The War on Love

Chapter 5

I took a deep breath. AGAIN. I was so nervous. The premier was tonight. I'm sitting in the back of a black car next to Thomas. He looks so relaxed as if he's done this a thousand times. But then again, he HAS done this a lot.

The car comes to a stop and he turns and smiles at me. "Remember, pretty smile, good posture, and just be yourself. Stick by me and I promise everything will be perfect."

The door opens and I am instantly greeted by flashes of cameras. Thomas smiles and steps out of the car before holding out a hand to me. I put my hand in his and he helps me from the car. "Thank you," I mumble.

"Of course, love," he says, waving and smiling at people all around us.

Reporters throw a thousand questions at us at once. "Who is she? Where's Isabella? Is this your new girlfriend?" All of which were politely ignored. His arm snakes around my waist, gaining a dozen more flashes from paparazzi and anyone else who happened to take notice.

"What are you doing?"

"Don't ask questions, love."

I refrain from letting my usual scowl take over my features and discreetly elbow him in the ribcage. He releases a MMPH and tightens his grip so his fingers are digging into my side causing for a great deal of uncomfort. "Thomas, that hurts," I mumble.

"Yes, well, my side hurts and I'm pretty sure I will have a bruise the exact shape and size of your elbow tomorrow."

"Then don't be rude."

He snorts quietly and turns it into laughter for the cameras. "Look who's talking," he whispers.

"I take that offensively."

"You were supposed to, love."

"Would you like a bigger bruise?" I warn.

"Preferably not. I'm just saying you aren't the exactly the most mannered person in the world."

"Wow. Thanks," I grumble sarcastically.

"I didn't mean anything by it, love. I'm just teasing."

Part of me wanted to believe him, but I knew he wasn't. I kept the frown off my face. I have to admit, it kind of hurt. I found myself wanting to impress him. How could I if he thought I was rude? I just don't understand why I want his approval so badly... He's just a friend. Right?

His fingers dig back into my side, snapping me to attention. "Emmalyn, are you alright? You zoned out there for a second," he mumbles, staring me in the eyes, concern evident in his voice.

I nod, "Yeah. Fine. Just thinking."

He scowls, not seeming to care what the paparazzi think. "Are you sure?"

"Yes, Thomas. I'm fine, I promise," I assure, rolling my eyes.

"Okay. Just tell me if you don't feel well, alright?"

"Your overprotective."

It's his turn to roll his eyes. "Just being nice. Now, promise."

"Fine. I promise."

"Good girl." He begins to lean close to my cheek but stops and bites his lip and awkwardly turns his head forward again.

What the hell? I sigh and keep my eyes forward and put a small smile back on my lips.

----------------------------------------------------

We don't leave the premier until about midnight. I met all of Thomas's co-stars. Ki Hong Lee was probably the one I liked the most. He was rather humorous even if he was a major flirt (that didn't impress Thomas all that much...). He also had REALLY nice hair. I liked it. A lot.