A/N: So here is Chapter 10 for you guys that follow. I hope that you enjoy. It is a little something over 8000 words, apologies for that. I hope you don't mind reading, and I hope that I do not bore you. There are things here that I just wanted to cover so that I can keep this story moving forward. I can not wait to move to the good points, and a lot more Vauseman. But I wonder if they are willing to take a risk on each other? I guess we will have to wait and see. Thank you again for all following, and for those of you that reviewed. Keeping them coming. I love to read your thoughts (I got 4 last time hahaha). Any suggestions for progression, please do share. I want to make this enjoyable for you guys. I write to please my audience. I hope that the next chapter will not to be too far away, but Uni is a bit full on right now. It takes up a lot of my time I keep putting it off to write this for you. I think I need to give a little time to my studies, but I will continue. The update will be soon, I promise. Enjoy and let me know your thoughts! :)
Chapter 10
"Go out with me."
Piper looked at Alex. Her eyes wide at shock. To what extent was Alex asking that? She searched Alex's eyes with her own, there were genuine smiles from each other. But Alex's face was hard to read. Piper was feeling giddy like a child. Excited, not knowing exactly what Alex meant but not caring either. Both options were good. She could play the cool. Be clever with her words just like Alex.
She raised an eyebrow at the question. Giving a heartfelt smile, blushing before she had even spoke at her question back. "Are you asking me out Al?"
She watched Alex, shyly. Biting the inside of her mouth to contain her excitement as she watched Alex stumble upon her words. Like she had realised the extent of her question to Piper and how it could be opened to interpretation.
"Y… Yeah…"
"I mean, no. No… yeah. Like… Like let's go out… like a date out."
For the first time, Piper was witnessing a blushing Alex. Struggling to find her words, as she looked to her feet unable to meet Piper's gaze. It was like all of Alex's confidence had gone. Piper chuckled at the sight, I thought Alex was good with girls. She looked up to Alex with those cute eyes, teasing knowing that Alex would not resist Piper with 'that look'.
What was happening to Alex?
"A date. Go on a date with me Pipes."
You don't need to ask. I would love nothing more. An answer was not necessary. Piper loved being in Alex's company, she would love nothing more than to go on a date with her. At this point, Piper didn't care about what anyone thought, this was about her and her happiness. Alex made Piper happy, extremely happy. Of course there would be no hesitation. The smile on her face was enough to tell Alex her answer.
Piper leaned in to Alex, her lips grazed her ear as she spoke. Her voice was soft. The smile on her face may no longer be visible to Alex, but it was evident in her voice. The voice of happiness. "I will think about it."
She placed a kiss to Alex's cheek. Proud of herself.
The answer was yes. But any opportunity for Piper to tease Alex was perfect. She really was a big softy. If only others could see. But this perfect, it's all for me.
With that, Piper gathered her bag. Again. She glanced at Alex, her face was soft. Piper was bad, she was mean. She shouldn't be playing with Alex like that, but she knew that Alex would only do the same.
It was just a pleasure to see a different side of Alex. A side of Alex that showed she really cared for Piper, and with that Piper instantly thought she was different. That she was special to Alex, because the Alex around Piper was not the typical Alex.
She was sweet. She was loving. She was caring.
The one.
I'm falling.
"Where are you taking me Alex?"
"It's a surprise."
Piper was trying her hardest to get details out of Alex. She went as far as trying her cute face, that she knew worked every time. But it wasn't happening. Alex had been silent about the details of their date. She flustered her eyebrows at Alex. But it wasn't working. She was excited. Giddy. Like a child. She loved to be treated, but surprises she didn't. She could not resist the urge to figures surprises out.
"Trust me"
"I trust you Alex."
"Good."
Alex had insisted on taking the subway. That way her full attention could be on Piper, she would not have to focus on Piper, or would she have to resist the urge to touch Piper if she had been the one driving. During their journey, they sat closely together. Piper cuddled into Alex's side, Alex's arm protectively wrapped around her. The acted like a couple. But that was something that had not been discussed. They hadn't put a name to whatever this was, it was Piper and Alex. It was them. It needed no explanation, they both knew the extent of their feelings for each other and that there was a lot more to their 'ship' then a friendship. What friends kiss?
Throughout the journey the conversation flowed. Piper excited like a child, trying her hardest to get details out of Alex. But Alex was not giving in. Despite the cuteness of Piper's face, Alex had succeeded in not sharing any information with Piper, just that she should trust her, and that Piper did.
Luckily for Alex, they had made their way to her chosen destination without giving in to Piper. She had planned for them to divide their time between places. Starting with her first choice.
"A gallery?" She received a small nod from Alex as they made their way inside. Shocked at Alex's choice for their 'date'. She continued to speak. "I didn't think this was your thing."
Piper did not want to sound ungrateful. She loved that Alex had brought her to a gallery. It showed that Alex had thought of her, after their time they spent in the studio. It was a sweet gesture. Just Piper had expected for Alex to choose something that she would enjoy too, and she didn't really strike Art as Alex's thing, especially after the time they shared together in the studio.
"It's for you Pipes."
For Alex, this was all new. Dating. She didn't do. Usually it was a girl she would pick up from a party and end up in bed with, not at a gallery. Never had she thought of another girl and her interests, but she wanted this. To start fresh. She wanted to experience all this, what it's like to be in a relationship, to fall in love. She wanted all this with Piper, and wanted Piper to feel special. To know that she really was different. That this between them was different and that she was committed to whatever it was going to be.
"I want to get to know you. You're into this, I'm into you. So I thought we could start here. Enlighten me."
"You're into me?"
Alex didn't respond. Sure that was soppy enough already, she really didn't need to add anymore. Piper on the other hand was all smiles. Alex is into me. The silence between them was not uncomfortable, Piper linked her arm with Alex's as they walked, her gaze fixated on Alex as she watched in awe. She did this for me.
"What about you Alex?" Piper's voice was sweet. She meant it. Piper was curious about Alex too. "Do you plan on telling me what you are in to?"
Alex turned to Piper. Her voice was confident, lack of emotion. Just husky. But truthful. "You."
Smooth. One word. Straight to the point. But Alex wanted to play this cool. Her tough exterior was coming undone around Piper, she needed to maintain her confidence and carefree side somehow. Her actions were to revealing. She had already given away too much, just how much she was in to Piper, and Alex didn't want to appear weak. But then she didn't want to risk hurting Piper or for Piper to feel like she was just another girl.
Piper didn't respond. Alex was clear. Piper saw this as Alex not wanting to pursue. Perhaps Alex did not want to let Piper in just yet, and if she had to wait that is what she would do.
Together they walked around the gallery space. Starting out with a silence between them, Piper this time waiting for Alex to speak. She didn't want Alex to feel like she was pushing her into sharing something, she wanted Alex to be comfortable, and let Piper know her interests when she was ready.
She felt like she was in the wrong. For asking Alex questions that she clearly did not want to answer. Paranoia taking over her as she began to think the worse.
They looked at a numerous amount of works, Piper particularly interested in expressionism. Work that relatable to how she felt, those hidden problems that she was hiding. Some of those similar to some of the artist's work on display.
Gradually the conversation picked back up. Sharing their thoughts on different works. Although this wasn't Alex's thing, there were works that stood out. Ones that she had taken interest in, luckily enough Piper there to share her knowledge and her opinion. Alex had noted Piper's enthusiasm for expressionism, listening intently as Piper critiqued the works with her interpretation of what they meant. Something she loved to do. Answer the concept of the work herself, before referring to the Artist's description.
Alex was amazed at Piper's knowledge and intelligence, but just how fond she was of the work to. She could see that Piper really loved art. Just from this visit she was learning small details about Piper, from her mannerisms to her interests. All making Alex that little more interested. To Alex Piper was perfect, and sure one day she would admit it.
There had been some light jokes shared between the two. They remained close to each other throughout, at any opportunity they had touching each other. To Piper's surprise Alex had enjoyed the gallery, not that she aware that Alex had enjoyed her company more.
Just as they were about to leave the gallery, Alex had stopped. Piper was unaware of this has she continued. Now both on other side of the doors, Piper looked in to see that Alex had stopped. Something had caught her eye. She laughed. Art is not her thing uh?
Standing back at Alex's side, she followed her gaze to look at a poster. Life Drawing Classes.
"You thinking of being model Al?"
Alex let out a husky laugh as she turned to Piper at her side. She placed her hand gently on her companion's back, she had missed touching. She nodded her head towards the direction of the poster. "You should do it Pipes."
Alex meant it. Piper was talented. She could see that this is something Piper would enjoying doing. Having witnessed Piper today in the gallery but in the studio, she could not help but think that this would be a perfect opportunity for Piper. Alex could not help but think that Piper should put her skill to use rather than hide her incredible talent.
Piper moved her arm around Alex's waist, they stood observing the posters bodies against each other. They chose not to be vocal about how they held each other or their closeness, fearing that the other would pull away.
"You mean, you don't want to be my model anymore Al?"
They both laughed. The thought of Alex being a model. Sure she would enjoy girls looking at her body. Piper thought of Alex as the perfect model, the thought of Alex modelling for Piper sent a flush through her body. But for Alex, her thought process was different. Modelling for Piper could be interesting. They may have been joking, but Alex could not help but think of how being 'a model' could pay well.
"Depends, do you pay well?"
They looked at each other, smiles were shared between the two. Thoughts occupied Piper's mind, Alex as her model and how she would love to repay the favour.
She wiggled her eyebrows at Alex, talking in a seductive voice as she responded. "I'm sure we can arrange a deal."
The gesture was returned by Alex. She arched her eyebrow with a smirk on her face. They had the same idea. The tension between them was building, but they remained silence, turning to leave the gallery. They walked side by side, the conversation replaced by their own thoughts as Alex stopped abruptly. A small distance formed between herself and Piper. "One condition"
"Yeah."
"In the nude."
They laughed. A blush formed on Piper's face as she looked to Alex wiggling her eyebrows towards Piper. They wanted more. Both of them teasing. Just neither acting on it. Alex eagerly closed the distance between herself and Piper, standing at the blonde's side, receiving a light tap on the arm from Piper.
Piper didn't mind that idea. Why would she? Alex is beautiful. Alex in the nude would be beautiful. Toned body and Pale Skin, her dark hair and green eyes. Perfect breasts. Piper's thoughts were going wild, causing redness from her face as she blushed. She bit the corner of her lip as she thought of Alex, naked. She lowered her gaze from Alex, embarrassed at her thoughts. It's too soon to be thinking like that.
Alex acted. Taking the opportunity to intertwine Piper's hands with her own as they left the gallery. Their bodies close to one another, occasionally bumping into each other's side. "Next Stop."
"Let me choose for you."
"Ok."
Alex had brought them to get something to eat. The chance for her to spend some time with Piper where they were not preoccupied by their surroundings, or distracted by others. A chance for them to sit at a table and talk. Or to look at each other. Whatever they wanted to do.
She had insisted on choosing Piper's food for here. Convinced that she would be able to choose what Piper would like, but also a hint that she was learning and taking in everything that Piper had said. Alex had never taken a girl for food, it might not be much but it was new. It was for Piper. She had a point to prove to Piper.
They had both been seated at a table for two, sat opposite of each other. Their conversation had flowed from the gallery to here, and now that they had seated it wasn't going to stop. Everything was just simple with them. They felt at ease with each other. It was easy peasy.
"You shocked me today Al."
"I did?"
Piper nodded. She found it sweet that Alex would do something like that for her. That Alex had thought of Piper. She felt loved. Her happiness was genuine. The idea of Alex wanting to get to know Piper caused flutters in her stomach. She had never experienced this with someone, to the extent of feeling giddy. Like a lovesick puppy. She spoke softly, and with care. Wanting Alex to know just how serious she was, and that she was appreciative too. "Yeah. The Gallery. I never thought it was your thing. But to think of me when you chose it, it was kind of you Alex."
"Anything for you Pipes."
Piper reached across the table to take Alex's hand. She squeezed it gently as she held onto Alex's fingers. She wanted Alex to know just how thankful she was of it. Her time with Alex had been great. Her voice was low, but confident. "I enjoyed it."
She paused. Looking to Alex. "You know Al… "
Piper knew what she wanted to say it was just how she would say it so that it didn't sound bad. Or like she was pushing Alex into thinking she should say anything. But Piper felt the need to apologise. She was grateful of Alex, and for what she had done for her today. She wanted that to be known.
Alex was looking at Piper. Her face didn't reveal any form of emotion, Piper struggled to read it. But she knew that Alex was not judgemental. She didn't have to worry about her words with Alex. But that wasn't enough. Because her words still struggled to come out, as she stumbled upon her words. Struggling to compose a sentence. "Im… Im sorry for earlier. I didn't… I didn't mean… I don't want you to feel like you have to tell me anything. Not if you don't want to."
"Pipes." Alex's voice was soft, but reassuring. She took hold of Piper's hand this time, gently squeezing it for comfort as she looked to Piper. Her voice was comforting. "I never said that."
A sigh of relief left Pipers mouth. Pleased that Alex wasn't fazed by Piper asking about her, but relieved that it was out to. They could move on. She had been silly. It really was nothing.
Just as Alex went to speak again, the waitress had made her way to their table. Placing their food in the centre.
"Pizza?"
Alex raised her eyebrow at Piper, waiting for approval on her choice of food. Piper nodded towards Alex, she approved. Pizza was always a good choice. Alex smiled at Piper as she took a plate and placed a slice of Pizza before handing it to Piper.
Pizza was a no risk choice. Sure Piper would like Pizza, who doesn't. But there was more to Alex's choice then an easy option. The choice of food was sharing food, meaning that she would be eating from the same plate as Piper. At some point they would be sure to touch each other.
There were moans of approval coming from Piper. She was enjoying the food. Alex didn't need to ask, her actions said it all. The conversation between them had been brought to a hold as they enjoyed the food between them.
As Piper reached for another slice of Pizza, Alex took this opportunity to reach in to. Somehow, managing to reach for that very same slice that Piper had opted for. Piper had failed to notice this. It wasn't until her hand was gripping on Alex's and not the Pizza that she had realised. She looked up, she blushed.
"Uh… sorry." She apologised as if it was her fault, unbeknown that Alex had done this deliberately. She suddenly felt shy, as she removed her hand and looked away. Allowing Alex to take that slice. But she didn't. When Piper turned back, looking to the Pizza then Alex, she was greeted by a smug grin and Alex's eyes on her own. A flush of redness covered her face. She really had to stop this blushing in front of Alex.
She looked confused. Why hadn't Alex taken the pizza? Was it because she had touched it too? Was she fussy?
"You want this?" Alex raised the Pizza in front of Piper. Her eyebrow arched. Piper was silent. But then instantly it clicked. Alex had planned this. She nodded her head shyly at Alex.
"Let me feed you."
Alex leaned across the table, her bum raised slightly from her seat. Bending so that her cleavage was in full view to Piper only, she brought the Pizza to Piper's mouth as she allowed her to take a bite. She waited in that position for a while. As watched Piper, following her eyes down to her cleavage. She smirked. Pleased with herself and that Piper was taking in the view. At that point their gazes met, Piper's eyes shooting back up. For the second time she had been caught. But Alex was doing this deliberately.
Alex laughed. Before taking the same slice of Pizza to her own mouth, her body still leaving over the table. She moaned in approval. Was it the taste of the pizza or Piper? She approved. She rolled her eyes as she savoured the taste, before offering the pizza back to Piper.
Her hand leaned forward. The pizza now in contact with Piper's mouth as she opened her mouth to take a bite, only to be stopped as she felt the pizza being pushed into her face. Her mouth now ajar. Alex had just slapped her with a pizza. The moment of shock had passed as she chuckled. Looking to Alex with the biggest, proudest grin on her face.
You'll pay for this.
At that, Alex sat back down. Taking the same pizza to her mouth, as she finished it off. Watching Piper and her 'pizza face'. She looked cute with Pizza on her face. "You need a little help there?"
"Nope. I got it. Thank you."
Piper wiped her hand across her face as Alex looked on, refusing to take no for answer. She gathered a napkin, leaning in. She wiped Pipers mouth. She shook her head, "This isn't going to work. I think we need something moist."
Piper arched her eyebrow, as she glanced across the table for 'something moist'. Her eyes falling upon Alex's lips. A smile tugged in the corner of her own, both Alex and Piper both leaning in further. Their lips came together. Alex dragging her tongue across Piper's lips, seeking entrance. Piper's mouth parted as Alex wasted no time in savouring the taste of Piper. Her tongue searching Piper's mouth. Piper too using her tongue to explore Alex's mouth. There were moans from both. There was passion and fire in the kiss. But it was brought to a stop before it deepened.
"Better?"
Piper leaned forward again. Placing a peck onto Alex's lips. "It is now." There was a small chuckle from both of the girls. They had enjoyed the kiss. "I didn't think PDA was your thing."
"If I get to kiss you like that every time then I think it can become our thing."
Our. Piper beamed at the use of our. A toothy smile spread from cheek to cheek. She had not expected to Alex to use a term like that, especially not soon. It gave Piper hope, thinking that they could be a lot more.
At that, their food had been forgotten. They were focused on each other. Alex had moved her chair so she was now closer to Piper, her one hand on the table the other on Piper's thigh. Their legs touching under the table as their feet knocked together. If PDA was never their thing before, it was now because neither of them where interested in how it looked. They were doing this for each other.
For a while, they sat and talked. Made out a little more. To be interrupted by a waitress, placing a waitress on their table, an indication that they should probably leave. Probably because they were occupying a table and not actually eating food.
They both diverted their gazes from each other, only to look at the bill. Piper beat Alex, reaching out for it. "Let me pay for this."
Alex shook her head. Playfully fighting Piper to take the bill out of her hands, placing it back to the table. She held onto Pipers hands so she could not retrieve the money from her purse. "No. I've got this babe."
Piper's eyes were wide in shock. "Did you just call me babe?
She winked at Piper. Before returning to her side of the table to pay the bill. "I did. Babe."
The night was growing dark. Alex was shocked that she had been able to cram in all of her plans for after school. But she was pleased with herself. Her time with Piper was only getting better. The pizza on her lips being her favourite so far, she was sure she would love some more of that. Not that they hadn't share another kiss or two, since they had left. But now they found themselves scrolling through the park.
This time, a distance between them. The night was cold. Both girls were feeling it. But Alex wanted to be the dominant one, and not show it. She wanted at least some control so she could be the one to keep Piper warm and take her into her arms. She watched Piper's teeth chattered. Stepping to Piper as took her into an embrace. Her arms wrapped tightly around Piper's thin frame. Piper responded, nuzzling into Alex's neck and she took in the warmth of Alex's body. Her arms were now under Alex's jacket, as she wrapped them around her waist. Using her body as a shield to protect Alex from the cold. They enjoyed each other. Their bodies close.
Alex was feeling guilty that she had not really planned ahead. She didn't think of the weather or that Piper would be out in the cold. There was not much she could do, other than take Piper into an embrace and hope that she could keep her warm somehow. But she was fully aware that it couldn't last forever because they couldn't stand around hugging.
"You want to head back Pipes?"
Piper shook her head, still buried in Alex's neck. "Not yet." For now she was content, she could handle the cold if it meant that she could spend longer with Alex.
Alex scanned around her as she searched for a bench. Luckily enough, there wasn't one too far away. She guided Piper over to the bench without really letting go. It was a little difficult to walk, but they made it. She sat down, pulling Piper onto her lap as she wrapped her arms tightly around her. They were enveloped with silence. Tightly wrapped up in each other.
Piper was placing small kisses onto Alex's neck. Not meaning to tease Alex, but to show her appreciation. A moan escaped her mouth as she stopped to speak into Alex's neck. "This is nice." She pulled back to place a kiss on Alex's lip.
"So what about you Al? Is this what you like, sitting in parks with girls?"
Alex laughed, she placed a kiss to Piper's forehead as she tightened her grip. Her head resting on top of Piper's. "Only with tall blonde, blue eyed girls."
Piper had never had a conversation with Alex about girls, or her previous girlfriends. Only briefly. She wanted to know about Alex's passed, but she was worried that she would be jealous. The thought of Alex and other girls scared Piper. She wanted Alex for herself. But she was feeling brave, with Alex's arms wrapped around her. "Is that your type?"
Alex looked to Piper. She was shocked, she had never expected Piper to ask these questions. But then she didn't want to lie either. She wanted to be truthful. She took a deep breath, composing herself before she spoke. "No."
"I don't really have a type."
"So what about previous girlfriends?"
"There haven't been any Piper. That's not for me. Well, it wasn't. It was more about a number."
"Oh." Piper's response came from shock. She barely managed to come up with a word. A lump formed in her throat at the thought of Piper just being a number. She had hoped that she means more to Alex then that.
"People can change Piper. I have never really had that connection with someone to let them in." Alex was nervous. She could not predict Piper's response. Telling the truth was a risk, but telling a lie was worse. She owed it to Piper to be truthful. It was better for them to start on good terms rather than bad. If she was honest from the beginning a lie would not come back to taunt her later on. This was all new for Alex, but it was for Piper. Because she was worth it. "The idea of a relationship scares me."
That was the truth. Alex was guarded. She wasn't going to let just anyone in. She only shared things with her Mother, maybe Nicky too but not everything, and to let someone in scared her. But there was more to it. She was scared to commit. Scared to commit to Piper at the fear of hurting her. She wasn't really sure on how relationships worked. All this was new to her. Alex had always been one for fucking girls and leaving them, and she knew from the beginning that she could never do that with Piper. She panicked when she had thought that had been the case between her and Piper, and never had she experienced being happy that she had not slept with a girl. She had a hint that this was new to Piper, a 'lesbian' relationship and that her parents probably didn't know that side of Piper. So for sure she didn't want to push Piper into anything. She knew that with Piper, she would never get bored. Everything was easy when they were together. The conversation never forced. The chemistry had always been there and the tension between them only growing. Piper was the one for her, it scared Alex to admit that. But she knew. She knew that she had to claim Piper as her own before it was too late.
Piper was quiet. She looked in front of her. Taking in what Alex had said. If Alex wasn't into relationships, what was this between them? What did she want from Piper?
Sensing the fear from Piper, Alex cupped her face guiding Piper to look at her. She glanced her face to read Piper's facial expression. She didn't want to ruin things with Piper before they had even started. She needed to be honest, if she wanted to pursue things with Piper. She needed to reassure Piper and hope that she would believe her. This was all new for Alex, but it had to be done. Usually her Mom would help her through this, but unfortunately right now she wasn't. She had to face this alone.
"Pipes. Please just trust me. This. Us. It's different. I like you Piper. I'm trying. This. The things you and I have done. It's all new to me… an… and… I've enjoyed it. I love spending time with you Piper. Just let me prove things to you. If you're not happy you can walk away. But you can't deny that there isn't something between us. We would be sitting her otherwise, having this conversation. It's a risk I know, but I want you to take a chance on me babe."
Us. She keeps using 'Us'.
"Am I just another girl to you Alex?"
She couldn't help it. It just slipped out. Foot-in-mouth disease. That was Piper. Always slipping up. Before she could say anything, Alex had responded. "Is that what you think Piper?"
Alex let go, her arms removing from Piper. Her gaze turned away. Piper looked to Alex, what she said had hurt. Alex's facial expressions were saddened. Surely that should be enough for Piper. The answer that she wants.
"Al…" Piper reached out to cup Alex's face. Turning her face to look at her, she placed a gentle kiss onto Alex's lips. "No." Her voice was low, barely above a whisper. She shook her head, annoyed at herself. She didn't plan on hurting Alex, she just wanted reassurance. She was falling for Alex, and all of that came at a risk. Especially with the problem of her parents. "No Alex. I like you too. A lot. Just. This… you and I… Us. It's a risk… and I need to know how you feel about this. About us. I can't take that risk if it's not something you want to pursue. Please. Look at me Al. I want you."
Her cards were out on the table. Her feelings had been said. She may have not gone into detail with her fear, but she had admitted that indeed she and Alex was a risk. But she wanted it, and for Alex she was willing to risk it all. Because she was falling. Falling hard. She was smitten with Alex and hoped that she felt the same way too.
Alex looked up to Piper. She confirmed her answer with a kiss. It lasted a while, before she pulled apart. To look at Piper, "I want you too."
"Take a risk on me Pipes. Go on another date with me?"
"Ok. Ok. I will go on another date with you."
Theirs lip met again another time this evening. Neither caring about the people walking by. PDA was really becoming their thing, or at least they should get used to it, because they were struggling to resist each other. They were embraced in each other has their lips connected with each other's. This time slow, they didn't need to rush. There was plenty of time for them to explore each other. It was love, a kiss of reassurance. Filled with many answers, the answers that they needed.
They were going to take a risk. Battling their fears for each other.
They completed their evening just talking about each other. Learning small details about one another, but it all added up. They all meant something. Piper had shared a small amount of information about her family, her parents and her brothers. Sharing her waspy upbringing with Alex which they spent a lot of time laughing at. Alex was surprised that Piper hated her upbringing, especially she had it all. But it hurt to realise what Piper was missing. Piper didn't feel loved. She needed love. Alex could not help but question why her parents were like that, how could they not love their daughter for what she is?
Piper had still not revealed all to Alex. She did not want her fear to scare Alex away. Now wasn't the right time. She wasn't lying, she was just holding back. Eventually she would find the time to tell Alex, but she just needed time. Alex however, had put two and two together. Piper's problems were only getting clearer.
Alex on the other hand had shared with Piper details about her family. They compared upbringings. Alex admitting that she would not have liked the lifestyle that Piper has, because love is enough. Piper smiled at that, she agreed. She too would choose love over money. There would be no hesitation with that.
Alex had gone in to detail about Diane working several jobs. How she and her mother had spent a lot of time a part whilst her Mom worked, but how they still had a strong bond. That she would share everything with her Mom. Alex went as far as briefly talking about her father. Not that she was very enthusiastic about it, she hated him. Not for the way he treated her but for how he had left her Mom. Piper had comforted Alex through it all. She wanted Alex to know that she was there for her, and would always be if she ever wanted to talk. But the talk only improved. Alex shared her fondness of her sister. She talked so highly of Amber. Making jokes of how Amber looked up to Piper, causing Piper to laugh at that. She was proud that she could be a role model to the younger Vause, but if Amber turned out anything like Alex then she would be perfect. Between it they shared a few kisses.
Alex's walls were slowly coming down. She had let Piper in, in just that evening alone she had told Piper a lot already. Things that she would not usually share with another. But she trusted Piper and wanted her to know.
They discussed their future, like adults. Alex's interests. Piper shocked to learn Alex loved reading, but then she did have a great secretary look about her. Those glasses suited Alex perfectly. They messed around, Piper trying on Alex's glasses as they took a few photographs together. For the album they joked, and many more to come. They discussed Alex's love for theatre, the first time that she taken to watch a play. Fortunately for the Vause family things were looking up, Diane's pay was better. She no longer worked several jobs. She had been fortunate enough to take Alex to the theatre, knowing her daughters love for it. Alex spoke of it as one of the greatest moments of her life, a memory that she often thinks about. She was grateful that she got to share this with Piper. Making known how proud she was of her Mother. Piper listened in awe. The Vause family unit was perfect, and she wished that she could be a part of it.
Alex may have this tough exterior, but she had a dream. She wanted to work in theatre and continue her interest in literature. They shared a common interest in that subject. Piper had learnt that deep beneath Alex's thick skin, she had a big heart. She cared, and although she messed around a lot. She was set on doing well at school, to make her family proud and for a good future.
For Piper.
They lay on Alex's bed the whole time. They had managed to sneak in quietly, not waking Diane or Amber. Grabbing a drink and making their way to Alex's bedroom. They lay there the whole time. Agreeing that Piper should stay over. Not thinking of the fact they had school tomorrow. They lay facing each other on top of Alex's sheets. Gently stroking each other's cheeks, or playing with each other's hands. They brushed strands of fallen hair from each other's face. Taking in the view.
Their legs were intertwined. Their arms protectively around each other. Silence fell upon them as they gradually gave up the battle with sleep. They drifted off into a deep slumber, tangled in each other.
The week had passed. It was now Saturday and Piper had to get back to Soccer. As much as they had enjoyed their 'date', they had not spent the night together again. Only seeing each other at school, and briefly after school. They both were caught up with work. But they missed each other.
Their thoughts often drifted back to their shared time together. For both of them as they thought about it, their faces covered in smiles. They were falling hard for each other. But neither knowing if that were ready to admit it.
The most important part of it all was that they had each other.
Today was a big day for Piper and her team. They had made it to the final. She was extremely proud of them, this was the last hurdle. Piper was confident that her team could do it, there had never been a game where they didn't play well or at least try their best. They were extremely competitive for their age. She was preparing for the arrival of her team, when her eyes were being covered by hands. She had no idea whose they could have been. Piper definitely did not suspect that any of the parents would do such a thing. All she could establish was that the person was tall and had soft hands. As she turned around, removing the hands she was greeted with green eyes behind black frames. Her smile was soft.
"Alex?" Her voice low as she took it all in. Alex at a soccer game. This was a shock for her. A small silence passed before both girls were joined by Amber hugging Piper. Returning the gesture she spoke, her eyes locked with Alex's. "I didn't think soccer was your thing. I guess Diane couldn't make it?"
Amber butted in. Excitedly. For the first time Alex was attending a soccer game. A big game for Amber too and the younger Vause was happy that her sister had taken the time to attend. Her voice was loud and filled with excitement as she let go of Piper, to stand between the two. She was sure to correct Piper. "No! Alex offered to bring me. Mom is coming soon."
It was followed by Amber's voice again. As she turned to look at Alex and then back to Piper. "But Alex insisted we should leave early."
Piper chuckled slightly. The thought of Alex wanting to be early to the game. I wonder why. Looking to Amber with a loving smile on her face, then raising her eyebrow as she looked up to Alex. "Is that right?"
Alex's gaze had not left Piper's, as she placed her hand gently to the top of her sister's head, still standing between Piper and Alex. "I couldn't risk missing the big game."
To some extent that was a lie. She had always wanted to attend one of her sister's games, just working on a Saturday had stopped her from doing just that. But when Amber had mentioned the game, Alex instantly thought of Piper and how she missed her. Amber chuckled excitedly in the direction of Alex. She couldn't wait to show of her skills, especially to Alex.
"You got a great sister there AV." Piper had meant it. Alex really was great, and Alex understood exactly what Piper was saying as a smirk formed on her face, looking at Piper. The younger Vause responded with a nod, quickly squeezing Alex before running off to some of her team.
Now they stood. Just those two. Inches apart. Both raising their eyebrows at each other with grins on their face. They both knew the truth, the real reason Alex had chosen to attend the soccer game.
"The real reason Al?"
"What?" There was a pause. A husky chuckle escaping Alex's lips. She would never admit it. So she chose to avoid, coming up with partly what was the truth. "Amber wanted me to watch her play. Today just happened to be the day."
That was a lie. Piper could see through Alex that was not the truth. She wanted to see the blonde. Showing that she was unconvinced by Alex's answer, her reply was barely an answer. "Hmmm."
Leaning in to Piper's ear, Alex spoke quickly so she could pull away before any eyes fell upon the two. "But it's good to see you." She winked at Piper, creating a distance between them. She had to fight the urge to not lean in and kiss Piper, it was too risky.
Alex had been joined by Diane at the beginning of the game. She and Piper kept their distance from each other, sharing quick glances between one another. Piper remained the opposite side of the pitch. She was focused on coaching her team through the game. For Alex however, her attention was not required by another. She could focus on Piper, and take in the view.
Despite being there to 'support her sister'. Alex's mind was on other things. Seeing Piper in her coaching kit was only doing things to her. How she would love to help Piper out of those clothes, but to all the energy that she must have and she would like to put that to use in the bedroom. She wanted Piper. But she was willing to wait. Their time would come eventually. It was growing harder for Alex to resist, to fight the urge to have her way with Piper. The tension between the two was only growing. She really wanted her wicked way with the blonde. Her thoughts had led her into a daydream. Losing her focus on the game. She must have been thinking for so long, because it was already nearing the end of the game. She was brought from her thoughts at the sounds of screams from her side. Her head shot up, to look to her side. Parents applauding.
"Alex! Did you see it? Did you see me score?"
She didn't. She felt guilty. Alex had missed her sister scoring as she got distracted her thoughts. The younger Vause was now running towards Alex and her Mother, excitedly. Clearly proud of her achievements. Alex looked to her sister with a half-heartedly smile. "Well done Kid. Go get another one!"
She looked across the pitch to Piper. Their gazes had met as they shared a faint smile between each other. It wasn't for long, as the game continued. The team were drawing. Alex could only hope that luck would be on her side and that she would be able to witness her sister score. Either way, she was extremely proud and she could see just how much Piper had helped the younger Vause. That brought a bigger smile to her face. The thought of Piper and her family, the fact that they really did get on. She had no worries, because Piper fitted in to their family, and Diane accepted Piper to.
The game was nearing the end. A battle between either sides, both wanting the next goal to secure a win for their team. The other side had come close to scoring, thankfully being stopped by the goalkeeper. As the time passed, Alex's hope of seeing Amber score was growing less hopeful.
She watched the battle between the sides, as the ball came in possession of her sister's team, making their way to the opposing goal as they passed the ball between each other. Alex watched on with hope, a smile widening on her face as the ball was now in possession of her sister. It was like slow motion, she watched her sister pull back and forcefully strike the ball in the direction of the goalkeeper. It skimmed the goalkeeper's hands as the ball made contact with the left hand side of the net.
Alex leaped for joy. Luck was on her side. She didn't care how she may seem, but she was proud of her sister. She had secured a win for her team, just in the last few seconds.
Everyone around them celebrated. Alex turned to Diane, happiness beaming on her face. Her smile grew bigger as she watched her mother happy, lifting her sister into an embrace. She joined in. A three way hug as she placed a kiss to her sister's head and then her Mom's. It was a proud moment for them all.
For the first time that day she got to share a hug with Piper. They spent a bit longer hugging each other, pulling their bodies flush against each other into a tight embrace. Alex placed a small kiss to Piper's cheek as she took in the smell that she missed.
They spent a small time celebrating. The team occupying the pitch. They were victorious. Alex proudly took a step back as she allowed Piper spend time with her team. But she watched on. Loving witnessing Piper and her sister. They really had formed a connection.
Noticing that Alex was looking at her, Piper made her way over to Alex and Diane.
"She played great didn't she? She's talented."
"She sure is, but she doesn't definitely get it from me or Alex."
Piper chuckled. Alex pulled a disappointed face at Diane putting down her skill. Piper smiled towards as Alex and their eyes locked. They had failed to notice Diane watching them as she smiled at the two, it was like she could sense that they were made for each other. If she had to choose someone for Alex, it would be Piper. They fit together so well, and definitely made a good-looking couple.
Diane cleared her throat, making it known that she was still there. Both of their heads turned instantly. They were getting lost in each other.
"You want to get a Milkshake with us Piper?"
Piper smiled. She looked to Alex for approval. Alex sensing that Piper was asking for approval, she spoke. "I should get going. I have to head back to work."
Piper had taken Diane up on her offer. She was disappointed the Alex was unable to join them. But she liked Diane, and enjoyed being in her company. It had been a while since she had sat and spoke with Diane. The last thing that she had expected was to be sitting in a diner, drinking a milkshake in the company of the Vause family.
It was all slightly odd. The fact that Piper was sitting with Alex's mom and sister and Alex wasn't there. Just the other day she was making out with Alex, and now here she was like nothing was going on. Her family unaware of it all. But she would not lie to Diane, she had a lot of respect for the oldest Vause and Piper sure she would know the truth soon. All maybe she already did. She had woken up in the Vause household just the other day, to be greeted by a questioning look from Diane. Only to leave unanswered.
Amber had taken to drawing. Not joining in on the conversation at the table. Convinced the younger ears were not listening, Diane took this as the opportunity to quiz Piper.
"So you and Alex."
Piper coughed at the unexpected question. She looked to Diane who had a grin on face. Alex looks just like Diane. Luckily for Piper, she felt at ease with Diane, comfortable with telling her everything. She didn't fear that she would be judged, therefore she would not have to lie. A small blush crossed her face, slightly embarrassed at talking to Diane about her and Alex. She smiled at the thought. Processing her response.
But she couldn't think quickly enough. Diane noticed the shine in Piper's blue eyes, the way they lit up at the mention of Alex. It was the answer to her question. "She likes you too Piper."
Taking placed a comforting hand on top of Pipers. Piper looked to their hands and then to Diane. How is it possible for someone to be so nice? She blushed again. Diane's words sending a fluster through her body. Alex was special, and Diane confirming that Alex indeed liked Piper was reassuring. It was everything that Piper had wanted to hear.
Her voice was caught. She struggled to form a sentence to respond to Diane. She wanted to, just she was overwhelmed by what Diane had said. All that Piper could do was respond with a loving smile at Diane.
A silence had passed between them, when Piper's thoughts slipped from her mouth. Her voice was quiet, but it came out and she was sure that Diane had heard too. "She's perfect."