WALK ME DOWN THE AISLE

* Chapter Ten *

This is not the outcome I wanted or even envisioned. Reflecting on what transpired, especially considering the promises I made to David, it will be challenging for me to move on from this.

"Oh, about that? Let's not dwell on it. It's not that important, right?" I asserted, unsure of what to say in response.

"I don't know. But you know, after that I've realized that I wanted to speak with you more often. I hope you don't find it odd that I enjoyed someone like you to talk to. You're like a breath of fresh air, Danni," Scott let out, maintaining a smile directed at me.

"Don't tease me like that; I might develop feelings for you. It's just a prank, isn't it?" I rationalized.

"Oh, I don't think we'll be able to make it there just yet? But honestly, I'm hoping we can keep in touch and spend time together sometimes. Maybe explore new places together or simply relax and have a few beers," Scott suggested. "Sure. As long as you're sure about it," I reacted, feeling a fluttering sensation in my stomach. "Great! So, can I ask you something?" Scott reclined in his seat and looked at me intently, with a slight hint of curiosity in his eyes.

"Hmm? What is it?" I asked, genuinely intrigued.

"Can I have your phone number?" Scott reached into his pocket, pulled out his phone, and handed it to me, waiting for me to type in my digits.

While talking to him, I realized he's quite different from the others; he's not afraid to express his fascinations or opinions. And that he's a straightforward person, and I've come to appreciate his unreserved nature as we've embarked on nightly escapades wherever our feet take us. Something is just so exhilarating about exploring at night, especially with the stunning backdrop of California.
 
As I stared at him while we were sitting by the beach, I couldn't help but marvel at the fact that the person I had once fantasized about was now right beside me. It was surreal to think that I had ended up with the man I had fallen in love with in the music video of my favorite song. Remembering his line: "nothing lasts forever." but I do hope this wasn't just one of my wildest dreams.

"I understand that you have a hectic schedule, so I appreciate you choosing to be here whenever I need someone, no matter where I want to go," Scott expressed as the silence of the evening and the waves of the sea enveloped us.

Curiosity piqued within me, and I couldn't help but raise a question, "But why? I'm sure you have a girlfriend waiting for you. Out of all your friends, why me?"

Scott chuckled, his eyes lighting up with fond memories. "I always thought you were up for any adventure. And I guess I'm just so typical. I'm different in the daylight, and I'm different at dusk. I'm calmer than you might imagine when we're in bed, right?" Feeling slightly annoyed, I lightly slapped his back, hoping he would just let go of the topic. "You're so annoying, Scott. Can we just forget about what happened?"

A calmness washed over Scott as he gazed at me intently. "Of course I'll do it just for you," he reassured me.

"So, can you tell me more about your big upcoming project?" I asked, realizing how poorly I was keeping a secret that I don't know him.

He purposely withheld the truth that he was a renowned Hollywood celebrity from me, and I guess it wasn't because I fizzled to address him by his stage name, Scott Clinton. Instead, I continually put on an act, pretending that our first encounter was as it were at Vanessa and Don's wedding. I long for the day that he will understand why I'm keeping the truth about my job from him. I fear he might assume I am manipulating him into getting to become one of the characters in my story,  which is far from the truth. But the fact that what I am currently doing and showing to him is unimaginably heartbreaking. Is there anything more painful than the torment I am causing him?

"We're in the last phase of work, so it's already wild enough. And on top of that, we hardly ever get any sleep because the adrenaline keeps us going. Don't you think that could make us squeamish?" Scott conveyed as he looked up at the night sky, his gaze thoughtful.

"Well, I suppose you have a point," I responded.

"But we're in the same boat, aren't we? As a musician, your voice might need some rest, and you should be getting proper sleep. Plus, staying away from beer would be beneficial for your vocal cords," he summed up. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of surprise at his retort.

"You're the one who introduced me to beer, remember?" I challenged him, my voice laced with a mix of amusement and disbelief. "So why are you suddenly concerned about me avoiding it? It's almost like you want me to avoid you too."

Scott chuckled at my words, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "That's not the point at all," he countered. "I just care about your well-being. Do you think what we're doing is unwholesome?"

Without skipping a beat, I answered firmly, my gaze locked with his emerald eyes. "Yep," I replied. "So maybe, instead of overworking ourselves, we should take some time to unwind and enjoy the sun."

Then a playful grin tugged at the corners of Scott's lips. "Have you ever been to Hawaii?" he asked, a hint of excitement in his voice.