The next morning, Talan’s internal clock forced him up at an early hour. It was Friday, and he had school. But he really didn’t want to go today. He felt sore from his little engagement with Babs, and had a slight headache. He realized he wasn’t in his bedroom, then remembered what happened last night.

As he was coming to, he fought the urge get up and gave his pillow a small squeeze, which elicited a response.

Huh? Pillows don’t yawn... Talan thought as he rubbed his eyes.

To his shock, he wasn’t alone. Sleeping next to him on the couch was one of the teenage girls he had come to know and like. Aria lay on her side, seemingly still asleep. Talan realized he had been hugging her, and tried not to make any sudden movements. He gently pulled his arm free and went to get up.

“Morning sleepyhead,” Aria whispered with one eye closed.

She smirked down at him, no doubt finding it hilarious.

“Uh, hey Aria...” Talan said.

Aria stretched with another yawn, “You like hugging your pillows? Or do you sleep with stuffed animals?”

“Har har,” Talan said. “I wasn’t supposed to fall asleep like that. Sorry.”

Aria sat up and yawned again, “Don’t be sorry, I woke up and you were asleep right here. You gave me this blanket?”

“Yeah,” Talan said. “Didn’t want you to be cold. The AC can make it chilly in the house sometimes.”

“Well, I appreciate it,” Aria said. “Which is why I returned the favor. I wasn’t about to leave you alone, especially not after Adagio’s little stunt.”

Talan frowned, “What was that about?”

“I don’t know,” Aria said, “But if Sonata isn’t back yet, then we might have a problem. She told me to look after you. But she didn’t need to say it.”

Talan smiled, “So we wait for her to get back?”

“Yeah,” Aria said. “I’m gonna take a shower, then I’ll make us some breakfast. You’ve got school later.”

“Eh, I think I’m gonna take a sick day. I don’t feel good.”

“Talan...” Aria admonished. “Don’t start this... Sonata won’t be happy.”

Talan raised an eyebrow, “I’m not starting anything, I’ve got a set amount of sick days I can take each semester. We all do. Besides, I’m not missing much, and I can work and study from here. I’ve got work I can do.”

Aria shrugged, “Well, when you put it like that, whatever.” she said with a laugh. “Still going to have to run it by Sonata.”

“Fine,” Talan said. “I’ll be in the kitchen”

“Right,” Aria said as she went upstairs.

After about an hour, Sonata arrived and pulled into the driveway. Talan and Aria were eating breakfast when she walked in. She looked normal, if a little tired.

“So what happened?” Aria asked.

Sonata took a deep breath and looked at Talan, “Hey, I’m sorry for leaving you alone with Aria last night. I didn’t mean to disappear like that all of sudden. But it’s something I had to do.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Talan replied. “Just, is everything alright?”

Sonata smiled and rubbed his shoulder, “Yes, everything is fine. But I need to talk to Aria alone for a minute. Go upstairs and get ready for school.”

“He’s not going today,” Aria said. “He’s got a pretty bad headache, and didn’t get much sleep.”

“Is that true?” Sonata asked.

Talan, who saw the support Aria was giving him, simply nodded. “Yeah, it’s a Friday, so not much is going on. I think I’ll just study and get some work done here for today.”

“They let them have sick days they’re allowed to miss,” Aria said. “He hasn’t used any, so I see no harm in it.”

“Yeah,” Sonata said after a moment’s contemplation. “Whatever, just one thing before you go. Aria and I are going to be gone most of the day. Will you be alright by yourself?”

“Well, I was going to see if I felt better later, then after the work was done I was maybe gonna go out somewhere with Babs... if that’s alright.”

“You’re skipping school but you’re fine for a date later?” Sonata asked.

“C’mon Sonata,” Aria said. “Let the little guy have some fun, don’t you trust him?”

“Yeah, I do...” Sonata said with a small smile. “Just be responsible, Talan.”

“I will, thanks Sonata. I’ll leave you two alone now.”

After Talan went upstairs and they heard his door shut, Aria and Sonata went outside to the gardens, just to make sure he couldn’t hear them.

“So what’s going on?” Aria asked.

“Adagio is... sorry she did that to us, she wanted to prove a point.” Sonata said.

“What point would that be?” Aria asked. “If she does that again, I’m going to remind her she’s not the only Siren who can do something unique with her voice.”

“Her point was that we’re distracted, and not just with Talan. Years ago she never would have been able to get the drop on us like that. She apologized, and I suspect she’ll apologize to you when we see her next. She wants to practice again today. Just to make sure we’re on the same page. There’s only a few days left until the battle.”

Aria glared at Sonata, “And you believe her?”

Sonata shrugged, “No, not really. But what can we do? She’s strong, Aria. She always has been. And, honestly, I do really want to go home.”

Aria couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Of course she wanted to go home, too. But this mistreatment was starting to be too much. “So do I, but Adagio is really pushing it here. What about him, huh?” she asked, pointing up to Talan’s bedroom. “Still going to protect him if something goes awry?”

Sonata leaned on her hip, “You assured me it wouldn’t, now you’re concerned about him as much as I am?”

“Yes!” Aria said, “Don’t you feel different, Sonata? I don’t know what it is, but I feel strange whenever I’m spending time with him. It’s like something empty being filled up. Something that I was lacking, and finally being made whole again.”

“Yeah, I felt it. I’ve actually considered asking Sunset about it... she is a pony, remember.”

“What would she know? The ponies barely know anything about us, Sonata. You know that.” Aria said with a roll of her eyes. “She can’t help us.”

“We’re leaving in about an hour for practice,” Sonata said. “When we see Adagio, we’re going to put this to bed. One way or another.”

“I’m with you on that,” Aria said as they both walked into the house. “Adagio does not want to see me angry.”

After Sonata opened Talan’s door to let him know they were leaving, Talan spent the remainder of the afternoon getting his work done and making some powerpoints for studying later. After he was done with that, he decided to plan out his evening with Babs. That is, if she was willing to hang out with him.

“Nah, took the day off,” Talan said. “Felt a little sore from our scuffle yesterday.”

“What a cream puff,” Babs said with a giggle. “I barely touched you.”

“Tell that to my future kids,” Talan said with an amused chuckle.

“Yeah, sorry bout that.” Babs said. “So, what’s up?”

“Well, I was wondering if you wanted to hang out tonight?” Talan asked. “I was thinking I take you to a movie.”

“Sure, dude,” Babs said. “Sounds like fun, but it’ll have to be after five. Pool is being opened so I have to stick around til the guys are done filling it and getting it ready.”

“Oh, eager to swim are you?” Talan asked.

“You got no idea, Tally.” Babs said. “I love it. After the movie, you and I should work out a little, then go for a dip. Sound good?”

“You think I’d turn down seeing you in a bikini?” Talan asked.

“Who says I’m going to wear that?” Babs fired back.

Talan paused, then whispered, “Might be out of line, but you don’t exactly seem like a girl who wouldn’t flaunt a body like that... but I could be wrong.”

Babs whispered her reply, “You’re not...”

“Well then,” Talan said. “I’ll come get you after five. Talk to you later.”

“Wait, how are we gonna get there? I can’t drive, can you?”

“No, but I’ve got it taken care of,” Talan said.

“Alright dude. See ya later.” Babs said.

Talan grinned and took a deep breath. He probably should have planned the ride out before asking Babs, but it was too late now.

He looked at the time, realizing it was still evening in Europe. He went down to his father’s study and sat at his desk. Talan made an international call and hoped his father would pick up. After a few rings, he was relieved to hear his voice.

“That you, son?” he asked. “Hope the house isn’t burning or something.”

“Hey dad, and no nothing like that.”

He waited until his father stopped laughing to make the pitch.

“So, hows Sonata treating you, pretty good?” he asked.

“Yeah, it’s okay. How’s things with mom?”

“She’s fine, we’re almost done with the business stuff. About another week of that, then the fun stuff. Anything interesting happen over there?”

“As a matter of fact, yes...” Talan said. “I’ve met two new girls, one is Sonata’s friend, the other is a girl my age who just moved in.”

There was silence on the other end, then his father answered, “Go on...”

“Her name is Babs, and she just moved here from New York. I met her in the park while coming back from school.”

“Dating material?” his father asked. He was always wanting Talan to go out and mingle with girls. However, he never forced the issue, something Talan appreciated.

“Well, I dunno about that yet,” Talan said. “But I do want to go on a date with her tonight. Which is why I’m calling. Can I borrow Wesley?”

Mr. Wesley was his father’s driver. While Talan’s dad often used his own car for transportation, he and other executives had a driver for certain meetings and situations. Mr. Wesley usually only worked for him, and was a resource that Talan was told he could use in the event of an emergency, if he need a ride anywhere.

“Can’t Sonata take you?” his father asked.

Talan was afraid he’d say that, “Well, she’s gone to band practice with her friend when the movie is happening. It’s only like an hour, but still.”

Talan could hear his father get up and open a door. He knew what was happening.

“Alright kiddo, I had to get away from your mother. You know his number, right? It’s in my desk.”

“Yep, I’m there right now,” Talan said.

“Alright, yes you have my permission. Just tell him it’s a favor for me, and I’ll pay him when I get back. You can give him part of the fee upfront.”

“Yeah, I know where it is,” Talan said.

“Don’t take advantage of him, Talan. Be mature about it.”

“I understand, dad. Thank you.”

“No worries,” his father said. “I want to meet this girl when I come back, just remember that.”

“Sure, dad. Thanks. I’ll talk to ya later,” Talan said before hanging up the phone.

He opened his father’s drawer and found the list of contacts. He had met Mr. Wesley several times before. Talan knew he wouldn’t mind doing this.

All that was left to do was get ready and wait.

Talan leaned forward and handed the driver an envelope.

“This should cover it for now, my dad says that he’s going to give you the rest when he gets back.”

Mr. Wesley chuckled and put the envelope in the glove compartment. “Talan it’s no trouble at all. I’m happy to help you out.”

“Well it shouldn’t be too long, we’re just going to a movie then come back here.”

“You’re sure?” he asked. “No dinner? I know a few good places.”

“If we don’t eat at the theater, we might get some takeout.” Talan said. “This girl is a fitness nut, so I don’t imagine she’ll want too much junk food. This is it right here.”

As the car slowed to stop, Talan grabbed his stuff and got out. He walked up to the porch and gave the bell a ring.

Babs opened the door and stepped outside, “Hey dude, you look nice. Let me put your trunks and clothes inside. Whoa... is that our ride?”

Talan bent over in an exaggerated bow and did his best snooty voice, “Your carriage awaits, my princess.”

“Pfft,” Babs snorted as she punched him in the shoulder and walked to the car. “So is this what it’s like hanging out with a rich kid?”

Talan opened the door for her and went around to the other side. “I’m not that rich, and it’s not even a limo.”

“Should I have brought the limo, sir?” Wesley asked with a chuckle.

“This is your chauffeur?” Babs asked.

“He works for my father,” Talan said. “And no, Mr Wesley. The Audi will do just fine.”

“Very well, buckle up and we’ll be off,” he said while closing the glass between them and allowing it to fade.

With the addition of privacy Babs slid closer to Talan and leaned on him, “This is very nice, Talan. I’m having fun already.”

Talan blushed and rubbed his head, “Oh yeah, well t-that’s good...”

Babs chuckled and slid back, “So, I’m curious, is this all your money? Or your dad’s?”

Talan nodded knowingly, “Want to know if this was all just handed to me, right?”

Babs nodded, “Yeah, I don’t mean anything buy it.”

“It’s fine,” Talan said. “The car and Mr. Wesley are gifts from my dad, but I worked for the money I’m using to take you out. I had a job at the country club for a few summers. I only recently quit because of other jobs I might try and get while at high school.”

Babs smiled, “Really? That’s so sweet.”

Talan raised an eyebrow, “That’s uncharacteristically soft of you- Ow!!”

“Just because I’m tough doesn’t mean I can’t be soft sometimes. And I mean it, this is really nice of you. But I’m paying for my own ticket.”

“But I thought that since I’m taking you out I should- OWW! Stop!!” Talan whined.

“Tell you what, you can buy us dinner if we’re feeling like it afterward, deal?”

“Deal, just stop hitting me...” Talan said with a laugh.

Babs leaned close and whispered in his ear, “That’s not going to happen, Tally. You’re too much fun to antagonize.”

“We’ll see how long the fun lasts...” Talan said while looking out the window.

“That a challenge?” Babs asked. “Am I gonna have to take you to the mat again tonight?”

This time Talan leaned close as well, “You’re going to try, but it’s going to take more than that UFC Brazilian Jiu Jitsu crap...”

Babs chuckled, “How do you know it’s that?”

Talan pretended to yawn and slowly reached his arm around Babs’ shoulder, “Now that would telling...”

Babs burst out laughing and leaned forward, “You trying to be tough and flirtatious is the funniest thing ever.”

Talan groaned and went to remove his arm, but was stopped when Babs leaned back, “I didn’t say stop doing it.” she said with a gentle smile.

“You know,” Talan said. “Thinking it over, you’re not exactly first date material. And I don’t mean that in any offensive way.”

Babs sat up to her full height and looked down at Talan, “I know what you mean, but that makes it all the more fun for both of us. Besides, you’re doing fine.”

“Good,” Talan said. “It’s going to stay that way.”

“Mmm,” Babs cooed, “There’s that confidence I love.”

Talan got out of the car and opened the door for Babs. After that he talked to Mr. Wesley and made sure he’d come back to pick them up when the movie was over.

Talan walked with Babs to the theater and smirked as she guessed which film they were going to see. Seeing that she approved, Talan allowed her to purchase her own ticket, then he purchased his.

“I love superhero movies,” Babs said. “I love seeing other girls kick ass on the big screen.”

“I never would have guessed,” Talan said with a wink. “Any desire for snack bar stuff?”

“What do you think...?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I think they don’t have salads...” he replied.

“Do you want anything?” she asked.

“Nah, we can just get some subs or whatever on the way back.”

Walking across the lobby with it being a Friday night, there were several people around. Talan couldn’t help but notice the other guys gawking at Babs. He was struggling with it himself. Babs wore a band tee with the sleeves cut off revealing her toned arms and a little bit of her stomach. She wore a pair of short shorts showcasing her long legs, very similar to Sonata in that regard. Her hair was combed to the side hanging down over her left eye, and with the sunglasses she almost looked like a punk rock model. She wasn’t wearing any heels, but even so she seemed even taller now. Maybe she always was, or maybe it was just her legs. Either way Talan guessed she had about four or five inches on him. He tried to stand up straight while she walked with him.

After they gave their tickets and were directed to their theater, things got more quiet.

“Notice anything back there?” Babs asked.

“Literally every guy we walked by gawked at you,” Talan said. “Some girls did, too.”

Babs smiled, “Yeah, how do you feel about that?”

Talan hesitated before answering, “I feel... thankful. I really appreciate you hanging out with me.”

“You were going to say ‘lucky,’ weren’t you?” Babs asked, somewhat sadly.

Talan sighed and looked away, which prompted Babs to gently rub his back. “We really need to work on your confidence.”

“Let’s just watch the movie, we can talk about building me up later,” Talan said while holding the door open for her.

“Deal,” Babs replied while walking inside.

After the movie, Talan walked with Babs back to the lobby. She was absolutely ecstatic after watching all the fight scenes.

“Did you see how they moved?!” she asked. “That was so awesome. Makes me want to go home and-”

“Fight?” Talan finished.

“Yeah!” Babs said. “You game?”

“We’ll see,” Talan replied. “But, if you really want to...”

“You’re the best!” Babs said while grabbing Talan in a tight hug. “I have to visit the ladies room, I’ll meet you outside after.”

“Alright,” Talan said.

After she left, Talan yawned and went to stand outside by one of the pillars attached to the theater roof. He checked his phone to see what time it was, then sent a text to Mr. Wesley letting him know they were done.

As he looked up, Talan’s stomach turned in dread.

“Hey, Talan! What’s goin’ on man?”

“Oh, hey Ryan,” Talan said while pocketing his phone. “What brings you here?”

Ryan walked up and smirked, “Just here with Alex and Andrew. We saw the new Rapid and Angry movie.”

“Oh look who it is!” Alex said. “It’s Talan, did you come here all by yourself again?”

Talan sighed, “No, actually I’m here with-”

“He totally did,” Andrew said with a chuckle, “Dude, you could have texted us. We would have told you we were gonna be here.”

Talan raised and eyebrow and smirked at Ryan, “Would you now? You sure about that?”

“There you are!” Babs said while coming outside. She stood beside Talan and smiled down at him. “Friends of yours?”

Talan savored the the image of their faces once they laid eyes on Babs. Ryan especially, ladies man that he was, or rather, thought he was.

“Yeah,” Talan said. “Babs, this is Ryan, Alex, and Andrew. Guys, this is Babs. She’s new here.”

“Charmed,” Ryan said, while the other two simply nodded. “So how did you meet Talan here?”

Babs smiled and leaned on his shoulder, “Well, we beat the shit out of this one kid... what’s his face?”

“Davis,” Talan said.

“Yep, the fat kid!” Babs said with a giggle. “Anyway, after that, we started to hangout.”

“Well, Davis is an ass. He had it coming. But you’re hanging out... with him?” Ryan asked, a little shocked.

“Is that really so shocking?” Talan asked.

“Well... yeah,” Ryan said with a chuckle, earning laughs from the other two as well.

“Great, well, we’ll see you later,” Talan said.

“Wait, not so fast,” Ryan said, eyeing Babs up and down. “Babs, why don’t you hang out with us for a bit? We’ll take you out for a night on the town. How about that?”

Talan’s eyes widened with fear, he looked up at Babs, who put a finger to her chin in contemplation.

“Hmm, nah, I’ll pass,” she said.

“You sure?” Ryan asked, “Girl like you looks like she knows how to have fun on a Friday night.”

“Oh really?” Babs asked, eyebrow raised, “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Just that you seem like a fun girl,” Alex interjected. “Frankly too fun for him,” he said while motioning to Talan.

“Man, fuck you.” Talan said in disgust. Earning a chuckle from all three of his friends.

Talan’s fists were clenched, but they relaxed when he felt a cool hand grab him and open one. Babs slid her fingers between his and closed them. She leaned against him slightly and smiled pityingly at the other boys, “Talan is all I want for tonight, I’ve had my fill of Friday night’s out when I was in New York City. Not interested anymore.”

Babs and Talan looked to the road and saw Mr. Wesley pull up. Talan lead Babs to the car and opened the door for her to get in then closed it. He stood there staring at his three friends, anger bubbling up from inside. As he clenched his fists, solid green rings formed in his eyes. He stood there a moment longer, then walked around the car.

Before he got in, he called over his shoulder to Ryan, “Sometimes you just strike out, eh bud?”

Seeing the rage spread across his features, Talan got in the car and they pulled away. That was something Ryan had constantly told him the few times he tried asking out girls. It felt good to have the tables turned.

Talan looked over at Babs and smiled, “You hungry?”

Babs smiled in return and took his hand again, “Starved.”

After taking Babs to the local sub shop, Mr. Wesley dropped them off at her house. Talan only ate a little bit, as did Babs. She went upstairs to get changed, then allowed Talan to do the same. He went downstairs and took position in front of the punching bag, then let out some steam.

“Fucking Ryan...” Talan said under his breath as he hit the bag again and again.

He backed up and kicked it a few times, then decided to stop. He realized he hadn’t stretched when he saw Babs doing it.

“So what do you want to do?” Talan asked. “Still want to fight?”

Babs looked over at him and shook her head, “No, I don’t think so.”

“No?” Talan asked. “How come?”

“I don’t think you’re in a good mindset for it,” she said with a light chuckle.

“You could say that again,” Talan replied.

Babs got up and walked over to the bench press, “Why don’t we try this? Come on, I’ll spot you.”

“I’m really not so good at this,” Talan said.

“Well then you’ll have to get good. Gotta start somewhere, right?”

“I guess...” Talan said as he sat down and leaned back.

He waited for Babs to put on some weight, then looked up as she stood behind him. He couldn’t help but smirk as her boobs obscured his vision.

“What’s so funny down there?” Babs asked with an edge to her voice.

“Ahem, uh- nothing, nothing. Ready?” Talan asked.

“Yep,” Babs replied, taking hold of the weight. “One hundred fifty pounds to start.”

Talan took the weights and began lifting them up and down, “This isn’t so bad, I think I can handle more.”

Babs shook her head, “This is fine for now, next time we can try more.”

Talan smiled, she said next time. There was no indication Babs was getting tired of him, or that she wasn’t enjoying herself. Still, it felt nice to hear the confirmation.

After they both exercised a little bit more, enough to work up a sweat, Babs decided it was time to go for a dip. Talan went and changed in the downstairs bathroom, while Babs used the upstairs one.

He went outside and walked around the pool. It was an in ground one, large enough for a family to play in. It was already uncovered and ready for use. The people who readied it must have left it that way.

“So, what do you think?”

Talan turned around and smiled, “Referring to you? Or the pool?”

“Both, smartass...” Babs said.

Talan walked around the side to stand near her. Babs’ figure was absolutely stunning, not all that dissimilar from Sonata. Though her bust was fuller, and her thighs thick with muscle. Though not too much, she didn’t look like a fitness model. Just a really in shape model. He tried to figure out what it was that was so alluring about her. Maybe it was the small freckles on her cheeks, or the way her punk style hair contrasted with her tanned skin. Maybe it was her wide hips and perfect bottom. Or, maybe it was all of the above.

“I think the pool is fantastic, is it cold?”

As soon as the words left Talan’s mouth he knew what was coming, yet could do nothing to stop it. Babs, like lightning, took two steps and pushed Talan in. Needless to say, the water was very cold. Having been hot and sweaty from working out, it was a straight shock to the system. Talan guessed it was filled from the reservoir, which was always cold.

“SHOOT!!” Talan exclaimed while breaking the surface. “It’s- it’s-”

“WOO!!” Babs shouted as she cannonballed right on top of Talan, covering him with a wave.

He broke the surface and laughed, “Oh you’re gonna get it now!”

“Try me!” Babs taunted.

Talan dove toward Babs and fought to get around behind her. After doing so, he wrapped his hands around her stomach and suplexed her with all his strength, dunking her behind him.

Babs, not one to be outdone, recovered with a serene smile. She jumped forward and shoved Talan under with her hands on his shoulders. Then, before he could recover, she grabbed him from behind and suplexed him.

They both continued to mess around until they were tired out, each taking position at opposite sides of the pool width.

“Don’t tell me you wrestle, too,” Talan asked while catching his breath.

“Nah, just watch it on TV,” Babs said with a laugh.

“Same,” Talan said.

“So those were your friends?” Babs asked.

Talan sighed and looked at the bottom of the pool, “Yeah, that was them. Ryan was the closest. But not anymore, I think.”

“Ryan is the one who runs you down about not being good with girls?” she asked.

“Yeah,” Talan replied. “He usually wasn’t aggressive or nasty about it. Just liked to make fun and pick on me about it. I tried to shrug it off, but it’s hard when you’re in situations where it comes up all the time.”

“Well, for what it’s worth, I think you handled yourself well,” Babs said with a reassuring smile.

“Thanks, but that’s only because of what you did.” Talan said. He shifted and slowly waded toward Babs. “I- I’m glad you took my hand and wanted to stay with me. I really like you Babs, but I feel like I should be honest. I was wondering if you would go with them. Part of me thought you might.”

Babs frowned, “Why? What makes you think that?”

Talan raised an eyebrow and shared her frown, “Come on, do I really need to say it? I know you want me to have confidence. I’m really trying. But, what they said was true. I mean, look at you. You’re like the image of a girl who likes to party. Not one who wants to hang out with someone like me. I know I shouldn’t judge based on your looks alone, and I apologize. I’m really not judging you based on that. Just... try to see it from my point of view.”

Babs stood up to her full height and looked down at Talan. She sighed and slowly fell backwards into the water and drifted on her back over to him.

“Maybe I was a little to hard on you, about the confidence thing I mean... I just wish you could see what I do. But you have a point. I should try and see things from your perspective. I have a problem being self centered, it’s part of why I don’t live that lifestyle anymore.”

Talan nodded, “You said you don’t party or go out on friday nights anymore. What made you change your mind?”

“Well, ‘going out’ is just what we called it. We never really drank or did a lot of driving around. Not that we needed to, it was New York, we could just walk most places. Just going to hang out with a click of friends, you know? I drank sometimes, but I stopped because I didn’t want to get caught. And also I didn’t really like the people when they were drunk.”

“What type of people?” Talan asked.

Babs smiled and looked up at the starlit sky. “The brightest stars,” she said with lament.

“What?” Talan asked.

Babs continued floating and pointed to the sky, “See the stars? Some are brighter than others. I was with the bright ones. You know, the ‘it’ crowd. The people who were on top of the school.”

“Ahh, those people,” Talan said.

“Yes, those,” Babs said. “I guess it was for a few reasons. My competitive attitude let me get noticed by them. I was attractive, and I actually didn’t look like I do now. I was very different back then. My parents had money, at least as much as the others. And I liked to party.”

“So what changed?” Talan asked.

“Well, I had a boyfriend...” Babs began.

“Oh, Babs, you don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to,” Talan said.

“It’s fine,” Babs reassured him. “It didn't’ last long. He was a jock, strong and built. You know the type. The alpha. I thought dating him was the best thing ever. Well, turns out guys like that can get bored pretty quick. He cheated on me with one of our friends.”

“So you knew the girl who he cheated with?” Talan asked.

“Yep, she and I were friends,” Babs said. “Our little circle, remember? Anyway, that’s when I figured it out. I couldn’t be relaxed around even my friends. I had to be competitive there, or lose out. I soon found myself competing with all the other girls.”

“Competing at what?” Talan asked, confused.

“Everything,” Babs replied, “Just everything. Physical looks, fashion, grades, sports, dancing, drinking, kissing, you name it.”

“Wow,” Talan said, awestruck. “That sounds... daunting.”

“It was,” Babs replied. “I tried to be like them, I tried to fit in. But one night I got into an argument with one of the girls. I had the realization, I just wasn’t having fun anymore. It wasn’t me. It was empty. I was doing all the stuff I loved for some stupid ulterior reason. It wasn’t the same. So, I stopped. Stopped hanging out with them, stopped going to the parties. Stopped the whole scene. Of course, that meant I was cast out of the clique, and pretty much any other group. I was alone, but then fate seemed to intervene. My parents told me we were moving.”

Babs laughed and casually flicked some water as she floated away, “They thought I would be devastated. You should’ve seen the look on their faces when I told them I couldn’t wait, and it didn’t bother me at all. Priceless.”

Talan remained silent for a moment, then smiled. “That’s a really cool story, wow.”

Babs frowned, “It was stupid, I was stupid. I should have never stuck around trying to compete for attention from those guys. Guys who would cheat on me. I should have left then and there.”

“Is that part of why you’re hanging out with me?” Talan asked.

Babs righted herself and looked over at Talan, his short stature allowing him to sink below the waves with little effort. “Yeah... kinda. I’m sorry Talan, that makes me sound like a shallow bitch. You probably think I’m some stupid bimbo, I sure as hell acted like one.”

Babs let her shoulders slump as she turned away from Talan in shame. But the response she got was not what she was expecting.

“Not at all! Hey, if we know one thing for sure, it’s that I’m certainly not that type of guy. Can’t really blame you for wanting something different.”

“You mean that?” she asked.

“Sure,” Talan said with a shrug. “It’s not like you pity me or anything. We have other similar interests, and both like hanging out with each other, right?”

“Yeah,” Babs said while smiling and moving the hair out of her eye.

“So you did some things in your past you regret. More than I can say for myself. I’ve never done anything like that. You didn’t like it, so you stopped. Seems like you learned a lesson. You changed, so that’s good.”

“I guess so,” Babs said. “So... you’ve never done any of that?”

“What? The partying? Drinking? That stuff? No, not my scene. I don’t really have that many friends. I’m kind of an introvert. I like video games as much as I like running, martial arts, and swimming. I built my own computer, and I like to tinker with mods.”

“So you’ve never dated anyone?” Babs asked.

“Nah.”

“What about going on dates?”

“None,” Talan answered. “Nothing that would really count anyway.”

“Can I ask why?”

Talan slumped back against the wall and shrugged, “I’m not dating material. I don’t really have the best social skills. I don’t like going out places all the time, and I don’t really like parties. That’s basically how you meet girls. My interests really don’t fit into being considered dateable. Cross country is thought to be boring, like I said. I don’t play any other big team sports like Football, Basketball, or Baseball. Even though I like to stay fit and exercise, I’m hardly huge. The only thing remotely cool about me is probably the fighting. But that’s a personal thing. Other than that I’m just a nerd.”

“I see,” Babs said.

“Yeah, you see how someone like me finds it kinda odd that you want to hangout.”

“You’re different, Talan.” Babs said. “But that’s not the only reason. You’re sweet, kind, and treat me like a person, not just some girl who could be immediately replaced.”

“Don’t think I could find a replacement with hair like that,” Talan joked.

“See,” Babs said. “You’re charming, too. You make me laugh, and not always intentionally. I find that really cute, in a good way. But that’s not all. I can relax around you. I don’t have to be on all the time? Know what I mean? I don’t have to compete. I can just be myself.”

“That’s nice, thanks. I’ve never been complimented like that before.”

Babs leaned forward, “That’s part of the appeal, too.” she said with a wink. “That I’m more experienced, I get to show you the ropes and have some fun.”

Talan forced a small smile and looked up at the stars, “Yeah, fun...”

Babs hesitated for a moment. She saw the apprehensive look on his face and felt a pang of guilt. She realized how nervous he must be. Being social and open to relationships was something that came easily to her. She never really gave it a second thought. Things just happened organically. Talan didn’t seem to have that luck. Babs remembered a game some of her former friends used to play at her old school. They would bait boys like Talan and make them think they were interested, only to pull the rug out from under them later, usually in public. It was embarrassing, but she remembered laughing at it a few times. A mark of regret now. Babs wondered if Talan had heard of such a thing, or seen it first hand. She wouldn’t be surprised if in the back of his mind, Talan was wondering if that’s what this was. He wouldn’t be wrong for doing so. She realized she would need to start off slow.

“Talan, you should have more faith in yourself.” Babs said.

“I know, confidence...” Talan said. “What you said was nice. I’ll try to keep that in mind from now on.”

Babs smiled and stood up to stretch, “Remember when I asked you what you saw in the theater earlier? When we walked through the lobby?”

“Yeah, all the guys staring at you,” Talan replied.

“You didn’t notice anything else?”

“Nope. Not really.” Talan said with a shrug.

Babs giggled, it was typical for a guy like him to not notice.

“You saw the guys staring at me, at us, but you didn’t see the girls. They were staring at you, Talan.”

“Well when I’m with a girl like you, what need do I have to look at any other girls?” Talan asked jokingly. “But why stare at me?”

Babs laughed. If he only knew how good such an innocent joke like that made her feel. She loved it. And the best part was that it was genuine.

“You said it yourself,” Babs began. “You talk about image. A girl like me isn’t expected to be hanging out with a guy like you, right? It’s those stupid expectations based on image. Because you don’t fit with their perceived view of things, that makes you interesting...”  

“Interesting?” Talan asked, not following.

“Yeah!” Babs exclaimed. “See, girls think about this stuff constantly. It’s our closely guarded secret” she said with a wink. “So there’s this guy hanging out with this super attractive, fit, sexy, confident, amazing girl...”

“All true,” Talan said.

Babs laughed and playfully wagged a finger, “Careful, Talan. There’s a difference between being sweet and sucking up. Anyway, so they see this guy who doesn’t fit the picture. They think it’s weird. But then... they start to ask why. Why is she with him? What’s so great about him that I don’t notice? Am I missing something? Then, they start to look more closely. I saw at least seven eye you up and down.”

“That happened? Seriously?”

“Seriously,” Babs replied. “You’re not as bad as you think, and I love hanging out with you.”

“That’s- I don’t know what to say. Thanks, Babs. Seriously.”

Babs smiled and nodded, “Now, let me get this straight. You’ve never dated, never been on a real date. Have you kissed a girl?”

Talan’s heart sank, his stomach tied itself in a knot, and his eyes fell to the floor. Few things were more emasculating.

“What do you think?” he asked sadly.

Talan sighed and was surprised to see Babs smiling at him.

She leaned back against the wall and beckoned him over. “Come here.”

Talan’s heart raced. He slowly swam over and stopped in front of her. Babs grinned and pulled him closer. She put both hands to his cheeks and pressed her lips to his. She held there for a moment, then pulled back.

“Wow...” Talan said. “It’s just like how I imagined it would be.”

Babs laughed and pulled him closer again, “You’re such a dork.”

Talan embraced Babs and did more to participate this time. He moved his lips with hers, doing his best to follow her lead. Kissing wasn’t as daunting as he thought it would be.

“Hey, you’re not that bad...” Babs said. “But then, I’m a really good kisser.”

“So show me more,” Talan said with a smirk.

Babs raised an eyebrow and turned Talan around so his back was now against the wall. She spread out his arms, then ran her hands down his chest. She fondled his pecks, then slowly moved down to his stomach, all while never taking her eyes off him. Then, suddenly she gasped. She rubbed her hands across Talan’s modest abs, then grinned hungrily.

“I never noticed these before,” she said with a greedy smile.

“Well, I’m no body builder,” Talan began, “But I do have some souvenirs left over from when I did Crossfit stuff.”

Babs’s eyes widened in surprise, “What? You did Crossfit?!”

“Yeah,” Talan replied. “The martial arts classes I had were across the street from a crossfit gym. Our instructor wanted us to work out as we learned. I didn’t really like weight lifting in the traditional iron pumping style, it got boring quickly. So I did that instead.”

Babs looked at them and smiled. They weren’t anything special, but with more training Talan could become a complete studmuffin. Her studmuffin.

She pulled him forward and wrapped her arms around him. Talan kissed her deeply, both of them trying to outdo each other. As they continued, Talan got bold and let his hands slide down her back. As he did, Babs’ mouth curled into a sultry grin. Talan ran his hands across her firm ass, absolutely loving how it molded around his fingers as he gave it a firm squeeze. Babs let out delighted moan as he did.

However, not to be outdone, Babs unwound her arms and did the same thing, grabbing his ass much more firmly. Talan couldn’t help but chuckle as they both floated around the pool fondling each other. Babs eventually wrapped her legs around his waist and bent down, giving him one final deep kiss. Before letting go, she bit his bottom lip and playfully pulled it, forcing Talan to fall into the water with her.

After that, Babs turned around and fell into Talan’s arms. “So,” she said. “That’s one thing you can knock off your bucket list.”

“What would that be exactly?”

“Make out with a smoking hot girl in her swimming pool, of course,” Babs said with a content sigh.

“Yeah, it was pretty cool,”

Babs turned around and hugged him again, “Believe me young grasshopper, we’re just getting started.”

Talan looked up at the stars and smiled. “So... um... I gotta ask. We’re dating now, right?”

Babs laughed and turned around, draping her arms across his chest and shoulders, “Are we in grade school? Do you need to ask me to be your girlfriend?”

Talan rolled his eyes, “No... but that means-”

Babs silenced him with a kiss, “There’s your answer. Good enough?”

“Yeah,” he replied. “I’m satisfied.”

“You think you are,” Babs said. “But I’m just getting started... c’mon, let’s go get dried off. It’s starting to get cold out here.”

As Talan followed her inside, he looked back at the pool and smiled. He’d have to do this again, real soon. No way he was going to let his time with Babs go to waste.