Author's Note!

I'm not yet 21...but this red wine….I'm in loooove. THAT was my inspiration as I wrote this chapter. Wrote this chapter kinda out of it…..hope it made sense. 39 pages though, even longerrrr. Yas!

Did you check out my new user name?

Kali101- You'll just have to read and see! Oh wow, you forgot! Hahaha! Don't worry, there will definitely be some Alvittany, I won't let ya down. #Trust. Yeah, this is my first story, and I'm very new to this. I've realized I don't 'write' like everyone else. So my apologies for taking so long with it. However, you have my deep regards to keeping up. I'm a tension builder b/c I want you to keep coming back (and its working :D) Aaand if I'm not mistaken, you want more….romance? Mkay.

MissSteph22- THANK YOU SOOO SOO MUCH for the compliments! I don't much care for HollyWeird stuff in real life, but for some strange reason, I chose to write about it b/c NOBODY ELSE DOES! The hell? Yeah, they're on that FWB crap. A & B. And I lalaloove Jeanette, that shy nature! Eleanor and Brit? Girl...who knows. They might...they might not. *snickers* I don't have a family so portraying the connection is a bit tough for meh :,( And I thank you for your endless compliments, and you're long reviews! *wink, wink*

LoveCaptainSwanChipmunks- You are the best, i love you sooo much. I had no idea you were Brazilian either (I stalked.) That means you're the 3rd Brazilian I know XDD Aside from my 2 other friends. I updated exactly one day earlier so THERE! Don't say I wasn't thinking about yall! I didn't take another month. Nov 10th- Dec 9th , see?! But, still I hope you looove it! Love u lots!

Guest- YAAAASSS, LIKE WHO ELSE!? She don't want none!


~*Glamorous*~

Chapter 8

Two For the Show

*^,^*


I hunched myself over in my seat clutching my stomach tightly. I could not breath at all, the only sound escaping my lips was the sound of frequent wheezing and muffled giggles. My eyes were squeezed shut and I felt the rush of endorphins consume my spirit.

"And THEN I heard that there was going to be an extra section on the menu where there is going to be an exquisite Cajun part and-

"Alright Destiny!", Jeanette and I exclaimed at the same time. She started laughing along with us before falling on her side clutching her stomach against the cream colored leather seats. Jeez this girl was so crazy! She just went on and on about the food that was gonna be there nonstop!

Though, I'd be lying if I said that it wouldn't be one of my absolute favorite part of the whole night.

"Its just that I'm so excited! You cannot tell me you're not excited. I'm not even gonna be there and I'm excited.", she scanned our faces for any doubt. Jeanette adjusted herself in her seat before responding, " We are Destiny, but still..", she chuckled again before responding, " Maybe you can just order take-out when the grand opening is finished." Destiny scoffed and rolled her eyes playfully, "Psh, do you know how long the wait is going to be for that? I'll be lucky if I'd be able to land a handful of enchiladas by then."

We all erupted into laughter as the limo made its way down some of the most worldwide well-known streets of Los Angeles. Inside of our limousine, the interior was laced with a bunch of light browns, tans, golds, and creams. The ceiling inside held a series of lovely patterns that were laced with the exotic colors and held an opening of the starry night sky. The wide windows around us gave us a tremendous view of the jet black skyscrapers with tiny specks of gold indicated the lit up rooms on the inside slowly drifting past us as the limo made its way onto the highway.

There was a fancy arrangement of wine glasses and ice on small counters scattered around us. Different clusters of lights were ablazed around the wine glasses as well as the beverages in the chilled ice capacity. Nonalcoholic, though. Not like I wanted alcohol or anything!

Whatever. I know I'm not like that, it's not like I'm gonna ask or anything!

Destiny chuckled before smoothing out her shirt and leaning over to reach for her fancy glass to take a sip out of her drink, "We gotta come back though", she swallowed and set her glass back down, "All three of us, when the rush dies down. I need to try some of that steak and lobster like now."

"That actually doesn't sound so bad.", I told her in agreement while playing with the expensive deluxe radio set next to me switching to a oldschool 90s love song . You know what I'm talking about. The ones that never get old.

Jeanette swiped through her phone and crossed one leg over the other, "I just remember her telling me that she was going to make sure that Miss Miller's famous lasagna was going to be on the menu." I raised my eyebrows and nodded, "I'm just probably gonna get whatever you get, Jean."

I turned around and looked out the window behind me getting on my knees to get a better look. I was trying to be careful as to not to let the bottom of my heels scuff the leather seats. The tall black buildings were slowly coming into view before passing away from me.

Buzz!

I snapped my head back and looked at my seat where the vibration jolted through my knees. "You okay, Britt?", Destiny eyed me intently while pouring herself another drink and bringing the glass to her lips. I turned and saw Jeanette giving me a confused look as well. "Y-yeah…", I glanced down at the seat. It was my phone.

My chest felt tight. For my sake I hoped and prayed it was Eleanor calling to cancel the entire thing. I don't even want to hear her voice, but if it was for that reason then I won't mind. I very shakily reached out to my bedazzled phone and swiped my screen only to see a brand new text message from Nina.

My chest immediately loosened up and I let out a breath in relief. I clicked on the message and brought it to my attention.

' Hey beautiful! I'm so happy you decided to go to the grand opening! Have a good time for me! Can't wait to hear all about it! Xoxo'

I plastered a smile across my face andher back a quick reply. Phew. That was a close one. For a second I thought it was-

"So…", I jolted up and turned around sharply to see Jeanette peeking out the window behind her, " If I'm correct, as soon as we get off this freeway, we should be almost there." I pressed my lips into a tight grimace. That's not what I wanted to hear at all. I almost hoped she was wrong. Was I ready for this? I was never one to back down from any challenge.

I can do this. I can do this.

What if I can't do this?

"Then that sounds like a problem, don't you think?", a voice echoed across from me. What the-? I recognized it as belonging to Destiny. Did she really...no. What was she talking about? A look of pure horror was sketched into my face along with my spirit. I gulped and took a shaky breath, "W-what are you talking about?!", I asked her and almost instantly regretted it nearly not wanting to know the answer.

"Well..", she began making herself more comfortable spreading her body across the sofa-like seat, " You guys are almost there so that means you get to have the bomb time at this grand opening with the best food all of LA has to offer while I just go home like a loser and plan to interview these new set of bodyguards for you tomorrow!", she groaned with disgust throwing herself down dramatically. I wrinkled my nose at her and studied her, "I don't remember asking you to do that." She scoffed and rolled her eyes, ' Tony's orders."

At that, me and Jeanette instantly cracked up laughing. I tried to catch my breath after a few more giggles, " Tough luck, girl." She looked like she was trying not to roll her eyes again before reaching over for her drink again, "Clearly.", she replied repeating my comment from earlier when we were outside the studio.

I repositioned myself to face the window behind me. I became entranced with the numerous tall black buildings slowly coming into the distance on the illuminated highway. Another limousine slowly came into view almost as if it was trying to catch up with us. If I didn't know any better, I would say they were headed the same way.

Or maybe I was reading too much into this. Thank God the windows were tinted so they couldn't see me looking out the window. I would try and peek in and see who it was but I knew I was gonna run into a similar problem because their windows were tinted black as well. Guess that was a good thing though, they can't see me and I can't see them.

For all I know, I hope this event wasn't going to be a public event. Like a red carpet kind of thing. It was just a restaurant opening after all, it wasn't like this was the VMAs or a movie premiere or something. There wasn't gonna be any media coverage for sure.

Riiing! Riiing!

I jumped up shot back around my face full of fear. Now who was it?! When I looked up, I soon saw Destiny make a weird face at me. A harmonic sound was coming from the leather seat again. I patted my side next to me and felt my phone, I looked down at it, but it didn't have any light beeping indicating a message or a call. I was confused.

Out of the side of my eye, I saw Jeanette raise her phone to her, "Oh! Look its…", her voice trailed off and she started blushing unable to speak.

My heartbeat started to diminish and I put on a devilish smile, "Who? Go on, finish that sentence, Jeanette.", I smirked and caught Destiny's eye. She snickered and started grinning like crazy, "Yeah Jean. Tell us who it is!", she was laughing and now Jeanette was covering her mouth trying to contain herself. Her cheeks were now highlighted red while she was trying to hide back a smile.

After a few more muffled giggles she brought her hand down while still having her cheeks red and a small smile on her face. She took a slow but steady breath and brought her phone up to her ear, "H-hi Alvin." My eyes bugged out of my skull and my mouth dropped like a rock. I didn't even have time time to look at Destiny for her reaction.

"Whaaaat?!"

Instantly, my chest became tight. Was she really on the phone with him? What was he calling her for? And for what?! Why?! There's nothing for them to talk about and she shouldn't be talking to him anyway! I couldn't control myself, I jumped up and half-tackled Jeanette while beginning to try and rapidly snatch her phone out of her hand.

"Give it here!", I barked at her trying to take it out of her hands. She shrieked and starting laughing nonetheless, she honestly did not understand how serious I was about this. What did they have planned together?! They weren't even supposed to be talking! Did you see me on the phone with Simon? No! Because if I was, she'd be pissed!

"Give it here right now, Jeanette!", I shouted at her while her and Destiny stayed laughing and Jeanette kept holding her phone far far away from me while trying to push me back with her other hand, "B-Brittney!", she was laughing at my reaction.

Again with not taking me seriously! No, I wanted to know what they were trying to talk about! If he wasn't showing up then I needed to know because then that means that I have been nervous all day for nothing!

"Sss-...", she sounded like she was trying to speak but couldn't get a word out. Her cheeks her flushed pink. I didn't see what was so funny. She needed to quit playing and give me this phone!

She took a deep breath and let out a few more giggles still trying to pry me away from being on, "Br-Brittney! I-It's Simooon!". All the blood completely drained from my face and I reeled back almost immediately. Shock ran all through my system.

S-Simon?...

My sweat dropped and I was floored. A flash of embarrassment crossed me and my face said it all, "Oh…", I began, " So it's not..-

"No!", Jeanette and Destiny exclaimed and started cracking up uncontrollably. Jeanette slowly brought the phone back up to her ear with a light giggle muttering something about me that I couldn't hear before nodding to herself, "Yeah, sorry Simon I was just joking, sorry about that.", she explained almost quietly, "Mhmm...she tried to tackle me because she thought I was really on the phone with him.", she started laughing lightly again after stealing a glance at me.

I stared daggers at her with a grimace on my face and she proceeded to snicker while I tried to make my embarrassment not visible on my face anymore.

Destiny was still spread out on her back with her head thrown back laughing like she just heard one of the best jokes ever. I didn't get what was so funny! It's not my fault that Jeanette didn't know who she was messing with! Apparently, she forgot who I was and how I got when that name was mentioned.

I gave Destiny an evil look and waited as the limo slowly made a couple of slight turns and before I could lose my balance, I leaned forward and threw myself on top of her causing her to shriek and burst out laughing as I playfully hit her over and over again while she tried to fend me off.

"H-hey! Brit-ney! S-stoop!", she squealed and doubled over in laughter. " That should teach you to quit laughing at me you witch! You know better!", I shot at her bitterly but she knew I was joking. I reached down for her stomach and began to squeeze and tickle her ferociously earning more shouts and squeals of laughter.

"O-kaay! Okay!", she wiggled and tried to push me away but was failing to do so, " I'm sorryyy!". After a few more tickles, I got off of her and leaned back into the leather sofa breathing deeply and crossing my arms together. She had one hand on her stomach and was trying to get her breathing together letting out a few giggles every now and then. Hmmph, she better be glad that's all she got for laughing at me.

A few loud wheezing sounds were heard from her before she tried speaking again, " You need to freaking calm down, B! Can't even take a joke!", she started laughing again while Jeanette stole a glance at us and struggled not to let any laughing out. "Serves you right then.", I barked while fluffling out my curls.

Ugh, forget them. I did not have time for this. I turned away and caught sight of one of the martini glasses and scooped some ice into it while grabbing a drink out of the ice capacity. I twisted it open before gracefully pouring it, setting it down and bringing my glass to my lips. I felt a tap on my back and knew it was Destiny but purposefully ignored her.

"Brittany!", she exclaimed at me but I purposely ignored them. They were getting on my nerves and I wasn't giving them any time of day. Not with all the crap I had to deal with tonight. I continued to sip my drink before I felt a sharp poke in my back, I knew it was her heel. I said nothing and placed my drink back down on the counter.

Instantly, I felt some shuffling before two arms were wrapped around my stomach and pulling me back sharply. "Ack!", I screamed soon feeling my back against Destiny's chest. "Come on, let's talk we're almost there!", she told me eagerly grabbing both of my arms trying to usher me around. I pressed my lips together and slowly followed her commands. "Talk about what?!", I said loudly.

"Shh!", she whispered fiercely and pointed over to Jeanette who was still on the phone with Simon. "Oops, oh yeah I forgot." She gave me a dumb look before scooting me closer to her. "Okay so you were forreal earlier, right? About Alvin?", she began in descreet. I took a deep breath and sighed rubbing my forehead, " Pretty much. We've been talking a lot lately."

"But, what about hanging out together?", she went on, "Do you guys ever see each other in private or anything. You know how it'll get if the media ever sees you guys even being in the same room together." I was unsure if I wanted to let that piece of information out. I didn't want her to think any less of me. Things with him and me could get a little steamy if you know what I mean. "Not really", I lied hoping she wouldn't be able to tell.

She had an unreadable expression on her face. I sighed again and fessed up, " Okay okay, we've had little moments together, but nothing too major. I wouldn't want him getting the wrong idea."

She nodded, "Or the media for that matter. Word gets out and they could instantly turn you into just another one of those fast girls that Alvin probably messes with." There was that strange feeling again. I pray that he wasn't 'seeing' anyone else for my sake. I was nobody's rebound chick and I do not get played by anyone. I'm the one who's in charge of the game.

"Its just he..", I sighed harshly and thought for a second, " I don't even know.." She looked at me kind of squinting her eyes like she was trying to read me while resting her arm on top of the seat with her hand on her head, "Like...do you want to be with him? Or…", her voice trailed off and I sucked in my breath. "No!", I exclaimed, " I mean. Wait. Destiny...He…", I sighed inwardly. "He would what?", she asked and we both began to feel our bodies lean into the seat as the limo made its way off of the freeway turning out of the highway.

I gulped. That meant we were getting closer to the restaurant. "Do you think like...he'd cheat or something?", she beckoned looking at me with genuine concern. "He'd just play too many games. He's childish sometimes. There were some times where he could be sweet and sensitive and show me parts of him that nobody else knows about him...but…"

"Maybe do you think you could give him a chance? Maybe test the waters with him?", she gave me a small smile and I wasn't doing a good job of returning one. Because I didn't want to. " I just think-no I know he's the type to be playin' games and I'm not the one.", my voice was rising higher. She didn't seem fazed.

She merely shrugged her shoulders, "Don't knock him til' you try him." I was taken back and opened my mouth to say something and nothing but a silent breath of air came out.

I flash of light shined it's way across the limo inside and soon made its way out. Instanty, me and Destiny turned to look out the window as we noticed the limo was also driving a bit slower. She instantly peered her head up and gave a tiny gesture of excitement. I was confused but still nonetheless looked up to what she was looking at and caught sight of a sunroof.

Umm okay. What was so great about that? It was dark outside anyway. Still, she shot up and put her hands on the roof of the limousine and slid it open and poked her head out from it trying to see exactly where we were I bet.

A gasp was heard from above and then I heard her speak, "Oooh! Ohmygoshh!". Jeanette muttered the next part of her sentence to Simon before furrowing her brows together at Destiny looking just as confused as I was.

She said a few more words before positioning her phone between her head and shoulder while scooting herself away from the corner and toward the middle of the seat and taking Destiny's hand. Destiny looked down briefly before redirecting her attention back to whatever it was she was excited at.

She should've been more happy that Jeanette was more concerned about her not falling while the car was moving especially in heels.

My heartbeat felt like a sharp pounding in my chest and looked out the window. I tried to press my face almost but not too close to the window so as to not mess my makeup up trying to see where we were. I could see much because of the tint but there were a lot of lights shining back and forth from up ahead.

"We must be getting closer.", I stated blandly and didn't want to believe myself. It was almost as if the reality of my decision was finally kicking in and I was beginning to know what I was up against. I sucked in a breath and balled my fist and shutting my eyes tightly while tears of frustration threatened to fall.

Who was I fooling? I knew I couldn't handle this. After all these years of being tough and I felt like I was finally reaching my breaking point. All these people were going to be here and I felt like I was going to make a total fool of myself.

These people were just here for a good time and I should be too, but I can't help but feel like I was going to be left out. It was obvious that everyone had reconnected and had been in touch while I was busy making millions. What business did I actually have here?

But at the same time that couldn't be true because everyone was out doing something. Even if Jeanette was just going with me, I knew we all we're out doing our own thing. The others may have talked, but I knew when me and Alvin decided to go solo, the rest of us took charge of our lives as well.

We all didn't even get to see each other as often, not even for the holidays. I'm sure they all have maybe talked here and there, but I knew that none of us really had the time to see each other in person.

I should've just went home. That's a place that I at least know I'm welcome in. And Eleanor?...I mean why should I have to be the one to make up?! She is just as guilty as I am for holding a grudge and making no effort to contact me! She didn't care how I felt if I came, I wasn't even invited. We haven't been close in years…

Years…

Did I even want us to be close again? We did have a lot of great times together...But, that was then.

And this is now.

She's so pathetic, she's either gonna give me attitude or give me the silent treatment and she probably didn't want anything to do with me. If she wanted things that way then fine. I never had to beg and I wasn't going to start anytime soon.

Forget what my manager or Jeanette or what anyone else had to say, I wasn't going to apologize unless she did it first. She's the one who blew this all out of proportion. I gave her this opportunity! I gave her this restaurant! If it wasn't for me lighting the match she wouldn't have the foundation that her restaurant is standing on today, it wouldn't exist!

So there. And if she wanted to pop off then I was gonna go there too. No questions asked.

The limo pulled up slowly and made its way into a gentle stop. The faint noise of a crowd from up ahead was increasing due to the sunroof being opened. I knew that meant we were getting closer. I tried to drown out the roar of it all resting against the seat and letting the smooth music drown out my troubles.

After a second or two I shot a look at Destiny. I didn't want to but I had to ask her, "What does it look like out there?", I asked her as she still had a firm grip on Jeanette's hand because as crazy as she was, I knew she didn't want to fall. She giddily bounced up and down as if she wasn't even in heels, "It's amazing! There's a bunch more limos in front of us but it looks like we're going to be up there eventually. The reporters are greeting the guests so that's probably why its moving slow."

"Reporters?!", I bugged my eyes out and looked up at Destiny in horror. I know that is not what she just said. How can there be reporters there, I thought this was gonna be a private event! Jeanette didn't seem to notice my frustration still on the phone. I groaned in annoyance. Things are already getting from bad to worse and there was nothing I could seem to control.

Eleanor never really went for that kind of thing anyway so why was she all for it today?! For all I know, it could turn into a whole news special and they could possibly bring the cameras inside for the whole occasion and film the whole event.

"Ugggh, this is so stupid!", I groaned inwardly throwing my head in my hands and dragging them down my face. "Noo, its awesome come and see!", Destiny gleamed still out the window now waving at people from the top of the sunroof. I pouted with my head in my hands and stared into nowhere, I knew I was gonna have a rotten time. All this and the paparazzi, now it looks like a red carpet event with reporters I couldn't possibly avoid.

"This night cannot get any worse.", I said to nobody in particular.

Buzz!

I jolted up stunned and looked at my phone. My temples felt like somebody had lit them on fire and I felt like my mind was spinning. My phone was not my friend today, now who did I have to deal with?! Everybody was like out to get me today. Still, I took my phone and swiped my screen and I instantly regretted it.

' Word on the street is that you agreed to show up. You better be ready to handle me tonight.' - Alvin

I felt my face turn beet red and my cheeks were getting hot. My insides felt all tingly from my chest all the way down to my stomach. Was he serious? What, like did he have something like planned specifically for me? I didn't know whether to be excited or nervous about it. Is it okay to say if I was feeling both?

He knew how I got when I was around him. But, I didn't want to give him the benefit of the doubt, so I didn't text back. I knew I didn't have feelings for him. Regardless of what anyone says and I would never feel like he had total control over me, I can handle myself and I could handle him.

Destiny let go of Jeanette's hand and leaned down and hopped back into her seat right next to me, her curly hair slightly frizzed from the chill of the outdoor air. Instantly, she flinched from the cold air that was making its way inside and quickly jumped back up and slid the sunroof closed before sitting back down.

She turned to me grinning, "Are you excited?!", she grabbed me and squeezed me real tight but I had my hands lazily draped around her and I guess she kind of noticed because she let go and looked at me seriously noticing how withdrawn I was.

"What's up?", she asked seriously, "You're face is kind of like..pinkish...kind of like..", she instantly gasped and smiled like she could read my mind. I was worried and you could see it all over my face probably. "He texted you didn't he! Didn't he!" I sucked in my breath and gulped, "I-I uh..umm…-

"Yeah, he did, huh", she nodded agreeing with herself, " I can see it all over your face. So what did he say?" I frowned and paused for a second, " Apparently…", I began pausing for a second time as the limo inched forward in line and then came into another stop. The lights outside were getting brighter and they came shining into the limo and soon fading back out.

The crowd appeared to be getting closer as the booming noise pierced the tinted windows. I took another deep breath, " He said I needed to be ready for whatever plans he has 'in store'... ", I made bunny finger gestures with my hands, "...for me tonight when I see him." I rolled my eyes trying to act like it wasn't any trouble, but I knew I had every reason to feel both excited and tense.

She opened her mouth in shock and began to giggle, " Okay sooo like….what are you gonna do about that..?", she whispered flirtatiously with her voice getting lower while tickling me. She leaned in making kissy faces landing a few on my face and cheeks. I laughed and playfully trying to pushed her away, " Wellll?", she giggled wrapping her arms around me.

"Nooo…", I moaned and sighed against her. She chuckled and pushed her hair back before letting go of me, "Look baby girl, all you have to do is tease tease tease. And he will be wrapped around your finger." I cocked an eyebrow at her and crossed my arms, "And how do you know?"

"Because I do it all the time with guys I like and it works every single time.", she smirked at me. "Come on, Destiny!", I was trying not to laugh but I knew she was right, " You know I don't want to come off as some common hoe!"

She laughed, " Brittany, it's not hoeing! You just show him what he wants and then let him know he can't have it." I leaned into the soft seat and stretched raising my hands over my head, "You say it like it's that simple.", I yawned and crossed one leg over the other, " I wanted him to break his neck trying to get a good look at me."

"Ahaa!", she reached over for her drink, " Girl you know it'll drive him crazy.", she took a sip of her drink, " He loves that body." I laughed and picked my drink up, " That's actually something we can both agree on.", we both toasted our glasses together and burst into laughter.

Screeecch!

We both paused and fell silent along with Jeanette who was now just getting off of the phone. We all looked around confused. What was that noise? We heard a scratchy noise all of a sudden that sounded something almost like static on a TV. It was coming from the speakers tuning out the music that was playing.

"Hello Ladies.", we instantly recognized the voice as our driver through the speakersand relaxed into our seats, " I just wanted to let you know that we are getting closer to the restaurant's grand opening so I'll be out shortly to let you guys out."

"Okaaay!", all of us shouted back at our driver through the partition and me and Destiny casually sipped more of our drinks. She placed her back down onto the tiny counter while I did the opposite and tilted my head back getting every last drop.

Jeanette was laughing from the other seat, " Okay, Brittany thirsty much?" I dropped my head back down licking my lips and setting my glass aside. " I'm gonna need more than a drink to keep me sane tonight."

My heart was thumping loud and racing. The truth was that anything could happen tonight. Anything. This was undoubtedly one of the most hardest things I ever had to do and if things didn't go well over tonight, I was never gonna do something like this for the hope of reconciliation. I was supposed to be at home right now warm in bed or taking another nice relaxing bath. But I can't now, because I'm here.

"You okay, Brit?", I overheard Jeanette say reeling me back from my thoughts, "You seem kind of out of it." The noises from outside were increasing noticeably and I was dreading meeting with the reporters. We were gonna have to make run for it.

"Umm yeah, I'm fine.", she looked as though she didn't believe me frowning instantly. " I told you before, Brittany, I've got your back. We're gonna have a great time tonight, you'll see.", she looked as if she was full of optimistic beliefs but I knew it was because she was delusional of how much crap I had to deal with tonight. All she had to worry about was what she was going to eat. There was much more in store for me and I had to go through. Plus the reporters!

"Maybe when we get back home, we could like take a late night swim if you're not too tired.", she remarked with a smile, "You know, when our pool is set to night mode and have the neon lights come on with all the colors inside the pool."

Destiny dropped her mouth open, "Ohmygosh no way! Does the pool and the waterslides have that effect too? I would totally come over tonight if I wasn't so busy!" Jeanette nodded in agreement and grinned, "Yeap! Nina got it as a surprise for me and Brittany when we got back from our quick weekend getaway in Costa Rica a few months ago."

Destiny rolled her eyes and crossed her arms together, "Oh yeah, and I guess you guys forgot my invite in the mail?", she smiled and me and Jeanette both giggled as the limousine drove further up and I forgot about my problems for a short time. I was beginning to see the cameras and the lights were extremely brighter than they were before. I had to tell Jeanette about the reporters before I forgot.

"You know we're all gonna go somewhere nice soon when we all get a minute.", Jeanette smiled in agreement. "You know how all work and no play makes Brittany a stress ball from hell.", I didn't have time to laugh along with Jeanette and Destiny because after the reporter got done talking to the next round of people, it was going to be our turn to get out. "Um, Jeanette?!", I interrupted fixing my eyes on her. "What? Oh sorry, but still Brittany you know how you get when you're stressed."

"Yeah!", Destiny agreed holding her stomach laughing, " Its almost as bad as you get when you don't get your beauty sleep.", they cracked up laughing all over again and I was beginning to lose it. "Jeanette!", I exclaimed gritting my teeth together. Another screeching sound was soon heard as the music slowly died down for a second time.

'Ahem.', a voice spoke.

' Attention ladies, we are just now pulling up Theodore and Eleanor's new restaurant ''Eccentric Taste" tonight, its been a pleasure driving you ladies.'

Jeanette and Destiny both shared eager excited looks while I gave them a fake smile. I knew I wasn't happy. That was an interesting name for a restaurant though, I wonder how they came up with it.

'And that obviously doesn't include you Destiny. Since you're being dropped off after.'

Her and Jeanette started laughing uncontrollably because our driver usually doesn't get mouthy like that. My paranoia was starting to kicking in. It wasn't that funny. There was much bigger things that I wasn't even fully mentally prepared for! There was no time to laugh!

"Jeanette.", I barked again bringing her back to my previous conversation from earlier, " The reporters?!" She looked slightly confused, "Um yeah, what about them? I think they're the ones from News!Flash! , they're here to televise the whole event.", she paused for a second trying to figure me out from the desperate expression on my face, " Didn't I tell you about the media coming? I know Eleanor was first against it but-

"Oh!", Destiny spoke up getting all excited and bouncing, "Brittany doesn't...like..", her voice trailed off. "Wait...who was it again, Brittany? The reporters?"

" I can't be near them!", I told her, " I didn't know they were gonna be here! They're gonna try and get the latest scoop out of me and I don't know what I'm gonna say!" There gonna ask how close me and my sisters are and how proud we are of her. If I don't give a good answer, they were gonna find out me and Eleanor haven't seen or heard from each other in a long time. And that was gonna spark controversy.

And I was not gonna lose my career and have everybody hate me over something as stupid as this.

"Its only about the restaurant though, right?", even then Jeanette seemed unsure of herself, " They're not even going to...like…-"

I didn't have time for this. The limo was pulling forward again, " They're gonna ask Jeanette.", I began trying to mask the desperation coming out of my voice. She needed to see how seriously this was for me.

Forget about Eleanor for a while, this was serious! "They use events like this to trick you into thinking they were only interested in your thoughts over the whole thing but then they start getting real personal."

"But Brittany-

"You wouldn't want them to start asking about you and Simon, would you?", Destiny smirked and Jeanette instantly had realization written all over her face. Destiny was my girl I swear she always had my back and understood me. Plus she always knew what to say and Jeanette could now see where I was coming from.

"Obviously, we're here trying to have a good time and we don't want them to mess it up before we even get inside.", I declared just in case Jeanette tried to retaliate and make a change of plans. I knew tag teaming her with Destiny was wrong but I didn't care right now. "Just avoid them.", Destiny told us, "There's a bunch of people there so they'll easily be distracted and they're not standing that close to the limo anyway."

Looking out the window where we were, I took sight of the reporters and it was true they weren't exactly in front of us, they were a little further down greeting people as they came forward. "Yeah.", my chest was becoming a little bit lighter and I turned back around, " That sounds good."

Still, Jeanette looked like she was kind of upset, "Brittany, but what if Eleanor is watching this tomorrow and doesn't see us on the news talking about it?" I rolled my eyes at her, "Jeanette really? We're here, right?! That should be enough for her, we can't make everyone happy all the time, sometimes we had to think about ourselves."

She didn't comment, instead she looked like she wanted to say something like before but was choosing not to. I groaned hastily, "Obviously Jeanette, it's just the reporters, do you really think that's gonna get Eleanor upset, we're already here!"

She sighed and looked out the window behind us, " I guess you're right." You bet I am. I patted my auburn curls and ran my fingers through my scalp pulling out my compact and instantly checked my makeup, "How do I look?", I asked no one in particular.

Destiny took me in and smiled, "Like a million bucks." I grinned and pulled Destiny into a hug and squeezed her tight. "Knock em' dead, girl.", she squealed as Jeanette got up and pushed her body onto us joining the hug and we all held each other giggling.

SLAM!

We heard the door from the other side of the partition where the driver was sitting indicating that we was making his way around to come and let us out. Me and Jeanette took deep breaths at the same time, hers more noticeable than mines.

After all this time, it was finally going to happen. I let go as Jeanette and Destiny still stayed locked in a hug rocking slightly, Destiny leaned in and pecked Jeanette on the cheek while she returned the favor, "Eat lots of food for me, Jean!"

She wheeled around to me and stared at what seemed like my lower neck for a while. I looked at her confused for a second, "...What?!" She reached forward and grabbed on my boobs with both hands squeezing and making them bounce up and down.

I got a weird feeling in my chest and started pushing her hands back, "Destiny! Stooop!", she giggled before pulling me into a hug, " It's not my fault they're so freaking huge! No wonder Alvin likes you so much." I rolled my eyes not wanting to believe it. That better not be the only reason he liked me.

She kissed me on the cheek, "Okay I love you guys , have fun and try the shrimp for me!"

"I'll be sure to eat for two: me and you, Destiny.", Jeanette replied with a giggle and Destiny moved to the other side of the limo and stretched her legs out grinning and bouncing while we saw the driver make his way to our door.

"When we get out, we'll fake and do the usual smile and wave", Jeanette explained while I listened eagerly. Good, now she was coming off of her guilt trip and seeing the big picture "...Then we can make our way left through the crowd of people and look for Eleanor before any of the reporters can see us." I nodded slowly.

This was going to be tough. How exactly were we going to slip through unnoticed judging by how well known we were? Even walking through the streets of LA or airports was a hassle because there was literally a swarm of people trying to simply get a glimpse of me. Jeanette became nearly equally as well-known but only by mere association. I guess we would just have to find out.

Everything was beginning to move in slow motion. The driver was probably making his way towards us at normal speed, but I saw him instead moving at a slow and steady pace. None of this seemed real. Were we all really about to meet altogether for the first time in….how long? It just didn't seem right. It didn't seem like it would ever get to this.

If someone told me that in a few years, I'd be solo along with the boys and we were separated doing our own thing never really having time to hang out altogether unless it was a huge moment like this, I'd say to the hell with that. Like seriously? This is how we all 'hang out' now?! At grand openings? None of this seemed right. I was beginning to see how this was no ordinary grand opening celebration, it was the anniversary of a well overdue reunion.

I never thought it would all come down to this.

Three…

"We're going to have so much fun!", Jeanette squealed towards me clapping her hands happily slightly copying Destiny's previous bouncy behavior. The driver was standing in front of the door now with his hand on the handle preparing to open it.

The breath was coming out of my mouth slowly. In and out. My heart was thumping loudly. The noise was deafening and the lights were blinding. I breathed in. It was exhilarating.

Two…

"You ready, Brittany?!", Jeanette amplified her gaze at me, her tanned features gleaming and her violet eyes begging me to share her excitement with her. I knew I wanted to, but the thrill of a five star event was getting to me. The thrill of it all was unexplainable. There was excitement, and there was fear. Along with tension. I breathed out again.

One….

A voice boomed through the limousine doors , "And here they are…." A loud eruption of cheers roared as the door flew open and a blinding light and instant camera flashes met us like a roaring flame. It was finally time.


I couldn't take my eyes off of it. Theo's and Eleanor's restaurant...it was gorgeous. It was a large and massive building that was lit up with an array of golds and tans illuminating its entire presence like a royal monument. It was complete with a large fountain right in the center where an angel statue was pouring down water and letting it cascade down the fountain.

At the top center, the words 'Eccentric Taste' were written in cursive and the entire restaurant had a series of large, wide, and elegant windows with a few balconies that held arrangements of flowers along with the spacious front patio we were on along with exotic palm trees adding elegant atmosphere to the area.

It was one of the greatest building establishments I had like ever seen... I was actually glad that I came. Before I could make sense of anything else, a set of cameras flashed loud and bright in my eyes and it was time to get on the move. The reporters were already seeing the next group of people off from up head and I bet they were going to try and get our attention and see if we'll make our way towards them.

Flash!

Flash!

The rush of the media was almost too much. Lights flashed and bounced off the cameras and onto us while people were constantly being pushed back by paid bodyguards in order to keep the commotion together.

Why were all of these people here?! They couldn't have all gotten invites. Maybe they were just here to see who actually got to show up because from what I could see, there was a crowd up ahead toward the entrance that was waiting to go inside.

I sensed Jeanette near me somewhere, but seem to find her over the buzz of the ongoing screams and grabbing I was getting from people. My paranoia was starting to kick in, I hope she didn't forget about our plan. Instantly, I felt Jeanette's hand grab mine and yanked me left fast and hard through the crowd right before the reporters could turn to see who had exited the limo.

Throughout it all, I scanned the blur of the crowd for a flash of red and maybe a cap, but was instead met with the flash of a camera blinding me for a second. Blinking hurriedly, I went with my instincts and simply let my heels carry me away wherever Jeanette was trying to take me.

"Jeanette I hope you know your way around this place!", I told her over the roar of the people screaming and shouting talking loudly over each other. There were cameras everywhere pointing at us indicating that we were indeed the main attraction.

She glanced at me grinning eagerly nearly tripping over herself getting me up the small staircase ignoring all of the shouts and hollers of people calling my name over and over again. I know it was rude to ignore everyone talking but I just couldn't deal with reporters. Not today.

People were constantly grabbing my arms along with Jeanette trying to pull on us and ask us questions and desperately reach out in a pathetic attempt to touch us. I wish I had my own bodyguards here and in on our plan to swat them away for us.

"Brittanyyy! Over here!"

"Ohmygosh, its really them!"

This should've been a private event. I don't even know why all of these commoners are here, could they have possibly even afforded reservations?! Jeanette and I swiped left and then dashed right. We were bumping and running into people all over the place.

"Do you see any of the reporters?!", I asked frantically trying to dodge more bodies and peer my head over everyone and see if any of the media were in sight.

Flash! Flash!

A bunch of gasps were heard along with people smiling in astonishment upon seeing me for the first time in person. There were actually quite a few well-known people that I was beginning to recognize over the holler of the crowd.

"Jeanette!", I yelled at her trying to get her attention for a second time. These heels were beginning to kill me, ugh I should've just went and got a massage instead of coming to begin with! All this running was just too much.

We ran up another small flight of stairs before slowing down and walking slowly trying to ignore everyone's shocked reactions and impressed expressions as they took a good look at the both of us for the first time. People were whispering to each other and trying to wave their phones at us seeing if they could get a picture with us, but I pretended to ignore them.

Jeanette and I were each looking all around us while panting and taking deep breaths. "Do you think we lost them?", she asked hesitantly still trying to give a half-hearted smile and wave to those who were excited to see us. I very sheepishly did the same not wanting to be here any longer.

"There's the entrance!", I looked from afar and caught sight of the wide entrance that was blocked with a set of guards. "Ohh…", Jeanette sighed and her voice deflated like a balloon. She held a small disgusted grimace, "Ugh...I guess we can't get inside yet, Brit."

"Brittany! Brittany I love you!"

"Over here you guys...you guys?!"

"Jeanette, you're so gorgeous!"

"Jeanette, we have to go somewhere else, we'll never be able to deal with the press. Where's Theo and the rest?!", I scolded myself for rhyming unconsciously, I hated when I did that. But when I was writing a hit, it didn't happen that fast. I glanced around frantically but I couldn't see much with the loud, bright lights.

"I don't know. The boys should already be here.", she led me up more as we hid and ducked behind some more people dropping our heads and then peering over to see if the coast was clear, " Do you see them?"

My stomach was doing flips and another camera flashed in my face. This was a little much. Above I saw a clear set of four white-gold stars on the top of the sign and could see that the restaurant was clearly two stories high.

Another flash knocked me out of my daze. Gosh, we couldn't even get a minute because the flashes wouldn't stop, they were going nonstop flickering and halfway blinding us. We ducked over another set of bodies up towards the main entrance, I could tell we were getting closer. I could see the guards and the whole crowd of people didn't appear to be getting shorter.

Ugh, this would be so much easier if Alvin wasn't coming.

Or maybe he won't come! Maybe I could hope and pray really hard and poof. He'll realize that he had much better things to do than be here and he should be telling his driver to make a U-turn now.

Okay...that calmed me down a bit.

Me and Jeanette looked around but right when we turned around, we saw and immediately recognized some big top well-known chefs and food judges from the culinary channels. This is actually something that I'm not actually ashamed of, but I actually do not mind watching the food channels, even though I don't cook, they were actually fun to watch.

Plus, it was cool to know that people could still become so popular and famous just by being interested in food. Clearly, Eleanor was on the dang near on the same level of fame as I was. Not as popular as me, but on the right track. She won't be getting more popular than me though, that's for sure.

Before we knew it. "Crap.", both me and Jeanette said at the same time. A few well-known people made eye-contact with us and we making their way towards us.

We looked at each other desperately before redirecting our attention back at a few of the people giving them our best smile even though we'd rather be anywhere else. Sooner or later, half of the crowd caught sight of us and followed.

Yeah, the perks of being famous while trying to get around anonymously wasn't exactly going as planned.

They all greeted us along with other people giving us hugs and asking about us and Eleanor. We very hesitantly tried to respond accordingly, but out of the corner of my eye, I spotted camera people moving in all sorts of directions.

While half of the crowd caught eye of Jeanette , the majority had their eyes on me. "So you're the pop diva Brittany ?!", one of them asked and I forced myself to smile and pushed my hair back trying to to hide my flattery. " Hottest thing in the industry, huh?", another one stated and everyone all around begin talking to me all at once.

I straightened up and tried to ignore the fear built within my soul and tried to respond as confidently as I could to the crowd while I answered their questions and tried to remain as polite as possible.

How Jeanette was able to do this, I'll never know. I grabbed Jeanette's hand sharply and gave her an impatient gesture with a fake smile, "Um, Jean?!...", I tilted my head and pointed with my eyes the opposite direction.

She nodded and continued to smile at the big TV stars and fellow famous people with the business owners and other guests who now weren't hiding the fact that we were really wanting to get to know us. Its not everyday that we just appeared out in the open.

Where were my bodyguards when I needed them?! Had this been a private event, this wouldn't have happened! But, I didn't have time to deal with it right now. I cut them all off in mid sentence, "Sorry guys, we'll have to catch up with you later! See you inside!", I finished all in one breath before leading Jeanette away from all of them.

I knew it was rude, but I didn't care right now. I pushed my way through the crowd, I did not have time for fans and my head was throbbing. I was beginning to regret this. The wind was getting to me and the chill of the air wasn't helping. The cold air was making my cheeks extremely cold and I couldn't wait to get inside.

I was pushing and bumping into people not even having time to see their hateful or shocked expressions. Jeanette was breathing hard again along with me, "Now we just have to try and find where Ellie is." Something wasn't right, I felt like we weren't going the wrong way. We were getting closer to the front of the place but I felt like something was off. Like someone was coming. Maybe it was my paranoia again.

Jeanette was starting to slow down and turned around to see if anyone was coming after us or looking at us suspiciously, "We should be getting closer, the guards will probably let us in if we a-

"...from Pop News standing outside waiting for Eleanor's sisters to show up and heeeere they are!", a news reporter announced out of nowhere gesturing towards us and instantly the camera flashes grew brighter and brighter as they were directed towards us.

I felt like I wanted to die, are you serious?! Where did they come from. I whipped my head to the side to see Jeanette with the same facial expression as me.

Chills ran up my spine as a camera was planted nearly two feet away from me and Jean along with a happy go lucky male reporter who was grinning like he just won the lottery. He knew he had the scoop of a lifetime just by catching me and Jeanette off guard right out of nowhere.

And there was nowhere to run.

"I guess it'll just be best to get it over with, Brit.", Jeanette stood upright and told me through gritted teeth shyly waving at the cameras. Crap, what was I going to say? I knew something like this was going to happen!

I straightened up and gulped trying to pull some thoughts and words together, but every time I got something in my head another flash knocked me out of my daze.

"So, Brittany and Jeanette…," the male reporter shoved the microphone in our faces before we could say anything, " You and your sisters must be very close I should say." We both looked at each other and Jeanette instantly nodded and gulped indicating that she would take over the questions.

"Oh yeah, Yeah. W-we are extremely close, we talk all the time..", Jeanette gave me a fake smile that I eagerly returned for the sake of the cameras, " Yeah um…-

" So are you two excited to be apart of your sister's success? I mean this restaurant deal wasn't supposed to be established for quite some time and there's no way that it came over night.", he went on ignoring the camera flashing all around him like it wasn't the least bit bothering him. The heavy, intense sound of the people didn't even seem to bother him either as it was bothering us.

I cleared my voice and waited for Jeanette to say something. She looked down and around struggling to get the words out so I attempted a light chuckle before responding, "We are...very excited about her success and we are grateful to be apart of it."

"But, what about Eleanor?", he pressed on urgently still not hiding his smile and pressing the microphone even more closer to our faces, "We've heard from an inside source that you and her don't exactly talk that much anymore. What do you have to say to that?!" I caught my breath in my throat and my eyes nearly popped out of my soul. "Wh-what are you talking abou-

Flash!

I blinked rapidly. Oh no! They're gonna get a shot of that and put it in tomorrow's headlines! There was no stopping it, he knew what he was doing and it was working. I wanted to curse Jeanette for even assuming that reporters had our best interest, they were only out to get us. Uggghh I should've just stayed home! How were we supposed to leave, we were cornered now!

"We...uhh…", I began

"So is that true? Are you guys not talking?!", he went onwards clearly liking the response I was giving him but I couldn't let him get any more shots of me like that, at this rate, I was gonna be on the tabloids tomorrow! The microphone was pressed up into my face even further, "I-I u-uhh-

"Attention everyone!", a voice announced from afar, " Eccentric Taste is now open to the public!" My insides instantly felt relieved and the reporter's faced looked pissed off as he now knew that his precious plan has failed. With a new bursting rush of entitlement, I casually took Jeanette's hand and led us towards the main entrance along with the rest of the crowd.

Hmmph, that's what he gets for messing with us. I did not have time for that.

I shook and pulled myself together as we pushed past more people and strolled up to the main entrance. People poured into the doorways and it took us a second before we were able to get in.

"Are you excited?", Jeanette asked me as I tried to forget the situation that just happened earlier. I really hoped one of those shots wouldn't be on tomorrow's magazine covers.

We inched ourselves closer and closer to the entrance and I wiped the sweat off my brow, "Let's just get this over with.", I flipped my hair over and felt it hit my waist trying to ignore the flirtatious eyes and starstruck looks from the people all around me.

Yeah note to Brittany, never go somewhere else without bodyguards, it was clear agony.


Right when we got in, I very hesitantly glanced at Jeanette wondering how we were all going to sit? She took notice, "We are all going to be sitting at the same table so we need to wait for the boys to get here and then someone will lead us to our table." I looked around. If this restaurant already didn't scream elegance, then I didn't know what did.

Golds, tans, and black everywhere. The host room was enormous and still scarcely had enough space for the entire crowd. There was a long front desk almost like the ones that are in the hotels with over ten or more hosts separating groups and leading them to tables. From what I could see, the halls led into what seemed like a giant ballroom. .

There were an exquisite decor that consisted of many fancy decorated tables with a large stage I could see from afar. Probably for musicians and space for everyone to dance. I could see a series of fancy crystal chandeliers just like the one in my room, only this time there were many, brightly illuminating the main room. There were only three in here and the ceiling was very tall above us and there were wall lamps also made out of crystal and pearl.

Jeanette shared my fascination. Even though there were many people around us, it seemed like it was just the two of us marveling at how far we've all came. Smiling at Jeanette, I saw that her eyes were slightly damp. She sniffed, " You guys…", she glanced at the ground to wipe away a tear with a smile, " I'm just so happy for you guys for doing so well...Ms. Miller would be so proud…", she voice trailed off and her smile diminished a bit, "...proud of you guys."

"No, Jeanette.", I cut her off and pulled her into an embrace, " Ms. Miller would've been proud of all of us. You're gonna get your time soon enough." She didn't say much for a second. All of a sudden, she pulled me tighter, "Thank you, Brittany.", she whispered softly.

"And don't I get a hug too?", a voice creeped up behind us.

We both jumped up in surprise and looked to see who it was. All dressed up in a black blazer, black slacks with a formal dark blue shirt was Simon looking as handsome as ever. "Simon?!", me and Jeanette exclaimed at the same time pulling him into a hug. I let go and we each shared an individual hug and I noticed Jeanette lingered on Simon a little longer than usual, no surprise there. She was undeniably excited and I could see it all over her face with her cheeks tinted pink.

I never was one to admit it out loud, but Simon really had grown into his features. He was definitely handsome as ever and it looked like he knew it. His glasses were even a more updated jet black type that I recognized as a designer brand. He was dressed to the nines and after all these years, all the love him and Jeanette had for each other was still written all over their faces.

They pulled away still smiling and Simon took us in, " Wow...you both look too stunning." We thanked him and nodded grinning from ear to ear. "Simon, it's really great to see you, honestly like I haven't seen you in forever!"

I folded my hands politely in front of me similar to Jeanette from earlier. Maybe it was Simon's demeanor that made her like this. Just like a certain someone who makes me wanna burn this entire city down. I quickly turned around trying to peek if he was here yet when I saw no sign I let out a deep breath.

"Yeah, it's been a minute.", he chuckled lightly, " Fortunately, Jeanette has told me about all the things you've been accomplishing over the years. We're really proud of you." I blushed slightly taking in the compliment, " Thank you, really. It means a lot. "

" So what do you guys think of this place right?!", Simon asked looking from side to side around the host room and into the enormous main room in amazement. " Yes, its unbelievable…", Jeanette admitted and sighed happily, " I just can't wait to eat." We all burst out laughing and I couldn't help but agree, " That'll probably be the best part of the night!"

"Everything's going to be fantastic.", Jeanette giggled as we saw the many fancy dressed hosts and hostesses escort people to their seats and tables. I felt butterflies in my stomach. My stomach shook and I took another well needed breath. I needed to calm down and relax. Everything was going to be fine.

Right?

" I had no idea that this many people were going to be invited.", Simon admitted and I eagerly nodded, "Uhh, yeah! It seems like all of Los Angeles got invited!" He chuckled before responding, "I think most of these people were invited and others were the ones that helped Theo and Eleanor when they were just discovering their talents."

"Ah. So they're not fans.", I confirmed to myself and put one hand on my hip looking up at him. "Not in the least. Unless they're all fancy dressed homeless people.", he snickered and Jeanette playfully hit him, "Hey, that's not nice!" We all laughed while the hosts led groups and groups of people in and out of the room. It was still pretty loud in here and many people held their phones up trying to record or take pictures of the place.

Jeanette peered down one of the long hallways before turning back to us, "I think that's where the bathrooms are. I'm going to go and then I'll be right back!" Me and Simon casually nodded before turning back to each other as she scurried down a separate hall.

Once she had disappeared from our sight, he leaned into me and whispered, " Is it bad to say that the food is what honestly led me here tonight?" I felt like a giant lead balloon was released from my spirit and I instantly relaxed, "Honestly that's what made me change my mind!", I replied and we both cracked up laughing clutching our stomachs.

" No, no. I really wanted to come, I just got caught up at the studio." "Oh!", I looked up in realization trying to ignore the pain of standing in heels for so long after running earlier, " You're making an album?", I asked and he shook his head firmly.

"Ah, no. Jeanette didn't tell you?", he seemed genuinely surprised. I looked dumbfounded and crossed my arms, " Told me what?"

He smiled at me warmly, " I'm a movie director's apprentice." At that my mouth dropped in both happiness and surprise, " Simon!", I pulled him into the brief hug and squeezed him, " When did you decide to become one?! That's awesome!" he chuckled again rocking me slightly before we both pulled away.

" I guess I've always been drawn to the whole 'behind-the-scenes' aspects of the movie industry, so I decided to pursue it." You could practically see the stars in my eyes right now. This meant my connections to the movie industry was definitely increasing. "Which movie production agency do you belong to?", I asked pulling question my auburn curls over my shoulder and tilting my head in question.

"I'm not sure yet. I'm working and studying with Spielberg, Burton, and a few others.", Excitement was written all over my face and I shook my head in amazement as he continued, " I already completed a few college courses now I'm just doing everything hands-on. They actually let me work on the movies with them, too actually. I should be finished with my work soon though, then I'll be a certified director or producer."

!

"Okaaay, okaaay!", I almost laughed at myself. I was seriously sounding like a chick trying to get a part in a movie, "Simon I am very impressed. I'm so excited for you! I seriously thought you we're going to become some boring old professor."

He ran his hand through his hair and rolled his eyes jokingly, " Funny, that's what both Theo and the other one said." I choked on a laugh, " I like that term. 'The other one.' ", I crossed my arms back together and managed to let out a few giggles. " I figured as much, that's why I chose my words carefully.", he crossed his arms and gave me a small wink.

I shook my head with a smile. Yes, Simon had definitely grown over the years. He always had that silent confidence and gentlemanly behavior about him. Had I took advantage of this years ago, I'm not gonna lie, he could've been mine. But, I didn't usually go for nerds! I was into bad boys.

He was always there to hear me rant on my…'boy issues'. Hey, hot nerds turned me on, though! I know we could've made it work too, or maybe it was my ego that forbid it. But at the end of the day, I couldn't imagine seeing the pain and anguish on my sister's face. So it's best that we simply stayed where we were were. With the silent acknowledgement and respect for another.

I wanted to ask him about his relationship with Alvin these past few years. Had they grown closer, had they grown apart? I wasn't sure. Maybe it was best if I kept my mouth shut. I knew I didn't want him to return the question.

"So, looks like I wasn't invited to you guys little heart to heart?", a voice called out and I peered over Simon to see Dave dressed up all in formal black attire casually walking towards us.

"Dave?!", I shrieked and threw my arms around him. His embrace was warm and he was equally as happy to see me. He pulled away before taking me in, "Wow Brittany, I really can't believe it's you! You're really grown up now."

I stepped back blushing slightly. A few tiny discreet specs of gray here and there but Dave still had his jet black hair and his refined mannerisms. He ruffled Simon's hair and earned a playful punch in return.

" I told you I'd be at the front, Dave.", Simon told him with a smile before smoothing out his hair where Dave had messed with it. "Yeah well judging by the size of this place, the back is equally as big as the front."

I almost froze as that simple phrase brought back a very suppressed memory where Alvin made that same reference towards me after jumping around his house singing the...What was it?... "Big Butts and I Cannot Lie" song?! I groaned to myself. I thought I had forgotten all about that.

" So, Brittany.", Dave began, " It seems like you have just strolled straight up to the top of the industry in a couple of years, how does it feel?" I laughed to myself, " If I didn't know any better, I'd say you sound like those crappy reporters I just got done with from outside."

At that, him and Simon both laughed and I joined in. "Oh I wasn't trying to!", he explained and I giggled again, " I'm just kidding, it feels great! Maybe you could do both of us a favor and make sure your son keeps from being my rival."

His laughter died down and he looked serious all of a sudden, "Oh I would if I could. I haven't been Alvin's manager since he decided to go solo.", Dave reluctantly admitted.

You could practically feel the shock erupting off of my features. Dave wasn't Alvin's manager anymore? And he hasn't been in how long?! This…'family reunion' though was getting to be more twisted than ever.

First, Simon was on his way to directing movies and now Dave hasn't been around to manage Alvin?! Then who was? I couldn't believe Dave had even allowed that. Not with how protective he could be sometimes. If he was even that way anymore.

"Wow.", I couldn't help but say out loud, " I had no idea." Dave almost looked like he didn't want to talk about it but dove in anyway, " Yeah well...Alvin's growing up y'know...It's time I let him make his own decisions and he wanted to do things his way so…", he ended his explanation with a shrug, "Kids have to be free to make their own decisions."

Simon noticed my expression, "I know, I never thought I'd hear it from him either." Dave shrugged again with a smile that looked almost sad. I could tell it was hard for him, I knew how much he loved the boys and seeing them grow up was beginning to take his toll.

"You're growing up though, Dave!" I laughed trying to lighten the mood, " Anyone could see that you look younger by letting the boys do their own thing and keeping them out of your hair." At that he managed to smile along with Simon, "I guess I can't argue with that." I smirked to myself, see I wasn't always the wicked witch of the west. I do good things too!

"Speaking of which, did you come here by yourself?", Dave asked, "How come I don't see-

"I'm right here!", Jeanette exclaimed over the shout of the people from all around us. She scooted around others and managed to crash Dave into a hug before laughing it all off. " Don't knock Dave down, Jean. You'll be as rambunctious as Alvin is after one too many energy drinks." Dave chuckled and turned to us all, " So are you two dating yet?"

" No.", I lied. Everyone looked toward me and started laughing. I was confused.

"What?!"

"He was talking about me and Jeanette.", Simon answered smirking at me and I was noticeably embarrassed yet again tonight.

I frowned and hoped and prayed inwardly my face wasn't red again, " Well, my apologies then, I guess I got a little mixed up." I tried to calm my heart down and give it a break. First the limo situation and now this?! How could one guy possibly get me feeling this way all day?! I just don't get it!

Jeanette blushed and looked down slightly shaking her head 'no' to Dave as Simon spoke up, "We are only friends, Dave. Just friends." Dave and him started chuckling, " I just like to make sure I'm on top of everything, Si. I just like to be informed, that's all."

Phew, close call.

"On second thought, where is Alvin exactly?", Dave asked looking at his watch checking the time while Simon pulled out his phone to do the same, "Well, you know how late Alvin is." Jeanette nodded and took Simon's arm leaning into him, "Or how LA traffic is.", she added.

The host room had nearly cleared up and the last round of people were being escorted to their tables. I had a smug expression on my face and began to smooth out my hair. "He just texted me.", Simon alerted us and we all perked up wanting to hear, "He said something came up, if he gets done, he'll come."

Or not.

"Well, well, well….what do we have here?", yet another male voice called from nearby us. I raised my eyebrows in surprise upon seeing who it was.

Eleanor and Theodore were linked together arm in arm walking towards us together. I'll admit, they looked really good tonight. She had on a long, halter-top dark green dress that went down to her ankles and her hair went down just past her chest in medium length curls and waves. Theodore mimicked Simon's black blazer and slacks and instead had on a formal green dress shirt.

I gnawed on my bottom lip. Can the pound in my chest be any louder?! Theodore reached out and hugged us everyone while Eleanor did the same. When he got to me, he squeezed me real tight, "I'm so glad you could make it!" I sighed in his embrace, even though me and Eleanor had our issues, he still had no problem associating with me. That was an intense relief, but then again Theodore was never one to simply not like someone because somebody else didn't.

"Yeess! Me too! You guys know I wouldn't miss out on the food event of a lifetime.", everyone started laughing while Eleanor stayed silent, almost noticeably trying to avoid eye contact. She honestly didn't even attempt to hug me.

Hmph, really? All this and she was still going to stay silent. I tried to keep my gaze on her while the others greeted each other excitedly but all she did was try to basically ignore me. Unh, unh. No I wasn't going to have this. All that I went through today and no acknowledgement?

"Um, hey Eleanor?!", I greeted above everyone's chatter seeing that the host room was clear and we were the last group. She turned and gave me a very small, noticeably fake smile and muttered a small, "Hey.", like she didn't know me or even wanted to.

I raised my brows in surprise. Okay. Whatever. Y'know what? I don't care! I'm still going to have a good time while she keeps her attitude. Two years and this is what I get? She needs to get over it!

By that time, one of the male hosts came over and notified us, that our table was ready. Good, by the way I was seeing it the night had only begun but I couldn't wait for it to be over.


As if I didn't say it already, I had to say it again. The interior of this place...the layout? The place did not seem real. The golds, creams, browns?! The place screamed elegance. From the crystal chandeliers scattered around the place to the way the layout curved and made such an exquisite and cozy scene.

There were was giant, large cylinders that hung down from the ceilings and touched the ground giving the place a royal touch. I looked around and the second story of tables seemed to tell the same story. Everyone all around us seemed to share the fascination and Theodore and Eleanor seemed to be humbly soaking it up from everyone around us, if that was even possible to be so gracious when you literally owned all of this.

"Ouch!", I shrieked upon bumping into a chair. I stopped and looked up to see that this was our table. Right in the center of the whole room. Where everyone could see us. I gasped in shock but when I turned around, I didn't see any cameras in here so it appeared like I didn't have anything to worry about. Well, let's just see how that goes.

At the table, Dave seated himself on the end while Theo and Eleanor stood up and went to the giant stage. I took notice that the two empty seats on the other side were their seats. Simon sat next to their seats, while Jeanette sat on the edge with me on the other side next to her. That could only mean...the blood rushed from my face at the empty seat next to me. I swallowed as I sat down.

That could only mean one thing…

Second turned into minutes while Theodore and Eleanor took turns going back in forth on the microphone talking about how they both got started with the idea of making their dream come true. Who would've thought that the name 'Eccentric Taste' came from the E and T of their first initials?

I tried not to but I couldn't help but bit my lip in the middle of their speech, was he coming or not?! I couldn't stay this worried forever! I breathed and tried to relax.

"...and that's why we wanted to thank you all so much for making the time to come. All of you may have had other things to do, but it means the world that you are here to share this moment with us today. We hope you all enjoy everything here tonight.", Eleanor finished. I couldn't help but think that previous comment was about me. Yes I had better things to do, like being asleep!

" And we hope you aren't only enjoying it because there is no fee tonight." Theodore finished while the whole room hollered with laughter. Finally, she and Theo both took a small bow while everyone applauded them as they returned to our table.

" I am so proud of you guys.", Dave said shaking his head in astonishment, "Really, I am." Theodore seemed to really soak up Dave's approval along with Eleanor grinning from ear to ear and everyone at the table sent their regards including myself.

Still, Eleanor acted as though I wasn't even here. I rolled my eyes. Who cares, as long as Alvin's not here, I was free to loosen up.

"So, looks like there's really a full house here, huh?", I said to no one in particular but still kept my focus on Eleanor seeing if she would reply. "Yeah!", Theo agreed looking around with a smile, "I mean nobody knew that the food here on this night only was gonna be free, but it was worth the surprise."

Simon nodded and laughed, " That would've meant we would have the entire city in here tonight." Everybody laughed and agreed as a band of musicians casually made their way onto the stage. I blinked and looked at Eleanor, but she casually ignored me.

I cocked my eyebrow at Jeanette and she got the message nodding and cleared her throat loudly enough for Eleanor to hear. Eleanor shyly looked over at Jeanette and pressed her lips into a frown and glanced at me, " Yeah, that's why we knew we needed to have a second floor, for the rest."

"Will more people come tonight?", I asked even seeing as though every seat was filled on both floors all around us, " I don't know.", she blankly responded. I was very tempted to roll my eyes but I calmly took a breather and tried to ignore her sharp answers. "It was too bad Linda couldn't make it tonight.", she spoke over the chatter of everyone in the room.

"Who?", I asked, but she rolled her eyes.

" Oh, you probably haven't met her.", Theodore stated giving me a warm smile, " She's Ellie's guardian." Dave took notice, " I actually ran into her today while I went with Simon on our way to Fox Studios today, she said she had to housekeep for another rich family's kids tonight while the parents go out of town."

At that, Eleanor nodded, " Yeah, it was last minute too and nannies are more needed to little kids than to teens." I instantly thought to Nina. Come to think of it, I never much heard about any other families she was in charge of. She was always here when we needed her.

The conversation seemed to be going towards everyone and right past me because I couldn't ignore the nervous feeling that was ignited inside me. The seat next to me was empty. And nobody seemed to care! That means if he shows up, he was going to be right...here!

I groaned rubbing my head. Everyone continued to catch up on current interests and future plans, along with the International Music Awards last night. I tried to make small talk, but I couldn't help but feel so...out of it. I felt away from the conversation because I couldn't hear much of anything except the sound of my own heartbeat.

"...Brittany…..time…", I heard a voice say. I furrowed my brows together and looked up, "H-huh?", I asked nervously gulping hoping nobody could see the pressure on my face. Eleanor instantly perked up, " I said I know Alvin is always late, I'm surprised you're actually hear on time."

I could see the apprehensible fear imprinted on Jeanette's face as she instantly saw me cock my brow up. The whole table got a little quieter despite the noise of everyone else all around us. Just who did she think she was talking to? Is that how she wants to play it?

"Yeah, looks like tonight seems like a perfect place for us all to have a... 'first'", I replied sarcastically still glaring at her deadly with a fire in my chest. I shrugged arrogantly, " Your restaurant, my arrival...First time for everyone.", I shot back, my brow still raised. I swear if she was gonna think she could go there with me, she has the wrong one.

Seriously? All that silence and now she wants to grow a pair?!

"Well, you can't honestly get mad at me for being shocked. I honestly don't remember you ever being an early bird.", she replied as if I didn't faze her and flipped her hair back.

The record company event flashed through my face as I slowly begun to get up, " Why don't you let me remind you, you prissy looking…-

Gasp!

Many gasps were heard all around us as I saw Theo put a hand on Ellie to calm her down. I slowly sat back down and wondered why all eyes in the room were staring behind me toward the host room and the main entrance.

Everybody seemed focused on something. The females diagonally across from us looked like they had stars in their eyes and every guy around us both younger and older looked extremely impressed.

I was confused, I cautiously looked from side to side wondering why everyone's attention seemed to be focused elsewhere, but nobody at my table seemed to notice as Dave, Simon, Jeanette, Theo, and Eleanor were all deep back into their conversations laughing and talking nonetheless. Was I the only one seeing this?

"Wait...how come…?", I asked myself. What was going on? It was almost as if someone…

I felt a presence around me. Soon everyone at the tables all around slowly began to get louder and louder as they turned more towards me and the scent of a husky manly cologne elapsed around me filled with amber wood and exotic musk.

The presence instantly turned me on. Before I could turn around to see who it was, a cocky voice whispered right behind me near my ear confirming one of my deepest desires and one of my worst nightmares.

"You miss me?", Alvin asked.


~**Author's Note!**~

Well, he's finally here! In person! And he will continue ta be. #Trust I wanna thank you guys for being sooo PATIENT!

SEE! I told you guys I'd update earlier! Last time, it was Nov 10th, my birthday, now its like uhh...Dec 9th, see?! *Flips hair* And you guys thought I'd let you down! Hell nah! 1 day earlier! Man I have a headache right now and I haven't eaten, I was actually going to be done with this next week, but I calmly typed out the last 10 pages today! Aaaaand now I'm finished! Hope yall lalaloooooved it!

PLEASE do not hesitate to tell me what ya'll think. AND if you like what you've read, drop me a line (review). PLEEEASE, I love em'!

XoxTristinaDuhhhh!xoX