I Adore You // Braeden Lemasters

Chapter 21: Hard To Believe

A/N: I just saw Wallows in Pittsburgh! This was my second time seeing them live and it was awesome! I'm also seeing them at Lolla next month! Have any of you seen them and if so how was it?!!
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The funeral was held outside, on a warm and sunny day. There were many people there. Natalie didn't feel up for company, she'd rather be alone. Braeden was there for her every step of the way, though. He comforted her and held her. He wiped away her tears.

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Later that day they lay in Natalie's room, her head on his chest and her arm thrown over him, holding him close. They were mostly silent. That evening, they decided to get out for a bit.

"I wanna take you somewhere. Let's get some fresh air."

He didn't tell her where they were headed. After about 20 minutes of driving she realized they were at the Mocha House in Warren. They walked inside.

"Have you ever been here before?"

"No," she said.

"They have the best cheesecake. Order whatever you want, my treat."

"Okay," she said smiling softly.

They ordered two slices of the California cheesecake and sat down near a window.

"My dad used to play gigs here when I was a kid. I used to come here all the time."

"Really?" She asked, indulging in the delicious cheesecake.

"I feel like without this place I'm not sure I would have been as inspired to play guitar."

Natalie smiled, adoring him. She watched the cars go by out the window.

"I really wanted to take your mind off things. I know today wasn't easy for you."

"You're great for that. Really."

"Dylan called me early this morning. We just got a set date for when we're supposed to start recording the new album."

"Wow," she was surprised. "Congratulations, that's awesome. When do you start?"

"Next week. Monday."

"Oh, wow," she nodded. "That's really awesome. I'm happy for you. That's so exciting." She grinned wide.

His cheeks went rosey and he dropped his eyes bashfully for a moment.

"It's nerve wracking. I wanted wait until after Grandma's service to let you know. But I'm probably going to be really busy the next couple weeks, and I didn't want you to feel left in the dark about that."

"I understand." She reassured him. "I totally support you and I'm really excited for you."

"I appreciate that." She said. "Do you think you need to stay here longer? If you want to be with your family I can get you a later flight-"

"No," she touched his hand. "I'm alright. This weekend is gonna be fine. Don't worry about me." She chuckled.

"I do worry about you." He laughed.

As they left he held the door open for her and gave her a nice kiss on the way to the car. Then he wrapped his arm around her and pulled her close to his side.