weatbumpershoot

 

"Hayley, hurry up. It's cold. I don't w.ant you catching a cold."

I scowled glaring at my mother through the annoying bangs that fluttered in my eyes as I slowly followed her up the sidewalk, purposely walking at snails pace. I would give anything to not be here. I just wanted to be alone. Didn't anyone get that?

"Mom, I'm fine. We're like, what? Two feet from the house? Please, I think I'll be fine if I step inside 30 seconds after you."

On the drop of a dime, she stopped and spun around to give me one of those looks; that look seemed to be the only look I ever got these days.

"Hayley, would it kill you to not be sarcastic for once in your life? I love you dearly, but I'm getting on my last nerve with you."

"So you want me to pretend to be something I'm not? Wow, and I thought after all these years you were teaching me to be myself and not try to be somebody. Maybe that's the reason why-"

"Hayley!"

I immediately shut up hearing her tone and felt a tug on the bottom of my coat.

"Haywee."

I shut my eyes knowing instantly who it was. Why? Why me? Why do you hate me so? I carefully opened my eyes and forced a smile for the sake of my little sister.

"Everything's ok Mac," I said softly, leaning over slightly to brush her windblown hair out of her face. "Just..." I sighed and glanced over at my mom who was waiting with an impatient look plastered on her face. "Mom's waiting. You want to go have fun at the party, right?" I laughed quietly upon seeing a large smile take place on her face as her eyes lit up and she nodded happily making her hat dip more into her face. I gently pushed it up so I could see her eyes. "I bet you Mrs. Farro made her famous cookies!"

All it took was one word for the girl to squeal in delight and bound up the steps nearly knocking over my mother to knock on the door.

I let out a laugh and shook my head watching her. She was such a doll. But the second I looked up, I was met with those very eyes I wanted to hide from.

The door opened with a loud squeak and a faint chatter reached my ears following Mrs. Farro's booming cheery voice as she greeted us.

In the meantime, I stared mindlessly at the stone sidewalk beneath my sneaker, willing something to happen to get me out of this. Anything. At this point, I was desperate.

"Hayley, are you coming?"

"Just gimme a second."

"Sure. They guys are in the basement. Just let yourself in," Mrs Farro said happily and I watched as she followed McKayla who trotted excitedly inside the house.

"You better not try to sneak off. We're here as a family and you're my daughter. You need to stop acting like some dramatic teenager and go have fun with your friends. I mean, Hayley, why don't you go talk to Josh? Look at that! Josh is here! I'm sure you two can-"

"I don't want to fucking talk to Josh! Why does everybody always mention Josh? You like him so much, then why don't you make him your son. I'm sure he'll be a breeze compared to me since I'm just a fuck up. " I roared.

The silence that overcame us was unbareble. I didn't know whether or not she was going to yell at me or going to cry.

"Ok then," she said quietly. She straightened out her coat and cleared her throat. "You just....." our eyes met and for once second I felt sorry for her. Her eyes were crystal clear and bright, glistening with what could've been tears if she lost control. She let out a weary sigh. "Do whatever you want, Hayley. I just don't care anymore."

Without another word, she headed right inside leaving me alone in the harsh whipping winds.

***

I practically forced myself to walk up to the door and walk inside. The second the door was opened I felt a wave of warm air crash into my face beginning to bring my sense of touch back. I carefully shut the door behind me and smiled politely at a few of Josh's relatives who greeted me silently across the room. I snuck through the mingling adults on my way towards the kitchen.

 

Maybe someone spiked the punch...Hayley, what the hell are you saying? First off, this isn't a stupid school dance. And since when did I have an urge to drink? Oh right...since Chris decided to pick a fight with me.

 

I frowned coming to a stop in front of the kitchen table and stared at the cups at least pretending to look as though I was being productive.

 

And that's when I heard it.

 

That laugh.

 

I rolled my eyes and quickly turned around to find exactly what I had expected.

 

There stood my mother and Josh acting all suspicious and secretive. It was so like them to do that.

 

Absentmindedly, I let out a scoff keeping my glare focused on the pair across the room. It wasn't as subtle as I thought because pretty soon I found a pair of chocolate brown eyes staring back into mine. His eyes were intense yet warm and I had a difficult time breaking the stare.

 

But once I did, I hastily picked up a cup and stormed my way out of the kitchen towards the basement.

 

The thought that I had to brush past Josh skipped my mind until I felt his arm hit mine. My eyes snapped up and met his briefly, he looked at me with a soft smile completely oblivious to my whole glaring thing. "Hey."

 

"Don't talk to me," I seethed, trying to keep quiet.

 

In a half a seconds time, I found myself . My breathing was labored and my eyes were full of anger anybody could tell that right off the bat. He tried to question me through his eyes but I shook my head and started for the archway.

 

"Hayley!"

 

I automatically flinched at the sound of his voice as it raised a whole lot and he roughly grabbed my arm. In the meanwhile, I noticed a hush fall over the room and could feel eyes boring holes through me as they watched with inward curiosity the scene unfolding before them.

 

"I'm not in the fucking mood, Farro," I growled, trying to keep my anger in check but it was clear I was doing a terrible job. "Let go of me. You really do not want to test me," I warned ripping my arm loose from his tight trip and stalking off into the house.

 

In doing so, I heard whispers swirl about me but those were the least of my worries.

 

I had no idea how I was going to make it through the rest of the night.

 

 

 

I spent the next hour avoiding my friends at all costs. I knew the moment I went downstairs I would be interrogated by Josh. It was nice that he cared but sometimes, he cared a little too much. He just didn't know when to give up and shut up. It was hard enough that both my mother and boyfriend were not on speaking terms with me...

 

I really hate people.

 

I sighed loudly and let my chin fall into my hands staring longingly at the plate of cookies sitting across the counter top.

 

"Hayley, dear, go ahead," Mrs. Farros' soothing voice snapped me back into reality and her hand lightly sat on my shoulder. "You look like you've had a rough day. Have a cookie. Have as many as you'd like."

 

I smiled graciously at her, "You don't know how much that means to me," I admitted, feeling stupid the second the words left my lips.

 

She laughed, noticing the look on my face as the realization dawned on me. "Cookies can be miracle workers, especially mine, if I say so myself," I let out a small laugh. "Oh, Hayley, it's music to my ears. I hate seeing you so upset. You're too young to be getting depressed. And it's Christmas," she wrapped her arms around me and hugged me quickly. "Can I ask you a favor?"

 

"If you want me to talk to Josh, I am not-" I cut myself short upon seeing her face and sighed. "I'm sorry."

 

"Don't be apologizing to me."

 

I waited a minute, expecting her to tell me to go find Josh. When she didn't, I frowned and furrowed my eye brows taking a cookie from the plate. "What were you going to ask me?"

 

Her eyes lit up and a soft smile crept onto her face, "Go have fun with your friends. I miss yelling at you guys for being obnoxious and stupid."

 

I snorted, standing up slowly. "Well, jeez, I don't even know how to.."

 

"Just go before I pick you up and carry you myself."

 

I laughed once more on my way down the hallway taking another bite of my cookie. The familiar basement door came into view quicker than I had hoped and I found myself growing nervous.

 

What is wrong with you? Since when do you get nervous about seeing your friends?

 

I shook my head clear of those thoughts and stared at the doorknob. All I had to do was reach out and grab it. That was it. But I just couldn't. I wasn't ready to face them...

It must've been nearly a half hour that had passed and I still hadn't progressed in anything. My feet were glued to the very spot and the door was still shut. I could hear laughter booming from the other side and even caught a hint of Zac's voice. I wanted to be there. I wanted to be myself again so badly.

 

"Are you gonna just stare at nothing all night?"

 

I jumped, startled by the voice and took a few stumbling steps backwards nearly crashing into the wall.

 

The voice alone scared the shit outta me, not mention WHO it belonged to. The one person I didn't want to run into.

 

"W-what are you doing here?" I stuttered, quietly, my voice cracking on the last syllable.

 

"Well, I live here so... really, I should be the one asking you-"

 

"That's not what I meant!" I snapped, getting frustrated. He had that stupid tone with me. I hated it.

 

"Hey, you asked. I'm just telling you," he shrugged stepping in front of me to complete the task I had so much difficulty in doing.

 

"How long were you standing there?" I asked.

 

"Long enough," he smiled over his shoulder at me, reaching out to ruffle my hair.

 

"Long enough," I mimicked rolling my eyes. I scowled at the back of his head following him down the stairs into the basement.

***

 

Just so you know, I have a difficult time finding the time to write something at all, let alone something I find halfway decent for an update. I know this is late but I don't have all that much time to just sit and write anymore. And then there are times when I do but I can't find the right words or ideas so I don't. I share my writing with you guys by choice because I love hearing feedback and being able to provide you all with a story. And as usual, I just couldn't finish this by the 15th. I still don't have it all done. Maybe I shouldn't have said I would post it the 15th but in all honesty, I don't appreciate getting attitude comments about breaking promises and what not. If you don't like how often I post or if I am so busy that it's hard to find time to write and that just isn't good enough for you, well that just sucks.

Yes, this isn't the whole thing but at least it's something. I do not know when the whole thing will be up but I'm trying to make it the best I can without making you wait too long...but obviously it's not making you happy. Hopefully, by the end of the year this will be done.

And Becky, I wasn't talking about you. Don't worry :)

It's just really rude to leave comments about being a liar and stuff and  I don't like it. If that keeps up, you'll be seeing less and less of me. Just saying.

On a much lighter note, what did you think?

Hey guys, so I'm feeling in the mood to be nice haha so here's a teaser of my upcoming now two-shot. First part should be up as expected on the 15th and the second half will be posted shortly after that. Enjoy :)

All I want for Chistmas is you?

"Hayley, hurry up. It's cold. I don't w.ant you catching a cold."

I scowled glaring at my mother through the annoying bangs that fluttered in my eyes as I slowly followed her up the sidewalk, purposely walking at snails pace. I would give anything to not be here. I just wanted to be alone. Didn't anyone get that?

"Mom, I'm fine. We're like, what? Two feet from the house? Please, I think I'll be fine if I step inside 30 seconds after you."

On the drop of a dime, she stopped and spun around to give me one of those looks; that look seemed to be the only look I ever got these days.

"Hayley, would it kill you to not be sarcastic for once in your life? I love you dearly, but I'm getting on my last nerve with you."

"So you want me to pretend to be something I'm not? Wow, and I thought after all these years you were teaching me to be myself and not try to be somebody. Maybe that's the reason why-"

"Hayley!"

I immediately shut up hearing her tone and felt a tug on the bottom of my coat.

"Haywee."

I shut my eyes knowing instantly who it was. Why? Why me? Why do you hate me so? I carefully opened my eyes and forced a smile for the sake of my little sister.

"Everything's ok Mac," I said softly, leaning over slightly to brush her windblown hair out of her face. "Just..." I sighed and glanced over at my mom who was waiting with an impatient look plastered on her face. "Mom's waiting. You want to go have fun at the party, right?" I laughed quietly upon seeing a large smile take place on her face as her eyes lit up and she nodded happily making her hat dip more into her face. I gently pushed it up so I could see her eyes. "I bet you Mrs. Farro made her famous cookies!"

All it took was one word for the girl to squeal in delight and bound up the steps nearly knocking over my mother to knock on the door.

I let out a laugh and shook my head watching her. She was such a doll. But the second I looked up, I was met with those very eyes I wanted to hide from.

The door opened with a loud squeak and a faint chatter reached my ears following Mrs. Farro's booming cheery voice as she greeted us.

In the meantime, I stared mindlessly at the stone sidewalk beneath my sneaker, willing something to happen to get me out of this. Anything. At this point, I was desperate.

"Hayley, are you coming?"

"Just gimme a second."

"Sure. They guys are in the basement. Just let yourself in," Mrs Farro said happily and I watched as she followed McKayla who trotted excitedly inside the house.

"You better not try to sneak off. We're here as a family and you're my daughter. You need to stop acting like some dramatic teenager and go have fun with your friends. I mean, Hayley, why don't you go talk to Josh? Look at that! Josh is here! I'm sure you two can-"

"I don't want to fucking talk to Josh! Why does everybody always mention Josh? You like him so much, then why don't you make him your son. I'm sure he'll be a breeze compared to me since I'm just a fuck up. " I roared.

The silence that overcame us was unbareble. I didn't know whether or not she was going to yell at me or going to cry.

"Ok then," she said quietly. She straightened out her coat and cleared her throat. "You just....." our eyes met and for once second I felt sorry for her. Her eyes were crystal clear and bright, glistening with what could've been tears if she lost control. She let out a weary sigh. "Do whatever you want, Hayley. I just don't care anymore."

Without another word, she headed right inside leaving me alone in the harsh whipping winds.

 

Wow. It's been a very, very long time. I'm really sorry about that. Life's just been going and I'm having trouble keeping up. I just have no time to sit and write anymore. I can barely read all the fabulous updates that y'all write and I feel terrible. I'm so behind on most of my favorite stories. It's a bit upsetting haha. But as you can see, I managed to find some time to type this up quickly and explain and update you since you might think I have given up. No, I have not. I'm simply far too busy and with the holidays coming up, I honestly don't find that things are going to slow down all that much.

But, I do have good news. I have lots of thoughts for a holiday themed one-shot. It'll be the same sappy, cheesy but romantic winter season story but I think you guys deserve at least something for having waited so long for me.

Although I am forcing myself to make an update, it's only going to be this holiday one-shot. That doesn't mean I am giving up all my stories. I would never do that. I know y'all love them and I just see so much potential for them. Sadly, it's going to be quite some time before you get an update on those. One day I will update them all. Just...not for a while haha.

Once again, thank you soooo much for being so patient with me. I'm sorry that I had to do this but it has to happen. I hope I don't lose everyone as readers because I honestly love each and every one of you leaving me comments on every chapter of ever story or simply buzzing them. I sincerely appreciate that. But, I understand if there is just too much time between updates and you lose interest.

So, let's end this on a happy note.

I will give you a date.

December 15th.

Holiday one-shot.

Mark your calendars and prepare for something good....I hope.

Take care.

S.

 

Over the next few days, Josh couldn't seem to get his mind to shut up. He kept replaying the scene in the hallway repeatedly in his head, trying to put together the pieces of the puzzle. But the puzzle was broken. No matter how many times he tried to solve it, something never seemed to fit. It was frustrating, since Josh was a perfectionist. He hated when things were left undone.

He had to figure this out.

The first Thursday of the school year, Josh strolled into the cafeteria late after talking to his teacher about the lesson from that day and slumped into a chair across from his brother Zac and his friend Taylor. Neither of the babbling boys took notice of Josh and continued talking excitedly amongst themselves.

Josh sighed loudly, glancing at them, but got no response.

He frowned, shifting noisily in his seat and giving another fake, attention wanting sigh.

Still, there was nothing.

"Oh for the love of God, are your ears seriously that bad?" Josh demanded, leaning across the table at them, practically yelling.

Zac slowly looked over and raised an eyebrow, "Are you talking to me?"

Josh groaned, throwing his hands up dramatically he sat back in his chair. "Yes, Zac, yes. Took you long enough. How many times do I have to pretend to be wallowing in self pity for you to talk to me?"

Taylor chuckled, "That was your fake sigh?" Josh nodded, "Man, you gotta work on that. That was pathetic!"

Josh groaned again letting his head fall against the table with a loud thud, not caring that his face was squished up uncomfortably. "My God...I need a life...No, I need new friends."

"Oh, c'mon! We're not that bad. Look at us."

"No."

"Look at us!"

Josh ignored their immaturity and stared mindlessly at the towering pile of fries on his plate; he wanted to eat them but he couldn't bring himself to it. He knew something was off about the whole Hayley thing and couldn't stop thinking about her.

"So, Josh, how are you and Hayley?"

Great, now I'm even imagining Zac mentioning her, he thought.

When the table grew silent, he realized he wasn't imagining that. He quickly looked up and stared wide eyed at his brother who was glancing between stealing onion rings from Taylor's plate and Josh with a serious look on his face.

"What are you...are you out of your fucking mind?" Josh asked in bewilderment, his voice seething quietly.

Zac raised an eyebrow, "Are you?"

Josh sighed and rolled his eyes, "Now isn't the time for jokes and games, Zac. This is serious. You can't be talking about her like that. Someone could hear you and then rumors will start and Ryan will..." Josh trailed, dazing off into thought. "Oh dear Lord, I don't even want to know what he can and will do to me if he hears anything."

"It's not like she's his property. It's not illegal to talk about her. She's just a girl," Zac reasoned.

Josh shook his head, "Yeah, try telling Ryan that and see where that will get you."

Zac frowned, taking a sip of his drink and Josh lowered his eyes back to the table, zoning out once more. "Then why is she looking at you?"

Josh looked up at Zac with a look that told him he was crazy. "What the Hell is wrong with you? I think you were dropped on your head many times as a baby, in fact, I KNOW you were. Why on Earth would you think that Hayley was-" he half-glanced over towards her table and choked on his own breath.

He was instantly lured in by deep, soft green eyes that met his for only a moment before looking down. Josh kept looking across the cafeteria at her, he noticed she kept her head down and played idly with her hands but he could also tell she was desperately trying to keep her eyes on her hands and not elsewhere. Josh frowned and swung his head back to look at Zac, who gave him a pointed look.

"What did I tell ya?"

Josh waved his hand around, dismissing Zac's comment. "Shut up. That's not what...." he found himself at a loss for words, growing more confused with each passing second.

This was getting really weird.

Zac gave up trying to strike up a conversation with his brother and began to talk to Taylor. The two paid no attention to Josh's flustered self.

His mind was now working in overdrive trying to conjure up some sort of explanation for all of these bizarre incidents but nothing seemed to do the trick. Soon, he found himself looking back at her. She still forced her attention on her hands as though they were the most interesting thing in the whole planet. But very secretly, she lifted her eyes up the slightest bit and snuck a glance at him again. Her hair hid her eyes fairly well but Josh still saw. She wasn't as stealthy as she thought. This only confused Josh even more.

So now she was SNEAKING glances at him? What the Hell was going on?

He turned away slightly and out of the corner of his eyes he saw her lift her head up more and felt eyes on him. He almost turned back to catch her in the act, but he thought better of it, especially since Ryan was talking to her. He would surely be in for it had Ryan seen what was going on between them.

But that didn't explain why or what was happening.

********************************************************************************************************

Ok, this has got to be the most horrendous piece of writing I have ever called an update ever. I'm sorry you had to read through that. But, I managed to write something in my time. This is the last short chapter in this story. The plot will really start picking up in the next one and it will be better. I promise.

 

 

Hey guys. Just wanted to let you know that I've been super busy lately and hardly have time to write a decent update so I'm really lacking on those. But I assure you I'll have more updates sometime later this month when I find more free time.

I'm really sorry I've been so lazy lately but when I get around to those updates, it will totally make up for it.

 

 

 

 

Chapter Eleven

"Are you sure it was him?" Josh asked as he poured me a cup of tea. I nodded. We were back in the apartment, and I had just finished telling Josh exactly what had happened.

"It was him, there was no doubt about it," I confirmed. Josh set the cup of tea in front of me, and I stared at it emotionlessly.

"There's no way he knows you're in this apartment though, Hayley. He can't get you," Josh sat down next to me at the kitchen table and began to fiddle with his hands. We were both silent for a few minutes.

"Josh," I began, breaking the silence. "I...I don't want this to put my sisters in danger...or you."

Josh stared at me for a moment. "We should call the police," he said.

"No!" I exclaimed. "If you call the police, they'll send me back to Las Vegas! I'm not supposed to be here, remember?"

"Hayley, we can't just sit around pretending like nothing's happened," Josh said. "I sure as hell don't want you to go back, and I'm not going to let them send you away, but we need their help."

I gripped the tea cup, letting it burn my fingers slightly. "Okay...call them."

Josh pulled out his black cell phone and dialed the non-emergency number for the police. He put the phone on speaker in the middle of the room as we waited for someone to answer.

"Franklin County Police Department," a voice grunted on the other line.

"Uh, hi," Josh said. "My name is Josh Farro, and I...um...have a...er...situation..."

"My name is Hayley Williams," I interrupted him. "I'm lead victim in case 367, taken up by the Witness Protection Program." I saw Josh shift uncomfortably in his seat.

"Right, Miss. Williams," the office responded on the other line. "I know who you are, I know your case. What seems to be the problem?"

"Well, I..." I broke off for a second, glancing at Josh. He moved his hand to rest on top of mine, and I continued. "Four years ago, when I was first initiated into the Witness Protection Program, I was relocated to Las Vegas, as you might be aware of. About two weeks ago, I moved back to my original location of Franklin, Tennessee, where the crime took place."

"Miss. Williams," the officer cut in, "you are aware that having moved back to Franklin puts you in prime danger of the suspect?"

My eyes met Josh's, and I cleared my throat. "Yes, I...I am aware," I muttered. "That is not the reason am I calling, though. Earlier this afternoon, I saw the suspect."

I could tell Josh was having a hard time following what we were saying, because we were using the proper terms to describe everything. This was how they taught me to deal with situations when I was first taken in by the Witness Protection Program.

"You saw the suspect?" the officer asks. I can hear him typing something into a computer on the other end of the line.

"Yes, and the suspect saw me."

"Where are you currently located?" the officer asked. I gave him the address to Josh's apartment. "We'll send someone over there immediately, Miss. Williams. Just stay there for now."

I nodded even though the officer couldn't see. "Thank-you," I said, relieved. At least help was on the way. Josh hung up the phone and pocketed it. We sat in silence for a few seconds, before Josh spoke up.

"Hayley, don't forget that I'm still here. I'm here with you every step of the way. You're not alone."

I smiled softly at him, and he returned it. Josh was right. I'm not alone.

***

"Miss. Williams, can you describe the suspect for me?" the police officer asked. I began to give a general description of him, feeling my voice shake as I did so. Just picturing him terrified me.

The police officer I had spoken to on the phone earlier had come over to Josh's apartment and was questioning us on exactly what had happened. Jeremy had gone to pick up Erica and McKayla from Josh's parents' house and brought them back to the apartment. He, Josh, the officer, and I were now standing in Josh's living room whilst McKayla and Erica stayed in the guest bedroom. They didn't need to hear this.

"I think that's all I need to know, note wise," the officer said, pocketing his notepad and adjusting his police cap. "Now, about your living arrangements-"

"She's staying here," Josh cut in. "She, and her sisters. They're staying here."

"I'm afraid that you have no say in the matter, sir," the officer shot Josh a glare, and Josh's fist clenched. I rested my hand lightly on his arm, letting him know I didn't want another fight.

"I don't want to be relocated again," I said. "I can't do that to my sisters."

The officer nodded, the look on his face grim. "I don't believe it is safe for you to stay here, in this apartment. Most likely, the suspect already knows your whereabouts. It's only a matter of time before he tries to come after you."

I felt my throat clench up, and I didn't say anything. Josh wrapped one arm around me, pulling me against him.

"So...where should Hayley go?" Jeremy asked, his arms crossed.

"There's an empty apartment located about two blocks away," the officer said. "We would pay for the expenses, but we think it's best that Miss. Williams stays there."

"What about my sisters?" I asked. "I don't want to put them into any kind of danger..."

"The best choice would be for them to stay with someone else. A relative, perhaps?"

"I don't...my mother's still in the hospital, and I don't have anyone close enough..." I trailed off, my eyes flickering towards Josh.

"They can stay with me," he said.

"Like I said before, the suspect probably knows of this location. It wouldn't be safe."

"They can stay at my place for a bit," Jeremy offered. I smiled at him gratefully.

"Right," the officer said. "So I suggest you get out of here. Sooner, rather then later. And don't hesitate to call us if you have any concerns."

"Thanks, officer," I shook his hand.

"Now, if you'd like, I can drive you to the apartment I was telling you about. We can get you set up in there immediately."

"That would be great," I said, and I grabbed my coat. I saw McKayla and Erica come out of the bedroom. McKayla ran over to me, and I knelt down to her height.

"Haywee, what's happening?" she asked softly. I felt my heart break as I looked at her. I didn't want to be separated from my sisters. I gave her a hug, feeling tears start to form in my eyes.

"You're going to stay with Uncle Jeremy for a little bit, okay? You and Erica."

She nodded, then pulled away from me and ran over to Jeremy, who picked her up. Erica walked towards me, a frown on her face.

"What's going on, Hayley?" she asked.

"I can't...I can't explain, Erica," I mumbled. "I just need you to cooperate with me. Listen to Jeremy, okay?"

She nodded, and began to walk towards Jeremy, before suddenly turning back around and giving me a hug.

"I love you, Hayles," she told me. "You're the best big sister ever."

I felt my tears began to fall. "I love you, too."

The officer cleared his throat and I knew it was time for me to leave.

"My stuff?" I asked.

"I can bring it over later," Josh said. I nodded towards him and followed the officer out the door. I had no idea what was going to happen to me, or to the ones I loved. But I couldn't let anyone get hurt because of me. I wouldn't let anyone get hurt because of me.

***

Everyone was crowded around the small dining room table inside my new apartment, laughter and cheers filled my ears a small smile gracing my face. Josh sat at the end of the table, a huge grin spread across his face as he eyed the extravagant cake that sat in front of him. He laughed when Jeremy cracked a joke, clamping his hand on Joshs shoulder.

I rolled my eyes; boys will be boys I guess.

"Dude, can you believe it!" Taylor exclaimed, sitting beside Zac who was, to the left of Josh, staring right at the delectable cake I had made. "You're gonna be 22!"

The candles adorning the cake flickered wildly accenting Joshs face and I caught my breath for a moment. Since when did he I shook my head quickly.

No, Hayley, no. No. No. No. No. No.

Just.

NO.

I sighed quietly turning around to shut off the lights.

Why was I even thinking that? That was just wrong.

"Ok! Let's sing to the birthday boy!" I announced, thankful that I had such a powerful voice so that I could be heard over loud parties like these. I flipped the lights, grabbing the silly little party favor hat off the cabinet last minute. I hurried over to Josh, slipping it on his head before he even knew what was going on. I could feel him staring at me as I ran back to the opposite side of the room and twirled around, folding my arms across my chest shooting him a small grin.

He stared at me, in shock, with that hat sitting on the top of his head. I couldn't stop the snort that escaped.

He looked like a tool, but an adorable tool...

Hayley.

Right, I can't be thinking like that. He's my best friend for crying out loud.

I saw his lips curve into a small, mischievous smirk and I instantly knew I was in for it.

Taylor started off the "Happy Birthday" song and everyone joined in, each voice more obnoxious and louder than the first. We were a bunch of tone deaf fools, but I love each and every one of them. I couldn't keep a straight face when Zac went off into some ridiculous opera man accent setting the whole room into a mess of noise, we couldn't even finish off the song. Josh shook his head, and couldn't stop smiling as he stared down at the cake. He paused a minute before he blew out the candles.

Out of nowhere, Joshs' chair was suddenly lifted and he was carried out of the room by whooping Taylor, Zac and Jeremy. I snorted, shaking my head.

They were crazy, that's for sure.

But I wouldn't have it any other way.

Bekah and Hannah helped me clean up the empty plates and cups that scattered the table when there was a loud screeching noise from the living room that made everyone wince and cover their ears.

"Sorry!" I heard Taylor shout and then one of my infamous mix CD's pumped through the speakers.

"I have a new found respect for you, Hayley," Hannah laughed jumping up onto the counter, swinging her legs back and forth idly.

I raised an eyebrow, "Oh do you now?"

She smirked, "Yes. You put up with them like there's nothing to it. I have no idea how you do it because just being in the room with the four of them for five minutes drives me up the wall, but you spend entire weeks with them. And yet you haven't gone insane yet. How do you do it?"

I laughed placing the last of the dishes in the dishwasher. I wiped my hand with the dishcloth removing the last bit of water on the palm of my hand. "I just do. I don't know."

She grinned, and glanced at Bekah, who nodded. She then turned back to me, "I knew it."

"Knew what?" I asked, suddenly getting nervous.

I hated when they shared glances like that. They worried me. I wasn't a mind reader so I couldn't tell you what they were thinking.

"You already are insane."

I rolled my eyes, feeling the need to fix everything in sight in my kitchen.

Nearly an hour later, I dared to enter my living room. I was scared about what I was going to be walking into. Much to my surprise, it was fairly clean, a little too clean for a bunch of boys who were wired on sugar to believe they didnt make a mess. Jeremy and Taylor were too involved in a heated game of 'Guitar Hero' to pay attention to anyone else. Zac was referring and trying to psyche them out. Josh sat on the couch, watching them in amusement, still wearing that silly little hat. I absentmindedly let out a snort and he quickly turned to look at me, his bewildered expression fading into a smile.

"Hey."

I carefully stepped over a few plates lying on the floor and flopped beside him on the couch. "Hey," I finally said, in a breath.

He chuckled softly and reached out brushing my hair out of my face. "You look exhausted. Take it easy, girl. I don't want you passing out on me. It's a party. Have fun." I rolled my eyes. "Don't you be rolling your eyes at me," he warned, I rolled them again just to spite him and the next thing I knew he wrapped his arms around me pulling me onto his lap setting me off into a fury of giggles as he tickled me until I could hardly breathe.

"Josh," I breathed, completely winded.

He smirked, "I suppose I'll let you off the hook...for now anyway."

I slid off him and shoved him lightly. "You're a weirdo."

"That's my job."

I looked at him weirdly, "Your job is to be a weirdo?"

He laughed, "No, you dork." He turned to look back at the ongoing game but I waited until he told me what he was talking about. He half glanced at me out of the corner of his eye and sighed, "You want me to tell you, don't you?"

I nodded, "You think?"

"Ok, he took a breath. He paused a minute, then mumbled something. "You happy now?"

"Josh," I said sternly. It was hard to take the kid seriously when he was wearing that stupid hat. "Why are you still wearing that?" I asked, reaching over to take it off but he was quick and clamped his hands over it protectively.

"I like it."

I snorted, "But you look ridiculous in it."

"So?"

I rolled my eyes, turning my attention to the game as well. I sat back kicking my feet up onto the coffee table. "Hey Josh?" I asked, quietly.

"Yes, Hayley?"

"What did you wish for?"

He slowly turned around and simply stared at me, his eyes wandering my face a few times before meeting my eyes. He whispered, "Something I can't have," and then he turned away.

 

Josh exited the classroom, quietly, ignoring Ryan's sarcastic remarks from his seat near the door, shutting the door softly behind him.

He quickly strode down the hallway in the direction of his locker, mentally scolding himself for being so distracted and forgetting his book.

Wait, what am I rushing for? he thought, easing up on his legs into a mild walk. He casually stuffed his hands in his pockets and observed the empty halls surrounding him. The  only sound he could hear was his own sneakers as they slapped the tiled floor sending a hollow echo bouncing down the hallway. Out of thought, he began to hum to himself, one of his favorites, it was always stuck in his head.

Jimmy Eat World was what got Josh into music and he was ever so grateful for that.

Josh wasn't all that into sports. He could play like a daredevil, but his heart wasn't into the game. It was all good fun for him. Tell that to someone like Ryan who lives and breathes the game and you'll end up head first in a dumpster.

He wasn't very theatrical either.

Or artsy.

But music....

Music just seemed to sorta fit for him.

He turned the next corner sharp, his eyes landing on his locker at the second to last door at the very end of the hall. He sighed, thoughtfully, not really wanting to walk the length of the hall but reminded himself he was missing class for this. Right about now, he was thankful his locker was so far away.

He swung around to face his locker and yanked the door open, his eyes roaming the extent of the storage space for the familiar book. He lightly tapped his fingers against the rusty old door holding down a beat to that very song that had him humming a few minutes before. The dark green binding of the thick textbook caught his eye and he pursed his lips to the side, getting on his toes to reach the book that sat in the very back of his locker, sitting underneath a mess of binders and notecards.

He grasped the book firmly in his hands and shut the locker with a heavy clap that filled the quiet hall for a moment.

And then he headed back to class.

He flipped idly through the book, hoping that something from last year was hidden between the pages, saving him from writing something off the top of his head just like the rest of the class.

He loved to write...just...not when he was required to write. Things didn't come easy to him. He had to feel it, his heart had to be in what he was writing to get anything decent. Otherwise, it was crap. Well, it was still an amazing piece of writing but it didn't have the same WOW feeling most of his papers, poems, or songs did.

He was so distracted in his book that he didn't hear the footsteps of another person heading his way. He was about to round the corner and looked up briefly  just in time to find emerald green eyes staring at him, widened before his chest collided into her.

He grunted and she yelped; starting to fall, but she ended up falling into Josh and the heavy textbook fell out of Josh's hands dropping to the floor loudly.

Both of their breaths were labored as they stood there, as if frozen in that position.

Josh slowly looked down at the bright auburn hair that falling gracefully around her face before he was met by those sparkling, deep green eyes.

Neither of them said a word; their eyes simply remained locked as though they were in a trance.

After what seemed like hours, Josh figured it'd be best to speak, since they hadn't moved since.

"Um..."

"I have to go now," she whispered quickly, Josh felt a weird jolt run through him as her hands pushed off his arms as she regained her balance stepping away from him. Josh watched her noticing her eyes were glued to something on the floor. She bent down and picked up his textbook. As she stood back up, she shook her hair lightly out of her face and lifted her eyes up slowly only to fall back into a gaze with Josh. "Here," was all she said, holding out his book in her hands.

Josh slowly reached out, taking the book gently from her hands, noticing her tense up as their fingers brushed lightly, not breaking their gaze, and neither did she. "Thanks."

"Bye," she blurted out, rushing by Josh and disappearing down the hall before Josh could get another word in.

Josh stared the spot she once stood in a daze. After a few moments, he shook his head pulling his head out of the clouds and back into reality.

As he began his walk back to his class; where he would surely get a lecture for taking so long; he couldn't help but smile.

She was so nervous...and kind.

But why?

She was a CHEERLEADER...

 

 

 

There was a soft creak as the back screen door shut quietly, a muffled conversation coming from the dining room down the hall, as a brunette boy snuck outside into the cool, brisk night.

He quickly ran down the steps, grimacing as his sneakers made an echo with each step he took, and across the grassy back lawn. He cast a nervous glance over his shoulder before hopping the picket fence that lined his backyard and hurried through his neighbors yard until he brushed away the bushes to reveal a dirt road just two streets away from his own house.

He looked up and down the road and saw nobody for miles, only a few lone street lights lining the long road. He bit his lip, chewing his lip ring out of habit, as he stretched out.

He tapped the ground with each foot once sending a cloud of dust up into the air behind his back.

And then he ran.

He ran, fast; dodging fallen branches and overturned trash cans that were thrown into the street from the afternoon storm, his sneakers making deep imprints in the somewhat damp dirt as he continued his run.

His name was Josh, Josh Farro to be exact.

He did this every night; it had become routine for him, something he looked forward to, a calm, soothing way to close out his day. These runs did wonders when his days were rough. Not only was it a great way to stay fit but it also was a great escape. It helped clear his mind, all his troubles seemed to melt away. It was a time where he could get away from it all and simply think about nothing in particular. Just...think. Josh hardly had time during the day for that.

He remembered the first time he had discovered the barn at the very end of this road. It was his first day at middle school, and it was horrible. Everyone teased him, making fun of his hair, his clothes, his love for music- everyone thought it was geeky, and the fact that his younger brother was his best friend. He was tormented, circled, tripped, shoved, laughed at- he was the laughing stock of the school- he was publicly humiliated in front of the entire school in front of the cafeteria. He was beyond humiliated. He couldn't take it all, no one seemed to understand. His parents told him things would get better, it was just one day. Everyone had their bad days. And his brother, his best friend, made a joke out of it. He didn't seem to get how serious this was. But, things never changed. If anything, they got worse. Day after day, Josh had become the so called "Populars" toy. They would play with him, knowing he was miserable.  So Josh decided he was going to run away. He got as far as this street, feeling completely winded and ventured a little farther, here...he found the barn. It overlooked the tiny town as it illuminated by the night lights and instantly left him breathless. He had never seen anything so beautiful in his life before.

No one else knew about it, he was close to telling his brother, Zac, but, he wanted to keep it a secret. He was selfish, sure, but he needed a place where he could go just to think and be alone.

Ever since that night, he would come here. He kept track of time, sneaking out when his family was distracted by dinner talk and make sure he was back within an hour, that way no one would notice he had even left. He was good at it, too. No one did know.

Tomrrow was the first day of a new school year and Josh was nervous. He never wanted to go back there again. He had no one, he was a loner, a geek. His best friend was his brother and he had a love for music.

He couldn't wait until he had graduated. Then he could finally get out of this place and be someone.

He would show them, he would find someone who liked him for who he was and he would make a name for himself.

That would show them.

He slowly down to a walk as neared the end of the road and carefully made his way over the rocks that acted as barrier keeping the barn hidden from the rest of the world. He climbed up the ladder leading up into the loft of the barn and sat down, pulling his knees up to his chest he stared out over the hill that ran down towards the center of town.

Two more years, Farro, he told himself. Two more years and he could finally leave, to never come back.

***

The moment Josh stepped inside the school the next morning, a loud buzz of chatter filled his ears and he groaned, gripping the strap on his backpack tightly and slipping his thumb underneath as he headed down the crowded hallway in search for his locker.

Zac walked alongside him talking up a storm; the boy could talk and talk and talk and talk and- well, you get the picture.

As they neared the corner, a familiar voice reached Josh's ears and he froze. Fear ran through every inch of his body.

"And then he was all-Josh?" Zac frowned, seeing his brother glued to that spot in the hallway, waving a hand in his face. "Yoohoo, anyone there?"

"Zac," Josh said, slowly in a voice close to a whisper. "We have to-"

But before Josh could finish his sentence, a group rounded the corner. They were Josh's biggest rivals in the whole school; they were the cheerleaders and jocks. They were like the sharks of the school, they walked in packs and always backed up what the leader of the pack said, no matter what. Ït was sickening.

"Well, well, well...if it isn't little Farro boy," Ryan, the Quarterback of the football team sneered, walking up to Josh, circling him. Josh kept his eyes on the ground, not wanting to make eye contact with him. Ryan paused noticing this and shoved Josh, making him stumble back slightly. "Hey geek, I'm talking to you. Don't fucking ignore me."

"I wasn't-"

Josh was cut short as Ryan grabbed him by the shirt and pushed him up agains the lockers with a loud clang, Josh winced from the force of the throw but hid it well. "Who said you could talk to me? Are you fucking stupid? I said don't talk to me! You aren't worthy enough."

Josh nodded silently, not wanting to piss him off more.

"Oh, poor little Farro boy. Look," he laughed pushing Josh back into the lockers as he took a few steps back, glancing at his group of friends. "He's scared! The little douche is scared!"

"He is not!" Zac defended, indignantly.

Ryan shot him a glare and Zac immediately shied away and kept his eyes on his feet.

"Listen, we're going to have lots of fun this year, aren't we?" Ryan sneered in fake excitement, draping his arm around Josh's shoulder.

"Ryan, I don't think that-"

But that was all Josh could get out before Ryan shoved him, for the third time, sending him to the ground, after hitting his head off an open locker behind him. The group around him erupted into laughter and Josh felt tears welling in his eyes and willed himself not to cry. He couldn't cry. He was a junior for crying out loud. They don't cry.

He felt a sharp pain in his head as he struggled to at least push himself off from the ground but a kick to his stomach sent him back to the floor. Ryan crouched down next to Josh and yanked him up a little bit.

"This is my turf, Farro. And we're going to play a little game. You do as I say and we won't have any problems, got it?" But Josh was too occupied with the pain rocketing through his chest. "Got it?" Ryan barked getting right in Josh's face.

"Yes!" Josh shouted back.

Ryan grinned, "Good. See you around, punk," he laughed, pushing Josh back onto the floor.

Josh watched quietly as feet passed by him. He slowly turned over, scooting closer to the lockers and pressing his back up against them. His breath was winded and he shut his eyes for a moment. When he opened them, he found a pair of  soft green eyes staring at him underneath auburn hair. He took note of the cheerleading uniform that fit her figure and silently scoffed. But as their eyes continued to lock, he saw something else hidden in them. Something he didn't expect. She didn't say anything, tucking loose strands of hair behind her ears as they fell recklessly in her eyes.

"Hayley!" Josh heard Ryan bark and noticed the girl jump.

"Coming!" she squeaked, her eyes staying interlocked with Josh's for another few seconds before she broke the stare and hurried after her friends.

Josh couldn't help but watch her run down the hall and felt his stomach drop when he saw Ryan's arm loop around her waist pulling her up against him.

But why was she...sympathetic? She was one of them. She was supposed to laugh and mess with him, just like everyone else.

Josh groaned, now feeling the pain again, letting his head hit the lockers with a heavy thud.

"Dude, he is scary," Josh opened his eyes at the sound of Zac's voice, watching as he sat down beside him.

Josh laughed, "That's what I've been telling you."

Zac nodded, "Well, I believe you now."

Josh rolled his eyes just as the bell rang signaling two minutes until class.

"We better get going," Josh said, struggling to get to his feet, fighting the pain that tried to take over. Zac helped him.

"It's going to be a long day."

Josh nodded as the two started down the hall.

*******************************************************************************************************

 

It took everything within me to not cry; I was devastated, heart-broken, betrayed, disappointed, angry. The list goes on.

I had already ripped my favourite picture of the two of us in half in a rage of fury. I tried so hard to brush it off, but it was useless. The words he spoke to me nearly four hours ago cut through me like a knife. Obviously I wasn't going to tell him how I really felt. So, I lied. I told him it was OK and that I understood.  But, it wasn't OK and I didn't understand how someone could do this to me.

This wasn't just anyone, though.

This was my favourite person in the entire world, the one person I could turn to for anything knew he would always be there for me, the one person who knew everything about me; even things I didn't know about myself, and no matter what he could always put a smile on my face. He was my best friend.

Josh Farro.

I tiny tear slowly ran over my cheek to land with a loud splat on the glossy photograph I held in my hands. There was a fuzzy glow radiating off the television screen and the muffled voices of actors were distance to my ears as I completely drowned out every sight, every sound, every touch of everything surrounding me except for the photograph. I sniffled quietly, wiping with my sleeve at my nose, ashamed that I was getting so worked up over this. I was embarassed that I was crying. I sat curled up on my couch, in the dark staring at this picture; the only light was casting off the television screen flickering across my face.

Normally, I wouldn't have made a big deal out of this.

But tonight....tonight was special.

Every year since I had moved to the pretty, little town of Franklin; on my birthday Josh and I would spend the night at my house; pigging out on junk food and watching a marathon of our favorite movies late into the night. We'd laugh so hard we ended up crying and my mom would yell at us for being so loud only making us laugh even harder as we tried our very best to keep quiet. But, that never happened. We were two of the most obnoxious people when we were together, everyone knew it. Even a stranger passing by us on the street could tell. We were so predictable. The movies would run so late we'd either pull all-nighters all hyped up on energy drinks and candy or we'd fall asleep half-way through a movie.

I adored those nights; they were the ones I looked forward to all year.

But, this year, something changed.

I had been anxious all morning, trying to occupy myself with stupid little things to try and pass the time faster until Josh would get here.

The eager knock on my door came and I dropped my book, letting it hit the floor with an echoing thud, rushing down the stairs at light speed.

I pulled open the door with a grunt smiling wide.

He smiled back at me, but he was acting odd; fidgeting and not really looking at me much.

I frowned, "Is everything OK?"

He nodded, "Yeah. Yeah, everything is fine," but the silence fell upon us yet again. He had his hands behind his back, as though he were hiding something.

"So...you gonna come in?" I asked, letting out a half laugh afterwards, opening the door a little more to let him step inside.

He continued to stare at the brown weathered "Welcome" mat sitting underneath my sneakers, his eyes were distant but he managed to nod.

A few faint snowflakes began to fall gracefully from the sky as the clouds rolled overhead approaching slowly. I bit my lip, flipping my hair with a shake of my head, keeping my hand on the door. What was up with him?

"Josh? What's going on? Did something happen?" I asked, concerned. "Is it Zac? Or Isabelle? Oh my gosh," I gasped bringing my hand up to my mouth in shock, "You're hurt, aren't you? Josh! Why didn't you tell me about-"

"Hayley, I can't make it to your house tonight," he interrupted quickly, still keeping his eyes locked on the mat beneath my feet. "You see, Sarah has this party and I promised her that I would go but, she's having the party in Atlanta at some hotel so I have to pack because we're leaving tonight."

"Oh," I tried to hide the disappointment in my voice. "Well, that's OK. I totally understand. Don't worry about it," I lied.

He lifted his head up suddenly and met my gaze; he stared at me a moment, his eyebrows furrowing as the took in what I said. "Really?"

I forced a smile and gave him a small nod. "Yeah. Listen, I don't want to be a bother and be the reason you can't go. I'll be fine."

"You honestly aren't mad?"

I laughed weakly, "No," my voice waivered slightly but Josh didn't notice. "Josh, I don't want to be that one controlling friend who doesn't let you hang out with your other friends. I know you're dying to go to this party. And I want you to be happy. Just go," I assured him. "I don't mind."

A smile crept up onto his face, "Aw, Hayley. You're the best!" he stepped forward and threw his arms around me pulling me into a tight hug.

"What are friends for?"

He pulled back slowly, still smiling. "Seriously, you don't know how much I love you for this," I absentmindedly winced at the word love. Sure he didn't mean it like that but it still felt weird to hear him say it. He hardly ever said it to me. "I owe you. Big time."

I waved my hand as if dismissing him, "Oh, stop it. You don't owe me."

He frowned, "Yes, I do. I'm going to make it up to you," he insisted.

I rolled my eyes, "Just get out of here before I smack you," he laughed as I gave him a playful shove towards the gravel walkway leading towards the sidewalk as the snow began to fall harder, a thin layer of the white powder coated the pavement surrounding my house.

"Hayley, you're the best!"

I forced a laugh, waving at him as he turned around and walked away as I shut the door. The second the door shut, I fell back into it and slid in a pathetic heap at the bottom consumed by my tears.

Here he was... Josh Farro.

The nicest person in the entire world.

There wasn't a single person who didn't like him; he was just too nice, sometimes.

Yet, here he was....doing this.

I honestly didn't think he had it in him. He would never do that to me, he was better than that.

And yet, that was exactly what he had just done.

My fucking best friend ditched me on my birthday.

I sighed carefully placing the ripped picture back together like broken pieces of a puzzle. I couldn't help but smile faintly as I remembered the day the photo was taken.

Josh had scared me; coming up behind me and engulfing me in a hug. He picked me up off the ground and swung me around. I was screaming my lungs out; but after the initial shock wore off, I couldn't stop laughing. Josh and I both laughed so hard we had tears in our eyes and he started to mimic me; a hobby most of my friends had. Although, I must say, they were pretty damn good at it.

It was the day after our band got the news that we would be heading off that summer on a full-blown leg of the Vans Warped Tour. I had a mixture of emotions; I honestly couldn't tell you if I was more excited or nervous about the adventure.

Regardless, the Farros held a kick-off BBQ in their backyard to celebrate our sudden dream come true. And of course, my mom was running around freaking out about everything; snapping pictures of people like crazy. I'm pretty sure most of the people didn't even know she took their picture.

Out of the corner of my eye I saw her approaching us and turned my head, purposely ignoring her. I heard her getting closer but didn't acknowledge her at all. Josh was completely oblivious, talking animatedly about some insane story.

He was so unsuspecting.

At the very last minute, I grabbed his face in my hands, turned him towards my mom posing her camera at us and planted a kiss on his cheek. It was a friendly kiss, nevertheless, the look on his face was absolutely priceless.

I let out a quiet laugh, as more memories from that day seemed to come rolling back.

And the next thing I knew, the tears were streaming again.

I tried to wipe them away but they were persistent and there was no point trying to stop them.

I stared longingly at the photograph wondering what I did wrong.

"Happy birthday, Hayley," I whispered to myself.

There was a heavy thud and I cast a glance out the window, a large clunk of snow toppled from the roof hitting the glass noisily. The storm was getting pretty bad. They said it was near blizzard conditions, which was rare for a place like Tennessee, we weren't used to this kind of weather.

My mind automatically wandered to Josh and I prayed that he was OK.

It's not save to be out driving right now. The driving conditions are horrible.

I gently trailed my finger over the glossy side of the picture, unable to take my eyes off the photo. I brought this picture with me everywhere; it was something to remind me of home and I needed that; I got homesick often. I kept it framed on my nightstand beside my bed every night I was home.

It was, in a sense, a good luck charm.

But now, it was ruined. I ripped it.

I scowled under my breath when the door bell rang breaking me out my trance. I looked up, moving my eyes across the room towards the threshold from the hall. I heard footsteps pounding down the carpeted hall and saw my mom pass on her way towards the door. I bit my lip, straining to eavesdrop on the conversation. But it was difficult when you had my mom's famous cake wafting from the kitchen throughout the whole house, distracting me.

I could barely hear her voice over the television that seemed to scream at me because of it's high volume; I must've zoned out so much I didn't realize how loud it actually was. She sounded anxious and uneasy.

I quietly rose to my feet and walked slowly over towards the door. As I got closer, another more distinguished male voice reached my ears and I froze.

No.

He wasn't here.

He was...on his way to that party. He just told me that.

My mind was playing tricks on me, there was no way he-

"Josh, I don't know. She's really upset."

Ok, so he WAS here. But why? He said he wasn't going to be here.

"I know, but, I had a reason. I'm sure she'll understand."

"I don't think you understand how much you hurt her. She won't do anything. She practically tore apart her room. She hasn't left the couch in hours. She hasn't even spoken to anyone. And she won't even eat. You know how the girl is for food, she NEVER refuses food. You know that."

I heard Josh sigh and it broke my heart.

Wait, why are you feeling sorry for him? He's the one who ditched you.

"I didn't mean for this to happen. I was actually kind of hoping she'd bust me and know I was making something up."

I need to do a better job of brain to mouth communication.

"You lied to me?"

Both of them spun around to stare at me with matching bewildered expressions on their faces. My mom smiled at me sympathetically and Josh shook his head.

"Um, how much of this did you actually hear?"

I scoffed, crossing my arms, "Enough to figure out that you lied to me."

"That's not true and you know it. I would never-"

"You just said I would know you were making something up."

He got quiet and lowered his gaze to the floor.

I laughed bitterly, "Wow, I must really be an idiot, then, huh? Not only do I get ditched by my best friend, but he also lies to me to get out of hanging out with me."

"Hayley, stop that. You know that I love-"

"Don't even try to save your ass. I just heard what you said, Josh. I just...never thought it'd happen."

"Hayley," my mom said quietly, feeling the tension start to rise. "He didn't lie to you."

"Oh," I laughed, throwing my hands up for effect. "So, now you're defending him? I can't believe this. How could you? You're my own mother."

"You're jumping ahead of yourself, sweetheart. You don't even know all the facts."

"I don't need to know them. I know I was just played like a puppet by my best friend. I think that's all I need to know. I don't need to be reminded of it all."

"You're overreacting."

"No! No, I'm not, mom! You weren't the one who was ditched by your best friend. YOUR BEST FRIEND! ON YOUR FUCKING BIRTHDAY!" At this point I was screaming and the tears were yet again falling.

"Hayley!" my mom scolded, "Stop acting like this!"

"What? I can't be hurt about this? Wow, thanks mom. Fine, take his side. I don't care. I don't care anymore. Whatever."

I turned around quickly and fled the room, running back to the couch. I saw the familiar picture sitting on the cushion and slowly picked it up. I held it tightly in my hands, ready to rip it into a thousand tiny pieces again but I couldn't bring myself to it.

"Do it."

I jumped, dropping the halves in a scattered disarray at my feet upon hearing Josh's voice. He sounded so calm and quiet. Unlike me, I was a wreck. Shouting like a banchee.

"No," I replied, "No. I won't do it because I know you want me to. And I'm not going to do what you want because I'm mad at you," I twirled around finding Josh standing a few feet away watching me, curiously. My mother had disappeared, obviously finding it best to leave us alone.

"Hayley, I'm sorry. If you just-"

"Sorry just doesn't work for me," I said emotionlessly. I saw Josh shut his eyes tight and turn his head down as he shook his head. "You don't know...how you hurt me...Josh, how could you? You ditched me...for what? I don't even know considering you even lied about the reason you couldn't make it. Yet here you are."

"You want to know why?" he asked, in a voice so quiet I thought I imagined it.

"Yeah, I do."

"Ok, fine. This is why," he spat, I could hear the bitterness in his voice as he flung a book at me. He still wouldn't look at me, instead he stared at the couch where the book had fallen. I glanced at him and then at the book and then back at him before I made my way back to the couch to sit down.

I cast a final glance at him but he didn't meet my gaze yet. I carefully picked up the fragile book in my shaking hands; more tears burst through as I opened the book.

I turned the pages slowly, absorbing each and every page as pictures and quotes lined each inch of the construction papered scrapbook. Each page displayed a picture from each year we had been friends leading up in chronological order until the last page where the very picture that I had just ripped sat.

"You...you made this?" I asked, looking up.

Josh's sad, deep eyes finally met mine and he gave me a sad smile. "Yeah...it took me forever. I wanted to make it perfect....for you. Hayley, I wanted to give you the perfect gift and...I wanted to do it right...so I needed more time. That's why I lied. I was never going to ditch you for some party. Hell, there is no such party. I would never dream of ditching you. You're my best friend and...." he trailed as I stood up, seemingly at a loss for words.

I laughed quietly, a hint of a smile tugging at my lips. "You could've picked a better excuse."

He laughed, too and we stood there in silence staring at each other.

Very slowly, Josh started walking towards me. I cautiously took steps back when he got closer until my back was up agains the wall. At that moment, he was towering over me, with his hands pressed up on either side of me against the wall. We stared deep into each others eyes, the only sound I could hear was our heavy breathing as our eyes remained locked.

"What are you doing?" I whispered.

"Something I've been wanting to do since the day I met you."

I shot him a questioning look before he pressed his lips against mine. I was shocked at first but soon relaxed into the kiss, shutting my eyes. He pulled away after a minute, leaving me breathless. He laughed quietly and I quickly opened my eyes.

"Whoa."

He smiled, "Hayley...I love you."

I swear my heart stopped beating as he uttered those three words.

"W-what?"

"I love you," he repeated.

"I know what you said, I just...."

He chuckled softly and cupped my face in his hands making me look at him. "I'm IN love with you. I have been since the moment I met you."

I stared at him for another moment, unable to form a proper sentence. A small grin crept onto my face, "Happy birthday to me," he laughed at the look on my face. I carefully wrapped my fingers tightly around a fist full of his hoodie, staring at my hands before looking up at him."I love you, Josh."

He smiled, his eyes full of adoration. "Gosh, I love hearing that," I giggled quietly before he gently crashed his lips into mine again.

There's no me without you.

 

 

From the moment Josh stepped inside Mr. William's office, a bad feeling churned deep in the pit of his stomach. He quickly cast a nervous glance at Hayley but she sat stiff in the chair with her eyes glued to the floor while Scott looped his arms around her waist pulling her to sit on his lap. His hands were too low, toying with the hem of Hayley's hoodie before disappearing completely underneath the fabric with his free arm wrapped tightly around Hayley.

Josh shut his eyes turning away. He couldn't stand here and watch that.

"Joshua," came Mr. Williams voice, making Josh's eye snap open. "If I do recall, I believe I told you that you were not allowed to be around Hayley. Did you think I was joking?"

"Sir, with all due respect, this isn't what it looks like," Josh spoke carefully, trying to keep his words as formal as he could.

"It looks like you were with her directly after I forbid you from doing so."

"Ok," Josh let out a nervous laugh, "When you say it like that, it's gonna look bad," but he saw his attempt at lightening the mood didn't even crack and smile and immediately made a serious face. "Sir," he cleared his throat, "If you let me explain what happened, I would gladly confirm the facts."

Mr. Williams frowned, eying Josh and glancing back at Hayley. Scott seemed to have control over her but he made sure to keep it a secret so that Mr. Williams couldn't see it.

"I don't understand how you could deliberately disobey me. I trust you, Joshua. You're one of my most responsible employees and I can count on you for anything. I don't know what you do, but I like it. You're a lucky guy. I'm hardly ever fond of my employees," he paused, "But...after hearing this....I just don't know."

"Sir, I assure you nothing was going on between your daughter and I."

A muffled yelp filled Josh's ears and his eyes darted towards Hayley. She was biting her lip, trying to slip away from Scott without bringing attention to her but Scott wasn't having any of it. He kept a strong, firm grip on her in turn hurting her.

Mr. Williams didn't seem to notice; he was too busy focusing on Josh.

"I honestly would love to believe that what you're saying is true but I've been told by a witness that you were fooling around with her."

"And you seriously would believe that jacka- I mean...witness?" Josh corrected, letting his anger get under his skin.

"Yes, Joshua. I have many trusted and loyal friends here. They look out for me and people dear to me, like my daughter. If they see something shady going on, I'm certain they'd tell me about it. And without a doubt that whatever they tell me is true. They wouldn't lie to me."

"Mr. Williams?"

Josh shut his eyes, dreading the voice the cut into his conversation. He knew this was only going to be more bad news. Scott was clearly out to get Josh out of the picture. He knew that Josh knew what kind of person he was and wanted him gone so he wouldn't have a snitch and could continue having his way. It was all part of his plan.

"Yes, Scott?"

"I'm sure Josh here is a nice kid. I don't know him personally, but, I don't like seeing him around Hayley. I care about her wellbeing. She means the world and more to me and I don't want someone to hurt her. It would break my heart."

"And you're sure Joshua is that type of person? You just said you don't know him personally."

Scott laid his eyes on Josh, making him fidget. Scott was a sweet talker. He'd say what you want to hear to get on your good side. Josh could see it just by what he was saying right now. "I know. And I don't. But, you can never be too careful. I know guys like him. They hail from the South, putting on their charm, spreading their pity story and all the struggles they've gone through to make it here, putting on a show to make you feel bad for them. Then, once they get under your wing, they think they can do no wrong. That because they know you, they can do anything and get away with it. All they want is one thing; money. Or...in this case," Scott looked down at Hayley noticng her sliding from his lap and he juggled her weight in his arms pulling her firmly back against him. "Her."

When Mr. Williams turned his back, Scott shot Josh a hateful glare. But once he turned back around, he put on a smile.

"I see where you're coming from. And I agree. I don't know who to trust. Sometimes the people you think you can trust decieve you to get what they want. They'll warm up to you and then turn on a dime and stab you in the back, just like that. I know, I've been there. And I refuse to let it happen again. Joshua, I'm giving you one more chance. I know you have potential here but if I catch you around her again, I will-"

"You're letting him off that easily?" Scott interrupted, with a disgusted scoff.

Mr. Williams slowly turned to face him, "Why not? There isn't any proof that he has done anything to lose my trust. After-all, I'm basing this all on word of mouth. I didn't physically see the two of them together. You did. I'm trusting your judgement and taking it into consideration. Everyone deserves a second chance, Scott."

"You're making a big mistake," Scott insisted, through gritted teeth as he clenched his fist around Hayley's wrist hard enough to bruise her.

"And why would you say that? There is nothing to convince me otherwise that Joshua-"

"You want your proof?" Scott jumped to his feet, suddenly, tugging Hayley with him. "Is that what you want? Proof?" he laughed bitterly, lacking humor as he pulled something off the seat of the chair. "I didn't want to have to resort to this," he shot Josh a fake sympathetic look as he strode over to the television set. He pushed a cassette tape into the slot and pressed play before stepping back. "I got your proof."

Josh stared in shock as the security camera recorded their entrance a mere half hour ago; the two of them laughing and smiling, their hands entwined together, and before long Josh was kissing her hand.

Mr. Williams shut the tape off instantly after that display with a rough hand and a tension filled silence came between the room. "I've seen quite enough."

"Sir, that meant nothing. I was just-"

"That's enough, Joshua. I've seen what I needed to see. I don't need to hear your excuses. The tape clearly shows something more than just talking."

Josh nodded silently, lowering his head to face the carpeted floor of Mr. William's office.

"Dad," Josh whipped his head up at the sound of Hayley's voice, it was the first time she had spoken since they had gone upstairs. "He was just being nice."

"Hayley, don't get involved in this. This has nothing to do with you."

"It has everything to do with me! You're acting like I'm some sort of precious, valuable property. I'm just a kid. I shouldn't be treated as though I'm some princess or something."

"Hayley, stop. You know I'm looking out for you. I just want what's best for you."

"And how is telling Josh to stay away from me what's best for me? He's a genuine, kind-"

"Hayley, I will not be having this conversation right now."

"But dad-"

"No! And that's final. You are not allowed to see him. Do I make myself clear?"

"You should be telling me to stay away from Sco-" she cut herself off in an instant feeling Scott's eyes shoot an intense glare her way and his grip on her wrist tightened even more. She willed herself not to cry.

"Who?"

"Nothing," she whispered, shaking her head. "Nothing."

Mr. Williams watched his daughter another moment, completely oblivious to what Scott was doing to her right under his nose, and turned back to Josh. He sighed, "Joshua, I want you to stay clear of my daughter. This is your last warning. If I hear or see the two of you together, there will be severe consequences. Am I understood?"

Josh nodded meekly. "Yes, sir."

"Good. Now, get out of my sight before I change my mind."

Josh avoided looked at Mr. Williams in fear of his life as he snuck past the chair heading towards the door. He felt Hayley's eyes watching him but he refused to met them. He knew he would crack if he did.

The door shut quietly behind him as he left the office.

 

 

 

That night, Josh couldn't sleep. He glanced at his alarm clock on the nightstand beside him and groaned loudly. It was already 5 A.M. which meant he'd have to get up in about two hours for work. There was no way he was getting to sleep at all.

He sighed and threw his sheets off him, kicking his feet over the edge of the bed as he sat up.

He grabbed the cabinet handle and pulled it open forcefully, rummaging through his drawer. As his fingers closed around the familiar box, he smiled.

He told himself that these were in case of an emergency, but tonight pretty much seemed to be the case.

He wandered about his room quickly, snatching his hoodie off of the tv. How it got there, he had no idea. He didn't care that he wasn't looking up to par with his work standards. He shuffled quietly down the hall in his pyjama's, deciding to walk down the stairs instead of taking the elevator. It would kill more time and that's exactly what he needed to do.

He knew he shouldn't be obssessing this much over a girl he hardly knew but...he couldn't stop. He knew something was bothering her, he could just tell. After-all, he'd had a rough life himself and knew when someone was hiding something. She wasn't happy. And he had a feeling that Scott had something to do with it.

Images of the first night he met her in the elevator flashed through his mind as he passed the through main lobby, a light casting from the elevator across the room caught his eyes.

Hurt.

Fear.

That's what he saw through her eyes. He scowled, gripping the carton tighter in his hands crunching it up. Josh knew from experience that you could figure someone out by looking in their eyes. They might say things and act differently but the truth was hidden in their eyes.

Just picturing her appearance that night, her eyes, the way she winced...

Even if he didn't know how, Josh did know one thing.

He had to save her.

He carefully pushed open the heavy doors of the hotel, a wave of cool air burst at his face when he stepped outside. He wrapped his arms casually around himself protecting his body from the harsh air. He could tell winter was on the way.

He strolled down the street, watching his feet as he went; not paying much attention to where he was headed. He didn't really care anyway. He knew this city like the back of his hand. It was impossible for him to get lost here.

He slowly unclasped his fingers from around the carton and pulled out a cigarette. He placed it in his mouth and bit down on it as he fumbled around for a lighter in his pockets when he heard someone sobbing.

He froze, accidentally dropping the lighter with a noisy clang to the pavement, cursing under his breath when the sobbing stopped. Out of the corner of his eye he saw a figure haunched over sitting on the edge of the curb, staring out into the street. A hood covered their head, hiding their identity.

Josh frowned, hesitant to confront the person.

"Are you ok?" he asked, softly, knowing it was probably a touchy matter.

He noticed the figure tense up and he saw fingers grip at the hood as the person tried to hide themselves even more. But Josh has amazing eyes. A tiny sprinkle of red snuck out of the hood.

"Hayley?" He smiled to himself when he heard her curse under her breath and he took a step forward.

"No," Josh snorted at her attempt to hide her voice. "I'm...Rosetta," she lied, using a thick european accent.

"I know it's you, Hayley. I'm not stupid, you know."

"What do you want?" she snapped, still not turning to face him. He could hear the crack in her voice was from crying.

"I can explain-"

"No. Don't even bother. I heard you the first time. I don't need an explanation."

"No, Hayley, goddamnit, listen to me," Josh had sat down beside her at this point. "You don't even know why we're not supposed to talk. Believe me, I want to get to know you. Honestly. But your dad..."

"What about him?" Hayley whispered, turning her head to avoid looking at Josh.

Josh sighed, reached forward to tilt her chin to make her face him. "He....he wants to protect you. He wants what's best for you. And he thinks that keeping me away you is what's best. He told me to stay away from you. And...he's my boss. I have to listen to him." Josh stared deep into her eyes, trying to read her through them.

He was confused to find her staring back with the same intent look plastered on her face. Soon Hayley's hand found Josh's and she clasped her fingers around his, not breaking their locked eyes. "Don't."

"What?"

"Josh, don't play dumb," she laughed quietly. "You know what I said."

"But, he's my boss and your dad. I respect him. I can't just blatantly go against his wishes."

"Why not?" Hayley asked, softly,and Josh found it harder to resist her. The faint moonlight of now the fading moon made her gorgeous green eyes glisten as she blinked at him. A half-smile made her lips curve upwards in a cute smile that was toying with Josh's brain.

He knew he couldn't be around her but...

"Do you want me to get fired or something?" Josh inquired, incredulously.

Hayley laughed quietly and Josh watched as she carefully rested her head against his shoulder, staring back out across the street. "Of course I don't want that."

"What exactly are you saying?"

She sighed and Josh found his heart beating faster with each passing second as he looked down at her. Her eyes flickered up at him, "Look," she began, pausing, carefully chosing her words. "I know this is going to sound crazy...but...I kinda need you."

As much as Josh tried to stop it, a broad grin broke out onto his face. "Really?"

Hayley looked down and nodded shyly, "Well...yeah," she laughed nervously.

Josh glanced down at their intertwined hands and gave her hand a light squeeze watching in amusement when Hayley suddenly looked at their hands. "I'm not going anywhere."

Hayley's head darted up and almost like clockwork, Josh found himself drawn to her eyes. "Thanks."

Josh simply smiled back and slowly leaned forward. Hayley watched him curiously, not moving a muscle. As Josh got closer, he heard her breath hitch and smirked to himself before pressing his lips to her forehead gently.

An unstoppable smile appeared on Hayley's face when he pulled away and she noticed his face turn red slightly from embarassment. She grinned and wrapped her arms around him tightly, nestling her head against his chest. Josh was shocked at first but he soon looped his arms around her tiny frame acting as her shield.

They sat in silence, staring down the street where off in the distance the bright reds, yellows and pinks started swirling as the sun began it's ascent into the sky.

Time seemed to stop and nothing else mattered. All of their worries melted away along with reality.

A quiet snore snapped Josh out of his trance and he glanced down at Hayley's now sleeping figure, with a small smile. But the loud honking of a taxi whizzing down the street snapped him back into reality and Hayley jumped, jolting wide awake. Their eyes met shyly and Hayley slowly pulled herself out of Josh's arms, twirling her hair loosely in her fingers.

Josh yawned, glancing down at his phone in his hands.

"Fuck!"

"What?" Hayley asked, frantically, her eyes searching his face wondering what was wrong. "What's going on?"

Josh laughed, "Calm down, girl," Hayley playfully narrowed her eyes at him and Josh sighed. "I'm late for work." He got to his feet with a jump and leant back over, offering Hayley his hand. She smiled and gratefully accepted as he helped her stand up.

Neither of them realized their hands remained laced as they headed back towards the hotel. Much to both of their disappointment, the familiar building loomed overhead a lot faster than they would have hoped. Josh carefully led Hayley through the revolving doors out of the cold morning air into the heated lobby.

Hayley giggled as Josh acted like a suave British butler, kissing her hand and all as he held the door for her.

"Well, well, well. Look who we've got here."

Josh and Hayley froze in their tracks in recognition of the voice and slowly looked up. There stood Scott grinning in all his pathetic glory. His eyes trailed down catching Josh's attention and immediately he saw Hayley's hand holding his. He quickly tore his hand from hers and took a step away. Hayley watched him, curiously, wondering what he was doing when Scott stepped forward suddenly and grabbed Hayley's wrist yanking her against his chest.

"I've been so worried about you," he cooed, planting a kiss on her lips against her will. "Thank God you're back. I missed you, baby."

Josh couldn't tear his eyes away, as much as he was disgusted by this. He kept his gaze on Hayley as she let out a half whimper.

A low chuckle that reached Josh's ears made him tense up. Slowly, Josh turned and met Scott's malicious smirk. He gulped, nervously dreading the words he knew were about to be spoken.  "Well, my friend. You...are in A LOT of trouble."

 

 

 

What was I trying to prove? There was no point; it wasn't even like he cared. If he cared, he wouldn't have left me. He wouldn't have given up. He wouldn't have lied to my face about how he felt.

It was over. We both knew it, but I wasn't going to forget it. I wasn't going to forget him. How could I?

Just like the saying goes, you always remember your first true love, or something like that.

But it was done.

And I was glad...but deep down it broke my heart.

It wasn't worth the tears, the pain, the heartache, the shouting....he wasn't worth anything.

I choked out a wretched sob, wallowing in self pity behind the closed curtain of my bunk. Everyone hated how tiny these things were, but I actually liked them. I felt safe, weirdly enough, I could sleep for hours without a disruption unlike sleeping in my bed at home. I bit my lip, trying to shut myself up so I could hear what was going on outside. I could hear hushed murmurs from the front lounge but I couldn't make out any words to save my life.

I fought through the tears falling freely down my face and rolled over burying my face into my worn pillow in a failed attempt to drown out everything when a shrill squeal and an outburst of uncontrollable giggling erupted the quiet air, following a whiny, "Josh! Stop!"I automatically grimaced.

I had been replaced; replaced.

Do you know what it feels like to be replaced? It's a horrible feeling, you feel downright miserable, hurt, rejected, unloved, unwanted, unimportant, useless, alone, confused...what did you do wrong? Absolutely nothing.

It would make it a lot harder to hate the girl if she wasn't so goddamn likeable. She was friendly and sensitive and funny, she was adorable and most importantly, she was geniune. There wasn't anything to hate about her. Except for the fact that she had the one thing I wanted...the one thing that I needed.

Josh....

***

It was a typical friday night, our gang was hanging out at Taylor's house; everyone was too busy yelling and arguing about what movie we were going to watch and what type of pizza we were going to order; Gods knows we're the only people in the history of the world that argue over what topping to get on a pizza. And somehow, Josh and I managed to sneak off, unnoticed. We crept stealthily up the stairs, dodging Taylor's parents wandering around the house, dropping to the floor to roll by the kitchen in fear of being caught to make a mad dash towards the door. The second we got outside, and the door shut with a soft thud behind us, the two of us burst into boughts of laughter. We were laughing so hard, we couldn't even breath and had to clutch our stomachs they hurt from all the laughs.

"How about we ditch them for a little? I'm sure they won't mind....or notice. Zac was really getting into that debate over why Meatball topping on a pizza owned over every other kind."

I laughed, nodding. "He's an odd, food obssessed boy."

Josh snorted as we carefully stepped off the porch, our sneakers slapping the pavement loudly and in sync. "Tell me about it. You don't live with the kid. Consider yourself lucky. You should see half the crap he does when you're not around."

I shot him a small smirk before yanking open the passenger door to his truck and climbing in. "You're right. I am lucky," I laughed, glancing at him as he fumbled to find his keys to start the truck up.

"Don't push your luck, girl. Karma will come back and bite you."

I scoffed, kicking my feet up unto his dashboard, "Oh please, Josh. Don't tell me you seriously believe that. It's a bunch of crap. And besides, only girls are into that whole horoscope stuff. You aren't a girl, are you?" Josh narrowed his eyes at me and I raised an eyebrow in satisfaction. "Exactly. So ha! I win."

I saw Josh eye my feet up on his dashboard and then glance at me. I know that look.

"What did I tell you about doing that? You know that ruins the car."

"Oh gimme a break. It does not."

"Says the girl who thought nothing would happen if you put your hand in the toaster to take out the toast when it was still on."

"Hey! I was 11!" I defended, trying to show him I was serious but a smile broke through. It was hard not to smile around him.

"Even I wasn't that stupid for an 11-year old."

I rolled my eyes, sitting back in my seat, absentmindedly wondering why he hadn't started the car yet. "Yeah, well I learned my lesson. That trip to the hospital was pure torture. I am never doing that again."

Josh laughed, "Apparently, you didn't learn it well enough."

I saw a familiar look creep onto his face and immediately knew I was in trouble. But before I had time to react, he had lunged at me, tackling me down into the seat, tickling me like crazy. I squirmed against him, protesting like there was no tomorrow. I squealed and giggled struggling to hide from him but he had turned into the notorious tiickle monster. He knew I always fell victim to that. I was extremely ticklish.

Curse him for knowing all my weak spots.

"Josh! I cant....breathe!" I whispered between labored breaths..

Josh smirked mischeivously, "Say mercy!"

"N...ev...er!" I shouted back finding it hard to utter a simple word without becoming breathless, with a grin of my own.

"Say it!"

"No!"

"Say it!"

"No! I won't!"

"Say mercy!"

"Josh!"

"Say it!"

"Mercy!" I squeaked, causing him to chuckle in amusement.

"I knew you'd cave."

"I wasn't going to."

"Yeah, sure you weren't. You're weak, Williams."

"I only said it to shut you up. You're annoying."

"You still surrendered."

"You wouldn't shut up about it!"

He eased up, but remained hovering over me.

Both of us were panting like dogs, laughing a little every now and then trying to regain a steady breathing pattern.

"I hate you," I wheezed, shaking my head and I heard Josh snort shortly. "I'm serious." He didn't repond, instead I found him staring deep into my eyes. It was as though he was in a trace and I nervously let out a quiet laugh. "Josh....are you ok?" He still didn't say a word and I was growing a little uncomfortable. He was starting to scare me. Why wasn't he saying anything. I slowly bit my lip, "Um...Josh if this is about your car, I'm sorry but-"I was cut off abruptly by his lips crashing against mine passionately.

He pulled away after a moment, leaving me gasping for air and in a half-daze. My eyes frantically searched for his and once they met, I calmed down in a second. He gave me a shy, nervous smile.

"That was... for...um...talking so much, yeah, talking so much," he said, lamely.

I rolled my eyes. "Just admit it, Josh. You wanted to kiss me."

"Yeah, I do."

I looked back at him suddenly, not expecting him to be so honest about that before his lips collided with mine once more, this time more gentle than before.

"Hayley, I kinda sorta really like you."

My eyes fluttered open, still in shock from him kissing me...twice, and then a small smile formed on my lips. "I...I kinda sorta really like you,too."

***

"Josh! That tickles!"

I jerked out of my reverie in an instant.

I've had enough. He's doing the exact same thing he did to me to her. How dare he.

I can't sit here and listen to that anymore.

I threw open the curtain angrily and jumped out of my bunk. The noises from the inside of the bunk ceased the moment my feet hit the floor with a heavy thud. I scowled, storming past his bunk out into the front lounge. I ignored the eyes I could feel boring a hole through me as I headed towards the door.

"Walk," was all I mumbled, flinging the door open and stepping out into the cool night, feeling a waft of fresh air sweep across my face, whipping my hair about briefly.

I strode briskly through the parking lot, swerving through parked cars and a few straggling merch crewman lolling about with the equipment as they loaded the vans before we left for the next venue in an hour or so. In an hour, I would be forced back into the awkward tension filled silence in that bus because in an hour, Emily would be gone and Josh would be a sour bitch, for lack of better word. As much as I hated hearing them when they were together, I'd rather she stick around. Josh was a completely different person when she wasn't with him. When she was with him, he was happy and tolerable. But the second she left, he was yelling and stomping around, throwing things everywhere. He wasn't happy, not at all. He'd hardly ever leave his bunk, unless we had a show or interview. He'd never just hang out with us anymore. Hell, he never even talked to us, unless we did something to piss him off and then in that case he would yell until he couldn't anymore and then he'd stowaway in his bunk for the rest of the time.

But, in all honesty, I didn't blame him.

He must've felt the way I did when he was around. It was awkward and full of tension. We both didn't handle with that very well.

Which was probably another reason we didn't get along towards the end. He'd constantly pick fights with me and we'd be screaming all night until we went to bed, mad at each other and fuming. They were stupid fights, over the littlest things...but nevertheless, it happened.

I slowly down to a slow walk as I approached the bubbling creak. I knelt down and gently dipped my hand into the cold water. It was really cold, a harsh shock to my skin but I didn't care. I needed it. I scooped up a little of the water and splashed it in my face, soaking the top of my shirt and the hair surrounding my face now stuck to my face as the water dripped off landing on my jeans, making deep, dark spots as the water soaked into the fabric.

I remember the night of our break-up like it was yesterday, even though it was two years ago. It felt like it was just yesterday.

***

"Josh, you're being ridiculous."

"Shut up, Hayley. You don't even know what you're talking about."

I let out an exasperated laugh and threw my hands up, "You just don't give up, do you? I told you. It was an accident."

"So, you "accidentally" forgot to tell me you were working late?" he inquired, stupidly using air quotes.

I rolled my eyes, "No, I TOLD YOU I WAS. I swear to God you don't listen to me anymore. You always-"

"No, whatever. Save your breath. I don't want to hear it. God, can't you do anything right? You're always fucking something up. What the Hell is wrong with you?"

"What's wrong with me?"

"I didn't stutter, Hayley."

I narrowed my eyes at him as he turned his back to me starting to prepare his coffee. "Stop talking down to me. I'm not stupid, you know."

"Oh, well that's news to me. You're always forgetting things, Hayley. It's getting annoying. I'm not going to follow you around reminding you about this and that. You're a big girl. Don't come crying to me when you fuck things up."

"Are you fucking kidding me? I asked you once, Josh. One fucking time for one fucking favor and you can't do one fucking thing for me."

"Hey, that's not my problem."

"You expect me to let my sister stand outside waiting for me a night alone for hours when I was running late?"

"I went through that, too. She can tough it out."

"I can't believe what I'm hearing right now."

"You better believe it, honey."

"Don't you honey me. Josh, seriously, was it that hard to pick up my sister for me?"

"Yeah, as matter of fact, it was. I'm busy, Hayley. I don't have time to run around fixing things for you because you can't seem to handle all this crap you do. You're working yourself too much. It's going to wear you out."

"I'm sorry I actually have things to do everyday that I can't just blow off because there are other things I want to do. Josh, I don't get you. How can you stand here and tell me that I'm wasting my time doing foolish things when YOU'RE the one doing that. Not me. You're just too stupid to see it."

"Shut up, Hayley."

"No! Josh, what happened to you? You're always so bitter and angry. We can't even hold a conversation without you getting upset at me and yelling. Why are you like this?"

"I've grown up, Hayley. Maybe you should, too."

"Taking out all your anger on someone who is smaller than you isn't growing up. It's wrong and hurtful. Don't you realize what you're doing?"

"I know what I'm doing."

"Then why do you keep doing it? I thought you cared about us...it's like there isn't an us anymore."

"You're making a big deal out of this. It's nothing really. God, girls are always so overdramatic about every little thing. Calm down, will ya?"

"No. I won't calm down. I'm not being overdramatic either. You're just being narrow minded and inconsiderate."

"This is who I am, Hayley. Take it or leave it. If you don't like it, you're more than welcome to leave."

"You're unbelievable."

"Oh, good one. You really got me with that," he said sarcastically.

"You really don't give a shit, do you?"

"Took you long enough."

"So, that's it? You're just giving up? You're letting me go just like that?"

"Hayley," he sighed turning around to face me, the look on his face made me want to cry. "Sometimes...people just...drift apart. People change and so do their feelings. You're not the same person you were years ago, at least mentally. It's just...I don't know. The spark isn't there. I don't get the same feeling I used to when you're around. Please don't take this the wrong way, but quite frankly, you get in the way. You're annoying, Hayley."

"Don't take this the wrong way?" I roared, finding my anger hurtling his way at full force. "Are you kidding me? What other way could I take a statement like that? Of course I'm going to be hurt by that."

"Hayley, I'm sorry."

"It's a little late for that, Josh," I noticed him grimace at the tone in my voice when I spat his name.

"I didn't want it to happen this way."

"Oh right, you'd rather call me and break up with me."

"I was thinking more of texting."

At this point the tears were rolling at an unstoppable rate down my face. "How could you? How could you be so cruel? Josh...I....I loved you," I whispered and a quiet hush fell over the house.

"Loved?" he finally uttered in a whisper to match the mood, I could hear a disapointment in his voice.

"Yes, as in DID. I get it, Josh. I mean nothing to you. I'm just a nuisance, a bore...I understand."

"Hayley I never meant to-"

"Well you did. I just...I can't deal with your hot and cold anymore. I can't take it anymore. I've tried so many times to fix us but you don't even try. It's obvious we aren't meant to be. So I'll do you a favor. Goodbye, Josh. Have a fabulous life."

"Hayley, don't do this to me."

"Oh so it's ok for you to do this countless times to me but the second I do it to you, it's not? Don't act like I'm the bad guy here. We all know it's you. It always has been. Fuck you, Josh. I'm done."

"No, you don't get to end this."

"Really? Because it looks like I did."

"No! You don't because I'm breaking up with you. Hayley, get the hell out of my house!"

"With pleasure!"

"Good!"

"Great!"

"I never loved you anyway."

At that, I stopped.

"What?"

"You heard me. I said I never loved you, Hayley."

"I..." I trailed blinking back tears. "Go to Hell, Josh." And that was the last thing I said before slamming the door with a loud thud.

***

I knew he was lying. I knew him better than he knew himself. But if he couldn't even be honest with me about how he felt, I didn't want to be with him. It hurts to know that someone you used to be so close with could turn on you with the drop of a penny. But who I was trying to fool? There was no way that my first crack at love would be my last. There was no way Josh was going to be the one I married. It was too easy.

But he will always hold a very special place in my heart. He was the first person I fell in love with.

I will never know why he lied to me, and it will always haunt me.

But he made it very clear that he wanted nothing to do with me.

I slapped angrily at the clear water, causing a tide of ripples to destroy the wreck of a reflection I call my own glinting off the glistening water in the misty moonlight.

Why did I even bother to try to save our relationship?

What was I fighting for?

Nothing.

...

 

"What did I tell you?"

Josh sighed loudly over the hum of the buzzing crowd that milled , muttering under his breath.

"What was that? I didn't quite catch it..." Josh lifted his gaze up to shoot an unamused glare in Jeremy's direction, only making him laugh a little. "Oh, c'mon. You can't tell me you didn't see it coming. I told you...a whole bunch of times. But no," he dramatized waving his hands around. "I'm Josh and I know everything and I'm not going to listen to Jeremy even though he's like the smartest dude EVER. But, nope. I know what I'm doing. That's why the exact thing I was told not to do, I do. Why? Because I'm stupid and-"

"Ok!" Josh shouted, feeling the blood pumping violently in his veins. "I think I get it. I fucked up, alright? Can we get over that? There's no need to drill it into my brain."

"Well, considering you didn't learn the first time, I'd say drilling it into your brain would be a perfectly good idea. Maybe then you might actually not think you're too cool to take advice that will inevitably be the right thing."

"I'm not in the mood for your sarcastic smartass, Jeremy. I've got too much on my mind right now," Josh let out in a heavy breath, rubbing his temples in circles in what was supposed to soothe him.

"Ah..." Jeremy nodded knowingly. "Hayley troubles."

"Goddangit!" Josh exploded, shoving his fist forcefully into the hard, stone countertop behind the bar, earning apprehensive glances from people seated on the bar stools at the opposite end. Despite the bass thumping in a deafening pitch, Josh could still be heard over the music. "Could you shut up for one second? You're like the freaking energizer bunny on speed!" With each second that passed, Josh seemed to grow more delusional, getting this mad look in his eyes; as though he were going insane. "And that doesn't help me, Jeremy! You'd think it would but now is not the time for jokes. But you keep going and going and going and going and going and going and-"

"Josh, that's enough," Jeremy cut him off, grabbing Josh firmly by the shoulders shaking him. "Snap out of it, man. You're starting to scare me. What's got you so worked up over this? It's not like you loved her..." he eyed his friend and noticed Josh avoiding making eye contact. "Oh dear God. You love her! Great! You're in fucking love with some girl you just met. Wonderful, Josh. You're really doing an awesome job with your clean slate. Do you remember what happened last time you-"

"I never said I loved her, you idiot. I just..." Josh sighed, groaning as he slumped against the bar letting his head fall into his hands. "Dude there's just something about her. I'm drawn to her. I have no idea what it is. She has this...look in her eyes, like she's hiding something."

"Are you sure it's not because she's mindblowingly drop-dead gorgeous?" Jeremy laughed, but meant every word.

Josh made a disgusted face, "No. I'm not shallow. Being pretty doesn't mean a thing if the person underneath all the glamour and designer name brands is a conceited, inconsiderate, cold-hearted, stupid bitch."

Jeremy smirked, elbowing Josh lightly, "You were doing so well with those fancy words and then you end with stupid bitch. Nice."

Josh shot him a pointed look. "I'm being serious. I just...I can't explain it but I know what I'm talking about. I can feel it whenever she's around. I know it's there."

Jeremy sighed, mixing a veterans drink pouring it into a magaritta cup tossing a tiny umbrella into the glass before sliding it across the countertop into the hands of it's owner. The man gave Jeremy a head nod and downed the drink throwing his head back.

Josh watched the man, his face scrunching up in disgust at the sight.

"You could be right," Jeremy said, glancing at Josh before he started to prepare another drink. His hands danced around rapidly as he carried out a few of the bartenders signature mixing moves and then he continued. "Or maybe she's just a mystery to you and that alone makes you that much more desperate to figure her out. You crave for her because you want to know more, learn more."

"That's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard....I think....That's not why I'm....is it?" Jeremy laughed at Josh's indecisiveness. "Stop laughing. This is a serious matter. Now I'm even more confused than I was to begin with. Thank you."

Jeremy grinned, slapping his hand to Josh's shoulder in a friendly punch. "You're such a drama king."

"I am not," Josh retorted. "I'm just...moody."

"Drama king."

"Moody."

"Drama king."

"Mood-oh crap!" Josh shouted, ducking behind the counter and sliding to the floor beisde Jeremy.

"What the Hell are you doing?" Jeremy laughed, watching his friend with bewilderment.

"Shh!" Josh insisted, telling Jeremy to keep quiet with a finger to his own lips. "She'll hear you. And then you'll give away my hiding spot!"

"What? Now I'm confused. Why the Hell are you hiding? You look like an idiot. This is so unprofessional, Josh," Jeremy looked at him in mock disappointment.

Josh rolled his eyes, "Stop looking down at me. She's going to see you."

"Who?" Jeremy asked stupidly.

Josh stared at him with an expression that said he was blown away by how oblivious Jeremy was. "Santa Claus," Josh said sarcastically.

"Oh really? Because I thought-"

"Who do you think it is?" Josh hissed but before Jeremy could muster a reply Josh answered for him. "Hayley, you idiot!"

Jeremy rolled his eyes with a shake of his head. "You've got quite the imagination."

"Shut up," Josh muttered, pulling his knees closer to his chest as he sat on the hardwood floor with his back pressed against the cabinets, as though he could even try to conceal himself anymore. The girl was short, surely she wouldn't be able to see over the counter let alone lean over enough to find Josh hiding from her. Then what would she think?

Jeremy saw a flash of red out of the corner of his eye and looked up slowly. A small, amused grin crept onto his face.

Sure enough, there was Hayley. She held her head high, striding confidently through the mingling patrons, greeting a few as she went. Her eyes were scanning the crowd and it was obvious she was on a mission searching for someone.

And guess who that was.

She must've felt Jeremy watching her and lifted her eyes up slightly and met his. His lips curved into a small, warm smile and she returned that, a wave of relief washing over her rosy cheeks.

Jeremy tilted his head slightly, trying to hint that Josh was there but only succeeding in confusing her. She let out a laugh, raising an eyebrow as she strode over, her hips swaying effortlessly with each step she took until she was right in front of the bar.

Josh noticed Jeremy silencing suddenly and watched him suspiciously. His eyes widened in half fear and shock when he heard a thud on the table and the cheery voice he longed to hear but at the same time, he was dreading to hear.

"Hey Jeremy."

"Hayley," he replied with a smile. "Can I offer you a drink?"

Hayley laughed, "Um..." she paused, racking endless thoughts through her brain, pursing her lips off center as she thought. "Can I just have a diet coke?"

Jeremy laughed, "Sure thing," Josh saw Jeremy half glance at him. Josh mouthed "No," over and over again at him, shaking his head and waving his hands telling him to not say anything. But Jeremy had other plans. "Hey Josh, you can stop hiding now. Hayley's here."

Josh let his palm smack loudly against his forehead, a heavy clap echoed off the walls surrounding the bar and he grimaced when he heard Hayley's voice again.

"Josh?"

He heard the hope dripping off her voice and he groaned silently, shooting Jeremy an evil glare as he shoved himself to his feet. He put on a smile when he laid eyes on Hayley and instantly lost his breath. Hayley giggled, waving at him, brushing loose strands of her auburn hair that fell in her face out of her eyes. Josh completely forgot anything and everything and simply stared at her, like a dumbfounded fool.

"Dude, are you gonna go say hello or are you just gonna drool at her a little longer?"

Josh sent Jeremy the infamous glare once more as Hayley giggled.

"You're going to pay for that," Josh threatened.

Jeremy rolled his eyes, "Just go talk to her. I know you're dying to be next to her."

Josh thwacked Jeremy over the head, thankful that Jeremy had decided to whisper that so that Hayley couldn't hear as he snuck around towards the swinging door exiting the bar.

He felt his heart beating loudly in his chest and could hear it pounding in his ears as he approached her. That smile alone drove him crazy. He wanted so badly to be with her.

"Hey."

"Hey yourself."

They stood there, neither of them saying a word, simply staring at each other like middle schoolers with huge crushes....but that wasn't too far off from reality, in Josh's case. He did like her, a lot.

But then the dreadful words he was told as a warning flashed in his mind.

"Um..." he began, biting his lip nervously, not really knowing where to start.

"What's wrong, Josh?"

Josh looked up, instantly meeting her eyes and regretting doing so. They were laced with concern. That was going to be his downfall. He cursed to himself, mentally and let out a small sigh. "I need to tell you something, Hayley."

"Ok," Hayley said slowly, confused as to where this was going. "Should we step out into the hall? It's quieter," she suggested, guessing that this was a serious matter.

Josh nodded and unconciously grabbing her hand leading her out into the hall. The temperature dipped slightly as they stepped through the door and it shut gently behind them with a soft thud. Josh turned around suddenly, letting go of her hand.

"I...um....I don't really know how to say this," Josh stalled, letting out a nervous laugh. He scratched at the back of his neck.

"Just say it. You know you can tell me anything."

Their eyes met sharply again and there was that familiar spark. Was Josh the only one feeling that or did she feel it, too? Why was she acting like they were the best of friends since childhood.

Josh nodded and took a deep breath but didn't say anything.

"Josh."

"Hayley."

Hayley gave him a stern look, "Stalling isn't going to make this any better. I'm sure it's not that bad. You're acting like it's the end of the world," she laughed a little, but she caught the serious look in Josh's eye and that laugh faded quickly. "I don't like where this is going."

"Look," Josh started. "There isn't an easy way to say this. So I'm just going to go ahead and say it. Hayley, I think it's best we... not talk anymore."

Hayley stared at him, her eyes full of hurt and confusion and Josh thought he saw tears forming. "What? Why? What do you mean?"

Josh sighed, "Hayley, I'm really sorry."

"How could you? How could you judge me like that? You don't even know me. I'm not like everyone else."

"Hayley, believe me. This isn't my choice. I want-"

"Save it, Josh. You're wasting your breath when no one is listening," she shook her head and Josh could see the tears starting to flow. "I thought you were different."

"Hayley, I just-"

"No! Whatever, Josh. I get it. I'm just a silly little rich girl. I'm too snobby for you, ok. Stop lying trying to save your ass."

Hayley turned around and headed down the hall.

"Hayley! Wait!"

But he was too late. She was gone and out of ear shot.

"Your dad doesn't want me to be around you," he said quietly to himself.

He just gave it all away, in turn hurting someone geniune and innocent, because of his job.

What did he just do?

 

 

 

By the time his lunch break rolled around, Josh was completely exhausted. All he wanted to do was collapse in his bed and sleep. Instead, he slipped his way through the various people milling about the entrance of the casino doors, mingling among one another, trying to keep his in-ear from falling to the ground. He was getting instructions on a suspicious suspect wandering near the front gate outside the hotel.

He rolled his eyes as he stepped through the revolving doors out into the blazing, sweltering sun catching word of a brewing argument. The wind swirled violently suddenly swooshing a wave of unpleasant aromas Josh's way. He cringed in recognition of the smell.

"Great," he muttered to himself, before approaching the two men. "Gentleman, you do know you're loitering, right?"

The two broke out of their intense glares to stare, dumbfounded at Josh. "What?"

Josh sighed. "You can't be standing here just for the heck of it. This is private property and you're trespassing, which is against the law. Are you planning on checking in at the hotel?" They shook their heads. "Cashing in at the casino?" Again, they shook their heads. Josh frowned, "You need to leave."

"You can't make us leave. This is a free country! We live in America!"

Josh shook his head lightly, pressing his fingers to his temples rubbing at them. He really wasn't in the mood for this. All he wanted was to get some food and relax. Not waste his time arguing with druggie idiots. This was cutting into his precious lunch hour.

"Just go. I'm letting you off with a warning. You're lucky I'm not getting security involved in this. I know they would definitely call the cops and you would be in some deep shit."

"We aren't leaving."

"If you don't leave, I WILL get security because honestly, I don't give a fuck about y'all. I just want my lunch break and you idiots are taking that time away from me. Now, I'm going to ask you one more time and if you don't-"

"Alright, alright! Jeez. No need to get all uptight about it, man. We're leaving. God."

Josh watched them slink off down the street, waiting until they had rounded the corner at the end of the boulevard before he turned back around heading back inside the hotel lobby. The cool burst of air spewed through the air condioner hanging right above the door was a Godsend.

The heat out there was just brutal.

He wiped as his forehead that was now glistening with droplets of sweat with the back of his hand as he unbuttoned his suit jacket pulling it off as he ran up the stairs. Within minutes, he had kicked open the door to his room and he carelessly tossed his jacket onto his bed, loosening the tie that wrapped like a cobra around his neck nearly choking him. He kicked off his classy shoes and tore open his mini-fridge sitting beside his luxiorious, extravagent bed pulling out an ice cold Coke. He snapped the tab off with a twist of his thumb and took a long, heavy chug feeling the frozen liquid slide down his throat.

And that's when he heard it.

"Farro, I need you in my office. Now."

Josh groaned loudly, kicking at the chest at the foot of his bed, cursing angrily when he felt a sharp jolt of pain rocket through his leg. He was more than annoyed.

Why couldn't people ever leave him alone? He was on his lunch break, which was already cut short by twenty minutes because he had to go deal with that disturbance outside and now he was needed in his boss's office. Couldn't he wait until AFTER lunch? He wasn't getting paid enough for this.

Josh scowled, throwing on his sneakers, throwing the door open shutting it noisily behind him with a loud thud that echoed down the hall. He strode quickly down the hall, through the maze of secret hallways until he came to the elevator shaft that led to the top of the building. He stepped inside and pressed the correct level and the door shut with a clang.

A few short seconds later, the doors shot open and Josh quickly stepped out heading down the familiar hall until he reached the door at the very end on the right. He knocked twice and waited until the series of locks on the door were unlatched and the blonde secretary poked her head through, giving Josh a warm smile. She opened the door wider, allowing Josh to step inside the room before she shut the door behind her. Josh turned to her, waiting for his orders.

"He's in a meeting but he wanted to have a word with you. He should be out shortly," she explained.

Josh let out a irritated sigh falling back into the plush couch to wait. It looked like he would miss his lunch altogether today.

His eyes traveled the course of the room to land on the old, ticking clock. The soothing sound was mesmerizing and Josh found himself lost in a trance staring at it, watching the hands move slowly around in a circular pattern.

He was so intrigued by this simple thing that he didn't hear the door creak open or Mr. Williams clear his throat.

"Joshua."

Josh jumped, snapping out of his daze to look at his boss. "Sir," he greeted, getting to his feet instantly. The smile on his face wavered and Josh grew nervous under the eyes of his boss. He could tell he was being watched like a hawk...like he was being studied. It was very uncomfortable.

"Let's go," was all he said before disappearing back into his office.

Josh gulped, shooting a nervous glance over his shoulder at the blonde. She smiled uneasily at him as she typed away furiously on her computer. Josh bit his lip slowly walking into the medium sized office. He couldn't help but look around him. Being in here always intimidated him. Mr. Williams wasn't a scary guy but the fact that he controlled Josh's every move and could fire him at any moment was a bit nervewracking.

The door shut with a soft thud behind him, scaring Josh. Mr. Williams chuckled when Josh turned around to stare at the door before he brought his full attention to the man sitting behind the desk.

"You're probably wondering why I asked you to come here," he began, watching Josh closely. Josh shifted from foot to foot, trying to remain calm but he couldn't help but fidget. It was how he dealt with his anxiousness. He barely managed to nod. "Well, I'm sure you've heard that my daughter is here."

"Sir, I assure you that I have only spoken to her twice and that was it. My intentions are strictly business. I respect you, sir."

Mr. Williams watched Josh, curiously, noticing Josh's nervousness. "That's rather funny because I have heard a few things about you."

"I would never hurt her, sir. I would never do anything of that manner to a girl. I assure you."

Mr. Williams frowned, "I'm sure you wouldn't, but I can't just trust anybody. Not even you. You're a guy and all guys think about the same thing. That one thing is what they want and they will do anything to get it."

"I would never...sorry," Josh shut up noticing the sharp glare he was getting, looking down at the ground. He could feel the tension rising between the two.

"She's a beautiful girl, isn't she?" Josh nodded shyly. Mr. Williams laughed, "I'm not going to get mad if you agree. Calm down. I just wanted to warn you that she is off-limits. But, I'm sure I won't have problems with you," he clamped his hand on Josh's shoulder and Josh shook lightly from the sudden gesture. "You're a good kid, Farro. I have faith in you. Just like I believe in Scott."

At the mention of Scott's name, Josh looked up. "S-Scott?"

Mr. Williams nodded, "Yes. He's a wonderful boy. He's too good for my daughter. She's blessed to have someone like him in her life. She's like his princess. He spoils her rotten," Josh absentmindedly frowned but Mr. Williams didn't notice. "He's always looking out for her. And that brings me to my next point, he actually mentioned you."

"What?"

"He said that I should keep my eyes on you, that you were bad news. I told him he was being ridiculous but I can't be too careful. Like I said, I trust you. You've never done me wrong and you always have the best intentions. You've never done anything bad in your life. Sometimes, it's a little too hard to believe."

Josh laughed nervously, "That's how I was raised, sir."

Mr. Williams nodded, "But I can never be too safe," he paused, and judging by the look on his face he was forming a sentence in his brain. "Joshua, I'm only going to tell you this once," Josh gulped silently and nodded, his eyes glued to the window behind his boss. He couldn't even bring his eyes to met his. "Stay away from my daughter."

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I don't really like this chapter. It sucks. The next chapter will be longer. I promise :)

 

 

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This is for Becky! :P

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"So you punched some dude?"

Josh sighed as Jeremy trailed behind him, following him as he ran about the casino searching for papers he needed before he could open the doors for guests. "That's what I said, isn't it?"

"That was not a good move."

"Whatever. I wasn't going to let the poor girl get taken advantage of regardless of whether he was her boyfriend or not."

"You're meddling in the wrong business, Josh. I told you, told you twice. You don't listen. It's going to get you into trouble and I'm not going to help you."

"Fine, I don't need your help. I can manage on my own. I don't need you playing referee in my life."

Jeremy sighed, "That's not what I meant. I'm just looking out for you, is all. I know when you crush, you fall hard and they break your heart. You don't need to go through that again. I'm just advising you to stay away from the girl. She's your boss's daughter, isn't that reason enough? You know if you screw her over, she could go crying to daddy and your ass will be unemployed back out on the streets. Do you want that?"

Josh laughed, shaking his head as he copied a few numbers from the papers inside the binders locked up underneath the podium. "I took the girl to the hospital because she broke her ankle. I wasn't just going to leave her in the middle of the hall for that pyscho to come back and hurt her even more. She was lucky all she got was a broken ankle with the way he was flinging her around. She was like a freaking rag doll, Jeremy. You should've seen the look on her face. I did her a favor. There is nothing wrong with being helpful. If anything, her father will be thankful I saved his little girl."

"You forgot the whole punching someone thing."

Josh rolled his eyes, "Big deal. He deserved it. It's not like that was his son. It was his daughter's boyfriend, who, for the record, I highly doubt likes the kid anyway. He's the typical bad boy, two-faced jock. He's nice to her parents faces but behind her backs he uses her like a pawn. I bet he's using her because her parents are rich. I wouldn't doubt it. I bet a lot of people have tried to."

"I don't know, Josh. Just...be careful. Don't get in over your head."

Josh frowned, pausing in his work to stare out at nothing. He shook his head, glacing at Jeremy. "You should've seen the look on her face. It was full of fear and hurt. Something is fishy about the whole thing."

Jeremy nodded. "True, but I don't think you realize what you're doing."

"I'm being a good person."

"You're a good person, of course. I didn't say you weren't. But you're also misleading her. She's a girl. You know girls read into simple things and think it's something it's not. You're sending her under the radar signals. You can't do that."

Josh stared at Jeremy a moment longer before a small grin appeared on his face, "Are you sure you're not a girl undercover?" Jeremy rolled his eyes. "You sure know a lot about how the mind of a girl works, it's a bit suspcious." Jeremy thwacked Josh over the head with a packet heading across the room to his station behind the bar.

"You're weird."

"You know it's tricky! How do you know that?"

Jeremy avoided making eye contact with Josh, keeping his head down low enough so he couldn't see him, but he couldn't hide the smile planted on his face. Josh watched him with a smirk before looking back down at his pile of papers. He had a long day ahead of him. He was on bouncer duty, meaning he had to approve and deny people at the door based on the requirements and qualification policies that ran the casino portion of the hotel.

"Farro!"

Josh froze, his eyes widening a bit as he kept them glued to the paper. He was just imagining that voice. There was no way.

"Josh Farro."

The next thing he knew, the adorable little red-head who seemed to torture his mind every waking second was standing beside him with a misheivious smirk gracing her flawless face. Josh could see the remains of the bruises faintly but she did a fairly well job keeping them hidden underneath her bangs. Her sparkling smile distracted Josh from staring at her scars, and it in turn made Josh smile.

"I bet you didn't know I knew your name, did ya?" she teased, her flirty manner was driving Josh insane in every way possible. He knew he couldn't like her, but he was having a hard time resisting it. She was just so darn likable. Who DIDN'T like her? The way the toothy grin fell on her face formed dimples.

Josh felt eyes on him and glanced over to find Jeremy giving him a pointed look. He rolled his eyes giving his full attention back to Hayley. She shot him that grin over her shoulder as she hopped up onto the table across from him.

Josh noticed the brace around her ankle. "You're not-"

"I don't want crutches. It brings unwanted sympathy and pity. I don't need that. I don't like being the center of attention," she swung her legs idly, looking down at the ground. Her face contorting slightly as she frowned.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to-"

"No, it's ok," she lifted her head up suddenly, that familiar smile dancing on her face. "I know you were just asking. It's just..." she sighed, she bit down on her lip and looked down suddenly. Josh stopped everything he was doing to watch her. She was acting awfuly fidgety...as though she was hiding something. "Nothing. I said too much, anyway."

Josh didn't press any further. It wasn't his business, but his curiousity was growing.

"So, did you have fun last night?" she asked, sounding cheerier than she had two seconds ago. She lifted her head up flipping her hair in annoyance looking expectantly at Josh.

"Um...."

She laughed, "I meant before that." Josh stared at her, his mouth hanging slightly ajar and confusion ran through his features. This only made her laugh more. "You aren't as stealthy as you think," Josh silently cursed himself as the cutesy, flirtacious grin reappeared. "I saw you staring at me."

Now Josh's jaw fully dropped open and Jeremy chuckled in amusement before shutting up but he kept laughing silently.

"I was not," Josh lied, trying to avoid her eyes.

She rolled her eyes, "You were, too. You were so obvious."

Josh scoffed, "I was working, you know, like I told you. I work for your dad, remember?"

She smirked, "Yeah if drinking champagne is considered working these days then sure, you were working."

A loud snort of laughter and they both looked over at Jeremy. Noticing this, he looked up and cracked a small smile. "Excuse me," was all he said before he slipped quietly through the front door; the shrill buzz of conversation outside the door filled the quieted air until the door shut with a soft thud.

"I was working," he insisted, their eyes met sharply, intensely. The two of them stared into them as though they read speak  through their eyes.

"You were working," she said quietly.

"I was not-wait...what?" Josh cut himself off abruptly, his eyes wandering her face looking for some sort of explanation.

She slipped off the table, her feet landing with soft patter on the floor and Josh saw her cringe from the force of the fall on her ankle. But she fought through that. "You know what I said, Josh Farro."

"I'm just...confused. Why are you-"

"It's ok. Some things don't need a reason. You just..." she paused, seeming to be racking up her thoughts in her mind. "know."

"You just confused me even more," Josh said, making her laugh unintentionally.

Her laugh faded until only a small, sad smile as on her face. "Thanks," she rolled her eyes seeing Josh's face twist with even more confusion. "I owe you," she replied honestly. "You saved me."

"You don't owe me anything."

"Don't be ridiculous. I could be dead if you hadn't showed up and you know it. I OWE YOU," she said, sternly.

"I'm not going to take anything you give me."

A sly smirk crept onto her face and Josh knew he was in for it. "I never said I was going to give you something. I can be sneaky, you know, a lot better than you."

"Oh really?"

"Yes, really."

"You are the most confusing person I have ever met."

Hayley laughed and Josh felt a smile tug at his lips.

"I'll see you around, Josh Farro."

And just like that, she snuck through the door into the vast hotel leaving Josh standing alone, with a smile.

 

 

 

 

At the end of the night Josh strolled lost deep in thought down the hallway. He had a stumble to his step, though he wasn't drunk. Just slightly disfunctional, from a few too many glasses of wine. Wine hits you faster than hard alcohol or beer, it's much stronger. But Josh made sure he kept a tally. He didn't want to get drunk off his ass, he wasn't into that.

But after the news Jeremy dropped, Josh found the wine tasting a little sweeter and less bitter. He drank it with ease, not allowing himself to become a drunken fool. He had his share in one night alone back in high school to last a lifetime. He hated it and vowed to never let it happen again. He didn't like who he had become that night, he wasn't himself. And he acted like an idiot. It was unattractive.

He slowed down quite a bit, not really watching where he was going. He was in no mood to sleep, the night was still young and he was in one of the craziest cities in the country. He'd have to be out his mind to call it a night this early.

He strode aimlessly throughout the halls, noticing couples hanging off each other attached at the lips not really aware that they where in the middle of a hotel hallway and not inside the safety of their bedroom. It was obvious they had drunk themselves into this state, their clothes were wrinkled and slightly off-centered with their fingers tangled into each other's hair falling against the wall.

Josh stepped by them heading down towards the main lobby. There was a Starbucks located on the first level and he could really use a drink right now. One that didn't include alcohol.

Just as he rounded the corner, he caught wind of an argument. He stopped in his tracks upon hearing the voice and backtracked a few steps to ensure that he was hidden from view. He gulped, running his lip over his bottom lip that had cracked upon due to it's dry state and bit down hard on it. He felt a sharp pain shoot through his mouth but he ignored it.

"Please, just leave me alone."

"Baby, c'mon, you know you want me. And lookie here, I want to you. I don't see what's the big deal."

Josh furrowed his eyebrows, feeling anger rise in his blood.

"I don't want-" there was a nervous yelp and a heavy thud against a wall that echoed in Josh's ear.

Josh didn't even have to think twice about turning the corner. The loud, electronic ping sounding from the elevator signaling it had reached the floor before the doors swung open. Josh caught a glimpse of the back of a man's head before it disppeared inside the elevator. Josh picked up his step, not half sprinting towards the elevator. He was not going to let this happen to her, whether he should be talking to her or not. He knew when someone was up to no good and he wasn't going to just ignore that because Jeremy told him it was bad news to mess with her. The door to the elevator had nearly shut when Josh stuck his arm inbetween, grunting from the force of the door slamming into his arm but he with-held from groaning. He pushed the door slightly to the right, just enough so that he could slip inside into the elevator.

It was a miracle Josh could think this quick considering the amount of alcohol in his system.

He could feel eyes on him, knowing that whomever had been planning to do things to the girl was pissed that Josh had barged in. He ignored that, a goofy, lopsided grin formed on his face as he pressed a random room number that was purposely after the level they were going to get off at.

"Excuse me."

Josh could hear the annoyance and anger in the guy's voice and half glanced at them. His eyes automatically landed on the girl, and he knew right away she was terrified. Her bright green eyes were wide from fear and he could see her trembling as this man pushed her up against the side of the elevator not caring about her well being at all. She didn't say a word, her eyes said it all.

"Can I help you?" Josh asked, casually, despite the tension rising in the small, cramped elevator.

"Cut the shit dude. What are you doing here? Couldn't you have waited for another elevator? We're a little busy here," he tightened his grip on the girls hand causing her to whimper and hold back from crying out in pain. Josh saw the pain in her eyes. She shut her eyes, trying desperately to not cry, but a single tear slid down her cheek, dropping onto her dress instantly soaking into the fabric.

"I'm sorry?" Josh said, although he wasn't.

The guy scowled turning back to the girl. "Hey, what are you crying about? Big girls don't cry. Suck it up," Josh couldn't help but stare as he shook her making her head thump into the metal wall of the elevator behind her noisily.

"Scott, stop," she pleaded in a voice barely above a whisper.

"You love me don't you?" she gave him a small nod. "Don't you? Answer me!" he roared, his nostrils flaring up with anger.

"Yes!" the girl squeaked, now with tears filling in her eyes. "I do but not when you're like this. I don't want to-"

"Shut up and get over yourself. You're going to love this," a sickening grin formed on his face and he leant forward pressing his lips against her neck.

Josh noticed her squirm beneath him and his heart went out to the girl. But he remained glued to his spot on the opposite side of the elevator.

The girl whimpered quietly and the elevator came to an abrupt halt, the deafening ping rang in the air. A low chuckle emitted from Scott's lips, "Your daddy isn't here to save you now." He wrapped his hand tight around her wrist and yanked her after him stepping out of the elevator.

Josh stared in horror as he watched the girl get thrown around like a rag doll. She looked so helpless and lost.

The next thing Josh knew, he hopped off the elevator just as the doors started to shut and followed them. Scott was being rough with her, way too rough. Josh knew what he was going to do to her, whether she knew the guy and loved him or not, he knew what he saw.

The girl yelped once more as Scott jerked her, and Josh heard a loud crack. The girl collapsed to the ground, holding her ankle, biting down on her lip.

"Get up you lazy bitch," Scott leant forward, struggling to pull the girl to her feet, completely ignorant to the fact that she just broke or twisted her ankle.

She let out a wretched, pained cry and Josh was right over there.

"Let her go."

Scott whipped his head around to glare at Josh, his eyes shooting venom.

"You," he snarled, his lip curling up slightly showing his teeth. "Screw off. This has nothing to do with you. Mind your own business."

"I'm not stupid. I know exactly what you're doing and I'm not going to let you."

"Who the hell do you think you are? Some kind of God or something? I can do whatever I goddamn well please. Now screw off!"

"No."

Scott let go of the girls hand letting her slump against the wall feeling weak and battered, to stand up straight as though he were challenging Josh.

"Listen punk. You better mind your own business. I just want to spend time with my girlfriend. I don't need you," he shoved Josh back forcefully, making him stumble and sway a little. "barging in here judging us and telling me what I can and can't do."

"You mean to tell me that you can't see your hurting her?"

Scott scoffed, "What? I am not. You're ridiculous."

"Scott....you are-"

"I said shut up, didn't I?" Scott twirled around shooting a glare at her, shutting her up instantly. He turned back around to look at Josh again. "Why don't you go off somewhere and leave us alone?"

"And leave her alone with you?" Josh questioned, incredulously. He let out a laugh. "I don't think so."

Scott narrowed his eyes at Josh. "You really shouldn't do this."

Josh smirked, "Oh, but I really should."

Before Scott could register what was happening, Josh brought his arm back and swung, slamming his fist right into Scott's jaw.

Scott stumbled back, in a slight drunken daze, holding at his jaw that was hanging off hinge.

"You're going to wish you never did that."

"Am I really?" Josh asked, smirking.

"This isn't funny, punk. I will kill you."

Josh snorted, "Sure you will."

Scott gritted his teeth just as his phone went off. He answered it angrily, taking off down the hallway.

Josh watched Scott disappeared from sight. The sniffling brought him back to reality. The girl was wiping at her eyes, probably embarrassed that she was crying and Josh heard a hint of a laugh escape her lips. "You're an idiot."

He smiled softly at her and slowly knelt to her level. "That's ok. I'm ok with that."

Josh saw a smile tug at her lips but just as soon as it was there it was gone and she was grimacing and clutching at her now swollen ankle. "I think I broke it," she forced out in a whisper, shutting her eyes tightly trying to fight the pain.

Josh bit his lip, it broke his heart seeing her in this much pain. Without another word, he reached forward and brushing her bright auburn bangs out of her face, revealing a heavy dark bruise near her eye and a series of cuts lining her forehead. "Dang..." he muttered.

Her eyes fluttered open as he did that and their eyes met for the first time. "H-he's usually not like this. He just had a bad day and he...drank too much. Everyone makes mistakes."

Josh couldn't believe the words he was hearing. He had done this to her and yet she was DEFENDING him? What the hell?

"That's not right."

"He needs me."

Josh could hear the pleading tone in her voice and sighed. "I can't make you change. Plus, I don't even know you."

"I'm Hayley."

"Hayley," Josh repeated, finding himself lurred in by her eyes as the stare grew more intense.

"Are you gonna tell me yours?" she let out a half-laugh that made Josh laugh.

"Oh, right! Sorry," he apologized. "I'm Josh."

"Well, Josh...welcome to Vegas. Things get a little crazy here."

Josh's lips curved upwards in a tiny smirk, "I know. I work in the casino."

Hayley's eyebrows furrowed slightly and her lips pursed to the side and confusion swept through her features. Josh laughed, swooping his arms around her and picking her up. She gasped quietly, from the sudden shift in movement as her legs dangled dangerously in the air. Josh gingerly shifted her in his arms to lessen the pain she was enduring and her head fell against his chest. Josh felt a jolt run through him but quickly dismissed it. No, I can't be thinking like this. Jeremy just told me I couldn't. This was my boss's daughter.

"What are you doing?" she let out in a quiet breath.

Josh smiled down at her even though she couldn't see it. "I'm taking you to the hospital."

"Josh, I'm fine."

"You just said it was broken."

"I was exaggerating."

Josh rolled his eyes. "Someone needs to look at that ankle. It could be really serious."

He couldn't help but smile when he heard her sigh, knowing she gave in. "Fine. But just so you know, I'm not doing this because you want me to."

"Oh really, now?"

"Yes."

Josh shook his head, a smile still gracing his lips. "You're somehing else, Hayley Williams."

"That's what I like to be."

 

 

 

 

Today was the day. The day that would make of break Josh Farro's career. He was nervous, so nervous that he gnawed his bottom lip so hard that he split it right open. But he didn't care. Everything was at stake. Nothing had ever been this nervewracking in his life before.

He sat in the glamorous casino in the one of the most ritzy cities in all of the United States. He clutched tightly onto his chapagne glass, slowly taking a sip. He hated the taste and the second it touched his lips he wanted to spit it out, but he didn't want to draw attention to himself. He hated being the center of attention.

Yet, that was exactly what his job description called for. Outgoing, suave, intelligent, confident, conniving, the list goes on.

He sighed, the low murmur of his fellow co-works faded from his ears as they all exchanged words of a drink to celebrate a job well done. He slowly scanned the room, observing every nitch and surface that ran the length of the casino.

And that's when he saw it.

A flash of auburn caught his eye.

He stole a glance in that direction and let out a small gasp, completely blown away.

There was a girl, a year younger than he was, and she was absolutely beautiful. Her gorgeous auburn hair was falling loosely around her face; the dazzling smile on her face could light up the entire world. Josh found himself entranced by her. A half-smirk grew on his lips when he saw her eyes light up after she threw the dice onto the table, she squealed and clapped in delight as the crowd circling around the mahogany table rose in an uproar of cheers and cat-calls.

Josh couldn't take his eyes off of her, he was mesmerized by her. There was something about her.

"Josh."

Josh stared in a daze at the girl, completely obvlious to the world around him. All he saw was her.

"Josh."

The sharp tone in his friends voice drug him out of his daydream and he turned with an apologetic smile. "Sorry. I was just a little distracted."

Suddenly, there was a loud cheer from across the room. A familiar voice filled Josh's ears, he refused to turn around and slumped lower in his seat.

He caught sight of his friends grin as he snuck a glance over Josh's shoulder.

"Dude she's way out of your league."

"Who said it was a girl?"

The boy shot him a look that told Josh he was stupid. "When is it NOT a girl," he laughed. "I love you, man. But, I'm just trying to save you the hurt and pain. She's not going to be interested in you."

"Shut up, Jeremy."

Jeremy laughed, a rouse of disappointment overpowering every other noise in the bustling casino. Josh hesitantly looked back over across the room and cursed quietly when his eyes were immediately drawn back to the girl. But this time she had a small pout on her face and Josh found it adorable. He knew he shouldn't be judging her by her looks, that was low and usually misleading. But her eyes...there was a sparkle to them.

"Dude! Stop staring at her. She's gonna see you and you're gonna be deamed a stalker."

"I can't help it. She just looks..." Josh trailed, finally bringing his gaze back to Jeremy. He sighed, "I don't know. I can't find the right word."

Jeremy rolled his eyes. "I'm telling you. Don't waste your time chasing after her. It's gonna be a letdown."

Josh stared intently at his friend. Why was he so dead against Josh liking or even talking to this girl. Did he like her? "I'm starting to think you just want her for yourself."

Jeremy stared back at his friend with wide eyes. He shook his head. "No. Josh, I wouldn't do that to you and you know that," he sighed, casting a glance at the rest of their friends sitting at the table. They all seemed to be engrossed in some elaborate story. Jeremy leaned closer to Josh, motioning for him to do the same. Jeremy's voice dropped a few octives. "Josh...you can't be messing with her."

"Why not?" Josh asked, his voice was practically pleading.

"If she wasn't who she was, I would be all for it. I mean you know that-"

"Who is she?" Josh cut him off roughly.

Jeremy sighed, "She's Mr. Williams daughter."

"Fuck."

Somehow, Josh found his eyes traveling back towards the girl.

She just had to be the daughter of the world's largest Casino and Resort owner in the entire country; one of the wealthiest men in the nation, and the guy just happened to be his boss.

********************************************************************************************************

Ok, here's the deal. I'm going to run two stories on each account. Love's not a competition and Planecrashdreams on THISISHOWWELLDANCE. I'm going to finish LNAC first, then start updating Planecrashdreams. And on this account, will be Tangled Up and this story. Fair enough? I might not every day but I will try to a few times a week.

 

 

 

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“You better not walk out that door. If you do, I’m going to disown you.”

The tears welling in my eyes blurred my vision but I didn’t let his words get to me. I was done letting him control me. It wasn’t worth the pain.

I slammed the door with such a force I heard the echo of a thud and felt the house shake. I paused for a few seconds, the events that occurred over the past month flashing through my mind. I almost forgot what I was doing, a distant look clouding over my face. The angry, loud shouts from the opposite side of the door jolted me out of my thoughts.

Without a second glance, I hurried down the steps. I was so nervous. My heart was beating so loud I could hear it thump in my head, my feet dragged along the pavement as I stumbled down my walkway. My nerves were getting the best of me and I could hardly think straight at this point.

I was so embarrassed by my stragglish appearance I didn’t even bother to look where I was going. I was never very confident in myself. But then again, no one ever told me anything that made me feel wanted. I was torn apart by my own fucking father, night after night.

Hell, he wasn’t even my dad. He was my mother’s new boyfriend. He thought he could take over the parental authority in the house when my mother was out.

I had dealt with it for so long I forgot what things were like before we moved in with him.

A few lone tears trailed down my cheeks but I quickly wiped at them. I didn’t want people to see me crying. I hated sympathy, not wanting it. And besides, tears were weakness in Aaron’s eyes.

I let out a bitter sigh feeling the wind pick up, flipping my hair about me viciously. It slapped my face sharply, enough to make my skin sting upon impact.

I slowly headed down the street, taking all the time in the world. I was in no hurry. I heard the man. I was disowned. I couldn’t go back home. I walked in silence, the moonlight casting down from the sky illuminating everything around me and my sneakers slapped the wet pavement with an echo from the freshly fallen rain.

It wasn’t raining anymore but judging by the clouds overhead, it didn’t look very promising.

I strolled by street after street, taking note of my direction silently, and made my way across town into a familiar neighborhood. This neighborhood was a lot more welcoming than mine. The houses were more family oriented, each house had a fence, a tire swing, a porch swing, a pool in the backyard and a separate garage attached to the side of the house.

I felt like a stranger walking down the street, admiring each house that held a very distinct variation from the next. Even the smell was friendlier than my street.

A few rain drops splattered on my head, dripping down my face but I didn’t mind. In fact, I loved the rain. The sights, the sounds, the smells...everything about it. Summer storms in the south were beautiful, both mesmerizing and breath-taking altogether.

I let out a quiet sigh as I passed one house in particular. I stopped and tried to not stare at the house. But I couldn’t tear my eyes off of the front door.

I must’ve stood there for hours, simply staring at the door, willing it to open with my mind. But I’m not a magician. I can’t open the door with my mind.

Much to my surprise, the door swung open and warm, friendly, familiar laughter reached my ears. I felt my breath hitch in my throat when a figure stood in the doorway, still oblivious to me. They were still laughing about something else.

I kept my gaze fixed on the door, praying that he couldn’t see me. But who am I kidding? Who wouldn’t see me? I’m standing in the middle of the sidewalk staring at his house at night. That’s not creepy or anything.

He slowly turned towards the door, the light flickering off the porch light accenting his face.  And then he stopped.

Our eyes met but neither of us said a word. We stood there for quite some time before he finally broke the silence that fell between us.

“Hayley?” he croaked in a quiet whisper, shutting the door behind him.

I still didn’t say anything. But at that point, I felt the tears begin to form again and I begged myself not to cry. No, don’t cry. Not in front of him. I shook my head, unable to find my voice and utter the words I desperately wanted to tell him.

I watched as he crept softly down the steps leading up to his porch with a curious look planted on his face, his deep, chocolate eyes glistening in the dim moonlight as his eyebrows furrowed up as though he was asking a question without actually speaking.

By now, the tears were falling down my face at an alarming rate and it was nearly impossible to stop them.

“Hayley,” he let out softly and I didn’t waste a second. I launched at him, burying myself into his chest. I gripped tightly onto his sweatshirt clinging onto him as though he was my only chance for survival. He was a bit shocked at first, but relaxed and soon wrapped his arms around me tightly. I tensed a little underneath his arms. It felt weird for someone to actually act lovingly towards me. I wasn’t used to it. He noticed, shifting my weight slightly to make it more comfortable for the two of us and then planted a kiss on the top of my head.

No words were exchanged for the longest time. We simply stood there on the sidewalk holding each-other.

There was so much to say, I just didn’t know where to start. He knew how I didn’t get along with Aaron, but he didn’t know everything about our relationship. I wouldn’t tell him…I couldn’t tell him.

An exhausted, heavy sob left my lips and I pulled back slightly looking up at him through tear-streaked eyes. I shook my head again, still not speaking.

I looked down suddenly, feeling slightly intimidated by him, unable to meet his eyes. “I can’t do this,” I whispered. “I can’t fucking do this anymore.”

He tightened his hold on me and whispered, “I know.”

I froze, all of the thoughts that were circling in my head seemed to fade a little. I slowly lifted my head up to face him. He was looking down at me with a small, soft smile on his face and his eyes were glowing.

“Josh,” I barely managed to squeak in a whisper. “You don’t understand.”

Josh let out a quiet laugh, “Hayley, you aren’t very good at hiding things. I’m not stupid, you know.”

“I never said you were.”

“Still…I do understand.”

I shook my head, “No you don’t,” I insisted. “You don’t and you won’t.”

Josh sighed, looking up at the sky. He always hated how stubborn I was. We butted heads constantly and never really saw eye to eye, on anything. Whether it was the band or something completely different, we fought constantly. Yet, we were best friends. That was just how it worked.

“Fine, you’re right.”

“Exactly, because you will never…wait, what?”

Josh laughed quietly, brushing my tangled hair out of my eyes slightly, his eyes meeting mine softly, with an adoring look in his eyes. “You heard what I said, Williams. Don’t act like you’re surprised.”

I rolled my eyes, forcing a laugh. “You need to stop.”

“C’mere,” his lips curved upwards in a tiny quirky smile and he held out his hand.

I broke my gaze to stare at his hand. It seemed like ages but I hesitantly slipped my hand in his and looked back up at him.

“Josh, what are you doing?”

“You’ll see,” his smile tugged at his lips making it even larger. He pulled me lightly towards him and before long I fell in step with him as we walked down the street. Our interlocked hands swinging gently at our sides.

“I hate when you do this, Farro,” I muttered, glancing at the houses around us earning a low chuckle that emitted from his throat.

“It’s who I am. Take it or leave it.”

I rolled my eyes, “Sometimes I wonder about you.”

Josh stopped short, jerking me to a halt beside him since our hands were laced together. “I’m worried about you, Hayley. Honestly, I know something is up. You may be able to fool everyone else but I know something isn’t right. You act like you’re living in some dream world where everything is perfect and everyone gets along but I know it’s just an act. I can see right through it.”

I sighed, turning away. I should’ve known. He was my best friend, after-all. He knew me better than I knew myself. But then again, I don’t really know myself…at all.

“It’s just hard, too hard. I can’t deal with it anymore. It only gets worse. There is only so much I can take.”

“Hayley, look at me.”

I ignored him, starting to walk down the street.

“Hayley,” he said softly, I barely even heard him.

I stopped cold in my tracks. It was really quiet but I strained to hear some sort of noise. I heard Josh’s sneakers stomp the pavement as he walked towards me before stopping completely.

“Hayley, look at me.”

I shook my head and he lightly grabbed my arm turning me around.

“You can’t live like this.”

“I know! And I’m not! I’m not anymore! I’m done with this. I’m leaving. I don’t ever want to see this stupid place again. I’m out of here.”

“Are you-“

“Yes, Josh,” I cut him off, pointedly. I sighed a little. “I’m leaving…for good. He doesn’t care if I jump off a cliff, why would he care if I just up and left? He just disowned me, even though he’s not even my real father. I just can’t live here anymore. It’s only causing more pain and you know it. You even said that I’m living in a fairy tale world. They won’t care. They never do. My sisters will be fine….I’ll come back and visit but living here is just too much. I need to drive away, far away.”

“Running from your fears isn’t going to do any good.”

“Yes it will.”

“How?”

I opened my mouth to defend my reasoning but not words came out. I saw Josh’s lips form a small grin. I frowned at him, pointing a finger at him. “Wipe that stupid thing off your face.”

“You can’t even tell me how running away is going to solve anything, that just proves even more that it’s a stupid idea.”

“You’re stupid.”

Josh took a step forward, wrapping his arms tightly around me pulling me up against his chest in a bear hug before I could figure out what was going on.

“You know I’m right,” he mumbled into my hair.

I sighed, “Yeah….”

He slowly unwrapped his arms around me and took a step back, looking at me. “So what do you say? Are you willing to trust me?” he held out his hand again, waiting for me to take it.

I glanced a few times between his hand and his face before giving in. I frowned but slowly put my hand in his, I suspiciously met his eyes.

“C’mon,” he urged, guiding me down the street.

Nearly a half an hour later, we were back at my house and I groaned. “Josh, what the Hell?”

He laughed, “I want to show you something.”

He led me around the side of my house towards the window in my bedroom. The house was awfully quiet. Josh looked up at the window and then glanced at me.

“Is there a point to this?” I asked, highly confused.

“We need to go in your room.”

“Why?”

“Just do it.”

I rolled my eyes before getting a firm grip on the siding of the house, keeping my feet in the slots every foot up or so. Josh was right behind me. I fell through the window toppled to the floor with a groan and rolled over as Josh crawled through after me.

“Ok,” he sighed, turning his head to face me. “You need to find something that reminds you of him.”

I shot Josh a look that told him he was crazy.

He rolled his eyes, “I’m serious, Hayley. This will help you.”

I sighed, pushing myself to my feet.

Josh lay on the floor watching as I circled my room looking through my drawers for something that would remind me of Aaron. I still think the kid was crazy. Why would I have something like that in my room? As I passed my night stand, a picture frame caught my eye. I paused to stare at the picture. I reached forward, taking the framed picture gently in my hands.

I felt tears prick at my eyes again as I remembered the day the picture was taken.

It was Christmas, our first Christmas with Aaron. Everyone was so happy, even Aaron was. But that was also the first night that Aaron turned on me.

It was the first night he had yelled at me. It was the beginning of his tirade. That was five years ago. I had been living a lie for five years. My mom never knew. It would just break her heart. I never told a soul. Until now.

This was it. This was what I needed.

I turned to Josh. “I found it.”

“Let’s go.”

* * *

I heard the hum of waves crashing in the distance, the smell of sea salt only got stronger with each second that passed. I even heard a seagull caw overheard.

All signs pointed to one thing.

The beach.

Josh turned into the empty parking lot, pulling into a parking space and putting the car into the park. He cut the engine and silence consumed us.

Josh and I stared straight ahead of us. Josh moved suddenly as he got out of the car. I figured I should probably do the same and cautiously stepped outside into the night air.

Josh still didn’t speak as he walked across the parking lot over towards the boardwalk. I clutched the picture frame tightly in my hands and trailed quietly after him. The boardwalk creaked loudly beneath my worn sneakers and I thought it was going to snap in half, but it didn’t.

Josh headed down the steps and continued walking across the sandy beach, the wind was now whipping violently with a harsh, cold chill. I wrapped my hoodie as best I could around myself in an attempt to keep myself warm. But my teeth began to chatter anyway.

I didn’t want to complain so I sucked it up and followed Josh across the empty, darkened beach.

I watched my feet as I went, carefully placing one foot in front of the other, the constant sound of the roaring waves was soothing in my journey across the beach.

“Hayley.”

I looked up quickly to find Josh looking at me, expectantly.

“Are you ready?”

Somehow, I managed to nod at him and shuffled shyly beside him. He crouched down at his feet and it was in this time that I noticed a shovel and a pail at his feet. He grabbed the shovel and turned back to me, holding it out to me.

I slowly bent my knees, kneeling beside him in the soft sand, still holding the picture frame close to my chest. I wouldn’t look at Josh. I stared ahead of me at the sand.

I took a deep breath and looked over at him, he was still holding the shovel for me.

I shot him a weak smile and gently placed the picture frame in the sand.

“Bury the castle, Hayley,” he said softly. I whipped my head back to stare at him. “Dig yourself a deep hole to bury the castle.”

A hint of a smile tugged at my lips but I refused to let it break through. I gnawed nervously at my bottom lip and shoved the shovel hard into the sand. I pulled it back and upwards, making a tiny divet in the sand, pouring the remaining pebbles into the pail.

I could feel Josh’s eyes on me as I repeated these motions until I had a decent sized hole.

“Let’s bury the castle.”

I placed the picture frame into the hole, watching as the sand covered up the last of the picture until it was completely gone from sight.

I hadn’t realized I was crying until Josh placed his hand on top of mine.

“It’s ok, Hayley. I’m never going to give up on you.”

With watery eyes, I met his eyes and for the first time, I felt safe. His arms looped around me and he pulled me onto his lap, and kissed my forehead.

And that’s when I knew.

He loved me.

 

 

 

Chapter Ten

It had been exactly two weeks since we had gotten to Franklin and things were finally starting to settle down. For the entire first week, there was a constant knocking at Josh's door as familiar faces walked in, with smiles adorning their faces as they embraced me tightly.

It felt good to be back. Things hadn't changed much since I had left, the town was still as beautiful as ever and all of my favorite places were still standing. It was like I had never gone anywhere; everyone just picked things up from where I had left them.

I stared at my reflection in the bathroom mirror, lightly running my fingers through the bottom half of my hair as the orange color that used to shine vibrantly from my hair faded back to it's original strawberry blonde. I laughed to myself noticing the different tones and shook my head.

"Hayley! Are you coming?" I heard Josh shout from the living room and a loud uproar of laughter. A small smile tugged at my lips. It felt great to have a normal life again.

"I'll be right there!" I shouted back, leaning forward to study the freshly drawn eyeliner that was smudged slightly out of line from underneath my eye.

"Hurry! Zac's gonna eat all the food!"

"I am not! That was mean, Josh!" I snorted with laughter upon hearing Zac's indignant rebuttle reaching for the handle of the bathroom door.

And that's when I heard it. There was distinct sound of a twig snapping, the same noise you hear when you step on a branch snapping it in half. I froze, feeling a draft through the open window as the curtains flapped every now and then against the window frame.

I waited, fearing to make a sound. I held my breath, completely on edge straining to listen for another sound. After a few seconds of nothing, I glanced over my shoulder out the window.

No one was there.

I frowned, rubbing anxiously at my bare arms walking over to the window. I carefully placed my hands on the edge and peered outside.

Still no one.

That was odd.

I grabbed the bottom lip of the window and pushed it down with a slam, shutting the window.kk

I turned back towards the door when all of the sudden I heard the sound of glass cracking.

My heart begin to beat a mile a minute and I  quickly spun back around.

My eyes were glued on the window, as a single pebble was stuck in the middle of the window. The glass surrounding that pebble was cracked looking like it could shatter at any second.

I took a shaky breath, not taking my eyes off of the window reaching behind me for the knob of the door. I backed up slowly, nearly falling over, but I regained my balance and grabbed the knob tightly with both my hands. I threw the door open and practically ran into the hall, slamming the door behind me, feeling more flustered than ever. I stared at the door, endless thoughts swirling rapidly through my mind.

What the Hell was that?

"Hayley, is that you?"

I hesitantly tore my eyes off the door, "Y...y-y-yeah, it's me," I stuttered, praying they wouldn't hear the nervous tone in my voice.

"C'mon, girl! You're missing the party!" I smiled uneasily upon hearing Bekah's excited shout followed by a rouse of cheers from a few of my close friends.

"I'll be right there," I assured her.

As I headed back to my bed room, I couldn't help but stare at the closed bathroom door.

Something fishy was going on.

I nudged upon the door quietly and poked my head through the half-opened door. Both McKayla and Erica were soundly sleeping snuggled up tight underneath the covers. I smiled, relaxing a little as I stepped further into the room. A flash of white catch my eye off my bed. I grinned grabbing the head band and pushing it on my head. I shut the door softly on my way out and headed back out towards the living room where my friends awaited me. I glanced at the door, an eery feeling overcame me. I shivered, shaking my head trying to forget about that.

Tonight was supposed to be fun. I shouldn't be worrying over this. It's probably just the neighbors kid playing a prank on us...

As I entered the living room, I heard a bunch of different greetings but for some reason I couldn't get my mind off the whole bathroom incident.

It was too weird and too obvious to be coincidental...

I walked across the room, not really paying attention to anyone, my mind was too distant.

When I finally snapped back to reality, I instantly met Josh's curious eyes. He was trying to signal to me but I shut my eyes, and shook my head.

"Halyey, you missed it!" Taylor shouted, with a hint of laughter and I opened my eyes turning to look at him. Zac was glaring at him with what looked like bits of cake scattered in his hair.

I laughed, joining Josh on the tiny chair, squishing myself between the chair and his leg. It was a tight squeeze but I made it happen. "What did you do?"

"Well Zac thought-"

Taylor kept talking and everyone else added their commentary to the story along with Zac's denial of certain things when I felt a breath on my neck. I tensed up when I heard Josh's voice in a whisper against my ear, "What's going on?"

I with-held from turning to him and barely moved my lips in a reply, "Nothing." Keeping a smile on my face as I listened to the story unfold. Josh sighed and I knew he wasn't happy.

I don't know why I lied. I knew I shouldn't be lying, especially if this was who I thought it was. It was a very serious matter. I shouldn't be keeping it from him. But, I had already starteed to convince myself that it wasn't something to worry about.

It was probably just a kid playing a prank.

There was no way that this guy was still looking for me after 4 years.

******

A few days later, Josh and I dropped McKayla and Erica off at his parents house so Erica could hang out with Isabelle for the day. We took a stroll through downtown Franklin and I couldn't believe my eyes. I couldn't believe I actually left this place. Maybe Vegas had flashy lights and casinos but that had NOTHING on Franklin.

Josh acted like a tourguide pointing out a few of the new little bistros that had been added after I left. I instantly thought of Josh's dad. I bit my lip debating whether or not I should bring up the subject of his family's restaurant. It might bring back those memories that Josh wanted to forget. I watched him as his face lit up with each sighting of a landmark, he looked so excited and it brought a smile to my face. It really hit me how much I had missed this place, how much I had missed everyone...how much I missed Josh.

We continued our walk down the main sidewalk until Josh came to a short stop outside a small diner. I glanced up at the sign and squealed. Josh laughed as I launched myself at him in a hug.

"You remebered!"

"Why wouldn't I?"

I pulled back slightly and our faces were awfuly close. I tried to read his face but Josh was one of those people who you couldn't read like an open book. You really had to think. There was that same tone in his voice, he was saying one thing but there was a hidden meaning behind the words. I frowned, eying him.

Our eyes locked briefly but I stepped back, hisarms trailed around my waist as I slipped out of his reach. It was as though he didn't want to let go of me.

"Let's go eat," I said quietly, unable to look at him.

He sighed, stepping in front of me to open the door. I thanked him and entered the quaint little diner, the cool air wafted through the AC directly above the threshold of the building hit my face immediately refreshing my hot face.

Josh headed over to the counter to order us drinks and I slipped into the booth, admiring the single daisy sitting in a fragile vase in the center of the table. I always thought daises were gorgeous. They were my favorite flower, and so simple yet elegant. I was a sucker for simple things.

I sighed, half glancing though the blinded window watching as people walked by smiling and laughing. I let my chin rest in the palm of my hand.

"Hey."

I jumped, startled by the voice, turning to find Josh standing there with a bemused grin on his face. "Shut up," I mumbled, knowing what was coming next, but I couldn't hide the smile that toyed with my lips.

"I just got us some water for now," he told me, tossing the menus on the table. "But I'll be right back. I need to use the...you know. Ok, I'll be back."

I let out a short laugh, shaking my head as he walked off down the small corridor where the bathrooms were located.

I felt like someone was watching me. I knew I was being ridiculous and tried to focus on the menu in front of me. But that feeling only got stronger. I started tapping my foot on the floor to try and calm my nerves. It wasn't really working.

"Hayley?"

I got spooked yet again and dropped the menu noisily when a vaguely familiar laugh reached my ears. I slowly turned and let out a barely audible gasp. "Billy?" I whispered.

He ignored my question, instead his eyes roamed the extent of my body. I was growing more self-conscious by the second and casually wrapped my arms around my stomach. He had this smirk on his face, and it honestly made me want to throw up. He was eying me like a piece of steak.

"Damn, Hayley. Where have you been all my life?"

I was at a loss for words, shooting anxious glances over his shoulder praying that Josh would walk out.

Where the hell was he?

I yelped as he slid into the booth beside me, snaking his arm around my waist. I shivered beneath his fingers, feeling his cold hands graze the skin that wasn't covered by my shirt. He laughed quietly, almost maniac-like as he leant in towards my neck.

I squirmed against his grip but he was too strong. I always knew I broke up with him for a reason.

"Baby, where are you going? I missed you," I stared ahead of me, my eyes going wide in horror as he pressed his lips to my neck.

"Get off, you psycho!" I shouted, finding the perfect moment to shove him off me. I scooted away from him as far as  I could until my back hit the wall below the window. Fuck.

He crept closer to me and I shrinked lower into the seat, whimpering as he towered over me, trailing his hands up and down my legs.

"Get the fuck off of her!" I watched, terrified, as Billy was thrown off of me and Josh punched him square in the jaw. Billy stumbled back, holding at his jaw, not expecting that at all, slightly in a daze. "Didn't you learn your lesson last time?"

"Farro, you're just jealous I got to fuck her!" Billy shouted.

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. First off, that NEVER happened. And second off, was he seriously shouting that in a DINER? I peered over the booth and saw that the diner was empty except for one table where some guy was having dinner with himself. But he didn't see to take notice to the half brawl going on across the room. But then again, we lived in Tennessee...it wasn't too abnormal if a fight broke out. I slouched back into the booth, covering my ears with my hands. I always hated hearing fights.

Josh laughing bitterly brought me back to the situation first hand. "Nice try, Roberts. You really got me with that one."

Billy growled, clenching his fists as he glared at Josh. "You better back off, Farro. I saw her first."

"She's not some kind of fucking property! You don't own her!"

"That doesn't mean I can't have my fun without you getting in the way!"

"You need help, Billy."

Billy snorted, "So do you. Look at you," he laughed, gesturing towards Josh's appearance. I had to admit, he did look a mess. His hair was dishelved and he looked like he hadn't slept in days. "You're pathetic."

Josh rolled his eyes, "Whatever, Billy. Go home."

"No! This is free country. I'm allowed to do whatever I please. Which so happens to be Hayley."

Josh groaned, "For the love of God, what did I just say?"

"I don't fucking care! You're always ruining everything for me!"

"I'm just trying to knock some sense into you! You're too stupid to understand what I'm saying!"

"Fuck you, Farro!"

"Shut up!" I shouted, not able to take the fighting anymore. "Shut up, shut up, shut up!"

"Look what you just did, Farro!"

"What I did? Are you kidding me? This is all your-"

"Shut up!" I shouted once more, Josh looked at me, his eyes full of concern and he remained quiet.

Billy started laughing, "Good girl, Hayley. Tell him to shut up so that WE can be alone. Nice work."

"You sick fuck!" Josh shouted, throwing another punch at Billy. Their feet scuffled on the floor as they fought, trying to get a punch in here or there.

I didn't even try to stop them. It was obvious they weren't listening to me. Instead, I jumped to my feet and ran out the door. I heard Josh shout my name but I ignored him, bursting through the door our into the night.

I was too busy running that I didn't notice someone standing in the street. I ran right into them with a grunt. I slowly stepped back to apologize when my eyes met dark ones. He didn't say anything, he just smiled at me. I kept backing up, not taking my eyes off of him.

Oh holy fuck.

Without a hesitation I took off down the street. I heard the door to the diner open with a loud thud and then heard Josh shouting my name. I didn't stop and I didn't turn around. I couldn't risk it.

"Hayley!"

This could not be happening. No. It just couldn't, Josh had promised me. He promised! I trusted him.

I ran as far as the next block over before I collapsed onto the side-side letting the tears flow down my face so quickly I thought I could cry a rivers worth. Josh wasn't helping much, hearing his voice only made me cry harder.

I felt his arms collect my trembling, train-wreck self into his arms, pulling me close to him comfortingly. The tears had a mind of their own as they trailed rapidly down my face. I was sure my make-up was a mess, smudging down my face but I didn't care. I couldn't care about something like that, especially at a time like this. I couldn't stop shaking but Josh kept his arms securely around me, rocking his back and forth as he spoke soothing words in hopes of calming me down. But nothing could do that. Nothing could save me. Nothing.

"Josh-" I choked, holding onto his sweatshirt tightly.

Josh stroked his hands through my hair and kissed my forehead. "It's ok, it's ok Hayley. I'm here now. You're fine."

"No," I shook my head violently. "I'm not ok. And neither are you."

At that I felt Josh tense underneath me. "What are you talking about?"

"Josh...he's here," I whispered. "I just saw him and he saw me. He knows. He knows. He fucking knows I'm here!"

********************************************************************************************************

Hey guys! So this is really getting good, huh? Now, we just wanted to let y'all know that there WILL BE a sequel once this is done. It's not written yet but it's going to be awesome. Thank for reading guys!

:)

 

 

Chapter Nine

As we sat in our seats waiting for the plane to take off I got really nervous. The reality of everything set in. I tapped my foot anxiously on the floor hearing the rumble of the engine beneath us. My whole leg shook with worry and I couldn’t stop it. I was really going back home. To Franklin, the place I wanted to be but couldn’t be at the same time. I was told by government officials I couldn’t be there. I felt like a fugitive, breaking the law and all. They even knew it wasn’t safe there. I knew it wasn’t safe there. Hell even Josh knew it wasn’t safe there but he was making me come back home. Maybe he wasn’t looking for me anymore…but he still could be there. I was scared…no, scared was an understatement. I was terrified.

I didn’t realize I let out a small whimper until I felt a grip on my hand. I froze and glanced down at it, although I already knew who it was.

“I’m not going to leave you.”

I simply shook my head, unable to find the words to say. I knew he was trying to comfort me but those words meant nothing to me. In fact, those words only made me feel worse. I didn’t want Josh to get involved. I couldn’t live with myself if something bad happened to him because of me. And he’s already been through so much. A pang of guilt slapped me in the face as a realization dawned on me. His father was gone. And I wasn’t there for him. I felt horrible. Here I was playing this role in a sob story complaining about how rough life had been for me, and yet here was Josh. Someone who had actually lost someone dear to him and yet he didn’t say a word about it. I found out by accident.

What kind of person was I? I never wanted people to feel sorry for me but somehow I keep reminding them about how hard my life truly was. I was disgusted with myself. I blinked back the tears in my eyes. I was NOT going to let myself cry again. I was sick of it. I was better than that, I was stronger than that. Just like Josh was here for me, I was here for him.

I quickly grabbed his hand and entangled our fingers, I felt Josh’s head whip to look at me but I kept my eyes on our locked hands and ignored his stare. I squeezed his hand tightly.

“Attention passengers, we are just about to take off. A reminder, this plane is headed straight to Nashville, Tennessee. There will be no stops along the way. Safety first, so please buckle up. We are expecting a little bit of turbulence during the flight. There is a small disturbance in the sky but there is nothing to worry about. We’re scheduled to land in approximately three hours, as long as the skys remain clear. Please, put all of your loose belongings in the overhead compartment to ensure the safety of both you and the people around you. Take notice that the emergency exit is in the back of the plane as are the bathrooms. Thank you for your attention. Now sit back and enjoy your trip. Thank you for traveling with Delta Airlines.”

I cast a tiny glance out the window and saw us rolling slowly down the landing strip, picking up speed fast. I could hardly see it since it was so dark outside. The only flight we could afford was this one. It was nearly 11 o’clock at night.

“Haywee,” I turned to see McKayla’s tear streaked face. “I’m swcared,” she said, her bottom lip quivering.

“Don’t cry, baby. I’m coming,” I told her, ripping my hand loose from Josh’s. I felt his reluctance to let go but he didn’t try to stop me. I felt guilty immediately. I was a horrible friend to him, yet he still stuck by my side. Why did he? I quickly unbuckled my seatbelt and slipped into the seat across from me beside McKayla. Why she was sitting across from me, I honestly didn’t know. “Shhh, baby, it’s ok. I’m here now. We’re just-“ the plane suddenly began shaking viciously and a loud clanging sound filled my ears. I winced from the noise and wrapped my arms tighter around my little sister. “This is normal,” I whispered to her in assurance and kissed the top of her head. I pulled her closer to me.

I could still feel Josh’s eyes on me. I slowly lifted my eyes from the floor and met Josh’s eager, concerned ones. I stared at him, with a blank face. There was something off about him….something had changed. He had never been this attached to me when we were younger. I half frowned but quickly broke our stare to look out the window.

The plane jerked once more but then it was over. We were gliding high in the sky on our way home.

***

The constant rocking of the plane was comforting and enough to make you fall asleep. And that’s exactly what it did. I looked down on either side of me and saw both McKayla and Erica fast sleep with content smiles on their faces. I leant forward careful not to wake McKayla who was nestled up close to me and saw that Jeremy was also sleeping. I sighed quietly and sat back in the comfortable seat. I shut my eyes momentarily. This was stupid. I was NOT going to be able to sleep. My nerves are way too high. I opened my eyes and stared at the empty seat ahead of me.

How many more hours to go?

There was a soft pitter patter of rain hitting the window beside me as we flew at a steady pace late into the night. I slowly looked away from the window and my eyes drifted over to Josh. His eyes were closed and his arms were crossed firmly over his chest. His head was tilted slightly and I couldn’t help but find it adorable. As creepy as it was, I liked people watching. It was easier to do so when they were sleeping, that’s for sure.

“It’s not polite to stare, Hayley.” I stared with my jaw dropped at Josh. A small smirk found it’s way onto his face and his eyes fluttered open slowly before meeting mine.

“H-how…how did you know?” I asked.

He let out a soft laugh, shaking his head a little, his smirk fading into a soft smile. “It’s not that hard. You were my best friend, Hayley.”

Now it was my turn to smirk. “Am. I AM your best friend, Josh.”

We both sat there, slightly shy and embarrassed. It was a weird feeling, especially around Josh. I carefully slipped out of underneath McKayla letting her rest on Erica and snuck back to my seat beside Josh.

“Hey,” I said quietly, feeling a lot like a little girl with a crush on someone.

Josh chuckled quietly, “You’re too cute.”

I rolled my eyes, shoving him playfully. I snuck a glance around the plane, it was pretty dark for the most part aside from the dull lights lining the aisles and a few reading lights hanging above the seats of people who were simply enjoying a book at this hour.

“Excuse me,” I leant forward to peer around Josh at the sound of a feminine voice. A stewardess looked at us with a smile. I pulled my legs up on the seat, bringing my knees to my chest. “Would you be interested in something to eat?” she asked.

I politely shook my head, “No thank you, ma’m,” I gave her a smile.

“Actually…” I swung my head to look at Josh, letting out a laugh. The stewardess shared a glance with me and laughed, too. She didn’t look that much older than I was. And she looked exhausted; the poor girl. “I’m kinda hungry,” Josh admitted. “I’ll take anything.”

The girl smiled, “Sure. Take your pick,” she grabbed a tray from off the cart beside her holding it out for Josh to chose from. There was a sparkle in his eye as he looked over the various snacks in front of him. He was just like his brother. They ALWAYS had food on the brain. He settled on a bag of chips and a Twix bar. He thanked the girl and she shuffled quietly down the aisle, stopping to ask passengers if they wanted a midnight snack.

“You’re such a dork.”

He paused his munching, giving me a pointed look. “Yeah, keep that up and see if I share my snacks with you.”

“Oh gosh, no! Not food! What will I ever do?” I asked, sarcastically.

Josh snorted, “You’re so weird.”

“You love me.”

I saw Josh tense a little but I thought my eyes could be playing tricks on me. I was a bit overtired. He laughed, it sounded like he was nervous. “Oh yeah, Hayley, I SO do.”

I frowned, hearing the sarcastic tone in his voice. “Shut up, Josh.”

He rolled his eyes, taking a bite out of the Twix bar. “Whatever, Hayley.”

We sat there quietly; an awkward silence came between us. He was acting really odd. And it was beginning to bug me. Suddenly, I remembered the picture I found in his wallet.

“Hey Josh?”

“Yes, Hayley?” I took a deep breath, trying to figure out how to word this. “I…I didn’t snoop, so don’t take this the wrong way,” I noticed he stopped what he was doing out of the corner of my eye and immediately felt his gaze on me. “I found a picture of me in your wallet.” I hesitantly glanced at him. His eyes were a little distant but he said nothing. “Josh?” I asked meekly, my voice squeaking towards the end.

Josh sighed and shook his head, “It’s nothing, Hayley,” He looked back at his food and continued to eat.

“Why did it say SOMEDAY?”

Josh gently placed the bag of chips in his lap still not looking at me. “You’re my best friend, Hayley. And you left without a trace. Without a goodbye, without an explanation….I just…” he sighed, running a hand through his hair making it fall lightly in his face. “It hurt, Hayley. I never got a call, you never even TOLD me you were leaving in the first place, you never wrote me. I got nothing. It was like you cut yourself completely away from society. So I made a promise to myself that I would find you…someday. I missed you, Hayley. Don’t ever do that again. You know very well that if you do, I will travel the world to find you. I’m not letting you go that easily.”

Even as he spoke, there was something else in his voice, something I couldn’t put my finger on. But I decided against pressing for it. We were finally on good terms….but I wondered how long that would last. It seemed like every other day we got into some fight. We were never like this when I lived in Franklin.

“Josh,” I whispered. He finally turned to face me. “I’m sorry.”

He gave me a soft smile. “It wasn’t your fault, Hayley, none of this was.”

“But-“

“You did the right thing. You didn’t know he was going to do any of this.”

“I’m scared,” I whispered.

I felt Josh’s arms tower over me as he pulled me closer to him, my back pressed against his chest. He firmly pressed his lips to the side of my head kissing me. “I am, too….I am, too.”

***

"Hayley, grab your bag," Josh said, handing me the black duffel bag I had packed some clothes in. The boxes with all of my things were being specially delivered to Josh's apartment.

I took my bag in one hand and turned to see Erica holding McKayla, while Jeremy held his bag along with theirs. I smiled gratefully at him as Josh picked up his suitcase. We headed out of the baggage area and to where the exits were. Some people stood there, anxiously waiting for their friends or family to come through the doors. No one was waiting for us. Or so I thought.

I didn't see him at first - I was concentrating on Erica and McKayla - but then a flash caught my eye. It was a reflection of something made of metal...I glanced towards the source of light and stopped cold in my tracks.

I had known he would find me. I had known this was a mistake. Josh, Jeremy, Erica and McKayla continued walking away, ignoring me. The man stepped closer to me, the gleam of his knife now more obvious in the glare of the fluorescent lights.

"Josh," I whispered, my eyes focused on the man. Josh didn't hear me, he continued along, talking with Jeremy.

"Josh!" I said now, louder and more panicked. No one seemed to be able to hear me.

"JOSH!" I screamed, my bag dropping to the ground as the man roughly grabbed my arm, the knife pressed against my throat. Why wasn't security doing anything?

"Hello," the man said quietly. "Did you miss me?"

He grinned and drew his hand back before moving to stab the knife through my neck. I screamed.

"Hayley! Hayley!" a voice somewhere next to me called. I tried to move my head towards the sound, but I was losing vision. My throat was on fire. I felt the man's grip loosen on me and I fell to the ground, but I was quickly surrounded in a pair of arms that were very different; they were strong, but comforting. I opened my eyes. I was still on the plane, Josh's worried face staring down at me.

"Hayley," he said. I felt tears in my eyes, but begged myself not to cry. It had been a dream. Just a dream. My eyes met Josh's and I instantly launched myself against him, burying my face in his shoulder.

"What happened?" he asked, stroking my hair.

"I...I thought he had come for me," I whispered. I felt Josh's grip tighten around me. He held me for another minute before pulling away and looking me in the eyes seriously.

"I won't let him hurt you, Hayley. I promise," he kissed my forehead. "You believe me, don't you?"

I nodded slowly, realizing I did believe him. I knew he wouldn't let anything bad happen to me. He truly did care about me; something I wasn't really used to. He smiled and I wiped my eyes, getting rid of the tears that had formed, before smiling back.

***

I gripped the armrest on my chair as I felt the plane dip towards the ground. A crackling noise filled the cabin as the captain's voice came through the PA.

"Hello passengers, this is your Captain speaking. I would like to inform you that we are about to land in Nashville. It is currently 62 degrees, rather chilly. I'd like to remind you all that Nashville is two hours ahead of Las Vegas, so please set your watches ahead. If you are in need of assistance to get off the plane, please wait in your seat whilst everyone else leaves so a steward or stewardess can accompany you off. Once again, thank you for traveling with Delta Airlines."

I turned to Josh, who was watching me. He took my hand and I smiled at him, but I felt the plane dip again and my smile vanished. I could picture the murderer perfectly, standing right outside the plane, like the dream I had.

I looked out the window beside Josh and was surprised to see that we were right above the runway, almost ready to land. The seatbelt sign flashed on, and I heard the clicking of everyone re-fastening their seatbelts.

The plane picked up a bit of speed before skimming the surface of the runway. I turned when I heard a young child crying, and my heart almost broke when I realized it was McKayla, who had woken up. Erica managed to comfort her as the plane shook but slowed down, eventually coming to a stop.

Once the most of the passengers had left the plane, Josh and I got up from our seats, grabbing our overhead luggage. Jeremy helped Erica get her backpack, and I took McKayla's hand, leading her down the steps of the plane and outside.

I shivered as a cold breeze blew past. We quickly headed inside the airport, heading over to the 'Baggage Claim' area. Jeremy grabbed a trolley and we all loaded our bags onto it before heading to the main Lobby of the airport. We walked towards the entrance when I thought I felt someone watching me. I turned around and could have sworn I saw a figure right behind me, but just as quickly as it was there, it was gone. I figured my mind was playing tricks on me from my dream and ignored it, turning and following the others outside and to Josh's and Jeremy's cars.

Jeremy said goodbye to us as we reached Josh's car; we would be staying with Josh until I could manage to find a new apartment. I hugged Jeremy, thanking him for all of his help. He smiled and said a quick goodbye to Erica and McKayla before shaking hands with Josh, grabbing his suitcase, and heading to his car. I turned and tried to lift my suitcase into Josh's trunk, but struggled.

"Here, let me," he said, taking it from my hands. I tried not to let him take it, but the second his hands touched mine I gave a small, inaudible gasp and my hands instantly released from the case. He didn't seem to notice as he lifted it into his trunk, before quickly putting his suitcase in, as well as Erica's and McKayla's.

I looked down at my hands, confused. Why had I let go? I shook my head, helping McKayla into her seat before heading to the front seat with Josh. He started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot and into the crowded streets of Nashville. As I passed by so many familiar places, I smiled. I was home. Home.