Semi-Edited (why do I even put this here anymore)

Song above is....If We Never Met by JOHN.k (omg this song is everything! Literally amazing highly recommend listening at the end of this chapter)

Happy Reading! :)

"Here is your coffee and donut, your highness." Noah placed both on the counter in front of me. I grinned already loving our little deal. Waking up to coffee and a donut was something I could definitely get use to.

"Thank you." I chirped swiping the iced coffee and taking a sip. It wasn't as sweet as I usually take it but I gladly drank. It took me awhile to fall asleep last night and now we are up at 7 o'clock on a Saturday, I was gonna need all the caffeine today.

"Why the hell are we up so early?" Olivia moaned from underneath her arms. The moment she walked through my door ten minutes ago she instantly laid her head on the counter and closed her eyes. "It's Saturday."

I agreed with her on that. It was definitely too early to be up on saturday. If I wasn't excited about spending the morning with Alex I would be whining about being up too. I could feel my bed calling out for me as we speak.

"I told you to stay home and I'd come by later." Derek said.

"And leave Riley alone with you guys? Nope girls gotta stick together." She mumbled. I grinned and softly rubbed her back in thanks.

"But seriously why so early? It's not like its gonna get hot." I asked. It was almost the end of October which meant Summer was now long gone. And then add in the fact it was still slightly dark out, or could be the clouds.

"Early bird gets the worm freckles." Alex grinned.

"That's the stupidest saying I've ever heard." Liv muttered. I hummed in response and took another huge gulp from my coffee.

"Come on sleepy pants lets get going." Derek laughed, moving around the counter towards Liv. I watched as he gently pulled her up while she groaned. I wasn't sure if she was awake enough but she leaned her entire weight against Derek, wrapping her arm around his waist and he gently lead her towards the door.

I stared after the pair with a soft smile. Maybe they don't need me interfering after all.

"Did losing to me affect your sleep last night?" I asked Noah as the three of us headed after Liv and Derek.

"Nope, slept like a peach."

"I heard him crying through the walls." Alex whispered but still loud enough for Noah to hear.

"I did not cry!" Noah defended himself.

"Oh it wasn't you that was crying that you should have won?" I bit down on my straw with a grin as I watched the two. We may have another 'Derek and Alex' on the lawn fiasco in a second.

"It's okay to be sensitive." Alex patted his friends shoulder as he walked past.

"You sure you wanna pull at that thread? I know a lot of secret stories that Riley doesn't know." Noah called out, a smug look on his face. I perked up intrigued.

"I have nothing to hide." Alex shrugged, stopping to turn and face Noah.

"Okay then." I didn't miss the devious look on Noah's face. "One time Alex was watching Dear John and-"

"Noah you finish that sentence and I will beat you to a pulp." Alex interrupted his voice hard.

"I thought you had nothing to hide?" Noah smirked.

"Noah." Alex warned. They shared a look before Noah nodded.

"Fine." With another look at his best friend Alex turned back towards the car. "For now." Noah added sending me a sly grin. I chuckled under my breath definitely wanting to hear the rest of that story.

Since Lexi and Nico were going to meet us at the park the five of us piled into Noah's car. I sat in the back with Derek and Liv, happily eating my chocolate glazed donut. A donut and coffee were the only thing making this early morning worth it.

Thankfully the ride to a near by park didn't take too long. When we pulled in there was only two other cars since it was still so early. Most people are still sleeping this early on a Saturday.

Looking out the window at the park I smiled as memories surfaced. Trent and I use to come here all the time to play on the swings. Then we'd go out into the huge field and kick the soccer ball around.

Stepping out of the car I took a deep breath in and shivered. It was definitely a lot colder than I thought it would be. It was very overcast today and actually looked like it would rain soon. Maybe I should have worn more than a pair of exercise shorts and a long sleeve shirt.

Liv came up to my side looking just as cold even though she had a sweatshirt on already.

"I should have stayed in bed." She said grumpily.

"You can always stay in the car." I supplied.

"Don't worry Liv I got you." Derek said making us turn around towards the trunk of the car. As if from no where Derek pulled out a large fluffy blanket. I watched in envy as he wrapped the blanket around Liv's shoulders. Despite being envious of the warm blanket I felt my lips tug into smile at the sight of the two.

Derek was standing right in front of Liv and she was smiling up at him with the softest look. Kiss her damn it. Instead of listening to my silent demand, Derek pulled away. I groaned under my breath.

"Give it time." Alex suddenly whispered in my ear. I jumped not expecting him there.

"Don't do that." I hissed, smacking his stomach.

"I thought girls liked it when guys whispered in their ears."

"Not in a creepy way like that." I shook my head. Just then a loud truck could be heard pulling into the parking lot. Nico parked his truck next to Noah's car and jumped out.

"Where's Lexi?" I asked not seeing her next to Nico.

"She wasn't feeling too good so she stayed home." I frowned at that. Nothing worse than feeling sick.

"Are you guys ready to play?" Noah asked. A chorus of yes's went around the group. With a slight wind chill I bounced on my toes trying to stay a little warmer.

"Here." Alex softly nudged my arm. In his outstretched hand was a red sweatshirt. "You are shivering and I always keep an extra in my bag." He shrugged. It was only then that I noticed he carried a duffle bag on his shoulder. It was the exact same one my brother use to bring here as well.

Not one to turn down a warm sweatshirt, especially one of Alex's, I gratefully took it from him. I quickly pulled it over my head, probably messing up my hair, and sighed at the warmth. It was huge on me and went almost to my knees. I was instantly met with Alex's cologne.

"Thank you." We shared a smile before we all started for the open field. With Alex in front of me I discreetly brought the collar up to my nose and inhaled. I'm never giving this sweatshirt back.

Staying in the back a little I stared after Alex. He was wearing a pair of long athletic pants that somehow were the hottest things on him. When guys say they like girls in leggings, girls liked guys in those pants. And he had on a simple grey sweatshirt.

(This is kind of what I have in mind but I can't seem to find a good picture)

"You're drooling." Noah swooped in next to me and softly shoved me in the shoulder.

"Am not." Turning my head away I quickly wiped at my face. Okay maybe I was. Not my fault his ass looks good in those pants.

"You know it's kinda crazy." Noah said walking beside me while the others were ahead.

"What is?"

"You and Alex look at each other with the same look."

"What look?" I don't stare at Alex with a look.

"A look like you each can't believe the other is real. It's gross but cute."

"No we don't." I quickly defended.

"Yeah you do. I've known Alex almost his entire life and I know the look he gives you. And you well...your an open book." I never realized I was that much of an open book. "That's not a bad thing Riley, means you wear your heart on your sleeve. Alex needs someone like that."

I followed his gaze towards his best friend who was now coming to a stop in the middle of the field.

"Just maybe try and keep the 'eye-fucking' to a minimum around us, kay." Noah smirked.

"Noah!" I gasped. Before I could reach out and smack him he took off laughing. "I'm going to kill you!" I yelled after him.

Shaking my head I made my way over to the ground, glaring at Noah who just smirked back at me.

"So who's playing?" Alex asked as he took a seat on the grass. I watched as he pulled out multiple pairs of cleats, then handed them out to Noah and Derek, then himself. I didn't even notice until right then that Nico already had a pair on. Damn they came prepared with cleats too. Dorks. I mentally muttered.

"I'm good." Liv said, sitting down herself still wrapped in her blanket.

"Then it will be two on two. Derek and Noah, Nico and I on teams." Alex started to say. Frowning I butted in.

"Excuse me." All the boys looked up at me. "You're forgetting someone." I pointed to myself with a raised eyebrow.

"You want to play?" I had to force myself not to roll my eyes. Playing my hands on my hips I nodded.

"I didn't wake up this early to just sit here and watch you pass the ball back and forth."

"You sure? We play pretty hard and you didn't bring cleats." Noah said.

"Yeah I'm sure, I'm playing. I'll be fine without cleats." I waved him off. I had on my trusty pair of soccer shoes I always wore with Trent. The boys shared a look between the four of them.

"Fine by me." Nico shrugged, along with Derek.

"Okay, then it's going to be three against two."

"I say Nico, Riley and I will be on a team against you two." Derek pointed to Alex and Noah. "See if you two are really as good as you say to beat us three."

Alex and Noah smirked at each other and stood up. The smirk between them made me instantly think, oh shit. I knew the two of them played on the same soccer team since they were little. Both in school and outside of it, until well....until the accident. From what I've heard they both were great players.

I knew Derek played on the school team with Alex as well but I had no clue about Nico. He didn't seem like the soccer type but I had a feeling he was pretty much good at everything.

Standing there next to all four of them I felt extremely small. They all stood 6 feet or taller and here I was at 5'5. Maybe agreeing to play soccer with four athletic, tall, fit guys wasn't the smartest idea.

"Sounds good to us." Alex grinned while pulling out a soccer ball. "Lets get warmed up then."

While the four of them moved a bit away to start warming up I glanced down at Liv. She looked up at me with a sympathetic smile.

"Good luck." It didn't come out too confident and it made me instantly second guess my decision.

Well here goes nothing.

* * * * * * * * * *

I did my own little stretches off to the side while the boys did full on warmups. I'm talking running back and forth a few times, jumping, kicking their legs out. I felt so out of place with my little stretches and no cleats. Once the guys were done we branched off into our teams.

"So Riley how good are you at soccer?" Nico asked gazing down at me. The way the two were looking at me I could tell they doubted that I was any good.

"I can play."

"Uh." Derek and Nico shared a look. "Maybe you just stay near the back while Nico and I go against Alex and Noah." I wanted so bad to roll my eyes. I liked Derek, I did, but he was once again doubting that I could do something. I hated being told that I could do something when I could.

"I think you've forgotten who my brother is." I placed my hands on my hips and leveled a look at both boys. "Who do you think trained with him?"

"You trained with your brother? Trent Carson?" Derek raised an eyebrow in surprise.

"We came here every weekend and played. So trust me, I know how to play." A smile slowly started to creep up on Derek's face.

"This is great. Those two don't know that, so you are like our secret weapon. Maybe this time we can finally beat them."

"We try not to let the two of them be on a team because they are that good." Nico added in. "If you see a shot take it." I nodded. I can do this. I wasn't that bad at a soccer...hopefully.

Sending each other hopeful smiles we broke apart and went towards Alex and Noah. For some reason the two of them were severely intimidating right now. They were pretty intimidating anyways but standing there relaxed just causally talking to each other I felt it.

"Ready?" Alex asked, looking between the three of us. His eyes lingered on me longer then the others. I curled the long sleeves of the sweatshirt into my hands, a little self-conscious at how I looked. I bet I looked like a little kid with this huge sweatshirt on.

"Yep." Derek answered while Nico and I nodded.

"Remember no hard hits." Alex gave Derek, Nico and even Noah a hard look as he said this. No one even glanced at me as they nodded back to Alex. I wanted to question what that was about but the guys were already moving into positions.

Not sure why but Nico and Derek put be directly in front of Alex who had the ball. While I was intimidated standing in front of Alex and his tall frame I knew I had a slight edge. He didn't know I practiced and played with my brother almost every weekend. I can hold my own.

"You ready for this freckles?" Alex taunted.

"You should be asking yourself that Ally." I shot back with a smirk.

"That's the nickname you went with?" Alex raised an eyebrow.

"Yep! Harper gave me permission to use it." I grinned.

"There's another name I think would fit better." The way he looked at me made my mouth dry.

"Enough flirting! Lets go." Derek yelled behind us.

"Later." With a wink Alex then kicked the ball towards Noah before I could blink. With one last smirk he took off past me.

Cursing under my breath at the distraction I ran after him. As I moved around our makeshift field old memories came back of Trent and I playing. It was always something I looked forward to on the weekends. Even though Trent was older and could be doing anything he always made time to hang out with me and was never embarrassed about it. He even would invite me along with his friends to practice.

A pang went through my chest. I missed Trent more than I'd ever admit. Even though I talked to him the other day it wasn't the same as having him here. Ignoring the feeling I focused on trying to get the ball back from Alex.

I jogged after Alex my eyes glued to him as he effortlessly kicked the ball back and forth between feet, occasionally going between his legs like it was not a big deal. The way he moved was almost like he was floating.

I was literally in a daze as I watched him pass it to Noah who anticipated the move, moving down the field just as effortlessly. Nico and Derek were running beside them trying to get the ball but the pair were too in sync. While there wasn't a net we made the net where Liv was currently sitting. In a matter of seconds Alex and Noah managed to score.

Damn. I hadn't full anticipated how good Alex and Noah were. I shouldn't be that surprised considering I've heard how good they were on the school team, but seeing with my own eyes was different. I had stopped going to the school soccer games once my brother graduated so I never really saw Alex in action.

"Hey," a soft tap on my arm snapped my attention back. "maybe less staring and more playing." Nico suggested, a teasing look on his face. I blushed having been caught staring like an idiot.

Riley get your shit together. It's just Alex. No big deal. I mentally chastised myself. Shaking myself to get rid of my stupid, hormonal thoughts I focused back on the game. Now was not the time to get distracted.

Derek was moving down the field kicking the ball while Noah ran beside him. Wanting to prove I wasn't horrible at soccer I jogged towards the pair, gesturing for Derek to pass the ball.

Derek hesitated for a second, as if questioning if he should or not, before he finally passed it towards me. With Noah still besides Derek and Alex with Nico behind me I took off. Remembering the tips my brother I ran towards our 'end of the field'.

Behind me I could hear someone coming up from behind. My legs weren't that long and I had a feeling I knew exactly who was behind me. From the corner of my eye I saw Alex coming up beside me. While I was busy pumping my arms and legs, panting, he looked like he was just casually taking a stroll.

Seeing our little makeshift goal on the other end I picked up my speed, making sure to keep the ball closer to me in case Alex tried something. And I was proven right when Alex got closer and closer to my side as we neared the goal line.

I saw Alex make his move to steal the ball and somehow I managed to kick the ball further out, pivoting on my heel moving around Alex as he stepped into the space I was just in. Before he could realize what just happened I had the ball back and kicking it through the 'net'.

I grinned at the fact that I managed to score on Alex. A loud 'whoop' came from Derek behind me which made my grin grow. Turning on my heel I sent Alex a smirk before jogging back towards the center of the field.

The look on Alex's face was priceless. He stared after me like he couldn't believe I just did that. It was probably pure luck but I was gonna take it, may not happen again.

"I knew having you on our team would be worth it." Derek boasted, clapping me hard on the back. I grunted at the hard hit but I was still smiling.

"Now keep it up for another hour or so." Nico said as he jogged past us.

"Wait." I called after him. We were gonna do this for a full hour? "What do you mean another hour!"

* * * * * * * * * * *

I'm dying. Literally dying. Pretty sure I can see the light ahead. But I was okay with that, it was my time to go and I've come to accept that.

"Just let me go. Go on without me."

"Riley."

"No go on. I'll be okay."

"Riley."

"Let me die in peace."

"You're perfectly fine."

"It burns." I moaned dramatically.

"Alex tell her she's fine." Someone sighed from above me.

"Everything okay down here?" I cracked open my eyes and saw Alex squatting beside me.

"Oh you know just casually dying."

"We've only been playing an hour and a half." Only? It felt like we've been out here for ages. My dumb ass thought it was a good idea to push just as hard as everyone else to show off that I could in fact keep up. Add on the fact that I decided to be the person guarding Alex and lets just say the guy never tires.

"I'm not a robot." I muttered. Alex chuckled standing back up, extending his hand.

"Come on, lets get you up." I glanced up at the sky and sighed. It was seconds away from raining and I knew if I stayed laying there any longer I'd never get up or I'd get rained on.

With a groan I reached out for Alex's hand. He easily lifted me off the ground like I weighed less than a sack of potatoes.

"Better?" Alex asked looking down at me. I nodded. Laying down for just a minute actually helped. My lungs weren't burning anymore and my legs weren't as shaky. I don't know what I was thinking when I agreed to play soccer with all four of them. They were all in the best shape and then....there was me. Should have stayed on the sidelines with Olivia.

I bet I was a sight to see. I knew most of my hair had fallen out of it's ponytail, I was sweaty and still clad in Alex's sweatshirt that hung off of my frame.

"You did great though Riley." Derek pulled me into a tight hug. "If you practiced with us a bit more we could win the next one." When he pulled back we exchanged smiles.

Despite the absolute torture of playing soccer with the four of them, I did have fun. I got to see more of all of them. I had no clue just how good Noah and Alex were. Hell even Derek was good and went head to head with Alex and Noah. Nico was the most surprising. He didn't scream someone who did sports yet he was just as good.

"We'll get them next time." Nico nudged my shoulder, the corner of his mouth tilting up. It was the most emotion I've seen from him so far and it made my grin grow.

We may have lost but we only lost by two points. Probably better than most could say going up against Alex and Noah. And not to brag I did make quite a few goals of my own.

"Maybe less running next time." I suggested.

"It wasn't even that long." Noah shook his head at me.

"Some of us don't have giraffe like legs." I shot back.

"Some of us actually have long legs." My mouth shot open at his comeback.

"Well some of us aren't freakishly tall." I placed my hands on my hips as I stared up at him.

"Not my fault you are freakishly small."

"Not my fault you are freakishly ugly." I clapped back, a smug smile taking over my face at my comeback.

"You did not say that." Noah's eyes widened.

"Yes I did." I stated proudly.

Before I could say another word Noah lunged for me. With insanely fast reflexes he grabbed me and hauled me over his shoulder. His shoulder dug painfully into my stomach before he started twirling me around.

"Noah!!!" I screamed clenching onto his waist so I wouldn't fall.

"Take back what you said." Noah said as he swung us back and forth.

"Never!" I lifted my head to see the others watching us with amused expressions. I caught eyes with Alex, silently pleading for him to come to my rescue. But like the littler traitor he is he merely just shrugged.

"Alex!" I gasped feeling betrayed. He crossed his arms and stood there watching as his best friend swung me around. "You're dead to me." I hissed.

"All you have to do is say, 'Noah I'm sorry for calling you ugly. You really are a Greek God'. That's it." He kept on twirling us making my head dizzy and my stomach hurt worse from his boney ass shoulder.

"Fine!" Finally Noah stopped and waited for me to say the words.

"Noah I'm sorry...your so ugly." I said instead. I laughed loudly at my own joke as Noah gasped.

"You little shit." Instead of spinning us around Noah took off at a run but I was too busy laughing at myself to even care. I finally calmed down and patted Noah back.

"Okay I really am sorry for calling you ugly."

"I know." Noah came to a stop. "We all know I'm the most attractive one in the group." I laughed but didn't disagree. If I was being honest Noah was severely attractive. From the moment I met him in Sofia's Bookstore I found him hot. I mean who wouldn't.

Noah had that 'boy-next-door' vibe about him. The slightly longer blond hair, the deep beautiful blue eyes, jawline that all the guys in our group seemed to have. Then add on that he was athletic, tall, sweet, kind, and loves kids. He was basically the whole package.

If I wasn't so into Alex I probably would have a huge crush on Noah. And I can bet you tons of girls at his school would die to date him.

"Just remember girls like confident guys, not cocky ones." I added.

"That was confidence." Noah shook his head as he turned to head back to the group, me still on his shoulder.

"Anytime you refer to yourself as a 'Greek God' it's cocky."

"But if a girl calls you a Greek God it's fine?" He questioned.

"Sounds about right." I shrugged even though he couldn't see me.

"Girl logic is so weird." He muttered.

"Welcome to girl world where nothing makes sense." I patted his back.

We finally came back to the group and Noah let me down. Once I was on solid ground the blood rushed to my head making my head spin.

"You good?" Alex asked, grabbing my elbow.

"Yeah I'm good." I closed my eyes for a moment but a second later I felt better. "Don't think I'll forget you abandoning me."

"You looked like you could handle it." Alex shrugged.

"Uh huh so that wasn't payback for scoring against you?" I placed my hands on my hips and tilted my head to the side.

"Nope." There was a small smirk on his face that let me know he was lying.

"Just remember karma's a bitch." I smiled sweetly before walking over to Liv. The next time Liv needed someone to put makeup on Alex was going to be top of the list for volunteers.

"That boy is so infatuated with you." Liv grinned. My heart sputtered at her words.

"I hope so." I spoke it softly but Liv still heard me.

"He is. Probably more than you realize." I glanced over my shoulder. Alex was standing there talking with the guys. His hair was sticking to his forehead from sweat and when he laughed at something Derek said his eyes got smaller as he smiled. He was almost too attractive.

Alex looked up and met my gaze. He sent me a wink that made me quickly turn back around so he wouldn't see how red my face was turning.

I focused my attention back on Liv and let the boys behind us continue their conversation. Liv and I were mid-talk about her youtube videos when the first drop hit. Touching my wet cheek I looked upwards. As soon as I looked up the dark clouds above us finally let loose.

The rain came down fast, soaking my face. Liv let out a yell as she got pelted. It wasn't a huge surprise that it was raining, it looked it was seconds away all morning.

"Get to the car!" Liv yelled before she took off, clenching the blanket around her. I watched as she ran, Derek following after her.

I kept standing there getting soaked by the rain as everyone else ran towards the car.

"What are you doing?" Alex asked, coming and stopping directly in front of me. He was pretty much soaked from head to toe. The rain was coming down actually quite hard and fast. "We should probably get to the car."

"Can we stay for another second?" I asked. Despite getting absolutely soaked I wanted to stay for another moment. There something about standing in the rain that was so relaxing and soothing.

"Okay." He nodded. I closed my eyes and tilted my head back, extending my arms out a bit. I let the water run down my face as I stood there.

When I opened my eyes Alex was staring right at me. I couldn't tell what he was thinking but his eyes were shining. His dark hair was sticking to his face and water was sticking to his long eyelashes. The rain droplets ran down his face and down his jawline. He literally looked like he was posing for pictures in a magazine.

We continued on staring at one another, not saying a word. I don't know what it was but something seemed to pass between us. I couldn't tear my eyes away from his and he didn't seem keen on doing so either.

Everything around us faded. The rain became almost nonexistent as the two of us took a step towards one another. There was this pull inside of me that wasn't going to let me look away; not that I wanted to anyways.

Looking into Alex's grey eyes made me feel safe. Made me feel wanted. I could drown in those eyes and I wouldn't regret it.I silently hoped Alex was feeling what I was and by the way his eyes flickered all over my face he did.

One second we were standing a foot away and the next I was pressed up against his front, his hands coming up to cup the side of my face. We were both soaked to the bone but neither of us cared.

Alex looked back and forth between my eyes as if searching for something. I'm not sure what he was searching for but he must have found what he wanted. With one last look at me he pulled me even closer with a hand on my lower back.

The moment our lips touched I melted. We've only kissed a few times but each one I have felt sparks all over my body. Alex's kisses made me feel....whole. Little by little each one seems to be mending pieces of me back together. And it was selfish of me because I never wanted him to stop.

One thing about Alex is he never pushed. He never pushed more for. After a moment he pulled away leaving me breathless. I was seconds away from pulling him back in for another kiss, regardless of us standing in the rain.

"We better go before you get sick." He spoke softly, his lips rubbing against mine as he talked.

Just one more. I silently pleaded.

Alex chuckled making me break out of the haze I was in. Did I just say that out loud?

"Yeah you did." He smiled. Damn it I did it again. My cheeks flamed. I literally just said that out loud for him to hear. Oh my god I'm embarrassing.

"Don't worry there is more where that came from." His voice seemed to get even lower as he spoke. Before I could say another word he softly pressed another kiss to my lips. It was a small peck but it was enough to make my heart soar.

"Come one lets get you out of the rain." Jerking myself out of my thoughts I let Alex grab my hand and tug me towards the car.

The rain seemed to becoming down even harder. The two of us ran hand in hand towards Noah's car. We practically threw ourselves inside and slammed the door behind us.

Laughing I wiped my eyes so I could see. When I could I found Liv, Derek and Noah staring at Alex and I. I was slightly embarrassed that I forgot they were waiting in the car for us.

Alex and I sat there still practically sitting on top of each other soaking wet as they stared.

"Um...do you have a towel by chance?" I asked meekly. Silently Olivia extended the blanket she had from before. It was slightly damp but it was better than nothing.

I grabbed it and brought it towards Alex and I to dry off a little. None of them said a word as we wiped our faces. Finally Noah shook his head.

"Hope that was worth it." Noah said while putting the car in reverse. I glanced over at Alex, a small grin on my face. It was definitely worth it.

The ride back to our houses Alex and I dried as much as we could. Both of our sweatshirts were completely soaked through, I had shorts on so my legs were easy to dry but Alex's pants were just as wet.

Despite the warm air in Noah's car I felt myself start to shiver from the cold water. At the time I didn't feel cold but now it was hitting. Thankfully though Noah had some good sense to drop me off first.

When he pulled up to my house I turned to Alex and hesitated. The whole way here I've silently been at war in wanting to ask Alex if he wanted to come inside and dry off, instead of making him wait till he got home. I didn't want to come off as too forward though. He probably had to go be with Harper anyways I couldn't ask him to come inside and hang out for a while.

But as he moved to open the door I found myself talking.

"Alex do you want....uh do you want to come in and dry off?" I stammered. I kept my gaze down towards his chest, not really wanting to see the rejection for my offer on his face.

He was silent for a moment which told me my answer. With my eyes casted down I didn't see the look Alex and Noah shared, almost like they were having a silent conversation. I also didn't see them both nod.

"You know what never mind you're busy. I'm just gonna go dry off." I said quickly, making the motion of wanting to get out. The fact that I could feel everyone else's eyes on us made this more embarrassing.

When Alex didn't move I finally looked up. He was already looking at me.

"Sure I'd like that." He finally answered. His answer made my head perk up. Really?

"O-okay great." I nodded.

"See you guys later." Alex said before getting out of the car. I peeked over my shoulder to Liv and found her grinning and giving me a thumbs up. With a small smile I quickly got out of the car.

With it still pouring we both ran for the porch before we could get even more wet. Behind us Noah backed up and took off down the road, leaving just me and Alex.

I fumbled slightly with the key under the mat before unlocking the door. Stumbling into the house I quickly shut the door to get away from the cold rain and breeze that was now picking up.

"Let me hurry and get the heat going." I said shivering as I headed to turn the heater on. "You can shower if you want. Probably warm up faster." I suggested once I came back.

Like the gentleman Alex was he was standing on the rug in front of the door so he didn't drip water all over.

"That's probably a good idea." I could tell he was trying to play off that he wasn't cold but I could see the slight shaking of his shoulders.

"Here." I gestured from him to follow me. Feeling just as cold I quickly lead Alex towards the bathroom hooked to my parents room around from the living room. The same room Lexi and Nico stayed in a few weeks ago.

"You can use this shower. There's towels hanging up and even shampoo and soap if you want to use it." I always made sure there was stuff in here in case my parents ever came home. They never did but I still did it.

"Thanks."

"Take however long you want, there's plenty of hot water." Feeling slight awkwardness coming in I took a step back. I better go before I say or do anything stupid.

"I'm just gonna go shower to. If you get out first just make yourself at home." With one last smile I turned and high tailed it out of the bathroom, leaving Alex to himself.

While I hurried up the stairs to my own bathroom I tried not to think about the fact that Alex was about to be naked in my house. Naked! I don't know why my mind immediately went for that thought but it did. I needed some serious help.

Pushing all thoughts of Alex to the back of my mind I made my way into my bathroom shivering. I needed a shower asap. I quickly took my wet clothes off while the water got warm before stepping in.

The moment the warm water hit my skin I let out a sigh. Standing out in the rain seemed like a good idea at the time but it clearly wasn't. I'd be lucky if I didn't get a cold honestly. Knowing my luck though I would.

I stayed under the water longer than I should have as I warmed up. Once I was in I didn't want to get out. But knowing that Alex was probably downstairs waiting for me I forced myself out of the warm shower.

I made quick work of putting on a pair of sweatpants and an old sweatshirt of my brothers. I probably looked homeless but I couldn't bring myself to car too much. Leaving my wet hair down I went back downstairs.

Coming into the living I paused mid-step at the sight in front of me. Standing in the living room with only a towel wrapped around his waist was Alex. He was looking around so he didn't notice me.

My eyes had a mind of their own as they took him in. I've seen him shirtless before, in Noah's pool, but here he only had a towel on and it was hanging dangerously low on his hips.

I ran my eyes over his back, taking note of the muscles that were there and the way they rippled when he moved. I could see the tattoo on his ribs but from where I was standing I still couldn't tell what it was.

I must have made a noise for Alex turned to face me. He gave me an amazing view of his abs and it literally took everything in me to look at his face not his abs.

"Sorry I don't have any clothes..." Alex trailed off.

"Oh god I'm so sorry." I face palmed. I forgot he didn't have any clothes to change into unless he wanted to put his wet ones on. "There's still stuff in my brothers room."

I lead him up the stairs towards my brothers room, trying my hardest not to focus on the fact that he was behind me practically naked. Just one move and the towel would fall from his hips. Biting my lip I shook my head to get rid of the dirty thoughts popping into my head. Now is not the time Riley.

"There should be something in here." I went over to my brother's dresser. He left behind quite a bit of clothes and there was no way I was going to get rid of it. Plus when he comes home for the holiday's he was going to need them.

"Here these should fit." I tossed Alex a pair of grey sweats and then a plain black t-shirt. Alex and Trent were basically the same size. Alex was more lean but the clothes should fit.

"I'll...I'll let you change while I put our clothes in the dryer." Not meeting his eyes I quickly moved around him. I'm not sure why but when I was halfway down the hallway I found myself backtracking.

It was like my legs had a mind of their own and no matter what I did I couldn't get them to stop. I came to a stop outside of my brother's bedroom, the bedroom door opened just enough that I could peek in.

I slowly peeked my head around the corner and gulped. Alex was pulling the sweatpants up but I caught a glimpse of the top of his butt. The fact that I almost saw his ass made me jerk my body backwards.

What the hell was I doing! I wasn't going to become a peeking tom on Alex! I was being complete weirdo right now. Mentally yelling at myself I grabbed my wet clothes from my room and went to grab Alex's.

Riley have some self-control! You don't go peeking in on guys changing, makes you no better than some guys. It was just a moment of weakness. My inner voice replied. Moment of weakness my ass.

Huffing at myself I threw our clothes into the dryer and turned it on. By time I came back out Alex was coming down the stairs.

For clothes that weren't his he sure wore them well. His hands were in the pockets of the sweatpants and for some reason it made his shoulders seem wider. Swallowing thickly I made myself talk.

"Feel better?"

"Much. Thanks for letting me use your shower."

"Couldn't let you sit around in soaking wet clothes. It was my fault you got wet anyways." I shrugged.

"It's okay you can't control the rain."

"You don't know, maybe I can." I teased.

"So a water bender then?" At this words my eyes widened.

"You know Avatar the Last Airbender?" I questioned.

"You do?"

"Best series ever!" I gushed. I haven't ever met someone who knew the series. Most were clueless when I spoke about it.

"Use to watch it all the time. I once had all the episodes taped on the TV but they were deleted when it broke and we got a new one."

"Well lucky for you I bought the entire series a few months back." I boasted smugly. It took me ages to find the entire series on disc's. I even went to three different Walmart's to find them and I finally did.

"Would you...uh would you want to watch a few?" I hesitantly asked. Just because he showered here doesn't mean he was gonna stay. I couldn't just assume he didn't have other plans.

"We could get some snacks and blankets and watch a few unless your busy and have other plans with the guys or Noah or Harper which is totally fine to." I rattled off in one long breath.

"Freckles," Alex chuckled. "I'd love to."

"Really? You don't have any other plans?" I tangled my hands in the bottom of my sweatshirt.

"Other than to be here with you, no." He had a soft smile on his face as he spoke. I swear he always knew what to say. "But there has to be popcorn."

I found myself grinning so wide I thought for a second my face would split in half.

"How about you get some blankets from the hall while I get started on the popcorn." I suggested. While he went to do that I headed for the kitchen, a giddy feeling swarming in my chest.

I made quick work of grabbing the popcorn from the cabinet and popping it into the microwave. While that was going I set about finding some other snacks. Right now I was grateful that I always grabbed snacks from the store every time I went. Can't ever have too many. Especially after the girls and I ate most of it the night we had a sleepover.

I had quite the selection of snacks on the counter when Alex walked back in.

"Blanket are on the couch. Anything you need in here?" He asked. With my head in the cabinet for a bowl I turned over my shoulder and answered.

"You can get some butter melting if you want." I told him where to find a cup and butter in the fridge while I tried to find the perfect bowl for us.

"How did you get into Avatar the Last Airbender?" Alex asked as the microwave beeped for the popcorn. He switched it out for the butter and leaned against the counter.

"Trent and I found it on Netflix back in the day. And I mean when Netflix was only through the mail. We would have to wait a week for a new disc and it took us all summer long to watch it entire thing." I laughed at the memory. Ever single summer we would get it and watch it over and over.

(This is a true story with my brothers and I. We spent every single summer watching this show. Kinda shows how old I am with Netflix only being through the mail :D )

"How about you?" I asked, putting the popcorn in the bowl.

"Pretty sure it was freshman year of high school, Noah and I were hanging out one afternoon after soccer practice. We turned it on some channel and it was on. We ended up watching hours and hours of it."

"No one ever knows about it." The microwave beeped and Alex handed the melted butter over to me. "I use to try and get Mitch to watch it but he said it was a kids show. He pretty much belittled me for liking it. I then stopped talking about it around him."

"He's the worlds biggest dick." Alex muttered.

"Definitely the worlds biggest dick." I agreed. Alex looked at me with a raised eyebrow, almost like he was surprised I just said that.

"What?"

"Nothing." He shook his head but he had a small grin on his face. Instead of pressing it I mixed the popcorn.

"You grab the snacks." I instructed grabbing the popcorn and a few of the snacks. With the two of us we made our way back to the living room, placing all the stuff on the table.

Excited to finally have someone watch Avatar with me I grabbed the first disc to put in. I happily took a seat on the couch, bringing one of the blankets onto my lap. I was very aware of Alex sitting so close to me that if I just moved an inch we would be touching.

"You ready for the best opening to a tv show?" I said as it started.

"Bring it on." Alex laughed. Sharing a grin we watched the opening to Avatar. From the corner of my eye I saw Alex mouthing the words along with the TV. I tried to hold back a giggle but I couldn't help it.

"What?"

"You are mouthing the words." I laughed.

"Am not!" He tried to defend.

"You so are. It's okay I'm not judging." I wasn't....okay maybe I was.

"You just watch the show." He nudged me with his elbow. I knew he wasn't angry by the quirk of his lip.

"Fine fine." I fought back a grin as I turned back to the tv. The two of us kept glancing at each other and sharing a grin.

As soon as the actual show started all our focus went to the tv. Every once in a while our hands were brush against each other as we reached for popcorn at the same time but neither of us said a word.

Before I knew it the popcorn was long gone and most of our snacks eaten. We were currently on the second to last episode of season 1 and somehow I was pressed against Alex's side. My head was laying on his chest while his arm was draped around me keeping me pressed against him.

I was literally so comfortable I probably could have fallen asleep, but every few minutes Alex would rub his hand up and down the side of my hip. When he first did it, it took everything in me not to jump. He wasn't even touching any skin yet it felt like mine was on fire.

There was nothing sexual about it either. It was so comforting that I never wanted him to stop. It was crazy that I felt more with that little bit of contact than I ever did with Mitch. Even when he was kissing me I didn't feel like this.

I never wanted this to end. I wanted to stay right here with Alex and never move. I knew it would come to an end eventually but for now I was soaking it all up. Taking a mental picture so I could always remember,

Time seemed to go by fast and soon we finished the full season and it was now well into the afternoon. I let out an embarrassingly loud yawn. Alex's chest rumbled under my head.

We stayed like that for a bit longer. The credits to Avatar playing in the background but neither of us made a motion to move. As much as I wanted to lay here I knew if I didn't move I would fall asleep on him.

I eventually forced myself to sit up, stretching as I moved away. My eyes drifted towards Alex as he stood up, stretching his arms up. The bottom of his shirt lifted up revealing the v-line that would make any girl drool at the sight. God he looked good.

I quickly averted my eyes before he could catch me staring like a weirdo. Clearing my throat I stood up as well.

"That was...fun."

"It was. Forgot how good the finale was."

"I'd so be a water bender."

"Really? Fire bender all the way." Alex shook his head.

"Didn't you listen to the fire master guy. Fire can destroy." I pointed out.

"Well as long as you are there with water I'll be fine." I found myself grinning. I'd take that.

I went about cleaning up the popcorn bowl and wrappers when Alex's phone rang. Letting him have some privacy I went to the kitchen. When I came back out Alex was pocketing his phone. He turned to me with a slightly guilty expression.

"I'm sorry I have to go pick up Harper."

"Oh no don't be sorry. I completely understand." I waved him off. I totally understood.

"I'll text you later though?" He said it more of a question. I smiled and nodded.

"Yeah. Thank you for watching Avatar with me." I played with the sleeves of my sweatshirt.

"Anytime. We still have two more seasons to go." There was a promise in his voice as he said that. I nodded enthusiastically.

"Tell Harper hi for me." Not wanting to keep him any longer I followed him to the door. Right before I opened the door I remembered his clothes. "Oh wait, hold on!"

I quickly ran to the laundry room. I had completely forgotten his clothes. Grabbing all of them I set aside my pants and top, grabbing both of his sweatshirts and pants. Taking a moment to fold them I carried them in my arms back to the front door.

"Here you go." Alex paused for a moment as he grabbed his clothes. I watched confused as he pulled the red sweatshirt he let me wear earlier.

"Here." He extended it towards me. "You look better in than I do." He sent me a smirk that made my heart flutter.

On the outside I gently took the sweatshirt from him but inside I was screaming like a little girl. I've always wanted a sweatshirt from a guy. My older brother's didn't count.

Surprisingly Mitch never let me have any of his. It was a bit warm to be wearing one when we were 'dating' but he never let me wear anything of his. Never once offered. When I did go to his house and see his closet he never said a word about it. So this was my first sweatshirt from a guy.

Knowing I was blushing I brought the fabric to my chest.

"Thank you." I beamed.

Opening the front door I glanced around him seeing that it was still raining outside. Just as I opened my mouth to ask how he was going to get home Noah's car pulled into the driveway. Should have known. These two can never be apart.

"Be careful."

"I will." Before I could blink he stepped towards me and placed a kiss on my forehead. My eyes closed on my own and slowly flickered open when he stepped away.

"Bye freckles." With a flash of a grin Alex turned on his heels and ran out the door towards Noah's car. I stood in the doorway with a stupid grin plastered on my face as I watched them driveway, clenching his sweatshirt in my hand.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I don't know about you guys but I'm living for Noah and Riley's friendship. They honestly have the cutest friendship at this point. So I wouldn't be surprised if that shows up more and more as we go :D

Now....how about those Rilex moments!?!? Is anyone else swooning at Alex and Riley. Ugh they are seriously so cute together. I'm going to give you guys a little heads up....the next chapter its going to be all Rilex and quite possibly a date! AHHH!

I am sorry about the later update as well. Went through a little lull of writing but I ended up spending literally 4 hours writing yesterday and I still wasn't finished. I was going to split this chapter in half but I thought what the hell! No one can tell me what to do! So here you guys go. A 10k word chapter.....yeah it's that long. 

Anyways, I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter as much as I did! I hope you guys are all being safe and healthy. Please be smart and don't go around being a Karen about things such as wearing a mask. Put one on to save YOUR LIFE and OTHERS. Don't be an idiot!

Love you guys so much! Thank you guys for all the love!! <3 <3

P.S The reason I put Avatar The Last Airbender in here is cause I'm re-watching it for the hundred thousandths time and ugh its so good. I always wished I could be a water bender. 

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-Ken