chapter 28 part 2

"Thank you, sir," ash smiled.

"lana, would you help me set the table?" Mrs. Maheswaran asked.

"I'll help, " ash chimed In, walking over to the table.

"Same." lana smiled at ash and grabbed silverware from the kitchen drawer.

Mr. Maheswaran walked over and sat down at the table after ash and lana were done they did the same. Mrs. Maheswaran set the bowls of chili and a side of cornbread in front of everyone. 2

"This looks delicious," ash said to Mrs. Maheswaran.

"Thank Doug for the cornbread, It's his secret recipe." Mrs. Maheswaran said gesturing toward Doug.

"Oh please, you're the chef here," Doug replied.

"This chain of compliments will never end. Let's eat, I'm starving." lana said and smiled.

"Agreed, " ash replied smiling back.

Everyone dug into the food and chatted.

       ~           ~          ~           ~            ~

lana's POV

We had just finished dinner and I took the bowls and plates to the sink. ash, like always, was eager to help. I smiled at him and put the dishes in the dishwasher.

ash was reaching around me to put a dish away, but I didn't realize and went to turn around to grab my phone.

He almost dropped the dish but summoned a small bubble around the plate to keep it from shattering.

"Stahhhhp, I could have dropped my croissant!" ash joked while informing the bubble and the plate fell into his hand. 17

I laughed but stopped when I saw my parents confused and amazed expressions. "Ha, It was a vine reference," I said trying to break there stare at ash.

"Right, those short clips of people screaming and pronouncing words incorrectly." She said and cleared her throat. My father just looked back down at the article he was reading.

They clearly we're still not used to gem stuff, Including magical pink bubbles.

I tried to save ash from embarrassment, "Do you have a set time you have to be home?" I asked.

"Oh, uh no the gems are pretty laid back," he said with a half-smile.

"Let's watch a movie or something," I said while walking towards the stairs. ash followed.

"I want that door open three inches." My dad said while taking a sip from his mug. 22

"Deal, " I quickly went up the stairs and opened my door.

"Thank you for dinner, " ash told my parents before coming up the steps and following me to my room.

"Sorry about them, they still aren't used to gem stuff," I explained, shutting the door behind us, ignoring my father's request. I sat down on my bed. 18

"It's fine, I'm pretty used to It by now," ash said while rubbing the back of his neck.

"It was cute how polite you were," I said while he sat next to me.

"I was trying to make a good impression, I hope It worked." He sighed.

"They love you, trust me, " I laid my head on his shoulder, "everybody does," I said and grabbed ash's hand.

"You realize you just said you love me right?" ash said with a cute smile.

My face was painted with blush, "Isn't it obvious?" I said slowly. 1

I glanced up at him, my heart racing. He was blushing too with a goofy smile on his face.

"Shut up." I hit his arm softly.

"I didn't say anything." He snickered.

"Yes, you did." I teased but was interrupted when ash grabbed my other hand and looked me straight in the eye. I blushed more than before, the butterflies In my stomach we're going insane.

"I love you too." He said quietly but clearly. His words sending a chill up my spine. Our faces growing closer, like magnets needing to connect, we kissed.

I let go of ash's hands and put mine around the back of his neck. His hand on my back, the other on my cheek. He tilted his head to deepen the kiss. We both broke apart to catch our breaths, quickly joining again. Like a tide, there was a rhythm to the kiss. I bit his bottom lip softly and the hand on my back pushed, pulling me closer. I lost it when he moved from my lips to my jawline, then my neck. I lightly tugged at his hair.

He began to suck softly on my neck. I exhaled softly blushing like crazy. He left soft kisses up my neck and met my lips again. I kissed him back, I felt a smile cross his lips as I did so. The heat of the moment swept me away, I wrapped my arms around him while smiling Into the kiss. I felt so secure in his arms like nothing else mattered. I felt a gentle hand on my waist, and another on my thigh, I froze for a moment excited yet nervous to move forward. ash picked up on my nervousness and took away his hand.

"I'm sorry, " he said softly. 18

I didn't want to make him feel bad, I had just haven't done anything like his before, I was scared I would mess up.

"No, It's me. I'm just nervous." I said kissing him lightly.

"I guess we got a little carried away huh, " he said softly and smiled.

"Yeah, " I blushed resting my head on his shoulder.

"We're you trying to give me a hickey?" I questioned smiling.

I looked up and saw him blushing, "Uh, yeah, I forgot I had healing spit." He confessed and laughed a bit. 4

My head already laying on his shoulder I inched closer to his neck, softly exhaling. I felt him jump a little when I started leaving soft kisses on his neck. I kissed all over his neck until I found a spot he tensed at. I giggled and kept kissing It. I felt the hand on my waist tighten a little. I opened my eyes to glance at ash although when I opened my eyes everything was pink, he had formed his bubble. He had his head tilted back, his eyes closed. I blushed at his response to me kissing that spot. When he realized he had formed his bubble, Instead of unforming It, he blushed. When he noticed me looking at him he attacked me with kisses. I giggled and blushed, he kissed my neck and then my lips. I kissed him back, while he was on top of me. I blushed realizing our current position. 7

He put his hand back on my thigh which made me gasp a little. While my lips were parted he slowly slid his tongue into my mouth. I blushed and smiled surprised. His grip on my thigh tightened ever so slightly when my tongue met his. I moved a hand from his neck to his hair and tilted my head. How Is It that a guy who has never made-out before Is so danm good at It? 35

Then I heard footsteps coming up the stairs. I quickly got out from under ash, he looked confused for a second then realized the footsteps too. He immediately sat beside me and pulled out his phone and clicked on a random TubeTube video. 8

He unformed his bubble forgetting It was there. I was blushing like crazy and tried to fix my hair because It was disheveled. My dad opened the door.

"I said three Inches, " he looked at both of us, then had a confused expression on his face. "What are you watching?" He questioned.

ash looked at the title of the video not even knowing what he clicked on.

He paused and then hesitantly said, "Dogman sightings.." We both broke out laughing and my father just had a confused and weirded out expression on his face.

"Shouldn't you be getting home? It's been two hours." He asked ash.

ash looked at his watch surprised, "Oh, wow. I lost track of time I guess." He said while rubbing his neck.

I blushed knowing why. 15

My dad walked back down the hallway, I put a pillow over my face, realizing that I just made-out for the first time. ash pulled the pillow away from my face and kissed me.

"I should probably go, If I'm not home soon Pearl is going to watch me sleep because lion likes to sit on my face If I'm gone for too long." I giggled at his statement.

"I'm not going to kiss you if you smell like lion's rear end," I said playfully pushing his face away.

"I better get home fast then." He smiled.

I sighed, unhappy he was leaving, "I have a feeling I'm going to miss you like crazy." I said while laying my head on his chest.

"I'm going to miss you too." He said and kissed my forehead. 6

ash put his phone into his jean pocket and stood up. I yawned and stood up as well. We both walked downstairs. My face was still red but I was hoping my parents wouldn't notice.

"Thank you for dinner, everything was delicious." ash smiled and thanked my parents. 1

"No problem, thank you for coming over, drive safe." My mother smiled.

I walked ash out to his car while my dad stared out the window at us.

"Oh wow! Your car is super cool." I exclaimed while looking at the red vehicle.

"I was hoping you'd like it." He smiled. He opened the door and got in the drivers seat.

I leaned against the driver's side car door, the window was open. "I had fun tonight, " I blushed for the millionth time.

"I had a lot of fun, we should do this again sometime." He said with a cheeky smile. I giggled and bent down to kiss his cheek. 4

"I need to ask my parents about that vacation thing but I'm pretty sure I can go," I said while backing up a little, my father was still staring out the window. 3

"Text me when you get the all-clear, oh yeah and bring a swimsuit there Is a lake." He said and smiled widely.

"I have not gone swimming In forever, this will be fun!" I smiled.

"Goodnight strawberry, " he said while turning the key. "Love you, " he said softly so my parents wouldn't hear.

"Night biscuit, I love you too. " I said while waving, still blushing like mad.

I walked back inside, stuck In a love-stricken trance. I couldn't stop smiling while I walked upstairs back to my room, and closed the door. I laid flat on my bed, still wrapping my brain around what just happened. I blushed again thinking about what we just did.

All I knew was, I couldn't wait to see him again.

I drove home, my face still red. I couldn't stop smiling, I think I made a good impression and I made-out for the first time. My face got even more red when the thought crossed my mind. I pulled In front of the beach house. Still lost in thought I got out of my car, locked it, and went up the wooden steps. I pushed open the screen door and walked inside heading into the kitchen. I set my wallet and keys down on the counter and grabbed a glass from the cabinet, filling it with water.

I was about to walk upstairs when I heard the warp pad. dawn, Pearl, and Amethyst all stepped off the warp.

I smiled and waved, "Hey guys!"

"Ste-man!" Amethyst ran over to me and we did our signature handshake, right when we finished our handshake Pearl looked at me with a worried expression.

"Something wrong?" I asked Pearl.

She grabbed my face, "Are you feeling alright?" She questioned.

"Fine, why?" I asked concerned.

"You're so red, you look sick, " pearl said walking to the kitchen to grab a thermometer.

"That's what smooching does to ya." Amethyst punched my arm. 10

I blushed more but laughed It off.

dawn just stood there smiling, being her mysterious self. I stopped Pearl from checking my temperature assuring her I was fine. I took a sip of water, almost choking when Amethyst shapeshifted Into lana. 58

"Alright, I think I'm gonna head to bed," I said trying to give attention to Amethyst's games. I walked upstairs hearing Pearl scold Amethyst In the background. I shut my door behind me, pulling out my phone. I sat on my bed and turned on the TV. I got up to put my shoes away and change out of my dress shirt. I put on some sweatpants with an old t-shirt. I laid on my bed and watched reruns of Lonely Blade. I drifted to sleep at some point in the movie because I was woken up to my phone screaming at me, or at least that's what It felt like. I double-tapped the screen blinded by my brightness is all the way up.

"Argh," I mumbled quickly turning my brightness down. 19

Pearl quickly walked In, "Are you alright?"

"Yes, I'm fine. I thought we talked about you not watching me sleep anymore, Pearl." I mumbled, still being half asleep.

"I wasn't watching, I was just listening." she pouted. "I don't want to suffocate under that pet of yours. Humans need oxygen," she explained while shooing Lion. 22

"He's not a pet, he is my magical companion and he's a good boy!" I said while smothering lion and in hugs. I laughed as he licked my face. 2

"What about you're phone?" Pearl questioned.

"Hm?" I said wiping Lion slobber off my face. "Oh right, someone texted me," I looked at my phone and saw that lana texted me. I excitedly clicked on the message.

Pearl was picking up laundry that was on my floor and putting it in a basket.

"I gotta call lana, I'll be right back Pearl!" I said basically shouting rushing out the sliding door of my bedroom, onto the patio to have a small amount of privacy. I dialed her number, clearing my throat. She picked up the phone, she sounded tired.

"Hey," she yawned, "sorry to call you so late, I woke up and now I can't fall back asleep."

"Huh?" I looked at the time and It was two-thirty. "Oh, yeah I guess It is late," I said not even knowing the time.

"I just wanted to tell you that I can go, to the vacation thing this weekend," she said, yawning again. "I forgot to call you before I went to bed, I was really tired." 8

Pearl was still spying on me so I used my floating powers to raise myself high enough to sit on the roof, leaning against the chimney.

"Wait, what are you doing?" lana asked curiously, probably hearing me fumbling around trying not to fall.

"I'm sitting on the roof, " I said while finally finding a spot where I wasn't slipping. "The gems are killing me, I'm trying to get a moment alone." I sighed.

"I'm sorry, what did they do this time?" lana asked concerned.

"Amethyst is constantly making jokes about our relationship, Pearl Is a stalker, and-" before I could finish my sentence I heard Pearl scoff, obviously listening to our conversation. "PEARL!" I shouted. I heard lana giggle, finding Pearl being overprotective funny.

"I'm sorry, my parents were super strict until about a year ago, It was awful. If you ever need someone to rant to about this stuff, I'm all ears. " lana reassured.

"Thank you, that's really sweet of you, " I smiled. Then I heard Pearl walk outside onto the patio again. "Alright, that's It. I'm gonna go sit in my car until morning." I said while using my floating powers to get down from the roof and get to my car.

"Do you wanna know what I did to stop my parents from being so strict?" lana asked.

"Yea, how'd you do It?" I asked curiously, unlocking my car and getting inside, shutting the car door behind me.

"Well, first I showed them that I could be trustworthy, which you've already done, I mean you did save the planet. " she laughed a bit.

"Oh come on, we did that together. I never would of been able to do it without you." I smiled.

"Stop, your gonna give me diabetes, " she joked. 5

"Nah, cause I'll just kiss you and you'll be good as new, " I attempted to flirt, blushing In the process. 5

She giggled, "ash, I can't flirt at two in the morning, my brain function isn't at full yet, I need coffee first." She laughed and I snickered, a little embarrassed she saw right through my attempt to flirt. 1

"Anyway, what I was saying was that all you have to do Is have a conversation with the gems. Tell them you need some space, I'm sure they'll understand." She said calmly.

"Why do you always give the best advice?" I smiled.

"Well, I am reading a book on psychology. It's pretty interesting." She said sounding all smart.

"I'm going to take your advice, thank you, " I smiled, "Oh and the cabin Is super cool, It has a fridge with a water dispenser and a lake, with a dock you can go fishing at, and a jacuzzi! You're going to love it!" I exclaimed.

"I'm sure I will, " she giggled at how excited I was.

"Sorry, I'm rambling again aren't I?" I said and laughed at how stupid I was being.

"Little bit, but It's cute, " she snickered.

"Mhm, I don't believe you can't flirt at two in the morning, you're doing it right now, " I teased.

"Stop, please I can't laugh, I'm going to wake up my parents." She said trying to laugh quietly.

"Okay fine, " I laughed a bit, "My dad and I got the plan all set up on the travel part. It's about a three-hour drive to the cabin so the gems are going to ride in his van, and I'll drive my car. I'd rather not be stuck in a van with the gems for three hours, " 1

"I don't blame you, that sounds unpleasant." lana agreed.

"Don't get me wrong, I love them to death but I'd rather take a road trip with you, " I leaned back In my seat my face becoming more red.

"I'm driving with you, right?" She questioned.

"No, cause I would totally put you through three hours of Amethyst telling you to " get some" as she likes to put it," I said sarcastically and laughed.

"Okay good, I'll bring snacks for the road, " she said and then whisper screamed "Road trip!" Trying not to wake her parents.

I smiled at how cute she was being, I whisper screamed back, "Rooaad triipp!" We both laughed. 9

"I'm so tired, yet I don't want to sleep, " she yawned.

"You can sleep If you want, I mean It is three in the morning," I said worried she was going to be sleep-deprived.

"I know, but If I hang up I'll miss your voice." She said while yawning another time. 4

My face probably looks like a tomato right now, this girl is driving me crazy. "I always miss your voice, " I said with a big smile on my face. 14

She giggled, "What's so special about my voice?" She mumbled. She must have her face buried in a pillow, her voice sounded muffled over the phone.

"Cause It's yours." I couldn't stop smiling waiting for her response.

"I think I need that kiss now, you're officially too sweet," She giggled again sounding adorable.

"You give the best kisses, so that works out well." I closed my eyes and leaned back in the drivers seat, getting more comfortable. 1

"Okay, now I really need that kiss, " we both laughed, I wasn't going to get any sleep but I didn't care, all I cared about was her.

We talked until I heard the other line fall silent, then I heard a cute soft snore, I swear my heart melted right then and there. I sat for a moment, In silence, a smile on my face. She made me so crazy but In a wonderful way. I thought of the story my dad told me, how when he was in love with my mom he referred to it as torture. It was right and wrong at the same time because It was torture to think about losing her, but at the same time I think I'm the happiest I've been in a long time, and I had her to thank for that. I closed my eyes again, enjoying the moment In silence. I fell asleep with my phone laying on my chest, lana on the other line. 

lana's POV

I rubbed my eyes, having just woken up, my alarm clock going off. I yawned and smacked the off button, not getting much sleep the night before didn't make it easy to get up at seven. I looked at my phone and blushed realizing that I was still on the phone with ash. I felt bad when I saw It was on speaker and he probably heard my alarm clock, turns out he did. 3

I heard a yawn on the other line, "Good morning, " he mumbled.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you up, " I said quietly feeling guilty.

"It's cool, I needed to be up anyway. Thanks for being my alarm clock, " ash said yawning again.

I swear I blushed every time I talked to him, "No problem, I'm here on Wednesdays and Thursdays, " I joked, blushing again at his cute laugh.

"Well, I have to take a shower, I'll talk to you later so we can get the trip planned out, my parents want details," I said while taking my hair out of a ponytail.

"I need to shower too, I've been in a car all night," ash replied.

"Why did you do that, your gonna be sore, take a hot bath it soothes muscles," I said concerned he was going to be in pain.

"I needed to get away from the gems, they can make things claustrophobic at times, " he sighed.

"Having a conversation with them will help, trust me, "

"Always, " he replied. "I'm gonna go take a hot shower, love you."

I got butterflies in my stomach as he said that, "Bye biscuit, love you too, " I said quietly so my parents wouldn't hear.

I ended the call reluctantly, I put my phone on my charger and walked to the bathroom to get in the shower. I shut and locked the bathroom door behind me. I took a cold shower to wake myself up, still exhausted from the night before. I got out of the shower, wrapping myself with a towel and walking back to my room to get dressed. I was drying off my hair, a smile stuck to my face, thinking about how I stayed on the phone with ash all night long. I threw on a T-shirt and jeans, walking downstairs.

I got a bowl of cereal and sat down at the table, reading a comic as I ate.

My mother walked into the kitchen setting her phone on the counter. "Do you have everything you need for the trip?" She questioned while filling a glass with water.

"Everything but a swimsuit, my old one doesn't fit anymore, " I said while eating a spoon full of cereal.

"We'll pick you up a new one today when I get home from work, " she said while finishing her toast and setting the plate in the sink. "I gotta run, I'll be home around eight, love you, sweetie." She kissed my forehead and grabbed her purse and keys.

"Love you too, " I said while she walked out of the kitchen and then out the front door.

I finished my cereal and put my bowl In the sink, I grabbed my phone and decided to text ash.

"Are you out of the shower?" I texted him, regretted sounding so clingy. Why did I say It like that, way to come off like a stalker. I sighed and then ash texted me back. I quickly tapped on the notification to read the message.

"Yeah, you were right, I feel a lot better, " he replied.

I smiled, he was so sweet. Then I had the Idea to Invite him over, both my parents were at work and we would be able to plan the trip In peace. I blushed at the thought of us kissing again, If we had to house to ourselves would we make-out again? I blushed more thinking about If we did more, I snapped out of my thoughts and responded to his message. 2

"I'm always right 😝, the reason I ask is because I was wondering If you wanted to come over, both my parents are at work so we could plan the trip, " I sent the message, my face was reddish for sure.

"That's perfect, I was just planning on calling you but that works better. 😁" ash replied.

"Perfect, see you soon," I responded jumping up to make sure the house was clean. I went upstairs and picked up some clothes that were on my floor and made my bed. I blushed at the thought of him being in my room again, I walked past the mirror and noticed my old T-shirt I was wearing and I quickly tried to find something else. I looked through my closet sighing, then I found a teal crop top I tried it on and It went to about two inches above where my jeans started, I liked how I looked In It surprisingly.

I smiled finally finding something I liked, I headed back downstairs and sat on the sofa. I read comics on my phone waiting for ash. I started feeling tired from staying up so late, my eyelids felt heavy and my head slowly fell forward jolting back up to the sound of the doorbell. I set my phone down and excitedly opened the door.

"Hey, biscui--" I blushed, suddenly Interrupted by ash pulled me In for a deep kiss. My eyes wide, surprised. He slowly broke the kiss, smiling. I'm sure I had a stunned expression on my face because he laughed a little. 1

"You said you needed a kiss last night, " he said with a cheeky smile stepping inside the doorway.

I cleared my throat still a little shocked and a small smile on my face. "I wasn't expecting it so soon, " I said while laughing a little. "Did you miss me that much?" I said with a smile on my face, sitting on the sofa, ash shortly following, shutting the front door behind him.

"You could say that, " he said while sitting next to me, grabbing hold of my hand. I tried not to fall into the temptation of kissing him and actually plan the trip because my parents were bugging me for details.

"My parents want details about the trip, like times, sleeping arrangements, etc, " I said while grabbing the notebook I had put on the coffee table.

"Well, I found out this morning that Bonnie, mellow, and lillie are all coming on the trip but thankfully they will all fit In my dad's van so we don't have to ride with them," ash said while Interlocking our fingers. 4

"It's gonna be an interesting trip, that's for sure, " I laughed a bit, "I'm just glad I'm riding with you, you make everything fun," I said smiling trying not to blush.

"You know my heart can't handle you being so sweet, " he kissed my forehead and grinned.

My face was probably noticeably red, I couldn't help but blush every time he touched me. I looked up at him with a stupid smile I couldn't get off my face. ash's face was a little red too when he saw my reaction. I didn't care anymore, I could figure out details later, I needed to kiss this boy. 8

ash's POV

I couldn't stop blushing when I was around her, and her reaction to me simply kissing her forehead, oh my gosh. She was too cute. My eyes widened when her face slowly got closer to mine, my gaze locked on her beautiful hazel eyes. I felt her warm soft exhale on my face, sending a shiver up my spine. I placed my hand on her cheek our lips were so close, almost touching. I exhaled and she must have had the same shiver up her spine because she pressed her lips against mine. The kiss was almost electric, her lips melting Into mine, like wax next to a flame. I took my hand from hers and moved it to her lower back. Tilting my head to deepen the kiss, I felt her lips curl upwards into a small smile. I started feeling butterflies in my stomach nervous and excited at the same time. 72

I didn't want to go too far without her permission though, so as we broke apart shortly for air I breathlessly said, "Do you want to stop?"

"No, " she said and took a breath, "wait, do you?" She asked and I shook my head.

"No, I was just making sure, " I said while pulling her closer by my hand on her cheek.

"You're sweet, " she whispered and kissed me again, this time more passionate.

Her lips melted to mine again, I couldn't help but blush at the way she kissed me like she wanted more. I lightly stroked the back of her shirt, touching skin because It was so short. Not going to lie, anytime she showed more skin I liked It, the thought of her in a bathing suit made me shiver. I moved my hand from her cheek to her hair, caressing the silky smooth strands. She tilted her head and inched closer to me. Then her teeth softly grazed my bottom lip, I lost it right then and there, she was driving me mad. I kissed her more passionately, my hand slightly moved under her shirt, now pressing flat on her back.

She shivered at my movement and I got worried, I quickly broke the kiss and removed my hand, "Did I do something wrong?" I asked quietly, concerned.

"You're fine, I'm just new to this, that's all." She said while looking down.

"I'm sorry, I'm moving too fast aren't I?" I said feeling like a jerk for pushing her.

"ash, you're fine, I've just never done anything like this before, " she said while blushing looking embarrassed.

I felt even worse for making her feel uncomfortable, "I haven't either, this is all new to me, " I said while leaning my forehead against hers.

"We'll figure it out together then, " she said and smiled, lifting her head from mine and lightly kissing me.

I kissed back, relieved she wasn't upset. She grabbed my hand and placed it on her back again, under her shirt, I blushed, surprised and kissed her more roughly. She wrapped her hands around my neck, smiling Into the kiss. I grinned into the kiss shortly after, moving from her lips to her jawline, leaving light kisses. I moved to her neck, lightly sucking at the spot she tensed at. I kept kissing that spot and she lightly tugged at my hair. She let out a soft whimper which made me shudder. I quickly trailed back up her neck to her lips. Her face was painted with blush, so was mine. I kissed her roughly again, never getting enough of her. lana kissed back more roughly like she was saying she wanted more as well, my arm tightened around her waist as she did so. 11

She moved down to my neck, leaving a trail of kisses giving me more butterflies In my stomach. She somehow always found that spot, the spot that made my heart race my eyelids heavy. I started breathing heavy the more she kissed It, she must have noticed because she giggled a little and lightly sucked at It. I shut my eyes tightly, It felt so good It almost hurt. She kept kissing my neck and I unintentionally let out a soft grunting noise. My eyes shot open and I blushed when I realized her looking at me wide-eyed. I tried not to make eye contact, a bit embarrassed.

"That wasn't, I mean I-" lana kissed me to shut me up.

"I knew you liked It when I kissed your neck, but I didn't know you like It that much, " she said with a smirk.

"Oh please, I heard you make noise too, " I said with a cheeky smile, kissing her again. 124

"Shut up, " she said while hitting my shoulder lightly. We both laughed a little. My goodness, could she be any more perfect? Even the embarrassing stuff I did didn't make things awkward between us. I always felt comfortable around her, even when I was nervous as all get out.

"We probably should write down the trip details, " I said reluctantly, not wanting to stop.

She sighed, "One more, " she mumbled and leaned up to kiss me, I blushed and returned the kiss.

We shared a sweet kiss, both smiling Into It. I slowly broke the kiss. My breath was probably shaky by the way she giggled slightly.

"Ugh, alright let's get this over with, " she said while picking up a pen and notebook.

"Okay, so we are going to leave at six-thirty In the morning If everything goes to plan. We'll be in my car and my dad and the gems will be In his van for the drive, " I explained details as she wrote them down. "There are three beds I believe which will be fine cause the gems don't sleep, except for amethyst. I'll text my dad asking for the address cause I don't remember off the top of my head, but it's called cool ranch." She wrote down the details. 2

"Thank you, my parents are still overprotective a lot of the time. It's way better than It was though." She explained while setting the notebook down. "By the way did you talk to the gems yet?" lana questioned.

"No, I'm planning on doing It tonight though, I'm going to suffocate If they let up soon, " I said and smiled, she was so curious about everything I did. It's adorable.

"I hope they do, that sounds stressful, " she said with concern in her voice.

"I do too, thanks for the advice, " I said and kissed her cheek, trying not to blush.

She smiled back at me and yawned. "Do you want to watch a movie? I got Dogcopter 4." lana asked while grabbing the remote.

"We've only watched it four times, " I said jokingly. 19

She got up from the sofa, "It's only been twice! Plus the plot Is so disgustingly garbage Is great to laugh at, " she said while popping the movie disk In the DVD player.

"Okay okay, you're not going to cry this time right?" I said and wrapped my arm around her when she sat back down on the sofa.

"That's funny because I remember you were the one crying." She said while smirking.

"He thought he was never gonna fly again! That's tear-jerking, " I explained and she started the movie.

"Okay fine, we both cried, " she teased, We both laughed.

"Deal, " I said while a smile as the opening credits ended and the movie began. She laid her head on my shoulder and started the watch the movie.

It was near the end of the movie and I was going to make a joke about the sad part but when I looked over lana was asleep. I tried not to move because I did not want to wake her. She looked too precious to wake. I slowly laid my head back leaning against the sofa. My eyelids felt heavy, I could barely keep them open to watch the movie. I felt so at peace In that moment, she made everything better. I'm more In love then I can put into words. I got another wave of lack of sleep, I closed my eyes. I slept next to her, while Dogcopter played In the background.

Narrator's POV

Mrs. Maheswaran walked up the steps and unlocked the front door. She walked Inside.

"I'm home, I got off work early today, " she was surprised to see the couple on the sofa asleep. She quickly hushed her voice but raised an eyebrow at ash's arm wrapped around lana's waist as they slept side by side. 5

Mrs. Mahsewaran cleared her throat, obviously trying to wake them up. ash caught wind of this as he woke from his unintentional nap. He rubbed his eye with his free hand, attempting to wake himself up further.

The boy noticed her stare, surprised he slowly removed his hand from lana's waist. "Uh, hi. Sorry, I did not mean to fall asleep." ash spoke his voice raspy from just waking up.

The sound of his voice caused lana to wake, her head lifting from ash's shoulder meeting the gaze of her mother. Her eyes become wide as her cheeks heated. lana scooted a few inches away from ash.

"Hey, mom, what are you doing home so early?" She laughed nervously.

"Someone offered to take my shift, you didn't tell me ash was coming over today, I would have vacuumed." The doctor walked into the kitchen. 2

The young couple both sighed in relief that she wasn't angry. ash pulled out his phone to check the time, It was noon.

"Oh shoot, I was meant to help my dad at the carwash today," ash said while scratching his neck. He was going to help his dad clean the van for the trip, but he was an hour late.

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have suggested the movie, " lana apologized, feeling guilty.

"It's my fault, my phone was on silent. I didn't set an alarm either, " he sighed. "I should probably call my dad, " ash said while standing up from the sofa.

lana got up as well, walking into the kitchen to join her mother who was putting dishes away. She had a troubled expression, worried Greg was going to be upset. How would ash even explain what happened to Greg she thought, 'oh sorry, I was sucking face and lost track of time'. She sighed while putting cups In the upper cabinet. 23

ash dialed his father, going to apologize for being late.

          ~          ~          ~          ~

After the call, ash walked into the kitchen, sliding his phone back into his pocket. lana was standing on the other side of the counter just finishing putting the last few dishes away. Priyanka's phone rang so she sat at the dining room table to take the call.

"Turns out my dad forgot as well, so everything worked out, " ash assured. "I'm going to head over to the car wash, I'll pick you up tomorrow morning for the trip, " ash leaned over the counter and kissed the girl on the cheek. 2

He didn't want to show too much affection, given lana's mother was sitting at the table, within view of them. The blush on his face grew as she smiled back at him.

"That's a relief, I was worried I ruined time with your dad," lana confessed.

"You never ruin anything, you're perfect, " he smiled and stopped leaning on the counter. ash walked around the counter and stood facing her.

lana's face became redder than earlier, ashs words made her heart skip a beat. "I'm far from perfect, " lana adjusted her hair, trying to control her nerves.

"That's just not true, your completely and utterly perfect to me," ash assured while pulling her In for a goodbye hug.

"Stop being so sweet, " lana giggled while returning the hug.

"You can't make me!" ash said while laughing and playfully lifting the girl during the hug.

He spun her around as they laughed hysterically. A bright light appeared between them and before they knew It they were fused. The tall fusion continued to laugh until the sudden realization set In. Stevonnie blushed, this Is the first time ash and lana had fused since their relationship started. Their eyes shot to lana's mother Priyanka who had a shocked expression. They blushed even more and suddenly unfused. 12

"Argh, " lana grunted as she hit the kitchen floor, falling from the separation. ash helped her up, worried she was hurt.

Before ash could ask If lana was okay, the doctor spoke. "I'm going to call you back, " she explained and hung up the phone standing up from her chair.

"Are you two alright?" Priyanka rushed to her daughter, ash had an arm around lana's waist, making sure she was stable.

"I'm fine, really," lana assured and ash removed his arm. "I just fell wrong, " she stated, still blushing. Tension lessened when they realized lana wasn't hurt.

"I'm sorry, " ash apologized to lana with a worried expression.

"Don't apologize, it's half my fault we fused, " lana laughed trying to lighten the mood.

"Is that healthy? The whole 'fusion' thing?" Priyanka asked the two. She had a vague idea of what fusion was but didn't understand the physical side of It.

"I thought I already explained It, " lana sighed.

"It's really complicated, but it's definitely not damaging," ash added. He bent over and kissed lana on the forehead. " I'm sorry to leave so sudden but I have to go before my dad gets worried. love you," ash said while smiling.

lana got major butterflies In her stomach as ash said that. lana stood on her tippy toes, balancing herself with her hands on his shoulders. She kissed his cheek, blushing In the process. "Love you too," lana said, removing her hands from ash. They both smiled at each other, while Priyanka watched, smiling as well.

ash walked out of the kitchen and to the front door. He opened the door, but before walking out waved goodbye to lana, a grin on his face. lana waved back and he shut the door behind him. lana sighed, not upset but a content sigh. lana smiled as her mother hugged her tightly.

"My little girl Is In love, your growing up too fast!" Priyanka exclaimed. lana hugged back, glad her mother wasn't upset. 3

"You're not upset?" lana questioned, surprised. 2

"I'm proud of you for facing your feelings, I do think you are a little young for love but we trust you. Nonetheless, don't do anything stupid like getting pregnant, " she explained while releasing her daughter from the suffocating hug. 150

lana's eyes widened, "Mom!" She exclaimed. Blush grew on lana's face shortly after her mother's words.

"I know you don't want to talk about sex with your mom but I do have knowledge." lana had a slight look of disgust as her mother said that. She continued, "wait until your ready, don't let anyone pressure you. And please for the Petes sake use protection." 20

lana's face was completely red, "Can we not have this conversation right now?" She pleaded while avoiding eye contact.

"Alright fine. What time did you want to go shopping for that swimsuit?" lana's mother questioned while grabbing her phone from the dining room table.

"Let's just leave now, we'll avoid rush hour, " lana said while walking to the living room to grab her shoes.

"Sounds good, " Priyanka slid her phone into her pocket and grabbed her purse that was on the counter.

ash's POV

Lion slid crossed the slick concrete as he landed In front of the carwash after just warping, I held tightly onto his mane as he did so. I quickly hopped off pattings lions head. I walked over to where my dad was standing hosing down his van. 4

"Hey, dad." I walked over and picked up a sponge that was In the soap bucket.

"Hey, Stew-Ball!" He exclaimed with a smile. He stepped closer to me and ruffled my hair. I laughed at his actions while beginning to scrub the van with the soap smothered sponge.

He set the hose down and picked up a sponge as well, doing the same. We cleaned the car In silence for a few moments.

My dad soon broke the silence. "How are things going with lana?"

"Good, " I smiled while adding more soap. "She's amazing, " I added and tried not to blush just thinking about her.

"Did you kiss her yet?" He asked while nudging my arm with his elbow. "Eh, eh?" He joked.

I laughed awkwardly at how cringey he was being. "Yeah, " I said slowly.

"And?" He questioned.

"It was good, " I said, embarrassed to give details.

"I'm glad your first kiss wasn't awful like mine." He placed the sponge In the bucket and picked up the hose, beginning to spray the vehicle.

I looked at him curiously, never hearing the story before. "Storytime?" I smiled, remembering the great memories of my father telling me stories.

"It's pretty anticlimactic, It was homecoming. I went to the dance with some friends and I built up the courage to ask a girl to dance." He said while washing off the soap on the windshield.

"And?" I questioned while putting the sponge I was using back in the bucket. I grabbed a bucket of clean water and splashing over the side of the van, washing away an area of suds.

He sighed while recalling the story, "It was a slow dance and everything, super cheesy stuff. I leaned In for a kiss as the song was ending and she returned It. But she had her mouth completely open? It was like she was trying to give me CPR!" We both laughed. "I pity the men she kisses. " He added and continued to spray the now clean van.

"I had my mouth closed at least, " I laughed again, I set down the bucket, wiping my hands on my shirt to dry them. 9

"It's refreshing to see you so happy, I know everything has calmed down but it's still emotionally heavy nonetheless." He smiled while setting the hose down. He then walked over to the nozzle and turned It off.

"Yeah, " I agreed. "It's nice to have a distraction for the time being, " I sighed.

What my dad said got me thinking, I never even considered how I felt about everything I was so worried about helping everyone I never picked myself back up. I stood In thought for a moment trying to determine how I felt about the diamond situation, Is the entire reason I'm alive to make a point?

I suddenly felt an anger burning Inside me, that I had suppressed for so long about my mother and the confusing emotions I felt. I didn't know how I felt how I should accept everything, or even If I should accept It. So many people depended on me, and now that I know I'm part diamond there was even more pressure. Is my existence simply a scapegoat?

I was interrupted by my father walking back to the van with a towel. He began wiping down the windshield. While he was looking the other way I blinked away the tears trying to form In my eyes. I don't want to let anyone know I was feeling this way. I can't bring him down after everything he's been through. 8

"Are you alright? You look kinda down, " he asked while extending out his arm to put a hand on my shoulder.

"Y-yeah, I'm fine, " I said softly not even sure If I was or not. I need to be alone, I need to think for a moment. I tried to quickly find an excuse to get away.

"Pearl wanted to help me pack for the trip, can I go?" I asked putting on a fake smile, while I felt like my heart dropped to my stomach. I didn't lie very often, even though it's normal for teenagers to lie It hurt to think about being dishonest and losing everyone's trust. I just needed to be alone. 2

"Yeah, you can go, thanks for helping your old man." He smiled and ruffled my hair once more. I had a small smile trying my best to look happy. I felt a lump in my throat, my eyes felt tired from holding back the tears that wanted to escape.

I haven't cried in a while, I had matured over the years. Mature or not right now I felt like I wanted to form my bubble and curl up in a ball. I was about to turn around to find lion but my dad stopped me. 1

"I know I don't know about space stuff but If you want to talk about anything I'm always here, Stew-Ball." He assured I felt contorted and conflicted at the same time. 1

I knew I never want to put my load of confusing and have emotions on him but at the same time, I knew he loved me and wanted to help me through anything. I love my dad too much to weigh him down with my emotional bullshit, I need to figure this out on my own. I don't want to be weak, everyone wants me to be strong I can't show vulnerability. 18

"Thanks, really I'm fine." My voice was shaky, I know I didn't fool him. I'm a terrible liar especially when I'm emotional.

I needed to get to Lion before my eyes got more teary. I quickly turned around and spotted Lion napping on top of a parked car crossed the street. I ran over to him and shouted his name to wake him up. Lion never responds so quickly but he did this time, maybe he could sense my emotional state. When he jumped down he set off the car alarm I immediately jumped on his back and he started to run from the loud alarm, being startled.

"Lion, take me to the temple, " I said quickly not wanted to get in trouble because of Lion. He leaped forward and roared summoning the portal and went through It.

Lion landed on the sand In front of my house, I hopped off him and hugged his back. I wasn't able to hug his mane because I would go through It. Walking up the wooden steps onto the patio I held back the tears, trying my best not to have an emotional breakdown on my porch. I pushed open the screen door and saw Pearl kneeling In front of the open fridge, cleaning It. Giving the spoiled food to amethyst was sitting on the counter eating It.

"ash, " I jumped at dawn's voice right beside me. She was sitting on the third step or so leading to my room.

"What?" I asked with my voice shaking, worried she would know how I was feeling.

"Tell me what Is wrong, " she questioned with a worried look on her face. My suspicions were correct she could see how upset I was with her future vision. I quickly blinked away more tears, trying to stay composed. 2

Finally, the tears fell from my eyes, exhausted from holding back my emotions for a short amount of time, yet It felt like years. Pearl and Amethyst caught wind of my distress as I started to sniffle, trying to stop my runny nose. They moved towards me, trying to figure out what was wrong.

"I can't, " I responded to dawn, quickly wiping away my tears just as more began to fall. I felt suffocated being surrounded by all of the gems as they waited for my answer, I didn't even have an answer for myself how was I supposed to explain how I felt.

Sniffling more I blurted out, "I just need a minute!" I practically shouted. As I uttered those words I heard a familiar sound, and my gem glowed. I looked up with blurry vision to see the rose-colored door to open In a spiral pattern with the design of petals. I couldn't explain to the gems until I figured things out for myself, I needed to be alone and sort things out. Desperate to escape I pushed Amethyst's hand off my shoulder as I rushed forward towards the room.

"ash, wait!" Pearl shouted, I couldn't do anything I felt so helpless I just needed to sort things out. I rushed into the room, dismissing Pearl's plea. The door shut behind me and I leaned backwards against it, sliding down the surface Into a sit.

I didn't know what else to do but cry, I felt awful.

ash's POV

I sighed, wiping the tears off my face. My forehead laying on my knees while sobbing. I felt so confused, conflicted and scared, scared that If anyone knew how I was feeling that they would think differently of me. How would lana react If she found out I'm debating on whether or not I love my own mother. 1

I clenched my fist more tears streaming down my face, I'm a horrible person. What kind of person has to even debate this? 1

"It's so hard to love someone I've never met, " I sobbed out.

I know that she lied about being Pink Diamond to save the Earth, I know she loved the gems and wanted to protect them. And I know she loved my dad, so why do I feel this way? She loved me, so why does It feel so difficult to do the same? I wiped my runny nose with a tissue box that appeared beside me. Maybe If I just say I love her, I'll feel It. If I can convince the gems I'm fine, I'll be able to convince myself.

I dried my eyes and blew my nose, standing up from leaning against the door.

"I want a mirror, " I said to the room going to check If my eyes were puffy from crying. A mirror appeared In front of me, I looked at my red puffy face and sighed.

Before I could wipe my face again trying to cover the fact I was crying a sink appeared In front of me.

"Thanks, " I said towards the endless pink sky. I splashed my face with cold water and dried myself with a hand towel. I looked back up the mirror glad to see the evidence of my sobbing was washing away, I tried my best to keep a neutral face It was hard not to frown. Taking a deep breath, controlling my breathing to make sure I was calm.

Fake It till you make it, you're supposed to love everyone around you. Grow the hell up. I sighed I needed to be more mature, I'm better than this. Prove to everyone you're fine, and It'll be true, I thought to myself. I need to be strong, everyone is depending on me. 5

I turned around and stepped closer to the door, as It opened I stepped out with my hands to my sides, fidgeting with the corner of my pink jacket. I tried to stay composed. When I looked up at the living room I was surprised to not see the gems. I walked passed the warp pad onto the hardwood floor.

I heard muffled voices from on the patio, It sounded like arguing. I came closer to the Patio door then Pearl pushed open the patio door and came Inside.

"ash!" She exclaimed while running up to me.

I felt weird not telling them how I was feeling, that's what I always did. Even though I was older now I was still open about my emotions, so this felt very strange.

Pearl hugged me, the gems walked shortly after they heard Pearl. I returned the hug wrapping my arms around her, melting into the embrace. She never failed to make me feel comfortable, she was the closest thing I had to a mother. Again the emotions Inside me of just thinking about Rose caused me to have mixed feelings. It was a mixture of sadness, anger, and love. 4

After being lost In thought for a moment Pearl released me from the hug. All the gems we're staring, probably wondering If I was okay. I mean, I did just kind of have a mental breakdown In the living room, so I see their reasoning. I cleared my throat, waiting for them to ask me.

dawn walked over to the sofa and gestured me to sit down. I stepped around the coffee table and took a seat. Pearl and Amethyst shortly following while dawn sat with her legs crossed on the table.

dawn was silent for a moment, then spoke slowly, "Did something happen with lana?" She questioned with slight concern In her voice.

I was relieved they didn't know what was really going on, surely I look like a horrible person for debating whether or not I live my own mother. On the other hand, I didn't want them to think lana and I were fighting. 3

"Everything with lana Is fine, it's not that," I said quickly assuring them that wasn't the issue.

"Then what is the issue, ash? Is It Amethyst? I told her to be more sensitive with your relationship with lana!" Pearl exclaimed.

"Wha? Nuh-uh, this wasn't all from me!" she argued while getting more animated with her body language. 2

"Stop arguing, " I sighed, not wanting to listen to them fight again. "It's not that either, " I said while rubbing the back of my neck.

"Then what is?" dawn questioned.

My face began to heat up, I couldn't tell them the real reason, I can't do that to them. "U-uh, " I panicked trying to think quickly of an excuse for being emotional.

"Human issues, " I said, immediately regretting my choice. 2

Now Pearl is going to be telling me about puberty like she did when I went through It. She would burst into my room before I had a door, thankfully I do now. She would talk about human anatomy without hesitation because It wasn't awkward to her. Then she would lecture me about using protection yet I'm still a virgin. 27

I probably didn't convince them totally that It was really just hormones but I tried. Sighing I looked up at the gems, Amethyst was smirking, she thought human puberty was hilarious especially when It happened to me and she would crack jokes every two minutes. dawn has a blank yet calm expression, as always. Pearl just looked a bit confused.

"Should I call Greg?" Pearl asked while pulling a briefcase out of her gemstone, opening It and grabbing her phone that was Inside. 5

"No, it's fine. It's uh, normal. Yeah, perfectly normal, " I said trying my best to sound like I wasn't lying.

I cringed at how awkward I sounded, at least the gems weren't human, they would believe this stuff. Then an Idea accrued, I could use this as a way to tell them I need space. They were suffocating lately, I needed them to understand boundaries.

"I needed to talk to you guys about something, " I said and cleared my throat. To my surprise everyone was listening, no jokes or comments. "I need space, Pearl that means no more watching me sleep. Amethyst that means fewer jokes about lana and me, especially in front of lana It makes her uncomfortable. dawn please stop using future vision to spy on me, it's getting invasive, " I took a deep breath In, saying that long like all at once.

Pearl blushed light blue, "Well I'm sorry I don't want you to die from that feline sleeping on your face." She said.

"If I stop breathing I'll wake up, " I assured her and laughed a bit thinking how cute Lion was.

"I thought the jokes were funny, " Amethyst said punching my shoulder.

"Yeah alright, 'They gonna bone' Is truly comedy gold Amethyst." I smiled and laughed a bit more. It felt nice to joke around with her again, we haven't done that In a while. 3

dawn stayed silent, with a nod of agreement. I grinned at how she was always so calm. 5

I sighed, relieved that I got that off my chest. "Alright, I'm gonna pack for the trip, " I said while standing up from the sofa. "Sorry for worrying everyone, " I rubbed the back of my neck.

"I was about to break down the door dude, " Amethyst said while standing up too. She had to look up at me since I'd gotten taller, she shapeshifted her arm to stretch longer and ruffled my hair. I laughed at her action and pushed her hand away.

I chuckled more at Pearl's face, she disapproved of shapeshifting for fun. "Alright, " I said while trying to stop laughing. I walked around the coffee table to my bedroom steps. I walked up while dawn did a salute thing with two fingers, followed by a smile. I was confused where she learned that but returned the odd gesture, with a smile on my face as well. I continued up the steps and shut my door behind me. 3

ash's POV

My eyes shot open as I heard pounding at my door. I quickly got up walking over to the door.

"ash, are you ready to hit the road?" I heard a familiar voice question, slightly muffed through the door.

As I went to open the door I noticed It was locked, I must have fallen asleep forgetting to unlock It. I quickly undid the lock and opened the door greeted by Bonnie. By the position of her arm, It looked like she was about to pound on the door once more, but stopped realizing I opened It.

"You've nailed the police knock, " I said while rubbing my eyes, still half asleep.

"Hey Stew-ball, we got thirty-minutes before we leave!" My dad exclaimed from the bottom of the steps.

I followed Bonnie In walking down the steps into the living room. All the gems we're scattered about, mellow and lillie gushing over a Camp Pining Hearts poster hung on the wall. Pearl was In the kitchen making snacks for the road and Amethyst was trying to eat them. My dad and dawn were looking at a map of the highway. Bonnie plopped down on the sofa, bouncing both my Dad and dawn that we're on the other half of the sofa, laughter shortly following. 1

"ash, " Amethyst announced.

"Hm?" I hummed In response, still sleepy. A yawn following shortly after.

"You forgot a shirt dude, " Amethyst said and snickered. 27

My eyes widened realizing I was only wearing sweatpants and socks. "Oh, sorry, " I apologized and blushed, embarrassed.

I turned around and walked back upstairs to change, closing the door behind me. I walked over to my closet grabbing my pink jacket, throwing it onto my bed. Then walking to my dresser and pulling out a T-shirt, putting It on. I decided on my comfortable jeans since I'd be driving for a while today.

I grabbed my jacket and my bag that was packed for the trip and headed downstairs, putting my bag next to the front door. I stepped over Lion while he was asleep on the floor. I walked into the kitchen, grabbing a mug out of the cabinet a poured a cup of coffee. I added creamer and walked to where Pearl was. I leaned on the counter taking a sip of my coffee looking at the sandwiches Pearl was putting together.

"Do you need any help?" I asked Pearl while setting down my cup.

"Certainly, I can show you how to cut tomatoes properly, " she said in an excited tone. 1

I smiled and picked up the cutting knife. Pearl diced the tomatoes Into thin slices then cut an x shape making them Into triangles. I started doing the same and she spread mayo on the bread.

"Since when did you start drinking coffee?" My dad asked from the sofa.

"Since I started becoming sleep-deprived, " I responded and laughed a bit, continuing to slice the tomatoes. 1

"You're growing up too fast, what happened to orange juice?" My dad replied with a smile.

"Is that the sugary substance with color enhancers?" lillie chimed in. 2

"Yeah, " I said with a chuckle at how lillie made everything Into a science term. "I still drink it, but I kinda like coffee now, " I smiled at my dad then went back to slicing tomatoes. 7

"You still fill half the cup with creamer, " dawn said looking up from the map while grinning.

I finished with the tomatoes and went on to break apart some lettuce. Pearl started putting the ingredients on the bread while Amethyst stretched out her arm and gave lillie a nuggie from crossed the room, squishing her pointy hair flat. lillie barked out her usual lillie sounds. 14

I laughed at lillie's reaction and picked up my coffee mug, taking a sip.

My dad's watch went off, "We got ten minutes before we hit the road, hurry It up, people!" He smiled while standing up from the sofa. He walked over to the bags by the front door, picking one up then scoffing at how heavy It was.

"What did you put In this thing, Pearl?" He exclaimed while attempting to move the heavy duffle bag.

"Medical supplies, " Pearl said while putting the finished sandwiches Into ziplock bags and adding chaps alongside the sandwiches. She zipped the bags and I helped her put them in the cooler.

"We could start a hospital with all this stuff, " my dad laughed, then attempted to move the at least 70-pound bag again.

"Let me help, " Bonnie stood up and walked over to the bag, picking it up with one hand with no problem.

"Heh, thanks, " my dad thanked her rubbing the back of his neck. He opened the screen door while picking up his own bag and walked out onto the porch.

I yawned still a little tired, finishing the cup of coffee and stepping to the sink. I placed the mug Inside of the sink turning on the water the back off again.

"Why was your door locked this morning?" Amethyst asked while tossing an apple up and catching it repeatedly.

I blushed remembering why I locked it, "Uh, no reason." I quickly tried to change the subject, "Everyone ready for a ROAD TRIP?" I shouted In a fake peppy voice. 19

"ash, I'm right here no need to shout, " Pearl said while closing the cooler with the food In It.

"Whooo, " mellow said In a monotone voice while walking towards the patio door.

"I'm ready, Freddy!" lillie shouted following shortly behind mellow. 4

"Who is Freddy?" mellow questioned while holding the door for lillie then they both walked out. 9

I picked up the Cooler from the counter so Pearl didn't have to carry it. I walked towards the front door grabbing my bag as well. Pearl, Amethyst and I walked out onto the patio and down the wooden steps. I set down the cooler on the sand beside my Dad's van and put my bag In the trunk on my car. While walking over to my dad to look at the map the sun was just starting to rise above the ocean.

"What time Is It?" I asked my dad while yawning again.

He looked at his watch, "Six fifteen, " he stated and showed me the route we'd take to the cabin. I took a picture of the map and walked back over to my car. We were about to leave and I realized Lion never came outside. I quickly went up the wooden steps onto the patio calling his name.

"Lion, we gotta take off. Come on bud, " I pushed open the screen door and patted his head to wake him up. He wouldn't get up so I shook his shoulder, still nothing.

"You'll see lana, " I said trying to convince him. After hearing lana's name he immediately got up and walked onto the patio.

I rolled my eyes and laughed. I closed the door behind me and jumped over the railing floating down onto the sand. I ran over to my car opening the backseat for Lion. He got Inside reluctantly, constantly yawning. I got In the driver's seat as all the gems piled Into my Dad's van. He gave me a thumbs-up through the window signaling we were ready to go, I gave him a thumbs-up back. Before I started the car I pulled out my phone to quickly text lana I was coming to pick her up.

"Hey, we are heading over now, be there in like twenty minutes." I messaged her.