Mr. Vermont's Class

In which the ex-girlfriend has not lost hope in winning back her ex-boyfriend.

Lily Collins as Noelle Rosemary Henderson

Max Thieriot as Asher Louis James

Lily James as Rosalie Perkins

A handsome blond haired man stopped in front of his building. He was breathing quite heavily, eyes frantic and wide, as if he had been running from someone.

“Asher! Hey, where are you going?”

Upon hearing his ex-girlfriend’s voice, Asher almost shouted in annoyance before breathing deeply and facing the beautiful brunette. “Noelle, I’m about to be late for class. What do you want? Can you make it quick?”

By this time, the petite girl had already stood in front of the man. “I just wanted to ask if you wanted to have lunch with me? I sent you a few text messages this morning, but you didn’t reply.”

“My phone died.”

Knowing fully well he was lying, Noelle still had a wide smile plastered on her face. “Oh, that’s why. So lunch?”

Running a hand through his light-colored locks, Asher sighed loudly. “For the eighth time this week, no, I will not have lunch with you or ever again, Noelle.”

Even if her heart was breaking into a million tiny pieces, her smile never wavered. “It’s just lunch, Ash. No need to put anything behind it.”

Unable to hold the question to himself, the tall man asked. “Don’t you ever get tired of asking me out?”

For the first time since they saw each other this morning, Noelle’s face showed a glimpse of the pain she was feeling. “I just want to be with you again.”

He started to feel a light jab at her words and knew it was time to end this conversation. “We’ve already talked about this, Noelle.” Before she could reply, he continued. “I have to go. Take care of yourself.”

Without glancing back, Asher turned and went inside his building.

Knowing there was no more point in following him, Noelle went over to her car and let out the tears she had been keeping inside since this morning.

Ever since they broke up months ago, Noelle had been trying to get Asher to go out with her. She had made it perfectly clear that she wanted to get back together with him. But every time she tried to ask him out, he would always decline. 4th Year of College had just started and Noelle had already been rejected more than twenty times by the same man.

He says he doesn’t want to be with her anymore, but she knows it’s not true.

It can’t be.

Asher Louis James and Noelle Rosemary Henderson belonged together.

It was Junior Year and the couple had been together for a year now.

During their anniversary weekend, Asher had taken Noelle to his parent’s lake house outside of town. It was their first time sleeping together, and very memorable to them both.

While lying in bed together, Noelle looked up at Ash. “So coach is going to announce who the new captain of the soccer team is next week.”

Asher smiled at her. “Yeah. Do you think I’ll get it?”

She pecked his right cheek. “No doubt about it... Captain.”

He grinned in response. “I hope so, baby. You know how much soccer means to me.”

Sitting up, Noelle held his hand. “I do. And you will, I’m sure. I’ll be in all of your games and I’ll always be the loudest one to cheer.”

“My own personal cheerleader.” Asher smirked, knowing how Noelle wanted no association with the preppy title.

Rolling her brown eyes, Noelle shoved his shoulder lightly. “Whatever.”

The following week, it was announced that Asher Louis James was the new soccer captain until his Senior Year.

From then on, Asher had been the captain of her heart and Noelle had been his best cheerleader.

More tears streamed down Noelle’s face as she remembered more of their memories together.

“I miss you so much, captain.”

********

“So Leanne told me that your man asked out Ms. Rosalie Perkins.” Ruby greeted Noelle as they sat in Mr. Vermont’s General Psychology Class.

Noelle felt her heart rate quicken. “What? Who the hell is Rosalie Perkins?”

The redhead shrugged. “Miss America, apparently, with how nice she is to everyone.” Leaning in, she continued in a whisper. “I heard that she was held-up by a man with a knife once. He asked for her cell, but she also gave him her entire wallet and told him that if he was robbing college students, he must really need the money.” Tutting, she continued a little bit louder. “Who the hell does that? People that nice really still exist?”

The brunette frowned. “And Asher asked her out?”

Ruby shrugged again. “One of my friends, Leanne is in the same Physics class as Asher and Rosalie. She told me on the way to class.”

Noelle became a little light-headed. She then plastered one of her signature smiles on her face. “I’m sure your friend is just spreading rumors, Rubs. We know how Leanne can get sometimes. Ash and I haven’t even been broken up for a year after 6 years of being in a relationship. It’s too soon for him to be entertaining other girls.”

A hint of pity showed in Ruby’s green eyes before she masked it with an eye roll. “Yeah, you’re right. Leanne can be such a gossip mill sometimes.”

But the sad smile and the hand she placed over Noelle’s told the brunette that her friend believed otherwise.

“Oh! Did you hear Athena Belmont’s back?”

“Isn’t that Cal White’s ex-girlfriend?” Noelle asked, remembering the beautiful Asian brunette who was always with the coolest boys of their school; Cal, her boyfriend, Julian, Mitch and Polo.

Ruby grinned, showing perfectly white teeth. “The one and only. She still looks like such a supermodel.”

As the redhead continued to chatter, Noelle had begun to zone her out and her thoughts went back to her ex-boyfriend.

A loud slam resonated from the door as the couple entered their home.

“I’m just saying, Noe. I don’t understand why you’re making such a big deal about it.”

An incredulous look appeared on her face. “You don’t understand? Your sister, who never liked me, wants you to go to Paris with her and her friends. She made sure to emphasize that Jadey was going, too!”

Asher groaned and clenched his hair. “Fuck, Noe, not this bullshit again!”

“It’s not bullshit, Ash! I’ve seen the way she looks at you. She wants you. And Amanda likes her for you, too! She made that perfectly fucking clear.”

He walked over to his girlfriend and grasped her arms. “I don’t care who Amanda wants for me. Or who Jadey likes. I only want you, cheer. Always only you. Don’t you trust me?”

“I do. It’s just that I don’t trust that bitch.”

“My sister or her friend?”

“Both of them.”

The couple shared a look before laughing. Asher let go of his girlfriend’s arms before hugging her tightly. Hugging him back, she mumbled, “I just don’t want to lose you, Ash. I can’t bear to lose someone I love again.”

He stroked her hair. “You’re never going to lose me, Noe. Captain and cheer always, remember?”

Looking up, she smiled. “I love you, Asher.”

“I love you too, Noelle.”

“So you’re not going, right?”

Asher released her slowly. “I never said that... My parents already bought the ticket, Noe -”

Her eyes narrowed. “You could return it.”

The blond man sighed. “I can’t, babe. It’s a gift from my parents, too and -

“You know what, fine. Just go. Forget that this fucking trip doesn’t make me comfortable at all.”

“Noelle - ”

“I have to do a project, Asher. I’d like not to be disturbed please.” Those were the last words she said before entering her study and working on an easy project.

That was one of the many nights they would sleep facing away from each other.

********

A soft knock woke Asher from his nap.

Glancing to the left, he read the time. 9:45.

He frowned. Why would anyone wake him up this early on a Saturday?

Another two knocks before Noelle’s soft voice floated through the room. “Ash? I brought breakfast.”

Groaning, the blond man rubbed his eyes before lazily walking over the door to open it.

The usual bright smile plastered on the lady’s face. “Good morning, sleepyhead! It’s a beautiful Saturday. You shouldn’t be sleeping in so late.”

Entering the apartment, Noelle set the food on the table.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Asher said slowly.

“Preparing our breakfast, silly. I made your favorite - omelette, bacon and croissant with black coffee.”

It does sound delicious, but Asher knew that Noelle had other intentions. “Okay, but why?”

Stopping her movements, Noelle looked up and smile warmly. “Because I want to.”

The blond held in a grimace. “Noe -”

“Look, I know that if I asked you, you would have said no. That’s why I just brought it here for you.” Having prepared everything, Noelle sat down on one of the stools. “Do you have anything to do today? I was thinking we could watch a movie or something.”

Not moving from where he stood, the blond boy spoke again. “Noelle, you have to stop doing this. We’ve broken up eight months ago. You have to let me go and move on.”

She looked at him with a sarcastic smile. “Like you have?”

Asher was quick to respond. “So you’ve heard?”

“So it’s true?” Noelle was faster to retort.

A swift nod was her response. She sucked in a sharp breath. “But what about us?”

He sat on the stool opposite from her. “There is no us, Noe. It’s been over for a long time already.”

Her hands clenched on the table. “We could have still fixed it. I still love you, Ash. Is there really nothing left for me there in your heart?”

Silence.

“Rosalie Perkins, huh? I heard she’s a nice girl.”

Asher just looked at her.

The brunette stood up. “It would be a shame if such a sweet girl’s spirits would be shattered.”

Asher stood up, as well. He glared at her. “If you or your friends so much as go near her, you will answer to me. I really like her, Noelle. What I do with my life is none of your business anymore.”

Despite the pain in her heart at his remark, she let a sarcastic laugh escape her lips and float around the room. “Is that really what you think?” Walking, she spat. “Baby, did you forget that we’re two peas in a pod. There’s no separating us.”

“You’re not part of my life anymore. Neither am I in yours. I don’t understand why you can’t just leave me alone.”

Looking at him in the eye, she warned. “I’m a nice girl, Ash. But if something that’s mine is being threatened to be taken away from me... I’m not going to just stand by and fucking watch.”

“I’m not yours anymore, Noelle. Why can’t you fucking get that through your head?”

She took a deep breath before responding, “October 5th is coming up - ”

“Get out.” He spat sharply.

“Asher, I’m sorry. I just thought that -”

“Noelle, I’m only going to say it one last time. Get. Out.”

The tone of his voice left no room for arguments.

Without another word, Noelle walked to the door. Before she closed it, the brunette hesitated. Making up her mind, she whispered, “I was just going to say it’s almost Laney’s birthday.”

Once the door was closed, the ex-lovers both released a deep breath.

“What - what do you mean you’re breaking up with me?”

The brunette’s boyfriend of 6 years, Asher, wouldn’t meet her eyes.

“Noelle, I just - I can’t keep pretending that things will go back to how they were before. You and I, we were once in love.” His gaze finally met hers. “But our time together has passed.”

It became harder and harder for her to breathe as the tears started falling. “But I love you, Ash.”

“Noelle -”

She went up to him and wrapped her arms around his waist. “Please don’t do this. I know that things have been rough for the past few months with us. I mean, exams have been crazy, we’re adjusting to the semester classes and Laney -”

Suddenly, he let go of her like he was touching fire. His eyes stared at her with so much anguish. “Don’t even go there, Noelle Rosemary.” His face softened upon seeing her helpless state. “Despite how things are ending, I want you to know that I really did love you. But not anymore. And deep down, Noe, I think you don’t love me anymore either.”

Their gazes locked. “How could you say that? What happened to our plans? Our future? We were supposed to study hard together, get through college together, face everyday together. We were going to get married with a simple beach wedding and have our honeymoon in Bora-Bora. We were gonna have a soccer team full of k -” She choked up, but continued. “We were going to have a soccer team full of kids, Ash. Why - why are you giving up on us so soon?”

Tears were now in his eyes, as well. She voiced out a painful thought. “Is - is there someone else?”

Ash’s eyes widened. “No, Noelle! Of course not. I would never do that to you.”

Her voice sounded so broken, even to her own ears. She had absolutely no idea how she’s still standing. “Then why? Help me understand because I just don’t get it.”

“You want to know why?” His eyes blazed. “Because I don’t know you anymore. Ever since -” He broke off, shaking his head. “Nothing’s ever been the same anymore. You changed, and I’m not happy. I feel like I’m in a fucked up relationship and it’s slowly killing me inside. I need to get out, Noe, or I’m going to lose my mind real soon.”

“I can change -”

“No. It’s too late for that.”

She looked at him - the way his hands formed into fists, the way his jaw is clenched and how he’s breathing harshly. She watched his gorgeous face harden and realized the reality of the situation.

Her voice came out as a whisper. “It’s too late because I can’t change your mind anymore. You’ve already made your decision.”

He barely gave a brief nod. “We were perfect once, Noe. I can never deny that. But things change, situations happened, and the only thing left for us to do is to let go of each other because our past is becoming too painful.”

She held on a brave resolve. “I’m not giving you up without a fight, Asher. You said it yourself, we were once perfect for each other. I just need to show you that we still are. You’re mine. Just as I am yours. Remember, captain and cheerleader, right?”

A small smile graced his lips. “We were kids, Noe. You deserve to be happy.”

“I am happy. With you. It’s you who isn’t happy anymore.”

“Don’t I deserve to be happy, too?” He shook his head and made a move to step forward - but then changed his mind. “Goodbye, Noelle. Take care of yourself. Please.”

And then he walked away.

Noelle Henderson’s other half.

Looking at Asher’s broad figure, one thought kept repeating itself in Noelle’s mind.

“I’ll show you, Ash. We are meant to be. We’re a couple written in the stars.”

********

Sierra was the one who looked to the door when the bell chimed, signaling another customer had entered the coffee shop.

Seeing who it was, the blonde’s eyes widened. She lightly nudged Ruby, who was beside her.

“Ow, what the f -” Her anger was cut short when she caught sight of her friend whose eyes were following something behind her. Turning around, she saw her other friend’s ex-boyfriend, Asher, and the girl he’s courting, Rosalie.

Both girl’s gaze landed on their other friend, who had earphones plugged in while reading a chapter for their exam in Mr. Vermont’s class the following day. All of Mr. Vermont’s General Psychology 101 Class has moved up to his General Psychology 102 Class for the 2nd and final semester.

This was the semester before all of them would hopefully graduate.

Sierra and Ruby both flickered their gaze from their clueless friend to each other.

“Should we let her know?” Ruby mouthed.

The blond’s reply was a panicked look.

Noelle plugged one earbud out. “I can’t hear you, but I can literally feel the both of you panicking. What is go -” Her chocolate eyes landed on the couple lining down the cashier.

“Oh.”

After their little argument with Asher back in his apartment last semester, she had gone back to her usual self and asked him out on friendly dates and trying to let him see that they belonged to each other.

She was aware that Rosalie Perkins was in the picture, but to Noelle, she was an irrelevant setback.

Somewhat like a temporary distraction for Asher.

After all, he needed to experience dating other girls before he could be with her again for the rest of their lives.

Her gaze turned blank as she observed them. It was the first time since she’s heard about them dating to see the two up close. Most probably because her friends did a fantastic job at keeping her away from them.

Rosalie Perkins was a tall blond. She had an athletic body, due to being a volleyball player since high school, so she heard. She had glasses on and a pretty face. Her face was free of make-up except maybe some powder, mascara, eyebrow and lip gloss. Her smile was soft and sweet. Asher must have said something funny because she hit his right arm lightly while laughing. He grabbed her hand and interlocked their fingers when it was their turn to order.

Noelle looked away.

She hated to say it, but Asher and Rosalie looked good together.

This couldn’t be. She was losing him. She needed to do something.

“Noe, babe.” Sierra said slowly.

“Noelle.” Ruby piped in.

“Listen to me, Noe.” Sierra continued. “We don’t have to stay here. He already told you not to interfere with their relationship. Don’t... don’t do anything rash. You know we have your back always, but stay calm and just don’t mind them.”

Ruby chose to stay silent and just stared at Noelle, observing her face.

“Stop it, you two. You make it sound like I’m going to throw a bomb in their direction.” The brunette forced a laugh. “I’ll just go say hi and we can head out.”

Before the two girls could say anything, Noelle swiftly got up and walked over to the couple who have just found a table.

“Hey, Ash.”

Asher’s smile faded as he looked up at his ex-girlfriend.

“Noelle.”

Rosalie’s blue eyes also landed on the beautiful brunette. Although her smile wavered a little, it stayed plastered on her face. Noelle’s returned the blond’s gaze. She smiled widely. “And you must be Rosalie.”

“And you, Noelle. You’re very pretty.”

“I wish I could say the same about you.” That’s not what Noelle intended to come out.

Asher threw her a warning look. “Is there anything you need, Noelle? I’m on a date with my girlfriend.”

The pain Noelle felt when he called her his girlfriend could not be seen in her face at all. “I just wanted to say hi, that’s all. No need to be so short with me, Ash.”

“Well, hi. Anything else?”

The brunette’s smile became tight. “No, that’s all.” Facing the blond lady, she smirked. “Be careful with what you have, Rosalie. You might lose it just as easily as you got it.”

Asher’s girlfriend was quick to retort in a sweet voice. “Don’t worry, Noelle. I know how to take care of what’s mine.”

The petite girl’s smile turned clipped. “That’s good to hear. I’ve got to go now. Take care. Enjoy your coffee.”

Once the brunette was far enough not to hear, Rosalie looked at Asher sharply. “Will she be a problem to our relationship, babe?”

Asher rolled his eyes. “Not at all. Noelle and I have been over long ago.”

The blond looked to the direction of where Noelle exited. “I just wished she wasn’t so beautiful.”

********

Ever since the coffee shop incident, Noelle has been more determined than ever to win back her man.

No gorgeous blond barbie would get in the way of fate.

Although all of her advances had been rejected, it did nothing to deter the brunette’s spirit.

Nothing was ever going to change her mind about Asher Louis James.

********

Good morning, dear! Luke, Amanda and I will be visiting this weekend. Hope you’re available to join us for dinner. See you soon!

A smirk made its way to Noelle’s lips as she responded to the text message.

Hey, Nadia. I’m pretty busy with my thesis paper, but I’ve always got time for you. Where and what time should I meet you?

Although Amanda had never like her despite dating her brother for over 6 years, Asher’s parents were like her 2nd set of parents. Everyone knew about the break-up, but her relationship with Asher’s parents never changed. Nadia and Luke still loved her like their own.

The brunette was sure that Nadia would want to meet over for lunch or dinner. And for sure, Asher would be there. She would be on her best behavior.

Her phone chimed.

How about at Michaelangelo’s Pizzeria for dinner this Saturday? Say, 7pm?

It chimed again.

By the way, don’t tell Asher. He doesn’t know we’re coming. He thinks it’ll only be Amanda visiting.

Her reply was quick. Sure thing, Nadia. See you then. Have a safe drive.

*******

“Darling, you’re as beautiful as ever.”

Noelle smiled at Nadia and turned to give Luke a hug. To her surprise, Amanda gave her a hug too. For the first time, the blond gave her a warm smile. “It’s good to see you, Noelle. How are you?”

The brunette smiled at her, but her eyes narrowed in suspicion. “I’m doing well, how about yourself?”

The plan was for Asher to meet with Amanda in the pizza place, but he would be surprised to see his parents there, too.

She hoped that she could talk to him. He’d been very busy with Rosalie for the past few weeks. Noelle barely even saw him on campus anymore.

Their chitchat was cut short when they all headed to the restaurant. The James’ rode in Amanda’s car, while Noelle drove hers.

When they arrived, Asher was already there. He was clearly happy to see his parents. They have always been close, ever since he was a child. But once his eyes landed on the only brunette among the family of blond’s, his eyes narrowed.

“Not to be rude, but why is she here?”

She felt a pang in her chest at the tone of his voice.

To her surprise, it was Amanda who slung her arm around Noelle’s shoulders. “I told mom to invite her. It’s been a while since everybody got together.”

For some reason, Asher looked quite nervous. Then a tall blond came rushing to their table. “Sorry, sorry! I didn’t mean to be late. My professor took forever to finish his lecture.”

Asher looked at Noelle with warning in his eyes. “Everyone, this is my girlfriend, Rosalie. She’s the one I was telling you about who will be coming home with me for Christmas.”

She gave him a quick peck before smiling at everyone. Her eyes looked a little surprise to see the brunette, but her smile remained the same.

Everyone’s eyes were all over the place, but no one would meet Noelle’s gaze.

It was Luke who cut the awkward silence. “It’s nice to meet you, Rosalie. Shall we place in our order? Waiter!”

Once the orders were made, silence fell on the table once again. It looked like neither Nadia nor Amanda knew that Rosalie was going to be there. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have put Noelle in this awkward situation.

“So, Rosalie, what major are you taking up?”

One of her famous dimpled smiles appeared. “Veterinary. I love animals.”

That did it. As soon as animals were brought up, everyone eased up and got more comfortable.

Noelle couldn’t help but notice the loving glances that Asher and Rosalie shared throughout the meal. Somewhere in between, they eventually held hands. Everyone noticed the display of affection, but most especially the brunette.

This was the first time that Noelle ever felt like she was out of place with the James’ family.

There was pain clear in her eyes as she looked at the table around her.

This used to be her home.

These people used to be her extended family.

But not anymore.

She watched in misery as everyone enjoyed each other’s company. It hurt the most to see how in love the couple in front of her looked, and how easily everyone had accepted her.

But why wouldn’t they? Rosalie Perkins is the sweetest and most lovable person in the world.

It was a hard pill to swallow, but Noelle is now realizing the truth.

Someone had taken her place. In Asher’s heart, and with his whole family.

There was no room for her here anymore.

It was getting harder to hold in her tears as she realized that this would probably be the last time she could be with all of them.

Sucking in a soft breath, she cut into the conversation lightly. “Hey, everyone. Thank you so much for inviting me tonight. Unfortunately, I have to go. I have a project for my Psychology 102 to finish. My teacher, Mr. Vermont, can be pretty strict with his deadlines.” She ended it with a soft laugh.

She gave everyone a big hug. Her hug with Asher was a little awkward, but she ignored it since she knew she probably would never be able to hug him anymore.

The last person she gave a hug to was Rosalie. Before letting go, she softly whispered in the blond’s ear, “Come with me outside please.”

To her surprise, Rosalie piped up loudly. “I’ll walk you to your car.”

Asher looked alarmed before motioning to stand up. “Maybe I should go with you.”

Noelle looked at him with a sad smile. “Don’t worry, Ash. Nothing’s going to happen to her. We’re just walking to the parking lot.”

Rosalie laughed. “Yeah, babe. We’ll be fine.”

The parking area was at the back of the restaurant. Both girls had to go out the alleyway before going to the back. Once they were outside Noelle’s car, Rosalie looked at her quietly.

“You probably don’t like me.” Noelle started. The blond looked like she was about to argue, but one look from the other girl kept her from opening her mouth. “With good reason, too.” Giving her a small smile, their gazes locked. “From the start, I always gave you and Ash hell for dating each other. I was always bothering him and trying to get him to see that we were perfect for each other. That you are just a distraction that he needs to get out of his system.”

Rosalie stared quietly at her. “I was determined to let him see things my way. But then I saw how he acts around you. The little things that he does and says to you when you both think no one’s looking.” She started to choke up as tears welled in her eyes. “I can see now that he really loves you. I know, Rosalie. Because that’s how he was when he was still in love with me.”

Sucking in a deep breath, Noelle let out a shaky breath. “I know that you don’t need nor are you asking for my blessing... but I want you to know that I won’t bother you two anymore. Please take care of him. Love him in all the ways that I did and in all the ways that I couldn’t. You make him happy now. As hard as it is for me to do, I’m going to let him go. Both of you deserve happiness.”

The blond could feel the pain of the girl in front of her. She wanted to make her feel better, but didn’t know how to. She knew that she was starting to fall for Asher, too.

Unable to help herself though, Rosalie leaned in and hugged the brunette. Noelle didn’t even think twice and hugged her back. “I will, Noelle. I’ll try my damned hardest to make him happy everyday.” When both girls separated, the blond made sure their gazes met. “You deserve to be happy, too, Noelle. And you will be, I know it. Moving on will take time, but you’ll get there eventually.”

The brunette smiled sadly. “I know. It’s just going to be such a bitch trying to forget him.”

“He is one in a million, isn’t he?”

“Yeah, he is.” Stepping back, Noelle gestured to the pizzeria. “They’re probably wondering if you’re still alive by now. We took longer than I thought.” She said with a light laugh.

Rosalie responded with a soft laugh, too. “Yeah, I guess I have to get going now. Are you gonna be okay?”

Slowly, Noelle replied. “I think so.”

After sharing another smile, the blond walked back to the restaurant.

Noelle went in the car... and cried her heart out.

“This is going to be the last time I cry for you, Ash. I’m finally giving you what you want and I’m letting you go.”

********

It felt like an eternity while Asher was waiting for Rosalie to come back.

The moment the two girls were out of earshot, he looked at his sister and glared.

“Why did you invite Noelle?!”

Amanda shrugged. “I honestly didn’t know you were bringing your girlfriend. I thought it would be just us.”

Nadia looked at her son. “It was also my fault. I also really wanted her to come. I’ve missed Noelle. You know she’s like a daughter to me.”

Luke hummed in agreement.

“We all miss her, Ash. Don’t get me wrong. Rosalie seems like such a sweetheart, but she’s no Noelle.” To everyone’s surprise, it was Amanda who said this. Everyone knew she wasn’t Noelle’s biggest fan. She reached inside her bag and pulled out a familiar blue box. “I was cleaning your room for some storage space when I saw this. Sorry, bro, but I did read it.” She handed it over to him. “She really loved you, you know. You’d be lucky if Rosalie would love you even half as much as Noelle does.”

Looking at the box in his hand, Asher was about to respond when his father spoke. “Loved? I’d bet my right lung that she still loves him. That poor girl looked so broken the entire dinner.”

The blond man couldn’t help but agree with his father. He had stolen glances at her throughout the night and saw the painful expression on her face every time he would make sweet gestures to his girlfriend. Despite Noelle’s many flaws, it was never his intention to hurt her, so he tried to lessen his affection for Rosalie.

“Just think long about your decisions, Ash. A girl who can love you like that doesn’t come by all the time. Make sure you’re ready to see her love someone else as much as she loved you.”

When Rosalie came back, the topic of Noelle has long been dropped. They were now talking about the latest game of Barca.

But the words of his mother never left the thoughts of Asher.

********

It felt like an eternity, but really it was just thirty minutes of crying when Noelle heard a light tap on her driver’s side window.

Confused, she looked up to see Asher’s face on the window. After unlocking the door, he slid inside.

The blond man was surprised to find his ex-girlfriend’s car still parked outside the restaurant. He went outside to grab his wallet because he left it in his car, when he spotted her black Volvo.

He grabbed his wallet before making his way over to her. To his surprise, her face was covered as she leaned down on the steering wheel. The shake of her shoulders imply that she’s crying.

Had she been in tears the whole time?

His question was answered when she looked up after hearing his knock. She was as beautiful as ever, Asher could never deny that. But even her beauty couldn’t hide that fact that she is deeply hurting.

He wanted to kick himself for being the cause of it. Then he wanted to kick himself again for even caring.

The blond reasoned with himself that he would have cared about hurting someone, regardless of who it was.

The old flame looked at each other for a long time before Noelle spoke.

“Did you need anything?” She wiped her face while asking.

“Just wanted to check if you’re fine.”

Forcing out a smile, she mumbled. “It’s difficult to be fine when the love of your life is happy with someone else.”

“Noelle, you have to stop doing this to yourself. It’s time to move on.”

She faced him and smiled sadly. “I’ve only ever wanted you to be happy, captain.” His heart skipped a beat after hearing the old nickname, but he didn’t show it. It would give her false hopes. “For a long time, I never gave up on the thought that I could still be your happiness. But after seeing you with Rosalie tonight, I can see that’s not the case anymore.” She paused. “You look good together. You compliment each other very well.”

“Noe -”

Her gaze went to her lap. “Don’t worry, Ash. I’m not gonna bother the two of you anymore. You’re right. It’s time I let you go.”

They sat in silence for a few minutes before Asher made a move to go.

“Before you go,” Noelle piped up softly. “Can I have one last hug?”

He didn’t have the heart to say no so he just scooted over and silently wrapped his arms around her small frame. To his surprise, she hugged him tighter.

When they’ve let go of each other, she gave him a small smile. “You should go now. They’re gonna start looking for you soon.”

“Take care of yourself, Noe, alright? I wish you happiness, as well.”

Then he got out of the car.

When he went out to the parking lot again with the rest of his family, the familiar black Volvo was no longer anywhere in sight.

********

True to her word, Noelle never went near the couple again.

In fact, Asher hadn’t seen her in weeks.

Not a hair nor a shadow of his brunette ex-girlfriend.

It was crazy. Now that he finally got what he was asking her, he couldn’t stop thinking about her.

He couldn’t stop thinking about her smile.

About how she smelled like.

How she would always cook him his favorite breakfast when he wasn’t having a good morning.

He also knew it was wrong, but he couldn’t help but compare Rosalie to her.

Everything that he found adorable about Rosalie at first, would now just annoy him.

He was always tired and sleepy when they were together.

Even the sex was becoming quite a chore.

Asher didn’t want to admit it, but he knew he was missing a certain petite brunette.

*********

On one rainy afternoon, Asher found Rosalie in their room. She was on the bed, facing away from him, and looking down at something in her hands.

When he went closer, he noticed the blue box that Amanda had given him in the pizzeria. It was filled with love notes and pictures of him and Noelle.

“Ash, why do you love me?”

The question startled Asher. “Huh?”

Louder, Rosalie repeated. “I said, why do you love me?”

Asher sat beside her before answering. He smiled. “Because your caring. And sweet. You’re passionate about many things, and you value your morals. You’re a woman of your word and you always have the nicest things to say about everyone. I love you because I can see that you’re a good person and you make me want to become a better person, too.”

There was a distant look in her blue eyes before she looked at her boyfriend in the eye. “Thank you, sweetie. Now, why did you fall in love with Noelle?”

Asher wasn’t sure if he heard it right. “What?”

“Why did you fall in love with Noelle?”

There were many things about that woman that made her unlovable. Many of those came to mind, but really, the only thing that came out was, “I don’t know. I just got to know her and somewhere along the way, I just did.”

Tears streamed down Rosalie’s face as she smiled at her boyfriend. “That’s the kind of answer I was hoping for.”

“You don’t want me to know why I love you?”

“No!” The blond shook her head. “Don’t you get it, Ash? You’re not supposed to know why you’re in love with the person. You’re just supposed to feel it. Knowing why you love someone is because you’re looking for certain qualities and you settle with this person because you think that they have it. It’s all very scientific and neurotic.” Rosalie put the pictures she was holding back in the box. “But being in love... True love is exciting and passionate and way beyond reason. It’s a feeling that comes to you, even when you don’t understand it. Especially when you don’t. That’s why I believe you shouldn’t know why you’re in love. You should just... be.”

His heartbeat quickened as he was grasping her words. His eyes flickered between Rosalie’s face and the smiling face of the brunette in the picture.

“What are you saying, Rose?”

Wiping the tears from her face, Rose rolled her eyes. “You’re not stupid, Ash. We both know what I’m saying.”

He still had an unsure look on his face. The blond looked at her boyfriend, or well, ex-boyfriend, and smiled softly. “You may have thought that you love me, Ash, and maybe you do even love me. But you’ve never been in love with me. You tried, sure. But we never had what you and Noelle have. Not even a fraction of it.” Nudging his shoulders, she gave him a warm smile. “Go get your girl.”

Standing up, a determined look was seen on Asher’s face.

It became clear to him now why he felt so uncomfortable with his mother’s words to him.

The truth was, he wasn’t ready to see Noelle love someone else. He never will be.

She was right. They do belong together. They always have. He was so stupid to think otherwise.

Before leaving, he gave Rose a tight hug. “Thank you so much, Rosalie. You deserve someone better than me.”

Laughing, she shoved him off. “Go find your cheerleader, captain.”

Smiling widely, the blond man nodded.

Looking down at photos in the box, Rosalie whispered. “You were right, Noelle. I was just the distraction. You are the end game.”

*********

Noelle was nowhere to be found.

Asher went to her apartment, but she wasn’t there. He went to her favorite restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, parks and even the library... but she wasn’t in any of them.

Just when he was about to give up, his heart told him exactly where he could find her.

*********

“Hi, baby.”

A brunette lady sat on the grass, getting comfortable. She had just placed some fresh daisies on the grave stone in front of her.

“It’s mommy again. Did you miss me?”

She was starting to cry again. “I know I’ve been coming here a lot these past few weeks. You don’t know how badly I wish you were here, Laney. I wish I could have known you. What you liked, what you didn’t like. I wish I was able to hold you for more than a few hours. My sweet baby, I wish so badly I could hug right now.”

Silence fell on the cemetery as Noelle cried softly to herself.

“I’m trying, baby girl. I really am. But it’s so hard to let go of your father. I love him so much, you know? He’s the only man I’ve ever really loved. Maybe he’ll be the only man, too. I don’t know.” She let out a shaky breath. “But I see them everywhere. His girlfriend and him. It hurts, baby girl. It hurts so much. All I do now is cry. I’ve lost you, and I’ve lost your father.”

She paused to breathe for a moment. “There’s no room for me here anymore, darling. I think it’s best if I fly to Poland to your grandma. It just hurts to be here.”

“Please don’t go.”

Surprised, Noelle turned to look at where the quiet voice came from.

“Asher... what are you doing here?”

“I came to find you and to tell you that Rosalie and I have broken up. She helped me realize how much time I’ve wasted trying to push you away when I should have loved you harder.”

For a year, these were the words that Noelle had longed to hear. She had imagined this in her head over and over again, but now that the love of her life is finally saying these things, she doesn’t know what to say.

“Breaking up with you was the dumbest and most selfish thing I have ever done. It was honestly the biggest mistake of my life.” Noelle stood up and Asher walked closer to her. “I’m sorry, Noe. I’m sorry it took me so long to realize that I could never stop loving you. For a time, I thought that I did. But that was only because you were always there. Even when we weren’t together, you were still there. Even if I pushed you a million times, you tried to be with me a million and one times. You never gave up on me. On us. I’m sorry it took me so long, baby.”

He cupped her right cheek as his thumb wiped the tears that were falling on her gorgeous face. Sighing, she leaned into his hand. “I don’t know, Ash. I’m miserable not being with you, but won’t we be more miserable with each other? There’s too much history between us. What if we just end up hurting each other again?”

Asher wrapped his arms around her. She was so small compared to him. “There’s always going to be hurt, Noe. But there’s also always going to be love between us. You and I, we’re a team.”

“I - Laney -”

“Would have wanted us to be happy together. She didn’t live very long, but our little girl would have wanted her parents to be together. It would hurt her to see us like this.”

Looking up at him, Noelle tried to speak. “Ash, -”

“We still have our future to face together, cheer. Our wedding in Bora-bora... Our soccer team full of kids.” They both chuckled lightly at their childish plans. “Noe, we still have the rest of our lives to spend loving each other and helping each other heal from the pains of our past. Our daughter may not be with us anymore, but she will always be a part of us.”

Noelle thought for a long time. Is she really willing to go through being in a relationship with Asher once again? The answer was obvious. “Okay.”

A smile was forming on the blond man’s lips. “Okay?”

She nodded slowly. “Yes, okay. I want us to give our relationship another try again.” She returned his smile. “But...” The light expression faded from his face.

“But what?”

“Can we take it slow?”

“Whatever you want, love. We’ll take it on your pace.”

Smiling, Noelle hugged Asher tight. “I missed you.”

“And I, you.” Leaning back, the blond whispered. “Cheer?”

“Yes, Captain?”

“Thank you for never giving up on us. I love you so much.”

“I love you, too.”

At that moment, both Asher and Noelle felt a pair of little hands hugging them.

The couple knew that their little girl, wherever her soul may be, is happy that her parents are finally in each other’s arms once again... where they belong.

- fin -