AN: Hello guys. It's really nice to read your reviews and see that you are following the story. I hope you are enjoying it. Please share your thoughts on this chapter, I need your feedback. To the reader who asked for more Nicky/Alex interaction, I hope that you enjoy the chapter. Thank you all for your reviews.
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Chapter 11
A lot can happen when you make peace with your broken parts. Its like a curtain that draws open, revealing a whole new perspective on things that previously seemed so dark. At least this is how it felt to Alex.
Things with Piper were going amazing. They spent every possible afternoon together, watching movies, eating, playing cards... Sometimes the blonde spent the night at Alex's place, although they didn't get much sleep on those occasions.
Alex decided it was time for her to start training. If everything turned out right she could get back on shape and find a low-key contract with one of the National League teams.
Nicky had finished her season early, her team didn't make to the playoffs and she was free for the next month and a half. She decided to help Alex with her training and soon they were back on the streets, running a few miles.
"Ah, isn't this a lovely morning for a good run? Fresh air... nice sunrise... I'm back with my old partner... I mean, you can't ask for more, can you?".
"No".
Alex wasn't paying much attention to Nicky, she was to busy focusing on controlling her breathing, a task which its difficulty increased by the second.
Nicky could sense the brunette was struggling to keep up with the pace.
"How are things with blondie? I haven't seen her in a while. Is she good?"
"Mjm"
Alex tried her best not to waste any amount of air out of her lungs unnecessarily.
The shorter woman continued with her teasing, looking straight forward while keeping her fast pace.
"I think you need to buy new shoes, those seem to be slowing you down a bit".
"Would you shut the fuck up!"
Alex spat, unable to hide her annoyance any longer, and Nicky bursted in laughter as she finally got her desired reaction from the tall brunette.
"You better get on shape soon Vause, I don't like this feeble version of you".
"Yeah, well make fun of me now. Two more weeks..."
She paused between fast breaths
"...and it's going to be you running behind me".
A big grin appeared on Nicky's face. It was so good to see Alex getting back into the game, or at least trying. She knew it wouldn't take long for Alex to gain her momentum. They were planning on doing different practice sessions. Weight training, movement drills, ball drills... Hopefully she could find a contract in the next couple of months.
They continued their run trough the neighborhood. The plan was finishing two miles around the streets, and then get back into the gym to do some weight training. There were only a few cars on the road, it was too early for the masses. The sun was slowly raising, painting the previous dark blue sky with an orange and red gradient. You could hear the birds chirping, interrupting the previous silent morning. The air was cold, almost numbing their nose and hands, as their feet barely touched the pavement in a steady rhythm. They were officially back in business.
"In Michigan University of Health Sciences we focus on a high-quality, innovative, student-centered learning environment. It is our priority that the student feels appreciated and not like he or her is merely another statistic number. Here we answer some FAQ about the University"
The long-beard man handed Piper a red and white brochure with the initials MUHS at front.
It had been quite an interesting morning for Piper at College. Representation of many medical schools were on campus with information tables, promoting their respective universities, all of them trying to allure the premed students into their program. By lunch time, Piper ended with a bag full of pens, key chains, pen drives, necklaces... all of the promotions stuff they were giving. She knew she couldn't postpone this decision any longer, but at the same time it was so hard. There were so many options, and she didn't wanted to precipitate and make a choice she would regret later.
Her thoughts were interrupted by an all cheered up Polly, who suddenly appeared by her side, holding a binder against her chest. A big smile on her face, apparently anxious for splurting some big news.
"Hey Piper" She said bumping into her friend's shoulder "you are planning on going to the party tonight? It's gonna be at George's house"
She closed her eyes holding her palm up before hearing Piper's protests.
"And don't tell me you have to study because there are still three more weeks till the finals. And I also know George is a dick but, it doesn't matter. Half of the students are going to be there anyways. What do you say?"
Piper thought about it for a second. Polly was right, she couldn't argue this time. It might be fun.
"Yeah, sure, I'll let you know" She smiled politely
"You better" Polly grabbed Piper's arm enthusiastically "I talked to Pete and he's coming with his friends. Baby, I prophesy that tonight I am meeting the father of my future kids"
Nicky and Alex were finishing at the gym. The place was crowded, as people rushed in before their jobs started. Some fast beat music echoed trough the speakers, with questionable lyrics that were supposed to motivate whoever listened to them. All Nicky could hear was "party" and "sex", and that was working just fine with her.
"So, now that Natalie isn't your agent anymore, who's going to help you with all the stuff?"
Alex stepped below the squat bar, grabbing it firmly over her shoulders.
"I don't know, haven't thought about that yet. Maybe Jeremy? Debbie's agent."
The short woman took a sip of water.
"Well you could always consider mine, I mean, don't you see the bright career I have?"
This made Alex laugh "Totally". She began the reps, shoulders aligned with her ankles, slowly going down.
The short woman continued, looking at Alex's reflection on the big mirror wall in front of them.
"No seriously, he is nice. We don't talk much though, business only".
She turned to face the brunette, who had a focused expression on her face as she went up and down carefully, making the bar friction against the metal column.
"But so far things have always ran smoothly. Indiana renewed my contract for three more years, and the money deal is pretty good".
Alex kept looking straight forward, sweat drops running down her face.
"Well I think I can talk to this "business only" guy." Her voice strained as she struggled with the weight. "How many sets are left?"
"This is the last one, then we'll cool off and get going"
Piper parked her car in front of Alex's house. She had 20 minutes before her work shift started, so she decided to give the brunette a quick visit. She took her jacket off and entered trough the door.
The house was silent. Only the continuous hum of the fridge at the kitchen could be heard. Piper walked towards the lounge to see if Alex was there, but only found her training shoes.
She went upstairs to her room, carefully pushing the half-open white door. The blonde smiled at the sight in front of her, reminding herself how lucky she was to be with this beautiful girl. Alex was laying on the bed, her legs stretched almost occupying the entire mattress. She was wearing a white sports bra, black socks, and gym shorts of the same color. Her left hand kept a weak grip on an open book resting on her chest. Strands of black hair fell all over her neck and shoulders.
Piper sat at the side of the bed and gently grabbed the sleeping woman's hand.
"Al?"
The brunette stirred, slowly opening her eyes as they adjusted to the brightness, trying to focus on the sight before her.
"Pipes?" She spoke with a sleepy voice.
"Hey sleeping beauty. Tough workout today?"
The blonde leaned forward and placed a kiss on Alex's lips.
"Mmm" Alex closed her eyes again, enjoining the sweetness of the kiss.
"Yeah, my whole body feels like it weights a thousand pounds"
"Come here, stay with me a bit" She gestured Piper to lay beside her.
"I can't, I have to go to work in like..." Piper glanced at her watch "...15 minutes"
Alex made her best version of a sad face "Please, just five minutes, then you can go and serve some coffee to strangers"
The blonde smiled and leaned on the bed, complying with Alex's request. She felt Alex's arm wrapping her around the waist. This were the things she loved about her. Judging by her nonchalant demeanor, the brunette may seemed like she had everything figured out, but Piper knew this was merely an act. Sometimes she forgot that Alex was just a nineteen year old girl, who was struggling to make sense of everything she had lived.
Piper interlaced her fingers with Alex's, turning the neck so she could glimpse the body of the woman behind her.
"There is a party tonight at some guy's house. They wouldn't shut up about it at campus. You wanna go?"
Alex leaned on her elbow and buried her head on Piper's neck.
"I might be into that. How many hot chicks are coming?"
"Oh, I'm sorry to disappoint" The blonde turned around so their noses were practically touching. "It's a dick-only party."
A big grin appeared on her face as she saw Alex grimacing.
"Gross, so why are you inviting me then?"
"Because" She bit her bottom lip, and lowered her voice to almost a whisper. "I heard this one girl that works at a coffee shop is gonna be there. Thought you might be interested."
Alex fixed a strand of Piper's hair back in its place, her lips curving upwards, studying the gorgeous woman in front of her.
"Does this girl has big mesmerizing blue eyes?"
A rosy shade appeared on Piper's cheeks before she responded.
"Yes... she does"
The brunette closed the gap between their lips, making Piper inhale a sharp breath.
"Then I'm in"
They stayed there, savoring each other's presence. It were the small moments like this, that they enjoyed more than anything.
Piper was the first to brake the silence, standing up from the bed. "Well miss Vause, I will pick you up at 11 o'clock. Gotta go to work, see you soon!"
Deafening sounds coming trough the speakers flooded the entire house making every object vibrate at the beat of the music. Distant chatter and laughter could be heard, as groups of stressful students tried to out-compete the noise and forget about their academic responsibilities. Little could be seen in the dark beyond ambiguous silhouettes, briefly illuminated by neon flashing lights that traveled around the house in an undecipherable pattern.
Piper grabbed Alex's hand and walked carefully, evading people and furniture while trying to identify her best friend in the sea of faces. Who knew this house was so big!
Finally she heard Polly's unmistakable laughter near the kitchen. She lead Alex as they both approached the small group sitting at the counter holding red cups on their hands.
When Polly spotted her friend she quickly stood up and threw herself into Piper's arms, exuberant.
"Piper! I knew you were coming girl, see?" She gestured to her friends at the counter. "I told you guys, that I effectively convinced her to neglect her books for one night".
Piper laughed awkwardly. She could smell the alcohol in her best friend's breath. Clearly the party had started early for her.
Polly noticed Alex standing quietly at Piper's side, dressed with a black cropped top that allowed a perfect view of her well formed abs. Her long tousled hair make her look effortlessly appealing, and like if it wasn't enough her toned arms were covered with ink and drawings, making her almost impossible to go unnoticed.
Piper widened her eyes when she noticed her friend almost drooling in front of Alex, and not just her, but the group of boys sitting at the counter too. She instinctively grabbed Alex's arm and cleared her throat.
"Um, Polly you remember Alex right? She's officially my girlfriend now"
At the blonde's words Alex raised her eyebrows, unable to hide her surprise. Not that she didn't liked how that sounded, but proud that Piper dared to call her that way. She smiled internally.
"Right! Yes! Of course!" Polly spoke in a high-pitched voice, almost embarrassed at herself. She extended her hand towards Alex.
"It's so nice to see you, um..." She turned around and pointed towards the group of students at the counter. "These are Pete, Mike, Jesssica, Karol and Andrew".
The boys waved clumsily, speaking at unison. "Hi" "Hey" "Hello"
Alex smiled politely and placed her arm around Piper's shoulder, who couldn't help but feel honored to be the only person Alex had eyes for.
Just then a girl walked towards them with a big smile on her face. The blonde knew she took one class with her but couldn't tell which one was and didn't remembered her name either.
Shit! I know it starts with the letter "T".
Her mind was still running when the girl spoke, stopping in front of her.
"Piper! It's so good to see you here, I didn't knew you were coming" She tried to out-compete the loud music.
"Trixie! How are you? It's so nice to see you too"
The girl's smiled faded out, and Piper immediately knew she got it wrong.
"It's Tracy " She replied coldly.
Shit
"Right! Tracy, I'm sorry...
The girl ignored Piper's attempt on amending her mistake and kept walking.
Alex chuckled and wrapped her hands around Piper. "C'mon, big mouth, sit down. I'll bring you something to drink"
"Okay"
Between drinks, dancing and meaningless conversations, the party continued thumping at the beat of some 90's classics. The group was now sitting on the big couches of the living room, listening to Pete's pitiful joke attempts. Actually the only one paying attention to him was Polly, who apparently had drank the required amount of beers to find funny anything that came out of Pete's mouth.
Almost everybody on the house was already drunk. Empty cups and bottles were spread all across the floor, and with little visibility, the combination resulted in a few hammered guys occasionaly stumbling into the ground.
Piper was absentmindedly listening to Karol, who was ranting about the abuse to which according to her, the undergraduate students were exposed in their first years of college, and how they as seniors should start a movement of resistance so the future generations didn't had to endure those precarious situations.
She nodded softly, agreeing with everything the short-haired woman was saying, hoping that she would shut up soon.
Alex was sitting on the couch directly in front of Piper, her left arm resting on the top cushion, an unfinished beer bottle on her right hand, absorbing the blonde's every movement. Her gaze lingered in Piper's exposed legs and thighs, half covered by the fabric of her pink skirt. She studied every part of her body, slowly lifting her gaze upwards until their eyes met, boring into each other's soul.
The brunette threw a wink at Piper, who suddenly felt like there was nobody else in the house, just her an Alex.
The tall woman got up, a bit tipsy by the alcohol in her system, and walked towards the kitchen. Piper immediately followed her, and left Karol rambling on the possible revolt she was organizing.
As she walked towards the kitchen she noticed Pete and Polly who looked like they were eating each other's faces. She rolled her eyes.
I'll be hearing about this soon.
The blonde then stepped into the kitchen and noticed Alex standing beside a freshly placed tray of sausage rolls. When Alex saw her, she tried to speak with her mouth full.
"Pipes, you should definitely try these" She pointed to the one she was holding in her hand, while swallowing the one she was eating so she could speak properly "These are the actual taste of heaven. I don't know what they have, but I haven't tasted something like this in my life"
Piper laughed amused, feeling fuzzy by the amount of drinks she have had already "You are so hungry, that at this point you are finding everything delicious".
"I'm serious!" Alex replied a bit too loud. "Here try them, you'll thank me later" She handed one sausage roll to Piper, who was staring at her sceptically. After Alex's insistence, she reluctantly ate one. The blonde widened her eyes for a moment, before closing them while she moaned in delight.
"Alex! These are unbelievably good!"
The brunette stood in front of her, with a smirk on her face.
"You know what?" Piper leaned closer so she could whisper in Alex's ear, while glancing at her surroundings "We should take them... all of them. Don't let anybody else taste this pieces of glory. Go grab a bag"
Alex smiled, amused by this hidden side of Piper, all playful and puckish. She decided to play along with the blonde and went to the cabinets to find something for packing them. Meanwhile Piper stayed beside the table, warding off anyone who came near the sausage rolls. Alex could hear her making up some terrible stories to a couple of girls.
"I wouldn't touch those if I were you. They are bombs, literally". She looked over her shoulder simulating suspicion, before continuing.
"There was a thin guy here a few minutes ago who ate one, and in seconds, he was running to the bathroom holding his stomach.
The blonde closed her eyes
"Horrible, I know".
The girls exchanged terrified looks and thanked Piper for saving them from a unwanted bathroom trip. Soon they were out of the kitchen.
Alex came back with a big black plastic bag on her hand, and they quickly stuffed all the sausage rolls on it.
"God we are such gannets! Let's get out of here!"
The brunette grabbed two more beers from the fridge and gestured Piper to follow her.
The air was colder outside in the backyard, and it was considerably quieter too. Many couples were resting on small benches, smoking cigarettes, making out... oblivious to their surroundings. Small yellow bulbs hanged from the tree branches, lightening the grass underneath them.
Below the farthest tree, was sitting Alex, resting her back against the wood with an almost empty bag of stolen sausage rolls by her side. Piper was laying between her legs, enjoying the warmness of Alex's body. She could feel the brunette's hand softly caressing her hair. The ease that emanated from Alex was indescribable. Never in her life had she felt so accepted... so loved by someone.
Suddenly she felt an abrupt sensation in her chest, an indomitable urge to express her feelings towards the younger girl.
All of a sudden she turned around, taking Alex by surprise. Her heart thumped loudly on her chest, diminishing every other sound around her. The words splurted out of her mouth without much thought.
"I love you Al"
She stood still, watching how Alex's face expression turned into a mixture of delight and astonishment. A big grin appeared on her face as she gently placed both of her hands in Piper's cheeks. Alex was speechless, and could only manage to mutter her lover's name.
"Pipes..."
The blonde interrupted her.
"I love you Al" She emphasized. "I really do"
The younger girl kept staring at Piper, unsure of when she became so lucky to have the most beautiful girl in the whole world, resting between her legs and telling her that she loved her.
Alex nodded rapidly, words jumping from her mouth.
"I love you too Pipes, to the moon and back"
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AN: Well! I plan to post the next chapter this week, but it is not certain.
Please review! Even a two word review motivates me to keep writing for you guys. You are the best!
