I cannot count how many times I changed outfits after school or how many times I turned around on the walk to Eli's house. My some miracle, I made it on time. It was sickeningly obvious how nervous I was, stuttering and stumbling over my words. However, when it came to reading the lines I was steady and confident. You know what to expect from a script, unlike real life. No surprises.

He sleepily stretched out on his bed and sighed, "Well, if you don't get the lead, I'm quitting. You mam are fantastic."
"Haha, Oh stop it."

"No really!" he said sitting up and scooting closer. His face couldn't have been more than six inches away. "Clementine, you're really talented. I wish you knew how wonderful you are." His lips curled into a smile as he leaned close to me. This was it. His hand cupped my face delicately as his lips softly pressed into mine. Pulling away slowly, he pulled me into a hug. He held me as if I would break into a million pieces. So gently and soft. "Thank you," I whispered.

"For what?" he said furrowing his brows in confusion.

"For everything, you're just..amazing."
"So are you Clem, you really are."

I checked the time and sighed. "I'm afraid its time for me to head home. I don't want Maria to worry. I promise I'm not blowing you off." I met his eyes and he grinned and shook his head.

"Why don't I give you a ride back, it's getting dark."

"I'll be alright, but thank you so much. I love the weather, don't want to waste it."

"Are you sure? I really don't mind ya know."

"I'm positive, walking helps me think."
"Text me so I know you made it home, okay?"

"Will do."

A fourth of the 2 mile walk home, I started to regret not getting the ride. Fitz recognized me as I was walking home and started following me silently. I struggled not to panic. Flashbacks of South East played through my head. But in a sudden moment of pure bravery, I turned around.
"Do you need something?"

"It depends," he said coming closer "are you willing to give it to me?" As be pulled me closer, I yanked my arm away and ran around the corner. As tears of anxiety filled my eyes, I ran without purpose or direction. I could hear his laughter growing smaller. As soon as I stopped, I was in a section of town where I had no idea where I was. It wasn't the kind of area I was too keen on staying in. Frantically I dialed the Maria's number with no avail. Adam and Drew didn't pick up either. My only other option filled me with embarrassment. I dialed the number with shaky hands. Ringing twice I heard him greet me with. "You can't be home already."

"E-Eli? Can you come g-get me? I-I was followed." I choked on tears but managed to finish by blurting out, "by-by Fitz."
"Where are you? I'm heading out the door."
Glancing around I noticed a sign. "By Java Daves."

"Clem, stay there okay? I'll be over real soon."

I involuntarily shivered as I tried to stop crying. I must've sounded like a big idiot. Blubbering on and crying.

His vehicle came to a screeching stop and he flew out of the car.

"I'm so sorry Clem, I should've brought you home. God, this is my fault. Did he touch you? Are you okay? I'm going to KILL HIM." He raged as folded my body into his warm chest. I felt his lips press firmly down on my head.
"I'm okay. Thank you so much. I'm so sorry I dragged you out here," I sniffed.

"Don't apologize! I'm just glad you're safe. I want to keep you that way Hun. I'm sorry he upset you like this. I hope I'm not coming off too strong but god; I just don't want anyone to hurt you. You're sweet and funny and kind and you don't deserve this."

Leading me into the car and shutting the door behind me, I finally felt the tears subside. Something about him made me feel safe. He got in on his side and started driving. I smiled as I watched smile to himself. "From now on, I'm your own personal chaffer. I'd like to see anyone follow you on my watch."

"Eli you don-"

"Clem I want to. Can I ask you something? I know it's really shitty timing but what the hell? Would you like to go on a date? I know all of its really sudden but, it feels right. Ya know?"

Despite of the recent mishap, I couldn't stop smiling. "Yes! Eli, Yes."

"Monster movie marathon at the old theatre sound good? A long with a bite to eat?"
"It sounds perfect."