It's always been you.

Chapter 8

This was the first time I’ve ever been to Florida. It looks and feels the same as California. Hot, humid, and filled with beaches.

A taxi driver dove the four of us to our hotel, the Hilton. We paid the driver and got out to check in. Luckily, our hotel rooms were right down the hall from each other.

The other boys from Magcon were also on the same floor because we heard shouts and screams of teenage boys that I recognized after we went to check out our rooms and drop off our bags.

“You two cool if we looked around for a while? We will meet up here in two hours. Matt, don’t forget we have dinner reservations at 7:00”, Shawn asked Matt and I. “Go ahead and have fun,” Matt answered. Cam and Shawn left. My attention turned toward Matt. But, that meant he and I were alone for a while. He grabbed my hand and pulled me down the hall running. We were laughing by the time we got to the elevator.

“So, what now?” I asked. He had a big smile on his face. Wasn’t sure if it was a good thing or not. “I hope you like surprises.” He told me.

-

Matt called a taxi like he has done it his whole life. Our hands were still intertwined together; he pulled me into the car once it came to a stop next to the sidewalk. He whispered something to the taxi driver then leaned back into his seat smiling. “Where are we going?” I begged. “It’s a surprise. You will have to wait missy.” He answered holding up his finger. “Matthew Lee…Tell me now or else!” I half shouted. “Or else what, Hannah grace?” he asked with a grin. Leaned his head toward me and rested his head on his hand. I got in his face all confident. Dang it, I forgot what I was going to say. “Or-or…” I trailed off. “Ha! I guess you will have to wait.” He said. “Fine” I replied joking.

 Out my window were huge buildings that passed by in a blur. The city here was wonderful. Lights flashed and music blasted from down the block. I craned my neck to see, but I couldn’t see where the music was coming from. “We’re here,” the taxi driver told us while looking through the rear view mirror, “$13.95 please” Matt handed him the money. “Thank you so much” Matt said.

Matt got out of the taxi and I followed right behind him. He started to walk toward the direction of the music. It was a crazy idea, but, hoping he would catch me, I ran forward and jumped on his back.

Thank God he knew what I was doing; Matt held me underneath my legs and started to run forward. “NO!” I shouted, scared he would drop me, “Put me down” I said between laughs because I didn’t think he would start running. He reluctantly let go off my legs when he stopped and turned towards me. “I would never drop you, unless you don’t trust me?” he said sarcastically. His hand came towards me to brush the hair out of my face. “Oh, I trust you alright”, I said mimicking his sarcastic voice.

 “Anyway, so, where are we?” I asked looking around. This place seemed amazing to live here. Everything was alive and full of energy. People were all over the place walking. Cities were my favorite place to live. Ever since I was little, it was my dream to live in a city when I grew up. “I come here every time I’m in Florida. I’m going to take you to my favorite place in the whole state.” Matt exclaimed.

No words came out of my mouth. You would only know how that feels if you have ever been really excited about something. Above the doors was the sign that read: Orlando Ice Form. He was taking me ice skating. I probably looked like with a five year old jumping up and down. A warm smile crept onto his face, showing his teeth. “What?” I stopped jumping and looked at him. “Oh, it’s nothing. I just think you look beautiful when you’re happy.” Matt answered. I blushed, but didn’t hide it.

His arm reached toward me and wrapped around my side. I did the same, making our way inside the building. A blast of cold air hit me. I suddenly got the goose bumps on my arms. He looked at my arms, which made me feel insecure. “Would you like my hoodie?” he asked pointing. No way was he serious, it was his favorite jacket. He didn’t let anyone wear it. “No, no, it’s okay. I will be fine.” I told him shaking my head, even though I wanted it, I didn’t want to be rude. He wouldn’t take no for an answer, “Here take it anyway. You need it more than me.” He said.

Immediately, he started pulling off his white hoodie. His shirt slid up in the process, letting me see his abs, which I don’t think he did on purpose. I bit my lip and made eye contact with Matt hoping he wouldn’t notice me staring.

The sleeves were huge. They hung three inches off my figure tips and were baggie on the sides. I didn’t care because it was really warm. “Thanks, I feel better already.” I said.

A young lady to our right had ice skates on selves behind her. We got our skates and managed to put them on. I was a size 8 and Matt was an 11. If you didn’t know already, you have to put skates on tight so they won’t fall of, of course. My skates wouldn’t get tight enough. Matt had to come over and help me. “Thanks, I owe you one.”

_____________________________

Sorry my loves, I haven't posted in awhile. I have been caught up in all of my school work. Just for you guys, I will try to update more. My weekends I think will be free, so that means more time to write for all of you.

Dont forget that you're awesome and I love you all.

Stay classy~

Liz