MasukI turned around quickly and there he was, lazily swirling the glass in his hand, his hair was slightly messy like he had run his hands through it countless times, sleeves rolled to his forearm, buttons slightly undone revealing his collarbone and chest. My breath hitched as I gawked at him hungrily. Almost like he noticed, he smirked.“I’m glad you’re enjoying the view, Trouble. Come on.”Before I could protest, he grabbed my wrist and hauled me further inside. He found a spot, further away from the chaos happening on the main floor, more quieter. As we settled down on the couch, I felt hot almost immediately. I don’t know if it was because it was crowded or maybe because he was this close to me and my body was acting up. I reached for the glass in his hands and downed the content in one gulp.“Woooo… easy there. This might be a party but it doesn’t mean I want you passing out on me,” he said, leaning in, smiling.I rolled my eyes at him, not wanting him to see how affected I was by h
Emily’s POVI should never have indulged him. Heck, I should have insisted I wasn’t going to attend his stupid party. Maybe he would have given up and let me be, but I didn’t. Maybe because a part of me already knew Noah wouldn’t give up. He was as stubborn as a mule, especially when he wanted something done or when he’s trying to prove a point. So when he brought up the party thingy, I knew it was a bad idea for so many obvious reasons, but at the same time, I wanted to experience it for myself. Especially since Noah Jordan has been known to throw the best ragers and parties since high school.Eventually, after giving it much thought, I decided it’s best to get this over and done with. So I sent him a text. “I’m in. Let’s just hope I don’t regret it.” His reply came almost immediately, like he had been waiting for it all. “Don’t worry, trouble. I’ll make sure you have a blast.” After going through my wardrobe and seeing that I had nothing befitting to wear, I reached out to my
Noah’s POV “Nothing’s going on here. Noah was just being a jerk as always.” Emily quickly responded, eyes flickering to Mike before landing on mine. Then she freed herself from my grip and headed to the door. “Don’t waste my time, dude. Let’s go. Mike held my gaze for a while, like he was enjoying the drama between us before he eventually chuckled. “You know one day, she is really gonna kill you, especially if you keep getting on her nerves like that,” he said, eyes darting around the living room like he was looking for something. “Yeah well, I’d love to see her try. But I mean it’s fun and it never gets old. One would think after all this time, that she wouldn’t get all riled up whenever I get on her nerves, but she still does. I guess some things never change.” Mike’s eyes landed on mine, as he shook his head. “Ha ha… keep being cocky,” he said sarcastically before heading into the kitchen. “Just don’t piss her off so much otherwise I’m not even going to try and interfere whe
I tossed and turned all night, and my heart kept doing stupid flips as I recalled the kiss. I didn’t hate it. I just wasn’t expecting it, and I regretted slapping him as soon as I got into the house. But can you blame me? I knew better than to get involved with guys like him. Guys like him who could have any girl they wanted. He has always been popular amongst the girls back in high school, captain of the basketball and track team, top of his class, avid party goer, the list goes on and on. While I, on the other hand, just existed in the background as the sister of his best friend. I knew this wouldn’t go away, so I figured the best way to handle it was to avoid him for the meantime. And that’s what I've been doing for almost a week.“Emily, you’re not staying home today. You need to help out at the restaurant. I’ve got something important to attend to, so I can’t be there.” Mike called out, walking into the living room.“I don’t feel good, Mike. I already told you. Plus, Mum and Dad
Emily’s POV The goal was simple. Graduate high school. Get into my dream college. Get a good job, settle down with the love of my life, have beautiful kids and live happily ever after. But I never knew life had other plans for me. My family restaurant burned down a year ago, and it became a hassle. I had to work side jobs, to try and sort out some bills in college, although my brother supported too, it barely sufficed. Now I’m back home for the holidays, and as it so happens, today is the official reopening of the restaurant. I’ve been so busy all morning that my legs are now aching. The doorbell rang as a voice drifted through the air. “Good morning, Mrs. Duncan. You look astonishing as always.” “Oh Noah, you’re such a sweetheart. Thank you.” My mum’s voice came through, chuckling. I recognized that voice. It was one I had heard for most part of my life. One that always managed to get under my skin at any given chance. Noah Jordan. My brother’s best friend, and my personal
I arrived at Damian’s home at 7 p.m. that evening, a bottle of rosé cradled in my hand. Valerie shrieked the second she opened the door, pulling me into a tight hug. “Girl, it’s been forever. I missed you so much,” she said, her warm breath brushing against my neck. I chuckled, easing back so her face came into full view. “I missed you too, Val. Sorry I haven’t come around. It’s been crazy since I got back.” She nodded, tucking my hair behind my ears. “Yeah, I get it. My dad told me about your engagement. He’s an asshole, Ava. You deserve better.” I smiled softly. “Yeah, I know. But no need crying over spilled milk. Here. A little peace offering.” I handed her the bottle and watched her eyes sparkle. “Apology accepted. Well, make yourself comfortable. I’ll be right back.” As she left I decided to check out the house. Not much had changed since the last time I was here. It was safe to say this place had always been my second home, especially when my dad was away. “Valerie







