Chapter 3
The guys sat in stunned silence as Kevin told them the news. Kevin was a father - had been for almost five years- and Cassie was the mother. That explained why the girls were taken off the tour. The guys couldn't help but feel bad.
"So.they're not coming back?" Nick asked worriedly.
"Oh they'll be back." Kevin stated confidently. "I'll make sure of that."
Nick saw the determination in Kevin's eyes, and hoped he was right. The girls deserved everything good in their lives. Nick was sure of that, even though Katie did get to him once and a while.
He thought about how sad he felt when the girls were packing. However, having a baby wasn't exactly a sin and it wasn't fair they had to go through this.
"Hey Fellas." Fatima came into the backstage area seeing the guys. "What's wrong?"
"You mean you haven't heard?" Brian questioned.
"Obviously not, B-rok. Would I be askin' if I knew?"
"Well, let me explain. It is my fault, ya know." Kevin said.
"Somebody explain. and hurry." Fatima said interested.
They all listened as Kevin explained everything again. Fatima looked shocked, but then understanding. The guys missed the girls; well at least Nick knew he did.
Nick enjoyed having the girls around. Lexi was always willing to play a videogame with him. Sarah always had some kinda of joke. Cassie was always sweet. Claudia, she was nice and everyday she split a Twix with him at break. Then Katie, Nick thought glumly, was fun too - when she wasn't kicking his ass at something.
"Well.I feel terrible baby." Fatima said sympathetically, hugging Kevin before looking at the others. "You guys must be pretty shaken up too, huh?" They all nodded. "Especially AJ, you must be missing Sarah."
"What makes you say that?" AJ wondered.
Fatima grinned. "Oh. I see the way you be lookin' at her sometimes. Fatima knows, honey."
AJ remained silent, but Nick saw the blush in his cheeks. He knew how crazy Sarah was about AJ because she told him a few days ago. He could easily see the two dating, but AJ wasn't the type of guy to stick around forever.
"And Nicky will be missing Katie," she smiled.
Nick blinked. "I will?"
Fatima laughed. "Of course you will baby boy. As much as she annoys you, you like her."
Nick grinned. "Maybe. I mean, it's funny when she gets angry. She looks. cute."
The guys laughed and Nick joined in, but he realized he was telling the truth. Katie was adorable when she got angry. Her eyes would light up, and she'd argue until she got her way. Maybe that's why Nick liked annoying her.
"It's just a shame y'all lost them so soon." Fatima shook her head sadly.
"Don't worry, Fatima. We'll get them back." Nick said solemnly. "Right Kev?"
He nodded. "Yea, little brother, we will."
Fatima smiled brightly. She knew how much those girls had come to mean to the guys even if they didn't admit it. She grew to love those girls too. Yes, they would be back on tour.and back in their lives.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Katie sighed deeply as she heard her cell phone ring. She hadn't left her apartment or answered the phone in days, but she suddenly had an urge to pick it up. Rolling over she snatched it off the floor. "Hello," she mumbled.
"Hey Kat, it's me, Nick."
Katie was shocked. "Nick? Nick Carter?"
He laughed. "Well, yeah. How many Nick's do you know?"
She couldn't stop the smile spreading across her face. "Enough to ask."
"Oh, cool," Nick replied. "Um look Kat, I just. I just called to say that I'm sorry you got taken off the tour."
Katie stiffened at his apology. She didn't like being reminded of what happened and she didn't need him rubbing it in her face. "I don' think that it was fair for Jive to do that even though you girls are well." Nick trailed off not knowing how to describe the situation.
"We're a scandal." Katie finished smoothly, ready to hang up.
"I wouldn't say a scandal really, it's like." Nick searched for the word, then cursed himself for not being able to find the right one.
"Face it, Nick, that's what we are." Katie replied briskly. Why did it hurt so much to admit it. Maybe because deep inside she didn't want Nick to think they were bad. She let out a noisy breath. "Look Nick, I really don't feel like talking now, and I don't like the fact we're screw ups being rubbed in my face by you. So if it's all the same to you, I'd like to say goodbye."
"Now hold on girlie, I wasn't rubbing anything in your face!" Nick argued. "I called because." Nick hesitated. Why had he called? He certainly had no good reason.. He just needed to know she was okay.
"Because why?" Katie prodded, curiosity not a big help.
"Because I." Nick didn't know how to explain his sudden urge to see her. talk to her. hell even fighting with her would be fun! He sighed. "I just wanted to say I'm sorry."
"Nick, I have to go." Katie said, lying through her teeth.
"Well, okay, but." Nick hesitated again, not sure what to say. "Just know that we're doing everything it takes to get you girls back."
"Why in the world would you do that?" Katie asked puzzled
"Because that's where you belong." Nick said simply.
Katie didn't know why, but Nick's words sounded right. P.U.R.E Harmony did belong there on tour. with the guys. She hadn't realized she was crying until she felt a tear fall onto her hand. She stared at it, amazed that Nick had moved her so much. He always seemed to make her mad.
She sighed. "I really have to go now, Nick."
"Okay. Bye Kat." Nick said softly. He heard her say goodbye, then hang up. With the phone still to his ear, he whispered, "I miss you." Then carefully, he placed the phone back on the hook and went to bed.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"I've figured out a way to get them back!" Nick announced. "It's perfect."
"What's the plan?" AJ wondered.
Nick sat down facing the guys and smiled. "Well I was watching TV this morning and I was thinking there has to be a way to straighten everything out, right?"
"That's what this whole meeting is for." Howie chuckled.
"Right. So I was thinking we should hold a press conference." Nick smirked.
"A press conference?" Kevin asked in amazement. "For what?"
Nick beamed. "To help out the girls. We would all be there. The whole world would tune in, and we could say straight out the girls are great! So what if Cassie has a kid? Who doesn't have a kid these days? And from what I know she's gotta be a great mom, right."
"True." Kevin looked thoughtful. "Yea Nick, she is a great mom."
"Well, there ya go!" Nick laughed. "Have a press conference, set everybody straight, and BAM! They're back on tour."
"You really think that'll work?" Howie asked uncertainly.
"Of course it will." Nick said.
"Nick, buddy, calm down. We'll figure something out." AJ said.
Just because he was the youngest member of the group, the guys barely ever took him seriously, except Brian, who gave him an encouraging smile. Nick didn't return the smile though, because he knew they'd end up doing the press conference.
After sitting around for nearly an hour, Kevin finally gave up. He said Nick was right.
"See? I told you," he muttered.
"All right, so ya did." Kevin shrugged. "Now, all we have to do is convince the girls."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"There is no way in hell I'm doing a press conference." Katie stated firmly, crossing her arms over her chest. The other girls remained silent.
"What? Are you crazy?" Nick exclaimed. "Kat, this is your chance to prove you girls are worth something!"
"By parading around like an idiot claiming I'm 'Miss Perfect'!" Katie retorted. "No way! I have nothing to prove to anybody!"
He looked to the girls for some help and they shrugged. This was not going as he planned. "Ok, Kat, listen," he said slowly. "I know you may not want to do this, but."
"But nothing, Carter. I'm not doing it and that's final." Katie snapped.
Nick was getting a big headache. "Katie, you're not listening! If you'd."
"No!" She shouted. "I have nothing to prove to these people! If they can't see that I'm just a normal person then screw them!"
Nick had enough. "Dammit Katie, we're trying to help you and you're being a stubborn little brat! When are you going to grow up and face the truth? You have to do something and this is your only hope!"
"Who the hell do you think you are calling me a brat?!" Katie practically screamed. "You've got some nerve telling me to grow up when you spend your spare time playing video games and watching cartoons!"
"At least I know how to have fun!" Nick shot back. "I don't spend hours trying to look good for people who don't give two shits what I look like anyway! Who are you trying to impress with all that make-up during rehearsals anyway, Katie? The forty-something crew members!"
Everyone in the tiny room gasped. This argument was getting out of hand, but the others were too chicken to stop them. Nobody wanted to get in the middle of this war.
"Well you can be sure I'm not trying to impress you!" Katie stated bluntly. "Because I wouldn't want a loser like you hitting on me!"
"Who says I would even try?" Nick yelled. "I don't go for short, scrawny, brats that don't know when to shut the hell up!"
"Well I don't go for 21-year-olds who act their damn shoe size and can't even keep up a good conversation!" She shot back.
"What makes you think anything you say is good?" Nick shouted angrily.
"At least I have things to say." Katie said finally.
"That's enough!" Kevin said over all the yelling. "You two have no more say in this matter, you hear me?"
"But Kevin." Nick looked as if to say it wasn't his fault.
"No more." Kevin repeated. "You got me?" Nick nodded. "That goes for you too Katie." She looked away and he took that as a good enough agreement. "Now, we came here to talk about this press conference. Whether or not ALL you girls are there, we are doing this. So what's it going to be?"
The girls who had been silent earlier, ignored Katie's glare when they said they'd be there. The press conference would be exactly what they needed.
"All right it's settled." Kevin said with a nod. "So we're going to have this." He proceeded to tell the girls the rest of the important details.
"So, it's all set." Lexi murmured. "We're really going to do this."
"Yup." Brian nodded. "You going to be okay?"
Lexi smiled. "I'll be fine." She turned away quickly before she was tempted to tell Brian what she was feeling.
"It'll be good to have you girls back." AJ commented, looking at Sarah.
"Ya miss us that much, huh?" Sarah had to smile.
"Well yeah," AJ shrugged. "Who else would I have to go shopping with?"
"Guess that's all I'm good for, huh?" Sarah teased.
"No," AJ shook his head. "More than that."
"Well I'll be glad to be back." Claudia spoke up. "It's boring at home."
"You work too hard." Howie said to her.
"That's what it's all about though, isn't it?" Claudia smiled. "The fight to be number one."
Howie shrugged. "Maybe. maybe not."
"I can't believe I'm doing this." Katie muttered.
"Believe it, Katie." Nick said. "You best believe it."
Katie glared at him. She knew this was all his idea. Why was it so important for the girls to be back on tour? Ad why did Katie want to be back there anyway?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*
Nick sat tensely behind the table as the questions were fired at both groups. He had sat in on so many press conferences, but this one had him on edge. He wanted so badly for this to work. It just had to.
"Unique, now that the world knows about your son, how will this affect your life?"
Cassie smiled nervously. "I doubt it will be any different. I'll still have Josh and I'll still make my music. That's not much of a change if you ask me."
"But what about the father? It showed no father on the birth certificate. He obviously must be aware of him now."
Katie sat back, feeling like ripping her hair out. This is exactly what she didn't want to happen.
Cassie was deathly still now, not knowing how to respond. She hadn't told anyone who the father was, and just recently told the girls it was Kevin! Katie was sure her cousin was going to have a nervous break down any second now.
Nick saw the pain in Cassie's eyes, and felt sorry because he was the one who put it there. His gaze fell to Katie who was glaring evilly at him. Whether this press conference worked or not, he had the feeling she'd never be happy with him again.
"The father of my son," Cassie started slowly, "Is aware of him, and maybe I shouldn't have kept it from him. But I know I can't keep them from being together. It's only fair to share custody."
Nick never thought that would come out here. His gaze flew to Kevin who was smiling broadly. So Kevin would be able to be a father to his son; he looked ecstatic.
"What about the other girls? How do you feel about all this?"
"We've always known about JJ." Lexi replied shyly. "We never kept it a secret from the people it mattered to. In our eyes, Cassie is still a great person. She always will be."
"Lexi's right." Brian spoke up. "All of these girls are wonderful, loving people. Protecting that little guy proves that. They didn't want this to happen. What business is it anybody's to go poking into his life just because of who his mother is?"
"Or who his father is?" Kevin added.
"Who is the father?"
Everyone seemed to hold their breath, waiting for the reply. Te tension in the room was so thick it was almost unbearable. The whole room was alive with anticipation and it was driving Katie insane.
"Does it really matter who the hell his father is?" She broke the silence. "Who cares? That little boy is been put on display for you people! That was something Cassie never wanted! How can you people put a child through such vicious scandals and rumors? No child deserves this. Not one!"
Katie was right, as rude as she was being, she was right. Nick watched her with admiration in every one of his features. Katie knew how to dish it out, but he realized what a good trait that could be.
The questions soon reverted to the general promotion of the groups.
"I think I speak for all of us when I say that all though these girls can be stubborn, challenging, and really hard to put up with sometimes. It's all these traits that'll help them fight back and succeed." Nick said.
"P.U.R.E Harmony will be reinstated to the tour as of next week." A manger stated.
The few fans that squeezed into the room cheered wildly. The girls started smiling uncontrollably.
Katie frowned. Okay, so Nick's idea worked, but what was that about them being stubborn, challenging, and hard to put up with? As soon as they were back on tour, she'd make sure he never forgot those words.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Oh my God, we're back again!" Lexi sang playfully as she ran onto the stage.
"Oh yea!" Sarah yelled running out.
"Y'all are nuts." Claudia said tagging behind.
"Okay girls, calm down. It's time for rehearsal, aiight?" Cassie warned.
"Yeah, stop goofing off. Let's get to work." Katie snapped.
The girls looked down to where she sat stretching. She looked positively grumpy, she was frowning fiercely. They all thought this was very out of character for her, but kept quiet. They all knew the consequences of annoying Katie.
"Welcome back girls." Howie smiled walking out. He gave them each a hug, then paused seeing Katie frustration. "Um. you okay Rebel?"
"I'm fine," she simply said. "Can we start now?" She looked at the girls pointedly. They all shrugged and got into position.
Claudia counted them off from the front. " 'Kay, five, six. Howie can you hit the music? Five, six, seven, eight." Howie cued the music.
Nick watched from the side of the stage, smiling as the girls danced gracefully. They really did belong on the stage, he thought. Unfortunately, he knew Katie was still pissed at him. He simply sighed.
"Hey you." Brian grinned at nick as he stood beside him. "What's going on?"
Nick nodded to the stage. "Just rehearsals."
Brian's eyes went out to the stage and his smile widened. "Cool."
Nick saw Brian's gaze follow Lexi and he wondered what was going on with those two. He knew Brian was still with Leighanne, but he could also see that Brian was crazy over Lexi. He couldn't blame him though. She was a knockout with long legs, sparkling eyes, and a bright smile.
Nick's eyes roamed to the others and focused on Sarah. She had just messed up and was laughing as she continued, hoping nobody would notice. He could see Sarah and AJ as a couple in the end. If only AJ would see it too!
Nick chuckled to himself. If he really thought about it they could all find a perfect match with the girls - except him. The only one left would be Katie and there was no way in hell he would be stuck with her!
"Earth to Nick! Come in, Nick." Brian waved a hand in his face.
Nick blinked, then stared at Brian. "Huh?"
Brian laughed. "I asked you what was so funny."
"Oh. that. I was just thinking to myself."
"Bout what?" Brian asked innocently.
Nick shook himself mentally. "Trust me. You don't wanna know."
Brian laughed again, then saw that Nick was serious. Not wanting to have to explain he mumbled something about going to call his mom and ran off. He escaped to the dressing room and shut the door. What in the world made him think about Katie and him being a couple?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~**~*~*
Katie sank onto the couch tiredly as soon as rehearsals were done. The other girls were out in the parking lot eating lunch. Se was too tired though. So she escaped to get a nap. She sighed deeply and closed her eyes.
KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!
Katie groaned. Did she have to get that? She mentally noted that she was the only one in the room meaning she had to. Letting out a deep breath she pushed off the couch and opened the door. Nobody was there. Suddenly a bright bouquet of flowers caught her attention. She scooped them up and brought them in the room. She was looking for a card when Sarah walked in.
"Hey Katie, I brought you some food," she said carrying a plate piled with sandwiches..
Katie burst out laughing. "I'm not THAT hungry."
"Oh!" Sarah smiled as she looked down at her plate. "That was mine. This is yours." She handed her a plate with one lone sandwich. "Hey. Who are those for?" She asked noticing the flowers.
Katie swallowed her bite then answered. "You. I just fond the card when you came in."
"Awww AJ shouldn't have." Sarah giggled.
"How do you know it was AJ?"Katie wondered.
Sarah laughed. "Duh! The guy's crazy about me even though he won't admit it."
"Sure." Katie said sounding unconvinced. Sarah opened the card. Katie was amazed to see her cousin frown. "What is it? Did AJ break up with you or something?"
Sarah simply shrugged, "No, nothing like that."
"Oh," was all Katie said. Something was bothering Sarah and she wondered what it could be.
"Well, I'm gonna go get myself a soda." Sarah said brightly.
Katie watched her cousin leave, then sighed. She wondered who had sent the flowers, but the card was with Sarah so she wouldn't know anytime soon. She sighed again and laid back down on the couch, this time feeling totally drained of all energy. Before she knew it, she was fast asleep.
"Hello? Y'all decent in there or what?" Nick said softly as he pushed open the door to the girls' dressing room. He had knocked once, but nobody answered. "Um. girls? You in here?"
He came into the room totally and looked around. His gaze fell to Katie curled up on the couch. She looked so innocent asleep. maybe she should just sleep all the time.
He moved closer and leaned over her, checking to see that she really was sleeping. Her breathing was even and she had a little smile on her face as if she was dreaming.
Nick wondered what she would dream about to make her so happy. It certainly wasn't him. It seemed like she never liked him! Nick sighed and turned to leave.
"Nick."
Her soft murmur stopped him in his tracks. For a second he thought she woke up, but when he turned around, he found out she was still asleep. Was she faking? No. So why had she said his name? Was she dreaming about him? A stupid grin spread across his face. Katie dreaming about him, huh? Then again, she could be strangling the life out of him. Somehow, he didn't think that was it.
"Mmm. Nick." Katie sighed as he smile widened.
Nick's eyebrows raised to his hairline. She was dreaming about him. He also knew from her tone that she was killing him. He wondered what that meant.
He really should be leaving, he thought. He turned away and left the room, quietly closing the door behind him. He took a deep breath, then let it out slowly. He needed to get his mind off everything - especially Katie!
Inside the room, Katie shot up straight. She could've sworn somebody was watching her sleep. She hoped they weren't there long because she always talked in her sleep, especially when her dreams were vivid! Damn, that one was vivid. her and Nick had been. Katie blushed as she remembered it.
She must be going nuts. Dreaming about her hated enemy! Doing all that with him.geez, she WAS losing it. She suddenly frowned. Was that his cologne she smelt? She could've sworn there was the slightest trace of Gravity in the air. Okay, she really was losing it now.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A few days later, the guys went over some dance moves while the girls watched with mild interest. Josh was nearby with some toys.
"Hey Lex, pass me that book you're using for a table." Sarah said, gesturing to the book Lexi was doing her nails on.
"Why? I'm using it." Lexi replied
"Yea, well, I want to read it. Which is what it was created for." Sarah shot back.
Lexi rolled her eyes. "Fine. here."
Katie watched as her sister stuck out her tongue, then laughed as Sarah, without looking up gave Lexi the finger. Lexi gasped then kicked Sarah in the shin.
"Ow!" Sarah yelped. "You little."
"Hey. that's enough." Cassie said quickly, cutting off Sarah before she let out a curse.
The 2 girls each muttered an apology. Cassie rolled her eyes and called Josh over to her. Katie smiled as he rushed over to his Mommy and showed off his new toy.
"Hey Katie, can I ask you something?" Claudia asked.
Katie looked over at her. "What's up?"
"Tell me how this sounds." Claudia said, clearing her throat.
"Hold up! You wrote another song?" Katie asked surprised. "Girl, you've been writing and dancing like crazy lately. Am I missing something or what?"
"No," Claudia laughed lightly. "I just, uh, wanted to."
"Whateva." Katie smiled. "Hit me with the jam sista."
Claudia giggled then sang what she wrote. Katie listened patiently then suggested some improvements and Claudia was off scribbling down lyrics again.
Katie sighed as se rose slowly and went to the cooler to get a bottle of water out of the ice. Nick had come over to do the same. A jolt of awareness shot through her arm and she jumped back.
Katie let go of the bottle and looked up at him startled. Nick looked pretty shocked too, because he forgot about the bottle. They hadn't been close to each other in . well ages. They worked so hard avoiding each other they weren't used to being that close. They seemed to be hypnotized, staring into each other's eyes with confused shock on their faces.
"Oh. sorry. You can have the water." Nick told her, looking away finally. For some reason he was having trouble breathing right.
Katie shook her head. "It's okay. Take it. You've been dancing all afternoon."
"I don't need it." Nick said firmly.
"Yes you do," she looked him over, swallowing hard. "You're all sweaty. and hot."
Nick tried to smile. "Guess that's what dancing can do to a person."
She cleared her throat. "Look Nick, just take the water. I can get another one from our dressing room."
'No, I insist." He picked up the water and held it out to her with an engaging smile.
She pushed it back at him. "I want you to take it."
"I don't want it." Nick said clenching his teeth slightly, holding it in front of her.
"Why are you being so stubborn?" Katie asked in exasperation, pushing it back at him.
"Me? Stubborn?" Nick asked in disbelief. "Uh uh, you're the one being stubborn. Just take the damn water bottle Katie." He handed it back to her.
"I'm not being stubborn, Nick. I'm trying to be polite." She said stiffly.
"I don't care. Just take the water!" Nick aid, a little too loudly.
"I don't want it!" Katie protested.
"Damn Katie, just take the stupid bottle and drink it." He placed the bottle in her hands and turned away.
"I said I don't want it." She repeated, dropping the bottle back into the cooler.
He stopped. Without turning to face her, he placed his hands on his hips and looked heavenward. He mumbled something about patience, then finally turned to stare her down.
His eyes flicked over her entire body and locked eyes with her. She shifted slightly. A trembling started in her stomach and she couldn't make it go away.
"Just take the water." Nick said softly.
"But I."
"Take it." He said again, stepping closer.
Katie held her breath as Nick moved towards her. His arms brushed her stiff body as he reached into the cooler and pulled out the bottle. When he held it in front of her, she took it, not being able to tear her dark green eye from his bright blue ones. He smiled, releasing the bottle in her shaky hands.
"I want you to have it," Nick said in a half whisper. "All of it."
The words, though quite simple, held so many meanings. His tone conjured up so many images of what they could do with "all of it". She slinked slowly, realizing he was still standing before her.
"This isn't fair," Katie protested weakly. "I'm supposed to be mad at you. you were so cruel! You said."
Nick stilled her words with a gentle finger to her lips. "All those words I said when we were fighting, don't mean anything."
The hurt in her eyes shone clearly. He cursed himself for putting it there, but he decided he didn't wanna fight anymore. not with Katie anyway.
After all those arguments and battles between them, he realized he never hated her. Nick's eyes widened with surprise as he came to the realization he loved her!
"I'm sorry," she finally said, still staring into his eyes.
"Me too," he agreed in a gentle tone. Sorry for being too stupid to realize how special she was to him.
"Um. excuse me guys." Q, the security guard, interrupted. He was carrying an envelope. "Sarah, this is for you."
Katie sighed. Of course her moment had to be ruined. She looked back up at Nick while Sarah took the envelope. Nick grinned down at her touching her face gently. He kissed her forehead gently, then slipped away to change out of his workout clothes.
"Yep, that moment was definitely ruined," she thought. "Dammit Sarah."
"Hey Sarah, you got a secret admirer?" Lexi teased. "You got flowers a little while ago. now this."
Sarah laughed. "No, it's just a letter."
"Who sent you the flowers?" AJ eyed her carefully.
Sarah hesitated. "A friend."
AJ wasn't too convinced, but Katie watched Sarah read it, then quickly leave. Everyone let it pass, but Katie knew something was wrong.
Nick reappeared just then, catching Katie's gaze. This is going to be one hell of a tour, she thought.
The guys sat in stunned silence as Kevin told them the news. Kevin was a father - had been for almost five years- and Cassie was the mother. That explained why the girls were taken off the tour. The guys couldn't help but feel bad.
"So.they're not coming back?" Nick asked worriedly.
"Oh they'll be back." Kevin stated confidently. "I'll make sure of that."
Nick saw the determination in Kevin's eyes, and hoped he was right. The girls deserved everything good in their lives. Nick was sure of that, even though Katie did get to him once and a while.
He thought about how sad he felt when the girls were packing. However, having a baby wasn't exactly a sin and it wasn't fair they had to go through this.
"Hey Fellas." Fatima came into the backstage area seeing the guys. "What's wrong?"
"You mean you haven't heard?" Brian questioned.
"Obviously not, B-rok. Would I be askin' if I knew?"
"Well, let me explain. It is my fault, ya know." Kevin said.
"Somebody explain. and hurry." Fatima said interested.
They all listened as Kevin explained everything again. Fatima looked shocked, but then understanding. The guys missed the girls; well at least Nick knew he did.
Nick enjoyed having the girls around. Lexi was always willing to play a videogame with him. Sarah always had some kinda of joke. Cassie was always sweet. Claudia, she was nice and everyday she split a Twix with him at break. Then Katie, Nick thought glumly, was fun too - when she wasn't kicking his ass at something.
"Well.I feel terrible baby." Fatima said sympathetically, hugging Kevin before looking at the others. "You guys must be pretty shaken up too, huh?" They all nodded. "Especially AJ, you must be missing Sarah."
"What makes you say that?" AJ wondered.
Fatima grinned. "Oh. I see the way you be lookin' at her sometimes. Fatima knows, honey."
AJ remained silent, but Nick saw the blush in his cheeks. He knew how crazy Sarah was about AJ because she told him a few days ago. He could easily see the two dating, but AJ wasn't the type of guy to stick around forever.
"And Nicky will be missing Katie," she smiled.
Nick blinked. "I will?"
Fatima laughed. "Of course you will baby boy. As much as she annoys you, you like her."
Nick grinned. "Maybe. I mean, it's funny when she gets angry. She looks. cute."
The guys laughed and Nick joined in, but he realized he was telling the truth. Katie was adorable when she got angry. Her eyes would light up, and she'd argue until she got her way. Maybe that's why Nick liked annoying her.
"It's just a shame y'all lost them so soon." Fatima shook her head sadly.
"Don't worry, Fatima. We'll get them back." Nick said solemnly. "Right Kev?"
He nodded. "Yea, little brother, we will."
Fatima smiled brightly. She knew how much those girls had come to mean to the guys even if they didn't admit it. She grew to love those girls too. Yes, they would be back on tour.and back in their lives.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Katie sighed deeply as she heard her cell phone ring. She hadn't left her apartment or answered the phone in days, but she suddenly had an urge to pick it up. Rolling over she snatched it off the floor. "Hello," she mumbled.
"Hey Kat, it's me, Nick."
Katie was shocked. "Nick? Nick Carter?"
He laughed. "Well, yeah. How many Nick's do you know?"
She couldn't stop the smile spreading across her face. "Enough to ask."
"Oh, cool," Nick replied. "Um look Kat, I just. I just called to say that I'm sorry you got taken off the tour."
Katie stiffened at his apology. She didn't like being reminded of what happened and she didn't need him rubbing it in her face. "I don' think that it was fair for Jive to do that even though you girls are well." Nick trailed off not knowing how to describe the situation.
"We're a scandal." Katie finished smoothly, ready to hang up.
"I wouldn't say a scandal really, it's like." Nick searched for the word, then cursed himself for not being able to find the right one.
"Face it, Nick, that's what we are." Katie replied briskly. Why did it hurt so much to admit it. Maybe because deep inside she didn't want Nick to think they were bad. She let out a noisy breath. "Look Nick, I really don't feel like talking now, and I don't like the fact we're screw ups being rubbed in my face by you. So if it's all the same to you, I'd like to say goodbye."
"Now hold on girlie, I wasn't rubbing anything in your face!" Nick argued. "I called because." Nick hesitated. Why had he called? He certainly had no good reason.. He just needed to know she was okay.
"Because why?" Katie prodded, curiosity not a big help.
"Because I." Nick didn't know how to explain his sudden urge to see her. talk to her. hell even fighting with her would be fun! He sighed. "I just wanted to say I'm sorry."
"Nick, I have to go." Katie said, lying through her teeth.
"Well, okay, but." Nick hesitated again, not sure what to say. "Just know that we're doing everything it takes to get you girls back."
"Why in the world would you do that?" Katie asked puzzled
"Because that's where you belong." Nick said simply.
Katie didn't know why, but Nick's words sounded right. P.U.R.E Harmony did belong there on tour. with the guys. She hadn't realized she was crying until she felt a tear fall onto her hand. She stared at it, amazed that Nick had moved her so much. He always seemed to make her mad.
She sighed. "I really have to go now, Nick."
"Okay. Bye Kat." Nick said softly. He heard her say goodbye, then hang up. With the phone still to his ear, he whispered, "I miss you." Then carefully, he placed the phone back on the hook and went to bed.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"I've figured out a way to get them back!" Nick announced. "It's perfect."
"What's the plan?" AJ wondered.
Nick sat down facing the guys and smiled. "Well I was watching TV this morning and I was thinking there has to be a way to straighten everything out, right?"
"That's what this whole meeting is for." Howie chuckled.
"Right. So I was thinking we should hold a press conference." Nick smirked.
"A press conference?" Kevin asked in amazement. "For what?"
Nick beamed. "To help out the girls. We would all be there. The whole world would tune in, and we could say straight out the girls are great! So what if Cassie has a kid? Who doesn't have a kid these days? And from what I know she's gotta be a great mom, right."
"True." Kevin looked thoughtful. "Yea Nick, she is a great mom."
"Well, there ya go!" Nick laughed. "Have a press conference, set everybody straight, and BAM! They're back on tour."
"You really think that'll work?" Howie asked uncertainly.
"Of course it will." Nick said.
"Nick, buddy, calm down. We'll figure something out." AJ said.
Just because he was the youngest member of the group, the guys barely ever took him seriously, except Brian, who gave him an encouraging smile. Nick didn't return the smile though, because he knew they'd end up doing the press conference.
After sitting around for nearly an hour, Kevin finally gave up. He said Nick was right.
"See? I told you," he muttered.
"All right, so ya did." Kevin shrugged. "Now, all we have to do is convince the girls."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"There is no way in hell I'm doing a press conference." Katie stated firmly, crossing her arms over her chest. The other girls remained silent.
"What? Are you crazy?" Nick exclaimed. "Kat, this is your chance to prove you girls are worth something!"
"By parading around like an idiot claiming I'm 'Miss Perfect'!" Katie retorted. "No way! I have nothing to prove to anybody!"
He looked to the girls for some help and they shrugged. This was not going as he planned. "Ok, Kat, listen," he said slowly. "I know you may not want to do this, but."
"But nothing, Carter. I'm not doing it and that's final." Katie snapped.
Nick was getting a big headache. "Katie, you're not listening! If you'd."
"No!" She shouted. "I have nothing to prove to these people! If they can't see that I'm just a normal person then screw them!"
Nick had enough. "Dammit Katie, we're trying to help you and you're being a stubborn little brat! When are you going to grow up and face the truth? You have to do something and this is your only hope!"
"Who the hell do you think you are calling me a brat?!" Katie practically screamed. "You've got some nerve telling me to grow up when you spend your spare time playing video games and watching cartoons!"
"At least I know how to have fun!" Nick shot back. "I don't spend hours trying to look good for people who don't give two shits what I look like anyway! Who are you trying to impress with all that make-up during rehearsals anyway, Katie? The forty-something crew members!"
Everyone in the tiny room gasped. This argument was getting out of hand, but the others were too chicken to stop them. Nobody wanted to get in the middle of this war.
"Well you can be sure I'm not trying to impress you!" Katie stated bluntly. "Because I wouldn't want a loser like you hitting on me!"
"Who says I would even try?" Nick yelled. "I don't go for short, scrawny, brats that don't know when to shut the hell up!"
"Well I don't go for 21-year-olds who act their damn shoe size and can't even keep up a good conversation!" She shot back.
"What makes you think anything you say is good?" Nick shouted angrily.
"At least I have things to say." Katie said finally.
"That's enough!" Kevin said over all the yelling. "You two have no more say in this matter, you hear me?"
"But Kevin." Nick looked as if to say it wasn't his fault.
"No more." Kevin repeated. "You got me?" Nick nodded. "That goes for you too Katie." She looked away and he took that as a good enough agreement. "Now, we came here to talk about this press conference. Whether or not ALL you girls are there, we are doing this. So what's it going to be?"
The girls who had been silent earlier, ignored Katie's glare when they said they'd be there. The press conference would be exactly what they needed.
"All right it's settled." Kevin said with a nod. "So we're going to have this." He proceeded to tell the girls the rest of the important details.
"So, it's all set." Lexi murmured. "We're really going to do this."
"Yup." Brian nodded. "You going to be okay?"
Lexi smiled. "I'll be fine." She turned away quickly before she was tempted to tell Brian what she was feeling.
"It'll be good to have you girls back." AJ commented, looking at Sarah.
"Ya miss us that much, huh?" Sarah had to smile.
"Well yeah," AJ shrugged. "Who else would I have to go shopping with?"
"Guess that's all I'm good for, huh?" Sarah teased.
"No," AJ shook his head. "More than that."
"Well I'll be glad to be back." Claudia spoke up. "It's boring at home."
"You work too hard." Howie said to her.
"That's what it's all about though, isn't it?" Claudia smiled. "The fight to be number one."
Howie shrugged. "Maybe. maybe not."
"I can't believe I'm doing this." Katie muttered.
"Believe it, Katie." Nick said. "You best believe it."
Katie glared at him. She knew this was all his idea. Why was it so important for the girls to be back on tour? Ad why did Katie want to be back there anyway?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*
Nick sat tensely behind the table as the questions were fired at both groups. He had sat in on so many press conferences, but this one had him on edge. He wanted so badly for this to work. It just had to.
"Unique, now that the world knows about your son, how will this affect your life?"
Cassie smiled nervously. "I doubt it will be any different. I'll still have Josh and I'll still make my music. That's not much of a change if you ask me."
"But what about the father? It showed no father on the birth certificate. He obviously must be aware of him now."
Katie sat back, feeling like ripping her hair out. This is exactly what she didn't want to happen.
Cassie was deathly still now, not knowing how to respond. She hadn't told anyone who the father was, and just recently told the girls it was Kevin! Katie was sure her cousin was going to have a nervous break down any second now.
Nick saw the pain in Cassie's eyes, and felt sorry because he was the one who put it there. His gaze fell to Katie who was glaring evilly at him. Whether this press conference worked or not, he had the feeling she'd never be happy with him again.
"The father of my son," Cassie started slowly, "Is aware of him, and maybe I shouldn't have kept it from him. But I know I can't keep them from being together. It's only fair to share custody."
Nick never thought that would come out here. His gaze flew to Kevin who was smiling broadly. So Kevin would be able to be a father to his son; he looked ecstatic.
"What about the other girls? How do you feel about all this?"
"We've always known about JJ." Lexi replied shyly. "We never kept it a secret from the people it mattered to. In our eyes, Cassie is still a great person. She always will be."
"Lexi's right." Brian spoke up. "All of these girls are wonderful, loving people. Protecting that little guy proves that. They didn't want this to happen. What business is it anybody's to go poking into his life just because of who his mother is?"
"Or who his father is?" Kevin added.
"Who is the father?"
Everyone seemed to hold their breath, waiting for the reply. Te tension in the room was so thick it was almost unbearable. The whole room was alive with anticipation and it was driving Katie insane.
"Does it really matter who the hell his father is?" She broke the silence. "Who cares? That little boy is been put on display for you people! That was something Cassie never wanted! How can you people put a child through such vicious scandals and rumors? No child deserves this. Not one!"
Katie was right, as rude as she was being, she was right. Nick watched her with admiration in every one of his features. Katie knew how to dish it out, but he realized what a good trait that could be.
The questions soon reverted to the general promotion of the groups.
"I think I speak for all of us when I say that all though these girls can be stubborn, challenging, and really hard to put up with sometimes. It's all these traits that'll help them fight back and succeed." Nick said.
"P.U.R.E Harmony will be reinstated to the tour as of next week." A manger stated.
The few fans that squeezed into the room cheered wildly. The girls started smiling uncontrollably.
Katie frowned. Okay, so Nick's idea worked, but what was that about them being stubborn, challenging, and hard to put up with? As soon as they were back on tour, she'd make sure he never forgot those words.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Oh my God, we're back again!" Lexi sang playfully as she ran onto the stage.
"Oh yea!" Sarah yelled running out.
"Y'all are nuts." Claudia said tagging behind.
"Okay girls, calm down. It's time for rehearsal, aiight?" Cassie warned.
"Yeah, stop goofing off. Let's get to work." Katie snapped.
The girls looked down to where she sat stretching. She looked positively grumpy, she was frowning fiercely. They all thought this was very out of character for her, but kept quiet. They all knew the consequences of annoying Katie.
"Welcome back girls." Howie smiled walking out. He gave them each a hug, then paused seeing Katie frustration. "Um. you okay Rebel?"
"I'm fine," she simply said. "Can we start now?" She looked at the girls pointedly. They all shrugged and got into position.
Claudia counted them off from the front. " 'Kay, five, six. Howie can you hit the music? Five, six, seven, eight." Howie cued the music.
Nick watched from the side of the stage, smiling as the girls danced gracefully. They really did belong on the stage, he thought. Unfortunately, he knew Katie was still pissed at him. He simply sighed.
"Hey you." Brian grinned at nick as he stood beside him. "What's going on?"
Nick nodded to the stage. "Just rehearsals."
Brian's eyes went out to the stage and his smile widened. "Cool."
Nick saw Brian's gaze follow Lexi and he wondered what was going on with those two. He knew Brian was still with Leighanne, but he could also see that Brian was crazy over Lexi. He couldn't blame him though. She was a knockout with long legs, sparkling eyes, and a bright smile.
Nick's eyes roamed to the others and focused on Sarah. She had just messed up and was laughing as she continued, hoping nobody would notice. He could see Sarah and AJ as a couple in the end. If only AJ would see it too!
Nick chuckled to himself. If he really thought about it they could all find a perfect match with the girls - except him. The only one left would be Katie and there was no way in hell he would be stuck with her!
"Earth to Nick! Come in, Nick." Brian waved a hand in his face.
Nick blinked, then stared at Brian. "Huh?"
Brian laughed. "I asked you what was so funny."
"Oh. that. I was just thinking to myself."
"Bout what?" Brian asked innocently.
Nick shook himself mentally. "Trust me. You don't wanna know."
Brian laughed again, then saw that Nick was serious. Not wanting to have to explain he mumbled something about going to call his mom and ran off. He escaped to the dressing room and shut the door. What in the world made him think about Katie and him being a couple?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~**~*~*
Katie sank onto the couch tiredly as soon as rehearsals were done. The other girls were out in the parking lot eating lunch. Se was too tired though. So she escaped to get a nap. She sighed deeply and closed her eyes.
KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!
Katie groaned. Did she have to get that? She mentally noted that she was the only one in the room meaning she had to. Letting out a deep breath she pushed off the couch and opened the door. Nobody was there. Suddenly a bright bouquet of flowers caught her attention. She scooped them up and brought them in the room. She was looking for a card when Sarah walked in.
"Hey Katie, I brought you some food," she said carrying a plate piled with sandwiches..
Katie burst out laughing. "I'm not THAT hungry."
"Oh!" Sarah smiled as she looked down at her plate. "That was mine. This is yours." She handed her a plate with one lone sandwich. "Hey. Who are those for?" She asked noticing the flowers.
Katie swallowed her bite then answered. "You. I just fond the card when you came in."
"Awww AJ shouldn't have." Sarah giggled.
"How do you know it was AJ?"Katie wondered.
Sarah laughed. "Duh! The guy's crazy about me even though he won't admit it."
"Sure." Katie said sounding unconvinced. Sarah opened the card. Katie was amazed to see her cousin frown. "What is it? Did AJ break up with you or something?"
Sarah simply shrugged, "No, nothing like that."
"Oh," was all Katie said. Something was bothering Sarah and she wondered what it could be.
"Well, I'm gonna go get myself a soda." Sarah said brightly.
Katie watched her cousin leave, then sighed. She wondered who had sent the flowers, but the card was with Sarah so she wouldn't know anytime soon. She sighed again and laid back down on the couch, this time feeling totally drained of all energy. Before she knew it, she was fast asleep.
"Hello? Y'all decent in there or what?" Nick said softly as he pushed open the door to the girls' dressing room. He had knocked once, but nobody answered. "Um. girls? You in here?"
He came into the room totally and looked around. His gaze fell to Katie curled up on the couch. She looked so innocent asleep. maybe she should just sleep all the time.
He moved closer and leaned over her, checking to see that she really was sleeping. Her breathing was even and she had a little smile on her face as if she was dreaming.
Nick wondered what she would dream about to make her so happy. It certainly wasn't him. It seemed like she never liked him! Nick sighed and turned to leave.
"Nick."
Her soft murmur stopped him in his tracks. For a second he thought she woke up, but when he turned around, he found out she was still asleep. Was she faking? No. So why had she said his name? Was she dreaming about him? A stupid grin spread across his face. Katie dreaming about him, huh? Then again, she could be strangling the life out of him. Somehow, he didn't think that was it.
"Mmm. Nick." Katie sighed as he smile widened.
Nick's eyebrows raised to his hairline. She was dreaming about him. He also knew from her tone that she was killing him. He wondered what that meant.
He really should be leaving, he thought. He turned away and left the room, quietly closing the door behind him. He took a deep breath, then let it out slowly. He needed to get his mind off everything - especially Katie!
Inside the room, Katie shot up straight. She could've sworn somebody was watching her sleep. She hoped they weren't there long because she always talked in her sleep, especially when her dreams were vivid! Damn, that one was vivid. her and Nick had been. Katie blushed as she remembered it.
She must be going nuts. Dreaming about her hated enemy! Doing all that with him.geez, she WAS losing it. She suddenly frowned. Was that his cologne she smelt? She could've sworn there was the slightest trace of Gravity in the air. Okay, she really was losing it now.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A few days later, the guys went over some dance moves while the girls watched with mild interest. Josh was nearby with some toys.
"Hey Lex, pass me that book you're using for a table." Sarah said, gesturing to the book Lexi was doing her nails on.
"Why? I'm using it." Lexi replied
"Yea, well, I want to read it. Which is what it was created for." Sarah shot back.
Lexi rolled her eyes. "Fine. here."
Katie watched as her sister stuck out her tongue, then laughed as Sarah, without looking up gave Lexi the finger. Lexi gasped then kicked Sarah in the shin.
"Ow!" Sarah yelped. "You little."
"Hey. that's enough." Cassie said quickly, cutting off Sarah before she let out a curse.
The 2 girls each muttered an apology. Cassie rolled her eyes and called Josh over to her. Katie smiled as he rushed over to his Mommy and showed off his new toy.
"Hey Katie, can I ask you something?" Claudia asked.
Katie looked over at her. "What's up?"
"Tell me how this sounds." Claudia said, clearing her throat.
"Hold up! You wrote another song?" Katie asked surprised. "Girl, you've been writing and dancing like crazy lately. Am I missing something or what?"
"No," Claudia laughed lightly. "I just, uh, wanted to."
"Whateva." Katie smiled. "Hit me with the jam sista."
Claudia giggled then sang what she wrote. Katie listened patiently then suggested some improvements and Claudia was off scribbling down lyrics again.
Katie sighed as se rose slowly and went to the cooler to get a bottle of water out of the ice. Nick had come over to do the same. A jolt of awareness shot through her arm and she jumped back.
Katie let go of the bottle and looked up at him startled. Nick looked pretty shocked too, because he forgot about the bottle. They hadn't been close to each other in . well ages. They worked so hard avoiding each other they weren't used to being that close. They seemed to be hypnotized, staring into each other's eyes with confused shock on their faces.
"Oh. sorry. You can have the water." Nick told her, looking away finally. For some reason he was having trouble breathing right.
Katie shook her head. "It's okay. Take it. You've been dancing all afternoon."
"I don't need it." Nick said firmly.
"Yes you do," she looked him over, swallowing hard. "You're all sweaty. and hot."
Nick tried to smile. "Guess that's what dancing can do to a person."
She cleared her throat. "Look Nick, just take the water. I can get another one from our dressing room."
'No, I insist." He picked up the water and held it out to her with an engaging smile.
She pushed it back at him. "I want you to take it."
"I don't want it." Nick said clenching his teeth slightly, holding it in front of her.
"Why are you being so stubborn?" Katie asked in exasperation, pushing it back at him.
"Me? Stubborn?" Nick asked in disbelief. "Uh uh, you're the one being stubborn. Just take the damn water bottle Katie." He handed it back to her.
"I'm not being stubborn, Nick. I'm trying to be polite." She said stiffly.
"I don't care. Just take the water!" Nick aid, a little too loudly.
"I don't want it!" Katie protested.
"Damn Katie, just take the stupid bottle and drink it." He placed the bottle in her hands and turned away.
"I said I don't want it." She repeated, dropping the bottle back into the cooler.
He stopped. Without turning to face her, he placed his hands on his hips and looked heavenward. He mumbled something about patience, then finally turned to stare her down.
His eyes flicked over her entire body and locked eyes with her. She shifted slightly. A trembling started in her stomach and she couldn't make it go away.
"Just take the water." Nick said softly.
"But I."
"Take it." He said again, stepping closer.
Katie held her breath as Nick moved towards her. His arms brushed her stiff body as he reached into the cooler and pulled out the bottle. When he held it in front of her, she took it, not being able to tear her dark green eye from his bright blue ones. He smiled, releasing the bottle in her shaky hands.
"I want you to have it," Nick said in a half whisper. "All of it."
The words, though quite simple, held so many meanings. His tone conjured up so many images of what they could do with "all of it". She slinked slowly, realizing he was still standing before her.
"This isn't fair," Katie protested weakly. "I'm supposed to be mad at you. you were so cruel! You said."
Nick stilled her words with a gentle finger to her lips. "All those words I said when we were fighting, don't mean anything."
The hurt in her eyes shone clearly. He cursed himself for putting it there, but he decided he didn't wanna fight anymore. not with Katie anyway.
After all those arguments and battles between them, he realized he never hated her. Nick's eyes widened with surprise as he came to the realization he loved her!
"I'm sorry," she finally said, still staring into his eyes.
"Me too," he agreed in a gentle tone. Sorry for being too stupid to realize how special she was to him.
"Um. excuse me guys." Q, the security guard, interrupted. He was carrying an envelope. "Sarah, this is for you."
Katie sighed. Of course her moment had to be ruined. She looked back up at Nick while Sarah took the envelope. Nick grinned down at her touching her face gently. He kissed her forehead gently, then slipped away to change out of his workout clothes.
"Yep, that moment was definitely ruined," she thought. "Dammit Sarah."
"Hey Sarah, you got a secret admirer?" Lexi teased. "You got flowers a little while ago. now this."
Sarah laughed. "No, it's just a letter."
"Who sent you the flowers?" AJ eyed her carefully.
Sarah hesitated. "A friend."
AJ wasn't too convinced, but Katie watched Sarah read it, then quickly leave. Everyone let it pass, but Katie knew something was wrong.
Nick reappeared just then, catching Katie's gaze. This is going to be one hell of a tour, she thought.