Fire Doesn't Burn

Victoria

Embers float into the night sky as the fire in front of us continues to burn brightly.

I glance at Layla who was curled up in Tristan's lap and wonder if it would be nice to be held by someone.

A tear threatens to leave my eye but I won't let it. I am strong and know one day I'll have someone too, yet I still want to feel that kind of love.

"V?" My eyes flicked up to Oliver then to everyone else staring at me.

"You okay?" He asks concern written on his face.

"Yeah I think I just zoned out pretty hard, I mean it is very relaxing out here," I said looking up towards the stars.

Oliver didn't seem to believe me but looked up too " Nights like these are ones I'll never forget."

Everyone hummed in agreement while I thanked Oliver in my head for not asking any questions.

We sat peacefully for a few more hours making small talk and joking around till it got late and the fire started to die.

It was around midnight when we decided to head home for the night.

Tristan picked up Layla who had fallen asleep and carried her to my car while Oliver helped me clean up.

"So how is work going?" Oliver asked breaking the silence.

"You know you don't have to force small talk with me," I laughed.

"I know just seems like you weren't really here tonight."

He was right I wasn't really here I was lost in my thoughts most of the night.

"I'm just tired from this new job and haven't really had anytime to relax." I lied straight through my teeth hoping he'd believe me

"I understand work can be tough but don't stress V you'll catch on in no time."

I sent him a small smile then grabbed my stuff to head out I couldn't take the awkward talk anymore.

"I better get going I have a shift in the morning and I need to get Layla to bed."

Oliver nodded giving me a small hug before I headed to my car.

I walked to the front of Oliver and Tristan's house to where my small car was parked.

Looking up Tristan has Layla half way in the car and half way out.

I smacked my forehead

"Hey Tristan! She's supposed to be all the way in the car for the door to close!" I yell laughing at his frustrated face.

Getting close to my car Tristan is still struggling.

"Come on just let me get her in you always struggle."

He throws his head down in defeat looking at me in jealousy.

I shake Layla's shoulder slightly and she barely opens her eyes.

"Layla hun it's time to go home can you get the rest of you in the car?"

She grunts but starts moving and gets the rest of herself in the car before passing back out.

"How!?" Tristan whisper yells at me.

"Well if you don't full on wake her up and you talk sweet to her she usually will do it."