Breaking Gates

Chapter 13

Eddie and the guys just stared at her, trying to make sense of her emotional reaction. It took only a moment before the realization flitted into the metal head's eyes. Ally had promised to take things slow when it came to financial gifts, claiming she would only offer small things to get him used to her family's situation, yet he hadn't even hesitated in asking to use her home for his own reasons. He had asked her to provide something, without her suggesting it first.

The thought hit him like a train. She wanted to spoil him, to shower him with gifts and praise, and he had asked her to hold back. He had asked her to censor her love for him, and he hated himself for it. Yeah, it was weird, and yeah, people would talk, but he was all about being one hundred percent honest with yourself, and he had asked her not to be. What was worse was she had agreed without even a fight, determined to let him dictate their relationship.

"Sweetheart, I'm sorry. I didn't realize how much you wanted to show your affection. New rule, you can do whatever you want, whenever you want, and I will try to take it in stride ok? I don't want you to hold back ever again." Eddie urged, holding her tightly.

"I want you to rely on me, I have the room, I have the means. You can practice in the music room; you can record in the studio once it's done. I want to support you, all of you." She whimpered, making Gareth and Jeff join in the hug.

Both boys understood she had hidden her wealth for good reason. She would have never had any peace if the jocks and their parents had discovered there was a rich, single young woman in Hawkins. And seeing how much she wanted to spoil and love their friend made their hearts break. The fact that she was so open to all of them, offering her friendship without hesitation, made them adore her even more. She was a rare gem among the elite; kind, compassionate and determined to leave someone a little better after she met them.

"We would love to use your music room, Ally. Plus, it gives us a chance to get your opinion on our music." Gareth chimed, moving to pat her head.

"See baby, we are happy to have you help us out. I promise I will never tell you to hold back again." Eddie soothed.

"I didn't mean to get emotional; I have just been all over the place lately." She huffed, hating how out of control she felt.

"Sweetie, it's fine. I am not going to run away, even if you were to suddenly start screaming at me." The metal head urged. Taking her hand, he led her to class, loving how the teacher greeted them both with a warm smile.

Ally couldn't help but feel like she was floating. She had everything she had ever wanted, a boyfriend who treated her wonderfully, who knew the absolute truth about her and still loved her. She was graduating, with several options for a career, and her man was going to graduate with her. She had amazing friends, a loving family and despite the risk of war, she could see her future with Eddie clearly. It was due to this floating feeling that her morning seemed to have rushed by.

She could barely recall the classes that morning, other than hooking her pinky with her boyfriends, they didn't really speak. Both focused on ensuring they had everything they needed to finish their schoolwork before the day was over. Now it was lunch, and she was famished. Eddie was already talking about the upcoming session, determined to make them as amped up as they could be. Ally smiled watching the interaction, her eyes warm.

"What's that look for?" Chrissy asked, sitting down between Gareth and Jeff, both more than happy to have her with them.

"Nothing, just thinking about the future." She mumbled, a silly grin playing on her lips.

"Oh?" Dustin asked, turning all his attention to his honorary sister.

"What are your plans once you graduate?" Lucas asked.