Hey everyone. First off, I have to apologize to you guys for not updating sooner. I won't go into the details, mainly because I hate when people give me excuses, therefore I don't want to give you guys one. Anyhow, I am here with chapter 4 update. It's somewhat a filler chapter to help move the story along. Sorry if you guys feel it's short. I already have some ideas as to where I want this story to go, so hopefully, you guys will encourage me with your reviews. PLEASE!!

Chapter 4

So you know how I said I couldn't wait to crawl in my bed and go to sleep. Now that I'm actually in my bed, I can't fall asleep. Too many thoughts are running through my head. I can't shake that nagging voice in the back of my head that says I shouldn't trust Derek. But then my heart jumps to his defense stating that people do change.

My mind and heart wage their non-existential war until 4AM. By then, I'm too tired to not fall asleep.

I woke up this morning with the shrill noise of my phone going off. Without even realizing who it was I picked up.

"Hello?" I said groggily, I mean seriously, don't these people know what time it is. I hesitantly look over at the clock and notice that it's noon. Great I slept in late again. On the bright side I'm off from work today so I don't have go anywhere.

"Well, Casey McDonald sleeps till noon. Well, well. I think I have to alert the media." I hear him chuckle, and I can't help but roll my eyes in annoyance.

"Well, like you said. People change." That was the only reply I could come up with. I'm pathetic. Couple of years ago I would've thought of something witty to say. What has happened to me?

"Ok, changed person. Why don't you go ahead and open your door." What the hell is he talking about?

And just like that the doorbell rings. Why would Derek be here this early?

I buzz him in while running back to my closet in panic. I can't let Derek see me in my pajamas. I stop dead in my tracks. Did I really just think that? He's seen me plenty of times in my nightwear. What's so different about this time? Maybe it had something to do with not seeing him in so many years, but nevertheless, I start picking out something appropriate to wear. As I pull my sweats on I hear a faint knock on the door.

"Just a sec." I yell as I put on a shirt and start walking to the door.

When I open them, I see a grinning Derek standing on the other side with various bags in his hands. I had to admit, whatever he got smelled really good.

"Not that I'm not surprised, but what are you doing here?" I ask as I open the door more so he can step in.

"Well, seeing how I was in the neighborhood, I thought that we can have a late breakfast together." He replies and that stupid grin of his is permanently etched on his face.

"Fine, but only because you brought food." I reply as I head to the kitchen to get some plates and utensils.

We eat breakfast in relative quiet, speaking only when we need something passed. As much as I hate to admit this, I'm starting to enjoy this whole new side of Derek. I wonder how long this phase of his is going to last.

He finishes his breakfast and walks into the kitchen to put his plate in the sink. He quickly returns and sits down next to me.

"So Casey, I have a huge favor to ask you." I knew there was a catch to this whole charade that he put on.

"And what would that be?" I prepare myself for a verbal war, knowing Derek, he probably wants me to hook his up with Kim or something.

"I'm going apartment hunting today and I need someone's opinion." He states simply. Before I have a chance to say how he should take one of his hockey buddies, he speaks again.

"And I know you're probably think I should go with someone from the team, but I need an opinion of someone who knows me well. Like you."

Before I have a chance to say anything I feel myself nodding. He grins at me again and I swear I begin to regret agreeing to go with him. I slowly get off the couch and make a way to my room.

"Ok, give me twenty minutes. You're welcome to stay and wait here." With that I shut the door to my bedroom and lean against it. What the hell is going on here?

As the thought enters my head, I peel myself off the door and make my way to the bathroom.