Finding You

Chapter 29

My hands remain clutched around his neck as his weave around my torso, resting comfortably on my hips. Nothing has been said between us as my face remains nestled in the crook of his neck, inhaling the sweet scent that is James Kennedy and savoring the moment for as long as I can.

"What are you doing here?" I ask, eventually pulling away from him to look him in the eyes.

"Sophie told me you were coming home today, and it's almost 9pm. There's no way you're taking an Uber home so late at night by yourself. Plus, I figured I needed to see the birthday girl before anybody else got the privilege to."

I smile widely as I listen. I've done it before–using Ubers late at night. In fact, I do it most times I go out at night because of my utter distaste for driving. However, appreciative of the gesture and the fact that I don't have to sit in the car with a complete stranger anymore, I decide not to say anything and merely thank him.

"Give me your bag," James instructs, and rotates the bag to follow him in the direction of the exit.

We make our way towards the car hastily, with the wind sending unwanted shivers down my spine as its iciness pierces through my layers of clothing. Finally spotting the Mustang, I move ahead of James and open the jack of the car as he lifts up my bag and settles it in before closing the door.

We enter the car, rubbing our hands and blowing on them to help warm them up again before he switches on the car. The Mustang's engine immediately roars to life and I revel in the familiar sound.  

"So, how was your trip back home?" his voice causes me to turn my head in his direction.

"Eventful," I laugh.

"How so?" James pulls out of the parking space and we set on course home.

"Family drama. Friends. But it was good for the most part, I guess. How was it here? Did you guys miss me too much?" I scrunch my nose, smiling.

"Miss you? I didn't even realize you were gone until I phoned you on your birthday," he smirks and I immediately laugh, remembering the conversation I had with Liv the day I left for LA.

She told me that James had been asking her millions of questions about my departure, and seemed a bit sad that I wouldn't be in New York for my birthday.

"Alright, whatever you say, Kennedy." I look out of the window before looking back at him. "So, where's Sophie? Why didn't she come with you?"

"She was all tired out today. Work killed her, so I figured I'd let her sleep and then she can see you tomorrow, when she's in a better state."

I nod my head, agreeing with him. I'd much rather see her when she is refreshed and energized. Plus, there's no telling what mood she'll be in when she's tired. I could be showered with hugs and kisses the first minute and then shouted at the next.

James reached a red robot, and takes the opportunity to connect his phone to the Bluetooth. Immediately, Fly Me to the Moon blasts through the speakers, causing an immediate smile on my face.

"You listen to Sinatra?" I ask, my mouth wide open.

"Does that surprise you?" he asks, a casual smile on his face with his eyebrow lifted.

"I mean, a little. Jazz doesn't seem like your genre type," I pause before continuing, "A pleasant surprise, though."

Instead of replying, James' smile merely widens and he begins belting the lyrics out, causing the most horrifying noise.

"Fly me to the moon, and let me play among the stars. Let me see what Spring is li-"

"Oh my God, stop. My ears can't bear it!" I laugh, interrupting his off-tune notes.