Open Book (One Direction Fan-Fiction)

Chapter 2: Walk

The next day I couldn't get the thought of Louis out if my mind. He was so nice and really the only guy I met around my age. I was hoping he could be my first real friend, but how was I supposed to find him again?

I decided to risk it and ask my mom if I could take a walk. I found her in the kitchen, filling out some papers. She looked up at me and smiled.

"Um, Mom?" I said quietly. "Can I ask you something?"

"Sure," Mom agreed. She set her pen down to give me her full attention. "Are you in trouble? Do you need me to buy you anything?"

A computer flashed through my mind. I wish. "I was actually wondering if I could go on a short walk through the neighborhood. Nothing far, just to get some exercise and fresh air."

Mom seemed startled at my question. "Well..." She looked down thoughtfully. "I guess. Just don't stay out long, okay, Grace?"

"Yes!" I exclaimed, leaning down to hug her. "Thank you so much! I promise to be back way in time for dinner. I love walks!"

Giving me a strange, confused smile, she turned back to her papers. "Bye, honey. See you in a bit."

I ran to my room and slipped on my tennis shoes before rushing out into the warm August air. The bus stop was only around the corner. I could only hope he was there.

To my disappointment, Louis wasn't in sight. But why had I even let my hopes rise? There was no good reason that he'd be here again.

"Hi, Grace! Funny to meet you here. Got any jars for me to save today?"

I grinned broadly and looked up at my newfound friend. "Nope," I replied. "I was just out taking a walk. How are you?"

"I'm good, thanks," Louis said politely. He gave me that strange look again like I was supposed to know him somehow. "You?"

"Happy," I slipped out. I hadn't met to say that, but it was true. My mom trusted me to leave the house for a while and I made my first friend ever.

Louis laughed. "You're certainly different than any other girls I've met," he said lightly. "It's pretty cool."

I looked down at my feet, embarrassed at the complement. "Thanks, Louis. I'm just being myself."

"Then don't ever change," he said seriously. "I really wish I could stay, but I have to get going. Can I have your number?"

"My number?" I stumbled over my words. We only had a home phone and if my mom found out a boy was calling me, I'd be dead. "I don't think it would be good for you to call me."

"Playing hard to get, aren't you?" Louis stated with a smirk. I gave him a confused look and he took a startled step back. "You've never heard that before?"

"No, sorry," I apologized. I wish I wasn't so sheltered, then I wouldn't be making a fool of myself right now. "So I guess I'll see you again?"

"Definitely," Louis answered. He glanced around. "How about we meet here same time tomorrow and walk somewhere?"

"Okay!" I eagerly accepted. I happily hugged him, much to his surprise. "See you tomorrow, Louis!"

"Bye, Gracie," he said quietly before walking off.

Gracie. No one's ever called me that before. I actually kind of like it. Now time to get home before Mom ties me to an anchor. I laughed at the image and raced home, excited for tomorrow.