As the coach pulled up at the arena car port in Cleveland, Isabella climbed down the stairs of the coach desperate to get away from the awkward silence. For most of the journey Stephanie and Paul had sat at the other end of the coach talking in hushed tones giving awkward glances in her direction. As she looked around it became apparent they were one of the final few to arrive. Tech crew were bustling back and forth with various parts of staging and camera stands. A hand pressed on her shoulders which caused her to jump as Stephanie placed herself in front of Isabella, blocking her view.

Don't worry Izzy. Your dad will be ok. No matter how old you get all he can see is his little girl. That little girl who thought it would be a good idea to pour ice cream down her bridesmaid dress as a way of protest at our wedding because you were sick of having your photo taken.

Isabella couldn't help but snort with laughter as her stepmother reminisced about the day she officially became her parent.

oh my God. I totally forgot about that. Was I really that much of a brat??

Stephanie grinned as she slowly nodded.

oh yes! The first time I met you , you told me that you would be on to step mom number three within a month.. you then told everyone at our wedding that my dress made me look like the step mom in all the fairy tale stories before they turn in to evil old crowns and that it would only be a matter of time before it happened to me too.

Isabella gasped as she tried to desperately hold in the laughter.

geez! I'm Surprised you don't hate me!

Stephanie wrapped her arm around Isabella and hugged her tightly.

No. Never. You were a feisty little girl who knew what she wanted. You always have and there's nothing wrong with that. I just hope your three little sisters grow up to be just like you because they adore you. They'd have you live with us permanently if they could. they're really going to miss you when you go home at the end of the summer.

Isabella smiled as she leaned her head on Stephanie's shoulder.

I love them all too. I just wish I got to see them grow up more.

Stephanie nodded as she began to make her way towards the arena entrance.

they've got plenty of growing up left so there's still time. Anyway, come on. Let's go have a good show.

As she began to make her way towards the arena, a large black SUV with music blaring pulled up alongside the coach driven by none other than Nick. As he climbed out of the car and grabbed his bag, Isabella watched as he once again allowed himself to take every aspect of her in.

oh come on Nick. Try and not be so flaming obvious! Yes Izzy is all grown up now but they and be discreet. I've known her since she a stroppy teen.

The passenger door slammed shut as Mike grabbed his bag from the back seat as Nick stood laughing at his companions disgust.

hey I've watched her grow up from being eight years old! Now though...wow! That's a whole different kettle of fish

Mike shot him another disapproving look.

well just don't go getting yourself into trouble like last time.

Nick couldn't help but laugh.

Do you mean first time.. last time would imply it was just the once.

The look on Mike's face quickly changed from disapproval to utterly baffled as his gaze shot to Isabella.

REALLY...like...REALLY!

As she stood giggling at the pair she couldn't respond with anything other than a simple shrug of the soldiers before turning towards the entrance on continuing to follow her family who were almost out of her sight.

but I mean come on! Look at that ass!

Isabella paused as she turned around to shoot nick an amused look as she realised they had almost caught up with her. As he stood by her side he placed a hand on her waist as he pulled her in to him and softly kissed her.

oh come on guys! Please!

They all laughed as they walked into the arena together. As they reached the corridor that lead to the dressing rooms Nick dropped his bags once more and lifted Isabella in his arms.

I got to go and get ready and if you don't go find your family your dad will be flipping at you for another reason other than those tattoos.

As he spoke he subtly placed his finger on the cookie monster tattoo that was hiding just above the skirt line of her left buttock. Isabella laughed as she wriggled free.

don't say that. Okay... I'll see you tonight?'

Nick nodded eagerly.

definitely.

With that they parted and went their own ways eager for their rendezvous after the show.