Realistic or Modern Anchored by Love (Draft Four... lol)

[isax]

Isabel​

Waking up the following morning, I let out a groan from how early it was but the alarm blaring from my phone was even more so. Turning it off I sat up, smiling contently before I got out of bed and into the shower, ready for the day that was ahead. Last night with Dawson was amazing. It made me feel like a teenage girl back in high school going out with her boyfriend despite her parents telling her no.

Going into the newsroom, I fell back into the wretched routine I was now aware of thanks to Dawson. It was more than annoying to be back in front of a computer screen going through files and files of people's background history for the story we were working on. It was boring and I was thankful I requested the afternoon off so that I could go check in on Amelia because this was driving me insane and on the verge of pulling my editor aside and telling him I quit.

Arriving at the best Chinese spot Amelia and I could find in Dallas, I ordered our food for us to go, waiting inside the restaurant for the food. While waiting, I scrolled through the journalistic Twitterverse, smiling when I saw some stories from the friends I met in college. Hearing the phone ding, I looked at the banner that appeared, grinning like a child when I saw it was Dawson. I opened the text a little too quickly but not as quick as I replied back to him.

"Well good afternoon to you too. How's the ranch? Last night was amazing. Anyway we can plan another night like that soon?"

Thanking the owner for my food shortly after I responded to Dawson, I stopped by Emporium Pies and picked up a a slice of mine and Amelia's favorite before I made the drive to Amelia's apartment. Letting myself in I laughed when I saw Jayden sleeping on the couch again. I knew better than to think he wouldn't be here after work considering he was still very much worried about Amelia. Going into her room, I shut the door before I set the food and desert on her bed once again.

"Well hello hello, I see your knight in shinning armor refuses to go home. How sweet. I hope you're hungry because I brought Chinese and some pie."

 

[Lexus]

Amelia​

"So sweet," I mocked picking up the slice of pie first as I always did when given the option. I didn't ask Isabel over but I was glad she was here. Jayden worked yet another night shift even though I secretly hoped he wouldn't because I didn't want to be alone my first night home after having major surgery, but I knew his responsibility to the streets was much bigger than him and I wasn't going to ask Isabel to postpone her date when I knew she was looking forward to it. So, I spent the night by myself, not getting much sleep until Jayden came to lay next to me but eventually, I needed my medication and my bed.

"I would ask how work was, but I think it's more important to ask how your night with the Navy man was? Was it everything you dreamed of and more? Did he sweep you off your feet and then take you to bed? Tell me allllllll the details?"

 

[isax]

Isabel​

Pushing Amelia playfully, I shook my head at what she said, giggling as I thought about what happened last night with Dawson all over again. It was a sweet time spent with the cowboy and something I definitely hoped we could do sometime soon. Pulling out my food from the bag, I pulled apart the chopsticks before I finally told Amelia everything I did with Dawson the previous night.

"Well, if we're being honest, the night in bed was ravishing. He definitely hasn't lost his touch in that area, if ya know what I mean," I stated as I playfully rubbed the front of my neck teasingly, laughing when Amelia squealed at me. "Aside from that we ate at Spaghetti Warehouse, he requested a table in my favorite spot, right in the center of the restaurant where the train is. It was awkward at first, mainly because we didn't know what to talk about and we were both pretty nervous. He made me realize somethings which I am totally grateful for. After we broke the ice, everything else went rather smoothly. He dragged me out of the restaurant towards some of the scooters and we rode them to Deep Ellum for pie, then after we got that we rode them downtown, sitting at Klyde Warren for a bit. After a rather childlike adventure in the city we went back to our cars and met back at the ranch." I was gushing. I usually wasn't this soft of a person but Dawson made me one.

"At the ranch we star gazed in the back of his truck with some blankets and pillows. Then after that we ended up in bed, doing amazing things before we fell asleep. It was quite a night and I didn't fall asleep until three. We really did act like we were back in high school but I loved every minute of it."

 

[Lexus]

Amelia​

"You make me want to throw up," I teased, taking a bite of pie, I laughed at Isabel's expression. "I'm kidding! I'm happy you're happy." I meant that. This was the first time in a long time I witnessed Isabel get giddy over something, and hearing about it, I was glad I didn't make her come to my rescue. The truth was, I wanted Isabel and Dawson to work it out. Crazy right? I know. But I couldn't deny how happy that man made my best friend. Even when she was with Nick, he made her happy, but she wasn't at her peak the way she was with Dawson, and I couldn't forget how miserable she was while he was deployed. It was the worst I had ever seen her. The way he took control of her emotions, that was love. I didn't have to like Dawson's attitude to know that. Isabel saw something in Dawson and there was no unseeing it. His control over her was the reason for me to worry, which is why things ended the way they did because I didn't want Isabel settling in life to please a man. If he was capable of reciprocating the love she felt for him, he would see that the life he was trying to build with Isabel, it was like he was building a luxurious cage to keep her in. From my perspective a year ago, I was convinced Dawson was more obsessed with Isabel than anything and I couldn't stand it.

Now a year had passed and he seemed to be making a change, paying attention to Isabel really was. My new first impression of Dawson was that he was trying hard to swoon, Isabel, the right way, but I couldn't tell Isabel that. My approval would only build her expectations around this second chance, and if things for some reason, didn't pan out and it turned out Dawson was no different than he was before, I couldn't let Isabel fall as hard as she did before. So, to keep it realistic, I kept my skepticism alive for now. After all, it was just one dinner and when a man like Dawson wants something, he knows how to play his cards to get it and I had a hunch Dawson learned from his first big mistake and was learning that Isabel thrived on independence and thinking people were paying attention to her over the small details. I wanted to believe just as much as Isabel that after a year facing combat that Dawson changed, but his motives still worried me.

"Just remember, puppy love is only a stage, Isabel and you still need to keep a guard up until his intentions make themselves clear. It was one night. If you want a future with him this time, you need to be the one to set the expectations. He has to know y'all need to make a compromise on what you both think your future together should be. All of this means nothing if he thinks you've changed your mind on marrying him and moving to the ranch to play whatever role those rich entitled people want you to play."

 

[isax]

Isabel​

Rolling my eyes at Amelia's reminder of puppy love being just a stage, I took what she said into consideration about how the night panned out. I was gushing, which hardly ever happened, and I was smiling so bright that my cheeks were starting to hurt. I was in a good mood, even at work where I fell into that wretched routine I've been stuck in for an entire year. Just one night with Dawson changed how I felt about my days going forward and if that wasn't a sign of puppy love, I don't know what is but I didn't care. I loved Dawson, a lot, so much that I couldn't get past him knowing he was deployed and in danger every single day. I cared about him more than I cared about myself and I could only hope this time around everything worked out how I wanted. I could only hope these dates led up to what I know he and I both want, but a future that we agreed on together, not one of me conforming and being trapped in a box.

"You're not wrong there. I may have stepped foot on the ranch but I didn't see a single member of his family. I can't bring myself to do it yet. I feel like they think so little of me but whatever, I'm pretty damn awesome. I honestly can't wait until our next date but I need to stop. Now I'm gushing too much. I do need to talk to you about something other than the date though."

Biting my lip nervously, I released a soft sigh when she asked me what it was.

"Well, while talking with Dawson last night about my work, I came to the realization that I've settled. It's disgusting realizing it and I want to do so much more than write stories about money laundering in city hall," Sighing, I continued. "I told Dawson what I really wanted to be covering right now was everything happening at the border. I want to tell the stories from immigrants that need to be out there. He said I should, mentioned that maybe I should drop what I'm doing here and catch the story on my own without worrying about who will buy it. I want to but I just, ugh, it's complicated."

 

[Lexus]

Amelia​

The conversation shifting from Isabel reliving her night with Dawson to wanting to talk to me about what was on her mind wasn't unusual. This happened often because whenever we reflected the both of us had a tendency to think about deeper things other than the simple things originally brought up. It's part of the reason we became so close so rapidly, but I didn't mind it, on the contrary, my conversations with Isabel would remain my favorite because of how fulfilling they were. There weren't very many people in my life could indulge in my deep thinking like Isabel could.

"What is it, love?" I asked curiously, giving her my full attention as she confided in me about realizing the boredom in her routine. I saw this coming. I was just waiting for her to realize it. Isabel's aspirations for her career had always been pretty out there compared to everyone else who strived for the minimum. Isabel craved more and I knew it was only a matter of time before she had enough of working with a team and found herself wanting to go out and tell stories on her own. I always respected that and hoped that she go through with it when she thought she was ready. What I was surprised about was that Dawson apparently made my best friend come to this realization during dinner. This was strange to me considering he had a tendency to voice his displeasure about the risks in Isabel's journalism career, another reason we didn't get along in the beginning. He was always selfish, wanting to keep Isabel 'safe' and to himself.

"It's not as complicated as you're making it, best friend. If it's something you want to do, then do it, go to the border and freelance. It's something you've always thought about doing and you're not going to let go of it until you try. Otherwise, you'll regret it for the rest of your life and wish you had. Change is okay, it helps you grow and this could be what sets you apart from everyone else. It could turn out to be your 'it story' but you never know unless you try."

 

[isax]

Isabel​

"Change is wonderful, let's be honest, but me moving down to the valley? Leaving Dawson and you behind like that? I don't know Melia. I love Dallas too much to just say adios and completely move out of the city. Yeah I love Harlingen and San Benito but I don't know, I never pictured living down there." I said with a shrug, eating my orange chicken contently before I released another sigh. "I think I'll do it. I have to look into it just a little more but I think this is the move I have to take."

Looking over at Amelia I wanted to ask the one question I knew no one had asked her lately. Are you okay with where you're at? I knew working at the AP this long wasn't for her, hell, being in one spot wasn't for her. She hated it and I understood why. We were both so ambitious in everything we wanted to achieve in life and we weren't normal journalist in this career to focus on local journalism for the entirety of our time as a journalist. We wanted to tell stories no one else would and touch so many lives.

"But what about you? Any big moves in store for you?" When she gave me that confused look, I laugh. "Oh c'mon Amelia. You knew I was tired of this routine shit just like I know you're over being stuck in one city working for the AP. You're ready for a move just as much as I am but I know where I want to go from here. Do you?"

 

[Lexus]

Amelia​

I wasn't prepared for the conversation to turn on me, and when it did, I literally choked on pie crust. "Me? We were talking about you!" I exclaimed reaching for the drink on my nightstand to catch my breath. "I am not going to apply to The Washington Post, you're crazy! Last night really did do a number on your brain! It's too late for that," I insisted shaking my head.

Originally, my dream was to take a job straight out of college in Dallas to be closer to Isabel after being apart for so long, to make up for all the lost time. It was a good move, I didn't regret it, but I was always adamant about not staying in one place too long, in fear of growing too comfortable with a mundane routine and never striving to pursue bigger goals I knew I was capable of. I thought after Isabel graduated and went on to find herself, my move would follow shortly after, once I had established myself enough to be a profitable prospect to an employer like The Post, but then she went on tour with Dawson and I couldn't bring myself to move while she was away. There was the move to Guatemala, after that, I thought for sure the move was happening, I started applying everywhere, The Post included, but then it all came to a halt when Jayden slickly made his way into my life in a way I wasn't prepared for. A relationship wasn't even on my radar, but losing Isabel and feeling alone, things quickly got serious between us, and I didn't want to jeopardize that by moving across the country so early on in our relationship, so I declined all the job offers, again, The Post included, and stayed put without mentioning what I had done to anyone. Now, I was still working at the same place five years later, not really giving much thought to a change like I used to. Like I was afraid of, I had grown too comfortable in what I built for myself.

"I don't know," I segwayed with a shrug. Things are different now, I guess, and I never gave a change much thought. I feel like now that someone else is involved in my life decisions, I can't just pick up everything and move to satisfy myself like I did when I I moved here. Jayden is climbing the ranks here, I make decent money, and the assignments aren't bad, the audience likes them. Which means the editors love them, things just seem to be falling into place and I don't want to be the reason they fall apart. I'm all he has, best friend, I still can't get him to budge about going to visit his family. It'd be different if I knew he would be okay on his own, but I know if I wasn't here he would go back to working all day, seven days a week just to keep himself busy, but the streets, they take a toll on him. He sees things no one should have to see and with what we just lost, me suggesting a move would only add to it all. Now isn't the right time and to be honest, I don't know when the right time will be, but I'm okay either way. I know it's not what I envisioned for myself, but plans change and we're in a good place right now despite the circumstance. It's not like I didn't try to leave Dallas."

Here we go, telling her the one thing she doesn't know like that will change her mind about you moving on. If anything, it'll only confirm what she thinks, but she needs to know.

"When I came back from Guatemala I wasn't planning to stay long, I was on the hunt for something new. I applied everywhere and after that series took off, every place I applied offered to hire me, but I declined them all, not because I didn't think I was good enough," I warned at her glare, "But because that's right when things were getting serious between us, and I had just got you back in my life, to pick up and move at that time, seemed silly when everything else I wanted was right here. I don't regret my decision it was the right choice, but the old me, she would have been so thrilled she made it that far in life, too pick where she wanted to go because EVERYONE wanted her? That was crazy overwhelming and I didn't know how to handle it. But the point is, you should take this opportunity before you and Dawson get serious again. You deserve it, and if anything, it will be a test for him to prove himself that he can handle the circumstances of a strong career woman like yourself. I'm so proud of you!"

 

[isax]

Isabel​

I rolled my eyes as I listened to Amelia give me her excuse as to why she wasn't moving anywhere new. It wasn't a good enough answer for me, mainly because I knew how much she wanted it, and only hearing her finally tell me that she applied to other places after her series in Guatemala, I couldn't help but shake my head in disappointment. Despite us just starting to be friends again, actually having one another again, she should have told me she was looking into a new newsroom because I would've pushed her to go because she deserved that and she needed to be shared with the world. I knew she was right about Jayden, however, I was certain he wouldn't be able to handle having Amelia move to another city while he stayed here. Long distance wasn't for Jayden, but I did think if he really heard Amelia out, he would push her to do this for herself too.

"No ma'am, don't put this back on me. I can't believe you had other newsrooms that wanted you and you turned them down, especially The Post, Amelia, but fine fine, I won't pester you about it anymore. I just think you should go out like you want to, even more because I'm more than likely going to do the same. I know you're worried about Jayden and I know you don't think he can handle this but maybe you should talk it out with him first. He can't keep you here forever, Melia. He knew being in a relationship with you meant letting you go out into the world to better it, kind of like you do every night when he has a shift. We didn't date normal men for a reason. I'm sure he'll understand."

Smiling gently at Amelia, I took her hands into my own, sighing softly before I shook my head.

"Just talk to him about it and hell, if you don't leave Dallas, maybe it's time to move on from the AP. Do freelance work with me! Chase your own stories. Your Guatemala series was your it story. It's still valuable work on your resume plus with your contacts for recommendations, you're more than set to do freelance work. At least think about it. We both gotta do our own thing before we start establishing the SS, right?"

 

[Lexus]

Amelia​

He knew being in a relationship with you meant letting you go out into the world. No, he doesn't because we never talked about what I wanted to do before I settled somewhere permanently. Sure, I told him in casual conversation my ultimate goal aside from starting a company with Isabel was to work for The Post, but that's all he knew. He didn't know all the hopping around I hoped to do in my twenties, but now that that decade of my life was coming to a close, with only two years to spare ,it didn't matter and it wasn't like he needed to know my original plans because he would take them too personally. Jayden would blame himself for my choice to stay here when I was the one who decided that on my own. There was no point in indulging in my old aspirations. It wasn't as easy as bringing it up as Isabel suggested but that was I appreciated the effort she was trying to make to make me happy, but it only realized how much of a hypocrite I was being.

Like Isabel, I was willing to settle for the man I fell for. I was willing to stay in Dallas so he could make a name for himself to the department he committed himself to since he was 18. Whenever he called in my spare time, I was there to entertain him, took care of his every need without him having to ask, and when we found out we were going to bring another person into the world together, I didn't want to be a mother, but I owned up to the responsibility and obligation without considering the options because I knew Jayden wanted a family.

You became what you despise. Ironic how things come full circle, huh. You're what you're telling Isabel not to be. You're just like your mom. The only reason the Guatemala series was so good, so powerful is that that's the only time you've ever done something for yourself without having to consider someone else's feelings about you being away for so long doing what you know you were meant to do. It was so, freeing. Despite how horrific the reality was, it was the only time you felt in control of your own destiny and then, you met Jayden and he changed everything. In a good way you thought, but now, you're not so sure. You love to play hard to get for a reason. Because you know asking someone to commit to you when you're barely in their daily life is too much to ask. You put up a guard to protect yourself, but you gave in, why? To live like this? Isabel's right, this isn't what you wanted. Do you really want to end up resenting him and the kids you'll give him to please him because you didn't stand up for what you wanted? Yeah, he's worth that. because you love him, and you're too afraid of confrontation and letting go of a good thing to live that kind of life now.

Pushing the thought away, I nodded at Isabel's question.

"You're right, Bel. I'll think about it, okay? I just don't think it's something I should bring up right away. He's still grieving and I don't want to add to it, but I promise I will when the time is right." Maybe never. "So can I help you look into this?" I asked reaching for my laptop and handing it to her.

"First step is finding a place to sleep."

 

[isax]

The Following Week
Isabel​

After spending an entire week researching and figuring out what I was going to do when in the valley, I decided it was time to fill in Dawson. I know we just started over again but he and Amelia were two of my biggest supporters in this aspect of my life. Dawson now understood what my career meant to me and because of that he wanted me to go to the border and tell the stories that needed to be told.

I invited Dawson over to the apartment for dinner, deciding that I was craving more of a home cooked meal rather than going out, plus I thought it was a little more intimate considering the circumstances around this dinner. I decided to make us steaks, something I knew Dawson loved while I had a tendency not to eat it s much. Red meat and I weren't the best of friends but it had been awhile since the last time I had it and now I was craving it.

Pairing it with a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, I set up the table for us with a candle in the center, lit and sharing it's soft and subtle fragrance throughout the apartment. Grabbing my phone, I sent a quick text to Amelia.

"I'm nervous to finally tell him about everything, ahhh."

When I heard a knock, I set my phone down on the counter and quickly ran over to the door, opening it with a bright smile before I tip toed and kissed Dawson lovingly.

"Hi there handsome. Dinner's almost ready," Moving out of the door frame so he could come in, I shut the door and walked back to what I was doing in the kitchen. "How was the ranch today?"

Jayden​

It's been a week since Amelia left the hospital and was told to stay home for a good recovery. After working a night shift right after she got home, I decided to take on a couple of day shifts for a bit, just until Amelia was better. I knew she didn't like being home alone at night and despite her trying so hard to keep her pain a secret, it didn't last. I knew the pain for her was unbearable and I wanted to be there in case she needed anything.

Maybe she's tired of you always being there.

Shaking my head, I thanked the woman who handed me the order of tacos I bought for dinner tonight with Amelia. It was the only joint that had both Amelia and Isabel's stamp of approval and probably the only spot you could find authentic Mexican food in the Dallas metroplex. It looked run down but Isabel always said those that did were the best spots and she wasn't lying.

Letting myself into Amelia's apartment, I smiled down at the boxer that came to greet me, petting her fur before I smiled in Amelia's direction where she sat on the couch.

"I bring tacos." I said, holding the bag up before setting it down on the coffee table in front of her, stripping myself of the utility belt around my waist. Leaning down, I gave Amelia a gentle hello kiss before I walked to her room. "I'm going to change really fast. What did you start watching today?"

 

[Lexus]

Dawson​

Having Isabel back my routine was refreshing. It wasn't until our dinners and date nights became nonexistent did I realize how much I looked forward to them throughout the week. I remembered how pleasant it was to come home to her at the end of every exhausting work day, thinking about how much I looked forward to it, hoping I would get to do the same thing for the rest of my life. So, when she invited me over for a casual dinner at her apartment, I accepted the offer as quickly as she extended the invitation.

Returning her kiss, I placed a hand on her waist bringing us closer together while she spoke.

"It smells delicious," I whispered, letting her go in a grin, making my way inside, I chuckled when Apollo came rampaging out of the living room to assert his dominance by yapping at my feet. Holding out a hand for him to sniff, I took the opportunity to tease him for his size.

"You haven't changed Apollo, you still think you have a chance with me, but we're like a horse and a horse fly. I could eat you with my two front teeth when you try to come near me." Looking up at Isabel, I put my hands back in the front pocket of my "formal" jeans, the one pair I owned that didn't have rips and tears and permanent mud stains from the corral.

"It's good, same old same old, I guess. Nothing too interesting. Savannah invited you to her baby shower if you want to go, it's next Saturday, but you don't have to go, it's up to you, she said you didn't have to bring anything but yourself."

Amelia​

I AM SO BORED. The last week felt like the longest of my life and I was uncertain how the next two would go. I knew if they were anything like now, I would lose my sanity. I couldn't take sitting in this apartment binge watching things on Netflix just to pass the time, counting down the hours until the day would end. It was miserable. It was just me and Roo, and as much as she did her best to keep me company, I needed human interaction for more than a few hours before Jayden went to bed and Isabel left to go to work. I was craving to do something productive. So, knowing my editor, Karen, wouldn't put me on a budget, I literally begged her for editing work. It wasn't my proudest moment, but I got what I wanted. I had done it for her in the past during busy news weeks when she lacked help, so she knew I was capable, but like everyone else, she hoped I would take a moment to breathe and come to terms with the miscarriage. Like everyone else, she expected me to have a normal reaction of grief, but unfortunately, I wasn't normal. I hated to admit it to myself, and aside from Isabel, I would never admit to anyone else that my grief didn't exist. However, everyone can acknowledge that grief takes many forms and possess many facets, and I convinced Karen, my work was how I chose to handle mine.

I spent all day editing pages for print, Karen sent them all one at a time, so when I finished one I would ask for another and in the span of five hours, I managed to make all the edits for the next online edition and Karen made little critiques only complimented me on my attention to detail and thanked me for the help, giving me the daily buzz in the newsroom.

I miss the chaos.

When I heard Jayden come through the door, Karen just finalized the last page and asked if I considered taking on a full-time editor position. Biting my lip, I left the message unanswered for now and shut the laptop, pretending to pay attention to whatever I had put on in the background for room noise. Lucky for me it was an old season of Grey's Anatomy that I knew forward and backward.

Shrugging my shoulders as he walked away to change I called into the room. "It's just Grey's but you can change it," I said eyeing the bag of tacos, I wasn't hungry but noted the gesture. When Jayden reappeared I continued the conversation.

"How was work? Did you get anything exciting?"

​

 

[isax]

Isabel​

As I eyes the steaks, wanting them to have just the right amount of pink in the middle, I practically choked on thin air when Dawson stated that Savannah had invited me to her baby shower, and it was Saturday. I wasn't entirely sure if I was ready to face the Covington's so soon but I loved Brett and Savannah and I knew they had to be so excited for the bundle of joy they were bringing into the world, something I couldn't do. Stop it.

"The baby shower sounds like fun. Are you sure your family won't rip me apart?" I asked Dawson as softly as I could, not wanting to upset him or strike a nerve. I just genuinely didn't know how they would take my presence and I wasn't sure I was ready to find out.

Taking the steaks out of the over, I tipped over the cast iron pot and scooped the melted butter on top of them, humming contently at the scents that hit my nose. Grabbing the plates, I set them down before I began to plate the dinner I was content with, placing the steaks, mashed potatoes (homemade I might add) and fresh green beans.

"Dinner's ready," Walking to the table, I set down both of our plates, going to the fridge where I pulled out the Cabernet and ranch, setting both on the table before grabbing our wine glasses and following suit. "So, is the baby a boy or a girl?"

Jayden​

"Other than a couple of minor distress calls, not really," I said softly, sitting down on the couch beside Amelia while I reached over to the bag of tacos and took them out, setting Amelia's usual order out in front of her but noted that she didn't seem to be in the mood for food. "I can put these in the fridge if you want. You don't seem like you're hungry."

Leaning over, I kissed the top of her head before I focused back on the food, digging in rather quickly because of how hungry I was. When Roo made her way over and whined because she smelled the food, I looked over to Amelia to make sure she wasn't looking before I secretly gave the boxer a piece of meat from my taco. She ate it happily and so did I.

"What did you do today?" I asked Amelia, rolling my eyes when she tried to convince me she did nothing. "Okay sure. I know you're bored so you more than likely asked Karen for work. What did ya work on?"

 

[Lexus]

Dawson​

I expected Isabel to be hesitant in accepting the invitation to the baby shower. For as long as we were together she was concerned with how my family perceived her and I understood. They were just as much a big part of my life as she was and she wanted to feel at home in their presence but that was difficult when they were set in their traditional ways and Isabel didn't fit the criteria they were used to, but the truth was, I didn't care. All the reasons she didn't fit in were the reasons I fell in love with her. She was so different from who I pictured myself being with, and now that I had her, there was no conforming to the old ways. I wanted her to be the start to a new chapter in the Covington lineage. I wanted to build a family and a life with this woman, letting go of those stupid expectations but that meant Isabel having to handle the scrutiny and I always hated subjecting her to it. I couldn't comprehend why accepting her was so much to ask, but this time, if she gave me another chance, I would defend her like she deserved, unlike before. Savannah and Brett were the beginning of the bigger picture.

"Savannah wants you there, which means everyone else will be on their best behavior because it's her day, and who would upset a pregnant woman? Isn't it a universal law that that's a big no-no?" I asked taking my usual seat at the table when I came over like everything remained the same. "If you want to go, don't let them stop you," I said before thanking her for the plate she set in front of me before taking her own seat.

Amelia​

"I just edited a few pages for her, it was a hectic day for her," I replied in a shrug, keeping to myself, still thinking about what Karen asked before Jayden walked in. I was in disbelief she thought I was qualified enough to edit for the AP. I was humbled for a moment, but I found it strange her question only intensified my urge to move on from the AP. Getting that kind of promotion would mean I committed to one place far longer than I anticipated. It was in that moment I realized, this feeling of dissatisfaction and fear of settling meant I was unhappy. What bothered me about it, was that everyone would think my unhappiness was because I was a grieving supposed to be mother, when in reality, I just denied this feeling for too long. But I couldn't avoid the feeling of life being mundane anymore.

What about Jayden?

I didn't want to have this conversation with him, it was too soon. It would lead to him questioning our relationship and possibly an argument if things went too far downhill by bringing up. Picking up my phone, I read the text from Isabel and was quick to reply as a distraction.

"I'm sure he'll take it well and be happy for you, he's the one who suggested you do try it out in the first place. Have a nice dinner."

"So nothing interesting in Dallas happened today, huh. I guess that's good news, it means no one's causing trouble or getting hurt, but boring for you, my viral sensation," I teased, referring to the video of him saving a little boy on the side of the highway in a rainstorm. "Maybe tomorrow," I reassured him, inching closer toward him, resting my head on his shoulder, taking his free hand in mine. I wanted to ask Jayden if he was okay, but I didn't want to trigger him, but I decided, checking on him was more important. Jayden still hadn't opened up to me about our loss, and I was giving him space, but it had been a week and the thought of him repressing it any longer made me almost sick to my stomach.

"How are you?" I asked in a soft whisper, looking up at him dotingly.

 

[isax]

Isabel​

I gave some more thought to the baby shower while I began to cut into my steak. I loved Dawson, I really truly did, but when it came to me and his family the last time we tried being something, he always defended them. That isn't a bad thing, it really isn't, I understood, they're family but it did leave me feeling pretty shitty and like a complete outsider to the Covington family. I felt unwelcome there, even more so now considering the past, but I loved Brett and Savannah, they were the first two to truly take me in for who I was, and not going to such an amazing step in their life would be rude considering all they ever did for me.

Swallowing the piece of steak, I released a soft sigh before I nodded. Dawson was right. His family shouldn't stop me from being there for the happy couple, plus this wasn't my first rodeo being in a room of people who thought so little of me. They always turn out to be really fun.

"I'll go. For Brett and Savannah of course. They've been nothing but accepting of me and not going would be rude of me but I am buying them something. Go shopping with me tomorrow?" I asked him with a genuine smile, continuing to eat the flavorful dinner I made for the both of us.

"Okay so, I have something I need to tell you. After Amelia is released from recovery, I'm turning in my two-weeks notice with the DMN and I'm pursuing the one story I've been needing to cover. Shortly after those two weeks are up, I'll be heading down to the valley, my third home. Amelia helped me find a cute little apartment in the Brownsville area and most of my time will be spent there and going to Laredo," Pausing, I let the cowboy take everything I just said in. "Come visit me sometime?"

I felt shitty dropping this on Dawson but he was the one who suggested and I would forever be grateful he did because his push was what I needed to get out of this stand still life I was currently in. I wanted him to be excited but I also understood if he was upset considering the timing for leaving wasn't the best. We were just starting to work on things between us again and now I was going to move back down to south Texas. For how long, I didn't know. Long enough to do the story justice.

"I'm sorry. I know it's shitty timing but you're right. If I don't go now I never will."

Jayden​

I rolled my eyes when Amelia referred to me as her viral sensation. Cameras were everywhere now and days, it's something new recruits learn during academy. Instead of big brother watching us it's everyone watching us and there's always a chance our actions will be recorded and put on social media for everyone to see. That's what happened to me. My actions weren't bad, in fact they were the opposite. I saved a little boy on the highway after an accident while it was raining like hell. Ever since it hit Facebook, it's been shared millions of times and I've received so many thank you's from so many people but I wasn't a hero. I was just doing my job.

When she asked me how I was in such a soft whisper, however, I knew she was asking about how I was handling the miscarriage. If we were being honest I hadn't given much thought to what occurred for fear of breaking down and I couldn't let that happen. I was still on the job, I couldn't let an overpower of emotions affect what I was doing. Releasing a deep sigh, I closed my eyes, pushing back the pain like I had been doing. I was going to be okay but I worried about Amelia and it wasn't because of the miscarriage. I knew a child wasn't something she really wanted after hearing her talk to Isabel about it in the hospital. She didn't know that I overheard and I never wanted her to. I wasn't angry about it, I understood. I just wish she would've talked that out with me personally.

"I'm alright. Just going through the motions. It's all I can do. What about you? What's really bothering you, Amelia?"

 

[Lexus]

Dawson​

Grinning at Isabel's agreeance, I nodded at her condition that I go shopping with her. It was a simple tradeoff to make Brett and Savannah happy. " I will tag along if that's what you want," I replied realizing I never answered her question on whether they were having a boy or a girl so slipping it in now to tease her seemed appropriate.

"I'll make sure you don't try to gift the little boy anything too crazy,"

Expecting this conversation to continue, I looked up a little too quickly when Isabel changed the subject unexpectedly. From the tone in her voice, I knew whatever she was about to unveil to me was important. Aside from her voice, her facial expressions always gave her away in every situation.

She's taking the plunge.

Clearing my throat, I knew my smile would give away my approval that I assumed she wasn't expecting.

"I'm proud of you, Isabel. This is something you need to do for yourself and I understand that now, considering I left here on my own terms. I just hope everything turns out better for you then it did for me. I'll be sure to visit. When is Amelia getting cleared?"

Amelia​

Feeling defeated when Jayden opted not to open up to me, I looked to the floor when he turned the conversation back to me. This isn't what I wanted. I didn't want to argue, but by the tension in the room, I knew it was a possibility. I always felt it when things went south between us. It didn't happen to often, but we were like any normal couple who had their fair share of disagreements.

I couldn't tell Jayden what was actually bothering me, we needed to work through one hurdle before I introduced another, plus, before I was completely honest with Jayden, I needed to confide in Isabel to know it was the right thing to do. Yes, I have always been capable to make my own decisions, but something about validating my every decision with my best friend gave me a sense of confidence I lacked before she became a part of my life. However, I wasn't one to lie either, so I decided to confront Jayden with another truth.

"I'm just worried about you. You won't talk to me. You won't talk to anyone. That's not healthy, Jayden. You can't just pretend what happened, didn't happen. You lost a child. I thought maybe you would talk to Dawson, but you haven't even done that. You're not okay. You can continue to lie to me and suggest that you're fine, but I don't believe you." I didn't realize until it was happening, but my concern was turning to anger, but for a good reason. I was upset that Jayden was pulling away from me, it hurt tremendously because of how much I loved him. I wanted him to be okay. I wanted him to confide in me in the way I hoped he would. I knew to have these expectations would lead to disappointment, but it was inevitable. If Jayden couldn't confide in me, the mother to the child he lost, then what was our relationship? Moving away from him, I stood up, now crying in frustration I shook my head looking at him waiting for him to say something, anything.

Say something. Fight back. It's now or never.

 

[isax]

Isabel​

Seeing that approving grin and hearing Dawson tell me he was proud of me was something I wasn't entirely expecting. I knew this was his idea, something he really got me thinking about the last time we were together. If he didn't mention it I can't say I would have thought much on it, and even then I was surprised because this was definitely something the old Dawson wouldn't have suggested or agreed on. He would have let me go, but not like this, not by letting me know how proud he was of me and telling me this is what I needed to do for myself.

You really changed out on tour huh, Six?

Smiling, I tucked my hair behind my ear, a little tick I did for several years now. I cut another small piece of steak, eating it after I dipped it in ranch, sighing contently after I swallowed it.

"She should be released within the next couple of weeks. I know she's more than ready for it too," Looking at Dawson, I smiled at him again before looking back at my plate, "Are you sure you're okay with me going to the valley? That doesn't sound like you. I wish I could tell you when I'll be back in the city but I can't. Just know that I will be back, for you, for us."

Jayden​

I didn't hear much of what Amelia said. Just the part where she said she was worried about me and didn't like that I was pulling away. Pulling away wasn't my intention, it never was, but everyone handles grief differently. I just didn't know how the hell I was supposed to go to Amelia about what I was feeling when she didn't feel the same, when I knew she wasn't upset about the loss. In fact, she was more than relieved that it happened. I knew a baby wasn't something she wanted. We didn't have to talk about it for me to know, I could just tell when she told me we were expecting. I was too excited for her liking and I understood. She wanted to do so much more in life than have a kid with someone like me, a man holding her back from pursuing what she really wanted to be out there doing. The world deserved to have her and I was selfish by keeping her back.

Dear God, you're like Dawson. You can't hold her back, Jay. She needs to be shared with the world. Does that mean this is the end for us?

Sitting hunched over with my elbows on my knees, face in my hands, I wiped my face with an annoyed frustration before I sat back again, releasing a frustrated sigh while doing so.

"You won't talk to me either, Amelia. What am I supposed to do right now? Break in your presence over the child we lost despite knowing what I'm feeling is one sided?" Pausing, I realized I was raising my voice but when I saw the look of confusion on her face, I bit my lip, regretting what I said instantly. "I know, Amelia. I know that when this miscarriage was happening you were relieved."

Looking away from the woman I loved, I bit my lip, trying my hardest to stop myself from crying but felt the few hot tears that escaped anyways. Get a grip. You can't break like this.

"I overheard you when you told Isabel at the hospital. I shouldn't have eavesdropped but I just got there and was about to rush in but stopped when I heard you and Isabel talking. I'm not upset with you. Actually, I completely understand. You can't picture yourself as a mother and that's fine. Not everyone can. I just- I'm sorry, okay? I didn't mean to push you away but none of this has been easy for me to process. None of it. Not the call I was on before, not hearing about your miscarrying, not learning that you lost a lot of blood and I could have lost you too. None of it. It was a hell of a lot to take in within twenty-four hours and yeah I've been quiet, yeah I haven't talked to anyone about it but how can I when I can't even find the words to say? To describe the pain that I'm feeling. If I had to nail it down I'd say it's like a piece of me is missing."

 

[Lexus]

Dawson​

That doesn't sound like you. Clearing my throat in discomfort at her idea of me, I nodded again. "I'm certain I want you to do this as long as it is what you want to do, I support you. I'll be here when you decide to come home." I know this is the only way I will be able to keep you in my life, and if this is the one condition, then I'll do it. I love you that much, Isabel. "So you said you found a place, is there anything else you need? Anything I can do to help?"

Amelia​

Jayden's confession turned my heated blood once fueled my anger and desperation ice cold from sorrow and inadequacy. Bringing my hand to my mouth to force my sobs to stay contained in my throat, I caught a breath, the tears now streaming down my face as I watched Jayden let go of his.

He heard me. I broke him. I don't deserve him.

When he stood and took me into his arms, I unleashed the grief-stricken cry I harvested up until this point. The one I held for him.

"I'm so sorry, Jayden I-I didn't mean it like that!" I exclaimed. So he heard me, yes, it was relieving to me that I wasn't going to be a mother right now, but that didn't mean, if the baby made it that I wouldn't do anything and everything to be the mother I needed to be. I was willing to accept that responsibility, I just needed more time to prepare myself. The thought was still fresh and daunting, but now, knowing how devasted the lost truly left Jayden, I felt the same agonizing guilt Isabel felt when she miscarried. I was blaming myself for Jayden's unhappiness and making him feel as though his grief was illegitimate, and now, standing in the living room holding each other, submerged in the grief we shared. This was the first time in two weeks I didn't feel so alone.

Up until this point, I was the one who had to cope with the physical pain in the aftermath, and I was the one who was isolated and confined to this apartment until I was medically cleared. It felt like it was my burden to carry, but now, with it all out in the open, I felt like we were healing.

 

[isax]

Three Weeks Later:
Dallas, TX​

"Cut the crap. We got you in here for possession of narcotics and might I add the .09mm that ballistics matched with the murder of Dillon Samuel. Just own up to your shit already. You're going to jail anyways."

I loved the sweat box. I loved the interrogation process, making the people we brought in crack. Call me crazy for it but there was something I enjoyed about it despite how soft I had a tendency to be outside of work. It was a shame I wasn't actually the one in the sweat box doing the interrogating but Nick always did a decent job. Sitting at my desk, I released a sigh, looking up when I got called into the office by Captain Ramirez. Getting up, I followed him into his office, shutting the door behind me. The only time he ever called me in here was when it was in regards to the same reason I had to keep a low profile when in uniform now.

"What's up, Cap?" I asked him, staring at the phone he held out to me before looking back up at him. "And round?"

"I hate to keep doing this to you, Acciolli but you're the only in to the Ricci family and your buddy Tony has been calling you," He said while I took the phone with him and stared at it again, sighing.

"Cap, I thought we agreed the last time was it."

"I know, I know we did but we're close, Jay. So close to bringing that whole operation down."

"All of this started out as a small bust on Tony. I never once thought it would turn into something like this, Cap. I haven't even told Amelia about this."

"You know you can't."

"I know that but the deeper I get into this, the more at risk she can be and you know it. One wrong move and I won't be the only one to come down."

"Just one last time, Jay. That's all I ask. The final bust."

Staring at Captain Ramirez, I didn't falter, trying my hardest not to take this on for the 'last' time. I knew I had to. I committed to this undercover investigation and I couldn't back out without suspicions being drawn. Releasing the countless sigh of the day, I nodded, unlocking the phone where I saw several texts and calls from Tony over the last two days. "Okay, I'll do it."

Later that day...​

Unlocking the door to Amelia's apartment, I released a laugh when Roo was the first to greet me, throwing herself on me while I had to catch my balance or I would've fell over. The boxer wasn't the size of a puppy like when Amelia first got her anymore. She could knock just about anyone down but she has yet to succeed in knocking me over.

"Hi Roo, where's your mother?" I asked her, petting behind her ears like I knew she liked before I shut the door and threw my keys on the table right by the door, walking further in. The silence in the apartment was eerily too much and made my skin crawl. "Amelia?" I called out, automatically assuming the worst considering what I agreed to go back into earlier this morning. With my hand on my holster, I walked to her room quietly, opening the door. Upon seeing her curled into a ball asleep on her bed, I let out the breath I had been holding before I walked over to her and kissed her forehead, smiling when she groaned in protest. "You're fine. Go back to sleep. I'm going to shower."

Taking off my equipment belt, I grabbed some grey sweatpants and a t-shirt from her closet, walking to the bathroom where I turned on the shower and got in, letting the warm water consume me and my thoughts.

You know this is dangerous, Jay. Alfonso seemed like he had caught on that I wasn't who I said I was and that will bite me in the ass. Once he tells Tony his theory, I'm dead, no matter how close Tony thinks he and I are because I saved his life. I need to tell Amelia but right now I can't. It would put her in more danger than her not knowing. After we bust this group I'll tell her, especially if I decide to stay in this afterwards. I never saw myself doing undercover narcotics but I can't say that I don't enjoy it because I do.

Feeling arms wrap around my body, I tensed, instantly relaxing when I realized it was Amelia. I was so consumed by my thoughts that I didn't realize she came into the shower with me. Smirking down at her I turned around, tucking her now wet hair behind her ear before I kissed her forehead.

"Hi love, I told you to stay asleep. What did you do today?"

 

[Lexus]

Amelia​

Being back in the newsroom for a week now, I had once again reacclimated to the chaos. it was bizarre but to an outsider but I did miss the stress and craziness on the floor. It always fed my adrenaline rush and challenged my competence. and being the competitive perfectionist I was, this was the perfect environment to thrive in. For my first assignment back, I I covered a recent murder trial that not to my surprise made it above the fold to attract more readers. After submitting for deadline, I remained at my desk for close to another 12 hours, helping ensure everything was finished for print, essentially playing the part of an editor without getting paid for it now that Karen knew I was willing and capable, I still hadn't answered her on whether I considered applying for the open position, mostly because I was still scared of accepting it and settling here at the AP as a consequence. I still felt trapped but didn't give myself much time to think about it.

After slaving over headlines and unedited articles, I made it home in record time, though I don't remember what time it actually was by the time I made it to bed.

When Jayden made it in, I groaned grumpily in protest at him trying to wake me, but once I realized he was home, I made my way out of the warmth of my comforter and into the shower with him. Over the course of our relationship, we learned with each of our demanding schedules, time spent together was rare and far from frequent, so any alone time I could have with Jayden, I took, even if it meant losing sleep. We were both slaves to our work and as time went on, I knew that wasn't going to change as both of us continued to climb the ladder.

Wrapping my arms around his neck, I smiled at his gentle touch that seemed so contradictory to his build, but I continued to bask in it, knowing it was only for me.

"Hmm, why would I sleep when you're here, sergeant ? " Leaning into him I kissed him as a tease before I answered his question in a deep sigh. "Just finished another grueling deadline day, nothing too exciting, but do we really have to talk about work right now?" I whined, trailing my fingers up his chest. "This is the first time I've seen you in three days and you really want to waste it on work? I think you can come up with something better."

 

[isax]

Jayden​

And the Vix strikes again.

Grinning at Amelia's whining, I focused on the fingers that trailed up my chest, leaning down to give her the same teasing kiss she had just given me, slowly moving us to where she was against the wall and my hands were holding up her thin body for support. "I may have something in mind," I said with that grin I knew drove her crazy, moving to close the space between us again before I kissed her for the third time since I was home, deepening it the minute I was given the chance while my hands began to move up and down her sides before I moved to start planting soft kisses against her neck.

"You really are a Vixen." I whispered in her ear before I kissed below it, grinning contently at the reaction I got from her. After that, I spent my shower time focusing on the stunning woman I was blessed to have in my life, satisfying her in any way that I could for now, the steam from the hot water adding to the actions we were doing. It definitely helped me unwind after the long day I just had down at the precinct.

With a towel wrapped around my waist, I ran another one through my hair in an attempt to dry it, smiling as I watched Amelia do the same. After she dried it as best as she could, I motioned for her to come closer and I brushed out her hair, something I learned I enjoyed doing. It seemed to calm her and anything that could get her to just relax was worth it.

"Considering I found you curled into a ball when I got here, I'm assuming you didn't eat dinner. Do you want to go out or get something delivered?" I asked her before I set the brush back on the counter after I finished getting the knots out of her hair, "How are the Texans doing? Has Dawson gotten home sick yet?"

I'm not going to lie, I knew Dawson helping Isabel move to the valley this week was going to be quite the experience for the hardcore cowboy. From what Isabel said, the new area she called home was a mini Mexico and I wasn't sure how Dawson would take to that, especially when he realized how close his significant other was living to the border.

Brownsville, Texas
Isabel​

My second home. It feels more than amazing to be back.

As we passed through Harlingen, I became more and more excited to be back in the area that I practically grew up in. When I was younger and my first anchor was still around, coming down to the valley every weekend was something I got used to, something I looked forward to. My grandpa was born and raised in this area, more specifically San Benito, Texas where one of his sisters still lived. Before my other tias moved, this was the place to be on the weekends. The place to bond with family, watch my tios and tias get drunk in my Tio Pancho's handmade bar behind his house. Now that I think about it, all the men seemed to have a thing for making a family area outside there house. My grandpa did the same except that one was mainly where the familia drank beer, smoked and watched football.

Refreshing memories.

Glancing over at Dawson, I could tell he wasn't phased with what he saw the through windows so far, but with every major city was a rich area, and Harlingen was exactly that, the rich area, the area I knew the cowboy would feel most comfortable in. Too bad you're practically taking him into Mini Mexico. I continued to sing along to the song playing from my bluetooth, following the last stretch of directions on my phone before we arrived at Las Palmas apartments, my temporary home for now while I chased this story. Was I crazy? Maybe but I was more than ready for this.

"Bienvenidos a mi nuevo casa," I said while pushing the door open to my new one bedroom apartment, taking note of the size and how it looked. The apartment complex I chose to live in was similar to the one I did in Dallas. Funny how both were based in the barrio. These complexes were always the cheapest option and considering I wasn't going to be taking in a steady income, I had to live like I did in college. On yet another budget.

"Let's start bringing everything in."

After bringing in the bed, dresser, and smaller furniture, I helped Dawson bring in the remaining boxes. Releasing a soft sigh after setting the last one on the floor, I looked at Dawson and noticed he hadn't uttered a sound since we got here. It instantly sent me into a panic and I grabbed his hands in mine, filling the gap between us before I wrapped my arms around his neck. "What's going on in your head?" I asked him softly, kissing him gently before I pulled away. "You haven't said much. Are you alright? Is this a lot for you to take in?"

If I said I would've been okay if Dawson didn't come with me to the valley, I would be lying. I was glad he was here, especially because at the end of the week, I would be taking him to the airport and he would fly back to the city I would always love. We were going to be miles away and after spending an entire year apart, I wasn't sure I was ready for this long distance relationship. They sucked more than anything in life.

 

[Lexus]

Amelia​

Pulling the towel tighter around myself, I looked back at myself in the bathroom mirror while Jayden spoke. I couldn't help but laugh as he attempted to carry on a casual conversation like he didn't just make love to me. Smirking at him fro, the mirror while I put my diamond earrings he gave me for our first anniversary.

"So that's what you think about right after all of that?" Sighing dramatically, I walked past him as a tease while going to the closet to pick something to wear. He offered to take me out and I wasn't going to decline after the day I had, and I could tell by how tense he was a few minutes ago, he wasn't having the best day either. "I guess that means I didn't get the job done," Shrugging my shoulders casually as he followed after me. When he protested, I giggled again.

"I get it, you're worried about Dawson, but trust me, Isabel isn't going to let anything happen to him, and if he really wants a second chance with her, he needs to get over the culture shock. That's part of who she is, "I said while slipping into a black long-sleeve dress with a keyhole back, smiling when Jayden zipped it without me having to ask. Turning around to face him, I planted a kiss on his jawline and took a moment to gaze into his eyes;

"I'm happy they're working it out, but I really just want what little time I have with you to be about us. I don't even remember the last time I saw you not in your uniform. Spend the night with me, please?"

After confronting each other about our separated grief from the miscarriage, we both threw each other into our work as a way to cope, because it's all we knew how to do, but now, I wanted to work on us. I wanted us to come out of this stronger, and maybe, I could finally get Jayden to agree to take me to meet his family. He already met mine, and it was no surprise that they adored him. Any man who could put up with me they all agreed was worthy of their praise. It took a lot of pressure off my shoulders, but I still feel like our relationship wouldn't reach it's peak until Jayden showed me the most important part of his life I still remained clueless to. I talked to his mom a couple times on the phone, but it was always brief and almost awkward.

Slipping my white heels on while Jayden was finding something to wear, I took to putting on my usual minimal amount of makeup for our spontaneous outing, Foundation, concealer, mascara, eyeliner, and a classic red lipstick. I had no suggestion on where to go but I hoped, by the way I dressed, Jayden would come up with something.

Dawson​

I couldn't say I ever been in a place like Brownsville, but I wasn't surprised by Isabel's move here. I could tell by her reflections on this place, it meant as much to her as Fort Worth was for me. It wasn't until I stepped foot in Isabel's past I became fully conscious of just how different we were from each other. I couldn't fathom ever living in a place like this, in a small cramped apartment, and enjoying it for what it was, but that was one of the many reasons I loved Isabel. because she opened up my perspectives on a world I didn't grow up in. I thought I knew a lot about the typical lifestyle that wasn't like mine, flashy and over comfortable, but this experience of practically leaving the woman I loved at the border, where her safety wasn't completely guaranteed and her means were small and far between, I realized there was so much about other people's lives I never considered or understood.

I was uncomfortable at the thought of leaving her here, but if she was okay with it, then I didn't have a choice but to be okay too. I wasn't going to try to pretend like I knew what was best for her and lose her again, it wasn't worth it.

It wasn't until Isabel approached me about my silence that I realized I was silent at all. Shaking my head, I planted a gentle kiss on her lips.

"I'm okay, amor, I promise. I'm happy you're doing this for yourself," I whispered, clasping her hand with mine. "I'm proud of you. But if you ever need anything while you're here, you know I'd be happy to help."

 

[isax]

Jayden​

Watching Amelia get dressed up, I bit my lip at her choice, going to the closet that now had more of my clothes than my actual closet, trying to pick out something to go with what she chose to wear. I wasn't expecting her to want to go out, especially considering I found her dead asleep when I just here, but I knew our time together was valuable and shouldn't be wasted. After we talked out the miscarriage, I threw myself into my work and she did the same. We hardly had time to be together now, and when we did one of us was either sleeping or we both decided to just stay in. Knowing she got dressed so beautifully, I couldn't let that go to waste so I was formulating a plan on the spot while I picked out clothes for myself.

Settling on black slacks and a light blue button up, I listened to her explain that Isabel was going to take care of Dawson, chuckling when she mentioned she would rather focus on us when we had so little time together. Walking over to her while buttoning up my shirt, I leaned down and kissed the back of her neck teasingly before I kissed the top of her head.

"Okay, I'll spend the night," I said gently before pulling away and rolling up the sleeves of my shirt, cuffing them when I felt they were high enough. Smiling at the love of my life through the reflection of the mirror, I chuckled when we couldn't tear our gazes away from each other. Winking I finished getting the necessities done: my hair, my shoes, my cologne and making sure my wallet was in my back pocket. When I was ready to go, I sat on the bed and watched Amelia as she finished getting ready.

Looking at Amelia when she stood in front of me, I took her hands in mine, sighing contently as I realized all over again this stunning woman before me was my girl.

"You look stunning. Are you ready to go?"

Isabel​

"I know amor, I do. I'll be alright. Promise."

I knew Dawson's offer to help if I ever needed anything while I was here was genuine, but I couldn't stop myself from being slightly bothered by it. I knew he didn't mean it the way my brain registered it, but asking for help was the last thing I planned on doing. Struggling was nothing new to me and I knew the minute I decided to make this move I might struggle again. You'll be fine. Just budget your money, sis.

Smiling at Dawson, I kissed him one more time before pulling away, knowing everything was a lot for him to take in and he just wasn't ready to open up to me about it yet. Letting it go, I kneeled in front of a box set in my tiny living room, pulling out the canvases from it and placing them on the couch I brought with me.

"Help me unpack the living room boxes and then I'll take you to eat any my favorite restaurant here," I said softly to the cowboy, giggling when he came over to help with the canvases and then helped me put them on the walls afterwards. When I felt like the living room was enough, I released a soft sigh when I felt him hug me from behind, closing my eyes as I relished his embrace. "I don't want you to leave this weekend. Being away is going to be hard. I picked a pretty shitty time to move, huh? I'm sorry."

 

[Lexus]

Amelia​

"Yes, let's go," I said pulling Jayden to his feet, where are we going, love? Hopefully not a gondola." Of course, I was only teasing Jayden. From the beginning, I always appreciated and adored the sentiment Jayden put into our first date when I was still playing hesitant to protect myself from getting my hopes up. The truth was, I did have a crush on the officer the entire time we were passing passive notes back and forth, but the moment I felt he caught on to my "innocent" flirting I ran away, terrified at the thought of romantically letting a man in my life. I was too afraid of settling and getting hurt to consider what would come out of letting Jayden in, and now that I had, I was eternally grateful I did. I knew he loved me for me, and the fulfillment that gave me was indescribable. I knew I loved him.

Turning to face him, I planted a countless kiss on his lips and wrapped my dainty arms around his figure, taking in the scent of his cologne that brought me a sense calm, reminding me I was safe and secure in his presence.

"Mmm, thank you for spending your time with me. I love you, "

Dawson​

"I don't want to leave you either, but you need to do this for yourself before we decide anything for ourselves. There is no better time than the present to do the one thing you've always wanted to do for yourself, I'm not angry, I promise," I whispered running my fingers through her naturally curly hair. "You do what you need to do here and I'll be at home waiting for you to come back, okay? I want you to do this. I want to tell everyone you're a badass for chasing the story that everyone else is too afraid of. I know you can do it and I admire you for it."

 

[isax]

Jayden​

Amelia was never going to let me live down the fact that I took her out on a gondola for our first date, not knowing she had a fear of boats. I knew she was only teasing, and would tease about it for the rest of our lives, but I tried making up for that every other date night we went on because she was worth that effort and so much more. I never thought I would be here, in her apartment, taking her out yet again for a date. I never thought I would have a key to her apartment, practically living here when I wasn't at my own. Amelia was unlike any other woman I had met before and I am the lucky one out of this relationship because I get to call her my girl, my everything.

Smiling as she kissed me for the countless, I wrapped my arms around her waist while I stared into those beautiful eyes that saw every secret and detail of life hidden behind my own. Kissing her one last time, I grinned when I finally pieced the last idea for out night out in the city.

"I love you more. There's no need for thanking me. You're my girl and you deserve a wonderful night out in the city considering we haven't seen each other in three days. I have the perfect idea in mind. Let's go." I whispered softly, taking her hand in mine before I walked out of her apartment with her, leading her to the car after I locked the door. Once we were both inside, I started my BMW and held her hand in mine, a simple action that I adored, before taking off and heading to our dinner destination.

When we arrived, I knew Amelia was going to be rather intrigued. Trinity Groves was a part of Dallas we had never been to much, and I remembered a really amazing Italian restaurant out here that Captain mentioned awhile back after taking his wife here. He said they loved the view and the food was amazing so I figured now was more than a better time to venture out and try something new. Despite how used to routine Amelia was, I knew she secretly loved to find new places.

Helping her out of the car, I walked beside her, hand-in-hand, to the front of Saint Rocco's New York Italian. Chuckling as she took the cute restaurant in while we were inside, I walked to the hostess and asked for a table for two, letting Amelia walk in front of me when the waitress lead us to our table.

"So, what do you think?" I asked while I pulled out her chair for her before I sat across from her.

Isabel​

Dawson continued to surprise me the longer we were in my second home. I originally thought he was going to experience a massive wave of culture shock, knowing this area, this city, was far too different from what he was used to, and I knew my apartment choice wasn't the best, but it was the cheapest. As long as it provided a roof over my head, that's all that mattered. Smiling while he ran his hand through my knotted curly hair, I slowly turned around and wrapped my arms around his neck, my smile never fading.

"Te amo siempre, Dawson. No sabes how much this means to me. This story needs to be chased, and I promise I'll come back to you after I know everyone's voice is heard. Are you sure you're willing to wait for me?" I asked softly, giggling like a little girl with her first love when he assured me I was worth the wait. "When I get back to Dallas, we'll start focusing on us, what our future will be and I can't wait because you are my future."

Giving him yet another kiss, I pulled away and grabbed my purse, releasing a content sigh at the small progress we made in decorating my living room. I had him all to myself this week before he went back up north and I wasn't going to let our time together go to waste.

"Let's go grab a bite to eat? Maybe I can take you down memory lane after." I wonder if Tia Maru would give me the key to the house.