DISCLAIMER: I do not own "Hawaii Five-O" or any of it's characters.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Thanks so much for all your reviews! I know some of you are dying to see them get together and the hurt between them is driving you crazy. Trust me, I get it! However, you have to remember that this has only gone on for 3 days. It seems so much longer because this is Chapter 22, but it's not. Because of how descriptive I've been, the story has taken longer to tell.
As always, thoughts are in italics. Also, I describe a floating bed in this chapter. I did my best at describing it, but you might want to google it and see a picture. Let me know if you think I did a good job explaining it, or where I could have improved. I'm always wanting to improve my writing and storytelling.
Enough rambling on my part, enjoy Chapter 22!
Thanks again for all the support!
xo,
DivaLola
CHAPTER 22
Steve wiped at his moist eyes as he walked outside. He didn't think he'd ever get the look of terror on Maddie's face out of his mind. Descending the couple stairs into the large fire pit, Joe watched him carefully, knowing immediately that something was wrong. As Joe motioned to the open space beside him, Steve hesitated briefly as it would mean Lori would be sitting on his other side. When he finally sat down, Joe whispered, "Where's Maddie? Everything okay?"
"She'll be right out," Steve whispered back. "And no, everything's fucked up."
"What happened?" As Steve relayed his conversation with Maddie, Joe's frown deepened. "So, she finally confirmed what we already knew? She's heard from this creep before?" Steve nodded, clenching his jaw. "Have any idea how to get her to tell you?"
Steve shook his head and closed his eyes. "I don't know. Unless I... take her on ride-a-longs where she can see for herself that I am fully capable of protecting myself and her... I don't know." He sighed. It was a crazy idea, and could be dangerous for her, but it was the only idea he had right now. Hopefully he'd come up with a better one.
"You and Danny can wear body cams, and show her the footage later," Joe suggested.
"Yeah, we could do that." Steve nibbled on his bottom lip in thought. He was so worried about her. He missed his carefree, silly, and happy Maddie. There had been only a handful of extremely brief moments he'd seen a glimpse of the real her since she'd been back.
"I know you're worried. I am, too," Joe whispered. "I'm here to help in any way you need."
"I appreciate that, Joe," Steve replied. "I really do."
"I'm glad you're stateside during this. Imagine if you were still overseas."
Steve groaned at the thought. "I don't even want to think about it." He'd feel even more helpless than he already did, and that was if he'd ever have been made aware anything was happening.
"You," Joe began, but stopped when he saw movement near the house. Maddie was walking towards them with a plate of food and a bottle of water. He turned back to Steve. "You just can't let her push you away. I know it's frustrating, but she needs you more than she's ever needed you before."
"Yes, sir," Steve replied, watching his best friend limp across the patio.
Maddie approached and noticed there wasn't really any room in the fire pit. Spotting a nearby chair, she took a step towards it. Before she could sit down, Joe called to her. "Here, Princess! There's space right here for you. We can all squeeze a little."
Maddie turned to see Joe had made space for her between him and Steve. She knew she'd get a lecture from Joe if she didn't join them, so she carefully walked down the couple steps into the fire pit and around to the open seat. She could feel Steve's eyes on her as she approached, but refused to meet them. The second she took her seat, she felt Steve scoot towards her, the right side of his body flush against hers. She sat stiffly and ate her burger, listening to the conversations going on around her.
Steve watched her from the corner of his eye, grateful to see her finally eating.
Ten minutes later Maddie turned to her right and set her empty plate on the stone ground behind her. As soon as she turned back around she relaxed and leaned back. However, instead of feeling the cushion against her back she felt Steve's right arm circle behind her, his hand coming to rest on her hip and upper thigh. She immediately tensed at the contact.
"Relax," Steve whispered in her ear, giving her goose bumps. A bubble of panic rose in Maddie, something he must have felt. "You're not alone. I've got you."
She bit her lip as he whispered to her, her eyes closing. God, everything is so messed up, she thought. How had this become her life? How had this happened? At the thoughts, she felt like the walls were closing in around her.
Because Steve had his arm tightly around her, he felt her breathing change. "Mads, breathe. You're okay. I promise everything's gonna be fine," he whispered before kissing her left temple.
She knew Steve meant what he'd said, but she hesitated before leaning against him, still worried and upset. Steve tried to hide his grin as he felt her give in a little. She was still tense, so he pulled her even closer, forcing her to fully lean into him.
"Maddie, are you excited about Wednesday's show? When was the last time you performed in Hawaii?" Rachel asked.
"Oh gosh... It's been a while. Maybe a couple years," Maddie answered, trying to hide her nervousness over her close proximity to Steve. "Ry, what do you think?"
"Oh… huh? … Hasn't it been longer?" Ryan answered sitting between Danny and Tina. "I don't know. The concept of time goes out the window when we're on tour."
"Let me think, " Maddie mumbled. Her eyebrows furrowed as she tried to push her horrific headache aside. Without even realizing, she used her fingers and hands, thinking back and counting. "It was almost a year and a half ago," she finally relayed. "We try and stop in as many cities and states as possible on the U.S. tour, but sometimes it just doesn't happen. I prefer staying on the tour bus as opposed to hotels every night. Because of that, they try to book the shows as close to one another as possible." She paused, taking a breath. "So, for example, if we are in Los Angeles we try to do all the shows in California. After LA, we'd try to go to San Diego, then to San Jose and then maybe to Oakland or San Francisco. From there we'd prefer to go up to Oregon and Washington or over to Nevada or Arizona. Sometimes we can't get the nights we need and that creates a problem. In that case, if it's a big city we need to hit, we'll have to fly back there at some point. If it's not, we'll skip it. That can make it hard to fit Hawaii in. Also, to have a show here, we always have to fly in and bringing the stage is difficult and very expensive. It's in a bunch of trucks. It's easier to drive it from city to city than fly it in. Sometimes it's just not worth the expense to the label. But, we do come here more often than other artists because I'm from here. There's a lot they can do promotion wise. What they try to do most of the time is schedule a Hawaii show around the time I want to be home."
"How big's the stage this tour?" Kono smirked remembering the size of her last one.
"Big," Pete commented, sounding a bit annoyed.
Maddie giggled. "That's your fault. If you wouldn't worry so much, you wouldn't be so tired at the end of each show."
"What? Why are you tired after shows?" Malia asked.
"Because when I'm on stage he often times insists on following me around from his spot on the floor. Wherever I am, you'll usually see Pete as close as he possibly can get to me without being on stage." Maddie jokingly glared at him.
"Which is just one of the reasons Pete is head of your security," Steve commented. Maddie turned and wrinkled her nose, giving her childhood best friend a pretend angry look. Steve laughed, "I should have you interrogate suspects with that face. It's THAT scary!" he mocked.
"I don't' think she'd have to make any kind of face to break a suspect. Bet she could just get them to talk," Danny added.
"Oooo I wanna try!" Maddie cried getting excited. Turning back to Steve she looked at him expectantly.
"No. No way! Are you crazy?" Steve exclaimed. He tried to look serious, but he was having a difficult time not smiling at the cute look on Maddie's face.
"Steve," Maddie began as she started giving him the sad puppy dog look.
"No! Don't even give me that look! Madeline, I'm serious!" he averted his gaze, using his left hand to cover his eyes.
Everyone started laughing and smiling at their cute interaction. Maddie giggled as she tried pulling his hand from his eyes.
"Madeline Lily! No! I will not let you interrogate dangerous criminals!" Maddie finally got his hand away from his face and he immediately shut his eyes. "No! I won't look!" he yelled, laughing.
"Ok, Mads, give him a break. I agree with him on this one," Joe said to her smiling at the two. It was a brief look at how they used to be, when Maddie was more like herself.
"Fine," Maddie pouted sitting back and looking straight ahead. Steve slowly opened one eye, making sure it was safe. "Really McGarrett? Scared of a little look? And you need Joe to fight your battles nowadays? I thought you were some badass Navy SEAL. Hiding from a girl…" She smiled at him, unable to keep her dimples from showing.
Steve smiled at her, ecstatic to see a glimpse of the real Maddie. Using his right arm, he pulled her even closer. Shaking his head, he leaned in and whispered, "I'm gonna get you back for that one. When you least expect it." The sexy growl in his voice turned her on, giving her goose bumps. Maddie turned to look at him. They stared into one another's eyes, their hearts pounding as they both fought the urge to kiss. Chin's voice pulled them away from one another.
"Maddie, I've missed you!" Chin laughed.
"Are you kidding me right now? I love you!" Danny exclaimed. "You're the only person I've met that gets to him like that! I know who I'm calling for help when I want to do something my way and he refuses. You're his kryptonite! Steve, you're actually human. I love it!"
"Really, Danno? I'd hate to kick your ass in front of your daughter!" Steve countered glaring at his partner.
Maddie elbowed him. "Language," she whispered, nodding towards Gracie.
"Sorry," he mumbled, sounding just like he did as a child. "I'd hate to kick your butt," Steve amended, glaring at Danny.
"Oh," Danny began.
"Okay, boys. I think there's been enough fighting for one night," Malia interrupted knowing the argument that was going to ensue if she didn't intervene. "I have a question. Why do you like the tour bus better than hotels, Mads?"
Her band, Ryan, Pete, and Tina all started laughing. Maddie rolled her eyes, leaning more into Steve without even realizing. "They make fun of me, obviously." She glared at them. "It's so weird going from one hotel to another. You're never in your own bed and the room's always different. At least with the bus, I have my own room, my own bedding, my own pillows. It's my home away from home."
"When we're on the bus she's a little more settled," Pete added.
"What do you mean?" Lori asked. Although she'd joined in on the laughter at the exchange between Steve and Maddie, she was rattled. She'd have to change tactics.
"It must just make her feel a little more normal. She can go home to her bus and the same room every night. She doesn't push her luck on stage as much. She doesn't take off as much. She doesn't," Pete said.
"In other words, she doesn't pull stunts like the one you heard about earlier as often," Ryan interrupted laughing.
"Push her luck onstage?" Rachel asked.
Maddie immediately cracked up, as did Ryan. "Oh, let's see. Stage diving would be considered pushing her luck," Pete answered shaking his head and giving her a stern look. "Do you know how scary it is to see her taken away by a sea of tens of thousands of people? Let alone how hard it is to get her back? Her fans want to keep her."
"Madeline," Steve growled from behind her, subconsciously pulling her closer where he knew she was safe.
Maddie turned to look at him. "But it's so fun!"
Although he was shaking his head, his lips twitched as he tried to keep from grinning.
"Do you ever do that kind of stuff when Steve's at the show?" Danny asked, curious to hear the answer. "He probably gets something worse than aneurysm face!"
Maddie smiled, her dimples showing as she stared at Steve. "No! She knows better!" Steve answered smiling back at her.
"So then, this show there won't be any of that?" Kono asked sounding disappointed.
"No, there will be no shenanigans," Steve answered, narrowing his eyes at Maddie.
"That might not necessarily be true," Ryan said. Maddie and Steve immediately looked at him.
"Ryan!" Steve cried. "Come on! I thought we were on the same side!"
"Well, I mean technically this is the last show of the first leg of the U.S. tour," Ryan told them.
"What does that mean?" Malia asked.
Maddie had a mischievous look on her face. "Mads, wipe that look off your face," Steve ordered. "Don't even think about it! I mean it!"
"Wait, what's going on?" Rachel asked.
"The last show of the tour turns into a free for all prank fest," Pete clarified, shaking his head. He always had to stay even more alert for those shows.
"So, boss, what's the verdict?" Ben asked sitting on the other side of the fire pit, right next to the opening.
"Honestly, guys? I hadn't even thought about it. It hadn't dawned on me that it's the last show of the first leg," Maddie answered truthfully.
"Thanks, Ryan!" Steve said sarcastically.
"I mean, this show's gonna be hard enough to prep for... throwing in pranks... I don't know. Might be too much," Maddie said as she mulled it over.
"Who are you, and what have you done with the real Maddie?" Ronnie asked.
"What do you mean?" she scoffed.
"You haven't done anything rebellious in months!"
"Really?" Maddie asked. Has it been that long, she wondered.
"Wait!" Pete exclaimed. "Can I just throw in how much I've appreciated that?" Everyone laughed.
"Yes! You're overdue! Plus, isn't it you that always says you don't mess with tradition? This is tradition!" Ryan reported.
"Do I have to decide right now?" Maddie asked.
"No, you don't, Inspector," Sam told her.
"So... anyway," Maddie said, turning her attention to Rachel. "Rachel, when are you due?"
"September 3rd," Rachel answered, absently rubbing her small baby bump.
"Congratulations!" Maddie smiled. "That's so exciting!" Looking to Gracie who was sitting between her mom and dad, she asked, "Are you excited for a little brother or sister?" Gracie nodded enthusiastically as she grinned. "Do you want a brother or sister?"
"A brother! I don't want to share my stuff with a sister."
Everyone burst into laughter. "Good thinking, Gracie!" Kono told her.
"Do you want kids, Maddie?" Rachel asked.
The question took her by surprise and she felt her cheeks flush as she was suddenly very aware of how Steve was holding her. "Yeah," Maddie answered, feeling self-conscious. She felt like everyone was looking between her and Steve. Although they'd been fielding comments and questions about their relationship status since they were teenagers, there was something different about it now. It felt different.
She froze as Steve gave her a light squeeze and his right hand slipped under the hem of her shirt, moving from her hip to her lower abdomen. While his hand wasn't completely on her stomach, it was enough that she noticed. What the hell does that mean? she wondered, her heart hammering. She glanced around to see if anyone seemed to notice, but they didn't.
"Would you tour?" Rachel asked.
"When?" Maddie replied.
"Would you tour pregnant? Is that even possible?"
Maddie didn't know what to say. She hadn't really thought about it. She'd thought about having kids, a lot, but hadn't pondered details like that. "I don't know. I've never thought about it."
"No, you wouldn't," Steve whispered behind her. He froze. Where did that come from? he wondered. Did I just say that out loud? His unease quickly verged on panic.
Maddie's eyes widened at his words. Does that mean he sees us having a child together? she wondered. However, her thoughts were interrupted when Steve removed his hand from her stomach. Slowly he pulled his arm from around her back as he reached for his beer and took a sip. However, her heart ached when he didn't put it back when he was done. Nope, definitely didn't mean that, she thought looking down.
"Would you tour with your kid, or kids?" Malia asked. "I know a lot of celebrities do it."
"I don't know," she answered softly. She was so mad at herself for letting her guard down for a few minutes with Steve. Desperate for a change of topic, Maddie asked, "Anyone up for S'mores... I'll go grab everything!" Maddie badly needed a minute to collect herself.
"I got 'em!" Pete answered immediately, not wanting Maddie to run from Steve. He stood quickly, not giving her a chance to argue. He had noticed how they both were uncomfortable all of a sudden. As he grabbed the supplies from the kitchen he thought about how Steve and Maddie had looked so at ease for a few minutes, joking and laughing. It had been a glimpse of how they used to be. They'd looked so natural leaned into one another, his arm around her, he thought. I wonder why he pulled away? Withthe supplies in hand, he returned to the group. "Here ya go!"
After everyone was given the necessary supplies, they got to work on the treats. "I've actually never made a S'more," Lori announced as she held her marshmallow over the flames. It caught on fire and Steve immediately laughed as he pulled her hand back.
"You left it in too long. Plus, you need to rotate," he told her putting a fresh marshmallow on her metal skewer. "Let me show you." Steve placed his hand over hers on the handle. "Okay, see how that side is starting to melt? Now rotate it a bit." Steve guided her hand to turn the rod.
"Oh, ok, I got it," Lori laughed, feeling giddy she'd been able to pull Steve's attention away from Maddie.
Maddie was dying inside. As she used her graham crackers to pull the hot melted marshmallow from her skewer she fought the urge to wipe the scalding, sticky substance on Steve's face. Adding the chocolate, she took a big bite. "I'm gonna go grab a glass of milk... so good with this," Maddie said with her mouth full. She quickly stood, and unfortunately, the last thing she was thinking about was that she needed to take it slow. "Uh oh," she murmured, as she swayed.
Once again it was as if time suddenly slowed. Steve overheard Maddie say she was going inside, immediately pulling his focus from Lori. Realizing she was going to pop up and get dizzy he went to keep her from standing, but he was too late. Hearing her "uh oh", his stomach dropped. She began to sway and he immediately worried she was going to fall in the fire. Steve quickly grabbed Maddie's left hand, her right still holding the S'more. However, it wasn't enough. He couldn't keep her upright by just holding her hand; she was too far out of reach. Luckily, Joe immediately realized what was going on. Because she was in front of him, he was able to put his hands on her waist, holding onto her until he was sure she was okay.
Still holding on to her hand, Steve asked, "You okay, Mads?"
Although the world was still spinning, she no longer felt like she'd pass out. Maddie plastered on a fake smile. "Just testing your reflexes, guys. I'm good!"
Joe let go of her, but Steve didn't. He knew she was upset and walking away because she thought he was flirting with Lori. He'd just been trying to help her, but now he realized how it had looked. Holding her hand tightly, he said, "Mads, Pete will go grab you milk. He's closer. Right, Pete?" Steve gave his buddy a pleading look.
"Of course!" Pete stood, understanding the situation.
"Nah. I got it," Maddie replied pulling her hand from Steve's. She took a big bite of S'more and walked to the kitchen.
Steve's eyes shut in frustration. They'd been doing so well. Well, at least until I freaked out, he thought. The timing was terrible as she'd finally been more like herself than she had the entire time she'd been back. He was worried she'd retreat again.
"Milk sounds good! I want some, too," Ryan announced.
"Me, too!" Ben added. Both men walked to the kitchen with their S'mores.
Waiting a second, Lori stood and asked, "Is there a restroom nearby?
"Yeah. Go inside and turn left at the kitchen table. It's your first door on the right in the hall," Kono told her.
"Thanks!" Lori replied, leaving the fire pit and heading towards the house.
Once Lori was out of earshot Steve sighed, throwing his head back and shaking it.
"Son," Joe said, his tone exasperated.
"Good thing you're not sitting next to me because I'd bust open all those cuts Maddie so kindly patched up for you," Danny commented, irritated.
"Damn, McGarrett." Chin shook his head.
"Yeah, I got it guys. Thanks," Steve growled.
As conversation picked back up Kono watched Steve sit silently, obviously angry with himself. Wanting to try and help, she stood. "That milk actually sounded really good. Anyone else want any? I'll bring some glasses and a pitcher. I'm sure Mads will help me."
Steve looked to Kono, and immediately understood what she was doing. Catching his coworker's eye, he flashed her a grateful smile.
Inside the kitchen, Maddie walked to the refrigerator.
"You know what sounds better than milk?" Ben asked as he and Ryan walked in.
She turned to look at them, and smiled. They're good friends, she thought, knowing they were there to try and cheer her up. "No, what?" As she took a bite of her S'more Ryan shoved it in her face, smearing the melted chocolate on her mouth and the tip of her nose, causing them both to crack up. "Ryan!"
"Ta da!" Ben sang pulling a bottle of tequila from a cabinet.
"Excellent idea!" Ryan smiled. Reaching in a cupboard near the fridge he pulled out three shot glasses. Once Ben filled them, he and Ryan each picked one up as they waited for Maddie to join.
She stared at it, not sure it was a good idea. It wasn't that Steve would be mad, that didn't matter to her. She knew starting rehearsals hungover would be a bad idea, and, Steve was right, she was still dehydrated. But then, the image of Steve and Lori popped into her head. What the hell, she thought. As she grabbed the glass the two guys cheered.
"Woo hoo! When was the last time we went drinking together?" Ben asked.
"Forever! You haven't gone out drinking with us in 4 months!" Ryan chimed in.
"Well, we can make up for that now!" Maddie smiled. "1... 2... 3!" On three they threw the tequila back. Maddie immediately made a face, swallowing quickly. Not having a lime or salt she took a big bite of her S'more. "Eww. S'mores and tequila are not a good mix! We need a lime or something."
"Takes too long to cut," Ben laughed, filling the glasses again.
"The bathroom this way?" Lori asked as she suddenly appeared.
The guys pushed the shot glasses and tequila bottle behind them. "Oh... um... yeah," Maddie uttered, surprised by her presence. Quickly recovering she walked over to Lori plastering on a smile. "Here, let me show you!"
"Thank you," Lori smiled. As they walked towards the bathroom, Lori decided to put her new plan into motion. "Hey, I was hoping you'd be interested in getting together sometime? Maybe a girl's night?"
Maddie effectively hid her surprise. She didn't want to be rude, but she also knew she wouldn't be able to handle hearing Lori talk about Steve. Remembering she was leaving Friday, she realized it didn't matter if she said yes. "Sure! I would love to! I could definitely use a night like that." Reaching the bathroom Maddie said, "Here ya go!"
"Awesome! I'll get your number before I leave and I'll give you a call! Thanks!" Lori turned and entered the restroom. Once the door shut, Maddie returned to the kitchen.
"Did we just hear that correctly? You're going to become best buddies with the woman trying to date your soulmate?" Ryan asked, his eyes wide as saucers.
"Shhhh!" Maddie hissed putting a finger to her lips.
The three froze as they heard the bathroom door open. As Lori walked towards the backdoor, she glanced to her left at Maddie and the two men and smiled. The second she was gone Ben and Ryan burst into laughter as Maddie grabbed a shot glass and downed the tequila. "So, you think she'll tattle on us? Should we expect your lover in here any minute?" Ryan joked, enunciating the world "lover".
"Shut up!" Maddie retorted giving him a light, playful shove. "Who cares if he does?" Ben and Ryan looked at her, their eyebrows raised. "Well just in case, we better drink fast. Can you fill mine up?"
"Good call!" Ben mumbled as he poured another round.
"Uno... dos... THREE!" Ryan shouted. They all laughed, no one taking the shot. "Okay... drink!" Ryan cried, and they all took it together.
"Well, if this isn't trouble I don't know what is," Kono smiled walking in. The three immediately straightened, pushing the shot glasses and bottle of tequila behind their backs. "Don't worry, I'm not gonna bust you. Well, as long as you let me join."
"Oh, Kono! I miss you when I'm gone! You really should come with me," Maddie said, pulling her friend into a hug.
"I miss you, too!" Kono hugged back. "Okay, let's drink some 'milk'" They all laughed at her joke.
Finally catching her breath Maddie gushed, a grin from ear to ear, "I love you, guys!"
"Are you already buzzed?" Ben asked grabbing a fourth shot glass for Kono.
"No!" Maddie lied, but then gave it away by smirking, not to mention the fact she couldn't meet their eyes.
"You are terrible! You are a disgrace! When did you become such a lightweight?" Ryan cried pouring all four of them a shot.
"I'm sorry! I haven't had any alcohol in months," she defended. Ryan smirked, shaking his head at her.
"Ok, on 'ohana'!" Kono smiled. "1... 2... Ohana!" All four drank. "Oh man! That's nasty!"
"It grows on you!" Maddie said.
"Only when you're already drunk, Mads!" Ryan told her.
"I'm only buzzed," she retorted.
"How many did you guys have?" Kono asked.
Maddie held up five fingers. "No! Mads, you got it wrong," Ryan chuckled bending one of her fingers down. "You've had four, and we've had three."
"Pour me two. I need to catch up!" Ben did as Kono requested. She took them back to back almost gagging when she was done while they cheered.
"That's why we're friends, Kono. You're badass," Maddie complemented.
Once she was done coughing, Kono looked to her friend. "McGarrett's going to freak out, ya know?"
"Whatever," Maddie said, rolling her eyes. "Pour another!"
While Ben poured another round Kono tried to talk to her. "Steve was pretty upset when you left. You know, it wasn't what it looked like. I promise! You guys were doing well! You both looked so happy!"
"Even if he wanted to be with me, it can't happen," Maddie reached for her glass.
"Why?" Kono asked curious, hoping her friend would open up to her.
"1... 2... Ohana!" Maddie cried and they all drank. Once she was done, she turned to Kono. "It doesn't matter."
"We better get out there before we get busted," Ryan said.
"Do we have to?" Maddie pouted.
"Yeah, sorry, Inspector," Ryan said pulling her to his side and kissing her temple.
"We better not go out all at once. Maddie you go first. You've been gone the longest," Kono said.
When Maddie shook her head, Ben walked towards the door and said, "Fine. I'll go first!"
A minute later they pushed Maddie towards the door. As she took a step outside she spotted Steve helping Lori into his hooded sweatshirt. She immediately turned around. "One more shot and then I'll go."
"Why? What's going on?" Ryan asked peeking out the door. Seeing what made her come back, he said, "Pour another round, Kono!"
"That bad? Okay." Kono hesitantly poured another round. Having seen Maddie have a few beers with dinner and now shots of tequila she was nervous. Plus, Maddie had said she hadn't had any alcohol in months, and she was recovering from a concussion. Keeping all that in mind, she made sure that Maddie's glass had half the amount as theirs did.
Maddie didn't wait for them before throwing back the amber liquid. "I need some kind of gum or something," she said.
"Here, I have some mint spray." Ryan pulled a little bottle from his pocket. Opening her mouth Maddie let him spray it a couple times.
"Woah! That's strong!" she exclaimed, scrunching her face at the taste.
"Now go get 'em!" Ryan ordered beginning to feel the effects of the tequila.
Maddie walked towards the door, but was quickly pulled backwards, almost causing her to fall. "What?"
"You've got chocolate all over your face!" Ryan laughed.
"Yeah, because of you," she smiled as he handed her a dishtowel. Quickly, she wiped her mouth and nose. "Good?" she asked showing them her face.
They both giggled. "No, over here." Kono signaled to the left side of her nose.
Maddie tried again. "Now?"
"Beautiful, sistah!" Kono gave her a thumbs up.
Ryan spun her around and nudged her out the door. "We'll be right behind you!"
"Where's your milk?" Danny asked as Ben took his seat.
"I drank it. Mads was right, awesome with S'mores," Ben answered trying to keep from smirking.
"Speaking of Maddie, where is she?" Steve asked.
"She'll be right out," Ben assured.
"Cold, Lori?" Rachel asked seeing her shiver.
"Yeah, a bit," Lori answered. Turning to Steve, she asked. "Are you cold?"
"No, not at all," he replied, distracted. His eyes were glued to the door to the house.
"Would you mind if I wore your sweatshirt then?"
Crap, Steve inwardly cursed, knowing how women saw meaning behind wearing a guy's clothes. However, he knew a lot of guys felt the same when it came to women wearing their clothes. While he and Maddie weren't actually together, there was something there. Even though she wouldn't tell him, he knew Lori coming onto him was bothering her. He didn't want Maddie getting the wrong idea if he let Lori wear his sweatshirt. However, he had already said he wasn't cold. He would be an ass if he didn't let her use it. I can't win either way, he thought. "Yeah, no problem." Steve wiggled out of the zip-up hoodie and started to hand it to Lori. However, she turned her back to him wanting him to help her put it on. Seriously? he thought, frustrated by the entire situation.
"Thanks so much, Steve," Lori smiled, biting her lower lip as she flashed him a flirty look.
"No problem," he mumbled, giving her a polite smile.
Maddie was walking towards the fire pit as she saw Lori and Steve smiling at one another. Her heart ached and she was suddenly glad she was drunk.
Seeing her, Joe kicked Steve who immediately looked over and watched as Maddie approached. He tried to get her attention, but she was avoiding him. Crap, he thought. Of course, she saw that and got the wrong idea.
"Hi," Maddie giggled. Ben turned and glared at her. She immediately clapped her hand over her mouth. As she tried to walk as normally as possible while looking at Ben, she tripped. Steve squinted his blue eyes, taking her in. He immediately realized she'd been drinking. Damn, he thought, worried.
Descending the couple stairs to the fire pit Maddie slowed next to Ben, intending on sitting next to him. However, he knew Steve wasn't intentionally screwing up, so he inconspicuously placed his hand on her lower back and gave her a light nudge towards Steve. Seriously, she thought. I'm definitely pranking him Wednesday.
Glancing over at Steve, she caught his earnest look. Her eyes traveled to his left to see Lori wearing his sweatshirt. She knew it was dumb and immature, but it bothered her. She wanted to be the only one that wore his clothes. Knowing she wouldn't be able to handle it if he acted touchy feely with her only for him to pull away again, she turned to her right to take the spot Kono had left open next to Pete. "'Scuse me. Sorry, Matt," Maddie mumbled as she bumped into him when she tried to squeeze by.
A wave of disappointment washed over Steve. He didn't want to analyze why Maddie not sitting next to him affected him so much. They weren't kids anymore. Things like that shouldn't bother him as much as this did.
The last tequila shots she'd taken were starting to hit her and just as she was taking the last step towards her seat she tripped. Pete was right on it and grabbed her arm. "Woah, Mads," Pete said. She giggled in response. As Maddie turned to sit he held on to her discreetly. "You all good?" Pete asked as he watched her wiggle around in the seat trying to get comfortable.
Finally getting comfortable, she turned her head and smiled at him. "Alllll good!" she answered.
How much did she drink in there, Steve wondered. At least she'd finally eaten dinner, but he'd have to make sure she drank a ton of water.
Maddie moved around obviously looking for something. Finally, Pete, put a hand out and stilled her. "What are you looking for?" he whispered not wanting to interrupt everyone's conversations.
"The metal sword thingy," she muttered.
Pete furrowed his eyebrows at Maddie in confusion. "The metal sword? What the-" He stopped, realizing what she was referring to. "Yeah, right here." He handed her a metal skewer. As she grabbed it she didn't notice Ryan and Kono walking up. She was carrying a big pitcher of milk while Ryan held a stack of plastic cups and a bottle of water.
"Here's the milk!" Kono smiled, feeling a bit tipsy herself. Maddie jerked her head in their direction.
"Milk," Maddie mumbled, giggling.
Once Kono sat down in Maddie's old spot next to Steve, she made eye contact with her friend, They both immediately broke into hysterics. Ryan and Ben chuckled as they shook their heads in amusement.
"What kind of milk did you guys have?" Danny quipped, smirking.
"The best kind, brah," Kono smirked.
"Want another S'more?" Pete asked Maddie as he grabbed the bag of marshmallows she'd been looking for.
"Sure do," she cheerfully proclaimed taking two marshmallows from the bag and jamming it on the skewer. "Ouch," she whispered, poking herself.
"Here, Mads, let me help you," Pete stated, taking the skewer from her and holding it over the fire.
Maddie watched him roast her marshmallows. Satisfied with their light brown toasted color, she poked Pete's arm. He brought the skewer to them and watched her try to pull the marshmallows from it. Noticing she was having a tough time making the S'more, he grabbed the two graham crackers and placed Hershey bars on them before holding it in front of her. She smiled as she added the sticky marshmallows. Pete squished the two halves together and held it out for her. Instead of taking it Maddie took a big bite. "Mmmmm," she loudly purred causing everyone to laugh. She reached out taking the treat from Pete.
While Malia told a story about something funny Chin had done the other day, Maddie focused on her S'more. Steve smirked as he watched her enjoy the treat. She'd always had a huge sweet tooth. As she pulled it away from her mouth, he chuckled. "Is it good, Mads?" Looking up, she wrinkled her forehead in confusion. "Saving some for later?" He used his thumb and brushed it along the skin above his lips, signaling for her to wipe the same spot on her face. Steve's gaze lingered as he watched her slowly slide her tongue along her top lip.
"If I made another S'more, would you share it with me?" Lori asked. Steve turned towards her, reluctantly taking his eyes off Maddie's mouth. "I want one, but am too full to eat a full one. Plus, gotta watch my figure!" She laughed slightly.
"Um, I'm not that hungry." He smiled and lowered his voice. "But," he paused, not wanting to comment on Lori's appearance. "Just be a rebel, eat the entire thing! I won't tell."
After quickly making the S'more, Lori squished the toasted marshmallow between the graham crackers and flashed him a flirty look. Leaning towards him she whispered, "I think you really want some and are just too afraid."
"Seriously Lori, I'm okay. But thank you," he said, letting her down.
Maddie had been watching inconspicuously from her spot between Pete and Kono. Her eyes grew large at the upfront way Lori ate her S'more. Although wishing she could, she was unable to peel her eyes away from the two even though her chest ached.
Noticing her shiver, Pete asked, "You cold, Shorty?"
She was grateful for the distraction as it forced her to look away just as Lori had leaned in whispering to Steve. Maddie was convinced they were going to kiss, and didn't know why she'd been torturing herself and watching. She turned to Pete and nodded. "A little."
Steve turned away from Lori when he heard her voice. He watched Pete unbutton his shirt and take it off, before holding it up and assisting Maddie into it. Drunk, she struggled slightly, unable to find the hole to put her arms through. Without drawing any attention to themselves Pete guided her thin, but toned arms through the sleeves.
When she struggled with the buttons, Pete shook his head and chuckled. "Here, Shorty," Pete said as he pushed her hands away and buttoned the shirt.
"You are literally drowning in that," Ryan laughed.
"Yeah, Mads, that's a good look for you! Super hot!" Ronnie joked.
Goofing off she stood and began striking poses. The sleeves were way too long, so her hands couldn't be seen and the bottom of the plaid shirt went a little past the middle of her thigh. Smiling, Steve inconspicuously pulled his phone out and snapped a picture of her. An image of Maddie in one of his button down shirts she'd stolen popped into his mind. Except she'd be wearing nothing except the shirt, an image he found he really liked.
As Maddie took her seat, she couldn't help but notice how drained she felt. Reaching down she picked up the bottle of water Ryan had brought her. However, because the sleeves were so long she was having a difficult time opening it. "Pete, would you mind rolling these?" she asked holding her arm out to him.
"Of course," he smiled, quickly rolling both sleeves up to her elbows. Thirsty, she quickly drank half the bottle of ice-cold water. Setting it back down on the floor she shivered, the light wind mixed with the water giving her a chill.
Noticing, Pete began rubbing his hands up and down her arms, trying to warm her up.
"Seeing you do that reminds me of that winter three years ago," Tina said. Steve, Maddie, and Pete all started chuckling, knowing exactly what she was referring to.
"There's a story here! Please share," Danny instructed.
"It was a couple days after New Year's and we were in New York. Steve had been in D.C. for a few days for work and when he was finished he came up and stayed with us at the house. Anyway, it was probably fifteen degrees outside and what do these two nutjobs do?" Tina recounted, pointing to Steve and Maddie.
Maddie met Steve's eyes and smiled slightly as she giggled.
"Hold on! Let me just say that she started it! If you're gonna tell the story, T, don't leave anything out!" Steve remarked, calling Tina by her nickname. Maddie shook her head, her smile growing.
"Okay, well we'd gone out to dinner. Because it was so hard to get a cab due to the snowy weather, and the fact Maddie loves the cold, we decided to walk the three blocks back to the house... in fifteen degree weather! Steve and Maddie were arguing, both claiming they were right about... I can't even remember. Anyway, becoming frustrated he told her she was the most stubborn person alive and…"
"She pegs me with a snowball! No, no, an ICEBALL! Hard! And in the back of the head! And let me tell you, she's got an arm on her," Steve interrupted.
"You deserved it," Maddie laughed. "Claiming that I'M stubborn!"
"I absolutely DID NOT deserve it!" Steve countered.
Signaling to their current behavior Tina said, "You get the idea!" Everyone laughed. "Anyway, he pegs her hard with one right back. Before we," Tina pointed between Pete and herself, "even knew what happened, the two were in an all-out snowball fight. Who knows how long it would have gone on if Pete and I hadn't broken it up. The two were soaking wet and absolutely freezing. Poor Maddie, her lips were so blue! Once back at the house, Pete had Maddie wrapped in a few blankets, rubbing her arms up and down as she shivered uncontrollably. Steve and Maddie sat upstairs in front of the fire for hours trying to warm up arguing over who had won. They're insane."
"You went head to head with Steve in a snowball fight?" Danny asked.
"Yeah, she did. And she showed no mercy! I don't know how she packed them so tight, but she did. And let me tell you, they hurt! They were more ice than snow," Steve reported.
"What can I say? It's a talent," Maddie slightly slurred, more from being exhausted than intoxicated. As Tina told the story Maddie had somehow ended up leaned into Pete, his left arm behind her back.
"Mads!" Joe called to her from across the fire pit. Maddie looked towards him. He held his hand up in the air like he was going to give her a high five. She did the same as they gave each other an 'air high five'. "I bet he did deserve it," he laughed.
Steve smirked, shaking his head. "I see how it is."
"It was pretty funny," Pete smiled, reminiscing.
Maddie made eye contact with Steve and smirked. "For the record, I won, ya know?"
"You won the snowball fight?" he smiled.
"Yeah," she nodded.
"Oh, okay," he grinned, giving her a 'sure you did' look.
"I love mischievous, stubborn Maddie," Kono stated, more to herself than anyone in particular.
"Me, too," Ryan added.
"Yeah," Ben said.
"Guys! Quit trying to egg her on for the show," Pete warned.
"Who said anything about the show?" Ryan responded, winking at Maddie.
"Let's just first make it to Wednesday," Maddie said, sounding sleepy.
"Lame! When did you start playing it safe?" Ronnie inquired.
"Yeah, old lady?" Ryan ribbed.
"Boring!" Matt added.
"You guys don't know what's going on in my head. For all you know, I have a ton of things planned and you aren't cool enough to know about them," Maddie retorted.
"You better not," Steve and Pete said simultaneously causing everyone to laugh.
Once the laughter died down, Danny looked down at his daughter asleep on his lap. "Well, as much as I've enjoyed this evening, it's getting late and I better get Rachel and Gracie home."
"Yeah, we have an early day tomorrow," Ben announced. The band slowly stood.
"I'll walk you guys out," Maddie said. Knowing she was going to get dizzy, especially since she was intoxicated, Pete stood first. As she rose, Pete subtly wrapped an arm around her waist to keep her steady. Once she felt better, she pulled away and walked forward, trying to hide her limp. He remained close, just in case.
He was definitely the right choice for the job, Steve thought as he watched closely. Pete had mastered the art of helping her without anyone even realizing what was happening. It was nice to know she had someone so in tune with her when he wasn't around.
After saying goodbye to everyone just outside her front door, Maddie walked back inside. Steve had followed Lori to her car and she wanted to give them privacy. As she entered the kitchen, Malia was placing everything she needed to sew Steve's arm up on the counter.
"Where's Steve," Chin asked when he noticed Maddie was alone.
"With Lori," she answered sadly. Before they could bring anything up, she said, "I'm gonna go take my guitar back to the studio and pack a couple things for the venue tomorrow."
As Pete, Malia, and Chin watched her limp towards the patio, Malia asked, "Do you think they'll figure it out?"
Chin quietly thought over her question before he answered. "I think so. As long as McGarrett continues to show her how he feels and can somehow get her to realize he can take care of himself."
"It was a lot of fun," Lori said, smiling at Steve as they stood at her car. "Thanks for including me."
"I'm glad you were able to make it," Steve replied. "I know Maddie really wanted you to come."
Lori felt nervous at the way he'd implied that Maddie had been behind the invite and not him. "She's great! She's really sweet." She took in his slightly rigid stance and the fact he hadn't closed the gap between them.
"Yeah, she's the best. I'm happy she's back even though the circumstances aren't great," he responded.
Lori walked towards him, closing the distance between them. "I know. I'm so sorry this is happening to her, and I'm here to help in any way I can," she whispered as she wrapped her arms around him.
Steve fought to keep from tensing at the contact. "Thanks, Lori." He waited a beat before pulling out of the hug. He sighed knowing he had to just get it over with. "I'm really glad you're on the team, and that we've become friends-"
"Me, too," she interrupted, smiling up at him.
"But that's all that's going to be between us," he finished.
"I don't understand," she calmly replied. "I thought we had a connection?"
Steve had always hated these kinds of conversations, but this one took the cake. He had to be careful since they worked together. He didn't think she'd screw them over with the Governor, but he wanted to be careful in case his instincts were wrong. Plus, he liked Lori, and didn't want to hurt her. "You're great and I'm really glad we went out and got to know one another better. Maybe in another time with different circumstances things would have been different."
Although she was devastated, Lori knew she had to play it cool. She wasn't an idiot, she knew Maddie was the reason he was ending things, but Maddie traveled the world constantly. How long could they make it work? She'd be here when he realized he was making a mistake. "I understand. I'm really glad we got to know one another better, too." She forced a smile. "I hope this doesn't make it weird at work. I didn't think I would, but I really enjoy being part of Five-O, and I'm glad the Governor forced me on the team."
Steve could feel the relief fall off him in waves. She was taking this so much better than he thought she would. "Of course! You're an asset to this team, and we're really lucky to have you."
"Thanks," she smiled. "And, I'm still here to help in any way I can. We'll find her stalker, Steve."
"I really appreciate it. I think you're profiling background will be helpful." There was a brief, awkward silence before he finally broke it. "I better get in there so Malia can stitch me up. I'm sure she needs to get home."
"Yeah, I better get going as well," Lori said. Wanting to prove to him that she wouldn't make this awkward, she reached forward and quickly hugged him before turning and getting in her car. "Bye, Steve."
"Bye." Although anxious to get inside to Maddie, Steve waited until Lori was in her car, started it, and was making her way down the long driveway before turning towards the house.
"Where's Maddie?" Steve asked as he entered the kitchen.
"She's outside. She's taking a couple things back to the studio," Chin answered.
"I'm gonna go see if she needs help. She's exhausted and drunk," Steve said.
"Here, I'll go help Maddie while you let Malia patch you up," Chin offered.
"Thanks," he said as he sat down next to Malia.
Having just closed the circular glass door next to the piano, Pete announced, "I'm going to bed. We have a long few days."
"Night," Steve called.
Looking at the cuts on his left cheek and left forearm Malia asked, "Are you sure you don't wanna go to the hospital?"
"Yeah," he muttered. He wouldn't admit it, but he didn't want to be away from Maddie that long. Who knew how long he'd be at the hospital. He wanted to get her in bed and to sleep. She was going to need the rest. Plus, he wanted to be alone with her. He knew he'd only get to see her when she came back to sleep over the next few nights, so he wasn't going to miss time with her tonight because he was getting stitches.
"Okay, well I have some topical cream I can use to numb the area a little, but it's still going to hurt," Malia told him, concern in her eyes.
"That'll be fine. I can handle it. Don't worry, Malia," Steve assured her, rubbing her upper arm.
Sighing she began removing the butterfly strips from the inside of his arm.
Chin walked into the kitchen just as Malia finished stitching up Steve. "I'm gonna go check in on Mads," Malia said. "I want to give her a bag of fluid tonight."
"Good, she got sick during the party," Steve replied.
"Really? How many times?"
"Just once," Steve answered.
"Well, just keep an eye on her. I'll go start a new IV and you can attach the saline bag when she gets in bed. She needs this to help her get through the next couple days. She was still dehydrated and now that she had all that alcohol... well, it just made it worse," Malia said before walking out to the patio, supplies in hand.
"She's in the studio!" Chin called after her. Turning towards Steve, he said, "She's upset."
"I know." Sitting at the counter Steve ran his fingers through his hair. "I don't know how to get through to her... about anything."
"Just keep trying. Don't give up on her. She needs you right now," Chin told him. "She's not normal Maddie right now."
"I wish she would tell me what she knows about this stalker," Steve sighed. He had to figure out a way to reach her, to make her understand he could take care of himself.
"We'll figure it out. Danny, Kono, and I are already meeting you at Five-O in the morning. Lori has plans, but said she'd try to make it in the afternoon. If not, she'll help on Monday."
"Thanks, Chin," Steve said, meeting his friend's eyes. "I know it's your day off. I really appreciate it."
"No big deal! Maddie's like a little sister to me. We'll figure this out." Chin paused, hesitant to pry, but needing to ask anyway. He cleared his throat. "So, what happened outside with Lori just now?"
Steve knew the question would come up, but it didn't mean he wanted to talk about it. "I told her that I'm not interested in more than friendship with her," he confessed.
"Really?" Chin replied, his surprise evident.
"Yeah," Steve sighed.
"How'd she take it?"
"Really well, actually."
"That's great," Chin said feeling relieved. He'd been worried Lori wouldn't take it well. After a moment of silence he said, "I still think you have a few things to clear up with Mads about what happened last night."
"Yeah, I know," Steve sighed. He hated that Maddie had been under the impression he'd slept with Lori last night. Although he'd tried several times to bring up the photo and his relationship with Lori, she'd refused to have the conversation and had shut down on him every time. He should have forced it. The night might have gone very differently if he had.
"Alright, we are good to go," Malia said walking in from outside. "Just attach the bag when you get her in bed." She set the saline on the counter next to him.
"Will do. Thanks, Malia!" Steve hugged her.
"No problem," she said, rubbing his upper back before pulling out of the hug. "We're gonna head out. She was in her studio, but I saw her stumbling towards that big hammock thing near her studio."
"How drunk?" Steve asked.
"She's drunk, but she's coherent and can carry on a conversation," Malia smiled.
"Okay, thanks. Goodnight, guys," he said before walking out the back.
Steve walked across the lawn towards the large, circular floating bed (similar to a hammock) hanging from a wooden beam. It was surrounded by trees and was located between the pool and her studio. The base was a comfortable cream, thick, down, circular pad. Large, plush pillows, the same color as the base, went all the way around the perimeter of the circle except for one spot. This spot acted as the opening used to get on and off. Both sheer and opaque curtains hung around the circle used either for privacy or to shield its inhabitants from the sun. The curtains could also be tied together in a bundle to either let the sun fully in or to have an unobstructed view of the stars.
Steve smiled as he approached, seeing Maddie lying inside. I wonder if she's even awake? he wondered remembering how sleepy she'd looked in the fire pit. Stopping a few feet away, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Just talk to her... it's just Maddie, he told himself. Feeling as confident as he was going to, he walked the last couple feet and stopped at the entrance.
"Go away," Maddie slurred, a beer in her hand.
Damn it, Steve inwardly cursed as he reached in and quickly grabbed the beverage from her. Holding it up to the strands of lights in the surrounding trees he saw she'd already had half of it. Knowing she'd try and get it back, he did what he'd done upstairs in her bathroom. He chugged. "Ah," he said as he finished. "That's good beer." He smirked at her scowling face.
Lying on her back, Maddie propped herself up on her elbows as she watched him. "Hey!" Maddie exclaimed annoyed he'd taken and then drank her beer. "Uncool," she mumbled lying back down.
"I'm coming in," he warned climbing through the opening and lying on his side next to her. He propped his head up on his elbow and faced her. She continued to lie on her back staring up at the stars through the sheer curtains while Steve watched her. Finally, the silence became too much. "We're gonna have to talk about this, ya know."
"There's nothing to talk about," Maddie softly slurred, her voice sad.
"Madeline," Steve sighed, moving a bit closer to her.
"Go home, Steve. Or better yet go see Lori. I'm fine here."
"I'm not going anywhere. No matter how hard you push, I'm staying right here with you. And, why would I go see Lori?" Steve asked as he slid even closer. Although he already knew the answer, he hoped she'd finally tell him what was bothering her.
"Go."
"Nope."
"Go!" Maddie raised her voice slightly.
"No. I'm exactly where I want to be, and I'm with the person I want to be with. Look at me," Steve instructed. Maddie refused. She could feel the tears behind her eyes and refused to cry in front of him anymore. I used to never cry and now I'm hardly ever not crying, she thought, irritated with herself. Steve reached over and flipped Maddie onto her side so she was facing him.
"Steve!" Maddie yelled, looking down and still not meeting his eyes.
Gently he lifted her chin, forcing her to make eye contact. "There's those gorgeous eyes," he smiled, brushing hair behind her shoulder.
She scowled at him, ignoring his flirty comment. "Just because you're bigger than me and have all those muscles," she began to get distracted looking at his great body. Her hand trailed over his chest for a second before snapping out of it. "Doesn't mean you can man handle me and make me do whatever you want," she cried, lightly pushing against his chest.
Steve smirked at her, pulling her closer. "Too bad... there's a few things I'd like to do with you." Especially in here, he thought. Under the stars.
Ugh, why does he have to look at me like that and be that close when I'm this horny, she silently cursed. "Stupid tequila," she whispered, shaking her head.
Not exactly the response I was hoping for, Steve thought, confused. He furrowed his eyebrows, "What are you talking about?"
Maddie's eyes widened, not realizing she'd said that out loud. "Uh..." She smiled uncomfortably. "Nothing, I gotta go." She blushed, popping up quickly.
"Wait... what's," Steve asked stopping when he realized what was happening.
"Woah," she murmured feeling the world spin. "Too fast," she said as she slid down, once again laying on her back.
"You okay?" Steve asked sitting up so he could look down on her. She nodded looking extremely pale. "Did something happen tonight? You were still getting dizzy, but nothing like this. It's as if the progress you made just disappeared." Maddie's eyes moved from side to side as she bit her lip. Knowing that look he sighed. "Tell me. What happened?"
"Trust me, it's no big deal! You won't even care when I tell you," she told him.
"You think I don't care?" Steve shot back. "What the hell, Madeline? How could you think that?"
"I didn't mean it like that." She propped herself up on her elbows. "But even if I had, why are you getting mad? You're the one flip-flopping back and forth," Maddie yelled. She mimicked his voice, "I'm alone with Maddie, let me flirt with her. Oh wait, now we're in public, I don't want anyone thinking that I could possibly feel that way about her. Plus, there's Lori, forget Maddie!"
"You think I'm ashamed of you?" he whispered, devastated. How could she think that? he asked himself.
"Let's just forget it, Steve," Maddie said, starting to slide on her butt towards the opening of the floating bed. She didn't have it in her to argue. She was too tired and in too much pain for this.
"Why? So, you can just take off on Friday?" Steve snapped.
With her back to him, she closed her eyes at his words. Taking a deep breath, Maddie turned around. "Did Pete tell you?"
"I saw your laptop," he whispered sadly, obviously hurt.
"Awesome. So now you're snooping in my stuff?"
Steve shook his head. "Don't do this, Maddie. Don't run. Not from me. We can figure this out." She said nothing. "Don't go. Stay. You owe me that. You owe us that. Things will get better, I promise." He watched her stare off into space as a few tears rolled down her face. "How about this?"
Maddie hesitantly made eye contact with him, and his heart broke at the pain and fear he saw in her eyes. Steve wiped the stray tears from her face as he began, "We still send Pete and the guys on vacation, but for three weeks. You stay here in Hawaii and I'll stay with you. If things aren't better and you still want to leave by the end of the three weeks, I won't stop you. You can go."
God, she really wanted to, but at the same time she didn't. For so many reasons. As she tried to run the pros and cons of each choice, he sat there patiently waiting for her answer. His heart pounded, afraid she'd say no and he'd lose her forever. But, she knew she owed it to him not only because they had known one another for so long, but also aftershe hadn't been there for him when his dad was murdered. But what if something happens to him? she wondered. And can I handle seeing him and Lori together?
When Maddie looked away, his heart dropped. She's going to say no, he thought, swallowing the tears he could feel forming at the back of his eyes.
Everyone's told me to give him a chance, she thought, but she knew it was dangerous to stay with him. After another minute of deafening silence, Maddie finally turned to look at him. She felt guilty seeing the sadness in his eyes. "Okay," she whispered. "Deal."
"Seriously?" Steve asked his face breaking out into a smile.
"Yeah," she sadly said.
Seeing and hearing how hurt she was brought him back to reality. She only agreed to stay for three weeks. Nothing's fixed between us, he reminded himself. "One more thing," he began.
"Hm?"
"No more pushing me away and," he paused, looking directly into her eyes. "We go with the flow," Steve proposed.
"Okay," Maddie agreed, wondering what exactly he meant by "go with the flow". Guess I'll find out, she thought.
"Alright," Steve smiled at her, taking her hand in his. "This is a start."
Feeling tired she laid back down on the soft mattress while he held her hand, his thumb brushing lightly against her soft skin in soothing circles. For several minutes they let their tentative truce wash over them. Nothing was fixed, not even close, but hopefully they'd stop fighting. Finally, Steve broke the silence, "Alright, Mads, let's go. It's late and you need sleep."
"Okay," she mumbled drowsily.
Steve slid out first before standing on the grass in front of the opening. "Come on."
Maddie rose and immediately felt dizzy as she scooted the foot to him. Sitting on the edge of the bed with her legs dangling over, her eyes opened and closed as her head swayed slightly. "Okay, what's going on? Tell me what happened," he insisted, as he stood between her legs, his hands on the middle of her thighs.
She waited for the world to stop spinning before answering, "I hit my head."
Steve's face immediately paled. "What? What do you mean? When?"
"When I was walking to the studio to grab my guitar. I tripped and fell. I didn't want to land on my knee, so I moved midair. Instead, I fell on my side and my head hit the ground."
Concern on his face, Steve reached forward, placing his hands on her head. "Where? Which side?"
She moved his hand to the spot. "Damn, you already have a big bump. How's your head?"
"Headache," she told him sleepily.
"How bad?"
"Pounding," she admitted.
"The entire night?"
"Yeah."
"Maddie, why didn't say anything?" She shrugged her shoulders. "Did your headache get worse after you fell?"
Maddie knew he was not going to like her response, but answered anyway. "A lot worse."
Steve's heart pounded as worry filled him. "How else do you feel? Is it just your head that hurts?"
"Not as bad as I did before the tequila shots," she chuckled as she shivered from a gust of wind.
Noticing she was cold, Steve slid his arms up and down her bare ones. "Let's go inside. We'll figure it out once we're upstairs and warm." He kissed her forehead before pulling back and holding out his hands to her.
Hesitantly, Maddie took them and he helped her up. She stumbled for a second as she put weight on her right leg. "Ow," she whispered at the pain in her knee and foot.
"Come here." Steve scooped her into his arms. Exhausted, she leaned her head against his shoulder as she stifled a yawn. "Baby, you're a mess," he whispered, kissing her forehead as he carried her to the house.