Semi-Edited!

Song above is...Inner Demons by Julia Brennan (I thought it fit Riley pretty well!)

Thank you for this beautiful cover!! I love it! (I always welcome covers so if you ever want to make one let me know! I will post it here and Insta/Twitter!)

Happy Reading!!

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Flashback....

The loud music seemed to rattle my head, making my headache grow even more. My feet were killing me from standing here for the past hour and a half. And don't even get me started on how hot it was inside this house. With well over a hundred people here it made the house almost unbearable.

I really just wanted to go home but Mitch was my ride home. Speaking of Mitch, where was here? We've been here over an hour and I only saw him once since getting here. This is the third party in the last few weeks that Mitch has done this to me.

I hadn't even wanted to come tonight yet he convinced me to and he isn't even around. I wasn't sure but these last few weeks Mitch has been acting...off. He wasn't as sweet as he use to be. He didn't try to take me out on dates or make cute little gestures.

Now it was all about going to parties or downing my for what I was wearing or eating. I wasn't sure what was up with him but it was starting to annoy me. If he didn't want me around he could just flat out tell me. Or if he didn't want to be together anymore, fine. The thought of not being with him though made a pit in my stomach open.

Despite these last few weeks Mitch has been a great boyfriend. He was always so sweet and kind. Always picking me up for school, waiting for me by my locker, and even letting me wear his jersey during football games.

Mitch was the first guy to ever notice me. He made me feel special and like I was the only girl he wanted. But lately it was like he could care less about me and I wasn't sure what to make of it.

With a sigh I drank the rest of my Coke. I wasn't going to stand around here all night and wait for Mitch, I was ready to go home. Weaving through the sweaty bodies I grabbed my phone, ready to send Mitch a text about me going home.

I didn't make it too far through the crowd when I felt a hand smack my ass, hard. Yelping I turned around to find Bret standing there, an unnerving smirk on his face. Bret was one of Mitch's best friends but every time we hung out with him, he gave me the creeps.

"What the hell Bret!" I yelled over the music.

"What I didn't do anything." He put his hands up, acting innocent but the smirk on his face told me otherwise.

"You know what you did." I hissed. I could tell the people around us were now paying attention. Of course they would, anything that happens with the Big Four immediately gains attention. "Don't ever touched me again Bret." I spat. The look on his face was pissing me off even more but I knew better than to play into his game.

"You weren't saying that last night." He spoke loudly, causing more people to turn towards us. My cheeks heated up as my anger flared. If he kept saying things like that people will start to believe them!

"Don't worry Riley we can meet up again tonight." Bret even had the nerve to wink at me. The wink sent me off the edge. Just as I opened my mouth to yell back at him a tight grip on my wrist stopped me. Glancing to my right I saw a very angry Mitch standing there.

The look on his face made my heart stop in my chest. I've seen the same long on his face a lot recently and knew it was never a good sign.

"You are making a scene." He hissed lowly in my ear.

"But he-" I tried to explain but the tightening of his hand made me stop.

"I don't care. You are embarrassing me." At Mitch's tone I bowed my head and dropped my gaze to the floor. I didn't need to look up to know Mitch was giving everyone around us his mega-watt smile. The same smile that made everyone love him.

With my stomach now in my throat I kept my head down as Mitch dragged me out of the crowd. He was definitely not happy with me.

End of Flashback....

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

My head jerked up at the sudden memory. I blinked hazily as I looked around. For a split second I felt my heart stop when I didn't recognize where I was at, until I noticed the familiar room. I was at Olivia's.

Trying to calm my racing heart I rubbed the sleep from my eyes. I was pretty sure what happened last night caused the sudden memory. Thinking back on Mitch I should have seen the signs. That memory is just one of a few that should have opened my eyes to what Mitch was really like.

Not wanting to think of Mitch right now I pushed the blankets off me and sat up. After getting back home late last night Olivia suggested I stay over. Going home to an empty house after what happened didn't sound like fun, so after a few words I was agreeing.

Because we got back so late Olivia, Lexi and I only stayed up for another hour talking before going to sleep. I was very surprised Lexi agreed to sleeping over as well but I was glad she did. With them here I felt better; even though I couldn't sleep.

One of the main reasons I couldn't sleep was Alex. His face was constantly front and center in my mind. As soon as everything settled down my mind decided it was time to over analyzed everything that happened at the club.

What seemed to stick out was 'Aren't you happy to see an old friend?', and 'Always one start a fight'. It was clear that Marcus and Alex knew each other but I wasn't sure how. I've never seen him before so I was pretty sure he wasn't from Astoria, but then again he looked slightly older than us.

But the way he talked to Alex was like they didn't have a good past. And add in how he spoke about Harper. Just thinking of the way he said her name made my blood boil. Harper was too young and innocent to have anyone say anything about her. I definitely didn't regret what I did.

"Hey, you're up!" A friendly voice spoke, drawing my attention to the open door. IN walked Olivia with a bright grin. A quick peek at the clock to my side I saw it was 9 o'clock, which meant I only got about two hours of sleep.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to over sleep."

"You are good. We just got up anyways." Olivia waved me off, going over and sitting on the edge of her bed. She was still dressed in her PJ's, which made me grin. Her bright blue duck PJ's were so her. I was also in a pair of her PJ bottoms, and a t-shirt I was pretty sure was Dereks, since I brought nothing with me for a sleep over.

I had absolutely no plans of sleeping over here but I was glad I did. While it wasn't like a regular sleepover since we went clubbing and then fell asleep soon after we got here. But I was glad I didn't go home to an empty house last night.

"Thank you for letting me stay over Liv."

"Of course. You are welcome here any time." She grinned widely at me. "How's the hand?" Bringing my hand up I winced, it looked horrible. It was still swollen and was now bruised. Who knew punching someone could cause so much damage.

"Here let me see it." Liv slid of the bed and got on her knees in front of me. With gentle hands she grabbed my hand, moving my hand around as she looked at it. "With everything going on last night I didn't get a chance to look at it and make sure you didn't break anything."

I hissed a few times as she pressed on my swollen knuckles. I had almost forgotten Liv was studying to be a doctor.

"You didn't break your knuckles which is good. I'm pretty sure Alex knew that though." She muttered the last part. "Unfortunately your knuckles will be swollen and bruised for a while. Probably want to keep putting ice on it and take some Advil for the pain."

I tried to fight off the grin at her serious, and professional tone.

"Wait." Liv moved to my wrist where the bruise Mitch gave me. It was a deep purple now and matched my knuckles. "Did this happen last night too?" I wasn't sure what to say. Do I say yes but if I say no she'll wonder where I got it and I wasn't planning on telling anyone.

"Are you guys hungry? I'm starving." Lexi interrupted us as she walked into the room. I silently thanked her for walking in when she did. I wasn't in the mood to talk about Mitch.

It was almost as if Lexi's words came to life, because as soon as she said that the smell of maple syrup came into the room.

"Mmm what is that?" I asked, my stomach suddenly growling. I haven't eaten anything since yesterday and just the idea of food had me starving.

"I'm ahead of you Lexi. My dad is making us breakfast." Liv grinned. "Come on." Gesturing for us to follow her, she got up and headed out the bedroom door. I scrambled after her eager to eat something; Lexi right on my heels.

"Good morning ladies." A voice greeted us as we walked into the kitchen. My eyes immediately went a surprisingly tall man moving around the kitchen. When Liv's dad looked up at us my eyes widened. He was actually very attractive. Her dad didn't look a day over 30.

It was clear Olivia got her looks from her mom though. Her dad had light brown hair and brown eyes, whereas Liv had blonde hair and blue eyes. But you could tell where Liv got her good looks from that is for sure.

It was kind of awkward seeing how hot her father was. A nudge at my side drew my attention away from him. To my left Lexi nudged me again but the look she sent me I knew I wasn't the only one who thought it.

"Come have some pancakes, girls." Keeping my head down I took a seat at the bar in the middle of Liv and Lexi. "Who's your new friend Livvy?" At the mention of me I looked up to find Liv's dad smiling at me.

"Dad this is Riley. Riley this is my dad, William."

"Nice to meet you Riley." William smiled at me and sent me a nod.

"Nice to meet you too." I smiled back shyly.

"I heard you girl up there talking late last night. Did you have fun?" He asked, moving around the kitchen, grabbing bacon from the oven.

"Yeah we did." Liv sent me a smile of her own as she answered her dad's question. Everything smelt so good that my stomach growled loudly that everyone heard.

"How many pancakes would you like Riley?" William asked, chuckling.

"Two please." I spoke softly, my face bright red no doubt. It wasn't like I was trying to impress Olivia's dad but anytime I was near an attractive guy I became a total klutz. When he slid a plate over to me with two pancakes and three pieces of bacon I felt my mouth water.

Wow, kicking the crap out of someone really takes it out of you.

While Liv's dad served her and Lexi I dug into my pancakes. Gripping the fork hurt my knuckles but my hunger outweighed the pain. I probably looked like a pig as I stuffed my face. Just as I shoved a huge piece into my mouth I heard the sound of a door opening followed by a loud 'hello'.

At that voice I froze.

"In here." Liv called out. In a matter of seconds the kitchen was filled with four tall guys. I sat there silently with my mouth completely full as Alex, Noah, Derek and Nico came in talking loudly.

"Whats up Mr. D." Derek greeted Liv's dad. He made himself at home by sliding into the empty seat next to Liv and grabbing a piece of bacon off her plate.

Nico went straight to Lexi, the hard look on his face softening as he gazed at his girlfriend. Even though Lexi was makeup-less and wearing PJ's he still looked at her like she was world. The sight of it made my chest ache.

I watched as Noah went over to William who patted him on the back. The two talked for a second before William was handing Noah a plate of food. When Noah moved towards the table behind us did my gaze finally land on Alex.

He was already looking at me when our eyes met. An amused grin was on his face as he stared. I went to smile but the mouthful of pancake stopped me. Flushing red once more I ducked my head down and quickly chewed. Great, Alex just saw me stuffing my mouth.

"What made you boys come over?" William asked, leaning against the counter sipping his coffee. William was definitely not how I pictured Liv's dad to be. From what she told me I was thinking of a short guy that wore glasses, and looked kind of older; but William was far from that.

Instead he had brown hair that was short, a beard that was trimmed neatly on his well defined face. His brown eyes were livingly as he looked at each of us. And add in the slightly muscular shoulders that you could see through his shirt.

"You know we have crushes on you Mr. D." Derek teased, through a mouthful of food.

"Plus for an Architect you sure can cook." Noah spoke up just as he shoved a full piece of bacon in his mouth. Liv's dad just shook his head at the two boys.

"Well you kids finish up the food. I need to finalize some things at the office today."

A chorus of 'byes' echoed through the kitchen as William said bye to his daughter before leaving. I found it surprising how they acted with Liv's dad. This group of friends always caught me by surprise.

"How was the sleepover?" Noah asked, breaking me out of my thoughts.

"Yeah, did you girls have pillow fights in your underwear?" Derek added, wiggling his eyebrows.

"Oh yeah cause that's what we always do." Lexi snorted, rolling her eyes.

"Wait you don't have pillow fights in your underwear?" The way Derek said it was like he honestly believed that is what girls do at sleepovers.

Looking around at everyone we were all silent. Almost like we were trying who would burst his bubble. I definitely didn't want to be the one to break it to him. I leaned back in chair and stayed silent.

"Derek-" Lexi started but Olivia cut her off.

"Yeah us girls do that." She patted Derek's arm. I ducked my head to hide my smile. Derek was just such a lovable dork.

I felt a presence behind me but I didn't have to look to know it was Alex. I could practically feel the heat coming off of him. With him behind me I was suddenly well aware of how I looked. I literally just rolled out of bed. I didn't even bother going to the bathroom before coming down here to eat.

"How did you sleep babe?" I heard Nico ask beside me. Turning my head I watched as Lexi leaned back into Nico, a soft and content look on her face. It was a look I have never seen her with before.

"Better if you were there." Seeing the smile they shared I quickly looked away, not wanting to interrupt their moment. A hand reaching beside me towards my plate drew my attention.

Alex was quick in snatching the last piece of bacon off my plate before I could even move.

"Hey, thats mine! Get your own."

"Sharing is caring, freckles."

"Not when it comes to Turkey bacon." I scowled.

"Mmm its so good." Alex teased purposely next to my face. Turning in my chair I narrowed my eyes at him.

"You don't get to enjoy the bacon you stole."

"Yes I can." Smirking he took another bite of the bacon piece in his hand. Even though he only had a small piece left I reached out and snatched it away. Before he could stop me I plopped it in my mouth.

"Did you just steal my bacon?" Alex asked, one of his perfectly sculpted eyebrows raised.

"No, I took back MY bacon." I huffed.

"There's more over there freckles." He pointed towards the plate across from me on the counter.

"Well you should have taken it from there not my plate." Alex laughed under his breath at my comment.

"Someone doesn't like sharing."

"I'm hungry." I shrugged, although I felt slightly embarrassed.

"Couldn't tell." He teased and I instantly knew he was talking about a minute ago when I stuffed my face.

"Stop." I muttered looking away from him. I seem to have a knack for embarrassing myself in front of Alex.

"Here." I hadn't noticed he moved until he placed two more pieces of turkey bacon on my plate. He sent me a smile before moving away from me and going towards Noah. With him gone I shivered, almost instantly missing his warmth.

"What are we doing today?" Noah asked.

"I'm okay with whatever." Liv shrugged. Derek, Nico and Lexi agreed as I sighed to myself. I had work in just a few hours.

"Riley?" Noah asked.

"I'm free to do anything." I shrugged. Like always I had no plans.

"It looks like it may be a clear day, we could go swimming?" Noah suggested. At the mention of it being a clear day I perked up. It wasn't often it was a sunny here in Astoria so when it was you had to enjoy it.

"I"m down." Alex shrugged.

"Me too." Nico added, everyone else echoing his answer.

"We better get ready before it gets any later and before the weather changes." After Noah spoke a flurry of things happened. One second everyone was sitting down and the next moving around the kitchen, cleaning stuff up.

The excited energy coming off of Derek and Olivia was enough to make me excited to go swimming. It's not often we can go swimming around here and with winter right around the corner I bet this would be the last chance to.

With the help of everyone we managed to clean up breakfast in no time. After agreeing that Noah would drop me and Alex off first, then Nico and Lexi, leaving Liv and Derek to ride together; I went and grabbed my stuff.

With a quick thank you to Olivia for letting me stay I made my way to Noah's car. For the first time I found myself sitting next to Nico. His big frame taking up a lot of the backseat even though he was leaning more towards Lexi than me.

I never realized just how big of a guy he was. Because his legs were so long his knees were scrunched up making him look very uncomfortable. Everything about Nico screamed power. While I can see Alex as intimidating, Nico was twice that. All of the guys were similar heights but Nico somehow looked bigger. He honestly made Alex's 'bad boy' image nonexistent.

"How's the hand?" It took a moment for me to realize it wasn't Alex asking me that. No, it was Nico. I glanced up my eyes wide that he was actually talking to me. Nico has maybe said a total of five words to me since meeting him. It almost just as shocking that he was talking to me as it was when Lexi wasn't being rude to me.

"I uh good." I stumbled over my words, still trying to see if it was me he was talking to. Of course he is dumb ass, you're the only one with a hurt hand. I mentally yelled at myself.

"As long as you ice it you'll be fine."

"You know from experience?" I questioned.

"I've had my fair share of scuffles." That didn't surprise me at all honestly. Nico said it so casually like it was an everyday occurrence.

"Has everyone here fought before?" I asked Alex and Noah. I was genuinely curious. They were all such a tight knit group it wouldn't surprise me if they've fought together.

"Pretty much." Noah shrugged. "It's a guy thing. Kind of like a rite of passage."

"Kind of a stupid 'rite of passage'."

"You're now part of it, freckles." Alex smirked back at me. Glancing down at my hand and the bruised knuckles, I figured he was right. I did punch a guy for the first time last night.

"So does this mean I'm apart of the 'bad boy' gang?" I teased.

"The bad boy gang?" Nico asked, his eyebrow raised as he looked down at me.

"Yeah, Alex here is the designated 'bad boy' at Central High. And you guys, especially Nico, scream it too. So now add in fighting and its a gang." I explained, but the more I talked the stupider I sounded.

"Wow." At Lexi's comment my cheeks flushed.

"I like the sound of being in a gang." Noah suddenly said.

"It may ruin your pretty boy status." Lexi said, a smirk growing on her face.

"Hey, I can be a 'bad boy'." I watched as Noah puffed his chest out making me cover my mouth from laughing. If we were going to be honest Noah definitely had more of a....boy next door vibe. The blonde hair, blue eyes, athletic build.

"Yeah and my ass is big." Lexi rolled her eyes.

"Well do you have a big ass..." Noah trailed off.

"Have you been staring at my butt Noah?" The threatening tone made me duck my head from smiling. She was totally pulling his chain.

"I...uh....no..."

"Don't worry babe, your ass is cute." Nico added in.

Hearing stifled laughter I looked up to find Alex chuckling under his breath. Hearing the couple next to me kissing I scrunched my nose up.

"Nope you are not doing that in my car." Noah spoke loudly.

"We are just kissing." Lexi said, pulling away from Nico.

"Yeah well I've seen you guys go from making out to dry humping each other so none of that here. We have virgin eyes here!"

"Oh so you've finally accepted it. Good for you."

"Excuse me, I get tons of action for your information."

"Getting a kiss from your mom or grandma does not count."

"Hey my grandma is the best! And I get plenty of hot girls wanting to kiss me." There was no way in hell Noah didn't have girls hanging off his arm at school. Noah, along with everyone else, were the hottest guys I've ever seen.

The pair continued on bickering back and forth for a few more minutes before Alex interrupted them.

"Riley's house is right up here." Lexi and Noah finally stopped their bantering but I had to admit it was very entertaining listening to them send insults to one another.

When Noah pulled up to the curb of my house, I grabbed my stuff and jumped out of the car.

"I'll see you guys in a bit." I smiled over at Nico and Lexi before shutting the door. I went around the front of the car and found Alex leaning his head out the window.

"I'll pick you up in about 30-ish min?"

"Sounds good."

"And ice your hand before we leave." Rolling my eyes I turned and headed for my front door. "I'm serious freckles!" He called after me.

"I know!" I yelled back, but a smile was forming on my face. Unlocking my front door I turned and waved at them before they drove off.

Despite coming home to an empty house I was in a good mood. I was spending yet another weekend with Alex and his friends. It felt exciting going out again even if I did spend last night with them. This was the kind of stuff I missed the last few months.

Hearing Alex's voice in my head I made my way to the kitchen first before going to go shower. Grabbing an ice pack and a towel in one hand I headed for the stairs. Now that I was home it was like the pain in my hand intensified.

I really needed to stop getting hurt. This past week has been hell with my wrist and now my hand. I can't say that I regret last night though. I couldn't even imagine what my brother or my parents would think if they saw my wrist and hand. No doubt my brother would demand to know who did it to me, then be proud of me punching someone.

Smiling at the thought of my brother I sat my things on my bed before pulling out my phone and sending him a quick text. I haven't heard from him in ages and all of this made me miss him even more.

I wish I could tell him about everything going on here but I couldn't do that. Trent already had so much on his plate, the last thing he needed was his little sister problems. Plus I didn't want to bother him with stupid stuff like this. I can handle it on my own.

After sending him a quick text I put my backpack away and my clothes from yesterday, before getting ready to shower. Knowing Alex was picking me up in a bit made me get my butt in motion.

When I looked in the mirror I cringed. My once nicely curled hair was now in a rats nest and literally sticking up in places. I could clearly see the makeup I missed when cleaning my face last night. Eyeshadow was smudged on both sides of my eyes and my lips had a ring of lipstick.

I looked horrible. Why the hell didn't I look in the mirror before I went downstairs? I internally screamed at myself. I literally met Olivia's dad looking like this and then Alex and everyone else.

Wow, I sure knew how to make an impression.

Feeling beyond embarrassed I quickly got in the shower, ready to try and look presentable before Alex comes back to pick me up.

I needed up spending more time than I intended in the shower. The warm water felt nice and it helped wash away last night. I could still feel the ghost of hands grabbing me and it wasn't a good feeling.

After rubbing my skin almost raw and turning pink from the heat, I finally got out. As much as I wanted to stay in the shower I had to get ready.

By time I got out and brushed my rat nest of a hair, it was later than I anticipated. Seeing that Alex would be knocking on my door in less than 15 minutes, I felt myself began to panic a little bit. Throwing my hair into a messy bun at the top of my head, I rushed out of the bathroom.

With my towel still wrapped around me I started rummaging through my drawer for a swimsuit. I couldn't even remember the last time I went swimming so I had no clue if I even had something to wear.

It took a minute but at the very bottom of my drawer I found a greenish bathing suit I had no recollection of buying. But with nothing else it would have to do.

As soon as I put it on and looked in the mirror I instantly shook my head. No, I can't do this. The bathing suit was a bit smaller than when I first bought it. The top hugged my chest and made what little boobs I had look bigger. And the bottoms I felt like was bursting out of it. 

(First off, the model is gorgeous! And second, I wanted a simple bathing suit for Riley since it fits her character more) 

Once again Mitch's words echoed in my head, telling me I wasn't good enough and the last thing I should ever wear was this swimsuit. Maybe it wasn't a good idea going today. I should probably just stay home and let the others go without me.

Just as I was starting to peel off my bikini bottoms a knock downstairs made me stop. I was torn between changing then answering the door, but another knock sounded this one louder.

Sighing I quickly grabbed my robe hanging on the back of my door and put it on. With yet another knock I hurried down the stairs. With one hand holding my robe in place I reached for the doorknob. I realized too late it was my bad hand as I opened the door, holding in a yelp at the pain.

Standing on the other side of my door was Alex and he wasn't alone. Harper bounced on her toes standing next to her big brother. A grin appeared on my face seeing her cute one piece that was bright pink with a unicorn. Her black shoulder length hair was in two pigtails, which made me smile even more.

"Hey." Alex greeted. "Sorry about this but someone said they didn't need to use the bathroom before we left and now..." He trailed off as Harper tugged on his hand.

"I gotta go." She whispered loudly.

"It's okay, come in." Laughing I stepped aside. "The bathroom is just down the hall." I pointed.

Nudging the door closed I watched as Alex lead his sister to our spare bathroom, her impatiently tugging at his hand.

"Thanks, she loves to say she doesn't have to go until we get away from the house." Alex explained, coming back towards me.

"No worries." I waved him off.

"Is that what you are wearing?" He asked, raising an eyebrow as his eyes looked over my robe. "I don't think you'll be able to swim in that."

"You knocked when I was in the middle of changing."

"Sorry. You can go finish changing. I can't guarantee that Harper won't be demanding we go as soon as she comes out." I laughed at the expression on his face. Judging by that look Harper can be very impatient.

"Give me just a minute. Uh make yourself at home." I gestured to my living room before quickly running up the stairs.

With Harper and Alex here I had no choice but to wear the swimsuit I already had on. And there was no way of backing out now. Not wanting to keep them long I quickly throw on a pair of shorts and a random black tank top. Pulling my hair into a quick messy bun

I could hear Harper talking excitedly downstairs which made me grab the first pair of flips flops I saw. Snatching up my phone, purse, and a jacket just in case, I was good to go. A quick glance around my room to make sure I wasn't missing anything, I headed back downstairs.

"Ready to go?" I asked, walking towards the pair. Harper nodded her had, tugging on her brothers hand.

"Lets goooo."

"Okay, okay lets go." Grinning I followed the two to the door. I didn't know Harper was coming along but I didn't mind a single bit.

Once everyone was situated in Alex's car we headed for Noah's. It didn't surprise me in the least that Noah had a pool in his backyard. His house was insanely big!

"Did you ice your hand like I said?" Remembering that I left the ice pack on my bed I groaned. Great, i'll probably have a big wet mark on my bed when I get home. "Judging by the groan that's a no."

"No, and I left it on my bed too."

"You do know it isn't going to heal if you don't take care of it." Alex said, almost scolding me.

"Yeah, yeah dad." Lifting my right hand I showed him. "It isn't even that bad."

"Straighten your hand out then." Alex glanced over at me before back to the road. His know it all tone made me want to roll my eyes. I moved my hand, trying to straighten it out only to yelp and wince.

"You need to ice it and take some pain pills when we get to Noah's."

"What happened Riley?" Harper's head popped up between the seats.

"I uh feel down the stairs yesterday."

"Ali comes home with booboo's sometimes." Glancing over at Alex I noticed he was gripping the steering wheel with white knuckles and his jaw was clenched.

"Do you need me to kiss it better Riley?" I loved how she dragged out the "Ri" part of my name. It was so cute.

"Of course." I brought my right hand closer to her. When she leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on my knuckles I felt my chest tighten. This little girl was the cutest, most innocent girl I've ever met. And she clearly had a great heart.

"Thank you! It feels better already." Harper smiled at that and leaned back in her seat, looking out the window.

We were all quiet for a few minutes. Right as we were turning down Noah's street Alex spoke.

"Your car is done by the way."

"It is?" Finally! I didn't realize how much I missed driving until I didn't have a car.

"Yeah. I can pick you up tomorrow to go get it or Monday." Alex offered.

"It's okay I can find a way there. You don't have to."

"I seriously don't mind. We'll go get it tomorrow." His tone let me know it wasn't up for discussion.

"Well thank you." I ducked my head so he wouldn't see the small smile on my face. Alex has already done so much for me and I had no way of paying him back for it. My thoughts were interrupted by Harper squealing loudly.

Alex pulled up between Nico's truck and Derek's. He had barely stopped the car before the backdoor was open and out flew Harper.

"Be careful!" Alex yelled after her little form. "She is going to be the death of me." He muttered.

"She's adorable."

"When she wants to be. But give her some sugar and she's a little devil."

"Like Rina and Layla are? I don't believe it." The two of us made our way inside Noah's house, following the loud squeals of Harper.

"Of course those two were good when you were there. They are little terrors." Alex shivered next to me. Laughing I shook my head.

"You do know Rina has a crush on you."

"Who has a crush on Alex?" Noah suddenly, popping out of no where as we came around into the kitchen.

"No one." Alex answered at the same time as me.

"Rina."

"Who's Rina?" Noah, asked ignoring Alex.

"A friend of Harper's that is six." The grin on my face got wider with each word.

"A 6 year old? Can't get anyone your age there buddy?" Noah teased, shoving Alex's shoulder.

"At least I have someone who likes me." Alex shoved Noah back.

"Yeah but a six year old isn't something to brag about there big guy." Before Alex could punch him, Noah danced away laughing. "Guys, guess what!" I heard him yell outback. I giggled, loving their friendship.

"Yeah, yeah, laugh it up there freckles. I'll get you back for that." Alex turned to me.

"I'm so scared." I waved my hands around as if I was frightened. He rolled his eyes at me but I could see a ghost of a smile.

"Come, lets get you some ice and head out back." I went to protest, sick of having to hold ice on my skin but one look from him shut me up. Okay, hard ass. I mentally said back to him.

I trailed behind him reluctantly as Alex grabbed yet another ice pack from Noah's freezer and a towel. Wordlessly he grabbed my wrist and pressed the covered ice pack to my knuckles. I inhaled at the cold.

"That's always the worst part." I muttered.

"Just a few minutes and you can take it off." I knew what a 'few minutes' meant. To Alex that meant half an hour! "Lets get your mind off of it."

Letting me take over pressing the ice to my knuckles, Alex placed a hand on my back and lead me towards the door that lead outback. I could hear laughter and squeals, which no doubt came from Harper. Although I could see Derek squealing like that.

Stepping outback my jaw fell open. Noah's backyard was huge! Straight ahead laid a huge rectangle pool that Harper and Derek were playing in. One side looked to be less deep than the other and it had a diving board.

To the left of the pool was a pretty big hot tub that I knew I was going to get into later. On the right side of the pool was a bunch of chairs, tables and benches that everyone else was sitting on.

Past the pool I could see grass and beautiful flower beds lining the rest of the yard. You could fit another pool back here if they really wanted honestly. No wonder everyone wanted to always go to Noah's to hang out.

"So you have a six year old girlfriend." Nico spoke as we got near. Alex's head whipped towards me and his eyes narrowed. I smiled, knowing everyone was going to keep going on about it.

"Hey." I greeted Olivia as I moved to sit next to her. Just as I sat down she slipped off her shirt, revealing a really cute bathing suit. I instantly felt self-conscious with what I had on underneath my clothes.

"What's that all about?" She asked gesturing towards Alex who was now playfully punching Noah's arm.

"Alex was saying how Harper can be a little devil along with her friends that we babysat the other day. I brought up the fact that one of her friends, Rina, had a crush on him."

"Good idea bringing up in front of Noah, now the guys wont stop messing with him about it."

"Good, bring his ego down a bit." I giggled.

"He may have a big ego but he's got a big heart." I glanced over at Alex just in time to see him lift a soaking wet Harper in the air, her squeals echoing around the yard. I could have sworn my heart melted right then and there in my chest. The sight of a good looking guy with little kids was enough to make any girl fall.

"Here do you need sunscreen?" Olivia jerked me out of my staring.

"Uh..." I was saved from answering when Derek called out Liv's name. I wasn't quite sure I was going to take off my clothes anyways. Standing next to someone as gorgeous as Liv would just make me hate myself even more.

My gaze moved towards Derek's voice and found him standing there next to Alex, Noah and Nico. Almost like they all planned it, one by one started to take off their shirts.

Derek was already shirtless so my eyes went to him first. He was surprisingly ripped. Not in an overly gross way either. You could see the v-line leading to his pants, and a soft imprint of a four pack. He looked really, really good.

Next my eyes landed on Noah. Oh yes, he definitely had an athletes body but more of a swimmers body. Wide shoulders and back muscles. He had a clear defined four pack that honestly wasn't surprisingly.

Right next to him was Nico. My eyes widened when I noticed he was more chiseled than the other two. I never noticed how big his arms really were either. What looked like maybe a six-pack graced his abdomen and a severe v-line disappearing into his swim trunks.

My gaze didn't stay long on Nico. My eyes drifted towards Alex all on their own, and what I saw was definitely worthy of all the rumors around school.

Where as Nico was more bulky and Noah more slim, Alex was right in between. The perfect amount of muscle on his arms and shoulders that you knew he worked out. Then his abs...oh his abs. A nicely formed four back maybe even a six-pack, I couldn't tell from here, stood out.

I watched as he brought his hands up to run them through his hair, making his abs and arms flex. I couldn't stop staring. Nothing I did could pull me away from the view of four very hot, very muscular guys in front of me. How its legal they can be this hot, I have no idea.

(Can't have too many half-naked gifs of 'Alex' :P) 

"Uh Riley." An elbow to my side made me jump. "You have a little drool there." Liv pointed to my chin with a wide grin. I quickly reached up to find no drool. I narrowed my eyes at her while she just laughed.

"Next time maybe be less obvious about staring."

"I wasn't..." She cut me off with a look. Damn, it was that obvious.

"It's okay I don't blame you. They are all in great shape." I watched as she kept sneaking glances over at Derek. They definitely liked each other but neither of them know the others feelings, which is so obvious.

"Come on you two! Lets get in the pool!" Looking away from Liv I found everyone standing there looking at the two of us. Lexi stood next to Nico in a very sexy black swimsuit, fitting perfectly with everyone else with good bodies. Did everyone in this freaking friend group hot? It wasn't fair!

I slowly trailed behind Olivia as she made her way to the pool. Harper already was running ahead of everyone before jumping in on the shallower side. One by one everyone got in the pool. With the sun shining down on me I felt warm in my clothing but the idea of just wearing my bathing suit made me nervous.

I wasn't the most attractive person and in this group of friends I was definitely the ugly duckling. Mitch always made some snide remark about my body which definitely didn't help. I didn't want to hear those remarks again; especially from these guys. I hear them enough at school as it is.

"You coming?" Noah called out from the middle of the pool. Everyone looked at me standing at the edge, still holding the ice pack to my hand.

"I think I'll sit out for a bit. Ice my hand and what not." It was a lame excuse but they seemed to buy it.

"Okay." Noah turned away but I still felt eyes on me. Glancing around my eyes landed on Alex. He stared at me with an expression I couldn't place. Breaking eye contact I turned and headed for a chair off to the side. I'll just sit here until everyone is done and ready to go back inside.

For the next five minutes I sat there watching as everyone swam around. Harper's squeals intensified as all the boys played with her. She's run around the pool before launching herself into one of their arms. It was so cute watching them all act around her. She had them wrapped around her finger so well.

I was too busy watching the guys to notice Liv and Lexi get out of the pool and sit next to me.

"Why aren't you getting in? You keep longingly looking at the pool." Liv asked, making me look over at her.

"I uh need to ice my hand." On the other side of me Lexi snorted.

"Wow you can't lie for shit."

"Alex told me to ice it." I tried to explain but we all knew I was lying.

"You're hand is fine Riley. Why won't you come in the pool with us? I promise no one has peed in the water...well maybe." I fought off a grin at Liv's words. Shaking my head I looked back at the water.

"I can't." I said, my voice soft.

"You can't swim?" Lexi asked.

"No I can swim I..." A hand on my arm made me close my eyes. "I'm not pretty enough to wear a bathing suit." The last part came out in a whisper.

"What? Who told you that?"

"Mitch always made remarks about my weight. And if I would grab something to eat he'd make a face at me." It use to bug me that Mitch would do that but I would brush off the comments, thinking I shouldn't complain when I have this hot popular guy dating me.

"That guy I..."Liv trailed off taking a deep breath to calm herself. "Riley don't you dare believe a word that asshat ever said. You are gorgeous. You really have no clue how pretty you are." She softly squeezed my arm as I felt tears well up in my eyes. "You shouldn't miss out on fun because of what some dumb ass said. And the said dumb asses opinion doesn't even matter."

"Hey! You three, turn around!" Lexi suddenly yelled from beside me. I looked at her with wide eyes wondering what she was doing. The boys in the pool stopped and turned to look at her.

"What?"

"Turn around and face the back of the yard."

"Why? Are you planning on pranking us again?" Alex asked.

"I"m not falling for it!" Derek yelled back.

"No I'm not. Just turn around for a damn second!"

"No."

"Turn. Around. Now." The threatening tone was enough to scare me. I watched slightly amused as the guy's eyes went wide and they slowly turned around. "Do not turn around until I say. No peeking."

"What are you doing?" I asked her quietly.

"Getting you in the pool." Lexi shrugged.

"Why?"

"Because guys who say stuff about a girls weight should rot in hell. You deserve to go in the pool and now you can. They aren't watching." She stood up a proud smirk on her face. I stared up at her surprised. Did Lexi just help me out? Was the world ending?

"Come on Riley." Liv stood up, a smile on her face. Glancing over I saw the boys were still turned around and talking to one another, Noah holding Harper in his arms.

They were right. I didn't need to sit out on the fun and on the only sunny day just because of what Mitch has said to me.

"Okay." At my words Liv did a little dance.

Standing up I placed the ice pack down, which had now gone cold, and reached to take off my pants. Knowing the guys won't stay turned around for long I quickly slid my shorts off and pulled off my tank top.

"I love the bathing suit Riley." Liv commented, making me smile. The three of us quickly made our way to the stairs of the pool. Before the guys could turn around and before I could chicken out I quickly stepped into the pool until I was completely covered by the water.

"Okay you can turn around." Lexi called out, getting in behind me.

They all turned around and looked at us in confusion.

"Why did we have to turn around?" Nico asked.

"No reason." She shrugged swimming off. I smiled after her, forever thankful for what Lexi just did.

"Riley!" Harper beamed, squirming out of Noah's hold and paddling towards me. In a matter of seconds she had her arms wrapped tightly around my neck. Thankfully I was still in the shallower end and could touch the bottom as she held onto me.

"Do you want to play with us?" Harper asked, flashing me a wide smile and showing off her missing tooth.

"Sure! What are we playing?"

"Polo." Instead of saying 'polo' she said it was 'powo', making my grin wider. She really was adorable.

"Who's Polo?" I looked around at everyone.

"Ali!"

"Yeah Ali." I teased. The little glare he sent me made me laugh. He was so fun to tease.

"Okay Ali lets start." Noah added in. Alex's glare intensified as he looked at his best friend.

When Alex moved to the edge of the pool and turned around, everyone started moving away. For a split second I stared at his back, watching as his muscles contracted, before Harper moved in my arms.

Still holding onto her I moved us towards the deeper end, further away from Alex. The closer I got to the deep end with Harper in my arms the harder it was to stay afloat. I moved us closer to the edge incase she needed to hold onto it. Just as I did I heard Alex yell 'Marco!'.

With everyone spread out in the pool, Alex slowly made his way around. With everyone 'Marco' someone yelled 'Polo'. Harper would giggle in my ear as we watched her bother move blindly around the pool. A few times he bumped into the edge of the pool which was hilarious.

When he got closer to us I quickly moved Harper and I away while she yelled 'polo'. Finally Alex was able to tag Derek and Noah, which left me, Liv, Lexi and Nico.

The game continued like that for a few more minutes until I turned my head for one second. Suddenly Harper was squealing right next to my ear. Whipping my head around I found Alex coming fast towards us.

"Go Harper!" I pried her from my neck and pushed her towards Nico's way, who was closer to us. Harper paddled her little heart out towards Nico who swooped her up in his arms. Just as I turned my head back around a pair of arms wrapped around my bare waist.

"Gotcha."

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I'M ALIVE! I know its been two weeks since I last updated and I am severely sorry about that. I've been in a funk lately with writing and just everything honestly. I'm not sure whats up with me lately but thank you all for being so patient with me! 

I hope this long chapter makes up for the wait though! Things are starting to get so much better I swear! I have so much planned for this book and we are finally getting to some big scenes which basically set the whole book. 

Also...THANK YOU A BILLION FOR THE 29.K READS ON THIS STORY! Ahhh how insane is that! You guys are amazing! And thank you for the 72.6k followers! I can't wrap my head around the fact that 72 THOUSAND people follow little old me. And we are so close to 1,000 followers on Twitter! So if you haven't followed me on that feel free to follow me. I love interacting with you guys! (Twitter: Kendoll350. Insta/Snapchat : OutOfMyLimit17)

Thank you guys for being so patient! I love you all so much! I hope you guys liked this chapter! Let me know what you think as always :)

VOTE, COMMENT

<3 <3 <3

-Ken

P.S Do you guys like pictures/gifs in chapters? 

P.P.S What are you guys watching lately? My parents are leaving for a week soon and I need shows to watch while they are gone!! 

P.P.P.S Who do you guys picture Nico, Noah, Derek, Lexi, Olivia as??? I still can't find anyone for them. So feel free to suggest!