"Are you sure you can't come?"

Henry was standing in front of the mirror looking over which tie to wear.

"Henry?"

"Yeah?" He said confused and went back to get a different tie.

If I could get Henry to come, then Idris wouldn't have to go with me. Not that I minded...or perhaps I did. I wasn't sure, but I knew deep down that it was completely okay to be out on a date–even if it wasn't an actual date– with someone other than Henry...that and Idris...

Ugh, there was always something about him that I couldn't...ignore? when he was near. Even thinking about him now made my hands tingle and my belly swarm.

Henry practically stumbled out the closet with a new shirt in hand.

"Do you have an important meeting today?"

Henry paused looking my way, for a moment he looked upset but then he smiled coming toward me. "No, just trying to make a good impression."

"You already got the job."

"I know." He smirked cupping my chin. "I-I guess you're right. Maybe I'm trying too hard."

I picked up the tie on his left hand, "I think this one looks great."

He smiled and went back towards the mirror.

"So tonight?"

"Well about that. I was actually going out with a couple coworkers tonight."

"Oh, I see. Well," I sighed, I guess I was stuck with Idris. "Okay."

"I'm sorry babe." He came close and gave me a slight peck on the forehead. "Maybe you and I can have our own date night another time?"

I nodded my head.

That had been earlier this morning. All day I had debated telling Henry that Camilla had roped me into a double date, but just when I had wanted to, Camilla had shown up to class looking so nervous I thought she might vomit.

I thought she might back out, but she also seemed excited. Instead of focusing on lecture, we spent most of the time secretly looking up outfit ideas for her on our laptops and I realized if I told Henry the truth, the chances were that I wouldn't be going and that would hurt Camilla.

We left class, deciding to skip tutoring and instead get ready for tonight.

Ultimately, I decided not to tell Henry what I was really doing tonight. I didn't think he would understand it. He could be very jealous.

Instead, I decided to tell him I was only going out with Camilla. Skipping the whole double date nondate drama with Idris.

When I got home, I found Henry also getting ready for his night.

"You look dashing."

"You think so?" He turned to face me as I stood by our bedroom door.

"Definitely," I hugged him from behind.

In an instant Henry turned over so he could wrap me in a hug as well. "Shouldn't you also be getting ready?"

"Yeeeah." I sighed.

Henry chuckled and tilt my face to meet his eyes. "Are you nervous?"

"Partly." I sucked in my lip. The thought of being out in a crowded place hadn't thrilled me. An attack was imminent, but I had to try. The other reason was because I knew I shouldn't be going, but yet, even as I thought that, my body was humming with excitement.

"Have you had anymore attacks?"

I shook my head no. Neglecting to tell him about the attack I had a day ago. Luckily, Idris had come to the rescue.

"See I knew those pills would work." He smiled, then let go as he headed out the bedroom door.

I really wanted to tell him my pills hadn't been working as well anymore, but Henry had already grabbed his keys, and was headed out the door.

As the door closed behind him, I knew it was my turn to get ready. Tonight was unavoidable and I would have to do my best to drown out those feelings that Idris brought out...but first—my stomach rumbled— I was going to make me a ramen soup.

~

After hours of digging through my closet, I finally found something that wasn't a hoodie, sweats, or workout clothes. God, when was the last time I went shopping?

I decided to go for a more casual look. I pulled over my grey dress that hung just above the knee and delicately cinched my waist and threw my favorite black leather jacket over it. The shoes are always the hardest part, so I saved those for last.

Since there was no way in hell I was wearing heels, and sneakers were too casual, I opted for my black micro crew socks and my favorite leather ankle boots.

As I was finishing curling my hair, my phone buzzed on the counter and I looked to see who it was.

"Logan's at 8. Be there or be dead 💀"

It was a message from Camilla.

I chuckled. Camilla was a funny one. She honestly didn't need me or Idris to tag along. If this guy didn't fall in love with her personality then he didn't deserve her.

"Heading out now." I replied. I grabbed my purse and walked out the door.

As soon as I reached the parking lot, my phone buzzed again. Damn, Camilla could be impatient.

"Hurry I'm standing here alone! He hasn't shown up yet :( that means I can leave right??"

I rolled my eyes. "No Camilla! You're not running. He's probably riding with Idris." I took the keys out of my dress pocket.

My phone buzzed again. Almost immediately. Camilla was a fast texter.

"You look beautiful in that dress."

I froze. It was a message from Idris. What the hell? How the hell did he know what I was wearing?

I brought my gaze up from my phone and started looking around. I caught him leaning against the door of a sporty BMW.

His arms were crossed over one another, exposed by his black long sleeve folded up his elbows. A bit of arm hair exposed and I don't know why the sight of that had me feeling things I shouldn't. His wavy hair was slick dark black. His brows arched and I caught his green eyes that held a tinge of grey in the center. Idris was every bit masculine and beautiful.

Again, he was giving me that look. As if the world had suddenly vanished and I was the only one within sight. Hell...my body was awake and humming.

"Why are you here?" I cocked my head to one side.

Idris smiled, unaffected by my tone. "That's usually how dates work sweetheart. Call me old fashion, but I still believe in chivalry... now, get in the car."

I groaned, beyond annoyed. "Idris this isn't a-"

"Alixandria, at least let me drive you as a reward for saving your ass the other night."

I sighed. The look in his eyes telling me he wasn't going to back down. "Fine, but only if you let me drive on the way back." I smiled smugly. Ha! I knew boys and their toy cars. He'd never let me-

"Fine." He shrugged once, as if he didn't care. "Can't wait to see you drive my car short stack."

~

Logan's was packed. As we stepped through the large glass and metal doors I was hit with the sound of music, play machines, loud chatter, and the smell of good food.

I felt on edge for a moment. I hadn't been out in so long. The more I stood there, the more it seemed the walls were closing in. The chattering was becoming louder. It was becoming unbearable until I felt warmth at the small of my back. Idris's hand steadied me. I couldn't help the calmness that settled over me from his touch. I felt his voice by my ear.

"Take a deep breath Alix." He lowly whispered. "Your safe I promise. If it gets to bad, squeeze my hand and I'll drive you home." On cue I felt him give my hand a slight squeeze of reassurance.

I nodded. Taking in his words. Idris had somehow managed to control the panic that was settling over me. I did as he said. Closing my eyes for a moment on a deep breath and opening them to find I was okay. He was oddly good at this.

Once my heart steadied, I took a step forward and he followed beside me. His hand left the curve of my back when he noticed I was ready. I wasn't sure how he was able to read my body language so well, but I was secretly thankful. I'd have to ask him later how he knew.

"Alix! Idris!" Camilla found us near the entrance. She rushed over and gave me a hug. "I'm nervous." She whispered in my ear so no one else could hear.

When she pulled away I could see the nervousness in her eyes. They were a bit more dilated than usual.

I gave her a smile. "Don't be nervous. You look absolutely stunning and you have an amazing personality. He should be the nervous one."

Camilla smiled. Her big plump lips were shiny from her lip gloss. Her freckles were on full display and they looked beautiful on her golden complexion. Her hair was loose and curled. She looked absolutely stunning and unlike me, she had decided to dress up. Somehow, she pulled her classic grunge look with a touch of sexy and elegance.

"Thanks Alix. I'm so glad you came." She let out a breath of relief.

The sudden sound of male voices caught my attention. I turned to find Idris greeting who I assumed was Benjamin. I gulped. I could see why Camilla was nervous.

Benjamin was lethally handsome. A dangerous beauty that likely threw women off their feet. Much like Idris, Benjamin was tall, but not as tall as Idris. I could easily reach his chest. While Idris was packed with lean muscle, Benjamin was racked with hard bulging muscle.

He turned towards us, but his light blue gaze immediately found Camilla beside me and it was as if the world had disappeared. I knew that look all too well now. It was the same look Idris gave me when he thought I wasn't looking.

It was hard to ignore. Enthralling even. Perhaps that was why Camilla seemed cemented to the ground as Benjamin approached her.

He stopped just before he reached us with Idris by his side.

"Alixandria. Camilla. This is my good friend Benjamin Rink." Idris smirked.

"Nice to meet you." I shook his hand.

Benjamin smiled taking my hand. "Call me Ben and likewise." He smiled genuinely, then turned his attention to Camilla, who for once was silent and oh god she was doing it again.

Camilla was a beautiful girl with a dashing smile, but God the girl suffered from a serious case of resting bitch face. And right now she looked like Ben was the last person she wanted to see.

Ben seemed unfazed however. He approached her smoothly, extending his hand. "You must be Camilla." He smiled. "Your not gonna run away again on me right?"

Camilla broke a smile. "I make no promises on first dates Ace."

Ben chuckled and the tension in the air seemed to dwindle.

"Let's take our seats." Idris came to my side. Ben looked between Idris and I, stopping at Idris again and giving him a look followed by a smirk.

"Let's." Ben agreed.

~

After a couple drinks and some delicious food, the atmosphere had definitely changed. Camilla was back to her goofy self. Her and Ben were hitting it off so well it was like Idris and I weren't there sometimes.

I smiled looking at them. I had a feeling they were going to get along well. They reminded me of Henry and I back in our childhood days.

The crowd broke out in applause and whistles after a girl on the stage finished singing and it brought me out of my daze. Apparently, it was open mic night.

"Alix you should go up there! You sound waaay better than her." Camilla nudged me.

Oh hell no! I did not sing publicly. In fact, I hated anything that involved me on a stage while eyes were on me. My heart clenched.

"You sing?" Idris spoke beside me. Turning his direction to me. His dark green eyes were sparkling with amusement.

"N-no." I shook my head.

Camilla smiled. "She's just being shy, but Alixandria has a beautiful voice."

Idris squeezed my hand beneath the table. Perhaps he was sensing the anxiety rising in me. I didn't notice how my hands were rubbing against my thighs harshly until he held my hand and stopped the motion. Immediately I calmed.

"You don't have to do anything you don't want to short stack." He whispered.

"Why don't you join her Idris. Might loosen up her nerves." Ben chimed in. "There's a perfectly good guitar up there."

"It's up to her." Idris searched my gaze. "Either way I got your back."

I looked away from him and to the stage. It had been so long since I let go and had fun. A part of me felt a tinge of excitement from the thought of singing for a crowd. Of letting my vocal cords free from the cage they'd been locked in.

"Okay," I looked back at Idris. I couldn't place it, but I felt safe with him. Something I hadn't felt with anyone else but Henry. I knew Idris would help me if it came to it. "But only if you join me." I added.

Idris smiled. "Anything you want short stack."

Idris's hand was still holding mine as we got up. I knew it looked wrong, but I needed it. His touch kept me steady. Plus, it got all eyes off me. Idris was a walking magnet. All eyes went to him wherever we went. I was completely overlooked and I liked that.

Idris left me for a moment to speak to the girl at the booth. I couldn't help but chuckle at the way her eyes glazed over when he approached her. She had the biggest smile on her face. With a quick nod, I knew Idris had her put our names on a list.

He left her side and came back to me, in our little spot. "You're in doll." He smirked.

"What would I do without that slick charm of yours." I giggled, pushing his shoulder playfully.

Idris smiled, but he hardly moved an inch. I could probably punch him as hard as I could and it'd hurt my fist more than his skin. His arms were still on either side of me and I was acutely aware of how close he was to me.

Was it horrible that I didn't hate it? Idris radiated his body heat to me. I felt warmth trapped between him and it was a struggle to want to move. For a moment he got so close I thought our lips would touch and my heart was ready to beat out of my chest.

"So, what song will I be playing?" Idris broke the building pressure around us, but he didn't move away and neither had I...what was happening to me?

I mentally shook my head, desperately trying not to focus on his strong chest, beautiful eyes, and sultry lips and instead I thought of songs.

My mind went through each song I knew and then one popped into my head. I hope Idris knew it.

~

Idris toned the guitar as he sat on a stool on the stage. The light was bright and I could barely see anyone below, but I knew they were there. Particularly because I heard Ben and Camilla cheering my name.

My heart began to beat a little hard and it felt uncomfortable. Perhaps this was a bad idea. It was an attack waiting to happen. I didn't realize I was backing away until I bumped into Idris.

"Deep breath Alix. You got this." He reassured me.

His smile made me nod my head. I took a couple deep breaths then blocked all my fears out. I could do this.

I took the mic and looked back at Idris who was waiting on my cue. With a final deep breath, I gave him a nod. Idris began to play. His fingers gently strummed back and forth on the guitar strings.

"When I was younger

I saw my daddy cry

And curse at the wind

He broke his own heart

And I watched

As he tried to reassemble it."

There was an overwhelming silence taking over the room as I sang, but all thoughts but the lyrics left my mind.

"Maybe I know, somewhere

Deep in my soul

That love never lasts

And we've got to find other ways

To make it alone

But keep a straight face

And I've always lived like this

Keeping a comfortable, distance

And up until now

I had sworn to myself that I'm content

With loneliness

Because none of it was ever worth the risk."

When my nerves racked, I looked to my side and found Idris there smiling, playing the guitar.

"But, you are, the only exception

You are, the only exception

You are, the only exception

You are, the only exception."

He played so well alongside me. His gaze didn't leave mine as he played. I didn't mind. It gave me the strength to finish.

"And I'm on my way to believing

Oh, and I'm on my way to believing." My voice resonated through the room. When the guitar stopped it was silent for a moment that made me a nervous reck. I could hear my heart thumping hard. Then an applause broke out beside me.

Idris was clapping. Then the whole room started to clap and whistle. I felt my cheeks redden. I couldn't believe I had just done that. I felt... I felt happy and giddy.

I put the mic back and went towards Idris who dropped the guitar and took me by surprise as he wrapped me in a hug.

"You were great short stack."

"That was amazing!" I squealed, still high from the experience. "I haven't sung in front of a crowd in so long. It was... it was just, amazing." I smiled, looking up at Idris. "Thank you." I bit my lip. If he hadn't been there I wouldn't have had the strength to do that.

"Anytime." He led me down the steps.

When we reached our booth, Camilla practically jumped on me. "Oh my God Alix that was so beautiful."

"Thanks." I smiled meekly.

Camilla turned to Idris standing behind me. "Idris, I didn't know you could play guitar. You guys really made a nice duo out there."

She wiggled her brows at me and I knew she meant that differently than she intended. I couldn't help but feel flush. There was so much excitement for me to take.

"I need to use the restroom." I excused myself. "I'll be back."

Halfway to the restroom I began to feel on edge. A slight haziness was clouding my mind. I felt spacey and light. I knew it was from the adrenaline rush I had from performing. I was starting to regret getting out of my comfort zone. I was feeling the side effects hard. My heart had overworked itself and I knew I was gonna pay.

The lightheadedness started to make me feel nauseous. I felt as if my nostrils weren't inhaling the air and my throat was constricting. As I reached the hallway to the restrooms, I noticed the bright Exit sign above a door against a wall. I needed fresh air and a cool breeze more than anything. The walls felt like they were closing in.

I burst open the door and immediately filled my lungs with cool air. I leaned my body on the brick wall for support. Inhaling deeply with my eyes closed. My heart was racing, like I was racing to catch my breath. I pushed my brown locks behind my shoulder, away from my face.

"Alixandria." I felt strong arms hold me up. "Hey look at me."

His hand cupped my face, turning me to stare into his green eyes. I couldn't respond. I was too nauseous still.

Idris hauled me up, carrying me in his arms. I was pressed against his chest. "We're leaving now."

I didn't argue as he carried me away. I couldn't. Not when I felt so weak and so damn tired. When my back hit his car seat, I felt sleep hit me hard. I kept my eyes closed.

I heard the engine roar to life and I let sleep consume me.

~

"Alixandria." Idris's voice murmured lowly beside me. Why was Idris here? Where was I?

I pressed my mind to push through the confusion. I had gone out on a double date. I drank. Sang in front of an audience... then I ran out the door. Idris found me. Shit!