What Is Life, 4:24 (George Harrison)

"Casey, would you please stop laughing?" Derek begs under his breath.

A hand on her lips to stifle the giggles, Casey nods.

His neck feels like it is on fire as he puts his guitar in its case.

"Der," she reaches to touch his arm.

He jerks away.

"Derek. Look at me."

He does, teeth clenched and trying not to break down and cry.

She steps forward and lets him bury his face in his hair.

"You smell like grapefruit," he murmurs against the crook of her neck and shoulder. Inhaling shakily, he just holds her.

"I am sorry I laughed at you."

"The owner came and had to fish me out of the bathroom before I went on," Derek admits, his breath warming her skin.

She pulls back and looks at him. "It was that big of a deal to you?"

His eyes harden and he turns his head.

"Stubborn as a mule," she huffs. The fingers of her right hand cup his chin. "Derek Venturi. Look at me, right now."

"I'm the stubborn one, eh?" he says sarcastically, refusing to meet her eyes.

"Yeah, you are." Casey rolls her eyes as he steps away.

"So, uh, I think I'm going to go to a bar."

"What? Why?"

"Were you even listening?" Derek snaps.

"It was the Beatles. You know I don't get their songs," Casey crosses her arms.

"It was George Harrison."

"Same difference."

"Since when have those two words ever been true, no matter what we're talking about? Or, did you forget the first time you said them? I am not your brother. Besides, what's so hard to get?"

"Well, is it just a song, or does it mean something? Am I supposed to find deeper meanings every time you sing a Beatles — or George Harrison — song?"

"There are no deep meanings. I haven't changed, Case. Everything about me is obvious. What's so confusing about me singing 'what is my life without your love, tell me, who am I without you by my side?' I should think it's pretty obvious."

"Then," she laughs, "I should think that my reply should be equally as obvious."

"I'd still like to hear it."

"Yes, Derek. I love you too."

He smirks at her. "Told you I wouldn't have to say it first."

She may have cursed at him, before leaning in to kiss that smirk off his lips. "You could say it back, though."

"I could."

"Well," she asks.

"Well?" he repeats innocently.

"Say it back." she whispers.

"Only when you're not expecting it."