Sober

Ch. 16

Kyler and I sat on the couch in each other's arms for at least an hour. Instead of watching TV, we were just enjoying each other's company which was nice, but I was insanely anxious.

Not only was I not used to being held for so long, but I never thought I'd ever win. I never thought he'd be mine.

I'm so awkward and trip over my words and am frankly too embarrassed half the time to admit my feelings. Nevertheless, Kyler thought it was adorable and read me like a book, which is mildly terrifying but still comforting to know that he gets me.

Most people in the past didn't like how timid or emotionless I was at times, and so they'd give me the same energy back, despite me not doing it on purpose.

I wanted to act like Kyler's outgoing personality, and flirtatiousness was annoying, but it was almost comforting. Sure, I don't want him to speak up and stand up for me non-stop, but it's nice to know that he's willing and isn't ashamed to be around me.

Around six, Kyler finally got out of his pajamas and eventually tied his hair back up. Though, when he came back out of his bedroom, I froze.

He laughs. "What?"

"What do you mean what?"

He's wearing what he normally wears to work, and man, it doesn't matter the environment—he just always looks hot in that.

"Now I feel underdressed!" I exclaim and start trying to fix my hair.

Kyler adjusts his suspenders, smiling. "Nikki, you look great. Don't worry." He walks to the front door and starts putting on his shoes, so I do the same.

"Anyway, where are we going?" I ask.

"It's a surprise."

I groan. "What, why? What if it's someplace fancy and I show up like this and they kick me out!"

Kyler chuckles. "You're wearing a collared shirt—it's fine. And making it a surprise makes it spicier!" He stands up. "This will be our first actual date."

I blush, and he smiles, then kisses my forehead.

"Is that cool with you? No one will have to assume anything or worry about any drunk mishaps. For once, we can actually act like adults!"

There's a pause. And then we both bust out laughing.

"That is if you want!" He chuckles, and I shrug, grinning.

"Eh, we'll see how the night plays out," I state and grab his hand before we finally leave his apartment.

Once in the car, I stare at all the scenery and traffic signs, trying to figure out where the hell he's taking me. Honestly, I never go too far off campus. There are a few stores and restaurants nearby, along with a few frat houses but other than that? I was a hermit.

I'd already lived here for about two years, but I'm still terrified of getting lost.

I glance over at Kyler, who as usual, looks sexy as hell as he drives with one hand, leaning his head on the other as he reclines back slightly.

His icy blue eyes catch me staring at him, and I flinch.

"You good over there?"

"Mhm."

He then switches hands and places one on my thigh. He glances at me, smiling.

"You sure?"

I interlace his fingers with mine and nod. We stay like that for the rest of the car ride, and it's quite nice.

Before I know it, he backs into a parking space, and we get out. Kyler runs over to the front of the restaurant and does jazz hands.

"Tada!" He beams and then starts laughing at his own action. "I heard it's the best Spanish restaurant in town! Deja's been here before, and she says it's great!"