I woke up in the middle of the night, 4:15 am to be exact. It was the worst and best dream I had had in a long time, but it left me sad and longing. It was about my first time with Harry, so realistic from the sound of his voice to the touch of his skin and scent. I wanted to cry and eventually did. I felt that by no longer being together, a part of me went missing; a part that I could never get back because it wasn't up to me anymore.

Then I cheered myself up by thinking of Liam; he did bring a smile to my face. I wondered, although very unconventional, if I could ever have with Liam what I had with Harry. They were very different in personalities, careers, styles and appearance. Maybe Liam could never live up to the bar Harry had raised, but he still deserved a chance to earn his own place on my trophy shelf. Maybe he would even surprise me; so far my fondness for him was growing and anticipating.

---

My heart had settled back to bed, but my emotional morning wasn't over. I went into the kitchen to find my mother making a full course breakfast; that meant we were due for a talk. This couldn't come at a better time as I felt we were in need of some rekindling. We sat happily at the table with pancakes, sausage, berries, whip cream and syrup all within arm's reach. Most importantly we had our coffee mugs, no conversation would be complete without them.

"Sweetie, I've been meaning to talk with you…I know that you've witnessed Kevin and I dating for several weeks now," I nodded enthusiastically. "And I just wanted to know what you thought about us eventually moving in together…in the future, not right now though" she asked hopeful.

"Mom, I know you're scared if I'm going to think it's too soon or not, but I'm so happy for you. You've found someone who clearly makes you happy. So why wait?" I encouraged her

"Oh Brynn, you don't know how relieved I am to here you say that! And of course I mean much later in the future, I just wanted to know where you stood with all this."

"Mom it's your life. It actually pleases me to know that you won't be alone when I go off to culinary school. You'll be taken care of," I smiled and squeezed her hand.

"Fantastic! So tell me, how have you been? How's work and school?"

"Both are fine, it's my love life that's a little unpredictable these days."

"How so?"

"Well okay, I'm just going to spill it…how weird would it be if Liam and I were dating while you were dating his brother?" I feared her answer.

"Well that was unexpected, but I already knew he liked you…I could tell. I know they're brothers and the situation is quite unique, but I have no problem with it. Now if he were Kevin's son…that's a different story."

I squeezed my mother's hand again as we both brought a sense of relief to the table. Then she placed an envelope in front of me, it was stamped from San Francisco. I jumped in my seat as I also saw the California Culinary Academy logo on the far corner. In desperation my mother waved her hands for me to open it already. I used my knife to slice through the envelope and snatched out the paper.

I read it quietly. It's as though reading it the first two times wasn't enough; I had to reread the first line 4 more times. My heart sunk in my chest as my eyes began to water; not intentionally. It was a very emotional morning.

"I got IN!" I shrieked.

We bolted out of our chairs and started jumping around together overjoyed. Finally, my time of independence was at my fingertips in a matter of months. I would be housing in San Francisco, and on occasion make the 6 plus something hour drive to visit. But knowing me and my Eeyore relationship mindset, I wondered if it was wise to start something with Liam, since I refused to engage in another long distance commitment…ever!

Later that day, I drove over to Izzy's house with Louis and his truck to help her move. Luckily there was little furniture, but I can't forget the awkward picture of the 4 of us under the same roof. Yes, Niall was there. His hair was long and shaggy, completely transformed…spiritually. I was glad to see this different person be there for his sister.

Izzy was very pregnant, weeks away from completing her full term. I even saw a bit of a waddle. Still she seemed peaceful and confident…on the outside. It took us a few hours, yet with our splendid team work we were all at Niall's apartment and bringing in the last trash bags of her clothes and shoes. I couldn't tell if she was having a hormonal 'preggie' moment but Elizabeth started saying that she didn't want it. She didn't want all these clothes and shoes.

"What do you want to do with it?" I asked concerned.

"Give it away! I don't want it! I don't need it! My baby doesn't even have an outfit to come home in," she began to shed a tear.

I looked at Niall speechless; I didn't know what to say. Louis went to console her while Niall took me outside to talk.

"My mother is slowly coming around but my dad is too stubborn and prideful. Izzy doesn't know this yet but between my mother and Pastor Lloyd, we've arranged a baby shower tomorrow night. We've received donations of new clothes and baby equipment so the baby is taken care of. Everything else I went and got; it's just all stashed in the downstairs garage. She can't see anything yet."

I shook my head and gave Niall a hug for assuming so much responsibility when he didn't have to. Louis then stepped out and said that Izzy was calling for me. We switched places and I ran to Izzy to see what was wrong. She was still in tears but clearly it wasn't about the bags or possessions.

"I don't know if I can do this B. I'm not ready nor am I fit to be a mother," she continued to cry covering her face with her hands.

"Have you considered giving her up for adoption?" I suggested.

"I've thought about it. But the thought of me giving HER up, leaves me having nightmares every night. I know that would haunt me forever, wondering where she was when I have the choice right now to avoid all that."

I rubbed her back while holding her hand. I couldn't imagine how afraid she must have felt. The terror shot from her eyes. No one is ready to be a parent until they plop that baby on your chest and you're forced to be responsible for another being; a responsibility you never assumed properly with yourself to begin with. I wanted to comfort her but I was running out of things to say.

"I need to confess something to you… I couldn't find my phone, so I went looking for you at the restaurant. I found Zayn there and he treated me to dinner, but I sat by myself," she quickly clarified as though I were to get mad or something. "And we talked afterwards for hours. I told him that I had doubts about keeping this baby as well. And he told me that he wanted to be there for me and the baby. And he touched my face…but nothing happened. I swear!"

I just smiled. Perhaps if I had heard something like this a while back, I might have felt a little jealous. But after learning his true feelings for me and now that I've sort of chosen Liam, I felt completely fine. I did want them to be together in the first place right? Yes.

"Izzy, you don't have to worry. I want you two to be close friends. He really is a great guy you can trust and depend on. So is your brother, and if something flourishes between you and Zayn than I will be more than happy for you. Just remember that you have friends that are willing to help you too."

"Thanks B."

"By the way, Liam and I…are kind of seeing each other."

"I know, Zayn told me. I'm happy for you too. Does this mean you've finally let go of Harry?"

"I want to believe so," I thought aloud.

---

We had cycled around to the month of amore. This time I wasn't a Valentine's Day hater because I had a possible date this year. My mom also had a family dinner planned; apparently Kevin wanted to do something different… together. I was all for it, I mean I might as well start getting used to seeing Janet as my sister now. Isn't that every best friend's wish come true?

I understood how hard it was for Liam to call me but we did text back and forth as often as he could; usually real early in the day and late at night. Unlike this previous scenario, he'd come down to stay at his brother's house on the weekends. And believe it or not, Liam kept a respectable distance in and outside the house with me.

We had only been on one more 'date' since our bike ride and that was including Janet, so I guess that was more of a 'hangout'. We jogged on a beautiful trail in the park, only it was more like Janet and Liam were running and I was trying not to pass out as my breathing was all over the place. Running isn't on my list of talents; inhaling and exhaling while keeping track of my pace is a challenging multi-task.

One thing was for sure, we hadn't kissed again since we were on that hilltop. It was bittersweet really. I mean what girl wouldn't want to jump at the sight of him and thought that HE craved you? But we were taking it slow, which I liked…sometimes. I tell you it doesn't take much to change my mind, especially when I see him in any type of uniform.

My mom, Louis, Janet, Zayn and I went to Izzy's shower; a beautiful surprise for her to say the least. She was more than overwhelmed and humbled to have received so many gifts and love in one evening. I hoped that she would realize that she was not alone in raising this baby, there would be plenty of aunts and uncles to adopt little Rhea.

But alas it was Valentine's Day. I had received a text from Liam that he was going to have to rain check our date portion of the evening because he had to be back at camp once our family dinner was over. I understood. I guess seeing him briefly was better than not seeing him at all.

To be honest though, I felt like Harry had slightly left me scarred and very guarded of opening my emotions too quickly with Liam. The fact that I would be leaving in the future also didn't motivate me into a serious commitment right now; I was holding back. Somehow I knew Liam saw that, yet he continued to pursue me. I kind of liked the baby steps we were taking thus far; I was actually thinking more than just doing.

My mom and I met with Kevin, Janet and Liam at a Brazilian restaurant. I wore a subtle pink and gold blouse with a brown skirt and my mom stole the show with a lovely red curve hugging dress. I sat across from Liam, yet he seemed anxious like he knew something. Janet was kind of acting the same way.

My curiosity peaked once Liam came back from the 'restroom', half way through our dinner, and then 3 men holding violins came through the entrance. Not that I suspected they were for me, I just wanted to know what the HECK was going on. But the gentlemen came and stood behind my mother and began to play. My mother's face was priceless. I finally caught on.

She gazed at the musicians and smiled at the romantic gesture. Kevin stood up, pushing back his chair, and knelt before her…silence governed the room except for the symphonic melody. Not only mine, but my mother's jaw dropped also. I was too engaged in the commotion of him kneeling, mumbling to her, then seeing the facial expressions on Janet and Liam's face. Suddenly my mother and Kevin were wrapped in each other's arms followed by an outburst of applause.

My mother immediately turned to me and hugged me as well; I rushed through it to get to the ring. It was a beautiful oval diamond, and she wore it like a queen. So my question was…were we moving into their house or vice versa? Liam wasn't kidding when he said he had to leave right away. After congratulating my mother once again he hugged me and kissed my cheek then took off.

Even though this Valentine's Day was fantastic, for my mother, I'd have to say I was a bit disappointed with my 'date'. Janet got flowers sent to her house from Gabe, and they weren't exclusive yet. Liam and I weren't either but I hoped for a rose or a card perhaps. Maybe he wasn't the romantic type. I didn't want to mention anything to Janet because I knew she thought so highly of him.

Unfortunately, I would be spending Valentine's night by myself. Janet was about to meet up with Gabe and my mother was going to continue celebrating with her Fiancé…wow that's weird to say aloud. We drove home and I went to change out of my clothes into my pajama pants and baby tee. I joined my mom momentarily in the living room while she waited for her knight to swing by and pick her up.

Once I heard Kevin's car in the drive way I escorted my mom out.

"What are you going to do, sweetie?" she said before stepping outside.

"I don't know, probably watch a movie and see if I at least get a phone call from Liam before I go to bed," I frowned.

"I'm sure he'll call you. Oh dang it!" she pushed the door open again. "Can you check if I shut off the hose, I was watering the plants earlier and I can't remember if I shut it tight or not. Thanks hun!"

It's not like I had anything better to do than to shut off our garden hose…where did I go wrong this year? Another dateless V day; maybe I'd have a ménage a trios with Ben and Jerry again.

I walked towards our back patio door and was alarmed by all the light that shun as opposed to the darkness I was expecting. From the doorway stood a trail of flickering tea lights directing me to the middle of the yard. My jaw dropped yet again once I saw a white sheet hanging from an improvised stand. On the ground, a thick comforter was spread along with a massive pile of pillows. On both sides of this 'bed' were trays, one with a cooler and the other had a fancy bubbled cover.

I still saw no one but was too intrigued to stay put. I walked over to this inviting lounge area and was startled by the blast of light hitting the white sheet. I then spotted Liam walking over to me with a sweet bouquet of flowers. I was too bashful to say anything but smile.

"What is this?" I laughed in silence.

"I wanted to do something special, especially after that whole violin serenade your mother got. But I had this already planned as I spoke with your mother earlier today," Liam explained.

"Oh my goodness, this is amazing!" I couldn't stop looking at everything, especially the covered dish.

"I did get some ideas from Janet and your mom."

"I can't believe my mom helped you. That's insane!"

"So make yourself comfortable while I roll the film," he smiled at his own little line.

When he began playing the movie through the projector I immediately recognized it was Something Borrowed, which was my ultimate romantic movie. I knew my mom must have told him. So here I was in the coziness of my own back yard on a lovely 'drive-in' movie date. I was dressed perfectly for the occasion while Liam remained in his dress shirt and pants, making me feel a little sorry for him.

"You didn't bring any clothes?"

"I have my bag in my truck, but I parked it far down the street so you couldn't see it," he smiled coyly.

"Well let's get it, I feel bad. You should be comfortable too."

"I don't mind, besides I don't want to interrupt this," he half smiled.

There was a gentle side to this Devil Dog I was slowly falling for. Obviously quite romantic, but I insisted that he enjoy himself after all this effort.

"Come on, I'll walk with you. It will be fast!" I grabbed his hands to pull him up. I'm that strong, hah!

We walked around the side of the house to the sidewalk and I just loved the quietness of the night. Our neighbors were either still out for the evening or probably engaged in other activities. Liam looked like a shy teenage boy playing with his car keys; I walked with my arms crossed, both of us looking towards the ground smiling. The shadow of the trees decorated the side walk and added to the whimsical mystery of our unknown thoughts.

Funny how I said 'it would be fast' when it looked like we were just strolling in no rush. I spotted his silver Toyota Tacoma but we still had a minute or two to get there. I wanted to show a sign that I was incredibly thankful and impressed by what he had done tonight. I reached over and held his hand. We'd take turns looking at one another while smiling wider and wider, as though we shared a joke.

I climbed in his truck and in a moment's time he pulled up to my garage. I made my way back to our 'nest' and waited for Liam to change. He came back out with his own pair of sweats and t-shirt with the eagle, globe and anchor emblem on it. Finally we were able to watch the movie and I discovered what he had hidden under the covered tray.

Liam had gotten a sample tray of a dozen scrumptious desserts from an exquisite bakery in LA. My eyes were glistening at the colorful platter and I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into each one of them; it was all mine right? This was so blissful, to hear my favorite movie in the background as I caught glimpses of it every now and then, while I indulged in different and flavorful pastries as Liam handed me one by one. I'd bite one and leave him half so we could share the experience together.

"So are you ready to make pastries like these and better?" he asked me proudly.

"I wish! It's going to take me years to master this," I replied a little discouraged.

"No. I believe you can do it…Here, now try this one," he offered me a strawberry chocolate tart.

The cooler had plastic bottles of cold milk, now a little warmer. I'd have to give him some credit pulling this night off and making me think that he didn't care much. I needed a break from all this sweetness, so we fixed the pillows to lay reclined. Liam slid his arm under my head, and boy did his bicep provide quite the cushion.

"I like you a lot Brynn…" he spoke softly as we watched one of my favorite scenes…a kissing scene.

I could tell he wanted to say more but was afraid to continue. I know I had talked myself out of the 'serious relationship' deal, but I guess that didn't mean we couldn't enjoy a 'fun relationship'.

"I like you too, Liam," I searched for his hand.

His face had turned to look solely at me. His dark eyes seemed sincere. Something I was grateful to Harry for, was the confidence I now had to go with my amateur experience. So much so, that I felt bolder to make my own moves. Because I already knew that Liam was waiting on me to be ready to move on. And I could tell he was searching for that sign now.

"Have you given 'us' anymore thought?" he persisted.

I didn't want him feeling like he was forcing me to decide, for I truly wanted to be with him. And this magical evening had completely won me over. I just had to SAY it, because then that meant that Harry was officially my EX.

"I have, and I like us together."

Liam sat up as if he hadn't heard right. "So are we still friends or are we taking this further?"

It looked like he needed more convincing and what better way than to give him a little demonstration? Kneeling beside him I began to trace his strong jawline with my fingers, then I climbed on top of his lap with my feet underneath his legs. His eyes dilated as they watched me eagerly. I liked this feeling of taking over and keeping him in suspense.

He simply smiled at me and allowed me to do what I wanted. So easy on the eyes, I finally had an excuse to stare at him endlessly and not turn beet red. He respectfully kept his hands on my back but I slowly pushed him back to lie on the mound of pillows. His face was confused and delighted all at once and from the looks of it, he was in no state of denying me anything.

You see, other than studying this gorgeous manly face up close, there was something else that needed more examining. Don't judge me, don't you know that chocolate is an aphrodisiac? I crumbled up his shirt and began to raise it all the way up to his chin. All of a sudden a smug grin spread across his face as he now had the right to flaunt his perfect physique and entrance me.

Not knowing what to do with all this beautiful masculinity before me, he sat up and embraced me in his robust arms. Encouraged, I wrapped my hands around his shoulders and giggled as I predicted a wonderful make out session to make this cozy atmosphere complete. At first when we kissed it was very playful and sweet. We had fun in the simplicity of 'pecking'.

I noticed right away, that with Harry, he was very daring and quick to try riskier moves. Liam wasn't like that at all. He was very calm, a bit reserved and always waited to read my body language before continuing. He showed no rush but took pleasure in each kiss, just like we had done with our pastry samples. So I could literally kiss him longer with all this energy I had saved up; I was on power save mode.

Something else that came to mind, as we were now exploring the tongue kiss, was the dramatic dance of ballet. The way the dancers intertwined with one another, so smoothly and gently. The way they moved in sync and took turns outshining the other. Our tongues, were like those dancers, agile and codependent.

This felt like a mature kiss, as oppose to the crazy lustful kisses I knew before. Though those were equally amazing; this time it felt in control, something shared between a strong knit couple. He held me securely and I felt protected under the exposure of the outdoors. I felt like anything that would dare threaten me he would destroy; kind of like my own personal super hero.

I straddled my superman triumphantly, having more power over him because he allowed it. When we'd pause to gaze at each other, he'd bite his lower lip in satisfaction of me and I would twirl his light brown hair in my fingers. He were comfortable with each other…finally.

"What's this tattoo say?" I asked rubbing my finger over the one he had on his chest.

"Strength in numbers, it's written in Greek."

Liam gazed at me with a look I was all too familiar with, but it had taken me a while to realize. It was the look I gave Harry that last day, when I was accused of having "stars in my eyes". It made me feel like I could do no wrong in Liam's eyes. It made me want to kiss him even more, except he was suddenly distracted by something else.

"I wonder who's watching our private show," he laughed to himself.

When I looked back, our shadows were cast over the white sheet, meaning our real life puppet show was clearly seen. Hopefully by no one. I almost didn't care, being so relaxed with him outside, however I knew my mom had to be coming home soon. If not I would have continued. I happily helped Liam pack up his truck with all the pillows and things he had brought from his camp and his brother's house.

I didn't want him to go but it was already midnight and I had school the next day, even if it was a Friday. We stood outside his truck just holding each other. He promised we could do something tomorrow night. And while I thought he was going to spend the night at his brother's he was actually going to drive back to his camp base that night. I felt horrible for having him stay so late; it was almost a two hour drive back.

"It was worth it, Brynn. It was so worth it," he smiled.

How did his last girlfriend ever let him go?

Notes

Oh yes the feels! :)

But is it to good to be true?


Thanks for your awesome responses to your fave characters... there's still more drama to come. And maybe soon a surprise visit?

Have an awesome weekend :) xoxo

PS: RANDOM QUESTION- do you lovely readers know of any sci-fi Harry fanfics? Not of vamps or werewolves, but of actual super powers. I'm a bit of a romance-scifi lover and would LOVE to know if anyone has stumbled across one? ....gracias :)