5 comments/ 33327 views/ 26 favorites Always in My Life Ch. 01 By: AlwaysAlone1986 I would like to thank Kayli1001 for taking the time to edit this story. ********* Always in My Life Ch. 1 His smile was so gorgeous. I think I fell in love with his smile before I fell in love with him, although I can't say for sure because I have known Spencer my whole life, it's just that it took me nearly two decades to realize I was completely in love with him. He was my best friend. I spent every spare minute with him, hanging out. He had this amazing ability to make me laugh even when I was angry at him. He didn't feel the same way about me as I did him. At least it never seemed to be the case. We had never talked about being more than friends but he never flirted with me or let on that he found me attractive so I was resigned to unrequited love. I walked from the supermarket to Spencer's place. It was a cold winter's Saturday night in Melbourne. The wind was icy and blew straight through my jacket making me shiver. Neither of us had felt like going out so we agreed to have a movie night at his place instead. His house mate, Jack, answered the door and informed me Spencer was in his room. I figured since some of Jack's friends were on the couch watching the footy, Spencer and I would be watching the movies in his room. I walked straight through the house to his room. I tossed the bag of snacks on his desk and then flopped on the bed next to him. "So we are banished to the bedroom once again," I said and looked over at him. He was so handsome. Light brown hair that always looked adorably ruffled like he never bothered to brush it. He had amazing hazel eyes that I loved to look at. Spencer was tall, easily six foot, and he was lean and toned. Years of playing every sport possible at school and while at uni had left him with an amazing body. "Footy trumps movie night every time," he replied with a smile, putting his book down on the bedside table. "So what are we watching tonight?" "I thought we would start with a classic," he said, still smiling and held up a copy of Silence of the Lambs. "Nice, I love this movie" "Seriously, Edie, I know you better than anyone. I knew that," he continued, chuckling. It was true. Spencer knew just about everything about me. There were few secrets I kept from him. One of them was my being desperately in love with him. The other was why I hadn't had a boyfriend since I was eighteen. But that was something I hadn't shared with anyone. "Right," I smiled at him. God, how much I loved his smile. His eyes always sparkled when he smiled. It made him look carefree and unbreakable. "Let's get this movie night started then, shall we?" he said as he got out of bed. He was already wearing his pajamas. Well, if you call fleece trackies and old t-shirt pajamas. I on the other hand was in jeans and wore several layers under my jacket, which I had yet to take off, mainly because Spencer's house was so cold. They only had heating in the main living room and since it was an old house it was pretty drafty. No wonder Spencer had like three quilts on his bed. God I wished he would just fork out some money for a portable heater for his room, specifically for nights like this. That way I wouldn't have to wear so many layers. He got the DVD set up and on his way back to bed grabbed the bag of junk food I had bought. As he got back under the covers, he dumped it on the bed between us. I sat up and rested my back against the headboard. He opened a packet of lollies and offered them to me before digging in himself. Always the gentleman, I thought. We both settled down and started watching the movie. "It's pretty cold tonight, Edie. Why don't you get under the blankets," he offered, about ten minutes into the movie. "I didn't bring any other clothes and you know how I hate wearing my clothes in bed," I replied casually, without looking away from the movie. "I'll be fine." "No you won't. I give it another fifteen minutes before you are shivering. Even I can feel the cold draft tonight. Just get under the covers." "No, I don't want my clothes to get all wrinkly and that laid-in and slept-in look. I know some people love that grungy look but I hate it," I replied sharply. Besides I hated lying around in my clothes. It made me feel like a bum. That and I was a perfectionist, always having to look my best. Which to me wasn't really that special anyway. I was average height with average curves. I had blonde hair but then so did about a third of the population. The only thing I found exceptional about myself were my eyes. They were a grey-blue, closer to blue but not quite completely. "Solution!" Spencer said after a few minutes consideration. I thought he had given up on it and was refocused on the movie and Hannibal Lecter. I looked at him sharply, letting him know I wasn't pleased with his constant interruptions. It was my favourite movie after all. "Just take you clothes off." "What?!" I think my mouth gaped. I was definitely shocked by that invitation. Even my heart was pounding at the suggestion of stripping in front of Spencer. "No way!" "Settle down" he replied with a chuckle. "I didn't get me naked. I am almost positive you have a singlet on under your many layers. So just strip off your jeans and first few layers." He said it as if were the most casual thing in the world for me to strip down to my undies in front of him. "Contrary to what you may believe, Spencer, I do not just strip down to my underwear in front of people. I will stay as I am," I replied harshly. As if I would let him see me like that. As if I would let anyone see me like that. "Eed, it's me. Come on, you're being silly." "No, Spencer." "Ah, I see, you're modest," he said, as though it were an epiphany. "Okay, here's the deal. I will face away from you while you strip and get under the covers. I won't even see anything." "It's not just that, Spence. I'm not comfortable with it," I replied. "Why are you pushing so hard?" "Because I know you're going to get cold out there. Look, you're already cold, you haven't even taken you jacket off and you have a jumper on under that and, knowing you, god knows how many other layers." "Three," I replied with a smile. He laughed at that and it was beautiful. I loved that sound more than I loved my favourite song. It was deep and smooth. "Fine, but please don't look," I relented. "Okay, tell me when you're covered again," he replied triumphantly, and rolled to his side so he could no longer see me. I took off my jeans, jacket, jumper and t-shirt and set them neatly on the back of his desk chair so that they wouldn't get creased. I had been watching Spencer the whole time to make sure he didn't look. I had never voluntarily exposed so much of my body to a guy before and I didn't want Spencer to be the first. Well, not in this particular situation anyway. If he were to see me in my underwear, I hoped it would be because he was returning my love and slowly stripping me before making slow gentle love with me. Yeah, right, as if that was going to happen in this life time. Spencer barely noticed I was a girl half the time. I quickly slipped under the covers and settled into the bed as far away from Spencer's body as possible. Although he was my best friend and I trusted him completely, I was damaged. Being in my underwear with any man, even Spencer, made me feel extremely uncomfortable and exposed. I would often hug Spencer or cuddle up with him while we watched movies, but those times I was fully clothed. That wouldn't be happening tonight and I hoped he wouldn't try because then I would have to explain as to why I hated the touch of any man. "Can I turn around now?" Spencer asked once I was under the covers. "Yes," I replied softly. "Want some chocolate?" he asked when he rolled back over. He broke off some chocolate and gave some to me without waiting for my reply. "Warmer now?" he asked as he settled back down beside me. "Yes," I replied. I was feeling incredibly uncomfortable. I could feel Spencer's body heat next to me. He was too close. At least there was something between us to protect me before. Now there was nothing. "You all right, Edie?" Spencer asked with concern. "I'm fine Spencer. Can we just watch the movie please?" I snapped and tried to focus on the movie but all I could focus on was how close Spencer was to me. Usually being this close wouldn't bother me so much, but tonight there were no clothes to protect me. I was too vulnerable and it scared me. As the movie continued, we watched in silence, eating the snacks until we had a stomach ache and Spencer put them on the floor to take away the temptation. Thankfully Spencer seemed to understand that I wanted to keep a distance between us. Once again we settled down to watch the movie. I started to get really comfortable and cozy in Spencer's bed. I could smell him on the sheets and quilts. He had an amazing smell that would instantly comfort me. Eventually my eyes started to get heavy and I drifted off to sleep. ************* "Edie!" I heard Spencer say just before I felt his hand on my thigh. My eyes shot open and I saw he was leaning over me, his hand on my leg. I panicked like I never thought I would with Spencer. But he was looming over me. He was too close! "Get the fuck off me!" I snapped as I bolted upright. He looked at me with confusion, shock and concern in his eyes, but his hand didn't move. I think he was just in too much shock trying to figure why I was reacting like that. "Get off me!" I insisted and pushed his hand away from me. "Edie?" he asked as I got out of his bed. "Edie?" he repeated and grabbed my wrist. "Don't fucken touch me, Spencer!" I cried. I knew he wouldn't hurt me and I was acting like a crazy person but he touched me too intimately. It had brought back the memories of that night when I was eighteen. The night my boyfriend forced me. The night he raped me. "Please, Spencer, just let me go," I pleaded, crying as I tried to pull away so I could get my clothes to get dressed and run. "Edie? What's wrong?" he asked as he released my arm and got out of bed to stand in front of me. I never realized how much taller and broader he was. At that moment his size was threatening and I didn't like it. I stepped back away from him but backed into his dresser. "Why are you crying?" he asked softly reaching out to me, but I flinched and cowered away from him. He looked so confused. I didn't realize until then that I was crying so hard my chest hurt. I was barely breathing between sobs. "Why are you freaking out?" "Why did you have to push me?" I cried at him. "Why did you have to touch me?" "What? Edie, you have to tell me what's wrong," he pleaded with me, but this time he didn't take a step towards me. He didn't reach out to me. He just stood towering over me. "I want to go home," I whispered and let my gaze drop to the floor. "Please, Spencer?" I pleaded softly and pushed past him to get to my clothes. "Edie, did someone hurt you?" he asked as I pulled on my jeans. I didn't say anything. My back was to him. I didn't want him to know my shame. "Edie, talk to me. Please!" he pleaded. "Please!" I turned and looked at him. His eyes were glazed with unshed tears. I had never seen him cry. My reaction was hurting him too. "No," I replied softly, and then continued getting dressed. "Tell me what I did wrong. Tell why you are so upset. Tell me what happened to you." He was pleading with me. "I don't want to talk about it, Spencer," I replied, putting on my jacket and slipping my shoes on at the same time. "Please tell me, Edie. I need to know how I hurt you." "I said I don't want to talk about it, Spencer. Just drop it!" I shouted and then walked out of his room. "No!" he called after me. As I walked through the lounge I saw everyone turn and stare at me. "I need to know." "No you don't," I called back to him as I reached the door. "Please, Edie. Talk to me." "I'm sorry," I said softly, turning to look at him once more before leaving. "Trouble in paradise?" I heard Jack tease as I closed the door. "Shut the fuck up," Spencer snapped just before the door clicked shut. The night was cold and very dark. I couldn't see the moon and it only added to my fears for the night. I cried softly the whole walk home; I was cold, scared and all alone, fighting memories that had given me nightmares for years. I hated myself for treating Spencer the way that I did but I was mad at him for forcing me out of my comfort zone and then touching me. I hadn't let any guy touch me since I was eighteen and that night with Tommy Hassel. It was too painful. I was too dirty. By the time I got back to my apartment Spencer had called me about three times on my mobile and twice on the home phone. I didn't answer any of his calls or listen to any of his messages. Instead I changed into a pair of pj bottoms and a t-shirt before curling up in bed and crying myself to sleep, trying to fight all the painful memories that Spencer's seemingly innocent touch brought back. I woke up about two after a vivid nightmare. I was just lying staring at the ceiling, wondering if I should go and watch TV to distract myself for a few hours when I got another text message. I knew it was Spencer and I felt alone enough to want to talk to him, so I opened and read the message. "Please just tell me you got home safely. I'm really worried." I closed my phone and slumped back in bed. Even after I spoke to him like I had, he was still worried. I wanted to hear his voice; I needed to talk to him. I picked up my phone and dialed his number. "Hi," I said softly. My voice was hoarse from all the crying I had done. "Edie, are you okay?" he asked. "No," I replied and started to cry softly again. "But it was nothing you did." I continued. "Do you want to talk about it?" "Not over the phone," I replied softly. "I'm sorry I freaked, Spencer." "I'm sorry I pushed you so hard to talk." "Can you come over?" I asked, realizing I didn't want to be alone anymore. "Please?" I continued when he hesitated. "Sure, I am already walking out the door." "Thank you." Always in My Life Ch. 02 Once again I would like to thank kayli1001 for editing this chapter. And also I would like to thank those who commented on the first chapter. I hope this chapter gets such a great response. Enjoy!!! ************ I didn't move from my bed until I heard his knock on my apartment door. I practically ran to the door to let him in. His face was full of concern and fear. He was afraid of how I would react, no doubt. "I'm so sorry for yelling at you," I apologized once we were settled on the couch. "I know I hurt you," I continued softly. "I'm not mad, Edie," he said gently. "Just confused." "I know." "I don't understand what I did to make you react like that." "I know and that's why I have to talk to you," I replied, and looked into his amazing hazel eyes that were full of concern. "Please tell me what I did to make you react like that," he pleaded when I didn't start talking. "You touched me," I said quickly. He looked confused. "I was already feeling so vulnerable because I was there in my underwear next to you, and then I woke up with your hand on my leg and leaning over the top of me." "I was trying to wak you up." "I know, but when I felt your hand and then saw you over me I freaked out. All I could think about was how much bigger and stronger you were than me," which he was. Spencer was tall and muscular, where I was petite and thin. "I would never hurt you." "I know that and my rational brain was screaming that at me while I took out all my fears on you." "Will you tell me why you were afraid?" he asked gently tipping his head to look me in the eyes. I nodded and took a deep breath to gather my courage. "I was raped," I said quietly. "By whom?" he asked in a tone that assured me he knew but wanted confirmation. "Tommy Hassel," I replied softly, unable to look at him. "Well I guess that explains why one day you were totally smitten and then the next wouldn't even talk to him." "Then tonight when I woke up with you over me, all those feelings of being trapped just came back and I flipped. I'm sorry," I said, and then started to cry. "Why didn't you tell anyone?" "I was ashamed. And he was my boyfriend. He was supposed to love me, but instead he pushed me into a bedroom at a party and forced me to have sex with him," I said through the tears. "Was that your first time?" "And only," I whispered. "I was so scared and he was so mean. It hurt so much but the more I struggled the more he got off." "Edie, did he use protection?" "No," I replied without looking up at him. "But I went and got the morning after pill the next day, and then a few weeks later I went and got tested for any STDs." "But you never told anyone it was rape?" he asked, and I shook my head no. "So for five years you've been carrying this around and never spoke a word to anyone." "I didn't know who to tell," I said, and broke down crying. I knew he was scared to touch me now so I had to go to him for comfort. I moved my body close to his and buried my face in his chest as I cried. "Little one, I had no idea you were hurting all these years," he said softly as his arms wrapped around me and held me. When I finally stopped crying he pulled away from me and looked into my eyes. "You feel better now?" he asked with a gentle smile. He knew me well enough to know that sometimes I just needed to cry. I nodded and offered a weak smile. "Will you stay the night?" I asked shyly. I didn't want to be alone and it was well after three by this time. "Sure. I'll crash in the spare room," he offered. I had a small two bedroom apartment, although I had never had a roommate. When my sister came to visit, or my parents, they would stay in there. That's why I got a two bedroom. "Actually, could you stay with me in my bed? I just want some comfort." "Sure thing, little one." When Spencer climbed into bed with me he kept his distance. He seemed uncomfortable. I smiled at him shyly before moving my body close to his. I wasn't touching him but I was close enough to feel the warmth of his body and it was enough to help me relax and fall asleep . I woke up the next morning with Spencer wrapped around my body, his arm placed protectively around my waist and his body pressed tightly against my back. My legs were tangled with his, and I could feel every breath against the back of my neck. I knew at that moment that this was what I wanted every morning - to feel protected, to be held. But only by Spencer. I couldn't imagine feeling that safe with another man. I sighed contentedly and snuggled my body a little closer to Spencer's, although I wasn't sure if it was possible to get closer to him. At my movement I received a sleepy moan while his arm tightened around me. Then I felt his lips on the back of my neck. I stiffened immediately and so did Spencer. "Oh shit, Edie. I'm so sorry," he said quickly, and he was surprisingly alert considering he just woke up. His arm loosened around me, giving me the escape I desperately wanted. "What was that?" I asked sitting up and looking at him. I was so confused. That was definitely not something Spencer had ever done with me before. "That was not the kind of thing a friend does," I stated. He looked so scared and embarrassed. "It was something a lover would do" I added softly. Not that I knew what went on with lovers. After all, I had never had one. "Why would you kiss me like that?" "Honestly?" he asked, with the look of a child about to be scolded after being caught lying. I nodded softly. He sat up on the bed next to me and looked directly into my eyes. "I have always dreamed about waking with you in my arms and, well, when I woke up, there you were all warm and soft and you smelt amazing," he said with an embarrassed smile. Spencer dreamt of me? "I guess I just figured I was dreaming so I kissed your neck like I always did in my dreams," he shrugged. "Oh," was my intelligent reply to his statement. Of course with my limited experience of one boyfriend who raped me, I had no idea what this meant. "I'm sorry I made you feel uncomfortable, little one," he said softly. "But waking up with you wrapped tightly in my arms made this the singularly best day ever." What the heck did that mean? "You've got to know how beautiful I think you are, Edie," he continued. Obviously my silence was confusing to him. But I had no idea what he was saying. Was he telling me he wanted me? "You do?" I asked quietly and shyly. "The most beautiful girl I have ever known." He smiled, and it was his infectious smile that always ended in me smiling with him. That morning was no exception, although it was a very shy and uncertain smile. "And I have been in love with you for a long time," he admitted. I swear my heart actually stopped beating for a second. I know I stopped breathing. Actually now I thought I was dreaming. "Really?" I asked softly, still shocked and convinced it wasn't really. "Yes, but you never seemed interested in me, or really anyone for that matter," he explained. "I understand why now but I never said anything because you were way too important to lose." "I never thought you could love me like I love you," I whispered and dropped my eyes shyly. "You feel the same way?" he asked quietly. "Ever since I was about twelve," I said, with an embarrassed laugh. "I love you, Edie Walker," he whispered, and then kissed me softly on the lips. It was perfect. No other kiss would ever top it. Well, at least that's what I thought at the time. "I love you, Spencer Baxter." I smiled when he pulled away. "You're so beautiful" he said softly, and brushed some of my sleep-tussled hair from my face. "Will you be my girlfriend?" he asked, with a cheeky smile. Aww...he was so cute. "I guess so," I replied with a shrug, and then we both started laughing. He pulled me into a gentle hug. "I'll make us some breakfast. Why don't you have a shower and then after breakfast we can go shopping? I need new shoes for work," he said, pulling away from the hug but letting one hand rest on my knee. His gentle touch didn't freak me out this time. It made me feel secure. "Okay, but only if I get to go shoe shopping too," I replied with a smile. "Okay," he agreed, with an exaggerated sigh. I giggled and pecked him on the lips quickly before getting up and trotting off to the bathroom. The only thing different about the outing with Spencer that day was that he held my hand, kissed my forehead, cheek, or lips at every opportunity and never let me out of his sight. It was a great day and I was already a hundred times happier than I had ever been. ************* Friday night came again and Spencer asked me if we could redo our movie night, since my breakdown had spoiled the last one. I pretended to be angry at his teasing but one gentle kiss on my pouting lips made me smile. It totally ruined the effect. When I got to Spencer's I went to the bathroom and changed from my work clothes to some trackie pants and a t-shirt. I didn't want a repeat of last week, and it was definitely colder this week. He was still in the kitchen getting us some snacks and drinks when I was done, so I made myself comfortable in his bed. On his side of the bed, of course. He always had this earthy smell to him that I loved. "I must be the luckiest guy in the world," Spencer smiled as he walked into his room, closing the door behind him. "I didn't even have to say anything to get you into my bed," he teased. "I must be more charming than I thought," he laughed and put the drinks and snacks on his bedside table before climbing under the covers with me. I decided not to comment on his belief that he was so charming. I knew I would be able to tease him the moment he realized I was in trackie pants. He made a big production of snuggling up with me as I tried to warm up under the covers. I felt his legs tangle with mine, obviously seeking skin to connect with considering he was wearing boxers. "Aww...you're wearing pants," he said. I could tell he was pouting. "That's right, buddy," I replied playfully. "There's no way you could talk me into stripping down to my undies two weeks in a row." "I guess I'm not as charming as I thought, then," he replied with amusement. "No, I guess not." I laughed. We watched the movie sitting side by side sharing the lollies and chips. In the end, I found myself cuddled up against his side and falling asleep before the movie finished. I only woke briefly when Spencer rolled me away from him to get out of bed and switch off the TV. As soon as he got back in I snuggled up to him again and drifted back to sleep. There had been no discussion about me staying over, but when he didn't wake to tell me it was time to go home, I assumed it was an invitation to stay. I was hot and sweating when I woke up sometime in the middle of the night. Spencer was still wrapped around my body. His hold felt almost protective. I could feel his slow even breaths against my neck, so I knew he was sleeping. Since I was too hot in my tracksuit pants, I decided to take them off. I tried to move as little as possible as I wriggled out of my pants. Just as I dumped them on the floor and settled back down I felt Spencer kiss the back of my neck softly. "You okay, beautiful?" he whispered in a sleepy voice as he pulled me tighter and wrapped his legs around mine. But as soon as he found that he encountered skin he pulled his legs away from mine. "Just got hot, that's all," I replied, and moved my legs back to touch his again. I wanted the contact and knew that if I initiated it he would be comfortable with it. "Oh, okay," he whispered, and it was obvious he was falling asleep again. I woke up in the morning to the delicious feeling of Spencer's kisses on the nape of my neck. His kisses were soft and loving and in no way meant to seduce me. He just liked to kiss me. "Mmm..." was my very articulate morning greeting. He chuckled against my skin, causing me to shudder. "Good morning to you too, beautiful," he said, with his lips still on my skin. I loved it when he called me beautiful. "Mmm..." I moaned softly. "Mmm...is right," he teased, and continued his torturous kisses. "You smell amazing, Edie," he said. I managed to untangle my legs from his and turn around in his embrace. I smiled at him shyly. "So is it still a dream come true?" I asked before I kissed him gently on the lips. "No, sweetheart," he smiled. "It's a thousand times better than any dream or fantasy," he continued in a low sexy voice that sent chills down my spine. "That deserves a kiss," I replied with a smile. "Yeah? What kind of kiss?" Spencer asked playfully as he brushed my fringe from my eyes. "The best kind," I whispered, before kissing him softly and teasingly on the lips. When I broke away from the kiss, Spencer's lips followed mine. His kiss was more insistent than mine but it was absolutely delicious. We had kissed dozens of times over the past week but none of them felt like this kiss. This kiss was soft, demanding, intense, sweet and passionate. And I didn't want it to end. I parted my lips when I felt his tongue dance across my lips. His kiss was different from the other two boys I had kissed. His tongue played with mine lightly - teasing and caressing me. I moved my body slightly closer to his so I was touching his body. I needed the contact. "Yo, Spence, you wanna..." Jack started saying as he burst into Spencer's room. Spencer and I ended our amazing kiss at Jack's interruption, but I didn't move away. I wanted to feel his body against mine. "Oh, sorry," Jack said and looked between Spencer and me. "I thought you had gone home last night, Squirt," Jack said to me. He called me Squirt because I was tiny compared to him and Spencer. "Well, clearly I stayed," I replied with a smile. I loved that he was so confused. The two of us hadn't made an official announcement to anyone that we were seeing each other, so I could understand why Jack was shocked to find me in bed kissing Spencer. Okay. We were making out. "Obviously," Jack said, with a smile that immediately turned mischievous. "Dude, either she must be super quiet or you're losing your touch," he teased Spencer, who immediately blushed while I buried my face in his shirt and giggled. Spencer had been a bit of a ladies' man, although he had confessed to me during the week that he was a womanizer because he couldn't have the one girl he truly wanted - Me. "Jack," Spencer started, "have you met my new girlfriend, Edie, who I am treating with respect by taking the relationship at her pace?" "New girlfriend, eh?" Jack smiled playfully. "Yes, and we were enjoying a morning in bed together," Spencer replied. "So what is it you came to ask?" "Oh, right. I'm meeting the guys at the park for a game of footy. Wanna come?" "Can't, sorry. Going to visit my brother today." "All right, but you two will stop by the pub tonight, right?" Jack asked. "I wouldn't miss you guys playing for the world," I replied with a smile. Jack played in a band and whilst they were nowhere near famous they had a small fan base. Even so, they were one of my favourites. "Sweet. I will make sure we play your song, Squirt," Jack said with a smile. Jack and Spencer had been roommates since uni and ended up being best friends, which of course meant that Jack and I had become good friends also. Although, over the five years I have known Jack, he has become like a big brother. That was the only reason he got away with calling me Squirt. "The boys are going to be heart-broken now that you're officially off the market." "Officially?" I asked. That was a strange thing to say. "Well, yeah," Jack said with a casual shrug. "Since you were Spencer's best friend and he was totally in love with you, you were off limits." "Oh," I said. I clearly didn't function well in the morning, especially when I'm pressed up against Spencer, who had just put his hand on my hip. "If any one of us even mentioned asking you out, Spence here would get very prickly," Jack said, teasing Spencer. "Oh really?" I asked, with a sweet smile at Spencer. I had always wondered why none of Spencer's friends ever tried to ask me out. They all flirted with me, so I kind of figured they found me attractive, but none had asked me for a date. "I would just remind them that asking you out was a long-time thing. You were not fling material," he said as he gently stroked the skin above my panties. With him touching me like that it was hard to be mad at him. "I love you," I whispered, and kissed him gently. "Eww...guys keep the PDA to a minimum, thanks," Jack teased. "PDA?" Spencer asked with raised eyebrows. "This is hardly public, mate. This is my bedroom that you barged into." "Whatever," Jack laughed. "I'm happy for you guys." "Thanks," I smiled, and then remembered something that would really cheer Jack up. "I forgot to tell you that Beth has decided to transfer Uni's" I said. Beth was my little sister. She had just turned twenty, making her three years younger than me. And Jack had a major crush on her. But of course he wouldn't admit it to anyone. Whenever they met they would fight. It was incredible to watch. They were obviously fighting their attraction to each other. "I didn't know that, little one," Spencer said with a little hurt look on his face. I pecked him quickly on the lips and it seemed all was forgiven. "She called me yesterday at work and said she was moving to RMIT to study journalism and creative writing. She's staying with me for a bit while she looks for a part-time job and her own place," I saw Jack's eyes light up when I said she was staying with me. That meant I would be hanging out with her constantly, which meant she would be at Spencer's and Jack's place constantly also. Spencer and I grew up in a country town of a few thousand people. Spencer's family ran the town pub, while mine ran the café. We both moved to Melbourne for uni and have stayed for work. Spencer was a consultant engineer, whilst I was an accountant. Beth had been studying science, but a year into her course she decided she didn't want to be a scientist. She wanted to write. Of course, it took her a year of working at mum's and dad's café to decide that. Then she decided she wanted to live in Melbourne, not Sydney, which is where she had been studying previously. And I was so excited that she was coming to live in Melbourne. Beth and I were close. We have two other sisters. Gracie was 28 and Morgan was 15. Morgan was the family accident. Nobody was more surprised to find out mum was pregnant again than mum. But because Beth and I were so close in age we bonded, and she was the closest female friend I ever had. "When is she arriving? Maybe we could throw her a welcome party?" Spencer asked. He loved Beth like she was his own little sister, although Spencer was basically the son my parents never had. "Next weekend," I replied. "We'll have it here and have a barbie or something," Jack said. "I will let her know and make sure she hasn't made other plans," I replied. I knew Beth wouldn't, because my friends and I were the only people she knew in Melbourne. But I just really wanted to tease Jack. "Oh, okay," Jack said, struggling to hide his disappointment. "You're so evil," Spencer whispered in my ear. I giggled softly. "Anyway, I will leave you two lovebirds to enjoy your morning together," Jack smiled. "See you tonight." And then he was gone, closing the door behind him. I snuggled into Spencer, resting my head against his chest while he continued to stroke my hip. "What time are you leaving to go to Charlie's?" I asked. Charlie lived a couple of hours out of Melbourne with his wife, Jilly, and their two kids. He was a couple of years older than Spencer and me, but they were reasonably close. Always in My Life Ch. 02 "We will be leaving in about an hour, I suppose," he replied, and brushed a kiss on my forehead. "What?" I said, and lifted my head to look at his face. "You haven't seen Charlie in months. I don't want to intrude on your family time." "Well, since you're my girlfriend now, I want you to intrude," he said with a smile. "Besides, you haven't seen the kids in ages. Last time I went little Katie was asking about you." "She's only five. I bet she doesn't even remember me," I replied. "Well, I know Jilly would love to have some girl talk with you." "Fine, I'll go," I said, making it sound like I didn't want to even though I was really excited. "But I have to go home and shower first." "Okay. Jack is still here so if you hurry you might be able to con a lift home with him and then I will pick you up in about an hour. We'll stop and get some breakfast on the way." "Good plan." I smiled and kissed him quickly before getting out of bed. "Oh my god!" Spencer moaned. I turned and looked at him over my shoulder in confusion. "God, you have amazing legs, Edie," he said when he saw my raised eyebrow. "Is that so?" I asked playfully, and crawled back on the bed and straddled his body. "Yes it is" he smiled, and ran his hands up my thighs. "Great ass too" he continued, and reached around to cup my ass. "Well, enjoy your grope because it's the last you'll get for today," I teased, before kissing him quickly and jumping off the bed to get dressed. "You really are evil," he laughed as I pulled my jeans on. "Yep," I said, pulling on a jumper. "I'll see you later." I picked up my bag and kissed him on the cheek before running out to catch Jack, who was just about to leave. Always in My Life Ch. 03 Hi all, Sorry it took so long for this chapter to be posted but I had to travel for work. Unfortunately, that means being stuck in the middle of nowhere Western Australia. But I finally have some internet, it was a hassle but that's a story for another day. Thanks to Kayli1001 who edited this chapter for me. And also thanks to those who are thoughtful enough to send me feedback. I'm really surprised at the response I am getting. So thanks and keep it coming! Enjoy! AlwaysAlone1986 * We had only been driving for half an hour. Spencer had arrived with coffee and muffins for breakfast. However, once I had eaten, I got bored. I had always hated long car rides. I didn't like the enclosed space or having to sit still. I think Spencer had forgotten that little quirk in my personality. Otherwise I doubted he would have invited me on this mini road trip. It was over a two-hour drive to Spencer's brother's house and I was starting to get bored even though we had barely been on the road for ten minutes. I picked up Spencer's iPod that was playing randomly through the radio. I didn't ask for permission. I just started searching for songs I liked. I think I must have changed songs about five times in a few minutes when he reached over and yanked the iPod from my hands. "Something wrong?" I chuckled and looked over at him. He was so adorable when he was annoyed at me. "I remember now why I stopped inviting you on long car rides," he said while looking at me. I grinned at him innocently. "It's like trying to entertain a two-year-old." He was trying to be serious but I saw the corners of his mouth twitch. I laughed softly at his frustration. "We're barely out of town, Edie, and you're so restless you're practically twitching." Now he was blatantly teasing me. "Well, clearly you're not doing enough to entertain me. I'm so bored." I smiled sweetly at him as we pulled up at a light and he looked at me again. "What is it about being in a car that makes you so restless?" he asked with a smile. We loved to tease each other. "By the way, you're banned from the iPod for the duration of the trip." "That's not fair," I pouted playfully. "What am I supposed to do for an hour?" I started playing with the electric window, just to be annoying. It was fun teasing Spencer. But after a couple of minutes Spencer put the child lock on that. He was a total killjoy. "I'm bored," I whined, and crossed my arms across my chest and pouted. "I know, beautiful," he smiled and squeezed my thigh. "Did I mention that I wanted to kill Jack for interrupting us this morning?" he asked casually, and I knew he was using talk about our amazing kiss to distract me. "Really?" I asked with surprise. "Yes," he laughed. "It was by far the best kiss I have ever experienced." "Me, too," I said with a sigh. God, how I wanted to kiss him like that again. I always thought that I would never be able to trust a guy enough to have sex, but I was already thinking that I would be able to give Spencer my body within a few weeks. "I just wanted to tell you that even though that kiss excited me to no end I would never pressure you for more," he said. "And I don't expect more than your company when you stay the night in my bed, or if you invite me into yours." "So you don't mind waiting a little while before we have sex?" "Of course not," he smiled. We had stopped at a traffic light, so he also leaned over and kissed me on the cheek. "I love you and would never do anything to hurt you." "I trust you." I smiled and put my hand in the one of his that was resting on his thigh. "Good, because I wanted to ask you to stay at my place again tonight. It's just we'll be getting home late. I thought it would be easier." "You don't have to justify wanting me to stay at your house, Spence. If you want me to stay just ask." "So will you stay with me tonight?" "Of course" I smiled. It was almost lunchtime by the time we got to his brother's. As soon we were out of the car Spencer wrapped me up in a hug and kissed me gently. "C'mon, beautiful. Lets go tell my brother I finally got you." I giggled into his shoulder. He took my hand in his as we walked up the front steps. We waited patiently after he rang the bell. I could hear the kids inside running towards the door. Of course, they knew Uncle Spencer was coming to visit. The door swung open to reveal the gorgeous fiery red curls of Katie, Spencer's five- year-old niece. "EDIE!" Katie squealed, and launched herself at me. "Hey, princess," I smiled, and lifted her into my arms. She wrapped her little arms around my neck and her legs around my waist and held me tightly. "You are getting so big. Pretty soon you'll be a grown up." I said as I looked at her face. She was such a beautiful child, but when you saw her mum you would understand why. "I missed you, Edie," she chirped, and kissed me on the cheek. "You never come visit," she whined. "I know. I will try and visit again sooner next time." I smiled. "Excuse me, little miss, but where is my welcome?" Spencer asked and then started tickling Katie. She giggled and squirmed against my body but wouldn't let go. "Hi, Uncle Spence," she smiled at him between giggles. "Where's my kiss?" he asked and tapped his lips playfully. He leaned towards her and pursed his lips. She gave him a quick kiss on the lips, then giggled again. "Come in, you guys," Jilly said as she appeared at the door "Katie, why don't you hop down from Edie?" Jilly chided gently. "No!" Katie said and clung to me tighter as I walked into the house in front of Spencer. "It's great to see you, Edie," Jilly said with her sweet smile. She gave me a quick kiss on the cheek before greeting Spencer the same way. "I hope I'm not imposing," I said politely. After all, they had no idea I was coming. "Of course not, sweetie. You're practically Charlie's little sister anyway," she laughed and led us through to the back yard. "You know, Katie, I have a present for you" Spencer said with a smile. When her little eyes grew wide with excitement, he continued. "Of course it's in my pocket and you will have to let go of Edie to get it." She squirmed down from my arms so fast I had to laugh. Then she went about very excitedly searching Spencer's pockets until she found a lollipop. Then she ran outside screaming for her dad to show him what she got. "She's so beautiful, Jilly," I commented as we stepped out onto the deck. "Trust me, the little boys in her class think so too," Jilly laughed, followed by mine and Spencer's. "EEEEE!!!" came a little scream. I looked towards the sound and saw little Josh running towards me with his chubby little toddler arms stretched out wide. It had been over six months since I saw these kids and I honestly didn't think Josh would remember me. He was only two. He couldn't say my name last time I saw him either so he just called me E. "E!" he squealed as I got down on one knee so he could hug me. He hit me so hard I almost lost my balance and fell. I laughed as I picked him up for a cuddle. "Geez, they love you more than me," Spencer grumbled with a mock pout. "Aww...poor Spencer," Jilly teased. "Josh, do you have a kiss for Edie?" she asked the little boy in my arms. I turned to look at his face and was rewarded with a wet kiss on the lips. "We've only been together for a week and you're already kissing other guys. That hurts, beautiful" Spencer pouted again. I laughed when I saw the shock on Jilly's face. "Well, how could I resist this handsome fella?" I teased, and kissed Josh on the forehead. He rested his head on my shoulder and snuggled his face into my neck. "Well, he did get his looks from his uncle," Spencer replied, as he kissed me on the forehead. "I can't believe you two finally got together. I thought I would have to wait forever for that to happen," Jilly commented. "Yeah, we finally got our act together," I smiled. "Hey, Edie," Charlie said, coming up onto the deck from the back yard. "Looks like my little man is in love with you," he teased gently, looking at Josh snuggled into the crook of my neck. "He hasn't much liked being held lately," he explained. "Is that right?" I asked Josh, whose little head popped up at my question. He smiled that sweet little smiled and squealed "E!" before throwing his arms around my neck again and squeezing tightly. "I think he's trying to steal your girlfriend, Spence," Jilly teased. Charlie's jaw dropped. His eyes asked the question that we all knew was on his mind. Jilly just nodded and smiled. "'Bout time, Spence," Charlie laughed and slapped him on the back. "Anyway I got a new ride-on mower. Come check it out," he continued as he then led Spencer into the shed. Jilly and I sat on their deck chairs and I figured Josh would get down and go play with his sister. But instead he rested his head on my breast. "I guess he wants to nap on you today," Jilly chuckled. "He usually likes to nap on the couch." "I guess the kids missed me," I shrugged. "Actually, Katie asks me all the time about you," Jilly replied. "But I'm dying to know how it happened." "How what happened?" I asked, knowing exactly what she wanted. But I couldn't help teasing the impatient redhead. She leveled her deep green eyes on me. "How you and Spence got together?" she asked. "It's all because I had a major freak-out last weekend and flipped out on Spence," I said enigmatically. "What'd you flip out about?" "We were in his bed watching a movie, and then I fell asleep and woke up with Spencer's hand on my thigh and him leaning over me. I felt trapped and scared and just flipped out. I was yelling at him and crying and in the end I just walked out." "Why would Spencer touching you freak you out so much?" I took a deep breath to calm my nerves. I knew I could tell Jilly. She was a psychologist. She would understand. Plus, talking about it is supposed to help. "When I was eighteen I was at a party with my one and only boyfriend. About halfway through the night, after he got drunk, he dragged me into one of the bedrooms and started kissing me. I pushed him away and told him I didn't want to do anything there. I mean we were at a stranger's house. Anyway he got angry and pushed me onto the bed," I said. I had to pause because the memories were too strong. I hadn't gone into any details with Spencer and I never planned to, unless he asked. "He told me he was sick of waiting and he was going to get what he wanted. He ripped my shirt open and pulled my bra down enough so he could grope my breasts while he shoved his tongue down my throat. I was pushing at him, begging him to stop. At one point I bit his tongue. But he hit me. Then he undid my pants and pulled them and my panties from my body. I was screaming for help but it was a party and the music was so loud. God, when he entered me it felt like I was being ripped apart. He just kept on pumping till he was done. Then, after he kissed my forehead, he told me I was great and walked out of the room as if nothing had happened." "Oh my god, Edie. Please tell me you went to the police," Jilly asked. "No, but I did go to the doctor and got tested for STD's." "So when you woke up and saw Spencer, who is quite a bit bigger than you, leaning over your body you had a flashback and freaked out?" "Exactly," I nodded. "I stormed out of Spence's house. Then I cried myself to sleep. At about two a.m., I woke up after a nightmare and at the same time got a message from Spence checking to make sure I got home safely. I didn't want to be alone, so I called him and asked to come over. Plus, I really wanted to apologize for yelling at him." "You told him about the rape?" "Yes." "Then you both confessed your true feelings and made slow passionate love," she finished my story with a sigh. "No!" I laughed. "I cried and he held me. Then I asked him to stay with me because I didn't want to sleep alone," I continued. "Then we slept. I woke up with him spooned behind me. Afterwards, he kissed me on the neck when he woke up." "Then you guys confessed your feelings?" she asked. She had been so patient I decided to let her out of her misery. "Eventually. He told me I was the most beautiful girl he had ever met and that he had been in love with me for a long time. I told him that I had loved him since I was twelve." I smiled. "He smiled, told me he loved me, and kissed me." "Then you made love?" she sighed. Clearly she had been reading too many romance novels. "We haven't made love yet," I replied. "It scares you?" "A little. I mean, I was a virgin when I was raped. And I haven't been with anyone since, but I think we both want to take the relationship slowly and make sure that we really are meant to be more than friends." "Actually, that not a bad idea, considering you don't have much experience," Jilly said with a professional tone. "Actually, I have no experience," I replied. "I was only with the guy about a month before he raped me. He was my first boyfriend. I had only kissed one other guy. We hadn't done much past kissing." "Huh," Jilly said. "You're basically still a virgin, just minus the hymen." "Are you going to offer advice or are you just going to tease me about my virgin status?" She laughed softly. "Sorry. Well, if Spence is anything like Charlie he will be a great lover," she offered. "I don't doubt that. His old girlfriends used to share that with me all the time," I replied. "I think most of Spencer's exes were intimidated by my friendship with Spence, and that's why they would brag about getting him into bed. I'm more worried about the fact I won't be" "I wouldn't worry too much about it. I'm sure Spencer knows that you are inexperienced," she said. "And if you take it slow and spend time exploring each other's bodies, you will eventually learn what he likes. Just as he will learn what you like," she continued. "But if you have any questions, just ask." "Thanks, Jilly" I smiled and looked down at Josh who was still sound asleep on me. For lunch, I ended up with Katie sitting on my lap and chatting continually about school and her dance classes. Josh kept offering me his food and Spencer kept teasing me about loving Josh more than him. After lunch Katie wanted to watch a movie, so we set ourselves up in the living room. I parked myself next to Spencer and rested my head on his chest and then ended up with Josh curled up in front of me and Katie sitting while leaning against me. "You look so beautiful with Josh sleeping on you, Edie," Spencer whispered. "You're going to be a great mother one day." He smiled and kissed me gently on the lips. "Is Spencer your boyfriend, Edie?" Katie asked. She had been watching our exchange closely. "Yes he is, princess," I replied with a smile. "Cool, I can't wait for you to be my auntie," she said before turning her attention to the movie. "I'm glad you brought me with you today, Spence," I smiled at Spencer. "I've had a great day." Always in My Life Ch. 04 Hi again, Once again thanks to kayli1001 for editing. I hope you all enjoy this chapter :) Always Always In My Life Ch. 4 The pub was loud, crowded and hot. But Spencer kept me close, which meant I didn't get hit on once. It was actually kind of adorable that he was so protective, glaring at any guy that looked at me too long. I knew it was going to be a great night based on the mood Spence was in. He was very energetic and attentive. Spencer guided me to the bar with an arm around my shoulder, telling the world I was his. I snuggled into his body and reveled in his protectiveness. People were pushing against us, trying to fight their way to the bar before us. Usually I hated being in that situation, having so many people touching me, pushing me and forcing their way into my personal space. But knowing Spencer was right there next to me, holding me, I didn't feel the usual anxiety. "I'm having a beer," Spencer said directly in my ear, his breath fanning across my ear, cheek and neck, sending delicious shivers through my body. "Do you want something to drink?" he continued and leant down so I could answer him without yelling. "Beer," I replied. He gave me an exasperated look. I always asked for beer but never told him which one. I knew it annoyed him, so I did it all the time. He continued to look at me expectantly while I smiled sweetly. "Which one, Edie?" he finally asked. I grinned at him. "Ummm....Pure Blonde," I told him. He nodded that he had heard and then turned to wait to be served. His arm had dropped from my shoulder but he was now holding my hand tightly. He handed me my beer before kissing me tenderly on the lips. When his lips left mine he glanced over my shoulder towards the stage. I quickly glanced in that direction and saw that Jack's band was about to go on. Spence led me to the back corner of the pub, where we had a great view of the stage but weren't surrounded by lots of people. He stood leaning against the wall and pulled me back against him. We listened to the whole first set with his chin resting on my shoulder and his fingers tangled with mine. The only time either of us moved was to sip our drinks. It was turning out to be a perfect night. After the first set Jack came and had a drink with us. He was sweaty and looked really hot but I could see the excitement in his eyes. When he talked he talked really fast, like he wouldn't have enough time to get it all out. It always made me smile when I saw Jack giddy like that. He always seemed his happiest and most relaxed when he was playing. Jack was in the middle of telling us a story about him and his brothers, when a really blonde and really chesty girl came up and wrapped an arm around Jack. It all seemed so natural, like she had done it a thousand times before. But as soon as Jack felt her touch he jumped and tried to step away from her. "Hey, Jack!" the girl purred up at Jack, either ignoring Jack's attempt to distance himself from her or oblivious to it. "You guys were great as usual," she continued, her arched back slightly pushing out her already impressive chest. She really knew how to get a guy's attention. I watched the scene with intense interest. I saw Jack take a breath and try to disengage himself from the girl's grip. "Thanks, Mandy," Jack replied carefully. "I'm having a few friends over later. You should come," Mandy said, offering Jack a seductive smile. "Umm, actually I have school in the morning so I'll be going straight home to bed," Jack replied. I could see how uncomfortable he was with this situation. Spencer was finding it funny. I could feel his body shaking with suppressed laughter. Mandy's eyes widened and she pressed her body up against Jack. "I hope you don't have to go home to an empty bed," she purred, reaching up and stroking Jack's cheek. "You know I'd be happy to warm it up for you," she continued and pressed a lingering kiss to his lips. I watched amazed that that women could be so forward. I couldn't believe she had just offered to have sex with Jack right in front of his friends. Some girls had no shame. Jack looked mortified, as if he couldn't believe she was being so forward. She was so familiar with him, I wondered if she hadn't already slept with him. But, even so, that was no excuse to be so....slutty. "No thanks, Mandy," he said politely as he gently pushed her body away from him. "I have to speak to Hunter," he said. He quickly disappeared into the crowd, leaving Spence and me with Mandy. She stood studying us, but I knew she was really checking out Spencer. Not that I blamed her. Spencer was worthy of a lot of female attention. He was a hottie after all, but he was my hottie now. I glared at her when she finally met my eyes again, my eyes daring her to try something. She didn't. She just turned away from us with a shrug and went back to her friends. "I don't envy Jack for a second," Spencer whispered in my ear as we watched her walk away. "I thought it was every guy's dream to be offered no strings sex," I replied playfully, as I turned in his arms to face him. "Baby, what she offered him had so many strings attached you couldn't distinguish where one began or ended," he replied. "Besides, Jack isn't into groupies anymore. He's grown out of it," Spencer continued seriously before pressing a soft kiss to my lips. "Eww, why do you guys have to be so affectionate?" Jack's deep voice complained from somewhere beside us. I smiled as I pulled away from Spencer's lips. Obviously Jack had just disappeared into the crowd for a few minutes until Mandy also disappeared. "Because he's so yummy, I can barely keep my hands to myself," I replied playfully as I stood close to Spencer. "Oh yuck, Edie," Jack replied, wrinkling his nose as if I'd just made him suck a lemon. "You don't need to share those kinds of detail." I laughed, and felt Spencer chuckle beside me. "You asked!" "It was a rhetorical question," he replied, his face serious. I looked him in the eye and then all three of us started laughing. Nothing had really changed. Jack and I could still joke around, except now Jack had more ammunition. "Are you sure you're safe out here?" I asked, and let my eyes scan the room as if I was looking for someone. I leaned forward towards Jack like I was about to tell a secret. "The groupies might pounce again," I said with a grin. "I think I see one circling," Spencer added. "Yep, she's coming in for the kill," he continued and nodded to a girl who was trying not to be noticed checking Jack out from behind. "You're right, Spence. She's definitely about to pounce," I replied and grinned up at Jack. "You'd better escape now, Jack. This one might not be so easy to ditch." "Shut up!" Jack chuckled. "I can't help that I'm so amazingly hot that I have girls wanting me," he replied haughtily. "I'm sure your modesty is what draws them," I replied sarcastically. "It's a lot of things, squirt," Jack replied. "I'm just totally irresistible to women." Spence and I laughed. "I resisted you." "Yes, but you've been in love with this goofball since way before you met me," Jack said with a nod at Spencer, who pulled me a little closer. "You've never had eyes for anyone else," Jack continued. "I guess so," I smiled. "Here. I got you these," Jack said, handing me some drink cards. "Drinks are on me tonight," he grinned. "Giving us your unwanted drink cards does not count as shouting us drinks," Spencer said. "Sure it does." Jack shrugged. "I gotta go wow everyone again." He grinned at me. "Enjoy the show!" "We always do, mate," Spencer said. We stayed until the end of the band's last set, which finished after 2 a.m. It had been a fantastic night out. We drank more beer. Spence even danced with me. But I was exhausted. All I wanted to do was curl up in Spencer's bed and sleep. Spence must have been struggling with the late night too, because he spent the twenty-minute ride back to his place dozing on my shoulder. "I had a good time tonight, beautiful," Spencer said softly once we were cuddled together in his bed. I was only wearing a pair of panties and one of his t-shirts, so I snuggled up to his body for warmth. "Me too, Spence," I replied sleepily. "I always have a good time with you." "Did you tell Jilly about the rape today?" he asked gently. "Yes," I whispered, and tears that hadn't come when I was telling Jilly the story sprang into my eyes. "Spencer, he hurt me so much that I bled for two days after." I sobbed and buried my face into his chest. "Oh, beautiful," he murmured and held me tightly. "I wish I could take that pain away from you," he whispered as he pressed a kiss to my forehead. "You will," I replied softly and snuggled closer to him. "When we make love you will make everything better." "That's a bit of pressure to put on a guy, bubs," he teased playfully. "Jilly said that with you it would be beautiful, no matter what, because we love each other," I replied, and lifted my head to look at his face in the dark. I could only really make out the outline of his face "I love you more than anything," he whispered, and leaned forward to capture my lips in a slow and soft way that would have made my knees weak if I had been standing up. "And when you decide you want to make love I will work my hardest to make it as enjoyable as possible for you." "Thank you," I whispered and settled down beside him again. "I would do anything for you, Edie," he said softly, as I allowed sleep to take me. ************** The week went by fast and, soon enough, it was Friday afternoon and I was ducking out early to be at home when Beth arrived. She had texted me that morning to let me know she was on her way. She was driving from our hometown and it would take her about eight hours. I was really excited about seeing her and hanging out with her like we did when we were in high school. When I got home I was surprised to find Beth stretched out on my couch reading. "Hey!" she said, looking up from her book. "Bethy!" I squealed and jumped on her, hugging her fiercely. "I'm so happy you're here!" "So am I," Beth laughed, hugging me back. "How long have you been here?" I asked while sitting back on the couch. "About half an hour," she shrugged. "I was going to surprise you by cooking dinner before you got home from work but you ditched out early." "Sorry, hon," I laughed. "But Spencer and Jack have invited us over for a barbie, anyway." "Urg!" she grunted at the mention of Jack. I tried to stop the amused smile from forming, but I must have failed because she glared at me. "Why couldn't you just invite Spencer over here? I don't want to see Jack on my first night here," she continued in a whine that made my smile widen. It was so cute how she got riled up just hearing Jack's name. "I really don't want to see him at all," Beth argued. "C'mon, Beth. He's a great guy and one of my closest friends," I pleaded for her cooperation. "Well, I'm only going to this barbeque to see my big brother," she huffed. "Actually, while we're on the subject of Spencer, I have something to share so you're not surprised tonight." "God, don't tell me I'm going to have to meet another one of his little girlfriends," she complained with a wrinkled brow. "Well, he does have new girlfriend, but she's not like all the others," I replied. I shouldn't have been playing with her but it was just so much fun to mess with her. She had this quick temper that was fun to watch, and the best part of it was she was quick to forgive. "How's that? No huge tits or low IQ?" Beth questioned. I looked down at my modest chest and smiled. Well, my breasts obviously weren't a huge draw card. And my IQ was definitely higher than any of Spencer's previous girlfriends. "Well, I would hope you think I have a higher IQ than his other girlfriends" I replied haughtily. "Why would your IQ have anything to do with the IQ of Spencer's new girlfriend?" Beth asked, totally missing the point. Then she looked at me and I smiled. I knew the exact second she realized I was Spencer's new girlfriend. Her eyes widened and I could swear her breathing stopped for an instant. Then she took a deep breath and launched herself at me. "Oh my god! Really?" she asked as she hugged me. "I always knew I loved him but never dreamed he could love me too," I smiled, as we ended our hug. "How long till we have to leave for the boys' place?" she asked. "Umm..." I said, checking my watch. "About an hour." "Okay, good. I want details," she demanded So for the next hour we talked about the events that led up to Spencer and me finally getting together. I even spoke to Beth about the rape. She was mad that I hadn't told her about it, but understood that I was ashamed. Later, we walked to Spencer's house arm in arm and talked about some of what was going on back in town, although I noticed she never talked about any boyfriends. In fact, I had never known Beth to have many boyfriends. She had boys that were friends but she never dated, at least not back home. She might have dated some in Sydney but I didn't ask. It wasn't my business. Spencer must have been sitting in the front room waiting for our arrival because, as soon as we stepped up onto the porch, the front door flew open and Spencer jumped out to greet us. "Peanut's here!" he exclaimed with a huge smile as he wrapped Beth up in a hug. "Hey, Spencer," Beth smiled as their hug ended. "Mmm...and there's my princess." He smiled and pulled me against his body and kissed my cheek. "I missed you," he said softly as I snuggled closer to him. "Umm...okay, feeling like a third wheel!" Beth said with a dramatic sigh that made both Spencer and me laugh. "Sorry, peanut," Spencer said as he gestured us inside. "Jack is out back manning the BBQ." "Cool. Let's just hang out in here then," Beth said with a smile. "Suck it up, Beth, and go say hi," I chided. She sighed but started out toward the back door anyway. "And be nice!" I called after her. "I give it two minutes before she storms back in here calling him a jerk," Spencer smiled down at me. I laughed knowing it was true. "I missed you the last few days, beautiful," he said and dipped quickly for a soft kiss. "Mmm... I missed you too, Spencer," I smiled as he ended the kiss and pulled me into a hug. "I told you last time I was here not to call me that, asshole," Beth snarled as she walked back inside, slamming the door behind her. Spencer and I looked at each other and smiled. The fireworks had begun. After the food was ready, we all sat around the living room talking while we ate. Well, Spencer and I talked to Beth and Jack while they pretended the other wasn't in the room. If it wasn't so frustrating for Spencer and me, it would have been amusing. I was secretly hoping Jack and Beth would get along better this visit, but of course I was disappointed. They scowled at each other or sniped. It was so frustrating. At eleven, Beth was starting to show signs of exhaustion, so I decided it was time for us to go. I got up and gathered Beth's and my glasses and plates while her eyes drooped. She barely acknowledged Spencer and me as we moved around. "What are you and Beth doing tomorrow?" Spencer asked as I quickly washed our dishes. "I'm not sure," I shrugged. "Whatever it is you're invited, even if we just hang around the apartment." I smiled. "Maybe we could have a sleepover?" he asked with a mischievous grin. While we had gone out to the movies during the week and met up after work a couple of nights, I hadn't stayed the night with him, or vice versa. I could tell he was missing spending the night as much as I was. "I'll ask Beth if it would bother her." I smiled as we made our way back into the lounge to find Beth and Jack talking softly about Jack's class and school soccer team. Jack was a primary school teacher. He taught grades five and six. He also coached the school's soccer team. Jack was a genuinely nice guy and it always amazed me that he and Beth could be so horrible together, although, at that moment, they were getting along. In fact Beth actually managed a sleepy smile as Jack told her about one of the team's goals. He was using a soft, calming voice and it was obviously having an effect on Beth. She had stretched out on the couch since I had gotten up. She didn't seem to mind Jack at that moment. "Thanks for the barbie, Jack," I said, as I approached them. "C'mon, Beth. Let's head home," I spoke to her softly and stroked her hair. "Okay," she sighed sleepily. "I'll drive you guys home," Spencer offered and then went to get his keys from his room. "Don't be a stranger. Okay, kiddo?" Jack directed at Beth as we both got our coats on. I winced at hearing the nickname, knowing it was going to set her off. They were getting along so well, and then he had to go and say it. "I told you not to call me that!" Beth snapped at him. I rolled my eyes. "Why do you always have to be such a dick?" she snarled, and walked out the front door and slammed it. "I wish you wouldn't rile her up, Jack," Spencer said as he came back into the room. "Whatever" Jack shrugged. "Night, squirt. I'll see ya later." Always in My Life Ch. 05 Hi Again all, Thanks again to my editor kayli1001. I hope you all enjoy this chapter. Please keep the feedback coming. AlwaysAlone1986 * The next month passed quickly and quietly. I saw or spoke to Spencer every day and spent most weekends in his bed. We hadn't done anything but kiss and cuddle. I was even more in love with him, so I felt ready to take things to the next step. I just knew we were meant to be together. Beth was still staying in my spare room. We were having a great time sharing the apartment. She was working part time at a second-hand bookshop and while she wasn't earning much she was contributing to the household. We were talking about making it a permanent situation, especially since I was rarely there on weekends. It was a Friday night and I was tired from work, Beth was making dinner when I got home and I smiled at her thoughtfulness. We never discussed who would do what. We just seemed to sense what needed to be done. "Do you have plans with Spencer tonight?" she asked as I stretched out on the couch. "Yeah. We're having a movie night," I replied. "I was going to head over after dinner." "Okay. I assume you're going to stay with him?" "Yeah," I said. "Do you have plans tonight?" "Not really," she shrugged. "I have a couple of assignments I might get a start on." I was starting to worry that she didn't socialize. She never talked about people she met at uni or she went out with friends besides myself and Spencer. I had never really seen her as a shy person, but she really had trouble reaching out to new people. "Jack's band is playing a party tomorrow night. Spencer and I are going to watch. You should come." "I might. Thanks, sis," she smiled. Always in My Life Ch. 06 Hi all, This is it all! The final chapter! I hope you all enjoyed it. A big thank to my editor, kayli1001, once again, my story is 100 times better thanks to their help. Feedback is always welcomed! Enjoy! Alwaysalone1986 Always in My Life, Chapter 6 Spencer and I decided to take Beth out to the aquarium for the day. She had mentioned last time she came to visit that she wanted to go, but we just never got around to it. When we asked, she lit up like a kid at Christmas. Well, that is, after she asked if Jack was coming and we said he wasn't. "Good! I don't want to have to spend all day and all night with the jerk." she said. "I wish you and Jack would get along," I said with a sigh. "He's like a brother to me." "Well, Jack can be your brother. I have Spencer," she replied, sticking her chin out. Great... she was being stubborn. "Well, let me give you some brotherly advice," Spencer said. He was stretched out on our couch while we girls got ready. He was such a patient boyfriend. "Jack is the best guy I know. Not only would I trust him with my life, but Edie's as well. You could do a lot worse than Jack as a friend." "I try, but he always says something stupid and mean," she huffed. "You should be giving him this lecture," she continued. Beth stormed back into her room to finish getting ready. Spencer and I just looked at each other with the what-can-you-do look. Beth and Jack would have to work out their problems on their own. I just wanted to focus on Spencer's and my relationship.