Loving him was red

12. Girl at home

Daisy came back from Thanksgiving dinner completely exhausted. It was different than the years prior, when at least she had Justin by her side to distract her from her parents' coldness. This time she could see the disappointment in her mom's eyes because the only thing she had been happy and proud about was her relationship with her best friend's son.

Daisy barely spoke to Justin, they said "Happy thanksgiving" to each other when his family walked in and everyone in the house ignored the elephant in the room.

Daisy relied on Emma, Justin's 12 year old sister. She told her all about her friends at school, her crush and funny anecdotes.

- I've missed you - Emma said as she finished her plate.

- I've missed you too... I'm just not sure if I should come around or...

- Is it about Justin? He's an ass I know - she whispered laughing

Daisy couldn't help but smile, she was right.

The food was good and they talked about it and about the weather. Justin's parents asked her about her career and hers about Justin's job. When they finished eating the four of their parents went to the study to discuss business leaving Daisy, Emma and Justin alone in the living room. The tension hung in the air, thick and palpable, as they found themselves in an awkward silence. Emma quickly stepped in.

- How about we watch a movie? - she suggested jumping out of the chair.

- I think that's a really good idea - Daisy corroborated following her into the couch.

- Okay, so what do you want to watch? - Justin said, grabbing the remote.

Daisy looked at Emma but saw she was looking at her expecting an answer.

- A christmas movie would be nice - she answered looking at Justin.

He put some holiday film on and sat next to Daisy. The movie started but she could feel his eyes on her.

As the movie progressed, Justin subtly moved closer, his fingers inching towards Daisy's hand. The touch was delicate and confident as he tried to close the gap that had grown between them. Daisy, however, pulled her hand away, frowning, she couldn't believe him. 

- Stop - she whispered annoyed

- C'mon Daisy... - he whispered back attempting to hold her hand again - We can't stay like this forever...

Daisy sighed, really annoyed.

- You don't get to do that, okay? - she finally said, raising her voice.

- I'm trying to fix...

- Well you should've thought about that before cheating on me! - Daisy said, turning to him - Now stop.

- Alright - he shrugged leaning back into the sofa - But I hope...

- Oh shut up, Justin - Emma shushed him

- Yea, shut up, Justin - Daisy repeated after her.

Emma couldn't help but to laugh and a few seconds after the three of them were laughing together.

The tension in the room began to dissipate as laughter filled the air. It was a strange and unexpected moment of relief for Daisy, realizing that despite the awkwardness and the pain, they could one day be friends again.

Emma broke the silence.

- Now let's just enjoy the movie

The three of them finally settled into the movie, the holiday cheer played out on the screen as they finally sat comfortably next to each other.