Hearts and Rockets | Hutchpoppe

Chapter 27

Maddie's POV

Today is Wednesday, and Caleb and I are going to Michael's in a little while for his New Year's eve party. Considering it's almost 5, I decide to start getting ready. After taking a shower, I debate on what to wear. I almost wear a sweater dress, but decide I would be more comfortable in leggings and a sweater.

When I'm ready, I make my way back downstairs and sit on the couch, waiting for Caleb to come and pick me up. I let out a sigh when I realize that Jake and Ashley might be there. I pray they won't be, but Catie said he invited a lot of people, and told them that they could invite their friends. I feel safe knowing that Caleb will be with me, though.

I hear a knock on the door, so I push myself up off of the couch, and go over to answer Caleb. I smile at him before he leans in and gives me a soft kiss on the lips.

He smiles back, "You look beautiful."

"I don't," I laugh, "but thank you."

"Yes you do. Are you ready?" He asks.

"Let me just grab my phone," I tell him.

After I get my phone, I walk back over to the door and he takes my hand. We get in his truck, and he drives over to Michael's house. While we're in the car, he leaves the music turn down so we can faintly hear it. It's a little quiet, leaving me thinking hard. I look out the window, trying to keep Caleb from seeing me cry, but it doesn't work.

"Maddie?"

I wipe my eyes quickly, then look over at him, "Yeah?"

"What's wrong?" He asks, trying to keep his eyes on the road.

"I'm fine," I lie.

"No, what is it? You can tell me anything."

He pulls into the driveway, but we remain in the truck. I hesitate, then take a deep breath, "I just don't see why you aren't ashamed to be seen with me."

"I could never," he says, "I am more than proud to call you mine. I want everyone to know that you're mine. I'm the luckiest guy in the world."

I smile softly at him, "I love you."

"I love you so much. Let's go," he says.

He gets out of the truck before coming over to my side, and helping me out. He takes my hand, holding it tightly, and we walk in together.

"Maddie!" I hear faintly, over the music.

I turn around and see Catie, "Hey."

"I'm glad you came," she says, "Jake and Ashley aren't here."

I let out a breath of relief, "Good."

"You okay?" Caleb asks me.

I nod, "I'm good. I was just worried that Jake and Ashley would be here."

"They're not?"

"Nope. Thank God," I say softly, "I hope they don't show up."

"Me too. But if they do, they won't do anything to you. Okay?"

"Okay," I breathe out.

"Do you want something to drink?" He asks me.

"Water is fine," I tell him.

He walks over to where the drinks are, and I keep an eye on my surroundings. Gabby comes over to me, smiling, "Hey hey."

"Hey," I smile back.

"How are you feeling?"

"I'm okay," I say.

"Shit," I see Gabby looking over my shoulder.

"What?" I start to turn around, but Gabby stops me.