Lovers in Japan/Reign of Love (Intro)

"Lovers, keep on the road you're on
Runners, until the race is run
Soldiers, you've got to soldier on
Sometimes even right is wrong

They are turning my head out
To see what I'm all about
Keeping my head down
To see what it feels like now
But I have no doubt
One day, we are gonna get out

Tonight maybe we're gonna run
Dreaming of the Osaka sun
Ohh ohh...
Dreaming of when the morning comes" Lovers in Japan/Reign of Love by Coldplay

Wednesday morning was the official start of our vacation time. After Trevor finished packing, we went to my place. I already had what I wanted to wear set aside; I just had to get it inside my luggage and pack my toiletries and make-up.

I put my hair up in a high ponytail and packed my flat iron and hot curlers. I was regretting turning down Jasmine's offer of a haircut. I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with my hair, but right now it took a lot of maintenance.

I was deciding between shoes when my phone rang. It was Rocky.

"Good morning." I said, hoping I sounded cool and casual.

"Good morning. We missed you last night at McFadden's." Rocky told me.

"Yeah, Trevor and I decided to stay in, get ready for our trip." 

"I figured. What time does your flight leave?" She asked.

"12:20, but we're leaving as soon as I'm ready." 

"Do y'all need a ride?" Rocky offered.

"No, we're taking a cab." I answered quickly. I still wasn't ready to see her.

"Are you ok?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. Just double checking things in my head. I don't want to forget anything." I said, as coolly as possible.

"Ok. I'll let you go. Call me when y'all make it to Japan."

"I'll probably text. It's a 12 hour flight, 14 hour time difference. I have no idea what day or time it'll be in Dallas... or Japan really." I explained rapidly.

"I just want to know y'all got there safely, text, email, whatever."

"Gotcha."

"Be safe. Have fun!"

"You too!" I said, automatically. Then I thought about how that sounded. "That's dumb, you're just working that's not fun and of course you'll be safe. Um, just take care."

"I will. Get some sleep on the flight." She said.

"Definitely."

I put my phone down and exhaled deeply.

Was I really holding my breath?

"Was that as awkward as it sounded?" Trevor teased me.

I gave him a little smile. "I don't know what to say to her. I keep thinking what the hell is she doing? How can she keep a secret like that?"

"By pretending it didn't happen. She cut Bilal out of her life. That's why he told me. He wasn't dealing with it great."

"I'm sorry if I don't feel bad for Bilal. He knew she was in a relationship." I said stubbornly.

"I know. I feel the same way but I have sympathy for him."

"I'll save my sympathy for Brandon."

"And Noorie." Trevor added.

"Nope, none for her. She knew what she was getting into when she got back with Bilal."

"She doesn't know Bilal is still in love with Rocky."

"He is?" I said, surprised.

"Yeah."

"What a mess." I sighed, sadly.

"I have a suggestion..." Trevor said.

"What's the plan?" I said, curious to see who he favored.

I used to wish for Rocky and me to date Bilal and Trevor and we would be the fantastic four together, but not like this. I felt for Brandon. He gave Rocky everything she wanted or asked for. Rocky was happy with him. Or so I thought.

"We should go on a trip and leave it all behind." Trevor smiled.

I laughed. "Best plan ever. You call the cab and bring in your bag while I finish packing."

"We're really leaving this early?" Trevor complained, standing up.

"Yes. It's an international flight. We need to be early. Move it!" I said, swatting him on the butt.

"Do it again."

"Go!" I laughed, pushing him away. I packed my wedges and ballet flats. I then put my charger, phone, sunglasses, and an extra jacket in my large tote bag. I lugged it all downstairs.

"Cab is on its way." Trevor announced, pulling in his smaller luggage.

"Alright, you got the tickets?" I said.

"Of course."

"ID and passport?" I questioned.

"Right here." He said, pulling out his wallet.

"Cash?" I asked.

"Some." he said, watching me.

"We'll pull out some more. Pocket translator with the list I gave you?"

"In my pocket." 

His phone rang and he answered it. It was the cab driver, letting us know he was outside.

"You ready?" Trevor asked me.

"So ready!" I said, excitedly. I checked on Justine and rubbed her stomach lovingly before we left.

The traffic was clear and we made it to the airport in no time. We got our boarding passes and walked to immigration. After immigration, we got our bags and went through customs. They rechecked our bags before we went through security again. I was tying up my converse when Trevor dragged his bag over after he went through the security check.

"So we have an hour..." he pointed out to me, giving me a grin.

"Shut up and let's go eat breakfast." I said, standing once I had my shoes on.

We got breakfast sandwiches and Iced Coffee at Dunkin Donuts. Trevor grabbed donuts for the flight and we walked around the terminal. I pulled out additional cash from an ATM and put it away in my purse.

We went to a newsstand and I bought a Glamour and Cosmopolitan magazine. I had already downloaded Stephen Covey's The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People on my tablet. We also picked up snack food that I threw in my big bag.

It was finally time to start boarding for the flight. Since neither one of us was in a huge rush to get on the plane and wait for everyone to board, we waited to be one of the last to board the plane. On the walkway to the plane, I stopped Trevor.

"I need a picture!" I said suddenly, pulling out my phone.

"Let's get one on the plane." Trevor said.

"No, now! Tap the top of the doorway." I said, pulling out my phone.

"What?" Trevor laughed.

"Yeah. Tap it. It's what athletes do when they have a big game!" I commanded.

"I have a big game?"

"A big meeting! This could kick off your career if the website sells. Get excited! Get your game face on and take the damn picture!" I exclaimed.

"Alright." He said, posing like I asked. I snapped the picture and showed it to him.

"That looks goofy." He laughed.

"It looks like the first day of the rest of your life." I disagreed.

We got on the plane and made a short journey to our seats. Christopher Diaz, the owner of the company who was interested in buying the website, shelled out for the spacious seat in the front of the airplane that only had two in a row. After Trevor put his bag away, he took the window seat as I would be getting it on the way back. I put my bigger bag under his seat and sat my purse beneath mine. We took one more picture before we got settled and the plane took off.

As soon as the plane leveled in the sky, I pulled out my magazines and started reading. Trevor actually looked at the Cosmopolitan magazine with me. It was fun until he actually thought being on a plane filled with people was the best time have a discussion about what we wanted to try. I skipped the love and sex section all together when he started bookmarking pages. I read through the rest before I moved on to the next magazine.

The beverage cart made its way to us with drinks and took our lunch order. After lunch and 4 hours into the flight, Trevor fell asleep. I was too excited to sleep, so I pulled out the book Forrest recommended. I was surprised how much I got into it. I didn't look up until the flight attendant came and took our dinner order.

When the food arrived, I put my tablet away and woke Trevor up. I was thinking about the book as we ate together.

"What's on your mind?" Trevor asked me.

"I was just thinking about my funeral." I shared.

"Geez Lily. Not the best thing to think about on a plane." Trevor shook his head.

I smirked. "I actually wasn't being negative. One of the habits of the book I'm reading is to begin with an end in mind, meaning know where you want to be so you know what direction to go. If you think about what you want said at your funeral, it shows you what you value. Then, you make a mission statement and go from there." I explained.

"What do you want said at you funeral?" Trevor asked.

"I don't know." I admitted, sipping my wine. "I don't know who I want invited to my funeral." I joked.

"I promise, I'll be there." Trevor laughed at me, pulling out the donuts after he finished eating. I guess they were his dessert.

"What makes you think you would still be alive?" I teased. "Women live longer than men! And you eat horribly!" I said, pointing to his donuts.

"Fine. If I'm alive, I'll be there. I know what I'm gonna say about you already darling." He said, seriously.

I smiled, touched. "What Trevor?"

"Ha! I outlived you. I'm gonna deliver donuts to the cemetery too." Trevor's face broke out in a smile.

"There's a special place in hell for you!"

Trevor leaned over and gave me a kiss. "Think there's donuts down there too?"

After I finished eating, the wine started kicking in and I finally dozed off. I woke up later, completely disoriented and confused to what time it was and how long we've been on the flight. Trevor was awake, reading through something on his phone.

"What time is it?" I asked, groggily. 

"It depends where we are." He smiled at me. I glared in return and he chuckled.

"I'm not sure, but there's about 2 more hours left in the flight. I asked the flight attendant. I got you a coke too."

I nodded. "Thanks. Be right back. I gotta use the restroom.

After I returned from the bathroom, I asked Trevor what he was reading. It was a bio of the man that was trying to buy the website.

"He started out in school for computer programming too. He sold a website in college, finished his degree and now buys and sells websites for a living." Trevor explained.

"He must be good at what he does. Obviously he has a great eye for talent" I said, rubbing him on his arm proudly.

"Yeah... he might just like the concept of the site and change everything about it." Trevor said, with a lopsided smile.

"I seriously doubt that." I argued.

"Maybe." He shrugged.

"Probably!"

2 hours later we were descending into Tokyo, Japan. I leaned over as far as I could to see out the window too. I was so excited not only to get off the plane, but experience a country I've never been to before. I rushed Trevor so we could one of the first ones off. We held hands together as we walked into the huge airport. 

The arrival was just as tedious as departing. We went to quarantine first and filled out the questionnaire. Then we went to the immigration counter. After our passport inspections, we were able to go to the baggage claim and get my luggage. Lastly, we went through customs again. By the time we made it to the arrival lobby, I was exhausted.

I pulled out my phone. "Oh my gosh, it's 4pm. Thursday!" I exclaimed as I sent a quick text to my brother and Rocky that we made it. "Shouldn't be hard to find a taxi right?"

"Not necessary." Trevor said, beaming. I looked to where he was staring. There was a tall man with a sign that read "Trevor Tobin" standing in the lobby. I immediately pepped up.

"Is that Kenji?" I asked surprised as Trevor led us to him.

"No."

We approached the guy and when Trevor told him who he was, he nodded at both of us.

"Mr. Diaz hired me for your entire stay. I've been instructed to take you to your hotel first, if that's okay with you." He said, taking my luggage

"That sounds perfect." Trevor agreed.

"Wait." I stopped Trevor, pointing at the currency exchange. "Let's exchange money first."

We went to exchange our dollars into yen while our driver took the bags to the car. We finally left the airport and headed to the hotel. When I asked, the driver explained that we were staying in Shinjuku, one of the 23 wards of Tokyo. It was so unique to look and see large buildings and skyscrapers with Japanese characters. 

I probably drove Haru crazy with all my questions but he patiently answered every one of them. I mostly asked for translations about things I was seeing and his suggestions about what we should do. He gave the common touristy things I found online: Cherry blossoms at the National Park, observation deck at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, shrines, and shopping malls. I was hoping his suggestions would be things I haven't heard of.

I finally shut up when we pulled up to the Park Hyatt where we were staying. It was huge! Trevor tried to tip Haru, but he refused. When we went inside, I found out the hotel took up the top 14 floors of the 52 floors that comprised the Shinjuku Park Tower. We went to the front desk and checked in, eager to view our room. Everything was so elegant. Very understated but so beautiful. 

We went up to our room on the 45th floor. The room featured green marble and granite, decorated with charming artwork and modern artifacts. The breathtaking views got my attention. There were massive windows overlooking Shinjuku and the park from the work area and a nice view of Mt. Fuji from the window in the bathroom next to the deep soaking tub. When I came out from taking pictures in the bathroom, Trevor was sprawled out on the king size bed. I smiled and bounced on the bed, joining him.

"This is amazing." I cooed. 

"It is." Trevor smiled at me. 

Trevor's phone rang. He showed me the screen that said Kenji. He answered it and put it on speaker phone.

"Konbanwa." Kenji greeted Trevor over the phone.

"Er- Konnichiwa." Trevor said in return.

Kenji laughed. "Is that all you know how to say?"

"Pretty much." Trevor laughed as I smiled at him. "Lily's here. She's been studying since she found out we were coming."

"Ok, Lily. Nihon e youkoso! {Welcome to Japan}" Kenji said to me.

"Arigatou. Nihon dai-suki.{Thank you. Japan is the best}" I replied, carefully.

"Yoku dekimashita. Very good! I promise, you're not going to want to leave." Kenji said, friendly.

"Hey, what are y'all talking about?" Trevor blurted out. 

I chuckled. "He welcomed me to Japan and I said thanks, Japan is awesome." 

"Oh, ok. It's pretty cool." Trevor smiled.

"I know you must be tired after that long flight, but would it be okay if we met up for dinner?" Kenji suggested. 

Trevor looked at me and I nodded.

"Sure. Just give us an hour to get ready." Trevor answered. 

"Ok. We'll meet you in the lobby." Kenji said before hanging up. I got up from the bed.

"Where are you going?" Trevor winked at me.

"To go get ready."

"Aww, it's really going to take an hour?" Trevor complained.

"If I hurry." I winked at him.

I was ready to go in 45 minutes. I plugged in my hot curlers on the bathroom counter then I took a quick hot shower. I put my hair up in the curlers before I let Trevor take a shower next. I did my make-up and then I slid on a multi-print pleated dress. I went back in the bathroom to take out my curlers. I finished my hair as Trevor was buttoning up his white dress shirt that he paired with jeans.

"You look nice." I complimented him.

"You look beautiful." Trevor replied, giving me a kiss on the lips. 

"Thank you." I said, kissing him back.

We headed to the lobby hand and hand. Kenji and Cat joined us shortly after we arrived. Kenji was nothing like I imagined him. From our first conversation over the phone when Trevor was sick, I pictured him as a short, dorky looking guy with an intense Napoleon complex. He was the complete opposite: Tall, handsome with an easy going smile.

He shook hands with me and said, "Hajimemashite.{It's our first time meeting}"

I repeated after him, but added. "Lily desu. {I'm Lily}"

"Watashi wa Kenji desu. Douzo yoroshiku {As for me, I'm Kenji. Please treat me kindly}" He replied.

"What does Dou-zo yoro-" I struggled.

"Douzo yoroshiku. Its English equivalence is nice to meet you." Kenji explained. 

"Douzo yoroshiku." I repeated with a smile.

"Hey Cat, you still speak English?" Trevor said, giving her a hug.

"I sure do." Cat laughed.

"Damare Trevor! {Shut Up Trevor}" I ordered him.

"Should I translate that?" Kenji asked me with a smile.

"No need. I can tell by her tone she told me to shut up. I would know it in any language." Trevor said.

"And yet you never listen to me..."

Trevor told Kenji about the driver Mr. Diaz set up for us. Kenji wanted to walk so we could get the feel of the city. He promised he would pick a restaurant close to the hotel. Literally 10 minutes away from the hotel was the Shinjuku metro station. Kenji pointed out different areas to us as we walked.

"Over there is the skyscraper district, and Kabukicho has electronic stores, malls, bars-" Kenji explained.

"Red light district!" Cat cut him off.

"Yes, that too."

"Our driver didn't tell us about that; he only told us about the touristy stuff. I wanna do some of that too, but more than that." I said.

"So you wanna do the red light district?" Trevor grinned.

"No!" I shook my head.

"Friday I have the novel release, the website reopening, and the meeting with Mr. Diaz. How bout you and Trevor do the touristy stuff on Saturday with your driver and I can show you around Sunday." Kenji offered.

I nodded.

"That sounds great." Trevor agreed.

"And I can take you two out Friday before the meeting. Any place you wanna visit?" Cat asked.

"I want to visit Harajuku. Trevor wants to visit the electronic shops." I told her.

"That's so touristy." Cat said, with a teasing smile.

"Don't let her fool you. Harajuku was the first place she wanted to go too." Kenji outed her.

"Anyway, we can do some shopping too. I know the best spots!" Cat smiled at me.

"Perfect!" I agreed.

Kenji took us to Omoide Yokocho. It was like a small alley filled with little restaurants. I heard of holes on the wall, but these were that times 10. They were tiny little eateries with maybe a few tables, but mostly standing room. Kenji led us to one with an open counter with two stools. Cat and I sat down while Kenji ordered food in Japanese. 

We sipped on beer and sake as Kenji explained what we were about to eat. Kushiyaki was skewered meat and vegetables and Kenji ordered several different kinds and soba noodles for us to try.

 When the food came out, after I took a picture, I sampled everything. Trevor stuck to Yakitori, skewered chicken, but my favorite was the oysters. We also had mushroom and bacon wrapped tomatoes. The noodles were shaped like spaghetti in a thin broth covered with scallions. I actually preferred ramen, but it was still pretty good. I got stuffed on the kushiyaki. It was delicious.

After we ate, we wobbled back to the metro station. We separated with Kenji and Cat, telling them we'd see them bright and early in the morning. Everything looked so beautiful lit up in the dark. Even though I was stuffed, exhausted, and dead on my feet, I had to stop and take pictures with Trevor. 

The 10 minutes it took to get to the station took twice as long because we were moving slower and checking out the city at night. 

When we got back to the hotel room, I collapsed on the bed.

"Did I say thank you for inviting me?" I asked Trevor, laying my head on his chest.

"Not yet. I saved in that sex magazine what I want as a thank you. Can I get it tomorrow?" Trevor said, pulling me into his arms as I snuggled against him under the covers.

"It's not a sex magazine! But please save it, unless you can do it while I sleep." I smirked, looking up at him.

Trevor pretended like he was thinking about it. I poked him in the chest.

He groaned but chuckled. "Fine. I'll wait. C'mon morning time." He said against my ear.

St. Patrick's Day

*Sorry in advance for any errors. Danielle, the awesome editor, didn't proof this one before I posted. I'm trying to get another post up tonight or tomorrow. This is a bonus thank you for my inconsistent posting. I'm also hoping to get back to real time... Wish me luck! 


"We should take a ride tonight around the town 
and look around at all the beautiful houses
something in the way that blue lights on a black night can make you feel more
everybody, it seems to me, just wants to be
just like you and me 
No one wants to be alone at Christmas time
Come January we're frozen inside
Making new resolutions a hundred times
February, won't you be my valentine? 
And if our always is all that we gave
And we someday take that away
I'll be alright if it was just 'til St. Patrick's Day" St. Patrick's Day by John Mayer

“So your place or mine?” Trevor asked me after we dropped Jordan off at the apartment she shared with Derek.

“My place, if that’s okay with you. I need to check on Justine. We can pick her up and go to your place if you want.” I offered, trying to be extra accommodating, especially when I thought about how ridiculous I acted Saturday.

I kept thinking about how many people told me I was immature, Sammy, Jake, Rocky, even my brother. I think Ethan said it best when he said I was too much drama. Trevor didn't deserve that. He was being a good friend, just like he always has been for me. I couldn't believe the bitch fit I had. I was upset at the situation; I shouldn't have taken it out on him. I did need to grow up and apologize to Trevor.

“Your place is fine.” Trevor told me, alleviating my worries and grabbing my hand. I smiled at him nervously.

When we pulled up to my apartment, I saw that Jasmine's car was outside. I let myself into the apartment. The living room was filled with random people. Ok, maybe not random people, obviously her friends, but they were random to me.

“Hey.” Trevor said in general, waving at everyone. I just headed straight to the living room, looking for Justine or Jasmine. I walked to the kitchen and then the den. I didn't see Justine or Jasmine. I went back into the living room. One of the girls that was sitting on the couch before came inside from the patio with Jasmine. The smell of BBQ smoke drafted in from outside.

“Hey Lily! You’re back.” Jasmine greeted me.

“I am. Where’s Justine?” I asked.

“Upstairs in your room.”

My face must have showed my confusion, because she quickly said, “She kept trying to come outside and the guys are outside grilling.”

“Next time just put up the gates.” I told her, leading Trevor up the stairs.

"That's Jake's ex?" One of her friends said, obnoxiously. I ignored them and headed to my room.

 “Hey babygirl!” I cooed, kneeling to pet Justine as she jumped on me when I opened the door.

She raced to Trevor next. Trevor petted her too before she came back to me. She jumped between us, so excited.

"Looks like someone missed us.” Trevor smiled at me.

“I know. I wonder what Jasmine’s been doing to her…” I said, sitting down on my bed.

“Nothing! I took her to the park and we went for a walk and I even gave her a bath” Jasmine exclaimed passionately from the hallway.

“I’m just kidding. Thank you.” I told her with a smile.

"Kendal barbecued! Come downstairs and join us." Jasmine invited us.

"No, we're gonna get going." I told her.

"No! You just got here. Don't leave!" She pouted. "I'm sorry I didn't let you know I was having people over. I wasn't sure when you were coming back-"

"It's fine, Jasmine. Trevor and I are just going to hang at his place tonight." I reassured her.

"Well eat first or at least take it to go. There's plenty of food." Jasmine said before going back downstairs.

Trevor cocked an eyebrow at me. "Do you wanna stay?"

"Do you?" I replied.

"I'm kinda hungry."

"Do you wanna eat here though?"

"What do you want?" He asked me.

I took a deep breath. "I just really want to talk to you."

He came over and sat on the bed next to me. "Ok, talk."

"I'm sorry for the way I acted yesterday." I said, quickly. I hated admitting when I was wrong, but I was, so I got that out the way first. "I was just hurt that Rocky kept that from me." I told him.

"I know, but that has nothing to do with you. It has to do with Rocky." Trevor pointed out.

"I understand that now. It just hurt even more when you called me negative, like it was my fault she didn't tell me." I lamented.

"I shouldn't have said that. I'm sorry." Trevor apologized.

"I know that it's true. Negative or petty or whatever, that's just how I am. I told you that before we got together. I'm working on it." I admitted.

"Lily, I don't think you're negative or petty. It's just,...hard for me to talk to you when I know you're not going to like what I have to say. I don't want to argue with you." Trevor said.

"Sometimes your assumptions about my reactions aren't always right. Like with the whole Becca thing. I was mad because you didn't tell me. You assumed I was going to be mad if you went. Why can't you give me the benefit of the doubt?" I asked.

"I will start doing that if you promise to start talking to me. I don't yell and curse because I don't want to be like my dad. For you, it's either ignore it or blow up. I don't want either one of them Lily. I want to be able to talk to you, even when you're upset or we disagree."

I nodded slowly, a little stunned by his confession. It never occurred to me how I came off to him when I was mad. I always felt so justified in my own feelings, I never thought about his. He spent his childhood listening to his father yell, curse and put him down. How could I do that no matter how upset I was?

I blinked back my tears. "I'm sorry." I said again, solemnly.

"I am too." Trevor said, holding my hand. I looked at his hand, appreciative to have him, but deeply ashamed of my actions. I went from one extreme to the other: having my world revolve around other's feelings to being completely self centered. How did I find middle ground?

"C'mon. Let's go eat." Trevor said, pulling me up. I forced a smile before following him downstairs.

We joined everyone but sat at the empty dining room table.

"How was South by Southwest?" Kendal asked us as Trevor and I dug in.

I blushed. Even though they weren't around to witness it, I was even more embarrassed by my horrible behavior after Trevor told me how he felt.

"It was fun. It's always a good time." Trevor answered, while I stared at my food. "It was your first time Lily. What did you think?" Trevor asked me.

I looked up at him and flashed him a little smile. "Way different than I imagined."

"How so?" Malik asked.

"It's huge, like miles and miles and miles. I don't know why I was thinking it was like a Woodstock, but it was actually a lot more than concerts." I answered.

"What all did you do?" Jasmine asked.

"We did a technology panel and an art gallery together. I went to a gaming convention, Trevor saw a film screening-"

"Fast and Furious?" Kendal asked. I loomed at Trevor curiously. I had no idea what they saw. I didn't even ask.

"No, I heard there was a secret midnight screening. I saw some horror film." Trevor answered.

"Did y'all like it?" Jasmine asked.

"It was ok." Trevor shrugged.

"Did you like it Lily?" Jake asked me.

"I didn't see it. I went to a concert." I answered.

"You wouldn't have liked it. It was a lot of gore and "AH!" scary moments." Trevor smiled at me, before he stopped. "Or maybe you would have." He finished, plainly.

I forced another smile. "I wouldn't have. Remember when you made me watch The Ring and I couldn't watch TV for a week?" I reminded him. Trevor grinned at me.

"That was bad. You didn't even have a TV in your room and you slept with the lights on."

"You thought The Ring was bad? Don't ever see Paranormal Activity." Kendal laughed.

That led to a discussion about the scariest movie and the funniest, not so scary movies. At the end of the night, everyone filed out pretty early, including Trevor.

"I gotta make sure I have work clothes, but I'll see you tomorrow?" Trevor asked. I nodded and gave him a kiss goodbye.



Monday, I went to work, trying to get over the guilt I felt for my recent actions. I didn't even reach out to Rocky because I didn't know what to say. I couldn't tell her that I knew. She didn't want me to know. And while I was trying to be a more mature person, I wasn't there yet. I didn't know how to shake it off and act normal.

I did a decent job at pretending. I chatted with Jordan and Kendal at work, made plans to meet up with Amber on St. Patrick's Day with some of her co-workers, I even made dinner for Trevor at his apartment Monday night. He only caught me once thinking to myself about our future together. I played it off like I was planning for our upcoming trip to Japan.

I talked him into letting me buy him something new. I told him I was thinking about what he should wear to his business meeting but in reality I was thinking about my problems.

"What's wrong with my button downs?" Trevor asked.

"There's nothing wrong with them. They're just... numerous. Besides, you need something more dressy." I told him.

"Fine. Pick out something that matches you." He agreed.

"Why? I'm not going to your meeting." I frowned.

"Yeah, but you're coming home with me for Easter. If you don't wanna see another button down, find something for that too." Trevor told me with a grin.



That's how I found myself in the men's section at H&M on Tuesday. I was totally clueless what would be appropriate for Easter Sunday and a business meeting in Japan. I knew Trevor would wear whatever I got him, but he was so causal, I didn't want him to be uncomfortable. I was lost.

Thankfully, Forrest was on Spring Break from his school and apparently had nothing better to do than hang out and shop with me.

"Hey, I tried to help. Rachel gave me my tasks. I'm done until May." Forrest joked, giving me a hug when I pointed out that he should be spending his Spring Break working on the wedding.

"Well, you can help me shop then!" I exclaimed.

I told him what Trevor told me about Easter and we started searching. He held up nice blue blazer.

"With what?" I asked, looking it over.

"Jeans for causal, matching blue slacks for a suit. You can put this over a t-shirt and it'll look good. It's called multipurpose." Forrest explained.

"Oooo, so you do have some style. Here I was thinking Rachel dressed you." I joked.

"I was rocking fitted jeans and Polo's when everyone else was sagging and wearing Jerseys." Forrest informed me.

"Kudos to you. I hate sagging pants. I swear the amount of underwear I have to see is ridiculous." I complimented him.

"I don't know what's worse: that, or male skinny jeans." He shuddered.

"Doesn't that hurt?" I giggled.

"I wouldn't know. I can't do it."

I held up a pair of extra slim navy skinny pants. "I think Trevor can pull this off."

"Sure, you wouldn't have to worry about birth control anymore." Forrest joked.

I winced. "Maybe I should buy them. I can guarantee Trevor doesn't want kids with me anytime soon."

"Uh-Oh, what's going on?" Forrest asked.

"Nothing." I said picking out a pair of navy slacks in Trevor's size. I took them to the front to pay for the items. After I checked out, I treated Forrest to lunch. Since it was St. Patrick's Day, I took him to Bennigans.

A pretty waitress came and took our order. We ordered Housemade Cottage Pie, Beer-Battered Fish & Chips and a tower of onion rings to share. Forrest order a Guinness as well. I didn't like dark beer, so I stuck with water. We ate and I talked about random things to get my mind off putting myself down.

"You serve ice cream on the brownie for dessert right?" Forrest asked.

"Yes sir, we do." The waitress answered in a friendly tone.

"Can I just get one scoop in a glass?" Forrest asked.

"Normally we don't do that, but I can do that for you." She winked.

Forrest smiled at her. "Thank you. And one more beer."

The waitress came back quickly with his beer and ice cream. I was equal parts of disgusted and intrigued when he poured the beer over the ice cream.

"This is all yours, if you tell me what's going on with you and Trevor." Forrest bargained.

"I will tell you, not because you bribed me, but because I respect your opinion." I said, grabbing the beer float from him.

As I enjoyed the mixture of bitter cold beer and the creamy sweet ice-cream, I told Forrest about my behavior. Not what led up to the argument, just my reaction to being upset and wrong. I told him that's how I normally act when I feel mad or treated wrong. I flip out or hold it all in.

"I realize how immature that is. My brother told me to stop acting childish, but I don't know how. I feel like I need to put myself on a time out until I do. I don't even know why Trevor wants to be with me. I should break up with him before he hates me. I don't want to lose his friendship. At least we made it to St. Patrick's Day." I explained, sardonically.

"You're right. Y'all should break up." Forrest said, matter of factly.

I couldn't even formulate a response. My mouth just dropped open.

"Can I just say, the next guy you date needs to be outside your circle of friends."

"What?!?" I finally gasped, not believing that was his advice.

He grabbed the salt shaker. "This is you." He grabbed a bunch of sugar packets and scattered them in a circle around the salt. "These are your friends." Finally, he grabbed the pepper and sat it way across the table from the salt and circle of sugar. "This is the next guy you date. Way out the circle."

"I don't want to date another guy. I love Trevor!" I protested.

"Exactly. What makes you think he feels any differently? He loves you: that means he accepts everything about you." Forrest said, putting back the sugar.

"Whatever." I mumbled. "Anymore stupid demonstrations?"

"Sure." Forrest said, laying the pepper down on the table. He held the salt in one hand with a knife like it was standing over the pepper. "Assault with a deadly weapon. Get it? A-salt-with-a-deadly-weapon." He said, slowly.

The waitress bringing our check over burst out laughing. Forrest laughed too. "She got it.

"She's also trying to get a tip!" I blurted. The waitress laughed at that too.

"You two are such a cute couple." She chuckled.

I shook my head. "No, he's engaged and I'm actually taking advice from him." I groaned.

The smile never left her face. "Good luck with that. Happy St. Patrick's Day."

We split the bill and left her a huge tip.

"I'm serious though. I have a book I want you to read. I teach it to my health class." Forrest said as he walked me to my car.

"I'm good with the body stuff. Kinesiology major, doctorate in physical therapy." I listed.

"Mental health is a part of that." He said.

"I'm not into therapy or self help books." I complained.

"This guy Covey compiled a list of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. He has one for teenagers too, that's the one I teach. I learned a lot from reading both. It talks about being proactive versus reactive, seeking to understand then to be understood and physical and mental renewal. If you take something from it, great, if not, it's still an interesting read." Forrest said.

"Alright. I do have a long ass plane ride to Japan. I'll take a look at it." I relented.

"Good. You know, I knew from the first time I met Trevor he had feeling from you." Forrest added.

"Yeah?" I smiled.

"Yeah. He sized me up in a way that wasn't just looking out for a friend. You don't need a time out; you need to stop questioning his feelings and work on yourself. He should support you just like you should support him." Forrest suggested.

 "Alright, alright. I will." I promised.



I decided to start that night. I cancelled on Amber, but promised we would get together when I got back from Japan. I picked up Justine from my place and went to Trevor's apartment. I put on a dark green thong and a black nightie and waited for him to come home. As soon as he walked through the door, I pounced on him, throwing myself in his arm.

"Lily-" He said, before I pressed my lips to his. I kissed him deeply and hungrily. Trevor eagerly returned my kiss when he got over his surprise.

"You're taking the whole "Kiss me, I'm Irish" thing to heart?" Trevor panted slightly.

"I love you. I wanna make it past St. Patrick's Day." I breathed against his mouth.

"6 more hours to go..." Trevor grinned.

"No... I meant in general. I wanna be with you. Past St. Patrick's Day, Christmas, New Years and Valentine's over and over again. I'm in love with you Trevor. I realize I need to do some work on myself, but I'm gonna do it. I promise. I just need you by my side." I poured out my heart to him.

"I'm in love with you too Lily. I knew when you moved to California you were it for me. I'm not going anywhere. I wanna work together with you. On Christmas,.." he trailed of, leading me to the bedroom. "and New Year's..." he said as he laid me down on the bed. "Valentine's..." he listed, as he pulled off his clothes. "And St. Patrick's Day." He said joining me on the bed.

"Speaking of, where's your green?" He looked my body over intensely, his blue eyes a darkened hue. "I owe you a pinch." He murmured, rubbing his fingertips over my hardened nipples.

"No... You just haven't found my green yet." I moaned, looking into his eyes. He gave me a little grin as he lifted my dress from thighs.

"Found it..." he said, teasing my clitoris over my green thong.

"Luck of the Irish." I gasped, as I pulled him on top of me.

Don't Kill the Magic (Trevor's POV)

"If you want space (you could have it)
If you want change (I'll make it drastic)
Sleep on your bed (I'll be your mattress)
Bullet to my head (you could blast it)
Ohh! If you want love! (I'll be tragic)
The way that you love (I can match it)
If you want time (I'll be elastic)
Tell you no lie (You can have it)
No lieee
Just don't kill, don't kill the magic (ohhh)
Just don't kill, don't kill the magic (ohhh)
I'm not ready to give up just yet
We could stay until we both forget
So baby, don't kill, (don't kill) don't kill the magic (ohhh)" Don't Kill the Magic by Magic!

"Lily, don't ruin the whole weekend because of their problems." I tried to say, but Lily turned away before I finished.

"Lily!" I called after her as she stomped forward. I watched her, hoping she would turn back around. Her figure departed and blended in with the crowd. I started to follow after her, until my phone rang in my pocket. It was Cam.

"Hey, we're at the convention center. Where are you all?" Cam asked over the phone.

"It's just me. I'm almost there." I answered, heading in the opposite direction of Lily.

I just hoped she wasn't so upset that she left the group. I sighed as I rubbed my hand through my hair. This is exactly why I didn't wanna come out here this weekend: problems. I rather it be me and Lily hanging out at my place doing nothing than be in the middle of other people's problem.

After Bilal told me what happen between him and Rocky, I automatically thought about Lily. Even though it had nothing to do with her, she would find a way to make it her problem. She was just sensitive like that.

I brushed those feelings aside to try to be there for Bilal; I could tell he was hurt at the time. It was a week after the super bowl and Rocky stopped all contact with him. She wouldn't even answer his calls. He confessed to me they hooked up when he discovered she blocked his number. I asked him what he thought was going to happen between them. He told me nothing.

Rocky's actions showed Bilal that even though he told her how he felt, she was going to go on like it didn't happen or matter. I felt bad for Bilal, but as bad as I felt for Bilal, I felt worse for Brandon.

I don't even wanna think about Lily cheating on me, but it would be worse if I was in the dark about it. Although, things in the dark seem to always find their way to the light. I told Bilal and Rocky both the hookup wasn't going to stay a secret for long.

Bilal was regretful. He said he just wanted to see Rocky happy and if that wasn't with him, he would deal with it. Brandon wasn't going to find out from him. When I tried to talk to Rocky, she cut me off, defiantly telling me I needed to mind my own business.

That's exactly what I planned to do: Keep me and Lily out of it. Lily kept coming to me, upset about how Rocky was treating her. I didn't have to be a rocket scientist to figure out Rocky was pushing her problems on Lily. I told Lily not to worry about it, but it became increasingly harder to keep it 'Rocky and Bilal's business' the more Lily complained to me about Rocky.

I thought it was messed up when Rocky sent Lily the picture of me hanging with Becca, but I let it go because that was my screw up. When she started making Lily question and doubt our relationship, that's when she made it 'my business'. As we planned the trip to SXSW, I told Rocky that Lily knew something was going on with her, so she needed to tell the truth or get over it. She chose the latter.

Maybe if she would have answered Bilal's calls, they could have been on the same page and he wouldn't have told Noorie. Regardless, now Lily knew and she was upset, just like I knew she would be. The only question was how mad she was at me for not telling her.

Normally, I would say sorry so we could move on, but I didn't believe I was wrong for not telling her. I stuck by that: yes, secrets eventually come out, but I wasn't going to be the one to tell it. If Bilal wasn't going to tell, how could I? If Lily didn't understand that, we would just have to disagree. As friends, we could disagree, even argue and say stupid thing, apologize and move on. Hopefully, that hasn't changed.

When I escorted Cam, Jenna, Carly and Amanda to our table, I was worried about Lily drastic change of attitude. I was hoping she wasn't still upset, but the last time she had a mood change that extreme was at our birthday party. When she wasn't drinking, I actually relaxed. Maybe she did agree with me...

... I realized how wrong I was when she started mocking being positive. That's when I knew where I screwed up. I should have stuck to it being Rocky and Bilal's problem and not called her negative, but I just wanted her to stop.

It stopped all right. Now she was doing a complete 180°. She was fixing the problem of her being negative by being fake.

When she wasn't running off with Christian, she spent the rest of the day killing me with kindness. At the art gallery, I tried to just apologize for calling her negative, but she was still being unreasonable. Maybe she wasn't yelling or cursing, but she still was trying to pick a fight. I decided to give her space to calm down. I just watched her when she left me again, telling me to figure out what I wanted.

At the Eco Garden, I continued to watch her. Her face lit up as she looked at the different displays. As she hopped across the LED pods with Serena, smiling and talking animatedly, I knew exactly what I wanted.

When she moved to California, I finally figured out I wanted her. It hadn't changed since then; it wasn't going to change now just because we disagreed. I wanted to keep her happy, but I still wanted her when she was upset. She had to know that.

I stood beside her as she took everything in. I wanted to tell her that magic, fairy tales and happy endings might not be real, but I wanted them with her. I believed in them because I felt them with her.

"Makes you want to believe in magic and fairy tales and happy endings huh?" I asked her.

"Kinda." She finally replied.

I smiled as I watched the lights flicker across her dark hair. I pushed a strand out of her face.

"Lilypad-" I started.

"Lily! There you are!" Jordan interrupted me. "Ian and Christian got us wristband passes to a private show tonight." She said, excitedly.

When Lily looked up at me, questioningly, I told her it was her decision. She chose to go to with Jordan.

"Give me a call after the show." I told her before she left. I was disappointed she wasn't coming with me, but at least I knew she wasn't trying to punish me.

Or at least that's what I thought. After the screening of some creepy horror film, I had no missed calls from Lily. After we walked to the food trucks to grab food and drinks, I finally called her. It went straight to voicemail.

The thought of her blocking my number crossed my mind until Cam called her with the same result. We figured her phone must have died so I called Ian next. Same response: straight to voicemail. I called Christian next. It rang before going to voicemail. I called him again. It rang twice before going to voicemail. I gripped my phone tightly, knowing he ignored the call. I didn't even have Jordan's number to call. I had no other choice but to wait.

Carly started complaining when it hit 12:30. I told them to go ahead and leave. I was sticking around until I heard from them.

"No. What if your phone dies next?" Cam pointed out. He was right. I was down to one bar. "C'mon. I'll take you to Bilal's place to pick up Lily's car, then if you have to come back, you can." Cam suggested.

I nodded and we headed out. We dropped the girls off at the hotel before heading to Bilal's place. Cam went inside with me so I could get Bilal to give Christian a call. Bilal got sent to voicemail too.

"I'm sure he just can't hear the call if they went to a concert." Bilal shrugged as he sat down on the couch with Cam. I continued to stand.

"Christian is attached to his phone. He answers it every time it vibrates. You know that's bull." I said, pacing the floor.

"You need to relax. Sit down." Cam suggested.

"You know how she gets when she's mad." I said.

Bilal chuckled. "Yeah, at worst, she's getting drunk, maybe giving a dude a lapdance." Bilal joked.

I didn't know which was worse: watching her puke or give a lapdance to another guy when she had too much to drink. I didn't want a repeat of either since I wasn't around to help her. Especially the lapdance; I knew how good she was at those. The mental pictures of her grinding on any guy the way she danced on me made me see red. I balled up my fist.

"Trevor, calm down. I was joking." Bilal said, quickly.

"It's not funny." I muttered.

"Why is she mad?" Cam asked.

I looked at Bilal. "Good question. Why would you even talk about Rocky around Noorie?"

"Don't put that on me. I told you this was a shitty idea. Now Noorie's pissed at me." Bilal exclaimed

"Now she's mad? Everything was fine before?" I asked.

Bilal shook his head sadly. "Apparently not."

"You want some advice?" Cam said after a moment of silence.

I just looked at him. Bilal shrugged. "I'll take it."

"I don't know what's going on with you and I don't think I want to know." Cam told Bilal before looking at me. "I'm gonna give you the same advice I gave Jake."

"Oh God, please don't. Whatever it was, it didn't work." I said, with a small grin.

"I told him to take it slow." Cam continued, ignoring me.

"It's been 8 years, I don't think it can go much slower than that." Bilal chuckled.

"I'm going to tell you why." Cam said. "I didn't tell Jake, but she went through something when she was 15."

"I know." I nodded, knowing exactly what he was referring to.

"She told you about my dad's business partner?" Cam asked.

I nodded again, not sure how this had anything to do with Lily right now.

"Jenna explained to me how when people go through traumatic experiences, they shut down. I know that's what Lily did. I've talked to her about getting help, but she refuses." Cam explained. I just listened intently. "Until she does, she's just stuck. I think Jenna called it emotionally stunted. She acts and responds to things like a teenager would. She makes everything about her and her feelings."

I sighed. "I see that but what am I supposed to do? She just blows up at me."

"What did you say to set her off?" Cam asked.

"I told her she was negative and jumped to the worst conclusion. That's why Rocky doesn't confide in her." I confessed, guilty.

Bilal shook his head. "That was harsh."

"I know, but she just started yelling and cursing and wouldn't even see my side of things. How can I reason with her when she's like that?" I asked.

"You can't. It's better to let her calm down. Don't try to get her to understand your point. She'll just feel like you're trying to control her or tell her what to do." Cam finished.

My phone finally rang. I saw it was Christian calling me back. I answered it, a mixture of relief, worried that something bad happen and pissed off that he was there with her and I wasn't.

"Where are y'all?" I asked him as soon as I picked up.

"We're still at the concert." I heard Lily respond in an even tone.

I instantly calmed down. She was safe.

"Ok. Do you need a ride to the hotel?" I asked, grabbing Lily's keys, getting ready to go get her.

"I'll drive y'all." I heard Christian offer in the background.

"Christian is gonna drive us. We'll be there soon." I said.

"Alright. Be safe." I replied. I wanted to tell her to wait for me. That if that idiot couldn't even answer his phone, he shouldn't be driving her home, but I was taking Cam's advice. I couldn't tell her what to do. Even if it was right, she'll rebel against it.

"I will." Lily responded before we got off the phone.

Cam and I got ready to go. On my way out, Bilal stopped me.

"I know Lily reminds you of your dad when she starts ranting and raving-"

"She's nothing like my dad." I stopped him.

"That's why I said reminds you." He pressed. "There are going to be arguments and fights, that's part of a relationship. Y'all are going to have to learn how to do that too. She needs to know the yelling and cursing is a trigger for you."

"A trigger huh? That's why you can put up with it and I can't?" I joked.

"I'm in love with a girl nicknamed Rocky. It comes with the territory." He joked back.

"Good luck with that." I said simply, not pointing out the fact he said he was still in love with Rocky. He needed to leave Noorie alone, but that was his business.

We went to back to the hotel. On the way in, I saw Christian coming out.

"Night Cam. I see you in the morning." I said, leaving him to meet Christian.

"Hey Christian!" I called to him as I jogged to catch up.

"Hey man. Lily and Jordan are upstairs in her room. You need the room number? I just tucked them in." He said, with a little smile.

"No man. You did enough. You having problems with receiving calls?" I asked him.

"Naw man, just busy. We called as soon as we saw the calls." Christian smirked.

"Nothing's changed since college. You still need to stay away from her. Even more so now, cause she's my girlfriend." I told him straightforward.

Christian just continued smiling. "No need to be jealous. We're just friends, like we all were in college." He said, patting me on the shoulder before turning to leave. "Besides, it's like she said, you're her boyfriend, not her dad."

"Asshole." I mumbled to myself as he took off.

When I got up to my room, I saw that Lily texted me that she was spending the night in Jordan's room. I texted her back goodnight and I'll see her in the morning. When I woke up, I saw that Lily didn't respond. I showered and got dress before Cam came to my room.

"You talk to Lily?" He asked.

"Through text. You?"

"Yeah, I just saw her. She's still acting childish." Cam informed me.

"So I guess I'm giving her more space." I sighed.

"Up to you. I think I got through to her."

"I'll wait for her to reach out to me." I said, putting my phone away. We went down to breakfast and grabbed some food to go before we headed back to SXSW. There was a panel on computer coding that Cam and I wanted to go to. Afterwards, I saw I had a missed call from Lily. I called her back as we walked to the next demo.

"Hey T-Rev." She said, plainly.

"Hey Lilypad. Have fun last night?" I asked.

"I did. Jordan had too much fun, but she needed it." Lily said, lightly.

"What are y'all doing?"

"I'm actually learning how to hula hoop with Jordan and Christian." She said. I tensed up at the mention of Christian. He needed the asshole poster, not me. I contemplated where he should put it; definitely not the bedroom. I didn't know why Lily said I should put it in mine. Christian should put it on his front door...

"What are y'all doing?" Lily asked me, breaking my thoughts.

"About to go to a 3D printing demo." I told her. "Still time for y'all to join us."

"Does it print food?" Lily asked.

I laughed. "Not yet. By the time we have flying cars, you should be able to print a pizza."

"I'll believe in magic then." She laughed with me.

"I already do." I said.

"I know you do." Lily commented. There was a brief moment of silence before she continued. "I'll let you go. We'll talk when y'all get back."

"Ok."

"Alright. I love you Trevor. Have fun."

"I love you too Lily."

Don't Kill the Magic

"If you want space (you could have it)

If you want change (you could have it)

Sleep on your bed (you could have it)

Bullet to my head (you could have it)

If you want love! (you could have it)

The way that you love (you could have it)

If you want time (you could have it)

I'll tell you no lie (you could have it)

Just don't kill, don't kill the magic (ohhh) (x2)

I'm not ready to give up just yet

We could stay until we both forget

So baby, don't kill, (don't kill) don't kill the magic" Don't Kill The Magic by Magic!

"Hey bro!" I said excitedly as Cam, Jenna, Carly and Amanda joined us at the table. Trevor did too, but I ignored him. I got up from the tacos I was devouring and gave Cam a hug.

"Sisters!" I gave Jenna, Carly and Amanda a group hug. "I'm so glad y'all came! It's going to be the best weekend ever!" I cheered.

Trevor eyed me suspiciously. "Are you drinking?" He asked.

"No T-Rev! This is the best aguas frescas. No alcohol. Do you wanna try it?" I offered him, flashing a fake smile. He shook his head no.

"I'll try whatever you're high on." Cam stated.

"I'm high of life. It's wonderful and amazing and rainbows and butterflies and positivity all the time." I recited, casting a glance at Trevor when I said positivity. He frowned at me.

"Are you ok Lily?" Jenna asked me.

I nodded. "Of course. What's next on the itinerary?"

Bilal and Noorie left. Maybe to fight, make up, talk, who knew? All the talking in the world would not make me forgive Bilal. Noorie was all pissed at Rocky, but Bilal broke up with Noorie, not Rocky. Whatever happened before or after that is on him. Noorie chose to get back with him; why be mad at Rocky?

In fact, Noorie should take Trevor's advice and never be mad or upset or sad. Ever! That's what I was doing now, no matter how fucked up the situation was. I wasn't going to be mad at Rocky, Bilal or Trevor. #Team positive!

Since Noorie and Bilal left, Christian suggested skipping the weird, alternative band they wanted to check out. Ian agreed, and since I was now going with the flow, we abandoned our itinerary. We walked aimlessly around, people watching and listening to random bands, DJs, and singers. Ian led us to a folk blues singer that had a crowd jamming out as he sang.

"Oh wow." Amanda said excitedly as she looked at a sign for a gamer expo.

"Oh no. Not another geek convention. Don't you get enough of that at work?" Carly said, snootily to her sister.

Amanda blushed, embarrassed.

"I love games. Let's check it out." I said, latching onto Amanda's arm.

"Why don't we go together after the show?" Jenna suggested.

"Because Carly doesn't want to go. We'll meet back up." I said.

"I'll take y'all." Trevor offered.

"No, don't be rude and abandon our guest that you invited! We'll go. Show Carly a good time. I got Amanda." I declined his offer.

"Lily, y'all can get lost-" Trevor started.

I cut him off. "T-Rev! That's negative thinking! We'll just find each other." I said, in a whimsical voice.

"Lily, be serious. There are too many people out here to be stupid." Cam lectured me.

"It's not stupid. Don't you believe in magic and fairytales and happy endings?" I laughed.

Trevor looked at Cam, then me. "We don't need to split up."

"How bout we just stick to the plan and meet at the Flatstock at 7pm? I'll take the girls to the gaming expo." Christian offered.

"Yes!" I exclaimed. I turned to Trevor. "Y'all come out here every year right? Christian can get us there like planned." I smiled brilliantly. "It's perfect!"

Trevor didn't look happy, but we split up anyway. Besides, he should take his own advice! Be positive. Jordan decided to stay and listen to music, but Cam and Jenna joined us. Christian got a phone call, and answered it as he led us to the gaming expo.

Jenna walked behind with Amanda. I eavesdropped as Jenna told Amanda not to let Carly talk down to her.

"What's wrong with you and Trevor?" Cam asked me, interrupting my noisiness.

"Nothing! We're great! Can't you tell?" I said, trying my hardest to keep the sarcasm out my voice.

"Lily, don't play games with me." Cam ordered me. I rolled my eyes.

"If you didn't wanna play games, you shouldn't have come with us to a gaming convention." I smiled again, and sped up to walk with Christian. When I caught up with him, he got off the phone.

"You good?" He asked simply, looking over at me.

"I'm great!" I emphasized with a little skip as we walked. He chuckled at me.

"Great."

We finally got to the building hosting the convention. The expo had a little of everything; from Old school arcade, board, card and fantasy games, to ping pong and video games. It was a gamer’s heaven. Amanda and I loved it! As we played and watched demos, Amanda informed me she worked at a retro game store and was learning game design from her boyfriend.

"I grew up loving fantasy board games, then computer games and video games. My boyfriend does too, but now he works making horrible apps. He hates it." Amanda said.

"They make fantasy apps now don't they? Kate Upton is in a commercial for one. Trevor's world stops every time it comes on." I commented.

Amanda snorted. "Yeah, but he doesn't."

"Well you should, after he teaches you." I told her.

We played around and took pictures. We could have stayed for hours, but we had to meet the rest of them at the art exhibit. We walked to the convention center. Trevor, Jordan, Carly and Ian were waiting for us outside the hall. While we filed in, Trevor walked beside me.

"I'm sorry for calling you negative. Can we just forget all that and have a good time?" He asked, hopefully.

I took a deep breath and relaxed my face. That's exactly what I was doing: not "ruining" the weekend. "Aren't you having a good time? I am! Look at all this art!"

"Lily-"

"I like that one." I said, pointing at a concert poster. It was some band called the Assholes. "That would look great in your living room. Or bedroom. I heard that's your thing." I gushed.

Trevor shook his head. "I'm just gonna give you space."

"Aww, you don't wanna have fun with me?" I pouted.

"I don't wanna argue. "

"How am I arguing with you?"

"By acting like that."

I glared at him. I hated that he was treating me like I was unstable or crazy. I was giving him exactly what he wanted: I was being positive.

"You don't want me to be negative so I'm trying to be positive. You need to make up your mind what you want." I said, losing the fake cheerfulness and leaving him.

I got a call from Serena finally and she told me she was done for the day. I told her where we were and she joined us. We looked at the art together with Jordan. Carly was really into the different pieces. She was an interior designer for a hotel brand. She chatted with artist and got business cards. I had no idea what hotel would have this kind of art, but I kept my opinion to myself.

I used every opportunity to bring up Ethan with Serena, hoping she would flat out ask me about our history. I wasn't going to tell her, but I wouldn't lie either. Jordan gave me a weird look, but I ignored her.

"I get it Lily." Serena stopped me.

"Get what?" I asked.

Maybe she knew...

"I was wrong about all guys sucking and the cleanse and all the bitterness. I like Ethan. He's a great guy. I'm gonna give it a real try." Serena smiled.

I nodded, feeling like a complete bitch. Why would I interfere with that? If she doesn't want to be my friend because of our history, that was fine with me. It wasn't fine if I ruined their chance.

"That's what I want to hear." I said with a smile.

We left the art exhibit and headed to the Eco Light Garden. It was truly majestic. It was LED based art installations that were interactive with the public. It was really spectacular. We walked on circular pods that lit up as we stepped on them.

The displays captured all of my attention, allowing me to feel peace. I didn't even realize Trevor was standing next to me and Serena until he said, "Look at that."

I looked where he was pointing. It was a wave wall with LED lights.

"That's so amazing." I gasped.

"Makes you wanna believe in magic and fairytales and happy endings, huh?"

I looked up at him, trying to gauge his mood. He had a playful little smile as I watched the lights dance across his face.

"Kinda." I agreed.

Trevor turned to me then, and pushed the hair out of my face.

"Lilypad-"

"Lily! There you are!" Jordan called to me. I turned around to see her heading my way. "Ian and Christian got us wristband passes to a private show tonight." She said, excitedly.

"So you want to go to that? Not the movie screening?" I asked.

"Yeah! We can watch movies at home." Jordan said.

I looked back at Trevor. "It's up to you. I'm still going to the movie." Trevor said.

"I'm gonna go to the show with Jordan." I said.

Jordan cheered and Trevor pulled me in close to him. He gave me a kiss on the lips.

"Give me a call after the show."

I nodded before pulling away. I asked Serena to join us, but she begged off, saying she had events in the morning. She walked with us to the convention center across from her hotel. I gave her a hug and wished her a goodnight.

I then joined Ian, Jordan and Christian and headed to the concert. A friend of Christian was waiting for us with Platinum Badges.

"These badges will get you in anywhere, anytime." The guy bragged.

"Wow! This is amazing. Thank you." Jordan exhaled, eating it up.

"No one man should have all that power." I sang to myself.

"The clocks ticking, I just count the hours." Christian continued.

"Stop tripping, I'm tripping off the power." I smiled.

"21st century Schizoid Man" We sang together.

We both started laughing while Jordan and Ian just stared at us.

"Kanye West? “Power”?" I questioned them. "No?"

"No!" Jordan laughed at me.

After the first concert ended, Christian told us about another new artist he worked with. After grabbing a few drinks, we went to that show afterwards. We basically concert hopped and drank. I stopped myself after a third drink, but still had a blast. We mostly attended EDM and a few hip-hop artists.

We danced along and discovered new songs and artist. We heard a song about swinging your hips like a Hula-Hoop. Jordan and I playfully argued about the correct way to do that. Or at least, I was playful. In her drunken state, she actually was getting aggressive. It was fun to egg her on. She wasn't the only one getting stupid drunk. Some girls in front of us were arguing over a wristband for the film screening.

That made me remember I was supposed to call Trevor. I pulled out my phone, only to realize it was dead.

"What time is it?" I asked Ian. He looked at his watch.

"2 am."

"Fuck, the movie should be over. I need to call Trevor." I declared.

Christian let me borrow his phone and followed me as I stepped to a quieter area to call him.

"Where are y'all?" Trevor snapped, angrily in lieu of hello.

I winced. "We're still at the concert." I said, plainly.

"Ok. Do you need a ride to the hotel?" He asked, a lot calmer.

"I'll drive y'all." Christian offered.

"Christian gonna drive us. We'll be there soon." I said.

"Alright. Be safe." He said, shortly.

"I will."

I gave Christian back his phone and we went to retrieve Jordan and Ian. There were dancing way too closely for Jordan's taste. I remembered how she scolded me for twerking on a guy after the Bitter Ball. I went and grabbed Jordan, realizing the alcohol was lowering her inhibitions.

"Ready to go?" I asked.

"No!" She protested, drunkenly.

"I am, let's go."

Christian drove us to the hotel and Jordan passed out on the ride. After I checked in for her, Christian helped me take her to her room.

Once we got her settled, Christian turned to me.

"Is your and Trevor's room close? I'll walk you?"

"That's ok." I said, remembering Trevor harsh tone over the phone. I didn't even know where our room was. I put my phone on the charger and was just going to call and let him know I would stay with Jordan.

"No, come on. There were some shady looking people hanging around. Let me walk you."

"I'm gonna stay here. Make sure she's sleep and doesn't try to leave or something."

"She and Ian seemed to be hitting it off." Christian commented as I walked him out.

"She has a boyfriend." I told him.

"Oh... didn't act like it."

"I know. Must be something in the water." I muttered, thinking about Rocky.

"It's about that season." Christian nodded as I opened the door.

"Spring?" I asked as he walked out.

"That too. It's break up season. Gets hotter, less clothes..."

I smirked. "Weather doesn't determine behavior."

"That's just a factor. Think about it. Spring: The winter killed off the old so the new can blosom." Christian added.

"You know I hate that poetic junk."

"It's not junk, it's real. Like they say, we'll be safe till St. Patrick's Day. When is that? Next Tuesday?"

I smiled. "Yeah, but John Mayer is the only one who said that. Room for Squares."

"Ah, that album got me so much action. Body is a Wonderland." He remembered with a smile.

"I listened to it every night, wishing I had a boyfriend as sweet as John Mayer... before he became a douche." I joked.

"Like they say, be careful what you wish for." Christian smiled.

"Goodnight." I said, closing the door.

"Goodnight" He said before it closed.

I texted Trevor that I made it before hopping in bed with Jordan.

I woke up the next morning to my phone ringing. It was Cam. I answered and he asked what room I was in. I told him and he told me he was heading my way.

I groaned but pulled myself out of bed. I barely put on a clean dress before there was knocking on the door. I looked over at Jordan who was fast asleep. I grabbed the hotel key and went outside.

"Hey! What's up? You're gonna wake the dead." I said, closing the door.

"I'm trying to figure out why you'd be out so late and not contact anyone." Cam said, crossing his arms.

I rolled my eyes. "I'm an adult. I can do that."

"It's not about you being an adult. It's about me and Trevor being worried about you." Cam said.

"Trevor knew where I was." I pointed out.

"He didn't know if you had a ride to the hotel or a designated driver. I don't care how mad or how much of an adult you think you are, you need to stop acting childish." He lectured me.

I shut my mouth and nodded.

"We are going to SXCreate. Are you coming?" He asked. I shook head.

"If you leave, call me and let me know." Cam finished.

I nodded again before he left.

I thought over everything while waiting for Jordan to wake up. I tried to call Trevor. I saw he texted me back from that morning, but he didn't answer my call.

When Jordan finally got up, she got dressed and we went downstairs for breakfast. I stopped myself from asking about Ian. If she wanted to talk, I would listen. All she wanted was coffee and Advil.

Christian called and offered to take us to the festival. I declined when Jordan moaned at the sun shining in the room. She was in physical pain and I had mental turmoil. The magic was gone.

Jordan was feeling better after we ate. We were back in the room, packing, when there was a knock on the door. I hopped up to answer it. I was surprised, and a little disappointed, to see Christian holding two hula-hoops.

"Look what I found..." he smiled.

Jordan laughed and we put on shoes and went outside the hotel. Jordan insisted I went first. I did, and couldn't keep the hula hoop up.

"Watch and learn." Jordan taunted. She started hula hooping. I watched her as she keep the hoop swinging on her waist.

"If it makes you feel better, the song said to swing your hips like a hula hoop, not like you're hula hooping." Christian tried to make me feel better.

"No Christian! Don't comfort her. She was wrong!" Jordan called out.

I nodded, "She's right. I was wrong."

Completely and totally wrong.

Don't Kill the Fun

Hey everyone! I'm so so sorry about the delay. I've been out of town since Thursday dealing with flooding in my mother-in-law's house. Long story short, we spent a lot of time and money cleaning, then called her insurance who set up a claim and had a mitigation service come out (I love State Farm!)

Anyway, here's Friday's post and I will post a bonus as a thank you. Most likely a POV, haven't decided who yet. Leaning towards Trevor, but we'll see.



Baby, don't kill the fun, (I won't)
This ain't over until we say it's done, (Alright)
It's your life, go ahead, do what you choose
Put me in your, your favorite mood
Oh baby, don't kill the vibe
Turn it down we gotta let it ride
I found you, crowned you, I turned you on
So you know, I got, what you want
Cause it ain't like you can take it with you when you go
It's only right to make it beautiful." Don’t Kill The Fun by Sevyn Streeter featuring Chris Brown

Jordan was surprisingly in good spirits when Trevor and I picked her up. I asked Trevor to let her sit in the front seat with me as I drove. I knew I would have felt like a third wheel and I didn't want her to feel that way. I thought I would have to cheer her up since Derek didn't come, but she was in a great mood.

We listened to my driving playlist together. It was mostly 90s and 2000s pop songs that I loved growing up and knew all the words to. Jordan jammed out with me to N'Sync, Lady Gaga, No Doubt, Usher and Maroon 5. She gave me a disgusted look when a Savage Garden song came on.

"Ohmigosh, I hate them." Jordan declared.

"What? How do you hate them?" I asked.

"Cheesy."

"Romance normally is." I countered.

Trevor laughed and Jordan disagreed. "Not that cheesy."

"Listen to the first album. The whole thing, not just the singles, then we'll talk." I said as the song ended. "You can be DJ for the rest of the drive." I said.

"Thank you!"



We arrived in Austin around 1pm. Everyone agreed to meet at Bilal's place before we went to the festival. When we got there, I was pleasantly surprised to see Noorie and Mara were included in the group.

"Who else are we waiting on?" Noorie asked me pointedly as Jordan and I joined them on the couch. Mara shot her a weird look that I caught.

I shrugged. "I don't know. Jordan is the only person I invited that came."

Sammy, Corey, and Derek all had to work, Rocky wasn't coming, and Ethan declined. That reminded me, I needed to call Serena.

"Carly is trying to talk Amanda into coming, but they'll call if they actually come." Trevor told me.

"You invited them?" I asked, narrowing my eyes at him.

"Yeah. They're your future sisters in law. Did you not want to?" Trevor smiled at me.

"It's cool, I just didn't know that you did." I replied.

Especially since he didn't invite me...

"Alright, let's get a game plan." Bilal said, pulling out his phone.

I was amazed by the amount of planning that went into the festival. I figured we would just walk around, see cool stuff, catch a couple of shows, and call it a day. I was so wrong. There were a ton of events including film screenings, interactive panels, free parties, concerts, and keynote speeches all centered at the Convention Center in the middle of downtown Austin.

We had to register for the festival which Ian was taking care of. Bilal and Trevor tried to work out the schedule. Bilal of course wanted to do more of the music aspect and Trevor wanted more interactive.

Jordan and I were no help: we really didn't care. We were just down for the new experience.

After we received our wristbands, we planned by distance and tried to keep it as fair as possible between the different events. We went to the Music Gear Expo in the convention center first. It wasn't very fun for me. I loved music, not so much the equipment required to make it. I turned to Trevor as we walked around a bit.

"So Bilal and Noorie are giving it another try." I said, nodding towards them. They just stepped into the Shred Shed together. Guitarists were welcomed to go in, plug in and play away.

"Looks like it." Trevor answered plainly. "Let's check out the John Lennon tour bus experience."

Jordan and I hopped off the bus after a look around. It was super crowded and it wasn't interesting enough to stick around. Trevor and Ian stayed inside to take a tour. We found a lounge to relax and get a drink as we checked our phones.

While Jordan called Derek, I called Serena. She texted me back that she had conferences all day but would call me later that night. I also got a text from my brother, letting me know they were coming down. I got on my phone and used the free WiFi to book them 2 rooms at the hotel we were staying at. Unfortunately, it was nowhere near SXSW, but it had plenty of rooms available.

I just confirmed the rooms when I heard a familiar voice.

"Of course you found the lounge during happy hour."

I turned around to see Christian.

I gave him a huge smile. "You're here too. What does that say about you?" I said, hopping up to give him a hug.

"It says I'm thirsty." He smiled hugging me tightly. I laughed and sat back down.

"This is Jordan. We work together. Get a drink and join us." I invited him.

He quickly agreed and left us to get a drink.

"Who is that?" Jordan asked me, looking Christian over as he left.

"That's Christian. I went to college with him." I explained, straightening out my plain, fitted t-shirt and dark denim jeans.

"He's cute." Jordan stated.

"Yeah..." I said, looking him over too. When Jordan gave me a smirk, I smiled. "I mean, he looks the same." I lied.

He did, but his look was more mature. His hair was perfectly styled. The graphic muscle tank and red cargo pants showed off his arms that were more defined than I remembered in college. His hi-top red and black Marc Jacobs sneakers completed and summed up his look: sophisticated swag. I kinda loved it.

He made his way back over to us with a drink for himself and seconds for us.

"Thanks." I said, stirring the drink he handed to me. "Looks like California is doing you good."

"Yeah, looks like it did the same for you." He quipped, looking me over.

I smiled. "Yeah, you know. When I was out there, I had a nutritionist and a trainer."

"You did?"

"Yep, my dad when I was staying with him." I joked.

"No wonder you came back to Texas." He laughed.

"One of the reasons."

"Next time you come back, you can crash with me." Christian offered.

I shook my head. "I have a cousin out there now. I need to introduce y'all. She's into the nightlife and partying too."

"What makes you think I'm into that?" Christian asked.

Trevor was the one that said he was your stereotypical music guy, but I just smiled at him.

"What song that you wrote has the highest spot on the billboard charts right now?" I asked.

"Fun all Night." Christian smiled.

"Exactly."

"So you're keeping up on me?" He grinned.

"Not really." I said, nonchalantly.

"Not really what?" Trevor asked, as he, Ian, Bilal, Noorie and Mara joined us.

"Not really into this expo. What's next?" I asked.

We then went to the next exhibit. It was a panel discussion about technology adaptation in cars. Christian and Ian bailed, telling us they would meet us for food afterwards.

I was tempted to bail too. I really didn't think I would enjoy it, but I stuck around for Trevor. It was actually really interesting to listen to and think about. Maybe we didn't have flying cars (yet!), but the advances made in transportation showed that in the future, it was a real possibility. The dashboards
in cars were like computers now and we weren't far off from having self-driving cars. The possibilities were endless.

Afterwards, I teased Trevor, telling him by the time we had flying cars, his car will be a 2015 with heat finally.

"That's fine with me. We can use your car for flying." Trevor said, throwing his arm around me as we walked to the food area.

"We're still going to be together?" I said, pretending like I was thinking it over.

"Yes, you're like my car. I would never trade you in. No matter how old and busted you get." Trevor explained. Everyone in hearing distance laughed, including Jordan. Trevor pulled away when I swung at him.

"Hey! What's your problem? That's a compliment." He chuckled, as he jogged away, ducking between our friends as I tried to attack him.

"Yeah? I'm gonna choke you as a thank you." I threatened him.

"Save the foreplay for the hotel." Ian called out to us.

"Yeah Lily. I know it's hard, keep your hands off of me." Trevor winked at me.

"You have no idea..." I said in a menacing voice.

Even if music, technology and movies weren't my thing, the SouthBites Trailer Park was right up my alley. It was food trucks set up with every type of food imaginable. We walked around, looking at the different foods and also trying to spot a place we could sit together.

Noorie found a truck that did Taiwanese style ramen noodles with no meat so that's what she chose. Bilal got dumplings from the same truck.

Nearby, there was a truck selling Kimchi fries. It smelled so good I decided I wanted to try it first. When I got my order, I sat with Noorie and Bilal to save the table we found while the rest went to find food.

I tried my fries and they were amazing. The combination of beef, onion, cheeses, kimchi, sesame seeds and a magic sauce was so delicious.

"I would have made the trip for the fries alone." I moaned, digging into my food.

"Thanks Lily." Bilal smirked and Noorie smiled.

"Not like that! I'm always glad to see you." I offered him a taste of my fries.

"I agree with you. I like these more than all y'all." Bilal joked as he chewed.

"Whatever! I don't think that. Ask Trevor. I wanted to get everyone together again. Almost would have happened if Rocky would have come." I told him.

The mood completely changed when I said Rocky. Noorie's lips turned into a grim line and she looked at me, her eyes cold as she stared at me. I tried to give Bilal a "What the fuck?"  look, but he wouldn't meet my eye. He just looked at Noorie nervously.

"That won't happen if I'm around." Noorie said, sharply.

I tilted my head to the side, confused to where the attitude was coming from, and a little put off by it.

"Why?" I challenged her.

"Noorie." Bilal started.

"No." Noorie said, turning from me to glare at Bilal. "I forgave you for breaking up with me and sleeping with her. That doesn't mean I want anything to do with her. I don't care who she's friends with."

I sat there, stunned. I didn't even know what to think. Rocky and Bilal slept together? While Noorie and Bilal were on a break? That was this year. Meaning, Rocky cheated on Brandon. I didn't want to believe it, but added with Rocky and Bilal's behavior, it made complete sense.

It also made me sick to my stomach. The fries I just ate churned violently in stomach. I swallowed, trying to calm my nerves.

"You said you forgave me." Bilal sighed.

"Forgave, not forgot." Noorie hissed back as I watched, feeling so stupid. Why didn't I put it together? Bilal broke up with Noorie and talked to Rocky after our talk...

Oh shit, is this my fault?

Thankfully, the group joined us with food. Trevor had some gourmet grilled cheese sandwich. He offered me some, but I lost my appetite.

I kept thinking about Rocky. I knew that was why she was acting so oddly. I wondered when it happened. How could she cheat on Brandon? Did he know, like Noorie? Why didn't she talk to me? We were best friends. I considered her a sister. How could she not tell me about something so big?

"Want some of my lobster roll?" Jordan asked. I shook my head.

"Lily turning down food? California really changed you." Christian smiled at me.

I smiled weakly back. "What are you eating?"

"Thai Chicken Kara’age. Wanna try?" He asked.

"Don't. Save the Japanese food for next week when we're in Japan." Trevor answered for me. That brought a real smile to my face. Japan, really anywhere far away from home, sounded great.

"You're gonna eat Japanese food?" Christian asked Trevor. "Real Japanese food?"

"I'll try it." Trevor said, unconvincingly.

"Kids meals." Christian added, while everyone, except me, Bilal and Trevor laughed.

Trevor's phone rang. It was my brother, saying they checked in at the hotel, finally found parking and were on their way to the convention center.

"Be right back. I'm gonna get them wrist bands." Trevor said.

"I'll come with you." I said quickly, standing up too. I looked over at Jordan as she chatted with Ian. "Do you wanna come too Jordan?"

"No, I'm fine. I'll see y'all in a bit." She said.

I grabbed Trevor's hand and we started the long walk to the convention center.

"Trevor, Rocky slept with Bilal. She cheated on Brandon." I said as we walked.

Trevor looked over at me. "Who told you that?" Trevor asked, after taking a deep breath.

"Noorie." I said. I stopped to look at him. He looked tired and maybe frustrated but not shocked or surprised.

"You knew?" I asked him, in disbelief.

When he just sighed, I asked again. "You knew?!?!" I accused him.

"Bilal told me." He confessed.

"Why didn't you tell me!" I exclaimed at him.

"Why should I?"

"Because that's my best friend! She been flipping out on me for weeks-"

"I told you not to worry about it." Trevor cut me off.

"You never told me why! You knew why she was acting crazy. How could you not tell me Trevor? How could you do that to me?" I cried at him.

"Nothing was done to you." Trevor said as he sped up walking.

"Trevor stop." I demanded, letting go of his hand.

He did and turned to me. "Lily, I didn't tell you because it wasn't right for me to tell."

"That is complete bullshit! As many times as I asked you about Rocky there was plenty of right times to tell me." I argued.

"It wasn't my place to tell you. It wasn't up to me whether you knew or not." Trevor clarified.

"You knew!" I yelled, losing my cool. A group of people walked by, glancing at us. Trevor waited for them to pass before continuing.

"I knew because Bilal told me. You know the first thing I thought? It was how you were gonna deal with it. You're so negative and jump to the worst conclusion. Maybe that's why Rocky didn't tell you." Trevor said harshly. I blanched at his words. "I'm sorry if you feel like its complete bullshit, but it wasn't my secret to tell." Trevor finished.

I just stood there, every single word seeping into my skin. Trevor's phone rang again and he looked down at it.

"That's your brother. Are you coming?" He asked.

I shook my head.

"Lily, don't ruin the whole weekend because-"

I didn't stick around for him to finish. I turned around and stormed off.

Don't Stop The Party

"I ain't gonna stop until I'm done (don't stop it)
I ain't gonna quit until I've won
Now baby don't you stop it, stop it(x3)
You can't stop us now
I ain't gonna stop until I'm done (don't stop it)
I ain't gonna quit until I've won
Now baby don't you stop it, stop it(x2)
Now baby don't you stop it, stop it, stop it, stop it
Even if wanna to, you can't stop us now
Don't stop the party" Don't Stop The Party by Black Eyed Peas


"I kinda see where she's coming from." Jordan told me Friday over lunch. We were taking a short, 30 minute lunch so we could leave early and get ready for Jenna's shower/bachelorette party.

"Ok..." I said, biting into my salad as I got her take on Rocky and my argument.

Rocky and I both have been cordial to each other, but neither one of us was letting it go. I told Jordan that Rocky not only was skipping the party, but she wasn't going to make the trip to Austin with us.

"In the grand scheme of things, you and Ethan weren't really together. You two are friends; Serena doesn't really need to know." Jordan commented.

"Yeah, but don't you think her reaction was a little extreme? All she had to say was bad idea. She made it seem like I had feelings for Ethan when I don't." I countered.

"You got a little extreme too."

"Only because I know something's going on with her. She keeps lashing out at me instead of talking to me." I complained.

"Shit travels downhill. I do the same thing when I'm upset: I take it out on my friends. Maybe the distance is a good thing."

"Maybe..."

"Definitely! We are gonna throw a kick ass party, then head to Austin and keep the party going! Nobody is getting in the way of that! You got it, Harris!?!" Jordan said, pointing her finger at me.

"Yes Ma'am!" I said, smiling at her authoritative tone.

"Alright! Let's move!" She continued, gathering her trash.

I nodded and quickly did the same.

At 3pm on the dot, Jordan and I left. The first thing we did was pick up the food. We ordered a spread of garlic knots, bruschetta, caprese skewers, antipasto, calamari, toasted ravioli, clams, and meatballs. For dessert, I set up the chocolate fountain with fruit.

After getting all the food in the refrigerator or the stove to stay warm, we set up the furniture and decorations. We stuck with a simple red, green and white theme. We had red and white checkered cloths with fake ivy lacing the table. Beautiful bouquets of red, white and green flowers and plants were scattered throughout the house. The chairs had white covers and cute little cushions Jordan found with scenic pictures of Italy. We set the gift baskets in the chairs.

About an hour and a half later, our work was done. We had classical music playing in the background to set the mood. I had to say, I was proud of our work. I took pictures before we hustled to the guest room to get ready.

I quickly braided my hair in a side ponytail and did a quick, 10 minute make-up routine. I wore a blue blouse and black slacks. Jordan wore a black simple dress with her hair failing straight over her shoulders.

We went downstairs and set all the food out and started making peach Bellinis when the doorbell rang. I rushed to go answer it.

The first person that arrived was Emily, Jenna's best friend. I ushered her in as she owwed and awwed over everything.

"This is perfect! She is going to love it! Much better than the strip club I'm still going to drag her to." Emily laughed as she sat her gift on the dining room table next to mine.

"That might not be necessary..." I hinted before leading her to the kitchen to get her a drink.

As I did, Jordan asked her how she knew Jenna. When Emily responded "We met in college." Jordan wrote on her a name tag "Emily- B.F.F.C" and handled it to her.

I knew the abbreviation stood for "best friend from college", but we planned to use the name tags as a way for everyone to guess what the abbreviation meant while they mingled.

The guest trickled in after Emily. Everyone was given drinks and name tags. Jenna and her sisters were the last to arrive.

"Sorry we're so late." Jenna said after I greeted her with a hug. She looked beautiful in cream linen pants and a floral embroidered flowy blouse in the same shade.

“No need to apologize, it's your party.” I smiled as I pulled back. I looked over her shoulder at her two sisters trailing her.

"Fashionably late, right?” The tallest sister greeted me, pulling me in a hug as well. She was about my height with us both wearing heels, but she was all legs. They were on display in the tight, dark floral mini dress she was wearing. I gave Jenna a smile as I hugged her.

"These are my sisters Carly and Amanda." Jenna introduced us. I gave Amanda a hug too which she shyly returned. She was shorter and carried extra weight, but she looked so pretty in a floral pattern skirt and blue top. You could definitely tell they were related, even without the coordinating outfits. They all shared similar features, dark hair and dark eyes.

"Nice to meet y'all. I love the outfits! Did y'all dress alike growing up?" I smiled as I took them to the kitchen.

"Not since we were old enough to pick out our own clothes." Carly giggled. "I thought it be fun before my sister is no longer a Rossi." She explained as I handled them all drinks.

Jenna smiled. "I will always be a Rossi at heart."

"And an Ortiz by marriage." I smiled, raising my glass. "Salute!"

"Cin Cin!"

After greeting everyone, we all made our plates and gathered in the living room. We mostly made small talk about the wedding as we ate and drank.

When we finished up, we played a guest scavenger hunt. Everyone was given a list of simple yes or no questions like "Do you have more than 2 sibling?" or "Have you been out of the country?" The object of the game was to find someone who could say yes to the question.

It was a great ice breaker: it helped me remember names and faces as well as get to know everyone better. We compared answers, shared stories and revealed what our abbreviations meant.

After that, we split into teams to play wedding catch phrase. Jordan timed us as we tried to get our team to guess the correct wedding related term like "I Do", "Here comes the bride" and "In sickness and in health." The game become less structured and more hilarious as the clues got sillier. Probably because we got drunker, but Jenna was having a great time. So far, the party was a success.

We ate dessert before Jenna started opening presents. She got an arrangement of gifts, including lingerie, spa certificates, a subscription to a wine club (according to Eliza, her married friend, she was going to need it), a digital photo frame, and Mrs. Embroidered items, like a coffeehouse mug, key chains and a robe. Since it was an Italian party and Jenna eventually wanted to go back to Italy, I got her a Roberto Cavalli swimsuit and shades. I figured even if they didn't go to Italy soon, she would need it when they moved to California.

"Lily, this is too much." Jenna gasped as she looked over the swimsuit.

"No it's not. You're family now." I smiled at her.

"Sister!!!" Carly exclaimed, giving me a hug. "I have a birthday coming up."

Everyone laughed at her then the doorbell rang. Jordan grinned.

"I'll go get it." She exclaimed.

Jenna gave me a wary look. "Who is that?

"A surprise!" I smiled.

"You said no strippers Lily." Jenna reminded me.

"I know sis. No strippers, I promise." I replied while everyone groaned.

Jordan came back with Evan. He was dressed in loose pants and a white button down looking as cute as I remembered. He was carrying a little easel, just as we discussed.

"I thought it would be cool instead of photos, to have caricatures." I lied. "This is Evan. You're going first Jenna!"

Jenna nodded and I set her up in a chair in the middle of the living room. Evan set up his prop in front of her.

"What do I do? Just pose?" Jenna asked.

"Just sit and relax. I'll take care of the rest." Evan told her.

I had to bite my lip to hold in my chuckle. When Jenna was relaxed, Jordan left the room. Evan pretended to draw while everyone looked on. The music changed from the slow, classical tune and "Don't Stop the Party" by Black Eyed Peas blared through the house.

Jenna knew what was going on before Evan moved from behind the easel.

"You said no strippers Lily!" Jenna cried out, looking like she didn't know where to look: me or Evan. Jordan returned with the bachelorette swag I bought from the sex store.

"It's not strippers." I proclaimed, placing a penis covered veil on her head and a light up penis lei around her neck "He's a dancer that happens to take off his clothes." I corrected her.

I grinned as Evan ripped off his shirt and the girls cheered. That decided it: Jenna's eyes were glued to him. I moved away to let her enjoy her dance.

Jordan and I distributed necklaces that featured penis shaped whistles, party beads, feather boas, and tiaras. The new party theme was pink and penises and everyone was loving it. I left with Jordan to get the penis shaped shot glasses and filled them with whipped cream vodka.

 When we returned to the living room, Evan was down to red, tight short shorts (my request- No g-strings out of respect for my brother!) and had propped himself up on his hands on the floor, pelvis on Jenna's lap, grinding like it was his job. Because it was. It was amazing!

Jenna was flushed, but she definitely wasn't complaining when it was over. Her sister Carly immediately took her place in the chair when Jenna got up.

"Tell your brother that I reprimanded you severely for that." Jenna said after I handed her a shot.

I grinned. "Will do sis!"

Most of the girls got lap dances. I passed since I indulged at the strip club and started a little clean up of the kitchen. Evan was outstanding and earned every dollar we tipped him. After he left, the party winded down. The last thing we did was pass around the guest book to write advice for a good marriage. I laughed as I read Carly's comment:

Marry the stripper!

We probably should have signed the book before the alcohol. I read over the comments. "Don't go to bed mad" "Continue to date" "the grass is greener where you water it."

 Jordan wrote in bold, capital print: COMPROMISE. It was all good advice but I really had none to give. What did I know about making a long term relationship last? Urgh.

I just wrote what I hoped was true: "love conquers all". I signed my name before passing it on.

The girls filed out while I started cleaning up. Jenna and her sisters were waiting for my brother to come pick them up. Jenna offered to help, but I declined. Instead, Jordan helped her organized her gifts, throw away any gift wrap, tissue paper and trash, and move them to the front door. When her sister left to get her gifts together, Amanda came to help me clean the kitchen. Carly stayed in the den, uploading pictures on her Instagram.

I was starting the dishwasher when I heard Cam arrive. They began to load the gifts in the car. I stayed in the living room removing the decorations. I was pleasantly surprised to see Trevor when he joined me.

"Hey, what are you doing here?" I said, gathering all the scattered trash and party decor.

"Making sure you get home safely." Trevor said, grabbing a bag to help me. He picked up a penis necklace and held it up to me with a grin.

"Yours?" He asked.

"Mine!" Carly exclaimed, grabbing the necklace from him.

"Carly, this is-" I started.

"Trevor. We've met." She said with a little smile. I narrowed my eyes at them before continuing to clean. I just met her, when did they meet?

I just nodded and finished gathering all the trash. Trevor and I took it all out together.

I said goodbye to Cam, Jenna and her sisters before we went back in the house. Jordan left too. I thanked her for her help and told her to call when she and Derek left for Austin.

"Are you ready?" Trevor asked me.

I shook my head. "No, I gotta wait for the dishes to finish so I can put them up."

"Leave 'em." Trevor told me.

"I don't wanna give Rocky another reason to flip out on me." I replied.

Trevor came and gave me a hug. "Wanna do something while we wait?" Trevor asked, suggestively.

"Sure... break down the chocolate fountain." I smiled.

"You're no fun." Trevor grumbled.

"Party's over!"



We went to my place after we had everything put away. I was so exhausted from work and the party, I went straight to bed. My alarm woke me up and I left Trevor in bed to pack for Austin. I threw a few outfits in a bag before throwing it down the stairs. I went to my bathroom and brushed my teeth and washed my face. I was getting dressed when the door opened.

"Trevor!" I exclaimed, quickly pulling my jeans over my hips. "Don't you knock!"

"I've seen it all before." Trevor said.

"It's called privacy!" I exclaimed.

He shrugged. "Telephone..." He said, handing me my phone.

I grabbed it from him and answered.

"Lily, can I ride with you and Trevor today?" Jordan asked me.

"Of course. Derek too?"

"He's not coming. Something came up at the hospital." She said, disappointed.

"Aww, I'm sorry Jordan-"

"It's ok. No, it's great. We had a great party, now we're gonna have fun partying in Austin!"

I smiled. "Alright Jordan." I hung up and smiled. I was definitely going to show her a good time. She deserved it. She was right: No-one was going to get in the way of that...

...but I probably jinxed myself when I told Trevor the party was over.