This takes place the day before Jude's 18th birthday. She is getting ready to go out with Shay who she hss been dating for almost 6 months now. He realized he was wrong about Eden and Jude forgave him. He, after all, was her first real boyfriend. Her first real kiss.
Chapter 1
Jude is standing in front of her mirror talking to herself: "I can't believe I'm finally turning 18. I wonder if Tommy is thinking about me, wherever he is."
"Jude are you ready yet? We're running late. AGAIN" Shay yelled from downstairs. Jude so caught up in her thoughts was finally snapped out of them when Shay came up to her room. "Wow, you look amazing. That dress really becomes you".
He goes over to her and puts his arms around her. Jude responds by giving him a quick kiss on his right cheek and puts her arms around his neck.
"Maybe because it's really tight on me. I mean you could have picked up a bigger size when you chose it for me" Jude said sarcastically "But I love it."
Shay pushed her away gently so he could look at her, and just smiled "Shorty, I knew you would. Now come on, we have reservations". He grabs her hand and they leave to the restaurant.
Back To Tommy
Tommy is in a hotel room, picks up the phone and dials some digits.
Kwest: "Hello?"
Tommy: "Hey man. It's Tommy."
Kwest doesn't respond for a few seconds astonished to hear from Tommy after almost 5 months without a word.
Kwest: "Well I'll be damned. Man where have you been? What's been going on with you?"
Tommy: "Long story man. I'm in town.."
Kwest: "You mean you're back? Why am I not surprised? You know what tomorrow is, right?"
Tommy: "Jude's birthday. As if I could forget. Listen, do you know where she is? I've been trying to call her but her phone is disconnected."
Kwest: "Yeah, Shay got her a new one. They're out to dinner at some classy restaurant. Tommy don't ruin it for her. Not again."
Tommy: "Man I don't know what your talking about. So she's still with that punk? I can't believe she of all people fell for a guy like him after what he did to her at her Sweet 16. She deserves so much better."
Kwest: "Better? You mean YOU?"
Tommy: "Just someone who isn't Shay. Listen man, I have to go, alright? I'll probably stop by the studio later."
Kwest: "I don't think that's a good id- Hello? Tommy?"
Before Kwest could finish the sentence he heard a click and then a beep…….
Kwest: "Oh great, Jude is going to flip."
Tommy walks out of the hotel room and towards the elevator thinking to himself "I can't believe she is still with him. I wonder if she missed me. I can't believe how much I missed her. She had to miss me too, right? I mean come on it's Jude. My Jude. The one I spend all those long nights with, working at the studio. The one who was there for me when I needed someone. The one that always understood what I was saying and never doubted me." Tommy is walking down the street now towards the garage to get his blue Viper. He missed the car. But as he unlocked the door and sat in it all he could think about was him and Jude and the rides they took together. He started the engine and just drove off not even thinking of where he was going.
Back To Jude
Jude and Shay arrive at the restaurant in they're black stretch limo and open the door. As they do they're bombarded with flashes of cameras and questions from photographers and tabloid magazines.
"Jude, how do you feel turning 18?" asked one reported.
The other yelled "Jude do you know if Tommy is coming back anytime soon?"
At this Jude's mind just started to race to all they're memories. Everything they had been through. He had always been her rock. Her strength. Her shoulder to cry on. Jude's face went blank. She couldn't help being mad at him walking out on her right after her 2nd album was released. He didn't even leave a note. Not one single word. The rage inside of her started to take over and she looked at Shay for support.
"That's enough gentleman! Jude has no contact with Tommy and doesn't know if he'll ever be back" Shay responded to the reporters question.
OMG Shay is right. What if Tommy never comes back? What if he walked away for good? I should be mad. So why aren't I? It's not like I love him. I love Shay. I am with Shay. It's just that Tommy has this effect on me. I don't know what it is but right now it's just better that he's not around. Jude thought to herself.
"Jude? Come on. Lets go inside" Shay said as he took her hand gently in his and she followed his lead to the entrance. As they walk towards their table following the hostess Shay turns toward Jude and plants a kiss on her.
"Sorry, You just looked irresistible in this light. I had to take advantage of it." He said smiling gently at her as Jude put her left hand on his left cheek and kissed his right one.
"You've been taking advantage of me a lot lately." Jude responded smiling coyly. "Not that I'm complaining".
As Jude and Shay went on with they're dinner they had no idea that hurricane Tommy was back in town coming to claim what he thinks is rightfully his. Jude.
The next they Jude slept in until 10:22 AM. Her mom and Sadie walked in her room singing happy birthday and carrying presents.
"Oh no. It's too early." Jude complaint rubbing her eyes, hoping she'd be able to see clearly.
"Wake up! You shouldn't sleep your 18th birthday away. Come on we got presents." Jude's mom said as she walked to the right hand-side of the bed and pulled up a chair.
"Not the whole day. Just maybe until like 2-3?" Jude said pulling her bed sheets over her head.
Now Sadie walked over to the left side of Jude's bed and pulled the sheets off "No way. Mom woke me up extra early so we could eat breakfast together, now get up!"
"Ok fine, you said something about presents?" Jude said sitting up in bed now.
"I knew all we had to mention was presents" Victoria responded and smiled as Jude moved closer and gave her mom a big hug.
"Thank you Mom, you're the best."
"Uhm what about me?" Sadie interrupted
"You too Sadie. Don't know what I would do without you." Jude said a little meaner than she had intended for it to sound. Sadie caught the mean remark and walked out of Jude's room.
"Jude, I know you guys are not getting along too well lately but she is your sister. I wish you two could just work things out already." Victoria said in a low voice that made Jude feel guilty.
"I know Mom. Me too. Look I'm going to go talk to her. All right?" Jude said giving her Mom a kiss on the cheek and walking towards Sadie's room.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
"It's open" Sadie yells.
Jude opens the door and sees Sadie looking at a picture of her Tommy and Jude. Jude sees the pictures and walks over to Sadie's bed and sits down.
"I remember the day we took that. It was when my first album went double platinum and Tommy took us both to the carnival." Jude said with hurt in her voice. Sadie looking at Jude now "Yeah, I remember him winning me a bear on one of those game things and you wouldn't leave until he got you one too." Sadie remembered smiling to herself.
"Yeah, Sadie what happened between us?" Jude asked with tears dwelling in her eyes.
"Tommy happened. That's what." Sadie said angry now. She walked over to the garbage can and threw the frame and the picture with it away.
"I'm sorry Sadie. I guess we both messed up. God I remember when we were younger we always used to say how a guy would never come between us. No matter who he was and look at us now. I don't want to fight with you anymore." Jude said her voice breaking and a tear leaving her right eye. Sadie walked over to her and put her arms around her sister.
"Jude, no matter what happens in the future I will promise you Tommy or no Tommy I'm always going to be your big sister. I can't believe we ever let him come between us."
Jude put her arms around Sadie and they both just held each other for at least 2 minutes, both remembering the day that Tommy told them that neither would have a chance with him and broke they're hearts.
"Jude, Kwest is on the phone. He says it's important." Victoria said as she walked in Sadie's room and handed Jude her cell phone.
Jude: "Hello? Kwest?"
Kwest: "Jude? Happy birthdayyyyyyyyyyy." He said in a melody as if trying to sing.
Jude: "Aw thank you, but please stick with producing." She said and giggled a little.
Kwest: "That's cold. Look I have something to tell you." His voice turned to a serious note now.
Jude: "What? Is something wrong? Kwest?"
Kwest: "Well kind of."
Jude: "Oh not today. Come on just say it."
Kwest: "Jude, I don't know how to say this so I'm just going to. Tommy is back."
Beep. Jude hung up the phone. She just stood there not comprehending that her whole life was about to be thrown into another turmoil thanks to Little Tommy Q.
Jude sat on a chair in her room. She couldn't move. She couldn't say anything. When Sadie and her Mom asked her what was wrong she just replied with a wave and walked to her room. Thoughts running through her head
"What is he thinking? Leaving without a word knowing I would worry. Knowing it would break my heart. And then coming back? He knows I'm with Shay. Am I the reason he came back? Is Sadie? Oh God this can't be happening. I can't get all worked up about him again. I just can't. Not again."
Jude's thoughts were interrupted by a Birthday songs playing loud from the outside. Jude got up and walked to her window. It was Shay. He had speakers set up all around him and was standing on a little stage under her window looking up at her. Jude's eyes filled with tears. Was it out of happiness and the smile Shay always brought to her face or was it the fact that Tommy was back? Shay put a mic to his lips and started to rap:
Shay: "Happy birthday to my one and only,
You make me feel complete, almost holy.
I'm here trying to make all of your wishes and dreams come true,
There's no where I'd rather be than here with you.
Happy birthday to the sunshine of my day,
Who always picks me up when I'm going the wrong way."
Jude couldn't believe he had written that for her. She ran down the stairs and threw her arms around him. She smiled at Shay trying to hide what was really going on inside of her.
Shay: "Happy Birthday Shorty" and he kisses her.
Jude: "I can't believe you did all of this for me. That was so sweet. Are you going soft on me?" Jude said giggling knowing Shay would complain.
Shay: "Soft? Me? Nev-"
Jude: "Shay what is it?" Jude turns around to face what Shay was looking at.
Just as Jude was forgetting about Tommy Quincy and getting in the spirit of the day his blue Viper pulls up in front of her house.
Jude just stood there frozen as Tommy, the man she once would have given up everything for, was getting out of his car and walking toward her with a bouquet of long, red Roses. Jude was overwhelmed with memories, pictures of them together.
God, he looks good. No Jude, what are you thinking? You're mad at him remember? He broke your heart, twice. Jude thought to herself as she snapped out of her little world when she saw Shay walking angry towards Tommy.
Shay: "What the hell are you doing here Saint Tommy?"
Tommy: "This is between me and Jude. Stay out of this Shay Shay. I mean it."
Tommy mean mugged Shay to show him that he was serious but Shay kept on walking towards Tommy. Jude ran after Shay and grabbed him by his hand.
Jude: "Shay stop! Please don't do this. Not today."
Shay: "Jude he has no right to be here. He'll ruin your dinner party. He'll ruin your day."
Jude sigh "He won't. I won't let him. Ok? Just let me handle him."
She kisses Shay softly on his cheek and turns toward Tommy.
Tommy: "Handle me? You say that like I'm a piece of wood." He smiles not being able to resist her. "She could have given him a kiss on the lips but she didn't, that's a good sign Tommy. Now just play it cool. Give her time." He said to himself.This is the moment he's been thinking of ever since the day he left and even though she was in her little black boxer shorts, a tank top and looked like she just walked out of a zombie movie she never looked more beautiful to him.
Jude: "What are you doing here Quince?"
She couldn't believe how ruff her voice sounded but Tommy had that effect on her. He brought raw emotion out of her and he knew it. He knew how to get to her like no one else did and it unnerved her. He just stood there looking right into her eyes. She felt like he was eating her up with his stare. Taking her in piece by piece. Finally he spoke
Tommy: "Hey Jude. Happy 18th Girl. Here these are for you."
He curved his lips into a sweet smile and handed Jude the Roses. She took them from him and looked at him. She knew he saw her pain. She did all she could to hold back her tears. She did all she could to hold back from throwing her arms around him. Finally composing herself she opened her mouth.
Jude: "Thanks. Tommy you shouldn't have come back. What are you doing here?"
Tommy: "What am I doing here? You didn't actually think I would miss your birthday? I missed you."
Shay: "Man you need to get out of here. Jude doesn't want to hear this."
Tommy: "How about you stay out of this and let her tell me herself?"
Shay walks over to Jude, grabs the Roses from her hands and throws them at Tommy's feet. Tommy walks over to Shay furious and thugs at his shirt as if he was going in for a punch just as Jude threw herself in between them.
Jude: "NO. I can't take this now. From either one of you." Tears now running down her cheeks as she turns around, hops in her car and drives away leaving everyone in shock.
Jude was driving down the street barely seeing anything in front of her. Tears streaming down her cheeks.
"I always let him get to me. Why? Why does he have his power over me? I can't believe he would show up at my house like that. Like nothing happened. But he brought me Roses. He came back for me. Not Sadie. For my birthday. God, I need to get Tommy out of my head." With her mind racing in a million different directions Jude decides to go to the studio where she can be alone for a while. No one's going to look for her there. Since it's a Sunday the studio should be empty.
Jude unlocked the door to the building and ran up the stairs to the 3rd floor. She opened the door to Studio B, the studio that had been assigned to her and Tommy before he left. As she walked through the door someone was sitting in the chair on the right side.
Jude: "What are you doing here?"
Person: "Uh I thought I'd come and finish this beat. Jude you don't look so good."
Jude puts her hands up on her face and begins to cry "Yeah well leave it to Tommy and Shay to make me feel miserable. Kwest, why are men always out to hurt you?"
Kwest walking over to Jude and putting his arms around her.
"Hey we're not all like that" saying with humor but then in a more serious tone "I'm really sorry about what happened." letting go of her. Suddenly there was a shadow at the door. Jude turned around to see who it was wiping her wet eyes.
Kwest: "Hey man. What happened? Didn't you say you would stop by the studio last night?"
Tommy: "Uh yeah but I got caught up. Listen man can you give us a sec?" Tommy now turning his attention to a crying Jude.
Kwest: "Yeah sure, I was just leaving." As Kwest made his way towards the door he looked back and said "Take care Jude." Jude just gave him a weak smile and sat down on the white couch that was so familiar to her that it just brought back more memories of her and Tommy.
Tommy: "Jude I know you don't want to hear this and I'm really sorry about what happened, but we need to talk. There's a reason why I'm back. Why I left in the first place."
Meanwhile back at Jude's house. Sadie storming out of the house just as all the commotion had stopped. She looked around at Shay, Victoria and the stage that was still set up under Jude's window.
Sadie: "What was all that racket about? Who's flowers are those? And what is this thing doing here?" she kicks the stage and looks curiously at Shay and than at her Mom.
Victoria: "Honey, Shay here was singing a Birthday song to Jude just as Tommy cam-"
Before she could finish Sadie rudely interrupted and took a step towards her mother.
Sadie: "Did you just say Tommy? Mom? Is Tommy back?"
Victoria: "Yes, Tommy is back." Victoria said with a concerned look on her face.
Sadie: "Well where is he? Didn't he ask to see me? And where is Jude?"
Shay: "Asked for you? Girl he doesn't even know you exist. All that guy thinks about is my girlfriend. But I'm going to bring an end to all of this. She is with me now and I'm not giving up on her that easily." Shay turned around and stomped to his car. Sadie looking after him with fire in her eyes.
Victoria: "Jude drove off crying. Tommy left after her. Oh I hope he found her. I am really worried about her." she said as a tear curled up in her eye.
Sadie: "It's always Jude with you. With all of them. What about me?" she turns around and walks away from her mom thinking to herself Why Jude? What does Tommy see in her? I'm not giving up on you Tommy if it's the last thing I do."
Back To Jude and Tommy
Jude just looked at him mesmerized. He hadn't changed one bit. Still as handsome as ever. Still had his slender, muscular body and that perfect smile that send Jude flying every time. This was the guy she wanted more than anything in her life. This was Tommy. Her one and only Tommy.
Tommy now moving closer to Jude capturing her pain, her tears, her fear. He knew he would have to get her to trust him again. He knew it wouldn't be easy but he just couldn't give up. Not when he would have moved the whole world to make her happy. She was his beautiful Jude. HIS Jude.
Tommy: "Jude?"
Tommy: "Please don't cry."
Tommy: "Can you say something?"
Jude wanted to, she tried to mouth words but no sound came from her lips. Finally she composed herself and let out a little cough.
Jude: "What do you want me to say Quincy? That I'm happy your back? That I missed you? That everything is forgiven just because your back and gave me a dozen Roses?"
She said in a loud voice but not yelling, yet.
But I am happy that your back and I DID miss you. Jude what are you doing? Jude thought to herself. Her anger was rising and her tears now slowly coming to a stop. Tommy just looked at her. He had to let her get it all out. He knew she was angry. Tommy slowly walked over to her and sat down on the floor right in front of her. Looking up at her and she down at him. He took her hands into his but Jude moved away. He saw a hesitation in her eyes.
Tommy: "I…."
Jude: "Save it! How did you know where to find me? Doesn't matter. Where have you been all this time?" Jude knew she was saying the words but could not look at him.
Tommy: "I know you. This is where you always come when you want to be alone. Face it sometimes I know you better than you know yourself, better than I know myself." He looked at her. Her nose was red. Her eyes puffy. He knew she didn't want to hear that. She wanted to know where he had been.
"I was in the States." Tommy finally said as he let out a sigh.
He's now looking at her hoping she will face him but no such luck. He puts his right hand under her chin and gently turns her face to his. She was now facing him. Tommy had to do everything in his power to keep from kissing her. He longed to touch her for the last 2 years but it was never as bad as it had been now. After almost 5 months of him not being around her it drove him crazy that she was there now and he couldn't do anything. "I had to leave Jude. I need you to understand."
Jude: "Understand? What? That you walked out on me right when my album came out? When I needed you the most."
Tommy: "It did better than we expected. Double platinum? You did a great jo-"
Jude's anger rising in her voice she interrupted. "You came back to talk to me about the album?" She screamed.
Tommy couldn't hold back anymore "Jude, I missed you. Your face was the first thing I saw every morning when I woke up and the last thing every night before I fell asleep. Being away from you for so long was the hardest thing I ever had to do in my entire life. But I had to leave."
Jude just sat there listening to him. Trying to understand why he did what he did. Trying to forgive him for the pain he caused her and her sister. Tears were coming down her cheeks again and Tommy, with his gentle touch, just wiped them away. She wished he could wipe away the pain just as easily.
"You and Sadie kept on fighting cuz of me. I told her I didn't love her and that I would never be with her but for some reason she didn't let go. Than you and Shay started to get closer and I couldn't look at him touching you. Kissing you when that should have been me." Tommy stopped. He put his arms around Jude and embraced her. She didn't return his gesture but she didn't back out either. Tommy continued while still holding her. "God Jude, had I stayed I would have ripped Shay to pieces. Any guy that even looked at you. Rage kept filling me every time I saw you with him. I was feeling something I had never felt before for anyone. Jealousy."
Finally facing her again going in for a kiss when Jude pushed him away and they heard a ring. It was Jude's cell. She flipped it open and answered.
Jude: "Hello?"
Shay: "Jude where are you? Are you ok?" Shay sounding concerned.
Jude: "I'm fine Shay. I'm sorry I ran out on you like that." Tommy hearing it was Shay she was talking to rolled his eyes. "But I'm ok. I'm with Tommy." Jude said. This brought a smile to Tommy's face. She didn't keep him a secret.
Shay: "Your what? Tommy? Where are you I'm coming right now?"
Jude: "Listen, we really need to sort this out. I'll be fine."
Shay: "I agree so tell me where you are so we can get this over with."
Jude: "No Shay, I meant Tommy and me. Alone" This brought another smile to Tommy's face. "Did she just say "No" to Shay Shay? It's progress. I'll have that guy out of her head in no time." Tommy thought to himself.
Shay: "Fine Jude. It's always been Tommy and you. I've always been the 3rd wheel in this relationship. Call me when you make up your mind." And with this Shay hangs up.
Jude: "You always do this. You always do something to throw my life completely upside down. I can't believe I just did that to Shay. He wrote me a song. He stayed with me when I didn't want to be alone. He helped me get over you." Jude's voice breaking……
Tommy: "Girl, now that I'm back you'll never have to be alone again. I promise you I will be there for you no matter what. Shay wrote you a song? So what? I will write you a whole symphony. Please don't let Shay come between us. I came back for you. So we can finally be together. Don't put up those walls with me. I know you better than that." Tommy suddenly stopped as he just now realized the last words Jude had said. "He helped me get over you"? Is she over me? She can't be. I can see it in her eyes. That fire. I know it's burning for me, or is it?" Tommy thought to himself as his face went pale.
Jude: "Me put up walls? Are you saying I shut YOU out? Don't play that reversed psychology on me! All I've ever been was honest with you. You knew from the start how I felt about you. But you just couldn't let me in, could you? You led me on. You put up your walls so high that I would have never been able to break them. Just because of what your Dad did to your Mom. Cheating on her? Lying? Drinking? Why Tommy? Because you don't want to be like him? You never could." Jude's voice was strong. She saw the effect it had on Tommy.
"You could never be your father. I know you Quincy. I fell for you, remember. But you pushed me away. Why? Because you didn't want to hurt me. Bull. You're a coward. Instead of letting me in and being honest with me from the start you played mind games with me and than walked out on what we could have had. You're not your father but I'm staring to think your worse." Jude's eyes filling with tears now. Tommy just stood looking at her. Sharp pains now going all through his chest. He knew everything she was saying was true. No one had ever know him, seen him, the was Jude saw him. And just like that all his walls broke down and his eyes filled with tears.
Jude couldn't believe what she saw. Little Tommy Q was about to cry. He was breaking down. All she wanted to do was wrap her arms around him and hold him like he did for her so many times but something held her back. She couldn't move. The revelation that just occurred froze her thoughts. Tommy sat down on the couch now and put his hands up to his eyes like she had done what seem like only moments ago.
Jude: "I am sorry, Tommy. I didn't mean to say those things. Why is it that we always seem to hurt each other?" Jude said in such a low voice that she could barely hear it herself as she walked over to where Tommy was sitting and sat next to him. He picked up his head and looked her right in the eyes.
Tommy: "All I've ever tried to do was keep you away from pain. Heartache. But all I seem to be doing is causing you more of it. You're right. I have pushed you away cuz I didn't want to become him. I would hate myself if I ever." he laughs at himself for a second then continues. "I've never felt this way before. I don't know what it is. I've had my share of girls on the road but no one has ever messed me up and completed me at the same time like you do. Jude, I know I haven't been there for you lately but I need you to know something. I love you Jude. And I don't want to go on another day without you."
Jude just looked at him. She finally heard the words she's been longing for, for almost 2 years. Why couldn't she say them back? Minutes later, just as Jude was dazing off the light switched on.
Jude and Tommy both looked up to see non other than Shay standing at the door.
Shay: "Man don't you get it? She doesn't feel the same way for you anymore." Shay raised his voice as he entered the studio.
Tommy: "Yeah? Why don't you let Jude decide that for herself?" They both turned to her.
Shay: "If she did love you she would have told you by now. I stood there waiting for her to answer for almost 3 minutes but not a word came out of her mouth. Don't you get it? She loves me!" Shay walked over to Jude and took her hand as he pulled her towards him like she was his possession. Tommy only now realizing that what Shay had said was true, he gave Jude a look and looked away so she or Shay wouldn't see him break down again.
Jude: "Tommy, I'm sorry. I don't know what to say. I'm so confused." She just looked down then turned to Shay and then back at Tommy.
"Listen Tommy there's a dinner party at Diamond Hall for me on Saturday, I would really like it if you came." When Tommy didn't respond she turned to Shay and said "I want to go home. ALONE."
And with that Jude turned around and walked away from both Shay and Tommy.
As Jude made her way out of the building and towards her car she was overwhelmed with love, confusion, hatred, pictures, and memories. She opened her car door, sat down, turned the engine on, put it in Drive and drove off. As she arrived home Sadie wasn't there but her Mom and EJ were sitting on the couch waiting for her.
Mom: "Oh Jude honey, are you alright?"
EJ: "There you are. Your Mom told me what happened. I'm so sorry Jude. We were worried about you. Don't tell me the party was canceled cuz Q is back."
Jude: "I'm fine. I know you and Georgia went through a lot of trouble to organize it so the party is still on." she said giving EJ a weak smile.
Am I alright? Do I look alright? I would do whatever it took to get out of here. Just take off somewhere without anyone knowing. Forget about everything if only for a day. Is this the way Tommy felt? Is it why he left? There I go about Tommy again. What about Shay Jude? But Tommy looked so hurt. I've never seen him so broken. So vulnerable. Jude thought to herself as she heard a voice.
EJ: "Great so let's get to work. We still have some planning to do. You are still wearing that dress you picked out last week, right?"
Jude: "The red one? Yeah I'm still wearing it. Let's get started and get this over with."
Jude would have done anything not to have to go through all this party stuff. Not to have to go through this Shay and Tommy thing. As EJ and Jude made their way up the stairs to Jude's room her Mom decided to go and get her nails done at the nail parlor.
Shay's POV
What just happened in there? She just totally dissed me. For TOMMY. Well not really. She dissed us both. Well she'll be completely blown away by what I got in store for her at her party. She won't be able to chose Tommy over me. She wouldn't. Couldn't. Could she? Shay thought to himself as he walked into his black Lexus and his driver drove off.
Back To Tommy
Tommy sat there alone on the couch. Jude left. Shay left. He was all by himself. Buried deep down in his thoughts.
Was what Shay was saying true? Could she really be over me? If she is than I guess her feelings for me weren't as deep as I thought. No, she couldn't be. I saw it in her eyes. The pain. The longing. For me. Not Shay. Me. I know it deep down. But why didn't she say anything? Maybe she didn't want to hurt Shay's feelings. As much as I want her to be happy I can't let her be with him. Especially when I know that I could make her a million times happier. Am I being selfish? he thought to himself and than said out loud
"Should I go to that party?"
"Of course you should go." a voice said coming from the hallway. Tommy raised his head in surprise only to see Georgia walk in the studio.
Georgia: "So look who's back. I didn't believe it when EJ first told me. I had to come here and see for myself."
Tommy: "Hey Georgia. You look good."
Georgia: "Tommy Quincy you know your charm doesn't work on me. I know what you're thinking."
Tommy: "Yeah. I'm starting to have doubts."
Georgia: "You're a great producer and you know there's always a place at G Major for you but how do you think Jude will feel? Does she want you back in her life? It broke her heart when you left. She didn't leave her room for almost 2 weeks."
Tommy: "I couldn't stay Georgia. You of all people should know that."
Georgia: "I do Tommy. I saw the way you looked at her from the first day she walked through the door. Listen, if Jude doesn't want you as her producer we'll give you another artist. We're just glad you're back."
As Georgia said this Tommy stood up as if he was leaving.
Georgia: "Where are you going?"
Tommy: "Home. I'm not sure about the party. I don't know if Jude would really want me there."
Georgia: "I know she would. Tommy, what did you always tell Jude? Never give up on your dreams, right? Well it's time you follow your own advice."
Tommy just smiled at her as he realized she was right. He couldn't give up on Jude. He would do anything for her. When she can look him in the eyes and tell him that she doesn't love him and doesn't want him in her life than he would leave her alone. But it hasn't happen yet.
Tommy left the studio, walked to his blue Viper, got in, and drove away. He thought if the only way to Jude's heart is through music than that's exactly what he'll do. He drove away and thought about Jude's perfect birthday present. All he saw was Jude. Her face. Her smile. Her hair blowing in the wind as they had driven on the highway only a few months back. He would have her even if the world crumbled down around them.
Back To Jude
After yesterday's events Jude didn't want to talk to any one. She came home, finished up her party plans with EJ, and kept to herself for the rest of the day. Jamie and Kat came over for a little while after they heard what had happened but whatever they said didn't make her feel any better. Jude couldn't help but be jealous of what they found in each other. They loved each other and nothing stood in they're way. Why couldn't it be that way for her? Ring, Ring, Ring. Jude got out of bed and reached for her cell phone.
Jude: "Hello?"
Georgia: "Hey Jude how are you?"
Jude: "I'm fine. I'll be on my way soon."
Georgia: "Listen Jude, there's a reason why I'm calling. I offered Tommy his old job back but I told him that if you didn't want him to produce your new album than I'd give him someone else. But think about it first Ok? You guys are a team to be reckoned with."
Jude's mind just flew back to yesterday. Everything replayed in her head but she wasn't ready to let go of Tommy.
Jude: "OK Georgia, I'll give it a try."
Georgia: "I knew you'd see it my way. Oh by the way, you don't have to come in today if you're not up for it. But there is something I need to talk to you about."
Jude: "No, I'll be there in half an hour."
And just like that Jude got out of bed, took a quick shower, and left to G Major. As she arrived she saw Tommy's Viper parked. She walked by it and went inside. When she walking into Georgia's office she gave her a hug and a sympathetic smile.
Jude: "So what was it that you needed to talk to me about?"
This can't be good Jude thought to herself
Georgia: "Nick, the producer of "Unfinished Business" called me this morning. He wants you and Shay on they're show. Tomorrow. Isn't that great?"
Wow, that was only the most talked about show ever. If you got invited to be on the show you know that you've made it. Jude thought silently as her face lit up.
Jude: "That's great. Did Shay agree to it?"
Georgia: "Yeah, I talked to Darius this morning."
Jude gave Georgia a hug and walked out of her office. She was glowing. That meant that Shay wasn't mad at her any more, right? She had watched this show since she was little. All her favorite stars were on it. Now she was following they're footsteps.
Back To Tommy
Tommy and Kwest were in the studio coming up with beats.
Kwest: "So man how'd it go last night?"
Tommy: "Man not so good. But we're making progress."
Kwest: "Did you hear about Jude and Shay going on tomorrow at "Unfinished Business?"
Tommy turned to Kwest as he pulled down some knob. "What? Jude and Shay? Together? When did this happen?"
Kwest: "This morning."
Tommy: "How has her music been coming along? Does she have anything to sing for the show?"
Kwest: "I don't know. She's been keeping to herself a lot lately but knowing Jude I'd say she got it covered. You think she'll want you to produce her music again?"
Tommy: "I don't know. I hope so. I can't imagine myself working with anyone else."
Jude: "And I can't see anyone else producing my music so I guess we're stuck with each other Quincy." she said as she walked inside and looked at both of the guys' surprised faces.
Jude laughs "You guys look like you've seen a ghost."
Tommy: "No Jude, we didn't think you'd be in today. So does that mean we're working together?"
Jude: "Yeah I just talked to Georgia. You're my producer Tommy. But we're strictly business. Nothing more."
Tommy didn't know if he was happy or mad. He needed her. Wanted her. This would give him the opportunity to get close to her again. Jude saw that he was happy about them working together and she eased up. "He could have done a 180 on me and been mad about me saying we were only business related." she thought.
Jude: "Well guys I'll see you tomorrow. I have to get prepped for the show."
Tommy: "Do you have a song picked out or……..?"
Jude: "Not yet but I feel inspired. Wish me luck"
And just like that she walked out.
Kwest: "Man if she can pull off a new song by tomorrow she must be a genius."
Tommy: "Or she just learned from the best." he said with a grin on his face.
Kwest: "Man you really got it bad for her."
Tommy's face turns more serious now "That obvious huh?"
Back To Jude
Jude walked into her house, ran up the stairs, picked up her guitar and headed for her room. She was still hurting and she knew that was when she produced her best work.
Knock. Knock.
Jude: "Not now. I'm working."
Sadie: "Jude can I come in?"
Jude: "It's open Sadie."
Sadie walks in not too happy.
Jude: "Hey where have you been I didn't see you since yesterday morning?"
Sadie: "I was out. So I heard Tommy was back."
Jude put her guitar down and looked at her sister.
Jude: "I thought we weren't going to do this again."
Sadie: "We don't have to. You're with Shay. Which means you're over Tommy Q. Right?"
Jude was hesitating wanting to say the truth but not only lied to Sadie but to herself as well "Right Sadie."
Sadie: "So you wouldn't be mad if I went for him."
Jude looked at her but Sadie just smiled and walked out of Jude's room before she could give her an answer. Jude sat there for a second than picked up her guitar again and got to work, thinking "Tommy wouldn't fall for Sadie. He blew her off once. But how long could a man ignore someone like Sadie?"
It's 6:00 pm the next day and Jude is in makeup. Shay is in the room next door getting ready just as she was. There were people everywhere running around. One putting blush on her, the other eye shadow and mascara and others were going over the last minute details with her. Jude couldn't help but be nervous. She didn't talk to Shay since the incident at the Studio the day of Tommy's return. "How will he react when he sees me? Why didn't he call me? Why didn't I call him? What would he say?" she thought to herself. Everyone was out there in the audience. Her Mom. Georgia, EJ, Darius, Kwest, Jamie, Kat, Sadie, even Tommy. "How will Tommy react to the song I wrote?" She thought. As Jude thought about all the people she cared about her Dad came to mind. He wasn't there. She hadn't invited him. Did he know she'd be on? Would he watch it? Maybe…..with Yvette. Jude's eyes became smaller at the thought of him with her. She didn't want to think about that right now so she pushed them both as far from her mind as she could.
She stayed up half of the night last night writing. Putting her feelings on paper. It was easy. Ideas were popping in her head left and right. Would she be able to pull it off? She was a nervous wreck when Nick walked in and said "2 Minutes Jude. We need you on set." Jude got up and left the little room. She followed Nick down the hall who pointed her in the direction she was suppose to go in. "When Jay Introduces you, you will walk out on stage and take a seat. Everything else will come as time goes on." He said and gave her a little push.
Jude stood behind the big, yellow curtain. She could hear the audience scream and clap as Jay walked out on stage.
Jay: "Thank you everyone. Today we have two very special guests on our show." Jude felt someone's hands on her hips and turned around.
Jude: "Shay." She turned around and gave him a hug. He put his arms around her and said
Shay: "Hey Shorty. So you ready?"
And before Jude could answer she heard Jay say
Jay: "And now, without further ado, Ladies and Gentleman, Jude Harrison and Shay. The mega couple that's been ruling the celebrity magazines and tabloids."
The curtains rose as Jude and Shay made they're way on stage, hand in hand. The audience went crazy. Screaming, Clapping. They all rose to they're feet. The girls were screaming "Marry me Shay." while the guys whistled and yelled "Jude be mine" Jude looked around and noticed her family and friends. Sadie was, of course, sitting next to Tommy, who's eyes grew smaller as he heard the guy's responses and saw Shay holding Jude's hand.
Jay: "Welcome, welcome. Wow, look at this. You guys sure got some loyal fans. It's great to have you both here."
Jude: "It's great to finally be here."
Shay: "Yeah, our fans are the best in the world." He turned and waved to the audience as they just screamed even louder.
Jay: "Now please take a seat."
As Jude sat down Shay sat down besides her and took her hand in his again. The audience finally clamed down.
Jay: "Don't worry Shay no one's going to take her from you while the cameras are rolling." he said smiling.
Jude blushed a little and gave Shay a soft look.
Shay: "You never know these days. I rather hold on to her."
Jay: "Now I understand you guys had been going out about 2 years ago and than you, Shay, broke up with Jude and left her for someone else. Is that right?"
Shay: "Yeah but I quickly realized my mistake and pleaded with her to take me back so about 6 months ago she finally did."
Jay: "Yeah we have some footage of that can we please roll the film?" he said as he pointed to this big-screen TV on the left side. The film rolled and Jude was standing there crying pushing Shay off of her as Eden walks in. Jude watched it and was overwhelmed with all the feelings it brought back.
Jay: "Jude, how does watching this make you feel?" he said as he turned his attention to Jude.
Jude surprised "Hm? Well that definitely brought back sour memories. But that was 2 years ago. I'm over it. Shay and I are both different people than we were back than." She responded cooly.
That's my Jude. Always keeping her cool although I could see the pain in her eyes as she watched that. Tommy thought as he closely watched what was going on on-stage.
Jay: "Here's another clip we would like to show you and would like Jude's opinion on it. So let's take a look."
Again everyone's attention turned to the TV as they watched closely. Film of Tommy comforting Jude played. He had his arms around her as she was crying. And the clip ended. Everything was quiet. Tommy watched Jude's expression closely.
Jay: "Now that was Tommy Quincy for those who don't know. Tommy was Jude's producer. How would you describe your relationship with Tommy? Seems like he's always there when you're at your worst."
Jude knew she was being put on the spot but she didn't mind. She was 18. She had nothing to hide any longer.
Jude: "Tommy and I had a really close relationship. He had always been there for me. I wouldn't call that being at my worst but Tommy being there definitely eased things up. As for our relationship? Strictly business. He's my producer. I'm his client. What else is there to say?"
As she said this Tommy's eyes narrowed. Shay's grew bigger in surprise as he shot a threatening mug Tommy's way. Jay noticed this and turned his attention that way.
Jay was putting on his glasses. "Well who do we have here in the audience? Is that Tommy Quincy I see? Tommy please come down and join us."
The audience, especially the girls, turned to see who Jay was looking at. Tommy sat there in surprise then got up. All the girls screamed like there was no tomorrow. Marriage proposals coming from left to right.
"It's nice to see I still got it." He thought to himself as he walked down the stairs and onto the stage where Nick had brought out a third chair for him to sit on Jude's other side.
Shay was consumed with fury. His eyes grew small as Jude just watched Tommy closely sit down next to her and give him a gentle smile.
Jay: "It's nice to have you here Tommy."
Tommy: "Thanks Jay. Nice to be here AGAIN." he responded all cool and clam.
Jay: "For those of you that don't know, Tommy and I go way back when he was in a huge group called BoyzAttack. So Tommy tell us about your relationship with Jude."
Tommy: "Jude. Where should I begin? She is the most amazing, talented, and smart person I have ever met. And I've met my share of people. She's been a huge influence in my life and wouldn't change her for the world."
Jay: "Wow Jude. Looks like Tommy here holds you in high regards."
Shay's grip on Jude's hand was becoming tighter and she had to take his hand off of hers.
Jude gave Tommy a little smile as Jay went on turning to the camera
Jay: "Well folks there you have it. Jude, Tommy, Shay all three here. Up next we will have questions from the audience and than Jude will perform her new hit "Lost" when we come back.
And with that they went to commercial. The audience clapped and shouted Tommy, Jude, Shay. It was crazy. Jay was talking to Shay as Tommy turned to Jude.
Tommy: "Lost? I don't know anything about a song called that."
Jude: "I know. No one heard it except me. I wrote it last night. How does it feel to steel my spotlight?" she asked jokingly as she gave him a smile.
Tommy: "Great. It's nice to know I still have loyal fans out there."
Jude: "I'll say"
3, 2, 1 action.
Jay: "Welcome back to the Jude and Shay special. Before commercial we were joined by our special guest Tommy Quincy. And now we will turn to the audience for questions."
Girl #1: "Jude, how does it feel to have 2 of the hottest guys in the industry fighting for your attention?"
Jude: "Uh I wouldn't say they were fighting but it's great. Both of them have given and taught me so much. I couldn't imagine being without either one."
Girl #2: "Shay, if you could change one thing about Jude, what would it be?"
Shay: "Nothing. Your trying to get me in trouble."
Jay: "Ooooooooh come on. I'm sure there's things Jude would change about you."
Shay: "Ok Ok. Hm, I guess it would be her always forgetting things like dates and stuff."
Jude just gave him a smile and hit him softly in his arm.
Jay: "Next question"
Guy #1: "Tommy, how did you manage working with Jude for such a long time and never developing romantic feelings for her?"
Jude froze. "What is he going to say?" She thought to herself. Tommy turned to look at Jude and then went on
Tommy: "Good question. I mean look at her." He smiled as the audience whistled again "No seriously, we became friends before we became anything more." he continued.
Jay: "Anything More? There you have it folks. Stick around to see Jude's performance right after commercial break. Have a good night and God Bless."
Camera's went to commercial and Shay wanted to strangle Tommy. Jude just blushed as Nick called her to get ready. Grabbing her guitar as everyone turned they're attention to her she sat down on a stool and waited for her cue.
3,2,1 action
Jude began to play her guitar and than mouthed the words………
"I cried and cried tears streaming down my face,
Happy memories of you and me my heart wouldn't erase.
Everything you ever said to me played all over in my head,
I wanted to stop the sadness and the tears that I shed."
"I woke up to see that you had gone away,
didn't bother writing me a note saying you couldn't stay.
I couldn't breath I locked myself up,
My tears kept on coming, they just wouldn't stop."
"My heart was breaking I heard the sound,
I thought it was all over and fell to the ground.
I needed time please hear my plea,
Let me breath so I can find the real me.
I was lost but now I'm found,
Ever since you came back around."
"All of a sudden your back and I don't know what to do,
My worst fear was losing you.
My heart burned with love and want to feel your touch on my skin again,
But I knew things would be like back then.
You stand there smiling not knowing how badly you bruised my heart
Not knowing how madly I fell for you from the start,
And how now seeing you again am falling apart."
"My heart was breaking I heard the sound,
I thought it was all over and fell to the ground.
I need time please hear my plea,
Let me breath so I can find me.
I was lost but now I'm found,
Ever since you came back around."
"I'm lonely but my own way I have to find,
It's dark outside and am walking blind.
It was in front of me why couldn't I see,
The truth about you and me.
Breathing now is hard to do,
What never crossed my mind was the thought of losing you.
My shell is cracking am breaking free,
No more silent, secretive darkness of what used to be you and me."
As she stopped. The audience rose. Jude turned her attention towards the screams and then onto stage. Jamie and Kat looked at each other amazed she could have kept that all bottled up inside. Sadie knew who the song was about but her face remained expressionless. Shay turned red like he wanted to kill someone. And then there was Tommy. He didn't say a word. Got up off the chair and just walked out. The audience was all surprised. Jude expected anything but that. The cameras went off and Jay clapped with the audience.
Tommy now walking towards his car. He stops as he losses his breath. His eyes were so deep and full of emotion. He made a fist and hit the nearest wall. His knuckles were bleeding but he didn't feel or care about the pain. He could still hear the laughter and screams "Jude that was great", "Shay I love you" but all he thought about was Jude's words. They hit so deep, like sharp knifes had gone through him. Had she felt this way when he walked out?