. The heat of the moment was far too much as she writhed in pleasure underneath him. His body tight against hers. When he pulled away, taking the breath away from both of them. Kaelyn gave out a pathetic, whimpering gasp.

“I love you! You can have me… Take me, please.”

Landon smirked, satisfied that he had won her over. Finally. No more complications… No more drama… No more broken hearts...

“Only ‘cause you said please,” he replied.

-fade to black-

---

With the morning light streaming in the window, its golden glow slowly strolling up to the bed. Perfectly hitting Kaelyn’s face. She slowly awoke, eyes fluttering open. Landon was by her side, her arm comfortably around him, cuddled up against him.

She smiled and bit his neck, and his ear lightly. Kaelyn spoke in a playful tone.

“Wake up sleepy head.”

Landon smiled in his drowsy state and opened his eyes with a smile.

“Good morning,” he said. “I can feel my legs, thankfully.”

“Have you tried walking yet?” She grinned. Kaelyn kissed him quick before getting up. She grabbed Landon’s oversized shirt and put it on. It covered her, but showed off her smooth, long legs.

She went up to the counter, prepared for the stay here. Kaelyn pulled out two bowls and poured some cereal, purposefully leaning against the counter to tease Landon.

Landon grunted and pushed the covers off himself and swung his legs off the bed and stood up. They supported him. He smiled and walked over to the counter and grabbed a bowl, giving her a wink to acknowledge her sexiness.

“Where are we going after this? Baltimore?” he asked, sitting down.

Kaelyn took a spoonful of her cereal and chewed it while listening. She smiled as Landon watched her. “Baltimore it is. You are correct, sir. And for that answer, here is your prize.” Kaelyn flung cereal and milk from her spoon at Landon. It hit him on the cheek.

She laughed, but could see a devious look about to show on his face.

“Landon, no!” She yelled, laughing, running away from him.

Landon jumped up from his chair and darted after her. As he was just a little bit quicker, he managed to grab her around the waist. Heaving, he picked her up and playfully tossed her onto the bed they had just gotten out of.

Before she could get up he dived onto the bed, pinned one of her hands to her side and began to tickle her free hand’s armpit mercilessly.

“Say you’re sorry!”

Kaelyn squealed and wriggled underneath Landon’s tickle onslaught. “Oh my god, stop!” She laughed hard as he continued. “Please, please, I’m sorry!” She breathed out hard in between her laughs.

When he had stopped, Kaelyn just looked in his eyes.

“We… better go soon or we might never leave.” She said smiling.

Landon nodded sadly. “You’re right…” he agreed, grabbing his pair of shorts from the ground and pulling them over his boxers.

“I’m...sad,” he said finally, plucking an extra shirt of his from Kaelyn’s bag and pulling it over his head. “I was feeling this earlier, but I don’t know why.”

Kaelyn moved close to Landon and gave him a tight hug, resting her head on his shoulder. “I’m sad too… I think. I think it’s because we’re growing up. And , there’s just so many memories. Moving on from this part of our lives…”

“But, I mean, we’re not moving on too far,” Landon said. “Because we’ll still be together… Right?”

“Landon… You’re the only man I could ever love.” She kissed him on the lips.

He couldn’t help but smile as she pressed her lips against his.

“Then I’m ready to move on, if you are.”

“I am.” Kaelyn said, smiling back. She threw on some more “covering” clothes and grabbed her bag. Kaelyn opened the front door and looked at Landon, holding her hand out to him.

“Walk with me?”

“Yeah.” Landon came to her and took her hand, shutting the door behind them.

The couple walked together, hand in hand, through the camp, just as the sun was beginning to peak above the treetops. Walking into a new and unknown future. But one they’d be facing together… With love.

-The End-