No Filter

Chapter LV (55)

Liam's POV

I waited downstairs for Jade. I wore a blue button-down shirt with a pair of jeans. I was forced to groom my hair, but I think it looked better being a mess. I try to stay positive about the date, but I cannot seem to get pass the fact that I am going on a date with my secretary. I mean, we work together. I think it's just me. I already have complicated feelings for Ally, and I don't need to feel anything for Jade. I'm doing this because Ally wanted me to give Jade a chance. And I will.

Ally is upstairs, helping Jade get ready. They've been up there for a while, and my patience was wearing thin. I take a step on the stairs and hold on the rail. I let out a breath and grip the rail. I bite my tongue and look ahead. It was just the wall. No one came yet.

I groan and look back at the living room. It was empty. Bear is with Lizzie and Mabel in the kitchen, making some kind of pastry. Ally and him are going to do some baking together after, but it doesn't seem like it's going to happen if it takes Ally to help Jade for this long.

Soon, I hear someone's footsteps from the top of the staircase. I look up, preparing myself to raise my voice, but Ally came out, and I, instead, ask, "What took so long?"

"We had to redo the makeup," Ally says. "And we had a little conversation." She tilts her head, examining me. "You didn't wait too long, did you?"

"Maybe just a tad," I answer. "Is she coming down?"

Ally nods her head. "Yes," Ally answers. "Now, put on a smile and cool down."

I bite my bottom lip and stare at her for a while. She came down and stood beside me. Jade enters, and she wore a floral strapless dress with a cardigan to cover her shoulders. Her hair was curled, and she looked stunning. Her smile complimented her very well.

"Sorry to keep you waiting," Jade says. "I wish it was faster."

"It's okay," I said. I let out my elbow as she came down. She folds her arm with mine. We face Ally, who held her hands together happily.

"Ally," I begin. "Please make sure Bear goes to bed at nine. If I find out you let him stay up, you know what the consequences will be."

"Yes, Mr. Payne," she says, and I bite my tongue.

"Good luck tonight," Jade says. "I hope you two have fun."

Ally chuckles. "I should be the one to be telling you two that," she says. Her eyes turn to Jade and only her. "I hope you guys have a fun time."

"See you," Jade says, waving a hand.

Ally smiles and glances at me before she walks into the dining room. Jade secures her hand on my arm and smiles. "Shall we go?"

I nod my head. "Let's," I reply. I lead her outside and into my car. I turn on the ignition and drive off into the street.

The ride was quiet. The radio filled the car with music, and Jade sat still, fidgeting with her nails. Every time I looked over, I catch her staring at me, and I would give her a smile to assure her that she doesn't need to worry.

A couple of songs passed, and I parked in the lot of the restaurant. Jade stayed seated while I rush to her side and open the door for her. I hold out my hand, and she takes it, blushing.

I shut the door, and we walk in. From the first step, I feel the breeze hit me. Jade shivers. "Are you cold?" I ask.

She shakes her head. "No, I'm good," she replies.

I nod my head and walk to the waiter, wearing a fancy tux, behind the podium. "Hello, um, name?" He asks me.

"Payne," I answer.