ULTIMATE CONTEST, July

[dancesandsways]

The rules for this month's contest are simple as can be!

Deadline
By July 23rd, a poll will be up on the 24th, please have your entry posted in this thread or PMed to me or any other active staff members if you do not wish to have your entry posted for everyone else to see.

Rules
Write a short story, no more than 3 pages and no less than 1 page. The story must begin with:
"I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks."


Happy writing!

-The Staff

[Alice-B-Black]

Caught in Your Explosion
By Alice B. Black
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. Sitting with my elbows planted in the sand of the beach I stared at the empty blue sea. My eyes stun, whether it was from the memory or the salty sea salt, I don’t think it really mattered. Emotions were rattled inside my chest waiting to explode and I refused to let the fuse that burned towards the raw innards of my being set them free.

The night sky had reflected into the vast rippling waves where the endless abyss laid not so long ago. Even though the sun now shown, I clearly remembered everything as it was. It was frozen in my mind as a Polaroid picture already fading at the edges. My neck itched where several dark bruises now covered my skin and I thought of the boy whom sat on the beach next to me only hours ago.

When I first saw him I didn’t realize he was looking right at me. I was caught in the moment of the lively explosions of color and the world around me was a blur of shadows reflected in the faint light of fireworks. My eyes merely gazed over him at first but when I caught the glimmer of his hazel eyes I took a double take of this lone figure. Our eyes locked and in my chest my heart was restless. With the crook of his finger he pulled me in and I all but leapt into his arms.

He whispered sweet love into my ears as my eyes still stared lovingly into the night sky. The explosion of color captivated me to no end. My small mouth hung limp as the glitter fell into the abyss. “Beautiful,” he whispered. I had assumed he was referring to the fireworks but when I looked back into those hazel eyes I realized I’d been mistaken. He brushed his thumb down my cheek to my moist lips. Leaning in I brushed my lips against his own. It was a rather simple kiss, there were no sparks or waves of lust. Simple was all I needed.

I opened my eyes to the bright sky above me brushing my sandy fingers over my lips. I may have not felt anything last night but in my memory it seemed all the more sweeter. He was a stranger, a face without a name, but his sweet soul captured my own. Raising up my arms in a scream of frustration I landed back in the sand with a thud. The gold colored specks flew up around me and I had to close my eyes before they added to my pain.

Last night the fireworks were all I could blame to my stupidity. I was so lost in the childish fascination that I had forgotten everything. Perhaps if I had just looked up and opened my eyes I would have asked his name. All I could remember was his hazel eyes which reflected the explosion of light in the night sky. There was one word to describe it: beautiful.

The tide would take me away soon. Staring up into the sun I wondered what happened to the boy. We had sat for hours on the dark beach just watching the fireworks. As the finale finally occurred, I realized I was alone. The sky was dark and there was no one else on the beach. I never moved from the spot. Now I was still here, just in a new position. I watched the white clouds pass the horizon overhead, the sky of blue brightening my day.

It was time to go. Standing on shaky legs I watched the waves tipped with white foam brush up against the golden sand washing away the footprints in the sand. Walking forward I stood ankle deep in the water letting the freezing temperature wake me. The wind caught my hair as it fluttered through the open sky and like the ocean I hoped it would take me away.

I smiled with the memory and let it slip from my eyes finally. Tears rolled down my sand covered cheeks and dropped into the ocean. I wished I could hear his voice again. The word beautiful hung in the air making me smile. Wiping away the tears I turned and walked away from the ocean towards my rusty old car.

Thinking doesn’t get one anywhere. I sat in my car behind the wheel and stared at my last glimpse of the ocean. Alone. I was alone in this car and I could only smile knowing that it was enough. I’d never know who he was but in the end that didn’t matter. We were only children caught up in the moment, a moment pushed together into memories which are strung together into a life.

The car roared at the turn of the key and my smile grew even bigger. I left the beach behind me and moved onto something new. Passing an old café I stopped at a stop sign peering through the dirty windows. Words were trapped in my throat as I caught a glance of those hazel eyes. I’d been content on leaving off everything on the tips of the ocean yet now that I saw him once more I was beside myself. It was the blaring horn of the car behind me that shook me from my frozen thoughts.

His eyes glanced through the window at my car but I didn’t give him a chance to realize that I was staring at him. Flooring the vehicle I zoomed through the intersection and turned into a florist’s parking lot. Shaking, I sat in my car letting my nerves calm themselves. I was content only minutes ago with letting this boy go, what was wrong with me? I was fooling myself when I knew that my heart was still restless for him.

Trying to settle my breathing I took several deep breaths. Pounding on my driver’s window made me scream and jump away from the door. Closing my eyes I placed a hand over my heart and hoped it wouldn’t jump out of my chest.

He was standing outside my door smiling. In his hands were two cups. I could only blush as I fumbled with the lever to roll the window down. He leaned into my window with ease and handed me one of the drinks. “Want to take a walk?” he asked simply.

Barely nodding I undid my seatbelt and threw open my car door. Leaving it in the parking lot I followed him closely. Sipping the coffee he had given me I wondered when one of us would say anything. I couldn’t let myself be blinded by fireworks again. They were going off all around me and my heart felt as though it would explode at any moment.

My face was hot and I turned to say something. He was staring at me again and I lost all words. Smiling, I took another drink and looked down at my feet. “Can I ask you something?” he spoke softly. I nodded and glanced at him quietly. “What’s your name? I wanted to ask you last night but I was just so caught up in the moment I didn’t think.”

I laughed turning to face him. Grabbing his hand I looked up into his hazel eyes. “Really? Because I was the same way! You must think I’m childish but I was so intent on watching the fireworks that I barely thought of you!” We both laughed merrily as we stood in the middle of the downtown sidewalk.

“Kate.”

“Jacob.”

We shook hands as if we were finally meeting one another for the first time. We found our way to a bench where we sat and talked all morning about ourselves. I was lost to this boy with the hazel eyes that captivated me to no end. We had no idea where we were headed but we let ourselves get swept up in a storm of a moment.

Leaning in, I kissed him and my heart exploded as his lips touched mine once more.

[charminglyperfect]

Blue Eyes.
by pepperr.

---

I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. Who would have believed that Cindy Barker would be standing with me during the last few seconds of 2007? She had always been a close family friend, shy, quiet and isolated from the rest of the world.

Mother had always thought we'd make a cute couple, "But I preferred the prettier ones," I told her. I was vain, and Cindy never really met my expectations.

"Look at that," her quiet voice broke through my thoughts. She was pointing to a small store set up by the crowded sidewalk. It sold fairy floss in five different colours. Apparently, Cindy wanted some.

"I don't have any money," I told her. We both knew I didn't want to be here. A pack of beer shared between my mates in the garage would have been a good enough New Year's Eve for me; it made no difference whether it was 2007 or 2008. The sun still rose and shone, then settled down and out came the moon. Life was just a prolonged rut which everyone had to go through. Besides, there was no point in celebrating something you'd forget the next day. It was just another excuse to get drunk.

Cindy didn't seem to mind the fact that I had no money. She grabbed my arm by the sleeve and dragged me towards the stall, then ordered one pink and one blue stick of fairy floss. She paid.

"Here," she smiled as she handed me the pink stick. Her blue eyes sparkled under the tall street lamp. I frowned.

"I want the blue one," I demanded. Cindy continued to smile as she handed over the blue one.

We walked down the busy sidewalk. I looked like a wimp holding a stick of fairy floss whilst clad in a thick leather jacket and biker boots. People stared and I returned the favour. They should mind their own business.

Cindy seemed indifferent. She was always indifferent. If I hadn't known better, I'd have thought she was hooked on heavy drugs. But she wasn’t. Cindy had always been like this ever since that day we'd met. I had been throwing fresh mown grass over the dividing fence between our house and the next when Cindy approached from behind and cheerily greeted me. Her bright blue eyes had widened and her smiled showed all her teeth. Some would call it happy.

I called it scary.

Cindy's face held a look of peaceful excitement. She was happily ripping off chunks of fairy floss and shoving them into her mouth. I cringed at the sight. I needed a cigarette.

"Here," I shoved the stick of fairy floss I was holding into her free hand. For a second, her eyes were devoid of absentminded happiness and shock passed through them. Then it clouded over once more.

I turned on my heels and began to walk away.

"Where are you going?" she cried out from behind me. Her voice was barely audible, but I caught it by the passing wind.

"Just stay where you are. I'll be right back," I called back to her without looking back. She would understand. She always did.

I crept down a deserted alleyway and leaned against the wall. Twirling a cigarette between my fore and middle finger, I pondered whether I should cut this night short.

Cindy was a nice girl, but she was not my type.

"I want you to take Cindy out tonight. It's New Year's Eve! Teenagers shouldn't been cooped up in the house at such a time!" my mother had told me. It didn't help that I had been caught with a beer in my hand just mere hours before. She definitely wanted me out of the house tonight.

"Why?" I had demanded to know. Cindy and her bright blue eyes were like a complete stranger to me. She and her family came over often, but I usually locked myself in the garage when they came. The thought of talking to them horrified me, an eighteen year old boy.

"Because it saddens me to know that two teenagers would be spending their last minutes of the year by themselves." I was about to tell her that I would not be alone. Chad was coming over to get drunk with me. My mother's eyes flickered over to the confiscated can of beer sitting on the kitchen counter. I knew she was going to use that against me. "You know what my thoughts are on alcohol. If you do not want your father to know about this morning, I suggest you do as I say."

You might think me weak if I'd agreed to such a trivial date because of a small threat, but I had my reasons. My father and I had completely different views on what was wrong and right. He always had his way.

I took one last puff out of the short cigarette butt and dropped it onto the floor, grinding the last preservations of life it held. I walked out of the alleyway to look for Cindy.

She was standing in the exact same spot I had left her at. Her hair was getting blown around wildly by the wind, but she had no way to fix it. Her hands were both occupied by the fairy floss.

Cindy's eyes brightened as she saw me. "Oh thank goodness. I was getting worried you'd gotten lost."

I looked into her blue eyes. Had they always shone like that? I'd never noticed the way a teal swirl of colour surrounded the rim of her iris, or the way the blue blended together to complete the formation of colours.

Cindy, what pretty eyes you have.

"TEN MORE SECONDS!" bellowed a voice from large speakers all along the sidewalk.

Her usual clouded eyes were clear, and returned my stare contently. Cindy tilted her head, asking an unvoiced question which I had no answer to. I couldn't tear myself away.

Maybe it was the cigarette. I should really quit.

"ONE! HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!"

The sudden collision of our lips sent shock waves through my body. For once I felt content with the world, ignorant of all its bad qualities. The sound of the fireworks shattering into a billion pieces danced in rhythm to my pounding heart beats.

This feeling was weird. Abnormal. Different.

I blame it on the fireworks.

---

Thanks for reading! (:

[beingmyself]

Fireworks: Not-So Bane of My Existence

I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. Usually if you ever think of the kind of air firecrackers bring it's an excited, cautious, and anticipatory one. It wasn't that night, at least, not to me. The mood was sparked with unseen anger –my anger- and when those firecrackers started going off Tuesday night, the fuse that lit them lit my fuse too.

Let's rewind to Friday though, when it all started.

I was working on a Friday night during the summer. I'd had to cancel plans; it was just great, you know? Then, adding insult to injury is the fact that it was the official beginning of the Canada Day weekend. Saying the least, I wasn't amused.

I could hear the firecrackers from the small convenient store I worked in; it doesn't help when I just sold cherry bombs to some teenagers and they're now setting them off outside. I should shoo them off but I'm too lazy and grumpy to do it right now.

The bell over the door of Wong's rang and in walked a young girl with a goofy grin. She looked smitten and gorgeous with honey hair and a thin figure. God, I want to be her.

"Hey, Sis."

"Oh thank God you're here. I'm having a bad night," I explained, getting ready to let out my problems to her.

"Oh. Really?" she asked, her head tilted to the side. "Well, that sucks. I'd love to listen to you rant, but you kinda get side-tracked and I don't have much time."

"I do not!" I said defensively, pouting at the same time.

"Yes, you do Desti. Any who, I just need some chips, booze, and fireworks then I'm out," she said as she skipped down aisles, grabbing whatever was on her list.

"You can't just leave me! I'm so bored."

Jenny placed her items on the counter and explained, "I can too. Now hurry up, my friends and Brian are waiting. We're going to Falls Point for a bonfire."

I did what she wanted then told her seriously that I wasn't letting her buy the alcohol. My little sister is only seventeen, ok? If I've got to be responsible and turn her down, well, I've got to. Insert grin.

Jenny grinned too and replied, "Figured. That's why Brian's going to. He's nineteen."

Cue major hottie, Jenny's latest catch, walking in. What could I say to that? Notta.

That was the end of that, I was back to working on the weekend.

-~-

I had the better part of the morning off Sunday but it hadn't mattered. Kids had set off the screeching firecracker that makes lots of noise outside of my house at 11. Seriously, who does that during the day? It's just a waste. I'm getting sick of these explosives.

Fireworks are the bane of my existence. I told my friend this when he texted me.

Danny boy save me! Work 1 2 9. Damn fireworks. They r everywhere. Gonna shove a c-bomb up a kid's butt.

Cant save u sry. Suck it up kiddo. Firecrackers r awesome. Leave em alone. Go out aftr work cheer up :)

Cant. Work tmrw 2. Life sux :(

U suck. G2G. DB.

No sympathy here. What did I expect? He's a laid-back jobless guy. I'm whining to him.

-~-

We've fast-forwarded, skipped over Monday, and pressed play on Tuesday, Canada Day. It should be renamed D-Day 'cause it sure feels like it's that day instead.

The only good thing about Tuesday was I had it off since it was a national holiday. It started out great; I slept in, soaked in the tub, and read a book. The only disturbances were those damn minor explosives going off occasionally but in my good mood, I hardly noticed.

Everything goes downhill, doesn't it? It did as the festivities truly began that night.

My neighbour is Christian Talon; he's 22, like me, and currently having a big party.

I wasn't invited. I didn't expect to be. We don't quite get along. It has to do with his dog chasing my cat up a tree in my yard, but the past is the past, right? People can torment each other's pets but still live a content existence. Scratch that. His firecrackers are landing in my yard. He's going to set my fricking tree on fire!

-~-

After ten minutes of ringing the doorbell futilely and watching fireworks go off near my tree, I barged into the backyard.

"Christian! Christian? Where the hell is Christian!?"

Mr. Tall, Handsome, and Setting My Tree on Fire turned around and saw me ranting.

I walked up to him, satisfyingly jabbed his firm chest and was promptly dragged away.

"What the hell do you want, Destiny?"

"Why'd you drag me out here? The fireworks are back there. We have to stop them! You're going to light my tree up like it's Christmas."

"What? No I'm not!" he said, outraged. I recognize that look.

"Yes you are, dumbass!" I exclaimed, arms waving frantically.

He sighed and ran his hand through his dark silky hair. "Look, they're the required three metres away from your precious tree, ok? I checked."

"Oh." That's a surprise. He really did that?

POP! Pop, pop.

"Way to jump me."

I literally did too. The firecrackers scared me right into his lean, tan arms.

I rolled my eyes. "You can let go of me now."

He did. We were still standing so closely to each other though that I smelt the scent of wood coming off him mixed with my blueberry bubble bath. Our bodies pressed so tightly together that I couldn't jab him in the chest again either.

Five seconds later there was more pop popping of firecrackers and guess where I was again? In those damn arms of his, and he was enjoying it. I was too, but shh. That's when I felt the atmosphere change but couldn't tell why until he pointed it out.

"Feel that?"

"What?" I asked suspiciously. Did he feel it too? Was it his doing?

"Sparks," he said, dipped his head low and held his lips inches from mine. Tease.

"Think this is destiny, Destiny?"

I ignored his cheesy lines to instead grab him for a real kiss. Oh yeah, our soft lips just lit firecrackers of our own. They might not be the bane of my existence after all.

Hope you liked it! :)

[Purple.Hippo]

I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. As each soared into the sky, exploding into a pool of shimmering light, my heart was thumping with immense fear.

The previous night had been a whirlwind of events, becoming engaged becoming single and becoming alone. I was never sure how I could cope with all of that and more. I was never in the frame of mind that it would happen even as a worse case scenario. But it did.

So in love. That couple that you see on the street, hand in hand, smiling, sharing those passion filled glances, that was us. Unmistakably sickening. But it felt right; from the first date we went everywhere together. He'd give me his jacket if I was cold; ask if I was okay if I even sniffled. As time whipped by, I found myself imaging what it would feel like if he proposed, how our lives would go. Would it be a fairytale of happy endings? I could picture a white wedding with doves and all. I didn't have to wait long, despite everyone telling us it wouldn't last, we were wrong for each other, both so into playing the field.

At first it was an overwhelming sense of belonging. I knew who I was in the split second that I said yes. He completed me. I'd never witnessed a happy relationship, yet we'd been together for three years, of course the odd argument cropped up, but we were strong, we could do this. By asking me to marry him, it suddenly seemed like a sealed deal. We'd made it this far, what different would the rest of our lives make? We had proved the critics wrong.

Barely two hours after he'd 'popped the question', cuddled on the small loveseat in front of the television, watching what was probably a rerun of an old sitcom, we found ourselves discussing our future. Our dreams, our ambitions and our ideas for our future together. It was of course this conversation that led to my single status.
I'd been keeping a secret from him for almost two weeks. And his ambitions did not include the secret I kept. I knew in an instant the way that his reaction would probably go. But I still had to tell him. Nothing that I could tell myself would soothe the thoughts of his reaction. I was just going to have to say it.

"I'm pregnant." I breathed. There was no build up, just the fact, probably not the best way to approach the topic but it was straight and got the message across. He was stunned into silence for a moment, before shrugging himself away from me and getting to his feet.

"Get rid of it." He said bluntly. I can remember the burning sensation of tears bursting over my eyelashes and splashing down onto my cheeks as I looked at him, hurt that he could ever suggest that. He kept my stare, looking deadly serious. My voice barely carried.

"That's not an option." It took a few seconds for this to settle into his mind.

"Then I guess that we aren't an option. I'd like you to leave." Silence ensued. More tears fell. The engagement off and the relationship at somewhat of an end with just that conversation, it took me barely ten minutes to grab my essentials and leave.
Walking down the street, I'd never felt so alone. Even laid in the guest room at my mom's house that night, with her dog Hippy to keep me company, I felt so alone, almost like I was the only living thing for miles. In the morning, dressed and showered, I sat at the kitchen table playing with my cereal, until my mom took it off of me and told me to go get some fresh air to clear my thoughts. They didn't need clearing, not really. The initial shock of how he'd really reacted towards a baby had worn off, but the fact that he'd told me to leave over it was intensifying. Almost like a dull throb of a headache, pounding and pounding until eventually it's unbearable and you find yourself searching helplessly for a hole to crawl into.

I took mom's advice anyway, taking Hippy with me for company and something to focus on other than a spiralling downfall. Which brings me right back to the beginning.

Sitting on a bench in the middle of the carnival, everyone gathered around me to watch the fireworks crackle into the black sky. Smiles and laughter floated around, generally raising the atmosphere to intense levels.

I contemplated my future, alone, with a baby. It terrified me to the core.

Looking around I could feel my tears drying. Smiles were contagious and I found one creeping onto my face, but it was watching the fireworks intensely that helped. Because for each flash and each bang, it was slowly bringing me back to reality. I wasn't alone. I was in a crowd of hundreds of people all feeling the same thing. Serenity. Contentment.





x

[brokenxmelody]

I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, i blame it on the fireworks. It was early one morning, if my memory serves correctly I believe it was a Friday around 11 AM. The leaves had already fallen to the ground and the flowers had already wilted into black shrunken petals. The sky was grey and looked as if it should have been storming by now. I heard a noise of a truck squealing to a stop and I headed to my front porch to see what was going on.

A large moving truck was parked outside the house beside of mine and I watched as a family of three emerged from it. They looked nothing like the type of people I was used to seeing in my neighborhood. The mother wore a short pink skirt with a skimpy tank top and some heels. The father wore no shirt along with basketball shorts and his hair was long enough to fit in a pony tail. The boy looked around my age and had been wearing a black t-shirt that clung to him from sweat. His dark brown hair plastered to his forward in the front and stuck up every which way in the back. It disgusted me to look at and made me feel as if I should be taking another shower.

But then I saw his eyes. His piercing blue eyes looked up to the sky as he wiped sweat from his face. I moved away from the curtain to stop from being spotted. Yet secretly, I kind of wished to be spotted. Maybe he would lose his breath at the sight of my pale, freckled skin; or my hazel green eyes; or maybe it would be my long honey brown curls that would get to him.

"Christine dear? What are you doing?" I heard my mother ask and I was brought back to reality.

"Nothing Mother. Just looking at the new neighbors."

My mother moved towards the window to peep at the neighbors like I had done just a few moments before. "Well, I see. They are-- interesting looking. I guess I shall make them some cookies," she said distastefully and I know she too had noticed their out of place appearance.

She left the foyer to head to the kitchen and begin on their snacks and I stayed put. My feet felt planted to the floor for some reason and I couldn't get myself to stop looking at the boy. I stayed their awing at him as he helped unload the truck with his father until my mother had finished the cookies and I willingly agreed to help bring them over with her. We both fix our hair, dab at our make up, wipe off the dirt from our shoes, and flatten down our knee high skirts before leaving our house.

We stood outside the house and knocked politely on the door. There was shouting inside as to who should answer the door and a dog began to bark. The door finally opened and the boy stood before us. "Can I help you?" he asked us raising an eyebrow to the plate in my mother's hand.

"Hello, I am Lauren Wilmington and this is my daughter Christine Wilmington. We live right there and we were just here to offer you and your family this plate of cookies and welcome you to the neighborhood," my mother said smiling her fake smile and offering forward the cookies.

The boy took them and smirked. "Thanks," he said before closing the door in our face. My mother and I stood there in shock before heading to the house and my mother mumbled words I had never heard her say before.

The days went by slowly and my father stayed away at his office longer. I remember sitting outside my mother's door and listening to her cry for hours until he would come home. Then, I would sit outside my window on the roof to try and get away from the yelling. Yet I still remember every cook out and every neighborhood gathering we went to, they would always be the picture perfect couple. It confused me greatly and I soon began to resent them for the way they acted both inside the home and outside the home.

The neighbor boy eventually noticed how often I sat outside my window and would make conversation with me into the early morning hours. He grew to know me inside and out and even on days when my parents weren't yelling, I still found myself sitting on the roof outside my bedroom just wanting to talk to him.

I soon found out his name was Shawn Peters and he and his family had won the local lottery back in his hometown of Rhode Island. They decided to move into a nicer home and fell in love with the house they now occupied. He was a year older than me and had dropped out of high school. He smoked, drank, and when he wasn't on the porch talking to me he was at a party or playing guitar. I still remember the feeling I would get as I laid in my bed falling asleep to the sound of him strumming
away at the strings.

One night however, I remember better than any other. We were sitting outside just like we usually did and he asked me something I had longed to hear. "What are you doing tomorrow night?" he had asked me and I looked at him strangely before shrugging. "Wanna catch a movie?" he asked me.

I felt blood rush to my cheeks and my stomach felt like I was going to throw up; yet strangely in a good way. I nodded my head and smiled wide; fore I didn't think I would be able to mutter any words at that moment. He chuckled before waving goodnight and I went back to my bed falling asleep with a smile on my face and the image of his face in my head.

The next day however, my dream came crashing down. My parents refused to let me go anywhere with him. They said he was a 'bad kid' and not someone they wanted me to get involved with. I knew in my heart he wasn't a bad kid and if they knew him the way I did they would change their mind. But even when I had asked for him to come over to dinner one night, they refused without a second thought. I cried for hours until I finally snuck out my window to go and knock on his.

He came to the window and looked at me worried. He wiped a tear from my face and I saw anger in his eyes as I told him that I wouldn't be able to accompany him on the date tonight. He squeezed my hand and told me to come back down and meet him at his window at 10 PM. I remember laughing and begging him to tell me why but he insisted it was a surprise. I waited in my room anxious for 10 PM to roll around and watched the clock as each minute passed. Eventually my parents went to bed and 10 PM shown on the clock. I snuck back out my window and knocked on his window.

He opened it and helped me inside revealing a candle-lit room. I smiled widely and looked around. There was popcorn and some soda on the night stand, candles all over the room, some blankets and pillows on the ground, and a movie waiting to be played on the television. I looked at him amazed and he smiled timidly before lacing his fingers in mine. We watched a movie and cuddled together until 2 in the morning.

When I finally decided I had to get back to my bedroom I gave him a hug and he kissed my cheek. My heart exploded and I snuck out his window and back up the ladder to my room. Once inside, my happiness disappeared. My parents were sitting on my bed and their faces twisted with rage when I emerged into the room. They screamed at me for nearly 2 hours and I sat there blocking them out. Instead, I went over the night I had had over and over in my head. When the screaming finally stopped they came to a decision that would change my life forever. We were moving.

Everything happened all at once. The house was on sale the next day and within 3 days it had been sold. Shawn blinked away tears when I told him and held me tightly. We were to move the next day. I jump at the sound of fireworks and it hits me. I had been so upset, I forgot it was July 4th. I had been so angry with my parents I refused to go to the fireworks with them.

Shawn tilted my chin up and made me look at him. "This isn't going to change anything. This isn't the end," he told me and I nodded unsure.

He shook his head at me seeing the uncertainty in my eyes and bent down to kiss me. The second his lips touched mine my knees turns to jelly. I held on tightly to him so I wouldn't fall and he wrapped his arms around my waist. "Run away with me," he whispered.

I looked at him in shock and see that he wasn't joking. I turned away from him for a moment and looked up at the sky. The fireworks were making the sky light up in all different colors and my heart began to race. I looked at him once more before biting my lip and nodding my head.

I ran up to my room and he ran to his and we both packed our things quickly. He grabbed the keys to his car and took my hand leading my towards it. I looked back at my house once more and my eyes landed on the 'FOR SALE' sign that had been crossed out with the words 'SOLD'. Shawn squeezed my hand in reassurance and I kissed him once more before we drove off into the night.

[DreamOfLife]

*gulps* This is my first time writing for a contest... hope it isn't too bad
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I'll Be Waiting...
DreamOfLife

I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. It all happened like in a dream. In the crowded room, everyone buzzed in excitement, looking through the floor to ceiling windows. All my friends locked lips with their dates once the midnight count was up. As I had come to this party alone, I looked around uncomfortably, trying to find a friendly face that wasn’t caught up in the moment. My gaze fell on a boy not too far from me. His dark eyes met my hazel ones and with a grin he stepped towards me.

“Hi there, I’m Jordan,” he introduced himself in a warm voice.
“I’m Melanie,” I replied, smiling.

He looked as if he was about to say more but held back.

“Well happy New Years,” I said.
He sighed. “Would it be completely out of line to kiss you right now?”

I shook my head slowly. He gazed into my eyes, lightly pushing my light brown hair away from my face. He leaned in and the moment his tender lips touched mine our own fireworks ignited. Our lips moved together for a moment and I could feel the slight curve of his smile. As we parted a thousand thoughts rushed through my head. It wasn’t like me to kiss a stranger, let alone one old enough to be sporting facial hair. Oh gosh, how old is he? Wait... Does it matter?
It must have shown that I was deliberating.

“Was that a bad idea?” he asked, concerned.
I softened my expression. “Just marvelling at how short you are.”

In fact, he was quite short. He was no more than 3 inches taller than my own 5’1”. Yet it suited him, under his beige button up shirt his muscles were well defined. As I marvelled at his lack of height, the rest of his features registered. His dirty blond hair was short and spiked, the line of hair under his chin slightly red. His most beautiful feature by far were his eyes. They were a deep chestnut that would make any girl think ‘bedroom eyes’ before melting into them.

He chuckled. “Yeah, I know, but you’re shorter.”
“But I’m a girl and I still have time to grow.” I hesitated wondering if I was ever going to be even the slightest bit taller – I doubt it. “I’m sixteen after all.”
His grin fell and his voice was strained. “Sixteen?”
“Uh-uh, how old are you?” I raised my brow.
“Twenty-two,” he replied, guilt and remorse evident in his tone.
“Oh!” I gaped, he was six years my senior. As I looked at his almost pained face I knew that I didn’t care.


The next couple weeks slid by quickly. Jordan and I had not parted as we should have. We continued talking via msn and the phone while also ‘hanging out’ a few times. The two of us had a multitude of things in common. I adored his taste in music. Our views on so many things were the same; I couldn’t believe it. He wasn’t afraid of commitment either. The only flaw I could point out in this next-to-perfect-for-me-man was that he smoked. This didn’t concern me. He gave up his habit cold turkey for the ‘smoking nazi,’ as he called me.


“You know what I thought the first time I saw you?” Jordan asked as we walked around on a pleasantly calm day. “I thought you were the most beautiful girl I had ever seen.”
“Ahww” was all I could think to say. He smiled and kissed my hair. “You know, you’re pretty good looking yourself.” I grinned as I remembered my friends’ words. “Even my unbiased friends think you’re hot.”
“I’m not hot, I’m me. I’ll admit I’m good looking but that’s all.”
“If you can call me beautiful, you’re hot,” I challenged.
He chuckled. “Our kids would be gorgeous,” He pondered with a smile. “Wait, I mean... Please don’t be freaked out by that!” Jordan began backtracking.
“No, hun, no, it’s ok,” I assured holding back a laugh.

We continued talking and walking along fingers laced, our arms around each other, pausing every few minutes for kisses.

“Ask me anything, I’m an open book.” He invited me to question him again.
“Alright,” I said, finding one for the first time. “What are we?”
He sighed, “The one question I didn’t want you to ask. Well I want you. I care for you a lot more than I’ve ever felt for anyone really. For me at least, I’m seeing you exclusively,” he paused for confirmation on my part. I nodded, urging him to continue. “But attaching girlfriend and boyfriend to us doesn’t really work. I don’t know; it’s wrong to tie you down to me when you’re so young and still in high school. I don’t want you to miss out on anything and I don’t know how this can go on.” My awed expression broke at the last part. “Yet at the same time, I don’t want to loose you,” he looked at my face with a mirrored hopelessness.
“For right now, I’m not going anywhere.”

We embraced again, more passionately than ever, both of us clinging to each other in mutual desperation. Fireworks ignited again as we touched. My heavy breathing had him pull away.

“Melanie, if I have to wait for you I will.” I had never trusted a boy so thoroughly in this short of time before, but I believed him. We sat on a secluded bench in the little forest we ventured into, his arm never leaving its place around my waist.
“You know what my dream is?” he asked as he kissed the nap of my neck.
“No, what?” I asked, blissfully distracted.
“To build my own house; log cabin style, right on the lake.” He grinned. “I know I’m a hick but I love nature.”
“Wow, that’s an amazing dream,” and I meant it.
“I think so. What do you want?”
“Do you want me to have a say in it?” I was truly surprised.
“Only if you do.” He kissed my hair and looked down at our entwining fingers.
“This is so Notebook,” I commented in spite of how sweet this all was. “Alright I want a big porch that wraps around the whole house.” I quoted.
He laughed. “Really Mel, what do you want?”
I thought about it. “A fireplace, an island kitchen counter and a view of the water from the bedroom window – no balcony.”
“Mmm that sounds perfect, you’ve got a deal.” He squeezed me.


The following week he picked me up on my work break and after getting some food in me, we chatted in his truck. He changed the song playing to one I was unfamiliar with. I adored it. He called it ‘This Year’s Love’ by David Grey. The lyrics spilled into my heart. This year’s love had better last...

“So we’ve been together what, 3 weeks?” he was pondering aloud. I nodded and he looked at me in glee. “I’m not sure, but I think the four letter word is on its way.” I beamed; I knew he cared, but not this much. “You know what I’m talking about?”
“Of course I do, and I have no arguments.” With that followed another union of our lips.


“I know who you’re with. Get in the car. Now.” My mother’s voice came from my cell moments after she left me at the mall later that same day.

Snapping it closed, I glanced at Jordan, horror evident in my eyes. My mom knew of him but only that we talked. Yet she didn’t know about us, nor did she approve in the least of older guys. He understood quickly. This was it. We’ve been found out. I would be grounded and punished more than I cared to imagine. But worst of all, I wouldn’t be able to see him anymore.

“I’m sorry,” I told him as I began to walk away. He grabbed my wrist.
“No, I’m sorry. It’s my fault, I shouldn’t have let this happen,” the remorse in his voice was tearing at my heart.
“Jordan, no, I should have found a better way to handle this. I was stupid, and foolish, and” I paused to take a breath. “I’m really going to miss you.”
“I’m going to miss you too, more than you know.” He touched my cheek. “We may not be able to do this now, but I can wait. Babe, the day you turn 18,” he hesitated. “April 21st, right?” My heart swelled, I had only mentioned my birthday once in passing the day we met. I nodded feebly. “What time?”
“Four in the morning.” I replied, slightly thrown off.
He started at the beginning again. “For the next two years, you don’t have to worry about me getting serious with anyone. I will wait. At 4am on April 21st I’m going to call you. Melanie, the day you turn 18, you’re mine.”
He pushed a strand of hair away from my face and lightly pressed his lips to mine. Despite everything, despite time, I knew he meant every word.

[xiahzeuni]

Dear Users,

Please note the change in the deadline. It has been moved to the 24th so that we have time to put up a poll for everybody to vote on

Hopefully you've been working ahead and this change won't cause too much trouble.

xx
The Staff

[rawr]

Note: My first/maybe last One-Shot. Novels are more of my thing
o0o0o0o0

Those Fireworks
by cue-rawr

o0o0o0o0o0

I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. What else would possess me to kiss Landon Vaughn in the middle of the street? It didn't matter that the small town's council had sprinkled lights all over the trees that surrounded the street, creating a soothing setting under the New Year's Eve dark sky. It also didn't matter that pretty boy had grabbed me first either, gently cradling my head in his hands. It mattered that I kissed him back and for that, I solely blamed the fireworks.

Those fireworks had signaled the start of the New Year, cheers to be lifted into the air, and couples to start searching for their significant other to perform the tradition. Lights exploded in the sky and somehow spread throughout my body as his lips brushed over mine and as his big hands pulled me closer. Is this why most of the girls flock to him? Is this why they throw themselves into his arms?

Surely, they were over exaggerating. Feeling a bit overly curious, I leaned into him and responded to his lips, simply experimenting. What made Landon Vaughn the most sought after boy in this town? What made girls come back after just one taste? Why, in my family's opinion, was he so terribly forbidden?

Landon stole the fireworks out of the sky and used it in his touch, making sparks of electricity jump between us. I wasn't the only one who felt it; I wasn't the only one who was in awe. I pulled away in mid-kiss, stupidly looking at his hands and his lips as if it possessed some great unknown power. My eyes were wide as were his, yet he looked back at me calmly. Landon pushed the hair out of my eyes, leaning down once more, and everything exploded.

Fireworks felt during a kiss? That was a line in a romance novel not a feeling in reality. Sparks and electricity felt between two people? That was a clichéd fairytale trapped only in books. It was things exaggerated, it wasn't real. Was it? What if I wanted to escape from everything real?

He pulled away first and took a small step back, surprise on his face as he studied me carefully. His chest was heaving slightly, out of breath. Landon reached out to catch a strand of hair taken captive by the wind and tucked it behind my ear with a gentle touch.

"Hey Juliet."

I laughed at his choice of name, smiling up at the supposed enemy, "hey Romeo."

Suddenly, the drumming in my heart was a little too loud and Landon Vaughn was a little too close. I realized what we've just done. The wheels in my fogged brain started turning and words from my parents turned into a drawn out chant.

"Wait!" Landon caught my arm when I turned away. "Sorry," he added hastily when I looked up at him and he let his arm fall to the side, "they closed the street for the carnival. Let me win you something, a big bear or a stuffed animal."

"I can't."

"It's New Years, Paige," he persuaded, "our parents are out of town. I don't expect anything in return," he gave his infamous grin, "and you get to go home with a present. No harm, no foul."

We looked up as the street was showered with blue lights, making my hands and lips tingle, "did you feel the fireworks?"

My head whirled to him as he said this. A line like that coming from Landon wasn't an everyday thing. He chuckled at my bewildered expression. I think my parents might have brainwashed me. The Vaughn's couldn't be as dim and ignorant as they say.

"Give me a chance then," he said as the sky exploded with orange lights.

I blamed the fireworks.

Later that night I found myself sitting on the beach next to Landon, a huge brown teddy bear in my arms as promised. Landon grinned boyishly when I thanked him again for the present. I gave him a chance. I took a risk and regret was far from my mind.

"So Juliet, tomorrow, same time and place?" Landon questioned, pulling us down so our backs were on the sand.

I grinned at our new names, rewarding him with a brave kiss on his cheek, "I'll be on my balcony at seven."

[blackcatluvr13]

My first time writing too...for a contest anyhow.

________________________________________________


I suppose it all began with the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. The atmosphere was so thick with tension it was almost palpable, I could almost taste it. Tension had a thick taste, like syrup almost. I was sitting next to the one guy I hated the most, the one that always picked on me, made me go home crying. Our parents were best friends. Isn't that always how it goes? The guy you hate turns out to be your parents long-lost best friend's son? No? Well then, it must've been just me.

Another thing: I absolutely hate fireworks. I can't stand them. Sure, the different colors were beautiful, and the array of designs in the sky were spectacular, mesmerizing, but the noise. I hated the noise. This was just great. My parents stuck me with my worst enemy. They knew I hated fireworks, so why'd they stick me with the one guy on earth I hated more? Oh, right, they didn't know I hated him. We had to sit right next to each other, packed in like sardines. My back was straight as a board, my eyes never wavering from the back of some guys head. I didn't know what he was doing. Most likely the same. I couldn't help it. I flicked my gaze over at him, to see him staring at me oddly.

Wait a minute. Staring at me?! Why was he staring at me? Because I was sitting so strangely? Perhaps. But he was just staring. He wasn't moving, he was just staring at me. It was freaking me out a little. Why was he not saying anything? Why was he just sitting there staring at me? Why didn't he pick on me like he normally did? Could he hear my thoughts? All these questions ran through my head, and yet I had no answer for any of them. Finally I asked,
"Why do you keep staring at me?!" That got him out of his reverie. Shaking his head he replied nastily,
"No reason. I thought I saw a bug crap on you or something. It was very weird. You're weird."

I sighed. Does he have to be so annoying?
"Do you have to be so annoying, Kris?" I snapped at him.
He actually looked genuinely hurt for a moment, but then it was covered back up and he replied,
"Do you have to be such a bitch, Andrea?"
That shut me up. I got up and started walking away. I knew the fireworks would start soon, and that would not be a good thing. Kristopher followed me, like a dog almost. I didn't say anything to him. It was then I heard the boom of the first explosion of the fireworks being lit into the sky. Fireworks were like a phobia for me. When I heard the sound, I froze in my tracks. Why I didn't start running, I have no clue. Kristopher almost ran into me, but stopped just in time. He knew something was wrong, but didn't know what. If he didn't get me out of there soon, I would be a blubbering idiot.

Kris couldn't figure out what was wrong. And I, well, became a sorry mess. I started crying because the noise hurt my ears and I couldn't talk. It was too much for me. I shook my head whenever he would ask a question. He then asked the right question.
"Are you afraid of the fireworks?"
I started sobbing, and he dragged me to his car. He put me in it and drove me to my house, taking me inside and he sat me on the couch. I curled up, staring at the wall. He muttered,
"You know I never really wanted you to feel bad, right?"
"Feel bad about what? My fear of fireworks?" I questioned.
"No, I never meant to make you feel bad when I picked on you. I didn't mean it."
I looked over to him, surprised. This kid, my supposed arch enemy, liked me?! No way.

I could feel him getting closer to me, but I was miles away, in my own little bubble, thinking about this. This was new. The whole time I had known this kid, he had picked on me. Teased me. But now it all made sense. He teased me because he liked me. Not to make me feel bad.
I felt lips on mine, and I responded automatically by closing my eyes and kissing him back.

Like I said before, I suppose it all started with the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks.

__________________________________________

I don't think it's too bad for a first-time contest writer! =D

[StephanieLauren]

I suppose it all began with the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. There was a romantic wave pulsating in the air that night, triggered by the site of the thousands of twinkling stars that dotted the night's sky. There was a warm breeze that hugged my skin and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore added to the mood. I was surrounded by love struck couples who were gazing at the stars, their feet planted in the beach sand and their arms wrapped around each other in a tight embrace. Naturally I felt the urge to be intimate with someone like those around me. I longed for a hand to hold, an arm to caress me, and someone to point out the constellations above. But, it was the fireworks above everything that set off the desire in my heart to be with someone. After the third firework shot into the air, I felt my hand reach over and grab Adam's.
I felt the immediate tingling sensation behind my belly button and that's when I knew I saw Adam as more than a friend. He weaved his fingers through mine and I tightened my grip. Could it be possible that he felt the same? I glanced up at him and saw that he was staring straight ahead into the sky, absorbed by the intensity of the fireworks. His face was emotionless. I couldn't tell if he was glad that we were holding hands, or annoyed or couldn't care less. My heart sank in disappointment. Had I just ruined our friendship by letting the night air get the best of me?
But, then something magical happened. His head turned towards me and his lips curved into a smile. Our gaze met and my heart fluttered. He pulled me towards him and I wrapped my arms around his body. Never in my life I felt this strongly about another person. The sound of my heart beating in my chest matched the one of the fireworks exploding in the night sky. Had I really been this blind all of my life? The person whom I loved was always in front of me, but I had never realized until now?
Suddenly, I felt my body being pushed away and my hand fell limply to my side. Baffled, I looked up at Adam to find that he was back to looking straight ahead into the sky, his arms folded neatly across his chest. The feelings of love and passion that had just flowed through my veins were replaced by ones of annoyance and regret. The connection between Adam and I had disappeared as quickly as the fireworks that faded into the darkness of the night.
Embarrassed by my actions, I took a step back and lowered by head. I watched as the couples around me continued to share the feelings of love and I was envious of them all. I stared at Adam's back and was hoping that the fireworks would never come to an end so I could avoid the awkwardness of explaining my actions. Apparently he did not feel the same as I had. But how could we return as friends after I felt so strongly like I did? Is it possible to go back to only seeing him as friend after wanting to be so much more?
Like all good things, the fireworks ended. Pairs of lips all around me touched the ones they loved as the finale painted the night's sky. Adam turned around to face me and I could feel my cheeks burn with humiliation. He shoved his hands in his pockets and I suddenly became very interested in my flip flops. We both opened our mouths at the same time.
"I'm sorry-", we said in unison.
We shared an awkward laugh and then Adam motioned for me to go first.
"I'm sorry for taking your hand. I just go lost in the moment. I shouldn't have done that."
Adam's face softened and he inched closer to me. "Don't apologize." He came even more close, only a few inches away from my face. "I wasn't sure if you were holding my hand out of friendship or as something more. I was hoping you meant more, but at the thought of you not feeling the same as I did scared me, so I let go. So, don't appo-"
I leaned forward and our lips touched. Fireworks erupted in my chest and unlike the ones that I had just watched, I hoped that they would never end.

[xiahzeuni]

One summer night
By truebluefriendsforever (Eunice)

---

I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks. Why else would I have been there with Wesley Turnpike? Sheesh. Wesley Turnpike of all people.

Wait. I’m getting ahead of myself. It actually really began with my best friend’s brilliant plan to go to the lake.


“Jamie. We have to go. I mean, everybody is going to be there,” Dee nagged, tugging on my sleeves. I jerked her off, scowling. Delilah knew that I would be easily persuaded. She always had her way.

“Screw you, Dee,” I snapped.

“Please? I’m dying for company. I’ve only seen you the entire summer. I need to get out there and mingle!” Dee said, blinking her big brown eyes pleadingly. I pushed her head away.

“Why do you need me to go with you, if you want to meet other people?” I grumbled. Dee rolled her eyes. I just turned and stomped into my house, with Dee skipping in behind me. “Why can’t we just do the usual and hang out in my hot tub and watch the fireworks?”

“Because!” Delilah cried exasperatedly. “It’s Fourth of July! We need to get out there and meet some people!”

“By people you mean guys,” I asked raising my eyebrows. It actually wasn’t a question, more of a statement. I bounded on my bed, watching Dee slid on my beanbag chair.

“Naturally,” Dee said easily. “So we’re going, okay?” I merely growled at her. I hated being there with a large crowd. I hated the fake greetings: “Oh my god. You are just so tan!”, “Wow Jamie! You got so much thinner!” or “I just love your halter top. It’s just so cute on you!” I hated the vendors who stared at you until you felt guilty enough to buy something. I hated the little children running around screaming. I hated the stupid couples making out. But more than anything, I hated the people I was bound to meet there, including Wesley Turnpike.


It took forever to usher Dee out of my house. I had to promise her about 4186 times that I would not ditch her at night. I stomped around searching for something to wear. I guess if I’m going, I might as well look sexy. That was true until my mom fluttered into my room with a wide smile on her face. It had always been her dream for me to be like her, a social climber, or whatever you call those people who are obsessed with knowing everybody. She had been the most popular girl at her school. And no matter how many times I reminded her that she grew up in the country, where things were quaint and simple, she refused to believe that my high school was different. I saw that she hid something bulky behind her back, and instantly, I became suspicious.

“What, Mom,” I grunted.

“Dah-ling! You’re finally becoming social, aren’t you? I’m so proud of you!” Mom actually looked a bit pink near the eyes. Get a grip Mom. I felt my eyes roll as I watched her. “Why don’t you wear this?” And out came a pink summer dress with ruffles. I gagged.

“Mom, you can’t be serious,” I choked. I started laughing, hoping that my mom was joking. I saw that she was not, and I squeezed my eyes shut trying to ward of my laughter. She pleaded with her eyes and puckered lips.

“Ugh, Mom, grow up,” I grumbled. “No way in the world am I going to wear that.”

But soon enough, there it was, sitting on my bed, just waiting for me to get dressed. Mom had pulled her “poor little me, a daughter who does not love me” show. Ever since my dad died, I’ve been a sucker for Mom’s little act.

With a sigh, I decided to remain in my best outfit, namely my boxer shorts and a tank top, for as long as possible. I trudged down to the backyard, to say goodbye to my hot tub. I rolled my eyes to the sky, regretting all the scrubbing I had done yesterday in preparation for Fourth of July. I growled at the spotless sky, feeling self-pity and self-hatred for being such a big pushover.

“Hey, you!” a familiar voice called out to me. I whirled around, annoyance still clearly painted on my face. I looked up at my next-door neighbor. My irritation inflated, as if that was possible.

“What do you want, Wesley,” I said scornfully.

“I was just wondering if you and your friend are going to be in the hot tub today, like last year and the year before and the year before that.” He grinned at me.

“What’s it got to you?” I asked less spitefully, more shocked. I was surprised at his observant character; my anger waned with my increased nervousness as I waited for his answer. Has he been watching me? Did he want me to be in the hot tub? Did he want to join? Could it be that he…no…no…maybe…yes? Have I been completely clueless?

“It’s just not a sight I want to see again. So if you guys are going to do so, I’m going to the lake,” he said laughing to himself. I began to feel the self-hate bubbling in me as I realized that the misunderstanding was due to the tiny part of me that was hopeful, hopeful that he would like me. Dick. I can’t believe for a second I thought…agh! Another reason why I do not want to go to the lake.

If it had been five years ago, back when I first met him, I would have settled for sticking out my tongue at him. Back then, I had a tiny crush on him, and I had hoped that my cuteness would get him to like me too. But now with five more years worth of wisdom in me, I easily stuck out my middle finger, wagging it in his face. He broke into a fit of laughter, as if he was mocking my immaturity.

Dick.


Unfortunately for me, with Mom clamoring after us to give us a ride, I could not even bring another set of clothes. She nattered about how “cute” I looked, and every time she stared at me with swimming eyes, I winced out of embarrassment and disgust.

When Delilah climbed into the car, she choked on the smoothie she was drinking. I nearly socked Dee in the face, as she snuffled into her towel, shaking in fits of laughter. I fidgeted nervously the entire ride, worrying about the reactions of others. And as soon as Mom’s car disappeared from my sight, I sprinted to the “Moon River Café” bathroom, hoping desperately that nobody would recognize me. Dee bounced in after me chortling.

But with Dee’s help, I managed to remove all the ruffles and lace off the dress, making myself look somewhat decent. Of course, I couldn’t pass for anything sexy, really. Fortunately—or not so fortunately, I realized that there was nobody to look good for anyway. I shrugged off the feeling of emptiness that was seeping in. Shaking my head, I restored my nonchalance on my face.

“Come on, Jamie! Look over there! College boys,” Dee grinned, looking wildly delighted, fanatic even. I rolled my eyes and let Dee drag me into the pit of doom. I was not really in the mood for a rejection or mockery. I fingered the hem of the dress, swearing silently at my quaint, naïve mom.

As we got closer, however, I realized that they were not college boys; rather, they were senior boys, meaning Wesley was with them. I came to an abrupt stop and jerked Dee’s hands away. Dee swiveled around with wide eyes.

“What!” Dee cried in surprise. I shook my head with disgust. They go to our school for pity sakes. How can you not know them?

“Those are not college boys. They are seniors!”

“I’m not stupid, Jamie! I was going toward them!” Delilah pointed at another throng of boys throwing Nerf balls around. Oh.

“Yo, Jamie! Nice dress!” Kevin, one of Wesley’s good friends, called out. Wesley quickly looked up at my face and hit Kevin really hard on his arm and said something angrily.

“Hi Kevin!” Dee sang. She had never understood my animosity toward Wesley and his friends. They are so cute! She had once said to me. Back then, I had merely laughed at how oblivious she was. But now as she turned her attention to Wesley and Co., I couldn’t help but seethe at her stupidity.

For the past two years in high school with Wesley, it was always difficult to hang out with his friends. Whenever his friends saw me, they’d grin at Wesley. I’ve always thought that Wesley, knowing about my little crush, told his friends about me. He did always seem to hate it when I was around his friends. His complacent, mocking smile would turn nervous and anxious, even as he acted more tauntingly to me. I tried to ignore his mean comments, and I truly hated him at times. But it was hard to hate him completely. Sure, it had been just a crush back when I was in 5th grade. But secretly, I’ve always wanted his approval. I’ve always wanted him to care, so I could turn him down and laugh in his face. It was just my pride playing its part; I’ve always hated that I had a crush on him and that he never did.

I grimaced as I watched Kevin and Dee flirt with each other. In the end, I knew I was going to watch the fireworks by myself. Oh, joy. I settled down on the ground, staring blankly at the sparkling water. Wesley’s other friends were laughing loudly. I noticed that they were moving gradually toward a clan of girls they had been eyeing the whole time.

“Want to go for a walk?” I looked up startled, to see Wesley’s slightly mocking face. I scrutinized him, wondering what the hell he was up to. But in the end, I shrugged and got up. I gave him a sideways glare as he gave me a knowing smirk.

“Oops,” I muttered as I tripped on an embedded rock. I lurched forward before Wesley caught my arm. Embarrassed at my clumsiness, I blushed and brushed his hand off my arm. He was smiling. We stopped in front of a bench and sat down. There were less people at this end of the lake, well less teenagers. There were old couples and parents who had sent their kids away for summer camp. We silently looked out to the lake. An old couple nearby snuggled together. For all those years, they had been together. Ah, the power of love. And suddenly, a strong desire to be in his arms erupted in me.

“Jamie,” he said softly, breaking the silence. I didn’t answer. I saw him looking at me from the corner of my eyes. He smiled. Surprisingly, it was neither taunting nor sarcastic. “Jamie. Come on, I want to tell you something.”

I nodded. He put his hand on my hands that were resting on my lap. His one hand was big enough to cover both of my hands. I felt a blush creeping on to my cheeks. My fingers wiggled against the restraint of his hand. He ignored my struggle and took a deep breath.

“Listen, Jamie. I love you. I loved you all along. I still love you. And I always will,” Wesley said. I turned to glare at him. How dare he make fun of me for liking him before. Just then, fireworks began to light up the sky; the peaceful night had begun to erupt with colors. With every crackle, the night sky lit up, lighting up Wesley’s hazel eyes. And in those eyes, I saw sincerity and well, love.

And for a second, I imagined slapping his hand away, pointing a finger at him, laughing at him and finally rejecting him. But that was just for a second. His eyes, dancing with the beautiful light, held my heart, and through his eyes, I could finally see that all these years, I had loved him too. I had only thought I hated him.

And we sat there, staring into each others’ eyes. It wasn’t a hug. It wasn’t a kiss. But it was enough. It was all we needed.

[youaremysunshine]

Just an extra warning! The deadline is July 24th (two days away!) So get your entries in as quickly as you can, because it's also the day we post up the poll!

Thank yooou!

[mixtapes__]

here goes nothing. (:
_________________________________________________


I suppose it all began because of the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks.


Canada Day, 2008
The sky was dark. The stage lights were blinding. The crowd was screaming. The beach balls were spinning. The music was deafening.

And there she was, advancing towards me, a smile on her lips. She made her way through the crowd, her eyes on me, and my eyes on her, the whole time. She glided around people, around the moshpit even, seemingly without touching anyone, and came to a stop a few feet in front of my drunken, sweat-covered self.

"If I had of known she'd been here, I wouldn't have drunken so much," the thought ran through my mind like wildfire.

Of course, I knew she was coming. A girl like her wouldn't miss this in a lifetime. And besides, I would've had the same amount of alcohol anyways. It didn't matter. She didn't matter.

Except she did.

"Hey Tyler," she greeted, that smile still on her lips.

"Hey Maddie," I replied (or rather slurred).

"Tyler, I just want you to know that I miss you," Maddie said, taking a step closer.

"Yeah, I miss you- wait, what?" Even in my drunken state, I understood that one.
What was she playing at?

"I miss you, honey," she cooed, taking another step closer. God, I hate that voice of hers.

I stared at her, her and her beautiful figure, her long dark hair, her sparkling emerald eyes, her long legs; man, I wanted her...

She took another step closer (she was right in front of me - within arms' reach) and I snapped out of my reverie, scowling, "Do you know what you've put me through, Maddie? You cheated on me! I mean-"

She took ahold of my jacket and pleaded, "I know, I know, I'm sorry. Please, just another chance? One last chance?"

"No, you've done enough harm," I retorted and spinning on my heels, I turned towards the park entrance and stalked away, leaving her like she had left me, oh so long ago...


"C'mon Tyler, get up already."

"Five more minutes, mum..." I yawned.

"I'm not your mom, you twit." Laughter. "Now get up."

I opened my eyes and groaned at who I saw, "Do you know what time it is?"

"Yeah, it's 9 pm, now move it!"

I groaned yet again, "Ethan, bugger off, would you? I told you I was busy all night."

He scoffed, "Yeah, you look real busy, lazy bloke."

I sat up in bed and rubbed the sleep from my eyes. I looked around the room, realizing that all the guys were there. At seeing them all piled into my closet-like room I sighed, pulled myself out of bed and made my way to the beaten down wardrobe in the corner. I searched the drawers and grabbed a pair of jeans, a t-shirt and a jacket and quickly threw them on. I nodded to the guys and we left my house, headed for the community park.

Tonight, there was a going to be a handful of bands playing and a fireworks display, all in honour of Canada Day. I wasn't too keen on going though, and the guys knew that beforehand. That's probably why they're bringing you there, I thought to myself. It was like them to do this kind of thing.

As we sneaked into the park behind the main stage that had been set up, I could tell that the festivities had already started. The boys went their separate ways as I stood there, looking around.

The sky was dark. The stage lights were blinding. The crowd was screaming. The beach balls were spinning. The music was deafening.

And there she was, advancing towards me, a smile on her lips. She made her way through the crowd, her eyes on me, and my eyes on her, the whole time. She glided around people, around the moshpit even, without touching anyone, and came to a stop a few feet in front of me. It was déjà vu.

"Hey Tyler," she greeted, that smile still on her lips.

"Hey Maddie," I replied stonily.

"How've you been?"

"Alright, I suppose," I replied in the same tone as before.

"Tyler, I just want you to know that I miss you," Maddie said, taking a step closer.

I was at a loss for words.

"I miss you, honey," she cooed, trying again and taking another step closer. God, I hate that voice of hers.

I stared at her, her and her beautiful figure, her long dark hair, her sparkling emerald eyes, her long legs; man, I wanted her...

She took another step closer (she was right in front of me - within arms' reach) and I snapped out of my reverie, scowling, "Do you know what you've put me through, Maddie?"

She took ahold of my jacket and pleaded, "I know, I know, I'm sorry. Please, just another chance? One last -"

Her words were cut off by the sounds of fireworks, screams and laughter. I tore my eyes away from her to look up at the no longer dark sky, now lit by thousands of sparkling embers of every colour imaginable. There was even a green that matched her eyes...

I shook my head and looked down, right at her. She was looking up at the fireworks, her dark, curly hair swaying in the slight breeze, her lips once again lifted into a smile and her hands still holding onto my jacket.

At that moment, I no longer knew what was what or who was who. All I knew was that I wanted this girl, this precious girl, in my arms forever. I cupped her face in my hands and leaning towards her, grazed my lips against hers.

Maybe it wasn't exactly déjà vu, after all.

[thelovinspoonful]

True story. Kinda. (Hah, Vanessa, you know what I'm talking about.)

Until Further Notice

I suppose it all began with the atmosphere; but really, I blame it on the fireworks.

Or, rather, the lack of fireworks.

Tradition firmly states that the Fourth of July simply is not, cannot be, the Fourth of July without them. I would usually go on to include the Kelley's barbeque and a minimum of three hours worth of sparklers, smoke bombs, and other relatively 'safe' fireworks, but this Fourth of July there were none of those either. In fact, this Fourth of July was the first time in eight years that I missed the barbeque, the first time in a decade that I wasn't at home, and the very first time I can ever recall missing the fireworks, regardless of location.

That said, I suppose I could also call into blame Good Fishing – the outdoor company I work for – and my idiot supervisor, who scheduled me for the late shift even though I made it excessively clear that missing the fireworks was not an option.

The evening started to fall apart when I snuck out on my break, hoping to catch the end of the Kansas City firework display, only to realize that I had, in fact, missed it and also that the doors had locked behind me. After a call to security – and thank God for cell phones – and a somewhat awkward round of questioning that left the night watchman looking at me as if I were slightly unbalanced, I was allowed to finish out my shift, answering phone calls that were both more and more frustrating and from progressively drunker customers. Which, now that I think about it, may have been a direct correlation.

It was the longest three hours of my life.

I'm sure you can imagine my dismay upon finally arriving at home, seriously pissed off, only to find ten cars parked along the curb in front of my house – and the next door neighbors'. Thank goodness I insisted on regular house cleaning. At least I hadn't missed the party my male roommate hadn't bothered to tell me we were hosting.

When I finally made it inside – I'd had to park at the house two doors down – I stepped over a waylaid beer can only to stub my pinky toe on the rearranged furniture in the surprisingly dark front room. The bad news was that it wasn't a surprise party. The good news was that my cursing didn't wake any of the boys passed out on the couches or the floor. And also that I didn't break my ankle on any of the beer cans that had – not surprisingly – been tossed on the floor as I hopped madly around on one foot. By the time I actually made it through the living room, I was seriously in need of either a beer or a cigarette. Maybe both. All things considered, I'm surprised I wasn't in need of something stronger.

A refrigerator check confirmed that all things alcoholic in the house had already been consumed – including those that were mine, which was just another check on the list – so I opted for option two. Of course, as I pushed the sliding blinds back so I could get out the patio door, they went crashing to the living room floor. I shrieked, and as I stood there, dumbly looking back and forth between the blind-turner I still held in my hand and the blinds on the floor, a boy I didn't know jumped up off the dining room couch, apparently roused from whatever state of alcohol induced unconsciousness he'd been in.

"Who are you and what do you think you're doing?" he asked, rather accusingly.

"I live here," I growled, waving the blind-turner at him menacingly.

He held up his hands in an "I swear, I didn't do it!" kind of way.

The anger that had fueled me all day long suddenly wooshed out of me, and in a matter of not even seconds, I went from seriously pissed off girl to wavering on the edge of tears. "And I just want to have a cigarette."

He looked flabbergasted for a moment, then the his body language and the look in his eyes softened. He extended his hand to me, and simply said, "Chase."

I sniffled. "Zoe."

He slung an arm around my shoulders and opened the door for me. "It can't be as bad as all that," he said, ushering me over the crashed blinds and through the door. "Let's see about your cigarette, and you can tell me all about it."

Once we'd settled ourselves on the steps of the deck, he leaned over to light my cigarette for me. It struck me then, how very blue his eyes were, and as he lit his own, the fact that I couldn't have found a better looking random guy to play Prince Charming if I'd actually tried, rather than been ambushed.

"So then," he said, "why has your night been so awful?"

"I missed the fireworks."

"You missed the fireworks?" he said, eyeing me carefully. Clearly he didn't understand the distress that this had caused. "So, you went to a party and missed the fireworks. Surely something else happened to make you so –" he trailed off for a moment at the look I gave him. "Upset," he finished carefully.

"That's just it," I huffed. "There was no party!"

"There wasn't a party?"

"No! I've been at work since two o'clock this afternoon!"

"You mean you've been at work all day?"

Now he seemed to be getting it. I nodded.

"And you didn't go anywhere afterwards?"

I shook my head no. "Where would I have gone? It was after eleven by the time I got off. When I pulled up and saw all the cars – I had to park two houses down by the way – I thought I could at least catch the end of the festivities here, but –"

"But we'd already called it quits," he finished for me, sounding rather morose at the thought. "Well, that won't do. What do you want to do?"

"I'm sorry, you lost me."

Chase grinned. "It's not right, to not celebrate the Fourth of July. What do you want to do?"

"I… you know, I hadn't thought about it."

We ended up at a twenty-four hour diner, where we met a harassed looking mother in the parking lot with an armful of extra sparklers she was going to throw out. Chase looked at the sparklers, then at me, and within moments, he was the proud owner of half a dozen boxes of standard red, blue, and green sparklers. He presented them to me with a flourish, ushered me into the car, and when we returned to the house, he proceeded to help me use each and every last one of them – despite the fact that it was pushing three in the morning and the mosquitoes were out full force.

When I woke up the next afternoon, the first thing I noticed was that there were no mystery boys in my home. The second thing I noticed was that all the beer cans that had littered the floor were also gone. Even the furniture had been returned to its correct place.

It was at that point I started to worry if I had dreamed the whole thing up – Jacob had never been so thorough in after-party cleaning. In fact, there'd never been an after-party cleaning that he'd willingly participated in. I usually had to coerce him into it with not-so-veiled threats of bodily harm.

Upon moving to the dining room – which we used as a second living room, since we owned no table – I was relieved to see the blinds in a heap on the floor and the blind turner on the coffee table, where I'd left it after brandishing it in Chase's face. But still, had that part even happened? For all I knew, I just had a really, really nice dream after accidentally yanking the blinds down.

It was only when I reached the kitchen that my fears were relieved. There, in a pile on the counter, were six empty boxes of sparklers. A piece of paper caught my eye, and I smiled at the hastily scribbled note on the back of a Ziggie's receipt.

"Blame it on the fireworks if you want, but I think it's a sign."

His chicken scratch was followed with a – thankfully – more legible number.

And I have a date next week. He may be right – we'll see – but until further notice, I'm blaming it on the fireworks.