~*Author's Pathetic Attempt of a Note!*~

Guys...author-dearest (me) was kicked out for spending the night at a friends house…I'm literally living with a co-worker as of right now. That's why this chapter took forever. I HAVE BEEN SO BUSY WITH LIFE I JUST HATE THAT I MADE U GUYS WAIT SO LONG! 4 months…?

I'm so sorry...

*TEARS*

Please dont hate mee..

BTW : Most used word in reviews from the last chapter: INTENSE


To my Rockers below !

FireandFury796- Wasn't it like a great ball of fire?! I'm soo glad you stayed up to read it! Are you like not allowed to use the computer late at night? Do they like work late or something? OMG you live in London?! I have a friend that is from there, Im soooo jealous! I hope you liked the chapter! Sorry I made you wait so long for this one.

Kali101- I thought you stopped liking my story and up and left ahahaha! I'm so glad your back. Just remember I haven't forgot about A&B but this is a different kind of story, the moments will come, you just have to be patient. Yes, its interesting, his behavior. He is a solo artist now and at the tender age of mid teens, so with all that attention...yeah that should spell it out for you. O just don't want to write a typical story with the characters acting typically the same. It's different and I like it. But, don't worry, they'll get their time soon enough...eventually.

Alvin'sBaby80- Yeah, it was the toughest chapter I had ever written, I even had to play creepy music in the background to get into the mood! I'm so glad you liked it, hope u enjoy this one too.

PippELulu- I HOPE I WONT HAVE TO PAY YOUR MEDICAL BILLS! Why does everyone keep saying that? Let Eleanor come and live with them...like whyyy. Don't you just love the 50 million bits of drama. I love the confusion in the reviews :D She drank the lemonade! You can throw up drinks! Why is everyone so bothered hahahaha! Sorry again waifu, I made you wait forever and Im SOO SORRY

LoveSwanCaptainChipmunks- Isn't it crazy what fame does to people? I mean BULIMIA? Who knew that even the strongest member of the group could fall the hardest, and poor Jeanette! Just think of it this way Mariah Carey's sister life ended before it even started . Pregnant at 16 Prostitute soon after. Meanwhile her sister is making millions and living the dream life while she struggles. Granted she brought it on herself b/c Mariah tried to help her and send her to rehab and take care of kids that weren't even hers, but all the sister cared about was being high and prostituting. Seeing your sister live the life you always wanted and living in her shadow will do. a. number. on. Anybody. Especially if you had issues with yourself from the beginning. That's kinda how this is portrayed. I'm so glad you enjoyed it. Yeah, the ending was a lil different, but I couldn't just make it typical. I'll be sure to keep yo comments in mind though xD And that makeup though! Girl, like whatrtheygonnadoooo?

MistyZshi- OMG only they parlez francais?! What happened to the rest of you guys?! Omg well at least yall speak english! Please dont be mad at me for the wait I'm soooryyy! ALL of you guys said it was intense! Maybe we should make a movie ! :D Its not juuust about A&B , I must include everybody else! Yeah, I didn't want to make the ending typical, sooo yeah xD I'm so glad u liked it xDD FORGIVE MEE FOR THA WAIT!

Hot Chips Are Love- This chapter was dark af . PLEASE FORGIVE ME FOR THE LONG WAIT! Yeah seeing a sibling make it to the top where u wanted to be while u sit and suffer will destroy anyone. Most people don't get to see things from that POV, I had to squeeze it in there xD Yeah 50 pages is like….10 essays hahahaa! Thank u so much, I try I try xDD

Eden Blessing- It waaaaassss it wwassss! And I was listening to creepy music while I wrote the dang thing! Crap just kept popping into my head thats why it was sooo long! Yeah...you guys have been soo patient I just love it xD PLEASE FORGIVE ME FOR THA WAIT! I hope I won't have to pay any med bills! All of everyone shaking and stuff! BREATHE GIRL BREATHE.

Aerial Myth- I try girl I try, but I am so sorry I kept you waiting! Nobody likes Alvin and his cocky self and I don't know why xDD jkjk yeah when u get fame and fortune as a teenager...it does things to you . Thank you, I like the different kind of relationship, its makes things more interesting , huh. Jeanette just bears the burden of the whole familia! This whole story is a complete disaster, thats why it must continue! LOVE U TOO!

White Lava Pearl- GEEZ GIRL YOU SOUND LIKE BRITTANY! Hahahaha! Just kidding (kinda) anyway I am soooo sorry for the excruciatingly long wait! I feel sooo guilty! Isn't that the price of fame though? xD Causes so much conflict, especially inside of a family .Thanks girl! And once again, sooo sorry :,(

Princess of Oneshots- It was alright to me honestly. But, it was a boiling point that needed to be reached in the story! All that emotion and all that conflict.I am so sorry about that long wait btw, I hate that I kept you waiting so long. Hey, B ate breakfast remember and yeah pink lemonade too. Its possible to vomit up stuff, when you don't have stuff #TruStory Oh A&B will come back TRUST MEEH

Blue-Blood Imagination X- AND I DID IT AGAIN AND I AM SOOO LATE AND SOOO SORRY! Hmm….should Ellie move in? I dunno who know's xDD You want ANOTHER huge talk?! I had to listen to the most creepy music while writing that chapter ! Alvin is a cocky mofo, thats what fame does to teenage boys hehehe

Ivory Code- Jeanette is like carrying all of the burdens of the familia and I do not know why. I love Jeanette, but when u love a character, you put them through the utmost tragedy XDDX like for whyyyy…? Can u believe Ellie had secrets for days, week, months, years, centuries, and millenniums ?! Thats crazy! You'd be surprised at how many actual celebrity siblings feel. Thank you so much and once again I apologize for the wait :(

FiLuAnna- Girl JOIN THE CLUB! I just apologize for my worst first impression of not updating for sometime, don't you hate that?! I HATE that I kept you waiting #WorstAuthorEver

Xxttppooxx- I deeply apologize for not hurrying fast enough, March- June was a complete BLUR for me and stupid people kept getting in the way and crap. Good thing is I am back to writing. I am really glad you liked it though! XDXD That made me sooo happy!

RED SPAZZ- YOU ARE SO NICE AND SWEEET AND KIND LIKE UGHHHHH! LOVE U! IM SO SORRY I KEPT U WAITING! IM SORRRY! You'd be surprised at how many celeb siblings feel this way and go through that behind closed doors. I have been thinking of other stories tbh xD You'll see xD I love my fangirliess so I gotta xD MISSED U HOPE U LIKE IT XDXD AND NO IM NOT LEAVING! IM SO SORRY I MADE YOU THINK THAT!

Destiny's Heroine- The crazy thing about fame is that it affects EVERYBODY. No one gets left out. If you are in relationship to a famous person, especially closely linked to them it will either affect u positively or negatively. Imagine Mariah Carey's sister. Been prostituting and doing drugs since 16 , then Mariah gets famous and tries to help raise her kids and send her to rehab but the sister kept getting STDS, prostituting, and doing drugs. No matter what her reasons were ( especially when u have a rich family member helping u out especially when they don't have to) , you can bet that there can be some bitterness and anger from you seeing that your very own sister is making millions and everyone loving her while you are forgotten that can spark some self-destructive behavior because u start to not like yourself. I.e b/c everyone likes your sister and can care less about you. Does that help u see Ellie's perspective ? No one ever portrays her like this so thats why I had to. But yeah, girl I can totally see her being a Kelly Clarkson or Meghan Trainor. The Chipmunks…? You'll see about them. You'll see. Oh yeah girl, they sent me the check for my car so I'm good. Thank you so much for being concerned, it means so much that u do, hope everything is good on your end girl!

MissSteph22- GIRL ME TOO. -_- I've been busy as hell so don't even trip! Girl with Brittany, a busy day, Alvin, wanting to go home but your image depends on this event, being in the public eye all day, haven't relaxed yet, all those mixed emotions, confrontation etc. It just does things to you. Yeah, girl I know Ellie's strong, but Ellie also has her own emotions and just like anyone else, sometimes we think we can handle anything , but then something comes into our life and sends us into a season where we've never seen anything like this before, or we never thought it would happen to us. Then we do something we never thought imaginable . That's what I wanted to portray. Not only were they put in situations they never thought imaginable , but you guys are seeing them respond in a different way that you guys ever thought imaginable. I know poor Jeanette...carrying the weight of it all. Being the middle child is like that sometimes. Resolving the issue?..Perhaps, perhaps not. Who knows.

And now the story you've all been waiting for…


~*Glamorous*~

Chapter 11

Amor Prohibido

(Forbidden Love)

*^,^*


"Are you okay, Brittany?!", Jeanette asked holding my hair and rubbing my back soothingly peering down to me with gentleness and genuine concern.

The guilt caused me to heave and cough a few more times as the pink and yellow mucus liquid filled into the porcelain toilet. I gagged again and the rubbing continued bring me brief relief. I barely remembered anything that just happened.

All of the yelling...all of the tears...and the secrets...that Eleanor had exposed to me. That my own sister exposed to me.

I threw one hand over my forehead and took a shaky breath, "Jeanette I...I feel-", I felt something come up again and threw my head forward and heaved my guts out again. My stomach and chest felt tight as the liquid crashed again down the toilet.

Jeanette used both of her hands to pull my hair and head back as I was coughing, shushing me and rubbing my back once more. I breathed and heaved lightly basking in the warmth of her touch ignoring the burning sensation in my throat as I slowly began to calm down.

" Its okay, Brittany, its okay-", Jeanette stopped and paused for a second letting out a deep sigh as I felt her adjust her position. She sounded like she was deep in thought, " I-I just…", I heard her say as her voice trailed off.

Oh no...I didn't want to hear this...not yet...not after seeing what I had her walk in on. I could just kick myself for not texting her back that everything was fine and she didn't need to come. But the guilt of Eleanor watching me would have made me feel even worse.

How could I have been so stupid?

"Brittany..", she began slowly but sounding like she didn't know how to. A tiny spark of hope set off in me , but I heard her clear her voice much to my dismay, "...What happened? ...I don't understand why you would be... I know you ate this morning but..I walked in and you a-and Eleanor...I just don't understand…", she sniffed and swallowed noticeably.

I brought my head up slowly and my insides felt empty. I felt empty. But strangely, all of my hate and anger had all diminished. All of what was said had somehow left me shockingly at peace.

By the grace of God, thank goodness she didn't walk in during any yelling or screaming matches. Or when Eleanor revealed her secrets.

Oh those secrets...I remember the secrets. That was the only thing that stayed stuck on my mind for obvious reasons.

The cutting...the bulima...the-those horrible people who made her feel so bad about herself. Her and Theo.

How could the world be that cruel to someone who genuinely meant no harm? It just didn't make any sense.

Even with how Theodore was at the table. I had no idea people treated him that way too. He looked like he was just happy to have something to call his own. I knew how much he loved being with his brothers on stage, I knew he was excited to be exploring his other passion. If I had known what it took for him and Eleanor to get here...

I knew their group broke up too. Because Alvin wanted to be famous all by himself. Was it even right for me to blame him ?

I felt like I couldn't… He didn't cause Eleanor to do all those things, and neither did I...I couldn't help but blame myself because I felt like the cause of it all.

"What could cause the two of you to..I don't know I mean you guys were in here a long time...almost thirty minutes.", Jeanette started again, her voice trailing off a second time snapping me out of my thoughts. "Ughh…", I moaned and very hesitantly tried to reposition myself to sit up straighter despite the numb feeling in my knees.

Thirty minutes?!

I rubbed my forehead trying to make sense of things, I was lightheaded and my mind was all over the place. I shut my eyes tightly feeling a headache coming on. Thirty minutes just didn't seem possible. I couldn't even think straight...not with all these questions.

Wait, don't lie to yourself, Brittany. You knew it was possible for all that time to pass.

I cursed inwardly and braced myself for the blow that I knew would soon come crashing down. I could see the floor moving slightly, I simply was not going to look at her.

Jeanette sighed deeply once more wiping one eye beneath her glasses, " Did it really get that bad in here?", she looked over at me and examined my broken features.

She was probably surprise that there wasn't any blood on the wall.

I could feel the color returning to my face and my eyes felt drained. The emotional blow left me a little empty, and a little better. But not better enough to tell Jeanette what happened.

Everything was all out on the table, the answers were all there. Everything that was needed to be said was all done.

But I... I couldn't cry anymore. The emotional blow left me at a loss of words and all of the realization, fatigue, and frustration literally all came rushing out of me. I was really at a loss of words.

In my peripheral, I could see her study me cautiously.

I sat on my knees with my hands folded into my lap, there was a rotten, foul taste in my mouth and I felt a small amount of peace now that the animosity and anger was all rushed out of me. Still I didn't know what to say or do.

I scanned the area slowly and brought my sad, shaky icy-blue eyes up to Jeanette and scanned her violet orbs begging her to understand.

She met my gaze with mutual realization that I simply wasn't ready to respond and I gradually brought my eyes back towards my lap. I breathed out deeply and shook my head at the ground.

"She hates me, Jeanette.", I answered sadly shutting my eyes and feeling soft tears of release rise up within me, begging to be let go.

I could practically feel both Jeanette's features and tone change slightly, " Wha-who, Eleanor?", she creased her brow and her lavender eyes widened in disbelief, " Brittany…", she scanned my face for anything but the truth.

My eyes remained shut and the clear, glossy tears soon broke free and made their way down my face and down to my chin.

I shook my head one more time, " Jean...I ruined everything..I ruined he-", I bit my tongue.

No. No, not now, that wasn't something she needed to hear. Not now. Not yet. I swallowed and tried to hurry and think of something else biting my lip.

Jeanette breathed out and blew a strand of hair forward and leaned over me to flush down the remains of my emotions. And for that I was thankful.

The sound of flushing calmed me down and carried all of my troubles away.

A sigh was heard soon after, " Brittany", she said.

My mind was fuzzy. I knew who that voice came from, but I still didn't want to look.

Jeanette reached out and touched my shoulder, "Brittany. Look at me.". I sniffed loudly and wiped away a tear turning towards her shyly.

"Eleanor is your-", she paused rephrasing herself, " Eleanor is our sister. She could never hate you. Don't you ever believe that, okay?", I felt more sobs inching up through my throat as I let all of her words sink in.

I wanted to believe her but…

" Eleanor loves you, Brittany.", Jeanette assured me softly taking a second to observe me. Did she really? I wasn't sure if I believed that anymore. After a few seconds of me not responding she spoke again, " Just like I love you too. No matter what happens."

A choked sob inched out my throat. Still, I sat there unmoving. A few heavy seconds filled the air as more tears ran down my face.

As time went by, Jeanette slowly lifted herself up off of the ground and held her hand down gently in front of me, beckoning me to come with her.

Her hand looked soft and full of so much understanding. My lips curled into what would be a sob, but I knew I had no more tears to cry. "Jeanette..", I choked out feeling all the exhaustion rise above within me, " I want to go home right now."

She amplified her gaze at me and sighed bringing her hand and thumb over my cheek caressing it gently, " Just a little while longer, okay? And then we'll go.", she casted me a tiny reassuring smile before taking her hand off my cheek and I already missed it.

I didn't have the heart to return her understanding. I didn't even know what I was going to do once I got back out there. I didn't even have the heart to face anyone, I felt like they would all know.

And I knew I didn't have it in me to face Eleanor.

I knew I wasn't the cause for the pain. But, I was a pretty big part of it. I started the domino effect that ended the group that was her life. Her shot at the entertainment industry.

The place where Eleanor's heart was really at. It was in the restaurant too, but I knew it was only her second best to her. To Elea-

Gasp!

"Elea...Eleanor!", I sucked my breath in and threw my hand over my mouth feeling myself return to my body.

I almost forgot what it was like to have feeling in my body after feeling so numb. The blow of it all was so unnerving.

I whipped my head around trying to peer across the cream colored bathroom down the stall, but all I saw were the porcelain sinks with baskets next to them.I furrowed my eyebrows together confused trying to squint and look underneath the stall next to Jeanette but my vision was blurry. I didn't see anyone there.

"...Wait?", I whispered silently bringing my hand up to run through my auburn curls, " Where did she..?"

"She left, Brittany.", Jeanette answered for me, " She's not our baby sister anymore, she has a restaurant to run, y'know? And our food should be coming out any minute now." I gagged a little bit.

Was food something that I should honestly be concerned with right now?

I mean I felt empty, but I didn't feel...sick anymore. But my breath alone was killing me from the inducing vomit from before.

"Once we get out there everything will be fine, I promise you.", she spoke into life as I brought my attention to her and sighed deeply.

The cold tile was making my soft legs numb and I almost screamed out in faint horror upon realizing that I was still on the floor.

The bathroom floor.

My realization hit me with no hesitation and I slowly pulled myself together and wiped my tears away giving a brief huff only to realize this elegant bathroom was in fact brand new and that there was nothing to worry about-for now.

I smoothed out my sheer tight jet black dress running my hands over my knees through my pantyhose when I picked up on a sound from Jeanette.

"See, you're all better now!", she tried to register to uplifting attitude with me but it just wasn't working. I frown and ignored her, sighing.

Upon hearing her clear her voice, Jeanette immediately began changing her tone and I didn't like the sound of that.

" Just um...you have to promise me something tonight, okay?", she asked me though it seemed like she was asking herself. She brought her hand down towards me for a second time.

Okay, now I really didn't like the sound of that. All of what happened tonight with probably still more to come and now this?!

I sighed dramatically and huffed peering up making out Jeanette's tanned gentle features through her glasses, "Like what?", I asked grabbing on to the softness of her hand and pulling myself up on my shaky legs. But only one was doing the balancing for me.

"O-oof!", I shrieked and landed into Jeanette's soft arms as we both crashed lightly into the other side of the stall.

"O-oh sorry Jean", I stammered against her nervously. She only smiled back at me as I felt the blood return to my body from my head. Still, I wondered about that promise I had to make.

I was hoping that it wouldn't be too much of an issue. At this rate, whatever it was, I knew I had to accept it. Anything to make her happy right now after seeing the pain on her face from earlier.

Though I would rather not remember it.

I stood on my wobbly legs praying that I would be able to balance on these heels upon leaving out of here. Was she really serious about us staying here? Maybe I could call a limo anyway and just leave.

Or haven't I caused enough damage already…

I gulped and stared straight at her hoping for some kind of small and easy request judging the way my night has been so far.

"Well..I..uh..", Jeanette began slowly and unsure. I raised a brow at her and brought my attention around the stall that we were in hoping that I could try and convince her that we should just go home and take our chances on late night take-out.

I didn't know if I had it in me to see everyone. Not to mention Alvin.

Chills and down my spine and a warm feeling rushed into me as I remembered his actions from earlier as well as his firm and protective caressing from last night at the award show.

Maybe me and him could talk tonight and I could convince him to leave with me, if we weren't too tired. But first I had to know what this promise was.

Jeanette bit her lip unsurely and brought a graceful hand up to rub her other arm shyly. She gazed down at the ground and let out a deep, but firm sigh.

My eyes were feeling dreary and I resisted the urge to roll them carelessly and repeated my huff from earlier.

In a second, I pursed my lips together and my eyes flashed up through my unnerving impatience, "Jeanette!", I stomped my heel down.

"I wanna know everything about Eleanor, Brittany.", she stated firmly, " About what she said in here."

My eyes grew wide in astonishment and my bottom lip trembled. I felt like a ghost had walked through me. A silent and ghostly breath escaped my mouth and I was at a loss of words scanning her face for any deception.

Still, she held on to my gaze with a confidence I had never seen before. Her ocean violet eyes still carried the hurt and the pain with a determination telling me that she needed to know.

I held onto a breath. Then soon after, I let out a choked high pitched laugh shaking my head at her, " Jeanette, you can't be serio-

"I deserve...to know, Brittany.", she met me with the same determination as before taking a noticeable deep breath altogether burying my conscious with feelings of anxiety and fear. Oh no, not this again.

My lips trembled and my mouth was open in disbelief. I can't. I couldn't.

All of that stuff, she had to have known about it right? Did she really not know anything? Nothing about Eleanor?

I was frantic now. With a face like that, I knew she was serious. But if she was...how could she have not known? Aren't she and Eleanor close? They hung out maybe not too often because Eleanor was busy, but often enough!

I couldn't be the one that had to spill it, this wasn't my responsibility. Why couldn't she just ask Eleanor?

I licked my lips hurriedly and tried to reason with her, " But...but come on, Jean. You...you can't just expect-

" She's my sister too, Brittany. ", she spoke into me making me stop in my tracks. I stared and braced myself for another blow to come, like it always did. I knew she was right this time.

"Anything that would leave both of you guys sobbing like that is enough reason for me to know.", Jeanette confirmed.

I thought for a second, trying to piece together an explanation, but I couldn't let go of the breath I was holding on to. Just how was I going to tell her that our baby sister was cutting herself?!

Didn't Eleanor say Jeanette didn't even know about it...what would Eleanor say to me if she found out I told? Any hope of rebuilding our relationship would be long gone.

I let out a breath and surveyed Jeanette's face for an answer I hoped she could give me. But I knew she couldn't tell me something she didn't know.

I frowned and stomped down in frustration huffing with confusion. I couldn't- I didn't know what to say to her!

I wanted to lash out. What I wanted to say was…

"Jeanette, wait.", I paused licking my lips in pure grief, " I-she…", I sighed in annoyance and frustration. This was just too much in one day. Too much.

"Jeanette.", I repeated for a second time sighing and positioning myself for my next answer.

I was under the impression that if I showed her how frustrated I was and dodged everything altogether, she would instantly pick up and refuse to call it off. She'd be certain there was more than just a few hurtful words said.

I had to try again, but how was I going to get passed this?! I searched myself for an answer. My thoughts were out of control and I didn't know what to do with myself but panic uncontrollably.

Searching myself was now out of the question, I couldn't even trust myself to stand up straight much less give her a straight, direct answer.

I licked my lips and tried to form something-anything! But my words were matching my thoughts and they were coming out tangled altogether.

"Jeanette I-I sh-she...", I stumbled over my words trying to give her an answer I knew she deserved, but gosh! What was I supposed to say?!

I could tell she could sense my frustration. I immediately took a deep breath silently hoping I could dodge my way around it.

I soon felt walls build up in my chest and felt a burning rush bottle up inside of me. In a second, I balled my hand into a fist and I felt my eyes well up with tears of pent-up frustration.

"No, no Brittany, it's okay!", Jeanette threw both her hands up on my shoulders trying to stop me.

I was dumbfounded, my mouth was slightly open and my body was tingling. Jeanette had a silent hint of a smile from my wild recent reaction.

"I didn't mean now.", she confirmed warmly and instantly, my temperature came down a little. I relaxed and ran my hand through my soft auburn curls, patting them I felt happy to realize that they still felt soft and curly.

I stopped and scanned Jeanette face, " Wait...then..."

"I meant when we get out of here tonight.", she smiled and my spirit felt at ease.

"Maybe tonight during our late night swim if you're still okay with that. But not if you're still feeling sick. On the other hand, it could make you sicker...", she brought her hand to her chin and froze in thought, " Or maybe it could relax you, who knows?"

I nodded eagerly and cleared my throat concentrating and trying to find my voice, " Mhmm, yeah. That sounds good, yeah I-I'll be fine.", I squeaked out though I was still unsure of myself. I saw Jeanette instantly come back to herself and the light pink tint on her cheeks returned.

"Alright, come on.", she continued waving her hand over and stepping out of the stall, " Let's get that makeup fixed."

I laughed lightly upon feeling Jeanette's shy, girly attitude had returned and I stepped out to follow her. I knew before she was never one that was particularly interested in makeup, but I had did hers a couple of times a year ago, and after that, she was shyly eager to learn.

Of course after many trials of failed attempts on her side.

As I exited the stall, the bathroom seemed to take on a golden pinkish hue embellishing the entire room. My spirit calmed and I felt myself relax. The room didn't feel as scary as it did before. I let out that breath I was holding on to.

Slowly, but surely, Jeanette's presence alone seemed to relax the whole room. As I heard her footsteps echoing the hall. Everything felt...at peace.

I took another step out cautiously looking both ways. I sensed Eleanor's presence and didn't want to make the mistake of running into her before I was ready.

I glanced around quickly hoping to catch her before she caught me, but I didn't see her.

Or couldn't.

I glanced up and looked to see Jeanette fixing the strands of her brunette hair in the mirror. Combing and fluffing out her dark chocolate waves to meet her standards for her elegantly sloppy that even a good word? Elegantly sloppy?

Well I don't even care because it definitely described Jeanette!

I stared at her for a second. Watching her fix and adjust her hair and her glasses through the shiny mirror and I felt a lump in my throat and I choked on a sob. Guilt welled up inside me and my shoulders slumped over.

At that, Jeanette saw my expression in the mirror and instantly jerked back and looked at me questionably.

My mind was slowly putting itself back together. And the realization was beginning to fall back into place and hit me hard.

Like when you sleep in a different place than you normally would and then wake up not knowing where you are, then the pieces of the puzzle start to fit back together.

I made sight of myself in the mirror. Though my auburn curls were still long a fluffing down to my waist. My makeup had tiny grey streaks running down my face and a bit of my foundation was rubbed off.

My lips were still rosy, but my lip gloss had run its course. It looked like I had really bad allergies, if only that were the case.

I reached up and touched my cheeks. The coldness of my fingertips created goosebumps on the back of my neck and another ghostly sigh escaped from me. I guess this is what happens when two years of animosity finally meet.

This is what misunderstandings and broken dreams looked like, and I didn't like it.

How could I do this to Eleanor...to Jeanette...to us all? No matter what anyone would tell me, I really felt like the cause of all this.

I didn't know what was worse. Being the very root to all of our problems, or sitting by passively and playing pretend like everything was all fine and dandy. I took my hand down and caught sight of a pair of violet orbs rising up to take an unsure look at me.

Oh Jeanette. Poor, sweet Jeanette, she's so understanding and full of sympathy throughout it all. So full of resilience and I..I..

I couldn't couldn't control it anymore.

Like magic, I ran and crashed myself against her soft arms and rocked her back and forth.

She flushed and caught me as I wrapped my arms around her,"W-woah Brittany, what's wrong?", she questioned right away sensing and feeling my pain and hurt.

Then it was silent.

I didn't answer. Instead I only squeezed her tighter like my life depended on it sniffling because I had no more tears to run focusing on Jeanette for comfort.

And once again, Jeanette's kind and understanding nature kicked in and she sighed contently and squeezed me back holding me against her. "It's okay, Brittany. It's been hard on all of us, I understand.", she answered softly.

I still didn't answer. Instead I pouted against her shoulder unsure of what to say. Then I had realized something I had never knew before.

Through it all, Jeanette was the rock that held us all together. Through thick and thin, she was here for us both, me and Eleanor.

Great.

More guilt to add to my name.

I felt exhausted as I leaned against her. I then caught sight of myself in the mirror again and stared back at my reflection with dull and lost icy blue eyes. I gave another deep sigh and gave Jeanette another squeeze shutting my eyes and turning away. I didn't even want to look at myself.

As I lay against her, thoughts rang through me asking me how I was going to make it through this night or even have the courage to go out and face everyone. It was probably almost 10pm, but I could tell there was still more to come, just by the way this day has been. Soon after, I felt those same words coming out of my mouth.

"Everything will be fine, Brittany. It's going to be okay.", Jeanette spoke with great sympathy and rubbed my back gently, " You don't have to tell everyone what happened, it's none of their business anyway. Just play it cool like you always do, just like when the reporters were outside."

I bit my lip, I didn't want to hear that. My stomach churned at the thought of a half-hearted Scoop-Of-The-Month being plastered on magazine covers by tomorrow morning.

Those thoughts were cut short and I felt a growling sound coming from my stomach and groaned lightly reminding me of what I threw up earlier from this morning.

Now I was really empty.

"And you need to really put something in your stomach. Not a lot though, we wouldn't want you to come back in here.", she laughed and I felt her hand trickle down my sides and tickle my stomach.

"H-hey! Jeanette!", I giggled lightly pushing her back and entangling my fingers with hers, "Stoppit, I'm serious, you know I hate being tickled!"

I saw her smile light up her face and my heart warmed and matched the beat of her own. I smiled. I was beginning to feel good again.

Jeanette snickered and giggled lightly and gave me a mischievous smile while maintaining eye contact and I raised a brow on instinct as she spoke, " Not as much as you hate getting yanked off the bed like this morning."

My mouth dropped and I playfully hit her upon reminding me of the events that occurred earlier today, " Uh yeah and I still haven't forgiven you for that!", I growled feeling my temples pulse.

Just who does she think she is reminding me of that?!

"And my butt still hurts from earlier because of you and your sick jokes!", I exclaimed with one finger on her chest across the lacy fabric of her dress.

She covered her mouth with her both of her hands with her eyes squeezed shut letting out many muffled giggles until her cheeks were tinted pink.

" I'm gonna get you back, Jeanette. Just wait, and you definitely won't see it coming.", I threw on hand over my hip with a smirk.

She scoffed muttered something under her breath rolling her eyes shaking her head at me and I rose my eyes in surprise. My other hand went to my hip and cocked my head to the side taking a step forward getting in her face, " What? You don't believe me?"

Jeanette opened her mouth like she was about to say something backing up and stopped instantly feeling her back hit the countertops behind her .

She gasped on the impact glancing around at the counter and then redirecting her attention back to me." Yeah, see, and you're trapped.", I taunted making no attempt to hide my smile, " Now finish that sentence, sis.", I rose my hands up in preparation.

Jeanette made out what I was about to do and threw her arms out in front of her in defense pushing me away shrieking, "No wait stop, Britt I was just play-", she erupted into fits of laughter as I dug my hands into her stomach and tickled her senseless. She cried out and clenched her stomach laughing and sighing uncontrollably.

" Now don't you dare mutter anything under your breath again, Jeanette!", I grinned and pulled away laughing at her recent outburst laughing as her glasses were now crooked across her face. I giggled and leaned forward straightening them out for her while we stayed giggling.

I scanned my eyes across her face as her laughter picked up and then died down. Though I had a thought in the back of my head that I needed to get out.

If I didn't now, I wasn't sure if I'd find the time later. I cleared my voice and took a breath bringing one hand to rub my other arm shyly to mimic Jeanette's motion from earlier, "So hey...Jeanette?"

She brought her hands down in front of her looking at me concerned with the look I had on my face, " Yeah, Britt?", she still had a small smile looking eager to hear what I was about to say.

"I..um…", I, sheepishly stared at the ground then back up at her into her violet orbs. I was very tempted to avoid eye contact, yet her alluring eyes were heavily focused on me.

I shook myself away from the trace and tried to find what I was about to say, " I guess what I wanted to say was..um a-are you okay, Jeanette?", I felt the heaviness on my soul become removed at that instant of getting it off my chest.

Jeanette seemed genuinely surprised blinking back and fixed her attention on me.

I could tell she was surprised too because I really wasn't one to think of others before I thought of myself. I had to admit I was a little surprised too.

"Of course I'm fine Brittany.", she answered back and I remained silent, I didn't crack a smile. I guess she got the message because she spoke again, " I..uhh well...I guess I-what I meant to say was that... I'm not 'alright alright' if you know what I mean. But…", she paused trying to gather her thoughts together.

My lip was beginning to tremble again. I was beginning to have a heartbroken look on my face, I braced myself for the impact.

" Well Brittany. To be honest…", she fumbled over her words and tried to piece together her words carefully, " I didn't like what I saw when I came in here a-and…", she sighed gazing at the ground and then back up at me, " I don't know what the cause of it was and everything. But…"

Her voice trailed off and I narrowed my eyes creasing my brows together and waited for her to speak again.

She took a deep breath and made eye contact with me, " Through it all...I know we can fix this. This. Whatever this is, Brittany, I know..", she paused and took a breath, "...I just know we'll get through this.", she finished staring straight at me hoping I understood.

I hiccuped and my eyes were glossy. Not because of Jeanette's true strength and determination, but because of what she didn't know. Because of what she wasn't ready to face. She thinks that whatever this issue was, is going to be resolved over a time through a simple talk.

It wasn't.

I knew it wasn't.

Regardless of what Jeanette thought she could handle, she wasn't ready for any of this.

Before I knew it I felt soft arms being wrapped around me and I woke from my trance.

"...right, Brittany?", I heard Jeanette say and I instantly wrapped my arms around her feeling someone or something tug on the strands of my heart. I wasn't sure of what to say.

" We didn't come all this way from Australia for nothing you know. It won't always be like this.", she squeezed me tighter and I flushed against her hug.

I hate to say it...but honestly, I didn't think it was possible.

" Eventually things will be back to the way they were. You'll see.", she finished softly burying her head into my neck. Jeanette sounded like she was more so trying to convince herself more than me. I sighed in the crook of neck and took a breath.

Whether me and Eleanor like each other or not. I knew sooner or later we would need to make up.

I sighed and felt a warm presence enwrap all over me, "...Thank you, Jeanette.", I sighed deeply and took in the vanilla scent that lingered off of her and squeezed her again.

And for a moment after that, everything seemed fine and I felt a light touch ignite within me making me unwind and soften up my heart. We could just...talk about it later.

Although, in a second, the fear of going out to face everyone soon came back to me and again, I was fumbling over my thoughts.

Jeanette pulled away from me and I could see she still had the hint of a small smile of reassurance and hope. And for the moment, I forgot about my problems. Jeanette nodded toward the door muttering a what sounded like a 'let's go' but before she could start for the door, she turned around and her eyes widened in realization.

"Oh wait! We almost forgot!", she pushed past me and headed back to the counter.

Confused, I gave her a what-are-you-talking-about face and she laughed. "Forgot about what, Jean?", I asked in hope of it being something of good nature. She gave me a weird look, " We forgot to fix your face.", she said simply.

My face turned a ferocious red and my mouth dropped drastically and I stared daggers at her, "Jeanette!", I couldn't believe she had just said that! I mean I knew I looked a mess but I mean I wasn't that bad!I swear I'm fighting her as soon as we got home!

"No, look!", she gasped in excitement digging her hands through on of the many baskets on the counter scrambling through it.

I blinked twice, were those things always there? Confused, I cocked my head to the side inching trying to see what the heck she was talking about.

She suddenly pulled out what looked like light blue liquid in a small glass bottle showing it to me with the same grin.

I pursed my lips together and gave her a dumb look, " And what is that supposed to be , Jean? Water? Or something for my face?"

"No!", Jeanette exclaimed purposely ignoring my comment like the devil she was, " For your mouth, Brittany!", she handed the bottle to me. I still had my eyes squinting trying to see what exactly she was holding. "Come on, Brittany, its mouthwash!", she shrieked and grinned towards me.

My eyes widened in shock as I gave the bottle a look of disbelief my mouth slightly open. I took the bottle and examined it and scoffed.

"Really Jeanette? Mouthwash in a bathroom?!", I peered at it closely trying to look for any sign of poison.

Just who was she kidding? This couldn't possibly be -

'Antibacterial Rinse For Oral Care'

I blinked rapidly and looked at Jeanette. She nodded at me and pointed towards more inside the basket. I took a step forward listening to the clicking sound my heels were making on the tile flooring and looked inside one of the small baskets and sure enough there were more of them in there. Along with hand sanitizers, lotions, napkins, and other small things.

I glanced over and made out Jeanette pulling out what appeared to be a tiny set of cosmetics laying them out on the counter and I smiled, "Well, then let's get started."


"Mmph!", I spit out the last of the liquid into the sink watching it swirl down the faucet and looked at my teeth through the mirror.

"Ugh, Jeanette, do you have another one of those...you know those tiny toothbrush thingies…", I made gestures with my hands and she frowned and rolled her eyes at me but I didn't have time to tackle her out of anger for that just yet.

"You know! ", I pestered at her with both hands desperately trying to make her remember, " The thingies that come with the toothpaste and stuff?! The stuff you carried around that I thought was irrelevant until now!"

Jeanette shot me a look and pulled out something small from her tiny cosmetic bag she always seemed to carry around with her.

Even then I still couldn't believe that Jeanette now held a deep respect for cosmetics in the form of sheer emergencies. I quickly snatched it from her and applied it to my teeth.

She shook her head at me, "Gosh Brittany, they're called disposable toothbrushes." .

I scoffed and tossed the tiny thingy into the trash and smoothed my my skin tight jet black dress out. "Well, Jeanette. That device could have annihilated me for all I know.", I smirked and shot her the same look through the mirror with a grin.

She put the last of the cosmetics away and tucked the small bag away, "Boy Brittany, 'annihilated'?", she tucked rest of the bag away and went to the mirror to fix a few loose strands while smoothing out her lip gloss, " Those tutoring lessons must be paying off, don't you think?"

She shrieked and dodged my fist before it came in contact with her side and burst into giggles. I really didn't know what people saw in Jeanette. She was evil and that was the end of it.

"Ughhh..", I yawned and stretched my arms above my head sighing feeling a bone snap into place. At that moment I sighed deeply again and thought for a second.

Did I really have it in me to make it through the rest of this night?

I already dealt with so many unplanned situations and people today. It felt like I had already lived several days of my life and I still couldn't believe the day wasn't over yet. I shut my eyes tightly and stared straight at my reflection in the mirror.

I swear I was starting to see those bags under my eyes that gave me one hell of a fear back today in my dressing room before Eleanor called me.

I groaned inwardly and thought for a second staring straight into the pink tint in my eye seeing how tired I was. I was just so exhausted...I didn't know if I could take another shot at today.

Maybe it was best if I called it quits.

" Jeanette.", I turned to her and looked at her with lazy eyes taking a deep breath preparing myself for my next move.

"Hmm…?", she replied clipping another strand of hair away. I had to admit, I had to be the best big sister ever.

Seeing Jeanette actually able to apply her own makeup and deal with her own hair had to be one of the bestest things I ever done. Why haven't I been awarded for this yet? I'm gonna have to call somebody. There was no way this should not go unnoticed.

I snapped myself out of my thoughts, my eyes were beginning to get heavy, "Are you...are you sure we can't just go home?", I asked against my better judgement.

I knew I already caused enough trouble here. I just didn't think I...belonged here. The guilt was slowly creeping into me and my mind was fuzzy all over again. Somehow I could sense that with everything that was said...Eleanor did not want me around.

I could hear a lowly sigh coming from her. I flinched upon the sound feeling a chill run through me and the room started to suddenly feel cold again. Jeanette stopped and turned towards me and went silent for a few seconds before responding.

"... Is that really what you want?", she asked honestly.

I paused and looked at her, "Wait a minute...what?" That wasn't the answer I wanted to hear. Why did she sound like that, it was like something was off about her. Something I didn't like.

Jeanette sighed and spoke again softly, " I said is that really what you want?". I froze and furrowed my brows together.

Well I mean of course it was what I wanted...but why did the way she said it suddenly make me feel guilty?

What other excuse was there? I clearly didn't belong here and it wasn't like there were no places left to eat in LA. The city never sleeps for pete's sake!

"Erm...well..I…", I bit my lip searching for an answer. Sometimes Jeanette blew my mind away with how easy-going she was. It made me fully realize what Simon and everyone else saw in her. I knew if I was that sure I wanted to leave right now, Jeanette would simply come along. But why did getting my way all of a sudden make me feel weird?

" I mean Brittany…", she paused and tried to piece her thoughts together placing a palm on the counter. She faced me, but wasn't looking me in the eye, " If you want to go that's fine. I won't argue with that." I cocked a brow up at her half-hearted response and waited for her to continue.

This wasn't going where I thought I would.

" But if you leave Brittany... you'll have to do it on your own because this is Eleanor's night and I have to stay and support her."

I blinked and questioned what I just heard. Wait what...no. I could not have heard that right.

She...Jeanette...Jeanette couldn't do that! No, this wasn't right, none of this was right. Jeanette was supposed to be by my side! She was supposed to be my ride or die we were always a team! She can't s-she…

"Jeanette…", my voice was shaky. I just couldn't believe she would...how…?

"Why?!", I blurted out.

At this point, I wanted to tell her all of the horrible things Eleanor had done to me all day. She didn't deserve to have Jeanette on her side the way she treated me. I felt totally betrayed.

"Brittany…", she sighed again and blew a breath out rubbing her forehead, "Brittany regardless of what you think, this is Eleanor and Theodore's night. You have to consider that." I took in a breath and and felt my body shiver all over.

I then caught sight of that flickering light behind Jeanette again only this time it was moving slower.

I stared straight at her in disbelief. How could…

" I…", Jeanette continued, " This is for what's best, Brittany. This is her night and I need to stick it through with her until the end.", she finished and finally her eyes made her way up towards my face.

Jeanette has always been by my side...

"Oh..", my spirit dropped, " Oh..kay then", I swallowed and again heard the noise of the leaky faucet with how silent the room had gotten. I searched her face for an answer and looked away when I didn't get one.

" Alright then, Jeanette.", I nodded my consent hurriedly with a fake tone more so trying to convince myself that everything was alright and that I wasn't honestly going to be riding solo out of here.

To be honest, I didn't know if I was being totally honest when I told Jeanette we should leave...but to know that she wouldn't come with me if I was serious about it…

"I guess that's fine then.", I muttered under my breath crossing my arms.

At that, Jeanette's eyes rose up in surprise and she quickly changed her tone, " Wait. Wait Brittany. No I mean…", she stammered and tried to reason with me, " Brittany I...I can go with you its just that-

"No, Jeanette. No I get it.", I put a hand up stopping her. This couldn't happen. Not like this.

My chest moved and swayed carrying a rush of emotions pulling me more towards the truth of the situation. It all felt so uncomfortable and for some reason I went along with it.

Jeanette paused and blinked as I went on, " No….no…", my voice trailed off and I looked away deep in thought. After a few seconds I closed my eyes and sighed, " Jeanette we….we can't…" Seconds passed and before I knew it, I was bombarded with flashbacks from earlier.

From Eleanor's confession to Jeanette walking in on what had taken place. The look on her face…it was at that moment I came to a realization.

"Jeanette, we can't keep... putting you between us.", I confirmed making eye contact with her again, " We can't keep...making you choose.", my voice came out in a whisper.

A cheerless, shaky breath found its way out of me and an icy chill ran down my spine for a second time. I was mad at myself. Mad at myself all over again.

I couldn't keep having Jeanette dart back and forth between us like this.

It was the main thing that was tearing us apart. Her eyes were pleading and glossy with regret from her last comment. She shook her head disagreeing with it all reaching out to me in regret, " Brittany I can go-

"No, Jeanette. No. You're right. This is Eleanor's night...,", I breathed out against my best judgement. This was for Jeanette. Anything to make Jeanette happy right now. We could focus on how I felt about Eleanor later.

"...This is Eleanor's night so…", I was having difficulty swallowing and without noticing, I felt my hands grip onto the countertops. The minty flavor of the mouthwash left a coolness to my mouth and helped describe the wintry awareness I felt all around me.

I picked up my case, " So..I'm gonna stay tonight too…to support her and Theodore too."

I glanced around the tile flooring in front of me and caught sight of

Jeanette's heels tracing up her long legs and soon meeting her face and her gloomy features had soon begun to gradually change into a face of pure joy. She grinned and happily dashed towards me grasping me into a bear hug.

"Ohh, Brittany!', she shrieked and squeezed me tighter, " This is so great, you don't know how much this means to me. And how much it'll mean to Eleanor." I hoarsely choked out a breath with my hands still wrapped around her back, " You think, Jean?", I squeaked out causing Jeanette to mutter an 'oops' loosening up her hold on me.

Jeanette pulled back and stared at me and grinned, her smile lighting up her whole face of finally being understood. For that I was glad, though.

It was true.

We needed to stop pulling her back and forth between our problems and making her choose. I also don't think I could possibly live with the guilt and shame of leaving either.

Word would've got out super fast and would have been on the same page as our little run in with that reporter outside.

Still I wondered if I had time to call one of my publicists to pay them off because we knew that always worked.

Sighing, I took in Jeanette's features and her silly grin had caused me to smile. She giddily bounced up and down squealing, " Oh Brittany, I knew you wouldn't have left. To be honest I don't know what I'd do if you did. I'd feel so guilty." I pouted in return.

Not as guilty as I'd feel by seeing all of today's events on tomorrow's headlines.

But I couldn't let Jeanette know that. So right now, I was just going to bask in seeing her truly smile after seeing her heart shatter so soon earlier minutes ago.

One thing's for sure though, whatever my manager has planned for me tomorrow is going to be cancelled fast because I'm already done with tomorrow.

A hand gently caressed my cheek and pinched it, I woke up from my trance and pursed my lips at Jeanette. " Um hello, are you new?", I spat out at her as she picked up her laughter.

I still didn't see what was so funny. " Jeanette you know I don't like when my face is touched. Or have you forgotten that?"

"I was just going to say that I really like what you did with your makeup, Brit.", she confirmed matter-of-factly. I clenched my jaw and furrowed my brows together, "What the-

To my right, in the mirror what I saw brought me back to my senses. My face was golden and lit myself back up. My lips were back to their rosy state and my skin was porcelain and flawless. The black streaks were erased and Jeanette's powder gave me a photoshop nearly naked finish.

I gazed at my reflection touching my face with one hand in awe over my rosy golden eyeshadow and the rest of my sculpted features. I smirked at my reflection, "If I didn't know any better, Jeanette. I'd say I look even better than I did when I first stepped foot in this place.", I grinned and laughed at my comment snickering and fluffing out my auburn hair.

"Oh stop, Brittany!", she rolled her eyes playfully running a lazy hand through her brown strands sighing lightly. She still held that same look of pure happiness on her face and for the moment everything was fine. Some of the weight was lifted off my shoulders and at that moment…

Maybe…

Maybe I could patch things up with Eleanor...for Jeanette at least. I don't really know how that will happen, but maybe me and Eleanor could work something out.

I hope.

I brushed myself off after taking one last look in the mirror and grasping onto Jeanette's outreached hand and heading out of the door. Hopefully this was the last I had to see for this bathroom that had seen too much. Good riddance.

The door swung open and we headed straight to the right.

Our heels clicked down the long tan-gold hallway and we heard voices coming from the side, chatter probably from the people in the lobby. We walked in silence, unsure of what to say.

At least that's how it felt from my side alone. How is it that Jeanette was right next to me, but I kept feeling like I was all alone in all this. I gazed down at the diamond colored patterns on the flooring with diamonds laced in between the patterns on the ground that I had not seen before.

A drop of liquid splashed on the ground in front of where I stepped before I could realize it.

My eyes went wide in shock and I brushed a hand across my teary eye quickly wiped the excess away before Jeanette could see.

I gave a light sniff and brought my head back up trying to think of different excuses of what to say and how to say it.

It wasn't everyday you had a frightening family encounter in their very own private restaurant.

I sighed deeply and let out a breath I didn't know I was holding. How was I going to get through this? I kept forgetting that we still needed to get to the table and face everybody.

My relaxed feeling was beginning to fade. The fact that I had to go out there and face everybody who was also wondering where Eleanor and Jeanette went and think of an explanation at the same time…

And the fact that going home would do more harm than good…

The reality of it all was honestly terrifying and I couldn't believe I had agreed to come here tonight.

The price of fame...the fact that sometimes I thought that I had complete control of my life, but when it really came down to it, the cameras controlled my every action more than I did.

Truth pierced into me at that moment and became a cold reality to me. Making me realize that I was under a spell and the spotlight was my puppetmaster, I had no control over my actions or my motives or what I really wanted. Yes, I had to think of Eleanor but…

I heard it. A soft melody racing through me. Turning, I found myself looking to the side at Jeanette, I had almost forgot I was holding her hand.

Jeanette was glancing at her bedazzled phone case humming a familiar sound of a song from when we were 'The Chipettes' while swiping through a few messages. As we walked, I heard the lyrics of the melody flow through my mind.

Hey doncha' know that we're off to see the world

We're off to find things new

So we will follow every clue...

Just think there's suddenly

A chance to find it in all we dreamed in dreams come true…

That melody still was close to me. I could still feel the wind and rush of the hot air balloons from when we shot that movie. That was one of the greatest moments of my life and I missed it. Alvin, Simon, and Theodore and us were all so small. I wish we could go back to those days. Back where everything made sense.

As I stared carefully at Jeanette's flawless features remembering the tears that ran down her cheeks, her song ran through my spirit reminding me of the reason why I was doing this.

Or why I thought I was doing this.

We needed to be a family again...

The walls were moving slower and I felt Jeanette's hand slip away, only I was still holding it very firmly. Her light breathing maneuvered in and out of her nonchalantly along with her graceful steps .

We turned around the next hallway and I turned to say something to Jeanette but stopped short seeing the shock on her face.

"Huh?", I stopped and soon shared her gasp once I looked ahead and saw many colorful luminous figures in the hallway facing towards us, with one brightly light green figure facing them. They were speaking to each other with no sight of us-yet.

I gasped inwardly and cursed under my breath seeing everybody from our table in a tiny circle in the hall speaking to each other.

" Oh…", I began upon seeing Eleanor's back facing towards us as she spoke with Dave, Simon, Theo, and...A...Al-

"...Crap.", Jeanette finished for me stopping us both in our stance hand in hand as we stood still as a statue in the brightly lit hallway looking at everyone we so easily left behind who were now all standing right in the center of the hallway.


We couldn't look away.

They were all standing a few feet away from us. Eleanor looked like she was reassuring everyone that she was alright running a hand lightly through her blonde waves that were once curls creating a guilty feeling all over again inside me.

Before I could say anything, Dave immediately glanced over Eleanor and caught sight of us.

Theodore perked up and motioned Eleanor to turn around and face us. Simon exchanged a worried glance at both me and Jeanette unsurely. Jeanette gave him a shy smile and a tiny wave of reassurance.

My breath was caught in my throat upon the last glance that crossed ways with me.

My cheeks flushed instantly and all of the blood drained from my face and my chest began to race. I was hot all over upon remembering Alvin's actions from earlier and I didn't even have the courage to face him.

I looked away and then back at him. Alvin's ocean blue eyes were locked at me, but instead of the cocky smirk I lov-hated so much, there was something different. Concern. Alvin gave me a genuine look of concern and worry and his brows were together while he looked from Jeanette to me.

" Hh...I…", my mouth fell ghostly silent. Jeanette squeezed my hand tightly and turned to give me a quick uneasy glance. Even then, she gave me a smile showing that she was thinking the same exact thing as me .

What was everybody doing out here? Had they come to check on all of us...Were we really in there for that long?

Eleanor turned to face us pausing in slight shock and then looked between the others cautiously before clearing her voice, " ...Uhm...yeah Dave I was feeling much better now like I said. Must've been something I ate this morning. Um…"

Eleanor paused and looked back at me and Jeanette. Her face was still slightly pink from earlier and she was hesitating like she was unsure of her next move.

" Hey ladies…", Dave greeted as Jeanette pulled us forward, our heels clicking on the tile flooring with the golden wall lamps slightly blinding me. Eleanor looked uneasy and uncomfortable causing Dave to give her a questionable look before redirecting his attention to us. "How are you guys we-

"We were really worried about you guys!", Theodore interrupted peering at the three of us glancing with genuine concern. He looked worried beyond belief. I felt kinda stupid now.

For walking out here thinking that the coast will be clear. Great, now how were we going to explain ourselves?!

"We thought something had...happened.", Simon joined in looking between us all puzzled as to why Jeanette and I had fresh make-up on our faces while Eleanor looked to have all of hers disappear.

He shook his head and amplified his gaze at Eleanor, "What happened? Are you sure you got a little sick. Eleanor?"

She pressed her lips into a tight frown with her eyes shut real tight, "Y-yes, I was.", she replied trying to hide her dismay, " I had told Theodore I was feeling a little sick this morning. Remember?", she brought her gaze towards Theodore biting her lip hoping he would agree.

Theo instead looked like he was trying to recall the events from earlier and wasn't doing a good job at it.

Finally his face looked hurt almost like he ate something he didn't like and gave Eleanor a nod of approval, though looking like he didn't want to.

I could hear the hoots and hollers from everyone who was still down the hall in the main ballroom of tables and seats. Hearing them from afar enjoying themselves and sounding as though they were having the time of their lives made me want to cringe.

But not as hard as the person to the other side of Jeanette was.

Alvin held on to his gaze towards me with a look I had never seen before. Or have I...? He looked at me like he could tell something was wrong. Something he couldn't let go. Something I knew I was going to hear about before the night ended whether I liked it or not.

I sighed remembering his actions from earlier. Could he have really been playing? Really...touching me like that? He had to be. No other guy would be showing me this much concern if they were only in this for a joke. He was my best friend after all...

Theodore took a deep breath snapping me out of my thoughts and brought his gaze towards Eleanor unsure, " I remember you saying something about it earlier but I don't…", his voice trailed off as he was still searching for an answer.

I could tell he wanted to believe Eleanor, but his mind knew that his close friend wasn't telling the truth.

"Okay I'm fine , everyone. Really, I am.", Eleanor exclaimed trying to convince herself," I guess I...was just feeling a little sick." I knew she was tired of hearing everyone be all over her over this and I was too.

But to be honest, I'd rather keep it that way because if that's the excuse they were going for, Eleanor being 'sick'? Then the focus wouldn't be on me.

The crazy part of it all was that the one who actually got sick out of it all was me.

"Hmph.", Alvin snorted in disbelief at Eleanor crossing his arms against his chest, " Sooo am I the only one who's seeing this, then? That's not what you looked like before you up and left. Like you just fought a battle or something"

I frowned and yet my heart raced across my chest at hearing his voice after it seemed like so long ago since I had heard it last. His smooth baritone had cut its way into my heart and made me fall in love with him all over again. Ugh...this wasn't going good.

At this rate, I just wanted to take off and get out of here. But...Eleanor…

And Theodore.

I had to remember what I told Jeanette. This was their night. And I wasn't going to make it about me for once...tonight that is. As much as I admit I could be really full of myself, I had every reason to be! I could let it go, but only for tonight.

That is, if I lived to see the end of it.

"Alvin.", Dave warned staring sternly at him, but again Alvin returned nothing but a cocked brow at him and a scowl daring him to say something else. They locked eyes for a moment and I squeezed Jeanette's hand a little tighter leaning into her.

I blinked between the two of them in utter shock and confusion.

Why were they acting like this all of a sudden? Was I the only one seeing this? Did everybody know something I didn't?

I gazed at Simon who didn't seem even a bit off by it and then at Theodore who wouldn't take his eyes off of Eleanor.

I knew Dave and Alvin had their disagreements, but Alvin was acting like he couldn't stand him! Why wasn't anybody noticing?

"I-I just accidentally rubbed some of my mascara off is all. Really I'm okay. Brittany and Jean just came to check up on me, that's all.", Eleanor finished sheepishly. Everybody held their gaze on her and back to us unsurely like they knew we were all hiding something.

Then out of nowhere, I could tell the answers weren't adding up and I gulped. For a second I felt as though I could read everyone's mind.

Because if that was so true, why had we left the bathroom after her so late? Wouldn't we have came out altogether?

And why did Jeanette and I look like we just got done getting all dressed up retouching our makeup while Eleanor looked like she had never even heard of mascara? And why would she leave the bathroom with such a look of defeat on what was supposed to be her night?

I bit my lip wondering what I was going to say next. Or even at all! I hadn't even said anything yet because if I lied, I was going to have to say a thousand more by the end of the night and my story will be all ruined and then I'd for sure have to fess up.

We all looked between each other not sure what to believe. Because, in a way, we were hiding something from each other.

Eleanor and I were hiding something from Jeanette.

Alvin and Dave were hiding something from me regarding their relationship.

Eleanor was lying about being sick and Theodore was lying about 'remembering' it.

Jeanette and Simon were hiding whatever relationship they had from us.

Eleanor was hiding something from everyone with her secrets.

...Alvin and I were also hiding something from everyone….

What other secrets were we all keeping from each other? And how much were we willing to confess?

"Well that's probably from all of the excitement from the restaurant release!", Dave said finally ignoring Alvin's hateful glare in an attempt to cheer up Eleanor, " Or pre-release like Simon was telling me at the production agency from earlier today.", Dave wrapped an arm around Eleanor rubbing her back, " You sure you gonna be okay? Is that why Brittany came to the bathroom with you? Because she was feeling sick, right Brittany?"

I backed up. Everybody was looking at me now. I didn't know whether to make myself clear or head home right now because home sounded really good now that I thought about it. " Yeah...yes that's why I went-I-I mean that's why I…

"That's why we both came here.", Jeanette spoke up saving me from the horror of the truth, " To check on Eleanor and see if...", Jeanette paused and waited for Eleanor to agree with her, but she looked away and shyly down at the ground.

Jeanette's face dropped down a little upon seeing her sister so broken on what was supposed to be her night.

"To see if she was okay…", Jeanette finished in a whisper.

Nothing was making sense at this point. An assortment or navy ocean, deep green, and candied brown eyes darted all over each other.

Everybody knowing something, but not telling another. Everybody wanting to confess something, but wasn't willing to give it a shot.

It didn't make any sense. If we were so close then why did it look as though Eleanor left without us.

We would for sure have all headed back out as a group and Eleanor wouldn't look like her favorite puppy just died. Why had she even left the bathroom alone? Where would she go…

Was she trying to leave here tonight?

Eleanor never made eye contact with us. Instead she looked away and towards Theodore who gave her a small smile that she returned folding her arms together.

"Actually, I was hoping...that Jean would come and help me fix my hair real quick. I was going back to check on...you guys. Then I was gonna come back..and...", Eleanor stated all of a sudden causing everyone to look at her questionably.

...What? Nobody was going to believe that either. I gulped knowing that none of this was adding up and everybody was going to catch on to it real quick. I froze suddenly in the middle of waiting for Eleanor to continue and I felt a set of eyes lingering on me. I didn't want to but…

I glanced up only to see Alvin with folded arms staring at me with so much confusion. His facial muscles were relaxed and his jaw slightly clenched as he looked over me like he knew something was up.

He scanned over me up and down like he just couldn't put his finger on it, then he shook his head and perked up at the sound of Eleanor's voice.

"Brittany already came in first to help me when I was feeling...sick…", her voice sounded uneasy as she turned towards me, " So I wanted to get back to the table 'cause I'd been in here long enough."

...I was at a loss of words. I hope she had a good excuse ready because her stupid decision to leave without fixing herself up because she simply didn't want to be near me was costing us big time.

So basically her story thus far was saying she had felt sick and went to the bathroom where I came to check on her, then Jeanette came to help out Eleanor decided to come back and check on everybody which would be what everyone had beat her to the punch to just now. And what now?

"B-but...", Eleanor spoke up before anyone could register, "Jean um..said she will help me freshen up and then we'll see you guys back out there in like another second, it shouldn't take long.", Eleanor finished and stared straight at me as if daring me to contradict anything she said.

I tried not to appear hurt seeing as though she didn't want my help or anything, just Jeanette's. That was her way of saying she still didn't want to be near me at all. Even though everybody known to man knew that if there was a hair/makeup emergency, I was always the one that was called upon.

I couldn't help but suck in a breath and feel a white hot burst of anger and it was written all over my face.

Everyone's face took an unexpected turn. Simon furrowed his brows together while Theodore glanced between us uneasily, " Well...I mean that's fine, Ellie. But…", Theo fumbled and folded his lips together looking as though he was trying to decide between playing along or choosing his emotions and asking for the truth.

Theodore let out a sharp breath out of nowhere, " Well why didn't you get all that cleared up before you stepped outside?"

Ouch. Um...

We all turned towards Theodore and faced him with our faces read clear with shock and bewilderment. His tone was curt and harsh like he was trying to cut through her and leave more than a mark.

I blinked between him and Eleanor who now looked in shock as her face began to turn red at being caught in what we were all trying to hide.

Her face knew she had just made a crappy move. But...where was this side of him coming from?

Simon looked taken back at Theodore's rigid remark and scanned his brother cautiously. The air in the room immediately became thick and heavy. He cleared his voice putting a hand on Theodore's shoulder. Simon had to have done that with the utmost bravery because right now, Theodore's comment alone was enough to scare me.

I gripped Jeanette's arm tightly and inched into her wanting to disappear and vanish right now, but there was nowhere to run. She even had a look of uncertainty plastered across her face as she darted back and forth between Dave, the boys, and Eleanor. Slowly, she bit her lip in anticipation and squeezed me closer to her.

"Hey, Theo.", Simon tried while his hand still rested on Theodore's shoulder, he peered onto him with genuine concern, " Listen, its alright, Eleanor just needs to-

"No. You don't get it.", Theodore stated shrugging off Simon's hand leaving a very confused and disturbed trail of shock on his indigo-eyed brother's face. Theodore almost seemed like a different person at this point. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't afraid at what I thought he might say or do next.

"Eleanor you can't…", Theodore tried to adjust himself licking his lips and throwing one hand on his head running it through his hair and clenching it tightly. He let out another deep breath and rocked back and forth in impatience.

Dave balled his hand into a fist and brought it over his mouth, clearing his voice, " Theodore, come on you heard her. There isn't a problem with any of this, Eleanor just said she was feeling a little ill."

Theodore wasn't even paying attention, he didn't even glance at Dave. His eyes were still facing Eleanor, "Do you even realize... how long you have been in there already?! On our night?", he questioned as his voice picked up.

All of us looked at one another unsure of what to do. The remark alone left us all itching to know why he was so angry..

Theodore was supposed to be the most caring and understanding of us all kind of like Jeanette…

Now he was acting like a totally different person…But why?

Eleanor gazed sadly at Theodore with the most hurtful expression ever and my heart broke all over again. Her lime green eyes got bigger and a tearful expression hurried to meet her face and she had the most defeated look I've ever seen not believing her best friend was acting like this.

The feeling was honestly mutual. I wanted to reach out and hug her as she clinged onto Dave begging with hopeless eyes for Theodore to understand.

I wanted to do something, but…

I felt the chill of the air get to me and I did not let go of Jeanette, again. I didn't say anything.

Alvin's face is what really bugged me. He didn't even look as though he had a problem with Theodore's remark. That was really weird. Weren't Alvin and Eleanor being all buddy-buddy today anyway? Shouldn't he have jumped into rescue his new best friend? Or at least try and set Theo straight like Simon?

I was frozen , but in a moment of weakness brought my eyes to Alvin's . His arms were crossed still and he had his sight set on Eleanor anticipating what was going to happen next. His eyes darted back between Eleanor and Dave before he snorted and looked away.

I paused as Alvin closed his eyes and slowly pulled himself together taking a deep breath.

I bit my lip scanning him up and down wondering how long this night was going to last or how long it would be until me and Alvin see each other again. Seeing him this close reminded me of how much I missed him and how much I wanted us to work something out some kind of way, even if it didn't make sense, or was against the rules.

As I was about to look away, his eyes opened and narrowed at me, his arms still crossed and his lips curled into a small smirk. A small gasp escaped me and I cuddled closer to Jeanette blushing looking away.

What the hell is going on? He won't stop looking at me!

" I…", Eleanor tried to say and I froze and caught sight of Alvin again who was watching me intently like he could read right through me , only he didn't have a smirk on his face, he wasn't showing any more emotion.

A huge blush was plastered across my face remembering his actions from earlier and I felt an icy hot feeling pressed inside me. Reminding me of how much I wanted to explain myself to him. Reminding me of how scary this all was becoming.

I turned away fast for a second time. A small muffled shriek coming out of my mouth that only I could hear.

I knew that look. I had seen it before. When Alvin looked at me like that...it meant he was going to get the truth out of me and there wasn't anything that was gonna stop him.

Eleanor coughed lightly glancing at the ground and snapping me out of my thoughts.

Alvin had redirected his attention towards her too. She cleared her voice again before facing Theodore again," Theodo-...Theo…. I-I..I told you I wasn't feeling well."

"Eleanor, you can't always use the same excuse. You have to change it up sometimes.", Theodore confirmed trying to hold back his anger. His nostrils flared and he was beginning to breath a little more noticeably. He brought his hand down from his head and stared intently at her.

"Eleanor you-whatever your problems are...you just-you just can't always run from them!", Theodore balled his fists up and fixed his gaze on her with a look of resentment. We all stopped short at what he was saying.

Where was all this coming from?

Eleanor held on to his gaze locking eyes with him and looked on with disbelief as her whole world looked like it had come crashing down, " Theodo-...where…where is all this coming from?", she brought a hand to her already pounding forehead and I felt immensely guilty seeing her look so defeated.

We already had it in the bathroom and now her best friend was attacking her.

We all glanced around at each other unsure of what our next move should be. What was brought on first by me and now by her best friend was causing Eleanor to shake.

"This is the same excuse you said when we were meeting the people in charge of the Food Industry for our restaurant deal.", Theodore continued as his voice picked up, "When they were telling us that we couldn't do it on our own and you left for the bathroom and didn't come out for so long because you weren't 'feeling well'. Remember?"

I didn't know what to say. There was nothing to say.

You mean to tell me when Eleanor and Theodore were trying to get the contracts for the deal, Eleanor had run to the bathroom not feeling well? But, that's not what kept her in the bathroom here so long..

It was because of me

We were fighting. That wasn't Eleanor's fault, it just all came out at once. We ...we didn't mean for it to go this far. But...they didn't know that...Theodore didn't know that…

Theodore kept going on bitterly reminding Eleanor of the past and I felt a large weight drop inside of me. It was my fault we were in there for so long, not hers. She had went in to use the bathroom or make a phone call about me or whatever!

She didn't go in there for the reason Theodore thought it was...not as an evasive maneuver. But there was no way for us to admit the exact reason of what kept us both in there for so long. It was too personal.

This was a time that I knew Eleanor needed me and I could be standing up for her instead of watching her hurt. But, I knew for sure that I didn't have the heart to say it. I couldn't.

I couldn't let them all know what we were hiding. Choosing to save myself...was choosing to leave Eleanor behind...just like when I left the group.

And now she was here suffering again.

What I wanted to tell Theodore was that Eleanor wasn't leaving to hide in the bathroom because she had a problem with anything-well, except me of course. All she did was go to the bathroom. The only reason why she was in there so long was because of me. When we were arguing.

I had never meant for us to be that long in there but...everything just came out. I was just so mad.

Everything of what Theodore was saying was telling us that this couldn't be the first time Eleanor had 'run away' to the bathroom if she had a problem, it sounded like she had done this on several occasions.

…But I know that when you had a problem...that automatically put you in some form of stress.. The bathroom must've always been Eleanor's escape point…

The place where she could go and release all of her problems.

The place where nobody could see her.

The place...where no one could see her cutting herself.

No!

Is that what she did? She ran off when the corporate people of the Food Industry told them they weren't good enough? Was that what she did when her and Theodore were told that they needed me and Alvin to show up just in order to get the public riled up to come?

"...how could you think it was okay to do that again this time? This night, of all night, Eleanor?!", Theodore went on throwing his hands up and slapping them down at his sides, " I need you to be here with me. We're a team! I mean I just don't-

"Theodore!", Eleanor interrupted with a choked sob rubbing her forehead. Her face was beginning to look as pink as it was earlier when we were having our heated discussion. " Please, just stop, okay. I can explain everything. I….", her voice trailed off and her bottom lip was trembling because she was thinking the same thing as I was right now.

She didn't go in that bathroom for whatever reason Theodore was thinking of.

We stayed in there for a long time because of our fight...but that was a secret. A secret hat would also expose her secret.

And...as much as I didn't believe it before, I had no reason not to believe it now. Theodore didn't know about that secret and exposing the fight would be exposing the secret.

I gulped hard. Pressing into Jeanette as I gazed upon everyone who were all gathered together in this hallway. A strong sudden flow to the air conditioner in this area made me shiver even linked closely with Jeanette.

Normally, the air would have made me feel better after my sickness, now it only made me more sobered up and well aware of the elephant in the room.

I began to notice the hoots and hollers of those coming from the well-lit area of the main room.

Again, I wanted to curse them for having a good time without me. The fact that they were able to arrive here guilt free of any media or extra affiliations that they had to be involved with.

Everyday of my life seemed like a never-ending thriller.

And being the star of it every single season wasn't sitting right with me.

"Hey.", Dave spoke up shooting Theodore a warning look rubbing Eleanor's shoulder. She leaned into him covering her face letting more tears fall while Dave continued, " How about Eleanor just goes along with Jeanette like she wanted to fix up everything before she comes back out and then everything will be back to normal, alright?"

Theodore didn't seem too happy with that. He still looked like he felt angry, but his eyes were telling a different story, he looked like he simply wanted to know what was up with his best friend.

He looked sorry for her. This was supposed to be their night and they had hardly spent it together.

"He's right, Theo", Simon agreed putting an arm around Theodore's back. I was surprised he was so forgiving even after how Theodore brushed it off earlier, but that was how Simon was and that was really what I liked about him, how forgiving he was. I thought that's how Theo was too, but…

" Just let them go and get all that female stuff situated and everything will be fine. She's not gonna leave you behind. Plus, we're all still here for you.", he finished giving Theodore a light squeeze.

Theodore still had a concerned look on his face as he gazed at his friend, my sister, who was still covering her face leaning into Dave trying to stop crying.

Dave continued to rub her shoulders consoling her Theodore nodded quickly before clearing his voice quickly regretting his actions, " Uh..uhm….y-yeah. No, that's fine. Yeah..", he sighed deeply pressing his lips into a tight frown and casted a glance at the ground.

Theodore then rose back up after a second and then took another deep breath taking both palms and running them over his face in heavy frustration, " I'm sorry, Ellie. Sorry for shouting at you like that. I...I didn't mean it, okay?", his face was full of heavy remorse.

Eleanor didn't respond, instead she kept on crying leaning into Dave's shoulder. Dave gazed down at her and sighed...well... we all did. He shook his head slowly and sadly spreading his natural empathy over the situation, " Just give her some time Theodore, maybe what she needs is her sister's right now ." , Dave responded in place of Eleanor who was still covering her face sobbing lightly .

Jeanette slowly maneuvered her way around me letting me go and went to console Eleanor taking her shoulders, turning her around and whispering in her ear preparing to lead her away, "...Okay Eleanor?..Yeah...we will….um..", Jeanette ran a hand through her brunette locks sheepishly and turned towards us , " We'll catch up with you guys in a second, okay? It'll only be a minute, I promise."

We all waved her off as she led Eleanor away to the ladies room. They left holding each other and in a flash, their footsteps echoed down the fall and soon vanished as they headed left down the next hall. Then as if we never heard them, then they were gone.

When I turned around, Theodore still had an upset look on his face with his mouth slightly open as he watched his best friend disappeared on what was supposed to be their night. Immediately, I felt a shiver of regret find its way into my heart and guilt slowly consumed me.

Why did I have to start a fight in there? Of all places, on all nights? But, wait. No, it wasn't me , I was trying to fix this, I wanted to fix this.

But I just stood there while she was clearly under attack! That made me just as guilty!

Simon put his arm on Theodore's shoulder and whispered some words only he could hear.

In a second, when it seemed like Theodore's heartfelt eyes were gonna leak, he in an instant blinked back tears and regained his composure and nodded.

Though, he still kept another look lingering out as if hoping Eleanor would return, and in a instant, Simon brought his arm around Theodore and nudged him a bit.

Theodore sniffed and blinked a few times, " That's my best friend Simon…", he sniffed a few more times before continuing, " I can't understand why she's been like this ever since...you know."

Simon continued to keep his arm around Theodore's shoulder letting him have all of his empathy and support. Instantly, seeing all the care Simon was showing Theo was reminding of Jeanette coming to Eleanor's aid.

That's what I admired about Simon and Jeanette. They were like the rocks who held us all together.

Alvin had uncrossed his arms and sighed deeply taking a step forward. He turned towards me and gazed at me for a split second before redirecting his attention to Theodore.

My mouth was dry….Alvin was standing right next to me and my heart was off a beat. Thoughts from earlier crashed into me rapidly. The taunts... the stares… I could smell his cologne wrap its way around my body and keep me under his trance. At that moment I was frozen.

I had to think of something-anything!

Quickly, I ran my hands through my long auburn curls fluffing them a bit and tried to focus on the matter at hand. I licked my lips and noticed that my legs and feet were wobbly. I wasn't able to stand still and my heart was beating like a drum.

"Everything will be fine, Theodore.", Dave spoke into clarification running a hand through Theodore's hair, " Don't worry about Eleanor, she's a tough girl. Whatever is going on, she'll tell you, okay?" Alvin, Simon, and me were all listening intently to him.

I bit my lip and antagonized myself even further of what was ahead. I couldn't take all this bad news in one night.

Theodore was supposed to be the light of all of us. The one that brought happiness and joy to us all. How could he not be doing his job tonight? He brought us so much joy and happiness…

Even Simon and Jeanette who were the rocks seemed to be doing their jobs correctly, but

Theodore and Eleanor..both seemed to break tonight. And I knew I was gave the domino effect that caused it all.

I was soon aware at how quiet everyone had become. I could tell nobody really understood what was going on and why everything wasn't making sense. I could also tell that if one of us was to reveal something, it would reveal another unspoken secret that wasn't supposed to be let out.

Dave went over and Simon took his hand off from around Theo so Dave could hug him.

Theodore paused for a moment, not knowing what to do as his father wrapped his hands around him and then Theodore's eyes started welling up and he hugged Dave back and gave a light sob muttering something into Dave who nodded in understanding.

I was unable to hide the hurt I felt all around my face. I wanted to hide my hurt, but the stress of today had took its toll on me and I wanted to scream all over. How was this all happening, why was this happening?

Could I have really caused all of this to happen with one decision? One decision of simply wanting to be free? To do things on my own? Why did I always have to get all the bad breaks, what about Alvi-

"Alvin.", a deep voice spoke out. I snapped out of it and looked to see Dave letting go of Theodore as Simon brought his arm across Theodore's shoulder checking over him to make sure he was okay.

Simon spoke some words to Theodore as he led him around and away from us. They took a couple of steps and Simon turned around towards us looking at Alvin and Dave, but seeing as though their eyes were locked, Simon directed his attention towards me instead.

"We're going back to the table, we'll catch up with you guys, okay?", Simon stated and I smiled sheepishly and waved him off. "Yeah…", I breathed out, " We'll catch up…" I wanted to go and walk with him but my legs wouldn't move. Simon appeared like he had something important to say to Theodore so I'd rather not get involved.

Jeanette and Eleanor were in the bathroom...Simon and Theodore were on their way back. I didn't know where I belonged...

This time, I was all alone...

And the only ones that were left were...

Oh no.

Alvin had his arms crossed and eyed Dave unamused with no emotion. A sudden breeze swept through the room almost on impact.

I suddenly remembered it was the air conditioner sweeping past me and not the ghost in the room. I froze still when I remembered that I was the last one here. The last one except for..

" Alvin.", Dave began again peering on to him taking a step forward to meet him face to face. Still Alvin remained unmoved, the encounter was like I wasn't even in the room. Still I waited, unsure of whether I should leave or stay. I think it was a little too late for all of that.

"Yes, Dave.", Alvin responded in his smooth baritone voice capturing my attention and leaving a pleasantly racing feeling across my chest.

" Do you have any idea about how this got started?", Dave spoke into clarification leaning forward. I could still hear the ballroom area growing louder from all of the guests out there enjoying themselves, still not knowing what was going on back here.

"How what got started?", Alvin replied cooly though he now had a confused look on his face. I watched the gold chain around his chest and traced my eyes over him wondering why he hadn't really said much. He had no issue at the table when it came to speaking.

But wait…

Did he know anything about why Eleanor was acting this way? I mean I knew I did, there was no doubt about that. But, had...had he and Eleanor grown closer over the years. A rotten thought crossed my mind. For my sake, I hope that wasn't true.

Regardless of who it was, I didn't like any other female being around him, even he knows this!

Dave stood up taller and cleared his voice, " Don't play dumb with me, Alvin. When something happens, you always have a way of knowing about it before it starts and then playing innocent like you knew nothing about it."

Now I was raising my eyebrows. This was the most man I've seen out of Dave tonight. Where was all this coming from, I mean he was right but…

Alvin laughed sarcastically watching the man he called father in disbelief, "Dave, seriously?", he said with a sarcastic laugh shaking his head, " You really think I had something to do with this? I haven't even seen Eleanor all day, I don't know what's up with her!"

I studied them carefully. I didn't know who or what to believe! Dave wasn't exactly lying when he said he knew about how Alvin always had to word on what was up with anything, then he goes and tries to hide it. But, Alvin was acting looking like he was genuinely confused.

" I have no idea what you're even talking about, I'm just as shocked as you are!", Alvin raised his voice a little bit and a part of me wanted to bury myself in my grave right now.

I knew that Alvin and Dave had their moments, but these moments were different than the ones I was used to .

For a moment, I saw a faint glimpse of the past of Alvin getting into all his shenanigans and putting me in the middle of some. Shushing me as he lied and talked his way out of some of the most unruly of pranks.

If he could talk his way out of those, he could definitely talk his way out of this one.

Dave was quiet for a while and for a second, the whole room stood still. Quietness was a virtue and the smell of gourmet food begun to linger in the air and my stomach growled. I brought a hand over it and cursed lightly.

On second thought, I maybe should have caught up with Simon and Theodore the first chance I got despite how nosy I was being.

But, was it really being nosy if they started this right in front of me?

Dave stared down at Alvin with a presence I had never seen before. His eyes darkened and he took a step closer to him and lowered his voice not taking his eyes off of him, " Alvin. If I find out that you had something to do with this-

"But I didn't, I just told you that.", Alvin shot back uncrossing his arms and balling his fists together taking a step towards Dave. Blood pulsed through my veins and I started to feel dizzy.

Oh gosh, I hope they weren't going to start fighting right now! Why did Simon and Theodore have to leave? I needed them to come back!

Dave took a deep breath and watched Alvin unintimidated. The booming in my chest was becoming louder and louder, it felt like my heart was about to come out of my chest.

Seconds passed and it felt like years had went by. Still nothing happened and we were still standing in the hallway. I didn't know what to do.

Dave lowered his voice again and and shot Alvin a look, " Let me find out you had something to do with this and you know what will happen." Alvin's eyes shot up in defense and confusion, " I just told you-

"I don't want to hear it. I'm warning you, whatever is going on, you better not let me hear about it. ", Dave finished coldly and stepped back. A shiver ran down my back.

Alvin looked bewildered and shook his head in disbelief at Dave taking a step backwards throwing his hands up, " You know what, fine. You don't want to hear me, right? Because you never believe me anyways, so why should I even bother?!", his voice got louder and my lips trembled at the sudden change of events.

What was going on, why were they acting like this? So cold to each other..what happened? At this point, I didn't know who was telling the truth!

"U-um...you guys?", I barely squeaked out.

" Alvin. Alvin stop.", Dave demanded putting his hand up prompting Alvin to quit. " I don't want to deal with this. You heard what I said-

" But that's just it. I always gotta hear what you said…", Alvin motioned with one palm out towards Dave, " ...but you never hear what I say! Ever! You don't ever have a problem listening to Simon and Theodore, just just me, right? Right?!"

I was so out of it, it felt like I was watching a movie. I couldn't be here right now. I knew Alvin and Dave had their difficulties but...this wasn't just some small thing they could talk about. It was something that had been going on for a while.

I glanced between the both of them, unsure of what to say. I knew this was Eleanor's family owned restaurant and because of that I held a connection to it, but for a second I felt out of place, like a stranger.

My palms were sweaty and my chest was shaking. I cautiously took a step back and hugged my arms around my body.

Oh gosh, just stop! I can't take all of this anger and tension in one day! Just stop!

This was more than just a father-son thing, this was something real. Something that went on. I slammed my eyes shut and opened them trying to make it go away, but it just wouldn't. Somewhere sometime...in the last two years...something had to happen. Between Alvin and Dave, something tore them apart.

I didn't recognize them anymore.

Dave's eyes darkened and he went silent. A cold chill passed through me and I withdrew my glance and faced Alvin whose eyes matched the man he called father.

Or the man he refused to call father judging by the sarcasm spewing from his voice when he called Dave 'dad' earlier.

I gulped and my chest felt tight like something was squeezing it tightly and wouldn't let go. I felt uncomfortable in my own body. I sniffed and glanced between them. Part of me wanted to go to the table, but in order to do that…

Dave raised his hand up and pointed at him, "Alvin, for the last time I said I'm warning you."

"How many times are you going to say that, Dave?", Alvin snorted and took a step forward, " Don't you know you've been saying that every single time since-

A croaked squeak emerged from the floor and both of them perked up and looked in my direction. My heel and dug into the tile as I took a step back with every last bit of strength within me wanting to get away.

My icy blue eyes amplified at the moment of being caught and moved frantically between them.

Oh no..oh gosh.. I swear what I would give for a giant hole to swallow me up right now!

Both Dave and Alvin kept their eyes on me lingering, then Alvin broke the stare and turned back to Dave who watched as my shaky leg returned to its original standpoint.

"...I...I...sorry..I ..", I groaned in defeat taking my gaze to the ground knowing darn well I knew I didn't have anything more of what to say.

Dave pressed his lips together and brought himself into deep thought before shaking his head altogether,"No. You know what? No. We're not gonna do this here." Dave backed up throwing his hands up, " I'm not gonna do this with you-tonight, Alvin. I'm going to go back to the table but we will discuss this later, do I make myself clear?

At that Alvin stood shaking his head at Dave muttering something under his breath. He blinked and straightened up and crossed his arms, his gold chain reflecting in the light of the cream colored hallways. After that, nothing came out of his mouth.

My bottom lip trembled. Whether it was from Alvin's smooth demeanor or from the tension he was causing all around us. It was causing me to forget how to breathe.

Another second passed and Dave's eyes grew cold once more and I winced. He slapped his hands down making a sharp clapping noise and opened his mouth, " For pete's sake, AL-

"Alright, I hear you.", Alvin replied firmly not changing the demeanor in his voice. He gave Dave the same unintimidated stare and his arms remained crossed. My chest was like fire and my body was ice. The unusual combination caused a stirring in my already aching body as I watched the interaction between the two.

No matter what, I was gonna make it my business to find out about what happened with them. Something had to happen. I couldn't watch this anymore.

"Ahem.", I brought my hand to my mouth clearing my voice finding the strength to make myself more known.

Dave brought his attention towards me and stepped over and wrapped his arms around me engulfing me in a quick apologetic hug.

I choked on a gasp of air smelling Old Spice on his body while my hands found his way around his back in a shy attempt to squeeze him back.

I soon felt Dave's hand hound his way through my auburn hair and he scrunched it and gave me a kiss near my forehead, "I'm sorry you had to see that, Brittany. I'll see you out at the table, okay? Don't be too long."

As quickly and sudden as that embrace begun, it was soon over. The release of the warmth chilled my heart reminding me of how alone I basically felt. Here, I was standing with my whole life a showcase for everyone to see, but still I held so many secrets…

Dave pulled away and began to turn around and walk making a slight stop at Alvin narrowing his eyes at him . Alvin stared boldly at him as if daring him to say something and then, shaking his head firmly, Dave then brushed past Alvin and headed straight down the rest of the hallway without another word.

Alvin raised his brows in surprise with his arms still crossed as the man he disrespected all night walked right by and refused to acknowledge him as his footsteps echoed down the hall.

I slowly began to bring my hand over my mouth in perceived shock as Dave carried his steps away around the corner like he barely knew him.


" Glad that's finally over."

….!

I snapped out of my thoughts and my heart leaped hearing the baritone in his voice light a fire into my already vulnerable spirit.

Alvin breathed out a breath of annoyance, " He always walks away when he hears the truth. Fucking coward." I was floored. I didn't know what to think as I saw Alvin's indigo eyes watched the floor with a face I couldn't read.

For a second, I thought he regretted his words...I thought he-

I gasped as the air stole my voice.

His gorgeous cerulean eyes locked right at me and instantly stole my breath away. That's when I realized we were the only ones in the hallway. Both of us.

Alone.

Alone at last?

I wasn't sure…

I was shaky, This wasn't what I wanted..or…

" H-hey.", I sheepishly squeaked out. My head and my heart was pounding and something felt like it was going to pop out of my chest. Alvin uncrossed his arms and stood up taller from where he was, " Hey.", he spoke with no sign of shyness. I clenched my stomach and whimpered.

I didn't know whether to laugh or be afraid. I did want to be alone with him but its been so long...but Alvin always had…

" You gonna say something to me, Brittany?", he cocked a sleazy eyebrow and began to make his way towards me smiling. That alone was making my heart jump and squeal in excitement. But nervousness danced around me and I took a step back.

...Alvin always had...this effect on me..

My eyes couldn't hold their composure and my vision tried to adjust and I blinked rapidly. I gulped and my face was pink as I drank him in. His black and red attire made him appear so mysterious even in the brightly lit hallway.

His gold chain matched the glint in his cerulean orbs while he took another step towards me and I could see the tease of his chest from the few buttons that were undone on his deep red dress shirt.

Alvin stood and towered over me with the hint of a smirk across his lips. Another whimper silently escaped from my throat and I gulped and kept my mouth slightly ajar as his husky cologne filled my lungs and captured me.

My mind was screaming for me to run away and go meet the others at the table, but I wouldn't allow myself to move.

For the love of...why couldn't I look away?

Alvin had one raised brow and his gaze was amplified at me, " What? ", he said with mock confusion followed by a snicker. I snapped out of it and struggled to get words out of my mouth. I hit him in the chest and began to push him away, " Ugh, nothing! Just lemme' get back to the table before I -

"Woooah girl. No, not yet.", Alvin voiced over me grabbing both my wrists that were now hanging loosely in his hands tingling from the electricity he gave effortlessly. My shoulders slumped , the magnetic force raced through my chest and held me in place.

I gulped and fell silent. "Wha...what?", I uttered and remained upright not taking my eyes off of his captivating stare.

Alvin locked eyes with me. And for a moment...nothing else mattered. I began to feel all of my troubles.. my worries...slowly be pushed to the back of my mind as I gazed deep into his orbs.

The rhythmic rise and fall of his chest was deeply hypnotic. For a few more seconds, his eyes watched me scanning my face once again that look of yearning.

How was he able to do that? Simply go from flirty to drop dead serious in a second? Like it was so easy for him I didn't know what to believe! I could barely hold myself from the exotic scent lingering in the air off of him and on to me.

Seconds felt like they were turning into minutes.

The sudden urge to touch him and a deep craving filled my spirit. I wanted to make it stop. But the urge...the urge was telling me to come along for the ride.

And before I knew it , Alvin gently let go of my wrists grazing his hands around me and took me in pulling me close to him and my arms on instinct wrapped around his neck and I pulled him tight into my body laying my head on his shoulder breathing in lovingly.

My whole body was trembling from both fatigue and excitement as he cradled me in his arms holding me tightly.

I wanted to smack him-hit him, and push him away, but his scent wrapped its way around me in a complete heavy rapture and brought me into a world I had thought I left behind and I felt so...vulnerable and passionate. I breathed in deeply and felt all my cares waste away.

In that same moment, I knew that if anyone-anyone walked by right now and saw us together, there would be hell to pay in tomorrow's headlines.

Not to mention that everyone literally had a camera installed in their phone by default so they'd have the dang pictures to prove it.

To prove that we are together when we are not, to make me seem like I'm just one of his fangirls, to destroy everything I ever worked for by making me into just one of his girlfriends-

"Oh-hh..", I moaned into him as he squeezed me tighter as if to shut my over-reactive mind up. I felt Alvin's lips close to my neck and his silent breaths hitting my shoulder telling me that he knew.

"You're such... a badass…", I stifled into Alvin's shoulder.

"Hmph.", I heard him snicker and say , " Who me?"

"You know what I'm talking about.", I leaned forward hanging onto him with a smirk of my own because Alvin knew. He knew what would happen if anyone saw us in this open hallway showing affection to each other like this.

He knew what it would mean for our careers.

But I...it just felt too good. He just felt too good.

Thinking about Alvin all day just left my mind in the gutter and I still didn't know how I felt about him. I mean I knew we were best friends still...but its still kind of complicated…

Alvin's hands were wrapped around me crushing me into him in a dynamic bliss and I didn't complain.

I breathed in his exotic scent and traced the back of his neck with my nails and rested against his toned body and shoulders.

I shouldn't care about any of those tabloids. What did any of those people know?! After a day that I had, they wish they could be right where I was right now!

No wait. Did I really want to throw all of my hard work away to be famous for being someone's chick? Or to be seen as loose? No, I couldn't. I loved what I have with Alvin, but I can't compromise my dreams and everything I have ever worked for.

- about earlier…", I heard him mumble into me. I yelped and snapped out of it clearing up a voice, " H-huh?", I managed yet my voice was still uneasy from the sheer amount of pleasure I was experiencing in his embrace.

Alvin breathed in again and paused for a few seconds before continuing, " I said I wanted to say sorry about earlier.", he rose up and met my eyes, " I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable to run off like that."

"I-I...", I stopped short and suddenly didn't have the words to continue. What was I supposed to say? For one thing though, he was right, that technically was the reason I did run off to the bathroom, but not the reason I had stayed in there so long.

I casually rose up to look at him rolling my eyes and scoffing, " I didn't…", I stopped as Alvin began to smirk mischievously at what I was about to say. He knew I was never gonna let him win that easily, " Ugh! I did not leave because of you Alvin. I just had to go to the bathroom like any other person, gosh!"

Alvin narrowed his eyes at me, " I know you don't actually expect me to believe that, princess." At that, I was trying to hold down my smile at his cocky demeanor trying not to giggle.

" If I made you feel so bad, then why didn't you just slap me in the face like you always do? When I...'act up' as you put it so nicely. Never stopped you before.", Alvin continued with clear amusement knowing that he was enjoying himself and clearly didn't care what I thought.

"I-uhmm...b-because...I..", I tried to come up with something quick.

"I'm waiting.", he declared.

A scowl made its way to my face out of the control he had without even trying and I was flushed. I unwrapped my arms from around Alvin's neck, " I-uh because! ", I sighed heavily, " Because...there were people around and I didn't want them to think something was up! 'Least I had some consideration when it comes to putting other people in uncomfortable situations, okay?!"

I shot him a look waiting for him to respond, but he didn't.

Alvin had his jaw clenched and his arms still wrapped around my waist. His fingers would occasionally graze against my lower back sparking a fire that went straight to my heart. I tried to ignore it...it wasn't working.

Alvin brought his navy blue eyes over mine and gazed at me in all seriousness. His eyes trailed down and then back up to meet mines again. I casually raised an eyebrow at him giving him a taste of his own medicine reminding him of his behavior before from earlier and then he sighed.

" Brittany.", Alvin began. No tone of humor rose up in his voice. I turned up a little more to meet him face to face, despite him still towering over me.

" Whatever I did to make you uncomfortable out there, I'm sorry, okay?", he went on as my eyes widened in realization and my hands began to throb along with my heart. I fell silent as he went on.

"In all honesty, whether you wanna confess it or not , I did not mean to work you up to the point of you having to leave the entire room because of me.", he held a painful look on his face and his eyes begged me to understand, " No matter what, you're my best friend and I don't wanna make you uncomfortable." Alvin responded and I felt my spirit soften upon feeling the true...honesty in his words.

"I'm sorry, okay?", he finished.

I felt my light blue eyes widen and I searched and scanned his face for any fault.

There was none.

He was telling the truth.

I breathed in deeply and began to take a step back but Alvin's arms kept me locked in place close to him. Panic rushed across me feeling how close we were. My chest was tight and pushed up against him and my heart began to race and pound. I bit my lip and rose up to meet his eyes.

I was a bit taken over by how true, and really sorry he looked as I inspected him, there was no impression of pretending in his features. Pools of ocean blues peered down on to me and gazed at me steadily.

The action alone literally took my breath away and I began to notice how truly honest he was being.

Alvin didn't want to see me hurt...

A blush rose to my cheeks once I realized I hadn't said anything for a while. I dropped my head and brought my hand over my now warm cheek rubbing it and brought my other one hand to maneuver its way down on to his torso. The soft fabric on his dress shirt and blazer felt all too real.

I felt cautious, unprepared for what next move I was to make at this point. Clearing the excess in my voice, I subtly focused on trying to remember how to breathe.

"I-I...um…", I drew back bowing my head and tried to pull myself together rubbing the back of my neck at this heartfelt apology I had never really heard from him before. Either that, or it had been a long time since I got one of those. I glanced down away from his captivating stare.

" Yes?", I heard the smile in Alvin's voice and his fingers across my waist were taken off. Instantly, he took both of my wrists from me again and placed them around the back of his neck where I was forced to look at him.

"Talk to me, Brittany.", he wrapped his hands back around my waist and scooted me closer to him. " You know I'll just get it out of you one way or another.", at that Alvin grinned and gave me that evil smile and my blush quickly turned red.

I exhaled sharply at his tone of voice, "I said I was feeling sick Alvi-mmph!

I yelped as his hand found its way squeezing and scrunching the back of my hair tightly bringing my head into his shoulder tilting it to the side. My eyes fluttered softly and my heart sighed as firm lips were pressed against against my neck, " Mmm, how long are you planning on saying that?", he whispered huskily against me grinning giving me few more pecks on my neck.

My eyes began to close as I let out the smallest breath exhaling, my heart jumped and emotions of bewilderment ran down my weak and frail body. Against my better judgement, I began to bring my hands back over his shoulders and lightly graze my fingers across his neck.

I tried to adjust to what was happening. I couldn't find words to say. The hallway was spinning and becoming a distorted pool of tans, pinks, and creams. "Whoa-I...Alvi-...", I blinked rapidly feeling how cold my body was, but how warm he felt close to my neck.

The odd icy-hot mixture was something I hadn't experienced in a long time and I welcome the spell it casted over me.

At that, Alvin leaned back and paused looking me over before leaning against me before exhaling pressing his lips softly against my cheek letting them linger there for a while before pulling away. I sighed and locked my arms around his neck tighter groaning softly leaning my head onto his shoulder and let out a breath.

"You feel better, princess?", Alvin whispered closely to me.

I feel more than better...I was starting to feel alive...I was starting to feel on top of the world.

His affection alone was starting to release all of the worry and built up stress I've been holding for so long...

"All of this affection is beginning to remind me of last night.", I managed a small giggle that he returned just as fast. Alvin's hands began to rub my back in small circles chuckling lightly.

I relaxed and savored the moment of how close we were in this moment.

I was beginning to feel glad that I wasn't feeling as nervous as I was when we were at the table. It was crazy how someone could be your best friend, but still make you feel that way at the same time...I had forgotten how much I liked that about...us.

" Well, before the International Music Awards last night, I still can't really think of the last time we spent time together, y'know.", Alvin laughed and pulled me tighter to his chest.

I smiled and lovingly trailed my nails along the back of his neck gently with a small smile on my lips as his protection washed over me.

Memories flooded my mind from last night.

The loud applause of the audiences filled my ears. My deep ocean glittery long and blue halter-top dress from last night trailed up the stairway when my name was announced and I came to accept my reward. Screams were heard all around the auditorium as I blew a kiss to the crowd and thanked everyone who helped bring me to the top.

I remembered my manager meeting me on the red carpet outdoors in front of the paparazzi after I was done answering questions and taking pictures with my award. Tony was telling to be out in the front on the other side in fifthteen minutes, but the fancy buffet full of cake arrangements was calling my name.

And that's when Alvin came and pulled me away.

We hid, ran, and laughed all the way to the secret secluded lounge room. Even though we weren't supposed to be in there, we stayed until I had to go. I loved the way Alvin taught me to live. Taught me how to run, how to mess up, how to live a life with no rules.

In complete freedom, with no regrets.

It felt like it happened years ago, but it was only last night. Sometimes today it felt like it was still last night, especially with how I felt right now. Time stood still in my world.

I could still hear Alvin's steady breathing against me and his hands were still rubbing my back in slow circles telling me he was experiencing the same flashbacks I was.

I know I should be worried in case somebody comes and spots us..but I just didn't wanna leave….when were we gonna get another moment like this?

If we were going to get another moment.

I sat and thought for a second, thinking of something to say and instead let out another sigh pulling him tighter to me. Alvin quickly responded by squeezing me a bit in return and I sighed deeply against him again.

" I'm just tired, Alvin.", I told him.

Feeling the comfort he gave wash over me, I soon began to feel just how completely exhausted I felt. All these emotions, all of this stuff that has happened today. It was just so much happening and it was all plunging ahead of me and I was powerless to stop it.

" I know you are.", Alvin casually admitted with a laugh and he leaned into my ear, " That's why you're coming home with me tonight."

My jaw dropped and I rose up to look at him. This was some sort of sick joke? It had to be! I met Alvin's cerulean orbs and searched his face and yet there was that same evil smirk on his face.

I shook my head abruptly, thoughts of my very busy schedule tomorrow filling my head combined with the silent excitement of being with him filled my already weary head and I couldn't think straight, " Wait, Alvin- I…you want…"

" Yes.", Alvin leaned in closer to me face grinning at the sheer pleasure he was getting from the complete shock on my face. A pink blush found its way across my face. I turned to look behind me to see if my sisters were out of the bathroom and then looked forwards to see if anyone was coming.

My voice lowered down into a whisper even though no one was around, " Are you crazy?!", I exclaimed in disbelief, " Do you know what-

"I know that we haven't been able to be around each other for longer than a few minutes for months now.", Alvin prompted with no sign of backing down. " Come on, Brit, just think about it for a second, how come-

" Do you know what will happen if somebody well, y'know, sees us trying to leave together?!", I stood and scowled at him curling my lip.

Deep inside I was honestly flattered to be invited to be with him...alone, but I couldn't let him know that. But I had to let him know what would happen if someone would see us together or find out!

Wait. But wasn't this my plan to begin with? Wasn't I supposed to be leaving anyway? This was already too much for me and I was thinking earlier about how much I wanted to leave with him...but why was I so worried now?

"Eep!", I heard footsteps coming down the hall and immediately hid and clinged on to Alvin clutching my tiny fists against his jet black blazer. Fear made its home in my body. He flinched the same as me and grabbed me. We both turned to look behind him and saw…

Nothing.

After a second, breath returned to our bodies and we faced each other again. Alvin opened his mouth to speak but stopped short and brought his eyes down to where my hands were clutching his shirt tightly and I began to realize my grip and let go as the red tints heated my cheeks.

Shoot. That was close. I don't want him thinking that I need him to protect me or something.

"Britt..", Alvin stated remaining in steady eye contact with me interrupting my thoughts, " Stop worrying about what everybody else thinks for a while, okay?"

I withdrew my glare and gave him a dumb look, " Oh yeah, what about Jeanette? Or Ele-", I bit my lip making it almost bleed as I realized my mistake, I couldn't let him know about what happened if I still was rooting on this whole 'tired/sick' thing. That was the 'real' reason I went to the bathroom and that's what I was gonna stick to.

"What about how me and Jeanette were supposed to do something back home tonight?", I made no attempt to hide my frustration reminding myself of the late night swim she suggested earlier that didn't sound all too bad, " I can't just let go of that promise to her. We never get to be around each other that much anymore."

Alvin snorted and shot me a look. I raised my eyebrows at him beckoning him to speak,

" You serious?", he asked disregarding my comment, " Britt come on, you freaking live with Jeanette, you get to see her every day."

I blinked twice and then shook my head abruptly and interrupted him throwing my hand up, " But-

"When's the last time you spent time with me?", Alvin caught my hand and stared deeply into my eyes. My eyes widened once I realized how close he was to my face. I began to get lost in the deep pools of ocean blues that circled his eyes.

I traced my glance around his radiant features and my heart began to throb.

I realized his hand was still laced and intertwined with mines and I couldn't hide the blush imprinted on my face. My eyes became desperate and begged him to understand why I couldn't get so caught up with him.

I wanted him more than anything, but our lives are so complicated now and Hollywood sees us as brand names more than people with private lives.

I blinked once then twice trying to formulate a time and a place of the last time we had some real time together that was pre-planned out. But I got nothing. He was right.

Alvin's hand soon wrapped and laced itself along with mines with his other arm still wrapped around my waist and I felt unsteady. I began to feel a rush of warmth all over, his stare lost within me and not letting me go.

When did he start having this powerful effect over me? Or was it always there?

I mean I have had such a long day...week….life in general...maybe a night with Alvin will release some of the built up stress I've been having...or maybe increase it more….I don't know...and does he really think I don't want to be around him?

And another time tonight, again, I felt genuinely sorry of how much I probably hurt him.

"Alvin…", I said quietly squeezing his hand softly, " I do want to spend time with you...but…", my voice trailed off and I couldn't find them to make him believe me fast enough.

"Then why don't you?", Alvin made no attempt to hide his question. He appeared like he was a little angry, but was doing his best to hide it and genuinely wanted answers. Answers I didn't have.

The answers I usually had were that I am busy, which I pretty much always am, or that I was afraid someone would see or find out. Those weren't necessarily bad answers, but they were ones I always gave and I could tell they were getting old to him.

The truth was, I didn't have another answer and I wasn't about to give him those old ones.

"Seems like you're always too busy for me, but whenever you want to hang out in the past I was always there.", he said matter-of-factly.

He...he deserved a real answer.

Thoughts flooded my mind of how fun it would be, how well-overdue and encounter with him was, and how fulfilling it would be to be together for one night but...I don't know. I can't decide…

"What are you afraid of?", Alvin spoke the words right out of my mind in all seriousness.

Was I afraid?

My eyes softened and I felt like apart of me was brought back to life. I let my hands trace the back of his neck again and he responded by rubbing my lower back again. " Hm?", he asked again telling me to speak.

"I don't know…", I sighed and grazed my hand down his neck to his shoulder and began to rub the muscles in his toned arm on his biceps letting my hands touch and linger across his forearms. Maybe he wasn't so angry as I thought he was after all. Despite it all, he was still being...rather affectionate. Maybe he was just hurt, and wanted answers.

I wanted answers too though…

I needed to know about Dave. I needed to know why Alvin and him were at a war with each other. I needed to know what happened. What caused them to hate each other so much.

Even earlier when Dave was asked about Alvin, he didn't really have much to say. I would ask now, but now didn't seem like sorta the right time. It was also pretty weird..how Alvin wasn't even mentioning the blow up that just happened...and I was too afraid to ask about it.

Alvin cocked his head and turned towards my hands that were now running up and down his arm and smirked raising his brows, " You're enjoying yourself aren't you?" He turned at me and I held the hint of a smile on my face.

I couldn't hide it. Apart of me wanted to tell him maybe in his dreams, but I couldn't say I was blind to how I was deeply enjoying being this close to him and having him all to myself.

I giggled and brought my hand to stroke the side of his neck again giggling lightly, " Maaaybe.", I started giggling again teasing and stroking the side of his neck daring him to say something. Alvin's lips curled into another smirk and he gazed down at me in silence and I hummed at my little joke seeing the look on his face.

Alvin's touch began to trail up and down my back creeping and stirring a passion deep within me. Every touch I felt from his hands caused my spirit to dance and swirl within me. I exhaled deeply and licked my lips drinking him in sighing to myself lovingly. I wanted to go with him but…

Then I remembered his question.

"I'm not afraid of anything.", I sang out to him with the hint of a blush on my face as I played with him smiling getting all up in his face. More giggles escaped me as I teased him effortlessly.

Alvin caressed my lower back and tugged me closer a little bit. Seconds passed slowly.

I didn't mean to lean forward. An unwavering force was pushing me closer to him. My heart rate picked up and my cheeks were flushed. I began to become lost in his cerulean ocean orbs so much I felt my lips tremble.

Alvin looked at my already parted lips and then back to my flushed face. His scent washed over me causing my heart to beat and throb uncontrollably.

At this moment...I didn't care who was around.

Alvin licked his lips in anticipation looking down to my lips then back to my icy blue eyes. and I let go of his hand and brought both my arms up back around his neck.

"I'm not afraid of anything.", I whispered silently to him gazing at him through the strand of curls over my eyes.

Alvin shook his head at me playfully and his lips curved upwards into a beautiful smile that lit up his entire face and I felt my spirit fall in love with his features. He began to take me in leaning forward into me.

"Come here.", he told me.

Finally.

I crashed my lips on to his and our mouths moved slowly at first with an unseen force driving us together. My eyes were slightly opened in bliss as his tongue moved and licked my lips gently. Alvin's hands caressed and trailed up and down my back firmly and a soft moan escaped me as I parted my mouth wider to deepen the kiss.

Our tongues met in after what seemed like forever, but was only last night and glided across each other licking and sucking. Loud, smacking noises were heard and I drew him closer to me. The softness of his touch was driving me crazy and I felt a fire-like explosion bursting in me like fireworks going off. The hotness of his mouth created an electricity that I hadn't felt in so long.

I gripped him tighter not wanting to ever let go.

Please don't let go.

"I missed you...", he moaned against me and took my lips again, his hand coming up to cup my face. It was completely intoxicating. His hand moved with care towards the back of my head gripping the silky, auburn curls in my hair tossing my head back a bit breaking our kiss. Alvin began kissing and nipping at my jaw and down to my neck where I gasped and let out a whimper feeling his warm lips begin to kiss me so tenderly there.

My mouth was opened in silent shock with my eyes shut tight, I couldn't describe the feeling. It felt so good that I began to pull away from the electricity and the pleasure I felt from his lips against my neck, but his grip on my hair kept me in place. There was nowhere to run. I held my arms in place around his shoulder pulling him closer while his tongue trailed over my neck followed by his lips kissing and tasting me.

At my whimper, Alvin released my hair from his manly grip and brought his lips against mine again moving hotly. Our tongues entwined with each others and then lingered in place frozen in time before he pulled away meeting my icy blue eyes again. I felt a longing I hadn't felt in such a long time as I stared back into Alvin's deep gaze with his face close to mine. He scanned my face for a couple of seconds and his lips curled into a handsome smile that lit up his entire face again and I felt my heart do the same.

If it wasn't Alvin's presence, his smile alone could keep me lost in his spell forever. He was truly gorgeous.

I laughed lightly and pulled him into a hug with my hands still wrapped around his neck and we rocked a bit as the heat and after-effect took over and a wave of pleasure sailed through me. "I missed you too..", I muttered into his neck breathing in his scent, "..sooo much…"

I felt Alvin breathe into my neck and pull back placing his lips onto my cheek and letting them linger before pulling away with a small smacking noise. He brought his head back into my neck and breathed in deeply again, " Mhmm…", he wrapped his arms around my shoulders and pulled me close.

My hands on instinct draped under Alvin's arms and on to his back and I squeezed him tight to me. Thoughts circled my head. I knew what I wanted to do...but there were so many pros and cons.

Plus, I was so tired and I didn't know what tomorrow had planned. I had stuff to do and to get done I know it.

"I'll um...let you know what I'm gonna do tonight, okay Alvin?", I muttered softly into him rubbing his back tenderly. My eyes draped across the floor lazily and I squeezed him one more time, " I just need a little time to think if I can be there, alright?"

Seconds past before either of us said anything and he didn't respond.

I opened my mouth to say something, but a deep growling sound from my stomach escaped from me and I remembered that we were still supposed to be at the table. I soon heard his voice chuckle right after.

" Just surprise me, Britt", Alvin laughed against me pulling me tightly to him kissing me on the cheek tenderly again, " But we both know what's gonna happen."

Who knows what was going to happen? Did I really want to come see him tonight? But what about my life? How was I supposed to make all of this work with everything I probably had planned tomorrow...I wanted answers about Dave and maybe Eleanor if Alvin did know what was up with the whole thing…

But, if I choose to go, what if somebody ends up seeing me leave with him...what would I tell Jeanette? Or even possibly my driver? There was still too many things I would have to think about...

Because no matter what happens, the truth still remained.

The night still wasn't over.


~* Author's Note *~

What if I told you guys that I kiiinda had a thing going on with a guy exactly like this during the 3 months I was totally absent from FF….yeah so I guess he kind of inspired that ending haha xDD

But he won't talk to me anymore so I'm really sad :,(

Sooo, is 70+ TOTAL pages good enough? I hope I kinds sorta made up for everything! Please don't hate meee! I worked for 3 months on this so I hope it was worth it! :,)

What did you think of it?! Remember if you like what you read , please drop me a line (review)! But please no angry mobs and pitchforks! Like noooo!

Till Then , L-ater!

AND IM STILL SORRY!

XoxTristinaaaDuhhhhxoX