Expectations

Chapter 33

By the next morning, photos of Alex and Bri have spread like wildfire all over social media and the tabloids. They're being called the new 'it' couple, and of course, why wouldn't the world's biggest popstar and supermodel be titled anything less?

The bus rolls into the next city early and I'm more than eager to get up and get off, out of close corridors. I'm thankful today is Bob's birthday, giving me an excuse to leave. He invited me and some of the sound techs he works with out to breakfast. Being the simple man he is, that's all he wanted for his birthday and I'm happy to oblige.

Walking into the diner, Bob beams at me, instantly pulling me in for a hug. It's in this moment I feel a bit guilty for not seeing him as often as I thought I would. I've known the man for most of my life, him being one of my dad's closest friends, and I honestly thought I would be hanging out with him for most of the tour, thinking Alex wouldn't want anything to do with me. I still see him every night working at the sound booth, but I always thought I'd be more dependent on him.

Sitting at the table, I quickly shoot Shay a text asking if she can make sure Alex gets up on time, but knowing her she'll sleep through my text and Alex will get up before her anyway. I know it's childish and pathetic, but I can't face him yet. I know I'll have to eventually... just not now.

Surprisingly, my phone buzzes shortly after I send my text, Shay's contact popping up.

From Shay: He's already up. He came and woke me up to ask where you are.

I instantly panic, hoping she didn't tell him where I am. I don't want to see him. Not yet. I just want another hour to collect myself and put on my big girl pants before I have to see him.

To Shay: You didn't tell him, did you?

From Shay: No. But I do think I overheard Chris say something about a diner...

Just like sirens sounding that a tornados coming, the bell attached to the diner door rings out and in walks Alex with Chris and Milo trailing behind. Quite honestly, my initial instinct is to get up and run, but I know I can't do that. I just sit in my seat frozen.

Alex's penetrating eyes find mine, immediately softening as he walks up to me, seemingly ignoring everyone and everything else around him.

He's wearing a fitted gray t-shirt that hugs his chest and arms nicely, paired with black jeans and white sneakers. I never thought such a simple outfit could look so good on someone, but here he is proving me wrong. Again.

I mentally smack myself for having these thoughts right now. You can't dig yourself into a deeper hole, Joslyn. He doesn't want you, remember? I remind myself.

"Hey," Alex says softly, taking the conveniently open chair next to mine.

"Hey," I manage to choke out.