Thirty-Three

Sighing to myself, I straightened my clothes, making sure they looked okay as I impatiently waited for the clock to strike five o'clock. I had been at the art institute for five hours after Brooke had driven me here, and I couldn't wait for the exhibit to finally open. The few people around me didn't look as nervous or impatient as I did, and it was probably given their experience or lack of excitement; it was probably another day at the office for them. From where they stood, they could all probably sense my anxious state, both from actually going to have my work displayed at such place, and from all the feelings that were cramming up my body.

I had woken up the to an empty bed that morning, which wasn't actually cold, but it was definitely lacking the warmth of a body beside me. It had taken me some seconds to remember Sam had slept in his room, and I got up not knowing if he was even at home, and what would happen if he still hadn't left.

He had been indeed sipping from his coffee when I had walked into our living room, but he hadn't even glanced at me while I had my breakfast next to him. He had left the room as soon as he had been done with his, and never said a word to me, leaving with Lou to wherever he had to go without having said "goodbye" or wishing me good luck. It all brushed me the wrong way, as I had intended to talk things out with him before coming here, but there was nothing I could do about it now.

Breathing in deeply, I tried to steer my mind away from those thoughts and focused on the ticking clock on the wall in front of me, which indicated there was just one minute left before they let people into the room to make the grand opening. I could spot Danny's tall frame among the crowd on the other side of the glassed-doors, but there wasn't much else I could see from where I was standing with all of my paintings.

As soon as the doors opened and people walked into the room, I started to spot familiar faces all around. Brooke bee-lined to where I was standing, dragging Jake by the hand, and hugged me tightly as more people flooded our surroundings. Matt made sure he was the next to greet me, squeezing me tightly and stating how proud he was of me.

-          Hey Gwen – Jake hugged me once the footballer had let me go. His twin brother and Danny joined us immediately, and the latter's face showed a mixture of uneasiness and worry. He was trying to hide it, but I knew him too well not to realise there was something going on.

-          Hey guys – I smiled at them, looking at Danny with uncertainty – I really appreciate you all coming here.

-          Of course we would come – Josh smiled fondly, wrapping me in his arms once his brother had released me – Mom and dad are here too.

-          Really? – I asked, surprise taking over my features as I stepped away to look at his face. I had never expected Karen and Kelly to actually come, but I couldn't deny it made me truly happy to have them here supporting me.

-          Yeah – the curly haired boy chuckled, squeezing my shoulders one last time before he let Danny hug me. His face and stance still oozed nervousness, but his embrace was as welcoming as ever, even slightly reassuring, but I didn't know what for.

-          Hey Danny boy – I smiled, leaning away to look up at him. The smile he returned wasn't as heartfelt, making me internally frown – What's going on?

-          Nothing – he replied as he let me go, but I didn't miss his eyes quickly darting towards Jake and Josh, as if he were checking they weren't listening.

-          Where's Sam? – I added, standing on my tiptoes as I looked around. I had assumed that if the three of them had come together, Sam would have too, but he was nowhere to be seen.

Once my eyes fell back on Danny, my eyebrows furrowed, as his face showed slight worry and screamed "sorry" at the same time.

-          He said he had to finish a couple things at the studio, so he was probably held back there – Josh replied, unaware of the tension between the drummer and I as I tried to guess what was actually going by reading his features.

-          He's probably on his way – Jake added with a smile, oblivious to what was happening too.

I waited till him and Josh had walked away before I turned to look at Danny again, fearful for what he would say when I questioned him.

-          Danny, what's going on? – I asked softly, fighting the urge to bite down on my lip while I waited for his answer. He ran one of his hands down his face, looking around the room as if he hoped his friend would materialise right there.

-          I'm sure he'll eventually come – he sighed after some seconds, avoiding my eyes at all costs.

-          What do you mean he'll "eventually come"? – my voice wavered a little bit, as my mind started to slowly process what that sentence was implying – Danny, please...

-          I'll make sure he comes, okay? – he finally met my worried eyes, looking remorseful – He's just being a dickhead right now, but I'm sure he'll come around.

When the meaning of his words finally sunk in, I could feel tears threatening to well up in my eyes. Sam wasn't being late, he hadn't been caught up in traffic, he hadn't been held back at the studio.

He was purposefully choosing not to come.

Not to come to the most important day in my professional life so far, not to come to the event I had been looking forward to for over a month, no to be with me when all I wanted was to share this special moment of mine with him. And all because of our stupid fight.

-          Gwen! – I was immediately pulled out of my thoughts, and Danny and I turned to face Karen and Kelly Kiszka heading our way – Oh, darling, I'm so happy for you!

I was immediately wrapped in Karen Kiszka's arms, and my body somewhat relaxed, but I still couldn't stop thinking about Sam not coming to the opening. I closed my eyes, trying to free my mind from those thoughts, and appreciate the fact that Karen and Kelly were here to support me. Right in that moment, she was the closest to a motherly figure that I had, and while I hadn't expected her nor Kelly to be here, I felt extremely grateful for their presence.

-          Thank you both for coming – I truthfully smiled, turning to receive Kelly's brief hug.

-          Don't you thank us, we were really dying to come and finally see what you do – Karen gushed, running a hand down my hair in a motherly way – This all looks amazing, and you look lovely dear. Where's Sam? – she added, looking around the room after spotting just her eldest children staring at one of my paintings.

I turned to look at Danny, who's back Kelly was just patting, and we exchanged a quick glance before I finally answered.

-          He's been held up at the studio, but I guess he'll be here shortly – I lied, and each word felt like a dagger to my heart as I knew none of them were true.

-          What a pity – Kelly replied, eyeing the paintings surrounding us – Well, congratulations, Gwen, this looks amazing.

-          Thank you – I tried to smile, as I really appreciated his comment, but I still couldn't keep my boyfriend's absence out of my head.

They eventually left to take a look around, and Danny squeezed my shoulder one last time with a tight-lipped smile before he joined Jake and Josh, leaving me to gather my thoughts on my own.

I didn't have much time to do it, though, because soon enough a group of my classmates showed up to congratulate me, and it actually helped to clear my mind at least a bit. Vincent introduced me to a lot of people, working both at the institute and other galleries,        and I was never left alone for too long to mourn about my relationship. But at the same time, part of me was aching because, even though I was enjoying myself and this was a really big step for me, Sam was my best friend, my confident, my lover, and all I wanted was to share this important moment in my life with him.

-          Guinevere, right? – an unfamiliar voice said behind me, startling me out of my thoughts – It's nice to finally meet you.

It took me a couple of seconds to realise it was Devon talking to me, Vincent's nephew who had helped me out during the whole week. He had to be as tall as Sam and Danny, but he had short, light-brown hair. He somewhat resembled his uncle, but instead of piercing blue eyes, his were as green as they could get. If I had to guess, I would had said he was in his late twenties, and any reasonable person would say he was rather handsome.

-          Devon? – I smiled, not knowing if I was supposed to wave, shake his hand or awkwardly hug him. He got rid of my indecision by giving me a short hug, smiling down at me when he pulled away – It's really nice to finally meet you, too. I'm beyond grateful for all that you've done for me, for real.

-          It's alright – he smiled – It's actually nice to have someone as young and refreshing among us this year, so I was more than glad to help.

-          I would have messed up everything without your advice – I chuckled, shaking my head – I'm new to all of this, and it was nice to know someone had my back. I'm really grateful for this opportunity you and your uncle have given me.

-          Stop thanking me, Gwen – his smile widened – Can I call you that? – he referred to my nickname, and I nodded instantly – Well, Gwen, you should know we are both elated to have you and your paintings here; you are just what we were missing. You are still studying, right?

And just like that, we had started talking. He didn't make me forget about Sam, but it was nice having someone new to converse with, whom I could actually talk with when it came to art itself. We kept on talking throughout the evening, and even more familiar faces showed up during that time. The Winters' and some of their friends had come, as they loved this kind of events, and even Chase had stopped to say hi and take a look around. I had FaceTimed Carter too, all the way from California, and given him a tour, seeing his proud smile on the screen.

Every couple of minutes I exchanged glances with Danny, who was now with Mackenzie after she had arrived, in hopes to gather some information about my boyfriend's whereabouts. I had tried texting him earlier, sending him a simple "hey", but he had failed to reply. And Danny hadn't been of much help either, as every time our eyes had met, he had shaken his head no, empathy dripping from his eyes each time. I tried to mask my disappointment and hurt throughout the evening, telling myself the exhibit would be held for three weeks, and Sam not being here for the opening wasn't such a big deal.

But I still felt wounded, because it wasn't about him being able to see my paintings here; he had pretty much already seen them all. It was about him being here for me in the most important day of my life so far, not realising how big of a deal this was for me, and letting a stupid fight get in-between us and ruin such a special moment.

I had managed to spot Danny on the phone once, and I could tell he was arguing with Sam, as he kept on eyeing me nervously. But I hadn't dared to eavesdrop, afraid of what I could have heard. Given Danny's anger, I could tell that he was being his mean-self, the one that popped up every time he felt hurt. And while I still felt slightly guilty for having nursed this feelings of his, I still felt hurt myself, knowing he had takin it as far as not coming to this.

-          You look kind of distracted – Devon pointed out after a while, taking a sip of the wine of glass he had managed to get for himself as we strolled around the room.

-          I guess I kind of am – I side smiled, letting out a small sigh and folding my arms over my chest as I looked at the people around us.

-          Well, me, a couple of friends and their acquaintances are going out after this – he told me, taking a couple steps to stare at one particular painting in front of us – You can come with us to ease your mind, if you want to.

-          Here in Detroit? – I raised my brow, a bit sceptical about his proposal. I still didn't know how I would get back home yet, as Brooke had already left with Jake and the rest of the Kiszka's, and Danny would be going on a date with Mack later.

-          Yes, all the people coming are from the art scene here in the city – he added, sensing my uneasiness – It's kind of an afterparty they are throwing. You'll have a great time, I assure you.

-          I don't know – I sighed, not really sure if I would agree but not wanting to turn him down either.

-          We could grab dinner before if you want to, just you and me – he added, studying my reaction from the corner of his eye as we both stood staring at the same painting of mine.

I had a slight moment of panic before I quickly calmed myself down, knowing I could perfectly deal with this. I really didn't know if he was actually meaning to take me out, or if he was just being friendly. So taking a deep breath, I turned to look at him, making him turn to face me too.

-          My boyfriend is supposed to pick me up later – I decided to lie, unfolding my arms and letting them fall to my sides as I glanced around awkwardly. It was a nice way of not saying no, but letting him know I wasn't single if his invitation hadn't been just out of politeness.

-          Oh, well... – he cleared his throat while rubbing the back of his neck, feeling visibly awkward – In that case, he can join us later when we all go out together if it makes you feel more comfortable.

-          I'll think about it – I timidly smiled, trying to ease weird tension that had suddenly surrounded us.

Luckily, some old men approached Devon just then, patting his shoulder and asking about his family, and I saw it as my cue to leave. It was already late an there was less than an hour till the place closed, but there was still a considerable amount of people roaming around. All of the people that had come to support me had already left, but I still relished in having a moment to myself after the hectic day I had had.

Just as I was about to lean against one of the walls to simply stare around and think, I spotted two faces I had never expected to see here. Never in a million years I would have thought they would know about my paintings being shown at the institute, let alone actually coming to see them. But here they were, both of them in their expensive clothes, walking into the room with unreadable faces. While part of me wanted to run and hide, deep down a little bit of hope bloomed within me. Maybe we could make things right once and for all.

Facing my parents in a situation like this one was something I had to do alone, but I couldn't help but wish Sam were here beside me. Letting me squeeze his hand, or kissing my temple to let me know everything would be alright. Just knowing he was around would had been enough, his mere presence always helping me to calm down. But he wasn't here, and my parents had already spotted me and were walking my way, without leaving me any chance of escaping.

-          Guinevere – my father's cold voice said when they stopped a few feet away from me, making all the thin hairs on my arms stand.

-          H-hey – I swallowed, feeling nervous all of a sudden. Not only their presence was shocking, but the fact that they were seeing my paintings had me internally shaking – What are you doing here?

-          Should we leave? – my mother challenged, rising an eyebrow as she looked around.

-          No, no, I just mean I wasn't expecting to see you guys here – I replied, fumbling with my hands as I saw their sceptical eyes wandering around the room – How did you know about this?

-          Elizabeth told your mother about it – my father replied without much emotion in his voice, referring to Mrs. Winters.

-          Right – I nodded, tucking my hair behind my ears, not knowing what else to say.

-          Are these all yours? – he asked, moving his finger around to point to the frames hanging from the wall in front of us.

-          All of the ones on this wall, yes – I cleared my throat, not really knowing what to expect from them with all of these.

My father didn't even hum in reply, simply continued to stare at the different paintings I had made, just like my mother was doing. None of their faces were giving away their thoughts, and I couldn't help but continuously bite down on my lip in an attempt to tame my nerves. I knew getting a compliment or even a simple comment out of them when it came to my work was almost impossible, but I still feared what they could say.

-          Isn't that the guy from the other day? – my mom suddenly asked, pointing to the painting I had made of Sam, the one that had got me enough credits to take part on the previous exhibition almost a month before.

-          Yes, that's Sam, my boyfriend – I decided to clarify, given she had called him "that guy", just in case she had forgot about it. But I suspected she had referred to him like "the guy from the other day" on purpose.

Her eyebrows rose as she stared at my representation of the shirtless, long-haired guy, and not in a good way. But luckily, she didn't say anything else about it. It suddenly occurred to me that they didn't even know we were leaving together, but I decided it was not the moment to casually slip it. Too many things were already going on to add that to the mix.

-          Is he here? – my father asked, turning around in an attempt to spot him around the room. I internally cringed, knowing I would have to lie for the billionth time that evening about why my boyfriend wasn't here.

-          He came earlier – the lie fell easily from my lips as I avoided both of their stares – And he's picking me up in some minutes when this closes – I added.

-          We could all go out for dinner then – he replied, making my blood freeze.

I hadn't spent more than half an hour with my parents in the past year, and most of our relationship had been merely non-existent in the previous months. I had never expected them to be here, as they had never really cared when it came to me and art. But the fact that they were actually inviting me, along with Sam whom I actually sensed they deeply disapproved off with all their prejudices, to have dinner was beyond the unthinkable.

Maybe they were willing to try to mend things after years of fighting and arguing. I didn't know what had clicked within me, but the fact that they were here was already scary and exhilarating. The little bit of hope that had started to bubble when I had first spotted them there was now blossoming, and I had to mask my excitement so that I didn't push it too much.

I then realised I had been caught in my own lie, as Sam wasn't actually coming to pick me up, and that I would have to lie again. I didn't want to turn them down, but I couldn't tell them I hadn't told the truth earlier, so my mind raced to find a quick solution.

-          We already have plans with some people here in Detroit afterwards – I partially lied, remembering about Devon's invitation – But we could go for dinner tomorrow or any other day if you guys want to – I added, looking at their faces expectantly, hoping they would say yes. While I could have told them just Sam had plans and gone with them to eat, no matter how tense things were between us now I would need his support in order to make it through the whole dinner with my parents. And I hoped we could make up before that, because I really didn't know if I could make it on my own.

-          Tomorrow we are busy – my mother replied, letting my hopes fall.

-          But we could make it on Wednesday – my father added without much emotion, which contrasted with the huge grin that spread on my face – I'll book a table for four at The Garden – he finished, referring to their all-time favourite restaurant.

-          Wednesday it is, then – I smiled, trying to control my voice.

-          Well, we'll just take a look around – my mother stated, looping her arm around my father's. They both paid me a nod before they strode off, wandering into a different room. I still didn't know what the dynamics of their separation were, but I didn't doubt they were being nice to each other just to "keep an image".

They left ten minutes before the institute closed, simply waving my way before they headed to the glassed doors that lead them to the main hall. Just as my father was going to reach for the handle to open them, someone beat him to it on the other side. I expected my parents to just leave, but they seemed to be exchanging some words with the person who had actually opened the door. I was starting to wonder who could it be coming here so late, but my questions where answered when they finally left and a tall, lean figure walked into the room.

I didn't need to look twice to know it was him, so I looked away, trying to avoid facing him for as long as I could. I knew running away would be of no use, but after everything he had put me through that day, I really didn't feel like talking to him. No matter how much I had missed him, how badly I wanted to make things right with him, and how much I wanted to spend those last minutes of my big day together, he had still hurt me. Deeply. And I didn't want to let him get away with it just because of how much I loved him.

There weren't many people around the room, as the institute was about to close, so I was sure he had spotted me and was heading my way. I could even sense his presence when he stopped a few feet away from me, but I still didn't dare to look up, not knowing if I would be able to hold back my emotions if I did.

-          Hey – he said in a low voice after some minutes of silence, and I didn't respond. I didn't know how to act, what to do, and I didn't know what he was intending either – Your parents came – he added with a hint of surprise laced in his voice.

-          Yeah, even they did better than you – I couldn't help but reply. I was still looking anywhere but him, but I knew my comment had hit him.

-          Gwen... - he sighed, taking a step closer to me. His hands reached for my hips, but I quickly avoided them – I know I've fucked up, babe. I truly am sorry.

I ignored his apology, crossing my arms over my stomach, and avoided his stare. I knew his eyes could change my mind in less than a second, as they were a literal window to his soul and feelings. But I didn't want to be swept by them. I wanted him to know I was hurt too, and that no matter our stupid fight, I had wanted him to be here for me on this day. And he had failed me.

-          Baby, please – he tried again, and I could tell he was suffering from his voice. He took a step closer to me, trying to arrest my eyes with his own – We both know how stupid I can be whenever I'm mad, and trust me, I regret everything that's happened today more than anything. I know you won't forgive me yet, but I'm sorry.

After some seconds of internal debate, I decided to finally look at him. And just as I had predicted, his eyes were showing regret, sadness, worry and desperation. It made my heart clench, as in the end, him being hurt would always hurt me too in the end. But I needed to stand my ground. I had made my own mistakes too, and I intended to apologise for them, but he had let it get too far, walking away when we were supposed to talk things out and not showing up for the exhibition.

I could feel my eyes welling up as I stared at him, but I managed to keep my tears at bay. His eyes fell even more when he realised I was about to cry, and his hand involuntarily reached for my face, trying to cup my cheek. And I let him, as in spite of our argument his touch still comforted me when I needed it the most. I was still mad, and we still needed to have a long conversation, but it wouldn't hurt to let him hold me.

His other hand reached for the other side of my face as soon as he realised I wasn't going to push him away, and he took another step closer, our bodies being almost pressed up together.

-          I'm sorry Gwenny – he whispered again, rubbing his thumbs over my cheeks as he rested his forehead against mine. I still remained speechless, not saying a single thing, while he desperately searched for something that could give away my thoughts in my eyes.

He saw I wasn't going to say anything, so he tentatively leaned in, hesitating before his lips met mine. But I turned my face, making them fall on my cheek as I was still reluctant to kiss him. Kissing Sam involved too many emotions for me, and doing so would only mess things up in my head. He sighed, burying his head into the crook of my neck instead, letting go of my face to wrap his arms around me. I barely hugged him back, but I could feel the thumping of his heartbeat going faster than ever. He was really nervous, and I didn't blame him. After everything that had happened, he was probably fearing what would happen between us.

-          Let me take you out on a date tonight – he said next to my ear as his hands rubbed my back – I know it won't make up for it but I don't know, it's been a while and we can maybe talk there. Or we can do whatever you want – he added nervously, pulling away to stare down at me - Just speak to me, Gwen, please, you are scaring me.

-          I've already made plans for tonight – I answered without even thinking, letting my still maddened side take control of the situation. I did want to take him out of his misery and talk things out maturely, but not just yet.

-          Oh? – Sam mumbled, stilling his hands on my waist.

-          Yeah, there's this afterparty here in Detroit Devon invited me to – I went on, seeing how he tried to hide his upset face – It's an artists' kind of thing, apparently.

-          Alright – he nodded slowly, assessing the situation – Is Brooke going with you? – he asked, looking around to see if he could spot my blonde friend.

-          No, she left hours ago with Jake, Josh and your parents – I replied, seeing his head snap back to look at me. He clearly hadn't known his parents had been here, and even more regret was showing on his face – Her and Jake were going on a date later.

-          Are you planning on going on your own? – he carefully asked next, his thumbs rubbing circles into my sides.

-          Well, Devon and his friends are going – was my reply, looking away from him.

-          I would offer to go with you but I'm pretty sure you don't want me there right now – he sighed, looking away from me himself. My silence served as my response to his statement, and we stayed like that for some seconds until his eyes found mine again, and he squeezed my waist tenderly – C'mon, Gwen, you've known these people for a day and you don't even know where you are going. I don't want to be overprotective, but I don't know, can't you go with Matt or someone else you do know?

-          I've told you Devon would be there.

-          But that doesn't change anything, babe. I'm sure he must be a great guy and whatever but it makes me feel uneasy knowing you'll be out who knows where without someone you can trust in case anything happens. You know how Detroit is – he replied. I knew everything he was saying made complete sense. He wasn't telling me not to go, he just wanted me not to go on my own. But the bitch part of me was still mad, and wasn't going to give in, at least not that easily.

-          Sam, I'm not fifteen years old anymore, I can manage just fine – I scoffed, looking away from him again.

-          How are you going to get back home?

-          Devon will drive me – I lied for the millionth time. He probably would if I asked him, though, so it wasn't that bad of a lie.

Sam sighed again, lifting one of his hands from my waist to run it down his face. He didn't like this, not at all, and the evil part of me was celebrating this small victory. He looked desperate, not knowing how to handle the situation without making things worse between us.

-          Gwen, please – he whispered, pulling me closer – This whole thing makes me feel uneasy, can't you ring Matt or Brooke? I can go with you if you are okay with it, but please.

-          I'm not a child – I replied, avoiding his stare – And I don't need your approval to do this, I was just letting you know. Didn't you want me to live a little? – I added, recalling what he had said the previous night, and I could immediately see how he regretted those words profoundly.

-          Babe, I didn't mean half of the things I said last night that way – he sighed, pleading me with his eyes to forget about it – And I know you can do whatever you want, but I'm just looking out for you.

-          Well, I don't need you to, you have already proven to me today how much you care – I spat back, moving out of his grasp.

-          Gwen... - he pleaded again, his eyes portraying a thousand different emotions – I'm sorr-

-          I've already heard you – I interrupted him, calming my voice. I saw people from the institute's staff walking around to let people know they needed to leave, so I turned to look at him – They need to close this place, so we need to get moving.

I didn't wait for his response as I walked towards the guy in charge of supervising the room we where in. After exchanging a few words with him, I waved goodbye and walked into the main hall, Sam hot on my heels but silent.

Vincent spotted me right away among the few people that were there, and came to congratulate me on my first day immediately. He even greeted Sam briefly, remembering him from the first time we had met, but eventually left with some other people. I said goodbye to some of the other artists that had been there with me throughout the day, having already exchanged numbers so that we could keep in touch in the future. In spite of the Sam situation, it had been a great day, and I felt truly proud of myself for having managed to get here after all the effort I had made.

-          Alright – Sam said stepping beside me after I last waved to one of the girls I had met that day. I turned to look at him with a frown, not understanding what he was talking about – Go, but please, text me when you get there and if anything else happens. Do you have an address or something for reference?

My heart fell. I hadn't expected him to be okay with it so easily, but I could tell he was trying his best to make things right with me. Even if it meant letting me go to this on my own, which clearly made him worry.

-          Not yet, I can text it to you later – I replied trying to hide my amusement. I was already regretting telling him I was going to this party, but I couldn't back out now.

The fact that he was giving up his thoughts on the matter to make me happy made me want to cancel everything and go back home with him to make up. I reached for his hand and paid it a gentle squeeze, making him look up at me.

-          If you need a ride back home just let me know, I'll be just a call away – he said softly, squeezing my hand back as other hand reached for my free one, lacing our fingers.

-          Okay – I whispered, nodding my head twice.

I was dying inside to tell him to forget all about this afterparty and that I would go with him, but part of me knew I had to do this for myself. We could talk the following day, and by the look in his eyes, I knew that no matter how hard the conversation we would have would be, everything was going to be alright.

-          Hey, Gwen, are you coming with us? – Devon's voice said from behind me, making us turn around to see him standing with a small group of people a couple feet away from us.

-          Sure – I attempted to smile to hide my uneasiness before I turned to look at Sam. His body hadn't tensed up, nor he was eyeing Devon in a weird way. He just looked uneasy, overall – I guess I've got to go...

There was some silence between us as we simply stared at each other, before he breathed in deeply and sighed.

-          Be safe, okay? Promise to call if anything happens, I'll be there as soon as I can – he begged wit his eyes, letting go of my hands to brush some pieces of hair away from my face.

-          I promise – I nodded, standing on my tiptoes to brush my nose against his. I suddenly needed the reassurance of his touch, and my body was moving on its own accord.

-          We'll talk tomorrow, I promise too – Sam whispered, letting his hands fall to my hips to pull me closer – I love you.

-          I love you too – I didn't even need to think before replying. Without paying it much thought either, I placed the gentlest of kisses on his warm lips, finally feeling at home for the first time that day.

-          C'mon, go, they are waiting for you – he whispered against my lips, nudging my nose with his before he let go of my hips.

I turned to give him one last, unsure smile as I walked away, before I finally joined Devon and his friends.

Little did I know what that night had ahead for us all.

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Thoughts?👀👀

I probably won't post again before Christmas, so Merry Christmas to you all!😁🎄❤️