Falter

Chapter 37 - second chances

HUNTER

"Oh man, that was a nice goal!" I tapped Vic's shoulder and he gave me a thumbs up. We're all sweaty and panting and now we're just resting on the bleachers. I grabbed my backpack and took my phone out. Checking messages from Eliza. Few were sent five minutes ago, saying she already went home and will sleep because of the stomach flu she has. I mentally note to take home those blueberry-filled croissants she always liked. I texted her that I just finished the game and will be home in a few minutes. She'll probably read it later when she wakes up, if I'm not there already.

"So, when do you plan for us to meet this girl of yours?" Henry asked and I just smiled. I plan for Eliza to meet all of them but it would still be her decision, not mine. With her being so protective of what we have, she wouldn't want every single one she meets to know about us.

"I don't know, man. When the time is right, I guess."

I received a couple of mock laughs and comments from them but I just laughed. They can be tough pals to be with sometimes but they're real friends that I have back home. With all the things I face everyday being a model and an actor, it's good to come home to friends who don't treat you differently.

I picked up my bag and told them it was time for me to go home. They invited me for lunch outside but Eliza has the flu, I can't leave her alone for long.

Once I'm in the car, I changed out of my wet shirt and changed my shoes to sliders. I drove to the bakery and parked outside. Once I'm inside, the line is not that long, I scan the croissants and find what Eliza loves and get up to the line. I've been meaning to get her coffee as well, mocha Frappuccino with extra caramel syrup on top.

The cashier checked my purchase and I handed her my credit card. One of the few people in the line recognized me and asked for a picture, I obliged and smiled for the camera. I thanked her and hugged her just in time the barista called out my name. I'm about to leave the café when a hand prevented me from opening the glass door.

"Hunter..."

"Millie..."

I faced her, feeling all brave and forgiving.

"Can we talk?" she asked, her eyes pleading and somehow, I could see red under them. She must be crying but I don't feel that same comforting side for her, instead, I nod and sit down across from her, near the entrance.

"Has Jamie been talking to you?" I asked.

"Yes, she has, and I know you have been generous with me, Hunter but I need one more favor."

She's wringing her fingers and that's a sign she's terribly nervous about something.

"What is it?" I asked, trying to sound calm.

"I want us together to visit her. With your family."

I shake my head almost not welcoming the thought but Evee's voice reminds me that for me to let Eliza in, I need to let go of my past. And I should take this as a sign that this is finally closure, the one thing I've been asking for all these years.

"Yeah, sure. I just need to tell Mom about it and we're good."

I'm also surprised with the way I approached and answered her. She was too, with her wide eyes and her mouth agape. She reached out to me and squeezed my closed hand, still holding the paper bag and the drink on the other one.

"Thank you so much, Hunter. This means so much to me. And thank you for buying the lake house..."

I felt her touch but it was not captivating anymore. It was only skin deep, only on the surface, skin touching skin and no heart skipping. I genuinely smiled at her which I haven't even done for the past years.