KOTLC VERY Short Story

Awkward Beginnings

Sophie's match list had finally arrived! She had promised Fitz that they'd open them together, but her anticipation was getting the best of her. Fitz. FITZ! She transmitted. Sophie? As his crisp, accented voice filled her head, it seemed to sooth her mind. I'm on my way. He transmitted back to her. What's taking you so long? Sophie inquired. My list just arrived, I've been waiting. I can't wait to open it with you. Sophie's heart fluttered. She wanted nothing more than to have Fitz's name on her list. Fitzroy Avery Vacker. Even his name was perfect. She stared down and traced her cognate ring with her finger.

Fitz materialized in front of her with Grizel as she was in her dream-land. They were in their favorite spot under the Panakes tree. Everything was so perfect for the occasion. His eyes drifted to her face and flashed her his best movie-star smile.

"Are you ready?" She asked. He replied, "I've never been more ready in my life." With that, Sophie's heart was doing all sorts of flips that she didn't even know was possible. Her finger touched the thin envelope and gently tore it open. Somehow, Fitz managed to open it perfectly, just as fast, that looked like it could be resealed again.

Sophie and Fitz excitedly scanned their list and said simultaneously, "You're on my list!" Fitz held Sophie in a close embrace and said, "You're my first one." His eyes darted to her lips and leaned in closer to her. Sophie thought this could be the moment where they actually-- "Wait, Keefe filled out his matchmaking list?" His eyes suddenly went on Sophie's match list where Keefe took the first spot. "I'm not your number one?" Sophie looked up at Fitz and saw hurt in his eyes and a hint of jealousy. "Come on, Fitz," Sophie started. "We're both on each other's list, that's what matters." Fitz nodded, but his expression didn't change. "Yeah, but don't you think Keefe should've mentioned it?" Sophie stiffened. "It's really not that important. I'm sure it's awkward enough filling them out, yet alone saying to all your friends 'Oh, by the way everyone, I completed my matchmaking lists!!'" Sophie said. "Oh, so you're defending him now?" Fitz argued. "I'm not doing anything! Fitz, do we have to do this now?" Sophie replied back. Fitz sighed. "What is this about?" Sophie asked Fitz. Keefe and Fitz are best friends, but lately, they've been acting like enemies. Fitz lowered his gaze and suddenly found his shoes to be very interesting. "Sophie, please tell me honestly," Fitz whispered. He stared back up at Sophie. "Is there anything going on between you and Keefe?" Sophie's heart pounded. No, of course there's nothing going on.. or is there? She can't possibly like Keefe, she's in love with Fitz. But her heart was telling her differently. "No, Fitz. I do not like Keefe if that's what you're asking," Sophie whispered back to him. But there was something about that topic that made her want to run away and hide. She didn't like Keefe, she couldn't like Keefe. But yet her mind drifted off to a time earlier that week...