Against All Odds

CHAPTER - 7

We walked together towards the parking lot, talking to each other. The sound of her laughter was like music to my ears, instantly putting me at ease. We came to a stop at a spot where Liam couldn't see us.

Reaching the secluded spot, hidden from Liam's judgmental gaze, I saw the perfect opportunity to make a move. "I've been thinking, I might need your number." That way, I can reach out to you whenever I want, and talk to you whenever I feel like it.

"Hmm, Cam." She taunted. "I don't know if I can just hand out my number to someone like you."

Her playfulness always ignited a fire within me. I laughed and leaned in closer to her, smirking. "Try giving me your number and you'll see how worthy I can be." She giggled and nodded in agreement. I grabbed her phone and typed in my contact information.

She glanced at her brother who was waiting beside the car, then turned back to me, meeting my gaze and giving me a sincere smile. I responded with a friendly wave. She made her way to Liam's car and, just before hopping in, she took one last look at me. After that, she got into the car and Liam began to drive.

Once their car was out of the driveway, I made my way towards my car.

***

"Nathan, you should consider a career in gossip." I said.

Jeremy chuckled. "Come on, Cam. Give us some details. Weren't you talking about her last week too?"

Nathan nudged Jeremy, a sly smile forming. "Looks like our very own bad boy is finally falling for someone."

Normally, I'd fire back with a sassy comeback, deflecting their jokes, but this time was different. This time, I found myself strangely enjoying their teasing. We were all gathered at our usual spot in the corner of our favorite restaurants. "I just can't get her out of my head, alright!" I nodded, a small smile tugging at the corner of my lips.

Amanda chimed in. "Well, Cam, it's about time you found someone who makes you happy."

"You better make sure you deserve her. I bet she must have got enough admirers, you know." Nathan winked. The words stung a little, but I brushed it off.

I turned to Amanda. "By the way, Amanda, how's your father doing?"

Amanda's smile turned sad for a moment before brightening again. "He's doing much better now, Cam. Thanks for asking. The doctors have been able to stabilize his condition, and we're hopeful for his recovery."

I felt a sense of relief washed over me that Amanda's father was improving. No child deserves to go through the death of their parent. "That's great news. Always here for you, you know that right?"

Amanda nodded.

"Cam's found someone, I've got Amanda. When are you planning to settle down, Nathan?"

Nathan chuckled. "Oh, you know me, guys. I like my freedom too much. I don't wanna be chained to the same girl for my whole life."

When Nathan spoke, I couldn't help but think about how I felt the same exact thing a few weeks ago. I was so content with my carefree lifestyle. But now, with Elle in the picture, I feel like I want to be only chained to her. She had carved a place in my stone-cold heart. I recall the countless times I pushed people away, it was a defense mechanism, a way to shield my vulnerable core. But she effortlessly dismantled those walls.

I became a man who craved the presence of one specific woman.

"When are you both heading back to Australia?" Nathan inquired.

Jeremy glanced at Amanda, a tender smile gracing his lips. "Once Amanda's father settles in comfortably, we'll head back. Until then, we're here." Amanda leaned into Jeremy, and planted a gentle kiss on his arm.

"Ugh! You guys are disgusting." Nathan teased.

"Nathan, you're just jealous because you can't find someone to kiss your arm like that."
I said.

Nathan rolled his eyes. "Whatever, Cam. But you two make it hard to hate on love. It's kind of sickening." He said, referring to Jeremy and Amanda.

Jeremy chuckled, his eyes glinting with affection for Amanda. 'Well, love has a way of sneaking up on even the most unexpected person.' Amanda's gaze locked in with Jeremy, as she nodded in agreement.