Young and Free

After everyone had gone back to their dorms after the formal, Pepper had sat on the Grand Hall's steps for the longest while. After the crazy night of...well, doing nothing, sitting alone with the cool breeze was nice. Starting to feel too alone, Pepper took off her heals and started walking towards the courtyard. God, I hate heels. He thought as they swung in her hand.

He pink dress glimmered in the moonlight as she walked on the stone path. The girl dreamed of dancing with someone that night but unfortunately, it didn't come true. Pepper gave a little sway, pretending to dance with someone and twirled around as she walked, but then stopped. Oh come on. Why do I even try? She looked at the ground.

Pepper froze in utter dismay when she heard a familiar voice. That bastard. Anger started to bubble inside her. Pepper whipped around, facing the boy. "Cayden, fancy seeing you here." She said stiffly. "Looks like you didn't have a date tonight either." She could barely look him in the eyes. Pepper was still furious at him for getting her in trouble a few weeks ago when they burnt the forest down.

Pepper stood there in silence, so close to slapping Cayden across the face. "No, she never told me that." She said clenching her fist and looking at the ground. Cause she was never home. Pepper gave a sigh. "Why are you here? Why are you sticking around this lonely place?" Pepper asked, finally bringing her eyes to meet his. "And for your sister? Why would she need someone like you to "escort" her?"

Save me from myself? She pondered the coment but was soon overwelmed with the stronge scent of his cologne. She couldn't possibly say no, for that would be rude. But at the same time, why say yes? Why does he deserve a dance? "Okay." She said a bit timidly, wondering why he had that grin on his face. Pepper couldn't tell if he had some studpid plan to humiliate her or was just happy.

Pepper reluctantly took Cayden's hand and wondered how this would go down. She was never much of a dancer and hoped she wouldn't make a fool of herself.

Soon enough, Pepper was whisked into a dance. Having lived with 11 brothers most of her life, she was surprised that she didn't know any dances. Every little while Cayden would tap and nudge her into the right position. This was probably the most uncomfortable and awkaward thing she had ever done, but part of dancing with him felt...normal. Cayden's hum to the ball room song was soothing and Pepper relaxed.

Hearing something in the sky, she looked up seeing little bursts of fireworks. "Wow" She said quietly then looked back to Cayden, giving a smile. Not saying another word, Pepper rested her head on Cayden's chest, enjoying the moment. Maybe this won't be so bad after all.

(Listening to a song, have so much romantic muse rn)

Pepper followed his footsteps, moving gracefully with him. She felt so happy but something else tugged at her. Was it right to have feelings for him? She couldn't help but feel conflicted, but pushed away the thoughts. Enjoy now. They danced along in the courtyard, the night was more than perfect. Pepper looked back up to him trying to keep her cool as he spoke. "Uh...Well, no ones ever..." Her voice trailed off as she blushed. "You're handsome." Pepper said softly, not able to hold it in anymore. "And I'm not just saying that, by the way." She said a bit more seriously. "Listen, I'm sorry if I've been acting... a bit snappy lately."

Pepper stood there as his hand gently tucked her hair in and grazed along her cheek. She felt herself be pulled in closer to him but didn't budge. Why she didn't move away, she had no idea. All she knew was this was amazing and nothing could ruin it. "You do?" She said quietly, having a hard time beilving it. "You're not so bad yourself." She smiled, the moon light made her dress sparkle.

Soon enough, Pepper felt Cayden's lips against hers. She didn't know how long they stood there but after a little bit she gently pulled away. "Of course it is." She whispered and put her arms around his neck. Pepper had to be slightly on her toes, but it didn't matter. With no hesitation her lips met his once more. How could hating eachother turn into this? One of the world's many mysteries would remain unanswered for nothing could answer the mystery of love.

"Cayden," Pepper rested her head against his collar bone. "Love was just a word before you showed it to me. My heart is and always will be yours." The innocent girl said softly.

Pepper was so happy he accepted what she said. The night was a bit chilly but she ceased to notice the cold nipping at her skin. "Sure, that'd be nice." Pepper replied with a smile though she didnt move her head with Cayden resting his chin on it. "Maybe I could make some cocoa or apple cider?" Warm drinks sounded amazing, better than the punch at the formal. "Thank you, for tonight. You're a great dancer." She finally moved her head from under his chin.

(New topic? I would make it but it's your dorm :D)

Pepper gave a nod of approval then followed Cayden excited to make some warm drinks and hang out with him. He abruptidlty stopped and she halted, almost running into him. Pepper gave a thankful smile as his jacket was placed over her shoulders, her cheeks turning even more red than the cold did. "Are you sure? I'm fine, really." She stuttered. The smell of his wonderful cologne filled the air around her and she honestly wanted this jacket to stay on her shoulders forever.