The Fatal Flaw | LT

XLIV

CHAPTER XLIV

December

It's been a week since we visited my brother and it's been a rough week for both me and Louis.

I have been spending the week at his house, trying to savor each moment before I finally do the right thing.

Our relationship was going down in spiral and I was doing everything to delay it. Louis doesn't even know our relationship was slowly coming to an end as I let the guilt only for myself. I knew he was going to try and change my mind, another promise ring, another chance at fixing our life but I didn't want to be the girl who makes him choose.

This past week, I listen to him stumble through the door of his room, wincing with every move he makes. I didn't dare touch him on his back and ribs instead when he's asleep I sneak a peek at how our relationship was leaving marks on his body.

He was trying to be there for me each day, he would be there when during my lunch period, he would be there waiting for me when my classes ends, he would be there when I have my free time, taking me out on dates and spontaneous activities and he would be texting me how he wanted me to spend the night at his house and I obliged every time. Better make the most out of it, yeah?

I flinch every time his phone rings when we're together; I always knew it was his coach calling when he subtly excuses himself as he takes the call. I always watch as he tries to mask his exhausted and frustrated face with his signature grin just for my sake.

I knew he was happy when he's with me. He always tells me how I was the source of his strength but if I wasn't in the picture, would he need that refill of strength?

"Vee?" Louis asked as he rolled over my side and pulled me closer to him. "You awake?"

"Yes." I managed to say the truth instead of acting like I was sleeping like I did the past couple of days.

"What're you thinking about?" His voice was laced with sleep but he sounded so good.

"Nothing. Just excited for you tomorrow." I half-lied as I subtly wiped my tears and faced him.

I brushed his hair out of his forehead and cupped his cheek with my hand. I almost broke down when he closed his eyes and leaned into my hand.

Forgive me, my sweet love, if I need to hurt you. It's all for you, my love.

"You are?" he breathed out with a smile.

"Aren't you?"

"To be honest I'm nervous as fuck." He chuckled but I knew he was serious.

"Why?"

"In case I would suck."

"Lou, you are the greatest player I have ever seen in my life." I said honestly.

"But you are obliged to say that because I'm your boyfriend." He pouted.

"No, you are my boyfriend and I am obliged to tell you the truth, not sugar coat it." I said as I prop myself up with an elbow, my index finger drawing circles in his white-shirt clad chest.

"Plus, you haven't seen many games, so you haven't seen a lot of players." He chuckled.

"Baby, you'll do great." I said and continued drawing circles at his chest. I felt him staring at me so I stopped and looked up to meet his eyes. "What?"

"Baby, huh? I love the sound of that." He said as he climbed on top of me, still staring keenly at my eyes.

"Baby." I giggled from under him.