I glanced up from the couch as Tyler walked back in through the front door with a bunch of mail in his hands.

"Well?" I asked, switching off the TV and sitting up now.

He glanced at me and took his own sweet time taking his shoes off and walking into the living room.

"Let's see. Bills, bills, bills..." Tyler muttered, flipping through the letters. "Oh what's this?" He exclaimed, his horrible acting skills making me glare at him.

"What is it?" I asked, forcing my voice to sound calm.

Tyler just stared at me, before breaking out into a huge grin. "IT'S FINALLY HERE!" He exclaimed.

I let out a shriek, before jumping up and taking the letter from his hands and wasting no time ripping it open.

I broke into a grin as I carefully pulled out my diploma from the large envelope. Although I knew I had passed my grad year, it was still exciting to see my diploma. Since I had graduated early, the school had sent out diplomas to all the kids who were finished. I still had to attend the grad ceremony in June, but now I didn't have to go back to school! Scratch that, I didn't have to go back to school after tomorrow! Jess, Ella and Landon were still dragging me to that dance but I actually didn't mind as much.

It had been two days since that phone call with Nathan and after that day, neither of us made an effort to contact the other. I was fine with it because I knew it would hurt once I heard his voice. Plus, I had been doing a good job keeping myself busy by making lots of plans with my friends and I was actually having fun. But the jerk still always found a way to creep into my mind at random times and I would zone out plenty of times, but thankfully my amazing friends were always there to save me from thoughts of Nathan.

"Yay! My baby sister's finally graduated!" Tyler yelled out in glee, grabbing me and spinning me around in a circle.

I laughed in his arms as he spun me once more, before setting me back down and grinning at me.

"But the good news doesn't stop there." Tyler gave me a secretive smirk, but I could see the excitement shining in his eyes.

"What is it?" I asked, getting excited too now.

"I got a job!" Tyler burst out, not being able to hold it in any longer.

I grinned alongside him and tackled him into a hug. "Oh my god that's awesome! Details! Give me details!" I pressed on eagerly. It had been two years since Tyler graduated and he had dropped out of college after the first few months. I supported him all the way and understood that it really was not what he wanted. He had gotten a scholarship there from a football team but he realized it wasn't worth it. Although my mom and step-dad were pretty pissed about it and called him an idiot for dropping out, I was there for him and promised to help him chase his dreams.

Tyler chuckled, before sitting us both down on the couch now and turning to face me with a huge smile.

"I got offered a job at NYCU as an assistant football coach." Tyler explained in excitement.

I shrieked and jumped up and down on the couch. "Tyler that's amazing! I knew putting up with all those sticky six year olds would be worth it!" I exclaimed. Ever since Tyler dropped out of college, he started applying at places as a football coach or assistant. He started off small by becoming an assistant coach for a minors football team which consisted of 5-8 year olds. Then he moved up to becoming coach of the team. After that, he managed to score a spot at my high school as assistant coach. Although these were all great experiences, the pay wasn't enough, so Tyler was often working outside of football as a cook.

"I know! The pay is great and they invited me over there to see the place next month. I start in September." Tyler said, that grin never leaving his face.

I was so happy right now, words could not describe it. Finally seeing my brother get closer to his dream job was amazing. His goal was to become a football coach but not for some little kids or high-schoolers. This was amazing.

"Tyler this calls for celebration!" I squealed. "How about tonight for dinner, we could go to that fancy restaurant that opened up recently." I suggested.

Tyler grinned. "Okay, I wanted to try their food anyway. I hear they have the best pastas in town."

"Okay! I'll invite people!" I grinned, standing up now.

Tyler laughed at me and shook his head. "Okay, I'll be back at around five. Kyle and the guys are taking me somewhere for celebration first." Tyler said, getting up too now.

"You told them before me?" I questioned, feeling a bit hurt.

"I just found out last night. I wanted to tell you after you got your diploma so you could be even more happy." Tyler explained quickly.

"That's thoughtful." I smiled up at him.

"And plus you were already dead asleep." He added with a smirk.

I glared back at him. "Whatever. Where are you going anyway?" I asked now as Tyler walked to the closet and grabbed a jacket.

"I have no clue, they said it's a surprise." Tyler rolled his eyes.

I chuckled. Kyle was Tyler's best friend since high school and despite him not being here as often since he went to a college two hours away from here, he still managed to squeeze in time to hang out with Tyler every chance he got. I guessed he was here because spring break had already started for the college kids.

"Okay have fun and also invite them for dinner too." I ordered.

The doorbell suddenly rang.

"Can you get that? And you can invite them right now actually, that must be him. I'll be back I have to grab my phone." Tyler yelled, already halfway up the stairs.

I chuckled and went to the door, pulling it open to reveal Tyler's friends.

"Skylar! It's been so long!" Kyle was the first to greet me with a huge grin. He opened his arms out and enveloped me in a big bear hug before I could protest.

I laughed into his chest and hugged him back. Since Tyler was a total jock in high school, so were all his friends. They all played football and were all players. But they were actually really nice people. Well, to me at least. They sort of became like family to me in high school, always looking out for me and helping me with anything I needed. They all thought of me as a little sister and I couldn't be more grateful to them.

"I heard what happened." Kyle said now, his tone melting into one of seriousness.

He pulled away and I looked into his concerned blue eyes. I also noticed all the other guys looking at me in concern.

I couldn't help but chuckle at them all. Their expressions were too much. "Please, if I learned anything from a bunch of football jocks, it was how to defend myself." I stated with a smirk.

They all chuckled at that, but didn't seem convinced.

"You guys, I'm fine really. I didn't even get a scratch! They took good care of me, it was like staying at a five star hotel. They even cooked me free food that was delicious! In all honesty, I didn't realize I was kidnapped until I had to leave when I got rescued." I told them, meeting all their gazes.

Jake, the smartest one in the group, stepped forward with concern. "Sky don't tell me you got Stockholm syndrome." He spoke softly.

"No I did not!" I snapped. I was sick and tired of people telling me this. First, the police investigators, then the doctors, and now my own friends. Although that's what the doctors suspected at first, they soon realized I was still sane and that I was only so nonchalant about the whole thing because I had been left unharmed and had been treated like a princess. By none other than Nathan, but I was careful not to tell them that.

"The doctors even said I was fine and sane!" I defended, crossing my arms.

"Well those doctor's must be blind if they call you sane." Adrian, the biggest joker in the group, said now with a smirk.

I just glared at him, before lunging out to attack. Sadly, he saw it coming and caught me in his arms, trapping my arms at my sides so I couldn't lash out.

"Let go of me! I am not crazy!" I screamed, thrashing around in his hold.

This only caused all the guys to laugh. I silently fumed as Adrian slowly put me down, giving me a look of caution.

"Guys stop harassing my sister." Tyler spoke from the door now, walking out with an amused smirk.

"Thank you." I said, walking over to my older brother now.

"She already has enough troubles dealing with her own psychotic problems." Tyler added in all seriousness, before all the guys burst into laughter.

"Screw you guys! I hope you all get run over by a garbage truck." I grumbled.

Then, I heard a car door slam shut and looked up to see Jess running over to me with a huge smile.

"Hello jocks, Tyler. Skylar I'm spending the night here." Jess said, all in one breath.

I blinked at her, noticing the duffel bag in her hand, before breaking out into a grin. "Okay!"

"Well we should get going. We need to be there at a certain time so I'll see you later." Kyle spoke up, looking at Jess and I in amusement.

"Okay. Oh and you all are invited to dinner at seven at that fancy new restaurant that just opened up." I quickly added.

"Oh I heard they have the best pasta!" Derek, the dullest of the group, grinned and sighed dreamily.

"Right!" Tyler grinned at his jock friend. I rolled my eyes.

"So can you all make it?" I asked, looking at all of them. There were four of them in total, so it would be no problem if all of them ended up coming.

I watched as they all nodded and confirmed with a grin. "Yay! Now go run along, the garbage truck should be making its way down the road by now." I quickly shooed them away with my hands.

They simply shot me playful glares, before bidding their goodbyes.

I shut the door once they were all gone and turned to see Jess was already making her way up to my room. I rolled my eyes, before following her up there.

I walked into my room to see her unpacking her bag and gave her a curious look as she pulled out her make-up kit and hair styling products.

"I was thinking I'd do your hair and make-up for the dance tomorrow." Jess explained with a grin.

"Sure." I shrugged, taking a place on my bed now. I watched as she pulled out a hanger with a fabric cover over whatever was underneath it.

"I also found you the perfect dress since you refused to go dress shopping again." Jess rolled her eyes.

"Really? Jess, you didn't have to." I looked at her, touched at her thoughtfulness.

I guess showing up in sweatpants was cancelled...

"Actually, I did. Tyler gave me cash to find you a nice dress. We were all onto operation sweatpants." Jess gave me a stern look.

They knew me too well, and cared too much. I was undoubtedly grateful to them all.

I simply stuck my tongue out, before reaching for the dress.

She quickly pulled it away and shook her head at me. "No no no. You can't see it until tomorrow." She tsked, causing me to roll my eyes.

"Fine, it's not like I'm eager to see it anyway." I shrugged.

"You will be tomorrow." Jess winked, before pulling out a bunch of DVDs. "We have enough time to watch three movies so let's go!" Jess squealed, before racing down the stairs, her golden curls bouncing as she ran.

I shook my head at her, before following her down to see she was already putting the disc in the player.

I went into the kitchen and grabbed a bunch of snacks, my arms fully loaded, before walking back out and dumping them between us as we sat on the couch.

I sighed in content the same time Jess did, before we turned to each other and burst out laughing.

"Today's a good day." I mumbled without thinking.

"It is." Jess agreed, reaching up to pinch my cheek. "You've been looking a little less blue lately." She teased.

I swatted her hand away and giggled. "And I love you for putting up with the worst of me." I replied, looking at her honestly.

"It's like taking care of Eor from Winnie the Pooh. But then it's like taking care of a ferocious, vicious lion at times. But at least you're cute little Eor sometimes." Jess described.

I simply blinked at her.

"Let's just watch the movie because I'm getting ferocious vicious lion vibes right now." Jess quickly rushed out, shooting me a large grin and hitting play before I could attack her.

I laughed at her antics, turning over to face her as the movie started up. "Love you long-time." I winked at her.

"Love you too. Now enjoy this movie with me, we gotta go for dinner soon." Jess shushed me and I finally complied.

I sunk back into the couch and started watching the movie, smiling softly to myself. Today had been nice, and it was about to get a whole lot better. I couldn't wait to try that pasta Derek and Tyler kept complimenting. And I couldn't wait to be surrounded by the people I loved and cared for. Despite one certain person not being there, I was happy. But then I thought of our phone call two days ago and I frowned. I had been trying to keep my mind off of it, but it was a lot. Obviously I was filled with concern for him, especially after he had told me that he was with his father. How he was in Europe and for what reason was beyond me, and I knew I wouldn't be getting any explanations any time soon. It mainly concerned me when he'd told me how he was being forced to stay there against his will.

But these past three months had only consisted of me worrying over him to no avail. He wouldn't open up to me, he wouldn't tell me if he was okay, and he hadn't bothered trying to message me again. At this point, I was a little hurt and upset with it. I could only care so much for him, but if he was choosing to keep me blocked out of whatever was going on, then there was nothing I could really do about it.

The concern still washed over me as I let my mind get lost in thought over him yet again. So deciding to brush aside the hurt and frustration I felt towards him for pushing me away and keeping me out, time and time again, I decided to send a short message. I dropped my worries and anxieties over his safety as I knew it would lead nowhere except for a darker and deeper hole of helplessness and misery, and instead decided to send him the three words which were unchanging and above everything else.

S - I love you.

I quickly hit send and tucked my phone back in my pocket. If he really wasn't okay, at least now he knew I was there for him. Hopefully it made him feel better, even if it was a small fleeting smile, I hoped it made a difference.

Jess and I ended up watching two movies before Tyler got back, and then we left for the restaurant to celebrate his new job.

The restaurant was simply amazing. The night had been filled with laughter, smiles and good memories. I had a blast with Tyler and all the guys, and they did too. By the time we left the restaurant, it was already nearing midnight.

"Goodnight girls." Tyler called as Jess and I made our way towards the stairs.

"We're ladies, not girls." Jess corrected, giggling as Tyler rolled his eyes.

I laughed and followed Jess up the steps, before pausing. "I'll be up in two seconds." I told her, before turning to walk back down the steps and towards the kitchen where Tyler was.

"Hey, I hope you enjoyed your night. I'm so proud of you big bro." I spoke with a big smile.

"It was amazing. The guys' really surprised me with those football tickets and the game was unforgettable." Tyler grinned. "And the dinner was super nice too, it was really sweet of you to do that for me." He smiled down at me, ruffling my hair with his hand.

"Hey!" I ducked away from him, before laughing. "You deserve it. You worked so hard and put your best effort into everything you do. I'm really lucky and proud to have you as my brother." I smiled.

"Thanks Sky. Now go paint your nails with Jess or whatever. She's waiting for you." Tyler rushed me out.

I laughed, skipping out of the kitchen and turning back once more to face him. "I love you." I called out.

"Love you too brat. Now shoo." Tyler chuckled at me.

I stuck my tongue out, before meeting Jess in my room.

We actually did end up painting our nails, and then we played some music and danced around my room until we dropped dead onto our pillows from exhaustion. It was truly a euphoric night for me, it felt good to be carefree and laugh that much.

The fact that Nathan hadn't replied to my earlier text didn't bother me in the least. I was happy that finally, I could stop letting those annoying pangs of hurt become rocky bumps in my day. I was too lucky and too happy to care. I still loved and cared for him just as much as I had the day he'd left, the only difference was that I was stronger. And I couldn't have done it without my wonderfully amazing friends.

-

The next morning I woke up to the sound of rustling around, coming from my closet. I sat up and looked over at Jess' sleeping bag on the ground to see it was empty. I looked towards my closet but the door was closed.

What on earth was that girl up to now?

"Jess?" I called out, yawning after and stretching out my limbs. I had really gotten a good sleep last night, which was rare because my nights usually consisted of me staying awake, thinking of a certain boy.

The rustling stopped and then silence followed.

"Jess, is that you?" I asked, more alert now.

"Yeah." She answered, causing me to relax.

"What are you doing in my closet?" I asked her, stepping out of bed now.

"I was just going through your clothes you know, since you have an awesome taste in fashion." She chuckled nervously.

I stepped towards the door and was about to open it when she pulled it open slightly and slipped out, closing it behind her.

"Oh don't tell me you were playing dress up in there." I rolled my eyes.

"Yes! That's exactly what I was doing!" Jess exclaimed, sounding too happy.

I narrowed my eyes at her suspiciously, something was up.

"Anyways, Tyler made breakfast so let's go sleepyhead!" Jess exclaimed, taking my arm and dragging me away.

I sighed and decided to let it go. Knowing Jess, I'd find out sooner or later.

Once I had washed up and eaten a lavish breakfast made by my chef of a brother, Jess quickly threw some clothes at me and told me we were going to the zoo.

Why? I had no clue.

I decided I'd better listen to her and so here I was now, standing in front of the ring-tails that were hiding in their cool, shady cave. It was quite a hot day after all. Ella and Landon had decided to join us too.

"Why aren't they coming out?" Jess whined like a little five year old. "I wanna see them." She pouted.

"I know how we can get them out." Landon said with a smirk now.

Oh no.

"How?" Jess asked eagerly as Landon smirked at all of us.

"By singing!" Landon exclaimed, causing me to face-palm.

Before any of us could question his sanity, Landon jumped in front of the ring-tails and started doing some weird dance. "I like to move it move it! I like to move it move it! I like to move it move it! You like to, move it!" Landon sung at the top of his lungs, causing people to stop and stare at my unique best friend.

Then to my utter horror, Jess and Ella jumped to his side and joined in.

"I like to move it move it! I like to move it move it! I like to move it move it! You like to, move it!" They all sang together now.

By now, a small crowd had formed, some people cheering them on, some people recording the whole thing, and some people looking at them with baffled looks.

I shook my head as Landon looked at me and winked. "Come on baby blue! You know you want to!" Landon yelled, causing me to shake my head.

It's not like I had anything to lose.

So, throwing my sanity and dignity out the window, I jumped alongside my three crazy friends and we continued dancing like maniacs, singing the Madagascar theme song at the top of our lungs.

It didn't take security too long to grab us all and kick us out, but none of us cared. We were too busy cracking up like psychos.

"That was awesome!" Ella exclaimed, grinning at us all as we walked towards Landon's car.

We all agreed and Landon wrapped an arm around her shoulder, pulling her to his side as they grinned like idiots.

"But the ring-tails didn't even come out." Jess pouted.

"I think we scared them away with our dancing skills." I spoke, grinning at my friends.

"Definitely. They were probably too embarrassed to come out because we totally danced better than King Julian." Landon said with a serious face, before we all burst out laughing.

"I'll bet you ten bucks that this video will be up on YouTube by tomorrow." I said now as we finally reached Landon's red convertible.

"And I'll bet you it will go viral by the end of this month." Landon said with a grin.

"What? No! No no no no no! This can't be seen by anyone!" Jess protested, looking worried.

"Jess half the zoo already saw it." I told her flatly.

"But now I'll never get a boyfriend!" She wailed, causing Landon, Ella and I to crack up.

Of course that's what she'd be worried about.

The ride home was spent with us all singing along to the radio with our beautiful voices and when we finally reached my house, I was a bit sad that our mini concert was over. We were such amazing singers, we could totally make a kick-ass band together. Although some people thought differently considering we got honked at a few times and cussed at by some beefy truck driver.

"So I'll pick you two up at around seven?" Landon said as Jess and I stepped out.

"Sounds good. Have fun you too." I grinned at the two and Jess winked, before Landon sped off down the road with Ella. She would have also stayed here to get ready with Jess and I, but Landon had other plans. He was taking her somewhere and wouldn't tell anyone. It was supposed to be a surprise. So she had no choice but to quickly get ready at Landon's before they left and came here.

The two were too adorable. Jess and I were hoping Landon's little surprise would be him finally confessing his love to Ella. They were too oblivious to admit it, but you could clearly see it in the way they looked at each other. I guess I too had been oblivious to it, all those times Nathan would look at me.

"Okay, time to turn into sexy beasts." Jess said as we entered through the front door.

"Please don't say that when I'm in the house." Tyler groaned from somewhere in the kitchen.

"Okay fine, time to turn myself into a sexy beast and turn Sky into a modest looking princess." Jess corrected with an eye roll.

"Better." Was all Tyler muttered, before we ran up the stairs and Jess went to work straight away on my hair and make-up.

After about two hours, we had both gotten our hair and make-up done and I was about to head into my closet with the mystery dress when Jess stopped me.

"I dibs the closet!" She screamed, before running past me with her dress and slipping in there, slamming the door shut after.

I just stared at the door, before shaking my head. It was very hard to tell if she was being suspicious, or just her regular self. I settled for the latter, not knowing what she could possibly be hiding in my closet.

Unless it was a puppy... I'd cry if that was the case.

Making my way to the bathroom now and choosing not to spend more time worrying about my wild best friend, I finally took the plastic cover off of the dress and gasped. The material was absolutely beautiful. I wasted no time stripping down and pulling the dress over my head eagerly.

I then stepped out of the bathroom and walked in front of my full length mirror, stopping in my tracks. I looked pretty good. Dare I say, really good.

The dress was custard yellow and strapless with a sweet-heart neckline. The top fitted well against my torso, before it exploded into ruffles from the waist down all the way to my feet. There was a small, silvery grey snowflake-like design on the side of my waist that saved the dress from looking too plain. The shade of yellow complimented my slightly tanned skin quite well and the bodice showcased my curves nicely. It was breathtaking. My brown hair was out in soft waves, not curled but it held some volume to it, looking perfect with the dress. Jess had done my make-up quite well, only dusting on some powder and doing a light touch up, making it look natural.

A loud squeal from behind caused me to spin around. Jess was stood there with her jaw dropped as she looked at the dress, but I was too busy marveling over her own dress.

It was a light shade of purple and similar to mine, there was a sweet-heart neckline and a tight bodice, before it went poofy at the bottom from all the ruffles. The neckline was lined with a thin silver design that sparkled and curled into beautiful designs down her bodice. It looked amazing on her. Her golden curls were naturally let down and made her seem even more flawless.

"Jess, you look stunning." I said honestly.

"Never mind me, look at you! I would most definitely tap that if I were bi." She winked at me.

"Same here mami." I winked back, before we both started laughing.

A honk from outside caused us to gather our clutches and hurry down the stairs where Tyler stood, waiting.

As soon as he looked up, his jaw dropped. His eyes were on Jess and I bit back a huge grin. She did look hot.

"Wow." My brother breathed out as Jess reached the bottom, me following behind.

"Try not to drool." Jess said with a small smirk, patting the side of my brother's cheek, before walking out the door and laughing.

"You should've made a move." I said to him with a disapproving look, causing him to slightly blush, which of course made me laugh, before I leaned in and kissed his cheek, yelling a 'see ya'.

"You both look gorgeous. Have fun guys! Landon, make sure to keep an eye on the ladies!" Tyler called out from the front door as Jess and I settled inside Landon's car.

"It's gonna be a full-time job but I got them." Landon yelled back and shot my brother a thumbs-up.

"Wow, you two look beautiful!" Ella exclaimed, turning in her seat to face us as Landon took off towards the school.

"Says you." I shot back, taking in her beauty. She had on the dress we found the other day at the mall when Landon had thrown a tantrum. Her make-up was done lightly, her beautiful features highlighted and enhanced, looking elegant and natural. Her short hair was pulled back in a delicate and intricate bun, a few curled strands hanging out.

"Yeah Ells, you look smoking. Now I know why Landon looks so upset." Jess snickered and I joined in, causing Landon to turn and glare at us.

"Eyes on the road lover boy!" I exclaimed, causing him to sigh and grumble, facing forward again.

I watched as Ella slowly slid her hand into his, the one that was not on the wheel, and gave him a small smile. Landon instantly caved and smiled back, all signs of anger vanishing.

Jess and I shared a look, both of us waggling our eyebrows at the two lovers. I guess Landon had really pulled a romantic surprise on Ella. The two looked more cozied up and comfortable, and it made me smile.

Once we finally pulled up to the school, Landon parked close to the gym and we all walked out, making our way inside.

Once we entered the gym, I was shocked. They had done a good job at transforming the place. You couldn't see the gym walls as they were covered in streamers and decorations. The whole theme was blue, pink, and white with balloons of those colors floating around. It looked wonderful.

"Landon, take me to the dance floor!" Ella exclaimed, excitement lighting up her face.

Landon chuckled, before dragging her to the dance floor where there was already quite a few people dancing already.

"I'll go find us a table, you could get the drinks." Jess ordered.

I nodded, before we both parted ways and I made my way to the punch table. Once I had poured two cups of punch after double checking with the principal that it hadn't been spiked, I found a table with Jess' clutch on it but she wasn't there with it.

Setting down the cups and taking a seat, I looked up to notice that she had been snagged away by a cute guy with dark brown hair who was smiling at her as they danced. I recognized him from my history class.

I smiled at her and sipped my punch. I was glad my friends were happy.

After an hour, I was already bored and my head was starting to hurt from the loud music and chatter of my classmates. I had been approached by many guys multiple times surprisingly, asking me for a dance. But I had declined every time. Even if it was just harmless dancing, I couldn't do that to Nathan. It wouldn't feel right.

Sighing and standing up now, I made my way to the doors that led outside. I needed some air.

I stepped out into the pleasantly cool night and stared up at the beautiful stars, wondering if Nathan would be looking at them too.

So much for my plan of not letting him invade me mind tonight...

As I leaned up against the wall of my school, I noticed a black SUV stop right in front of me with tinted windows. I cautiously watched as the door from the other side opened and the driver walked out.

My heart beat picked up as I stood frozen, not sure what would happen. I quickly went over all those ninja moves Nathan had taught me and the guys back at his apartment and braced myself.

Then, nothing happened. I could see feet from below the car on the other side so I knew there was someone there. Great, now's my chance!

I quickly pushed away from the wall and started speed walking back towards the entrance. But before I could make it, a pair of hands enclosed around my waist and I didn't struggle. I was too shocked to. The feel of those hands, the familiar light scent of cologne, the way he handled me right now... No, it was all too good to be true. I knew that.

So, opening my mouth, I got ready to scream bloody murder. But before my voice could even leave my throat, the stranger put his hand over my mouth, successfully silencing me.

I struggled in the strikingly familiar guy's grip but it was no use as I was pulled to the driver's side of the car, away from the entrance and out of sight. My heart felt like it would jump out of my chest any minute.

Then, my captor spun me around and gently pushed me against the car, facing me. I couldn't see his face because he had a hood pulled over his head and it was dark, but I could see just the start of his chin, and a wave of deja vu hit me again.

But I knew it couldn't be him. It would be ridiculous to even think that.

I waited silently for whatever would happen next. And what happened next was totally unexpected.

I gasped in shock as a pair of lips crashed against mine, kissing me softly and tenderly and igniting a forgotten spark within me. It was him. He was here right now. There was no way anyone else could have that same effect on me. No way.

I kissed him back once I got over the shock and wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling us closer. My body was on fire. I felt his tongue trace me lower lip but stubbornly refused to deepen the kiss. In the midst of all this, I was still pissed at the jerk for being gone so long. But I suddenly gasped when I felt Nathan's hand snaked around my waist and squeeze my butt. This allowed him entrance and his tongue instantly went in my mouth, causing me to moan softly.

Once there was no room to breath, we pulled away and I was left staring at the hooded guy in front of me.

"Should I be concerned that you would kiss a total stranger?" His voice made my stomach flip and my breathing hitch. Oh how I missed that feeling.

"I would recognize those lips anywhere." I breathed out, still staring at him in shock.

I saw his lips turn up in a smirk and I reached up to push his hood away. Although I was certain who it was, I was still surprised when Nathan's face came into view. My heart beat fastened once again and I moved my hand to rest on his cheek. He instinctively leaned towards my palm.

Although he still looked hot, I could tell he hadn't been taking care of himself. There were slight bags under his eyes but his brightly lit green orbs filled with excitement made me forget about those. The tired look on his face was the only thing that indicated how rough the past three months must have been. And I was glad I wasn't the only one.

"You're here." I stated dumbly after a while. What else could I say? My brain was utter mush right now and I was still having trouble getting over the shock.

His lips turned up into a genuine smile now and something clicked. He was here. That's all that mattered. He was here.

"You're here!" I exclaimed, now with a lot more enthusiasm and excitement.

He chuckled as I somehow managed to jump onto him and wrap myself around him in my dress. He quickly caught my legs which went up around his waist and I squeezed my arms around his neck. The feeling was indescribable.

"I am." He said back softly. "Come on, we have somewhere to be and we can't be late." Nathan said now, causing me to pull back and look up at him.

"Where are we--" I started asking but before I could finish, Nathan had closed the gap between us and captured my lips, giving me another mind blowing kiss.

"You really should've worn some leggings." He mumbled against my lips.

That's when I noticed my dress had ridden up to my waist when I had attacked him in a hug. I couldn't stop the blush that came next.

Then, Nathan opened the door and all but threw me into the passenger's seat, before getting in himself and starting the car.

I looked at him in shock, then back at the school. As much as I wanted to get away with this boy and be alone with him, I couldn't give my friends a heart attack by just disappearing.

"Don't worry about them, they know you're with me." Nathan answered my silent question as we pulled up onto the main road and headed towards the highway.

"Okay, but I have a lot more questions and I refuse to let you brush them off again and leave me in the dark." I ordered, the hurt leaking into my tone and causing him to turn and look at me.

"I know Skylar. I'm so sorry for doing that. I knew it wasn't right. It was hard enough on me, that I thought you'd be better off not knowing. I know that it's selfish and not right. I just didn't want you losing hope that I'd come back." Nathan spoke, his eyes turning serious and heavy. "I'm sorry." He added, his apology fully genuine.

"And you're here for good now, right?" I asked, biting my lip.

"I'm all yours princess." Nathan said softly, taking my hand in his and squeezing it, before bringing it to his lips and placing a gentle kiss on it.

"Good. So you're ready to tell me everything and promise to stop keeping things from me?" I asked, not letting myself melt at his apology instantly and forgive him all at once just yet.

"Yes ma'am. I promise. You don't have to worry about anything like that happening ever again." Nathan promised, staring into my eyes with genuine conviction and promise. "I'm sorry for putting you through that." He added.

"You put both of us through a lot. But it only made me stronger. What matters is that you're finally back and this time I'm not letting you leave anywhere without me." I looked at him with all seriousness.

He looked over with pure happiness and amusement in his eyes, smiling his gorgeous smile at me. "God I missed you so much." He breathed.

I squeezed his hand which was still around mine, looking up at him with similar emotions running through my eyes.

"You look breathtaking." Nathan said now, his eyes slowly raking over every inch of my body.

"I was going to show up in sweatpants." I admitted, biting my lip as I couldn't stop from blushing. I had missed the way he looked at me so much. It made me feel like I was the only girl in the world. His one and only girl.

"Thanks for waiting for me." Nathan said now.

"I mean, I didn't really have a choice. Every time I went on a date, guys would always ask what this necklace was and I couldn't lie." I shrugged, lifting the beautiful locket he had given to me in my hands.

I continued staring straight ahead as I could feel Nathan's burning look on me as he tried to see if I was serious or not.

I couldn't take it anymore and burst out laughing.

"It's okay, every time a girl would approach me on the beach, they'd ask what this key meant and I'd tell them it was from my grandma." Nathan said nonchalantly.

I gasped and turned to glare at him, before attacking him with my hands and slapping him anywhere I could.

"Hey, stop that! I was joking! Stop, stop, stop!" Nathan whined as I repeatedly smacked him on top of the head.

I leaned back in my seat now, satisfied.

"Yep, I even missed your smacks." Nathan shook his head, amusement in his eyes as he focused fully on the road now.

I grinned. "So, how was meeting your father like?" I asked, surprising him.

"No questions until we get there. Then I promise to tell you everything." Nathan said instead of answering, shooting me one of those million dollar smiles that made my stomach flip. I missed those smiles.

I settled for a glare and huffed, before looking out the window. Although I had a million questions on my mind right now, I couldn't stop the grin that took over my face as I looked at the passing scenery. I was happy. He was right, those questions could wait. I had his hand in mine and I knew he wasn't leaving again. Even if he tried to, I'd strap myself onto his back like a backpack and follow him. I could fully relax now, as the worst was over.

It wasn't long before we pulled up at the airport. I turned to Nathan questioningly. "You're kidnapping me again." I stated as I looked up at the massive planes flying above us.

"You love it." Nathan replied.

"Wait, I can't just ditch my friends and brother like that without notice." I spoke up, worrying now. They had been there for me through everything, and I'd feel bad for disappearing on them like that.

"They all know." Nathan winked at me. "Check your phone." He instructed.

I simply shook my head and pulled out my phone from my clutch, opening it to see messages from Tyler, Landon, Jess, and Ella. All of them were wishing me a good trip, each one having sent me a heartfelt, sweet paragraph. Even Max had sent a text.

I grinned at that and tucked my phone away, deciding to reply back later. "I honestly wouldn't have been able to make it without them all." I told Nathan with a small smile.

"I know. I'm so grateful towards them for taking good care of you. I should have been there doing it, but I knew I could trust them all." Nathan said softly.

"Yep, you're really gonna have to do a lot to make it up to me." I winked at my boyfriend.

"Don't you worry, I have it all planned out my love." Nathan gave me a grin as we parked and he shut the car off.

I stepped out of the car with him and he went to the trunk, opening it up and pulling out two suitcases. One was confusingly familiar.

"How'd you get my--" I started to ask.

"I got Jess to pack your bag and picked it up from Tyler before coming to get you." Nathan explained.

Well that explained why Jess was acting all weird this morning in my closet and wouldn't let me in there.

I smiled at that. At least I knew she'd packed my bag with everything I needed and cute outfits. I'd have to thank her for that after.

Once both suitcases were set on the ground, Nathan turned to me with a smile. I couldn't help but smile back.

"Are you ready?" He asked me, coming closer and grabbing my waist, pulling me against him.

"For what?" I asked with a raised brow as I tilted my head back slightly to look up at him.

"For the land of far, far away where we can be alone. Just the two of us." Nathan explained, smiling down at me.

"As long as I'm with you." I said softly, before leaning up to kiss him.

He met me halfway and gave me a soft kiss, before pulling away. "Congratulations on graduating by the way."

I laughed. "Thanks. It was very dry and unpleasant, going to school." I admitted.

"Well I'm proud of you." Nathan smiled, before turning to pull open the back door of the SUV.

I watched curiously as he then walked over to me with a small gift box, a big red bow on top of it.

"What is this?" I asked, smiling up at him.

"A little graduation gift I picked out for you from Europe." Nathan grinned, handing me the small box.

My heart swelled as I took it, looking up at him with a large smile.

"Wow do you look beautiful in that dress." Nathan breathed out before I could thank him.

I bit my lip, stepping up to him and kissing his cheek. "Thank you."

"Open it." Nathan urged, smiling gently at me.

I lifted the lid and gasped as I saw what was inside. Carefully lifting the small cushion, I pulled it out to bring the delicate bracelet closer. I gently held the silver band encased with intricate diamonds around it and saw engraved writing on the inside of it.

'For my brilliantly badass princess. Impossible doesn't apply to you.'

I gasped at the beauty of it, the words written inside making my heart melt. "Wow, this is beautiful Nathan. I love it." I spoke, tears rising up to my eyes as I tried to settle down my emotions.

"Let me put it on you." Nathan said softly, taking it gently from my hands.

I watched in admiration as he closed the bracelet around my wrist, the diamonds on it making it sparkle in the dark night.

"Nathan, you must have spent--" I started to say but he cut me off.

"Sh. I don't want to hear that. Money is not an issue for us princess. Don't worry. And you deserve all the diamonds in the world." Nathan gave me a charming smile.

"You're incredible." I breathed out, looking down at the beautiful bracelet on my wrist and adoring it.

"I know, you can tell me all about it on the way there." Nathan winked at me, causing me to roll my eyes. "Don't wanna miss our flight." He said, shutting the trunk and locking his car, before grabbing both suitcases and dragging them behind him.

I quickly took mine from him before he could protest and stuck my tongue out. "My arms work perfectly fine." I reminded. "Plus, then we can do this." I added, before taking his free hand in mine.

He grinned down at me, kissing the crown of my head.

Then we made our way into the airport, me not being able to drop the smile from my face of true happiness and love. He really had surprised me today. Kidnapping me from my school dance and bringing me to the airport to board a plane with an unknown destination was pretty intense and wild, but I embraced it all happily.

The hurt and pain I had felt these past three months didn't matter as I felt those emotions all diminish the second he had grabbed me. What mattered was that he was here now, and he was here to stay. I knew this man's heart, and I knew his intentions were pure and genuine. I would follow him to the edge of the earth if I had to, and I knew he felt the same when he turned back to shoot me an intense look with those mesmerizing green eyes that made my heart skip.

"I love you Skylar." He spoke, his eyes electric and vibrant in the dark night.

"I love you too Nathan." I said back without hesitation, meaning every syllable.

He then pulled me closer to him as we entered the airport, kissing my cheek.

I was finally happy. Not that I wasn't before with my friends. But now I felt one hundred percent happy. I had no more concerns, no worrying thoughts, nothing could dampen my mood. I finally felt complete after these three, painfully long months and I had a feeling Nathan felt the same, because he couldn't keep his eyes off of me and almost crashed into an old couple at one point.

I couldn't wait to get away with this boy.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A/N

YAYYY! I loved writing this :D

FINALLY Nathan's back and I have a lot more things planned for the two of them.... No its not what you're thinking, geeze get your mind out of the gutter -__-

THE LAST DARE WAS SO AWESOME TO READ THEY WERE ALL SO HILARIOUS BUT THE WINNER IS...........................................@_skittles___ WHO SAID:

Okay I did it again cus yolo :) so I was out with a few of my friends and they were ordering food and I saw this couple standing outside the restaurant so I went out to them and busted a move and started twerking and omg the guy was definitely enjoying the show but the girl goes "wtf are you at?" And I said "I'm showing the world my hella mad skills and I know you is jelly girl!" And she stormed off and the guy went racing after her...after he high fived me

YAAAS TWERK TEAM YAAAAAAAAAS

.. idk

SO THANKS FOR READING I HAVE TO GO MY TEA'S READY I LOVE YOU ALL SO VERY MUCH, HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY!

1 Vote = 1 Point to feed Nathan's ego.. GET VOTING PEOPLE HAHAH LETS MAKE HIS HEAD EXPLODE XD

So you know the drill ;) Vote, comment and the next dare is: I need you guys to come up with your best pickup line and use it on a random stranger. I'd love to read your pickup lines and TELL ME THEIR REACTION! HEHEHEH

So you must be a fruit, coz honeydew you know how fine you look? ;D hehehe bye now

~Ghostface