Carved

CHAPTER 10

DYLAN

Becker.

The last person I wanted to see, especially tonight.  I was hoping I would be able to talk to Ella. I wanted to tell her how I feel.  Hoping we could work things out. Dex told me Becker was going to be in California all week.  I watched as he ran up, wrapped his arms around Ella and twirled her around. My stomach turned with the sight of her in his arms again.  I couldn’t believe they were back together. My Aunt couldn’t stop talking about how lovely Ella is after they went out for lunch. I had to walk away, because I couldn’t hear anymore.  I should leave now too, but I won’t. I need to stay. I need to try to win her over. This is going to be torture. Be with me. Please, be with me.  

“They gave me a job promotion.  Can you believe it? I felt like celebrating.    I don’t need to go to the convention now. I thought I would ask to see if you would like to go for a bite to eat, but saw the party.  Is it okay if I stay?”

Ella nods her head hesitantly.  His eyes look a little red and he was stumbling a bit when he walked up.  He may have been celebrating before he arrived here. I’m not letting Ella go anywhere with him.    

“Dylan.” Becker puts his hand out for me to shake.  “Have you been taking care of my girl?” 

My girl.  Well soon I hope.  “Not as much as I would like.  I’ll be able to spend more time with her in New York.  It should be fun. They’ll be back to have something to celebrate.  As well as her birthday and the Halloween parade.”

I look at Ella.  She’s looking down but her lips curl up slightly.  Could that be a smile? It was a tradition to go to our spot before the Halloween parade.  This is what I wanted to talk to Ella about also. We always seal it with a kiss – on the lips.  The only way that will happen is if she leaves Becker. I can’t believe they are together again.  

“Oh, I can’t wait for Halloween.”  Carina squeaks. She has one of the most annoying voices.  “I already bought a French maid outfit.”

I raise my eyebrows.  Would Ella ever wear a French maid costume?  I bet her costumes are not like the cute little princess costumes she used to wear.  I better sit down before they notice another shift in my pants. I grab a seat and pull one out for Ella so she can sit as well.  Becker can find his own damn seat.  

“Sorry, Becker, we don’t have any other chairs.”  Whisper says.

“That’s okay.  Ella, you can sit on my lap?”  Shit!

“I’ll stand.”  I grab Ella’s hand quickly and pull my chair out for her while I stand behind her.  Take that Becker!  

 “So is everybody going to the Halloween party at Mrs. Skuld’s old manor to meet the new neighbors?  Stacey and I are trying to talk the guys into going. They invited almost the whole neighborhood.” Carina continues her talk about Halloween.

“They already moved in?”  Ella frown.   
  
“I’m not sure.  There was an architect and interior decorator there this week.”  Noah responds.  

“Don’t worry darling.  The party is in a couple weeks.  I’m sure they didn’t change it too much.  I know how much you love that old house.” Becker kisses her hand.  I hate my cousin. 

“Are we going to finish playing or what?  I’m starting to sober up.” Brent taps an empty shot glass on the table for attention.  “Ella, Becker, Dylan? You in?” 

“Sure, what are you playing?”  Becker says.

“I Never.”

“I’m in, but I think Ella will sit out.”  Becker answers.