Torn

Chapter 7

Harry...

My left hand lifts from the steering wheel and rests on the window frame of my Audi, bent on the elbow to cradle my head, rubbing small circles in my temples in an effort to hamper the beginnings of a massive headache. I take my time and observe the light that had just shifted to red, its brightness too menacing for my sunglass-clad eyes.

I should be at home.

Contrary to my sullen mood, I woke up with high-spirits this morning intent on spending the day just lounging or perhaps be able to come up with a reason to see her again.

It's been three days since I woke up cuddled next to her and I swear I have never felt more at peace. My body immediately noticed the loss of her the moment I stood up and left the comforts of the bed we shared and truth is; I didn't really want to. But I knew I had to, not for me though, for her. We run in the same circles and if Cara would see us cuddling, chances are high that Selena would probably go MIA for a decade this time around.

The way her eyes filled with anxious questions when she saw me that morning sitting in front of the kitchen counter with a bowl of cereals proved my assumption correct. But my only response was to smile at her, assuring her that our secret was safe and the smile I got in return, though slightly nervous, was enough to make my day.

Honestly, I did have a bit to drink the evening prior. But I've had way more a lot of times before and I had no problem driving. It just so happened that I heard Cara mention to Martha that Selena was staying the night when she was inviting the other girl also. Martha declined and I thought I could take up the offer.

I wanted to see her again, and maybe earn another chance of simple conversation; especially after she answered my question. I wasn't able to have her within arms' reach again that evening, as I would always find her surrounded by her friends. Her gaze would meet mine on few occasions and it would always be the same - wistful, afraid and apologetic.

And with every single time I would hold her stare and try to reach out to her. But when she becomes reminded of our whereabouts she would avert her eyes, scanning the room for any possible witness to our small exchange.

Her behavior would always elicit a huff of annoyance from me. I already had a hard time soliciting honesty from her as it is, fill up the room with our common friends and she is sure to avoid me like the black plague.

She isn't a liar, she's just a very talented actress and always resorts to it when she thinks she's got something to be afraid of. Coincidentally, as I've observed in the few short hours I got to spend with her – it seems to happen a lot and is unfortunately, related to me.

Oh you fucking tosser! Just drive back if you still can, if not then just sleep on the road. I won't be going out just to pick up your arse!

I cringed as my ear was met with Cara's shrill, drunk voice from the other end. But I didn't mind all I wanted was to see her again.

I lay on the mattress Cara provided me, it was quite comfortable actually, but I knew all chances of sleep would be hopeless as my mind recounted the feel of her in my arms while we danced. I was never a fan of that stupid tradition my friends came up with during Rita and Nick's birthday celebration last year. In fact I dreaded it every time that song played; never knowing it would come to be my ally one day.

It was close to 4AM when I heard light, footsteps and my initial reaction was to stay still, thinking it was a burglar that I had failed to notice in my musings. But I felt my eyebrows rose when I heard the familiar voice and, thankfully I had quick reflexes, otherwise I would have guaranteed myself a very early morning wood, would she have landed totally on top of me.