Page 80 of The Spotlight Effect

“Just tell me your favorite food place,” I say.

“Uhm, I’m growing to really loveIn-N-Out,” she answers.

“Done, get dressed. I’ll meet you in the car.”

I head downstairs leaving her standing there confused, feeling good about myself. I’m going to make her happy today whether she likes it or not. “Going out?” her mom asks once she sees me.

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Okay, thank you for this, Grayson. I’m sure you’re making her day.”

“No problem.” I feel good hearing that from her mom. I really hope I’m making her day. I hated seeing her cry like that. It broke my heart, and I didn’t think that was possible.

I make my way to my car and wait. I have the perfect idea; I’m going to get her favorite food and snacks, then take her to the studio. She looks at peace when she sings and her voice sounds like an angel symphony, so I don’t mind listening to her sing.

Alexia emerges from the house only a couple minutes later in a colorful plaid dress with short, puffed sleeves and Doc Martens on. It’s a very cute dress, stopping at mid- thigh, the skirt lightly flares out. She looks like a dream in it.

She uncrosses her arms and opens the passenger door and slides in. “Now can I know?” she asks.

“No.”

I crank up and put the car in gear as she huffs beside me. It’s funny seeing her react like this when she doesn’t get what shewants. “Why can’t I know?” She just can’t let it go. I laugh a little at her question.

“This is not a laughing matter,” she adds.

“Just let me surprise you.” She leans back in her seat in defeat. I guess she’s giving up.

Alexis swings her mini bookbag off and sits it across her lap. It’s a cute little mini-Beetlejuice bag. It definitely fits her personality perfectly. “Is Beetlejuice your favorite movie?” I ask her.

“One of them,” she answers.

“What are the others?” I want to know all her favorite things, even the least favorites. Know what she likes. What makes her tick.

“The Nightmare Before Christmasand10 Things I Hate About You.” I’ve seen the first one but never the second.

“I’ve never seen the second one,” I tell her and her head quickly swings my way.

“You must watch it if you want any chance of this working out.” She points between us.

“Our relationship depends on a movie.” I laugh. She can’t be serious.

“Yes, Popstar, it does.” She pats my shoulder. Girls. They are ridiculous.

I pull into the drive-through ofIn-N-Out. “Order whatever you want,” I tell her as we pull up to the speaker.

“Can I get a large animal-style fry, a double-double with peppers and no onions, extra mustard, and sauce, please,” she orders with no hesitation.

It makes my body tingle that she’s willing to let me take care of her. She’s willing to spend my money. I love this feeling. I want to do everything for her.

Forever.

I want to hold her, kiss her, hug her, and take care of her. Her to be mine and I hers. I know I’m completely down bad for this girl.

“I’ll have a combo one and make the fries cheese fries with peppers,” I order.

“What drink?” the lady asks.

“I’ll have a Coke,” I reply.

---