Hello and happy Wednesday!
I'm so sorry for not updating in like over a month. Things have been so hectic and there just aren't enough hours in a day to do everything. But I thank you a million times over for all the support, patience and suggestions you have all given me. I love you all.
Please Read: Now, I'm not one to share a lot of personal details of my life, but I feel like I owe you guys. So, feel free to ask me as many question as you want and anything you want. And in the next chapter, I'll answer them all.
This is also the longest one shot I've written I so far so I hope it isn't too long. Or boring.
It's Allie: Aw, thank you so much! I'm glad you liked and it was one of my favorite ones too!
Guest: Thank you!
Zebragirl: I'm so happy to hear it, sorry it was late and you're so welcome!
Jen2000: Thank you and right?! Thanks!
Laugh instead: Thank you, you know I like a little bit of mystery…lol. Exactly and I like impulse Maya too. I'm glad you liked it!
TashaLove689: Thank you!
Morgan: Thank you and I'm happy liked it! Haha, thanks and I agree!
somuchlovexoxo: Aw, thank you! Right and totally! Thanks!
Guest: Thank you!
Whenitsover: Thank you! Of course they have to go, lol! Thanks and I'm glad you liked it!
Siennese: Right! Sometimes those things are scary and you know Zay…lol.
Ash: So true! Perfectly said and thank you!
Melissa: Thanks.
And a shout out to Siennese for this suggestion!
Enjoy!
Her car was packed, set to go and she was so ready for this trip. Needed the escape now than anything right now. This 'vacation' has been months in the making and finally, she is going to join her friends in the beautiful, or at least she hoped it was, state of Texas. One of her best friends since middle school had invited everyone to his family's ranch for the summer for some relaxation and she wasn't about to let it slip away.
Her two friends were already there, being in careers that allowed them to leave whenever they pleased and she was definitely looking forward to be out of the city for more than a week or two that had nothing to do with work. Oh, how she envied them.
Now don't get her wrong, she had a good life. A great life to those who my look in from the outside. And most of the pressure she was feeling, she did it to herself. With good reason, though. Her parents had very big shoes to fill. She was doing what she needed to do to measure up in their eyes. Though they never said anything or pressured her to be like them, she saw it in their eyes. She knew they saw potential in her and she felt she had to live up to their unspoken expectations.
That is, until she crashed and burned two days ago. Which resulted in this. Driving halfway across the country for a vacation she very much needed and deserved.
She didn't take into account needing stop for gas, food and sleep so what she thought would be a few days trip, turned into a week. And surprisingly, she wasn't complaining.
When she finally reached Texas' state line, she got out her specific directions and drove another three hours before pulling into a ranch. The long dirt driveway led her to a big gray house with a large barn off to the side and a lot of acreage.
She pulls up next to an old, beat up black truck and steps out, desperately needing to get some fresh air and stretch her legs after being in the car for so long.
OoOoOoOo
He hears the vehicle approaching and getting closer to the house as he wonders who it could be. He talked to his neighbor Doug earlier this morning and saw everyone else at church yesterday. He wipes the dirt off his hands and walks out, expecting a familiar face, but when he sees a tall brunette with her hair up in a high bun and dressed casually in a tank top and shorts, his mind suddenly goes blank.
Who was this woman on his property? And what did she want?
Well, there's only one way to find out.
"Excuse me, miss? Can I help you with something?" he questions politely.
The southern accent takes her by surprise as she jumps from the new sound before turning around and seeing piercing green eyes starting at her intently.
When he sees the soft and startled brown eyes meet his, his heart unexpectedly begins beating a little faster and he doesn't know what's happening.
"Hi. I'm sorry to arrive unannounced, but I'm looking for Zay. Zay Babineaux," she finally answers with a calm and friendly tine.
"Zay? He's not here. He left a few days ago with some friends on a camping trip," the handsome stranger replies with a raised eyebrow.
"Oh," the brunette mumbles, rocking back and forth on her heels. "I didn't know that."
"Is he expecting you?" the man continues to inquire.
"Kind of. My plan was to arrive at the end of the month, but I decided to come early. I guess I should've checked with him before driving almost two thousand miles. Well, at least he gave me his address so I'll have a place to stay," the girl responds, shrugging her shoulders.
"Okay, good. Do you need directions to his place?" the guy asks, his politeness still present, but you could tell was wearing thin.
"No, but thank you. I'm already here," the girl shares slowly.
"Here?" the guy repeats, narrowing his eyes at the beautiful brunette.
"Yeah. Zay gave me this address," the girl explains. "Why? Is this not his place?"
"That'd be correct. Miss. This is my place. My ranch," the states firmly.
"Oh, I'm so sorry. I-I didn't know. I-I'll just drive into town and find a hotel or something until they get back," the girl rambles as she quickly spins around and almost runs back to her car in embarrassment.
"Wait!" the guy shouts before she closes her door, not knowing his next move, but feeling an urge to help the girl. "This isn't your fault. I'm sure Zay had a great idea in the crazy mind of his when he gave you my address. And I hate to break it you, but the closet hotel is almost an hour away. I can see you're exhausted, so you can stay with me until they get back. It shouldn't be more than a week."
"Thank you for the sweet offer, but I don't want to impose," the girl yells, half standing out her car.
"You won't be. I invited you. And besides, I never said your stay was free," the guy smirks.
"And what exactly would it cost me to stay here" the girl retorts with raised eyebrows as she stand ups properly and faces the guy with arms crossed over her chest.
"A little bit of this and a little bit of that. So, what do you say?" the guy presses, trying not to get lost in her deep brown eyes.
"I, uh, okay. You got yourself a deal," the girl eventually gives in as she doesn't have many options.
"Okay then, let's get you settled in," the guy smiles, turning around to walk into his house.
She gives a quick nod and then goes to the trunk to retrieve her two suitcases. Once inside the spacious two story house, she gets a small tour and is impressed by the modern appeal and homey feel.
The nice and generous cowboy shows her to the guest bedroom and leaves her to freshen up and relax while he finishes a few things inside the barn. Using this time wisely, she shoots a simple text to her friends, letting them know of her arrival and then realizes they probably won't get it until they're back on the road.
Oh well. It'll just be surprise then!
She takes a hot shower, relaxing from the long drive and then changes into a jean shorts and a red tank top. Something comfortable and casual.
Noticing she's alone, she decides to show her gratitude by making the handsome stranger dinner. Searching the refrigerator and cabinets, she was on a mission to thank him and to show him she won't be a problem. She really wants to start off on the right foot.
OoOoOoOo
After showing her to her room, he had to get away before making a mistake. She was beautiful. There was no denying that. He doesn't even know her, but yet, he feels a certain pull towards her. He's too old to have a 'crush' but that's exactly what this feels like. But he stops any further thinking about this particular situation because he knows better than that. Love is messy. Definitely hard work. And if his parent's relationship was any indication of a real relationship, he never wanted to fall in love. All it does is lead to heartbreak, resentment and words spoken out of anger that you can never take back.
He remembers years ago, when he was still a teenager, Zay would always talk about his friends in New York and there was one girl that always captured his attention. And maybe even his heart. But he stopped himself as soon as it started and from what he recalls, he hasn't heard anything about her since.
Good.
He needs to stop thinking about the past and what could have been and the random girl he let stay with him. Now he only hopes Zay's trip isn't too long.
He busies himself with a few horses, Jungle and Sparkles, who are total opposites, but love each other none the less. It's actually a little sweet when you think about it. One's strong and stubborn. The other sweet and gentle. And both will protect each other from danger and anything else that may threaten them.
He grooms them, cleans out their stalls and tells them what crazy gesture he just did. Both horses nay and nod, but that doesn't help him as he doesn't know what to think. When he finally exits the barn, he sees the sun setting behind the house and can't believe he was in there for so long. As he quickly closes the door behind him, he turns around to head into the house only to see the girl, his guest, standing on the porch and looking at him with a shy smile. She's beyond gorgeous and seeing her standing by the door and waiting for him, that's something he could get use to.
But, no. He's not thinking that far ahead. Or even considering that thought. By next week, she'll be gone and he'll never see her again.
He casually strolls towards the house and when he's close enough, sends her a simple greeting.
"Howdy. Get settled in all right?"
"Yes, I did. Thank you again for letting me stay. And to show my appreciation, I made you dinner. I hope you don't mind," she shares softly as the aroma immediately reaches his nose.
"I don't and it smells great. Thanks. Let me wash up real fast and then we can eat," he nods approvingly, walking past her and sliding into the house as he disappears for a few minutes.
She sets the table while waiting and when he reappears, he's dressed in worn jeans and white tee shirt that doesn't hide his amazing body. She serves him the chili and a salad, grabs her own bowl and plate and takes her own seat as they eat in silence.
It's kind of awkward, but also kind of pleasant to have company. It's a weird feeling that he wishes would go away. He mumbles a few praises about the meal that leaves her blushing and when they both finish eating, he holds her gaze and mutters, "I guess if you're staying a while, it'd be wise if I knew your name."
"Oh, of course," she agrees with embarrassment. "I'm Riley."
"Riley, I'm Lucas," he introduces.
"It's nice to meet you, Lucas. And thank you again for your hospitality. I'll help with whatever you need," Riley assures him, feeling the need to be helpful.
"You too, don't mention it and I appreciate the gesture, but you're a guest. Don't worry about it," Lucas waves off, being the gentleman that he is.
"I know, but I feel bad intruding. I can-," Riley starts to justify before getting cut off.
"Riley, please stop talking," Lucas sighs, taking a deep breath to calm down. "You didn't intrude, I invited you. And if you really want to work, I'll find you something to do, okay?"
"Okay, thanks," Riley smiles, feeling happy that he finally agreed.
"No problem. Now tell me, how do you know Zay? I'm sure you have some good Zay stories," Lucas moves on, wanting to get dirt on his friend. Call it payback from years ago.
Riley giggles and it does something to Lucas' heart, but he pushes the notion aside as Riley shares the basic information and a few good stories. Like, they met in school, not mentioning when exactly and Lucas doesn't question it either. And she lightly touches upon their friends and their lives. She tells him about this one college party they attended when they were juniors in college and how Zay's flirting skills ruined their night. She also mentions Zay's random spurts of wisdom and goofiness as Lucas nods in agreement.
Some things will never change.
He enjoys listening to Riley talk. Her voice is sweet, gentle and she's very animated. Which makes the story more entertaining. He feels a smile tugging at the corner of his lips and he fights it as best he can. But it's hard. And he hates it.
They continue talking for a few more minutes, end up doing the dishes together, in silence of course and then call it a night as both head to their rooms with their minds running a mile a minute. He's intrigued by the optimistic girl and she likes his simplicity as all she wants to do is bask in the quiet, normalcy of his ranch. He needs to stay away from her before this gets too complex and needs Zay to return soon and she wants to embrace this new change with him showing her the way. And as they both crawl into bed for the night, they know tomorrow's a new day. And that means anything can happen.
OoOoOoOo
She sleeps a few solid hours and then just lays there, staring up at the ceiling. This has been morning routine for the past two years. Few hours of sleep and then up before the sun rises. Deciding it'll be best to just get up, she changes into shorts, a loose fitting shirt and a light zip up sweatshirt and heads downstairs to make breakfast for her and Lucas.
OoOoOoOo
He's on the brink of almost being fully awake when the smell of coffee and bacon hit the spot and he instantly jerks up. Getting a quick glance at the clock on his nightstand, he sees it's about his normal wake up call, but is surprised she's up this early.
Throwing on his clothes for the day and straightening up his appearance, he walks downstairs to see a plate already made up for him.
"Morning," he greets with a smile he can't help as he takes a seat and his stomach grumbles by the delicious breakfast.
"Good morning, Lucas," Riley answers in a happy tone.
"Thanks for breakfast, but you know, you don't always have to cook for me," Lucas says in between taking huge bits of his hot cakes and eggs.
"I like cooking and I know that. But I feel like I have to do something," Riley explains, taking a few bites of her food.
"Okay," Lucas nods as he takes a few more hot cakes from the center plate. "Let's give you something to do."
Within the next few minutes, they both clean off their plates and Lucas gives Riley two options. She can either clean inside the house or help him clean outside. She quickly decides to stay inside and does all the house cleaning while he goes about his work.
OoOoOoOo
The next day, Riley helps outside and even gets to see some of animals. There's a peacefulness working on the ranch. A realness that touches her heart. She's enjoying herself and its times like this that she craves the most. The humble, physical and loyal work.
By the end of the week, Lucas' house was spotless and Riley was pretty good at ranching and working around the farm. Lucas remembers at the beginning of the week how he wanted Zay to return home. But now, he wishes Zay to stay away longer than this week so he can have more time with Riley. He knows this is trouble, but he can't deny the way she makes him feel. She broken down walls he can't rebuild and he doesn't know how to react.
OoOoOoOo
Two days after the new week begins, Zay and the others return as Lucas and Riley feel different emotions. The nine days together created a bond between the two as they were getting close to uncharted territory.
The instant the red jeep comes to a stop behind Riley's car, the right back door swings open and a short blonde jumps out and starts running in the duo's direction.
"Honey!" she shouts out, extending her arms.
"Peaches!" Riley echoes as the two girls embrace in a hug.
Two guys follow the blonde's path, laughing and shaking their heads at the scene.
"It's like they haven't seen one another in years," the tall, skinny brunette guy announces teasingly.
"You know those two. It's like they're joined at the hip," Zay continues with a grin.
"Oh, shut it," the blonde snaps, glaring at her friends. "You're just jealous."
"Me, jealous? I don't think so Honey Nugget. Because like you, I also have my own BFF," Zay states proudly as he walks over to Lucas who is standing there awkwardly.
"Oh, right. Huckleberry," the blonde nods, looking between the two with a grin.
"Thanks, Maya," Lucas mumbles sarcastically.
"Aw, you remembered my name, Ranger Rick," Maya smirks smugly. "And thank you, thank you, I'll be here all week."
"How could I forget someone I've never met before who insists on giving me ridiculous nicknames the second we meet," Lucas growls. "And all summer? Awesome..."
"Okay, well, this is getting weird. How about dinner?" Farkle announces, breaking up Maya and Lucas' conversation as he moves towards Maya and Riley.
"Dinner sounds great," Riley agrees, hugging her other best friend.
"I second that. And I know the perfect place. Luke, join us?" Zay invites with a grin as he starts walking back to his car.
"Oh, um," he pauses, looking at the group of people he doesn't know. But the instant he catches Riley's soft smile, he feels his defenses quickly weakening. "Yeah, okay. Thanks. I'll clean up and meet you over at your house."
"Cool. See you in a few," Zay calls out and gives a two finger salute as Maya pulls Riley along.
The brunette is a about to decline her best friend's movements as all her belongings are still in Lucas' house, but maybe this will be the perfect opportunity to still see him.
She gives Lucas a quick wave goodbye and hops in the back of the jeep as returns the gesture with a nod and watches the vehicle swiftly going in reverse and then speeding away from his house.
OoOoOoOo
Dinner is loud, crazy and very interesting. Lucas is slightly surprised by their conversations, but never once feels like an outsider as the four included him in almost every topic. And randomly, during a quieter moment between dialogs, Zay openly thanks him for 'taking care of' Riley while they were away. He waves it off as it's not that a big of a deal, but his heart knows that this past week was one of the best weeks of his life.
They drink, talk into the wee hours of the morning and overall have a terrific night.
Lucas and Riley still see each other almost every single night as Zay invites Lucas over to the house, out with them to dinner or whatever else he has planned. And even though he should have declined a time or two, Lucas wouldn't miss an opportunity to hang out with the group who has rapidly become his friends. Especially Riley. That woman has his heart beating faster and his stomach always in knots and doing summersaults every time he sees her. And that, that's not a good thing. But he's too far deep to let go now.
OoOoOoOo
It's a few weeks later when the night sky is filled with stars and without thinking, Lucas grabs Riley's hand and pulls her with him, away from the others as he takes her to his favorite place on the farm. They run pass the barn, up a small hill and when the sky feels likes it's within reach, the scenery takes Riley's breath away.
You can see the land for miles and Riley feels like this is a dream. A very good dream. It's quiet, beautiful and so peaceful. She looks over some of the property and when she finally looks up to the man that's given her a new outlook on life, their eyes connect for a second and all common sense disappears. She watches as Lucas' head lowering down to her level and as she unknowingly, but consciously stretches up, their lips meet in a simple kiss that send a powerful shock throughout her body. A tingling feeling that makes her feel alive for the first time in years.
"I, um, sorry," Lucas mutters, abruptly pulling back. "That shouldn't have happened."
A flash of hurt traces over Riley's face for a second and then fades as she shakes her head, puts on fake smile and retorts, "You're right. It was a mistake. Goodnight, Lucas," as she swiftly turns around and speed walks back to the house where she's sure her friends will have a million questions.
That night, she finally grabs she grabs all her remaining items from her room and shoves then in a bag so she won't have to see him again. She made a fool of herself, thinking he was different, but she should have known. Guys are all the same. They're not smart when it comes to emotions.
OoOoOoOo
Over the next week, the two avoid one another and Riley is thankful she only has a few weeks left in Texas because it was getting harder and harder to ignore the attachment she feels to Lucas and the state.
Slowly but surely, she's come to love Texas and the city of Austin, but she knows she can't stay. For a lot of reasons. But deep down, she wishes there was a reason for her to change her mind. A reason giving her a second chance to live her life the way she wants to live it. And as she stared out the window of her bedroom in Zay's house, she lets out a long sigh as she knows it's only a dream. Her life will always be in the Big Apple, where she feels like she's drowning.
OoOoOoOo
It's now four days before she's leaving when Zay plans a bonfire type get together in his back yard. They spend most of the day prepping food and when the sun finally goes down, everyone takes their seats outside. Even a very unpleased Lucas is there and as he takes a seat next to Zay with a blank expression, instantly Riley knows it going to be a long night.
After hours of eating and drinking more than they should have, Zay goes into a story from the past that makes everyone laugh from embarrassment and in entertainment.
"I can still see it, Cotton Candy face's face all red as she just starting screaming for everyone to shut up. I don't think I've ever seen her so mad or serious," he chuckles, shaking his head and patting Riley's knee as she blames herself for sitting next to Zay after they all switched places.
"I remember that day too," Farkle joins in with a grin. "Man, I can't believe all the trouble we use to get into."
"It wasn't trouble. Just unfortunate situations," Maya clarifies, clearing the air with a smile on her lips.
Lucas listens and stares at the four as his jaw drops for a minute in shock. This couldn't be happening. Not right now. No. This is his mind playing tricks on him. Getting him back for acting like such a jerk. This couldn't be the same person from all those years ago.
"You're Cotton Candy Face?" he finds himself questioning out of the blue, his eyes holding Riley's as he interrupts the conversation.
"Yeah. Why?" Riley inquires back in a rude tone as she raises her eyebrows at him.
"I, um, excuse me," Lucas quickly announces, bolting out of his chair and storming away.
He doesn't make it very far before he hears her calling his name in confusion.
"Lucas! What was that all about?" She presses, now standing right behind him.
"Nothing of important. Go back to your friends, Riley. Don't worry about me, I'm fine," he speaks relatively calmly, considering he feels a mixture of rage and conflict.
"No, you're not fine. But if you don't want to talk, that's fine with me. Actually, it's probably for the best," Riley voices with clarity and seriousness as she turns around and leaves him, for good this time.
He hears the last few light footsteps and then let's out a string of curses as he knows he just lost something special.
He's not sure how long he was alone, but when he finally returns to the group, Riley and Maya are gone.
"Where the hell have you been?" Zay questions his best friend as he narrows his eyes.
"Nowhere," Lucas brushes the question off and intense stare he's getting. "Where did the girls go?"
"They took off the second Riley came back from looking for you. What the hell did you say to her?" Zay demands roughly.
"I didn't say anything to her," Lucas grumbles, feeling his stomach drop. "Actually, I didn't say what I needed to say."
"What the heck does that mean?" Farkle curiously chimes in and looking between the two.
"You'll know after she does. I got to go," Lucas utters, stopping the conversation and rushing to his truck.
The few minute drive to Zay's felt like an eternity, like the road would never end. But when he turns onto the property and sees some lights still on throughout the house, he takes that as a good sign. Quickly parking next to the familiar silver car, he jumps out and heads to the front door on a mission.
Heavy banging and continuous knocking is heard and after a few long minutes, the door finally swings open to reveal a very pissed off Maya.
"What the fuck do you want, Huckleberry? Haven't you caused enough problems tonight?" she sneers angrily.
"I have. But I'm going to fix it. Please, I need to speak with Riley. Even if it's only for a minute," Lucas admits and almost begs as he's taking a huge risk.
Maya stares at Lucas with a hardened expression, trying to figure him out and when he does budge or fight, she can see there's something more to this story.
"Give me a second," she finally gives in as she swiftly closes the door in his face.
He shifts from side to side, now realizing he hasn't thought this whole thing through, but he knows he has to be honest with her. And himself.
He's having a conversation with himself when the door finally open and exposes an even more pissed off Riley.
"Can I help you, Lucas?" she asks in a brusque tone.
"We need to talk. Clear the air," he declares, holding her firm glare.
"No, we don't. You made it perfectly clear that you're not interested in me and that you don't even see me as a friend. Which is fine with me because I don't want to be friends or interested with a rude, lonely cowboy. And after this moment, I'm glad I won't ever have to see you again," Riley proclaims loudly, tiling her chin in up.
"I'm sorry for my behavior and that you feel this way. That was never my intention. And it was definitely not my intention to feel something towards you. But that's the crazy part of life, you can't predict what you feel. All my life I've seen relationships fall apart, my parents included. I've seen the pain, sadness and resentment and once I was old enough to fully understand it all, I promised myself I would never let my guard down and fall in love. But after we kissed, the emotional pull and connection I felt made me crack because at that moment, I felt something strong, surprisingly wonderful and something I've never felt before. All those feeling I thought I locked away, were hitting me like a dagger to the heart. And now, just hours ago, I learned that you're her," Lucas shares, putting everything on the line and feeling his heart beating rapidly and nervously.
"I'm her? Lucas, that makes no sense," Riley shouts in confusion as she throws her hands up in the air. "I'm sorry about your past, I truly am. And believe me, I never wanted you feel the way you do right now. I can see the battle you're having. But, I can't help you. Now if you'll excuse me, I'd like to get a few hours of sleep before I head out on the road."
"You're not walking away so easily this time, Riley. I have things to say and you're going to listen," Lucas announces confidently as he takes a step forwards and holds her stare. "I'll admit, growing up during my teenage years was hard. I was rebellious and hated the world. But there was one person who always made me see things differently. Put a new perspective in my life. This person was funny, sweet, carefree, energetic, kind-hearted, a little goofy and found a place in my heart. I wasn't one to like someone I didn't know, but this person changed all that. I wanted to be there for them. To protect them. To care for them. And that, that scared me. But I was here and they were there and it seemed like an easy thing to deal with. Until now."
"Until now? I'm so confused, Lucas and frankly, I don't have time for this. Why are you sharing such personal things with me? This isn't like you," Riley questions, crossing her arms and raising an eyebrow.
"You don't see, do you?" Lucas groans, pinching the bridge of his nose.
"Obviously not," Riley hisses, her patience at the end of her string. "So, either you tell right and stop playing games with me or I'm walking back inside and not looking back."
"Fine," Lucas agrees with a curt nod. "You're her. You're the girl, well woman who found their place in my cold heart and changed my life. For the better I might add. I didn't know it was you until tonight when Zay called you Cotton Candy Face. That's what you called you growing up. Every time we talked, texted and emailed; it was always 'Cotton Candy Face, Honey Nugget, Genius 1 and Genius 2'. I never really knew your real name. You and I had a little something going on when it was just the two of us. It was simple, but real. And even when your friends came back we still had that spark. I felt it and I know you did too. But I was scared, obviously so. You saw it in my withdrawal and then this bombshell came and changed everything. I don't know how to explain it or what it all means. But I do know one thing."
"And what's that, Lucas?" Riley pushes and sighs as he just stopped talking. "Because right now, I'm so lost with everything you just said."
Lucas sees the perplexed expression and wheels turning on Riley's face as he decides under his breath, "Yeah, I wouldn't doubt that," biting his cheek and feeling like an idiot for blurting everything out. But hell, he's come this far, might as well finish it. "I loved you before I knew what love was. And that's saying something coming from my background."
"You love me? You don't even know me Lucas," Riley whisper-yells as she clenches her hands into fists. The nerve of this guy.
"That's where you're wrong. I know more about you than you know," Lucas answers without hesitation. "Even with my parents arguing all the time, I found comfort and peace in hearing stories about you and all the school adventures you had. I would envision myself with your group of friends and finding a new home with people I would consider more than just friends, but family. I never wanted to fall in love, but when Zay told me how you made him feel welcomed in New York, I able to find ease in the fact that he wasn't alone. And when I found out your father was you history teacher, I was both intrigued and felt a little sorry for you. I heard stories about your strong friendship with Maya and knew your heart was pure. When Zay mentioned you were getting bullied, it broke my heart. I wanted to be there with you. To protect you, to hold you in my arms and promise you everything was going to be okay. When Zay called my crying that you ate his cookie, I laughed so hard I cried and then in that moment, I wanted to swing you around in my arms in pure happiness that you actually had the guts to do that considering your motive behind the action. And when you learned new facts about Farkle's family history, you took charge in wanting to know more about. Your compassion and drive made me proud. You're generous, caring, loyal and downright amazing and adorable. Everything I look for in a girl, you have it. And it was nice to have those feelings every once in a while. I made me feel like I'm still human. And it was innocent enough. We were thousands miles apart. It was a nice dream to have. And then, I actually meet you and my heart couldn't take it. Feeling were coming to the surface, deeper and stronger and I still don't know what to do. Here I am, spilling my darkest secrets to you and you don't even know the affect you had on my life. Have a safe a trip back home, Riley. And maybe in the future, when we get pass all this, you and I can be friends."
He catches his breath, gives her a small nod, rapidly turns on his heels and speed walks back to his truck as he can't wait to get out of there. He drives off within seconds as Riley watches the truck disappear in the night sky.
"That was some declaration," Maya grins, walking out of the house and standing next to her best friend. "What are you going to do?"
"I don't know," Riley mumbles, biting her lower lip and feeling like everything is out of place.
"I think you do," Maya counters, placing her arm around Riley's shoulder and giving her some much needed comfort.
OoOoOoOo
He throws the last of his tools inside the bed of the truck, thankful he finished the fence repairs before the afternoon heat. He's kept himself busy ever since she left as it the only way to keep his mind from thinking about her all the time. He's surprised to admit that he would've given them a chance. She was everything he wanted in a girlfriend, partner and possible wife. And he meant what he said about loving her without even knowing what the notion was. That's how big of an impact she made on his life.
But now, things are back to how they were before she stepped into his life. And it's for the best. Things happen for a reason. It's just how it ends up sometimes.
OoOoOoOo
She stares out her window on the twentieth floor and watches the hustle and bustle down below. Everything is so chaotic and loud. And at times, it feels like she drowning from the pressure all around her. The constant phone calls, emails, meeting and trials. There's never a moment to breathe. But she knows at the end of the day, she did the right thing. Leaving Texas when she did. Her life was in New York and as much as she enjoyed the country life, she wouldn't fit in. Added to everything she was told that night by the very handsome, yet son of a jerk, Lucas, she couldn't risk her heart.
She couldn't drop everything she worked so hard for, for a 'hopeful' relationship with a rugged cowboy who didn't have much knowledge or experience on the topic. 'But he's everything you wanted in a guy' her subconscious calls out to her.
"No, no, no," she reluctantly shakes her head and getting rid of those thoughts that have haunted her since she left. It's been a month and still, her mind drifts back to the summer when everything changed.
OoOoOoOo
The fall weather arrives with a crisp breeze and as they both look around and elevate their lives, they never imagined it would turn out the way it has. They were happy, er, well content enough, but something was missing. And maybe it wasn't something, but someone...
OoOoOoOo
Evening was upon the land and after getting comfortable after a long and tiring day, the sound of a vehicle coming down the road ruined the quietness that was created. Figuring it was a neighbor or even worse, Zay checking in on him again, Lucas slowly and grumpily gets up, stomps to the door and watches as a familiar car come to a stop right next to his truck.
He waits to see what's going to happen and as the person tentatively and exhaustedly steps out of the car, it was time to put a stop to this once and for all.
"What are you doing here?" he gruffly asks, swinging his door open and crossing his arms over his chest, not looking very pleased.
"I came to see you. I need to see you," the person replies, ignoring the bitterness and coldness he's giving off.
"Why?" he demands, not having the patience to deal with this right now. "We said all we needed to say."
"We did. Or so I thought," the person agrees, holding the firm and unwelcoming green eyes.
"What the hell does that mean?" Lucas questions sharply.
"It means that I made a mistake. Actually, we both did," the person explains calmly and taking a step closer to Lucas who hasn't moved a muscle since they stepped out of the car.
"Trust me, I made no mistakes, Riley," Lucas snaps in a low, deep tone.
"You did. Because if you loved me the way you claimed, you would have taken a chance with me. And believe it or not, I would have agreed. I know you were scared, so was I. Love is a terrifying feeling. But after being separated from you for almost two months, my heart still loves this place, feels like it belongs. And even though we don't really know each other that well, I love you too, Lucas. I gave you my heart the moment you first held my hand. I didn't know or understand what was happening, but I felt the connection, the protection and a sense of being in the right place. You said I changed your life all those years ago; well now, you're changing mine. My mistake was running away. But not anymore. I left my old life behind and I'm ready to start a new chapter, with you. If you'll still have me," Riley confesses everything and feeling both relieved and worried.
His face is blank, he's not advancing towards her and almost immediately she knows this was a mistake. A rash decision to come back with high hopes. But then, in a blink of an eye, he's running to her and before she can even question him, she's in his arms and feeling strong lips on hers.
"I've never wanted anyone else. It's always been you, Riley," Lucas murmurs, pulling back slightly to look Riley in the eyes as they feel a new wave of passion between them.
"We're in this together. You and me," Riley beams, pecking Lucas' lips over and over.
"Always and forever," Lucas promises, more than ready to with Riley, the girl who stole his heart all those years ago.
Two Years later:
The sun was setting over the farm and as Lucas closes the barn door for the night, he not only feels exhausted, but gratified. He never expected for his life to take a complete one hundred and eighty degree turn, but it did. And it was the best decision he's ever made. He remembers a few years ago dismissing the idea of falling in love because of past experiences, but once he found the right one, the girl who changed his life, he was willing and ready to take that leap. He knew it was going to be hard effort to make the union not only work, but last. It didn't scare him though because he was going to do everything in his power to make sure they were solid and united.
And today, his marriage is perfect. Of course there's been a few bumps and arguments along the way, but they were out of love, concern and trying to understand one another, not rage and resentment. He's been blessed with one of the most incredible women he's ever known and every night, he thanks his lucky stars for their surprise meeting. Riley gave him back that fire in his heart. His determination to fight. And his life. They've built a life together and are still continuing as every day their love for each other only grows stronger. Deeper.
And even fifteen years later, his parents similarly rekindled their relationship. No, they're not back together, but they created a friendship. A better, studier one than before because they can't deny that the love is still there. It's just different. They are a family and Lucas was the best thing to happen to them. He was their light and joy. They just lost themselves along the way. They didn't realize their problems were affecting him the way it did. But now, as a family, they're rebuilding their relationship and recreating a bond only a family knows.
And Lucas, he couldn't be happier.
He takes once one quick glance up to the sky and feels a smile gracing his lips and he feels peace. Just peace and happiness.
He turns back around towards the house and is taken back by the oh so familiar scene. Riley, his gorgeous wife is standing on the back porch waiting for him. He remembers wishing for that old scene to become reality a few years back, and today, it has. Along with many more days, months and years to come. He'll never get tired of seeing her, standing there and waiting for him with a smile on her face.
He increases his pace and within a minute flat, he's rushing up the stairs to greet his wife. The love of his life.
"Look, Adam. Here's daddy," he hears Riley coo to their eight month old son who's resting in her arms.
"Hi, Ad. How's my precious boy doing?" Lucas whispers, taking his son out of his wife's arms and then wrapping his free around her waist. "And hello, Princess."
"Hey, Cowboy," Riley blushes, kissing his cheek.
"I love you, Riles," Lucas purrs into her ear as he places a soft and tender kiss to her temple.
"And I love you," she repeats lovingly.
He may have had a rough past road, but it ultimately brought him here. To this moment with his amazing wife and twin boys and he couldn't have imagined anything more picture-perfect. He found his place, his home and his heart with her by his side.
Love is messy and tricky, but also wonderful and awakening. And though you might not believe you'll find the right one, you will. There's the perfect one waiting for somewhere. You just have to believe and be willing to open your heart to new possibilities.
And, there you go folks. Again, I'm sorry for the delay and can't wait to read your questions! Hoped you liked it and let me know what you think.
Until next time,
Missy xx