The sun was just beginning to rise when Rafe finally pulled away from the two girls, his mind clouded by alcohol, drugs, and the intense physicality of the night. He sat up slowly in the unfamiliar bed, the room spun slightly, reminding him of how far he'd pushed himself to forget. To forget the hurt, the betrayal, and the emotions that clung to him despite his best efforts to shake them off.
He glanced over at the two girls, both of them still asleep, their bodies tangled in the sheets. They were beautiful, their presence a temporary balm to his pain, but as he stared at them, he felt nothing. No satisfaction, no sense of accomplishment. Just emptiness.
What had seemed like a good idea in the moment now felt like another mistake, another poor attempt to numb the ache inside him. The connection he was seeking, the intimacy he had once felt with Allison, was nowhere to be found.
Rafe sighed, running a hand through his messy hair. He slid out of bed as quietly as he could, careful not to wake the girls. He pulled on his clothes, his movements slow and deliberate as if each motion was an effort. His mind was a storm of conflicting emotions—anger, guilt, betrayal, and something deeper, something he didn't want to acknowledge.
As he dressed, Rafe's gaze fell on his phone, lying on the nightstand where it had been buzzing periodically with messages—most of them from Allison, each unread message a silent accusation. The sight of her name sent a sharp pang through his chest. The hurt in her words, the desperation in her apologies, echoed in his mind, yet he hadn't allowed himself to respond. He had ignored her, too consumed by his own hurt to consider what she might be going through.
He walked out of the bedroom, leaving the sleeping girls behind, and made his way to the small balcony overlooking the ocean. The fresh morning air hit him as he stepped outside, the sound of the waves crashing against the shore was soothing, but it did little to calm the turmoil inside him. He leaned against the railing, staring out at the water as he struggled with his thoughts. The events of the past few days rushed back to him with startling clarity. Allison's face, the way she had looked at him with tears in her eyes, haunted him. He had been so angry, so blinded by his emotions that he hadn't stopped to listen. He had shut her out and pushed her away, but now, in the quiet of the morning, he couldn't escape the lingering ache in his chest. He had known from the start that getting involved with Allison was dangerous, but he hadn't expected it to cut this deep. He hadn't expected to care so much.
He had always prided himself on being tough, on not letting anyone get too close. But Allison had been different. She had broken down his defenses and made him feel things he hadn't felt in a long time—maybe ever. And now, in his anger, he had pushed her away, maybe for good. The thought of losing her, of never seeing her again, filled him with a dread that he couldn't shake.
Rafe pulled out his phone, hesitating as he opened Allison's messages. Finally, with a deep breath, he opened the messages. Her words were raw, filled with regret and longing, each one hitting him like a punch to the gut.
Allison: "Rafe, I know you're angry, and you have every right to be. I messed up. I should have been honest with you from the start. I ended things with Jordan because I realized how much you mean to me. I can't stop thinking about you. Please, just talk to me. I miss you."
Rafe's heart ached as he read her words. The anger he had clung to began to dissolve, replaced by a sadness that was even more difficult to bear. He had been so wrapped up in his own pain that he hadn't considered hers. The thought of Allison suffering, feeling as lost as he did, made his chest tighten.
Rafe stared at the screen, his fingers hovering over the screen as he debated what to do. He wanted to reach out, to tell her that he missed her too, that he was sorry for pushing her away, but his pride told him to keep his distance, to let her suffer the consequences of her actions. But the pain in his chest, the gnawing feeling that he had made a terrible mistake, wouldn't let him.
Every time he tried to type a response, the words felt inadequate. How could he convey everything he was feeling? How could he make her understand the depth of his emotions when he barely understood them himself?
His thoughts were interrupted by the feel of warm hands wrapping around his waist from behind. The girl from the night before was awake, her voice still husky with sleep. "Hey, why did you leave the bed?" she asked, her lips brushing against his shoulder as she began to place soft kisses along his back.
Rafe stiffened at the touch, his mind still caught between the pull of the present and the weight of his thoughts. "I just needed some fresh air," he murmured, his voice lacking the conviction he usually carried.
The girl took his phone from his hand, placing it on the table beside them. "Forget about that," she whispered seductively.
Rafe turned towards her, as she continued speaking, "I thought the two of us could have some time for ourselves." her hands slid up to the back of his neck as she pulled him down for a kiss.
Rafe kissed her back, but there was no passion in it, no real desire. It was just another attempt to lose himself, to drown out the emotions he didn't want to face.
"I didn't get enough of you last night." She whispered against his lips.
Rafe said nothing, he just continued to kiss her, his hand romaged over her back down to her butt. He lifted her off the floor with ease and carried her to the sofa that was on the balcony before he sat down. She straddled his lap, her naked body pressing against him, but as she moved, all he could think about was Allison—the way she had fit perfectly in his arms, the way her touch had made him feel alive in a way that no one else could.
He let himself get lost in the moment, his hands roaming over her body, but his mind was miles away. Even as he gave in to the physicality, there was a part of him that was disconnected, detached. It was like watching someone else, feeling the motions without truly being present.
When it was over, and the girl left, Rafe found himself staring at his phone, the weight of Allison's messages pressing down on him. He had the chance to respond, to reach out, but something held him back. Maybe it was pride, or maybe it was fear—fear of what it would mean to let her back in, to admit that he cared more than he wanted to.
Instead, he turned off his phone, burying the emotions that threatened to surface. He had chosen his path, and now, in the early light of day, he was left with nothing but the hollow satisfaction of knowing that he had succeeded in pushing her away. For now, that was enough.
・ • ・ • ・
A few days had passed since Allison had last seen Rafe, and every moment without him felt like an eternity. Despite her numerous texts and calls, he hadn't responded, though she knew he'd opened them. That small acknowledgment gave her a sliver of hope that he had at least read her words, even if he wasn't ready to reply.
Jessica's birthday party was the last place Allison wanted to be, but Jessica, desperate to lift her friend's spirits, practically begged her to attend. Two hours before the party started, Jessica barged into Allison's room with a bottle of wine, insisting they start drinking while getting ready. Jessica knew the only way to get Allison out of her funk was to get her tipsy enough to stop overthinking, and eventually, she succeeded. By the time they came downstairs, the alcohol had dulled the edge of Allison's heartbreak, and the loud music pulsing through the air helped distract her from the pain.
Brandon, Jessica's boyfriend, met them at the bottom of the stairs. He quickly wrapped an arm around Allison's shoulders, steering her away from the crowd gathering to wish Jessica a happy birthday. He led her into the living room, where a group of his friends were lounging on the couches, surrounded by a haze of smoke and the telltale signs of a party—empty bottles, crushed cans, and lines of cocaine neatly arranged on the coffee table.
Allison's gaze lingered on the drugs, her resolve weakening as she stared at the white powder. Brandon noticed, and with a smirk, he nudged the guy next to her, who promptly handed her a rolled-up bill.
"Go ahead, take as much as you want. It's on the house," Brandon said, his tone casual, as if he were offering her a harmless treat.
Allison didn't hesitate. She took the bill, leaned forward, and snorted a line. The familiar burn in her nostrils was quickly followed by a rush of euphoria that spread through her body like wildfire. For the first time in days, she felt the weight on her chest lift, the nagging ache in her heart dulling to a distant throb.
"Make me another one," Allison demanded, her voice tinged with the reckless abandon that only cocaine could bring. The guy beside her grinned, eagerly leaning forward to prepare another line.
Rafe had just walked into the party with Topper and Kelce, the three of them exchanging greetings with familiar faces. As they passed through the crowded living room, Rafe's ears caught a female voice shouting over the music, "Hey, Allison, take it easy."
His heart skipped a beat as he turned his head, just in time to see Allison bending down to snort another line. A surge of conflicting emotions hit him—anger, concern, a pang of jealousy—but he quickly turned away, heading straight for the bar set up in the corner. He poured himself a drink, downing it in one go before doing a line of coke himself, trying to numb the feelings that Allison's presence had stirred up.
Allison, oblivious to Rafe's arrival, laughed as she leaned back on the couch, the vodka Jessica handed her adding to the dizzying mix of alcohol and drugs in her system. She took several swigs, the liquid fire searing down her throat, chasing away the thoughts of Rafe. All she wanted was to forget—to lose herself in the buzz, in the music, in anything that wasn't the aching void he had left behind.
"I just want to have fun!" Allison shouted, her voice loud enough to be heard over the pounding bass as she pushed herself up from the couch. She grabbed Jessica's hand, dragging her onto the makeshift dance floor, the two of them moving to the rhythm of the music. It felt good—liberating, even. For a brief moment, she forgot everything, focusing only on the beat, on the way her body moved in sync with her friend's.
But then, as the dance slowed and Brandon suggested they head outside, Allison's heart sank as they stepped onto the patio. There, sitting between two girls, was Rafe. One of them was clinging to him, her hand possessively resting on his thigh. Allison's stomach twisted, a wave of nausea rising as she watched him. This could have been their night, their chance to be together in front of everyone, but instead, he was here, surrounded by others, seemingly indifferent to her presence.
Jessica, sensing her friend's distress, whispered, "I didn't know he was coming."
Allison felt the heat rising in her cheeks, her sobriety cutting through the haze of alcohol and drugs like a cold blade. "I'm going back inside," she muttered, turning on her heel before Rafe could notice her.
But Rafe did notice. He saw her just as she was turning away, her retreat a stark contrast to the confident, carefree girl he had once known. The sight of her walking away sparked something inside him—a flicker of the emotions he had been trying to bury. With a frustrated sigh, he pulled his arm away from the girl beside him, ignoring her confused protests.
She pouted and tried to hold his arm, but Rafe angrily shook her off.
"What's wrong, baby?" She looked confused at him. A few seconds ago, he was completely fine with everything.
"Just fuck off," he muttered, brushing her off as he stood up.
Jessica watched him closely, understanding immediately. "She's inside, Rafe. Go talk to her. You both need to talk."
Rafe didn't respond, but the urgency in Jessica's voice spurred him into action. He made his way back into the house, his heart pounding as he searched for Allison.
Inside, Allison leaned against the wall, clutching another drink, her mind racing. She wanted to disappear, to drown herself in the alcohol, but before she could take another sip, a stranger approached her, his eyes roving over her body with an intensity that made her skin crawl.
"You look amazing," he practically purred, his voice oozing with an unwelcome familiarity.
"Thanks," Allison replied, forcing a smile that didn't reach her eyes. She took a long gulp from her drink, trying to ignore the way his gaze lingered on her.
"Having fun?" he asked, leaning closer, his breath hot against her ear.
"Not really," Allison admitted, the alcohol loosening her tongue.
"Let's change that," he suggested, offering her a smile. "Want to dance?"
Allison hesitated but nodded, desperate for anything to take her mind off Rafe. She let the stranger lead her to the dance floor, his hand resting on her waist as they moved to the music. At first, it was fine—innocuous, even—but as the crowd grew thicker, the atmosphere changed. The stranger's hand tightened on her waist, pulling her closer until their bodies were pressed together, his movements growing more insistent, more aggressive.
"Whoa," Allison protested, trying to push him away. "Can you stop?"
He ignored her, his hands sliding lower, groping her in a way that made her skin crawl. Before she could react, he slapped her ass, his touch lingering in a way that made her stomach churn.
"Relax, baby," he murmured, his lips brushing against her neck. "I'm not going to hurt you."
But Allison didn't feel safe. She felt trapped, suffocated by his presence. Panic surged through her as she struggled to free herself from his grip, her voice trembling as she tried to push him away. "I don't want to dance with you anymore!" she shouted, shoving him as hard as she could.
She broke free, her heart racing as she fled up the stairs, seeking refuge in the only place she could think of—guest room bathroom. She shut the door behind her, her hands shaking as she tried to regain her composure. She could still feel the stranger's hands on her, the way he had touched her without her consent, and the terror that had gripped her.
Allison snorted a line of coke, hoping the drug would calm her nerves, but it did little to ease the fear that still lingered. When she emerged from the bathroom, she was startled to see the stranger standing in her bedroom, his eyes dark with intent.
He took a step toward her, and Allison's heart leapt into her throat. "I was thinking," he began, his voice low and dangerous, "If you don't want to dance, maybe you can use those moves for something else."
"No," Allison replied, backing away. "I don't want to."
But the stranger wasn't listening. He closed the distance between them, his hand closing around her wrist as he yanked her toward the bed. Panic seized her as she tried to pull away, but he was stronger, his grip unyielding.
"Leave me alone, jerk," Allison exclaimed and slapped him across his face. Her handprint almost immediately appeared on his cheek and he wasn't happy about it.
He just laughed under his breath.
"It wasn't a question," he hissed, his breath hot against her ear as he shoved her onto the bed. He pinned her arms behind her back with one hand, his weight pressing down on her as he leaned in close. "Be a good girl and don't move. If you try to hit me again, you'll regret it."
Tears welled in Allison's eyes as she struggled to breathe, the reality of the situation crashing down on her. "Please, stop," she begged, her voice trembling with fear.
A knock at the door interrupted them, and the stranger quickly covered her mouth with his hand, stifling her cries. "Be quiet," he whispered, his voice cold and threatening.
"Allison, are you here? I think we should talk," Rafe's voice called from outside the door. He knocked again, louder this time. "Allison?"
Allison's heart soared at the sound of his voice, but the stranger's grip tightened as he whispered, "Don't make a sound."
Allison whimpered, her muffled cries barely escaping through the hand clamped over her mouth. The panic she felt was overwhelming, her heart racing as tears streamed down her cheeks. Desperation clawed at her, and she knew she had to do something—anything—to get Rafe's attention.
Outside the door, Rafe knocked again, frustration lacing his voice. "Allison?"
"Fuck off, man, we're busy," the stranger shouted from inside, his voice laced with annoyance.
He was about to leave, convinced that she was in there willingly, when he heard a sound—a soft, terrified whimper that made his blood run cold.
Rafe's hand hesitated on the doorknob. Something wasn't right. His instincts screamed at him that something was wrong, and his heart pounded as he leaned closer to the door, listening intently.
Inside, the stranger was growing more impatient, his voice low and menacing. "If you scream again, I'll make sure you regret it."
Allison's fear spiked, and with the last bit of strength she had, she bit down on the hand covering her mouth, sinking her teeth in as hard as she could. The stranger yelped in pain, his hand jerking away from her face.
"You fucking bitch!" he snarled, raising his hand to strike her.
"RAFE!" Allison screamed with all her might, her voice raw with terror. "RAFE, HELP!"
The sound of her voice—so desperate, so frightened—sent a shockwave through Rafe. In an instant, he shoved the door open, his eyes locking onto the horrifying scene before him: the stranger pinning Allison down, his hand wrapped around her throat, squeezing the life out of her.
Rage like he'd never felt before surged through Rafe. He crossed the room in two long strides, grabbing the stranger by the collar and yanking him off Allison with a force that sent him stumbling to the floor. The guy barely had time to react before Rafe's fist connected with his face, the impact sending him sprawling.
Rafe didn't stop. He was a whirlwind of fury, his fists flying as he pummeled the guy, the sound of his knuckles cracking against flesh filling the room. The stranger tried to fight back, but Rafe was relentless, his anger fueling every punch, every kick. All he could think about was the fear in Allison's eyes, the way she had called out to him for help, and the absolute certainty that if he hadn't intervened, something far worse would have happened.
Allison sat up on the bed, her body trembling violently as she watched Rafe unleash his wrath. She wrapped her arms around her knees, tears streaming down her face as she struggled to catch her breath. The adrenaline that had kept her going was fading, leaving her feeling weak and shaky.
"Rafe..." she managed to croak out, her voice barely above a whisper.
Rafe paused, breathing heavily as he glanced back at Allison. The sight of her—so small, so vulnerable—broke through the red haze of his anger.
He grabbed the guy by his collar and pulled him to his knees, "Get out of here and if I even just see you again, I'll fucking kill you," Rafe snarled, throwing the guy out of the bedroom and slamming the door shut.
He rushed to Allison's side, "Are you okay?" Rafe asked, his voice soft, but laced with urgency as he sat beside her on the bed. He reached out to her, his hand trembling slightly as he brushed a strand of hair away from her tear-streaked face.
Allison looked up at him, her eyes wide and filled with gratitude and something else—something deeper, more profound. "You saved me," she whispered, her voice cracking with emotion. "Thank you."
Rafe's heart clenched at her words, guilt and relief washing over him in equal measure. He had almost walked away, almost left her to fend for herself. The thought made him sick to his stomach.
"I'm so sorry," Rafe said, his voice thick with regret as he pulled her into his arms. "I should have been there sooner. I shouldn't have let this happen."
Allison shook her head against his chest, her fingers clutching the fabric of his shirt as she held onto him. "It's not your fault. You're here now. That's all that matters."
They stayed like that for a long time, holding each other as the reality of what had almost happened sank in. Allison's body slowly stopped shaking as she calmed down, her breathing evening out as she let herself be comforted by Rafe's presence.
When she finally pulled back, she looked up at him, her eyes red and puffy from crying, but there was a softness in them that hadn't been there before. "I'm sorry, Rafe. I'm surprised you even want to talk to me. I know you're angry with me, and I don't blame you. I messed up, but I care about you so much. I don't want to lose you."
Rafe lifted a hand to her cheek, his thumb gently wiping away a stray tear. "I was angry, Allison. I was hurt, but I never wanted to lose you either. I just... I didn't know how to handle it."
Allison nodded, understanding the pain she had caused him. "I ended things with Jordan because I realized how much you mean to me. I don't want anyone else. I want to be with you. Only you."
Rafe's heart swelled at her words, the last remnants of his anger dissolving. "I want to be with you too," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "I just couldn't stand the thought of sharing you with anyone else."
"You won't have to," Allison promised, her voice trembling with sincerity. "I'm yours, Rafe."
Rafe leaned in, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both tender and filled with unspoken emotion. It wasn't like their previous kisses, the ones driven by passion and desire. This one was different—deeper, more meaningful. It was a kiss that spoke of forgiveness, of second chances, and of a love that was just beginning to bloom despite the odds stacked against it.
All too soon, she felt Rafe pulling back from the kiss, but Allison moved forward, keeping their lips connected. She felt him smile against her lips. The two kissed for a few more minutes, but knowing they both had to breathe, their lips disconnected.
Rafe rested his forehead against hers, his eyes closed as he savored the closeness. "Let's go back to the party," he suggested, his voice a low murmur. "But only if you want to."
Allison hesitated, her mind flashing back to the terrifying moment she had just endured. "I don't know if I'm ready to face everyone," she admitted.
Rafe pulled back slightly, looking into her eyes with a reassuring smile. "We don't have to. We can stay here, just the two of us."
Allison felt a warmth spread through her at his words. "Maybe we should stay here for a little while," she agreed, her voice soft.
Rafe nodded, understanding. "Whatever you need, Allison. I'm here."
As she looked into his eyes, Allison felt a sense of peace settle over her—a feeling she hadn't had in a long time. Despite everything that had happened, she knew she was safe with Rafe. And as they sat there, wrapped in each other's arms, she realized that maybe they could find their way back to each other after all.
Allison stood in front of the bathroom mirror, her hands shaking as she tried to fix the smudged makeup under her eyes. The bruises on her neck were starting to darken, and each time she caught a glimpse of them, a fresh wave of nausea hit her. She dabbed more foundation onto her skin, trying to cover the evidence of what had almost happened, but no amount of makeup could erase the fear she felt.
She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, but the tears kept threatening to spill over. Her hands trembled as she applied powder to set the foundation, her mind replaying the moment she had screamed for Rafe, the raw terror that had gripped her heart.
She heard Rafe's footsteps approaching the bathroom, and the sound of them was both comforting and terrifying. She hadn't expected him to see her like this—so vulnerable, so broken. As he leaned against the doorframe, watching her with concern etched across his face, she couldn't help but feel exposed.
"You have your makeup and clothes here?" Rafe asked, his voice soft, trying to break the tension in the air.
Allison nodded, her voice catching in her throat. "Uh, I live here at the moment. I bought a few things because my stuff is still at Kie's house."
Rafe's brows furrowed in confusion, and he took a step closer. "Why do you live here?" he asked, his tone gentle but laced with concern.
Allison hesitated, her eyes meeting his in the mirror. "Jordan knew I was using cocaine," she finally admitted. "He told Kie, and she told her parents. They found a bag in my room. Then Kie and I had a fight, and her parents told me that I shouldn't live with them anymore."
Rafe's expression hardened slightly at the mention of the pogues, his protective instincts flaring up. "I told you I want to protect you from them. You can never trust those pogues," he said, his voice low but firm.
Allison nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. "I just can't believe my own sister would do that to me," she whispered, her voice filled with pain. "She was so mean, and she said awful things about you. I had to punch her."
Rafe chuckled softly, taking a few more steps toward her until he was standing directly behind her. "So you punched her because of me?" he asked, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
"Yes," Allison replied, a faint smile finally breaking through her sorrow.
Rafe leaned in, his hands wrapping around her waist as he pressed his chest against her back. "She never liked me anyway, even when she was hanging out with Sarah every day at our house," he murmured, his breath warm against her ear.
"Well, I like you, so she can't say things like that," Allison said, her voice stronger now, the warmth of his embrace giving her courage.
Rafe's eyes softened as he looked at her reflection in the mirror. "I like you too, baby," he whispered, his lips brushing against her ear in a way that sent shivers down her spine. His eyes were locked with hers in the mirror, and she could see the sincerity in his gaze, the depth of his feelings for her.
He smiled at her, then his expression darkened slightly as he noticed something on her neck. He gently moved her hair to the other side, revealing the bruises left by the stranger's fingers. "You'll probably want to cover this up too," he said, his voice filled with quiet anger.
Allison glanced at her reflection, disgusted by the sight of the bruises. She quickly took more foundation and dabbed it over her neck, her hands steadier now that Rafe was with her. But the look in his eyes, the way his jaw clenched and his fists tightened, told her that he was far from calm.
Rafe ran a hand through his hair, his body tense with barely contained rage. "I'll find that guy and I'll—"
"Rafe!" Allison interrupted, turning to face him. "Let's just not talk about this till the end of the night." She looked up at him, her eyes pleading. "I want to enjoy it with you, and I want everyone to know we are together. Everyone."
Rafe's anger softened at her words, and he smiled down at her, his hands resting on her hips as he pulled her closer. "So, not a secret anymore?" he asked, his voice teasing but his eyes serious.
"Definitely not," Allison replied with a small smile. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him into a kiss, her lips pressing against his with a newfound sense of purpose. This kiss wasn't just about passion; it was about healing, about finding comfort in each other after everything that had happened.
Rafe deepened the kiss, his hands sliding up her back, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them. Allison could feel his heart beating against her chest, strong and steady, and it was the most reassuring thing she had felt all night.
When they finally pulled back, Rafe rested his forehead against hers, his breath warm against her lips. "We don't have to go back down if you don't want to," he murmured, his voice soft and understanding.
Allison looked into his eyes, seeing the genuine concern there, the willingness to stay with her no matter what. It made her heart swell with emotion, and for the first time in days, she felt truly safe. "I want to go down," she said softly, "But only if you're with me."
"Always," Rafe promised, his voice a low whisper as he kissed her again, this time with more fervor, as if sealing the promise they had just made to each other. "Come on," he said after a moment, pulling back with a soft smile. "Let's go back to the party. I want everyone to know you're mine."
Allison laughed softly, nodding as she took his hand. "I'm all yours," she replied, squeezing his hand gently.
They walked back down to the party together, Rafe's arm protectively draped around her shoulders. The moment they stepped outside, their friends turned to see them, and it was clear to everyone that something had changed. The girl who had been clinging to Rafe earlier noticed first, her face lighting up with a smile as she saw him approaching.
"Hey, where did you disappear to?" she asked, her voice full of playful curiosity.
Allison stepped forward, her chin held high as she spoke with quiet confidence. "He was with me," she said, her voice strong and clear. She felt Rafe's arm tighten around her, pulling her closer to him.
Jessica, who had been watching the exchange, grinned widely. "Lovebirds are back together!" she announced, her voice full of excitement.
The girl who had spoken first furrowed her brows in confusion. "I didn't know you had a girlfriend."
Rafe smiled down at Allison, his eyes filled with pride and affection. "Well, I do," he said, his voice firm and unwavering. He looked at Allison, their eyes locking, and in that moment, there was no doubt in her mind that they were exactly where they were meant to be.
Jessica stood up, clapping her hands together. "I'm happy you two sorted things out," she said, her voice warm and genuine. "Sit down, relax. This is your night too."
Rafe pulled Allison down onto his lap, his arm wrapped securely around her waist as they settled into the chair. Allison could feel the tension in his body start to ease as they sat together, the warmth of his embrace grounding her.
"Do you want anything?" Jessica asked, gesturing to the array of drinks and drugs laid out on the table.
Allison shook her head, her voice firm. "No, I'm good."
"I'll have one," Rafe said, leaning forward to grab a rolled-up bill and a small bag of cocaine from the table. He glanced at Allison with a playful smile. "Hold still," he murmured, making a line on her thigh before snorting it up.
The sensation of Rafe's breath against her skin sent a shiver down her spine, and she couldn't help but smile as he whispered in her ear, his voice low and raspy. "This one was better than any before."
Allison turned her head slightly, her lips dangerously close to his. "Is that right?" she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Mhm," Rafe hummed, his lips brushing against hers before closing the distance between them in a deep, passionate kiss. The world around them seemed to fade away as they lost themselves in each other, the connection between them stronger than ever before.
Their kiss was interrupted by Topper's groan. "Get a fucking room, man," he complained, rolling his eyes.
Jessica laughed, leaning into Brandon. "What do you think they've been doing upstairs? Makeup sex is the best."
Allison pulled away from Rafe, her cheeks flushing slightly as she turned to Jessica. "What? "Did I say something wrong?" Jessica asked, feigning innocence.
Allison shook her head with a small laugh. "No, it's fine."
The girl who had been eyeing Rafe earlier looked at them with curiosity. "You two were fighting? What happened?"
Rafe's expression hardened, his tone becoming gruff. "None of your damn business," he snapped.
Allison could feel the tension returning to Rafe's body, and she quickly changed the subject. "I need something to drink," she said, reaching for a bottle of vodka on the table. She took a long swig, feeling the warmth of the alcohol spread through her body.
As the night deepened and the pulse of the party seemed to fade into a distant hum, Allison found herself sinking deeper into the comfort of Rafe's arms. The tension between them simmered just below the surface, electrifying the air around them. Every time she shifted on his lap, she felt the unmistakable heat of his desire, a fire that mirrored her own. It was intoxicating, the way he wanted her—raw, urgent, unfiltered.
Rafe's grip on her waist tightened almost imperceptibly, his voice low and rough with suppressed need. "Stop moving," he growled quietly, the irritation in his tone laced with something far more primal.
Allison's lips curled into a mischievous smile as she felt a thrill of power surge through her. "What's wrong?" she teased, her voice soft yet taunting.
"You know exactly what's wrong," Rafe muttered, his lips brushing against her ear, sending shivers down her spine. "And you're going to have to take care of it."
Her heart raced as she bit her lip, excitement coursing through her veins. The challenge in his voice, the way his breath hitched with every movement she made, was like gasoline to the fire already burning between them. "I'll take care of you later," she whispered back, her breath warm against his ear, knowing exactly what those words would do to him. "Don't worry."
Rafe's response was immediate, a low, guttural groan that sent heat pooling in her belly. His body tensed beneath her, his control fraying at the edges. "I don't know if I can wait till later," he admitted, his voice thick with need, each word dripping with the desire that had been simmering between them all night.
Allison couldn't help the grin that spread across her face. "Do I affect you that much?" she asked, her tone playful, even as she felt her own control slipping.
Rafe buried his face in the curve of her neck, his lips grazing her skin in a way that made her knees weak. "More than you think," he whispered, his voice barely more than a breath, heavy with the weight of what he wasn't saying.
The intensity between them was growing unbearable. Allison knew she couldn't keep teasing him much longer. The heat, the tension, the unspoken need—it was all building to a breaking point. She could feel the moment slipping away, and she wasn't ready to let it.
"I have to go to the bathroom," Allison finally said, her voice breathless, her words an excuse as much as a statement.
"You can't," Rafe's grip tightened, his frustration palpable. He wasn't ready to let her go, not when the need for her was burning through him like wildfire.
"Come with me," Allison suggested, her eyes alight with mischief, her heart pounding in her chest.
Rafe didn't need any more convincing. The moment she tugged on his hand, he was on his feet, following her through the crowd. The anticipation crackled between them, an almost tangible force that drew them closer with each step.
As soon as they were inside the bathroom, the door clicked shut behind them, and Rafe's eyes locked onto hers with a hunger that made her breath catch. He didn't waste a second, closing the distance between them in one swift motion. His hands were on her, rough and urgent, pushing her back against the cool tiles, as if he couldn't get close enough, couldn't feel enough of her.
Allison gasped at the intensity of his touch, her hands finding their way into his hair, pulling him down into a desperate, heated kiss. There was nothing gentle about it—this was a need, pure and raw, a hunger that had been building between them for too long.
"So I'm guessing you want me to take care of you?" Allison murmured, her voice low and breathy as she glanced down at the bulge pressing insistently against his pants.
Rafe's grin was nothing short of wicked. "Well, since you caused this problem, I don't see any other way," he replied, his voice a rough growl that sent shivers down her spine.
Allison stepped closer, her fingers brushing over the hard length of him, teasing him just enough to elicit a strangled groan from his lips. "Oh, yeah?" she taunted, her voice a sultry whisper as she let her hand trail lower.
"Get on your knees, princess," Rafe's voice was a command, and it thrilled her to no end.
Slowly, she sank to her knees, her hands sliding down his chest as she went. Rafe's breath hitched, his eyes darkening with anticipation, his body trembling with the need he was barely holding in check.
She took her time, savoring every second as she peeled his pants down, the anticipation between them crackling like electricity. When she finally freed him, the sight of his cock, hard and thick, sent a rush of heat through her. The tip was already slick with pre-cum, a sign of just how long he'd been holding back.
Allison bit her lip as she looked up at him through her lashes, the wicked smile on her lips driving him wild. She wrapped her hand around his shaft, her touch firm yet teasing, and began to stroke him slowly, just enough to drive him wild without giving him the release he craved. Rafe's head fell back against the wall, a low groan escaping him as he gave himself over to the pleasure she was giving him.
"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Rafe rasped, his voice low and strained, barely able to hold himself together.
"Maybe a little," Allison replied with a smirk, leaning in to press a soft, lingering kiss to the tip of his cock.
Rafe's hips jerked in response, a strangled moan slipping from his lips as she took him deeper, her mouth hot and wet, her tongue swirling around the head in a way that made him shudder. Rafe let out a guttural moan, his hand instinctively moving to tangle in her hair.
"Fuck, Allison," he muttered, his voice thick with the need she was stoking with every movement of her mouth.
She worked him skillfully, her hand and mouth moving in perfect sync, her touch just light enough to keep him on the edge. The tension in his body was palpable, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he fought to hold on to his control.
But Allison wasn't interested in letting him keep it. She wanted to see him come undone, to push him over the edge and watch him fall apart under her touch. She hollowed her cheeks, sucking harder, her hand moving faster as she felt him start to lose himself in the pleasure.
"I'm gonna cum," Rafe warned his voice a guttural growl as his hips thrust up to meet her mouth, the words barely more than a breath as he teetered on the edge.
Allison didn't slow down. If anything, she pushed harder, her determination to make him lose control unwavering. She moaned around his cock, the vibrations sending shivers through his body, driving him closer to the edge.
Rafe's moans grew louder, more desperate, his hips moving erratically as he felt himself tip over the edge. With a strangled cry, he came, hot and thick, spilling down her throat. Allison swallowed every drop, savoring the taste of his release, her hand and mouth working in tandem until he was completely spent.
She released him slowly, her tongue tracing a final, lingering path up his length before she sat back on her heels, looking up at him with a satisfied smirk. Rafe was breathing hard, his chest heaving, his eyes glazed with satisfaction as he looked down at her.
"That was... incredible," he panted, a lazy smile spreading across his face as he pulled her to her feet.
Allison wiped the corner of her mouth, her smirk growing as she replied, "I know."
Rafe didn't waste a second before pulling her into his arms, his mouth crashing down on hers in a kiss that was both tender and possessive. The taste of him lingered on her lips, a reminder of the power she held over him. When they finally pulled away, their foreheads rested against each other, both of them smiling, their breath mingling in the small space between them.
"I want you to move in with me," Rafe blurted out, his voice serious despite the lingering haze of pleasure.
Allison blinked, pulling back slightly to search his eyes, surprised by the sudden declaration. "What?"
"Move in with me," Rafe repeated, his voice steady, his eyes full of conviction. "I'm staying at Glissons. They're in Sun Valley all summer. I want you there with me."
Allison considered his words for a moment, the weight of what he was asking sinking in. It was a big step, a leap into something more real, more permanent. But as she looked into his eyes, saw the sincerity there, she realized that it was exactly what she wanted too.
"It could be fun," she finally said, a small smile tugging at her lips.
"It will be," Rafe assured her, his voice softening, his hand coming up to caress her cheek. "So, do you want to?"
"Yes, I want to," Allison replied, her voice firm with the certainty that had settled in her heart. She leaned in, capturing his mouth in a kiss that was as much a promise as it was an answer.
They kissed passionately, the fire between them reigniting as they gave themselves over to the moment. It was a kiss that spoke of everything they wanted, everything they were willing to fight for.
"When they finally broke apart, their breathing heavy, Rafe spoke against her lips, 'If we continue this, you'll get me turned on again.'
Allison smiled, her breath warm on his skin as she whispered back, 'What's so wrong with that?' Her voice was teasing, playful, as she trailed a line of kisses along his jaw and down his neck, feeling the way his pulse quickened beneath her lips.
Rafe's hands tightened on her hips, his fingers digging into her soft skin as he fought to keep his composure. The desire between them was palpable, thickening the air and making it almost impossible to think clearly.
"You're going to drive me crazy," he muttered, his voice a rough growl as he buried his face in her hair, inhaling the sweet scent of her.
Allison laughed softly, the sound low and breathy. "That's the plan," she replied, pulling back just enough to meet his gaze, her eyes dark with a mix of affection and desire.
In a swift motion, Rafe suddenly pushed her against the wall, his hands firm as they gripped her waist, lifting her effortlessly. Allison gasped, but the sound quickly turned into a soft moan as she wrapped her legs around his waist, locking her ankles behind his back. She could feel the heat of his body pressing against her.
'You're mine,' Rafe murmured against her neck, his voice low and possessive as he trailed kisses down the column of her throat. His words sent a shiver of pleasure through her, a thrill that only intensified the connection between them.
Allison's hands tangled in his hair, pulling him closer as their mouths met again in a searing kiss, their bodies moving together in a rhythm that was both desperate and urgent. She was growing impatient, her desire for him building to a fever pitch. She needed him, all of him, in a way that was overwhelming, almost consuming.
As they grinded against each other, their kisses becoming more frantic, Allison could feel him growing hard again, his arousal pressing insistently against her. Rafe's hands roamed over her body, finally reaching the delicate lace of her panties. His fingers brushed over the fabric, feeling the dampness there, evidence of her desire for him.
'You're so wet,' Rafe whispered against her skin, his voice thick with need as he kissed the sensitive spot just below her ear. The words made Allison shiver, her breath hitching as she arched into his touch, craving more.
She moaned as his fingers teased her through the lace, her hips bucking against his hand. 'Please, Rafe...' she whimpered, her voice barely more than a breathy plea.
Rafe pulled back slightly, his eyes dark with intensity as he met her gaze. 'Please what?' he asked, his voice a low rumble that made her pulse quicken.
'Please, fuck me,' Allison begged, her voice filled with a desperate need that she could no longer control.
Rafe smirked, the wicked glint in his eyes making her stomach flip with anticipation. 'Like this?' he asked as he pushed her panties to the side and slid one finger inside of her, the sudden intrusion making her gasp.
'No,' Allison moaned, her hands clutching at his shoulders as she tried to pull him closer, needing more.
Rafe raised an eyebrow, his smirk growing. 'No?' he repeated, teasingly pulling his finger out, leaving her feeling empty and aching.
'What about this?' he added, sliding two fingers inside her this time, the movement deliberate and slow, making her whimper in pleasure.
It felt better, and more intense, but it still wasn't enough. 'Rafe...' Allison moaned into his ear, her voice trembling with need.
'Yeah?' Rafe's voice was a rough whisper, his fingers still working inside of her, hitting just the right spots to make her tremble.
'I need your dick inside of me,' Allison cried out desperately, her voice edged with frustration and desire.
Rafe's smirk turned into a grin, his pace slowing as he teased her. 'Why didn't you say so?' he murmured, pulling his fingers out, leaving her feeling empty again.
Without another word, Allison reached between them, her hand finding his cock, hard and ready. She gave him a firm stroke, eliciting a sharp intake of breath from him. She lined him up with her entrance, her body practically humming with anticipation.
Allison moaned, her head falling back as he slid into her in one swift, fluid movement, filling her completely. The sensation was overwhelming, a mix of pleasure and relief as he stretched her, claiming her in a way that felt right like they were made for this.
Rafe set a hard, steady pace, each thrust deep and deliberate. Allison's moans filled the small bathroom, her hands clutching at his shoulders, her nails digging into his skin as he drove her closer to the edge with every thrust. Her legs trembled around him, her body arching into his, needing more, wanting everything he could give her.
'I'm so close,' Allison whimpered, her voice trembling as the pleasure built inside her, a wave of heat and tension that threatened to consume her.
Rafe grunted in response, his breath hot against her neck as he angled his hips just right, his thumb finding her clit and adding the perfect amount of pressure. 'Come for me,' he murmured against her skin, his voice a rough command that sent her spiraling over the edge.
Allison let out a small scream, his name tumbling from her lips as the wave of pleasure crashed over her, her body convulsing in his arms as she came hard, clenching around his cock as he continued to slam into her. The intensity of her orgasm left her breathless, her mind fogged with pleasure as she held onto him, her only anchor in the storm of sensation.
Rafe wasn't far behind. The tightness of her body around him, the way she called out his name as she came, pushed him over the edge. With a few more powerful thrusts, he found his own release, spilling inside of her with a guttural groan, his body shuddering with the force of his climax.
They stayed like that for a moment, both of them trembling, their hearts racing as they caught their breath. The world outside the bathroom seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them, connected in a way that felt deeper than just physical.
Rafe was the first to move, gently setting Allison down on her feet. She swayed slightly, her legs still shaky from the intensity of what they had just shared. His hands were there to steady her, his touch gentle as he helped her adjust her skirt, smoothing out the fabric with surprising tenderness.
Their eyes met, and in that shared gaze, there was an understanding, a mutual acknowledgment of everything that had happened, of the things that had been said and done. Rafe brushed a stray lock of hair from her face, his fingers lingering on her cheek before he leaned in to press a soft kiss to her forehead, a gesture that was as much a promise as it was an apology.
'You okay?' he asked softly, his voice filled with genuine concern.
Allison nodded, her breath still shaky as she smiled up at him. 'Yeah, I'm good,' she replied, feeling a warmth spread through her chest at the sincerity in his voice.
Rafe's hands lingered on her for a moment longer, his touch reassuring. There was a tenderness in his actions that she hadn't expected, a gentleness that made her heart swell with affection.
'I mean it, Allison,' Rafe said, his voice steady as he met her gaze. 'I want you with me. I need you with me.'
Allison's smile widened, her heart swelling with a mix of happiness and relief. 'I want that too, Rafe. I really do.'
"I don't want to waste any more time. I want to be with you, Allison. For real." Rafe's voice was firm, but not forceful.
Allison looked into his eyes, searching for any hint of doubt, but all she saw was sincerity and a deep, unwavering affection. She realized then that this was what she had been searching for all along—someone who wanted her, flaws and all, who was willing to fight for her and Rafe wanted the exact same thing.
A smile spread across her face as she leaned in to kiss him softly. "Okay," she whispered against his lips. "Let's do it."
Rafe grinned, a look of pure joy lighting up his face as he kissed her back, this time with more passion, and more promise. It was a kiss that sealed their future together, a kiss that spoke of all the things they hadn't yet said but both knew in their hearts.
When they finally pulled away, they were both smiling, their foreheads resting against each other as they basked in the warmth of the moment.
'Let's go back to the party,' Rafe suggested, his voice softening as he pulled her close, his hand resting on the small of her back. 'But remember, you're mine, and I'm not letting anyone else near you.'
Allison chuckled, shaking her head as she leaned into him, feeling a sense of contentment settle over her. 'You don't have to worry about that,' she assured him, her voice filled with a quiet confidence.
They left the bathroom hand in hand, rejoining the party with a renewed sense of connection. The music, the lights, the people—all of it seemed to blur into the background as they focused on each other, lost in their own world.
The rest of the night passed in a whirlwind of laughter and dancing, their bodies moving in sync with the music, their hearts beating in time with the rhythm. For the first time in days, Allison felt light, free from the weight of her worries. The warmth of Rafe's embrace, the way he looked at her with pure adoration, made her feel like everything was going to be okay.
As the party finally started winding down, Allison felt a sense of peace that she hadn't experienced in a long time. She glanced up at Rafe, who was watching her with a look that made her heart flutter.
"Ready to go home?" Rafe's voice was soft, a comforting contrast to the thumping music that still played in the background. His eyes were locked on Allison, filled with a warmth that made her heart skip a beat.
Allison nodded, her smile gentle but full of contentment. "Yeah, let's go," she replied, the words coming out in a whisper as if speaking any louder might shatter the delicate peace that had settled between them.
They said their goodbyes to their friends, who seemed oblivious to the emotional journey the two had just shared. Jessica waved them off with a knowing smile, a twinkle in her eye that told Allison she was happy to see them together again. The air outside was cool, a refreshing change from the heat of the party. As they walked hand in hand through the quiet streets, the sound of their footsteps the only noise in the night, Allison felt a deep sense of calm settle over her. It was a calm she hadn't felt in weeks, a reassurance that despite everything, she and Rafe were going to be okay.
Rafe led her to his car, opening the door for her with a small, almost shy smile that made Allison's heart melt. It was such a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes about how much he cared. She slipped into the passenger seat, watching as he walked around to the driver's side, his movements relaxed, unhurried.
As they pulled away from the house, the quiet hum of the engine filling the silence between them, Allison found herself leaning back in the seat, letting out a sigh she hadn't realized she'd been holding. The tension that had been building inside her for days seemed to dissipate, replaced by a deep sense of relief. She glanced over at Rafe, who was focused on the road ahead, his hand resting casually on the gearshift. There was something so reassuring about his presence, something that made her feel safe, and protected.
After a few minutes of comfortable silence, Rafe reached over and took her hand, intertwining their fingers. The simple touch sent a warmth spreading through Allison's chest, and she squeezed his hand in return, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She couldn't help but marvel at how far they had come, how much they had been through, and yet here they were, stronger than ever.