A Perfect Day for Falling

Candles & Moonlight

Duncan POV:

I feel like I have to impress Princess.

The thought scares me, as I have never had to impress someone before. I had always looked down on everyone else, not caring what life threw at me, and not caring what I threw back.

Tonight, I care.

My mother had planned for an occasion such as this, and I find a new suit in my suitcase, complete with the whole ordeal: a tie, cuffs, and just all around fancy. I want to try to style my hair and actually put in some effort. After all, this restaurant in the hotel is really nice, and I want to show Courtney my best.

After taking a scalding hot shower, I get out, wrap a towel around my waist, and head out into the living area, only to find Courtney there talking to my mother.

"Hey ladies," I interrupt, causing Courtney to snap her head up at me. Her cheeks redden. My mother gives me a disapproving stare. I can tell that Courtney is trying to avert her eyes, but is failing miserably.

"Like what you see, princess?"

She tries to act nonchalant. "Pfft. As if. You wish."

"Uh huh, that's why you keep sneaking looks at my chest."

My mother slaps my arm, but leaves us, walking into the bathroom.

Courtney could be a tomato for Halloween.

"You're so full of it, thinking that everyone wants to hook up with you. WRONG! THERE ARE PEOPLE LIKE ME WITH STANDARDS." And with that, she stands up, and tugs on the towel. It falls as she walks to her room.

~~~

Courtney POV:

What is it about him?

I feel the need to look pretty tonight, and I'm not okay with it. Usually, I just let life happen, and I don't try for anyone else but myself.

But tonight, I feel the need to look good. For HIM.

It's scary.

And don't even get me started on that cocky attitude. He has the audacity to call me out in front of his own mother! Ugh, how he thinks that he's a sex god. NEWSFLASH, YOU'RE NOT, DICKHEAD. Not everyone wants to hook up with you.

Especially not me. I wouldn't DREAM of it.

I don't know Courtney, I've seen your dreams . . .

BUTT OUT CONSCIENCE.

Just sayin'.

Ugh, where was I before I rudely interrupted myself?

Oh yea, Duncan.

He's the most infuriating, arrogant, jerkface I've ever seen. Not to mention flat out annoying AF.

And yet, I still want to look good for him. Stupid hormones.

After I freshen up, I take out a silky black dress that I found in the attic one day. I think it belonged to my mother, and the thought makes me tear up. I wonder what my life would be like if I had a mother. I could talk to someone about girly things. I would learn how to sew, and cook, and bake cookies in the winter.

I wouldn't have these scars on my back.

I would have a family.

But, I stop wishing for something I can never, ever have.

~~~

Duncan POV:

With our reservation at 7, we have to leave our rooms 10 minutes early, and when the time comes, I'm more than nervous as I knock on Courtney's door.