The Road Trip by Susan

For my story to work, you will need to forget that Hope has had a baby and 
that John is the father.

****

The Concept:

****

Set in the last few days of summer before their senior year, the teens decide 
to get away for a few days of fun. Mimi and Philip are now dating. Philip got 
dumped by Chloe and she is now dating Brady. Mimi and Philip only discovered 
that they liked each other after spending weeks together trying to break up 
Brady and Chloe. Shawn and Belle never got together and are still friends but 
they are now fighting more than they ever did before. They shared a kiss 
under the mistletoe at Christmas but Shawn asked Belle to forget it happened, 
saying that it was a mistake. Belle then started dating Alex, a senior who is 
the star player of the football team. Belle and Alex seem like the perfect 
couple, which is just making Shawn feel more jealous than he ever felt before.

**** 

The Prologue:

****

Belle, Shawn, Mimi and Philip were sitting in a booth in Dot.com. Mimi was 
sitting beside Philip, snuggled into him. Belle and Shawn sat opposite them, 
sitting as far apart from each other as possible.
Mimi: "I can't believe the summer is nearly over."
Belle: "Yeah, it went by so quick. I'm almost dreading going back to school. 
I mean, we'll be seniors. We'll actually have to decide about our future."
Philip: "We'll rule the school Belle, this is the year I've been waiting for. 
No one can push us around...instead, we can push the pathetic freshmen 
around!"
Shawn: Shawn high five Philip in agreement. "Oh yeah! We are so going to rule 
the halls" 
Mimi: "Um guys, you aren't bullies so don't start now."
Belle: "Yeah, if you guys turn into bullies then I won't be staying in your 
company."
Shawn: "Belle, you do realise that your lame threat is actually an incentive 
to turn into a bully, don't you?"
Belle: "Go to hell Shawn!"
Shawn: "Gladly...if it gets me away from you." Belle was about to say 
something when she was interrupted.
Mimi: "Can you guys please cut it out? Or do I need to give you two a time 
out? I mean, I do not want to spend my last few days of summer listening to 
you two fighting. I want to actually do something worthwhile, like go on a 
road trip."
Belle: "Mimi, I don't think a road trip is worth while, in fact, I think it's 
a lame idea."
Philip: I think it's a great idea."
Shawn: "Yeah Meems, it's great. The princess is probably just afraid to stray 
away from her luxurious life style. A road trip would be roughing it."
Belle: "I'm not afraid to rough it. I went camping with Alex and his parents 
for spring break."
Mimi: "Belle, you phoned me everyday complaining." Belle could feel Mimi, 
Philip and Shawn looking at her.
Belle: "Well, even if I did want to go on this lame trip, I couldn't. And 
it's not because I'm afraid to rough it. I have to spend time with Alex. He's 
going away to college soon and..."
Shawn: "Excuses, excuses. It would be a lot easier if you admitted that you 
don't like roughing it, in fact, it scares you." Mimi and Philip began to 
laugh.
Belle: Belle was becoming angry. "Okay Brady, I will go on this lame 
trip...only to prove to you that I can do without luxuries."
Mimi: Mimi jumped up and hugged Belle. "This is going to be so much fun"
Belle: "Yeah, well I'll also be able to spend time with Alex."
Shawn: Shawn looked directly at Belle. "What do you mean? Are you going or 
not?"
Belle: "Oh yeah, I'm going...but I'm sure Alex would love to go too."
Mimi: "Um great!"
Philip: "The more the merrier."
Shawn: "Yeah, that's great." Shawn stared at the table, trying to hide his 
disappointment. 

*****

Chapter 1

*****
Belle and Alex are lying on the sofa in the penthouse, making out. Alex is 
tall, well built with short light brown hair and amazing green eyes. He is 
wearing jeans and a plain red pullover sweater. Belle is wearing a short pink 
skirt and a white backless top. The final scenes of 'An Affair To Remember' 
flash across the TV screen, but Belle and Alex don't even notice. Suddenly, 
the door of the penthouse opens and Brady walks in. He stares at his little 
sister and Alex, still entangled in a passionate embrace.
Brady: He begins to laugh. "Well, it's lucky I not dad or you'd be grounded 
missy!"
Belle: "Brady!" She pushed Alex off her. He fell onto the floor, surprised.
Alex: "I think I should go." He pulled himself off the floor, into a standing 
position.
Belle: "Alex, you don't have to go. I'm sure Brady is heading upstairs." She 
shot an evil glance at Brady.
Brady: "Yep, I'm going up stairs so you can continue your little orgy." Brady 
began walking up the stairs but then stopped and turned to face Belle and 
Alex. "Oh yeah Belle, Chloe and I have decided we don't want to go on your 
lame road trip. Dad and Marlena will be away so we'd rather spend our time 
here, alone."
Belle: "Okay." Brady made his way up the stairs. There was silence until 
Brady's bedroom door slammed. "Thank God he's gone." Belle wrapped her arms 
around Alex's neck. She leaned in for a kiss. "Now, where were we?"
Alex: "What road trip?" Alex stepped away before Belle's lips met his.
Belle: "Oh, Mimi and Philip want to go on a road trip before summer is over."
Alex: "Are you going?"
Belle: "Well, yes, sort of." Alex looked hurt. "I know I said I'd spend time 
with you but I thought you would come too. I mean, I have to go. Shawn thinks 
I can't rough it but I'm going to prove to him that I can."
Alex: Alex sat on the sofa. "So Shawn's going?"
Belle: "Unfortunately." She sat beside Alex. "I really want you to come. 
Having you there would make me so happy. It would also stop me from killing 
Shawn."
Alex: Alex's eyes glared at Shawn's name. "Fine, I'll go. You know me, I live 
to make you happy."
Belle: She rested her head on his shoulder. "You do make me happy."
Alex: He put his arm around Belle. "You make me happy too. He leaned over and 
gently kissed the top of her head. Belle sighed as she snuggled into Alex.

****

Philip and Shawn are in Philip's home, playing pool. Philip shot a yellow 
ball into the pocket. 
Philip: "This road trip should be fun, provided that you and Belle don't kill 
each other."
Shawn: "I don't think there's any chance of that happening, now that Mr 
Perfect is coming along." Philip missed his next shot. He glanced at Shawn, 
noticing the jealousy glaring from his eyes.
Philip: "Shawn, what happened between you and Belle?" Shawn never looked up 
as he lined up his shot.
Shawn: "What do you mean?"
Philip: "You and Belle where getting so close and then after Christmas that 
changed." Shawn still never looked up.
*Flashback*
Belle and Shawn are standing on the balcony outside Tuscany. Belle is wearing 
a black spaghetti strapped dress that just fell below the knee. Her blonde 
hair was is loose bouncy curls. Shawn was wearing black pants, a purple shirt 
and a tie to match. He was smirking 
Belle: "God Shawn, you can be such a jerk at times." He pulled her close, 
pressing his lips against hers. Shawn could feel the blood pumping through 
his veins. He never felt more alive. He pulled away slowly. Belle stared at 
him, in shock, gasping for breath.
Belle: "What was that for?" She was smiling. Shawn pointed to above their 
heads. Mistletoe was hanging from canopy above the balcony. He walked into 
Tuscany, leaving Belle standing alone. Belle's smile disappeared.
*Flasakback ends*
Shawn potted a red ball and finally looked at Philip.
Shawn: "I guess Belle and I changed. It's not easy maintaining a close 
friendship when somebody's boyfriend doesn't like you."
Philip: "I guess that's what happened. I mean, come to think of it, Belle did 
start dating Alex just after Christmas. God that guy is such a jerk!"
Shawn: "Yeah." Shawn stared at the floor, hanging his head in shame. He hated 
to lie to Philip but he had to. Belle forgot about the kiss, now he had to 
forget about it.

****

Belle paced up and down the penthouse, occasionally glancing at her watch. 
She was wearing a baby pink sundress and her hair was in a french braid. 
There was a knock at the door. Belle opened it. Alex stood in front of her. 
She was about to throw her arms around him when she noticed that he hadn't 
packed a bag.
Belle: "What's wrong?"
Alex: Alex lead Belle over to the sofa. "We need to talk." Belle bit her lip 
nervously.
Belle: "You're dumping me aren't you? You don't want to have a pathetic high 
school girlfriend hanging about when you're at college, do you?"
Alex: Alex took Belle's hand in his. "Belle, I'm doing this for you." Belle 
suddenly stood up.
Belle: "Like hell you are!" She lifted his letterman jacket of the coat rack 
and handed it to him. "You can have this back. And I wish you all the luck in 
the future but right now I would prefer it if you left. I don't want to see 
you ever again."
Alex: "Belle, I am doing this for you." Alex followed Belle towards the door, 
which was opened. "I'm setting you free Belle."
Belle: "What do you mean?"
Alex: "Belle, ever since we started dating, I knew that you were trying to 
get over somebody. I tried to ignore it, I mean, I really love you and I 
thought the more I loved you the bigger the chance of you loving me back. But 
that's never going to happen. Not when your heart belongs to someone else. So 
I'm letting you go and hopefully, you'll get what your heart desires." 
Belle's eyes filled with tears. 
Belle: "I want you Alex."
Alex: "No you don't, and deep down you know it." He was about to walk out the 
front door when he turned to face Belle. "If we're meant to be, we'll find 
each other again." Alex kissed her cheek and walked away, fighting the urge 
to look back. Belle watched him go, the tears falling freely.

****

Mimi, Philip and Shawn waited at Mimi's house beside Philip's car for Belle. 
Belle walked towards them, slowly. She handed her bag to Philip.
Mimi: "Belle, what's wrong? Where's Alex?"
Belle: "He isn't coming, you see, we kinda broke up."
Philip: "Oh Belle." He sighed, taking Belle in his arms for a hug. As Philip 
and Mimi comforted Belle, Shawn turned his back to them and smiled. "This 
road trip just got interesting." He thought.

*****

Chapter 2

****

Philip drove along a small country road. Shawn sat up front, searching for an 
exit on the map that would lead back to the highway. Belle was resting her 
head on Mimi's shoulder. Mimi was gently running her fingers through Belle's 
hair.
Mimi: "Philip, sweetie, where are we?"
Philip: "Um, we're somewhere. I just took a wrong turning but we'll be back 
on the highway in no time." Mimi turned to Belle.
Mimi: "Can you believe these guys? We've been on the road for two hours and 
we're already lost." They past a sign saying 'Laura's Lunch Box, the next 
exit on the right'.
Belle: "Hey, there's a diner on the next turning. Maybe we should stop there 
for lunch and ask for directions."
Shawn & Philip: "We don't need directions."
Philip: "We know where we are."
Mimi: "So where are we?" They past a sign saying 'Welcome to Pittsville'.
Shawn: "We're in Pittsville." Belle and Mimi groaned. 
Belle: "I still think we should stop at the diner. I'm hungry."
Mimi: "Yeah, and I have to really go to the bathroom."
Philip: "Well I can pull over if you have to go."
Belle & Mimi: "Ew!"
Philip: "What did I say?"
Belle: "Philip, were you off the day we were told in biology the difference 
between boys and girls?"
Philip: "Huh?" Philip looked confused while Shawn fought the urge to smile. 
He failed.
Shawn: "Philip, maybe we should stop at the diner. I'm kinda hungry myself."
Philip: "Fine, but we are not asking for directions." More groans could be 
heard from the back seat.

****

Philip, Mimi, Shawn and Belle stood in the diner. It smelt of grease and the 
floor was covered in dirt. The chairs, tables and menus looked sticky. 
Shawn: "So what do you girls want?"
Mimi: "Anything that looks and smells eatable."
Belle: "Um Meems, I don't think they serve that here."
Mimi: "Well, anything that is dead and cooked will do me, I'm starving."
Philip: "What about you Belle?"
Belle: "Whatever they have on special, unless that is the special." Belle 
pointed to the old man sitting at the counter, eating something brown with 
grey spots.
Shawn: "That looks like the cafeteria meatloaf."
Philip: "Cool, I like that."
Mimi: "That's gross."
Shawn: "Thank God I don't have to kiss him."
Belle: "I second that thought. Come on Meems, it's adventure time."
Mimi: "What?"
Belle: "Let's check out the bathroom." Belle led Mimi towards the ladies 
room. Mimi looked worried and disgusted.

****

Mimi and Belle walked out of the bathroom and sat down at a booth, checking 
the seat before sitting on it. 
Belle: "Now that was an adventure."
Mimi: "I will never complain about the bathrooms in school. Compared to that 
bathroom, our school bathrooms look like that bathroom in Popular."
Belle: "And to think that I was dreading the camping part of this trip. The 
camp site will seem like a five star hotel compared to this dump."
Mimi: "You know Belle, I thought you would be more upset about breaking up 
with Alex."
Belle: "If I was at home alone I would have probably already cried a river 
but I don't want to ruin the trip. And I don't want to give Shawn a reason to 
tease me. I don't want him to see me in a pathetic state."
Mimi: "To be fair Belle, Shawn has teased or insulted you yet."
Belle: "That's because I haven't tried to have a conversation with him." 
Belle smiled. "I know you're right Mimi and he may have called a truce now 
but things will never be the same for Shawn and me. Just then the boys 
approached the booth. Shawn's eyes met Belle's eyes. They both looked away.

****

Shawn was driving along the road, with Philip beside him, reading the map. 
They had been driving for three hours after leaving the diner and they still 
weren't on the highway. Instead, they were driving through small town after 
small town. Mimi was sleeping, her head resting on Belle's lap. Belle was 
looking through a Bella magazine.
Philip: "You know, that diner food was kinda nice."
Shawn: "Yeah, it's amazing what you will eat when you're hungry enough." 
Suddenly the car began to make funny noises and then came to a complete stop.
Belle: "What was that?"
Shawn: "I think the car broke down."
Philip: "So what do we do now? We're stranded in the middle of nowhere. 
Philip, Belle and Shawn looked at each other, all their faces were panicked 
and puzzled.

****

Chapter 3

****

Belle and Mimi sat on the bonnet of the car, watching both Shawn and Philip 
pace up and down the road. Philip was trying to get a reception on his cell 
phone and was losing his patience.
Philip: "Ugh! This damn phone." He threw his phone down on the ground.
Belle: "Phil, throwing a hissy fit will not solve this problem any faster."
Philip: "No, but it sure does make me feel better."
Shawn: "Look, we only have one option here. It's already getting dark so I 
say we set up camp in those woods over there and then push the car to the 
nearest town in the morning."
Belle: "No way Brady, I'm not going into any woods. We have no idea what's in 
there. There could be bears, swamps with snakes in them..."
Mimi: "Ew! I'm with Belle on this one. There is no way I'm heading into those 
woods."
Shawn: "You girls are such scaredy cats."
Belle: "Oh yeah Brady, and you're so tough."
Shawn: "I'm tougher than you."
Belle: "Duh!"
Philip: "Look, Shawn was right about one thing. It's too dark to go to the 
next town."
Mimi: "So what do you suggest we do?"
Philip: "I think we should sleep in the car."
Mimi: "Fine by me."
Belle: Belle glanced at Shawn. "I guess it's better than going into the 
woods."
Shawn: Shawn glanced at Belle, their eyes meeting for a split second. "I 
guess it's okay."
Philip: "Great, Meems and I will sleep in the back and you two can have up 
front."
Shawn & Belle: "What?" They both stared at Philip, who was already climbing 
into the back seat.

****

Philip and Mimi were in the back seat, fast asleep. Belle was snuggled into 
the passenger seat like a little ball, reading a magazine. Shawn sat in the 
drivers' seat, lightly drumming his fingers against the steering wheel. He 
slowly looked at Belle, who was still reading a magazine. "Even in the middle 
of nowhere she still looks beautiful." He thought. He watched her chewing her 
bottom lip, drawing his attention to her soft, perfectly formed, pink lips. 
Shawn licked his lips as they suddenly felt dry. 
Shawn: "So I guess you are hating this."
Belle: Belle still never looked up from her magazine. "What? Being stuck here 
in a car with you? Of course I'm hating it but we all have to make 
sacrifices."
Shawn: Shawn faked a laugh to hide that he was hurt by her comment. "I 
actually meant having to go without your luxuries."
Belle: Belle put down her magazine and looked at Shawn. "Actually, I like it. 
It's like one big adventure." Shawn said nothing. "Yeah, like I'm really 
going to admit to you that I hate it. You're the reason I'm here, getting 
tortured just to prove I can go without luxuries." Belle thought.
Shawn: "I suppose you would miss your luxuries if Alex was here. You'd have 
to look perfect for him. I bet that he hasn't even seen you without make up 
on. Or maybe he did and that's why he dumped you."
Belle: "Why can't you leave Alex out of this? He's a great guy." Her eyes 
were filling with tears.
Shawn: "A great guy who only dates cheerleaders."
Belle: "Shawn, stop trying to pick a fight and admit what's really going on 
here between us."
Shawn: "There is no 'us' Belle."
Belle: "Yeah...I know and you made sure of that at Christmas." Before Shawn 
could say anything, Belle switched off her torch and turned her back to 
Shawn, pretending to be trying to sleep.

****

Early next morning Mimi, Philip, Belle and Shawn pushed the car to the 
nearest town, which was Bakers Creek. It was an extremely hot day. Mimi and 
Belle made the boys stop for a drink and to reapply sunscreen every once in a 
while. No one spoke, except for Mimi and Philip who continuously made jokes, 
trying to break the tension. Belle and Shawn only spoke when they had to, 
occasionally glancing at each other when they thought no one was looking. 

****

Mimi, Belle and Shawn stood outside the garage, waiting for Philip to give 
them the verdict. Philip came out of the garage.
Philip: "It will take a few days to fix, there's something wrong with the 
engine." Mimi rolled her eyes.
Mimi: "Gees, you amaze me with your knowledge of cars." Philip stared at 
Mimi, about to say something but he changed his mind and just smiled.
Belle: "Okay, so we don't have car for a few days. That isn't a major 
problem. So where's the nearest camp site?"
Philip: "About 20 miles away."
Belle: "Okay, THAT is a problem. So where are we going to stay?" Philip 
looked at Mimi, smiling.
Philip: "There's a motel with two rooms available." Mimi smiled and grabbed 
Belle's arm.
Mimi: "We need to talk." Mimi pulled Belle away from Philip and Shawn.
Belle: "Mimi, what's wrong?"
Mimi: "Philip and I want to share a room."
Belle: "No way Mimi, I'm not sharing a room with HIM!" Belle pointed over to 
Shawn who was engrossed in the same conversation.
Shawn: "No way Philip, I'm not sharing a room with the princess." Belle 
stormed over to Shawn and Philip, closely followed by Mimi.
Belle: "So did he ask you?"
Shawn: "Yep...and I'm not doing it! I'd rather sleep outside than share a 
room with HER!" He pointed to Belle.
Belle: "And I would rather streak at the Homecoming game than share a room 
with HIM! It's bad enough that I have to breath the same air as him!"
Mimi: Mimi laughed. "Oh my gosh, you two actually agree on something."
Belle: "Meems, I'm not doing it." 
Philip: "Well, it's up to you two to decide what you're doing, but Mimi and I 
have one room."
Mimi: "Yeah, so one of you has to either sleep outside or both of you share a 
room. It's your choice." Mimi and Philip smiled as Belle and Shawn shot evil 
glances at them and each other.

****
****

Chapter 4

****

Belle stood in the middle of the motel room, which was basic. It had a king 
size bed, a bathroom, a TV, a chair, a wardrobe and a small empty fridge. 
Belle placed her suitcase on the bed and opened it. "What I wouldn't do for a 
long hot bubble bath. But, I guess a shower will need to do." She thought. 
There was a knock at the door. She opened it. It was Shawn. He walked into 
the room, ignoring Belle's disgusted stare.
Shawn: Do you believe this town has no available rooms? Apparently, we 
arrived in town just in time for the stinking Bakers Creek festival."
Belle: "Well enjoy staying outside." Belle pushed Shawn towards the open 
door. "I mean, you did say you would stay outside before you would share a 
room with me, didn't you?"
Shawn: "And you also said you would streak at the Homecoming game before 
you'd share a room with me."
Belle: She rolled her eyes. "Fine, you can stay but I get the bed."
Shawn: "Gee, thanks for the invitation. And why do you have to get the bed?"
Belle: "Because I'm the girl."
Shawn: "Fine, take the bed you spoilt brat."
Belle: "I already did." Belle began unpacking as Shawn rolled his sleeping 
bag out onto the floor.
Shawn: "Philip and I are going to check out the town. Do you want to come?"
Belle: "No thanks, I'm going to take a shower. Anyway, why would I want to 
spend time with you when I don't need too?"
Shawn: "I was just being polite."
Belle: "Well it doesn't suit you." Belle continued unpacking.
Shawn: "Whatever." Belle didn't look up. "I'm going now." She still didn't 
look up. Shawn was out the door. Belle didn't look up until she heard the 
door close. She stared at the door, biting her bottom lip to stop herself 
from smiling.

****

Belle stood in the shower, hot, steaming water flowed over her body. She was 
trying to sing the latest Britney Spears song but she couldn't stop think 
about Shawn.
*Flashback*
Belle stood out on the balcony of Tuscany's as the Christmas party continued. 
She stared into the night sky, feeling the tears building up in her eyes. 
Shawn walked out onto the balcony.
Shawn: "Belle, are you going to tell me what is going on? One minute we're 
dancing and the next minute you're freaking out on me."
Belle: She turned to face him. "God Shawn, you are so dense." Shawn looked 
confused. "Have you even noticed that lately I have been dressing up for you? 
I mean, we flirt constantly and I thought my feelings for you weren't one 
sided, I thought you felt the same way and tonight I finally realised that 
they are one sided. I even turned down like ten guys because I was hoping 
you'd ask me to the Christmas Ball but instead you took Chloe because she 
needed a date as her college boyfriend wouldn't be caught dead at a high 
school dance. I had to go with Alex." Shawn stared at her smirking. "God! You 
are such a jerk!" She pushed Shawn. Shawn pulled her close to him for a slow 
yet passionate kiss. Belle felt like she was floating, never wanting the kiss 
to end.
*Flashback ends*
Belle turned off the water and wrapped a towel around her body before 
stepping out of the shower. "Of course Shawn only seen me as a friend. It was 
stupid to think I'd be anything more to him. It was just a kiss under the 
mistletoe, nothing more." Belle thought. Just then the bathroom door opened 
and Shawn stood in front of her. Belle was shocked.
Belle: "Shawn!" She made sure the towel was covering her as much as it could.
Shawn: "Sorry Belle, I thought you were out with Mimi." He stared at her bare 
legs. They were perfectly shaped and tan, he couldn't help wondering how they 
would feel around him.
Belle: "Shawn! Get out!"
Shawn: "Oh sorry." Shawn left the bathroom, knowing what he just saw would 
stay with him forever.

****
 
Belle sat on the bed, now dressed wearing navy shorts and a red vest top. Her 
blonde hair was in a neat ponytail. Shawn was sitting in the chair, watching 
TV.
Belle: "Shawn, can we talk?"
Shawn: "Sure." He switched off the TV. "What's up?"
Belle: "I think we should have some rules if we're going to share this room. 
Like knocking before we enter the bathroom saying there's no lock...and 
making sure you put the toilet seat down when you're finished you know...and 
I won't leave anything girly lying out and everything else we can make up as 
we go along. What do say?"
Shawn: "Sounds great."
Belle: "Oh, and we should make something to divide the room so we can have 
some privacy to change stuff."
Shawn: "Okay."
Belle: "Okay then." She held out her hand for Shawn to shake. Shawn took his 
hand in her hand. They could both feel the electricity surging through their 
body. Their eyes locked as they moved closer to kiss. Suddenly, Belle pulled 
away. 
Belle: "I gotta go." Shawn looked at her questionably. "To the store." She 
quickly added. "Do you want anything?"
Shawn: "No thanks." He looked at her, confused.
Belle: "Okay then." Belle lifted her purse and left the motel room, desperate 
for air. Shawn stared at the door after she left, smiling, realising that 
once again, things were changing between him and Belle, for the better.

****

Chapter 5

****

Belle stood in the snacks section of the small store, holding a basket in her 
hand. She placed a box of animal crackers in the basket. "Why can't I stop 
thinking about Shawn? Okay, so it felt amazing when he held my hand, that 
doesn't mean anything. He doesn't want me, even though I want him." Belle 
thought.
Belle: "Belle, forget about him, he hurt you before and he'll hurt you 
again." Shawn was standing behind her. 
Shawn: "Who are you trying to forget and why are you so sure he'll hurt you 
again?"
Belle: She turned to face him, blushing. "Oh, Shawn...hi. I was just thinking 
about Alex."
Shawn: "Oh." He avoided looking at Belle so she wouldn't see how hurt he was. 
Belle: "So what are you doing here?"
Shawn: He looked at Belle. "I changed my mind and decided I do need something 
from the store, like snacks. I'm an expert shopper when it comes to snacks." 
He lifted the box of animal crackers out of the basket. "And it looks like I 
came just in time. Animal crackers? What age are you Belle? Five years old?"
Belle: "I happen to like them." Belle snapped the box of crackers out of 
Shawn's hand and put it back in the basket.
Shawn: "This is a real snack Belle." He held up a pack of brownies.
Belle: "Shawn, they may taste good but a moment on the lips is a life time on 
the hips." Shawn looked at her hips.
Shawn: "I see what you mean. They do look like they've been abused by late 
night snacking. Maybe you should skip the crackers and go straight for the 
celery sticks." He looked in the basket, which already contained celery 
sticks. "I see you've already thought of that."
Belle: "God Shawn, you're such a jerk. And who's to say that snacks can't be 
healthy? Not everyone likes to pig out on junk food."
Shawn: "Hey, when I'm on vacation I like to indulge a little. Of course you 
won't 'cause it might spoil your perfect figure. Well newsflash Belle, some 
guys prefer a girl who likes to have fun and actually likes to indulge 
sometimes. Not everyone likes little Miss Perfect. In fact, she's boring and 
predictable."
Belle: "Well some girls actually like guys who don't tease them, or trash 
their eating habits or are just plain mean. Some girls actually want a nice 
guy, not a tough boy or a rebel."
Shawn: "Pris."
Belle: "Slob." Before Shawn could respond the girl behind the counter 
interrupted them.
Girl: "Would you two just sleep together and get over it!"
Shawn: Shawn and Belle turned to face the girl. "Excuse me?"
Girl: "It's so obvious that you're hot for each other. You could cut the 
sexual tension with a knife."
Belle: Belle blushed as Shawn laughed nervously. "Um...it's not like that, we 
hate each other."
Shawn: He looked at Belle. "You hate me?"
Belle: Belle looked at Shawn. "Well you hate me."
Shawn: "I don't hate you, I just find you really annoying."
Belle: "Okay." She turned to face the girl again. "We don't hate each other, 
we just don't get on."
Girl: "That's a pity. You make a cute couple. I thought you two were in town 
for the festival's perfect couple pageant. First prize is $1000."
Belle and Shawn laughed nervously.
Belle: "I don't think so."
Shawn: "Yeah, it's not gonna happen." He walked away, towards the potato chip 
section. Belle and the girl watched him go.
Girl: "Well, if you don't want him then I'll have him." Belle looked at the 
girl, jealousy glaring through her eyes.
Belle: "Hey!"
Girl: "Gee, for someone who doesn't get on with the cutie you sure are 
jealous." Belle looked at the girl and then at Shawn, who was trying to 
decide what potato chips to buy.

****

Belle sat down in the docks with Mimi, eating a sandwich as they watched the 
fishermen unload fish from their boats. Mimi looked at Belle, smiling.
Mimi: "So how's sharing with Shawn going?"
Belle: Belle looked at her friend. "You know, I shouldn't even be speaking to 
you after what you did. But, things are going okay. I mean, we haven't killed 
each other yet and we set some rules."
Mimi: "You set ground rules?"
Belle: "Yeah, their pretty basic. I mean, we had to after Shawn nearly walked 
in on me in the shower. Luckily, I had a towel on but it was pretty 
embarrassing. So, how's sharing with Philip?"
Mimi: "It's okay but it's not what I expected. I mean, the mystery is gone." 
Belle looked at her questionably. "He smells his socks before he puts them on 
and after he takes them off."
Belle: "Ew!"
Mimi: "I know."

****

Belle walked into the motel room to find Shawn standing in front of her, 
wearing only a towel. She stared at his bare chest, drips of water from his 
hair ran down his chest. Belle tore her eyes away from his chest and chewed 
her lower lip.
Belle: "Sorry." She walked behind Philip, Mimi and her sleeping bags that 
Shawn put up over a rope to divide the room for privacy.
Shawn: "It's okay. So do you have enough privacy?"
Belle: "Yeah, thanks for doing this." She could still see Shawn through the 
gaps in the sleeping bags. She chewed her lower lip, trying to look away but 
she couldn't.
Shawn: "Hey, the privacy benefits both of us." 
Belle: "Um yeah, look, I'm going to go to bed. Meems wants to go to the creek 
tomorrow so we should expect an early wake up call." She turned her back to 
the sleeping bags so she could change.
Shawn: "I'm going to bed anyway." Shawn watched through the gaps as Belle 
pulled a peach chemise over her bare back. "God, she's hot." Shawn thought, 
getting dressed himself.
Belle: "So um, I ran into the girl from the store again."
Shawn: "So what did she say this time?" He was finished getting dressed.
Belle; "She apologised for the misunderstanding. And now I'm apologising ."
Shawn: "What?" Belle stepped out from behind the sleeping bag. Shawn couldn't 
help but smile, she looked amazing.
Belle: "I hate going to bed with regrets and I really regret some of the 
things I said in the store so I'm sorry. I overreacted."
Shawn: "I'm sorry too for what happened at the store." Belle smiled. Shawn 
returned the smile.
Belle: "Good night Shawn."
Shawn: "Night Belle." Belle disappeared behind the sleeping bags while Shawn 
climbed into his sleeping bag, lying on the floor.

****

One hour later, Belle and Shawn were still not sleeping. Shawn tossed and 
turned, trying to get comfortable on the floor. Belle watched through the 
gaps in the sleeping bags. She got out of her bed and stepped out from behind 
the sleeping bags. 
Belle: "Shawn this is stupid. I mean, why should you sleep on the floor while 
I get the bed?"
Shawn: "Because you wanted it that way."
Belle: "Well I changed my mind. Shawn, we can be mature about this. It's a 
king size bed so there's plenty of room and it's not like we never shared a 
bed. We did it all the time when we were kids."
Shawn: "Are you sure?"
Belle: "Yeah...but I feel you touching me then I'll kick you out."
Shawn: "Don't worry, I'll not touch you." Shawn climbed out of his sleeping 
bag and followed Belle towards the bed.

****

Thirty minutes later, Belle was fast asleep. Shawn rolled onto his side, 
lifting his head and using his elbow to support it. He used his free hand to 
brush away hair that was covering Belle's face. 
Shawn: "I guess you're not the only one who can't sleep when they have 
regrets. You know what I regret? I regret kissing you under the mistletoe. We 
weren't ready for it. I wasn't ready for it. And there's only one thing I 
regret more. I regret telling you it meant nothing. Because it was a lie, it 
meant everything. I just got scared. I never knew I could feel something so 
intense and I didn't know how to handle my feelings for you. I got scared and 
I pushed you into Alex's arms, ruining everything. I just want you back 
Belle. I want us back." Shawn watched Belle sleep until he fell asleep 
himself.

****
****

Chapter 6

****

Shawn's eyes slowly opened as he began to wake up. His arms were wrapped 
around Belle, holding her close to his body, her back lying against his 
chest. He breathed in, taking in the scent of her hair. It smelt like 
vanilla. He smiled, gently moving away from Belle to lie on his back. He 
placed his hands behind his head and stared at the ceiling, still smiling. 
Belle rolled over, resting her head on Shawn's chest and wrapping her arm 
around his waist as she slept. Shawn looked at the long blonde hair, now 
covering his chest. He gently stroked her hair, feeling how soft it was. "If 
only I could wake up every morning with you beside me." He thought. "I'd be 
the happiest man alive."

****

Five minutes later, Belle began to wake up. She slowly lifted her head, 
beginning to blush when she realised who she was lying on.
Belle: "Sorry." She quickly ran her fingers over her lips.
Shawn: "Don't worry, you didn't drool." Belle's face was becoming redder by 
the minute. 
Belle: "You should have kicked me out of the bed, saying that was our no 
touching policy."
Shawn: "You weren't bothering me Belle." They were looking into each other's 
eyes. The silence only lasted a few seconds but it seemed like eternity for 
both Shawn and Belle. Belle stood up.
Belle: "We better get ready. Philip and Mimi will be here any minute."
Shawn: "Yeah." Belle headed towards the bathroom. She looked at Shawn and 
smiled before entering the bathroom. Shawn lied back again and stared at the 
ceiling, smiling.

****

Mimi and Philip sat under a tree on the banks of the creek, watching Belle 
and Shawn splash each other in the water. Philip was wearing black shorts and 
a yellow T - shirt. Mimi was wearing a white T - shirt over a red bikini. 
Belle was wearing a lilac bikini and Shawn was wearing navy swimming trunks.
Mimi: "Is it just me or are they actually getting along?"
Philip: "Well, they haven't insulted each other in front of us today."
Mimi: "I think something is going on with them. They seem too friendly."
Philip: "Mimi, they always were friends."
Mimi: "Yeah, but they used to snap at each other. Now they're just being nice 
to each other."
Philip: "Well Shawn mentioned that the fact that Alex didn't like him was the 
reason Belle and Shawn were having problems. Maybe all their problems are 
solved now that Alex is out of the picture."
Mimi: "I don't think so sweetie." Mimi took off her T - shirt as she noticed 
Shawn coming out of the creek. "I think you should get the scoop from Shawn 
to see why they're suddenly so close." Mimi stood up and walked towards the 
creek as Shawn walked towards Philip.
Mimi: "Hey Shawn." Mimi walked past Shawn.
Shawn: "Hi Meems."

****

Shawn and Philip watched as Belle and Mimi floated about in the creek.
Philip: "So you and Belle seem to be getting along."
Shawn: "Yeah, I guess." Shawn kept his eyes on Belle.
Philip: "Does this have anything to do with Alex being out of the picture?"
Shawn: "Belle and I just reached an understanding, that's all. She's still 
not over Alex. In fact, I caught her talking to herself about him in the 
store."
Philip: "Well, it has only been a few days. Unless of course, you want Belle 
to forget about Alex so you can date her."
Shawn: "Belle's just a friend." His eyes remained on her. "That's all."

****

Mimi and Philip were under the tree, making out. Belle and Shawn were in the 
water, splashing about. 
Shawn: "Belle, stop...you splash like a girl." 
Belle: "I am a girl." She continued to splash Shawn when suddenly Shawn 
grabbed her and pulled her under the water. Belle stood up, wiping her hair 
back out of her face while spitting out water. She noticed Shawn was nowhere 
to be seen. Belle looked around her, frantically. "Shawn! Shawn! Where are 
you? Shawn Douglas Brady, this isn't funny!" She felt something between her 
legs and she was suddenly scooped onto Shawn's shoulders. "Shawn! Put me 
down! Pu-lease!"
Shawn: "If that's what you want then fine." Shawn fell back into the water. 
Belle fell in too, making a big splash. She stood up in the water.
Belle: "Okay Brady, you're dead!"
Shawn: "You gotta catch me first." Shawn swam off. Belle followed. She caught 
up with him and ducked his head under water.
Shawn: "Hey!" Belle laughed, splashing Shawn. Shawn grabbed her hands to stop 
her splashing. Belle gradually stopped laughing as she stared into Shawn's 
eyes. Shawn moved his hand slowly towards Belle's face, wiping a strand of 
hair behind her ear. Belle suddenly ducked Shawn's head under the water again 
and swam off, leaving Shawn looking at her, confused.

****

Chapter 7

****

Shawn stood in the motel room, wearing black pants and a blue shirt. He was 
trying to do up his tie but was failing miserably.
Shawn: "Belle, tell me again why we are going to this dance." Belle was 
standing behind the sleeping bags that divided the room.
Belle: "We're going because it gives us something to do and the dance is 
supposed to be the highlight of the festival's celebrations. Belle stepped 
out form behind the sleeping bags and posed for Shawn. Shawn's eyes nearly 
popped out of his head at the sight of her. She was wearing a white, 
sleeveless dress that fell to just about the knee and had a high neckline. 
Her hair was pinned up in tight curls. 
Belle; "What do you think?"
Shawn: "Wow!" Belle smiled.
Belle: "That's just the reaction I wanted." She walked towards Shawn and 
began to do up his tie. She could feel Shawn staring at her but she kept her 
eyes on the tie.
Shawn: "You look beautiful." He said it in almost a whisper. Belle stopped 
breathing for a few seconds as she felt the warmth of his breath on her neck. 
She looked at him, straightening his tie.
Belle: "You don't look to bad yourself."
Shawn: "I guess I should thank Philip for lending me this stuff. Why did you 
guys pack formal wear anyway? We were only meant to go camping."
Belle: "Because Mimi and I always pack for every possible occasion and Philip 
is just Philip. His wardrobe is filled with formal wear. I think he's the 
only teenager that feels comfortable wearing a tie." Shawn laughed.
Shawn: "That does make since." There was silence as Shawn and Belle stared 
into each other's eyes. "So Miss Black, are you ready to go to the ball?" He 
held out his hand for Belle to take.
Belle: "Of course Mr Brady." She slipped her hand in his. They both smiled as 
they walked out of the motel room.

****

Belle and Shawn stood at the refreshments table in the marquee where the 
dance was being held. Both of them looked awkward and nervous, never saying a 
word to each other. People danced around them, including Philip and Mimi. 
'Obvious' by Christina Aguilera played. The girl from the grocery store 
walked towards them with a guy. The girl was wearing a long sleeveless black 
dress with a scoop neck. Her long black curly hair hung down naturally. The 
guy was tall, well built with short blond hair and grey eyes. He was wearing 
black pants and a grey shirt.
Girl: "Hi guys, do you remember me? Charlene from the store?"
Shawn: "Of course we do." Shawn was relieved that someone had interrupted the 
awkwardness between Belle and him. 
Belle: "How could we forget?" Charlene glared at Belle.
Shawn: "I'm Shawn and this is Belle." Shawn was trying to break up the 
tension between Belle and Charlene.
Charlene: "Well hi there. This is my friend Chad."
Belle: "Hi."
Chad: "Hey!"
Charlene: "Oh Shawn, I love this song, we have to dance to it." She grabbed 
Shawn's hand.
Shawn: "Um...I don't think..."
Charlene: "Belle doesn't mind." She pulled Shawn onto the dance floor. Shawn 
looked at Belle, his eyes pleading with her to rescue him. Belle ignored him 
and turned to Chad.
Belle: "So Chad, do you want to dance?"
Chad: "Um sure." Chad followed Belle onto the dance floor, keeping a watchful 
eye on Charlene.

****

Thirty minutes later, Belle was sitting in the corner with Chad as Shawn 
continued to dance with Charlene. Occasionally Shawn would look at Belle, 
hoping she would come and rescue him but she was too engrossed in her 
conversation with Chad. Chad kept his eyes on Charlene the whole time. 'All 
Star' by Smashmouth played.
Belle: "So you like Charlene, don't you?"
Chad: "Yeah, she's a great friend." He looked at Belle.
Belle: "Just a friend, huh?"
Chad: "Okay, I like her as more than a friend. How did you guess?"
Belle: "You haven't taken your eyes off her. So have you told her yet?"
Chad: "Are you kidding? All I am to her is a friend."
Belle: "Maybe you should tell her. Unrequited love can eat you alive if 
you're not carefully."
Chad: "Sounds like you're talking from experience."
Belle: "Kind of." 
Chad: "So what happened?"
Belle: "Well, after weeks of spelling it out for him, he still never got it 
because he can be so dense. Anyway, one Christmas he kissed me under the 
mistletoe."
Chad: "And you felt nothing?"
Belle: "No, I felt everything. Every moment we shared...every touch but he 
obviously didn't feel the same. He wanted me to forget it ever happened."
*Flashback*
Belle walked into Dot.com and walked towards the booth that Shawn was sitting 
in. She smiled and sat down opposite him.
Belle: "So Shawn, here I am. What do you want to talk to me about?" She was 
still smiling.
Shawn: "It's about the kiss." Belle nodded, still smiling. "You do realise 
that it was just a kiss under the mistletoe, don't you?"
Belle: "Um...yeah, of course." Her smile was disappearing.
Shawn: "So I think it's best that we forget it ever happened."
Belle: "It's already forgotten." She stood up, her eyes beginning to fill 
with tears. Shawn stared at the table so he wouldn't need to look at Belle. 
"I think I better go now."
Shawn: "Okay." He still never looked at Belle. Belle walked away. As she left 
Dot.com, she bumped into someone. Her tears were beginning to fall.
Belle: "Oh, sorry." 
Alex: "Belle, are you okay?"
Belle: "No, actually, I'm not. Can you take me home Alex?"
Alex: "Of course."
*Flashback ends*
Chad: "It sounds like you really got hurt. And that's why I don't want to 
tell Charlene. I don't want to feel hurt like that."
Belle: "That's just it Chad. I did feel hurt but now I'm relieved it happened 
because now I know how he feels. There's nothing worse than having to spend 
the rest of your life wondering what if?"
Chad: "I guess you're right Belle. I think I need to tell her." Belle and 
Chad looked over at Shawn and Charlene dancing. Shawn and Charlene looked at 
Belle and Chad. Their eyes locked, waiting and wondering about what was 
happening between them.

****

Chapter 8

****

Belle and Chad sat in the corner, their eyes locked on Shawn and Charlene, 
who were looking at them. 'All Star' by Smashmouth continued to play.
Belle: "Chad, what are you going to do?" He looked at Belle and took a hold 
of her hand.
Chad: "I'm going to tell her right now."
Belle: "You can't do it right now, in front of all these people." Belle 
followed Chad onto the dance floor. 'You' by Shelby Starner began to play as 
they approached Shawn and Charlene.
Chad; "Charlene, can we talk outside?"
Charlene: "Chad, I'm dancing with Shawn."
Shawn: "It's really okay...go and talk." He sounded relieved.
Belle: "Yeah, I was gonna cut in anyway."
Charlene: "Okay." She looked unsure and nervous as she followed Chad outside. 
Belle watched them go. Shawn wrapped his strong arms around Belle's waist, 
pulling her close.
Shawn: "What took you so long to rescue me?" Belle smiled and wrapped her 
arms around Shawn's neck.
Belle: "You looked like you were having fun."
Shawn: "Well looks can be deceiving."
Belle: "I'm only kidding. I had to play Dear Abby to Chad."
Shawn: "Why? What's up?" Belle looked into Shawn's eyes, which reflected a 
mix of jealousy and concern. She smiled.
Belle: "You shouldn't be worried, unless you also have a thing for Charlene."
Shawn: "Of course I don't." Belle rested her head on Shawn's shoulder. Shawn 
buried his face in Belle's hair, smelling it as he placed his hands on the 
small of her back, fighting the urge to kiss her. "Philip informed me that 
the motel has a Jacuzzi on the roof. Do you fancy checking it out later?" 
Shawn whispered.
Belle: "Um...that sounds good." She sighed as she snuggled into Shawn's 
strong chest.

****

Belle stood at the refreshments table, pouring herself a glass of punch. She 
glanced occasionally at Shawn, who sat at a table with Mimi and Philip. 
'Pretty Deep' by Tanya Donnelly played. Her eyes drifted from Shawn to 
Charlene who was approaching her. Belle couldn't make out if Charlene was 
happy or not. Charlene threw her arms around Belle for a hug, taking Belle by 
surprise. Charlene pulled away.
Charlene: "Chad told me what you did and I had to thank you."
Belle: "So you're happy?"
Charlene: "Of course I am. I've loved Chad for like forever. I tried making 
him jealous by flirting with guys like Shawn but I guess he was extremely 
dense. I guess it took a city gal to wake him up and admit it. Thanks Belle."
Belle: "It was no problem." Charlene was about to leave when she stopped.
Charlene: "You know, Shawn seems pretty dense too. Maybe you should take your 
own advice." Belle said nothing. "Look, I better go. Chad is waiting outside. 
Thanks again Belle.
Belle: "No, thank you Charlene." Charlene walked away as Belle looked at 
Shawn, her fingers nervously tapping against her glass. Shawn stood up from 
the table where Mimi and Philip sat as 'All I Want' by Toad The Wet Sprocket 
began to play. He walked towards Belle.
Shawn: "So Belle, do you want to check out the Jacuzzi?" His voice was warm 
and gentle. Belle looked into his eyes.
Belle: "Sure." She placed her glass on the table and took a hold of his hand.

****

Belle and Shawn sat in opposite ends of the Jacuzzi. Shawn tried to ignore 
how fabulous Belle looked in her lilac bikini, showing off her perfect body. 
Belle was resting her head against the Jacuzzi, staring up at the stars, 
saying nothing.
Shawn: "Belle, what's wrong?" Belle looked at Shawn.
Belle: "What makes you think anything is wrong?"
Shawn: "You haven't spoken to me since we left the dance. If something is 
bothering you, you can tell me. I'll always be here for you perfect girl."
Belle: "You called me perfect girl...you haven't done that since before..."
Shawn: "I know." He moved towards Belle, placing his hands on either side of 
her. His face was just a few centimetres away from Belle's. He stared into 
her eyes.
Belle: "Shawn...what are you doing?" She was breathing deeply.
Shawn: "Something that I wanted to do all night." It escaped Shawn's lips as 
a whisper. "No actually, I wanted to do this for the last eight months." He 
slowly pressed his lips against Belle's. He could feel the blood rush through 
his veins, making him feel more alive as the kiss continued, growing more 
passionate and intense by the second. Belle's fingers slowly ran through 
Shawn's hair. Suddenly, Belle's free hand pressed against Shawn's chest, 
pushing him away. Shawn stared at Belle, stunned.
Belle: "I'm sorry Shawn but this can't happen...I can't let it happen." Her 
eyes were filling with tears as she climbed out of the Jacuzzi and ran away. 
Shawn watched her go, stunned and confused by what just happened.

****

****

Chapter 9

****

Belle stood in the motel room, packing her suitcase. She was no longer 
wearing her lilac bikini; instead she was ready for bed, wearing her peach 
silk chemise. Her hair was hanging down naturally. The motel door opened and 
Shawn walked in. Belle continued to pack, refusing to look up and see him. 
Shawn stood at the chair near the bed.
Shawn: "So are we ever going to talk about what happened tonight?"
Belle: "There is nothing to talk about Shawn." She still never looked up.
Shawn: "Belle, we kissed. You can't just ignore that."
Belle: "Yes I can Shawn." She finally looked at him. "I promised myself that 
I would never put myself in a vulnerable state with you again. It shouldn't 
have happened. I shouldn't have let you kiss me again, only for you to take 
it away and say it meant nothing." Tears were now beginning to fall down 
Belle's cheeks. Shawn walked towards her.
Shawn: "I would never do that Belle."
Belle: "You did it at Christmas. How can I let you into my heart again when I 
keep waiting for you to turn around and say it was a mistake or it meant 
nothing?" 
Shawn: "You have to trust me on this Belle."
Belle: "That's just it Shawn, I can't trust you." She wiped away a tear. 
Shawn: "Belle, I know I handled our first kiss wrong. I know I pushed you 
away and I truly regret the way I handled everything. But I was scared."
Belle: "How could you possibly be scared of me?" A fresh tear rolled down her 
cheek. 
Shawn: "I was afraid of my feelings for you. When we kissed, I never expected 
to feel so amazing…so alive. You were my best friend, I never expected to 
feel something so intense for you. When we kissed, I could see our whole 
lives together, the past and the present. I freaked out. I didn't want to 
risk losing you and I thought I would if we began dating as I would because 
I'd end up hurting you."
Belle: "Yeah, well you ended up hurting me anyway." She wiped away the tears.
Shawn: "I know that now. For so long I wanted to turn back time and take back 
taking back that kiss. I wanted to tell you how much you mean to me and how 
much I want to be with you but I couldn't because my cowardly actions pushed 
you into the arms of Alex. So I'm telling you now Belle I…" Belle placed her 
finger on Shawn's lips, trying to make him stop.
Belle: "Shawn, don't say it. If you say it then you can never take it back." 
Shawn removed Belle's finger, holding her small delicate hand in his hand.
Shawn: "I don't want to take it back." Belle looked at him, her eyes pleading 
with him to stop. "I love you Belle Black. I have ever since I saw you my 
first day back in Salem at the hospital and I always will." Fresh tears began 
to roll down Belle's cheeks. "Oh Belle, please don't cry. This isn't the 
response I wanted." Shawn cupped her face in his hands, wiping away the 
tears. 
Belle: "Oh Shawn, I love you too." She pulled him close, placing her lips on 
his. The kiss grew more intense and passionate as the seconds passed. Both 
Belle and Shawn never wanted it to end, fearing that they would lose each 
other again.

****

Shawn slowly began to open his eyes, adjusting to the brightness of the sun 
that was now shining in the motel room. He smiled remembering the details of 
last night. He and Belle kissed for what almost seemed like forever until 
they fell asleep in each other's arms. He looked over, expecting to find 
Belle's beautiful sleeping face beside him, but no one was there. "Belle." He 
called, thinking she was in the bathroom. But there was no reply. Belle was 
gone.

****

Chapter 10

****

Belle sat at the docks, dangling her feet over the edge of the pier. She was 
wearing jeans and a powder blue halter-top. Her blonde hair was hanging down 
in loose bouncy curls. She stared out into the sea. Chad walked up behind her.
Chad: "Hey." Belle looked behind her, forcing a smile.
Belle: "Hi Chad."
Chad: "I never expected to find you sitting here so early in the morning. I 
thought city gals slept until noon when they were on vacation."
Belle: "Yeah, normally."
Chad: "So can I sit down?"
Belle: "Oh yeah, of course." Chad sat down beside Belle.
Chad: "So Charlene and I were wondering if you and Shawn wanted to catch a 
movie tonight. You know, saying you and Shawn were responsible for us getting 
together."
Belle: Belle looked at Chad. "Thanks for the invite but um, we're leaving 
today. Philip told me last night that the car is fixed."
Chad: "So you're finally taking your road trip."
Belle: "No, school starts in like two days so we're heading home."
Chad: "That's a bummer. So I guess we'll never see you again."
Belle: "Are you kidding? I have to come back and visit to check on you and 
Charlene."
Chad: "Good, because I'm sure Charlene will want to check on you and Shawn." 
Belle looked away from Chad and stared out at the sea. "I'm guessing you 
didn't take your own advice when it comes to Shawn."
Belle: "Last night Shawn kissed me." Belle looked at Chad. She looked worried 
and unsure.
Chad: "That's great, isn't it?" Belle didn't answer. "Belle, he didn't take 
the kiss back did he?"
Belle: "No, in fact, he told me he loved me."
Chad: "That's good, isn't it?" Belle bit her lower lip. "You don't feel the 
same?"
Belle: "No, I do. I've loved Shawn since he rescued me at this lame dance 
during my sophomore year…and maybe even before then."
Chad: "So what's the problem?"
Belle: "I don't know. I spent the most wonderful night sleeping in the arms 
of the man I love. I should feel happy. I shouldn't be thinking about my old 
boyfriend. I shouldn't be thinking that I need to take things slow with Shawn 
because I'm not over my old boyfriend. I just can't forget my feelings for 
Alex straight away. I really liked him."
Chad: "Belle, what you should feel and what you actually do feel are two 
completely different things. Have you told Shawn how you feel?"
Belle: "Are you kidding? It took me nearly two years to tell him that I love 
him. I can't just turn around and say I think we should take things slow."
Chad: "Belle, you can't wait another two years. He deserves to know how you 
feel. If you can't be honest with him now, what does that say about your 
relationship?" Belle looked away from Chad and stared out to sea, deep in 
thought.

**** 

Shawn paced up and down the motel room. He was wearing jeans and a black 
T-shirt. He ran his fingers through his hair, wondering if he should go 
looking for Belle. At first he thought she just went to get breakfast but she 
was gone for at least four hours. "Where are you Belle?" Shawn asked aloud.
Belle: "I'm right here." Shawn turned to face Belle who was standing at the 
door.
Shawn: "Belle, where were you?" Shawn pulled her close to him for a hug.
Belle: "I had a lot of thinking to do." Shawn released her from his hold.
Shawn: "Is something wrong?" Belle could feel the tears building up in her 
eyes as she looked into Shawn's deep brown eyes, which shimmered with concern.
Belle: "Shawn, we have to talk."
Shawn: "About what?" 
Belle: "About us. About how I can't do this now. I can't be with you the way 
you want me to be with you."
Shawn: "I don't understand. I thought you loved me."
Belle: "I do love you…that's why I'm doing this. Shawn, I really want to be 
with you but I need time. I just broke up with Alex three days ago, I'm not 
ready for a full on relationship again. And I don't want you to be my rebound 
guy, that's why I need to take things slow. You do understand, don't you?" 
Shawn looked at Belle, saying nothing. Belle could feel a tear rolling down 
her cheek. "Shawn…please say something." Shawn cupped his hands around 
Belle's face.
Shawn: "Belle…I'm not gonna lose you again. And if you want time I can give 
you time. I just don't want to have to wait eight months to kiss you again."
Belle: "You won't have to." Shawn smiled.
Shawn: "You promise?"  Belle took Shawn's hand off her cheek and held it in 
her own delicate hand.
Belle: "I promise."

****

Belle and Mimi were loading the bags into the trunk of the car while Shawn 
and Philip talked to the man in the garage.
Mimi: "I guess you were right Belle. This road trip was lame after all. I 
mean, we only spent five hours on the road. I'm sorry I dragged you along."
Belle: "Meems, it's okay. The road trip wasn't lame at all, in fact, it was 
amazing." Mimi looked at Belle puzzled as Belle looked at Shawn, smiling. 
Shawn looked at her, returning the smile. "Yep, it was definitively amazing."

**** 

The End…Or Is It?