Fifteen: Free Fallin'

Chapter 7: Not Myself

Aria planned to hold on to this feeling of euphoria for as long as possible. She had never been to a concert before. Backstage access was a new experience for her and she was determined to make the memory with Stefan.

This was the first time she had done something with a boy that she was interested in and it felt new and amazing. She noticed every way and chance they touched or kissed and it just felt good and safe. This whole thing was a first and she was focused on enjoying every moment of it.

As Johnny Rain got on stage and the instrumental to 'Harveston Lake' began to play the entire crowd swooned. They sang and watched as Olivia Rodrigo and Melanie Martinez prepped their mics to go on stage. They looked amazing and wore outfits that fit their physique perfectly. But when she glanced behind her at Stefan, his entire focus was on her. She flushed. "What are you looking at?" He smiled genuinely. "You."

A grin broke out before she could control it. "Okay. Why?" He shrugged. "Because you're beautiful and I want to make sure you are having fun." She smiled. "I am having fun!" He smiled widely. "Good. I also like holding you," he grinned squeezing her tighter.

Aria chuckled and rolled her eyes. "I'm sure I'm not the first girl you've held." Stefan shook his head, his gaze never leaving hers. "You're just the first girl who makes me not want to let go." He leaned down and kissed her forehead and Aria thought she might melt and faint all at the same time.

Warmth bloomed in her chest, spreading outward. It didn't matter how many times she told herself that starting a relationship would be a bad idea she couldn't pull herself back. This is what she wanted. She wanted to feel safe and cared for by someone as loving and genuine as Stefan.

However, she couldn't help but acknowledge the lingering feelings whenever she thought or saw Caleb despite his actions. Because of that she knew this thing with Stefan would in no way run smoothly if she rushed into it unsure. I don't want to get hurt, but I also don't want to hurt either of them. She thought as Johnny Rain serenaded the crowd.

"I remember being lost in Odessa...baby tell me if you ever made love..." Johnny sang and Aria beamed brightly. For the first time in forever, Aria felt alive. Everything seemed worth it as she discovered more about Stefan, college and most importantly, herself each day. This was what freedom was all about.

Later that night, Aria slowly turned in their hotel suite. This was not what she'd been expecting at all. Aria was thinking more on the lines of Motel 6 than the Four Seasons. Stefan also refused to let her give him any money for the room. It annoyed her more than anything, because she wasn't used to it.

Aria could pay her own way, but Stefan insisted and she realized it was something she would have to get used to. For so long it had been her and her mother supporting them she didn't feel right not standing on her own. Aria didn't know what it felt like to be taken care of and Stefan was going out of his way to take care of her.

His voice was low. "You don't look happy, Aria Jane." She pouted. "You should have let me pay for the room." He chuckled. "No dice. You can't be mad about that." She folded her arms. "It's too much, Stefan. This whole weekend is too much."

The reality of their current situation was getting to her. Stefan was proving to be more than a knight in shining armor. He was too good to be true. "Don't get me wrong, Stefan. It's all so amazing! The concert, oh my God, it was just Day 1 and I can't even begin to describe how amazing it was."

"I mean, we literally watched some of today's greatest artists from backstage. And then we got to meet them!" She was beaming. "I will never forget that! I just feel weird not paying my way, you know. I don't like feeling like I can't take care of myself. After my dad left...I just don't ever want to be in that position."