The next morning, Hollyn woke up to the sun shining brightly through her window. She sat up and rubbed the sleep from her eyes, yawning softly. Lottie was curled up beside her, snoring away. Hollyn smiles softly and pat her head before she got out of bed. She walked over to her closet and picked out a simple outfit before heading into the bathroom to take a quick shower. Once she was finished and dressed, she put her hair into a ponytail and grabbed her phone, smiling softly as her heart fluttered when she saw a good morning text from Cole.

After sending him a good morning message, she heads downstairs. She notices her dad was finishing making breakfast, but her mom wasn't around which confused and concerned her. "Morning, dad." She greeted as she walked over and placed a kiss on his cheek.

"Morning, honey." James smiled as he turned off the stove. He placed the plate of bacon on the kitchen island. Her eyes lit up at seeing it and she immediately reached over to grab a piece.

"Where's mom?" She asked, taking a bite of the delicious bacon.

"Oh, she's still sleeping. She had trouble falling asleep last night so I suggested she rest in today. I already fed the animals, don't worry." James replied. 

Hollyn nods in understanding. "Okay, is she feeling okay?" She questioned worriedly.

"She's alright, don't worry. Just a bit tired and stressed. That's all." James assured his daughter.

"Okay.." She sighed and took a seat at the kitchen island after grabbing a plate for herself. She grabbed some bacon and eggs, and begins eating.

"So, you and Cole, huh?" James inquired, a knowing smile on his face.

Her face flushes at his question. "Y-Yeah. How'd you know?" She asked, taking a bite of the egg.

James chuckles. "I saw him drop you off last night and kissed you goodnight." He admitted teasingly.

Hollyn nearly chokes on her food and starts coughing, her face growing even more red. "Y-You did?!"

"I'm happy for you, honey. You two have always been so close, and I'm glad you decided to take the leap." James said warmly. "It's nice to see you happy."

"Thanks, dad," Hollyn says, still blushing but managing a smile. "It feels...Right, you know? Like it was meant to be."

James smiles warmly at his daughter. "That's wonderful to hear. It's important to feel that way about someone. I'm glad you're finding happiness with Cole."

Hollyn nods, her cheeks still slightly flushed. "Yeah, it really does feel right. I'm excited to see where things go. It's been a whirlwind, but I think it's what we both needed. We're still figuring things out, but...It's nice to know we're in it together."

As they continued eating, James looks at her thoughtfully. "Just remember, relationships take work and communication. Don't be afraid to talk things through and support each other. I'm sure you two will be just fine."

"Thanks, dad. I'll keep that in mind." Hollyn replies with a grateful smile. "I really appreciate your advice and support. It means a lot to me."

James gives her a reassuring nod. "Anytime, sweetheart. I'm always here for you, whether it's about relationships or anything else." He told her with a fond smile. 

She and her dad ate breakfast and talked about random things. It was nice, spending time with him. Once they were done eating, they cleaned up the kitchen. She then kissed her dad's cheek and went outside. She was surprised to see Jackie and the Walter's on her front porch.

"Uh, hi?" She said with confusion, her eyebrows furrowing. "Not that I mind the visit, but what are you guys doing here?"

"Well, your boyfriend is still pissed at me and didn't give us the key to the car when he left." Alex grumbled, crossing his arms over his chest.

Hollyn sighs heavily and mentally scolds Cole in her mind. She made a mental note to talk to him later. "I'm sorry about that, Cole's just...Well, he'll come around eventually, but I'll talk to him about it later. You guys can go with me, if you want."

"Yeah, that'd be great. Thank you." Jackie smiled gratefully.

"No problem. Let's go." Hollyn replied, smiling softly.

The group heads off the porch and walked to her car. She unlocked it and they all get inside. They buckle up and then she backed out of the driveway. Jackie sat up front with her while the Walter's sat in the back. As Hollyn began driving down the street, she glances at Jackie who was staring out the window.

"You doing okay?" Hollyn asked softly, her eyebrows furrowing.

"Yeah, yeah, I'm fine." Jackie replies, giving her a reassuring smile. "How are you? Is your mom doing okay?"

"Yeah, I'm good and so is my mom. She's just...Really tired. And keeps getting more weak. I'm a bit worried." Hollyn said truthfully, her gaze returning back to the road.

"I'm sure she'll be okay, Hollyn. She's strong, just like you." Jackie assured her, her expression soft.

Hollyn gave her a grateful smile, feeling touched by her words. "Thanks, Jackie. That means a lot."

Jackie nodded and they fall into a comfortable silence. Hollyn turned on the radio and soft music fills the car. When they arrived at the school, they thanked Hollyn for the ride and the group got out of the car. They all walked toward the school building and separated after saying goodbye to each other. Hollyn went to her locker to gather her things before heading to her first class. She was surprised and happy to see Cole standing at her locker.

"Hey." She smiled as she walked up to him, kissing his cheek. He grinned and leaned down to kiss her properly. His hand came up to cradle the side of her face, his thumb stroking her cheek. Now that he could kiss her whenever he wanted, he couldn't help himself. He was addicted to the taste of her, the feel of her lips against his. She responded eagerly, her hands coming up to clutch the lapels of his jacket. She was just as addicted to him as he was to her. They kissed until they were both breathless, their chests heaving.

"Hi, beautiful." Cole murmured, pressing his forehead against hers.

"Hi, handsome." Hollyn giggles, her heart fluttering at his actions as her face burned. She doesn't think she will ever get used to the fact that he was her boyfriend. He was hers. He pulls back, grinning at her but she wore she saw a hint of blush on his cheeks. "How are you this morning?" She asked curiously.

"Better now that I've seen you." Cole grins, his blue eyes twinkling. "And kissed you. I've been wanting to do that all morning."

Hollyn's blush deepens and she looks down shyly. "Me too."

"Good. I'm glad we're on the same page." He chuckled, lifting her head up when he cupped her face and kissing her once more. She smiled into the kiss and he felt his heart swell. She made him so happy, and he never wanted to let her go.

She sighs and reluctantly pulled away, her expression turning serious. He then grimaces at seeing the next took on her face. "I know that look. You're gonna lecture me about something, aren't you?" He groaned, leaning his head on hers.

"I have to. You have no idea how pissed Alex was. Cole, just because you're upset with him doesn't mean you can leave your brothers and Jackie stranded like that." She chided gently.

Cole sighs heavily, pulling back and leaning against the lockers. "I'm sorry. I was angry and wasn't thinking clearly. I'll apologize to them. I promise." He reassured her, leaning down to kiss her forehead.

"Thank you." Hollyn smiled, relieved that he understood.

"Anything for you." Cole grinned, cupping her face in his hands and leaning down to kiss her passionately. She melted into the kiss and wraps her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. After a few seconds, they pull back to catch their breath, their noses brushing together.

"God, I'll never get tired of that." Hollyn giggled, smiling bashfully.

"Same here." Cole agreed, kissing her forehead. He pulled away and stepped to the side, letting her open her locker. She put her backpack inside and grabbed the books she needed for her classes. She then closed her locker and turned to face him.

"What are you doing after school?" Cole asked her as they started walking down the hallway.

"Oh, um, nothing. Why?" She questioned, looking at him curiously while she leaned into his warm embrace. His arm was wrapped around her shoulders, his hand resting on her shoulder. Her hand was intertwined with his on her shoulder, a shy smile gracing her lips.

"I was wondering if you wanted to hang out. We could go to a cafe and get some food, maybe see a movie." Cole suggests, smiling down at her. "We haven't had our first official date yet. What do you say, Holly Berry?"

"That's your way of asking me out on a date?" Hollyn questioned, laughing lightly.

"Shut up, I'm trying here." Cole playfully scoffed, rolling his eyes.

"Yeah, okay." Hollyn laughs again, shaking her head. "Try harder." She teased and nudged him.

Cole stops walking, turning to face her. He takes her free hand and lifts it to his lips, placing a soft kiss on the back of her hand. "My dear, sweet, beautiful Holly Berry. Will you do me the greatest honor and grace me with your presence at the local café and then the movies tonight? I will pick you up, of course." He asked her dramatically.

Hollyn's face turns red, but she laughs lightly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Okay, now you're just being ridiculous," She said, shaking her head but unable to hide her smile. "But yes, I'd love to go on a date with you tonight." She leaned up, bringing a hand to cup his face and kissing him gently.

"I'm not being ridiculous, I'm being romantic." Cole mumbles against her lips, smiling slightly. "And thank you." He kissed her nose, causing her to giggle.

"You're welcome. You're a dork."

"And you're a dweeb." He teased as they continued walking again, his arm wrapping around her shoulders.

"Takes one to know one." Hollyn quipped, looking up at him. He laughed and rolled his eyes. She giggled and shook her head. They talked and joked around until they reached her class.

"I'll see you later, baby." Cole spoke softly, smiling lovingly as he leaned down to kiss her goodbye.

Her heart flutters as she feels her face grow warm. She can't help the big grin that forms on her lips. "Okay, bye babe." She kissed his cheek and smiled softly at him before going inside. She couldn't stop smiling for the rest of the day. 

****

In art class, she was sitting beside her friends and doing the art assignment when Grace nudges her. "So..."

"So, what?" Hollyn questioned, raising her eyebrows at her friend. She was confused and was a little nervous by the mischievous look on her face.

"What's this I hear about you and Cole being a thing?" She asked excitedly, leaning closer.

Hollyn blushes, her eyes widening. "W-Who told you that?"

"Girl, it's obvious." Grace smirked, wagging her eyebrows.

"Obvious? How?" Hollyn asked, her eyebrows furrowing.

"For one, you're not denying it. Plus you guys basically made out in the hall earlier. Also, you're glowing. So spill. How'd it happen? How'd he ask you out? Details, details, details." Grace rambled, looking at her expectantly. She was bouncing in her seat, grinning from ear to ear.

Hollyn chuckles, shaking her head. She was blushing as she looked down at her half finished assignment. "Um, we kinda had a heart-to-heart last night and confessed our feelings in the rain."

Grace gasps. "Shut up. You had a rain kiss? That's so freaking romantic."

"Yeah, it was." Hollyn giggles, thinking back on last night. "It's kinda cliché, I know, but I didn't mind. It was perfect." She mumbled, her face burning as her heart fluttered.

"That's awesome, Holl. I'm really happy for you guys. You've been crushing on him for years. This is your dream come true." Grace teased, nudging her.

Hollyn's face gets even redder and she groans. "I hate you."

Grace just laughs and shakes her head. "Love you too."

After class, she goes to her locker to switch out her books and put her other things away. She's putting her books in her bag when someone grabs her hips. She lets out a yelp of surprise, jumping as she's spun around. Her back is pressed against the lockers and she stares into the beautiful blue eyes of her boyfriend. "Hey, Holly Berry." Cole murmured, his hands squeezing her hips. He was grinning down at her, his eyes shining with amusement.

"Hey." Hollyn squeaked, her heart racing as she looked up at him, her lips curling into a shy smile. She still wasn't used to the way Cole made her feel—like the whole world disappeared when he was near.

Cole chuckles, leaning in closer, his forehead resting against hers. "You still get all flustered around me, huh?" He teased softly, his thumbs gently brushing her sides.

Hollyn blushes even harder, biting her lip. "Can you blame me?" She whispers back, her voice barely above a breath. "You're perfect."  She can't help but say. To her, he was perfect. She was still so in awe of him and how good he was to her. After being his best friend since they were little, it felt surreal that she could call him hers now. And it wasn't a dream. This was real.

He smirks and leans in, his lips brushing against hers. "Far from it, but I'm glad you think so." He murmured against her lips before he kissed her. The kiss was slow and soft, his lips moving against hers in a gentle caress. Hollyn melted into the kiss, her hands coming up to rest on his chest, her fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt. She could feel his heart beating beneath her fingertips, its rhythm matching her own. They were both completely lost in each other, the rest of the world falling away. In that moment, there was only them and their love. She couldn't believe every kiss they had felt like this. It felt like magic—a spark igniting something deep within her. She never wanted it to end.

Unfortunately, the need for air eventually became too great and they pulled away, their breaths coming out in heavy pants. Their foreheads were still pressed together, their noses brushing against each other. She giggled and leaned forward, kissing him again. He smiled against her lips and kissed her back, his arms wrapping around her waist, pulling her closer. They didn't care they were in the hallway where anyone could see them, they were too wrapped up in each other to notice. When they finally broke apart again, he leaned down and pressed a kiss to her forehead.

"Ready for our date?" Cole asked and a giddy feeling settled over her.

"We're starting our date now?" She grimaces. "Oh, I was gonna watch Jackie's track meet tonight before our date..." She trails off, her expression turning apologetic. "Sorry."

"Hey, no, don't apologize." Cole reassures her, his gaze soft. "We can have the date after the track meet, I don't care when we have it. It's fine." He smiles softly, kissing her forehead again. "I'll pick you up after the track meet, okay?"

"Okay, thank you." She sighs in relief, a grateful smile gracing her lips. "I'll see you after the track meet."

"See you then, babe." He kissed her cheek and stepped back, his hands moving from her waist. As he walked away, he looked back at her to wink. She giggled and watched him go, her heart fluttering. She couldn't wait for their date later. 

Hollyn watches him go with a fond smile, her eyes twinkling and her heart skipping a beat. She was so in love with him. "So," She jumps at the sudden voice, letting out a breath of relief when she saw Lachlan standing by her. He had his arms crossed, looking at her with amusement. "That was intense."

"How long have you been there?" She asked, her face turning red.

"Long enough." Lachlan replied, a small smile on his lips.

"Well, shut up." Hollyn huffs, her cheeks turning red. "Let's go cheer on Jackie." She grumbled and walked ahead of him. Lachlan chuckled and followed her. They had planned to meet up and walk out to the field together. They were going to sit by Grace, Alex, Nathan, Skylar, and the rest of the art club, including Julien.

"Hey, guys!" She greeted, sitting besides Lachlan and Lillian. They sat behind Alex, Grace, Nathan, and Skyler who sat in the first row.

"Hey!" Lillian smiles at them. She furrows her eyebrows and glances around. "Cole didn't come with you?"

"Nah, I'll meet up with him later. He didn't want to go." Hollyn admitted, placing her backpack in front of her.

"Not surprised." Alex grumbles, wincing when Hollyn leaned forward to flick the back of his head. He rubs the spot she flicked, looking behind him at her with a small glare. "Ow."

"Be nice and maybe I won't flick you again." Hollyn stated, raising her eyebrows at him.

Alex rolls his eyes, scoffing. "Fine."

"Good. And Cole was sorry about not giving you the car key by the way. I did scold him about it though. He said he would apologize to you and the others...Though I highly doubt that will happen." Hollyn explained, leaning back in her seat and sighing heavily.

"Once again, not surprised." Alex mutters under his breath, glancing back at her. He caught her hand before she could flick him again. "Stop that." He huffed, narrowing his eyes at her.

"Stop being a little s*** and maybe I will." Hollyn retorted, a small smirk forming on her lips.

"Why am I friends with you again?"

"Because you love me."

"Debatable."

Hollyn rolled her eyes, chuckling as she leans back in her seat. They bantered a little more before the track team came running out onto the field and got ready. Alex pulled out a glove finger and Hollyn chuckled when she spotted 'team jackie'on it.

"Cute. Did you make that yourself?" She teased, nudging him.

"Yes, I did. 'Cause I'm a good boyfriend." Alex replied, sticking his tongue out at her.

Hollyn rolls her eyes but smiles softly at him. "Yeah, yeah, whatever." She really did think it was sweet of him to support her like that. Jackie was very lucky to have him. But she noticed out of the corner of her eye, Lachlan didn't seem too thrilled when Alex talked about being Jackie's boyfriend. Almost as if he was jealous. She raised an eyebrow and nudged him.

"You okay?" She asked, her face etched with concern.

Lachlan's head snaps up, his eyes meeting hers. He forces a small smile and nods. "Yeah, I'm good." He wasn't convincing her. She could tell something was bothering him, but she wasn't going to pry.

"You sure?" She asked softly, frowning.

Lachlan nods again, his smile a bit more genuine. "Yeah, don't worry. I'm fine, Holly."

Hollyn smiles and pats his arm. "Okay. Just know you can talk to me about anything, okay?"

"I know, thank you." Lachlan grins and placed his hand on top of hers, giving it a light squeeze. "Same goes for you. Anytime you need me, I'm here."

"I appreciate that, thanks." She squeezed his hand and pulled her hand away as she turned her attention to the track field. The girls were getting in position to run and Alex had gotten Jackie's attention, holding up the foam finger he made for her and grinning at her. Jackie flushed at that and chuckled while she smiled shyly. She then focused and waited for the whistle to blow before running.

****

After the track meet was over, Hollyn was out in the parking lot with her friends, talking about how amazing Jackie did. She had gone into the school to change out of her track clothes, and had then come back out and joined them.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the next Olympic gold medalist, Jackie Howard!" Alex announced dramatically, wrapping an arm around Jackie's shoulder.

"Great job, Jackie!" Lillian commented, high fiving her with a grin.

"Yeah, you were amazing. A total speed demon." Julien chuckled, smiling fondly.

"Awww, thanks, guys. I'm glad you all came to watch me." Jackie grinned, laughing lightly.

"I'm proud of you." Lachlan compliments, squeezing her shoulder. "You always somehow manage to keep surprising me."

"Aw, thank you, Lach." Jackie smiled, blushing lightly at the compliment.

"It's true. You're the best. I mean, you're a straight A student, track star, and one of the sweetest and most kind people I know." Lachlan added, a soft look on his face as he gazed at her.

"You're too sweet. Thank you." Jackie replied, her blush growing a bit as she smiled shyly.

The group continued talking and complimenting Jackie. Hollyn was smiling and laughing with her friends, when suddenly, she felt a pair of arms wrap around her waist. She stiffened for a moment, startled. She relaxes, however, when a familiar scent invaded her senses and a soft kiss was placed on the back of her neck.

"Hey, baby." Cole's voice whispers into her ear, his lips brushing against her skin. Goosebumps erupted on her skin and her heart raced. His touch always made her react this way. She was sure he knew how much he affected her and was enjoying teasing her. His fingers were tracing patterns on her sides, sending shivers down her spine. She was barely able to stifle a giggle. He smirks and pulls her closer. "Missed you." He mumbled into her neck.

"Even though you saw me earlier today?" She smiles shyly. "Missed you too." She admits. "I thought our date wasn't until later?" She asked, her cheeks burning. It was a nice surprise though.

"Well, I just couldn't wait any longer...If that's okay?" Cole asked, sounding a bit nervous. It was adorable.

we were having a nice conversation before you rudely interrupted." Alex scoffs, glaring at his brother. He points at Hollyn. "Don't flick my head again." He told her, knowing she was probably planning to.

Hollyn just stuck her tongue out at him and ignored his scoff. "Go ahead, you guys! We don't mind." Grace reassured them after sharing a look with the other.

"Yeah, we were all planning to leave anyway." Elise admitted.

Hollyn hesitates for a moment, glancing at Cole before looking back at her friends. "Are you sure?" She asked, her heart racing at the thought of being alone with him. Even though they've been alone before, it was different now that they were dating. She couldn't help but be nervous.

"Of course we're sure. Go have fun, lovebirds." Grace insists, grinning. "Enjoy your date."

Hollyn blushes but she smiles at her friends. "Thanks, guys." Then she remembered something as she turns to look at Jackie, Alex, and Nathan. "Can you guys find another ride home?" She asked hopefully.

"Yeah, we'll be fine." Nathan reassures her, looking at her with amusement and reassurance. "Go have fun."

"Okay, thanks, you guys." Hollyn smiles softly, her heart fluttering when Cole intertwined their hands and started tugging her along as he turned away. She waves at her friends before turning her attention to her boyfriend. "Where are we going?" She questioned, giggling.

"Surprise." Cole replies, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Now, hear me out," He says after seeing her pout. "I know you don't like surprises, but I promise this one will be worth it. Please, can you just trust me?"

Hollyn bites her lip and sighs, her eyes twinkling as she looks up at him. "Of course I trust you. Okay, let's do this. Lead the way, Mr. Mysterious." She grinned, giggling as she walked with him to his car. 

He reassured her they would come back so she could get his car later. She drove with him, excitement bubbling in her chest. The car ride was filled with playful banter and soft laughter, music playing softly in the background as they drove through familiar streets. Hollyn felt the warmth of his hand holding hers, a constant reminder of the newness of their relationship and the comfort that came with it. She was curious as to where he was taking her, but she was also excited to find out. 

A/N ugh i love cole & hollyn so much you guys