Author's Note: Hi guys! This is my first fan fiction since I was a lot younger, so bear with me. I love to write, and I'm definitely looking forward to your comments and constructive criticism. I didn't really introduce the characters because you guys already know them. Sorry such a slow start to the story, I like to draw mine out a little. Hope you enjoy!

I reached down to remove the vibrating cell phone from my pocket. It was just about closing time here at the mall, and with my dad once again out of town, who of course was the one responsible for closing up shop? Me.

With a quick slide of my finger, I pulled up the text message on my phone.

"Hey Ally, are you still picking me up tomorrow?"

It was Austin. A small smile spread across my face. I was so happy he was coming back from vacation tomorrow. Yeah, sure it was great hanging out with Trish, but she was always busy looking for her next job and Dez had picked up some hours at the computer store by the food court. He was trying to save up for a car. Wow, Dez driving?...scary thought...

"Yeah of course, you said 2 o'clock right?", I quickly typed on my android keyboard.

I counted down the cash register and started shutting off the lights while I waited for his reply.

The phone vibrated again, "Yes, I can't wait...I mean, don't get me wrong I love my Grandma and all but I can only handle bingo at the senior citizens hall a maximum of once a week. :)"

I giggled, "LOL actually bingo sounds like fun compared to this place. It's been pretty busy at the shop, but then once I get off work I have nothing to do! I'm so glad you will be back to keep me company."

I finished locking up and headed out to the car. My dad had taken me to the car lot last week as a late birthday gift. He said since it was such a big present it counted for my birthday and Christmas. I knew he was just kidding, but that was perfectly fine with me! It wasn't anything special or new...just a used 2002 silver Honda civic. It was mine though. I hopped in, started up the car, and headed for home.

I walked into the front room and set my keys down on the table. I quickly headed to the fridge to reheat some of my dad's meatloaf and mashed potatoes from last night. The smell permeated from the microwave as the food warmed up. Mmmmm, it smelled so good and I was starving!

My phone vibrated, "What ya doin?"

"FINALLY getting something to eat. Was so busy I didn't get to even snack on anything today...you?"

"Waiting for the next round of bingo to start, discussing all the bowel problems you have when you get older, and getting my cheeks pinched by my Grandma's friends, LOL."

"Ha! Nice!," I smirked to myself. I could just imagine poor Austin getting his cheeks pinched and all the old ladies fawning over him. I do admit- he is a cute little thing.

Cute Ally? Really? Come on, you guys are 17 now...you're getting older, Austin is getting older. And taller. And more muscular...

"Okay, seriously need to stop," I said to myself. Maybe I was just trying to think of other guys to get Dallas off my mind. I saw him a week ago; he was back at his old job at the cell phone cart, so I stopped by to say hi. While I was there, a cute blonde girl came by and dropped off a bag lunch to him. Then she kissed him.

I sighed. Oh Ally, stop thinking about Dallas, he's a player. You've been told that by everyone, you've seen it with your own eyes, and you are over him!

I finished the last bite of my mashed potatoes and rinsed off my dish, placing it in the empty dishwasher. I refilled my glass of ice water and headed up to my room.

I was feeling slightly depressed at the thought of Dallas again. I flipped the TV on and tried to get my mind off it. Every channel seemed to be playing a love story tonight. Ugh. I turned off the TV, reached over and pulled the chain on my lamp. I took a sip of my water, and then curled up under my blanket in the nice dark room. I started thinking about Austin coming home tomorrow. Now HE could get my mind off Dallas for sure. I always have so much fun with Austin and he keeps me busy!

I reached over and grabbed my phone as it vibrated on the nightstand.

"You still there Als?"

"Yeah, but I'm getting ready to go to sleep. I'll see you at the airport tomorrow at 2 though, k?"

"Aw bummer, you gonna leave me bored and go to sleep? LOL j/k Als, I'll see you tomorrow. Thanks for picking me up. Night!"

"Goodnight Austin :)"