Much thanks to suburbs for putting up for all my mistakes. I seriously have no idea how she doesn't get tired of the same errors all the time. Also, This chapter goes out to all those reviewers that took their time to type out some words. You really have no idea how much it means to me, I still can't get used to the idea of having so many reviews for PL and Confessions. I love you all.
ENJOY!
Confessions of Danny Zuko
Chapter THIRTEEN: Got me Goin' Crazy
---
"WAKE UP!"
Emma's shrill voice pierced my ears. I lay perfectly still in my bed hoping she could just leave me alone but then she got the ingenious idea of pelting me with a pillow. She'd been trying to get me up for the past hour. At first she was gentle. She would come in at increments saying my name softly. Then, she moved on to shaking my arm. Once she figured out that I was trying to fake sleep she's been hitting me with pillows ever since.
"NATE GREY IF YOU DON'T GET UP THIS SECOND I SWEAR-"
The rest was muffled. I cracked open an eye to see Taylor's hand over Emma's fumming mouth. His other arm was tightly around her tiny body, restraining her from any further attacks.
I would have smiled but it took too much effort. Call me lame but I've been bed bound since I left the premiere yesterday. After Caitlyn threw her shoe at me (somehow that memory brings a buried smile to my face), I pretty much left. I wasn't up for a night full of Caitlyn and Rupert. It seems like I didn't spoil the night because nobody paid attention to the fact that I was absent. Everybody was too absorbed in the idea that Rupert and Caitlyn were together. Thanks to yesterday, I don't think I'll ever get a direct response from Caitlyn to confirm my fears. And do I really want to hear it from her?
Part of the reason I didn't want to "wake up" was because I was afraid that Emma was here to tell me to move on because Caitlyn was happily taken. The only way to avoid it was to pretend I was asleep and that didn't go over too well in Emma's book. Taylor winced and shook his hand as Emma continued yelling at me.
"NATE I KNOW YOU CAN HEAR ME! DON'T THINK I'M THAT STUPID!" Emma yelled.
Taylor sighed, "Em, why did you bite me?"
"NATE! GET UP! YOU'RE JUST AS CLUELESS AND FOOLISH AS SHE IS BUT YOU'RE CERTAINLY NOT AS BRAVE AS HER. NOW GET UP!"
"Nate," Taylor held Emma tightly back with both of his arms, "Hear her out, there's something you need to know."
I squeezed my eyes shut before I opened them. Emma let out a sigh but she didn't stop yelling at me.
"WHAT HAS GOTTEN INTO YOU?"
"Emma? Can it." Taylor groaned, "But there is something you should know."
I gulped. I didn't want to hear it. I half expected to see Caitlyn enter the room to tell me she's with Rupert so that I should really get over her. I mean, I'm trying to get over her. I just haven't gotten to the letting go part. It's hard. Maybe this is why Shane quickly moved on to another girl, to help him forget about Erica. Some things are hard to get over and I still have my doubts that Shane has completely let go of her.
"What?" I muttered.
Emma was released. For a split second I was afraid she might hit me again but she just shoved some tabloids in my gut. I glanced at the covers and I was sick to my stomach. What were they trying to prove? That they could make me suffer a bit more before they break the news? I bit back the pain of the sudden heaviness I felt on me.
"Read." She ordered.
When I made no attempt to follow through on her orders, Emma took a magazine away from me and flipped through its pages. She cleared her throat and shook her head.
"Caitlyn Gellar, the sweet girl who took on a role completely opposite her personality, graced us with her presences here in London. But she wasn't alone. There are several reports that Caitlyn and her friends have been around London but her choice of tour guide has been sending shock waves. Rupert Grint, famous for portraying Ron in the Harry Potter series, has been seen around town with her, and their presence on the red carpet has confirmed that. Rupert graciously escorted Caitlyn on the carpet but it has raised the suspicion of many. Exactly what is going on? Has Caitlyn landed herself a love interest or is it simpler than we thought? The most interesting rumor flying around is that Rupert and Caitlyn have landed roles in an independent film as leads. We hope that these roles are 'romantically involved' with each other because despite the reports of 'nothing going on' between them their chemistry is undeniable." Emma paused, "It's our fault that she's on these covers."
Taylor shrugged, "If we weren't so selfish to be together."
"I mean, we don't have a single article about us because this Caitlyn story is so much bigger than us." Emma rambled.
I was still confused as ever. Emma must have recognized that I was not following the conversation so she lost no time in explaining.
"Listen, Nate. Caitlyn left because of this," She held up the magazine. "I've been through this and it's not a pleasant experience. I think I read the only friendly article. There's more involving you and a huge made up love triangle. You have no idea how imaginative some reporters can get here. The worse part that most people take it as credible because it's basically picture proof."
I scanned the tabloid that had a candid picture of Rupert and Caitlyn that that night club we went to and on the red carpet. In both photos they looked sickeningly close together.
"Left?" I switch glances between Emma and Taylor. "Where is she?"
"She left before it could get worse." Emma bit down in her lip.
I lifted up the stack of tabloids, "This can get worse?"
"I've experienced it and I let it get out of control. Caitlyn won't know how to handle it so I deported her." Emma spit out.
"But-"
Taylor cleared his throat, "And we heard about the little talk you two had. I'm not sure why but Caitlyn told Emma before she left that she wanted to apologize to you. I'm not sure why when you were the jerk."
I glared at Taylor.
"I've been trying to wake you up so you could chase her down." Emma crossed her arms, "Cause I thought you might be a little concerned."
I shrugged, "Should I be?"
Taylor rolled his eyes, "Maybe. Don't act like you don't care because we know you do."
I sat there trying to soak it all in. Clever of Caitlyn to get herself into trouble just as I decided it was time to move on. Of course I cared but I didn't want to run to her rescue because she'll just see me as that same person. I'm not that dumb - I know I'll just fall for her again. I've progressed so much just staying in bed and sulking.
"She's on her way to your brothers' beach house." Emma looked down.
"What?"
Emma fiddled with her hands, "Well you see while you were 'asleep' I swiped your phone and made some calls."
Taylor smiled, "You have a flight at midnight, Shane and Jason are expecting Caitlyn and you'll join them later on. Easy Peasy. Now let's go watch some t.v. before we help you pack."
That certainly 'woke' me up, "You what? Taylor I can't go! What for? And why would you send her to my brothers? That would only attract more attention!"
Emma stepped up, "I made them promise to keep her hidden until this blows over...or until Oprah, whatever comes first."
Promise? I bet Shane would love to promise anything to Emma. I scrambled for my phone and found it in the same place I left it in. I had some calls to make for myself.
---
"Fro Bro, it's all under control. Mitchie doesn't know yet cause we want her to be surprised. I think she's been miserable being the only girl around. Say, what's going on exactly? Emma said Caitlyn needed a break but-"
"I'll explain later. I just need a favor. Promise you'll do whatever Emma said. Plus, if I find a single scratch on her you won't hear the end of it from me."
"Was London not romantic enough?" Shane used his baby voice.
"Oh," I rolled my eyes, "It was romantic."
I was quickly gathering my things to pack. Well, Emma and Taylor were the ones who really were packing. I was only tossing things at them as they expertly folded my clothes away.
"Did ya get me a souvenir? I asked Emma if Caitlyn was bringing me one and she said not to count on it."
"I'll get you something after I see that you guys took care of Caitlyn." I sighed, "Just keep her away from any photographers."
"Did she grow five arms or what? What's going on?"
There was a knock on the door, I paused briefly to watch Emma answer the door. She let in a very unwelcomed guy. Rupert slid in and quickly apologized to Emma.
"I'll explain later. I'm on my way too."
"Too? You're coming as well? Hey, we can hang out at the beach at night! It'll be fun!"
"No Shane, no beach. Listen I got to go."
Taylor neared Rupert and said something inaudible. I quickly flipped my phone closed and walked over to see what brought this guy over. We didn't need any assistance. He did enough to ruin everything.
"I guess you heard." He weakly smiled at me.
I shrugged as Emma filled him in.
"I really hope it doesn't amount to what I went through but just to be safe Caitlyn's on a plane to Cali." Emma explained, "I think New York would be an obvious pick."
I thought back to when Emma explained what had happened to her. In short, her boyfriend left her for some president's daughter or something. While Emma was filming he was basically cheating on her. When she went back home it was a hurricane of bad media. She said something about stalking issues. I doubt that would ever happen to Caitlyn but Emma seemed so convinced about it. When I pointed out that Emma's situation eventually blew over Emma rolled her eyes.
"Caitlyn's different." She said.
So for whatever reason Caitlyn will be going through weeks of hell and bad publicity because this guy thought it was suave to soften Caitlyn up enough to make her like him. I could see right through this guy. He isn't fooling me.
Taylor shrugged, "I'm not sure what to think. I really can't believe that the media is three times as bad here as back in America."
"Did Emma tell you about the time they photoshopped her to look like a pregnant woman and fabricated a story that the father was some night club owner?" Rupert asked. Taylor hung his mouth open and glanced at Emma.
"I think Caitlyn mentioned that." I piped in. I squinted trying to recollect one of the many nights Caitlyn and I stayed up and talked about everything. Back when things were a lot better...
"So then you understand why I made Caitlyn leave?" Emma looked at me.
"She isn't here?" Rupert asked.
I rolled my eyes. For a second, I was glad I was going to be the one flying out to Caitlyn. I would have thrown a fit if it was Rupert instead of me. I shuffled around them and scanned the room for anything I could pack that was mine. I found a couple of shoes I left lying around. Oddly enough, none of them had a pair.
"No, I thought it was best to get her out before things got bad." Emma voiced was low.
"If there's anything I could do-"
I cleared my throat, 'You've done enough."
Emma glared at me, "Nate stop it."
"He's right, it's my fault-"
"It's not your fault. I put the blame on us." Emma pointed to Taylor and herself, "We were selfish enough to egg on the rumors on the carpet just so we could be together."
I rolled my eyes, "I'm going to call a cab so I can get to the airport."
Rupert gave me a look, "You're going now? There's a crowd of fans out there. I was lucky enough to get in here unseen. I find it ironic since my hair usually gives me away."
I race to the nearest window. I pushed the curtains open to find a darkening sky and a multitude of people standing around the hotel. They were holding up signs and faintly singing Grease songs. Emma and Taylor were quickly behind me. There had to be at least two thousand people out there. I know from past experiences that there's a very slim chance of me slipping away unnoticed...and a slimmer chance of swiftly taking off to the airport. There's always an information leak. ALWAYS. I closed my eyes and banged my head softly against the glass. This certainly adds to the complications. Usually, I would have waited it out and rescheduled my flight but Emma insisted that I needed to be there as soon as possible.
"I don't see why I can't just leave with you." I sighed, "It's a day later."
"It's a day too late!" Emma scoffed. "Besides, Caitlyn needs you."
"Did she tell you that?" I asked hopefully.
"No, but I know she does." Emma flatly stated.
Well, what a way to make me feel better. I constantly had to reminded myself that I'm only going to help Caitlyn out because Emma forced me and for no other purpose. I didn't like Caitlyn. I was just as concerned for her as Taylor and Emma. Okay, it's a bit of a lie. I felt this growing knot in my stomach because the way Emma put it, Caitlyn was going to go through hell if this ever reached America. I didn't want to go save Caitlyn. I just didn't. I know if I do I'll be back at square one and I've been progressing soooo much. Then again, I rather be there than have someone like Rupert or my brothers taking care of her. I cringed. I had a feeling that something was going to happen.
"So a plan?" Taylor voiced.
"A plan?" Emma questioned.
He rolled his eyes, "How are we going to get Nate outta here?"
There was a silence as everybody began to think. Heck, even Rupert was pensive. Emma giggled. We all snapped and looked at her.
"Got something?"
She snorted, "It's stupid and cliche. I'm sure I can think up of a better one."
"Can we hear it?" Rupert asked.
Emma frowned, "It's not great."
"Just say it Em." Taylor nudged her.
She crossed her arms, "We can call room service."
"Excellent. Food sounds good." Taylor smiled.
"Let me finish." Emma snapped, "I was just thinking that it would be funny to ambush some workers for their uniforms and use it to sneak away."
I smiled, "That sounds perfect!"
"You can't be serious!" Emma laughed.
Rupert was already on the phone, "Yes? Room Service?"
---
My back ached from the stiff airplane seats. Before I could complain an airline attendant was there to offer me extra pillows. I thanked her before she whizzed off. If you must know, Emma's plan worked. I think she was the only one doubting that it could work but it did. I had to get a horrible make over before I slipped into a uniform. Emma straightened my hair (which poofed back up once I was outside) and gave me the smallest uniform. The servers were quiet entertained to watch me squeeze into pant's two sizes too small for me. Emma stayed behind to keep them busy while Rupert and I tried not to mind the agonizing pain that came with the pants. Taylor was dressed in a business suit and practicing his Italian accent. Rupert and I were to carry his (my) luggage to the first floor. Nobody paid attention to us. Taylor asked for a cab at the back to avoid any screaming. The staff complied. Rupert and I loaded my luggage to the trunk of a cab and Taylor and I took off. I quickly changed out of the ridiculous uniform and handed it to Taylor.
And that's how I escaped. Despite the heavy traffic at the airport nobody noticed Taylor and I weaving in and out of people to reach my flight. I quickly boarded the plane and here I was with three hours left to land in California. I was looking forward to hearing Caitlyn's apology directly from her cause I wasn't sure what exactly she was apologizing for.
I snuggled up to my new pillows when I felt my phone buzz. I took a look at the Caller ID and saw it was Shane. I denied his call and rested my head again. In no time my phone was buzzing again. I looked around to see if anybody would catch me using my phone. I flipped it open.
"Make it quick, I'm still on the flight."
"You're girlfriend has a way of attracting paparazzi."
"Shit."
"So the reason you sent her here was because she ran into the media in London? I have to tell you, I just looked online and some of these stories of her and Rupert were pretty juicy. He sure looks like he's making a move on her. Speaking of moves have you made yours?"
"What happened?"
Shane coughed and mumbled, "Wewereonthebeachandthepaparazzijumpedoutofnowhere."
"The beach?" I shook my head, "I told you to hide her."
"Well," Shane whined, "The waves were fantastic today and Mitchie wanted to spend the day out and we couldn't leave Caitlyn inside by herself! That's rude!"
"Is she alright?"
Silence.
"Shane?"
"Define alright."
A panic settled over me. A flight attendant passed by and I quickly tucked my phone away as I pretended to sleep. The moment she was gone I pulled it back out.
"I have a feeling you guys managed to drown her."
"She didn't touch the water."
"So then what did you do to her?"
"WE didn't do anything. It's not my fault she got trampled by the photographers."
"What!" My jaw dropped, "Shane it is your fault because I told you not to go to the beach! Is she okay?"
"Excuse me sir, would you kindly hang up?"
I looked to find a flight attendant peering down at me. I was caught. I nodded and said my final goodbye to Shane.
"Sleep with one eye open tonight."
---
By the time I landed, reach my beach house, tripped over a multitude of shopping bags, and dragged myself up stairs, I was too tired to bother with Shane. I would just have to deal with him later. The last time I check the time it was nearing three in the morning and all I wanted to do was get some sleep. Time changes have a funny way of messing up my sleeping pattern. I should have been wide awake right now but I couldn't sleep a wink on the plane because I was too worried about what was going on down here. I threw my luggage into the laundry room. I would have to make Jason wash it for me tomorrow. I stumbled into my own room and proceeded to take off my shirt. I yawned and squeezed my eyes shut.
"Hmmm."
My eyes snapped open. It was small but I know what I heard. My eyes landed on the small figure on my bed.
Brown curls.
Heart-shaped face.
Squinting brown eyes.
Crap Caitlyn's awake. My feet froze in place as I watch Caitlyn let out a sleepy sigh and turn to her side. Once her breathing returned to a slow and deep breath, I relaxed. I quickly put my shirt back on as I thought about all those dreams I had of Caitlyn in my bed. I smiled to myself and shook my head. I'm guessing this is a sign. I've heard of people talk about signs and how it leads them to do what they were waiting to do. If this wasn't a sign, then I don't know what is. I could get use to Caitlyn sleeping in my bed. I could just imagine how cinnamon-ly she will leave it smelling. I contemplated crawling in with her but that would only freak her out. I knelt at the side of the bed and watched her sleep. I hope she didn't wake up. Even I think what I was doing was creepy. Can you imagine waking up to someone watching you?
I bit my lip as my hand reached out, but I quickly retracted it before I touched her face. I took a final glance at her before I got up and made my way down to the living room. I saw Jason curled up in a ball on the couch. I sighed and pulled the covers off him. He jolted up.
"Nate?" Jason mumbled out rubbing his eye.
"Why aren't you in your own room?" I asked.
He yawned, "Mitchie's in there."
"Go sleep with Shane. His bed is way more comfortable than this couch." I muttered to him.
I don't know why that convinced Jason to give up the couch but I'm glad it did. Once Jason was gone I quickly crashed down to the couch and everything was dark.
---
"So how's Caitlyn?"
I glared at Alex, "Why do you care?"
She shrugged, "Just, can't a girl be curious?"
Alex smirked at me which lead me to believe that she was up to something. There was something about her that I couldn't quite grasp. Has she changed? Nah.
"Anything dealing with you can't just be out of curiosity." I narrowed my sight on her. I blocked out my surroundings to concentrate on her. What is it... there's something about her, I swear.
"Nate, give it up. People are capable of moving on, even me." Alex sighed and leaned into a huge set piece. I looked around for the first time and noticed we were at a studio.
"Is that so?" I asked, letting out a sarcastic laugh.
"Listen," Alex shrugged, "I'm not sure if you knew but I finally have someone. Ever heard of Chad Dylan Cooper?"
"The jerk?" I thought back to the first time I met Chad. Not the friendliest or humblest guy. Not that I was concerned about Alex but I questioned why she would ever be desperate enough to date Chad Dylan Cooper.
Alex smiled, "Yeah the jerk. I'll tell you right now that he has his eyes on Caitlyn, so you better not leave her."
"I don't think I'd ever leave Caitlyn if I had her." I mumbled.
Alex rolled her eyes, "You will get her and there are perfectly sane reasons to leave her. Knowing how quick you are to jump to conclusions..."
"I am not!" I shot back.
Alex smiled, "Well, you haven't changed much."
"Do I really care?" I sourly said. "And if Chad has his eyes on Caitlyn shouldn't you be jealous?"
Alex frowned, "I am but it's not like I care much for Chad. Things have to get worse before they get better. And I have a feeling that after all this mess is said and done and cleaned up, I'll find someone worth my time."
"That's pretty mature of you," I smiled. Maybe that's what's different about Alex, maybe she isn't out to get Caitlyn after all.
She smirked, "I know. And just to make things more interesting, Caitlyn's going to need a friend after Mitchie leaves."
"Mitchie? What about her?"
Alex groaned, "Just wait and see.
---
"JUST WAIT AND SEE! WAIT UNTIL I GET MY HANDS ON THAT GIRL!"
I woke up to the sound of Shane yelling his lungs off. I peeked out of the covers and saw Jason snorting and Mitchie following Shane's rapid pace. I quickly thought about that dream I had... I wonder what it meant by her leaving. Jason's face brightened up when he saw me.
"NATE! You're awake!" Jason jumped over and hugged me. Shane looked at me and stormed over.
"YOUR LITTLE GIRLFRIEND TOOK MY TRUCK TO GOD KNOWS WHERE!" He yelled.
"Huh?"
Mithcie sat down beside me. She held out a note out in front of her and she read.
"Sorry for the stolen car Shane. I hope you don't call the police on me. I had to go to an important meeting. I'll stop by the hospital, just for you.
-Caitlyn"
I would have been laughing if it wasn't for that last piece of the note. I snatched the note from Mitchie's hands and reread it over and over again. I glared up at Shane and Jason.
"Hospital? What is she talking about?" I asked.
Jason nervously chuckled, "Well you see Nate. Shane did tell you about the paparazzi-"
"I did." Shane nodded, "Remember?"
"You see when they mobbed us at the beach-"
"They were kinda rough-"
"Yeah, I'm not sure how we survived."
"You weren't kidding when you said she was trampled?" I asked.
Mitchie let out a dry laugh, "Not at all. Caitlyn's foot is as big as grape fruit and I'm sure by now it will look as colorful as a rainbow. Let's face it I'm surprised she can walk."
I turned to look at Shane and Jason who shrugged back at me.
"She said she was going to the hospital." Jason defended.
I groaned, "So who took her?"
Mitchie snorted again. Shane looked fuming. Jason just smiled at me.
"Caitlyn's driving herself around." Jason said. "If you ask me there is nothing that can stop that girl."
Mitchie grinned, "Not even a banged up foot could stop her from stealing Shane's truck."
Mitchie and Jason cracked up.
Shane shot a death glare at them and at me, "I'm serious about this. If I get my truck back with one tiny scrape-"
Mitchie roled her eyes, "Shane, you've been in like five fender benders trying to pass your divers test, chill out. How 'bout we sit down, have a nice breakfast and call Ciatlyn non-stop? It's not like we can chase her down right now... I don't have the slightest idea where she could be."
"The hospital, DUH!" Shane spat.
After that we all migrated to the kitchen were Jason made omlettes and bacon to shut Shane up and enjoy the oddly hilarious moment.
---
We were stuffed into Jason's sleek black car, heading over to Disneyland. Mitchie and Jason teamed up together to convince me and Shane to go. All I wanted was to see if Caitlyn was alright and Shane wanted to know if his truck was fine. I'm not sure how those two convinced us to check out Disneyland instead of checking out ever hospital in a ten-mile radius. Mitchie and Shane were arguing in the front.
"Shane keep your eyes on the road!" Mitchie yelled.
"Give me my phone!"
"Not until you're on the right side of the lane!"
The car swerved back into the proper lane before Shane turned into a parking lot.
"Happy?"
Jason poked his head over the seat, "Shane, crash my car and I'll pray that Caitlyn crashes yours. And if she doesn't, I'll make sure that truck doesn't see another driving day."
"Fine!" Shane sulked, "Just give me my phone."
Mitchie handed him his phone as he quickly dialed a number.
"My truck better not be at the bottom of a ditch." Shane yelled.
Mitchie quickly snatched the phone away from Shane who managed to veer near some people walking to the park.
"Drive!" Mitchie warned before she spoke into Shane's phone. "I applaud you. Caitlyn, you are the only girl that would ever venture out to the streets of Cali with a useless foot and a stolen truck... To the beach house? We're not there anymore... Um, on our way to Disneyland? We have a surprise for you!... No, but you have. Psh, it's not like I'm driving around with a broken foot." Mitchie held up a finger to her lips, signaling us to be quiet, "Please come! Jason and Shane and N…I want to spend time with you."
We got out once Shane managed to park Jasons car, I had trouble getting out because Shane left a centimeter of space on my side. I stumbled out on the opposite end and stretched out. We continued listening to Mitchie.
"Yeah." Mitchie nodded and looked at Shane's phone. She closed it and handed it back to Shane and placed her hands on her hips.
Mitchie sighed and looked over at the park. "I'll race you all."
In a second flat four over grown teenagers were racing towards the front booth.
---
"So what brought you here, huh Nate? Does it have anything to do with a girl that is head over heels for you?" Shane grinned at me as we aimlessly walked around the park. I glared at him behind my sunglasses. Funny story, you would think that we would look suspicious because all four of us were wearing huge sunglasses and baseball caps on a cloudy day but nobody ever noticed. All I was wearing was this huge hoodie and jeans. Jason was the only one dressed as his regular self and we hardly got a second glance. Mitchie elbowed Shane in the gut.
"Shush!" She hissed.
"I was forced to come." I replied, "If it wasn't for Emma shoving me on a flight I would still be packing right now for the Oprah Show."
Shane rolled his eyes, "Oh please, quit trying to pretend you don't care. I bet you were going nuts without her so you came down here."
Mitchie narrowed her eyes at me, studying my reaction. Jason gave Shane a look that said you-said-too-much, which was right because Mitchie had no idea that I liked Caitlyn. Her eyes widened.
"Do you like her?" She softly asked.
Shane and Jason cleared their throats and tried to change the subject to ice cream.
"Hey look, the Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor, anybody up for cones?" Jason pointed and left without waiting for us. Shane mumbled something and followed Jason. Mitchie and I stayed in out places. I was trying to avoid her gaze.
"You do, don't you?"
I shrugged, "I'm getting over it. I was being honest when I said I was forced to come here. I didn't want to see Caitlyn because I guess the more I see her the more I want to be around her. So I figured separation was best when I decided not to like her anymore."
Mitchie and I slowly headed towards the Parlor. Mitchie crossed her arms and listened to everything that was coming out of my mouth. It felt like I was telling her I was adopted or something. I was used to having Mitchie give me advice or interrupting so she could say what was on her mind. Not now. She has this small smile on her face while I explained everything that happened in London and how I came to think it would be best to move on.
"I can move on. I just need some time." I sighed out.
Mitchie was about to protest when she took out her phone. She held up one finger telling me to wait.
"Hello?... Where? ... I'm on my way."
Mitchie hung up and smiled at me, "Looks like someone is going to have a rough day of moving on."
Mitchie ran off leaving me to dread the wait. For a guy that likes all the action I hate the wait before. Even if it's a concert, I hate waiting for time to pass by so I can go out and play. This was no different, I was anxious to see if anything changed and if Caitlyn was alright. I marched over to my brothers who were lightly arguing about a flavor of ice cream.
"Thanks for blowing my cover, Shane." I glared, "Mitchie knows now and in a couple of seconds she's going to tell Caitlyn. What am I going to tell her? Huh?" I snapped.
Jason nodded, "It doesn't help that we came here, poor Caitlyn...I'm sure she's going to kill us for making her drive here."
Shane scoffed, "OH. COME. ON! Jason you were the one who suggested Disneyland and Caitlyn had been driving around in my truck LOOOONG before we suggested that she come over here."
"Back to the point," I growled, "I told you to keep it a secret Shane and you made me tell her the truth!"
"I made you? You could've avoided the topic!" Shane yelled back. I plopped down on a chair and shove my head to my hands. This is a disaster. I could have avoided this if I had just stayed in London for a couple of hours more.
"Thing is Nate, she's here and just make the best of it. And if it turns out that she doesn't like you at least you know." Jason patted my back.
Shane snorted, "Or be a chicken and don't tell her, ever. I see it like you have two choices. One, die alone. Two, die alone but at least you know you told her."
Shane is horrible at giving advice. Like I want to tell her now after Shane just told me I'll die alone. Fat chance. I looked back up to find Mitchie pushing Caitlyn towards us. I felt a jolt inside me seeing Caitlyn again. I felt foolish for saying this but it feels like I haven't seen in her in ages when it's only been a day. I glared up at Shane and Jason.
"Shut up." I hushed, "She's coming."
I watched Caitlyn limp her way over to us. Every time she placed her weight on her bad foot her face twisted a bit in pain. So much for Mitchie being any help, she could've at least tried to help her walk. She crossed her arms over a very familiar shirt. I glanced back at Mitchie who smiled at me.
"It's yours." Mitchie mouthed.
"I heard about your foot." I grimaced at her wrapped up foot. Shane wasn't lying when he said it was pretty bad. I vowed to get back at them. I told Shane not to take her to the beach.
"Yeah…you're not the only one." Caitlyn cocked her head to the side.
I didn't know exactly what to say after that. Nobody did. We just stood there waiting for somebody to bring up a topic to talk about. Heck, I was an inch away from talking about the weather. How generic.
"Who wants to ride on the tea cups?" Jason blurted out.
Mitchie and Shane's arm's stuck up to the sky. I closed my eyes because I knew exactly what they planned to do. It was no surprise to me when in a second, I was left alone with Caitlyn who was looking at her feet. I gulped.
"I think something's wrong with them." I looked at the three figures sprinting away from us. Caitlyn nodded slowly and shrugged. I had a feeling she was still mad at me for the way I acted back in London. But Emma did say she was sorry (although I do see that I should be the one saying that) and if she's sorry then she shouldn't be mad. Maybe we could talk this out while we're alone.
"Do you want something? I'll pay." I looked over the assortment of ice cream flavors that the Gibson Ice Cream Parlor provided. Caitlyn loosened up and smiled.
"Thanks." She said. She uncrossed her arms and took a look at the menu. Mitchie was right. She was wearing my shirt. I smiled to myself as I thought back to dreaming of Caitlyn in my bed to actually having her there... and now she was wearing my shirt... it must be a sign.
"Um no problem. Nice shirt by the way." I grinned.
Caitlyn turned a deep red, "I didn't have anything else to wear."
"I thought you and Mitchie went shopping, I nearly tripped over a sea of bags when I came home."
Caitlyn chuckled, "Umm, it's just things... things I really didn't need."
"What do you want?" I looked back at her as the ice cream man waited for an order, "I'm having vanilla."
Caitlyn shook her head, "Vanilla? That's so boring! Give me a rocky road."
The man shoved two large cones in our direction as I gave him my card. He swiped it and Caitlyn and I left to see what rides we could catch.
Let's just say that the first ride was a complete disaster. I'm not sure what possessed Caitlyn to ride a roller coaster. She insisted because the line was mega short. I was skeptical but for a good reason. When we got off Caitlyn was holding back tears and holding her foot. She laughed at herself.
"I guess rides are out of the question." She choked out, "Shame, I wanted to ride those tea cups."
I picked her up and carried her to a bench where she sighed out in relief, "Thanks Nate. Sorry if I ruined your day out because you got stuck with me. I'm guessing that's why Shane, Jason and Mitchie left... You're the only one that can stand me."
I laughed, "Probably."
Caitlyn lightly punched me, "Just because I said it doesn't mean you should agree with me."
I bit on my lip and looked at Caitlyn's shining face. It killed me but maybe it was time let her go. Maybe I should try beings friends like before. I've waited this long, what's a couple of more days? I managed to carry Caitlyn over to the train where we waited for everyone else to be done. Caitlyn joked that it was the only thing she could do without feeling like her foot was being ripped off. She was in the middle of talking about how much she missed being in America when I decided to apologize. It was only right.
"Emma told me about the…stuff." I toyed around with my cell phone "But I want to say that I'm sorry. I was being a total ass but I just wanted some space to think."
"About what?" Caitlyn asked, fully interested in what I had to say.
"Things…" I sighed out. I couldn't tell her.
Caitlyn nodded and played with her phone as well. I bit my lip hard, scolding myself for being vague. I could've said something more intelligent without giving it away... if that even makes sense.
"What time did you get in?" Caitlyn asked.
"Umm, I got home at 4 in the morning." I answered, "Last night. I was about to sleep in my room when I saw that you were there… So I took Jason's spot on the couch. He slept with Shane."
Caitlyn raised her eyebrows and looked back down at her cell phone. I hope she wasn't awake when I was around. Perhaps she did notice me watching her. In a panic I tried to change the subject
"So the note you left," I cleared my throat, "Where did you go?"
Instantly Caitlyn brightened up. She turned to me, trying to hold in her excitement.
"Oh my gosh Nate, you'll never guess who called me." She moved her hands in the air.
"Who?" It better not have been Rupert.
"Oliver Stone!" She blurted out.
"Who's that?" I wrinkled my nose as if this 'Oliver Stone' was some unworthy guy.
"Nobody, really, but he called me to tell me that I landed an internship with Hollywood Records!" Caitlyn squealed and I relaxed. So this Oliver Stone wasn't some big shot trying to whisk Caitlyn away...good. I know it was random but something triggered me to think back to my dream.
"...Knowing how quick you are to jump to conclusions..."
"Oh really?" I finally said.
"Really really! They asked me to come in to talk to Bill Waters right away." Caitlyn smiled.
I closed my eyes. Finally a name I knew. Bill Waters was the head of our recording company.
"Why didn't you just say Bill Waters first?" I asked. It would have been much easier to understand than to go through the worry of an unknown guy calling Caitlyn.
"Well he didn't call me, Oliver did." Caitlyn shook her head.
"I just thought," I paused and shook my head, "never mind. So when do you start your internship?"
So what if I felt a bit protective of Caitlyn? I think any guy would be alarmed if some girl they liked said some guy called her and she looked happy about it. I rested my arm behind Caitlyn's seat. Just in case some other guys were watching and curious if Caitlyn was single. I wanted to close that door quickly. She was mine...well not yet...and well I was trying to forget about her but her getting a boyfriend is not the way I want to go.
"Um, sometime next week." Caitlyn responded.
I looked back at my cell phone to see if Jason or Shane had texted. All day I've been trying to hide their embarrassing texts that asked if I told her already or if I kissed her. I had one from Mitchie that was venting that she was annoyed that Shane was whining to go home already. While I was reading I saw Caitlyn scoot over a bit. It took a lot of energy to keep me from smiling. It felt like those movie scenes where the guy put his arm around her and she scoots in closer...right before they kiss. I looked down at Caitlyn to see if she was waiting for a kiss but she was squinting at my phone. I quickly shoved it back in my pocket.
"Nate!"
"You can't just look at my messages!" I laughed
"Why? Texting some girl you met in London or what?" Caitlyn raised her eyebrows in suspicion.
I pulled my phone back out."Nope. Mitchie was texting me. She's telling me that Shane is whining to go home already."
I showed her the text before I sent Mitchie a response. Before I flipped my phone down, I got another message. It was Mitchie, once again. Except she didn't reply to what I just sent her. I was half way reading through her message when I got another text from Jason. I could feel Caitlyn leaning closer to read.
Mayday, some girl's just asked us if we were Shane and Mitchie.
I think now is a good time to leave. Take Shane's truck. We'll meet you at the beach house.
Nate, I think a group of girls have been following us.
"We have to leave. Jason thinks someone recognized him, too." I closed my phone and looked back at Caitlyn. I took a look ahead and saw that, thankfully, we were nearing a stop. The train hooted. There was a crowd waiting to board. I jumped off once the trained slowed and helped Caitlyn off. I was amazed we weren't trampled by the amount of people shoving to get on. Once Caitlyn was safely on the ground I took her hand and led her away from the train stop. I had to walk at an agonizing slow pace waiting for Caitlyn to catch up. Her limp wasn't helping out at all. So I did what any desperate person would do. I ran back to Caitlyn and threw her over my shoulder and ran. I wove in and out of the small crowd, getting curious looks. I think the buzz was spreading that we were here. Thankfully, before anybody got to react at the sight of me carrying Caitlyn we were in the parking lot racing towards Shane's huge truck. I didn't have to ask where she parked because that how much Shane's truck stood out. I reached out for the passenger handle and discovered that Caitlyn hadn't bothered to lock the truck. Thank god Shane wasn't around to rip her head off. I tossed Caitlyn in before I ran around and climbed in.
"What a way to treat a lady!" Caitlyn crossed her arms. I took the keys she was offering me and turn the ignition on.
"Pink Lady?" I smiled.
Caitlyn fell back in her seat as I drove off, "You're unbelievable!"
As I was driving home, a couple of rain drops hit the windshield. Caitlyn craned her neck to look outside. She pointed out that the clouds looked much darker. I wasn't paying attention to the clouds... I was a bit preoccupied with the road and the fact that nothing had changed between Caitlyn and I.
---
The day ended with a massive thunderstorm. The lights went out, and it was hot and muggy. We had just finished an agonizing game of shadow puppets. I'm not sure how late it was. I rested my head on Caitlyn's lap and time flew from there. The last time I checked it was 5 in the afternoon...right when we got home. It had been a couple of hours since everybody left. Even Caitlyn left to go sleep in my bed again. She asked this time but even if she hadn't I would have loved for her to sleep there again. Before she left for my room, I had this undeniable urge to kiss her before she left. And I did... on her smooth cheek. Her reaction lead me to believe that maybe she still had some feelings for me. She smiled and forgot to tell me a 'good night' too. If I made her speechless then that would mean that she...likes me right? It was only a small kiss. It was nothing like I experienced when we actually kissed but it was a glimpse. I sat there watching the single candle flicker. The power was back on. I noticed when I went to get a bite to eat. There was finally a comfortable temperature in the house. Sure it was nearing Christmas but Southern California never really gets that cold. I don't know why we didn't open a window to let a fresh breeze come in.
I went back and forth from playing my guitar outside at full volume and strumming a new song inside. What was I doing? I was seriously contemplating Caitlyn. There was no doubt in my mind that I liked her. But is there a slight possibility that I love her? Do I? So much for getting over Caitlyn, I knew this was going to happen. I knew the moment I was back around her I'd just be fall for her again. I gave my guitar a last strum before I gave Caitlyn another thought. I was in the middle of listing the reasons why I should move on when I heard small footsteps sneaking up behind me. It wasn't a surprise when I heard her voice calling out for me.
"Hey Nate."
I turned around to see Caitlyn in another old t-shirt of mine. Caitlyn shyly twisted her feet (well foot, if you're excluding the injured one). I took in the way she made this stupid feeling come back. And then at the point I realized. Whoever said it was horrible to fall in love with your best friend?
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We're almost to the end of PL! Months of waiting for this moment! I can't wait until you guys read it.
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