Chapter Six

Early Thanksgiving morning Ally awoke to bright sunshine and her mom shaking her awake.

"Time to get started on food preparation," she murmured as she kissed Ally's cheek. Ally smiled as she got out of bed then yawned and stretched. 

"Okay, mom," she replied sleepily before going to her closet and choosing clothes she didn't care so much about getting messy in. 

Usually every Thanksgiving her outfit turned into a floury, foodified mess. This time she was going to be smarter and wear some cozy socks for comfort, a pair of old, gray sweatpants, and a plain, boring t-shirt. 

After Ally had finished changing she joined her mom in the kitchen, smiling to herself as she realized this was one of the only days out of the year where her mother didn't nag her so much or treat her like a child. It was one of the few days Ally could enjoy time with her mother. They both were able to bond and just talk about stuff.

"Have you started on the turkey yet?" Ally asked curiously.

"The defrosting has begun. Right now you should start stirring the pot of soup I have going. I need the potatoes in there to be soft before you put the other vegetables in. So after a bit of stirring start chopping the carrots and celery I have put aside."

"Yes, mom," Ally replied simply.

After several more moments of nothing but kitchen sounds, Ally's mother started up the conversation.

"So how was school this week?" she asked cheerfully.

"Exhausting," Ally admitted. "Frank and Aidan still seem at odds with each other but yesterday Frank got into a nasty fight that somehow brought them closer together. Just a heads up for you later tonight when you see his battered face. I'm sure Evelyn gave him crap about it already."

"Another fight?" her mother asked in horror. "What was it about this time?"

"Well, Carson and his friends were running their mouths again. I may have been a contributing factor but in my defense I had no idea until after the fight or I would have stopped it."

"That boy got into a fight over you again?" she asked in shock. "How did Aidan take it?"

"He seemed mad at first, skeptical, but then they talked and it was fine. Neither seems to like Carson. Anyway, I'm just glad Frank's speaking to me like he used to. My dating Aidan hasn't exactly brought us closer together."

Angela nodded like she understood and said, "It's probably not easy for him to lose his best friend." 

"I'm still his best friend," Ally insisted. "We're just more distant now."

"Well, guy friends are different than girl friends. With girls you can spend days or even weeks without talking about anything important and still know you're on good terms. Call it intuition if you'd like. With guys, even though they seem more laid back, they need constant reassurance. That may be how Frank is feeling. He understands there's another person in your life and he's used to being the only guy outside your family that's in your life. Now that's changing and he's reacting. His role has shifted a bit and he's still adjusting," Angela explained in her motherly sort of way. "Trust me, it will get easier."

Ally squint her face and sat down to begin chopping vegetables. "How can you be so sure? I still feel like I've done something wrong. Frank's always been there for me and now it's like I can't be there for him. And there's something else going on with him." Ally paused and sighed in anguish. "Kids at school speculate that he likes me. But even so I can't ruin our friendship. I don't even know if I like him that way. I don't want to read too much into it. I'm hoping they're wrong but apparently I'm ignorant of the situation. The position I'm in sucks."

After a few moments of pondering, Angela said, "How does Aidan feel about Frank? Obviously Frank isn't too comfortable around Aidan but how does Aidan act toward Frank?"

Ally shrugged. "He's nice to him, polite. Before we started dating Aidan tried to be friendly to Frank, talk to him. Frank didn't seem on board, still doesn't. I don't want to have to choose between one or the other. I feel like I can have both in my life. Lots of girls have guy friends and a boyfriend and manage just fine. Why can't I make it work?"

Angela then gave her daughter a warm smile. "Sweetheart, you've never been a normal girl. As a child I could never get you to wear a dress even once. Your father had to bargain with you. Frank has been in your life for years. He's earned his place in your life, but Aidan is a good kid from what I've seen. I think you should be careful, but I also think he deserves a chance, the same chance you gave Frank years ago. It's not always going to be easy but I think you can manage having them both around just fine." 

Ally soaked in all of what her mother said, hoping she was right.

"So anyway," Angela changed her tone and Ally knew instantly there was going to be a slight topic change. "How's Aidan? Are you two doing okay apart from school drama?"

Ally smiled. "We're perfect. He's so sweet and attentive. I don't know. Being around him makes me feel warm and bubbly inside. I can't explain it better than that." 

"You're falling in love. It's a common way to feel when you've met someone amazing," her mother stated matter-of-factly. As her words sunk in though, Ally wasn't sure how to feel. She didn't feel like she was quite in love with Aidan or even close to loving him that way. Love was a huge deal to her; she didn't throw the phrase around so often like some of other girls at her school. They meant something more to her.

Suddenly, like a spark of lightning, she began thinking of Frank. Aside from her immediate family �" basically her parents �" she hadn't said 'I love you' to anyone but Frank. And it was because she did love him. The way he smiled, the way he listened to her, the way he was protective of her, the way he held her in his arms, the way he treated her, the way he made her feel special, and most importantly, the way he loved her back. 

And just like that she was shaking herself and all thoughts of Frank away. She couldn't think like that. She had Aidan and he was wonderful... But Frank is wonderful too.

Ally soon became wracked with guilt and tried to focus on other stuff to do. For the duration of her time in the kitchen with her mother she would not think of Frankie or what they meant to each other. They were friends and if she could just get through the entire night without letting her feelings get the best of her, she knew she'd be alright.

...

As Evelyn and Frank drove up to the Averson residence, Frank couldn't help but sweat and feel nervous. He hadn't been to Ally's house in so long and now he was about to spend an entire night with Ally. He knew they wouldn't be alone until later on in the night but just knowing they'd be alone later was getting to him. 

His mom had been strict with him since yesterday afternoon. She wasn't happy about getting a call from the principal nor was she happy about Frank getting into another fight. Evelyn had made it clear he was on notice and going to have a weekend of no fun and strict punishment. But for tonight he was home free and allowed to enjoy his time with the Aversons. Just thinking of Ally made his heart pound.

Getting ready for tonight had taken him longer than usual. He had barely gotten dressed in time and was pleasantly satisfied with his appearance. He knew Ally noticed him in whatever he wore but getting to know her over the years, he had a suspicion she would be noticing him a whole lot more tonight.

...

As Frank and his mother walked up to the Aversons front door he checked himself to make sure he looked as calm and serene as possible. Within moments, Richard opened the front door and greeted each of them warmly.

"Evie, Frankie boy, you made it." He gave them a warm smile and hugged them both before allowing them inside. "Come on in!"

Frank had a lot of respect for Richard Averson, more than any other man he knew. Mainly because he knew him personally and respected him for being a strong, supportive figure in Ally's life. He took care of his wife and child and put them before everything else. That's what made him an honorable man and Frank often found himself wishing he could have had a father like Richard. The man sure did treat him like family.

"The girls wouldn't let me near the kitchen all day. My wife's got my daughter learning the trade already. Pretty soon she'll be able to make her own family dinners and know every family recipe," he stated proudly. "Angie's still in the kitchen if you'd like to see her, Eve. Frank, you and I should head to the living room to catch the last of the game. Ally should be out soon. She just went to get ready a short while ago."

"Sounds good, sir," Frank responded with a wide smile.

After ten minutes of watching football in the background, Richard finally asked Frank a question. "So what do you think of this Aidan guy? I'm not sure what to make of him yet, though Angie insists he's a good kid."

Frank was biting the inside of his cheek, considering lying or even saying something unappealing. But he couldn't. Richard trusted Frank's judgment and so far Aidan hadn't proved himself a typical jock. He wasn't inconsiderate or even a d********g. He treated Ally great which made Frank respect him more but also made him want to loathe the guy more. 

Franke sighed and chose to tell the truth, mainly because he owed it to Ally. "He's actually an okay guy. I haven't seen him stepping out of line yet, but if I do you'll be the first to know."

"Good man. I still don't know what to make of him but thanks for your input."

"Not a problem."

The conversation dropped there and two minutes later, Ally entered the room.

...

Ally's nerves were beyond frazzled. After her shower she couldn't decide what the hell to wear. Nothing seemed elegant enough. She didn't want to dress casual. As per usual she had to dress nicely for Thanksgiving. So she groaned and slipped on one of the dresses her mom had picked out for her.

It was a little short, past the knee. It was shimmery black in color with a figure flattering tightness. It had thin straps and revealed an enticing amount of cleavage. She wondered how her mom had even picked it out. The dress was extravagant even for her. She then curled her hair, painted her nails, and applied a small amount of makeup. She had been in the process of choosing accessories when the doorbell rang.

She knew Frank and Evelyn had arrived and once more she felt her lungs cave in and her breathing feel harsher. Just relax, she chanted over and over in her head.

Eventually she was able to calm down enough to pick out and put on jewelry and then put on a matching pair of heels before leaving her bedroom.

Her first stop was the kitchen and the moment she entered the room her mother began gushing about how beautiful she looked. Evelyn greeted her warmly and enwrapped her in a hug as she lavished about her appearance as well.

"If Aidan could see you now, he'd die," her mother stated. 

"I think Frank just might pass out," Evelyn commented.

"Um, are they in the living room?" Ally asked softly.

"Where else?" Angela quipped.

"Good to see you, Ally," Evelyn replied with a wide smile.

"You too," Ally retorted before wandering into the living room where Frank and her dad were. Of course she had millions of butterflies flapping in her stomach and of course when she locked gazes with Frank the moment she entered the room, she felt her knees grow ten times weaker. It's a wonder she didn't fall.

He stood up the moment she entered the room and as their eyes locked she felt heat rise to her cheeks. Frank had not only chosen to wear a tux tonight, but he chose to clean up nicely. His hair was combed out to its natural length and looked to still be freshly wet from a shower. A smile touched his eyes. His red tie was neat and vibrant and drew attention away from his face and to his white button-up shirt and sharp, black jacket. He looked like he was an ad for something wonderful and appealing to all women, and in some cases, men.

She stopped her thoughts there and bit down on her lower lip, hoping she'd be able to talk after her incessant mind rambling.

...

As Frank gazed at Ally his jaw nearly hit the floor. She looked gorgeous. Her hair was elaborate and perfect, her makeup highlighted her face in the best way possible, and her dress was short, enticing, and way too revealing. His eyes travelled the length of her and stopped on her face, remembering her dad was still in the room. Thankfully, Ally had entered quietly and he hadn't noticed her yet because of the game. 

The moment Frank saw a light blush of red coming to Ally's cheeks and saw her bite her luscious lower lip he swallowed and knew he was in a pile of s**t tonight. Not only because he was overly aware of her, but because her parents were here along with his own and she belonged to someone else. 

He finally managed to clear his throat and alert Richard of her presence and when he looked at her he smiled and said, "So I see your mom didn't kill you with her numerous Thanksgiving tasks. How you holding up, kiddo? You were both up before the sun."

"Don't know," Ally admitted and she walked to the couch and took a seat next to Frank. "Guess I'm used to it." Ally shrugged and looked at the TV.

"Is that a new dress?" Richard asked suddenly.

Ally nodded but didn't turn to face him or meet his gaze. "Mom got it for me. Told me Aidan would die if he saw me in it."

"Don't think he'll ever see you in it if I have anything to say about it," Richard retorted firmly. "Shows too much."

"No more than my usual outfits do. Not really." 

At that Ally's dad's face paled and he shook his head. "No wonder guys get into fights over you. They can't help themselves."

At that Ally's face heated up and she turned to glare at Frank. 

"Your momma told me while you were in the shower," he replied simply. "That's why I didn't need to hear it from Frank." 

Ally sighed and murmured, "What else is new?" before getting up and leaving the room. Frank wasn't sure why Ally was in a sour mood but he didn't like it.

"Don't mind her." Richard nodded to me. "She'll likely be upset the whole night, regardless."

"Boys, time for dinner!" Mrs. Averson called. 

"We're coming!" Mr. Averson called. "We'd better get in there."

Frank nodded and even though he wanted to know why Ally was in a bad mood, he knew the window on the subject was now closed.

...

At dinner the five of them enjoyed a nice meal and carried on friendly conversation. Ally smiled and kept her attitude in check but she wasn't in the mood for being too chatty and kept her parts in the conversation light. 

After an hour in her cell phone rang and she smiled as she glanced at who it was from under the table. 

Her dad gave her a sharp look but her mother smiled knowingly.

"Can I take it, dad?" she asked eagerly. "Please. I'm finished with my food."

"We're still having discussion time. This holiday is still about family and friends."

"But Aidan's more than just my friend, please," Ally begged, with sparks of hopeful light shining in her eyes.

"Oh, Richard, have a heart. Let the girl talk to him. You already know she'll be here all night. There's no use in keeping them from wishing each other a nice holiday," Angela stated with a smile.

Finally, Richard sighed and said, "Alright. You're excused, but don't be long."

"I won't," Ally replied with a wide smile as she placed her dishes in the sink and hurried to her room.

As soon as the door was closed Evelyn mused, "So that's the boyfriend."

"Yep," Angie agreed. "Nice boy, very charming and handsome."

Frank couldn't help but feel glum on the inside as his mom and Mrs. Averson continued talking while he stared in the direction Ally had gone.

"Don't mind her, Frank," Richard advised him in a whisper. "The reason she's upset has nothing to do with you. She's mad at me for making her stay here. Aidan's family invited her over but I wanted her here, figured you would too. Just looking out for you."

Frank nodded and murmured a soft, "Thank you." So that was why she was in a bad mood? She wanted to be with Aidan and his family instead of him and her own family?

He felt crushed and also a little upset with himself. He felt like a fool for overreacting earlier. She most likely didn't dress up nicely just for him as he did for her, she was just showing off what belonged to someone else, teasing him. If she had gone to Aidan's house wearing that outfit he most likely wouldn't be able to keep his hands off of her. A thought that made Frank mad and disgusted at the same time. Ally was his best friend. Over the years he'd come to see every side of her both good and bad. He valued her as a human being whereas other guys just thought she was hot. Aidan may have cared for her, but in Frank's mindset he wasn't any different from the other guys. He hadn't yet proven himself to be.

After what seemed like forever Ally returned and helped her mother clear the table as Frank, Evelyn, and Richard carried out the conversation to the living room. 

When Angie finally entered the living room and sat next to Evelyn, Frank noticed Ally wasn't with her. Taking note of Frank's expression Angela said, "She's in her room watching television. You're welcome to join her. We adults wouldn't interest you too much."

"Alright, thanks."

Ally's door was open when Frank got there. She had quickly changed out of her formal attire and was now in cozy pajamas and sprawled out on her bed.

She glanced at Frank when he knocked on the doorjamb and smiled. "Hey, pretty girl, trying to get away from me again?" Ally smiled but shook her head at him. When she didn't reply he asked, "Can I come in?"

She shrugged. "You've always been able to before."

With that he wandered into her room and jumped on her bed, lying next to her.

"Feels like we haven't done this in years," Frank murmured as he placed his hands behind his head and looked at the TV.

"Just a few months," Ally commented, still not meeting his gaze since he walked in.

"Look, I know you're a little upset with how things turned out tonight, but it's not all bad is it?"

Ally sighed and finally looked at Frank. "It's not. I'm sorry, okay? I just spend every major holiday with my parents and this year, this one time I asked to go somewhere else they completely shut me down."

"By 'they' you mean your dad. Your mom seems more on board about Aidan."

"Yeah, well, that's a good thing." Ally rolled her eyes and shook her head. "What I don't get is why my dad won't give anyone a chance. I partly blame you! My dad loves you. That makes it nearly impossible for him to open up to other guys my age."

"Will you listen to yourself? You sound crazy. Besides, there are other holidays. Also, you've been spending almost all of your free time with Aidan lately. In case you've forgotten, I care about you too. My mom does, your parents do. Cut us all some slack. If you really don't want me here just say so. I'm sorry I can't be your perfect Aidan but once upon a time I was important to you too. Being a best friend used to count for something around her," Frank argued. "You know what? Stay in your crabby, depressing mood, I'll be in the guest room until my mom says we're leaving. Guess I'll see you around, and if I don't," Frank paused and barely thought his next words through. "I guess that's okay too."

With that he walked out of her room and down the hall to the guest room, slamming the door shut enough so she could hear it but not loud enough to alert their parents.

...

Ally sighed and felt like ten tons of crap. She knew Frank was right, but fighting with him was just easier than admitting she may have feelings for him. She didn't want to have feelings for him. Eventually, she'd apologize to him once she was calm and able enough to mask her other emotions. But for right now, she was fine by herself.

After about twenty minutes, Ally gathered up her courage and walked the few yards to the guestroom where Frank was holed up.

She opened the door, not bothering to knock since this was her home, walked inside, and closed the door behind her.

Frank turned to gaze at her but didn't offer anything more. Ally took a seat next to him.

"Can I apologize for being such a big jerk earlier?" she asked gently.

"Only earlier?" Frank shot back.

Ally sighed. She needed them to work through this argument. "Look, I know I've been spending a lot of time with Aidan. I also know our relationship is affecting you but it shouldn't. Frankie, you are an important part of my life. You can never be replaced by whoever comes strolling in."

Frank met her serious gaze but still didn't respond.

"Ever since we've met you've been my better half. We've conquered so much together. I need you. You're this great part of my life I don't plan on ever letting go. So you're just going to have to accept that. And the fact that I can get a little into my own head, my own world, and shut you out and I'm sorry. We need to be open like we used to be. If I start being a jerk you need to let me know."

At that Frank smiled. "I'll always be there to tell you when you're being a jerk."

"See? I knew I could count on you!" Ally said with a wide smile and then sighed. "You know I love you, right? No matter who comes and goes, you're here to stay. Never forget that."

Frank gazed deeply into Ally's eyes and wanted to kiss her right then and there. He could picture a bunch of other scenarios but right now that's what he wanted: to kiss Ally.

He knew he couldn't stay mad at her, not when she was being so open and sincere. And definitely not when she had the sweetest puppy dog eyes he'd ever seen. 

"Come here." Frank sighed and pulled Ally into his arms. He kissed the top of her head and held her close. "I can't stay mad at you. You know that. Especially when you do it so cute and openly ridicule yourself."

Ally smiled widely and said, "Anything to get you to forgive me." She then tightened her arms around him as they lay back on the bed. 

Frank had chosen to put a movie on and after several minutes Ally had fallen asleep in his arms. As she slept he watched her face. He wanted to caress to her face, wanted to kiss her lips but he couldn't. She trusted him and she was with Aidan.

As Frank continued watching Ally she mumbled in her sleep. His heart ached to be with her. He loved her. He knew it without a doubt.

Maybe he just had to cross the line, just once. Put himself out there. He leaned down, an inch away from his lips touching hers when a light knock made him sit up and move away from Ally.

His mom poked her head in and smiled. "Hey, sweetie. You having a good night?"

"Yeah. Ally's pretty knocked out."

"Well she was up pretty early."

"Are we taking off?" Frank didn't want to leave. Was nowhere near ready to leave this bed with Ally lying peacefully next to him.

"That depends. I'm planning to visit some of my friends. I promised them I'd stop by. You're welcome to join me or I could drop you off at home or you could stay the night here. I already ran it by the Aversons and they're on board. Neither of you have school tomorrow."

Frank's heart leapt for joy. His wish had been answered but as he looked down at Ally his heart clenched. He should leave with his mom. Leave before Ally claimed another piece of his heart. Before he ended up giving her his entire heart and soul on a platter. He would destroy himself. But since he couldn't bear to leave her this way, asleep and vulnerable, he looked up at his mom and replied, "I think I'll be okay for the night. You go on ahead."

"Alright." His mom smiled and walked over to kiss his cheek. "I'll see you tomorrow. Be good, honey."

"You bet."

As Frank's mom left the room he lay back and curled up close next to Ally. She cuddled closer to him and smiled. "Love you, Frankie," Ally murmured.

Frank smiled and leaned in to caress her face. "You have no idea," he whispered before kissing her forehead and lying back down. 

So what if he gave her his heart and soul on a platter? Would that be such a bad thing?