No One's POV
Penny Dawson paces around her huge bedroom in her mansion like she does most days since her daughter has been missing. She stops to look at the photos of herself and her daughter on her nightstand which just brings tears to her eyes as her hand covers her mouth in heartbreak from not knowing her whereabouts.
Suddenly, Christopher Wilde opens her door scaring her at first and then bringing confusion to her face.
"Chris?" Is all she says.
"Your bodyguard let me in." He explained in one quick sentence. She just nodded before turning back around getting a tissue to wipe her tears but just throws it back down.
"Where the hell is my baby girl, Chris?" She asked him even though she knew there was no way he could know. Christopher walks over to her rubbing her back in comfort, sympathy and guilt because no one knew that Chris did know exactly where his friend Ally Dawson was. "It's gonna be okay." He told her as she faced him with a teared stained face which just made him feel even worse.
"How can you say that? It's been two months!" She yelled upset before sighing to herself.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap at you."
"No, don't apologize. I completely get it. Your daughter is missing and you are unsettled. You have a right to be angry." He assured her not to feel bad about her feelings because of the circumstance.
Penny looks at him with an expression that he can't describe. "Can I tell you something?" She asked the young 18 year old adult lowly. "Of course." He told her as she nodded before sitting down at the edge of her bed.
Penny made sure to take a deep breath before looking him in the eyes to say what's been on her mind ever since the day her daughter went missing. "I never told anyone this, but...Ally called me right before she went missing." She confessed surprising him. "What?" He said in a way of 'tell me more' than came closer bending down on his knees and now looking up at her.
She sighed thinking back to that night and wanting to change the actions that occurred. "She called me and informed me that the bus had left her when she got out to get ice cream. I told her that we were coming back for her and she seemed okay with that at first before it seemed like she...I don't know, changed her mind?" Penny said not so sure.
"What do you mean?" Christopher asked wanting to know more details. "She was saying things like how she 'needed to be happy' and 'find who she was'. I thought she was joking of course. How could she not?" She asked with a fake chuckle putting her head into her hands as he looked at her sadly.
"What else?" He asked lowly as she lifted her head emotional. "She said that she didn't know how long she would be gone but...she would see me again." She finished confessing as it blown his mind because that's exactly what Ally told him she was gonna do. See them again.
In a few months, she would see her daughter again and she has no idea. In the meantime, she's having panic attacks, losing sleep and having massive search parties for a young woman who was perfectly safe.
"So, you are saying that..." He trailed off as he watched her get up and go over to her mirror looking at herself. "I know everyone thinks she was kidnapped or even dead." She scoffed with a roll of the eyes that anyone could ever think of her strong child that way. "But I think maybe...just maybe...she did exactly what she was telling me on that phone. Ran away." She said turning back at the young man's slightly nervous face that she took for something else.
"Oh, sweetie I'm so sorry. I know you are only her publicity boyfriend but I forget how close you two are. I'm sure you're hurting as well." She said laying a supporting hand on his hand. "Selfish of me to make it all about me."
"No, it's not. She's your daughter."
"Yeah, but she's also one of your best friends."
"That's true. But momma bear trumps best friend." He said with a small smile to lighten the mood which worked but only a little when she smiled back before it disappeared into the same sad frown he has witnessed for the past two months.
"How did this happen? What did I do wrong? I think she was trying to tell me something for weeks but I always cut her off for something I thought was more important. What the hell is more important than my own daughter?!" She stated frustrated as he gripped her shoulders making her look at him. "No one. And you will prove it when she comes home to you because she will come home to you." Christopher sternly replied before sighing and dropping his hands off of her shoulder.
"She's gonna be okay and we will see her again, no matter how she got away from us. That's a promise." He told her so confidently that he would have bet a million dollars on it because of course he knows it's gonna happen. "Thank you, but you shouldn't make promises you can't keep." She told him as he just stared at her. "I promise." Is all he responded with again as they left the conversation at that.
Austin's POV
"Come on Russo. You got to do better than that." I said staring up at her frozen body on the tree connected to our colliding bridge. "Remind me again on why we have to do this? We could literally use the front door." She said looking at the height of the ground far away from her.
"One. I already did this. And two, jumping from any height is like facing all your fears and letting go." I explained to her. "I know. To your death." She responded as I try not to laugh.
"Amy, it's your turn." I told her as she shook her head multiple times which I found quite adorable.
"Look, Amy I promise I will catch you. Does that make you feel better?"
"Not really, considering you also promised our first date would be good."
"Oh, so you're throwing shade now!" I said as she chuckled a little but still groaning from nervousness.
"Look at me." I tell her calmly as she looks in my eyes. "Do you remember when I told you that whenever you fall, I would catch you?" I asked as she slowly nodded holding onto the tree for dear life.
"Did you believe me?"
"Of course."
"Do you still do?" I asked as she sighed closing her eyes knowing what I was getting at.
"Yes. I'll always believe you."
"Then fall into my arms...because I'll-"
"Catch me." She finished my sentence as a small smile appeared on my face. She took a deep breath closing her eyes and counting to three before jumping and screaming in the air before falling right into my arms.
I got a better grip on her as she still clings onto me strongly. "Not bad huh?" I asked with a smirk as she scoffs getting off me. "Never again." She tells me dusting off her skirt before looking back up to me. "But it was nice being in your arms..." She admitted with a blush as I smiled holding her face with one hand. "Hopefully, being in my arms will happen more often." I say as she smiles before looking down at her phone.
"It's still early. Do you wanna walk to school? It's a nice day." She offered.
"Yeah, sure. I was just up earlier to talk to you but I can go now so we can get there on time." I told her as she smiled.
"I'll be back. Just need to get my backpack."
"Me too." I reply as we go our separate ways for only a couple of minutes. Amy comes back out and we begin to walk to school.
"So, what's that?" I ask her as she has an obvious wrapped present in her hands. "Oh, it's just a birthday present for Carrie. She's turning 18 today." She told me as my eyes widen. "Shit. I didn't get her anything." I said feeling guilty while Amy chuckles.
"Austin, I doubt she'd care. I mean yeah, she's dating one of your best friends but you just properly met a month ago." She informed me not to feel bad as my eyebrows furies. "But you met her around the same time I did and you still got her something." I said not getting her logic.
"I'm sorry, do you go shopping with her, talk about boys with her, get mani pedi's with her or have sleepovers with her?" She asked as I looked stupid understanding now.
"We're friends, Austin. It's different." She ended as I nodded almost letting it go. "I'm her friend too since she's dating Dez though right? I mean we all do hang out sometimes."
"I guess, yeah. Just not that close. If it bugs you so much, just get her a present next year if they are still together which I think they will be."
"So do I." I reply as we smile at each other.
"You look beautiful today." I tell her honestly because it was hard not to stare at her. "Um...I'm not wearing any makeup." She chuckled confused. "I know." I said casually as she looked at me with such light in her eyes that made my heart melt right onto the sidewalk.
In this moment, I just wanted to take her hand and hold it but that's what we did before and had the worst date ever. I don't wanna rush anything until our date is over and we see how it goes. It's hard but if I really want this to work, I gotta be a little limited on the flirtation for right now.
We finally arrive to school and head into the building. We turn our heads and see Carrie at her locker surrounded with balloons and gifts.
I sigh and Amy turns around with a giggle. "I guarantee you that none of those things are from guys except for Dez!" She assured me though I wasn't that convinced. "I hope so." I say remembering how I was threatened detention if I was late to first period again.
"I gotta go, but I'll see you later?" I asked her.
"Of course. I can't wait for our date tonight. I mean...I know we'll see each other before then..." She chuckled nervously. "But I'm excited for it." She finished blushing as I couldn't help but laugh because she was so adorable I could barely take it.
"Me too, Russo. Bye beautiful." I said resisting the urge to at least kiss her cheek and walk away.
Ally's POV
After Austin leaves, I head straight over to Carrie in front of her locker along with Trish, Cassidy and Kira who all have gifts for her as well. I was gonna wonder how the hell Cassidy got here first but forgot she took her car. "Happy birthday girl!" I say as they turn around and see me. The girls cheer dramatically as Carrie comes up to me and hugs me tight.
"What is this?" She asked gently taking the cutely wrapped box from me. "Just a little something." I said with a shrug and smile.
"I can't open it right now because of class, but I know I'll love it. Thank you so much." She replied completely grateful. "It's no problem. Anything for my friends." I tell her as she smiles putting it in her locker.
"So, can you tell us now what Dez got you?!" Kira asked desperately as though her life depended on it.
"Yeah, we've been waiting all this time!" Cassidy said as she laughed.
"Alright. He gave me these huge balloons obviously." She said as you could see Dez's face on them making us laugh. "He kissed me passionately before giving me...this." She added taking the necklace from hiding in her dress's top part as we gasp at how beautiful and shiny it was.
"It's a promise ring." She says shyly and blushing holding it close against her chest. "He said it's a promise to always be there for me through thick and thin." She explained. "Awwwww." We all said simultaneously. "And last but not least is some huge surprise he's taking me after school." She finished off as we just smiled adoringly at her.
"I know, he's cute right? God, I love that boy." She said before her eyes widen along with ours.
"Did you just say-" Kira started.
"I think she did." I add.
"She totally did!" Cassidy finished.
"Oh my god, I love him. I love him? I love him!" She said excited and confused but happy all at once. "I have to tell him." She said closing her locker before facing us again. "Thank you all so much for the gifts. You mean the world to me." She told us as we smiled hugging her.
"Now, go to Dez and have a great birthday." Kira sternly said as she just smiled. "I will." She confidently stated heading down the left hallway. "Wrong hallway!" We all yell together as she runs the other way making us laugh.
I head into the same class I only have with Dallas and Dez. Dez is not in here of course because I'm sure Carrie called him away somewhere. "Hey Dallas." I greet him in a much better mood than yesterday. He smiles my way patting the seat next to him.
"It's really nice to see you better."
"I know. Thanks."
"My friends not an idiot, anymore?" He asked causing me to chuckle.
"No. He never was."
"Oh...okay." He replied before Dez comes back in the classroom with his face as red as a tomato looking completely flustered.
"Dez...dude are you okay?" Dallas asked him as he sat down in front of us.
"Hello...?" I say as he doesn't respond before looking up at us. "Carrie just told me she loved me." He blurted out as Dallas smiled surprised but happy. I smiled too but the look on his face confuses me so I really hope he didn't screw it up.
"So...what did you say?" I asked curious. Please, tell me you didn't screw this up Dez. It's her birthday for Gods sake. "I said it back." He chuckles nervously before a smile formed on his face. "I can't believe she loves me the way I love her." He said as I sighed satisfied but my heart also melted at how happy he is in his relationship with the girl of his dreams.
"I'm so happy for you, buddy. You deserve this." Dallas says patting his arm. "I agree. You guys are adorable." I told him as he smiled blushing looking down a bit. "Thanks guys." He said before looking back at me.
"So, you and Austin really are friends again?" He asked curious.
"Yep. We're actually...going on another date tonight." I admit casually acting like it's not a big deal as they widen their eyes with smiles before cheering causing the teacher to shh them making me laugh.
"Shut up, guys. It's not that big of a deal."
"The hell it is. You guys haven't talked for a week and now you're dating again." Dallas said.
"It's one date."
"More than that if it goes well." Dez replied.
"What if it doesn't though?" Dallas questioned.
"Dude!" Dez said pushing his chest.
"What? Sorry, but what if it goes the same way or worse like last time and it's back to ignoring each other. I can't go through that again." He explained.
"Will you shut up?" Dez said shaking his head as I laugh closing my book.
"That won't happen. We weren't being ourselves on our first date, that's why it went so terribly. We are gonna be completely open this time."
"Okay...but what if it goes bad anyway from the lack of something else?"
"Well, if me and Austin still aren't into it after, then we will just stop trying. We will still be friends and learn to move on because we did what we could. No need to hate each other for it. So, no more awkwardness or uncomfortable feelings for you guys."
"Thank god." Dallas said with a praise in the air as I giggle.
"I'm happy for you two. Because I have hope it'll work out. You guys just seem right for each other and I think tonight will confirm it." Dez told me which made me smile widely because it was the cutest thing in the world.
"Oh, look at my buddy thinking he's a love therapist just because he's in love now. Amazing. Just amazing." Dallas sarcastically replied which caused a glare from Dez. "Stop it. Those words actually helped me. Thank you Dezzy." I say pinching his cheeks as he smiled before I went back to work.
"Wait." Dez said making me look up to him. I am never going to get this work done.
"Yeah?"
"I actually didn't lie completely yesterday when I said I needed help with Carrie's birthday."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I got her a promise necklace and a bunch of balloons and even a mini cake but I told her that I got her something after school but really have nothing planned." He admitted as I look at him as if he's crazy.
"Why in the world would you lie?"
"Because what I gave her didn't seem like enough. I didn't want her to be disappointed on her birthday."
"Oh, yeah because showing up to nothing is not disappointing." Dallas said smartly.
"Dallas!"
"No, he's right." He says with a sigh.
"I was wrong for lying to her. I can't believe I'm gonna be the reason to ruin her birthday."
"You're not." I assure him.
"Take her ice skating. She loves it." I offer an idea.
"I can't skate though."
"Even better. You can just say that you want her to teach you because you know she can and she loves it." I tell him.
"Plus, bonus point for bonding session as a couple." Dallas added in as I nodded agreeing.
"Okay, then what else?" He asked writing this down.
"Take her to that Galaxy Wars: Zombies Invade movie! You guys are into that weird stuff." Dallas said as Dez gasped snapping his finger. "Yes, she would love that!" He said writing that down too.
"Lastly, take her to a nice dinner at whatever place you want too. End the night with a beautiful conversation that she'll never forget." I say as he looks at the both of us with a smile.
"She's gonna enjoy her day so much now. Thanks so much. I'm a failure without you guys." He said hugging us both. "Yes, you are." Dallas said nonchalantly joking but I still slap his hand anyway as he laughs. These two need to be put on a leash.
Austin's POV
It's now lunch time which I couldn't wait for because I was starving. I was in such a rush to see Amy this morning that I forgot breakfast. I sit down across from her and she smiles at me starting our own conversation.
"So, were the presents from any guys?" I asked curious as she giggled.
"Nope. Just like I told you." She said making me smile.
"You did tell me."
"I did." She replied taking a sip of her drink.
"Why don't I listen to you more?"
"I don't know, but you should start so your life wouldn't be such a mess." She responded making me giggle.
A guy then comes over to our side of the table. The same one who came a few weeks ago when he asked Amy out and she rejected him because she didn't feel like having a boyfriend then. "Hey." He said with a sly smile as she smiled back strangely. "Hi..." She replied lowly.
I watched this dude's eyes trying to make him as bothered as possible. "Still wanting to be single? Or are you ready to give me a chance?" He asked sitting down next to her as she coughed uncomfortably.
"Actually-"
"Actually you should go." I said as they both turn to me in surprise.
"She's not interested. The message is clear as day so maybe you should stop trying to force it. Have a nice day." I told him as he looks at me in disbelief before looking back at Amy who just shrugged basically telling him that what I was saying was the truth. He scoffed hard before walking away and going back to his table.
"Girls, are we still on for the mall today after school?" Cassidy asked Amy and Trish. "Of course." Trish says as Amy agrees with her as Cassidy nods going back to whatever conversation she was having with them.
"You going to the mall after school?"
"Yeah. Is that a problem?" She asked confused.
"No, no." I say with a chuckle.
"I just don't want you to be late to our date." I told her as she giggled. "I know girls tend to shop long Austin, but we won't be there long at all.
"I'm buying an outfit and that is it."
"For the date?"
"Yeah."
"Why?"
"What do you mean?"
"I see your clothes everyday Russo. You have an amazing fashion style that contains great clothes. I know you already have something that would be perfect for it."
"Maybe. But nothing that screams me."
"Huh?"
"I have a lot of clothes, which I got from...Michigan. They are rich clothes and expensive clothes and I love them with all my heart but I'm more of a classy but laid back fashion style and I don't have that. I want to be me." She explained to me as I smiled more impressed with this girl even more than before.
"Well, I would never want to stop you from being you because you are amazing." I said holding her chin for a few seconds as she blushes before letting go.
The bell rings for lunch to be over. Trish, Cassidy and Dez go to class. Dallas and I have practice right now because our schedule got changed today. Cassidy and Amy don't have cheer practice but they do have a free period.
"I'll meet you on the field dude." Dallas told me leaving the lunchroom as I stopped Amy from walking away with my hand.
"What?" She questioned adorably.
"Will you watch me?"
"What?"
"Will you watch me at practice?"
"You want me to watch you play football?"
"Yeah. I know it's a free period for you and I really want you to watch me." I tell her as she smiles.
"I would love to watch you play the game you love." She said intertwining our fingers together and I know I said limited flirtation but we both can't help it.
"Thank you, beautiful." I say as she smiles widely at my nickname for her.
"I also want to apologize for that thing a while ago."
"What are you talking about?" She asked confused.
"With that Mikey dude. I shouldn't have answered for you. I knew you could handle it. I just got a bit jealous and it's no excuse for it."
"Austin, it's okay."
"No, it's not. I don't want you to ever feel owned. I trust you completely." I told her as she smiled wrapping her arms around my neck.
"Don't be sorry. I actually like the dominant. It's pretty...sexy." She says in a sultry, smooth voice into my ear while making her really close to mine.
"Considering our second first date isn't until tonight, maybe quickening the pace is wrong." I say gulping a bit at how close she is.
"Really? Then why does it feel so right?" She said leaning in closer as I do too before she pulls away.
"Kidding! Let's go to your practice now." She cheered grabbing my hand as we run out the cafeteria. Man, she played me well.
Ally's POV
I sit on the bleachers by myself watching Austin in complete awe. All I have seen is him tackling a lot of his teammates, staying in the number one spot of running track and don't even get me started on his throws. It's no wonder he is the quarterback of the team. My guy is simply amazing.
Wait. Did I just say my guy?
I smile to myself because that just felt right on the tongue. I watch as he removes his helmet to hear something the coach is saying to all of them and I feel nothing but butterflies when he takes a glance at me winking. God, the things that boy does to me.
Suddenly, I see red hair come up the bleachers and that's when I realize it's Cheryl. "I promise I'm not stalking. My boyfriend Greyson is actually on the football team, remember?" She informed me again. "Take a seat." I told her patting the spot next to me as she smiled sitting down.
"So, I'm gonna go on a limb here and say you are here for Austin?" She asked after we sat in silence for a while.
"Yeah, I am."
"That's nice. Does that mean you guys are back on again?"
"I guess you can say that. Yes. We are doing a redo date tonight, but this time being ourselves."
"Yourselves? Was that the problem before? I talked to Austin about the date not going well but he didn't mention identity problems." She said making me giggle. "It wasn't identity problems. More like...liking someone so much that you are willing to change everything of who you are." I explain as she gets it.
"Oh, okay. Well, I'm happy he decided to ask you out again. You two deserve a chance. I really mean that." She said sweetly. fff"I know you do." I reply with a nice smile.
"But yeah, I was actually surprised that he asked me out again considering how horrible it was." I told her honestly as she nods trying to hide a smile looking around when I realize something.
"It was you wasn't it?!" I gasp loudly playfully hitting her shoulder as she starts laughing. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry! But guys can be clueless idiots sometimes and all I did was give him some guidance." She told me as I shake my head still in disbelief.
"Look, you're happy I did, right?" She asked as I thought about it even though it was an obvious answer. "Of course, I am." I say looking back at him who just caught a ball and threw it down in happiness which made me giggle as I could feel Cheryl watching me.
"You really like him huh?" She asked lowly with a smile as I stare at him.
"Yeah, I do. He's nothing like any other guy I've ever known. He doesn't try to impress me like other guys, well except for on our first date." I say as she laughs before I continue on. "He's so loved and popular in school but he can be a complete dork when he's with me." I say with a smile remembering all of Austin and I's best moments.
Cheryl smiles at how much I like him. "He's lucky to have you." She complimented me as I faced her. "Thank you for saying that. Your boyfriend does too because you're actually so awesome." I say truthfully as she giggles standing up from the bench as do I. "Thanks. I'll see you later I guess?" She says as I nod and she starts to head down.
"Wait, Cheryl." I say causing her to turn around.
"Yeah, Amy?" She asked sweetly.
"You know with our many talks and all, I've been wondering...if we were friends? Or if I could consider you one?" I asked her as she looked at me for a few seconds before a smile formed on her face.
"Russo, you're so adorable sometimes that I forget you're not joking. Of course we're friends. I wouldn't talk to you if we weren't." She told me which made me happy.
"That's great because I think you're really cool and I actually wanted to invite you to the mall after school with Trish and Kira to find me an outfit tonight. Usually Cassidy and Carrie come along to the mall with us as a group but Carrie is having a birthday day with Dez and Cassidy is having family dinner with her parents. Not that I just want you there to replace them. I would want you there regardless because you're so awesome and cool and I really like our growing friendship-"
"Amy!" She yelled stopping my babbling.
"Sorry." I say lowly as she just shakes her head before chuckling.
"I would love to go to the mall with you and the girls. Thanks for the invite." She said with a sweet smile before waving goodbye and leaving.
I smile that me awkwardly asking Cheryl to hang with us is over. What? You guys know I am an awkward person and even though Cheryl is over the 'use to date' Austin thing, it's still a bit weird for me. But I still like hanging with Cheryl so I feel the more I am around her, the uncomfortableness will go away so we can really be friends without the guilt from me.
I head down the bleachers and run to Austin who is on the field last. I run up to him giving him a huge hug which makes him laugh hugging me back before we pull away.
"How was I?" He asked with lightened up eyes.
"Amazing. Just like you will be next Saturday." I tell him as he smiles.
"Thank you." He replies with a blush as I lean up and kiss his cheek.
"I have class. I'm sorry I can't stick around." I said feeling badly.
"It's okay. Mind if I walk you to class?" He asked as I smiled.
"Moon!" We turn around to see his coach calling his name and then blowing his whistle. "Important meeting right now. Let's go!" He yelled blowing the whistle again which could end my hearing.
"Sorry..."
"It's fine. Go before he ruins my hearing." I say as he laughs.
"I know he's a bit much, but he does really care about my future." He defended.
"As amazing as you are. He should. A legend in the making." I tell him as he raises his eyebrows in surprise.
"You really think so?" He asked. "Of course. You're so talented and it's only a certain amount of time before the whole world finds out." I said honestly as he blushes heavily.
"You have no idea how much I wanna kiss you right now but I'm gonna wait for the right moment." He said making me laugh. "I'll see you tonight though." He added with a smile as I did too. "You will." I say glancing at his lips knowing that it was the lucky night in my heart.
*Time Skip*
"I feel like we have checked every store in the mall. Austin might be right. I'm gonna be late for the date." I said as we walked around some more. "No, you are not. We still have 2 hours." Trish says causally. "I still have to do my hair and make up." I tell her frantically. "Oh..." She said before going back on the phone with Jace as I roll my eyes turning to Kira and Cheryl.
"So, what next?" I asked. "I don't know, girl. It's your date." Cheryl replied. "I know!" Kira said pulling me into a store that we didn't visit. "Whoa, these clothes are actually really cute and really me." I say intrigued looking around. "Yep. Also, they are affordable. I know you're rich and whatnot but nothing wrong with saving." Kira added making me giggle.
Cheryl gets confused coming over to us.
"You're rich?"
"Um...yeah."
"Really? Wow. I never knew."
"It's not exactly something I like to brag about. I'm just trying to fit in."
"I get it. People do treat you differently when you have nice things or are important." She said as I nodded agreeing.
I think about my whole situation and how the possibility of someone finding out who I really am and using me afterwards causing me to lose a really good friend scares me. We continue to look for another 30 minutes before I find the perfect outfit and we buy it and hurry up.
"I know I was on the phone with Jace most of the time but you are gonna have a great time on this date and look absolutely beautiful." Trish complimented making me smile. "She's right. That outfit is the perfect combination of causal and sexy. Totally you." Kira stated as I nodded agreeing and smiling because of how much I love it.
"Give us the deets tomorrow?" Cheryl asked as we all looked at her a little strange because the deets would be about Austin and me. I know she said she's over it but isn't that still awkward? "Yes, I want the deets!" She confirms as we raise our hands in defense because she knew what we were confused about.
"Well, I'll see you guys tomorrow. Thank you again for helping a helpless girl find some clothes for a date." I said making them all laugh. "You are always welcomed, Ams." Kira said with my nickname.
I smile one last time before waving goodbye to them as Kira drove off with Cheryl and Trish. I head inside excited for the best night of my life.
Austin's POV
"You two really don't need to be here." I said bothered as they just watched me get ready. "Nuh uh. We are here to personally make sure you don't screw this up." Dallas said standing up. "Exactly. Because I recall myself giving you amazing advice just for you to ignore it which led to the worst night of your life." Dez added in as I rolled my eyes. "Yes, I know that. It was a mistake but tonight will be different. I guarantee it." I told them seriously as they look at each other.
"Alright, then buddy. Make us proud." Dez said patting me on the arm. "They grow up so fast." Dallas joked emotionally as I laughed getting my blazer on. "I'll see you guys tomorrow at school. Don't stay here till midnight or my mom will shoot you." I tell them as they laugh while I head out.
Ally's POV
I'm wearing black leather pants with a nice white blouse and matching white heels. I put my hair into a messy bun with a light touch of makeup and some silver hoop earrings. I take a look in the mirror again before I head downstairs to wait and smile with satisfaction.
Austin's POV
I head out my door and make my way over to Amy's house. Well, Cassidy's house but she's staying there temporarily so you know what I mean. Living right next door to the girl I'm dating is very convenient by the way.
I knock on her door and she opens it almost immediately coming out as I stare in awe. "Wow...I know I say this a lot but you really are the most beautiful girl on the planet." I told her as she blushed with a giggle.
"I guess that makes you the most sexiest guy on the planet." She replied making me smile.
"Don't sexualize me, Russo. I am not a piece of meat." I jokingly said as she laughed before intertwining our hands.
"You ready?" She asked enthusiastically.
"More than you know." I say lower as we smile to each other.
Ally's POV
We walk to his car when he opens the door for me like a gentlemen and I thank him. He drives off as we listen to some nice music.
"So, where are you taking me?" I asked curious. "Well, it isn't a five star restaurant. I guarantee you that." He said making me laugh.
"I'm actually taking us to one of my favorite fast food places, and now that I think about it, I haven't asked you if you even eat fast food." He stated a little worried. "Don't worry, I love fast food. I just don't eat it all the time but I definitely will tonight." I tell him as he smiles pulling up to In and Out Burger.
"Oh my god, I love their fries and shakes." I said as he got out the car opening up mines for me.
"So do I. My favorite shake is the-"
"Cinnamon milkshake." We both say at the same time causing us to look at each other and blush before going inside.
We ordered our food and begin to eat right away because their food is just absolutely delicious. "So, have you always been into music?" He asked me causing me to look up and wipe my mouth just in case something was on it but I doubt it.
"What do you mean?"
"Well, you sing a lot in music class and you seem the happiest while doing so." He mentioned which showed that he often observed me.
"I mean, I'll never forget when we all saw you perform for the first time. That was a crazy party."
"I was also crazy drunk." I said as he chuckled.
"You stilled killed it. So?"
"Um...yeah. I don't think there was a moment in my life where music wasn't a part of it."
"Why do you like it so much?"
"Why do I like it so much?" I repeat with a giggle as he smiles. "Yeah, why do you like it so much. Everyone has different reasons. What's yours?" He asked genii intrigued.
"At first, it was just because it was fun to me. I was young and I loved to jump up and down in my room pretending I was Shakira with my TV remote." I said as he smiled continuing to listen. "But as I got older, it became so much more. Music is now very inspirational to me. It allows me to express who I am as a person. Which is ironic, considering I haven't been able to express who I really am through music until a few months ago." I admit as he fury his eyebrows.
"How so?"
"That's an explanation for another time." I say before taking a sip of my drink.
"So, what about you?" I ask as he makes an adorable confused face with a full face of fries.
"You think I haven't noticed your music ability as well?" I asked with a smirk. "Yeah, I know you're passion is football but you have a voice so how did you discover it?" I asked curious while he shrugged casually.
"I don't know, really. I just remember my mom making me sing Christmas carols with her and my dad at people's door. Which was the most embarrassing thing I've ever experienced by the way. I was 8 at the time I stopped. I hadn't sung again until freshman year of high school." He told me.
"What made you sing again?"
"I actually had a mistake in my roster that had me down for music class, so therefore I had to sing. I didn't switch it because I actually ended up enjoying it." He admitted as I smiled.
"So, what made you like it?"
"The feeling, I guess? Every line I sang felt real even if I hadn't experienced it yet."
"The power of music huh?" I say as he nods.
"But football is still your home, right?"
"Always." He replied reassuringly.
"That's nice. Very sexy too." I add as he blushes but with a smirk.
"I'm almost done. You?" He asked as I nodded looking down at my almost empty platter. He paid the bill and then we headed out and into his car going nowhere I know of.
Suddenly, we reach my most favorite place on earth. Ice Cream Palooza! "Oh my gosh!" I scream getting out the car as I hear his laugh. "Okay, you weren't kidding that this was your favorite ice cream place ever." He said as I turned back around to him.
"How could you possibly remember I told you that? It was like from one of our first conversations when I got here." I said looking at him amazed. "Yeah, I have great memory when it comes to people I like." He said as I just smile at how much effort he put into this.
"Alright, let's go beautiful." He said taking my hand as we went inside and got in line. "Which flavor are you getting?" I asked curiously. "Um, actually I think I'm gonna try your favorite. Fruity Mint Swirl. I wanna see what's all the hype about." He said with a smirk as I look at him completely baffled that he remembered that too.
"You are just-" I cut myself off by squishing his face together and giving him multiple pecks on both cheeks as he smiles and laughs into it like a baby.
"Aren't they adorable, Harold?" An old woman says as we pull apart.
"Yes, dear. Now, let's leave them alone." He said pulling her away as we look at each other before blushing and ordering our ice cream.
"Mind if we eat this outside? It's a nice breeze." I ask as he nods before we walk out and standing in the front of the place.
"How is it?" I asked after he tries it.
"Not bad. Pretty good actually."
"Yeah, that's an understatement."
"I bet you taste better." He said as I widen my eyes and then he realizes what he said.
"Wait, that came out so wrong. I did not mean it that way. I am so sorry."
"It's fine, Austin. It's actually pretty funny." I say laughing and blushing at the same time as he joined in. I shake my head at his mistake while eating my delicious ice cream.
"So, what are your plans after college? I know you plan to go to college to continue playing but what's gonna be your major?"
"I'm actually deciding between General Calculus and Art."
"Art? I didn't know you were into art."
"Yeah, I have a class in it."
"Yeah, I know. I just didn't know it was one of your things."
"I like to think I'm pretty good."
"Well, then you have to show me some of your work sometime."
"Of course." He said with a smile before taking another kick of the ice cream.
"You know the more and more I taste it, the better it gets."
"Told ya." I said as he chuckles.
"I guess you did. So, what about you? Are you really going back to Michigan after you graduate?" He asked a little disappointed.
I sigh because that's another lie, that's not true. Of course I'm going away, but not to Michigan. I'm going to LA to go back to my pop star glamorous life.
"Um, yeah. My mom is missing me so much and I still have a few months to go here. I don't think she can take being away from me that long."
"What about what you want? Are you just going to go to college there?"
"I don't know..." I told him not knowing what to say.
"If you got into college what would be your major? Music?" He asked guessing because I like it but I shake my head no surprising him.
"I've been doing music my whole life. I would like to try something else I might be good at." I tell him as he nods understanding. "Enough of me. You are obviously way more interesting with all your talents." I say as he laughs. "Me? You are a damn mystery to me, Russo. I find it very attractive but I do want to get to know you." He said looking in my eyes as I move closer to him. "You will. I promise." I say honestly as he smiles before taking my hand as we walk to his car.
"I know it feels like we've been out all night but I have one last stop." He told me as we got in the car and he drives. "No problem." I respond as it only took two minutes to get where we arrived. I saw the clear, blue beach as we got out and I smiled remembering all my childhood memories from being here before.
We walk onto the actual beach taking off our shoes and to remind you that we are the only ones here that makes it even better. He lays a blanket down and a little picnic to the side.
"This is so nice, Austin. But I don't think I can eat anymore." I say with a giggle from all of the food we ate tonight.
"Don't worry. It's just snacks. I know you are a fan of pickles." He said showing me them as my eyes light up snatching the jar.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you!" I said as we both sit down but he grabs me and pulls me to sit right in front of him.
I look down a little and smile and blush. He wraps his arms around me as I lay my head back onto his chest. "So..." I say as we softly played with each others fingers. "My mother use to tell me that when I was younger that my dad would take me to an ice cream shop and then to the beach." I started off.
I couldn't tell him it was the same ice cream shop and beach in Miami because he believes I'm from Michigan.
"I would smile at the stories but I would get upset with myself because I couldn't remember him...but I remembered the taste of the ice cream and the smell of the ocean." I said looking down with tears in my eyes.
"I never understood why I could remember the unimportant things and not my dad." I sadly said as he intertwine our fingers tightly but in a gentle manner.
"You were a kid. Two right?"
"Yeah..." I answered lowly.
"You're lucky you remembered anything at all. It's not your fault." He told me as I still looked down.
"Hey." He says causing me to face him with a tear on my cheek. "It's not your fault." He repeated slowly wiping the tear as I smiled slightly at him.
I turned back around getting comfortable again. "My mom said he was the best guy. She said they were so in love that they did everything together. I always found it odd because she's so independent now and it seems like she's always been that way."
"Maybe she had too, because of his passing. She had to step it up as your parent now that she was a single mother." He said as I nodded agreeing.
"That's true. She told me how he was goofy and sometimes nerdy which makes complete sense because that's how I was." I said as we both laughed. "You? No way." He said in disbelief. "Yes way. I was into arts and crafts and volunteering and helping people all the time."
"What's wrong with helping people?"
"Nothing, of course. But I had a personal day schedule at the age of 10." I told him as he laughed his head off which made me smile.
"Oh my god, that's hilarious."
"Yeah, I can tell by your reaction." I said as he continued to laugh as I shake my head at his mocking.
"It's not that funny." I say hitting his shoulder as it starts to become to an end. "You're right, you're right. Not funny at all." He said still with a smirk underneath his tone before holding me again in his position.
"Tell me about your parents since I still haven't met them yet. Which I'm still upset and offended by, just so you know." I tell him as he has a face of guilt on. "I'm sorry, but I really didn't want you to meet them until we became a thing."
"That explains why it's taking so long considering it took us a lifetime to go on this date, and then when we did, we screwed it up the first time." I said as he nodded agreeing. "Yeah, so my parents are pretty chill if I'm being honest. They don't treat me like I'm still a kid like most parents do. They understand I'm getting older and my father wants me to be the best man I can be.
"How long have they been married?" I asked curious.
"22 years and counting. They got married when they were 20. Very young."
"Wow."
"Yeah. I'm not going that route but it's nice that it worked out for them."
"I agree."
"Really?"
"Yeah, why does that shock you?"
"I don't know. Girls are usually the ones that like to commit faster and rush into things."
"No, not me. I have dreams and ambitions that I would like to accomplish before I begin to think about starting a life with someone else. Nothing wrong with that." I said as he just stared at me and smiled.
"No, nothing wrong with that at all..." He said looking amazed. "So, anyway..." He started snapping out of it.
"My mom and dad own this mattress store."
"Mattress store?"
"Yes, I know it's embarrassing. For years they wanted me to work there or run it in the future but when I told them about my dream of playing football they supported me completely."
"Awe, that's sweet."
"Yeah, it is. Even if it wasn't what they wanted for me, they still show up to every game they can when they aren't working."
"What? How is that possible? I never see them."
"That's because I played my cards right Amy Russo."
"Oh my gosh, you jerk!" I say hitting his shoulders as he laughs.
"I'm sorry, but after tonight I promise you'll get to meet them eventually. Considering you'll let me take you out again?" He asked looking in my eyes with a glimmer of hope. I smile and nod shyly. "I would love to go out with you again." I tell him as he sighs with relief. "Great." He says as we start to clean up the picnic material putting it back in the car.
We go to the last thing, the blanket he brought and we fold it up together with our hands touching and tingling. Yup, those were definitely sparks. We look each other in the eyes as we slowly stand up. I think this is finally the moment.
Austin's POV
I was looking right at her perfect, pink, soft lips that I've been wanting to connect to mine since the day I saw her and yet, I can't find the nerve to do something about it. Damn it. Tonight was amazing and it's such a perfect way to end the night but her beauty is getting the best of me.
"I had a great time tonight." She said with a sweet smile which calmed my nerves a bit but enough. "Me too." I say trying to talk myself up when I realize I just can't. Screw you, Austin. You mess up everything for yourself.
"I guess we should head back huh?" I ask her as she looks surprised by my statement and then tries to hide it and like I said before. I am an idiot. "Um...yeah?" She said confused as I nodded awkwardly. "Great. Let's go, Amy." I say with a weird smile kissing her cheek and walking down the beach.
Ally's POV
Are you serious? We should head back? Is he joking? After our amazing date, that's all he says. I could tell he was nervous but not that much that it would make him not even try. No, it's time to do exactly what Cassidy taught me. It's the 21st century and sometimes the woman has to take the lead which is perfectly fine.
I walk right up to his moving body swiftly through the sand. "Austin." I say which causes him to turn around when I instantly grab his face with both hands and finally connecting our lips together. I feel the shock in his response before he sighs into the kiss in bliss and satisfaction.
We move our lips over and over again loving the feeling of them together. I see nothing but sparks in my head, feel complete butterflies while also hearing all the waves crash along the shore and gorgeous wind through the night. During our kiss, I realize this is my first real kiss with someone I actually really like.
We slowly pull away as we breath kind of heavy because of that magical and passionate kiss. I open my eyes to see his are still close which I find so adorable.
"I can't believe you did that." He said with surprise and light in his eyes. "I hope you are happy I did, because...I was pretty satisfied." I said with a smile as he laughed.
"Well, please let me satisfy you some more." He said gaining more confidence after the first kiss, wrapping his hands around my waist and pulling me in kissing me again as I wrap my arms around his neck as we continue to make out on this beautiful beach of home.
Yes, I said home...because this has always been my home...and in his arms, it sure feels like home.
END OF CHAPTER REVIEW QUESTIONS
1.) Thoughts on the convo between Penny and Christopher?
2.) What did you think of the Austin & Ally moments in this chapter?
3.) Who are your top 3 favorite characters besides Austin and Ally?
4.) What did you think about the date and kiss?