Walkman [Lashton AU]

Chapter 10

-November, 1991 | love is like a mixtape.

It was the most frightening feeling ever.

Luke didn't know what Aleisha might do now. He isn't sure what she's thinking, if she's thinking anything at all. The way he defensively announced he was talking to Ashton made his actions very confusing. He isn't sure if he was conveying too much concern or interest; what if she thinks he has a crush on Ashton?

Well, he does.

However, how would she react? He didn't know. Aleisha was a very passionate person and she cared for others, even if she shows it in a weird way. She defended gay people and stood up for rights. But, what if she reacts differently because Luke is dating her? She might be angry and tell everyone. Aleisha may support gay rights, but that doesn't mean she supports him.

Since it was Sunday and Luke hasn't seen her all weekend, he was very nervous. He thought about calling her many times and chickened out each time. She scared him a lot and he can't imagine what she's thinking. Not to mention, he was also worried about Ashton. He hung up on him and the boy was having a very hard time when he did.

Luke was so anxious, he wanted to call him so badly but he was waiting for his parents to go to bed. He knew they would hear him on the phone, which is why he waited so long, eagerly trying to call him. To talk to Ashton and hopefully meet up. They really needed to figure out everything and get it all in the open.

Eventually Luke gave up and he made sure his parents were busy, peeking down the staircase. Then he picked up his phone and dialed Ashton's number, which he had saved by the phone. As the phone rang, Luke anxiously tapped his foot and peeked toward his door nervously. He didn't want to get caught, he's been grounded long enough.

"Hello?" a feminine voice slurred over the phone. "Hellllo? Anyone there?"

"Hi," Luke said awkwardly. "Um, hello, this is a friend of Ashton's."

"Friend? Didn't know he had friends," the woman murmured in a joking manner. He assumed.

"Can I please talk to him? It's important," he said timidly, unsure of how to approach this woman. He figured this was Ashton's mum, who from their conversations on the hotline, was an alcoholic.

There was some mumbling on the phone and then he heard the woman calling Ashton's name rather loudly. He bit his bottom lip, glancing around his room while he waited. He then heard a familiar voice which was muffled as bickering was heard through the phone. He grimaced a bit, hoping he didn't cause any trouble.

Then he heard Ashton groan and pick up the phone, saying sharply, "Andrew, I really can't deal with this shit right now, can you—"

"It's Luke," he interrupted before he could regret it.

It was silent and he felt his heart racing. He didn't know what to expect. For some reason, he thought it would all be good and maybe Ashton wouldn't be upset.

However, Ashton groaned, "Oh God, I can't believe you—"

"Wait, please don't hang up," Luke said frantically.

"And why shouldn't I? I'm really not in a good mood," Ashton murmured, voice low. "And talking to you isn't making that mood any better."

Luke winced at his words, but told him softly, "I am so fucking sorry, Ashton. I am honestly sorry. You're right. It is on me; everything that goes wrong with us is my fault and I take that blame. But, can we please talk about this? I - I miss you a lot. it's only been a week but you even said after school the other day that it's likely we can still be friends."