Nobody's Business

"You'll always be the one that I wanna come home to
Boy let me love you and show you how special you are
I wanna be your baby, you'll always be my baby
Tell me what you want now
Let's sing it to the world
Baby give me time
I'm a be your girl
I wanna make you mine
And it ain't nobody's business
It ain't nobody's business(x3)
Just mine, and my baby" Nobody's Business by Rihanna ft Chris Brown

I woke up to a darken room, with Trevor's hands caressing my waist and his mouth tasting the sensitive skin of my neck.

"Trevor... What time is it?" I groaned, trying to angle my face so less of my neck was exposed to his lips and tongue.

"Does it matter? I'm fully awake now."

I could tell by his voice he was smiling.

"Well, I'm not." I said, turning away from him.

He spooned me, his hands finding my breasts and his lips returning to my neck. I moaned when he sucked hard.

"C'mon. You're supposed to be living it up. You can't do that sleeping..." he said, convincingly.
Honestly, I would agree to anything he said while he kissed my neck. He knew it was one of my spots. Sneaky bastard.

I pulled away and turned to face him again. I couldn't see him the dark, so I traced my fingers over his face. When I made my way up the sides of his face, I pulled him in for a kiss.

The kiss was gentle at first. I enjoyed the feel of his lips against mine, before I kissed him hungrily, parting my lips on his. He parted his lips too and deepened the kiss.

God, I could literally kiss him all day. I heard the expression of someone feeling like home; kissing Trevor was the closest I had to that feeling. I felt so much love and comfortable; it was the best feeling in the world.

While I relished in our kiss, Trevor's hand fondled my breasts underneath my cami. He broke our kiss to take it off of me. His lips found mine as he worked on removing my bra next.

Once that was off, he kissed his way down my neck and chest. He lavished my breasts with kisses when he reached them. When he took my nipple in his mouth, heat radiated throughout my body particularly between my legs.

Trevor began to concentrate between my legs next. He made quick work of removing my shorts and rubbed my clitoris through my thong. I moaned impatiently, needing skin to skin contact. He responded by kissing me. After he pulled away, he brought his fingers to my lips.

He rubbed the opening of my mouth, until I spread my lips. He slid two fingers in my mouth and I sucked on them, running my tongue around them seductively. Trevor groaned and removed my thong. I cried out in relief when he finally pressed the fingers he had in my mouth against my clitoris.

My relief was short lived- He abruptly pulled away and turned on the light. My protest died on my lips when my eyes adjusted to the light and focused on his face.  He stared between my legs with an intense look in his face.

He exhaled sharply, rubbing the bare skin between my legs.  That's when I realize what it was: he had never seen me waxed before. Apparently, he liked it. He began stroking me as his eyes roamed up my body.

 "Jesus, you're so beautiful." He breathed when his eyes met mine. His blue eyes were darkened with lust as he leaned in to kiss me.

I loved when he looked at me like that: it made me feel so confident and sexy. It was also a huge turn on, which was why I was coming in no time.

Before I could recover, he buried his mouth between my legs as well. I screamed out, the pleasure almost painful as he ate me out to another orgasm. I pulled away from him before he could do anything else.

"Are you ok?" He asked, concerned, pulling away.

"Yea...no...." I panted. "Give me a second."

He lay down beside me as I caught my breath. After I did, I turned to him.

"So... you like me waxed?" I asked, curiously.

"Yeah, it's sexy." Trevor grinned at me.

“Why didn’t you tell me you preferred it?”

“”The last time I told a girl that, she told me she preferred shaved balls.”

I giggled breathlessly. “Sammy?”

He studied me for a moment, before he nodded.

“She told me that before.” I informed him.

“Y’all talk about me… like that?” He asked

“Not really. She talks...A lot.” I said, with a little smile. “Is there something I should know?”

“Is there something you want to know?” Trevor smiled back.

I shook my head. “I just want to know what you prefer.”

“You. Right now. On top.”

I smiled and obliged him, straddling his lap.



We fell back asleep and I woke up to my phone ringing. It was Bianca and I answered it, reluctantly.

"Buenos días." Bianca said, cheerfully.

"Is it really morning time? Why are you awake?" I grumbled.

"Everyone is up over here. Are you coming over?" Bianca asked.

"Yeah, I'm up. I'll call when we're on the way." I told her.

After I called Jordan and Corey, I got Trevor up. He moaned and complained, but I told him his own line about living it up and not sleeping our vacation away. He got up after that.

I got dressed in my new swimsuit and cover up and packed a change of clothes in a bag.

“How did you go from short shorts to no shorts?” Trevor asked me as we walked to the hotel lobby for breakfast. His voice was teasing, but his eyes darkening as he looked me over.

I grinned. “It’s a cover up... I have shorts in my bag.” I assured him.

"Covering up a bikini?" He asked.

"No, it's a one piece you like so much." I replied.

"Thank God."

The brunch buffet was crowded, but we filled up on breakfast foods. I made a few trips to the buffet line and stuffed myself. I had no problem eating in front of Trevor, Jordan or Corey. I knew I was on a diet, but I was starving. I blamed the weed and figured since we were hanging on the beach today, I would work it off.

Sammy’s flight was coming late afternoon, so Corey was going to hang with us before heading to the airport to meet her.

We arrived at Christian’s house and everyone was in various state of swimwear. We joined everyone who was ready on the patio waiting.

I got to chat with Donovan's son since he wasn't attached to his Dad's tablet like the night before.

"Ohmigod, he looks just like you!" I gushed to Donovan.

"I would hope so." Donovan smiled.

"You know they get half of their genes from the mom right? Even though it doesn't look like it." I smiled back.

"My mom said babies always come out looking like whoever you were mad at during the pregnancy." Jennifer, his wife, smiled.

"What'd you do to piss her off?" Trevor joked.

"Knocked her up." Donovan joked back.

We all laughed. When everyone was ready, we walked to the beach. Christian led the way after introducing everyone to Noelle. She was just as gorgeous as her pictures with her hair swept up in a bun, and a glamorous long sheer white cover-up over her simple blue bikini. I felt frumpy in my little tank cover up.

We all boarded taxi boats and rode around El Arco de Cabo San Lucas. The boats had glass bottoms and it was so cool watching the sea meet the ocean. The rock formations were majestic against the crystal clear blue water. I snapped a ton of pictures and selfies.

After a little struggle to get off the boat with all our things without getting everything wet, we found a spot to set up on the beach. I removed my cover up.

"What happened to the back of your swimsuit?" Trevor asked me, looking me over as he rubbed sunblock over my back

"It's a monokini." I grinned.

"Huh?" He asked, as I returned the favor of rubbing sun block on him.

"A one piece bikini." I explained, putting the sunblock away.

"You need to put back on the cover up." He joked, smiling.

"Make me." I challenged, with a smile before running off toward the water. Trevor chased after me.

We had a great time on the beach. We played in the sea and borrowed snorkeling goggles to look at the marine life. Some of the guys went surfing on the Pacific ocean side of the beach, but Trevor, Corey and I took turns paddle boarding. 1pm came too soon, and we boarded the taxi boat an hour or so after Corey left to meet Sammy at the airport. By the time we headed back to the beach house to change, Corey and Sammy were on their way to meet us.

I had my hair up in hot curlers, and was finishing my make-up when Bianca charged into her room.

"I have a dress for you!" She informed me, pulling out an outfit from the closet. The dress was a beautiful cerulean blue, with a scooped neckline. It was fitted and fell above my knees. It was simple and pretty, but a little too fitted for my taste.

"It's beautiful, but I can't wear this. I gained weight- my measurements are not the same." I told Bianca.

She waved me away. "That's the way it's supposed to fit. I'm not done."

She pulled out a long, sleeveless pale beige vest. It had an elegantly draped silhouette and shark tail hem, but the open knit material kept it casual. I absolutely loved it! It was perfect for dinner and whatever else we had planned for the evening. And I could actually eat without looking like I would spill out of my dress.

"I got you these to go with it." Bianca said, pulling out floral wedges. While I slipped them on, Jordan came out the shower.

"You look so cute!" She exclaimed.

"Thank you." Bianca said before heading to the shower. I smiled and finished my hair and make-up before giving Jordan the vanity to finish.

I walked out to the living room to see who else was ready. Most of the guys were ready first and pre-gaming on shots. I still wasn't drinking, but Christian offered me a blunt. We went outside to share it while Trevor took shots with the guys. They were already laughing and acting rowdy and I knew it was going to be a helluva night.

Christian turned on some music he was working on as we smoked.

"Who is this for?" I asked, bouncing to the beat.

"I don't know yet. Maybe Tyga or Chris Brown. It has that ratchet-California vibe they're going for."

I giggled. He said Tyga or Chris Brown so nonchalantly, it was surreal.

"California is not ratchet." I commented.

"Not where you're from."

"Not anywhere."

"How would you know that from your castle on a hill?" Christian said, raising an eyebrow at me.

"I did not live in castle" I laughed.

"Close enough. Look at you." Christian said, motioning over my body.

 "What?" I said, looking myself over.

"You should be in a castle. You look incredible" he said.

"This is all Bianca. She's trying to impress your model girlfriend." I smiled.

"I'm impressed." Christian complimented me.

"Thank you. Pass it along to Noelle." I grinned, pleased.

"Look who made it." Trevor said, joining us on the patio.

"Sammy!" I declared, standing up to give her a hug. She looked so beautiful in a red mini dress with big white polka dots. Now only if she would smile...must have been a long flight.

"Hey Lily." She said, hugging me back. She stared at Christian, so I quickly introduced them.

"I remember. Nice house." Sammy said, shortly. "Are we leaving soon?" She asked me.

"Let's go see if everyone is ready." I said, weaving my arm through hers.

Everyone was, so we headed out for dinner. We went to a restaurant in downtown Cabo called Mi Casa. I broke my no drinking rule and ordered a margarita. It was so strong but delicious. Between the marijuana, alcohol and lack of food in my system, I was faded. Buzzed. High. 2 on. Whatever you wanted to call it, I was it.

I was having so much fun though. Everything I tried was delicious. I seriously think I ate off of everyone's plate.

"I think you ate less when you were fat." J-Mike pointed out to me.

"Shut up J-Mike." Trevor said sharply while I just grinned at J-Mike.

"Thank you." I said, taking it as a compliment, before I gasped, dramatically."Ohmygod J-Mike, is that your wife?!?" I exclaimed, pointing to a little old lady. Everyone turned and looked and started bursting out in laughter.

"I liked you better when you were fat." He mumbled.

"I never liked you at all, so we're good." I smiled.

After dinner, we walked through the downtown arts district. There were murals and little shops that people wandered around while drinking.. It was nice, but we passed through it on our way to a club. Christian bypassed the line like a boss and got us all in. I immediately grabbed Jordan and Sammy and we hit the dance floor. I tried to drag Bianca too, but she was cuddled up with Noelle.

We danced together and had a great time. We eventually stopped for a drink break and we made our way through the crowd to the bar. After securing drinks, we joined Trevor, Corey, Bilal, Donovan, Justin, Jennifer, Casey, Jamie and Ian at a table.

When I sat next to Trevor, He immediately started groping me.

"You must be drunk." I smiled, while continuing to let him feel me up.

"Why do you think that?" He said, with an adorable slur. He was so fucking cute.

"’Cause you get touchy feely or you smash mirrors when you’re drunk." I giggled.

"Still?" Donovan exclaimed. "Every time he got drunk we had to wait and see what personality was going to come out."

"What?!? I don't remember this." I shrieked.

"You only saw Trevor. That's the happy drunk. You don't want to meet Alan." Justin explained.

"Alan? Your middle name?" I said, looking at Trevor. He just brushed  his lips against my neck.
I shuddered in his arms.

"I don't know what they’re talking about." He said, before sucking on my neck.

"You don't know how many holes we patched up-" Donovan laughed.
I honestly couldn't focus on what he was saying. Trevor mouth was working on my neck and sending tingles down my body straight to between my thighs. I pressed them together when I felt myself getting wet.

"Ew, get a room!" Jordan snapped me out of my trance. I laughed embarrassed, but Trevor just gave me a sexy grin.

At the end of the night, we went our separate ways. Majority of everyone was going back to the house, including Jordan. Sammy, Trevor, Corey and I headed back the hotel. Trevor and I were both fully awake and eager to finish what we started in the club.

The next morning, I set my alarm so we could get up, eat and join everyone at Wild Canyon Adventures. They offered ATV and zip-lining tours, bungee jumping, a giant swing, camel tours, and an animal sanctuary. Donovan and Justin chose the ATV tour because of their kids. Corey was terrified of heights, so he and Sammy chose ATV as well. A few of the girls, including Brooke, wore flip flops or sandals and had no chose but to do the camel tours. Everyone else went for the ziplining.

The tour included 8 different ziplines. On my first zipline ever, I closed my eyes the entire way down. It was terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. As soon as my feet touched the ground, I wanted the rush again. We went to the next zipline and it was a double. I kept my eyes open and laughed with excitement as Trevor and I went down together. We hiked through the canyon and rode all the ziplines. There were single ones, in pairs, and in a group of 4 for one. Trevor and I went down with Bilal and Jordan. We even went down one backwards. It was the highlight of my trip for me. I had a blast.

Afterwards, as we waited for everyone to finish up, we checked out the animal sanctuary. Sammy found me off by myself, checking out the birds.

"Hey, how we're the ATVs?" I asked her.

"It was great. Our guide was awesome. How was ziplining?"

"A work out, hiking to each station, but so worth it." I smiled.

"I wanted to talk to you. About what Donovan said." Sammy started.

"What did he say? Really, just take everything anyone says with a grain a salt. They're all big jokers." I informed her.

"No, last night. About Trevor and his drinking and anger." She prompted me.

I just stared at her.

"That doesn't bother you?" She questioned.

"No! It shouldn't bother you either." I told her, walking away, but she followed me.

"Lily, maybe because you haven't seen it-"

"I don't have to see it. I know Trevor. You need to leave this alone Sammy. It's none of your business." I snapped, irritated.

 Her trying to give me advice or being "bothered" about Trevor was pissing me off. I was already tried, hungry and hot- it was a dangerous combination.

"Fine." She said, throwing up her hands and walking away.

When everyone met back up, Christian surprised us with our next activity. A boat ride. And by boat, it was a fucking yacht. Rented, but a fucking yacht. I was so excited!

After going to the hotel, showering and changing, we went to Christian’s house and tailed him out in taxi's to the docking station. We boarded the huge yacht and set sail. Seeing the arches from a yacht was a totally different experience, so I took a ton of pictures. We all grouped up and had a member of the staff take a picture of us.

There was a spread of food, so we ate, drank champagne and met some of Christian's and Noelle's friends from California. I was surprised by how laidback they all were. I guess I imagined models, heiress and music people to be stuck up, but they weren't: At least not on vacation.

Once we stopped in the water, Christian broke out the jet skis, and everyone took turns or hopped in for a swim.

I got off the jet ski with Trevor to let Jordan ride with him and got back on the boat. I saw Bilal sitting, playing on his phone.

"Really? You're too cool to be exciting about a yacht?" I teased him.

"Not at all. I'm just not a strong enough swimmer to be excited about it."

"Get a life jacket."

"I'm too cool for those."

I laughed at him.

"Have you seen the weather in Texas?"

"Nope, haven't thought about going home once." I sighed.

"There's really bad flooding, especially in the Houston area." Bilal told me.

"Mmhmm." I said, noncommittal. Rocky's family was from Houston.

"C'mon Lily." He said, turning to face me.

"What? I haven't heard anything. No news is good news right? I haven't been stalking the weather channel."

"I got an alert on my flight to Austin. It might be delayed or cancelled. That's how I know. I text my boss to let him now I might have to hang in Dallas til the weather clears."

"Dallas? Really? Bilal, she doesn't even want to be in the same zip code as you."

He winced, and I felt bad. "I didn't mean it like that."

"Yes you did. It's ok. I get it. She hates me."

"She doesn't hate you..." I lied. "She just wants to make things work with Brandon."

"I thought she was giving back the ring." Bilal said, surprised.

"Who told you that?" I furrowed my eyebrows.

"You, stoner." He shook his head.

"Oh, well don't listen to me." I lied again.

"I'm not going to do anything. I just want her to be happy." Bilal said, standing walking to grab a drink

I took a deep breath. After my conversation with Sammy, I realized I needed to stay out of Rocky's relationship. Sammy and her "concerns" drove me crazy. If I was only a fraction as annoying as Sammy was to me, I owed Rocky a big apology.

That being said, I couldn't not give her a heads up if Bilal was going to be in town. I contemplated as I found my bag stowed away.

"Lily, I got some more lyrics for you to guess." Christian called. He was sitting next to the DJ we saw perform at SXSW, with his arm around Noelle.

"One second." I smiled at them. pulled out my phone. I composed the text, and read it over.

Short, concise, impertinent information without seeming like I was to get in her business: Perfect. I sent it and put my phone away.

I sat beside Sammy and put my arm around her. I gave her a big smile and she returned it.

"Let's hear those lyrics."


***Next week I'm doing different POVs. I'm working on Rocky's and Trevor's. Was there anyone else y'all wanted to read? If not, the third post will be Lily's POV. Have a great weekend everyone!***

Time of Our Lives

"Everybody going through something
I said, everybody going through something
So you might as well you roll it up
Pour it up, drink it up, throw it up tonight
This for anybody going through tough times
Believe me, been there, done that
But everyday above ground is a great day, remember that
I knew my rent was gon' be late about a week ago
I worked my ass off, but I still can't pay it though
But I just got just enough
To get up in this club
Have me a good time, before my time is up
Hey, let's get it now
Ooh I want the time of my life
Oh baby
Ooh give me the time of my life
Let's get it now" Time of Our Lives by Pitbull ft Neyo

"Nothing's going to happen, because I won't step foot outside the resort. If anything happens at the hotel, I'll call you, then dad, then the police." I lied over the phone as I sat waiting to board our flight to Mexico.

Trevor laughed and Jordan shook her head at me as they eavesdropped.

"I'm serious Lily. It's not as safe as when we used to go." Cam repeated.

"I know. Can you do me a favor?"

"It depends."

"Tell dad for me?" I implored him.

"Tell him what? You quit your job or that you're going to Mexico?"

"One or the other. Probably Mexico. I have a feeling he has a way to look at my Facebook."

"You're paranoid. Dad doesn't have Facebook."

"That's what you think."

"Ok Lily. Have fun and be safe."

"Will do!" I promised before I sighed and got off the phone.

"You didn't tell your dad we are going to Mexico?" Trevor asked.

"Nope. He doesn't know that I quit either. He would have lectured me and I don't want to hear it. I'm gonna have fun and relax before I have to return to the real world. Then I'll stress." I explained to Trevor.

"Sounds good to me." Trevor smiled at me.

Corey joined us right before the plane was boarding. Sammy had to join us on Saturday. She and the other managers split the days up so she would be able to spend a couple days with us. She told us one of the other guys was pissed, but she was still coming.

Jordan and I sat together on the plane while Trevor and Corey sat a few rows behind us.

When we arrived in Mexico, the first thing we did was check into the hotel. Jordan and I wanted to get changed before the welcoming party at Christian’s place.

Bianca arrived in Mexico an hour before us, so she text me that she was waiting at the hotel lobby for us. As Trevor, Jordan and Corey got in line to check-in, I made my way through the lobby to find her. I walked around a few times before I called her on my phone.

"Hola!" She addressed me over the phone.

"Hola, donde está?"

"Que?"

I laughed. "Where are you?"

"The pool. Are y'all here?" She asked.

"Yes, meet me at the front desk."

I rejoined Trevor. He was next in line.

"Where's Bianca?"

"On her way."

Not even a minute later, I saw Bianca headed our way. She had a huge smile on her face as she greeted us all. I pulled her in for a hug and Trevor did the same.

After checking out our room, I left Trevor and went with Bianca over to Jordan's room to get ready for dinner. I kept my look causal but cute. I wanted everyone to see how new and improved I was, without looking like I was trying too hard. I looked myself over in the mirror, critically.

I wasn't down to my smallest size like when I was in California, but I was definitely smaller than I ever was at Baylor. My legs were the most toned part of my body; I showed them off in floral blue shorts. My arms looked ok, but not defined in a swing white cami. I was hoping majority of the attention would be on the hint of cleavage the top exposed.

I straightened my long hair so that it fell in layers down my back. I clipped in the aqua blue extensions before working on my make up. I did my lashes, a natural smokey eye, and nude lip gloss. Satisfied, I joined Bianca and Jordan who were waiting for me.

Jordan looked great in an orange fitted sundress, and Bianca looked casual in jeans and a top.

"I'm saving my designs for when Noelle is here." Bianca told me when I questioned her clothing options as we walked to my room.

"She's not going to be here?" I asked.

"Not tonight. She gets in early tomorrow." Bianca said.

Corey and Trevor were waiting for us when we arrived back to the room. Trevor eyed me up and down slowly, a grin spreading across his face.

"Wow." He said, approvingly, as he stood to stand beside me. "You look amazing."

I frowned, playfully. "Just amazing?"

"Amazingly gorgeous." He corrected.

"Better." I smiled, before planting a long kiss on his lips.

"Are they always like this?" Bianca asked in disgust.

"Always." Corey answered.

"Worse." Jordan said at the same time. I laughed.

"Let's go!"


We got a taxi van outside the hotel and I gave the address to the driver in Spanish. After about 20 minutes, we pulled up to a beautiful Villa on the beach.

"Ohmygod!" Jordan breathed, stunned.

"So this is how the other half lives?" I said with a smile.

"What are you talking about? Your dad's house is bigger." Bianca commented.

"That's his house. Christian doesn't live here permanently. At least I don't think so..." I said, thoughtfully.

We rang the doorbell and Christian answered, letting us in. He had been in Cabo for a few days, so he was already tanned and looked relaxed in linen shorts and fitted t-shirt.

"No, it's my vacation house. It supposed to be an investment. If I rented it out it would pay for itself but I haven't yet." Christan explained as he took us on a tour and I asked if he lived here. The villa was stunning. 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms and 2 living spaces filled with lavish furniture and artistic pieces. It was definitely something to look at, but I didn't see how anyone could live in a house like that. It was so fancy and proper, almost sterile. I would never feel comfortable living there. I was afraid to touch or sit on anything.

"Why not?" Corey asked him about renting out the villa.

"I normally let my friends borrow it for free. Almost everyone is here. We're all outside. Go make a plate and join us." Christian instructed us, leading us to the kitchen.

We did just that. There was so much food laid out in the kitchen. It was a seafood boil, and there was a huge pot filed with crab legs, shrimp, scallops, potatoes and corn. As if that wasn't enough, there was stuffed crab, seafood paella with muscles, asparagus in rosemary butter, Caesar salad, and cheddar garlic biscuits. On the island in the kicthen, there was a dessert section with fruit, brownies, and cookies.

"Wow, how many people are supposed to be here?" Jordan asked, grabbing a platter to start making her plate.

"Not this many." Trevor held up a platter to me. "How many plates are you going to need Lily?" He teased me.

I blushed and grabbed one from him. I knew he was kidding, but I was too self-conscious to joke. In college, I hated eating in front of everyone, especially in front of the girls Trevor dated. I felt like the fat kid even after I lost weight. I made it a point to have small portions and always leave food on my plate so I didn't look like I pigged out.  Then I would pig out later in my room. Silly, I know, but a small part of me still felt that way.

"Let's share. I'll get the boil, you get everything else." I suggested.

"I'm not a seafood boil fan." Trevor said.

"You can eat the potatoes, corn and shrimp." I told him, while filling our plate.

"Ok." He shrugged.

We joined everyone outside. The outside living area was much more to my liking. A large, wooden table with benches was on a covered patio. The additional chairs and couches were wicker furniture with blue cushions. It fit the tropical landscape surrounding the pool and jacuzzi. The view and smell of the ocean put me at ease.

I smiled as we came out to choruses of "Trevor" and "Lily" we put our plates down on the table before making the rounds.

I waved to Bilal before giving Donovan and Justin a hug. They both graduated from Baylor with us and Donovan was Bilal's and Trevor's roommate. They introduced me to their wives and kids.

"Lily!" I turned around to see Angela, a former roommate of Rocky's.

"Hi Angela!" I said, giving her a hug too.

"How nice is Christian's place?" She gushed.

"It's incredible." I agreed.

"When's Rocky coming in?" Angela asked.

"She's not." I answered, simply.

"Why not?" She turned to Bilal. "Are y'all still avoiding each other?"

"We're ok. She's probably just busy planning her wedding." Bilal said causally. Too casually.

Before she could ask any more questions, I smiled at Ian and Johnny.

"Hey Johnny, Ian!" I said, excitedly, even though I saw them every time I went to Austin before they started touring with Black Reign.

"Lily! Ohmygod, it's been forever!!!" Ian said, mockingly in a high pitched, girly voice.

"Not long enough Ian." I smirked at him.

He clutched his heart like he was wounded from my words.

"Is Black Reign still on tour?" I asked after giving them both a hug.

"Always on tour. We have 4 days off before we start back up again." Johnny answered.

"You sound tired. I thought that's what musicians live for: touring, tearing up hotel rooms, groupies."

"Common misconception. It's a funky tour bus for days and when you're in a city long enough to warrant a hotel, all you wanna do is shower and sleep." Ian answered.

When Christian joined us, Johnny smiled. "Yep, we should have got into producing. Then we'd have long vacations, beach houses and super model girlfriends."

"She's not a model, she's a stylist." Christian corrected him.

"Yeah, but she has super model friends that are coming, right? All the girls here are coupled up." Johnny complained.

"She's coming with some friends. Lindsay and Diana are single. Isn't your cousin single too?" Christian asked me.

"Cousin?" Ian perked up.

"Fuck no. Don't even think about it!" I warned Ian.

"I'm trying to think about it... does she look like you?" Ian grinned lecherously.

"I will cut your dick off."

Christian laughed. "Brooke is coming with some of her friends. Do you remember her?"

I made a sound of disgust at the mention of Trevor's ex-fling.

"What was that Lily?" Christian smiled at me.

"Nothing."

"Sounded kinda like a growl..." Johnny pressed.

"Yeah, from hunger. I need to eat. Talk to y'all later." I made my way back over to Corey, Jordan and Bianca.

Trevor was still talking and laughing with Bilal, Justin, and Donovan. I sat down and began cracking crab legs while I filled Corey, Jordan and Bianca in on who was who.

Probably because I didn't want to see her the most, Brooke showed up at little after I found out she was coming. She looked completely the same, blond hair and a too small dress barely containing her boobs. She had two friends with her in bodycon dresses and excessive jewelry. They looked like they were going to a nightclub, not a dinner.

Brooke latched on to Christian and was laughing at something he said as he led her and her friends around the patio. They stopped by Trevor's group.

"I'll be right back." I said, standing up.

"Where are you going?" Jordan asked.

"I need a drink. Do you need anything?"

"No... there's champagne at the bar."

"No, I'm not drinking. I'm gonna grab some water." I explained.

I went to the kitchen and grabbed a bottle of water. By the time I finished half the bottle, my insecurities were gone. I needed to chill out. I've been down this road with Trevor before. Why stress and take away from our vacation when I knew Trevor loved and wanted me?

"You ok in here?" Christian asked, coming in from outside.

"Yeah, just needed some water." I said, shaking the bottle.

"They should have put that outside." He said, shaking his head.

"I'll take it. No need to fire anyone." I said, lightly.

"I got it." He said, grabbing the cooler. "I'm glad y'all came. I thought for a second Trevor wasn't going to let y'all come."

I thought the same thing, but I shrugged it off. "You know, feelings aren't really rationale. He's cool now; seeing your model girlfriend helped." I said, walking back outside.

"She's not a model." He followed behind me with the cooler.

"Close enough." I smiled, before joining Trevor at our table. He already devoured the crab I painstakingly removed from the legs.

"What happened to I don't like seafood boils?" I asked, narrowing my eyes at him.

"Looks like I don't like all the work that goes along with it." He grinned.

I shook my head and started cracking more legs. Jordan and Corey decided it would be funny to bring me another plate so I could crack those as well.

"I hate y'all." I told them, while they laughed at me. Trevor graciously fed me bites of food while I worked on the crab.

"Are you two together?" Brooke asked me and Trevor.

"Yeah, since January." Trevor responded while I looked at her, suspiciously. It was completely obvious we were. What was up with the stupid question?

"Good for y'all. I thought so, but I couldn't tell on Facebook. They both say single." Brooke pointed out. The doorbell rang again and Christian went to answer it.

"It's not serious enough for Facebook." I said with a taunting smile.

"Serious enough for you to move in, but not for Facebook?" Trevor questioned me, jokingly.

"Exactly." I nodded.

"Y'all are moving in together?" Bianca exclaimed.

I nodded.

"Who's moving in together? It doesn't matter! Don't do it!" We looked up to see J-Mike, making a scene as usual. As much as things changed, they pretty much stayed the same. J-Mike would always be loud, crass and unapologetic about it, no matter how much time passed. I didn't know whether to admire it or despise it.

"J-Mike!!!" Everyone cheered out. He ate up the attention, moving from person to person, asking if they wanted handshakes, hugs or high fives.

When he got to Bianca, she held up her hand for a high five. He high fived her, gripping her hand.

"Who are you?" He asked, flirtatiously.

"My cousin. Let go." I told him.

"Lily." He said, letting go of her hand and grabbing my arm. He pulled me up to my feet before hugging me.

"I want a handshake." I protested with a smile. "We do hugs." He said, pulling me tight to his body. When his hands strayed to my ass, I jerked out his arms.

"Asshole." I hissed, while everyone laughed, including Trevor.

"Hey, don't have it out there if I can't touch it. My hands have a mind of their own." J-Mike said.

Trevor stood up. "She's off limits. Tell your hands to watch it before I cut them off." He said, before giving J-Mike a handshake hug combo.

"Ohhhh, you must be hitting it." J-Mike exclaimed. I looked at Trevor, expectantly.

"I'm dating it-" he started and I crossed my arms, raising my eyebrow at him. Everyone laughed as he cleaned his words up. "I'm dating her. Lily's my future live in girlfriend. So cool it."

"Called it. You owe me $50." J-Mike said, before moving on.

"You bet against us?" I asked, surprised.

"In college. When I was young and dumb remember?"

"You're not young anymore, remember?" I said, before sitting down.

We ate and caught up. Everyone talked about the cities they lived in, their jobs and relationships. I loved Dallas and Trevor and was trying not to think about my job. I told everyone I got my doctorate in physical therapy and worked at a hospital in California and a clinic in Dallas.

Around 10pm, Donovan and Justin left with their wife and kids.

"About time." Ian muttered, pulling out some weed. Blunts were rolled and passed around. I wasn't drinking, but when Bianca passed the blunt to me, I took a hit.

I handed it to Trevor next.

We all made plans for the weekend and we discussed when everyone was going back to their respective cities.

"I'm staying another week with Noelle, then we're heading up east." Christian said. "Y'all are welcome to stay however long you want."

"We should stay Lily." Bianca grinned at me, high as a kite. I probably was too. I smoked every time she passed it to me.

I laughed at her. "I can't."

"Yes you can. You don't have anywhere to be." She pointed out.

"Are you working Lily?" Angela caught on.

I glared at Bianca. She just laughed.

"I'm in between jobs at the moment." I answered, causally.

"I heard that before. My future ex wife did that after we got married. She stayed that way, now she wants alimony." J-Mike huffed, before finishing his shot of tequila.

"What does that mean?" I asked, threateningly.

"It means don't move in with her until she has a job, Trevor." He stated.

"Fuck you J-Mike. I have a doctorate and I work in health care. I have a job, whenever and wherever I want it." I defended myself.

"Key words Trevor: want it. You're going to stop being her boyfriend in turn into her 5 year plan. Trust me, I know." J-Mike continued.

"Wasn't you wife a few years from retirement? What would she need a five year plan for?" Trevor asked, good humoredly.

J-Mike laughed, before he stopped himself. "She was 12 years older and didn't look it." J-Mike argued.

"What was your wife's 5 year plan? Don't die?" I said, quoting Adam Sandler's big daddy.

Everyone cracked up laughing and J-Mike hid a smile as he stood up. "Ex-wife. Who else needs a drink?"

J-Mike refilled the glasses and the blunt came back around to me. I took another hit.

"You good?" Trevor asked me, while taking J-Mike's offer for another drink.

"I'm fantastic." I smiled.

And I really was. I was having a great time with everyone. Christian played music, including some of his songs (douchey, but they were great party songs!), and we danced, talked, smoked and drank. I took a break from dancing with Jordan to get a drink. I stuck with water, even though Christian offered me champagne.

I was going to rest beside Trevor but Brooke was sitting next to him. Trevor saw me and patted his lap, inviting me to sit, but I shook my head and squeezed in beside Bilal who was one the other side of Trevor. When I threw my legs over Bilal, he looked at me, questioningly.

"Are you comfortable?" Bilal asked.

"Very. Are you ok?" I asked.

"I'm great."

"It's ok. You can talk to me." I comforted him, rubbing his hair.

"I'm ok." He chuckled, shaking me off.

"Rocky's not. She's giving Brandon back the ring-" I tried to inform him, but Trevor stood up and grabbed my hand.

"Come sit over here." He said, pulling me to my feet and into his lap.

I cuddled against him contently.

The party broke up around 3am and we headed out. When we got back to the hotel, Trevor and I crashed in bed.

Trevor groped all over my body as he kissed me. When he yawned against his lips, I pulled away.

"You're sleepy?" I asked.

"A little bit." He admitted. "But I'm not asleep yet..."

"Go to sleep. I want you fully awake."

"Ok. I love you." He said, kissing my shoulder.

"I love you too." I said, closing my eyes.

I loved him, my friends, Mexico and my family. I was having the time of my life and it was just day one.

Miss Independent

"Miss independent
Miss self-sufficient
Miss keep your distance
Miss unafraid
Miss out of my way
Miss don't let a man interfere, no
Miss on her own
Miss almost grown
Miss never let a man help her off her throne
So, by keeping her heart protected
She'd never ever feel rejected
Little miss apprehensive
Said ooh, she fell in love
What is the feelin' takin' over?
Thinkin' no one could open my door
Surprise...It's time
To feel what's real
What happened to Miss Independent?
No more the need to be defensive
Goodbye, old you
When love is true" Miss Independent by Kelly Clarkson


The Monday the week before Memorial Day, I tried to convince Rocky to come to Mexico.

"It's a Baylor reunion! When's the last time we've all been together? It's going to be so much fun." I said, excitedly as we sat at her house Monday evening,

"Absolutely not Lily." Rocky shut me down.

"Is this about Bilal? Because he said he wouldn't go if you came-"

"How considerate." She scoffed. "Tell him not to worry, think or speak about me."

I sighed. "Rocky, y'all are going to have to move on. Part of the reason why this whole thing happened is because y'all never had closure."

"I have closure. I want to be with Brandon. My chances are already slim to none. I'm not risking that by being anywhere Bilal might even consider going." Rocky declared.

"And how is that going to work, permanently? Like my wedding, for example?" I interrogated her.

"I'm sorry, did you and Trevor get engaged and I didn't know about it?" Rocky smirked.

"He actually proposed last weekend." I smirked back.

"What? You are getting married?!?" She exclaimed.

"No. It was out of spite, but it will happen eventually." I informed her.

"Back up and explain." She ordered me.

I told her about Trevor's mom and how badly Trevor reacted.

"What did she say?" Rocky said with a scowl on her face.

"I don't even care. Trevor and I are good. Anyone who has a problem with us can kick rocks." I shrugged.

"You still need to know. He might be mad right now, but that's not going to be forever. He's not going to cut her off."

"I know that. I would never want him to."

"So you need to know what you're dealing with." She urged me.

"Nope, because I'm not dealing with it. He has a relationship with his mom: I don't need one. Besides, isn't it normal that the mother in law hates the wife?" I said.

"It isn't the same and you know it." Rocky disagreed.

"We're not talking about me; stop changing the subject. When Trevor and I do get married, you will be my maid of honor. Bilal will be the best man. What are you going to do? Not come if he's there? " I questioned her.

Rocky hesitated before she spoke. "Lily-"

"Ohmygod, you really wouldn't come? To my wedding?" I said, in disbelief.

"I didn't say that. The trip to Cabo and reunion- I don't see a point in it. I don't need closure with Bilal. He's my past. I want to leave it there."

"So what am I? I went to Baylor too: am I part of the past your trying to leave behind?" I asked, crossing my arms.

"No, you're like a sister to me."

"You're like a sister to me too and you've changed. From this kick ass,  brutally honest, warrior princess to... this. Tip toeing around the problem and waiting it out because that's what Ethan said. That's not you."

"You told me to give him time too." She pointed out.

"Yeah, to calm down. I also said to fight for him. And since when do you give a fuck about what people think? You make your own decisions."

"Maybe that's part of my problem." Rocky muttered.

"Rocky, you made a mistake. That doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you. You don't have to change who you are." I disagreed.

"Fine. Let me handle it my own way. Stay out of my business Lily." Rocky said.

"Fine. I will stay out of it. Can I ask what you're  doing for Memorial Day?"

"I'm going to hang with Peyton and Jackie. Have fun, don't worry about me." Rocky said.

"Ok." I conceded, before giving her a hug and leaving.



Tuesday morning, I went shopping for a swimsuit cover up at the mall. I found one and a cute swimsuit at a little boutique. It was similar to my old swimsuit I got rid up: floral, skirted and one piece. Only this one had cut outs, a halter top and was backless. It was the sexy version of the one Trevor called cute, so I had to get it.

As I was leaving, I got a call from the clinic. I quickly picked it up. It was Ann, calling to set up a meeting with me. I told her I would have to get back with her. I immediately called Nathaniel.

He was out of the office so I left a message. He returned my phone call later on that afternoon while I was going through my clothes. Nathaniel told me more than likely it was a mediation to discuss my grievance and see what it would take to resolve the problem. He offered to come with me if I scheduled the meeting for next week, but I turned him down. I didn't want to wait to hear what Ann had to say.

Nathaniel informed me we could escalate the grievance but not if I agreed to anything during the meeting.  He advised me if they didn't come to a solution I was satisfied with, not to agree to anything. I told him I understood and thanked him for his time.

I called Ann back after I got off the phone with Nathaniel. We made an appointment to meet Wednesday at 10am.

I was nervous the rest of the day. I tried to imagine every different scenario and how I would respond. The hardest part was I really didn't know what would be the best solution for me. If I didn't know, how could I agree to anything?

Trevor tried to calm me by taking my mind off it, but it wasn't happening. Sleep didn't come easy that night. I tried to work out to wear myself out, but it didn't work. My body was exhausted, but my mind was wide awake. Thankfully, Trevor was a deep sleeper, so my tossing and turning did not disturb him. In the morning before he left, he gave me a kiss.

"No matter what, you're going to be ok." He said.

I nodded. "I know."

"Good luck Lilypad." He said, kissing me one last time.

After he left, I got dressed in black slacks and a blue blouse. I put on light make-up and headed to the clinic. I took a deep breath and made my way to Ann's office. She was there, waiting for me with Sandra. Dread filled me, as I remember the last time this happened, I was suspended. I kept my face neutral and sat across from Ann next to Sandra.

"Thank you both for joining me this morning." Ann stated after I took a seat. "First thing first, the investigation is over."

"And?" I asked.

"We have a sworn statement from Darren that the alleged relationship never occurred. Miss Lauren Chilcoat also wrote an apology letter." She slid a letter to me. "This is the original. We have a copy on file as well. "

I nodded. "What does that mean for me?"

"It means we can lift the suspension but we have to address your personal grievance." Ann started.

"Ok..." I said, evenly.

"I wished you would have came to me as soon as you heard the rumor. It wouldn't have came this far." Sandra started.

"With all due respect, I didn't have to come to you professionally because it didn't affect my job." I said, firmly.

"An accusation of misconduct affects not only your job, but your license  " Sandra said.

"As soon as I found out about the rumor, not accusation, the girl who started it recanted. The only reason you heard about it was because of your personal relationship." I argued.

Sandra cleared her throat. "I disclosed to Ann how I became aware of the rumors. That, coupled with the fact your former patient voiced concerns about your behavior was more than enough to look into the rumors." Sandra said.

Coach Green had a problem with my behavior? Since when? He never voiced concerns to me. Neither did Sandra when I asked why he no longer wanted to rehab with me. I pushed those thoughts away and focused on the actual problem.

"A rumor and concerns warrant an investigation, but they would not have cost me my job nor my license. I shouldn't have been suspended." I said, confidently.

"I have to point out this is an at will employment. That being said, we may have jumped the gun with the suspension. We could have took a different course of action and for that, I apologize." Ann told me, looking over at Sandra.

"I'm sorry that I didn't come talk to you first before reporting to Ann. I would like to continue to encourage open communication between all of us. " Sandra said.

"We want to rectify the situation; we just need to know how to do that. The suspension is lifted. What else do you need from us?" Ann finished.

I thought over everything they said. All Sandra and Ann had to do was ask me about the rumors. To me, it felt like Sandra trusted the word of her boyfriend and didn't even want to hear my side of it. Everything in me believed Sandra disclosed the relationship with Coach Green after I filed the grievance. She was trying to cover her own ass, not have open communication.

Whether Ann knew about the relationship was not the issue. She admitted they didn't have to suspend me. I could understand if it was an accusation from a patient, then her hands would have been tied. Why she chose to suspend me without questioning me I would never understand.

Accepting their apologizes was easy. Everyone made mistakes; I made plenty. I should have talked to Sandra about the rumors, that was my mistake. What would be hard was rebuilding trust. While that happened, it would be uncomfortable working for them. More importantly, I didn't want to. Rectfying the situation wasn't worth it because the job wasn't worth it to me.

"If my suspension is over, there is nothing else I need." I said.

She turned and started typing on her computer. "Wonderful. Effective immediately, you can come back to work. I just need you to fill out a form-"

"Ann, I don't know if you need a written notice but I need to put in my resignation." I stopped her.

She ceased typing on her computer to look at me. "I thought you wanted the suspension lifted?"

"I did. I want to leave of my own accord and on good standing with the clinic." I said.

"Sandra, will you excuse us please?" Ann asked.

Sandra nodded and left without a word.

"Are you leaving because you feel uncomfortable with Sandra? I can assure you I will-"

"It's not just Sandra. The suspension put everything in perspective for me. It's time for me to move on." I admitted.

"I understand." She said, a frown on her fave

"I don't know if you need 2 weeks notice."

"I do, but we can use you vacation time and sick days for the remaining days." She said

"Thank you Ann. I've enjoyed working with you." I said, standing up and holding out my hand.

"Good luck with everything." She told me, shaking my hand.

 On my way out, I saw Jordan. She looked at me, quizzically. I told her to call me later and I left. As I drove home, it hit me that I quit my job.

Holy shit, I don't have a job.

I didn't question my decision to leave the clinic. There was no way I would have been happy there. I was freaking out that now I no longer had a job. Or a paycheck. Thank God my lease was up, so rent wouldn't be a problem after June. I had money saved up, but if I didn't get a job soon, I would be moving in with Trevor without one. I knew he said it wouldn't be a problem, but I really didn't want to do that. I went from depending on my dad, then my brother, now Trevor.

Fuck, what did I just do?

When I got home, I put Lauren's letter away and applied for more jobs. I even sent an email to Derek, my old boss, about any openings at the Children's Hospital where he worked as the director. Once I did that, I felt considerably calmer and called Trevor.

"Hey Lilypad. How'd it go?" Trevor asked.

"I quit."  I said, bluntly.

"Come have lunch with me."

I met him for lunch at the Jason Deli's near his job. I just got water and a cup of fruit. I wasn't hungry and I didn't have the money to eat out anymore. When Trevor pushed me to order food, I told him I wasn't hungry.

I explained to Trevor what happened. When I finished, he looked at me, the worry apparent in his eyes. It made we feel worse.

"Jordan said Derek could find a job for me. I already emailed him. I'll have a job by the time we move in together. I promise." I said quickly.

He shook his head. "I'm not worried about that. Are you ok? You're sure this is what you want?"

"There's no doubt in my mind. I would rather start new somewhere else. I wasn't thinking about us when I quit though. I don't want to be a burden on you when we move in together." I confessed, staring at my fruit.

"Lily, look at me." Trevor said, grabbing my hand. When I did, he started. "I love you. You could never be a burden to me. I just want you to be happy."

I smiled, instantly relieved. "I am. It felt pretty good about it until I realized I'm not going to have a paycheck anymore. That's the only consequence."

"We can work out an allowance for you." Trevor smiled.

"Shut up. I'm not a kid."

"No, you'd be me trophy wife."

"I want my own money. Besides, I'm too high maintenance." I joked.

"No your not. I can't even get you to order a meal." He smiled at me. My stomach rumbled in protest.

"Ok, you talked me into it."

I broke my diet for a muffaletta and broccoli and cheese soup. As we ate, we light heartedly joked about my budget as his trophy wife. I skipped dessert and as we left, Trevor tried to give me $20.

"Go get your nails done for Mexico."

I laughed. "That would cover half, if I don't get nail art."

"Geez, I really can't support you."

I smiled. "You already do." I said, giving him a kiss.



When I got home, I already had an email from Derek, letting me now he sent my resume to the Human resources manager. I emailed him back a thank you and did the same for Nathaniel. I told Nathaniel what happened and asked him how much I owed for his time. I called Jordan back and let her know what happened.

"Are you still going to Cabo?" She asked, concerned.

"I already bought the tickets. Besides, it'll be like my last hoorah before I get another job. I should live it up right?" I told her.

"Absolutely!"

Later that evening, I received an email from Nathaniel. He told me he was glad that everything worked out and told me the bill was already taken care of. I emailed him back, pushing for a receipt. When he finally sent one, I cursed my career choice. 

$500 dollars for a few conversations and one personal grievance? Fuck!

I wrote a check to Ethan and put it in an envelope to put in the mail the next morning. I was totally going to take Trevor's $20 to get my nails done now. Any little bit helped!

Bad Blood

"Band-aids don't fix bullet holes
You say sorry just for show
If you live like that, you live with ghosts
(You forgive, you forget but you never let it go)
Band-aids don't fix bullet holes
You say sorry just for show
If you live like that you live with ghosts
If you love like that blood runs cold
Cause baby, now we got bad blood
You know it used to be mad love
So take a look what you've done
Cause baby, now we got bad blood, hey!
Now we got problems
And I don't think we can solve 'em
You made a really deep cut
And baby, now we got bad blood, hey!" Bad Blood Remix by Taylor Swift ft Kendrick Lamar



I spent the rest of my week filling out job applications. I still hadn't heard from my job yet, and I didn't know what to expect. I hadn't heard back from Adil either, so I figured it might be time to start seeing who was hiring. My natural instinct when I got stressed was to eat, so I combated it by focusing on my workouts and eating healthy.

I took a break at the gym when my phone rang, indicating a text. I saw I had a message from Christian.

Christian: Still have a room open...

Trevor was all for the trip to Mexico. He did not want to stay in a room Christian offered at the beach house, even though I tried to talk him into it.

"Bianca wants to hang out with his girlfriend. She’s a fan.” I explained to Trevor.

“What does his girlfriend do again?” Trevor asked.

“Apparently, she’s a reality TV star.”

“Which one?”

“I don’t know. Her name is Noelle something.” I shrugged.

“You didn’t look her up?” he asked as he played with his phone.

“No…Anyway, Bianca feels weird asking for a room if we're not staying there. With my whole job situation, it'll probably be best to save the money-"

"I'll pay for the room. I don't want to stay at his house." Trevor cut me off.

"Fine." I rolled my eyes.

He didn't notice; he was too busy on his phone. “Wow, she’s hot.” Trevor whistled.

"Who?"

"Noelle Pennington."

“Really Trevor?” I cut my eyes at him.

He began to fake cough. “I mean, if you like that kinda thing.”

 “Let me see.” I said, holding out my hand. When he handed his phone over, I examined her picture, automatically looking for flaws. With her thin frame, shiny dark hair, piercing blue eyes and clear skin, I didn't find one.

“Photoshop.” I said, handing him back his phone.

“Of course. No one can be as naturally beautiful as you-“ Trevor agreed.

“Shut up Trevor!” I grinned.

“I love you too." He chuckled.

Once we decided we were going, I messaged Christian after I booked the flight and hotel. He called me immediately and told me he saved us a room. I told him we didn't need it, but my poor, struggling college student cousin would take him up on his offer if there was a room open. He laughed and agreed.

Apparently, he still had another room open, because he texted me about it at the gym. I texted him back.

Me: Still good. Gracias! Hasta la próxima semana! :-)

On the way out the gym, I ran into Q. I didn't even realize we went to the same gym. It was so weird.

We chatted briefly, and he told me he couldn't work out at the clinic anymore because they were too busy. Sandra also was on leave, so everyone was reporting to Ann. I didn't tell him I filed a personal grievance, but it did make me wonder if she took vacation time or if she was suspended too. I would have felt bad, if she didn't screw me over. I felt kinda numb about the whole thing.



When I came home from a waxing appointment with Jordan Friday night, Jasmine and Kelly were in the living room watching TV. I greeted them warmly, but didn't say anything else. The few encounters I had with Jasmine after our disagreement were brief and cordial. I wasn't going out of my way to have a conversation and she must have been doing the same.

Kelly must not have gotten the memo, or she disregarded it, because she immediately stopped the movie so she could chat with me.

"Staying in tonight?" Kelly asked me as I remained standing. That's was my plan: A hot bath to relax after the torture that was waxing. I always thought I had a high tolerance for pain until my first wax. It always hurt like hell; I would never get "used" to it like Jordan claimed she did. I would normally drink wine to dull the pain, but it wasn't an option with my diet.

"Yeah, what about y'all?" I asked, politely.

"Pretty much the same. The guys are having a poker night, so I got kicked out my house." Kelly smiled.

"Kicked out huh? You sure it's a poker night?" I teased.

"It better be!" Kelly laughed. “So, how's Rocky?" She asked after a pause.

"She's hanging in there." I said, vaguely. Obviously, everyone knew.

"I get it. Hopefully they'll get through it." Kelly finished.

Jasmine smacked her lips in protest. "She cheated. I highly doubt that."

I took a moment before I responded. Can't lie, my first reaction was to tell her to shut the hell up, but I was trying to understand where she was coming from. In the book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, it said seek to understand then be understood.

I understood if they both were loyal to Brandon: they should be. He was their friend first. My loyalties were with Rocky, whether she was right or wrong. I just didn't understand how Jasmine thought she had the right to comment when she had no idea what happened. I knew, and I kept my opinions to myself. I didn’t even feel comfortable talking about it…

Then I remember I told Jake. Dammit, I should have kept my mouth shut. I thought he would persuade Brandon to talk to Rocky, not encourage him to demand his ring back. Changed man my ass. He might as well get a fucking "X" over his compass tattoo. Or maybe have the needle pointing to bullshit…

Kelly spoke, cutting off my hateful thoughts of redesigning Jake's tattoo with a Swiss army knife. "Omar and I had been off and on before we got married. I've been in both Rocky's and Brandon shoes. We made it because we worked through it. They can do if they want to."

I nodded. "Whatever they want to do, they still have to talk and work it out. That's how relationships end with no animosity." I said, pointedly. Jasmine smacked her lips again.

Thankfully, my phone rang, so I said goodnight to Kelly and Jasmine before I couldn't fight the urge to smack her.

It was Sammy, confirming our plans to go to EJ's game together with the guys and asking if we wanted to see Pitch Perfect 2 afterwards. I quickly agreed. My plans changed from a bath to a shower and watching Pitch Perfect in bed.

Saturday afternoon, I drove to Trevor's apartment so we could wait for Sammy and Corey to pick us up. When they arrived, we hopped in the backseat of Sammy's Mazda and headed to the soccer field. I frowned up when I heard the alternative emo music playing in her car.

"Sammy, what are we listening to?"

"I don't fucking know. Ask DJ Suicide over here." Sammy gripped, shooting Corey a look.

"Change it. Everyone knows the driver is the DJ." I complained.

"No, you can't DJ and drive. Passenger picks the music. Backseat just enjoys the ride." Corey said, turning briefly to look at us.

"Whatever." I mumbled, unable to argue with that.

"I'm already enjoying it." Trevor teased me. I pinched his leg and smiled when he yelped.



I knew last week's soccer games were rained out. I didn't realize this would be EJ's last game of the season, meaning a trophy presentation, and the stands filled with families. When we got to the field, I saw Megan in her normal spot. Sitting next to her was Serena. Mrs. and Mr. Carter were in the row below them and Brandon was on the sideline next to Ethan. Our eyes met briefly before he turned away.

This was going to be fun.

We found a spot for all of us towards the bottom of the bleachers. I waved hello to everyone before we sat. We watched the game and chatted among ourselves. During halftime, Serena moved to sit beside me.

"Hey, I didn't know you were coming. I figured Rocky wasn't coming, so you wouldn't either." She said.

I was a little thrown off by that assumption, but I left it alone.

"Yeah Corey promised EJ he'd watch a game, so here we are." I smiled.

"Great, I need your help..." she said, in a conspiratorial tone.

"What? Ethan's parents?"

"No, parents love me."

I smirked. Must be nice.

"I need help with EJ. He's so standoffish. I need an in." She admitted.

I grinned. "I got in when he was 4. All I had to know was Yo Gabba Gabba and SpongeBob.”

"That's a problem. I have no idea what Yo Gabba Gabba is and SpongeBob gives me a migraine."

"Don't worry about Yo Gabba Gabba, he out grew it. And SpongeBob is awesome, what's wrong with you?"

"The laugh, the yellow, the stupidity? I can't." Serena declared.

I laughed. "Just give it time. EJ’s just reserved like his dad. Speaking of, are y'all official now?" I asked.

"We're dating exclusively. That's good enough for me." Serena said, clearly not wanting to talk about it anymore.

"One more question... Who lives in a pineapple under the sea?" I grinned.

"Bye Lily." She said, with a little smile before going back up the bleachers.

"What was that about?" Sammy asked.

"SpongeBob." I answered.

After the Fireballs lost their last game, we stuck around to applaud the kids as they got their participation trophies. We stood off the the side of the field while the next game got started. I moved in to stand next to Brandon.

I turned to Brandon while we waited.

"Hey Brandon." I said casually, testing the waters.

"Hey." He said, simply, staring straight ahead.

"How is everything?" I asked.

"Everything is good." He said, still refusing to look at me. Fuck, did we have a problem now? I was guilty by association? 

I nodded awkwardly. "That's good."

EJ finally joined us. I congratulated him on his season and asked if he was playing basketball over the summer like last year.

"No. Mom and dad are letting me go to band camp this year." EJ informed me.

"Cool." I smiled.

"You still want to take lessons with me?" Corey asked.

EJ nodded his head enthusiastically.

"You're the reason why he's beating on everything?" Mr. Carter asked Corey, good humoredly.

"Only if it sounds good." Corey replied.

"Of course it does. It’s in his blood. I was in a marching band. Drum line."

"He played the cymbals." Mrs. Carter asked.

"The cymbals are an important part of the line-" Mr. Carter protested. While he did, Mrs. Carter pretended like she was banging two cymbals together. Everyone laughed. Even Brandon cracked a smile.

"How are we celebrating Ethan?" Mr. Carter asked.

"They have their team party at CiCi's, but we can get together at my house." Ethan said.

As we walked to the parking lot, I said goodbye to everyone.

"You're not going to join us?" Mrs. Carter asked.

"No, We’re actually have plans to see Pitch Perfect 2." I declined.

"What is that about?" Mrs. Carter asked.

"Aca-scuse me?!?" I exclaimed.

"Somebody's in treble..." Trevor grinned. I laughed.

"I'm guessing those are from the movie?" Ethan asked.

"Yes, and you wouldn't have to guess if you saw it."

"Doesn't sound like I'm messing much." Ethan smirked.

"It's a comedy Mrs. Carter. About an all girl acapella group." I told her, ignoring Ethan.

"It's Deborah, Miss. Harris." She chided me, playfully.

"I'm sorry Deborah. It's a really funny movie."

"I'll make sure I check it out." She smiled, before heading to her car with her husband.

Before we headed in separate directions, I stopped Ethan.

"Thanks for the heads up with Brandon and your parents. That was aca-awkward."

"I haven't seen the movie Lily. I know your sense of humor. I hope it's not too crude for my mom." He said.

"It's not. It's pretty tame. I think your mom likes crude. She liked my mother's day post on Facebook."

"Don't remind me. I was there when she watched it."

 "Awkward?!?  Like how I felt around Brandon and your parents? Then we are even." I joked, before turning serious, "Do they hate Rocky?"

"Hate the situation, of course, but not Rocky. They hope they stay together."

 “I don't see any hope. Brandon's acting like he hates her." I said sadly.

"The opposite of love isn't hate."

"What?" I asked, confused.

"It requires feeling to hate. Indifference is the opposite of love. When he doesn't care anymore, that's when you should give up hope. " Ethan told me.

I nodded. That made a ton of sense...

"Hey, Ethan. Are you ready?" Serena called out to him.

"Yeah, what's the hold up?" Brandon said, narrowing his eyes suspiciously at us.

"Be right there. I'm inviting Lily to the BBQ on Memorial Day."Ethan lied, effortlessly. I was kinda impressed by how smooth it was.

"Are you coming?" Serena asked me.

"No, we're going to be in Mexico, but thanks for the invite." I smiled at Ethan. He gave me a smile back before I left.

We hopped in Sammy's car and headed to the movies. I snuck to the passenger seat before Corey so I could control the music. Sammy and I jammed out to rap music as it blared out Sammy's speaker.

"I love how Lily's singing about having 6 jobs, but she doesn't have one." Corey quipped.

"You don't know her life! Dealing with Trevor is like 10 jobs." She exclaimed.

"So true." I smiled.

"I love how gangster they think they are." Trevor joined in.

"It's gangsta. Not gangster, token." I laughed. "Kinda like how you got all gangsta with your refrigerator."

"What happened with the refrigerator?" Sammy asked.

"Who won?" Corey laughed.

"Considering Trevor was all bruised up, I'm guessing the refrigerator." I joked.

"Hey, you didn't see the refrigerator." Trevor defending himself, laughing.

"I did. Not a scratch on it." I commented.



We had a great time at the movies. I thought it was hilarious. The only thing I wished for was more Skylar Astin, because I loved his voice. On the way back, I sat in the backseat with Trevor and we listened to the Pitch Perfect soundtracks.

We went to Sammy’s apartment to eat and hang out.  We picked up Chick-Fil-A and I stuck to my diet and ordered a grilled chicken sandwich. I stole one waffle fry from Trevor. Ok, maybe 3, but he didn’t see me, so it didn’t count.

“Are you dieting for your bikini or are you wearing an awful one piece?” Sammy asked me.

“Neither. I’m dieting cause I have to get a job. And I got rid of that awful swimsuit.”

“It wasn't awful, it was cute.” Trevor said while chewing his food.

“It was a fat girl swimsuit. Lily doesn’t need to wear that.” Sammy said.

“I wish you were coming. I don’t care what type of swimsuit you wear.” Corey commented.

Sammy gave him a sweet smile. “I'll see what I can do.”

“Awww, that’s so cute.” I teased.

"He actually wants to take his girlfriend to Mexico. Sand to the beach. He must be in love.” Trevor continued. We laughed at each other.

“Y'all are so dumb. I’m so glad y'all love each other; no one else will be able to deal with you two.” Sammy said.

Trevor and I both looked at each other. I shrugged; she was right, but I didn’t want anyone else to deal with me. Trevor must have agreed, cause he leaned in to give me a kiss... and a fry.



Sunday, I spent helping Trevor pack for Mexico. He literally was going to bring only swim trunks, t-shirts, baseball caps and sunblock.

“What if we go out to dinner?” I pointed out.

“I'm wearing jeans on the way down.”

“Just take one nice shirt and khakis. It can be a button down.”

He grumbled at me, but did it.  

Sunday evening, we stayed in and watch the Billboard Music Awards together.  I dance around and sang along to the performances and got annoyed with all the cuts to Taylor Swift. I had a love hate relationship with Taylor Swift. I loved her music, and her style, and she was so pretty, but she really annoyed me. I hated her personality. Using Ethan’s theory, I guess it made sense.

 “So Cabo…Is Rocky coming?” Trevor asked during a commercial break.

“She was a big no, but I’m trying to talk her into it.” I said, between the sit-ups I was doing during commercials.

“Maybe not. Bilal wasn’t coming if she was…”

“Really, so we’re taking sides now?” I stopped, hugging my knees as I took a break.

“No. No sides to take.” Trevor said with a smile.

“That's right. She’s going through a broken engagement. She needs us.” I argued.

“Sounds like she wants time to think about things, alone.” Trevor countered.

“Maybe Bilal needs to stay home and think about his actions.”

"Maybe, but Bilal wants to go. She doesn’t." Trevor said.

"Ok, let's stay out of it. For real. They're adults. There going to have to see each other eventually." I reasoned.

"Not if we elope." Trevor commented.

"What?!?" I exclaimed.

"That's the only time they would have to see each other is at our wedding. Let's just go somewhere, the two of us. No problem." Trevor explained.

"Nice try, but no. I want a huge wedding." I joked." They'll figure it out. Maybe in Cabo..."

The awards show came back on, so I joined him on the couch. "Why do I feel like I'm going to need a vacation from this vacation?" Trevor sighed, wrapping his arms around me.

“Because that's how much fun we're going to have!" I said optimistically. "That’s the best kind of vacation!" I smiled, before focusing on Kanye West's performance.





*Sorry it's late! And for the errors. I just wanted to post. I will edit more tomorrow. I read the requests for different perspectives and flashbacks. They are coming. I just needed some things to happen first. Happy Memorial Day weekend everyone!

***Updated the character guide. Added Trevor's uncle, Justine, Christian and Noelle. Let me know if there's someone I'm missing!

Latch

"You lift my heart up when the rest of me is down
You, you enchant me even when you're not around
If there are boundaries, I will try to knock them down
I’m latching on, babe, now I know what I have found
I feel we're close enough
Could I lock in your love?
I feel we’re close enough
Could I lock in your love?
Now I’ve got you in my space
I won’t let go of you
Got you shackled in my embrace
I’m latching on to you" Latch (Acoustic) by Sam Smith

"T-Rev, what's wrong with you?" I asked when I found my voice, running my fingers against his short hair. My heart felt like it was going to burst out of my chest, but I kept it together.

He pulled away abruptly and glared at me. Even in the dark, I could see the harshness of his glare. I held my ground and stared back.

"There's something wrong with me because I want to marry you?" He asked, in disbelief.

"There is something wrong with you. You're upset. I can tell. Talk to me." I said, soothingly, trying to stroke his face. He yanked away from me, his eyes flashing angrily.

He got out of bed and pulled on some clothes.

"I am upset. I told you I wanted to marry you and that's your response." He said, his voice filled with more hostility than I ever heard from him.

"Trevor-" I barely got his name out before he stalked out the room and slammed the door. I got up, dressed and followed him. I found him standing over the sink in the kitchen.

I approached him but he didn't look up. "I understand if you're upset. If you need time, take it; but I know this is not about the house, or marriage or us." I informed him.

"Yes it is." He said, stubbornly but refused to meet my eye.

"No it's not. If you're trying to pick a fight so I'll leave, I will just go." I said, dejectedly.

"No, don't leave." He said, quickly.

"Then don't lie to me. You've been upset since we left your mom's house. I felt it the second you came home. I respect if you don't want to talk about it. Respect that I know you better than that." I said, gently but firmly.

He turned around to look at me, his face bleak.

"I'm sorry. You're right." He looked down before starting again. "My mom and your dad both agree we're not right for each other."

I tried to keep the hurt from showing on my face, but I don't think I did.

"Why?" I asked, not really wanting to know the answer, but I couldn't help myself.

He covered his face in his hand. "I don't even want to go into everything she said."

That made me want to know even more, but I was more distracted by his bruised knuckles.

"Trevor! What happened?" I gasped, grabbing his hand.

His winced, but let me take it away from his face.

"The refrigerator ran into my fist." He said, jokingly. I gave him a disapproving look and he looked away. I went to the freezer and grabbed a few pieces of ice. I retrieved a plastic grocery bag from his pantry. After making him an ice bag, I led him to the couch. We sat down and iced his knuckles.

"At least your dad was upfront about his feelings. As much as I might not like it, at least there were no surprises. "Trevor shook his head and paused.  "I've never seen this side of my mom. It's was-I can't believe it Lily."

I stroked his hand encouragingly as I listened.

"I can show your dad I can take care of you, that we're good together. My mom- she's just going to have to accept us. If she doesn't-" he trailed off.

I shook my head. "She will, just give it time ok? Hopefully by the time you propose, for real." I smiled, trying to lighten the mood. He gave me a weak smile in return.

After we iced his hand, we went back to bed. My head was filled with all the little strange things I ignored concerning Trevor's mom after we started dating. A lot of different ideas swirled around in my head until I realized ultimately, it didn't matter.

We would treat it just like the situation with my dad. It didn't change our relationships with them. I knew how it felt not to have my mom in my life. I didn't want Trevor to experience that and I knew he would never want me to not have a relationship with my dad.

Hopefully, they would come around. More importantly, it didn't change us. I loved Trevor and he loved me. We were going to be together no matter what. I knew that without a doubt. We had each other, and that's all that mattered.

Monday morning, I woke up early to make Trevor a breakfast sandwich before he went to work. I went home with Justine, got dressed and ran some errands. The first was dropping off my personal grievance to Ann. On my way to her office, I chatted with Jordan and promised her we would grab lunch or dinner together soon.

I also went to my apartment complex office and gave them notice of me not renewing my lease. Then I went grocery shopping for Trevor's place and went back his apartment. I made shrimp scampi, rice and green beans and played on my phone while I waited for him to come home.

I saw I had a message on Facebook from Christian. He sent a group message inviting us to Cabo San Lucas for Memorial Day. Considering my job situation, I wasn't even going to considered it, but Bianca messaged me too, asking if we were going. I gave her a call.

"You're going? Since when are you friends with Christian?" I asked her when she answered.

"Since the concert! And not Christian, his girlfriend! I need to go. My future depends on it." She said, dramatically.

Bianca was the least dramatic person I knew, so my interest was piqued.

"His girlfriend? You know her?" I asked.

"Everyone knows her! He's dating Noelle!"

"Noelle?"

"Noelle Pennington?!? Her parents own a luxury furniture chain-she's a reality star/stylist to the stars. She saw the blazer I designed at the Tiesto show and she told me I have great style. Great style!" She exclaimed.

"That's awesome B, but maybe I should talk to Christian to make sure she was being sincere before you get too excited."

"Lily, she was! Watch her show on E!. She's so cool and down to earth and super funny." Bianca gushed.

"I'm sure she has writers B." I smiled.

"In real life too!"

"Y'all hung out more than once?"

"No, but we're friends on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and we chat sometimes."

"Sounds like I need to come to make sure you don't drink her bath water or something." I joked.

"Maybe her blood..." Bianca mused.

I laughed. "I'll get back to you about it."

"Regardless, I'm planning to see you before I start working this summer, so let me know."

"Will do."

I looked through the invite again to see who was all invited. It looked like a college reunion: everyone who was part of our "Baylor group" was invited. Christian wrote bedrooms at the guest house was first come first serve, but provided a link of nearby hotels and villas. Trevor came home from work while I was looking through them.

"Hey T-Rev." I smiled at him. He gave me a lopsided smile back.

"Hey Lilypad." He said, walking over and giving me a kiss on the forehead. "It smells good in here."

"Yeah, I made dinner. Let me make sure it's still warm." I said, getting up from the couch. After I heated our plates, we sat down and ate.

"How's your hand?" I asked him. He stopped mid bite to examine it.

"It's fine." He answered, plainly. "How was your day?"

"Productive. I gave Ann my grievance, dropped off my 30 day notice at my apartment. So come June you'll have a new-hopefully employed- roommate. Or two roommates including Justine. Which we should probably tell your apartment manager, huh?" I pondered out loud.

"I'll take care of it." Trevor responded.

There was an awkward moment of silence, so I kept talking. "About my employment situation, remember Adil? The guy I went to graduate school with?"

Trevor looked up at me. "The guy that took you rock climbing on a date and got mad when you won?"

I smiled. "So he was a little competitive: great friend, bad date. Anyway, he told me people are getting moved around, meaning they have to hire new therapists. He told me to send him my resume." I said.

"Where does he work? A hospital?"

"No, a sports clinic like I work at now, but it's the clinic for the Dallas Mavericks!" I said, excitedly.

"So, you'll travel with the team?" Trevor questioned.

"No. Only the team doctor and his staff does that. Like right now, Chandler Parson has a knee injury that required surgery. He would come to the clinic, get the surgery and rehab before rejoining the team."

"Should I know who Chandler Parson is?" He asked.

"No... but I do! That's why I feel like this would be a good fit for me. I'm trying not to get excited, but I did send him my resume." I told him.

"Good, I'll be excited for you." He said, smiling but it didn't reach his eyes.

"Thanks." I said, before focusing on my food. I only got green beans and shrimp. If I had to start interviewing, I wanted to be in great shape.

We continued to chat over our meal, but I could tell something was off. I couldn't name it, but I could feel it. I didn't bring up the Mexico trip. I figured he got the message too, so I would wait for him to bring it up. That made me realize I was initiating all the conversations. I knew something was wrong, but he wasn't angry or upset, and I didn't want him to be, so I left it alone.

On Tuesday, I invited the girls to have dinner with me. Jordan, Sammy, Amber and Rocky were all able to make it. After we got settled with drinks and ordered our food, (water and salad for me) I told everyone about Trevor's and my plans to move in together.

"When my lease is up, I'm moving in his place, but then we're going to find a place together." I explained.

“Oh wow. That’s huge. I told you y’all would be married next!” Amber exclaimed excitedly.

“Calm down with all of that. We're just moving in together.” I shook my head. The last thing I needed was in more engagement bullshit. I had enough for one week, thank you.

"Yeah, don't jinx them Amber." Sammy said, smirking.

"Moving in without a ring is a jinx." Jordan commented. I looked at her, questioningly.

"If you're making a commitment to live together, you might as well be engaged." Jordan stated.

"One commitment isn't enough?" I said, confused.

"I'm just saying, living together is hard. If you're going to commit to it, you should have a ring." Jordan explained.

"A ring doesn't mean commitment. Actions do." Rocky disagreed. "You should do what you feel comfortable with. I can help you figure out what you can afford and hook you two up with a realtor."

"We're holding back on any major decisions until I have a job." I said.

"What is going on that? When will you be back?" Jordan asked.

I explained to them the personal grievance I just filed.

"I don't know how you could still work under her. She needs to be suspended." Amber said disgusted when I told them about Sandra and my former patient.

"We’ll see what happens." I shrugged.

"We are always looking for new bartenders." Sammy smiled at me.

I snorted. "I don't think I'm honey bee material."

We ate, chatted and talked about our weekend. Sammy told us how she had dinner with her mom, Amber had to work, but Will cooked dinner for the family; Jordan went shopping with her mom; and shockingly Rocky drove to Houston to visit her mom.

"I figured I would break the news to her in person." Rocky said. Everyone nodded sadly, except Jordan.

"What news?" She asked, confused.

"The engagement is off... indefinitely." Rocky struggled to admit. She fidget with her hand. I looked down to see she wasn't wearing her ring.

"I'm so sorry." Jordan said, sympathetically.

“Me too.” Rocky said simply.

"What's up with Memorial Day?" I said, changing the subject. Rocky looked at me grateful. I smiled.

Sammy told us she would be working. Amber looked uncomfortable as she said, "Will and Ethan wanted to do Joe Pool Lake again. With the kids, it's easy and family friendly."

"That sounds nice." I said, quickly glancing at Rocky. Her face stayed neutral, but I knew she was thinking about Brandon. Just last year they threw a Memorial Day party at the same lake. "Christian invited us to Mexico. Were you thinking about it Rocky?"

"No." She said, quickly.

"Maybe you should." I nodded.

"Can I take her spot if she doesn't go? Derek chose to work. I choose not to sit at home waiting around for him." Jordan declared.

I smiled. "Whatever we do, you're invited!"

After dinner, we got up and hugged goodbye.

"This was so nice! We haven't had a girl's night in forever." Amber commented.

"I know. We need to do this more often. No boyfriends." Sammy agreed.

"After Memorial Day." I nodded as we went our separate ways. I followed Rocky to her house.

When I pulled into her driveway, she stood outside her car waiting for me.

"I thought you learned your lesson about stalking people." Rocky said, narrowing her eyes at me.

"Never." I said, closing my car door after I got out. "You're not wearing your ring. Did you talk to Brandon?"

"No, I actually talked to Ethan." She confessed.

My confusion must have read on my face, because she explained.

"He called me Sunday evening to ask what was going on. Brandon told his family we broke up over the weekend." She said, calmly.

"Rocky-" I started.

"No, it's ok."

"It's not ok." I disagreed.

"My mistakes got me here. I have no one to blame but myself. I wish things worked out differently, but it didn't. I can't force him to hear me out. I'm sending back his ring."

"Rocky, I thought you were going to fight for him." I reminded her.

"There's nothing to fight about. Talking to Ethan finally made me realize that."

"What? What did he say?" I exclaimed.

"Nothing bad. He asked me to give it some time. He told me when Megan cheated on him, it took him time to forgive her, but he did." Rocky explained.

"So how did you take that to mean giving up?" I asked, bewildered.

"I'm not giving up. It just can't be on my terms, when and how I want it. I'm waiting for him to want to talk to me. Until then, I'm respecting his wishes. Including leaving him alone and sending back his ring." Rocky said.

I nodded understandingly. "I get that. I just wish Brandon would hear the truth."

"Me too, but it's not my decision."

"Maybe you should write a letter, when you send back the ring? It worked for me and Jake." I suggested.

"Maybe." She shrugged. I started to leave, but Rocky stopped me. "Ethan wanted to send you a card."

"For what?"

"Mother's Day." When I made a face, she continued. "That's what I told him would be your reaction."

"I didn't even know they made sorry I knocked you up and accused you of an abortion when you miscarried cards." I said, sarcastically.

"Pretty sure Hallmark makes a card for everything." Rocky smirked

I sighed. "Why would he even want to bring it up?"

"It was years ago for you; it's been less than a year for him. He's a lot more sensitive than he puts off."

"I guess. I will never figure him out." I shrugged, before leaving.

I went to Trevor's apartment. He was in bed, working on his laptop and barely acknowledged me. I lost my patience with him. I knew we were supposed to be pulling together, but I also knew him well enough to know something was still wrong. Fuck not making him upset; now I was. I wasn't going to continue to plan our future if this was what it was going to be now.

"Look, I don't want to be a nagging girlfriend that always wants to talk about feelings, but this isn't going to work for me." I started, standing over him.

Trevor took a deep breath and put his laptop away. "What's up?"

"You tell me. You didn't want to tell me what your mom said, and I thought I didn't need to know. If it changes things between us, we need to talk about it." I demanded.

He shook his head. "It doesn't."

"Then what is it? Things aren't the same." I said, impatiently.

"I proposed to you to spite my mom. I feel like an idiot." He admitted.

I sat down beside him and sighed. "I understand that, probably better than anyone. I've been doing things out of spite to my dad since I found out I was moving to Texas. Remember that t-shirt they sent us when we committed to Baylor?" When he nodded, I kept going. "I wore that every night before I left to show him he had no more say in my life. Feeling like I had to spite him gave him as much control as caving in. I didn't realize that until you." I admitted.

"What do you mean? Part of being with me is to spite him?" Trevor asked.

"No Trevor. I don't have to prove anything to anyone. I know my dad loves me and wants the best for me: You give me that. It's the same with your mom, she'll come around. She has to. All we have to do is be happy and live our life." I assured him.

"It's that simple?" Trevor said, stroking my hair.

"If I make you happy, then yes." I nodded, looking into his eyes.

He gave me the first real, genuine smile since Mother's Day. "You do. I can't wait to make you my wife."

"Well, you're going to have to. The next proposal better have a ring and a little more creativity." I teased him.

"I already told you how I was going to propose, remember? When we decorated your brother's place for his proposal?" He chuckled.

I thought about it, then pushed him back on the bed. "You better not. I told you I would kill you if you did that to me!"

"You would say yes first right?" He grinned, running his fingers through my hair, resting them on the back of my neck to pull my face close to his.

"Yes." I breathed against his lips.

"Then I'll die the happiest man in the world." He smiled before kissing me.

Mama, I'm Coming Home

"Times have changed and times are strange
Here I come, but I ain't the same
Mama, I'm coming home
Times gone by, seems to be
You could have been a better friend to me
Mama, I'm coming home
You took me in and you drove me out
Yeah, you had me hypnotized
Lost and found and turned around
By the fire in your eyes
You made me cry, you told me lies
But, I can't stand to say goodbye
Mama, I'm coming home
I could be right, I could be wrong
It hurts so bad, it's been so long
Mama, I'm coming home

home" Mama, I'm coming home by Ozzy Osbourne 

After I dropped off my employee handbook to Nathaniel, I went home and got dressed to go shopping with Amber. We went to the mall and shopped around, looking for gifts for her mom, mother in law and Trevor’s mom and granny. Once we finally secured the gifts, I wished her a happy mother's day and went home.

Saturday, I was supposed to join Corey and Sammy at EJ’s soccer game, but it got rained out. I spent the day at home updating my resume and sending inquiries about jobs to a few people I went to graduate school with. On Friday, Nathaniel emailed me the formal grievance. Reading through it made it real for me. It also made me realize how much I didn’t want to go back to the clinic, so I needed to start looking for a new job.

I took a break around 2, when Trevor came over. He spent the morning working on the website and his coding videos. When he was done working, he kept distracting me with Vine videos. I instructed him to do something more productive with his time: like look up places to live.

The next time he distracted me was to show me a picture of a huge pool in a backyard home in Plano.

"Do we want a house?” I asked.

“Why not?”

“Are we ready for that commitment?”

“Of course I am. If you have doubts about us-“

“I don’t!” I stopped him. “I meant a house is permanent. We’re not just committing to each other, but to a location, our jobs, and a house. ”

“Oh...”

“I don’t have doubts about us. It's just hard for me to think about it when I don't have a job. I would love to live with you in a house.” I explained.

“With a mouse?” He smiled

“Yes.” I smiled too.

“In a box? With a fox?”

I laughed. “Yes, in a boat, with a goat. On a train, in the rain. In a tree, now let me be!”

Trevor laughed too. “We have time; let's just keep our options open."

"My lease is up at the end of June, we don't have time."

"Mine is up in August."

"Oh, so we get to stay at your place? With your rules?"

Trevor smiled. "Temporarily until you have a job and we find our place: whether it's an apartment or a house."

"Ok." I agreed. "I guess there's no harm in looking at houses."

"Exactly. Justine needs a backyard.”

I grinned. “Yeah, she does, but if I get kitchen duties, you get backyard duties.”

"Ha. Duties. Poop.” Trevor joked.

“You’re so lame.”

“You want to live with me, what does that make you?”

“Generous.” I replied.

We spent the rest of the day looking at realtor website and houses. Nothing specific considering we didn’t know our price range; just things that we liked. Like the fact that I wanted one story and he wanted a pool. Or I preferred an open floor plan, and he preferred a below the ground pool. I thought at least 3 bedrooms would be nice and he thought at least 6ft of water in the pool would be nice. I knew we would have to get serious about it soon, but it was fun to imagine our house and life together.



We were planning to drive to Wichita Falls that night so we didn’t have to wake up early Sunday, but they were under a tornado watch and I did not want to risk it. I promised to drive if we left early in the morning, so we did.  I played my Mother’s day playlist, featuring the classics “Stacy’s Mom” and “Mother Lover". Trevor stayed up and sang with me. I sang Justin Timberlake and Trevor was Andy Samberg. When "Mama Said Knock You Out" came on, Trevor shook his head at me.

“Why is your playlist so dark?”

I gave him a look, temporarily taking my eyes off the road.

“Really? What else would it be, considering the relationship I have with my mom?” I asked.

“You don't have a relationship cause you refuse to find her.” Trevor answered.

"Yeah, well I know enough to know it wouldn't be good."

"That's not fair. I might not be bad."

“I doubt it.” I sighed, but changed the song. “This is the relationship I hoped for.” I admitted, playing Spice Girls “Mama”.

Trevor rested his hand on my leg as we drove, stroking comfortingly.



We arrived at Trevor’s mom’s house around 9am. The only bad weather we ran into was rain. I woke Trevor up and we made our way into his childhood home. It was quiet, so we crept into Trevor’s old room.

“This is where the magic happened.” he said, letting me into his room.

“Lies! Your Uncle already told me about you. The only magic you had was online.”

“He doesn’t know what he's talking about.”

I smirked as I looked over his room. His room consisted of a twin bed, his computer, games and gadgets on a desk against the wall, and an entertainment center that held a TV. It was pretty plain, but I expected that from Trevor. He wasn't a bells and whistles kind of guy. He was a minimalist aka lazy. “No girl ever gave you any in this room.”

“You’re about to…” He smiled, coming closer to me.

“No Trevor!” I warded him off. I giggled as he tackled me to the bed.

“Get off of me.’ I shrieked, but then remembered to keep my voice down. “Now, or I will-“

“You’ll what?" He said, cutting me off and tickling my sides. I busted out laughing, trying to get out of his embrace.

“Stop!” I laughed, bucking against him.

"Never!" He said, tickling me harder. I couldn't stop the laughter as it erupted between us. I tried to squirm away, but he followed, laughing just as hard as me.

"Please!" I begged, gasping for air. He stopped tickling and laid beside me. He pulled me into his arms and was moving his lips to mine when his bedroom door opened.

"Trevor?" His mom said, from the doorway. Trevor quickly pulled away from me, smiling.

"Hey mom. Happy Mother's Day," he greeted her warmly, giving her a hug. I stood up quickly and straightened out my clothes and hair.

When they broke apart, I smiled at Trevor's mom.

"Happy Mother's day Mrs. Tobin."

"Thank you Lily. I didn't know you would be joining us." Mrs. Tobin said giving me a small smile.

"Apparently, I'm a surprise." I said, looking over at Trevor.

"A welcomed surprised." Trevor smiled at me.

"I'm going to go get ready for brunch. You two should do the same. You know how your granny is." Trevor's mom finished, giving Trevor another hug before leaving us.

As we changed, Trevor asked, "Why do you still call my mom Mrs. Tobin?"

"'Cause she never told me to call her anything else." I said, as I played with my hair in the mirror.

Trevor came behind me wrapping his arms around me, looking me over in my floral dress.

"You look amazing." He said, kissing my cheek.

"Then I'm ready to go." I said, with a smile.

We were in the kitchen waiting for Trevor's mom. I was trying to explain what a breakfast nook is to him.

"At Rocky's house, that little corner in the kitchen with the small table? That's a breakfast nook." I explained

"If my mom put a table right here-"

"No! It's not a nook!" I cut him off.

"I don't get it." He shook his head.

"Get what?" Mrs. Tobin said, joining us.

"You look great mom." Trevor complimented her.

"Thank you."

"I'm trying to explain to him the concept of a breakfast nook." I smiled.

"What for?" Mrs. Tobin asked.

"Apparently, Lily needs one in our house." Trevor told her.

"A house?" Mrs. Tobin, exclaimed.

"Yeah, we're looking at buying a house together." Trevor told her, proudly.

"We're thinking about it." I added quickly, giving Trevor another look. It was bad enough he didn't tell her I was coming, now he was springing on her we may be buying a house? He really didn't think things through. At all.

"Well, hopefully y'all have plenty of time to think that over. Let's go." Mrs. Tobin said, chirpily.

We all got into Trevor's car to go to brunch. I sat in the backseat and gave them time to chat. When we got to the restaurant, we were the first ones there. We got a table for 9 and sat down. We ordered coffee and water before Helen, Trevor's granny, 2 of her daughter's Cathleen and Barbara, and their kids Lisa, Reese and Elizabeth showed up. It was tradition that the adults went to brunch before separating and having plans with immediate family.

I felt a little out of place because no one else's significant other was there, but Lisa smiled at me.

"They're at home with the kids. It's Mother's Day, meaning we get the morning off." Lisa explained.

"I like that tradition." I smiled back.

"You would." Trevor teased. We looked over the menu and I asked Trevor what he recommended.

"You've never been to Cracker Barrel?" Barbara asked me.

"No, this is my first time." I said.

"I'm sure they don't have them where she's from." Mrs. Tobin commented.

"They're everywhere." Helen disagreed.

"I've never seen one in California, but I see them all the time in Dallas. Trevor's just never taken me." I answered, diplomatically.

"Every time we went out to eat growing up was at Cracker Barrel." Trevor stated.

"So you've outgrown Cracker Barrel huh? Too big for your britches?" Helen said, disapprovingly.

"No, just when you ordered everything twice, it's time to try something new." Trevor joked.

The waitress came back and took everyone's order. When the menus were cleared, Trevor pulled out the gifts and handed them to his mom and granny. "It's from Lily and me."

His mom opened hers first to reveal a wooden jewelry box. Inside, was an earring and necklace set that Trevor normally bought his mom.

"Thank you son. This is beautiful." Mrs. Tobin gushed.

"Thank Lily too. She picked it out." Trevor smiled.

"Thank you Lily." She said, closing the jewelry box.

"You're welcome."

Helen opened her bag and pulled out the cardigan I picked out like Trevor instructed. Then, she pulled out the throw blanket I picked out myself. Stitched in the corner was the green Tobin crest she had displayed in the front walkway of her home.

She ran her fingers over it and looked at me in surprised. "You made this?" She asked.

"No, I can't sew at all. I found someone who stitched it on for me." I admitted.

"I know you picked this out. Trevor been buying me sweaters since they stopped making him make noodle art in school." Helen remarked while we laughed.

"Hey!" Trevor butted in. "You said you loved my sweaters."

"Not much thought behind it." Helen quipped. She turned back to me. "That crest was one of the few things I took from our home. My husband was so proud of it and the Tobin name. Every time I look at it, I think of him. Thank you for that."

 "My pleasure."

"Trevor, did you tell granny your news?" Mrs. Tobin asked.

"What news?" He asked.

"About buying a house. In Dallas. With Lily." Mrs. Tobin announced.

The food was brought out before Helen could react. The shock was apparent on her face. I stared down at my coffee until Trevor grabbed my hand, reassuringly on top of the table.

"We're looking. As soon as I can figure out what a breakfast nook is and why Lily needs one, we might actually buy." Trevor said lightly.

"Doesn't Uncle Jimmy's house have one? I always thought it was a great place to raise a family." Lisa smiled.

Mrs. Tobin gave a little laugh. "I'm sure Lily doesn't want to live in the country."

I looked at Trevor, speechless. I didn't know what to say. Did he want to live in that house?

"In my day, you didn't move in until you were married but I'm happy that you're settling down. Wherever that may be." Helen told Trevor.

I nodded and we began eating.

"Once y'all get settled in, you can get me the coconut cake recipe. I'm still waiting on it." She informed me.

"What? I sent it to Mrs. Tobin." I said, turning to Trevor's mom.

"I didn't receive it." She bristled.

"I'll get it to you as soon as possible." I promised, apologetically.

We finished eating brunch and headed back to Trevor's mom place. We watched classic movies, like the kind that came on TCM. I felt like a complete intruder as they watched and laughed at movies they've obviously seen plenty of times, but I was so glad Trevor included me. The last movie we watched together was called "The Apartment". It ended with the main character confessing his love to a girl and she told him to shut up and deal.

When the movie was over, Trevor turned to me. "That's one of my mom's favorite movie. Probably why I fell for you, you tell me to shut up all the time."

"Shut up Trevor." I said, with a smile.

"I love you too darling."

"Ready for dinner?" Mrs. Tobin asked us.

Trevor nodded and I stood up too. Mrs. Tobin went to her room to get ready. I headed to Trevor's bedroom to do the same, but stopped.

"Can you log on to the computer so I can print out that recipe for your granny?" I asked.

"I'll do it. Just resend the email." Trevor offered.

"Thank you."

I was working on my make-up when Trevor joined me.

"Lily, do you mind if I take my mom out tonight? Alone?" He asked.

"No, not at all." I said, putting my make-up away.

"I just need to talk to her-"

I stopped him. "Babe, you don't need to explain anything. I completely understand. It's mother's day. Spend some time with your mom."

Trevor leaned in close and gave me a kiss. "I love you Lilypad."

"I love you too T-Rev."

They left for dinner and I ordered a pizza. While I was waiting, I posted a Mother's Day status on Facebook. I posted the video for MotherLover and captioned it:

Happy Mother's Day everyone! #MotherLover #EveryMother'sDayNeedsAMother'sNight! #ImmaBeTheSyrupYouCanBeMyWaffle

I watched Casablanca when the pizza arrived. I barely made it halfway through when Trevor returned to his room.

"That was quick." I commented, searching for my phone to see what time it was.

"Yeah, I have to work tomorrow remember?" He said, shortly.

I got up quickly. "That's right. Sorry." I said, getting ready to go.

We left without saying goodbye. When I asked Trevor about it, he said his mom went to bed. I had a sickening feeling in my stomach that something was wrong. Trevor tried to hide it, but I could feel it.

I pushed it away and followed him to the car. He sped all the way home. His quietness just confirmed my thoughts. I used the drive to finish watching Casablanca and to give Trevor some time. When we got to Trevor's apartment, Trevor went straight to bed.

I took Justine outside and fed her before joining him. He watched me intensely as I joined him.

"Are you ok?" I asked him, as I laid beside him.

"I'm fine." He said, unconvincingly as he pulled me in his arms. He kissed me deeply, his normally soft lips forced my lips apart roughly as he pressed against me.

"Trevor-" I moaned, breaking away to catch my breath.

"I love you-" He started, stroking my hair. "I want you so much. I need to be inside you."

I nodded my consent before kissing him again. He rolled on top of me and made quick work of removing my clothes as his lips and hands explored me everywhere. He pinned me down as he made love to me. I didn't try to break his hold. His aggressiveness surprised me, but I never felt trapped or afraid.

Afterwards, he leaned his sweaty forehead against mine and brushed his lips over my face.

"I'm committed to Dallas, my job, and you. I'm ready to buy a house and start a family. Let's get married." Trevor said softly.

I stared at him, stunned silent.