I Really Like You

Exhausted. Cold. Dark. I sluggishly dragged my legs through the airport, waiting for my brother to answer my text. I'd just landed back in the UK. It was almost midnight here, so I imagined the traffic wouldn't be too bad. I had no idea what was keeping him. I text Pedro to say I'd landed safe. He replied instantly.

Pedro: Have you found your brother yet?

Me: No and he's not answering any of my texts. I'm just about to go through Arrivals so I'll give him a call when I've cleared it.

Pedro: Are there plenty of people around? You're not by yourself?

My safety was always a priority for Pedro and it made me feel cared for.

Me: I'm in an airport. There's plenty of people around don't worry.

Pedro: I can't help but worry about you when I'm not with you. I know you're safe when you're with me. 

My heart.

I looked up and around, trying to search for Oli. There he was. Waiting with a coffee and open arms. I went darting towards him, throwing myself into his arms and wrapping my arms around his neck.

"Welcome home, sis. Missed you!" He squeezed me tight. I squeezed him back tighter.

"I've missed you more." I could feel tears burn in my eyes. I tried my best to keep them in, Oli would only mock me if I cried over him.

"This is for you. Thought you'd need it." He handed me the coffee, "Oat hazelnut latte."

"You remembered?" I gratefully took the drink from his hands and sipped it. The familiar taste was delicious.

"You've been gone three months. It would a lot longer than that to forget you."

"How's Jess?" I asked as he took my bag and suitcase from me, as we walked through the airport.

"She's, er. She's great. She'll be asleep by the time we get home though. Well, she better be." His comment made me look at him weirdly. He'd never been one to dictate to her. "You'll see her in the morning. You sure you don't mind sleeping in the spare room?"

"No it's fine. It's only for one night then I'll be home with Dad. How is Dad?"

"He's good. I, er. Well. He's going to tell you himself so don't tell him I've told you. But he, he went on a date last week."

"You what?" My heart dropped.

"He's trying to find the right time to call you and tell you. He keeps putting it off. He thinks you'll think he's trying to replace Mom." I stayed quiet. I was upset. "Seeing as you've not said anything, I'm guessing you are."

"How's Grandad?" I changed the subject. I didn't want to talk about it. If I didn't talk about it, it wasn't real.

"He's so good. He's chuffed cos his veggie patch is coming through already. Keeps giving me and Jess tonnes of beans."

"Oh my god he's the cutest. Does he know I'm home?"

"No. No one but me and Jack. He said he'll text you tomorrow morning what time you need to be there." Olivia and Jacks engagement party. Though, Olivia thinks it's a meal with Jack she's going to. "How's things with the famous boyfriend?"

"He's not my boyfriend."

"You look like a couple to me. Pictures plastered all over the internet. Of you two holding hands and kissing." My cheeks blushed.

"You've not shown Dad, have you?"

"No. Not my business to. You're happy, though, Elle, aren't you? You're doing OK?"

"I'm doing great."

I woke up the next morning at 10:49am. I surprisingly slept like a baby, and feel good when I woke up. I was expecting to feel sluggish. It was almost 4am back in L.A, Pedro would still be asleep but I text him.

Me: Slept like a baby, but prefer sleeping in a bed with you. Good morning. X

A few minutes later, he replied.

Pedro: I've slept like shit. Please come back. Good morning X

Me: Go back to sleep, it's early. X

Pedro: I'll try. What are you doing with your day? X

Me: I'm about to go and see my brother and his girlfriend. Then go home and surprise my Dad. I'm so excited X

He didn't reply instantly. I guessed he'd fallen back asleep. I pulled back the duvet and scrambled out of bed to find Oliver and Jess in the living room.

"Hey Elle!" Jess came running towards me and hugged me.

"I've missed you!" I squeezed her back, both of us rocking in unison.

"Be careful!" Oliver shouted, and I wasn't sure if he was saying it to me or to Jess. Both of us looked at him.

"Just do it." Jess swallowed hard as she turned to Oli. I was so confused, which clearly showed on my face when Jess looked at me and laughed.

"Here. I was going to tell you later. But it's best you know now." He handed me a small cardboard box.

"What the fuck is going on?" My heart started to beat faster.

"Open the box." I used my thumb to rip the tab, revealing a lot of tissue paper. My fingers scrunched apart the wrapper, revealing a white cloth. I looked up at Oli, confused. Why would I want this? "Pick it up, Elle. Jesus." When my finger tips touched the soft cotton, my heart dropped.

'Auntie's Best Friend.'

On a baby romper. Oh my fucking god. Under the romper was a scan photo. My fucking god.

"This... this is... this is real? You're, you're having a baby?" My fingertips felt ice cold as I shook. They both nodded at me in unison, Oli stood with his arm over Jess' shoulders. "Oh my god!" I ran towards them and cried. Sobbed. "I don't think I've ever been so happy in my life. You're having a fucking baby!!" More tears. So many more.

"We are. We should find out the gender before you go home, too."

"I'm going to be an auntie. I can't believe it. I'm so happy! Thank you!" I used my sleeve of my pyjamas to wipe my eyes and nose. Oli, being the caring soul he was, handed me some kitchen roll and hugged me, then kissed my head. I squeezed him so hard. "Thank you Oli."

"Not all me. It took very little from my part."

"Don't wanna hear that." I moved out of his arms and over to the scan. That was my little baby niece, or nephew. "How can I love a little blob so much already? Isn't that so weird?" My first photo of my little cherub. We sat for a while, talking about Jess' pregnancy so far, what they thought they were having, and how things had been since knowing she was pregnant. I left them just before 12 to get changed. I re-entered the bedroom and went straight to my phone. I took a photo of the scan, wanting to put it everywhere. Cherish it. I sent the scan to Pedro.

Me: The best news ever!! Look!!  I'm so happy, I can't stop crying!

Pedro: Wait what?

Shit! I started to laugh and went to type a message, but he was already calling me.

"Hey you!" I said in between laughing and crying. I sounded hysterical, which of course, worried Pedro!

"Hey. What's going on?" The sheer panic in his voice made me giggle harder.

"My brother and his girlfriend are having a baby! I'm gonna be an auntie!"

"Oh my fucking god! My old man heart. I just almost collapsed!"

"Stop, did you think that was my scan photo?"

"Fucking yes! I was like, 'You went to England to tell me you're pregnant!' My god."

"I'm pretty sure we've not been having sex long enough for us to have a baby so quickly."

"It might not have been my baby. Could have been before me."

"Noooo, no babies for me. Ever. You're safe. Isn't it just the best news? I'm so fucking happy."

"Congratulations to you, on becoming the best aunt. And your brother and his partner, too. The first baby in the family?"

"My cousin has one, but he's 6 now. So not really a baby. I can't believe it. I can't wait to spoil them."

"You're going to be great. What a great way to start your trip." I could hear banging in the background of the call. "Fucking piece of shit."

"What did you call me?" I joked, hearing that familiar boyish giggle. Ugh.

"Not you! This fucking coffee machine. I need a new one. It's shit."

"Treat yourself."

"Think I'll go look for one today. I'll go into store, I have no idea what I'm looking for when I go online."

"Surely just a machine that makes the type of coffee you like?" I mocked, laying back on the bed.

"Alright smart ass. Good job you're not here."

"Why? What would you do to me?" I bit my lip, hoping to steer the conversation into the direction I wanted it to go.

"Bend you over my knee."

"Sounds like a delicious threat. What else?"

"Put that smart mouth of yours to good use."

"Like yesterday?"

"I've only just got up, don't do this to me. Gimme a break!" He huffed, making me giggle. "You've got your party tonight haven't you?"

"I have. I can't wait to see Liv. I know I'm gonna cry. My eyes will be puffy. It's an emotional day."

"You're an emotional person. Send me pictures."

"Why do you always want me to send you pictures?"

"I like looking at you. I like them on my phone."

"You can be cute when you're wanna be."

"Go be with your family. Text me when you can."

"Bored of me already? It's not even been a day."

"Eleanor, I'll never be bored of you. Go create some memories, enjoy your time with them. Before you know it, you'll be coming back to L.A and wishing you could do it all again."

"You have a point. I'll call you tonight."

"Only if you have time. Honestly, enjoy your trip."

"Thank you."

"Speak to you soon."

"Bye Daddy."

"Fucker!" He breathed down the phone before it went silent.

"Dad! Could you give me a hand, please?" Oli shouted as he let us into our family home. We still had keys. Me, because I still lived here. Oli, because my Dad wanted him to be here whenever he wanted to be.

"Coming. You alright mate?" He entered the hallway and saw me stood there.

"Oh my god!" Dads hands went straight to his mouth, then he came running towards me. He still looked the same, tall, grey haired stylish cut, wearing his infamous polo shirt and jeans combo. "Eleanor. Darling. My god!" He hugged me hard. His familiar sent made me feel good. I was home. He was home. Oli was home.

"I've missed you so much!" He kissed my left cheek, then my right, then my head was in his hands. Then a kiss on my forehead. "My baby girl. God I've missed you. I can't believe you're here." Another hug. Another wave of his aftershave. Another squeeze of my heart.

"I've missed you." He was dragging me into the kitchen, already pulling my mug from the cupboard. It was a Harry Styles Love on Tour mug. "Don't worry, no one has drank from it since you've been gone." He smirked. Knowing I had a ick for someone drinking from my cups. "Cuppa?"

"Please."

"What's new with you, darling? How's L.A?"

"Good. I love it. It's just hot and lonely. But I'm making friends. It's going good." I sat on the kitchen stool. The same stools I sat on when I had my first day of secondary school and Mom made my favourite breakfast. The same ones I cried into my Mom's arms when I had my first heartbreak. The ones we'd sit in almost every day growing up. The ones I sat on when Mom had gone and I needed to be reminded of those memories. She was here, I felt her all around me. It hurt, but brought comfort.

"More than just friends, so I've heard from Oli. You've been on a date?"

"Yeah I have. Thanks Oll!" I shot him a look, as he shrugged at me and picked at something from the fridge.

"So, tell me about him. How did you meet?" The sound of the kettle caught my attention. I missed it. I don't think I'd ever get over the US not having kettles as a norm.

"I fell over in Starbucks. He helped me up. We got chatting."

"You fell over in Starbucks? Of course you did, Elle!" My Dad laughed, knowing my clumsiness. This man was there to take me to the hospital on the 3 different occasions I'd broken my arms. "What's he like? What's his name? Does he work with you?" I saw Oli smirk at me, wanting to see my Dad's reaction when I confessed.

"His name is Pedro. He's great. It's still all early. Nothing too serious."

"Does he work in property?"

"Why don't you Google him, Dad?" Oliver smirked, crossing his arms over his chest. Fucker. I stuck my finger up at him and watched nervously as my Dad stared between us both.

"What do you mean, Google him?"

"Just Google him. His name is Pedro Pascal." My heartbeat quickened when my Dad picked up his phone from the counter and started using his single index finger to tap away.

"Are you joking? You're winding me up."

"She's not, are you Elle?" Oliver spoke for me. I shook my head. Fuck fuck fuck.

"This," Dad turned to show me a picture of Pedro at some press event in a suit, "You're dating this guy?"

"Yeah."

"You're winding me up."

"I'm not."

"You're dating a celebrity?"

"There's pictures of her kissing him on Google, dad. Search Pedro Pascal girlfriend." Oli took the phone from my Dads hands and googled it for him.

"Are you serious?" My Dad asked, pushing his glasses back up and taking the phone back off Oli. "Eleanor, this is you!" I nodded. "How old is he?"

"47." I bit my lip, watching Oli laugh and go back to the fridge.

"Eleanor, you're telling me you're dating a 47 year old actor?"

"Yep." My voice was small. Shit, here is goes. "Are you mad?"

"Well, not really. I mean, this man is closer to my age than yours. But, I guess if you're happy and he's good to you, what can I do?"

"You're not mad he's older?"

"You like who you like. If he treats you nice, who am I to say anything?" He continued to make my tea. "Are you being serious, you're dating him?"

"Yes!"

"Well, L.A is treating you well."

"Oliver told me you're dating too." The burning had started in my chest.

"Oliver, I told you not to say anything."

"And I told you not to say anything Eleanor, you snitch."

"Well? Tell me, Dad."

"It's only been two dates. And she's not a celebrity."

"Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why are you dating?" Why are you going to try and replace Mom? Why do you need anyone? Why would you let another woman into this house, this family?

"It wasn't my intention. I'm quite happy to be by myself. But she just came along. I like her company. It's still very new. Nothing serious. And this isn't me trying to replace your Mom. No one could ever do that. I wish more than anything, she was still here." Don't fucking cry, again. Dad trotted out the kitchen without saying anything, leaving me and Oli alone.

"You can't expect him to be by himself forever, Elle. I bet he's lonely. He deserves to be happy." Shit, he had a point.

We sat round chatting, catching up. Dad asked more questions about Pedro, along with when he could meet him. He told me that he'd look into coming to L.A later in the year. When I asked if I could stay home with being over here, he replied, "Elle, darling, you don't need to ask. This is your home." Home. My favourite place with my favourite people.

"Christ, Elle. Sponsored by Harry? I think you single-handedly line Harry's pocket." Oli made the comment. I hadn't realised that I was wearing my Harry Love on Tour T-shirt from last year, and drinking out the matching mug.

"It gets worse!" I commented, reaching down to pick up the matching HSLOT tote bag.

"Christ!" Oli smirked. My Dad found it hilarious. I tried not to laugh at my Dad holding his photo up to take a picture of me all Harry'ed up, whilst Oli stood next to him, mimicking him. The glasses balanced on my Dad's nose, his phone was at arms length and he used a single finger to take the snapshot button. Oli copied my Dad's every movement and noise, causing me to laugh hysterically. My favourites. It felt like it used to and my heart was full. My Dad sent the picture to me; and I of course uploaded to Instagram.

EleanorGraceParker: Can you tell I like @harrystyles? #HSLOT 🥝🍒🪩🍉

Soon. The notification.

Instagram: @PascalisPunk: Harry if you see this, keep scrolling.. #NotJealous #NotJealousAtAll #GonnaBuyYouATshirtOfMyFace #YoureStillHotThough

I quickly text him...

Me: Feeling threatened?

Pedro: a little. Though I think you're starting to like me enough that you wouldn't leave me for him 😌

Me: its cute that you think that. I do miss your face though x

Pedro: just my face? I miss all of you. Especially those boobs x

I clicked off the conversation, not allowing myself to fall into that chat in front of my Dad and brother.

I was waiting for my taxi to Liv's surprise engagement party. I decided to get Pedro's opinion on my outfit.

Me: Do you think this looks nice for Liv's party?

Pedro: you are so beautiful. I wish I was there to peel that dress off you.

Me: someone's in the mood today... 🍆

Pedro: I just put on the T-shirt you wore the other day and I've not washed it since then and it smells of you. It's driving me crazy!

Me: look at you getting artsy with your sunshine shots! You beautiful human. I'll make it up to you when I'm back x

I locked my phone. The taxi was here.

The party was held in a small bar not far from where Liv and Jack lived. The room was filled with floral decorations, the attention to detail was of course Jacks efforts. He idolised her. I had added the earrings and bracelet Pedro had brought me, completely the outfit. The room started to fill with my friends, all of which squeezed me when they saw me.

"Off living it large with the big stars now, aren't you Elle?" Luke joked, sipping his beer.

"L.A baby!" I raised my G&T and took a sip.

"We should do a group trip soon, come visit you!!" Brad proposed.

"Please do. You're welcome any time." I was about to continue to conversation when a glass tap silenced us all. They were here. We stood around the entrance, waiting for my beautiful bestie.

"SURPRISE!" We cheered in unison, watching her eyes widened. I beamed with excitement, waiting her scan the room of all the people here to see and celebrate them. Then she saw me.

"Oh my fucking GOD!" She quickly let go of Jack and ran to me. "Eleanor! Oh my god!" We squeezed each other hard, both of us swaying on the spot. Our breathing was heavy and sparse, we were crying. "I've missed you so much. I can't believe you're actually here."

"I couldn't miss this. I wouldn't. Show me the ring." She lifted the diamond to my face. "It's so beautiful. You're gonna be a wifey!"

"You're gonna be a maid of honour! We've got a Hen Party to plan, bitch."

"You look so beautiful. I love you so much."

"I love you so much."

We linked hands, and promised to not leave each other all night. Jack came over to say Hello to me, and hugged me tight.

"Thank you for being here."

"Wouldn't miss this for the world. I'm so happy for you two. My favourites."

"We love you, Elle. It's good to see you. You look great, you look happy."

"I really am."

"Does Pedro play a part in that?" Liv asked, her thumb rubbed my knuckles.

"He contributes." I smirked as I sipped my cocktail. She knew.

"I can't believe you're fucking dating Pedro Pascal. Who would have thought you'd be with a celeb like him. Especially after that Dickhead Sam. Gone up in the world, Elle."

"Because she only deserves the best." Liv hugged me. Jack took a photo of us together, squished together with my hand on her cheek, holding her to me. He tagged me and Liv in an Instagram story.

JackCooper: the girls are reunited. Back to being the 3rd wheel.

I reshared the photo. Wanting the world to see how happy I was, being with my favourite person.

"Tell me about Pedro. Everything." Liv asked, pulling me to the side from everyone.

"Things are good."

"Good?"

"He's really great. So thoughtful. He's such a caring man."

"Good. It's what you deserve. So are you together together or just dating?"

"Just dating."

"But you want more?"

"I'm not sure. I like where we are. I don't want to rush anything."

"Do you spend a lot of time together?"

"Pretty much all weekends for the last couple of weeks. Sometimes in the week too. We're always talking."

"You spoke to him today?"

"He text me about half an hour ago. Been chatting to him today."

"You slept with him haven't you? Was it good?" My cheeks blushed. "I'll take that as a yes. As if you've fucked a celebrity. I just know he's good in bed."

"You need to meet him. I think you'd love him."

"I already do. He's so fucking hot."

We continued to chat, like we'd not spent every day we were apart texting. She already knew everything that had been happening, but just wanted to hear it. I felt the same with her. My phone buzzed in my hand, Pedro. On my Instagram.

Instagram: @PascalisPunk: replied to your story: you two are so cute. Tell my wife I said hello.

"Liv," I handed her my phone. "Look."

"Told you, baby. I'm stealing your man!" She replied to his message, but wouldn't let me see. Then she locked my phone and handed it back.

The night was going by too quickly. I had more drinks, more hugs, more catch-ups. I missed this. I loved them all so much.

"Elle, oh my god, listen. Come on!" Roll Deeps - Green Light came on. This song was on our groups playlist. We had a Spotify playlist with all the songs that soundtracked our childhood on it. This brought back summers over the park, illegally drinking and listening to poor quality songs on phones without internet. We grabbed the gang and all made our way to the centre of the dance floor. Drunk dance moves and singing filled the space, each of us grabbing onto each other, screaming the lyrics at each other, jumping in unison, as the song that soundtracked our teenage summers pounded through the speakers. When the song finished, we hugged each other. We all felt it. The 4 minutes of music taking us all back to the core memories; the times we took for granted. The memories we cherished of each other. "Let's go get shots!" Liv called to everyone. I was talking to Liam, both of us out of breath when my phone went off in my hand.

Instagram: JackCooper tagged you in a story.

I opened the notification and saw a clip of us all dancing to the song. Together. Happy. Loved. He captioned it,

'Tell me you grew up together without telling me you grew up together... the best bunch of people.'

I quickly reshared it to my story and put my phone away, wanting to spend all my time with these precious people.

I was in the back of the taxi going home, when I decided to check my phone. Ever since I turned my Instagram public, I constantly had Instagram notifications from Pedro's fans. Comments, likes, messages. Whilst they were incredibly sweet, and I was flattered, it could be mentally draining at times. The post I uploaded of me and Liv from tonight had already got 13,568 likes and 342 comments. It blew my mind. I clicked on the comments section, letting myself read through a couple and like some of them. Most of them were really lovely messages, complimenting me and Liv. Some were directly asking me if Pedro and I were dating, as neither of us had confirmed a relationship. Some of them already presuming we are and tagging their friends in comments such as '@daisypascal - this is Pedros girlfriend. Ugh I hate how beautiful they are.' And '@pedropascaldaily - you are so pretty, Pedro is a lucky guy.' That's when I noticed a comment from Pedro himself.

@PascalisPunk: my pretty wifeys 💍'

His comment alone had 1967 likes. He was so loved. I clicked on his text thread, wanting to see what he was up to.

Me: what you up to?

Pedro: watching a film. How's your night? X

Me: in a taxi almost home. Been so good. I'm so happy. X

Pedro: Happy Eleanor is my fave. Will you let me know when you're home, please? X

Me: Of course. X

I scrolled through the pictures and videos I took tonight, my heart was full. I was happy.

I was in bed, waiting for Pedro to pick up my FaceTime. It was 1:30am. Which meant it was 6:30 in L.A. He didn't answer. A ping of sadness hit, knowing I wouldn't be able to speak to him before bed tonight. But I understood he wasn't always on tap for me. He had his own life. I locked my phone and put it on charge. I tried to drift off but then Pedro returned my call.

"Hey baby." His voice was happy and smooth.

"Hey you."

"Sorry I missed your call earlier, I was grocery shopping. Lux is staying over tomorrow so thought I'd better get some actual food in."

"It worries me when I'm not with you that you're not eating properly."

"I do eat. Albeit, it's not as good as your cooking, but I survive. Just about. How was the party? What time is it?"

"Almost 2am."

"You should be asleep."

"Alright Dad. I'm fine for a little bit. The party was so good. Liv looked gorgeous. I've missed her so much."

"You both look great."

"She told me you followed her on Instagram."

"Yeah so I can see her content of you. She's got more pictures of you on her page than you've got of yourself on yours. Plus, I turned on notifications for your account so every time you post, I can know instantly."

"Stalker."

"You have no idea, baby." He winked at me.

"It's mad that you can wink at me through the screen and it still drives me crazy. Imagine being that hot."

"You don't have to imagine, you are. Made me hard seeing that picture your friend shared that you put on your story."

"Which one?"

"The one where you were dancing and singing into the camera and laughed at the end. Your smile drives me crazy!"

"My friends have been asking all about you. They want to know when they can meet you."

"You talk to them about me?"

"Of course. Is that OK?"

"Yeah. I like it. What have you been telling them?"

"Just how awful you are. So selfish and arrogant and nasty."

"Sounds about right." He giggled, then ran his hand through his air. He looked so good. In his yellow Lakers T-shirt and glasses.

"We all know that couldn't be further from the truth. I told them how great you are. How caring and generous and sweet you are. How you make everyone feel good. How you make everyone feel worthy and important. What a wonderful gift you are to everyone you meet."

"You really said that?"

"Yep."

"You have no idea what that means, how nice it is to hear those words. Thank you, baby."

"You don't have to thank me."

"I hope you know that you mean a lot to me. And I would do anything for you."

"You wanna hear something else?"

"Sure."

"Almost everyone; Liv, my friends, my dad and brother; they're all commenting on how much happier I am. Now I've come back so much happier and it's only been 3 months there. They all say it's because of you. Before you, I just existed there. I would pretty much be on the phone to them all day every day because I was working and gym and going home. Dad said it's nice to not hear from me all day every day. In the nicest possible way, because he knows I'm doing well and enjoying myself."

"If I do nothing else in life, I can die a happy man knowing I've contributed to your happiness." I felt it then. I knew it. I wouldn't tell him it was far too soon and I was scared to admit it. But I felt it.

"I have a lot to thank you for."

"What else have you got planned for the week?" Pedro shuffled himself on the sofa, getting himself comfortable. Everything he did was memorising.

"I'm going shopping and for dinner with Olivia tomorrow. Thursday I'm going for drinks with my work friends. Friday, me and my friends are going out for food and drinks, maybe bowling or something. Saturday is my Coldplay concert, Sunday is my Dads birthday so we're going to my Grandads to celebrate. Monday and Tuesday hopefully nothing and just enjoying be home."

"That sounds like a very busy week with a lot of alcohol involved." He raised his brow at me.

"I'm British, it's what we do."

"Just be careful. I'm not there to be your knight in shining armour when you get too drunk and need to be saved."

"I can actually handle my drink!"

"I'd believe you if you didn't vandalise my apartment and paint my toilet bowl."

"I didn't eat; rookie mistake."

"What are you doing for your Dads birthday?"

"Going for a meal, then just drinks and stuff I suppose. Nothing major. He's 58, not a milestone birthday and he doesn't like the fuss. Me and Oli have brought him new golf gear and, you won't even be ready for this" The excitement in my voice was evident, which made Pedro smile. My stomach flipped at the sight. "A fucking puppy! He's always wanted a golden retriever!"

"No way! I fucking love dogs!"

"Me too! Before coming to L.A, I'd saved so much money. I've been working since I was 16. There was never any pressure at home to move out and I loved being around my parents all the time. And they were great, always let me have parties - even if they were home. My friends would love their parties, would always say my parents were cooler than me and they weren't wrong! Anyway, getting off track, I'd saved all this money. About a month before the L.A opportunity came up, I was looking at buying my first house. I was working from home a lot and thought that I'd use the money I'd saved to buy a house and a dog. But then this came up, and I just went for it."

"What dog would you have got?"

"A golden retriever, probably."

"So is the dog for your dad or secretly for you?"

"A bit of both!" I smirked. "I can't wait for all the puppy cuddles. We pick him up Thursday and he'll stay with Oli. I'll send you pictures." I said before I yawned.

"Please do. Go sleep baby. I'll talk to you tomorrow."

"I'm fine, I'm not tired." I tried to suppress another yawn so Pedro wouldn't know. I didn't want to come off the phone.

"I've heard this too many times before. 'I'm not tired' then you're conked out. Or 'I'm not going to sleep, I'm just closing my eyes for a bit' then you're flat out. Go to bed. I'll be here when you wake up."

"Fine." I grumbled, wanting him to know that I was annoyed.

"Beautiful moody girl. Good night."

"Goodnight, adorable sexy old man." My comment made him belly laugh, and I swooned. As I usually did when that laugh rumbled from his chest.

"Backhanded compliment. Dream of me, baby."

"Always." We exchanged one more smile, then he hung up. I yawned again. It scared me how well he knew me already. I plugged my phone into my charger and shuffled into bed. Shit, Pedro was right, because within seconds I was passed out.

It was Tuesday, and I was flying home tomorrow. I wasn't ready to say goodbye to everyone I loved. Dad, Oli and I were having the last night together. We'd ordered Chinese takeaway, and were settling down to watch the US Office together. My phone started to ring, a video call from Pedro.

"Who's calling you?" Oli asked, throwing his fork down in defeat.

"Pedro. Not sure why he's calling." My heart pounded a little harder. Was he OK?

"Answer it then, Eleanor!" Dad spoke. Although I didn't need his permission, it made me feel less guilty to take his call on the last night I just wanted to be with my family. I left the room and headed for my room, clicking accept.

"Hey. Is everything OK?" I asked, impatiently waiting for the pixels to adjust to the WiFi and make the picture clearer.

"Hey babe. Yeah, everything is fine. Sorry to call, I imagine you're trying to soak up the last of your time with your family so I won't keep you. I just couldn't remember what time you flew home tomorrow." He was the most thoughtful person I'd ever met.

"I should get back to L.A around 1am."

"Cool. Send me the flight details, I'll come pick you up."

"Absolutely not. I'll be fine with getting an Uber."

"I'd rather come and get you myself."

"I'd rather you tuck yourself up in bed and try to get some sleep."

"I won't sleep till I know you've landed safe. And if I'm waiting up to hear from you, I may as well come and get you."

"What happens if my flight is delayed? Not happening. I'll get an Uber."

"Eleanor, please don't argue with me about this. I'm going to come and get you."

"We don't have to argue if you just let me get an Uber and stay in bed."

"If this was the other way around, and I was coming back from a trip, I'm sure you'd offer the same to me. And you'd be annoyed at me, you wouldn't take no as an answer from me." Shit, he got me there.

"Fine. Only if you're sure."

"Can you send me your flight details please."

"Sure. Are you excited to see me?"

"I quite like being able to watch a film without you talking through it, but apart from that, yes I do, I miss having you around."

"Noted. I'll keep my mouth firmly sealed next movie night."

"I quite like having your mouth wide open too, though."

"Really?" I smirked, knowing what he was hinting at.

"Oh yeah. It's such a pretty sight."

"What? When I'm on my knees or between your legs with your dick in my mouth?"

"Fuck," he whispered in a hiss. "Yeah exactly. When you look up at me with those pretty eyes of yours, and you're slurping me, drives me fucking crazy."

"As a gesture of goodwill for picking me up from the airport at an ungodly hour, I shall give you the best blowjob you've ever had."

"Eleanor, you promise?"

"Hand on heart. All the way down my throat. Throat fuck me."

"Fuck, babe, you can do that?"

"Yeah."

"Fuck sake, I hate this."

"Hate what?"

"When you say things like that, my anxiety, it-it-it, it makes me think of the other guys you've had before me. How you've done this kinda thing with other guys. I hate it."

"But now I'm all yours to do whatever you want with. Before to-" Before I could finish my sentence, my door knocked, then Oli popped his head around the door

"Everything alright?" He mumbled. He was so sweet.

"Yeah, fine. Just on the phone." I looked from Oli, and back to Pedro, who was staring at me.

"Pedro?" Oli asked, I nodded. "Can I speak with him?" I looked back at the screen, seeing if Pedro heard.

"Sure." Pedro smiled at me, the corners of his big brown eyes creased lovingly. But I could tell he was a bit nervous. I got off the bed and handed Oli my phone.

"Hey Pedro. I'm Oli, Eleanor's brother."

"Hey Oli. I've heard a lot about you. You good?" Pedro's voice started to become more faint as Oli moved out the phone. I went to follow but he closed the door behind him, leaving me alone in my room. What felt like hours, but was more likely minutes, Oli returned with my phone.

"Thanks for talking with me, mate. I'll put you back onto Eleanor. It would be great to meet you soon." Oli smiled and handed me my phone. I stared at him, silently begging him to give me any clue as to what was said between them. He just smiled wholeheartedly at me and gave me a thumbs up. Pedro had won over my brother. When Oli closed the door, I continued the conversation.

"Sorry about that."

"Don't be. Your brother is a good man."

"He really is. I was blessed with the best big brother. I love him so much. Even when he's a dick. What did you speak about?"

"Can't tell ya." He smirked. Why did he have to be so fucking beautiful!?

"You can. What did he say to you?"

"Just a little chat. Between to men who lov- er, men who care about you deeply." Was he going to say the L word!?

"Wait, between men who what me!?" I teased, feeling smug when he swallowed hard and licked his lips.

"Who care about you deeply. That's what I said, wasn't it?"

"I like you a lot, Pedro." He knew I knew what he was about to say, but I wasn't going to tease further. But I wanted to let him know, subtly, that I felt the same way.

"I like you a lot too, Eleanor." He beamed at me. My heart crushed. Melted. Burst. I was smitten.

"You're really wearing that T-shirt?" Oli commented at my attire, his arms crossed over his chest. He reminded me so much of dad.

"Yep."

"It's a bit weird."

"You're a bit weird." I rolled my eyes at my own childish response. When Pedro commented on my Harry Styles post about buying me a T-shirt with his face on it, I knew I had to do it. I brought a baggy grey T-shirt with 'Daddy's Girl' and a picture of Pedro's face on it. I was waiting till I got back to L.A to wear it, but knowing he was picking me up, I thought I'd surprise him.

"Will he not find it weird?" Oli asked, taking a bag off my Dad, who was unpacking my things from the boot. I couldn't believe I was already going back to L.A. The week had gone by so quickly.

"Inside joke, so no."

"I don't even wanna know what the joke is." He shrugged and walked in front of me.

They waited with me till I had to check in. Dad grabbed me first, squeezing me hard against his chest.

"I'm going miss you, darling. Will you let me know when you land?" He kissed my head. No matter how old I got, those kisses never lost their magic.

"Of course. I'm gonna miss you. But I'll see you soon. Real soon. I love you."

"See ya Elle. Let me know when you're back safe." Oli was next, squeezing me in his death grip. "I'll let you know when we have the baby shower."

"I can't believe you're having a little boy." My heart clenched at the thought of the beautiful little boy that was going to change all our lives.

"Me either. It's crazy that I'm going to have a son. I can't wait. Now go, be safe. Keep us updated."

Check in was surprisingly quick. Before I knew it, my flight was being called. I handed my boarding pass to the attendant, who scanned it, then looked at the screen. She scanned it again, and my anxiety started to kick in. Shit, was it a fake ticket? Had I been scammed!?

"Sorry, Miss. I'm just sorting it now for you." She smiled at me, her red lip complimented her perfect white smile.

"Is everything OK? I did book directly through the airline!?" I started to panic, thumbing my screen to try and find the booking confirmation email.

"Yes, yes. I'm just getting your seat sorted for your upgrade."

"I didn't book an upgrade?" What was going on!? Shit did I do it by accident? I got the email up, confirming it was a standard seat. I showed the attendant the email, hoping to prevent any confusion.

"We had a request yesterday, to upgrade your seat to first class. Enjoy your flight, Miss Parker." Then it hit me. Pedro. As I walked down the corridor to the plane, I pulled my phone out of pocket.

Me: YOU

Pedro: what about me? Are you boarding yet?

Me: yes I'm boarding. And about to take a seat in First Class. Do you know anything about that?

Pedro: Maybe...

Me: why!! I don't need to be in first class - stop spending your money on me. Please!!

Pedro: enjoy it baby! 💵 flown first class before?

Me: nope. And never again. I mean it, stop spending your money on me!

Pedro: can't stop, won't stop. You're on the plane for 14hrs, it's the least I can do. I wanna make sure you're comfortable.

Me: I got here fine in standard. Good job I really like you, isn't it!?

Pedro: hope you're as happy to see me as I am to see you! Have a safe flight. I'll be there when you land. I really like you xxxx