LA Big Break

Chapter Eighteen

I pinched myself on the arm to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.

I wasn’t.

Cody was really stood there.

I felt somebody grab my hand. I turned slightly and saw Alli, pulling me towards the stage. It felt like a dream. Alli let go of my hand and edged me towards the stage steps. I had no choice but to walk up them. Cody put his hand out for me to hold and I placed my hand on his. He led me up the steps and slipped his arm around my waist. I hugged him with so much force and I rested my forehead on his. For a moment we felt like the only people on Earth, where neither my family nor friends were watching our reunion.

‘I missed you so much Cody.’ I whispered in his ear.

‘I missed you more, please don’t leave again.’ He replied.

‘I won’t.’

‘I love you.’ We said in unison. I broke away from the hug and saw my mum standing with the whole of the Simpson family, minus Tom, who was more intrigued by the cake.

‘Happy Birthday… to you.’ Cody finally sung and everybody clapped. With that, Alli ran onto the stage and pounded into me, closely followed by Mel. The music had started again and we walked off of the stage. I was still holding Cody’s hand, I didn’t want to let go, I didn’t want him to leave my side. He seemed okay with this so I didn’t feel as needy.

‘Mel, this is Alli. Alli, this is Mel!’ I said.

‘I know, we’ve met!’ Mel laughed and I felt a confused look grow on my face.

‘Well, we’ve been here since yesterday. And it was Mel who arranged all of this!’ Alli said, gesturing around her.

‘Mel.’ I said, trying not to cry. I stumbled over my words. ‘I can’t thank you enough Mel!’ I finally got out.

‘Only the best for my best friend.’ She said. My hand was still in Cody’s but I tried to hug her as best I could.

‘Wait, Mel was with me yesterday, how did you meet?’ I giggled.

‘Oh wait, I think I forgot my phone.’ Mel said and gestured to the event of seeing the family in the hall yesterday.

‘You’re in the room across the corridor?!’ I finally pieced together.

‘Indeed.’ Cody laughed, and he slipped his arm around my neck. He pulled me in closer and I finally felt the warmth of his body again.

‘Alli, do you want to get some cake?’ Mel asked.

‘I was waiting for you to ask!’ She laughed.

‘Thank you.’ I mouthed to Mel and they walked to the table.

‘I can't believe you're here, it's the best present I could wish for!’ I said, resting my head on his shoulder.

‘I had to see you.’ He said, leaning down to kiss me. Even in heels I was slightly shorter than him, but just the right height to rest my head on his shoulder.

‘You look stunning.’ He said as he grabbed my hand.

‘Thank you, you don’t scrub up too bad yourself!’ I laughed and he jokingly acted offended.

‘No way, a chocolate fountain?’ I heard Alli shout. I couldn’t help but laugh.

‘Wait, chocolate fountain?’ Cody said. I lead him over and he stood next to Alli in awe.

‘Are they okay?’ Mel laughed sarcastically.

‘I’m not sure.’ I said as I stood watching them indulge in the liquid chocolate.