Brave (Sequel to Beside You)

Chapter Twenty Five

Aria's POV
Just home from work another shift at the hospital and I only have an hour and a half to get ready before Ashton picks me up. I couldn't believe he asked me on a date. I was in two minds but I know Doug is right; I've got to get on with my life. I know I had only know him less than a day but I really like him. I had been a fan of the band for a while and I love their music. He was so down to earth and polite. I had a quick shower and then dried and curled my hair. I put on a dress and some heal, that weren't too high, a found a bag to match. Once I was ready I went to see Dougie and ask whether I looked alright.
'What do you think? Is it too much?' I ask nervously. He paused for a second taking in my image.
'Aria, you look so beautiful. I'm so proud of you.' He smiled, pulling me in for a hug.
'Thanks Doug, I couldn't do any of this without you.' I smiled back, my eyes welling with tears.
'Hey none of that, you need to go and have a good time. You deserve to have a good time. Now go before Theo gets to the door.' He said urgently, as we heard someone knock at the front door. I ran as fast as my little legs, in heels, would carry me but it was too late.

'Hello.' I heard Theo say as I reached the front door.
'Don't worry Theo it's for me.' I said, as I heard Andy's scouse accent the other side.
'Okay. Well be careful, and don't stay out too late.' Theo warned, becoming a bit over protective.
'I will and okay.' I reply to him before giving him a hug goodbye and closing the door behind me as I walked out of the house.

I turned around to see Andy looking slightly amused.
'Hi.' I said cheerily.
'Hello, someone you didn't want me to meet just yet.' he asked chuckling.
'Oh my brother, Theo. Yeah that is for the best, I have enough horror stories to scare you off with before he gets involved too.' I chuckled, before realising what I had said. Shut up Aria, you need to just have fun and forget about everything. Relax. I thought to myself.
'Sorry, that wasn't necessary. Just a bit nervous that's all.' I apologise.
'No need to be sorry I understand. There's no need to be nervous though.' he smiled.
'I know, I just haven't really been out in a while.' I reply.
'Any reason?' he asked.

'Maybe you'll find out soon, I wouldn't want to scare you away on the first date.' I said feeling slightly guilty.
'It's okay I understand. Everyone has skeletons in their closet. You don't have to tell me anything if you aren't ready.' He explained as he walked me to his car.
'Thanks Andy.' I smiled. He smiled back showing me all his pearly whites.
'You look so beautiful tonight.' he complimented, as he opens the car door for me like a gentleman.
'Thanks, you don't look so bad yourself.' I say blushing. He lets out a giggle and walks around to the driver's side. He gets in and starts the engine.
'So, where are you taking me?' I ask Andy.
'Ahh you'll have to wait and see.' He replies, sneakily.