CHAPTER 10:
May 1, 2008 the day every Jonas brothers' fans have been waiting. Everyone is busy that morning for the concert that would be held in London's biggest stadium. Yet, it'll still be in the evening! Fans are just so excited and they're out to buy new clothes for the concert. Meanwhile, in room 2F of an apartment building, Lila is still in bed. It is also a bit gloomy that day and luckily the stadium is covered. Lila is hugging a big comfy pillow and is wrapped in a wool blanket. She really sleeps a lot especially in cold days. As she sleeps, she heard voices. Murmuring voices to be exact. She thought it was just in her mind, but it seems to get clearer. She opened a sleepy eye and then the other. at first, it was a blur of sunny colors. It's weird because it's gloomy outside, but she's seeing something bright. Her vision started to get clearer and she saw Marissa and her cousin watching her; giggling.
"M-Marissa?" Lila mumbled and slowly sat up.
"Good morning, sleepy head. Do you know what day it is today?" Marissa said with a big grin.
Lila stopped stretching her arms and made her think. She has no clue what the occasion is. She doesn't even own a calendar.
"Are we going back to the US already?" Lila guessed.
Marissa chuckled and so did little Jeremiah. They couldn't believe that she could forget such an important day.
"It's your birthday!" Jeremiah exclaimed and raised both hands up.
Birthday? Lila thought. My birthday is the 1st of May. Is it may already?
Lila leaned towards the ground and grabbed her green body bag under the night table. She reached inside for her cellphone to check the date. It shows 'May 1'. She took a sigh and massages her head.
"It's my birthday"
Marissa told Jeremiah to tell the others that Lila is awake. The little boy walked out, thumb sucking, then closed the door. The sisters were alone.
Lila leaned on her headboard, massaging her temples. She just couldn't really believe that it's her birthday. She is now nineteen, nearly an adult. Marissa looked at her sister and felt kind of unsure. "Anyways, I overheard your conversation with aunt last night" Marissa shared.
Lila nearly forgot that she and Marissa are not in good terms and she overheard their conversation. she was about to explain, but Marissa decided to go first.
"I'm willing to break up with Joe just for you" she said.
Lila is so shock to hear that. She faced her sister, grabbing both of her hands.
"Are you insane? Don't do that because of me, it's all in the past!" Lila exclaimed.
"Come on, Lila. You expect me to believe that you don't like him? I'm not that gullible"
"But, you-"
"Don't worry, sis. If I want my guy to be with another woman, I want it to be someone trustworthy."
Okay, it is awkward. Lila's sister is giving up her boyfriend just for her. Typical teenagers won't do that for someone else's happiness. What would Lila do? Even if she likes Joe, it's too late.
"I don't know, Marissa" Lila said sadly, "You saw what happened. I made the famous Joe Jonas, cry"
Marissa let go of her sister's hand and move from her bed to Lila's. She wrapped her arms around Lila and kissed her on the head.
"Don't worry, sis. I'm sure Joe forgot about that and look what I got"
Lila looked at what her sister is holding. Jonas brothers' tickets for their whole family and is all in the VIP side.
"The other Jonas just arrived this morning and aunt Denise sent these as a birthday gift to you" Marissa explained.
Lila smiled and hugged her sister back. She never expected that she'll be talking to her sister again and she's very glad.
"Let's worry about the concert later and I want to see the surprise you have for me" Lila said with a grin.
Holding hands, the sisters walked out of the room happily.
Pop!
As they got out of the room, confetti fired up everywhere. Everyone was there in the living room, singing a happy birthday for her, even aunt Gertrude.
There is 'Happy birthday, Lila!' sign everywhere. Everyone have their party hats and Wendy is carrying the home made cake Grammy did, with a single candle. Milo and Selma approached her to give her hugs and kisses. Lila feels really happy. It's been awhile since she celebrated her birthday with her whole family. Everyone headed to the dining table and it's loaded with great food. There were spaghetti, fried chicken, cupcakes filled with icings and a big pepperoni pizza. Gertrude started to boast that she made the pizza while Wendy boasted about her spaghetti. They all take a sit and digs in. it can't be denied that Lila is very happy to be with the whole family. Not only are they complete, but Gertrude is beginning to like her.
The London hotel, also that morning, is surrounded by crazy Jonas fans and paparazzo. Kevin Sr., Denise and Frankie Jonas just arrived at the hotel and are standing at the lobby with their luggage. Fans screams as they saw the Jonas brothers went out of the elevator. Nick ran to his mother to give her a hug, Kevin hugged their dad, and Joe messes up little frankie's hair. It's a family reunion and they'll be going around London as a whole family until the second week of may. Denise and Kevin ask their sons how their stay was, while Joe turned his back from them. He's busy typing a text.
Hey Lila,
Uh, happy birthday! I, uh, hope ur having a gr8 tym. Take care and love you. 3
He browsed through his contacts and pressed 'Lila'. He stared at the 'Send message to Lila?' text on the screen of his phone. He's having a second thought whether he'll send it or not. While he's deciding, someone touched him on his shoulders. It was his mother. Joe hurriedly pressed a button on his phone and placed it in his pocket. He doesn't know what button he had pressed.
Joe hugged his mother so tight and kissed her on the cheek.
"Hey, mom" he said nicely.
"Hey, honey. How are you?" Mrs. Jonas asks, caressing Joe's adorable face "Isn't it Lila's birthday today?"
"Yes, it is. She's already nineteen"
"That's nice; I hope to see her soon. It's been awhile since I last saw her. Is she still the same?"
"Yeah, mom. She's still beautiful"
"Your girlfriend, Marissa, welcomed us at the airport so we gave her whole family concert tickets for your concert"
Joe just smiled. Hearing the word girlfriend made him feel uneasy. He's going to let the whole world hear the song he made for Lila even though he's still in a relation. Nick approached his mom, wrapping his arms over Mrs. Jonas' shoulders.
"Come on, mom. Let's go to the room" he suggested.
The belly boys took their luggage and they all got in the elevator.
It started to drizzle that morning and everyone is in their jackets, rain coats and umbrellas. Lila and her whole family are out to go window shopping. Lila and Marissa looked at one of the store's window; it is a jewelry store. They saw lots of beautiful necklaces that are displayed. There is simple necklace with the same pendant as the one Lila is wearing. Except that the color of the stone is lavender.
"That pendant is really pretty" Lila remarked.
Marissa looked at her sister with a smile, "Well, do you want me to buy it for you?"
"Oh, nononono. It's okay, you guys made me so happy today I couldn't ask for more"
They continued to stroll and start to get colder. Lila is starting to get left behind. She watched them and saw that they're having a great time. Her dad and Selma are happy in each other's arms; Wendy and Gertrude are listening to Grammy's cooking techniques and Marissa talking to Jeremiah. Despite the happy occasion, Lila couldn't forget another event on that day. It's her late mom's sixth death anniversary. Though it's a sad moment, Lila tried not to cry or feel bad. Her mother clearly told her before she died, that she has to stay strong. And she really tried her best to be a lot stronger. Besides, it's her birthday and there's the concert too.
It wasn't getting any sunnier in London city and workers are busy preparing the stadium for the big concert. Some people are fixing the stage and lights, some are testing every microphone, and others assemble the instruments. It's really an exciting day and the Jonas brothers and their family are there already to rehearse. Violet is also there, wearing a silver spaghetti strapped top, almond bolero, white knee length pants and silver flats. She was actually introduced by Nick to his parents as his girlfriend. Mr. and Mrs. Jonas liked her instantly, thinking that she's a very sweet girl. Kevin is playing the electric guitar, practicing, alongside Nick and Joe. Ricky listened to them, singing the new song and he liked it so much. He thinks it'll be a big break.
Noon time, the Williams decided to go home already so they could still have time to prepare for the concert and so they wouldn't wait in a never ending line of crazy fans. The cab stopped in front of the apartment building and Milo helps his mom go out of the cab. Wendy and Gertrude raced towards the building like a bunch of kids and Marissa joined them. Lila is the last one to get out of the cab and the driver drove off as soon as she closed the door. She wrapped her arms around her as she walks up the creaky stairs. Lila could hear her family in a panic before could even reach for the door. She came in and saw the living, dining area and kitchen, empty. Everyone is in their perspective rooms, deciding what to wear for the concert.
Are they that excited about the concert? She thought.
She went in their room and saw a big mess. There were clothes all over the floor, table, chair, bed and even her side of the room. It's everywhere. She picked everything she passes by and approached her sister at the closet.
"It's just a concert, sis" Lila reminded.
Marissa turned to her in a sulky way, with clothes in her hands.
"That's the problem. I don't have anything suitable for concerts"
Dresses, miniskirts and other girly clothes are all Marissa owns. It's not really what a typical girl would wear at a concert. It's way too risky. Lila rolled her eyes and placed the clothes she picked, on the bed. She opened her closet and looked for something she could lend Marissa. Unlike her sister, Lila wears something that could be worn in any occasions. Jeans and shirts. And maybe, just maybe, that's the reason she doesn't get any dates. She showed her a pair of black skinny jeans, a yellow fitted shirt with a 'little miss sunshine' on it. It'll look good on blondie.
"You could wear these and I'm sure you have a pair of flats that would match these" Lila said with a grin.
Marissa took it from her sister and felt very touched, "Thanks so much, Lila"
She raced on her way to the bathroom to take a relaxing bubble bath. Lila, on the other hand, puts the other clothes back inside the closet. She sat down on her soft bed and looked at the greeting cards she received. It was from her parents, sister, aunts, Grammy, violet and Mrs. Jonas. Even Jeremiah made a drawing of their whole family around a cake. Lila smiled and reads each letter.
Kriing. Kriing. Kriing.
The phone on the living room started ringing and Lila went out to answer it.
"Hello?" she said.
"Lila, is that you? Happy birthday!" the voice from the other end said.
It was Nick, very happy to hear his friend's beautiful voice. Lila felt flattered.
"Oh, hey Nick. Thanks so much!" she answered, "Uhm, where are you right now?"
"We're here at the stadium, rehearsing. Violet is also here"
"Lila sat down on the couch, listening to what Nick is saying. She even heard on the back ground Kevin, singing happy birthday.
"So, are you guys coming?" Nick asked.
"Yeah, everyone here is excited. We'll be leaving in ten minutes"
"Well okay, cool. Hey, I have to go back rehearsing. Happy birthday again"
"Thanks"
Lila hangs up the phone and went back to their room. Marissa just finished her bath and is wearing the clothes her sister lends her. It fits her perfectly and follows the curves of her body. She turned around and raised both arms.
"What do you think?" she asked excitedly.
Lila is so stunned. Everything her sister wears looks good on her. She's like Barbie. Lila nodded and looked at her from head to toes.
"Yeah, you look amazing!" Lila exclaimed.
The others were also ready and milo was already at the door.
"Lila! Marissa! Hurry up, we'll wait for the both of you downstairs" milo shouted and closed the door. Marissa hurried up and grabbed her camera and so is Lila's wrist, but Lila wouldn't move. She turned around and Lila just smiled, "What's wrong?" Marissa asked.
"Well, I,uh, won't come" Lila finally said.
"What? Why?"
Lila sighs and takes a sit at the end of her bed. Marissa did the same. She doesn't really know how to say that she didn't want to go but she managed to say it.
"Well, I just don't feel like going?" Lila explained.
"Is it about Joe? You know you don't have to worry about him" Marissa said.
Lila shook her head. She tried very hard not to let it all show on her face that that is the reason. "No, it's not about him. I just don't really like going to concerts. I get head aches"
Marissa smirks and pretended she buys Lila's excuse. She stood up and hugged her sister before leaving.
"Okay, but I'm leaving your ticket if you ever change your mind" she said and walked out of their room and places the ticket on top of the coffee table.
Marissa walked out of their apartment unit and Lila locked it. She walked across the room and peeked through the balcony door. Marissa ran towards the black van and milo tried to get out. It looks like Marissa already told their dad that Lila wouldn't be coming. Lila crossed her finger and hopes her father won't go up to talk to her. Milo calmed himself and moved aside to let Marissa in and they drove off. Lila felt relieved.
Lila spread the curtains and the balcony door is already covered. She went in their room and noticed a pink blinking light on top of her bed. It was her phone and she never noticed that someone texted her. She flips her phone and reads the message.
Hey Lila,
Uh. Happy birthday! I hope ur having a gr8 tym. Take care and love you 3
She looked at who sent it and who else can it be, but Joe. She lied down on her bed and bit her thumb.
Joe remembered, she thought.
Though Lila said nasty things to Joe, he still took time to greet her a happy birthday. She buried her face on her knees and moaned loud.
Outside London's biggest stadium, stalls were set up for Jonas brothers' merchandise and for glow sticks. The sun is setting and as predicted, millions of fans are lined up outside waiting for the gates to open. the concert will be shown live on TV that night, so fans who can't make it to the concert still see it. The camera rolled and fans are really getting wild. They are wearing clothes with the Jonas' pictures, names, and pins on it. They also brought their own personalized placards and gifts for the Jonas. A black van parked at the parking lot; Marissa went out and is very amazed to see people lining up just to see the Jonas. Well, for Marissa, it's just a small deal since she's already a friend of theirs.
Grammy looked around and felt really excited. She's wearing a blue long sleeved shirt and blue long skirt.
"It's been awhile since I've been to a concert. I hope it's like Josh Groban" she said.
The whole family turned their eyes on the old woman. Clearly, she hasn't heard the sound of the Jonas brothers. Gertrude chuckled and covered her mouth.
"Believe me, grandma. It's no josh Groban." Gertrude explained.
So, they already went on their way in and they need not to stand up in line. They're a family friend of the Jonas and are invited by them.
At the backstage, everyone is busy. Staff checks the microphones that will be used, the sounds, lighting, and everything. Nick is warming up, Kevin is practicing on his guitar while Joe harmonized his voice with the make-up artist putting powder on his face. Marissa went backstage and saw everyone in a hurry. She looked around and heard a familiar voice. She walked towards Joe as quietly as possible and tapped him on the back. Joe looked around and is surprised to see Marissa. He hugged her tight and kissed her on the cheek.
"Oh, hey Marissa" he said nicely.
Marissa looked at him from head to toe and he is wearing a white long sleeved polo underneath a gray vest, then a pair of black skinny jeans, white sneakers and the hot he wore on the SOS vid. "Wow, looking good" Marissa said.
Joe felt flattered and grinned, "Uh, thanks. Is your whole family here?"
"Oh, yeah. Even Grammy is here, but-"
"But?"
"Lila isn't coming"
Just as Joe was feeling so excited, hearing that Marissa's whole gamily came, his full spirit was gone when she said Lila isn't coming. For him, the whole concert is dedicated to Lila. He even made two songs for her! Marissa looked at him and saw that it really affected him. She slowly smiled and tilted Joe's chin.
"Don't worry, I'm sure Lila would change her mind" she cheered.
"What? I'm not worried about her" Joe replied with a laugh.
Yeah, right. The way he said it really showed how he feels; His eyes are worried. He's starting to be a bad liar. Marissa grabbed his hand and they went in one corner where there's no one around. Joe doesn't really know what she's up to. Marissa looked around if someone's trying to listen then she turned to Joe.
"Is something wrong?" he asked worriedly.
That moment is the perfect time for them to talk and it's a sacrifice Marissa is willing to do. She took a deep breath and looked straight into Joe's eyes.
"I know about your feelings for Lila" she blurted out.
Ookay, that took Joe's full attention to the point that his brown eyes widened. He started to stutter, not really knowing how to explain it to his girlfriend. But, Marissa filled in before Joe swallows his own tongue.
"It's cool, you don't have to worry about it" Marissa said, "I actually want you and my sister to be together"
"Are you sure with what you're talking about or are you drunk?" Joe asked. It's like he misheard everything Marissa is saying.
"Since when do I drink? Anyways, I'm sure. I'm breaking up with you so you can be with Lila"
"Are you really sure you don't drink?"
"YES! And all I know is Lila is pretty messed up without you around"
"Really? I mean, I'm sure she doesn't want to see me anymore"
"Believe me, she wants to. She just doesn't know how to face you"
Marissa took both of Joe's warm smooth hands and smiled at him, "I'm here to support you, alright?" she said.
It's very weird that she's supporting her ex. Joe hugged his now ex-girlfriend so tight. He couldn't believe that Marissa didn't get mad. He must admit he has the most understanding ex-girlfriend. Marissa let go of him as soon as she remembered something. She reached inside her pants pocket for a piece of folded paper. She handed it to Joe. Joe unfolded it and there's a phone number written on t and some description.
"If you haven't bought any gift for Lila, that number might help you"
Hoe thanked her so much and ran to the dressing room to make a quick phone call.
Kevin just finished practicing the new chords and took off his electric guitar. He puts it aside for awhile and looked for Joe to ask some questions. Unfortunately he didn't found Joe. Instead, he found Marissa crying in one corner. He ran to her side to make sure she's alright.
"Hey, you alright?" he asked, handing her his blue hanky.
Marissa looked up at him with her soggy eyes and she tried to smile, "Yeah, I just told Joe I'll support him" she shared.
Kevin felt kind of proud of what she did, yet sad. He also likes Lila, but he never got the chance to express his feelings to her. He pulled Marissa to her chest and kissed her head. All they wish from that moment onwards, is that everyone to be happy.
"Don't worry, I'm here" Kevin said.
Back at the apartment, Lila sat on the soft sofa with a bag of potato chips and a bottle of soda. She flipped through the channels in a comfortable way. She's wearing a violet long sleeved shirt with two white stripes on the sleeves, underneath an orange shirt, a pair of blue jeans and purple flats. She also, for the first time, laid her hair loose with an orange hair clip on the side. Lila tucked her right foot under her left leg and opened her bag of chips. Her plan that night is to have a movie marathon, but unfortunately there are no movies on. Every channel is news about the big concert and if ever she's lucky enough to find a movie, it's in a different language. She stayed in the live telecast of the concert and threw the remote beside her.
Bummer, she thought and munched on her junk food.
The stadium was instantly filled with screaming fans, holding up placards and glow sticks. The parents of the Jonas together with little Frankie are in the front row with the Williams. Grammy covered her ears and looked around.
"Oh, good lord!"
The stadium got darker and there was a countdown on the screen. As soon as it reached number one, fireworks around the stage fired up showing three guys coming from under the stage. Screams filled the stadium and the band started to play the intro of SOS. Joe moved forward and points at them, "Hello, London!" Joe said with his microphone. "Thank you all for coming!"
They started to sing and fans sang along with them.
Click.
Lila changed the channel to a French black and white drama. She might not understand it, but it's the only channel without the Jonas. She stared at the TV, but something kept on disturbing her. She smoothly looked down at the glass coffee table and saw the ticket and VIP pass. Every time she looks at it, she could see her sister's face and hear her say, "I'll leave this here in case you want to change your mind"
Lila grunted so loud and marched on her way to their room and slammed the door shut.
It began to rain at London city, but the concert is just warming up. the Jonas even made some time to joke around fans in between performances. At the corridor of the stadium, fans made a quick trip to the bathroom and felt that they're missing a lot. They come across a girl, Lila to be specific. It looks like she couldn't resist the ticket after all. There were two guards at the entrance, checking the tickets and all she has to do is show hers. But, she's starting to have second thoughts.
"Lila, is that you?" a voice asked.
Lila turned around to find out that it is Mrs. Jonas. She's so glad to see her that she gave Mrs. Jonas a tight hug.
"Aunt Denise, it's very nice to see you!" she said happily.
Mrs. Jonas felt the same way and gave her a kiss on the cheeks. "Me too, and happy birthday" Mrs. Jonas said. "I'm glad you came. Marissa told us you couldn't come"
"Well, you know, I couldn't waste the ticket you gave us"
"Oh, come on! Let's get inside"
Just as they were about to go in, Lila suddenly sneezed. She turned red, feeling so embarrassed with the commotion she did. Mrs. Jonas, however, looked at her worriedly.
"Dear, do you have a cold?" she asked worriedly.
Lila sniffled a little and shyly smiled at the nice lady. To be honest, she felt weird. Her nose is runny and her throat sores.
"I guess I caught one. I actually walked all the way here" Lila said.
Denise gasped with what she heard. She might not know where Lila lives, but she knows that it's chilly outside. She took Lila to the Jonas brothers' dressing room. Mrs. Jonas closed back the door and looked for some jacket she could lend to the young girl. Lila, meanwhile, looked around. It's her first time to be in a celebrity's dressing room. Like, she still needs to. She looked around and it was pretty messy. There were clothes around, water guns, and a soft ball. Typical guy stuff. Mrs. Jonas went back to her with a jacket.
"Raise your hands, dear. Let's put this on you" Mrs. Jonas said.
And so, Lila did what she's told. She raised her arms and Mrs. Jonas puts on the jacket on her. Lila flipped her hair and brushed her bangs. The jacket made her feel warmer. She stood in front of the mirror and looked at the jacket so surprise. She slowly touches the fabric. It's soft, warm, and Joe's. It was the same blue hoodie that Joe once left in their apartment. It still even smells like his perfume!
The stadium door opened and Lila went in together with Mrs. Jonas. Lila walked through the aisle quite astonished. She never expected to see the stadium full of fans. They went to the front row and everyone is happy that Lila made it. She sat in between Frankie and violet, and then they watched the guys. Nick just took off his neck tie and rolled the sleeves of his polo up. He went to the piano and sits, Kevin puts on his other electric guitar, while Joe fixes the stand of the microphone. The fans are still getting crazy and didn't even felt that it's getting cold. Joe's face is all sweaty and red from the performance.
"Okay, uhm. We're going to perform a new song" Joe said and breathes heavily.
"It's about a guy telling what he feels when that girl looks at him"
Kevin then talked on his microphone, "Yes, and it's written by our very own Joe Jonas!"
The fans screamed even more when they heard it was made by Joe.
Joe smiled, "It's entitled when you look me in the eyes"
Nick and Kevin started the intro together with the other instrumentalists.
If the heart is always searching
Can you ever find a home?
I've been looking for that someone
I'll never make it on my own
Lila watched intently and she's smiling all the time and little Frankie noticed it. He pulls Lila's sleeve to get her attention and he did. Lila looked down at the little boy and leaned towards him.
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" Frankie shouted. They were near the stage and the amplifiers. Lila grinned at him and kissed him on the cheek. She shouted back, "Thanks so much!"
Second verse already and Joe walked around the stage. He went to the right side, middle and the right. He turned to the right side beside the piano and looked down.
I wish she could hear this, he thought.
He smiled at his favorite audience from right to left; Dad, mom, Frankie, violet, Lila, violet-Lila?
In the middle of a performance, Joe suddenly stopped singing. Fans started to wonder what happened to him. Luckily, Nick filled in for his brother's part of the song.
More and more
I start to realize
I can reach my tomorrow
I can hold my head up high
Is this true? Joe thought staring down at the VIPS. Or am I just imagining that Lila is here?
Everyone is worried about him, including Lila. He's making a big fool out of himself just standing there.
"SING!"
Joe snapped out of it when he heard that distinct voice out of all the screaming fans. It came from Lila. I'm not imagining.
He took the microphone out of the stand and started to sing again.
When you look me in the eyes
I catch a glimpse of heaven
I find my paradise
When you look me in the eyes
Fans screamed when the song ended. Backstage, ricky is so happy that the fans loved the song. Lila, on the other hand, fell on her seat. She's just relieved that Joe came back to his senses. Before doing the next song, Nick and Kevin approached Joe.
"Dude, what's wrong?" Kevin whispered.
Blank.
He didn't move or even said anything. The two Jonas followed the look on Joe's eyes and they might have got the idea of what's wrong. Nick took the microphone from the stand and so did Kevin. It's another 'bonding time' with the fans and everyone screamed.
"Okay, Kevin. I think it'll be better if we pick one lucky fan, am I right?" Nick suggested.
Kevin nodded and looked around the fans. Everyone screams and hopes that she'll be the lucky girl that'll share the stage with the most adorable guys. But of course, Nick and Kevin have someone on mind already. He points at each one of them and finally stopped.
"The pretty lady beside frank the tank!"
Cameras went to that direction and Lila is so shocked to see her face on the screen. She didn't even want to go, but her family and the Jonas kept on pushing her. Nick even came down to accompany her to go up the stage.
Fans were so envious with Lila and wished that it could've been them. Lila went up the stage, very shy, with Nick beside her. They were standing in the middle of the stage and Kevin gave her a hug. Lila felt weird when Kevin hugged her. Well, Kevin hugs her all the time, but she never felt weird. Except for this moment. Maybe, it's because they're in front of millions of fans and is shown around the world. They let go of each other and Lila caught a glimpse of Joe. He is smiling at her and so did she. It felt more awkward.
So this is what fans feel when they're with their favorite celebrities, she thought.
The screaming never stopped and so did the show.
"So, miss. What is your name?" Nick asked with a suppressed smile.
Lila tried not to look confused with what they're trying to do and played along. Nick places the microphone he's holding, in front of Lila.
"I, uh, am Lila Williams"
"Are you from here, in London?"
"No. my family came here from America for a vacation"
"Oh that's nice"
Kevin then stood beside Lila and noticed what she is wearing, "Love that blue hoodie. Say Joe, don't you have something like that?"
No answer.
He's just too mesmerized to see Lila in front of him. He was like day dreaming, except that it's night. Kevin nudged him on the side and he came back to his senses again.
"Yeah. That looks so hot" Joe finally said.
The fans screamed more loudly while the Williams and Jonas were surprised. They tried not to laugh and so did Nick, Kevin and Lila. Joe just realized what he said and felt that he got possessed by Paris Hilton or something. He covered his eyes with his left arm and felt like a dork. He started turning red and has this embarrassed smile. Fans loved it, he was so cute. Kevin approached his younger brother and pats him on the shoulders, "Sorry, guys. He had too much coke today"
Everyone laughed and thought how cute they really are.
"So, anyways" Nick butted in, "Lila, is there anything special for you today?" Kevin asked.
"It's actually my nineteenth birthday today"
Nick acted so surprised with what he heard and so did Kevin.
"What? Well, happy birthday!" Nick said and hugged and kissed Lila.
Ahhhhh! The fans are getting wilder and wilder and envied Lila more. It's like she's the luckiest girl on earth.
"Well, why don't we sing a happy birthday for her?" Kevin suggested. "To everyone who's celebrating their birthday today…"
Everyone claps and starts to sing:
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday, happy birthday
Happy birthday to you
Confetti popped all over the place and everyone screamed. Back stage crew members went out on the stage to place four black stool and two classic guitars for the next performance. They stick back their microphones on the stand and Nick faced Lila with a grin. "Okay, Lila. Since you're the lucky fan, we'd like to dedicate this song for you" Nick said and started to play the intro along Kevin. "It's a song once again made by Joe Jonas. It called please be mine"
Joe starts patting his right thigh then looked into Lila's gorgeous brown eyes.
They come and go
But they don't know
that you are my beautiful
I tried to become closer with you
But they all say we won't make it through
The screams of the fans and strumming of guitars wouldn't sink in Lila's mind. All she could hear is Joe's beautiful voice and all she could see is his godly face.
Thum-thunp. Thump-thump.
Lila clutched on to chest.
What's this? Lila thought. I feel so tingly inside with Joe's stare. I have to admit, it feels good inside.
Not only is she falling in love, she starts to feel woozy. She could hear the screaming and guitars already and could see everything. The spotlight was on them that made her feel woozier. But, all of a sudden, something warm touched her hand. It was Joe, holding her cold hand. She felt weirder as if her heart is going to explode any second now.
I will not disappoint you
I will be right there for you
Till the end, the end of time
Please be mine
After the song, the crowd applauded for them, but Joe didn't mind. All that matters for him is that he's with Lila. But, not for long. When Joe was about to talk to her, Lila slipped her hand away from Joe's and hurriedly went down the stage. She approached Mrs. Jonas with her hand massaging her head.
"Aunt Denise, could I stay at the dressing room for awhile? I feel very dizzy" Lila said.
Indeed, she is unwell. Her face went pale and sweaty from the loud all that is happening around her. Her family starts to worry, but Denise told them she'll look after Lila. They got out of the stadium and it was peaceful at the corridor. Lila couldn't help it anymore and her legs collapsed. Denise shrieked and some security ran to their aid. Lila is breathing heavily and couldn't open her eyes from the terrible headache. It feels like her head is getting squished so hard. The two securities carried Lila to the dressing room. When they got in, they placed the girl on the sofa gently and went out to call for paramedics. Denise worriedly wraps her in a blanket and touches her sweaty forehead. Lila is burning up with high fever! She must've caught it when she walked all the way to the stadium then continued to watch the concert, instead of taking a rest.
My head, Lila thought, I couldn't move
She forced an eye to open and it was all a blur, but she could feel that someone's carrying her to one place to another. She felt the cold and sticky atmosphere outside and she could hear a siren. Her eyes dropped. She felt too weak.
Hours later, the storm got stronger. Some people who has no cars got stranded in malls, schools, or anywhere. Everyone raced to get a cab just to get home and sit in front of the fireplace.
Beep. Beep. Beep.
It was quiet and cold which Lila noticed. Her eyes slowly opened and saw the white ceiling. It felt unusual and not home. She's right; she's not in the apartment or anywhere near. It kind of smells like anesthetics. She looked around and saw some things attached to her hand to a machine. No mistake, she's in a hospital. Lila sighed. It's like her birthday is cursed! At her thirteenth birthday, they were in the hospital because of her dying mom and now, she's back in the hospital. As if it's a tradition that she should be in the hospital at the start and end of her teenage years.
What's up with me? She thought.
She pulled herself up and tried to sit down when suddenly she felt a sharp pain on her head. She moaned a bit and leaned on the head board, not realizing that she woke someone up.
Lila got surprised to see Joe waking up just now. She didn't even realize that he was sleeping beside her bed the whole time. He was still in his concert clothes. They were silent for awhile and Joe couldn't stop smiling to see that she's okay.
"Are you feeling okay, already?" Joe asked concern.
Just looking through his eyes, Lila sees how worried sick he was. She just nodded and looked at the clock hanging on the wall. It is already one in the morning.
"A little" Lila answered softly. Her throat is too sore that she couldn't talk too much.
The both of them couldn't look at each other's eyes for a long time. It felt too awkward, especially for Lila. She feels too guilty about the every nasty thing she had said to Joe. It all stabbed through her heart.
"Are you hungry?" Joe finally asked.
He stood up from the chair and is about to go out, but then a warm hand grabbed him on the wrist. He turned back to see Lila stopping him with her weak hand. He turned back to his seat and holds Lila's hand.
"I'm not really hungry" she answered, "Where's everyone?"
Joe gently caresses Lila's smooth hand with his hands. He smiled. "They went home already two hours ago. After the concert, we came here as fast as we could. We were all so worried. But, the doctor said it was just a fever. You can go home by tomorrow"
"So, you stayed here until they all went home?"
"Well, yeah. I was too worried about you so I stayed. I might have slept every few hours" he explained and chuckled, but stopped suddenly. He looked at Lila worriedly, who's in tears.
"What's wrong?" he asked, holding her hand tight.
Lila sniffles and looked down her hands wincing. She felt much worse and looked away.
"Every touch from you hurts a lot" she explained.
As soon as she said that, Joe gently backed his hands off from hers. She clutched her chest and continued crying.
"I'm sorry, I'll call a nurse right away" Joe said.
"That's not what I meant!" Lila managed to shout that caught Joe's attention.
Lila is breathing hard again and made fists out of her hands. Her headache got worse and she felt frustrated and confused all at the same time. Joe looked at her intently, yet worried. She tried to look at him without any tears rolling down her cheeks, but she couldn't.
"I just couldn't understand everything that's happening!" Lila started. "I-I've said so many horrible things to you, I've always avoided you and yet you're still here by my side! It's like you're making me feel guilty!"
Joe shook his head and denied what Lila said. He sat at the side of the bed and olds Lila's cheeks. He never thought of revenging on Lila's imprudent attitude towards him. Not even for a second. Not even for a second. Joe tried to tilt Lila's head, but she wouldn't budge. She just kept on crying, feeling like the most stupid person in the entire world.
"Lila, listen to me" Joe demanded as gentle as possible, "I never wanted to make you feel guilty or something. I just really care about you, that's why. You might've wanted not to see me, but in my case it's different. I want to be with you. If you don't want to be with me as a lover, I'm still your best friend!"
Lila then hugged Joe tight and continued crying. Joe hugged her back and lets her cry until she's satisfied. He slowly cradled her back and forth while he pats Lila's back.
The storm turned into a drizzle, leaving the city wet. The atmosphere felt damp and sticky, but Lila couldn't feel it. All she feels is the warmth from Joe's hug. She stopped crying and her dreadful headache started to disappear because of Joe's cradling. She felt much better.
"Joe?" She called out softly.
"Hmm?" Joe answered, still cradling her.
"Do you feel the same towards me after all the mean things I've said to you?"
"If I didn't, I shouldn't have written to songs for you. Besides, you're a mess without me"
Lila smirked when she hears Joe's arrogance again. She missed that a lot and at some point, he was right. "You know, I never meant what I said to you"
"Which is?"
"That I- I don't love you"
Joe stopped cradling and looked down at her and Lila also looked at him. He looked through the young girl's soggy eyes brown eyes and moves aside strands of her that is are on her face. he touches Lila's left cheek gently and with passion. Lila, on the other hand, felt chills go up her spine. A strong feeling she had never felt before. Joe slowly tilts her head and Lila got nervous. She could see Joe's serious stare and his face coming towards her. She didn't do anything, but closed her eyes tight and waits for whatever is in store for her. Seconds later, she felt something warm pressed on her lips. It made her heart beat faster and her cheeks turned red. It felt good. Something she had never experienced before. It's a lot different from their last two kiss. She opened an eye and so Joe's face close to hers. His eyes are close and he's also blushing. This time, Lila didn't bother to stop Joe with what he's doing. She closed her eyes again and kissed him back, with her lips twitching into a smile. For her, it was something magical. She doesn't want it to end.
The next day, the morning is so beautiful and sunny. Selma and Milo went to the hospital to pick their daughter up. Lila is in the bathroom, changing her clothes. She wears a white long sleeved collared polo underneath a pink cotton vest then a pair of blue jeans and pink sneakers. She brushed her soft hazel brown hair and tied up her hair in a ponytail. And for the final touch, she brushed her bangs to the right side. She went out of the room and went in the elevator together with her parents. She's in between them and milo kissed her on the head.
"How's my precious little girl?" he asked with a smile.
Lila smiled back to her loving father, "I feel much better"
The elevator stopped at the first floor and they all went out. Milo and Selma is going to the cashier to pay and told Lila to wait at the lounge. Lila headed there and a guy came towards her. Someone very familiar.
"Joe" she said.
The guy is definitely Joe Jonas. He's wearing a black and white striped shirt with a collar, gray hoodie, a pair of black jeans and black sneakers. Everyone in the lounge is looking and talking about him.
"Are you feeling okay now, doggie?" he asked.
"Uh, yeah" Lila managed to say. She looked back at him with a squint. "You know what; I think I saw you in my dream"
"A dream?"
"Yeah, you were in my hospital room and then- you kissed me"
"Something like this?"
Joe holds Lila's cheeks with both hands and pressed his lips on hers. Lila is shock and so are all the people in the lounge who witnessed it. Joe lets go of her and grinned, "Was it something like that?"
"It wasn't a dream"
Joe chucked, "You got that right"
He hugged her tight and felt very happy. This moment will surely be shown on TV and he and Lila would be facing lots of questions. But, he doesn't need to worry about a thing when he's beside Lila.
The four of them left the hospital and the other two Jonas are outside and joins them. Nick is with violet and it looks like Marissa got hooked up with another Jonas. They went on their way to meet up with the other. It's like they're just about to start their London vacation. Everyone walked by pairs and Joe and Lila are the last. They weren't holding hands or some sort and Lila is still a little confused.
"So, are we like together now?" Lila asked softly without looking at him.
Joe looked down at her and shrugged, "I guess so" he said then remembered something.
The both of them stopped in the middle of the sidewalk and Lila watched him curiously. Joe reached for something long and velvet from his pocket. It was blue and a gold ribbon is tied around it. He gave it to Lila with a shy smile. Lila took it and smiled, "What's this?"
"It's a late birthday present"
Lila giggled and went back to her gift. She pulled the gold ribbon and slowly opened the box. She gasped. It was a necklace with a lavender round pendant made from diamond. The one she saw on the jewelry store together with Marissa. Joe took it from her and wears it on Lila. He looked at her with a warm smile, "It looks good on you"
All of a sudden, Lila pulled him by the jacket and kissed him passionately. Not even caring if they're in public. Nick, violet, Marissa, and Kevin started shouting with what they saw and is glad that they ended up together. Milo, on the other hand, was about to faint. But, he has to accept that his baby girl is growing up.
They went back to their walk. Joe is minding his self when someone holds his hand. He saw that it was Lila. He looked straight ahead with a smirk and holds her hands with fingers in between.
It's official. Lila, in her entire life, is in her first relation.