“If you need me, I’ll be in this bush.” James called as Dave walked down a dim lit garden path. James watched him walk up to the front door and clambered into the spiky bush just outside of a dark window. He watched as Dave knocked loudly on the front door of a snow white house. After about two minutes the door opened to reveal a young girl of about seven.

“Is your big sister in?” James heard Dave ask. Slick! James thought to himself. A tip he had given Dave was to always ask for the big sister when he’s around Leigh, the little sister. Sinead loved that. She was proud of being a big sister, just like he was proud of being a big brother.

James continued to watch as Leigh stepped back into the house and Dave spun around to stick his thumbs up in James’ direction. James would normally have grinned back, but at that moment his legs went numb and his stomach started to flutter and feel sick. He looked back at the door to where a girl of about seventeen had just appeared. She was wearing a pair of male boxers with a made T-shirt. Her white blonde hair was tied into the shortest pigtails, the longest she could fit, and her smile glowed as she recognised Dave. It was funny to see them together, they looked more like family then friends. James felt a hot heat travelling from his heart to his face. He didn’t want to watch what would happen next, he knew how it would end up. No one knew Sinead better than him, Dave had the advantage of calling James his best friend.

“I was just coming back from band practice with James when I remembered you lived here.” Dave said in his broad welsh accent.

“Oh?” Sinead said sounding bored already. James had expected this.

“Ok, I’m lying.” Dave smiled. “You’re too pretty to lie to.” James grinned at Dave’s stupid mistake. Wait, he should be trying to think of how he could help this mistake. Sinead wasn’t vein, and hated boys telling her things like that. James watched Sinead blush and then look a little uncomfortable.

“I was at home thinking of what I wanted most in the world. Then I wrote a song about it, and well I couldn’t find a lot of things that rhyme with Sinead.” Dave said. James grinned quickly, that was the line he was sure would make Sinead grin. He was correct. Sinead flashed her perfect smile and blushed a sweet pink.

“There’s always lemonade.” She replied.

“Oh yeah!” Dave exclaimed. “Well what do you think about me and you going out to drink some lemonade?”

“I’m more into vodka and lemonade myself.” Sinead smiled.

“Well I’m into anything you’d like, so would you like to go out with me sometime?”

“Yeah that would be cool.” Sinead replied twirling a strand of her fringe in her tiny fingers. James felt a painful twinge in his stomach at this sign of her flirting.

James had been planning since he was seven how to ask Sinead out. She was the girl who lived across the road from him, and one of his best friends. Now as he walked back towards his house with Dave rambling on he realised he had just gave his best friend a chance to be with the girl he loved.

“Did you see those boxers?” Dave asked loudly as they entered James’ house. James nodded. “Damn you have to help me get inside of those!” James felt a sudden urge to hit Dave as he pictured him and Sinead together.

James walked out of his house holding an acoustic guitar for his brother. He looked across the street to Sinead’s house as he usually did. He immediately wished he hadn’t. Sinead and Dave were stood in the garden gazing lovingly into each others eyes. In the past six weeks that James had been helping Dave rock Sinead’s world, James had realised something important. He didn’t just have a little crush on Sinead like he had first thought. He was obsessed with her, infatuated with her, devoted and deeply in love. He stood for a few minutes watching as her blonde hair glittered in the sun light until her eyes glanced his way and she started to wave. He gave a quick nod then continued to carry the guitar towards his mothers car. He placed it inside as his little brother came running out excitedly.

“Jim look what I found!” He exclaimed running down the drive towards the street. James looked at his brothers hands and noticed a small book with his own handwriting all over it.

“Where did you get that?” James shouted panicking slightly. He suddenly realised the direction his brother was heading and almost brought up his breakfast.

“Hey Sinead look what I wrote for you.” His little brother said smiling sweetly. Sinead smiled back down at the miniature James and took the note book off him. She flipped it open to the first page and began to read.

“No!” James shouted knocking Sinead to the ground as he snatched the book from her and snapped it shut.

“Jesus James!” Sinead exclaimed as Dave helped her back up. “What’s your problem?”

“This is kinda private.” James said quietly.

“Yeah, I guessed that it was yours. Only you could write that soppy stuff.” Sinead said poking him playfully.

“What type of soppy stuff?” Dave asked intrigued.

“I’ve seen everything, I’ve dreamt it all… last night we did it in a waterfall.” Sinead giggled.

“Wow James, they would make good lyrics.” Dave said trying to suppress his laughter.

“Great.” James said blushing. He walked away from the two of them thinking of ways to hurt his brother without getting in trouble.

Dave’s hand reached out towards Sinead as they both rocked gently on the swings. Her hands were warm and comforting, he smiled to himself at what a catch he had.

“I don’t understand why we click so much.” Sinead stated gazing into the darkness that surrounded the rest of the park.

“Maybe we were just made for each other.” Dave said looking into Sinead’s cornflower blue eyes. Her gaze was still following the darkness and Dave was drawn into her flawless face. He knew why they clicked so much. It was James. If James hadn’t been so clever and brilliant he wouldn’t be here feeding soppy lines that James had gave him into her.

“Yeah, I suppose that’s a little cliché though.” Sinead said smiling and showing off her white teeth. She looked at Dave and noticed him staring at her. She stuck her tongue out revealing a cute stud that made Dave think of blow jobs. But apparently that’s wasn’t the right approach to take with a girl like Sinead, or so James insisted.

“I love that word.” Dave said remembering James’ list of Sinead’s favourite words.

“Me too!” Sinead exclaimed, squeezing on Dave’s hand. Dave smiled to himself and looked up at the night sky. He was thinking about what it would be like to have sex on a swing when a sudden thought came to him.

“Don’t you think we should try and get James a girlfriend.” Dave asked excitedly.

“Why?” Sinead asked. Dave almost replied truthfully… ‘He helped me get you.’

“He seems a little lonely.” He said instead.

“Yeah I’ve noticed that. I just presumed it was because his best friend got a new girlfriend.” Sinead said smirking. Dave nodded in agreement. That’s what he’d figured the reason was so obviously it was his job to fix James up with someone just as good as Sinead.

“So who do you think will ‘click’ with him?” Dave asked standing up and kicking an empty crisp packet around.

“I know this girl… called Aeva. She’s great and I know she has a huge crush on James.” Sinead insisted standing up also and wrapping her arms around Dave’s waist.

“Hmm… this plan seems like its coming together nicely. Now we need a way of getting them in the same place at the same time.” Dave said thinking hard.

“Why don’t we just invite them out on a double date?” Sinead suggested.

“Brilliant! Not only are you good looking, you’re smart too!” Dave exclaimed reaching into his pocket and pulling his phone out. “You give her a quick ring now and see if she wants to go out tomorrow night.”

“Ok.” Sinead replied pulling her own mobile out and dialling Aeva’s number.

When they were both finished Dave looked up at Sinead and grinned. Hopefully if tomorrow went as well as it could do, he wouldn’t be going to bed alone. He smiled to himself at his cheeky thought then stopped as his mobile started vibrating in his pocket. Both of them looked at the phone as he pulled it out and answered it.

“Hello?” He said into his phone. He glanced at Sinead with a nervous look then turned his back on her and began to stroll off. Sinead sat back down on the swing and followed him with her eyes, wondering who he was talking to.

James looked in his mirror and ran his hand through his hair nervously. He didn’t want to go on a date with someone other than Sinead, however Sinead would still be there. He smiled at the mirror checking his reflection to make sure his teeth looked ok. They were fine, but he didn’t feel fine. He stepped away from the mirror and checked his watch. He would be leaving in five minutes to meet Sinead and Aeva. They were both at Sinead’s house and James had tried to spot them out of his window… it was a no hope.

James left his house quietly, walking as slow as he could. He considered going straight past Sinead’s house but curiosity got the better of him and he started up her path. It would be weird to see what type of girl Sinead would pick for him, however if she knew him as well as he knew her, Aeva would be perfect. He knocked on the door gently half hoping that no one would hear it and he could just leave. Nether the less the door swung open and Sinead appeared grinning stupidly. James couldn’t help but smile back at her, if she was happy then who was he to ruin it.

“This JB is my good friend Aeva.” Sinead said moving over slightly and dragging another girl into view. James glanced nervously at her then looked back again quickly. He stared in amazement at the girl Sinead had picked. She had straight dark brown hair that flipped out at the ends and made James want to run his fingers through them, and a fringe that cut across her forehead from right to left. Her hazel eyes were staring back at him in a day dreaming look.

“Hi.” James said with his mouth agape.

“Hey.” She replied shyly. Sinead rolled her eyes and pushed Aeva out of the door. She knew Aeva would stop being shy as soon as they started talking properly. The three of them walked down the street towards where Dave would be waiting for them at the bowling ally.

“Couldn’t you have picked somewhere more classy?” Aeva asked looking down at her fitted jeans and t-shirt. “I love getting dressed up.”

“But bowling is fun!” Sinead exclaimed lacing her fingers through Dave’s.

“You’re only saying that because you’re winning.” James said as Aeva picked up a pink ball and tried to aim it properly. James smiled at her attempt. The ball rolled down the aisle for a couple of seconds then went straight into the guttering. Dave and Sinead started laughing and James stood up to help Aeva. He grabbed a heavier ball and passed it to Aeva.

“Try this one.” He said as she put her fingers into the holes.

“You’re mad!” Aeva exclaimed almost dropping the ball. “It’s way too heavy!”

“I’ll help you.” James said placing one of his hands on her waist and the other one around her wrist.

“See, that’s why bowling is a perfect date.” Sinead said grinning as Dave kissed her. James watched them out of the corner of his eye and with a frustrated feeling helped Aeva guide the ball down the aisle to get all the pins. James started laughing as Aeva started doing a celebration dance. Dave and Sinead both started watching with confused looks on their faces. It wasn’t everyday you randomly saw someone dancing in a bowling ally.

Dave was just about to take his go when his mobile started ringing. He pulled it out of his pocket and answered it. Sinead sat down next to Aeva and watched as Dave walked off slowly muttering into his phone. He came back about five minutes later.

“I’m really sorry but I have to go.” Dave said kissing Sinead on the cheek.

“Why?” James asked surprised that anyone would leave Sinead.

“I just have to. I’ll ring you tomorrow.” Dave said as he walked off quickly.

“Hey Sinead.” James said as he shut his note book and shoved it into his back pack. Sinead smiled and sat down on the step to his house next to him.

“Hey JB.” She replied casually.

“Where’s Dave today?” James asked clenching his fist, trying to contain his frustration.

“Shopping with his mum apparently.” Sinead replied looking sad.

“Oh he always goes shopping with his mum.” James lied. He couldn’t stand to see Sinead hurt.

“Oh right.” She said smiling again. “So when are you next seeing Aeva?”

“Tonight actually.” James replied smiling himself.

“What do you think of her?” Sinead asked.

“She’s amazing.” James replied simply.

“Good. I knew you’d like her, she’s that type of girl.” Sinead said leaning her head on James’ shoulder.

James looked at her sideways and was tempted to put his arm around her. He probably would have done if Dave hadn’t walked towards them both.

“What’s going on here then?” Dave said loudly, grinning at them both.

“Dave!” Sinead exclaimed jumping up and wrapping her arms around his neck. Their lips fell together in a passionate kiss that James tried not to watch. He glanced at them once and felt that numb feeling creep into his body, the same numb feeling he felt when he perched in a bush watching them meet.

“I finished shopping early and thought I’d come to see my favourite girl.” Dave said sitting down next to James and letting Sinead sit on his knee. Sinead grinned broadly at the statement, whereas James found it suspicious.

“Hey Dave, James is seeing Aeva later.” Sinead said with a cheesy grin on her face. Dave returned it with his own cheesy grin. James tried to keep his face straight, however the grins were infectious and a big one crept up his face and formed on his lips. He might have feelings for Sinead that made him crazy, but Aeva was definitely worth his time.

“You know what people do on dates at night time.” Dave said punching James playfully on the arm.

“No I don’t Dave, why don’t you tell me what you and Sinead get up to.” James replied not noticing he was asking for more pain.

“Well lets just be truthful… she’s just like a roller coaster, up and down all night.” Dave grinned.

“Dave!” Sinead said blushing. James smiled faintly, trying not to tear Dave’s smiling face apart. That stuff was personal, Dave had no right to go flashing it about. Especially to him.

“Well I have to start getting ready for my date.” James said standing up and thinking of Aeva. He couldn’t help but let a playful smile form on his lips when he thought of her. She was so cute and funny, she made him laugh seventy percent of the time they were together, and the other thirty was spent wishing she was in his bed.

James sat down on a bench waiting for Aeva. There was nothing else for him to do, he was five minutes early and knowing females, Aeva was going to be late anyway. He looked over at the restaurant they were going to be eating at and noticed someone familiar. There was only two people he knew with white blonde hair. Dave and Sinead, and for some reason he doubted Sinead would have grown a masculine body. He stood up to get a better view of Dave and realised he was with a girl. James knew immediately it wasn’t Sinead, because Sinead had blonde hair not black. The girl turned round to look at the car they had just got out of and smiled at the driver. She was fairly tall and had a stripy t-shirt on with some jeans and converse. James was about to storm over and demand an answer when he heard his name being called.

“James?” He spun round to see a gorgeous looking Aeva walking towards him. All thoughts of a cheating Dave were erased from his memory. She looked so perfect that his heart wanted to melt out of his chest and make its way over to her.

“Aeva… wow!” James exclaimed walking over to her. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her into a big hug.

“James you’re crushing me slightly.” Aeva said trying to push James away to keep herself alive.

“Sorry.” James said pulling away and blushing. “You look really pretty tonight.”

“Thanks. You look pretty hot yourself, but right now I’m hungry so lets go eat.” Aeva said grabbing James’ hand and pulling him across the street. Aeva made them practically run across the street to get to the doors of the restaurant, which made James trip and Aeva laugh.

When they were finally seated James hid his face behind a large menu as to avoid the fact that he didn’t know what to talk about. He was scanning the list quickly and trying to decide what to eat when he heard a familiar voice… he spun round quickly and watched as a tall dark haired girl disappeared around a corner. It wasn’t her he had heard talking, it was a male voice. He turned back around and tried forgetting the nagging feeling he was getting.

“I think I’ll have the lobster thermidor.” Aeva said not noticing James’ sudden movement.

“Umm, ok.” James said. He changed his mind about getting a burger with chips. The lobster was the dearest thing on the menu, he wouldn’t even be able to afford food for himself.

“I’m only joking James lighten up a little.” Aeva said laughing at his disgruntled face.

“Thank god! I was considering getting a free side salad.” James said breaking out into a smile.

“So what are you getting now I’m gonna be a cheap date?” Aeva asked putting her menu down.

“Burger… chips… coke… “ James said narrowing his eyes to concentrate on the menu. Aeva laughed at him and picked hers back up.

“I think I’ll just have the same.” Aeva decided finally. They both put their menus down and waited for a waitress to come over.

***

“Final..leh… yuh… comed!” Was the first thing a very pissed Chris said as James arrived at Chris’ house. Aeva looked from Chris to James as if she was dying to laugh. James just grinned and pushed his way through into what turned out to be a massive house party.

“A couple of friends he said.” James stated pouring himself and Aeva drinks.

“A couple of friends… and their friends… and their friends, friends.” Aeva said laughing, as she accepted her drink. The music that had been pumping into their ears at a reasonable volume was suddenly turned up and everyone made their way to something that James guessed was the nominated dance floor. He looked awkwardly at Aeva, wondering if she wanted to dance. She probably did. Girl’s liked to dance. He was about to get the courage to ask her when he was saved by the drunken Chris and his girlfriend.

“Try to stay stood up!” His girlfriend shouted, while trying not laugh. She looked up at James and Aeva and looked as though she was about to speak… until Chris collapsed on the floor and dragged her down with him. Her curly brown hair fell about her face as she laughed and tried to get up. James continued to stare with a smirk on his face, while Aeva went to help her up.

“You two ok?” Aeva asked as James decided to help Chris up.

“Yeah… we just drunk.” Chris said giggling.

“No he’s just drunk.” His girlfriend said laughing. “I’m tipsy.”

“Well I’m Aeva nice to meet you tipsy.” Aeva said smiling, which caused Chris’ girlfriend to breakout in a fit of giggles.

“Funny! I’m Megan!” She said trying to stop herself from laughing.

“So how did the date go?” Sinead asked Aeva as they walked towards Chris’ house. Last night James had made sure Aeva was home safely before going back to Chris’ house to help with the tidying, which had probably turned into more partying.

“It was really good.” Aeva smiled reminiscing.

“Did you kiss?” Sinead asked giggling.

“No.” Aeva said quietly.

“Why the hell not?” Sinead asked shocked.

“Circumstances… I will kiss that guy though! Even if you have to help me with a re-enactment of the little mermaid, and stand behind us singing ‘kiss de girl’!” Aeva said taking on the pose of a mermaid.

“Oh nice, you get to be a pretty little red head… while I’m a crab?” Sinead replied. Both girl’s looked at each other then burst out laughing as they turned a corner onto Chris’ house. They both stopped in their tracks, their jaws dropping to their feet.

“What happened?” Aeva asked as she finally recovered from shock.

“I don’t know, but I’d love to hear the excuse for this!” Sinead exclaimed starting down the road again. They walked through what looked world war III. There was toilet roll spread across the entire street in thick splodges that the rain must have caused. Over the road from Chris’ house was a small house owned by a man about the same age as Chris… Chris didn’t like him that much and it was kind of apparent by the fact the guys house did not have an inch free from eggs, tomatoes and toilet paper. Sinead and Aeva continued to walk down the street, watching their own steps carefully as to not get soggy toilet paper on them. They turned into Chris’ front garden which was free from any toilet paper, eggs and tomatoes. However you could tell this was the house the part and came from, plastic cups were exploding from the large bin and a trail of them was leaving the house.

They arrived at the door and instead of knocking, they found the door already open so invited themselves in. Inside there was tissue everywhere and two people appeared to have passed out on the stairs. Sinead and Aeva exchanged giddy glances as they continued into the kitchen. The kitchen had crisp covering the floor and every time they took a step all you could hear was a crunching noise, a noise that made Aeva almost wet herself laughing… which made Sinead laugh too… which woke up a very hung over Steve.

“Ow!” He exclaimed as he stood up and raised his hand to comfort his head.

“Did someone drink a little too much?” Sinead asked Steve, smiling.

“No… I just bumped my head.” Steve said looking mischievous. “So who’s your friend?”

“This is Aeva… James’ new… how would I describe it?”

“Piece of meat?” Steve asked looking serious with another mischievous look.

“I’m not quite ready to be cooked yet.” Aeva replied smiling. “Nice to meet you though.”

“Yeah you too… have either of you seen Bex?” Steve asked looking around him as though she would just appear.

“Nope… but if we do I’ll tell her where you are.” Sinead replied as she started walking out of the kitchen. Aeva followed her but had to stop as she started laughing at the crunching again. They walked round the stairs into the living room where there was a couple more people crashed out on the floor.

“We should turn the music back on… really loud!” Aeva whispered as best she could.

“Yeah and then they all die from heart attacks and we get done for murder.” Sinead giggled walking over a body that appeared dead. They both came up to a girl on the floor who was snoring loudly.

“Wow… I didn’t think girls could snore.” Aeva said giggling.

“Alcohol… brings out the demons in us all.” Sinead replied. “This is Bex by the way.”

“Did someone say my name?” The girl on the floor bolted up making Aeva and Sinead jump, scream and step back onto another random.

“Bex!” Sinead exclaimed feeling her heart pumping in her throat.

“Sorry.” Bex smiled standing up and wiping her clothes down…her normal stripy t-shirt, jeans and her loveable black converse.

“It’s ok, you better go in the kitchen , I have a feeling Steve is looking for you.” Sinead said back tracking her steps after a glance in the back room. Her and Aeva made their way up the stairs being extra careful not to step on anyone.

When they arrived upstairs they found their way into the first bedroom, which was hard seen as there was a creamy white substance on the door handle that made both the girls cringe. Sinead was the first in and she stopped halfway towards the bed to stare in half horror half amusement.

“What the?” Aeva said as she started laughing again. They were staring at the bed where Chris and Danny were wrapped up closely.

“This party must have got way to weird!” Sinead exclaimed.

“Doesn’t Chris have a girlfriend?” Aeva asked remembering Megan.

“Yeah so does Danny…” Sinead’s sentence trailed off as they heard movement coming from under the bed.

“What was that?” Aeva asked nervously.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if they had some wild animals.” Sinead said getting on to her hands and knees. She crawled towards the bed and lifted up the sheets to see Megan and Julie lying in the exact same positions as their boyfriends above them. Sinead tried poking Julie, who just grunted and continued to sleep.

“We should take pictures of this… I would pay money for this view.” Aeva said trying to suppress her giggles.

“Aeva you don’t need to pay… you’re watching it.”

“Yeah I knew that.” Aeva said blushing as she walked closer to the boys on the bed.

“Poke them and see if they are still alive.” Sinead said grabbing a hanger of the floor. She hooked it around Julie’s jeans and tried pulling her out from underneath the bed. She was just managing to pull her out when a scared looking Chris jumped out of the bed along with Danny. They both looked at each other with disgust then ran from the room. Sinead and Aeva started laughing loudly, which woke Julie and Megan up.

“Julie why are we under a bed?” Megan said trying to sit up and realising the bed was too low.

“Julie, Megan this is Aeva.” Sinead said as the other two girls finally got out form under the bed.

“Hi there…” Julie said straightening her skirt out. She flicked her shoulder length hair back as she put her hand out for Aeva to shake. Aeva took it and shook wondering where the hand may have been in the drunken state they were all in last night.

“Nice to meet you.” Aeva smiled.

“Yeah you too, you’ll have to come out with me and Megs sometimes… we like to go shopping. Sinead you’ve never been with us before have you? Bex did once and decided to never do it again, apparently I never stop talking. I don’t know what they’re on about.” Julie finished talking and took a deep breath that was definitely need, and before she could start talking again Megan cut in.

“Do I know you?” She asked Aeva.

“We met last night, you and Chris were a little drunk.” Aeva said winking.

“Oh yeah you were with James, right?”

“Uh huh.” Aeva replied. “You don’t happen to know where he is do you?”

“Last time I saw him he was in the spare room arguing with Dave.” Megan replied walking towards the door.

“Dave’s here?” Sinead asked surprised and excited.

“He might not be anymore.” Megan replied walking out. Sinead and Aeva followed her and made their way to the spare room. When they walked in they were relieved not to see the boys lying in a suspicious position. Instead they were both sat up talking.

“Hey babe.” Sinead said walking over to Dave and giving him a hug.

“Sinead? What are you doing here?” He asked surprised.

“I came to help Aeva find James.” Sinead smiled. Aeva sat down next to James and smiled at him.

“How does the rest of the house look?” James asked grinning.

“Like a bomb hit it.” Aeva replied.

“Yeah that makes sense. All I remember is finding Chris’ toilet paper and throwing it everywhere.” James laughed.

“Oh so you’re the one that destroyed the street.” Sinead said laughing.

“The street?” James asked confused. He stood up and walked to the window… his jaw dropped and he started laughing uncontrollably.

“What’s so funny?” Dave asked following him and repeating his actions. “Look at Johns house.”

“Oh my god he is going to be so mad when he notices.” James exclaimed. “Wait look!”

Both the guys go closer to the window as Sinead and Aeva jumped up and went to see. A tall guy came out of the house with a look of devastation on his face. He looked around at his messy house and then looked straight at Chris’ house with an angry look.

“We better go find Chris.” James said as he stopped laughing.

“I think I’m going to leave now, there is no way I’m cleaning up a house I had nothing to do with.” Sinead said starting to walk to the door.

“I’ll go with you.” Dave said grabbing her hand and smiling.

“Dave don’t forget what we talked about!” James called after him.

“What’s he on about?” Sinead asked. “I heard you two had an argument last night.”

“Sinead I think we need to talk.” Dave said biting his lower lip.

Dave sat himself down on the park bench and patted the space next to him, indicating Sinead to sit with him. Sinead sat next to him, not sure what was going on. Dave started biting his lip again and considered backing out of what he promised James he would confess.

“So what is this all about Dave?” Sinead asked. Dave could tell that she knew something was up.

“There’s something I think you should know.” Dave said turning round to look at Sinead. Her blonde hair was spiking up on top and randomly falling about her pale face. Her blue eyes glittered with unwanted tears, he felt so guilty.

“Am I going to cry?” Sinead asked blinking hard.

“Hopefully not.” Dave replied grabbing her hand, Sinead pulled away. A bad sign. Dave had a quick think as to how this would start but luckily he was saved from it all.

“Dave babe, is that you?” Maybe not so lucky, he looked up to see a tall girl with jet black hair and red streaks in the fringe area walking towards him.

“Abi? What are you doing here?” Dave said standing up suddenly and trying to block her view of Sinead.

“I’m just popping to the shop.” Abi said smiling. “Fancy a little stroll in the woods?”

“I’m kinda busy right now Abs.” Dave said glancing nervously behind him to where Sinead was sat watching him.

“Girlfriend huh?” Abi asked looking at Sinead too.

“Maybe.” Dave admitted scratching the back of his head.

“Well I told you I was only up for some sex. No need to let me spoil a failing relationship.” Abi said smiling and walking off. Dave watched her until she was completely gone before turning around and going back to Sinead.

“So what is it you need to tell me Dave?” Sinead asked looking uncomfortable.

“I don’t know how to say this.” Dave began, he was waiting for another interruption.

“Hurry up, I haven’t got forever.” Sinead complained.

“Ok, I don’t really see what I’m going to tell you something you should be bothered about. But I have to tell you, it’s not fair. You probably will be bothered. But I want you to know… I love you.”

“Seriously Dave, just tell me.” Sinead looked restless and it made Dave regret ever bringing this subject up.

“You see that girl that just came by?” Dave asked.

“Yeah.”

“I slept with her last night.” Dave said the words quietly but Sinead still heard them loud and clear. She took a deep breath and held back the stinging tears.

“Anything else you want to say?” She asked .

“Yeah. It was a stupid mistake and it meant nothing!” Dave said grabbing Sinead’s hands.

“So all the usual crap then?” Sinead replied smiling faintly.

“No, because people don’t get forgiven with the usual crap! I seriously regret what happened, look at you! You’re the funniest, prettiest, cleverest girl I know! I love you so much!” Dave was practically on his knees now.

“Stop wasting my time Dave. You cheat once, you’ll cheat again.” Sinead shouted. She stood up and left him sat alone on the bench.

“I swear I’d never cheat again!” He shouted after her.

James opened his fridge and looked amongst the food for something tasty to eat. He noticed some left over pasta and decided he was no longer hungry. As he shut the fridge door he heard a knocking at his front door.

“I’ll get it!” He called, although no one was rushing to the door anyway. He opened it to reveal a wet and cold looking Sinead.

“James can we talk?” Sinead asked crossing her arms over her shivering body. The rain was falling around her heavily, James pulled her inside quickly and wrapped his arms around her.

“What’s wrong?” He asked pushing her up the stairs towards his bedroom.

“Dave.” Sinead replied. James had expected something to have happened, or maybe it was hoped.

“What’s happened?” James asked pushing her down on the bed and sitting next to her.

“He admitted he cheated on me.” She said quietly while wiping a tear that was falling down her face.

James tried to speak but nothing would come out. He knew about Dave, he was the one who told Dave to tell Sinead. However he didn’t want to comfort her and tell her Dave was a loser. He wanted to comfort her and tell her the truth about Dave. Dave was a fake, he pretended to have so much in common with Sinead. He, James was the one who should be allowed to hold her, to kiss her, to love her. This was his chance, his chance to let her know… he was the one.

“Sinead…”

“You know James, honesty is so rare.” Sinead said looking up at him.

“What?” James asked.

“I value Dave’s integrity, James.” Sinead said wiping her smudged make-up away.

“Yeah I understand all that, but Sinead he cheated on you!” James said starting to feel a little angry.

“I know but, you should have seen him. He was crying and said he cared about me, loved me.” Sinead looked dreamy as she said the last words.

“Sinead, he’s not the only guy who is ever going to love.” James stated.

“Precisely. I don’t have to commit myself fully to him. It’s love, but love fades eventually. One day I’ll find Mr. Right. Until then I’ll settle for Dave.” Sinead said now smiling.

“True love doesn’t fade.” James answered.

“But Dave never said I was his one true love. James stop being so negative, you’ve really helped me see that I should just forgive Dave.”

“How have I done that?” James asked standing up.

“Don’t be silly, you know how. Thank you so much, you really are my best friend.” Sinead hugged James tight and kissed his cheek, then left. James sat back on his bed and touched the place where her kiss had been.

“But…I’m the one.” James whispered.

Dave turned his depressing music up louder as he heard the sound of someone knocking on his door. He tried to shut out the sounds of anything except the music. That way he wouldn’t keep hearing Sinead’s angry voice. All he could hear repeating itself was her shouting his name over and over again. He shut his eyes then snapped them open quickly. No, she couldn’t be… she wouldn’t be? He ran to his door quickly and pulled it open.

“Sinead?”

“Finally I’ve been standing here for ages!” Sinead exclaimed walking past him into his bedroom.

“Sorry.” Dave replied looking a little nervous.

“It’s not healthy to stay locked up in your room.” Sinead said smiling.

“Sinead, why are you here?” Dave asked sitting on his bed. Sinead sat next to him. They were both silent for a couple of minutes… then Sinead took pity on him.

“So I could give you this.” Sinead said. She placed her hand under his chin and directed his face towards her. Their lips locked in a short kiss that made both of them smile.

“What was that for?” Dave asked.

“To say I forgive you.” Sinead answered.

***

James walked down the road to Aeva’s house thinking over what had just happened with Sinead. How could she think like that? Why did she like Dave so much? He definitely didn’t deserve someone like her. Bu then again what made him think the he deserved her?

He arrived outside of Aeva’s house and looked up to her bedroom window. He could see the silhouette of her dancing around. He laughed to himself then opened her garden gate. He stepped inside and slowly started walking further and further towards her front door. He rang the doorbell and waited for her to answer. He heard the sound of faint music being switched off then the loud noise of someone running down the stairs and putting a key in the lock. Aeva opened the door and grinned at James.

“Hi.” She said sound breathless. James stepped back to take in her appearance. He felt himself forgetting Sinead once more. Aeva was the only person that made him realise Sinead wasn’t the only person alive.

“Hey.” James said. Aeva moved to the side to let him in. He started walking past her but stopped in the door frame, up close to her. He looked into her eyes and felt something drawing him closer to her. Their lips touched for a split second then he moved back quickly knocking his head.

“Are you alright?” Aeva asked laughing.

“Yeah…I’m sorry, about the kis…kiss.” James replied blushing.

“Let me show you a real kiss.” Aeva said pulling him closer and kissing him passionately. When she pulled back James was stood there with a confused, shocked and happy look on his face.

“There’s times when a girl needs to choose which shoes will look good.” Julie said as she picked up a pair of pink fluffy boots.

“This is one of those times.” Megan said as they both turned round to Aeva.

“You want me to choose?” Aeva asked nervously.

“Just pick Aeva… it’s not that hard.” Sinead said holding a laugh in.

“But what if I pick the wrong answer.” Aeva complained.

“Then we’ll know whether you’re right for James or not.” Julie said narrowing her eyes, trying to look bossy.

“Ok, well I think they’re disgusting and if you like them… go buy them. Just don’t wear them with me around.” Aeva said giving the boots a dirty look.

“Well done Aeva!” Megan said clapping happily.

“You are right for James. Imagine his face if she wore them to see him.” Sinead giggled.

“I think he wouldn’t mind if she wore only them.” Julie laughed putting the boots back. Aeva blushed as everyone else laughed.

“So where are we going to go now?” Aeva asked as they walked out of the shoe shop.

“Well we said we’d meet Bex for a coffee… and by an accident a couple of the guys may have heard… so it’s actually turned into meeting them for a drink in Café Rouge.” Julie said smirking.

“Well I could do with a drink after that shopping trip.” Aeva grinned as they made their was out of the shopping centre.

When they arrived at Café Rouge, Megan took everyone’s bags off them and went with Chris to put them in his car. Sinead and Aeva went to get everyone drinks while the rest of them decided to go and sit with the boys. When they had got the drinks they went to where everyone was sitting and sat down, Aeva with James and Sinead with Dave.

They stayed in Café Rouge for the rest of the day, Sinead and Dave sharing private jokes laughing a lot. Julie and Danny talking about everything. Megan and Chris is having competitions to see who could drink the most. Steve and Bex glued to each others faces. James and Aeva talked a bit but Aeva couldn’t help but notice James’ tendency to glance over at Sinead.

***

James and Aeva watched Sinead go into her house before sitting down on his front step. James wrapped his arm around Aeva to keep her warm and she smiled at him. Maybe now he would finally stop glancing at Sinead and missing thing she was saying to him.

“So what are you doing tomorrow?” Aeva asked, James just smiled. “James were you listening to me?”

“Yeah of course I was.” James replied, his eyes glancing towards Sinead’s house.

“Are you in love with Sinead or something?” Aeva asked angrily.

“What?” James asked stunned. Aeva looked at him and realised that the question she just asked was a sensitive area with him.

“You are?” She almost whispered.

“No.” James said quickly, turning a deep red.

“Yeah whatever. When she’s around you watch her constantly, you always talk about her and you know everything about her!” Aeva exclaimed.

“We’re just good friends, ok?” James said standing up. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Wait!” Aeva said as he bounded into his house. She couldn’t believe that he was in love with Sinead. “But… I’m the one.”

The sound of tiny birds fluttering against James’ window woke him up. He looked at the birds with venom in his eyes and turned over. His double bed was half empty and he snuggled himself deeper into the centre where he was planning on getting some more sleep. However the birds had different ideas. After five minutes of considering how to kill the birds discretely, James turned onto his back and started to get up. He looked out of his window and was about to throw something out when he noticed Sinead and Aeva talking. He examined their body language closely and tried to see if they were talking about him. Aeva said something looking confused, Sinead started laughing, Aeva blushed then smiled too, Sinead patter Aeva’s shoulder then glanced up at James’ window… glanced up at… James dropped to the floor and tried crawling backwards away from the window. It wasn’t cool to be watching people.

“James why are you on the floor?” James looked up to see David stood with a tiny smirk playing across his face.

“I dropped something.” James lied as he stood back up.

“Oh well. I just thought I’d come and say hi. You looked lonely in your bedroom.” Dave replied vacantly as he picked up a guitar pick and started to play some air guitar.

“Well Aeva’s always welcome.” James thought out loud. “Wait… you can’t see into my room.”

“You can from Aeva’s attic.” Dave replied putting the pick down and moving on to the next object.

“You were watching me?” James asked stunned.

“Yeah, at one point I thought you were going to shoot those birds dude.” Dave laughed as he replaced the McDonalds toy and picked up a picture frame.

“Why?” James asked snatching the picture of Sinead and her sister off Dave.

“Don’t know. Don’t worry you’re not that fun to watch. I got bored, decided to come and wake you up, found you awake, started messing with your things -”

“Dave shut up!” James exclaimed.

“Jeez, someone is a little narky in the morning.” Dave stated.

“Yeah so get out while I get dressed.” James said pushing David out of his bed room door.

When the door was shut, James searched his room for clean clothes. When he had found a ‘thin lizzy’ t-shirt and some cream chords he shut the curtains in case anyone wanted to watch him get naked. When he was done he opened his door and made for downstairs, where he found Dave talking to his mum.

“No I never got round to reading that book Mrs. Bourne.” Dave said not noticing James appear.

“Oh David it’s lovely, the way the girl grows up in those conditions is so touching. I wish that I could fall in love the way she did.” James’ mum said smiling dreamily.

“Hopefully I’ll have some time next week to read it.” Dave said smiling sweetly. “I enjoyed the last one a lot.”

“Oh yes, the one about the girl who was abused as a child but fell in love with the doctor. That one actually made me cry.”

“I very nearly cried.” Dave said putting on a sincere look of depression.

“Speaking of next week…” James said walking into the room properly. Dave blushed as James shot him a goofy grin.

“What about it?” His mum asked taking on a colder tone with him.

“When is it you’re going?”

“Saturday night. I’ll be back the same time the following Saturday.”

“I think she’ll say yes if you just ask her.” Dave stated for the seventh time that day.

“But if she say’s no I’ll feel so rejected.” James replied. All day he had been thinking of how to ask Aeva if she wanted to stay at his house with him next week.

“So, you will get over it eventually.” Dave said getting angry. All day he had heard James going on about it.

“Well yeah, but I want her to!” James whined.

“James you have two options- one go and ask her right now, two shut up or I will kill you.” Dave said through gritted teeth.

“Alright, calm down.” James said standing up and inching closer to his mobile. He picked it up and got her number up on his screen. He stared at the number for a while and was just about to press the green button when Dave started laughing.

“What’s funny?” James asked looking up.

“I was just thinking about sheep.” Dave said snorting.

“That doesn’t surprise me, you’re welsh.” James smiled.

“No but imagine if a sheep was walking down the road and someone walked up to it and it said moo instead of baa!” Dave started cracking up again while James stared at him with a confused look.

“You scare me sometimes.” James muttered looking at his mobile again. He looked at the number one last time then cancelled it. What was the point in him calling her? She wouldn’t stay with him, and if she did he’d probably make a fool of himself. He wasn’t the best around girls he liked, especially Aeva. She had the sixth sense where she could tell what he was thinking, that’s how she found out about Sinead, and that’s how she found out that he had thoughts about her when he did certain things… alone.

***

Sunday morning arrived and James awoke with a grin on his face. It was two in the afternoon and no one was in his house. Everyone had left him. He yawned loudly and considered another hour of sleep, until his smile faded and a look of discomfort appeared. His hand disappeared under the covers and felt around underneath him. His look turned into one of disgust as he jumped out of his bed, the duvet falling off with him. He looked at his mattress where a large wet stain was situated. He stepped back in confusion, then crept closer. He knelt down next to his bed and leant over until his nose was inches away from the stain. His eyes moved from left to right before he took a large sniff and tried to guess what the substance could be. He moved back again and blushed.

He knew what the stain smelt of, but he didn’t want to admit it. That type of stain usually happened when he dreamt about something… pleasurable. But that hadn’t happened since he was fourteen! He thought back to last night, he hadn’t been able to sleep. He had been thinking about Aeva until he finally drifted off… then he started to dream about Aeva. He smiled at the thought of the dream, that was one he would pay money to come true.

The week started speeding by at a rate James didn’t like. Why was it that the best week of his life wanted to leave him so quick? The only part of it that was taking it’s time was the nights. He would stay up thinking about Aeva, imagining her with him. He hadn’t told Dave, but he had started to sit and day dream about her constantly. The day dreams were his favourite part of the day, he could make Aeva smile at him, kiss him, touch him, or be her normal random self. He knew that Aeva could be like that with him for real if he just plucked up the courage to call her, but it was harder than that. After thinking about someone for so long, actually being with them would be weird. For now he was content with his imaginary Aeva, the one that liked doing everything he wanted her to.

“Earth to James.” Chris said throwing a nut at James’ head.

“Thanks Chris.” James said picking the nut up and eating it.

“Yummy.” Megan said smiling. James looked around surprised to find his house full. Chris, Danny, Dave and Steve were there along with their girlfriends, Megan, Julie, Sinead and Bex. All of them were sat munching on nibbles or drinking from bottles.

“When did you all get here?” James said feeling confused.

“Ages ago.” Julie answered. “Actually I think I better get going now.”

“Yeah me too.” Sinead said standing up and pulling Dave with her. Dave winked at James before putting his arm round Sinead and following her out of the house.

“I’ll walk you home Julie.” Danny said standing up and following Julie.

“Wait! I’m staying at yours tonight Julie.” Megan exclaimed jumping up and following them.

“Well looks like the party’s over James. Seeya tomorrow.” Steve said pulling Bex with him.

James stared at where everyone had just been. They had left empty bottles and crumbs and packets everywhere. He smiled to himself as he thought of Aeva tidying it all up for him. The he frowned. How could he let her tidy it all up for him? It was his fault! He should be tidying up and making her laugh as he did it. However it was only a day dream, so she may as well.

He stood and started picking all of the rubbish up when he heard a knock at the door. He dropped all of the things immediately and made his way towards it excitedly. He imagine a fancy prostitute stood there all in leather wanting him. However when he opened the door it was not a prostitute… it was something better… like something out of a teen movie.

“Are you the whore I paid to come and screw me?” James said the first thing that came to his head. He blushed as the sound of laughter penetrated his ears. It was a laughter he liked, one that he enjoyed hearing.

“Hi to you to.” Aeva said grinning.

“Hello honey.” James said making her laugh more.

Aeva sat down amongst bottles and rubbish and looked up at a shy looking James. James shuffled himself closer to sit down next to her. Just before he reached the sofa Aeva jumped up excitedly.

“Look at what I got done today!” Aeva exclaimed pulling her top up to reveal a diamond studded bar through her belly button.

“Woah!” James gasped as his legs started feeling wobbly. He sat himself down before he collapsed, Aeva say next to him.

“Don’t you like it?” She asked sounding upset.

“No, I really like it! It’s so hot!” James exclaimed poking it gently.

“Good.” Aeva smiled.

“So what made you turn up at my house?” James asked trying to concentrate on the conversation.

“Dave told me you’d been planning on asking me to stay… but didn’t have the courage.” Aeva replied smirking. James blushed and decided he was going to make a point of getting Dave back. Now everything was going to turn awkward. He thought Aeva had turned up out of the blue to declare her love for him. That’s what he wanted! Someone that was perfect in his eyes to declare their love for him.

“So do you mind me staying?” Aeva asked removing a bottle from under her.

“No definitely not!” James said a little eagerly. Aeva smiled as James has one of his short day dreams about what they could do while she stayed. He stopped straight after it and remembered Aeva’s talent of reading his mind. ‘Think of your grandma.’ James thought to himself.

“James I’m sensing something wrong with you…” Aeva said putting her hand on his knee. “Is your grandma ill?”

“No!” James exclaimed as a hurricane of laughter took him over. He fell off the couch laughing and banged his knee… when he was done he looked up at a confused Aeva.

“Why was that funny?” Aeva asked.

“Well to be truthful, I was having thoughts about you. But I know you know what I’m thinking… so I tried thinking about my grandma.” James informed her before laughing again. Aeva laughed too and pushed him playfully.

“So what were the thoughts about me?” Aeva asked narrowing here eyes, James could tell she was trying to pick up thoughts about her. However he was wise to them and now his grandma was doing a crazy chicken dance inside his head.

“I’m afraid I can’t tell you that.” James said shaking his head.

“Aw come on James!” Aeva exclaimed moving herself closer to him and grabbing his hands.

James looked down to where her hands and engulfed his own. He smiled at them and looked up into Aeva’s face. She looked pretty tonight and he knew how he wanted it to end. He didn’t know why he felt that way about Aeva as he hadn’t had that many girlfriends and had definitely got passed first base. Now here he was with a stunning girl, feelings swimming around him and all he could think of doing was… her.

“James!” Aeva exclaimed giggling and letting go of his hands.

“Crap!” James said as he realised he had been thinking again. How the hell did she do it?

“That’s it James Bourne we have to get these thoughts out of your head!” Aeva informed him standing up and pulling him with her.

“How do you intend to do that?” James asked glumly.

“By living them.” Aeva said pulling him closer and locking her lips with his.

James woke up and for the first time in his life was proud of what was lying next to him. He looked past Aeva and onto the floor where her clothes were sprawled amongst his own. James smiled to himself and inched himself closer to Aeva, wrapping his arms around her and kissing her lips carefully. He stared at her for a couple of minutes before deciding the most romantic thing he could do was make her breakfast! He crept out of the bed carefully, pulled on a pair of pants and headed downstairs. He opened the kitchen door, looked up and screamed!

“DAVE!” James screamed as he noticed a blonde rummaging through his fridge.

“James!” Dave exclaimed back dropping a carton of milk onto the floor.

“What are you doing?” James demanded sounding angry.

“Nothing.” Dave replied shrugging casually.

“Why are you in my house? How did you get in? Why are you raiding my fridge?” James fired at him.

“I’m hungry! The bathroom window was open! You said I can come round any time I want!” Dave said putting his hands up to block James’ vicious eyes.

“Yeah but I would like to know you were actually here!” James shouted.

“Fine! Now you know… so what’s the problem?” Dave asked grinning. James moved towards him with the intention of strangling him, but instead he heard Aeva stirring upstairs.

“Go! Now!” James shouted pushing Dave out of the back door.

“Fine then” Dave said trying to act cool as he stepped in a bucked… he kicked it off then walked off angrily.

“James?” James spun round to see Aeva dressed in a pair of his boxers and a t-shirt.

“Morning.” James said wrapping his arms around her and hugging her.

“Your bed is so comfy.” Aeva stated. She yawned then walked over to the kitchen table and sat down.

“Do you want some breakfast? I was going to make you some for a surprise but…”

“Sure.” Aeva replied examining the pictures stuck to the fridge.

“What would you like?” James asked opening cupboards and examining the content.

“I’m not bothered. Is this your dad?” Aeva asked pointing out a picture of James and his dad ready to go fishing.

“Yeah.” James replied. He walked over to her and pointed out the rest of his family.

“Your dad’s hot.” Aeva smiled. James looked at her like she was mad. “Not as hot as you though!”

“Good.” James smiled. He turned round and got back to fixing them both some breakfast.

***

Dave stormed round the corner of James’ house and looked back at it angrily. How dare James make him fall into a bucket! If it wasn’t for him James would not have had the chance to do whatever he did with Aeva last night! He made his way over to Sinead’s house still feeling tense and knocked on her door. Sinead answered smiling.

“Hey.” She said stepping out of the door.

“Hi.” Dave replied trying to forget the bucket.

“What’s up babe?” Sinead asked running her hand through Dave’s hair.

“I don’t wanna say.” Dave replied sticking his bottom lip out.

“Come on, you know you’ll feel better.” Sinead said poking his lip.

“Ok, I was hungry so I went to James’ for breakfast. However James was not up so I broke in to not be rude… then he came down and pushed me into a bucket!” Dave stated clenching his fists. Sinead looked at him for a minute then started to cough… which was so obviously her way of stopping fits of giggles coming out.

“Aww Davey Babey!” Sinead cooed. “Come into my house and I’ll make you a special breakfast treat!”

The thing that James feared the most at the moment was being with Aeva and realising he still loved Sinead. For so long he had been thinking that what he was doing was settling for second best. However lately he had been feeling so much more for Aeva, Sinead had hardly been on his mind. There was only one way he would know if he had finally gotten over Sinead. Today was the day he would find out. Yesterday before Aeva had left his house after their amazing night he had asked her if she wanted to meet up today. Aeva thought it would be romantic to go bowling, like their first date. James agreed and decided to make it the same Dave and Sinead would have to be there. So now the four of them were going to be out on another bowling date and it was time for James to see if Sinead was still in his heart.

“You know I had to clean a foot mark off the toilet before.” James said nudging Dave’s head as he walked past him.

“I care because?” Dave said ignoring the head nudging as he concentrated on picking a prostitute up on Grand Theft Auto.

“You left it there.” James stated.

“Did not.” Replied Dave.

“Did too.”

“Did not.”

“Did too.”

“When are we meeting Sinead and Aeva.” Dave asked ignoring James’ other comment.

“Half three.” James replied.

“Better get our skates on then.” Dave said not taking his eyes off the TV.

“Why?” James asked tilting his head in awe at the way Dave managed to get six girls into his stolen vehicle.

“It’s twenty five to four.” Dave said slowly.

“What?!” James exclaimed standing up and panicking. “Quick!”

Dave looked at James as comprehension dawned on him. He bolted up and switching the TV off while putting his coat on in one swift movement he pushed past James and left the house at full speed. James grabbed his coat and followed him as fast he could.

Five minutes later they arrived outside of the bowling arena to see two girls giving them dirty looks.

“Ten minutes late.” Sinead said looking at her watch.

“I’ve been stood here for twenty.” Aeva said.

“Sorry.” Both boys said putting puppy dog eyes on.

“Oh it’s ok.” Sinead said grinning and putting her arm through Dave’s.

“Let’s go bowl.” Aeva smiled opening the doors and letting everyone in, except James who held it open for her.

“Bowling with my homies.” Aeva sang as she aimed the ball. James stared at her and smiled to himself. Random. If James had to sum Aeva up in one word it would definitely be random.

“You’re aiming straight for the gu…” Aeva let go of the ball just as James tried to warn her. She watched it roll down the aisle then make it’s way into the guttering.

“You jinxed me!” Aeva grinned as she turned around.

“I think we’re going to lose again.” James smiled as hugged Aeva.

“It’s all your fault too!” Aeva said as she playfully poked him. James smiled at her and sat back down as Dave picked up a ball. James kissed Aeva on the cheek gently as she buried her head into his shoulder, he didn’t mind staying like that but his eyes kept glancing over to Sinead. Sinead was watching Dave with admiration in here eyes, if James did love her more than Aeva he couldn’t split that up.

“Dave make sure your hairs not in your face…” James said laughing.

“Shut up!” Dave shouted as he let the ball gracefully slip from his fingers and slide perfectly down the aisle striking all the pins.

“Woo! Go Dave! Go Dave!” Sinead cheered. James looked over at her and felt a twinge of something. He couldn’t decide what it was, but he hoped it wasn’t jealousy.

“Your turn James.” Aeva said pushing him up. James walked up to the balls and picked a black one, he stepped to where he had to and aimed the ball.

“If I get a strike now… Aeva is the one for me. If even one is still standing Sinead is the one.’’ He whispered to himself. He drew his arm back took aim and dropped the ball as his arm went forward. The ball rolled slower than anything that James had ever seen his life. It was going straight until he noticed a slight dip in it, it was aiming left. Would it still get a strike?

The ball rolled and rolled on, with each turn twisting James’ heart into a tiny knot. Until eventually it hit a pin. One pin. The pin on the very end. James looked back at Sinead. She was smiling at him, then she smiled at Dave. She could not be the one. James looked at Aeva, she was also smiling at him. He smiled back. His head snapped round to the pins, the one that the ball had hit had toppled over onto another, then another, then another. What was this a game of dominoes? James thought. He swallowed back hard and watched as one by one each and every pin fell down. A strike. A smile spread on James’ face as he realised what it mean. He spun round and looked at Aeva who was cheering him, the first strike of the game for them! He ran up to her and pulled her into a bear hug, he knew he was almost crushing her, but it was worth it knowing that after all he had felt lately… Aeva was the one.

“James, please, I’m going to die!” Aeva complained pushing him away, but she still smiled.

“Sorry. I just realised something though.” James grinned.

“What? That you’re not a complete sap and you do actually have some strength in your tiny, but hot, body?” Aeva said laughing.

“No it’s way more important then that.” James said still grinning.

“What is it?”

“Do you remember when you guessed that I was in love Sinead?” James asked.

“Yeah.” Aeva replied, her smile disappearing.

“I did. I thought she was the one.” James said grabbing Aeva’s hand.

“Oh.” Aeva said stepping back from him.

“But I was wrong. Aeva… you’re the one.” With that last sentence from James, Aeva lost her sadness and smiled at him. James dropped her hand and pulled her into another hug, then kissed her passionately as much as he could.

“James… people are looking.” David said from somewhere behind, but James didn’t hear.