Not The First Love : Re-Imagined

8. Elena : Same Boat?

"What should I wear for him?" I wonder, checking my reflection in full- length mirror. He's a total hottie, and not to mention, Taylor's new best friend in the making. I've got to impress him somehow.

I glance at the clothes on my bed, biting my lips in thought. "Something hot, for sure..." I go through my options, holding up different outfits and quickly deciding against them. That one's too plain...too much...not enough. Finally, my gaze lands on a slinky little fit - a form-fitting red dress that is a bit revealing and tight fit. Bingo.

"Yeah, this will work. It's just a casual visit," I grin, imagining Harry's reaction as I slip the silky material over my hips. If I wore this around Aaron, he'd be all over me in seconds. But now that we're done...maybe I can test its powers on Harry.

From what Taylor has told me, Harry seems like a great guy. Really good-looking with a confident, slightly edgy vibe that's attractive. Just the kind of vibe girls go wild for - myself included, I'll admit. The thought of running my fingers through that tousled mop of hair has me flushing already.

I give myself one last look in the mirror, adjust my hair, and check my makeup. If all goes well, Harry won't know what hit him.

I watch the city streets pass by, feeling excited and nervous as we get closer. Finally, I arrive at a charming house on a quiet street lined with trees. I get out of my car, the click of my heels echoing on the pavement as I walk up the path to the front door.

There's a small garden with colourful flowers off to the side, and an old swing set under the shade of an oak tree. Its weathered wood and rusty chains giving it a nostalgic feel. I imagine young Harry playing there as a kid, full of energy and missing teeth. The thought makes me smile as I reach the front door and press the bell firmly.

Moments later, the door opens to reveal a slim, attractive woman with chin-length chestnut hair - Harry's dad, I presume. It's clear where Harry gets his good looks from.

"Yes?" He blinks at me, clearly taking in my somewhat overdressed appearance with thinly veiled surprise.

"Hi," I greet him with a smile, waving a little. "I'm Harry's friend. Could you let him know I'm

here?" He nods politely. "Of course, just a moment." He calls out, "Harry! Your friend is here!"

As I wait, I can't resist glancing back at the old swing set in the garden. I step off the porch to get a closer look, gently testing the creaky metal with my foot and giving it a push.

"It was used to be mine." I nearly jump at the deep voice behind me.

I turn to see Harry leaning against the porch railing, a confusion on his face as he sees me. Up close, he's even more attractive - tousled hair, hazel eyes, and a strong jawline. And why don't he wear a T-shirt in the school, the tension between his biceps and sleeves is killing me.

"Oh! Uh, hey..." I stammer, feeling flustered as I meet his gaze.

"Where's Taylor?" he asks. Disappointment flashes across his features when I shake my head. "She had something come up with her family, so she asked me to check in on you instead."

Harry's brow furrows slightly as he processes this. "I see. Well, thanks for stopping by, I guess." His dismissive tone stings a little. I forge ahead, keeping my voice light and casual. "Of course, I didn't mind at all.

"So, that yours?" I ask glancing between him and the swing. Harry nods, pushing off the railing to join me on the path. "Yeah, It was mine when I was a kid. Spent a lot of time out here."