When Holidays Go Wrong

Chapter 6: Plaid Guy

"Why do we have to do this?" I ask in fear as I stare at the pristine shops with overly priced fabric displayed in the window burning my eyes. I can get by on cheaper and more durable stuff than this that's for sure. I sigh at the thought, longing for my work out gear even though I can still feel the strain from today's workout. 

"Oh, quit whining, I still need to get some presents for your sister!" She squeals at the prospect. She just loves shopping for Paige since they seem to have the exact same taste. I laugh softly at her excitement before slowly following her into the store, getting hit with a strong smell of perfume as soon as I do.

I nearly gag at the smell as I watch Nicole dive head first into the nearby plaid. I watch as her normally care free expression turns into a concentrated mask of steel and nearly laugh at the transformation. I watch her for a few moments more before looking around to see a guy leaning against a sales rack staring at Nicole as well. 

I watch as his eyes look her up and down before a small smile pulls at his lips. I can't help but smile at him in amusement. He has No idea of what he's getting himself into. I chuckle at the thought before walking closer to get a better look at the guy. 

He's alright looking I suppose. His eyes are a light blue that contrast well with his curly, dark brown hair that hits just above his ears. He clearly works out and wants people to know it with his tight fit plaid shirt and snug jeans. I look down at the shoes to see cowboy boots peaking from behind the clothes. 

Goodness he just might be Nicole's type. I feel horror build in me as Nicole looks up, immediately meeting eyes with the guy who refuses to look away. I see a small smile appear on both of them and I feel dread rise inside. Nicole never does well with guys, she has a long track record for being used for her looks and rising fame before having her heart shattered. 

I watch the guy walk up, leaning against the rack Nicole is currently looking through. He says something and I watch her giggle softly before brushing her hair behind her ear. She always gets nervous around those types. I sigh, watching her already getting pulled in.

She gives her heart too easily. I frown at the thought before turning away to give them privacy. It's Nicole's life, I'll just be here to pick up the pieces if it ends badly again. I stare at the clothes in disdain before walking over the shoe section and sitting on one of the seats. 

I pull out my phone, flipping through my emails and a few games, letting my boredom take over. Girl's fun, yay! I think sarcastically as I put my phone up and lean back against one of the shoe racks. I stare at the ceiling, preparing myself for a long wait when Nicole appears out of no where, jolting me out of my thoughts and seat. 

"I thought you were talking to that boy?" I ask in confusion and she shrugs with a small smile. "He got a call from his friend and he had to go." She says this offhandedly as her gaze travels to the shoes and she starts drifting towards them, her thoughts slowly moving away from me and the guy.

"Did you get his number?" I ask curiously as I follow her, my eyes drifting over the shoes disinterestedly. She laughs at the suggestion before turning and shaking her head. "I just met him, Chrisy! Plus, I think I've learned my lesson from the last five guys I've dated like that. I'm going to take my time, like you apparently." She frowns at the last part and guilt hits me slightly. 

"Nicky, I'm sorry. I should have told you but I was scared." She turns to face me and I let out a sigh, running my hand through my hair. "What were you scared of? I'm your family, I would love you no matter what." She looks at me with pleading eyes, begging me for an explanation.

"I just wanted to make sure he was worth it. And he is, I love him." I tell her and an immediate smile breaks across her face as she squeals and pulls me into a tight hug. "That's amazing Chrisy!!! I'm so happy for you!" Relief floods me and I relax in her death grip.