Chapter Four:
Kiss Me
I couldn't sleep.
Not. One. Bleeding. Bit.
Everything from the previous night was running through my mind so fast, it was difficult to even think of sleep.
Seeing AJ. Seeing Nick. Being so close. Hearing him again. Knowing that they're probably going to be here for sometime, scares me. I just...need deep help.
Knock knock.
"What?" I yelled out.
E, are you OK? You just left the club last night without a word. What happened. Nick found you and freaked you out or something. Did he and AJ offer up a threesome? I hear Nalyne snicker.
I sighed, grabbing my pillow, shoving it against me forcefully, hugging it tightly.
"No, I didn't get to talk to him. But it's fine, I'm not going to see him again anyways," I uncomfortably, informed her.
"Pf-ft yea right might not be so sure. They are staying at the Hotel two blocks from here. We might run into them," she laughed.
Fuck," I muttered, burying my face into the pillow, slamming my hand against the mattress.
What?! She shouted.
"Nothing. How do you know where they are staying?" I asked, my question being slightly muffled by my pillow.
Oh well uh, AJ actually, gave me a card to give to you. Said it was really important. It has all the info on it. She informed me.
I lifted my face from my pillow, looking at my door. Quickly as you can say "testosterone", I jumped out of my bed, and ran to my door, swinging it open.
"You didn't tell them...you know...where we lived...did you?" I asked, lowering my head as I looked at her.
She shook her head, handing me the card, "Nope. He sounded really eager for me to give you this," she shrugged, making a 'oh well' face.
I bit the side of my lip, nodding, looking down at the card in my hands. It had AJ's cell, hotel room number, hotel name, and e-mail. I looked up at Nalyne, shoving the card in my pocket.
"Oh by the way, you need a new name tag," she smirked.
I gave her a confused look.
"Nicky boy took it and didn't bring it back," she shook her head, the smirk still placed on her lips.
I sighed.
"So...," she lingered.
I looked up at her and shook my head. "So what?"
"What are you going to do?" she smirked.
"First, get that smirk off your face. Nothing that you have in mind." I slapped the air. "Second, I'll be back later," I told her, as I grabbed my sneakers and walked out of my room, hopping as I put them on.
I heard her laugh.
"Have fun," she sang.
"It's not like that!" I shouted once I was out the door.
I walked to my car.
I stood there as I debated going walking instead.
It's not that far...But what if things go wrong and I need something faster than my legs? I thought.
Just get in the fucking car. The little voice in the back of my head, yelled.
I slid into the drivers side, sticking my key into the ignition, first thing. Switching my car on, I revved up the engine, pulling out of the driveway. I tapped my thumbs on the steering wheel to my Warrant CD playing.
I hadn't noticed my breathing changed, as I took a turn to pull up to the parking Lot to the Hampton Inn. I breathed in deeply, peeking up from my windshield, at the building.
Here goes nothing. I stepped out of my car, locking it, and walking onto the sidewalk. I stared at the floor as I walked around the corner, to the front of the building.
"Nah man, I'm just going to head out and get some Mickey D's or something," I looked up, seeing Nick walking out with Mike, his body guard, and Kevin.
"Gotta slow down on that stuff Nick. It ain't healthy for you," Kevin lectured.
I stood there frozen, as they walked closer and closer to me.
I looked around frantically, finding a bush near the entrance. I jumped, diving in, onto the grass.
"What was that?" I heard Kevin, ask.
"What was what?" Nick responded.
"I thought I saw someone jump into the bush?"
"Your seeing things man, lay off the crack," Nick laughed.
I scoffed and rolled my eyes.
"OK, you heard that right? Did you hear that?" Kevin asked again.
"What man?" Nick grunted, lightly. Slight annoyance dripped out of his mouth.
I covered my mouth quickly.
"I swear man, I think there is someone there," Kevin insisted.
I stuck my head out a little, from the side of the bush, seeing Kevin, Nick, and Mike standing only fifteen feet away from me. I whimpered in fear.
"Whoa," Nick said quickly.
"You heard that right?" Kevin quickly turned to Nick, pointing at him.
"Yea," he responded.
I heard footsteps approaching me. The sound getting louder and louder. I squeezed my eyes shut, breathing in and out deeply. I hugged my legs, putting my chin onto my knees. I heard the leaves at the top of my bush rustling. I held my breathe. My ears perked up, waiting for what was to come next.
"Hey guys wait up, decided to join ya. Leigh wasn't picking up," Brian shouted after them.
"Oh well the more the merrier," I heard Nick say. Shaking from the sound of his voice. Knowing I just needed to stand up to have him in front of me.
"Alright then lets go," Kevin said.
I heard footsteps again and they quickly faded. I peeked my head out, watching them enter a vehicle. I exhaled deeply.
I stood up, walking around the bush and entering the building. I stopped abruptly, looking over at the receptionist. I looked over at the elevators and back at the lady at the back of the desk. I turned around and ran out of the building running back to my car. Pulling out my keys, I presses the trunk button on the remote, popping the door open. I lift the door pulling out my make up bag, jacket, and beanie cap. I slipped the jacket on and pulled my beanie on. Pulling my make up side bag over my shoulder, I closed the trunk and headed back inside the building.
"Hi," I smiled politely.
"Hello, how may I help you," the receptionist asked, returning the gesture.
"I have to get AJ McLean's room number," I informed her, picking up my make up bag and placing it on the counter.
She looked me over. "I can't give you that information," she answered.
"I'm his make up artist," I answered back.
"I'll have to call him," she smiled quickly, picking up the phone.
I sighed, opening my side bag, reaching into one of the secret pocket, pulling out a badge placing it in front of her.
She leaned forward, reading over my badge.
It read
Name: Estrella Vasquez
Position: Make-up artist
Backstreet Boys crew
It was my badge to get myself backstage and identify myself as part of the Backstreet crew. I don't know why I kept it. Honestly, I don't know why. I glanced at the picture. It felt weird looking at it. I mean, it's been four years since I've seen myself like that. I got so used to seeing photos and my reflection with short hair and a different color.
I looked back at the lady as she put the phone down and messed with something on the computer.
"Room 1028," she informed me.
I nodded, grabbing my badge and shoving it into my pocket. "Thanks," I walked over to the elevator, stepping in and pressing the assumed number I thought the room was in. I took a few deep breathes trying to collect my thoughts onto what the hell I was doing. As the elevator doors opened, I stepped out, turning to the side, entering the hallway. I looked at the sign on the wall reading 1010 1020 .
I turned over to the direction of 1020 down. Looking to each side as I walked slowly down the hall, searching for the right room number.
"1023, 1024, 1025, 26, 27...28," I whispered to myself.
I stared at the door for a while before finally knocking lightly on the pale wooded door. I leaned my shoulder against the wall and the small part of the door frame that was peeking out of the door, moving out of sight from the peephole. There was no response.
I knocked again...waited...waited...waited. I sighed and banged on the door with my fist.
I heard a loud growl. I snickered. "I said I didn't wa-," AJ cut off when he saw me stand there.
"Hey there," I smiled.
"Ella," I breathed and smiled. "Hey," he moved to the side, allowing me to enter.
I stepped in. "Almost had a little trouble downstairs at the front desk," I chuckled looking around the room.
"How did you get out of that," he asked, closing the door.
I slipped my fingers into my pocket, pulling my badge out again, and holding it out in front of me.
"You kept it?" he laughed.
"Yea," I shrugged, putting it back in my pocket.
"You still got your bag of mysteries," he chuckled.
"Huh?"
He nodded towards my side bag.
"Oh yea," I laughed a little.
When I was part of the guys crew, I never let them look in my bag. Even though it was just my make-up. I just didn't like anyone touching my make up. Especially my make up. I always provided my own. I never used any given to me. I know. I'm weird like that.
I looked over at AJ, smiling nervously. We stood there awkwardly.
I dropped my shoulders, "Seriously? This is ridiculous," I groaned, marching over to him and hugging him tightly.
He stood there for a minute, not hugging back. I was about to pull away, until I felt his arms wrap around me.
I sighed in relief and he chuckled.
"What?" I asked, curiously, as I pulled away enough to see him.
"It's good to know I'm not the only one that missed someone," he grinned.
"Well of coarse I missed you, you dork," I replied, shoving him lightly.
"Well it's hard to tell with the way you reacted last night. Seemed like you were pretty bent on not having us see you," he crossed his arms over his chest.
I sighed, looking down. "It...it's not that Jay,"
"Then what is it?" he cut me off.
I sighed, again. Really have to stop doing that.
"I just...I," I began.
"What? What is it?" he asked, getting a little annoyed.
"I don't know," I answered quietly.
"Bullshit," he hissed.
I looked up at him, surprised. AJ never, EVER, talked to me like that. I don't think I can remember a time when he was mad at me. Knowing he was mad at me mad ME mad.
"I left because I didn't need Nick anymore. I already had everything I wanted," I raised my brow, crossing my arms in front of my chest.
OK so. Well...we know that's a lie, but I couldn't help it.
He stood there, quiet, his expression still the same.
"OK," he cleared his throat, "What was the real reason?"
I groaned loudly stomping my foot. "Because. I knew that if you were there, that meant HE was there, and I didn't want to see him, because then everything I built for myself would come crashing down in a matter of seconds, so I wanted to do the first thing that came to mind and that was run," I shouted, taking in a deep breathe once I finished.
He stayed silent.
"Please say something," I said, quietly.
"Like I would have told him you were there," he quipped.
"I know, that's not the point. He could have seen me...and HE DID," I yelled at the end, remembering the night before.
"He wasn't going to hurt you," he answered me silently, taking a few steps toward me. "He's learned how to control himself," he defended.
I shrugged, "Can we talk about something else please?" I requested.
He smiled and nodded, moving towards the bed and sitting down. He patted the space next to his, waiting for me to move and sit next to him.
"Don't worry. The bed has no other cooties besides my own," he laughed when I scrunched up my face in slight disgust.
"Gross Alex," I walked over, sitting down next to him, as he continued to crack up. Soon enough, I began laughing along to, which only made him laugh more as I began to snort a little.
"I...I forgot...forgot that you snort when you laugh to hard," he said, catching his breathe.
I shoved and cracked up even more when he fell off onto his ass.
"Meanie," he stuck his tongue out.
The laughing died down when I notice I was laughing by myself. I looked at AJ and saw him smiling at me.
"Have you eaten?" he asked.
I shook my head.
He stood up and walked over to the entertainment center, grabbing the menu.
"Let's get something," he informed me, not looking up as he grabbed his phone.
Just like old times...minus one.
"Nick was so mad that time," AJ cackled.
I nodded, a big grin on my face, as I took a bite out of the strawberry with white chocolate, in my hand.
AJ and I decided to order a complete sweet snack buffet to the room. We sat there for what seemed like hours, laughing, eating, and talking about the stupid shit we did back then.
"Dude it took him so long to remove all the paint," I laughed, almost choking on the piece of fruit. "It was hilarious. His face when we were about to throw the balloons, 'Really guys, water balloons that's the best you can do?' We showed him," I continued to laugh.
I looked out the window noticing that it was already dark.
Knock, knock, knock.
"Who is it?" AJ shouted, taking a sip of his sprite.
Dude, I'm going out. Kev and Brian are staying, you wanna join? Nick shouted from the other side.
AJ quickly looked at me.
"I should get going, it's already dark out anyways. You can go and I'll slip out once I know your gone," I informed him.
"You don't have to," he started.
I sighed. "Yea...yea I do," I nodded.
"Yea just give me a minute!" he exclaimed
.
Alright. Hurry up.
I stood up looking at him.
"Thanks for the food. Even though it really wasn't food," I chuckled.
"Yea don't worry about it. Am I going to be able to see you again?" he asked, standing up, with hope in his eyes.
I shrugged.
"You can't avoid him forever," he whispered.
"I can try," I looked down.
"Well, if you decide not to. His room is 1026, right next to Brian's," he informed me.
I nodded, watching him walk to his bag, grabbing a shirt and putting on. He walked over to the door, looking at me as I hid behind it. Turning the knob, he opened it and stepped out.
"Took ya long enough," Nick retorted.
"You can't rush goodness," AJ smirked.
Once he closed the door. I walked over to the window, waiting to see them walk out to the parking lot. I stood there, think about what AJ had said. He's right. I can't avoid him forever. I mean, look at what happened last night. I was this close to literally running into him again. It's only a matter of time.
I sighed, closing my eyes for a second, before opening them again, and seeing Nick hop towards the vehicle with AJ and Howie behind him. I ran to the door, opening it slowly, peeking my head out to see if anyone was in the hallway. (and by anyone I meant Kevin or Brian or any of the crew members) When I saw no one was there I quickly ran out, dashed through the hall, and around the corner to the elevators. Entering the lobby, I turned to see the lady at the desk. I smiled at her, and she returned the gesture. I walked around the side of the hotel, reaching my car. I slipped in, turned the car on, and pulled out of the parking lot.
Today...today was a good day. I laughed at myself a little, thinking about almost being caught by my boyfriend. No. I shook my head. Not my boyfriend. Ex. I growled. Maybe I should see him. I already know his room number right? Why let good information go to useless waste? No. NO! Bad Estrella, Bad! I let out a small whine, groaning at the end. He looks so good. He's gained a little wait but it looks good. And his hair...OH MY GOD his hair. I just want to run my fingers through it and...NO! Stop it...Jesus...I need to get laid. I shook my head, looking outside my window, realizing I was already and my pad. I sighed, stepping out of the car, and walked to the front door, unlocking it. I stepped in, putting my keys on the ashtray that was placed on the small table. I grabbed the yellow post it note, that was stuck to the mirror on the wall, and read it.
E, dinners in the micro. Went to work, see ya later.
I crumbled up the piece of paper and shoved it in my pocket. I walked to my room, kicking the door shut, and opened my closet door. Reaching up, I grabbed a blue box wrapped in red tape with black sharpie scribbled: Do Not Open on it. I walk over to my bed, crawling on my knees to the middle, and sit down, placing the box in front of me. Sliding my hand under my pillow, next to the one I sleep on, I pull of my pocket knife, snapping the blade out, I slice through the tape, flipping the top of the box open. My eyes scanned through the box. Moving my hand into the box, immediately grabbing the first thing. A photo. The photo had Nick and I laying in the water, with me on top of his back. It was a day we had off, we had decided to go to the beach. We were somewhere in New Mexico. Nick was throwing me around in the water, when I had caught him off guard, and tackled him, jumping on his back, as AJ took the photo. His hair was sticking to his face, water droplets running down the strands of his hair. I smiled at the memory, putting the photo aside, before picking up a long red ribbon with a silver band that had amethysts all around, with Nick & Star engraved inside the ring. I held it in my hand, grabbing another photo. I had taken that one. It was of Me and Nick kissing, standing in front of the Eiffel Tower in the snow, at night, so the lighting in the back was perfect.
"It's so cold," I breathed, cuddling up into my thick, puffy, comfy jacket.
I shivered as a snow flake landed at the back of my neck. I pulled the hair band off my hair, letting my long, curly, brown hair down.
"Why don't you come over here. I can warm you up," Nick smirked, wrapping his arm around me.
I snuggled up closer to him, lying my head on his shoulder. I moved slightly, dipping my face into the crook of his neck, making him jump a little.
"Your skin is freezing, girl," he whispered in my ear.
I giggled, standing on my toes, kissing him on his cheek. I felt his arm tighten around my waist.
"Uh uh, my lips woman," he smiled, turning to look at me.
I bit my bottom lip before pressing my lips against his. I quickly grabbed my Canon camera, snapping a photo of us.
"I have something for you," he muttered against my lips.
My eyes were still closed, as I felt his arm rub up and down my back, warming me up a little.
"You want to know what it is?" he chuckled after a while of not hearing my response.
I opened my eyes to see him staring at me deeply.
"Nick I already told you," I started.
"I know, I know, but I couldn't help it," he smirked.
I sighed. He pulled away, reaching into his jacket pocket pulling out a small ring box.
I gasped looking up at him, then back at the box.
"Nick," I whispered.
He chuckled. "It's not what you think. Well not fully anyway."
He opened the box, revealing a silver band with small amethysts all around. He picked it out of the box, snapping the box shut, shoving it into his pocket, and grabbed my hand.
"I know your birthstone," he chuckled. "I'm not sure its going to fit though," he slipped it onto my middle finger and cracked up laughing when he realized it was a tad too big for my finger.
I smiled, pulling out a long red ribbon from my camera bag, putting it through the ring. I wrapped the ribbon around my neck, doing a bow at the end. I looked down at the ring, holding it in my fingers, noticing the word inside. I looked up and smiled at him, seeing him smile down at me. I placed both my hands on either side of his face and kissed him. I felt him shudder as I moved my hands to his neck and my finger played with the hairs at the back.
"I love you," I whispered, kissing him again.
"I love you too," he smiled. "Now come on. Let's go back to the hotel, so you can warm up," he said, pulling my by my hand, toward the direction of where we were staying.
"And how do you plan on doing that Mr. Carter?" I giggled.
He smirked, "Well your just going to have to wait and find out," he laughed.
I traced my fingers over the photo, placing it to the side. I saw my old phone lying there, which I still pay for. Don't know why. I took in a deep breathe, flipping my phone open, and pressing the red button. My phone played a small melody before showing my wallpaper, for seconds later to be ringing non-stop. After ten minutes of it ringing, I groaned and fell back onto the bed. My phone began to beep, indicating that the memory box was full. I held up my phone. It had 100 text messages on the screen. I pressed open. Reading the first few. They were from AJ, asking if I was OK. If I was alive. The rest were from Nick.
Star, please. Tell me your OK at least. -Nick
Are you not coming back? :(- Nick
Baby please, answer the phone- Nick
DAMMIT STAR PICK UP THE FUCKING PHONE- Nick.
I sighed scrolling through the first month of text messages, deleting them one by one, each time, a new one popped up.
Then...it finally stopped. I went to the top of the text box, seeing the last message. 6/16/06 11:23 pm. I stared at it strangely, before pressing open.
Hey...I found you- Nick
I re-read and re-read the message that was sent to me last night. I looked at the top of my screen, seeing my voice mail image, blink. I scanned through my phone and dialed my voice mail.
Message One received on 2/28/02 at 7:10 am
Star. I haven't slept all night. I'm worried. I know you talked to AJ, but he won't tell me anything. Just...*sigh* please, come home. I love you. I-
Message deleted.
Message Two sent on Monday, 3/ 4/ 02 at 6:55 pm
Baby, please call me *cries * Star I promise I won't do again I sw-
Message deleted.
Message three sent on Sunday, 3/10/02 at 6:00 a.m
STAR. ANSWER THE GOD DAMN PHONE. FUCKING HELL YOU BETTER ANSWER THE-
Message deleted.
Message four sent on Wednesday, 3/20/02 at 10:00 P.M
Music in the backgroundStaaaaaaaaar. Why don't you love me anymore? You don't care for me? Did I not satisfy you enough?
Drunk.
Message ended.
Message five sent on Thursday, 3/21/02 at 1:34 a.m
HEY. You listen to me bitch. Your never going to find someone who can fuck you as good as me. I'm the only one that can make that sweet little pussy of yours feel good. * girl in background= baby come on get off the phone. My kitty cat is waiting.* I'm going baby...damn you feel go-
Message deleted.
-15 minutes later-
Message Nineteen sent on Friday, 6/16/06 at 11:30 p.m
Um, Hey Star. How have you been? Uh, I...I'm not sure if you still have this number...* chuckles nervously* Judging by the fact that your voice mail answered, you do. Stupid me. *Chuckles * Um. Your probably wondering Why I'm calling huh? Or well...maybe...maybe not. Um *clears throat * I well I- girl in background – Hey baby, you talkin' to? Why don't you get off and pay attention to me * Not right now. Can you like, go away please? *Girl in background- What? * Jesus, can't you see I'm busy. *he growled, and there was a huff, and heels in the distance, *
So um, like I was saying I-
End of message.
Message Twenty sent on Friday, 6/16/06 at 11:37 P.M
Hey sorry * chuckles* got cut off. Um so yea. I was just calling to...Shit...Fuck OK I sound like a dork. OK I saw you tonight, and I'm pretty sure it was you. I know it was...I miss you Star. I just want to see you. To talk to you...to touch you. I just want to make sure your really there. I didn't know how you were all this time. Looks like your doing good. *sigh * well, this is my number. You'll probably get it in your missed calls thing, so yea. um...bye...I guess.
End of message.
You have no more messages.
I closed my eyes, moving onto my side.
OK...Now I really don't know what to do.
Just fuck it. I told myself.
My breathing steadied and I began to drift off.
Where is my phone? Where is my phone? Where is my phone?
I flipped my pillows over and over, throwing them off the bed. Checking the box, moving the quilts, and checking up the bed. The ringing continued, going on and on. I couldn't remember where I left it, until I recalled the jacket I had on. I quickly walk over to the foot bench and the foot of the bed, digging into the jacket pocket, snatching my phone, but I was too late and I had a missed call. I growled. I walked out of my room, down the hall and into the kitchen. Walking over to the microwave, I picked up what Nalyne had made yesterday, which was pizza, and stuck it into the microwave, heating it up. Minutes later, I was leaning against the counter chewing on a slice of mushroom pizza, staring at AJ's card.
"Sup loser. Where were you all day yesterday?" Nalyne entered, scratching her messy, bed haired, head.
"What are you my mother?" I munched on my pizza.
"God no. Can you imagine, putting up with you," she laughed.
I stuck my tongue out. "Shut up. I ain't that bad," I looked down at my slice.
"You going to work today?" she walked around me to get a cup.
"Yea I was just gonna eat first then head out," I took another bite.
"Head out? Now? What time is it?" she looked at me and at the stove clock.
"Five in the afternoon," I answered nonchalantly.
"What? I slept that long? Jesus," Nalyne shook her head.
"You got in late, no biggie," I stated, finishing my last piece.
"But still, my sleep cycle is going to be fucked," she groaned.
"Take a sleeping pill," I pointed at the medicine cabinet.
"Won't work," she pouted.
"Get high then," I shrugged. "My stash is under my mattress.
"You bought some more?"
"Yea, just a nick," I informed her, then snorted a little.
"What?" she ask, looking at me strangely.
"Nothing," I shook my head. "Alright, I'm out," I leaned over to her, kissing her cheek, then, headed to the front, grabbing my keys and stepping out.
"Too. Many. People," I growled, dashing behind the bar, too take everyone's order.
"We need reinforcements," Alan, our boss, laughed.
I passed behind him, with a glass full of grapefruit juice, and gave him a quick kick in the ass
"Ay," he pouted.
I stuck my tongue out at him,
"Don't do that unless your planning on using it," he smirked.
I rolled my eyes as I put vodka into the glass handing it to the guy in front of me.
"The guys up there need checking on refills, E. Go make a round," Alan stated.
"Got it," I called out, walking out quickly, from behind the bar, grabbing a tray on my way. I push through the dancing crowd, heading up to the VIP area. I reach the top step, looking around to check who might need refills.
"Fuck...me," I muttered, seeing all five guys, some sitting, some standing, there, just a few feet away from me. As I debate whether to turn around or stay, my body slowly starts to turn to head downstairs.
"Um, Hey Miss, can I get a refill?" I hear behind me.
Great. Shit. Why did I come to work today? Why the FUCK did I come to work today?
I slowly turned back around, plastering my best fake smile, walking over to Brian as quickly as I could, picking up the cup, and started heading back to the stairs, seeing Nick attentive of all my movements, which made me want to move faster.
"Wait," Brian called out.
I stopped, begging the gods, for them to let me go.
"Yes?" I asked, not turning.
"Don't I know you?" he asked, his voice sounding familiar.
"Uuhh, uum," I stuttered.
"Brian, let the girl do her job," I heard a female, say,
Looking over my shoulder to see Kristen, standing next to Kevin. I looked back down, quickly passing my fingers through my hair, brushing it down, in front of my face.
"Yea Bri," I heard AJ say. I sighed. "Oh Ella, can you bring me another beer, Hun? Thanks," I could hear his smile, as he walked over to me, reaching over my shoulder placing the bottle on the tray I was holding, and placing a small kiss on my cheek.
That...fucking...ASSHOLE.
"Ella?" I heard Brian repeat in discovery, yet questioning.
"Shitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshit," I whispered too myself.
I dashed down the stairs, before any of the rest of the band members could say anything.
Reaching the bar, I refilled Brian's drink, and got another beer for AJ. Taking in a deep breathe, I headed back up the stairs.
Reaching the last step again, everyone's, and I mean Everyone's, eyes were on me. I walked over to Brian, placing his drink in front of him, smiling sweetly. Turning around, walking toward AJ and his stupid grin, I glare at him, shoving his beer into his hand.
He laughed.
"Ella?"
I mentally cried, letting out a little whine.
I turned too see Kevin. He stared at me intently. I dipped my head down a little, my eyes still on him, as I pouted. Something I always did when I got in trouble with Kevin. A smile spread across his face. He strode across the room, walking over the table, and pulled me into his arms.
"Oh my god. You have no idea how good it is too see you," He said, hugging me tightly. "I was so worried," he whispered.
My eyes began to sting. My arms moving on their own, wrapping themselves around Kevin.
I sniffled and he pulled me away, looking at me.
"Sorry, there's something in my eye," I looked down, covering my face, hearing Kevin chuckle.
"You haven't changed," I heard Howie laugh over Kevin's shoulder, walking around him and pulling me into a hug.
"WOO, GROUP HUG," AJ shouted, from behind me, throwing his arms around Howie and I.
Soon I was being engulfed by four backstreet boys. And soon...I broke down. They pulled me over to sit down on the black and red couch.
"How have you been?" Brian asked, rubbing my back gently.
I nodded, "I've been...g...good," I chocked out.
"Tell what yesterday was Ella," AJ grinned.
They all stared at him...even me.
"Y..yesterday?" I looked at him confused.
"Remember?" he pushed. Mouthing the words 'graduation'
"Oh," I took a deep breathe, trying to calm my tears, turning to Kevin, "I graduated the day before yesterday," I smiled weakly.
Kevin grinned hugging me tightly, again.
"Yay another group hug," AJ shouted. Everyone laughed, even me.
Nick
It's like she never left. It's as if those four years just disappeared. How can they be so calm? Why am I the only one furious about this situation? It's obvious she's trying to avoid us. She had us thinking she was fucking dead for four fucking years.
She looks so good. She's filled out quite well. She looks taller. Her hair is different. I loved her hair. Her long, silky smooth, brown hair. Why did she have to cut it and in turn dye it that type of red? And damn look at that ass. She definitely did not have an ass when we first met. Now its just...fuck.
I shook my head lightly. Pulling out of my thoughts. Everyone was around her asking her questions hugging her...repeatedly. Giving her all the attention.
She started getting up, still smiling at everyone. A few tears on her face. AJ handed her his beer and she placed it on the tray.
"Hey baby," I heard a girl whisper in my ear.
"Hey," I replied, my mind wondering off as the girl next to me, leaned forward, showing off an awful amount of cleavage. "Want something babe," I smirked, looking back at her face, seeing a small grin.
"I can think of a few things," she bit her lip, placing her hand on my knee.
"Oh yea?" she nodded "Let's go dance first huh darling?" I took a huge gulp from my beer, before standing up and crashing into something, suddenly feeling something extremely wet against me. I looked in front of me, seeing a stunned Star. Her eyes were wide, but eying me over, seeing my now wet shirt. Her mouth hung open, as she held her breathe.
I growl lightly.
"I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry," she repeated
I lifted my hands and brushed my cold, wet shirt, catching sight of Star flinching. Like she was scared...of coarse she was going to be scared.
I stopped my movements and just stared at her. Before I could say anything she was kneeling down on the floor, placing the broken bottle glass on the tray, pulling out a towel she had hanging from her back pocket, to wipe the beer off the floor. When she finished she placed the wet towel on the tray, picked up the tray, and walk off.
"Well that was rude," she girl sneered.
I stayed in silence.
"Geez Nick, could ya be more clumsy?" AJ barked.
"At least you could have apologized," Brian added.
I shook my head at them.
"Don't be such an asshole Nick," Kevin growled.
"Yea man, I mean, you act like you didn't even miss her," Howie commented.
I glared at them.
"Whatever," I hissed, before grabbing the girls hand, dragging her away. "Come on,"
Man...what the fuck am I doing?
Estrella
Wow. Talk about clumsy idiot. I'm just as worse as the first fucking time I met him. Palm to the face. Jesus seriously.
I reached the bar, throwing the wet towel into the sink, and throwing the broken beer glass, into the trash. I rest my hands on the bar counter, dropping my head, and sighing deeply. I look up seeing Nick walk down the stairs.
No, no, no, no. Shit. Oh god, please. Don't bring him over here. Please. I'll do anything. I'll even help AJ perfect his weird-o-ness, but please don't send him here. Fuck.
My eyes stay on him as he moves down to the dance floor. I drop my head lower, my bangs covering my eyes. My eyes shift back up to him. He glances over before turning to dance with big, fake, chesty girl. I sighed in relief. I look up again, seeing them practically having sex on the dance floor. I growled grabbing a bottle of Jack and a few shots, heading back to the VIP section.
This is going to be a long fucking night.
"Today was a good night huh?" Alan patted me on the back.
I smiled quickly, nodding my head.
He laughed his hearty laugh.
"You better get a good nights rest," he pointed.
I chuckled. "Psh Yea I am, don't worry," I nodded.
"Alright, see ya tomorrow...er...later," he laughed and walked away.
I sighed, leaning my head on the counter bar.
"Ellaaaaa," I heard my favorite raspy voice, boy call out.
"Whaaaat," I whined.
"Is your shift almost done girl?" he giggled.
"Oh god," I groaned silently, "Yes, why?"
"I need a favor," he started.
I lifted my head off the counter to look at him, seeing Nick behind him giggling with fake boobies, and AJ with his arm around Ashley.
"What is it?" I groaned.
"Can you," he reached back, grabbing Nick by the collar of his shirt, pulling him up in front of us, causing him to stumble a bit, as he broke into a fit of giggles. "take Nicky boy here, back to the room?" he grinned.
I glared at him, "Alex," I scowled, growling silently.
"Hey," fake boobies, whined.
"Shush," Ashley sneered. "Don't you ever just shut up seriously," she smiled over at me.
I mentally smirked, putting a note to thank her later.
"Awesome, great, thanks. Nicky, your leaving with Ella," he patted him on the shoulder, before walking away.
"That little shit," I squealed.
"Heeeeeey, there beautiful," Nick slurred, falling into another fit of giggles.
I sighed. "Come on monkey bone," I said, jumping over the counter, grabbing his arm, and wrapping it around me.
He gasped, "that's an awesome movie," he laughed. "Talking monkey,"
I snickered, smirking to myself.
"Yay, I made you smile," he giggles, poking my cheek.
I smiled widely, scrunching up my nose, turning, and snapping my teeth at him. He pulled his finger away, shaking it.
"Ah ah. No biting," he tsked, then laughed.
Then, Salt n' Pepa's song "Push it" began to play.
"Woo," Nick cheered, removing his arm from around me, and began jumping and booty popping.
I laughed, walking over to him, wrapping my arms around his waist.
"Aah, push it. Aah push it. Push it real good," he recited, dancing in my arms, as I tried pulling him out the club.
"Nick, stay. Don't move," I pointed. He pulled his lips in his mouth, as his eyes widened, looking from side to side, standing still, "Good boy," I ran over to my car, quickly unlocking it, and climbing in, driving around the corner to the front, seeing Nick beginning to walk away. I pushed my car to park, jumping out, and running up to him, grabbing his arm.
"Over here Blondie," I pulled him, making him turn.
He stumbled a bit as he followed me. I pull open the passenger door. I waited for him to get in, but he just stayed standing there like an idiot.
"Nick..." I said, waiting for him to snap out of it.
"I looooove youuuu," he sang, leaning forward, almost tripping, dropping a sloppy kiss under my eye. I closed my eyes as reflex.
"Get in the car," I shoved him, as he laughed, entering the vehicle. I slammed the door shut, smiling as I walked around. Before opening the door, I removed my smile and stepped in. Putting the car in drive, heading towards the hotel. I look at the buildings, passing, concentrating on the road. I feel something move on my thigh. I quickly look down, seeing Nicks hand 'sneakingly' moving to my inner thigh, his fingers trying to slip under my jean skirt. I slap his hand.
"Hands too yourself butt head," I glance at him.
He giggles, "Yes Beavis," he playfully saluted.
"Oh brother," I muttered, shaking my head.
I pulled into the parking lot, turning to see Nick, passed out, with his head against the window.
I bit my bottom lip, exiting the car, going around, and slowly opening Nicks door, having him slide off. Before he hit the ground I caught him, bringing him up, and waking him up.
"Heeeey I know you. Your my girlfriend," he slurred, tilting his head to the side, "what up with your hair?" he added.
"Nick I need you too help me," I grunted, trying to lift him up. "Can you walk please?" I asked, using my little girl voice, that he loved so much.
He smirked, leaning his head, lazily, on the crook of my neck, dropping soft, sloppy kisses, and lightly licking my skin.
"OK," he whispered, and began walking.
I dragged him through the lobby, earning a few curious stares, and a 'what the fuck' stare from the front desk lady. We reach the elevators, entering and going up. Once reached on the floor, I pull him out, dragging him down the hall. We reached his door and I push him onto the wall, exhaling deeply.
"What?" he asks, after a few minutes of me staring at him.
"The key?" I asked, putting my hand out.
"What key?" his brows furrowed.
"The key to your room Nick," I snapped, getting impatient, shaking my hand a little.
He pats his shirt, then his jeans, digging into his pockets, "I don't know," he answered, looking like a little kid, with his lip sticking out to the side.
I growled loudly, "Stay here. OK, do not move, got it?" I pointed my finger at him, holding him in place by his shoulder.
He nodded, with his little boy face.
"OK," I said, before walking away. I stop when I'm about to turn the corner to look back at Nick, seeing him play with the buttons of his shirt, looking at me, "I mean it Nick...stay," I ordered, walking to the elevator, pressing the down button.
Once it opened, I stepped in, hitting the lobby button. I stepped out, walking towards the front desk.
I smiled at the lady behind the desk as she grinned back.
"Hi," I started.
"Hello," she cut me off.
I smiled, "Um, I'm sure you just saw me with Mr. Carter," I chuckled. "He seems to have lost the key to his room. If I can please have a copy," I smiled, tapping my fingers on the counter.
"Room number?" she asked, simply.
"1026," I informed her.
"Here you go," she handed me the key card.
"Thank you," I said silently, taking the card.
She just nodded. I walked away, heading back up. I reached the floor and got off, turning around the corner and walking down the hall, seeing Nick was gone. I froze in my steps, looking behind me and back in front of me.
"Shit," I growled, "NICK," I shouted, running down the hall, pulling out my phone, dialing AJ's number. I reach Nick's room, sliding the card, waiting for the light to turn green. I hold the phone between my ear and my shoulder, turning the knob, hearing the phone ring, and going to voice-mail.
"AJ god dammit," I growled, ending the call, stepping into the room. I kicked the door, slamming it shut.
"Shhhhh," I hear behind me.
I quickly turn around, seeing Nick sitting at the edge of the bed.
"What the fuck. You said you didn't have a key," I snapped.
"Oops," he giggled.
I smacked my forehead with my palm, shaking my head.
"Hey...psst," I looked up. "Come ere'," he waved his hand.
I stayed still, staring at him.
"Come on," he pushed.
I sighed, walking over to him. He pushed himself to the head of the bed, leaning back against the headboard. He grinned, giving me that stupid, cheesy grin, patting the empty space next to him. I slowly move over to him, keeping my eyes on him. I sit next to him.
"You look doubtful," he pointed out.
I snorted, "Your not in your right mind," I shot back.
"I'm not stupid," he said, matter-of-fact.
I stayed quiet.
"Why did you leave?" he asked, after the moment of silence...coming from my part.
"You know why I left," I answered softly.
"Star," He sighed.
"Weren't you drunk five minutes ago. Laughing your shit off, tripping over yourself?" I thumbed behind me.
"Doesn't make me incapacitated," he shook his head.
I growled.
"I was sick. You know that. I was having problems-" he started.
"Yet you didn't make the effort to change Nick," I cut him off. Silently choking, trying not too cry.
"I was trying," he responded silently, crying.
"Nick, why are you bringing this up," I sighed, slamming my hands at my sides, on the bed.
"I just want to know," he yelled.
"Geez, if I'd of known better, I'd say you weren't drunk before," I muttered.
"Dammit Star," he growled, banging his head on the headboard. "Ow," he held his head.
"Nick," I breathed, getting up and walking over to his bag, opening the side pocket, pulling out some Aspirin. I walked over the entertainment center, getting a paper cup, walking into the restroom, filling the cup with water, walking out, back over to Nick, "You still keep them in the same place," I told him, handing him the bottle of Aspirins and the cup of water.
He looked up at me, taking the bottle, and the cup.
"I should go," I whispered, turning around to walk away.
"Wait," he grabbed my hand.
I looked down at our hands, then at him. He stood up slowly, taking a sip of water, swallowing the already pill in his mouth, setting the cup aside, stepping extremely close to me.
I looked up at his face, avoiding his eyes.
"What do you want?" I whispered, exhaling lightly.
"Kiss me," he responded, whispering back.
I looked into his eyes, trying to read him.
Before I knew it, I stood on my tip toes, pressing my lips against his. His arms automatically wrapped around my waist, pulling me up. I wrap my arms around his neck, lifting my legs up, wrapping my legs around his waist. He turned, moving on the bed, deepening the kiss. His tongue teasingly licking my bottom lip, begging for entrance. I open my mouth allowing his tongue to slip in. I moaned into the kiss, running my fingers through his hair.
Back to fucking square one...shit.