LA’s finest
By: Cyma Berk
Tags: Drama, Mystery, Romance

This is a story about aspiring screen writer, Hadley, who moves from a small town in Michigan to Los Angeles. On her way to California, she reunites with her high school ex boyfriend who offers to take her in due to financial issues. Their time together opens up doors of Hadley’s past that change the course of her life.

Bishop International Airport, Michigan

“Flight from BIA, Michigan to LAX, California, gate 44 will be boarding in approximately 9 minutes,” The speakers echoed through the walls of the airport.

“Damn it,” I ran out of the bathroom dragging my bags behind me. I’m never this unorganized. “Excuse me, sorry!” I said repeatedly as my clumsy feet stumbled into people. “Gate 41, 42, 43,” I looked up at the boarding screen. “Ah, gate 44.”

“We will now be boarding all coach customers,” The loudspeaker boomed.

“That’s me,” I whispered to myself. I dragged my big suitcase to the long, long line. “This could take a year, am I right?” I jested to the person behind me. All I got was a weird look, so I pressed my lips together and looked down at my phone. I opened my writer’s page and looked at all the comments.

MistyB1234

YOU HAVE TO WRITE MORE OF THIS OR ELSE I’LL DIE!!!!

Gm720

Love this story. Shared it with all my friends already haha

Corinne_xoxo

You got some real talent girl… Rock on!!

I smiled and stepped up in the line.

“Ticket please?” A deep voice said.

“Huh? Sorry,” I took out my wallet and rummaged through it to find the ticket, “Sorry, my wallet is a little full,” I said awkwardly. I even made myself cringe. “Found it,” I smiled apologetically and handed the man the the crumpled up, thin piece of paper.

The man nodded and handed my ticket back to me as I stepped onto the plane. The smells of the plane, so familiar. Even if you haven’t been on a plane in nearly eleven years, like me, you still recognize it. I found my seat pretty quickly. Window seat, hell yeah! As I got myself situated, a deep voice came on the loudspeaker.

“Hello! Welcome to Cap Airlines! This is your captain speaking, Captain Weiss. The flight from Michigan to California should take about 3 hours and 42 minutes. In case of emergency-” I zoned out. I put my phone on airplane mode and pulled out my computer and decided to do some private writing for a while. A blonde flight attendant made her way through the crowded aisle towards me.

“Ms. Stevens?” Her fake smile was irksome.

“What?” I viciously looked up at her.

“You’ve been moved up to first class.” She replied.

“Seriously?” Why me?

“Yes, Ms. Stevens. You are in seat 2A. Can I help you with your bags ?”

“I’m fine, thank you.” I gathered my stuff, and headed up to first class! I’ve never been in first class before. I’m thrilled.

As I approached my seat, I thought I saw a familiar face, “Eric Gates,” My jaw dropped. “What are you doing here?”

“Is that you, Hadley?” The boy, now man turned to me.

“Wow, it’s been a while,” I pushed up my glasses and looked him up and down. “You’ve really changed.” I couldn’t believe it.

“You have, too.” Eric sat down next to me.

“Is this your seat?” I asked hoping he’d say no.

“Yep, 2B,” Eric replied checking his ticket. “We have tons to catch up on. I haven’t seen you since senior year!”

I nodded, “I’m sure there’s a reason for that.”

“Look, Hadley. I was a different guy in high school, and you have every right to be mad. But I really have changed,” Eric looked me straight in the eyes. I couldn’t help looking at the clear ocean blue color of his.

“I believe you, but you really hurt me and you know that,” I explained. “Actually, nevermind. I don’t want to discuss this. It’s been years-”

“I have changed. I don’t know h0w to prove it to you, but I have,” Eric touched my arm.

Quickly, I pulled my arm away and folded them, “I hope that you did.” I sat in silence for a little thinking of what to say, “So, what’s bringing you to California?”

“I’m starring in a movie,” Eric responded.

“I guess you’ve always had a thing for getting caught up in drama,” I laughed.

Eric laughed along, “And you? Why are you going to Cali?”

“I’m a writer’s assistant for a screenwriter. You know I’ve always loved to write.” I replied.

“Yeah, I’ve read some of your stuff on that site actually. You have a lot of talent,” Eric winked at me.

“Thanks,” I blushed, but then I remember what he did and straightened myself out. Not knowing what to say, I cautiously pulled my computer out of my bag and opened it. The screen displayed one of my journal entries. I rummaged through my carry on looking for the cord to charge my computer and plugged it in.

“What are you writing?” Eric said after a minute. He looked over my shoulder.

“Not any of your business, thank you very much,” I turned my computer towards the window.

“Just wondering,” Eric backed off.

“Sorry, this is just private stuff.” I put my hair behind my ear.

“Ooh, about a boyfriend per say?” Eric chuckled as if he were in the tenth grade again.

“I don’t have a boyfriend,” I rolled my eyes and kept typing.

“Noted.” Eric smirked.

“Yeah, okay, don’t get any ideas,” I lightly elbowed him.

“I’m just kidding around,” he grinned. His dimples pulled my eyes toward them as if they were magnetic.

“I have to say, I’m pretty impressed that you got a starring movie role,” I closed my computer to avoid distraction.

“Yeah, I mean, I worked really hard for this role and I’m pretty excited,” Eric put his fingers through his hair.

“You ended up going to CalArt for drama, didn’t you?” I asked trying to remember his application in my hand six years ago.

“Nope, Julliard,” Eric corrected me.

“Really?” I asked in confusion, “But, you aren’t — nevermind.”

“What?” Eric looked at me.

“Nothing,” I shook my head and looked down at my lap.

“I’m not talented enough?” Eric laughed.

“That’s not what I meant,” I paused not knowing what to say.

“I actually worked really, really, really hard on audition day. It was always my dream school since Mr. Hernandez gave me the lead in the school play,” Eric explained in a cheerful manner.

“Oh, Mr. Hernandez,” I sighed. A sense of nostalgia came over me, “I’ll never forget the day he ‘accidentally’ walked into the girls dressing room during the musical.”

Eric broke into hysterical laughter, “I could hear the girls scream from the other side of the auditorium!”

I giggled along with him.

“How’d you like Michigan?” Eric asked.

“I mean, I’ve never really been outside of Michigan, so it was pretty similar I guess. I still lived at home,” I laughed reminiscing about how boring my life was.

“Why?” Eric asked.

“I mean, it’s not like we just had money to throw around and all my family lived in Michigan so I didn’t exactly have a reason to leave,” I responded.

“Of course you have a reason,” Eric said like one of those motivational speakers that stop twelve year olds from having sex and doing drugs.

“And what’s that?” I crossed my arms.

“The world is out there,” Eric put his hand on my shoulder and with his other hand, swayed it, piercing the air. “That has to be what you’re doing on this flight: exploring?”

“I’m just taking a job. There’s not much out there for me to explore. I’m not really that type,” I shrugged.

“Everyone has some kind of reach. Or at least a little fun.” Eric looked at his phone.

“Hey, I have tons of fun!” I fired back playfully.

“Yeah? What do you do for fun?” Eric asked, half-laughing.

“Write,” I replied bravely.

“Oh yeah, tons of fun,” Eric did jazz hands, just to add to the sarcasm.

I paused thinking of fun things I do, “Oh! And I knit and-”

“Stop right there, Grandma,” Eric joked. “You knit? For fun?”

“I’ll have you know, it’s very relaxing,” I scoffed. “You should try it, you know, for the experience.”

“Okay, how about this,” Eric cracked his knuckles. The sound of his fingers making that noise made me cringe, “After we land, I will try knitting.”

I grinned.

“Only if you will do the 60 hot wings challenge with me at the diner by the airport,” Eric maliciously smiled.

“No way,” I shook my head.

“Okay, be a chicken then,” Eric paused, “or eat some.”

Alright, how bad could this hot wings challenge be? “You know what? I’m in. Can’t wait to see you try to make me a scarf. My favorite color is purple by the way.”

“Or I could make you a rag to clean up all the hot sauce that’s going to be on your face after the hot wings challenge.” Eric raised his eyebrows.

“You’re good, Gates,” I felt like a kid again. Having fun and doing stupid things for no reason. Just because.

“Sorry for the wait, we will be taking off in T minus two minutes,” The captain said over the PA.

“I haven’t been on a plane in over a decade. I’m kind of scared,” I admitted.

“Are you afraid of heights?” Eric asked.

“Extremely,” I nodded pressing my lips together.

“What about roller coasters?”

Again, I nodded.

“Oh, boy,” Eric laughed.

“Told you I’m not the adventurous type,” I rested my chin on my hand.

“You’ll break out of your shell,” Eric looked me up and down.

I blushed a little, then recomposed myself. I hate that a part of was still drawn to him. I just had to keep reminding myself of the Eric I knew in high school. There’s no way he changed this much, and he was always a pretty good actor.

“Okay, please get seated and make sure your buckles are tightly fastened. There is a flight attendant in each section demonstrating safety procedures. Thank you. Enjoy your flight,” Hopefully that was the final announcement. That lady’s voice makes me want to stab knives in my ears.

“God, that lady’s voice is the most annoying thing in the world,” Eric rolled his eyes.

“I was just thinking the same thing,” I sighed. I felt a huge a push and my stomach must have jumped to my heart. “What was that?”

“The plane just moved, here, look out the window.” Eric reached over me and pulled up the window covers. The illuminating light from the outside nearly blinded me.

“Whoa!” I gasped in reaction to the light. Then, we started moving, like, a lot, and backwards. “Are we meant to be going backwards?”

“Yeah, we’re just pulling out into the runway,” Eric replied.

“So, it’s like a parking lot?” I asked.

“I guess, but way more spacious and it definitely serves different purposes,” Eric explained.

“Sorry for all the questions,” I bit my thumb in embarrassment.

“Don’t be, I like being the more knowledgeable one for once,” Eric laughed.

I blushed. Okay, Eric has made me blush like three times in the past five minutes. I was instantly put out of my state of engagement to him when the plane started going really fast. I looked out the window.

“Are you okay?” Eric asked.

“Um,” I was too jumbled to answer his simple question. “We’re just, um, going so fast.”

“Hey, it’s okay. I promise. It’s safe,” Eric paused. “You’re safe.”

And those were the words I needed to hear. I grabbed his hand, shut my eyes, and felt my stomach jump. I opened my eyes and looked out the window. We were going up towards the troposphere, or sky for those of you less educated.

“See? You’re okay,” Eric smiled sweetly.

“Yeah,” I exhaled. I realized what I was doing and let go of his hand. “Sorry.” My cheeks flushed red, and not because I was blushing.

“Anytime,” Eric nodded and stretched.

“I think I’m going to do some more writing and then maybe try to get some sleep.” I said.

“Go ahead, I won’t interrupt.” Eric put a neck pillow on and took out a book. It was a Shakespeare play.

“You’re reading Shakespeare?” I asked.

“Yeah, Othello,” Eric said, his eyes not leaving the page.

“Is this required for your role?” I asked, half-laughing.

“No. I read plays for pleasure. It helps me with my acting and study of character,” Eric explained.

“Huh, that’s cool,” I grinned. “I love Shakespeare.”

“I remember,” Eric yawned and leaned back in his seat.

“I’ll leave you to it,” I turned back to my computer and started typing away.

I think hours must have gone by before I passed out. I had already written eleven pages and it felt like no time at all. I invested a lot into this piece, I guess. It definitely knocked me out, though.

LAX Airport, Los Angeles

“Hey, we landed,” A voice said. “Hadley?”

“Hmm?” I groaned. Then I opened my eyes and realized that I was leaning my head on Eric Gates’s shoulder. I jolted up, “Sorry.”

“It’s more than okay” Eric laughed.

I rubbed my eyes and yawned, “Were you awake the whole time?”

“No, I took like a twenty minute nap,” Eric stretched.

“That’s nice. What time is it here?” I asked, taking out my pocket watch to adjust it.

“Almost seven,” Eric replied.

“Pm?” I gasped.

Eric nodded.

“Oh geez! My Airbnb reservation was an hour ago! I thought they said that we’d be in by 5:45!” I grunted and stood up.

“Hadley, it’s okay,” Eric stood up, too, “We’ll find a place for you to stay tonight, okay? I promise.” A warm, contagious smile spread across his face.

“Would you, um, pass me my bag, please?” I asked shyly.

“Of course,” Eric got down his suitcase, then mine. “You have stuff at baggage claim?”

I took my bag, “I don’t. Do you?”

Eric shook his head, “Hey, at least now we’ll have time for the 60 hot wings challenge.”

As much as I didn’t want to do it, I couldn’t back out. My reservation is late, and I don’t exactly have a place to stay, and I don’t have anything else to lose, so, “Can’t wait.”

“Look at you, taking risks and having fun. What a change!” Eric laughed sarcastically.

“Yeah, what a change,” I rolled my eyes.

“Let’s head,” Eric and I began to exit the plane. “Also, I have my own apartment in LA so if you want, I could just put some pillows down on the couch and you could take my bed.”

“I wouldn’t want to make any trouble,” I said politely.

“No trouble at all,” Eric paused. “Please, Hadley. I want you to.”

“I can just find a motel for the night. It’s no big deal, and besides. I think there’s one close to the movie set.” I replied.

“Happen to be along Santa Monica Boulevard?” He asked.

I nodded.

“It’s not called ‘LA suites’, is it?” Eric looked at me with a disgusted look on his face.

“Um, yeah, why?” I asked unsurely.

“Absolutely not. That place is revolting. They have a roach problem, and once my cousin found a roach in his carry on after the bellhop took it up.” Eric gagged at the thought of it.

“Ew,” I shivered in disgust.

“Seriously, just stay at my place. It’s no trouble at all, and you don’t have to pay.”

Okay, staying in the apartment of my ex-boyfriend from high school? It’s only one night, and it’s not like we’ll be staying in the same room. I guess it couldn’t hurt, “Alright, but just one night.”

Eric grinned. “Don’t worry. It’s not going to be awkward, I’ll just sleep on the couch, you can have the bed.”

“What? No!” I said, “I’m not going to kick you out of your own bed.”

“It really wouldn’t be a problem. I have to wake up early tomorrow as well, and I wouldn’t want to wake you.” Eric replied.

“I’m an early bird,” there was a long awkward pause. “Please, sleep in your own bed.”

“If you insist,” Eric laughed and rolled his eyes.

As we got off the plane and headed down to the parking lot, things felt natural. Like we were together again, and we ran away. It was almost perfect, except it wasn’t real. We weren’t together. Besides, it’s temporary. After tomorrow, I’ll doubtfully see him again in an unprofessional setting.

Eric opened the trunk, “I’ll take your bag now, madame.” His French accent was awful, but I couldn’t resist smiling a little.

“Thank you, good sir,” I played along. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw that this car was the same car my dad owned before he passed. The same exact one. It was cleaned up, but it was still the 1986 red mustang. It even had the rip my sister made on the seat when we were kids, but the plate was different. “Eric, where did you get this car?”

“After senior year, I came here to look for some kind of summer job behind the scenes, but I needed a car to get around and some guy sold me this for an insanely good price. Originally, I thought there was something wrong with it for a price so low, but man, I really think that guy was just generous or stupid.” Eric explained.

What if it really was dad’s? No, I’m crazy. The odds of that are so low. He was gone long before senior year. My stomach felt upset by the thought of dad and the plane ride. “Um, Eric? Is it okay if we do the hot wings thing another time? I’m just really jet lagged and tired, that’s all.”

“Fine by me,” Eric closed the trunk. “Hop in.”

“Welcome to la casa de Eric,” Eric flung the door open.

Wow. “Nice place,” I dragged my bag behind me as I looked around. Black leather furniture, huge plasma television, a marble dining table, polished floors, and a staircase leading up to a mezzanine with the master bedroom and bathroom and a balcony.

“I’ll bring you pillows and a blanket for the couch.” He dropped off his bag in his room, then went to the closet.

“Thanks,” I shyly smiled and pushed my glasses up. Eric went back into his room. I turned around seeing a full window looking out on Los Angeles. I slowly walked up to it and smiled. It’s like my future in the palm of my hand.

“Enjoying the view?”

I quickly turned around, “Sorry, you startled me.”

“No worries,” Eric grinned. “Just dropping off your sheets and grabbing some water. Can I offer you any?”

“With those manners, I just have to accept,” I turned back to the window.

“What time do you have to be at the movie set?” Eric asked.

“Ten AM sharp.” I checked my phone to be certain.

“You’re kidding, I don’t have to be anywhere until eleven. It’d be my pleasure to drive you.” Eric offered.

“You’ve already done so much for me,” I turned to him.

Eric walked up to me and gave me the glass of water, “What’s the address?”

I showed him my phone.

He laughed in a slightly devious but playful manner.

“What?” I chirped.

“Hadley, I think we’re working in the same movie. In that I’m acting and you’re writing.” Eric’s smirk accentuated his dimple even more.

“Are you kidding?” I blundered.

“I’m not,” Eric laughed even more.

“Well then. I’ll, um, see you tomorrow business partner?” Oh, lord I am the most awkward person on the earth.

“You kicking me out?”

“What! Of course not,” I reassured.

“Hadley,” Eric touched my left elbow, “I’m completely joking.” He paused and grinned, “You really haven’t changed at all.” He took a deep breath, “It kind of feels like home seeing you.”

I could barely breathe, “It is really nice to see you again, as well, Eric.”

Eric wanted to kiss me. I could tell. I even remember in sophomore year the first time he kissed me.

After the first football game of the season, his team lost. It was around ten thirty and I sat in the bleachers, staring at the stars after everyone left. Eric came out devastated, still with his sweaty jersey on, and sat next to me. After hours of talking, my little flip phone rang and it was my mom. He drove me home, and before I got out, he grabbed my hand. He looked at me the same way he’s looking at me right now. Only this time, I didn’t kiss him.

“Good night, Eric. Thank you for everything.” I said as genuine as I could. I meant it. I mean, he provided me food, shelter, and even a bit of closure.

“Good night, Hadley.” Eric’s soft voice sent chills up my spine. I hate that I keep having to remind myself that Eric and I have nothing anymore. Our time has passed.

An extravagant view comes with a price; blinding sunlight. Usually I wake up before that, but jet lag hit me I suppose. Slowly, I opened my eyes and blinked a few times. There was some kind of smoothie and a note on the side on the coffee table. I read the note.

Early bird, huh? Just kidding. I’m in the shower right now. I made you a smoothie with strawberries, blueberries, and bananas. If you want anything else, just check the fridge.

-EG

I couldn’t decide whether he really changed or if he was just pretending to so he could have sex with me or something. I fully sat up and sipped on the smoothie. It tasted so healthy. Despite my thin physique, I eat a great deal of junk food.

I poured what was left of my smoothie into the sink and rinsed the glass. I typically don’t eat breakfast. I’ll have a cup of coffee or green tea, but rarely a proper meal. Even the fruit smoothie was a lot for me. I heard footsteps coming down the stairs.

“Good, you’re awake,” Eric beamed.

“Sorry, jet lag kind of dropped a load on me.” I chuckled nervously. I could feel my heart rate slightly speed up.

“No worries. Do you want to shower or anything? We still have lots of time before we have to be on set.” He offered as he adjusted the collar of his baby blue button-up.

“Actually, that would be nice.” I nodded.

“Of course. Use my shower, though. There’s already clean towels and the shower head in the guest bathroom can be unreliable.” Eric laughed.

“Okay, I can be quick if we need to get a move on,” I dug into my suitcase to get clean clothes for the day.

“Take your time,” Eric’s warm voice was so soothing. “There may be some women’s shampoo and conditioner that belonged to my ex under the sink.” Not so soothing anymore.

“I’m just going to tie my hair up for the day, but thank you. Really.” I grinned and raced up the marble stairs. I didn’t want to keep him waiting, but I have to say, I am curious about his ex. I mean, if her stuff is here, that means they moved in together. If they moved in together, they were probably in love. I wonder if Eric is still in love with her. Or is it possible that Eric is still in love with me? No, I’m crazy. If he genuinely changed this much in less than six years, it’s no question that he’s over me.

Figuring out a shower that you’re not accustomed to is like the government broke down your door and are ordering you to fly a futuristic spaceship and you just have to do it. You have no idea what to do and it’s too weird to ask for help. Also, you’re naked. I swear this shower is from another dimension. There are four shower heads and only three handles. It is just illogical at this point.

I felt bad when I was with Eric in his car. Rather than focusing on him, I looked around for clues leading to my father. The gash in the back seat had to be from May, my younger sister. It was in the same exact place. It even had the same gray duct tape on it.

“Right, Hadley? Hadley?” Eric repeated.

“Sorry, yeah. I was just distracted.” I explained.

“What’s on your mind?” He asked as he made a turn.

I didn’t want to tell him about my dad just yet. He knew that my dad wasn’t in the picture, but he doesn’t know the full circumstances, “It’s just so new for me.”

“It’s amazing how quickly you get settled in,” He sighed. “I mean, once you get here you never want to leave. It’s like the ocean is fine wine and the atmosphere is a drug. California, especially Hollywood, is almost too perfect.”

“Nothing’s perfect, Eric,” I said sourly, “but you’re similes are impressive.”

“Why, thank you, madame.” Eric playfully smiled. “Actually, I think you’re wrong.” He paused. “I can think of something absolutely perfect.”

“And that is?” I crossed my arms. If he said me, it would have been sweeter than the icing on the cake for my sixteenth birthday.

The car stopped abruptly before Eric ended up saying anything, “Sorry. That idiot came out of nowhere. You all right?”

I nodded, “Are you?”

“Always,” Eric winked. What a flirt.

We pulled into the parking lot of the set. A short, chunky man with brown, receding hair ran up to Eric.

“Mr. Gates, I’m so sorry. I forgot your coffee, for I was not informed of your early arrival to set. I did not bring your guest a coffee either, for I was not informed you were bringing a guest. I saw your car pull in from the lobby.” The short man was incredibly out of breath.

“David,” Eric got out of the car and put his hand on the man’s shoulder, “you’re good. She’s not really a guest. She works here, too. Her name is Hadley Stevens. Would you shadow her today? Make sure she gets everywhere she needs to be.”

“Will you be alright on your own, Mr. Gates?” David asked.

“Absolutely. Thanks, David.” Eric patted him on the back twice then pulled me in close and whispered to me, “Text me if you need anything. I airdropped you my work and personal contact information. Text my personal.”

I nodded.

“Are you due in a certain location?” David asked me.

“Yes, room R3A.” I replied.

David’s face looked terror-stricken. “Are you sure it’s R3A?”

I showed him the email from the company.

After looking at it for a minute, David lead me into the building. “Who exactly are you working for?”

“His name is Arjun Briar.” I read the name off my phone.

“You must be pretty talented, then.” David said.

“Thank you, but why draw that conclusion?” I asked.

“If you didn’t know, Mr. Briar has been in the top ten most successful screenwriters in the world since the eighties.” David explained.

“How did I not know that. I was so busy writing scripts for him I didn’t even brush up on researching Mr. Briar at all.” I felt a sense of panic and forgetfulness. Usually, I am on top of things like this.

“Hadley, was it? I don’t think you should be worried. He usually doesn’t meet with his assistants until weeks, sometimes even months after working with them. Mr. Briar must be very impressed with you.” David eased my anxiety.

“Really?” I beamed.

“Wouldn’t doubt it,” David replied.

We approached room R3A. My heart beat sped up, which also increased the ATP flowing through my body so I was jumpy. Who needs coffee, anyway?

“I’ll leave you to it.” David turned and walked down the hall to the elevator.

“Thank you,” I said graciously. I took a breath and knocked on the door.

About eleven seconds passed before Mr. Briar opened the door. “Who the hell are

you?” His eyebrows curved inwards.

“I’m Hadley Stevens. I’m one of your assistants. I’m due in this office right now.” I explained straightforwardly. I learned from very early on how to talk to powerful people like this. Be smart, but not too smart. Don’t show fear, but don’t show confidence. There is always a gray area.

“Ah, you’re the anonymous Hadley,” Mr. Briar nodded and invited me into his office.

“Andrea, get out of my office. Now, please.”

The old woman shakily stood, and without a word, left the office.

“Parents, am I right?” Mr. Briar chuckled. I couldn’t tell if he was joking, so I just lightly giggled and sat in the chair across from him. “Hadley, you have done a terrible thing.”

My face dropped, “Pardon?”

“Yes. You did a terrible, terrible thing.” He paused. “You keep yourself anonymous online. Do you have any idea how much extra work I had to do to track you down?”

“I apologize for my hardships, sir. I keep myself anonymous because I’d prefer to keep myself out of the spotlight.” I replied.

“Are you living in Los Angeles now?” He asked.

“I still have to get settled in,” I dodged. I didn’t want Mr. Briar to think that I’m some homeless junkie.

“Since you live here, keeping yourself out of the spotlight is not exactly an option, sweetheart.” Mr. Briar stated.

I didn’t know what to say.

“It is a crime to keep yourself anonymous. What about your first book? Plan to keep that anonymous, too?” Mr. Briar asked bitterly.

“I’ve never really thought about it,” my hands started to sweat.

Mr. Briar’s eyes narrowed, “You obviously have never taken anything seriously in your whole life. You are lucky that I’m not going to fire you.” He took a breath. “You have too much talent to waste it. Starting this Monday, you will get to this office no later than eight every morning and leave no earlier than eight at night. If that’s a problem you may walk out now.”

Let’s see — I don’t have a car, let alone a proper home. At least for the next day or so, I have to base my schedule off of Eric’s. I can’t borrow money. I can’t call a cab every morning, but it’s too expensive to buy my own car. This is most definitely a problem. “Not a problem, sir.”

“That’s what I like to hear.” Mr. Briar grinned. “Now, go get me a copy of the script so I can make final edits.”

“Where would I get a copy?” I asked sweetly.

“Figure it out,” he chuckled.

I anxiously stood from my seat and opened the door. Outside stood David, “David! I’m so glad you’re here. I need a copy of the script for Mr. Briar.”

“Are you Mr. Briar’s personal assistant now?” David asked.

“I don’t think so, but he offered to mentor me and help me with publishing works of my own.” I replied. If I’m being honest, I’m very excited. I haven’t really thought about proper publishing, mostly because I don’t crave publicity. However, it’s always been a dream of mine to be a successful writer. I guess the two contradict a little bit, but I don’t like the idea of people waiting outside in the rain or cold to get one signature and a hug from me. I like being that person waiting outside. I like being inside of things and being in the real world. Fortune leads to success, and success leads to fame, but fame leads to loneliness and essentially living in a bubble. I don’t want to live in a bubble. I just want to be a real person.

David’s face dropped, “Script copies are on the second floor.” He scurried away like a rodent. Weird.

That’s not very specific. I sighed and made my way down a flight of stairs.

I must have taken two laps around the entire floor before I finally just decided to ask somebody, “Excuse me. Can you direct me to the room with the script copies?”

The man turned around. “You’re standing in it.” His voice was very deep.

“Do you know where I could grab a copy? It’s for Mr. Briar.” I explained.

The big, dark, bald man with a deep voice looked as if he shriveled up like a dead flower. He nodded, and without saying a word, handed me a copy.

“Thank you,” I smiled, “have a nice day.”

No response.

I raced up the stairs to Mr. Briar’s room and knocked on the door.

“Who is it?” He boomed.

“Hadley!” I called.

“Enter,” Mr. Briar commanded.

I walked through the door.

“Close the door,” another imperative, “and sit, please. Hand me the script.”

I did just as he said. Mr. Briar does not seem like the type of person that you would want to disobey 0r upset. I can imagine that an enraged version of him would be frightening. His mood swings are also quite unsettling, especially due to my weakness of reading people. All I want to do for Mr. Briar is please him, but how can I do that if I never know what he wants from me?

“Hadley!” A voice called for me as I walked out of the office building by the set. As I looked around, I saw Eric, waving his hand in the air.

I walked towards him with a grin, “Did you wait for me?”

He nodded, “I had to. I know you don’t have a place to stay yet, or a car. I want to be here for you.” He opened the passenger’s seat door.

“Eric, you don’t have to do this. You’ve already done more than enough.” I was so happy and grateful, but I felt guilty.

“Get in the car,” Eric’s eyes gleamed at me.

I stiffly grinned, and sat in the leather seat. I felt something weird that I hadn’t felt since I was back home in Michigan — security. I feel safe with Eric. I trust him. Don’t I? I mean, I spent a year and a half with him being the one of the most important people in my life. He was my rock, and now he is my rock again. Eric is giving me himself for me to fall back on. He literally is letting me sleep at his apartment, driving me back and forth, and so many other things.

“So I hear from David that you are Mr. Briar’s apprentice,” Eric said while starting the car.

“He, um, offered to mentor me,” I blushed.

“He’s a big deal, that Arjun Briar. Just be careful, though,” Eric looked at his right mirror and backed out of the parking lot.

“Careful?” I asked.

“He can be,” Eric searched his mind for the word, “hardcore.”

I laughed, “I noticed.”

Eric’s eyes hardened, “Hadley, I’m serious.”

I asked him to elaborate.

“Arjun Briar is a dangerous man.” Eric moved his eyes back to the road, turning onto the highway.

Would he just spit it out already? “What do you mean?”

“Look, you just got here and I don’t want to scare you. Just always stand your ground, okay? Hollywood isn’t all sunshine and smiles. There’s a lot of really fucked up people.” Eric quickly turned his head back to the road.

“Is Mr. Briar one of those fucked up people? You’re kind of scaring me saying that you don’t want to scare me,” I scoffed.

“We can talk about it later.” I felt like he was treating me like a child. We are both adults, and he shouldn’t have to keep professional information from me.

“Pull over.” I demanded.

“What?” Eric glanced at me, confused. “We just got onto the highway.”

“You heard me. Pull over!” I raised my voice.

Eric began to slow down and pulled over, “What’s wrong?”

“You’re telling me to stand my ground?” We came to a stop. “Tell me what the hell you’re talking about. Everyone who knows I’m working for him acts so secretive and fearful when I just say his name.”

“Hadley, it’s not that simple,” Eric softened his voice.

“I don’t care. Tell me anyway,” my eyes narrowed and stared into his.

Eric looked away.

“Tell me, Eric.” I growled.

“What’s the matter with you? I’m trying to protect you, and you’re acting crazy.” Eric turned his head towards me again.

I felt my heart pulse in my ears and my blood boiling, “I don’t need to be protected. I’m not a kid.”

“You don’t have half the experience I have in this world. You have it easy for now,” Eric responded.

How were we already fighting? “You think that this has been easy for me? Moving here all at once and trying to get my financial shit together hasn’t exactly been a breeze. All I want to do is know why everyone is so scared that I’m working for this man. I mean, aren’t we all working for him?”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that,” he tried to console me and rubbed my back.

“I just agreed to Mr. Briar that I would come in no later than eight A.M. every morning, leave no earlier than eight P.M. every night, and work my ass off for him throughout all those twelve hours. I don’t even have a place to stay or enough money to rent! I don’t have a car, I don’t have a home, and I don’t have a future out here.” Uncontrollable tears rolled down my face. I opened the car door and got out and started to walk along the side of the highway.

Eric jumped to his feet and ran after me, “Hadley, get back in the car! Where the hell are you going?”

“I don’t know.” I broke down.

Eric embraced me tightly, trying to lift me up, “Everything is going to be okay. You can stay at my place for as long as you need and I will drive you to set at eight am and drive you back twelve hours later. You do have a future here, okay? You have so much talent and after this job passes, you will move on to beyond amazing things, and probably be even more successful than me.”

I looked up at him with a flush of helplessness in my face and tried to take a few breaths, “I’m sorry.”

“I get it. It’s not so easy for the first few out here,” Eric put his jacket around me. “Let’s say we get back into that car and I’ll get you some hot chocolate. Sound good?”

I nodded and followed him back to the car, clutching the side of his brown leather jacket that reeked of men’s body spray.

I sat down on the tall bar stool across from Eric as a waitress with countless tattoos and the stench of cigarettes approached our table with waters.

“A beer for me, and a hot chocolate for the lady.” Eric ordered.

“Yes, sir,” the waitress disappeared into the kitchen.

“I didn’t know we were drinking,” I chuckled.

“You don’t have to,” he checked the time.

“I know, but now I kind of want to.” I replied.

“Is this the same Hadley Stevens from Dyrewood High?” He asked as we both broke into laughter.

“I could throw quite a few shots back in college.” I bragged.

“Well, then,” Eric cleared his throat. “Can we get a round of tequila shots, actually?”

The waitress came back over, “Including the beer and hot chocolate?”

I shook my head.

“Alright,” the waitress huffed and walked back to the kitchen.

“Tequila? Really?” I groaned.

“Can’t take it?” Eric’s competitive demeanor humored me.

“You wish. I’m just surprised you chose my favorite,” I smirked.

“Oh, is it really?” He asked sarcastically.

“One hundred percent,” I pushed my glasses up and smiled.

He crossed his arms and sat back in his chair. He started to laugh a little.

“What?” I playfully rolled my eyes.

“Life is just,” Eric paused and took a breath, “funny.”

“Okay, we haven’t even started drinking yet.” I chuckled at my own joke.

“Just look at us.” He paused. “We’re started out as ordinary Michigan grown little kids and now we’re in Los Angeles, and despite everything that happened, we still found our way back to each other.”

I simpered as the waitress put eight shots in front of us, “Here’s to us.” I took the first shot, then comforted the bitter taste on my tongue with the lime. It burned my throat, but I refused to cough or gag. I don’t want Eric to see me as the same girl that I was in high school, because I’m not.

Effortlessly, Eric downed a shot, too. Then another, and another until he even touched the lime.

Suddenly, childish impulsive and competitive instincts kicked in: I had to drink the rest of my shots before he finished his. I plugged my nose drank the other three as fast as I could. I wanted to throw up. Sucking on the lime didn’t help at all.

“Damn, Hads,” Eric laughed and sipped on his water. “Nice try, but I finished mine first.” He winked.

“We’re done?” I pretended to be confused.

“Okay,” Eric huffed, “very cute, Hadley, but you just took four shots. I know that you’re still a lightweight.”

He was right. I’ll be shitfaced by the time I arrive back at his apartment, “Eric, please. I’m an adult, and I know my alcohol tolerance a hell of a lot better than you do.”

“Personally, I don’t really want to drink more. I still have to drive us back home,” he said, “but whatever you want to do.”

“Well, there’s no fun in being drunk alone,” I quickly said. Thank god he didn’t want to drink any more.

Eric signaled to the waitress to bring us the check.

I started to pull out my wallet.

“Hadley, don’t,” he lightly touched my hand.

“Please,” I sighed, “it’s the least I can do.”

“The least you can do is save money for either an apartment or house, and I won’t let you spend it on frivolous things like tequila.” Eric pulled a black card out of his wallet and handed it to the waiter with the check. He was right, though. I should get out of his hair as soon as I can.

“Thank you,” I shyly grinned. My vision started to blur. I took off my glasses, cleaned them with my breath and sweater, then put them back on. Of course my vision isn’t blurry because of my glasses. It’s the tequila.

The waitress came over with the check.

Eric flashed the waitress a smile of gratitude and began to fill out the payments. He

put his card in the check-holder. “I don’t want you to spend a cent when you’re with me. In all honesty, I have more money than I know what to do with. I don’t have a wife that I can buy shoes and handbags for. I don’t have children that I can send to fancy private schools. My parents won’t accept money from me when I try to pay their bills. I’m only going to get more money with this movie coming out next year.”

“I wish that I had these problems,” I sighed, “and you are really a saint. I can’t let you spoil me like this, though. I’m not your girlfriend, at least not anymore.” I batted my eyes at him. Alcohol always makes me flirtatious. “I don’t want to be dependent on you forever, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t want you in my life.”

“That’s sweet of you, Hadley. I want you in my life, too,” he smiled. I wanted to kiss him so bad, but that’s probably just the tequila talking.

The waitress came back and took the check-holder off the table.

“It seems like you’re feeling better now,” Eric remarked.

“I’m feeling amazing,” a goofy grin spread across my face.

Eric laughed at me, “It’s kind of funny to see you let loose. You should try the wine back at my place. It’s Italian: Dolcetto.”

“Sounds sweet, because dolce means sweet in Italian. Get it?” The room started to spin and I began to breathlessly laugh.

He snickered and glanced at his watch. “It’s getting pretty late. I recommend that you just go right to sleep when we get back.”

“The night’s just getting started!” The shots have officially taken over my mouth. I could control my thoughts, but not anything I was actually saying. My filter was nonexistent. All I could do was wonder how the hell am I still a lightweight at twenty four. I mean, isn’t this when I’m supposed to be able to drink until my liver collapses?

The waitress handed Eric the check-holder.

Eric signed the slip of paper, put his card back into his wallet, thanked the waitress and stood up. “Okay, Hadley. Let’s go.”

I stood from the chair, but my legs felt like jello. As I walked towards the door, I lost my balance and slipped.

Eric caught me just before I hit the ground, and put my arm around his shoulder. “Jesus, you only took four shots.”

“So did you,” I whined. Eric was so dreamy. “You’re so dreamy.” Oh geez, did I really just say that out loud? “I mean, I’m so dreamy,” That really didn’t sound much better.

Eric continued to snicker as we approached the car. He took out his key and rested me up against the hood so he could open the door on the other side. After he unlocked the doors, he came back over to me, put his hand around my waist, and helped me into the front seat. “Put your seatbelt on, and watch your feet.” He slammed the door shut, then came in on the other side and turned on the ignition.

I struggled to get my seatbelt on. All of this is so embarrassing. Why on earth did I think it was a good idea to drink my first night in Los Angeles? I knew I’d get carried away.

“Need some help?” Eric took the seat belt tongue from my hand and clicked it into the buckle.

“Wow, you’re fancy,” I giggled.

Eric turned his head to the windshield and leaned back in the seat. He put on his seatbelt, without struggling, and stuck the keys in the ignition.

As we drove through East Hollywood, I felt exhausted. All the turns and stops Eric seemed sharp and abrupt. I was glad when we finally reached the parking lot.

Eric turned off the car and got out. He opened the door for me and took my hand to help me out of the car.

I was too wasted to look for more traces of my father, but I couldn’t stop making up unrealistic scenarios in my head.

“How are you feeling?” Eric asked.

I couldn’t concentrate on what he said, so I just smiled. I leaned on his shoulder for support, “I’m sorry,” I said.

“You’re slurring your words, Hads. What did you say?” He pressed the elevator button.

“I’m sorry,” I tried to say clearer.

“Whatever for?” Eric walked me into the elevator.

“I am such a stupid mess,” I felt like I was drowning in my own words, “I’m broke, homeless, and drunk, and you have to help me. That isn’t fair. I need to do something for you, or else karma will bite me in the butt.”

Eric laughed and looked down, then looked back up at me. “You aren’t a mess. It’s just taking some time for you to settle in, and that isn’t your fault. You’re also in Hollywood; you’re supposed to have fun. I’m happy to help.”

I have no idea what happened to Eric Gates in the past five years. The shallow, careless, playful socialite had become a well-mannered, respectful, professional actor. It almost seemed like a parallel universe.

Eric helped me out of the elevator as the doors opened. As we walked down the hall, and I just had to look at him. I still love him.

An alarm that I didn’t remember setting went off. I abruptly woke up with a massive headache. My empty stomach growled, but I didn’t know whether it demanded food or a trip to the bathroom. I rubbed my eyes and reached over for my phone to check the time. However, my phone wasn’t there. It took me a minute to realize where I actually was, and of course, I was in Eric’s bedroom. Worry flowed through my body, hoping I didn’t sleep with him. My underwear was on, and I was in an oversized tie dyed shirt. I picked up my glasses that must have fallen on the floor in my sleep, and put them on. Despite my pounding headache, I stumbled out of his bedroom and down the stairs.

Eric was in the kitchen cooking eggs on the stove. He looked up, “Good morning, party girl.”

“I’m so sorry about last night,” I sat down on the couch and put my face in my hands.

“No worries,” he smiled and brought me over two aspirin and a glass of water. “You must have a killer headache.”

“I do,” I swallowed the pills and chugged the water. “Thank you, Eric. I hope I didn’t sleep talk or anything.”

Eric chuckled, “Hadley, I slept on the couch.”

“Of course you did,” I awkwardly laughed. I leaned my head on my hand.

Eric smiled at my self deprecation, “We do have to leave in twenty minutes, though.”

That startled me. Usually it takes me around twenty five minutes to be completely ready, but I can just shower when I get back and tie my hair up again for the day.

The day was the same as the one before, except I was starting to find my way around the building and keep Mr. Briar happy at the same time. I figured things would get easier and I would learn more as time progressed.

The clock read 7:53 P.M.. I anxiously waited for Mr. Briar to come back to his office and dismiss me for the day.

A minute later, he barged in, “Hadley.” He boomed.

“Yes, Mr. Briar?” I looked up at him.

“You will get your check at the end of the week,” Mr. Briar remarked.

“Thank you for letting me know.” I grinned.

“You can go now, if you want to,” he sat down in his black leather armchair, which seemed so comfortable compared to my small wooden one.

“Okay,” I got up and placed my papers in my folder, then neatly stuffed the folder into my purse. “Have a good night, sir.”

“You too, Hadley,” he didn’t look up from the script he was reading.

I left his office and stopped to put on my chapstick. Then, I heard Mr. Briar grunt in frustration and throw something heavy onto the ground. Without being nosy, I continued walking and headed to the parking lot.

Sure enough, Eric stood outside, waiting for me, “He let you out early tonight, huh?”

I looked at the time, reading 7:58 P.M., “I suppose he did.”

“How was the day?” Eric asked as he opened the passenger door for me.

“Excellent. I am learning the lay of the land and he said my first check would come Saturday, so I can finally get out of your space.” I gleamed.

A sort of upset expression spread across Eric’s face. After a pause, he asked, “Well, do you know your salary?”

“I know how much I get paid an hour. This paycheck should have $1,600 which will be more than enough to rent a studio apartment.” I explained.

“Not for long in this city,” he barely laughed. “Hadley, what about food? And your phone bill, and clothes and-”

“I can’t lie and tell you I’ve thought this all through.” I uttered.

“That’s why I want you to stay with me for a bit until I know you’re financially stable here.” Eric looked away from the road at me. “I’ve thought about it a lot and I think that’s safest for you.”

“And I truly appreciate how kind you are to want to do that, but you know me, Eric. You do. You know I won’t let you take care of me like a babysitter.” That’s how I felt. Like Eric had to babysit me. He was right: I am not financially stable. However, this paycheck will start getting me somewhere, and without his help.

“This isn’t babysitting if I’m offering.” I didn’t know what to say to that. A long awkward pause lingered throughout the car, “I missed you, Hadley.”

“Eric, I missed you, too. But that doesn’t mean that you can just let me take over your life.” I didn’t want him to make compromises for me.

I knew Eric was about to say something, so I shut up and let the silence resonate.

Finally he said, “I did once.” And look how well that ended.

I didn’t know what to say. I felt something run up my back that I hadn’t felt since high school: desire. I looked out the window for an answer but saw nothing but an endless, crowded highway and trees looking out onto the beach.

“I’m sorry,” Eric shook his head, “I made it weird.”

“No, you didn’t,” I exclaimed in reassurance, “in all seriousness, I can’t thank you enough for what you’ve done already. I don’t know what I could do for you in return if you keep this up.”

“It’s just,” again, Eric paused in thought, then finished his sentence, “the twinkle in your eyes when you came into my apartment. I didn’t want that expression to leave your face.”

I blushed and teared up a tiny bit, but I bit my tongue. I had forgotten the heart this boy had. The awkwardness of our conversation brought me back to high school.

“I know I’m rambling,” he went on, “but you know I’m a family man at heart.”

“I know.” I interrupted him. I tried to let on that I didn’t want this dialogue to go anywhere too far, but I think he was having a moment.

“I feel like I’m providing for you, and it’s kind of like the sixteen year old dream we, or I,” he stuttered, “always thought about.” As he finished there was a gloomy look in his eye when he glanced at me.

I wanted to make him feel better, but I didn’t want to continue where he did, “It’s not like I didn’t think about it, too. But we were not healthy, Eric. Aren’t we a little too mature for all this?” I solemnly asked him.

“We’re both very different from who we were in high school,” Eric turned onto his street.

“I suppose that no one could argue with that.” I tried to lighten the mood. “That’s why we need to rise above these old feelings. That’s all they are.”

His face froze, but a grin bled through, “So you’re having feelings, too.”

My cheeks flushed red, “Shut up!” I playfully smacked his arm and laughed.

He pulled over in front of his building and took his apartment keys out of his jacket pocket, “Go on up. I’m going to park,” he handed me the keys, “I’ll be home soon.” A warm, welcoming smile spread across his face. He was close to me, too close.

“Thanks,” I quickly said and stumbled out of the car. As he drove to find parking, I examined the car, once again. It was too familiar. Something just didn’t feel right about it, but I can’t just interrogate Eric about the car. He would be suspicious.

I waited for him on the couch in his apartment, thinking about everything he said. How he mentioned old feelings, and how I’m feeling them, too. I worked so hard to be independent and content without him. If I give myself to him all over again, all the self-growth will be for nothing. Eric is my past, LA is my future.

The doorbell rang. I went to the door and peered through the peephole to make sure that it was Eric, but it wasn’t.

At the door stood a tall, skinny woman with dark hair. She looked like one of the models you see on the cover of magazines. She was stunning.

As I opened the door, a disgusted look spread across her flawless face.

“Who are you?” She asked bluntly.

“Hi,” I nervously replied, “I’m Hadley. What’s your name?”

“Where’s Eric?” She strutted into the apartment, though I hadn’t told her she could come in.

“He’s just, um, parking his car,” I stammered.

“So, who are you? What are you doing in his apartment?” She crossed her arms and glared at me.

This was a complicated question that I was ashamed to give her the answer for. She was so sleek and so elegant. Extremely rude, but I didn’t want her to know of my financial instability, so I said, “I could ask you the same thing. I don’t even know your name.”

She rolled her eyes, “Victoria. Victoria Mercier. I’m sure you’ve heard of me before.”

I hadn’t.

Just in time, Eric strolled in with his suitcase. His face turned pale when he saw Victoria, “Vic, what are you doing here?”

“What is she doing here?” Victoria pointed to me.

“That’s none of your business,” Eric set his suitcase down on the kitchen counter and walked up to her. “You need to go.”

“Not until we talk,” she demanded, “upstairs.”

As she began to walk up the stairs, Eric grabbed her arm, “No. We can talk outside if it’s that important that you had to come here unannounced.”

“Because of her? Who even is she?” Victoria whined.

“She doesn’t concern you,” He glanced at me, then looked back at her. “Let’s go outside.”

Again, she rolled her eyes. When Eric turned to the door, she purposefully dropped her lip gloss. I could tell what she was doing. She dropped her lip gloss so she would have an excuse to come back in again. A girl knows a thing or two about what girls do to get their way.

I waited for them to both be outside the front door before I picked up her lip gloss. It must have been designer lip gloss or something. I had never seen anything like it. The only makeup I’ve ever used is drugstore makeup. It was so sparkly.

“Sorry, excuse me,” I handed her the gorgeous lip gloss, “you dropped your lip gloss.”

She snatched it out of my hands. Her long, fake nails left a scratch on my index finger, “Uh, if you’ll excuse us? We’re obviously having a conversation here.”

“Do not be rude to her.” Eric boomed.

“Who even is she?” She asked him for the second time.

I hate drama. It ruins everything. It ruined my freshman year of college and it ruined my relationship with Eric before. I closed the door and left them to their conversation.

I made up the couch as a bed, then opened my computer to review my schedule for tomorrow. Before I knew it, Eric was back and Victoria was gone.

“I’m so sorry about that. That must have been really weird for you,” Eric sat down next to me, rearranging the sheets that I had just set down.

“It’s okay,” I sighed and closed my computer, “I’m sorry you had to deal with that. Who is she, though? She’s beautiful.”

“My ex-girlfriend. She’s crazy,” he chuckled uncomfortably, “she took the breakup really badly.”

“How long were you guys together?” I felt like I was asking too many questions about her. I was just curious, though.

“Not nearly as long as we were together,” Eric inched a bit closer to me on the couch, “it was about a year. We just moved too fast, you know?”

“Yeah,” neither of us said a word for a long moment.

“We’re like a hundred percent over though,” he reassured me, “She just can’t wrap her head around it.”

“I guess I kind of understand where she’s coming from.” I looked over at him.

He looked back at me, “It’s not like you ever showed up at my house unannounced.”

We both started laughing. An awkward silence lingered after.

“It’s getting late,” I finally murmured.

“Late? It’s only nine!” He got up to go to the kitchen and opened the top cabinet. He reached for a bottle of chardonnay, “Here, I’ll pour you a glass.”

I sat in the barstool on the other side of the kitchen counter. I had never tried chardonnay. I didn’t know if it was like the white wine that my grandmother let me take sips of when I was thirteen or the tequila that had gotten me wasted the night before, “I’ll pass.”

“Hadley, I promise you will barely get tipsy from this. It’s just chardonnay,” he poured his glass to the top, then filled mine half way, “and if you don’t want it, I’ll just have to drink yours.”

“What is it, like, wine?” I asked. I must have sounded so naïve.

“Exactly, but fancier,” Eric smirked and handed me my glass, “cheers!” He raised his glass.

“What are we toasting to?” I swirled the beverage around.

“How about,” he paused and looked around his apartment, then back at me, “to reconnecting.” The smile that spread across his face was too familiar. I couldn’t explain how it made me feel.

I smiled lightly back at him and took a sip. It was delicious, but it was dangerous. I tried to think of a way to change the subject, but it didn’t seem smart to talk about his ex-girlfriend.

“You know,” I finally said, “I’m getting pretty tired.”

He sighed and set his glass on the counter, “Are you sure you don’t want to sleep in my room tonight? I just feel bad that you’re always on that little couch.”

I looked at him, puzzled, because I didn’t understand whether he wanted me to sleep in his bed with him or if he would just trade places with me.

Clearly, he understood my confusion, “Not with me, of course,” he awkwardly stuttered.

I laughed and took another sip.

“What’s so funny?” Eric jested. He crossed his arms like an angry child who wasn’t allowed to get the candy he wanted.

I couldn’t stop laughing, “Seeing you trip over your words like that. It’s almost like we’re back in junior year.”

“Yeah,” he rubbed his neck and glanced around the room nervously, “it’s actually just like we’re back in junior year.” Eric followed his bold statement with a light chuckle, as he always does. I can usually never tell if it’s sarcasm, but from the way he was looking at me, I could.

For about half a second, I really thought that we were going to kiss. I’m not that girl, and I’m not that dumb. Hooking up with an ex subsequently he just interacted with the girl he dated after you? Please. I’m not sixteen anymore.

“I feel like the couch would miss me,” I grabbed one of the pillows and hugged it.

“Of course, of course,” Eric picked up his glass.

“Of course? What do you mean of course?” If he had already predicted my answer, why even ask?

“Oh, nothing,” he raised the glass to his lips, then pulled it away, “I’ve just noticed you don’t do well with change.”

“Your couch is what made you realize that?” I giggled.

“Well, it certainly helped.” Eric rested his arm on the edge of the couch and put his feet up on the coffee table, “What are you scared of, Hadley?”

Failing. Living out of a rental car. Getting fired. “Nothing.”

His eyes were detecting my bullshit.

“I just don’t wanna mess up.” I sighed and put my face in my hands, “I dropped everything back home to be successful here. It hasn’t been easy, and I really miss my family.” Tears filled my eyes thinking of Mom and May, but I blinked them back.

Eric put his hand on my cheek, “I know.”

His hand felt so familiar. Too familiar, too weird. My heartrate was speeding up.

“Stay in my room tonight,” he pushed my hair behind my glasses.

“Eric, your ex was just here. Do you really think that’s a good idea?” I shyly said. I knew it wasn’t my place to speak on his relationship.

Eric rolled his eyes, “God damn it, Hadley,” he stood up and walked to the staircase, “what I get for being the nice guy, right? You think I care about her like I care about you?” His firm tone startled me.

“Clearly I spoke on a touchy subject, I-” I tried to explain.

“You said you missed home just now.” He slammed a scotch glass on the counter, “I was trying to give you that sense of home.”

I saw him reaching for the bottle. Eric’s go to when he’s upset is alcohol. It’s always been. At Vivian Chesterfield’s after-homecoming party we got in a fight. He got so wasted that night that he fell asleep on my best friend’s roof after trying to break into her house to apologize to me.

“You’re right!” I shouted.

His shaking hand stopped right before opening the cabinet.

I went over to the kitchen, “I’m sorry, Eric. You’re helping me out beyond belief and I’m over here being judgmental for no reason. I was scared that I was just a rebound.”

“No, Hadley, what?” He rubbed his eyes with his palms, “Why would you think that? You were talking about how much you missed Michigan. I thought you were trying to tell me you missed me.”

I looked at him blankly. I didn’t know what to say. He misinterpreted what I was saying, and that’s not my fault.

“I guess not,” he scoffed. “I just have always associated you with Michigan, my home, because-” he stuttered and tripped over his words, “You’re like a piece of home to me here in LA. That’s why. I’m such a dumb ass.”

“No, you’re not. I wasn’t trying to send mixed signals or anything.” I pushed up my glasses. “I just can’t compromise any opportunities. You understand, right?”

“Yeah, totally.” The disappointment on his face was indisputable. “Sorry I freaked out.”

“It’s okay. I’ve witnessed worse.” I grinned and put my hand on his large shoulder.

“Thanks, I think?” My contagious smile spread across his face.

“Yes!” We laughed.

Eric and I ended on a weird note that night. How could we not have? He basically confessed the feelings we both have for each other and I shut them down.

I woke up in the middle of the night to find Eric laying at my feet. He was holding my hand. When I opened my mouth to say something he put his finger to my lips and crawled on top of me. He gripped the sides of my hips and kissed my neck, then further and further down my body. Just as he was about to take off my panties, I woke up again, but for real this time.

I grabbed my phone to check the time. It was about a quarter past four. I tried to go back to sleep, however I just couldn’t stop thinking about Eric. I wanted to get some fresh air, but I’m not exactly sure how to open the living room windows and I don’t think I should make a ruckus trying to figure it out.

There is a balcony right next to Eric’s bedroom. I just have to be as silent as possible. I remember how light of a sleeper he is. He would wake up if all I did was turn over in bed.

I quietly made my way up the stairs, walking slowly, careful not to make any noise. Eric’s bedroom stank of tobacco and liquor. As I passed his bed, I saw that he wasn’t in it. I figured that he was maybe in the bathroom, so I quickly slid the door open to the balcony and shut it.

As I turned away from the door, the incredible view of the city captured my eyes. I fell into a trance and walked closer to the railing, overlooking the beauty of Los Angeles at night. A quarter past four and the lights are still on, the city is still alive.

“Need something?”

I promptly turned around and started trying to talk, “Sorry, Eric — I was, um, just-”

He started laughing at me, “You’re fine,” he let out a puff of cigarette smoke, “want to come sit?”

This was an easy room to read. It’s a late night on a balcony with my ex boyfriend who is under the influence.

I stayed where I was, “Are you okay?” I asked him.

“Are you okay?” He stood up and took a few steps towards me, “You’re the one up on my balcony this late at night.”

“Well, you’re the one awake smoking a whole pack.”

“These aren’t cigarettes, they’re CBD cigarettes,” Eric said bluntly. He put his hand on my shoulder and the CBD cigarette up to my mouth, “Try it. It doesn’t do anything.”

“What’s CBD?” I pushed his hand away from my lips.

He hysterically laughed, “It’s like pot, Hadley. Remember how high you used to get?”

Don’t remind me. “Oh, I’m okay then-”

“But not really pot, like-” Eric hiccupped, “like diet weed. It doesn’t really do anything, it just chills you out.” His face got close to mine. His breath stank of scotch, “Just try it, don’t be a baby.”

“Eric, you need to go to bed,” I laughed anxiously. “We have to get up for work in a few hours. Don’t you want to get some sleep?”

“I didn’t realize I was living with my mother.” He threw the CBD cigarette off the balcony, still lit.

“I’m not mothering you, I’m just-” I began.

Eric interrupted me, “Yeah, you are. You have been since you got here. You’re throwing off my routine.”

“Oh! You’re routine of staying up until four in the morning, smoking and drinking your thoughts away?” I huffed, “We are adults.”

“I am an adult. I have my own house, my own car, my own bills, and I can pay for it all. I’m not sure you could relate.” He sounded like a child.

“That was a low blow, Eric.” I crossed my arms, “We used to make fun of celebrities and people who’s money became their personalities in high school. Now look at you-” I watched his eyes soften, “that’s exactly what you’ve become.”

We sat in silence, staring at each other for an awkwardly long amount of time.

“Why did I do that?” Eric crumbled into his hands.

“Do what?” I asked.

“Did you think you just got lucky when that flight attendant took you to first class? Did you think that your seat was next to mine by chance? Are you that naïve?” He looked up at me.

Maybe I really was that naïve. The fact that none of this had added up until now made my head spin. “I-”

Eric interrupted me. “When I saw you boarding that plane it was my only second chance,” he paused and took a deep breath, “All I wanted was a second chance.”

Flashes of drunk texts from him years ago, begging me to come over ran through my mind like a slide show.

I sat down next to him. “I’m not that naïve. I know that there’s really something special between us, but Eric-” tears filled my eyes, but I blinked them back, “Every time I let you in, I get hurt.”

“But things are so different now!” He whined, “We aren’t kids anymore. You said it yourself- we’re adults. I don’t have those toxic tendencies anymore. I’m not the same stupid kid, don’t you see that?”

He’s changed as a person so much. He’s more stable, smarter, kinder. However, it’s his ways that haven’t changed. He’s wide awake at half past four in the morning smoking and drinking. If his indulgence habits haven’t changed, I sure don’t expect his emotional habits to. We really did have such a strong connection, but I don’t know if I’m willing to sacrifice my mental well being for a ‘second chance.’

“I want things to work, Eric. I really, really do. I have to be confident that I’m not putting myself in a position to get hurt, and I’m not confident that I will be in that position with you.” I put my hand on his cheek. “You know how I feel about you, but it’s better this way.”

He turned his head towards me and caressed my hand. We couldn’t stop staring at each other.

I don’t know if it was the city’s bright lights or the California water, but I let go of everything I had just said to Eric. I wrapped my arm around his neck, pulled him in, and kissed him. I expected it to feel as good as the first time we kissed, but it didn't. It simply felt natural.

PART 2 COMING SOON IF YOU GUYS LIKE IT ❤