From the start (Joel Miller x Reader) (EDITED)

Chapter 9

The world outside was still wrapped in that sleepy, gray-blue haze of pre-dawn as Joel pulled up to your place. The air was cool and crisp, carrying that fresh promise of a new day. You stepped outside, rubbing your eyes, your hair a little wild from sleep, and Joel's lips curled into a slow, easy smile.

"Look at you," he said, voice low with that Southern drawl, eyes twinkling. "Someone looks like they just walked right outta a bedtime story."

You chuckled, stretching your arms above your head and stifling a yawn. "Well, can't expect everyone to look as good as you do in the morning, Joel," you teased, trying to sound confident even though you still felt half-asleep.

Joel laughed, the sound warm and rough around the edges. "I like to think I'm some kinda movie star when I wake up, but honestly? You got me beat with that natural charm."

You climbed into the truck, still yawning and brushing a stray lock of hair from your face, and locked eyes with him. The quiet comfort between you made the early hour feel less like a chore and more like a gift. Joel started the engine, but didn't reach for the radio.

He caught your glance and raised an eyebrow, silent permission for you to take charge. You pulled out your phone, thumbs already scrolling through playlists, a little excitement bubbling up inside you.

"Alright, Joel," you said, your voice warming as the first notes filled the cab. "I'm about to introduce you to some of the best music I know. First, there's Lawrence. They're siblings, and their harmonies? Like sunlight breaking through clouds."

Joel's eyes softened, watching you more than the road as you shared your favorites. The gentle strumming and layered vocals played softly around you both.

"Then there's Taylor Swift," you continued, "She started off country, but she's evolved so much. Her songwriting's real sharp—like she's telling stories that stick with you long after the song ends."

You caught Joel nodding slowly, eyes curious, leaning in as if soaking in every word. Encouraged, you dove into Arctic Monkeys, breaking down their sound and lyrics like you were sharing a secret. Your voice picked up with enthusiasm, the rhythm of your words matching the music.

Joel gave a small grin, clearly impressed. "You're pretty passionate about this, huh?"

You blushed a little, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. "Guilty. I get carried away when I'm talkin' music."

Joel turned his gaze toward you, his smile gentle and steady. "Don't be sorry. I love hearin' you like this—all fired up about somethin'. It's kinda infectious, honestly."

The warmth in his voice and the way he looked at you made your heart skip. You smiled, feeling a quiet thrill in that shared moment.

The road stretched out ahead, quiet and calm in the soft morning light. You couldn't help but reach for your phone and press play on "From the Start" by Laufey—one of those songs that felt like a warm hug, perfect for a slow, easy drive.

Joel glanced over, his hand resting lightly on your lap. It was a small, steady touch—comforting, real—and it grounded you in the moment. You started singing along quietly, your voice gentle and just a little wistful.

"Have to get this off my chest I'm telling you today. That when I talk to you, oh, Cupid walks right through and shoots an arrow through my heart and I sound like a loon, but don't you feel it too? Confess I loved you from the start," you sang softly, your voice a soothing addition to the music. You closed your eyes for a moment, feeling the warmth of the sun on your face and the comfort of Joel's hand on your lap.

When the song ended, Joel smirked. "Gotta say, I didn't expect to get a full music lesson on this drive. You've got some serious taste."

You shot him a teasing look, the corner of your mouth lifting. "Consider it an educational road trip. Full cultural immersion. No refunds."