Times

Chapter 11

Grace's POV

"Is this really what you're planning to do all day?" I stare at Maria in disbelif. Ever since we came back from church, she's been hanging up more posters and pictures that she printed out from the concert two days ago. Not only that, but ever since we got back, she's been playing their CD nonstop. I dont think this will ever end.

But I know Maria, and I don't really care about that. I know that this will sound selfish, but I was just wondering if she bought my birthday present yet. Yes, I know.. it shouldn't matter if she buys you something or not. It's not about the gifts. The truth is, I've always wanted her to get me something for my birthday. You have to admit, we all want something for our birthday, right? But this year is different. I guess it's because I'm turning 20, I really don't care anymore.

Gift or no gift, it's not a big deal.

"Well, I'm not doing this all day. I have to go birthday hunting for someone, whose birthday is in..... FOUR DAYS!? Oh my goodness, I almost forgot!" She stopped hanging posters and faced me with a huge surprise. I was hoping she hadn't bought me anything yet.

"I really don't want you to buy me anything. It's not needed. Seriously."

"Ok, ok.. I won't buy you anything. Party pooper."

"Shut up!" I threw one of her pillows at her and left her room to go to the living room. On the couch I found the CD the boys gave to me on friday. I picked it up and walked back to Maria, who was obviously still hanging posters and singing along to One Direction.

"Hey, if you want, you can keep my copy of the CDs from the concert. I don't really listen to it, and it could come in handy, you never know."

She answers me without turning around, her back facing towards me. "Ok, you can leave it on the bed. But it's not fair that it's almost your birthday and you end up giving me something."

I laugh. "It's not like that. I didn't buy you that CD. I'm making lunch, you better be in the kitchen in fifteen."

"I'll try my best."

Maria's POV

I lay down in my room, on my phone while music is playing on my laptop. The Up All Night CD is finishing, and once I hear the last chords before "Moments" finishes, I stand up to change CDs. I grab Grace's copy of Take Me Home from the end of the bed and take out Up All Night from the laptop. I open the CD, but stop as I see words written on the CD. It's hard to read, it looks like it was written in a rush. After five minutes, I finally decrypt the message.

You actually opened the CD, lol. Give me a call/text? 555-3859. - LJP (;

I can't help myself from opening my mouth. My smile grows big as I realize what's happening..

Does Liam like Grace!?

There is a really big urge in me to start screaming and dancing around the room, but I try my best to hold it in. Grace is only in the next room, she'll hear me and wonder what's up.

Should I tell her that Liam left her his number? Should I give back the CD and let her open it herself?

No, and no. I just thought of a really great surprise for both Liam and Grace. And that would require me not telling her at all.. at least not yet.

Their birthdays are two days apart. This could be a birthday gift for the both of them. I promised Grace I wouldn't buy her anything. And I won't.

Only this will be better. I promise.

I take out my phone and send a quick text to Liam.

Liam! It's Maria, Grace's sister. You're probably wondering why I'm texting you and not Grace. Long story. Can we talk about it over coffee, say tomorrow? With or without the boys is fine with me. It's just really important. Thanks. -MH