Never Ending Date

The next morning I woke to the sound of the TV in the living room. I glanced over at my alarm clock. 12am?! I sat up quickly. I heard Ace in the kitchen cooking something and it smelt seriously good. I got up and quickly hurried into the bathroom to check I was looking okay and to give my teeth a quick clean. I was nervous to see him again and embarrassed about asking him to stay over, how needy must I have sounded? I walked out and lingered in the door way. I watched him for a while as he whistled to himself while he fried some eggs. He looked really good this morning, to be honest he always did. He was wearing his shirt from last night however it was buttoned down. I felt bad making him stay over with nothing to wear.
“Hey,” I smiled walking into the kitchen.
“Hey, you’re just in time!” he smiled turning around, “where do you keep your plates?”
“Bottom cupboard, to your left,” I replied sitting down at the table. Before I knew it there was a huge plate of cooked breakfast in front of me.
“Wow, you didn't have to!” I laughed, tucking in. He also was a really great cook?!
“Well I thought you’d be hungry, sleeping in this late,” he smiled taking a bite of his toast.
“I seriously never wake up this late!” I protested.
“Yeah, yeah,” he laughed. Just as we were beginning to have a laugh I suddenly remembered James and my smile faded. Ace must have noticed because he suddenly jumped up. “Go get ready, were going out.”

James had planned on taking me to the natural history museum where they had an ice scatting rink. First we stopped off at his apartment where he changed into something more casual, I waited in the taxi. When we got there it was really pretty. The place was lit up with blue lights which reflected into the ice and gave it a blue glow. Suddenly I stopped.
“What’s up?” he asked turning to me.
“I, I can’t skate…” I blushed. He laughed.
“Nor can I, I thought it would be fun though.” No. I thought to myself. This really isn't going to be fun. We queued up until there were some skates free. I tied them up and straight away I wobbled.
“Woah!” he laughed, grabbing onto my elbow to stop me from falling.
“This is so embarrassing,” I laughed. He held my hand and we both wobbled onto the ice. Once I stepped onto the ice I let go of him and reached for the side bar. Ace watched and laughed. “I have NO balance!” I laughed, “I’m the most inelegant girl you’ll ever meet!” I spent the next five minutes stepping slowing around the outside of the rink with my hand clutched onto the bar. I watched while Ace ventured out into the middle of the rink, I was kinda jealous but as soon as I let go I panicked, my legs were shaking and kept slipping on the ice. I saw him coming towards me.
“I’m sorry I’m so crap at this,” I smiled.
“Here,” he said reaching out for my hand. I held onto it as he gently pulled me onto the ice. He started to move and bit faster and I squirmed with nervousness. After a few minutes of skating around (holding onto Ace) he slowly guided me to the exit.

“I’m so happy to be back on ground,” I laughed, slipping of my skate boots.
“I’m sorry, I didn't realise you were this bad,” he laughed.
“Oi!” I exclaimed, “I’m better at other things...” I said without realising how flirty I sounded. I watched him grin.
“Here, let me buy you some mulled wine to make it up to you.” The wine was actually really good; it almost made up for it. As we sipped our wine I thought about Ace. I hadn't really had time to think about our date since technically it was on going but I realised after all this drama if he still wants to see me again he must really like me. He was a nice guy and I felt we had a connection. I also felt he understood me. Maybe it was because we have the same kind of backgrounds but I noticed how he understands when I’m upset of need cheering up or when I’m nervous, liked that, and it was impressive for a guy I've only just met, where’s the catch?...

After the date had ended he kissed my cheek and dropped me off home in the taxi. Before I got out I turned to him. “Thank you, I mean it, you didn't have to stay with me last night, but I’m grateful that you did and if for some reason if you ever want to see me again after all this drama give me a call.” He smiled and watched me get out of the taxi and walk up to my apartment. I turned around and waved before the taxi drove off. I felt good about Ace; he seemed like a really great guy.

Once I was alone again my mind begun to wonder. The last time I had seen James was Thursday morning after we had all gotten home from my parents. I didn't see him Friday until later on. That meant he only had a day to meet this guy and let him turn him crazy. Unless he had met him earlier and hadn't told us? But that wasn't like James at all, I really wanted to find out, I needed to talk to him but I never wanted to see that guy again, this time I wouldn't let him anywhere near James.

First Date. Part 2

“Ace I’m really sorry but I've got to go, my friend needs me,” I said turning to him.
“Is everything okay?” he asked concerned. I shook my head quickly tears forming in my eyes. “Did you get a taxi here?” he then I asked, I nodded. “Come on, I’m coming with you.” I was going to refuse but I knew if something was wrong I might need him.

When we arrived I ran up the stairs to his apartment as soon as I could. The door was open and I walked straight in. Suddenly I froze and gasped. “Whoa!” Ace exclaimed as he walked in behind me. The place was a mess. There were shattered wine glasses, lamp shades on the floor, draws had been opened with the content scattered all over the floor, his books had been thrown all over his apartment and his TV had taken a serious battering. Just then I noticed Billie on the other side of the room holding the phone up to her ear. I looked over at Ace, he didn't say anything.
“Scarlett, he won’t answer his phone… I don’t know what to do!” Billie began sobbing. I started walking towards her when I felt Ace grab my hand and pull me back.
“Look out,” he said looking down at the floor which were covered in shards of glass. I quickly stepped around the glass and threw my arms around her.
“Do you think he’s been burgled?” I asked.
“I don’t know anymore, I just want to know where he is!”
“Erm guys?” I heard Ace call. We turned around and there standing at the door was a rough looking, stubble-faced James.
“James!” I exclaimed, “oh my god what’s happened here? Where have you been?” I ran towards him but then I froze. There was a guy standing behind him.
“You've got to leave,” he then said, his voice rough.
“No, are you serious, we need to call the police, you've been burgled!” Billie shouted.
“I haven’t been fucking burgled now leave me alone!” he suddenly shouted. This wasn't the James we knew.
“Dude,” Ace said, “were just trying to help you out” Ace went to put his hand on James shoulder and then the guy behind him stepped forward and blocked him.
“Get your hands off him,” he groaned. Ace stepped back and held up his hands.
“Fine, fine, Scarlett come on, were getting out of here.” He looked at me and then I looked back at James. I shook my head.
“I’m not leaving James alone here with this guy,” I said. I turned to James. “Please, please come back to my apartment, you look a mess.” I stared at him my eyes wide with desperation.
“He doesn't want to come with you, you stupid bitch, he’s my boyfriend he’s staying with me now can you all just fuck off!”
“Who the fuck even are you?! He’s never mentioned you before if you were his boyfriend we would know!” Billie suddenly screamed, “James is our best friend!”
“Fine, James, who do you want to be with? Me, who loves you? Or them, who just want to use you as their gay best friend like some kind of accessory?”
“What!” I burst; we've never treated James that way! Have we James?”  There was silence.
“Guys I’m sorry,” James suddenly broke down, “just leave, I don’t want you here.” I felt the pain in his voice but I realised there was nothing more we could do. I grabbed Billies hand and pulled her out of the apartment. I felt a suddenly chill as the door slammed behind us.

We contemplated calling the police but what could we say? Our friend wanted to be alone in his apartment but we weren't happy with it? It just wasn't right, why was James acting like this, he’s normally so strong and would always stick up for us, whoever that guy was had seriously messed with James and I desperately wanted the old James back. I knew Billie was thinking the same. I asked if she wanted to stay at mine but she said she would rather be alone. In all honestly I wanted her to say yes, I was scared to be alone after what had just happened. What if that guy comes after me? I know it sounds far-fetched but he was super creepy and I could imagine we ruined his night by being at James’s apartment. Once the taxi had dropped Billie of I turned to Ace.
“I know you hardly know me and I’d never usually invite a guy back to my apartment on the first date but, considering what’s just happened I really don’t want to be alone.” I looked down, I couldn't believe what I was doing.
“You want me to stay over?” He asked, a little confused.
“Yeah, you don’t have to though...”
“Sure, I mean my roommates away this weekend and I’m pretty freaked out too!” we both laughed. It was sweet of him to try to make me feel better.

When we arrived at my apartment I showed him around quickly and then went to change. When I came out he was sitting watching TV. I brought him in some blankets and a pillow.
“You wanna watch a movie or something?” he asked as I sat down beside him. I shook my head.
“This programme kinda sucks though” he laughed, grabbing the remote control.
“I hope he’s okay,” I said softly, biting my bottom lip. I felt Ace put his arm around me and pull me close.
“Just don’t think about it,” He said softly, “when he’s ready he will come back to you I’m sure of it.”
“I hope so, I really do…”

First Date. Part 1

Ace and I decided to go to a Chinese restaurant in Chinatown tonight. We were meeting at 6pm and I decided to hit the shops before the date. I met Billie and instantly asked her if she had heard from James.
“Nope,” she sighed. I bit my bottom lip, something was defiantly up. “I’m going round there tonight though, he’s got some serious explaining to do,” I nodded. Hopefully he was just busy or his phone broke or whatever.
“Well please call me if anything is wrong,” I smiled.
“No, I wouldn't ruin your date!” she replied shaking her head.
“Billie seriously, James is waay more important than this date, please don’t hesitate to call me if you need me.” She reluctantly nodded.

After trying on a selection of dresses I decided on a long-sleeved velvet bodycon dress however I wasn't sure on the colour. At first I was sure on black but after trying on the dress in the wine red colour I wasn't sure. I showed Billie them both and she thought the wine red looked better so that’s the one I bought. After we went back to my apartment and she helped me get ready. As she helped curl the back of my hair I got a wave of nerves.
“I haven’t been on a date in almost 4 months , what if I don’t know what to say…” I began chewing on my bottom lip; it was a habit of mine which occurred when I was nervous. I had been concentrating on studying for my my veterinary
“Scarlett, don’t be silly, you've been on plenty of dates!” she laughed.
“But not since,”
“Babe, when we were in college you were out almost every night, no calling you a slut or anything…” I gasped and she laughed, “Just pleaaase don’t tell me your now freaking out because of one jerk.” She was referring the Gary, my ex.
“It’s not that,” I sighed, “it’s horrible when someone cheats on you, when you know you just weren't good enough, what if he sees that in me too, what if we start dating and then he realises to than I’m too boring or too clinging or whatever I don’t even know why he cheated on me!” I was getting angry now thinking of Gary.
“Hey, hey!” she said placing the curler down and kneeling down in front of me, “listen, your perfect, Gary cheated on you because he’s a greedy dick and you were too good for him, all he wanted was a slut to mess around with a you wasn't low enough to be that girl.” Billie looked into my eyes and smiled. “Your only young, you've got soo much time to find somebody better, don’t be hard on yourself because of Gary, he’s seriously not worth it.” Billie was actually a year older than me, even though we were in the same year at school she was held back a year due to her language barrier. “Come on,” she smiled, grabbing my hand and dragging me off the chair, “look at you, your hot!” she laughed, I smiled. I did look good I had to admit, and it certainly was an improvement from last time I’d seen him. Just as she was picking me out some shoes I heard my phone buzz. It was Ace.

hey, I’ll be there in 15, looking forward to it – A x 

With butterflies in my tummy I quickly put on my shoes and coat followed by a cream scarf. I kissed Billie good bye.
“Good luck, she smiled.
“Remember what I said!” I called after her.

As I walked towards the restaurant I noticed Ace standing outside. The closer I got the more handsome he looked. He was wearing a smart shirt with a long, brown dark leather coat. His hair wasn't as straight as before and I liked it, it had some volume to it. I almost giggled to myself thinking of him doing his hair. Once I reached him I felt his hand slip around my waist as he pulled me in and kissed me on the cheek. “Hey, I smiled."
“Wow, you look amazing,” he laughed. I blushed slightly.
“Thanks, I thought I’d make an effort this time,” I laughed.
“You don’t need to, I thought you looked fine before,” he added. I smiled, even if he didn't mean it, it was sweet of him to say so.

Once we had ordered our food I noticed Ace smiling at me, that mysterious rough smile he had which was handsome, waay too handsome.
“What?” I blushed, “do I have something on my face?”
“No, no,” he laughed, “I’m just thinking.” I was about to ask what he was thinking about when the waitress came over with the food. We thanked her and then begun eating. We were silent for a bit as we ate. “This stuffs really good,” he nodded approvingly, “Here,” he said lifting the piece of chicken up with his chopstick and putting it onto my plate for me, “try some.” I bit into the chicken and he was right, it was really good. He then smiled again.
“What?!” I burst laughing.
“Nothing, nothing you just look really cute when you’re eating,” he laughed.
“Whatever…” I smiled. There was a silence again. “Tell me about yourself.” I smiled looking up from my food.
“Well, I’m twenty five, I've lived in the United Kingdom for the past five years, I like playing the guitar, I love animals-“
“Do you have any pets?” I smiled. He shook his head.
“Same with me, ive been thinking about getting one though.” He nodded.
“Cat, dog, hamster?” I smiled.
“A cat.”
“Because of where you live and your job?” he asked.
“Yup, I mean dogs are more loyal and fun but, I work all day which means it would have to be on its own, cats can deal with that more than dogs” I smiled. We carried on eating until he stopped and looked up at me.
“You wanna get out of here?” He asked. My eyes suddenly widened, was he suggesting sex?
“Don’t look like that!” he laughed, “I wanna walk around at bit, it’s a bit kinda, fancy in here,” he shrugged.
“Oh,” I smiled relieved he didn't think I was the kind of girl to get off with him on the first date; I’d certainly made that mistake before…

As we walked around Chinatown I realised just how much I liked the place. My mum used to take me there when I was a little girl as she could buy certain Asian ingredients from the supermarkets here which she couldn't find in the local Sainsbury's. Just as I was lost in thought I felt Ace’s hand grip onto mine and I smiled.
“What you thinking?” he asked casually.
“Just about my mum, we always used to come here.” He nodded.
“It reminds me of home I guess,” he then said. He stopped and turned to face me. He was about to say something then I heard my phone buzzing in my pocket. I laughed and excused myself before answering it.
“Scarlett you know I didn't want to do this but something’s up… you need to get down here.” Billie said down the phone. Suddenly I began to panic.
 “Oh my god Billie, is it James is he okay?” I looked over to Ace he looked concerned.
“He’s gone,” she breathed, “he’s gone.”

New Neighbors.

“sooo, was he a good kisser? I asked Billie as we ate our breakfast the following morning. I had noticed at the end of the night before we left they had a little make out session.

“He was okay,” she smiled, munching on her cereal.

“aaaand, you’re going to see him again?” James asked.

“I don’t know guys! It was just a flirt and a kiss!”

James and I looked at each other and laughed.  “I did give him my number…” she smiled.

“It’s about time one of us got a man,” James sighed, suddenly looking sad and distant. I nodded in agreement. In all honestly I did want a boyfriend, I hated to admit it but I’m very not very independent and the thought of having someone there for me felt very comforting, and also I missed the sex. But who knows, I still have my date with Ace and maybe one with Jake (guy I’d met on the train) so things weren't looking too bad.  We were all going home today and luckily the winds aren't’ as bad today so they train shouldn't be delayed.
After backing up our stuff and saying good bye to my family, which was pretty sad (I miss them already) we were on our way home.

As soon as I walked into my cold and empty apartment I knew I needed to clean. The place stunk like a fast food restaurant. The rest of the afternoon was spent cleaning my whole apartment out and re arranging a few pieces of furniture. The theme of my apartment was pink and white. I had white furniture with pink pillows, fairy lights, rugs, lamp shades, it was extremely girly, and the only guy who would want to move in with me would be James.  Just as I was lighting a candle, which was watermelon flavor and smelt delicious I heard a knock on the door. I wasn't expecting anyone over and usually they would buzz from downstairs. I opened the door and standing there was a cute man probably in his late twenties. “Hey, I just moved in next door, I just wanted to come introduce myself,” he went to shake my hand which was kinda awkward, however I smiled warmly. He was defiantly more my type than the guy id met on the train, his hair was dark brown and slicked back and I could tell by his worn, fitted jeans and rolled up shirt sleeves he had a nice style.
“Oh hey, I didn't realise the place had sold already!” I laughed, slipping my lose hair behind my ear.
“Yup, just moved in today, my fiancé is just sorting out the boxes, you should pop over sometime for a drink if you’re not too busy.” I smiled, he seemed nice, sucked about the fiance though I thought meanly.

“Sure yeah!”

“Do you live here alone?” he asked, looking behind me. I nodded.

“Yup…” I smiled.

“Cool, anyway I should be getting back to help Jane out, nice to meet you, I’m Matt.”

When I got back into my apparent I put my feet up and watched some TV. I then realised how bored I was. I began to really miss my family, my apartment was so empty and dull, I missed the noise and the action. I then jumped up and blew out my candle, I had an idea.

“Hey, I’m so sorry to be so intrusive but I wanted to ask if you needed any help unpacking?” I was standing outside the door of my new neighbours.

“Erm, sure hold on,” Matt replied, “Jane!” he called. After a moment or so a pretty, tall blonde girl appeared. “This is…”

“Scarlett,” I smiled.

“This is Scarlett, she lives opposite us, she came to ask if you needed any help unpacking?” Suddenly her face lit up.

“Oh my god, for real?” she smiled. I nodded.

“Yes! Thank you, you have no idea!” she laughed walking back into her apartment, I followed her, “I’m such a perfectionist aren't I Matt?” She laughed.Matt agreed sitting down at his desk. “And I can’t rest until everything is put away and you see Matt is extremely busy with an article he’s writing; ugh I wish somebody had told me moving was this stressful!” I laughed, she seemed bubbly, I liked her and felt kinda bad I was checking out her boyfriend… he was cute though.

Jane and I chatted for ages while I helped her unpack all her china and glasses. She told me all about her old apartment being tiny and they had too much stuff to fit in it, that’s why they had moved. She also told me about her career as a model which I found soo cool. She modeled women’s fashion in catalogs and magazines and she and Matt had met when he interviewed her for an article he was working on for his magazine. Apparently it was love at first sight and they had got engaged almost a month later. Maybe that was a little too fast, but they seemed happy.
“We actually have a cat,” Jane smiled, placing a set of cutlery in the draws, “he’s staying with my mum while we get the place sorted.”

“Oh really? I’m actually a veterinary nurse,” I smiled.

“Oh wow! I know who to go to now if my little baby gets poorly!” she laughed.

“Yeah, I love animals,” I smiled.

“Do you have any?” she asked. I shook my head.

“You should totally get one! Oh my god they could be friends, how cute is that!” she was giggling and I couldn't help but smile.

“I've been thinking about it, it’s just I see animals every day, but then my apartment is pretty lonely, that’s one of the reasons I came over actually, I've just been visiting my parents where there’s loads of company and now it’s just me, feels kinda sad,” I sighed.

“Oh, well you’re always welcome and I’m extremely grateful for the help!” she said. I smiled.

After we were done we exchanged numbers and I invited her round for a drink sometime. I was glad I had new neighbors who seemed really nice and I could see myself becoming good friends with Jane, she seemed like good fun. Just when I was getting ready for bed I heard my phone buzzing, it was Billie.

“Have you seen James today?” she then asked without even saying hello. I thought about it and then I realised I hadn't.

“No, I haven’t actually, have you?”

“No, I’m kinda worried, we normally meet on Friday nights but he hasn't replied to my texts all day.”

“Oh, I’ll try calling him.” I was worried now, James never usually went AWOL.

“He won’t reply, I've tried.”

“Maybe we should go over there,” I suggested.

“No, he’s a grown man he can look after himself I guess, perhaps he’s just busy.” I said.

Blast from the past!

The next morning I woke up to a disappointing text.

Sorry Scarlett, might not make it, the stations a nightmare, were trying though!

                                                                                                                                  – Billie x

“Great” I moaned, I really needed my friends here to cheer me up. I threw my head back onto the pillow and slept for another hour.

“Wakey, wakey!” I heard my mum calling as she walked into my room and threw back the curtains. I felt like I was a kid again.

“Ugh, is Mel back?” I asked sitting up.

“I don’t wanna talk about her.” She smiled, I was confused.

“Hu? Why?”

“She brought somebody back last night, I told em both to get out, I don’t really care anymore,” I knew she was angry but she kept her cool really well, I wish I could do that.

“When are Billie and James getting here?” she asked.  I sighed heavily.

“Well I’m not sure to be honest; I got a text from Billie saying their train might be cancelled…”

“Oh, that’s sad, I've been preparing my famous Risotto all morning.” I checked my phone again and since there were no more texts I decided I’d give Billie a call.

“Hey, what’s happening with you guys?” I asked.
“Well I think were in luck, there’s a train but it’s been delayed for the last hour, were just having coffee,” she laughed.

“Oh,” I smiled “I really hope you guys can make it, my sisters here…”

“Oh,” Billie replied, she knew my sister well enough to know already that it wasn't a good thing.

I got myself ready and decided to go take the dog out for a walk as I need to burn off all the chocolate and food I’d eaten last night. I walked through the fields and chased around after Lacy (the family dog) she was a border collie and super adorable. I was throwing her a stick when I heard my phone buzz.

Hey, hope you had a great Christmas! Lots of love, Ace x

I smiled as I read the text, he was defiantly cute.

When I got back home I was freezing. I got another text from Billie saying they were almost here and I got really excited again. I rushed upstairs and re did my make-up and hair (it was totally windswept after that walk) Id decided to curl it loosely and pin it back so it was some up and some down. I also got changed into a glittery red dress. Id decided I was taking them out for drinks after dinner. Once I was done I heard the doorbell ring.

“I’ll get it!” I called running down the stairs. I opened the door and there standing in my door step was Freddy Parker.

“Wow, flash back!” he laughed, I just stood there awkwardly. Freddy was at my high school and he was probably the creepiest guy I’d known. At school he had a crush on pretty much every single girl, but it didn't stop there though, he also decided to ask them all out, one by one and each one he confessed his love to, it was weird. However I felt pretty sorry for him and unlike the other girls didn't bully him and for that reason he wouldn't leave me alone.

“Hey Freddy,” I smiled, trying to sound polite.

“I didn't know you’d be here, I wanted to give this to your parents,” he reached into his pocket and pulled out a card, “come back for Christmas then?” He asked. I nodded and was just about to make an excuse to leave when my mum came up behind me.

“Freddy!” she exclaimed, “How good to see you, how’s your mum? It’s been so long.”

“She’s fine, I know, she’s always wanting to come over,” he smiled. I looked at him and realised he looked so different now, he looked better to be honest, less geeky and more manly.

“She’s always welcome,” mum then looked at me.

“Where you going all dressed up?" She asked.
“I thought I’d take Billie and James out for drinks after dinner, it sounded like they had a pretty rough day.

“Hey! You could take Freddy with you I’m sure you have lots of catching up to do!” I wanted to kill her.

“Oh no Mrs May, its fine-“

“No, no!” mum interrupted, “it’s Christmas! The more the merrier, right scarley” I didn't want to sound even more rude so I just nodded and smiled, and WHY was she using my stupid nick-name, it was like she was trying to embarrass me.

“Cool, where you planning on going then?” he asked. I told him where and when and then mum finally shut the door.


“Are you crazy!” I burst as soon as it shut. She ignored me completely.

“Isn't he a handsome boy now, and he was so nice to you, always buying you stuff-“

“He’s a creepy!” I exclaimed.

“Oh don’t be horrible like your sister,” she laughed.

“But mum!” Just then the doorbell rang again. If that was another creepy blast from the past I’m seriously going to scream. Luckily when mum answered it Billie and James were standing there. They walked in and told us all about the nightmare at the station.

“Some people couldn't even get home for Christmas! I felt soo bad for them, it must be awful!”

“I thought you’d have had a rough time that’s why I’m taking you out for drinks down the pub after dinner.” I smiled.

“Yes!” James laughed, “I've always wanted to go into one of them old country pubs.” We all laughed.

“James, it’s not like the movies you know,” I smiled. He looked disappointed.

“What no crazy grannies with shot guns and pistols? You’re kidding me!” he laughed referring to the movie Hot fuzz.

After dinner Billie and James got dressed up and we headed out.
“So what’s the deal with your sis?” James asked as soon as we were out of the house.

“Ugh, she’s just so horrible, apparently mum forced her to come here, she even pretty much said a one night stand would be better than seeing us.”

“Oh, where is she now then? Was she at the house?” Billie asked.

“Nope, mum kicked her out,” I shrugged.

“Shit, why?” James laughed.

“She brought back a guy last night apparently, mum just told her to leave.” We reached the bar and then I stopped.

“Oh by the way Billie, Freddy Parkers meeting us here.” Billie froze and the look on her face was comical.

“Your, your joking right?” she asked. I laughed.

“Unfortunately not.”

“What, why, how did that even happen?!” she burst as we walked into the pub looking for a table. Just then Freddy came over.
“Hey guys!” he smiled, “Billie!” he exclaimed, “wow your looking great! Let me get you a drink,” Freddy was seriously checking her out, why didn't I get that reaction?

“Oh, thanks, red wine please,” she smiled. Freddy then walked away to get the drinks.

“What about me?!” I laughed.
“Wow, he’s gotten, I mean I never thought I’d say this but… he’s HOT!” Billie said. James shrugged.

“He’s okay I guess but the colour pink reaaly doesn't suit him, maybe a darker pink but that rose colour is waay to harsh for his skin ton-“

“but he’s hot right? I’m not going crazy here?!” Billie burst.

“I guess he’s better than he was before…” I shrugged.

“He’s my type though, look at his bum!” she giggled. James looked over and nodded in approval.

“That sure is a great bum.” We all laughed. Just then he came over and sat beside Billie.

“Don’t worry babe,” James whispered, ill get you a drink, come on,” James smiled. I was reluctant to leave Billie but she seemed pre occupied with Freddy, was this really happening?

James and I sat down at the bar and he ordered himself a beer and me a white wine. “Right now tell me what’s the deal with this Freddy bloke because my teeny brains a bit confused.” He said, taking a sip of beer (it reaaly didn't suit him but he wanted to go for the country pub look) I sighed heavily.

“He’s just this dude from high school who was desperate to get a girlfriend and asked everyone out, he wasn't bad or anything, he just wasn't cool and I guess in highs school being un-cool was a serious no-no dating wise,” I kinda felt guilty, “it’s just weird seeing Billie with him, and him looking so, well, cool.” James laughed.

“Hunnie sometimes you just got to see it on the bright side, they look as though they are getting on, and if he’s nice then what does it matter?”

“I know, I know, it’s just weird, something’s just weird,” I sighed. 

Christmas Arguing,

The next morning I woke up to the sound of the shower running. I got up and fixed my messy hair before running into Max’s room. “Race you!” I shouted with a laugh. It was a tradition that we always raced down to the tree on Christmas morning. This time I won. “Ha!” I laughed.

“Whatever!” he moaned with a smile. We sat down by the tree and waited in anticipation until mum and dad came down stairs. I did feel kinda silly at my age getting excited by Christmas presents but I hardly got to see my brother anymore and I didn't want to seem all grown up and boring to him.

“Right, right you can open them now,” mum laughed entering the room, followed by dad with the tea. I grabbed one of my presents from my parents and unwrapped it.

“Aw, thank you!” I exclaimed, they had brought me a new set of make-up brushes which I’d asked for. I also got a few CD’s, a Chris Hemsworth calendar (soo freaking hot!) and I pretty Swarovski crystal necklace in my birthstone colour, Amethyst (purple.) My brother got some new clothes, a new shaver, a football magazine subscription and some computer games.  Id bought my mum a silver necklace with a watering can on it (she had recently gotten into gardening) and my dad a fancy new calculator. Just as we were opening cards for relatives my sister walked into the door.

“Hey guys,” she smiled, dumping her bag on the floor and slouching down on the sofa.

“Here,” I smiled handing some of her presents.

“You got me stuff?” she asked confused.

“Yeah, got you something little and mum and dad got you stuff.” I smiled.

“Oh, I didn't think we would still do that?” she laughed, ripping open the present. I took it she didn't get us anything.

“Oh great… erm thanks sis,” she smiled dumping it on the side and getting out her phone. She was twenty four and still acted like a teenager. We carried on opening the cards and calling family members back in the Philippines wishing them all a happy Christmas while mum made us all some breakfast. 

After breakfast Mel and I helped wash up. “So how’s America?” I asked, almost envious.

“Its waaay better than here,” she smiled, “I mean everything bigger and better and the people are so much nicer and the guys, oh my god,” she laughed, drying a bowel. I smiled.

“Aren't you glad to be home though?” I asked.

“Well, the truth is mum hassled me for days and days and pretty much guilt tripped me into this whole visit, I was quite happy you know going to one of the pubs and hooking up on Christmas eve,” she laughed. I was silent, why was she so selfish? “I mean wouldn't you? I've done this while present, family, eating thing for twenty four years now, it’s just boring but I guess “Christmas wouldn't be the same without me” would it?” she grinned almost smugly.

“Mel, you don’t have to be so mean, you live in America, they hardly see you, it’s not like you visit them, all they want to do is spend time with their daughter and its Christmas, who wants cheap meaningless sex on Christmas?”
“I do!” jeez when are you gonna grow up and live a little?” I put the plate I was drying down.
“You know what? You’re the childish one, you’re bratty and selfish, you can’t even be happy to see your own family, I wish you’d never even bothered coming here!” I shouted.
“Scarlett why are you being all psycho?! You’re not ten anymore!” she shouted back.
“I just don’t get you! One day, that’s all it was, one day you just had to smile and be nice and at least pretend to be happy to see us!”
“Oh my god calm down!”
“No!” I shouted, “and you know what thanks, thanks for the presents for the Christmas card for the calls telling me how you were, the sisterly chats we NEVER have!” I was almost screaming now.
“Go away Scarlett, your just annoyed I’m not here with a boyfriend for you to steal…”
“What the fuck?! Is that what this is about?” When we were in our late teens, before she had moved out, Mel had a boyfriend who fancied me, I know I was in the wrong and if it had happened now I promise it wouldn't have turned out the same way but basically we saw each other behind her back and eventually she found out.
“You always get anything you want, I bet mum and dad brought you everything you wanted for Christmas and pay for your stupid apartment and car so you can drive to your stupid job, what do you do again? Oh yeah cut open little animals, how glamorous” she mocked. I shook my head in disbelief. “Anyway you stay here and play happy families, I’m going out.”
“Next time stay in fucking America!” I shouted before she slammed the door. 

After she had gone Max let me play with him on his new Xbox game. Who knew shooting pixel people could relief so much stress?
“Don’t worry about Mel,” he said, “She’s just jealous because everyone likes you more and you’re much cooler.” We both laughed. After a few more rounds of his game I got up.
“Come on, let’s go help mum with dinner.
“Your my favourite sister anyway,” he said turning off his game. It was sweet of him to say that, I don’t think he meant much saying it but it meant a lot to me. I loved my family I couldn’t see why my sister had become so selfish and mean. Anyway it didn’t matter anymore; I wasn’t going to let her ruin my Christmas.

The rest of the day was great. A few family members came over and we watched some TV and played games. Even though I was angry at my sister I did kinda miss her. Maybe tomorrow we could try to fix things…

Home sweet home.

The next morning I woke up and hit the gym for a couple of hours before returning home, showering and getting myself ready to go to the station. I was getting the train there and I knew the station would be extra busy since everyone was traveling just before Christmas. I was just packing the last of my things when I heard my phone buzz.
“Hey hunnie!”
“Hey mum!” I laughed, pleased to hear her voice.
“I was just calling to check you were still coming over.”
“Of course,” I laughed, “I’ve been looking forward to coming home for ages!”
“Your sister is coming too!”
“Wait, Really?” My sister is three years older than me and now lived in America, I was seriously surprised she was coming home for Christmas.
“Yes, she called this morning and said she was catching a flight over here tonight, she will be here tomorrow, If the weathers not too bad..”
“That’s great I can’t wait to see her!” I genuinely was pleased to hear she was coming, even though we weren't always the best of friends. 

Waterloo station was heaving. As I scanned the board for the next train to Haselmere I got knocked by about three times by scurrying business men with no manners. I found the platform number and dragged my suit case onto the train as fast as I could; I needed to get a seat. The train was about an hour and a half and for the majority of the trip I sat and stared out of the window watching as the tall grey buildings faded and pretty country scenes appeared along with rows and rows of trees which didn't see much of in the big city and defiantly missed. Even though the vet surgery was just outside of the center of London and therefore easy for me to drive to I still didn't get that open space id been craving for a while now. I was lucky my train wasn't delayed, I’d heard on the news the weather had cause lots of delays and cancellations. I lifted my eyes away from the window and noticed a smart looking business man, probably in his early thirties watching me. I quickly looked away but when I looked back over he was coming towards me.
“Hey, I’m sorry; I never normally do this but, would you like my number? I mean I’d love to take you out somewhere when you’re not busy.” I looked at him blankly. I wasn't expecting to be asked out on a date.
  
“Oh,” I smiled, “sure, I’m just heading to my parents for Christmas, maybe we could go out after?” I told him. He smiled, he had a handsome smile. He had short brown hair and was quite athletic looking, especially for a business man. However he was quite plain and ordinary looking.
“I’m Jake by the way,” he smiled, flashing his white teeth. I smiled back. Maybe he was more Billie's type…

When I arrived at my parents I was greeted by hugs and kisses and I felt warm inside.

“Look at the tree!” explained my mum, dragging me into the living room. She was a short Filipino woman (a little shorter than me, I’m 5.1) with cropped black hair.

“It’s great mum,” I laughed. Just then dad walked into the room and I ran to give him a big hug.

“How’s work?” he smiled, it was typical that dads first words to me after not seeing me for months were about work.

“Fine as always,” I smiled rolling my eyes.

“Good girl, now let’s eat!” he laughed.

“Whens Mel getting here?” I asked, helping to set up the table for mum. Melanie was my older sisters name.

“Not till tomorrow, I’ll save her some,” she smiled. For dinner we had Sinigang which is a Filipino stew dish made with pork and flavored with tomato, string beans and taro, it’s also eaten with rice. It was super yummy and after all the pizza take-away I'd eaten over the last couple of months I really appreciated some good home cooked food, especially made by my mummy.

 

After dinner we sat in the lounge and mum chatted on and on about family members and plans for Christmas. I told her about Billie and James coming over on boxing day and she got really excited saying what she was going to cook and prepare for us (she loves having guests over) and I felt relaxed and happy. Dad asked me some more questions about work and how my training was going. I told him I was pleased and even if I’m working and I veterinary nurse till next year (which is probably likely) I’d still be happy as I was enjoying my time working there and learning from Michael. He seemed pleased which was great. I grabbed the presents I’d packed for my family and placed them under the tree along with the others. Just when I was getting a snack from the fridge I heard the front door open.
“Hey,” I heard a familiar voice call out.
“Max!” I shouted, “I’m in here!” Max was my little brother, he was sixteen now and I couldn't believe how tall he had gotten.

“Wow dude!” I laughed, giving him a massive hug, “how’s things?” I smiled ruffling his hair up. 

“Oi!” he laughed, “things are okay.” He shrugged.
“Good, how’s school, how’s your friends how’s Suzy?” I giggled, Suzy was his girlfriend.
“Fine, fine, fine.” He groaned getting left overs out of the fridge. In a funny way I’d missed his teenage-ness. I wanted to say more to him but he was obviously tired, he’d just got back from football training so I went upstairs.

Upstairs I unpacked my stuff and placed it into my old room. It felt strange being in there again now I was older; it was like I didn't fit. I had a long bath and washed my hair. I found my old diaries from when I was younger and sat up reading them and giggling to myself until I drifted off to sleep.