She’s real. She’s not putting on a show, or trying to be something she’s not to get my attention. She’s just Allison.
Aiden and I go to the counter to pay. When we make it back to the booth, there are two punks in our seats. The punk beside Allison is leaning his shoulder into hers, obviously flirting with her. The other has his arm on the back of the booth behind Hales. I don’t know the fuckers, but I recognize them from around campus. I’m channelling all of my inner calm, so I don’t beat the shit out of these two. Aiden and I step up to the booth. Hailey’s worried eyes meet mine. She knows I’m about to lose my shit.
“Hey, hun, are we all set?” Hailey asks Aiden. I’m not sure what she’s playing at until Allison speaks up.
“Hey, babe, are you up for some ice cream?” she asks me with the sweetest smile on her face. I can see tension in her eyes. It’s obvious these guys said or did something to make them uncomfortable.
The two douche bags actually look offended, like the girls were leading them on. They huff as they get up and make their way to the back of the restaurant. I clench my fists at my sides. I want to punch them, just once is all it would take with those two. I see Hailey grab Aiden’s arm and lead him toward the door. He’s having pretty much the same reaction as I am. I’m seething mad and turn to follow the two goons when I feel soft hands encircle my arm.
“Liam.” That’s all it takes. Her saying my name, like I’m all that matters in her world, and instantly my anger evaporates just as fast as it came on. Her soft voice and soft hands instantly calming me. I cup her face with my free hand and kiss her, just a chaste kiss, but it has to happen. I rest my forehead on hers. “Let’s get that ice cream.” I pull away and lead her out to the car.
We decide to go through the drive-thru at Dairy Queen for ice cream, and then drive to a nearby park to eat it. We all sit around the picnic tables laughing and talking. I’m having so much fun, I don’t want to drop the girls back off at their dorm. Allison, however, is driving home to see her gran tomorrow, so she wants to get an early start. I’m bummed, but I understand. I know how important her gran is to her. We walk the girls to their dorm and remind them to lock the door. I don’t get anymore kisses, but Aiden and I get hugs from both of them. At this point, I’ll take what I can get. I’m starting to wonder if any amount of Allison Hagan will ever be enough.
When we get back to our apartment, I thank Aiden for getting the girls together with us and head to my room to shower. I’m lying on my bed staring at the ceiling, thinking about Allison, of course, when Aiden walks in. “Hey, man,” I greet him.
“Hey, you turning in?” he asks me. Okay, something is up.
“Trying,” I reply honestly. He knows this thing with Allison is tearing me up inside.
“Listen, man, I watched you tonight, you’re different with her. Hell, all week you’ve been different, blowing girls off, not getting together with the guys. I can tell you’re really into her, and, well, I just want you to know if you’re serious, I’m good with it.” He pauses to gauge my reaction. Of course, I’m speechless. “She really is just like my little sister. She’s been through a lot, and I want to protect her,” he shakes his head, “but the way you look at her, I’ve only ever seen that look one other time in my life.”
“Really, and when was that?” I know how I look at her, like she’s the most precious gift on the damn planet. I’ve tasted those lips and been subjected her hugs. No one compares to Allison.
Aiden waits for me to look at him. “My parents. You look at Allison the same way that my parents look at each other. Their love is deep and genuine, I see that when you look at her. Protect her and don’t rush her, man. She deserves that and more.”
I nod my head. “I would give her the world if I could.” There’s no need for me to