Notes:

Additional Cast:

Grey Damon as Ashton Sanders

Keiynan Lonsdale as Vincent Brown

Valorie Curry as Anna Matthews

Elizabeth Lail as Andrea McKay

Holland Roden as Chloe Rivers

Vanessa's POV

I just can't believe the amount of work I have to do for the class I just attended. I never expected Interactive Narratives to be so demanding. It was really interesting though. I guess it comes at a price. I get out of class, still trying to fit my things in my bag, when I spot Robin at the hallway looking at her phone. She is wearing a black coat and black jeans with combat boots.

"Hey Robin!" I shout at her since I can't run over with all the things I am holding. Either I will drop them or I will slip.

"Hey cutie, how are you?" she greets me with a smile and grabs a book that was about to fall. She is so sweet, I haven't seen since her since, well, last year technically.

"Thank you! I always bring too much at class." I giggle. "How are you? Happy New Year in person, I guess." I go for a hug.

"I am splendid! I had a blast this time, even though you guys were away. Maybe next year we can be all together for the holidays! How about you?"

"I am glad to hear that! Yeah, we had such a wonderful time on Thanksgiving all of us together, we should rearrange something like that." I tell her with a smile. "I had fun, charged my batteries and all, and here I am ready for the new semester!" I say as I finally fit all my things in my back. "I saw Sophie during the weekend. And during the holidays. She is really happy, Robin! You make her really happy!"

"I do, huh?" she says and her face lights up in seconds. "Well, between you and me, she makes me very happy too, she is absolutely amazing. I am the lucky one." She smiles brightly tucking a lock behind her ear. "What's your resolution for this year, Vee? Got anything planned?" She asks next.

"Nah, just the usual." I tell her as we keep on walking down the hallway. "Like college stuff and family related, like I am determined to call my parents more and not panic over my classes. Or at least panic less. Did you have class or are you going to class now? "

"Just finished actually, I am heading home now for lunch and then to Sophie's for a while. You?" Robie is seriously OTP.

"Tell her I said hi." I raise an eyebrow at her and she chuckles. "I just got out of class as well and I am heading over the paper's office."

"Oh, let me walk with you there, it's on my way." She says and mentions for me to walk first as we step outside of the building.

"Oh thank you, I could use some company." Robin is so nice. "How is Sam? And Nicky? I haven't seen them since Sophie's party which was a huge success by the way!" I give her a thumbs up to congratulate her.

"Oh, don't remind me of Sam, she got a bit meaner since the holidays. She complains a lot about being left out, while really, she is the one spending all her time with Nicks. Sophie told you about our sleepover, right?" She says playfully.

"I guess that happens when you are totally in love but at the same time you don't want your friends to feel left out. She is probably struggling to keep the balance she wants to and probably that's why she got a bit meaner. You guys are best friends, I am sure you can find a way to get the best of both worlds." I shrug. "Oh! And by that I mean your friendship and your relationships with Sophie and Nicky. I hope it sounded like that at first, sometimes I just say things that can have some kind of subtext." I chortle awkwardly, while Ro laughs out loud.

"Don't worry it was confusing, but I got it, fear not. And don't tell Sam but I would rather spend my time with Soph than with her, she is rude and mean and loud and violent when she dislikes things... right now she dislikes Quantico... I pay for it." She continues laughing.

"I think it's just because Sam is such a passionate person. You can't tame her! She will say and do whatever she wants to." I remark laughing as well.

"Well, she is only at her best when with Nicky. That girl is a hero." She comments as we turn left.

"You're just exaggerating a little!" I say raising my eyebrows when I see Ashton walking just some steps away from us. "Ashton!" I call his name and he turns around. His lips curve upwards the moment he sees us. He is wearing a black jacket along with a grey sweater and jeans.

"Hello Vanessa. Robin." He greets us after he approaches us.

"Hey, Ashton how are you?" Ro greets him politely.

"I am good, just getting back on track with anything campus related. And not." He says with a smirk and looks at me. "How are you, Robin?"

"I am doing great, but I am running late, I would love to catch up with you guys, but I should get going... sorry." She says apologetically.

"Okay then. Um, I'll see you soon and-" I begin to talk but she goes off immediately greeting us with blowing a kiss.

Ashton and I stare at each other for a while for no reason and then we both burst into laughter. It is kind of strange I admit but it feels so comfortable when Ashton and I just look into each other's eyes without saying a single word. Silence can be awkward, frightening and full of dark secrets. None of the above happens with Ashton. It is quite the opposite actually. I believe his eyes are so unique and hide such a power that can easily make you forget all of your problems. His magnetic green eyes reflect perfectly his beautiful soul and are capable to warm your own within seconds. Just with one look, no words needed.

"Why don't we make a little stop before the paper?" He stretches his hand and links it with mine.

"Okay, where are we going?" I ask intrigued. We walk for a little longer without him giving me any information which makes me more curious.

"Here!" He points at my favorite coffee shop and we get in.

"This place has even more people than in the morning if that's possible!" I remark seeing the endless queue.

"That won't be a problem. Come on." He leads me to the side of the counter where Chloe places the cookies in the front. Chloe rocks! She works here part-time and studies mathematics at SCU. Her secret talent is that she is an excellent baker. She makes the best cookies and since I have tasted them all we have bonded due to our common love for everything that is sweet. Me, as a faithful consumer and her, as an incredible wonder maker. She has big green eyes and her hair is apricot, usually wrapped in a ponytail as now.

"Hey, Ashton!" She greets him with a beam.

"Good morning, Chloe. What do you have for us?" He nods to my side.

"Oh, hi Vanessa!" she gives me a warm smile and then notices Ashton's hand in mine. She shakes her head and continues. "You're lucky. These just came out of the oven!" She says with pride. She holds a gigantic bowl with colorful cookies.

"Mmm, these look good. And smell even better!" I giggle. "Let me breathe it in!" I close my eyes and get lost in the smells. "It's like I'm in heaven! Vanilla and caramel?" I sigh.

"You got it right!" Chloe claps her hands to congratulate me for guessing right. "I also did a little experimenting, you should try some of these too." She puts some blue star-shaped cookies in the paper bag along with my favorite ones with caramel. "And some hazelnut cookies for you, Ashton." She adds a bunch of those as well.

"You never forget it." Ashton raises his eyebrows.

"No, I never do and I never will." She hands him the bag with the cookies. "Can I get you a coffee as well? I didn't see you in the morning."

"Yeah, I went to the dean's office before class so I didn't have time to pass by. I would certainly drink a coffee right now. Thank you, Chloe. You Vanessa?" He questions.

"I already had one. I am still not the coffee lover type of person." I shrug. "Thank you though."

"Okay, give me one minute and I'll bring you the best double espresso to get you through the day!" Chloe rushes to the coffee machine.

"Chloe is the best!" I comment.

"Yes, she is." Ashton confirms and approaches the counter when he sees her coming.

"There you go!" She passes him the cup. "Oh, no Ashton for the millionth time, you don't have to pay me!" She says with a strict tone as Ashton brings out his wallet.

"And for the millionth time I am telling you this ain't happening." He insists. "If you want to, you cannot charge us for not waiting for our turn though." He whispers.

"You know you don't have to do that." She looks at him annoyed.

"Chloe, we need a hand over here!" Someone calls her from inside.

"Coming!" She yells back. "It was nice to see you, guys. Have a wonderful day!" She fixes her ponytail and leaves.

"That was so nice of her. Getting our order done while there was so many people waiting." I say as Ashton opens the coffee shop's door and we get out.

"She doesn't have a choice. I know her since she was a baby." Ashton smirks.

"Really? You grew up together?" I had no idea.

"Yes, Chloe's brother Lucas is my best friend since the first day at kindergarten. Chloe is a year younger than us but she always found a way to snoop around. They are both like family. Lucas is in NYU so it's just the two of us now. I keep an eye on her." He reveals their connection to me.

"That's really sweet of you. She's a lovely girl." Ashton always takes care of everyone really.

"Yes. So now you can skip the line and go directly to Chloe as well. I didn't know you knew each other." He tells me as we walk to the office.

"Oh, no, I don't want to get her in trouble. Plus, it is kind of fun waiting at the line and hearing everybody complaining and fighting to get their coffee first." I chuckle.

"You won't get her in trouble. As I saw, she likes you already." Ashton opens the bag and gestures to me to take a cookie.

"I like her too. And her cookies." I say after taking a bite.

"I know." He throws a cookie in the air and opens his mouth to catch it.

"Wow!" I clap my hands impressed.

"Your turn now." He proposes.

"I know I am going to be terrible at this but okay." I stop walking and cut a small slice from my cookie. I toss it up in the air but it unsuccessfully lands on my forehead.

"Are you okay?" Ashton asks me concerned.

"Yeah, just a little embarrassed." I giggle and he joins me.

By the time we get at the office, his brief lesson has not achieved its goal but it had made us both laugh hysterically.

"Woah, what have I missed?" Anna greets us from the front office.

"He..." I begin to speak but I'm unable to complete my sentence.

"No, she..." Ashton is at the same state as me and Anna looks at us confused.

"You seem like two crazy little aliens who are laughing without a reason but I do admit you two get more adorable day by day." She says tic tacking her pen on the desk.

"Hey, Ashton!" Ian who writes the economic column of the paper pats him on the shoulder. "Can I talk to you for a minute? I am having a hard time with my article this month."

"Sure, let's go to my office. See you later, ladies." Ashton gives us a nod.

"I'm still waiting to find out what the dean wanted you for!" Anna yells as they disappear at the hallway.

"Oh, yeah! I totally forgot to ask Ashton about it. Is it something serious?" I ask worried.

"I have no idea. If he didn't tell you, it' probably nothing." Anna shrugs.

"I guess so." Anna opens her mouth to cut me off but I continue. "I am going over to Andrea. We said we will think a way to organize this cupid love messages idea of yours for Valentine's Day."

"Great! Thanks, girls! I just had the idea, you go make it possible." She waves her hand allowing me to go.

Andrea is sitting at her desk by the window with Vincent. He is holding her hand and she is giggling. They are so cute!

"Hello, Vanessa." Vincent greets me. "I'll let you two alone. You have a lot of work today." He leaves a kiss on Andrea's cheek and goes to the photocopier.

"Aw, I'm in love!" Andrea sighs with sparkling eyes. "Let's make other people fall in love too!" She grabs me by the arm and makes me sit next to her.

After a 3 hour long discussion examining all the possible scenarios, we decide against the old fashion way with a box in the middle of the campus where everybody can be seen and prefer the modern one via internet. We will make a platform on the paper's website where everyone can leave their love message anonymously. Anton, who is our IT guy, will take care of that and Andrea and I will check on the messages under Anna's guidance. We can't publish anything inappropriate of course. The platform will be ready tomorrow and we have almost 2 weeks till Valentine's Day to spread it to the world. Arya,who does the design for the paper, agreed on making some posters to grab the campus' attention. I hope people get involved.

"Guys, it's 4pm for God's sake. I should be the only one in here." Ashton scolds u as he comes out of his office.

"The gang isn't going to leave you, boss." Anna tells him. It's only her, Vincent, Andrea and me now. "Who's in the mood for pizza? I have a free meal today." She opens her drawer and gets out a million things before she finds the delivery leaflet.

"You know you could just order online, right? It's 2017." Vincent teases her.

"What can I say, I am the traditional type." She gives him a fake smile. "So are you guys in?"

"In one condition" I stand up and go near Anna's desk with Andrea. "It is going to be our treat." I point a finger at Ashton warning him.

"Deal." Anna picks up the phone immediately.

"I won't argue with you. It seems like a fight I'm going to lose for sure. If I haven't already." Ashton takes a step closer.

"Exactly" I pat him on the chest with the same finger trying to look bossy.
"Does anybody have any specific preference?" Anna yells holding up the phone.
"Nope. My simple demand is that there is at least one pizza with no pickles." I raise a finger at her too.
"No pickles then." Ashton says in a serious tone and I chuckle.

"It's taking you forever, Anna. If you had ordered online, the pizzas would have been here already." Vincent sits next to her and rests his legs on her desk.

"Shut up." Anna shakes them down. "Oh, no, I wasn't talking to you, sir!" She apologizes on the phone and Vincent puts his legs again on her desk. "Knock it off." She murmurs and goes on with the order.

"He is such a teaser, isn't he?" Andrea looks at her boyfriend with puppy eyes.

"He definitely is." Ashton makes a grimace and I hold my laugh.

"Thank you, yes. Yes. Yes. Bye!" Anna puts down the phone dramatically. "Are you an idiot?" She pushes Vincent's legs from her desk. One more time. "Tell me, seriously Andrea, what is it that makes him so attractive to you?"

"And so it begins." Ashton whispers in my ear. We sit on the couch in front of Anna's desk ready for the show.

"Is it his great looks?" Anna starts counting with her fingers as Vincent shows off his arm muscles. "It is more than clear that he hasn't hit the gym since the Stone age." Vincent frowns and Anna shakes her head in disapproval. "Could it be his great sense of style?" Vincent lifts up his sweater's sleeves with pride. "'Cause even a 3 year old would know that all these colors don't fit together." Vincent opens his mouth ready to speak but Anna chimes in. "Oh, no, wait!" She opens her eyes widely. "It must be because he is a true gentleman. With dirty boots. Which he rests on my desk." Anna pats him on the head while we, Andrea, Ashton and I watch them amused.

"Hey, I want him in one piece!" Andrea comes to the rescue.

"She really overdid herself this time." Ashton remarks laughing.

"I would agree on that." I can't stop laughing either.

"Oh, God!" He tries to catch his breath. "This laughter could count as exercise."

"Yeah, like you need one." I point at his abs. Oh, no. I didn't just do that.

"You think I don't?" He sits up and raises an eyebrow at me.

"Of course you don't." He smirks. "I mean from what I have seen, you..." I just made this worse.

"I wanted to say that I didn't pay much attention when you were...um, you know...not wearing your shirt..." He smirks again. "I didn't! I just happen to notice that you have a good body structure. You look um... healthy. Yeah, you look very healthy." I look away trying to find something to distract myself.

"You know..." He touches my chin and makes me face him. "I wouldn't mind. If you took a pick." He looks down and smiles. "You got blushed again. Do I make you feel uncomfortable?" His voice is soft. I nod my head no. Of course he doesn't, I just get embarrassed talking about this kind of things. "You're so..."

We hear a cough and we turn around to see Vincent and Anna looking annoyed at Andrea.

"Seriously, Andrea? You had to cough now?" Anna eyerolls.

"Babe, we disturbed them now." Vincent tells Andrea and she gives him an apologetic look.

Ashton takes his hand from my chin and rests his head on my shoulder laughing.

"What were you three doing exactly?" I cross my arms and narrow my eyebrows.

"Saved by the bell!" Anna runs to the door to take the pizzas. Andrea sits on Vincent's lap. I look at him intensely but he just shrugs.

"The food is here!" Anna says behind the pizza boxes. "Vanessa, make some room on my desk. I have no third hand."

"Yeah, sure." I gather all her things on the side.

"Aah, I can hear my stomach growling!" Vincent opens the first box and goes for a slice.
"Manners." Anna slaps his hand. "Ladies first."

"Anna, give him a break." Andrea giggles.

"I am working for you." Anna tells her with full mouth.

"This is so good." I say taking a bite. "Come on, Ashton. Vincent."

"Are we allowed to eat now?" Ashton asks smirking and I pat him on the shoulder.

"You have no problem, boss. We all saw what you hide under there. You should practically walk around shirtless, cupid is right." Anna speaks boldly as usual and I choke. "Back with the choking, cupid? Aw, aren't you adorable."

"I'll think about it." Ashton raises his eyebrows and shakes me with his shoulder.

"Can we stop thinking about Ashton being naked and just eat?" I exhale.

"Oooh!" Anna and Vincent scream synchronized while Andrea looks at them puzzled.

"So this is what you were doing? Thinking how good Ashton looks naked? You never stop to surprise me, little cupid." Anna tells me in a serious tone and tries to hide her smirk with a napkin.

"I was not thinking about that!" I yell offended.

"Yeah, you weren't thinking about it because you already know he looks good, you have seen him naked. Or to be specific half-naked. Correct me if I'm wrong." Anna frowns and I hide my face into my hands.

"I think that's enough." Ashton laughs and covers me with his arm. "Why don't we just eat?" He whispers and squeezes my arm. I slowly move my hands from my face. I know I am still blushed and more embarrassed than ever. The others seem to have forgotten about it already since they are now talking about Andrea's Christmas trip to the Alps. After a while, I join their conversation too, asking how difficult skiing is. Ashton reassures me it's no big deal and promises to teach me whenever we get the chance to. He keeps his hand wrapped around me until we finish with our food and get up to clean the mess.

"Do you want me to drive you to the dorms?" Ashton offers as we take out the garbage.

"No, thank you. I think I'd rather walk." I reply to him.

"I'll walk with you, cupid. I almost ate half a pizza by myself. It will help get rid of the calories." Anna exhales.

"And I ate almost a whole pizza by myself." I chuckle. "I think it's the best choice. I'll see you tomorrow. I'll come by the office to check how things go with the cupid messages and the platform." I tell Ashton.

"Maybe we can place the posters around campus too? If they are ready." Andrea suggests and I give her an approving nod.

"Tomorrow, guys." Vincent takes Andrea's hand and they walk to his car.

"Okay then. I'll see you tomorrow." Ashton tells me and caresses my cheek. He surprises me with his gesture but I can't say it makes me feel uncomfortable. "You too, Anna." He adds still staring at me and I smile at him.

"You remembered me? I am moved." Anna raises up her eyebrows. "Let's go little cupid."

She grabs me by the hand and in about 15 minutes we are at the dorms. I am really glad all she wanted to talk about was her diet and her work out sessions. You never know with Anna. Not to mention she has all these theories about me and Ashton on which I have no comment to make.

Sophie's POV

To Vanessa :-) : be there in 15'

I enter the Supermarket and head straight to the chips and cookies aisle. I pick popcorn for me, the healthier of them, and chips and marshmallows for Vanessa. Since Christmas we have been closer. I went to her house 3 times during the holidays and she came to mine twice. We had dinner, her mom cooks really well and her dad is very polite and funny, like my dad, and she found my brother cute and adorable. I know we haven't hung out much, since I spent my time with Ro, but I have too much on my plate and unfortunately some people will be left out. But I will try to make it up to her, sooner or later. Our schedules are heavy and sometimes I don't even see Joss or even Ro, but the secret to any healthy relationship, romantic or not, is mutual understanding and effort from both sides, so even though my schedule couldn't afford a hung out, I decided to spend my time with Vanessa and told Robin we could meet tomorrow.

I pay for the food and beverages and check the message Ro sent me telling me that she is having a sleepover with Sam and I tell her goodnight and send her kisses.

Once out, I get to my car and head to the dorms, eye rolling every time guys eye me like horndogs. Thank God I don't live in the dorms, it's a gross place...but also nice to have a small place to share with another person.

Anyway, I find the girls' room and knock gently waiting for Vee to open the door for me, and I momentarily wonder if my outfit is appropriate. Should I take my shoes off? Huh....

"Hello, Sophie!" Vanessa greets me with a huge beam on her face and lifts her hands up dramatically in the air. "Ready for our movie night?" She is wearing black tights with... Is that Mickey Mouse on them? I guess it is him indeed. I never watched Mickey but I know him. A white hoodie completes her outfit and her hair is tied up in a loose bun.

"Hey Vee! Yes, I am more than ready! I brought snacks for us." I tell her bringing the bag into view. I step inside and sit on her bed.

Now, not that I am much of a snob, but I always enjoyed un-spacey rooms with big comfortable beds, so dorm rooms would be too small for me, but surprisingly I feel really homey here, and it's me we are talking about.

"Thank you so much for these!" Vanessa tells me and shakes enthusiastically the bag she is holding before taking a peek in it. "Woah, I was out of marshmallows if that could ever be possible, thank you so much, Sophie!" She immediately takes them out and eats one. "Mmm, I just love them... Anyway, I have bought a variety of different chocolate stuff as well. How are you?"

"Oh, I didn't know what chocolate things to get, that's why I bought chips." I say shrugging. "But I am doing ok, a bit tired, but ok. You? Where is Alice?" I ask, noticing her bed and pillows.

"Chips is a must for a movie night! I think I am more of a chips person than a popcorn person." She gives me a thumbs up. "Though at the same time I do prefer sweet over salty. And marshmallows over anything!" She giggles. I never thought that a conversation about sweets and chips would ever be amusing, but it is. "We are going to have so much fun! You'll be okay, it was just our first week back, like officially. I can say I am a little tired as well but we will get back on track." I nod, hoping so. I can't even count the hours I have spent at the library so far. "Alice is with Nina. They had a class together and I guess they hanged out afterwards. Have you met Nina? She is so lovely!" oh, yes, Nina.

"Um, no I haven't but I know of her...she seems too loud for my liking. But Matt is a very good guy."

"On the other hand, I haven't met Matt but I know of him. They are such a cute couple! Well, from what Alice has told me. And Nina too. You will like her I am sure." Vanessa insists with a smile. "What's Robin doing tonight? I hope I didn't ruin any plan of yours." She asks me anxious.

"No, that's ok, we both decided to spend the day with our friends. She feels bad for not spending time with Sam, and well, we haven't hung out since Christmas, plus Sam was really loud about Robin being whipped and not seeing her as much during the holiday, even though they pretty much spent them together. She guilt tripped her." I inform her and shrug, remembering Sam's text, Ro showed me this morning.

Morning, whipped face, you are ditching Ford today, and that's an order.

That's part of the message. The rest was way too vulgar to be read in the morning.

"That's not so polite but I guess she felt kinda left out so that's why she acted that way." Vanessa states shrugging as well. "Are you two on good terms now?"

"I wouldn't say so, but she is trying to like me." I shrug.

Suddenly the door opens and Alice gets in with force. She's wearing jean colour tights with a gray long sweater until her thighs, brown tall boots and a beige coat.

"Hey Vanessa you can't believe what- Oh hey Sophie!" Alice greets me with a confused smile.

"Hi Alice, Sophie is here for a visit! We are about to watch a movie!" Vanessa informs her about our plans and then looks at me with lips protruding.

Umm... well, that's unexpected and out of our planning, but I guess she could join us. Now how am I supposed to catch up with Vee just the two of us? Not that Alice is not welcomed, but still, I don't know her that well. I have to be on point now. I fix my clothes and sit properly on the bed.

"Yes, um, you can join us, it's your room. How was your Christmas?"

"Thank you!" she smiles towards me. "I had a great time! What about you?"

"It was good, thank you, I hang out with Joss and Vee a lot. Got my batteries charged!" I say and give her thumbs up. So lame.

"Good! Now that you've mentioned him! How is Joseph?" she asks and she plays with her hair edges, looking at them in an examining way. Oh, what if she doesn't want me here?

"He is doing ok, haven't seen him much to be honest. God knows where he is right now." Thank God he is not home often, since the past few days he has been blasting a weird song on and on again and it pisses me off.. The words are not english, and I guess they are italian. Why on earth would he listen to an italian song? Makes no sense, plus the song is not to my taste. I prefer french ones.

"I guess he must be hanging out with his harem somewhere. I just hope these one have manners." she says indifferently. "Anyway, the reason I came earlier is that Nina ditched me to go to Matt's apartment. I was aware she will go there, but she couldn't hold herself for one more hour if you know what I mean. She has to be on top of him 24/7!" Alice exasperates and sits on her bed with force, while she throws her bag at its side.

The image of Nina on top of sweet Matt weirds me out. It's weird knowing things about people you haven't met yet. What if the image strikes me when I meet Nina and I make a face or something?

"Too much info, Alice." Vanessa raises an eyebrow at her and chuckles.

"We're all women here and besides I miss sex too, but I don't act like that! And I have quite some time to... you know..." Alice exclaims nervously,moving her hands to every possible direction.

Ummmm... is there like an unwritten rule that says it is that ok to talk about sex 10 minutes into the convo? What is it with people and sex talk? I wish I was that open about it too though.

"Alice, you know my opinion on this one. You should wait and when the moment is right and you have found obviously the one to... you know..." Vanessa gestures her hands in the air. "It will happen."

Another person that is not comfortable with the talk.

"I knoooooow." Alice huffs. "It just seems like I can't find this right one!" at times like these I feel glad I have Robin. She is my Ms.Right.

"Well, this kind of things are actually mostly a matter of luck. You will, don't worry about it. Sophie here has already found her perfect match so I guess now it's our turn!" Vanessa shakes my shoulder playfully and I look at the floor smiling.

"I agree with Vanessa. It's about finding the right one." I tell her. As of lately, I have been thinking about the big moment with Ro, but I guess I am still nervous about it.

"Thank you girls!" she smiles at us. "Sophie, you're the luckiest of us all. You have found someone you're head over heels for. I wish I can feel this way someday too." Alice says in a low voice. "So enough with the sentimental! Feed the hungry something spicy, Sophie. I need to know that at least some of us are having fun." she cheers up in a second while I choke with my saliva.

"Alice! You can't talk about it like that!" Vanessa exclaims nervously.

What is with this girl and personal questions? I look at her shrugging and I start playing with my fingers.

"I see...You haven't done anything yet,right? Is there something that holds you back?" Alice looks at me with a soft look, as she caught the awkward and hesitant vibe.

My mind tells me to not answer her. But the alternative will be talking to Joss about it, and let's face it...he will ruin the convo.

I look up at her and I take a deep breath.

"Umm...I wouldn't normally talk about it, but since we are all girls here...umm .. we have done some things... but not THAT."

I say swallowing hard. I hope she gets what the THAT means, I feel weird saying the word sex out loud. What the heck, I need to not be such a prude. We are all girls here, Vanessa is my friend and Alice... in a way.

"That's good. And normal. You know what they say, one step at a time." Vanessa remarks and rubs my arm. I give her a warm look, thankful. Vanessa gets it. Alice talks next.

"First, don't be scared to pronounce the word sex. It's natural and all people do it. Especially if you're in love. There's no better thing than this connection with someone you truly care about. Second, can you tell me why? I know we're not very close yet, but maybe I can help you since I am the most experienced in the room." Alice says in a soothing voice and I see Vanessa nod.

Well, that's true. During the holidays I learned that Vanessa is also unexperienced. How cool is that? I thought I was the only one! Ok, I am about to do something I wouldn't normally do... talk about private stuff to others besides Joss.

"well... I know I trust her and she is the one.... but what if I screw things up? I can be really awkward when I want to." I shrug.

"You won't do that. There's no chance." Vanessa tells me with a soft smile and sits up. "When you know you have found the one and you are in love with that person and that person is in love with you and shows that to you, that's all you need. From what I've heard, first times can be awkward but you shouldn't feel like you have to prove something because you don't. It's a simple act of love and that's all you need to think about."

"It's natural to make some mistakes when you're inexperienced. Robin totally gets that and she will help you in the whole process, because you are in love. Do you know that I fell from the bed the first time I had sex?" she beams at me and I laugh along with Vanessa which is inappropriate.

"I didn't mean to laugh, I'm sorry!" I say quickly. "You did? What did the guy do?" I ask interested.

"We burst out laughing both of us. It was really hilarious, but then we tried again and we did it!" She laughs remembering the moment and we giggle again, looking sorry.

"He was ok with that? If something like that would happen to me, I would die." I say knowingly.

"Of course he was. He was a virgin as well so we both had to counter our inexperience. That's even worse in my opinion. I would prefer someone with a little experience to guide me, but I had a good first time. It wasn't dreamy, but it wasn't awful. I had a really good time and I managed to climax,because let's admit it... That matters as well." unnecessary info, but that's ok.

"So... like.. how did you talk about doing it? That's also one of the things I am nervous about." Last time I was very forward to my taste, but saying the actual thing is more nerve racking.

"Well, this was my first and only boyfriend we're talking about here, just to be clear and we were dating for two years, until the end of high school. Sometime along the way I felt like the foreplay wasn't enough and I needed more and I knew that I could trust him, so one day that we were alone in his house I was more eager than usual. My whole body wanted more. He obviously got the vibe, so he asked me if I was sure.I was positive and well, we had sex." Alice narrates,without mincing.

Foreplay with Robin is not enough anymore.

"Oh, so that's how you know?" Vanessa comments lifting up her eyebrows impressed.

"That sounds cool.... ok, I wouldn't normally ask, but... any advice...practical stuff?" I am sure that sounded as lame as I thought it would sound.

"First, anything you enjoy it's not a shame, so there's no taboo in bed. Second, follow your instincts and let Robin guide you. Don't be afraid to say something that you don't like and feel free to guide your partner.Pleasure works both ways. Ask her where she likes your finger the most. FYI clitoris is in the upper area. Also lesbians do the scissoring thing, right? Sorry, but I can't help you with that!" Alice shrugs, after informing me about the practical stuff.

"Scissor what?" Vanessa whispers frowning and looks at me for an answer I suppose, but I am still shocked about what Alice said.

Too much information! And....what's with the scissors again? I hear it often and it doesn't make sense!

"That's ok, Google can't help much either. It suggests adult movies." I shrug too. I will not watch an adult movie.

"You have the protagonist of an adult movie walking around your house! I don't know which one you prefer, his experiences or the movies. It's pretty much the same. It will scar you for life!"

"Hey stop slut shaming Joss." I say semi playfully. "He is being somewhat considerate, at least the girls don't walk around the house fully naked." I say grossed out and Alice laughs.

"Thank God! Oh, a must for a first night! Wear black lace underwears. Those devils can set anyone on fire. Robin will appreciate it." Alice winks at me, and my eyes widen. I have to go shopping!

"Anyway, girls, I'll go hit the showers, see you later." Alice says and after gathering her stuff she goes to their bathroom.

"I hope you didn't feel uncomfortable." Vanessa whispers to me with a concerned look. "I know you and Alice are not super close but she is really an amazing person and so easy to talk to as you saw."

"Um... well, it was a bit uncomfortable, but informative somehow. I am not just that open with people and certain topics." I shrug and then I remember.

"Hey, we didn't get to hang out- hang out. It's getting late. Are we still up for the movie? I don't wanna keep you. " I say pointing the wall clock.

"Oh, I want to hang out-hang out with you and watch the movie unless you have other plans, that's ok by me." She nervously waves her hands in the air.

"No, I told you, today is Vanessa day. Vanessie or Sonessa? Robin comes up with stupid team-names. Sam calls us Robie." I say giggling.

"Oh my Gosh, ship names yes! You are totally Robie, I refer to you as that as well. We can be Vanessie! It sounds cute, what do you think?" She claps her hands cheerfully.

"Yes, it does! Joss and I are called Jossie." I remark.

"And Joss and Alice are called Jalice!" She raises a finger in the air. "I used that term once after the library Jalice accident, to inform others to keep an eye on Ms Fitzgerald. Anyway, should we get started with the movie?"

"Yes, sure! Pick anything you want...just not horror." I try to play it cool.

"I never watch horror movies! Like ever. Not even once. I like to sleep at night." She chuckles. "Have you watched A walk to remember?"

"With Robin yes, she likes Sparks...anything else?" Ro couldn't stop crying during this movie. It was cute.

"That's a shame, I always search for an excuse to watch it again. It is my favourite movie." Vanessa shys. "Well, after the Lion King."

"There's a movie about lions? Like real lions? That's so cool, what do they do?" I ask interested. I think Robin mentioned this lion thing movie again... Alex's favorite, if i remember, but at that time I had no time to comment on that.

"I can't believe Emma thought you have no sense of humor! This was hilarious!" Vanessa bursts into laughter. What's so funny?

"It's a documentary, right? I mean you can't make a movie with real lions."

"Sophie." She looks straight into my eyes frowning. "You are serious about this?"

"Um... yes.. I am... why?" I still don't see where this is going.

"You haven't watched The Lion King? Like ever?" She asks me astonished and widens her eyes.

"When did it come out?" I ask confused.

"1994. What did you watch as a kid if you have never watched The Lion King?" She asks me really puzzled and blinks multiple times.

"Oh, I don't like watching stuff from before I was born, except the Star Wars. I mean... until recently that is..because Ro makes me watch old movies from the 80s. I never really watched cartoons-cartoons. Maybe the smurfs but I didn't like them." I shrug shily.

"What? This is unacceptable!" She raises her voice and stands up from the bed. "Like no Mulan? No Pocahontas? No Aladdin? No Hunchback of Notre Dame?" I shake my head no for every single one she says and Vanessa starts pacing the room. "Oh my God, this can't be real! Not even Toy Story?"

"Well, mom used to tell me that the stories give wrong life lessons. Like with the Snow White or Cinderella... They show that only if you are rich and pretty you can get your prince and that you always need a man for protection and to save you. I never also played with dolls. I played with money though. I pretended I was a banker." Good times. So much fake money ruining through my hands.

"Excuse me, what?" Vanessa lifts her eyebrows and sits on Alice's bed across me. "One of the many things that Snow White and Cinderella teach you is that no matter the difficulties and the obstacles, if you have a good heart and hold on onto hope, you will be happy and get your happy ending. And you didn't play with dolls? Oh my Gosh Sophie, you should have hung out with me instead of Joseph as a kid, I had like three dollhouses and an airplane! There's nothing I can do for that now but, about the Disney epic movies you have never watched, I can do a lot! We're starting now as right now! With The Lion King! Let me check if I have enough tissues for that." She opens the first drawer of her night stand and takes out two packs of tissues. "We're set to go!"

I look at the tissues carefully. Well, I guess I can cry in front of Vanessa while watching a movie. She is my friend. It's totally acceptable now. "Sure, we can watch this, you and Robin are on a mission to educate me about this stuff, sometimes I feel so awkward I didn't like the same things as I kid." I pout.

"You don't have to feel awkward! At all! I didn't mean to make you feel awkward, I am sorry, I just was totally shocked you haven't watched the 90s classics. My mom and I used to watch them all the time non stop. I guess I probably have watched them since my mom is kind of young and she has a younger sister so they used to watch cartoons together and then it turned out to be a family thing. Though the one who enjoys it the most is my dad. He always cries while we watch the Lion King. I do too sometimes and I haven't watched it in a while so I predict that this is going to be one of the times that I will." Vanessa chortles.

"Well, Phoebe and Steve are too young! It must have been nice to have young parents to play with while growing up." I say a bit nostalgic. "I really like your family Vee, your parents are very kind." I smile at her and she smiles proudly too.

"Thank you so much, Sophie! I like yours too! Well, I didn't have the chance to really get to know them but your mom makes excellent tea and knows so many stuff! And Ben is adorable! I wish I had a little brother! Or a little sister! I always wanted someone but my parents were always there for me and I had Emma, so it's almost the same. I like your dad too! He has such a genuine smile! And it is so weird seeing him mowing your lawn in casual clothes when he is always so dressed up with his suits and ties! You'll see, both of them will love Robin! Ben will too!" She gives me an encouraging smile and rests her hand on my shoulder. Sometimes I feel like they will but some other times I fear it might not go well. Vanessa's words make me feel better right now.

"Thank you, I hope so." I smile and point at the PC. "Let's watch the lion thing then. I am ready." I say giggling.

"Here we go!" She says enthusiastically after she puts the movie on and takes the marshmallow bag in her hands.

Joseph's POV

It's 6.50 am and I am standing outside of Alice's dorms, waiting for her to come out. I am on time, so she doesn't have any excuse to tell me off. The weather is cold and windy, but I am too excited to care about that. I am going on one day trip to Washington DC, a city I have never been to and plus I am going with Alice. If someone had told me, that I would go an excursion with Alice and I would be thrilled about it, I would laugh hysterically and I would tell this person to see a doctor.

Alice is getting out of the dorms' entrance, wearing jeans with short black boots with a thick small heel. Her beige coat is done up and a scarf is surrounded around her neck. Her hair is straight and her make up natural. How can she manage to be that beautiful, even so early in the morning? I can see she just woke up, like two days ago that I've seen her in the cafeteria, but it doesn't matter to me. Like I said to her, she's cute like that. She's approaching me, carrying her bag and she flashes a smile, the moment she sees me.

"Good morning Joseph!" she says, still sleepy, trying to hold a yawn.

"Good morning sleepyhead! Are you sure you can drive or are you going to crush us on a tree?" I smirk and she gives me one of her famous glares.

"Seriously? It's not even 7 yet!"

"Someone's brain doesn't function properly..." I answer playfully. "Anyway, Ι came bearing gifts." I smile, pointing the two cups of hot coffee, that I am holding. Her eyes widen from surprise and an unwitting smile crosses her face.

"That's a really considerate gesture." she beams.

"You call it considerate gesture, I call it a precaution. I have to fully wake you to make sure you will drive inside the road limits."

"There's always an ulterior motive..." she moves her head disapprovingly. "And I thought you had become decent. Anyway, you brought coffee, so the reason doesn't matter."

"I don't play with my safety!" I smirk. "This is yours... I remember this is how you drink it." I give her the one cup. She drinks a bit and her eyes sparkle right away.

"It's exactly how I drink it! Thanks!" she grins.

"My pleasure!"

"So let's go to Washington DC! The car is that way."

Alice is driving an Alfa Romeo Giulietta in red colour. A classy car with italian elegance. It suits her perfectly.

"So first time in DC?" She asks, when we hit the road.

"Strangely, yes! It's so close to home, but I have never been there. I have visited many seasides cities and especially cities with aquariums." I say to her taking a sip from my coffee.

"Do you like fish?" she jokes, eyes on the road.

"Not me, my mother. She's a marine biologist,so she visits from time to time seaside areas and she has taken me along."

"That's very interesting. You're mum must be a really smart woman." she exclaims looking ahead.

"She really is and she loves her job. Me traveling with my mum is some of the happiest memories of my life. Sometimes, Dan came along and others the whole family travelled, but it was rare, since my dad had a lot of work at his company." The moment I mention my dad, I see her posture tightening a bit.

"Your dad is an employee?" she asks curiously.

"Actually, he's the employer. He owns a company, that makes computational programs for business companies and banks." I say indifferently.

"That sounds intimidating and difficult, but no offense I think it's boring." she makes a grimace.

"Thank you! Someone finally who understands me! It's boring as fuck and not interesting at all, at least for me!"

"Obviously! I can't imagine you working at something like that. Totally not you!"

"I wish you could say that to my father." I huff and my mood darkens lightly.

"Do you want me to call him or to tell him in person?" she states playfully.

"Although you sound threatening over the phone, I think it's better to tell him in person. You're much more intimidating." I answer and the moment of darkness passes that easily. It only happens with her.

"Just name the time and the place!" she says and I chortle.

"So you're dad won't be at DC?" I change the subject, since my father isn't one of my favourite topics.

"No! He has a case, that's why he has to leave." She answers like it's a usual thing and I think it is.

"Your dad travels a lot right?" I ask curiously to know more about her.

"More than I wanted. But he loves his job and I know he makes this world a better place, so I don't want to be selfish." she exhales and her characteristics tight a bit.

"You're not and I think it's natural that you miss him." I say calmly. "I suppose he doesn't work next weekend, that you go there."

"He better not! It's my birthday and he always bakes me a cake!" she says in a semi commanding semi cheerful voice.

"Your birthday?" I exclaim in surprise. Now that I am thinking about it, she has never mentioned, when it's her birthday.

"Yeah! It's next Saturday, that's why I am going to DC. But don't worry I will celebrate with my friends as well. I can't miss celebrating my first birthday in college." she says enthusiastically. "I talked with Vanessa and it's going to be on Friday. I will make it as an event on Facebook and I will invite all my friends via it."

"I was expecting a personal invitation." I remark seriously.

"What kind of personal invitation?" she raises an eyebrow.

"Something like 'Joseph, I want you so badly to come to my birthday. It will be no fun without you and I desperately need you there...'" I say playfully, waiting for her reaction.

"There is no way I would do that! Not even if my life depended on it." she spats and I laugh. "So since you complained... Joseph, do you want to come next Friday, in the dorms' common room, for my birthday party?" she asks in a sweet voice.

"I will check my agenda and I will let you know!"

"There's nothing more interesting than my birthday!" she addresses with a serious voice and I find adorable the way she said that.

"I know you want me, so I will make your wish come true and I'll be there!" I smirk and she's about to answer again, but I interrupt her. "So will you put any good music?" I point to the radio. She huffs and she turns the radio on.

After two hours driving, talking about different stuff, like music and movies, arguing a bit about the music station, but giving in and singing out loud we finally arrive at DC. It's a big city, but the buildings are not tall like other US cities. It's beautiful in a different way than New York or Boston and of course my hometown. The Potomac river that crosses the city is calm and wide and many people walk at its side. I told Alice the address of the hotel, where the seminar takes place and she told me that it's a central one. She dropped me in front of it and we decided to call each other after we're done.

After 5 hours, the seminar ends. It was very interesting I have to say. Some speakers were a bit boring, but my professor's friend was amazing. He knew his field at an excellent point and he could transmit to you his knowledge in an accessible and enjoyable way. I met some other students as well, from other universities nearby, so my time passed even more pleasantly. There were girls as well, who were giving me flirty glances. I met some of them, just because I am sociable and I can meet people really easily, but despite my flirtatious attitude, I had no interest of anything more with them. What the hell is wrong with me? Then Alice called me and she told me to meet at the metro station 'Capitol South.'

When I get there, I find her waiting for me at the exit of the subway.

"How was the seminar?" she asks genuinely interested.

"Really good. How is your grams?"

"Pretty fine actually. She is almost recovered. My dad worried way too much. Anyway, I cooked for her, I cleaned a bit the house and I helped her with the medicine." She doesn't seem worried.

"She didn't want you to stay any longer?"

"The moment I told her that I was here with a friend, she started saying 'What are you doing here with me?' and 'Go to be with your friend! He needs you more than I do'! Technically she kicked me out of the house!" she laughs and I join her. "But thanks to my natural charm and the fact that I am her favourite granddaughter, I managed to persuade her to call for a personal nurse as long as my dad will be away." she makes a cute face, which is really adorable. She pulls off cute effortlessly, something I couldn't see coming from her. "So ready for the tour?" Her eyes sparkle, full of enthusiasm.

"Totally!" I answer thrilled.

"Great! I want you to be hanged by my lips, when I am speaking!" she demands and I of course I will be. I fucking adore those lips, even though I would prefer to be hung by them literally than metaphorically. But to be completely honest with myself, I want to hear her talking about her city. "First stop, the US Capitol!" She announces and we start walking towards there.

"I recall you have been living here only for two years..." I attempt to start a conversation to get to know her better.

"Yeah! So?" she raises an eyebrow.

"I just wonder how well you know the city! I don't want a clueless guide." I smirk and she hits me lightly on my arm playfully.

"You're such an ass!" she giggles. "I know I live here for only two years, but I really liked the city. It's beautiful and it's not so noisy, like other big cities in US. Plus, I have made a thousand tours for my foreign friends, so trust me you are in good hands!" I know I am.

When we arrive, Alice started saying the basics, like US Capitol is the seat of US Congress and I was like 'You don't say' with my face full of sarcasm. Unfortunately it was closed for the public at the time we arrived, so we just took a couple of photos outside. Alice told me, that her school used to bring them for different assignments.

Next stop was Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research centers, administered by the Government of United States. To get there we had to cross half the national Park, which Alice told me it's her favourite. She used to come here with her father to jog, or with her friends for picnics or just by herself to relax. I enjoy the way she talks about this place and how much she likes it. Her whole face is lit and I just can't get enough of her. I think I could hear her talking for hours. She's very descriptive and she adds her imaginative hilarious comments from time to time.

I saw the Smithsonian Institution Building, which is a castle and as Alice explained to me houses the's administrative offices and information center. Then, after a lottery, we entered in the National Museum of Natural History, since we don't have time to see the National Air and Space Museum too. Better. Another excuse for an 'educational' excursion with Alice.

The museum was big and its exhibits were organised and well preserved. We took many pictures of making fun in front of the exhibits or quoting lines from 'Night at the Museum 2'. We couldn't stop making fun of some exhibits and sometimes we were a bit louder, thus we received some deathly glares from the security guards. We just couldn't stop exploring and laughing. Our next destination was Washington Monument, which is an obelisk on the, built to commemorate George Washington. It's both the world's tallest stone structure and the world's tallest obelisk, as Alice informed me.

White House couldn't be missed from our tour. I started saying to Alice, that it's unacceptable for the president not to welcome me here, since I am an important persona and stuff like that. Alice gave me many eyerolls, but she finally cracked. Well, I have to say president's house is pretty impressive on the outside. I asked Alice if is she's aware of the rent here and she laughed again. As it was expected, we weren't allowed to enter, since reservations had to be booked months earlier. Alice had no idea, since being a daughter of an FBI agent granted her permission,by the escort of her dad.It would be nice to see it on the inside, but I am not obsessed with presidents and politics like Sophie, thus it was not such a bammer.

The end of the tour was Lincoln's monument and to get there we passed the Constitution Gardens, which has a pond with a small island and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool and the Korean Wars Veterans Memorial. I wish we could have lunch on the park, but unfortunately the weather is cold, but after all this walking, I wasn't feeling it anymore. Alice said it was not a good idea, so she proposed to go eat at her place. Thanks to our fast pace, and the fact that we didn't wait at any lines; we finished our tour much earlier than I expected. To be fair, we didn't spend too much time on every exhibit. It was a speed tour much more, but I enjoyed every second of it.

Late in the evening, we took the subway and we arrived at Alice's home, which is at the suburbs, but close to downtown. Seriously, I didn't understand how time passed so fast. If my stomach hadn't growled, I wouldn't have realised I was famished.

Alice's house is pretty big and it has two floors like mine. Α kitchen, a dining room, a WC and a big living room are at the ground floor, so I assume the bedrooms are upstairs. Pictures of her and her father are spread all over the living room. My attention is caught by some medals on the wall. They are her father's and hers. Her father must be a really good agent, since I've lost count of them. Alice's are from participations on different contests. From karate to taekwondo. Impressive!

"I am exhausted!" she huffs and falls with force on the couch.

"My legs are killing me!" I groan as well, falling on the couch, next to her. "But I had a blast!" Alice flashes me a wide smile.

"Really?"

"Yeah, you're a hell of a guide. I will prefer you again." I joke and she chuckles.

"At your services! I had a great time as well. " she admits and I feel happy to hear that. "I am thinking about ordering burgers. Do you prefer something else?" she asks, as she stands up from the couch and goes to the kitchen.

"I would eat even bricks now."

Alice chuckles, before she goes to the kitchen to bring the menus. After a while, we make the order and we find ourselves resting on the couch next to each other.

"You have to show me the katana sword. You invited me to see it after all." I turn my body to face her completely.

"You managed to steal me for an excursion after all!" she smirks.

"I wasn't going to let you get away that easily." I pierce her with my eyes and she freezes at her spot. When I am around Alice, I can't be friendly. I have this urge to say things to her that are beyond the friendship's status. Not to mention, I crave to see her reactions.

"Well, mission accomplished!" she smiles, but I can't get anything else from her. Damn with this girl. "Let's get you to my room!"

"Are you going to seduce me?" I smirk.

"You figured out my purpose. I wanted to exhaust you, so I can do with you whatever I have in my dirty mind." she jokes and she motions me to follow her upstairs. Well, I would have no problem with that.

When I enter her room, I wonder how she manages to live in the dorms. It is spacious with a large bed in the middle. She has a large wardrobe and a dresser. It's painted in light and more intense purple and like the room in her dorms is like a travel blog. Then I see the sword. It's on a base which is attached on the wall. Alice brings it down and take it out of its case.It's magnificent and threatening in the same time. I can see it's very sharp.

"If you say anything stupid, I can cut you into pieces." Her tone is serious.

"I was pretty aware of that!" I answer with a smile.

"It looks very beautiful and elegant, just by standing there, but if it's on the battlefield, it's lethal." she caresses it gracefully.

"Like you." I lock my eyes with hers in an intense eye contact, which is ruined by the bell sound.

"That's our orders!" Alice exclaims and puts the sword back to its place really quickly and goes downstairs to open the door, as I follow her.

Alice's POV

"Burgers are here!" I announce, going to the kitchen.

"How much do I owe you?" He takes his wallet out to pay.

"No no no! You're in my house! Μy treat!" I move my hand nervously in front of him.

"There's no way. I am going to do it Alice's style!" he exclaims, taking out 20 backs and puts it on the table. I am about to protest, but he speaks again. "Not a word! You drove, you showed me around, there's no way I am letting you pay for my food as well."

"Fine!" I groan and I serve the food and he sits on the kitchen table next to me. I have to admit Joseph is indeed a gentleman, even though 3 months ago, I would totally bet otherwise.

"Did they put ketchup in?" he asks. I look at the bag, but no.

"I think we have in the fridge!" I open the fridge's door and bingo! We have ketchup. I give it to Joseph and he turns around the bottle to put some, but no red sauce appears.

"What the hell? It's empty!" He exclaims annoying.

"There's no way. My dad wouldn't put empty ketchup in the fridge. Let me help you!"

I stand up to take the bottle and I push it with force to spill the ketchup. However I didn't calculate how much force I applied, resulting to Joseph's light blue shirt to be covered with the red liquid. How stupid can I possibly be?

"I am sorry! I didn't want to ruin your design shirt!"I try to make a joke, to lighten the gaffe I just caused.

"Don't worry! I think you gave it a unique style. It was dull before." He answers casually like nothing happened. I can't help it, but crack a smile and I am glad he didn't get angry.

"We should wash it! If this stain remains, it won't go out." I tell him and he gives me a surprised look.

"There is no need! I don't want to put you into trouble."

"No trouble at all. We still have time until we hit the road."

"Since you insist!" Then he unbuttons his shirt slowly. Bit by bit, his body starts to appear. When he takes it out, I am stuck in the same position gawking like stupid. His body is amazing. He has perfect abs and a fit chest. His arms are quite muscular too, just as they need to be. I find myself wanting to touch his body with my fingers. To feel his skin under my hands and kiss his whole breathtaking body. Especially his tattoo. He has a decomposed feather, on his arm, which transforms to birds spreading on his collar bone. My body is fully aroused now and I don't know how to stop it. My eyes explore him hungrily and I realise I'm biting my lip.

"Do you enjoy the view?" he says, but his voice is not playful. It's seductive. I should find a way to get out of here, but all my senses are paralyzed by him. I try to find something smart to say, but my tongue is tied. His smell is intoxicating and it makes it much more harder to concentrate. What is he doing to me? Then he comes closer saying. "I think you do!". I am taking small steps behind and suddenly I am confined between the counter and him. I am so doomed. I want to kiss him again so badly. The worst thing is, I don't want him only to kiss me. I want him to do more things to me; laying me on the counter and make me scream. No, Alice! No! It's his style! Don't be one of his harem!

"Well, I assume you don't sit all day in front of a computer." I joke cracking an awkward laughter, achieving to make the atmosphere less erotic, as I manage to get away from him, due to his astonishment. "Give me your shirt." I say and he huffs, giving it to me. I am taking this immediately to the bathroom. I have no idea how I manage to gather all this strength of resistance. It was one of the most difficult things I have ever done considering, I have beaten 5 men in training session.

When I get back, I see Joseph sitting shirtless on his chair waiting for me. I try not to gulp. He's irresistible sitting like this and I put every effort to control my hungry hormones.

"I brought one of my dad's T-shirts for you to wear." I give him a white plain one.

"Why?"

"Because I can't be eating and seeing you like this." I point my hands at him. "You're distracting me!" God, why did I say that? Then I see his smirk widening.

"Do I?"His smirk widens.

"I don't mean you, like you.. I mean anyone, who sits shirtless next to me, when I am eating distracts me in a negative annoyingly way. Would you like me to be with my bra, while you're eating?" I say and I inner facepalm right away. What did I say? What the heck Alice?

"The truth is I wouldn't mind at all. On the contrary, I would love the sight, but since you're going crazy right here I am going to put the T-shirt on." Thank God! Wait a minute? What did he say? I think my heart is pounding louder than ever and the arousal increases as long as I see him like this and bonus; he talks to me like that. Snap out, Alice. He would love every girl in her fucking bra.

When he puts the T-shirt, we start eating. I start asking him his impressions about the city. This conversation is out of the danger zone and thankfully our intense moment passed and Joseph didn't push it any further. I am happy though he enjoyed his day here and that he wants to come back. I had a great time with him as well and I think that I get even more hooked by him. I am sure Ren will tell me off in our next Skype session. When we finished eating, I clean the kitchen and I put Joseph's shirt in the dryer. After 10 minutes, it is dry and clean, so I give it back to him. I think we are set to go.

After some time we find ourselves in the car, driving back to the college. It's around midnight, but I don't mind driving at night. I actually enjoy it. Joseph tries to keep me company, but I can see his exhaustion.

"Sleep if you want! I don't mind." I say in a calm voice. After a couple of minutes, his eyes are closed and he's breathing slowly in a rhythmical way. He looks even more beautiful, when he's sleeping. He's so peaceful. When we're almost near college, I wake him up to ask him where he lives and after 10 minutes, we're outside of his apartment.

"Thanks for today Alice! I had a wonderful time!"

"I had an amazing one too!" I say with a smile.

"We should do this more often. Goodnight!"

"Goodnight!" I say and he steps out of the car. I watch him until he enters the house. After this day, I fell even more for him.

A/N:Thanks for reading. We really appreciate and love all the readers who keep up with the story. It means a lot. Soooo, do you like paper gang? Any favourite? What about the girl talk? Sophie is about to take the next big step. And last but not least Alice and Joseph spent a whole day together. I hope you enjoyed the trip like they did. :)