Henry was leaning against the steering wheel of the black BMW he drove. Of course it wasn't his car, he could never afford such an expensive vehicle, he was just a chauffeur. Well, not even that, he was the 'errand boy'. The guy who'd get you anything or do almost anything for money. Need someone to buy you beer at five in the morning? Call Henry. Need someone to drive you out of town? Call Henry. Need someone to tell your boyfriend he's a cheating bastard and that it's over? Yes, Henry would also do that. It was a tough job, but he could still do worse. He knew there were those types of clients who wouldn't pay you enough, or those who didn't even know how to mumble a simple 'thanks.' But fortunately, Henry's client wasn't like that, Mia did appreciate his work and even though she never said it, she was happy to have him. She also paid him a good salary. But for that, he had to put up with her moods, the late night calls and ridiculous errands. Henry was often asked by his family and friends why he did that, why did he work for this crazy woman? There was just one reason but of course no one knew it;

He loved Mia…

He had loved her since the day he met her.

 

It had been 2009, when Henry was just 21. He was driving around in his old, red VW when he saw a lone person walking down the dark streets of New York. It was raining, but the person had no umbrella, not even a jacket she could pull over her head. As she slouched through the rain, it seemed like she didn't even notice the pouring water. She looked perfectly absentminded;  her head hung low and her legs were dirty from the puddle of water she just staggered through.

Henry knew what the woman would think once she'd see him, but despite the unease he felt, he pulled over and rolled down the window.

"Miss? Are you alright?"

The woman didn't answer and just kept walking. Either she had ignored or not noticed him. So Henry slowly drove next to her waiting for a reply, "Miss?" He said a little louder. The woman's head snapped up her wide eyes scanned the sidewalk and buildings. But as they landed on Henry's face he felt his heart skip a beat.

He had seen beautiful women before, but never something more angel-like than this person. Even though it was dark and raining, he could see everything; these crystal blue eyes, that long, wavy black hair, this heart shaped face ,these plumb red lips and that frown. The frown was the only thing Henry didn't like on her face.

The woman stared at him with a raised brow, suddenly Henry remembered that he had been gawking at her way too long. He should say something if he didn't want to look like an idiot.

"Miss, is everything okay?"

"No," she said dryly "but what is it to you?"

Henry cleared his throat, "may I help you? Should I drive you somewhere?"

The woman glanced at his VW with dubious eyes. Henry patted the steering wheel with a smile, "this may not be a shiny, new car but it definitely drives well."

The woman glanced back to his face and tilted her head, "It's not the car that worries me."

Ouch. What was she thinking? Henry just tried to help!

"I promise I am no psycho, but you may run into one sooner or later." His eyes moved to the end of the dark street.

The woman crossed her arms over her chest, "how do I know that you're not lying?"

Henry shrugged, "just trust me."

"I don't trust anyone."

"But I trust you will get a cold if you stay in the rain."

"Remind me again, how this is any of your business?"

Henry sighed reluctantly, she may look like an angel, but she definitely wasn't one. "Well, I am just trying to help you, but if you don't want to…" He trailed off and rolled the window back up again. His foot almost stepped on the gas pedal but before he could drive away, the door next to him opened up again.

"I live in the Carlton Hotel," she mumbled without looking at him.

What the hell? That Hotel was fifteen minutes away and also in the opposite direction, but now that Henry had already offered his help he couldn't just take it back.

"Just to warn you, I have pepper spray in my bag and I am not afraid to use it."

"Good to know," Replied Henry trying to sound calm, it was understandable this woman was suspicious of him. What stranger would offer you a ride in the middle of the night? If Henry had been in her situation, he would have rejected the offer. This girl was either really brave or just really stupid. But however it was, Henry just tried to be nice. Hence, he had no other choice but to drive through the city and drop this lady off.

Unfortunately, driving happened to be harder than Henry expected, how was he supposed to focus on the road ,when the woman smelled way too good, the red dress she wore just reached to her thighs and it wasn't easy for Henry to keep his eyes of them.

"Do you always drive strangers around?" Asked the woman as she looked outside the window.

"Sure, it's my hobby."

"I don't like sarcasm."

"I don't like impolite people, but sometimes you have to deal with the things you hate."

Now she finally looked at him, "are you implying that I am impolite?"

"No, not at all."

The woman didn't fail to hear the sarcasm. "How can you say that straight to my face?"

Henry chuckled, "want me to mail it to you?"

The woman snorted, "Really, do you even know who I am?"

"A woman who likes rain?"

She snorted again, "I am Mia Parker!"

"Henry Steiner, pleasure."

"Did…you never hear my name before?" She asked now startled. There was a change in that voice; she seemed astonished but also a little insulted. Henry glanced at her in confusion, "uh…is that bad?"

Mia turned her head and glanced at her folded hands with a sigh, "I…I'm sorry," she whispered. "I…thought you were just one of them."

Henry raised a brow, "one of…who?"

"May I ask what you do for living?"

"I fix cars."

Mia snickered, "you fix cars but you drive an old thing like this?"

Henry hated it when someone insulted Carrie. Yes, he had named his car Carrie that was just a guy's thing.

"I fix cars, that doesn't mean I can drive all of them."

"Right, right, so…you're not a paparazzi?"

"Huh?"

Mia looked back at him and for the first time, she smiled. Henry's eyes widened in sensation, his heart dropped on the floor just like his brain and probably his sanity. He wasn't able to take his eyes of that girl's face. How could eyes with such a cold color look so warm? How could lips form such a smile? And how could this simple expression drive him this crazy?

"You should probably focus on the road," muttered Mia bringing Henry back to his senses.

He clutched the wheel tightly until his knuckles turned all white, feeling like a complete idiot.

At least Henry managed to focus on the road until they arrived at the noble hotel. But he wondered what kind of business Mia had there but then he had a weird idea; that short, red leathered dress and that remark about him being one of them, made him jump to conclusions. Was she a prostitute and meeting her 'client' in this hotel? What a shame, thought Henry. This girl was way too pretty for that, but then why did she ask about paparazzis?

Was she a celebrity?

"Well," Mia sighed , "thanks."

Henry nodded, thanks to his weird thoughts he wasn't able to speak.

"See? After all I am not that impolite."

Henry smiled wryly, "yeah sorry about that, and the sarcasm."

Mia shrugged, "you're forgiven."

She shot him one last smile and then left the car.

 

That had been one weird night, Henry couldn't find any sleep after that encounter. This smile wouldn't leave his mind, and whenever he tried to close his eyes, he was taken back to the moment where he had picked her up from the street. Okay, that sounded weird. But that was just how it happened.

When he got up the next morning and turned the TV on, he almost fell off his chair. Some morning show brought a report on celebrities, and one of the celebrities they showed happened to be Mia. A girl who had been acting ever since she was a child, she used to be loved by everyone. She had been so talented but as soon as puberty hit, she was entangled in nothing but scandals. At the age of 16 she had been found drunk on a public bench and arrested. At the age of eighteen, she had supposedly been a drug addict. Her license was taken away for driving drunk and so on.

Henry wondered why he had never seen her on TV even if she was still working as an actress.

One of the movies she had participated in was currently playing in theaters, "the taste of your tears" was the name of the cheesy, romance movie. Henry watched it not sure what he should think about these two hours of this illogical nothingness...

A few days passed, Henry was at work when his boss Jeffrey called out for him. Henry walked into his boss's office wondering if he would get scolded again but as he entered the tiny room he almost died from a heart attack. The actress Mia was there, sitting in front of the little metal desk smiling seductively.

"May I talk to him for just a few seconds?" She asked Jeffrey with a sweet smile. The old man was clearly having trouble breathing, so he just nodded and staggered outside.

"Hello," Said Mia patting the chair next to hers, "I hope you remember me."

How could he not remember her?

She smiled again, and nodded towards the empty chair. Breathless, Henry sat down and listened to her weird offer…

 

Yes, that's how it happened, she wanted him to be her assistant aka errand boy. He got to drive the black, shiny BMW that Mia could no longer drive, so he took her to parties, hotels, friend's or boyfriend's places (as much as he hated that), ran errands and drove her to the studios when she was making a new film. But sometimes she asked him just to drive around, she didn't care where they went and when they'd come back but she just wanted him to drive.

When the weather was good, Henry opened the car's ceiling, turned the music on full volume and drove on highways. Mia loved the feeling of wind in her hair, she said it made her feel free. But when it was raining, she was quiet and deep in thought. It was like the weather always symbolized her mood. Maybe that was why she had looked so sad when he met her.

Henry leaned back with a sigh and looked outside the window, it was midnight already. But there was still no sign of Mia. She was supposed to be at the party in twenty minutes but there was no way they would make it on time.

 

 

Henry pulled out his phone to call her but in that moment she opened the door and sat inside.

"Hey," she said cheerfully.

"You're late," grumbled Henry without looking up.

"I know, but who cares? The VIP's are always late," she trailed off, "but sorry I made you wait." During the five years they have known each other, she learned it was better to show good manners in front of him. Henry hated nothing more than impolite people. And Mia didn't want him to hate her, he was the only true friend she had.

"We should get going'." Said Henry and pulled out of the driveway. Something was off about him, Mia watched him with weary eyes wondering what could be wrong. He usually smiled more and asked what today's occasion was. These parties always had an occasion, of course they were mostly made up just so that the directors and actors had an excuse to get drunk.

But today Henry said nothing, he didn't even compliment her outfit. Okay, he never really said anything, but Mia could always feel his eyes on her. And she liked that. He wasn't staring like other guys who saw in her nothing but a trophy, the way he looked at her was always, weird. Like he couldn't believe his eyes, they were always full of wonder. Other times when he looked at her, it seemed as if he had never seen another human being before.

Maybe he's just in a bad mood, thought Mia with a shrug and decided to leave him alone. Instead she glanced out of the window, it was a cool November night but the sky was cloudless and revealed its most beautiful collection of starlight. "Henry," said Mia softly, "could you open the ceiling?"

"What? You'll freeze, its damn cold."

"Doesn't matter."

"Why do you want me to open it?"

Mia shrugged, "the stars are beautiful tonight."

Was she drunk already? Or had she taken some pills? Mia waited for him to open the ceiling but nothing happened. She moved her gaze to him, seeing his jaw was strained as he gripped the wheel so tightly like he wanted to break it. His eyes were fixed on the road ahead.

Mia cleared her throat, "open the ceiling?"

With a loud, annoyed sigh he clicked on the button, "you're not even wearing a jacket." All she wore was her black cocktail dress that reached to her knees, the black plateau heels she wore added a provocative tone to her outfit. Her Hair was down looking as soft and silky as ever, her lips were painted blood red and her beautiful eyes were surrounded by a thick, black line. Of course she looked beautiful as ever, she looked as sexy as ever. And of course Henry had a hard time controlling himself as ever.

"So beautiful," muttered Mia as they drove down the street, the sky really was beautiful the stars shone brighter than- Mia thought, ever before, "there'll be a meteor shower tonight."

"At four a.m." muttered Henry.

"I want to see it," said Mia, "why don't we see it?"

"Why should we?"

Mia smiled, "I'd like to make a wish." She smiled at Henry knowing how he'd react when she smiled. It was obvious he had a thing for her, but he never mentioned it, never made a move. That was why she trusted him, he was one guy who didn't just see the fame and body in her, "I know what you're thinking, what could a rich, famous girl like me wish for?"

Henry said nothing, he knew what she wanted. He knew it all, Mia wanted no big house and fast car, she wanted no Oscar or positive criticism. All she longed for was appreciation, the only thing she really wanted... was love. Not the cheesy love that was displayed in all the movies she acted in, but real love. Someone to think she was beautiful even without make up, someone to think she is sexy even if she wore sweatpants. Someone who would eat cereal and watch old cartoons with her, someone who could make her laugh until her stomach hurt. And someone who didn't sleep with her, but make love. She also wanted the love of a family that she never got to feel. But that was something she knew she would never get. Her alcoholic parents had too much to deal with. How could they even think of love when the only thing they talked about was her money?

"Well, what do you want to wish for?"

Mia smiled and shrugged, "I can't tell because then it won't come true."

A few moments of silence passed and Mia started to shiver.

"Told you, you'd freeze," said Henry clearly annoyed. He was about to touch the button but Mia suddenly gripped his hand, "don't close it."

Henry was in trance as her hand held his, these warm sparks he had felt the first time he saw her, just electrocuted his body again. His heart was somewhere in his throat and everything around him disappeared.

Mia smiled at him knowingly which made it even harder for Henry to concentrate on his driving. Fine, let her get cold, he told himself and pulled his hand away.

"You can't see the meteor shower here."

"Why not?"

"You need to go to a dark place with no lights around," Henry's eyes moved to the night sky, "you may see the stars, but it'll be too light for the shower."

Mia shrugged, "doesn't matter, then just drive me to some dark place."

Henry sighed; this wasn't good. He didn't want to stay with her this long, he didn't want to be with her during the sunset, it was enough already! He needed to talk to her, but not in such an atmosphere.

A few days ago, when he was waiting in the car in front of the studios, Henry had overheard a conversation between two actors. One of them was Riley O'Donald. The most annoying human being on earth, he did nothing but pull lame jokes, grovel and of course, drive Mia crazy. He hated Riley because Mia loved him. Mia dated him and seemed completely star struck whenever she just heard his name.

The woman who was talking to Riley was one of those actresses who no one really knew but she was at every big event and played small roles in many movies. Henry had forgotten her name…

Leah..? Lisa…? Laura…?

While he tried to remember her name he could hear Riley busting out in laughter, Henry glanced back at them slightly annoyed. Couldn't they just be on drugs or in a bad mood like any other actor?

He was about to roll up the window, but as he heard Riley mention Mia, he straightened his back and moved his head closer to the door.

What he heard Riley say, drove Henry so mad, that he was so close to leaving the car and smashing Riley's stupid face on the stupid concrete of the stupid parking lot. Riley was planning to leave Mia…for Leah or Laura or- whatever her name was. He called Mia stupid for not noticing his affair.

As Henry thought of this day, he had gotten just madder. It was annoying he couldn't tell Mia about it.

Mia had once declared that she would be very pissed if Henry ever mentioned Riley. He had never liked this jerk but when he tried to open Mia's eyes she would ignore him or just tell him to shut up. She would probably not even believe that Riley was a cheating jerk. And maybe she did, but was afraid to admit it. Another heart break would also break her. So Henry had no other option but to keep quiet. As much as he hated it, but Mia would find out about them sooner or later. Then she would throw a fit, get drunk and hook up with some guy who would probably tell the press about their night together just to get some money. It was always the same way; Mia never had the power to control her heartache. She would yell, drink, curse, blame anyone else and eventually cry in Henry's arms. Every time that happened he was so close to beating the guy up who dared to break her heart, but not only that.

Mia would cry in his arms, soak his shirts with her salty tears and shiver until she calmed down, he always stroked her back or patted her head. He wouldn't talk, nor provide is opinion but just listen to her sobs. Whenever she was this close, Henry had a hard time controlling his actions. Sometimes he wanted to confess his feelings to her, show her that there was a guy out there who would never ever make her feel this way. But other times he was so mad but also so thrilled that he wanted nothing but steal a kiss form her lips. Those luscious, red lips deserved to be kissed every day. But just to make her feel loved, not used.

Henry knew he could make her happy, his love was sincere. He didn't just like her body but also her character. While other people failed to find out who Mia really was, he knew everything. He knew how much she hated show offs and conceited people, she hated prejudiced or old fashioned people.

Henry knew exactly what cold drink she'd want on a hot summer day and what hot drink she preferred in the winter. Only he knew that only when her eyes sparkled, her smile was sincere. And he knew that if she had caring, loving parents. She could show the world how kind and softhearted she was.

Yes, only Henry knew her. But knowing her wasn't enough. He wasn't enough. Even though he could have made her happy –and he knew he could do that- Henry could never be the one for her. She belonged to the world of glamor and publicity. Henry belonged to his garage; to his poor but loving parents. He belonged to the local bar with a beer in his hand and to the little cabin in the forest that his uncle owned. This was Henry's life but Mia would never play a part in it. The only thing that connected them, was Henry's job. But not anymore.

He was fed up with his feelings, he no longer wanted to hold her in his arms if he couldn't love her. He no longer wanted to dry the tears that another man had caused. He had been so selfless in the past, but it was enough now.

Eventually he had to think of himself too. Henry was tired of this loneliness and the pain, no matter how much that would disappoint Mia, he was through with it.

That's why he wished to leave soon, he hoped Mia wouldn't get too drunk so he could tell her he'd quit. But what if she'd find out that her boyfriend had been cheating? Then she would definitely get wasted, and that was no good moment to talk to her.

"Hello-o?" Said Mia impatient, "are you even listening?"

Henry's head snapped up, how long had he been in these deep thoughts? "What?"

Mia sighed, "dark place remember?"

Henry shrugged, "it's just a meteor shower, why do you want to go there and besides you may not be in the condition to go anywhere else after the party."

"I told you I want to make a wish but why wouldn't I be in the condition to do that? I am not sick or anything."

"uh," Henry clutched the steering wheel again, "well, won't you be tired?"

Mia chuckled like he had just doubter her being human, "I'll be fine, please Henry, I really want to see it."

She knew exactly how to get her way with him, she wouldn't have to say 'do what you're being paid for' but just smile seductively.

Of course Henry's eyes were instantly glued to this beautiful face, "whatever." He mumbled after a moment of silence.

'Whatever' was Henry-ish for okay. So Mia got what she wanted as usual. Though Henry wondered if she still wished to see the shower in case she ran into Riley. Maybe Henry had to comfort her one more time before he gave her up forever. But that didn't matter anyways, since he wanted Mia to keep him in a good memory. And it would be better if Mia remembered him as her friend not as the person who left when she needed him.

It was quiet then, Henry was in his own thoughts while Mia was in hers. Though after a while the silence was disturbed by a clattering sound. Henry looked to the side and saw Mia shivering, "you're cold."

"Leave it open" was Mia’s reply.

With a sigh Henry grabbed Mia's hands and put them on the steering wheel, he ignored the sparks that flew threw his stomach at this slight skin contact and pulled his leather jacket off.

"Wear it," he mumbled wondering how Mia could even stand a second in this cold.

"And you?"

"I'm fine."

Mia smiled warmly, "you're such a gentleman."

No he wasn't, he wasn't even her friend. He knew he was the worst; he was going to leave her alone when she needed him the most.

"Why are you like this today?"

"Huh?"

Mia tilted her head, with a worried frown, "are you mad at me?"

Henry barely listened to her, something else had occupied his thoughts now; Mia was wearing his leather jacket. Why did he like this image? Why did he feel this joy of seeing her in his clothes? His smell, probably rose up her nose. But it didn't seem to bother her. Why would it? Henry always took care of his looks and hygiene. Even though he wasn't that rich, he always made sure to wear nice and clean clothes. He was really into light colored shirts with long sleeves. Though he would push the sleeves up to the elbows like the current fashion often displayed it on the runway. Henry wasn't conceited but proud that the pushed up sleeves revealed his muscles. He used to work out every now and then, he wasn't too burly but still muscular enough. His golden tan on his usual pale skin was still present even though summer was long over. Henry's eyes were hazel brown, his dirty blonde hair was cropped short at the sides and a little longer on the top, his nose was slightly curved but just fit perfectly to the striking features of his oval shaped face and his full lips. A few beard stubbles decorated his chin and cheeks, without them he would look like a baby face despite his age. But all together he was a handsome man, never failing to catch a girl's attention.

"I'm not…mad," he mumbled eventually and moved his gaze back to the road.

"Then why are you acting this strange?"

"How am I acting strange?" Henry hated himself, but he couldn't bring himself to fake a smile for Mia's sake.

Mia moved closer to his seat, "is something bugging you?"

"No."

"Then can't you smile for me? At least once." Henry glanced at Mia who was very close now. That smell of cherries robbed his breath. Then ,there was also this smile. Why was she doing this? This was the worst kind of torture. "You should put your seat belt on." This time he wouldn't give in. This time he would be stubborn.

He heard Mia sigh, "You are mad at me." She stated crossing her arms, "though I wonder why."

"I am not mad," said Henry with a strained jaw. He didn't say more then and neither did Mia. She was worried her friend didn't like her anymore while Henry was still wondering how he should tell her he's going to quit.

As they drove down the lonely road Henry's eyes would occasionally move to Mia's face. She looked absent minded, maybe even sad. Did she suspect something about Riley? Or was she mad at Henry?

He didn't like either option, but sooner or later he had to deal with one of them. No matter what he did, by the end of the night Mia would be disappointed.

 

The party was located in one of those expensive hotels, Mia's new movie "summer blush" had been very successful, reason enough to celebrate and reason enough for Mia to get drunk.

Mia was looking forward to seeing Riley, though she kept her excitement hidden. Henry wasn't in a good mood so she shouldn't push it. Mentioning her boyfriend in front of the guy who was in love with her, would be like handing a terrorist a grenade.

She had caused Henry enough pain already.

With a pout Mia recalled the memories in which she had complained about the guys she had been with, Henry had always listened to her patiently. Had Mia actually ever had a friend like him?

"Why are you looking at me like that?" Mumbled Henry as he noticed Mia's weird gaze. With a sigh she shook her head and leaned back in her chair, "I just thought of you…"

"Of me?" Asked Henry surprised, "and what did you think of?"

"What a great friend you are."

Surely, this was a compliment but it hurt Henry. Mia was just friendzoning him more.

"Why aren't you saying anything?" Asked Mia though she could imagine why he was quiet. She knew she shouldn't have said that, knowing he had feelings for her was something she had gotten used to. But she still didn’t know how to deal with them. Being sensitive wasn’t easy to her, especially when it came to Henry, who she could always be herself with.

"Well, I am just being myself," mumbled Henry eventually, "friendship is all I can give you."

Mia wondered if there was a second meaning to it.

"But you have a lot of friends," he muttered with bitter thoughts.

"But you're the only true friend I have, you're the only one I can trust." Mia smiled hoping this would raise his mood, but he showed no reaction except gripping the wheel even tighter.

"Hey, don't get too drunk today, alright? There's something I need to tell you."

Mia tilted her head, "what is it?"

"Later."

No more words were said. Mia wondered if Henry finally wanted to confess his feelings or if he had different thoughts. Henry though, hoped Mia wouldn't be too curious. And not ask about it until he was ready to talk.

After 12 minutes, they finally arrived at the hotel. Mia handed Henry his jacket and left the vehicle.

"See you later," she mumbled with a quick grin and walked off. Henry watched her until she was no longer in sight. There were three more hours, he still had time to figure something out. When he had started to work with Mia he still went to the big parties with her, he was allowed to accompany her, but as he saw what was actually going on, on such events, he preferred to stay away. Seeing Mia flirt with other men or being hit on by them was paining is heart so much, that he could no longer stand it. It was just too much to deal with. Better stay away and not know what she's doing than being around and watch her doing things he wanted to do with her-and only her. Therefore, Henry drove around for a while wondering what he could do, he glanced at his watch which read 12: 45 a.m.

He could go home and sleep for a few hours, or he could see if some of his friends are still up. But then he dismissed both options. If he went home now, he'd arrive at 1:30, that would barely give him time to sleep, because Mia needed to be picked up again. And seeing his friends wasn't such a good idea either. Since it was Friday, they were probably in some club or bar. Surely, they wouldn't mind his company, but if he told them he would leave soon again so Mia would be picked up, they would throw their usual jokes at him and today he didn't feel like hearing them.

None of his friends liked Mia, well neither did his parents but at least they kept their comments to themselves.

"Are you still her slave? How long are you going to keep this thing up? Even if I was homeless, I would never work for such people." Those were just the mild comments his friends made, Henry didn't want to recall the other remarks that included some heavy curses.

No one understood him or Mia; she wasn't the 'scandal bitch', the hot actress or the woman who dated more guys than anyone else. No one knew how often she was dumped, no one knew that behind this 'hot' facade was actually just a lonely girl waiting for someone to pick her heart up and fix it. No one ever heard of the wrong friends who caused these scandals. No one knew because no one but Henry dared to look behind the mask of glamor and fame. If some had more sympathy or compassion, they'd see that Mia was nothing but lost. Henry wanted nothing more than help her find her way, no matter where it took her even if he didn't belong there. But it was too late; he was giving up on her like everyone else had before. Though he was sure he was probably the only person who felt bad about leaving her.

He was sorry.

 

 

Henry drove around for a couple of minutes and eventually stopped the car near an Irish bar. Even though it was Friday night, the place seemed pretty empty. Only a few bar stools and tables were occupied by mostly old men. Henry walked to the bar and sat on a stool. He ordered his favorite beer and listened to the slow rhythms of the unfamiliar music. As he glanced at his watch again, he sighed. He wished he could've spent more time with Mia on his last day. But things weren't that easy. She was probably getting drunk at the moment, or maybe she was with Riley.

Riley. Just as he thought of that name, Henry felt like breaking the whole place into pieces. He clutched the glass like he wanted to break it but then, released his grip and took a deep breath. It wasn't his to worry anymore, Hell! It had never been his. He was just the errand boy, wasn't he?

And even if Mia's heart was breaking again, he wouldn't worry. In a few months he wouldn't even care, or would he?

Henry had liked girls before but it was never easy to forget them, so how would he be able to forget Mia? The only one he didn't just like but loved? He couldn't imagine trying to forget her, he couldn't imagine being with another woman.

How was he supposed to move on, if all his thoughts were just about her?

"Feeling lonely?" Said a feminine voice. Henry glanced up and saw a pretty woman sitting on the stool next to him. She smiled as she brought her red drink to her lips, her hair was blonde and reached to her shoulders. Her gray eyes were surrounded by a thick set of long lashes and her smile was pretty but also kind of mocking. She didn't look like the usual women who sat in bars. Most of them were always too dressed up and revealed too much skin. But blondie just wore simple jeans and a red shirt with a white pattern on it.

"I am not feeling lonely," mumbled Henry looking back at his glass.

"You look like you are."

"Looks are deceiving."

The woman nodded like she knew what he meant, "I guess it's a broken heart then."

"What?"

She tilted her head while her lips formed a mocking smile, "a handsome young man who drives an expensive car, visits a bar and does nothing but stare at his drink." Her eyes pointed at the beer, "you're not even drinking it, just staring at it. What a shame for such good European beer, it's such a waste."

Henry gulped the drink in response, "happy now?"

She laughed a throaty laugh, "Sorry, I am not the beer police."

"Then what? Hmm? The bar psychologist?"

She raised her brow, "No I am here just for the same reason." Henry didn't answer so she continued. "I got dumped by some jerk."

"Sorry about that."

"No," she shook her head, "say congratulations, its good I got rid of him."

"Then I guess you're not looking as lonely as I do."

She smirked, "right now, I am probably not."

Okay, she was flirting. Even if she was pretty, Henry had no nerve for it. Why couldn't he just forget about Mia and meet new women? He glanced back up and looked at her gray eyes thinking that they were beautiful. Other men would've probably fallen for this languishing look, or they would at least have an one nighter with her. However, Henry wouldn't.

He wasn't the type of guy to play with women, though sometimes he wished he was. He didn't want to be concerned about other people all the time. Just for once, he wanted to be selfish. Selfish people got hurt less, at least he thought so. And a little less pain for once, would surely do him good.

So in order to be selfish, he was going to leave Mia.

"Why aren't you saying anything?"

Henry shrugged, "sorry, I was just thinking about something."

"Or someone?" She said with a raised brow, "man, it looks like girls don't treat you well."

"She does, but just in a friendly way."

The girl nodded, "what is your name?"

"Henry."

"I'm Charlotte but call me Charlie, listen Henry, I was friends with this guy for over six years. I was there for him when his dad died, when he got fired and when someone had broken in. I was always around when he needed me, I had the patience to be there for him whenever he needed me but for a long time I didn't tell him how I feel."

"I didn't tell her either." Mumbled Henry as he ran his thumb over the glass.

"Though, eventually I did tell him."

"How did he react?"

Charlie's face showed no emotions, "at first he said he just likes me as a friend."

"Must have been awkward then, right?"

"Very," snickered Charlie, "but I felt better after I told him. A few months later though, we started dating."

Henry nodded, "wow that's great."

"Yeah," said Charlie unimpressed, "though you can see the outcome."

"Wait, the guy who dumped you is him?"

Charlie nodded, "yes after dating for two years he said he didn't love me anymore." She stated it as if it didn't affect her at all.

"Well at least he was honest, so why did you call him a jerk?"

"That's the thing, he wasn't honest. He said he didn't love me, but I know the full truth, he loves my sister."

Ouch. "That sucks big time, I am sorry to hear that."

The girl next to Henry nodded but said nothing.

"Are you mad at your sister now?"

Charlie pressed her lips into a thin line shaking her head, "I am trying not to be mad."

Henry tilted his head narrowing his eyes, "is it working?"

She shrugged, "I don't know. I mean, it's not her fault. She didn't do anything with him, she loves me; but…" she rested her chin on her hand, "she loves him too. She told me that just a few minutes after Luke dumped me."

So she was the only one being honest. Henry wondered how he would react if his brother fell for his girlfriend. Surely he wouldn't be able to play it cool.

"She was honest, Luke wasn't. So I am trying not to be mad, even if it's hard," Charlie bit her lower lip as she pushed her empty glass away. "Sorry, you probably have enough to deal with."

Henry smiled slightly, "don't worry about it."

"Seems like you're the bar psychologist, not me." She mumbled lowly, "well, I guess we all have to deal with such things." She took a deep breath, finally letting some emotions cross her face, "I don't care about Luke. I know I shouldn't."

"You'll find someone better," mumbled Henry. But why had he said it? He didn't even know Charlie.

"Maybe, but what I was trying to tell you is that you should be honest about your emotions. Even if she doesn't love you back. You have to tell her the truth."

"Don't think so," he replied, "I know she doesn't have any feelings for me. She's got a ton of guys who are just waiting for their chance. Why would she care about me?"

"Because you're her friend? And besides, once you tell her, you feel relieved; like a huge burden has been taken off your chest. Don't you think it's better to be honest? Instead of wondering what could have been?"

Good question. Until now, Henry had never even considered confessing his feelings to Mia. Such a thought had never crossed his mind before, not even once! But as he thought about it now, he felt nervous. Maybe he should really tell her the truth, also because he wasn't going to see her again. She probably didn't feel that way back but it wouldn't affect him anymore. If he told her, he would leave knowing he tried everything.

"She must be something special."

A goofy smile crossed Henry's face, "she is."

"Well, good luck with her."

Henry was about to say 'thanks' but his ringing phone interrupted him; it was Mia.

"Yes?"

"Where are you?" He could hear she was speaking through a strained jaw. And voices yelled in the background. Wasn't there also the sound of cameras?

"At a bar, why?"

"You should be here!" She yelled, "Why aren't you here? Come and pick me up, I want to go home"

"Why? What's wrong?" He asked though he knew the answer already- Riley.

"I am not paying you to ask questions but to drive me." She shouted.

Henry bit his lip lowering the phone in his hand, every girl had mood swings but he knew exactly what the tone of her voice meant. She found out about Riley and that woman.

"Everything okay?" Asked Charlie with a frown, "bad news?"

"Henry? Henry? Are you there? God, did you fall asleep? Hello? I am talking to you!"

"Yeah ,yeah give me ten minutes."

"Hurry up!" She yelled and hung up.

Henry sighed heavily, retrieving some money from his pocket and placed it on the wooden counter.

"Leaving already?" Asked Charlie disappointed.

"yeah, got some…stuff to do." Henry spun back around and shot her a smile, "it was great to meet you and thanks for your advice."

She nodded returning the smile, "go get her."

Henry snickered about her words. Like 'getting' her was even possible! He left the bar, got into his car and drove down the streets. Too bad he hadn't had the chance to get to know Charlie better. She seemed nice, in a platonic way of course.

As Henry drove along the dark streets, he told himself to focus on Mia now. He knew something bad happened and she needed him now; that was probably the only goodbye present he could give her.

He glanced at his watch hoping he'd be at the hotel before the ten minutes would pass, he really didn't want Mia to throw another fit, even though it was probably already too late for that.

He pulled up the street that lead to the fancy hotel and rolled down the windows. He didn't need to check if Mia was drunk or not. Even though she hadn't been long at the party, Henry was sure she was completely wasted and he couldn't stand the smell of booze in the car.

Mia stood at the entrance with crossed arms, her make-up was all ruined, and sadly she wasn't alone. She was surrounded by paparazzi. How come she wasn't moving away? Why did she let them take pictures of her? Usually, she hated paparazzis why not do something against them?

Henry sensed something was worse than usual, this wasn't Mia's usual behavior. Riley must have severely hurt her. "That bastard," hissed Henry through his teeth and jumped out of the car. He carried his jacket on one arm to put it on Mia. Wasn't she freezing?

He quickly fought his way through the crowd and grabbed Mia on her arm.
"Let's go," he mumbled.

"No!" She shook his arm off, "how could you leave me here?!" Her eyes were surrounded by smeared make up. She had cried already. And tomorrow every gossip paper and  T.V show would be full of these pictures.

"Do you really want to have this discussion right now?" Said Henry throwing meaningful glances at the paparazzi who repeatedly called her name. But Mia just snorted instead of giving an answer.

"Okay, look." He moved his head closer so the people around him wouldn't hear , "do you really feel like having another scandal? Or would you prefer to talk to me in a civilized manner? I mean if you're able to in this drunk stupor."

She looked at him like he had just confessed a murder, "it's easy for you to judge isn't it?"

The clicking noises and flashing lights from the cameras were getting on Henry's nerves. He wanted to talk to Mia alone without any disturbance. Why would she create another scandal just when he was about to leave her? This was really not his day.

"Are you coming or not?" Asked Henry not bothering to hide his annoyance. "Oh, now you want me to come? Just a few minutes ago, you weren't even here!"

Henry sighed, "They are taking pictures of you." He grumbled, "how about we discuss the rest in the car?"

Mia wiped her face and wore his jacket, without looking at Henry , she stumbled forward ignoring the questions of the paparazzi and Henry's offered hand.

"Is this your new boyfriend?" "Who is this guy?" "Why did you leave the party so soon? What happened to your make up?"

"Now," hissed Henry when he finally started the car, "I am sorry I wasn't there, but how was I supposed to know you would want to go home so soon?"

"You're supposed to be there whenever I need you, not just when you happened to be free!" Mia shrugged his jacket off and angrily threw it on his laps. "Everyone leaves me alone, including you!"

Henry sighed, "You know that's not true." It wasn't true…yet.

"It's just a matter of time until you do."

Henry didn't answer. He didn't want to lie, Mia was right. But how was he supposed to tell her when she was this angry and sad? Henry knew, he had to comfort her one last time.

"What happened?" He asked after a while.

Mia shrugged , "turns out you were right about Riley. He cheated on me with Linda."

Oh right, her name was Linda! "I'm sorry." Henry said but didn't wish to say more, he didn't want to know how Mia found out about it. He was sure if he heard more, he would go back and beat this fucker up- for real this time.

"Henry?" Her voice was just a whisper now, "is there something wrong with me?"

Henry glanced up meeting a pained face, "no." He said, "Why do you think that?"

"I always fall for the wrong type of guys, I can never really depend on one. Because I know my heart will be broken again."

"There ,there you just haven't met the right guy yet," offered Henry but Mia just shook her head. The expression on her face said this time she wouldn't feel better after a few nice words. This would take a lot more than a few 'back pats' to dry her tears. But Henry had no idea how to do that; he couldn't just say something comforting before he quit. Wouldn't that be weird?

"Why aren't you saying anything?" Asked Mia, "I could really need some warm words."

Henry cleared his throat, "I don't know what to say," he said honestly, "I've told you so much already."

She looked at him waiting for more.

"This isn't the first time a guy breaks your heart, I have given you so much advice but now I no longer know what to say."

"You mean you're tired of consulting me?" She snapped.

Henry shook his head, "I just know that you won't listen to me anyways." She glanced at him with a raised eyebrow; he had never told her this. He had never put her back in her place. He had always been understanding and a good listener. But this was the first time he showed no real sympathy for her.

"I do listen," she mumbled crossing her arms.

"Oh yeah?" He said unconvinced, "doesn't seem so. If you listen why do you keep letting guys treat you like this?" Henry rolled up the windows, this time Mia didn't complain, "You’re asking if something is wrong with you?"

He looked at her from the corners of his eyes as he spoke, "well actually, you're just a little dumb." The tone of his voice showed that he wasn't intending to offend her, Mia knew how he meant it.

"You see prince charming in every dude you meet, but they aren't your princes. If you ask me they aren't even charming."

Mia moved her head with a sigh, she stared at the empty road as tears flowed down her face but at least she seemed to be listening.

"You want to be loved, I understand it, I mean...we're all looking for it. But you're a little too desperate, you believe everything these guys say. It's easy for them to break your heart. Because none of the things they say is true. Other girls wouldn't fall for everything."

"So…it's my fault." That was no question but a statement.

Henry wondered if he shouldn't have said these things, because her face just looked more pained than before.

"I am dumb," she mumbled, moving her eyes on her folded hands that were resting on her laps, her frown deepened pushing more tears down her face, "I am the dumbest girl on this planet."

"No…Mia-"

"You’re right," she sniffed, "but I can't turn this dumbness off. I think I will keep acting this way. I know how dumb I am- believe me I knew it way before everyone else did. But I will never be the independent girl, the girl who is lucky enough to find the right guy. I think I have to take a bite from every rotten apple until I find the fresh fruit."

"Mia, I didn't mean it like that."

Her shoulders rose as she took a deep breath, "how can we tell if one's actions are sincere? I don't know it, because I never met such a person whose intentions on me weren't bad."

"Tons of people around you don't mean to cause you pain," stated Henry, obviously meaning himself. But Mia failed to hear the obvious and just continued; "I think I am just realizing that I will never be happy."

Henry almost let go off the wheel to pull her in an embrace, he hated to see her in this condition and as the minutes passed, it became harder and harder for him to control himself. Damn all those guys who broke her heart, damn her parents who forced her into the public instead of loving her. Damn those tears that ruined this beautiful face and damn him!

"Happy?" She snorted, "I can't recall ever being happy." Her eyes moved to the night sky, "when you're drunk or high, you just think you're happy. But you're not. When you're with a guy, you never feel happy, no matter how hard you try."

"You…never felt happy with them?"

Mia shook her head, "I gave them all my love, but I hadn't seen much in return." She snickered suddenly; "so stupid, I am so fricken stupid."

"Mia," whispered Henry, "please, just try to quit all of this."

"Quit acting?" She asked with an amused expression, "then what else should I do, hmm? What could I possibly do? I don't have any other talents. I wouldn't even get a job at McDonalds."

"Why don't you trust yourself a little more?"

She tilted her head, "I don't trust anyone, remember?"

Very slowly, Henry shook his head, his eyes were fixed on the road, "what about…me?" He didn't look at her, he knew he would definitely lose control now.
Mia was quiet.

"Don't you trust me, Mia? You always say I am your best friend."

Her sigh was everything he heard, uh-oh this was no good sign. "Does it count as trust when I am scared of being let down by you?"

"No…" answered Henry.

"It's affection, isn't it?" Said Mia smiling wryly, " But I think I do trust you."

Henry bit his lower lip, affection? God, why did this simple word cause such nervousness inside him? And why did he feel sad when she said she trusted him? Was it because he knew he was going to let her down soon?

"But why are you asking?"

"You could do a lot more," mumbled Henry, "you do not trust yourself but you should at least trust me when I tell you that you're more than that, Mia. You have a unique personality. You just need to learn how to be independent."

"Could you talk like a friend not like a shrink?" Responded she.

"What do you want me to say then?" Said Henry annoyed.

"I want you to say that Riley is an ass, I want you to say how he is the worst person on this planet."

"Of course he is," said Henry, "but there are a lot of assholes out there. Do you want to deal with them whenever you run into one, or deal with your own business?"

Mia said nothing. She looked straight ahead wiping the tears away.

"Mia," Henry sighed, "you should know that not everyone has good intentions, not everyone wants to be your friend. So you got to be your own friend. For your own sake."

"I'm not that strong," she said, "I can't just ignore the idiots in my life and I can't just be as strong as others."

"Don't say that."

Mia pulled a grimace as her tear ducts opened again, "I don't have anyone. I will always be alone. This is my life, this is who I am." She took a deep breath, "and apparently I have to live with it."

"That's what I mean," mumbled Henry, "you're giving up too fast. Why are you dealing with this? Instead of moving on?"

"Because I am dumb, Henry!"

He rolled his eyes, "you know I didn't mean it like that."

"I have enough," she mumbled. "I am so through with everything."

"Mia-"

"Please can you just shut up and drive me home?" She leaned her head against the door and closed her eyes. Alright, she didn't want to talk. And apparently she was in no condition to hear Henry out. So he stayed quiet and let Mia sleep. With a sigh, Henry shrugged his jacket off and covered Mia with it to keep the cold away, her face was turned away, but he could just imagine too well what  kind of expression she had... a pained one. He knew how disappointed she must be; she was through with all these idiots. But he also knew it wouldn't take long until Mia would fall for another idiot who would promise her the world but not even stay faithful.

How badly Henry wanted to help her and make the pain go away, but what could he do? He was going to quit and Mia wasn't the type of person who would follow his advice anyway.

All he could do was try to comfort her while he was still around. Maybe he shouldn't have called her dumb even if it was the truth.

Henry pulled up the driveway and killed the engine. Mia was still sleeping peacefully, the tears on her cheeks hadn't dried yet. Her face looked horrible, it expressed the deepest pain.

With a resigning sigh, Henry got out of the car and opened the door at Mia's side. He unbuckled the seat belt and took his jacket off her. Was she really asleep? Wondered Henry, or did she just pretend to be asleep so she wouldn't have to talk to him? "Mia, we're home." He whispered but received no answer. Henry knelt down biting his lips, he was going to wake her if he carried her inside. But she shouldn't stay in the car either. As he studied her face he felt a warm feeling in his chest, okay the smeared make up, the tear drenched face and the mess that he would usually refer to as 'hair' looked bad. But her pale skin still shimmered softly in the moonlight. Her plumb, red lips still seemed to smile a little. And her soft, shallow breath sounded like the sweetest music to him. What if he kissed her now? Maybe she wouldn't notice since she was asleep. He would get to kiss her once, hadn't he always wished for that? Didn't he deserve at least one, small kiss?

He had always imagined what it would be like when his lips would touch hers. How would her lips taste? Or her skin? Would she run her fingers through his hair and sigh happily? Would he get to kiss her neck or touch her chest…?

Henry blinked, snap out of it! How desperate could a guy get? Just these simple thoughts made his body react awkwardly strong. It wasn't right. Mia always thought guys just wanted her body not her heart. Of course Henry loved her; everything about her. But he couldn't deny that he wanted to touch her. He wanted to love her, physically and of course mentally.

He stood up again and took a deep breath. He averted his gaze from her chest and fixed it on her closed eyes as he lifted her up. Careful not to wake her, he walked towards the big house. It was a little difficult to open the door with Mia in his arms, but it wasn't the first time he had to carry a sleeping or totally wasted Mia inside. He knew the house and where her messy bedroom was.

He slowly sneaked inside and placed her on her bed. Henry pulled the blanket over her, took her shoes off and put them next to the bed. This woman will be the death of me thought Henry with a sigh and sat on the mattress's edge. She looked so peaceful now but also so vulnerable. How many more times will she have to deal with those assholes until she finds someone who knows how to treat her? "Only I know who you really are," muttered Henry and stood up. Yes, only he knew her. But he wasn't good enough. He was just a driver, just the errand boy. What could he give a girl that's used to have everything?

She would never see him this way.

He spun around and glanced over his shoulder one last time; startled eyes stared back at him. A fresh load of tears ran down her cheeks. Crap, had she just heard what he said?

"I'm sorry," she whispered.

"About what?" Said Henry with a smile and patted her head, "there's nothing you have to apologize for."

"There is, I shouldn't have yelled at you like that. That's not the way you should treat your friend." The look in her eyes, warmed Henry's heart. He smiled tenderly and stroke the hair off her forehead. She was actually just a little girl who was given too much freedom. What if she just needed to grow up?

"I am always so moody when I drink, or when some guy breaks my heart," she made a pause, "so actually, I am moody seven days a week."

Henry tilted his head, the warm smile was still on his lips, "everyone has the right to be in a bad mood from time to time."

"Don't my mood swings annoy you?"

He shrugged, "You're paying me for it."

Mia laughed knowing it was just a joke, "I don't know what I would do without you."

Again his heart felt a nice warmth spread, but this feeling didn't last long. Because Mia was soon going to find out what it would be like without him. "What is it?" She asked as she saw his features freeze, "is everything okay?"

With a twitch in his face, he snapped out of his thoughts and glanced back at Mia. His hand was on her cheek but she didn't seem to mind. He loved how soft her skin felt and how it seemed to heat his cold hand. "I just thought about something."

"About what?"

Henry cleared his throat, "uh…just that you should sleep now." He stood up and patted his pockets to make sure his house keys were with him. But before he could move away, Mia's hand gripped his wrist, "wait," she said, "I want to ask you something."

"What?" Asked Henry without turning around. It was too painful to see her face now. He needed to leave so he could prepare for tomorrow...when he'd quit.

"Earlier, you said you want to tell me something, what is it? I'm curious."

"Nothing," mumbled Henry, "we can discuss it tomorrow."

"Henry?" She raised a brow and sat up, "Is something going on?"

"No," he said with a sigh.

"Why aren't you looking at me?"

He spun around reluctantly but didn't meet her eyes, "It's nothing, really."

"Henry," she said again.

He bit his lower lip loving the tone of her voice when she called his name. He would miss this sweet voice so much!

"If there's something wrong, you can tell me. Do you need money? You know that you can always ask me for some."

He shook his head, "No, no it's not that."

She tilted her head with a worried frown. How nice it was, she worried about him. But that wouldn't change a thing no matter how much it touched him.

She patted the bed implying he should sit down. "I should really go now," he mumbled feeling uncomfortable.

She patted it again not listening to what he said.

"Whatever you're dealing with right now, I can help you." She said with a warm smile, "I know it's not easy to deal with me but you always helped me when I needed you…” she made a pause, “so now, I will help you."

"I don't need your help and besides I helped you because you paid me for it," he said harshly.

Mia was silent for a moment, "then at least tell me what bothers you."

"Nothing bothers me," he stood up again and took a few steps, "what time do you need me tomorrow?" Mia glanced at the alarm clock on her nightstand, "ten?" Henry's eyes followed to the alarm clock which read 3:00 a.m.

"Alright," he said and spun around.

"Henry!" a strange thudding sound followed her voice, "damn shoes!" He spun around and saw her on the floor, that drunkard stumbled over her high heels in the dark. "Are you okay?" He asked alarmed and ran towards her. "Those stupid, fucking, damn shoes!"

Henry had to snicker, "it's not the stupid, fucking, damn, shoes fault, but yours. Why do you even get up when you're this drunk?"

Her nose crinkled as she rubbed her foot, "I am perfectly sober! Did you put these here?"

"I did, why?"

"Then it's your fault."

Henry snickered again, he could still see her face despite this darkness. She looked too cute.

"What's so funny?"

"You are," responded he with an amused expression.

"Shut up."

He laughed even louder, "you're just so clumsy."

"Henry Steiner shut your mouth!" She yelled with a red face.

"No Mia Parker," he snickered.

She stood up, "move your butt over here so I can kick it!"

"In that drunk stupor of yours, you're more likely to kick you own butt."

"Okay," she said, "that's it." She rushed forward trying to kick him but he just jumped to the side and almost caught her to run against the wall. "You," she grumbled embarrassed. His laughter echoed through the whole house. She ran after him again but this time he just calmly walked to the back of the room. He grinned as he stood behind her bed, "you won't get me."

"We will see about that!" She snapped and jumped on her mattress. Her water bed moved and shook her body around until her legs gave in and she fell back down. But before she fell on the mattress, she gripped the next thing her hands could reach and pulled her friend down with her.

"Ow," growled Henry but snickered again as he laid next to her, "are you planning on killing us?"

"What kind of death would that be?" She mumbled and sat up, "don't ever make fun of me again."

As he laughed again she slapped his shoulder until he raised his palms, "okay, okay I surrender."

With a happy grin she laid back down not moving her eyes off Henry. "Stay here tonight, okay?"

"Wh…what?"

Mia grinned amused. She could tell his face blushed the deepest red. She wondered if he misunderstood her. "No...Uh…it’s cool, I'll go home now."

"Isn't my bed comfortable?"

Henry gulped and sat up, "you're drunk, Mia."

"I told you, I am perfectly sober."

"But…but…"

She raised a brow with a sly smile, "yeah?"

His eyes tried to focus on everything but her sexy smile. He knew if he stayed here he wouldn't be able to control himself. But why did she ask him to stay? She does NOT want to sleep with me, no. She is just drunk and also lonely, maybe I should just stay here until she falls asleep. As his eyes fell on the alarm clock, he had a better idea. He sat up and looked at her; his cool smile was back. "Wash your face and get dressed."

"Huh?"

"Didn't you want to see the shower?"

She followed his eyes to the clock, "I did…" she mumbled confused, "but I thought you don't want to go."

Henry shrugged, "changed my mind, come on and hurry. I know where we can watch it."

He didn't have to tell her twice. She jumped up and staggered to the bathroom. While she was washing up, Henry waited in the car cursing himself an idiot. Why did he do this? She needed rest, and he needed to be alone. How was he supposed to tell her that he was going to quit? His thoughts were disrupted as the actress ripped the door open and smiled at him. She wore normal jeans, sneakers and a sweatshirt. There was no make-up on her face and her hair was still wet. Henry had to smile; if Mia was no actress, she would probably look like this every day. She would just be a girl with a happy smile on her lips, no make-up on and without any uncomfortable, expensive designer dresses that no normal human being would wear. This was nothing but her natural look, but she was pretty. She was even beautiful.

"Seat belt?" He said and started the engine.

"Where will we watch it?"

"My uncle owns a cabin in the forest. It's pretty dark there and offers a great sight."

"Does he just let you go there?"

Henry shrugged with a pout, "he won't mind."

The streets were surprisingly empty as they drove out of the city. Henry had actually expected more people to stay up and watch the shower. But maybe they were already at the darkest spots the city could offer. He hoped they would make it in time. It was 3:30 already. Mia would surely be disappointed if the shower began while they were still driving.

The woman on the seat next to him had a strange smile on her lips. Just a few hours ago she had cried over her ex-boyfriend and her broken heart. And now she smiled like everything was alright, was she really this excited to see a meteor shower? Just so that she could make a wish? Yes, in some ways she is still a naive kid, thought Henry with a shrug and focused back on the road.

The stars were bright in the dark sky. As they drove out of the loud city, Henry could feel a weird calmness spread inside him.

He often drove Mia around in the middle of the night. But in some ways this felt like a couple taking a spontaneous trip. Henry cleared his throat as the memory of Mia's bed popped back into his mind, why had she asked him to stay? Was there a message behind it? No, that couldn't be. She was just dumped by Riley and he knew Mia may be a lot, but she was definitely no slut.

"Mia?"

"Hm?" She hummed without moving her gaze from the sky.

"Why did you ask me to stay?" He knew that the answer would sort of disappoint him. But he just had to ask.

Mia's eyes fell on him, with an amused expression she said: "why do you think I wanted you to stay?"

Couldn't she just answer instead of asking another question? "Well uh…you felt lonely? I mean you wanted …" no, what was he saying? He didn't mean lonely as in she needed someone to sleep with. Did she misunderstand him now?
"You wanted to know that someone is there when you fall asleep?"

The smile left her face; "maybe, but I felt that I didn't want to leave you alone."

"Me?" He asked surprised.

"Yeah, you…you may not admit it, but something is bothering you. I just know you too well, Henry. You can't hide that from me."

Henry didn't know what to answer to that. So, he said nothing and stepped down on the gas pedal.

A long moment of silence passed, Mia's voice pulled Henry out of his deep thoughts; "It's starting!" She said astonished and pointed at the sky. Henry glanced up for a moment and smiled; he had to admit the view was amazing. The little white lines could appear or disappear within the blink of an eye. He never really understood why people liked to make wishes during a meteor shower, but he was still happy he went to see it, it was beautiful. Just like the person next to him.

Mia looked absolutely happy and at ease.

"Five more minutes and we'll be at the cabin."

She nodded with a smile and then looked back up.

They drove into a deep forest on a muddy road. It was completely dark here, only the car's headlights spend some light. As they drove up a steep hill, Mia's eyes began to sparkle. She had never seen so many lights in the sky as she did that night. "Makes you feel so insignificant doesn't it? I mean if you consider how small you actually are in such a big world."

Henry snickered, "those are just meteors Mia, rocks flying around in space. No one makes such a big deal out of the rocks we find on our planet."

The woman shrugged, "because they don't glow that beautifully." The car drove to a clearing on top of the hill. The isolated cabin stood in the center of the clearing surrounded by tall oaks and pines.

Henry had to snap his fingers repeatedly until Mia moved her gaze to him, "we're at the cabin." He said with a smile and left the car.

It was just a small wooden building with two floors, Mia’s bedroom was probably bigger than the whole first floor.

"I know" said Henry. His gaze was on the ground with his hands in his pockets, "you're used to something more luxurious."

Mia shook her head, "No. I like it here."

With a wry smile, Henry nodded towards the cabin "let's go."

The furnishing was old and probably not used in ages. But there was something comforting about this place, Mia felt at home already, even if she had never been here before.

"Go outside, I'll get you a blanket." Said Henry and walked to the living room across the entrance.

"Got some drinks here?"

Henry stopped abruptly, "don't you think you had enough drinks tonight?"

Mia tilted her head, "just one glass."

"One glass of water."

"No," Mia's eyes fell on a shelve over the fireplace. "Whiskey." She chirped and grabbed the dusty bottle. "Come on, it's just half full. I'll get your uncle a new one."

"No Mia." Said Henry sternly.

But she didn't listen. With a shrug she opened the bottle and took a sip, "whoa, how old is this stuff?" Her eyes widened as she blew some dust off the bottle’s badge. "1979?"

Henry was about to say something, but before he could open his mouth Mia had already disappeared outside.

The old cabin was built at a small lake surrounded by talk oaks. Everything was calm and quiet, the darkness was perfect and caused the stars and meteors to glow lighter than ever before. Mia sat on the grass and took a deep breath. The air was so clean here without a trace of smoke or dust. It was just her and the nature. Mia stared at the sky, thinking that now was the time to make a wish. But what could she wish for? Would it be alright if she had more than just one wish?

She didn't want much, the only thing she longed for was basically what every other person on this world wanted; happiness. But happiness had many faces. Some saw it in money and wealth other in fame and success. Some saw it in love or family. Where did Mia see it? She didn't know.

When was the last time she had felt happiness?

"Amazing view isn't it?" Said Henry who was just walking towards her with a brown woolen blanket over his arm and two glasses in his hands.

"You're also drinking?" Asked Mia without moving her gaze.

"I can't resist old whiskey, but just one glass okay?" He sat down next to her and smiled. But as he saw her face, his features froze. Silent tears were streaming down her face. A frown appeared on Henry's face; he couldn't make her happy, thought he sadly. He actually hoped this little trip would cheer her up. But the wound on her heart was just too fresh. Of course she wouldn't forget about Riley within an instant, what was he thinking? Henry felt like a naive idiot. "What are you thinking about?" Said Mia who had noticed Henry's lost eyes.

He looked at her forcing a smile on his lips, "you're crying."

Apparently she hadn't even noticed the tears, she blinked her eyes repeatedly and sniffed, "oh." That almost sounded like embarrassment.

Henry leaned forward and gently wiped the tears away with his thump, if only he could do more than just wipe the tears away. If only he could find a way to make her happy.

As his finger touched her soft skin he felt his heart tremble. Why did he even touch her? Why wasn't he thinking? He leaned away and looked up, Mia was staring at him. But her eyes showed no surprise or disgust. Her blue eyes were strangely warm. "I'm okay, Henry."

He nodded wordlessly and poured some whiskey in a glass.

"Really," she laughed, "I am."

"Tears mostly indicate that one is not okay."

"Tears can also be a sign of happiness."

"Right," muttered Henry and looked back at the sky. The shower had reached its climax now. The meteors were quite big and bright. Some were so big that they could illuminate the whole lake for a few seconds.

"Time to make a wish," said Henry with a sad smile.

Mia sighed, "I made my wish already, and you?"

"I won't make a wish."

"Why not?"

"I don't believe in it."

She rolled her eyes with a smile, "then I will make a wish for you."

"And what will you wish for?"

Mia shook her head, "can't tell you."

"But it's my wish, I should at least know what it is." Mia slightly pushed his shoulder, "then make the wish yourself. But if my wish for you comes true, I will let you know what I wished for."

Henry said nothing. How long was he going to keep this pretense up? It was time to tell her the truth. Mia took a sip from her whiskey, she closed her eyes and smiled.

Her pale arms were shivering so Henry picked up the blanket covered Mia’s shoulders. She didn't move as she felt him come closer but her eyes opened and fell on his poker face. How good he was at hiding his emotions, but that was also his own trap; acting like he didn't care about her newest outfit or he wasn't moved at all when she introduced her newest boyfriend, were attempts that always failed pathetically.

Henry was good at keeping his poker face up but he could never control his eyes. His eyes never lied.

Secretly Mia wished for more attention from him, she didn't wish it from the stars since she didn't even admit it to herself. But she was used to receiving the fullest attention from a guy who was into her. But Henry wasn't like that. He was a gentlemen, he wasn't burdening her with his emotions knowing how she would think of it. However, Mia knew Henry wasn't like other men, just trying to get into her pants. He was honest and kind, helpful and sweet. But why did she sometimes wish for him to be...sweeter? Or to show more of his emotions?

With a sigh she shrugged that question off, who cared if he gave her more attention or not? He would never make a move on her because he respected her.

There weren't many guys like him so Mia should be grateful to have him in her life.

"I wasn't crying because I am sad." Said she after a long while.

Henry raised his brows, "you weren't?"

"No," she replied shaking her head, "I am happy." As she had asked herself, when she had last been happy, she realized that moment was now. She was happy, not even thinking about the paparazzi or Riley. She was just happy.

"You…are?" Said Henry, not believing a word.

But Mia nodded, "I am, thanks to you."

"Huh?"

She looked at him with a smile, "thanks Hen, you're always there for me. You even drove out here with me so I could make a wish."

"You…you're welcome," he mumbled wondering if maybe the whiskey was too old.

"You know what I figured?" She said and looked at the sky again, "I don't need a meteor shower. I got my own meteor."

Yep, there was definitely something in the whiskey.

"Uh…perhaps we should go inside."

"It's you," said Mia ignoring his words. "You are my meteor, you make the wishes that I didn't even know I had, come true." She leaned closer until her head was on his shoulder. This wasn't unusual, how many times had she cried in his arms? But never before she had smiled and said she was happy thanks to him, not to mention the sudden contact between her head and his shoulder when she was fine. Henry gulped and tried to calm his breath. He wanted nothing more but to kiss hear head, pat her back and tell her he will always try to make her happy. But he knew he couldn't do that- it wasn't possible. "Mia," Henry spoke through gritted teeth.

"Hm"

"What I wanted to talk about…uhm…"

She snuggled closer to his shoulder.

"I want to quit." He finally said. Mia's body stiffened within an instant. She leaned away, "quit? Quit what?" Her lower lip trembled as she spoke.

Henry looked at his glass, "the job," he mumbled lowly.

"What?! Why?" Her smile was gone and a deep frown settled on her forehead, "is it the pay? Do you need more money? Henry you know that's not a probl-"

"No, it's not the money." He said softly.

"Another car? Uh…more free days? I can arrange-"

"No Mia, please I just want to quit."

The blanket fell on the grass as she stood up with a tilted head, "I am sorry about what I said earlier, you know…the paparazzi and Riley... that was just too much for me. I didn't mean to be such a bitch."

Finally Henry glanced up, his forehead creased, "it's not about that either."

"Then what is it Henry?"

"I just want to quit."

Mia sat back down and wound her arms around her knees, "why? Wait, listen I could need a new manager…Wendy is nice but she totally doesn't get me…the pay is even better and I will find a new driver in no time."

"I don't want to be your manager."

"Okay, uh body guard?"

Henry shot up, "don't you get it Mia? I want to quit working as your driver! I don't want to work for you anymore."

Confusion and sadness made up her face, Henry hated himself. She had been so happy just a short moment ago and now he was doing this to her. He really was the worst.

"You are mad at me aren't you?"

"See? This is what I mean! When people leave you, you always blame yourself never the others. You're not always at fault you know that?"

Silence. She stood before him, the shower's light illuminating her face and pained features.

"Why?" She breathed, "why do you want to leave?"

"Please don't ask me that," said Henry with a sigh.

"But I am asking you!"

"I can't tell you!"

"Why not!" She yelled while the tears streamed down her face.

"Mia, I…" his voice was just a shaking whisper. He hated to see her cry, he hated to see her eyes so sad and to hear a voice with so many questions. He had no idea how to respond nor how to act. He didn't want to leave but he knew he had to. Henry would never get over her, never forget this terrible pain in his heart that would stay as long as he was with her. "Why did you hire me?" He said fisting his hands.

Mia blinked her tears away, where did that come from? "What?!"

"You didn't know me back then, so tell me. Why did you hire me?"

Henry looked away as she took a step forward, her tears hadn't even dried before another one rolled down her cheek. She almost seemed annoyed as she whipped it away. "Why are you suddenly asking me that? Didn't you hear me? Why do you want to leave me?"

Leave me. That sounded like he was breaking up with her. "Tell me," said Henry.

"Will you answer my question if I answer yours?"

Henry said nothing , Mia sighed annoyed and turned her back to him. "So I walk down a street in the middle of the night. Eric had just dumped me and I was about to lose it. I didn't even know where I was going. Hell," She sniffed, "I didn't know what I was doing. Anything could've happened to me. Some guys could've attacked and r…." she cleared her throat. "But then you came up, in that shitty, old car. You didn't know who I was but even if I was just a 'normal' person most men would've tried to take advantage of me. Yet you" Finally she faced him again. "You weren't like that. You were kind and helpful, polite and friendly. You just wanted to get me out of this dangerous place. So, I knew it."

Henry frowned, "knew what?"

"That I had to see you again to keep you by my side. I needed you around. All my life I had never met someone as kind and helpful as you and those aren't just empty words Henry, you are…my anchor, you are what keeps me alive. You are…" she had to laugh and pointed at the sky, "my meteor. Remember?"

Mia hoped those words would make him come back to his senses. She couldn't believe that he wanted to leave her. It was just not possible, how was she supposed to go on without his support? Mia was absolutely scared, it was just a question of time until some new scandal about her filled the newspapers. Or until some other jerk dumped her. If Henry wasn't around, she would cut back on drugs, she would sleep with any guy who just came too close just to be dumped the morning after.

"I may not show it all the time, but Henry I need you."

His eyes were wide and his lips quivered .This hurt, every word she said, felt like a rock on his heart. Now it was harder than ever to control himself; how badly he wanted to hold her and kiss those tears away. But no, he couldn't lose it, he was so close to finally freeing himself.

"I will help you find a new driver." Said Henry and cleared his throat.

"I don't want another driver, I want you!"

"I'll sleep on the couch, wake me when you want to go home."

Henry spun around fighting back the tears and walked inside. But Mia was after him already, she caught his wrist and pulled him back. "Is it because…" could she say it? Could she really declare his pretense game lost?

"Is it…because of your feelings?"

Henry pulled his arm away and squeezed his eyes shut. Damn it, she knew. But how? He never made a move on her, never even flirted with her. He had definitely underestimated her.

"Henry?" She said in a heart breaking sweet voice, "will you look at me?"

He spun around reluctantly, his eyes on the ground. Something about him reminded Mia of a little boy who was caught doing something he shouldn't have done. It was a strange sight, Henry was always  quite a confident man, never shy or intimidated. Now, she almost felt bad for saying it.

"Is that why you want to quit?"

Finally he looked at her, now it was him who looked pained. Henry knew there was no longer a point in hiding the truth, since she already knew about his feelings. "Isn't it obvious?" He breathed, "this is really hurting me, Mia."

He wanted to walk away but she held onto his wrist again. Her arms wound around his neck as she pulled him into a tight embrace, "I beg you don't leave me." She whispered in his ear.

His earlobe turned red as her warm breath gently stroke his neck.

"I'm sorry," he said and gulped, "I have to."

"If I felt that way for you, would you stay?" Why did she sound hopeful?

"But you don't" said the man and gently pushed her away. He even forced a smile on his lips in order not to hurt her more, "and I don't hold it against you."

"But…how come you can't even be my friend? Why don't you want so me anymore?"

"Do you think I didn't try? I've been trying for five years Mia, and I am tired! Do you think I want to spend five more years watching you getting hurt by those damn idiots?" He shook his head, "no Mia, eventually I have to consider myself more. I can't stand this anymore. I can't see you anymore, because I am hurt when you are hurt. I am sad when you are sad." He bit his lower lip, "I don't know about you, but I want to be happy for once!"

Mia sniffed, "I was perfectly happy five minutes ago. Because you made me happy! Don't you get it? When you're around I am not as fragile, I am not as vulnerable."

"You are strong Mia even without me!"

Mia glanced up, his eyes did still not lie. They displayed all the love and all the passion he held for her. She was completely stunned by his gaze and butterflies filled her stomach.

"I am not," she muttered averting her gaze. "But now I just realize how hard it must have been for you. I am sorry, but I need you!"

Henry shook his head, "Mia, you don't need me."

"Yes I do!" She yelled, "How am I supposed to go on without the only person who loves me?!"

"Mia," Henry took a step back letting his eyes wander over the ground, "you're loved by many people."

She narrowed her eyes, "my team loves me for my money, men love me for my body and fame and the fans love the people I display in movies. But no one loves the true me- Mia the fickle, spoiled, noisy girl. No one does…" her lip quivered again, "no one but you!"

She sank down onto the floor and sobbed, "and now I drive you away, can't I make anything right?" She pressed her hand on her chest. It hurt, it hurt way too much.

"Mia!" Henry rushed forward he took her hands and knelt down, "you're blaming yourself, again! Blame me! Okay? Tell me I am an ass. Tell me I am selfish, the worst person ever."

Mia sniffed shaking her head, "I am the selfish person here! I knew about your feelings long enough, I should've been more sensitive! I should've considered your emotions." Henry hugged her feeling his tear ducts open too.

"I am so sorry," she sobbed into his shirt, "forgive me for being this awful person, please Henry."

He sniffed cursing the tears than ran down his face, "Mia…I…" he couldn't talk.

It was too much the pain had to leave his body. He needed some air to breathe some space to drop the rocks off his heart. Maybe she would have loved him, if she was just Mia. The girl with sneakers and jeans on and if he was just Henry the mechanic.

Who'd pick her up from her house, drive her to a pizza restaurant in his old car Carrie. Take her to a bar and hang with his friends. That was all he wanted, but that wasn't ever going to happen.

Both held each other so tight like they wanted to become one. Mia almost ran out of air, but that was good. At least she could silence her pitiful sobs now. Hearing Henry cry broke her heart, she had been so stupid; why did she ignore his feelings? Why hadn't she been more sensitive? She had done something she never wanted to do, which was hurt her best friend. He was in pain because of her, he, the person who had always given all his effort to make her happy. Henry, who would go anywhere for her, do anything for her. Henry, the only person who loved her. Why did society always draw a line between love and friendship? Wasn't it the same in most ways? When you lose your best and truest friend, it's like you lose a part of yourself. You miss having no one to talk to, no one to turn to when times get rough. You can't share the newest jokes with him anymore, can't make him laugh. You can't say something stupid on purpose just to see how he would react. She would never see his amused smirk when she tripped on her expensive high heels again. Never again, she would hear his throaty laugh, or  see his nose crinkle when she spoke about other guys.

Never see his frown when she asked him to drive around in the rain. Never see his sleepy but handsome face when he brought her burgers at five in the morning. All of these things, would never happen again. This moment was the worst; Mia just started to realize that Henry, who she had always taken for granted, was the most important person in her life. He wasn't just her driver or errand boy. He was her meteor, he was everything. "You aren't fickle, spoiled and noisy. You are kind, generous, funny and smart. Even if you don't show it," mumbled he absent minded, "you are beautiful even with sweat pants on and wet hair. But the most beautiful thing about you is when you smile and you really mean it." His voice was thick with tears.

With red, wide eyes she pulled away and took his face in her hands. His hazel-brown eyes gave her the puppy look, she wiped another tear away with her thump feeling her heart skip a beat. She had been so blind. How could she be so blind?

Maybe, there was a line between friendship and love, but if there was. Mia had already crossed it. With a bewildered expression her eyes bored into his while she held his face and stroke his cheeks. Nothing but their heart beats were audible in the peaceful silence. Mia's breath grew louder, her eyes looked for another place to settle on but like magnets, they were pulled back to Henry. Whose intense stare sent shivers down her spine. Were her eyes giving her away? What was going on? Mia bit her lips wondering if this was just a temporary confusion, caused by the whiskey and her mixed up emotions.

Henry's eyes fell on those full lips. Couldn't she leave the biting to him? His shoulders rose and fell, he was going crazy being this close to her. Why did she even let him? Why was she holding his face? And why didn't she let go? He couldn't hold back much longer, why was she doing this to him? Didn't he know how hard it was for him not to kiss her now? This was torture.

Mia was amazed by the sparkling eyes. Much more amazed than by the meteor shower. There was desire in his eyes mixed with warmth and love that made her crazy. Holding his face and stroking his cheek wasn't enough anymore. She didn't even know what she was doing, her mind shut off completely as her head leaned forward and her eyes closed.

Henry held his breath as Mia's pursed lips touched his. He couldn't describe but what he felt right now was like an animal that had been kept in a cage was finally set free. His caged up feelings erupted like a volcano. His arms pulled her closer while his lips responded to her kiss. Her lips were just like he imagined; soft and spicy, sweet and daring. His lips covered every corner of her mouth and swallowed her soft sighs. Mia's hands gripped his hair while her chest crushed against his. She had never felt such a sensation before. How many guys had she kissed so far? No one could compare to Henry's lips. Her skin was covered in goose bumps and her heart jumped up to her throat. She pulled him closer and closer, but nothing seemed close enough. As Henry sucked her upper lips she didn't care about the consequences anymore. She had always known how he loved her; but the way he showed it right now, made every doubt go away. Mia's hands left his hair and stroke his back tracing invisible patterns down his spine. He felt a shiver when their tongues touched and began to dance with each other. They pulled away for a moment to catch their breaths and to look into each other’s eyes again. Henry's gaze was warm and gentle. Mia felt safe just by looking at him, no one had ever made her feel this way. It was just like she was coming home to a home she hadn't known before. Henry stood up,  grabbed Mia's hands and pulled her up. He was completely amazed by what had just happened. He had wanted this for so long and he wanted more. But he also knew he shouldn't push her. She may misunderstand him and he didn't want to hurt her. She should never think he was only playing with her. Because he would never go that far, he would never want to play with her feelings. He knew Mia wouldn't be Mia without her character. She had a sexy and beautiful body. But her real beauty came from the inside and he wanted her to know that. A small smile crossed her lips, she stepped closer just to press a quick kiss on his lips. His arms held her back while he lowered his gaze to her eyes. He couldn't deny that he wanted more. It was hard to resist her especially now after they kissed! But he couldn't forget his manners, he knew it would be wrong.

Mia's hands were on his nape playing with his hair, her other hand stroke his cheek which made not only him feel great. Sharing gentle touches was always something she had dreamt off. She wanted it gentle, just for once she wanted to feel loved not used. And Henry's kiss just made her wish come true. Henry may have still tried to be reasonable and think straight, but Mia was already completely lost in the warm look of his eyes. Now that she felt his love, she didn't want to let go. She knew she would freeze without his warmth. Her heart would die, her world would be shattered. Why hadn't she seen that before?

Her eyes moved down, she took his hand and slowly pulled him inside the house...

 

They didn't bother to turn the lights on. Even the door that lead to the lake stayed open. Very quietly, they walked to the bedroom, holding hands fingers entwined and eyes never leaving each other. Henry's heart jumped to his throat as they reached the bedroom. The starlight shone through the windows illuminating Mia's pink cheeks. For minutes, they just stood there feeling the intimacy of their eye contact. His fingers stroke hers while her gaze send all the love she had to his eyes.

But this gaze also made Henry nervous; Mia had been with so many guys and regretted each of them. What if she regretted this with him too? He didn't want her to blame herself again, he knew that if he still planned to quit. He should stop now. But he couldn't find his voice; it was like Mia's kiss had swallowed it. As she looked at Henry with that certain spark of passion in his eyes, she could feel her knees shake. So that was it? This was the feeling of love? How long had she longed for this? For such a closeness and joy. Now, she finally felt it and planned to enjoy every bit of it. She slowly took a step closer and wound her arms around his neck, she loved his masculine smell and the muscles she felt under his shirt. His hands came to her back but there was some stiffness in them, what was he waiting for? He should kiss her just like had a few seconds ago.

"Mia?" His voice was just a whisper but warm and gentle. She pulled away to look at him, his eyes were on the ground, "look...you don't have to do this...we can wait...I-"

She silenced him with a kiss. She had waited long enough, she was tired of waiting. She wanted him; she wanted to feel his love. It took Henry just a second to comprehend the meaning of this kiss. She trusted him and she wanted this. What would follow later didn't matter now, Henry knew he couldn't resist any longer. He needed her. He wanted every part of her to feel his love.

Finally Henry responded to her kiss, he pulled her closer and parted his lips. With a little more haste his tongue made its way into her mouth caressing hers. She stifled a soft sigh as he slowly turned her around and gently pushed her down onto the bed. His heart skipped a beat as he felt her under him, her arms stroke his back and arms while their kiss became faster and more passionate. A low groan escaped his mouth as he pressed his torso against hers. The feeling of her chest aroused him. Mia's hands traveled under his shirt now, telling Henry she was ready to go further. As her cold hands touched his abs he groaned again feeling hot sparks under his skin. His mouth left hers, moving to her jawline and her neck. He licked and sucked her soft skin loving the taste of it. Mia rewarded him with a soft moan. It drove him crazy, he couldn't wait any longer.

His hands left her waist and began to pull up her shirt. The soft skin of her stomach felt hot, his hands moved under it until he reached her chest. With a low sigh he raised his head. Their eyes locked as his hand made contact with her breast. Mia's heart skipped a beat, as his fingers caressed her chest while he pressed a kiss on her forehead to reassure her that he loved Mia, not Mia's body. Or at least not only her body.

Both quickly got rid of their clothes and scattered them around the room. Henry's hand stroke her cheek while he kissed her lips once more and let his mouth travel down her body. He tasted, licked and sucked her soft skin that had the smell or roses. His hands pressed her on the mattress while she raised her hip and limbs. She wasn't able to be still, this sensation she felt; made her blood boil and a warm shivers run down her spine.

Finally, Henry's face was back over hers. He gripped her hands the moment he entered her body. Mia moaned with her eyes squeezed shut. She bit her lower lip as he gently moved in and out of her. His eyes were on her face the whole time. He kissed her lips and pressed his chest back on hers to feel her skin again. Mia let go of his hands and wound her arms around his neck. His thrusts became faster and shorter. He embraced her again and kissed  her lips before a groan left his mouth and he began to shiver. He sighed and covered his face in her shoulder, heavily panting, he took her hands again and stroke her fingers. Once he regained his ability to move, he raised his head with a loving smile but froze as he saw something sparkling on her cheek. "Mia," he breathed, "have I hurt you?" Her eyes met his ,"you haven't." Henry kissed her tears away. "Will you stay with me now?" She whispered sadly.

Henry blinked feeling his heart cringe. She had slept with him to make him stay? Not because she loves him back? "Mia...you..." Henry felt an extreme rush of anger. Not with Mia but with himself. Now he had just used her too, hadn't he? A heavy lump filled his throat. He sat on the edge of the bed, covering his face in his hands. Why was this happening? He had been so happy just a few minutes ago and now? His happiness was shattered and his heart breaking.

"Henry?" Mia sat up touching his shoulder but he shook her hands off.

"You shouldn't have let this happen then, you should've stopped me." He mumbled with a thick voice. "Why?" Mia's forehead creased, "why should I have stopped this?"

Henry faced her with a pained face, "why? Do you think I would've slept with you just for the sake of having sex? I...I...I thought you..." he averted his gaze shaking his head, "do you see this as some kind of service? You let me sleep with you so I'll still be your driver? Mia! I don't want to even kiss you if you don't feel that way! I...I"

"Shh," she shushed him wiping a tear from his face, "you misunderstand me. I want you to stay in my life! I don't care who you work with, as long as I know, that I get to see you," she took his hand, "and be with you."

The angry grimace left Henry's face. "Wh...what?"

She smiled tilting her head, "I cried because...I feel so dumb. All this time I have been complaining about men, about being lonely. About having no one to share my life with. But there was someone, the whole time." She stroke his cheek and pressed a soft kiss on his lips, "I am so dumb Henry, all this time. I was looking for a rock not knowing that there was a meteor right with me."

Henry's lips quivered, "what are you saying?"

Another tear streamed down Mia's face, "I am happy now. I am happy that there's someone I can trust and depend on. Someone who gives me all I need. Which is love."

Her hands held his face , a smile he had never seen before appeared on her lips, "I think I finally understood what I had not known for years. Henry...I think I am in love with you."

Henry's heart almost boasted from happiness, hearing those words come out of Mia's mouth, was something he never expected to happen. Yet she was here, looking more beautiful than ever , saying those divine words. "You?" He raised a brow, "a...are you sure?"

"Have some confidence." She snickered, wait. Mia snickered? "Is it so hard for you to believe that someone could love you?" She laid back down pulling Henry with her.

"It's hard to believe that you do."

Mia's hand traveled up and down Henry's chest. "I'll prove it to you then." Henry glanced at her with a raised brow, "Mia it’s not that...I mean suddenly you..."

"I always knew about your feelings, but I wasn't sure about mine. Explains all my ex-boyfriends." She snickered, "but now that...that you mentioned leaving me...I realized it all."

Henry closed his eyes, "sorry about that."

"I should actually thank you." She rested her head on his chest and took his hand, "if you still don't believe me. Then just let me date you and I will prove it."

Henry's arm pulled her closer, he pressed a kiss on her forehead and sighed. "There's nothing else I want. But...you're an actress."

"I will date whoever I want," she sat up and looked at Henry, "why don't we just stay here for a while? Hmm? I can cancel my other plans and I have nothing going on next week. Let's just stay here and enjoy the time alone."

"Are you sure you want that?" Asked Henry who didn't know whether he should be alarmed or happy. Mia nodded, "I know that I need some practice with relationships. But I am sure you'll help me with that."

"You don't need practice."

Mia grinned and pressed a kiss on his cheek, "am I doing well so far?" Henry sighed, "you are but..." he was silenced by her thump she had pressed on his lips. “I know how this must all seem to you, but Henry...”she averted her gaze and almost looked sad. "I no longer want to be without the love that you've given me."

"You're a celebrity Mia, you're famous and always chased by Paparazzi I am just...the errand boy." Mia sighed never leaving her hands off his face, "you're more than that. You're the first person who made me this happy."

A part of Henry heard what Mia said, another part didn't. How long had he longed for those words? How long had he wanted to be the man who holds her in his arms? That moment had now arrived, but it didn't feel real. At first, he needed to digest what had happened. First she threw a fit in the car, then they cried in each other’s arms, then, he got to feel the love he always wanted to feel and now he found himself confronted with reality.

Mia looked so beautiful in the moonlight, with her black hair covering her naked breasts and her hand holding his face. She said she loved him! She wanted to be with him! That was all he wanted, but could they make it? Could Henry make her happy?

"What is it?" Asked Mia who didn't like the frown that was forming in Henry's face. He took her hands in his and kissed her palms, "you're used to everything, to luxury, to money and fame. This is your world not mine, I cannot give you these things."

"It is my world, but you can show me yours," she looked around the bedroom with a happy sigh, "and besides I like old cabins, they are so romantic."

"What about Riley? I thought you love him?"

Mia shrugged, "my love for him and you are worlds apart. I didn't love him, I thought I did but I was wrong."

Henry didn't answer, this was just too much for him. His lips longed for another kiss but he knew he should stay reasonable now.

"Listen, who knows what will come? But you can't get rid off me, now that I know about my heart I cannot let go. And I will not! I am willing to give my world up if that'll make you stay with me."

"But I would never ask you for that."

"I know," said Mia, "we will find you a different job if you want, but I want us to be together. I have to make you happy after all."

Henry raised a brow, "you do?"

"Yes, that was my wish for you. To make you happy."

Finally Henry smiled, "that's sweet of you."

"I know," Mia snickered, "you made me completely happy. Now I have to repay my debt. What do you say?"

What more could he say? Screw the doubts and the sorrows. All this time he loved no one but Mia, he knew it wasn't going to be easy but he was willing to stay with her, no longer as her driver. But as her boyfriend.

"Will you be my meteor then?"

Henry snickered, “I didn’t know you could be this corny.”

“Excuse me?” Replied Mia with a fake hurt expression, “you shall see what corny is.” With a giggle she threw her arms around him and pushed him onto the mattress. She kissed his lips with a happy smile, “if I knew this would’ve happened, then you could’ve as well stayed at my place.” She winked, “remember? I have a water bed.”

THE END.