New York New York

Mackenzie .. 8

     I loved talking to Niko, he was interesting, entertaining, and could make me smile. He always asked about me, but didn't but the whole pressure of the conversation on my shoulders. It was easy.

     "I love it," I smiled, "Already. They're all so nice, and it's like I'm already part of the family," I added.

     "Yeah, they're definitely a great group to fall into to..."

     "You okay?" I asked, watching as his eyes wandered then he spaced out.

     "What? Me? I'm fine, I'm great." His words slurred, and I knew he was lying. I also knew he didn't want to talk about whatever it was.

     "Niko! Liz and Jonah yelled at the same time, "Stay away rfom my daughters!" They burst into laughter. Jonah kept talking. "First you tried withJess, now Mackenzie! Am I gonna have to load my shotgun, boy?"

     "Oh, Jonah..." Niko joked back, "Poor Jess is only fourteen, I know better than that. I was just helping her out... But Mackenzie here, she's the first of yours I've flirted with," He laughed, slinging his arm around my shoulder and putting me in a headlock. So get it ready...not like you would shoot me anyway...."

     "Good point," He laughed, pulling Niko's arm off of me and giving me a hug of his own. "How was your day?" I smiled and nodded, too happy to speak. He started eating his food, moving his arm from me to Liz, holding her hand.

     "You guys want to go grab a coffee? We're not busy, I can take my break a few minutes early," Jonah pulled Liz even closer to him. They were like a happy teenage couple, and I could tell they would always be in love like this. They would always be just as happy.

     Liz agreed to his plans, and they started towards the elevator. I started saying goodbye to Niko, until he stopped me.

     "Can't get rid of me that easily," he added, "I'm part of the family too.

     So we all headed to the nearest coffee shop.