The whole group was gathered at Noah's house, the living room alive with laughter and music. Ella and Josh had just returned from their trip, and everyone was in full party mode as they got ready for the big New Year's Eve celebration later that night. Drinks were flowing, and Harper couldn't help but smile at how chaotic it was. The boys—Connor, Noah, Josh, and James—were acting like kids, wrestling and throwing pillows at each other, while Ella was carefully doing Harper's makeup.
"I swear, it's like we're babysitting them," Ella sighed with mock exasperation, gently applying eyeshadow to Harper's lids.
"Definitely feels like it," Harper replied with a chuckle, her eyes flitting over to where Noah was dramatically flexing his muscles in front of Connor, who shoved him playfully. Josh was sitting on the couch, laughing at the scene, and even James looked entertained as he egged them on.
"They're such idiots," Ella muttered, shaking her head as she carefully applied mascara to Harper's lashes. "But at least we get to look cute while they make fools of themselves."
Harper laughed, feeling the light buzz of the drinks they'd already had. She couldn't remember the last time she'd felt so relaxed, so at ease, surrounded by the people who meant the most to her. Ella finished her makeup and stepped back with a satisfied smile.
"Gorgeous," she said, admiring her handiwork. "Now, let's see what the boys think."
Harper rolled her eyes, standing up and making her way to where the boys were crowded around the TV, arguing over which game to play. Noah was the first to notice her and let out an exaggerated whistle.
"Damn, Harper, looking good!" he teased, winking at her. "Might have to steal you for myself tonight."
"Back off, Noah," Connor said, narrowing his eyes at his friend with a teasing grin. "She's already spoken for."
Harper felt a warmth spread through her chest at Connor's words, but she quickly shoved it aside, refusing to acknowledge how much his attention was affecting her tonight. Instead, she stuck out her tongue at Noah, who only laughed in response.
"Let's do presents before we get too drunk to remember!" James suggested, pulling out a bag filled with small, wrapped gifts.
Everyone agreed, gathering around the living room to exchange presents. They'd decided to do both Christmas and New Year's gifts since Ella and Josh had been away, and the excitement was palpable. Ella went first, handing Harper a small velvet box.
"This is from my trip," Ella said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Harper opened the box to reveal a delicate necklace with a rare stone—something that shimmered in the light, almost otherworldly.
"Wow, Ella, this is beautiful," Harper said, touched by the thoughtfulness of the gift.
"I knew you'd love it," Ella replied with a grin. "I picked it out just for you."
Next, Josh handed Harper a book wrapped in simple brown paper. She unwrapped it to find an antique-looking novel that matched the vintage style of Ella's jewelry. Harper raised an eyebrow, but didn't say anything, not wanting to give away her suspicions that they'd been shopping at the same place. Instead, she thanked Josh, who smiled knowingly.
Then it was Noah's turn. He handed Harper a small, gift-wrapped box, a mischievous smirk on his face. Harper opened it cautiously, revealing a set of black lace lingerie with a note that read: "Black's his favorite color ;)"
"Noah!" Harper exclaimed, blushing furiously as she shoved the box back at him. He laughed, thoroughly enjoying her embarrassment.
"Just looking out for you," he teased, earning a smack on the arm from Ella and an eye roll from Harper.
Finally, it was Connor's turn. He hadn't given her a gift earlier, so Harper assumed he'd forgotten or hadn't gotten her anything. But to her surprise, he pulled out a small, sleek black box and handed it to her quietly.
"For you," he said, his voice low enough that only she could hear.
Harper looked at him, wide-eyed. "I thought you didn't get me anything..."
"Just open it," Connor said, rolling his eyes with a smile. "Stop overthinking everything."
With trembling hands, Harper opened the box to reveal two items: a set of car keys and a delicate black diamond necklace. The necklace shimmered against the light, and Harper gasped.
"Connor... this is—this is too much," she stammered, her fingers grazing the expensive-looking stone.
"It's your favorite," he replied simply. "Turn around."
Still in shock, Harper turned her back to him, feeling his fingers brush against her neck as he clasped the necklace around her. The touch of his hands sent a shiver down her spine, and for a moment, the room faded away, leaving only the two of them.
"Do you like it?" he whispered in her ear, his breath warm against her skin.
"I love it," Harper whispered back, unable to stop the smile that spread across her face.
She was still confused about the car keys, though, and turned to him with a puzzled look.
"The keys?" she asked, holding them up.
Connor's grin widened as he pulled a blindfold out of his pocket. "You'll see. Come with me."
He tied the blindfold gently over her eyes and took her hand, leading her outside. She heard the murmurs of her friends behind her, but her heart was racing too fast to care. When they finally stopped, Connor untied the blindfold, revealing her car—fixed, polished, and looking brand new.
"Connor... you didn't," Harper whispered, her hand flying to her mouth in shock.
He scratched the back of his neck, looking bashful for the first time all night. "After it broke down, I picked it up and spent the last few days fixing it. The engine's good as new. Merry Christmas."
Harper felt a surge of emotion well up in her chest. She had thought the car was a lost cause, but here it was, shining and perfect because of Connor.
Without thinking, she threw her arms around him, hugging him tight. "Thank you," she whispered against his chest. "This is... I don't even have words."
Connor wrapped his arms around her, holding her close for a moment before stepping back with a smirk. "Told you I was full of surprises."
Harper laughed, wiping away a tear. "I guess I owe you a huge favor now."
Connor just grinned, his eyes twinkling. "I'll think of something."
They headed back inside, and as they rejoined the group, Harper couldn't help but notice the way her heart raced every time Connor's arm brushed against hers. There was something different between them now—something unspoken, but undeniable.
YOU ARE READING
Forever Chasing
Novela Juvenil"Chasing Forever" is a contemporary romance that follows the intense, complicated relationship between Harper Westwood and Connor Cooper. Set against the backdrop of their senior year at an elite high school, the story explores their journey from ac...
