Perfect Strangers

24| Bonding

Chapter 24 Bonding (Carter's POV)

It was now a week later. This Friday, there's a party at Clark's house. Which one thousand percent means there's no avoiding him. 

"Dad, seriously. I don't want to go," I shook my head. 

This entire week, Alex and I got closer, of course. We both are open and honest with each other which is something I admire about her and our relationship. 

I know it's only been a week, but I want to ask her to be my girlfriend. 

The only reason I haven't yet is because I know it's too soon. 

"I know that, Carter. But we have to go. He attended when I invited him, we must do the same. Bring Alex. She tends to keep you in check at these things. And she keeps you sober too," he mumbled the last bit. 

"I'm not taking her there," I shook my head. 

"Why not?" he questioned.

"Have you seen the way Clark acts around her? It's disturbing to look at. I don't want her where he is," I huffed. 

"Then find another date. You'll need one tonight." 

"Why?" 

"Just find a date. We're leaving at six." 

"And you're telling me this two hours before we have to leave. Thanks," I said sarcastically while getting off my bed and pulling my shoes on. 

"Where are you going now?" he sighed. 

"To tell her about tonight. I have to give her more than two hours." 

Do I really? 

I walked to her place and rang the bell. Her dad answered the door and let me in. Her dad has been so nice to me, he always has, but he has no problem with me coming over, staying the nights, staying with her in her room. 

I sometimes wonder if he allowed Hudson to do all that. And then I wonder if she did all the things she does with me when she was with him. I know they've kissed, they've probably done a lot more, but just thinking about that pisses me off. 

I knocked on her door before opening it and peeking my head in. She wasn't in her room but I could hear the shower water running. I sat down on her bed and looked around the room I was getting used to. I stared at the drawings that she stuck to her wall and found myself smiling. 

I've given her a lot over the time we've known each other. Especially this past week. 

The water stopped and moments later she opened the door and stepped out. She saw me and was, of course, surprised. "Hey, what are you doing here?" she asked while holding her towel. 

"I need a favor, I'm sorry in advance," I said. 

"Why what happened?" she asked while opening her closet. 

"There's a party tonight. At Clark's house. And um- I need a date. I wouldn't go if I could skip it but since I can't and I need a date, of course, I want it to be you. Will you come?" I asked. 

"Yeah, sure. What time?" 

"We leave at six," I answered. 

"Okay, I just need an hour. Any dress code?" she asked. 

I shook my head, "Just formal." 

She nodded while eyeing all the dresses that hung in her closet, ball gowns. I stood up and behind her, wrapping my arms around her waist, resting my chin on her shoulder. "That one?" she asked, pointing to a navy blue dress.