"We met at the end of the world, and sat hand in hand as the stars went out."

*************

One week later...

Lilly's POV

If you've ever wondered what would it be like to have slept with one of your professors, I'll tell you; awkward. So damn awkward.

He's like everywhere on campus. I only wonder, how come I never noticed him before?

I leave one class to find him entering it. I run through the lobby to catch one of my courses only to have him leaving his office and almost bumping into him and right into his hard rock abs. See, told ya, awkward, very awkward to know by heart how one of your professors looks like naked.

Not cool, not cool at all.

I've never been so stressed my whole life as I have been through the past week.

I feel like I have to watch each step I take, just so I don't have to come face to face with him again, because every time we cross paths, I either smile politely and nervously to which he returns with a curt nod, pulling on the whole professional act as if he didn't push his thing down my thing in his office just a couple of days ago.

Oh wow, I really need to control my thoughts.

I let out a frustrated breath, totally annoyed at everything as I pushed down the door of the on-campus coffee shop and walked in. My morning class was canceled at the last moment and I have another lecture in two hours, so the best thing to do is get a large cup of coffee to both wake-up and calm my raging brain a bit.

I groaned as I noticed the very long line waiting ahead of me, but my father didn't raise a quitter, so I am not giving up, I am getting my coffee no matter what.

My phone buzzed in my pocket, I pulled it out to see Louis's name flash across the screen. We exchanged numbers when he dropped me off, so I hit the answer button, a bit taken aback by his call at this time of the morning, "Hello," I said.

"Morning little one," He said and I sighed, "Stop calling me that!"

"Well, you are the little one," He said as a matter of fact, "Anyways, we'll be heading to the resort tonight, at like eight pm, is it suitable for you?"

At his words, I facepalmed, I totally forgot that today is Friday and I had already agreed to this, "The place is about a two hours-ish drive away, so instead of going separately, Joe, Stacy and I will go in the same car and Christian can pick you up, cause you two live closer, alright?"

"Is it at all possible for me to back away from this plan?" I asked, silently begging, and feeling hesitant toward the whole situation.

"Nope, not a chance," He said and I let out a fake-cry, "Then, how about I drive there by myself?" How can I handle a two hours drive with him, all alone? No way.

"It would be late, and I am not sure you know the roads very well, it's better if Christian takes you," He added and I heard some other people's voices from beside him, "Okay little one, look, I've got to go now, I'll send your number to Christian, you two fight over this," He said and I facepalmed once again, "Bye," he said and I hung up.

"Great, just great," I sarcastically mumbled under my breath, "Christian can take you," I mockingly added, imitating Louis's voice and the accent, "I gave your number to Christian," I added, "Christian this, Christian that," I continued as I pushed my phone angrily back into my pocket, "Fucking Christian!"

"That's a really terrible accent you've got there," His voice and the hint of amusement in it had me turning around so fast, my eyes growing wide as they fell on no one but Mr. Christian standing right behind me.

He took off his shades, his eyebrow raised playfully and I gulped, "How much of that you heard?" I mumbled, all the anger leaving my body and getting replaced by all types of nervousness and embracement.

A smile pulled up the corner of his lips, "Enough to lighten up my day," His eyes playfully narrowed a bit, "Do you always talk to yourself about me like that?"

The line moved and I took a step forward, deciding to just ignore his question, and isn't he being a bit more friendly, you know considering there are a lot of people around us?

"Louis said you'll pick me up," I mumbled, still looking ahead, knowing he's right behind me, his scent and tall overbearing presence became very hard to ignore now.

"Do I really have to?"

I turned again and my eyebrow raised, as if I am too happy with that fact!

He smiled, "Just kidding," He said, "Be ready at eight," He added, his voice low, just for me to hear, "Also, I am very punctual, so if you make me wait, I'll just leave you and go."

Clenching my jaw, I turned around and looked ahead of me, "Still a jackass," I mumbled under my breath, unable to hold back.

"Tsk tsk, it's not so polite to call your professor that," He commented, very amused.

I clenched my fist, still not daring to look back, "Well, it's not polite for my professor to give me an orgasm either, but we did do that, didn't we?"

He coughed, probably choking on his own saliva and I pressed my eyes shut, wincing at what I just said. Oh fuck, see, with him around my control is wavering. It's dangerous, so very dangerous.

Christian couldn't help but chuckle and when I turned around, I saw those behind him looking at us, trying to figure out what's happening. Christian's head lowered a bit and he rubbed a hand over his mouth, trying to hide his smile and get back his control.

When his eyes fell back on me, he cleared his throat and a tease fluttered all over his mouth as he mumbled, "Where have you been my whole life?"

Before I could say anything or think his words through, one of the workers of the coffee-shop passed by us, and his eyes fell on Christian, "Oh, Mr. Irvine, how are you?"

And just like that, professional Christian was back, "I am fine, thank you," He said before he nodded toward the non-moving line, "What's taking so long?"

"We are a bit low on staff today, sorry for that," The young guy said guiltily, "Come ahead with me, I can prepare your order fast, no need to make you wait for more."

My eyes widened as Christian broke down the line and went ahead, without much of a glance at my side. What the hell? Does he get this VIP-treatment everywhere he goes?

Damn, being hot does have its advantages I guess.

A couple of more minutes passed and still, we didn't move a step ahead. I tried to sneak a look to the beginning of the line but couldn't with how long it is. I groaned, you know what, I give up. I don't need coffee. Nothing can fix this day, nothing!

I left the line and headed toward one of the tables, hoping to find an empty place to sit and finish some of my homework, since apparently, I won't be available to do so this weekend.

On my way there, I saw him get closer with my peripheral vision. When I lifted my eyes up, he paused to a stop right beside me. He had two cups in his hands and he pushed one toward me. My eyebrows pulled closer and my gaze flickered from the cup to him, "You don't know what I want," I stated, raising a very unsatisfied eyebrow.

He shrugged, "I got you the same thing I ordered," He said, pushing it closer toward me, "Just take it, it's not like you have any other option."

With a heavy sigh, I took the cartoon cup from his hand and he handed me a small bag along. Confused, I looked inside to find a blueberry scone. Oh man, I really am hungry. I guiltily looked up; I called him a jackass and he brought me a scone, "You didn't have to," I mumbled with a thankful tone, biting down at my lip.

He gave me a wink, "See you at eight," he said and walked past me before he left the coffee shop.

That jackass can be sweet when he wants to. I shook my head and looked down at the coffee cup in my hand, the words cayenne latte was written over it. I've never had that before so I placed it to my lips and took a sip.

I closed my eyes at the sweet-spicy taste and a satisfying sound made it out of my throat as the caffeine hit the sleeping nerves in my brain. This is so good. I guess I found my favorite drink over here.

Okay, maybe this day is turning to be better than I expected.

I resumed my way but was too busy eyeing my blueberry scone and getting lost in its yummy scent that I came crashing right against someone's side. I gasped and backed away almost immediately, my eyes fell on the person's white t-shirt that now has some of my coffee over it, "Oh my god, I am so sorry!" I said in panic before I placed my things on the nearest table and grabbed some napkins.

"I am so sorry," I said again, my gaze drifting to the guy's face. He looked up from his shirt to me, "It's...it's no problem," he mumbled nervously, his throat bobbed and he immediately circled his way around, almost escaping from me.

I followed him, "Umm just wait," I said, making him pause in his hurried steps, "I am really sorry, the coffee was hot, did I hurt you?" I asked, guiltily.

He turned to face me and shook his head, "No, no, I am fine," He said, the look in his eyes wasn't of anger due to my action, it was more like...panic.

My eyebrows pulled closer, "Did we take a class together before?" I couldn't help but ask, "You just look so familiar," Like I've seen him before but I just can't remember when or where.

He shook his head almost immediately, slowly taking steps backward, "I am not sure, don't think so."

He was about to turn around again, "Are you from the business department?" I asked, curiously.

He looked back at me and his throat bobbed again, "Uhh...yeah, yeah I am," he nodded, his whole being vibrating with a weird sense of nervousness. I almost smiled, he's probably just so nervous talking with a girl, he looks like he's not very good at these social situations.

I didn't want to make him uncomfortable, so I took a small step forward and a friendly smile came to my face as I extended my hand, "I am Lilly," I said.

His eyes drifted to my hand but he didn't shake it. His hand on the side curled into a fist and just as I was about to back away, he hesitantly moved his hand forward, and he placed it in mine, his dark brown eyes lifted to mine, he swallowed hard and said, "Noah."

My smile widened, "Nice to meet you, Noah," I nodded toward his shirt, "I am really sorry about that."

He immediately retreated his hand back, "It's okay, it's just...just a shirt." With that, he turned around and walked away, ending our conversation there.

I let out a sigh before I found a near place to sit down. I pulled the laptop from my bag and checked for my to-do-list. I rushed a hand over my face. It's already the first week and I have three homework due next week. So unfair.

I sipped on my delicious coffee and devoured my scone as I went on solving my first homework. Half an hour later and I was bored again. I lifted my gaze and looked around the coffee shop, hoping to find one familiar face I can sit with but found none. Sucks that Sally doesn't have classes today.

On the other side of the shop, my eyes fell on Noah, sitting all alone and reading a book. Determined, I shut down my laptop and gathered my things. Noticing that the line has cleared out by now, I ordered one cup of coffee before I made my way toward him.

I placed the cup in front of him and his confused eyes went from it then up to me, "It's my way to say sorry," I said before I placed my bag on the near chair and took a seat across from him, "Uh, I really don't like sitting by myself," I explained, "And you're also sitting alone, so, I hope it's okay if I join you?" I politely added, somehow trying to make a new friend.

He nodded, "It's okay," he mumbled, placing his book down and he straightened himself in his seat.

I rested my elbows over the table and placed my hands in my palms, "So, are you also a third-year student?" He looked a bit older, but it's maybe just his physique. He's taller than me, not as tall as Christian though, and his body is built in a really good way. I could totally see the tanned skin of his muscles from underneath that shirt. Wow, someone works out.

His dark-brown hair is too short for my liking, but he really has a handsome face. Just not my type.

Sally was right, I really have a thing for blue-eyes only. Ugh. One person to blame for that.

"Umm yeah," He answered, a bit hesitant.

I had already established the fact he is an introvert, but I can't hold back from talking and asking more.

"You're not from here, right?" I asked, hinting toward the lack of the British accent.

He shook his head, "No."

"Where are you from?" I asked and he hesitated again, "I hope I am not making you uncomfortable or anything," I said with a small smile, "Sometimes, I just can't hold myself from talking too much."

"You are not making me uncomfortable," he said, "I am just not," His eyebrows pulled closer, "I am just not used to this."

I smiled and nodded, "Guessed so," I said, "But I am a really friendly person, so I am gonna make you warm up to me one way or another."

He anxiously shifted in his seat again and nodded, "I am pretty sure you will."

***************

"Call me when you get there," Sally insisted as she paced around my bedroom, "You know what, just text me every hour, so I can make sure you're still alive."

I rolled my eyes at her dramatic reaction, "Keep your location turned on also, so I can keep checking just in case I can't reach you."

"Oh my god," I pressed my palm over my forehead, "And I thought my dad was overprotective," I mumbled, "Stop being so dramatic, it's a just two-day vacation, that's all."

She crossed her arms over her chest, "Vacation?" Her eyes narrowed at me and she sarcastically remarked, "Why? Are you so tired after just one week of the new semester?"

"Sally, did my parents assign you to watch over me or something?" My eyebrow raised, addressing her over-reacting state.

She shook her head, "No, but you're going all alone, with a guy you met only one week ago, and let's just not ignore the fact that he is our damn professor!"

I sighed, "It's not like anything is gonna happen!" I shot out, "I just wanna have some fun, nothing more."

"Yeah, as if I believe that nothing is gonna happen!"

"Well, even if something were to happen, what's the big deal?" Her reaction toward this got me a bit angry and I got up to my feet, "Weren't you the one who told me I should move on?" My eyebrow raised, "What changed now?"

"Of course I want you to move on but not like this," Her voice lowered and she shook her head, "Moving on meant meeting a guy, getting to know him, then starting to date him, not immediately go sleep with him and then the next day you're going on a vacation with him and his friends!" She shook her head, "This is not moving on, you're rushing into something you don't know, you're being reckless, Lilly."

"Oh really, isn't that exactly what you did last year?" I asked and took a step forward, "Sally, what happened between you and Conner last summer?" Her whole expression changed at my question and she shook her head, "I don't know what you're talking about."

I scoffed, "No, you do." I said, "Something happened, but you never told me, and when we were back, you were different, I noticed that," I added, "And yes, I was worried so much and I kept an eye on you all the time just to make sure you were okay but I let you act out without being like this, without making you feel guilty, like what you're doing now to me," I pointed at her, "Because I understand how the pain sometimes makes you feel like you need to act out, to be reckless and just...let go."

"I didn't stop you, but I made sure you were always careful," I added.

Her gaze drifted to the ground, "I just..." She pulled into a deep breath and looked up at me, "I just don't want you to get hurt again, that's all."

She shook her head and walked away, leaving me alone and I slumped down on the bed. I placed my head in my hands and let out a loud frustrated sigh. Sally and I rarely fight, like actual fights.

The guilt pressed against my chest at the thought that my words had hurt her. I groaned and looked down at my chest, "I hate you," I said to my heart, that can't hurt anyone and sometimes care more than it's supposed to.

I got up and checked if Sally is in her room. She was sitting on her bed, her eyes sadly cast down, and my chest clenched so tight. Without thinking, I rushed to her side and my arms wrapped around her, "I am sorry," I mumbled.

She shook her head in my embrace, "I've been acting like such a hen mother, you're right, I am sorry."

I chuckled and pulled away, "Look, I get it, I am acting out, I am fully aware of that, and to be honest, I kind of want to be reckless again," I explained, "And Christian, well, he makes me feel something I haven't felt in so long," He makes me feel the excitement I've missed, "And I am not rushing into this, I am not gonna go and fall in love with him, I just...I just want to let go for a while and be happy."

She nodded, "I understand, just promise you'll always be careful," She said and I nodded, "If he breaks your heart, I am gonna break his handsome beautiful face."

I chuckled, "Don't worry, I won't let him do that."

She smiled back, "Okay, then go and have sex with our professor, you little minx."

I wiggled my eyebrows at her and she playfully pushed at my arm.

"Sally," I said and she gave me her full attention again, "Will you ever tell me what happened?"

Her smile slowly dropped and she nodded her head, "I will, but not now, later, okay?"

I nodded, satisfied, "Okay."

Before I could talk more, I heard my phone ringing from the other room, "That's professor hottie, isn't it?" She asked and I checked my watch to see it exactly eight pm. He really wasn't kidding about being punctual.

I rushed to my room and picked my phone up. An unsaved number flashed through the screen, knowing for sure it's Christian, I answered, "Hello?"

"Hey, I am downstairs," He said, "Are you ready or should I leave?"

I shot him a glare through the screen, "I am coming down," I mumbled with an annoyed tone and hung up.

I immediately took my small bag and Sally gave me a quick hug, insisted I be careful before I went downstairs.

Christian was leaning against his car and at my footsteps, his eyes lifted up and fell on me. He straightened up and once I was close enough, his hand shot out to my wrist, pulling me closer. My eyes widened a bit at how close we got, I thought he was gonna kiss me or something but he just took the bag from my hand.

A teasing smile lifted his lips, totally reading my thoughts, "Hey," he said, ever so casually.

"Hey," I said, gulping down.

From his hold over my wrist, he lifted my hand up and looked at my watch, "You're two minutes late."

I rolled my eyes at him, "Are you gonna be like this the whole ride?"

He chuckled and shook his head before he let go of my hand and opened the door for me, "M'lady," He said casually and I shot him another glare before I got inside.

He placed my bag in the trunk and got into the driving seat. He took off and I realized it's too late to back away from my decision now, so I sucked into a deep breath, trying to calm myself down and hoping to just let go.

Whatever happens in these two days, I am going to enjoy it. I have to.

"So, how is your semester going so far?" Christian asked, opening a conversation.

I shook my head, "Let's not talk about school," I winced, "It just reminds me that you're my professor and I am in your car right now, and it's just all so very complicated."

He chuckled and nodded, "As you like," He said and I fidgeted in my seat, trying my best to keep my eyesight either ahead of me on the road or at the window by my side.

He came to a stop at the red light and I felt his hand resting over mine, grabbing my attention to him. His eyebrow raised, "What did I say before?" He asked and I stared at him, confused.

He squeezed my hand in his in a soothing matter, "Just relax," He gave one of his signatures smiles, "And let go," He added, "If you wanna have fun this weekend, I am gonna need the Lilly I met last week," His smile slowly went away and he looked straight into my eyes, he nodded his head forward, "That Lilly," He addressed the wildness he said I have in my eyes, "Why do you keep suppressing her down?"

The red light changed into green and he resumed driving, for some reason his hand stayed on top of mine, "Because last time I let her get lost, she got hurt."

He looked at me, trying to make sense of my words and he shook his head, "I won't let her get hurt this time."

"Weren't you the one who told me we need to have some control, so this can't repeat again?"

He nodded, "Of course, but by control, I meant toward us, not toward every single thing in your life," He said, and it did make sense somehow, "Look, yeah, we had sex, then you turned out to be my student," He sighed, "But we got in terms with that now, and to be honest, I like spending time with you," He looked at me and his eyebrow raised, "You're kind of fun to have around."

I nodded, totally aware of that and I said, "Likewise."

He smiled, "Yeah, I know, I am a delight too."

I shook my head at his cockiness but smiled anyway. He retreated his hand back and added, "Just saying, regardless of what happened in the past, don't stop yourself from having fun, that's all."

That's the part that I think I like about him, that pulls me in. He wants me to just be me, with no restraints.

"Maybe this wasn't such a bad idea," I said.

Christian nodded, "Exactly."

For the next hour, we just talked about random things and the awkwardness totally faded away. I was again comfortable with being with him, all alone, in a very small confined place.

Louis called to check if we're on track and we realized that they're a few miles ahead of us, not more. After a couple of minutes of silence, one thing kept roaming up in my head, words that Louis said last time, "I really like how close you are with Louis and Joe," I said, trying to be subtle.

He nodded, "Well, they're my family."

"Louis told me you all kind of grew up together," I said, treading carefully, "In the same orphanage."

He nodded again, "Yeah, we did."

I don't know why but I expected more of a reaction toward this. Anger maybe, that I am trespassing a limit, or a little bit of nervousness that I know something private about him, but...there was none of that.

Christian turned to me, his eyebrows pulling closer observing my confusion, "What?" He asked.

"I know I am being a bit rude, but I kind of expected a bigger reaction from you."

He looked even more confused, "What type of reaction?"

"I really don't know," I mumbled.

He gave me a knowing look, "Yes, Lilly, I didn't grow up in the greatest conditions, I didn't live a luxurious life with a big mansion or fancy cars, I didn't attend ivy league schools, but I am not ashamed of that," I immediately shook my head, "That's not what I meant."

He nodded, "I know," He said, casually addressing the subject, "Look, I lost my parents at a young age, I grew up in an orphanage, and to be honest, I am proud of what I accomplished all on my own," He added, "I worked hard to reach here, to this moment in my life, I mean I raised myself and I made a man out of myself...all just by myself, and it's not something I would want to hide, it's something that I am okay with."

He looked at me, "That's why I wouldn't overreact to you knowing about this," He said, "It's part of my life and it's what made me who I am."

A small smile lifted my lips and I nodded, "You should be proud," I shook my head, "Because I don't think I'd ever be able to do that."

He returned my smile and nodded, "And I hope you'll never have to."

I really hope so. Not having my parents by my side, having to grow up without them, I would've never been able to go through that, I'll never be able to.

The thought alone brings a sore taste to my throat. I guess I am one of the lucky ones to have had my family there for me all the time. It's so sad, how sometimes we take things for granted in this life.

"You know," I started, my tone taking a playful turn, "You're really much more than a playboy and a nerd, huh?"

He chuckled lowly and his eyebrow raised, "I guess I am gonna leave that for you to figure out."

I will. I will definitely figure you all out, Mr. Christian.

**************

Remember when I said that I will be the one in control, that I will try to keep myself at a safe distance from Christian.

Yeah, that ain't happening.

"So, I took the liberty to book our rooms beforehand," Louis said once we arrived at the resort.

He handed a key-card to Joe, "You and Stacy in the same room of course," He placed another card in his pocket, "One only for me, you know in case I pick up a girl," He winked at us, "Considering it's my birthday and all."

He handed the last card to Christian, "And one for you and Lilly."

"Uh wait, hold on, hold on," I interjected, "I was under the impression that I will be staying alone," I stressed out, "Like in a totally separate room with a couple of floors away from his."

Louis's eyebrows pulled together and he looked between the four of us, "Okay, are we gonna pretend that I didn't see you two kissing at the club and then leaving alone," He said ever so casually, "I mean, you saw each other naked, so there is no problem in staying in the same room."

Fifty percent control left.

"Also, Christian's room is the one with the hot tub," Louis added, "You won't be getting out of it, believe me."

Fourty percent control left.

Help.

Someone send help.

They all scattered toward their rooms and I followed Christian, who was oddly quiet toward all of this. He could have objected, but he didn't. So, let him pay the consequences.

He unlocked the door and allowed me to get in first, I stepped inside and turned the lights on. My eyes wandered around, taking into the room's decor. It wasn't that big of a space as the suites my parents and I used to stay at, but it wasn't small either. And, the most impressive part was the hot tub, it was positioned on the end of the room, surrounded by high glass walls looking down to the sea.

The dark sky illuminated with stars and below it, the sea pushed back and forth in rhythmic waves. There was something absolutely serene in the view of this room.

"This is really nice," I commented before I turned around to look at Christian.

His eyes were already on me and he nodded, "It is," A small smile curved his lips, "I always choose this room when we come here."

"You guys come here a lot?"

He nodded, "At least once a year," He said.

"I don't know about you but I am so getting in that tub now," I headed toward the bathroom, "I am gonna wash up and dive right in."

He nodded with a smile, "Me too."

Ten percent control left.

Now, being the wise girl I am, I have a nice pair of underwear and a bra underneath because I was totally aware of the fact that I am gonna lose my control at some point.

I stared at my reflection in the mirror and the logical part of me asked if it's even worth it. The other part stressed out that I've had already broken my promise, so what's the point?

I just really miss him.

I've always felt so away from him over the past years, but now when I am with Christian, it feels I am further and further away.

I pulled up my phone and opened my Instagram, thinking that maybe if I can see how he's living, see if he had moved on, if he's happy, then maybe I can feel less guilty about all of this, or maybe if I see his face after so long, I'll break down, call him and leave here right now.

The first post that showed up on my feed was a new picture Conner has uploaded of himself, wearing a pilot's cap, and the caption said 'It suits me better', and beside it he had mentioned Chase. My finger hovered over his name, ready to press but I hesitated.

Something about this moment, being here, with Christian just outside, and with Chase continents away, it felt like I should be making a decision.

I've been treating Christian as a one-night stand, or more like a fling, that I haven't stopped to consider if I continued this, would he become something more? Could he become more?

I know it's way too early to think about this, but for me to make a decision, I need to weigh in all the possibilities.

I never thought I'd be attracted to anyone but Chase, but here I am getting pulled toward Christian like a moth to a flame.

I never thought I could love anyone but Chase; so, could that mean there is a chance for me to...love Christian, one day?

Where would that leave me?

In less than two years, I will graduate. I will go back home, or do I even want to go back?

Too many questions, too many answers, it all clouded my senses and I scoffed. My eyes fell on where his name is written and I shook my head and talked with myself, as if talking with him, "See, this is what you do to me, you make me over-think everything," I shook my head, "I don't understand how, but you still have me under your control."

I locked up my phone and placed it away. I looked up at myself in the mirror, "I am sorry, Chase," I made my decision, "I am going to move on."

And it was at this exact moment that I let go.

I walked out of the bathroom, with zero control left.

I just hope that I wouldn't regret this one day.

Christian wasn't in the room, so I took off my clothes, and leaving only my undergarments on, I went inside the hot tub. Shivers rolled through my whole being at the first sensation before I sat down and my body slowly adjusted to the change in temperature.

I closed my eyes and laid my head back, the hot water was such a mood elevator; it lifted up my spirit, enhanced all of my senses, and left me feeling very refreshed.

When the door opened, I didn't want to open my eyes, but his footsteps got closer and when my eyelids glided open, they fell on him. He showed me the bottle of wine and the two glasses, "Got us something," He said.

"Don't they say don't combine alcohol and hot tubs?" I asked, my eyebrow raising.

"Yeah, but we're not gonna get drunk," He said as he poured us some, "Just a glass."

He handed me one, and placed his on the smooth surface beside the hot tub. Without introductions, his hands curled over the material of his shirt and he pulled it up, while I casually sipped on my wine and shamelessly eyed the show.

He threw the shirt toward the bed and I bit down on my lip when I remembered how I ran my hand through his chest and all the way...down. It took him seconds only to join me in the tub. He took his place on the other corner, sticking to his words and keeping his space.

He took into a deep breath and said, "I really needed this."

When he opened his eyes, they fell on me before they slid a bit down my body, "I can't help but notice that you're wearing a bra this time," He said, and his eyebrow raised.

I chuckled and placed my wine glass away, "Well, if it bothers you, I can take it off."

The tease in my voice reflected off his eyes and he chuckled, a low throaty one.

His head tilted to the side, his eyes giving me that look, the one that tells me he is studying me, trying to understand me, "There is something different about you now," He observed.

"Well, besides the fact that I am half-naked," I said, leaving my place and inching closer to his side, "Someone said I should let go," I took the spot right by his side, but I didn't look at him yet.

I rested my arms over the tub's edge and focused my gaze outside the glass windows and onto the sea, "So, I decided to let go."

"He sounds like a very wise person," Christian commented.

I turned him and shrugged, "Well yeah, but there is something about him," I said.

He took a sip of his wine and licked his lips before he asked, "What?"

"You see, he pretends like he knows me so well," I said, shaking my head, "But, he doesn't."

"Then, give him the chance to know you."

I nodded, "I am."

He looked down at the water and smiled, "Cool."

"So, how many girls have been in this tub with you before?" I asked, just curious.

"Do you want the truth?"

I nodded, "Yes."

He shook his head, "No one."

My eyes narrowed at him, "Oh yeah, Mr. slutty professor hasn't brought a girl here yet," I remarked suspiciously, "Feels a bit hard to believe."

"Mr. slutty professor?" He asked, raising an amused eyebrow, "Why thank you."

He shook his head, "When I usually come here, I come just to relax and have fun with my friends, so no, I have never brought a girl here before, whether I was in a relationship or not," He said, "I come here to just escape."

"But, I am here this time," I stated, "You may not be able to escape that far."

He nodded without hesitation, "Maybe that's what I want."

His words had me pausing for a second, my eyes didn't break contact with his, focused on the scenery playing ahead of me, "There is something really beautiful about this," I commented moving toward him, "You, the sky and the sea right behind you," I was crowding him now, again at dangerously close proximity, "It's almost like I don't wanna forget this image."

He blinked and said, "Click," My eyebrow raised, "What?" I asked.

His smile was breathtaking, "I don't wanna forget this image either," He said, "So, I took a mental screenshot."

I chuckled and bit down at my lower lip, and his eyes flickered from my eyes to there. His warm hand came up and rested under my chin, he ran his thumb over my lower lip and I sucked into a breath at the sensation, "Those lips are all I can think about since Monday," He mumbled.

His words only pulled me closer and gave me the permission I needed, my hands were on the tub's rails just behind him, they moved to his shoulders, steadying myself as a few millimeters separated our lips. I didn't over-think, I didn't hesitate as I pressed them to the heavens of his.

His arms went around my body, pulling me against him, that I was sitting in his lap. My mind exploded with the sensation of his mouth and skin all pressed to mine. The warm water surrounding us only enhanced the situation, adding more pleasure as his hands ran over the skin off my back, roaming and exploring.

I wounded my arms around his neck and I let go of everything. His tongue slow-danced with mine and I melted into the satisfaction coursing through every part of me.

"What's it about you that I can't get enough?" He mumbled into my lips.

I bit his lower lip and he groaned, "Those fucking lips," He deepened his kiss, brutally taking my mouth in his, "This soft skin," He added, his grip tightening over the bare skin of my waist.

His other hand grabbed my chin, he looked into my eyes and on a pained hiss, he said, "Fucking hell, I need you, Lilly."

At the moment, I was wetter on the inside than on the outside.

Lilly, concentrate!

I sucked into a deep breath and nodded, "Me too," I mumbled as my hands reached the side of his boxers, freeing him of them.

He immediately took control after, his hand landed on my hips, moving around so that he was behind me. He took both of my hands and placed them on the rails, his chest pressing against my back as he nibbled at my neck, at the spot that drives me mad.

He took me, skin to skin, breath to breath, up against the sea and the dark sky.

This time, I felt no regret and nothing held me back.

To be honest, I was excited.

Really excited about what tomorrow holds.

**************

I am in heaven. Actual heaven. This place is amazing. I should bring Sally here. The guys were right by their frequent visits; It's all about relaxing, having fun, and letting go.

The weather helped too. Fall was starting and summer is leaving but they picked up a good time, Louis said it's his birthday's effect that magically made the weather hot enough for a resort.

Now, back to the main reason that I am in heaven.

Christian, without a shirt, with shorts only and playing volleyball. Yeah, never thought heaven could look so damn hot.

I sat down by Louis's side, who was the only one not playing. I sipped on my Mai Tai as I watched the muscles of Christians' arms flex as he pushed at the ball, "Oh wow," I couldn't stop my mouth from expressing his amazement.

Louis chuckled, "Are you ogling at my friend?"

I turned to him, "Well, do you blame me?" I asked, pointing at him.

He laughed, "True, I am a guy and totally straight, but my friend is a sight to look at," He said with a shrug, "I know how to pick them, huh."

I shook my head and looked back at Christian, I could literally watch him play like that all day long.

Louis straightened himself in his seat, "So, you and Christian, is it a thing now?"

My eyebrow raised, "Why don't you ask your friend?"

He scoffed, "We guys don't talk about such things between us."

"Not at all?"

He shrugged, "Like, if it's mentioned," He tried to explain, "I mean Christian won't come out of nowhere and tell me yo mate I am sleeping with Lilly or whatever."

"Wow, we girls share everything."

His eyes narrowed, "Everything?"

I nodded, "Yeah, size, shape," I explained and he burst laughing when I added, "Duration."

"Well, I've got nothing to worry about in that area," He said, way too proud. I almost rolled my eyes, guys love their dicks way too much.

"Then, how did you know that we slept together before?" I asked.

He shrugged, "You were kissing and then left the club together, of course you didn't go to the church and pray to Jesus after."

I shot him a glare, my eyes going back to Christian, "I don't know, it's just...there is something odd about him."

"Odd like what?" Louis asked.

"It's like he knows me," I answered, "But he only met me a few days ago."

Louis shrugged, "Christian is just a thoughtful person and probably the smartest among us," He said looking at me, "Maybe he was just able to read you very well, and I see that as a very good sign."

"Maybe."

The rest of the day passed with us playing and swimming. Stacy and I spent two very relaxing hours at the spa, which assured me I made no mistake whatsoever by coming here.

After that, I asked Christian what possible gift I could get for Louis considering the birthday party we'll be throwing at night.

After figuring out Louis's likes and dislikes, Christian drove me to the near shops and I picked him up a small gift. When we were back, the party was already starting. I immediately changed into a little blue summer dress I've packed with me and joined Christian and the others.

Time passed fast and in the end we sang happy birthday and blew the candles.

I handed Louis the small box and waited for his reaction. Christian told me Louis likes collecting different types of knives, which in my opinion is a weird habit, but who am I to judge. So, we picked up a small cute one. I can't believe I just called a knife cute. Anyway, It had a black matte handle, and I asked the man at the shop to write Louis's name at the end in cursive and silver.

Louis gasped, "Oh my god, I am so adding this to my collection," he looked up at us, "This is so thoughtful," He said and pointed at me, "You, I like you a lot," Then, he pointed at Christian, "You, thank you for bringing her into our lives," I chuckled at his words and felt myself being pulled into a tight hug.

Music started playing and Louis pulled away, he raised an eyebrow and bowed down, "Will you dance with me?" He asked and I nodded with low giggle at his gesture.

He instantly took my hand in his and pulled me along.

Not so long after, everyone else joined us. Other people who didn't know us started dancing as well. Louis's moves were so funny, I couldn't help but laugh, "You really don't know how to dance, do you?"

He shook his head, "Nope, but this makes me feel like a kid again, so let me have this moment!"

Not long after, Christian approached us and all I felt were his hands on my waist, turning me around and pulling me to him.

"Hey!" Louis shot out.

"It's my turn," Christian said, looking down at me.

The music changed into a slow one and his eyebrow raised, "Wow, I came right on time," His grip around me tightened and he pulled me even closer. I tried to hide my smile but couldn't, I placed my arms around his neck and we swayed to the music.

"I don't want this to finish," I said, referring to this place.

I pulled into a breath of this fresh air, "I feel like on Monday you'll be back to be just my professor and all the awkwardness will come back again," I shook my head, "I don't want that."

"How about we don't let it be like that?" He asked.

"What do you mean?"

"I've been thinking about this," He said, "I mean if we are careful enough within the universities boundaries, we're okay to go," He explained and excitement danced all over my chest, "We can still meet up after, we can hang out, you and me, all of us, I mean they really love you," He added, pointing at his friends, "And, I would love to know you more."

I nodded, "I think I like that."

"Cool," he said before he inched his face closer, his forehead pressed against mine, and as we swayed to the music, his lips pressed over mine in the sweetest kiss.

It was a moment to remember, we danced under the moon, on the beach, our feet moving on the sand as soft music blared all around us, the sky and the sea surrounded us from every corner and I felt free.

I felt liberated.

Actually, I felt something I haven't felt in so long, I felt happiness.

I was happy.

************************************

Do you think Lilly would actually fall in love with Christian if this went on?

Btw, I know you all want Chase's POV at the moment, but don't worry, you will have it when the right time comes *wink*

Random question, who is your favorite character in this book, besides Alex of course xD
Lilly gets hate for being immature and Chase also gets it for giving up so fast. So, I only wonder, even if it's from the side characters, who is your favorite?

Love ya all!