Glamorous

by Jhene.Artemis

We had both risen to the top of our careers and were now breaking all kinds of records, one of which was being the youngest, hottest A- List celebrities. Yes we were famous now...but not like we were with my sisters and his brothers. We were both solo. And trying to hide our feelings for each other while in the spotlight.

9. Who's the Boss

~Author's Note! (#)~

K. First. Of. All. Few Things.

I'M SO HAPPY YOU ALL LOVED THE ENDING! THAT WAS MY FAVORITE PART TOO!

Um, why are most of y'all followers/reviewers BRAZILIAN?! I have like 2 friends already that are Brazilian and now y'all?! Its like you guys are flocking to me. You hear me, flocking (and I love it). Like what did I do?! Y'all like us Americans I swear unlike them other nations. (Who could blame em) I love ya'll tho.

8 reviews…?! I really wanna cry ya'll...like forreal.

My life's dream is to go to South America ;D

MissSteph22- Simonette is your thing? They're like my second fav couple. They cute. Dave probably wants them together, he doesn't see them as a threat, yknow. Like the other 2. ;D For dating? They may...they may not...Brittany DID say she thought Simon was cute. Maybe Alvin might get on her nerves on day and..I mean what?! Nevermind! XD thank you for waiting patiently for...his presence. The limo scene? Comic effect, dearie. B is a little bipolar and selfish when she wants everything to herself . Kinda like how she wants Jean to have a career...but never one that's better than hers. Yesss….the restaurant? Mm….think of the Cheesecake Factory for that one...my inspiration. Yeah, I couldn't picture Theo like that...for any reason, he's a sweetie….And Ellie? I'm not saying they will make up….I'm not saying they won't...its a bet. I thank you for your endless patience, it means the world!

LoveCaptainSwanChipmunks- You. Finna. Kill me . "Call the police and the fireman"?! I was ctfu ! Everyone was hype about the end thooo. I'm so glad you had a good experience with that chapter! B don't play no games though! Nobody talks to her boo! I almost wanted to cut it short because I had so much to write about and I wanted to end it early, but looks like me continuing was well worth it! I'm so happy you were willing to wait, it means the world, love ya, and keep the endless compliments going! *siigghh* I love them 3333

Guest (The Brazilian one)- Thaaank you, Ana! I'm so glad my cliffhanger got you hooked! Please stay involved, I'm doing my very best to keep things good for you! And as far as your question is concerned, its whatever fits it best for you, use your imagination, that's what I'm doing 33 Your review meant the world!

Jennyicyblue- Yas girrrrrrl! You already know! I'm so glad you took the time to read and you actually got this far! I was afraid chapter 2 and 6 was puttin' people to sleep! I'm so glad you love it, your support means everything! Get it girl!

Alvinthechipmunk- Yes it is 3

REDSPAZZ(#)- Of COURSE I got your review! Thank you sooooo much, I'm so glad you love it! Yes, I adore long stories. That's what inspired me honestly, there was an extremely long story I read on the AATC fanfic and it just took me away. I loved it so much, the author invested a hell of a lot of time and everyone was hooked. I'm so glad you enjoy this, and uh….I have no idea how long this story will actually be. I'm just going with the flow like a waterbender. And you're not annoying me, honest! Your review makes me happy! Please continue I grinned like crazy when I saw it!

PippElulu- THANK YOU GIRRRRL! Don't you just love when the story is so good that you gotta thank the author?! xD I do that! Girl she's a diva. She can't stop, won't stop *Miley Cyrus voice* (ew). She's like Kuzco from 'The Emperor's New Groove'. xD LOVE U TOO KEEP READING!

xxdonnaxx - Girl thank you sooooooooooo much! I'm glad it kept you hooked! I hope you stay devoted, please continue!

Disclaimer: You might recognize some songs, shows, magazines, products, etc. I don't own anything!

BTW, I'm so grateful for you all waiting six months to see Alvin, no really I am! ;DD

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~*Glamorous*~

Chapter 9

Who's the Boss

*^,^*

---

My body felt numb and my lips were trembling heavily without any pauses in between, the engulfing wave of euphoria washed over me like a tidal wave going and going. From my head to my chest, an icy hot presence made its home within my now hyper sensitive spirit plummeting my body temperature out of control in a series of sinuous directions.

Air.

That's all that came out of me. But when I tried to breathe back in, I couldn't. It was like a deep, profound rush of feelings had crashed into myself with me powerless to stop it. Creating a rush of dynamic emotions and feelings of sensation I couldn't even begin to describe. It was exhilarating. Should I let him know I'm happy to see him? Should I play hard to get? What should I even say?

But making me wait like this? I didn't even have the words for what I even wanted to call him. Words too vile for such an area like this. For one, the only thing I had to actually thank him for was the fact that his arrival was the only thing that stopped me from hurling Eleanor across the room and ruining my image.

An echo of his voice traced his way back into my head as my brain consciously repeated what he just said to me in all of his arrogance and passionate desire.

"You miss me?"

I was at a loss of words and at same time...I was turned on beyond compare. Was he really here right now?

There was a fire inside of my chest. A massive explosion of fire and burning desire. Half of me wanted to curse him for keeping me waiting this long, while the rest of me wanted to pull him away from everyone so I could have my way with him in someplace secluded.

I couldn't hear anything but the thunderous beating in my chest and the rush of flowing thoughts. My spine felt all tingly as well as the feeling in the back of my neck. My breathing kept coming out in ragged breaths.

Inhale...

H-He really came.

The piercing sound of the entire room was increasing as everyone who was anyone began chattering away pointing and gawking at him while pulling out their phones trying to take pictures. Gosh...even if it was a faraway photo, they would really do anything for him, even if it was bad picture...I couldn't blame them though.

There was an actual rock star in the building.

Everyone's eyes were lit up. They could not contain their joy. The females were shrieking while the men in the room tried calling out to him all at once. It was indescribable. His presence was intoxicating.

People knew for sure that they weren't allowed anywhere near us though, that would leave them in huge trouble for disrupting our evening and they would immediately be kicked out. The others who held some sort of class wouldn't dream of even being remotely starstruck of another celebrity. No matter how much they wanted to show it.

But he wasn't just any celebrity so the room went into an uproar.

My ear was still tingling where his breath had just left it's imaginary mark as I tried to make note of everything that was going on. I didn't even want to look at him. I bet he was going to see the vivid streak of red imprinted across my face. But…

Exhale...

I tilted my head up to look at him only to see him stroll around to the other side of the table to give Eleanor a hug. She held him tightly with a huge smile on her face, "I'm so glad you could make it!", she squealed in excitement slightly bouncing.

He smirked and squeezed her back before letting his fingers linger on her before pulling away. I tried not to act like that touch didn't have any meaning to it but I couldn't help wanting to feel like snatching Eleanor and destroying whatever audacity she had left in her.

I hope she wasn't going to act like I simply forgot about the fight she just started two seconds ago! She had better be glad he was here to stop me from raising all kind of hell in this place, I don't care if this was her restaurant! Before I knew it, she pulled him back upon seeing my face and whispered something in his ear and then glancing at me before redirecting her attention right back to him.

I froze watching this interaction take place. He raised his eyes at her glancing at me. Confused, I casually raised a brow at both of them. He turned away to look at her again before nodding and they both let out a few chuckles. I was red in the face and my heart rate increased drastically.

Was this some sort of sick joke? What the hell was so funny?!

The daggers in my eyes were burning hot, a fire igniting my soul at their little 'innocent' interaction. Poking fun at me? And for what? With all the connections I had, I could end them. I fixed my burning gaze on Eleanor as she sat back down and she giggled to herself at one of her antics and her smile suddenly faded when she saw my face. I glared at her with the utmost hate and she scowled at me.

She looked me up and down and I shook my head at her slowly, my lips pressed into a frown. She looked offended as she blinked and reeled back and shooting me a look cocking her brow at me, "What?!", she sneered with her lip curled up.

I pursed my lips together and narrowed my eyes at her. She knew what she was doing and I was going to find out what that little sassy snide conversation was about if it was the last thing I did. She waved her hand dismissively at me before turning away, " Whatever, Brittany."

"Okay, bye." I shot back arrogantly and flipped my hair around my shoulder. I shook her away, I didn't have time for this. So I redirected my attention elsewhere, to places more important.

Alvin leaned over and side hugged Theodore who stood up slightly to do the same, "Glad you finally found the time to make it.", Theo chuckled. " Yeah, I knew I penciled it in somewhere", Alvin responded in a husky baritone and I tried not to let the butterflies in my stomach be known upon hearing his seductive tone.

I sighed lovingly then cursed myself mentally for it.

Just thinking about his voice made me feel so good inside. From the way his voice sounded early in the morning, to the way the deep suppressed moan that pitched from the back of his throat would come out when we were kissing made my body ache just thinking about it.

As I snapped back into reality, eyes everywhere were raised as the people who were near our table laughed like he had just told the best joke ever to Theodore. I was still sitting as still as a rock. It was like my body wasn't responding properly.

His whole demeanor had some type of intense control over me. I gulped and tried to pull and piece my thoughts together, my vision was blurry. Suddenly, I felt like some silly preteen that just won some contest to be invited to this place and was seeing him for the first time. I felt like a stranger in my own body.

A body that he was completely in charge of.

This wasn't supposed to be happening, I was supposed to be the one making him feel like this! What is going on? It's like I was stuck, no frozen! Like the next move could possibly be the wrong one.

Plus, everyone was watching.

He then went over and fist bumped Simon while cocking his brow smiling as Simon returned the favor and gave him a hug. I bit my lip and hesitated. This night had only begun and I literally felt the sweat drip down the back of my neck. My body was completely helpless and vulnerable and I didn't know how to get my control back.

I gulped and gnawed on my lip scanning him up and down watching and tracing over his every move.

He was looking extra fine tonight too.

He was dressed all in black in heavy similarity to his brothers. The only difference was the dark red dress shirt he had underneath that matched his red cap. His hair was done to nail the messy 'rocker' look which made the outfit look like a combination of something formal and casual. His dress shirt had a few buttons undone showing some of his chest that clearly defined all of his muscles from his toned body from dedicated workouts.

Clearly he knew as well as I did that when you had an image to keep up with, you needed to be hot enough to keep it. Even if you're not actually doing any work, you could still get paid by simply looking good. His face was the one thing that really said it all.

He was confident and he knew it.

He could make any deal he wanted, spend as much money as he wanted, and get any girl he wanted. He clearly had it all and wasn't afraid to show it off and he wasn't even an adult yet, heck none of us were.

That's what happened when you were the Alpha Male, every guy wanted to be you and every girl wanted to be with you. The thought of it all made my blood boil even though I was in the same boat as him. I was one of the, if not thee most, popular and talented artists and actresses out there that I practically had a category of my own that nobody had been able to keep up with. Nobody but…

….

My chest was tight, he was getting closer to me. I bit my lip, I had the sudden urge to really reach out and touch him. I cursed silently. Maybe if all these people weren't here to witness my hidden desires... Oh what was I saying?! Was that the real only reason that I came? Before I could shake the thought away, he caught my eye again.

He made his way over and wrapped his arms around Jeanette who returned the hug generously pulling him to her in a warm embrace with a light pink tint surrounding her cheeks. I sucked in my breath as he reeled back and slowly, but steadily made eye contact with me. His royal blue orbs pierced on and locked into mines as he stood up straight and walked over to me with a taunting look that said it all.

My jaw felt numb and my entire body cringed as I felt the whole room stare. Apart of me wanted to run far, far away, but I knew it was too late for all of that. He casually stepped towards me and I blinked slowly so as to not let my panic get to me, but kept a straight face so as he wouldn't think I was losing myself over him.

Even though I was.

I held in a breath and tried to look at him unintimidated, but his unrelenting stare made things clear. He was on a mission and wouldn't stop until he got what he wanted.

He drifted towards me and leaned forward with the whole room peering at us talking louder and louder letting the restaurant turn into what felt like a concert hall.

The thing was, it didn't even seem like it was bothering him, like it only made him more confident. The rate at which my chest was thumping could easily be calculated as being louder than this entire room altogether.

There was a hesitation in me momentarily as he took me in looking me up and down quietly. In what seemed like slow motion, he undressed me with his eyes drifting the cerulean ocean colored orbs from my face gradually down my legs which were crossed one over another to my jet black heels where he paused for half a second and he half smirked and nodded to himself slowly.

"Mm, you got all prettied' up for me tonight?", he licked his lips slowly and turned to face me. He perked up his head in an upward nod beckoning me to answer.

As much as I wanted to soak up the feeling in my chest from his taunting behavior, I couldn't let him off that easy. Even if he was the only one who knew how to make me feel this way. I'm not one of his fans.

"Um, no. I'm not here to see you so take a seat.", I confirmed and casually fluffed out my soft and silky auburn curls before tossing them over my shoulder and letting them fall back down and hit my waist. " I get dolled up for myself, thanks.", I gave him my fakest (and cutest) smile showing him that I was clearly unintimidated by him.

He could get in this game if he wanted to, but I was the one holding all the cards.

I kept my gaze on him but he didn't budge. He watched me intently with the same glint in his eyes unmoving. I knew what he was doing. He was trying to get me to crack under his pressure, but I wasn't going to, I could beat him.

Then after was seemed like hours, but was only a few excruciating long seconds, he raised his eyebrows slowly. Then his face calmly and steadily curved into a smile that made me want to make a break for it and run.

His presence was captivating, pulling me in deeper until I was completely hooked. Seconds passed and crept up making time go by ever so slowly, I didn't even want to look at the others in the room and at the table who more than likely had their stare fixed on us. I was shaking inwardly, and my heart was quivering…

Because he still held the same unintimidated smile on his face.

But I couldn't break my stare. It took every ounce of strength for me not to break my concentration. And then, without notice, he calmly drifted over past and behind me running his hand over the side of my neck and through my curls lazily.

A series of chills shot up and down my spine before he took his seat right next to me while the noise started to die down and everybody sat back down but the chatter still continued nonetheless.

I sighed heavily now that that was over and prayed for the feeling to come back in my body from our little innocent heart to heart. Closing my eyes, I hoped for a miracle that I would be able to make it home without making a total fool of myself.

My heart fluttered and increased thoroughly through every second I convinced myself over and over again that he was sitting right next to me. I haven't been this close to him since last night.

His cologne was leaving an intoxicating aura that circled around me and I couldn't help but breath it in deeply and sigh to myself letting my guard drop. I allowed the scent to linger on me for a while longer. Just one more second. Then I could forget this ever happened.

Just this one feature about him made me want to fall in love with him over and over again.

" I know you hear me, Barbie."

I stopped and froze. His deep, sultry voice knocked me out of my trace and destroyed all aspects of the moment I was so enwrapped with. To my horror, he had his arm propped up on the back of his chair facing me.

I swallowed and turned to him with the clear nervousness plastered across my face and body. His striking features were captivating and I almost lost my breath and couldn't help but trace my eyes down his slender neck to part of his exposed chest where an expensive chain hung.

There was no stopping myself, the jet black colors mixed in with red made him look so intimidating and mysterious. And bad. I scanned lower and further down taking in all that he had to offer and running my eyes slowly back up eyeing his exposed chest feeling a pool of emotions inside me as my mouth began to water.

"Mhmm. You like what you see?", I heard him say and my chest hardened and throbbed. A flood of embarrassment hit me like a truck. "W-wha huh?, I bit my lip and cursed to myself. He chuckled and started again, " You heard me."

I fumbled and stumbled all over trying to find the words to say. But no matter which way I tried to arrange my words, the pattern still would come out as some pathetic excuse. Upon seeing his taunting face, I pushed all of my brief intoxicated infatuation of him deep down and snarled at him, " Y'know, I don't know who you thought you were, but you are not God's gift to all women! I wasn't even-

"You weren't even what?", he returned at me just as strong and I flinched back but he leaned forward inches away from my face, "Checking me out? You and I both that's a lie."

"Bite me.", I snapped back confidently.

" Y'know, If you want babe, I could just kiss you right now in front of everyone.", he taunted me with his eyes staring directly at me unmoving leaning back into his chair. My eyes watched him in shock, fear plastered clear across my face.

He wouldn't.

"Then everyone will know what we've been up to all this time." My mouth dropped. I tried to speak but closed my mouth entirely before opening it again with the same motions. I probably looked like some sort of fish, " Wh-Wha…you can't-

"So I suggest you quit trying to play hard to get, toots. I could also end up telling everyone who you really came here for.", he taunted at me with his unrelenting stare almost begging me to say something to contradict what he just said.

I pressed my lips together so sharply, he had to be playing! He could not stoop to that level, kissing me in front of everybody here?! My image would be ruined! Well, not necessarily ruined, but then I'll be known as another one of the famous who had turned into one of his admirers!

The focus won't be on me anymore because I'd just be his girl and it'll be all how I'm helping his career. Everything would just be about him! They'll want us to do songs, movies, everything together! Then, the next thing would be the public will try to start drama and the pressure would probably get to us and break us up. The jealous females, the questions, the hate, I just I can't! He can't!

I probably looked dumbfounded because I was. But I couldn't think of anything to say, so I was just silent. I closed my mouth fuming altogether at the audacity he had saying that to me! Was he serious? He wasn't the only reason I came...was he?

Now that I started to think about it...I did tell Jeanette I didn't want to go when we had breakfast...that is until Alvin called me this morning…

But...wait no! He must be out of his mind to think I would come here only for the sake of seeing him here! It's not like we'd be having any fun together anyway. It's just like Destiny said, my image was on the line here and if I didn't show up, the results could be terrifying and hey I was hungry too! But did he need to know all that? No...he wouldn't even believe that.

After seconds of no response from me he laughed, "Aww see, good girl. You better not forget about what I said either. I could make everyone in the room have the scoop of a lifetime tonight, or you could just play along... nicely....", he leaned forward getting close to my face, "...like you did last night.", he finished and my eyes rose up in shock.

I was flushed, there were shades of pink all around my face. My insides felt tingly all around at the mentioning of last night, but I felt irritated by the fact that he literally had me powerless in the palm of his hand.

I groaned seeing him turn around casually to Dave before nodding, " What's up, pops?", with a cheeky grin before playfully punching him like he didn't just give me the threat of a lifetime. Dave casually smiled painfully and greeted Alvin while rubbing his now sore shoulder.

Everybody at the table seemed ready to be back into their own conversation except for me. I turned away from him and wanted to throw my head in my hands.

Ughhh...how could I let everything spiral out of control like this?

If this was what the 'good life' was all about, then I was beginning to wonder why I had really signed up for it.

---

Alvin was immediately going on and on about his day discussing his upcoming movie along with the movie script for the sequel that he had received today while everyone eagerly listened to his flamboyant storytelling.

The feeling in my chest and on the back of my neck at the area where his hands casually touched and ran through my auburn locks were still burning as if his hand was still there. Taunting me. Playing with me.

The feeling in my body had begun to cool down, but my heart was still beating steadily at the excitement mixed in with the shock and fear on his words. Not to mention the control he demonstrated without even really touching me.

And my mind...ohmygosh...it was running around in random streaks...how was I going to handle tonight if this was the way he was going to act?!

Only...was it really the way he was acting? Or did he really have the power to..?

No. No. Unh Unh, there was no way. No boy on this Earth was capable of leaving me weak in the knees, that had to be true! Just who does he think he is?! Every teenage girl and woman out there may be ridiculously in love with him but I wasn't.

I wasn't.

Then why did I have a hard time believing myself? I tell myself that all the time, but I never believe me.

I pouted and scooted up my chair rested my head in one hand and tried to hear the last of the conversation trying to feel like I was not out of place, but the conversation seemed to be going in all directions as time went on.

All the emotions just came colliding into me, I needed to get my mind off it. I begin to look around and take in the scenery trying to ignore everything that just happened. The golds and tans made the room so cozy and relaxing, yet elegant and poised.

Tilting my head back slightly, I tried to relax and let my head feel immediate release from the jazz music playing on stage. The heavenly sound from the band soothed my pounding headache as I tried to drown out the noise from Alvin's story.

Suddenly, I felt a slight kick on my heel from under table knocking me out of my trance and I heard someone clear their throat. I blinked rapidly and twisted to my right to see Jeanette.

"You alright?", she asked sweetly. She had her hands folded together to rest her head on top of her chin. I sighed, "Yeah, I am. Just a little tired.", I lied. She giggled, "Well I am too, but there probably wasn't any food at the house anyway." I laughed along with her because there probably wasn't really. We were gonna have to get Nina to go grocery shopping again soon.

"...yeah me and Eleanor almost thought we weren't going to have the contracts and legal rights until next year because of our ages.", Theo stated while everyone nodded. Jeanette giggled, " Well thank goodness you got it out of the way now, it was hard to even gain the legal rights along the property rights to begin with."

I sensed a presence of eyes lingering on me and purposely tried to ignore it. I tried and prayed that it was my imagination, but I could practically feel Alvin in my peripheral vision, I didn't know if he was looking at me or not and did not want to find out.

Out of the blue, I heard a light chuckle that I knew belonged to him. I cringed and took a deep breath trying to push the fear away that creeped up into me. " Keep ignoring me, B. Remember what I told you."

I wanted to laugh out loud. Seriously, he had to be joking. This had to be a joke. Come on, really?! I had a complete look of disbelief and whipped my head around to stare daggers at him, "Really Alvin?!", I lowered my voice and whispered sharply trying not to let anyone notice us bickering, " You didn't even say anything!"

He didn't respond, instead he ran his hand unapologetically through his messy hair and made a 'come hither' motion with his tongue winking at me. My mouth dropped as a pink tint spread across my face and my hands shook.

I struggled to get my thoughts together. Frantically, I started to say something and then I felt like I was suddenly naked in the middle of this whole room.

"Y-you...you..-", I began getting ready to give him a mouthful. He raised his brows up again giving me that same unrelenting unintimidated smile. I stopped short.

You know what, I wasn't going to do it. I turned forward and acted as though he didn't exist and tried to ignore his previous threat, feeling the heat rise up in my cheeks.

I hope he wasn't serious.

" I'm actually surprised you guys actually got this property to build your restaurant on.", Dave mentioned at the height of the conversation, " It was good because that way the building could be done on time."

"Yeah I heard that they were supposed to be building some mini mall here instead, but apparently Theo and his sources outbid everyone.", Simon recited giving Theodore and impressed nod.

Theodore smiled at the compliment, "I'm glad, we wanted to get it done as soon as we could. We were almost afraid it wasn't going to happen by the trouble some of the business people were giving us."

Eleanor cleared her voice and pushed her blonde hair behind her shoulder straightening herself up, " Yeah, apparently my age was the issue that they weren't too fond of. Me and Theo's.

Despite me being on my own so young apparently, the emancipation didn't seem like enough to them because they, personally, still saw us as just kids."

The whole table hummed in a split between sadness and mild animosity toward the business people we had never met. That was harsh. Because I knew that some people had tried to treat me like that too, but I always found a way to turn their decisions around real quick.

"Heh.", Alvin spoke up straightening up a bit. I felt some of the animosity I had get transferred to him for his 'innocent' flirting, " That's when you gotta show em' who's boss, E." He stole a glance at me and back to Eleanor just as quick, " That's the only way some people ever learn."

" You can say that again.", Eleanor smirked and laughed along with everyone at the table. " Especially if they don't understand that it wasn't my fault that I became emancipated in the first place. Or that I had to move out and be on my own like this." I stopped short and paused to see if I had heard that correctly.

The whole table appeared to be deep within laughter while I took a brief moment of realization. Call me whatever you want, but it seemed like she was blaming me for everything that had occurred after the death of Miss Miller.

And frankly, I don't remember telling her she couldn't stay with us, that was her move. Unless she lied to those people.

There was no trace of a smile on my face because I wasn't having this. " I actually don't see what's so funny." All of the laughter had begun to die down as everyone exchanged confused and worried glances. She slowly but steadily diminished her smile and rightfully so. I didn't know what tricks she had up her sleeve, but I had to deal with her now, I'll deal with Alvin later.

"What are you talking about?", she stammered blinking back in attentiveness, " Don't be such a sour puss, Britt we were just-

"I know.", I answered as she fell silent, " Trying to embarrass me at the table. Listen, I don't care what you claim your intentions are, but let's not deal with them now. I'm trying to have a good time too, okay?"

" I wasn't eve-

" Just stop.", I threw my hands up in defense, " Let's just not, okay? Not tonight." She rolled her eyes and everyone tried to look around or act like they weren't listening. I didn't even have time to see Alvin's expression or anyone else for that matter. She was being childish and she was a fool if she thought I was the one.

The conversation picked up slowly, and then gradually increased through time and Eleanor hadn't said anything else passively about me. Instead, the conversation seemed more relaxed as the tension was finally cut much to my satisfaction.

I breathed a sigh of relief and welcomed the release within my body.

Everybody thinks I'm a diva but I swear nine times out of ten they're the ones that bring it out. And this, whatever she wanted to call it it wasn't over, I was going to deal with her when I get good and ready because this all needed to stop. Today.

Jeanette suddenly reached out over Simon tapping her fingers on the table close to where Eleanor was. Eleanor looked over and squinted her eyes confused as Jeanette whispered something to her. Seconds passed and I saw Eleanor begin to look over at me so I quickly found something else to look at trying to basically play dumb like I was clueless.

I caught sight at another table laughing and looking like they were having a good time and tried to act like I was interested in them. Out of my peripheral vision, I could make sight of them still, so I leaned forward trying to listen.

"...to stop it Eleanor….No I'm serious…", I heard Jeanette say in a noticeable, but discreet voice. I snapped my head forward, but then thought back to myself and ran my hand through my hair turning away again. Were they talking about me?!

" Jeanette, I'm fine! I'm not doing anything wrong it's just...ugh…", Eleanor's voice trailed off, " I'm trying to but she...she…", she let out a dramatic sigh, "You remember what I told you, don't you!". Oh wow, now I was listening intently.

I closed my eyes and tried to drown out the noise and place my full attention on their conversation since it sounded like it was clearly about me. Jeanette had leaned back from what I could tell, but still kept her focus on Eleanor, "Ellie, she's not even doing anything to you! Can you please not do this, tonight?! It's not worth it!"

I had to smile to myself, Jeanette wasn't lying when she said she had my back. I really had nothing to worry about with her. I stretched out loud raising my arms up feeling a few joints snap back into place and sighed out loud bringing my attention back to the table.

Eleanor was leaning into Theodore with a noticeable pout on her face while Jeanette was muttering a few words to Simon who seemed a little thrown off by the whole encounter. He glanced up at me and on instinct I shrugged my shoulders at him as if I didn't know what was going on and he returned the gesture smiling.

I smiled and reached over taking Jeanette's hand squeezing it lightly mouthing the words 'Thank You' and she looked puzzled before snapping into realization and nodding and giggling returning the gesture.

She leaned into me and lowered her voice, " I just couldn't bear for her to act like that especially on a night like this, you were right to call her out on it." Now that's what I liked, everything going along just the way I wanted it.

Even if the night wasn't totally about me, the odds still needed to run in my favor. " Um, duh! You see how nice I'm trying to be. I'm just sorry you have to play referee all the time,".

She shrugged and laughed lightly her voice having the vibrant, colorful harmony sounding similar to soft china bells and I basked in its aura. Jeanette was a good person, and for that I was thankful.

No matter what, everyone had better be glad about the good night's sleep I sacrificed to be here. Regardless about how Eleanor felt, I didn't have to be here and didn't come here to deal with her snobby attitude. Even then, I shook the thoughts away. I had bigger things to worry about.

Minutes passed and before I knew it, a fancy dressed waitress dressed all in black made her way to what looked like our table. I began to see a bunch of people dressed all in black start making their way towards each individual table.

"Ugh yes finally, I need a drink.", I said to nobody in particular. "Nonalcoholic I hope for all of you.", Dave remarked coolly before receiving an are-you-serious look from all of us at the table.

"We wouldn't plan on it, Dave.", Theo laughed and wrapped his arm around Eleanor who smiled at the newfound comfort and still wasn't giving me the time of day. Not after our 'little' dispute earlier. Psh, pathetic.

She's lucky that I didn't come across this table and attack her like something straight out of Animal Planet.

"Yeah.", Simon agreed fixing his collar, " Plus, if we wanted some we'd make sure to only drink it in the house." We all burst out laughing at his comment while Dave attempted to glare at Simon but was still managing to crack a tiny smile at him shortly after.

But before Dave could speak up, Alvin did, " He's only kidding, Dave. Relax.", Dave gave him a look before shaking his head while Alvin rolled his eyes and blew out a breath of annoyance.

Simon chuckled upon witnessing Dave's face as Dave began to defend himself, "Well, you all better be, I don't need to be dealing with a bunch of drunk teenagers, not with my age.", Dave retorted still serious. We all rolled our eyes playfully, Dave was always going to be Dave.

Alvin leaned into me and lowered his voice discreetly, "I think you'd be the only one that really needed a drink, sitting here all hot and bothered because of me."

I scowled and tried not to look at him, yet I could still see him smiling upon seeing the stupid blush I had on my face from his comment. Gosh, it's like he'll never give me a break!

I leaned back into my chair as the waitress got closer but then stopped shortly to make a few comments to a fellow coworker. I saw the whole table resume back to their conversations mostly being led by Eleanor who was discussing how the grand opening is actually next week, but they wanted today to be the tester.

I turned slowly and whispered fiercely, " I'm not hot and bothered by anyone, Alvin. Maybe you're talking too much about yourself again."

He chuckled before eyeing me intensely, " Not today, babe."

The waitress soon made her way over to our table. She looked about 18 and had dark brown eyes and a small nose piercing. Her dark brown hair was pulled up into a simple bun bouncing up and down as she got closer to us.

She looked plain. No matter how much she tried to pull herself together for tonight. Well whatever, her loss, not mine.

Upon hearing her footsteps, Eleanor and Theodore turned and grinned at her as she did the same, stopping in front of our table. With a flip if her hair, Eleanor eagerly introduced her as ''Kelly".

She then proceed to go on about how they met and how Theo offered her a job here while she went to college so she can take care if her one year old son and blah blah blah.

"Ugh, whatever who cares?!", I groaned inwardly to myself. Who cares?! Can we eat already? Something?! I needed a drink, I wasn't here to hear her backstory. I leaned back in my chair and pouted glancing to see if everyone was feeling the same way, instead I heard a light chuckle next to me.

I furrowed my brows together and looked to see Alvin leaned back in his chair with one eyebrow cocked while biting his lip slyly.

An unwelcome feeling began to arise in my chest when I realized where he was looking...it couldn't be. Was he...checking her out? I scowled at him, but he pretended not to notice. My mouth dropped as I turned to look at this floozy brunette who really didn't have anything appealing about her. A nose piercing, was she serious?

That was gonna leave like some kinda hole in her face and that's supposed to be a fashion statement?! Clearly she wasn't named 'Beauty of the Century' now was she?! What could he possibly see in her, I mean she has a kid! There can't be anything more unattractive than that.

"...yeah, my son has been has real blessing to me, he's really the reason I breathe.", she went on making me cringe rolling my eyes. Like really? ' The reason you breathed' ? I did not come here to hear your life story!

I glanced at Alvin again who was now licking his lips slowly nodding as she spoke. I frowned and felt a deep sense of dread upon realizing that she was making eye contact him the entire time rocking from side to side.

This could not be happening.

Was he seriously….he could not be interested in other girls. Like, he wasn't allowed to be! What about all the things we did? What about all the chemistry we had, he just couldn't...could he?

I cleared my voice, " Al-vin?!", I whispered harshly as the waitress greeted Jeanette and Simon while answering a question Dave was asking about her schooling. " Yes, baby?", he answered slowly glancing at me for a second making my heart nearly explode with desire before redirecting his attention back to the baby mama.

My mouth went dry while I tried to calm myself down, he knew not to do that. He knew not to call me by those kinds of names because he knew what it'll do to me. He's trying to get me wrapped around his finger so I won't be be distracted by his flirting. If he knew this made me upset then why does he do it? Time after time?! I know we weren't together-

But that's just it, wasn't it...we're not together so I didn't have any honest right to be mad at him. But if I can't get mad, then he shouldn't be pursuing this friends with benefit situation. Still, I can't help how I feel about him. When he starts looking at other girls this way it just makes me want to...just…

I whipped my head around to glare at him again. Anger was boiling within me and I felt like I was gonna explode any second. The baby mama...waitress…"Kelly" was completely starstruck over him and smiling flirtatiously at Alvin earning a sexy grin in approval.

They were for real right now? Flirting at the table? Where did they get off-

"Sooo...Kelly was it?", Alvin started. My eyes were beginning to see red, now he was talking to the slut?! Clearly that's what she was getting pregnant all young like a little whore. But maybe that was the thing...maybe he only was interest in her because of how easy she was.

But even if that was true, I sure hope he didn't think I was easy, because I'm not, I could take all this away from him just as easy.

Even then he continued, " So how long you plan on working here?", he leaned forward towards the table resting his arms on it beckoning her to answer. I swallowed using every last ounce of my strength not to scowl and roll my eyes at him. Simon chuckled at Alvin's behavior while Jeanette did the same and giggled.

Was I the only sane person sane person here?! Could they not see this? I glared at the waitress who now looked like she could barely contain herself from the joy at being not only responsible for six of the most well-known Hollywood Class A celebrities, but the fact that the most worldwide renowned rockstars of all time was giving her his undivided attention.

The reality of it all was finally starting to kick in.

But did she really think she had a chance with him? She knew as well as I did that she didn't! I crossed my arms and pursed my lips together not saying anything.

" As long as I can, really. Theodore said I can really move up if I work hard enough." Theo nodded in agreement while she giggled running her hand through her bangs and taking a glance at me. But I didn't crack a smile.

She awkwardly turned back to Alvin as he spoke to her, " You sure you wanna just be a waitress, a girl as pretty as you should be in something like…", he shrugged and sat up leaning back again resting his arm on the back of his chair, " ..I don't know movies or something."

"Alvin…", Dave warned at him, but he didn't seem phased. Alvin didn't even look at Dave because his eyes were still fixed on the Ms. Teen Mom 3. It was clear as day that Dave had the bare minimum of authority over him because by the way Alvin pretty much ignored him, Dave might as well should've been invisible.

All the while, Simon and Jeanette shared a laugh all while Eleanor covered her mouth trying not to giggle and Theo shook his head smiling. Were me and Dave the only ones that could see past his conniving ways?

Were they all smiling because they knew he was joking, or...

"Don't you think so?", Alvin insisted his voice taking on a deep baritone with a gleam in his eye. His indigo orbs trailed up and down her body licking his lips again erupting a flame in my spirit.

When I turned to look at her, her face was in an immediate blush and her words were becoming mixed and stumbled, " Ohh...umm...I don't know. I've always wanted to be an actress though….", her voice begin to become noticeably lower, " Maybe when I'm not busy do you think you could help me?"

He nodded slowly trailing his eyes down and back up bringing his eyes back to hers, " I think I can." Was he even hearing himself?! He cleared his throat and spoke again, " I mean I don't usually say this to just anyone.

Many girls are actually down for this type of stuff, but you're the only one I actually see any real potential in. " I had a lump in my throat, but I couldn't even say anything. It was like….like…

You know what? NO! I wasn't gonna have this!

"UM!"

Me and Eleanor stopped and looked at each other seeing as though we interrupted them at the same time. I started breathing heavily. We also caught sight of Dave who looked like he was ready to speak up as well, but was beginning to straighten up seeing that we beat him to the punch.

I opened my mouth and then closed it again and gulped. Eleanor then swallowed before making a genuine but nervous smile trying to break the tension. "U-um, how about we just start on the drinks for now um Kelly.", she finished sheepishly straightening out the top of her dress.

She gave Kelly a brief glare followed by a fake half-hearted smile to issue a warning. Kelly had trouble maintaining eye contact and very sheepishly started to pull out her notepad and a pen.

Thank God for that. I glanced at Theodore who appeared to be embarrassed at what just went on while Jeanette had her hand close to her mouth like she had just got done covering it.

Simon's eyes darted from the waitress to Alvin to me and back to Eleanor trying to figure out what just happened. Dave's face held a frown clearly disapproving of Alvin's shameless flirting.

Alvin wasn't even bothered. Still, he stayed leaning back into his seat while eyeing the waitress with a clear smirk on his face unfazed by what just happened. Did he not see anything wrong with flirting at the dinner table?!

I was glad that Eleanor had interrupted that witch at the same time as me. Lord only knows how I would've felt if I was the only one that said something. Then I wouldn't be able to hide the hate I felt for that waitress which everyone would clearly describe as jealousy.

As if she possessed anything that I'd actually be jealous of. There was the fact that Dave was ready to raise hell too, but he didn't manage to say anything in time, so I would've ended up feeling stupid.

"Oh um yes, sorry.", the Kelly baby mama girl stated finally pulling out her notepad and pen and began flipping through the pages, " What can I start you guys off with?" We all gave her our drink requests and she jotted them down quickly trying to act all professional now that she was called out on her rudeness.

Ugh, like did she not see the fact that we were the ones dressed up for this event while she had on her tacky waitress outfit? She needed to stick to taking orders since that's obviously what she does best aside from opening her legs!

Maybe I was being too harsh but whatever. I unraveled my arms and bit my lip trying not to explode from the anger I felt this very second. Why did he just do that? And in front of everyone at the table?

I know I didn't own him, but...I kinda felt like I did. What right did he have flirting with other girls?...But, what could I have expected out of him? He was a hotshot, a rockstar, and he got what he wanted. Just like it never stopped me when I wanted to flirt with any guys I found attractive.

But still! I never took it this far, or made any inklings to him about the guys I got! I ran my fingers across my chest touching my 'Royalty' necklace. I didn't want to look at him, not now.

Everyone at the table resumed talking in a seemingly awkward manner before slightly picking it up to keep things flowing. I'm not so sure that girl would be keeping her job after this, but what did I know.

"Alvin.", Dave warned in a threatening tone, but Alvin had took out his phone and was scanning and scrolling through it bluntly ignoring him. I froze, I knew Alvin was disrespectful and unruly at times, but never knew him to be this defiant. I watched him quizzically and waited for an answer.

Nothing came.

" Alvin.", Dave interjected a second time, throwing chills up my back and through my chest. I didn't like this, I never did. Whenever they did something like this, it made me feel awkward. Like when any parent disciplines their kid around you, you feel uncomfortable.

"Whaat?", Alvin raised his voice and half of us at the table froze. I never felt like I wanted to disappear so badly. What had gotten into him? Had the fame thing gone through his head or something since he went solo?

I didn't even know how to react, and I didn't even want to look at Dave. After a few seconds covering up from brief humiliation, Dave sat up a little straighter and cleared his voice, " You know what. So cut it out right now.", he finished firmly. Alvin scowled and rolled his eyes going back to his phone.

Instantly I thought back to what Dave said earlier about Alvin. How Dave wasn't his manager anymore. I knew Alvin was very direct and headstrong about what he wanted just like myself, but I never thought he would go that far to telling Dave that.

Whatever the case was, I knew the encounter hadn't been pretty. No matter what, I knew they had fought about it intensely. There was no way Dave would allow that, not without a fight.

Was it me or...why were they being so cold to each other? They greeted each other just fine but it had to be more than plain father son issues. I was going to figure it out one way or another.

---

My thoughts ran back to the waitress encounter and I released a long, ragged sigh cursing myself for even bring it back to my attention. I hoped my distress would trace by unnoticeably. Maybe I was overreacting. He wasn't actually asking her out...or was he?

He was just talking about movies. But then again, Alvin was also an actor, but actors don't get other actor's into movies unless they were directing too. It would make more sense if Simon was the one convincing her! And Alvin was just talking about her appearance, he hadn't actually seen her acting!

So he was flirting! Irregardless of how he made it look, I can't believe he was being so stupid! He knew exactly what we had, was he just trying to throw it away?! I know we're not together but-

Instantly, I felt the cool breath and the deep, exotic musk of manly cologne consume me once more. I tried to focus on something else, anything that would keep my mind off of it. The crystal chandeliers, the conversation at the table, something!

Then it hit me again, the cologne had the scent of a grown, well-established man. I knew it was expensive too. It almost felt like he was leaning his whole body against mine, or maybe I was imagining it.

A hand brushed its way over my thigh very slowly almost making me moan in surprise and wrapped its fingers around my now shaky hand and squeezed. Before could muster up a breath, I heard a voice in my ear, " You better behave, Brittany and quit getting all jealous at the dinner table, you know I was just joking."

He gave me gave me a sharp swat on my exposed thigh making a light tapping noise causing me jump in surprise. Without any remorse, he leaned back in his chair to his original position casting an eye at me smirking slyly .

For a moment I was frozen, those brief gestures in what seemed like affection and discipline made half of me wanting to scream at him in annoyance and curse him for ever trying to 'tame' me. Even then, I couldn't even control the backflips my heart was doing in my chest from letting him have so much control over me in this whole situation.

Then another part of me wanted to melt. The idea of him dominating me made part of me angry, but another part of me found it sexy.

I bit my lip and he raised a brow asking me indirectly for an answer. I gave him one of my many pouts trying not to let the others at the table notice, but they were too deep talking about the International Music Awards last night.

I remained silent waiting on him to say something. Even then he still has that...that smirk on his face!

He just didn't wanna get it did he! Alvin lowered his eyes at me and drank me in, he took a deep breath, "What's wrong?", he mouthed silently with his lips not taking his gaze away with his arm across the back of his chair half turned to me unfazed still .

I growled, my stomach reeked with fury and we were in public so I was in no position to cause a scene. Eleanor was different, on the other hand, but seriously? Now he wanted to play dumb?!

I looked around hesitantly making sure the conversation wasn't dieing down, making sure nobody was paying attention to us. I pressed my lips together tightly, " You know what's wrong!", I whispered sharply glaring at him full of rage.

He cocked his head to the side arrogantly, " Aww, what's the matter princess?" I frowned and bit my tongue not saying anything trying to ignore the fire in my stomach from his cocky attitude.

"You jealous?", he taunted and I immediately froze. The noise in the room seemed to fade out as I felt like we were the only ones in the room. " What?!", I shrieked gritting my teeth together. Quickly, I turned my face toward the ground, praying to God he would not see my reaction as I ran my hands over my face.

"Well? If its about that girl, don't worry about it. ", he pestered reaching out and tugging on a strand of my auburn curls pulling and tugging it lightly. " I see you got all prettied up for me tonight, don't act like I didn't notice you 'cause you know I did."

Taking a deep breath to compose myself and sat up straight, I turned to look back up at him. All of who he was, I desperately reminded myself; handsome and arrogantly attractive on the outside but shockingly genuine and deep within.

In a moment of pride, I swatted my hair out of his hand but it only made him continue of smile at me unafraid. "Ugh! Don't embarrass me Alvin!", I sneered over at him still trying to keep my voice lowered so nobody could hear us, " Let's just drop it , it's whatever!"

His features held no sign of uncertainty, instead he was quite the opposite, "Mmm, it's okay Brittany", he fixed his collar not taking his eyes off me, " Tonight you can have all my attention."

My jaw tightened, and caused me to shrink back in intimate awareness. My body felt warm and puzzling on the inside. There he goes again, teasing me. But, I should be happy, right? The attention is not on that girl anymore.

The endorphins in my brain rose up to meet my desire and washed away all of my potential stress and anger I had been feeling since I got to the table. I thought my stress was beginning to take over me, but I wiped it away with a smile, " Hmph, that's what the hell I thought, rockstar. I expected to be treated like the queen that I am."

I took notice of everyone at the table starting to face the opposite direction where Theodore and Eleanor were pointing to. They were pointing to the extra arrays and separate sections where the buffet would be opening up next week.

" Ohhh.", Alvin said out loud all of a sudden and my breath was stolen from me and replaced with fear as some people from around the other tables fixed their heads up at him, " You mean like this?" Out of nowhere, he pulled me face toward him attempting to kiss me.

No!

Fear shot through my spine and without thinking a freaked while my body took over complete control as if I was under attack, "Ack!", I practically threw my hands over my face in a desperate attempt to cover up my pride and my image and before I knew it.

Nothing came.

I opened my eyes and glanced around frantically slowly brought my hands down and stopped short. Because he was sitting back in his seat with his arm back across the chair grinning at me.

My face was felt like it was on fire and was starting to match the hue of his stupid cap. I was shaking and my breathing didn't seem like it was doing any better, I still was in deep shock and I grimaced as the others turned back around towards the table clearly unaware of what had just went on.

That little sneak! He knew to do that when they were turned around so they wouldn't notice! But, that didn't change the fact that others at the tables around us has caught sight of what just happened!

He alway did crap like this and managed to get away with it! From going solo years ago to having the group in his name and getting away with flirting with that tacky waitress! Gosh, when was he going to learn?!

I was breathing hard, I wanted to strangle him! Does he know what could've happened if…

"...That's really them right?...I think they do go out."

"….yeah I saw in Celebrity Gossip... I think they go with each other…"

I heard some giggling. Was that...people laughing?

I shot my head around and gasped in horror. There were some older and younger people in the Food Industry as well as a few commoners that were unknown tag-alongs trying to gain some significance by being here.

A few girls locked eyes with me and started to cover their mouths as their eyes widened in pure shock. They casted their starstruck gazes over at me and started to become full of surprise and joy. Figures, they were seeing me for the first time.

I ignored the hushed whispers and frequent waving towards my direction and gave my concern to two girls that caught eye contact with me and smiled mischievously, " So is it true?", one of them asked bluntly, " Ya'll go together or what?

My mind felt fuzzy and my body got that numb feeling all over again. There were always fans everywhere I went that were completely starstruck and in love with me, but then there were the others. The ones that were seemingly unintimidated and would stop at nothing to sabotage everything I got going on for me right now.

I swallowed with a frown on my face pursing my lips together, " What's it to you?", I sneered.

According to my manager, the rules were you had to be nice to fans. Every fan. Lest they go out and blast your name to the public. I, on the other hand, didn't play by those rules. Anybody who wanted a piece of me would get checked real quick.

She looked taken back, but still had a hint of a smile on her face, instantly reminding me of the girl I fired earlier today. I knew what she was doing. Trying to show off in front of her friends. If I knew anything about girls like that, is that a little dominance goes a long way.

One of her silly friends leaned over and muttered excitedly, " I am so glad you slept with that entrepreneur and managed to get us tickets so close to their table", she grinned excitedly and I failed to hold back my disgust.

Ew, really? She did not just say that shamelessly like that was something to brag about. Yeah, I worked hard to get to where I am today and there's no problem cheating a little bit to get what you want, but I would never go that far. That's like me sleeping with my manager trying to get ahead. I'm no whore.

"I just wanna know!", she continued striking me out of my daze while straightening out her white dress which I couldn't help but think was a horrible idea to wear to somewhere where food could spill all over you, " You guys were just playing just now! Plus, I need to know if he's single because if he is, then I needed to give him my number by tonight."

At that remark, Alvin wheeled around on instinct and their eyes lit up eagerly and the whole table took sight of his attention and fixed their gaze on him grinning, unable to sit still.

The girls near her started waving and reaching out to him mouthing 'I love you' over and over again earning a sexy smirk and a flirtatious nod from him.

My blood was boiling. Having caught both of our attention, everyone at the table and some of the tables nearby started waving and talking over themselves full of exhilaration.

" Slide me your digits when we get up outta here, babe.", he remarked smoothly and as soon as he did that, it was like a bomb was set off and shrieking and cooing began to erupt as the female immediately covered her mouth with both of her hands looking like she was about to cry.

The females around sitting next to her were speaking a form of gibberish talking over each other trying to convince Alvin to do the same for them. I scoffed full of disgust and twisted back around to everybody at our table who were all now looking at me all puzzled, but I ignored them.

Alvin had turned back around slowly and was shaking his head slowly smiling at his latest antics, but I didn't want to look at him. How could he be so arrogant and inconsiderate of my needs! If I did anything near what he did, he would throw a fit! I squinted my eyes shut and turned away.

He began to speak up at the table muttering a few words and then stopping himself in mid sentence upon seeing the pout my face. He then inched forward closer to my face and whispered seductively, " You mad?"

Inhale...

A white hot rage embedded itself inside me and I swear I wanted to scream. I didn't know how much more I could possibly take tonight. Out of anger and in an attempt to redeem myself, I twisted around and caught his eye with a fire blazed in mine, " Alvin you can't just-

"Shut uuuupp, you know you loooove me.", he gave me a sexy grin and dared me to say something back, but I couldn't. I mustered up a breath in my throat and pushed and pushed, but nothing ever came out. I stopped.

This game he had me playing...a game that I had been playing with him for years...how was it that I always knew he was cheating and I still would let him win?

Exhale...

What made him have the audacity to get away with so many things in one night?! He was always taking a mile whenever he was given an inch! Gosh, I just...I ugh! I stuttered and tried to hide my embarrassment from the others at the table who were still deep into their own conversations, " Alvin you...just-

" So!", Eleanor announced over everyone taking me by surprise, " Did you guys all like the layout of the restaurant? We wanted to stray away from the color green soo…", she finished with uncertainty. Everyone pitched in and gave their own two cents complementing the outcome.

I breathed a sigh of relief, I had to just deal with Alvin later. The public eye just made everything so much more complicated.

Dave interjected, " I really like the type of colors you guys chose, it makes the whole place look a bit more spiffy."

Theodore choked on a laugh before straightening out his bowtie and throwing his arm back around Eleanor's shoulder, " Really, Dave? 'Spiffy' ", he gave him a cheeky grin. We all begun to crack up laughing across the table, I had to admit that was actually funny. Who still said that?

Dave looked slightly offended but then tried to make up for it, " Well, you know like 'spiffy'. Like elegant, poised, you all know what I'm talking about, right?", Dave looked as though he was trying to prove he still 'had it' and we all couldn't help but continue to laugh and shake our head at him nonetheless.

"Well, what would you guys say about it then?, he objected as he surveyed our faces for an answer.

"Well.", Simon began, " For one, we knew what you meant, but your vocabulary is a tad out of style.", he finished while all of us hollered once again and clutched our stomachs laughing uncontrollably. Jeanette held on to her blush trying to hide her smile. She playfully tapped Simon on his shoulder while he shared her smile.

She knew as well as I did that Simon had jokes. I'm really surprised they weren't a couple yet, but maybe they were. Maybe that's why Jeanette was equally as afraid to face the reporters as I was.

Maybe she and Simon knew something I didn't know about. Either way, I'll be getting her to fess up sooner or later.

" Well Simon...I hate to be the bearer of bad news, wasn't it only recently that you had begun to take a certain interest in style?", Dave declared sat back in a mocking sassy manner and we gasped and stared wide eyed at Dave mustering up a laugh that blasted out of everyone's mouths and steadily increased.

This was too rich, even Simon started to join in before speaking up again, " Dave, are you really gonna go there with me tonight?", he laughed and professed while we all held on to our seats and tried not to fall out of them due to uncontrollable howling. " You had better be glad I took interest in it, if it wasn't for me, you would've showed up looking like the Great Depression."

We all could not control our laughter at this point. I was going to die, on this cold floor, all because I was trying to hold back a laugh that came out nonetheless.

From what I could see, Jeanette's cheeks were bright red giggling uncontrollably with one hand over her mouth laughing and sighing repeatedly with her eyes glazed with welled up tears of laughter. Theodore had one hand over his eyes with his elbow on the table laughing and wheezing nonstop struggling to catch his breath.

I made sight of Eleanor who had her head down on the table covering her face and could equally be described as repeating the same behavior as everyone else. Alvin was leaned all the way back in his seat throwing his head back with one hand gripped on to his cap laughing while the other was raised up in front of his mouth almost touching it with a tint of red on his cheeks.

I was never one to say it out loud, but…

Alvin actually looked really gorgeous this way…

His neck was arched exposing the tanned muscles on his jaw outlining his neck and torso where a part of his chest was exposed defining his toned body. He had become this beautiful laughing and sighing creature. He had the most beautiful smile...and just like that, I felt all my anger leave me for a while.

Dave rolled his eyes, "Are you all saying that I'm old?". Alvin straightened up and ran his hand lazily through his messy hair, " Well we're not gonna tell you anything you don't already know, old man."

We all flew into another laughing spree clapping and almost crying at Dave's face. We knew it was mean, but Dave was just really fun to mess with and Alvin was the king of setting him off.

Dave shook his head at all of us, " You know. You guys act like you're going to be this age forever, you're going to be in for a shock when you get to be my age." We all chuckled and laughed again with our faces red with laughter.

It was fun playing with Dave, he seemed so unaware sometimes. Eleanor straightened out the top of her dress and sat up straighter, " Well…anyway as I was saying.", she said upon catching her breath, " I hope you guys like everything that's here tonight, we had so many things we wanted everyone to get a chance to try."

"Ohhh that was gold.", Theodore remarked snapping everybody back into the previous conversation setting off a brief chuckle off in everyone as we all got our breathing back together.

Simon ran his hand lazily through his hair, " I just didn't want Dave thinking that he was going to say something like that and get away with it."

Dave chuckled, " Alright, Simon, I'll let you slide with that one."

I looked at Eleanor and attempted to acknowledge her last statement, "Well, that should be good considering that I heard that some of the specials will be some of Miss Miller's.", I spoke up in hopes of being the bigger person.

I had heard from Jeanette a few things about this place so I thought I might mention them in hopes that she would at least be interested that I was knowledgeable of her accomplishments.

" Yeah, they will.", she answered blandly not looking at me. I pressed my lips together tightly and took a deep noticeable breath. I swear I was two seconds from calling up a limo and high-tailing it up out of here.

All of her disrespect was completely uncalled for. I haven't said anything rude to her since I got in here and she was asking for it, she really was.

"Wait a minute Ellie, I have a question.", Jeanette pressed forward. Eleanor almost instantly shot over to Jeanette and smiled sweetly at her, " Yeah, Jean?" I wanted to scream, this was almost too good to be true.

Did I not just give her a full blown compliment for her to blow it back in my face? Oh, that's it. I was done. I'm just gonna worry about myself for tonight, forget about a reconciliation, I wasn't having this.

" Like aren't we supposed to have menus or something?", Jeanette asked full of concern. All of us at the table suddenly snapped into realization. Where were our menus? Theodore immediately chimed in thoughtfully, " Oh, yeah I forgot about that!"

I looked at him puzzled, " You guys forgot to make menus?", I rested my arms on the table and waited for an answer. " Hmph, I hope not.", I heard Alvin say next to me. That was funny, a few seconds and I hardly remembered he was here.

"Oh no, no. We have menus.", Eleanor stated to all of us, " We said it in our announcement that we instead are going to be bringing out many different entrees to our table almost like a buffet. So you guys can try the specials all at once."

Everybody agreed wholeheartedly and nodded in agreement. Well almost everybody. That sounded okay, but I kinda wanted to see what they had in mind on the menu, but I guess this will be kinda good so I could tell Destiny about it all. That or she'd kill me.

"What do you mean you hardly remembered I was here?", I heard a voice say. A voice that was right next to me I should add. I stiffened up and tried to register what was just said. Wait a minute, did I end up saying that out loud?!

Oh no, not this again. I cursed to myself upon being so stupid as to allow my thoughts to unintentionally come out of my mouth. I squinted right and left praying that nobody was listening. Then I half-turned to him with my eyes narrowed in a confused manner and brought him my attention.

" Don't act like you forgot what I said earlier.", he smirked daring me to do something about it. I bit my lip and balled my fists to clench the bottom of my dress in nervousness and frustration, " All it takes is one kiss tonight. One. Then everybody will have tomorrow's headlines before the press does."

My stomach was doing flips and I felt sick. I could not allow him to sabotage everything I worked so HARD for ! Why was he doing this?! He acted fine this morning but…

But that's just it.

The public. Crowds. An audience. That's what fuels his ego, that's what always does. He was doing this to establish his control, boost his ego. It was so he could remind me...about what he told me when we first started…'seeing' each other.

"Don't forget who's boss, Brittany.", he finished and raised his eyes with the same mischievous smile he had earlier. I pressed my lips together with the hint of a smile and his expression matched mine. I didn't want to, but he knew I liked that. That kind of stuff.

The kind of power he had over me. It made me feel like I was his, even though we weren't really together. Our attraction was indefinite. It was always going to be there. Sly as he is though, I knew I couldn't let him have all the fun. He knows I finish whatever he starts.

" So Alvin.", Theo states from across the table and Alvin half turned to him with raised brow and gave him an upward nod, " Y'know I wanted to ask you something, y'know if you're not too busy with your girl over there."

I clenched my jaw and pursed my lips at Theo and he grinned mischievously. We had been at this for years and he had always said that stuff mostly when he was in the same room as me and Alvin. Mostly because I did the same thing when me and Eleanor we're on good terms.

Alvin straightened himself out in his seat to face Theo, "Naw, me and Barbie here were just discussing our wedding plans.", he replied before winking at me. I rolled my eyes and brought my attention back to the table where everybody snickered and giggled at his statement but I ignored them.

"So, I heard they just got done with your movie Crash Fusion. When is the premier for it, we could use some free tickets.", Theodore laughed and cuddled closer to Eleanor. " I was speaking to the director about it awhile ago actually.", Simon added, " He said it was already going up for a few awards already. I think ' Best Sound ' was one of them."

Alvin perked up as he always did when the attention was on him. I tried not to roll my eyes for a second time. Alvin cleared his voice, " Yeah uh...I think one of the others was a ' Best Picture' nomination. So you already know I'm hyped up about it."

Jeanette giggled and patted her bun straightening out a few loose strands, " What exactly is the movie about, Alvin ?" Simon rolled his eyes in a joking manner and groaned, " Augh, Jeanette didn't I already tell you that?"

Everybody cracked up at Simon's remark while Jeanette looked playfully offended with her hand raised and turned upward in confusion laughing. " What are you talking about Simon?!", she looked honestly confused despite her laughing.

Simon rolled his eyes again, "I tell you about it all the time, what do you mean ''you don't know' ? I told you I was working on parts of it with the director!"

" Ah, Jean you're so slow sometimes.", Eleanor remarked and everybody hosted and hollered even louder. Jeanette face was turning red as she smiled and Dave interjected at this point, " Jeanette I do recall Simon telling you about it on several occasions." Jeanette waved us all off and blushed, " Oh whatever you guys."

Alvin ran his hand through some of his messy stands, " That's okay, Jeanette.", he laughed and continued, " You're not the only one that probably doesn't know what it's about." He narrowed his eyes at me and glanced back at her.

" Hey, what?!", I objected sitting up straighter, " I do know what it's about! You're like a spy right?"

He snickered and everyone at the table groaned and laughed at me and Jeanette overall. " Well what is it about then?!", I asked trying to ignore my faint embarrassment. " Well, my dear fiancé…", Alvin began and at that everyone chucked at his remark while I frowned, " I'll have you know the movie is about guns and racing."

I sighed heavily, " Okay well-

"And.", Alvin interrupted leaning back in his chair throwing his arm across it again, " It had better get that ' Best Picture ' award or I'll have to sweet talk whoever is in charge."

" Alvin." , Dave started up again in warning as Alvin rolled his eyes and brought his eyes over to him with clear defiance, " Yes, Dave?". The whole table was growing silent again by the second. If there was a black hole in the ground, I'd gladly sink through it right now.

" You know you're not supposed to do that.", Dave warned for a second time. " Calm down, it was just a joke, dad. ", Alvin said blandly not taking his eyes off of him. " Well, it isn't very funny.", Dave confirmed acting like Alvin's mock sarcasm didn't hurt him. Alvin rolled his eyes and shrugged muttering a ' whatever ' before returning his attention back to Jeanette telling her more about the movie.

Now that I thought about it, maybe the tension between the both of them was probably more than Alvin just growing up. Dave didn't seem to be bothered with Theodore or Simon's behavior. But, on the other hand, they were never a real problem to Dave. Maybe it was the fact that Dave started them as a singing group and he missed it.

Maybe it was the fact that Dave wasn't Alvin's manager anymore.

I don't care when it was gonna happen, but I was gonna find out the reason behind this. I knew they had their issues. But they we're acting like sworn enemies now.

" Honestly Dave, I hate to say it but I kinda agree with your… 'other' child", Simon remarked earning a smug look from Alvin who smiled at his joke, " We might have to sweet talk the management if we wanna get the award. Heck, I worked on that movie too, it wasn't easy."

We all burst out laughing at his remark and Dave's expression. He looked like he couldn't believe what Simon had just said. Agreeing with Alvin?!

My cheeks were beginning to hurt from all this laughing tonight. I was actually happy they were though. With all the stress in my life and everything I had to get done today, it had been a minute since I was able to laugh like this.

"You'll come with us right, Jeanette?", Simon narrowed his eyes at Jeanette smiling who blushed and rolled her eyes at him. " Don't go bringing my sister into this, Simon!", Eleanor argued playfully, but I only felt increased animosity. I hate how when you don't like someone and then everything they do starts to annoy you so bad, it's just ugh so frustrating!

" Yes.", Dave commented fixing his sleeve on his blazer, " We don't want her picking up on you guy's bad habits." On that, Jeanette giggled, " Don't worry, Dave. I can handle myself."

The music in the background from the stage gradually altered to a more upbeat smooth jazz attire changing the mood of the room completely. It almost felt like we were in New Orleans. Maybe Destiny, Jeanette, and I could vacation there I don't know, I'll ask Jeanette when we get home and we go for a late night swim like she mentioned in the limo.

Eleanor got up suddenly stating that she was going to the front real quick to mention something to one of the head managers of the restaurant about capers...customers...something whatever. My chest dropped much to my satisfaction seeing her leave the table for however many minutes she was gonna be gone.

My moment was short lived because as soon as she left, that tacky baby mama waitress was making her way towards the table with our drinks on a silver platter. The feeling in my chest was back again as I saw her very briefly make eye contact with Alvin and blushing.

My blood was boiling again. She better hurry up and get this over with. I felt like a loaded gun ready to spew insults any minute now. She wasn't getting any tips from me either.

Everybody at the table looked eager to see her, or maybe more eager to get their drinks considering that it had taken forever. Like seriously, did it really take this long to send some drinks over?! She called out each drink and handed it off to the appropriate person while I watched her like prey. Carefully analyzing where her eyes were going.

When she called out my drink, I didn't say anything, I just reached out and tried not to cringe as her fingers grazed mines and sat my pink lemonade down carefully, she refused to make eye contact with me like a coward.

As she called out the last one, she soon met Alvin's eyes and my body heated up as she gave him his drink slowly while Alvin eyed her with a smirk. She brought her hand back and fixed her hair flirtatiously and winked at him.

It was like somebody stabbed me with a knife and twisted it. Who does she think she is?! I growled as I stared at the light pink liquid as it swirled around in my glass surrounded by many different ice cubes nearly matching its color and wanted to scream. I had thought that the pink liquid would take my mind off him and keep it on me since pink was my color after all.

But the more I stared at the red cherry at the top of my glass, the more I thought of Alvin. The pink lemonade may have taken over the whole glass but the cherry always came out on top. I didn't even want to touch my drink anymore. All that alone combined with their heated interaction made me want to strangle him.

" So Al?", Theodore spoke up as everyone sipped their drinks, " I heard they're already in the process of making a sequel to the movie in Japan I think." Simon brought his brows together confused trying to recall a memory, " Yeah, I think they're gonna call it Tokyo Rush I think. ' Crash Fusion: Tokyo Rush'. That's what the director told me the other day."

" Yeap! They already sent me the script. I read some of it this morning and uh…", Alvin leaned forward facing Theodore , " I think they want you to make a cameo, bro." Me and Jeanette glanced at each other and nodded in agreement, " Yeah Theo, that's should be great for you!", Jeanette told him before sipping more of her drink.

" Are you thinking about giving it a shot?", Dave smiled over at him beckoning him to answer. Theodore looked stunned with all the added attention and Alvin's mischievous smirk wasn't making it any better.

Theodore sheepishly pulled on his collar, " Oh no guys, I really don't know about that. I mean I'm real busy with the restaurant I just...woo...that's uhh…a lot."

Simon looked appalled, " You should really do it, Theodore! It could really be your first movie!" Jeanette smiled and fixed her heel from under the table, " Yeah, and you'll have both of your brothers with you, it could be just like old times!"

"Yeah…", Alvin agreed, " It could be just like old times. Right, B?", he finished smack me on my leg. I flinched and jumped slapping him the arm, " Quit! ", I sneered at him not caring who heard, " Maybe if you weren't such a biter on me going solo, it would be like old times."

Everybody chucked at the table, "I heard that, Brittany.", Theodore agreed raising up his glass and I did the same and toasted it to him giggling. When I turned to Alvin I almost wanted to go run and hide, he smiled at me evilly before turning away and my heart took a couple of steps back. I knew something was wrong and just like that...

Almost suddenly, I stopped and paused.

I felt something warm graze it's way onto my thigh.

It gently maneuvered its way all the way down to my knee and all the way back up. Was that...was he….he couldn't be...that was him touching me.

Alvin's hand was firm and warm as it gently slid down and back up the top of my leg very slowly. I bit my lip and tried not to moan as I slightly turned toward him. He was still acting like he was focused on the conversation at the table.

He briefly glanced at me smirking before looking away and brought his fingers on the tip of my dress gently tugging on it. I shot my hand out and gripped his.

" No.", I muttered through my teeth. Jeanette looked and turned toward me confused and I almost screamed but swallowed my fear. I sheepishly smiled at her while she gave me a one in return still with a confused look on her face before turning away. I brought my attention back to Alvin, " Not here.", I muttered but he ignored me.

"Shhh…", he scolded me in a hushed tone, " Remember what I told you about that kiss." I felt all traces of my existence wash away as the blood drained from my face. He couldn't be. He was blackmailing me! I wanted to shout and scream at him for even thinking this was in any way okay! I pouted at him as he still smirked at me and I turned away slowly .

Could I even be mad at him...I mean...I could get mad at what he was doing to me but I liked it.

I hated myself for letting him have so much control over me like this, but… the way my thighs were shaking as the same rate of my chest combined with the excitement of nobody knowing what we were doing under the table...I gradually allowed him to lift up my dress exposing the chill of the air to my now exposed thigh.

My heart was caught in my throat as I gripped the edge of my seat and softly moaned careful not to let anyone hear me as he ran his hand up slowly and stroked me tenderly. Gently gripping and tugging on me as he caressed me, I bit my lip careful trying not to let out another moan, " Alvin…", I whimpered and sighed feeling the warmth trail all over my body, " You can't."

" I can. And I will.", he responded unintimidated. He stroked and stroked running up and down the length of my thigh. I had to do something. I couldn't just let him treat me like this. He grazed his fingers back and forth before replacing them with his palm rubbing and stroking over and over again. "Mmm…", I moaned again cursing myself for letting it get this far. I just couldnt let him get away with this.

"UM!"

I spoke too loudly. Now everyone, including Alvin was looking at me, only he had the glint of a smile on his face. Very sheepishly, I had to think of something. I did not want to be on the news tomorrow.

I cleared my voice, " I..uhh...I'm gonna go to the bathroom.", everyone looked relieved before nodding at me, though confused. I bet they were noticing the red in my face, I hope they didn't think I was constipated or anything! Carefully, I pulled my dress back down and straightened it out avoiding all contact with Alvin. " Be right back.", I muttered.

" You better be.", Alvin responded turning to me earning a confused look from Dave. I took slow steady breaths pushing my chair back in and making my way behind me and down the hall. I ignored the flirtatious winks and waves from everyone who suddenly gave me their undivided attention.

If they thought I was rude and wanted to tell the public about it, then whatever. I had to get a minute to myself or I was going to scream.

Bathroom...Bathroom...where is the bathroom?!

"Oh!", I glanced down the hall to my right. It was the same one Jeanette went down earlier when we first got here. I hurriedly made my way through the hall going past the array of fancy pictures and exquisite wall lights until I found a ladies room sign. I pushed open the door and hurried in stopping and looking around.

The bathroom was a cream color with All kinds of gold and bright lights. It was extremely clean and had a long mirror with many different baskets with napkins and gum with mints and state of the arc high technical dryers and sinks.

I breathed a huge sigh of relief and threw myself on the wall catching my breath. I gripped my chest and touched my shaking thigh. How could he be so careless?! What if somebody saw?! "Ugh…", I groaned to myself, " But he was so in charge...and I liked that."

I took another huge breathed and paused in my steps as I heard a laugh followed by a giggle.

Nooo...was somebody in here too?!

I took a couple of steps forward trying not to allow my heels make too much noise. I looked left and right but nobody was there. They were in the stall. I listened closely feeling nothing but the sound of my heart beat from the high I just came off of.

"... Brittany…..yeah…."

My hand instantly went to cover my mouth. My eyes bugged out and my breath was caught in my throat. I didn't take a step. The shock was too evident. Was that some fan in the bathroom talking about me?!

This is too petty. Like for what ? It was probably that girl in the white dress. Look, if she wanted to come in here and talk crap and not be about it she could come out here and say it to my face, I'm right here!

"...Yeah girl. I'll let you go, I think Everybody is at the table so I'll text you tonight..."

I walked casually over to the sink and crossed my arms and waited. She's gonna deal with me right now, I did not have time for this. I heard the toilet flush and a couple of shuffling before I heard the door start to unlock. I braced myself for anything.

Suddenly, the door creaked open and a flash of blonde caught my attention. My breath was caught in my throat and the white dress that I was supposed to see was instead a deep green. There was no escaping it, because before I could leave, a pair of green eyes met mine and white hot anger flashed through me as I gasped in shock.

"Eleanor?!"

"Brittany?!"

---

Tristina!

Jkjk. Didja like it?! Was it nasty? Too nasty?! Be honest! I wanted to make up to y'all b/c you ain't seen Alvin since last year ( xD) I hope you really enjoyed this, I worked HARD on this! And Alvin is here to stay, don't even mention it. XD

Notice!

Guys, Mr. Wifi is down so I'm typing ALL this from my phone ugh! I am gonna try to get it back up soon, or hit up Starbucks and use theirs. Y'all will get another chapter #Trust I love you guys sooooooooooooooooo much! 8 reviews?! Yas!

REMEMBER, if you like what you read, drop me a line (review)! I love your reviews, my life is so hard right now. Nothing's going right and your reviews are such a blessing, they make me so happy!

Xox#TristinaaaaxoX ahaaaa !