'I wish I could hold you now,
I wish I could touch you now,
I wish I could be with you,
I wish I could talk to you,
Be with you somehow'
'I wish' by R.Kelly
Bird of the Ashes and a Wedding Promise.
Bec took a deep breath and looked into the cold blue eyes. The blue eyes she used to stare at were normally a friendly, welcoming blue hue, but now they looked cold and reproachful.
'Oh where the hell should I begin? Sorry Jack for leading you on, but I kinda fell back on you to make Carlos jealous and I'm sorry for being a deceiving cow' thought Bec. The little by-play in her head wasn't helping her. She shook her head fiercely.
'I'm sorry' was all she was able to eek out. 'Great one Bec. State the obvious why don't you?' her mind hissed at her. She looked up again at Jack.
He was frowning, and his playful expression was replaced with a pensive look. At her words, he looked down at her, and to her surprise squeezed her hand comfortingly.
'Should have seen it all along' he said slightly angrily, though not in a complete rage. Bec took this moment to withdraw her hand, but he held it steadfast.
'It's just that...he's Carlos. The guy who helped me through the entire Umbrella shit, the one I shared my nightmares with…'said Bec, letting the words trail off.
'Then why were you giving me the impression that you were over him then?' asked Jack quietly. Ah. 'Good question' Bec thought.
'I thought I was, but I realised that I wasn't when I received the letter for a promotion up in Canada. I realised that if I took the job, I would not only be leaving my friends behind, but him as well' said Bec slowly, not daring to look into his hard eyes.
'I see' was all Jack said, dropping her hand abruptly and walking off in the direction of the hall. Bec stood there, her mouth agape. Composing herself, she jogged lightly over to Jack and tugged at the sleeve of his dress jacket.
'Is that all your guna say?' asked Bec incredulously, tightening her hold on his jacket. Jack stopped briefly and looked at her blankly. He gave her a wistful smile.
'That's all I have to say' he said blankly, answering her question. 'But I hope that your relationship with Amigo over there doesn't mean we can't be friends' he added, after a beat.
Bec grinned broadly and pulled him into a friendly hug and Jack stumbled with her weight being flung at him. She pulled back after a moment and smiled at him.
'May the garland of friendship be evergreen' she quoted, unable to stop smiling like a Cheshire cat. Jack still looked sad, but managed a low, shaky chuckle. They both walked into the hall, and both caught a glance at Carlos leading Phoenix outside.
They stopped briefly to regard them. Jack frowned deeply and Bec saw his expression.
'What's wrong?' she asked curiously, watching the pair walk down to the green.
'I have a feeling Amigo over there is going to have a hard time of it with Phoenix. She's pretty pissed off with him already, for dashing off to organise the prank and all' said Jack thoughtfully, draping his hands in his pockets.
'I better wait here for them to come back…I think Phoenix may need to hear it from me as well' said Bec tiredly. All the adrenaline rush and highly-strung emotions of the evening were taking its toll.
Jack nodded and headed back to hall, his face drawn and slightly white. Bec marvelled at how well he had taken it, and was glad she would be able to keep his friendship. She again drew a sigh of relief, that they hadn't gone that far in the relationship, but she had her doubts with Carlos and Phoenix's relationship.
She leaned against the fence, and waited patiently for Carlos and Phoenix to return. She half envisioned the scene of Phoenix strangling Carlos and searching for some place for the body. Bec shuddered and shook that thought as soon as it came to her head.
'Leon, I'm telling you, I love youuuuu' drawled Claire insistently, draping herself over Leon like a snake, choking its prey. Leon grinned, slightly embarrassed at some of Claire's former speculations, but saw this as a prime chance to find out what she really thought of him.
'Say Claire, am I the best lover you've ever had?' was the next question he placed for the stupefied Claire. Claire pouted for a second, and then shook her head.
'Nah, my high school boyfriend was a little more imaginative' she said in thoughtful, drunken tones. Leon's expression went from cocky to angry.
'But then again, you have a nicer ass' concluded Claire gravely. Leon smiled and grasped her hand. He noticed Jack walking back in, alone. He looked around.
'Where's Becca?' asked Leon casually, trying to extract Claire's grasp from his face, where her fingers were kneading his skin. He noticed Jack looked somewhat stunned, and his eyes were cold and dull, like the lifeless stare of a zombie.
'I found her with Carlos' was Jack's dry reply. Chris and Jill overhead the tail end of the conversation, and Chris felt his heart fire with the need to protect his surrogate sister.
'Damn, he better not be playing her again, if he breaks her heart again, I'll break his neck' growled Chris, ready to run outside and pound Carlos.
'What exactly happened?' questioned Jill, hand braced on Chris to restrain him from carrying out his threat. Jack looked at Jill and shrugged, dark circles beginning to form under his eyes.
'I walked outside to get Bec, and found them lip locking. She told me her story, and we're going to stay friends' was Jack's somewhat monologue reply.
Leon looked aghast and stood up, spilling Claire from his lap.
'Is that all your guna do? I mean, Carlos stole your girl!' Leon exclaimed, clenching his fists. He'd had just about enough of Carlos's cavorting and wasn't going to stand for a nice guy like Jack being taken down in the process.
'Yeah. It's because she really does love him, and she gave up a job in Canada just to be able to stay with him. If she can do that, then she really must be telling the truth to me. Carlos…I don't have anything against him because he really didn't steal Becca. He never flirted or did anything like that. He won her over, because he was the one she loved' finished Jack, managing a real smile for the first time since Bec's bombshell.
At the end of this speech, Jill clapped a hand on his back and gave him a wide smile.
'Even through all of that, you saw the logic and didn't go off in a mindless rage. I'm proud of you, any girl would be lucky to have you, Jack' said Jill quietly. Leon reached over and squeezed his shoulder, whilst Claire gurgled her encouragement.
Chris stood silent, still as a rock. He turned to the group slowly.
'Our bird of the ashes is returning…and she doesn't look happy' was his slightly sad statement.
Carlos bit his lip and waited. He really didn't want to break the news to Phoenix. He was dreading the moment when he would break her happy mood with his bombshell. Phoenix's hair was rippling as she chattered on about the prank and Carlos was waiting for a pause in her conversation to break the news.
'I think this calls for a celebration…when we get back home' hinted Phoenix cheekily, catching his hand. Carlos pulled back his hand and stared at Phoenix, trying to bring the words out of his mouth.
Phoenix noticed his expression and her happy look turned to a slightly discontented frown.
'What's wrong Carlos? Something I said?' she inquired quietly, looking into his eyes.
Carlos put his hands in his pockets and looked down at the ground and then back up at Phoenix.
'I really hate to say this to you, Phoenix. I never thought I would be. But I don't like you in this way anymore' was all his was able to gouge out. Phoenix's confused turned to one of anger and hate.
'You player!' she shrieked, shaking her head violently. 'You used me!' and with that, she lunged at him, her manicured nails like talons. Carlos was caught off guard, but managed to grab her hands. He held them firmly down and Phoenix's heavy breathing turned into tears.
He looked at her dumbly, feeling to the core that he had wished he'd never gotten involved with her. He'd just broken her heart, and her sobs were convulsing her slim body. He reached out to touch her shoulder, but she flinched away from him.
'I'm in love with Becca. Continuing this with you isn't right, not when I love her' he said stiffly, shaken by the image of Phoenix wiping away her tears of anger.
'Becca' mused Phoenix, beginning to recover from her outburst. 'If it was any other girl, I'd be tearing their hair out' she said, smiling wryly. Carlos breathed a sigh of relief that she was beginning to return to her normal self.
'I'm really sorry to do this to you' was Carlos's somewhat strangled response. Phoenix looked up from her musings and gave him a cold look.
'I'm sure you are. You had better treat Becca right, you here?' she said, beginning to walk back. Carlos jogged towards her.
'Phoenix, where are you going?' he asked, he retreating figure.
'I need sometime to myself' was her cold reply. She stopped to rub her eyes, when she noticed Bec standing there, watching her. She half contemplated slapping her, but withdrew the thought when she saw Bec's meek and sad expression.
'I feel bad at doing this to you and Jack. But I hope we can stay friends' said Bec hopefully and truthfully.
'I'm glad you've found each other. I would be happy to stay as your friend, Becca' said Phoenix lightly. She swayed dangerously and was caught by Carlos. She involuntarily fought Carlos's hold but relaxed and allowed him to prop her p by the fence. She glared at him and tossed her head.
'I think we shoulda stayed away from all that red wine' groaned Phoenix. It felt like the Russians and the Americans were having a nuclear war inside her skull.
'I totally agree. We'd better go inside. Coming, Phoenix?' asked Becca, offering her arm. Phoenix grudgingly linked arms with Carlos and three began to walk back indoors, when the rest of the group joined them outside.
'Nice night, huh? We all thought we'd step outside for a while' said Leon complacently, looking at the troubled threesome. Phoenix let out a long breath.
Chris looked troubled and steeled himself. He burrowed in his pocket for the small box. It was the best time to do it and he wanted everyone to hear. The moon was casting a ghostly glow over everyone's faces, and he felt now was the right time.
He gently took Jill's hand and went down on one knee. Bec let out an excited gasp, as she knew what was coming next. Chris swallowed and pried open the box, revealing a small diamond ring.
'Jill will you, uh, please, do me the honour of uh…' he stuttered nervously. Leon let out a chuckle and slapped his back lightly.
'What I think this stuttering idiot is trying to say, is will you marry him?' said Leon, smiling broadly at Jill's shocked and happy expression and Chris's deathly pallor.
'Yes. Of course I will. I've been waiting goddamn ages for you to have just asked!' said Jill jubilantly, throwing her arms around Chris and hugging her pale husband-to-be.
Bec walked over and hugged both of them, examining the fine ring. The single diamond glittered brightly, beckoning of prosperous times to come.
Carlos and Leon both thumped Chris's shoulder and Carlos kissed Jill's cheek quickly and fully, both unable to stop grinning. Jack walked up and offered his congratulations.
'Wait a minute, where's Claire?' asked Chris, beginning to frown worriedly. His intoxicated sister wasn't with the party out on the green. He was rewarded by Phoenix screaming and pointing to an oak tree, where his sister was dangling dangerously.
'Shit, we better get her down. She's too drunk to manage it safely by herself' said Carlos with alacrity, stepping forwards to help Claire. They all watching as Claire giggled and climbed higher in the tree.
'Claire, this isn't a good idea, Sugar, come down off the tree!' yelled Leon to his cross-eyed girlfriend.
'Ohhh…Mr Tree and me have something goooinngg' slurred Claire, swinging dangerously. The whole group convulsed as she proceeded to hang upside down from the tree.
'Sis, if you get down now, I'll get you a nice big bottle of tequila, how does that sound?' asked Chris desperately. Claire only giggled and swung like a monkey. Jack took a step towards the tree.
'I'll get her down' he said. Beginning to grip onto the tree trunk. Jill stepped forward.
'Are you sure? She's pretty gone, it'll be hard to carry her down' she said, looking up at Claire's droopy form. Jack grinned, his boyish features adopting a cheerful look.
'I'll just imagine her as being a very large cat' he said smoothly, chuckling lightly. He began climbing the tree before anybody could object.
Jack had reached the branch where Claire was beginning to shed her clothes to the shock of the group waiting down below.
'Well, heellloooo Jackyyyy' she said, batting her eyelashes, reeking of drink. Jack reached out to grab Claire who held onto the branch as if her life depended on it.
'Come on Claire, it's not safe up here' he insisted, trying to wrench her grip from the branch. Claire hugged the branch and stuck her tongue out. Jack thought quickly, trying to come up with a way to entice her down. He suddenly hit upon an idea.
'Your love god is waiting for you' he said darkly, watching Claire's hands uncoil from the branch.
'Love god…needs some good loooving, but tequila' said Claire sadly, letting herself be drawn towards Jack.
'What about tequila?' asked Jack, as he began to climb down the tree with Claire over his shoulder like a heavy sack.
'It's all gone!' she said sadly, looking at the empty bottle. Jack gave a groan of effort and climbed down the last part. He wondered how Claire had gotten up so high in her state. It was tough enough for him. They were greeted by applause as he approached the anxious group below.
'Thanks a lot Jack' said Leon gratefully, removing the bundle from Jack. Claire gurgled and giggled and blew Jack a kiss. Chris was about to say something, when Claire interrupted.
'I'd rather give Jack some loving, but I'll settle for my love god' was Claire's earnest statement.
The eventful evening ended in laughter, though Chris shook his head at his sister's behaviour.
'Well we better be heading off' said Leon to the others. He's installed Claire in the car, and firmly strapped her in. She waved at them, semi drunk, and semi sleepy blowing them kisses, like a film star to her fans.
'Thanks again for helping out with Claire' said Leon to Jack, gratefully. Jack shook his head and smiled. 'Congratulations again, Chris and Jill, this is the best news we've heard in a while' he shouted from car as they drove off. Jill and Chris waved, and then paused to share a loving kiss.
Jack felt entirely drained by the evening's events. He'd hooked up with Bec, witnessed a semi naked Leon, been dumped by Bec and then rescued someone from a tree. It was enough excitement for one evening. He turned to Phoenix who was cursing under her breath.
'What's up?' he asked, as Phoenix hopped about in a frustrated manner.
'My feet are killing me from these shoes, and I think I'll have to endure a walk home in them' she moaned, wriggling her toes. Jack cocked his head over to where Bec and Carlos were deep in conversation.
'I'm sure Carlos would give you a lift home, he isn't the kinda guy to ditch a girl like this' said Jack positively. Phoenix shook her head defiantly.
'I don't want to intrude. You know?' she said, pushing her bangs out of her eyes. Jack grinned boyishly and offered his arm.
'I'll give you a ride home, as I don't think Becca will be needing it' he said, turning to Phoenix. Phoenix accepted his arm and walked over to his car.
'Fact is though; I'm not that tired yet. You want to go to a bar or someplace?' he asked shyly, before getting in the car. Phoenix sat in the passenger front seat and slammed the car door.
'Best suggestion I've heard all evening' she said cheerily, welcoming the thought of having a sherry with a nice guy like Jack. 'But one thing…'she said, as Jack turned the engine on.
'No funny business' she said simply, her eyes looking fatigued by the events of the dance. Jack nodded and was about to say something before she interrupted.
'At least not yet' she said coyly, hiding her expression by looking outside the window.
Jack let out a low whistle and smiled. He'd get there, eventually. They both would. However, they'd endured enough of that kind of emotion this evening. It was time to knock back, and relax. He decided to save examining his relationship with Phoenix for a later date.
'Would you look at that?' noted Chris as he saw Phoenix and Jack drive off together. Jill frowned slightly and scrutinised the disappearing car.
'Don't worry, I think they've just become friends because of this thing with Carlos and Becca' said Chris soothingly. 'Besides we have other things to think off, Mrs Redfield-to-be' he said fondly, stroking her hair.
'Like what we're going to call, uhh, the next little Redfield?' said Jill haltingly, not meeting Chris's gaze. Chris's blissful expression changed to one of horror. He shook his head, but Jill nodded, the color rising in her cheeks.
'No way!' said Chris disbelievingly, looking at Jill closely, thinking it was one of Jill's jokes to scare the crap out of him. Jill shook her head and pulled Chris close to her.
'I was going to tell you when we got home. But I couldn't keep it in any longer' she said in a whisper. Chris stared at her dumbly, before pulling her into a loving embrace. He pulled away and placed his hand lightly on Jill's belly. He frowned lightly.
'Haven't you been drinking this evening?' he asked, the paternal instincts beginning to kick in already. Jill rested her hand over his. She looked up at him, with watery blue eyes, smiling wistfully.
'Yeah, I was the one responsible for filling up on the all non-alcoholic wine' she said sheepishly, her mouth curling up into a naughty smile. 'Of course I didn't tell anyone that, didn't want to raise suspicion'.
'I bet. We have a lot to talk about when we get home' he Chris empathetically, leading Jill towards the car. 'Should we tell the others?' he asked in a low voice, once they were in the convertible.
'Not yet. They've all had enough shocks to last them for a while' said Jill softly, looking out the window. 'Besides, I can't wait to spring that bombshell on them and scare the crap outta them' said Jill devilishly, grinning wickedly. Chris raised his eyebrows and laughed.
'Of course, it's going to be a boy. He'll have his dad's dashing good looks and amazing presence on the battlefield, plus he'll be the best left quarter-back the world's ever seen, after me, of course' said Chris jokingly, unable to take his eyes off Jill's belly.
Jill pouted and began to concoct her story. She let her eyes close lightly, and thought about the life growing inside her.
'SHE will be a stunner like her mother. But will have the sparkling green eyes like her dad, and drive the guys wild. She'll be captain of the sprint relay team, and will run track like both her parents, and she'll stand up to those goddamn cheerleaders!' declared Jill passionately, as Chris started the car and began to drive back home.
'What if she ends up being a cheerleader?' asked Chris. Jill shook her head furiously.
'No way!' she said passionately. 'Not in a million years, hell, I don't know what the sex it is yet…so we'll keep dreaming until the time comes' said Jill pensively, resting her head on Chris's shoulder.
The couple arrived back at their small home. Jill looked at the dark front lawn, and imagined it littered with bicycles and various sports equipment, and the oak tree, which would hold a swing.
The Redfield Family sounded strange to her, but she would grow to love it. She rested her hand upon her belly and sighed, immersed in thought.
Leon grunted in effort as he struggled to carry Claire up the stairs. The journey in car had lulled Claire into a deep, coma like sleep. Her lips were smiling, and she looked comfortable and warm. She was hugging the bottle of tequila to her, finger tightly clutching it.
He gave up on the stairs, and placed Claire carefully on the couch, pulling her shoes off and tucking a blanket over her. He was about to go and get himself a black coffee when he heard a groan from the couch where Claire was reposing. He wandered back to find a dishevelled Claire propping herself up by her elbows.
'Ugghh…my head' she mumbled, raising a hand to massage the afflicted head. Leon pulled her into her lap, and stroked the aching head.
'Do you remember any of tonight's events?' asked Leon curiously, wondering how the eyes of a drunk would render the dance's outcome. Claire rubbed her eyes and slumped against Leon.
'I remember you running around naked with a placard, and drinking a lot…nothing else' she said, groaning. She caught sight of Leon's knowing grin and her eyebrows went up. 'What, did I do anything else?' she asked, dreading his reply.
'Your brother and Jill got engaged, Carlos and Becca got together, and you climbed up a tree and was rescued by Jack' said Leon, pausing for a breath. Claire moved away from Leon and looked into his twinkling blue orbs. Claire groaned.
'A tree? What the hell was I doing up a tree?' asked Claire incredulously, wriggling like a meditative calf. Leon ruffled the curtain of auburn hair thoughtfully, and kissed the top of the rumpled head.
'I thought the same thing, but luckily Jack came to the rescue' replied Leon, shifting to make himself more comfortable on the couch. He heard no response from Claire. He looked down and found her in a contented, deep sleep. Leon tickled her under her chin lightly, and settled back to sleep.
'Here we are' drawled Carlos as they drove up to Becca's house. Bec got out of the car, and Carlos followed, catching her hand as they walked along. They stopped at her front doorstep.
'Never imagined I'd end up getting a ride home with you' said Bec thoughtfully, looking down at the step. Carlos smiled and shrugged, catching hold of her chin and raising her lips to his. After the kiss Bec pulled back.
'Well, better be going now. Thanks for the ride, Carlos' said Bec sweetly, unable to wipe the smile off her face. Carlos lingered at her doorstep, leaning on the doorframe with his eyebrows arched. She waited for him to answer.
'Mi chica, there is still one way we could entertain each other' he said suggestively, sliding his arm around her waist. Bec drew back voluntarily in surprise.
'I know that much. But too much has happened already this evening…and it's moving kinda fast for me' said Bec firmly, untangling herself from Carlos. He simply nodded and pulled her close, feeling the press of her small body against him.
'Just tell me when you're ready' he said, ruffling her hair. 'And I'll come running'.
Bec giggled and gave her Carlos a kiss goodbye and went inside the house. She looked with new eyes at the small house, which she had grown fond of. She wasn't going to have to leave it, and it would hold many happy memories to come. It felt strange thinking of Carlos as being hers, as she had never imagined the opportunity would come round again.
She slipped off her shoes, and padded upstairs in her stockings. She slipped off her dress and stocking, throwing them onto the nearby chair and pulled on her comfortable flannel pyjamas.
The dance had opened a whole window of opportunities. There was Chris and Jill's
Wedding to look forward to, a future with Carlos and her work with the STARs. It was strange to think that only a few days ago, she had been so low and morose and the contrast it was between herself then, and herself now was stark and strange.
Bec smiled to herself, and cuddled down under the covers, hugging the teddy bear (a Christmas gift from Chris) and settled into a relaxing slumber.
-The End.
Chicky's note: HAHAHAHAHA! I've finally finished this worthless piece of writing! Jeez, it's taken me ages! Thank you to all the people who supported this fic, I'm really happy for your reviews and suggestions!
1. Chris and Jill's wedding and baby: I was intending to include the proposing part for ages, but the baby bit just popped into my head and I thought it would be cute. I know it sounds kinda cheesy, but wouldn't a Chris 'n' Jill baby look so adorable? And it leaves me an opening for the sequel! (If I have time to write it!)
2. Phoenix and Jack: I didn't want to throw these two together, as a) it was too obvious I was going to and b) after being dumped, it would look as though they were both on the rebound. I hope to keep these two characters, and I would like some suggestions as to whether I should keep them or not.
3. Carlos and Rebecca: Okay, I know most of you expected a sex scene between them, but the fact is, I can't for the life of me write them! I'm not really into all this deep stuff. Also, I didn't think Becca is the type to just 'jump into bed' with somebody.
4. Claire and Leon: Ahh, these two. I have a soft spot for this mischievous pairing, and again most people expected them to 'get it on' (like they never do) but again, there's the whole 'I can't write sex scenes' thing and the fact Claire was totally wasted.
Well, here ends Come Dance With Me…and I hoped all you guys liked it. Whew, I'm tired!
Sayonara!
-Chicky Tifa x.
I wish I could touch you now,
I wish I could be with you,
I wish I could talk to you,
Be with you somehow'
'I wish' by R.Kelly
Bird of the Ashes and a Wedding Promise.
Bec took a deep breath and looked into the cold blue eyes. The blue eyes she used to stare at were normally a friendly, welcoming blue hue, but now they looked cold and reproachful.
'Oh where the hell should I begin? Sorry Jack for leading you on, but I kinda fell back on you to make Carlos jealous and I'm sorry for being a deceiving cow' thought Bec. The little by-play in her head wasn't helping her. She shook her head fiercely.
'I'm sorry' was all she was able to eek out. 'Great one Bec. State the obvious why don't you?' her mind hissed at her. She looked up again at Jack.
He was frowning, and his playful expression was replaced with a pensive look. At her words, he looked down at her, and to her surprise squeezed her hand comfortingly.
'Should have seen it all along' he said slightly angrily, though not in a complete rage. Bec took this moment to withdraw her hand, but he held it steadfast.
'It's just that...he's Carlos. The guy who helped me through the entire Umbrella shit, the one I shared my nightmares with…'said Bec, letting the words trail off.
'Then why were you giving me the impression that you were over him then?' asked Jack quietly. Ah. 'Good question' Bec thought.
'I thought I was, but I realised that I wasn't when I received the letter for a promotion up in Canada. I realised that if I took the job, I would not only be leaving my friends behind, but him as well' said Bec slowly, not daring to look into his hard eyes.
'I see' was all Jack said, dropping her hand abruptly and walking off in the direction of the hall. Bec stood there, her mouth agape. Composing herself, she jogged lightly over to Jack and tugged at the sleeve of his dress jacket.
'Is that all your guna say?' asked Bec incredulously, tightening her hold on his jacket. Jack stopped briefly and looked at her blankly. He gave her a wistful smile.
'That's all I have to say' he said blankly, answering her question. 'But I hope that your relationship with Amigo over there doesn't mean we can't be friends' he added, after a beat.
Bec grinned broadly and pulled him into a friendly hug and Jack stumbled with her weight being flung at him. She pulled back after a moment and smiled at him.
'May the garland of friendship be evergreen' she quoted, unable to stop smiling like a Cheshire cat. Jack still looked sad, but managed a low, shaky chuckle. They both walked into the hall, and both caught a glance at Carlos leading Phoenix outside.
They stopped briefly to regard them. Jack frowned deeply and Bec saw his expression.
'What's wrong?' she asked curiously, watching the pair walk down to the green.
'I have a feeling Amigo over there is going to have a hard time of it with Phoenix. She's pretty pissed off with him already, for dashing off to organise the prank and all' said Jack thoughtfully, draping his hands in his pockets.
'I better wait here for them to come back…I think Phoenix may need to hear it from me as well' said Bec tiredly. All the adrenaline rush and highly-strung emotions of the evening were taking its toll.
Jack nodded and headed back to hall, his face drawn and slightly white. Bec marvelled at how well he had taken it, and was glad she would be able to keep his friendship. She again drew a sigh of relief, that they hadn't gone that far in the relationship, but she had her doubts with Carlos and Phoenix's relationship.
She leaned against the fence, and waited patiently for Carlos and Phoenix to return. She half envisioned the scene of Phoenix strangling Carlos and searching for some place for the body. Bec shuddered and shook that thought as soon as it came to her head.
'Leon, I'm telling you, I love youuuuu' drawled Claire insistently, draping herself over Leon like a snake, choking its prey. Leon grinned, slightly embarrassed at some of Claire's former speculations, but saw this as a prime chance to find out what she really thought of him.
'Say Claire, am I the best lover you've ever had?' was the next question he placed for the stupefied Claire. Claire pouted for a second, and then shook her head.
'Nah, my high school boyfriend was a little more imaginative' she said in thoughtful, drunken tones. Leon's expression went from cocky to angry.
'But then again, you have a nicer ass' concluded Claire gravely. Leon smiled and grasped her hand. He noticed Jack walking back in, alone. He looked around.
'Where's Becca?' asked Leon casually, trying to extract Claire's grasp from his face, where her fingers were kneading his skin. He noticed Jack looked somewhat stunned, and his eyes were cold and dull, like the lifeless stare of a zombie.
'I found her with Carlos' was Jack's dry reply. Chris and Jill overhead the tail end of the conversation, and Chris felt his heart fire with the need to protect his surrogate sister.
'Damn, he better not be playing her again, if he breaks her heart again, I'll break his neck' growled Chris, ready to run outside and pound Carlos.
'What exactly happened?' questioned Jill, hand braced on Chris to restrain him from carrying out his threat. Jack looked at Jill and shrugged, dark circles beginning to form under his eyes.
'I walked outside to get Bec, and found them lip locking. She told me her story, and we're going to stay friends' was Jack's somewhat monologue reply.
Leon looked aghast and stood up, spilling Claire from his lap.
'Is that all your guna do? I mean, Carlos stole your girl!' Leon exclaimed, clenching his fists. He'd had just about enough of Carlos's cavorting and wasn't going to stand for a nice guy like Jack being taken down in the process.
'Yeah. It's because she really does love him, and she gave up a job in Canada just to be able to stay with him. If she can do that, then she really must be telling the truth to me. Carlos…I don't have anything against him because he really didn't steal Becca. He never flirted or did anything like that. He won her over, because he was the one she loved' finished Jack, managing a real smile for the first time since Bec's bombshell.
At the end of this speech, Jill clapped a hand on his back and gave him a wide smile.
'Even through all of that, you saw the logic and didn't go off in a mindless rage. I'm proud of you, any girl would be lucky to have you, Jack' said Jill quietly. Leon reached over and squeezed his shoulder, whilst Claire gurgled her encouragement.
Chris stood silent, still as a rock. He turned to the group slowly.
'Our bird of the ashes is returning…and she doesn't look happy' was his slightly sad statement.
Carlos bit his lip and waited. He really didn't want to break the news to Phoenix. He was dreading the moment when he would break her happy mood with his bombshell. Phoenix's hair was rippling as she chattered on about the prank and Carlos was waiting for a pause in her conversation to break the news.
'I think this calls for a celebration…when we get back home' hinted Phoenix cheekily, catching his hand. Carlos pulled back his hand and stared at Phoenix, trying to bring the words out of his mouth.
Phoenix noticed his expression and her happy look turned to a slightly discontented frown.
'What's wrong Carlos? Something I said?' she inquired quietly, looking into his eyes.
Carlos put his hands in his pockets and looked down at the ground and then back up at Phoenix.
'I really hate to say this to you, Phoenix. I never thought I would be. But I don't like you in this way anymore' was all his was able to gouge out. Phoenix's confused turned to one of anger and hate.
'You player!' she shrieked, shaking her head violently. 'You used me!' and with that, she lunged at him, her manicured nails like talons. Carlos was caught off guard, but managed to grab her hands. He held them firmly down and Phoenix's heavy breathing turned into tears.
He looked at her dumbly, feeling to the core that he had wished he'd never gotten involved with her. He'd just broken her heart, and her sobs were convulsing her slim body. He reached out to touch her shoulder, but she flinched away from him.
'I'm in love with Becca. Continuing this with you isn't right, not when I love her' he said stiffly, shaken by the image of Phoenix wiping away her tears of anger.
'Becca' mused Phoenix, beginning to recover from her outburst. 'If it was any other girl, I'd be tearing their hair out' she said, smiling wryly. Carlos breathed a sigh of relief that she was beginning to return to her normal self.
'I'm really sorry to do this to you' was Carlos's somewhat strangled response. Phoenix looked up from her musings and gave him a cold look.
'I'm sure you are. You had better treat Becca right, you here?' she said, beginning to walk back. Carlos jogged towards her.
'Phoenix, where are you going?' he asked, he retreating figure.
'I need sometime to myself' was her cold reply. She stopped to rub her eyes, when she noticed Bec standing there, watching her. She half contemplated slapping her, but withdrew the thought when she saw Bec's meek and sad expression.
'I feel bad at doing this to you and Jack. But I hope we can stay friends' said Bec hopefully and truthfully.
'I'm glad you've found each other. I would be happy to stay as your friend, Becca' said Phoenix lightly. She swayed dangerously and was caught by Carlos. She involuntarily fought Carlos's hold but relaxed and allowed him to prop her p by the fence. She glared at him and tossed her head.
'I think we shoulda stayed away from all that red wine' groaned Phoenix. It felt like the Russians and the Americans were having a nuclear war inside her skull.
'I totally agree. We'd better go inside. Coming, Phoenix?' asked Becca, offering her arm. Phoenix grudgingly linked arms with Carlos and three began to walk back indoors, when the rest of the group joined them outside.
'Nice night, huh? We all thought we'd step outside for a while' said Leon complacently, looking at the troubled threesome. Phoenix let out a long breath.
Chris looked troubled and steeled himself. He burrowed in his pocket for the small box. It was the best time to do it and he wanted everyone to hear. The moon was casting a ghostly glow over everyone's faces, and he felt now was the right time.
He gently took Jill's hand and went down on one knee. Bec let out an excited gasp, as she knew what was coming next. Chris swallowed and pried open the box, revealing a small diamond ring.
'Jill will you, uh, please, do me the honour of uh…' he stuttered nervously. Leon let out a chuckle and slapped his back lightly.
'What I think this stuttering idiot is trying to say, is will you marry him?' said Leon, smiling broadly at Jill's shocked and happy expression and Chris's deathly pallor.
'Yes. Of course I will. I've been waiting goddamn ages for you to have just asked!' said Jill jubilantly, throwing her arms around Chris and hugging her pale husband-to-be.
Bec walked over and hugged both of them, examining the fine ring. The single diamond glittered brightly, beckoning of prosperous times to come.
Carlos and Leon both thumped Chris's shoulder and Carlos kissed Jill's cheek quickly and fully, both unable to stop grinning. Jack walked up and offered his congratulations.
'Wait a minute, where's Claire?' asked Chris, beginning to frown worriedly. His intoxicated sister wasn't with the party out on the green. He was rewarded by Phoenix screaming and pointing to an oak tree, where his sister was dangling dangerously.
'Shit, we better get her down. She's too drunk to manage it safely by herself' said Carlos with alacrity, stepping forwards to help Claire. They all watching as Claire giggled and climbed higher in the tree.
'Claire, this isn't a good idea, Sugar, come down off the tree!' yelled Leon to his cross-eyed girlfriend.
'Ohhh…Mr Tree and me have something goooinngg' slurred Claire, swinging dangerously. The whole group convulsed as she proceeded to hang upside down from the tree.
'Sis, if you get down now, I'll get you a nice big bottle of tequila, how does that sound?' asked Chris desperately. Claire only giggled and swung like a monkey. Jack took a step towards the tree.
'I'll get her down' he said. Beginning to grip onto the tree trunk. Jill stepped forward.
'Are you sure? She's pretty gone, it'll be hard to carry her down' she said, looking up at Claire's droopy form. Jack grinned, his boyish features adopting a cheerful look.
'I'll just imagine her as being a very large cat' he said smoothly, chuckling lightly. He began climbing the tree before anybody could object.
Jack had reached the branch where Claire was beginning to shed her clothes to the shock of the group waiting down below.
'Well, heellloooo Jackyyyy' she said, batting her eyelashes, reeking of drink. Jack reached out to grab Claire who held onto the branch as if her life depended on it.
'Come on Claire, it's not safe up here' he insisted, trying to wrench her grip from the branch. Claire hugged the branch and stuck her tongue out. Jack thought quickly, trying to come up with a way to entice her down. He suddenly hit upon an idea.
'Your love god is waiting for you' he said darkly, watching Claire's hands uncoil from the branch.
'Love god…needs some good loooving, but tequila' said Claire sadly, letting herself be drawn towards Jack.
'What about tequila?' asked Jack, as he began to climb down the tree with Claire over his shoulder like a heavy sack.
'It's all gone!' she said sadly, looking at the empty bottle. Jack gave a groan of effort and climbed down the last part. He wondered how Claire had gotten up so high in her state. It was tough enough for him. They were greeted by applause as he approached the anxious group below.
'Thanks a lot Jack' said Leon gratefully, removing the bundle from Jack. Claire gurgled and giggled and blew Jack a kiss. Chris was about to say something, when Claire interrupted.
'I'd rather give Jack some loving, but I'll settle for my love god' was Claire's earnest statement.
The eventful evening ended in laughter, though Chris shook his head at his sister's behaviour.
'Well we better be heading off' said Leon to the others. He's installed Claire in the car, and firmly strapped her in. She waved at them, semi drunk, and semi sleepy blowing them kisses, like a film star to her fans.
'Thanks again for helping out with Claire' said Leon to Jack, gratefully. Jack shook his head and smiled. 'Congratulations again, Chris and Jill, this is the best news we've heard in a while' he shouted from car as they drove off. Jill and Chris waved, and then paused to share a loving kiss.
Jack felt entirely drained by the evening's events. He'd hooked up with Bec, witnessed a semi naked Leon, been dumped by Bec and then rescued someone from a tree. It was enough excitement for one evening. He turned to Phoenix who was cursing under her breath.
'What's up?' he asked, as Phoenix hopped about in a frustrated manner.
'My feet are killing me from these shoes, and I think I'll have to endure a walk home in them' she moaned, wriggling her toes. Jack cocked his head over to where Bec and Carlos were deep in conversation.
'I'm sure Carlos would give you a lift home, he isn't the kinda guy to ditch a girl like this' said Jack positively. Phoenix shook her head defiantly.
'I don't want to intrude. You know?' she said, pushing her bangs out of her eyes. Jack grinned boyishly and offered his arm.
'I'll give you a ride home, as I don't think Becca will be needing it' he said, turning to Phoenix. Phoenix accepted his arm and walked over to his car.
'Fact is though; I'm not that tired yet. You want to go to a bar or someplace?' he asked shyly, before getting in the car. Phoenix sat in the passenger front seat and slammed the car door.
'Best suggestion I've heard all evening' she said cheerily, welcoming the thought of having a sherry with a nice guy like Jack. 'But one thing…'she said, as Jack turned the engine on.
'No funny business' she said simply, her eyes looking fatigued by the events of the dance. Jack nodded and was about to say something before she interrupted.
'At least not yet' she said coyly, hiding her expression by looking outside the window.
Jack let out a low whistle and smiled. He'd get there, eventually. They both would. However, they'd endured enough of that kind of emotion this evening. It was time to knock back, and relax. He decided to save examining his relationship with Phoenix for a later date.
'Would you look at that?' noted Chris as he saw Phoenix and Jack drive off together. Jill frowned slightly and scrutinised the disappearing car.
'Don't worry, I think they've just become friends because of this thing with Carlos and Becca' said Chris soothingly. 'Besides we have other things to think off, Mrs Redfield-to-be' he said fondly, stroking her hair.
'Like what we're going to call, uhh, the next little Redfield?' said Jill haltingly, not meeting Chris's gaze. Chris's blissful expression changed to one of horror. He shook his head, but Jill nodded, the color rising in her cheeks.
'No way!' said Chris disbelievingly, looking at Jill closely, thinking it was one of Jill's jokes to scare the crap out of him. Jill shook her head and pulled Chris close to her.
'I was going to tell you when we got home. But I couldn't keep it in any longer' she said in a whisper. Chris stared at her dumbly, before pulling her into a loving embrace. He pulled away and placed his hand lightly on Jill's belly. He frowned lightly.
'Haven't you been drinking this evening?' he asked, the paternal instincts beginning to kick in already. Jill rested her hand over his. She looked up at him, with watery blue eyes, smiling wistfully.
'Yeah, I was the one responsible for filling up on the all non-alcoholic wine' she said sheepishly, her mouth curling up into a naughty smile. 'Of course I didn't tell anyone that, didn't want to raise suspicion'.
'I bet. We have a lot to talk about when we get home' he Chris empathetically, leading Jill towards the car. 'Should we tell the others?' he asked in a low voice, once they were in the convertible.
'Not yet. They've all had enough shocks to last them for a while' said Jill softly, looking out the window. 'Besides, I can't wait to spring that bombshell on them and scare the crap outta them' said Jill devilishly, grinning wickedly. Chris raised his eyebrows and laughed.
'Of course, it's going to be a boy. He'll have his dad's dashing good looks and amazing presence on the battlefield, plus he'll be the best left quarter-back the world's ever seen, after me, of course' said Chris jokingly, unable to take his eyes off Jill's belly.
Jill pouted and began to concoct her story. She let her eyes close lightly, and thought about the life growing inside her.
'SHE will be a stunner like her mother. But will have the sparkling green eyes like her dad, and drive the guys wild. She'll be captain of the sprint relay team, and will run track like both her parents, and she'll stand up to those goddamn cheerleaders!' declared Jill passionately, as Chris started the car and began to drive back home.
'What if she ends up being a cheerleader?' asked Chris. Jill shook her head furiously.
'No way!' she said passionately. 'Not in a million years, hell, I don't know what the sex it is yet…so we'll keep dreaming until the time comes' said Jill pensively, resting her head on Chris's shoulder.
The couple arrived back at their small home. Jill looked at the dark front lawn, and imagined it littered with bicycles and various sports equipment, and the oak tree, which would hold a swing.
The Redfield Family sounded strange to her, but she would grow to love it. She rested her hand upon her belly and sighed, immersed in thought.
Leon grunted in effort as he struggled to carry Claire up the stairs. The journey in car had lulled Claire into a deep, coma like sleep. Her lips were smiling, and she looked comfortable and warm. She was hugging the bottle of tequila to her, finger tightly clutching it.
He gave up on the stairs, and placed Claire carefully on the couch, pulling her shoes off and tucking a blanket over her. He was about to go and get himself a black coffee when he heard a groan from the couch where Claire was reposing. He wandered back to find a dishevelled Claire propping herself up by her elbows.
'Ugghh…my head' she mumbled, raising a hand to massage the afflicted head. Leon pulled her into her lap, and stroked the aching head.
'Do you remember any of tonight's events?' asked Leon curiously, wondering how the eyes of a drunk would render the dance's outcome. Claire rubbed her eyes and slumped against Leon.
'I remember you running around naked with a placard, and drinking a lot…nothing else' she said, groaning. She caught sight of Leon's knowing grin and her eyebrows went up. 'What, did I do anything else?' she asked, dreading his reply.
'Your brother and Jill got engaged, Carlos and Becca got together, and you climbed up a tree and was rescued by Jack' said Leon, pausing for a breath. Claire moved away from Leon and looked into his twinkling blue orbs. Claire groaned.
'A tree? What the hell was I doing up a tree?' asked Claire incredulously, wriggling like a meditative calf. Leon ruffled the curtain of auburn hair thoughtfully, and kissed the top of the rumpled head.
'I thought the same thing, but luckily Jack came to the rescue' replied Leon, shifting to make himself more comfortable on the couch. He heard no response from Claire. He looked down and found her in a contented, deep sleep. Leon tickled her under her chin lightly, and settled back to sleep.
'Here we are' drawled Carlos as they drove up to Becca's house. Bec got out of the car, and Carlos followed, catching her hand as they walked along. They stopped at her front doorstep.
'Never imagined I'd end up getting a ride home with you' said Bec thoughtfully, looking down at the step. Carlos smiled and shrugged, catching hold of her chin and raising her lips to his. After the kiss Bec pulled back.
'Well, better be going now. Thanks for the ride, Carlos' said Bec sweetly, unable to wipe the smile off her face. Carlos lingered at her doorstep, leaning on the doorframe with his eyebrows arched. She waited for him to answer.
'Mi chica, there is still one way we could entertain each other' he said suggestively, sliding his arm around her waist. Bec drew back voluntarily in surprise.
'I know that much. But too much has happened already this evening…and it's moving kinda fast for me' said Bec firmly, untangling herself from Carlos. He simply nodded and pulled her close, feeling the press of her small body against him.
'Just tell me when you're ready' he said, ruffling her hair. 'And I'll come running'.
Bec giggled and gave her Carlos a kiss goodbye and went inside the house. She looked with new eyes at the small house, which she had grown fond of. She wasn't going to have to leave it, and it would hold many happy memories to come. It felt strange thinking of Carlos as being hers, as she had never imagined the opportunity would come round again.
She slipped off her shoes, and padded upstairs in her stockings. She slipped off her dress and stocking, throwing them onto the nearby chair and pulled on her comfortable flannel pyjamas.
The dance had opened a whole window of opportunities. There was Chris and Jill's
Wedding to look forward to, a future with Carlos and her work with the STARs. It was strange to think that only a few days ago, she had been so low and morose and the contrast it was between herself then, and herself now was stark and strange.
Bec smiled to herself, and cuddled down under the covers, hugging the teddy bear (a Christmas gift from Chris) and settled into a relaxing slumber.
-The End.
Chicky's note: HAHAHAHAHA! I've finally finished this worthless piece of writing! Jeez, it's taken me ages! Thank you to all the people who supported this fic, I'm really happy for your reviews and suggestions!
1. Chris and Jill's wedding and baby: I was intending to include the proposing part for ages, but the baby bit just popped into my head and I thought it would be cute. I know it sounds kinda cheesy, but wouldn't a Chris 'n' Jill baby look so adorable? And it leaves me an opening for the sequel! (If I have time to write it!)
2. Phoenix and Jack: I didn't want to throw these two together, as a) it was too obvious I was going to and b) after being dumped, it would look as though they were both on the rebound. I hope to keep these two characters, and I would like some suggestions as to whether I should keep them or not.
3. Carlos and Rebecca: Okay, I know most of you expected a sex scene between them, but the fact is, I can't for the life of me write them! I'm not really into all this deep stuff. Also, I didn't think Becca is the type to just 'jump into bed' with somebody.
4. Claire and Leon: Ahh, these two. I have a soft spot for this mischievous pairing, and again most people expected them to 'get it on' (like they never do) but again, there's the whole 'I can't write sex scenes' thing and the fact Claire was totally wasted.
Well, here ends Come Dance With Me…and I hoped all you guys liked it. Whew, I'm tired!
Sayonara!
-Chicky Tifa x.