Chapter One
I slowly walked down the hallway taking it all in. Everything was new to me. The building was unfamiliar and so were the faces. It was only the first day of school but I already hated it here. I missed life in New York. I miss taking the subway to get to my school and the chaos of the people in the city who were always in a hurry to get to work. I missed my school, cheerleading, the dance team, and my star athlete boyfriend. Well now he was my ex boyfriend, since I was moving to Tennessee. Braden, Tennessee to be exact. Population? 282. Well now, 285 with me, my mom, and my dad. This was definitely a huge step down from New York. There was about 4000 kids in my high school alone! In Braden, there was only 100 kids in the high school. I carefully looked at each door in hopes of finding the one that said ‘Guidance’ on it. Finally, I found it. I walked in and was greeted by a woman sitting at a desk. “May I help you?” She asked in a sweet tone. My mother always told me if you wanted to get by in life, you had to be polite. Following her little rule, I put on my best smile and replied “Yes ma’am. My name is Miley Cyrus. Today’s my first day.” Without another word, the woman spun her rolling chair around and was now facing the computer. She clicked away at some keys and I heard a printer start. She got up from the chair and I’m assuming went to the room where the printer was. Seconds later, she returned from the back room with pieces of paper in her hand. “Alright Miss Cyrus, here’s your schedule and your locker number and combination. Your homeroom is 325. All you have to do to get there is go down the hall, and it’s the fourth door on your right. This school’s pretty easy to get around but if you need any help, just ask a teacher or a student.” Said the woman. I thanked her for her help and walked out the door. “Down the hall, fourth door on the left.” I slowly repeated to myself. I looked down at my schedule and started to see what classes I would have.
First - Honors French 4. 168 - L. Williams.
Second - AP Calculus. 456 - R. Hope.
Third - Study Hall (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) Lab (Tuesday,
Thursday)
Fourth - Honors Chemistry - B. Meyers
Fifth - Lunch
Sixth - AP Journalism. 222 - K. Jones.
Seventh - AP US History. 225 - S. Smith
She smiled when she saw what classes she was given. Sure, at her old school she was athletic, dating a star athlete and was the most popular girl in the school in her Freshmen to Sophomore years there but that didn’t mean she couldn’t be smart. Miley was just one of those people who was good at everything which was sometimes more trouble that it was worth. There were times when she would stay after helping kid’s with math so that she wouldn’t have enough time to practice dance moves or cheers to show the girls on the dance team and cheer squad. When this happened, she had to work twice as hard on that to make sure the dances and cheers were perfect. She would spend so much time doing that that she wouldn’t have any time to do her homework. That mean she had to stay up until who knows when to make sure her homework was done so she would pass her classes making sure her GPA wouldn’t slip which would help her stay on the cheerleading squad and dance team which would allow her to keep her popularity which allowed her to keep her boyfriend. Her life was complicated. It seemed like she had it all together and that things should just be a breeze to her but the truth is, she worked her ass off to get where she was in New York. As much as she hated to admit it, maybe moving to Braden wasn’t such a bad thing after all. No one here knew who she was. It was a perfect time to reinvent herself, she thought. Miley was so focused on her schedule that she didn’t realize she had walked past her classroom. She turned around and stopped when she saw 325 on the door. She walked inside and took a seat in the front. That was always where she liked sitting. She was able to see and hear everything clearly and take the best notes. If she sat anywhere else, she would easily get distracted. Miley sat patiently and waited for the 7:45 bell to ring, signaling the start of her new life.
First - Honors French 4. 168 - L. Williams.
Second - AP Calculus. 456 - R. Hope.
Third - Study Hall (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) Lab (Tuesday,
Thursday)
Fourth - Honors Chemistry - B. Meyers
Fifth - Lunch
Sixth - AP Journalism. 222 - K. Jones.
Seventh - AP US History. 225 - S. Smith
She smiled when she saw what classes she was given. Sure, at her old school she was athletic, dating a star athlete and was the most popular girl in the school in her Freshmen to Sophomore years there but that didn’t mean she couldn’t be smart. Miley was just one of those people who was good at everything which was sometimes more trouble that it was worth. There were times when she would stay after helping kid’s with math so that she wouldn’t have enough time to practice dance moves or cheers to show the girls on the dance team and cheer squad. When this happened, she had to work twice as hard on that to make sure the dances and cheers were perfect. She would spend so much time doing that that she wouldn’t have any time to do her homework. That mean she had to stay up until who knows when to make sure her homework was done so she would pass her classes making sure her GPA wouldn’t slip which would help her stay on the cheerleading squad and dance team which would allow her to keep her popularity which allowed her to keep her boyfriend. Her life was complicated. It seemed like she had it all together and that things should just be a breeze to her but the truth is, she worked her ass off to get where she was in New York. As much as she hated to admit it, maybe moving to Braden wasn’t such a bad thing after all. No one here knew who she was. It was a perfect time to reinvent herself, she thought. Miley was so focused on her schedule that she didn’t realize she had walked past her classroom. She turned around and stopped when she saw 325 on the door. She walked inside and took a seat in the front. That was always where she liked sitting. She was able to see and hear everything clearly and take the best notes. If she sat anywhere else, she would easily get distracted. Miley sat patiently and waited for the 7:45 bell to ring, signaling the start of her new life.
Chapter Two
Miley was so deep in thought about what her new school would be like that she didn’t realize someone had taken a seat next to her. She heard someone clear their throat and looked over to see a girl with long dark black hair and dark makeup. Normally, it would look scary but this girl managed to pull it off. Miley turned and faced the girl. “Hi, I’m Demi. You must be the new girl, Miley, right?” The girl asked. Miley was so confused, how did people know her name? “Um, yeah, that’s me. How’d you know my name?” Miley asked. “It’s not like there’s very many people in this town, let alone this school. Word travels fast. It doesn’t even take one period for a rumor to go around.” The Demi girl said. Miley nodded her head. “Lemme see your schedule?” Demi asked. Without a word, Miley reached into her tote bag and pulled out the piece of paper she received not to long ago. Demi’s eyes skimmed over the paper and she made little “mhm” sounds here and there. After she stopped reading, she looked up at Miley and said “We have French together next period, lunch, and History!” Demi said clapping her hands to show her excitement. That freaked Miley out a little but she didn’t want to be rude so she clapped along as well. “Yay.” Miley said trying her best to sound excited. The first couple of periods flew by faster than Miley thought they would. It was now 12:00 which meant it was time for lunch. As much as she hated to admit it, Miley was excited. At her old school, she was the role model of being healthy which meant she didn’t ever eat lunch there because God forbid if she did, it was a crime. Now Miley could be whoever she wanted and eat whatever she wanted. Miley slowly walked into the tiny cafeteria. She was shocked at how small it was. Since there was only two lunch periods, the café needed to hold about 50 people at a time. Once Miley walked in, she felt all eyes on her. She looked around figuring out what was where and tried to find a good place to sit. She found an empty table and was about to go sit there when she heard a voice call her name. “Miley, Miles! Over here.” Miley followed the voice and saw Demi sitting there waving her arms in hopes of getting Miley’s attention. Miley smiled and walked over to her. “Hi Demi.” Miley said, relieved she had a place to sit. “Hey Miles. These are my friends, Justin, David, Ashley, Taylor, and Taylor.” Miley said pointing to each person as she said their name. I nodded in acknowledgement at each one. “Hey, I’ll be right back, I’m gonna go get some lunch.” I said. “Ok.” Demi said. On my way up to the lunch line, I saw the empty table I was originally planning on sitting at was now filled by some guy in a beat up motorcycle jacket. I tried not to be too obvious in watching him but apparently I wasn’t any good at that because he suddenly looked up at me. And when he did, I almost fainted at the sight before me.
Chapter Three
It wasn’t. No it couldn’t be. I blinked my eyes a few times in hopes that when I opened them, he would be gone. I slowly opened my ocean blue eyes to see he was not there anymore. Phew, it must have just been my imagination, I thought to myself. I got in line, ordered my food, and was about to walk back to my table when I felt a pair of hands grab me. I dropped my lunch in shock. Oh fuck, I though. I’ve been here for not even one day and I’m about to be attacked. This is the end of me. I’m gonna die. Or get raped. Either one is pretty bad. I was now inside a dark closet which smelled like cleaning supplies. Ew, it’s not bad enough I’m gonna be attacked, it has to be done in a room that smells like Clorox. Focus Miley, everything’s gonna be ok. Maybe it’s nothing. I’m probably just overreacting. Yeah, that’s it. Suddenly, the light in the closet turned on, allowing me to see who was behind all this. My eyes met with his, light brown ones. His hair was now short, providing a sexy/edgier look. His face was a little scruffy which I found extremely sexy. I wanted to jump on him and shove my tongue down his throat right then and there. Then, I remembered what happened between “us” and I slowly stepped back. “Hello Miley.” He said. “H-h-hi Joe,” I said, nervous about what was gonna happen next. I tried to get to the door without being noticed but apparently wasn’t too good at that. Joe lunged forward and slammed the door shut. Our bodies were now pressed against each others. I missed being this close to him. Feeling his breath on my face. Feeling his lips on mine. Always feeling safe when I was around him. But that was before. Before he just left me one day without saying a word. Not returning a single one of my phone calls. I got angry at the thoughts of all the nights I spent waiting by the phone. Hoping he would return or at least give me a call and let me know what the fuck was going on. But apparently he didn’t care about me or how heartbroken I was. He didn’t care about the harm I did to myself because of him. My wrist filled with scars, each telling its own story. Or how I would not eat in an attempt to be skinnier and therefore prettier in hopes of him returning. I was hospitalized because of him. While I was there, I had to attend therapy. Each session, I would talk about him. The therapist wanted me to talk about other things but I refused. So we talked about him until I was released. I was finally starting to get my mind off of him but now here we were, together, alone, in a closet. “How have you been, Miley?” Joe asked as he gently put my face in his hands. “F-f-f-fine.” I said, stuttering out of nervousness. I made every attempt I could to avoid eye contact. “Please, Miley, look at me.” Joe begged me. “Why should I?” I said in a cold tone. “Come on Miley, I know I left but that was three years ago. You had to have moved on by now!” Joe said, anger in his voice. “Joseph, I loved you. I wanted to be with you forever. I thought you loved me and wanted to be with me too but I guess I was wrong, as usual. I waited months for you to call or return. And when you didn’t, I turned to self harm which resulted in me being hospitalized.” I yelled. “Hospitalized?” Joe asked, sounding sad. “Yes, fucking hospitalized, Joseph! And it’s all because of you. I hurt myself because I thought it would bring you back to me but I was wrong.” I continued yelling. “Why didn’t you call? Was it so hard for you to pick up a phone and tell me what the hell was going on?!” I couldn’t talk anymore. I just stared at him. There was a look of hatred in my eyes. “Miley” Joe said softly. “Save it Joe. You caused me enough pain. I’m not letting you back into my life so you can lead me on again and then break my heart.” I said before storming out of the closet leaving a shocked, hurt, and confused Joe behind.
Chapter Four
I sprinted down the hallway not knowing where I was going but I didn’t care. I just wanted to be away from HIM.. After a few minutes of running, I got tired and decided that I was now far away enough to be able to stop without having to worry about Joe catching up to me. I sat down against a bunch of yellow, rusty lockers and let the tears that had been forming in my eyes come streaming down my face. It was my first day here and I looked like shit and was crying in an abandoned hallway but I could care less at this point. I was heartbroken. I put my head in my hands and just cried. I stayed like this for about a minute until I heard footsteps coming in that hallway. I didn’t bother looking up. Whoever it was, they were gonna see me cry and that was that. I felt the presence of someone next to me. I was curious to know who it was, so I looked up. It was Joe. I looked back down and continued crying. Without a word, Joe sat down next to me, pulled me in for a hug, and just rubbed my back while I cried. Normally, I would have pushed him away but I loved the feeling of being in his arms so I let him hold me…for now. I kept crying and Joe leaned in and whispered in my ear “I’m sorry Miley. I know what I did was wrong and if I could go back in time and take it back, I would. Ever since I left, I thought about you. If I had a dollar for every time I thought about you, I’d have a dollar because you never left my mind.” Joe said with a stupid smile on his face. He knew whenever he smiled, it was impossible to be mad at him. I looked in his eyes and I swear, he was sincere. “People make mistakes everyday and some are never willing to admit to them but if you were willing to admit all that you just said, you deserve a second chance. But if you blow this chance, I’m gone forever Joe.” I said with a stern tone. “I promise, breaking your heart the first time was the hardest thing I ever had to do. I regret it so much.” Joe said, now looking down. “Hey, look at me.” I said. When Joe didn’t look up, I gently placed my finger under his chin and slowly moved his face so he was now looking at me. “Like I said, everyone makes mistakes. I forgive you and I’m moving on. It might take some time to totally move on but it doesn’t mean we can’t try. Let’s just live in the moment and enjoy what’s in front of us.” I said smiling. Joe smiled too and then, as an instant reaction, we both leaned in. Our lips were a second away from touching when we heard someone clearing their throat. We looked to see who it was and Joe almost froze.
Chapter Five
I looked from Joe to the person who was now standing before us. It was Demi. “What the hell is going on here!? Miley, what are you doing with HIM!?” She yelled, with clear disgust on the word ‘him.’ “What do you mean ‘him?” Joe asked, curious to know. “I mean the disgusting creature sitting in front of her. Are you that stupid to realize I’m talking about you?” Demi said, sarcastic as ever. “I wasn’t so disgusting when you tried to get with me at Mandy’s party.” Joe fired back. I just sat there in shock at what was going down before my very eyes. My new friend and my old friend/friend with benefits/boyfriend were fighting and I had absolutely no idea why. I decided I needed to figure out what was happening. “Woah, confused new girl here. Anyone care to fill me in on why you two look like you’re about to kill each other.” I asked. “Stay out of this Miley!” Joe and Demi both yelled at me temporarily looking away from each other to look at me. “Whatever. I’m out of here.” I said before getting up and attempting to walk down the hallway back to the cafeteria. “Now look what you did!” They both yelled in unison. “Me!? What are you talking about? It was you. Stop that! No, you stop that. Ugh!” They yelled once again in unison. I had no idea what was going on or why they hated each other but if they wanted me to stay out of it, I would do just that. I walked back into the cafeteria and saw the table where I was originally supposed to sit. It didn’t feel right eating with Demi’s friends without Demi being there so I attempted to find a new table. I looked around and saw a curly haired boy wearing a light blue plaid shirt. He was sitting with a girl who had straight black hair. They were talking and laughing. It looked like they were having a really good time. I missed when I used to have those moments with my friends. I felt upset when I thought about all the friends I had to leave behind when I moved. These two people looked very friendly, I thought to myself. Maybe I can go over there and try to befriend them. I straightened my posture, put on my best smile and walked over to them. The curly haired boy must have said something funny because the girl was now almost in tears from laughing so hard. “Hey, um, excuse me?” I said quietly. The girl stopped laughing and both looked up at me. “Is this seat taken?” I asked, trying not to sound shy or nervous. The boy shook his head and moved his backpack off of the seat signaling for me to sit down. “Hi, I’m Miley. I’m new here.” I said smiling. “I’m Nick. This is my little sister Selena.” The curly haired boy said. I nodded my head. “It’s nice to meet you both.” “It’s nice to meet you too.” Selena said. “So Miley, what grade are you in?” Nick asked me. “11th.” I replied. “Me too!” Selena said, getting excited. “What about you, Nick?” I asked him. Stupid question, he just told me Selena was his younger sister and if she was the same grade as me, he was clearly a Senior. I felt so dumb. “12th.” Nick said giving me a cute smile. “Very cool. I’m really glad I met you two. I always wanted to have a friend that had a hot older brother so whenever I went to her house, I could go tanning on their back porch and watch as he swam. Or watch him play football, basketball, and soccer outside in the hot sun, shirtless.” I joked. Selena laughed and Nick gave me a cocky grin. “Well, I’m happy to be able to fulfill your needs.” He said before winking. I wasn’t sure if he was joking or not but a part of me was hoping he wasn’t. He was extremely cute and I wouldn’t mind seeing him doing all of those things. I blanked out just imagining Nick shirtless running around. God, that was a hot sight. I felt someone flick me. “Ow.” I said, rubbing my head. “Sorry, but you weren’t listening to me.” Selena giggled. “Sorry, I’m all ears now.” I said. “For the fifth time, I was wondering if you wanted to come over today?” Selena asked me. Wow, it was my first day and I was already being asked to hang out with someone. I eagerly nodded my head and Selena smiled. “Great! I’ll meet you outside the building at the end of the day. Nick drives us home. It’s awesome having a little chauffer.” Selena joked before reaching over the table and ruffling Nick’s hair. “Hey!” Nick said before jokingly swatting her hand away. “That is pretty awesome. On the way to your house, we should stop at a store and buy Nick a hat and everything. That way, it’s legit.” I joked. “Miley, don’t encourage her.” Nick said. I stuck my tongue out at him and he returned the gesture. I noticed Selena was staring out into the distance. “What’s up, Sel?” I asked, curious about what was wrong. Selena looked from where she was looking. “Stepbrother alert, five o’clock.” Curious to know what she was talking about, I followed Nick’s gaze to see Joe who was now walking full speed to our table. “Oh crap.” I mumbled to myself.
Chapter Six
Joe quickened his pace and reached our table in no time. “Miley can we talk?” Joe begged. I didn’t even bother to look up at him. “Why? So we can almost kiss and then be interrupted by someone who you start fighting with and then when I try to help you out and understand what’s going on, you can just push me away again? No thanks.” I said before throwing my backpack on my right arm and storming out of the cafeteria. “Miley, wait!” Selena yelled. I turned around “I need some time to cool off Sel. I’ll meet you and Nick after school and we can hang out and catch up then.” Selena nodded her head. I continued walking when finally, the bell rang. This meant lunch was over and now it was time to go to the class I was looking forward to all day, AP Journalism. I loved writing. I
loved it more than cheerleading, dancing, and sometimes even my ex boyfriend. It was something that allowed me to speak my mind without being criticized by others for what I thought. If I was having a crappy day, I could write a story about being on a warm beach in Tahiti surrounded by water and the crappiness would slowly go away. I made my way down the halls to Room 222. I was one of the first people there which meant I had my choice of seat. As usual, I picked the seat dead center in the front of the room. I reached into my backpack and was in the process of taking out a piece of paper and a pen when I felt a tap on my shoulder. I looked over to see Nick standing above me. I put my backpack on the ground and smiled at him. “Is this seat taken?” Nick asked with a cute grin on his face. I shook my head no. “Sorry our conversation got cut off earlier by my dick of a stepbrother.” Nick apologized. “It’s fine.” I said. “What did you mean when you were yelling at him? You said you two almost kissed. Didn’t you just meet?” Nick asked, confused. I let out a long sigh. “Listen, I know that’s personal so I’m not gonna force you to tell me. I just want you to know, Joe can be an ass sometimes and if you ever need someone to talk to, I’m always here to listen.” Nick said, smiling. “It’s not that I don’t trust you, it’s just I never fully got over Joe.” I said. I knew now that I said that, I would have to finish the story. Nick’s eyes grew wide at that statement. “What do you mean ‘never fully got over Joe’?” Nick asked, adding air quotes. I took in a deep breath
before continuing on. “Well…” I started.
loved it more than cheerleading, dancing, and sometimes even my ex boyfriend. It was something that allowed me to speak my mind without being criticized by others for what I thought. If I was having a crappy day, I could write a story about being on a warm beach in Tahiti surrounded by water and the crappiness would slowly go away. I made my way down the halls to Room 222. I was one of the first people there which meant I had my choice of seat. As usual, I picked the seat dead center in the front of the room. I reached into my backpack and was in the process of taking out a piece of paper and a pen when I felt a tap on my shoulder. I looked over to see Nick standing above me. I put my backpack on the ground and smiled at him. “Is this seat taken?” Nick asked with a cute grin on his face. I shook my head no. “Sorry our conversation got cut off earlier by my dick of a stepbrother.” Nick apologized. “It’s fine.” I said. “What did you mean when you were yelling at him? You said you two almost kissed. Didn’t you just meet?” Nick asked, confused. I let out a long sigh. “Listen, I know that’s personal so I’m not gonna force you to tell me. I just want you to know, Joe can be an ass sometimes and if you ever need someone to talk to, I’m always here to listen.” Nick said, smiling. “It’s not that I don’t trust you, it’s just I never fully got over Joe.” I said. I knew now that I said that, I would have to finish the story. Nick’s eyes grew wide at that statement. “What do you mean ‘never fully got over Joe’?” Nick asked, adding air quotes. I took in a deep breath
before continuing on. “Well…” I started.
Chapter Seven
“Joe and I were the best of friends since as long as I can remember. We were tight with each other. Tighter than a fat chick in a pair of skinny jeans. I told him everything and he told me everything. Except, we never mentioned the fact that we were both hardcore crushing on each other. All of our friends and family members knew and I’m pretty sure we knew it also but we were afraid to sacrifice our friendship for some stupid relationship that, in the end, may not be worth it. That worked until we got to 8th grade. We were having a school dance and I got sick a week before it. No guy wanted to ask me. They all thought I was disgusting and avoided me whenever I could. The day of the dance, I was lying in bed when I heard a knock on my door. I tried to ignore it but the speed of the knocking only increased in speed and noise level. I got up from my bed and opened my door to reveal Joe, who was looking gorgeous in a black suit, with a light blue tie, standing at my bedroom door holding a bouquet of flowers. I looked at him confused. “Miley, will you go with me to the dance?” He asked with a cute smile on his face. “I don’t know Joe. Everyone thinks I’m some disease infected weirdo. If you go with me, they might not talk to you cause they’ll think that whatever I have, you’ll get it too.” I said, looking down, embarrassed my classmates could think that way. Joe put his index finger under my chin and slowly made me look at him. “There’s nothing wrong with you. The only disease you have is you’re too beautiful. That’s why those bitchy girls started that rumor; they’re jealous of you. A beautiful girl like yourself deserves to be treated like a princess and a princess shouldn’t miss her 8th grade dance. So what do you say princess? Are you in?” Joe asked, hopeful I would say yes. I looked at him, how could I say no? I nodded my head. “YESSS!” Joe jumped up and down and pulled me into a hug. Joe went downstairs and waited for me to get ready. The dance was in two hours which meant I had to hurry. I put on a baby blue one strap dress and a pair of 2 inch black heels. I did a darker color eye makeup so I didn’t look washed out. I straightened my hair but took a curling iron to the ends so it was straight with small waves at the bottom. I looked at myself in the mirror. I was going to the dance with my best friend/crush. Things couldn’t get any better. Joe’s older brother, Kevin, took us to the dance in his hummer which made us look ten times cooler than everyone else who showed up in their mom’s mini vans. Joe got out of the car first and walked around to my side so he could open the door for me. He held his hand out which I gladly accepted. We started walking into the building when I felt his hands intertwining with mine. I immediately felt sparks which caused me to look down and blush. Joe looked down at me and smiled. “It’s gonna be ok. You look amazing.” Joe reassured me before rubbing his thumb against my hand. I nodded my head. We walked inside the gym, where the dance was being held, and all eyes turned on us. Boys’ jaws were dropping and girls’ were scoffing. It felt great to be the center of attention. After all the shit these people put my through this year, I decided I was going to milk this moment.
Chapter Eight
I put my head into the crook of Joe’s neck which caused half of the girls in the room to gasp. I knew I was making them jealous and that was amazing. But I wasn’t doing it to make them jealous. I was doing it because something inside of me was telling me to take a risk and give this a shot. I loved the feeling of Joe wrapping his arms around me. I could get used to this. We went to a table and sat down when the DJ started talking. “Alright everyone, I’m gonna slow it down a little. Grab that special someone and ask them to dance.” He said into the microphone. I noticed Joe was getting up and I couldn’t help but wonder what he was up too. He was now standing above me and I could tell he was nervous. He looked so cute when he was nervous. What am I saying? He looks cute in
everything he does. “D-do you wanna dance with me Miley?” He asked. “I’ve never wanted to do anything more.” I said back before getting to my feet and leading the way to the dance floor. The song started playing and the floor was filled with couples. I put my arms around his neck and he put his hands around my waist. I felt sparks again and I knew Joe did too. I figured if Joe had the courage to ask me to dance, he must like me like I like him. I’m gonna take a risk. I thought to myself. I closed my eyes and leaned in. Hesitantly, I put my lips against Joe’s. I got nervous when I didn’t feel him doing anything back so I almost pulled away but then I felt the most amazing thing, Joe kissing back. The moment could be anymore perfect. We were in the middle of the dance floor,
slow dancing, and kissing to what was now our song. The whole class began clapping and you could hear people saying stuff like finally, or took them long enough. It made me happy that our class had faith in us. But what made me happiest was being there with Joe. Nothing could ruin that moment. After that night, we took things slowly. We would go on casual dates during the summer and hold hands. We kissed when he would drop me off at home and again when he would pick me up for our date the following day. I guess you could say we were friends with benefits minus the sex part. Then one late June evening, we decided to go to the local fair. Joe and I went on all the rides there and decided before we went home, to go on the Ferris wheel to calm us down. We were at the top and the fireworks were going off. The moment was perfect. Joe and I simultaneously leaned in and kissed. I thought the moment we were at the dance was special but this was waaaay better than that. Joe slowly pulled away and looked into my eyes. “Will you be my girlfriend?” He asked me before leaning in again.
everything he does. “D-do you wanna dance with me Miley?” He asked. “I’ve never wanted to do anything more.” I said back before getting to my feet and leading the way to the dance floor. The song started playing and the floor was filled with couples. I put my arms around his neck and he put his hands around my waist. I felt sparks again and I knew Joe did too. I figured if Joe had the courage to ask me to dance, he must like me like I like him. I’m gonna take a risk. I thought to myself. I closed my eyes and leaned in. Hesitantly, I put my lips against Joe’s. I got nervous when I didn’t feel him doing anything back so I almost pulled away but then I felt the most amazing thing, Joe kissing back. The moment could be anymore perfect. We were in the middle of the dance floor,
slow dancing, and kissing to what was now our song. The whole class began clapping and you could hear people saying stuff like finally, or took them long enough. It made me happy that our class had faith in us. But what made me happiest was being there with Joe. Nothing could ruin that moment. After that night, we took things slowly. We would go on casual dates during the summer and hold hands. We kissed when he would drop me off at home and again when he would pick me up for our date the following day. I guess you could say we were friends with benefits minus the sex part. Then one late June evening, we decided to go to the local fair. Joe and I went on all the rides there and decided before we went home, to go on the Ferris wheel to calm us down. We were at the top and the fireworks were going off. The moment was perfect. Joe and I simultaneously leaned in and kissed. I thought the moment we were at the dance was special but this was waaaay better than that. Joe slowly pulled away and looked into my eyes. “Will you be my girlfriend?” He asked me before leaning in again.
Chapter Nine
Our lips once again connected but this time, it was a sweet simple kiss. This time, I pulled away. I looked Joe in the eyes and squealed “Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! I will be your girlfriend!!” That officially marked the beginning of our relationship. We made it all the way from summer that summer of us going into 9th grade up to the summer of us going into 10th grade. We were now in August and I noticed Joe was acting a little more strange and distant. I had no idea what it was but I really hated it. I ignored it for as long as I could and tried my best to enjoy the time we did spend together but that was still very difficult. After dealing with this for the summer, I decided to go to his house and talk to him. I walked inside and saw Joe sitting in his room playing his guitar. He heard me enter the room and placed his guitar down. “Hey baby.” He said to me before patting his lap. I walked over to him and sat down. He leaned in for a kiss which I gladly gave him. He asked me what was up and I told him nothing really but I felt like I haven’t seen him in a while and I missed him. “Aww babe.” He said before gently stroking my cheeks with his thumbs. “I’ve missed you too and I’m sorry I haven’t been around. There’s just been a lot going on and I’ve been so distracted by it.” I was gonna ask him what he meant by that but we were interrupted by someone knocking on the door. Denise, Joe’s mother, came into the room. She didn’t notice I was there or she would have said hello to me. I could tell she was distracted by the way she was looking around his room. “Joseph, you’re not packed yet!? I told you to start packing weeks ago! Our flight leaves tomorrow at 7:00 am and if your stuff isn’t packed by the time we need to talk out that door, it’s staying here.” She yelled before walking out of his room. I looked at him confused. “Joe?” I tried calling him. There was no answer. Jooe?” I tried again. Still, there was no answer. He wasn’t even looking at me. He just sat there staring at the floor. “Joseph! Answer me right now!” I demanded. Still, he refused to look at me. I hopped out of his lap. I was now furious. I was seconds away from storming out of his room. “Miley, wait.” Joe said quietly. “What do you want Joseph?” I asked clearly annoyed. “Please just give me a chance to explain.” Joe begged. “You have one chance.” I said, coldly. Joe explained to me that his father, a soldier, was being transferred to a base in Tennessee. I broke down in tears at this news. The first boy I’ve ever loved was leaving me in less than a day and he didn’t have the guts to tell me. Joe promised me he would call me every day and write me, I believed him. I crawled back into his arms and tried to enjoy the feeling of people in there for the last time in who knows how long. Things were going surprisingly ok until Joe did the most shocking thing ever. “I think it’s best if we see other people…” He said, avoiding eye contact with me.
Chapter Ten
After he said that, I jumped out of his lap and made a run for the door. He tried to call my name but I refused to stop. I needed to spend the night cooling off and then I would go back to his house tomorrow. I cried myself to sleep that night and when I woke up the following morning, I felt like shit. I didn’t bother to put on makeup. I threw on a pair of grey sweatpants and a pink tank top. I tied my hair into a messy bun and started my walk to Joe’s house. When I got there, I saw the Jonas family putting their luggage into the car and then they began getting in as well. I saw Joe walk out the front door and over to his car. I tried calling his name but he wouldn’t acknowledge me. He just got in the car and a few moments later, it drove away. He didn’t bother looking back at me. I just stood there on the sidewalk in front of his house crying and watching as his car got smaller and smaller. “That was the last time I ever saw him, until earlier today that is.” I said to Nick who just sat there in shock. All the memories of that painful event made me cry. I sat at my desk, crying. Nick moved his chair closer to me and brought me in for a hug. He rubbed my back and listened to me cry. I finally ran out of tears and looked up at Nick. “Thanks for listening to my story.” “It’s no problem Miley. Really, I love helping people.” Nick said, smiling. The bell then rang and I headed to my last period of the day, AP US History. Once again, I was one of the first people there so I had my pick of seats. The period flew by. It was basically just the teacher droning on and on about some shit we did that got us involved in a war. I went to my locker and put away the new textbooks I had received that day. I walked outside to the front of the school where I was supposed to meet Selena. I waited 10 minutes and there was still not sign of her, or Nick. Normally, I would have texted her asking what was up but then I remembered, I didn’t ask for her phone number. I found a nice bench not too far from where I was waiting and decided to sit there and pass time. I stared at the beauty around me. I’ll admit it, when I first came to Braden, I hated it. It was too small and after being there for like a week, you knew everyone. I thought I would never adjust and would always hate it but I was so wrong. Because there wasn’t a huge crowd of people, you could stop walking in the middle of a road and look around without people honking at you or telling you to hurry the fuck up. I could admire the beauty of this small town. I kinda liked it here. I was zoned out when I felt a body sit next to me. “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?”
Chapter Eleven
I groaned at the presence of the all to familiar voice. “What do you want Joseph?” I didn’t even bother looking over at him. “A chance to explain myself. All I’m asking for is 10 minutes. After that, I’ll let you decide if you want to continue talking to me or if you’d rather once again shut me out of your life.” I looked up at Joe. I could tell whatever he wanted to tell me was pretty important. But what if I decided to let him back into my life again? Would he be there for me when I needed him? Or would he lead me on into loving him and then break my heart again? I decided to give him a chance. “You have 10 minutes.” Joe smiled and leaned in to give me a hug. I pulled away from him, causing me to almost fall off the bench. Joe gave me a weird look. “I said I would give you 10 minutes. That doesn’t mean you’re automatically back in my life. Once you give me a GOOD reason as to why you left me without saying goodbye, I’ll make a decision if I still want to be friends with you and maybe even be with you later on in life.” “You’d consider getting back together with me?” Joe asked, hopeful. Oh crap, I thought to myself, did I really just say that out loud. Fuck! “If you had a good enough reason and you promised to never break my heart again, then maybe. But nothing is definite until we sit down and have a talk.” Joe let out a long and loud sigh. “Well when do you think that will be Miley?” He asked, getting angrier by the second. “I-I don’t kn-know.” I stuttered, a sign that I’m nervous. Joe quickly got up from the bench and was now towering a good 4 inches over me. “Miley, what I did was wrong and I’m sorry. I should have told you I was moving sooner but I was too scared about breaking your heart. I realize that was fucking stupid though because in the end, I only did more damage by waiting to tell you. When you stormed off on me after hearing that news, I was heartbroken but I understood why you did it. I don’t know why I ignored you the day I left but I did. Part of me hoped you would come running after me but that was too much to expect and I realize that! I watched you in the distance and saw you break down crying after we drove away. That was all it took for me to start crying as well. After that day, I became different. I pushed everyone and everything I loved away. Especially you. I didn’t call because I was afraid to hear your voice. The reason me and Demi fight all the time is because we hooked up a couple times. Nothing serious, just a fling. We were at our friend Mandy’s party and things got a little too heated. We got caught up in the moment and almost ended up having sex. I remembered the promise I made to you though. That my first time would be with you whenever you were ready. Even if it wasn’t until we were 48 and married, I would be willing to wait. Demi couldn’t accept that I was keeping my promise for someone who wanted nothing to do with me now but I refused to give in. I didn’t care if I died a virgin because it meant I took that promise to the grave with me. It may seem like I stopped caring but in reality, I never stopped. I loved you since I first laid eyes on you, I loved you then, I love you now, and I will always love you.” Joe said before letting out a breath of relief. “I won’t bother you anymore.” Joe said before turning to walk away. “Joseph, wait!” I yelled.
Chapter Twelve
He stopped walking and turned around and looked at me. I ran over to him and wrapped my arms around him. He wrapped his arms tightly around my waist. I inhaled his scent, Drakkar Noir. God, I missed that smell. Joe gently rubbed my back as I began to cry. “What’s wrong Miles?” He asked me. “I’ve missed you so much and no matter how hard I tried to get over you, I just couldn’t. When I saw you sitting at that table, I was so upset but deep down, I felt excited that I had another opportunity to get closer to you. I never stopped thinking about you either. No matter how hard I wanted to, I couldn’t. You’re a part of me Joseph and I never wanna let you go.” I said, tightening my grip on his neck. “Miles. I’m touched and all but you’re kinda choking me.” Joe joked. “Sorry!” I yelped before releasing the grip. I went to back away but Joe wouldn’t let me. “I’m not letting you go, beautiful.” Joe said before pulling me in even tighter. “You’re such a dork!” I joked before lightly slapping his chest. “Hey, I’m not a dork. I’m your dork.” Joe said. I looked up into his light brown eyes. They were hypnotizing. As if by the will of the universe, Joe and I both closed our eyes and began leaning in to each other. I felt our lips touch. Finally, after a year without feeling his lips against mine, we were reunited. “Hey Miles. Sorry I’m late. I got in trouble and that bitch of a teacher gave me a det-.” Selena was cut off when she saw me and Joe kissing. If her mouth fell any lower, I swear it would have touched the ground. Not to long after Selena appeared, Nick followed. “So what’d I miss?” Nick asked, curious after seeing me blushing, Joe with a giant smirk on his face, and Selena was still shocked. “These two were going at it like there’s no tomorrow!” Selena yelled. “Oh, really?” Nick asked. His voice sounded a little disappointed and he wasn’t looking at me anymore. Instead, his gaze was fixed upon the ground at his shoes. “Well, I’m gonna go get the car.” Nick didn’t even wait for a response from us before storming off to the parking lot. “He seemed thrilled.” Joe joked. “Shut up you insensitive jerk! Miley, I‘m sorry for cancelling our plans but Nick needs some time to cool off so would it be cool if we hung out tomorrow instead?” “Yeah, I totally understand.” I said, trying not to sound disappointed. Selena nodded her head and then ran off into the direction Nick just left in. “Awkward! Joe said. I giggled and then shot him a fake death glare. “Well now that my only friends canceled on me I guess I‘m stuck with you.” I said, trying to sound disappointed. “I know. It must be such a shame hanging out with such a hottie all afternoon and not being able to touch this.” Joe then gestured towards his body. “Conceited much?” I asked. “Baby, if you’ve got it, flaunt it.” Joe said. I burst out laughing and Joe gave me a look. “Whatever, it’s your fault I was ditched so you’re taking me somewhere so I don’t have to spend the afternoon by myself.” “Deal.” “So where are we going Joseph?” “You’ll see Miss Miley. You’ll see.” Joe said before taking my hand and leading me to his car.
Chapter Thirteen
Joe and his secret locations whenever we went on dates. Some people would find it annoying but I liked the mystery. It kept me guessing and when we arrived at the location, I was never disappointed. We always did something totally crazy and fun. Freshmen year, he took us rock climbing! I didn’t make it very far up the wall but he did and let me tell you, the view was amazing. And I’m not talking about the view from the rock wall, if you know what I mean. [; The ride to the mystery location was quiet. Not an awkward silence but a comfortable one. “So, how was life in New York?” Joe asked in an attempt to break the silence. “It was fine. I got involved in a lot of activities around school.” I said. “And according to Facebook, you got involved with the
quarterback too.” Joe muttered under his breath. “What was that?” I asked, playing dumb. “Nothing.” Joe said, very quiet. “I think somebody’s jealous!” I said in a sarcastic tone. “No, I’m not.” Joe said looking down. “Aww, is Joseph jealous cause I had a boyfriend?!” I said, in a baby voice. “Miley, stop. It’s not funny. You know how much I liked you and how much I still do. This isn’t funny.” Joe said before pulling the car into a space and storming out. Yikes, I must have gone a little too far. I knew how to make it up to him. I ran full speed ahead to catch up with him and jumped on his back. “Giddy up horsy.” I repeated over and over again while bouncing up and down on his back. Joe was getting nervous, I loved it. I leaned into his ear and whispered “And for what it’s worth you’re ten times hotter than my boyfriend. More athletic, better body, sexier, and one hell of a better kisser than he was.” I said. Joe turned his head so our faces were so close “Oh really?” He asked. He was now wearing a cocky grin on his face. I was speechless by how good looking he is. All I could bring myself to do was nod. “Well, I can’t say I’m not surprised. I mean this body is hard to beat.” He said in a cocky tone. “Joseph! When did you get so cocky?!” I was shocked in his confidence. “It’s not cocky if it’s true.” He fired back. I laughed and Joe continued walking towards the building we were going to. We walked inside and I saw we were at an arcade. “Joseph, I must say I’m impressed! We get to have some ‘FUN’ on our date.” I said making sure to add in emphasis and a wink on the word fun. Joe licked his lips, something I found irresistible on him. I jumped off his back and spun him around. We started kissing in the middle of the arcade but we didn’t care. Joe slowly pulled away and I had the biggest smile on my face. “I bet you I can get more tickets than you.” Joe whispered into my ear before running off to the machine to get us tokens so we could play games. “You’re on.” I yelled running after him. Let the games begin, literally.
quarterback too.” Joe muttered under his breath. “What was that?” I asked, playing dumb. “Nothing.” Joe said, very quiet. “I think somebody’s jealous!” I said in a sarcastic tone. “No, I’m not.” Joe said looking down. “Aww, is Joseph jealous cause I had a boyfriend?!” I said, in a baby voice. “Miley, stop. It’s not funny. You know how much I liked you and how much I still do. This isn’t funny.” Joe said before pulling the car into a space and storming out. Yikes, I must have gone a little too far. I knew how to make it up to him. I ran full speed ahead to catch up with him and jumped on his back. “Giddy up horsy.” I repeated over and over again while bouncing up and down on his back. Joe was getting nervous, I loved it. I leaned into his ear and whispered “And for what it’s worth you’re ten times hotter than my boyfriend. More athletic, better body, sexier, and one hell of a better kisser than he was.” I said. Joe turned his head so our faces were so close “Oh really?” He asked. He was now wearing a cocky grin on his face. I was speechless by how good looking he is. All I could bring myself to do was nod. “Well, I can’t say I’m not surprised. I mean this body is hard to beat.” He said in a cocky tone. “Joseph! When did you get so cocky?!” I was shocked in his confidence. “It’s not cocky if it’s true.” He fired back. I laughed and Joe continued walking towards the building we were going to. We walked inside and I saw we were at an arcade. “Joseph, I must say I’m impressed! We get to have some ‘FUN’ on our date.” I said making sure to add in emphasis and a wink on the word fun. Joe licked his lips, something I found irresistible on him. I jumped off his back and spun him around. We started kissing in the middle of the arcade but we didn’t care. Joe slowly pulled away and I had the biggest smile on my face. “I bet you I can get more tickets than you.” Joe whispered into my ear before running off to the machine to get us tokens so we could play games. “You’re on.” I yelled running after him. Let the games begin, literally.
Chapter Fourteen
After two hours, Joe was clearly in the lead but I refused to admit it. “No, come on. Let’s play one more game. After that, I promise I’ll admit defeat.” Joe reluctantly agreed mostly because he liked competing against me. Especially when he won. He felt it showed who was the stronger of us two. Joe decided on air hockey, my weakness. He knew it too which is one of the main reasons he picked it. That and he loved staring down my shirt when I would lean over the table. He was such a pervert but I loved him. We each put in two tokens and the game started. Immediately, Joe got a point. I kept thinking to myself ‘I can do this. I can do this.’ I was starting to believe it until I looked at the score Joe 5 - Miley 2. “You know, it’s common courtesy to let the girl win when the game so her self esteem isn’t killed.” I joked. It was no use, 5 points later, the game was over and Joe had won. “Let’s see that’s 400 for the little lady and 1255 for the big guy.” The employee at the prize desk said. There was barely anything I could get for 400 stupid tokens. I decided to get a stupid light up keychain. Joe was now flaunting around a giant tiger. We were gonna leave when Joe stopped walking causing me to stop too. “What’s wrong baby?” Joe asked me, concerned. “It’s gonna sound stupid but I had my heart set on winning the giant stuffed teddy bear.” I said, looking down. Joe gave me a small smile and rubbed my back. “You’re so cute. You know that right?” I just looked down and smiled. “Hey, I gotta go pee. Here’s the keys to the car go wait there and I’ll be right out.” Joe told me. I took the keys and walked out to the parking lot to row G6 where Joe’s car was. Five minutes later, I saw Joe walking back to the car. He walked over to the passenger seat and tapped on the window. I rolled down the window and asked him what he wanted. “Come out here.” He told me. Confused, I agreed. I opened the door and was now standing right in front of him. Joe pulled out something from behind his back. My mouth flew open in shock.
Chapter Fifteen
There in his hands, was the giant stuffed teddy bear I wanted. It was so cute, it was light brown and had a bow on top of her head. “Aww! It’s perfect! Thank you Joey!!!” I yelled before wrapping my arms around Joe and pulling him into a giant hug. “Look at her neck.” He whispered in my ear. I pulled away and around the bear’s neck was a silver necklace with a heart on it. Inside the heart was a pink stone. I felt tears come to my eyes. I couldn’t say anything because I was in such shock of what a cute gift I had just received. “Thank you soo much Joey.” Was all I could manage to get out. Joe pulled me in for another hug. “Anything to put that beautiful smile on your face.” He said. I felt myself blushing. Joe pulled away a little but kept his grip on my waist. He then gently pressed his forehead against mine. I could feel his breath on my face. I knew what was coming next. I closed my eyes and leaned forward, as did Joe. Our lips connected and I felt fireworks going off, literally. I pulled away at what sounded like guns going off but looked up to realize there was actually fireworks. I forgot our town did this every Friday night. I looked up at the sky and felt Joe wrap his arm around my waist. By force of habit, I rested my head into the crook of his neck. Everything felt so perfect and so right. I felt at home again. I continued watching in awe at the beauty in front of me. You could tell the grand finale was coming soon and I prepared myself for all the beautiful colors you could expect. At once, about twenty fireworks were sent into the sky and once the popped, it was the most amazing thing I had ever seen. Joe looked down at me and saw how into this I was. He smiled and kissed the side of my head. I couldn’t understand my feelings. I went from hating him, to liking him for a little while, then hating him again, then liking Nick, and now liking him again. I wasn’t sure what the hell kinda games my heart and head were playing with me but I didn’t care. I just wanted to be with Joe and that was what I planned on doing. Once the sky was clear of the beautiful fireworks, Joe and I got back into the car and he drove me to my house. The car slowly came to a halt in my driveway and Joe ran out of the car and over to my side. He opened the door for me and walked me to my front door. “I had an amazing time tonight Joe. And thank you so much for the bear and the necklace. They’re the greatest gifts I could ask for.” “Anything to make you happy Miles. Here, let me put the necklace on you.” Joe said. I nodded my head and handed him the necklace. After he put it on my neck, I looked down and smiled at how beautiful it was. Joe always had good taste in getting me gifts. It was one of the things I loved about him. “Thanks again for a great night. It was the most fun I’ve had in awhile.” I admitted. "If you thought that was fun. Wait until you see what I have planned for us tomorrow. If you wanna hang out with me, that is.” “Don’t be silly Joe. I haven’t hung out with you in a year. I’d love to hang out with you tomorrow!” I said, trying not to sound too excited but obviously failing. “Well, I’ll pick you up at 10 then. We’ve gotta get an early start. Dress casual.” Joe said. I agreed and we said our goodbyes. Joe then walked off to his car and I walked inside my house to my room, nervous but extremely excited for what tomorrow held.
Chapter Sixteen
I woke up at 8 am the next morning anxious about where Joe was taking me and what we were gonna do. Joe told me to dress casual but I wasn’t exactly sure what that meant. I went with what was my idea of casual. I wore a red with black stripes shirt which underneath it, I put a purple tank top. I wore leggings and some gladiator sandals. I completed the outfit with my green purse. I let my naturally curly hair stay curly. Overall, I would give myself an 8 out of 10. If I was going out with any other guy, this would be a 10 but this was Joe, he was different. No matter how hard I tried, I didn’t think I could be pretty enough for him. I hoped he liked this though. At exactly 10, the doorbell rang which meant Joe was here. I opened the door and was now face to face with Joe. He was wearing khaki shorts and a black t-shirt. On any other guy, it would look plain and boring but on Joe it looked totally hot. “Wow.” I accidentally blurted out which earned a sexy grin from Joe. “You like?” He winked. I nodded my head. Joe walked me to his car and opened the door for me. Once I was in, he closed the
door and walked over to his side. He got in and started driving. We talked the whole way there. I was surprised we had so much to talk about. I had no idea where we were or where we were going but I could care less. I was with Joe and that was all that mattered. I noticed we were at a stadium. “Where are we?” I asked, confused. “I remember when we were younger, you always wanted to go to a baseball game so I figured I would take you to your first professional game.” Joe said. “Ahh! You’re the best Joey!” I squealed before hugging him. “Hey, watch it, I’m driving.” Joe joked. We both busted out laughing at that comment. Joe parked the car and we made our way inside. We received the gift of the day, a blanket with the teams name and symbol on it. When we got to our seats, my jaw almost fell off. We were right above the dugout! For my first baseball game, I had some of the most amazing seats. “Close your mouth, beautiful. You don’t want anything getting in there.” Joe joked. I stuck my tongue out at him. “Very attractive Miles. All the baseball players and fans will wanna get with you after seeing that face.” He joked again. I lightly shoved him. “Is that any way to treat the man who’s making today such a special day for you? I’m offended.” Joe said placing a hand over his heart. “I sowwy Joey.” I said in a baby voice, something he couldn’t resist. We continued making small talk until the game started. I was having a great time and Joe was too. He got up and got some ice cream for us. It came in a cute little bowl that looked like a baseball hat. It was so cute. The game went on and it was getting a little cold. I started shivering which Joe noticed. He took out the blanket we had received a little earlier and placed it over the two of us. “I’m tired.” Joe said, yawning and then placing his left arm around me. “I’m sure you are.” I joked. “You know you wanted me to do that since we got here.” He joked back. Iwouldn’t admit it aloud but I really did. I took that gesture as the perfect opportunity for me to cuddle into his side. This was definitely a Kodak moment if I’d ever seen one. Apparently I wasn’t the only one who thought so because the next thing I knew, I looked up at the big screen and there was the kiss cam with me and Joe cuddled into each other on it.
door and walked over to his side. He got in and started driving. We talked the whole way there. I was surprised we had so much to talk about. I had no idea where we were or where we were going but I could care less. I was with Joe and that was all that mattered. I noticed we were at a stadium. “Where are we?” I asked, confused. “I remember when we were younger, you always wanted to go to a baseball game so I figured I would take you to your first professional game.” Joe said. “Ahh! You’re the best Joey!” I squealed before hugging him. “Hey, watch it, I’m driving.” Joe joked. We both busted out laughing at that comment. Joe parked the car and we made our way inside. We received the gift of the day, a blanket with the teams name and symbol on it. When we got to our seats, my jaw almost fell off. We were right above the dugout! For my first baseball game, I had some of the most amazing seats. “Close your mouth, beautiful. You don’t want anything getting in there.” Joe joked. I stuck my tongue out at him. “Very attractive Miles. All the baseball players and fans will wanna get with you after seeing that face.” He joked again. I lightly shoved him. “Is that any way to treat the man who’s making today such a special day for you? I’m offended.” Joe said placing a hand over his heart. “I sowwy Joey.” I said in a baby voice, something he couldn’t resist. We continued making small talk until the game started. I was having a great time and Joe was too. He got up and got some ice cream for us. It came in a cute little bowl that looked like a baseball hat. It was so cute. The game went on and it was getting a little cold. I started shivering which Joe noticed. He took out the blanket we had received a little earlier and placed it over the two of us. “I’m tired.” Joe said, yawning and then placing his left arm around me. “I’m sure you are.” I joked. “You know you wanted me to do that since we got here.” He joked back. Iwouldn’t admit it aloud but I really did. I took that gesture as the perfect opportunity for me to cuddle into his side. This was definitely a Kodak moment if I’d ever seen one. Apparently I wasn’t the only one who thought so because the next thing I knew, I looked up at the big screen and there was the kiss cam with me and Joe cuddled into each other on it.
Chapter Seventeen
I looked over at Joe who was staring at the screen with a giant grin on his face. “Looks like we’ve got an audience.” He whispered into my ear. I looked up at him and pressed my lips against his. The fans started cheering and busted out into a round of applause. I felt Joe smile during the kiss. We didn’t care that the camera was no longer on us. Joe kept his arms around me and we continued our little make out session. Everything felt right. The game ended at 6:30 and the home team won so Joe left the game a very happy camper, as did I. We exited the stadium with our hands intertwined. Joe insisted on taking me out to dinner. I agreed but told him I was paying. “Haha, you’re funny Miley. I always loved that about you. If we‘re going out to dinner, I‘m paying. That‘s final.” Joe said. I sighed a sigh of defeat. I hated when he did that. He never let me pay for ANYTHING. I understand he was being a “man” but it was okay to let me pay sometimes too. Oh well, I’ll let him do his thing. Crap, I really need to stop having these conversations with myself. Okay, Miley, focus. “So where are we going for dinner?” I asked, even though I knew Joe would never tell me. “Well, I was hoping if it’s okay with you, we could go back to my house. My parents are out of town for the night. We could order some Chinese food and
watch movies all night. You can even stay over.” Joe said, briefly looking over at me before returning his gaze back on the road. “Hm, a night in. Sounds cute. I’m in.” I said. We went to the local Chinese restaurant and got a variety of food. Then we headed back to Joe’s place. His house here was much different than the one he had in LA. For Braden standards, it was rather large but for LA standards, it was small. I liked it though. We went inside and made up plates of food. We were sitting on the couch watching Jersey Shore and I was cuddled into Joe. He looked down at me and asked “Are you comfortable?” “Eh, I’m alright, I suppose.” I replied. Joe slowly got up and picked me up off the couch. He carried me into his room and got me a pair of his sweatpants and a T-shirt He told me to change and then meet him back downstairs. I changed clothes and decided to look around his room a little. It was your ordinary boy’s room. Blue walls filled with posters of random girls, a dark brown desk with a black Mac on top of it. His bed was King sized and looked very comfortable. His dresser was the same color as his desk and on top of it was colognes of many colors including, my favorite, Drakkar Noir. I decided I was up here for a long enough time and decided to go back down before Joe began to get suspicious. I made my way downstairs and saw Joe sitting there, watching The Notebook, bawling his eyes out. I walked over to him and jumped on his back. Joe screamed and jumped up off the couch and started running taking me with him. “I’m sorry, Josephine, I didn’t mean to ruin your emotional moment.” I joked. Joe looked up and me and made a face. “I’m glad to see you find it funny that I have a heart and get emotional during that kind of stuff.” Joe said, pouting. I jumped off his back and hugged him. “It’s okay Joey. I think it’s hot when guys get emotional during romantic movies.” I whispered. “Don’t joke with me.” Joe said, looking away. “No, really, I do. I think it’s attractive.” I said before placing my index finger under his chin and making him look at me. I slowly brought his face towards mine and our lips touched. There go those fireworks again. Joe gently rubbed his tongue along my bottom lip and I slowly opened my mouth, allowing his tongue to enter my mouth. We kept that up for a good 10 minutes before deciding to go put on another movie. We agreed on The Hangover, our favorite. Joe and I were laughing so hard I felt tears coming out of my eyes. After that was over, we decided to go chill upstairs so we went into his room. “Nice posters Joseph.” I joked, pretending I hadn’t noticed them before. “Hey, I’m a guy, we have needs at random times during the day and having these posters just helps.” Joe joked. “Pervert.” “Whatever. It’s a guy thing, you wouldn’t understand.” I continued looking around his room. “Do you mind?” He asked. “No, not at all. Continue doing what you’re doing.” I said, playing dumb. “I’m gonna lay down, try not to break anything Miley.” “No promises.” I joked. Joe laid down and was slowly drifting off to sleep. It was only 11, there was no way I was letting him fall asleep on me. I quietly approached his bed and gently got on it. Then I started bouncing up and down on his chest. Joe’s eyes sprung open. “You’re gonna pay for that Miley.” Oh crap! I thought to myself as I ran out of his room and down the stairs. This is gonna be an interesting night.
watch movies all night. You can even stay over.” Joe said, briefly looking over at me before returning his gaze back on the road. “Hm, a night in. Sounds cute. I’m in.” I said. We went to the local Chinese restaurant and got a variety of food. Then we headed back to Joe’s place. His house here was much different than the one he had in LA. For Braden standards, it was rather large but for LA standards, it was small. I liked it though. We went inside and made up plates of food. We were sitting on the couch watching Jersey Shore and I was cuddled into Joe. He looked down at me and asked “Are you comfortable?” “Eh, I’m alright, I suppose.” I replied. Joe slowly got up and picked me up off the couch. He carried me into his room and got me a pair of his sweatpants and a T-shirt He told me to change and then meet him back downstairs. I changed clothes and decided to look around his room a little. It was your ordinary boy’s room. Blue walls filled with posters of random girls, a dark brown desk with a black Mac on top of it. His bed was King sized and looked very comfortable. His dresser was the same color as his desk and on top of it was colognes of many colors including, my favorite, Drakkar Noir. I decided I was up here for a long enough time and decided to go back down before Joe began to get suspicious. I made my way downstairs and saw Joe sitting there, watching The Notebook, bawling his eyes out. I walked over to him and jumped on his back. Joe screamed and jumped up off the couch and started running taking me with him. “I’m sorry, Josephine, I didn’t mean to ruin your emotional moment.” I joked. Joe looked up and me and made a face. “I’m glad to see you find it funny that I have a heart and get emotional during that kind of stuff.” Joe said, pouting. I jumped off his back and hugged him. “It’s okay Joey. I think it’s hot when guys get emotional during romantic movies.” I whispered. “Don’t joke with me.” Joe said, looking away. “No, really, I do. I think it’s attractive.” I said before placing my index finger under his chin and making him look at me. I slowly brought his face towards mine and our lips touched. There go those fireworks again. Joe gently rubbed his tongue along my bottom lip and I slowly opened my mouth, allowing his tongue to enter my mouth. We kept that up for a good 10 minutes before deciding to go put on another movie. We agreed on The Hangover, our favorite. Joe and I were laughing so hard I felt tears coming out of my eyes. After that was over, we decided to go chill upstairs so we went into his room. “Nice posters Joseph.” I joked, pretending I hadn’t noticed them before. “Hey, I’m a guy, we have needs at random times during the day and having these posters just helps.” Joe joked. “Pervert.” “Whatever. It’s a guy thing, you wouldn’t understand.” I continued looking around his room. “Do you mind?” He asked. “No, not at all. Continue doing what you’re doing.” I said, playing dumb. “I’m gonna lay down, try not to break anything Miley.” “No promises.” I joked. Joe laid down and was slowly drifting off to sleep. It was only 11, there was no way I was letting him fall asleep on me. I quietly approached his bed and gently got on it. Then I started bouncing up and down on his chest. Joe’s eyes sprung open. “You’re gonna pay for that Miley.” Oh crap! I thought to myself as I ran out of his room and down the stairs. This is gonna be an interesting night.
Chapter Eighteen
I ran around the house trying to avoid Joe. Thankfully, I got a good 30 second lead on him. I was running so fast and occasionally glancing over my shoulder that I didn’t realize I was headed straight for the front door, which was open. Next thing I knew, BAM Nick was falling to the ground and he took me down with him. It was so awkward being there, on the ground with my ex crush/boyfriend’s stepbrother. “Miley, I’m so gonna get you!” Joe yelled, faking an angry voice. Crap, he’s close. What if he catches us?! This is NOT what it looks like. This is WAY worse than what it looks like. What do I do?! I need to stop talking to myself, I’m just wasting time. Ok, I have to get off of Nick and make a run for it. Yeah, great plan. Now, I just need to get myself up before Joe gets here. “What is going on here?!” The anger in his voice was extremely clear. I quickly got up off of Nick and slowly walked over to him. “I know what it looks like but I promise, nothing happened. I was running to try and get away from you and I didn’t realize Nick was walking in the door. I ran into him and knocked him over and then, I tripped on him. That’s all that happened, I promise.” Joe shook his head at me. “I saw what I saw Miley. How are you gonna lie straight to my face?!” Joe’s voice rose. The tears were now pouring down my face. “Stop crying. You cheated on me, I caught you and that’s the end of it. Don’t act heartbroken. You’re a liar. Own up to it.” Joe said, even harsher than before. “Joe, how can you say that?! All I did was fall on him! We weren’t kissing, there was nothing going on.” I tried to remain calm but found it extremely difficult. Joe was accusing me of not only being a cheater but a liar as well. I didn’t see what the big deal was, I tripped on him and that was it. Nick just stood there awkwardly watching what was going down. I looked at him and gave him a silent plea for help. “Joe stop. As much as I want something to happen, nothing is going on between Miley and me. You’re my brother, maybe not by blood but you’re still my brother and I would never do that to you. Everything that she’s told you has been true.” Nick said before slowly going upstairs to I’m assuming his room. Joe and I stood there in his hallway avoiding eye contact with each other. “You should probably go.” Joe coldly said continuing to avoid eye contact with me. Without saying a word, I walked to the door, stepped outside and slammed it behind me. It wasn’t until I got halfway down the street that I broke down crying.
Chapter Nineteen
I woke up that next morning with a horrible headache. My makeup was running, my hair was a mess, and I was still in yesterday’s clothes. As soon as I walked in that door, I found a giant pint of ice cream, went up to my room, cried my eyes out, ate it, then fell asleep. Thank God today was a Sunday and I wouldn’t have to see Joe for another day. Maybe, if my mother loves me, she’ll let me miss school this week. I can’t possibly face Joe. Especially when I have no idea where our relationship stands. I had no plans of getting up today. I just wanted to lie in my bed and sulk. This was going great until around 1:00 when there was a knock on my bedroom door. “What?!” I hiss at the unwanted guest. “It’s Selena.” A soft voice spoke making me feel bad about snapping. “Sorry Sel. I’m not in the best of moods right now and I look like shit but if you really want, you can come in.” I tried to sound as calm as possible. Sel took advantage of me inviting her in because she came in my room and sat on my bed. “I heard what happened.” Selena said, sounding sympathetic. “Great, that means it’s getting around that I’m a ‘lying cheater.’” I sobbed even harder now. I knew Selena didn’t really know what to do. Was she supposed to comfort me? Should she let me be? She went with the first choice and scooched over to where I was now curled up in a ball and lied next to me. She put her arms around me and rubbed my back. It felt nice to have someone that cared about me. “Not trying to be rude but how did you find out where I live?” I asked once I felt myself start to calm down. “I’m not supposed to say, sorry.” “Oh it’s f-” I was cut off by Selena. “Fine, I’ll tell you! Stop threatening me!” Selena yelled. I couldn’t help but giggle. “Joe told me where you live. He gave me very specific orders to go check up on you. And while I’m doing that, Nick is trying to comfort him because he’s been crying all morning.” Did she just say Joe was crying all morning and that he told
her to check up on me? What was that supposed to mean? Did he care? If he did, why did he freak out on me like that yesterday and kick me out of his house? I was so confused. I couldn’t sit in this bed wondering what was going on all day. I had an idea. “Hey Sel, can we go over to your house and hit the pool? I wanna get my tan on and go for a dip to calm me down.” I asked, hoping she would say yes. I decided it would be best to leave out the part that I wanted to tease the fuck out of Joe while I was there too.
her to check up on me? What was that supposed to mean? Did he care? If he did, why did he freak out on me like that yesterday and kick me out of his house? I was so confused. I couldn’t sit in this bed wondering what was going on all day. I had an idea. “Hey Sel, can we go over to your house and hit the pool? I wanna get my tan on and go for a dip to calm me down.” I asked, hoping she would say yes. I decided it would be best to leave out the part that I wanted to tease the fuck out of Joe while I was there too.
Chapter Twenty
Sel gave me a confused look. “Are you sure you wanna go over there Miley? You do remember that he who shall not be named is my stepbrother, therefore, he lives there so he’ll most likely be there as well.” I faked a gasp. “Lord Voldemort is your stepbrother?!” I joked, earning a glare from Sel. “You know who I’m talking about.” “Yes, I do know who you’re talking about and it’s perfectly fine. He made it clear he thinks I’m a cheater and a liar. Just because he doesn’t like me doesn’t mean you and I can’t still hang out and be friends. If he asks what I’m doing there, I’ll tell him I’m hanging with you.” Selena let out a long and loud sigh before agreeing. I squealed and clapped my hands together in excitement. “Aw crap, all my bikinis are in the wash. Is it cool if I borrow one of yours?” I asked her. She nodded her head and then slowly got up off my bed before reaching her hand out to me helping me get up as well. I was seriously about to go over to her house but then I remembered something, I spent the night sobbing and hadn’t groomed myself in over 24 hours. I needed a shower. BADLY! I showed Selena the living room and told her to make herself comfortable while I got ready. A half hour later, my hair was shampooed, deep conditioned and drying into its natural curls, my makeup was retouched, and my clothes from yesterday were replaced with light washed Daisy Dukes that had a bunch of rips in them, which slightly exposed my lime green underwear, something Joe loved. I had also washed and dried the shirt Joe let me borrow the previous night and was now wearing that. Because it was so big though, I tied it back with a hair tie which exposed my bellybutton. I knew once I saw Joe, the things running through his mind were gonna be out of control. I walked down the stairs to find Selena rifling through her purse. “Whatcha doing?” I asked, curious. She continued looking in her purse, “Oh nothing, just seeing what types of crap I have in here. I swear, this thing is like the grandma’s bag in Halloweentown; it’s so small but can fit so much stuff in it.” She joked before finally looking up at me. Her jaw almost hit the floor. “Woah! You look..different!” I shot her a look. “A good different, of course.” She quickly added. “Why thank you.” I giggled. “Ready to go babe?” She asked. I nodded my head and walked outside with Sel. I was so ready. Joseph, here I come.
Chapter Twenty-One
We hopped into Selena’s black Nissan Altima and headed to her house. The whole way there, we had girl talk about random stuff. After what seemed like an hour, only because I was so anxious to see Joe, we got there. The car came to a stop and without waiting for Selena, I flew out of the car and to the front door. She came running after me, “Miley, slow down!” I waited for her and once she got there, she once again began rummaging through her purse. I began to get impatient, I needed to see Joe. Even though it had only been a day, I missed him like crazy. A minute later, Sel gave me a worried look. “What’s wrong?” I asked, getting extremely nervous. “I um, kinda left my house key inside…” She trailed off. My eyes grew wide. That only meant one thing, someone needed to come let us in. I tried my best to sound calm, cool, and collected. “No worries, we’ll just ring the bell and someone from your family will let us in.” Selena didn’t say anything in response so I took the lead and rang the bell. “Aw crap, I left my phone in the car. I’ll be right back.” I nodded my head before she turned around and walked to her car. I stood in front of the door waiting as patiently as possible for it to open. I was about to give up hope and go back to Selena when I heard the door open. I quickly turned around and was greeted by Joseph, who was now leaned up against the door frame. God, he looked so hot, I wanted to jump on him right then and there. Focus Miley, he broke your heart yesterday. Play it cool. “Hell- Miley?!” Joe sounded surprised. He looked me up and down and his eyes looked like they were going to pop out of his head any second now. “Hi.” I said coldly, partially because I was still heartbroken and also because I didn‘t want to just cave into his total hotness. I needed to make HIM come crawling back to me, not vice versa. “Are you just gonna stand there or are you coming in?” He asked before stepping to the side. I made my way into the house and followed Joe into the living room. I couldn’t help but think about where the hell Selena went. Maybe she got called into work or something. I wasn’t too sure. All I knew was, I was alone with Joe in his house and while before it may have been enjoyable and the perfect chance for us to do stuff; now it was awkward city. What the hell did I get myself into!?
Chapter Twenty-Two
Joe must have noticed how uncomfortable I was. “Look, I don’t mean to sound rude but you’re the one who came here in the first place. I didn’t call you asking you to come over. You just arrived at my doorstep.” “For your information, I didn’t just show up, I was invited here by Selena.” “What are you talking about Miley? Selena has work today. She went there at 8 this morning and won’t be back until 6 tonight.” I was beyond confused now. “No, she’s not at work. She came to my house this morning to check on me, which you told her to do. Then, she invited me over here to go swimming. When we got here though, she told me she left her cell in the car and that she had to go get it. In the time it took her to go to the car, you opened the door and invited me inside. I
didn’t want to sound rude so I accepted. Now, I have no idea where Selena is but I promise I’m not here to see you.” I was getting angrier by the second especially when I told him my story. And okay, maybe I changed it around a little by saying that Selena invited me over to swim when in reality, I had to beg her to let me but who cares. Joe didn’t need to know that. He looked over at me like I was crazy. “Ok..” He trailed off. “Well, since you’re here already and came here to swim, mind if I join you? And be careful about what your answer is, remember this is MY house.” Joe said. I wasn’t too sure if he was joking but the fact that Selena disappeared concerned me so I decided accepting his offer was better than nothing. I just nodded my head. “I’ll be right back.” Joe told me.
Once again, I responded to by nodding my head. Joe looked at me before going upstairs; he looked a little hurt. I felt bad but then I remembered our conversation from yesterday and my sympathy was overcome by anger. I awkwardly paced around the room. The silence in the room was overcome by a random beeping noise. I knew that noise, Joe had received a new text. Normally, I wasn’t the kind of person to snoop and read other people’s texts but something inside me was telling me I needed to read this text. I casually made my way over to the coffee table, where Joe’s phone laid, and picked it up. My mouth dropping as I did.
didn’t want to sound rude so I accepted. Now, I have no idea where Selena is but I promise I’m not here to see you.” I was getting angrier by the second especially when I told him my story. And okay, maybe I changed it around a little by saying that Selena invited me over to swim when in reality, I had to beg her to let me but who cares. Joe didn’t need to know that. He looked over at me like I was crazy. “Ok..” He trailed off. “Well, since you’re here already and came here to swim, mind if I join you? And be careful about what your answer is, remember this is MY house.” Joe said. I wasn’t too sure if he was joking but the fact that Selena disappeared concerned me so I decided accepting his offer was better than nothing. I just nodded my head. “I’ll be right back.” Joe told me.
Once again, I responded to by nodding my head. Joe looked at me before going upstairs; he looked a little hurt. I felt bad but then I remembered our conversation from yesterday and my sympathy was overcome by anger. I awkwardly paced around the room. The silence in the room was overcome by a random beeping noise. I knew that noise, Joe had received a new text. Normally, I wasn’t the kind of person to snoop and read other people’s texts but something inside me was telling me I needed to read this text. I casually made my way over to the coffee table, where Joe’s phone laid, and picked it up. My mouth dropping as I did.
Chapter Twenty-Three
The screen read, “One new message” I clicked the button that said open and was brought to a recent conversation between Selena and Joe.
Joe: Sel, I made one of the worst mistakes of my life. :/
Selena: YOU GOT MILEY PREGNANT?! YOU STUPID IDIOT! HOW MANY TIMES DID MOM AND DAD TELL YOU TO PUT ON A FREAKIN’ CONDOM?!?!
Joe: Take a chill pill. I didn’t get Miley pregnant. I did something much worse, I freaked out on her and then kicked her out of the house.
Selena: OMG! What did you yell at her about?!
Joe: I was chasing her around the house and when I caught up to her, she was on top of Nick. I accused her of cheating and when she denied it, I called her a liar. Nick came to her defense but I was too stupid and upset to believe either one of them. Instead of being calm and talking things out with her, I just told her to leave. When she did, I watched her walk down the street because I wanted to make sure she was okay. She walked out of the driveway without a problem but when she got down the street, she just broke down crying, in the middle of the road. I have no idea what to do! I wanna call her and tell her I love her but I know she wants nothing to do with me right now.
Selena: Well can you blame her? You accused her of cheating on you with your BROTHER! Why would she do that? Yeah, maybe Nick has been hitting on her since they first met but she was your girlfriend. One accident like that isn’t a reason to break up.
Joe: Um, yeah, that’s the thing. I never really said “We’re over.” or “I wanna break up.” I was just doing it to teach her a lesson.
Selena: Joseph! That’s no way to treat a girl, especially someone as sweet as Miley. I’m gonna help you get her back but only because I love Miley so much and want to see HER happy.
Joe: Thank you! <3 So, what’s the plan?
Selena: I’ll tell you at home.
Then I thought to myself, I’d already read this much, what the hell, right? I scrolled down to the last and most recent text. The one he had just received from Selena.
Selena: I picked Miley up and dropped her off at the house. She thinks I’m going to get my phone but I really need to get back to work. Take good care of her and don’t blow this. I’m putting mine and her friendship on the line because of you. If you screw things up, you’re fixing it. See you at home, xoxo.
I was furious right now! Joe broke my heart and now Selena was helping him by stabbing me in the back. What the fuck is this?! I tightened my grip on the phone staring at it getting more and more angry as the seconds went on. I was so angry that didn’t notice I was no longer alone in the room anymore. I had company. “Well, well, well. What do we have here?” A voice asked. I froze and looked up.
Joe: Sel, I made one of the worst mistakes of my life. :/
Selena: YOU GOT MILEY PREGNANT?! YOU STUPID IDIOT! HOW MANY TIMES DID MOM AND DAD TELL YOU TO PUT ON A FREAKIN’ CONDOM?!?!
Joe: Take a chill pill. I didn’t get Miley pregnant. I did something much worse, I freaked out on her and then kicked her out of the house.
Selena: OMG! What did you yell at her about?!
Joe: I was chasing her around the house and when I caught up to her, she was on top of Nick. I accused her of cheating and when she denied it, I called her a liar. Nick came to her defense but I was too stupid and upset to believe either one of them. Instead of being calm and talking things out with her, I just told her to leave. When she did, I watched her walk down the street because I wanted to make sure she was okay. She walked out of the driveway without a problem but when she got down the street, she just broke down crying, in the middle of the road. I have no idea what to do! I wanna call her and tell her I love her but I know she wants nothing to do with me right now.
Selena: Well can you blame her? You accused her of cheating on you with your BROTHER! Why would she do that? Yeah, maybe Nick has been hitting on her since they first met but she was your girlfriend. One accident like that isn’t a reason to break up.
Joe: Um, yeah, that’s the thing. I never really said “We’re over.” or “I wanna break up.” I was just doing it to teach her a lesson.
Selena: Joseph! That’s no way to treat a girl, especially someone as sweet as Miley. I’m gonna help you get her back but only because I love Miley so much and want to see HER happy.
Joe: Thank you! <3 So, what’s the plan?
Selena: I’ll tell you at home.
Then I thought to myself, I’d already read this much, what the hell, right? I scrolled down to the last and most recent text. The one he had just received from Selena.
Selena: I picked Miley up and dropped her off at the house. She thinks I’m going to get my phone but I really need to get back to work. Take good care of her and don’t blow this. I’m putting mine and her friendship on the line because of you. If you screw things up, you’re fixing it. See you at home, xoxo.
I was furious right now! Joe broke my heart and now Selena was helping him by stabbing me in the back. What the fuck is this?! I tightened my grip on the phone staring at it getting more and more angry as the seconds went on. I was so angry that didn’t notice I was no longer alone in the room anymore. I had company. “Well, well, well. What do we have here?” A voice asked. I froze and looked up.
Chapter Twenty-Four
He was staring me right in the eyes. I just stood there, as calm as possible, waiting for him to start freaking out. He didn’t though, he just kept his cool. “It’s not what it looks like, I swear.” I did my best to sound convincing. “Yes it is. It’s exactly what it looks like. You’re standing in my living room, looking like a goddess and reading Joe’s phone while he’s not here.” He said, slowly stepping towards me. “Did you know about this?” I asked, pointing to the phone. He shook his head. “Miley, after you left yesterday, I was just as pissed as you. How could Joe accuse his own brother of doing something like that?” I shrugged my shoulders. “I don’t know either. I do know one thing for sure though, Joe did something that made you angry and you wanna get him back. I can help you do that.” Nick said, a devious grin on his face. “What do you got in mind?” I was interested to see what Nick could come up with. Nick leaned in and whispered something in my ear. “That’s a GREAT plan! I’m in.” We shook hands, signaling the start of our plan. I couldn’t wait to see how Joe would react when he found out what was going on.
Chapter Twenty-Five
Joe came downstairs about twenty minutes later, so much for “I’ll be right back.” I thought to myself. When Joe entered the living room, he was in his bathing suit ready to go. “Miles, ya ready to g-” He was cut off by me and Nick sitting on the couch cuddled up to each other. I looked up from the TV and over to Joe who looked furious. Part one of the plan, complete. “What the hell is this?!” Joe yelled. “We’re watching TV.” Nick stated the obvious. “Thanks for that, bro! I mean why are you cuddled up to my girlfriend?!” Joe was yelling even louder than before. Nick quickly sprung to his feet causing me to fall back on the couch. “GIRLFRIEND?! Last time I checked, you called her a liar and a cheater and then kicked her out of the house. She spent so much time crying over you and when she got here today, you just abandoned her so I comforted her. I’m glad I did cause now she’s MY girlfriend so you can back up.” Nick and Joe were in each other’s faces. I was scared. This was one of the worst plans I had ever taken part of in my life. “We never broke up and what I did yesterday was the stupidest thing I’ve ever done in my life.” Joe yelled back. Nick just nodded his head. Joe slowly backed away from Nick and walked over to me. I pretended I didn’t notice he was there. He called my name, his voice now soft. “Please talk to me.” He begged. How could I say no to him. I looked over at Nick for guidance. Nick nodded his head and I finally looked at Joe. “Fine. We’ll talk.” I said, coldly. Joe extended his hand towards me and helped me up. I gladly accepted it and as much as I hate to admit it, when our hands touched, I felt those sparks. This was going to be so much harder than I thought.
Chapter Twenty-Six
Joe held my hand the entire way to his room. Once we got there, he closed the door and lead me over to his bed. I refused to sit though. I had to stand my ground, literally. “Miley, I’m so sorry about what happened last night. I overreacted and I shouldn’t have. I understand if you don’t want to talk to me ever again but I wanna know one thing, why Nick? If you won’t answer anything else, you at least owe me that answer.” I sighed. I thought about how Nick and I rehearsed exactly this conversation. I looked down and Joe was staring at me with pleading eyes. “Because, when I was crying last night, he called me to make sure I was okay. He didn’t go behind my back like Selena did to trick me into coming over here just so I would get stuck with you. He cared about me since day one.” I said, now looking down. Joe sprung to his feet. “Miley, how can you basically imply that I don’t care about you?! I’ve cared about you since that day we first met and you barely even know Nick! What I did yesterday was stupid I overreacted and I’ve admitted it to you how many times now. But to my defense, neither one of us ever broke things off. We’re technically still a couple which means you’re cheating on me. How could you do that to me?! I waited so long for us to be reunited and when it finally happens, I finally get you to be mine, I fuck things up. I’m just rambling like an idiot now and if you don’t wanna talk to me ever again after this, I can’t stop you. I do want you to know one thing, I love you Miley.” Tears were now pouring out of his eyes. I didn’t know what to do. He loved me and I loved him back. I couldn’t admit that though. Not just yet. Who’s to say he won’t break my heart after I give him what he wants. I nodded my head and walked towards the door. “I love you too but I can’t go on like this.” I mumbled before walking out. As I walked down the hallway, I heard something that broke my heart; Joe sobbing uncontrollably and repeatedly saying I love you Miley.
Chapter Twenty-Seven
I ran into my house and up to my room. By this point, the tears were falling too fast to stop. I didn’t care. I hated it here. Nothing good came of it. I made a friend but that friendship ended because I was reunited with my former love. Then he ripped my heart out and when he tried to put the pieces back together, I refused to accept them. My supposed best friend assisted in my heartbreak. And then there was Nick. He was such a sweet guy but our relationship was friends only. It was best that way. There was only one thing to do and it was gonna be if not the hardest, one of the hardest things in my life. I reached for my cell and dialed the familiar number. With each ring, my heartbeat got faster. “Hello?” The voice spoke. “Mom, it’s Miley.” I said, very shaky. She asked me what was wrong and I explained it to her. As the words came out of my mouth, I wished I could take them back but it was too late. I did what I did and there was no turning back now. As soon as I hung up with my mom, I got on the phone with Nick. “Hey Miley. How ya doing? I started sobbing uncontrollably. No matter how many times Nick would ask me if I was ok or what was wrong, I wouldn’t answer. After five minutes of me being reluctant in answering his questions, Nick informed me he was coming over and there was nothing I could say or do to stop it. I agreed and waited patiently for him to come over. When the doorbell rang, I walked downstairs and opened the door to see Nick standing there with two pints of ice cream, whipped cream, and sprinkles. A huge grin came across my face and I gave him the tightest hug ever. We went up to my room, at the ice cream, and talked. It felt good to have someone to talk to. The joy of this conversation only lasted so long though. I had major news to announce and the time to tell it was now. I stopped laughing and Nick gave me a worried look. He stopped laughing too and asked me what was wrong. I took a deep breath and came right out and said it. “I’m moving back home.”
Chapter Twenty-Eight
Nick looked me in the eyes taking in what I just told him before bursting out in laughter. “That’s a good one, Miles. For a second there, I thought you were serious.” I shot him a deadly glare. “I’m glad you find this funny, Nicholas.” I said before getting up and going over to my closet, taking out my suitcase so I could start packing up my clothes. Nick continued sitting on my bed watching me take the clothes out of my dresser and begin packing them neatly in my bag. “Wait..you’re serious about this moving thing?” I momentarily looked up from my suitcase and over to Nick before looking right back down. “Yes.” I said from inside my suitcase. “Why would you wanna go all the way back to New York?! Your life is here now. Not there, here.” “I don’t need a lecture, Nick. If you’re not gonna help me pack or support my decision, there’s the door.” Nick mumbled something under his breath which I couldn’t totally understand but it had something to do with making a mistake and Joe. Great, just what I needed; to hear about the one who broke my heart, fixed it, then broke it once again. There was nothing else I could do. I had to leave this stupid town and start over. I had to get away from the problem which in this case was Joe and I would do whatever it takes to make that happen. By Tuesday, two days from now, I would be out of this town and all it had to offer. I couldn’t wait for that to happen. The following day, I skipped school to stay home and box up all my stuff. Nick must have broken the news to Selena because she called me in tears begging me to stay. I told her that as much as I wanted to, it was too painful for me to be here. I promised her we would still be best friends and I would come visit. That cheered her up a little but she was still upset. Before we hung up, she promised she and Nick would meet me at the airport to come and say goodbye to me. I was happy to know people were actually going to miss me. But the one thing that sucked the most was, the person I cared the most for, had no idea I was leaving and even if he did, he probably wouldn’t care. It was now 12:30 am, and my flight was leaving at 3:30 that afternoon but I couldn’t bring myself to sleep. When I would start to drift off, I would dream about Joe and that night all the drama went down. It was too much for me to handle so instead I just laid in my bed thinking about what life would be like when I got back to New York. Sometime between 2 and 3 though, I was able to fall asleep only to be woken up by my mother at 9. She was freaking out about packing up the rest of the house. I don’t know why though, everything was basically taken care of except for some furniture which was just gonna be put on the U-Haul truck which would be driven to New York by my dad. I knew it was just the pressure of the move getting to her. I couldn’t say I blame her though. It was a very last minute thing and she didn’t even plan it. Her and my dad were making a sacrifice all because of me and I was truly grateful for that. At 1:00, my mom and I began loading up the rented SUV, our other cars were being sent to the house, with the boxes. The boxes and furniture would be going down with dad in the moving truck. The car ride was silent, the only sounds that could be heard were from mom’s favorite Country radio. Normally, I would fake that I was disgusted and beg her to turn on music from this century that people actually liked but not today. I couldn’t do that to her, not after all she’d done for me. When we arrived at the airport, we unloaded all of the luggage and brought it to the check in. Once everything went through alright, all we could do was wait until 3:30 when the voice on the intercom made the announcement for Flight 3127 to New York, New York. My mom went to a little store to buy herself a magazine and some snacks to occupy her during the long wait while I opted to sit along the row of chairs and wait. There weren’t very many people flying today. It was also a very small airport we were flying out of but I didn’t mind. As long as I got back to my beloved New York, I didn’t much care. The minutes went by and it was now 2:45. Soon, my flight would be called and I would be on my way. I couldn’t wait.
Chapter Twenty-Nine
I was now focused on finding out what was going on in the world of Hollywood by reading the latest US Weekly. I was reading about my favorite artist, Kevin Jonas. God, what a hottie. He was smart, talented, funny, and gorgeous! Too bad he was married. -.- The article was talking about how he and his wife, Danielle, were trying for baby number two. I was a little upset reading about marriage and babies, not just Kevin and Danielle’s but anyone’s because it always made me think of Joe. The summer before 9th grade, Joe
and I went to the lake behind his house, like we always did. It was very private there and no one knew about it so we were always alone. He took me there on July 16 and made a promise to me. A promise that as soon as we finished college, he was gonna run away with me to Vegas and marry me so no one could take me from
him. Then once we saved up enough money for our own house, we would have a big official wedding. He sealed the promise with a ring. It was silver and had a big pink heart that was surrounded by two smaller pink ones. It was absolutely perfect. I remember that day like it was yesterday, I’ll probably never forget it either. Not only did Joe promise me he would marry me but he promised he would make me the happiest woman alive and that he was gonna save every nickel he got since that day and put it towards an even better ring for me. I believed him and was so overjoyed. It’s a shame that that promise is now no longer a promise but meaningless words. I sighed and continued looking through my magazine when I felt a tap on my shoulder. I looked over my shoulder and there was Selena and Nick. I sprung up from my seat and jumped over the chair that was in my way into Nick’s arms. After giving Nick a giant hug, Selena was next. I thought I was gonna be okay and stay strong through it and I was doing so well until Selena brought HIM up. “I told Joe you were leaving…he told me to say goodbye on his behalf.” I knew she was lying but I pretended I didn’t. “That’s sweet of him.” Tell him I’m sorry things didn’t work out between us and that I’ll miss him. I know he’ll go far in life.” Selena nodded her head which I took as her way of telling me she’d give the message to Joe. I couldn’t help but wonder what Joe would be like after I left. I knew it was selfish, thinking just because I was gone, Joe’s life would change. Who knows though? It was obvious the subject of Joe was a very sore one so Nick quickly changed it asking me about what life was like in New York. The minutes went by which meant I was closer to getting the fuck out of this town. When my mom returned, I introduced her to Nick and Selena because they never had the chance to officially meet. It seemed like they all liked each other which made it even harder for me to want to leave now. If I stayed here, I would have two good friends that my mom liked. Oh well, it was too late for turning back now. Finally, the boarding for Flight 3127 to New York, New York was announced. That meant we had 10 minutes to get on the plane and settled in before life in Braden was over and life in New York would begin.
and I went to the lake behind his house, like we always did. It was very private there and no one knew about it so we were always alone. He took me there on July 16 and made a promise to me. A promise that as soon as we finished college, he was gonna run away with me to Vegas and marry me so no one could take me from
him. Then once we saved up enough money for our own house, we would have a big official wedding. He sealed the promise with a ring. It was silver and had a big pink heart that was surrounded by two smaller pink ones. It was absolutely perfect. I remember that day like it was yesterday, I’ll probably never forget it either. Not only did Joe promise me he would marry me but he promised he would make me the happiest woman alive and that he was gonna save every nickel he got since that day and put it towards an even better ring for me. I believed him and was so overjoyed. It’s a shame that that promise is now no longer a promise but meaningless words. I sighed and continued looking through my magazine when I felt a tap on my shoulder. I looked over my shoulder and there was Selena and Nick. I sprung up from my seat and jumped over the chair that was in my way into Nick’s arms. After giving Nick a giant hug, Selena was next. I thought I was gonna be okay and stay strong through it and I was doing so well until Selena brought HIM up. “I told Joe you were leaving…he told me to say goodbye on his behalf.” I knew she was lying but I pretended I didn’t. “That’s sweet of him.” Tell him I’m sorry things didn’t work out between us and that I’ll miss him. I know he’ll go far in life.” Selena nodded her head which I took as her way of telling me she’d give the message to Joe. I couldn’t help but wonder what Joe would be like after I left. I knew it was selfish, thinking just because I was gone, Joe’s life would change. Who knows though? It was obvious the subject of Joe was a very sore one so Nick quickly changed it asking me about what life was like in New York. The minutes went by which meant I was closer to getting the fuck out of this town. When my mom returned, I introduced her to Nick and Selena because they never had the chance to officially meet. It seemed like they all liked each other which made it even harder for me to want to leave now. If I stayed here, I would have two good friends that my mom liked. Oh well, it was too late for turning back now. Finally, the boarding for Flight 3127 to New York, New York was announced. That meant we had 10 minutes to get on the plane and settled in before life in Braden was over and life in New York would begin.
Chapter Thirty
Nick and Selena walked me to the boarding gate. As we stood in line, my time in Braden slowly came to an end. It hadn’t quite hit me yet that this was really the end though. Joe didn’t say goodbye to me. He probably had already moved on but I couldn’t blame him. It would have been selfish of me to expect him to sit around and mope for me. Although, part of me, no, strike that, most of me wished he would. I knew I overreacted. He tried to apologize and I just blew him off but what else was I supposed to do? Selena must have known what was on my mind but she didn’t say anything. Instead, she just pulled me in for a long, tight hug to which Nick joined in. We slowly pulled away and just looked at each other. The 5 minute boarding call was announced and my mom told me she was gonna get on the plane and to hurry there soon. Selena, Nick, and my mom all gave each other this weird look. I couldn’t quite put my finger on what it meant but I decided to ignore it. The seconds passed and we all continued staring at each other until the 2 minutes ‘til boarding warning was announced. I decided the time for me to get on the plane was now. I gave Nick a long, tight hug and thanked him for all he did for me and told him I really did love him and wished him the best of luck in college. He told me he loved me too and that I was like the little sister he never had but always wanted. Selena hit him in the ribs at that comment. I couldn’t help but chuckle, I was gonna miss that. Selena was next. I had so much to say to her and I didn’t know where to start. I told her even though we had our ups and downs, her tricking me into going to her house, she was my closest friend here and I loved her. No matter how many miles apart we were, our bond would always be strong and she wasn’t my best friend, she was my sister. She teared up which caused me to as well. This was an emotional moment for us all. I picked up my carry on and ticket and began walking towards the door. I was about to get in the line but I remembered something, I quickly turned around and ran towards Selena and Nick who were standing in a crowd of people. I walked over to Selena and whispered in her ear “I forgot to tell you something. Please tell Joe I love him.” Just as I was about to turn around, I felt a hand on my shoulder and turned around. “I don’t have to.” I gave her a confused look. “You can do it yourself.” Selena and Nick stepped apart from each other revealing Joe standing there. I was in shock of what to do. I just stood there, frozen, staring at Joe. He was staring right back at me. Even though it had only been a matter of days, it felt like it had been years since I stared into this mocha eyes that I always found so hypnotizing. I didn’t know what to do. Should I turn away and act like I hadn’t seen him or do I run into his arms and smother him with the biggest hug followed by the most passionate kiss ever. While I contemplated, Joe looked over to Selena. “I knew this was a big mistake. I came all the way over here to embarrass myself. Thanks a lot.” Selena and Nick exchanged worried glances as Joe began to walk away. I didn’t know what to do. My flight was leaving…like now. I had to either get on it and go or stay here for who knows how long. I couldn’t believe I was about to do this. “Sel, tell my mom I can’t get on that plane. I thought staying here was going to be the biggest mistake of my life but it’s not. Me leaving Joe would be.” I yelled. “She knows! She didn’t think you’d get on the plane anyway so she didn’t book the flight. Your ticket’s a fake! Now, go get your man.” Sel called back, throwing in a wink. Mother’s really do know best. I ran at full speed towards Joe. I couldn’t let him go, not without a fight. I yelled his name and he turned around. I was getting closer to him, my grin getting bigger as I got nearer. I leaped into his arms. “Miley, what are you still doing here? You’re supposed to be on your flight?” It came out sounding more as a question than a statement. He released his grip on me so I slowly backed away from him in fear that I scared him. I looked up at him. “I couldn’t leave this town knowing how badly things ended between us. Joe, you’re the most important thing in my life and if I ever lost you, it would kill me. I don’t care if things didn’t work out with us as a couple but I can’t lose you totally. We’ve fought and gone through so much shit but that just proves how strong our relationship can be. All I’m asking for is for you to stay my friend. Because me without you is like life without air. Pointless and impossible.” Joe looked at me, taking in what I just said. I wasn’t sure what I should expect him to do. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting him to forgive me but I hoped. Joe took baby steps in my direction. He gently cupped my face in his hands. Automatically, my eyes began to close as did Joe’s. I felt butterflies in my stomach, much like you do when your crush says your name. I smiled through the kiss and I felt Joe do it as well. I wasn’t sure when the last time I was this happy was but it felt amazing to be in the arms of your lover again. Joe and I slowly pulled away and stared deeply into each other’s eyes. No words were needed, our hearts did all the talking in that moment. Joe removed his hands from my face and wrapped them around my waist. In return, I put mine around his neck. All this was done without breaking eye contact. “I love you.” I whispered. “I love you.” He whispered back before leaning in for another kiss which I gladly gave him. When Joe pulled away he nervously looked around. “What’s wrong, Joey?” I asked, getting worried. “I need to take you somewhere. Please don’t ask questions, just come.” “Ok?” I trusted Joe and knew wherever he was taking me, he had a good reason for doing so. We got into his blue mustang and drove off to wherever he was taking us. The ride was very silent, mostly because neither of us knew what to say. Joe broke the ice though. “So Nick told me about your and his devious little plan to make me jealous.” He said, with a smirk on his face. I felt my face turning red. “I didn’t want to lose you. And did it work?” I took his silence as a yes. I sneakily put my hand on his thigh and gently rubbed it. Joe took a deep gulp. “Not now Miles.” I obeyed him and removed my hand. I felt the car come to a stop and looked around. We were at a small lake, much like the one Joe and I played at when we were younger. Joe got out of the car and walked over to my side so he could open the door for me. We walked to a spotnear the edge of the water. The sun was just setting and the weather was perfect, not too hot, not too cold. It was just right, the way I liked it. I looked up at Joe and he took both of my hands in his before slowly getting down to one knee. “Miley, when we were thirteen, I gave you a ring and made a promise to you. A promise that from that day forward, I would save every nickel I got and put it towards a ring for you. As you know, I’m a man of my word. Even though I left you on such short notice, I kept my promise and saved all my money. When you came back into my life, I knew what I had to do. I took all my money, got my mom, and went shopping for something. I know we’ve had our ups and downs but like you said, that proves we can get through any obstacles thrown our way. I’ve loved you since I first met you and I’ll always love you. I could never be with anyone else. It’s with true love that I offer you this ring
(http://weddingengagementnoise.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/danielle-jonas-wedding-ring.jpg) and I ask you to one day accept my hand in marriage.” Those words were so beautiful. There was not a chance that I could decline such a wonderful offer. Most people would say it’s crazy to get engaged at 17 years old but those people aren’t me. I accepted his offer and Joe picked me up and spun me around. I knew after all we went through, life was gonna be okay. When Joe was in the process of spinning me, I whispered in his hear “I’m ready to give myself to you.” He ran to the car with me still in his arms, placed me in the passenger seat and sped to his house. Thankfully, no one was home because they all knew what was going on. I think Joe had a pretty good idea too because his room was not itself. It now had a romantic feel to it which I loved. “I had no idea it was like this I swear. Selena, Nick, and your mom have been planning this for days. They were constantly on the phone with each other never letting me hear what was going on. Now we know why.” I let out a small giggle and Joe looked down at me. “You’re so cute, fiancée.” Joe said before kissing the top of my head. “You’re even cuter, fiancée.” I replied. I walked over to the bed and Joe shut the door and locked it before joining me on the bed. That night, for the first time, I gave myself to Joe and he gave himself to me. It was a magical night I will never forget. Because that night, I was truly welcomed to Braden.
(http://weddingengagementnoise.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/danielle-jonas-wedding-ring.jpg) and I ask you to one day accept my hand in marriage.” Those words were so beautiful. There was not a chance that I could decline such a wonderful offer. Most people would say it’s crazy to get engaged at 17 years old but those people aren’t me. I accepted his offer and Joe picked me up and spun me around. I knew after all we went through, life was gonna be okay. When Joe was in the process of spinning me, I whispered in his hear “I’m ready to give myself to you.” He ran to the car with me still in his arms, placed me in the passenger seat and sped to his house. Thankfully, no one was home because they all knew what was going on. I think Joe had a pretty good idea too because his room was not itself. It now had a romantic feel to it which I loved. “I had no idea it was like this I swear. Selena, Nick, and your mom have been planning this for days. They were constantly on the phone with each other never letting me hear what was going on. Now we know why.” I let out a small giggle and Joe looked down at me. “You’re so cute, fiancée.” Joe said before kissing the top of my head. “You’re even cuter, fiancée.” I replied. I walked over to the bed and Joe shut the door and locked it before joining me on the bed. That night, for the first time, I gave myself to Joe and he gave himself to me. It was a magical night I will never forget. Because that night, I was truly welcomed to Braden.