_
Chapter 7 – Strawberry Shortcake
Riley's Point of View
Chapter Song: What Ifs by Kane Brown ft. Lauren Alaina
Chapter Quote: "The what ifs and the should haves will eat your brain." – John O'Callaghan
-

My nerves were in a state of constant tension. Never in my twenty-four years had I been so on edge. I was itching with anticipation on what this date could bring. Not having been on many first dates myself, my mind was reeling in what to expect. The idea of a traditional dinner didn't quite fit Lucas' persona, though this was a first date and the time to truly get to know him. If we do go out in public, I'm sure he will try and keep it secluded.

Lucas was odd while out in public. His face remained stoic, and if you weren't looking directly into his eyes you'd never see any form of emotion. Quite a contrast to how he is while we're alone. The only thing that remains constant is the never-ending affection he shows me. I've never been one for public displays of affection, but it almost like I can't even help myself around him. My body leans into his touch before my mind even realizes he's caressing my cheek or rubbing my arm. It is incredibly difficult to focus whenever he's around, so luckily while I'm scouring my closet for an outfit, he isn't here. If he were, knowing my luck, I'd end up wearing two different shoes. "Are you even listening to me?" Unfortunately, Maya is.

Never in a million years did I ever think that would even be a thought in my mind. I love Maya, she is in my mind my sister. However, her opinion about me going on a date tonight are not needed or necessary. "Nope," I try to keep the conversation light and airy by the simple flippant tone of my voice.

"You're becoming incredibly frustrating." With her gritted teeth and grit in her voice, it's no secret that my off-handed demeanor isn't working to easy any sort of tension. "There's just something about him, Riley. I don't trust him." Should I wear a dress? Tearing one out of my closet, I place the cool fabric against my body and stare into the full-length mirror.

"And why is that?"

Maya sighs before ripping the dress out of my grasp. My lips form into a pout, exasperatedly I sigh and place my hands on my hips, waiting on her to continue. I know Maya and because I know her so well, I know she isn't going to let this go until she says everything she wants to say. "I just think that you both are moving incredibly fast. You've known him for a few days and he's not only come into your home but changed your locks, and you two are getting cozy in the back booth. What if he's a stalker? Murderer or rapist?"

"I feel comfortable with him, Maya. You know that I'm not that kind of girl and if I were it is my choice to make." Lazily she collapses onto my bed, "I get that this is weird, especially for me and I appreciate your concern but it also is not going to deter me from going on this date. I have never felt this way before!" A smile begins to form on my lips at the thought of his touch, "his friend Josh, I believe is kind of cute." My aim to direct the conversation into a happier one is complete when she grins widely.

"Yes, he is. However, I'm focusing on you. Just be careful tonight."

Nodding vehemently, I fall on top of her for a hug. "I always am. And if it makes you feel any better, Lucas makes me feel safe." Rolling to the side of my best friend, both of our heads lying on one of my pillows, my body turns towards her. "This is going to sound insane but – well, do you remember when we were children and I would read those books about sparks flying when you touch and just knowing?"

Every muscle in her body becomes tense and tight, but with her curt nod I continue. "I always thought it was something simply for books and fairytales but Maya, I genuinely feel that with him. He sets my entire body on fire with sparks and no matter how silly or childish, a part of me believes he is the one."

"I'm happy for you." It doesn't sound like it. Leaning in, she pecks my cheek before scurrying off my bed. "I have to go, I'm meeting up with my mom tonight and need to discuss a few things." Even though I know she's lying, I simply wave her goodbye. "Have fun tonight, Riley."

Well, at least I won't have to deal with the negative Nancy.

By the time I'm ready to go on the date, I couldn't keep my hands from trembling.

Opting to go for an ivory, mid-thigh dress was a difficult decision. It was in the midst of said difficult decision that I came to the realization that I didn't have Lucas' number. Lucas had said that he'd pick me up at seven this evening, and seeing as it was already two minutes until seven, my bag was in hand and I began the arduous process of locking my door. I couldn't even be mad about it though, it was an incredibly sweet gesture and for him to care that much about my safety made my heart flutter in all sorts of nonsensical.

My hand instantly found the railing so I could walk safely down the stairs, Lord knows I need it. It may be customary to have the man meet you at your door, but my body had a mind of its own and since my heart nor brain were protesting, I just let it gravitate me to where I was supposed to go.

And because I tripped on the steps, and now my body was on fire – in the best way possible – I quite literally fell into Lucas' arms. No matter how many times he touches me, I'm not quite sure I would ever be able to stop the moan. My fingers clutch at the black cotton of Lucas' tee shirt tightly, steadying myself and trying to regain a normal heartrate. "Are you okay, doll?" Gulping, I nod before connecting my eyes with his own. "Good."

In one swift movement, my back is pressed against the wall of the stairway. My chest begins to heave up and down from the abrupt movement, while my nose brushes ever so slightly against Lucas'. "You have to be more careful, my little doll." Lucas drags his nose across my jawline, then places a chaste kiss on the lobe of my ear. "You look so damn gorgeous." The scent of cinnamon rolls invades my senses, and once again my body reacts on its own by burying my face into the crook of his neck and trying to pull him closer. "How did I get so lucky?" Teeth begin to nip at my skin ever so slightly before he kisses away the sting.

"Thank you." I breathe. The pain in my cheeks becomes apparent. Have I ever smiled so wide in my life?

Lucas throws himself to the railing on the opposite side of the wall, putting some space in between us. The hallway was dimly lit, and probably could have been used for a scene within a horror movie from the pieces of worn and torn wallpaper, but it did nothing to damper the shine of his forest green eyes or the palpable tension pulsating between us. "We have to leave, now."

I'm agreeing, immediately my fingers become tangled with his own. Unfortunately, we're almost to his truck whenever my eyes focus in on his clothes. Jeans and a tee-shirt. Digging my heels into the ground, there's a slight tug on my arm whenever Lucas keeps walking. His head snaps back to glance at me, my stomach begins to swarm with stampedes of elephants when I realize what it is he's doing. I've seen his eyes glide over me like this before, but it isn't until now I realize that he's checking to make sure I'm not hurt.

A rough calloused hand caressing my flushed and somewhat embarrassed cheek pulls me out of my thoughts. "What's wrong, doll? Are you okay?"

Nibbling at my lip, I glance one more time at what I'm wearing while the wind whips strands of curled hair across my face. "I-I think I should go change, Lucas." In the most adorable way the muscles in his forehead pinch together, forming a frown.

Lucas shakes his head, "I don't think so. I've never seen someone as beautiful as you. I love you in a dress." Oh sweet, Lord.

"That's incredibly sweet," I comment, "but I'm a tad bit overdressed I think."

He shakes his head, a stern look overcoming his expression. The hand that was rubbing my cheek gently clasps the nape of my neck forcing me to meet his gaze. A sharp exhale causes the left side of his lip to quirk. "I know that you look perfect for this evening. Ignore how I am dressed and get your pretty little self in my truck." His grip tightens ever so slightly, openly displaying his dominance and for whatever reason I love it. "Or I will put you there myself," he teases.

How can I argue with that?

No matter how often I asked, Lucas refused to tell me where we were going. But from the sly grin it is obvious that he's excited. When the city buildings began to disappear from the rearview and the road has become somewhat familiar, I realize that this is the same route I took whenever I catered his event. "Lucas may I ask you something?"

"Ask me whatever you want, doll. I won't lie to you."

The heat in my cheek rises causing me to glance out the passenger window just so he won't see it. Hopefully he didn't see it. "Um, I catered that event for you awhile back." He nods, gesturing for me to continue. "I was curious, what was the event for?"

Lucas hums, those beautiful eyes sneaking a glance at me. "I will answer your question. But first, why do you ask?"

In order to keep from fidgeting, I sit on top of my hands and peek at my date for the evening, doing my best to ignore the warm hand clasped on my thigh. "Well, I had seen a few couples that met at the party and they were inseparable for the rest of the night. I was just, curious." My voice is barely a whisper towards the end, I realize now that the question was incredibly intrusive.

Lucas remains quiet for a few minutes, his thumb making small concentric circles on my bare skin. I almost expect him not to answer. It had been a few minutes after all. Deciding to focus on the comforting warmth on my leg, a grin dances across my face. One hand begins to trace shapes onto the top of his own, while the other runs up and down his bulky forearm. Lucas is a burly man, when he stands it is obvious but up close I can see the way his muscles flex and tighten whenever I barely touch him. The truck being thrown into park, and me being abruptly pulled into his lap has me letting out a small squeak of protest. "What if I were to tell you," hot breath fans against my cheek. Goosebumps start to coat my skin, "that it was for people to meet their soulmates? To meet the people that they will fall in love and have children with, to find their one person they would spend eternity with."

My neck cranes to stare into those entrancing eyes. Inhaling deeply, I drape my arms around his neck. "If you were to have told me that a month ago, or even two weeks ago I may not have believed you." Lucas' grip around my waist tightens and as if I'm going to run away he holds onto my legs that are draped across his own.

Staring directly into my eyes, Lucas begins to smile. Which could very possibly be the most gorgeous thing I've ever seen. "And now? What if I told you I believe in soulmates?"

My fudging heart is about to explode. Selfishly, my hope is that he's speaking about me and from the amount of adoration that's apparent in his orbs, I think I may be right. In an act of bravery, I reply, "I believe in soulmates too and I would also say that I believe the event may have served its purpose. A-At least for me."

A sound similar to a purr begins to rumble his chest, while a small giggle shakes my own. "Damn it, you're perfect." That only makes me laugh louder, and in only a few moments Lucas joins in with me.

When we both have regained our bearings, Lucas steps out of the truck with me in his arms. Taking in my surroundings, I clap my hands together excitedly. A huge white screen stands out on the edge of the tree line that surrounds us displaying a few upcoming movie commercials. In front of the screen tents are set up with shrunken sectional couches underneath. Tables lit up by candles and decorated with flowers are placed in the center around the couches, and waiters are carrying food and drink to a few different tents. "A different take on a drive-in," Lucas whispers in my ear that he then nudges lightly with his nose.

"I love it." Squealing excitedly, Lucas sets me on the plush grass. In a snap decision, I kick off my heels and toss them into the truck.

"Come." Lucas intertwines our hands and tugs me forward. The smile that was on his face becomes a stoic expression as we approach the hostess stand. For some reason, I love that his smiles and playful side are reserved for me. "Tent reserved under Friar." It wasn't until the hostess heard Lucas' last name that she even glanced up from whatever it was that she was doing.

As if it were my own book, the woman smiles flirtatiously. White teeth shine, her dimples become more prominent while long curls with a similar color to my own fly back in the wind. I wish her makeup was caked on or she was glaring at me, just so I could have a reason to slightly dislike her. However, the only thing that I could see wrong with her was that she had a bit of lipstick on her teeth. "Of course, Mister Friar. Just one moment." The hostess gives me a nod of acknowledgement before gathering a few things in her hands. "I do apologize ma'am, but unfortunately we do require shoes."

My gaze flickers towards my bare feet, shame washes over me when I see her wearing high heels like a pro in the grass. "I – I," if I wear them in the grass I'm going to end up hurting myself. It would be inevitable. But the want to continue this date is a need greater than the know of hurting myself. "Of course."

"Actually," Lucas interrupts with a set jaw, "she doesn't need shoes. My woman prefers bare feet and we are outside anyways. I see no reason as to why she – "I guess my incessant tugging on his arm finally caught his attention. "Yes, doll?"

"I don't mind getting my shoes, it is a date after all."

I can see in his eyes that he wants to smile but doesn't let his lips move. "You get what you want, doll. Do not try and change my mind." As if that were possible. One of the most prominent things I've learned about him, is that he does things his way, there is no highway option.

"Of course, Mister Friar." I openly gape for a few moments, until we begin to walk past couples in their respective tents. Even women with their significant others gape at the man who is holding my hand with a tight grip. My eyes flutter towards him as we walk, seeing as he was a step ahead of me it wasn't hard. Lucas is incredibly beautiful. The way his jaw is so sharp it seems like it's constantly clenched, or the lovely shade of unique green his eyes hold when scanning our surroundings.

By the time we make it to the table, my self-esteem has plummeted. I've never been an extremely confident person, and up until now I haven't even thought about what someone like me being with someone like Lucas might look like. What if he realizes he could find a woman so much more attractive? If he truly believes in soulmates, would he even want to see me again if it weren't for the fireworks between us?

Odd, that could be the best word to describe our new relationship. Fingers gripping my chin drag me out of my thoughts to focus in on him. "Tell me what's on your mind. I can see it in your eyes that something is bothering you."

"Just silly, woman thoughts." Lucas continues to stare at me disbelievingly and rightfully so. But, I refuse to tell him the truth, that could ruin the date and he is here with me which is the only thing that matters. What ifs are infinite, and sometimes asking why can be toxic. "Fine, I was slightly upset about the shoe incident. The fact that she can walk in heels on the grass made me to some extent jealous."

Though he doesn't believe me, Lucas still throws his head back to laugh. Shoving him lightly, I cross my arms against my chest just waiting for him to be done. Once he has sobered up and actually seen that I'm pouting he sighs and takes off his own shoes which causes those butterflies in my stomach to come to life for the millionth time tonight. "Come here, doll. You are too far away."

"Which was my intention. I was pouting if you remember correctly." Lucas reaches out for me, his tan skin contrasting to my ivory colored I noticed while he placed me into his lap. Big hands force my head into his neck.

"I remember and it was adorable." Just like the old movies, cartoon popcorn, candy and soda are dancing across the screen to indicate the movie is about to start. "Now, we're going to watch this movie, eat and talk like a normal couple so we can learn about one another."

Snorting, I look up through my lashes to see he is already staring down at me. "And after?"

He rubs his knuckles against my cheek and tucks some unruly hair behind my ear. His eyes search my entire face before settling onto one specific part. My lips. My breath catches in the back of my throat, while his eyes begin to dilate. "And after, I need to show you something." He replies in a husky whisper. Nodding in agreement, my lashes begin to flutter on the verge of closing, preparing for what I'm hoping to happen. "Riley, can I add something else to the 'now'?"

A Cheshire grin forms on both of our faces, "yes."

My eyes barely close before his warm lips are pressed against my own.

My eyes barely close before I realize that this is the best moment of my life.

A/N:
Hey lovelies.
I really despise this filler chapter but hey, you win some you lose some.
There was a comment either on this site or my other one who said they were confused and not understanding what was happening in the book. If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask me through the comments or DM me. I will be more than happy to answer and I'm pretty friendly once you get to know me!
Lastly, I just spent an hour plotting out the rest of this book and the possible sequel as well. Well, okay not mapping it out but doing research on information I'll need for following chapters so I'm pretty stoked. I hope you all are too! Hint: Riley isn't who we think she is.
Lucas' Point of View next chapter. What do you all think he has to show her?

XOXO – Taylor

Date Published: July 3, 2017
Word Count: 3,401