Chapter 1
sighed and looked across the cafeteria where ’s cousin stood talking to . She looked amazing he thought. hair, eyes, and pouty red lips that just begged you to kiss them. She was short, only 5’2, and had a slender figure. People who met her for the first time often mistook her for a fragile little girl, much younger than her 25 years, but nothing could be further from the truth. was tough and not afraid to speak her mind.
sighed again but averted his eyes when sat down beside him, placing his tray loudly on the table. “This food looks poisonous, don’t you think?” exclaimed and poked at the lasagne with his fork. glanced at it. “Since when are you a vegetarian, ?” “Vegetarian?” replied. “Yeah, that’s the vegetarian lasagne. With spinach and stuff. Why didn’t you take the regular one?” “No wonder this thing looks poisonous then. I’ll be right back!” dashed off to pick up another plate of food and looked back over at . Something said made her laugh and sighed for a third time. Why couldn’t he tell her how he felt?
They had met for the first time back when Westlife started out. Back then was a short, mouthy 17 year old. They had been friends instantly, getting along like a house on fire. Since was in school and they travelled the world they didn’t meet each other that much but they kept in touch via mail and phone. had never ever viewed her as anything more that ’s cousin and a good friend who just happened to be a girl.
That had changed on this last tour. was currently unemployed since the last company she worked for went bankrupt. had asked her if she didn’t want to come with them on this tour, just for fun, and like a vacation before she started to look for a new job. The more time spent with her made him realize that she wasn’t a little girl anymore, but a grown up woman with a fantastic personality and a gorgeous appearance. He still remembered the day he realized he wanted her as more than a friend, as a girlfriend.
*** Flashback 1 month ***
“, don’t do it, I beg you!!” squealed and desperately tried to wiggle free from the hold her had on her. “And why not? You pushed me in!” “I only did it because told me!” snorted “Yeah right, like you don’t have a mind of your own.” continued to wiggle as continued to carry her towards the pool. The same pool he’d just gotten up from after miss had pushed him in. After a quick run he’d caught her and was now carrying her towards the same destiny.
“But I’m still in my clothes!” tried to reason with him. “Don’t you have a bikini under those?” “Well yeah, but…” “Ok, then” cut her off, and then threw her in the pool.
She emerged only a second later, spluttering and coughing. “ !” She yelled and started to swim to the edge and heaved herself up. “I’m soaked!” started to laugh. “Well, you were just thrown into a pool full of WATER, . What did you expect?” She ignored and glared at . “I don’t like you.” “Pssh, I don’t like you either. You pushed me first!” squeezed the water out of her hair and replied. “I still maintain, I only did what told me to.” “And I still maintain that you have a mind of your own and I know you rarely do something you don’t want to.” “Yeah yeah, whatever. responded and took of her T-shirt. >BR>
dropped his chin. When had developed a body like that! Now she only had on a pair of jeans and a black bikini top. When she unsuccessfully tried to get out of her wet jeans whistled. “Damn girl, where have you hidden THAT body?” “Hey, that’s my little cousin you’re checking out, !” protested while flipped off. “Whatever mate, she’s hot and you know it. “Eww, she’s my cousin, do you think I see her that way? That’s disgusting!”
still couldn’t believe what he saw. had finally managed to get out of her jeans and was now only in her bikini. She had on a black one with a small top, only two triangles covering her breasts and strings holding it together. The bottom covered in the same fashion with strings holding rather small black fabric together. was right: She was hot!
He felt himself get hard at the sight of her and quickly picked up his towel, putting it in his lap to hide the fact. turned towards him with an eyebrow lifted. “You do realize that this isn’t the end of this, do you? I’m gonna get you back eventually!” opened his mouth to reply but realized that he was unable to utter a word. “Cat got your tongue, ?” laughed. looked at him and cleared his voice. “Nah, I was just thinking about something else” Yeah, how much I want to make love to ’s baby cousin. Man, would kill me if he knew.”
*** End flashback ***
Snapping back to present time he saw waving at him and smiling. He smiled back and she started to walk towards him. She had on a short black skirt and a black top with the word ‘groupie’ written in red. Whenever he saw her lately he grew hard and this wasn’t an exception. She kissed his cheek and then plopped down in the chair beside him.
“Hey honey. Are you excited for the show tonight? Yeah, he was excited alright. Just not for the show… “Yeah, Swedish fans are insane. It should be fun. Last time they almost pulled off the stage.” laughed. “Yeah, I heard. Wish I could have seen his face.” “Oh, I’m sure there are some pictures floating around on the internet if you wanna see.” He replied, trying to focus on something other than the way she looked and how good she smelled. Escadas’ Incredible Me if he remembered right. “I just might do that. It’s always fun to laugh at his expense.
At that moment came back with a new plate of food and sat down opposite . “Hey, cuz. Where did go?” “Elle wanted to talk to him about some wardrobe thing so he went with her.” “Where’s ?” “Do I look like I have a clue?” deadpanned. “Yes” replied and stuck his tongue out at her. turned to and placed her hand on his thigh. “, help me. ’s being mean!” She shot him a puppy look and pouted. gulped and glanced down in his lap. Two inches to the side and she’d feel the effect she had on him. “Ehhh… You dish it out pretty well too.” pouted even more. “So you’re on ’s side! I’m being tag teamed!” She removed her hand from his thigh and slapped his shoulder. drew a deep breath and realized that he’d hardly been able to breathe while her hand had been on his thigh.
“Well, I know when I’m not wanted. See you losers later!” replied still pouting. She stood up, winked playfully at them and walked away.
watched while took a sip of his water. “So you have a thing for my cousin, ey?” choked and started to cough. “W..what?” He managed between gasps. “Yeah. I’ve watched you two for the last week or so and let me tell you, it’s dead obvious. Hell, even sees it and you know he never notices anything!” coughed one more time for good measure and then spoke nonchalantly: “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” “You’re not fooling anyone.” laughed. “Well, maybe , but she’s always been clueless when it comes to guys fancying her.” He added as an afterthought.
sighed. “I don’t see that way , I swear.” “And I say you’re not fooling anyone. You look at her ALL the time when you think no one’s watching. And my God the sighs when you look at her. I almost laughed out loud today when I saw you. And your face when she put her hand on your thigh. I seriously thought your eyes would pop out of their sockets.” sighed again. “Ok, so maybe I do have a thing for her.” “Fine with me, she could do so much worse. But you know the drill. You hurt her and I kill you.” gave him a weak smile. “Yeah, but you’re forgetting the fact that she doesn’t love me back.” “Whoa, love? You LOVE her? And here I thought you just had a small crush or something like that.” hid his face in his hands and groaned.
CHAPTER 2
“So, when are you going to tell her?” asked him while they were warming up for the show. “Tell who what?” said coming up beside them. “’s got a crush on , no scratch that. looooves my little cousin.” said with a grin “Oh, that. Yeah, when are you going to tell her?” said with a shrug while stretching his arms. also approached. “What are you talking about?” “ and ” replied, fiddling with his mic. “Oh, so ’s finally admitted that he likes her. Well, that’s one step in the right direction. Does she know?” snorted. “Of course not. Do you honestly think dares to tell her?” “Umm, excuse me. Can you stop talking about me like I’m not here?” interjected. The other three ignored him. “True” nodded. “He is kind of chicken about that kind of stuff. Do you remember that Lisa girl he fancied for the whole last tour? Did you ever tell her how you felt, ?” blushed. “No… But this is different. is…” He sighed. “ is what?” The object of ’s affection bounced into the room with a huge grin.
“Well, , what am I?” said while taking a seat on a couch. “Ehhh… You’re… you…” stammered. raised an eyebrow. “Yeeees. I’m… Come on spit it out!” came to the rescue. “ is trying to say that he thinks you’re interested in Wayne, our hair guy.” laughed. “Wayne? are you insane? Not only is he like 15 years older than me, but he’s so obviously gay. Don’t tell me you haven’t noticed!” doubled over in fits of laughter while shot a glare. only grinned and shrugged. “So, what are you doing here anyway, ?” asked. “Oh” said, sobering up. “I just came to give you this .” She said handing him a paper.
took one look at the paper and blushed before folding it and stuffing it in his pocket. “What was that!?” asked after witnessing ’s look. ’s eyes were drawn to ’s legs as she crossed them and leaned back on the couch. “Oh, just a little something I found on the internet today. I was bored while you guys were in meet and greet. It’s a souvenir from ’s last show here in Stockholm.” immediately realised what had found and started to laugh. and looked at him like he’d grown a second head. “What’s so funny?” demanded to know.
“Do you remember what happened last time you were here?” asked with a smile. “Vaguely, why?” asked. “Do you remember being pulled of the stage?” “I was not pulled of the stage; they just grabbed my pants, TRYING to pull me down.” objected. laughed. “Yeah, and while they didn’t pull you down, they certainly managed to pull your pants down. Lucky for you that you wore clean boxers.” gave him a feigned look of sympathy. “You gave him a picture of THAT?” exclaimed. “Let me see!!” He demanded turning to . “No way!” replied, shaking his head. “Oh don’t worry guys, I’ll show you later.” said flippantly. “In fact I was thinking could sign a few of them and you could hand them out at meet and greets instead of the boring pictures you sign now. Trust me, they’d be a hit!” was blushing furiously by now. “Don’t you have anywhere else to be right now, ?” pretended to think about it. “No, but you guys on the other hand have to be on stage in 5 minutes so you better get out of here.”
The guys checked their watches and hurried to pick up their stuff. “I’ll see you later, chica. Still up for going out later?” asked giving her a hug. winked and returned the hug. “You know it! Break a leg, everybody!” She said and blew them each a kiss.
*** Later that night ***
“Where is it?” exclaimed while turning her bag upside down, emptying its contents on the floor outside of her hotel room. “Problems?” She heard a voice ask and she looked up seeing standing there. She smiled at him. “Yeah, I can’t find my key card. I’ve looked everywhere, and it’s not here!” “Do you remember where you saw it last?” said crouching down to help her pick up her stuff and putting it back into her bag. looked like she was thinking it through for a while before she looked up and snapped her fingers. “Yeah, I know where it is!” She said and stood up again. followed suit and his eyes bugged out and his chin dropped when reached down her bra and picked up the key.
“Here it is. I totally forgot I put it here!” “W…w…why on earth did you put it there?” stuttered while unlocked the door and pushed it open. “I always put things in there, like money or my credit card. Saves me from bringing a bag.” “But you had a bag!” still couldn’t get the image of her touching herself there out of his head. “Well yeah, but the bag was in ’s room when we were leaving so I just put it in the bra, for right then, but I guess I forgot to put the card in the bag.” shrugged and leaned to give him a kiss on his cheek. “See you in 30 minutes, !” And with that she went inside her room and closed the door, leaving staring at the door.
Inside smiled softly at the door. ’s look when she’d retrieved the key card was priceless! She sighed and fell back on the bed looking out the window at the dark sky. If he only could see her as something other than a friend and ’s cousin. She sat up again and spoke out loud. “Well, let’s make him! Tonight I’m dressing to kill!”
CHAPTER 3
40 minutes later emerged from the room and walked over to the elevator where the guys and their bodyguards waited. Approaching the group she also noticed that ’s girlfriend was with them. The girls had been friends since the first time they’d met. hadn’t had an idea that she even was in Sweden.
“Oh My God! !!” exclaimed giving the other girl a big hug. “What are you doing here?” smiled. “I decided to surprise . I just got in and I’ll be with you guys for a week.” coughed. “, honey. Didn’t you forget something?” turned towards , lifting an eyebrow. “Huh?” “Well…” He said looking at her outfit. “You obviously forgot clothes, or should I say, you forgot a skirt.” flipped him off. “, is there anything wrong with my skirt?” laughed. “Hell no. , quit being so big brotherish. Let’s go!!” She grabbed ’s hand and hooked her arm with ’s and walked into the elevator.
couldn’t believe his eyes. What was she trying to do? Kill him? He thanked his lucky star that he’d chosen jeans tonight; otherwise her effect on him would have been very obvious.
on the other hand smiled to herself as she stood and the back of the elevator. She’s been a bit unsure about the choice of clothes, or lack of as had put it. She had on a pair of knee high black boots adding three inches to her length, a short, short black skirt that only just went past her butt and a red tube top. Since it was kind of cold outside she had on a black leather coat as well. Her hair was up, baring her neck and she had red lipstick and smoky eye make-up. Her best friend from back home had called this a hooker-outfit last time she’d worn it. Of course, that had been the whole purpose of it back then since that was a masquerade. Now she only wanted to notice her as more than a little girl. And judging by the way he had sized her up more than once, she had succeeded.
“So, where are we going?” asked, snapping back to reality. “We were thinking Spy Bar.” said while secretly eyeing . “Okay, sounds good.” nodded. “Last time danced on the table. Remember that?” She said pinching ’s cheek. “No, of course you don’t, you were too wasted.” She added. just slapped her hand away. “I do remember, and I also remember a certain someone who joined me.” He said giving a look. just shrugged. “You looked like you had fun, I try everything once. Why not table dancing?” grinned and whispered something in her ear. laughed. “If you’re nice I might.” “Ewww, TMI!!” exclaimed covering his ears with his hands.
“Seems like you guys had a fun time last time you were here.” said pouting. “And where was I? I was back in Ireland working at a pissy job.” She crossed her arms and pouted even more. “I never get to have any fun.” She turned to as the doors opened at the bottom floor and they exited the elevator. “, promise me we’ll have fun tonight!” She said and stroked his arm. gulped. “Sure we will, .” “Can we do tequila shots?” said taking his hand, walking with him towards the exit. looked down on their hands. laughed. “You are NOT drinking tequila . It only ends with you puking somewhere.” smiled. “Oh, yeah I forgot, but sambuca shots? Are they ok?” looked suspiciously at her. “Maybe, and why are you holding ’s hand?” stuck her tongue out, revealing her pierced tongue. “Because he let’s me.” She said and winked at . blushed and looked down. “Now, come on let’s go! I’m thirsty!” exclaimed.
At the club they were immediately were escorted to the VIP-area and everybody sat down at a table. Everybody except and … “LET’S PARTY!!” The two troublemakers chorused before heading to the dance floor. turned and walked backwards while shouting. “, order me some shots!” shook his head and turned to . “You want her? Take her, she’s all yours!” “I just bet he wants to take her!” interjected with an evil grin. smacked him on the back of his head. “That’s my cousin you know. Don’t say things like that!” stood up. “I’m gonna order. , I’ll order ’s shots too.” “Ok” answered, still playfully bantering with .
walked over to the bar and ordered a beer for himself and a tray with 10 shots for , and he suspected that would join her in drinking them. Those two seemed to be hell bent on getting insanely drunk tonight. He wouldn’t be surprised if they had to carry those two home tonight.
When he returned to their table the girls had returned. was perched on ’s lap and sat on the chair had sat in earlier. “You’re in my seat”. He said walking up. “But there aren’t anymore chairs.” said, smiling innocently. “I can go ask if they have a spare somewhere.” volunteered. “Nah, I’ll just sit in ’s lap!” said, getting up from the chair, pushing down on it and then she sat down in his lap. After that she gave a shot, took one herself and the girls both downed their shots at the same time.
couldn’t believe it. She was sitting on his lap. She had to notice his hard-on. After all, she was sitting right on it. He took a sip of beer just as leaned back and whispered. “Thanks for the shots, . You’re my hero!” Then she kissed the corner of his mouth and had to stop himself from falling of the chair. They had never been that close to actual kissing before, and he desperately wanted to taste her lips. At the moment he knew they’d taste liquorish after the drink she’d just had. He licked his lips mentally imagining the kiss.
***
couldn’t believe how she acted tonight. Sure, she’d downed two of the small vodka bottles in the mini bar in her room before they went out, just to gain some ‘Dutch courage’, but this was insane. She was not this bold normally. Here she was sitting rather comfortably in ’s lap. His right hand was holding a beer glass; she believed it to be his third or maybe forth. His left hand was now resting on her thigh. When she first had sat down, he hadn’t seemed to know where to put his hands, but she liked this placement. She liked it really much, especially since his thumb were constantly moving, stroking her thigh softly. She sighed and leaned forward to grab the last shot of the tray. This was her seventh. had had three before she had opted to stop, choosing to drink wine instead.
As bent forward she heard inhale sharply. She had noticed when she first sat down that he was turned on. She could only hope that she was the cause of that.
“I need to go to the ladies.” said. “I’ll go with you.” said getting up. “Whoa” She said as she stood up. “I’m dizzy”. laughed. “I’m not surprised. You must be wasted by now.” I’m not wash…I mean wasted.” said indignantly. “Sure, you’re not.” said with a smile. “I might be a teeny weeny bit affected, but not wasted.” said with a nod before she and wobbled away to the ladies room.
turned to . “Having a nice night, ?” smiled sarcastically. “Oh, yeah. Having the woman of your dreams placed right on your crotch is a wonderful feeling, let me tell ya. Especially when she’s not interested in you, and even if she was, which she definitely doesn’t seem to be by the way, she’s far to wasted for you to do anything about it.”
The girls returned and a slow song came on. “Baby, I want to dance!” said, pouting at . sighed but got up and took ’s hand and they went to the dance floor. sat down on ’s lap again. “She put her arms around his neck and looked deep into his eyes. “Wanna dance, ?” She asked sweetly. coughed and wiggled uncomfortably. “Now?” “Yeah. Don’t you want to dance with me?” pouted. “Of course he will.” said, slapping ’s back. “Come on, man!” stood up and held out her hand. took it and got up as well, and they also headed for the dance floor.
immediately placed her arms around ’s neck and put her head against his shoulder. placed his arms in the middle of ’s back and looked down on her. She was so beautiful. Her breath tickled his neck as she turned her head towards him. “You can move a little closer. I don’t bite you know.” She said “Well, not unless you want me too, that is.” She added cheekily. shook his head at her boldness. She was obviously drunk, because while was bold and outspoken, she never was this blatantly flirty. He knew he shouldn’t take advantage of the fact that she was drunk, but it was so hard not to when she was teasing him this way. He followed her direction and moved closer, pulling her closer to his body. He couldn’t resist bending down and smelling her hair. She smelt so good!
As the song came to an end the lights in the club went up. groaned “I don’t wanna go home yet! I want to dance more!” smiled. “Well, it’s 5 am already. We have to be at the airport in just 3 hours.” groaned again and buried her head deeper into his shoulder. “I haven’t even packed yet.” He heard in a muffled voice. “Are you guys gonna stay here or are you coming?” came up to them. looked up and saw that the club was empty now and their gang was the only ones left. was waiting patiently by the door together with and who were making out. “We’re coming, .” answered and let go of . leaned up and gave a kiss on the cheek. “Thanks for the dance, ” Then she walked over to , leaving staring after her.
Chapter 4
“Is there a pharmacy in here?” asked perching her sunglasses on her head. “I’m seriously dying here. I can’t believe I didn’t have any painkillers left. What kind of idiot forgets to buy that?” She said, more to herself than anyone in particular. “You did” replied sitting next to her reading quietly. shot him an annoyed glance, but chose to ignore his statement. “Do you know if there is a pharmacy in here?” looked up from his book. “No, but ask . He probably knows.” “? Why would he know?” “ gets REALLY bad hangovers, and he never remembers to buy painkillers either. I think he must’ve visited every airport pharmacy in the world by now.” looked over to were were seated. He looked utterly bored, sitting in his chair, looking out of the window. looked him over. He looked gorgeous sitting there. His hair was covered with a black cap; he had on a pair of light blue jeans and a black shirt. She stood up and walked over to him.
“Hey, are you ok?” He asked smiling at her as she sat down next to him. “No, I’m never drinking again. Ever!” laughed. “Somehow I doubt you’ll be sticking to that promise.” pouted. “I can’t get any sympathy around here I tell you.” patted her shoulder. “Did you honestly expect any?” didn’t answer, opting to lean back in the chair and close her eyes. observed her closely. She, like the rest of them, looked tired. She had sunglasses perched on her head, black jeans covered her bottom half and she had a black sweater on. She looked young and vulnerable. He still couldn’t believe that she was 25 years old. She looked maybe 18, especially now that she had no make-up on.
averted his eyes from her face as she opened her eyes again. She sighed wiggled around in the chair trying to get comfortable and then closed her eyes again. wondered to himself what he could do to make her love him. Maybe if he tried to spend as much time as he could with her she’d see him in another light, but then again, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Or at least that what was his mum used to say. He thought about it for a while and then decided that he’d try the first option instead. Be as close to her as possible!
“Flight SK636 to Helsinki has been delayed due to technical problems. We apologize for the inconvenience, and we will inform you about the progress.”
groaned and opened her eyes. “I can’t believe it. I could have been sleeping right now instead.” “Why don’t you?” asked. lifted an eyebrow at him and shook her head. “Do you see a bed in here, ?” shook his head. “No, but you can sleep just fine in these chairs, trust me, I’ve done it lots of times.” “I can’t get comfortable. And I have a headache!” continued to whine. “Want an aspirin?” perked up. “I totally forgot to ask. Do you know where there is a pharmacy?” “Well, yeah, but I actually have some right here.” He said and patted his bag. squealed excitedly, before groaning and clutching her head. “Bad idea!” laughed again. “So do you want some?” couldn’t help teasing him, despite her headache. “That could be misinterpreted big time, !” She said. “But I’d love some.” I’d love to have both some loving and some painkillers. blushed and picked up his bag. “Here you go.” He said and handed her the pills and a water bottle. “You truly are my hero you know!” said and gave him a big hug. inhaled the sweet smell of her hair and enjoyed how she felt against him.
“, did you just smell my hair?” said against his chest. “Err, no?!” said, blushing even more. “Oh, must have been my imagination then.” said releasing him. She quickly unscrewed the cap of the bottle, took two pills and put them in her mouth and then took a big gulp of water. “Man, I hate taking pills!” She exclaimed and gave him his bottle back. He looked at it and couldn’t resist taking a gulp of water himself. Her lips had just a second earlier touched the same place as his did now. I’m pathetic! He thought to himself and shook his head. “What was that?” asked looking at him. “What was what?” He said, wondering what she was talking about. “You just shook your head.” At that moment plopped down on the other side of . “Anyone more than me that is hungry?”
grimaced. “Not hungry, but I’d kill for coffee!” “I’ll go with you too.” said, not wanting to miss out on time with . “Great, then it’s just the two lovebirds over there that won’t go with us.” said and pointed towards and who were cuddled up together, totally oblivious to anything but themselves. “Awww” said looking at them. “They are so cute.” “What a chic thing to say.” exclaimed laughing. “ slapped his arm. “Excuse me, Mr , but I AM a chic.” came up to them. “Are we going or what?” pouted. “’s being mean!” “What else is new?” asked and grabbed her hand before she could hit him with it. “You’re so violent!” He said shaking his head, and lifting her up, throwing her over his shoulder. “, this isn’t funny! Put me down!” shouted. ignored her and kept on walking.
“! I’m nauseous! If you don’t put me down, I’m gonna throw up!” immediately put her down. smacked his shoulder. “Now, what purpose did that silly move have?” stuck his tongue out at her. “Do you have to have a purpose with everything you do?” “Yes” deadpanned. “Oh, so drinking yourself silly yesterday had a purpose. I can’t wait to hear this. Tell me, oh dear cousin, what exactly was the purpose of that?” looked at who was busy ordering food, before looking back at . looked back at her with narrowed eyes. “Ok, so maybe that particular move didn’t have any purpose, but I had fun last night so that kind of evens out today I guess.
They walked over to and . immediately turned to . “So what do you want?” “Hmm, a grande latte I think, oh and I want it vanilla flavoured.” She answered and he ordered for her as well.” pulled out her wallet and tried to give Nicky some money for her coffee. “I don’t want your money!” He protested, refusing to take them. “Oh, come on . I can pay myself!” He handed the cashier his credit card. “Of course you can, but I’m not taking your money!” He signed his receipt and took their stuff, walking over to the table where was already seated.
decided to be a gentleman and pulled out a chair for , before taking a seat beside her. “Thanks, ” said. Was it his imagination or was she actually blushing? sat down opposite them with his tray. “Did you guys see the cashier, was she cute or what?” nodded, continuing to eat. gave him a blank look. “Was she?” shook his head at his obviously infatuated friend and turned to . “Why are you so red in the face?” ’s hands flew to her face, covering her cheeks. “I’m not red!” “Sure you aren’t.” said, while putting milk in his coffee.
They ate in silence. observed from the corner of his eyes. She was quietly reading a newspaper that someone had left behind. “Do you understand what it says?” He asked her. “Not really. But there is a review of your show somewhere in here. Could be fun to see if they liked you.” “Of course they liked us!” quipped. “Who doesn’t?” laughed and turned the pages of the paper until she found the review. “It says here that you got three crosses out of what? Five or ten? Let’s hope for your sake that it’s five.” She continued to read. “I think this means best. , honey, it says something about you and ‘Total Eclipse’ in the best column.” smiled proudly. “Of course it does.” “Hmm, and then this should be the worst then.” scratched her head. I have no idea what this means. She leaned over to the table next to them where three young guys were seated. “Excuse, me could you translate this for me, please?” She asked the guy closest to her. He gave her an appreciative glance and sized her up and down, before smiling and taking the paper from her. “Sure!” Meanwhile was boiling on the inside. The nerves of this guy! “It says here that the worst part of the show was that the guys moved stiffly and looked uncomfortable dancing.” , and immediately blushed and pulled their caps further down on their heads. on the other hand smiled brightly and thanked the guy before turning back to the guys. “The truth hurts, doesn’t it?” All three guys flipped her off. just shrugged and continued to browse the paper.
Chapter 5
*** Two weeks later ***
“I think has lost his mind!” exclaimed, slamming the door and flung herself on the bed. looked up from the book he’d been reading. “What makes you say that?” He said, quickly giving up of the idea of some peace and quiet. He recognized the look on his cousin’s face. She was pissed, confused and fed up. “He is like glue. I mean if I turn around, he’s there. If I go to the bathroom, he’s there. If I…” “Hold it. He’s in the bathroom with you?” “Well, not IN it. But he’s outside when I come out. He’s in the cafeteria when I’m there. He’s always pulling out chairs or holding the door open. He’s even started to wink at me during the shows.” “We all wink at you during the shows.” said. “That’s not the same! Ugh, where is when you need her, she’d understand this!” “ is back in Ireland. And don’t you think you’re being a little paranoid?” Maybe it’s just coincidence that you two seem to be at the same place at the same time?” made a mental note to talk to later. He didn’t think this was the right way to get ’s attention.
Meanwhile had been rambling on. “…and just because he’s cute doesn’t mean I want to see him ALL the time. And what about…” interrupted her once again. “Do you think is cute?” He asked narrowing his eyes. blushed. That had slipped out by accident. She tried to play it cool. “Well, yeah. I mean is cute also, And and you, but you’re my cousin so I don’t see you THAT way. I mean, I don’t see any of you guys that way. I can say that someone is cute but not mean it that way.” Ok, so she was rambling now. So much for playing it cool.
still looked at her through narrowed eyes. nervously looked back at him. “Why are you looking at me like that?” She said, fidgeting with her hair. crossed his arms. “Do you have a thing for ?” “WHAT?” “Do you have a thing for ?” repeated. looked at him like he had lost his mind. “What makes you say that?” “Maybe the way you pathetically tried to make excuses just now, or maybe the fact that you’re red in the face. Or how about the fact that I’ve known you for the last 25 years and I’ve seen basically every look of emotion out of you. This look, my dear, screams ‘I like someone!’ And I’m going to take a guess and say that is the one you like this time.” blushed harder. “And I take that as a sign that I’m right.” said with a smile. “I hate you!” said flipping him off. “Only because I’m right.” said moving from the couch he’d been sitting in, and sat down next to on the bed. “So what are you going to do about it?”
laid her head on ’s shoulder. “This stays between us two, right?” She said. “Do you even have to ask?” answered and slipped an arm around her shoulders. “No, I guess not. God, I’m so confused!” “How long have you liked ?” “I’ve known that I like him in a more than friends way for maybe a year at least.” “You’ve managed to hide it well; I had no clue until today.” said, softly stroking her arm. “Yeah, well he only sees me as your cousin, a little girl. In fact that’s probably why he’s been clinging on to me like white on rice.” She turned to . “Can’t you talk to him? Tell him I’m a big girl and that he doesn’t have to look after me all the time.” had a hard time not laughing at her. She was so completely clueless as to why was acting the way he was. “Umm, sure, honey. Anything else I can help you with?” “Well I need to get my prescription of my birth control pills refilled. Care to join me?” At ’s horrified expression she started to laugh. “Relax, cuz. I’m kidding!” She punched him on the shoulder. “Good, because you don’t need birth control pills, because you’re still a virgin and are going to stay that way until you’re married, right?” laughed and patted him upside his head. “Sure honey, whatever makes you sleep at night.”
couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “Ok, subject change. This is way too much information for me; you’re my little cousin for God’s sake. I don’t want to hear this!” just smiled at his obvious discomfort. “Ok, so what DO you want to talk about, then?” “Anything other than your sex life, that’s for sure.” shuddered. “So, your sex life then? Or lack thereof maybe, I haven’t seen you with one single girl on this tour.” “No, that’s because I’ve been sticking to the married ones.” replied cheekily. “Very funny” replied. “No, but seriously, what are you going to do about ?” shrugged. “At the moment I’m closer to killing him than kissing him, so I don’t know.” kept quiet, knowing that the only thing had to do was actually walk up to and tell him how she felt. would be elated to hear that she returned his feelings. He debated telling her about ’s feelings and put them all out of their misery. He opened his mouth when there was a knock on the door. went to open.
“Yes?” She asked who was on the other side of the door. “Isn’t this ’s room?” asked rather confused, looking at the number displayed on the door. He’d been sure that this was ’s room. “Yeah, but he was too lazy to open.” said smiling. ’s breath caught in his throat. She was beautiful when she smiled. “I was not!” Could be heard from inside the room, and came to stand beside . “She was just faster than me.” He said smiling as well. “So, what’s up, ?” , who wanted to talk to about , started to stutter. “I…uhh…I…I need…” cut him of. “I’m gonna get something to eat so I’ll see you guys later. , needs to talk to you ASAP, ok?!” “Uh, sure.” replied watching as she walked to the elevator.
“Earth to ! Hello!” snapped back to reality, and averted his eyes from one cousin to the other. “So what was it you wanted?” cleared his throat. “I need to talk to you about .” “I figured, come on in.” followed him inside and closed the door. “So, what did you need to talk to me about?” asked as they sat down on the couch. “Same thing you need to talk to me about; .” said, leaning back. “What?” “ is this close to killing you. Apparently, gluing yourself to her isn’t working.” smiled and blushed. “Look, just finished moaning about how she thinks you think she’s just a little girl. Treat her as an equal, don’t crowd her, flirt with her, or just ask her out on a proper date, wine and dine her and then kiss her. Hell, skip all of it, go find her right now and plant a big one on her and live happily ever after!” looked utterly confused. “What the hell are you talking about?” sighed. “Look. likes you too, she just told me. You didn’t hear it from me ok?!” “ likes me?” said, not really believing what was saying. “Yeah, and do not tell her I told you that, ok?!” A big grin slowly spread across ’s face. “She really likes me. That’s amazing!” cleared his throat. “And you didn’t hear it from me!” looked over at . “Ok, I didn’t hear it from you.” “Good, ‘cause if she ever finds out I told you, she’ll kill me. And I’m far too young to die.” giggled to himself.
couldn’t help but smile at his friend. He looked like a kid on Christmas. “, likes you, but at the moment she thinks you’re insane, and to use her own words ‘at the moment she’s closer to killing you than kissing you’.” winced. “So what should I do? I mean do I just walk up to her and tell her I know she likes me or what?” started to feel like a psychologist, and he wondered when he was going to get some peace and quiet. “Since she’d know right away that I told you, I’d say no.” “So what should I do?” “I don’t know, . I mean you’re basically asking me what I would do if I wanted to make out with my cousin. And quite frankly, that’s disgusting!” nodded. “I see what you mean, I’ll figure something out. Thanks !” And with that he was gone and was finally alone with his book.
Chapter 6
wandered aimlessly down the halls of the hotel trying to figure out how to tell he liked her. ’s idea of just walking up and give her a big kiss had some merit. But he knew that he was more of the wine and dine type and even though he knew he’d probably get a yes, he was terrified of asking her out.
As he rounded a corner he saw a crumpled figure sitting against the wall, sobbing. Recognising immediately he went and bent down and put a hand on her shoulder. “What’s wrong, honey?” looked up and flung herself against him, enveloping him in a hug and crying even harder. fell back on his butt, but he didn’t care. He held her tightly and whispered soothing words in her ear. After a while ’s sobbing subsided and he tried to ask her again. “, what’s happened?” looked up at him and sniffled. “Kitty died.” knew that this was ’s cat and if he remembered correctly she was at least 18 years old since had told him that had gotten the cat for her 7th birthday.
He let go of her and tried to stand up. Since was sitting in his lap, it was a difficult task, but eventually he stood up, and then lifted up in his arms. She immediately wrapped her arms around his neck and nuzzled her head against it as well. knew that this was not the time to get aroused but he couldn’t help it. “Do you want me to take you to ?” He asked. shook her head against him. “No, I just want to be alone.” His heart fell. “Ok, I’ll take you back to your room then.” He said starting to walk towards the elevator, still carrying . “I can walk myself you know.” She said, with a hint of her usual spunk. “I know you can, honey. But I don’t mind carrying you.” sighed and fiddled a little with his neck hair. He drew in a sharp breath, which she misinterpreted. “I’m too heavy for you. Put me down.” She stated and wiggled a little to get down. Her movements had a certain affect on and he was afraid that she’d notice, so he put her down.
She stood in front of him looking down at the floor. He felt so bad for her. “Are you sure you don’t want me to tell ?” She looked up at him. “I’m sure.” Then she turned around and walked to the elevator. followed her and considered taking her hand as they waited for the elevator. Just as he decided to go for it, the elevator arrived and she walked into it. “You coming?” She said, turning to him. He smiled weakly. “Yeah.”
They arrived at the right floor and immediately went to her room. Opening the door she turned to him and gave him a hug. She then leaned up and whispered. “Thanks” Her breath against his ear was highly arousing. He cleared his throat. “Anytime, honey.” She let go and looked up at him. “Will you knock on my door when you leave for the arena?” He checked his watch and saw that it was only one and a half hour away. “Are you sure you want to go tonight?” nodded. “Yeah, I need something to get my mind off Kitty. “ She started to tear up again and quickly wiped her eyes. didn’t know what to say or do so he just wrapped her arms around her again. At that moment came out of his room. “What are you guys doing?” He said with a smile, misinterpreting the scene in front of him. looked up and summoned him over with a nod of his head. When came up to them looked up as well and then let go of and flung herself at instead. almost felt jealous that she preferred before him but he told himself he was being silly. and had a lifelong bond and it was no wonder she’d chose him.
“Kitty died” repeated, choking at her words. said nothing just held her tight, comforting her with his mere presence. It was that kind of relationship wanted with . The kind where no words were needed to tell the other one how you felt. decided he wasn’t needed anymore and gave a pat on his shoulder and stroked ’s back. looked up and mouthed “Thanks” towards him. smiled sadly and walked to his room.
***
was in a daze, walking around backstage at the arena. She couldn’t believe it. Sure Kitty had been old but last time she’d seen her she’d been fit and alert. Her mom had told her that she’d started to loose weight and had started to get trouble with jumping up and down on things. The vet had told her mom that there wasn’t much to be done, so her mom had decided it was time for Kitty to be put to rest. Her mom told her that they had buried Kitty under the apple tree in their garden.
She went to the cafeteria but she wasn’t really hungry so she just snagged an orange and a soda and sat down at a table in the corner of the room trying to be as invisible as possible. She knew the guys were at sound check and since she didn’t know that many else on the tour she knew that the chance of someone sitting down with her was slim to none, just as she wanted it. She just wanted to be alone with her thoughts.
Soon came in and went straight over to her. “You ok?” She smiled weakly. “Not really, but I’ll be fine. It just takes some time.” He kissed her on the upside of her head and told her that he’d be right back. and came in and the both made their way to her, and both telling her how sorry they were for her loss, before heading for the food. She just smiled and thanked them. She couldn’t help but wondering were was, after all, they usually ate together after the sound check and she couldn’t see why today would be any different.
came back with some food and he glanced at her food. “Is that all you’re going to eat?” “I’m not that hungry.” shook his head but knew better that to argue with her. and also came and set down at the table. “Where’s ?” asked. looked up from his food. “His mic wasn’t working properly so he had to do a second sound check.” Just then came in. He walked over to them, and sat down next to . “You ok?” “I’ll be fine.” He gave her a kiss on her cheek and went to get some food.
When he got back immediately turned to him. “Wanna go out tonight?” interjected before could answer. “You want to go out tonight? Are you kidding?” shot him a dirty look. “I wasn’t talking to you, I was talking to . And yes. I’m gonna drink myself silly, ok? I just don’t think I should do it alone.” sighed. “Drinking has never solved a problem before, and you know it, honey!” “, I wasn’t asking you! I know you’d only try to stop me. , do you want to go out?” looked between the two cousins. The situation could have been hilarious with the two of them staring each other down. didn’t find it the very least funny, but he knew that would drink herself into a stupor with or without company, she’d done it before when things got tough, and he thought that he’d better join her. Otherwise, who’d knew what would happen? “Uh, ok” “Good” replied and gave one last thunderous look before leaving the table.
As soon as left the room, turned to . “Why’d you do that for?” calmly answered. “, you know more than well than will get drunk tonight, with or without company. I’d rather she’d be in someone’s company. Don’t you?” sighed. “I guess so, but you better take good care of her, and call me if anything happens!” nodded. “Sure thing.” “And buy her non-alcoholic drinks if you can.” laughed. “Yeah, ok.” “And don’t kiss her.” “What?” asked, completely baffled. “If she’s drunk, then do not kiss her!” said and added. “Yeah, a thing like that never ends well. It’ll be insanely uncomfortable tomorrow and someone will regret it, probably she.” shook his head. “Ok, I won’t kiss her, jeez.”
***
looked at who was over at the bar ordering some more to drink. By his count she should be drunk by now, but funnily enough, or how you wanted to look at it, she didn’t appear to be. She didn’t slur at her words, she walked straight and her eyes weren’t even that glossy. He shook his head. This could be a long night.
came back with a drink for herself and a pint of beer for him. She placed the full glass besides his half-empty glass. “You’re drinking too slowly, .” She said, taking a big sip of her own drink. He smiled. “You’re drinking too fast, .” She stuck her tongue out. “Yeah, yeah whatever. I’m drowning my sorrows.” He felt sorry for her. “Drinking doesn’t solve your problems.” “God, you sound like . If I wanted a sermon I’d asked him to tag along. I asked you because I thought you wouldn’t be like that. Looks like I was wrong.” And with that she took her drink and stood up. “See you around.” She started to walk away, but quickly grabbed her arm, causing her to spill her drink all over herself. She looked first at herself and then at . “Look what you did!” She screamed before starting to cry violently. knew that the drink had only been a catalyst for this crying attack, he didn’t think she was that upset with him, so he wrapped his arms around her and she sobbed into his chest.
“Let’s go back to the hotel.” He said, stroking her back soothingly. “You need to sleep.” nodded and sniffled. “I’m sorry, . I’m so sorry.” “You don’t have anything to be sorry for, honey.” “I’m drunk and upset and I shouldn’t have yelled at you.” “Yell all you want, if it makes you feel better. And for the record, you don’t look so drunk.” gave him a half smile. “I feel drunk.” He smiled and gave her a kiss on the head before taking her hand and led her to the exit. He then flagged down a cab and held the door open for her before getting in himself.
stared out of the window as the taxi drove them back to the hotel. on the other hand decided to text and tell him they were heading back to the hotel. “Who are you texting?” asked, obviously tearing her eyes away from the window. “, telling him we’re going back.” huffed and crossed her arms over her chest. “Oh come on, you know he worries about you.” “He needs a girlfriend to worry about. Then maybe ha can leave me alone.” smiled. “You know that will never happen. To him you’ll always be the little girl he needs to look after.” leaned back against the seat still with her arms crossed. “I’m so tired of everyone seeing me as a little girl. I’m twenty-five, I’m an adult and capable of making my own damn decisions!” winced. “I don’t see you as a little girl.” snorted. “Oh please, save it. You guys are the worst. Well, ’s the worst but you, and are all in second place. You’re always trying to protect me from the big bad world. And I’m so sick of it!”
The taxi came to a halt in front of the hotel and opened the door and stormed out before could react. He quickly paid the driver and rushed out of the taxi. He caught up with her at the elevator. She shot him a dirty look. “Don’t talk to me, .” The elevator doors opened and they both stepped in. pushed the button for their floor and looked over at who stood at the other end of the elevator. “, I promise. I don’t see you as a little girl. I see you as a woman. A beautiful woman more than capable of making your own decisions and…” cut him of. “You think I’m beautiful?” She asked softly, all her previous anger seemed to have disappeared. blushed. He hadn’t meant for it to come out like that. He cleared his throat. “Yes, I think you’re very beautiful.” stepped away from the wall and came to stand in front of him. “Why haven’t you said anything before?” She asked, still in a very soft voice. started to sweat. Sure, he knew liked him, but this was not at all what he had planned when he decided to tell her he liked her too. She was drunk now, and although she didn’t appear to be the least affected by the alcohol, he knew that there was a small chance that she was so wasted that she might not remember this conversation tomorrow. He didn’t think that was the case, but he wanted to be sure.
He gave her a kiss on her forehead just as the elevator arrived on the right floor. “Come on, honey, I’ll take you to your room.” “You’re avoiding the question.” said refusing to budge. sighed and pushed his hand through his hair. “I’ve always thought you were beautiful .” “But?” questioned. “But nothing, you’re beautiful and a great friend.” He cursed himself for lying. Sure she was his friend but he wanted her to be so much more. Hell, she only had to take on step closer to him to feel how much he wanted her. took a step back instead. “A friend?” She asked in disbelief. Just then ’s door opened and he stepped out. “I thought I heard something out here. Are you ok, ?” She answered but still looked at . “Oh, just peachy, . was just telling me what a beautiful FRIEND I am.” Since she didn’t look at she didn’t see the look of concern he gave . She then turned on her heal and walked away. She passed and without another word she opened her door and walked in, slamming the door shut.
stepped out of the elevator and groaned. “Great!” “What was that all about?” questioned. “ was saying how everyone was seeing her as a little girl and how sick she was of it. So I let it slip that I thought she was beautiful and then I couldn’t tell her how I really felt because I don’t know how drunk she is and if she’ll remember this tomorrow or not. So I just told her that she was beautiful and a great friend, and that didn’t go over too well. I think friend was as bad as a little girl actually.” He said and shook his head. patted his arm. “You can always patch it up tomorrow. “ “Yeah, if she’ll talk to me that is. I never thought I’d say this but I hope she doesn’t remember a thing tomorrow.” With that he told good night and walked to his room.
Chapter 7
Next morning woke up with a start when her phone rang. The sudden movement made her nauseous and she only managed to answer whoever was calling with a ‘Hold on!’ before she dashed to the bathroom, emptying her stomach’s contents. Just as she was finished and quickly rinsed her mouth, someone knocked on the door. Grabbing her phone she went to answer the door. was outside, holding his phone up to his ear. He greeted her with a dazzling smile. “You look like shit!” She ignored him and asked “Where you calling me on my phone?” “Yeah, but since you disappeared so quickly, I thought I’d check up on you.” She hung up her phone and he did the same. “Yeah, ok. Now you’ve checked on me, I’m fine. Bye!” And with that she tried to close her door. had other plans though. He pushed the door open and strolled in. “Man, it smells awful in here!” He said, walking over to the window, opening the curtains and then opened the window, letting fresh air into the room. winced at the light. “Do you have a reason to be here this early?”
turned to her. “It’s 1 pm , it’s not early.” “Well, I have a hang over and a bad mood, so I suggest that you leave me alone.” “No can do chica, you have some major sucking up to do. Poor has no idea what he did wrong yesterday.” said, stretching the truth.” sat down on the bed and put her face in her hands, hiding her eyes from the light. “Oh God, he must think I’m a total psycho!” sat down beside her. “Nah, that’s just me.” “Thanks a lot!” laid back on the bed. “So while you go get pretty, I’ll just take a nap and then we can go.” “Go where?” asked suspiciously. “To get you something to eat, and then maybe do a little shopping or sightseeing. I have the whole day off so I thought I’d spend it with the bestest cousin in the world.” “I thought you said I needed to suck up, not you.” pouted. “Well, fine. But go get ready so we can get out of here!” just shook his head at him, but for once did as she was told.
***
What do you think about this shirt, ?” asked, holding up a white dress shirt. yawned. “I think it looks just like that last one and the one before that and the one before that and…” cut her off. “Ok, I get the point, but there are differences you know. This collar is different and the last one had two pockets, this only has one.” gave him a blank look. “If you say so, honey. To me they all look the same, and you look good in all of them.” “Really!” said beaming. “Yeah, absolutely. said, that was the truth, but she also thought that if she complimented then maybe they could get out of this shop sooner.
“I’m hungry.” She said, looking out of the window at the people passing by. “You just had breakfast!” exclaimed. “And your point is?” “That you just ate, how can you be hungry?” She smiled at him. “That’s one of life’s many mysteries. Why is the sky blue? Why are there wars? Is there a God? And why is still hungry?” didn’t even bother to answer. He just picked up another shirt, eying it before putting it back. yawned again. “Seriously , I’m starved and bored. Can you please pick a shirt and then we can get the hell out of here!” gave her a disapproving glance. “Don’t swear!” threw her hands up in the air. “I swear, I’m going insane!” looked at another shirt. “I thought we established that fact earlier today. You are psycho, but that’s ok. I love you anyway.” sat down on a chair, folded her arms over her chest and pouted. just laughed at her, but quickly picked a shirt and paid for it and they finally made their way out of the store.
They walked over to a small café where ordered pancakes and a milkshake. just shook his head at her ability to eat, and settled for a coffee. “If I didn’t know better I’d think you were pregnant. You eat like a horse and you were nauseous this morning.” “Pssh, I’m not pregnant, trust me. I’d have to be an elephant in that case. I haven’t had sex in forever.” quickly covered his ears. “I thought we agreed that your sex life wasn’t a topic I ever wanted to hear about, much less discuss.” “Sorry, baby.” She said with a big smile. “Look, there’s and !” She exclaimed, waving furiously. turned around and saw his two friends approaching.
“Hey, take a seat!” said smiling at . looked at her, trying to read her mood today, but sat down at the chair opposite her. As soon as he had sat down, turned to him. “I’m sorry about yesterday. I didn’t mean to be such a bitch.” who had no idea what-so-ever what had been said looked confused between the two. He was just about to open his mouth and ask what had happened when kicked his shin under the table and he quickly closed his mouth.
and ’s breakfast arrived, and a giggling waitress asked all three guys for an autograph. started to eat while the guys signed the waitress’ notepad. asked for a coffee while opted for tea. They both made big eyes at ’s breakfast. “Haven’t you had breakfast?” asked. “Yeah, but I’m hungry again.” “She’s pregnant.” said and took a sip of his coffee. and dropped their chins, while smacked upside his head. was the first to speak. “You’re WHAT?” Then he turned to . “Is it yours?” giggled. “Look guys, I’m not pregnant. ’s just kidding.” Then she turned to . “And why would it be yours?”
suddenly sprung to life. “Oh, look at the clock. , remember we have that interview in half an hour. Got to go back to the hotel!” looked at as if he’d completely lost his mind. “But we have the whole day off!” smiled at ’s pathetic attempts to get to leave her and alone. “No, we haven’t, remember Louis told us yesterday.” looked utterly confused. “He did?” “Yes, come on!” got up and dragged away from the table. “See you later, got to go!” He yelled and continued to drag away.
couldn’t help but laugh as they walked off. “Man, that wasn’t obvious at all.” She said with a hint of sarcasm. laughed as well. “Your cousin is not subtle at all.” took a sip of her milkshake. “So, why did think you had gotten me pregnant?” looked down at his hands and looked up again. “Because I like you, and he knows that.” ’s eyes bugged out. “What?” She squeaked. She couldn’t believe her ears. Did like her? But why hadn’t he said so earlier? And what about last night? She’d all but thrown herself at him.” “I like you, I might even love you.” said again. tried to collect her thoughts. She looked down on the ground trying to process everything in her mind. Then she looked up and met ’s eyes. And she saw that he was completely genuine. “I like you too.” She said and smiled. quickly stood up from his chair and walked around to her side of the table, pulled her up of her chair and then planted a big kiss on her lips. thought she had died and gone to heaven. She put her arms around his neck and kissed him back. ’s hands made their way to her hips as he pulled her closer. They were now flushed against each other and could feel ’s arousal and it only made her want him more.
They pulled away, catching their breaths while looking deeply into each others eyes. No words were needed as pulled up his wallet, threw some bills onto the table and then took her hand and they quickly walked back to the hotel.
Chapter 8
“Have you seen ?” asked . “No, why?” “I haven’t seen her since me and left her and at 3 pm. That’s like…” He checked his watch. “…7 hours ago.” smiled at ’s obvious worry. “I doubt anything has happened to her. Have you called her phone?” shot him an annoyed look. “Of course I have. Have you seen , maybe he knows!” shook his head. “No, I haven’t seen him. Have you tried ’s phone then? Maybe he knows since you left her with him.” sounded even more annoyed. “He doesn’t answer his phone either.” put the clues together. “So you left and alone together. The same people that you for a fact know likes each other, and then they get MIA. Have you tried their rooms?” looked at him, puzzling the pieces together. “You think they…I mean… Noo, she wouldn’t…She can’t…” Before could finish vocalizing his jumbled thoughts, strode up to ’s door and knocked on it.
put his ear to the door when he heard something from inside the room. walked up. “Do you hear anything ?” waved dismissively at him. “Shhh” shook his head at him, but also put his ear to the door. “I don’t hear anything.” He said and pulled away, knocking once more, before putting his ear back. Just then the door opened revealing only dressed in a sheet. Both and had fallen to the ground when the door suddenly opened and they now looked up at her from the floor. “Hi guys, what’s up?” said with a huge smile. couldn’t help it. “From the looks of it, !” couldn’t help but laugh. “Nice one, . How can I help you gentlemen?” stood up and brushed of his clothes. “Have you been here all day? I was worried you know. I thought something had happened. You could have called you know.” sighed. “Yes, dad. How was the interview by the way?” stood up. “What interview?” smiled. “The one and SUPPOSEDLY had.” looked at . “But we had the whole day off!” laughed. “Yeah, but wanted me and to have some time ALONE together. And then he’s pissed when we do spend some time together.”
came to the door clad only in unbuttoned jeans. He put his arms around ’s waist and put his head on her shoulder. “Hello, what are you guys doing here?” He said, giving a kiss on her shoulder. giggled and turned her head and their lips met in a quick kiss before they turned back to and . smiled. “Finally!” on the other hand hadn’t quite slipped out of dad-mode. “You could have at least texted me!” gave him a bored look. “And written what? ‘I’m at the hotel, shagging ’?” cringed. “Ok, ok, but I was worried!” “Ok, I’m sorry. Can we talk about this tomorrow or something instead?” pleaded. smiled at her. “No, it’s ok. But you can at least remember it next time you disappear, ok?” “Ok!” answered softly. “Sleep tight, honey.” said. smiled and took a step forward, giving him a hug. “Thanks .”
decided he’d had enough socializing for tonight. He just wanted to be alone with his girl. His girl. He could hardly believe it. was his girlfriend. They were finally together and it felt amazing! “Ok, see you tomorrow.” He said, and made a motion to close the door. grinned. “See you at eight, ! And don’t forget to be safe!” Anna gaped, but before she could hit Mark, had puller her inside the room and closed the door. He spun her around and pulled her close. He looked down at her. “Hi.” She smiled at him. “Hi, yourself.” He leaned down and kissed her softly before putting his forehead against hers. “I can’t believe you’re mine.” “Well, you better start believing it, ‘cause I’m not letting you go.” “I love you!” “I love you too, .”
THE END
