The New Romantics: Benjamin's POV

Chapter Three: "Pray to God"

To be honest, I didn't expect Elizabeth to invite Branden upstairs but she did. I followed her, Branden not far behind. As we walked I took a moment to admire Elizabeth's outfit. She looked gorgeous and I was glad I had chosen my suit, I would have felt underdressed otherwise. Although I wasn't happy about it at the moment. I knew that Branden would be sure to notice how amazing she looked and might flirt with her, despite my being here.

I was slightly glad when Elizabeth disappeared into her bathroom once we got up stairs, I assumed she was going to finish getting ready and was thankful she was out of Branden's sight for the time being.

Sitting down to wait for her, I decided that I should make polite conversation so I turned to Branden. He was sitting as far away from me as he could get and I was puzzled by this but shrugged it off, "So, Branden, how do you know Elizabeth?" I asked. He was about to answer when Elizabeth and Alex walked into the living room at the same time. She came and sat down next next to me while he walked in the direction of the kitchen.

Branden finally answered, "I, uh, used to date her." He said, his tone was calm but held a note of caution. I tensed, a million thoughts racing through my head. Elizabeth had never mentioned mentioned him and that worried me. Then again, we had never talked about previous relationships. I had never had a girlfriend before Elizabeth and I never thought to ask about her previous boyfriends.

No one said anything as I tried to process this information. I could feel Elizabeth fidget next to me, obviously uncomfortable and I saw movement as Alex continued his trek to the kitchen. I hadn't noticed him stop and watch us before hand but as he walked -or rather staggered- it was obvious that he was drunk. Figures, I thought. I sighed to myself and turned my thoughts back to the situation at hand.

I decided I would ask Elizabeth about Branden later, until then I would be polite to him. Even if I didn't really like the guy so far. I cleared my throat, "Well, it's wonderful to meet you." I said with a smile. Branden smiled back at and I could tell that both he and Elizabeth were relieved by my reaction.