A/N- I know, I know. Forever long time since you've seen one of these from me. My apologies. My life is a ball of chaos. So much, that this post has been in the works since I last posted. So yes, three months or so to write and finish it. I made it extra long as well, to make up for the time.
Thank you to everyone who gave suggestions and I've selected the few that I'm going to use first. They should appear within the next chapter or two. And as I said, everything will be credited. Now on to FOF's, and if you gave a suggestion, I will NOT be responding to that part of it. You just have to wait anxiously to see what I selected. ;P
FOF's!
hugbuddy13- I know! But I'm so bad at moving the time line along! I've been trying to do more of the whole, 'weeks later' kind of thing so that I can advance their relationship a little more. But it's so difficult with how much I spend on one damn thing, and make that one damn thing last for 2-3 chapters. I'm frustrating myself even haha. But it will come. =)
somthgIlike2do- I know I know. haha. Soon enough! lol Thanks for giving some ideas! =)
ConcealedAttraction- First off, awesome name! And thank you for reviewing, since I don't remember you doing so before! =) Your ideas are in no way lame darlin! Thank you for taking the time and giving some! =) And I'm glad you're ok with the pace they're moving at. But eventually I WILL get them there. haha. Please continue to read. =)
LifeLiveLoveLearn- I agree! Aiden is a douche! I felt like making him more of the bad guy, because I decided I wanted a Kyla/Glen pairing in this story. =) I think they're cute together in my opinion. haha. As for Ashley's qualities that you admire, I'm glad you do. I wanted to make sure I included career stuff, because eventually it will play a factor in the girls' relationship, so I needed to develop some of both of their focus' now and what not. =) And I love an anything Spashley as well! haha. Glad you enjoyed the last chapter. =)
Irishgrl33- Glad you loved it! =) And thanks for giving some ideas too! =)
Fifitehvampire- You're welcome for the BDay wish! I'm glad it was a blast, and I'm glad you liked the last chapter! Enjoy this one. =)
Charliefan- Thank for reading and being a new reviewer! =) I'm glad you're liking it! And yes, they have amazing restraint. But it shall hopefully happen soon enough! =)
Coachkimm- Hahaha.. No I suppose I don't, seeing as I know what it is you're waiting for, as is everyone else hahaha. But thanks for still reading! =)
chris- Here's that post, thanks for reviewing! =)
chris501- Sorry it wasn't "soon". =/ Enjoy though! =)
imaferrari- I know, I know. It is about that time eh? It's not this chapter, however. Sorry. xD But they are about at that point, and hopefully soon, I'll be able to write it in. =) Thanks for leaving some ideas. =) Enjoy!
fancon89- Don't get in trouble on my behalf! I'd feel bad! haha. But I'm glad it gives you something to do while you're bored in class. lol And thanks for being a new reader as well! Enjoy! =)
ashikinz- Thanks for reading, loving it, and reviewing as a new reader! =) Here's that update for you. Sorry it's not timely. ha but here it is anyways. Enjoy! =)
lilbit1016- Thank you for reading and reviewing! Glad you're loving it so much. =) Enjoy this new update!
And to everyone else who are silent readers, thank you. Everyone who reads makes my writing worth it. Especially you reviewers! So a big thanks to you guys who come back after my excessively long absences! =)
Enjoy this chapter! Definitely some sweet moments and revelations in this chapter that I think you guys will enjoy. Otherwise some of it is setting up later chapters. And next chapter hopefully opens up some of the drama! ENJOY! =)
peace&love
-Mel
"UNTITLED ENJOYMENT"
Spencer's POV
I'm sitting in class right now, bored out of my mind while the teacher drones on and on. I'm taking notes here and there, but I'm just not in the learning mood today. Instead my mind is on other things; more important things, in my opinion. These things being Ashley related, of course.
But it's not on just any one thing about her; I keep thinking of quite literally everything about her. About the way she makes me feel, about the way her smile alone can change my whole mood -making it drastically better. The cute facial expressions she makes when she's confused or concentrating really hard on something. Or how sometimes, when I wake up in the morning, I'll find her watching me. And not in that creepy stalker-ish way, but in that adoring kind of way. She seems to have this twinkle in her eye, and for a second I wonder if our thoughts match -that we're both wondering how we got so lucky. She also has this habit of randomly pressing her nose against my neck and inhaling sharply; she does it to smell me and tickle me at the same time and in the end we're both giggling at her actions.
All of these things just keep racing through my mind. And while I let them engulf my thoughts; I also scold myself every couple of minutes for letting my mind get carried away while I'm in class. It's bad enough that I have to have my teachers e-mail me my work more often than I'm able to be in class; so I should at least have enough respect to pay attention when I'm actually here. But if you had my girlfriend, I think you'd be just as screwed as I am when it comes to uncontrollable thoughts.
Sighing, I do my best to focus my attention back onto my professor while he wraps up his lesson for the afternoon; before assigning homework. Once he dismisses us, I start to pack up my belongings when I notice a shadow appear over my desk. Looking up; I find someone I'd rather not talk too standing over me.
She's just staring at me curiously and I roll my eyes as I stand up; slinging my bag over my shoulder. "Is there something I can do for you Roxanne?" I ask my ex-girlfriend, Kelsey's, cousin.
She remains quiet for a long moment. "You look happy." She finally states after I've shifted my feet a few times in impatience.
I falter for a moment, studying her expression; trying to decide how much I should say without sounding rude, but while not giving too much away. "I am happy." I state simply.
"That's good." She nods once. She never really was one to say much, but even in the few words she did speak, she was always profound and got her point across in a short and simple manner.
Not being able to keep my complete curiosity at bay, I tilt my head, "why exactly are you saying this to me?" I ask.
"You've just had this new glow to you recently. Something I haven't seen on you since my cousin hurt you." She states bluntly, but not in a hurtful or rude manner. And the fact that she doesn't try and protect her cousin's faux innocence doesn't go unnoticed either.
"I've been happy for months now Roxie. But you're right in the sense that I have more of a reason to be lately." I tell her, giving away only what I need too. Even if she's a neutral party, I know this will still get back to Kelsey either way.
She gives me a friendly smirk. "I'm glad. Kels never deserved you" She states the last part with a softer tone; breaking eye contact for a brief moment.
"It's in the past. What's done is done." I tell her, my body going rigid because of the topic alone.
I have no problem with the girl in front of me who just so happens to share the same bloodline as my last girlfriend. But Kelsey did hurt me pretty badly, and the fact that her cousin is talking to me randomly, sets my mind in gear. And though she may be a neutral party, it doesn't mean she couldn't have been put up to this either.
"Well I'm glad you're happy." She states once more before turning and walking to the front of the classroom and exiting.
I stare after her, my mind still in a whirl. Roxanne isn't one of those kinds of girls you plague as completely normal; so her coming to me randomly isn't as shocking as it would be if it were, say, one of Kelsey's best friends. But it's still shocking all in the same that she'd even bother to say something. Which still brings me back too, "does Kelsey have something to do with it?"
Shaking my head, I make my way out of the classroom and head towards my car. Just ready to be home and relaxing in Ashley's arms.
As I start the car and begin to pull out, however, I remember that she's in the studio with Boys Like Girls today. It's supposed to be their last day recording. Before they leave it to the producers to finish it off and do all the editing.
I decide to call Madison and see what she's doing.
"Hey chica." Her Latina voice answers happily.
I smile at the sound of her being happy. "Hey, what you up too?" I ask as I direct my car into the heavier traffic on the freeway.
"I just left a lunch date with Alex. You?" She asks, and I hear the sounds of a door opening. She's probably just getting home.
"I'm on the freeway, heading home from school. I just wanted to see if you wanted to spend some time together today. Ash is at the studio, and we haven't had a beach day in a while." I smile to no one.
"That sounds perfect. I need some alone time with my best girl anyways." I hear her satisfying sigh.
"Alright, I'll be home in fifteen. We'll go then."
"Ok, see you soon." She disconnects the call.
-X-X-X-
When I get home, Madison is ready and waiting for me in the kitchen.
"Hey, I made you a sandwich. You want it now or later?" She asks as I see her putting some grapes into a smaller container, before putting them into a small cooler.
"Now would be great. I'm starving!" I express. "But I'm gonna go change really fast and drop this in my room." I tell her as I turn from the room.
When I come back down stairs, my sandwich is sitting on a plate next to a bottle of water and Madi and the cooler are missing. I shrug my shoulders and sit down to eat. Half way through my sandwich, she walks back in and sits next to me.
"As soon as you're done we can leave. Already got the truck packed with the cooler and some beach gear."
"Alright, almost done." I tell her before taking another bite.
Minutes later, we're on the road and heading toward the beach.
Once we're settled down on the sand, and soaking up the bright rays of sun; I bring up my encounter with Roxanne today.
"You'll never believe who talked to me today after class." I tell her vaguely.
"You're right, I give. Who was it?" She laughs.
I chuckle before answering, "Roxanne."
"No way!" She exclaims and props herself up on her elbows so she can scrutinize my face. "Are you serious?"
"Yep. She decided to tell me that she noticed how happy I've looked lately. And that she thinks I'm glowing." I tell her seriously. Not finding anything at all funny about her doing so.
"Wow. Well did you say anything specific to her?" Madi asks me, as she relaxes her posture and lays back down again.
"Just that I've been happy for a lot longer than she's realized but that I do have more reason to be lately. I didn't want to give too much away. Because Lord knows if Kelsey put her up to it, or if this is just Roxanne being her unusual self."
"Well that's definitely true. Roxanne was always a hard one to read. Quiet one of the group too."
"What was even more weird, is that she faltered for a second."
"What do you mean?" Madison asks, now turning her head to meet my own gaze head-on.
"Right after I told her that I am happy. She told me she's glad, but that she also thinks Kelsey never deserved me. But when she said it, her voice got softer and she broke eye contact for a moment. Almost as if she was embarrassed to say it or something."
"I always thought she had feelings for you." She states as if it's common knowledge.
"No way!" I deny.
"Yes way! You remember the one night we all went out together and I mentioned that she was acting strange?"
I merely nod, vaguely recalling the memory. "What about it?"
"Do you remember why I told you I thought that?"
"I think I was drinking that night. So I don't recall everything, no." I'm trying to remember.
"Every time you guys acted intimately; whether it was dancing provocatively, or kissing or whatever it is, she had this jealous look on her face, or she would look away so she didn't have to see it. That was the last time she went out with us."
"You're definitely right about that last part. Actually, now that you mention it, I remember seeing them argue that night. When I asked Kelsey about it, she shrugged it off as if it were nothing. But I saw the look on her face -like she was upset that I was questioning it. When we went out the next weekend, her and I got into a fight about her cousin, just because I asked if she'd be joining us again. I always wondered why we got into that fight. She had let it go and blamed it on her hormones; saying she just wasn't thinking straight and what not. But she thought that I wanted her there didn't she?" I ask Madison.
"Probably. She more than likely thought something was going on since you showed interest in whatever her cousin was doing. And since she obviously knew that Roxanne was into you, she thought it was mutual or something. She must've told Roxie to stop coming around."
"Huh. Wow. Ok, well even still, what was the purpose of this morning then? If she's liked me this long, why is she suddenly talking to me? Why not approach me sooner?" I question.
"Who knows? Maybe the whole, cousin's ex off-limits kinda thing. I mean despite their fight, I'm sure Roxie still had respect for her cousin and didn't want to betray her more. And why are you so concerned anyways?" Madison asks, giving me a look.
"Not for any reason you're obviously thinking. I'm with Ashley, and that's not going to change for as long as I can help it. It's just so strange that she'd say something now and not months ago. Which is still what makes me think that maybe Kelsey had something to do with it."
"Well if that's what you think, then just stay away from her. Cause knowing Kelsey, she's probably just trying to mess with you, and mess up your life. You don't need that or her drama. And you definitely don't need her coming between you and Ashley."
"Definitely. I'll be careful though. Promise." I tell my best friend before we both settle into comfortable silence.
-X-X-X-
When we get home from the beach, I jump into the shower and wash off all of the salt and sand. When I'm done, I step from the bathroom into Ashley's room wrapped in only a towel. At the same moment, Ashley walks in the bedroom door.
"Why hello gorgeous." Her teasing smirk spreads across her face. "I need to come home early more often if this is what I'm greeted with."
"In due time, you'll come home to me in even less." I demonstrate by pulling the towel away from my side to reveal my bare hip and side before winking and tucking it back around me.
"Such a tease." She groans dejectedly, but then saunters closer to me and wraps me in her arms. "But oh how I love it." She whispers against the damp skin of my shoulder before nipping at the skin.
"I'll remember that as well." I snicker when she elicits another groan in protest. "You're just full of secret desires today aren't you love?"
She pulls her head back to shoot me a look that says 'don't be a smartass' and I just give her my cheesy grin. She rolls her eyes and smirks, before kissing my lips.
"So you guys are finally finished with the demo?" I ask as I attempt to pull from her grasp.
She nods and holds me close to her own body. I feel her fingertips trailing up the side of my right thigh and underneath my towel, onto my hip. Goosebumps erupt across my skin and I nearly shiver at her soft touch. I know she's showing great restraint as well, because I can feel her fingertips trembling to go just a few inches further south.
"That's good." My voice is thick already. Licking my suddenly dry lips; I catch the teasing smirk on her own lips. "You're not funny. ." I begin to say and then feel as she uses her nails from the same hand against my hip bone. My knees nearly buckle from the sensation her hand is causing and she locks eyes with me. "Ok, ok. You win!" I relent before pushing her away.
She chuckles before finally releasing me completely and walking over to her closet. "I knew I would." She replies cockily.
"Talk all the shit you want Davies, but you won't be very coherent when the time comes." I retort, but the threat comes across weak because of my lungs trying to kick start again.
"Is that so?" She asks, her arms are crossed against her chest and she's raising her eyebrow at me in that sexy way she does.
"Oh it's so baby girl, and I guarantee it'll be you saying that I win." I continue, finally regaining control over my voice.
"Alright. Prove it." Her voice is low and besides the obvious challenge from her words, her tone is challenging me as well.
I know how bad she wants me, just as she knows how bad I want her. But we both know that going at it because of hormones is not what either of us wants our first time together to be like. We know that the obvious chemistry will be there no matter when we decide to finally give in. We just want to make sure that when we do finally close off the gap of complete intimacy, it's when our relationship is completely stable. And that's not saying that we're unstable or even the tiniest bit rocky right now. We'd just much rather have a solid foundation so that sex won't tear us apart like it does other couples. But we both know we want each other. We both know we want each other bad.
"Don't worry, I will." With that, I turn from her and head towards my dresser on the other side of the room. Releasing a deep breath along the way.
I pull some boy shorts from the dresser and slide them on underneath my towel. Then I grab the matching bra and clip it on around my towel, before pulling my towel off of me and pulling my straps on. I can feel Ashley's eyes on me, and I know they've been there the entire time as well.
"Are you done staring yet?" I ask her smartly.
"No." I hear her simple reply. "So what did you do today besides class?" She asks as I hear her moving around the room.
"Me and Madi went to the beach for a little while. Got some sun. Hence the early shower." I tell her and we share a smile when I turn around. I pull on some jean shorts and then put one of Ashley's tank tops on; inhaling her scent.
"Sounds like a fun day." She sits on the edge of the bed, her feet resting on the decorative chest and beckons me over with a smile.
I move over to her and she guides me to turn around and sit on the chest in between her legs. I smile like a fool when I feel her begin to brush my hair. "You're such a charmer." I finally tell her.
"I know. But I work the hardest at it only when it comes to you." She replies sweetly.
I bite my lip. "Well it works for you." I whisper back and I don't have to look to know she's smiling.
We sit in silence for a bit as she continues to brush my damp hair. I know she's done when she wraps me in her arms and kisses my cheek. "Have any homework to do tonight?" She whispers against my skin.
"None that's due tomorrow." I reply as I turn my head and then connect my lips with hers.
"Perfect. Let's go out to dinner tonight." Her eyes light up and I smile in return.
"Sounds even more perfect. What'd you have in mind?"
"Casa de Carlin's." Her smile is cheesy now as she pulls her head back some to gauge my reaction.
"Dad called you didn't he?" I chuckle.
She shakes her head 'no' in a faux innocent manner and then bites her lip and nods upon my look. "He did," she laughs and I roll my eyes, "he said he wanted us to come over. He knew you had class and didn't want to bother you."
"What time does he want us to be there?" I ask sweetly.
"In about an hour. He said he's cooking chicken alfredo and you know how much I love the stuff!" She chuckles some more.
I nod before kissing her cheek. "Yes baby, I know. Well you go freshen up and I'll change and meet you down stairs then." I give her a smile.
She nods her head in agreement before kissing me. When I attempt to pull away, she takes my face gently between her hands. "No wait," she says before I can stand.
"Yea?" I ask with an eye brow raised.
"Just a few more minutes." She whispers before kissing my lips again.
I smile into the kiss and happily oblige. Kissing her fully as I let my body melt into hers. She pulls us back onto her bed and we lay on our sides, entwined by our legs with our stomachs pressed together.
-X-X-X-
When we arrive at my parents' house just over an hour later, my dad greets us as I let us in. "You guys made it!" He expresses happily as he kisses both of our cheeks in the entry way.
"You know I could never say no to amazing home cookin dad! Besides, you convinced Ashley when you mentioned chicken alfredo." He and I share a laugh and Ashley lightly blushes.
"Whatever convinces you two to join us! And once you try this alfredo Ashley, you'll never want to try anyone else's!" He tells her excitedly.
"Well I most definitely can't wait Mr. C." She replies with a wide smile and I kiss her cheek before we all head into the living room.
"And how many times do I have to tell you that it's Arthur?" He reprimands her lightly and she shrugs.
"Old habits die hard." She murmurs and he chuckles.
"Hey mom." I say to Julia as she stands to hug me and then Ashley.
"Munchkin is upstairs." She tells me immediately and I nod with a smile before turning to go and get her.
"So how have things been Ashley?" I hear mom ask Ash as I head up the stairs.
When I walk into Peyton's room, I see her wide awake in her crib, reaching for the over-hanging toy. "Well look who's wide awake this evening." I call as I reach into her crib.
She smiles upon hearing my voice and reaches her arms up for me. She starts making different noises and I smile widely at her.
"Oh you talk now huh? I'm gonna have to tell mama and dada to start texting me when new things happen. They've been keeping sissy Spencer out of the loop. Yes, yes." I tickle her tummy and my favorite little giggle escapes her lips with a wide smile. I kiss her cheek before holding her up on my arm and carrying her down stairs with me.
When I get into hearing range, I stop short at the sound of Ashley's serious voice. ". . I just want you guys to know that I am completely falling for your daughter and I want you to know that she's safe with me. I understand your worries about us living together at the moment and how that can be unstable for us since we've only just started seeing each other. But we're extremely careful with our relationship and with making sure that we also give each other space. I know her and Madison are still intent on finding their own place again, but I'm not going to lie and say I want her to go. Because it just might kill me once she's not in my arms every night to sleep with. She's become a big part of my life in such a short amount of time and that is a scary thing, because there are days when we learn a lot of new things about each other. And days when we can guess or already know how the other is. But some people say that you never really know a person until you live with them. And to me, that's an advantage in our relationship, because ours started with us living together. Spencer and I understand each other in more ways than I can imagine, because we both know what we want in a partner with our types of careers and I feel that we both give that to one another. Our understanding gives us an advantage as well." There's silence for a moment as I imagine my parents let that sink in, and I also notice the pull of tears in the back of my throat. "Just like I also know that Spencer is standing near the stairs right now and heard all of that." She says and they all laugh, including me.
I walk into the room as three heads turn to look at me. "Guilty. I didn't mean to eavesdrop, but I heard you talking as I came off the stairs. I didn't want to interrupt, but it sounded too good to not listen in on." I bite my lip and Ashley chuckles.
"It's ok gorgeous. It's no secret that I'd keep from you. Your mom and dad were just worried about a few things that I assume they were too scared to approach you about, so I was trying to put their minds at ease." She looks into my eyes as I sit next to her. "I didn't mean to make you cry though baby." She says as she wipes at a tear that managed to escape.
"Never bad tears Ash. What you said was just so touching, and so true. I do, however, wish you guys would have felt you could come to me if you were worried about our relationship. The last thing I want is for the two of you to worry about me in any way. But Ashley is right. We're doing extremely well together and living together this early has given us an advantage and has been a crazy adventure, as well. But she's right when she tells you that we've been being careful and not pushing limits, because we want to assure ourselves and each other that we're serious and that we have a solid foundation to build on." I look at Julia, before I turn and lock eyes with my father.
I see the wheels turning in his mind. He knows to trust my better judgment, but I also know that he can read me like a book. So I'm making sure to hold eye contact with him because I know he'll see no trace of doubt or lies in my eyes. He knows lying isn't something I'm good at when I'm close to someone.
"Ok." He finally nods after a moment and gives me my favorite wide smile. "You know I trust your judgment Spence. And I know you won't willingly stay in a situation that does not suit you. I could tell from the moment we met Ashley that she was more than just suitable for you. So as long as you ladies are making conscious and careful choices, then I'm sure you will be fine. And though I know, for the both of you, it will be hard if Spencer moves out as planned; I also think it is still something you should experience as a couple. And if you feel after some time that you truly can't be away from each other, then bring your lives back together under one roof."
We both listen and then share a look.
"Ok." We both say simply. Knowing that it's not a harsh request or form of advice.
"Ok." He says with a smile. "Now, please let's change the subject. How's work sweetheart?" He asks.
"It's ok. Not much has been going on, so I've just been attending classes like a normal person this week. They haven't called me in on any special assignments but they did mention a show in London that's happening in a few weeks time."
"Oh, you didn't mention that sweetheart." Ash says as she takes Peyton from me.
"Sorry love. I was waiting till I got more details on it. Because they weren't specific on anything. So I wanted to wait and see." I give her an apologetic smile.
"It's ok." She gives me a genuine smile before making noises; causing my baby sister to giggle.
"And how's the song coming along Ashley?" My mom asks.
"We finished recording today actually! I'm so thrilled with it. I can't wait till they let us know it's done so we can listen to it." She replies with a proud smile.
I lean into her side and she kisses my temple before continuing to play with Peyton.
Just then the doorbell rings.
"Who else did you guys invite over?" I ask with a raised eyebrow. When I turn to look at my dad, I see him trying to hide a smile.
"Well why don't you go get the door." He nods towards it and I give him a strange look before turning to stand up.
As I do I notice Ashley's expression also. "You're in on whatever this is aren't you?" I ask her and she just shrugs. She pulls her lips in to prevent the smile that's still obviously there.
"Just go get the door babe." She says as the bell goes off again.
Rolling my eyes playfully, I walk back into the foyer and approach the door. The anticipation keeps me from checking the peep-hole first and I just wrench the door open.
I yelp in perfect surprise when my brother Clay, his wife Chelsea and their son De'vaughn are standing on the other side with wide smiles.
"Auntie Spen'er!" My three year old nephew exclaims and begins to lean away from his daddy and toward me with wide arms and an even wider smile.
"De-Man!" I exclaim with a laugh and take him into my arms, before smothering him in kisses.
He giggles uncontrollably before I just give him a big hug. "I've missed you!" I tell him as I look up at my brother and sister-in-law. "I've missed you guys too!" I say excitedly as I pull them into one armed hugs individually. "Come in, come in!" I tell them and usher them into the living room with the rest of us. "You guys are sneaks! Why didn't you tell me Ash?" I say with an unmovable smile as I come around the couch.
"And miss this awesome look on your face? No way!" She replies before standing next to me and kissing my cheek. "Surprise baby." She whispers in my ear.
I just give her a smile before looking at my nephew who has now snuggled into my shoulder shyly. "Ash this is my nephew De'vaughn, my brother Clay and my sister-in-law Chelsea. Guys this is Ashley." I introduce them all.
"It's great to finally meet you." My brother says with a kind smile.
"We've heard so many great things about you already." Chelsea adds as she wraps her arms around one of Clays.
"I've heard so much about you guys as well. It's so good to finally meet both of you. Spencer speaks highly of you both." Ash directs a smile my way.
"Likewise." Clay says with a wink and we all chuckle. "And if you don't mind, can I please steal my beautiful baby sister from you!" He says as he steps away from Chelsea to take Peyton.
"By all means." She says with a smile and holds her out for him to take.
Chelsea moves over to Julia, "Hey mom." She says in her usual cheery voice. "Dad." She giggles as they hug. "We've missed you two so much!" She expresses as she sits down next to Clay who's playing with Peyton just as Ashley had been doing minutes before. "And I've definitely missed you too Peyt." She tickles her tummy, causing her to giggle.
"We've missed the both of you as well." Julia replies as she sits back down again.
"De'vaughn, aren't you going to say hi to everyone else?" Chelsea laughs and he looks over at his momma. Then he looks towards Ashley and wraps himself back around my neck. "Maybe not. He'll warm up to you Ashley. He's like this with all new people." Everyone chuckles some.
"De-man, do you wanna give Papa a hug?" I ask as I rub his back.
He merely just nods his head so I walk over to my dad. "My best boy!" He says and De looks up quickly with a wide smile upon hearing him.
He turns and opens his arms out to his Papa. My dad takes him and hugs him tightly while rocking him; causing my nephew to giggle. I go stand back next to Ashley, and lace my fingers through hers.
Clay is telling a story about something that happened on his flight, and Ash is completely engrossed in it. But I watch as my dad whispers something in De's ear and he just laughs and covers his face embarrassed. "Go do it!" I hear my dad whisper in encouragement.
My too adorable nephew comes to stand next to Ashley without her noticing, and I look to Clay and Chelsea to see they've also noticed, but Clay keeps talking so that Ashley won't catch on. De looks back at my dad, and he nods in encouragement some more. So De reaches up and pats the side of Ashley's leg. Causing her concentration to falter as she looks down. A smile spreads across her face when she looks down to see him standing there. He beckons her to come closer by flipping his wrist back and forth. She takes a glance back at me and I nod to her in encouragement now. So she let's my hand go and kneels down to his level. De'vaughn grabs a hold of her face and gives Ashley a kiss on the cheek; then he turns and runs to his Nana. Everyone laughs as Ashley stands back up, looking stunned and with a slight blush also tingeing her cheeks.
"That was so cute!" Chelsea coos and we all laugh even more.
"Well hello to you too." Ashley says to De with a smile and he just buries his face in Julia's chest, but with an obvious smile on his lips.
"Where's Glen?" Clay finally asks, once the laughter has subsided some.
"He told me he'd be running late. The boys made it to the semi-finals, so they've been putting in extra practice whenever they can." My dad tells him.
"Glen is the head basketball coach at our old high school." I whisper into Ashley's ear, to fill the gaps in for her. She just nods.
"He should be here any minute. He said he would let them out a bit early to make it tonight." My dad says.
We all fall into conversation about different things while my dad excuses himself to go finish dinner. Just before we all move into the dining room to eat, my other brother comes in.
"Sorry I'm late guys. The team. . CLAY!" He exclaims upon seeing our brother and his family. "Chelsea, De-man!" He continues as he hugs them, before scooping up De'vaughn and spinning him around. "Man I've missed you guys!"
We all laugh along at his excitement.
"We've missed you too Glen." Clay replies. "You made it just in time too, cause we were about to sit and eat."
"You know I could never actually be late for the food part." He jokes and we all laugh. "We are still having dad's famous chicken alfredo right?" He asks seriously and we all nod. "Ok, good!" He carries De'vaughn into the dining room and we all follow behind him.
Throughout dinner, we share a bunch of laughs and old stories. Loving the fact that Clay and Chelsea are in town.
"So how long are you staying for little brother?" Glen asks. He always likes to mention the little brother part. But I think Clay secretly likes it, simply because it's a show of brotherhood between the two of them.
"We're going to be here for a week or so. Maybe two. It depends on when the studio wants to do another showing. I know we were supposed to be coming back home for good, but the gallery out there is extending everything because they love Chelsea's art so much, and they're making a lot of money from their buyers who love her work also. Which reminds me; Dad, Mom, Chelsea has a new painting that she's done especially for you guys. It's a dedication to the new addition into our family." He states proudly as Chelsea bows her head bashfully.
"That sounds wonderful. Thank you Chelsea. I can't wait for you to show us." Julia says with a happy smile on her face.
"Well if you guys are planning on staying that long, then we're definitely throwing a barbecue!" Ashley says suddenly and everyone agrees together. "Is everyone free on Saturday? I have a huge pool at the house complete with a jacuzzi and a bunch of other stuff to do. Besides, it'll give you guys a chance to see where Spence has been staying." She adds and everyone agrees together again.
She looks to me and as our eyes lock, we share a smile. 'Thank you.' I mouth to her and she just kisses my cheek.
"So it's settled then? Saturday? Would you rather have it in the afternoon or more towards the evening?"
An echo of everyone picking something different goes around. Causing me and Ash to laugh. "How about we put it to a vote?" I ask and they all agree. "Everyone in favor of the afternoon raise your hand?"
Ashley, Glen and mom all raise their hands.
"And everyone in favor of the evening raise their hands." I say next.
Chelsea, Clay, dad and I raise our hands.
"So it's set. Four votes win for the evening. Everyone ok with five?" I ask and they all agree.
"Would you like to man the grill Mr. C.?" Ash asks him and he beams happily.
"I'd love too. What'd you have in mind for dinner?"
"Steak is always my favorite barbecue meal. Everyone else ok with that?" She smiles.
It's a unanimous agreement there.
"Ok, well bring them by sometime Friday so I can put them to marinate." He gives her his fatherly smile and I get butterflies just knowing how much he likes her already.
"Will do." She returns his smile.
"Baby, you should invite your sister to join us too." I tell her and for a moment my eyes drift over to my oldest brother who is engrossed in his meal. "I think she would enjoy hanging out with everyone." I look towards Glen again with a smirk and Ashley realizes my intentions.
"Do you really think that's such a good idea?" She asks, lowering her voice for only me to hear.
"I don't see why not. If anything they could both use the fling. But if there's one thing I know about my big brother, it's that he knows how to treat a woman. She might like him; and I know he'll be into her. He and I have similar tastes, and well, you and Kyla are practically replicas of each other." I say and she gives me an incredulous look. "I mean I totally got the way more sexy sister, but I'm just saying. He likes small brunettes with a killer smile too." I wink at her and she just laughs, catching the attention of everyone else.
"Care to share?" Glen asks in his smartass-y way.
"Haha, no. Sorry to interrupt." Ashley says as she hides her face in my shoulder. Once everyone stops looking towards us, she moves her lips to my ear. "You're so lucky that I think you're cute and funny." Then she lays a feather-light kiss to the shell of my ear before turning back to the table.
I give her a smile when she looks my way again and finally nods her agreement to my plan.
Everyone settles into their meals once more, talking and laughing about different things here and there.
-X-X-X-X-X-
Ashley's POV
A couple hours after dinner, we all say good-bye and head to our respective homes. Spencer's so excited about her plan, that she's begging me to call her now.
"Please Ash! Call her now. I want her to be there either way. But they'd be so cute together and Glen can help get her mind off of Aiden." She begs and makes a good point as well.
"Ok, ok. I'll call her." I pull my cell phone from my pocket. Thankfully she's driving as well, or I'd never hear the end of it from Kyla. Speed dialing her number, I put it to my ear.
"Hey Ash." She answers after a few rings. "What's up?" She asks, her voice sounding kind of monotone. Stupid Aiden!
"Hey little sis. And Spencer and I are driving back from dinner at her parents house."
"Oh I see. Sounds like fun."
"Yea, it was. But listen, we all planned to have a barbecue this Saturday at my house. You're coming, ok?" I tell her, knowing she'd say no if I gave her a choice.
"I don't know Ash. I really don't feel like doing anything." She says, withdrawing even further into herself.
"I know you don't. But doing what you're doing is not helping. Besides, he messed up and you did everything right. There's no reason for you to be the wounded puppy here sis. You should be happy to get rid of some player who never cared like he should have." I try to encourage her.
"Yea I know. But it doesn't change that I fell in love with him or that I miss the parts of him I knew weren't a lie." She whimpers, and I can tell she's on the verge of crying.
"Tell you what, I'll come over tonight and we can talk about everything, ok? Cause we need to get you out of this slump. You did nothing wrong." I tell her.
"No, don't worry about it. I'll be fine. I'll see you guys on Saturday." She tells me as she sniffles.
"Are you sure? Cause I don't mind coming over." I tell her, worry in my voice.
"Positive. Stay with your girlfriend. I love you." Then she disconnects the call.
I pull the phone from my ear in defeat and Spencer gives me a look.
"Is she doing alright?" She asks, biting her lip.
"As well as can be expected. She said she'd come on Saturday." I answer softly.
"Give her some time Ash. I mean she did just break-up with someone who she thought she'd marry. We both know how that feels." Spencer reasons.
"Yea I know. And you wanted to marry Benny?" I ask suddenly, realizing what she said.
"Oh hell no! I mean the thought crossed my mind in high school; but that was just naivety! No, I actually. . wanted to marry my ex." She finishes the end part quickly.
"Ah, the infamous ex. The one I've been waiting to hear about. Which reminds me, why have I been waiting to hear about her?" I chuckle to let her know that I'm not angry.
"I don't know honestly. I mean I know you told me about your last ex and the seriousness of it all. And that would have been a good time to bring it up, but your story came with a much bigger confession that I was more interested in," she shoots me a smile, which I return, "but I guess I never found a good time with everything else that's happened. And as well, you haven't inquired. So I figured it just wasn't something you cared to know about." She answers truthfully.
"I do care. I mean I get what you mean, that you thought I cared more about the now, which I do. The now is always going to be better than the past. But I still want to know what makes you guarded at times and what makes you tick and ticks you off as well." I tell her as I take her hand in mine and thread my fingers through hers.
She's turning onto our street now and directs the car into my driveway, before looking to me. "Ok, well let's go inside and we'll talk about it all."
I nod my agreement and we get out.
We head upstairs and silently get ready for bed, before climbing under the blankets together.
Spencer snuggles into my side, and automatically my arms wind around her mid-section. She takes a deep breath and begins.
"I was with this girl, Kelsey, for about nine months. Like you and your ex, I was crazy for this girl. We had been pretty serious from the beginning, and I thought very quickly that we'd be together forever. She seemed too good to be true for a while. But slowly, she started to change. Of course I didn't notice the changes right off the bat; Madison actually mentioned them to me at first. About how she seemed distant from me to even an outsiders perspective. I brushed it off, and claimed that it was impossible; that she'd just been stressed lately and that's all it was. I was just being naïve, though. Cause after Madi mentioned it, I started noticing it for myself. She was being distant. She had an attitude problem that she hadn't had before. She was becoming more secretive and didn't want to go out as much to our usual hang outs. Just acting completely shady all of a sudden. So one day, while she was in the shower, her phone rang and I answered it. The voice on the other line answered with a seductive "hey baby, where are you? I'm dying to see you." I told the girl off and we got into it, until Kelsey came into the room. She overheard part of the conversation, at least my end of it, and then her and I got into an argument over it. She played the angry card at first; saying I was invading her privacy. Then tried to play the repentant card when I told her we were through. But if she really thought so little of me, that she thought I'd fall for her BS apology, then she didn't know me at all. I cut her off, and left her apartment after grabbing all of my stuff from it right then and there. I didn't want another reason to see her face again." She pauses to take a deep breath. "I've spoken to her once since then; just a few weeks after the break-up. She was trying to apologize again and win me back. Hoping that the time spent apart was enough time for me to cool down and reconsider. But I told her no, that we were through indefinitely. I changed my number after that and haven't heard from her since. I've seen her once or twice at clubs every now and again, but she knows better than to approach me. But like your ex, she was obviously only in it for the money I had. Which is surprising as well, because she's a trust-fund baby herself. But yea, that's about it. It ended just about eight months ago. You're the first girl I've been with since her."
"Wow. . So it sounds like we both had a rough year last year." I murmur and then kiss her head. "But I think it's safe to assume that we both went through all of that and lost our potential wives, because we were meant to find each other. We were meant to be laying here tonight talking about it." I tell her honestly.
She's silent for a moment and then she shifts a little so that she's looking into my eyes. "I agree." She whispers, before laying a soft kiss to my lips. "Now let's go to sleep. I'm exhausted after all the exciting events today." She says through a perfectly timed yawn.
I kiss her head again in response and she snuggles further into my side.
-X-X-X-
Saturday comes quickly for Spence and I.
We spent the rest of the week getting ready for today. Cleaning up and buying food. Of course, Madison helped as well and we told her she could invite her new beau Alex. According to Spencer, she finally broke things off with Luke or whatever his name is. I only met him once, very briefly. I'm glad she dumped him is all I have to say. However, I am extremely worried about her being with Alex, because that means that Alexis has a way of finding out information on me, my life and my whereabouts. And that's just not drama that I'd like to deal with. I'll have to make sure to pull Alex aside and speak with him about that today.
Spencer and I had dinner with her brother and sister-in-law last night. She'd said that Clay wanted to get to know me a little more outside of the pressure of everyone else. And that Chelsea felt the same. We had a fun night being adults. I treated them to dinner, insisting. Going for the impression, but genuinely meaning the gesture as well. Spencer had to fight them as well to agree. Because she knows how I am. She seldom pays either, which makes her upset. But I give in on occasion. She knows I can't help being that way. We all had fun though. I know Spencer misses her big brother and it was nice to go out on a double date and get to know some of Spencer's family.
I'm broken out of my thoughts about the previous night, when I feel two arms snake around my waist and soft lips lay against my bare shoulder. "What you day-dreaming about over here gorgeous? I sure do hope it's me." My girlfriend's sweet voice fills my ears.
"Always about you beautiful. And I was just thinking about last night, and today as well. Anyone here yet?" I ask as I turn and wrap an arm around her as we walk back towards the house.
"Not yet, but Mom just text me and said that Clay , Chelsea and De are riding with them. And that they're almost here. And Glen will be late, because he just always is. But I'm sure he's probably at practice, so he has good reasoning. And unless you end up having to drag Kyla out here yourself, she should be here any minute also."
I give her a smile and kiss her forehead. "I'm so glad that you keep track of all the important details. Makes us the perfect planning team. Cause I'm so bad at minute details." We laugh together.
She smiles brightly, "Anytime love. Anytime." She kisses my cheek and we go our separate ways once we walk into the house. Me towards the kitchen to grab some of the drinks and Spencer towards the now ringing front door. "That must be someone now." She shoots me another smile and I return it before she's out of eye-sight.
With the PA system now on, I hear her greet her parents, brother and sister. And then hear as she starts talking to De'vaughn about going swimming. His reply is cut off though as she shuts the door. She leads them into the kitchen where I am.
"Hey guys." I greet them and hug them all individually. "You guys find the place ok?" I lean against the center island.
"Just fine. I was shocked when I recognized the area. Spencer's house isn't far from here is it?" Mr. C asks with a knowing smile.
"Yea, it's a few neighborhoods down. That was a total coincidence though. We met just before she started moving and we were both shocked to find that we would be really close to each other." I reply with a smile and Spencer smiles in my direction.
"That's a pretty cool coincidence." Chelsea adds.
"Alright, well the pool is this way guys. And we'll show you where you can put your stuff." Spencer tells them, and leads them out of the kitchen and then outside.
I finish grabbing the stuff I came in for, and then walk outside with everyone else. I show Mr. C to the grill and tell him to have at it. I'd already set everything I knew he'd need next to it earlier today.
Spencer helps Julia set up a small traveling playpen that they have for Peyton and Chelsea is putting lotion on De.
I walk over to the ladies to see if I can offer any assistance.
"We're good babe. But thank you. Has Kyla called at all?" She asks.
"No not yet, and I was gonna ask where Madison and Alex skipped off too." I sit down in one of the patio chairs next to the now set-up playpen.
"They went to grab some more drinks. They should be back any time now." She replies and then comes to sit on my lap.
"Alright. Sounds good. You told them to grab more ice too right?" I ask and she nods her head. "Ok, good." I kiss her shoulder and watch as De'vaughn stands by the pool's edge and just peers down into the water.
"De'vaughn, get away from the pool without your floaties on." Chelsea calls out to him, but Clay grabs him and spins him around before he gets a chance to listen. His laughter echoes toward us.
"Hey guys, look who we found outside." Madison calls as she walks in with Alex and Glen in tow.
"The party's here guys! I grabbed some tunes, so I know you have too have a killer system set-up somewhere Ash!" He calls as he comes over with his iPod in his hand.
"Of course! Right this way party-boy." I stand up with Spencer, kiss her cheek and she sits down in my chair again.
I lead Glen into the pool house, just off the patio and show him the hook-ups for his iPod, and turn the system on for him. "Just use this one here to adjust the sound, and then press play on your iPod. Everything is already wired into the house and there are speakers set-up around the pool and patio." I tell him.
"Sweetness!" He holds his hand up and I high-five him, while chuckling at his child-like antics. He plugs it in and turns it on as I walk from the room.
Some classic punk rock comes on and I high-five him this time when he comes out. "Nice taste!"
He just smiles and goes over to his brother and dad at the grill.
I walk over and sit down on Spencer's lap and her arms wind around my waist automatically. I love how we're subconsciously comfortable with one another around her family. "Babe, you should probably try and call Kyla. See if she's on her way or not." She tells me.
"Yea probably. Be right back." I kiss her forehead and she smiles sweetly, then I get up once again.
I grab my cell phone from the food table, where I'd previously left it, and head into the kitchen. I speed-dial my sister's number and Kyla picks up after two rings. "I'm on my way, I'm on my way. I will be there in like ten minutes!" She rushes, knowing that it's why I called her. Any other time, she'd probably have been here already, but with everything going on with her and Aiden, I know she's just having a hard time dealing.
"Ok, see you in ten, or I'm calling you again!" I threaten, but laugh as I just hang up.
I walk back outside, and see that Glen and his nephew have already made it into the pool. And Chelsea and Julia are sitting on the edge with their feet dipped in the water.
Spencer is laughing about something with her dad and brother Clay while Mr. C cooks. A happy smile on all of their faces.
Madison and Alex are sitting by the pool, tanning together, holding hands and talking from the looks of it.
It makes me so happy to see all of them happy and together. It gives me a happy feeling deep in my chest. I could definitely see myself being a part of their family. This is the kind of family I want to have myself, and I wouldn't be any bit opposed to having it with Spencer one day.
I walk over to my gorgeous girlfriend and wrap my arms around her, listening to their conversation. They're laughing about something De'vaughn did this morning. Spencer lays her hands across the tops of mine and intertwines our fingers. Kissing her shoulder, I laugh when Mr. C says that Clay used to do the same thing when he was De'vaughn's age; causing Clay to just shake his head in disbelief.
We stand here talking and laughing for a bit, before I remember that I needed to speak to Alex. I kiss Spencer's temple and walk away from her and towards him and Madi.
"Hey guys. Madison, is it alright if I talk to Alex privately for a moment?" I ask sweetly, a smile on my lips.
She arches an eyebrow in curiosity and I nod that it's ok. She shrugs and gets up from her chair. "I haven't given Peyton any love recently anyways." She says with a smile and then walks away.
"I know it's only just begun, but this is a pretty great barbeque already Ashley." He tells me sincerely, as he sits up on the pool chair.
"Thank you. I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. But look, there's something, or rather, someone, we need to discuss." I tell him seriously.
"Would this have anything to do with my sister?" He raises his eyebrow. "I caught the tension between you two the day of the fire. Or at least your tension and the look on her face." He confesses. "I know the look that was on my sister's face. Her predatory look." He sighs.
"Yea, it would have something to do with that. But honestly, it's just a simple request. If you need an explanation, I have no problem giving one. But the bottom line is that if she asks for any kind of information about me, you're not to give it. Alexis is not someone I want associated with me or my life in any way. No offense to you in any way on behalf of your sister, but she's a ball of drama, and it's just not what I want around me."
"Ok. I understand. And just because, I'm going to ask why? What happened? What's changed?" He asks curiously; so I sit down to be more eye level with him.
I scrutinize his face. He doesn't seem like someone who could be using Madison for the sake of his sister. I don't think any guy is stupid enough to get involved in his sister's, or any girl's, drama for that matter.
"Not all the tabloids are lies. I was a party girl. But I haven't been for over a year now. Your sister and I hooked up like three years ago. Around that time my partying was the worst. I haven't seen or spoken to her since that day, and then you guys showed up at the fire. She hasn't contacted me or anything like that, but I know if she had details of my life, that she would. And I just don't need her unnecessary drama. She already made it clear that she wants a round two. And she's not going to get it, or have a chance to get it." I inform him.
"Ok. I'll let her know to let it go. And to not bother you. And no worries, I won't tell her anything. And I'll watch what I say around her as well. I mean we only ever see each other at work or family dinners. But I'll be on my guard with details and conversations and such. I truly care about Madison, and I wouldn't want to jeopardize that by being involved in something that hurts her best friend." He sympathizes.
"Ok. Good." I give him a smile and he returns it. "I'm glad we're on the same page then. Enjoy the barbecue." I give him another smile and he nods as I get up to walk away.
Madison makes her way back over and Spencer walks over to me before I'm in hearing distance of anyone else. "What was that all about baby?" She asks curiously.
"Just needed to get some things straight between him and I." I inform her. She arches her eyebrow, so I tell her. No reason for it to be a secret. "Member his twin sister, Alexis?" I ask. Her face scrunches up in obvious annoyance at the mention of her name, but she nods. "I just told him to watch what he says around her, because I don't want her having knowledge about my life, and using it to interfere and create drama."
"Oh. Yea, I'm thinking that was a good idea." She nods and smiles brightly now, before kissing me quickly.
We begin to make our way towards her mom, when I see Skater come running out of the back door. "Hey boy!" I call and he barks and runs to me. "Now where is your mommy?" I ask as I rub behind one of his ears as he pants. Just then, she comes walking outside, her bag hanging from her arm and her sunglasses covering half of her face. I let Skater down before walking over to her.
We hug each other immediately. "Hey little sister." I whisper and she squeezes me more tightly.
"Hey Ash." She replies. "Hey Spencer." She says when we let go and she sees Spencer behind me.
"Hey Ky." She replies with a soft smile.
"Let us introduce you to everyone." I tell her and loop my arm through hers as we walk. "Mr. C, this is my sister Kyla, Ky this is Arthur Carlin, Spencer's father." I introduce them.
"It's nice to meet you Mr. C." She greets with a small smile and he gives her his brightest one.
"Nice to meet you. We've heard a lot about you from Ashley."
She smiles a bit wider. "Likewise." She returns.
"And this is her step-mom Julia." I tell her as we walk over to her standing with the baby. "And baby Peyton of course." I say with a smile and I see Kyla start to loosen up a bit when Peyton gives her a happy smile.
"She's such a happy baby." She comments and then looks at Julia. "She's beautiful, and it's so nice to meet you."
"Likewise." Julia says and smiles warmly.
"Ok, now in the pool, we have Spencer's brother and sister-in-law, Clay and Chelsea with their son De'vaughn. Guys this is my sister Kyla." I call out to them all and they all wave, which she returns.
"And last in the Carlin clan, we have Spencer's other older brother Glen." I tell her as we come up behind him at the food table. I tap his shoulder and he turns around, soda dripping down his chin from the quick movement. Ky giggles at him and I roll my eyes with a smile; leave it to Kyla to find that charming. "Glen this is my baby sister Kyla. Kyla, Glen." I see the look on Glen's face as he takes in my sister and she blushes, realizing his reaction also. It's only now that he wipes his chin, which causes more giggles from my baby sister. Well, at least Spencer was right. But I really didn't think my sister would be interested that quickly. She's definitely on the rebound! No offense to Glen! I shake my head and just walk away from them as Glen seems to find his voice.
I begin walking back towards Julia when I feel two arms snag me around the waist and lift. I already know that it's the arms of my girlfriend, and I begin to squeal when I realize what she's doing.
"Spencer!" I scream and I just hear her laugh. "Baby don't you dare!" I laugh as she approaches the pool's edge. I know she's going to do it anyway, so I make sure to get a hold of her waist and pull her in with me. The last thing I hear before being fully submerged is her own squeal from being dragged down with me.
I'm giving her a smile under water when most of the bubbles calm down around us and she just pushes me away before swimming back towards the top. When I surface, I pull her towards me laughing and she splashes my face. "Hey, if I was going down, you should've known you'd be coming too!" I defend myself and she just splashes me again and then laughs.
We all have a great day together, and I notice that Kyla and Glen stay near each other throughout the day. Just talking and laughing. The food was absolutely amazing, and I know we all mention it in some way throughout dinner. As if the comfortable silence wasn't compliment enough. It's almost as if everyone was too consumed with the good food to say anything at all. But there was idle chit-chat here and there.
Glen seemed smitten with my sister and Kyla seemed reverted to a giggly school girl herself. But I'm glad Glen was helping to heal her, even if just for a few hours. I know it helps to still feel wanted after going through a situation like she recently has. It makes me grateful for Glen's presence here today. And as well, it shows me a different side of him. I don't know him all that well, but I've heard a lot about him. Some of it bad or on the borderline of him being a nuisance. But I meant it when I said I was grateful for him today. Because he's doing for my sister, what I haven't been able to do recently. And that's making her forget, and unknowingly comforting her as well. Plus too, I've missed the heck out of her smile and she doesn't seem to have stopped doing that since I introduced them
"I told you they'd be a success." Spencer whispers in my ear when she catches my eyes on them. We're all sitting around a make-shift bonfire, that's built-in on the far side of the patio. I'm sitting in between Spencer's legs as we share one of the pool side chairs.
"I know you did. And I'm glad that Glen has her smiling. I've missed her smile." I tell her seriously, a small smile on my own face.
"I love how much you care about your sister." She tells me with a content sigh.
I relax more into her, and her arms flex around my midsection.
"Thanks again for orchestrating all of this." She whispers more softly and then kisses my neck.
"Anything for you beautiful." I tell her and look up. She kisses my lips fully and we break apart to see each other smiling happily.
We settle back into silence and I look around at the happy faces of everyone. Every body is with their significant other, with the exception of Glen and Kyla; however, they are coupled together and are sitting side-by-side on a pool chair together. Everyone else is cuddled up just like Spencer and I. Both Peyton and De are sleeping, worn out from the days' events, and are in the playpen set between Spencer's parents and De's parents.
Madison and Alex are the first to leave. Goofy smiles on their faces as they say goodnight to everyone, and then to me and Spencer. They're heading back to Alex's place for the night. Not too long after, Spencer's parents are yawning and agreeing with Chelsea and Clay that it's time to get the kids into a better bed. Spence and I help them pack up the kids things, before they say their goodbyes and then I walk them to the door.
When I step through the door into the back yard, Spencer is laughing with Kyla and Glen about something and I smile at just the carefree sight of it all. She looks so beautiful in the glow of the fire, so beautiful that it nearly takes my breath away. She notices me standing on the other side of the pool, near the door, watching and gives me an adorable smile. It gives me butterflies and only makes me fall for her more. I think this entire day I've been falling for her more. Just like I do every single day that I spend with her. But there's just something about today; about how carefree we both were around her family, and how unwavering they are about it all. This family is truly built and held together by the love they have for one another. And just being able to experience that with Spencer and not be worried about our relationship in front of those who mean the most to her, makes me care so much more greatly for her.
I walk back over to them and sit down behind Spencer. She leans into me instantly and I wrap her in my arms before placing a kiss into her hair. "You look adorable in my hoodie by the way." I whisper into her ear and I don't have to look to know she's smiling.
"So whatever happened with the whole Benny thing, Spence? I know I messed up, but you never told me the outcome." He asks timidly, but obviously concerned.
I only tighten my arms around her at the mention of the douche bags name.
"I'm over it big brother." She answers sweetly and he gives her a thankful smile. "It was insane at first and we fought it out. Then I messed up and agreed to this make-shift relationship that I didn't want. But I was partially blinded by what I knew him to be, instead of what he is now. Which are nowhere near the same people. So I sat him down and we talked everything out. He said he didn't want to lose me, but I told him he needed to figure his self out before we can truly be friends. And that was it. As he walked down the hall to leave, I spotted Ashley arriving and that's how I spent my Milan trip; with her." She smiles back at me and I give her a sweet kiss.
"Well I'm glad there are no more hard feelings between the two of you. And that must be why I haven't seen him around. I wonder what he's doing now to figure out his life." Glen ponders.
"I don't know. But he'll be alright. He just needs to find himself again as a single man. But he'll be fine." She conveys and then sighs, "Anyways. Did you guys have fun today?" She asks and I can hear the smile in her voice.
"Yea." They reply together and then I see Kyla bite her lip briefly.
"Thanks for inviting me Ash. I needed it." She tells me softly.
Nodding, I give her a smile, "Of course Ky. I couldn't not include you."
She returns the smile and I feel Spencer shiver despite my hoodie and the dwindling fire.
"If you guys want to stay longer, we can head inside and watch a movie or something." I suggest and begin rubbing my hands up and down Spencer's arms.
"Yea, that sounds cool." Glen agrees and then looks to Kyla. "You?" He asks her sweetly and she just bobs her head and gives a small smile. "Ok, then yes." He answers with his own smile.
We all get up and Glen places the lid to the fire pit on top of it, so that it'll choke out the rest of it.
Spencer and I let them pick a movie as we get cuddled up in our favorite spot. Pulling a blanket over us; I peer over the top of Spencer's head and watch as Kyla nervously sits with Glen. They share a blanket and I smile inwardly when she rests her head on his shoulder and lets out a long yawn. He doesn't make a move to further the contact, and I appreciate that he's being respectful. It does seem like he went for her hand under the blanket, though.
I hear Spencer yawn next, causing my own in return. I make it through maybe the first fifteen minutes of whatever movie it is, before I'm sound asleep with Spencer wrapped securely in my arms.