Open Case File [COMPLETED]

Finding Solutions

Donovan had stepped into the convenient store down the block when he got the reply.

"Affirmative."

Nodding to himself, Donovan bought all that he needed then headed back to Carter's apartment. When he entered this time, the music had remained off but the sound of her landing blows to the punching bag could still be heard. Grabbing a pair of spoons and settling the shopping bag on the coffee table, Donovan kicked off his shoes and sank down onto the couch. After a quick search, he found what he was looking for.

The tv screen began to play a movie that opened with an establishing shot of a high school gym and a class picture day.

By the time the main character had said her name was Jenna for the third time, Carter had appeared. Seeing Donovan on her couch, eating ice cream and watching a movie, she scowled.

"What are you doing?" she said.

Donovan gestured to the screen with his spoon.

"I'm watching 13 Going On 30, want to join?"

Carter eyed the tv and the collection of ice cream cartons like they would attack her at any moment.

"You know how I feel about romance movies," she said, her fists clenched.

"I do, but I figured you could make an exception for me."

An internal battle seemed to rage in Carter's head, as she stood stock still. Donovan watched the movie and acted as if he weren't half watching her, seeing if she would run or attack. Finally making a decision, she grabbed a spoon and carton then sat down beside him.

Donavon let out a breath, feeling a strange sense of accomplishment. Carter jabbed her ice cream. Minutes passed, as Carter's ice cream took a beating.

"You haven't actually ever seen this movie have you?" she asked.

Donovan debated over the two answers but decided from the less aggressive scowl and the tone of her voice that the truth wouldn't bring him bodily harm.

"No, but it was ranked as number three most-watched romance movie when girls are..."

Instead of finishing that sentence, he ate some ice cream.

"How did you know?" she asked.

"Last month you almost bit off my head when I startled you. The month before that you nearly broke my finger when I tried to hug you. Each instance was note-worthy enough I marked it in my calendar. I also got confirmation from your father."

He shrugged as if it wasn't a big deal. Without warning, Carter kissed him.

The shock of it kept him reacting. By the time his brain kicked back into gear, Carter jerked away. Her face was a mix of desire and frustration. Letting out a breath of annoyance, she slammed her ice cream on the coffee table and stood.

"I hate this. I hate this so much!" She walked a few paces, clutching her hair. "I don't feel like myself. It's like some demon has taken over my body." Donovan rose and moved closer to her. "I want to cry and hit things for no reason. Now you're part of my life and you're seeing me being a complete mess and I hate you for it."

Donovan placed his hands on her shoulders, stilling her.

"Hey," he said. "I get that this is just how it is. And I want you, mess or no mess."

Carter threw his hands off.

"Like that!" She said. "You're being really nice and cute! Will you please stop doing that. It's really annoying and I want to punch you for being so freaking calm all the time! I wish you would stop being perfect for one second."