I had some help

Fifteen

Morgan drove Alex to the office building early in the morning so she could retrieve her car before heading to work at the bar. As they pulled up, the soft glow of dawn was just beginning to illuminate the city streets. After a quick goodbye kiss, Alex hurried inside, greeted by the familiar bustle of colleagues starting their day.

She quickly clocked in, her mind buzzing with excitement and the need to share recent events with her closest friends. Spotting Megan across the room, Alex couldn't contain herself. With animated gestures and a rush of words, she filled Megan in on everything that had transpired with Morgan-the late-night in her office, the conversations they've had, but she saved her story of last night for when Caleigh could make it to hear the rest of the story.

Feeling a surge of anticipation, Alex then pulled out her phone and texted Caleigh, her other confidante. Her message was brief yet urgent, urging Caleigh to join her at the bar when possible because she had major drama to share with both of them.

Although she was working, Alex had plenty of time before the night rush to talk with her friends.

Half an hour later, Caleigh came running into the bar, her eyes wide with curiosity. She quickly took a seat on a stool and ordered a drink, barely giving Alex a chance to greet her before diving into the story.

Alex's excitement bubbled over as she began recounting the details of the previous night, from the unexpected surprises to the heartfelt moments she and Morgan had shared under the stars. Megan leaned in, her attention rapt, while Caleigh sipped her drink, eager to hear every word. The bar around them buzzed with the usual pre-rush activity, but for a moment, it felt like the three of them were in their own world, wrapped up in Alex's tale.

Alex started her story, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Yesterday, I went to the bar with Morgan and Michael. I had WAY too much to drink, so Morgan stayed sober so he could drive me home."

The girls gasped at Morgan's responsibility, exchanging impressed looks.

"I can't believe I wasn't invited." Caleigh said folding her arms with a small joking laugh. Alex continued, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "When we went to his house, he gave me a pair of clothes to wear. But I wanted him to dress me, like he did when we were in high school." She said, her voice dropping to a playful tone. "He said no, so I got up and tried to tease him."

Alex hesitated, not wanting to go into too much detail, but Megan's curiosity got the best of her. "Tease him how?" Megan asked, intrigue taking over.

"Well, y'know, I ummmm. Ibentdowninfrontofhiminmyundergarments,pressedagainsthim." Alex sped out, her words tumbling over each other.

The two girls looked at each other, trying to decipher Alex's rambling. As they pieced together what she said, their eyes widened in shock. Both gasped simultaneously, not believing their ears. "WHAT!" They both yelled out.

"Mhm, drunk Alex was feeling pretty bold." Alex admitted, her cheeks flushing. "But he was responsible. He said no because I was drunk and missing Bailey. And I might've said that he changed a lot because the old Morgan wouldn't have said no." Alex said turning her head scratching her neck.

"I'm surprised he said no." Caleigh joked making Megan laugh.

"Then I asked him why he left me five years ago and told him how much it hurt me when he did. He said it was never about leaving me but about making a new life for himself, and if he could, he would take it back."

The girls listened intently, their expressions softening with empathy. "That must have been hard to hear." Caleigh said gently.

"It was," Alex admitted. "But it felt good to finally talk about it. Before he left the room, I asked him to stay, so I fell asleep in his arms."

Megan and Caleigh exchanged a look of unknowing, their eyes trying to stay happy. "Sounds like you two had a real breakthrough." Caleigh said through her smile.

"Yeah," Alex agreed, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. "It was a night I barely remember." Alex answered with a laugh.

"That's amazing, Alex, but what about Bailey? How are you going to spend 8 months with Morgan and so many away from Bailey?" Megan asked, Caleigh nodding in agreement.

"Bailey will be there for part of it." Alex replied defensive before a thoughtful look crossed her face. "I guess I never really thought about that. But what I do know is, no getting drunk around Morgan on tour."

The girls finished talking, their conversation leaving Alex with a sense of relief and renewed determination. As the bar started to fill up, Megan gave Alex a quick hug before they both returned to their tasks. Caleigh, satisfied with their heart-to-heart, gave a final wave and headed back home.

It was a warm summer evening as they arrived at the quaint beachside town, the salty sea breeze welcoming them. They had decided on a weekend getaway, their first vacation together, and Alex couldn't have been more excited.

"Wow, this place is beautiful." Bailey said, gazing out at the ocean as they parked the car. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the water.

Alex smiled, squeezing his hand. "I know, right? I can't believe we're finally here."

They checked into their charming beachfront cottage, a cozy little place with white walls and a wraparound porch. The sound of waves crashing in the distance was a soothing backdrop as they unpacked their bags.

"Let's go for a walk on the beach before it gets dark." Bailey suggested, his eyes twinkling with excitement.

"Absolutely." Alex agreed, quickly changing into a sundress and grabbing her sandals.

Hand in hand, they walked along the shoreline, their feet sinking into the cool, wet sand. The sky was a canvas of oranges and pinks, and the gentle lapping of the waves created a serene atmosphere. Alex felt a sense of peace wash over her, the stress of daily life melting away.

They found a spot to sit down and watched as the sun dipped below the horizon. Bailey wrapped his arm around Alex, pulling her close. "This is perfect." He murmured.

"It really is." Alex replied, resting her head on his shoulder. "I've always wanted to come here with someone special."

Bailey smiled, kissing the top of her head. "I'm glad it's me."

As the night grew darker, they returned to their cottage, where they spent the evening on the porch, wrapped in a blanket, sipping wine, and talking about their dreams and future plans. The moonlight danced on the water, creating a magical ambiance.

The next day was filled with adventures. They rented bikes and explored the town, stopping at local shops and cafes. They laughed and took countless photos, capturing the joy of their time together. In the afternoon, they went paddleboarding, despite Alex's initial nervousness. Bailey's encouragement and playful teasing helped her relax, and soon she was paddling confidently alongside him.

That evening, they had dinner at a charming seafood restaurant by the pier. The sound of a live band playing softly in the background added to the romantic atmosphere. They talked and laughed, their connection deepening with each moment.

On their final day, they woke up early to watch the sunrise. Wrapped in blankets, they sat on the porch, sipping coffee as the sky transitioned from deep purple to shades of orange and pink. The peacefulness of the moment was almost surreal, and Alex felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having Bailey by her side.

As they packed up to leave, Alex turned to Bailey, her eyes shining. "This was the best vacation ever. Thank you for making it so special."

Bailey smiled, pulling her into a hug. "It was perfect because I was with you. I can't wait for our next adventure."