Do Me a Favour - Alex Turner

15. Kisses

We boarded the tour bus, and the familiar hum of the engine signaled the start of another long journey. This time, we were heading to Minneapolis, a ten-hour drive ahead of us. The band members found their spots, settling in for the ride.

I decided to plop down on the couch with my laptop, determined to get some work done. The bus was spacious and comfortable, and I appreciated the relative quiet as everyone found ways to pass the time. Nick and Jamie were already deep into a conversation about last night's show, while Matt was engrossed in a book.

Alex, I noticed, had chosen a seat across from me, a small smile playing on his lips as our eyes met briefly. He seemed more relaxed today, and I felt a sense of relief that we were on good terms.

I opened my laptop and began to type, immersing myself in my work. The sound of keys clicking was oddly soothing, and it helped me focus. Every now and then, I'd steal a glance at Alex, who was reading a book. He seemed engrossed, occasionally glancing up to meet my eyes with a knowing look.

As the bus rolled down the highway, the hours began to blur together. The steady rhythm of the wheels on the road provided a comforting backdrop, and I found myself getting lost in my writing. At one point, Nick came over and plopped down next to me, peering at my screen.

"What are you working on?" he asked, curiosity evident in his voice.

"Just some notes and drafts for the article," I replied, smiling. "Trying to stay ahead of things."

Nick nodded appreciatively. "You're dedicated. It's impressive."

"Thanks," I said, feeling a bit more at ease. Nick had a way of making everyone feel comfortable, and I was grateful for his easygoing nature.

As the day wore on, the bus became a mix of quiet conversations, laughter, and the occasional nap. I continued to work, but my mind kept drifting to Alex. Every now and then, I'd catch him looking at me, a soft smile on his lips. It was a small, secret connection that only we shared, and it made the long drive feel a bit more bearable.

Eventually, I closed my laptop and stretched, feeling the need for a break. I wandered over to the small kitchen area to make some coffee. As I waited for it to brew, Alex joined me, leaning against the counter.

"How's the work going?" he asked, his tone casual but his eyes warm.

"Good," I replied, pouring a cup of coffee. "Needed a break, though. How's the book?"

"It's good," he said with a shrug. "But I think I need a break too."

*

As evening descended, the bus's atmosphere shifted from lazy afternoon vibes to a more lively and energetic one. The guys decided it was time for some fun, and before long, a stack of board games appeared on the small table in the center of the lounge area.

"Alright, what's it gonna be?" Nick asked, holding up a couple of game boxes. "Monopoly or Scrabble?"

"Monopoly," I said quickly, my competitive spirit already kicking in. "I'm going to own you all."

Jamie laughed, shaking his head. "I don't doubt it. Let's see if you can back up that confidence."

We all gathered around the table, finding spots on the couches and chairs. Alex ended up sitting across from me, and our eyes met briefly, a silent challenge exchanged between us. It was nice to see him so relaxed and ready for some fun.

As the game progressed, I found myself completely immersed. I was buying properties left and right, strategizing with fervor. The guys were equally competitive, and the game quickly turned into a spirited battle of wits and luck.