Lizzie's POV

Lizzie couldn't believe that Aiden lived in this house. The three storey modern wood cabin was perfectly architecture, melding into the forest landscape bordering the house.

Lizzie's eyes grew wide flitting from the large balcony's at each level, to the countless windows that jutted out, allowing plenty of sunlight to seep easily in and warm the house.

Aiden slips his fingers through Lizzie's bringing her attention back. She glances up at him letting a loose smile form as she gently pulls her fingers out from his.

Aiden swallows averting his eyes forward to the door. She wasn't ready for Aiden to turn his interests towards her. She needed to set up clear boundaries to ensure they only remained as friends.

God only knows the migraine that would be waiting if she told Henry that they were dating- she'd probably risk their friendship aswell, the thought turned sour in her mind.

The squeak of the doorknob snaps Lizzie back as Aiden opens the door revealing a large opening area lit up by a decadent light feature. The area tapered off into a long hallway, leading out to large French doors which opened up into their garden.

Lizzie flicked her attention to the wall, scanning the numerous photos that hung reflecting pictures spanning back from generations.

Lizzie paused at a photo of Aiden and Kat smiling whilst sitting on a tree branch.

"I was eight when that photo was taken" Aiden commented standing next to Lizzie.

"You look happy" She noted staring at a carefree boy, not burdened by the worries of the world.

"Aren't I always happy?" Aiden jokes bringing back some light-heartedness

Lizzie gives a small shake of her head, raising her eyes. "Both you and Jack should study this picture and understand what actual happiness looks like"

Aiden laughs but Lizzie notes the underlying tension. She curses herself for ruining the moment. She'd momentarily forgotten how close Jack and Aiden were.

Aiden clears his throat, "Let's head into this room here whilst we wait". He doesn't meet Lizzie's eyes as he walks into the room.

Lizzie stifled a sigh as she steps into the other room, cautioning herself to think before she talks.

The warmth of the fire was the first thing Lizzie felt as she enters the room, coffee brown leather couches surrounded the fire whilst the two bay windows to the right flooded the room in light.

"The Doctor should be here shortly" Aiden states as he gestures towards the couch.

She nods taking a seat.

"I can't believe that you live in a house like this" She admits in an effort to reignite the conversation.

He chuckles, "This house has been passed down from father to son for generations, eventually it'll be passed down to me and then I'll pass it down to our" Aiden freezes worry crossing his face before he recovers " and then I'll pass it down to my son"

"What a lovely tradition" Lizzie responds not understanding Aiden's concern.

"Doc thank you for coming" Aiden states

Lizzie turns her head as a middle aged man wearing a casual t-shirt and shorts enter. He strode in confidently, his warm blue eyes meeting hers as a smile graces his face.

Lizzie naturally returns the smile but she can't help but gaze at his summer clothing. Despite the heat of the fire, she still required her jeans and heavy coat to stay warm.

"Alpha, how can I assist you this afternoon?"

"It's just Aiden, thanks Doc"

The Doctor nods in understanding, pausing a moment longer to silently communicate with Aiden.

Lizzie eyes flick back and forth watching the silent communication transpire between them. She can't help but grit her teeth, she hated being kept in the dark, and this silent communication seemed to be occurring more often than not when she was around Aiden.

"Elizabeth how can I help you this afternoon?"

"Umm" Lizzie falters momentarily, her forehead scrunching in confusion. How did he know her name, Lizzie had never introduced herself.

"Elizabeth has sustained some bruising to her neck". Aiden jumps in before Lizzie has a chance to respond. "I want it assessed"

Lizzie's eyes widen slightly at Aiden's tone, this Doctor deserved respect.

"Thank you" Lizzie says her voice soft in comparison to Aiden's. "I think all it needs is some ice and some pain medication".

"You're in pain" Aiden states his eyes piercing hers.

"I'm fine" Lizzie asserts, reaching out instinctively to give Aiden's hand a squeeze before pulling away. "This is nothing in comparison to the cramps I felt this week".

"I see" The Doctor notes sending a harsh look in Aiden's direction.

Aiden keeps his eyes averted to the floor.

"Let's take a look at the bruising anyway". The Doctor suggests, taking a seat on the other side of Lizzie before she has a chance to disagree.

Lizzie winces as the Doctor presses his fingers lightly against the bruising. Before she has a chance to react, Aiden's moved next to her snarling at the Doctor.

"I told you to look after her not hurt her" He states his voice menacingly low.

The Doctor appears unfazed as he takes a slow step back from Lizzie.

"Aiden" Lizzie expresses sternly, stifling a sigh, his sudden change of moods was almost giving her whiplash. "You wanted the Doctor to assess me, he is doing his job. If you can't handle watching, go wait in another room".

"No" he barks before he quickly rectifies his tone with a harsh look from Lizzie. "It's my job that you're okay. I'm not letting you get hurt again.

If Lizzie was any other girl she would've swooned at his words but she holds her ground. "I know and as I told you in the car I'm fine, yet you insisted I get checked by the Doctor. What do you want Aiden. "

"It does appear that the bruises will heal within the next week or so" The Doctor says jutting in before Aiden can make a remark.

Lizzie takes this as an ample opportunity to make a quick escape before she ends up hurtling something at Aiden.

"Doctor says I'm fine" Lizzie sends a pointed look in Aiden's direction. He still hasn't said anything but Lizzie can tell from the gritted teeth and tightness in his expression that he was on his last straw.

"I've got to get going and get ready for the party tonight" Lizzie expresses as she leaves the room heading towards the door.

"Lizzie wait" Aiden exclaims catching her before she leaves. He runs a hand through his already ruffled hair. "I know sometimes my emotions can get the better of me, I am working on controlling it. It's just difficult around you, I've never had someone challenge me like you do". Sincerity shines from his face as Lizzie hesitates in the hallway.

"Why don't you stay, I can show you around the house, I can show you upstairs, the view from my balcony is incredible" Aiden says in a rush acting nervously.

Lizzie's heart beats like the wings of a hummingbird at the idea of being alone in Aiden's bedroom. Thing were moving too fast too quickly. When she woke up this morning they weren't even friends and despite all that Lizzie couldn't deny this pull that she felt towards Aiden. This was all too confusing she needed to leave, clear her head

"Thank you, maybe another time. I think I just need to go home and rest before tonight". She reaches out grabbing his hand and squeezing it, knowing that she couldn't just walk out on him.

Lizzie didn't miss the note of sadness that slipped across Aiden's face before he hid it.

"No of course, I understand let me drop you home".

"Actually, I think I'll walk"

'Bu-" Aiden goes to interrupt her but Lizzie brings up her hand

"Please Aiden" She begs. "Today has all been too much, walking will help clear my head"

"Okay" He sighs, "But can I at least give you my number, so you can text me when you get home safely.

"Yes of course" Lizzie brings her phone out and creates Aiden as a new contact.

"I'll be fine" Lizzie reassures him as she walks down the path. I'll see you tonight".

"Be safe" Is all Aiden responds with as Lizzie walks home