Fate's Identity

Chapter 28

I observe the mirror. Liam told me not to wear anything formal. Something nice, casual, and fun. I pull my hair back into a ponytail. I put on a sweater with my shorts. I grab my hand purse and trot down the stairs.

As I enter the kitchen, I hear distinct voices behind me, coming from the living room. One spoke out, "Where are you going?"

Hearing Normani's voice, I stop in my tracks. I turn around and see Normani and Dinah in the living room. "I, uh, I have a study session..." I answer.

"It's a weekend," Normani points out.

Dinah sighs and pokes Normani on the shoulder. "Mani, just let her go. You know how Ally is," Dinah said. I smile a little, grateful that Dinah helped me out.

"Okay, have fun," Normani said.

"Yeah, but not too much fun," Dinah winks at me. My heart jumps, and my cheeks redden.

I said my farewells and walk out of the house. I stand on the step of the last stair ad I spot him walking up to me - dressed in a light blue button up shirt with jeans. I smile as we made eye contact.

"You look beautiful, Ms. Hernandez," he comments, standing in front of me.

I blush. "You look dashing yourself, Mr. Payne."

We chuckle a little. He raised his elbow, and I intertwined my arm under it. We walk to his car, sharing some few exchange of words. I try multiple times to make him tell me where we were going, but no matter how much I tried, he wouldn't budge.

He opens the door for me, and I thank him. I step inside the vehicle and rest in the front seat. I buckle up as he gets inside.

"Well, wherever you're taking me," I begin, "I can't wait."

He replies, starting the engine, "Don't worry. I'm sure you're going to like it. It took me a while to figure it out, but I just hope I can plaster that smile of yours onto your face for the rest of the night." He brings his hand up and pinches my cheek.

I smile and grab his hold. "I think you're doing that already," I said.

Liam smiles proudly and kissed the back of my palm. He released my hand, shifting the gear and backing out of the his driveway.

The car ride was filled with small conversations about the weather and some things we spotted in the environment. At some point, I was given permission to turn on the radio. I adjust the volume and switch the station.

Approximately thirty minutes, we arrive at our destination. I look out the window and see the building in front of us. A big neon light sign hanged on the top of the doors. Wally's I read. I have a feeling this was more of an arcade than a restaurant with their imagery.

"An arcade?" I question, turning back to Liam.

Liam nods his head, unbuckling his seatbelt. "Yes. We'll see how skilled you are when it comes to games."

I shrug. "I don't know. I've never been to one."

His eyes widen, shocked and a little scarred for me. "What?!" He questions. "Well, today is your lucky day. I'll show you some of my tricks." I roll my eyes playfully.

We exit the car, and I hear it lock. My two feet catches up with Liam; we walk side to side. "So why exactly did you pick this place?" I ask.

He looks at me and smirks, "You'll find out soon enough."

I shake my head. What's up with him holding things from me?

Liam opens the door for me, and I enter the building with him following me. We were instantly met by an employee behind the counter. "Hello," he greets. "Welcome to Wally's. What would you like?"