Agent Peña, Always

Negative.

Negative.

Negative.

Negative.

"Here you fucking go! I'm going to bed. Feel free to sleep in the spare room tonight!" I threw all four negative tests at him and stomped back to the bedroom. The mixture of not feeling well and the heat of our first proper argument made tears burn down my cheeks. I curled up in the middle of the bed and let the tears flow. The bedroom door knocked but I ignored it. I didn't want to, and didn't have the energy to argue with Pedro. He knocked again. I still remained quiet. I heard him open the door.

"Eleanor?" His voice was quiet and raspy.

"Go away, Pedro."

"Eleanor, just let me-"

"Please just go away!" I shouted, wanting him to listen to me and leave me alone. I heard him huff before he closed the door behind him. I buried my face into the pillows and continued to cry until I fell asleep.

I woke to a bang outside my door. It sounded like it came from the open living area. I peeled myself out of bed and went to go find the cause of it. The light was on, the brightness made me need to squint my sensitive eyes. I saw Pedro placing his belongings into his overnight bag. He didn't notice me as he shoved shirts and pants into the bag.

"Where are you going?" My comment made him look up. Only momentarily. Before he continued the job at hand.

"Home." His tone caught he off guard. Short and sharp.

"What time is it?"

"Almost 1am."

"It's late. Just stay."

"I don't think that's a good idea." He looked up at me quickly before he zipped up his bag. "I don't think any of this is a good idea, Eleanor."

"What do you mean?" My heart started to beat faster.

"This. Us. Maybe we rushed into this. We're on different pages. Maybe, I just think, we should take a break. At least for a short while. Clear our heads..."

"Are you fucking joking?" I could feel the tears burn in my eyes. "Why are you doing this? Because you thought I was pregnant? You don't even want to talk about it?"

"This is exactly why I didn't want to get into a relationship. Because this shit hurts! It's not easy for me. It fucking hurts, Eleanor! I didn't want this!"

"So don't do it? You're just going to run away over one stupid argument? You're not going to talk it through?"

"There's no point!" He threw his hands up as tears streamed down his face.

"Pedro!"

"We want different things, Eleanor!" He shouted at me. "You've been telling me the whole time I've known you that you didn't want kids. You agreed, Eleanor. You told me you didn't want them too. But as soon as this happens, you're not bothered. How? How can that be? Are you just using me? Want children with me, so you can get the fame and the money? Live off my name!"

"Do you really think that of me, Pedro?"

"I don't know what to think about you anymore, Eleanor."

"Get out. Now." There was a moment between us. Heavy breathing and direct eye contact. "Please leave." He nodded as he picked up his bag.

BANG.

I jumped awake. Sweaty and shaken from the nightmare I just had. Pedro's side of the bed was cold and empty. Fuck. Maybe it was real? I quickly climbed out of bed to go and investigate the bang outside the door. As I opened the door, Pedro was in the hallway. We both made each other jump. I tried my best not to laugh at seeing him go all wide eyed and frightened.

"What was that bang?" I asked, leaning against the doorframe.

"I kicked the fucking wall going to the toilet in the dark." He scratched the back of his head, his messy bed curls shook under his touch. He gave me a shy smile that melted me, consumed me.

"That'll teach you for not putting the light on." I teased. Seeing him sleepy and soft allowed me to push away the heated feelings from before. It was hard to stay mad at him. Though I was still mad at how he behaved.

"I didn't want to wake you."

"The door was closed, I wouldn't have known."

"Yeah well, I didn't know if the light seeped through the cracks of the door or whatever." He stood staring at me, trying to figure out my mood. I knew I could be hard to read, but Pedro usually did a great job sussing me out. "How are you feeling?"

"Not great. I don't like it when we argue."

"Me either. But I meant, are you in any pain? You still feeling sick?"

"About the same. Just tired. Feeling a little sick. But nothing major. It comes in waves."

"I'm sorry, Elle. I don't know why-"

"Can we do this tomorrow, please? It's late. I don't have capacity to do this right now."

"Sure." He gave me a soft smile. He didn't know whether to step forward and hug me or wish me a good night and go back to the spare room. It broke my heart.

"Are you coming to bed?" My question made him smile innocently at me.

"You want me with you? After how I've behaved tonight?"

"I always want you with me. Even when you're being a dick." I smiled at him, enjoying the feeling of calling him a dick. Because he had been a dick.

"Come here." He stepped forward and hugged me. We held onto each other for a while, every now and then the grip on each other would tighten slightly. "I'm so sorry. For behaving that way. I don't know why-" just as he went to finish his sentence, a sharp stabbing pain hit me in the right side of my lower back and I buckled in his arms. Fuck. Sweat formed on my forehead as my legs went weak. A numbness spread through my body, but all I could think about was the pain thumping in my back. "Fuck, Elle. Are you OK?"

"Yeah. It hurts!" I gripped onto his arms as I tried to steady my breathing. A few seconds later, the pain subsided but the sweating and numbness didn't. "Fuck, that hurt."

"Tomorrow, we're getting you to a doctors. No questions. Got it?"

"Yeah. Let's go to bed, please." He guided me to the bed and refilled my water bottle before he climbed into bed next to me. "I'm sorry for tonight, baby. I do love you. I hope you know that."

"I do. And I love you. Go to sleep, please." I wanted him to not worry about us. About what happened tonight. But I knew he would. I knew he'd find it hard to sleep tonight. He'd replay the argument over and over in his head. But I didn't think about it for long before I fell back to sleep.

My alarm went off the next morning way too early. I used to be fine getting out of bed on time for work. Well, after two or three alarms. But whenever Pedro stayed, I just wanted to stay in bed with him and found myself snoozing my alarm way too many times. After the third snooze, we got up. Pedro didn't need to be anywhere till late morning but got up with me. His red eyes proved my theory that he didn't sleep well. I didn't kiss him like I usually did in the morning when we woke up. I just got out of bed and went into the kitchen. I made us coffee and set about making breakfast for us both. Pedro followed me into the kitchen just moments after, in his shorts and T-shirt. Not his usual boxers and nothing else. I found it strange that the tensions between us made us behave in more reserved ways.

"Morning." He leant against the counter and linked his hands. I knew he wanted to come over for a kiss, but didn't want to cross boundaries.

"Morning. How did you sleep?" I asked, putting a cup under the machine to make Pedro an americano.

"Like shit. I've barely slept. I kept thinking about how I spoke to you last night." I knew it. He sighed, "I'm really sorry. I was a total asshole."

"You sound so American. 'Total asshole'" I joked, trying to make the situation light. "In the UK, total asshole translates to fucking dickhead. Or arsehole. That's very British too." Pedro laughed at my translation.

"Honestly, though. I was. And I'm sorry. I get so angry, so quickly. I've never had to account for anyone but myself. So this new guilt, I'm carrying right now, it's all new to me. I'm sorry." I was forever in awe of his openness and maturity of being vulnerable.

"I get it. I feel the same. You become so used to having to do things for yourself, like feeling things for yourself. You don't have to think about anyone else in a setting like this. There's no extension of yourself you have to answer to. But it's natural to lash out at people, especially those you're closest to. And it's only natural for you be quick and impulsive. It's human. I really do get it, Pedro."

"You're right. But it doesn't make it right."  He sighed. I took his coffee from the stand and made my way over to him. I put the coffee on the table in front of him.

"You're right. But it's how we deal with it that matters. I know, and you probably know that this won't be the last time you act on impulse and we argue. Lord knows I'm going to do it too. We're both gonna lash out, many times. We just need to learn to communicate and understand each other in those situations. You'll learn how to deal with me, and I with you. But we'll get through it. It's just going to be a learning curve." I wrapped my hand around the back of his neck and brought his head closer to mine. I pouted my lips, silently asking for a kiss. Pedro grinned into the kiss, wrapping his arms around my waist and holding me close to him. He was the first to pull away, as he buried his face into my neck. 

"You're the best. Thank you for being understanding. For dealing with me. For making me a better human."

"Ditto. I love you." I stroked his back in small circles.

"I love you." He brought his head back and looked me in the eyes as he said it.

"And just for the record, I don't want children. And if any of those tests came back positive, I would have freaked out. Like freeeeeaked out. But it wouldn't be the end of the world. I, we would deal with it. There's routes we'd have taken to not be parents, albeit not very nice ones. But we'd have made it through. That's what I was trying to tell you. Before you walked out on me..." I teased.

"God I'm such an asshole!"

"Oh you're the worst!" I winked, going back to making breakfast.

"You're not much better. Throwing 4 pregnancy tests that you peed on at me!! Never had you down at the physical type, Miss Parker!"

"Oh I'm very physical, Mr Pascal. Thought you'd have figured that out by now."

"I learnt quickly, baby." He chuckled. I made us eggs, bacon and avocado on toast for breakfast. I pushed Pedro's plate in front of him and sat opposite him. "I like mornings with you. I've never been a fan of mornings, I mean I can get up alright because I don't sleep well so I'm always ready to get up first time. But having these little moments with you, I enjoy them."

"I'm the opposite. I'm not really a morning person. That's why I set 6 alarms. But I enjoy them too. Especially before work. Having time with you to myself helps me get through the day." He smiled at my words, as he forked eggs into his mouth. "Is it good?"

"So good. Never been a fan of avocado, it's just green mush. But on this, delicious!" We sat in silence for a little bit, just the sound of cutlery hitting of plates filled the apartment.

"I had a dream last night that I woke up to find you packing your stuff and you were telling me you didn't want to be with me anymore. Made me panic when I woke up." I confessed.

"Shit, I'm sorry." Guilt flooded Pedro's face. "I dreamt that you wouldn't return any of my texts and calls and wouldn't speak to me and I was trying my hardest to get through to you and I was messaging Olivia on Instagram begging her to get you to speak to me and she was telling me to leave you alone. I guess my actions had a bigger impact on us both than we first thought."

"And that we're scarily alike?"

"That too!" He smiled at me, full tooth and big brown eyed. "We need to get you a doctors appointment."

"I'll call my doctor this morning."

"You better. I'm worried about you."

"You have nothing to worry about, I'm fine." I sipped my coffee, but silently worried. I didn't know what's as wrong, but something was.

The morning went by so quickly. We finished breakfast and I slowly got ready for work. Pedro told me I looked pretty, though I thought he was lying. I was in a black floaty slip dress and new balance with my hair in a ponytail. The most comfy, chic outfit I could muster this morning. He dropped me off at work and told me he didn't know if he could see me tonight because he didn't know what time he'd finish work. Whilst I loved spending all my time with him, the idea of having a night to myself felt needed. I was just finishing an important call.

"That's great. I'll get the Heads of Terms over to you and if it all looks good to you, please just sign them and get them back and we can exchange." I was playing with the corner piece of paper on my notebook, feeling my heart beating faster with each second.

"That's great, I'll get them send back to you this afternoon. And Eleanor, thanks so much for your help. Honestly. From start to finish, you've been brilliant. You're an asset to the company." Mr Phillips words resonated with me.

"Thank you. I'm always happy to help you. If there's anything you need from me in the meantime, you know I'm always on the other end of the line. Have a great day."

"Have a great day, Eleanor!"  The call ended and i through my phone onto the desk.

"Only gone and secured the $2.4m deal, haven't I?" I grinned like a cat at Matt.

"Fuck off! You did it?"

"He's gonna send me the terms this afternoon. Does this mean I don't have to work for the rest of the year now?" I joked as I stretched out my limbs. Letting go of the tension I'd been carrying on the call.

"I would definitely say so! Congrats, Parker, that's a huge fucking deal!" He held out his knuckles for me to fist jump. "Make sure you go and brag about it to Josh!"

"That's exactly what I'm about to do!"

Matt had an early lunch, as he had back to back meetings all day. So I decided to go out by myself. I put my AirPods in and listened to Fleetwood Mac. I'd been so consumed about todays deal, that I hadn't checked my phone. Pedro had text me earlier to remind me to book an appointment with the doctor.

Me: called doctors. Got an appointment in 3 weeks time. They said if I get any worse to go to the hospital. So obviously they're not too concerned. Wanna hear some good news?

Pedro: not particularly happy with that. Want me to call another doctors, see if you can get in earlier? And always Abby

Pedro: baby**!!!!!

Me: Who the fuck is Abby!? Thought I was your only girlfriend? And no it's fine. I'll be OK to wait.

Pedro: I didn't want you to find out like this... 😛

Pedro: if you get anymore pain, I'm taking you to the emergency room myself.

Emergency room, so American.

Me: you'll probably be too busy with Abby to take me anywhere....

Pedro: I like when you're jealous over me and my make believe girlfriends

Pedro: are you going to tell me this good news?

Me: I just signed a contract on a $2.4million deal today. I did it all by myself. Start to finish. In a record time too. A bigggg fee coming my/our way!

Pedro: my face reading your text! Always so proud of you, BABY!!

When I got back to my desk, there was an iced oat latte and a packet of Reeses Pieces left on my keyboard with a sticky note attached that said,

'You're a big deal, Parker.'

"This you, Matthew?" I asked, taking a sip of the cold drink. Delicious.

"Maybe. Good work, Elle. You got plans tonight?"

"Nope. Pretty free. Why?" I squinted, trying to suss out what he had planned.

"We wanna take you for a drink. To celebrate you taking money off rich people."

"Sure!" I was looking forward to catching up with my friends and having a drink.

The remainder of work went by really quickly. The self pride of doing such a big deal, especially in my first few months here, resonated with me all day and pushed me to do better and more. I'd text Pedro to tell him not to rush and try and see me later, as I was going out to celebrate with work. He sent me a selfie of him pretending to dramatically cry, then one seconds later of him smirking saying it was completely fine to have friends that wasn't him, sarcastically, and to have a nice time and stay safe.

"To Eleanor!" Everyone cheered, clinking their glasses together. I felt my cheeks blush at their words. There had been very little times in my adult life where I'd felt proud of myself, so the feeling I had was all too new to me.

I was enjoying the night, bathing in the praise and actually enjoying spending time with my colleagues. Since Lucas and Josh had met Pedro, they hadn't been so sleazy. Lucas barely spoke to me, and Josh kept our relationship friendly and professional.

"Shall we go down to that karaoke bar?" Josh spoke to the remainder of the group. There were about 10 of us left out. I hadn't checked my phone all night and no idea of the time. I slipped my phone out of my bag and saw it was 9:21pm. Shit. "Elle, you coming?"

"Hmmm." I knew I'd regret it in the morning. I'd paced myself with drinks, knowing that it wouldn't be a great idea when I didn't feel 100%.

"Come on! Tonight's all about you! I won't tell your boss if you're late or hungover tomorrow!" He joked as he nudged my elbow. He wasn't such a bad boss at times.

"Is Matt going?" I tried to search for him in the crowd.

"Yeah, he said he was. Think he's just gone to the toilet. You in?"

"Sure!" I sighed, hoping I wouldn't regret it.

"BABY WE WERE BORN TO RUNNNNNN!" Me and Matt screeched into the microphone. My dad loved Bruce Springsteen, he was his favourite. I couldn't help but think about how mortified my dad would be if he heard me right now. I saw Josh hold his phone up to me and Matt, as we continued to butcher the Springsteen masterpiece. I knew it would end up on social media. And moments later, he tagged me in his story. I reshared the video, because it was so awful the world needed to see it.

Me: just got home. Hope you missed me tonight x

Pedro: always miss you when I'm not with you! Hope you had a good night x

Me: didn't think you'd be awake! I missed you too. Though, if you'd have saw me on karaoke, you definitely would have broke up with me! X

Pedro: I'm just finishing Beef, it's so good. I'd recommend it to you, but you never watch anything good 🙃 I saw your story, looked like you and Matt had fun

I didn't know if it was the alcohol that made me question Pedro's tone, or my overthinking, but he seemed a bit cool with me. And he didn't send me a kiss.

Me: yeah was really fun! Always think spontaneous nights out are so much better than planned ones. You'll be pleased to know that Prince was safe and I didn't butcher any of his songs! X

Pedro: you should sleep

Shit!

Me: as should you! Let me know when you're free this week! X

Pedro: I will. Goodnight Eleanor x

I'd never had Pedro force the end of a conversation with me. We said goodnight, sure. But it was always after a lengthy chat or putting off going to bed to stay awake as long as possible, a mutual end to a conversation. I tried not to overthink the situation and settled down for bed.

At work the next day, I picked up my phone to see if Pedro had replied. He hadn't messaged me since this morning when he wished me a good morning and told me he wasn't sure if he could see me again tonight. Something in my gut told me that he was putting off seeing me, but I didn't want to question it. I'd learnt my lesson in the past to not to read into everything and let things happen naturally - not to force anything with anyone. Still, it hurt a little that I wouldn't get to see him again. Especially having spent so much time with him lately. At lunch, me and Matt decided to go for a run. Matt was a keen runner too, and we talked often about our running experiences, paces, times etc. but we'd never gone for a run together.

"Let's see what you're made of, Parker." He commented as we started to stretch out our legs. If it was one thing I'd learnt over the years of running, it was to always stretch. My body had never been more thankful than to pick up this habit.

We managed to do 8km in a healthy 50minute pace. I was quite proud of myself, considering it was 27 degrees. I took a screenshot of my running app and adding it to my Instagram story, with the caption 'didn't do too bad for our first lunch time run @MattJones1990 🏃🏻‍♂️ 🏃🏻‍♀️'

I quickly got changed and freshened up and went back to my desk. I clicked on who had viewed my Instagram story, hoping to see Pedro's name, but he wasn't there. I accidentally swiped onto my messages and saw a few from Pedro's fans replying to me.

'Good job! 👏🏻'

'Wow, impressive! Go Eleanor!'

'Go girl! Tell Pedro I said hi!'

I replied to her, telling her I would. Though I couldn't even get Pedro to reply to me.

After work, I went to do a food shop and found myself buying things for me and for Pedro; ingredients for his favourite meals and his favourite snacks for when he came over. I went home and unpacked everything, tided the apartment and changed my sheets before I showered and settled down for the night. Whilst I loved spending time with Pedro, it was nice to have time away from him and just relax. I was ploughing through episodes of the Office, and was rewatching Jim and Pam's wedding for the millionth time. It still made me cry. I was wiping my eyes with my sleeve when my phone started buzzing on the table. I was going to leave it until I saw Pedro's name flashing on the screen. I loved that he always chose FaceTime over audio calls.

"Hey." I tried my best to hide my tears.

"Why are you crying?" He squinted at me, full of panic.

"Oh, I'm just watching Jim and Pam's wedding on the Office. Always makes me cry." I giggled, crying to wipe away the last few droplets from my eyes.

"You are such a compassionate soul." He smiled, relieved. "I'm not disturbing you, am I?"

"Not at all. How are you?" Why haven't you spoke to me all day?

"I'm, ugh, I'm good." He ran two fingers over his brow. He seemed exasperated, not fine at all.

"You don't seem good?"

"It's just been a rough day. Family shit. I won't bore you."

"Well, as long as you're all alright."

"I'm good baby. Sorry I've not been around much today, just been all over the place. How was work?"

"It was alright, bearable."

"How was your run? Saw you went with Matt?" Was he pissed at me for going with Matt? I couldn't tell.

"Yeah, he's into his running too. We always talk about it and decided to try and take it up at lunch to take it more seriously. I'd love to run the London marathon one day. I wanted to do it before I was 30, but I have a little over a year to do it and I'm not nearly ready."

"You should totally do it, you'd smash it."

"I'd pass out for sure! I'm not there yet. One day, we'll see. Did you find out whether you're free the mid to end of July? Oli text me earlier to say they're going to have a baby shower for the family and friends on the 15th and I don't want to miss that."

"Shit, no. I've barely been on my phone. Let me check my calendar now." The screen paused momentarily checked his engagements. Then he was back. "At the moment, it's looking pretty free. But I imagine closer to the date something will get pencilled in." Maybe he doesn't want to come with you? Maybe it's too much, too soon?

"Oh ok, no problem. Just let me know." The screen paused again. What was going on? Again, his face popped up.

"I've just text my agent, told them to keep those dates free, that I'm unavailable. I'd love to come meet the Parkers. If you want me there." He softly smiled and melted my heart. All the anxiety filled feelings I'd been having since last night seemed to just float away.

"You're the best. I can't wait for you to meet them."

"I'm nervous. I've never done the whole, meeting the family thing. 48 years old and never met a girlfriends family. Feels weird to me."

"You'll fit right in. They're going to love you. Oli is the one who will be the hardest to crack, but you'll have no problem."

"You don't have to talk to me about older protective siblings!" He laughed. I recalled a few weeks ago when he asked me to lunch with Javiera and Lux and how I was too nervous to meet her.

"Do you want to go for dinner this week?" I asked, tucking my hair behind my ear. I don't know why I felt so nervous. The weird tension from the last two days made me feel how I did when we started speaking.

"Yes please. Tomorrow?"

"Tomorrow is good with me. I'll book somewhere." I said, watching Pedro yawn into the camera. "Do you want me to leave you to sleep."

"Nope." He yawned again. "I'm fucking tired. Haven't slept great the last two nights, but I want to stay awake to speak to you." My heart.

"I'd rather you get some sleep. I'll be here tomorrow. And you'll have the privilege of seeing my glorious face in the flesh."

"I will. And I can't wait. I'm sorry I've been so distant today, baby." He rubbed at his eyes. Something about seeing Fluffy Pedro sleepily rub at his eyes brought a sense of childish vulnerability to me that made me crumble.

"Go get some sleep and think about seeing me."

"I always think about you when I close my eyes." My fucking god. This man.

"Trying to make me cry?"

"That's not my intention. Just telling you the truth. I don't think you realise how much you mean to me, Eleanor. I can't thank you enough for what you do to me."

"Well now I am crying." I felt the hot tears burn my cheeks. "How'd I get so lucky with you, old man?"

"I'll fucking give you old man."

"Hopefully you will tomorrow. Now go and sleep before you make me ugly cry!"

"Ok ok, I'm going. Goodnight angel, sweet dreams."

"Sweet dreams, love you!" We ended the call at the same time. I headed to bed too, knowing that we were OK helped me sleep a lot better.

"Have you cut your hair?" I asked, observing the fine human in front of me. Dressed in a Coors Light jumper, blue jeans and the trainers I brought him; Pedro looked inevitably gorgeous and very dad.

"I did. Well I didn't cut it, Mira did! She's my hairdresser, by the way." He sipped his water. It was freshly cut and styled to perfection. Whilst I preferred the longer length because it showcased his curls, he looked perfect.

"She did a great job. You look so handsome." I couldn't stop staring at him. How the fuck did I manage to pull him?

"You're drooling a little bit, babe." He chuckled as he squeezed my arm.

"Can I take a picture of you?"

"You never normally ask. You're always sneaky with your camera! You don't need to ask."

"I just like your face a lot and want my phone to be filled with pictures of you." I held up my phone and giggled as he posed and pouted. "God you are just so fucking hot!"

"You're full of compliments today, Elle. I might make a habit of not seeing you for a few days. You're feeding my ego."

"I'll always tell you how hot you are. You don't need to be going days without seeing me, please." I shared the picture to my story. The world needed to see this perfect man.

@EleanorGraceParker:

"You look pretty. I like this outfit. You look really lovely." He ran his arm over the material of my jeans. I had an oversized white shirt on, with blue baggy jeans and some sandals. My hair was half up, held back with a raw clip. "This might be the first time I've seen you not wearing sneakers."

"You might be right!" I laughed, not realising how bad my trainer obsession was. "How's work looking for you at the moment?"

"I was going to speak to you about that, I need to speak to you about it." He stretched out his arms. He seemed off. I couldn't quite put my finger on it but he wasn't himself. "I've got a few weeks off. Then I have a month of filming a short film."

"How exciting? Do you know anything about what you're doing? Or am I not allowed to know?"

"You know what, I'm not even sure. I guess you're allowed to know. I've not asked. I've never needed to. I mean, Javiera is always the first person I tell when I get a job but I usually just tell her, she congratulates me and then I just speak to her when I can during filming. It's in Spain. It's a short film that's going to be premiered in Cannes. Me and Ethan Hawke are the leads."

"I don't think I've ever watched anything with Ethan Hawke in, but I know he's notorious."

"You've never watched anything!" He giggled and it was the first time today I'd seen him genuinely laugh. "Yeah he's great, real great. I'm still not quite sure how I landed the role."

"Because you're obviously good enough to be staring along side him." I took another sip of my water, watching him blush from my words.

"Well, seeing as I have the month off, I just wanted to spend as much time as I can with you and the family. I'd like you to meet my family, if that's Ok with you?"

"I mean, I've never done the whole meeting the family either and I'm shitting myself. But I'd love to meet them."

"You'll be great. They're great, too." He leaned across the table and took my hand. "I thought, maybe, we could have a weekend away somewhere. You know, nice and quiet. Not a city. Away from the city."

"That sounds really nice. I'd love that." The idea of Pedro alone for a weekend in the middle of nowhere thrilled me.

"I've got a couple places in mind. So I'll look into it and sort something. I just thought, you know, if we did a weekend you wouldn't need to get time off work and you could save your holidays for going back home."

"You're so thoughtful. But I don't mind using my leave to do things with you, too." It never failed to amaze me the compassion this man had.

"You're so gorgeous." He squeezed my hand. "Decided what you're going to have to eat yet?"

"The arrabiata for me. And if I know you, rib eye steak?"

"You know me too well, baby." He grinned. I smiled back, happy and content.

Back at my apartment, Pedro and I were lying either side on the sofa; Pedro with his head on the arm rest and legs towards me but hanging off the sofa. I had my head against the corner piece, with my legs curled up next to him. The TV was on, but we were both on our phones. I was scrolling through TikTok, watching a mixture of funny videos, animal videos, Harry Styles videos, of course. And the occasional Pedro one. Every time Pedro heard his own voice, he sniggered and shook his head disapprovingly but secretly loving it. I would occasionally show him the edits I loved.

"Oh shit!" I mumbled to myself, rewatching a video a fan made of him in the green outfit in Narcos.

"What?"

"I think I need to persevere with Narcos..." I paused the video and tilted my phone to allow him to see himself. Looking like a god. "The bit where you scratch your stomach, my goddddddd."

I twisted the phone back to me in time to see that scene again. Fuck.

"You don't need those videos, I'm right here!" He belly laughed as he looked at me over the top of his phone.

"Yeah, but agent Peña isn't!"

"Me or Agent Peña?"

"Agent Peña, always."

"I have no idea how you're playing me off against myself and why the fuck it's making me jealous. Just love meeeeeeee!" He roared with laughter. It was so infectious. I smiled back and flicked to the next video. It was of Harry on tour, dancing around to Treat People With Kindness. From the repetitive same 20 seconds of the song, Pedro knew I was watching it on loop. "Fucking Harry Styles!" He rolled his eyes.

"I wish I was." I side eyed him, seeing him stare at his phone screen.

"Did you know he's playing the Forum the weekend?"

"Don't." I threw my hands down to my legs. "When I knew I was coming over to L.A, one of the first things I did was try and get tickets for one of the L.A shows. But it all sold out too quickly."

"That's a shame. That would have been really cool for you."

"Please don't rub it in. It would have been bucket list for me. Like that best time of my life. Here, and if I got to see him in New York."

"Yeah that would have been cool, too. Oh, man, that's a real shame." He smirked over the top of his phone. "You'll just have to make do with spending the weekend with me."

"Eh, you're no Harry but you'll do I suppose." I gave him my best smile.

"I'll do? I'll do, Eleanor! Wow. Just when I planned something really fun for us to do as well..." He shook his head but still looked at his phone screen.

"You've planned something?" I put my phone down and stared at him. I'd never been in a real relationship. And the only one that I had that was merely a relationship was with Josh. In the time we spent 'together', he never planned anything. So having Pedro who was incredibly thoughtful and made the effort, meant so much to me.

"Yeah. And you'd love it. But if I'll do, then I suppose I'll just have to find someone else who appreciates me more!" He pouted and fluttered his lashes. I loved his playful moods.

"Yeah, maybe Abby? You're other girlfriend?" I teased, remembering his typo earlier.

"Eh, I don't think she's into Harry Styles."

"Wait, what? What do you mean?"

"I said I don't think she's into Harry Styles. But it's fine, don't worry."

"Wait. You're going to see Harry this weekend?"

"Yeah. Well, I thought I'd take you to see him. But I'm just meh, I'll do."

"Pedro shut the fuck up. You got tickets for Harry?" My body tingled.

"Yep."

"Pedro, shut the fuck up. You've got tickets? For Harry Styles?"

"Yes Eleanor." He started to giggle at my response. My body felt numb.

"You're taking me to see Harry Styles. This weekend?"

"Yes Eleanor." Before he could say anything else, I jumped on him and wrapped my body around him as tightly as I could. I felt the tears burn in my eyes. "I really wanted to try and keep it a secret till the weekend but then you might have planned something and ruined it." His hand rubbed at my back.

"I love you so much." I peppered his face in kisses before planting a long and meaningful one on his lips.

"If you're this emotional now, I dread to think what you're going to be like when we're there." He grinned up at me as I straddled him.

"I honestly can't believe it. I'm getting to be in the same room with my two boyfriends. I might pass out."

"One boyfriend and one celeb crush." He corrected, letting his mock playful jealousy out.

"Hey, you're more than a celeb crush." I ran my thumb over his moustache. I loved it.

"Yeah, I'm the boyfriend." Magic words.

"It might just be the best day of my life. I can't believe it. We're going to have the best time. I promise. Are you excited?"

"I'm excited to see you see him." This man was doing this for me. And only for me. I was forever in awe of his selflessness.

"You make all my dreams come true. Thank you."

"You're welcome baby. But just so you know, I'm not dressing up."

"We'll see about that." I'm going to see Harry fucking Styles with Pedro fucking Pascal. Am I dreaming?

We climbed into bed and naturally gravitated towards the centre of the bed and moulding into our usual snuggle position. Pedro on his back, and me cuddled under his arm with my hand on his chest. I could feel a weird energy from him, he hadn't been right since our argument and it scared me.

"Are you OK?" I asked, moving my head to look up at him.

"Yeah I'm good baby." He gave me a small smile but I knew he wasn't good.

"Promise. On my life." I knew I shouldn't force him, but I knew he wouldn't promise because he didn't feel good. I just wanted him to tell me the truth. He stayed silent. "I know you're not good. You've not been yourself the last few days. I just need you to tell me how you're feeling. You don't need to tell me why. But I don't want you to lie to me. Tell me if there's anything I can do to help you." He stared at me, I could see his dark brown eyes in the darkness. They glistened.

"I just feel so shitty."

"I'm sorry to hear you're not feeling great. Is there anything I can do to help?"

"No. You're great." He kissed my head and squeezed my shoulder. "Thanks for checking in." I guessed he didn't want to talk much more and I wasn't going to push it.

"Thank you for being honest with me. I'm always here if you need anything. I love you." I kissed his chest through his T-shirt and snuggled back into him. I started to listen to Pedro's heart beat; allowing the rhythm and his soft breaths rock my head. His breathing gentle, his heartbeat steady. Up and down, in and out.

"I argued with my family. With my sisters. My brother, he's so chilled about everything. But my sisters, they're fiery. Tuesday, when I said I couldn't get off work. I lied. I got off work around 5:30. But I just needed to clear my head. I'm sorry for lying to you."

"That's OK. It wasn't a great time. You need your own space too. That's really OK." It hurt to know Pedro lied to me because he didn't want to see me. But he had his reasons, I'm sure.

"It's not that I didn't want to see you. I just didn't know how to process how I was feeling. I was so angry. Angry at the thought of us maybe becoming parents. You know, I've never gone through that. Never had an experience with a woman where I thought, shit I might be a dad. It brought up a lot of feelings." I kept my head on his chest, but started to rub circles on his arm, to let him know I was awake and listening. "My mom, she er, she killed herself when I was in my 20s. And I, fuck!" His profanity made me lift my head. He was crying. I took my thumb and ran it across his cheeks to collect his tears. "I think I can talk to you about it because I think you know how that feels. You've never told me how your mama passed away. But you talk about her and her death the same way I do with my mama. So I think that's what happened."

"Yeah, my mom killed herself too. I'm so sorry Pedro."

"So you know how it feels to have the centre of your whole world just ripped away from you. To have them there and then have them gone. Forever. Like they stop fucking existing but you don't. And you have to go through every fucking day, knowing you'll never see or speak to them ever again. It's unbearable. And my siblings, they were only kids. I knew I had to look after them. All of them. And my dad. I knew I would do anything to protect them. But I swore I'd never be a Dad. Because I couldn't deal with how I felt about my mom. I just couldn't stomach the thought of having children. So having those thoughts the other night, thinking about you having a baby. My baby. It all came flooding back to see my younger siblings and realising how I felt in that moment. The sheer panic. I couldn't do it. I was so angry. At you. At myself. At everyone." More tears came and I tried my best to collect them all. "Tuesday afternoon, in between interviews when I grabbed some lunch, I called Javier but she didn't answer so I called Lux and she actually fucking answered. She never usually picks up the phone. And I told her what happened, and how I behaved. And she started shouting at me. Because she's see it, right. She's seen me go through it all. How I've pushed every woman away because I couldn't let anyone close cos the thought of losing them hurt too much. And she knew, she knows that something between me and you works. That it's mean to be. Because you're the only woman I've ever let in. Apart from her and Javiera. No one has ever got me the way you have." Hot tears streamed down his face as he spoke about me and our relationship. I couldn't hold back my own tears anymore. But I tried my best to stay silent. Pedro didn't need to know I was upset. "And she starts shouting at me, calling me an idiot and how I could have fucked it all up with you and how I needed to fix it. And I already knew that. I already fucking knew that everything she said was true. But I just didn't need to hear it. I just wanted her to lie to me and take my side. But she didn't. So we argued. And we never really argue." Shit! The feeling of guilt washed through my body. "Javiera calls me back. And she's the same as Lux. Except way more ruthless. And we argue. And I hang up the call. I've never cut off the call with her in my life. I've always been too scared to!" He let a small giggle pass through his lips. "I knew I was sabotaging myself. Hitting out at all the women I care about the most. Anyway, Lux comes by my apartment. We argue some more and she storms out. We've made up since. Javiera too. But I just can't shake off this guilt. Of how I treated you. And my sisters. How fucking awful I was to you all because I can't control my own stupid fucking feelings."

"I don't really know your sisters, so I suppose I can only speak for myself. But you have nothing to be sorry, or feel any guilt for. Thank you for opening up to me. I hope I can become a safe space for you."

"You already are. I've never been this open and honest with anyone in my life. Ever, Eleanor. It scares the shit out of me. Because I'm giving you so much of myself, all the parts of me that I've guarded my whole life, I'm just giving them up for you. So fucking easily. What would I do if you leave me one day? What if I fuck up and you go? I can't lose you as well." My heart broke. It ached. I just wanted to protect this man at all costs.

"I promise, that as long as you want me, I'm here. And I'll do whatever I can, whatever I need to do to protect and look after you. So please never worry about me going away. Whatever goes on, we'll be together, going through it together." He stared at me for a few seconds, not saying anything, no blinking.

"I couldn't, I don't want think about- thank you, for fixing all my broken parts." I watched a single tear slide down his cheek and into his fluffy beard.

"Ditto, my Pedro." I cupped his face in my hand. "I'm really proud of you. It must have taken a lot for you to open up to me. It's not easy to be vulnerable, I know. You're amazing. I appreciate you."

"God. Shit." He breathed heavily before he threw his arm across his face and started crying. Sobbing. His shoulders shook as he let it all out.

"Hey, hey it's OK. I've got you. I'm here. Just let it all out. You're doing great." I held onto the arm that was across his face and cuddled into his side. It was painful to see him so upset, but I was proud of him for doing so.

"It's not, it's just-" He pulled his arm away from his face and showed me all of himself. Red, watery eyed, upset. "I've never felt everything, like this, all at once. All those feelings of anger and upset for my mom, and my sisters. Of how I treated you. Then just seeing you, now, how you are with me. Patient and beautiful and understanding. I've never felt a love like this. I've never felt so good and so scared in my life. You're everything to me, I hope you know that."

"I do. And I hope you know that too. You're everything to me as well." I rubbed at the tears that danced down his face. "Are you OK? Do you need anything?"

"Just a cuddle. And some sleep. It's been a shitty few days."

"Come, come cuddle into me." I lay back and opened my arms for Pedro to scoot over to me. He placed his cheek on my chest, his curls tickled my chin as he got comfortable. "Love you. Sweet dreams." I kissed the top of his head and placed my hand on the crown of his hair, gently stroking the dark locks.

The next morning, I woke up before my alarm. I decided to slide from the bed, cautiously trying not to wake Pedro who was fast asleep and snoring slightly. It was 6:19am, he still had time to sleep. I wanted to do something nice for him. I went to make myself coffee and prep for breakfast. Whilst my coffee was brewing, I checked what was on at the cinemas, seeing what Pedro would be most interested in watching. I noticed they were showing the Shining, and whilst Pedro had watched it many times before, he would appreciate going to see it again. I booked two tickets for the 10:30pm premiere and made a note to get his favourite snacks at lunch. I remembered that Pedro had mentioned yesterday that he'd not had Chinese food for a while, so I made a reservation too. Then I started breakfast. I chopped up some fresh fruit and arranged them in bowls on the table. I made American pancakes, with some bacon and grabbed the box of Captain Crunch cereal Pedro ploughed through all the time. It was his favourite. I arranged the table to look presentable and noticed it was 7:15am. I decided to wake up Pedro. I padded to the bedroom and pushed open the door, noticing him on his stomach. Starfished in the middle of the bed.

"Pedro. Pedro." I gently called his name, sitting next to him. I used my hand to softly tap the exposed skin on his back. He started to stir but didn't open his eyes. "Pedro. Babe. Wake up."

"What time is it?"

"Almost 7:20am. I'm sorry to wake you. I've gotta get ready for work soon, and I wanted to have breakfast with you."

"You're so cute." He finally opened his eyes and smiled softly at me. Sleep was etched on every inch of his face. I never fancied anyone more.

"I know." My conceited response made Pedro chuckle. "Come on, before it gets cold." I stood up and kissed his brow, before leaving the room. Hoping he'd follow me.

"Look at all this. What's the special occasion?" Pedro's eyes darted over all the foods at his fingertips as he sat down. I placed his Americano on the table where he took a seat.

"Just wanted you to know that you're loved and cared for."

"Baby," He grabbed me by the waist to stop me from moving. "I've never doubted for a second your love or ability to care for me. No-one has ever made me feel how you do. You didn't need to do this for me. Thank you, though. It looks delicious."

"I know you said you're not working today. So you can stay here if you want whilst I'm at work, or you can go home. But you have to meet me out of work. I've made us a reservation at the Chinese restaurant you keep talking about. Then we're going to the Chelsea theatre to watch a rerun of The Shining tonight."

"Wait what? Why are you doing this, babe?"

"Because I want to."

"You're the best."

"Says the man who got me tickets to see Harry tomorrow?"

"You're welcome baby. And thank you for breakfast." Pedro put a slice of banana in his mouth and overly chewed like a toddler, smacking his lips together and grinning.

"Ugh. I'm so hungry. Shall we lunch?" I asked Matt, who was smacking away on his keyboard. The two of us had been busy all morning and had barely spoke.

"Yes, let's. What you thinking?"

"I'd like to get a juice from the stall down the round, on the corner of main. But easy in terms of food. Maybe a sandwich?"

"There's the deli shop near the juice bar. Shall we just go there and eat outside?" Matt suggested.

"Sounds good to me! I'm just going to go to the bathroom then I'll meet you outside?" I said, grabbing my bag. I decided to text Pedro and see what he was up to.

Me: How's your day?

Pedro: all good. Nothing exciting. Have you eaten yet?

It always made me smile how he'd text to make sure I'd eaten, or slept well. He was so caring.

Me: about to go and eat. Have you eaten?

Pedro: No, but I will in a minute

I finished in the bathroom and was making my way back out to meet Matt by my desk. We were talking about something Sandra had said over coffee this morning, when Matt opened the door. On it the pavement stood Pedro, with flowers.

"What are you doing here?" I grinned, seeing him smile at me.

"I wanted to surprise you. To say thank you for last night, and this morning. Matt, good to see you." Pedro extended his hand to him, Matt took it like a fanboy. Pedro wouldn't have guessed, but I could tell by the way his eyes glistened. "Thanks for your help."

"Wait, you're in on this?"

"I was happy to help! Enjoy lunch, both."

"Do you wanna come with us?" I asked, feeling guilty about leaving Matt by himself.

"Noooo. I'm good. I've got things to do. But thank you. See you soon, Pedro. Good to see you again." He waved at us and headed down the street. I turned to Pedro and saw him twist his mouth as he stared at me.

"What?"

"Nothing."

"I can tell by that look that there's something. What's wrong?"

"Why'd you want him to come to lunch with us?" Pedro twisted his moustache. He was pissed.

"I just felt guilty about standing him up. We pretty much always go to lunch together."

"Right. So he won't mind letting me have you for one, surely?" He ran his hand over his moustache and down his face.

"Well, no. I was only offering jeez." I didn't realise that Pedro would have found it so offence.

"Sorry, Eleanor. I didn't mean for it to be like that. It's just, he gets to spend a lot of time with you. So I'd just like to spend time with you."

"I spend way more time with you than Matt. And, there's nothing for you to be jealous about. And don't deny it, I can tell you are." I leant up and kissed his lips.

"He's a good looking guy. Real good looking."

"Yes he is. But absolutely not my type. I like my men old, fluffy haired and with patchy beards."

"These are for you, angel." His choice of pet name caught me off guard and I was winded. Pedro was a heady mix of being dangerously hot and obsessively adorable.

"They're beautiful. Thank you my love." I took the bouquet from his hands and kissed him again. "I'm excited to spend my lunch with you."

"I was thinking we could go to that place near the park, they do great sandwiches. We can eat them outside, the weathers gorgeous."

"Sounds perfect." We linked hands and strolled down the street. "We need to stop by a convenience store, we need to buy snacks for the cinema later."

"I can't wait. Thanks for planning this. I'm hoping that, because you like The Shining too, you won't talk through the film!" He playfully scolded.

"I'll be on my best behaviour. I don't want you to tell me to shhh in front of the cinema again!"

Saturday morning. I was going to see Harry Styles with Pedro later on in the evening. I woke up with butterflies. I couldn't help but think about how fortunate I was. And how so many girls would want to be in my position. I was incredibly lucky. Pedro was reading one of my books on the sofa, whilst I scrolled through Instagram. I'd put a post up on my feed; a June photo dump. The pictures contained scenic shots from NYC, a photo of me and Pedro together at his The Last of Us premiere Bella had taken of us, the beach, a few from back home and a picture of Pedro on the sofa watching the TV which drove his fans wild. A comment caught my eye.

I'm sorry how did she even pull Pedro?Honestly do not see what he sees in Eleanor. He can do so much better!

I couldn't disagree, it was the complete truth. I knew he could. And I was fearful of the day when he realised it too.

"Why are you pulling that face?" Pedro asked over the top of the book.

"What face?"

"You look like, kinda upset but you're smiling? What you looking at?"

"Oh, just some comment on my post on Instagram."

"What does it say?" He put the book down.

"Just some girl, saying you can do better than me. It's fine, I don't care. I already know that."

"Let me see." He sat up, holding out his hand for my phone. I gave it to him and watched his brow dip reading the comment. "Ignore it baby. It's not true. I'm punching and I know it."

"She's not wrong. You can do so much better than me. Anyone you wanted. One of those Hollywood girls."

"I want you. So I'll have you. You're way more precious and pretty than those Hollywood girls." He grabbed his phone and I watched him smile.

"What are you doing?"

"Nothing. Just some light educating." He winked at me and continued to type. Shit. I knew it. He was replying to the comment. I refreshed my post and saw:

PascalisPunk commented on your post: life with you 🥰🥰

I clicked on the comment the girl had left and saw Pedro had replied to her too.

PascalisPunk: @sophiaispunk She fell at my feet in a Starbucks and looked up at me with the prettiest eyes I've ever seen. Been hooked since. She's the best. The most caring/thoughtful/ funniest person ever. Oh, and she's smokin' hot. Have a great day 👍🏼!!!

"Remind me to not point out the shitty comments to you again! You didn't need to defend me, but I appreciate you."

"Got your back, baby!"

"Are you ready for my outfit reveal?" Pedro called from behind the door. I felt giddy, knowing I was hours away from seeing Harry fucking Styles. It helped that I was going with Pedro, and that he'd put so much effort into making the experience the best time for me. I shouted an overly enthusiastic 'Yes' and held my breath as Pedro opened the door.

"Ta-da!" He held out his hands, revealing himself dressed in blue jeans, blue New Balance trainers, a Harry Styles Love on Tour T-shirt; paired with a pair of heart shaped pink sunglasses and a feather boa.

"Oh my god, OH MY GOD!" I squealed, "You look so cute!"

"I feel like a dick!" He chuckled, throwing the boa over his shoulder. "I did some research. Apparently there's a dress code. This was the most I was willing to do!"

"The fact you're even taking me is just the best. But then you're willing to throw on some silly glasses and dress up, just to make the experience better for me, I just love you so much."

"Never underestimate the things I'm willing to do for you, Elle." He wrapped the boa around my neck and pulled me onto him so I crashed into his chest.

"I don't. I'm so grateful for you." I hugged him as hard as I could.

"I brought you a matching boa and glasses." He pointed to the bed.

"You are so cute. I love you. Buying us matching accessories. Can't believe you're willing to dress up for me. I hope you know I'd do the same for you."

"You'd dress up for me?" He wiggled his eyebrows.

"Oh yeah. And after tonight, after all the effort you're putting in for me, it's only right I dress up for you. What do you want me in?"

"Something lacy. Something red." His big eyes darkened as his fingertips dug into my skin.

"I'm sure I can sort that for you. I never thought I'd see the day I'd catch you in a Harry Styles T-shirt. You look so hot! I'm so happy."

"You can have this shirt after tonight, I doubt I'll be wearing it again."

"I won't turn down free clothes from you. Especially if they're Harry branded."

"Shall we go? We can grab a drink beforehand, you know, calm your nerves." He teased. I nodded and squealed.

We arrived at the concert and I was full of nerves. I could feel my body shake.

"Are you OK?" Pedro's thumb rubbed the back of my hand as we walked through the arena.

"Yeah I'm fine. More than fine. I'm so excited. And so nervous. I dunno why I get nervous." I rambled, feeling the adrenaline spike through my body as I saw the merch stand. "Look at all the beautiful girlies in their cute outfits. Ugh, I love Harries so much."

"What's a Harry?" He looked at me confused, but smiling at my stupidity.

"A Harry fan. But with and IE instead of a Y. Wait till you see them tonight, how they dance together. It always makes me cry. Seeing them make friends, ugh I love them."

"You have such a good heart." He praised me. His words meant more to me than he could ever know.

"Can I have a quick look at the merch?"

"Of course." He grinned at me. I saw a new design hoodie that I hadn't got and a poster that I loved. "I'm gonna get those."

"I'll buy them for you." Pedro went to get his wallet out.

"Nope. No way. You got me tickets. Wait, did you have to buy these tickets or did you get them from one of your contacts?" The thought just crossed my mind.

"Both."

"You paid for me?"

"Yeah. I asked around to see if anyone could get me tickets and they offered me these. Apparently they're good seats."

"Can I give you the money for my ticket?"

"You can. But I don't want it. Thanks for offering though."

"You're so annoying!" I groaned, cuddling into his side and resting my head on his chest. I grabbed the hoodie and poster and fought with Pedro on who was paying. I won and I was happy with myself for beating his long arms and debit card to the contactless pay machine. We took our seats and I impatiently waited for Harry to grace the stage.

"I might scream when he comes out. So I'll apologise now. In fact, I'm just going to apologise for how I'll behave tonight."

"You do whatever you want to baby, it's all for you. I'm just here for emotional support and to see you in your happiest place."

"Oh my god, I'm shaking!" I tried to steady my hands as I held my phone up. Daydreaming was playing, meaning Harry was about to step on stage. I couldn't contain my excitement.

"Do you want me to record it for you?" Pedro took out his phone and held it up. I forgot to reply; I was too fixed on the screens and waiting for my favourite to come out. Then there he was. Dressed in pink and blue and sequin tassels.

"Oh my god he looks so perfect I love him so much!" I squealed grabbing onto Pedro's arm.

"He's literally just walked onto the stage!" He laughed at me, as he gripped my hand. I started jumping up and down, in time with Harry and all the other fans. I was in heaven! I saw Pedro using his phone to record me, but I was too captivated on Harry to ask questions.  The beginning of Keep Driving played and I squealed like a child.

"Oh my god I am so happy!" I gripped my hands together, as if to contain my excitement.

"You're so fucking cute!" Pedro put his arm over my shoulder and bopped along with me as I sang my heart out. Just before the best bridge in history, I turned to Pedro.

"This is my favourite bit! I apologise now but you just HAVE to scream the lyrics!" I was too lost in the music to care about what I sounded like.

"Passports in footwellsKiss her and don't tells"

I could hear Pedro and turned to see him singing along! Word for word. The widest grin naturally plastered across my face.

"Wine glass, puff pass, tea with cyborgsRiot America, science and ediblesLife hacks going viral in the bathroomCocaine, side boobChoke her with a sea viewToothache, bad moveJust act normalMoka pot Monday, it's all goodHey, youShould we just keep driving?"

"I didn't know you knew the words!" I hugged him as hard as I could.

"I've been practicing. I wanted to be able to sing along with you. So we could sing your favourite songs together." I squeezed him so hard.

"You're the best. I love you so fucking much."

Harry played song after song. Each one so perfect and beautiful. I sang my heart out, danced around and had the time of my life. He was walking down to prepare for the next one.

"These next ones are going to kill me. Cinema into Music for a Sushi Restaurant, which is my favourite song in the world, into Treat People with Kindness into What Makes You Beautiful. 4 of the best songs ever created. I'm gonna burst!"

"Do you know the set list?" Pedro chuckled, brushing hair that had got stuck to my sweaty brow.

"Pretty much. I'm so happy right now. With you. Here. Perfection."

The 4 back to back songs that meant so much to me were heavenly. A core memory for me was seeing Pedro sing along to Music for a Sushi Restaurant and dancing around with me to Treat People with Kindness. I'll never get over that moment. I managed to capture a video of us singing and dancing, knowing I'd treasure it forever.

Before we knew it, the show was over and it was bittersweet. My voice was going as we headed back to the car. I was sticky and sweaty and overly emotional. "I think tonight might just be the best night of my life, so far. Thank you."

"You're welcome baby." He kissed my forehead. "I'm glad you had fun."

"I did. The best time ever. Did you have fun?"

"He was pretty great. I enjoyed you more, though. You wasn't wrong, you just come alive when you're at a concert. You just glowed. I don't think you stopped smiling, apart from that song that made you cry."

"Matilda. Yeah, that'll get you. The line "You talk of the pain like it's all alright" just gets me." I felt myself choke up just speaking about it. "What did you make of the show?" I pulled out my phone and started sneakily recording my conversation with Pedro, wanting to capture the moment he admitted he was now a Harrie so I could send to Olivia.

"I think he's great. He's very talented, he's great at what he does. The songs are good. He's so handsome it's annoying! I can see what you like him. Annoyingly." Pedro noticed my camera as he climbed into the drivers side. "Why are you recording?"

"What would you rate tonight out of 10?"

"Solid 9.5"

"What would have made it a 10?"

"If you looked at me the way you look at Harry." He giggled.

"What was your favourite moment?"

"I liked dancing with you to Treat People with, what? What it is? That song? I like that one. It was so wholesome to see the crowds of people dancing. That was my favourite bit. What about you?" He sipped the bottle of water he left in the car.

"Too many to choose. I always love the Whale during Kiwi though. So hot!"

"What's the whale?"

"The bit where he spat the water out of his mouth. I want him to do it in my face."

"You find that attractive? I can do it to you?" Before I had chance to protest, Pedro forcefully emptied the contents of his mouth directly in my face. The two of us erupted into laughter. "I'm so sorry, Eleanor! I thought it was going to come out more of a spray; not a shower!" I held my stomach as I laughed too hard.

"It is meant to be like a spray, not a water gun!" I said between fits of giggles. "I was going to send that recording to Olivia but now I'm definitely going to have to show everyone what you just did to me!" I used the back of my hand to wipe away the wetness from my face, as Pedro clung onto my arm and continued to giggle.

The morning I woke up pretty much the same time as Pedro. He rolled over, leant on his elbow to look down at me and kissed me hard and sweetly. His hand trailed down my side and we had sweet Sunday sex. He was lying on my chest, the two of us bathing in the post sex bliss.

"What time is it?" I asked, running my fingers over the skin on his back, enjoying the feel of his muscles tensing under my touch.

"Almost 10, like 9:48am."

"Shit!" I hissed, tapping his shoulder to move him out the way. Pedro looked up at me confused, leaning on his elbow and covering his modesty. "I'm going for a run with Matt at 10am. I told him to come here." I ran into the wardrobe and grabbed the first pair of leggings and sports top I could find. I stood in my walk-in, quickly throwing underwear on, a sports bra and my gym outfit. I walked back into the bedroom to tie my hair up.

"You didn't tell me you were going for a run with Matt today?" Pedro was sliding on his boxers and looking at me confused.

"I swear I did?"

"No you didn't." His tone was clipped and cold. Shit! Was he going to get mad?

"Well, I'm sorry for not telling you." I secured my hair with my hair tie and hair sprayed the flyaways.

"Did you try and keep it a secret from me?" Pedro stood with his hands on his hips, scowling at me.

"What? No, of course not. How could I when I asked you to stay last night? I genuinely thought I'd mentioned it to you. It's not a big deal is it?"

"I mean, forgetting to tell me something isn't, generally. But you keep wanting to spend time with Matt. It's a bit weird to me."

"How's it weird? I work with the guy I see him all the time. He's the only person I know here that likes to run."

"Surely you don't need to run with someone? You usually go out in your earphones and do it alone?"

"Yes you right. And I'll continue to do that. But Matt suggested we start running together a few times a week. We both want to take it more seriously and we're encouraging each other. Honestly, is there a problem here?"

"So you see him all day every day at work, you spend your lunches together, and now you're meeting on the weekends?"

"Well yeah I guess so? But still, what's wrong with that? I told you that I don't fancy him."

"Oh come on! Like you'd tell me if you did! You wouldn't say "yes Pedro, I do fancy him but I know you're my boyfriend so I'll stop myself from liking him" you wouldn't admit it if you did."

"This is really ridiculous. I've told you I don't fancy him. I've asked you to come running with me and you said you didn't want to take it up; that running isn't for you. If I make other friends that like running, I'll go with them too. This isn't exclusively a me and Matt thing. It's really just two friends going for a fucking run!"

"Ok, whatever." Pedro walked out of the bedroom. I sighed and ran my hands over my face. I don't know what had gotten into him lately, but it was difficult to explain anything to him whilst he was in one of those moods. I heard the front door knock and panicked. I almost ran out the bedroom, not knowing if Pedro was going to open the door and kick off. I saw him turn the handle and smile at Matt, asking him to come in. "Eleanor's just getting ready, she won't be a minute. How are you?" Pedro seemed overly friendly to Matt. Matt wouldn't tell, he'd just think Pedro was being his usual nice guy self. But I knew he was acting up.

"Yeah, I'm great. Thanks man. How about you?" I stood back, hiding behind the wall to try and watch their engagement.

"Yeah I'm good too, thanks bud. So you're into your running?" Pedro crossed his arms and tilted his head. Was he actually interested or trying to prize information out of him?

"Yeah, massively. I'm not very fast though. More of an endurance runner, like Eleanor. She mentioned she wanted to do the London Marathon. I'd never be able to do that."

"Yeah, me either. She's great, though. At everything she does." Was he trying to lead Matt into falsely saying something he could use against me later? Jesus.

"Yeah she's a great girl. She's really into you, you know. Always talking about you at work. I feel like I know quite a lot about you, just from her little stories about you."

"Really? Thanks man, that's nice to know. I'm pretty hung up on her too, you know."

"I think you scared some of her admirers off." Wait what? No shit!

"Oh really? How so?"

"There's a group of guys at work who always used to flirt with her, and she's never shown them interest, even before you came into her life and we would just laugh at them because she would make it so blatantly obvious she wasn't interested, yet she could make them do anything she wanted them to do. You come along and they barely say hi to her now. It's great!" I couldn't read Pedro's mood. He look angry; but he kept a smile on his face. I watched the tip of his tongue touch his top lip as he nodded before he spoke.

"Haha, no way! So what about you? Married, dating?" Subtle, Pedro! 

"Actually, I've just started dating this girl. Really early days, but you know, it's exciting." I needed to save Matt. I walked out and smiled at Pedro, then at Matt.

"Hey." I walked to stand in between them.

"Matt was just telling me about the new girl he's dating!" Pedro tapped Matt's shoulder and smiled at him, and grinned at me and I know he was about to make a comment. "Maybe we could go on a double date?" What the fuck!?

"I don't think Matt would want us crashing his dates, it's still early!" I apologetically smiled at Matt; who had no clue that Pedro was just doing this to be a dick.

"I mean, that sounds pretty cool to me. I'm sure Emily would be up for that too? I'll text her and let you guys know."

"Great!" Pedro clapped his hands together, "I'm sure we'll have a lot of fun!"

"Shall we go?" I asked Matt, wanting to get out the apartment before Pedro did something to really fuck this up.

"You going? Have a great time, baby!" Pedro grabbed my face in his hands and kissed my lips so hard it was painful. I felt my teeth dig into my lip, and the taste of blood filled my mouth. I pulled away sharply. I was so annoyed. "Matt, my friend, good to see you again. Let me know about this date and I'll arrange something." To Matt, Pedro just seemed nice and friendly. He had no idea he was part of Pedro's games.

"Thanks man, good to see you! Look forward to it!" Matt waved and stepped out the apartment.

"You're a fucking asshole!" I spat in Pedro's direction, watching him smirk at me. "There's absolutely no need for you to behave like that."

"Have the best time, baby. I'm sure you fucking will!" He spat sarcastically as I slammed the door behind me. I was so fucking angry with him.