If kisses were stars,
I would give you the sky

Charlotte's P.O.V

"NONNO!" I squealed as I ran into my grandfather, Nicholas De Luca's arms. "Oh my God, I missed you so much." I said as I hugged him tight. "I know you did, Angel. I missed you too, bambina." He patted my back before pulling away from the hug.

"Papà, sei qui. Com'è andato il viaggio, vecchio?" Papà greeted Nonno with a hug. He had just came back from his trip to London. The trip was supposed to be two months long but he decided to cut it short when he heard about his granddaughter getting engaged. "Se qualcuno è vecchio, allora sei tu, Simon. Sono ancora molto giovane." Nonno smirked making Papà roll his eyes. I giggled.

"Dad, you're here. How was your trip, old man?"

"If anybody is old then it's you, Simon. I'm still very young."

"My wife would say otherwise." Papà smirked cockily before turning around and getting lost behind the big doors of his office. A gasp left my mouth at this while my cheeks turned deep red. I did not need to know that. Whereas Nicholas had a sly grin on his face, identical to his son.

The sound of footsteps filled in the air as Mama and Sarah walked inside the house. They had went out to take a walk together in the garden.

"Nonno!" Sarah gasped as soon as her eyes landed on him. She ran into his arms making him chuckle. "Cosa mi hai portato da Londra?" She asked immediately.

"What did you bring me from London?"

"I missed you too, la mia bambina." Nonno chuckled making her blush, "Oops sorry." Mama and I let out a small giggle. "Hey Nicholas, it's good to see you again." Mama hugged him next. "It's good to see you too." He replied.

"And don't worry, Marie. I've brought gifts for everyone." He grinned at Sarah causing a wide smile to take over her face. Nonno often addressed us with our middle name. It was just a habit of his. He used to call his son and daughter-in-law by their middle name too. My middle name was Angel whereas Sarah's middle name was Marie.

"You're the best!" She squealed, jumping into his arms again. "Why don't you go and get some rest? You must be tired." I suggested. "I'd rather like a warm bath." He said. "I'll run one for you." Sarah said before running upstairs to Nonno's bedroom. "Don't run on the stairs, Sarah!" Mama scolded which she ignored.

"So," Nonno cleared his throat. "At what time are the Biebers coming over?" He questioned. Did I mention that he has invited the Bieber family over for dinner? He was the only one who hasn't met Justin yet, which I quite don't believe. My parents knew about Justin claiming me since I was sixteen. And I bet they had met him too so Nonno must have had too, right? Nonetheless, he wasn't present when I got engaged.

"Around seven o'clock, why?" Mama asked. "Good. We have a whole day." He clicked his tongue while checking his gold Rolex watch. It was currently ten o'clock in the morning. "Meet me in an hour. You need to do some practicing." The tenderness in Nonno's voice was replaced with sternness. I wasn't talking to my grandfather now, I was talking to the powerful Nicholas De Luca. The Nicholas De Luca who had Chicago trembling under his feet. The Mafia who loved to spread terror amongst his enemies.

"But Nonno, I am the one who is supposed to prepare the dinner tonight. How am I am going to do that if I am practicing?" I asked softly. "You can prepare the dinner after your practice." He said as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. He may have a soft spot for his family but he took work very seriously and strictly. He didn't like to compromise when it comes to working or learning something. "Her in-laws are coming over tonight, Nick. Can't we postpone the practice till tomorrow? Or she will get very tired." Mama asked, worriedly.

"I don't care." He shrugged. "Nothing in this world comes for free. Everybody needs to work hard to achieve something in their lives. This applies on Charlotte too." The firmness in his voice was clearly evident. I gulped. "You have an hour. Don't be late." With that he turned around to make his way towards his bedroom. "Yes sir." I replied. "I would love to see your new paintings. Be ready with them." He turned his head a little making me smile softly, "I hope you like them." He grinned and disappeared upstairs, I let out a heavy sigh and rubbed my forehead. I could tell I was going to be very exhausted by the end of this day.

How am I supposed to handle these two things now? I thought.

⎯⎯ ୨ ୧ ⎯⎯

"Get out of my way!" I hurriedly walked past Sarah into my bedroom, slamming the door behind me. I even ignored her calls for me. I was in no mood to have a conversation nor did I have time. I pulled the shirt I was wearing over my head on my way to the bathroom. It was currently 5:45 p.m. which meant I still had an hour and fifteen minutes to get ready.

I had spent total four hours practicing with Nonno. I didn't even get a chance to shower after it. I could only wash my hands and face before rushing into the kitchen to prepare the dinner for tonight. It was yet an another big task in itself. I have never cooked for so many people at once before but thankfully I was able to manage with Mama's help.

After undressing myself, I stepped under the warm water and let out a breath while closing my eyes. I spent a half and hour under the shower, cleaning myself and getting rid of the smell of my sweat. I also applied shampoo in my hair. After I was done showering, I wrapped towels around my body and hair. I did my skin care routine which consists of applying lotion on my body and moisturizing my face. I decided against using sunscreen. After all, it was almost night, it would be of no use.

Then, I blow dried my hair and let it fall freely for now. Thank God, I had picked up my dress yesterday night itself. Slipping the dress on, I zipped it. I was wearing a strapless coral Atelier Versace gown with a purple tulle overlay and short train.

For makeup, I decided to go for a simple yet glamorous look. I did cat-eye wing with a hint of shimmer on my eyelids. Then, I applied mascara to make my eye lashes look long and wispy. I even applied a small amount of warm pink blush on my cheeks. At the end, I covered my lips with berry-pink colored lipstick.

Satisfied with my work, I smiled at my reflection. I accessorized the look with matching magenta butterfly dangle earrings. My hair was into loose waves so I decided to leave it like that.

Looking at my reflection one last time, I smiled brightly. My dress was beautiful. My makeup was perfect. This was definitely the look I was going for. I'd say I was looking exceptional.

"Lottie, your husband is going to be here in fifteen minutes." Sarah's yell filled into my ears making me roll my eyes. Why does everybody keep calling Justin my husband? We weren't even married yet.

"He's not my husband." I exclaimed as I walked out. "Yet." My little sister smirked. I rolled my eyes again and shoved her arm, "You are so annoying."

I decided to make my way into the kitchen to see if everything was ready or not. The smell of delicious food filled into my nostrils and I grinned. I couldn't wait to eat. For the next ten minutes, I helped Mama with arranging cutlery on the table as we talked the minutes away.

Suddenly, my ears perked up at the sound of running car. I quickly washed my hands and wiped them before running towards a large window from where I could have a clear view of the driveway. I peeked outside from the curtains. A tall figure got out of the car. He was wearing a two-piece suit with white shirt that had minor black paint splatters and paired it with a black pointed toe leather derby formal shoes. He had only buttoned the top button of his coat. He was also wearing a clear gold rimmed aviator sunglasses.

Justin was here.

As if he could sense my eyes on him, he turned his gaze towards me. A smirk took over his lips almost instantly. A gasp flew from my mouth while my cheeks got flushed as I closed the curtains. I took a few steps back before walking towards the kitchen in hurry.

Soon enough, the sound of multiple voices filled in the living room. I couldn't find any courage to go out and greet everyone just yet. I was quite embarrassed from what had just happened. I opened the door of the refrigerator and stuck my face inside when it started to feel too hot. I sighed in relief when the cold air struck at it.

I pulled out a bottle of water from the refrigerator before closing its door behind me. I turned around only to crash against a hard chest. My eyes widened. A scream was about to erupt from my mouth but they put their hand on my mouth before I could even do so. They pushed me against the machine which was standing tall behind me. Their body was pressed dangerously close to mine which I tried to ignore.

"It's just me." Justin spoke up. I removed his hand from my mouth and let out a breath which I don't even remember holding onto. "Hey." He smiled. "Hi," I pushed him away from my body. "What are you doing here?" I asked as I started pouring myself a glass of chilled water. I don't know what came over me but I poured him a glass of water too. He didn't question and gladly took it from me.

"I recall being invited over by my wife's family for dinner." He smirked before taking a sip of water from his glass. "I'm not your wife." I grumbled. He hummed to himself, his hand reaching out to hold my left one. He lifted it, brushing his finger against the big diamond resting on my ring finger, "This says otherwise, don't you think so too?"

Then, he leaned in and kissed my hand. "This still doesn't make me your wife. We're not married yet." I pulled my hand away from his. "Keyword: yet." He smirked and leaned against the wall of the refrigerator. "Right," I smiled sarcastically. "It means I'm still your fiancée, not your wife." I grinned in victory. "It is the same thing." He shrugged. "No it is not." I glared at him. "Awe, is my wifey mad at me?" He pouted teasingly making me growl in frustration. God, why did he has to be so irritating? "Stop calling me your-"

"What are you doing here, principessa? Oh hey Justin." Papà greeted when his gaze landed on Justin standing beside me. "Hello Simon." Justin greeted back, after straightening his posture. "I was thirsty." I answered, showing him my glass. "Finish that quick and come in the living room. Your Nonno is looking for you both." He said. I nodded my head and he walked away. I quickly finished my glass of water and put it in the sink.

"Are you done?" I asked Justin who was still holding his glass. "Uhm yeah." He cleared his throat before gulping the water down. He handed it to me to put it in the sink except for doing it by himself. Seriously?

"Lazy bitch." I scoffed under my breath. "Did you say something?" Justin raised an eyebrow while questioning. "No, it was nothing." I faked a grin. He hummed, "It's not nice to call your husband a 'lazy bitch'."

"It's not nice to lie either." I smirked slightly, hearing him chuckle at me. I rolled my eyes playfully and started to make my way towards the living room with Justin by my side. "Aren't you going to wish me luck?" He licked his lips. "For what?" I frowned my eyebrows in confusion. "For meeting your grandfather." He answered. "Why? Are you nervous?" I asked causing him to shrug in response. "Well I wish he ends up hating you so I can get rid of you already." I joked. I think.

"Too bad you aren't getting rid of me," He chuckled before stopping in his track. I stopped too and turned to look at him with a confused look on my face. What happened to him now? I thought.

"I didn't get to say this earlier but you're looking extremely gorgeous tonight." He smiled softly before leaning in and placing a kiss on my right cheek causing it to turn scarlet immediately. His smile widened when he pulled away before he started walking past me towards the living room. I could feel my cheeks getting warm as I touched the spot where Justin's lips had been not even a minute ago. I let out a shaky breath before slowly turning my head to stare at him.

I don't know how this was even possible but Justin always seem to know when I was staring. Even in a room full of people, he could tell when I was staring at him. He turned his head and gave me a wink. My cheeks heated up even more as I watched him walk away.

What is happening to me? I couldn't help but ask myself.

When I reached the living room, I found everyone talking and having laughs amongst themselves. "There she is!" Sarah grinned. She was sitting beside Faith. Faith smiled brightly and waved at me. I giggled and waved back at her. Every pair of eyes turned to me as they greeted me with a smile.

"Good evening." I greeted everyone with a smile. I got to recieve hugs from everyone. I decided to sit beside Maya and Justin as it was the only spot left. Everybody had a glass of liquor in their hand, except for Sarah, Faith, Bella and (of course) me. Us four girls were stuck with apple juice. Although, Maya sneaked me some of her white wine secretly. Don't I just love when my sister-in-law always sneak me liquor? I felt as if we were becoming best friends already.

The living room was filled with the voices of the ladies as we chatted away. The men had left to talk in private. Maybe it was related to their business. Boring.

"How was the yatch day for you? Did you have fun?" Alea asked smiling. "I am so sorry I couldn't be there. I was very busy." She apologized. "Yeah busy fucking." Bella mumbled while smirking slightly. A small giggle left my mouth as I covered it with my hand. She gave me a look while giggling. I couldn't help but let out a laugh. "What are you both laughing about?" Faith lifted her head to look at us. Her and Sarah were sitting on a different couch, talking and watching something on their phones.

"Inside jokes." Bella chuckled. "It was a great experience." I grinned at Alea. "I bet it was." She groaned. "We need to have a girls vacation real soon!" She clapped her hands excitedly. Everybody agreed. "Why do you have to get me all excited?" Maya whined causing me to chuckle slightly. "Oops." Alea smirked.

The sound of shoes shuffling against the floor filled in the air. I turned my head only to find the men making their way back while talking among themselves.

My gaze fell upon Justin as he settled down beside me and gave me a small smile. "Was it too boring without me?" He whispered. I rolled my eyes, "You wish."

"Liar." He whispered again making me glare at him. I shook my head and looked at Sarah and Faith who were still very engaged in some talk. It looked as if they had been best friends since they were kids. I wonder what were they talking about. Same with Mama and Pattie, they looked lost in their own world. I even heard Pattie complaining about how her sons don't listen to her and do reckless things, always giving her a hard time. She was narrating some incidents about how they troubled her and almost gave her grey hairs. I couldn't wait to tease Justin over it. That would be fun. Thankfully, Mama didn't complain about me when we both knew I have troubled her a lot.

"How is the business going, Justin?" Nonno questioned making me snap out of my train thoughts. I turned my head to look at him, he was taking a sip of his whiskey from the glass. "It is going good, sir." Justin replied. "I hope you are working hard to protect my Angel." Seriousness was clearly evident in Nonno's voice. "You already know what will happen if she gets hurt even the slightest."

As if Justin felt his dominance being questioned, he clenched his jaw. His body got tensed. I could tell he was a little intimated by Nonno but he was playing it cool. "Nobody has enough power to hurt Justin Bieber's wife." He placed his hand on my left thigh, caressing it gently. His answer was short but that gave away everything. I glared at his hand and then back at him. Jeremy and Justin's brothers were clearly proud of him and they were trying hard to hide their sly grins, identical to that of Justin's. Nonno smirked and nodded his head. This could only mean one thing.

Justin had his approval to marry me.

ˏˋ°•*⁀➷

"I can't wait until this baby is out of me." Bella huffed. We were now all seated on the dining table and the dinner had been served. I had cooked Lasagne, Braised Chicken all'Arrabbiata, Chicken Parmesan with Pepperoni, Mushroom-Sausage Ragù and Slow Cooker Sunday Sauce on Spaghetti. For desert, I've baked butterscotch cake.

"Is it that painful?" I couldn't help but ask. She groaned and nodded her head, resting it against Zayn's shoulder while rubbing her belly. "But I am ready to eat some more. All of this is too delicious." She quickly recovered and took another bite of her spaghetti making me giggle, "I'm glad you're enjoying it."

"You're an amazing cook, sweetie." Pattie praised making me smile, "Thank you very much."

"I might just make your wife stay with me and May so she can cook us delicious food everyday. This is literal heaven." Sloan joked as he took another bite of Chicken Parmesan. My cheeks heat up. "Not a chance." Justin scoffed.

"I actually don't mind staying with them." I shrugged making Justin glare at me, "Again, not a chance."

"You're one lucky bastard, Justin." Andrew chuckled. Of course, he was. I inwardly joked. "I've been knew." Justin grinned.

"Would you like some more spaghetti, Char? It is your favourite, right?" Maya offered and I frowned my eyebrows in confusion. "How do you know it is my favourite?" I couldn't help but ask.

"Uhm... Justin told me." She gave me a grin. "Oh." I mumbled and glare at Justin who was taking a sip of water, trying to avoid my glare. Of course, he did.

"Thank you. I'll take some by myself." I smiled at her. "Nonsense, I'll serve it to you. It is right in front of me." She stood up to serve me some spaghetti. I thanked her and took another bite of it. Bella looked over at Maya with a pout. Maya chuckled and served some to her too making her smile instantly.

They're so cute. I inwardly awe'ed.

After dinner, the desert was served. I don't think I've ever recieved so many praises and compliments at once. I almost lost count of them. Everybody loved my cooking which made me really happy.

"Where is my ice cream?" Nonno asked, looking around at the table. "Ice cream? Didn't you just have a piece of cake?" Papà looked confused. "You know I can't go without my favourite ice cream after every meal." Nonno replied, glaring at his son. Since when does he eats ice-cream after every meal? "Nick, how about I get that for you tomorrow? It's getting late now." Mama suggested. "Why should I wait? You know better that I don't like waiting. I want my ice cream now!" He spat, almost slamming his hand on the table. "Stop acting like a kid, you're way too old." Papà grumbled.

"It's okay, Simon. How about Charlotte and I get it for him? We can leave now." Justin offered. I glared at him whereas Nonno's face lightened up instantly. "Now, that's the number one quality of a grandson-in-law. I think you both should leave now," Nonno grinned.

"What are you waiting for Angel? Go and get your coat. It's cold outside." He turned to me. "Yeah." I mumbled and got up from my seat. I went into the kitchen to wash my hands with Justin.

Something felt fishy. Nonno has never been so obsessed with ice cream that he couldn't go a meal without it. After drying my hands, I turned only to find Sarah standing with my coat in her hand. "Thank you." I grinned as she helped me put it on. "You're so lucky to have a sister like me." She smirked making me roll my eyes playfully. I walked outside to see everybody getting off their seats to wash their hands. "What flavour do you want me-"

"-us to bring?" Justin cut me off as he appeared by my side. "Neapolitan would be nice. That is my favourite." Nonno smiled. "Do you even know its components?" Papa rolled his eyes. Nonno chose to ignore him. "Okay, I'll-"

"-we'll bring that." I was again interrupted by my future husband. I sighed to myself, trying to refrain myself from rolling my eyes. He was so going to hear about it from me when we are out of this house. I knew he was just doing it to get up on my nerves.

"Let's go." He smiled at me before grasping my hand in his. I looked down at it then at him with an raised eyebrow. He just smiled innocently. An unintentional small smile took over my face and I slightly shook my head.

When we were making our way outside, I saw Justin turning his head from the corner of my eyes. He mouthed a 'thank you' to Nicholas. He just smiled back at Justin in return.

So, it was their plan. Nonno didn't want any ice-cream, he was just helping Justin get some alone time with me. When we were about to reach Justin's car, I punched him on the arm and snatched my hand away from his. "Ow, why would you do that?" He groaned. "Great plan." I smiled sarcastically. A hint of realisation glistened in his eyes. Although, he quickly recovered and started staring at me innocently. Yeah right, it won't work with me buddy. I thought to myself.

"What are you talking about?" He frowned. "I'm not stupid, Justin. I know it was you and Nonno all along. You just wanted an excuse to spend time with me." I pointed at him. "You really think I need an excuse to spend time with my wife?" He raised an eyebrow, taking a step towards me. I took a step back. My heart started beating faster against my chest while my palms grew sweaty. I wanted nothing more than to just wipe them on my coat.

"I already told you I'm not your wife." I grumbled and looked away from him. "Why are you so grumpy?" He chuckled a little. I gasped and looked at him, "I am not grumpy!"

"Then, do I make you nervous?" He took another step with me taking a step back only for my back to hit against his car. "Why would I be nervous? I don't even like you." I said. "Really?" He leaned in making me gulp and look down, trying to shield my face with my hair as it curtained my face. His hand slided down as he wrapped it around my waist.

Once again, I was trapped. Justin's body was pressed against my body. I let out a breath and slowly looked up. My gaze instantly fell on his face which was too close to my own. Our noses were almost touching.

"Sei una bellissima bugiarda." He smiled to himself. My cheeks heat up. Why wasn't my body cooperating with me? It was the time where I should've pushed him away but I couldn't do so. It felt as if my heart was holding my brain back from ordering my hands to push him away. I wanted to reply back with a smart comment but my throat went dry.

"You're a beautiful liar."

My eyes widened a little when Justin started leaning in. Was he going to kiss me? I questioned myself. I squeezed my eyes shut. But it never happened.

Suddenly, I gasped when a sound of click caught me off guard. I opened my eyes again to find Justin opening the passanger door of his car for me. "After you." He chuckled.

As if my body has gained its strength again, I gently pushed him away and got in the car. My cheeks flushed. Oh my God, that was so embarrassing. Justin chuckled again and closed the door before getting on the driver's side.

Within a few seconds, the car came to life. Justin drove the car out of the driveway. After few minutes, the car was running on the road.

The car ride was filled with silence with Justin looking ahead at the road as he drove. I kept my gaze fixed on the window, looking over at the sceneries as we drove fast them. I sighed to myself and turned on the radio.

A small smile crept on my lips when august by Taylor Swift started blasting through the speakers. I couldn't help but hum the song to myself. But it didn't last long. The smile was wiped off my face when the radio got turned off. I gave Justin a death glare which didn't end up fazing him. He didn't even look at me and continued to drive. I huffed and turned it on again. Just then, I saw a tattooed hand of Justin's reaching to turn it off, I slapped it away. His stubborn self tried to turn it off again with me slapping his hand away. Again.

"Ow," He mumbled. "What is your problem?" He said. "What is my problem? What is your problem?" I spat. "You know, listening to music during car rides is not a crime." I rolled my eyes.

"I don't like listening to music during car rides." He said nonchalantly. "Then deal with it because I love it." I said making him sigh and shake his head to himself. I wrapped my arms around my chest and rolled my eyes, looking ahead at the road too. Why does he has to be so annoying?

The car ride was of about half an hour. We still had ten minutes left to reach to th grocery store which was always opened 24/7. For the rest of the ride, none of us said anything. The only sound which could be heard of the songs playing in the background. The song When We Were Young by Adele came on. The sound of a beautiful melody filled in the air, then came the singer's beautiful voice.

Everybody loves the things you do
From the way you talk
To the way you move
Everybody here is watching you
'Cause you feel like home
You're like a dream come true

I couldn't help but look over at Justin. His silky brown hair was perfectly styled. I wonder what it felt like running my hands through them. I bet my fingers would slip right through them. His arched eyebrow made him look a little tensed as if something was bothering him. I wish I could know what was bothering him. His hazel eyes were big, holding so many emotions in them. They would glisten under the presence of light as if they were magical. Moving a little south was his nose which I found really cute. And then his lips. They were pink and plump, shaped like a heart. Those made him look even more beautiful whenever he would smile. He had a little stubble on his chin. His jaw was sharp and he would clench it ever so often. Never have I ever payed the attention to his facial features as I was doing now.

I never realised he was this beautiful. Maybe because I feared that I would get trapped.

But if by chance you're here alone
Can I have a moment?
Before I go?
'Cause I've been by myself all night long
Hoping you're someone I used to know

You look like a movie
You sound like a song
My God this reminds me, of when we were young

God, he really looked a movie. A beautiful, wonderful movie.

"Will you stop staring at me?" I was snapped out of my train of thoughts by the melodious voice of the man sitting beside me. He was still looking towards the road but this time with a big smirk spread across his face. I blinked a couple of times and turned my head away quickly.

"Why would I be staring at you?" I said. "You're not that special for me to stare at you." I lied through my teeth. A small laugh filled in the air causing butterflies to flutter in my stomach. I tried to ignore this feeling but it was of no use. Fuck, what was happening to me?

Let me photograph you in this light
In case it is the last time
That we might be exactly like we were
Before we realized
We were scared of getting old
It made us restless
It was just like a movie
It was just like a song

"Mia bella bugiarda." He said softly and my cheeks heat up. I cleared my throat, daring myself not to look at him.

"My beautiful liar."

I was so scared to face my fears
Nobody told me that you'd be here
And I'd swear you moved overseas
That's what you said, when you left me

I was praying for this car ride to end already so I could get out of this situation. I couldn't believe I was just caught staring at Justin. Why was I even staring at him in the first place?

Because he's beautiful. My subconscious said.

Shut up!

You know it's true. My subconscious argued.

Go away!

But seems like luck wasn't on my side since we found ourselves trapped in a traffic jam. I sighed to myself and leaned back against my seat. I could feel Justin's eyes on me but I couldn't bring myself to look at him.

You still look like a movie
You still sound like a song
My God, this reminds me, of when we were young

"Who is staring now, huh?" I, finally found some courage to look at him. He smiled softly, "I never denied it. It is hard not to stare at you." A blush crept on my face as I started biting my bottom lip, trying hard not to smile. I bet I was failing miserably. I don't think I've ever blushed so much in my life. And it was all Justin's fault. I bet he knows black magic. Yeah, he must be using that on me. Otherwise how would he have this type of effect on me all of the sudden? I was not suppose to fall into his charms. At least, not so soon if that ever ends up happening.

Let me photograph you in this light
In case it is the last time
That we might be exactly like we were
Before we realized

The next thing I knew was a flash going off, blinding my eyes a little since I wasn't expecting it as Justin clicked a picture of me on his phone. "Why would you do that?" I gasped. "Show me, I can't believe you just clicked a picture of me. I bet I look horrible." I leaned in to see the picture. Relief washed over me when I saw the picture. Thank God, I wasn't looking horrible. In fact, I looked... presentable. Pretty even. "It is beautiful, isn't it?" Justin grinned making me look at him. Our faces were very close to each other again. I won't deny but my gaze fell on his lips for a second. I wish I could kiss them. What?! No! No! No! I cannot think like that. I do not want to kiss him!

Yes you do. The voice in my head said.

Why haven't you left yet?

We were sad of getting old
It made us restless
It was just like a movie
It was just like a song
When we were young
(When we were young)
When we were young
(When we were young)

"Uhm, the traffic has cleared." I said, getting back on my seat. My heart won't stop thumping. It felt like a rush of adrenaline. He just smiled at me before starting up the car again and driving off.

Soon, we reached our destination. Justin opened the car door for me like a gentleman and helped me out. I grabbed a shopping cart on my way in just in case. "Come on." Justin grabbed my arm and started dragging me towards the wrong aisle. "Justin, we're heading towards a wrong aisle." I spoke up. "No, this is the right one. Trust me, I know." He stubbornly denied.

Of course, he ended up being wrong. We ended up on the fruit aisle. I glared at him while he looked at me innocently. Scratching the back of his neck nervously, he said, "Uhm you know what they say,"

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away." He gave me an innocent smile before he started grabbing a few in a bag and putting it in the cart. "I did tell you we were heading towards the wrong aisle." I stated. "And I did tell you to trust me. I knew where we were heading to." He lied. "So you're telling me you wanted to buy some apples?" I raised an eyebrow. "Uh huh." He nodded his head. In no way was he telling the truth. He was too stubborn to accept his mistakes no matter how silly they might be.

"You're a horrible liar." I giggled and started walking again. This time, Justin was the one pushing the cart. "We need to go left." Justin suggested again. "That will lead us to a wrong aisle. Again." I looked at him. "No it will not. Come on." He started dragging me with him again. "Why are you so stubborn?" I groaned. "Why are you so stubborn?" He mocked making me roll my eyes.

Guess who was wrong again? Dun dun dun dun dun, Mr. I-know-everything. We have a winner here again. This time we ended up on the stationary aisle. "Didn't you need some stationary for college?" He questioned while grinning innocently. I sarcastically nodded my head. "Uhm, let's go this way." He was about to drag me again but I was quick to stop him this time.

"Justin, please tell me honestly. When was the last time you went grocery shopping?" I asked. "Uhm... it was three years ago." He slowly answered. My eyes widened a little. "Three years ago?" I couldn't help but ask. Did I hear him right? He nodded his head. No wonder he didn't remember anything about the aisles of this store because this was the closest grocery store from both of our houses.

"Did you use to go alone?" I asked. "Uhm no, I used to go with my best friend. She used to shop while I used to push the cart around and help her in between." He said, giving me a small smile. "She? Was she your girlfriend?" I raised an eyebrow. Although he did mention her being his best friend, I felt a need to ask this question. And the worst part was that I didn't even know why. He shook his head softly. "Why don't you shop with her now? You can be at help when you aren't so stubborn." I grinned. However, Justin did not smile. "Uhm... she isn't around anymore." He said softly. My eyes softened and I decided it was time to drop this conversation. "Oh. I'm sorry I didn't know." I apologized. "It's okay." He shrugged and gave me a small smile.

"Well hats off to her for dealing with you 'cause you're a lot of work and don't know anything as you claim to do." I smirked, trying to light up the mood. Thankfully, Justin ended up laughing a little, "I'm really a pain in the ass, huh?"

"No doubt in that," I giggled and grabbed some highlighters, pen and a notebook. "And I do need some stationary for my college." I smiled softly before putting them in the cart. He smirked and gave me a 'I told you so' look. I let out a short chuckle and started heading towards the dairy aisle. But I found myself stopping in my tracks when I didn't hear him coming behind me. I turned around only to find him staring at me. It looked as if he was consumed in some deep thoughts. "What are you standing there for? Let's go this way." said, pointing towards the correct aisle.

He snapped out of his gaze and nodded his head. He started pushing the cart towards my direction. When we reached there, I grabbed the Neapolitan flavour of ice cream and put it in the cart. I even put some other flavours I found that I liked.

"Never thought we'd have our second date at a grocery store." Justin spoke up. "This is not a date." I rolled my eyes playfully. He ignored me and pulled out his phone from his pants' pocket, "Let's take a picture to show our children in future so we can tell them about how their parents' had their second date at a grocery store." He grinned. "Well aren't you too forward?" I chuckled a little. "Again, this is not a date."

"Shush, you speak too much. C'mon." He shushed me before putting his phone somewhere for a good angle and then setting a timer of 10 seconds. He came quickly by my side as we posed for the picture. The next thing we knew was the camera going off and clicking our picture. "Perfect!" Justin smiled after he grabbed his phone to look at the picture.

"We are meant to be, don't you think so too?" He smirked, showing me the picture. I playfully rolled my eyes at him. I looked at the phone's screen, my eyes analysing the picture. We actually were looking really good together. But was I going tell this to Justin? Never. "Very nice." I said sarcastically. There was the truth hidden in it somewhere. "Let's get these checked out now." I said and he hummed before grabbing the cart. We made our way towards the counter, ready to check everything out.

ˏˋ°•*⁀➷

When we came back home, the ice cream was served to everyone. Nonno didn't even taste his "favourite" ice cream, claiming that we were too late and he wasn't in the mood anymore.

Of course, I knew why wasn't he in the "mood" anymore. He was successful in his mission, it was of no use now.

Now, the Biebers were getting ready to leave to their house. "Charlotte come here, honey." Pattie smiled as Jeremy pulled a box out of her bag before smiling at me. "Yes?" I grinned and walked towards them.

"Thank you so much for the dinner, sweetie. It was wonderful. We loved spending time with you." She smiled. "This is for you." Jeremy smiled as he opened the box to reveal a sparkling diamond chandelier necklace by Bulgari. I gasped loudly, my eyes never leaving the necklace. I could see everyone grinning in the back from the corner of my eye. It was gorgeous and expensive. It must had costed them a lot.

"Thank you but I-I can't. This looks way too expensive." I shook my head, afraid to even touch it. "Consider this as our blessings for you." Jeremy smiled before handing the box to me. I looked at them, only to find them grinning at me. He slowly touched my side of my head, as if he was silently telling me that I had his blessings. "I can't wait for you to be daughter-in-law." Pattie pulled me into a heartwarming hug. I hugged her back, closing my eyes as a smile took over my face. "Thank you so much." I smiled softly before hugging Jeremy too.

I never knew they were this eager for me to marry Justin. Maybe this was the path I was supposed to be on. Maybe this won't end up being a nightmare as I thought it was going to be.

Maybe, Justin and I were meant to cross path for a good cause.

⎯⎯ ୨ ୧ ⎯⎯

Another night. Another gala.

Two days went by and I found myself yet in another gala. I was really over them by now. There was nothing interesting to do. I didn't want to waste my time by standing for hours and talking to people who couldn't care less about me. I was complaining about this the entire day to Mama. She said I won't have to go to galas so often after I get married. This ended with me complaining some more. I even tried to fake sickness but Nonno looked right through it.

So, here I was dressed in a custom one-of-a-kind Louis Vuitton satin and leather bustier and matching maxi skirt with thigh slit, designed by the talented Nicholas Ghesquière. I had paired them with Jimmy Choo 'Misty' Platform Sandals which were silver in colour. For makeup, I accentuated my eyes with thick winged liner. To complete the look, I painted my lips with matte red lipstick. I was even wearing the necklace, Jeremy and Pattie had gifted me and a diamond ring from the High Jewelry Cinemagia Collection.

Mr. I-know-everything decided to match with me tonight. I don't know how he got to know what I was wearing for tonight, nonetheless I was very surprised when I saw him.

He was wearing a white three-piece tuxedo, featuring a jacket with a black lapel, vest with black button and trousers. He was also wearing a pearl necklace from popular LA-based brand Ian Charms and diamond hoop earrings. He completed the look with a pair of black patent leather dress shoes. The fact that he was looking incredibly handsome tonight would be an understatement.

But it has been a while since I had seen him. "How long have you known Maya for?" I asked Sloan. He was more than happy to give me company when he found me standing alone. We were talking about him and Maya. He had told me that they got married last year and even showed me some pictures from that day. Maya was looking so gorgeous on her wedding day, I was almost into tears when I saw her pictures. How badly I wish I was there to see her dressed in a wedding dress with my own eyes.

"Since we were babies." He smiled. "Really?" I smiled big. "Yup. Our families are close friends with each other. We used to go to kindergarten together and did the rest of our schooling and college together too." He grinned. "That is so cute." I awe'ed. "Yeah, she is my best friend." He blushed. "When did you realise that you loved her?" I couldn't help but ask. "When we were eighteen." He answered while smiling. My smile widened even more.

Sloan and Maya's love looked so pure and real. They both grew up together and now they've vowed to grow old together too. They looked so deeply and madly in love. I wish I could have a love like theirs in my life too.

"I wish I could have a love like yours in my life too." I smiled softly. "Who knows? Maybe you already have it but you haven't recognised it yet." Sloan smirked making me look at him. "Maybe you just need to realise it is already here."

I was about to open my mouth to reply when Sloan's eyes widened. All of the sudden, he pulled me into his arms, trying to shield my body. A loud explosion echoed through the hall, followed by the screams of people.

My eyes widened as my heart beat picked up. I couldn't believe what had just happened. I was still trying to wrap my head around the situation when another explosion happened, just a little away from where we were standing at.

"CHARLOTTE WATCH OUT!"

---------------------------------------------------------

*gasps* Cliff hanger!

Hello again! How are you beautiful people?

Let me just address a few things first lol

As you can see I've changed one of the character's name. Andrew's wife's name used to be Ashley before but I've changed it to Alea. I really love this name lol. Just telling you all so there is no confusion. I'll change her name in other chapters too.

This is her new banner ^ p.s zendaya is so beautiful!

You can see two signs that I've added in this chapter. They both show an interval between two scenes.

⎯⎯ ୨ ୧ ⎯⎯ this shows a long interval whereas ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ this shows a short one.

Now back to this chapter.

Now that we know a little about Justin's past what do you think about it?

And let's pretend the manip of Justin and Barbara has a grocery store as its background 'cause i was too lazy to make an edit by myself

I don't have anything else to say lol, i just really wanted to update this book.

Anyways,

hope you guys liked this chapter 🤍