Month: September 2020

Move- Chapter 30 (The Final Chapter)

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 29 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

A Month Later

Aria stands in front of a painting of a beautiful woman. Caramel complexion, golden eyes, a red flowy dress, painted as if it’s whipping in the breeze. Her expression one of ease, yet determination in her craft. Arms and legs shaded and toned. A flower gently planted in her hair. Sexual, Sensual, Spiritual. All wrapped in this one being.

She stares at it in awe. Her golden brown eyes fall on the card posted to the side of the art work. Artist- Anonymous.

“Aria,” he says. And she immediately knows his voice.

She slowly turns and gives him a small smile.

“Liam,” she says.

“I’m surprised to see you here, Lov-” he says and stopping himself before finishing his word of adoration for her.

Aria looks away obviously uncomfortable, her hands folding in front of her chest.

“Sorry, habit,” he says smirking that sexy smirk.

Damn it, Aria thinks as her heart beat quickens just being near him.

Aria smiles simply. Poker face she thinks.

“You look…amazing,” he says his eyes looking her over, as she notices he can see her fidget under his gaze.

“So do you,” she says her eyes meeting his.

“Aria. I-” he begins to say.

“Look Liam, I don’t think I can do this, I’m gonna go, Congratulations on the new business,” she says turning away. Liam catches her hand. She freezes at the feel of his touch.

“You can’t what? You can’t talk to me?” he says not letting her off that easy.

“Look, we just don’t belong together, and we need to both just accept that and move on,” she says looking away from his intense glare.

“Oh you mean like you did with Marco?” he asks his jaw tightening at the mere thought of her with another man.

Aria looks at him, “That’s not…you don’t know what you’re talking about,” she says shaking her head at him and huffing.

“Aria we weren’t even broken up a week before you slept with him.” He says his eyes burning into hers.

Aria pulls her hand away from his, her eyes flickering a mixture of anger and offense.

“This conversation is over,” she says turning on her heel quickly, as she struts off.

Liam follows quickly after, his determination clear.

“Aria…. Hey…” he says yelling after her.

“You have no idea, what you’re talking about. I never slept with Marco. Maybe you should get your facts straight.” She says placing her hands on his chest and pushing him away.

Liam grabs her hands, holding them against him.

“You didn’t?” he says, his heart melting.

“Do you honestly think I could do that to you, to us? You and I…you meant more to me than that. I couldn’t just hop into bed with someone after what we had. And it sucks that you don’t know that.” She says rolling her eyes and pulling away from him.

“Hey,” he says pulling her back toward him, so close that they are breathing in the same air. “I’m sorry, I overheard people at the office saying how they knew he had a crush on you, and how he had been wanting to ask you out. I guess I just…I let my mind wander. Besides what am I supposed to think when you leave in the middle of the night after we have sex and you leave me a good bye note. I mean really love?” he says annoyed and not caring if he uses his sweet pet name for her.

“You know what Liam that just goes to show that you and I, we don’t know each other. And clearly we don’t trust each other,” she says glaring at him.

Her words hit Liam hard. “You don’t mean that,” he says wrapping his arms around her waist, as he leans in inches from her lips.

“Liam…don’t” she says her eyes flickering up to meet his.

“Would you stop me?” he says staring right into her soul.

Aria stills, she couldn’t move even if she wanted to. He wasn’t letting her go.

“Let’s find out,” he says brushing his lips against hers gently, and then kissing her passionately once he felt her relax into his arms.

Aria wraps her arms around his neck as Liam tightens his grip around her, his hands gripping her hips.

Suddenly Aria pulls away.

“Stop. What are we doing?” she says covering her mouth.

“Aria, I love you, ok, that hasn’t changed. Whatever issues there are between us, we can work them out.”

“I’m not sure that we can, Liam. All we do is go in circles. And nothing ever gets solved. It’s exhausting. I can’t do it anymore.”

“You don’t even wanna try? Do you not love me, anymore, is that it?”

Aria looks up at him, tears in her eyes.

“This isn’t about that.”

“I need to know Aria. Do you still love me?”

“I do love you. But our issues are bigger than you think. Liam you and I are from two entirely different worlds. You are used to having everything go your way, and everyone worshipping at your feet. I am used to the opposite. I’ve really had to work hard for what I have. And I’m not saying that you haven’t, but I need you to acknowledge your privilege. You grew up in a wealthy family. Money opens doors Liam. And I’m not trying to judge you for that, but that’s not how I live my life.”

“You’re acting like I throw money at everything Aria, that’s not fair. Since the day I met you, I’ve always respected you.”

“I know you called in a favor for the showcase, Jennifer Lopez was never scheduled to show,” she blurts out.

Liam stills, “Aria, let me explain…” he says reaching for her as his eyes soften and his voice drops.

“So what was it? Did you not have faith that I could get an offer on my own?”

“Of course not. I think you are incredibly talented. I just wanted to help increase your chances. I knew how much this all meant to you, how much Jennifer meant to you and I just-” He says as he sees the pain in her eyes.

“You know part of me thinks that maybe you’re ashamed of me. That maybe you agree with your mother and the rest of high profile society. That maybe you don’t necessarily think I’m cut out to be your wife the way that I am.”

“Aria…that could not be further from the truth. I adore you. I love you. All of you. Everything about you. I wouldn’t wanna change you, ever.  How could you even think that?” he says heartbroken.

Aria shrugs her shoulders.

“Look somewhere deep down, we both knew this thing had an expiration date.”

Liam laughs sarcastically, “Really? So every night that we made love and we’d exchange I love yous, that didn’t mean anything to you?” he says glaring at her.

“It fizzled. Liam. Ok. Just get over it.” She says.

“No. It hasn’t. It never will. And that’s why you’re pulling away. Because you’re scared. No I’m sorry, petrified.” He says his hands on his hips, challenging her. Pushing her into an emotional corner.

Aria looks at him, her eyes beginning to tear up.

“I get that this is a lot. I get that we are different. That you’re scared. I get scared sometimes too. Do you think I went to that event expecting to fall in love? This whole thing has made me into a completely different person. In the best possible way. I never expected to ever feel like this about someone. This connected. This in awe. You are everything I never knew I needed. And that is scary. Because I know when you love someone as much as I love you, there’s always that fear that now there’s something to lose. But Aria when I weigh it all out, the scariest thing I can think of, is not being with you. Because whether you want to believe it or not, you are the love of my life.”

Aria looks away, tears spilling onto her cheeks.

“Liam I just-”

“It’s ok, you don’t have to say anything right now. Take your time,” he says lifting her hand and placing an engagement ring in the center of her palm. “Call me when you’re ready to talk,” he says as he gives her a sweet kiss on the cheek before walking towards his little office in the back of the gallery.

Aria stands dumbfounded as she stares at the ring in her hand.

***

Aria walks into the art gallery. Late one night. Just before closing.

Liam spots her instantly as he excuses himself from the last few visitors lingering around.

“Good evening,” he says rather professionally, but a slight smirk on his face.

“Hi, do you have a second to talk?” she asks.

“For you? Always.” He says cocking his head toward the back room, as he leads the way, Aria follows.

Liam sits at the wooden desk, as he gestures to Aria, “Have a seat.”

Aria smiles and sits across from him.

“So what did you want to talk about? Is there a painting you’re interested in?” he says with a smile.

“This is all very business-y.” Aria says waving her hand between the two of them.

“Well, I know how you don’t like mixing business with pleasure, so I just assume you were here for a painting,” he says rubbing his hands together. A hint of a smirk playing on his lips.

“Don’t mess with me, Whitmore,” she says narrowing her gaze at him.

Liam laughs, “Oh see now I’m offended, you didn’t see anything that you liked?”

Aria gives him a sassy, annoyed look.

“I was talking about the art work, what did you think I meant?” he says with a smile.

Aria rolls her eyes rather dramatically and looks away with a huff.

“Hey,” he says his voice softening as he leans forward, “Just talk to me.”

“You know what, now that you mention it, there is a painting that I would like to inquire about.”

“Hmm, really?” Liam says with a smile, “Well by all means, lead the way.”

Aria walks ahead as Liam watches her hips sway, she calls over her shoulder, “Don’t think I don’t know what you’re doing?” she says as Liam chuckles and follows.

Aria and Liam stand in front of that same painting of the woman in red. By this time the gallery has fully emptied and Liam’s Coworker had left a note saying that she locked the door behind her.

“Look at this painting. Look at those colors. She’s such wonder. She’s so free and empowered. I wish I could dance like that. I wish I could just be half as mesmerizing as she is.”

Liam looks over at her, his eyes flickering a look of pure love, “You are.”

“Liam…you don’t have to-” she starts.

“I’m not. I’m just telling you the truth. The girl in the painting, she’s you.”

“What?” Aria says confused.

“You’re my muse.” He says smiling and shrugging.

“Wait you…you painted this?” she says looking at him in awe.

“Yea…” he says his voice above a whisper.

“Liam…it’s breathtaking. Honestly, I haven’t stopped thinking about it,” she says looking at the painting.

“Funny…the whole reason I started painting again was because I couldn’t stop thinking about you. Seeing you dance, watching your face light up, because you were doing something you loved, something you are so completely meant to do. You just sparked something in me. That, and you know you’ve got quite the body, love. I definitely had fun watching you from afar,” he says giving her that sexy smirk of his as his eyes glance her over.

“Hmm, isn’t that something stalkers usually say?” she says pursing her lips as she places her hands on her hips.

“Can I kiss you yet?” he asks breathlessly as he reaches for her.

Aria smiles and nods as Liam sighs, pulling her into a kiss.

“I love you so much, and I just wanna be with you,” Aria says looking up at him.

“I love you too, so much, so so much” he says cupping her face and kissing her again.

Aria smiles against his lips as they continue to kiss, each one more intense then the next.

“Take me home,” she whispers her hands sliding from his neck down to rest on his chest. Their eyes locked in a heated glare.

“You read my mind, love,” he says as he grabs her hand and pulls her toward the back door that leads to the parking area where his car waits.

“Wait…” he says stopping and turning toward her, “You promise me that this is it right? We’re really doing this? You and me? Forever?  Because I can’t keep losing you,” he asks cupping her face in his hands as he stares into her eyes.

“Forever,” Aria says as she leans in and presses her lips against his.

“Where’s that ring?” he whispers against her lips.

Aria pulls away and smiles as she reaches for the thin chain around her neck, she unclips it and slides off the ring handing it to him.

Liam stares at her his eyes filling, he smiles, as he kneels down on one knee.

“Aria, you are my everything. I cannot imagine my life without you. You ignite a light in me that I didn’t even know I had. I love you with everything I have, and I just want the chance to make you as happy as you’ve made me. Will you marry me?”

“Yes,” Aria says as the tears spring from her eyes, Liam’s smile is beaming. He slides the ring on her finger as it glistens in the florescent lights.

Aria cups his face as she pulls him up into a kiss.

***

Aria sits still on her and Liam’s marriage bed. Her left hand glistening a diamond ring and matching band. Her eyes land on their wedding photo on her nightstand.

Their wedding was planned rather quickly, it was simple, yet beautiful, with just a few close friends and family. Gertrude even attended and managed to muster up her congratulations. But there is still a long way to go in mending family fences. Evelyn “Sky” was the bigger person and started the conversation.

Aria’s bags are all packed and set by the door. Suddenly she feels unable to leave. Her heart heavy, her mind hazy.

But how can I leave for a year? We just got married? She thinks.

As if he could hear her inner thoughts Liam comes into the room, a small smile on his lips.

“Hey you, you about ready?” he asks and then his smiles turns to a look of concern when he sees the tears building in her eyes.

“Hey hey, Aria, love, what is it?” he says walking over to her as he kneels before her.

“I don’t feel right about this? About leaving you for a year. Seriously what was I thinking saying yes to this? We JUST got married,” she says standing up in frustration.

“Hey…we talked about this. You agreed to this before we got married. And it’s okay. We’re gonna be okay.”

“What if you resent me later for it?”

“That’s never going to happen.” He says shaking his head.

“What if you meet someone else when I’m gone and you realize she’s…?” she says, her eyes avoiding his.

“That’s NEVER gonna happen,” he says glaring at her sternly as he takes her hands in his. “Aria, we’re married. You’re my wife. The love of my life. This is forever.”

Aria nods.

“Being away from you is definitely not my ideal situation. But we’ll find a way to make it work. Like we always do….together.” he says, his voice low, his stare gentle.

Aria’s eyes soften as she melts into his arms.

“I love you,” she says hugging him tightly.

“I love you too,” he says smiling as he kisses her forehead. “And you know…there are a few things that you’re forgetting…” he says peering down at her.

Aria looks up at him expectantly, a puzzled expression on her face.

“Phone sex and frequent flyer miles, love.” He says with a sexy grin.

Aria throws her head back with a laugh.

“Absolutely,” she says raising her eyebrows and pulling him into a kiss.

***

3 Months Later…

Aria throws a pillow at her dance mate as she laughs.

There’s a knock at the door, “I’ll get it,” Aria says getting off the bed and reaching for the hotel door.

Aria’s face falls in shock as a smiling Liam leans against the hall way wall. A duffle bag at his feet.

“Liam!” she screams jumping into his arms.

Her dance mate peeks her head out from the closet.

“As in hot husband Liam?” she asks, hanging up her dance gear and joining them.

“Yes, in the flesh!” Aria says happily turning to him as she places her hands on his chest, “What are you doing here?”

“I had some downtime this month from the art gallery, so I figured, it’s been way too long since I’ve seen my wife in person.”

Aria pouts, her heart melting.

“Are you surprised?” he asks his smile big and bright.

“Yes, and I’m so incredibly happy!” she says doing a little dance.

Liam laughs as his eyes flicker a sign of all the love he has for her.

Aria turns to her roommate, “Hey…Monica, do you mind…”

“Leaving, so you guys can get it on? Yea I’m already gone,” she says laughing as she exits the room, closing the door behind her.

“Thank you!” Aria calls after her. She smiles once the door closes. Turning swiftly on her heel she faces Liam.

Sighing dramatically, they both fall into a passionate kiss as they frantically start to undress each other.

“I’ve missed you,” Aria says breathlessly against his lips as hotel sheets wrap them in their own private oasis.

“I’ve missed you too, my love. So much,” he says cupping her face in his hands and kissing her deeply. As if he was making up for all the time they’ve spent apart. Their bodies move together in perfect unison.

Liam reaches his hand for hers as he intertwines them above their heads, his wedding band glistening on his left hand. As her rings match the glisten with a sparkle of their own upon her hand as it grips his neck.

***

Aria and Liam lay on the hotel couch before a crackling fire. Wrapped up in comfy white hotel robes.

“So you’ve been over to see Yolanda, yes?” Aria asks looking over at Liam as she takes a sip of her wine.

“Yes. I stop by at least once a week,” he says nodding with a smile.

“How is she feeling? Any morning sickness?”

“Don’t you talk to her every day?” he says with a laugh.

“Yes, but I just wanna make sure she’s not downplaying things because she knows if she needs me, I’ll be there…”

“Aria, baby. She is doing really well. No morning sickness. But love you’re forgetting something. Both you and Yolanda, have husbands now.” He says with a smile.

“Ugh, baby I know. I love you, and I am so grateful I bumped into you that day at that catering event,” she says with a laugh as she cups his face. “But…it was just Me, Yolanda and Layla for a while and they were really my only family. Before I met you, they were the ones that got me through everything. I guess I just want to make sure that they know I would drop everything for them, the same way they always did for me.”

“They know. Don’t worry, they know.” Liam says with a sweet smile as he lifts her hand to place a kiss on it.

“And how’s Layla? I know she got her own place. Is it as cute as the pictures she sent? Did you hang those shelves for her? And-”

“Mounted the TV, put together her futon, made sure her locks were secure and that all of her smoke detectors had batteries….yes,” Liam says smiling at his wife as he lists all his brother in law duties.

Aria pouts, “I’m being a nag, aren’t I?”

“No, I know you worry about your family, but baby, I’ve got them. They’re my family now too, love,” he says looking at her in a way that gives her butterflies still til this day.

“Ugh,” she says grabbing his face into her hands, “God, I love you,” she says giving his a sweet kiss on his lips.

Liam smiles against her lips, “I love you too,” he whispers. “So…while we’re on the subject of family…I was just wondering…when do you wanna start making some little ones of our own?” he asks his eyes full of wonder.

“Hmm,” Aria says making a surprised yet intrigued expression. “I don’t know. I mean, I feel like my career is just finally taking off…”

“Do you not want to have kids?” Liam asks, his eyes casting down.

“Of course I do. I just don’t think I have a timeline in mind for that yet. But we can definitely start talking about it.” She says with a smile.

“Mmm how about we table that conversation for now. We can revisit it after the tour ends.”

“Hey, I didn’t mean to upset you, I do want a family with you,” she says cupping his face in her hands.

“Well good.” He says with a chuckle. “Now, how about I just kiss you until I have to leave?” he smirks covering her lips with his as he pulls the rope on her robe.

Aria moans in agreement as she wraps her body around his once more.

Their love continuing to grow with each kiss, each breath, each movement.

A love story…that has only just begun.

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-The End-

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 29

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 28 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Aria and Liam fall into bed after a long busy, exciting day.

“I am beat,” Aria says.

“I bet you are,” he says flopping down next to her, he turns toward her a big smile on his face.

“What?” she says laughing as she looks at him.

“I’m so proud of you,” he says cupping her face. “You were absolutely brilliant.”

“Thank you,” she says placing her hands on his chest, “You were my inspiration,” she says smiling and looking up at him.

Liam sighs as he leans in pressing his lips against hers. “It was all you, love,” he whispers.

Aria kisses him as they snuggle together, drifting off to a quick sleep.

***

Aria and Liam had quite the busy next few months. Aria had a great meeting with Jennifer Lopez and was in talks to be her new back up dancer. Liam began painting more and more and meeting with new artists all over New York City. He’s been training his replacement and is planning to open his own art gallery for upcoming artists. But the social events have been plenty and the weight of their different worlds began to become really clear to Aria. And although she hasn’t said it, Liam has felt her pulling away.

Sitting on their bed staring ahead, Aria’s hands in her lap. A bag packed beside her.

She hears the door to the apartment open.

“Hey love, I’m home. I cannot tell you how beastly my day was. All I kept thinking about was how I cannot wait to come home and kick off my shoes and hold you in my arms and watch some crummy reality show with you. Aria? Sweetheart? Are you home?” he says when he is not met with his favorite smiling face.

Liam wanders throughout the house.

He stands at their bedroom doorway.

“Hey Love, Are you ok?”

Aria looks at her hands and wills herself to stand up.

Liam looks at her confused.

“Liam. I love you. I do. But-“

Liam looks down and sees her suitcase.

His eyes begin to water.

“Stop,” he says holding up his hand.

“Liam-“

“Love, please just stop. Because I can sense where this is going and I can’t hear it. I don’t want to hear it.”

“This hurts me just as much as it hurts you, trust me.” Aria says tears building in her eyes.

“Then don’t say it,” he says shaking his head.

“Liam,” she says walking to him and grabbing his face as he tries to look away.

“I can’t do this anymore. I’m sorry, our worlds are just…too different,” she kisses him softly as her tears blend with his.

Aria turns her back to him as she walks to get her bag.

Liam’s tears spill over.

“Aria?”

She turns as her own tears stream down her face.

“Please don’t,” she says shaking her head.

“I love you. Stay with me, please. We will figure all of this out, together. I promise you.”

“I love you too. So much. But we’re too different. I see how much strain our relationship has put on you and your mother. I know we think she’s trying but let’s be real she hates me. And I think it’s really convenient how Laura Lynn happens to be at every single social gathering.”

“Aria, she means nothing to me, love. You know that.”

“It’s not just that, I can’t be responsible for destroying what’s left of your family.”

“You are my family, Aria. I love that we’re different. That’s what makes it so exciting,” he says grabbing her waist and pulling her toward him.

“I’m sorry, Liam. It’ll never work. And I just can’t keep thinking that it will. Because it is wrecking me.” She says crying.

“Wrecking you? Aria you have consistently pledged your love to me and this relationship only minutes before telling me you can’t do this. Over and over again. So no, I’m the one who keeps getting my heart ripped out. You’re wrecking me Aria. And your right it won’t work. But not because of money or circumstance. Not because we’re too different. Not even because of my mother. But because you won’t give us half a chance. Because maybe the truth is you just don’t want to.”

“That is not true. I’ve tried…”

Liam looks at her and tugs her toward him swiftly placing a kiss on her lips

Aria’s mind is hazy as her lips are held in un-expectant pleasure.

Her lips find a rhythm against his.

Liam pulls away to catch his breath.

“Try harder,” He whispers, his tone breathy and sexy.

Aria looks up at him and pulls him into another kiss as Liam smiles against her lips, as his hands cup under her legs and lift her up and over to the bed.

Aria rips open his shirt as smiles wrapping her arms and legs around his body.

However later that night, she snuck out and left a note that read, “That was the perfect goodbye.”

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 28

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 27 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Liam and Aria walk into their apartment, Aria takes off her heels and tosses them to the floor.

“Ah, those things have been killing me all night!” she says plopping down on the couch as she rubs her feet, wincing in pain.

“Hmmm, maybe there’s something I can do to help,” Liam says sitting down next to her and pulling her legs across his lap, as he begins to massage her feet.

“What are you- Oh, god that feels good,” she says falling back onto the couch amongst the throw pillows.

Liam chuckles.

“Seriously, where have you been hiding this talent?” she says placing her hands behind her head as she closes her eyes, slipping into relaxation mode.

“Well I guess I figured I’d end up in the dog house again soon, so I was saving it to use it to my advantage,” he says smiling sheepishly.

Aria opens her eyes and smiles up at him.

“Liam,” she says softly taking his hand.

“Aria I’m so sorry I didn’t tell you, it happened so long ago. I didn’t even give it a second thought once I met you.”

“Ok, look can I be completely honest with you?”

“Please do,” he says as Aria sets her feet on the floor and looks at him.

“I love you.” She says taking his hands in hers. “And I want this to work. But we have a lot of things to talk about. Big things that can affect this relationship in the long run.”

“I know and I am open to discussing all of it with you,” Liam says bringing his hands to her face.

“I get you not disclosing all details of your past when we were just starting out. But Liam, we’re living together now. You should have told me.”

“I know, love,” he says shaking his head.

“It just kinda worries me, because I am trying to understand you. But I mean it all seems a little suspicious. You seem to have a reputation of moving too quickly with women. You asked me to marry you too, Liam. And if I had said yes, would that have been the beginning of the end for us? If you could get over Laura Lynn that quickly, what’s keeping you with me? This all just makes my fears of being a way for you to sow your oats before you settle down with the real thing, come flooding back. I mean is that what you do?”

“Aria, absolutely not. I love you more than anything, more than anyone. My engagement with Laura Lynn was years ago. I was still in college. It was more about my parents trying to marry me off, because they knew I would be taking over the business one day and they wanted me to have what they called a “suitable wife.” They wanted me to marry young so that my wife could get familiar with the way things worked.”

“Wow, so what happened? Why did the relationship end?”

“Well Laura Lynn and I never felt right to me. I always felt like she was putting on a show for my parents. Like in front of them she was all unicorns and rainbows and then when we were alone, she was icy and withheld her emotions.”

“Hmm that explains why you have trouble expressing how you feel sometimes,” Aria says smiling simply at Liam, as she places her hand at the nape of his neck.

Liam looks at her, his eyes soft, he sighs as he picks up her legs and places them across his lap again, continuing to massage her sore feet.

“So how did it end? Did you end it or did she?” Aria says rubbing his neck.

“She did. She cheated on me,” Liam says as his eyes drift down to her feet, his fingers working their magic, Aria sighs with pleasure, and then stops his hands, “Hey stop it, look at me,” she says as their eyes meet.

“That’s awful. And I frankly don’t understand it. You are wonderful,” she says cupping his face in her hands.

“Thank you, love,” Liam says with a smile.

“Liam, I just don’t understand though, if she cheated on you, why didn’t you break up with her?”

“I had never felt a strong emotional connection to Laura Lynn, but it was all about saving face and keeping up with the joneses. My mother pushed the relationship.”

“Oh god, why? I mean I’m sorry but forcing your son to marry someone he doesn’t love, someone who cheats on him, it’s ghoulish,” she says with sadness in her eyes.

“Yea. And so when I found out she was cheating, I sort of let her just make the call for the break up. And we told the public we just decided we were better as friends.”

“Ugh oh my god Liam, I hate all of that. That’s so…calculated. You should be able to love who you want.” She says her hands falling to his chest.

Liam’s eyes lock onto hers, “I agree, and believe me when I say love, I fully intend to do so from now on,” he says leaning in and kissing her with intense passion.

Aria falls into his kiss as their lips battle each other for access.

Aria climbs into his lap, straddling him. Liam’s hands begin sliding up her thighs slipping under her emerald, silk dress.

“Mmm, does this mean I’m forgiven,” he whispers against her lips.

“Yes,” she says placing her finger on his lips, “Now shut up and make love to me,” she says covering his lips with hers.

Liam groans as he lifts her in his arms, walking them toward their bedroom.

***

Liam wakes up to find a sleeping Aria next to him. He smiles as he leans down placing sweet kisses all over her bare back.

Aria stirs as she wakes, a smile on her face.

“Good Morning, my love,” she says.

“Mmm it is a good morning in deed, love” he says smirking.

“You know if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you kinda like having me live here,” Aria says with a big smile as she turns toward him.

“Oh I more than like having you here. I mean quite honestly it’s the smartest decision I’ve ever made,” he says placing a cute peck on her lips.

“Mmm, I love these lips,” Aria says squeezing his chin in her hands, as she kisses him again.

“I love all of you,” Liam says peering at their naked bodies under the sheets.

Aria gasps as he raises an eyebrow at her, “Really?” she asks.

“Yea let me show you how much,” he says kissing her deeply.

“Ugh Liam, 15 minutes ok? 15 minutes, then I have to shower for the showcase! It starts at 4!” She says shrieking.

“Mmm, I can make that work, besides just think of it as your warm up,” he says smirking as he kisses her neck and Aria laughs wrapping her arms around him.

***

Aria grabs her dance bag and a Gatorade as Liam grabs his keys and opens the apartment door for her.

The whole ride over Aria is silent. In her head.

“Hey…baby, you ok?” Liam says looking over at her, his hand resting on her knee.

“Yea,” Aria says rather unconvincingly.

“Aria?” he says his tone knowing.

“I don’t know. I just, the only thing I can hear in my head is “This is your last shot, Aria.” And it’s literally on a loop. I don’t know if I can do this, Liam,” she says starting to breathe harder, her nerves at an all-time high.

Liam notices and pulls over, bringing the car to a stop.

“Hey…hey, love….Aria look at me, you’ve got this. I’ve seen your routine you put your whole heart into it. You are insanely talented. Trust that. You can do this. I believe in you.” He says taking her hands in his.

Aria softens, “I really needed to hear that, thank you,” as she says hugging him tightly.

“Anytime,” he says hugging her close to him, soothing her.

“I love you so much, go in there and kick ass,” he says smiling at her.

“I love you,” she says grabbing his face in her hands and placing a big peck on his lips.

***

Aria stands back stage dressed in her dance costume. Black high waisted disco pants, a black bralette, a red leather jacket, and red lipstick.

Her heart beating a mile a minute.

She tightens her hands into fists and closes her eyes.

She peeks her head out, peering into the audience.

She sees Liam and her girl gang sitting together, as Evelyn “Sky” makes her way toward them, they all stand to greet her, with happy, excited smiles.

Aria turns and takes a deep breath in.

“Just breathe. Don’t over think it. Just feel the music,” she whispers to herself.

A woman dressed in business attire, takes the stage, with a bright smile and a spunky spirit.

Yolanda leans over to Liam, “Hey how was she this morning, we spoke last night but I felt like she wasn’t telling me the truth and when I texted her this morning I got a pretty general response.”

“She’s nervous, I could tell. But I think she’s got this.” He says smiling.

“You bet your ass she’s got this,” Layla says butting into their conversation.

“Hello, and welcome to the 30th Anniversary showcase of New York Dance Academy!!!” she yells as the crowd claps and cheers loudly. “We have an incredible group of performers this year. They have a bit of a little extra spark in them.”

Liam smiles as he and the girl gang clap and cheer.

“Now let’s welcome esteemed guests, New York Dance Academy’s very own Professor Joanne McNary, Dance show talent scout Frida Loseeyo, and Actress and dancer Jenna Dewan.”

The crowd cheers loudly as the guests all smile and wave.

The back door opens as two large men walk in before a fabulously dressed woman. She’s wearing an all-black ensemble with the hat and sunglasses to match. She and the two men sneak into the back row. Unnoticed by the roaring, preoccupied crowd.

“First up, we have Aria Lenz, with a contemporary piece,” the crowd claps as Liam and Aria’s crew cheer and clap loudly.

The velvet red curtain rises as Aria stands in the center of the stage. Posed. The music begins, beating loudly through the theater. A medley of Jennifer Lopez’s greatest dance hits. Aria moves, nailing each move with precision. Her expression one of pure determination. Her eyes laser focused. Her mind clear as she feels each movement, following through.

The crowd clapping and hollering as Liam and all of Aria’s friends watch with pride and awe.

Aria strikes her last super star pose as the song ends and the crowd jumps to their feet.

Aria let’s out the breath she’s been holding as she smiles brightly.

The host of the evening joins her on the stage, “Ok, wow! Ms. Lenz way to kick this night off with a bang!” she says smiling as she puts an arm around Aria’s shoulders.

“Thank you,” Aria says out of breath.

“So Aria, how long have you been dancing?”

“Ever since I could walk,” she says with a laugh.

“It shows doesn’t it?” the announcer asks the crowd as they cheer.

“Ok Aria let’s get you back stage and we will see you a little later,” the woman says as Aria nods and waves to the crowd with a big smile as she rushes off the stage.

***

Liam rushes back stage to meet her.

“Aria! That was incredible!” he says beaming as he picks her up, swinging her around as she squeals.

“Really?” she says out of breath as he sets her down.

“Absolutely love. I am in awe of your talent.” He says smirking as he cups her face looking into her eyes lovingly.

“Thank you!” she says smiling as she places a big smooch on his lips.

“Let’s go celebrate after, huh? Wherever you want!” he says happily.

“Well I mean let’s hear the critiques first,” she says laughing.

“Are you kidding me love? Did you hear the crowd after you finished. You had them the minute that curtain opened,” he says with a big proud smile.

“It was kind of amazing wasn’t it?” Aria says smiling happily as he tightens his arms around her.

“YOU were amazing. I mean Aria, seriously I have no words. I’m so proud of you.” He says beaming.

Aria looks up at him her eyes full of love, she pulls him into a sweet kiss.

“I’m gonna call and make a reservation at that really good, Italian place you love, OK? You’ve got this in the bag, love,” he bringing her hands up to his lips, and placing a kiss on them, as he sends her a wink,” before he heads back toward his seat.

Aria smiles brightly as she lets out a sigh.

***

“We have seen so many amazing performances today,” the announcer says, “and now for the feedback portion of the showcase. Our esteemed guests will critique each performer. Constructively of course. It’s all about trying to make you a better dancer.” She says as the guests nod in agreement.

“Ok up first let’s bring Aria Lenz back to the stage,” she says as the crowd cheers and Aria walks back out with a smile from ear to ear.

“Ok…Professor McNary, thoughts?”

“Hello Aria.”

“Hi Professor,” she says her nerves kicking in.

“Aria I am really very impressed with how far along you’ve come. I’ve watched your determination from the very beginning of you starting with the academy. You have such effortless talent to begin with and then when you put your mind to a routine you crush it. I know it was hard work, but you got there. You are an incredible talent. Excellent job.”

Aria smiles her thanks as the crowd cheers. Liam, Yolanda, Layla and the rest of her girl gang clapping and hollering.

“Ok and talent scout Frida Loseeyo,” the announcer says.

“Aria Aria ARIA. That performance, was mucho caliente. You bring such fire and passion to the way you dance. Your professor is right you make it look effortless. Amazing.”

The crowd cheers again as Aria smiles her thanks. Her face red with excitement.

“And our celebrity guest- Actress and dancer, Ms. Jenna Dewan!” the announcer says excitedly.

“I have to be honest Aria, I did not like that performance,” she says with a stern expression.

Aria’s face falls, as the crowd falls silent.

“I LOVED IT!” Jenna yells as a smile flashes across her face.

Aria let’s out a sigh of relief as she laughs.

“Honestly your technique is almost flawless, I can’t say it’s 100% because as a dancer, I always strive to be better than the last time, so even as a professional dancer myself, I don’t say my dancing is 100%. There’s always things to learn, and things to study to increase your skill, your craft. But you honey are insanely talented. I expect you’ll be getting many offers after this showcase. And I will say they are all well-deserved!”

Liam jumps out of his seat, “WOOOOOO!!!” he cheers as the crowd laughs and claps along.

Aria laughs on stage as she covers her face.

“We have some excited audience members,” the announcer says with a laugh. “Stellar reviews Ms. Lenz! Why don’t you head backstage and enjoy all the praise.” She says smiling as Aria bows her head and clasps her hands in praise and gratitude for the kind critiques.

***

Aria and the rest of the performers enter the after party portion of the showcase where audience members can chat with them and ask questions and talent scouts can discuss potential offers with them.

“There she is!” Yolanda screams as she and Layla rush over hugging Aria tightly.

“Oh my god, I am so proud of you!” Yolanda says in her motherly tone.

“Seriously Ari, you SLAYED that routine!” Layla said, as the rest of the girls get their hugs in as well.

“Thank you all so much for coming and for being so supportive during my insane dance schedule.” Aria says smiling. “I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, finally,” she says with a huge smile.

Matt and Allie’s boyfriend Colin come over with some snacks for everyone.

“Aria, you were amazing!” Matt says.

“Seriously so great!” Colin says with a smile.

“Aw, thanks so much you guys, I’m so glad you came!” Aria smiles as she and Liam fall into their natural embrace.

“It was an honor to be a part of such a huge moment,” Matt says as Yolanda smiles up at him, placing a kiss on his cheek.

***

Aria and her fandom all sit at a big table in a nicely decorated Italian restaurant.

“A toast,” says Allie, as she raises her glass, “to the girl of the hour, you have all the hottest talent agents in the business just fighting to represent you, and as professional dancer Jenna Dewan said, “it is well deserved,” to Aria,” she says.

“To Aria,” they all say in unison as they clink their glasses.

“I cannot believe how quickly this day, came and went. I feel like I have been working towards this my whole life. It just feels so surreal.”

“Well it’s real, love, soak it all in,” Liam says smiling, as he leans in and places a kiss on her cheek.

Aria smiles. Looking around she feels like all her dreams are finally coming true.

A nearby door opens and in walks a mystery woman accompanied by two large men. Dressed fabulously in an all-black ensemble with the hat and sunglasses to match.

All eyes turn toward her, she’s heading right toward their table. The woman walks over to stand right before Aria, her head down, she lifts it up, and removing her sunglasses she smiles.

Aria’s face falls. She’s speechless.

Yolanda and Layla grab hands in shock, “Um Aria…that’s Jennifer Lopez. You’re Jennifer Lopez,” Layla says in shock. The rest of the table starring in awe. All except Liam.

“Hi there. Aria, right? She says holding out her hand.

Aria nods, shaking her hand, she’s still in a state of shock. Unable to fully register what’s currently happening.

“That was an incredible performance you gave.” Jennifer says smiling.

“You…you saw….that?” Aria says barely getting the words out.

“Yea, a friend of mine told me about you, said I had to come see you perform. And I have to say, he was right. You are insanely talented.”

“Thank you so much, Jennifer Lopez.” Aria says like a giddy fangirl.

Jennifer laughs, “Listen, I’m going on tour in a few months, and I’m looking for some new dancers to mix things up. I’d really love to meet up and discuss a possible offer. If you’re interested?” she says handing Aria a business card.

“I-um- yes- yes. I’m interested. I’m so interested.” Aria says in complete awe as she takes the card from her.

The girls all squeal grabbing onto each other.

“Great, that’s my personal assistant’s card. Give her a call tomorrow and she’ll set up a meeting for us to go over some details, and we can take it from there,” Jennifer says smiling.

“Yes, I will definitely do that. Thank you Ms. Jennifer Lopez,” Aria says still completely star struck.

“Just call me Jen,” she says with a laugh, “We’ll talk soon,” she says smiling as she places her sunglasses back on, “Pleasure meeting you all,” she says with a smile toward the table of friends.

They all wave in awe as she walks out her body guards following closely behind.

“Oh. My. GOD!” Aria says as she squeals, jumping up as the whole table erupts in screams and smiles, running toward her for congratulatory hugs.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 27

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 26 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Liam makes his way around the gala, glancing at the stunning visuals around him. His eyes sparkling, his hands in his pockets. As his glance falls on Aria and Gertrude chatting with some people. Aria and Gertrude share a laugh as Liam smiles, letting out a small sigh of relief.

“You always were a sucker for the abstract?” a female voice says from behind him.

Liam turns and is met with that same leggy blonde Gertrude had secretly signaled from earlier.

“Laura Lynn Jones,” Liam says slightly confused by her presence, but remaining his usual polite self.

“Hey handsome,” she says with a flirty smile. “It’s been a while.”

“Yea, it’s been a while,” he says his eyes scanning the room for Aria.

Laura Lynn notices, and grabs his hand in hers, “Liam, could we have a chat, please, I just hate the way we left things the last time we spoke.”

“Laura Lynn it’s all water under the bridge,” he says pulling his hand from hers, “now if you’ll excuse me I need to go find my date,” he says walking off to find Aria.

Laura Lynn’s eyes follow, as she huffs.

Liam strolls effortlessly over to where Aria and Gertrude stand, “Hello, good evening all,” he says extending his hand to each of the fellow high profile buyers. “Good to see you,” he says nodding, “If you’ll excuse us, I would like to just steal a dance with my date here,” he says taking Aria’s hand.

“Excuse us, so nice to meet you all,” Aria says with a smile.

Liam smiles simply as he wraps his arms around her waist.

“Hi, miss me?” she says smiling up at him, as her arms circle around his neck.

“Desperately,” he says placing a sweet kiss on her forehead.

Gertrude’s beady eyes glare at them as she stalks over to the leggy blonde who watches from the bar.

“What happened? You were supposed to get him alone, while I distracted the girl,” Gertrude says annoyed.

“He didn’t give me the time of day, someone’s still sour about our breakup,” Laura Lynn says rolling her eyes and crossing her arms.

“Well do something. Quick. I will not have my son, parading around with a girl like that,” she says walking off in a huff.

***

Laura Lynn let’s out a sigh as she struts over to the bar where Liam stands grabbing a few drinks.

“That’s quite a girl you’ve got there,” she says whispering in his ear as her chest grazes his shoulder. Any closer and she’d be in his lap.

“Yes, her name is Aria, she’s the love of my life,” he says looking at her with clear intent as he shifts over and away from her.

Aria saunters out of the Ladies room in time to catch the exchange.

She watches and smiles as Liam puts distance between them while he waits for their drinks.

She smiles to herself as she walks over to him, she places herself in between the blonde and Liam, “Hi baby,” she says kissing him.

“Hey love,” he says smiling at her as he kisses her once more.

“Oh, hi,” Aria says pretending like she’s just now noticing Laura Lynn, “Where are my manners, I’m Aria, Liam’s girlfriend,” she says extending her hand with confidence.

“Hi, Laura Lynn, charmed,” Laura Lynn says shaking her hand gingerly. A fake smile planted on her lips.

“So uh, how do you two know each other?” Aria says smiling, her eyes challenging Laura Lynn, as she drapes an arm around Liam’s broad shoulders. His arm sliding around her waist, pulling her in closer to him.

Laura Lynn notices and decides to get even, “Oh I’m sure Liam mentioned it. We were engaged. Oh but that was years ago,” she says with a fake little laugh.

Aria freezes, as her face falls, and her body tenses against Liam’s. Her arm falling from his shoulders.

“That’s not exactly the whole truth,” Liam says with a sigh as he turns to Aria.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to cause any trouble. I just assumed that was something a couple discussed. I’ll leave you two alone,” she says turning on her heel, and walking away, a smile of vindication on her lips.

“Aria, love, please just listen to me,” he says carefully as he reaches for her.

“I just, um,” she holds a hand up, “I just need a minute,” she says turning and walking away.

Liam sighs as he throws back his drink.

***

Liam stands off in the side patio of the first floor. Drink in hand as he gazes out at the green garden lands.

Aria walks up behind him.

“Hey,” she says.

Liam turns slowly and faces her, “Hey,” he says cautiously.

“I’m sorry, a lot was running through my mind and I didn’t want to do react impulsively.”

“No that’s ok, you needed a minute to process and I understand, fully. I just hope that you’ll let me tell you the full story Aria. Because baby, you really don’t know what happened.” He says nervously as he walks toward her.

“I want to hear it all. Because Liam, I have to be honest my first instinct was to storm right out of those doors. Because I couldn’t understand how you wouldn’t tell me something as big as you being engaged.”

“I know- love- but if you just-”

Aria holds up her hand, “I’m not done.” Liam stops talking.

“Look, I want to hear you out. And I will. But not here. I know this night is a big deal for you and well, from the looks of it, Laura Lynn obviously had an agenda. So I’m going to be the bigger person and not let it get to me. Let’s just enjoy the rest of the night and the amazing art, and talk when we get home.”

“When we get home, huh?” he says with a cheeky little smile.

“Yea, why are you kicking me out already?” she says placing her hands on her hips, with sass and a flirty smirk.

“Not in the slightest, love,” he says shaking his head slightly as he reaches for her hand.

“Ok, then, good,” she says smiling up at him as he pulls her toward him, her arms falling onto his biceps.

“God, I love you,” he says smirking down at her.

Aria smiles up at him, as he leans in, kissing her.

Gertrude and Laura Lynn exchange aggravated glances as they watch from across the ballroom.

Liam deepens their kiss, as he groans against her lips.

Aria laughs, “Mmm mm naughty boy, not again,” she says pushing him away.

“Ugh, but you make it so hard not to want you,” he says pulling her back toward him.

“Hey, hey,” she says laughing and pulling his hands from her butt, “Let’s go buy some art,” Aria says grabbing his hand and pulling him back toward the ballroom.

“I’m already looking at the finest piece of art here,” he says smirking at her, his eyes flickering that knowing glare.

She turns toward him, and purses her lips at him, “Nice one,” she says with a chuckle.

Liam laughs as she leads them toward the nearest art display.

“They are laughing and acting all lovey dovey. Clearly what you did, didn’t work!” Gertrude says stalking away from Laura Lynn with a sour expression.

Laura Lynn sighs in defeat.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 26

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 25 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

“Are you sure you have everything?” Yolanda says looking around at Aria’s nearly empty room.

“Yea, I think so, if not…I mean, I’ll be back to visit,” She says smiling.

“No I know, I just want to make sure you have everything you need,” Yolanda says smiling.

“Thanks Yoyo, always looking out.”

“Are you sure you don’t want to just stay these last few nights before the showcase? I mean I thought the original plan was to move in with Liam after?” Yolanda says slightly worried.

“I know, but now that you and Matthew are trying to build your life together, I just figured you could use the extra room,” Aria says smiling.

“Yea, well we still have some things to iron out…” Yolanda says smiling.

“Hey, Yoyo, you ok?” Aria asks.

“Yea, no, yea. I just um, we were so impulsive with everything and now that the initial adrenaline has died down, I can’t help but feel like I should have planned things out a little better. I never thought I’d ever do something crazy like this.”

“Hey…you and Matt will figure it out,” Layla says draping an arm over her sister’s shoulders as she lays her head on her shoulder.

“I’m just worried. I mean there are so many things couples usually discuss before they get married ya know? And Matt and I just bulldozed through all those big conversations.”

“Hey, you are always so careful about everything. You weigh the positives and negatives of every situation. You do something crazy for the first time in your life and you think you’re doomed.” Aria says laughing. “Just think about it with a different filter. Instead of thinking about all the things you think can go wrong. Think about all the things that can and already have gone right. I mean you get to wake up to a sexy, smart, sweet man every morning. I would call that a win,” Aria says laughing.

“Agreed. I think you and Matt are gonna be fine,” Layla says smiling.

A knock is heard as Aria walks over to it, she opens it to find a smiling Liam.

“Hey love, you about ready?” he says waving hello to the ladies.

“Hi, yes,” she says giving him a cute peck on the lips, “Will you help me?” she asks.

“Of course, and I brought reinforcements,” he says as Matt walks in.

“Matt, Hey…hi honey.” Yolanda says her face lighting up.

“Hello gorgeous,” he says smiling as he leans in and gives her a kiss.

“I figured the least I could do was help my new cousin in law move in with her guy,” he says with a sweet smirk.

“That’s so sweet of you, Thank you Matt.” Aria says with a warm smile.

“Of course, we’re family now,” Matt says nodding.

Layla smiles at the scene in front of her.

“So uh, boxes in the bedroom?” Matt asks as Aria nods and the guys head that way.

***

“Ok so that was the last of it babe,” Liam says as he and Matt walk back up from bringing Aria’s boxes down to the car.

“Ok, well, um…” Aria says rubbing her hands on her thighs nervously.

“Let’s have one last celebratory toast, huh?” Layla says passing out flutes of champagne.

“To new beginnings?” Layla says raising her glass.

“To new beginnings,” they all say in unison as they clink their flutes.

***

Aria and Liam finish unpacking her last box.

“Welcome home, love.” He says smiling over at her.

Aria squeals as she jumps into his arms.

Liam laughs as his lips find hers.

“I can’t believe you’re actually here with me. For good.” He says smiling like a buffoon.

“Oh, be careful what you wish for boy. I can be quite annoying to live with.” She says laughing.

“Mmm mmm, there isn’t anything I don’t love about you,” he says kissing her softly and slowly, as Aria sighs against his lips.

***

Liam walks into their bedroom and hands Aria a cup of coffee as she sits up in bed, looking at some dance footage she took during one of her last practices.

“Mmm, thank you baby,” she says smiling as she gives him a quick peck.

“So…um can I talk to you, for just a minute?” he asks nervously.

Aria’s eyes shoot up, “Oh no, am I already driving you crazy?” she says wincing.

“No, no, love you’re perfect. I mean you are driving me crazy in different ways. But I have no complaints whatsoever,” he says smirking.

“Ah, good to hear,” Aria says wagging her eyebrows.

Liam laughs.

“What’s up?” Aria asks more casually as she sets her laptop aside.

“So…I know you aren’t into the whole rich scene, but there is this gala that I have to attend Friday night. And I was hoping that you would be able to accompany me. It’s for a really great opportunity and-”

“I’ll go,” she says smiling up at him.

“Really?” he says puzzled. “I for sure thought I’d have to do some major convincing.”

“Why?” Aria says laughing.

“Well it’s just given what happened at the last event…I thought…”

“Well, I happen to only look at the positives of that night, and at how they led us to where we are now, besides things went well at dinner,” she says with a sweet smile and a shrug.

Liam sighs, “I love you so much, you know that?”

“Yes, I do. And I love you too,” Aria whispers as she places a sweet kiss on his lips.

***

Liam and Aria walk up the long granite staircase. Dressed to the nines.

Aria in a long silky, fitted emerald green gown and Liam in a black crisp tux, with a black button down and black tie. He always wore some variation of the same thing, but he never failed to look hot as ever.

The minute the large golden doors open, Aria’s eyes are met with flashing lights. Photographers calling Liam’s name. “Turn this way, Mr. Whitmore!” “Over here!” “Who’s your date?” “She’s a new look for you!”

Aria instantly feels offended, her stomach twisting into a knot.

This is their first official public appearance in the lime light and Aria hadn’t realized how nervous she actually was until Liam leans over and whispers in her ear, “Hey love, everything ok?”

Aria snaps out of her day dream and back into reality, “Huh, yea I’m good, why?” she says trying to act like she isn’t internally freaking out.

“Nothing, it’s just you seem a little tense, well that and your grip on my hand is kind of intense,” he says with a sweet smirk.

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” she says looking down and letting go of his hand.

“Don’t be.” He says noticing her nervous tick. She’s biting her lip and fidgeting with her hands.

“Hey, just be you, that’s all I want, that’s all I need,” he says with a reassuring smile.

Aria’s face softens as her eyes melt into his. He leans in and places a slow, sweet kiss on her lips. And the cameras click, flashing desperately. The tension releasing from her body at the feel of his touch.

Liam smiles as he takes her hand leading her into the glitzy party.

“Wow,” Aria says her eyes scanning the room.

An art gala. For new and upcoming artists. Their work displayed and being auctioned off to the highest bidder. Liam’s home away from home. Unique art blending all forums, mixing shapes and colors and angles.

Gertrude’s eyes fall upon the happy couple, as she locks eyes with a certain leggy blonde, across the room, she gives her a nod of approval as she plasters on a happy grin, making her way over to Liam.

“Hello, Liam, my boy!” she says smiling brightly as she kisses him on the cheek.

“Hello mother,” he says with a simple smile.

“And Aria, my you look lovely,” she says through tight thin lips.

“Doesn’t she?” Liam says smiling over at her, as he places his hand on the small of her back.

Gertrude smiles, “Yes, please let me introduce you to some people,” she says taking Aria by the arm as she sways her away into the crowd of the rich and elite, all with money to spend.

“Oh ok,” Aria says waving at Liam who gives her a sweet little wink.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 25

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 24 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Liam and Aria stand in front of his childhood home. It’s grand. A mansion to say the least. Based on Liam’s sleek yet chill apartment you would never know he grew up here.

“Are you sure I shouldn’t have worn that other dress? I suddenly feel like my boobs are very much on display in this,” she says nervously as she looks down at her slight cleavage.

“Well love, for me they are always on display, no matter what you wear” he says wagging his eyebrows.

Aria smirks slightly as she rolls her eyes. He can tell the idea of seeing Gertrude Whitmore again is getting to her.

“You look beautiful,” he says sweetly as he places a kiss on her cheek.

Liam presses the bell.

***

Aria laughs at something Liam says, as he smirks, he takes her hand bringing it to his lips he places a kiss on it.

It doesn’t go unnoticed by Gertrude’s beady little black eyes.

“So Aria, I’m so happy you decided to come. It means the world to me that you’ve accepted my apology and that we can have a fresh start.”

“Well, I thought it best we bury the hatchet, you know now that things are moving forward with Liam and I. I realize first impressions aren’t everything. And I know how protective family can be,” she says with a bright smile.

Nothing could take away how happy Liam makes her, even the possible disapproval of his mother. Her nerves had subsided once the initial apology was offered up. It seemed genuine enough. Aria loves Liam and that alone is enough for her to give this dinner her very best effort.

“Moving forward?” Gertrude says curiously.

“Yes mum, Aria and I are moving in together,” he says placing his hand on her knee, as she smiles she places her hand over his and squeezes it slightly. Liam smiles as he places a quick peck on Aria’s lips.

He’s come such a long way in such a short time. Telling her. Not asking for permission. Aria’s heart was soaring. What a man. And some PDA in front of her. Whoa. Hello New Liam.

Gertrude chokes on her brandy.

“Oh, wow!” she says clearing her throat quickly. “My apologies that just went down wrong. That’s so exciting. I’m so happy for you son. For both of you. Let’s have a toast, shall we?” she says holding up a finger to her butler as he nods darting off to retrieve a bottle of Whitmore’s finest and some glasses.

***

Aria and Liam sit back home, her shoes tossed to the floor, his tie off and sleeves rolled up, jacket tossed over the arm chair. The fire place glistening.

“That went incredibly well,” Liam says beaming.

“Yea it kinda did, didn’t it?” she says happily.

“Thank you for that, I know that couldn’t have been easy. I know it wasn’t easy for me.”

“I told you, I’m in this for the long haul Liam,” she says caressing his cheek softly.

“So am I. And I’m never letting you go, love,” he says leaning in and kissing her passionately.

Things start to get heated as usual.

Liam presses his forehead against hers, as he stares into her chocolate caramel eyes, “When are you gonna bring all your stuff over,” he sighs into her lips as he teases her with the possibility of another kiss.

Aria groans at his mean little trick, as she catches his bottom lip between her teeth. She bites down slightly causing Liam to groan as he deepens their connection.

“I told you, after the showcase. Ok? I just want to have one last fun girl’s night in with my cousins and my friends. I need that. I want to close that chapter of my life the right way.” She whispers against his lips.

“I understand. I do. I get it. And I want that for you. I just- I have a really hard time sleeping when you’re not next to me.”

“Trust me, I know the feeling.” She says her hands gliding across his chest as she sighs “But the showcase is this weekend and it’ll fly by,” She says running her hands through his sandy brown waves.

“I have a surprise for you?” He says with a smile as he places a peck on her lips.

“Really?” she says wiggling beneath him, her curiosity peaked.

“Not that kind of surprise,” he says with a smirk as he stands up.

Aria groans with frustration as she watches him go over to his briefcase and take out two tickets.

“What is this?” she says with a smile as she looks down at the tickets.

“Sky’s hosting this wine and paint party tomorrow night at her place, if you’re interested we can go. She wants us to go. Bring all the girls, I want to spend more time with them. I want them to know how serious I am about you. That you’re in good hands.”

“You had me at wine. But all that romantic, sweet stuff was just the icing on the cake,” she says smiling brightly as she intertwines her fingers in his. “Such good hands,” she says raising an eyebrow up at him.

Liam laughs.

“So you wanna go?”

“Yea I’d love to. And I’m sure the girls will love to join too. I’ll call them. Aw, babe I’m so excited. We’re like a real couple!” she says doing a little cute dance.

Liam shakes his head with a chuckle.

“Yea. We are,” he says kissing her. “Besides I figured it’d be a good way to relax before the showcase. I know you’ve been working so hard with trying to balance work at the gym and your rehearsal time. Let alone a social life,” he says smiling.

“You are wonderful, you know that?” she says beaming.

“I try, love,” he says shrugging his shoulders.

“You don’t have to try. Really. You are just, ugh, you make me so happy!” she says cupping his face with her hands as she places a big sweet, smooch on his lips.

Liam looks at her in adoration, “If you’re happy, I’m happy,” he says simply. His love for her growing with each second he spends with her.

***

Aria and Liam walk into Sky’s funky SoHo apartment that she shares with her bandmates. Aria’s girl gang in tote.

“AHHHHH!” Sky screams the minute she sees Aria and Liam.

Liam laughs as Sky rushes over to them.

“Look at you two, holding hands, looking adorable! I love it!” she says clapping.

“Thank you Ev,” he says giving her a hug.

“Your place is amazing! So funky!” Aria says hugging her.

“Thanks. Just like me!” she says laughing. “Oh I’m so happy you all made it, come come pick a paint station!” she says pulling Aria by the hand.

Liam smiles as he lets the girls walk in before him.

“Yolanda, Layla,” he says stopping them both, “Aria told me how supportive you both were about everything. I just want to say thank you. I know things are moving quickly for us, but I believe when you know you just know.” He says with a smile.

Yolanda looks at him, her heart beating against her chest at the sudden realization. Something just clicks inside her.

“Yea well, it took me a minute, but we do realize how happy you make her. And she really deserves that,” Layla says with a smile.

“I’m sorry, I have to go,” Yolanda says.

Liam looks at her worriedly.

“It’s not because of you, please, don’t misunderstand. I just, I have something I need to do. Tell everyone I’ll be back,” she says rushing off.

“Yoyo,” Layla calls after her.

“I’m ok, don’t worry. I’ll call you,” she says blowing her a kiss and rushing out the door.

***

Yolanda rushes through the silver sliding doors of the hospital. Catching her brief reflection through the glass, a woman determined. She rushes over to the surgery board scanning it for Dr. Matthew Greene’s name. Nothing. Her cute pumps digging into the backs of her ankles.

“Hey Claire, is Dr Greene on call today?” she asks urgently, ignoring her discomfort.

“Um, he was. But he just finished his shift. If you hurry you might be able to catch him in the parking lot. He just left,” she says noticing her distress.

“Thanks,” Yolanda says rushing off.

She bursts through the garage door as her eyes scan the parking lot for his toned, tall body.

She sees him, and suddenly her legs halt. What if she makes a fool of herself?

She turns on her heel and starts to walk away quickly, and then Liam’s words echo in her mind- “when you know you just know.”

She stops and turns swiftly walking toward him as he opens his car door to get in.

It’s now or never, Yolanda.

“Dr. Greene?” She says. He sees her and halts, his smile bright as always.

“Yolanda, Hi. I didn’t know you were working today,” he says.

“Hi, I’m not actually. Um…I came to talk to you. Do you have a second?”

“Of course, step into my office,” he says with a funny head tilt as he gestures toward the back of his minivan. The trunk opens creating a nice little seating area for them.

Yolanda smiles as she follows him and takes a seat.

“So what’s up?” he asks calmly.

“Ok, um, I don’t really know where to start. I-”

“If this is about the Leighton case, I read your notes. Great job.”

Yolanda shakes her head. “I like you. A lot,” she blurts out.

“Oh,” Matthew says surprised.

“Look over the past few years that we’ve been working together I feel like we’ve always had this underlying connection. We work really well together. I think you are a wonderful doctor and boss and all around just a really wonderful man. And I have felt like you’ve sort of hinted at possibly being interested maybe once or twice but I was never fully sure. And I worried what people might think, and how it could affect our professional relationship. But I-”

“Yolanda,” he says taking her hand in his. “You thought right. I have always had very deep feelings for you. I just wasn’t sure you ever noticed.”

Yolanda sighs as her heart beat slows down, and her mind becomes clearer.

“Yea?” she asks her eyes meeting his, seeing him for the first real time.

“Yea,” Matthew nods with a sweet smile as he cups her cheek with his hand, leaning in he places a sweet kiss on her lips.

Yolanda’s heart pounding against her chest and in that moment she knew, Matthew was unlike any other man that came before.

***

Aria and Liam sit side by side. A continuous pouring of wine into clear crystal glasses as paint brushes stroke blank canvases. Aria’s girl gang laughing amongst themselves as she smiles at the very bubbly hostess Sky.

Aria leans over to sneak a peek at Liam’s piece and it is already an image.

“Wow,” she says stunned, her jaw dropping.

“What?” he says with a sweet chuckle.

“Liam, you are seriously talented!” Aria says.

“Oh…thank you love,” he says sending her a sexy wink.

Sky walks over, “Ah so you’ve finally seen his artistic brilliance come to life?”

Liam rolls his eyes.

“Yes! I have! Liam I mean, you really should be doing this for a living, you don’t belong in a stuffy old corporate office,” Aria says her hand laying on his knee.

“I’ve been telling him that…for years,” Sky says with a knowing sister look.

Aria looks over at Liam in awe as his brush glides across the canvas.

***

“Sky, thank you so much, this was really great!” Aria says smiling.

“Of course I’m so glad you all came!”

“Bye Ev,” Liam says giving his sister a hug.

“Goodnight, we’ll have to plan something again soon!” she says smiling as she waves to the group as they exit.

Aria and Liam head down the city sidewalk, hand in hand.

“Hey Lay?” Aria says as she turns to Layla. “Has Yoyo called you yet?”

Layla checks her phone for the hundredth time that night, “No,” she says with a huff, “See now I’m starting to get a little worried.”

“Yea me too. This is so unlike her.” Aria says concern etched on her face.

***

Yolanda’s eyes flutter open as she is met with a ray of sunshine peeking through the luxurious cream lace curtains. And then she smiles remembering her night in snippets.

The hospital garage. Dr. Matthew Greene at his car. Her confession. His confession. Their kiss.

The wine. Lots of it. The local church. Rings. Vows. And sex in the most beautiful hotel room. Sex. Lots of it. Whispered I love yous. And calling him Matthew for the first few times. Screaming it a few dozen times.

Yolanda smiles as she turns toward the warm body curled up beside her. His muscular arm draped over her waist. A sweet smirk resting on his beautiful face.

Yolanda smiles as she looks at the ring on her left hand. She leans over and places a kiss on Matthew’s lips.

He starts to kiss her back, before he even opens his eyes. Fluttering open they meet hers.

He chuckles, as he pulls her closer to him.

“Good Morning Mrs. Greene?” he says smiling brightly.

Yolanda covers her face with her hands as she shakes her head in disbelief.

“Did we really get married last night?” she asks with a giggle.

“Oh we did.” He says smiling.

“It’s kind of crazy don’t you think though? I mean we haven’t even been on a first date,” Yolanda says baffled at this turn of events.

“Well maybe not,” he says lacing their fingers together, “but we’re not exactly strangers Yolanda. We’ve known each other for years. I respect you, I admire your character, and I see how caring you are and how strong you are. And I mean you are absolutely stunning. I’ve waited so long for you to accept this connection between us. Once you finally did, there was no way I was going to just date you. I’ve wanted you for so long. I’ve been in love with you for as long as I can remember,” he says looking into her eyes.

“You’re incredible, I’ve loved you for a long time too. I was just so scared. I haven’t exactly had the best luck with men,” she says.

“Well that’s all in the past now, I promise you and I will always be a team” he says pulling her into a kiss.

Yolanda smiles as she wraps her arms around his neck, as Matthew shifts them lower on the bed so they are laying down.

“Mmm mmm, wait,” she says pushing him gently away from her just when things were getting heated.

“More waiting?” Matthew says with a joking tone as he stops looking at her.

“What are we going to do about work…it’s not professional for me to have married my boss. Especially when no one even saw us as a couple in the first place,” she says worried

“Hey, don’t worry about that now, it’s our honeymoon,” he says smiling.

Yolanda laughs, “I’m serious Matt,” she says still worried.

Matthew looks at her, “God I love hearing you call me that.”

“Well that is your name?” Yolanda says laughing.

“Yea, but do you realize in all these years we’ve worked together, you have not once called me by my first name,” he says with a smirk.

“Well I think I certainly made up for that last night,” she says coyly.

“Oh, Mrs. Greene. You naughty thing,” he says laughing as he kisses her.

Yolanda laughs. But soon her laugh turns to gasps as Matthew works his way down her body, her mind losing all worry. Her hands gripping at sheets.

***

“Yolanda! I have called you like 100 times! Where are you? This is not ok! Call me back,” Layla screams into her phone as she paces her apartment floor.

Aria tries the hospital again, “Hi, sorry to bother you again, has anyone heard from Nurse Yolanda Lenz today, did she come into work?” she says her nerves bubbling as she paces alongside her cousin.

Layla looks on hopefully as Aria shakes her head no luck.

Layla sighs heavily, “that’s it I’m calling the cops!”

Liam looks on confused, “I hate to play devil’s advocate during a time like this but…”

“Then don’t Liam,” Aria says as she glares.

“Ok, hey, love, I know you’re nervous but think about it. You said she was going to find Dr. Greene and tell him how she feels right?”

“Yea?” Layla and Aria say in unison.

“So…maybe things…went well.” He says with a cheeky smirk.

“What are you getting at Liam?” Layla asks confused.

“I’m saying what if the feelings were mutual and things escalated…” Liam says insinuating.

“My sister would never just go home with some guy!” Layla says annoyed.

“But from what I’ve heard… he’s not just some guy. I mean haven’t they known each other for years? I mean Aria, love, think about us, I mean we were extremely invested really quickly and we barely knew each other. Think about years of pent up feelings, and attraction, I mean Yolanda could be…”

“Married.” Yolanda says, standing at the doorway. Dr. Greene standing beside her. Both wearing goofy grins.

Aria, Layla and Liam’s eyes all fall on the couple.

“I’m sorry, did you just say MARRIED?” Layla says in pure shock.

“Yes, I did,” Yolanda says happily as she holds up her left hand.

“I- I-I” Layla says stammering.

“What?” Aria blurts out.

“I realize this may come as a shock,” Yolanda says walking in cautiously. Matthew following suit.

“Yea, ya think?” Layla and Aria both say in unison.

Liam extends his hand, “Good to see you again, Dr. Greene.”

“Likewise, Mr. Whitmore,” Matthew says shaking his hand with a firm professional grip.

“How the hell did this happen, not judging, just so confused!” Aria says her eyes darting between the newlyweds.

“Ok, that’s understandable, why don’t we sit and Matt and I will tell you everything.”

“Well maybe not…everything Hun,” Matt says with a shy smirk.

“Oh my god, have you two already had sex?” Layla blurts out.

“Layla, I would very much appreciate your discretion,” Matt says, his cheeks turning red.

“Oh you think she’s not going to tell us all about it, oh you’re so cute!” Aria says smiling as she slaps Matt’s shoulder playfully.

“Wait…what?” Liam says worried as he turns to Aria, “Do you talk about us…” he whispers.

“Bravo, Liam,” Layla says her eyebrows wagging.

Liam blushes.

“OK!” Yolanda says standing up sternly. “Ladies, my bedroom please,” she says pointing forcefully in that direction.

Liam and Matt exchange confused glances as the girls walk off.

***

Yolanda closes the door behind.

“I can’t believe you’re married!” Aria whispers loudly.

“Seriously Yoyo, how was the sex?” Layla says excitedly.

“Layla!” Yolanda says her cheeks blushing.

“No come on, you have to tell us! This is huge!” Aria says excitedly.

“It was…” she rolls her eyes at the notion of sharing, “incredible,” she says laughing.

“Ah!” Aria says clapping happily.

“Oh I knew it. He looks like he’d be good in bed,” Layla says doing a little sexy dance move.

“Ew, Layla. He’s my husband.” Yolanda says annoyed.

They all halt as Yolanda smiles brightly, her hands cupping her face. “I have a husband,” she says happily.

“You do! I can’t believe it!” Aria says.

“Me neither, you have to tell us everything!” Layla says pulling the two of them to the floor as she sits cross legged.

“Well I went to the hospital to find Matt, and finally tell him how I feel. And he was in the parking lot just about to get in his car. I asked him if we could talk and I just told him. And he then said he felt the same way. And then he kissed me. And it was in that moment that I knew he was not just a guy. He was the guy. My guy. And it was like this mutual agreement that we both felt. Like just dating wasn’t enough. All these years were just such a preamble. Marriage was the only logical thing. And believe me, I know how bizarre and unlike me this all sounds. But I just, I knew it felt right when we kissed. And Liam said something that stuck with me, in fact it’s what made me leave and rush over to the hospital- he said, “when you know you just know.” And I knew.” Yolanda says shrugging.

“My Liam, said that?” Aria says emotionally grabbing her chest.

“Yea, and it was like everything just kind of clicked and I knew I had to see Matt.” Yolanda nods with a smile.

“You guys are seriously adorable!” Aria says smiling.

“So much is changing!” Layla says her eyes starting to fill with water.

“Aw Lay, don’t cry,” Yolanda says as she pulls her into a sisterly hug.

Aria rubs her cousin’s back gently, trying to soothe her.

“I can’t help it. You and Liam are moving in together, you’re married! Don’t get me started on how sad I am that I wasn’t there!” Layla says.

“I know, I’m sorry. Of course I missed having my girls by my side. But Matt and I said we wanna plan a big wedding sometime in the future and of course you both will be my maid of honors!”

“Aw, of course!” Aria says smiling and clapping.

“So much is changing. Where does that leave me? I’m going to have to move out.” Layla says moving away and sitting on the nearby bed as she wipes a few fallen tears.

“Hey, no you do not! I would never do that to you!” Yolanda says her eyes beginning to water too.

“You’re married now. I highly doubt Matthew is going to want his wife’s sister hanging around.”

“Ok, well maybe we haven’t gotten to discuss living arrangements yet, but I will never not be here for you,” Yolanda says sitting down next to her sister and taking her hand.

“Yea and same goes for me too, Liam understands how important both of you are to me, you two are truly my sisters.” Aria says as she extends a hand to each of them.

The three girls sit there, in silence, holding hands, and taking in their last few moments with just the three of them.

“You know what, how about, Aria and I tell our guys that it’s just gonna be us three girls tonight?” Yolanda says with a smile.

“I can’t ask you guys to do that. I don’t want to be rude.”

“No you’re not, I think that’s a fantastic idea. Besides my showcase is coming up and I could really use some family time,” Aria says smiling.

“Really?” Layla says looking between her sister and her cousin.

They both nod as their tears dry and their smiles widen.

Layla smiles brightly, “Aw thank you both,” she says pulling them both into a bear hug.

***

“Ok…so….what do we wanna do first?” Aria says coming over with a bottle of wine and three glasses and joining the girls on the floor fort full of blankets and pillows.

“Definitely order food!” Layla says as Yolanda nods along.

“Mexican, Italian, Greek, Chinese?” Aria says flipping through a bunch of menus.

“Yes,” Layla and Yolanda say in unison.

“A little bit of everything?” Aria asks with a big flirty smile, “A smorgasbord of deliciousness if you will?”

They all laugh as they clink their wine glasses.

***

“Oh my god, I am stuffed,” Layla says lying motionless on the floor, arms spread out at her sides.

“Ugh, me too!” Yolanda says holding her stomach.

“Oh so, I’m the only one who is going to enjoy this insane chocolate cake we ordered?” Aria says holding the cake up in front of them. “Fine, more for me.”

“How can you eat like you do, and look like that? I’m a nurse and I still don’t get how she does it.” Yolanda says shaking her head and looking toward her Layla with a smirk.

“Hey, it all just goes to my ass, and Liam loves it,” Aria says laughing as she sticks her tongue out as they each grab a fork and dig into the cake.

“I really am happy for you Ari, and you too Yoyo. I’m just gonna miss this,” Layla says smiling with a shrug of her shoulders.

“Hey, no no, do not get emotional on us again, ok? Tonight is our night!” Yolanda says.

“Yea, so what next, facials, mani/pedis, dance party, chick flick?” Aria says smiling.

“Yea let’s do it all, in that order,” Layla says smiling brightly as she claps her hands.

“Great I’ll get the spa basket,” Aria says popping up.

“I’ll scan Netflix for our favorite rom coms,” Yolanda says grabbing the remote.

“I’ve got our kickass playlist ready,” Layla says waving her cell phone.

***

Aria, Layla and Yolanda have what feelings like a montage of the perfect girls night in, slumber party. Checking all their plans off their list. As they snap silly green faced selfies, and take turns painting each other’s nails. They dance around their apartment as they each sway to the music, their wine glasses half full and swishing around. Ending the night with a feel good rom com. They lay together amongst the blankets and pillows as the credits roll. Yolanda shuts the TV, they sit there in silence and darkness, as the night creeps in.

“I love you guys,” Layla says sitting between them.

“Love you,” they both say in unison as they all hug each other tightly.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 24

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 23 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Aria sways to the music as she practices her routine in the bright light of the rehearsal space. The mirrors reflecting her every move.

Her mind not over thinking it. Her body instinctively knowing which move is next. Each movement connected to the beat like a note to a key. Like a moth to a flame. Like a paintbrush to a canvas. Her mind filling with her recent intimate moments with Liam. Embracing her sexual and feminine sides with each swirl of her lips, body roll and so on. She closes her eyes as she moves, her heart feeling the music.

After so many years of hard work, and dreaming of this opportunity, Aria felt more ready than ever.

She finishes her routine, her final stance strong. Beads of sweat pouring down her back and chest. Her breathing heavy, her spirits lifted. In just a few short days, her dream may just become a reality.

Aria smiles to herself.

Breaking her out of her sweet, dreamy state, Allie comes rushing in, her blonde hair bouncing upon her shoulders, as she holds her fedora like hat in place, her cheeks flushed as she fights to catch her breath.

“Hey Al! What’s up?” Aria says with a slight laugh as she takes a sip of water.

“What’s up? Don’t what’s up me! I just ran all the way over here! How do you say something like “I think I’m engaged,” and then just hang up on a girl? You don’t! That’s how. You just don’t do that!” Allie says bending over, “Ah leg cramp, leg cramp,” she says rubbing her leg.

“I’m sorry, I had to rehearse.” Aria says smiling.

“Yea well still…you can’t just drop that bomb on me without an explanation.”

“I’m sorry, here sit down,” she says gesturing to the side bench at the front of the room. Aria smiles and hands Allie her water bottle.

Taking a sip, and a seat, Allie starts to return back to the present moment, “So…explain, now please.” She says waiting.

“Ok so look, it’s all a little murky.”

“What’s murky?”

“The proposal.” Aria says wincing at her anxious, frazzled friend.

“What does that mean?” Allie says her brow furrowing.

“Well see he kind of asked while we were in the middle of ya know….” Aria says her eyes widening.

“Wait he asked you during sex?” Allie says confused. “That’s so Un-Liam of him.”

“Well I mean it was just really emotional for both of us. And I think we were just both right there, feeling all sorts of connected and he asked and I said yes. I think. But I feel like…I don’t know- does it count? I mean we haven’t spoken about it sense-”

“Wow…I mean normally I would say things like that don’t count for regular guys, but Liam seems a bit different. I’m not exactly sure what it means in his case. Why don’t you just ask him?”

“Because I feel like it will ruin things. Trying to dissect things always gets me into trouble!” Aria says in a whiney huff.

“Aria you can’t walk around not knowing if you are engaged or not, just talk to him. That’s how a good relationship grows. Communication. Learn it, live it, love it.”

“Ugh, why do you always have to be so smart….and right?” Aria says in mock frustration.

“Because I’m fabulous! Now let’s get you outta here so you can talk to Liam. You wanna share a cab?”

“Yea definitely,” Aria says, picking up her dance bag.

Allie loops an arm around her shoulders, “So…how’s the routine coming….”

“Really great, it’s done. I’m ready.” She says with a big smile.

“That’s fantastic, I’m so proud of you, so excited for you!” Allie exclaims as she and Aria walk into the city hustle, both their hands flying up in the air to hail a cab.

***

Dr. Greene’s car comes to a halt in front of Yolanda’s apartment.

“Yup, this is me,” she says with a smile. “Thanks so much for the ride, Dr. Greene, I really appreciate it,” she says turning to open the car door.

“Yolanda, we’ve worked together for quite a while, don’t you think it’s time you called me Matthew?”

“Um…oh well, I guess I never really thought about it.”

Lies, she thinks. There were many nights where Yolanda Lenz had dreamt of calling Dr. Greene by his first name. None that she would ever admit to.

“I see, well if you wanted to, you could. I just figured we don’t always have to be so formal.”

Yolanda looks at him as his eyes flicker a slight gleam, a small nervous smirk creeps onto his face.

“Yolanda…”

“I should get inside, my sister and cousin are probably waiting up for me, thanks again” she says opening the door and rushing out.

Dr. Greene looks after her longingly as he lets out a sigh.

***

Aria walks into Liam’s apartment, to find the lights dimmed, and candles lit everywhere.

Her heart immediately jumps to her throat. Liam walks into the living area dressed in a casual pair of black slacks and a nice open collared black dress shirt.

“Hey love,” he greets her with a 10 watt smile.

“Hi,” she smiles while he takes her hands in his, placing a kiss on her cheek.

“I was going to come pick you up,” he says pouting.

“Oh well I ran into Allie so we just shared a cab, no big deal,” she says with a smile, “What’s with all this?” she asks looking around.

“Well I figured you and I had plans to pick up where we left off, so I thought why not set the mood,” he says with a sexy smirk.

“Oh I like the way you think,” she says as she reaches up and goes to kiss him, she halts.

“What?” he asks confused yet disappointed.

“I’m disgustingly sweaty, let me go shower first,” she says making a face.

“Honestly, I think you look sexy as hell, you always do,” he smirks pulling her to him as his lips find hers.

“Hmm, well you know, I know you look all freshly cleaned already, but say we got a little dirty, maybe you’d need another shower?” Aria says looking up at him with a sexy, sly smirk.

“Hmm, I thought you’d never ask,” he says his voice showcasing a hint of a growl, as he scoops her up in his arms. Aria squeals at his un-expectant nature as he rushes them to his bathroom.

***

Aria let’s out a loud moan, as she moves with Liam, her hands in his hair.

Liam groans, his hand leaving prints in the steam on the glass shower door as his other holds Aria up onto him. Quickening movements and screams of passion and pleasure.

Aria looks up at him, her heart turning to mush. “My god, where have you been, my whole life?” she sighs cupping his face, as he smiles, she pulls him in and kisses him feverishly. Her hands gliding across his chest as the beads of water and sweat trail down the lines of his abs.

Liam gasps against her lips, his body aching towards hers.

“I want you, now,” she whispers.

“Again?” he says his muscles tensing up trying to stay in control of his desire for her.

“Yes,” she says biting her lip as she stares at him. “You know you don’t always have to be such a gentleman,” she says coyly as her hands slide over his back, pushing him closer to her.

“God, Aria, you leave me breathless,” he says lifting her up again.

***

Aria throws on one of Liam’s thin robes, as she ties it loosely in front of her. Liam, steps out of the shower, wrapping a towel around his waist.

Aria grabs a brush and begins to brush her hair out, as she wipes her hand across the mirror getting rid of the steam.

Liam comes up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. “That was one steamy shower,” he whispers in her ear.

Aria laughs, as he starts to kiss her neck, she let’s out a moan, as her hands reach up and slide around his neck, causing her robe to shift. Liam notices, with a playful smirk on his lips, he reaches and unties it, as it falls open.

Aria inhales sharply as a breeze glides across her body. Liam’s hands reach for her, sliding down the length of her torso.

Aria’s body falls against his, as she gasps.

“Don’t tease me, if you aren’t ready for the next round,” she laughs against his lips.

Liam laughs, “You my love, have no idea what you’ve gotten yourself into,” he says smirking.

“Oh really…do tell?”

“I’d rather show you,” he says his eyes flickering that usual heat as he stares at her reflection in the mirror counter.

Aria spins around quickly, “Show me now,” she says.

“With pleasure, my love,” he says smirking as he hikes her up onto the sink countertop.

Aria loosens his towel as they fall into each other once again.

*** A few hours later-

Aria and Liam gasp as they both fall onto a side of the couch.

“Is it me, or does that just get better each time we do it?” Liam says out of breath. Sweat covering his chest.

“No yea it definitely does,” Aria says running her hand through her now sweaty hair, trying to catch her breath.

“I think I have an idea…” Liam says smirking at her.

“What’s that?” she says climbing on top of him, so that she is straddling his waist. A small throw blanket tossed across them.

“Why don’t we do a bit of a christening of my apartment,” he says.

“I’d say, bathroom check, bedroom check, living room check…we’re off to a great start.” She says laughing as Liam laughs his hands sliding up the back of his oversized t-shirt she had draped on at some point.

“Kitchen?” he says raising his eyebrows.

“Oh absolutely,” Aria says as she pulls him by the waist band of his boxers toward that direction. “Where do you want me?” Aria says in sexy tone as she does a little cha cha step.

Liam laughs, “Everywhere, love, I want you in every inch of this apartment.” He says backing her toward a corner.

Aria’s heart flips, “Yes, please,” she smiles brightly. As he lifts her up onto the counter top, his lips finding hers in urgency, he lifts the shirt off her body.

***

Aria hangs her head over the bottom of the bed her hands tussled in her hair, as she lets out a scream of pleasure.

Liam follows as he falls beside her, clearly exhausted.

“I think we just made up for all those times we weren’t having sex,” Aria says laughing as her chest heaves up and down, a sweet pink flush creeping upon her cheeks.

“Are you blushing, love? Liam says smiling as he covers her up with a blanket so she doesn’t catch a chill.

“Yes! I just. I feel so…”

“What?” he says his eyes turning to pure blue pools of romance, as his hand reaches up and tucks a strand of hair behind her ear.

“I don’t know. It’s hard to explain. I just feel so much for you. It’s almost like it’s more than love.” She says looking up at him.

Liam’s eyes start to water, as she pouts, pulling him by his chin, into a sweet kiss.

Liam pulls away to stare into her eyes, “Aria, I know exactly what you mean. I felt that way the minute we met. And this whole time, I’ve been trying to make sense of it or justify us for moving so quickly.”

“I love you. I do. But sometimes I worry that we’re both so attracted to each other that what if this is all just lust. What if it fades? How can we be sure it won’t?”

“Because Aria, my love, I have never felt like this about anyone. Lust is easy. You can lust over anyone, for anything. But what we have, God how you feel in my arms, that’s so much more.”

“You know last night when we were together for the first time, you kind of asked me something and I-” she says nervously as she looks away.

“I was wondering if that was ever going to come up.” he says with a sweet chuckle.

“So you do remember?” Aria asks

“Of course I do,” he says placing a kiss on her lips as he cups her face.

“So, was that just a sex casualty? Or…”

“Well if you’re asking me if I meant it, then yes I did. Did you mean it when you said yes, or was that just you enjoying yourself?” he says with a sexy smirk.

“Both.” She says with a wince, “Is that ok?”

“Of course it’s ok. Did I get caught up in you and your body and the way that you make me feel, yes. Absolutely. But in that moment it wasn’t just about good sex for me, it was about wanting you and I to be forever. I meant it when I asked it. But in hindsight, I’m thinking it wasn’t the most romantic proposal. It’s not exactly a proposal story you can tell people.” He says with a small laugh.

“Right,” Aria says with a laugh, “I do however disagree with you, I think it was an incredibly romantic moment. It was beautiful, and intense and made me feel things I didn’t know I could feel.”

Liam smiles as if his heart is turning to mush. He reaches over and kisses her passionately.

“I love you so much, and if I’m being honest this is all happening quicker than I was ready for.”

Liam nods in understanding, but Aria could see the flash of disappointment in his eyes.

“I’m not saying no. I’m just saying maybe not right now. You know there are so many things we are still learning about each other.”

“No I get it. I completely understand. I don’t want to scare you away. It just kind of happened in the moment and I couldn’t help it. I love you so much. But I also didn’t want to bring it up and cause you any stress right before your showcase.”

“You are so wonderful,” Aria says running her hand through his hair.

“Mmm, so are you my love,” he says leaning in and kissing her.

Aria deepens the kiss.

“Mmm, I have to go,” Aria says pulling away from him.

“Hmm, no stay!” he says reaching for her as he pulls her on top of him.

“I can’t, I’m sorry. I have some stuff to get ready before the showcase,” she says straddling him as she intertwines her fingers with his.

“Say no more, your showcase comes first,” he says kissing her cheek as he lets her hands free.

“I mean, you know that I wish I could stay though right, it’s just that all my stuff is there and you know…”

“It’s ok love, I get it. It’s just too bad, all your stuff wasn’t here,” he says with a little chuckle. As their eyes lock.

Liam sits up as he just realizes what he said, Aria’s eyes widen with intrigue, as she slides off his lap.

“I um, couldn’t ask you to…I mean it’d be too soon….right?” he says slowly and unsurely, trying to feel her out.

“Absolutely too soon. I mean we would be crazy to do that…” Aria says her voice trailing off.

“Right of course,” he says starting to get dressed.

Aria shrugs on her clothes too.

“I should really get going,” she says frazzled as she grabs her dance bag and purse. “I will call you tomorrow,” she says placing a quick peck on his lips because anything else would get them into trouble.

“Bye, love” he says with an awkward wave as she rushes out of his bedroom holding her shoes in her hand.

Liam sighs as he covers his face, in frustration, “What did you just do?” he says scolding himself. He starts to rush after her, as Aria rushes back through the apartment door.

“Liam” “Aria” they both say in unison.

“I’m sorry, love. I’m not trying to pressure you. God I just can’t seem to keep my mouth shut.”

“Liam. Is it weird that I don’t wanna leave? Like the actual thought of not having you next to me in bed tonight is literally breaking my heart. And I know that’s not normal, but we’re not normal. Nothing has been normal about our relationship. So really why should be start trying to be normal now?” she says with a shrug.

“Are you saying what I think your saying? Are you saying yes?” he says holding his breath in.

“If you are asking me to move in with you…than yes, I’m saying yes.”

“Oh my god, Aria,” he says breathlessly, as he rushes to wrap her in his arms, placing a kiss on her lips.

Aria laughs as he swings her around.

“I love you, and I never wanted you to leave either,” he says with a big grin.

“Well now I won’t have to,” she says shrugging.

“You’re really gonna move in?” he asks his eyes watering again.

“If you’ll have me?” she says shrugging as she places a hand gently on his cheek.

“Always, always my love,” he says pulling her into a passionate kiss, as he walks her toward his bedroom.

Aria stops them, “You know where we haven’t done it yet?” she says her voice a whisper.

Liam’s eyebrows raise, “the balcony?” he asks confused.

“Ding Ding Ding,” she says with a smile.

“Aria…babe…really…out in the open like that?” he says with a smirk.

“Liam Whitmore, you are way less conservative than everyone thinks…wayyyyy, less,” she says sliding her hands down his chest. Liam growls, as he lifts her up and walks them toward the balcony doors. Aria let’s out a laugh.

***

“I’m sorry… what did you just say?” Allie says sitting across from her best friend as they sip lattes in their favorite coffee shop.

Aria winces. Out of all people who could understand the power of being in love, she would think Allie would get it.

“You think I’m crazy?” Aria asks her eyebrows raising, expectantly.

“I do. I mean it’s all very quick. But you look so happy. Are you happy?”

“I am. Happier than I’ve ever been. I just…I um, I just keep waiting for something to ruin it. Like he’s just too good to be true.”

“Ah, well don’t go down that road girl. You’ve been there before. Do you want the universe to prove you right?” Allie asks with a slick tilt of her head.

“Ok in all fairness, Liam just needed a little push in the right direction the first time. I won’t hold him wanting to keep his family together, against him. He really is a good man, and he loves me.”

“As long as you’re happy?” Allie says

“I am.”

“Ok then, I support that,” Allie says with a smile as she raises her coffee up in a cheers to Aria.

“Thank you, because I really need you to help me figure out how the hell I’m going to tell Yolanda and Layla.”

“Oh you’re on your own there,” Allie says with a smirk and a wink.

Aria laughs as she rolls her eyes.

***

Yolanda walks into the kitchen, a big yawn on her lips. As Layla sits at the kitchen nook, studying for her criminal justice exam and sipping on some tea.

Aria places a plate of food in front of her as Layla smiles her thanks, still absorbed in her books and scribbling down notes.

“Good morning sleepy head. You must have hand a busy few days, I feel like you never sleep this late?” Aria says.

“Yea. It’s been crazy at the hospital lately.” She says as she scans the kitchen countertops in awe. “This is some spread,” Yolanda says. Aria set out plates of mini muffins, pancakes, bacon, eggs, fresh fruit and freshly squeezed orange juice.

“Yea I just figured I’d do something nice for my two favorite roommates,” Aria says with a smile.

“Hmm well that’s sweet of you, Thank you” Yolanda says as Aria hands her a plate with everything on it.

Aria makes her own plate and joins her cousins.

Aria watches as Yolanda and Layla take their last few bites of breakfast. Fists resting under her chin, waiting for her moment to break the news.

Yolanda notices her direct focus on them, “What’s up?” she asks.

“Yea, you look like you have something you’re dying to say?” Layla says suddenly catching on and looking up from her notes.

“Ok, so there is something that I have to tell you both…” she says her voice trailing off as she tries to find the perfect words.

She and her cousins have grown so close in a matter of a few years. They are the only family she has left. As much as she loves Liam and wants to start this new chapter with him, a part of her can’t help but mourn the ending of an incredible chapter with two of her favorite girls.

“Are you pregnant?” Layla blurts out. Yolanda’s eyes widen as they dart from Layla back to Aria.

“No!” Aria says taken aback by her sudden accusation and commentary on her possible lack of responsible action. She and Liam are always careful.

“Oh thank god,” Yolanda says clutching her chest, “I mean look obviously if you were, we would support you and we would have made it work, but this apartment is small.” She says with a laugh.

“Um…actually it’s about to get a little bigger,” Aria says fidgeting with her hands awkwardly.

Yolanda and Layla exchange glances.

“Wait…are you trying to tell us that you’re moving out?” Layla asks shocked.

“Yes, and in with Liam.” Aria says cautiously her eyes trying to get a read on them.

“That’s insane!” Layla says as she stands up angrily.

“I know that this is all happening really quick. And I am so sorry to spring this on you. But I really want this. Ok? Liam and I are in love and I’m really happy. I just can’t explain it, I know this is right. I really think this is it for me. I mean we’ve even spoken about getting married in the future,” she says cleaning up the actual story a bit for her family’s sake.

“You don’t even know him that long, and here you are talking about love, and marriage and moving in with him?” Layla says judgmentally.

“Layla like I said I know it’s quick, and I’m sorry but I want this. I hope you can find some way to be supportive.”

Layla crosses her arms and huffs, “I can’t believe you.”

“That’s not fair Lay. You and all the girls were constantly telling me to give Liam a chance and have sex and enjoy myself and now that I am…”

“Yea enjoy yourself, have a fling, don’t suddenly jump into moving in and marrying the guy!” Layla says.

“I said we’ve spoken about it. I’m not marrying him tomorrow,” Aria says rolling her eyes.

“Oh please, he’s probably already proposed,” Layla says.

Aria winces and looks away.

“He has hasn’t he? Oh my god, what were you just never gonna tell us?” she says getting more worked up.

Aria then realizes Yolanda hasn’t said a word. In fact it would have been easier to predict that she would be the one giving Aria hell. But no, she’s just standing there looking off into space.

“Yolanda…what do you think?” Aria asks, her nerves building in the pit of her stomach.

Yolanda’s eyes float toward her, calmly, coolly and collectively she answers, “If this is what you want to do, then I support you.”

Aria’s jaw drops and so does Layla’s.

“What? Since when are you this cool about things? I would swear you would be having my exact reaction,” Layla says in protest.

“Honestly same here,” Aria says, confused as ever.

“Look, do I 100% agree with your choice? No. But I have seen how happy you’ve been with Liam. I think he’s good for you. And you deserve to be with someone who doesn’t fear his feelings. We all deserve that.” Yolanda says looking down at her nearly empty plate as she pushes around a few muffin crumbs with her finger.

“Oh I get it…so this has more to do with you projecting your personal regrets of not being honest with Dr. Hottie onto Aria and her relationship with Liam? You do know they are not the same thing right?” Layla asks obviously annoyed.

Aria looks at Layla and then at Yolanda, “Is that true Yoyo? Is that what you’re doing?”

“I’m not trying to project. I just understand what you’re going through. Having all these unexplainable feelings that you don’t know what to do with and being afraid to act on them, or worse not act on them. I just wish I was that brave,” Yolanda says getting up and clearing her dish.

“Yolanda you are incredibly brave. You’re a nurse! Why are you always selling yourself so short?” Aria says softly.

“Yes, I’m a nurse. When it comes to medical cases I’m golden, when it comes to love. I cower in fear of feeling something real. But like I said this is not about me,” she says turning back toward her cousin, “I am happy for you and Liam, I want this to work out for you, honest. And by some chance if it doesn’t, which I hope is not the case, you know you are always welcome here. This will always be your home.”

Layla wipes away a fallen tear, “Damn it, Yoyo, you had to just go and make me cry!”

“Ugh, me too,” Aria fans herself, wiping at her own tears, “I love you guys,” Aria says waving them both over, “Group hug.” She says as they all hold onto each other for what seems like forever.

***

Aria lays on her bed in a thin silk, mauve lingerie gown. Twisting her damp hair around her finger, phone to her ear waiting.

“Hello?” Liam’s voice sounds, instantly making her heart flutter.

“Hey you,” she says her smile widening.

“Hey gorgeous…so how’d it go with your cousins? Did you tell them yet?” he asks a smile of his own creeping onto his lips.

“I did.”

“And?” he says trying to contain himself.

“They were surprisingly supportive. Layla was a little angry at first but she came around.”

“Layla, that’s your younger cousin right? The law student?” he asks confused.

“Yea. I’m guessing from your knowledge of Yolanda you thought she’d be the one to freak out right?”

“Well…yea, I’m sorry, love.” He says sheepishly.

“No it’s ok, honestly we all felt the same way when we spoke about it. Yolanda is turning over a new leave. She’s really happy for us.”

“Well that’s amazing. I’m so glad, love.”

“So…what are you doing?” she asks her eyes reflecting a certain sexy look.

“Nothing much, just watching a movie,” he says lying as he sits in front of his half painted canvas in his hidden art corner, brush in hand.

“Hmm. I miss you. I wish we were watching a movie together right now.”

“If you were here right now Love, we wouldn’t be watching a movie,” he says his voice husky, a smirk on his lips.

Aria smirks, knowing she’s got him right where she wants him, “Really? What would we be doing?”

Liam chuckles, “you know exactly what we’d be doing.”

“What room would we be gracing our presence with this time?”

“The bedroom, that’s where I do my best work,” he says letting out a laugh.

“Oh honey, trust me, it’s all your best work.” She says in a sexy tone.

“What are you doing?” he says laughing as he starts to paint.

“Nothing much, just laying on my bed, I just got out of the shower,” she says seductively, as she wiggles her body in anticipation.

Liam’s eyes shoot up from his painting, even more intrigued now.

“Really? (He clears his throat) What are you wearing?” he asks putting his brush down and sitting back on the stool behind him.

“Not much. Something thin, silk, and short.” She says teasing him.

“I’m cursing the miles between us love,” he says his eyes flickering a sensual want.

“Hmm me too,” she says her voice breathy.

“You know what I’d do to you if I were there?”

“Tell me…” she says her legs sliding along each other as she waits to hear all the dirty things he’d do to her.

“Well first, I’d kiss those perfect lips of yours for a few dozen minutes…”

“That’s a good start,” Aria says stroking her bottom lip.

“Well love, that’s just it, it would be just the start. Once we were done, you wouldn’t be able to breathe much, let alone move.”

A moan escapes Aria’s lips. Liam smirks.

“How does that sound?” He asks walking into his bedroom and laying back on the bed.

“It sounds like you should keep talking, tell me everything, in detail. And don’t leave anything out,” Aria says her blood boiling.

Liam chuckles as he continues their sexy conversation.

***

Later that night Aria is on her way back from getting a drink of water, she walks back toward Yolanda’s room, she knocks on the door and peeks her head in.

“Hey,” Yolanda says as she sits up reading a book.

“Hey, are you ok? You seemed a little sad earlier. What happened between you and Dr. Greene?”

“Not much, and that’s my fault. I’m so fearful of how getting involved with him might interfere with my work, and how people will talk that I’ve lost all chances of telling him how I really feel. I’m sure he’s over it by now, and moved on. I mean a guy like him…he won’t stay single for long.”

“Yoyo, from what you’ve told us, he obviously likes you. You just have to show him that you’re interested. Guys need some encouragement too sometimes. It’s hard for them to put themselves out there too. Just talk to him. Otherwise you’ll always regret it. And if anyone deserves true love…it’s you.”

“Thank you, I love you,” Yolanda says hugging her.

“I love you more,” Aria says hugging her tightly as a tear springs to her eye.

Yolanda pulls away as she notices, “Ugh stop it, don’t start.”

“I can’t help it. I’m gonna miss you!” Aria says.

“I’m gonna miss you too!” she says her eyes tearing up.

“Ugh damn it,” Aria says letting the tears fall, pulling her cousin into another hug.

“Ok, stop crying. Go!” she says lightheartedly pushing her toward the door.

Aria laughs, “Yes ma’am,” she says wiping her tears and standing up.

She blows Yolanda a kiss, Yolanda blows one back in return.

“Good night,” Aria says in a sing song voice and with a cute little shuffle.

“Night,” Yolanda says with a laugh.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 23

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 22 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Liam stands up pulling on his clothes as he sits down on the edge of the bed to put his socks and shoes on. Aria wraps the sheet around her body and kneels behind him. She notices the red marks all over his back. Her finger traces a few of them.

“Oh babe, I’m sorry,” she says leaning down and kissing his back. Liam smiles, looking over his shoulder.

“I’m not,” he says wagging his eyebrows up and down.

“No, I’m serious. Do they hurt?”

Liam looks at her lovingly as he kisses her swiftly.

“It’s a very small price to pay for incredible sex,” he says smirking.

“It really was incredible,” she says smiling as she inches closer to him. Her lips touching his, just enough for a teasing taste.

“Aria…” he groans “You have to go get dressed, my love,” he says getting up and opening his closet to grab a clean shirt.

Aria flops back on the bed. “No,” she pouts.

“Come on, you’ll thank me later,” he says pulling on a plain black t-shirt.

He takes her hands and pulls her up off the bed.

“Ugh, fine. I will go. BUT- when I am done with my rehearsal, I am coming back here and we are gonna keep doing it,” she says forcefully as she starts to grab her clothes.

Liam laughs, “If we must,” he says rolling his eyes in fake frustration, a smirk growing on his lips.

Aria giggles as she leans up kissing him. Liam deepens the kiss. Aria lets the blanket fall causing Liam to moan against her lips.

“Go, just go get dressed, please,” he says laughing as she moves away. “I’m serious put some clothes on love, you are too damn sexy for me to resist,” he says smirking as he walks out of his bedroom.

Aria beams with Joy as she falls back onto his bed. Snuggled by all the sheets, she covers her face and kicks her legs about happily. She grabs her things and heads into his bathroom. She opens her cellphone and dials.

“Hello?”

“Hey Allie, it’s me. Guess what?”

“What?”

“Liam and I just had sex!”

“Yes!” Allie screams as her boyfriend stirs from his slumber by her side on the couch as a romantic comedy plays on the TV screen.

“Oh sorry babe,” she says as she gets up carefully and quietly heading over to her terrace.

“So… how was it?” Allie asks closing her terrace door behind her.

“Allie, honestly I never knew it could feel like that. I mean I thought I’d enjoyed it with other guys- but this was like next level. It was the best I have ever had,” she whispers.

“Did you…ya know?” Allie asks.

“Every. Single. Time.” Aria says smiling as she admires her post sex glow in his perfectly lit mirror.

“Wait how many times did you guys do it?” Allie says laughing.

“3…or was it 4?” Aria says pondering.

“Ah ha, oh la la,” Allie says laughing, “I am happy you’re happy girl. Liam seems wonderful.”

“He really is,” Aria says smiling as she has a flash of their prior declaration of love and commitment. “Allie…can you keep a secret?”

“Of course,” she whispers.

“I think I’m engaged.”

“What?” Allie says stunned.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 22

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 21 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Yolanda walks through the hospital emergency room entrance, with the young brunette girl on a gurney. Yolanda’s EMT friends wheeling the girl in.

“Hey take her to cubicle 3. I’ll let the nurse on call know. Thanks guys,” she says. They nod in compliance wheeling her toward the cubicle.

Dr. Greene walks in through the sliding hospital doors. His eyes land on a busy Yolanda taking lead at the nurse’s station.

“Hey there, long time no see,” he says greeting her with a handsome grin.

“Dr. Greene, hi,” Yolanda says in slight shock.

“What do we have?” he says throwing on his white coat.

“Um…I’m sorry that your night was cut short,” she says with a small smile.

“Same to you,” he says nodding.

“Yea that was quite a rushed exit,” Yolanda says with a small laugh. She hands him a patient’s chart, and her stomach tightens as their hands brush slightly.

***

Aria lies beneath Liam’s toned, muscular body as he hovers over her. Cupping his face, Aria pulls him into a heated kiss.

“God, I love you so much,” Liam whispers against her lips, his hands roaming the curves of her body.

“I love you,” she says her hands kneading their way through his hair.

“Are you sure, love?” Liam says looking down at her. “I don’t want to move too fast.”

“I’m positive. I can’t wait another minute Liam,” she says her voice breathy and full of want as she inches her body towards his.

“Neither can I, love,” he says as he closes the last bit of distance between the two.

Aria let’s out a heavy gasp, her head tilting back. Her hands gripping at his sheets, and clawing at his back with each movement. Their bodies finding a perfect rhythm.

The more Aria seems to vocalize her pleasure, the more groaning escapes his throat as he sighs into her lips. Their mouths meeting in urgency.

Liam’s hands sliding up her thighs, his lips finding that special nook in her neck. Dancing across her skin. Gripping her hips, he spins her on top of him. Aria gasps as she grips the headboard behind him for support, moving with his body. Their breaths quickening. Their body heat elevating. Minds hazy.

“Aria…Aria marry me?” he says his voice raspy and full of urgency as they both still. Their bodies unraveling around each other.

“Yes!” Aria says letting out a loud scream as she flops down beside him. Both of them clearly exhausted.

Liam glances over at her.

“That was um…” he says, his chest rising and falling heavily.

“Mind blowing,” Aria says glancing over at him, trying to catch her breath.

“Yes,” he says closing his eyes, as he takes a deep breath in and then lets it out.

“Are you ok?” Aria says turning on her side.

“Yea…I just… (He breathes heavily) I need a second to catch my breath,” he says with a chuckle as his eyes flutter up to the ceiling.

“Well, Mr. Whitmore, I think maybe I might have to find another lover that can keep up with me,” she says rather dramatically.

Liam’s eyes jolt over to Aria as she smiles widely, he grins and grabs her, pulling her toward him.

“Get over here,” he says climbing back on top of her as she lets out a laugh, his lips cover hers.

As Liam places kisses, making his way down her body, Aria thinks to herself- Are we not going to talk about the fact that I’m pretty sure he just proposed marriage. And I’m also pretty sure I said yes. Sure it was on the brink of orgasm, but still. Her mind begins spinning with questions. As Liam’s lips and hands continue to discover her body. She is jolted back into her body as her breath catches in her throat. She gasps. Screw the overthinking. This feels good. It feels right. Aria thinks as she wraps arms around his neck, her lips finding his as they both move with each other. Aria feeling Liam’s heart beating out of his chest, as he deepens each kiss.

***

Yolanda walks out of a patient’s room, removing her gloves and tossing them in the trash. Her once sexy party girl outfit now more appropriate with some nurse essentials from her locker- a cardigan to disguise any cleavage, her hair pulled pack and her plain white nurse skips replacing her heels. The night and the drinks, catching up to her. She yawns as she checks another patient chart.

“Yolanda, Hun, go home. You weren’t on duty tonight anyway,” a fellow nurse and friend says with a smile.

“No I’m good. I just need a cup of coffee,” she says waving her hand dismissively.

“You know she’s right Yolanda. You look like you could really use some sleep,” Dr. Greene says walking over with a smile. He lets out a yawn himself.

“Ah I could say the same for you, Dr.” Yolanda says with an unintended “Happy Birthday Mr. President,” sexual undertone.

Dr. Greene smirks, clearly amused. Yolanda notices.

“You know I think we are leaving these patients in good hands. What about I give you a ride home. It’s late.” He says with a gentle yet sexy grin.

Yolanda’s eyes meet his while she ponders what accepting this ride could lead to. But before she could even stop herself a, “Yes, that’d be great. Thank you,” escapes her mouth.

Dr. Greene smiles, happily caught off guard that she agreed. “Ok then great. My car is in the parking lot. Shall we?” he asks gesturing for her to exit first.

Yolanda smiles brightly as she waves to the other nurses. Her friend arching a slight eyebrow at her with extra intrigue. Yolanda glares at her, shutting it down before Dr. Greene has a chance to notice.

“Good night,” Dr. Greene says nodding to the other nurses and following Yolanda towards the exit.

***

Aria lays on top of Liam, as her hand strokes his sweaty chest.

“Hmm, I could lay like this all day,” Liam says his voice a sexy raspy purr. His arms tighten around her as he places a sweet kiss on top of her head.

“Mmm, I could certainly be persuaded,” she says moaning into his mouth as her lips cover his. Their tongues sliding into each other’s mouths.

Liam chuckles as Aria rolls him on top of her once more.

“Mmm,” he mumbles as his excitement begins to show. Aria’s eyes flutter open, as she moves her lower half closer to his. Her legs wrapping around his waist, pulling him into her.

“Well, someone’s ready for round 3,” she says flirtatiously.

Liam moans against her lips.

“Aria, Love…as much as I want to stay here in this bed and make love to you every minute of every hour- all day… you have a rehearsal to get to.”

“Ugh! Why did you have to remind me?” she says covering her face. “I want you…again…now,” she whispers as he sighs pulling her into a passionate kiss. His hands cupping her face lovingly.

“I want you,” he whispers back as her hands slide down his back. Her nails digging into his skin.

“But-” he says pulling away, “I promised you that I wouldn’t interfere with your rehearsal time. I know how much this showcase means to you.”

“I love you, but I hate you right now,” she says frustrated.

He laughs.

“I’m serious Liam, how do you expect me to focus on my routine, when I am feeling this…excited,” she finishes as her eyebrows raise on cue.

Liam matches her expression as a smirk plays on his lips.

“Ok one more time, but then I’m having my driver take you to rehearsal. No ifs, ands, or buts.” He says inches from her lips.

“Yes Sir,” she says smiling as she reaches up pulling him into a kiss.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 21

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 20 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Aria laughs as Liam leads her into the nearest stall of the bathroom.

“Come here,” he growls as his hands grip her waist.

Aria smiles up at him as her arms wrap around his neck, closing the distance between them. Her lips find his in the dim lighting of the bathroom stall.

Aria starts to unbutton his shirt as Liam starts to undo his pants, their lips not parting. Liam hikes Aria up against the wall, sliding his hands up her slip dress.

Aria’s hands fist into his perfectly gelled hair as her body heats up at the feel of his touch.

Liam stills, as he lets out a frustrated sigh before things go any further.

“Damn it, I don’t have protection, love,” he says setting her legs back down.

“Wha- Are you kidding me?” she says sighing as her body slides down his, her feet touching the speckled printed floor.

“I’m so sorry love. I don’t think it’d be too wise to continue without-”

“No of course not,” Aria says as Liam steps away from her. Her body still aching for him.

Liam zips up his pants as Aria fixes her dress, letting out a sigh of frustration.

They both look at each other.

“Wanna just make out like a couple, teenagers?” Aria says shrugging.

“Hell yes, love,” he says with a chuckle, grabbing Aria into a passionate kiss.

Aria laughs against his lips, her hands roaming over his toned back.

Each kiss deeper than the last.

Just then this loud sound of a fire alarm begins to blare from the speakers just above them, and Aria caught between pleasure and sudden fear looks up at the ceiling for an answer, the water spout pops open as it rains down upon them. Liam looks up.

“We should probably go,” he says grabbing her hand as Aria staggers behind him trying to manage to put one foot in front of the other and shake off the public bathroom tryst she just had in a bar named Wild Wonderland with Mr. Billionaire Bachelor Liam Whitmore.

Aria fixes herself as they rush toward the exit to find the rest of the gang. Water pouring from the ceiling, alarms blaring, people rushing out as staff try to keep things calm.

“Aria!” Yolanda says waving her arms in the air, near the exit as the rest of the girls nervously wait in the crowd trying to exit.

Aria points and pulls Liam toward the exit.

“What the hell is going on?” Aria says as they all usher out of the club, her hand firmly in Liam’s as his grip on her tightens in a protective way.

“I’m gonna go find one of my co-workers and ask them what happened, I’ll be back,” Molly says making her way through the crowd to see if she knew anyone.

Aria stands shivering, her silky, short, slip dress soaked and clinging to her, leaving even less to the imagination than before.

Liam notices as his eyes widen, he quickly takes off his button down shirt and drapes it over her shoulders, tugging it closed at the front.

Aria smiles her thanks, as she slips her arms into the armholes.

“Of course love, don’t need you to catch a cold,” he says reaching down and buttoning a few of the top buttons.

“Funny, I thought it might have been because you don’t want anyone else seeing too much of your woman,” she says looking up at him knowingly.

Liam smirks down at her, “Yea, well that too,” he says wrapping his arms around her waist as he leans down to place a kiss on her lips.

Standing there soaked, Liam Whitmore is being seen in public wearing nothing but a pair of slacks and a white muscle tank. Not something you see every day.

Molly rushes over to the gang, “Ok so there was a minor issue in the kitchen and the sprinkler system was activated.

“But is everyone ok?” Yolanda says her eyes scanning the crowd for anyone who may be injured during that stampede of an exit.

“I think so, the chef said the fire is under control.”

Yolanda’s eyes land on a young brunette girl nearby, wearing a tiara with a 21 written on it, she is limping as her friend, tries to steady her.

“Hey there,” Yolanda says walking over, “Are you hurt?”

The two girls look up at her confused at her sudden interest.

“I’m a nurse, I can help you,” she says with a kind smile, her sober side shining through.

“I think I sprained my ankle rushing out of there,” the girl replies.

“Ok let me take a look, let’s sit you down over there on that bench,” she says helping the young girl hobble over.

Yolanda kneels to examine the girl’s ankle, upon moving it slightly, the girl winces in pain, “Ow, yea, that hurts, a lot,” she says.

“Hmm, yea you definitely twisted it pretty good, I can tell it’s starting to bruise. Can you move it by yourself?”

The girl tries and is successful, “It does still hurt though.”

“Ok so I don’t think it’s broken, but I think I should send you for an x-ray just in case,” Yolanda says as an ambulance and fire truck begin to pull up, sirens blaring.

“Everyone! Hi, my name is Kathy Wilks, I am the manager here at Wild Wonderland,” she says yelling over the nervous crowd. “I am terribly sorry for all of this. We had a bit of a small fire in the kitchen but it has been put out and the fire department will check to be sure. If anyone is hurt please come speak to an EMT. And please look out for a voucher in your email to comp you for tonight. We apologize and hope this doesn’t sway you from visiting our establishment in the future.”

“Come on the EMT’s happen to be some friends of mine. I’ll walk you over,” Yolanda says as she helps the girl toward the ambulance as the EMTs wave over at her.

***

Aria and Liam walk into Liam’s apartment.

“Well that was…quite the night,” Liam says laughing as he grabs two fluffy charcoal colored towels from his linen closet, and hands one to Aria.

“Yes…very eventful…” Aria says drying her face.

“Let me get you some dry clothes,” he says walking toward his bedroom. Aria grabs his hand, “Hey thank you for coming out with us tonight, I know it probably wasn’t your usual scene, but it meant a lot to me to have you there.”

“Of course, I mean I know how much you love those girls and I love you, so it was a pretty easy choice for me to make,” he says smiling down at her.

Aria freezes.

“What? Do I have something on my face, love?” he says confused as he wipes each side of his face.

“No. It’s just- You just told me you love me,” Aria says her heart fluttering.

Liam looks at her and then he realizes, “Oh my god, I did. I have been holding that in for so long. And I didn’t mean to blurt it out like that. I was waiting for the right time, because I know we have been moving way too fast, and I didn’t mean to-”

“No no, shhh, it’s ok,” Aria says placing a finger on his lips as she covers his with her lips within seconds.

Liam responds rather quickly holding her tightly against his toned body.

She pulls away from him ever so slightly as her eyes look up at him through heavy lashes.

“I love you too,” she whispers.

Liam sighs as he pulls her into a kiss.

“Please tell me you have-” Aria starts to say.

“They’re in my bed room,” he says an urgency in his voice as he lifts her into his arms.

Aria squeals as Liam jets off toward his bed room.

His house phone starts to ring.

“Ignore it, please,” Aria says cupping his face into a kiss as he lowers her onto his bed.

Liam reaches for the hem of his tank top as he pulls it off, Aria runs her hands along his abs, their eyes locking in an escalated heat.

“Trust me I don’t intend to get that, love,” he says kissing her as he lowers his body onto hers, her legs wrapping around his waist.

The phone still ringing in the distance.

Liam moves to Aria’s neck, she inhales a sharp breath, he places small kisses along her jawline, making his way back towards her lips.

“Liam, get it, now” she says reaching between their torsos for his belt buckle. Liam nods in agreement. His eyes burning into hers as his hands slide up her dress.

Liam laughs against her lips as he pulls away, reaching toward his night stand.

Aria smiles leaning back as she removes his button down she had on from earlier.

Liam rips open the gold foil packet as he turns to Aria, he walks over to her. She makes her way up on her knees in front of him, as things begin to escalate, his voicemail picks up.

“Liam, its mum. Remember me?”

Liam and Aria freeze in horror.

Aria buries her face into his chest, in embarrassment.

“Oh my god,” Aria says laughing.

Liam wraps his arms around her, “Yea that’s a definite mood killer,” he says matter of factly as he places a kiss on the top of her head.

“I’m so sorry love,” he says looking at her clearly mortified.

Gertrude’s voice cutting in once again… “Liam, please. We can talk this out. I know we can. This is too long to go without speaking.”

“And she’s still going,” Liam says with a huff as he reluctantly let’s Aria go, he walks into his living space where his landline sits on the living room end table.

“Liam. I am sorry. You know I’m just protective over you. I want you to be happy. And if you tell me that Aria makes you happy, then I accept it.”

Aria follows Liam. Her heart softens.

“I’m so sorry Aria, I’m hanging up on her-” he says reaching for the button.

“Liam, no. Don’t. She’s trying to mend things. The least you can do is meet her and hear her out. She is your mother.”

“Aria, my mother can be very manipulative. This is all probably part of some scheme she’s cooked up,” he says shaking his head.

“Maybe so, but I couldn’t live with myself if I was the reason why your family broke apart,” she says walking over to him as she picks up the phone handing it to him, “Answer it,” she says with a gentle smile.

“You are extraordinary, you know that,” he says with a dumbfounded smile as he takes the phone from her hand, “but none of this is your fault.”

Aria smiles, “Answer it,” she whispers as Liam rolls his eyes, and clicks a button, “Hello mother,” holding the receiver to his ear as Aria starts to walks away, he catches her hand, pulling her into a quick, kiss. Aria smirks as she walks off, Liam taps her butt gently. Aria laughs silently as he sends her a sexy smirk and a wink.

“Oh Liam. Thank goodness you answered. My boy, I am sorry. I feel just awful.”

“Well you should mother,” he says his expression changing upon hearing her shrill voice.

“Liam my boy, I do apologize for how I reacted. I just worry for you. You are so naïve at times, you believe the best in people and you can easily be taken for a fool that way. I just worry.”

“Mother, you don’t know Aria ok? Not even in the slightest. For you to judge her from a mere glance, you not only hurt her. You hurt me.”

“Liam, I am sorry son. Please give your dear old mum, one more chance. Bring her to the house for dinner sometime. I want to apologize in person.”

“Mother, I don’t think that’s the best idea.”

“I will be on my best behavior I promise you,” she says a careful grin upon her face as she sits on the other side of the phone call lounged in a patio chair in her lavish backyard near the pool. Gertrude is wearing a large black sun hat and a light periwinkle, tailored pant suit her beady eyes, focused. Determined.

“I can’t promise you anything, I will have to discuss it with Aria,” he says making his allegiance clear.

“Okay then my son, let me know. I do hope you’ll both come.”

“Well mother, I appreciate the offer. But if Aria feels uncomfortable coming, neither of us will be there.”

“Liam. Oh Liam, please don’t say such things. You do accept my apology don’t you?”

“Only if Aria will. I must be going now mother, goodnight.” He says hanging up before she could say anything else.

Gertrude huffs as she slams her phone on the patio table nearby.

Liam tosses his phone on his coffee table and walks back into his bedroom.

He finds Aria sitting in some oversized clothes from his dresser, as she lays on his bed flipping through the many TV channels his large flat screen holds.

Liam smiles at seeing Aria make herself at home.

“Hey, how’d it go?” Aria says looking up, and shutting the TV.

“She apologized…not sure that’s worth much when it comes to her,” he says rolling his eyes.

“Well I mean it’s a start right?” Aria says moving across the dark charcoal gray sheets towards him, her hands reaching for his.

“Yea well here’s the zinger…” he says raising an eyebrow.

“Oh boy…what?” Aria says as he pauses her eyes widening with curiosity.

“She invited you and I to dinner…says she wants to apologize in person,” he says his breath catching in his throat. Worrying about her reaction.

Aria pauses, she stays silent for a beat, her gaze passing him, lingering off and away. Pondering.

“Please…say something love…” he says staring at her nervously. “We don’t have to go if you don’t want to,” he says lifting her hand and placing a sweet kiss on it. “I’m not even really sure I’d want to go,” he says.

Aria smiles simply. “Let’s do it,” she says casually.

Liam looks at her, a shocked expression flashes across his face.

“You sure?” he asks confused.

“Yes,” Aria says with a nod.

“Why would you want to?”

“Because, whether you want to admit it or not, I know that your relationship with your mom still means something to you. Family is important. She is making an effort, so I will too,” she says shrugging her shoulders slightly. “Because if there’s one thing in this world she and I have in common is that we both love you,” she says cupping his face.

Liam’s heart melts as he sighs before pulling her into a deep kiss.

“I love you too,” he whispers against her lips. Their former flame suddenly reigniting quickly. “So um…” Liam says his eyes staring into hers. He licks his lips, coughing nervously.

“Where were we?” Aria asks knowing that he’s too shy to ask.

“Oh thank god,” Liam says swiftly pulling her toward him. His lips instantly on hers like a magnetic force. His hand reaching for the open gold foil packet.

Aria’s heart beats rapidly. Her hands roam across his torso, pulling at his clothes. Liam hooks his hands behind the backs of her legs, causing her to fall back on the bed as she squeals, he laughs climbing on top of her as she wraps her arms and legs around him.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-