Crashing and Burning

BIRTHDAY BOY

Ally took a deep breath as she parked her car at her parents´ place. She’d been ignoring Marvin’s calls all week, and it had started to take a toll on her.

She had decided to take a break and head back home to reconnect with her family. That would help her calm down and stay focused.

She spent the day digging at her mum’s delicious casserole and catching up with her brother and sisters. Her home was as noisy and familiar as ever. It eased her soul.

The afternoon rolled by quickly and the sun started going down.

-Are you going out tonight, baby? - Her mother asked, placing a kiss on her cheek

-Yeah, It’s Harry’s birthday, and he’s throwing a party at his place, so, that’s the plan.

-Okay hun… just don’t drink and drive.

-No Ma, don’t worry, I’m taking a cab.

A couple of hours later, she was stepping out of the taxi, holding a case of beer in one hand and a bottle of vodka in the other.

Loud music rang all the way to the street and let her know the party was in full blast. She approached the door and gave it a little push, it swung open, and she let herself in. People danced and laughed all over the place.

It was crowded, noisy and warm. Harry stood a few feet away chatting eagerly with some guy. He spotted her and smiled, excusing himself briefly and making his way to her.

-Hey birthday boy! – Ally chanted, offering him the vodka bottle and giving him a big hug - Have a good one, darling.

-Hi gorgeous, so glad you could make it! Come here, let’s crack this bad boy open- He said, signaling the bottle.

He led her to the kitchen, grabbing a glass from the counter and pouring himself a drink. Ally opened a beer bottle, putting the leftover ones away in the fridge.

-So, what have you been up to? – He casually asked, taking a sip- I’ve missed you girl.

-Not much really… work, work and more work. You know the drill.

-Yeah, I can tell, but you’ve been away for a while sweetheart. I was starting to think you weren’t coming back.

-Oh, you can’t get rid of me that easily, you i***t - Ally laughed, slapping his chest lightly.

He caught her hand and kissed it softly. -I really, really missed you Ally- He uttered looking at her intently.

Ally gulped, staring at the floor – Harry… I- she stammered.

-Oh… I know girl, trust me… I do- He said sadly - Just... hear me out, okay?

He took a swig of his drink, encouraging himself.

-Listen, Ally… I just want to say that if you give me a chance, I could go steady with you. You’ve made me feel things I haven’t felt before, and I know we said we’d just be friends, but I’m willing to try and be with you if you'd take me.

-Oh… No Harry, why? Why would you say that? - Ally backed all the way until she bumped into a wall

-I´m sorry. I think I just needed you to know how I feel

Ally stood silent looking at him, not knowing what to say or what to do. She took a sip from her beer, looking for inspiration.

-Wow… this is- Ally started

-Unexpected, I know sweetheart… I do- Harry sighed

He walked up to her and kissed her forehead, breathing in her scent

-Harry… I’m really sorry. I can´t…

-It’s okay sweetheart - he whispered - just… please tell me something… Is it because the seat is taken?

Ally closed her eyes. An image forming clearly in her head. She smiled painfully.

-I think it is.