We could already see the flashing lights as we slowly approached the venue of the movie premiere. The vehicle we were riding on fell into line with the other cars that held various important personalities in them.

Adam stared outside the window with amazement, allowing everything to sink in.

At the very end of the line, somebody opened the car door of one of the vehicles and a celebrity stepped out. The camera that was behind a fence started to click their cameras, focusing their lens at the new star that arrived.

“Wow,” Adam breathed out as our car started to approach the very end.

I gripped his hand in mine and gave him a comforting smile, “If you don’t want to, we can go back.”

He shook his head, squeezing my hand, “I don’t want to ruin your night.”

Nodding, I allowed him to take deep breaths as we were only a car away before we had to step outside.

Ever since this morning, the excitement that Adam had been feeling quickly melted into nervousness. Instead of being jumpy because of glee, he was frozen due to the anxiety he was feeling. I repeated to him a thousand times that we can ditch the premiere, but he still insisted that we should go.

I’m prepared to drag his body out of there if ever he faints.

We finally came into stop, and the photographers are getting their cameras ready for whoever is in this vehicle. It was always a hit and miss during red carpet events, the heavily tinted windows concealed the inside of the car, the people outside doesn’t know who’s riding it.

A man reached out and opened the car door and flashes of light started to erupt. Adam got out and just like a proper gentleman, he reached out a hand to help me get outside of the vehicle.

The man who opened the door smile warmly at us, “Welcome, please enjoy your night,” he closed the door and gestured to the driver that he can go now.

“What do I do?” Adam gulped as he eyes the amount of photographers and reporters in front of us. Looping my arm with his, I took a deep breath as I plastered a smile.

“Just have a good time,” I whispered, praying that he started to relax.

His movements were stiff as we started to walk the red carpet, stopping at a spot in front of the photographers.

Adam smiled – well, attempted to – I could see his lips quivering, and I let out a quiet sigh.

If he’s too worried about worrying my night, he should just let that idea slip. Doesn’t he know that the only way for me to enjoy this is if he’s also happy?

I’ll gladly sacrifice a night of being glammed up for a comfortable time with him on the couch as we pigged out while we watch a bunch of rented movies.

I just want to see him smile, and not the way he’s doing right now.

“Can we get some solo shots, Heart?” a man asked from the crowd. Adam instantly paled at the idea of being left alone on the side as I was getting my picture taken.

Not happening!

When he made a move to pull his arm away, I lifted my other hand and laid it on top of his arm. I pretended not to hear what the man requested as I stared up at my best friend.

He looked down on me, ready to tell me what the photographer had asked.

“You know that I’m never leaving you,” I whispered, giving a small encouraging smile.

Something in those words made him relax. The muscles in his body was one stiff with nervousness started to loosen up. Those eyes that were once filled with anxiousness was now twinkling with a new emotion. His lips quirked into a smile, not the fake one he had on since the start of the night, but a full on happy one that had me weak at the knees.

“Thank you,” he mouthed, that smile still present on his lips.

When we knew our time being out here with the cameras were done, we started to move further down the red carpet. The few reporters that were permitted to go through the fence were finding celebrities they can interview.

A woman interviewing Axel saw me and she instantly perked up. She muttered some words to her assistant and the said girl made her way to approach me.

“Hello Heart,” she said politely, “Would you mind if we call you over for an interview?”

Eyeing the mischievous look that the reporter was sending our way, I knew this would just end up with trouble. The thing is, asking for permission was just formalities, and they all knew that I would agree to this interview.

Turning to Adam, I transferred her question to him, “Do you mind?”

Everything that we’re going to do for this night will be all on his decisions.

He shook his head and we started to follow the girl to where the camera man, the interviewer, and Axel was standing.

“And look who’s coming this way,” the reporter gave a fake gasp, “Hollywood’s Princess and her wonderful date.”

Date.

Axel stepped a little to the side so all four of us could fit into the shot. The reporter smiled brightly at all of us before clearing her throat.

“I was just asking Axel here who among the stars gathered here today, is the one closest to him,” she told me before turning to Axel. She pointed her mic into his direction and waited for him to answer, “So, who is this person?”

He eyed me carefully before gently lifting his hand and jutting his thumb to my direction, “Her.”

The woman made a small squeal and I lifted a brow at Axel. Though, I can’t deny that’s it not the same for me. We may fight a lot, but out of all the celebrities in this town, I spent the most time with him.

“And you, Heart?”

Doing the same gesture, I pointed at Axel, “Him.”

“You two will make a lovely couple,” she gushed, “But for the looks of it, Heart here already found her lucky guy.”

Adam perked once he noticed that her words were now directed to him. He straightened up and zipped his mouth shut, refusing to say a word.

Giggling at his shyness, I hugged his arm and turned to the woman, “I think I’m the lucky one.”

The reporter cooed at my statement, “You two are adorable!”

And that was when Adam finally spoke, “Nope, I’m the lucky one.”

“No, I am!” I protested, staring up at him.

“I am,” he said with finality.

“Oh God,” Axel rolled his eyes. Come on, just because this thing is serious doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have any fun.

Besides, Adam is finally loosening up.

“Jealous,” I teased lightheartedly, poking his side. He jumped up a little before shooting me a glare.

Down boy, we’re still in front of the camera; wait until we get inside before you start insulting me.

“Well, I hope all of you enjoy your night,” the interviewer finally said, thanking us before rushing to where Claudia was standing.

Axel and I shared a dry look before I lifted my nose and started to walk with Adam to the inside of the theatre.

Cameras off, playful relationship, also off.

We took the seats that was reserved for us, and guess what, Mr. Axel Brooks ended up on the spot next to me. Thankfully, Adam proved to be a wonderful distraction as the movie went on.

Resting my head on his shoulder midway through the movie, I whispered to strike up a conversation, “Would you be there for my movie premiere?”

He tilted his head until it was leaning on mine and answered me softly, “If you want me to.”

“I always want you to be here,” I told him, nothing but sincerity in my voice.

“What if I’m in England when that happened?”

Just another harsh reminder that after this summer, he’ll be going to England to attend university. Though, thinking about the years that we spent apart, we still called each other our best friend. I know that he had a lot of people he hangs out back in England, but instead of spending time with them, he’s here with me.

Yup, I’m extremely lucky.

“The Atlantic Ocean never became a hurdle to the both us before,” I said, my eyes focusing on the screen. I felt him smile as he buried his nose in my hair.

“True,” he admitted.

The movie ended which earned a standing ovation from the crowd. I joined in and after a speech from the director and the lead actors, we were given the signal that it was safe to leave.

“Just saying,” Axel said, shrugging on the coat of his suit, “This wasn’t a romantic movie for the both of you to go mushy on each other.”

Glaring at him, I crossed my arms over my chest, “What is it to you, Brooks?”

“Nothing, Valentine,” he grumbled, ready to start another argument.

“That’s enough,” Adam interrupted, wrapping an arm around my waist, “It has been a tiring night, let’s not fight.”

He switched his gaze from me to Adam, shaking his head as he turned to leave, “See you at the after party, Valentine.”

“I hope not,” I snorted, sticking out my tongue childishly.

It was less hectic when we got out. We got into our car and the driver was set to transport us to where the after party was being held.

Adam threw his head back with a groan, “More of this!”

Eyeing him from the corner of my eyes, I asked him, “Want to take a break?”

As if I needed to ask, the look on his face was a clear signal that he didn’t want to head to the party just yet. Leaning forward, I whispered something into our driver’s ear. He gave me a weird look but I just nodded, gesturing for him to go along with my request.

And that is how we ended up at this diner. It was half empty, aside from the few costumers. It was perfect, there were no hungry eyes waiting for gossip.

The waitress didn’t seem the bit phased when Adam and I entered looking so spiff. I assumed that a lot of people came here during the late hours, looking for a place of peace and quiet. Besides, we’re in Hollywood where most people are just wanting a bit of time to relieve stress.

So instead of the fancy catering I know the producers of the movie hired, we’re here with some burger and fries, laughing at the most random things in the world.

“You kneed Axel the first time you met?” he snickered as I retold the story how Axel and I started to become enemies.

“He was acting so damn smug,” I defended, “He knew just how to push my buttons.”

“And he’s been there by your side ever since,” he finished, popping a fry into his mouth.

“Sadly,” I groaned, “But you know what, I don’t regret meeting him.”

Do I hate Axel? Yes. Did I want him out of my life? Sometimes. Did I regret that I ever came across him? No.

“I’m glad to know that I’m not going to hear any news of you murdering him,” he joked, “But I’m not letting him take my best friend.”

Oh my dear, Adam, nobody’s taking me away from you. I’ll always be by your side.

“A toast?” he asked, lifting up his chocolate milkshake like it was champagne. I smiled, grabbing my own and clinking it with his.

This is something much better than a fancy shmancy after party.

When I knew we were ready to face those snooty celebrities once again, we drove to the venue of the after party. Several paparazzi were outside, trying to catch shots of any loose celebrities. Thanks to a wonderful security team, we got inside without any problems.

The place was packed with heels clacking, music blaring, people dancing, friends chatting, and a lot more things going on.

“Valentine!” we heard Axel as he started to approach us, “Dance with me.”

“What?” I snapped, but he took my hand and dragged me away from Adam. I shot my best friend an apologetic look, but Adam only gestured for me to have fun.

“You better have a darn good reason for pulling me away,” I gritted out.

Honestly, I’m considering of repeating my actions of what I did when we first met.

“The girl I like,” he yelled over the music and that’s when I became interested. We had a silent pact, he’ll help me out with Adam if I help him with this girl he has a crush on, whoever that chick is.

“What happened?” I asked, throwing my arms to the beat of the music.

“She doesn’t like me,” he said, sadness seeping through his voice.

“Did you ask her?”

“No,” was his quickly reply.

Just like what I was thinking before, we were both cowards.

Of course, when it comes to love, nobody’s safe. Even this annoying Hollywood’s Prince. Grabbing his hand, I told him to dance as I tried to formulate a reply to his statement.

“Pretend I’m her,” I said to him, twirling around, “Imagine she’s the one you’re dancing with, how would you move?”

He held my hand and pulled me to him. He place his hand on my waist and allowed my hand to settle on his shoulder. Good, we’re making progress; by the end of the summer, I would have told Adam and he would have a girlfriend.

It’s a win-win situation, he’s happy and the rumors spreading around about us being a couple will finally disappear.

Reaching out, I pushed his head down so he would look at me, “Now stare into my eyes, and imagine my eyes are hers.”

He nodded, gazing deeply in mine. My focus was on his brown ones, memorizing the shade of its color.

“When you think the time is right,” I told him, swaying us to the music, “Say it to her.”

“I love you,” he said automatically, like reflex. It was like he was waiting for the go-signal to confess. Ah, young love!

Leaning up, I pressed my lips on his cheek. I hope it gives him a little encouragement as he was still pretending that I was the girl he had feelings for. He froze, completely still, I swear, he’s not even breathing. I reached out and lightly slapped his cheek, just to bring him back to the real world.

“Very good,” I smiled, finally getting out of his hold, “Now follow those steps and you’re good to go.”

 “And if she rejects me?” he repeated his fear.

“Grow a pair and ask her out,” I urged him, “Besides, the Axel Brooks I know would be so confident of himself.”

“She’s beginning to make me run for my money,” he mumbled and I couldn’t help but laugh.

Whoever this chick is who is making the all and mighty Axel Brooks worked up like this, I like her already.

“Well then,” I said, starting to back away, “Good luck with her.”

Turning on my heel, I gave him my final goodbye before I went to find Adam. I saw him flustered at the middle of a group of girls, firing question after question at him.

Back off, ladies, that’s my man.

I ran up to him and jumped on his back, taking him by surprise. Thankfully, his arms reached out to his back and supported my weight with on them. My feet were lifted off the ground as I wound my arms around his shoulders.

“Hey!” I said to him and he looked at me, relieved that I was finally back.

“Hi,” he greeted softly.

“Oh so you’re with Heart,” one of the girls said which I recognized as somebody I was once co-stars with.

“Mine,” I teased, resting my chin on his shoulder. Adam chuckled, his body slightly shaking when he did so.

Gosh, I can hear him do that all day.

“So lucky,” the girl tsked, taking a sip of her cocktail, “Not only do you have him, but you also have Axel going after you.”

Tilting my head to the side, I gave her a look to deny her speculations, “Axel is not pursuing me.”

She and her friends shared a look before they started giggling. Alright, is there a joke somewhere that I missed?

“Honey, everybody in this room can see it,” she wagged her finger, “Except you, it seems.”

Impossible, Axel already has a girl she likes. She’s a celebrity, she should know the pain of being shipped to somebody you like so she shouldn’t be joking about this matter.

She waved her hand goodbye as she and her little groupie went out on their way.

“I’m confused,” I muttered to Adam.

He turned his head slightly to look at me before giving me a smile, “Don’t trouble yourself with it,” he assured, “Now, why am I suddenly giving you a piggy back ride?”

“Because I want you to,” I replied simply, moving my hands so I can grip his shoulders for support.

He adjusted me in his arms before shaking his head as he let out a laugh, “You know I can never say no to you.”

Looking down shyly, I said under my breath, “I know.”

I also know that there’s a limit to his statement. Would he still agree when I say that I love him?

------------------------

We pulled through! Recap of the past two weeks? It was fun, with a bit of scandals, but fun nonetheless. It made me a little guilty to see younger students cry but I was just doing my job, I didn't mean for them to cry... don't ask what that is.

Dedicated to @bleeding-royalty for the cover on the side, thank you so much. If you have made and sent me a cover, don't worry, you'll get a dedication just wait for your turn. 

Speaking of covers, do you like the new one? I know, even I prefer the old one, but at least now, you guys will stop pestering me with the fact Sophia is blonde but the girl on the cover is a brunette.

I'm loving both Adam and Axel right now, my heart is torn. Speaking of which, the number of ship names you guys came out with is insane!

Question: If you can write the next chapter, what would happen?

Yes, I'm asking that question because I have writer's block, don't kill me!

Vote, comment and follow. Love you guys and I'll see you all next chapter.