Second Place

by babydoll92

Second place takes on a whole new meaning when Ross Lynch decides Laura Marano is destined to be his, in whatever way he can have her. And it doesn't matter if she's two years older than him... Or Riker's girlfriend.

27. Beach Bash: Part Two

Second Place

Summer Beach Bash

(Part Two)

Disclaimer: check out chapter one. It tells you everything – Thanks!

Pairing: Ross/Laura/Riker

Author's Note: "One Thing" by One Direction

SP*SP*SP

A day after their (rather wild) date at The Lounge found Riker and Laura, as well as the rest of R5, Ryland, and Neo seated with the producers of the Summer Beach Bash. Although Laura was a musician for Columbia Records while R5 were signed with Hollywood Records, the producers felt they should meet together while they set up the last few details. It worked out for everyone involved, especially since it meant Neo would also make sure R5 were getting a fair deal, not just Laura.

Helen Dole, the Emcee from the Fashion Charity Show, was one of the said producers. The woman was dressed professionally, as always, with flawless make-up and proper business poise. Really, it wasn't a surprise to anyone that she had a hand in multiple high-profile events. She was one of those people who naturally had a commanding and authoritative presence, and her warm, calm personality also helped her career.

"So," Helen commented, smiling at the group, "this is how we're hoping the day will go." Passing several pieces of paper to Neo, she gestured at it. "I took the liberty of copying the day's schedule for the performers, though we are still making some last minute adjustments."

Neo gave the extras to the others assembled, his sapphire eyes already glancing through the contents. "There seems to be a lot of people attending."

The woman nodded. "Yes, we're very pleased with the turn out. This year's Summer Beach Bash will last practically all day, at least by our estimation, but guests are paying a slightly higher fee in order to watch the show. We want to make sure they get their money's worth."

Laura looked up from her paper. Curiously, she asked, "Does this mean the performers will also get a chance to just relax and enjoy the show, too?"

"Of course, Miss Marano," Helen answered, grinning. The two had known each other from previous modeling events, but that didn't stop the older woman from referring to Laura as 'Miss Marano' when in a professional setting. It was fine, though, Laura understood. "We also took into consideration your relationship with R5, as well as the other musicians that will be participating. We want everyone – and we mean everyone – to have a good time. So, with that in mind, we made sure to space the performances accordingly so that friends can spend time together and catch up."

The petite brunette smiled, nodding her understanding. "That was very kind of you."

Neo shifted in his seat as he leaned forward. "It says here that Laura will be one of the performers within the first hour of the Beach Bash. Will she be performing any other time?" he inquired.

"I was wondering the same thing concerning R5," Ryland added. "They'll be performing during the third hour of the show. That leaves a lot of time open afterwards for both parties."

Another producer, this one a man in his mid-thirties with dark brown hair and startling green eyes, spoke up. "We were hoping Miss Marano and Miss Lynch would be willing to sing a duet?"

"A duet?" the mentioned girls questioned, blinking in surprise.

"Yes. Many fans who watched the video of you two sing at one of R5's concerts have been requesting the two of you nonstop. We would really appreciate it if you two could sing again for the Summer Beach Bash?"

"When will that performance be?" Neo asked, seeing an opportunity to further Laura's image as well as R5's. Good marketing was good marketing, right?

Helen suggested, "How about right after R5's performance? The band will already be on-stage and I'm sure they'll be able to provide back-up for the girls."

The dirty blonde manager/agent looked at Laura and Rydel with a smile. "Well, what do you two think? In the end, the decision is completely up to you two."

Laura and Rydel exchanged looks, both surprised but pleased with the turn of events. Out of everything that was supposed to be discussed during the meeting, neither had expected to be asked to perform a duet.

Sitting between his sister and girlfriend, Riker smiled encouragingly. "This would be a great chance for the two of you," he pointed out. "Laura can show off more of her singing abilities as a new artist, and Rydel – you hardly get to sing. This will be a lot of fun for you."

"Yeah," Ross added, grinning excitedly. "Come on, you two. You know you wanna sing together."

Rocky nodded. "The fans will definitely want more of you guys. And hey – this will be the perfect motivation to write some songs for you, Rydel."

"Exactly," Ratliff chipped in, smiling widely at the girls. "Remember that one song you guys messed with when you first moved to LA? Never, I think it was called? People loved it!"

Rydel's smile grew bigger the more she thought about that particular video. It was before they met Ratliff, and she, her brothers, and Laura were shooting their first music video, which she happened to be the star of. She loved how the effects came out, too, and the rain scene had been fun to film.

Laura also smiled as she thought about that day. She had played the keyboard in Rydel's place, though Ross could have easily, but everyone decided to place him behind the drum set. Rocky played guitar, of course, and Riker had been on bass. Overall, it had been one of the happiest days of Laura's life.

As those memories continued to play within their minds, the two best friends exchanged another look before grinning at Helen and the other producers.

"Where do we sign up?" they coursed as one, laughing.

SP*SP*SP

Later that afternoon, Laura and Rydel were hanging out in the latter's bedroom. They were each seated on the pink, queen-sized bed as they held a differently shaped pillow in their laps, their eyes scanning over the sheets of music and lyrics laid out before them.

Laura, who held a purple and blue dog, hummed thoughtfully as she flicked through another set of lyrics. "What song should we sing, Delly?" she asked. "I'm not particularly picky, but there are a lot of good choices here."

"Yeah, Ryland really outdid himself this time." Holding a pink and white Hello Kitty pillow, the blonde pursed her lips as she continued looking. "I mean, there's a ton of options for us, but we didn't need this many."

"We should sort them into different piles," the brunette suggested. Her brow furrowed. "There is no way we can find something to perform at the rate we're going, and we need to have a set list ready by the end of the day."

Rydel nodded, and she and Laura began fixing the papers properly to stay organized. "Okay, so one pile for 'yes' obviously. Then, we need another pile for 'no'." Pausing, she looked up at her best friend. "Should we have a 'maybe' pile?"

Laura chuckled. "With as many songs as Ryland has found, yeah, we should make one."

While the two girls worked, Rydel offhandedly said, "You know, we should just sing L. A. Boyz again. That was a fun song. And it totally matched with the guys' Cali Girls."

"… That would make our lives so much easier at the moment."

Knock! Knock! Knock!

The two were interrupted, and Rydel called for their guest to enter. When the door opened, Riker popped his head inside to make sure he wasn't intruding on anything important.

"Hey, was just wondering if you two were done yet? We still gotta figure out what R5 is performing."

Laura pouted at her boyfriend. "No," she answered, "Ryland gave us too many options to choose from."

"You should help us decide," Rydel piped in, smiling eagerly. "You're the leader of our band – Making these sorts of decisions should be a piece of cake for you!"

"Technically, that's what 'band meetings' are for," her older brother dryly intoned. Entering the room completely, he stopped in front of the bed where the three separate piles were. "Why don't you just pick one randomly?"

The two girls gasped, horrified. "How can you say that, Riker?" the petite brunette whispered, like she was embarrassed if they were overheard.

"Yeah," Rydel reprimanded her brother, "Is that how you figure things out? What? Did you decide to date Laura that way too or something?"

Laura dramatically gasped again, staring with wide eyes at the blonde bassist. "Is that true?"

"Wha–? No, of course not!" Riker defended himself, gaping at the two. How did they even get to that conclusion? Of course he didn't decide to date Laura on some random whim! That was just ridiculous. "You know what? Before you two dig my grave any deeper, I'll pick a song for you." With that, he reached down and grabbed a random song from an equally random pile. He thrust it out to them. "There. Sing this."

In response, the two stared at him with exasperated expressions.

"That was the 'no' pile," Rydel bluntly stated, like she was talking to a two-year-old.

"… I give up."

SP*SP*SP

Riker knew something was on Laura's mind. They had finished dinner not too long ago with the rest of the family (and Ratliff, of course), and the couple were now in the living room, getting ready to watch a movie. He knew it couldn't be about the song choice she and Rydel were performing – The girls had decided to sing LA Boyz again, especially since the fans loved it so much – so the blonde was virtually clueless about Laura's current mood.

"Hey, babe, is everything okay?" he asked, concerned.

Said petite brunette popped in the DVD she'd randomly chosen from the wide selection of movies before she turned distracted eyes onto her boyfriend. "Hm? What was that, Riker?"

"Is everything okay? You've been spacing out for kind of a while now."

Laura smiled apologetically. Taking a seat next to him on the couch, she cuddled into his side while he used the DVD remote to start the movie. "Sorry," she said, "It's just… I didn't get a chance to mention my next modeling job."

Riker raised a brow. "What about it? Is the agency giving you problems or something?"

"No, nothing like that." She paused for a second, her slim fingers tracing circles on his T-shirt covered chest. "It's mostly about the timing…"

"Okay…?" he drawled, waiting for more. He had a feeling he wouldn't like what was coming next, however.

"They moved up the photo shoot, so, instead of being up there during the holidays… I'm going to be missing Rydel's birthday."

Riker cringed, finally moving his eyes away from the Disney movie (because, of course, it would be a Disney movie if Laura was in charge of selecting something) to look at his girlfriend. "You can't do it some other time?" he wondered. "I mean, I'm sure she wouldn't hold it against you for not being here, but she's turning twenty. It's not every day someone grows out of their teen years."

"I know," Laura replied. Then, with a bright smile, she continued speaking. "But I came up with a great plan. Instead of leaving Rydel here, I want to take her with me to Italy! What do you think, Riker? Do you think she'll like it?"

The blonde bassist smiled, pecking her on the lips softly. "She'll love it, Laura," he answered. "I don't mind giving up my seat if it's for Rydel's twentieth birthday. She's mentioned before how she would love to travel – and shop, of course."

Laura giggled, knowing he was right. "Thanks. I was hoping you'd be okay about not coming with me," she admitted, slightly sheepish. "We've been talking about going, but then the plans changed… Well, anyway, I'm sure you'll find something to do while we're gone."

Turning his attention back onto the movie, he said, "Yeah, like stare at the wall. Maybe I'll change it up by staring at the ceiling too, or maybe out a window? I've got options, in either case."

Giggling again, she lightly slapped him on the chest. "It's still summer – you could go surfing with the guys."

Riker nodded. "True. I know Ryland wanted to play some football, too, with his football friends. Rocky will probably want to work on more songs, if he's not hanging out with Maia. And Ross will most likely want to check out some planes and jets while he has the chance."

"See? You've got tons of options to choose from. I don't want you just staring at a wall the whole time. Okay?"

"Yes, ma'am," he playfully said, grinning. "Anyway, will it be just you and Rydel? You're not gonna invite the other girls?"

Laura rolled her eyes. "Please, Riker. Why would we invite other girls when we have lots of hot guys to choose from?"

In retaliation, said blonde bassist poked her in the side, but his grin didn't leave his handsome face. He knew she was joking but that didn't mean he couldn't get her back for it. "What, Laura? What was that?" He punctuated every word with a poke, and Laura was giggling uncontrollably. "I don't think I heard you quite right. Could you repeat yourself?"

Still laughing, the petite brunette rolled away from her boyfriend until she was on the opposite end of the couch, trying to catch her breath. When he moved to follow her, she held her hands up in surrender with a wide grin and a sparkle in her doe-like eyes. "No, no! I give, I give! You win, Riker," she exclaimed, cheeks flushed cutely. "I didn't mean it – I swear!"

"Good, that's what I thought," Riker smugly replied, pretending to arrogantly flip his bangs out of his eyes. "Now, answer the question with the truth this time, Miss Marano, or suffer more tickle torture."

Merriment danced within her eyes. "I was thinking of asking Raini and Maia to join us. I already asked Kelly, but she said she's working a summer job."

He nodded in understanding. Kelly had always been responsible like that; always working on some kind of project and just needing to keep busy. Although he didn't know the aspiring artist all that well, Riker did know she made Ratliff happy, and that was the main thing. It was also nice to know that Laura and Rydel liked her, so it was never awkward between the girls, especially since the two of them spent a lot of time with R5's drummer compared to his actual girlfriend.

"So, it'll just be the four of you?"

Laura nodded. "And Neo, of course, but he'll mostly be kept busy with making sure everything is running on schedule. I'll probably only see him during the photo shoot."

"When do you leave?" Riker asked, wanting to know. He didn't like being separated from Laura but he knew he couldn't be selfish. This was her job and she loved it. "And how long are you gonna be gone for?"

Deeming the situation safe once more, the brunette crawled back into her previous place by his side, laying her head against his shoulder as she looked up at him. "I'll be leaving a couple of days after the Summer Beach Bash, and I'll be in Italy for almost two weeks," she answered. "Neo told me it's going to be a pretty big spread."

He sighed. Two weeks without Laura? He would have to come up with a lot of distractions while she was away, but he knew it wouldn't be too bad. His brothers wouldn't leave him alone for very long (whether Laura was present or not), so he was confident the two weeks would fly by quickly. "Well, I'm sure you and the other girls will have a lot of fun," he said, smiling.

Laura beamed happily. "Yeah, I'm counting on it. I want Rydel's birthday to be special. Like you said, it's not every day someone leaves behind their teen years."

SP*SP*SP

The next day, after Laura dropped the news to Rydel about their upcoming trip to Italy for the bubbly blonde's birthday, the petite brunette found herself with Ross in the living room. Her head was in his lap while he watched The Vampire Diaries as she texted Raini and Maia about the trip. Both girls were excited about traveling internationally, and both were quickly packing and checking to make sure everything was set. Thankfully, Raini and Maia could reschedule their work obligations for the two weeks they'd be gone.

"So," Ross asked, never taking his eyes away from the TV screen, "Why was Rydel squealing earlier? I could hear her all the way down here."

Laura moved until she was on her back, cell phone poised right about eye-level to keep texting. "Oh, I just told her about how I wouldn't be here for her birthday because of a modeling job," she answered nonchalantly.

The blonde teen blinked at that. Finally tearing his eyes away, he gave his secret girlfriend an incredulous look. "I thought you two were best friends," he replied. "Why would she be happy about you not being here? She's turning twenty – that's a pretty big deal for some people."

"Well, I'm going to Italy for the photo shoot." She gave him a mischievous glance from behind her phone. "And I'm taking her, Raini, and Maia with me. It's going to be a great birthday present for Rydel, don't you think?" A cheeky smile appeared on her angelic face at the last.

Ross chuckled, shaking his head. "Geez, Laura, you had me worried. I thought you and Rydel had a fight or something."

"What? Never. Rydel and I are practically sisters, Ross."

"I know. That's why I was worried." Absently, he started running his fingers through her silky hair. "So, you're going to Italy? I thought the trip wasn't set yet."

Without any more prompt, Laura started explaining what happened, like she had done with Riker the previous night. Ross listened attentively, completely ignoring his show, and asked questions at the end, which the brunette helpfully answered.

When they finished talking, Ross lifted one of her hands to his mouth, softly kissing the back of it. Her cheeks heated with a blush, and he smiled at how adorable Laura was. "Miss you already," he murmured, not wanting anyone to overhear them.

Laura quietly laughed, her doe-like eyes resembling melted chocolate. "I'll miss you, too," she replied, smiling warmly. "Now, kiss me properly before someone walks in."

He smirked but did as ordered. "I thought you'd never ask."

SP*SP*SP

On the day of the Summer Beach Bash, everyone was buzzing with excitement and adrenaline. None of them could wait for the full event to start, especially Laura, who would be performing live for the first time as herself. Neo was making sure everything was set up just-so, and Ryland was off making sure all of R5's instruments were placed where they needed to be while they waited for their turn to take the stage. Mark and Stormie were wandering around; the latter needing to check the dressing room to make sure the band had everything prepared. This left the members of R5 and Laura to walk around the Beach Bash on their own, checking out the festivities and catching up with old acquaintances.

"Hey, were Calum, Raini, and Maia coming?" Ratliff asked, his attention riveted on a food stand that had delicious-looking food. As part of the event, the celebrities and other performers were sectioned away from the general audience. It was a safety precaution, so no one could wander in and possible injuries (to either party) could be avoided. With this in mind, it wasn't like anyone with a camera could catch him pigging out.

Rocky checked his phone for any new messages. "I know Maia's coming," he answered. Everyone rolled their eyes because of course he would know that his girlfriend was attending the Beach Bash. "I wonder where she is?"

Laura leaned against Riker's shoulder, their hands intertwined. "I'm sure we'll find all of them soon," she said, smiling. "We have a little while before I have to go on."

"Don't you have to start getting ready, though?" Ross asked, slightly concerned. "According to the schedule, you're going up during the last half-hour of your time slot."

She waved a dismissive hand. "It's fine. Knowing Neo, he'll track me down like a bloodhound when I need to start getting ready." Her expression lightening up, she adjusted the black, slightly floppy hat on her head. "I'm gonna try calling Raini to see where she is. I really want to see her, Calum, and Maia before I perform."

Ross dug through his pocket to also retrieve his phone. "Good idea. I'll call Calum since I know Rocky is gonna call Maia."

Said tall brunette grinned in response. "Of course I am."

Meanwhile, Ratliff snuck off to grab some food while Rydel watched, shaking her head in mock-exasperation. Riker, for his part, just smirked in amusement, silently hoping his friend would bring something back for him too.

SP*SP*SP

"Hey, Riker," Darren Criss greeted, grinning at his taller, blonde friend and co-star. "I knew you and your band would be performing today, but I didn't think I'd run into you so soon."

Riker grinned as the two young men shook hands. "What's up, Darren?" he returned. "And yeah, we're going on later. Laura is gonna be performing within the first hour, though."

Darren smirked in a way that suggested he knew something Riker didn't. "Oh, I know," he smugly said, "Who do you think they asked to Emcee this year?"

"No way," the bassist exclaimed, excited for his friend. "That's awesome, man. Congrats!"

"Thanks. So, where is that amazingly beautiful girlfriend of yours? I haven't seen her in a while."

Riker rolled his eyes, knowing the brunette was just teasing him. Darren was too good of a friend to try to steal his girl. "She's around. We met up with some of our other friends, so we're hanging out until the show starts. Why don't you join us?"

"Sure, I'd love to," Darren answered, smiling widely. With that, the two started walking in the direction where Riker had last seen everyone else, both talking about a new dance sequence they would be performing soon for Glee.

When they found everyone seated in the food court-like area, Riker introduced his co-star to Calum and Raini, while Rocky introduced Maia. From there, it was like the group had been friends for years, and laughs were shared and stories were exchanged. It was like a first meeting hadn't been needed; everyone got along and there were no awkward instances between them.

However, everything changed when Helen Dole made an appearance. Everyone stopped to greet the main producer of the Summer Beach Bash, which she warmly (and professionally) returned. Then, she turned her attention onto Darren.

"I'm sorry about this, but it's time, Mister Criss."

Darren pouted but stood. "Okay. I'll be there in a few minutes," he said. When Helen walked away, he faced his friends. "Well, duty calls. I'll see you guys." With a wave and several goodbyes, he also took his leave to Emcee.

"Man, it's too bad he has to Emcee the entire show," Rydel said.

Ross nodded. "Yeah, Darren is always cool to hang out with. It's too bad we can't do it more often."

"I'm sure he feels the same way," Maia piped in, smiling. "So, who is going to perform first, anyway?"

"Either Maroon 5 or One Direction," Laura answered, smiling at the thought of both groups. "Since One Direction is also signed to Columbia Records, I knew they were going to be here today."

Rydel perked up. "That's cool. What song are they performing?"

Riker asked, "Maroon 5 or One Direction?" Not that it mattered – it wasn't like he knew the answer, but he did like riling his sister up, directly or indirectly.

"Either," Rydel replied, grinning, "I like both groups."

He shrugged. "How should I know?"

In response, she glared at her brother, mentally wishing he'd go bald. Or his hair would magically be dyed an obnoxious shade of green. Sort of like that time her brothers played that prank on her so many years ago.

"Wow, if looks could kill…" Raini whistled, more amused than anything.

Rocky carefully studied his only sister's expression. "Nah, that's not her 'die now' look. She's just wishing Riker will go bald," he nonchalantly said, like it was no big deal.

"Riiight," Raini, Maia, and Calum drawled out, their eyes glued on Rydel.

Well, okay then.

SP*SP*SP

Darren walked onto the stage, the crowd going wild, waving and grinning like a natural. "Hey, everyone," he called out into his microphone, chuckling. "I'm Darren Criss and I'll be your host for this year's Summer Beach Bash! Let's get this show started with a bang – Please, help me introduce One Direction performing One Thing!"

The crowd of people gathered by the stage erupted into louder squeals and exclamations of joy when the all-boy group appeared on the stage, waving and grinning at the applause. They all wore outfits that consisted of the beach-theme of the concert but with added individual flair that fit their equally individual personalities. They also had microphones in their hands instead of headsets.

"Are you ready, Los Angeles?" Louis asked into his microphone, grinning at the audience. In response, the crowd loudly screamed, which caused a chuckle to escape Louis's and the other guys' throats. "That's good to hear."

Niall threw his arm around his friend. "Let's do this!"

One Thing:

"I've tried playing it cool
But when I'm looking at you
I can't ever be brave
'Cause you make my heart race

Shot me out of the sky
You're my kryptonite
You keep making me weak
Yeah, frozen and can't breathe

Something's gotta give now
'Cause I'm dying just to make you see
That I need you here with me now
'Cause you've got that one thing"

From the section specially veiled off to the general public, Laura and Rydel hopped around, singing the lyrics along with the boy group and their many fans. Both girls were laughing as they sang, having a good time, which was the point for everyone involved.

It wasn't long before Raini and Maia joined them, all four singing at the top of their lungs as they started dancing within their spots next to each other.

"So get out, get out, get out of my head
And fall into my arms instead
I don't, I don't, don't know what it is
But I need that one thing
And you've got that one thing

Now I'm climbing the walls
But you don't notice at all
That I'm going out of my mind
All day and all night"

On the sidelines, the boys watched the four girls, amused. Ross, in particular, watched as Laura shook her hips to the beat, laughing and grinning widely. He loved it when she was smiling – it was her best feature, her smile.

And the way she moved on the dance floor, but that was beside the point.

Turning to his brothers and friends, the blonde teen shook his head as Rocky stared unblinkingly at Maia, who was currently demonstrating a rather suggestive shimmy to the other girls. Ross shook his head at his older brother. Really, where would Rocky be if Ross hadn't introduced him to the Australian actress?

"Something's gotta give now
'Cause I'm dying just to know your name
And I need you here with me now
'Cause you've got that one thing

So get out, get out, get out of my head
And fall into my arms instead
I don't, I don't, don't know what it is
But I need that one thing

So get out, get out, get out of my mind
And come on, come into my life
I don't, I don't, don't know what it is
But I need that one thing
And you've got that one thing

Woah-oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh"

Riker watched as Laura enjoyed herself with the others, smiling softly when her eyes connected with his. When she sent him a flirty wink and turned back to dancing, he chuckled and continued to observe her moves. It wasn't like in The Lounge (which he was grateful for) but it was no less mesmerizing for him.

And the best part? He didn't feel even the slightest bit jealous. Sure, Harry Styles was up there and no doubt singing his heart out (as well as his friends), but Riker didn't feel threatened in any way. He was confident in his relationship with Laura, and he loved and trusted her. That was the main thing.

Harry:

"You've got that one thing"

Liam:

"Get out, get out, get out of my head
And fall into my arms instead"

All:

"So get out, get out, get out of my head
And fall into my arms instead

I don't, I don't, don't know what it is
But I need that one thing"

Calum smiled as he watched the girls, his blue eyes unknowingly trained onto a certain blonde keyboardist more often than not. His stare, however, was noticed by Ratliff, who smirked in amusement but kept his thoughts to himself.

From his point-of-view, Ratliff could understand the attraction. Heck, he could admit to being attracted to all four girls for various reasons, but Rydel was special. While him and Laura had a wonderful friendship that would last the rest of their lives, it was different with the only female member of R5. And it wasn't just because they were in a band together, but it did play a factor in the scheme of things.

In general, Ratliff and Rydel spent a lot of time together, whether it was with the band or not, or at the Lynch residence or not, they spent a lot of time in the other's presence. This meant that Ratliff knew a lot about Rydel (and vice versa), so of course he would want her to be happy.

And if Calum happened to make her happy, then Ratliff would do everything in his power to make that possible. Besides, the drummer thought the redhead would be good for Rydel. Calum was hilarious and mature, while Rydel was bubbly and sweet.

"So get out, get out, get out of my mind (out of my mind)
And come on, come into my life
I don't, I don't, don't know what it is
But I need that one thing
Yeah, you've got that one thing."

So, yeah, Ratliff was going to set up Rydel and Calum. If anything, the two's friendship will get stronger the more time they spent together. Hopefully, however, it would end up with the blonde getting her first boyfriend.

That's what Ratliff hoped for, anyway.

He just had to make sure the feelings were mutual before he proceeded with his plans.

Yeah, that shouldn't be too difficult.

Right?

Until*Next*Time

Wow, I didn't think I'd set up Rydel and Calum lol But oh well, that's what came out! What do you guys think of this pairing? Leave a comment in the review section please (: it would be really appreciated! But please know that Ratliff and Rydel won't be end game! XP Sad, I know, but I want this story to be as different as possible, so bear with me? :P

Thank you for the continued support and reviews ;) You guys are truly awesome!

~babydoll92

*Guest: The point of the last chapter, while boring and uneventful (I know, because I wrote it, remember?) was to open the doors to this chapter, and – more importantly – to Rydel's story arc (: I hope you keep reading! And please use a name next time, so that I may address you properly (: Thank you!

And yes, you read correctly – Rydel has a story arc!