Dances of Angels
By: Dana Lynn
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Chapter 7
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Dakota watched as Justin and Joey brought out the necessities for their one of a kind barbeque. She couldn’t believe she told Justin about her parents. She hadn’t told anyone in a really long time. Courtney was the only person that really knew, and even she didn’t know first hand. All the people that she had known at the time were gone. Out of her life for good, whether if that was what she wanted or not.

“You ok?” a voice interrupted her thoughts. Dakota jumped slightly and looked into JC’s wondering eyes. “I’m fine.” She fibbed. “Ya sure?” JC asked, worried. She smiled. “Positive.” ‘Fine. She thought to herself. ‘Just fine.’ Maybe in time, she’d actually believe that herself.

Lance grabbed a burger and headed back over to the shade where he and Courtney had sat. He thought of her glowingly. How could he still feel this way after all this time. It had been years since he’d first met her, but even then, he knew she was different. Different in the best way possible. He’d once almost asked JC to fix them up, but he wouldn’t want to put him in that position. Why was he even thinking of her this way? What would JC say? What…? ‘Pull yourself together, Lance… Pull it together.’ Why did he consistently worry about things beyond his control? One thing he knew for sure though. This time, he would not let her get away. Not again, not after all this time.

Courtney watched as Lance came closer to her. God, what had she done to deserve this torture! The torture of holding the feelings in…what could be worse? Ok, well, a lot of things. But at this particular moment, this was the worst feeling possible.

“Here ya go.” He smiled, handing her down a cheeseburger. “Thanks” she smiled. He sat down beside her and followed her gaze towards JC and Dakota. “I haven’t seen him that happy in awhile.” Lance smiled. “He’s been sad?” Courtney asked, surprised. “Not necessarily sad, but he’s glowing now!” he said excitedly. “I guess I haven’t really seen him in awhile to know” she said somberly.

Lance could have kicked himself. He hated seeing her upset. “That’s not your fault” Lance reasoned.
“I know, but I still wish I could have kept in touch more” she smiled lightly. “There’s no use dwelling in the past, Court. Just aim to make things better in the future. That’s all anyone can do.”

What was he talking about now? Was he talking about him and her, or still JC? He felt confused. Women! What a phenomenon!!

Dakota finished off the last bite of her cheeseburger and walked towards the patio door to head inside. That’s where she ran into Justin. She smiled as she walked towards him. “Justin… about earlier…” she started, facing him. “can you, not tell anyone what I told you?” she asked.

Justin searched her eyes, looking for any sign that she might open up to him, but quickly squashed his curiosity.
“Absolutely. It’s forgotten.” He said smiling. “Good. Thanks Justin.” She smiled.

Justin nodded as he handed her a bottled water and they both headed back outside. Before opening the door he quickly turned, startling her.

“D, if you ever need to talk, I’m here to listen, alright?” he said, finally being able to find the right words to say. Dakota smiled. “That means a lot. Thank you.” She said, rubbing his shoulder. “Anytime”, he smiled back. “Anytime at all.”

JC watched her emerge from the kitchen with Justin smiling and laughing as she got closer and closer. He didn’t know what to do where she was concerned. Would Courtney have a problem with him going for Dakota? He looked over at Courtney, where she sat, basking in Lance’s attention. ‘I don’t think she’d even notice!’ he chuckled to himself.

“What are you smiling for?” she laughed, re-claiming the seat next to him. He smiled back at her, letting her beauty sink in once more. “Nothin’. Just Courtney and Lance over there.” He continued. Dakota looked over towards where their friends were sitting and chatting away.
“Yeah, it looks like she’s having a good time!” Dakota laughed.

“And what about you? Are you having a good time?” JC asked. A smile remained on her lips. “Yes, I’m having a wonderful time.” She answered. “Good. I’m glad.” He smiled.

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