Promise~ A whisper tries to comfort me as an engine rumbles in the darkness somewhere far away. Fear creeps up my spine as the noise keeps getting harder, this can't be... The haunting sound of iron clashing against iron, screeching tires, and breaking glass embedded in my brain. My body shivers in terror. The smell of burned rubber and iron lingers around me like a blanket I can't get rid of. Feeling as if I can't breathe, while I urge my feet to keep moving as fast as they can carry me and I desperately look around. Matty! I want to scream in my dismay, but my vocal cords are twisted and burning unable to make a sound. Don't die... Salty tears trickle down my cheeks. My feet numb as I hastily climb over the railing. You can't die! I freeze, my eyes frantically taking up the destruction beneath me, where is he?!

Not even remembering how I managed to get down the steep hill in the first place, I inhale and exhale in rapid movements my lungs ablaze. Every fiber in my body is screaming at me, feeling hot, on fire, same as the totaled car in front of me. He's not here! I panic, scrambling around the vehicle trying to find him.

All the blood drains from my face when I see a shadow lying on the ground a few feet away. God no... My body instantly collapses to the ground, my feet giving up on me. D-Don't you dare! I sputter frantically as I crawl up to the lifeless frame in front of me, breathing hoarsely as I reach out with shaky hands. My heart pounding hysterically against my ribcage, feeling as if it had just gotten torn to pieces. ...Don't you dare leave me alone! I plead silently, my fingers trembling out of control. You promised! I cry bending over his still body to see if he's still breathing. I won't survive. I wail, feeling the cold touch of his skin against mine.

A mixture of relief and anxiety washes over me once I notice he's still breathing. He's alive, barely, but he's breathing! I bend closer, sobbing loudly as I make sure not to move him endangering his life, even more, carefully grasping a part of his torn jacket. Salty droplets fall on his once-perfect face, clearing away specks of blood as I beg him to hold onto the sliver of life still pulsing through his veins. Please!

Somewhere along the way, I must've screamed, because the darkness around us gets drawn out by red and white lights flashing somewhere behind me in the distance. Help is coming! I weep clutching onto one of his hands for dear life, burying my face in his hair. You can't give up. I beg him in a croaky voice. Not now! Feeling his life slowly slipping away, making every passing second seem like it lasts for eternity.

'N-No~'

I whimper miserably with a shaky breath, you fucking promised! I curse infuriated with myself for feeling so powerless, my fingers stiff and unable to move. Afraid that if I loosen my grip, if only a little, it'll be over.

My eyes jolt open, my vision blurred when I feel a twitch in my hand. Thank god! I plead as his grip tightens slightly around mine, a groan escaping from his cracked lips and I start crying all over again. I'm here ...you're going to make it! I rasp in between hiccups, trying to control my sobbing as I cling to his hand even harder. Don't ever do that to me again! I whisper bleakly, my voice faltering when a warm and familiar darkness spreads over me.

'It's okay...'

Matty. My muscles relax at once. My body humming in response to the deep rumble, finally feeling safe as I let myself get swept away into nothingness.

***

'Urgh...'

I groan pinching my eyes harder as I drag a hand up to my pounding head. It hurts! I whimper when my fingers touch my scalp making me wince slightly. Fuck. I think, my teeth chattering softly once I notice my legs are only covered by a thin blanket. Where am I?

Even though my body is fighting me, I drag myself out of my deep slumber slowly opening my eyes, trying to adjust to the sharp light penetrating my skull. Ouch! W-Why am I on the couch? I wonder, but as I try to move my head but I instantly recoil. Urgh! I groan feeling as if a thousand needles are piercing my brain and eyes while I try to relax my muscles, wishing that'll make it stop.

Shit. My brain is still foggy, failing me as I try to recollect what happened last night. The only thing I remember is ...that horrid dream! One might call it a memory, a blink of the past. I call it a nightmare!

My heart twists in pain remembering everything. There was so much blood... Unconsciously I move my fingers along, remembering the sticky coldness between them. Trying to get rid of the feeling even though I know it isn't really there. I remember it all... The darkness in the air that night, the sounds, the smells, the feelings, and the pain and fear. I'll never forget the sense of terror raging deep inside my bones as I saw his motionless body in front of me... The iron smell continued to linger in the air as blood oozed out of the cuts along his back and body, and I watched him slowly bleed empty. I thought he was going to die right by my side...

I try to shake my head in order to get rid of those haunting images from the past, but the motion makes me wince once more because of my splitting headache. Fuck, dammit! I haven't had flashbacks about that incident in ...forever. I grumble, pushing those thoughts far away to the back of my mind.

When I reach my hand up to rub my eyes I hear a shuffling sound when something stiff and heavy slips from my upper body. What the~ Rigidly clenching my jaws together, I hoist myself up in a seating position. What on earth did I drink last night?! I wheeze, my head pounding as if it's about to explode from pressure when I look down at my lap. Matt's jacket? I groggily think pinching the bridge of my nose. What the fuck happened?

My system wants to panic not remembering a damn thing from last night, but my body is refusing to let it happen, already run down from the aftermath. Christ! I swear silently as I slowly haul myself off the couch, leaving the warmth of the blanket and Matt's jacket behind. I feel like absolute shit!

I breathe in deeply ignoring the wave of nausea washing over me as I look down. I'm still wearing my panties, bra, and my shirt from yesterday. Goosebumps cover my bare legs, so far so good. I sigh relieved as I scan around the living room. A gray pair of sweatpants and an off-white top with long sleeves lay nicely folded on the coffee table. Next to it, a glass of water with two aspirin. Praise the Lord! I clasp my hands together in thank you before snatching the tablets off the table, downing them quickly with some water. Once I'm done I set the glass back and grab my clothes, quickly putting them on as I hear some sounds coming out of the kitchen.

With a heavy head, I trudge toward the noise. Expecting, like any other morning, to find Rebekah messing around with another unfortunate piece of machinery, doomed to end up in the trash before the day has even begun. I need to figure out a way for her to stop breaking stuff! I sigh to myself as I wearily step into the kitchen keeping my head down as I groan.

'Bheks, please just don't touch anything! My head can't handle another one of your episodes this morning...'

'Morning, beautiful. Rebekah stayed at Tyler's last night, so you don't need to worry about that.'

My head jerks up as soon as I hear Matt's deep murmur. Shit. I curse silently, biting my lip as I stumble down on one of the barstools. I barely remember anything besides recording yesterday! I was supposed to go out with Rebekah after, right? What happened? I think anxiously looking up at Matt. What did I do?

'How are you feeling? By the looks of it, your hangover is pretty bad.'

He looks at me over his shoulder an amused glimmer in his eyes to which I can only grimace back at him. Oh, it's bad alright. He chuckles softly, turning back to the counter while whisking some eggs together. I watch his back for a few minutes, tracing the lines of his back tattoo that peep out from underneath his shirt and the other ones on his arms. I wonder what kinda tattoo he has on his back? I didn't even know he had one there and by the looks of it, it's a large one too. When we had our little run-in in the bathroom the other day I'd only gotten a good look at his chest, but not his back. Now that I think about it, it's almost as if he's avoiding letting me see it... I rub my temples, the pain distracting me too much as I continue to enjoy the silence hovering over us as I wonder what he's making.

He's wearing a black pair of sweatpants, lowly hanging on his hips paired with a tight-fitting white tank clinging onto his abs like a second skin nearly making me drool. My eyes follow the way his muscles flex perfectly underneath the almost tiny-looking piece of fabric with every move he makes. What's underneath there? I catch myself thinking. Stop it, Lexi! I curse tearing my eyes away. You got a boyfriend for fucks sake! I growl, staggering off the kitchen stool to get myself something to drink. Coffee! Caffeine always helps with everything! I sigh, rubbing my temples again.

Matt keeps silent while I roam around the kitchen to get my coffee ready and I can't help but glance at him with every chance I get, wondering what happened last night. I didn't do anything stupid, right?

Anxiety creeps up in my bones while I slowly turn around with my coffee in hand taking a sip, not knowing will probably drive me even more insane. I sigh swirling my coffee in my mug, hesitantly I look up to see Matt is eyeing me curiously from the side. I have to ask... I think, clearing my throat. Not sure how to go about it I look back down at my mug, mumbling softly.

'I barely remember anything from yesterday... I take it you took care of me then? Since Rebekah isn't here and all...'

'How much from yesterday do you remember ...exactly?'

Matt asks, his voice a little hesitant making me look up at him instantly. That doesn't bode well... Matt reads the panic on my face and heaves a sigh almost sounding annoyed as he drops his stuff. He turns back to me, irritation now clearly readable on his face as he grumbles.

'What are you thinking?'

'U-Uhm... We d-didn't~'

'You must think really low of me if you think I would take advantage of you while you were intoxicated... Not even to mention the fact that you have a boyfriend.'

His tone is harsh and the words coming from his mouth really sting, nearly making me wince in response. When I try to speak up to apologize he cuts me off, not done ranting at me.

'Matt~'

'I would never do that to anyone, let alone you! I thought you'd give me more credit than that...'

He throws his hands in the air looking utterly defeated. Goddammit. I flinch slightly, my head pounding from his loud voice echoing through the kitchen. This headache is killing me! I cuss, hoping that the asperin will kick in soon as I keep biting through the pain not knowing what I'm more ashamed of. The fact that I thought he would be capable of doing such a thing, or that a part of me wishes he had. He turns away hurt written all over his face as he bites his lip, his hands clawing at the countertop out of sheer frustration. Shit! Carefully I reach my hand out, my fingertips brushing against Matt's arm attracting his attention back to me as I whisper looking down at the ground unable to look him in the eye.

'I'm sorry alright... I just freaked out! Can you blame me? I woke up on the couch with your jacket on me, no pants... Apparently, we're alone since Rebekah's at Tyler's. I really can't recollect what happened yesterday evening, the last thing I remember was when I was recording. The rest is blurry... How did I go from girl's night with Rebekah to "this"?'

I ask twirling my finger in the air, motioning around us before rubbing my still throbbing temples. Matt scratches the back of his head, suddenly looking even more worried as he murmurs something about needing some coffee as well. He quickly sneaks past me, grabbing a mug while keeping his eyes trained on the coffee machine as he mutters.

'Rebekah called me last night to pick you up. The two of you were at a bar, you got smashed and decided to take a nap in one of the booths.'

'Jesus fuck!'

I groan sitting back on the barstool feeling mortified. I don't drink for a reason! I curse at myself, taking another sip of coffee. Why did I though?

'Why did Rebekah call you?'

I ask in all honesty, still not able to connect the dots. Why didn't she call Ian? Matt grunts almost as if someone just stabbed him before slowly turning to me as he scoffs.

'Because she was pissed off at me and I guess she figured she couldn't exactly ring your boyfriend, considering the circumstances.'

I bite my lip unsure whether or not I want the answer to why he's being so vague about it, but I decide to press for answers regardless. I can't stand not knowing!

'Why would she be mad at you? And more importantly what circumstances are you talking about?!'

Matt takes a swig of his coffee, closing his eyes trying to recollect himself before he says awkwardly looking down at his mug.

'We sort of had a fallout earlier that day. I'm pretty sure that's what drove you to drink in the first place... But I guess you don't remember that either? Rebekah was fed up with the two of us and she told me we had to "fix it" ourselves.'

His voice sounds almost a bit cynical as he plainly asks, or states, that I don't remember having a fight with him. I can only smile sheepishly as an uncomfortable silence lingers over us, both not knowing how to behave right now. Naturally, I want to ask him what the fight was about, but another part of me is also anxious to find out. Knowing that it was something that drove me to the bottle last night is making me hesitate. I don't want to feel like crap all over again. Matt sees the disturbance on my face and sighs straightening up. He walks back to where he was earlier as he says with a soft smile on his face trying to ease my nerves.

'How about we go slow on this one and have some breakfast first? I'm making my famous hangover cure, thought you could use it.'

'No way! You're making eggs ala what the heck?! I haven't eaten that in years!'

I squeal ignoring the stabbing pain in my skull, already feeling in a better mood. Matt chuckles at my enthusiasm turning on the stove.

'I can't believe you even remember that name!'

'Hahah! Of course, I do. We came up with it together one night when we were stoned and got cravings, it was the perfect name because~'

'...Because there are too many ingredients to give it any other decent name.'

Matt finishes my sentence, a melancholic smile playing on his lips as I exclaim loudly making both of us chuckle softly.

'Exactly!'

After he buttered up the pan and puts some diced meat in, he looks at me over his shoulder as he asks.

'Was it that long ago since you last got hammered? If you haven't eaten it in years, I mean.'

I shake my head trying to disregard the pounding feeling between my ears as I huff.

'No, we haven't eaten it ever since you left for Vegas...'

Matt looks taken aback, not able to avert his eyes while he puts the egg mixture in the pan before turning back to me as he says.

'I've made this so many times for you girls, I can't even count. The two of you should've been able to remember the recipe by heart. Are you really saying you never made it while I was gone?'

This time it's my turn to laugh as I take another sip of my coffee before I mutter slightly ashamed swinging my legs back and forth on the stool.

'We, or rather I, gave it a few attempts. None of them worked out though... Rebekah wasn't tempted to try because the both of us were afraid she'd light the damn kitchen on fire. I never seemed to get it right, so eventually, we just gave up trying.'

Matt shakes his head laughing softly as he turns back to the stove, adding a bunch of other ingredients. Amongst them cheese, cream cheese, and some hot sauce. I take a deep breath, enjoying the old familiar smell that lingers in the kitchen. Matt rattles the pan adding a dash of seasoning before he puts a lid over it, turning down the fire to a simmer.

'I don't blame you for trying to keep Bhek's out of the kitchen, she broke down the dryer yesterday as well.'

'She did what now?! Oh, Jesus Christ! This is starting to spiral out of control lately, I can't keep replacing everything all the time. '

'Don't worry, I told her I'd take a look at it. It's the least I can do for letting me stay here. Her skills truly are unsurpassed, how do you put up with that?'

I give him a sly smile, shrugging my shoulders before I say looking out of the window.

'She's my sister and I love her to pieces. Alex had moved away before mom and dad died, so it was just the two of us. I couldn't really leave her on her own now, could I? She would've killed herself within a frikkin week. It's a good thing we both have a good income, otherwise, she would've left me broke after everything she has smashed up until now...'

'I'm sorry about your parents Lex... I haven't given you my condolences yet, but Rebekah called me right after it happened. It must've been hard on you both, especially since they died so suddenly. I'm truly sorry.'

Matt gives me a small smile looking solemn before he turns back to the stove, finishing up on breakfast.

'...I rather not talk about it. Thanks though, really.'

I tell him in a soft voice, biting my lip. It's a sore subject. Not only with me, but with my entire family. We barely ever talk about it. Matt seems to get the message. Most likely because Rebekah never talks to him about it either, and he smiles softly at me as if telling me it's okay while he lays down a few pieces of bread on two plates and turns off the fire. I eye him thankfully while watching him work as he drops the eggs onto the plates, adding a pinch of salt and pepper before walking over to me. He holds both plates up high in the air, a little smirk tugging on his lips as he says.

'Now tell me again how sorry you are for accusing me of fondling you while you were wasted. Otherwise no breakfast for you, beautiful...'

'Matty!'

I shriek, heat creeping up my face. Where the hell did that come from? Barely able to hold his gaze, I jump up in the hope of distracting him as I tug on his arm and whine.

'T-That's no fair! I already told you I was sorry! Don't blackmail me with your delicious cooking, that's cheating!'

Matt's head drops down his eyes, taking me in as he asks amused.

'...My what?'

I bite my lip tearing my eyes off my plate, which is still out of reach. Shit. I curse to myself as I look back at Matt when I realize his face is only inches from mine, making me almost stumble backward from the intensity of his gaze as I mumble.

'D-Don't act so surprised, we both know how ridiculously good you're at cooking!'

'Never heard you say it aloud though...'

He continues with a sparkle in his eyes. I ought to put my foot in it! I swear silently, my cheeks still burning.

'Maybe that's because I don't like to blow smoke up your ass, you get too cocky! Which in turn usually makes us fight. So if you'd like to avoid that predicament, you better stop cheating ...and give me my damn breakfast.'

I grumble the last part making another attempt to jump for my plate of food, but failing miserably. Why is he so godforsakenly large? Matt starts laughing more loudly, giving in as he puts the plates down on the table and says humor lingering in his voice.

'So I'm the cheater now, huh? It was only fair after what you did yesterday, even if you don't remember it.'

The mischievous glimmer from earlier still lingers in his eyes while there isn't any resentment in his voice, which actually seems rather odd, and I look at him questioningly as I sit back down. What's that supposed to mean?

Matt knowingly lifts his eyebrow a smile still plastered on his face. Asshole. Like a wild animal that gets probed with a piece of meat to gain its trust I carefully reach out to my plate, dragging it closer with one finger not averting my eyes from Matt's. If we really had a falling out yesterday... I wonder, a moan nearly leaving my lips as the delicious smell of his breakfast hits my nostrils. Then... Why are you acting so ...nicely? I mull getting even more suspicious while reaching out to grab a fork. Who cooks breakfast for someone they're mad at? Still grinning wildly Matt spins his fork between his fingers studying my every move. Somethings off...

He lazily picks up a piece of bread together with some of the eggs and takes a bite ushering me it's safe to eat. Okay, so the food isn't spiked, what is it then? Matt drops his gaze and continues to eat his food, humor still written on his face as I slowly take a bite. Pure and utterly heaven! I groan, briefly closing my eyes. I've missed this. My shoulders droop as I relish in the taste feeling like someone just turned back time. I really fucking missed this!

When I open my eyes back up I see Matt is staring at me. Fuck! ...Did he really just watch me having sex with his food? I swear, his emerald green eyes drawing me in, almost leaving me short of breath. He swallows his bite and slowly lays down his fork, his eyes never leaving mine. Why are you looking at me like that? I ask myself as I tug my lip between my teeth. You look everything but angry... Half-heartedly I lay down my hand, keeping my fork between my fingers as I ask him in a whisper, determined to get to the bottom of this.

'...Why did we fight yesterday?'

His eyes shake slightly, not expecting me to dive straight into the subject and he lets out a small sigh. Just get it over with. I plead him with my eyes. I don't want to fight again, but I can't stand this elephant in the room! He licks his lips, the tension around us suddenly shifting before he speaks up.

'After Rebekah wrecked the dryer, along with one of her favorite dresses ...just ask her for a recap on that one. She asked me to swing by the studio to tell you she was running late.'

'...Y-Yeah?'

I sputter, an anxious feeling creeping up my spine. Please don't tell me~ Matt nods reluctantly, afraid of my reaction reading the fear in my eyes. Oh, fuck! I curse internally as I look down at my plate, my cheeks flaming hot. This is bad! I can feel his eyes are still trained on me as I absentmindedly play with my food while he continues in a cautious voice.

'Later I, or we, found out Ryan kinda set the whole thing up. He convinced me to stay and listen to your recordings ...so yeah. I know, Lex.'

Of course, this would be one of Ryan's little plans goddammit. I tap my feet, quickly scooping up another bite of food as I'm desperately trying to figure out something to say. I'm so screwed!

'Listen, it's fine, don't say anything. We got into a fight yesterday because I acted like a dickhead not knowing what to tell you because I was shocked as well. Let's just ...skip the fighting part, alright?'

I nod my eyes still glued on my plate. I can't believe he has to fucking explain to me that he knows I wrote those songs about him! I swallow hard, my mouth dry as I'm trying to find the strength to look up at him. God this is so embarrassing! I lift my gaze slightly looking up at his chest, my heart not strong enough to make eye contact as I whisper.

'Without going into much, erm, detail... Can you clear up a few things for me? Not that this isn't mortifying enough already, but I just have to know. Like what I did to Ryan after I found out what he was up to, and what happened after that? Where did I go? And, erm, what songs did you hear precisely?'

I ask with a shaky voice feeling small and vulnerable. Matt picks up on it too and he leans his elbows on the counter dipping his head down slightly his eyes finding mine, a determination written in them as he says.

'I'll tell you whatever you want to know Lex... Just don't freak out, alright? Rebekah and I both didn't anticipate you'd get so blacked out drunk you wouldn't remember a thing in the morning, it isn't a shameful thing to ask what happened. I would wanna know too if it was me, even if the circumstances are more than a little awkward.'

I nod slowly, biting my lip as I wait for him to continue. Please tell me I didn't make a complete fool out of myself... I breathe as a soft smile spreads on Matt's face.

'I don't know for sure if I got the names of the songs right, so don't shoot me if I make a mistake on that part. Yesterday kinda went on in a blur for me too...'

He smiles sheepishly and I nod again, finally grasping the fact that this is just as uncomfortable for him as for me.

'If memory serves me right the first one was, Never be the same. I didn't have a clue at the beginning. The only odd thing was the way Ryan was creeping behind me, following my every move. At first, I thought he was into me ...being gay and all. Luckily I found out later, that wasn't the case.'

I can't help but giggle softly, imagining Ryan flaunting over Matt when he has no clue what was about to happen. That almost makes it funny... I laugh sideways, Matt reading my thoughts as he grumbles.

'Yeah, I know, you'd pay money to see that. You told me that yesterday already...'

I lift my hands up in defense as if to say "I don't remember" making him grin slightly in response before he continues while I finish my food in between.

'I did think it was strange hearing you singing break-up songs. It just didn't make any sense to me since you're together with Ian and all... Then you started singing your next song, Never be the same.'

Matt pauses for a second, gazing into my eyes his expression unreadable. Fuck. Why did he have to hear that one out of all the other ones?! I swear, biting my lip, wanting to kick myself in the butt. I remember recording up until then, I also remember feeling incredibly antsy for the entire day and I couldn't place why... I ponder not able to avert my eyes from Matt. The jig is definitely up. I cuss silently before he continues in a low voice.

'I didn't know until I heard the lyrics when you were singing about that night in LA... After that, it wasn't hard to connect the dots. I knew you were talking about me, even if you made it sound otherwise. I told you that.'

'...You did. Shit, I knew I had to go with something less obvious! Goddammit.'

I swear, wishing I could punch myself in the face. I was holding onto a scrap of hope I could still talk my way out of it, obviously, I can't.

'For what it's worth, I'm more stunned than anything. No matter how gladly I'd like to get to the bottom of it though, I don't think we have enough time to cover those grounds...'

'Agreed.'

I state quickly, wanting to delve my head in the sand for a little while longer until we breach that particular subject. I can't, not now... Knowing that if we delve deeper into detail about it, it would take us longer than breakfast, lunch, or dinner combined. Matt looks troubled, a shitload of questions must be swirling through your head... I sigh, but he decides it's best to leave it for another time. Thank fuck.

'At last, you did I believe it was ...I don't want to live forever? Honesty, it was all a blur from then on out. I barely remember the lyrics, too gobsmacked to listen clearly. I just watched you while my mind was working in overdrive... Before I knew it, everything went quiet and you were standing in front of me looking just as freaked out as I was.'

'Jesus... This is fucked up, isn't it?'

I grumble deflated as I lay down my fork, finished with breakfast. Matt wryly huffs a laugh, asking as he picks up my plate and walks back to the sink.

'What is? The fact that I know? Or that I have to be the one to tell you since you forgot?'

'Both!'

I groan, my eyes searching around for my pack of cigarettes while Matt puts the dishes in the dishwasher and I mumble.

'God, I need a smoke right now...'

'Oh, now that you bring it up. Rebekah and I know about your relapse as well.'

I can't help but crackle up, considering the irony. This whole ordeal is what drove me to my relapse in the first place... I think, opening one of the drawers. Probably won't end anytime soon either if life continues to throw me curveballs like this. I sneer as I walk over to the window, opening it before lighting the end of my cigarette while I huff.

'It's my life Matty, I'm under a lot of pressure. I knew you guys would give me hell for it, but right now I really don't give a fuck as to what you think of it. It seems rather significant right now, don't you agree?'

Matt walks over to me shaking his head as I lean back blowing out some smoke, enjoying the taste of it in my mouth. What can I say? It eases the nerves... He grabs my pack, pulling one out for himself as he says.

'Why would you think we would judge? I would be the last person entitled to tell you what you can and can't do. I smoke too, remember?'

I sigh, straightening my neck a little so he's in my view as I murmur before taking another draft.

'I know. But when you live in my world, where everyone wants to know every bloody thing about you? It just makes you want to shut everyone out sometimes...'

'Living in the spotlight isn't all it's cracked up to be, is it?'

He asks taking a whiff with a smile on his face, though it doesn't quite reach his eyes. You have no idea... I sigh while blowing out some smoke. Matt leans back next to me looking out of the window as I ask, trying to get back on track.

'Anyways. That aside, what happened next? I mean when we were both freaked out, knowing what was going on and all?'

I look at him sideways getting kind of impatient now, wanting to know the rest of the story. It's like I've missed out on some of the best gossip in town, only this time it's about me. Matt chuckles blowing out some more smoke, looking amused as he says.

'Before I could even get a word out, you dragged Ryan outside, livid. I swear he was about to piss his pants... I don't know what exactly happened down the hall, I couldn't hear. I didn't try to eavesdrop either! I figured we were in enough of a mess already... The cameraman can vouch for me, he was still finishing up his work in the room. You're free to ask.'

I lift an eyebrow at him, not even I am that distrusting. I take another draft, it wouldn't have mattered anyway, you already know the worst of it. I think as I blow out some smoke, otherwise keeping my mouth shut not wanting to interrupt him.

'The only thing we overheard was that Ryan screamed something at you along the lines of "No, you're not!" He yelled it so loudly, I couldn't not hear it. What it was about exactly you should ask him, not me. When both of you got back, Ryan scrambled around to get his stuff so he could leave. Neither of you looked angry, so I guess that's a good thing?'

'Don't worry about it, it's what Ryan and I do. He pushes me out of my comfort zone when he notices something's up with me, and I smack his head every time he does. It'll be fine.'

I say smiling as I tap off some ash. Poor Ryan, I should probably apologize when I see him later... We barely ever fight, or rather, I hardly ever hear Ryan raise his voice. For Matt to tell me that he must've yelled so hard that he heard it, meant it was one hell of a serious talk. Knowing myself, I put him through the wringer for what he did. Matt brushes his finger against the bud of his cigarette, also getting rid of some ash while still gazing outside as he continues to talk, his voice wavering ever so slightly.

'You managed to throw me off guard though ...when I saw you had been crying.'

My body jumps at his revelation making my head snap up to him. S-Shit... I breathe as I continue to look at him, hoping he'll continue without me having to ask. He keeps staring outside, unable to look over at me as he says.

'I didn't know what to do so I teased you to get rid of my own uneasiness, knowing it was most likely me who made you cry... You got pissed off, not that I could blame you, things escalated quickly and you stormed off.'

He stops for a minute, taking one last draft and collecting his thoughts before pushing the cigarette out into the ashtray. Mine long gone by now. At least he's being honest... I think, studying the agonizing look on his face as I joke my voice barely a whisper.

'That sounds like us...'

He jerks his head to me, his eyes shaking with torment as he says with a pained voice.

'No, it wasn't... God, Lexi. When I found out you didn't remember what happened a part of me was happy at first. I was glad you didn't recall how I acted toward you because I was bloody ashamed of myself! This was nothing like how we usually bicker. I hurt you, badly.'

His words make my soul tremble, hurting to see him like this. I've never seen you look so ...tortured. With trembling fingers I want to reach out for him, feeling the overwhelming need to comfort him but he won't let me. He steps back slightly, his eyes full of anguish as he chuckles sardonically mocking himself.

'Geh-eh... How strange, right now I almost wish you would remember what went down yesterday. At least then you would be chewing my head off right now, instead of you trying to frikkin' comfort me. This just feels wrong.'

He twists his head away from me, clenching his eyes shut together. It's not entirely true though, I can see it in your eyes... His muscles shake slightly, contracting as he balls his hands into fists. You wanna take all the blame right now, but my heart tells me that it isn't right. I hurt you too, even if I forgot how... My vision gets blurry and before I know what I'm doing, I grab a hold of his arm as I rasp.

'M-Matty...'

His muscles jump as soon as my fingers brush against his skin and he turns to look at me. The deep green pools that are his eyes, suddenly boring into me as if he tries to take a peek into my soul for the answers he needs desperately. I don't know what it is, or how I did it, but I know I'm right. We're so close I can feel his breath against mine and my heart starts pounding out of control. The suffering written in his eyes is making my heart bleed from agony. Me not remembering, it's as if I've just kicked you while you were already down. I look at him dejected, not knowing where to begin. I lick my lips trying to get rid of my dry throat so I can say something but Matt beats me to it as he whispers his voice wavering.

'D-Don't... Please, let me get this out first?'

I give him a weak nod, not letting go of his arm while I keep gazing into his breathtaking eyes. I know I probably shouldn't be doing this, especially because of Ian. My mind tries to reason with me, but my body refuses to cooperate frozen in place. I just can't stand that look on your face. With his other hand, his fingertips softly run over my fingers where I'm holding him as he says in a low voice.

'I ran after you to apologize... I wanted to tell you how sorry I was. Tell you what an absolute dickhead I was, but~'

'I wouldn't listen.'

Surprise washes over his face, if only for a second when I finish his words. Even if I don't recall it, I'm not stupid. I know what I'm like when I'm angry. I tell him with my eyes as he grinds his teeth together pondering over something before he squeezes my hand, his touch sending shivers through my spine as he smiles softly.

'Something like that, yeah... Rebekah intervened right around that time, and soon after, I left. Pissed off at the both of you.'

His fingers dig in my skin, as he bites the inside of his cheek keeping himself from saying more. We ganged up on him, or at least in his mind, we did. He turns his arm so he's holding mine now between his large gruff hands, almost making my skin ripple from delight in response. Yup, it obviously had been a bad idea getting in such close proximity! I breathe, trying to keep my head in the game as a mere touch of him manages to disarm me. His broad figure towering over me and his guilt-written eyes holding me captive as he rasps in a hoarse voice.

'You have no idea how sorry I am to make you cry like that! I've never seen you so broken and in so much hurting ...and I just left you there.'

Without warning he slams me into his sturdy chest, cradling me close to him. D-Definitely. Not. Good! I screech to myself, trying my best not to freak out as he whispers next to my ear his voice breaking.

'I'm s-so sorry, beautiful!'

His husk voice filled with so much emotion that nearly makes my knees go weak. S-So close! I whimper, my own body betraying me as I yield instantly underneath his touch leaning into him. The world around us disappears for a second as I stay huddled up against him, his warmth radiating through my body. This won't end well... My brain panics, my heart hammering in my chest as he tightens his grip around me pleading in a low voice.

'I never should've left you there! No matter the circumstances, I should've made sure you were alright! Rebekah was right, it was my mess to fix and I left you hanging. It was my fault you got yourself wasted~'

'No!'

I yelp, wrapping my arms around his waist. It wasn't! Unable to meet his gaze, afraid that the tears brimming in my eyes might overflow I bury my head in his chest as I mutter.

'I'm perfectly capable of making my own fucked up mistakes, that wasn't your fault!'

'But if I'd stayed~'

He tries to intervene but I won't let him, clinging onto him even harder as I whisper.

'If you'd stayed, the whole thing probably would've blown up in our faces. You did the right thing by walking away at that moment.'

'How can you be sure of that if you don't even remember?'

'I'm sure because I know myself! Trust me, you haven't seen the worst of me...'

I tell him quietly, mocking myself. In fact, it's becoming a pattern. I huff silently and roll my eyes. This was the second time I've tried to forget about something between us and turned to drinking... Not that I would ever admit that to him. I feel a stab of regret coming to that conclusion. In the end, it only makes matters worse. I mutter to myself, clutching onto Matt as I continue in a throaty voice.

'...When I'm like that, I need space to think. Believe me when I say that I know what I must've felt yesterday. I-It isn't really hard to imagine...'

'Then why aren't you mad now?!'

He asks in disbelief, turning my head up to look at him. Don't do this Matty... I plead as I try to avert my eyes. But he won't let me and cups my face, almost demanding an answer out of me.

'Because it kills me to see you like this!'

I whimper a tear leaking from the corner of my eye as I gaze up at him, his own wavering with emotion as well. Even after everything, I can't stand to see you in pain... I wail silently, not daring to speak them out loud. I know I can't keep doing this, I shouldn't even want to! I just can't fucking help it! I snivel, trying to hold it together. With his thumb, he gently brushes the path of the salty liquid running down my cheek as he says in a hoarse voice.

'Don't cry, beautiful... Every time I see you in tears I want to tear someone, or something, to pieces.'

I lean in on his touch, briefly closing my eyes and savoring the feeling of his skin against mine. I have to stop this... I try to convince myself. I shouldn't be doing this! Cuddling up against your insanely broad chest, reveling in the feeling of your touch... The more my head protests, the better it feels having him near after such a long time. It's too dangerous! I softly grab his hand which still lingers at my jaw, slowly tracing my jawbone as I open up my eyes and whisper.

'Matty... Don't try to pay for my mistakes. You can't take all the blame for this, I won't let you... I know I hurt you as well, I can read it in your eyes.'

His breath hitches as I draw my hand up to his hair. You are my fucking weakness. I breathe, my fingers quivering lightly brushing through his raven locks ...and now you know. I can't even fantom the number of times I wanted to drag my hands through his messy hair, laying awake at night wondering what it would feel like... Now somehow a reality, leaving me short of breath as graze through his silky locks trying to burn the feeling into my memory. You are far too dangerous. His eyes shake slightly as I keep twirling strains of his hair around my finger and tell him in a small voice.

'For what it's worth... I'm sorry.'

'I'm not mad at you... I stopped being mad last night when I picked you up, beautiful. I'm just frustrated. My mind is drowning in a million thoughts and I'm desperately trying to pick them apart. But every time I think I've figured it out, I'm back at square one.'

'You're not the only one who's at a lost right now, Matty...'

I sigh softly, my hand lingering down his jaw. What a mess we are... My fingertips twitch slightly, enchanted by the feeling of his beard under my touch. Goddamn, this makes you even more irresistible. I smile weakly before I finally pull back. Every time I try to forget about you, you just prowl your way back in without warning. I sigh feeling hot and bothered, in more ways than one. Remember, desire and logic are two completely different things. I tell myself sternly while Matt's arms are still around me when something springs to mind, pulling me out of my daze and I ask curiously.

'What did you mean by, you stopped being mad when you picked me up?'

A grin tugs on the corner of his lips, but just when he's about to speak up his phone starts ringing behind us. In the nick of time...

Our moment interrupted he reluctantly lets go of me before grabbing his phone. I might've done something even more stupid if he continued to hold me like that. His eyes cloud over and his lips draw in a thin line as he answers the call, his voice sounding tense.

'I just noticed you send a bunch of texts. What's going on, Bheks?'

I raise an eyebrow wondering what's wrong as Matt's face turns as white as a sheet, swearing loudly.

'Oh fuck!'

He takes a step away from me, eyeing me carefully in between as he says in an urgent voice.

'No, I can't! Rebekah, listen to me for fucks sake! You gotta give me ten minutes first, we kinda hit an unexpected roadblock. How much did you let her drink anyway?! She totally blacked out, Bheks. She doesn't remember anything since the recording!'

Guilty. I bite my lip embarrassed, quirking my eyebrow at him when I hear my sister's voice shout through the phone. Something's definitely wrong! I think and I immediately try to reach out for the phone, but Matt turns away from me as he snaps back to her.

'I was in the middle of that when you called! That's why I need ten bloody minutes!'

He hangs up the phone not waiting for a reply as he turns back to me, swearing in a low voice.

'Matt, what the fuck is going on?!'

I yelp, not even bothered using his nickname. Uneasiness spreading through my chest at his sudden change in behavior. He heaves a sigh, looking me in the eyes as he says grabbing me by the arm.

'There is a situation and your phone is probably blowing up right now, but you've got to give me ten minutes to explain!'

What situation?! Is what I want to know, panic rising inside of me. Shit, my phone is probably still in my bag. I think, nodding furiously when he shakes me slightly waiting for a reply. Just spit it out! I plead, motioning for him to go on with my hands. 

'After I left you went out with Rebekah. From what she told me, you pushed over a shit load of Tequilla...'

'Urgh, that's my bloody kryptonite! Sure as hell explains the headache...'

I really was going in for the kill, huh... I groan, remembering how I got out of bed this morning. He smiles half-heartedly as I follow with a gentle smile on my face.

'Your hangover cure did the job though. I feel a lot better now, thanks...'

He waves his hand as if to say it's nothing now that he's on a time crunch and he continues.

'From what I know Rebekah tried talking to you but wasn't really getting anywhere. She called me late at night and told me she needed help. I didn't know what was going on exactly at the time, so I rushed over to the bar the two of you were at. When I got there you were passed out on the couch and Rebekah gave me hell for it, saying she was done trying to clean up our messes. She said I should fix it and that she was going over to Tylers, she got up and left in a fit.'

'Crap. If Bheks left like that, she's got to be really mad with me right now...'

Matt shakes his head, dismissing my anxiety as he murmurs.

'She's your sister, I think I'm in more trouble right now than you are. Anyway, my point is ...you were really, really drunk, Lex.'

'Yeah, I already figured that one out sherlock! Where are you going with this?'

He scratches the back of his head, looking everywhere around the room but me as he mumbles.

'Up until a few minutes ago, I didn't think much of it. At the very least, I thought it was cute... You weren't even able to stand up straight, let alone walk outside... So I ended up carrying you to the car.'

'Y-Y-You ...c-c-ca-carried m-me?!'

I stutter gobsmacked, quickly averting my eyes from him as I can feel my cheeks burning several shades of crimson red. Sweet Jesus! I curse to myself as I see Matt drag a hand through his hair from the corner of my eyes, fighting to keep a smile off his face when he says.

'I did... I was a perfect gentleman, carrying you home and putting you to sleep. So no, we didn't try anything, even if you gave me plenty of chance...'

Another wave of heat washes over me as he says that. God this is embarrassing, even for me! I keep my eyes trained on the floor, wishing it would swallow me up any second now as I bite my nail stammering in a soft voice.

'W-What do you mean, I g-gave you enough ch-chance?'

He keeps quiet for a minute, making me even more anxious and I swiftly glance up at him still biting my finger. W-What did I do? Avoiding eye contact with me, not that I'm complaining right now, he looks outside as he mumbles softly.

'...When I was carrying you, you didn't want to let go of me. Twice. In the car, I eventually managed to detangle your hands from my neck. But when I was driving back it seemed like you had a nightmare, you were talking in your sleep and moving around restlessly until I grabbed your hand. That seemed to relax you a bit...' 

'D-Did you hear? I mean, what I was saying in my sleep? Wait, you were driving?'

I ask apprehensively, as I dare myself to look up at him. Since when do you get behind the wheel again? His gaze still lingers outside, the expression on his face unreadable. Please! I pleaded to myself in silence. This is bad enough as it is, I don't want him to know about those nightmares. For once, God seemed to be in my favor as Matt starts to shake his head. Waving off the driving manner as he answers.

'I don't know what you were dreaming about. Whatever you were rambling about didn't make any sense, but you sounded ...tormented. When we got back home you were grasping my jacket as if your life depended on it. Do you remember what it was about?'

He glances back to me over his shoulder as he asks that, immediately stopping in his tracks when he sees my unease. I can't believe you saw that! I grind my teeth and unintentionally hug myself thinking back to the flashbacks from that night. Why did I have that dream again? Normally I only get it whenever... He must've...  With a troubled look on my face, I turn to him and ask in a low whisper.

'This might sound like a strange question but ...did you promise me something last night?'

It's the only explanation. His body jumps slightly in surprise and I can't help but sigh in response. He did. I raise my hand to stop him from saying anything as he turns back to me, opening his mouth while I grumble bitterly.

'Don't! I knew, or I thought so because whenever someone promises me something I get flashbacks of...'

My voice trails off unsure what to tell him. I know damn well I'm not going to tell him that! Dragging one skeleton out of the closet has been more than enough for one day. If it wasn't for my praiseworthy hungover this morning I would've probably run for the hills the minute Matt told me he knew about the songs. My brain and body had yet to catch up to the trail of events that had happened since yesterday, knowing full well that I would cave eventually. It was only a matter of time and my gut tells me the worse is yet to come... I shake my head burying those thoughts for now as I mutter through gritted teeth.

'Nevermind, it doesn't matter what they're about! Anyway. Just don't make promises to me, ever, not even if I'm nearly blacked out.'

'What are you talking about? It wasn't like that Lex~'

'Matty please stop! I don't want to hear it!'

I shut him off, my resolve already starting to waver. I should've gotten out while I still had the chance, fuck! I cuss to myself. This, whatever this is what's going on between us, I never should've let it happen. 

 'You don't have to explain yourself, I really don't want you to, just forget it ever occurred! My track record with people making promises to me isn't a good one and the flashbacks aren't fun either. Just ...don't do it. I hate it when people aren't able to uphold their promises and before you ask ...they usually don't! So spare me the disappointment and nightmares, please!'

I almost beg him to keep his mouth shut, my hands trembling out of control. It isn't the complete truth, but I can't tell him that. You're the sole reason behind those nightmares... I eye him, suddenly feeling empty inside. I can't stand your promises, never have. Whenever the word promise left your lips, a catastrophe was bound to happen next. Matt eyes me carefully, not sure what to do or say. From the look he's giving me he has no idea why I'm so freaked out at the minute. And quite frankly, I like to keep it that way. Just ...zip it! I grab another cigarette, ignoring the bad feeling in my gut as I grumble looking out the window into the backyard.

'Just get on with whatever you wanted me to know, your time has almost run out.'

Ten minutes. I gave him that and I intend to keep my word, but my patience is starting to run out at this point. I just want some bloody answers about what's going on, that's it. There isn't much time left until I need to get ready and head to the studio. Luckily I didn't have to get there until noon today. My belly fills with nerves while I take a whiff of my cigarette, thinking about what will happen when I see Ryan as I'm still wondering what went on between the two of us yesterday. This sucks. Matt cuts my thoughts short, a big sigh escaping his lips making me look over at him as he mutters.

'The reason you had my jacket on you this morning is that you wouldn't let go of it when we got home. When I hoisted you out of the car you gripped it so hard, your knuckles started turning white. I tried to comfort you and told you it was okay... You calmed down a little, but inside you still wouldn't let go. In the end, I wrung myself out of my jacket so you could keep it with you. It was the only way you would let go of me.'

'What about my pants?'

I ask, my voice coming out a bit harsher than I intended to. I keep my eyes trained on one of the trees outside as if it's the most interesting thing I've ever seen in my life, trying to avoid the fact that I'm blushing several shades of red. Just thinking about being in Matt's arms is enough to make my heart tremble. The thought of me not letting go of him. So fucking embarrassing! I scowl at myself. Let alone trying to figure out where the fuck my pants disappeared to somewhere along the way! I'm still waiting for his answer when he leans against the windowsill, looking at me from the side as he mumbles.

'Do you trust me?'

I quirk an eyebrow, looking his way as I blow out some smoke unsure what to say to that. Do I trust Matty? At this point, with so many revelations? I'm not sure anymore... He has never done anything provocative that makes me question him in that kind of way, so I don't see why that would've changed now. He was really upset when I thought we might've made out, or even more than that, earlier this morning... I remind myself as I bite my lip, pondering a few seconds over my answer before I whisper.

'Yes.'

'Then trust me when I say, you don't want to know.'

When I try to object, my nerves getting the better of me he shakes his head. Fuck, what?! The little smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth a dead giveaway. He finds it bloody humorous just thinking back about it. Me, on the other hand, I'm mortified without even knowing what I did. Goddammit. I can't help but grunt irritated, some smoke coming out of my nose as Matt drags his phone out of his pocket once more, mumbling while his fingers are tapping on the screen. 

'That's about it. Other than that, nothing much happened.'

I can almost smell the lies coming off of him as he scrolls through his phone a brooding look on his face as his brows draw together, but I decide not to push the matter. Unsure whether or not I even want to know the answer, probably not. When I reach my neck out, hoping to see what he's looking at he turns the screen away from me again. I push my cigarette down into the ashtray not even having smoked half of it and turn to Matt with a scowl on my face as I demand, eying his phone in between.

'Tell me.'

He drags a hand through his hair, all the while making sure I'm not able to catch a glimpse of the screen as he says, his voice a little on edge.

'Fine. Just know I never meant any of this to happen, alright?'

My brows draw together not sure what he means until suddenly it starts to dawn on me. N-No... Matt instantly blocks the screen on his phone, holding it high in the air as he says in a deep rumble.

'Lex... Tell me you understand what I just said! Never in my wildest imagination did I expect this to happen, do you understand?'

'Matty, I understand. But if your life means anything to you, you better give me that damn phone and let me see! Right now!'

He sighs reluctantly, unlocking his phone with his fingerprint before handing it over and taking a step backward. As soon as it's in my hands and my eyes lock with the image on the screen I freeze. Completely and utterly shocked, blushing a shade of crimson red I'm sure I've never been before. O-Oh dear fucking lord! 

My entire body shivers, a storm of emotions brewing inside of me as I look over the photo on Matt's phone. He's carrying me like a princess pressed against his chest as he is walking out of the bar, my head nuzzled against his shoulder and neck. I look tiny in his hold... Immediately I notice the strong grip of his arms around my waist and the way he's tenderly holding my legs, while my arms are grasping around his neck. Guess that's what he meant by not letting go of him, Jesus fuck. Even with my head leaning against his broad torso, there's no question it's me. No denying the fact that it could be someone else in his arms, nothing. Just little tiny ...me! His face is turned in my direction, a loving smile on his face as if he's telling me some kind of secret that no one else is supposed to hear. G-God, we look like a c-couple... I gasp, unable to form the words out loud. 

It isn't just any picture either, it made the fucking front pages! My fingers tremble too afraid to scroll further to see if there are others while my eyes are still glued to this one. Knowing for a fact that there are more where this came from. A part of me wants to see every single one of them. Study every angle where he's holding me, how his fingers are grasping my skin, the faces he's making... I shake my head, trying to get rid of the tingly feeling spreading over my body. Get a grip goddammit! I curse to myself my eyes scanning the screen once more. The headline printed in bold lettering reads: "Lexi Davins caught with her new flame?!". I tare my gaze away from the image, tossing the phone back to Matt as I feel myself get lightheaded. H-Holy shit, this is bad! I completely understand the paparazzi at this point. Really fucking bad. On the picture, it doesn't look like a random friend bringing the sister of his best friend back home just because she's drunk. It doesn't seem like that at all! 

Shock and pressure seem to get a hold of me and I can't help but start laughing hysterically falling back on one of the kitchen stools. Hahaha, isn't this fucking priceless! Matt keeps motionless, tucking his phone away while he eyes me as if I've just gone mental which only makes me laugh even harder. New flame... Geh-eh! If they only knew the fucking irony in that! I sputter to myself clutching my stomach. They could've come up with a million catchy phrases along with that picture, but they had to go with that.

Rather burned by an old flame without even knowing of it! I snort, mocking myself. A seemingly eternal flame that just doesn't want to burn out, no matter how fucking hard I stomp on it. I drag my hands through my hair trying to catch my breath, still unable to stop laughing. For fucks sake, no matter how hard I try to fight it, it doesn't dim down. I mock silently, glancing over at Matty.

He's biting his lip, his intense gaze on me as he tries to read what's going on in my head. Don't bother trying, because I'm not even sure myself! I snicker, ridiculing my own idiocy as I can't help but let my eyes linger on his gorgeous figure. I couldn't even dim this fire if I poured a bucket of freezing water over it! I curse, wanting to kick myself. Too damn hot! And now this happened, the cherry on top? The whole frikkin' world knows about it too!

And then it hits me.

Delphine! She's probably going nuts right now. Especially since the content of my next album is about being bloody heartbroken.

Ryan, o my God! He's probably having a frikkin' field day making collages from the best fucking pictures he can find, fangirling big time! I groan at the prospect of seeing him, catching up with him will take a whole new turn because of this. He's never going to let me forget about this! I cuss, kicking my foot against the table as I grab my coffee gulping what's left of it before I slam it back on the table.

Bloody Rebekah! I'm just going to slaughter her whenever I see her! I don't even care whatever the fuck she was mad at me for! I can't believe she just let this happen! In whatever fucked-up world could she think that leaving me, drunk, with Matty, alone, was a good idea?! She was going to have it later, that much I have already decided.

As I get up from the chair to go grab my phone and see the damage that's done I almost collapse when my thoughts come to a screeching halt. Fuck ...Ian!

The blood drains from my face as soon as reality hits me that there's no excuse good enough to talk myself out of this one. Fuck, fuck, fuck! My nails dig into the wooden table as I try to keep myself steady, my legs getting wobbly. Without a doubt, he has seen the photo ...probably everyone has before me! I whimper, unsure what to do. Fucking hell, I can't tell him the real reason because he knows I don't drink. Even if I would, why would Matt out of all people be the one to carry me home over him? My eyes dash around the room in a state of panic as I try to come up with a good excuse. Shit, shit, shit! The way those photos look don't help much either and I can't help but yammer frustrated with Matt.

'Bridal style, really?! Was that really necessary?!'

As soon as the words leave my mouth I realize those are the first ones coming from my lips since he showed me that picture. Crap. I cuss biting my lip when I see Matt's cheeks flush slightly. D-Don't give me that face! I instantly look away heat creeping up my spine as I see him push his hands in his pockets while he scoffs slightly offended.

'What did you want me to do? Throw you over my shoulder like a sack of potatoes?'

I pull my hair in frustration, pretty sure I pulled some out for real too, pacing through the kitchen while keeping my eyes trained on the floor. I try my best not to laugh at his comment but I just can't stop myself, a grin playing on my lips. 

'Asshole.'

I sneer at him in a soft voice, still not able to look up at him. That position... Jesus, it was just too intimate! He throws his hands in the air, slightly frustrated as he yelps.

'Goddammit, Lex. I told you I didn't mean for this to happen!'

'I know! Fuck, I know. But what the hell am I going to tell Ian?!'

'What?! Just tell him the fucking truth, nothing happened other than I brought you home!'

'That's the fucking problem, I can't!'

I roar helplessly looking up at him. I must look like a madwoman who's about to lose her shit, but Matt doesn't back away. Instead, he quirks his eyebrow and stays silent for a second before he asks confused.

'Why?'

'I-It's complicated!'

I mutter, unsure what else to tell him. Because if I tell him I was drunk, I also have to fucking tell him you were the reason! He can't know. The fact that you brought me home afterward would only make Ian even more furious than he already is going to be! My head starts throbbing again, this time with another type of headache as I try to figure a way out of this mess. Matt keeps his eyes on me, clearly not pleased with my answer. Interested in why I would want to lie to Ian. Matt opens his mouth to say something and I can't help but snap, cutting him short.

'Nevermind, forget about it. I'll figure it out! Matty, you have no idea how much impact this has on everything! I need my phone. I have to speak to Delphine, she knows how to fix these kinds of things.'

Matt nods carefully, still debating whether or not to press the subject of Ian further. I eye him dangerously not to drive me over the edge right now. I've had more than enough for one fucking day! I continue to glare at him so he knows I actually mean it. He holds his hands in the air in surrender as he looks to the side and I mutter in a cold tone.

'Until further notice, you can't leave this fucking house.'

'Are you serious? You're giving me house arrest?'

He groans irritated and I walk up to him, smacking the back of his head as I yell.

'I'm not grounding you, bloody moron! But I'm pretty sure paparazzi are swarming the front gate, hoping to get another scoop, and there's no way in hell you are going to stroll out of that front door! At least not until I get this shit resolved!'

'For fuck's sake, Lex! God knows how long it would take for them to go away?'

'And who's fault is that?!'

I can't help but hiss back at him as I cross my arms. Exactly. I think although I know it's a low blow. You were only trying to help, shit just turned sour. I sigh. You're just too sweet for your own good! You don't know how brutal this world in the spotlight is. I contemplate, looking up at him as I say.

'Sorry, I know you meant well... But welcome to my fucking life where everyone's messing with my business... Nothing goes unnoticed, Matty. If you walk out of that front door the whole world will think we're together and that I brought you home with me.'

'Technically I was the one who brou~'

'Yeah, yeah! Jesus. Take this serious, will you?! I don't know if this has dawned on you yet, but the whole world is watching you like a hawk right now, Matty!'

He grinds his teeth, suddenly feeling more uncomfortable. Exactly, we're screwed! I look at him pleadingly, wishing he would at least do this for me and stay in the house until things would calm down again. He twists his neck in frustration as he groans.

'Alright, fuck. I'll stay inside the next couple of days.'

'And away from the windows out front?'

I quickly add before he can change his mind. However, he simply nods again giving in. I breathe a sigh of relief and give him a quick hug saying thanks before storming off to search for my bag and phone. This is going to be a long frikkin' day! When I reach the door, I stop for a second turning back to Matt hesitating for a second before I whisper in a soft voice.

'...T-Thanks anyways.'

'What for?'

'For coming to get me, and taking care of me. Thanks, Matty.'

A soft smile spreads on his lips and he nods for a third time telling me "it's nothing" as he waves me off.  But it was ...something. I turn away, walking out of the kitchen to get my phone in order to confront the overload of messages and missed phone calls I'd have to work through. Dreading some more than others. 

'...God, I can't wait for this day to be done with.'

I sigh, rummaging through my bag. 43 new messages, 28 missed calls, and 6 voicemails. My fingers fly over the screen ignoring all of it, dialing Delphine's number straight away.

Dragon lady's going to spew some fire in 5, 4, 3... I think, holding my breath until she picks up the phone.

2, 1...

Here goes nothing. I yammer, drawing back the phone from my ear as her sharp voice thunders through the speakers. I'm so fucked.

'Lexi Davins! Are you deliberately trying to ruin your entire career and everything you've worked for up until now?! Do you have any idea what a mess I woke up to this morning?!'

***

Little did I know at the time that this would be the breeze that would set in motion a much larger hurricane yet to come.