That Beautiful Boy... and Me

Chapter 17: First Date

So, here's the big one.... their first date!

I love, love, LOVE this chapter and I hope you do too!!

Dedication goes to the one and only LauraGrimes, just because...

Enjoy, vote, comment.... I deserve it for this chapter!! It's sooo cute and reeeeallly long too :)

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*Alex's POV*

"Well then, Ms. Henderson," he smiled, "I guess I'm taking you on that date then."

I couldn't help but smile back at him as excitement bubbled through me. I was going on a date with Nate Lewis! Me, Alex Henderson, of all people! I leaned in planting a swift kiss on his lips before meeting his gaze once more.

"I'd like that." I nodded, biting my lip.

"Let's have some breakfast first." he suggested, intertwining his fingers with my own and tugging me over to the array of food spread out on the table.

"So where are you taking me?" I questioned, tucking into some fresh fruit salad.

He leaned over, planting a soft kiss on my cheek. "You'll just have to wait and see."

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Half an hour later we emerged from the hotel. As we exited the doors, Nate grabbed hold of my hand, lacing his fingers between mine once again. I snapped my eyes to his, shock written all over my face. What was he doing? What if Trent appeared out of nowhere and saw us? What would he say? What would he do? I was really starting to like Nate and I didn't particularly want to see him killed!

"Relax, Alex. I called Trent, he and Annie are already gone." he informed me. "Where I'm taking you is the opposite side of the city, don't worry."

My body instantly relaxed and I let out a deep breath, a small smile appearing on my face. "Where are you taking me anyway?"

"All in good time, babe." he replied with a wink. "Let's go."

We walked for a few moments before our destination became apparent. Up ahead I could see the entrance to none other than Central Park. I had seen this iconic place in so many movies and had always wanted to explore it.

"You always said you wanted to visit Central Park someday." Nate commented.

"How did you..." I trailed off, words failing me.

"I know more about you than you think, Alex." he declared. "I've known you for four years now. You're my best friend's little sister, of course I know these things."

"I just...I never..." I shook myself, turning to face him. I got onto my tip toes and pressed my lips to his only for an instant. "Thank you."

For over an hour we strolled through Central Park just taking in the scenery. It was truly mesmerising that such a place existed in the middle of one of the largest cities in the world. Stepping through the gates was like entering an alternate universe. As we walked around I took in each and every detail. We passed by lakes and ponds, all populated by beautiful wildlife. We watched as young children fed the ducks with smiles etched on their little faces, majestic swans take flight, squirrels scurry from tree to tree. I wasn't sure if it was these sights or Nate's presence, but a smile played on my lips the whole time. I really did enjoy spending time with Nate. We talked easily the whole time, and not once did he let go of my hand. He made me smile and laugh more than I had in a long time; he made me happy.