Love and Friendship

Thirteen

Nathan: Hey Tony, is she ok?

Nathan stood up when he saw Tony walking out of Selena's room. He looks like crap not able to sleep well knowing Selena passed out on him last night. She looks so fragile and how he wished he could wipe out all the hurt she has.

Tony: Yeah. She is ok. We talked for a bit. I'm gonna freshen up and head out to get breakfast.

Leo: There is no need bro, I got it covered. I went out to get some bagels and croissants from the nearby cafe. Even got cappucinos for all. Not sure what you all want.

Tony: Thanks Leo. I really appreciate it.

To be honest, Leo needed to get out. His mind is racing and he cannot stay still not knowing about Selena. Nathan looked a wreck and he didnt even speak to him much since last night.

Leo: (thinking) Nate seems to really like Selena to be like this.

Although they are best friends, Leo does not want to lose to Nathan on getting Selena. He has come to really care for her. He knows that he is starting to develop strong feelings for her.

Nathan helped Leo set out the breakfast but he is so deep in thought.

Leo: Hey Nate. I want to apologise for my words last night. Im sure you have your reasons to why you choose to keep to yourself. I wont push you. I want you to know whatever it is, Im here if you wanna talk.

Nathan: Thanks Leo. I appreciate that. I am sorry for snapping at you. It was uncalled for.

Just then, Selena came out of her room. She wore a baggy tshirt and crop pants with her long dark hair up in a ponytail. Although she smiled at them, her eyes looked sad.

Selena: Good morning guys. I didnt know you are still here.

Leo: Ya. We are concern about you. We want to be here for you and Tony.

Selena smiled at him and kiss his cheeks.

Selena: Thanks Leo.

Tony: Hey Sel. Lets eat.

They sat eating in silence till Selena broke it with a suggestion.

Selena: Are u guys up for the beach? We could stay at the resort tonight and come back tomorrow? I know it is short notice but I think I need to get away. I could bring Ava.

The guys are up for it and before long, Leo and Nathan went home to pack. They agreed to meet at the resort itself.

--

In the car enroute to the resort, Selena was silent looking out the window. Tony  gave her space but he cant help feeling guilty for her knowing. If he just kept it to his grave, she wouldnt be sad.

Selena: Thanks Tony for always looking out for me.

She said softly.

Tony: I always look out for you. We have known each other like forever and you are like the sister I never had. I hope you forgive me for not telling you sooner.

Selena: It's ok. If our roles were reversed, I would do the same. Erm Tony?

Tony: Yeah?

Selena: I know you are looking out for me but can I get you to trust me to lead my own life?

Tony frown but didnt say anything. Selena saw that he is gripping the steering wheel a bit more tightly.

Selena continued: I am still your baby sister. (She smiled). I will always be with you. Annoying you as always. And you are the first person I want to talk to about anything and your opinions are still most important to me.

Tony looked to Selena concerned. He knows he has to let go. She is an adult now. He cannot control her forever.

Tony: I dont like it but I trust you. I will never stop looking out for you.

Selena hugged Tony's arms.

--

When they arrived at the resort, they saw Nathan, Leo and Ava already there.  They checked into their individual rooms and decide to meet for lunch.

Selena changed out into a tank top with a batik beach wrap skirt and decided to go to the beach before lunch.

There were not many people there despite it being the weekend. She found a nice spot near a bunch of kids building a sandcastle and sat there looking out.

So many things were running inside her head and she is trying to come to terms with it. All this and with both Nathan and Leo in her head. It is so muddled for her, she needs a breather from the outside world.

Nathan: Im really sorry for what had happened to you.

Selena didnt notice him sitting beside her. He looks so hot in his tshirt and bermudas which makes her want to kiss him right there.

Selena smiled faintly at him and looked out into the sea.

They sat in silence for a couple of minutes before he asked.

Nathan: You know... We didnt quite talk about what happen the other day.

Selena: You mean when you stole my first kiss?

Nathan gasped wide eyed.

Nathan: It.. was..?

Selena: Did you regret it?

Nathan: Oh god no! I didnt really want it to end.

Selena: Me too.

Nathan raised his eyebrows at her.

Nathan: But... I cant do this. Relationships. Its too complicated. My life is too complicated for this. I really dont want to hurt you. Not after what you've experience.

Selena: Do u have feelings for me Nathan?

Nathan looked away. She turned his face to her and ask again.

Selena: Tell me. Do you have feelings for me?

Nathan: Yes Selena. Im falling for you each day that Im scared. Im scared to pull you in. My life is not so simple and there are many things I cant tell you. I could really end up hurting you.

Selena lean in to kiss him. When they pulled apart, she has tears in her eyes.

Selena: Im falling for you too Nate. So much. I want to live the moment not worrying about my past or future. I dont want you to step on eggshells around me. Im not that fragile. I think I can handle things. We can handle things together. What do you say we try?

With that, Nathan started to kiss her again. More passionately this time. And he has never felt so happy to hear that.