Through The Dark (Liam Payne)

Chapter 9

I'm at the front desk when the elevator doors open and Liam emerges. He walks over to me with a big grin on his face. I take him all in. Blue jeans, plaid shirt, baseball hat and hiking boots. Such a simple outfit has a big impact on me.

He leans on the front desk to get closer to me. I lean forward as well. "You clean up nice, Handsome." I tell him with a wink.

He laughs. "Thanks for last night. It was incredible."

I smile and start to respond when I hear someone clearing their throat. I glance over to see Josh standing there with the delivery.

"Oh, good morning, Josh." I say, then introduce him to Liam.

I call for Agnes. "Could you please help Josh with the delivery?" I ask her.

"But you usually help me, Alexis." Josh says. "Come on, Josh, Lexi is busy." Agnes says.

"So are you still up for a hike today?" Liam asks.

"Absolutely. I'm ready." I step out from behind the desk. I'm wearing jeans, a white tank top, denim jacket, and my pink hiking boots.

"Wow, you are ready. You look amazing." Liam tells me with a grin.

"Thank you. I just need to grab the backpack with our snacks and waters."

Agnes and Josh come back in the room. "Lexi, can I see you in the office for a minute?" Agnes asks. We head into the office, leaving Liam and Josh on their own. I shut the door behind me. "What is it, Agnes?"

"Lexi, Josh just asked me about you and Liam. That boy has a big crush on you." She states clearly.

"I know, and I've always tried to be gentle with him. What did you tell him?" I ask.

"I told him that I didn't know. I don't think he believed me. I just thought you should know. Now go off on your hike and have fun."

"Thanks, Agnes. You're the best." I give her a quick hug before heading out.

She yells to me. "I thought I drove you crazy?"

I stop and turn back with a smile. "Yeah, that too."

I walk out of the office and Liam is nowhere in sight. Hmm, that's strange. I grab the backpack and head outside to see if he's there. I look around and find him sitting on a bench. I walk up behind him, putting my hands on his shoulders. Holy crap, they feel amazing. "I thought I'd lost you." I say. No response. Uh oh. I move around to sit beside him on the bench. Liam doesn't look at me. I put my hand on his knee. "What's wrong, Liam?"

Now he turns to meet my eyes. He looks hurt. "Josh said you two are dating. Why didn't you tell me, Lexi?"

I'm confused. "He did what? I'm not dating him, I'm not dating anyone. He's asked me out a few times but I've always turned him down."

Liam looks relieved. "So you two aren't together?"

I shake my head. "We've never even been on a date. Just friends. I used to think he was a nice guy, but now...I'm gonna kick his ass."

Liam laughs. "I'm sorry, I should have asked you before I got upset. Why would he lie to me like that though?"

"I think he has a crush on me."

"Oh, so he thinks of me as a threat." Liam says.

"I think so."

"Well he should." He says with a wink.

I'm trying very hard to remember how to breathe. Liam stands, offering to carry the backpack.

As we set out for the trail, walking side by side, Liam reaches for my hand and I automatically open my fingers to accept his.