Silently Falling

Chapter Sixteen (Edited 10/1/2020)

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Silently Falling: Chapter Sixteen

Alyse and I head back to the others after her random accusation that there is something going on between me and West. As we walk up, I discreetly watch West to see if there is any chance he overheard, or rather over-read, our conversation from across the room. Thankfully, he doesn't seem to be hiding any cocky smirks, so I think I'm in the clear. 

Everyone finishes up their drinks and soon we begin to part, but not before Gray, Tyler, and Toby make plans to hang out.

"West, man, you in? Ty's got a kickass media room where we play Apex Legends," Gray asks as we all head towards the door. "He's got an extra PS4 that he got from his grandma for Christmas, too."

"I still don't know how you finessed that one, Ty," Toby snorts. "Using your poor old Granny for an extra PS4."

"I would, guys, but I'm actually helping Raine with her song for Chorus," West says, pushing the door open with his shoulder and holding it open for the rest of us.

At that, everyone except for Alyse snap their eyes between me and West. They know the sentiment of my music, so I'm sure this is shocking to hear. Toby looks at me, narrowing his eyes for a second or two in confusion. He of all people knows the way I connect a lot of my music to mom, and my songs to the sorrows I've faced. 

I nod, agreeing with West. 

"You sure?" Tyler asks suddenly, "My place is always a good time, especially when my mom makes buffalo dip."

"Dude, your mom is making buffalo dip?" Gray asks, and I nearly snort at the sudden joy in his expression. "I love that stuff!" 

West pulls his keys from his pocket, "Hey man it sounds great and I appreciate the offer, but Raine's song is due tomorrow. Next time, I'm in."

"Yeah, sure definitely next time," Tyler says, only this smile doesn't seem as cheerful as usual. 

Toby glances at Alyse, "You in? If not I can drop you off at home."

She shrugs, "Sure. I'm always down to kick your ass in some videogames."

He snorts, "Oh is that so? When's the last time that happened?" 

I don't hide my smirk at their interaction, even catching Alyse's blush when she tries to hide it. 

"Sunshine? Ready to go?" West asks, nodding towards his Jeep.

I nod, "I'll see you guys later." Then, when the others start towards Toby's truck, I catch Alyse's eye and smirk, "Have fun 'kicking Toby's ass.'"

She smirks back at me, eyeing West who is waiting by his Jeep. "You too." 

I stick my tongue out at her from her insinuation, and she laughs as she jogs to catch up with the guys who are all waiting at Toby's truck for her. I head to West's Jeep and he opens the door for me, the muscles in his arm flexing for a moment as he tugs at the jammed door. I get in and he goes to his side, starting it up.

Almost instantly the radio starts playing at full blast. I flinch and cover my ears as he quickly turns the dial all the way down so that the music is at a dull whisper.

"Do you ever remember to turn it down before shutting off your car?" I sign.

He smirks, "Only time I forget is when I know you will ride with me."