“Hayley, what’s wrong?” Riker said, pulling me into his arms. I hid my face in my hands.
“I’m just… I’m just so happy.” I said, lifting my head up. Riker looked confused. “I just told him off, Riker. I did it! I did it without any help and the best part is he actually listened! He listened without throwing a sarcastic comeback.” I exclaimed. Riker squeezed me into a hug.
“I’m so proud of you.” He whispered. I pulled back and smiled at him. He looked so happy, which made me smile wider. We started walking again. I clutched onto his arm. “Did you see his face!?” Riker asked.
“Oh my gosh, yes! He looked like he was gonna cry.” I giggled.
“Yeah. You’re words really hit him.”
“I’m glad.” I said. We walked in silence for a few minutes. Then I realized I had no idea where we were going, but I didn’t mind. As long as I was with Riker, it’s didn’t matter.
“I think this deserves a celebration.” Riker said suddenly.
“Really?” I asked, confused.
“Yeah. How about we go out to eat at a restaurant? My treat?” He offered.
“Riker, I’d love to, but wouldn’t it be weird if I walk into a fancy restaurant with tracks shorts, an old t-shirt and sneakers?” I said. Riker thought about it and then his eyes lit up.
“Come on.” He said, grabbing my hand and pulling me.
We ended up at his house, which I’d never been too. He unlocked the door and let me in.
“Oh, you must be Hayley. How are you, sweetheart? I’m Stormie, Riker’s mom. Riker has told me so much about you.” Stormie said, pulling me in for a hug. I have never actually seen her before. Just once when we went to the beach. “Riker, you were right. She is beautiful.” Riker’s face flushed in embarrassment.
“Mom.” He whined. I giggled.
“Oops sorry sweetie.” She said. “Well come, Hayley. You have to meet the others.” She pulled me into the living room. I gave a nervous glance to Riker. Ross, who I’d met already at the beach was there, two brunettes who looked similar to Riker were there and a really pretty blonde girl. They were all sitting on the couch playing video games. Riker put his hand on my shoulder.
“Guys, this is Hayley.” He said. They all stopped and looked at me. I smiled, nervously.
“Ahh, the famous Hayley.” The taller brunette said. “I’m Rocky.”
“Hi.” I said.
“Hayley, this is my brother Ryland.” Riker said, gesturing to the other brunette. I smiled at him. “You know Ross, right?”
“Yeah. Hi Ross.” I said. Ross smiled.
“And finally my sister, Rydel.” Riker said. Rydel got up and took my hands.
“Hi, I’m Rydel. I love your hair.” She said, admiring my curls.
“Thank you.” I smiled back.
“So, we’re going out to eat and I need you to do your girly magic and help Hayley get ready.” Riker said to Rydel.
“Sure! I can’t wait! This is gonna be so fun.” Rydel exclaimed. She took my arm and pulled me upstairs.
