Lachlan

26 Hours Prior

Kali has been so out of her element since she's been here and I feel like I can't help. Mitch has been really welcoming, telling her to make herself at home, but I know Kali and she wouldn't do that, especially during her first visit. Jerome, however, wasn't being as hospitable. He's been staring her down to the point where she feels uncomfortable. She' hasn't mentioned anything to me about it, but she doesn't have to. I don't want her feeling unwanted, and I can tell Jerome is doing just that.

"Um," I heard her nearly whisper from the other side of the couch. All three of us looked over at her. "May I use your bathroom?"

Mitch chuckled and got up, motioning for her to follow him. "Of course! I wasn't kidding when I said make yourself at home, you know?"

She gave him a weak smile, nearly jumping out of her skin when she felt Mitch place his arm on her shoulder to guide her to the downstairs bathroom.

It was just me and Jerome now and he was playing mindlessly on his phone. My jaw was clenched, my hands wringing as I decided whether I should say something or not. The anger of watching how uncomfortable Kali was getting to me and I couldn't handle it. Yes, I was protective of her. No, I didn't think that was a bad thing.

"You good, man?" I asked Jerome, sounding a lot more aggressive than I intended, not that I could help it.

He half looked up at me, clearly annoyed I had even asked him such a question. "Yea, why do you ask?"

My hands balled into fists as I tried to control my temper, something that I've been really good at since getting here. "You think I didn't notice you've been staring her down? What's your problem, dude?"

He rolled his eyes, unamused with the conversation. "Whatever, man. I'm going to sleep. I'll see you tomorrow." Before I could say anything, he hurried off to his room, bumping into Mitch as he returned back to the living room.

He looked back at Jerome, obviously confused, and then looked at me, waiting for an explanation.

I shook my head, running my fingers through my hair and pulling it in frustration. I looked back towards the hall Mitch had just came from and looked at him as he shook his head, indicating Kali wasn't coming back soon. "He's being such a dick about Kali and it's pissing me off," I hissed. "I think he still thinks she's using me or whatever, but I don't get it! Does he not see how much better I've been? Does he not realize that she's actually helped me with this?" I could feel the tears stinging my eyes. I hated that they always did that when I was getting ready to blow up.

Mitch walked over to me and hugged me, something he rarely does but seems to always do the trick when my anger levels rose. "He's just being protective, you know? He sees you like a little brother and he's scared that if you get hurt, it'll be his fault, especially since you're so close now."

"Then why the fuck doesn't he just talk to me about it like a man?"

"Because he's Jerome. He doesn't like talking about his feelings and shit. Try talking to him tomorrow before the party. You two can go grab some last minute things for the party and I'll stay here with Kali, making sure she feels as comfortable as possible."

I nodded. "Yea, ok, sounds good," I said as Kali walked back in the living room.

Her eyes wandered to where Jerome was sitting and back to me. "He went to sleep?"

Mitch and I nodded in unison. "Yup, which honestly, we should too. Got a lot of prep to do tomorrow and since you guys so graciously volunteered to help when you decided to come a day early, you'll need the rest."

Mitch and I got up from the couch and walked towards Kali and I's belongings that were still sitting towards the entrance. We grabbed the belongings and headed towards the guest room on the second floor. I walked on autopilot, being familiar with the layout since I had stayed in the house the weekend prior, but Kali and Mitch lagged behind me.

"Hey," Mitch mumbled awkwardly, "so I forget to ask, but I had two of the guest rooms set up, just in case." His voice trailed off at the end and Kali and I looked at each other, both of our faces covered in a pale blush.

I had assumed we would sleep together, but I never stopped to consider what Kali would want to do in the situation. "It's up to you, Kal." She looked at me, her eyes pleading for me to make the decision for her. She obviously didn't know how much my friends know, which at the moment was very little after I told them about our date. They don't even know that we've kissed or have slept in the same bed, so I do understand the confusion this may have caused Mitch.

I bit my lip, raising my eyebrows at her playfully, hoping she would understand how much I wanted her to sleep in my arms, especially after being away for so long. I saw a smirk form on her lips. "The one room is fine," she said confidently while her eyes never left my gaze. "Thanks, Mitch."

I could see him smile between the two of us, not even trying to conceal it. "Well alrighty, at least it's already set up for whatever drunks need to stay the night tomorrow. Behave, kids," he said with a chuckle as he walked towards his room. "Night!"

21 Hours Prior

Kali and I couldn't sleep so we had spent the last few hours watching some episodes of Archer on Netflix. And by watching, I mean making out intensely as the show played in the background. We were in nothing but our underwear again, and fuck I wanted her so bad. This time, she unclipped her bra and let me pull it off, exposing her breasts in the pale lighting coming from the television. I could feel myself harden just from looking at her, and the blood continued to rush through me as I placed gentle kisses on them before going any further.

"Lachlan," I heard her breathe my name as she watched me work on her breasts. I looked up at her, awaiting for her to either give me permission to keep going or to stop. I felt her move into me, her body pressing softly against mine. "I don't think I'm ready to give it all to you, but I want you so bad."

She slithered from under me and pushed me onto my back, staring at me lustfully as she played with the hem of my boxers before pulling them down. Her eyes shifted down and back up to my gaze. She bit her lip, making my body pulse as I wondered what she was going to do.

"What do you have in mind, Diaz?"

She gave me a devilish smirk as she climbed up between my legs and hovered over me. She placed kisses along my waistline, sending shivers down my spine as she got closer and closer. She looked up at me one more time, almost as if to get permission before she moved on. I nodded slowly, not wanting to seem overly eager.

With that, she gave me the best head I had ever received in my life. It should go without saying that I returned the favor and it was amazing watching her enjoy something so deeply. We both slept in each other's arms, naked and smiling.

12 Hours Prior

Update: We've been awake for about an hour or so now and Jerome hasn't said anything to me. Granted, I haven't either, but I shouldn't have to. He's being a major dick and he knows it. I don't know how I feel about Mitch's plan to get him to open up. I'm starting to think it's just a waste of time and energy. Maybe I could just get him drunk and he'll be more honest then? We'll see I guess.

Additional update: I can't stop thinking about last night. Kali is literally amazing emotionally, mentally, and physically. I can't get the question out of my mind that's been lingering for a week now. Tonight, I think I'm gonna ask her. I'm sure it's what I want.

9 Hours Prior

"So," Mitch says loudly as he claps his hands together. We were all in the kitchen getting things together for the party. Kali had offered to help Mitch make dinner for the four of us, so she was working diligently as Jerome and I put up some more decorations in the living room. "I think Kali and I have the kitchen under control. Do you guys think you could head to the store and get some more liquor? I feel like we may run out like last year and I definitely don't want that to happen."

Jerome looked at me, sighing as he nodded for me to follow him. I scuffed, walking over to Kali and placing a kiss on head as I wrapped her in a quick hug. "Did you need anything else?"

She looked around at the ingredients displayed before her. "Umm, I think we're good for now. Do you think we need anything else, Mitch?"

"Actually, we need a lot of limes. And grab extra mixers, yea?" Mitch called from the other side of the island. He was working on some finger foods for the party tonight.

"Got it! Be back in a bit." I reluctantly walked out through the front door, looking at Jerome fiddle on his phone while sitting in the driver's seat. I took a deep breath and opened the door, sliding in in silence and putting on my seatbelt. Without saying a word, he put the car in reverse and sped off.

We drove in silence as I tried to figure out what to say to him. I really wanted this to be a good weekend, and I knew if something was going to change I had to give. I let out a deep sigh and opened my mouth to speak.

"I'm sorry for being a dick," Jerome said, cutting me off before I could say anything.

"What?" I said in disbelief.

"I know I've been distant lately, I just, you know I worry about you."

"You don't have to worry about me, I promise. I've been doing so much better; you can ask Mitch. He's told me he sees the change in me. I know you're worried about Kali using me or hurting me, but she's helped me so much. I haven't cut since I've met her, did you know that? I don't even think about it as much. I feel happy, man. Be happy for me, please?"

I could see a sadness in his eyes, as he had finally realized he had been wrong to not trust Kali and for thinking so little of the progress I've actually made. "I feel like I've ignored all the signs just because I'm so worried something bad is gonna happen and I won't be able to help." We pulled into the parking lot of the liquor store. He put the car in park and looked at me, tears threatening to come through. "I don't want to lose you, or almost lose you again."

"You won't, man. I'm stronger now. I've learned how to talk to people about these things. If I feel down or like I want to do something bad, I'll say something. I don't want to die anymore, Jerome." His face contorted as I said anymore, knowing that was once all I had on my mind. "You're not losing me anytime soon as long as I'm in control of things. Believe in me, ok?"

He nodded, finally understanding. "I'm sorry, man. Kali really does seem like a great girl. I'll be better to her, I promise, just give me time." He got out of the car, prompting me to exit as well. We walked into the store, laughing like old times. I was so thankful everything was back to normal.

6 Hours Prior

"Are you guys fuckin high?" I said, looking between Mitch and Kali as they giggled like children.

"Absolutely," Mitch said in a squeaky voice, making Kali laugh even harder. Jerome sat across from me, looking at me with annoyance. This wasn't really helping Kali's case. "We made these pot brownies for tonight and we needed to make sure they were strong enough."

Kali began to nod slowly next to me. "They're definitely strong enough. Shit, I'm glad it hit us both at the same time. I'm starving! And dinner's ready. Can we eat please?"

I looked at her in disbelief. She never struck me as a pothead or even someone who smoked recreationally. She had never mentioned it to me and it kind of made me feel weird that I had to find out this way. Mitch learned something about her before I did, and I really didn't like it.

"Kal, can I talk to you before we eat?" Her eyes looked at me, completely glazed over. She stared at me blankly for about ten seconds before nodding and getting up from her seat.

"What's up, baby cakes?" She said in a flirty tone, her hand playing with my hair as she got closer to me.

"Do you think it's a good idea to be this fucked up around people you don't even know?" I said assertively. I hoped it came off as more of a worrisome tone as opposed to the angry tone I heard.

"Oh calm down. Mitch said it would help me relax, which it is. I feel so chill and comfortable, I can't even be bothered as to whether or not Jerome is giving me death glares."

I flinched. "So you noticed?"

"I'm not an idiot, man. I can tell when I'm not really liked, and I get it. That's why I've been staying out of his way," her voice trailed off as her eyes lingered the length of my body. "You know," she whispered seductively as she moved in closer, "when I get high, I get incredibly horny."

She pressed her body against me, pinning me to a wall. I wasn't in the mood to deal with this crap, but I couldn't resist how sexy it was to hear her be so bold about her sexuality. "Kali, this isn't a good idea," was all I could manage to say, knowing that if she truly wanted me at the moment, I would willingly give it to her.

"Shh, the guys will hear you," she said into my ear as i felt her fumble with the strings on my pants. She moved her lips onto mine, kissing me hungrily. I could feel myself get excited with anticipation as she made her way into sweats and over my boxers, stroking me slowly and gently.

As much as I didn't want this to stop, I knew it was wrong of me to take advantage of the situation since she wasn't fully there. "We can't do this right now, love," I whispered quietly against her lips, "but after the countdown tonight, I'm all yours."

2 Hours Prior

I watched Kali from across the room. She was talking to Mitch's girlfriend, Jess, by the hor d'oeuvres and she looked absolutely gorgeous. Her dark gray hair was pin straight down her back. The black body suit she was wearing hugged her curves just right, leaving little to the imagination. She intended to wear little makeup, but Jess had come while we were getting ready and urged her to allow her to do her makeup, thus, Kali was left with a dramatic, dark look around her eyes and a dark red painted on her lips.

I tried looking away from her, but couldn't. I know she knows I've been avoiding her a bit, but I just don't think I can anymore. I wanted to have her by my side. I'm sick of watching guys throw themselves at her and watching her look at me for permission before speaking to them. I hadn't understood why she had kept doing that, that is until Mitch came up to me and said that he had accidentally told Kali some things about my past that he assumed she knew. I wasn't mad at him, I really wasn't, but it still made me feel weird knowing Kali learned some extremely intimidate things about me from Mitch, especially after they had already been high together. I wonder what else they had done when I was gone…

I shook my head, getting the ridiculous thought out of my head. I knew I could trust Kali and Mitch. They were both extremely close friends of mine, right? They would never do something so fucked up to me, right? Shit, I was going back to that place again.

I sighed, chugging the drink in my hand and heading to the kitchen to grab another. I was feeling a little tipsy, but I wanted to feel good tonight, like really good. I poured some whiskey in a glass, no mixer, and looked back over to Kali. It's time I man up and own my past.

I slowly walked over to the pair of women. Jess saw me first, giving me an understanding nod, and told Kali she would be back. Just then, I placed an arm gently on her Kali's shoulder, watching her tense at my touch for a second but then slowly turn around with a smile plastered on her face. She looked over to the drink in my hand and her smile faltered a bit, though she tried to play it off as if it didn't happen. It stung, knowing she would be watching my moves a little more closely, but I was ok with that.

"Hey, beautiful," I said weakly, reaching out to take her hand in mine.

Her fingers tightened around mine immediately and my heart jumped a little. It amazes me how she still can do that to me. "Hey, Power. I've missed you tonight. Done avoiding me now?"

I chuckled nervously out of embarrassment as I leaned against the wall. "I'm sorry, I just," I let out a deep sigh, trying to figure out what I wanted to say before saying it. "I think I just wanted to be in control of what you knew about my past. I know Mitch's didn't tell you the best things, but they were true bits about how I used to be. I'm not like that anymore. I'm so much better, you know that."

Kali nodded, but I could see her mind working. She was probably rethinking all the things I've ever done, looking for clues to prove and verify as to whether or not I'm actually better. It hurt a little to see her do that, but I understood why she's doing it, knowing I would have done the same if I was in her position.

"I know you're getting better, but I've been in your shoes, and still am. A relapse isn't impossible, but I know you're incredibly strong willed and won't let yourself fall into that trap. Just know I'm here, ok? I'm a lot more understanding than you give me credit for."

I moved in closer, placing a gentle kiss on her hairline. She smiled up at me, embracing me with her free arm and placing her head against my chest.

I looked down at her, how angelic she appeared as she held me. I quickly downed my drink, placing the cup on a table behind me and pulled Kali away from me. She looked at me with confusion, but I simply just smiled at her. "Kali, my dear, may I have this dance?"

She laughed, covering her mouth as she quietly gasped for breath. "I thought you'd never ask, Power. Show me what you got."

5 Minutes Prior

We were in the kitchen, setting up the little, plastic champagne glasses to be passed out to the guests. There were over 50 little glasses that needed to be assembled and two bottles that had to be opened. Jerome and I assembled the cups as quickly as we could, leaving Mitch to open the bottles and then help us with assembly while Kali poured enough in each of the little cups. I watched as she meticulously poured, making sure there was the same amount in each glass. She's such a perfectionist, I thought to myself, making me smile as I continued to watch her.

"Bro, you like her, I get it, but get it together, we're four minutes away from New Year's," Jerome whispered to me.

I blushed and worked faster, putting together the last glass and then working with the other two guys to start passing out the filled glasses. Everyone seemed to be moving quickly and getting in place to watch the projected image of a filled Times Square and a countdown clock in the bottom right corner.

"If I could get everyone's attention!" Mitch announced from in front of the screen with Jerome and Jess on either side. "I know we only have two minutes until the new year, and I just want to say how thankful I am for all of you. I consider everyone one of you that came out here tonight to be true and dear friends, and 2016 wouldn't have been as memorable without you. Now, when the clock strikes midnight, I want you all to drink to an amazing 2017, a year to be filled with just as much fun, love, and excitement. And remember, once the countdown is done, that's when the real party starts! Cheers guys!"

Everyone raised their glasses to Mitch, cheering and clapping as he turned around and started watching the screen with the rest of us. The one minute countdown had begun. It was time. I grabbed Kali's hand and turned her towards me.

She looked at me with excitement and smiled. "It's almost time! To think I'll be bringing in the new year with my new friend," she said as she held my hand a little tighter.

I smiled at her giddiness. God, she was beautiful. "Kali, I actually wanted to talk to you about that. I only have about 50 seconds to do this, so I'll make it quick ok?" She nodded quickly, urging me to continue. "Ok, so over the past month, I was able to find someone so lovely, so caring, so eternally beautiful and I've realized just how blessed I am for having you. I care so deeply for you, Kal, and I really would move the world for you if you wanted me to. I guess what I'm trying to say her is that I'm falling for you so hard, love, and I want you to be mine." She flinched a little, but I pleaded for her to let me finish before she reacted. "As much as I would love to ask you to be my girlfriend right now, Kal, I know neither of us are ready for that. All I'm asking is this: Kali Diaz, may I please take you on a proper date? One where I plan the whole thing and you simply come along for the ride and enjoy it with me? I would love nothing more than to show you a good day, something someone as wonderful as you deserves."

"10, 9, 8, 7!" I heard everyone shout. I quickly looked at the clock. Only five seconds left. I turned back to Kali, waiting for her response.

She smiled at me, a slight blush her cheeks. "Of course I'll go on a date with you, you idiot."

"Happy New Year!" the mass of people around us cheered.

I smiled, looking at the only person in the room that mattered to me in that moment. I pulled her into me and kissed her, more passionately than I think I ever had before. I was falling in love with this girl, I really was, and I couldn't wait until she was really mine.

We pulled away, looking into each other's eyes with childlike smiles. "Happy New Year."

Kali

26 Hours Prior

This is so awkward. I can feel Jerome's eyes boring into me and it's making my arms itch. I've been getting the urge to cut so much more recently, and this feeling of being watched and the overwhelming pressure being pushed onto me isn't helping. I hadn't said much since we'd arrived. I mainly just listened to Lachlan and Mitch speak excitedly about the party tomorrow.

"I legit can't wait to let loose tomorrow. It's so stressful planning these things out." Mitch said as he stretched out onto the couch. "You brought your swim suit, right Kali?"

I shook my head. "Sorry, I didn't know I was supposed to," I said quietly.

"Oh, sorry, that's my bad. I meant to tell you about that. I don't mind taking you to buy one tomorrow," Lachlan suggested.

"Um, no, it's fine," I responded hesitantly. I didn't know these people very well and the thought of them seeing my scars made me extremely self conscious. "I think I may be coming down with something so I don't know if swimming in the cold is really the best idea."

Lachlan looked at me with concern. "What is it, Kal? Do you feel feverish?"

I shook my head. "No, maybe a cold or something."

"Well don't be afraid to ask for anything, Kali. Really, make yourself at home! We want you to enjoy your weekend here. Like I said, any friend of Lachlan's is a friend of mine and I truly mean that." Mitch looked at me so genuinely, making me feel this intense need to trust him. It's so crazy to me how I was getting such different vibes from him and Jerome, but it made me feel better knowing I wasn't hated by at least one of the boys.

"Thanks, Mitch. I really appreciate it," I said with a weak smile. I kept rubbing my left arm, feeling the itchy material of my maroon sweater rub against my skin. Lachlan noticed and grabbed my hand, his eyes filled with concern. I could see him asking if I was ok, but instead of sending him a response, I just looked away, feeling that would be better than lying to his face. "Um, may I use your bathroom?"

Mitch stood before me and smiled. "Of course! I wasn't kidding when I said make yourself at home, you know?"

I smiled and got up to follow him, tensing when I felt his arm make contact with my body. This is as close as I have been to him and to feel him touch me felt foreign and unnecessary, but I knew he was being kind, so I tried to relax as much as possible as we walked down a long hall.

"So, I know we never gave you a real tour of the house, but I figured since your flight just came in today, you were probably pretty exhausted as it is. I'll definitely give you a full tour tomorrow." I simply nodded, still trapped under the weight of his arm on my shoulders. I heard him sigh beside me. "I know this is probably a really weird experience for you. You don't know Jerome and I, and you're still getting to know Lachlan as well. I'm not naive enough to think you'll feel comfortable around us all right away, but I really hope you do. It's been a long time since I've seen my friend this happy, and I know you have a lot to do with that. So when I tell you that you can have anything I can offer you, please know I mean it genuinely."

We were stopped before a closed door and Mitch was looking at me with determination and care in his eyes. "I want to thank you for your hospitality, really. I'm really awkward when I meet people, it's something I've been trying to work on for ages, but I appreciate you opening up your home to me and inviting me to spend this holiday with you and the people close to you. It means a lot." I turned the knob of the door in front of me and pushed it open. I looked back at Mitch before entering. "I'm glad he's happy again," I said with a smile before closing the door behind me.

21 Hours Prior

I had decided I wanted more. I didn't want to have sex with Lachlan just yet, but I knew we would soon. I knew he wanted it, and I'd be lying if I said I didn't want him just as bad, I just couldn't bring myself to that point just yet. One of our favorite shows to watch together played on the television as I laid on his bare chest in nothing but an oversized shirt and underwear. I knew I was going to take our relationship to the next step tonight, I was just waiting for the perfect moment.

I moved in a little closer to him, my head sliding a little higher on his chest as my hand slid to the hem of his flannel pajama bottoms. I felt his body stiffen then quickly relax at the contact. I looked up at him to see he was already looking down at me. "What are you doing, love?" he asked in a hush tone.

"I've missed you, and I haven't been able to show you just how much since I got back." I slid out of the oversized shirt, leaving me in nothing but some black, lace underwear I had worn specifically to excite him. His mouth dropped a little as he looked over my bare body, meanwhile my eyes wandered to the part of his body that was clearly growing with excitement.

"What's stopping you?" he asked with lust filled eyes. To that, I straddled him slowly, kissing his neck as I pulled down his pants. I heard a quiet moan escape his lips before I pressed mine against them. The kiss quickly became aggressive and hungry. We rolled around the bed, fighting for dominance and wanting to pleasure the other as much as we could. As I watched him loom over me, I unclipped my bra, exposing my breasts to him for the first time. It was obvious he liked what he saw. He knew just what to do with his hands and mouth, and damn did it feel amazing.

"Lachlan," I said in a quiet moan. I pressed in closer to him, watching him as he waited for me to say what I needed to say. "I don't think I'm ready to give it all to you, but I want you so bad." He bit his lip as I made my way on top of him. I pulled his boxers down, licking my lips to give him a hint of what I had planned for him.

"What do you have in mind, Diaz?" I smiled, placing gentle kisses on his waistline and moving closer and closer to thing that that caught both of our attention. I looked up at him, asking for permission before doing anything further, and watched as he tried to hold back his excitement.

20 Hours Prior

I wasn't expecting anything in return, but Lachlan has just made me feel more beautiful in that moment than I have ever felt with anyone else. He was gentle but precise, and made every single muscle in my body tense and relax all at once. I loved the feeling of his warm body intertwined with mine. Hopefully, this will be the first night in a while where I can dream of something happy instead of the darkness I've been seeing for the past week.

11 Hours Prior

We all sat lazily around the island in the kitchen, eating a quiet lunch I had prepared for everyone.

"This is delicious, love." Lachlan whispered in my ear, sending a shiver down my spine. I knew he noticed my tension as he slid his arm around my waist, pulling me closer and placing a kiss on my cheek. The small display in front of his friends made me a little uncomfortable, though it didn't seem like either of the two had noticed, or at least pretended not to.

I heard Mitch moan in delight from the other side of the island. "Kali, this is great! This is legit the best steak sandwich I've ever had."

I chuckled a little, knowing he was just trying to flatter me. "Thanks, but it's really not that great. Just wanted to say thanks in some way for opening your home up to me."

"Hell, if you're willing to cook amazingness like this, you can come over as often as you want. You don't need to worry about bringing that fucker, though," Mitch said with a hearty laugh, covering his mouth to not exposed the chewed food in there.

I felt Lachlan's arm tighten around me. "Fuck you, man," he said smiling, though his jaw was obviously clutch.

"Chill out, dude," Mitch said raising his hands in defense. "It was just a joke. But seriously, I had planned on working on all the food on my own because I know these two assholes can't cook for their lives. Do you mind helping me with dinner and some finger foods for the party?"

I smiled at the offer and nodded eagerly. "That sounds like fun, actually." Cooking was one of the few chores I enjoyed doing. I loved the freedom of expression I had while doing and the passion I could pour into the food. Plus, this will probably give me a better chance of distancing myself from Jerome who has still yet to say anything to me.

"Perfect. We can work on a menu after lunch and then head to the store. You guys wanna come?" He looked at Lachlan who nodded while taking a bite of the sandwich.

"I'll pass," Jerome said, quickly finishing his sandwich. "I'll just decorate in the meantime." He got up from his seat and disappeared into a hall.

I let out a breath, feeling a little more at ease. Maybe after the party, I'll work on at least being civil with this stranger I'm staying with.

8 and a Half Hours Prior

"Can you pass me the garlic, Mitch?" I said, prepping the pan for the ground beef I was cooking. I decided to work on the dinner for all of us tonight, settling that lasagna would be good so that Mitch and Jerome could have left overs for the next day since I'm sure they won't want to do much after the party tonight.

Mitch danced his way to my side of the kitchen, passing me fresh garlic and a mincer as he sang along to an old Paramore song I used to listen to all the time. "I could feel the pressure, it's getting closer now. We're better off without you!" he wailed beside me as he worked on making the dough for some pigs in a blanket.

I laughed hysterically, throwing the garlic and some onion in the hot pan. "You got crazy skills. Lachlan should start phasing you into his music videos."

He chuckled, shooting me a dismissive look. "I'm gonna take a hard pass on that, thanks. I like to keep my angelic voice to myself."

"You can't keep it from the people forever, Mitch."

He rolled his eyes, tossing some flour at me. "I think I just like seeing you and Lachlan together. I won't steal your thunder," he said with a playful wink.

Funny, I used to say the same thing when I watched Lachlan's videos with him. I didn't let Mitch know that, though, as I was still unsure if I should even bring that up to him since he hasn't. "You can gladly take it. I see him nearly every day. Please, put me out of my misery and take him back!" I say dramatically, placing the seasoned ground beef into the pan.

I heard Mitch laugh beside me, shaking his head as he started cutting the dough into smaller pieces. "I can tell he really likes you."

I bit my lip, not really wanting to discuss anything emotional at the moment. I tried to ignore him, starting to work on the sauce for the lasagna.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to bring it up if you didn't want to talk about it. It's just," he paused. I looked over to him to see that he had stopped working on his food. He looked back at me, his eyes portraying an emotion that I couldn't quite put my finger on. It looked like a blend of sadness and worry with a glimmer of hope, but truthfully, I didn't know him well enough to tell. "It's just it's been so long since I've seen him doing this well. I know you know about his past, about the person he was. Two years ago, he was such so different. He didn't know how to handle his depression and we didn't know didn't know how serious it was. The random tantrums, the constant drunken episodes, the sleepless nights, the careless sex; we thought it was just him being a normal teenager. We're his friends and we couldn't tell, Kali. We spoke everyday and we couldn't tell he was dealing with things like alcoholism, insane anger issues, bulimia, and insomnia. He was trying to kill himself for so long and we couldn't tell. What the fuck kind of friends were we back then?"

His tears were welling up, and I didn't know how to comfort him. He told me a lot more than Lachlan lead on, and it scared me a little. I'm a prime example of how someone could be doing so well one day and slip into such an intense and deep darkness the next. "You know it's not your fault, right? It's no one's fault. You need to let go of that and look at the progress he's made. Just in the short amount of time I've known him he's changed so much. Have faith, man."

I felt him studying my features, trying to get inside my head and see things from the perspective of someone who has been in Lachlan's position. "I know you're right. I just feel like I still need to protect him."

I nodded, turning my attention to the browning meet in the pan. "Good. He needs the support. Don't ever take that away from him."

He turned his attention back to the food he was preparing. "You're really good for him. I could tell. He's a lucky guy." I smiled to myself, appreciating the compliment. "This may seem random," his voice trailed off. I looked back at him, intrigued by the slight edge in his voice. "So, I usually make special brownies for the party. Would you want to help?"

I smiled at him. Just the mention of the drug made my heart pound in anticipation. The thought of the alleviation from the anxiety I'd been feeling since being here was tempting. It's like he knew I needed the trip. "Absolutely."

6 Hours Prior

We had taken "tester" pieces of the brownies we made for tonight to make sure they were good. It had been about a half hour since we took them and we were just waiting for them to kick in. Lachlan set the table with Jerome as I brought out the lasagna, followed by Mitch bringing out the garlic bread and salad.

"Has it hit you yet?" he whispered to me, taking his seat at the head of the table.

I shook my head, arranging the food and serving utensils in front of me. I felt someone grab onto my hips, pulling me up from my position. "This smells delicious, Kal. You really outdid yourself." He turned me around so that we were face to face and placed a soft kiss onto my forehead.

I rolled my eyes, lightly pushing off of him and into my seat. "You haven't even ate it yet. For all you know it would taste terrible."

"We both know it doesn't though. The sauce was amazing, especially after the secret ingredient I added," Mitch said, winking at . We had gotten to know each other a lot while the guys were at the store. He was really different than I expected him to be and I realized we had an obscene amount in common.

"Of course. That was definitely the game changer," I said, extending my fist for him to bump it. As our fists connect, I felt two very distinct things happened. The first was I felt a very tight grip on my thigh coming from Lachlan, making my body tense up for some reason. The second was what I can only describe as an explosion inside my body, and based on the look on Mitch's face, he felt it too. Instantaneously, we both started laughing. "Fucking finally."

I plopped back down into my seat to be greeted with another squeeze on my thigh. I looked down at Lachlan's hand and looked into his eyes, unable to stop my laughing. "Can I help you?" I asked.

He looked at me almost in disbelief, followed by a face of confusion. His face contorted as he looked between Mitch and I. "Are you fucking high?"

"Absolutely," Mitch responded for us in this strange, little voice. I don't think I had ever heard such a foreign sound, causing me to laugh even more. "We made these pot brownies for tonight and we needed to make sure they were strong enough."

I felt my head moving up and down on it's own, enjoying the trip that was starting. "They're definitely strong enough. Shit, I'm glad it hit us both at the same time." I looked at Mitch, watching as he was staring at the mass of food in front of him. I had forgotten that we were meant to eat and just looking at the food made the hunger hit me hard. "I'm starving! And dinner's ready. Can we eat please?" I took the spatula in my hand, getting ready to cut into the lasagna until I heard a voice in the distance try to pull me out of my trance.

"Kal, can I talk to you before we eat?" Lachlan asked. He looked at me in a way I had never seen him look at me. Was that disappointment? Is he disappointed in me? I nodded and got up, following him down a hall.

"What's up, baby cakes?" I asked, noticing how fully and soft his hair looked right now. My hand followed my eyes and played with his golden locks. It feels softer now than it did last night. My mind drifted to last night, and now all I wanted to do was kiss him.

"Do you think it's a good idea to be this fucked up around people you don't even know?" He asked angrily. I could see veins popping out on his forehead and his temples. He's never looked at me like this. I really didn't like it.

It started making me upset seeing him upset. I pulled my hand from his hair and put it behind my back, getting a little annoyed with him. "Oh calm down. Mitch said it would help me relax, which it is. I feel so chill and comfortable, I can't even be bothered as to whether or not Jerome is giving me death glares."

I could see him recoil a little, not expecting me to say that. "So you noticed?"

I rolled my eyes at him, getting more annoyed. "I'm not an idiot, man. I can tell when I'm not really liked, and I get it. That's why I've been staying out of his way." I looked away from him for a second and then returned my gaze to his crystal blue eyes. I scanned his body in front of me, taking in how his track pants left very little to the imagination and how the tank top he was wearing hugged his abs. I couldn't remember what we were just talking about, all I could think about was how much I wanted his soft, pink lips on me. "You know, when I get high, I get incredibly horny."

I pushed myself against him, pinning his hands down by his sides. I wasn't naive enough to think I was stronger than him, but I could see in his eyes he didn't know how to feel about me taking control like this. "Kali," he breathed my name. I was getting him excited, too. "This isn't a good idea," he said weakly.

"Shh," I whispered, stepping onto my tiptoes so that I could get closer to his ear. "The guys will hear you." I let my hands leave his side as I started messing with the hem of his pants. I dropped down to my natural height, feeling him bend down slightly to meet his lips with mine. I couldn't resist teasing him as I felt him grow more excited in my hand.

I heard him groan and pull away from the kiss, leaving me feeling empty. I could feel myself pout, wanting to keep going. "We can't do this right now, love, but after the countdown tonight, I'm all yours."

I placed another kiss on his lips, slowly removing my hands from his body. "I'm holding you to that, baby cakes." I followed him as he walked back towards the dining room, my hand held tightly in his. I couldn't wait to have him all to myself later tonight.

1 Minute Prior

I watched the ball begin to descend on the screen in front of me, a scene that I usually watched with my family in New York. I looked around, excited to be experiencing these with new people who I felt would be in my life for at least a little while. I felt Lachlan grab my hand and turn me towards him.

I couldn't help but smile at him. He looked so incredibly handsome in his blazer and skinny jeans and I was so incredibly lucky to be standing here with him. "It's almost time! To think I'll be bringing in the new year with my new friend." I bit my lip at him, holding on to his hand a little tighter.

He looked at me with a smile and a bright twinkle in his eye. I loved when he looked at me like this. It made me feel light. It made me feel beautiful. "Kali, I actually wanted to talk to you about that. I only have about 50 seconds to do this, so I'll make it quick ok?" I couldn't help but feel excited, intrigued by what he would tell me as I watched the time go down through the corner of my eye. I nodded, begging him to continue. "Ok, so over the past month, I was able to find someone so lovely, so caring, so eternally beautiful and I've realized just how blessed I am for having you. I care so deeply for you, Kal, and I really would move the world for you if you wanted me to. I guess what I'm trying to say her is that I'm falling for you so hard, love, and I want you to be mine."

I felt my heart drop. I froze, not able to really react to what he was saying. I don't want to hurt him, but I know myself, and I'm not ready for that. I couldn't quite pull away, so I looked at him blankly. That's when I realized there was something in his eyes. There was more to his speech. I nodded slightly, asking him to continue.

"As much as I would love to ask you to be my girlfriend right now, Kal, I know neither of us are ready for that. All I'm asking is this: Kali Diaz, may I please take you on a proper date? One where I plan the whole thing and you simply come along for the ride and enjoy it with me? I would love nothing more than to show you a good day, something someone as wonderful as you deserves."

I felt my face soften as he spoke. I wasn't ready for a full on relationship, but I was ready to keep exploring whatever me and him have going on right now. It wasn't perfect, but it was real. I knew I was still broken, and I knew he was too, but we could work through all that, and we could work through it together. He watched me intently, waiting for a response. I couldn't contain my smile anymore. "Of course I'll go on a date with you, you idiot."

"Happy New Year!" everyone around us shouting, but I couldn't really hear them in that moment. I was in this little bubble with this beautiful creature in front of me. He pulled me into him, his hands travelling to my hair and waist as mine travelled to the back of his next. We kissed, fireworks surrounded us as our lips moved rhythmically to the drowned out celebration around us.

We pulled away, looking into each other's eyes with childlike smiles. "Happy New Year."