My eyes bounce back and forth between the guest room door and the stairs. Making my way into the kitchen, mom's already sitting down, sipping on her favorite mug. When she catches sight of me, she makes her way to the microwave to reveal my breakfast plate but I don't have the appetite. Coffee is fine for now.

I'd give anything to have Harry wake up and join me, to hold my hand during this anticipated conversation. At least outside it's sunny and cheerful, I wish I could say the same for this room.

"Did you have a good time last night?" she begins.

"It was alright, I guess... Mom, please tell me now, are you and dad separating?" I blurt out, pushing my cup to the side.

"Jude, no! Honey, whatever would possess you to think such a thing?"

"Harry overheard you guys say something but he didn't want me to worry. I couldn't help it, I thought the worst!"

"Trust me. Your father and I love each other very much. And if he ever leaves me, it'll be over my dead body," she laughs. "Ask him and he will tell you the same thing."

"That's a relief! What did you want to tell me then?"

"Well, aunt Maggie came to visit me while you were away, she shared some rather disturbing news... it turns out she has grade 3 Endometrial Cancer. That's cancer in her uterus."

"How long has she had this? Is that why she's never been able to have children?"

"The doctors say it's a definite possibility, but since they found it at the worst stage. . . it's incurable."

"How is she doing? Is she in pain?" I can't fathom the severity of her situation.

"She has minor back aches and cramps but aside from that she's a strong woman. Her main concern was to warn me. . . it's hereditary."

"What does that mean, mom?" I knew what it meant but I was afraid of where she was going with this.

"Because it's genetic, I went to get tested."

"That's why you've been acting strange lately. What were the results?"

"There's no sign of cancerous cells but they did find small traces of tissue growth around my cervix. They aren't malign but I still have to get frequent check ups in case it spreads."

"Will you be okay?"

"I'll be fine, but it's not me I'm worried about..."

"You're worried about ME?"

"Until you go to my OB/GYN and get scanned for Endometriosis, we can't rest assured just yet."

"When should I go?"

"As soon as possible, we can try to make the appointment today or tomorrow?"

"Harry is going to L.A. for a few days..."

"That will be perfect! But it would be better to wait till you got the results back before sharing this with him."

"We did agree that I should see a gynecologist to discuss a few things."

"That's fine. I just don't want him to worry if it isn't necessary."

"Alright, I'll tell him to leave tomorrow. Then we'll have the results by the time he gets back, right?"

"Yes, I'm going to call and make the appointment now."

"Mom...should I be worried?"

"Worrying solves nothing, sweetheart. Why don't you just go and enjoy your day with Harry, it'll take your mind off the exam."

I nod slowly, letting it all sink in, as I drink my room temperature coffee. My stomach is in knots. I feel awful for my grand-aunt but knowing that they found some traces in my mom, I can't help wonder if I have some too.

Each step I take up the stairs is heavier than the last. It's weird to think that something could be wrong with my body and I don't even know it, judging from the outside. I ponder on any signs I might have missed. The only thing that comes to mind is the sporadic spotting. They weren't as frequent, therefore I thought I had no cause for alarm.

Shutting the door behind me, I stand before my elongated mirror. I lift my shirt and pull the front of my sweats down to observe my pale belly. It looks so normal...and pudgy. What could be going on in there? I turn sideways, still observing as though at any moment I would spot something different. Still nothing.

The door opens and through my mirror I see Harry poke his head inside. He scowls a moment once he notices what I'm doing. His curiosity leads him in to further observe my stance. He's dressed in his running attire with a beanie in his hand. I wonder what he must think of this scenario.

"Everythin' aright?" he asks and sits on the bed just behind where I'm standing.

I spin around, dropping my hands to my sides, and confront his inquiring eyes. My recent conversation with my mother is on the tip of my tongue, ready to spill. I want to tell him but I can't. She's right. If I tell him, he'll worry and refuse to leave to L.A.. I belly dive over the bed and playfully suffocate my face on a pillow.

"I didn't get that. What was your answer?"

"Yes. Everything is fine," I muffle into the soft cushion.

"Heyyy," Harry leans next to me and pulls at my waist to turn me over. "Why are you hidin' from me?"

"We talked."

"You and your mum?"

"Yes," I roll onto my back and lay my hands over my stomach. "She just gave me some sad news about my grand-aunt...she has cancer."

"God. I'm sorry, Jude."

"It's all so very depressing. Let's not talk about it anymore shall we... Are you off for a run?"

"I was gonna see if you wanted to join me..."

"Be honest. You were checking to see if I was hung over," I perk my brows up at him waiting for him to admit it.

"That too," he chuckles and shows me those innocent dimples.

"Go and enjoy your run. I'm going to try to get a head start on the band's update I have due for Monday."

"You sure? Fresh air will do you good," he persuades me, but it's not going to work.

"I'm positive. Go!"

Harry's lips reach over to bless my forehead before his feet touch the ground. I hope he doesn't suspect anything, it's not like I'm lying... Honestly, I intend on doing some work and an extensive research on this Endometriosis. I must prepare and educate myself on this matter since it seems like it will be in our lives for the long haul.

"I'm glad that's over with. See, you were worried about your parents for nothin'. But I am sorry about the news," Harry displays a sorrowful smile as his hand turns the door knob.

"Hey Harry," I sit up and watch him pause to look at me. "I'd like to try one more time tonight... in the car."

I turn on my timid bedroom eyes in hopes that he will put all the pieces together. At first he scowls to think and in seconds it hits him as his face turns mischievous.Nodding, he grins and backs away. I desperately want to enjoy the rest of my day with him, though I fear if I begin this research it will weigh heavy on my mind for the rest of the night. It would be wiser to wait till he leaves for L.A.

---

I get off the phone with Troy after conversing for over an hour. He's spoken with the rest of the band which is fortunate for me; three birds with one stone. I hear the ridiculous updates of Billy's whereabouts and the little that he knows from Zac is what Kaycee has shared with him. As far as what's going on with him personally, we couldn't get into for Kaycee was near by. Guess I'll have to wait till I see him again to get the details.

By now it's been two hours since Harry's left. Where on earth did he run to, Flagstaff? Better make use of my time and shower. These legs are getting stubby and other areas need trimming. I ritually take my pill and grab a fresh towel on my way to the bathroom. Listening for voices as I cross rooms, there's nothing but silence.

How do I keep my mind from worrying? That's what I'd really like to know because right now I'm stressing about not stressing. Even the thought of Harry leaving tomorrow is beginning to sadden my spirit. God, am I that attached to him that I simply can't breathe or exist without him near? I perish the thought of us eversplitting, then I really wouldn't know what to do with myself. Perhaps a nunnery would be my only solution.

Walking back to my room, wrapped in a towel, I pick comfortable over stylish clothes. Dressing in a beige and black striped shirt with coral leggings and my black flats, I'm reminded it's time to get another pair. Still, I could never throw these shoes away, they've been with me to London and back. And they've been with me for every unforgettable moment with Harry.

I reminisce about these times with him; when we went sight seeing, strolled through the street market, went to that art gallery and stayed in L.A. as well. It's hard to believe so much has happened in a little over two months. I finally graduated for heaven's sake! And now... a crucial and unexpected exam awaits me tomorrow.

"Hey babe-oh you look lovely," Harry interrupts my thoughts, looking just as lovely. "Your mum has lunch ready down stairs, I'll be right back."

"You're leaving again?" I pout.

"It'll be quick, I promise," his accent lingers as he's just about to close the door.

"Wait, aren't you forgetting something?" I set down my hair brush.

"Uhh...I love you," he smiles cheekily and exits.

I sigh, missing his sweet heart lips. Just as I'm grabbing my brush again my door swings open. Harry rushes towards me, like he's done times before, and cups my face. I smile the moment our mouths meet as I allow him to rob me of the air in my lungs. I fist his shirt in my hands, unwilling to let him escape again. Then the passion comes to a halt... temporarily. It was perfect while it lasted.

"Tonight?" he asks, captivating me with his majestic lime-green eyes.

"Tonight," I nod and bite my bottom lip.

I walk out after him, watching him run out the door. Mom is in the kitchen and here we are again, alone with our little secret. I should ask her about the appointment but there's an internal struggle to talk or not talk about it.

"You are set for tomorrow morning," she interjects.

"Oh. Okay. Where's dad?"

"He left with Harry."

"That's odd. Did they say where they were going?"

Mom shrugs and shakes her head but the next minute she's grinning. She was never good at lying. I draw closer seeing her purposely dodge any eye contact.

"You're still a horrible actress," I smile and cross my arms.

"Why do you think I took to music instead of drama?"

"Because we couldn't have two drama queens in the house," we laugh the moment she realizes I'm referring to dad. "I'm going to lay down in my room now till Harry returns."

"Aren't you hungry, Jude? You should eat something."

"I don't have an appetite. Maybe later," I smile and kiss her cheek.

---

I have The Beatles still playing on my phone when I awake from my nap. It's three o'clock, half the day has gone so fast. There's a subtle cough and I sit up immediately, finding Harry sitting on the corner of the bed.

"How ya feelin'?"

"Fine. Why?"

"You've had a rough day with your grand-aunt's news and all."

"Yeah. I'll call her soon to see how she's doing. Where did you and dad go?"

"For a drive," he grins.

"A drive?" I want to snap at him, ask him why he thought it was so important that he had to leave me alone for most of the day. "Hmm."

"Are you bothered?"

"Don't be silly. Why would I be?" I clench my jaw and pat my hair down.

"Because I can tell. . . .You sure you're aright? Would you like to talk about it?"

"No. I'm fine, Harry. Really... So, have you booked your flight for tomorrow yet?"

"You still want me to go?" he asks in shock.

"Yes that's what we agreed on. I had the talk, everything's alright, for the most part. And you have to go back to work. Don't worry about me, Harry. I'll be fine with my parents you know."

"I know. I just thought. . ." Harry pauses deep in thought then shakes his head. "I'll take care of it later."

He looks unhappy, but why? I know he initially didn't want to leave, still, this is no time to be careless with his career. I'd never forgive myself if he slacked.

"It's only a couple of days, why the long face?"

"Isn't it pathetic that the thought of leavin' you for that long is already makin' me miserable."

"It's not pathetic. I feel the same way but I'm not going to admit it," I smile knowingly.

Harry squints and smirks at me. "Come, I'd like to take you out for an early dinner and put some food in that tummy."

"My TUMMY doesn't need any food," I stick my tongue out.

"Nonsense, and if you keep arguin' with me, I'm gonna bend you over for a spankin'," he winks.

"You wouldn't dare. . ." I flirt.

Cocking his head, Harry's eyes widen. His smile tells me he's serious. All it takes is one arm to hook around my waist and I'm pulled on to his lap. As I sit there staring at him, thinking he wouldn't actually humiliate me, he drops one leg and quickly slaps my butt. My jaw drops at his audacious yet playful actions. He really did it!

"Are you done?" he warns me with a sexy smile.

"I kind of liked it. . . maybe I'm not done," I say pridefully.

"You're so full of it," he laughs. His arms secure around my legs and waist as he stands to his feet.

Harry sets me down after he kisses the tip of my nose and I rapidly grab my purse. I'm eager to get away and get lost with him, in him. We stampede downstairs and say good bye to my parents. I'm delighted to forget about reality for a while and just as I skip through the front door, I stop dead in my tracks.

"Whaaaat?!" I gasp overjoyed. There's a vintage car in my driveway.

"It's a 57 Chevy Black Widow. Beautiful isn't she?"

"Indeed but what is she doing here?!" I gape the closer I get.

"Observe. . .the spacious backseat," Harry wiggles his brows and I burst into laughter. "Of course, I didn't tell your father my reasons for choosin' her."

"What did you tell him then?" I cross my arms in amusement.

"That it's all part of our romantic date I have planned."

"Is that so? How clever of you."

"I know."

Harry's sly grin is quite visible as he opens my door. I feel like my outfit suits the car as well. If Harry's hair were greased back then we'd drive right into the 50s. But who needs all those products with his extravagant curls. He does match the antique vehicle, wearing a white T-shirt and black ripped skinny jeans.

---

It's later in the evening, my favorite time of day as the sky transitions in to night, displaying such romantic colors. Speaking of romantic, Harry is stealing my heart all over again. I can't stop staring at him, even as we walk out the diner with full bellies. The older waitresses were so in enamored by him, I giggled with them every time he winked their way. I was surprised they invited me to take a picture with them and Harry. Though I almost got teary eyed for they reminded me of aunt Maggie.

The back and front seat of this black beauty is incredibly spacious. I like that I can sit right beside Harry as he drives, since the gears are behind the steering wheel. We drive to our next destination listening to the radio while I'm holding Harry's hand in my lap. I know for a fact people are staring at us because of our classy ride, hopefully that's the only thing that catches their attention before they recognize the driver.


"This is a good song," Harry announces and turns the volume up.

It takes me a moment to recognize the lyrics, and when I do, my pupils turn into red hearts. Harry's fingers tap the wheel and his head begins to sway. Everyday I'm reminded of how lucky I am. I close my eyes momentarily and separate his scent from the cool breeze. Wishing time would go slower, I'm startled once Harry sings the chorus to the song.

"I'll be your cryin' shoulder, I'll be love suicide...I'll be better when I'm older, I'll be the greatest fan of your life," he looks at me and with our hands still knit together, he nudges the bottom of my chin.

There's no where to hide, I'm blushing hard and my chest is fluttering. What is he doing to me? The Script plays after and I lose sight of where we're going. The sun is almost tucked away but what's more captivating is the fluorescent full moon above us.


We pull into Glendale's Drive In, just in time for their next showing of Godzilla. Not my choice preference although it looks entertaining. Harry turns off the engine and changes the station till we find the previews that match up with the screen. In all the years I've lived in Arizona, I've never been to this or any drive-in. I must admit I'm ecstatic!

"Would you like anythin'?"

"Ice cream," I smile childishly.

In a matter of minutes, Harry returns with a banana split and two bottles of water. We slide to my side of the front seat, away from the steering wheel, and feed each other the splendid treat. It seems as though I have to fight for the banana pieces since Harry is having trouble sharing them; he's a real charmer.

Snuggling with his arm around my shoulders, I can feel Harry's fingers stroke and pull lightly at my tousled hair. Every couple of minutes he'll pull me against him to kiss my forehead or cheek. He's so sweet with me, I can't help lose interest in the film while I direct my own fantasy of our backseat experience.

My eyes fall on his hand as it lays still on his thigh. They continue to draw the map of Harry's perfect anatomy, including his pleasurable instrument hidden behind that zipper. I imagine myself kneeling before him and tasting that odd yet addictive flavor that is him. A grin escapes me at the sight of only one person seated instead of two. I feel so dirty I'm almost proud of myself.

Just then Harry delicately pinches my chin and turns my head to face him. His eyes glow and excite me. I'm waiting for him to say something, anything! I know the moment I hear his English accent roll of his tongue I'll transform into a puddle that very instant. His chest inflates and in seconds I hear the gush of air exhale from his nostrils.

We hold an intense stare, I can feel our faces lean in by some magical force of gravity. Harry's lips part and I can almost taste the hint of his sweet breath. His fingers smooth out over my cheek and the echo of my racy heart overpowers the lizard's sonic cry from the car speakers. In that moment when our lips finally graze each other, I feel as though Harry's energy combined with mine, is enough to send us spiraling through multiple orgasms by the power of one simple kiss.

Notes

A/N: Chapter Playlist

"New Morning" -Alpha Rev

"Thunder" Boys Like Girls

"I'll Be" -Edwin McCain

"For the First Time" -The Script

---

I couldn't handle all the feels, I had to stop there...but you know what that means :>

Next chapter "<3"

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this chapter, did you like it or maybe you didn't. That's ok too. I'd still like to hear your opinion either way. I apologize for taking so long to update this story at times, but I just can't rush a chapter, it means too much to me to do that injustice after all that's been put into it.

I Love all you readers for sticking with me and voting/subscribing/commenting on the story, I'm eternally grateful. I couldn't find a happier addiction than to write fanfiction ;)