Disclaimer: Richelle Mead is the owner of the Bloodlines series.

As we left Clarence's, I was buzzing with excitement. I had just purchased the Ford Mustang Convertible I knew Sydney would love. As soon as my eyes landed on the car I knew it was the one. I had planned and pictured this moment in my head for days. I would feign ignorance in knowing how to drive stick, forcing her to spend more time with me as I knew she could not resist a challenge like this.

My car came into view as we pulled up in my building. Sydney, in her excitement, parked the car abruptly and got out of the car in a flash. I followed a pace slower enjoying the sight of her gushing.

It was showtime.

"What is that?" she exclaimed.

"Oh," I tried to act nonchalantly. "That's my new car."

I tried my hardest not to laugh and really it was funny watching her reaction. Her eyes were so round and she looked breathless. She started babbling facts about the car and it was worth every dime I spent seeing her this happy. I just wanted to scoop her up and shower her with kisses.

Time to set the plan in motion.

"I can't drive a stick." I said. Here we go.

"Are you going to teach me?" My heart started racing. I can practically hear her saying yes.

"Yes. If that's what it takes to save it from you." She said adamantly. Yes! I thought. My brilliant plan worked!

"I can show you too," said Eddie.

I ignored him and asked Sydney how soon we can start. My days were looking brighter. I was granted a perfect opportunity to spend more time with her, one that allowed me to watch her for hours and listen to the soft cadence of her voice. I looked at her golden eyes and tried to picture us alone in the car, seated close while her hand skims close to mine as she clutches the shift gear-

"Actually," she paused. "Come to think of it I am really busy at the moment. I don't think I have time to teach you but I'm sure Eddie would be happy to."

"Yeah," said Eddie. "I can show you." Wait, what just happened?

"I'm sorry, Adrian." Sydney sighed. No. This isn't happening.

"Been a long time since I drove a car. This would be fun." said Eddie. I feel like someone just shoved my head underwater. Their conversation muffled as my heart sank with disappointment. Gone was the opportunity to stay close to her. They started to leave soon after and I glared at the back of Eddie's head.

"See you bright and early tomorrow, Adrian." Eddie said cheerfully as he hopped in the car.

"Yeah," I grumbled, walking to my door. "See you tomorrow." I slammed it shut.