Semi-Edited

Song above is...Kiss Me Again by We Are The In Crowd. (This song is perfect for this chapter!)

Happy Reading!! :)

The rest of the day I was in the best mood. After Alex had left I took off my current sweatshirt and put the one he gave me on. I was a little bummed it didn't smell like him since I washed it but I still put it on. Every time looked down and saw the red the grin would once again take over my face.

I spent the rest of the afternoon catching up on some homework. Ever since I started hanging out with Alex and everyone I don't spend my weekends doing homework to kill time. I was still a bit ahead but less than I was a few weeks ago. I couldn't bring myself to care though.

Currently I was in the middle of making spaghetti for dinner while my phone buzzed on counter every two seconds. I was in a group chat with everyone and it was being blown up by Derek and Noah who were arguing about whether World War Z could actually happen.

Just like me the rest of us were just letting them argue through text. I did almost attempt to text my opinion but after Alex did it and got practically yelled at I decided against it. And instead I sat back and just listened...well read them argue. At least it was entertaining.

I was about to plate my food when my phone dinged. Thinking it was Noah and Derek still I left it until I settled on the couch and had a huge bite in my mouth. Opening my phone I read through the text before the words actually clued in. And when it did I choked on my food.

Coughing I stared down at my phone, re-reading the words over and over. The text I thought was from our group chat was actually from Alex.

A: I'm picking you up tomorrow at 10:30. Dress comfortably.

That was all it said. Was that his way of saying he's taking me out on a date? If so then that means he's taking me on a date. A date! Suddenly freaking out at the thought I quickly started a new group chat with Liv and Lexi.

Me: I think Alex just told me he's taking me on a date tomorrow....

I hit sent and not even a full minute later my phone was buzzing.

Liv: Alex did what? How did he ask you? Did he tell you what you guys are doing? Was he sweet about it? Tell me everything.

Liv rattled off one text after another. I laughed under my breath at her enthusiasm.

Me: He texted me to be ready by 10:30 and to dress comfortably. I don't know what that means.

Nervous at the thought of going on a date with Alex I stuffed mouthfuls of spaghetti in my mouth. I tended to be a nervous eater sometimes.

Liv: He asked you out through a text....seriously?

I could practically see the look of disapproval through the phone.

Lexi: Getting asked out through a text isn't horrible. Lexi finally chimed in.

Liv: Definitely could have done it in person though.

Me: He kinda already did a week ago....

Liv: All I can say is he better pull out all the stops on this date.

Lexi: Back to the topic at hand...

Liv: Right! Are you excited Riley?

I leaned my head back on the couch and sighed. I was excited, beyond excited actually, but it's been a little while since I went on a date. The first couple of times Mitch took me out I was a wreck. I rambled a lot, I laughed at lot at the stupidest things, I didn't know what to do with my hands.

At the time I thought Mitch found it amusing but looking back it all annoyed him which is why after a few dates he stopped taking me out as the two of us. His friends would end up tagging along, or we'd go to parties to 'hang out'. So I wouldn't really say I had a good reputation with dates.

Me: Yeah...I'm just nervous. I finally wrote.

Liv: Don't be. You will have a great time. Lexi and I can come over tomorrow morning to help you get ready!

I smiled at the offer. I've never had someone offer to do something like that for me. Especially when Sunday is the last day to sleep in before the school week.

Olivia and Lexi had no clue how much their friendship really meant to me. To finally have people who actually cared about me, who wanted to be around me. After Mitch I didn't think it would be possible to have friends again, let alone have a guy be interested in me.

Meeting Alex and his friends has been one of the best things to ever happen to me.

* * * * * * * * * * *

The next morning I was up at 8 in the morning. I didn't get that much sleep, nervous and yet excited for today. I had no clue what Alex had planned but I trusted him. I knew he wouldn't do anything to hurt me.

Since I was up pretty early I took my time in getting ready. I made coffee to calm my nerves before getting in the shower. I probably took one of the longest showers. Making sure my hair was clean, my body clean and shaved, and my skin exfoliated. It was most likely overkill but I wanted to look nice for Alex, despite him already having seen me in sweats and no makeup.

I was just putting my PJ's back on, since I didn't need to get dressed quite yet, when I heard a loud knock on my front door. Is Alex early? It's not even 10 o'clock!

The knocking continued in loud bursts as the person banged on the door repeatedly. Coming downstairs I opened the door only to be met with a hit to the forehead.

"Ow." I had opened the door at just the right moment the person was knocking and instead of hitting the door they hit my face.

"I'm so sorry!" Liv squeaked.

"Wow." Lexi chuckled as I rubbed my forehead that mostly likely had a red mark now.

"What are you two doing here?" I questioned. Both of them looked like they got up not too long ago and threw something on. Neither had makeup on and their hair up. They both honestly looked so gorgeous without even trying.

"What does it look like we are doing? We are helping you get ready for your date." Liv blew past me into the house, her arms full of what I think was makeup bags. I looked at Lexi.

"I'm just here to make sure you don't look like some overdressed barbie." Lexi shrugged. I grinned and stepped aside. Lexi wasn't going to admit it out loud but she cared enough to show up.

"It is exactly 9 o'clock which means you have over an hour to get ready." Liv said as we followed her into my bedroom. "It's not a lot of time but we can make do." I watched with raised eyebrows as she rubbed her chin like she was deep in thought.

"Lexi," She barked. "Pick out an outfit for Riley. Make her look good, not like she's going to a funeral." Lexi let out a huff but did as Liv asked, going over to my closet to find something.

"Riley," Liv pointed to the chair in front of my little desk. "Sit so I can start on your makeup." I silently took a seat as Liv kept talking to herself.

"By dress comfortably that probably means you aren't doing anything fancy. So i'll keep it light and natural." She rambled as she took out makeup from her bag.

"You guys didn't need to come."

"Like we were going to let you get ready for your first date with Alex alone." Liv scoffed.

"Who else is going to threaten Alex to not be a dick." Lexi shouted from my closet.

"But Alex isn't a dick." I defended him.

"Not around you. The guy is wrapped around your finger." Lexi poked her head out. "It's actually kinda pathetic."

"It isn't pathetic." Liv gasped. "It's cute. And don't even start Ms. I have Nico at my beck and call." I grinned at Liv's comeback. Lexi had no room to talk about Alex being 'whipped'. Nico was worse when it came to Lexi.

When Lexi went back to my closet Liv turned her attention to me.

"But she is right about one thing. Alex has been a lot nicer since we met you."

"Was he really that bad?" I asked softly. I didn't really blame Alex for being rude. After everything he's been through he had every right to act out.

"Yeah but you make him better. I haven't seen him this happy in a long time. He may act fine, especially when Harper is around, but he isn't." My heart tugged in my chest at her words. Hearing that Alex put on a facade that he was fine hurt.

"He's healing though. Little by little he is and all thanks to you. Just be there for him and love him. That's all he needs."

I turned back to the mirror as Liv got to work on my makeup.

I had no plans on hurting Alex. Ever.

* * * * * * * * * *

35 minutes later I was ready for my date with Alex. Like Liv said she kept my makeup light and minimal, just enough to make me look less tired than I was. And thanks to Lexi I actually looked cute. I thought she would pick out something too far out there for me but she followed Liv's lead.

She picked out a cute pair of blue jeans with rips in the knees. She paired it with a pretty pale pink sweatshirt that was slightly cropped. Perfect for the cooler weather. 

All in all I looked cute and comfortable, just like Alex said. While Liv did my hair and makeup and Lexi sat on my bed, I tried to get them to say what Alex had planned but neither budged. I knew they knew but neither would answer.

"Please just one hint." I pleaded one last time.

"Riley if you do not shut up I will punch you. Don't think I won't." Lexi threatened from my bed. "And stop pacing it's driving me nuts."

"Sorry." I stopped my pacing but seconds later I began tapping my arm. I was nervous. I'm not sure why. Alex and I have been alone together before but this was a date. We both knew it was one which kind of added pressure to the whole thing.

"Riley stop stressing, it's going to be fine. You two are going to go on a fun date, make out, become boyfriend and girlfriend, and then live happily ever after." Olivia gushed. I wasn't sure about the happily ever after part. That was far away, like far into the future.

"It's just...this feels like a real date." I spoke softly.

"What do you mean by 'real date'?" Liv asked.

"With Mitch we went out once to a restaurant and after that it was either going to a party, or having his friends along. It never really felt like a date." I rubbed my arm. "He never put much thought into it."

"He really is a dick. Can I punch him? Lexi grumbled. I laughed under my breath. After learning about Lexi's past I knew she didn't like guys who were dicks and thought they were better than everyone. Not that I blamed her either. We both had horrible 'ex's', her's more than mine that's for sure.

"Trust me Riley, this will be nothing like with Mitch." Liv touched my arm.

"I know. Alex isn't Mitch. I just don't want to ruin the day or anything."

"Just be yourself."

"If it's beyond horrible send us an SOS text and we'll come rescue you." Lexi added.

"Yes! Our code word is...Queens."

"Queens?"

"Because we are queens." Liv made a crown on her head. I laughed but nodded.

"I like it."

"Works for me." Lexi waved her hand in the air.

Before I could say more about our 'safe word' the doorbell rang, echoing around the house. I froze and looked at Lexi and Liv with wide eyes.

"He's here."

"You'll be fine. Be yourself and have fun." Liv said as she firmly ushered me out the door.

With the help of Lexi I was practically shoved down the stairs and to the door. With a wide smile and a nod at me Liv motioned for me to open the door. Taking a deep breath to calm myself down I opened the door.

Standing there almost nervously was Alex and in his hands was a bouquet of flowers.

"Hey." He greeted. "These are for you." He practically shoved them in my face. I had a feeling he was just as nervous as I was. That thought alone made me calm down a little bit.

"Thank you, they are beautiful." I gently took the gorgeous bright orange lilies from him. They were by far the prettiest flowers I've ever seen and the gesture made butterflies erupt in my stomach.

"You look different. But not in a bad way, in a good way. Like a good different. I mean you look amazing as usual." Alex rambled, reaching and rubbing the back of his neck. The fact that he was rambling and seemed flustered made me grin.

"You look nice as well." I smiled and he did look nice. He wore a pair of black skinny jeans with a rip at the knee, a black t-shirt, paired with a nice tan coat. The whole outfit just screamed 'mature, sexy'. I almost wanted to pinch myself to make sure it was really me going out with Alex. 

(I'm sorry but if I had a bf and he dressed like this....oh mamma)

"I'll take those." Olivia suddenly swooped in. "I'll go put these in some water while you two get going." She gently took the flowers from my hand and replacing it with my purse.

"But-"

"We'll lock up after ourselves. You go and have fun on your date." The last part she sent me a look that told me to get out. With one hand Liv basically shoved me out of my own house, Lexi standing behind her with a smirk on her face as she waved. The door shut in my face and I turned to face Alex.

"Uh ready to go?" I asked.

"Yeah." With a hesitant smile he reached out for my hand. I gladly placed mine in his. His rough hand engulfing mine and squeezing gently. As he lead my to his car I found it comical that the two of us were so nervous. Like we didn't spend a couple hours cuddled up on my couch yesterday.

Even though I was nervous the moment I got in his car and his cologne lingered in the air I felt myself relax. The creepy part of myself wanted to know what cologne he used so I could get some. It smelt amazing. But I refrained from asking like a weirdo.

"So what are you doing today?" I asked once Alex started driving down the street.

"That is a surprise." He winked over at me. Normally I would demand to know what it was but the look on his face made me refrain and let him have his moment.

"Can I at least know if we are going far?"

"It's not too far, maybe an hour." Knowing we will be in the car for awhile I settled in.

"By the way Harper said to say hi." I grinned at the mention of his little sister. She was the cutest, sweetest little girl I've ever met.

"She is so adorable."

"You say that now but next week when you help me babysit you'll change your tune."

"Oh I'm babysitting next week?" I raised an eyebrow at him.

"Yep, you volunteered yourself." He flashed me a grin before looking back at the road.

"What if I had plans?" I questioned.

"Then you'll break three little girls hearts."

"Are you blackmailing me?" I narrowed my eyes. He shrugged but I saw his lips twitching.

"If that it the case then I'll let you tell the three girls you don't want to hang out with them when they specifically asked for you to come over." My eyes narrowed even more. He knew I wouldn't be able to say no Harper, Layla and Rina. The moment those three girls looked up you were a goner.

"You sly devil." Alex laughed.

"Harper basically demanded that you come over soon so I thought you could come over after school sometime this week." I smiled at the way he asked me to come over.

"I'll see what I can do." I winked but we both knew I would be there. We lulled into silence before I found myself asking something.

"What made you decide to ask me out on a date today?" I wasn't sure what made me ask but I was curious. He's had a bit to ask me and he choose today?

"I wanted..." I watched as Alex licked his lips as he gathered his thoughts. "I wanted to do something big and special for you because you deserve it, so I was waiting for the perfect moment. But after yesterday...I couldn't wait any longer." With each word I felt like my heart was gonna explode.

"Then Olivia messaged me and threatened me to ask you out or she'd make sure I couldn't have kids in the future." I didn't miss the wince on his face as he spoke. Sounds like Liv.

"So I'm sorry if it wasn't that grand of a gesture." He looked upset at that.

"It was perfect." I smiled, reaching over to touch his hand on that was on the gear shift. I could have sworn I saw his cheeks turn pink. My heart fluttered even more when he turned his hand over and laced ours together.

It may not have been some grand gesture of asking me out on a date but all I needed was Alex, didn't matter how he asked. I never needed something huge like that, maybe some girls did, but I was perfectly fine just being asked. Plus he brought me flowers. More than I can say about Mitch. On our 'first date' he just showed up and impatiently tugged me along to the car.

"If you want there are CD's in the glove compartment." I perked up. Seeing what kind of music someone listened to told a lot about their personalities. Reluctantly letting go of his hand I leaned forward and opened his glove compartment.

I was met with at least 6 cd's. Riffling through I saw Eminem, good choice. There was also Train, a Now 16 which had 20 artists on it, All Time Low (which was surprising), Lifehouse and finally the one that surprised me the most.

"Descendants 2." I cocked an eyebrow at him as I brought it out.

"That's Harpers."

"Uh huh." I grinned. "So if I put this in you wouldn't know the words?" I teased. I had no room to talk though because as lame as it sounded I've watched all three movies...multiple times. What? I like disney movies. I blame High School Musical for starting it.

"Nope." Alex shrugged like he could care less. With wide grin I popped the CD into the stereo. When the first song started I had to hold myself back from singing along. Not until Alex sung first.

I wasn't even subtle about staring at Alex. I was waiting for him to crack first as the song continued. The opening number, Ways to be Wicked, was so catchy I felt my foot tapping to the beat.

Alex sat there calming driving not seeming affected. I narrowed my eyes at him and waited. Somehow I managed not to sing the first song but it was difficult. The little side smirk Alex sent me let me know he knew what I was doing. Jerk.

With a huff I turned away and crossed my arms. I wasn't going to break first. But as soon as I thought that I stilled. The beat of the second song came through the speakers and I gritted my teeth. I couldn't do it. I couldn't hold out any longer.

As soon as "What's My Name" started I was a goner. Every song on this second movie were incredible so technically it wasn't my fault I cracked first.

I sung under my breath to the words, my shoulders moving slightly. From the corner of my eye I watched Alex glance at me with a raised eyebrow and a look that said 'now who knows the words', but I ignored him.

As the song continued I found myself singing louder. By time the chorus came back around I lost my embarrassment and sang loudly. I probably sounded horrible but I found I didn't care. I knew I looked crazy singing along to a little kids movie soundtrack.

When the song ended I was slightly winded but grinning.

"You know the words." Alex teased.

"You never asked if I did or not." I shrugged. He shook his head but he had a smile on his face. "Come on join in. I promise I won't laugh if you sound horrible."

"I don't sing."

"You have to sing to this one though." I reached out and gently tugged on the arm that he wasn't using to drive.

"Let me tell you something you can really trust." I sang.

"Everybody's got a wicked side."

"I know you think that you can never be like us

Watch and learn so you can get it right."

Getting into the song I tried to wiggle my eyebrows which only made Alex chuckle.

"You need to drag your feet

You need to nod your head

You need to lean back."

With each word I mimicked the dance as best I could in the car. The last shred of embarrassment was gone as I continued. Alex glanced from me to the road a smile on his face.

"You need a whole lot of help."

"You need to not be yourself." Alex suddenly said the next line. My eyes widened along with my smile.

"You do know the words! I knew it! I mad you break."

"Sounded like you needed help." I gaped at him as he focused his attention back to the road.

"Did you just imply that my singing sucks?"

"I mean..."

"Alex!" I slapped his arm.

"Hey don't slap the driver!"

"You called my singing horrible."

"Not in a bad way. You don't have the worst voice but it isn't that good either." Towards the end he spoke softer.

"Wow." I slumped back in my seat. "And the date started off good." I crossed my arms and purposely looked out the window.

"Freckles no I didn't mean it that way!" Alex quickly noticed. He reached out and touched my arm. "Your voice is spectacular, the best voice I've ever heard." It was a struggle to keep my face straight. "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean it."

As much as I wanted Alex to keep going I decided to put him out of his misery. He actually thought I was being serious.. Damn maybe I should be an actress.

"Good! Now shush one of the saddest songs is about to start."

Alex looked between the road and me several times, clearly thrown. Shooting him a grin I leaned forward and turned up the stereo but not before hearing Alex mutter.

"What just happened."

For the next little bit we listened to the last few songs on the Descendants album. I even managed to get Alex to 'sing' along to a few and by sing I mean he muttered a few words but I still counted it.

I could imagine Alex and Harper driving with this playing, Harper screaming the lyrics while Alex sang along. Alex wouldn't admit it but I knew he liked the music and was secretly hiding his inner disney fan.

But as soon as the last song was over I changed it out for the Lifehouse cd putting Alex out of his misery. Seeing that we were still a bit away from wherever we were going I leaned back content. I felt Alex's hand nudging mine as if asking permission to grab it. As soon as I laced our fingers together I let out a sigh. Now it was perfect.

A good 35 minutes passed before Alex finally turned off the freeway. Looking out the window I was confused at where we were. There didn't seem to be much around us. It actually just looked like fields upon fields.

"Are you secretly lost? It's okay if you are." I wasn't sure there was anything to do out this far. Maybe Alex was finally going to kill me. He was getting me all buttered up earlier.

"You have such little faith in me."

"You could be horrible at navigation for all I know." I shrugged. "Just don't get us lost, and then our car breaks down, and then we have to walk until it gets dark, and then we come across an old house where a crazy person lives who lures us inside and kills us." I rattled off.

Alex was silent making me look over at him. He looked at me with a raised eyebrow. I flushed under his gaze.

"What? I read a lot of books okay."

"Just so you know if that ever were to happen..." He paused as he made a turn. Aw is this the part where he tells me he will protect me if that ever happened? "I'd turn and run the other direction."

"You'd leave me there!"

"If you couldn't keep up then yes."

"Wow I don't ever want to get lost with you traitor."

"What? It's one man for himself. I'm not becoming someone's meal or fertilizer for their plants."

"But you'd let me!"

"Don't worry we'll work on your running." He smirked over at me.

"Thanks." I said dryly. He just grinned. Such a prince charming.

"We are here." Alex announced a moment later. Confused I peered out the front windshield as Alex pulled to a stop in front of a barn. There were two other cars parked but no one in sight. We were surrounded by a huge green field but I couldn't tell what kind of field from the car.

"And where is here exactly?" I questioned. Alex turned to face me as best he could in his seat. The grin on his face made me even more curious.

"We are going to spend the morning...." He paused for dramatic affect. "picking fruit. Anything from strawberries, peaches, apples." I could see he was somewhat nervous about the whole thing. Like he was afraid I wouldn't like what he had planned.

Put aside everything else it was the fact that he planned this for our first date. This way by far the sweetest date anyone could plan. Better than going to a the movies where you can't even talk to the person, or just out to eat. This was thoughtful and actually really romantic. Alex wouldn't know that him planning this was the most thoughtful thing anyone has ever done for me.

"This is perfect." I beamed. "I love it."

"Yeah?" I could practically see the relief on his face as his shoulders relaxed.

"I've never been fruit picking before."

"You'll love it." With one last blinding smile Alex got out of the car. I quickly followed suit, leaving my purse but taking my phone. As soon as I got out of the car I took a deep breath and sighed contently. Where we were was so remote the air smelt and felt cleaner and fresher.

The two of us made our way towards the open doors of the barn. As soon as we got close a woman suddenly appeared.

"Well hello! Are you two here to pick some fruit?"

"We are." Alex greeted the lady. The tips of his fingers reached out to mine as he talked. 

(I know, I know another hand holding gif. But like...can you blame me?)

"You two came at a great time. It's the end of the harvest so most of the fruit is at its ripest. So take as much as you want." She smiled kindly at us both. "When you are done just come back here. Feel free to take a basket or the larger push carts. Just remember to follow the signs so you don't get lost."

With another smile and telling us to have fun the lady disappeared back into the barn. Excited to get started I eagerly tugged Alex towards the carts.

"How did you find out about this place?" I asked a few minutes later as we walked along the trail, a basket in our opposite hands as our other were still clasped together. Alex was quiet for a moment before he answered.

"My mom loved strawberries and when I mean love I mean she would eat cartons of them by the day. When she was pregnant with Harper I remember sitting beside her as she ate three cartons of them in one sitting, the huge cartons too." A small smile played on his lips as he talked.

"Well one day my dad picked me up from school and instead of taking me home like always he started driving. Anyways, we drove and ended up here. My dad drove two hours out of his way to come here and get my mom fresh strawberries. We picked almost an entire basket full of strawberries, I don't think I've ever seen so many."

I stayed quiet as he kept telling the story, my eyes never leaving his face. I could see the way his eyes lit up when he talked about his parents.

"You should have seen the look on my mom's face when we got home practically dragging the bag with how full it was. I'm pretty sure my mom fell more in love with my dad that day. For the next five months my dad would make a trip up here every few weeks to get strawberries until the season was over."

That was probably the sweetest story I've ever heard. I could feel the love his parents had for each other despite never having met them. His dad loved his mom so much he would drive two hours out of his way to get her strawberries because he knew she loved them.

That type of love was something everyone wanted. To have someone love them that much to go to such great lengths to make them happy. And not because he was told but because he wanted to.

"Your dad sounds like a great man." I finally got the words out.

"He was." I caught the sad tone in his voice. I squeezed his hand tightly hoping to convey how sorry I was.

"You're parents seemed really in love." I kept my gaze ahead as I spoke. "My parents care more about their work than anything else."

"I bet that's not true." Alex tried to say but I shrugged.

"I use to think they loved each other. When I was younger I would catch them dancing in the kitchen or when my dad would come home from work he'd bring flowers. But over time...I think they fell out of love. They still love each other but not like that anymore. I'm pretty sure the only thing they have in common is their work and Trent and I."

"How long have they been gone?" Alex asked gently.

"It's been awhile." I shrugged wanting to come off that I didn't mind but we both knew I did. I felt Alex squeeze my hand just like I did moments before. I understand the silent sorry and squeezed it right back.

Wanting to change the somber subject I decided there was still much about Alex I didn't know.

"You know there's still come things I don't know about you."

"What would you like to know?"

"How about we swap asking questions about each other. That way we learn more." I suggested.

"Fire away." He grinned.

"When is your birthday?" I asked an easy one first.

"December 12th." I made a mental note to add that to my calendar. "What is yours?"

"March 20th. Favorite holiday?"

"Definitely Christmas." I smiled at how quickly he answered. "What made you get into art? Alex asked a slightly harder question.

"Not really sure. I've always liked to draw." I shrugged. "My parents always wanted Trent and I to follow in their footsteps and do something in the medical field. I've never been interested in it and as soon as I stepped foot into the art classroom freshman year I fell in love." I explained.

"Is it something you want to go to school for?" He seemed genuinely curious as he asked me. I honestly had no clue and for the first time I found myself saying the words out loud.

"I don't know what I want to do after graduation." I admitted. I've never said it out loud to anyone before. The fact that I didn't know what to do with my life was severely embarrassing. I knew a lot of kids at school knew what they wanted to do, hell Liv was already taking college classes for nursing.

"You know it's okay to not have a plan, right?" Alex gently tugged on my hand.

"I know I just...I always thought I'd know what I wanted to do. When I was younger I had it all planned out but now that the time is coming I just don't know." Not wanting to keep the subject on me I quickly switched it to him.

"How about you? Do you want to be a mechanic?" I thought back to Alex working at the mechanic shop and him fixing my car.

"Um...." Alex hesitated for a moment. "I'm good at it and I don't mind it but not really sure that's my career path." He said the last part softly and almost a bit angrily.

"What do you mean?" I gently asked. He didn't have to explain anything to me but if I could help in any way I would.

"There's just..." Alex seemed to struggle for the right wording. I could tell it was something he didn't necessarily want to talk about or at least talk about right now. I pushed aside the slight hurt that he didn't feel comfortable telling me but I wasn't going to push him to say something he wasn't ready to yet. It wasn't my place.

"No need to explain." I squeezed his hand. I shot him a quick smile. It just made me more curious to what he was hiding and for some reason I had an inkling feeling it was big.

Not wanting to get caught up on whatever it was I set it aside, not wanting to ruin the rest of our date. I can think about it at another time but for now I was going to enjoy a carefree date.

Up ahead I noticed the trees were suddenly thicker and I could see bright orange and pink fruit hanging off the branches. Peaches! Letting go of Alex's hand I practically ran towards the first tree I could find, my attention going elsewhere than the topic we just brushed past.

Reaching up I plucked one from the tree and grinned. There was something about picking fruit yourself that was fun.

"Think we can eat one?" I questioned, eyeing the rip peach in my hand.

"I won't tell." Alex came up behind me. I didn't need anymore permission before taking a huge bite. I couldn't stop the moan that escaped my mouth as I ate the peach. From the corner of my eye I saw Alex staring at me, clenching his jaw. Blushing at how I was acting I slowed down.

"Want one?" I spoke with a mouthful. When he took a step towards me I froze. His gaze was intense and his eyes never once looked away from mine as he stopped inches from me. The tips of our shoes touched and immediately his cologne hit my nose.

I had no clue what he was doing as he stared right at me, bending his head down a little. I swore everything in my body stopped working as Alex leaned forward towards the peach in my hand that was frozen halfway to my mouth.

Those ocean blue eyes stayed locked on mine as he took a bite. I flushed as I stood there completely still as he chewed, the muscles in his cheek and jaw working. I don't know why or even how but watching his chew was somehow hot. Insanely hot. And add on the fact that he hasn't look away from me had me feeling some sort of way.

"Mmm good." I was surprised I didn't pass out at the half moan sound he made. Riley get your shit together! I silently yelled at myself.

"Y-yeah." I stammered. When he sent me a wink I knew he did that on purpose. I wasn't sure if it was to get my mind off of the previous question I just asked or just do distract me in general....but it sure as hell worked.

Clearly smug at my reaction Alex plucked the peach from my hand, took another bite and walked towards another tree. Leaving me standing there staring at him. Once he was a little bit away from me my head seemed to clear. Seeing him acting so casually like what just happened didn't affect made my eyes narrow. If he was going to try and get a reaction out of me two can play at that game.

Getting myself under control I made my way over to him to start picking some peaches. Karma can be a bitch. I did a good job of ignoring him as I picked a few peaches and placed them in my basket. I was going to find just the right moment to get my payback on Alex.

After having quite a few peaches in my basket I headed back to the path to continue. As I passed by Alex I purposely trailed my hand across his shoulders and down the side of one arm.

"Come on slow poke, there's more to see." Smirking I kept on walking knowing he would follow soon after. Hearing his footsteps behind me I felt myself walk with a little more sway. My confidence grew in knowing I held some sort of power over Alex.

A quick peek over my shoulder I saw his eyes were trained to my butt before they were quickly adverted. I turned back around before he saw me, my confidence growing a bit more.

With Mitch I always felt like I was less than him. That I didn't deserve to be near him, let alone with him. I just felt...insignificant most of the time. Never once did I feel confident in any sort of way.

And now here I was feeling confident around Alex. I don't know why either. Was it the way his eyes seemed to linger? Because I wasn't afraid to let myself be me more around him? I wasn't sure but the little bit of confidence I was feeling made me feel good.

I was so engrossed in my thoughts I hadn't realized Alex had caught up to me until he nudged my arm.

"Are we finishing your 21 questions?"

My little revenge plan was cast aside for now since I still wanted to learn more facts about him. So with a grin I nodded.

"You ask first."

"Since we are at a fruit farm...what is your favorite fruit?" Alex asked.

"I do love peaches but watermelon is my favorite by far." I answered. "I use to be able to sit down to half a watermelon and eat the entire thing. Trent use to complain that I ate it all so after a while I was banned from eating it." I laughed at the memory. "What's yours?"

"Strawberries." Came his immediate answer. I saw the ghost of a smile on his face and felt my heart clench. I think strawberries would be his favorite no matter what.

"Have you ever broken a bone?" I quickly asked, changing the topic so his mood wouldn't drop. He didn't question the quick change.

"Surprisingly not really. I have broken my nose and three fingers but that's it." I felt my eyebrows raise in surprise.

"Seriously? Even with fighting?" I would have thought he broke something more sever with his whole fighting thing.

"Thankfully no. A few cracked ribs but that's about it."

"Hm interesting." Surprising fact I didn't know.

"How about you? Since I've known you you've managed to hurt yourself quite a bit." He teased.

"It hasn't been that many times." The look he sent me made me roll my eyes. "Fine okay it was a few times. And to answer your question, yes I have broken a bone." Alex waited for me to elaborate. I hesitated knowing he was going to get a kick out of this one.

"I broke my arm." I sighed. "That little bone," I bent my right elbow and showed him the very tip of it. "pop it right off."

"How?"

"Trent had some friends over and were out back kicking a soccer ball around. I was 12 and I had a little crush on one of his friends." I cringed as I spoke, not believing I was telling Alex this story.

"He had just turned 16 and I thought he was pretty amazing. I was always super nice to me and let me join in whenever they were doing something." I thought back to Trent's friend Justin.

He was always the sweetest guy and the funniest. No matter what he always had everyone laughing and was clearly the life of the party in the group. Even though I was younger by 4 year he never made me feel like a little kid. He always let me play video games with him and my brother and he even once took me to get ice cream when Trent was busy.

Justin was literally the most perfect guy in my 12 year old eyes. I may have been younger but in my head I was going to date him one day. Even if he was my brothers best friend maybe one day it would happen.

"Anyways, for some dumb ass reason I thought that day was the day I would get him to see me." I shook my head. Next to me Alex was quiet as he listened. "So I went upstairs got dressed in what I thought at the time was 'sexy', it was so not sexy. I went to my mom's room and grabbed a pair of her heels.

"Keep in mind I am 12 and my feet were too small for my mom's heels. I went downstairs ready to go out and see Justin. To show off that I wasn't just some young girl. Well...."

"You fell didn't you."

"Yep." I nodded. "As soon as I opened the back door and took one step down the one little step I went flying. Out of all the steps I did down the stairs it was the one in the backyard. I flew forward and landed directly on my arm and broke it. All the while my brother's friends are standing there watching as well as Justin." My cheeks flushed at the horrible memory. It was still humiliating to this day.

"Did he pick you up and carry you to the hospital like a knight in shining armor?" Alex said dramatically, lifting his hand up to his head.

"Ha Ha." I shoved him. "But for your information he did. Justin was sweet enough to carry me to the car and even went to the hospital with me and my brother."

Like the good guy that Justin was he did help me to the car while my brother frantically grabbed the keys. Justin sat in the back and calmed me down as Trent drove like a maniac to the hospital.

While the whole thing was embarrassing it was pretty great being doted on by my crush. Trent was more freaked out than any of us. A few hours later I made it out of the hospital with a cast and a broken arm.

However my crush on Justin sadly came to an end when a few weeks later he came over with a girlfriend his own age and probably one of the most gorgeous girls I had ever seen. What made matters worse was she was super nice to me. I hated that at first but she grew on me not too long after. Eventually my crush fizzled out.

"What happened to him?"

"I think he's at college in Florida or something." I shrugged. I hadn't seen Justin since his and Trent's graduation a few years ago. He gave me a hug and made me promise not to trip on anything much to my embarrassment. He still remembered it but after that he left.

"Still harboring any feelings towards this older man that I should know about?" Alex raised his eyebrow at me as he asked. While he tried to come off as teasing I caught the underlying tone.

"Maybe. If he comes home for Christmas break I'll have to see. I heard he's single." I acted nonchalant but from the corner of my eye I kept watch of his face.

"Oh is that right?"

"I've always had a thing for older men." I shrugged. I was fighting to keep the grin off my face. "But yeah for sure I'll let you know by Christmas break."

"You do realize I am older than you." He pointed out. I looked over at him and made a show of looking him up and down.

"You're not as...distinguished as I like 'em."

"Distinguished?" Now was my time for revenge for his earlier move. Taking advantage of him now stopped I took a step towards him. Placing one hand on his chest I leaned in a bit.

"Yeah, you're far uglier." Before it could sink in I pushed his chest and took off running. Behind me I heard he yell my name and come after me.

Laughing loudly I ran down the pathway, the cooler air nipping at my face.

"You're gonna pay for that!" Alex yelled from behind me. He didn't sound too far away making me pick up my pace a little.

"Not my fault you aren't attractive enough!" I yelled over my shoulder. Laughing at my own words I stumbled just slightly but it was enough for Alex to reach me.

My basket dropped from my hands as much larger ones wrapped around my middle, twirling me around. Giggling loudly I closed my eyes as Alex twirled me in the arm; his own basket laying on the ground by mine.

He finally set my feet back on the ground and using his grip on my waist turned me to face him. Breathless I gazed up at him, my face flushed from both the run, the cooler air and being this close to him.

Alex stared down at me with those intense blue eyes, setting my skin alight. I could see amusement in those eyes. Bringing my arms up I wrapped them around his neck, pulling myself just that much closer.

"Don't worry." I breathed. "I can grow to like your less than distinguished looks." I grinned widely.

"Is that so?" His voice was soft. I nodded. "Good."

We both moved at the same time. Me tilting my head back and him bringing his down. Our lips met at the same moment and as soon as they touched I sighed in content. I wanted to do that the moment I saw him on my front porch. 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

When I say my heart was bursting writing this chapter I wasn't kidding. These two are just so cute and perfect and kenhaigniae. I need an Alex in my life right now. 

I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter. It is literally almost 10k words so....
Thank you guys so much for the love and support! You really are the best readers in the entire world!! 

<3 <3 <3

-Ken