*Previously on Crazy Stalker Love- Read Chapter 5 HERE

Henley throws some clothes on and heads out of the room into the kitchen, where Piper sits sipping a cup of coffee.

“Hey, Bachelorette, the girls leave already?” she says smiling.

“Yea early this morning and Shhh,” Piper says cradling her head.

“How are you feeling, hungover, huh?” she says laughing.

“Yea, so bad. How are you not? You drank a lot too?”

“I don’t know, guess I just got lucky,” Henley says shrugging.

“Yea we all heard,” Piper says rolling her eyes.

“What?” Henley says confused as she grabs a water from the fridge.

“Let me ask you a question… do you think my guest room is sound proof?” Piper asks her sarcasm evident.

Henley closes her eyes, “Oh my gosh! Piper, I’m so sorry I didn’t realize we were being that loud. I guess Hunter and I just got caught up in the moment. I’m sorry. I will wash the sheets.”

“Well I guess I should be grateful that it was Hunter you chose to hook up with in my guestroom, and not random bar guy.”

“Whoa, are you serious? Moody much?” Henley says looking at her best friend with slight disbelief.

“Look you’re my best friend and I love you. And I have always stayed out of this as much as I could, because I never wanted to take sides. But Henley there’s a lot that I hold back when it comes to your relationship or non-relationship with Hunter.”

“Ok, well we’ve never really talked about it…”

“Yea why do you think that is?”

“Well I just never wanted to drag you into it.”

“And yet here we are. You making out with Hunter in front of everyone before we go, out basically staking your claim on him. Then you making out with some stranger at the club. Then, what you came back and just decided to have sex with Hunter just because you know you can. In my guest room none the less.  Do you not see how screwed up that is? You put me in the middle all the time. Whether you see it or not.”

“I’m sorry. You know Hunter and I have a complicated thing going on. I don’t mean to-“

“No see that’s just the thing you call it complicated just as a cover up. It’s not complicated Henley. You’re using him. And it’s not ok. He loves you. And yea I know he hurt you back then, but he doesn’t deserve to be your punching bag for the rest of his life. Especially when he’s a recovering addict. I know you love my brother. I do. But if you keep doing this to him, he will break. I refuse to have to check him back into rehab. Because that was the hardest thing I have ever had to do in my life, and that includes losing my parents at 17. So make up your mind. Get over it, or don’t. Either be with him, or let him go. Just make a decision. He deserves to be happy.”

Henley looks at her best friend, stunned by her words.

“Wow. So you really have been holding a lot in all these years,” she says her eyes welling up.

Hunter comes out from the Bathroom, his hair wet as he dries it with a towel.

“Hey what’s going on?” he says with a smile.

“Nothing I was just leaving,” Henley says grabbing her purse.

“Henley, Hen. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to-” Piper says sighing as she looks after Henley, who shuts the door behind her.

“What the hell just happened?” Hunter says confused.

“I may have just bitched out my best friend.” Piper says covering her face.

“Wait what? You were mean to Henley. You guys don’t fight,” he says confused.

“Well I just let my hangover throw up all my feels.”

“Feels about what?”

“About you and her, how I don’t like that she strings you along, like a little puppy.”

“What? Piper are you kidding? You said that?” Hunter says shocked.

“Something to that effect,” Piper says covering her face in frustration with herself.

“You do realize that I’m the relentless one right? I’m the one who’s been chasing her.”

“Yea well you know what she uses that for when she needs to or wants to. She loves that you’re always there. She loves that you chase her. But then she holds onto the whole cheating incident when you get too close. It’s mean, and it’s not fair. You deserve better.”

“Better than Henley, your best friend?” he says baffled.

“Oh god, I was out of line wasn’t I?” Piper says covering her face.

“You think? You need to call her and apologize.”

“I know! Oh it was really bad, it was like everything I’ve ever thought for the past decade just spilled out of my mouth. I couldn’t stop it! Ugh I blame the tequila!” she says putting her head down on her kitchen island.

“Don’t start blaming alcohol for your problems now,” he says knowingly.

Piper lifts her head up and nods at him, “You’re right, phone?” she says pointing to her landline.

Hunter smirks and picks up the phone handing it to her, “There’s the girl I know and love,” he says smiling.

Piper, smiles faintly as she begins to dial. She stops and hangs up.

“What are you doing?” Hunter says confused.

“Before I patch things up with her. I need you to know something. I know I mess with you a lot when it comes to your relationship with Henley. It may seem like I’m always on her side. But I hope you know that as much as I love her and will support her. You’re my brother and I will ALWAYS have your back. I tell you when you’re wrong. And this time, I needed to tell her when she’s wrong. I love her, she’s one of my absolute favorite humans. But I do not like the way she’s been treating you. And I know you love her, but that doesn’t mean you have to take it. I just don’t want you to let her walk all over you. I know her heart is good, and she may not realize what she’s doing, but I can see it. And so can everyone else. I just hope you can to. At some point I think you may have to realize if she can’t fully forgive you, you need to move on.”

“Piper, oh come on. Your making this more than it is ok? I love her, and I know she loves me. We belong together, she just needs time to realize that.”

“Maybe, but how much time? It’s been 10 years. She knows you, she knows your heart, she should know by now, if you’re the one,” Piper says raising her eyebrows.

Hunter looks at her, taking it in.

“Just promise me that you’ll put your heart first from now on, even if that means you have to start dating someone else. It’ll be healthy for you. And if down the line you both find your way back together then great. If not, then it wasn’t meant to be. Please promise me Hunter, because I can’t take seeing you broken again. I just can’t do it. When you went away, it wasn’t just you that was effected ok?” she says starting to cry.

“Hey hey, I know. I know that. I’m not going back to that life. Never.” he says pulling her into a hug, as he kisses the top of her head.

“Promise me you’ll break it off, if it’s time…”

“Ok, I promise, IF it’s time.” he says.

Piper nods as she wipes away her tears, she picks up the phone again and starts dialing. Hunter walks over to the fridge.

“Oh and by the way, your washing my sheets, now.” she says pointing toward her guest room.

Hunter winces and turns toward her, “Yes, on it. Sorry,” he says smirking sheepishly, as he walks away.

Piper inhales sharply as she hears her best friend’s voice choke out a “Hello.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Why? You were right,” Henley says sniffling as she sits in her car, stuck in traffic, her face stained with tears.

“I didn’t mean to come at you like that. I guess between the alcohol and everything that’s been going on, I just kind of exploded. But yes, if I’m being totally honest, there were some real feelings in there. I mean he’s my brother Henley.”

“I know that. But I thought that you were always honest with me about how you felt about me dating him.”

“Dating him, yea. But this. This is not dating him. And you know that. Look I don’t want to fight with you. I hate that I hurt you. But as much as I am protective over your heart and how Hunter treats you, I am very protective of Hunter’s heart too. I hope you can understand that.”

“I do. I do understand that. I just wish you told me this sooner. Hurting him or you has never been my intention. I’m sorry. And I’m sorry about putting you in the middle all these years.”

“Look I’m going to tell you, what I told him. If you guys are not meant to be. Let each other go. This back and forth, does no one any good. It may be time to just move on.”

New tears grace Henley’s face as she covers her mouth.

Piper can hear her sobs, “Henley. Aw honey. I’m sorry. I don’t want you to cry. Where are you, let me come meet you?”

“No no, it’s fine. I’m fine. You know it’s true what they say- the truth hurts. I just- I love him. I do. And the thought of losing him, terrifies me. But I’m not ready to be with him yet. Like fully be with him.”

“Then I think you found your answer,” Piper says solemnly.

“I have to go get home and change before work. I’ll see you later tonight at the rehearsal dinner, ok?”

“Ok, Hen- I’m sorry again. I love you.”

“I know, I’m sorry too. Love you, bye.”

Henley hangs up, as she cries out loudly, covering her face with her hands.

Green light flickers before her. Telling her to go. Yet Henley is stuck frozen in stillness. People around honking her to move along. Seemingly a metaphor for her life.

To be continued…

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

-<3-

*Previously on Crazy Stalker Love– Read Chapter 4 HERE

The girls are all at a club dancing, drinking and having fun. Henley has really chosen to let go of all worry tonight.

She’s got a drink in her hand, and is dancing like her life depends on it. Strobe lights flashing neon shades. The music pulsating through their bodies as the DJ plays hit after hit. The dance floor full of diversity and sweat.

All of a sudden Henley notices one guy sitting at the bar, the same pair of eyes that she noticed starring at her all night. Being the ballsy blonde that she is, and with the help of a little liquid courage, she walks over to him.

“Excuse me, can I help you?” she says, her sass real and her vibe boozy.

“Oh I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to stare. You’re just so beautiful,” he says, his smirk illuminating perfect pearly white teeth.

Henley smirks, “I’m sure that line really works for you.”

The tall, dark and handsome man lets out a chuckle, his ocean eyes sparkling as he stares into hers.

“I’m Blake,” he says holding out his hand.

“Henley,” she says shaking his hand.

“Well Henley, Can I buy you a drink?” he asks, his smirk inducing some serious sexual tension.

Piper is dancing with the rest of her girls, dressed in her white feather boa and bride sash, a sparkling crown on top of her head, and her drink splashing all over as she dances. She looks around and notices Henley talking to some guy, and drunkenly stumbles over.

“Hey if you buy her a drink, you have to buy all of us one,” she says pointing to her girl gang on the dance floor as they scream, throwing their hands up in the air. Even Alexis seems to be enjoying herself. Surprisingly.  

“She’s right, it is a bachelorette party. Those are the rules.” Henley says nodding as she drapes an arm over Piper’s shoulders.

He laughs, and turns to the bartender, “6 shots of tequila.”

“Woooo!!!!” Piper screams waving her hands in the air with victory.

Henley laughs as she waves the rest of the ladies over to the bar.

They clink their glasses in cheers, knocking back the shots. Taking the shot with them, Blake smirks as his glare fixates on Henley.

***

Henley is dancing with her new mystery man, as the music blasts creating a thumping feeling in her heart. Or maybe it was a little more than just the music causing her heart to flutter. Suddenly he leans in, pulling her into a kiss.

Piper freezes as she sees Henley hesitate at first, but then she pulls him in closer, kissing him back.

Alexis leans over to Piper, “Hunter who? Right?”

“They aren’t official. She’s not doing anything wrong. Besides you’re one to talk.”

Alexis rolls her eyes, as she heads off to the bar.

Henley stands in the middle of the dance floor, her arms wrapped around this mystery guy. As they continue kissing, Blake’s hands sliding up and down the curves of her body. Suddenly Henley’s mind starts to clear and she imagines her nights with Hunter. How sweet he is. How he touches her, how HE feels. And the guilt surrounds her. Enveloping her.

She pulls away, needing a breather.

Blake looks down at her, smirking, “You okay?” he says breathlessly.

“Yea I just, I don’t think I should have done that.”

“Boyfriend?”

“It’s complicated. But I don’t wanna hurt him.”

“Hey blame it on the alcohol, right?” he says with a smirk as he moves away from her.

Henley lets out a small, fake laugh, old painful memories resurfacing.

“I know this is a long shot, but can I at least get your number, if I call and you don’t pick up I’ll know you worked things out with your ex. But if you answer, I’d really like to take you out,” he says his hands in his pockets, a sweet smirk on his face.

Piper watches from afar.

Henley looks up at him, not sure of what to do. Sure she loves Hunter, but they have so much complicated history sometimes it’s just exhausting. Blake seems like an easier, more whimsical choice. It’s not like she has to marry the guy, she can just have some fun.

“What the hell?” she says shrugging as she nods. Blake smiles and takes out his cell phone. Henley punches in her number handing it back with a smile.

Alexis walks over to Piper, “Wow, she’s giving him her number…classy.”

“God, why are you even here?” Piper says walking away, clearly bothered.

Alexis looks after her with what one might think are slightly saddened eyes. 

***

Piper fiddles with her keys as all the girls gather around the apartment door. She drops them, and they all laugh.

“Shh,” Piper says as she bends down to get them, the apartment door opens.

“I thought I heard something,” Hunter says clearly woken from a deep sleep, his hair tussled.

“Oh hey bro!” Piper yells. “Shhh,” Henley says laughing.

“Hi,” he smirks, as a chuckle escapes him.

Hunter looks at the girls, Piper hanging onto Henley as they both try to steady each other.

“Hey how’d you get that door open?” Piper says in her confused drunken stupor.

Hunter laughs, shaking his head, and opening the door to let the drunken girl parade in.

Alexis walks in and eyes Hunter.

“Alexis,” he says giving her a stern look.

“Hunter,” she says smirking.

Hunter shuts the door as he walks over to the kitchen to check on his sister.

Henley’s got it covered already. She grabs a bottle of Gatorade from the fridge handing it to Piper.

“Drink this,” Henley says.

“NO! I want to partyyyy!!!!” Piper says getting up and doing at little dance, only to lose her balance, as both Henley and Hunter catch her.

Hunter laughs, “Wow, she went in.”

“Oh yea,” Henley nods laughing.

“Where is my fiancé?”

“He’s already in bed,” Hunter says.

“Really?” Henley asks surprised. “You guys had some, rager huh?” she says laughing.

“Let’s just say Parker can’t hold his liquor as well as I had hoped,” Hunter says laughing.

“Oh No…Did he?”

“Chunks everywhere,” Hunter says grossed out. “His friends were all pretty messed up too, so I just sent everyone home in a cab. Came back with Parker, figured I’d keep an eye on him.”

“That was sweet. But I’m sorry that doesn’t sound like a fun night for you though,” Henley says still trying to get Piper to drink her Gatorade.

“Like I said it wasn’t about me,” Hunter says with a shrug of his shoulders.

“You’re a good friend,” she says smiling at him, feeling herself sobering up.

“So are you.” he says smiling at Piper and Henley.

“Yea well I’m about to be a strict one,” she says grabbing Piper’s face, and squeezing her cheeks in as she places the Gatorade bottle to her lips, making her take a few sips. “Piper, drink it.”

Hunter laughs, as Piper finally takes a sip.

“I just don’t want her to be dehydrated.”

“I’m sure she’ll be fine, (he says knowingly) she kind of looks like she just needs to sleep it off.”

“Where’s my fiancé!” Piper yells.

“Shhh, he’s already sleeping, why don’t you go join him,” Henley says, as she lifts Piper to her feet. Hunter helps her.

“I got her, I’ll be right back,” Hunter nods as Henley walks Piper toward her bedroom.

***

Hunter sits in the living room chair, Alexis and the other ladies on the floor and couch.

Henley walks back in, she’s looking at her phone and laughing.

“What’s up?” Hunter says looking up.

“The two of them are a mess,” Henley says showing the girls a picture of Piper and Parker, drunkenly sleeping in their bed.

“But they’re really cute,” she says smiling as she walks over to show Hunter.

He laughs.

“So Hen- did you tell Hunter about the cute guy you made out with tonight?” Alexis asks in a sweet nice tone.

Hunter and Henley look at her. Hunter confused, Henley shooting daggers at her.

“You gave him your number, right? What was his name- Blake or something?” she says pushing things further.

As Hunter’s eyes lock with Henley’s he can already tell it’s true. He gets up leaving the room, heading toward the guest room.

“Really, Alexis?” Henley says.

“What, I thought you guys were friends, don’t you guys talk?” she says casually.

“You are such a b- you know what I’m not wasting my breath on you,” she says going after Hunter. The other two girls just look at Alexis in awe, clearly feeling very uncomfortable.

***

“Hunter,” she says opening the door.

Hunter stands by the window, hands in his pockets, he turns hearing her.

“I’m sorry, maybe I’m misreading signals, but when you left here, I thought we were in a good place. Or was that all for show? As part of your showdown with Alexis.”

“Of course it wasn’t just for show.”

“So then what the hell, Henley?”

“We aren’t together right now.”

“Ok, yea fine, you and I aren’t exclusive, you keep saying that. But we’ve only been sleeping together and having this on and off relationship for years!”

“So you’re trying to tell me that you’re not seeing anyone else?” Henley asks thinking she knows all.

“No, I’m not.”

“Well, maybe you should be,” Henley says.

“What! No. I don’t want to. And whether you admit it or not, you don’t want me to either.  Look how jealous you get when Alexis even glances at me. You know that you and I are meant to be together, you just said so yourself. We’re not together, right now. As in you know we will be at some point.”

“Look, I’m just not ready to jump into a super serious relationship right now. And with us everything goes from a kiss to a marriage proposal within minutes. I cannot do that. I thought you understood that. I’m not intentionally trying to hurt you. I just wanted to not have to stress for one night. Kissing this guy was…”

“Oh god please, spare me,” he says waving his hand and turning away from her.

Henley pauses as she looks up at him, “It was just easy. I didn’t have to worry about where it was going, or what it meant to him or to me. And I’m sorry if you don’t want to hear that, but it’s the truth ok? I just needed to let loose tonight. I didn’t set out to meet someone, it just happened.”

“So you’re planning on seeing him again?”

“I don’t know.”

Hunter stares at her.

“What?”

“I hate this. I hate the idea of you with other guys. It physically makes me sick,” he says gesturing like he wants to throw up.

“And all I did was kiss him.”

Hunter looks at Henley knowingly.

“I didn’t mean to go there again,” she says frustrated with herself.

“No it’s fine, I get it. Unfortunately there’s a lot of messed up history between us. And believe me I take full responsibility for my actions. I didn’t know how to handle life back then without the help of drugs and alcohol. But I’m much stronger now. It’s the whole reason I became a cop. I’m a better guy now Hen- “

“You were never a bad guy Hunter,” Henley says looking away from his intense glare. “You just had a tough go once, and you kicked addiction’s ass. I’m sorry that I can’t let go of the past as easily as you.”

“Trust me. None of this is easy. All those years without you. They wrecked me. I’ll never forgive myself for losing you in the process. I’m sorry, no matter how many times you tell me you don’t want this. I just can’t let it go. I can’t let you go. Because, Henley I am still so in love with you, and that’s never going to go away. You can’t tell me that you don’t feel it when we’re together? I know you do,” he says looking at her with eyes mixed with love and heat.

Henley looks away, with a loud sigh, as her hands find her hips.

“Look if it’s any constellation, after kissing Blake I felt guilty. And we stopped because I thought about you and how if you found out, you’d be hurt and I didn’t want that.”

Hunter’s eyes soften as he pulls her toward him, hugging her, he places a kiss on her forehead.

Meanwhile back in the living room…

“Wow, they’ve been in there a long time, I hope everything’s ok,” Alexis says with fake concern.

“Oh please, you knew exactly what you were doing,” Brooke says rolling her eyes.

“I wouldn’t worry, they’re probably having makeup sex right now. Hunter loves Henley too much to be mad at her for long. Besides we all know he’s done far worse than kissing a stranger in a bar,” Camila says eyeing Alexis.

Alexis huffs loudly as she looks away, yet appearing slightly wounded.

***

Henley looks up at Hunter as she places a kiss on his lips.

“You love messing with me don’t you?” he says smirking down at her as he lifts her up bringing her over to the bed.

As moans and rattling can be heard, Camila points toward the guest bedroom with a laugh as Alexis grabs her coat, “Whatever, this night was lame,” she says leaving.

Camila and Brooke let out a few laughs as Brooke turns on the TV to drown out the noise.

***

Henley wakes up noticing clothes scattered all about. She’s all wrapped up in sheets and Hunter’s arms. Well it wouldn’t be the first time they couldn’t control themselves in someone else’s home.

***Flashback to freshmen year of college.

Henley grabs Hunter’s hand as she leads him into her bedroom, closing the door and locking it.

“Uh, what are you doing, there?” he asks with a smirk.

“Well seeing as this bedroom is a virgin and so am I and so are you,…I thought you and I could christen it together,” she says walking over to him.

Hunter gasps.

“Are you serious?” he asks with a laugh. “Are you suggesting that we have scandalous sex in your childhood bedroom?” he says jokingly.

Henley unbuckles his belt.

“Oh, you are serious?” he says nervously. “Henley, I can’t do this here,” he says trying to stop her.

“Of course you can, we have been waiting forever. We’re two adults in love. Let’s do it. I’m ready. I love you. Besides no one’s home, when has this ever happened?” Henley says smiling.

“Henley baby,” he says shaking his head nervously.

“Do you not want to?” she says pulling away from him, feeling rejected.

“Of course I want to. Henley are you kidding me? It’s all I think about. Like I’m serious it’s kind of embarrassing how much I think about it.”

Henley giggles, “So then what’s the problem?” she says pulling him toward her.

“Because, this is your parent’s house. Are you insane? If they come home…” he says his voice trailing off as she kisses him, his hands gripping her hips.

Henley places a kiss on his neck.

“Henley, what are you doing?” he says groaning, as she pulls him into another heated kiss. He pulls her against him as he deepens the kiss.

Henley smirks as he lifts her up and carries her over to the bed. Emotions escaping her, the two of them feel the lines blur between real and fantasy as they begin to undress each other.

“Damn it, Henley,” he says smirking against her lips.

“What?” she whispers looking up at him.

“I love you so much,” he says staring into her eyes.

“I love you too, so much,” she says wrapping her arms and legs fully around his waist as he starts to untie the top of her dress, placing kisses all along her chest. Their heart beats syncing up with each movement.

Back to the present…

She leans over and kisses his cheek, he stirs.

“Hey you, good morning,” he smiles.

“Good morning, I should get dressed, I have to check on the bride and get to work.”

“Ah right,” he says with a laugh, rubbing his eyes.

Henley leans in and cups his face into a slow, long kiss.

Hunter’s lips fall into a rhythm with hers as he shifts on top of her, her arms wrapping around his muscular back.

Hunter cups her face as he deepens each kiss, leaning into her as their bodies dip further into the mattress, creating their own unified indentation.

Henley lets out a moan, her nails scratching along his back creating new scratches on top of old ones.

***

Hunter gets out of the bed as he throws on his boxers.

“I’m gonna take a shower,” he says leaning down and placing a peck on Henley’s lips.

Henley smiles with a nod, as she lays in the bed, her bare leg peeking through the red satin sheets.

“You wanna join me?” he asks eyeing her body from head to toe.

“Maybe next time. I should really get going to work, I want to check on Piper before I go.”

Hunter nods, with a smirk.

“What?” she says playing coy.

“You said next time,” he says shrugging.

Henley laughs as she rolls her eyes.

“Mark my words Henley Hendrix, I will win you over,” he says leaning down and placing a slow kiss on her lips.

Henley laughs as she shakes her head.

Hunter smirks and turns to head out the door.

“Hey Hunt,” she says calling after him.

He smiles, turning back to her.

“I’m sorry about last night.”

“I’m not,” he says raising his eyebrows, with a smirk.

“Not that. You know what I mean. I’m sorry I hurt your feelings.”

“It’s ok. Hey the way I see it, you ended up in bed with me last night, so…” he says shrugging.

“I guess you’re right.” she says laughing.

“I’ll see ya later,” he says winking and heading into the bathroom.

Henley smiles as she covers her face and cozy’s into the bed.

To be continued..

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

-<3-

*Previously on Crazy Stalker Love – Read Chapter 3 HERE

Henley stares at her reflection in the mirror, as she tugs at her black, fitted dress, she tries to zip the back up herself but can only get it half way.

She peeks out the door and Hunter is coming from the bathroom.

“Hey!” she says waving him over.

“Hey,” he says walking over to her.

“Can you do me a favor?” she says opening the door to let him in.

“Sure.”

“Can you zip me?” she says turning and holding her hair up.

“Yea of course,” he says coughing as he sees some of her bare skin and her sexy black lace undergarments peeking through.

Hunter begins to zipper it lower.

“Up, Hunter,” she says sternly.

He laughs, “Oh right,” he says noticing her roll her eyes in her reflection in the mirror.

As Hunter zips her dress up, his knuckles slide up her back.

Henley gets a tingle up her spine, as she inhales sharply. Hunter places a sweet kiss on her shoulder.

She turns to face him quickly, needing to be rid of his touch before things escalate as they tend to do between the two of them, “Thank you,” she says walking to the vanity to put in her earrings.

“You look, amazing,” he says his eyes looking her over.

Henley smiles her thanks.

“So where are you girls going tonight?” he asks casually.

“Why? So you could come crash our party? No way. Piper doesn’t need her brother at her bachelorette party.”

“No, I mean I just want to get a clear image of how many guys might hit on you tonight. Cuz ya know, I know technically we’re not official. But if you could just maybe not talk to any other guys, I’d really appreciate that,” he says with a cute, yet sexy as hell smirk.

Henley touches up some red lipstick with a laugh and then walks out of the bedroom.

“So was that a no?” Hunter yells after her.

Hunter and Henley walk into the living room, as the other ladies start to file in- including the infamous Alexis.

“Hey Hunt, looking good,” Alexis says with a flirtatious red lipped smile as her brown eyes dance over him.

Henley tenses, as Hunter places his hand on the small of her back, a calm instantly falls over her.

“Henley, hi Hun, didn’t see you there,” Alexis says tossing her dark chocolate hair behind her shoulder.

“She’s my maid of honor, of course she’s here. Who the hell else would plan this badass night,” Piper says trying to smooth the tension as always.

“Of course, silly me” Alexis says with her usual fake sincerity.

“I’ve got a few other words to describe you,” Henley says her fists clenching.

Hunter grips her waist pulling her into him, “Easy,” he whispers, as he kisses her temple.

Alexis smirks at Henley, whose stare could burn a hole through a wall.

“Well we should get going!” Piper says excitedly, not wanting a full on territorial cat fight over Hunter to break out in the middle of her living room.

“Yes we should. Let’s go,” Henley says as she starts to walk away, Hunter pulls her back to him.

“Hey, remember what I said, I’m still yours. Always,” he whispers, his eyes staring into hers. “Don’t let her get to you.”

Henley looks at him, her eyes soften, she pulls him by the collar into a kiss, his hands circling her waist.

Piper smirks awkwardly at the public interaction.

Alexis notices, as she clearly gets annoyed, “Let’s just go already, don’t wanna keep all the hot strippers waiting.”

Hunter pulls away and looks at Henley, “Strippers?”

“No,” Henley says laughing and shaking her head, “Maybe. One.”

Hunter gives her a look, his eyebrow raises.

“I’ll miss you though,” she says smiling.

“Good enough, I’ll take it,” he says laughing, as she leans up and places another kiss on his lips. This time, he deepens it as Henley cups his face. His hands slide over her back side.

Piper grabs Henley’s arm pulling her away, “Excuse me, but I kind of need my maid of honor back.”

Hunter smirks, reluctantly letting Henley go as she gives him a pouty face and follows Piper’s lead toward the door.

“Tell me again how you’re not back together,” Piper says to Henley on the way out.

Hunter laughs, as Piper runs back in, and over to Parker.

“Bye baby,” she says kissing him.

Parker kisses her back, as he whispers into her lips, “Yea you almost left.”

“I didn’t though. I came back,” she says smiling.

“You’re forgiven,” Parker says with a smirk and a roll of his eyes.

“I love you, be good,” she says pointing at him, and placing a peck on his lips.

“I love you. You be good too!” he says smiling as he kisses her one last time.

“Later gentlemen! Take care of my man,” she says to Hunter, who nods as she rushes out.

***

“Damn Hunter, so you and Henley are still pretty hot and heavy. You weren’t kidding,” Parker says.

Hunter smiles.

“Damn so Henley, that’s your girl?” one of the guy’s ask.

“Yea, that’s my girl,” he says smirking as he takes a sip of his seltzer, “So gentlemen, at the wedding, hands off! Ok? That one is mine. Even if she doesn’t want to admit it.”

The guys all chuckle.

To be continued…

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

-<3-

*Previously on Crazy Stalker Love– Read Chapter 2 HERE

Henley rushes out of work and hops into her car, she dials Piper on her hands free cell device.

“Hello?” Piper says excitedly, smiling as she smacks her lips together, finishing up her makeup in her bedroom mirror. The lyrics…Girls just wanna have fun, oh girls just wanna have f-un in the background.

“Hey Bachelorette! I just left work, I’m on my way! I just got a text from the girls, they are all on their way to you now too.”

“Wooo! Yes! I am so freakin’ excited! I’m going to dance my ass off!” Piper says as she does a little cha-cha in her bedroom.

Henley laughs.

“Hey Parker, are you ready man! Your last night of freedom awaits!” Hunter screams.

Henley hears him through the phone, she’d know that voice anywhere.

“Oh…Hunter’s there?” Henley says curiously.

“Oh Yea, Parker was finally able to get a night off work, so his best man called Hunter and they organized an impromptu bachelor party. I’m sorry, I mean we’re all leaving and going our separate ways, so you won’t have to be around each other too much,” Piper says worried.

“Oh that’s ok, I’m not worried about Hunter. Hunter I can handle. It’s Alexis, I’d rather not see.”

“Then why did you invite her?”

“Because she was on your list.”

“She’s on my list, because she’s your oldest friend. I thought all these years that that’s why we kept her around? Nostalgia and all. Good outweighs the bad?”

“When it comes to Alexis I think once college hit it was all mostly bad.”

 “I’m sorry. I just feel like maybe somewhere deep deep DEEP down, she still wishes you guys were friends.”

“I highly doubt that,” Henley says rolling her eyes as she cruisers through the green lights.

“I can uninvite her?” Piper says uncomfortably.

“Don’t worry about it. This is not about me, this is about you, and this is your night, and it is going to be AMAZING! I’m at your door, buzz me,” Henley says beeping her car alarm and rushing to Piper’s building door.

“Hunter, buzz the door! It’s Henley,” she screams, hanging up.

Henley walks up the stairs, to find the door slightly open. She walks in to find a bunch of guys hanging out, Hunter throws a beer to the bachelor, “Heads up Parker, you need to catch up!”

Henley freezes, seeing Hunter holding a beer gives her an instant flashback to darker times…

A younger version of Henley runs down some front door steps, “Hunter! Hunter Stop!”

Hunter stumbles as he trips over his own feet, a beer in his hand.

Henley grabs him by the arm, pulling him toward her, wrapping her arms tightly around him.

“Hunter please, you can’t drive, give me your keys,” she says reaching in his front pocket.

“Oh hello,” he says smirking as he laughs, cupping her face. “God, I love you so much.”

“I love you too.” she says smiling up at him, her nerves also evident.

“Yea, but I don’t know why.” he says his face falling.

“What?” she says confused.

“Haven’t you figured it out yet, Henley? Baby, I’m no good for you. I’m not going anywhere. But you…You are just so much better. You deserve everything. And well, I just can’t give you that,” he says pulling away from her.

“What…what are you saying? Stop it. Stop saying that. Come here,” she says pulling him back to her.

“No, I have to go. I have to get out of here.”

“Ok, so we’ll go. I’ll take you, wherever you want to go.”

“No. Don’t you get it Henley? I just can’t be with you right now,” Hunter says pulling away from her and staggering his footsteps as he tries to stay upright.

“What does that even mean? Where is this coming from?” Henley says her eyes filling.

“It’s always been there.”

“You don’t mean any of this, you’re just drunk. Come on, you need to sleep it off,” she says tugging him toward the car.

“No. No. I am finally mustering up the courage to say this.”

People start gathering around as Hunter’s voice gets louder. Henley takes notice, looking around uncomfortably.

“Ok could we maybe talk about this when we get home? Privately,” Henley says pulling her sweater closed as the fall breeze kicks up.

“No, if people want a show, why not give it to them, huh!” He yells tossing his beer bottle, it smashes against the concrete jungle causing the audience that has gathered to gasp and Henley to jump slightly.

Piper rushes over, “Hunter what the hell are you doing?”

“Oh there she goes, Saint Piper, coming to the rescue. If I remember correctly, I’m pretty sure I’m the older sibling,” he says slurring his words.

“Yea well maybe you should start acting like it. Give me. Your keys,” She says sternly as she holds out her hand.

Hunter laughs.

Henley and Piper exchange glances.

“Hunter please, let’s just go home, ok?” Henley says her voice low, her eyes pleading with him as she holds her hand out waiting for his keys.

Hunter sighs as he hands her them, draping his arm around her shoulders.

“I’m sorry. You’re right. You. are. right. Let’s go.” he says as Henley let’s out a sigh of relief.

Her eyes meeting Piper’s.

“I’ve got him. Thanks Piper.”

“Please call me when you get home,” Piper says hugging her.

Henley nods as she helps him into the car. Sadly something she would get far too used to.

***

Back to present day…

Hunter turns seeing her, “Hey Hen, you okay?”

“Yea, um, I’m fine.” she says eyeing the drink in his hand.

He notices, “It’s a seltzer, Hen,” he says showing her the label.

“I’m sorry,” she says looking away awkwardly.

“It’s ok, thanks for caring,” he says smirking, as he kisses her on the cheek.

“Hunter, can I talk to you?” she says taking him by the hand and pulling him over to the side, to avoid nosey eyes and ears. “Do you really think you should be here?”

“Ouch,” he says faking hurt feelings.

“You know what I mean. You’ve been sober for so long.”

“And I intend to stay that way.”

“Yea but-“

“Henley- I’m ok. I promise you. I don’t have a single urge to drink that shit. But my little sister is getting married. And her future husband deserves to have a kick ass night. Drinking- letting loose a little, and getting drunk isn’t a bad thing, if you do it every once in a while. For me, I didn’t do things the way I should have. But Parker, I’m sure he knows his limits, and this is his night. It’s not about me. I can put my shit aside for him. For one night.”

“You’re right. I’m sorry.” She says covering her face with her hands, embarrassed. “I just, I saw you with a beer in your hand for a fragment of a second and it was like instantly my heart was in my throat. I know I shouldn’t feel that way still, but…”

“Hey it’s ok. I get it, but I’m good. You don’t have to treat me like I’m going to break any second. I’m taking care of myself this time around. I’ve got this. Have fun tonight,” he says leaning in and cupping her face, he places a sweet kiss on her lips, and she allows him to.

“Piper’s super excited, she’s been playing Girls Just Wanna Have Fun on repeat since I got here,” he says laughing as Piper comes out screaming. Henley starts laughing.

“There she is! You look gorgeous!” Henley yells running over to her best friend hugging her. “I cannot believe you’re freakin’ getting married.”

Hunter and the group of guys watch, a smirk forming on Hunter’s face.

“I just need to change before the other girls get here,” Henley says.

“Yes of course, come, come,” Piper says taking her hand and dragging her back toward the bedrooms.

To be continued…

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

-<3-

*Previously on Crazy Stalker Love– Read Chapter 1 HERE

The Next Day….

Hunter walks up to the door of a large building and rings the bell.

“Who is it?” a female voice cracks over the speaker.

“It’s me.”

“I’ll buzz you in,” she says as the buzzer sounds, Hunter grabs the door handle.

He walks up the stairs to find a very pouty face waiting for him in front of an apartment door.

“I’m guessing you spoke to Henley already?” he asks sheepishly.

“Of course I did, she’s my best friend and she’s planning my wedding. She’s practically here all the time.”

“Except for when she’s in my bed. Which is often. So don’t let her try to tell you we’re not a thing,” Hunter says pointing at her as he walks in all non-chalant.

“Ok ew, I love you and I love her, but I do not need details. None, whatsoever. Why do you both not get that? I’m your sister. Sisters do not need to know that shit,” she says making a gag noise, Hunter laughs.

“So she HAS been talking about me?” he says smirking slightly.

“You know I’m not going to tell you anything. Best Friend code,” she says crossing her arms.

“What happened to the brother/sister sibling code? That’s a thing, right?”

She shrugs with a smile, shaking her head no.

“Come on Piper, be honest with me, how bad is it this time?” he says turning to face his sister, with serious, sad eyes. “Can I fix this?”

“She was really upset when I saw her last night. I just think you guys need to take a beat, ya know? Give her some space.”

“Space. God, I hate that word. She’s had years of space,” Hunter says huffing as he paces her kitchen floor.

“I don’t think she sees it that way,” Piper says shrugging her shoulders. She hands him a bottle of water.

“Oh really, well how does she see it, then? Because it’s a mystery to me. She never talks to me.”

“Hunter…”

Piper’s fiancé emerges from their bedroom.

“Hey Hunt,” he says holding out a fist, as Hunter taps it with his own.

“Hey Parker man, what’s up?” he says nodding toward his future brother in law.

“Hey Baby,” he says kissing Piper on the cheek, as she smiles.

“So Parker do you have any advice for me, about Henley? Since my sister is no help whatsoever.”

“Hey!” Piper says shooting him little daggers with her eyes in a joking manner.

Hunter gives her a playful scowl.

“Oh, man, I don’t know about that one. She was pretty fired up last night when she came by to drop off the invitations.”

“I mean that sounds like Henley. She can be a firecracker. But I kind of love that. What was she saying?” Hunter says casually.

“NOT another word Parker,” Piper says pointing at him sternly.

“Piper come on. Give me something. I’m drowning here. You know how much I love Henley. I just want her back. Look I know I messed up, I tend to do that a lot. But I didn’t think I’d still be paying for the same sins nearly a decade later. It’s like I can’t do anything right.”

“Hunter. I’m sorry. I don’t know what to say. All it really boils down to is…you can’t tell her how to feel. Sometimes people process things differently. There is no timeline. Call her. Apologize. And then listen to what she wants. Unfortunately it may not be the same thing that you want. And you have to respect that. Chasing her isn’t going to work. She will only feel suffocated. You know Henley. She can sometimes scare pretty easily.”

“That’s actually amazing advice,” Parker says smiling at his bride to be.

“Thanks babe,” Piper says scrunching her nose as she places a sweet kiss on his lips.

“Oh come on, no one wants to see that.” Hunter says covering his eyes in a joking manner.

“Oh please, this is nothing compared to the YEARS of PDA I had to endure between you and Henley,” Piper says rolling her eyes back at him, overdramatizing a bit.

“True.” Hunter says shrugging. “Thanks for the advice,” he says holding his hand out to his sister as she high fives him.

“You’re welcome,” she says smiling at her brother as she shakes her head at him.

Hunter opens the apartment door to find Henley standing there, about to knock.

“Hey,” he says his breath catching in his throat.

“Hi,” she says standing there, frozen, a few bags in her hands.

“Oh hey, I didn’t realize we had plans to meet this morning,” Piper says smiling and jumping into the awkward moment to ease the tension.

“We didn’t, I just figured I’d drop off some stuff for the bachelorette party, on my way to the office. I should have called. I’m sorry,” she says avoiding Hunter’s stare.

“Don’t be silly, you never have to call, come in,” she says waving her in, “Hunter was just on his way out.”

“I was, have a good one,” he says his eyes meeting Henley’s upon closing the door behind him.

Henley lets out an audible sigh.

“I’m so sorry about that. If I would have known the both of you were coming, I would have arranged the times differently,” Piper says pulling her best friend into a hug.

“Oh please, he’s your brother, he has every right to be here. Besides I don’t want this weirdness between Hunter and I to get in the way of us having an awesome time tonight!”

Piper smiles.

***

Henley walks out of the building to find Hunter leaning against her car.

“What do you want? I have to get to work.”

“So do I. This won’t take long.”

Henley makes a face as she stops, hands on hips, looking at him expectedly.

“I’m sorry about last night. I didn’t mean to offend you in any way. I just meant that maybe talking about it might help you work through some things. I wasn’t trying to tell you how to feel or what to do. I just hate to see you unhappy, especially knowing if I’m the cause of it.”

“Thank you for saying that. I may have over-reacted a bit. It was harsh of me to bring up everything that happened with Alexis. I know it was a long time ago, and I shouldn’t still be throwing that in your face every time I feel insecure.”

Hunter smirks, “I deserved it.”

“No you didn’t. You deserved it a decade ago. And plenty of blame went around back then. I know you’re a better man now.”

“A better man that you’d consider getting back together with?” he says smirking, yet his eyes hopeful.

“Don’t push your luck just yet.” she says smiling.

Hunter smirks, “Ok fine, but just so you know, you have no reason to feel insecure when it comes to our relationship. You’re the love of my life, Hen.  I’m a patient man. I don’t mind waiting on you forever, and I plan on doing whatever it takes to get you back.”

Henley rolls her eyes as she smirks, heading to her car.

“Good bye Hunter,” she says her tone sassy.

“Bye Henley, I’ll see you tonight,” he says smirking, knowing their usual nightly ritual.

Henley scoffs as she gets in her car.

Hunter chuckles as he walks towards his own car.

To be continued…

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

-<3-

*To view my full dream cast click HERE

Henley kisses Hunter one last time, as she springs up from his bed, tugging her black skinny jeans up her legs, the color matching her lace bra. Her red lipstick visibly faded.

“Come on Hen, where are you going?” he says reaching for her, wrapped up in charcoal gray bed sheets. The lighting dim and romantic.

“I have to go, I’m planning your sister’s wedding, remember?” she says looking around for her shirt, her blonde bob tousled, yet somehow still fabulous. That was Henley for you.

Hunter smiles as he reaches under his pillow, pulling her black shirt out and waving it, in a teasing manner.

Henley glares at him with a smirk as she goes to grab it, he yanks it away from her, making his way onto his knees to face her. He hides it behind his back, a sly smirk on his face.

“Just stay,” he says, pulling her by the waist, his puppy dog, brown eyes almost enough to make Henley melt on the spot.

Henley cups his face and kisses him, as Hunter lets his guard down a bit falling into her embrace, she snatches her shirt back. Hunter laughs against her lips.

“Ah! Sneaky,” he says his voice raspy, as he pulls away, looking at her. Henley raises her eyebrows, she laughs, slipping her black tank top on.

Hunter rolls his eyes and falls back on to the bed.

Henley grabs her black high heeled booties and sits on the edge of the bed to put them on.

Hunter leans over her shoulder, nuzzling into her, he kisses her neck.

“Stay. Come on, you never stay over anymore,” Hunter whispers, his breath tickling her, as he plants another kiss on her neck.

Henley smiles to herself slightly, turning her head, her eyes meet his. A mix of brown and hazel.

“This was a one-time thing Hunter, it doesn’t mean we’re back together.”

Hunter smirks, leaning in, he kisses her passionately. And Henley. She lets him. Like the many many MANY times she has before.

“You just keep telling yourself that,” he whispers against her lips.

Henley moves away from him, and stands up. Hunter sighs at the distance created.

She shrugs her leather jacket on as Hunter watches, clearly bothered.

“What?” she says looking at him, trying to act aloof.

“You keep saying this is a one-time thing. But babe, we’ve been at this for years.”

“This is the last time.”

“You’ve been saying that for years too. It’s practically your mantra,” he chuckles holding out his arms to the side, in a very high and mighty way.

Henley looks at him, narrowing her glare.

“What?” he says huffing, “Come on Hen, I love you, you know that I love you. So the question is… do you still love me?” he says pulling her to him.

“Don’t, Hunter. I can’t go there. Not now,” she says pulling his hands away from her waist.

“Okay then, when?”

“You and I tried to do the whole relationship thing. We don’t work.”

“I disagree.”

“Are you forgetting everything that happened?”

“No. Of course not. I couldn’t if I tried. But we were kids back then. I made mistakes. But that’s not who I am now. That was never who I truly was, even back then. I just lost my way for a bit. But it IS different now.”

“I just can’t do that again. Not if I want to keep my sanity,” she says grabbing her purse.

“Hen, it wouldn’t be the same. You know that.”

“No. I don’t know that Hunter,” she says looking at him with uncertainty.

“I’ve changed over the past decade,” he says rolling his eyes at the notion of having this same fight. “And I’ve worked really hard to put my life back together. I thought you of all people would appreciate that.”

“I do. And I am so glad that you have. You’re healthy and that means the world to me. But I can’t honestly say that I trust you with my heart,” Henley says just blurting it out.

“Are we seriously talking about Alexis again?” he says frustrated as he looks away.

“I’m sorry. I know its ancient history. But it is always there. It’s always going to be there,” she says huffing and shrugging her shoulders.

“Henley,” he says getting out of bed and taking her hands in his, “I was out of my mind when that happened. You can’t honestly think that I would have ever done something like that if I was sober?”

“I know that. I’ve heard this same speech over and over again. We’ve had this exact same fight at nauseam, but every time I turn around there she is. And I just-” she says choking up.

“Listen, I am the first person to admit that what I did was wrong. And I am not trying to pretend that it didn’t happen or make light of it. But, I’m not the one that kept in touch with Alexis after college you and Piper did that all on your own. So how can you blame me for that? If she’s around it’s because you allow her to be. I don’t want any part of her or that night. Trust me. It was one of the worst nights of my life.”

“Her being in our lives is all your sister, she’s too understanding. She forgives everyone. Me, I can’t stand that that…female.”

“Whoa, Catty,” he says laughing as he tucks a piece of hair behind her ear, trying to soften the moment. “Trust me, I’m not a fan of her either.”

“Yea well she ruined my life. You were mine. And she just couldn’t let me have that.”

Hunter looks at Henley, his brow furrows, as his eyes water slightly.

“I’m still yours,” he says cupping her face in his hands.

“It’s not the same. I’m not the same. Whatever this is between us, is not the same,” she says pulling her hands from his and walking away from him.

“I never meant to hurt you. I was in a bad place back then, and I dragged you through my mess. Believe me- if I could go back and change all of that, I would. I swear to you Hen.”

“I don’t blame you entirely, I know that you had a problem. You were going through a lot and I just hate her so much for taking advantage of that. I don’t hate many people. But I HATE her. She was one of my best friends, I’ve known her my whole life. She stayed up with me, as I cried worried out of my mind wondering where the hell you were, when you would go on one of your benders. She knew how scared I was to lose you. She knew how much I loved you. And then-” Henley’s voice cracks as her eyes water.

“Hen, hey, come here,” he says cupping her face, wiping a stray tear from her cheek with his thumb, his eyes glistening too. “I swear to you, all I’ve ever wanted was you.”

“I have to go,” she says pulling away from him, she brushes away a few other tears as she heads for the door.

“Henley. Hen-” he says rushing after her.

“This is exactly why I didn’t want to have this conversation, I knew all this shit would come back up. I already lived through this once, I don’t need to live through it again. I can’t. And you are the last person I need to comfort me about this.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you. But that’s the most we’ve talked in months.”

“I told you, that if we were going to do this, sex was all this was supposed to be. I don’t want anything more. I can’t have anything more. Not with you. It’s too hard.”

“Henley. You and I are never going to be that type of couple that can just have sex and have it not mean anything. We were each other’s firsts. Couples don’t forget their firsts.”

“We’re not a couple.”

“Yes we are. We always will be, and you know that. You just won’t admit it,” he says barely above a whisper. His heart aching in his chest.

“I have to go,” she says trying to get to the door.

“You know it helps to talk about it. You haven’t dealt with any of your feelings, all these years. You just shut down, and push past it. That’s why you’re still so angry.”

“Still angry? I have a right to be angry! You were the love of my life. And then you screwed one of my best friends. But hey it’s all cool, because you were too high and wasted for it to mean anything, right? Let me ask you a question if the situation was reversed and you found me in bed with Leo or someone you loved and trusted, would you be able to forgive me?”

Hunter stills, not knowing what more he could say.

“I would be a wreck. Completely devastated. Of course I would be. But I would still want to be with you, because I know that no matter what, I will always be in love with you. And if I knew you still loved me and that you were sorry… I’d find a way to forgive you. I’d fight like hell to make it work. The way I see it is, I’d rather have you in my life and love you, then have to miss you and be miserable for the rest of my life. Henley we have something here, something that most people don’t get to have in a lifetime. Can you honestly tell me you don’t still feel that?”

Henley softens needing to give herself and her heart a break.

“I can’t do this anymore,” she says her tone defeated. She leaves his apartment.

Hunter watches her walk away from him, for yet another night. He runs his hands through his hair, sighing loudly.  Glancing around his now very empty and lonely apartment.

To be continued….

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

-<3-