No Filter

Chapter LII (52)

Ally's POV

It was the night of Christmas Eve. Bear was snuggled in bed as I flip the page and begin reading the text, showing Bear the illustration. I rest beside him and finish reading.

"...the bell still rings for me as it does for all who truly believe."

I close the book and look at a smiling Bear. I set the book on down on my lap and return the warm smile.

"Is it true?" Bear asks. "The bell?"

"Well, it's only if you believe," I reply.

"Do you believe?" He asks.

I nod my head. "Yes, I do," I answer.

Bear smiles and says, "Then I do too." I rub his arm and kiss him on the forehead.

Someone cleared their throat, and we turn over to see Liam standing in the doorway. He arms crossed and he leaned against the edge of the wall. "Mr. Bear, I believe it is passed your bedtime."

"Aw," Bear pouts. "But I want Ms. Hernandez to read me another story. Can she read me another story?"

"No, son," he says. "I'm sorry, but Ms. Hernandez has to get up early tomorrow."

"I do?" I question.

He nods his head. "Yes. Now, Bear, lights out."

Bear wraps his arms around me, and I hug him back. "See you in the morning," he said. I rub his back and brush his hair.

"Same here," I said.

Once we part, I stand up and set the book to the side. I walk up to Liam and wait until Liam wished Bear a good night sleep. I turn off the light switch, leaving the lamp's light on the nightstand on. Liam and I walk out. And as we walk, I ask, "Mr. Payne, is there something urgent tomorrow morning?"

"It's Christmas morning, and my son likes to get up early, so I want to make sure you wake up the same time as him," he explains. "And no one is going to be up by that time, so I'm scared he might run out of the house or something."

I nod my head. "Okay," I respond. "You can count on me."

"Good," he said. "I know you won't let me down."

He opens the door to my room, and we stood between the doorway. "Is there anything I can get you?" he asks. "Anything you might feel uncomfortable with?"

I shake my head. "No, I'm good," I reply. In the corner of my eyes, I couldn't help feel like there was something above me. I raise my head and found a mistletoe hanging. Who put that there?

I look back at Liam, and he saw it as well. My heart skips a beat, and I look at his lips. I seal my lips and breathe in deeply. I couldn't do it. I step inside and shut the door in front of him. I lean against the door, touching my chest. I felt guilty that I just slammed the door in his face. But I couldn't kiss him. The last time we almost kiss, I couldn't bring myself to kiss him. As much as I wanted to as well. I had to think of an excuse, and I lie to him. But it was for Jade's sake. We're both friends, and it is not good to kiss the guy your friend likes, especially if he is your boss or your high school friend.

Old feelings were rising back, and I wanted to suppress them. How on Earth did I fall back to loving him again? I moved on. At least, I thought I did. Losing him was one of the most painful experiences because I loved him. Right now, I just have to keep it low key.

I shake my head and walk to my bed. I get under the sheets and rest for the night. Tomorrow is Christmas, and I am happy. I close eyes and let my mind drift away.
—
"Wake up! Wake up!" I hear Bear shout as he bounces on my bed. I moan and rub my eyes. I open my eyes shortly after. The lights are still off in my room, but the light streamed through the window was brightening my room slowly. I lift my head. Bear jumped beside me, shaking my arm.