Echoes of a Silent Beat

Chapter 23: Just Her Driving Me Insane

This time, I'm ready to walk all around this mall. Knowing that Lexie always has specific things in her mind, I know this is going to be a bit challenging.

"Any shops in mind?" I ask, my eyes scanning the stores as we walk. I have this habit of linking arms while walking, but even if we're more relaxed now, I still feel like I shouldn't, worried it might feel too familiar. Just then, Lexie surprises me by linking her arm with mine, her touch warm and gentle. She even cuddles a little closer, her smile bright. "Anywhere! Let's just go with anything that looks nice, she'll appreciate any gift for sure!"

I feel a flutter in my chest. I'm usually the one who clings, and now, Lexie is the one pulling me closer. My heart leaped at the unexpected gesture, her warmth spreading through me like a comforting wave. I laugh softly, trying to mask the way my cheeks feel like they're heating up.

"Alright, then," I reply, a little breathless. "Let's explore!"

We enter the department store, and to my surprise, Lexie quickly settles on a gift for Brielle—a dainty necklace with a delicate pendant. I can't hide my shock. "Are we in a hurry? Do you have anything more to buy?" I ask, confused by her uncharacteristically fast decision-making.

Lexie turns to me with a playful grin. "Nothing. I just really wanted to hang out with you today!" she says, her voice light and teasing.

I blink, processing her words. "Really? You're not secretly rushing to some other plan?" I joke, though a part of me is genuinely curious.

She laughs softly. "Nope, no other plans. Just wanted some Trish time."

I feel my face warm up at the words, my heart doing that familiar little flip. "Well, I'm glad I'm worth your time," I reply, trying to sound casual but unable to hide the smile tugging at my lips.

She nudges me playfully. "Of course, you are. Besides, it's been ages since we had a proper day out like this."

I nod, feeling a mix of nostalgia and something else—"Yeah, it has."

With the gift already sorted, we wander around the mall, enjoying each other's company without any particular destination in mind. We stop to browse some quirky home decor, share some laughs over a ridiculously overpriced lamp, and get distracted by a pop-up booth selling snacks. Every little moment feels like we're rebuilding something I thought was long gone.

As we walk past a row of shops, Lexie suddenly tugs at my arm. "Let's go to karaoke!" she says, her eyes lighting up with excitement. I can see the playful challenge in her expression.

"Karaoke? Really?" I raise an eyebrow, a bit surprised. We've never done karaoke together before. It's always been something I thought I'd do one day, but not like this—on an impulse, in the middle of a random afternoon.

"Yeah, come on!" she insists, practically dragging me toward the entrance. "It'll be fun! I've never heard you sing."

I laugh nervously, feeling my heart race at the thought. "Sure, but I think I'll just sit and cheer you on. Seriously, I've been told I could make it rain with my singing," I tease, trying to mask my reluctance.

Lexie grins, refusing to back down. "Oh, please! It's not about being good, it's about having fun," she says, playfully nudging me. "And I bet your voice isn't as bad as you think. Come on, just one song?"

I sigh with a smile, feeling the familiar tug of her infectious energy. "Fine, but no promises on the quality," I relent, following her into the karaoke room.

Inside, the dim lighting and colorful screens create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Lexie quickly grabs the microphone, flipping through the songbook. "Let's start with something easy!" she declares, already keyed up for a performance.