Chapter 1
Brian stretched out lazily on the bed. He yawned as he slowly blinked open his bright blue eyes. Beside him, Leighanne lay still sleeping peacefully.
He smiled as he turned over and watched her sleep. She looked so innocent and beautiful, he thought. Brian gently kissed her forehead, then slipped out of bed and to make some breakfast.
Leighanne had been out of the country for a month, shooting overseas in Europe for her new movie. She had just gotten home the night before and what a night it had been for both of them.
Brian's smile widened as he remembered Leighanne's homecoming. His body was still pleasantly aching in certain places.
Brian stretched again as he came out of the bathroom and glanced to see if she was still asleep. When he saw she was he crept down to the kitchen.
Brian pulled out all the ingredients for French toast. Just as he was mixing the eggs the phone rang.
Quickly wiping his hands he picked up the phone, cradling it between his shoulder and ear. "Hello?"
"Hey Bri, you're up early." Kevin's voice greeted him. "I thought you'd still be in bed with Leigh."
"What do ya want, Kev? I'm kinda busy." Brian stated.
"Well I warn you to sit down first." Kevin said.
"Why?" Brian questioned.
"Well this news is a bit of a shock." Kevin replied calmly.
"Something happen to Aunt Ann? What is it Kev?" Brian was worried now.
"No, no, nothing like that. You sitting yet?"
Brian looked around him, then hooked a nearby stool with his foot and sat down. "Okay Kevin spill!"
"Jive and the Firm just agreed on having P.U.R.E Harmony open for our next tour." Kevin stated bluntly.
Brian blinked in shock. Him and the guys would be stuck with the girls of P.U.R.E Harmony for only God knows how long. Good thing he was sitting down!
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"We're opening for BSB?" Lexi was ecstatic. "Oh my God! That's great!"
"Maybe," Cassie shrugged. "Maybe not.
"What do you mean maybe not?" Katie stared at her cousin shocked. "This is amazing! We'll be HUGE after this!"
"True.but." Cassie shook her head.
"Forget it Cassie!" Sarah snapped. "You won't ruin this by saying some bad luck bull shit. This is GOOD news and we're doing it!"
"Did I say it would be bad luck?" Cassie stated. "I just mea-"
"Stop right there!" Claudia held up her hand. "This will be fun Cass."
Cassie opened her mouth to say something but shut it quickly seeing the look of determination on the other's faces. Rolling her eyes she turned back to the mirror to finish her make-up. They needed to be at the studio by one to sign the papers.
Lexi watched her cousin carefully, knowing that Cassie must know something, but realized she didn't care. "I wonder what the guys think?"
"They're probably thrilled to have us opening for them." Claudia sighed dramatically.
"That or they're pissing in their pants because they know we'll steal the show!" Katie laughed.
"No way. They probably don't even know yet but that's cool because when they find out they'll want us more than they already do." Sarah said.
"You're forgetting that half of them are already taken." Cassie said.
"That sucks." Lexi sighed. "Brian's hot!"
"Lexi, don't get into trouble while we're on tour. Alright?" Cassie said.
Lexi rolled her eyes. "There ya go again. Raining on my parade. Fine, I promise not to get into trouble."
Cassie turned back to the mirror while Lexi winked at the others. "Just when I feel like it," she whispered
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"Tell me again why we're agreeing to this?" Brian questioned as he met up with the others.
"Because it will give us good publicity along with helping out a fellow label mate." Nick repeated what he had been told.
"So basically we're just using them for popularity?" AJ wondered. Kevin nodded.
"This all works out great." Nick spoke up. "Aaron wanted to meet them and I've decided to play this up as long as I can. Aaron would die for hook ups."
"You're so cruel." AJ chuckled. "Damn. I wish I had a little brother."
The guys laughed except for Brian, who was oddly quiet. He didn't know why, but the thought of having these girls around all the time didn't appeal to him. His instinct told him those girls weren't all they appeared to be.
"Well looks who's here." AJ's voice broke Brian's thoughts. They all glanced out the window to see the girls pull up in a silver BMW convertible. "They've got one thing going for them. They've got class. and a nice car."
"It's a rental. has to be. They're from Milwaukee, aren't they?" Nick argued.
AS AJ and Nick argued lightly about the car, Brian tuned them out. He watched as they each got out of the car. They all looked casual, but good in their clothing.
From where he stood Brian couldn't tell which was which, but one girl stood out. She was wearing a baby blue knitted tank top with white flares. Her long dirty blonde hair bounced along with her long legs as she followed the others. The thing that caught Brian's attention was the neon green fisherman's hat she had on.
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"We're glad you all could make it here today. Here are the contracts. Just sign on the dotted line and we're in business." The record executive said.
The guys all signed first and then watched the girls as they each did the same. Brian soon found out that it was 20-year-old Lexi "Pizzazz" Michaels who had caught his attention.
He had seen her pull off her hat and toss it at the blonde she referred to as Rebel. It went better with her outfit, but Brian guessed that was just how Lexi was; wild and crazy.
He watched her now with an interested gaze as she signed her contract then slid it to Claudia. She glanced up at Brian just then and caught him staring at her.
She smiled sweetly and winked at him. Brian didn't know why, but he felt a slight blush heat up his cheeks and he looked away.
"Now since that's over," the executive was saying, "I'll leave you kids alone to get to know each other. This tour will be the hottest EVER!"
The girls giggled as the small man left the room, leaving the two groups alone. They all sat quietly.
Brian noisily cleared his throat, and then took a sip of water. Sighing, he took a deep breath and smiled at the girls, making eye contact with Lexi again.
"So. you girls started out a cappella, huh?" He asked dumbly.
"Yea, just like you guys." Sarah replied.
"Did y'all write your own songs even then?" AJ wondered, leaning closer.
"Not all of us." Cassie laughed. "Just Claudia and Katie." "That's cool." Howie nodded, as if he was approving something.
Brian looked from the guys to the girls, and then back again. He could see they were warming up to the idea of having these girls around. He supposed they weren't all that bad, but there was still something nagging him.
"So, you girls seeing anybody right now?" AJ asked.
"Nope." Sarah smiled innocently. "We've been kinda busy lately. You know how it is."
"Yea, it's pretty rough." AJ grinned.
"We're coping though." Sarah giggled.
"Ya know, we've never heard y'all sing live before." Kevin interrupted. "Y'all mind?"
The girls looked at each other, then shrugged. "Any requests?" Claudia asked.
"Could you sing the one I like?" Nick asked with a smile.
" Can You Tell Me Why, right?" Katie smiled back.
Nick grinned. "You remembered. Can you sing it?"
"It's our song, Hun." Katie giggled. " Of course we can."
She led the way, standing and forming a semi circle in front of the table. Taking a moment they found their notes. They each took a breath then started.
"Can you tell me why (why). Love is hard. Can you tell me why (why). Love breaks your heart. Why. Does love bring so much pain. Why. Do I do it again and again. Can you tell me why (why) "
"Dang," Brian said breaking the silence that followed. "You really can sing."
The girls looked at each other oddly, then laughed. "You didn't think we could sing?" Lexi questioned.
"No, it's just not everyone sounds that good live." AJ explained. "Y'all sound amazing. That song was.."
"Amazing?" Sarah winked at him.
"And you wrote that?" Kevin asked looking at Katie. She nodded and smiled.
"Sing more." Brian said suddenly.
"Ladies, let's show these boys what we've got." Lexi laughed.
Brian laughed along. Lexi was really funny a little too crazy, but anyway he had a girlfriend. Or so he continued to tell himself.
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"I told you they'd be crazy about us." Sarah laughed as they slipped into their condo that night.
"We all knew that Sarah." Claudia said with a yawn. "You didn't have to tell us again!"
"Just so you know I was right." Sarah giggled.
"C'mon girl, eight a.m. practice. It's time for bed." Cassie ordered going to her room.
The girls had spent most of their day getting to know the boys more in depth. Little did the guys know they knew so much already.
"Hey Lex, why so quiet?" Katie asked when she saw her on the couch.
Lexi smiled up at her little sister. "Just thinking."
"hey, don't do too much of that or you'll hurt yourself. I know from experience." Katie teased.
Lexi laughed but threw her a warning glance. "Watch it Kat. I'm tired and I can get cranky."
"Gee, love you too." Katie laughed heading for her room she shared with Claudia. When Lexi was alone she moved over to the window seat over looking the ocean. She wondered what made her feel so unsettled. Thinking for a minute she knew it was because of Brian.
Life was going to be getting tough and hat's not what Lexi wanted. She wanted fun fun fun! Unfortunately it wouldn't be fun if Brian wasn't available to have "fun" with.
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"Bri, honey, are you awake?" Leighanne leaned over. "Damn," she sighed seeing his eyes closed.
She had missed him so much, and she was feeling a little, well, horny. A whole month with Brian had been pretty hard.
Leighanne sighed. She wondered what he was dreaming about because his smile kept on getting bigger. She watched carefully as he mumbled something.
Her hand stroked his cheek and found it's way into his hair. She played with his hair tickling his scalp, knowing how much he loved that.
"Mmm Lexi." Brian whispered.
Leighanne gasped. She was shocked. Sitting up she yanked his hair.
"OWWW!" Brian was awake in an instant. "What the hell are you doing?"
"Who's Lexi?" Leighanne threw back.
Brian blinked. "What are you talking about?"
Leighanne gave him a look. "You just said, 'mmm Lexi' and I wanna know who she is!"
Brian was shocked. "I did?"
"Yes! Brian Thomas Littrell, you best answer now before I yank something else painful and it sure as hell won't be your hair!" Leighanne snapped.
Brian inched away. "Leigh, baby, don't over react. I just met her today."
"So?"
Brian winced at the anger in her voice. "She's part of that new group, P.U.R.E Harmony."
"Oh really?" Leighanne was not amused. "Well?"
Brian took a deep breath and tried to explain. "See, her group is going on tour with us. She's really nice. You'd really like her."
"That doesn't explain why you were saying her name in your sleep." Leighanne said bluntly.
Brian searched for an explanation that wouldn't get him killed. How could a guy explain to his beloved girlfriend that he was dreaming about someone else? Brian was stumped.
After a while Leighanne let out a sigh. " Forget it Brian. If you don't wanna tell me then don't. Just know that I no longer trust you and until you prove that I can you can forget about sleeping with me."
Brian blinked in astonishment. "What? What are you saying?"
"I' telling you to get out of bed and go sleep somewhere else," she snapped.
"This is MY bed!" Brian exclaimed.
"So? I don't care, but as long as you're whispering another girls name you're not lying in the same bed as me."
Brian sighed deeply as he got out of bed and dragged along a pillow. As he settled onto the cold bed in the guestroom he knew he must've seriously been going crazy.
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A month passed and the tour began. The guys hadn't seen or talked about the girls since the day they met, but that hadn't stopped them from thinking bout them. They kinda liked the idea of being able to spend some time with these girls.
"Okay everything is here." Howie said, looking over the luggage. "Except for."
"The girls." AJ finished for him. He grinned. "Can't wait to see them."
"I can." Brian muttered rudely.
"What's wrong with you, B-rok?" Nick asked with a chuckle. "You're a little grumpy, aren't ya?"
Brian thought about how he spent the last month with Leighanne - or rather without - and his grumpiness increased. He scowled at Nick and turned away.
Nick wisely left his friend alone, recognizing the signs of a very irritable person. Nick shrugged and let it pass. Brian always got over it sooner or later.
"Hi guys, sorry we're late." Cassie said running up to the guys. "We sorta missed our wake up call, but don't worry we're all here and ready to go, right girls?"
The other girl slowly caught up and Cassie got a silent nod from Katie as she found the nearest chair. Nobody had any intention to tell the guys they were up until one working on a new dance routine.
Lexi stretched a little and peered at the guys from under the rim of her baseball cap. Her gaze landed on Brian and she noticed he looked tired.
Very aware of his earlier heart condition Lexi stepped closer and touched his arm. He jumped slightly and pulled away.
"Um, are you ok?" Lexi asked quietly. "You look tired."
He smiled weakly and shrugged. "I'll survive." He looked her over once more. "You on the other hand look like you could use a weeks worth of sleep."
She groaned. "Don't I know it."
"At least you can sleep on the plane." Brian pointed out.
"Not me. When I travel I can't sleep." Lexi said. "I normally stay up pretty late."
"All night?" Brian asked.
"If I have to." Lexi shrugged.
"Hey!" Kevin yelled. "You two plan on missing the flight or what? Let's go!"
Lexi quickly grabbed her bag and caught up with Claudia and Katie. Brian seemed to lag behind
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The first few weeks passed by quickly. The crowds loved P.U.R.E. Harmony almost as much as they loved the Backstreet Boys. Every night both groups went out and dazzled the crowd.
While the media reported rivalries they were only rumors. The two groups were becoming the best friends.sorta.
"Hey Lex, what'cha doin' out here by yourself?" Brian smiled coming closer.
Lexi looked up. She came out here to be alone because of him. For the past few weeks she began realizing he was perfect. Today she just wanted to get away.
"You know, you really shouldn't be out here alone. It's not safe." Brian said gently.
"Why?" Lexi sighed. "The worst a fan could do is ask for an autograph."
Brian saw her reluctance to talk to him and pushed away the feeling of hurt. If she needed time then he should give it to her, but he couldn't walk away from her.
"You neva know. Some guys are screwy and could run away with you." Brian teased.
Lexi wasn't laughing. "I'd scream bloody murder before anyone got too far."
Brian smiled. She was so brave, but he sensed fear in her at the moment. "So I guess nothing scares you, huh?"
Lexi was silent for a moment then looked him in the eye. "You scare me, Brian. I like you, Bri, I really do and I told myself I wouldn't do this. Because in the end it would hurt too much, but I have no choice."
Brian finally found his voice. "Do what Lexi? What would hurt you?"
"You Brian! You scare me because well, because I like you so much. I know that if I keep spending time with you I could easily fall for you and I already started, but I don't want that!" Lexi explained.
"You don't?"
"Well no," Lexi stood and started pacing. "You've got Leighanne and I wouldn't want that to end because I did something stupid like fall in love with you."
Brian's eyes widened in surprise and Lexi felt her heart drop into her stomach. It was too late she had already fallen in love with him. She sighed and looked away knowing she wouldn't be able to hold in the tears.
"Did you fall I love with me?" His soft question startled her.
Yes, she thought, yes I did, but I can't keep you. To him, she just said, "No," and almost choked on that simple word.
Brian searched her features and found something special in Lexi. Sure there was Leighanne, but that didn't stop Brian from pulling her into his arms.
Lexi froze as Brian's arms wrapped around her and she panicked for a minute. When she felt the warmth his body offered she hugged back.
His chin rested on top of her head as she nuzzled his neck. His arms went even tighter and she smiled; despite the growing confusion.
"Um.ahem!" Someone nearby cleared their throat. Brian and Lexi jumped apart as if they'd been burned. They turned to see Cassie.
"Hi," she smiled briefly. "Lex? We need you inside now. Did you get enough air?'
Lexi began to blush and couldn't look her cousin in the eye. She nodded and hurried back inside the venue. Brian watched her go suddenly feeling so empty.
His gaze went to Cassie who was staring at him. He got this feeling she knew what he was thinking.
"I knew this would happen," she muttered.
Brian frowned. "You knew what would happen?"
Cassie shook her head dismissively. "Forget it, but I do have a word of advice." She stepped closer and touched where his heart was. "Always follow this part of you because it knows the truth. The mind has a funny way of blocking it. It's better to follow your heart and get hurt than to miss out on love, hope, and destiny.
With that Cassie turned to leave. Brian knew what love, hope and destiny were all about. He just thought he already found them! He loved Leighanne, his music, and his career. His destiny was to be who he was, Brian Littrell, Backstreet Boy, and one of the luckiest guys in the world. So why did that sound so empty now?
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Brian thought about Cassie's words for the next few days letting them play over in his mind. He tried applying them to himself and he realized he was analyzing his life so far. He had come a long way from his life in Kentucky.
"Hey Brian," Nick's voice broke into his thoughts. "Wanna play a quick game of hoops? The court's right down the street."
Brian looked at him. "No thanks, Nick. I'm not in the mood."
Nick gasped. "Not in the mood for basketball? What happened? Did Leigh break up with you or something?"
Brian shot Nick an evil glare. "Don't even go there buddy, or you'll find yourself hanging from that hoop and I don't mean you'll be dunking and getting some air time."
Nick shut his mouth and nodded. Brian was in a bad mood again. Well, he supposed it had to happen once in a while. Nobody could be happy forever.
Nick just had to find someone else to play with. His thoughts went to the other guys, but he already knew they were busy with other things.
Lately Howie thought he had to write new songs and create new dance moves. Nick thought he was going insane. They had people to do that!
Kevin was always doing some business stuff so Nick knew asking him was out of the question. Besides, he'd been so caught up in something else lately.
AJ, well, he was just being himself and flirting with the girls. Nick sighed.
"Hey Nick," Katie's voice met his ears as he was leaving. "You goin' to shoot some hoops?"
Her looked her over. She was pretty for just turning eighteen a few months ago. Her long blonde hair was pulled back into a ponytail while she wore flared stretch pants and a tank top.
"Yea Kat, you game?" Nick asked her, holding out the ball.
"You bet." Katie grinned grabbing the ball. "Just don't cry when I whoop your ass."
Nick laughed. Good, she was confident. He'd have fun letting air out of that balloon.
Brian watched as Nick left with Katie to play basketball. How could people be having fun? Emotions he was afraid to name stirred inside of him and he sighed.
When he closed his eyes all he saw was Lexi's sweet smile and sparkling eyes. Then he could see Leighanne's angry face.
"Brian?"
He turned towards the soft voice and stared at the girl before him. It was Lexi, but not really. She had bright blue hair. Talk about making a statement.
"What did you do to your hair?" Brian asked almost screeching. His eyes were wide with shock.
"Katie dyed it for me." Lexi replied calmly.
"It's blue, Lex." Brian said dumbly.
"I know. Isn't it awesome!" She giggled.
"It's blue." He repeated.
Lexi sighed. "For the last time, Brian, I know. I bought the dye and Katie did it!"
Brian swallowed. She sure was full of pizzazz and a lot of bravery too. You'd never catch him with blue hair! Strangely he found himself smiling.
"Ya know, if you're trying to scare me away it's not working." Brian said softly, looking into her eyes.
She shifted uncomfortably. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Brian chuckled. "Blue hair won't make me stay away from you. I didn't start liking you because of your hair and I won't stop because of it."
"Who says that's what I'm doing? I've always wanted to do it. Katie thinks green should be next." Lexi retorted, ignoring his comment.
"Green, huh?" Brian smiled. "Bone did that once. Didn't last long."
"Well I'm not AJ," she said.
"No, you're not." Brian stopped smiling and looked serious. "You're Lexi, otherwise known as Pizzazz and." He trailed off because he knew what he wanted to say scared him to death.
She looked at him oddly. "And what?"
Brian stared into her pretty face wishing he could say everything he was feeling. If it was so wrong, why did it feel so right? His heart and his mind battled it out, while he leaned closer and kissed her softly on the lips
He felt the initial resistance in her. He knew it was wrong, but that didn't stop him. Lexi had finally given in and kissed him back. The kiss deepened as Brian pulled her closer.
Somewhere in the back of his mid he remembered he had a girlfriend, but there was no stopping this. this kiss. It felt good to be holding Lexi, even though he knew it was wrong.
Coming backstage from lunch, Claudia saw Brian and Lexi sharing a passionate kiss. She had seen this coming a mile away! She also knew this was just the beginning.
Brian stretched out lazily on the bed. He yawned as he slowly blinked open his bright blue eyes. Beside him, Leighanne lay still sleeping peacefully.
He smiled as he turned over and watched her sleep. She looked so innocent and beautiful, he thought. Brian gently kissed her forehead, then slipped out of bed and to make some breakfast.
Leighanne had been out of the country for a month, shooting overseas in Europe for her new movie. She had just gotten home the night before and what a night it had been for both of them.
Brian's smile widened as he remembered Leighanne's homecoming. His body was still pleasantly aching in certain places.
Brian stretched again as he came out of the bathroom and glanced to see if she was still asleep. When he saw she was he crept down to the kitchen.
Brian pulled out all the ingredients for French toast. Just as he was mixing the eggs the phone rang.
Quickly wiping his hands he picked up the phone, cradling it between his shoulder and ear. "Hello?"
"Hey Bri, you're up early." Kevin's voice greeted him. "I thought you'd still be in bed with Leigh."
"What do ya want, Kev? I'm kinda busy." Brian stated.
"Well I warn you to sit down first." Kevin said.
"Why?" Brian questioned.
"Well this news is a bit of a shock." Kevin replied calmly.
"Something happen to Aunt Ann? What is it Kev?" Brian was worried now.
"No, no, nothing like that. You sitting yet?"
Brian looked around him, then hooked a nearby stool with his foot and sat down. "Okay Kevin spill!"
"Jive and the Firm just agreed on having P.U.R.E Harmony open for our next tour." Kevin stated bluntly.
Brian blinked in shock. Him and the guys would be stuck with the girls of P.U.R.E Harmony for only God knows how long. Good thing he was sitting down!
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"We're opening for BSB?" Lexi was ecstatic. "Oh my God! That's great!"
"Maybe," Cassie shrugged. "Maybe not.
"What do you mean maybe not?" Katie stared at her cousin shocked. "This is amazing! We'll be HUGE after this!"
"True.but." Cassie shook her head.
"Forget it Cassie!" Sarah snapped. "You won't ruin this by saying some bad luck bull shit. This is GOOD news and we're doing it!"
"Did I say it would be bad luck?" Cassie stated. "I just mea-"
"Stop right there!" Claudia held up her hand. "This will be fun Cass."
Cassie opened her mouth to say something but shut it quickly seeing the look of determination on the other's faces. Rolling her eyes she turned back to the mirror to finish her make-up. They needed to be at the studio by one to sign the papers.
Lexi watched her cousin carefully, knowing that Cassie must know something, but realized she didn't care. "I wonder what the guys think?"
"They're probably thrilled to have us opening for them." Claudia sighed dramatically.
"That or they're pissing in their pants because they know we'll steal the show!" Katie laughed.
"No way. They probably don't even know yet but that's cool because when they find out they'll want us more than they already do." Sarah said.
"You're forgetting that half of them are already taken." Cassie said.
"That sucks." Lexi sighed. "Brian's hot!"
"Lexi, don't get into trouble while we're on tour. Alright?" Cassie said.
Lexi rolled her eyes. "There ya go again. Raining on my parade. Fine, I promise not to get into trouble."
Cassie turned back to the mirror while Lexi winked at the others. "Just when I feel like it," she whispered
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"Tell me again why we're agreeing to this?" Brian questioned as he met up with the others.
"Because it will give us good publicity along with helping out a fellow label mate." Nick repeated what he had been told.
"So basically we're just using them for popularity?" AJ wondered. Kevin nodded.
"This all works out great." Nick spoke up. "Aaron wanted to meet them and I've decided to play this up as long as I can. Aaron would die for hook ups."
"You're so cruel." AJ chuckled. "Damn. I wish I had a little brother."
The guys laughed except for Brian, who was oddly quiet. He didn't know why, but the thought of having these girls around all the time didn't appeal to him. His instinct told him those girls weren't all they appeared to be.
"Well looks who's here." AJ's voice broke Brian's thoughts. They all glanced out the window to see the girls pull up in a silver BMW convertible. "They've got one thing going for them. They've got class. and a nice car."
"It's a rental. has to be. They're from Milwaukee, aren't they?" Nick argued.
AS AJ and Nick argued lightly about the car, Brian tuned them out. He watched as they each got out of the car. They all looked casual, but good in their clothing.
From where he stood Brian couldn't tell which was which, but one girl stood out. She was wearing a baby blue knitted tank top with white flares. Her long dirty blonde hair bounced along with her long legs as she followed the others. The thing that caught Brian's attention was the neon green fisherman's hat she had on.
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"We're glad you all could make it here today. Here are the contracts. Just sign on the dotted line and we're in business." The record executive said.
The guys all signed first and then watched the girls as they each did the same. Brian soon found out that it was 20-year-old Lexi "Pizzazz" Michaels who had caught his attention.
He had seen her pull off her hat and toss it at the blonde she referred to as Rebel. It went better with her outfit, but Brian guessed that was just how Lexi was; wild and crazy.
He watched her now with an interested gaze as she signed her contract then slid it to Claudia. She glanced up at Brian just then and caught him staring at her.
She smiled sweetly and winked at him. Brian didn't know why, but he felt a slight blush heat up his cheeks and he looked away.
"Now since that's over," the executive was saying, "I'll leave you kids alone to get to know each other. This tour will be the hottest EVER!"
The girls giggled as the small man left the room, leaving the two groups alone. They all sat quietly.
Brian noisily cleared his throat, and then took a sip of water. Sighing, he took a deep breath and smiled at the girls, making eye contact with Lexi again.
"So. you girls started out a cappella, huh?" He asked dumbly.
"Yea, just like you guys." Sarah replied.
"Did y'all write your own songs even then?" AJ wondered, leaning closer.
"Not all of us." Cassie laughed. "Just Claudia and Katie." "That's cool." Howie nodded, as if he was approving something.
Brian looked from the guys to the girls, and then back again. He could see they were warming up to the idea of having these girls around. He supposed they weren't all that bad, but there was still something nagging him.
"So, you girls seeing anybody right now?" AJ asked.
"Nope." Sarah smiled innocently. "We've been kinda busy lately. You know how it is."
"Yea, it's pretty rough." AJ grinned.
"We're coping though." Sarah giggled.
"Ya know, we've never heard y'all sing live before." Kevin interrupted. "Y'all mind?"
The girls looked at each other, then shrugged. "Any requests?" Claudia asked.
"Could you sing the one I like?" Nick asked with a smile.
" Can You Tell Me Why, right?" Katie smiled back.
Nick grinned. "You remembered. Can you sing it?"
"It's our song, Hun." Katie giggled. " Of course we can."
She led the way, standing and forming a semi circle in front of the table. Taking a moment they found their notes. They each took a breath then started.
"Can you tell me why (why). Love is hard. Can you tell me why (why). Love breaks your heart. Why. Does love bring so much pain. Why. Do I do it again and again. Can you tell me why (why) "
"Dang," Brian said breaking the silence that followed. "You really can sing."
The girls looked at each other oddly, then laughed. "You didn't think we could sing?" Lexi questioned.
"No, it's just not everyone sounds that good live." AJ explained. "Y'all sound amazing. That song was.."
"Amazing?" Sarah winked at him.
"And you wrote that?" Kevin asked looking at Katie. She nodded and smiled.
"Sing more." Brian said suddenly.
"Ladies, let's show these boys what we've got." Lexi laughed.
Brian laughed along. Lexi was really funny a little too crazy, but anyway he had a girlfriend. Or so he continued to tell himself.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"I told you they'd be crazy about us." Sarah laughed as they slipped into their condo that night.
"We all knew that Sarah." Claudia said with a yawn. "You didn't have to tell us again!"
"Just so you know I was right." Sarah giggled.
"C'mon girl, eight a.m. practice. It's time for bed." Cassie ordered going to her room.
The girls had spent most of their day getting to know the boys more in depth. Little did the guys know they knew so much already.
"Hey Lex, why so quiet?" Katie asked when she saw her on the couch.
Lexi smiled up at her little sister. "Just thinking."
"hey, don't do too much of that or you'll hurt yourself. I know from experience." Katie teased.
Lexi laughed but threw her a warning glance. "Watch it Kat. I'm tired and I can get cranky."
"Gee, love you too." Katie laughed heading for her room she shared with Claudia. When Lexi was alone she moved over to the window seat over looking the ocean. She wondered what made her feel so unsettled. Thinking for a minute she knew it was because of Brian.
Life was going to be getting tough and hat's not what Lexi wanted. She wanted fun fun fun! Unfortunately it wouldn't be fun if Brian wasn't available to have "fun" with.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"Bri, honey, are you awake?" Leighanne leaned over. "Damn," she sighed seeing his eyes closed.
She had missed him so much, and she was feeling a little, well, horny. A whole month with Brian had been pretty hard.
Leighanne sighed. She wondered what he was dreaming about because his smile kept on getting bigger. She watched carefully as he mumbled something.
Her hand stroked his cheek and found it's way into his hair. She played with his hair tickling his scalp, knowing how much he loved that.
"Mmm Lexi." Brian whispered.
Leighanne gasped. She was shocked. Sitting up she yanked his hair.
"OWWW!" Brian was awake in an instant. "What the hell are you doing?"
"Who's Lexi?" Leighanne threw back.
Brian blinked. "What are you talking about?"
Leighanne gave him a look. "You just said, 'mmm Lexi' and I wanna know who she is!"
Brian was shocked. "I did?"
"Yes! Brian Thomas Littrell, you best answer now before I yank something else painful and it sure as hell won't be your hair!" Leighanne snapped.
Brian inched away. "Leigh, baby, don't over react. I just met her today."
"So?"
Brian winced at the anger in her voice. "She's part of that new group, P.U.R.E Harmony."
"Oh really?" Leighanne was not amused. "Well?"
Brian took a deep breath and tried to explain. "See, her group is going on tour with us. She's really nice. You'd really like her."
"That doesn't explain why you were saying her name in your sleep." Leighanne said bluntly.
Brian searched for an explanation that wouldn't get him killed. How could a guy explain to his beloved girlfriend that he was dreaming about someone else? Brian was stumped.
After a while Leighanne let out a sigh. " Forget it Brian. If you don't wanna tell me then don't. Just know that I no longer trust you and until you prove that I can you can forget about sleeping with me."
Brian blinked in astonishment. "What? What are you saying?"
"I' telling you to get out of bed and go sleep somewhere else," she snapped.
"This is MY bed!" Brian exclaimed.
"So? I don't care, but as long as you're whispering another girls name you're not lying in the same bed as me."
Brian sighed deeply as he got out of bed and dragged along a pillow. As he settled onto the cold bed in the guestroom he knew he must've seriously been going crazy.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A month passed and the tour began. The guys hadn't seen or talked about the girls since the day they met, but that hadn't stopped them from thinking bout them. They kinda liked the idea of being able to spend some time with these girls.
"Okay everything is here." Howie said, looking over the luggage. "Except for."
"The girls." AJ finished for him. He grinned. "Can't wait to see them."
"I can." Brian muttered rudely.
"What's wrong with you, B-rok?" Nick asked with a chuckle. "You're a little grumpy, aren't ya?"
Brian thought about how he spent the last month with Leighanne - or rather without - and his grumpiness increased. He scowled at Nick and turned away.
Nick wisely left his friend alone, recognizing the signs of a very irritable person. Nick shrugged and let it pass. Brian always got over it sooner or later.
"Hi guys, sorry we're late." Cassie said running up to the guys. "We sorta missed our wake up call, but don't worry we're all here and ready to go, right girls?"
The other girl slowly caught up and Cassie got a silent nod from Katie as she found the nearest chair. Nobody had any intention to tell the guys they were up until one working on a new dance routine.
Lexi stretched a little and peered at the guys from under the rim of her baseball cap. Her gaze landed on Brian and she noticed he looked tired.
Very aware of his earlier heart condition Lexi stepped closer and touched his arm. He jumped slightly and pulled away.
"Um, are you ok?" Lexi asked quietly. "You look tired."
He smiled weakly and shrugged. "I'll survive." He looked her over once more. "You on the other hand look like you could use a weeks worth of sleep."
She groaned. "Don't I know it."
"At least you can sleep on the plane." Brian pointed out.
"Not me. When I travel I can't sleep." Lexi said. "I normally stay up pretty late."
"All night?" Brian asked.
"If I have to." Lexi shrugged.
"Hey!" Kevin yelled. "You two plan on missing the flight or what? Let's go!"
Lexi quickly grabbed her bag and caught up with Claudia and Katie. Brian seemed to lag behind
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The first few weeks passed by quickly. The crowds loved P.U.R.E. Harmony almost as much as they loved the Backstreet Boys. Every night both groups went out and dazzled the crowd.
While the media reported rivalries they were only rumors. The two groups were becoming the best friends.sorta.
"Hey Lex, what'cha doin' out here by yourself?" Brian smiled coming closer.
Lexi looked up. She came out here to be alone because of him. For the past few weeks she began realizing he was perfect. Today she just wanted to get away.
"You know, you really shouldn't be out here alone. It's not safe." Brian said gently.
"Why?" Lexi sighed. "The worst a fan could do is ask for an autograph."
Brian saw her reluctance to talk to him and pushed away the feeling of hurt. If she needed time then he should give it to her, but he couldn't walk away from her.
"You neva know. Some guys are screwy and could run away with you." Brian teased.
Lexi wasn't laughing. "I'd scream bloody murder before anyone got too far."
Brian smiled. She was so brave, but he sensed fear in her at the moment. "So I guess nothing scares you, huh?"
Lexi was silent for a moment then looked him in the eye. "You scare me, Brian. I like you, Bri, I really do and I told myself I wouldn't do this. Because in the end it would hurt too much, but I have no choice."
Brian finally found his voice. "Do what Lexi? What would hurt you?"
"You Brian! You scare me because well, because I like you so much. I know that if I keep spending time with you I could easily fall for you and I already started, but I don't want that!" Lexi explained.
"You don't?"
"Well no," Lexi stood and started pacing. "You've got Leighanne and I wouldn't want that to end because I did something stupid like fall in love with you."
Brian's eyes widened in surprise and Lexi felt her heart drop into her stomach. It was too late she had already fallen in love with him. She sighed and looked away knowing she wouldn't be able to hold in the tears.
"Did you fall I love with me?" His soft question startled her.
Yes, she thought, yes I did, but I can't keep you. To him, she just said, "No," and almost choked on that simple word.
Brian searched her features and found something special in Lexi. Sure there was Leighanne, but that didn't stop Brian from pulling her into his arms.
Lexi froze as Brian's arms wrapped around her and she panicked for a minute. When she felt the warmth his body offered she hugged back.
His chin rested on top of her head as she nuzzled his neck. His arms went even tighter and she smiled; despite the growing confusion.
"Um.ahem!" Someone nearby cleared their throat. Brian and Lexi jumped apart as if they'd been burned. They turned to see Cassie.
"Hi," she smiled briefly. "Lex? We need you inside now. Did you get enough air?'
Lexi began to blush and couldn't look her cousin in the eye. She nodded and hurried back inside the venue. Brian watched her go suddenly feeling so empty.
His gaze went to Cassie who was staring at him. He got this feeling she knew what he was thinking.
"I knew this would happen," she muttered.
Brian frowned. "You knew what would happen?"
Cassie shook her head dismissively. "Forget it, but I do have a word of advice." She stepped closer and touched where his heart was. "Always follow this part of you because it knows the truth. The mind has a funny way of blocking it. It's better to follow your heart and get hurt than to miss out on love, hope, and destiny.
With that Cassie turned to leave. Brian knew what love, hope and destiny were all about. He just thought he already found them! He loved Leighanne, his music, and his career. His destiny was to be who he was, Brian Littrell, Backstreet Boy, and one of the luckiest guys in the world. So why did that sound so empty now?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Brian thought about Cassie's words for the next few days letting them play over in his mind. He tried applying them to himself and he realized he was analyzing his life so far. He had come a long way from his life in Kentucky.
"Hey Brian," Nick's voice broke into his thoughts. "Wanna play a quick game of hoops? The court's right down the street."
Brian looked at him. "No thanks, Nick. I'm not in the mood."
Nick gasped. "Not in the mood for basketball? What happened? Did Leigh break up with you or something?"
Brian shot Nick an evil glare. "Don't even go there buddy, or you'll find yourself hanging from that hoop and I don't mean you'll be dunking and getting some air time."
Nick shut his mouth and nodded. Brian was in a bad mood again. Well, he supposed it had to happen once in a while. Nobody could be happy forever.
Nick just had to find someone else to play with. His thoughts went to the other guys, but he already knew they were busy with other things.
Lately Howie thought he had to write new songs and create new dance moves. Nick thought he was going insane. They had people to do that!
Kevin was always doing some business stuff so Nick knew asking him was out of the question. Besides, he'd been so caught up in something else lately.
AJ, well, he was just being himself and flirting with the girls. Nick sighed.
"Hey Nick," Katie's voice met his ears as he was leaving. "You goin' to shoot some hoops?"
Her looked her over. She was pretty for just turning eighteen a few months ago. Her long blonde hair was pulled back into a ponytail while she wore flared stretch pants and a tank top.
"Yea Kat, you game?" Nick asked her, holding out the ball.
"You bet." Katie grinned grabbing the ball. "Just don't cry when I whoop your ass."
Nick laughed. Good, she was confident. He'd have fun letting air out of that balloon.
Brian watched as Nick left with Katie to play basketball. How could people be having fun? Emotions he was afraid to name stirred inside of him and he sighed.
When he closed his eyes all he saw was Lexi's sweet smile and sparkling eyes. Then he could see Leighanne's angry face.
"Brian?"
He turned towards the soft voice and stared at the girl before him. It was Lexi, but not really. She had bright blue hair. Talk about making a statement.
"What did you do to your hair?" Brian asked almost screeching. His eyes were wide with shock.
"Katie dyed it for me." Lexi replied calmly.
"It's blue, Lex." Brian said dumbly.
"I know. Isn't it awesome!" She giggled.
"It's blue." He repeated.
Lexi sighed. "For the last time, Brian, I know. I bought the dye and Katie did it!"
Brian swallowed. She sure was full of pizzazz and a lot of bravery too. You'd never catch him with blue hair! Strangely he found himself smiling.
"Ya know, if you're trying to scare me away it's not working." Brian said softly, looking into her eyes.
She shifted uncomfortably. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Brian chuckled. "Blue hair won't make me stay away from you. I didn't start liking you because of your hair and I won't stop because of it."
"Who says that's what I'm doing? I've always wanted to do it. Katie thinks green should be next." Lexi retorted, ignoring his comment.
"Green, huh?" Brian smiled. "Bone did that once. Didn't last long."
"Well I'm not AJ," she said.
"No, you're not." Brian stopped smiling and looked serious. "You're Lexi, otherwise known as Pizzazz and." He trailed off because he knew what he wanted to say scared him to death.
She looked at him oddly. "And what?"
Brian stared into her pretty face wishing he could say everything he was feeling. If it was so wrong, why did it feel so right? His heart and his mind battled it out, while he leaned closer and kissed her softly on the lips
He felt the initial resistance in her. He knew it was wrong, but that didn't stop him. Lexi had finally given in and kissed him back. The kiss deepened as Brian pulled her closer.
Somewhere in the back of his mid he remembered he had a girlfriend, but there was no stopping this. this kiss. It felt good to be holding Lexi, even though he knew it was wrong.
Coming backstage from lunch, Claudia saw Brian and Lexi sharing a passionate kiss. She had seen this coming a mile away! She also knew this was just the beginning.