Lily's POV

"What happened?" I asked as Joe came out carrying Bella.

"She's not feeling well," Joe replied.

"I'm okay," Bella insisted squirming in Joe's arms. He looked at me. This wasn't like Bella. I mean it might've been her when she first met Joe. But now I had no idea what was going on with her. She was fine but then… oh boy. One word: Taylor.

Bella has never experienced jealously like this. I knew it would have to come sooner or later.

"Well," Joe said, "I'm gonna take her home. I'll see you guys when you get back?"

"Yeah," I said. Luckily I had already packed for tomorrow's journey. We were headed to Washington; Seattle I think. Then after that we would go to Idaho, Oregon, then back to California. I don't have any details yet but I would hopefully be finding out soon.

"Hey," Nick said just as Joe was leaving, "Where are they headed?"

"Bella's sick," I said, "Although she claims she's fine."

"Alright, well we'll see them later?" he asked. I smiled and nodded. Hopefully Bella would be feeling better by then. And maybe her and Joe can talk about whatever's up with her. I knew that if she didn't tell him then she'd tell me.

"So where to?" I asked.

"Well it's your birthday," Nick chuckled, "You tell me."
"Not sure," I said, "I mean I couldn't ask for anything more." Kevin and Danielle had walked over, along with Taylor. She seemed nice. I mean she didn't bug me.

"Underground?" Kevin asked. I smiled and nodded.

"Yeah," I said, "That sounds awesome." There was a restaurant/hangout where celebrities could be themselves and just hang out. That was a nice place especially for the really famous ones. I couldn't imagine all of that attention. But I guess I would figure out sooner or later.

I didn't check E! News today.

***

Sure enough it was already on the radio. I knew Nick and I would be spotted sooner or later. I just didn't want to admit it.

What's the buzz with Nick Lucas? Turns out we've got a little love shining in all the Lucas Brothers. Sources say that he was spotted with his new co-star, Lily Patterson. Not only that, but Patterson is best friends with Bella Sandford, Joe Lucas' confirmed girlfriend. Is there something going on here? Tune in on E! News tonight.

"Yay," I said.

"Don't let it get to you," Nick said, "There've been worse cases."

"Yeah," I said, "You're right. I mean no one has proof."

"Exactly," he said kissing my cheek as we pulled up to the hangout. No one was out tonight. They were probably waiting for us back at the venue. We snuck out pretty well.

"Hey!" our friend Jennifer said as we entered. A bunch of people from the show were here. I wonder what they've been doing since the show was postponed until after the boys' tour, "How was the show?"

"It was amazing," I said, "They did so well."

"Can't wait to hear about the tour," Jennifer replied enthusiastically. She was a good friend, "Where's Bella and Joe?" I turned around to see Kevin and Danielle enter.

"Bella's not feeling well," I said, "Joe's taking her home."

"That's sweet," she said, "But you have my word. I won't tell a soul." Her smile faded when she looked pass me, "Oh, lovely." I turned around to see Taylor.

"Hey, Nick," I said, "Find us a table?"

"Sure," he smiled kissing me.

"Thanks," I said afterwards. As soon as he left I turned back to Jennifer, "What's up with you and Taylor?"
"She's such a diva," she said, "Trust me, my dad directed her last tour documentary and she was just a monster."

"Really?" I asked looking at her, "She seems nice."

"Yeah," she said, "To Joe."

"What?" I questioned more interested now, "What do you mean?"

"You didn't notice how much of a crush she has on him?" she said.

"Does she notice he's taken?" I replied. She shrugged her shoulders.

"Trust me," she said, "I don't think it matters that much to her." This was just strange. When I met Taylor, she came off as a nice girl. Why would she want to sabotage Joe and Bella's relationship before she even got to know her? Maybe Jennifer knew what she was talking about. I wouldn't pass judgment just yet. I would have to see it to believe it.

Bella's POV

"Joe, honestly," I said, "I'm alright. Just a little dizzy is all."

"Nonsense," he said, "My patient needs help." He rushed into the apartment room. I laughed as he put me down, "So are you sure you're okay?" I nodded then felt revolted. I zoomed down the hallway and burst through the bathroom.

"What is going on?" Lily's mom's voice came from behind me.

"Bella's not feeling well, Mrs. Patterson," Joe said politely.

"Did she eat anything?" she asked.

"I have no idea," he said as he rubbed my back. Lily's mother put her hand on my forehead.

"No fever," she said, "But she needs some water. I'll be back."

"Alright," Joe said politely, "Thank you." I heard the floor creak as Lily walked down the hallway.

"Your manners amaze me," I said.

"Thank you," he said.

"I've ruined tonight for you," I said, "I'm so sorry."

"You didn't ruin my night," he laughed, "If the night was ruined, I wouldn't be with you right now." I smiled even though he couldn't see me.

"We're going to have to postpone any lip contact," I said.

"Oh darn," he said sarcastically. I laughed and turned to face him. Lily's mom then walked through the door with a glass of water and a straw.

"Here," she said, "Its regular temperature. Cold water can give you stomach issues."

"Thanks," I smiled thankfully at Lily's mom.

"I'm sorry to leave you," she said, "But my husband and I were going to catch a late show. Joe, can you handle this?"

"Of course," he smiled, "I'll make sure Bella gets well."

"Thanks, kiddo," she said, "I'll see you guys when I get back."

"Bye," I said.

"Drink it," he said after Lily's mom went out the door.

"Yes, sir," I laughed taking the glass of water from him and began drinking the water. After a huge and grateful gulp I looked up at him.

"So what's this about?" he asked, "You and Taylor. I mean you've just met."

"I know," I replied, "I don't know what's wrong with me. I hate the feeling of being an overly protective girlfriend."

"This isn't the first time Taylor's come on this way," Joe said, "I've heard stories."

"They're probably just stories," I said, "Besides, I'd rather not make another enemy here."

"Thanks, Bells," he said. I smiled and drank the rest of my water. Joe took the cup after I was completely finished. Then I yawned, "You're exhausted. C'mon." I tried to stand up and did a lot better than last time. Lily's mom was a savior and so was Joe.

"Hold on a sec?" I asked. He nodded and went outside the bathroom, shutting the door behind me. I found my toothbrush right away. After brushing my teeth twice then taking nearly have the bottle of mouth wash, I opened the door again.

"Hey," Joe said, "What was that about?" I quickly crushed my lips against his. He was caught of guard but began to kiss back.

"Could you tell I got sick?" I asked.

"Not at all," he whispered kissing me again, "Gosh, I love you." I laughed. But then I yawned again, that sudden burst of energy in me faded. Joe smiled as I began to fall forward, into his arms, "That wasn't hard. I just wish what happened with you?"

"I don't know," I said, "I was fine all day."

"It happens I guess," he said, "You should sleep." He laced his fingers behind me lifting me up on his feet as we both began walking towards my room. I felt tired but I wanted to wait until Lily got back. I didn't want to go to sleep on the night of her birthday. I had to wait.

Joe laid me in my bed; I sat up, trying to look okay. Joe examined me and chuckled, "Your feeble attempt to look relatively stable sucks."

"At least I tried," I smiled.

"Go to sleep," he laughed. I shook my head.

"There is no way I'm going to sleep now," I said, "Not when it's Lily's birthday and especially not when you're leaving tomorrow."

"Don't worry," he replied, "Everything's going to be fine. As soon as you're done with the whole court appearance, you're going to come back and then, everything will be back to the way it was." There was some sort of problem there. I just didn't remember what it was.

Joe took my hand and squeezed it, "And don't let him near you. Stay safe. Promise me."

"I promise," I said meaning it. Joe smiled and nodded.

"Good," he said, "I love you."

"I love you too," I said.

Boy was I in for a crazy few days.

Lily's POV

"Hey," I said walking into Bella's room, "How are you feeling?"

"Don't worry about," Bella said, "I'm sorry I ruined your birthday."

"Nonsense," I laughed, "You couldn't possibly ruin my birthday, Bells."

"Good to know," she replied still unsure. Nick, Kevin, Danielle, and I left the club and Taylor departed shortly after. I still don't see how she could have a bad cell in her body. The night went really smooth. But I still trusted Jennifer's judgment.

"Well, I guess I'm all set for tomorrow," I said. Bella popped her eyes open.

"Oh gosh," she said, "I forgot you still had to pack. Are you sure you have everything under control?"

"Well, define under control," I replied batting my eyelashes. She smiled and climbed out of bed. Joe was sitting across from her, plucking a guitar. When she stumbled we both went for her. She raised her hands after she straightened out.

"I'm not made of glass guys," she laughed, "I'm fine." Joe stood up anyway.

"Just to make sure you don't fall," he said.

"Am I that clumsy?" she asked. Joe and I looked at each other then nodded at her. She pushed Joe and began walking towards my room. Joe and I followed her.

"She's holding up," I whispered.

"For now," Joe chuckled, "I wouldn't get your hopes up."

"Right," I whispered ever quieter back, "Anyway there's something you need to know."

"About what?" he asked.

"T-" I began. Bella then stopped and turned around.

"I can hear you," she said, "What is going on?"

"Nothing," I replied.

"Bull," she said.

"Honestly," I said lying as best as I could. She eyeballed me for a few more seconds then turned back around and walked in my room. We both followed.

I didn't realize how much instruments we had laying around. My mom brought a keyboard for Bella just in case; it was in my room anyway. I can play too. Just not as good. Well… I can play my ABC's which is also Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. That's basically it right there… yeah.

"You know," Bella said going through my suitcase, "You did good. Normally I'd have to do this for you." She turned towards me.

"Yeah," I said, "I mean I'm not completely done yet but I've learned from the best." She laughed.

"Well, let's see how you do," she replied sitting in front of the keyboard.

"I don't get how packing is such an accomplishment for girls," Joe said sitting next to Bella.

"We're girls," I said, "What do you expect?" Joe laughed. I began searching for my things then spotted the photo album Joe made for my birthday. I sat down and began looking through it as Bella began to play something beautiful. I looked up and smiled at her. Joe was resting his chin on her shoulders, watching her fingers make magic. She couldn't help but smile. Although I was surprised she went near the keyboard at all. The whole Julliard thing we down after she stayed away from instruments. But she couldn't expect it to not build up again after the beautiful song she just played.

"So what's the exact plan here?" I asked.

"Well," Bella said, "Tomorrow I'm going to leave right around the same time you do. On the tenth I'm going to meet you… um, where exactly is that?"

"Um, Albuquerque?" Joe guessed, "At least that's what I think."

"Right," she replied smiling at him, "Then when the tours over… I have to go back."

"Right," I said, "But hey, I'll come back with you; help you out."

"But Joe will just sit on the sidelines?" Joe joked, "Not a chance." Bella kissed him. There was a knock at my door. When I looked up, Nick was in the hallway.

"Hey," Nick said, "Um, just wanted to stop by."

"Um," I mimicked, "Come here." He smiled and walked next to me. I kissed him; not too long but just right.

"I'm so nervous for tomorrow," Nick said.

"Why?" I asked.

"He always gets that way," Joe said still staring deeply at Bella. It was a stare that meant: I almost forgot. I can make you do something just by looking at you. It made me laugh just a little. But Bella was full of surprises. She took it on like a challenge. Nick leaned in towards my ear.

"What do you think their doing?" he whispered.

"Don't ask," I said, "Let's get out of here." We snuck out as quietly as we could, going to the front living room. We both just sat down and took in a sigh.

"It's been a long day," he said.

"It's been a long perfect day," I repeated, "Thank you." Nick smittenly smiled and pulled me closer to him. I didn't realize the TV was on until I saw Nick and I being spotted… not even two hours ago?

Oh, my Lucas! This is the most recent photo we had just received from the dynamic duo Nick Lucas and Lily Patterson; not giving names of course. The same source with the photo had quoted, "It is clear that these two are crazy about each other. It was bound to happen since Joe and Bella are so in love." What's going on Lucas'? They are always trying very hard to keep their relationships private; but not with these lovely BFFs. More news with Ryan on the Daily Ten.

"Oh, my gosh," I said sitting up from Nick's arms infuriation boiling inside of me, "Who did this?!"

Bella's POV

"Are they gone?" I whispered. Joe nodded. We decided to get rid of Lily and Nick; give them some time alone; give us some time alone. I mean, sure, we've had plenty of time alone but plenty is just never enough when it comes to us. We were conjoined at the hip you could say, "Why are you still looking at me like that?"

"You know why," Joe said resting his forehead on mine. I didn't want to look at him now, knowing that this impulse I had when he gave me that face worked. I just didn't think he would try it.

"Please, Joe," I said, "I am begging you."

"I can't," he said, "I have to."

"I won't do it," I said sadness clear in my voice, "You know why I won't do it."

"Bella," he said, "You have no idea how good this would be for you. You don't need this. You don't need people chasing you with every step you take. You don't need to live in this madness with me."

"Why would you say that?" I asked hurt he would even think I didn't want this.

"Because," he sighed, "I sometimes feel like…"

"Like what," I said backing away from him.

"Like you could have so much better," he said looking up at me through his eyelashes. I shook my head in disbelief.

"Better than you?" I asked. He grimaced then slowly nodded. I stood up and began to walk away. Joe was already standing. I reached for the door knob (I guess Lily or Nick shut it on their way out) only for the door to be shut again by Joe.

"Bella," he said. I turned around, my arms folded across my chest.

"What," I said showing no emotion even though that hurt; a lot.

"I'm sorry," he said.

"I don't care," I replied unsure of why I said that, "You think that you can just say things like that. Say what's better for me? Joe I have parents for that; well sort of." Joe was smirking now, taunting, "I know what's best for me and-" in mid-sentence Joe covered my mouth with his hand.

"I know," he said, "That was wrong. I apologize. Let me reassure you that I love you more than anything on this earth. I would die here without you. You're one of the best things that has ever happened to me Bella. I need you. I would hate for you to feel like you have to stay here. I hope that's better than what I had said before." He dropped his hand from my mouth.

I didn't know what to say; what to think, "I understand what you're saying," I gulped. His eyes were apologetic but so intense; hypnotizing, "But I don't have to stay here. I want to. I want you."

It was quiet for a while. We just stood there, holding each other's hands. He suddenly laughed, "That was pretty clichéd. You know, 'I want to. I want you.'" I slapped his shoulder, laughing anyway.

"So," Joe said, "Do you forgive me?" I smiled and nodded; kissing him deeply.

"Who did this!?" yelled Lily from the other room. We both opened the door quickly then bolted out of Lily's room.

She was sitting down with Nick in the living room; watching TV. I stared at the screen. E! News was on. This couldn't be good.

"What happened?" Joe asked.

"Stupid E! is what happened," Lily said her knuckled white from his tightly forming fists. I transferred glances from Nick to Lily to the TV.

"What did they say?" I questioned.

"They said a source told them we were crazy about each other," Lily hissed through gritted teeth. She wasn't hissing at me. She was hissing at the news reporter ruining more lives in Hollywood, "And that it was expected due to you and Joe loving each other."

"This has to be someone we know," Nick said, "But who?"

"I know," I said grabbing my jacket.

"Where are you going?" Joe asked.

"A walk," I said my eyes burning with rage. I wanted some blood now. Heads are going to roll.

The blonde's gotta go.

***

How did I know where she lived? Gosh, I was full of surprises today. Joe knew to be smart and not follow me. He wouldn't want to witness this anyway. Taylor's place was full of people. I had no idea who they were but they seemed very high-class. Maybe it was because I was wearing holey jeans and a t-shirt.

I just walked in, apparently this was an open party. Or an open bar! There was a huge keg in the middle of her huge house. Hopefully that wasn't her idea. She's only nineteen right?

I had to weave my way through a couple hundred people until I finally saw her standing in the corner with some of her model-type friends. They were all laughing from something she must've said. I bravely approached her.

"Bella," Taylor said, "What's up?"

"I need to talk to you," I said, "Alone."

"Okay," she said sarcastically, like she was pretending to be afraid. Taylor lead the way. I followed as soon as the two other nudged me towards her. They were coming? I didn't have time to protest; I had to make this quick.

We finally found a place that was empty. A study or something? I wasn't sure. "So," she said, "What's happening?"

"Did you happen to catch E! tonight, Taylor?" I asked.

"What?" she questioned with a snicker following, "I have no idea what you're-"

"Cut it," I said, "I don't buy you're bullshit." She examined me up and down, smiling sinisterly.

"Very nice," she said circling behind me, "Very nice. You've got a little fight in you. And some brains." I rolled my eyes, "But you see, Bella, there are things I know about you. Things others don't know. Things E! would love to know."

"Oh yeah," I challenged, "Like what?" Taylor looked at one of the girls with us. She gracefully walked to the door and opened it up. Two familiar girls walked inside.

Amy and Sierra.

This was planned.

Taylor was hoping I would come here.

"You see," she began, "I met Amy and Sierra quite a while ago. They just happened to know who you were… and" she was very close now, "what happened to you these past months. So yeah, I released the story about your little friend. But that's not even half of what I could do."

"I'm not taking this," I said about to walk away.

"Oh, stay," Taylor sneered as the two model-like girls who accompanied her dug their nails into my arms and pushed me back to where I was previously standing, "You're going to want to hear this. How many ex-boyfriends does it take to make a girl go crazy? Care to take a stab?" I was frozen; she knew. She knew about everything. How did I know apart from the terms ex-boyfriend and stab? She reached over and lifted up my shirt, revealing the three scars on my abdomen.

She was going to tell the world.

"You don't know what you're getting yourself into," I said glaring at her. That was all I could now.

"I know very well actually," she said, "But down worry. I'm not going to tell a soul… that is, if you follow the proper conditions."

"What?" I asked confused. Then I realized she could do a thing, "Oh, you plan on blackmailing me? Is that right. Well you see here's the thing. Not only do you have zero proof but you have lack of brains. Not to mention that I have one of the best lawyers in the state on my side. And she doesn't give special treatment to country stars." I smirked as Taylor had realized she had been beat. She rolled her eyes.

"Out of my sight," she said. I chuckled, waved and Amy and Sierra, then walked out of that god-forsaken place.

Joe's POV

It was still pretty late but I wanted to know where the heck Bella went; although I had a pretty good guess ahead of me. As soon as she walked through the door I stood up and impatiently waited for her news.

"It was Taylor," she replied, "I am positive."

"What?" I asked not believing it, "That's absurd."

"Who else, Joe," Bella said.

"How do you even know?" I asked.

"Where to begin," she sighed, "Well she said she released the story then attempted to blackmail me."

"What, how?" Lily said. I didn't want this to be encouraged. I mean, Taylor was my friend. Bella noticed.

"Amy and Sierra told her about Glenn," she said.

"This is ridiculous," I said. Bella glared at me.

"We'll talk later," Lily said getting up with Nick. They silently moved down the hall. When I heard a door shut, I waited for her to say something. She just stood there looking down.

"You have to understand," she said after a while, "I wouldn't lie about this. I wouldn't lie to you." And like a knife in the heart she walked away; the door of her room shut quietly.

***

"I'll see you tomorrow, Lily," I said leaving, "Tell Bella I'm sorry?"

"Of course," she said waving, "Later." Nick and I walked out of the apartment. I sighed.

"I messed up," I said, "I know."

"I was hoping you would catch on," Nick said.

"Do you believe her?" I asked curiously.

"Well yeah," he said, "I mean I trust Bella more than Taylor. I don't think she'd lie about that."

"Yeah," I replied, "You're right."

"Do you want to go talk to her?" Nick asked.

"I don't know," I said. I kept walking although Nick's idea of turning around and explaining myself didn't seem like such a bad idea, "I think I'll let her simmer down."

"Really," Nick said, "I didn't hear her yell."

"She didn't," I said, "She just said that she wouldn't lie to me. She was so calm. Then she just walked away. I feel like such a jerk."

"It's natural to have bumps in the road," Nick said, "Even with Bella."

"But we're not the same anymore," I said, "It's like we'll never get back to normal."

"Yeah," Nick said, "But what is normal anyway? I mean the closest thing to normal for Bella would for her to be at home, alone and quiet."

"You're right," I said, "And I don't want her to be that way. But I think I'm affecting her life more than I thought. She doesn't want to be honest with me because I make her do things."

"You don't make her do things," Nick said, "Honestly; it's just tension. There's a lot going on. Bella's parents are getting married after tour. She has to look at Glenn's face again. You two are going to be apart for more than one day which is just painful to watch. You need each other."

"And I want her to leave," I said feeling like a complete idiot.

"And you want her to leave," Nick repeated confirming that was the answer.

"I can't believe I did this," I said, "I messed up bad."

"Nothing you can't fix," Nick smiled.

Bella's POV

There was a lot of tension that night. I wasn't mad at Joe for not believing me. I mean Taylor was his friend. But I didn't lie. I wouldn't lie to him. I just wouldn't. It didn't make me mad. It just broke my heart. I wanted him to come to me and tell me that he loved me… but he didn't. I don't know why but I began doubting everything about us.

I just have to think things through. I don't want to leave Joe. I love him. It's too late for going back. But I didn't have to lose myself, which was what was happening to me. I've become depressed; not like I was before I met Joe. That was just sulking. I didn't want to have friends, I didn't want to go to Hollywood. But then those perfect warm lips kissed mine and I knew there was no going back after that.

No there was no leaving Joe.

"Hey," Lily said. It was the next morning; she was leaving. And so was I. I had to get through this. Then I could go back and everything would be the way it should be.

"Hey," I said, grabbing my bags and heading for the door myself, "What's up?"

"Nothing," she said, "Can I help you with your stuff?"

"You don't have to," I said.

"I want to," she smiled.

"Sure," I said. She nodded and threw a bag on her shoulder. My van was right downstairs; Lily's mom was sleeping in. It was pretty silent most of the way downstairs. But then when we were by the front door, Lily cracked.

"Joe loves you," she said, "He told me to tell you that last night."

"He couldn't say it to me?" I asked. Lily chuckled.

"I think he wanted to give you some space," she replied.

"Do you think he'll show up?" I asked hoping for some reassurance.

"Yeah," Lily said, "I mean if you ask me, he'll definitely come. He wouldn't want you to leave mad at each other."

"I hope you're right," I admitted, "But I'm leaving in fifteen minutes."

"I don't want you to leave," Lily said giving me a hug, "We haven't been apart this long. Not ten days. It's just too much."

"I know," I said ridiculous tears welling in my eyes," But I have to. And I swear as soon as I get back, we're going to catch up on ever single thing. We're going to tell each other about the ten days from hell." She laughed.

"Good," she said, "I'll be right back?"

"Sure," I said. She waved then went back in the apartment room. I sat in the back of my van, the door wide open. It seemed quiet for the first time in a long time. It made me smile yet I wanted to share it with Joe. He wasn't going to come and I had to except that.

Suddenly my phone rang. I looked at the caller idea and relief surged through me like an electrocution. "Jay," I said, "Hey."

"Hey, Sandford," Jay said, "You coming soon?"

"Yeah," I said, "I'm excited to see you."

"I was hoping you would say that," Jay replied, "Because I have a surprise for you."

"Jay," I said, "What's going on?"

"You'll see," he laughed. I smiled and shook my head.

"I miss us," I said.

"BFFs," he mocked. I laughed again.

"You sure know how to make a girl feel better," I joked.

"Why, what's wrong?" he asked concerned now. Should I tell him? I mean, Joe and Jay had never really seen eye to eye. But they weren't total enemies either. Did that make sense? I don't know, I guess there is just some unexplained tension between them. I loved them both though.

"Nothing," I finally decided to say, "Look, I'm about to head out. I'll see you later?"
"Yeah," he said, "I can't wait. Bye."

"Bye," I said already knowing he hung up. I slapped my phone shut the sighed. Jay was one of my closest friends. I just didn't want to put him in the middle of all the Joe drama.

A car took a sharp turn on my street, zooming down my road. The car stopped right in front of me as Joe stumbled out. He quickly ran towards the door then looked at me. Knowing how stupid he looked he sighed and casually walked back down to me.

"I thought you left," he said.

"I was just going to," I said looking down. I felt his presence getting closer and closer until his chest was pressed up against mine. He kissed me as deep as he could. It was the most perfect and reassuring kiss I'd ever gotten from him. I fought back to kiss him as well. I didn't know what had gotten into him. He kissed me more and more running his hands through my hair. I smiled then pulled away.

"What-" he put a finger over my mouth.

"Ssssssssssssh," he said quietly, obviously out of breath, "You just have to know that I love you and I believe you. I'll always believe you."

"Okay," I said simply. Then I pulled him in to kiss him again.

Ugh, I am so sorry I have just been far too busy. My sister had a thing last weekend. My brother has basketball games all the time. And I'm just realllllly tired from school. I'm hoping I can get back on my regular posting schedule because I want to share what's going to come up soon! Keep reading! You won't be disappointed! I love reviews.