Another party at the Frat house, something that started to occur more and more regularly especially in the breaks during collage, and the convincing from both your sister, Anastasia, and your friend Lola.

The night was mostly spent mingling, with both Lola and Stassie passing you drinks left and right, and you downing them without a second thought.

Yet even in the cold, they’d all suggested to move outside and get started at a game of beer pong and with the tale being set up just opposite the sliding lass doors, capturing an almost clear view into the kitchen you decided to grab a few extra drinks, other than beer.

Henry’s gaze was not subtle, not anymore as it had gotten further into the night. Because when it came to you he could almost never tear his gaze away.

He stood with Nate and Robbie by the table, a drink in his hand as his eyes scanned through the half slid open glass doors, auburn eyes spotting you immediately through the small crowd in the kitchen.

Another guy about your height was clearly getting too close for comfort, Henry could tell by your slight backing away and your avoidance as you turned your back to the guy, clearly not interested. But he also clearly didn’t get the hint.

“I’ll be back in a minute.” Henry shoved his cup of beer into JJ’s grasp, not even worrying about spilling it or not as he made his way through the grips of people now gathered in the chilly garden.

“Where you going? Henry?” JJ’s voice came across as worried, since Henry wasn’t the type to go rising off like that unless something really did get a rise out of him.

“Hey, babe, I’ve been looking for you.” A firm voice cut right between the narrow space of you and the guy, now way too close for comfort. Yet he kept his voice respectful, just firm enough to set boundaries.

“Relax man,” The guy shoved a hand into his pocket, the other still holding his drink. “We were just talking.” He said, voice a little too cocky for Henry’s liking but he didn’t interfere physically, just stayed out between the two of you firmly.

“She’s not interested.” Henry spoke, no attitude, just a fact.

His hand moved carefully to rest on your lower back, but after letting himself glance over his shoulder at the guy who now grimaced, clearly annoyed, he moved to gently guide you away from the crowd and back into the garden, away from all the loud and drunk collage students. “You alright?”