The Taste Of Loneliness

Chapter 20

With new year's eve approaching Negan was honestly excited about the beginning of a new year. Christmas had been pleasant for the couple and the thought of an entire new year to start over was exciting for him. And he could tell Rachel was exited too.
He had a plan and hoped it would work out the way he wanted it.

She had left out that morning to get some more food and drinks for their own little party they were having. Her best friend Ashton was coming over, her parents and some of his buddies. He worked on moving some furniture around her apartment so it seemed like there was more room for everyone.

Now he wasn't ready for a full commitment to her, but he did want her to move in with him to his house. It was already nearly paid off and would be easier for them to manage.
He'd bought a simple yet elegant necklace for her as a token of love in hopes she'd say yes. He needed to be back in his home with the woman he loved again. New year. New life.

He had some plans to remodel some things too, repaint and redecorate to make it even better for them. Rid the house of memories from Lucille, although he could already hear Rachel pestering him about not forgetting his wife so easily.

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"Three bedrooms, two and a half bath, a two car garage, it's the perfect starter home for you guys. Plenty of room for kids running around. Even the backyard is already fenced in. Master bedroom and bathroom are upstairs with a smaller bedroom and bathroom. Then the smallest bedroom downstairs with the half bath. Take your time to look around. I'll be out here making some phone calls. " Luke grinned at the couple eyeing the house from the front lawn.

Negan smirked nodding at his old college friend as he tightened his arm around Lucille's waist.

"What did I fucking tell you babe? Didn't I fucking say I'd find us the best damned house in the entire fucking state of Virginia? " He smirked leaning in and nuzzling her neck before kissing her cheek. Causing her to laugh and nudge him away some.

"Negan. Stop. Let's to see the rooms. But yes. It's beautiful just from the outside. It has alot of room that's for sure. Come on. " She flashed her dazzling smile as she tugged him inside the house. A soft gasp escaping her as she saw how absolutely perfect it was. Running through the rooms like a kid on Christmas morning. Going up the stairs to the master bedroom.
Negan following her with his own grin plastered on his face, seeing her so happy was worth every penny he was about to spend. As she went to the bedroom he leaned against the door frame.

"And here is where we'll make some fucking babies. " He teased walking over and kissing her firmly on the lips, pushing her down onto the display bed. Making her giggle and turn as red as a lobster.

"Negan!  Stop it.. " She huffed softly, putting her arms around his neck and holding him close.

"This is perfect. I love you so much. Thamk you."

"I love you too Luce. "

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It seemed so long ago when he and Lucille had viewed the house. Numerous memories built there, good and bad. But he was determined to change that around now.

He was honestly getting anxious as he waited for Rachel to get back. Glancing at the clock on the wall, knowing the guests would be there in an hour. He wanted to ask her the question before everyone else got there in case she said no.
Pacing around the living room as he waited. Looking up as she finally returned with bags and bags, he walking over and taking some from her with a chuckle.

"Damn did you buy all the fucking cheese and crackers? " He teased sitting the bags down on the island counter near the kitchen. She just laughed shaking her head as she sat her purse down.

"I bought enough. They had a sale so I got enough. " She smiled glancing around seeing how he'd rearranged the furniture.

"Yeah yeah. So I have a fucking question. " He muttered running a hand through his hair before he grabbed the long box sitting underneath some magazines. Opening it to reveal the necklace with a small diamond on it.

"I know I fucking love you Rachel. That's fucking clear. And I don't want to fucking give up my house. It's bigger than this place. Room to grow and shit. So, will you fucking move in with me? We'll repaint and shit and do whatever you want. It's fucking time to make new memories. " He uttered trying not to sound too sappy as he shuffled his feet waiting for her answer. Which came as she threw her arms around his neck making him stumble back some. Her voice high pitched from the happiness.

"Uh yes I will move in with you Negan. I took you long enough to ask me!" She let out a soft laugh before leaning back to press her lips to his softly. Running her hands gently through his hair as his arms snaked around her waist tightly. A low growl emitting from his throat as he glided his tongue over her lower teeth. He breaking the kiss first as he looked into her eyes.

"I fucking love you. " He mutters softly to her. Seeing now how much it meant by the way she looked back at him.

"Oh my God it's gorgeous! " Ashton squealed as she eyed the necklace Rachel wore now. Making the girl blush and glance towards Negan who was talking with Luke.

"Yes it is. I'd  hate to know how much he paid for it but I love it. It was so cheesy but sweet. I guess I've got to start packing ." She laughed as she sipped on her champagne.

"Uh yes. I'm so jealous. A house! You've got a good guy. " Ashton nudged her with a small smirk. Making her roll her eyes and just smile.

"He is something else that's for sure. "

"Everyone it's almost time! " Luke shouted, already seeming buzzed.
All eyes turned to the clock as she went to turn on the television to see Times Square lit up ready to bring in the new year. Feeling Negans arm encirle her waist as she looked up seeing a smirk plastered on his red lips.

"Well hello. Are you my new year's kiss? " She teased sitting down her glass and putting her hands on his chest. He chuckled nodding slowly as he licked his lips.

"Sure fucking am sweetie. Happy fucking new year. " He muttered leaning down and pressing his lips firmly to hers as he held onto her hips gently. Hearing the shouts and cheers from the television and those around the room who weren't kidding someone. In that moment he felt alive and happy. Holding onto the kiss well after the new year had begun. She breaking away first, her face red and flushed.

"Happy new year Negan. " She uttered softly, her bright eyes looking over his.

"Happy new year Rachel. " He uttered in response picking her up and spinning her around.

It was a new year. A new beginning. He finally had another chance.