Forever and Always

Alexa’s POV

It’s been a while since that simple lunch we had at the cafe a few weeks ago. Since then, Felix walking me to my class, waiting for me after school, and hanging out around the city after school have become a regular routine.

And I really enjoy his company.

When the school bell rang, I collected my belongings and headed outside. But this time, when I approached the gates where Felix usually waits for me, he was engaged in conversation with a girl.

They were laughing and seemed to be having a good time. I couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy in my chest, even though they didn’t appear to be flirting.

She was quite attractive with her long blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes.

Darn it, do I have a massive crush on Felix Colton?

Felix noticed me and smiled, calling me over.

“Hey, come here,” he beckoned, and I complied.

“Hey,” I said awkwardly.

“Hi, meet Grace. She’s the daughter of a friend of my mother’s,” Felix introduced. Grace and Felix exchanged playful banter and laughter, and she even playfully punched him, making them both laugh.

She’s gorgeous. And they seem to be getting along really well.

Felix turned to me again.

“How about we go to the park before I drop you off at home?” he suggested, that charming smile of his lighting up his face. I returned the smile, but I shook my head.

“Sorry, not today. My mom is at home, and my dad is also coming over. Maybe some other time?” His smile briefly faltered, but he quickly recovered.

“Sure, another time then. I’ll just drop you home now.”

••••

“Bye, Felix—” I began, but my dad’s deep voice interrupted me.

“Alexa?” I turned around and saw my dad’s warm smile through the window, but then his expression changed as he saw Felix.

He came out, arms open, and I rushed to embrace him tightly.

“Aw! I missed you, Lexi,” he said, and I giggled, nodding in agreement.

“I missed you too, Dad.”

His attention shifted to Felix, and his expression turned slightly icy.

“Who’s this?” Dad’s gaze was fixed on Felix, his tone less than friendly.

Felix got out of the car, his confident smirk still in place.

“It’s been a while, hasn’t it?” Felix said. Dad’s expression softened, and he rushed over to Felix.

What’s happening?

“Indeed, it has been a long time. Look how much you’ve grown, Felix. Hitting the gym, huh?” Dad playfully punched Felix’s bicep, and Felix chuckled, rubbing his arm.

“You could say that,” Felix replied.

“You two have met before?” I asked, stunned.

“Of course, we used to play together when you were one and two years old,” Dad explained.

Wait, what?

“Yeah, Mom mentioned it, but I don’t remember any of it,” Felix admitted sheepishly.

“You were both so small then,” Dad laughed. “Well, come inside, bud. Let’s have lunch together.” Dad hooked an arm around Felix’s shoulders, and I was left standing there.

Did he already forget about me?

••••

“Why the gloomy face, Cupcake?” Felix teased as I entered the living room wearing shorts and a t-shirt. I rolled my eyes and made my way to the kitchen.

“Come on, Princess. Don’t be like that,” he whined, giving me a playful pout that almost melted my heart.

Almost.

As I walked out of the kitchen, I was abruptly pulled back, my back pressing against Felix’s chest, and I let out a yelp.

“Don’t give me that attitude, Muffin,” he whispered into my ear, sending shivers down my spine. I detested how my body reacted to his touch.

He led me to a nearby guest room and leaned against the door, closing it.

“What’s bothering you? Talk to me,” he urged, narrowing his eyes at me. I swallowed the lump in my throat and looked down, feeling the heat rising to my cheeks.

“Was that the only reason you talked to me?” I asked, my voice barely audible.

“What reason?”

“That our parents have a history?” I inquired, hoping my suspicions were wrong. He let out a sigh, his hands gently cupping my face and guiding my gaze to his.

“No, Alexa. Don’t you see?” His eyes softened, his thumb brushing against my skin.

“See what?”

“That I like you. I really do, Alexa. Maybe even more than I should. Whenever you’re around, all I can think about is pulling you close and kissing you like crazy. You make me smile, you make me laugh, and you make me do things I’ve never done for anyone else.” He chuckled, his gaze flickering to my lips.

We were so close, and his eyes drifted from my gaze to my lips. Just when I thought he was about to kiss me...

“Alex! Felix! Lunch is ready!” Mom’s voice echoed through the house. Our gazes snapped back to reality, and Felix took a step back.

“Coming, Aunt Mary!” Felix yelled in response. He then turned to me. “Next time, let’s hope we don’t get interrupted.” He smirked, winked, and walked away.

What on earth just happened?

Feeling a bit dazed, I made my way downstairs to join everyone for lunch. Felix shot me a wink as he left, and I was sure my parents didn’t catch it as they were engrossed in conversation.

Blushing slightly, I sat down to eat.

After lunch, Felix, my dad, and my mom engaged in conversation.

“You guys should visit our house sometime. I’m sure my parents would love it,” Felix suggested.

“Definitely. It would be nice to catch up after such a long time,” Dad agreed, and Mom smiled.

Felix departed a few minutes later, winking at me again before leaving.

What a day it has been!