The "Girl Next Door" is Cliche for a Reason

Chapter 20: You Brought the Dinosaur!

Max begged to leave the car when he saw where they were. Lexi pulled up in front of Nate's house instead of her old one and left the car with Max. She had to guide the dog to Nate's house instead of the old house and he happily went to find everyone inside once Mr. Hill let them in.

"When can I convince you to train our new puppy?" Mr. Hill asked, greeting Lexi with a hug.

"I'll have to wait until he's at least six months old," Lexi answered, "where is this puppy? Nate has only sent me photos."

He led her into the living room where the puppy was laying on the couch in between two pillows. Lexi picked up the puppy and smiled when she curled up against her.

"Don't let her get too far or she may steal the dog," Nate called out from the stairs with Max by his side.

"Steve was talking about getting another dog so your dog is safe," Lexi responded with a smile before placing the puppy back down. Mrs. Hill and Ellie were coming down the stairs as well.

"So where are you taking my son on this date?" Mr. Hill asked with a wide grin.

"We're headed to the beach," Lexi informed him, "I cannot tell you which one since it's supposed to be a surprise for this kid."

Mrs. Hill and Ellie hugged Lexi when they got downstairs. Betty came over and curled up next to the puppy after nudging Lexi's hand for attention.

"Well you kids be safe," Mrs. Hill began, trying to hide a smirk, "don't do anything that will make me mad at the two of you. And here's some money Nate, don't let her pay for anything."

"Mrs. Hill, I can pay for my own things," Lexi attempted to argue, "my mom even gave me money."

"Let her pay for gas," Mrs. Hill stated. "Now go before the beach gets too crowded and take Betty with you if it's not too much extra work."

Lexi couldn't help but laugh as she walked out of the house with Nate, Betty and Max. Nate helped Betty into the car while Lexi let Max in and got into the driver's seat. Nate made the dogs go in the back and took the middle seat so he could be right next to Lexi. When she looked over to scold him, he kissed her.

"You're a cheater," she mumbled before starting the drive. "How does Ellie like the new dog?"

"She loves the puppy. She was still pretty young when we got Betty so she doesn't remember how puppies are. Steve wants a dog?"

"Everyone pretty much knows Max is my dog. He looks after Luci constantly and curls up with anyone while they're reading. I think Steve wants a dog that has a stronger bond to him. Also a dog for Luci in case I take Max with me to college."

"You would take Max to college?"

"I was thinking of getting an apartment off campus and taking him with me, but I've also been told I should at least stay in the dorms first year. Speaking of college, I'm going to lunch with Carolina and Jose next week before they head back, would you like to join?"

"Let me know what day and I'll tell you whether or not the boys have made plans. How was the get together with your friends yesterday?"

"I got some good gifts this year. Mary and Emma were already gossiping about other people's gifts that were posted on social media. They were particularly chatty about the necklace you gave me and the fact that I've been posting more on social media since I got a smartphone."

"I like how a good chunk of those photos included me."

They chatted throughout the hour and a half ride until they got to the beach Lexi had wanted to bring him to. The beach was small and there were practically no cars in the lot. Lexi pointed out her favorite spots that they could make out from the lot. Nate put the harness and leash on Betty then Max before Lexi could and let him hop out of the truck. It was cold out and there was a nice breeze that tickled their necks. Lexi pulled on a scarf while Nate put on his camera around his neck.