"How is he?" Howie groaned to Leah as she stood in the doorway of the bedroom of the suite Howie had rented after the wedding.

She refused to enter the room. The stench had been so bad last night that she left his bed to sleep on the couch. It didn't help, AJ had gotten there first and she ended up in AJ's room of the suite.

"I think he's dead." She said, standing there with one and a half year old Caroline on her hip, her jean clad hips as slim as the day he met her.

"What?!" Howie gasped, lifting his head just a little too fast. He groaned and dropped his head to the bed again. He tried to open his eyes again, but his vision of her kept swimming before him.

"Well, I bet he wishes he was dead." She sighed.

"Aunt Leah?" Four and a half year old Alex asked, tugging on her shirt. "What's wrong?"

"Daddy and Uncle Howie are hung over." She smiled.

"Leah! Don't tell him that!" Howie snapped.

"Alex, why don't you go in the other room and get your Daddy." She smiled.

"He's in the bathroom."

"No doubt praying to the porcelain god." She smirked.

"Leah!" Howie growled.

"I rented the suite for another day. . ."

"Why did you do that? Check out is only at noon. . ."

"Howie, it's 3 in the afternoon. I wasn't going to carry the two of you downstairs." She said.

"It is?" he groaned.

In the distance, Leah could hear AJ retching in the bathroom. She smiled secretly to herself.

"Why don't you just take the children home. . ." Howie moaned.

"I can't. I promised Leighanne I was going to go shopping with her. You and AJ have to watch the children."

"We're in no condition to take care of the children." He groaned.

"That's hardly my fault. I think you better pull yourself together Howard. I'm leaving in 20 minutes and that's the last diaper change I'm doing on Caroline." She said.

"Leah. . . Leah! Don't you leave me with these children!" he protested to her back.

"I'm leaving in 20 minutes, Howard! And don't call Polly. She's coming with us!"

"Oh, crap." He groaned, trying to roll over.

"Can't you take them with you?" Howie heard AJ holler.

"No. Get up AJ!" Leah hollered back.

"Damnit!" AJ hollered.

"Don't cuss, AJ!" Howie yelled back, covering his own ears.

"Daddy? Are you okay?" Alex asked as AJ propped himself up between the toilet and the tub. What was left of his tux was stained and rumpled. He had no idea where the jacket, shoes and tie were. Only one of his feet had a sock on it.

"I'm fine, little man. Daddy's sick."

"No, Daddy's hung over." Leah said, coming up behind him.

"Leah, don't tell him that." He groaned. She could be a goddess, but right now she was the devil.

"I don't care what's wrong with either one of you. Get cleaned up, I'm leaving in 15 minutes." She said.

"Lee, you can't do this to me. Don't you have any feelings for me at all?" he groaned.

"Actually, no I don't. C'mon Alex, let's go color while Daddy and Uncle Howie take a quick shower." She said as Howie entered the bathroom from the adjoining bedroom. She closed the door with a bang and Howie practically toppled over.

"I'm glad I'm already on the floor." AJ said dryly.

"Move over." Howie said, sinking down.

"We better get up and get a shower." AJ sighed.

"Uh, huh." Howie grunted, but AJ knew Howie was falling back asleep on the cool tile floor. It looked too good, but he fought the urge.

AJ got up and began peeling off his own tux from last night. He sat Howie on the closed toilet and began to undress him.

"You know AJ. You're kinda cute." Howie smirked.

"Shut up, D." AJ grunted as he got Howie to his feet and yanked off his slacks and briefs.

"No, really. That whole little butt thing works for you." Howie chuckled as he flopped over AJ's back. AJ got Howie seated back down and began to run water in the shower.

They were both fully naked when Leah pounded on the door. Howie had gotten in the shower and AJ was trying to shave.

"You guys got 10 minutes!"

"I heard you, woman!" Howie snapped.

"Damn, you two are loud." AJ groaned, slamming the shower door shut on Howie. "Shit!"

"What happened?" Howie asked, opening the door. He saw the blood drip down AJ's cheek.

"I can't freakin' see straight." He moaned.

"I'd start with something that isn't sharp. Like your toothbrush." Howie chuckled.

Ten minutes later, Leah, with Leighanne and Polly standing behind her, opened the bathroom door to see the two of them pulling on their briefs over damp behinds. AJ said that she wasn't married to him so she couldn't see his naked rear end. She said that as the only woman on the planet who hadn't seen it, she shouldn't be denied the privilege of it another day.

Apparently, Polly and Leighanne agreed with her and heralded the event with applause. Luckily for them, Leighanne brought Fatima and Brian to help out. They sat with the children as Howie and AJ got dressed.

"These guys are so cute." Fatima giggled as Alex played trucks with Caroline.

"Don't get any ideas, little lady." Brian said.

"I'd like to have some." She said quietly.

"Someday. In the far future." Brian laughed.

"Do think Rachel or Kimmie are going to have any? What about Maleah? She'll never have kids." Fatima sighed.

"I don't know if they will or not. They all have plenty of time to decide that, just like you." Brian said as he watched his youngest daughter deep in thought. "What's bringing this on?"

She only shrugged her delicate shoulders, blonde curls falling loosely about her.

"You know you can tell me anything. You and me, we're the new Frick and Frack remember?" he smiled. She hesitated and then leaned back on the couch across from him.

"Drew wants to have sex." She said, not looking at him.

It was all he could do not to explode right there. What?! She's only seventeen! How could they be. . . of course they're thinking about it.

"We've discussed this before. You decided to wait until you were married." He said.

"I know. I guess I want to wait." She shrugged.

"Is he putting a lot of pressure on you?"

"Sorta."

"Well. I've told you before, I can't stop you from doing what you want to do. You're just about an adult and I won't always be around to help you get out of trouble." Brian said. "You're a smart girl. You know what you want and you know what you have to do to get it. You know how to be careful about these things."

"I know, I know." She said, color rising in her cheeks but she still wasn't looking at him. "Nick and Lexie had the most beautiful wedding."

"Weddings don't make a marriage. Nick and Lexie really love one another and have made a commitment to one another."

"Do you think they'll make it?"

"Yes. I do." He nodded. "What do you think you'll tell Drew?"

"Probably, 'no'. It's what I've been telling him for the last year." She sighed. "I just don't love him. Not like Nick and Lexie."

"That's the most important part. I know Drew thinks he's a singer and we've talked about my fame. It's going to attract people to you who aren't really interested in you, but who you know." He said. "You have a multi grammy winning artist and a record company owner in that bathroom over there."

"Who are puking their guts out." She joked.

"Well, besides that." Brian laughed with her. "They are two very powerful men in the business. AJ can work with anyone he wants and Howie can make anyone a star."

"I wanted to break up with him anyway. He's getting on my nerves." She said.

"I think you're looking for permission to break up with him, not to have sex with him." Brian smiled. "By all means, leave the jerk."

Fatima laughed at her father's antics. He was really good to her and she could tell him anything.

"Damn." AJ said quietly as he and Howie had their ears to the bathroom door.

"I know." Howie sighed.

"Brian's really good at this parenting thing." AJ said, straightening himself out. "Did Lexie ever talk to you like that?"

"Not about sex." He said. "I guess she always talked to Leah."

"You guess?"

"I don't know."

"You gotta talk to kids about this kinda stuff." AJ said.

"Who the hell are you? Father of The Year?" Howie grumbled.

"I'd talk to my kid about sex."

"He's four and a half."

"He knows about his pee-pee."

"Jesus! You call it that?" Howie gasped.

"He's only four and a half." AJ said.

"He's not the only one." Howie said, rolling his eyes.

Lexie squealed with delight as she stretched out on the bungalow's massive bed. Nick's hands moved up her sides as he got off his knees and laid himself across her naked body. His sun-kissed skin was still warm from the sun as he pressed onto her body with his. He began to kiss her and nibble at her as she calmed. She wrapped her strong legs around him and enticed him to come closer. She could taste the salt on his skin from the ocean as she kissed his lightly freckled shoulder.

"I can't believe this is our last day." He moaned.

"Sh, you promised you weren't going to talk about it." She shushed him.

"I'm sorry, baby." He mumbled against her lips.

"You better make it up to me." She smiled, her brown eyes sparkling at him.

"Haven't I done enough for you?" he smirked.

"No." she giggled.

"How much more do you want?" he said slyly as he pressed to enter her.

"Whatever you have left." She smiled as she felt his familiar touch. He slipped a hand down to her bottom, lifted her hips to meet him, and took her to where he knew she wanted to go.

Two whole weeks of paradise: surfing, sunning, and shopping on AJ's money. . .being married. Lexie smiled to herself as she listened to Nick sing in the shower behind her. He had just started doing that on this trip. She crossed her arms across her chest and continued to stare out at the beach. Her engagement ring caught in the cotton string of Nick's shirt that she was wearing.

She looked down at it and the matching gold band that sat with it. She held it up to the afternoon sun and watched it sparkle.

"I proudly present to you Mr. and Mrs. Nickolas Gene Carter."

Without warning, Nick's arms snaked around her and he put his hand up with hers.

"Funny, I have one just like it." He said. Lexie stared at their hands and the matching rings. Nick took her hand and brought it to his lips. "I love you, Mrs. Carter." She closed her eyes and breathed in the salt air, his clean scent and his love. "What are you thinking of so hard, you let me sneak up on you?" he asked, wrapping his arms around her and resting his chin on her shoulder.

"Do you remember the first time I came to your house? We had lunch on the veranda. I had that suit my Dad bought. . ."

"Yeah."

"I just remembered how you smelled."

"I hope it was a good thing. . ."

"I. . .there was a moment there when you seemed to seep into my senses, into my brain." She said.

"Not your heart?" he asked. "When did you know you were first in love with me?"

"At the hospital, the night before the transplant; you were outside of Alex's room." She said.

"That far back?"

"I didn't understand it. . .I didn't know what it was. But that was it."

"I remember watching you walk into AJ's apartment that day. You look a lot like him and Amanda. . .I just knew what I had waited for my whole life had just walked into it." Nick said quietly.

It had truly been his whole life. A whole life of so many failed relationships that he finally came to believe that true love was something he would never have the privilege of having. Until CJ, then Lexie.

"Have you given any thought to what we talked about last night?" Nick asked.

"About having a baby?" she asked.

"Yes." He coaxed softly.

"I'm still not sure Nick. I mean, yes. I do, but I don't know about the timing." She stammered.

"Maybe we should just be less careful and just let nature take its course?" he asked, pressing closer to her.

"I'm sorry Nick. I'm just not ready." She said, trying to step out of his arms. He held her fast.

"Don't run away. I understand." He said. "I want this to be right for both of us."

Did he? Did he really understand? She snuggled back into his arms and he held her tighter. She closed her eyes and felt him tighten down even more with his arms. He did. She realized. DJ had been his child too. He had suffered the same loss.

"You know what I was thinking we should do today?" Nick asked, chuckling.

"Besides pack?" she asked, enjoying the feel of his body as it vibrated from his chuckle.

"We need to go back to that one beach on the north end of the island. That one where we night surfed."

"Surfed? We didn't surf that night. I remember someone taking off his trunks and deciding it was too cold to get in the water." She chuckled.

"You thought the water was too cold too."

"No, I just wanted to stay on the beach and make love to you." She said, turning in his arms. "I’m up for that again."

Clink. Clink. Clink. Clink.

Tina watched her #2 pencil rap slowly against her coffee cup. God, she was bored. She looked up at the mediator who was droning on and on.

This probably doesn't look good. She thought.

"Ms. Ryans? Are you even paying attention?" he finally asked. She lifted her elegant head off her hand and coolly looked him up and down.

"No. I'm not. I have no idea what you have been droning on and on about for the last 45 minutes." She sighed. "I didn't request you for this case, because I knew you would bore both of our clients to death. Mr. Layton, I'm sure both of these good people have better things to do than listen to you go on and on about the significance of their case. It's a simple acquisition. Give me what I want and we can all go home today."

"If you don't have the tolerance for these kinds of proceedings, perhaps law should not have been your first choice."

"Don't bring into question my abilities as an attorney. I have cleaned the floor with you more times than I care to discuss." She said, getting to her feet. Damn, I should've left my shoes on. "I want the stocks, the stock options and the acquired purchased amount since the stock split in June. Then, he can have the damn company and we can all go home."

"I'm not giving up my share of the profits for the last year!" the man opposite of her said, jumping to his feet.

"You didn't even own the company for the entire year! Mr. Stewarts, you know as well as I do that you aren't entitled to that money. My client sold you the company after the stock split and she is owed that money." She said calmly.

"You damn women always stick together!" he snapped.

"Trust me Mr. Stewarts, I'm doing this for the fee. If Mrs. Kelley had a penis, I would still want the money." She said. "I'm tired of this. It's 3:30; I'm hungry so I'm going home now. If you, Mr. Layton, and your attorney want to discuss this further that's fine. Mrs. Kelley and I have things to do."

Tina reached under the conference table, put her designer shoes on the table and gathered up her things. She gave her client's sleeve a tug and they left together amidst the noise everyone else was making.

"We just can't walk out like that." Mrs. Kelley said.

"I think we just did. I'm tired of their stupid ass games. Could you hold these?" she handed everything to the older woman as they entered the elevator. In the crowded elevator Tina reached under her skirt, pulled off her pantyhose, and tucked them in her shoes. She collected her things from Mrs. Kelley and proceeded to walk out of the building and through the parking garage barefoot.

She popped the trunk of her Porsche and threw everything in, pulling out a pair of slippers.

"How are we going to beat them if we don't even talk to them?" The woman persisted.

"Eva, listen to me. I've done a billion of these. They are just trying to extract money out of you by wearing you down. You built that company for 15 years after your husband died. It fed your children, paid your mortgage and put all 5 of you through college. You earned every red cent they are trying to take from you. You sold that business in good faith and they aren't holding up their end of the bargain." Tina said, slamming the trunk shut. "I hate bastards like that."

"My son said you're just doing this to keep up the fee. . ." Eva said.

"You want your money back? I'll call Jill from the car and have her cut you a check." Tina snapped. "I'll work the damn case for free, I don't give a rat's ass about your money. I don't need it. Look at this, this is a brand new this year's model Porsche. Even Jill and her teen-idol husband don't have one of these. Eva, you have to be strong. I told you this was going to be difficult, but we have to stick it out. Those bastards want to rip you off and I'm just making sure that you can retire well."

Eva Kelley sized up the fiery redhead before her. Kristina James-Ryans was young, barely 35 by her guess. She knew that Tina had two teenage daughters and had worked very hard to get where she was today. She knew what kind of reputation she had, that's why she had hired her.

"All right, I'm sorry. It was just nerve wracking in there." Eva sighed.

"I know. I'll handle the meetings from now on." Tina smiled.

"No, no. I'll see this through." Eva nodded.

"Good, you won't be sorry." Tina chuckled as the older woman left her to find her own car.

Tina got into her car, sat and breathed for a moment. She no longer was plagued by thoughts about self-doubt about these cases. She smiled to herself and began flipping through her CDs. Something fun and uplifting. . .the Backstreet Boys? How did that get in here?

Tina stared at the picture for the longest time. Millennium. God, that was 20 some odd years ago. This album was a re-release that one of her daughters had bought for her about a year ago for her birthday. She could've sworn she hadn't put it in the car yet. Tina shrugged, maybe she had.

She took it out of the case, slipped it into the CD player, and turned on the powerful car. It purred beneath her as she reached to turn on the stereo. Rich tones ofLarger Than Life greeted her with AJ's scream in the beginning. She amused herself with thoughts of him as she put the car in gear and proceeded to head for home.

"What happened?" Aaron said as Jill collapsed on the couch. Jane and CJ had climbed off Jill and were running outside.

"Tina walked out on negotiations for a client." She sighed.

"And this is different from another day?" he chuckled as he settled down next to her.

"I guess it's not. I just seem to be the one who always gets the earful from the opposing counsel when she does this kind of shit." She griped.

"Well, your name is on the door."

"It says, 'Carter, Carlson and Ryans', her name is on it, too!" she groaned, throwing back her head. She heard him chuckle and then she lifted her head.

"When are Nick and Lexie due tomorrow?"

"Around one or so. I have their flight information in the other room." He smiled. "Are you still going to be able to pick them up with me?"

"Yeah, it shouldn't be a problem. I'll swing by and get CJ and Jane from school." She said.

"It's been kinda fun having CJ around for Jane." Aaron said.

"It's nice not being stalked any more. That's nice." She said. She watched Aaron's hand run absently up her thigh to the edge of her skirt. His fingers kneaded up her thigh gently getting closer to her. She smoothed his cheek and closed her eyes to enjoy the feel of his hand on her. His lips met hers gently and she opened her eyes to his.

"It's been a long time." He whispered.

"I know, baby. I'm sorry."

"We've both been so busy." He groaned as he kissed her again. "Let's plan a vacation. We haven't had one in two years."

"I don't know if I can right now. . ." she began.

"Jillie, can't Sabrina or Tina take up the load? You have 12 other partners in your firm now."

"Everyone is so overloaded now. . ." she started to say. She saw the hurt in his eyes as he withdrew from her. After all they had been though with Nick, Lexie, and their own lives, he knew she kept putting him second.

"No, you're right. I need a vacation." She said, watching him turn back to her. "I'll talk to the girls and see what we can do."

"That would be great. Maybe we can make time for that baby we've put off for the last 10 years?" he asked gently.

Jill was surprised. She hadn't thought of that in years. She and Aaron had been together for 10 years, getting married when she was pregnant with Jane. She had just been 19 years old and both sets of parents were livid! Aaron had been by her side the entire time, never wavering from his commitment from her. He helped her through school and was there all those years as she, Sabrina and Tina struggled to get started. At 29, she had her one child, 9 year old Jane and she had put off having another for all this time.

Either school, the firm, Aaron's albums, tours or something had made them put if off. Jane was now 9, CJ was 7 and she was running out of time.

"Maybe." She smiled at him, thinking that it might be time to put everything else on hold for a while.

AJ walked around the empty house as the real estate broker went on and on about it. He liked it, but wasn't feeling really comfortable in it. He guessed it didn't matter; he'd only use it when he was in L.A.

She pointed out the large yard, the pool and pool house. The house was fully equipped and quite nice. He liked it, but it did seem a little big for just him and Alex. It had one master suite, plus 7 other bedrooms. One would be Alex's, one probably CJ's and then Howie's kids. . .and a couple guestrooms. It was only about 10 minutes from Nick and Lexie.

"What do you think, AJ?" she asked. He had forced her to stop calling him Mr. McLean.

"I like it. . ."

"But?" she quizzed him.

"Nothing. I like it. Let's go and make a bid on it." He smiled.

"Really? Sex?" Kevin chuckled. "Well you know what they say, B. When you raise boys you only have to worry about one penis, when you raise girls you have to worry about all of the penises."

"Stop that, Kevin! Fatima will do what's right." Brian laughed with him. Brian sat in his kitchen on the phone with Kevin as Leighanne cooked them dinner.

"What about your other girls?"

"You know Maleah doesn't have time for boys. The other two are working at Disney in Orlando this year trying to get a break." Brian said.

"How are they doing?" Kevin asked.

"Kimmie got Sleeping Beauty. I think Rach is selling in the store or something."

"Ew, tough break." Kevin laughed.

"How are the boys?"

"They are doing just fine." Kevin smiled as he plinked a few keys on the piano in front of him.

"How's Kristen?"

"She's still in Kentucky. We decided to leave the two younger boys in school in the States."

"Wow, you've been in London all this time alone?"

"Yeah. It's not too bad. I'm editing a film score for Drew's latest picture. . ."

"How is she as a director?"

"Drew Barrymore? Fine. We've done about 4 pictures together. She keeps things lively, that's for sure!" he chuckled.

"When do you think you'll be wrapping up there? Nick's coming to Orlando in two weeks to start working on his album. I've got some finishing touches on mine and AJ's gonna be there to do some producing for Nick and a couple other Jive acts." Brian said.

"Probably not until late March."

"Late March? Kev, you gotta at least come for a visit." Brian whined.

"No, I've got to work through this. It won't be that long. Howie has already sent me some files to work on for arrangements. . .I'll be right there." Kevin chuckled.

"Oh, all right. Well, Leigh sends her love."

"You send her mine. I'll talk to you later."

"Later, Cuz." Brian joked.

"I'll see ya'." Kevin said in return.

Kevin hung up the phone and set it on top of the piano he was sitting at. His gaze traced over the empty London loft he had purchased years ago. His eyes circled the room until it fell back onto the keyboard he was sitting at.

He wished he knew what March would bring when he returned home. He wasn't sure any more. He wasn't sure he wanted to know.

"Okay, let me see if I get this right. You want time off to go get pregnant?" Tina asked.

Jill rubbed her eyes again, trying to explain it to Tina one more time. The headache she had was making it tough to even see her, posed in her expensive designer suit. Red, as usual.

"Is that really so tough to understand?" Sabrina asked her. "Not all of us are done having babies."

"Some of us haven't even started." Tina said back to Sabrina.

"Stop it, both of you!" she snapped. "I have enough of this crap with Aaron and his mother! Yes, Tee, I want a two week vacation at the beginning of March and if I get pregnant then or later, I will want more time off."

"We'll get everything lined up." Sabrina said.

"Well, this is just great!" Tina snapped, getting to her feet. "And what are we going to do with the work load? We are barely holding down the fort over at corporate legal services."

"So, let me get this straight!" Jill snapped, getting to her feet to meet Tina's challenge. "As long as you're in some kinda crisis, we have to be supportive and take up your work load! If I want to do one little thing for myself and my husband in 10 years, I can't!"

"I haven't had those kinds of problems in years!" Tina yelled.

"Not since your ex-husband died in prison, yes I know. I'm the one who put him there!" Jill yelled back.

Sabrina saw Tina almost cringe. When things had been bad, really bad, Jill had forfeited everything to be there to take care of Tina. They had both seen her through so much.

"I’m sorry, you're right." Tina said quietly, lowering her eyes.

"Tee, girl, I don't want this to be difficult. I promised Aaron years ago I'd have another child. Right now, Jane is 9 and I didn't want this kind of age gap between children. He really wants this. He talked about it all night." Jill said, sitting back down.

"Is it what you want?" Tina asked.

"Yes. When Nick and Lexie lost their baby, then they got married. . . yes. I want to do this. I love Aaron and Jane. I want to have another baby with him." Jill said, dropping her head in her hands.

"I'm sorry. That was stupid of me." Tina sighed, walking to the window of Jill's office and looking down at the city.

"I'm sorry I said what I did about your ex." Jill said to her back.

Tina only shrugged her shoulders.

"What are we going to do about the work load?" Sabrina asked them both.

"Let's take on a couple more lawyers." Tina said.

"There are some rumblings that Lisa Andrews might want to come west again." Jill said.

"Really?" Sabrina asked.

"Her work with SDR is going well, but her conflicts with Jive are starting to cause Howie some legal problems. He's taken on about a dozen of Jive's acts since the trials started." Jill said. "They are starting to slap him with contract violation lawsuits and whatnot."

"SDR is big enough to handle that." Tina said, turning back to the other women.

"Yeah, but he's taking on Nick too. He's putting a lot of resources into Nick's next album. I'm thinking that Howie and his company might be Jive's next target." Jill said.

"If you need me to help out, you know I will." Tina said.

"Thanks. He may need a few more sharks in his tank." Jill said. "I don't know anything other than what Lisa's told me. Lexie isn't involved with Howie's company and Nick'll be new there. . ."

"Have Lisa keep in touch with me. I've done plenty of entertainment contract work." Tina said.

Sabrina had been quiet most of this time. Supportive as usual. Jill looked over at the little brunette beside her. She had been Jill's best friend since before college; she'd been around longer than Aaron and his crazy Carter family.

She wasn't the force that Tina was in the courtroom with corporate raiders and mongers; then again, she didn't have Tina's motivations. Sabrina Carlson's practice was Family Law. Defender of women, children and even men when they needed her. And Jill? She was pretty much a "Jill of all trades" as they liked to tease her. She kept the balance between the two extremes: Tina and Sabrina.

"I'll tell her." Jill smiled.

"What's so funny?" Sabrina chuckled.

"Who is going to keep you two in check if I’m ever gone?" Jill laughed.

"I can hold my own." Sabrina laughed, knowing her dry sharp tongue could hold Tina's temper in check.

"That you can, woman." Tina giggled, remembering how she had rallied the troops for Nick's plight.

Nick was clutching Lexie's hand as usual as the plane descended into LAX. The drinks he had taken in first class weren't quite enough to calm his flight nerves. He seemed a little more nervous than usual.

"Baby? What's wrong?" Lexie asked. He let go of her hand and flexed his fingers.

"Oh, gesh, I'm sorry." He muttered.

"Nick? What's up?"

"Nothing. . .no really, it's nothing." He sighed with a slight smile after seeing her concern.

"You're a little more uptight than usual." She said gently. He gave a great sigh.

"I think I'm a little nervous to see CJ again."

"Why?" she asked, completely puzzled.

"Well, because we're married now and you'll be living there. . ."

"Nick, I've been living with you for eight months."

"I know, I know. It's different now."

"Well, yeah, we're married but what's going to change that much? I took this quarter off from school and I'll be around a lot more. I'll still take her to school and we'll go do things like we always did."

"I. . .I'm worried about her."

"Why? What's wrong?"

"I don't want to talk about it here. Tonight after we're home and she's in bed." He nodded.

"Okay." She smiled. "We can talk later."

At home. She reached over, took his hands, and gave them a great squeeze. He spared her a little smile and leaned over to rest his head on her shoulder.

Jill and Aaron were at the airport with the children to pick them up. CJ ran into Lexie's arms and then into her Dad's. The adults hugged and actually made it to luggage pick up before the press found them. Aaron loaded everyone up in his car and they drove off, away from the flurry.

"You guys have a good flight?" Aaron asked, looking over at Nick in the front next to him.

"It was fine." Lexie said. Aaron chuckled.

"I don't know, Nicky here is looking a little green." He teased.

"Shut-up, Aaron!" he groaned, but Lexie could tell his stomach was upset from the landing.

"So, how was Hawaii?" Jill asked.

"It was beautiful. I hadn't been in years! AJ picked the best hotels; we went to every island. We had great weather. . . it couldn't have been more perfect." Lexie smiled.

"You guys look so tanned." Jill laughed.

"You look beautiful, Lexie." CJ beamed as she nestled into her arms.

"Well, thank you, sweetie. I hear you're doing great in the spelling contests." Lexie said.

"I studied just like you told me to. I got third place last week."

"Third! Jill didn't tell me that! That's great!" Lexie laughed, hugging her.

"I did a model for science class and I got an A!" Jane said from the front seat between Aaron and Nick.

"You did? What was your model of?" Lexie asked.

"It was of the life of a Maple Tree. We did this whole class project about trees and the environment." Jane said.

"You're really good in science, Jane." Lexie said.

"I want to be a doctor. I've got to be good in science!"

"A doctor?" Nick chuckled. "Not a lawyer like your mom?"

"Naw, that's boring." Jane said, looking up at Nick. With that, everyone started laughing.

"How about being a singer like your Dad?" Aaron asked.

"Naw, I don't like people following me around all the time." Jane said seriously.

"It's more than that." CJ said. "Uncle Brian said it's a lot of work, like going to school."

"Uncle Brian's not that famous." Jane said.

"Uncle AJ is!" CJ protested.

"Uncle AJ is weird." Jane said back to her.

"He is not!" CJ continued to protest.

"That's enough!" Aaron laughed. "AJ is not weird. . ."

"He is too!" Jill laughed.

"Jill, don't encourage her!" he smiled. They were all laughing as Aaron pulled up in front of Nick's house. Nick and Lexie's house, now.

Aaron and Nick carried their bags inside and up to the master bedroom. They opened them up and distributed the presents to the girls and Aaron and Jill. The rest were sorted out to be mailed later. Jill and Lexie took the girls downstairs for some juice when Aaron pulled a felt jewelry box out of Nick's carry on. He opened it up and let out a low whistle.

"Hey!" Nick snapped, trying to get it from him.

"Those are some serious karats, my brother." He said, staring at the diamond necklace in the box. He snapped it shut and gave it back to Nick, who tucked it into his nightstand. "For Lexie?"

"Of course." He smiled.

"Has she seen it?"

"No, of course not. I found it in Maui. I'm gonna give it to her when I leave to go to record in Orlando."

"She's not going with you?"

"No, we decided to keep CJ in school here. She's been through so much, we need to stabilize her life now." Nick smiled.

"How you going to make it without your wife for all that time?" Aaron smiled, plopping himself on the bed as Nick sorted through the dirty laundry. Nick stopped sorting and smiled. "Oh god! Now he's going all goofy eyed on me." Aaron moaned, throwing himself back on the bed.

"She's my wife." Nick blushed at Aaron's dramatics.

"No shit. I was there!" he laughed at Nick.

"Shut up, Aaron! I've never had a wife before." Nick joked, carrying the dirty clothes into bathroom to toss down the chute.

"Yeah, it's about time." Aaron muttered.

"What did you say?" Nick asked from the bathroom.

"Nothing!" he hollered back.

"Mom?" the young girl asked of her absent-minded mother. She waited another heartbeat. "Mom? Mom, are you okay?"

Tina looked back at her daughter and smiled. "I’m fine, baby. I was just thinking. Where's Willow?"

"She's still in her room finishing her homework." The 15-year-old redhead said to her in that soft musical voice of hers.

"What can I do for you?" Tina smiled.

"I need you to sign these so Willow and I can take Driver's Ed this quarter." She said, slipping the paperwork on the kitchen table, under her elbow.

"Driver's Ed? You two aren't really old enough are you?" Tina chuckled, knowing both of her girls were old enough.

"Mom!" the girl moaned.

"It's okay, I'm just teasing, Becka!" Tina laughed, reaching for a pen.

"You're gonna have to get me and Willow's birth certificates so we can get learner's permits."

"I know. I'm familiar with the law." Tina chuckled as she filled out a paper for each of them. Becka threw her arms around her mother.

"Thanks, Mom!" she squealed.

"Hey! Don't think I’m gonna let either one of you drive the Porsche!" Tina laughed as Becka squeezed the last of the air out of her.

Nick and Lexie tucked CJ into her own bed for the night and headed downstairs to finish the conversation from the flight home. Nick and Lexie settled into the den as she started the computer to check the email.

"So, what did you want to talk about on the plane?" Lexie asked him.

"CJ."

"I know you're worried about something, what is it?" she asked.

"Christine."

"Her mother? What? Has she contacted you?!" Lexie asked, turning in her chair to face him as he sat on the couch going through the mail.

"No, no. Not at all! I don't understand with all the publicity why she hasn't yet. Especially with you and me getting married. . .I just can't help but think that she might one day."

"Well, I guess that could happen." Lexie nodded, giving him her full attention.

"I was hoping to talk to Jill tonight. We've got some legal issues to work out with us getting married."

"Really? Like what? You wouldn't let her write up a pre-nup."

"Oh, I don't need one of those." He said, waving her off. "I'm concerned about my will, and custody of CJ if something was to happen to me or you for that matter. I want to make sure you two are taken care of."

"Nick. . ."

"We already know these things happen, Lex. Look how you fell and we lost the baby. Howie had that stroke a couple years ago. AJ has gotten sick. . ." he sighed, "I just want to be prepared. Right now everything is in my name and I know my mother would challenge you for custody of CJ."

"Who would get her now?"

"I think it is Jill and Aaron first, then Angel." He said. "Aaron had Jane before I had CJ and it made sense. Mom was pissed, but it was my decision."

"Concerned with what she would do?"

"With CJ? Yeah, kinda. She might try to get her into the business. I want CJ to decide for herself. Being born to famous parents isn't a one way ticket to fame for yourself." He said. "I wanted her to have a sister or something. Jill and Aaron seemed like the most logical choice."

"When was the last time you wrote your will?"

"When Christine left. It was necessary so if I died and she came back, Jill and Aaron would have something to fight with to keep CJ in the family." He said.

"What are your plans now?" she asked. He put the mail aside and got up to walk over to the desk where she was sitting. He hiked his hip up and sat, leaning up against the desk. Lexie couldn’t help but notice how he had begun to twist his wedding ring.

"That's what I wanted to talk about. If anything happens to me, I want you to have everything, of course. You'll need it to survive and take care of CJ." He said. "I'd like you to adopt CJ."

"Really?"

"It makes sense. I mean, you are her stepmother now and you're really the only mother she's known. After Chris left, I haven't had anyone near her. I didn't trust anyone to take care of her. It would make it perfectly clear to my family who I want to raise her if I can't."

"I. . .I'm flattered Nick. Really, I am." She said stunned, looking up at him.

"Then you'll do it?" he asked her.

"Of course, I'd love to."

"Good, we can talk to Jill in the morning and she can work on it before I go to Orlando."

"You mean Sabrina. We'll have to have Sabrina work on it."

"Why?"

"Aaron didn't tell you? Jill's taking time off from the firm in March. She and Aaron are going to try to have a baby this year." Lexie smiled.

"He didn't tell me that! That dog!" Nick laughed.

"I don't think he wanted anyone to know yet. I think Jill's getting pretty excited about it and spilled the beans." Lexie smiled.

"Jill say anything else about it?"

"No, but she asked about our plans. . ."

"And you told her what?" he smirked, leaning down to kiss her lips gently.

"I'm sorry, Nick. I'm not ready. . ." Lexie began to stammer, getting to her feet.

"Sh, sh, it's okay, Lexie. I know." He soothed her, taking her in his arms.

Nick could feel Lexie's heart pounding in her chest as he held her. He didn't want this for her. He wanted her to have all the happiness he could give her, but he realized that there was still some healing to do. As hard as he tried, he couldn't make the pain go away, but he would try to smooth the bumps as they came. Nick kissed the top of her head and squeezed her one last time before she settled down to read email from everyone.

He got off the desk and walked back to the couch, that matter settled at least. He sat down and continued his shuffle through the mail. He glanced up several times to see her, head on her hand shuffling though the email. Her dark hair resting over the shoulder in a ponytail, not unlike his own. She was beautiful and he was madly in love with her.

Sabrina was gracious enough to squeeze Nick and Lexie in the next day to discuss the changes that Nick wanted to make. She had laughed when Jill set up the meeting, joking that she was wondering how she was going to fill her one 'outta court day'. Jill felt safe directing them to her, knowing what Nick wanted to do and Sabrina would be careful on how she would break the news to them. Sabrina was well versed when they asked about Lexie adopting CJ.

"Well, I can draw up the papers. . . are you sure you want to do this?" Sabrina asked from the couch opposite of them.

"Of course." Nick said. "Lexie is my wife now. . ."

"I'm not saying that Lexie doesn't have every right to adopt CJ, but I have to warn you that Christine has rights too. Unfortunately, that comes into play. In order to have Lexie adopt CJ, Christine has to sign over all her parental rights. We'd have to find a way to contact her. Are you sure that's something you want?" Sabrina asked.

"Even after all these years?" Lexie asked.

"She's CJ's mother. No court can change that and neither can time." Sabrina said gently.

"She practically abandoned the both of us. Sabrina, I haven't heard from her since she left CJ here that day." Nick said tersely. Sabrina could see the tension building and tried to head it off.

"If you had been married, then perhaps it would be different. Then you could have called it abandonment and had her rights voided." Sabrina said.

Nick was becoming agitated and got to his feet and began to pace. Lexie sat where she was and watched his turmoil begin.

"Nick?" Lexie asked, watching him wind up.

"I'm not ready for that. I can't deal with her right now." He said to Lexie, his voice beginning to quiver. He didn't want to say 'no' to her now, not when he had said he had wanted this.

"I understand. Let's get the other papers drawn up and take care of that. As long as CJ is protected now. . ." Lexie said, "Come sit down."

Nick sat down next to her and she slipped her hand onto his arm. He have her a desperate half smile and then refocused back on Sabrina.

"Yes. She can come back and protest Jill and Aaron, but she wouldn't stand much of chance. She might get visitation, but not full custody."

"If we do contact her and she says she wants CJ, can she get her?" Nick asked.

"There is a possibility, but it's very slim. She's been absent all of these years, but visitation would still be in the picture. There would be no doubt in the courts that you're a fit father and step mother, but a judge would give her a chance to be a parent." Sabrina said. "Nick, I have to ask. Do you know where Christine is? Has she ever contacted you?"

"No. I spoke to her on the day she left and that was it. I mean it. I did find out she was in New York a couple years ago, because Brian ran into her."

"Have you ever tried to contact her?"

"In the beginning, but to be honest with you, I knew very little about her. I don't even think that Christine is her real name. I couldn't find her parents or anyone in her family. I tried, but I gave up. I didn't think she'd go away for this long." He said. "How would've I known things would end up like this?"

Nick was leaning forward, his elbows on his knees. He was twisting his wedding ring violently around his finger. Lexie and Sabrina both could see his hands begin to shake. He sat back and crossed his arms across his chest in an attempt to soothe himself. When Lexie touched him, he just wanted to shrink into her arms.

He couldn't bear to lose CJ. He couldn't risk it and he doubted they understood the depth of his fear. Just the idea of losing her. . .

"Do you know how far Jill went in looking?" Sabrina asked.

"Not very far. She just thought like we all did that she'd come back eventually." Nick said, no longer able to contain his voice from shaking.

"Look, why don't I get these notes drafted for your changes to your and Lexie's wills and we won't touch the part about CJ yet. You guys will need to go home and talk about this." Sabrina said, getting to her feet. Nick started to get up but she shushed him back down. "I'll have my assistant bring you two some coffee and I'll be right back."

Sabrina stepped out of her office and asked her assistant to get them some coffee and leave them alone for a while. She took her notes and headed to Jill's office. She knocked and Jill called her in.

"How's it going?" Jill asked.

"Nick is delaying the adoption."

"That's what I thought would happen." Jill said, sitting back in her chair.

"I had to tell them we'd have to try to contact her mother first."

"How'd he take that?"

"Not well. He's falling apart in there right now. He's shaking like a leaf. I had Star take them some coffee and I'm giving them a little air. The rest is pretty standard." Sabrina sighed.

"Well, you can imagine how scared he is of losing her. She's all he's had for years until Lexie." Jill said. "Want me to go talk to them?"

"No, they'll go home and talk about it." She nodded.

"You okay?" Jill asked.

"I think so. I just can't help but think that he's such a great father and she can come back any time and get visitation and maybe even custody from him." She snapped.

"You know the chances are real slim." Jill said.

"I know, but it's still there." Sabrina sighed, leaning against her desk where she sat.

"Makes you glad you never got married or had kids, huh?" Jill smiled. Sabrina just rolled her eyes at her best friend. "Between me and Tina, you haven't had the best role models."

"That's not why I never did it. . ." Sabrina began.

"I know. There is a mister right for you." Jill said.

"Yeah, but he's probably in jail."

"Well, then I guess it's a good thing you're a lawyer." Jill laughed.

Sabrina came back about 20 minutes later and let them go. The ride home was quiet. Lexie had to drive because Nick was still upset. He wasn't hungry for lunch, so she took him straight home.

CJ was at school and Cook had left a note welcoming them back, but now she had to go shopping. Nick simply walked into the house and sank into a couch. Lexie followed him into the living room and sat on the coffee table in front of him. She reached up, brushed a couple of hairs from his face and tucked them behind his ear.

"Honey, you going to be okay?" she asked, taking his hands. They were icy cold and he was still shaking.

"I'm sorry. I can't stop thinking about Christine coming back and taking CJ away from me."

"You know Sabrina said she had a very slim chance of getting custody of CJ." Lexie said.

"What if she kidnaps her on a visitation or something. . ." he said, his voice rising.

"Nick, Christine hasn't contacted you in nearly 7 years. Seven! That's a long time. It's too premature to be worrying about things like that." Lexie said softly.

"I know, but what about CJ? She has never, ever asked about her mother. You know I have no idea what she knows or doesn't know. I know when we told her about the baby that she was concerned that you were going to leave too. I know she knows her mother left her. . . what would having Christine come back do to her? And what if we can't find her and she never knows what happened?" he said. He finally looked up and Lexie gave him the best answers she could.

"The questions will come. I can promise you that." Lexie said, speaking from experience. "As a matter of fact, I can almost promise you that they never have gone away. I think she doesn't ask, because she doesn't want to hurt you. That's why I gave up asking about AJ. I suddenly realized one night that look on Howie's face was pain that I was causing. That's when I knew he was as 'real' as a Dad I was ever going to get."

"Do you really think she doesn't ask because of some loyalty to me?"

"I can almost guarantee that." She nodded.

"Has she ever said anything to you?" he asked.

"No. Never. I've never asked her either." Lexie said.

"Do you know what you're going to say if she asks?"

"It depends on the question."

"You know. We're going to have to explain this whole thing with you and AJ pretty soon." Nick said.

"I know. That may bring everything to the surface." Lexie sighed.

"Now that she's in school, people are going to talk about us. Her classmates. It's not a secret AJ is really your father." Nick said.

"I know. He doesn't quite feel like my father, though." She said.

"He doesn't?"

"No. Howie is. AJ is like. . . a friend. A favorite uncle." She sighed. "If I step out of line, if anyone is going to offer an opinion about my life, it's going to be Howie. He's my Dad." Lexie said, letting go of Nick's hands and getting to her feet. "He was with my mom, but AJ was never around. Even when my mother was alive. He was almost like my father, then with the fight when he found out about us, it hasn't felt the same."

"I had no idea."

"Don't get me wrong. I love him to death! He's absolutely wonderful, but he's not my Dad." Lexie said, turning back to Nick.

"Do you think CJ will feel the same about her mother?"

"I don't know. It's hard to say. You two are very close." Lexie said.

"I don't know what to do, Lex." He sighed, burying his face in his hands. She went to him and put her arm around his shoulders.

"Think about it a while. I know you'll make the right decision." She said quietly.

Nick ended up working down in the studio for the rest of the day until Lexie went to pick up CJ at school. He heard his girls come bounding down the stairs and CJ was the first to burst in and run up to him with papers flapping from her hands.

"Look, Dad! I got an A in math and English today!" she squealed, waving the papers in front of him.

"That's great, honey. Let me see." He said, getting the papers from her. He smoothed out the wrinkles and looked them over. "CJ, this is great. I can't believe you only missed one math question!"

"Can we go to McDonald's for dinner?" she asked quickly.

"I think we can!" Nick laughed as she jumped into his arms. "Go change into some play clothes and we'll go get in the truck."

"Okay!" she yelled, running out of the studio and back up the stairs.

"She's doing great." Nick smiled.

"Yes, she is." Lexie smiled back.

"I'm so worried, Lexie. I don't know what to do." He sighed, setting her papers aside.

"It'll come to us. We'll figure this out." She said, watching him get to his feet slowly. He looked grim. "Let's go scan those and send them to AJ and my folks before we go."

"That sounds like a good idea." He nodded, picking them up and handing them to her.

They all piled into the den where Lexie scanned the papers and sent them out. AJ called immediately and chatted with CJ, congratulating her. They went on for about 20 minutes.

"Really, Uncle AJ? Did you really buy another house here?!" she suddenly squealed. Lexie and Nick smiled at one another. "When can I come over?"

"I don't know for sure. Should be in about a month. I've gotta wrap up the paperwork and everything on it." He laughed.

"Where is it?" she asked. "Is it close by? Do you think I could ride my bike there?"

"Well, I'm not sure. It might be too far for that. It's about 10 minutes away by car."

"Do I get my own room?"

"CJ!" Nick admonished her.

"Tell your Dad, 'yes'. You get your room there!" he laughed.

"That's great, Uncle AJ. Can we paint it pink, like the one in Orlando?"

"You bet, honey. Anything you want!"

"CJ! That's enough!" Nick said, taking the phone from her. "Hey, AJ."

"Hey, Nicky, how the hell are you? Or do I need to ask?" he joked.

"We're doing great. So, you got another house out here?" Nick asked.

"Yeah. I was just in town and picked it out. I wanted it kinda close to Lexie and CJ."

"Well, it'll be nice to see you too, AJ." Nick chuckled.

"Oh, no man! No hard feelings. You know you're welcome anytime!" AJ said quickly.

"I know. I just think you're after my women." Nick said to lighten the mood.

"Of course I am!" AJ laughed. "Speaking of which, is my babygirl there?"

"AJ?" Lexie asked, as Nick handed her the phone.

"Hey, Babygirl. How you doing?" he asked.

"Oh, AJ. We had the best time! Thank you so much!" she said. "We had great weather and everything was just perfect thanks to you!"

"It's the least I could do." AJ said.

"No really, thank you. You don't know what this has done for us." She said.

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself." He smiled.

"So, tell me about the new house. Where is it?" she asked. They chatted for another 10 minutes before they had to go to dinner. They exchanged their 'I love yous' and hung up. Lexie had to run to catch up with Nick pulling out of the garage.

The sun was setting on another perfect Orlando day. Leah barely noticed the vibrant colors as she worked in the kitchen getting ready for dinner.

Howie was fast asleep in his chair before dinner was ready. He had actually made it home early this night. Leah had asked him to be home for bedtime because the children were missing him. He had agreed before he left early this morning.

"Mom?" John asked her as she stirred the stew.

"Yeah, honey?"

"Dad fell asleep in the living room."

"I know. He's tired right now."

"He said he'd play basketball with me today."

"I know. After dinner, okay? Let him sleep a little." She said.

"Mom?"

"Yes, Tyler?" she sighed as her other son piped in.

"Can I call Lexie?"

"Yes, but after dinner. John, go get Caroline, please?" she asked the oldest boy.

"Are you gonna wake Dad?" John asked.

"No, not yet." She sighed.

John left to get Caroline out of her crib and Tyler climbed up into his chair at the dinner table.

"Mom?"

"Yes, Tyler." She sighed, setting the table.

"When are Lexie and Nick going to come visit?" he asked.

"Nick will be here in two weeks to work in the studio." She said.

"Will he be staying here or at Uncle AJ's?"

"I don't know for sure. He might stay in a hotel."

"Can he stay here?"

"Why honey? Do you miss Nick?"

"Yeah. He always plays basketball with us." Tyler said, fidgeting with his spoon.

"Your Dad will play with you after dinner." She said.

"He's too tired all the time." He groaned. "He's always so grumpy."

"I know. He's working very hard at the record company." She tried to explain.

"Can't he come home more? He used to all the time."

"I'm sure once Nick gets here and AJ is working on his album, Daddy will be home more." Leah said. "I know you miss your Daddy. He's trying to get home more." Tyler just shrugged his shoulders.

Leah got the children settled for dinner and went to wake Howie. She gently shook his shoulder.

"I'm awake." He mumbled, lolling his head towards her.

"Dinner's done. You hungry?" she asked quietly.

"Yeah." He sighed, getting to his feet.

"The children are excited to see you tonight." She smiled.

"I know. I heard." He sighed heavily.

"I'm sorry, honey. They miss you. You've been working more and more." She said gently.

"I miss them too." He nodded, taking her into his arms. "I can't get away right now."

"I know." She said into his chest. He pulled back and lifted her face toward his.

"Are you okay?" he asked, "I have been away a lot."

"I'm fine. I miss you."

"Are we okay?"

"Oh, yes. Of course." She said.

"I couldn't do this without you. I love you, hon. I miss being here with you and the kids terribly." He said, taking her back into his arms. He missed everything about her.

"What are you doing here so late?" Sabrina asked Tina. Tina looked up at her partner and then at her watch.

"Would you believe I'm buying a car?" she laughed, pointing to the computer screen.

"What for? The Porsche not cutting it?" Sabrina laughed, coming into her office.

"It's for the girls. They have Driver's Ed this quarter."

"My god! Are they really that old now?" Sabrina laughed, sitting on the corner of Tina's desk and peering at the computer screen.

"You know. I'm sorry about what I said yesterday. I don't know what got into me." She said.

"I know. It's okay. I wonder about it myself sometimes." She nodded.

"I don't. I think you're too pretty and too smart for most men." Tina chuckled.

"Yeah, right. I'd believe that if I had your legs." Sabrina chuckled back. "Are you looking at that Jeep?"

"Yeah, but I think I'm going to go with a sedan or a wagon or something."

"How about a Volvo? They have good safety records. You can get a four door if you want."

"That might be a way to go." Tina nodded, accepting Sabrina's change in subject.

Tina studied Sabrina out of the corner of her eye as Sabrina cruised the Internet for cars with her. Soft chestnut hair piled softly about her face with just a hint of blondness to make her a little edgy. She always wore a softer cut of suit than Tina did. She was very feminine, nothing like Tina any more. It was all about power and winning. Tina doubted she had anything else left in her that resembled Sabrina.

"You know, Beana, you work too much." Tina said suddenly.

"What are you talking about?" Sabrina laughed.

"I'm sorry. That just sorta came out." Tina laughed at herself.

"You sounded like my mother this past Christmas." Sabrina laughed. "I don't need more of that."

"She nagging you about a boyfriend?"

"Any man, are you kidding? She can't understand how I could move all the way out here to L.A. and be so successful and not date."

"You go out."

"I know! I told her, but she thinks I should be at least living in sin or something." Sabrina said.

"Maybe you should have an affair with a married man. This way, you'd have a boyfriend and it would be sinful enough for her." Tina teased.

"The idea is to get a man, be happy, have a couple kids. . ."

"We are all not Jill Carter." Tina smiled.

"She's blonde." Sabrina smiled back. They both nodded knowingly. That was their fall back line in case they ever had to tag team an argument with Jill. "Aw, here's a good one." Sabrina said, pointing to the screen.

Tina swiveled back to where she was pointing. Although Tina stopped believing in the kind of love others dreamed of, she still believed others would find it.

Even Sabrina.

The alarm buzzed by his head and Howie slapped it off. He turned back toward the center of the bed, hoping to wrap his arms around a certain warm body. Small feet connected with his thighs and he cracked open his eyes.

His second son, Tyler was sound asleep between him and Leah. Howie couldn’t even remember him getting into bed with him. Leah stirred to get up and Howie brought Tyler into his arms. Tyler obliged him by snuggling closer. Howie knew he had to do something; he was missing too much of his children’s lives working like this.

Leah got up, pulled on her robe, and looked back at Howie and Tyler. She knew how bad Howie felt. For him, family always came first, but the current business climate was keeping him at the office more. He had been upset when he missed Caroline’s first steps. She walked to his side of the bed and learned in for a kiss on Howie’s cheek.

"How long has he been here?" Howie whispered.

"Since around 2." Leah whispered back.

"Daddy?" Tyler asked.

"What Ty?"

"Can you stay home today?" Tyler asked, looking up at him. Howie closed his eyes and held Tyler close again.

"Not today, but you have to go to school. I’ll be home early."

"You promise?"

"I promise." Howie said, new tears burning his eyes.

Jill stared out the huge picture windows of the restaurant where she would be meeting the others for lunch. Fine beige linen suit gave way to the dark wine colored one of Tina's and the gentle blue of Sabrina's.

"I’m glad you guys could make it." Jill smiled as Tina and Sabrina had seats at the table.

"Nothing says, 'I want you to be there' like 'I’ll buy you lunch.'" Tina smiled.

"What’s up? You pregnant already?" Sabrina teased.

"No, not yet." Jill laughed.

"The way you and Lexie talked about them, you’d think those Carter boys had the Midas touch." Tina teased. Sabrina laughed with Tina as Jill turned six shades of red.

"Okay, stop it." Jill giggled.

"Well, it’s not like we don’t know what you guys are doing every night." Sabrina continued.

"Stop it." Jill laughed with her embarrassment.

"Okay, okay. What’s the little pow-wow about if it’s not about Baby Carter." Tina said.

"It’s about Lisa Andrews." Jill smiled.

"She’s coming west after all?" Sabrina asked.

"Yes, but Howie probably just found out. She’s resigning today when he gets in. I haven’t offered her anything firm, do you guys still want her?"

"Why all of a sudden?" Tina asked.

"Well, it’s not all of a sudden, she’s actually called me a couple times. I get news through Aaron’s record company too. According to Lisa, now that Jive has lost their cash cow to SDR, they are looking at a hostile takeover."

"This is insane! When are those guys going to leave Nick alone?" Tina snapped.

"Well, Howie offered the contract to Nick after Lisa advised him not to. He's also signed a about two dozen other of their acts and paid their attorney fees to get them out of their contracts with Jive. They are after him as well as my dubious brother-in-law."

"That’s just business, right?" Sabrina asked.

"No. It’s personal." Tina sighed. "What has Howie said?"

"He doesn’t know yet." Jill sighed.

"Not about Lisa, about the takeover."

"Lisa says he doesn’t believe it could happen. She’s been watching the stock changing hands. . ."

"I better look into it." Tina said.

"I think you better. After Lisa resigns, she’s going to tell him to call me."

"He’s gonna be pissed you wooed her away." Sabrina said.

"Probably, but that’s just business. Her daughter Missy is going to school up in Seattle and the other is ready for a change. I think Lisa is ready to get out Orlando." Jill said, "Which brings us to our next topic. Do you guys still want her? And do you still want to start up the Entertainment Law division?"

"With you leaving, do you think this is such a good thing?" Tina asked.

"Well, I’m only going on vacation and you two are full partners. I’m not suggesting we make her a partner. . ."Jill said.

"Well, I want her. I think an entertainment law division would be good for the firm." Sabrina said.

"But that’s just more work. . ."

"Well, we have a responsibility to our employees to keep the firm in good financial shape. They have families to support, just like we do." Sabrina said to counter Tina.

"I’m with Sabrina on this. It’ll be good for the firm." Jill said.

"I’m in." Tina nodded. "What else?"

"So, I take it Lisa is in, good! Next? I think we better look into signing Sweet D. Records and getting Howie Dorough on board." Jill said. "I don’t want my brother-in-law to be unemployed again."

"I assume you want me to take care of that?" Tina said.

"Yep. Here’s his card, see what you can do." Jill said, handing it to him.

"Piece of cake." Tina smiled.

The house was dead quiet all around Nick. He noticed that even Marcus and Anthony were gone as well as Cook who was out running errands. Lexie had taken CJ to school this morning and went to a job interview with her former roommate, Gina, afterwards. That left him all alone in the house and he was where he usually went when he wanted to think. The nursery.

The would-be nursery.

They hadn't papered the walls yet, but the rolls of wallpaper still sat in a bag under the unmade crib. It had been nearly a year and Lexie had mentioned this morning that it might be time to put these things away. He thought she was worried about him because he did spend time in here for hours just rocking in the rocking chair he had bought when CJ was born. He always liked this rocker, because he had had it custom made for his long legs. He ordered the ottoman for Lexie to make it easier for her to rock when she was pregnant.

His toe would tap it periodically as he rocked.

"Nick?" Lexie asked quietly as she stood in the doorway of the nursery. He was sitting in the rocking chair, rocking and looking out the window. Tucked into his lap was a little stuffed pink bunny he had bought her for DJ early on.

"Hmm?" he said, not looking over at her.

"You been in here all morning?" she asked.

"No, I took some calls." He nodded absently.

"You okay?" she asked.

"Huh? Oh, yeah, I’m fine." He said, finally smiling at her. "How’d your interview with Gina go?"

"Fine. It was only for presentation purposes. We've worked together before and she knows what I can do." Lexie said, walking into the room.

"When do you start?" he asked as she sat on the floor across from him.

"After you leave." She nodded. "It's just a temp job, like I said. About six weeks to clear out this one huge estate she has coming into the auction house. Nick, what are you doing in here?"

"Uh..nothing." he stammered, the bunny in his hand. His head dropped to his hand and he rubbed his eyes. "I was missing her, that’s all."

"Are you ready to start packing these things away?" Lexie asked.

"No." he said, barely audible. "I’m not ready yet."

"Okay." She choked. "It’ll all be here when you get back, I promise."

"Maybe you should just do it while I’m gone." Nick said.

"Is that what you want?"

He just shrugged, lifted his head and looked out the window. Lexie could see the unshed tears in his eyes as the sunlight filtered onto his face.

"Will you be back for the trial?"

"I think so, I haven’t talked to Howie yet." He nodded.

"They are only calling me to testify. . ."

"I’ll be here for you." He said. "I want some security. I don’t want you to get hurt again."

"I bet Aaron would do it."

"He probably would, but he needs to get on with his life and quit taking care of me." Nick said.

"Nick, you know Aaron loves you and would do anything for you."

"I know."

"Talk to Dad, see what he says. We’ve got over a month."

"I know." He nodded.

"Nick, what is it? What’s wrong?"

"I don’t know." He said, finally giving up trying to hold it in. "I’m worried about CJ and the trial and recording. . ."

"Nick, we’ll talk to CJ tonight about me and AJ. There is nothing we can do about the trial and the recording, well, we all know you’ll be brilliant." She said, getting up to sit on the ottoman at his feet.

"It’s been years, Lex. . ."

"I know, but this album is going to be a hit. Think about it Nick, you have complete creative control over it. When was the last time that ever happened? Huh? Never!"

"AJ is going to be there."

"Oh, he’ll produce a few songs, but you don’t even have to use them if you don’t want to." Lexie said. "Besides, if AJ can get you out of those god awful suits, I’ll be eternally grateful to him."

"A couple more tattoos maybe?" he chuckled.

"You have enough of those." She smiled. She got up and sat in his lap. She took the bunny from his hands and held it in her lap. She fussed with it a long while before she spoke again. Nick wasn't looking at her, he was continuing to stare out the window feeling the silence between them. "Next year, maybe after you’re home from the promotional tour. . ." she began quietly.

"What?"

"We can try for another baby." Lexie said shyly.

"Really? Are you sure?" he asked, suddenly full of more hope.

"Yeah, I’m sure." She smiled. He pulled her close and kissed her.

"What about your Masters. . ."

"I can still work on it. I’m not really in that much of a hurry for it any more. Not going to school has freed me up to take the estate assignment with Gina at the auction house. I miss the hands on." She shrugged.

"I know you still have your own dreams, regardless of marrying me." He said.

"My dreams are wherever you are." Lexie said.

"Lexie." He whispered.

"The line is real blurry where I end and you begin. You know that, Nick." She said.

He pulled her close and kissed her gently, but earnestly.

"What did I do? What did I do to deserve you?" he groaned against her lips.

"I wish you’d reconsider." Howie sighed, letting Lisa’s resignation letter slip from his fingers and onto the desktop.

"I can’t."

"Jill Carter finally got to you?"

"No, I went to her. Howie, it’s better this way. I’m just a liability to you and you know it."

"You know I don’t believe that." Howie said, getting to his feet. "There aren’t many people I would trust with this company."

"I know and I appreciate it." She smiled. "But Missy is at school on the West Coast, Regina is looking forward to a change. It’s good for you and it’s good for my family."

"You still think they are going to try a hostile takeover?" he asked, crossing his arms and learning against his desk.

"I know they are. It’s industry talk. I told Jill my suspicions, Howie."

"Why did you do that?!"

"I want Tina Ryans out here to help you."

"That redhead?"

"Yes, the one who helped Nick."

"I don’t do her kind of business."

"I know you don’t, but Jive does. She speaks their language and they are still licking their wounds from the last time. Let her help you."

"I don’t think I want that for my company."

"Howie, it won’t be your company for very long if you don’t do something." Lisa said sternly. "I know you want your children to have a future."

"You’re pulling out all the stops." He smiled darkly.

"I’m right, Howie. You know that. I can’t help you, but she can. Orlando is no longer the happy little competitive community it once was. Things have changed Howie. Jive Records wants SDR, but moreover, they want Nick Carter."

"You told me that."

"I told you signing him would be dangerous."

"He’s a good friend, hell, he’s my son-in-law now!" Howie chuckled absently.

"I know." Lisa nodded. "Nick is still a viable entertainer, don’t get me wrong. Jive stills sees him as their cash cow and now he’s living in your pasture. They know he will make you a lot of money, Howie."

"Provided I still have a company?" Howie asked.

"Yes, provided you still own this company." Lisa nodded.

Nick and Lexie let their honeymoon continue that brief afternoon, sneaking away to their room for a session of lovemaking. Lexie lay marveling at the strength of his arms that surrounded her. She traced her finger down his arm to his watch, then turned it to check the time. She tried to pry his arms off of her, but he held on tighter.

"Nick!" she giggled. "Let go of me! I have to go pick up CJ."

He pulled her back to him, his warm flesh pressing against hers.

"Let's send Cook." He whispered hotly in her ear.

"I can’t. I promised to take her shopping." Lexie said.

"For what? What could that child possibly need?" he groaned, throwing himself back on the bed dramatically. "Oh, no Lexie!" he said, sitting up quickly.

"Nick! She’s just a little girl. I know you hate your birthday, but she really wants to get you something!" Lexie groaned back, sitting up as well.

"You aren’t planning a party or something are you?"

"No, no." she said.

"Yes you are!"

"I’m not, I swear."

"But someone else is. . ."

"Your mother called. . ."

"You made a pact with the Devil?"

"Nick!" Lexie scolded. "It's just family, a few friends. . ."

"Not if my mother is planning it." He groaned.

"Nick, I approved the guest list myself."

"How many?"

"About 30."

"Thirty people? I don’t know 30 people." He groaned, flopping back down.

"Yes you do." She laughed at him. "And they are fun people too."

"Who?"

"Well, your family and a few people from the your fan club. . ."

"Fans?!"

"Fan Club!" she sighed. "Nick, this is vital to getting your album out. . ."

"You did make a pact with the Devil!" he said, getting out of bed.

"Actually that was my idea." She said, getting out on her side.

"What for?"

"I haven’t seen Karen and Nikki in ages!"

"Great, my wife and the president and vice-president of my fan club hanging out together. . ."

"Well, yes. I figured I might has well have some fun." She said, pulling her clothes on with a laugh.

"You know I hate this."

"I know and if you don’t act surprised, I will kick your ass."

"You’ll what?"

"You heard me!" she said, pulling on her shoes.

"That I’d like to see." He laughed, getting up and walking toward her. "Wooo, I’m so scared."

"I’ll tell your mother."

"You wouldn’t."

"I would and I will. You will show up to the party, you will be surprised and you will have a good time. Is that clear?" she said, getting to her feet and turning to put her hands on her hips.

"No." he smiled, putting his hands on his naked hips.

"I have your mother’s phone number programmed into my cell phone."

"You won’t do it."

"I won’t? It should go something like this. . .Jane, it’s Lexie. . .your oldest son is being a party pooper and won’t come. . ."

"Very funny, Lex." He laughed.

"Please be good about this? CJ is very excited about it." Lexie finally smiled.

"For my girls, I’ll go and even, maybe, have a good time." He smiled, leaning over to kiss her goodbye.

"Thank you, Nick."

"Thank you, Lexie." He smiled with a wink. "And don’t get me another watch!" he called after her.

"I’m not getting you another tie either!" she yelled back.

CJ hung from Lexie's arm as she tried to skip through the mall, her dark blue school uniform skirt bouncing as well. Lexie and CJ rattled off a number of things they thought Nick might like, but none of them were quite right.

"What are we going to get him?" CJ sighed as they sat down for hotdogs after walking the mall hand in hand.

"I haven’t got a clue!" Lexie sighed with her, trying to squeeze some mustard out of the container on the table. "What do you get a guy who has everything?"

Lexie looked up in time to watch CJ’s crystal blue eyes follow someone behind her and she turned to see a heavily tattooed young man.

"Maybe we should get him a tattoo!" CJ laughed.

"You two are on the same wavelength today, I swear!" Lexie laughed. "No more tattoos."

"Maybe you should get one!"

"No, between Nick and my dad, there are enough tattoos in this family." Lexie said without thinking.

"Howie has a tattoo? Oh, you mean Uncle AJ." CJ said without skipping a beat.

"CJ? How much do you know about AJ and me?"

"I know AJ is your real dad, I mean, like, he was with your mom." CJ said, sipping her soda.

"How did you learn that? Your dad and me never talked about it with you. . ."

"Jane told me. I heard Uncle Aaron and Aunt Jill talking about it once when you ran away. Then there was that big fight you and AJ had when he found out about you and Dad." CJ said. "John told me that Howie wasn’t really my grandpa, that AJ was."

"What did you do?"

"I hit him." She said casually.

"You what?!" Lexie said.

"It was at the wedding, it was a long time ago. You aren’t going to tell Dad are you?"

"Well, no." Lexie smiled.

"Uncle Brian made us apologize."

"That’s good." Lexie said. "Cee, you got any questions about me and AJ?"

"Well." She began, then stopped as she gave it some thought. "If AJ is your real dad and Howie is like your adoptive Dad, which one is my grandpa?"

"Well, both of them I guess." She shrugged.

"I can’t call them both Grandpa."

"I guess not. You don’t have to call AJ Grandpa."

"I can’t keep calling him ‘uncle’ either. Gesh." CJ sighed dramatically. "What do you call him?"

"AJ. Sometimes, Dad."

"Do you have different names for them?"

"No, Howie is Dad and AJ is. . .well, usually just AJ."

"I know it’s been a long time since AJ’s been your real dad, but don’t you think you should call him that?"

"Well, that’s what I call Howie."

"Maybe we better come up with a different name for AJ." CJ said, chomping on her hotdog. "Like Poppa or Poppy or something."

"That might work."

"We could use the same one! Sometimes AJ isn’t very smart. He might get confused."

"Well, we’ll explain it to him." Lexie laughed.

"Lex, what’s it like to be adopted?"

Damn, there it was. The gate to the path Nick was so afraid of and she's standing there alone without him.

"I don’t know what you mean." CJ was quiet and then Lexie had an idea where she was going. "I guess it’s okay. I mean, I had a home with Howie and Leah."

"How come you couldn’t live with AJ when your mom died?"

"Well, he thought it would be better if I lived with Howie and Leah."

"How come?"

"He was young and scared. . ."

"AJ?"

"You have to remember this was a long time ago. Long before you were even born." Lexie said.

"How come Howie was better?"

"Howie is a little older than AJ."

"Were you mad at AJ?"

"Yes, for a long time." Lexie answered honestly.

"But you’re not now?"

"No." Lexie smiled. "I love him very much. What happened in the past isn’t important."

"I know for a long time I remember Dad talking about the others, but never saw anyone but Brian. I met Kevin a couple times at Brian’s, but. . ."

"I know. A lot of that had to do with me."

"How come?"

"Well, when I went to live with Howie, a lot of people thought it was a bad idea, especially since AJ was my real dad. They were mad that AJ didn’t want to take care of me."

"Were you mad?"

"Yes, I was, but I’m not now. No one is. You see, as mad as we were with AJ at the time, it turned out to be the right decision. Howie is a great Dad and I love him very much. AJ is a great Dad too. I got a lot of opportunities I wouldn’t have had if I had stayed with AJ, including a Mom and brothers and the big family I got with the Doroughs."

"Isn’t it better to be with your real Dad?"

"No, sometimes it’s not. Sometimes it’s important for adults to take care of children that aren’t in their family."

"I wouldn’t want to live with anyone other than my own Dad." CJ said.

"I know. I can’t complain." Lexie shrugged.

"I guess you’re lucky you got two dads." CJ shrugged.

"I think so." Lexie said, watching CJ. She never mentioned Lexie’s two moms.

"I only have my Dad." CJ said.

"You have me." Lexie smiled softly.

"Well, you." CJ sighed.

"Gee thanks." Lexie laughed.

"You’re not like my. . .Dad, you’re like my friend." CJ said, looking up at Lexie.

"Thanks, CJ. That means a lot to me." Lexie said.

"It’s like you and me look out for Dad together." CJ smiled.

"It’s a two person job these days, isn’t it?" Lexie joked.

"He’s gonna get into trouble in Orlando by himself."

"I know. We’ll just call him everyday and have AJ go over and bug him." Lexie laughed.

"Maybe I should get him a new phone?" CJ said, "He likes all kinds of new gadgets. Maybe there is one he doesn’t have, that’s really new."

"Might be a plan."

"What are you getting him?" CJ asked.

"Promise not to tell?" Lexie smiled and CJ crossed her heart. "I’m not going to give him this at the party, probably right before."

Lexie dug around in her purse, pulled out a small ring box, and opened it for CJ.

"Wow." CJ sighed.

"My friend Gina found it in the estate she’s working on. You remember, G, don’t you? Any way, it’s an antique man’s wedding ring made in China. It’s already engraved with our names, look."

Inside the ring was an inscription CJ could barely read;

To Nicholas, all of my promises, Alexandria

"His name is spelled wrong." CJ said.

"I know, but it wasn’t made for our Nick with a ‘k’."

"For another Nick and Lexie?"

"Yes." Lexie nodded. CJ looked at the intricate Chinese dragon wrapped around the outside in gold.

"This is around 100 years old." CJ said.

"Yes, very good."

"I could tell by the kind of dragon they used. Wow, Lexie, that’s really nice." CJ sighed. "I don’t know what I’m gonna get him."

"Oh honey, he’ll love anything you give him." Lexie said, sorry she had brought it up.

"I just don’t know." CJ sighed dejectedly.

"Well, we could both give him this."

"No. . ."

"Sure, let’s go to the jeweler and have your name put in there, too."

"That will ruin it!" CJ said, knowing that altering it would lower the value.

"No it won’t. You remember me telling you that personal pieces are less valuable if they are personalized. Besides, it’s not the dollar amount that’s important. It’s the thought behind the gift. It would be perfect if both of our names were on there. ‘Christine’ will fit right in there." Lexie said.

"You think so?"

"I know so. You know he always thinks of us as ‘his girls’. This is it, CJ! It’s the most perfect idea." Lexie smiled. "Then we can give it to him at the party."

"You were going to make it special."

"It won’t be as special if you’re not in it with me." Lexie said.

"I don’t want to take your present."

"You’re not, don’t be silly. We both love your Dad very much. This is really perfect, Cee, I know it is!" Lexie said. "C’mon. Let’s go get it done."

CJ agreed, but she also picked out a couple new picture frames so he could take pictures of her and Lexie with him to Orlando.

"You are home early." Leah laughed as Howie came in to the kitchen.

"I said I would be." He snapped, picking up Caroline who was clutching on to his leg.

"Eww, bad day?"

"Why do you ask that?"

"I just got my head bit off?"

"I’m sorry, Lisa Andrews resigned today."

"What?!" Leah said, wiping her hands dry. Howie told her the whole story, with Caroline squirming on his lap. The boys came in and washed up before dinner, extracting promises of playtime with Dad before bed. The family had dinner together, Howie played basketball with the boys and then they put all the kids to bed together.

"She goes to bed so much easier than the boys did at that age." Howie smiled as they stepped out of Caroline’s room together.

"I know. She’s such an angel." Leah smiled with him. She reached up and touched his bearded cheek.

"Just like her mama." He smiled back, leaning over to kiss her. He caught her in his arms and pulled her into a passionate embrace.

"Don’t Howie, I’m a mess." She scoffed gently.

"You’re fine." He laughed quietly. "C’mon." He took her hand and led her to their bedroom.

"I’ve got dishes downstairs. . ."

"They can wait." He smiled as he walked in with her in tow.

He coaxed her over to the bed, where they laid down across the bedspread and he took her in his arms and quietly held her. It was a time of gentle touches and gentle kisses until Howie finally took her mouth passionately, breaking off only when a soft sob escaped her.

"Baby, what’s wrong?" He asked concerned.

"Oh, Howie." She cried, throwing her arms around him. He rocked her gently, trying to ask her what was wrong as she sobbed. "I’m sorry." She finally said wiping her eyes.

"What’s wrong? Leah, please tell me." Howie said softly.

"I just miss you so much. Do you know how long it’s been?"

"Too long, I can tell." He said. "I’m sorry. This isn’t what I promised you when I married you. . ."

"I love you, Howie. I just miss you terribly." She said sniffling.

"I love you, baby, and I miss you just as much." He said, closing his eyes to kiss her softly on her salt covered cheeks. "Let’s go to Paris this year. Just you and me like we used to."

"What? You can’t get away! Caroline is too young. . ."

"No, I was thinking. Let’s go in early April before Lexie goes back to school. She and Nick can stay here with the kids. . ." he smiled.

"What about the studio. . ."

"It’ll be there when we get back. What do you say? We haven’t been in years. . ." he smiled.

"Nick would have to pull CJ out of school. . ."

"That’s his problem." Howie laughed. "I only care about making you happy."

"Howie we just can’t run off. . ."

"Who says?" he laughed harder.

"You’re nuts, you know that?"

"For what? Wanting to make love to the most beautiful woman in the world in the most romantic city in the world? I don’t know, makes perfect sense to me. Maybe we’ll get even luckier this year. . ."

". . .and what?"

"Have another child. . ."

"Now I know you’re nuts. . ." she laughed, gently pushing him off.

"I just feel bad that Caroline is so much younger than the boys. She needs someone close to her own age. . ."

"Howie, we were pushing our luck with Caroline. . ."

"We scored with that one, we can do it again."

"You really want to try and have another baby?"

"I do. I really do." He smiled. "I want another little angel just like my beautiful wife."

Lexie sneaked CJ in the house and she ran upstairs to hide Nick’s presents. Lexie found Nick out on the deck, stretched between a deck chair and a table. His long tan legs stretched out from khaki shorts. He was gazing out into the backyard with the cordless phone in his lap. She could also see the pink tip of a pink bunny ear, hidden in the crook of his arm.

She stood inside admiring the strength in his body as he sat there. He looked around for a moment, saw her, and she smiled. He pulled his feet to the deck and got up, sitting the little pink bunny in his seat. Lexie went out to him and was surprised when he didn't open his arms to her.

"You guys back?" Nick asked, driving his hands into his back pockets.

"Yes."

"Get everything done?"

"I think so."

"Where’s Cee?"

"She ran upstairs. She should be down in a minute."

"You girls eat already?"

"We grabbed a couple hotdogs. Nick, are you okay?"

"Daddy!" CJ yelled running onto the deck. He knelt down on the deck and she ran into his arms. Lexie saw him hold on to her as if he was afraid to let her go. He closed his eyes and just held on to her. "Dad! Dad, you’re hanging on too tight." CJ finally said.

"I’m sorry, baby." He smiled, letting go of her. He smoothed a couple of loose strands of her blonde hair from her face.

"Dad? You okay?" she asked. He smiled weakly and nodded yes. "I don’t think so."

"I’m fine, angel." He smiled, sharing a chaste kiss on the lips with her. "You want to go get ready of bed? I’ll come up and read to you."

"Will both you and Lexie come up?" CJ asked, looking back at Lexie.

"We’ll be right behind you." Lexie smiled. CJ kissed Nick again and ran back into the house. Lexie watched Nick get slowly to his feet.

"What is it?" Lexie asked.

"Christine’s lawyer called. She wants to see me." Nick said quietly. He had walked to the edge of the deck and planted both of his hands on the rail, leaning his weight on them.

"Oh my god, Nick." Lexie gasped, gripping his arm. "Did you call Sabrina. . .?"

"No, not yet. . ."

"She has to be there. . ."

"I know." Nick choked. His arms came up and crossed in front of him, hugging himself. "Oh god, Lex. I can’t lose her. I can’t live without her in this house everyday."

"I know, I know baby. Did he say what she wants?"

"No, just that she wants to see me. What else could it possibly be about?" Nick groaned. "There is no other reason for Christine to come into my life. I’m sorry, Lexie, I’m sorry all of this is happening."

"Don’t be ridiculous, Nick. You can’t control this. . ."

"I didn’t want this to be the way we start our marriage. . ."

"Nick, please! I married you with my eyes wide open. I knew this was going to happen. . ."

"Dad? Lexie?" they heard CJ ask from the doorway. The three of them just stood there silent for the longest time.

"You ready for bed?" Nick asked.

"Yeah. I got a book."

"Okay, let’s go then." He smiled, taking Lexie’s hand tightly. CJ stopped him at the door.

"What were you guys talking about?" CJ asked.

"Just grown up stuff. Nothing for you to worry about." Nick said.

"I love you, you know that, right Dad? Just like I promised." CJ said suddenly.

"I know honey, I love you too." He choked, kneeling down to take her in his arms and pick her up.

"Don’t cry, Dad, okay? It’ll be okay." She said, tightening her grip on his neck. A short sob escaped him.

"C’mon, let’s go read us a book, okay?" Lexie said. CJ kissed Nick’s temple as they walked through the house and upstairs.

Nick and Lexie got through the book and CJ asked them to stay until she fell asleep. They all laid down on her narrow bed and she snuggled between them. In the dark room Nick touched Lexie’s face, ran his fingers through her hair, and traced her lips with his thumb. He caught the moisture on her cheek, bringing it to his mouth and, tasting it he knew they were tears.

When he was sure CJ had fallen asleep, he began to get out of her bed. Lexie followed him out into the dark hallway. She walked past him, but he caught her by the arm. He silently wiped her cheeks as a brief sob escaped her. He took her in his arms and choked back his own cries.

"I love her so much, please don’t let them take her away." Lexie choked.

"No one is taking my daughter away from me." Nick whispered harshly. "No one."

Nick was so deathly quiet this night, that it was beginning to scare Lexie. He had withdrawn in a way she had never seen before. He left their bed shortly after he thought she had fallen asleep and she heard him go next door. He left, went downstairs and returned to the room next door. Lexie knew he went down to get that bunny. DJ’s bunny. For the first time in her life with Nick, Lexie cried alone.

How could this be happening? They were finally so happy together, how could something like this come along and ruin it? Lexie knew Christine was always out there and that it would probably only be a matter of time before she appeared, but Lexie had prayed it would be when CJ was much older, not now. How was she going to deal with CJ’s mother coming back into their lives? How would she deal with his ex-lover being in his life again?

Lexie wiped her eyes and rolled over to face the door she had seen Nick leave from. She’d have to find away, she wouldn’t lose Nick like this, or CJ. She wouldn’t be so weak and so immature and prove their naysayers right. She and Nick were meant to be together. She fell asleep with her thoughts and fears haunting her.

It was probably an hour before the alarm was supposed to go off when Lexie woke with a start. Nick had come back to bed and stirred when she suddenly sat up. His hand reached up and pulled her arm, trying to draw her back into bed. She leaned over and kissed his sleep warm cheek, but turned to get out of bed. She pulled her robe on and walked to the windows that overlooked the back yard into CJ’s play area. She looked back and saw Nick, who had dropped off back to sleep.

Had Christine done this? Had she woken and watched him sleep in that bed? In this room? Lexie looked around and realized that this room hadn’t changed from their first night in it. It was still bathed in his blues and creams, the same bed, the same knick-knacks, but with pictures of her, Nick and CJ and not Christine. So many of her things were still in storage, but she had so few. He had bought her a new computer; new clothes and he had even gotten rid of her old car her Dad had bought.

Lexie realized that this was her house and her husband and she’d better take possession of them. She’d better start walking her life like she owned it. The honeymoon was over and it was time for her to get to work. Work to keep her family together and work to make sure they were happy. The clock said she still had 45 minutes before she still had to get up.

She pulled off her robe, removed her pajamas and climbed back into bed. She pressed her naked form against him, slipping her hands down his drawstring pajamas. He moaned and woke rather quickly.

"What?" he mumbled.

"Time to wake up." She whispered.

"Huh?" he grunted and she was loosening his drawstring. "Lex?"

"Good morning, Nick." She said warmly, pulling the pajamas from him.

He kicked his legs free of the covers as she crawled on top of him. He was still wiping the sleep from his eyes as she took his morning erection. A deep groan in his morning voice rumbled through her. He gave her a sleepy smiled and closed his eyes to enjoy her gentle ministering, her movements slow and sensual.

"Damn girl." He muttered, reached to get hold of her hips. Her dark hair cascaded down her body, tickling his knuckles. He could feel his orgasm building inside of her. "Damn." He came slow and easy as he arched his hips into her. Lexie lay down on his chest, his arms wrapping around her. "Good morning, beautiful." He whispered.

"Nick?" she asked.

"Hmm?"

"I want to redecorate." A low chuckled rumbled through him and she looked up into his face.

"Baby, you didn’t have to do that to get to redecorate." He chuckled.

"I didn’t!" she admonished him gently. "I did that because I saw you sleeping there and I wanted you."

"I’m glad." He smiled, his blue eyes sparkling at her in the dim morning light. "Honey, I don’t care what you do to the house. Hell, it could probably stand some updating."

"A little." She smiled as the alarm buzzed on her side of the bed. With a moan, she rolled off of him and slapped it off.

"You know, screw this place. Let’s just get one in Orlando." He said, propping himself on his elbow.

"You mean, like a summer home?"

"No, like a real home. What would you think about moving there?" he smiled.

"Oh, Nick!" she said, throwing her arms around him. "I’d love that. I miss my family so much and it would be great for. . .CJ." she said, suddenly quiet. "I can’t do that to her. Her friends are here, she’s in school, Jane is here, not to mention your family."

"She’d adjust, kids always do. My family can fly to Orlando to see us. Hell, Leslie still lives in Tampa anyways." He shrugged. "I’ve always traveled so much that we’re used to being apart. I want you to be happy." He smiled, tapping her nose.

"I couldn’t ask you two to do that. . ."

"It’s not just about me and CJ anymore. You’re in this family too, you know." He smiled. "Beside career wise for me it makes sense. I mean, my record company is there, a lot of my friends are there and family. Your family. I mean, I am Howie’s and AJ’s son-in-law."

Lexie laughed gently.

"I think we have to deal with Christine before we try to make any decision." Lexie said grimly.

"I had almost forgotten about that." He sighed.

"We can do this Nick, we can get through this." She said, reaching to touch his cheek, rough with his morning beard.

"I know. I can do anything with you at my side." He said, kissing her lips. "I was up all night thinking about it. I saw your beautiful face and I realized I didn’t have worry about anything. This is going to be hard, Lex, really hard."

"I know hard, I do hard." She smiled. "Bring it on."

Nick was surprised by Lexie’s fervor, but he could tell she was still scared. Hell, so was he. Losing any part of CJ’s life would just kill him and he didn’t know who this woman was anymore. Who was Christine James seven years later that he should even consider letting her be a mother to CJ?

Nick showered and decided he was the one who was going to take CJ to school this morning. She was very excited and dragged him inside to meet all her teachers again. She gave him the grand tour of the school and they ran into Jane who did a running leap into his arms. He took them both to their classes and signed a few autographs in the parking lot on the way back to the car.

He settled into the car ride home and reached to dial Lexie at home. She had agreed to tell Sabrina for him so he had the time to spend with CJ. It gnawed at him that he should be the one to handle this, but he knew he had to let it go to keep his sanity. Lexie could handle it. She wanted to handle it. She was his life partner, for better or for worse. He had to change his life toward that. He had been alone for too long.

The phone rang three times before she picked up.

"Hello, beautiful." He smiled. "What did she say?"

"I told her what you said and gave her the number her lawyer left. She said she’d call them today and find out what they wanted." Lexie said. Nick smiled; he could hear her chewing her bottom lip even over the phone.

"You know, tomorrow is dinner at my mom’s." he said. "I think you need a new dress. Let’s go shopping."

"Nick, tomorrow is your birthday and the surprise party you’re not supposed to know about." She said.

"I’m saying the magic words, Lex, ‘Let’s go shopping.’" He teased her.

"I think we should wait for Sabrina’s call."

"I’ll get the answering service to forward the call. Lex, we can’t live like this." He said softly then he added. "Let me buy you something short and sexy for being such a good girl this morning."

"It’s for dinner at your mother’s!" she admonished him with a laugh.

"All the more reason for it to be as short as morally possible." He laughed back. "You don’t have nearly enough little black dresses."

"Nick, I have a ton of them and a ton of those impossible high heels shoes you like so much." He heard her smile.

"I can’t help it you’re short."

"Me!?! I’m not short, I’m almost 5’9"!" she snapped at him. He laughed; she hated it when he told her she was short. "You’re an evil husband, I don’t know why I’m so nice to you!"

Nick laughed even harder.

"Because you love me!" he added.

"I’m a fool for you Nickolas Carter!" she said, joining in his laughter.

"I can’t believe I’m doing this!" Leah laughed, her light hair falling over her shoulder with a toss.

"Pretty cool, huh? I think I should come home for lunch more often." He said, stretching out on the bed. Her light hand fell on his dark chest as she leaned over to kiss him.

"Thank you." She whispered.

"You’re very welcome, Mrs. Dorough." He smiled. "I can’t believe Caroline slept through all that."

"She sleeps like a log, just like her father." Leah laughed, getting out of bed and pulling her robe on. "Come on out of bed, I’ll actually get you some food before you have to go."

"I’ll just grab something on the way back." He said, sitting up and pulling her back into his arms.

"You know you can’t do that anymore. You need to eat well in order to stay healthy." She told him.

"I know, I know. I do good, honest. That new assistant, Michelle, I hired when Kelly left is all over it!" he groaned in her ear. "You should hear her. Nag, nag, nag."

"I pay her good money to keep an eye on you." Leah teased him.

"You do?" he asked, almost wondering if she was serious.

"I check up on you through her. I talk to her almost more than I talk to you." Leah teased him. "She was a good choice."

"Yeah, just what I needed, another spunky blonde in my life." He said, shaking his head.

"Oh, hell, I’m not much of a blonde these days." She chuckled nervously as she ran a hand through her hair.

"You’re as beautiful as the day I met you." He smiled.

"You don’t remember the first time we met." She teased him.

"You know what we need to do?" Howie said quickly, changing the subject. "Have Lexie come out here and you girls should do those spa days, like you used to."

"We used to have so much fun, then you boys would take us to dinner someplace fancy. . ." Leah said, tears welling in her eyes.

"What’s the matter?"

"I miss Lexie." She sighed. "Ever since she ran away it hasn’t been the same. . ."

"I know. . ."

"Now she is married to Nick all the way in L.A.. . ." she sighed again.

"Maybe you could call Leigh, or Kristen."

"Lord, I haven’t spoken to Kristen in years, Howie." Leah said, the weight of the past coming to her. They had all lost so much because of Howie’s adoption of Lexie from AJ.

"Well, Leighanne is right in Atlanta and I know she’s not doing anything this weekend."

"How do you know that?"

"Brian and Fatima are going to Nick’s surprise birthday party tomorrow and giving him back his Prowler."

"Are they really? How sweet!" she said. "How come we’re not going?" Howie looked away from her for a moment. "We weren’t invited?"

"Basically. Leighanne said that they were trying to keep it small because of how much Nick hates his birthday. Nick’s mother is organizing it." He said softly.

"She should’ve invited us, Nick is married to our daughter!" Leah snapped.

"Honey. . ."

"It’s been almost 25 years since AJ fathered Lexie, will that woman ever get over it?!" Leah growled.

"And she’s not happy about the marriage either. Look, we’ll call and wish him a happy birthday and leave it at that. I don’t want Lexie to have any problems with Jane." Howie said. "Brian wasn’t invited either, he’s just crashing it. He called Lexie to find out if there were any plans for his birthday and she told him about the party. I’m not even sure if Lexie knows Brian is showing up."

"I can’t believe she didn’t at least tell us about it." Leah sighed.

"It’s really small, Leah. It’s better this way." He smiled, "It’ll take a little time to break those Carters into the Dorough Birthday Traditions."

"I’m still having Lexie’s birthday here, I don’t care what they say." She said.

"I’m sure you will." Howie chuckled.

"We should have CJ’s too." Leah huffed.

"What is this going to be? Dueling mothers-in-laws?!" he teased her.

"Yes." She finally laughed, "And I have your mother’s recipes for those enchiladas and I’ll have Nick Carter eating out of my hands."

"How did it go?" Jill asked Sabrina over lunch.

"Well, I spoke to her lawyer and he wasn’t very forthcoming. He just insisted they have a face to face with Nick and Lexie." Sabrina said, stabbing her salad. "I do think she was in the office listening to the call."

"So, when’s the meeting?"

"Monday afternoon. They are in New York and agreed to fly out here. I can’t get away any sooner to go there. Nick’s leaving a week from tomorrow." She shrugged.

"So you don’t know if it’s custody or a settlement or anything?" Jill asked.

"Nada. Which is pissing me off." She said, waving her full fork at Jill. "How the hell am I supposed to prepare any counteroffers or anything if I haven’t got a clue on what she wants? I told him they might have to stay a couple days and he said okay. Who am I to argue, right? I’ve got the clerks throwing together every kind of file they can in case her demands fall within the reasonable." She finally ate her biteful.

"You tell Nick?"

"Yeah." She said around her mouthful. She finished chewing and swallowed before she continued.

"How’s he holding up?"

"They sounded pretty good. Lexie almost started crying this morning when Nick wasn’t there, but later they sounded better." She said. "I think they were out shopping or something."

"Really. I wish I could tell Aaron. I know Nick probably needs to talk to him."

"I know, but it’s client confidentiality and all that crap." Sabrina sighed. "Nick told me they didn’t want anyone to know until we know what she wants. He said he’d like the name of a psychologist to help CJ and the family if she wants to see CJ."

"That makes sense." Jill nodded. "I assume he doesn’t know, I know."

"I don’t know what he knows. You’re a partner here and I know you won’t tell Aaron." Sabrina said.

"Luckily, Aaron knows I won’t tell him either." Jill nodded.

"How you guys doing these days?"

"Still trying to decide exactly where to take this little vacation he wants." She smiled.

"Someplace romantic I hope."

"If he wants a baby, it better be romantic. Last night he mentioned Rome."

"Really? I bet that’s nice."

"You know, you should travel."

"Naw, I’m just a kid from Ohio." Sabrina said.

"You know, when I’m back I’m sending you on vacation next." Jill warned her.

Sabrina grinned grimly. Great, another thing for her to do alone while her mother nagged her.

Nick tried for hours to get her into every boutique on Rodeo Drive, but she steered him through the mall where she bought him a baseball cap to cover his hair. He protested because it didn’t match his slacks and shirt, but she insisted she wanted to shop in peace. Her peace lasted for about three hours before people started following them. Lexie for the most part enjoyed Nick’s fans as much as she enjoyed her father’s.

"Even if we ignore them, they won’t go away." He said, leaning over and whispering in her ear as she went through a clothing rack.

"No, but they won’t come over here either." She whispered back.

"Why don’t I just go talk to them?"

"Don’t you dare!" she whispered back.

"Dang Lex, I’m bored stiff. You wouldn’t even let me stop at the CD store. I haven’t been to a CD store since. . .since they used to be called record stores." He moaned to her quietly.

"You’re the one who wanted to go shopping." She sighed loudly.

"Yeah, but not for me and not at the mall." He moaned again.

"You need some casual clothes. Just a couple pairs of jeans. I can’t help it I don’t know what size you are because your weight has gone up and down in the last two years." She moaned back.

"Can’t you just look at the tag on these?"

"They are too big for you AND they are slacks, not jeans. It’s not the same thing. Here, just go try these on." She smiled, looking up at him. She handed him three pairs and pushed him toward a dressing room.

"What am I ever going to do in these?"

"Your next album cover?"

"You’re kidding right?"

"Hey ladies, you want to see him in these jeans?!" Lexie suddenly blurted out. She was rewarded with a small round of cheers. "Your public has spoken. Move it, Carter."

When Nick was changing, Lexie got the fans ~about a dozen~ to come over and sit with her. They were waiting when he came out with the first pair. He came around the corner to his audience for which he blushed.

"Those are too big." Someone said.

"And too short." Another one said.

"You heard them, go try another one." Lexie ordered. He dramatically stomped back inside. The second pair was long enough, but still too big. The third pair he wouldn’t come out in because they were way too short.

"Here, try these." A fan said, handing her another pair. "My husband is about the same size." The woman said. The clerk took them back to Nick.

"Better?" Lexie asked after Nick was a no show for a long while.

"Well," he began coming into view. "They are a little snug." He turned and showed them and the women gave in to their urges to hoot and whistle at him. He looked a little surprised.

"He’s always had the cutest ass." Someone said.

"I know, he’s just gotten better looking, don’t you think?" another said.

"I can’t believe he quit wearing jeans," said another.

One woman leaned over and whispered in Lexie’s ear. "He’s got brief lines."

"I know, he still wears them sometimes." She whispered back. "He switches back and forth."

"Are you gals done?" he sighed.

"Let’s try some black ones." Someone suggested.

"Sure." Lexie nodded.

"Lex." He sighed.

"Nick." She mimicked him. "This is good for you, trust me."

"Very good!" Someone agreed to a small round of applause.

"You guys are tired of those suits aren’t you?" Lexie asked them.

"Yeah!" they cheered.

"What you’d give to see him in jeans, maybe a tee-shirt. . ." Lexie continued.

"Cowboy boots. . ."

"Next album cover." Lexie added.

"There’s a new album?" the rapid fire began.

"When’s it coming out?"

"Are you gonna do any Backstreet songs?"

"Where are you recording it?"

"Will he wear that?"

Lexie smiled a little smile of satisfaction and to her surprise, so did he as his eyes locked with hers. His eyes had that sparkle they had this morning.

"Okay, go change. That’s enough for today." She said, getting him off the hook.

He came back out and signed autographs for everyone. Each of the ladies gave her a hug and they chatted about their own husbands and boyfriends. Soon, it was almost as if they forgot about Nick and ended up just talking to her.

Damn, he smiled, if she were any more perfect it would be inhuman. She was kind to his fans, promoted his new album even before he had recorded a note and had them eating out of the palm of her hand. They were growing to love her as much as he did. She waved good bye to them, slipped her hand into his as they walked hand in hand to the cash register.

"That was fun." She smiled as he handed over his credit card to the star struck clerk.

"I’m glad you enjoyed yourself at my expense." He smiled back.

"Those do look good." She said, buttering him up.

"If I have to wear those, you know it means no more midnight runs to the grocery store for ice cream." He said, putting his card back into his wallet. "I don’t have that kind of metabolism. Never had." He put his wallet back into his back pocket.

"I could live with that." She said, scooping up the bag and thanking the clerk.

"I doubt that’s gonna last, Ms. Chocolate-Chip-Mint-I-Gotta-Have-Some-Right-Now." He teased as he took her hand.

"I don’t know why Cook just won’t buy me some!" she sighed dramatically.

Nick laughed at her, but he knew the reason. Chocolate Chip Mint had been Christine’s favorite and the only thing ‘special’ she had ever requested from him in the way of home comforts after she moved in. He had ordered Cook to never bring it into the house again after she left. He still hadn’t rescinded that order, even after Lexie started asking for it.

After Nick and Lexie picked up CJ at school, they took her to a restaurant where they all sat down to dinner. It was a wonderful family dinner. The management knew to keep fans away. The phone was ringing when they walked in the door and CJ ran to answer it. She was sitting in the den talking for quite awhile when Lexie went to check in on her.

"Who is it?" Lexie asked.

"It's Poppy." She smiled.

"Who?"

"AJ! He's telling me about his new house. You wanna talk to him?" CJ smiled.

"Sure." She said, reaching for the phone.

"Okay, here's Lexie." CJ said, handing the phone to Lexie and scrambling out of the chair.

"Go get ready for bed and go find your Dad." Lexie said.

"It's early, it's only 7:30!" CJ moaned.

"Get ready for bed and go find your Dad." Lexie said again. CJ promptly stomped out of the room.

"Hey, AJ." Lexie smiled.

"Hey babygirl! Was I keeping her up?" he asked.

"No. If she does as she's told, she'll find Nick in the studio with something to play for her."

"He start recording?"

"No, not that I know of. I think it's some older stuff or something." Lexie shrugged. "I don't know what those two do down there for hours. CJ usually just falls asleep in his lap."

"Alex and I do that sometimes."

"Really? So did me and . . .Howie." She said.

"It's okay." AJ said. "I know Howie's your Dad."

"I’m sorry. I just kinda stuttered, that's all." She said softly.

"Hey, we're past that, remember?" he said forcibly.

"Yeah." She nodded; knowing it wasn't quite true. She hated that they hadn't been close since that fight about Nick. They tried, but something wasn't quite right. She knew it even wasn't about Nick any more. So did AJ.

"You hear what CJ's calling me now? Poppy, isn't that cute." He laughed.

"Oh, yeah, she told me that. I hadn't heard that she finally made a decision." Lexie said. Listen to me, AJ! I want to tell you about Christine and how scared I am and how worried about Nick I am!

"Oh, hey, the reason I called. The wedding DVD came here, I think Howie's got the pictures and I'd like to bring them to you guys next week. I was thinking I'd fly out and pick up Nick for you this way he can stay home an extra day."

"Really?"

"Sure. I've got some papers to sign on the new house and make some arrangements for some decorating for it."

"That sounds great." She nodded. "I'll talk to Nick, but I'm sure you guys can stay here. You are bringing Alex, aren't you?"

"Of course, couldn't go anywhere without my little man." He chuckled.

"I'd love to see you guys."

"I was thinking of making a full week out of it and coming in on Monday. ."

"Monday's not good. . .uh. . .Nick's got meetings. . .me too. . ." she said.

"Okay, Tuesday?"

"How about Wednesday?"

"Okay, so Nick and I can fly out Saturday night?"

"Could we stretch it until Sunday morning?"

"Yep, as long as he's in the studio Monday morning, Howie will be happy." AJ said.

"Thanks, AJ." She sighed.

"Honey, you okay?" he asked softly. Something in his tone made him sound so concerned, so fatherly and so much like Howie.

"Yeah, it's been a long day and I didn't sleep well last night." She began. Listen to me. . .

"How come?"

"Just tossing and turning." She said. Can’t you hear what I’m trying to say?

"Are you still on the phone with Poppy?" CJ asked from the doorway.

"Yes, you still want to talk to him?" Lexie asked.

"Can he sing me a song?" she asked.

"Sure I can." AJ said into the phone. "Put her on."

CJ climbed up into Lexie's arms and listen to AJ sing her a little song. Lexie absently rocked the leather office chair back and forth. CJ snuggled into Lexie's arms and she held onto her. Lexie could barely hear AJ's voice through the handset. When he stopped singing, CJ told him that she loved him. He returned the "I love you" to her. CJ handed Lexie the phone, but stayed in her lap.

"Thanks." Lexie said.

"Any time, sweetheart. You girls sound tired. I'd better let you go." He said softly.

"Bye." Lexie said.

"I love you, Lexie."

"I love you too." She mumbled, feeling the sadness of not being able to say what she so desperately wanted to.

"Where's CJ?" Nick asked as Lexie walked into the studio.

"I put her to bed. She was tired. AJ sang to her." Lexie said.

"That was AJ on the phone?"

"Yes, he wants to fly out Wednesday and then take you back Sunday morning."

"That's cool. At least I won't have to leave on Friday." He smiled. "We'll have a built in babysitter if he stays here and you and I can have a date."

"I can't believe you're going to be gone." Lexie said quietly, sitting in a chair next to him.

"I know, baby, I don't want to go. All the more reason for us to buy a house in Orlando."

"I know." She nodded.

"Baby, what is it?"

"AJ." She said, her voice breaking.

"What? Did you guys have a fight or something?"

"No, no. I . . .we're just not that close any more. Not since the fight and he found out about us."

"I thought you were okay with that. I mean, you said you loved him."

"I do, but it's just not enough." She cried. "I waited so long to know him and when I did it. . ."

"What?"

"It didn't last."

"It was hard for him to accept. It's probably still hard." Nick said. "It'll get better with time. When we move there, it'll be better. You'll get to see Alex and Caroline more and the boys and Marta, Aria and that wacky cousin of yours. . ."

"Marshall." She chuckled.

"God that kid is strange." He chuckled. "I think you're homesick and tired and worried about Christine."

"Aren't you?" she asked, wiping her eyes.

"Yes. God, I can't tell you how worried I am, but I'll go insane between now and Monday if I just let it eat at me." He sighed. "Today is over and we've got three more to go."

"Plus dinner at your mother's." she smiled through her tears.

"God, I almost forgot." He groaned. She laughed at his antics. "One thing at a time, okay? Let's take care of Christine, then we'll plan our move to Orlando. Deal?"

"Deal." She nodded.

For all Nick's brave talk, he was out of bed an hour after getting in. He settled into the rocker in the nursery again for a long night, just to return before the alarm went off. She got out of bed moments after he got in, even before the alarm. She was fully in the shower when the alarm on her side went off. He reached over to slap it off, but there was a piece of paper on the alarm. He pushed it aside and then leaned over the bed and picked it up. He noticed her handwriting right away.

Don’t leave me like this.

Don’t leave me like this.

Nick’s head dropped to the mattress, his arms holding the piece of paper above the floor. Had he done this? Had he pushed her to write this?

"Get it?" he heard her ask. He looked up, then sat up with the piece of paper in his hand.

"I’m sorry. . ."

"I don’t want you to be sorry." She said softly. "I want you to understand."

"I. . .uh. . .I think I do." He muttered. "I won’t spend another night in the nursery. Is that what made you write this?" he said of the paper.

"My father is a poet." She shrugged; walking over and holding her hand out for the piece of paper. She read it over and handed it back to him. "I’ve got to go wake CJ, sounds like she’s not up yet."

He watched her tighten her robe and head out into the hall. Yeah, he got it. He read the words again. He stretched out to her bed stand and opened the drawer. He pulled out a pen.

Tiny demons laugh in my face.

For the ruling Queen of Hearts.

He left it back where he found it, laying across the alarm clock.

Nick missed CJ going to school; he had been in the shower after Lexie. He was down in the studio when Lexie came down with a piece of paper. He saw her reflection in the glass as she stood there.

"Why didn't you tell me?" She asked.

"I thought I just did." He said, not removing his gaze from her reflection.

"I thought you had a handle on this."

"I might lose my daughter. How do I 'handle' that?" he sighed.

"Everything was okay until you went to bed?" she asked gently.

"It's like my fears are bigger. The house is quiet and I thought you were asleep."

"I wasn't."

"I know." He said grimly.

"I wrote you a rebuttal." She smiled.

"Let me see." He smiled, turning his chair toward her. She handed him the paper back.

Sirens call you from the dark

Even when we are apart.

"Baby, this is beautiful." He gasped, reaching for her hand. "I'll miss you too." Lexie leaned over and kissed his sweet lips gently. He swiftly stood up and took her passionately into his arms. "Let's go back upstairs." She broke from his arms with a nod, took his hand, and led the way.

"Hey, mon! Whatcha' working on?" AJ laughed as he and Alex came into Howie's office.

"Hey guys!" Howie smiled, getting to his feet and hugging them both.

"Hi Uncle Howie!" Alex cheered, throwing himself from AJ's arms into Howie's.

"Oomph! Gesh, you're getting to be quite a big boy." Howie laughed, hoisting him on his hip. "Come on in, have a seat. What you two doing out and about?"

"I talked to Lexie last night. I'm gonna fly out on Wednesday and hang with them for a bit. Nick and I will fly out of L.A. on Sunday."

"That's nice of you AJ."

"Well, I've got a little business to do. You and Leah still have the pictures, I offered to take everything out there."

"I think Lee's holding them hostage so Lexie will come here and visit." Howie laughed as Alex climbed down and headed for a toy box Howie kept in the office for him and Caroline.

"Well, according to CJ, Lexie has a job with an old roommate at an auction house. It's only temporary until Nick gets back."

"I thought she was going back to school."

"I guess not." AJ shrugged.

"What else you guys talk about?"

"Not much. When is the last time you talked to her?"

"Before the wedding. I haven't had chance to call since they got back."

"What about Leah?"

"No, I don't think she has either." Howie shrugged.

"How come?"

"We're busy AJ." Howie chuckled. AJ saw the blush rise in Howie's cheek, although Howie hadn't mentioned anything.

"Busy doing what?" AJ teased. "You been going home for lunch?"

"Just yesterday. . .stop it AJ!" Howie laughed.

"Ah, naw, good for you, buddy. You should be enjoying your life and not be cooped up in here." AJ smiled.

"We're thinking of having another baby."

"What? Are you serious?" AJ said.

"Yeah. I'd like to try at least, you know, for Caroline." Howie sighed.

"Look, I don't want to piss you off or anything, but aren't you getting just a little too old for having any more babies?" AJ smiled.

"Naw, it's not like we can't afford them. I'm thinking of reorganizing the company any ways. I'm thinking of retiring." Howie sighed.

"Oh really?"

"I don't want to live like this. This is insane. It's not the same as when I started out. I missed John's entire baseball season last year and I don't want to listen to Leah go on and on about that again." Howie chuckled.

"You thinking of selling?" AJ asked.

"Why? You wanna buy it?" Howie chuckled.

"I could. I own plenty of stock in it." He smiled.

"What would you do with MY record company?" Howie quizzed him.

"I'd hire some 20 something to run it and rake in the bucks." AJ laughed.

"You think some 20 something will know how to manage Nick Carter and Brian Littrell of the Backstreet Boys?" Howie said, shaking his head.

"Probably." AJ said seriously.

It didn't take much and both Nick and Lexie were fast asleep. Neither one of them had slept well the last couple nights and this was the result. Locked in tangled sheets, Lexie did wake once in time to set the alarm so they could get up to go pick up CJ. She nestled down back into Nick's arms and his lips found her forehead as he drifted off again.

Nick woke before the alarm and Lexie had pulled away from him while she slept. Her back to him, he reached over and spooned up behind her laying an arm over her. He lay awake and his thoughts drifted to Christine.

Two women could not be more different.

Christine had been as light as Lexie was dark. Christine had been much taller than Lexie, nearly 6 feet tall barefoot. She never liked Nick to hold her like this and would gently brush him away. Christine had never been happy here and only moved in when she was pregnant. That always hurt him to know that he hadn't made her life here at least comfortable.

He had enjoyed her. Shy to a fault, he had pursued her for months before she relented. She was so quiet that he had to always ask what she was thinking. Lexie had no problem telling him what was on her mind.

Dinner with the lioness, feeding with the pack.

Only matters what you say.

She had always seemed so fragile and he treated her more like a delicate china doll than as a woman. The pregnancy seemed to take a toll on Christine and she suffered from post partum depression for weeks afterwards. Nick figured she never got over it and that's why she left.

No warning, no explanations.

He had told her he loved her, because he felt he did at the time. He was so grateful to her for giving him CJ, that he did everything he could to make sure she was happy. She never told him she loved him, so he imagined she never did. She was never happy here, but neither was he. He had been simply resigned.

He looked around the room, one he had shared with both of them and then he realized how wrong he was to ask Lexie to live here with him. God, he had never even considered it from her point of view. Christine hadn't been the first woman to live here with him. He had kept this house as a symbol of each one of those relationships. As one by one they tried to sue him, he had always managed to retain the house. It was like his trophy or his winnings.

He looked down at Lexie's sleeping form and then over at the clock. It was nearly 1:30 in the afternoon and her hand reached back and he took it. She pulled him closer, wrapping his arm around her waist.

Breath quickening at sight

For the ruling Queen of Hearts.

Howie's skin was crawling. He didn't like doing business like this; it wasn't his style. When he hung up the phone, he felt dirty and cheap. Jill Carter's partner would be coming out to look things over for him and Lisa before she left. He didn't like the taste it left in his mouth.

"That's some face." Michelle, his assistant, laughed as she walked into his office. "Your phone call didn't go well?"

"No, it was fine."

"You don't like her, do you?" Michelle asked, setting some files on his desk.

"No, but you'll learn that about me." He said grimly.

"I'm not that new. I did work downstairs in legal for almost a year." She smiled.

The petite blonde had interviewed well for the job. She was definitely Leah's first choice. They had hit it off instantly. Her background in legal had made her quite an asset to the executive staff.

"What's all this?" he asked of the files.

"Department budgets you have to approve."

"Did you look at them?"

"Yes."

"Are they okay?"

"I made some notes."

"Where do I sign?" he sighed, looking for a pen. She pulled one from her sweater pocket and handed it to him. "Why do you wear sweaters? This is Orlando."

"I'm from Massachusetts. It's a habit." She smiled.

He smiled back and took the pen, signing his name where she told him. She closed up each file and began to pile them up. She leaned over and peered into his garbage can. He looked where she was looking.

"I'll give you a raise if you don't tell my wife." He joked.

"What was that?" she said, trying to see what he was covering up.

"Chalupas. . ."

"And?"

"A couple burritos. . ."

"You mean those kind from that little hole in the wall place, The Border Run?" she smiled.

"Oh yeah!" he smiled sinfully.

"I am so gonna tell her." She said quickly.

"Oh, damn, girl don't do this to me!" he groaned.

"Tsk, tsk, Howie!" she laughed.

Nick stretched out and felt the crick in his back. Lexie had gotten up already and was heading out to pick up CJ from school. Cook had left earlier because they would be having dinner at his mother's tonight. Him and 30 other people.

Oh man.

He got out of bed and headed to the bathroom, then straight into the shower. Lexie had laid out a dark suit for him and everything he would need. She may hate his suits, but she had a few favorites.

He hadn't heard from any of the guys, but that wasn't anything new. After he started hating his birthday, everyone had left him alone. Only CJ's birth had renewed the family's interest.

He wiped the steam from the mirror and he searched for his razor. He stared at his face for a moment.

Forty-Five.

Damn.

He barely looked a day over 35. The stress of the last couple of years and the draining weight loss made him look a little older than he would have liked. Lexie and Cook had fattened him back up since the end of the trials and he was lucky for the returning weight to plump up some of the lines in his face. A little while after they lost the baby, they both returned to the gym. It did well for both of them. Kept them in surfing shape for sure! He turned sideways for a glance, running his hand over his cotton covered rear end.

"Lose something?" he heard Lexie ask.

"Damn it!" he started.

She laughed gently at him. She walked up and smoothed her hand over his briefs.

"Don't worry about it." She smiled softly.

"I've always had the biggest ass. . ." he muttered.

"You don't have a big ass." She chuckled, pulling her hair out of the ponytail.

"Thanks little Miss-I-can-eat-whatever-I-want!" he grumbled playfully at her.

She just gave him a playful shrug and shook her hair loose.

"I can't help it! But even I've gained a few pounds living here with you and Cook!" she laughed. "Finish up and go help CJ. She's having a shoes crisis."

He shaved, brushed out his hair, and went into the bedroom to get dressed. He was up to pulling a tie on when CJ came in. He heard the shower cut off a while ago and knew Lexie was dressing by now.

CJ pulled the silk from his hand and climbed up on the bed. She silently called him over and he stood there as she looped the tie over his head.

"I thought you were having a shoes crisis." He smiled.

"I don't have any to go with that dress that Grandma bought. I told Lexie that." She sighed.

"So, you're wearing that dress?"

"I have to! I don't have any shoes!" she sighed dramatically.

"It's a very pretty dress. . ."

"Whatever." She sighed.

Nick chuckled gently as she tightened the knot at his throat. Her little hands pulled his collar down and brushed off his shoulders.

"Okay?" he asked.

"You look fine." She smiled up at him.

"You both do." Lexie said from the doorway. They looked over at her and Nick let out a low whistle.

Something short, something black and something tight. Just how he liked it. Her dark hair was tucked neatly at the nape of her neck and her silk stocking feet were still shoeless.

"Dad!" CJ groaned.

Nick laughed as Lexie came closer for a kiss.

"You know, you'd better sit down." Lexie said.

"Oh oh. . ." He groaned.

"Sit, sit! It won't be too terrible." Lexie said as she and CJ guided him to a chair by the window. "Now, go get them." She said to CJ.

Giddy, CJ ran from the room and Lexie pulled up an ottoman to sit at Nick's feet. CJ returned with two presents, handing them to Lexie as she climbed up into her Dad's lap.

"You guys. . ." he sighed.

"Happy Birthday, Nick." Lexie smiled, ignoring him. She handed him the larger of the two. He gave it a gentle shake and put his ear to it.

"It's for your trip." CJ laughed at him.

He finally opened it and pulled out the silver-framed picture of CJ and Lexie. It was one of the black and whites he had had commissioned before the wedding.

"This is beautiful." He smiled.

"You have to take it with you and put it in your room! Are you going to be staying with Poppy?"

"AJ? I don't know. I'll probably just get a hotel suite. . ." he began. "Thank you very much, ladies."

CJ quickly threw her arms around his neck and kissed his lips.

"Happy Birthday, Daddy!" she giggled.

"There's one more from us." Lexie said, resting her hand on Nick's knee. She handed him a small box and he smiled at her.

"What's this?" he asked.

"You have to open it!" CJ giggled.

Nick playfully opened it and creaked open the small wooden box.

"Wow." He muttered.

"Look at the inside of it." CJ said.

"To Nicholas, all my promises, Alexandria and Christine. . .uh, my name is spelled wrong." He said, looking up.

"It's not you!" CJ said.

"Huh?" Nick asked. Lexie watched his brows knit together and she smiled.

"Tell him the story about those dead people and. . ." CJ began eagerly.

"Wait a second! Dead people!? What is going on?" Nick said with surprise.

Lexie laughed and reached for the box and the ring. He dropped it into her hand and she held it up between them.

"Do you know what this is?" she asked.

"A ring?" he said.

"No, not that."

"Oh, uh. . .a dragon."

"That's right. What kind of dragon?"

"Uh. . .mmm. . .Japanese? Chinese?"

"Chinese, good!" Lexie said. "Do you know how old it is? CJ figured it out."

"Uh. . .I don't know." He shrugged.

"Tell him, CJ."

"It's around 100 years old. You see how the dragon's tail leaves the ring and then wraps around the side like that? They started making them like that in the 1700's, but this one was made around 1870?" she began, not quite sure of the facts.

"It is most likely that this particular ring is a 1920's reproduction of the 1700's style, including manufacturing style." Lexie added.

"But it's still a hundred years old isn't it?" CJ asked her.

"Well. . .give or take. I know that the previous owner, Nicholas Farmer was married in 1923 and that's his wedding ring." Lexie smiled.

"So there is a real Nicholas and Alexandria. . .I mean, another one, uh. . .couple?" Nick tried to asked. Lexie nodded and Nick continued with his questions. He arched a dark brow at her and asked, "So these are the dead people?"

"That Nicholas was Nicholas Farmer of Bath, England. His wife, Alexandria Lowery was from London originally. She moved to Bath after they were married." Lexie began. "This came from an estate Gina was working on. You see, the estate was owned by Alexandria's great-great niece Prudence Williams."

"Okay." He nodded.

"Well, Nicholas and his wife were in King George VI's service at the time as ambassadors to France. Some time after they were married, they were given a post in India. A very high ranking post. The problem was that Alexandria was very, very pregnant at the time of the posting. Seems that she was also having a very difficult pregnancy as well. Nicholas made plans to go ahead and set up a household in India and Alexandria would meet him after the baby was born. Hours before he was to depart, the neighbor reported Alexandria was so distraught at Nicholas leaving her that she wailed loudly for hours. It went on long into the night, but the neighbors had all gone to bed and it was quiet by morning."

Knowing that her audience was quite captured by her story, she continued.

"Knowing that Nicholas was leaving that day, it didn't surprise them that the house was quiet. They didn't expect to see Nicholas, but they did expect to see Alexandria from time to time, but she never appeared. A couple days later a neighbor insisted that a Constable break into their loft and find out where she was. When they entered the apartment; they found Nicholas' luggage and trunks beside the front door and not a soul in sight. They were never seen again."

"When did they disappear? What happened to them?" Nick asked, but Lexie just shrugged. "They didn't just disappear did they?"

"They disappeared, or rather, the day they were last seen was July 27, 1926." Lexie began.

"Wait a second! That's your birthday!" Nick said excitedly.

"Well, not 1926. . ." she laughed. "You're still older than me!"

"This is too creepy. . ." he sighed. "You're pulling my leg!"

"Nope, 'fraid not. They never appeared in India and never again in their flat." Lexie said. "They did a lot of traveling before the pregnancy and we suspect that she bought the ring for Nicholas in China. We're not sure. That estate is one of the ones I'll be working on with Gina after you've gone to Orlando."

"You'll have to tell me if you find out anything. . ." Nick said. "Promises. We say that all the time and the names and that date. . .that's too creepy!"

"But if they were married in 1923 and this is 2025, then it is a 100 years old!" CJ declared.

"Now remember, the age is considered from the manufacturer's date. We don't know exactly when this was made." Lexie said. "It's at least 100 years old. This is one of the estates Gina is hiring me to look into."

"You'll have to call, you know, and tell me what you find." Nick said.

"Oh! I will. G and I both have our hearts set on finding the bill of sale or something. It's amazing what the niece kept." Lexie smiled. Lexie finally took the ring from him and slipped it over his middle finger, next to his wedding band. "I was hoping it wouldn't be too big."

"No, it's pretty big, but it fits." He nodded after he swallowed hard. He lifted the gold to catch the light.

"You like it Daddy?" CJ asked.

"Like it? I love it! This has got to be the. . .coolest thing anyone has ever gotten me. This is so cool!" he smiled. "I'm just amazed."

"I'll let you know what we find out." Lexie said, getting to her feet. "Meanwhile, Mr. Carter, Ms. Carter. Grandma Carter is going to kick our fannies if we aren't at dinner on time."

"Well, get your shoes on!" CJ laughed, climbing off of Nick's lap. "Dad? What car are we going to take?!"

"The Mercedes, the black one! Get the keys!" he hollered after her.

Nick walked over to Lexie and caught her arm as she twisted her feet into simple black pumps, bringing her closer to eye level to him, but not quite. He kissed her cheek.

"Thanks, babe. This is really great." He smiled softly.

"I'm glad you liked it." She smiled back at him. In the distance, they heard a horn honking. "I think she's catching on to us."

Nick laughed as he picked up her shawl and she reached for her purse. He held out his other arm for her.

"Mrs. Carter?" he smiled wickedly.

"Mr. Carter." She smiled back, slipping her hand into the crook of his elbow.

"Time to face the Lioness." He said as they walked into the hall.

"And to feed with the pack." She answered him.

There was no hiding the obvious from Nick. There were a ton of cars outside his mother's house, a lot more than for 30 people. She couldn't even look at him as they pulled up. CJ climbed out and Nick handed his car off to the valet. Nick held the door for her as he waited for her to get out. He was silent as they walked hand in hand to the front door.

"I swear Nick, I only approved 30 people. . ." she whispered.

"I think the Lioness ate your guest list." He sighed heavily. She stopped in on the walkway.

"I'm sorry. Really, I am."

"I know baby. It's okay." He smiled for her, kissing her cheek.

Lexie McLean Dorough-Carter was no match for Jane Carter. Hell, most of the time she still caught Nick off guard. The only one who could handle her at all was Jill. It took some brawls, but Jane learned to back off of Jill and Aaron. She didn't dare take any kind of shot at Lexie. She and Nick had an understanding over that subject. One bad word and Jane knew she risked her visits with CJ.

They entered the house to a rousing "surprise!" and the hundreds or so faces swam in front of them. Lexie clutched onto Nick's hand, but he reassured her it was fine. Nick knew by the faces present that most were record industry people, reporters, and music columnists. . .anyone Jane thought could jump-start his career. The only faces he was happy to see were Nikki and Karen, the current president and vice president of his fan club. Nikki was still pretty new, but Karen had been around through thick and thin.

"Hi, sweetheart!" Nick smiled, wrapping his arms around her and hugging her close.

"Look at you! You look fantastic!" Karen laughed, squeezing him just as hard. "Married life agrees with you."

"Lord, I hope so!" he laughed, taking Nikki in his arms next. "It's great to see you guys."

"People can't wait for the new album!" Nikki giggled in his ear.

"I've got a ton of new material." Nick said, letting her go.

"What's with all of this? You hate your birthday and Lexie said this was going to be small." Karen said of his mother's grand plan.

"Kitty, please. How long have you been around?" he sighed, rolling his eyes.

"I know, I know. How stupid of me. So, where is Lexie? I haven't seen her all night!" Karen asked.

"You know, I haven't seen her in awhile either." Nick said, scanning the crowd.

"He's not going to be pissed at you. I can tell you that right now." Jill laughed as she and Lexie huddled in a corner by the bar.

"I know, he'll be more pissed at her. I can't believe I got suckered like that!" Lexie groaned, bringing the champagne to her lips. "I feel so stupid."

"You'll learn. I did." Jill laughed. "Have you met anyone? I mean, you are Nick Carter's new 24-year-old wife. . ."

"Oh, stop it right now!" Lexie groaned. "I've met freakin' everyone. If Nick didn't introduce me, his mother did."

"Good, don't refer to her by her name." Jill said.

"I've gotta go find Karen and Nikki." Lexie sighed.

"Good, you'll need the allies." Jill said.

"Can I count on you?"

"Got your back, chica." Jill winked.

"Good, cover me." Lexie sighed heavily.

Nick finally found sight of Lexie and waved her over. She traded her empty glass for another full one. Nikki had grabbed Nick's hand and was admiring the ring when Lexie finally joined them.

"Some bash." Karen smirked.

"Oh, please." Lexie groaned.

"This is beautiful." Nikki said of the ring.

"Thank you. A friend of mine found it in an estate." Lexie smiled.

"So when are you heading back to work? Or is it school?" Karen asked.

"Well, I took this quarter off with Nick going to Orlando and we're keeping CJ in school here." Lexie said. "I took a temp job with Gina for when he leaves."

"Nick! Nick, honey, come here!" Jane called for him.

"Good luck." Nikki laughed.

He pointed a finger at her and gave her a playful evil eye, leaving them each with kisses on their cheeks.

"I can't believe he's leaving so soon after the wedding. . ."Karen began. She saw the emotions flutter across Lexie's face. "I'm sorry, sweetie. . ."

"It's okay. It's got to be done."

"How long is he going to be gone?"

"I don't know. Depends on what they decide once he gets there, who is going to be playing on the album and whatnot." Lexie nodded with a heavy swallow of the lump caught in her throat.

"Well, I hope you stop by the fan club. . ." Nikki smiled sweetly.

"Oh! I plan to. I'm going to get Nick to agree to do the pre-release concert here in L.A." Lexie smiled.

Karen and Nikki began to contribute to the plan. They began to sweep Lexie away with talk of updating the fan newsletter with album news she would give them in the future.

Everyone was startled, especially Lexie, when Nick's squeal was heard well over the drone of the party.

"Lexie!" he hollered! "Come here, quick! Brian is here!" He had run into the living room and then ran back out.

"Hasn't seen Brian in awhile?" Nikki laughed.

"He hasn't seen his mistress in a while." Lexie winked.

Lexie made it to the front door, when Nick reached out for her hand and pulled her outside. She almost tripped over the threshold and into his arms. She looked up into his face, then to where he was looking. Brian and his daughter, Fatima, stood at the back fender of his most prized possession, his 1999 Limited Edition, Chrysler Prowler. The purple metallic finish sparkled under the flood of outdoor lights.

"I can't believe he's still doing these childish things. . ." Jane muttered behind her. Lexie didn't have time to look back at Jane as Nick dragged her down the stairs to the driveway where Brian and Fatima were. Nick and Lexie slid to a stop in front of them.

Fatima stood by the back fender closest to them; her delicate cheeks heating with color as the party guests filtered from the house to see what had gotten Nick so excited. Lexie watched Fatima suddenly grow awkward and uncomfortable at all the attention. Fatima raised her hand to show them the keys that dangled from her fingers. She gave them one good twirl around her finger before wishing Nick a happy birthday.

"Happy Birthday, Uncle Nick." she smiled.

"Oh, sweetie!" He laughed, reaching out with his arms to pick her up and spin her around. She squealed with laughter as he put her down and she handed him the keys.

"Happy Birthday, Frack." Brian smiled, slipping into Nick's arms for a hug.

"Oh, man, I can't believe you brought it for a visit." Nick smiled.

"Visit? Oh, no way man. It's yours. I have no use for this thing." Brian laughed.

"No way." Nick gasped.

"It's yours, take it." Brian said softly.

"I'll pay you back. . ." Nick began.

"No! You will not! It's a present." Brian said firmly.

"Oh man." Nick sighed.

"Aren't you gonna drive it, Uncle Nick?" Fatima piped in.

"Well. . .uh. . ." Nick stammered, looking at Lexie. She winked at him and mouthed, "Go." Her loving grin spread across her face.

"You know how to drive a stick?" Nick asked Fatima.

"Uh. . .sure." she said.

"Get in." He laughed, tossing her the keys.

"Oh no you don't!" Brian protested as Fatima caught the keys and ran to the driver's side. Nick had already turned and leaped over the door into the passenger seat. Brian ran after them, but Fatima had the car started and in gear before he got to her.

The Prowler lurched slightly, but Nick just patted her shoulder and she put it back into gear. The car purred down the driveway and away from the house to the applause of the party guests. Lexie could see Nick leaning over and coaching Fatima.

"She can't drive something like that. . ." Brian protested as he returned to the stoop where Lexie stood. The other guests were laughing and headed back inside.

"Relax Brian. Come get some food." Lexie laughed, throwing her arm around his shoulder.

Lexie and Brian headed up the stairs as the rest of the guests headed in.

Jane stood at the top of the stairs, hands on hips, ready for a confrontation. It was a look and a pose Brian had seen for years, but he was not sure Lexie knew how to handle it. Her eyes were narrowed and her pinched face was now burning red in the cheeks. Flashbacks nearly made Brian stumble as his heart trembled a bit. Jane Carter was angry and no doubt, angry at him.

"I can't believe you just let him leave like that! I did all of this for him!" She growled in Lexie's face.

"What you fail to realize, is that your son is a grown man who makes his own decisions." Lexie sniped back. "If you had done what I had asked, then none of this would have happened."

"You knew he was coming?!" she asked, as pointed her finger at Brian and her voice began to shrill.

"Yes. I knew Bri was bringing the Prowler back for Nick." Lexie said firmly.

"I did this for you, too! And that precious granddaughter of mine so you'd have a future!"

"I have a future!" Lexie snapped. "And I sure as hell don't need your help! You're the one who turned this into some kind of freak show and made him want to leave! He would have stayed, I would have asked him to stay, if I thought he was happy here!"

Brian stepped between them, raising his hands between them before their verbal assault became physical. Perhaps it was stupid of him, but his voice did seem to bring some reason into their fit.

"Stop it!" Brian said to both of them. "Lexie, maybe we better leave."

"I'll get my purse and CJ." Lexie snapped, pushing her way past the both of them.

Lexie found CJ asleep in her room at the house. Jane followed her and asked her not to take her. Lexie was so angry that spite made her want to take CJ with her just to hurt Jane. She didn't though. She left Nick's daughter in the care of her grandmother and gathered Brian as she left the house.

"It was good of you to leave her." Brian said softly as Lexie pulled the Mercedes out of the driveway and down the street away from the house.

"There was nothing good about it." Lexie growled.

"Whew, you two really go at it." he smiled.

"At least this time she didn't throw my mother and AJ in my face." Lexie sighed.

"She does that?!" Brian asked, shocked.

"Yes." Lexie said, her voice barely a cracking whisper.

"Does Nick know?" Brian asked.

"No." Lexie said quietly.

"You should tell him." Brian encouraged.

"What for? It doesn't matter what she says." Lexie shrugged.

"It matters to Nick. He wouldn't want her talking to you like that."

"What can he do? Keep CJ away from her; he'd do that, you know. I don't want that for either one of them. Don't tell him, Brian!" Lexie groaned.

Brian noticed how she ran her hand over her face, wiping invisible loose strands of hair from her face. A damp shine was under her eyes and it sparkled as the other cars drove by, flooding them in light. Brian could see her pain, even as she tried to hide it. If it was Leighanne, he'd want to know.

"I can't promise that, Lexie. I won't let her hurt you guys. . ."

"For now, please?" Lexie pleaded.

"Okay, for now. I won't say anything." Brian agreed. "Where are you going?"

"To where Nick and Fatima are." Lexie smiled with a sniffle.

"Did I miss something? You talked to him?" Brian laughed.

"No, I just know." she chuckled.

Lexie pulled the slick luxury car into an ocean lookout next to the Prowler. Nick and Fatima were just coming up from the beach; Fatima wrapped in Nick's jacket. Fatima broke from Nick and ran straight into her Dad's arms. Brian held her close and laughed with her.

"How was it? Did you drive all the way here?" Brian asked.

"It was great, Dad!" she laughed. "I got to drive part of the way, then Nick took it out on the freeway."

"Oh, God! Don't tell me anymore!" Brian groaned.

Nick took Lexie into his arms and kissed her deeply. He touched his nose to hers and smiled.

"Thanks, baby." he smiled. "Fatima spilled the beans."

Lexie snuggled deeper into his arms. The silk of his untied hair brushed against her hands on his back. Fatima reached over and brushed a few strands from Nick's shoulder.

"You're a mess now." she laughed.

"You too." he chuckled, ruffling her shock of blonde hair.

"Stop it, you two." Brian laughed, pulling Fatima back into his arms. "Come on, we'll leave you two alone."

Nick took the keys for the Mercedes from Lexie and tossed them to Brian.

"Go on to the house and grab a guestroom. I guess CJ stayed at Mom's?"

"Yeah, poor little thing was already asleep." Brian smiled. "Night, you guys."

"Night and thanks, Brian." Lexie waved.

"Anything for the woman who loves my best friend." he said softly. "Come on, Tima. Get in the car."

Brian held the passenger door and took Nick's jacket from her. Nick left Lexie standing near the Prowler and retrieved his jacket. He and Brian exchanged a few words and Nick embraced Brian one last time. Nick returned to Lexie and watched as Brian and Fatima pulled out and headed home. He slipped the jacket around Lexie and pulled her close.

"You didn't drive with your hair untied, did you?" she asked.

"No, I waited until I got here." he chuckled, coming in for a quick kiss. "We went down to the beach for a little walk. It's a beautiful night, Mrs. Carter."

"Yes, it is." she groaned as she looked up into his angelic face. "I love you, Nick."

"Oh, baby, I love you too." he moaned, pressing her against the car as his mouth met hers.

His kiss was the kind that always made Lexie melt. The kisses that he started with the soft tip of his tongue on her lips; tasting and tugging until she granted him entrance. His entrance was slow and deliberate as he raised his hands to the sides of her face, slipping his fingers into her dark hair and freeing it from its pins.

The pins that held her dark tresses scattered in all different directions as he pushed to free her hair from its perfectly coifed style. His lips left hers and he looked down at her; her eyes closed and her now moist lips slightly open. He cupped the back of her head and brought her to him again, taking the luxury of tasting her love on his lips.

His hands traveled down the generous curve of her back as he pulled her close into her arms. Smoothing his hands over her rear, his kiss stopped, although he didn't remove his lips from hers. His hands went over her bottom several times. He pulled back and looked down at her.

"Don't tell me."

"Happy Birthday?" she shrugged with a slight smile.

"You were in my mother's house."

"I know. I was hoping for it to happen there."

"In my mother's house?"

"Well, at some point tonight."

"You have no panties on." he smirked.

"I know."

"When did you take them off?" he smiled.

"I didn't put them on."

"What?!" he laughed.

She smiled and shrugged her shoulders. He reached around her and opened the passenger door, his eyes crinkling as he smiled widely. She took his offer and dropped onto the leather seat, drawing her legs up into the car. He closed the door, and like an overeager teenager, ran around the front of the car and jumped into the driver's seat.

He sat still for just a moment, before he looked over and patted his lap. She laughed, then looked over her shoulders both ways. She looked at the floorboards for a second, then she heard his voice in the dark.

"Leave the shoes on." His seductive voice purred at her.

"Any way you want it, Birthday Boy." she purred back, twisting toward him to straddle his waist.

She watched him with hooded eyes steaming with passion. With one last good look over her shoulder, Nick embraced their passion and bucked against her almost as though he had no will of his own. He was sure he didn't and that she had some kind of magical control over him, but he didn't care. He didn't care unless there was a chance he would lose it.

The house was dark as they pulled up in front of it. Nick went in and opened the garage door as Lexie pulled the Prowler into its own little shelter. She got out, handing him his jacket and the keys.

"Good to have her home?" she smiled, walking with him into the house.

"Jealous?" he teased, shutting the light and closing the door.

"Naw." she chuckled, cutting into the laundry room. She kicked off her shoes and reached under her skirt to remove her stockings. He leaned in the doorway, watching. "Enjoying the show?"

"Reminds me of another time." he smiled.

She turned her back to him and he unzipped the dress. She shrugged out of it, then removed her bra and threw it in the washer.

"You'd better put something on. Brian and Tima are here."

She rooted around in the clean laundry, found one of his shirts and pulled it on.

"Happy?" she smiled.

"More than I can ever say." he whispered, choking on his words. Stepping close, she reached up and ran a thumb over his cheek.

"Happy Birthday, baby." she whispered back. She raised up on her toes and kissed his lips lightly. "Let's go upstairs and see if we can work some of these knots out." She said, trying to slip her fingers through his hair.

Nick left his jacket behind in the laundry room, took her hand and went up into the bedroom. He changed into some shorts to sleep in and she sat him down in the bathroom. She picked and brushed his hair out until it shined. Lexie put the brush down at one point and just ran her fingers through it, reaching up to massage his scalp. His eyes closed and he tipped his head forward until his chin was against his chest. She reached for the counter, finding a band to tie his hair back so he could sleep more easily. The silky strands slipped over her hands and through the band effortlessly.

"All done." she said softly.

He lifted his head and in the mirror she could see the tears that had silently streaked down his face. She rushed around to face him.

"Nick, baby, what's wrong? Are you okay?" she asked hurriedly.

He simply took her hands and brought them to his salted lips, shaking his head 'no'.

"Why are you crying?" she asked, but he just continued to shake his head. "Can you talk about it?"

Still, he shook his head 'no'.

"Let's go to bed, then?" she asked, realizing the flood of emotions raging through him.

He nodded 'yes' and got up. They turned off the lights and climbed into bed. Lexie snuggled up against his side, where she had spent most of this last year. He snuggled down until his head was tucked under her chin and she was holding him. Her hand came up and smoothed a few loose strands from his now warm forehead.

"Shhhh, honey, it'll be okay. I promise." she whispered in the darkness.

Nick's warm forehead was more than a symptom of him being upset, he was running a fever by 6:00 a.m. The first warning cough came, then another and by the time Lexie heard Fatima and Brian later in the morning, Nick was positively wheezing. She was able to get him up and in a cool shower, then to take some cold medicine. He returned to bed for the rest of the morning.

Lexie got up and tended to Brian and Fatima. Fatima recounted her wild ride with Nick the night before over and over. CJ called and asked if she could spend another night at Grandma's. Lexie agreed, since Nick was going to be sick most of the weekend. Brian was there when she hung up the phone.

"You are very gracious to Nick's mother." he said. Lexie just looked back over at him.

"She's his mother and CJ's grandmother. I have to show her some respect, even if she doesn't show me any." Lexie sighed.

"That sounds like Howie talking." Brian chuckled.

"Well, he's my Dad." she chuckled with him. "So, when is your guys' flight out?"

"Well, I scheduled it late, expecting to spend some time with Nick."

"I'm sorry. I don't see that happening." she smiled. "I've got enough cold medicine in him to drop a horse. He'll be out of it most of the day."

"It'll be good for him. Are you sure she didn't poison him?" Brian joked.

"Now who's being evil?" she laughed.

"I promised Tima the sights and we'll catch our flight out this evening."

"I'm sorry, Bri, I wish we could have come with you." Lexie said.

"I know, I know. It's fine. I still know my way around L.A." he said, putting an arm around her and steering her out of the kitchen. "So, when are you guys moving to Orlando?"

"Brian! Sh! You weren't suppose to mention that!" Lexie gasped.

"You were so excited when we last talked. You changed your mind?" he asked.

"No, it's just Nick didn't want anyone to know yet. He doesn't want CJ to find out before he tells her." Lexie smiled as they stepped out on to the veranda. "Did you get that address for me?"

"Of Nick's old house in Tampa? Sure, it's in my wallet. What do you want that for?" he asked as they sat down at a table.

"I thought I'd look into seeing if we could buy it again. He's talked about it enough times and we both love the ocean so much it would be perfect."

"Do you really want to live in another house where he lived with other women?" Brian asked.

"None of that matters any more, Brian. Nick loves me and I can't help he had a life before me. I live here. It only matters that we're together." she said.

"You keep talking like that and I'm gonna fall in love with you." he chuckled.

"Funny, Bri." she chuckled with him.

"Lexie?" Fatima spoke from the glass doors. "Nick is asking for you."

Lexie looked at her watch as she got to her feet.

"He's up already?" she said, shaking her head.

"Tima, get your bags. I called a car earlier and we're going to go sight seeing before we head home." Brian said, following Lexie in.

Lexie jogged upstairs to find Nick sitting up in bed. His face was red and hot. His eyes were drifting shut.

"Nick, you need to go back to bed."

"What happened?" he groaned.

"You just caught something last night." she sighed.

"I gotta piss."

"Thank you for that lovely commentary. Let's go." she chuckled, reaching for his hand. He took hers, groaning as he got up and slowly stumbled into the bathroom.

As he stood going, he asked her, "Where's Frick and Frack?"

"They are going sight-seeing. Their flight is tonight."

"That bites."

"Yes it does."

"Lex?"

"Hmm?"

"I feel like shit."

"I know, baby." she smiled as he pulled himself together and stopped to wash his hands and face. He stumbled past her and got back into bed.

"Lex?"

"Yes, Nick?"

"Can you get the fairy bunny?" he groaned.

"I can do that." she chuckled.

She returned with the pink rabbit and placed a moist compress on his head. He snuggled down into the blankets and she left to say good bye to Brian and Fatima. She thanked them for bringing the car back to Nick and stood on the front stoop, waving good-bye as they rode off.

The rest of Saturday went quietly as Nick rested. Lexie kept Nick hydrated, cooled and medicated most of the day. Sunday morning, he was only slightly better and she began to worry. How would he ever handle their meeting with Christine and her attorney if he wasn't better by Monday morning? Could Sabrina convince them to reschedule until Nick was better?

By Sunday evening, Lexie was on the phone with his doctor's answering service. The doctor thought it was important for him to see Nick, so she made an appointment for first thing Monday. She made arrangements with Jane for her driver to come and pick up CJ's school things. Lexie reassured CJ that her father only had a cold and that he would be better soon.

There was no time to enjoy sunrises, Cook's hot coffee, or hot crossed buns as Lexie hustled about getting Nick up, dressed and in a hired car. It would be a tight squeeze getting from one office to the other with the meeting with Christine being at 10 that morning. Not knowing what was going to happen, neither she or Nick wanted to bother with driving.

Lexie was in the hallway of the doctor's office calling Sabrina's home early as Nick was being examined.

"Hello?" Sabrina answered.

"Sabrina? It's Lexie." Lexie sighed.

"Good morning, what can I do for you? Is everything alright?"

"No, well, yes. Nick is sick. Sabrina, I don't think he can make any decisions today. I'm sure he's got another sinus infection and the doctor will put him on pain medications."

"Hmmm. Well, unfortunately, I don't know what their demands are. I doubt they will be expecting an immediate answer from you. Are Nick's wishes the same? He doesn't want her to see CJ at all?"

"I don't know. I guess. I think he's also waiting to see what she wants." Lexie said, watching the door for Nick.

"Well, bring him and he can just sit through the meeting. How alert is he?"

"Oh, he's alert, but he just feels awful, especially since he meant to spend the weekend with CJ."

"I can understand that, I'm sure the pain isn't helping either. I've got enough to make them wait for a rebuttal of their demands. Don't worry about it. We can wait to make any decisions once his head is clear." Sabrina reassured her.

"Thank you, Sabrina. I'm so sorry to call so early. . ."

"Anytime. You can call me at anytime." Sabrina reassured her.

Lexie was hanging up from her call when Nick came out of the office, putting prescriptions in his pocket.

"You call Sabrina?" he asked. "What did she say?"

"We'll go through with the meeting. She said we don't have to make any decisions today. What did the doctor say?"

"Some kind of virus and a sinus infection." Nick sighed. "Let's go get these filled and head to the office."

Howie Dorough hadn't minced words with Tina. He had told her exactly what he thought of doing business her way and her 'fight fire with fire' speech, but he still wasn't happy. Tina wondered why that bothered her. This wouldn't be the first time she had worked for clients who didn't like her methods, only her results.

"I just want my company when you're done." Howie said firmly. "I need this for my wife and children's future. Do you understand me, Ms. Ryans?"

She understood it. She had done it hundreds of times. She went back to pouring over the documents Lisa had sent her from Orlando and her "proof" that SDR was ripe for a hostile takeover. Now, who are the major stock holders? Why did this B.N. Holdings, Inc. concern her?

The conference table was clear of everything, except a pitcher of water, glasses and a box of tissues. Sabrina brought nothing in with her, but had a law clerk hovering to bring her what she'd need once she knew what it was. She stretched out her legs under the table as she sat in the room alone. Of all the research they had done, Sabrina had a feeling that Christine's demands would be few. There came a knock on the door and Sabrina's assistant, Star, poked her head inside.

"Mr. and Mrs. Carter are here." She announced.

Sabrina brought her legs back underneath her and got to her feet.

"Let them in." Sabrina smiled. "Nick, Lexie."

They all shook hands and Sabrina sat Nick to her immediate right and Lexie to Nick's right. Nick looked like walking death.

"You going to be alright?" Sabrina asked.

"Fine. I got some antibiotics this morning. They should kick in."

"Did the doctor give you any pain medication? Have you taken them?"

"He gave them to me, but I haven't take them yet." Nick sighed, suddenly breaking into a coughing fit. Lexie and Sabrina both reached for a glass to give him some water. Sabrina let Lexie care for Nick. Lexie poured and he gratefully took it. Sabrina slid the box of tissues closer, but Nick had his own in his pocket.

"What did the doctor say was wrong with you?" Sabrina asked.

"Sinus infection and some virus." he said, clearing his throat and drinking a little more water. Sabrina reached over and squeezed his hand.

"I'll do everything I can to make this quick, okay?"

"Thank you." he nodded.

Nick hadn't spoken to Lexie about the meeting all morning. He hadn't said one word until he asked her to call and explain the situation to Sabrina. His hand reached for Lexie's under the table. It was ice cold as she held it and it trembled in hers. She was sure he felt miserable, as well as stressed by the upcoming events.

Another knock came at the door and it was Star again.

"Ms. James and her attorney, Mr. Silverstone." Star announced. All three of them got to their feet and waited for the other two to enter the room.

Lexie had seen plenty of pictures of Christine. She was tall, blonde and very beautiful. She was stunning with a child-like look in her eyes at times. She never looked very happy, but Nick had said she never had been happy at the house. A head full of sun-kissed golden hair, framing a perfect heart shaped face with these incredible blue eyes. Like his. Like CJ's. She had been vibrant and so full of life.

Nothing like the woman that stood in front of them.

Lexie heard Nick gasp, then break into a fit of coughing. Christine's lawyer took that advantage to sit them at the far end of the conference table, with Christine to his left on Lexie's side of the table. About a half of dozen chairs separated them.

Lexie just nodded as Sabrina introduced her, but she turned her attention back to pouring Nick some more water and smoothing his back as his coughing settled. Seeing Lexie care for Nick in a loving manner was exactly what Sabrina wanted the other attorney to see.

"I'm sorry to see you're under the weather, Mr. Carter." Mr. Silverstone said, opening his briefcase.

"Thank you, but I'm fine." Nick said, straightening his posture after wiping his nose one last time.

Joshua Silverstone was a young man. He was not much older than Sabrina herself. He was of average height and average weight. He was just that. . .average. They hadn't been able to gather any info on him, so Sabrina was hoping he was a straight up kind of guy. She knew better than to assume anything about anyone.

Sabrina caught Lexie's eyes on Christine; no doubt waging a war of her own inside. Sabrina hoped that her shock hadn't registered on the outside. This woman before them, was not the same Christine who walked out on Nick nearly seven years ago.

She wore a dark suit that was a couple of years outdated. Her skin was pale and thin, drawn taut against her angled cheekbones. Her head was wrapped a silk scarf, no doubt one she had had for years. It even looked familiar to Sabrina. If Lexie didn't realize it, Sabrina knew that Christine James was dying. It looked as though it would not be a gentle death either.

"Mr. Carter, as you know, Ms. James is here to discuss her daughter, Christine Jane. . ."

"She's MY daughter." Nick snapped. Sabrina reached and laid a hand on Nick's.

"I realize how you must feel. . ."

"No, you have no idea!" Nick said angrily.

"Nick, please. Mr. Silverstone, please direct your comments to me." Sabrina said firmly. "Mr. Carter and his wife are prepared to listen to your statements."

"My client, Ms. James. . . Christine. . . would like to make arrangements to. . ."

Nick was on his feet in a fury, but his protests were violently interrupted by fits of coughing. He tried to wave both Sabrina and Lexie off.

"Mr. Silverstone, if you'll excuse us. Mr. Carter needs to collect himself. Lexie, wait here." Sabrina ordered, steering Nick out of the conference room.

Lexie sat herself back down and crossed her legs, dropping her eyes to her hands in her lap. She began to absently twist her wedding ring back and forth. She lifted her head a couple of times towards the door as though looking for Nick. She could see people moving back and forth through the mini-blind covered windows out into the offices.

There came another knock and Star came in the room.

"Excuse me. Mr. Silverstone? Ms. Carlson would like to see you in her office."

"I thought we would be meeting in here." he said, getting to his feet. "I haven't requested closed door meetings."

"I believe she'd like to reschedule for tomorrow because Mr. Carter isn't well." Star said.

"Is he alright?" Lexie asked.

"He's fine. He's in the restroom collecting himself. Mr. Silverstone, if you'll follow me." Star insisted. He followed her out, leaving the two women alone behind a closed door.

Fairy bunnies guide me. . .

"You're dying." Lexie said simply without looking up. There was a long silence before she answered.

"Yes."

Lexie got out of her chair and walked the length of the table, taking a seat next to her. Christine hadn't looked up since she came into the room. She did so as Lexie sat down. Her hollow eyes lifted to Lexie's.

"You're beautiful." Christine whispered. "I've seen pictures from the wedding. . ."

"I've seen pictures too. Well, not of the wedding. My folks haven't sent them yet." Lexie chuckled softly.

Lexie's hand reached into Christine's lap and lifted her hand until it was resting on the table.

"Do you want to see CJ?" Lexie asked.

"Yes. Can you talk to Nick?" Christine said, her eyes filling with tears.

"Yes, I can." Lexie nodded.

Christine's bottom lip began to tremble as the tears tumbled from her eyes down her pale, drawn cheeks. Lexie got up and brought her the box of tissues, pulling a few out and handing them to Christine. The other woman blotted her face, wiping her eyes.

"Tell me what I can do." Lexie said.

"You're not only beautiful, you're kind." Christine said, almost bitterly. "I have ovarian cancer. They've done everything they could for me, but it's too late now."

"I'm so sorry. I promise, I'll talk to Nick about CJ. . ."

Christine's bony hand came out and took Lexie's again. Lexie's eyes went from the tight grip Christine had on her hand to her eyes.

"There's more, so much more. . ." Christine choked.

"What? What is it?" Lexie asked.

"My. . . my. . ."

"Yes? You can tell me." Lexie encouraged. Christine looked away and let go of Lexie's hand. She knotted the tissues in her hands in her lap.

"I have no right to ask this."

"Please, tell me what I can do for you."

"I have a son, Lexie. His name is Scotty; he's only four years old. Lexie, if. . . when I die. He doesn't have anywhere to go. I want him to be with you and Nick." She said, taking Lexie's hand with a sense of urgency and desperation. "Please. . .please talk to Nick. He. . . he's not Nick's if you're wondering. . ."

"No, I. . ." Lexie stammered, but the conference room door opened and her attorney, Sabrina and Nick all returned.

Christine quickly let go of Lexie and got to her feet.

"We've rescheduled." Mr. Silverstone said. Christine only nodded, as she headed for the door. Nick and Sabrina gave her a wide berth. Her attorney gauged Lexie's face for a hint of what his client may have said to her. He collected his things, gave proper good-byes to everyone and headed out.

Lexie hadn't moved from the spot where Christine had left her.

I have a son. . .

When Nick and Sabrina had asked Lexie how she was, she said 'fine'. She stood up and straightened her suit jacket, gathered her purse, and followed Nick downstairs to the waiting car. They got in and drove away from the law firm without any fuss.

In the car, Nick continued to cough and sneeze. Lexie tended to him, but seemed far away when they settled down for the ride home. She held his hand, but turned away from him and stared out the tinted windows.

Once home, she released the driver and went into the house after Nick. They went upstairs to change without speaking until Lexie suggested he take some pain medication and take a nap. Nick was down to his briefs and a t-shirt when he took his first dose. He took the pill, then the water from her hand, and she put him to bed. She clicked off the table lamp, but before she could get off the bed to leave, he caught her hand.

"Fairy bunnies know when you're lying." he chuckled, trying to ease her tension.

"I'm sorry, Nick." she mumbled.

He sat up on his elbows. "Now you have me worried. What did she say to you? She did say something, didn't she?"

Lexie only nodded.

"Tell me."

"I. . .can't right now. . .I'm sorry. Go to sleep and let me sort it out." she said, beginning to choke on her words.

"Lexie, you have to tell me."

"I know, I know. I will, I promise. Just let me think about it, okay? You need to rest." She leaned over to kiss his still warm forehead.

"I want you to tell me."

"I will, but I have to find the words." she said quietly. "Please, Nick."

He lay back down without another word. She tucked the blankets around him and left the room, closing the door behind her.

An hour passed, and Lexie found herself wandering the halls, finally stopping to look at her watch. It was barely noon, which meant it was nearly 3 in Orlando. Lexie went into the den and closed the door. She sat at Nick's desk, picked up the phone, and dialed his office number.

"SDR Records." Lexie heard after two rings.

"Howie Dorough, please." she choked, trying to rein in her emotions.

"May I ask who's calling?"

"His daughter, Lexie."

"Of course, hold on."

Lexie seemed to be on hold forever when the line picked up and she heard a familiar voice.

"Lexie?"

"Michelle?"

"Hi, honey." she chuckled.

"Uh. . .can I talk to my Dad?"

"He's in a meeting right now."

"Is it really important? Could you get him out of it?" Lexie pleaded. The phone was pressed up against her ear as her head dropped into her hands.

"I'll ask him. Hang on, dear."

Howie looked up as Michelle walked into the room. She came quietly to his side and whispered in his ear that Lexie really needed to talk to him. Howie excused himself and followed Michelle out to the hall.

"Is it really important?" Howie asked Michelle.

"I think so. She sounds pretty upset." Michelle nodded.

Howie scratched his chin and looked over his shoulder at the closed meeting room door, then back to her.

"I'll take it in my office. Tell those guys they can go home. I've heard about all the teenage screeching I can handle." Howie smiled, turning to head down the hall to his office.

Once there, he closed the door and settled into his chair before picking up the receiver.

"Hey, Sweetheart." he smiled.

"Oh, Daddy. . ." was all he heard before he heard her break down in tears.

"Lexie? Honey? Are you okay? Baby, what's wrong? Is it Nick? Did he do something?" Howie asked.

"No, no, no. . ." she protested between sobs. "I'm so scared, Dad. I don't know what to do."

In between sobs and hiccups, she told him the whole story. The way Christine's lawyer called; how they were afraid of losing CJ; how, when Lexie was alone with Christine, Christine told her why she was trying to contact them in the first place.

"What do you know about the boy?" Howie asked.

"Nothing. I don't know anything."

"What does Nick say about all of this?"

"He doesn't know yet."

"He doesn't know?!"

"He wasn't in the room when she told me. He's sick and taking a nap right now. I promised to tell him when he wakes up. I don't know how to tell him. Dad, I don't know what I'm gonna say." she sobbed. "What about CJ? It's wrong of him to keep them apart. She has the right to know her mother and her brother."

"Are you sure he'll keep them apart?"

"I'm sure he will. He wasn't going to let her back into CJ's life when he thought she was healthy." Lexie said, her sobs easing.

"What did you tell him about that?" Howie asked.

"I didn't. He's CJ's father, and he didn't ask my opinion."

"When did that ever stop you?" Howie chuckled.

"Dad!" she giggled.

How he missed hearing her girlish giggles. How he had missed her so much since she ran away, leaving him standing in AJ's hotel suite a couple of years ago. She ran straight to Nick and never seemed to look back.

Until now.

Now that she needed someone, she called him. His heart swelled with pride and love, as he fought the battle to turn her back over to Nick. He was her husband now, but she was so young and he loved her so much.

"Dad? You still there?" he heard her ask.

"Yeah, baby, I'm still here." he smiled softly into the phone.

"Oh. . .you know, I think Nick is up." she said suddenly. "I'd better go."

"Oh, okay." Howie said.

"Thanks, Dad."

"Honey, I didn't do anything." He chuckled.

"You listened to me. Like always. I love you, Dad."

"I love you, little girl." he said softly. "Just talk to Nick. You'll work it out."

"Okay. . .yes, he's definitely up. I'd better go."

"Okay, I'll talk to you later."

"See ya." she said, hanging up the phone.

Howie stared at the phone receiver until it buzzed the 'off the hook' tone at him. His little girl. AJ's little girl. Nick's wife. He hung up the phone and closed his eyes. He did miss her terribly.

Lexie found Nick coming down the stairs as she was heading up. His hair was a mess again, laying about his face and shoulders like a wildman.

"Any better?" she asked.

He just grunted and moved past her into the kitchen. He made a beeline for the refrigerator. Lexie followed him and handed him a glass. He filled it with ice water and drank two glasses before he stopped.

"Better?" she asked softly.

He walked over and put the glass in the sink. "My head still hurts."

"Want to go lay back down?"

"You come with me?" he asked.

"Of course. Come on." She smiled as he slipped his arm over her shoulder and they headed upstairs.

Once upstairs, Lexie kicked off her shoes and climbed under the covers with him. He snuggled up and settled his head on her shoulder, neatly tucking his head under her chin.

"Are you going to tell me now?" he asked quietly. He felt her take a deep breath.

"Christine is dying."

"What?!" he declared suddenly, lifting his head to look at her. "I just thought it was drugs or something. . ."

"She has cancer. She doesn’t have a lot of time left."

"Oh my god. . ." he breathed, his voice trailing off as he looked away from her.

"She wants to see CJ before she dies." Lexie continued. Nick remained in his stunned silence. "There’s more."

"What?" he asked, looking back at her.

"She has a four year old son as well. . ."

"She has what?!" he groaned, interrupting Lexie.

"She wants us to raise him once she’s gone."

"No way! There is no way in hell I’m raising her kid!" Nick snapped, sitting all the way up.

"Nick, listen. . ." Lexie began, but he had already thrown back the covers and began to get out of bed.

"NO! I mean it, Lexie! I’m not doing this!" he snapped.

"Nick! Just listen to me. . ." she began.

"The kid must have a father. . .unless she doesn’t know who it is." He snarled.

"Just listen to me. . ."

"I've done enough for that woman, I'm not doing any more. I’m not going to ask you to do it either. . ."

"What if I volunteered?" Lexie said in a calmer tone than Nick’s.

"NO! Goddamn it, Lexie, I mean it!"

"What about CJ?"

"What about her?" he growled.

"She has the right to know her mother. . ."

"She has no idea who her mother is! She doesn't even care! We’ll just tell her she's dead." Nick growled as he paced.

"She does care. . ."

"How the hell would you know?!" he snapped.

"Because I know, Nick. I've been there. I was older when I lost my mother. . ."

"You knew who she was. CJ has never known her, she won’t even miss her!"

"If she finds out the truth, Nick, she'll hate you!" Lexie said, crawling out of the bed and going to face him. "Do you want that? Do you want what happened to me and AJ to happen to you and CJ? Do you? Christine is her mother, whether you like it or not."

"Do you want to make CJ watch Christine die? Is that what you want to do? When she's older, she'll understand. Am I supposed to bring her into CJ's life just for her to leave again?"

"It's better than lying to her!"

"I'm protecting her! She's my daughter, and I know what's best for her!"

"You're wrong, Nick!"

"I'm what?!"

"Nick, CJ has the right to know her mother and her brother."

"No, Lexie, I mean it! I'm not letting that woman back in this house."

"Nick, you can't let your feelings for Christine affect how you treat CJ."

"No, it isn't going to happen!" Nick insisted.

Lexie let out a heavy sigh and turned from him to crawl up on the bed. She lay down and threw an arm over her eyes.

"I wish we could talk about this. . ." she began, but there was no point. Nick had left the room and was, no doubt, headed to the basement studio. "I still think you're wrong."

CJ was home for dinner that evening, but Nick has gone back to bed after some more medication. Lexie and CJ talked over Cook's leftovers until it was time for the little girl to go to bed. She got into her pajamas and went to crawl into bed with Nick. The two of them were asleep in no time.

Lexie couldn't sleep. Even after laps in the pool and a hot, hot shower, she couldn't unwind.

"No, Lexie, I mean it! I'm not letting that woman back in this house."

She believed him, too. He wouldn't, unless she could convince him otherwise. How was she ever going to do that? When Christine left him alone to raise CJ, she had hurt him in ways Lexie was sure even Nick didn’t understand. Hell, she wasn't even sure she understood them.

She sat wrapped in her robe in the sunroom, turning to catch Nick's mementos on a distant windowsill. A toy wooden sailboat, an old Mariner’s eyeglass, seashells and one ship in a bottle. So many of her things were still in Orlando. . .Orlando. Everything she needed was in Orlando.

"Dad?" CJ asked as Nick came back from the bathroom the next morning.

"Yeah, baby?"

"How come Lexie slept downstairs?" she asked, sitting up.

"I. . .uh. . . I don't know. Maybe she just fell asleep down there." He stammered.

"Lexie always sleeps with you."

"Well, maybe she stayed up studying or something. You know how she likes to read all the time." He shrugged. "Come on, little girl. Time for your shower."

CJ was showered and getting dressed when Nick finally went downstairs. Cook was there already and cooking CJ's breakfast. He and Lexie weren't big breakfast eaters.

"What did you do?" Cook said as he opened the refrigerator for some juice.

"What? I didn't do anything."

"I know she slept downstairs." Cook whispered harshly.

"It was nothing." He lied. Cook just snorted at him and acknowledged CJ's presence.

"Come on, CJ. Let's eat so I can take you to school."

"Lexie isn't taking me?" CJ asked as she sat at the table.

"No, Lexie had to go run some errands this morning." Cook began.

"Where'd she go?" Nick asked. Cook gave him a cool look.

"She left that for you." Cook said pointing to the closed refrigerator door.

A note, written in her handwriting, was under a magnet.

Master of the House is not heeding

And Princess' day has ended.

"What did she say?" CJ asked.

"She's going to pick you up after school. Cook, can you get the dry cleaning? I'll be in the studio." He sighed.

"Where'd she go?" Cook asked.

"To see Jill."

Lexie meant to go to see Jill and Sabrina, but she knew they wouldn't give her the information she wanted. She wanted Christine's phone number. Chances were that they didn't have any other number but her lawyer's.

"Hey, Lex-girl!" she heard the gruff voice call for her across the lobby.

That's why she was here at Marty Portlowe's office. She needed a private detective.

He lumbered his huge roly-poly body across the lobby and drew her into a sloppy bear hug; one she was sure would snap her spine.

"You got some more work for your Uncle Marty?" he teased.

Lexie choked to catch her breath, but he didn't even notice as he dragged her by her hand into his office. He sat her in a leather chair across from his desk, and his high-backed leather office chair creaked loudly as he settled himself in it.

"You know, I haven't been able to finish up that ring thing. . ."

"Oh, no. This isn't about that, Marty."

"I like it when you pretty little girls bring me those little artsy things of yours." He directed a cutesy smile toward her.

"I know you do, and we appreciate you tracking down that jeweler, but my situation is a little more personal."

"Oh really? Is that no good husband of yours cheating on you already? I'll kill the bastard for you. . ."

"No, no!" she laughed. "It's not Nick, but it's his ex-girlfriend, CJ's mother."

"Really? Hmmm, what do you need?"

"I need to know her phone number and address. I have an old picture, her lawyer's name, and. . ."

"Why don't you just call her lawyer?

"I don't want to talk to him.

"Why the sudden interest in the angel's mother? Huh? She trying to hit that husband of yours up for some money?"

"No, not exactly. We did have a meeting with her. . .Marty? She's dying, and she has a son."

"That bastard had another kid with her!" he declared, pulling himself up to his feet. The effort it took to get his huge frame up as quickly as he did in protest was not lost on Lexie.

"No, no! It's not Nick's, although I'd like to know who the father is. She's dying and she wants to see CJ and she wants me and Nick to take the boy. . ."

Marty's graying bushy eyebrows knitted together as he sat down again with a large huff.

"What are you doing, girl?"

"I'm not exactly sure. I need to talk to her." Lexie admitted quietly.

"What do you need?"

"I need her phone number and address, what her finances are like, who the boy's father is, and to confirm how sick she really is." Lexie said, setting some papers on the desk in front of him.

"That husband of yours know you're here?" Marty asked seriously.

"No, and I don't want him to find out."

"Not a word, missy, I promise." He grunted. "All that, huh? Shouldn't take too long."

"Good. The sooner, the better." Lexie nodded.

Daily errands kept Lexie out all day until it was time to pick up CJ. CJ had some questions about Lexie and Nick's fight, but Lexie told her not to worry. Lexie was sure that she and Nick would come to some resolution.

CJ ran into the house from the garage, banging her backpack along the way. Lexie met Cook in the kitchen, and she told Lexie that Nick had slept off and on all day, but was down in the studio right now. Lexie found CJ's backpack on the top of the stairs leading down to the studio. She left it there as she went down and let herself in. CJ was sitting on Nick's lap, and they stopped talking when she came into the room.

"CJ, you left your books on the stairs. Please take them to your room and change into some play clothes." Lexie asked politely. CJ looked back at Nick and then clamored down.

"Okay." She said as she ran out and slammed the door behind her, leaving Nick and Lexie alone.

"How come you didn't come to bed?" Nick asked, turning his back to her and fidgeting with the console in front of him.

"I couldn't sleep. No point keeping everyone awake." Lexie said.

"I'm not going to discuss Christine seeing CJ again." Nick said firmly.

"Okay." Lexie said. For now.

"I don't want you talking to her either. I thought you were going to meet with Jill and Sabrina?" Nick said, finally turning back to her.

"I didn't make it." Lexie said, steadily meeting his gaze. He broke off first.

"I called down there."

"I figured, since you knew I hadn't been there."

"I do listen to you. I heard what you said last night." He said quietly. "How come you were going to see Sabrina?"

"I want to remove my name from the adoption request and stop the papers."

"Why?! Don't you want to adopt CJ?!" he asked, shocked.

"I'd love to, but signing those papers would legally make me her mother. No piece of paper is going to change that you're her father first and you have no intention of letting me help raise her."

"Lexie, that isn't fair."

"You want me to tell you what isn't fair? It's not fair to deny CJ her mother for what little time they have left. It's not fair to deny CJ the chance at another mother, me. It's not fair that what demons you have rolling around inside there are let loose to eat at all of us." Lexie sighed. "If you are not willing to even discuss CJ and Christine, then I am not willing to continue with the adoption."

"God, Lexie, why are you doing this?" Nick asked. Lexie could hear the hurt and disbelief in his voice.

"I think you're wrong, and I'm trying to make a point." Lexie said.

"Do you have to do it like this?" he asked.

"It's the only way I can think of." She sighed. "I love you, Nick. I always will, but I signed on to be your life partner, not some damn trophy wife."

"But you didn't go see Sabrina?" he asked.

"No, not yet."

"Then there is time for you to change your mind?" he said, getting up and taking her by the arms. She didn't look up to meet his eyes.

"Will you consider changing yours?" she asked quietly.

Nick sighed heavily and then dropped his forehead on top of her head. Her body was tight, and she was geared for a fight. He drew her in and held her close to him.

"I'll consider it."

It wasn't yes, it wasn't no, but it was enough to get on with their lives. They all settled down as a family over another one of Cook's fabulous meals of chicken and dumplings. CJ could still sense the tension between them, but they seemed to be getting along for the most part.

Nick asked her about her day, and she told them about a boa constrictor that came to visit the class. She tattled on Jane, who got in trouble for tripping another little girl.

"Why did she do that?" Nick asked.

"Because." CJ shrugged. "Patti isn’t very pretty, and she doesn’t have new uniforms. . ."

"Good grief! Is that what you're learning in school?" Nick sighed.

"I didn't do anything!" CJ protested.

"C, you know that not everyone has famous parents like you and Jane and not everyone has a lot of money." Nick said.

"I know, but she wears these ugly glasses. . ."

"Well, I have to wear glasses." Nick said.

"I know, but. . ."

"No buts, I don't believe this." Nick sighed heavily.

"What happened after she fell down?" Lexie asked.

"She started crying." CJ said quietly, feeling the guilt of her father's admonishment.

"Did anyone help her?"

"Someone did, one of the other girls. . ." CJ mumbled.

"Perhaps next time, you can be the one to help her." Lexie chuckled.

"But I don't want the other kids laughing at me too." CJ groaned.

"Sometimes it's hard to do the right thing, but it still has to be done. Like when your father fought with the unions. It wasn't easy, but he felt it had to be done." Lexie said.

"Okay." CJ sighed.

"Besides that, how did that spelling test go?" Lexie asked.

Nick fell silent as the girls talked about CJ's day. CJ asked Lexie if she'd be sleeping in the bed tonight, and she said yes. CJ said she wanted to sleep with them both.

It was a beautiful evening, and the girls took time to finish CJ's homework, play outside and then finally begin to head off to bed. Nick complained his head hurt, took some more painkillers, and went to bed right after dinner. Quietly, CJ and Lexie joined him after he had fallen asleep. CJ made Lexie sleep in the middle. CJ watched as Lexie cuddled up to Nick's arm and laid her head on his shoulder. He snorted for a moment, but drifted right off again. CJ snuggled up behind Lexie, her cold toes against Lexie's legs.

Nick couldn't resist taking Lexie in his arms as he slowly woke the next day. He pretended he was asleep as he held her close. They only had these few days left until he had to leave, and he didn't want to spend them like this. He wanted to make love to her each morning and night before he had to leave. This morning though, CJ was still in bed with them. Today wasn't looking too hopeful either. AJ and Alex would be flying in.

The alarm went off, and CJ was the first one out of bed and into the bathroom. Lexie struggled a moment to get out of his arms, but he held on tighter and whispered in her hair.

"I love you."

"I love you, too." She said back to him.

"Have Cook take CJ to school this morning." He said.

"No, I promised I would." She said.

"Come straight home?" he asked.

"I will." She agreed, and he finally let go of her. She got out of bed and went into the bathroom after CJ without even looking at him.

Lexie did as she promised. She drove to the school and then right back home. Nick had gotten up and showered, but was waiting in bed for her. He asked her to come closer and he noticed how she hesitated. Once in his reach, he gently pulled her down into his arms. He kissed her, but felt her resistance. He bristled at it and let go of her. He sat up with his back to her as she lay across their bed.

"Nick?"

"I'm not going to force you." He muttered angrily. "Is this really how you want to spend our last days together? Fighting?"

"No." she said. Nick wasn't prepared for the break in her voice. It broke his heart and he looked back at her, watching the crystalline tears form in her eyes.

"I'm sorry."

"Oh, don't be sorry." He moaned, putting his head in his hands. Why does she have to be so damn stubborn! “I don't understand why you're so upset about this any way? You didn't want Chris back either."

He felt her get off the bed. She walked across the room, opened something and then another something hit him in the back. He snapped his head up and looked behind him. He found her mother's pearls snaked in a pile behind him. He gently picked them up.

"I want CJ to know her mother." Lexie said. She sounded bitter and frustrated. "Because someday she's going to wear those pearls and have the same feelings I did. Would Mom be proud? Would she be happy for me? Would she understand? How can I make you understand?"

The smooth pearls slid over his fingers, and he bent his head over them.

"I understand, Lexie. I've had the same thoughts about my own mother, and she's not even dead." He said quietly.

"I can't ask for more than you listen to me and try to understand. Nick, I don't want you to do anything you're not comfortable with, but I need to know that you’re not going to be hasty about this." Lexie said, coming to sit on the bed next to him. "I know you love CJ. I know you love me. If you make the wrong decision now, Nick, there may be no going back. Once Christine is gone, there are no more second chances.

Nick was silent as he looked up at her and searched her eyes. Must be Amanda, because AJ was never this smart. He nodded in silent agreement.

"I'll think about it.

"Oh, thank you, Nick. God, that's all I want." She groaned, relieved. For now.

The love they made that morning was bittersweet; so much to say and so many ways to say it, but still no resolution. Nick loved Lexie and she loved him, but there wasn’t anything more they could say to each other at this point.

They stood outside on the front step as the van with tinted windows carrying AJ and Alex pulled up to the house. The door swung open to reveal Alex and AJ in the back. Alex squealed when he saw Nick lean in. He threw his hands up and away from the buckles that AJ was trying to undo. Alex scrambled out of his seat, crawled over AJ, and launched himself into Nick’s waiting hands.

"Uncle Nick!" he laughed wickedly as Nick swung him up onto his shoulders. He took hold of Nick’s tail, but didn’t pull too hard because he and Nick had done this many times before.

After spotting Lexie, he instantly wanted down and leaned until he fell into her waiting hands. He hugged her tightly around the neck until she started choking and laughing at the same time.

AJ stepped forward as the driver began to unload their luggage. He reached to take both Alex and Lexie into his arms.

"How’s my baby girl?" he asked softly, his dark eyes flooding with his love.

"I’m fine, Dad." She blushed. He kissed her suddenly warm cheek and then turned to Nick.

"This big lug taking care of you?!" he joked, punching Nick in the arm. Nick took a playful swipe at him, and they tussled a bit in the front yard.

Lexie instructed the driver to take their bags inside, and they all gathered on the veranda as Cook finished up with the details. Alex peered out between the columns at the play yard and then turned to AJ.

"Can I go play there?" He asked pointing.

"No, not yet." AJ smiled as he settled into a seat.

"Where’s CJ?" he asked without moving from where he was.

"CJ’s still at school. She’ll be home soon." Lexie said.

"When is soon?"

"After your nap." AJ said.

"I’m not tired!" Alex protested.

"You didn’t sleep at all on the plane. You need to go take a nap. C’mon, let’s go lay down." AJ said, getting to his feet. Alex screaming at the top of his lungs in protest heralded AJ’s efforts. He wasn’t happy with the idea of a nap, and he was pretty much going to let the whole neighborhood know.

Nick and Lexie laughed in sympathy as AJ headed upstairs. Nick watched them disappear into the house and then reached across the table and took Lexie’s hand.

"I love you, baby." He said softly.

"I love you too." She smiled just as softly. She always loved the gentle part of him that needed reassurance. Amidst the turmoil of the last couple days, they both needed some.

Nick and AJ went to pick up CJ at school. Lexie was left to finish up some email correspondences with Karen and Nikki at the fan club. The phone rang, and she absently reached to pick it up.

"Carter residence."

"Are all the Carters in their places with bright shiny faces?" Brian teased her.

"Well, no, I’m the only one." She laughed.

"The As make it there okay?"

"Yep. AJ and Nick went to pick up CJ and Alex is still sleeping."

"Hey, kiddo, I got some bad news about Nick’s old Tampa house. It slid into the ocean a couple years ago during a hurricane."

"Oh, no." she groaned.

"Yeah. We had some good times there, but it’s gone." Brian said. "I’m going to email you the real estate info I got from a lister. You still looking into Tampa and not Orlando?"

"I don’t know, honestly. I’d like a place with an ocean view, and I know Nick would, too. I also want to be close to my parents."

"Orlando’s only about an hour away."

"True, but I need a pool house and a guest house. . ."

"You guys could just build something."

"I don’t have that kind of time."

"Lexie? What’s going on?" Brian asked. Lexie suddenly realized she almost let her plan slip.

"Nothing. It’s just great having one here that I’d like one in Tampa as well. It’s great when Nick is gone and the girls come over." She lied.

"Okay." Brian’s tone told Lexie that he believed her.

"Want me to tell them you called?"

"Sure, but I’m just going to see them Monday."

"That’s right. Okay."

"Love you, kiddo. Take care."

"You too! Give my best to the girls."

Brian and Lexie finished up their goodbyes as CJ came tearing into the room. She hugged Lexie, said ‘hi’, then ran out of the room to go upstairs and change into play clothes. Nick and AJ were laughing as they came into the den.

"Think she’s happy to be home?" Lexie laughed, getting to her feet. She dutifully kissed them both on the cheek.

"I’d say." AJ laughed.

"Oh, Brian just called."

"What did he want?" Nick asked.

"Wanted to make sure AJ and Alex got here okay and to say he’d see you guys on Monday." She shrugged.

"I can’t believe you guys are going to use him on this album." Nick sighed.

"Just for backup vocals on a few tunes. We might not even use those songs. We’re just trying stuff out." AJ said. "Relax, Nick. It’s not going to be a Backstreet reunion."

"It’s been a couple years, you just need to try out all different kinds of material." Lexie said.

"I know, and you don’t want me wearing a suit on the cover." He sighed.

"Please, God, anything but another suit." She groaned playfully.

"I think you need a haircut, too." AJ added.

"I am not cutting the hair." Nick said firmly.

Lexie threw up her hands to AJ and headed out the door. AJ began to follow her out as they heard CJ calling for help with Alex.

"I’m not. I mean it!" he protested as they left the room.

Nick and AJ took the children outside onto the play yard for the rest of the afternoon. Lexie sat on the deck talking to Jill on the phone and watching them play.

"So, have you guys decided what to do about Christine?" she asked.

"No. We’ve argued about it, but that’s it. Sabrina hasn’t heard from her, has she?"

"No. Lexie, what did Christine say to you? What does she want?"

"I don’t know if I should say yet. I told Nick, and he hasn’t settled on anything. I don’t want to rock the boat with him right now. AJ and Alex are here."

"It’s that bad?"

"Yes, it’s that bad." Lexie sighed. "But I’m sure it’ll work out."

"For your sake and happiness, I hope so." Jill said gently. "So, onto a happier note. You guys got plans for Friday?"

"No. We were going to take them out to dinner at some point." Lexie said.

"Aaron and I were thinking it would be great to take the kids to Disney."

"Really? Oh, that sounds great, but can we really get Aaron Carter, Nick Carter, and AJ McLean in the same public place without causing a riot?"

"Well, we could do it without them. Aaron is itching to get over there and give his input on Nick’s new album. Maybe I could get Angel to come too."

"Wait a second. You’re going to take a day off?" Lexie laughed.

"It’s been known to happen."

"Jillian Carter, are you pregnant already?!" Lexie demanded.

"No, no, not yet!" she laughed. "Not for a lack of trying, that’s for sure."

"You guys still taking most of March off?"

"Yes. We’ve got it narrowed down to Fuji, Monaco, or Italy."

"What will you do without Jane around?"

"Oh, we’ll have her with us for part of the trip. Angel has agreed to fly and pick her up where ever we end up."

"Sounds like you guys are on your way, then."

"The question is, what will you do without Nick around?"

"I’ll survive." Lexie sighed.

"You guys haven’t been apart in a long time."

"I know, I know, but we’ll be fine. CJ needs to stay in school, and I’ve got that job with Gina."

"But you won’t have Nick."

The way things were going, it might be a relief. Lexie thought. Pangs of guilt filled her for a moment.

"Lex, you okay?" Jill softly asked.

"Yeah, I’m fine. I’ll tell the guys about your plans." She said suddenly.

"Okay. Give me a call later."

"I will. See ya, Jill."

"Yeah, see ya."

After dinner, AJ and Nick put the kids to bed and joined Lexie for drinks in the living room. AJ watched as they sat at opposite ends of the couch and barely looked at each other.

"Jill called. She wants to take the kids to Disney on Friday." Lexie said.

"I don’t think we can arrange that kind of security by then." Nick said.

"No, just me and her, the kids, and maybe Angel." Lexie said. "Aaron wants to drop by and work with you guys."

"Sounds like fun." AJ said.

"What do you think?" Lexie asked Nick.

"Sure. It’s fine." He said distractedly.

"Okay. I’ll call Jill and let her know." Lexie said, getting up and heading into the den.

"What’s going on with you two?" AJ asked once Lexie was out of earshot.

"Nothing." Nick sighed, sitting back into the sofa.

"Bullshit." AJ snapped.

"Look, we’re just having a little disagreement. It’s nothing." Nick said. "She’ll get over it."

"Her? You’re the one pissed off right now."

"No. I’m fine." Nick said. "Just forget it okay? I’ve got a headache. I think I’m gonna turn in early."

AJ watched as Nick got to his feet and lumbered painfully out of the room toward the upstairs bedrooms. Lexie came in about 10 minutes later stopping dead in her tracks.

"Where’s Nick?" she asked.

"He said he had a headache and went to bed."

"Yeah, probably his sinuses again." She nodded. "Jill said she’d make all the arrangements for the kids on Friday."

"I hope you guys have fun." AJ said quietly.

"What’s wrong?" Lexie said, coming around to sit across from him.

He leaned his head on his knuckles as his elbow was propped on the arm of the chair. He looked at her intently.

"AJ?"

"What’s wrong? You guys okay? He giving you any problems?"

"Who? Nick? No, everything is fine." She smiled nervously.

"You have some kind of disagreement?"

"You could say that." Lexie said quietly.

"Was it about me? You guys don’t have to put us up, you know."

"Oh, no! AJ, you can stay here, you know that’s not a problem. It’s over something he and I have been discussing for the last couple of days."

"Is that why you made me wait until today to come out?"

"Yes."

"Is it serious?"

"Yes." Lexie admitted quietly. "But it’s going to be okay. I’ll work it out." Lexie looked up and saw the disbelief in his eyes. She shook her head ‘no’ as she spoke. "Don’t, Dad, be fair to him. I know you didn’t want this, but it’s going to be alright."

"I don’t want you to get hurt." AJ said, leaning forward and cupping her chin. "I love you, baby girl."

"I love you, too." She swallowed.

"You want to talk about it?" AJ asked, but Lexie already had with her. . .Howie.

"No. We just have to resolve it ourselves." Lexie smiled softly. "That’s what being married is about, isn’t it?"

"It doesn’t matter. If you ever need me, you know you can call me, don’t you? Day or night."

"Of course." She said with a nod, but tears began to well in her eyes.

"He has hurt you." AJ declared.

"NO, no!" she said, throwing her arms around his neck and landing in his lap. "I just miss you, Daddy. I just miss you so much."

"I miss you, too, baby." He said, holding her close in his arms.

AJ looked up and saw some movement by the doorway. He focused on it and realized it was Nick. He saw him turn and leave them alone again. He had no idea what was going on, but he knew if Nick Carter was hurting his daughter there would be hell to pay.

Lexie entered the dark bedroom to hear Nick’s heavy breathing. She went to the bedside, sat down, and put her hand on his forehead. He woke and in the dim light, she could see his eyes open.

"You okay?" she asked softly.

"It’s just my head. Too much up and down probably." He mumbled.

"You want a hot pack to drain your sinuses?"

"That would be nice." He yawned.

Lexie got up and changed for bed, then headed towards the bathroom to run a wash cloth under warm water for him. She wrung it out and carried it back to lay over his eyes and nose.

He reached up and took her hand.

"Baby, what did you tell him?"

"Tell who?" she asked, startled.

"AJ. What did you tell AJ?"

"Nothing." She said. "I didn’t tell AJ anything."

"I don’t want it getting out that Christine is trying to make contact with us."

"I didn’t tell AJ anything." She said, getting up to move to her side of the bed. She had told Howie, but she didn’t tell AJ a thing.

"Or anyone else." He said as she lifted the covers.

"I won’t say a thing until we settle this." Lexie said, making a point to let him know that the discussion was not closed, and that she still expected him to talk about it.

"Thank you, Lexie." He sighed.

Lexie closed her eyes and snuggled up to his arm. She only hoped he would be thanking her later once he found out what she was doing.

Thursday moved quietly for them. Lexie spent the day reading and dealing with the fan club as AJ and Nick worked in the basement studio. Alex eagerly split his time between the men, Cook, and Lexie. Lexie went to town to have lunch, but she used it as an excuse to check in with her private detective. He didn't have anything yet. She spoke by phone to a few Florida real estate agents and did eventually eat with Gina to discuss starting work on Monday. The evening was warm, and dinner with the kids and then playing in the backyard capped it off for all of them.

The next morning, they surprised the kids with the trip to Disney. Lexie left with Alex and CJ to meet up at Aaron's house. Jill, Jane, and Angel were waiting excitedly for them. Aaron had arranged two bodyguards to follow them discreetly, but they were otherwise free to roam about the entire campus.

For hours, Lexie forgot all about Christine. She forgot all about AJ and Howie and Nick and the lot of them. She laughed until she cried, she screamed as she rode the roller coasters, and ate until she thought she would be sick. She didn't really remember who she was until she saw her name flash at her from a credit card. For a moment, time stood still and she wondered how many more Disney-like days they would have before it all changed forever.

Nick could only marvel at the change. She was smiling and laughing as they returned that night. She was affectionate all evening and right up to the time they went to bed. She showered, came to bed undressed, and pulled him into her arms.

"How's your head been?"

"Fine, just fine." He smiled, kissing her. "Damn, you're beautiful."

"Make love to me, Nick." she groaned against his lips.

He stopped for a moment, brushing the hair from her face.

"Baby, we need to talk before I go. . ." he began.

"No, Nick, not now." She said, laying her fingers on his lips. "Please not now."

Her lips and hands sought him, bringing him to untold pleasures. She continued to beg him until he complied. Her need and passion rose until he felt he could no longer contain it. She desperately clung to him, and he filled her again and again until he was spent.

She woke him a few hours later and made the same request again. He loved her again, until he was spent once more. Her whispered claims of love and desire tore at him. He never wanted to leave her, and he wasn't sure how he would get through these next weeks.

"Baby, I'm so sorry. I don't want to go." He whispered when he thought she had fallen back asleep.

"Don't be." She whispered back, startling him. "Just come back to me. Always."

"I will. I promise." He whispered back, his voice breaking against his words. "Always."

Saturday was spent at AJ's new house getting everything arranged. A part of Lexie thought is it was funny, considering she was going to try and convince Nick to move back east. Each one of them roamed through the empty house as AJ chatted with a designer. Nick snuck up on her, slipping his arms around her waist and resting his head on her shoulder. She closed her eyes and breathed him in. They remained quiet as the kids played, and they could hear AJ's voice in the distance.

"I made plans for tonight." He said softly.

"You did?" she smiled.

"I asked AJ to keep the kids at our house. We aren't going to be there."

"We aren't?" she giggled.

"Nope." He giggled, too.

"What are you planning, Nickolas Carter?" she asked.

"An evening alone. It'll be our only chance before I go." He said softly. She closed her eyes and held on tighter to his arms. He tightened his grip as well. "We still need to talk. About everything."

She nodded in agreement.

"Not right now." She whispered.

"No, not now." He agreed.

"Lexie, baby, you've got to help me." AJ moaned as he walked toward them with swatches. "What color for the couch? Oh, Rebecca Morgan, this is my daughter, Lexie, and her husband, Nick."

"Nice to meet you." Lexie said, shaking the young woman's hand.

"You, too."

"Nice to meet you." Nick said, shaking her hand next.

"I'm a big fan, Mr. Carter. . ." she gushed, grasping on to his hand.

"Uh..thank you." He blushed as she pumped his hand and then let go.

"Yeah, yeah, enough about him. My couch?" AJ sighed. The swatches flopped about from his hands.

"The walls?" Lexie asked.

"This green. . ." He began.

"Green? You're letting him paint them green?" Lexie laughed.

"Well, Mr. McLean. . ."

"Can't coordinate colors if his life depended on it. And it has a few times." Lexie smiled. She began to pluck swatches out of his hands. "Go with this one for the walls, that for the couch, and that for the floor rugs. If the walls are green in this house, I won't come over." She laid out the swatches in the designer's hands.

"That's nice." AJ hummed, looking at the spread.

"And, honey? Get him some texture." Lexie teased. "In the couch." She finished, tapping the fabric swatch.

"Okay, that's done. Let's do the bedrooms." AJ said marching off with his little designer in tow.

"You did that pretty well."

"I've studied texture and color for years. I should be good." Lexie laughed. "Green. He was going with green."

"Hey, all my walls are white." Nick shrugged.

"Can't go wrong with it. Goes with everything." She laughed. "Speaking of walls."

"Yes?" Nick asked.

"Have you thought much more about moving to Orlando?" she asked quietly.

"Oh yeah. I still think it's a great idea." He nodded.

"How about Tampa?"

"It's closer to the ocean." He chuckled with a rise of his eyebrows.

"Would you mind if I start looking at places? I mean, just looking."

"Sure, honey, no problem. I was thinking we could build something. . ."

"That's true. Or we might find one we actually like." She smiled.

"Okay. Start looking around, let me know if you find anything."

"Thanks, baby." She said, slipping her arms around his neck. He gave her a quick kiss and stopped to look down at her. "What?"

"Did you hear what AJ said?"

"About what?"

"'My daughter, Lexie, and her husband, Nick'."

"Yeah, so?"

"I can always count on these guys to just be 'Nick'." He smiled.

Lexie was laughing as CJ herded Alex back into the house from the deck.

"Where's Uncle AJ?" she asked.

"He's up in one of the bedrooms." Nick said.

"You wait here!" she told Alex as she went racing down the hall to the staircase.

Lexie, Nick, and Alex all met half way and sat down on the ledge into the sunken living room. He slipped between Nick's knees and began climbing up on his lap. Nick lifted him up and sat him down to straddle his legs. Alex reached up and pulled Nick's tail to the front and began running his fingers through it.

"Uncle Nick?"

"Yeah, Alex?"

"Why won't CJ marry me?" he asked. Nick and Lexie could barely contain their laughter.

"Well, guy, she's kinda young to get married. So are you." Nick smirked.

"Will you marry me, Lexie?" Alex asked, leaning over into her lap.

"No baby, I'm already married to Nick." She smiled, reaching over to touch his dark head. Alex was quiet as he threaded Nick's hair through his fingers. He seemed to be thinking about the answers.

"I love CJ. She's gonna marry me." He said quietly.

Nick laughed and pulled Alex up into a hug. He looked over at Lexie with tears of laughter in his eyes.

"I thought I'd have more time before I had to start beating them off." Nick laughed.

"He's AJ's son." Lexie smirked.

"Daddy! Lexie!" CJ yelled as she came running back toward them. "I saw Uncle AJ kissing that girl."

Nick lost all control and rolled on the floor laughing. Lexie laughed too, as the embarrassed couple came into view. Ms. Morgan and AJ said quick goodbyes, and she left discreetly out the back door.

AJ was six different colors of red as he came closer, and Lexie realized it was mostly lipstick. She and Nick were still laughing as Lexie got to her feet and went to AJ, running her thumb over his mouth to show him. He began to laugh himself and gave a cute little shrug as Nick continued to roll back and forth out of control.

"OH GOD!" Nick groaned, stumbling to get to his feet with Alex in his arms. He put Alex down and laughed his way toward them. "I gotta piss."

Lexie covered her mouth to keep from squealing, especially when Nick high-fived AJ on this way to the bathroom. Something in the sparkle of AJ's eye told her that maybe, just maybe, everything was going to be all right.

"Where, where, where?" Lexie pestered Nick as they drive home. "Where are you taking me?!"

"I know!" CJ chimed in.

"You little rat fink, and you didn't tell me?!" Lexie teased her.

"She doesn't know!" Nick laughed.

"We'll find out tomorrow when they get home." AJ said as they rode home.

"What are we gonna be doing?" CJ asked AJ.

"We could watch some movies. . ."

"That's boring, Uncle AJ!" she moaned.

Nick looked in his rearview mirror and watched AJ pull his daughter close and whisper something in her ear. Her eyes lit up, and they shared a knowing smile between them. He had to smile himself, loving and accepting the joy of life AJ gave them.

"Where?!" Lexie begged, pulling on his arm. He laughed.

"Just hold your horses. You'll find out soon enough. Cook should have our bags packed by the time we get there." He said, looking at this watch before pulling into the community.

Cook's husband was putting the bags into a red Audi convertible as they pulled into the garage. There was a quick exchange of hugs and thanks before Nick and Lexie turned around and left again in the convertible.

"Please tell me where we're going?" Lexie pleaded.

Nick kept that smug look on his face and refused to tell her. He drove out of the city and began a trek down the coast line. He pulled up to a huge old historical hotel on a bluff, overlooking the ocean. Valets came, opened the doors, and took care of their bags. Nick came around the car, took her hand, and they ran up the front marble stairs into the grand lobby of the hotel.

"Mr. Carter. How nice to see you." The clerk at the front desk said.

"Hi. Is the suite ready?"

"Of course. If you'll sign in, here are your keys." She smiled, sliding the papers across the marble counter, and he scrawled his familiar signature on it. He snatched up the keys and took her hand again, dragging her to the elevator.

The wrought iron decorated doors of the lift opened up and they stepped in together with a few other hotel guests. In the back of the elevator, Lexie couldn't help but see how the others noticed him. As always, he acted as though he was oblivious to it. He pulled her into his arms and buried his face into her hair.

"You're going to love this." He whispered.

One by one, each guest got off until they were the only ones left.. He kissed her deeply and passionately until the doors opened one last time to the door of the suite. They stepped forward, he slipped the card key into the lock, and it opened effortlessly.

Before them in complete, unabashed splendor and expense was the Presidential Suite. Lexie gaped at the crystal chandeliers, the rich wood furnishings, the plush carpet under her feet, and the scented air that flowed over her.

"Oh my god. . ." she gasped.

In all their years together, Nick had never done this. They had had some nice hotel suites, but nothing like this. He had never shown her his money like this, and she wasn't prepared for it. He closed the door and stood behind her, wrapping his arms around her.

"It's all for you."

"Nick, you shouldn't have. . ."

"Oh, yes, I should have. I should have much sooner." He smiled. He stepped around her and held out his hand. "Come with me."

Nick took her to spacious bedroom as the afternoon sun burned brightly though the huge glass doors to the deck.

"Come see the view." He said, leading her there.

"It's incredible." She sighed.

They could see for miles up the coastline. Below them, white waves gently crashed into the rocky shore of the bluff on which the hotel stood. Her appreciation of the view was cut short by the feel of his hands untying her ponytail and running his finger through her hair. She stood before the sea as he undressed her, kissed her, and began to make love to her.

They turned back to the bed, and she did the same for him. She untied his hair, pulled away his clothing, and slipped onto the bed beside him, tasting his body and setting him ablaze.

He rolled her to her back and slipped effortlessly between her legs. She clawed at his back as he stroked her, whispering and then shouting his love for her. She hung on to him andbegan to miss him already. His mouth took hers as he came, and she bucked up to hold him to her, to declare her own love for him. He quieted in her arms and after a long while, kissed her forehead.

"You're incredible." He smiled down at her.

"Me?" she chuckled.

"Yes, you, Lexie."

"My name sounds so beautiful when you say it." She smiled.

"It is as beautiful as the woman it belongs to." He smiled back. "We need to get up, though. The evening is not over."

"It's not? There's more?" she beamed.

"Where else would I take a well-loved woman, but out for a beautiful meal?" he teased.

"Out? We're going out? Did Cook pack any thing. . ." she began, sitting up.

"No. I bought you something."

"Nick, how many little short black dresses can one woman own?" she joked.

"No, no. This is different. Let's go shower, and I'll show you." He smiled, getting off the bed. They headed to the master bath together when Nick suddenly stopped and put a finger on her nose. "Oh!" he said suddenly. "I bought panties, too. You will wear them."

She put up her right hand. "I swear."

They showered together and played around before Lexie settled down to do her make up. Piece by piece, Nick gave Lexie her clothing. Matching panties and strapless bra, and navy silk thigh high stockings she pulled elegantly up each leg.

"Okay, what's next?" she said, clapping her hands.

"This, you're going to like." He smiled, going to the closet. She heard him unzip a garment bag and bring her the most incredible gown she had ever seen.

"Oh, my." She began, getting slowly to her feet. The navy blue dress was layered in sheer silk. He helped her step into the strapless gown that nicely emphasized her waist and ample breasts. The skirt flowed from the fitted bodice into a pool of silk down her legs.

"Nick, it's incredible." she said, her hands smoothed the silk down as she watched it pool at her feet.

"Wait!" he laughed. He ran back to the closet and brought her matching shoes, kneeling in front of her to have her step into them. He got up and brought back a hairbrush and brushed her dark hair down her back until he was happy with it. She turned back for him.

"Not quite." He sighed.

"What's missing?"

"These." He said, turning to go to his luggage. He unzipped the largest bag and pulled out a felt box. He carried it to her and opened its hinged lid to show her the contents. Inside were matching teardrop diamond earrings and a huge diamond pendant that was beyond her comprehension. "I got them in Hawaii."

Her hand reached out to touch them, then she looked up into his face.

"They're for you."

He chuckled at her stunned expression. Nick pulled the necklace out of the box and turned her so he could loop it over her head and fasten the latch. She lifted her hair, then lowered it again and peered into the mirror to see her reflection.

"Can you get the earrings yourself?" he said, handing her the box. "Do you like them?"

Lexie was completely speechless as she pulled the earrings from their box and put one, then the other in. She could only nod her head in reply. Words were beyond what she was feeling.

"I'm going to go finished getting dressed, not that anyone is going to notice me in my underwear once they see you." He joked.

Lexie stood at the mirror, and the next time she saw Nick, he was dressed to the hilt in a tuxedo. His hair was pulled back, his face freshly shaved and he was pulling on his tux jacket over the printed vest.

"These are for you, too." He smiled, handing her the gloves that went with the dress. "Kinda old fashioned, but I liked them. Baby, are you okay?"

"I'm. . . I'm just so stunned, Nick." She choked as she pulled each glove on. "We usually just go surfing or something with CJ or. . ."

"I know, I know. I'm not very romantic, but I wanted tonight to be something we'd always remember." He said, brushing her hair back from her shoulder. "I haven't done enough for you, and you've given me everything."

He gently cupped her cheek and lifted her face to him. "You are my everything. You are stronger and more beautiful than any other woman I have ever known. You deserve so much more, and I'm going to make sure you get it. Always. Come on, now, or we'll be late for dinner."

Lexie's gloved hand slipped nicely into Nick's as he led her from the suite. They arrived downstairs in time for dinner in the grand ballroom, where dinner was served amidst a timeless elegance Lexie had never experienced.

He ordered the wine and proceeded to read from the menu.

"Anything look good to you?" he asked looking up. Her eyes were solely on him. "On the menu?"

She smiled and blushed prettily, lowering her eyes to the menu.

"The veal sounds nice." She sighed.

The waiter silently approached, and Nick ordered for both of them. They held hands across the table as they watched other couples dance.

"How did you ever find this place?" she asked him. He only smiled and shrugged.

Silently, he was thanking Karen, his fan club president, to the hilt. He prayed she would keep her word and never tell. She had chosen several gowns for Nick to pick from and gladly picked up all the accessories once he decided. He was grateful to all the women in his life, but none so much as the one across from him.

"Will we. . .?" she began, looking across at him. He turned his full attention toward her.

"Dance? Yes, would you like to right now?"

"Can we?" she asked softly.

"Of course." He smiled, taking her hand and helping her to her feet. He led her past several tables to swing her gently into his arms.

They easily found their rhythm to orchestra the music as they did with all of the music in their lives. She moved so close into his arms, he was sure they would melt into one.

It was just the one dance, then they returned to their table as the food arrived. The meat melted in Lexie's mouth, and the wine made her heady. She laughed gently, touched him often, and let her mind slip into this fantasy he had created. When the meal was complete, the plates were taken and he danced with her for several songs before they retreated once more to their table for dessert.

Nick wiped the last of his cheesecake from his lips and excused himself for a moment. Lexie watched him go, then turned to watch the couples dancing as she waited for his return. Her eyes scanned the door leaving the ballroom several times looking for him, and each time her eyes would go back to the couples on the dance floor. She wanted to dance the rest of the night away in his arms as though nothing else mattered.

"Mrs. Carter?" a man's voice interrupted her thoughts. She turned to him, and he asked again. "Mrs. Carter? Lexie Dorough-Carter?"

"Yes?" she smiled.

"Can I ask you some questions about the pending trial? Did you realize that the defendant, 28-year-old Samantha Kramer, is a mother herself who lost one child? How do you feel about that? What about the fact that if she goes to jail, you'll be responsible? Mrs. Carter, do you realize that when your husband went non-union that he put thousands of workers out of work, and their families went hungry?"

The man's face was a blur, followed by another as Nick shoved him away from Lexie.

"What the hell are you doing?" Nick demanded. "Get out of here! Where is security? Didn't I tell you to make sure this didn't happen?"

Several of the waiters, assisted by hotel security and a few other guests, removed the man and the dozen or so photographers with him. Nick pulled Lexie to her feet and hid her behind him. The photo everyone would see the next morning was of Nick, with Lexie hiding her face in his back, and the flash that bounced off of their wedding bands glaring back into the cameras.

Nick and Lexie raced from the ballroom, across the filled lobby, and into the elevator with other guests from dinner. Lexie collapsed into tears in Nick's arms, not caring who could see her. He held her close in the shelter of his arms, soothing her the best he could. He took her inside the suite, closing the door firmly behind them.

Before him stood his bejeweled and silk-wrapped beautiful young wife, who was crying so hard she couldn't even speak. How could this happen? How? She slipped from his arms and went into the bathroom to remove her jewels. He could still hear her sniffle.

"I'm sorry." He said. It was all he could think to say as he leaned against the doorjamb into the bathroom.

"It's not your fault." She said, running warm water. She cupped the water in her hands and rinsed her face. She buried her face into the thick hotel towels, dried her skin and looked at him from the mirror.

"I wanted tonight to be so special." He sighed heavily, lowering his face.

She went to him and lifted his chin. "Can I have one more dance in my dress?"

The hotel piped music from the ballroom into each suite, and Nick turned it up for her. She slipped quietly into his arms and rested her head on his shoulder. They remained that way for three more songs before he felt a tug on the front of his vest and the buttons came undone under her gentle touch.

"I'm not that kind of a guy, you know." He teased quietly. She arched a fine eyebrow at him.

"You're not? Hmmm, that'll definitely put a cramp into the rest of my plans." She smirked.

"I can't just let anyone soil my reputation." He grinned as she gently tugged him toward the bedroom.

"Wouldn't you let me?"

"I don't know." He mused.

"What if I said I'd respect you in the morning?"

"I still don't know." He said, playing hard to get.

"What if I get you drunk first?" she asked, stepping into the bedroom, the moonlight from the night washing over her.

"I think I'm already drunk." He sighed, leaning in the doorway.

"What if I promise to leave my shoes on?" she teased him from across the room.

"Damn." He muttered.

"These stockings are real silk." She smiled, lifting her skirt to show him.

"Where'd you get those?"

"Promise not to tell? My husband bought them for me." She giggled, reaching to unzip her dress.

"Your husband, huh? Jealous type?"

"Very much so." She said. Nick could hear the zipper come down in the dimness.

"Where is your husband?"

"He's on a business trip." She said, lowering the dress and stepping from it. She laid it easily on a chair by the foot of the bed.

"What do you want with me?" he asked, watching her crawl to the middle of the king-sized bed.

"I want you to come here." She said softly.

"I don't know, Mrs. Carter. I don't think this is right." He said, coming closer to the bed.

"Shhh, I won't tell him if you won't." she said huskily as he came closer. She turned on all fours and crawled back to him, rising up on her knees to loosen his tie and unbutton his shirt.

"You're very bad, Mrs. Carter."

"That's how Mr. Carter likes it." She said, looking up into Nick's eyes. She reached up and touched his face. "I love you, Nick."

"I love you, too, baby." He said, leaning in to kiss her.

Basking in the glow of their lovemaking, they snuggled in bed holding each other until Lexie decided to get up and raid the bar. The remnants of their late-night snacking were scattered around them on the bed. She stuffed one more truffle in his mouth and licked her own fingers.

"You really been thinking about Orlando?" he asked around his mouthful.

"Well, Tampa really. I can't live without some kind of water around." She said, her lips smacking from the rich chocolate.

"I think it'll be good." He nodded, talking around the confection melting in his mouth. "I used to own a couple houses out there."

"Can I tell you a secret?" she giggled.

"Sure." He giggled with her.

"I had Brian look for your old house, the first one you owned."

"Really? Is it for sale?"

"Nope. Fell into the ocean a couple years ago." She sighed. "I'm sorry."

"Me, too. Had some good times there." He sighed, too. "All the better to get another place now."

"Okay. I've got a couple agents looking."

"A couple, huh? When are you planning on moving?"

"Me? I thought summer would be good. I mean, CJ will be out of school."

"What about your school?"

"I can get my Master's anywhere." She shrugged.

"Are you going to go back to school?" he asked, watching her suddenly stop what she was doing and start thinking of her answer.

"No." she said, looking over at him. "I've been thinking if I like what I do for Gina, I might try to do it on my own."

"Estate appraising?"

"Yeah, but start my own auction house. G would come work for me eventually." She said.

"Really? I had no idea you were thinking about that." He said, surprised.

"Well, it just popped in there about two weeks ago. I like working on exhibits, too. I'm not dead sure." She shrugged. "Nick?"

"Yeah?" he asked. She pushed aside the wrappers and lay down on her stomach across from him.

"We've got to talk about Christine and CJ." She said gently.

"I know." He sighed, looking away.

"Have you been thinking?"

"Yes. I can't. . .I can't seem to resolve it."

"What's the problem?"

"I don't know." He shrugged.

"You won't lose CJ. I mean, you know that now." She said softly. "Nick, do you still want to know why she left?"

He was silent for the longest time, and then he rolled over to his back.

"I know I shouldn't care, but yes, I do want to know." He finally admitted. "I did everything I could to make her happy."

"Did you love her?"

"I thought I did. I didn't know what it meant until you, though." He said, sitting up on one elbow. "I thought I had done what was right. I mean, I didn't abandon her. I made sure she was comfortable. . ."

"Maybe she just went looking for something more?" Lexie offered.

"Why didn't she take CJ? I can understand her leaving me, but why CJ?" Nick asked, but Lexie could only shrug.

"Are you ready for CJ to meet Christine?"

"No." he sighed, lying on his back. "I'm sorry, Lexie, but I'm not ready yet."

"Yet? Is there a chance?"

Nick held his breath and then let it out loudly.

"Yeah, there's a chance." He quietly admitted.

"She doesn't have a lot of time left."

"I just need a little more, Lex, I can't do this right now."

"Okay." She agreed. "Just keep talking to me?"

"I will. I promise."

"Good." She agreed with a smile, cocking her head to look at him. He turned his head to face her.

"I talked to Aaron about the trial." He said. "He and Jill are both planning to be there for you. We're going to have to tell them what happened tonight."

"Jill isn't involved with the case. I'll call the prosecutor on Monday. I have his card around somewhere." She shrugged.

"You've been calm ever since we heard about it, and you got called."

"What's there to be worried about? Nick, I don't remember much. I have flashes of going over, and I know she was the one who pushed me." Lexie shrugged. "I barely remember the days that followed. I remember you singing to me in the hospital when Dad showed up. It's all one big blur. They have the fall on videotape and tons of other witnesses. Jill said they just want to get the 'victim's point of view', that's all."

"I can be there."

"No. I can handle this. Besides, Jillie and Aaron will be there." She smiled, leaning over to kiss his sweetened lips. "I doubt my horrible record company owning father would let you go."

"Howie? He's not horrible."

"Aw, you've never worked for him." She chuckled. "He's a slave driver."

"Howie? Sweet lovable, Howard? Little twerp I used to pick on him all the time." Nick laughed.

"That was before he held your career in his hands." She laughed with him.

"Naw, it's Kevin who's gonna bust my chops." Nick sighed, running a sticky hand over his head.

"Kevin? He's the sweetest guy." Lexie laughed at him. "I think you have them seriously confused."

"Me? I have known these guys since I was 13 years old. I know which is which." Nick laughed.

"OH!" she gasped suddenly.

"What?" he said, suddenly concerned.

"Know what I saw in the bar?" she teased, crawling out of bed.

"What?!" he smiled.

"Ice cream." She said, heading out of the bedroom.

"Really? Ice cream?"

"Not just any ice cream, Chocolate Chip Mint." She called out.

"Gee, I wonder how that got in there." He called back out at her.

"Nick Carter, did you do that for me, too?" she said, bringing the pint in with some spoons.

"I cannot tell a lie." He shrugged, sitting up.

They sat cross-legged on the bed, directly across from each other, and began to dig into the frozen pint of ice cream.

"You're gonna make me fat." He moaned as they ate.

"You're NOT fat! God, will you stop already?!" she groaned back.

"Look at this!" he complained, grabbing a small barely visible roll around his waist.

"Give me a break!" she complained back at him.

"I'm gonna be HUGE!" he said, throwing his arms open. The ice cream on his spoon slid off and hit the satin wallpaper behind the headboard of the bed.

"You're gonna owe them to clean that." She said, looking over at what he done.

He reached up and smeared the mess into the wall with his hand. She laughed as he showed her his hand and she pulled it to her and began to lick his fingers. A seductive moan rumbled through him. Amidst the wrappers, ice cream container, and spoons, he laid her out underneath him and loved her.

Nick woke slowly, rolling over and reaching for Lexie. He cracked his eyes against the morning sun to find her gone. He opened his eyes fully and sat up, wiping the sleep from them. The silk sheets slipped down his chest to his waist as he turned toward the other side of the room and spied her.

She was wrapped in the hotel’s plush robe, her legs peeking out at him and her dark hair falling nearly to the floor as she lay sleeping on the couch. No doubt she had woken at some time and moved there to watch him sleep. She had taken to doing that since they first heard of Christine coming back.

Quietly, he got out of bed and sat on the floor in front of her. He let the silky strands of her hair run through his fingers until he heard her raspy, "Morning."

"Morning, sweetheart." He smiled, leaning over to kiss the tip of her nose and listening to her giggle. "Will you marry me?" he asked.

"I already have." She chuckled, stretching to wake up.

"Oh, yeah. I just thought that was a dream." He smiled as she sat up.

"No, it was real. Last night, now that was a dream." She smiled down at him.

"You enjoyed yourself?" he asked.

"Immensely." She said.

"That’s some mighty high praise." He smirked, getting to his feet.

"I like to reward good behavior." She said, getting up and moving past him toward the bathroom. His laughter followed her into the shower.

Sabrina stretched and listened to each of the bones in her hands crack. They were still sore from all the work she had done last night. She threw back the covers, dislodging the cat from its spot and headed about her morning routine.

She went to the bathroom; pulled on a robe; headed to the kitchen; made toast, fruit, and tea; and headed out onto her deck, which was six stories above the city. She read the paper, aired out her toes in the morning sun, and then reached for the phone when it rang.

"Malta." She heard Jill say. "We’ve settled on going to Malta for our vacation."

"Italy is nice." She replied.

"Are you set for those interviews?"

"I’m flying out this afternoon to catch the woman in Phoenix and then that guy in St. Paul."

"You’re an angel for doing this. With both me and Tina gone, I’m worried you’ll have too much work."

"It’s no big deal. You’ll be back in a month, and she’ll be back after she’s beheaded all of their leaders, and it’ll be just fine." Sabrina chuckled.

"You’re next, I promise." Jill said.

"Yeah, I know." Sabrina sighed. It didn’t even matter really; she didn’t have much of a life to be torn from. Hell, her life was so boring that the orange tabby at her feet didn’t even have a name. He was and always would be 'the cat'.

The drive home was relaxed and delicious. They had packed and then had breakfast downstairs before heading out. She had her hair tied back in a scarf and his was braided down for the convertible ride home. They pulled up to the house right on time for lunch, which AJ had made and the kids were eating outside.

"Daddy! Lexie!" CJ said excitedly, running into the house once she saw them, hugging them both. "Where did you guys go? Was it romantic? Was it pretty? Did you take pictures?"

"Wait, wait, wait!" Nick laughed.

Lexie quickly took her hand and headed towards the bedroom, whispering in CJ’s ear. The last thing Nick heard was, "Really? Can I see them?"

"So, how’d it go?" AJ smiled, holding a peanut butter and jelly smeared Alex.

"Great. Well, not perfect, but it went well." Nick said, pinching Alex’s sticky nose.

"I heard what happened." AJ said.

"Yeah, come with me. I got to get the bags." Nick said, headed back out the front door.

"Are you coming back for the trial?" AJ asked as they climbed into the car with Alex and pulled into the garage. Nick turned off the car and turned in his seat to face AJ and Alex.

"I don’t know. I want to, but she and Aaron are trying to talk me out of it. Jill says it’s just some minor questioning, but what happened last night proves to me the issue isn’t minor." Nick sighed.

"I can talk to Howie for you."

"Naw, I can do that. We’ll see, I guess."

"Let’s go inside then." AJ smiled.

They got out of the car, and each took a couple bags. Nick let Alex carry a paper bag with a pastry from breakfast, which he began to eat on the way up the stairs. Once in their bedroom, Lexie showed them Nick’s presents and wrapped the gown to send out to be cleaned. AJ let out a low whistle when he saw the jewels, and that had satisfied Nick to no end.

Everyone headed downstairs, picking up the pastry Alex left on the carpet, and went out to the veranda for lunch. Lexie warmed up some leftovers for the grown ups. They were done eating and watching the kids play when the conversation about AJ’s new house began.

"So, how’s the decorating going?" Lexie asked, having spied all of the swatches in the kitchen.

"You mean how is the decorator going?" Nick chuckled.

"They are both quite fine, thank you very much." AJ cackled at him.

"Oh, you know, maybe we should tell him." Nick said suddenly, laying a hand on Lexie’s. "About the house and. . ."

"Oh, maybe we should." She said.

"What?"

"Okay, don’t be mad." Lexie warned.

"What?" AJ insisted.

"We’re going to be moving back to Orlando." Nick said.

"Or Tampa." Lexie added.

"What?! I just bought a house here." He groaned.

"I know, I know, and I hadn’t even realized that until Lexie started talking about decorating. . ." Nick began.

"You can still keep it, AJ." Lexie said.

"I only got it to be closer to you." He said gently.

"We’re not selling this place." Lexie said.

"We’re not?" Nick asked.

"No. We’re not." She said firmly. "Don’t be mad, AJ."

"I could never be mad at you." He sighed, rising to kiss her temple. "He’s a whole other story." He added, eyeing Nick. Nick spared him a simple, but forgiving, grimace.

Nick and Lexie told AJ that only Brian knew and not to say anything quite yet, but they were planning to be in Florida for the summer. They spent the rest of the afternoon with the children before their plane left at seven that evening. Lexie tried not to cling, but at small moments, her resolve would falter and her grip on his hand would tighten. She would stay too close to him or touch him for no apparent reason, other than to feel him under her touch. Cook had packed before she left for the weekend, so there was little they could do at this point except say goodbye.

The last chore for the day was to get CJ ready for school the next day. Nick spent the time to sit with her in her room and go over her homework and lay out her uniform.

"When are you going to be back?" she asked him as he sat next to her at her desk.

"I’ll be back for the weekend in a month."

"How long will you be staying in Orlando?"

"For a while. It’s hard to say for sure." He smiled, reaching out to touch her silky cheek.

"Are we going to visit you?"

"Yes, but we haven’t worked out all those details yet."

"How come I can’t go with you? I used to always go with you." She sighed.

"Well, Lexie and I decided that it was best to keep you in school this year."

"Before Lexie I used to go everywhere with you."

"No, because of Lexie, I can still do this. I was going to quit until you were older."

"You were?"

"You need to stay in school, have a normal life." He said. "It’s just one album, you know how it is."

"What about the tour? Are you going to tour?"

"I might, probably." He sighed.

"Are we going to go with you then?"

"I don’t know. You might not want to." He smiled. "You might just want to be with your friends instead of hanging out with your old dad."

"I don’t think so. I miss going on tour, this is boring sometimes." She said. "I have an idea, why don’t we move to Orlando? I mean, if Grandpa is doing your record, shouldn’t we be there? We’d be closer to him and Poppy and Alex and John and Tyler and Baby Caroline and Marta and Aria and Great Grandma Dorough and. . ."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Nick laughed. "What about Aunt Jill and Uncle Aaron, Jane, and your other Grandmother here?"

"They can come visit us." CJ shrugged.

"What about all your friends in school?" he asked.

"I can make new ones. I’ve done that all my life." She smiled. "Can we move to Orlando, can we?"

"Actually." He smiled with a sigh. "Lexie and I talked about that."

"Really?!" she said excitedly.

"Maybe you can help her look for a house? Maybe in Tampa?" he asked carefully.

"That’s great! I’d love to! I can’t wait to tell Jane!" CJ squealed with delight.

"Wait, wait, wait!" Nick called as she climbed off her chair and headed for the door.

"What, Dad?!" she said dramatically.

"I haven’t told them yet!"

"Don’t worry! I will!" She laughed at him.

"No, no, no!" he laughed, racing to scoop her up in his arms. "Let me tell them, okay?"

"When?" she asked as he set her down on her feet.

"Not now, but later, okay?" he smiled gently. "I don’t want anyone to panic or get hurt feelings, okay?"

"Okay." She sighed.

"I love you, baby." He grinned.

"I love you, too, Dad!" She smiled, throwing her arms around his neck.

The car pulled up promptly at 6 p.m. and waited for Nick and AJ. The driver loaded the car as Lexie followed him out with CJ. Nick came from the garage to meet her on the front step. CJ reached up to him, and he hoisted her into his arms, settling her on his hip.

"Checking on your babies?" Lexie teased him.

"Yeah, they are all tucked in." He chuckled, giving her a quick kiss. "Where is the terrible twosome?"

"Alex is taking his last potty break before we go." CJ smiled.

"How about you?" Nick asked her.

"I went." She said, with a roll of her eyes. "You don’t have to ask me that all the time, Dad. I’m not a baby."

"I know, that’s part of the problem." He said, bringing her closer so he could kiss her temple.

"They’re kissing." They suddenly heard Alex say. Nick laughed, and so did Lexie.

"When you find a pretty girl, you’ll kiss her, too." Nick said, tapping his little nose.

"I’m gonna kiss CJ." Alex said plainly.

"No you’re not!" CJ groaned.

"Hey, keep your son away from my daughter." Nick joked as Alex and AJ got in the limo.

"They all eventually succumb to the McLean charm, sooner or later." AJ joked as Nick, CJ, and Lexie followed him into the car.

"Not my daughter." Nick insisted.

"I think it’s fair. You got mine." AJ smirked with a wink, eliciting a loud groan from Lexie.

The ride to the airport was filled with bad jokes and puns, pushing away the enviable separation of all of them. It was getting harder by the minute as the airport got closer. Security let them out onto the tarmac, and they pulled up right next to AJ’s private plane.

AJ and Alex both kissed Lexie goodbye, and CJ went with them inside the plane, leaving Nick and her a few last moments together. They stood out in the bright L.A. sun, Nick taking Lexie’s face in his hands and kissing her one last time.

"I’m going to miss you." He whispered below the airport noise.

"I’ll miss you." She said, willing herself not to cry, but it was no use when he began.

"Stop it, or we’ll be a mess." She joked.

"I know, I know, but I can’t help myself." He sighed, pulling her into his arms.

"I love you."

"I love you." She whispered in his ear and he finally let her go.

"Mr. Carter?" They heard from the pilot. "I’m sorry, but we’ve just gotten clearance. We need to leave."

"Thank you, I’ll be right there." He nodded. Lexie reached down and handed him his carry on, keeping it between them.

"You’d better go." She choked.

"I’d better." He agreed, finally releasing her hand and turning to go. Nick helped CJ out of the plane, hugged and kissed her, then she ran to stand by Lexie. They waved as he boarded and remained there as they closed up the plane. Lexie blew a kiss to Alex and then climbed into the limo to get a distance away from the plane.

AJ watched as Nick sat heavily in the seat across from him. He and Alex were buckled in, and they waited for Nick to do the same. He did, smiling as Alex began to color in a book, then twisting back to watch Lexie and CJ pull away in the limo. His eyes followed it as they taxied out to the runway.

Nick’s eyes never left the field until they were off the ground, and then he buried his face in his hand, pretending to be rubbing his eyes. AJ knew Nick was covering what he was feeling. Once airborne, AJ released his belt and got to his feet. Alex was required to remain buckled and he knew that, but he was coloring to his heart’s content.

"I know it’s early, but you want a drink?" AJ asked.

"Yeah." Nick answered, finally looking up at him. Nick turned his attention to Alex as AJ went to the bar. "Hey, little man. Whatcha’ got there?"

"I’m coloring." Alex said. "See?" He flipped the book up and showed Nick.

"That’s pretty good." Nick smiled, reaching for the glass that AJ offered. AJ sat next to Alex with a glass of his own and ruffled his hair. A glass Nick knew had no alcohol.

"He’s a regular Picasso." AJ smiled. "What did you bring for the trip?"

"Depends what book Cook has read recently." Nick smiled, pulling his carry on close to him. "That’s what she usually packs."

Nick unzipped the bag and reached in absently, not really looking. His fingers wrapped around something soft and fuzzy and he pulled it out instantly. It was Fairy Bunny, and he burst out laughing.

"She sent you with a rabbit?" AJ chuckled. "Some housekeeper you got."

"Naw, Lexie did this." Nick chuckled, wiping the sudden surprised tears from his eyes.

"Got anything else in there?" AJ asked.

"Yeah, the girls gave me these pictures for my birthday." He said, pulling the frames out to show him.

"These are great." AJ said, going through them.

"Yeah. I had them commissioned last year, and they had them framed so I could take them with me." Nick smiled.

"CJ really looks like you." AJ smiled. "It’s really amazing how all you Carter kids look so much alike. I could be looking at BJ."

"Yeah, I know."

"Even Aaron’s kid has that look." AJ said with a nod, handing back the framed photos.

Nick shuffled a few things in and out of the bag, trying to get everything resituated. A white linen envelope fell out and floated down to the plane’s floor. AJ got up and handed it to him, watching Nick’s brow furrow. Nick put everything else aside and opened it up to read Lexie’s neatly penned words.

Dearest Nick,

Lexie

That first night was the hardest for Lexie. This was going to be their first real separation, and she knew there were plenty more to come, especially after he went on tour. He called her late that evening, saying that they had arrived safely, and that he was settled at AJ's house for the night. They wished each other goodnight and sweet dreams, hanging on every word and sound before they ended the call.

The morning was far more forgiving. It was a tight squeeze to get CJ up, dressed, and fed before school, and then get herself together to start work at the auction house on time. Cook sent them out the door with a laugh and a wave as Lexie grabbed the first set of keys, one of Nick's Porsches.

She drove CJ to school and dropped her off with a kiss, called Nick on the way to the auction house, and pulled in to the parking lot with five minutes to spare. In jeans and a tee shirt, she bounded up the stairs to the warehouse and found Gina’s small office.

Gina got her settled and introduced her as the historian/appraiser working on the Farmer estate to the crew that would be working for her. They wasted no time showing her the catalogue and throwing her into the work.

The work made the time away from home bearable. It kept her mind off of missing Nick, although Howie and AJ has less luck with Nick lamenting about missing Lexie. AJ was convinced he would kill Nick if he had to listen to him talk about missing Lexie and CJ one more time after a full week of whining. Sympathetic to Nick's plight, Howie offered to let him go home for the trial a couple of days early. Howie was surprised when Nick declined, saying that he and Lexie had talked and she wanted him to stay. Aaron had promised to set up security for Lexie and CJ, with Jill and him accompanying her to the trial.

So, three weeks into the separation, everyone fell into comfortable routines of emails and phone calls and work and school. Lexie relaxed around her co-workers, and they were relaxing around "Mrs. Nick Carter" as well. They took Gina's lead and treated her with respect as an individual, which she gratefully accepted.

At lunch one day, a tabloid fell across the table in front of Lexie as her crew lead walked past on her way to the soda machine.

"Here's another one for our dart board. Girl, I don't know how you handle that shit." Norma chuckled. Lexie looked from her lunch to stare at the headline.

Norma leaned over her as Lexie looked over the pictures of Nick with a young blonde hanging over him as they flipped through bins at a record store.

"Who's that?" Norma asked.

"That's Aria." Lexie said around the last mouthful of her sandwich.

"Your cousin again?"

"Yeah." She said, switching to eat a spoonful of yogurt. "They both like vintage record stores. I can't keep them out of them. It's kinda sad, actually."

"She sure is hanging on him."

"The Doroughs are touchy feely. The whole lot of them. See that guy? He's my cousin, Marshall. He works at the store and is Nick's other enabler for his record addiction." Lexie said, pointing a young man out.

"Dang, he's hanging on him too."

"Yup, a Dorough thing."

"I still don't know how you handle it. If someone was saying this shit about my husband, I'd be insane." The older woman sighed.

"I've gotten tons of this kinda crap since I was a kid. Besides, I know my husband loves me." Lexie smiled, getting to her feet. "I mean, think about it, my father is one Backstreet Boy, I was raised by another Backstreet Boy, and then I married one. God, you can't make that kind of shit up!"

The woman cracked up laughing, "No, I guess you can't."

"It comes with the territory." She said, tossing the remains of her brown bag lunch away.

"So do those nice cars, huh?"

"Those testosterone machines? Christ, I'd kill for a nice Honda sometimes!" Lexie laughed.

"Girl, you are so real." Norma said, crossing her arms across her chest.

"Well, my folks would be happy to hear that. They put a lot of time and energy into that one aspect of my life. Nick just about passed out when he saw me do my own laundry and cook. Like he had never seen someone who wasn't paid do those things." Lexie joked.

"It's a good thing, because that life sounds like it can be nuts."

"It is nuts. I've got his daughter cleaning up after herself now too."

"Well, good for you." She said, walking with Lexie back down into the warehouse.

The next day, Lexie went to Gina and told her what date she needed off for the trial, then went and told her crew about the change in the schedule.

"You really got to go?" Norma asked after the rest of the crew went about their tasks. She and Norma had become friends, with the older woman taking to Lexie like a mother figure.

"Yeah, I do. I just have to say that she's the one who pushed me." Lexie sighed, closing the schedule folder. I hope.

"That's terrible, baby. Well, we'll handle everything while you're gone."

"It'll just be one day." Lexie said distractedly.

"That husband of yours coming back?"

"Nick? Naw, he needs to keep his project moving. My sister and brother-in-law will be there. It really isn't a big deal." Lexie smiled.

"You know, I haven't met him, but I can already tell you're too good for him." Norma chuckled.

"Funny, my dad says the same thing." Lexie laughed with her.

February 27

Lexie sat in the courtroom, listening impassively to the testimonies before hers. The doctors talked about her injuries, what the fall had done to her and the baby, and then eventually the county coroner told them the cause of death of the baby.

Suffocation.

As the placenta began to tear away from the uterus, the baby got less and less blood, less and less oxygen causing her death and eventual miscarriage. Trauma caused from the fall had bruised her brain and body beyond the medical skill of the world-renowned UCLA Medical Center.

No one had been more astonished than Nick when Lexie remembered everything from that day. She innocently asked him how his injuries were after he had tripped on the hose and fallen. He quizzed her on what she knew and then told Jill, who reported it to the State Attorney's office during the forming of the case.

"The prosecution calls, Mrs. Alexandria Carter." The Bailiff announced. With a reassuring squeeze of her hand from Jill, she rose and approached the witness seat. She stood, swore to tell the truth, and sat down.

"Please state your full legal name and occupation."

"Alexandria Janelle Dorough-Carter. I'm an appraiser with Westin House Auctions." She said clearly.

The state prosecutor stood and offered her a smile, which she returned.

"Mrs. Carter, do you remember the events on May 9, 2024?"

"Yes."

"Do you remember being pushed from the stairs and. . ." he began.

"Objection. The prosecution is assuming Mrs. Carter was pushed." The defense attorney rose to his feet.

"Sustained. Restate the question, Mr. Johnson." The judge said.

"Do you remember falling and being injured that day?"

"Yes."

"We've already had the doctors tell the court what your injuries were, but I'd like to ask you, Mrs. Carter." He began. "How far into the pregnancy were you?"

"Five months."

"So, you were visibly pregnant."

"Yes."

"Mrs. Carter, do you recognize the defendant in this trial?"

"Yes."

"How do you know the defendant?"

She looked at the prosecutor, and he nodded her to answer.

"She was the one who pushed me over the temporary rail at the courthouse."

"No further questions, your Honor." Mr. Johnson said, returning to his seat.

The defense attorney got up and slowly headed for her.

"Mrs. Carter, do you know the name of the defendant?"

"Excuse me?"

"Do you know her name?"

"No." Lexie confessed. She hadn't been paying attention to the details of the trial anyway. Sure it had been screamed at her that night at the hotel with Nick, but she hadn't wanted to remember anything except her time with him.

"Why not, Mrs. Carter?"

"I. . ."

"Why not, Mrs. Carter?" he insisted.

"Objection, your honor, badgering the witness." Mr. Johnson said, getting to his feet.

"Sustained. Move on, Mr. Wells."

"Very well. Mrs. Carter, is it true that you have never visited the grave of your lost baby?"

Lexie's blood began to run cold. Where is he going? What does he want? What is his point?

"Objection, your Honor. Irrelevant."

"Your point, Mr. Wells?"

"I want to clarify Mrs. Carter's state of mind during the time after the incident, that's all, your honor."

"Very well."

"Mrs. Carter, you fell nearly 15 feet onto construction materials. You were unconscious at the time and remained so for quite a while afterwards, as stated by your own doctors. How can you remember the events of that day?"

"I don't know, but I do."

"Really? What do you remember?"

"I was walking down the stairs with Nick, and she was right in front of us the entire time. When Nick tripped, he stumbled and fell. I waited for him to get up, but he told me to go on with the bodyguards."

"Did your husband, former Backstreet Boy, Nick Carter, push you?"

"No, our grip was broken, and then the crowd moved forward toward him, pushing me back toward the rail. She was the last one I saw as they moved forward. She grabbed my arm, pushed me back, and I landed against the rail."

"You know, that sounds like a description of what was on the video tape. How many times have you seen the video tape?"

"I haven't."

"You haven't what, Mrs. Carter?"

"I haven't seen the video tape."

"Nothing? Any news coverage?"

"I don't watch much TV." Lexie shrugged.

"So, you're not following this trial at all?"

"No, what I've heard, I've heard from my lawyer."

"Why did you feel you need a lawyer, Mrs. Carter?"

"She's my sister-in-law." Lexie stuttered.

"Oh, yes, 'Carter, Carlson and Ryans'." Mr. Wells muttered. "So, back to the original question. Mrs. Carter, have you ever visited your baby's grave?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"I didn't want to."

"You don't want to see where your baby is?"

"No, I. . .I let Nick take care of all of that." She stammered.

"Mrs. Carter, where is Mr. Carter today?"

"Orlando."

"What is he doing there?"

"Recording."

"He's not here to be with you?"

"No, I told him not to come." Lexie said, trying to sound stronger.

"Mrs. Carter, is it safe to say that the outcome of this trial isn't that important to you or your husband?"

"Objection! Mr. and Mrs. Carter's feelings on the outcome of this trial are irrelevant."

"Yes, they are! This is a trial for an alleged assault that resulted in the death of their unborn child! I think the parents' feelings have some bearing on it!"

By now, Lexie could feel her calm exterior beginning to crumble. There was a tremor in her body, and she was beginning to have a tough time concentrating because of the growing fear inside of her. She reached out and grabbed the front of the witness box, dropping her head. The jury watched her slowly begin to shake her head 'no'.

"Mrs. Carter! Doesn't it matter to you that my client has children too! Children who will be without their mother if she is convicted!" Mr. Wells demanded.

"Objection, Your Honor!"

"Isn't it true, Mrs. Carter, that not only do you not know the name of my client, you know absolutely nothing about this trial because you don't care about what happens?" Mr. Wells demanded.

"Your Honor! He is badgering the witness!"

"No! No! It's not true, but my baby is dead, and there's nothing you or Mr. Johnson can do to bring her back!" Lexie suddenly screamed as she jumped to her feet. "Nick and I have suffered enough at the hands of these people, and we're just trying to get on with our lives!"

There wasn't another sound in the courtroom except the sound of Lexie's shrill voice echoing against the polished wood of the room's paneling. The prosecutor was at her side, trying to calm her down as she began to sob. She sat back down, not allowed to leave until the judge dismissed her. She couldn't see Jill, struggling to control herself as Aaron held her down. Mr. Johnson handed her some tissues, some water, and the entire court waited for her to compose herself.

"Mrs. Carter, we need to continue." The judge said gently. Lexie nodded her consent.

"Mrs. Carter, I am sorry for your loss." Mr. Wells began, but Lexie's answer was a clear snort. "Mrs. Carter, can you be sure that my client is the one?"

"Yes." Lexie said clearly, with a slight tremble still in her voice. She remembered. She remembered more than she had even told Nick. Now, she had no choice to tell them what she did know.

"I can't help but remember every detail of the day DJ died. Earlier that morning, Nick and I had argued about when to put the wallpaper up so we'd have it done on time. I wanted to wait another month because I wasn't sure if I liked the one we picked out, but he wanted it up that next week. Then we left for the courthouse." Lexie said.

"I woke up after she was born, but I didn't know she was gone until I looked down. My father tried to tell me, but I didn't want to listen to him. They brought the doctor in, but I got so upset, and all I wanted was to see Nick. He was in the nursery with his brother saying goodbye to her. . .he sang her lullabies. Did you know that?"

She lifted her dark eyes to the defense attorney and continued. "He hadn't sung since the tour ended and all the injunctions against him started. That had been the first time. He sang to me a few more times in the hospital, but not again until after we were married. I don't know why, he just stopped."

"Nothing that happens in the courtroom is ever going to give my family back what we've lost. It's never going to give me back my baby. It isn't going to give Nick's daughter back her sense of security or fairness. It isn't going to give me back the man I fell in love with before all of this happened. All we're trying to do, Mr. Wells, is get on with our lives the best we know how, and right now that means Nick needs to stay in Orlando and try to find the voice that comes from his heart and makes him sing, CJ needs to believe her daddy can protect her, and that as her parents, we aren't going to let anything ever happen to her again."

Lexie sat back in the witness chair, looking defeated and tired, but she was only gathering the courage for her own confession. She unknotted the tissue in her hand and then looked up at the defense attorney.

"And I've got to someday believe I can carry a baby to term so we can complete our love and happiness without fear of someone feeling they have the right to take it all away from us just because he's a former Backstreet Boy or that I'm the daughter of a Backstreet Boy."

The courtroom was stunned into silence. There was no doubt in Lexie's voice that she remembered what she remembered correctly. Mr. Wells made some more noise about not being able to prove what she remembered because of her injuries. Lexie's testimony had been so moving, that the state didn't need to prove it. It was obvious the jury took her at her word. Her outburst had humanized what she and Nick had been through; pulling them down from superstar status to human beings hurt by the loss of their child.

Lexie left the stand after she was dismissed and didn't wait for anyone. Aaron's security was able to catch up with her, but Jill and Aaron were left behind. They got her into the rented car, where the door closed on the crowd, and slowly pulled away. The cell phone in her pocket began to vibrate, but she ignored it. Instead, she ordered the driver to take her home.

He pulled up in front of the house, where she got out and went straight to the master bedroom. She shut the door with a solid thump and leaned against it, closing her eyes. She breathed, trying to recapture some of the composure she was desperately trying to maintain.

It's her life, it's her love, and it's her family.

She had to be strong, and she had to fight. She couldn't let Nick down. She couldn't fail her parents or CJ or AJ or anyone.

The house phone rang and she waited, hoping that Cook was home and she would answer it. She didn't, and Lexie let it ring through to the answering service, deciding she would get the message later. In the distance, she heard her name being called, and she could tell it was Aaron.

She opened her eyes and looked around the bedroom. She kicked off her shoes and began to remove her suit. She was in her blouse and skirt when Aaron came in without even knocking. Lexie looked back at him and was momentarily startled by how much he looked like Nick. Of course, Aaron's hair was shorter and Nick was still taller, but in the dim afternoon light that filtered through the bedroom's blinds, he was Nick.

"Lex? You okay? Why didn't you answer your phone?" he demanded gently, even sounding like Nick. She knew he was trying hard to control his anger and worry.

"I'm sorry." She swallowed. "I just needed to be alone for a little bit. Who called?"

"Everyone. Your parents, AJ, Gina, Nick. . ." he began.

"I'd better call Nick." She said, moving toward the bedroom phone.

"You okay?" he asked again.

She looked up at him from where she sat, the cordless phone in her hand, "Yeah, I'm fine, Aaron. I swear."

And she smiled.

Nick hadn't known what to do or what to be after the telecast of Lexie's testimony. It hadn't gone at all how the prosecutor had said it would. It had been mean, brutal, and so true, so very close to his heart.

She had cried a little when they spoke. She remained strong, and he was proud of her, but he reminded her that she didn't have to be strong in front of him. He loved her, and he understood her pain. That's when the floodgates opened. She cried for nearly five minutes, then stopped and reclaimed her resolve. She said she still had a lot to do for CJ's party tomorrow night.

"God, is that tomorrow?" he had asked.

"That means more than you know." She choked.

It was nearly 2 a.m. in Orlando and he was lounging at the pool at AJ's house. He and Alex had gone to bed hours ago. On the nights when Nick did come home, they were both usually asleep. Nick remembered those days, being a single dad and not nearly enough energy to chase a 4-year-old. He had gone to bed early then too.

Today, he had sent everyone home early and watched the trial. After the testimony, he had been so stunned that it was Howie who started dialing Lexie first, then AJ, and then he began. She had called him first.

Nothing would take away the guilt he felt now. He never should have left her to deal with that alone; he should have been there for her. He should have moved them all here as soon as possible and not left her to take care of everything.

He missed CJ. It had been nearly a month, and he could barely stand it. Next weekend, he would be leaving for a visit home, and he couldn't wait. He loved and missed them both so much, he couldn't imagine ever doing this again.

Maybe the whole thing was a joke. He hadn't released in album in over five years, who the hell was going to buy it? Old Backstreet Boys fans? Old Nick Carter fans? Nick sighed heavily. He had signed the contract, and Howie was investing the money in this for him. Howie believed in him and maybe AJ did, too. What if Howie and AJ were only doing this because he was married to Lexie?

Nick growled aloud in frustration, putting down the last of the four beers he had been drinking. He picked up Fairy Bunny and looked him in the eye.

"You know. If I suck, I wish someone would just say something. I have enough money in the bank, you know. Okay, not that much, but it's coming back in." Nick said aloud. "You know, guy, maybe I'm just kidding myself. I'm just a washed up teen idol who ain't got no business singing to anyone any more."

By morning, everyone had called Lexie, even Jake from Seattle. Well, he also called to say he and Missy broke up again. She was heading to L.A. to go to school there, once her mom joined Jill's law firm. Lexie told him she was sorry and that if he wanted to kill a weekend, he could come down and hang out with her. He said he might take her up on that, but he had to get his dad to pay for some airline tickets. She agreed to leave the light on for him.

Lexie told CJ a muted truth about her day in court, and they seemed like good enough answers for her. CJ was strangely quiet that evening and Lexie suspected there was something else on CJ's mind other than the trial, her father's absence, and her slumber party. Lexie didn't press her; they just went through their evening routine of eating, playing, and doing homework.

"So, are you ready for your slumber party tonight?" Lexie asked, sitting inside the master bath as CJ showered in the morning.

"Yeah!"

"Did you invite that new girl?"

"Yeah, her parents are going to drop her off here first. They want to know where the house is."

"You give them the address?"

"Yes, but we'll have to leave the party list at the gate so they can get in."

"Got that all printed up to hand to the guard when we leave this morning." Lexie answered. "So, no one freaked out when you said you were going to invite her?"

"No, well, kinda. Martha and Brittany said they weren't going to come, but then they changed their mind."

"Wow, that's pretty good." Lexie said.

"Yeah. Jane told them they were being stupid, which they were. I told them I didn't care if they showed up or not." CJ said, grunting as she shut off the water and stepped from the shower. Lexie tossed her a towel.

CJ dried herself off, wrapped herself in a towel and then began to comb through her wet hair.

"I wish my hair was dark like yours." CJ said suddenly.

"How come?" Lexie asked, her brow furrowed at CJ's comment.

"Then people would think you were my mom." She said, continuing to work the tangles out of her hair.

"Well, then you wouldn't look like your dad."

CJ gave her the funniest look, then went back to looking in the mirror and continued to work out her hair, "Everyone knows that's not his real hair color." She said with a roll of her eyes.

Lexie let out a hearty laugh, "Well, you got me there."

"Do you think my mother has blonde hair?" she asked softly.

"I bet she does." Lexie answered gently.

"Sometimes people think Aunt Jill is my mom."

"Well, you're both blonde."

"Did your mom have dark hair?"

"Yes, but I'm not exactly sure what color was. She used to change it too. Just like AJ."

"What color were her eyes?"

"Blue."

"Yours look even darker than AJ's."

"I think they are." Lexie agreed.

"Mine are just like Dad's." CJ said, putting down the comb.

"You guys have the same nose, too." Lexie said, tapping it and then pulling her closer. "CJ? Is there anything you want to ask me?"

CJ was quiet for a while, and then she just shrugged.

"Well, you know, if you ever want to ask me anything, you can. Anything at all." Lexie said.

"Okay." CJ shrugged.

"Good. You about ready to go?"

"I gotta brush my teeth." She said. Lexie turned her around and swatted her toweled behind.

"Well, get a move on." Lexie smiled.

The rest of their morning routine went as usual, with the exception that it was Friday and CJ's sleepover at the house was that night. The half dozen girls who were coming came clamoring up to the car, begging for details, and asking tons of questions.

Yes, there would movies in the theater.

Yes, there would be popcorn.

No, you can't play the stereo as loud as you want.

Yes, there will be plenty of pop for everyone.

No, there would not be any boys, not even CJ's dad. If they were lucky, they might see Jane's dad, but that was it in the way of "boys".

They were relieved.

Lexie threw her backpack into a chair in her office and turned on her computer. She grabbed her coffee cup and head toward the coffee machine when Steve and Bobby, two of the biggest men she had ever met, walked by.

"Nice Bimmer, Mrs. Carter." Steve joked.

"Yeah, nice and shiny, Mrs. Carter." Bobby laughed.

"You two knock it off, or I'm going to kick your asses." She smiled.

"You know, "Steve began, stopping to wrangle with the coffee pot. "We don't have anything to do at lunch, we could wash it for you."

"Why would I want you to do that? I have a stable of half naked house boys to do that for me." She said, completely straight faced.

"You do?" Bobby asked.

"Man, she's joking." Steve groaned.

"Oh!" Bobby muttered.

"You two get that last truck unloaded?" Lexie asked.

"No, the forklift battery croaked and it's stuck halfway in. We're just going to get another so we can tow it out of the way."

"Think you'll be done today?"

"Yeah, if Norma and Bates move that Hunt estate out of cargo hold 14."

"Okay, I'll check on that for you."

"Cool." Steve said with a bob of his head.

Lexie left them to get back to the last of her entries for the last truckload. Then she went and lent a hand unloading the last truck to start appraising the items. They had been utterly amazed she knew how to drive a forklift, something Nick still couldn't believe she could do.

"It's one line and a few notes, can you just try to sing it right!?" AJ snapped, flicking off the external speakers from the recording booth before Nick could answer.

"Ease up, AJ." Brian said sternly.

"Well, if he hadn't stayed up last night and did a six-pack of beer, he could do this." AJ snapped at him.

"Nick, take ten." Brian said into the booth.

"What the fuck are you doing?" AJ demanded.

"Excuse me, but I'm this song's producer. If you have a problem with that, you can go screw. . ." Brian snapped back.

"Will you two knock it off!!?!" Michelle, Howie's assistant, said.

"You bring the coffee, little lady." AJ's reply was snide.

"You want to wear the coffee, asshole?" She snapped back.

"That's enough!" Howie groaned from his seat across the room. "AJ get out of here, it's Brian's project."

AJ gathered his things and headed for the door, Howie got up and grabbed his arm and pulling him close, "And don't ever talk to one of my employees like that again."

AJ snapped his arm loose and left the recording studio. Howie shook his head and headed back to Michelle and Brian.

"I'm sorry, Howie." Michelle said with her soft New England accent.

"No, don't worry about it. He deserved it." Howie smiled for her. "I left those quarterly reports on your desk, can you revise them according to my notes?"

"Sure." She said, turning to leave. After she left, Brian turned to Howie, but Howie was staring inside at a very lost looking Nick.

"You think he can finish this today?" Howie asked.

"No, his voice is shot." Brian sighed.

"Send him home then. Actually, why don't you two come over for dinner tonight." Howie suggested. "I'll call Leah, and we can just relax."

"Sure, that's no problem."

"I'll talk to AJ, but I think he and Nick have been living together too long."

"We could get a bigger suite together." Brian said.

"Yeah, that might be best." Howie agreed. He leaned over and flicked on the mic to the recording booth. "You and Brian are coming over to dinner tonight. Why don't you two split for the rest of the day. I'll see you at 6."

The smell of the propane was testing Lexie's sinuses to the limit as she finally got the last settee placed in the cargo hold for inspection tomorrow. She figured this round would take her another week to get through. She parked the forklift with the others for the night and turned it off with a sigh of relief. She rubbed her eyes and nose then climbed down to walk back across the warehouse. Norma pulled up on an electric cart.

"You need a lift, girl?"

"Yeah." Lexie smiled with relief, climbing onboard the golf cart.

"You still got all those girls coming over tonight?"

"Yes, I thought there was just four, but now it's looking like six, plus CJ and her cousin, Jane." Lexie smiled.

"You gonna have any help?"

"Nope, just me and them. They made sure there weren't going to be any boys there. They may run Nick's brother off the property if they see him."

"Girl, I don't envy you."

"Funny, that's what Nick said, too." Lexie smiled. "But this is the first sleepover that CJ's ever had, so it's pretty important. She picked out all the food, movies, and activities. Half of which I doubt we're going to use."

"You'll be surprised." Norma laughed. "Well, you can always come to work on Monday and sleep."

Well, some of the spots of the evening were better than others. They screamed and ran away when Aaron showed up with Jane. He almost looked hurt when Jane told him 'no boys allowed'. Aaron did smile and wave as she slammed the door on him. Lexie called and apologized as he drove home, but he was laughing too hard to really talk and drive at the same time.

It was nearly 8 o'clock, and the girls had settled down for a move, when she received a phone call she wasn't expecting.

"Carter residence." Lexie said, collapsing on the office chair.

"Hello, this is Mark Nelson from CBS and I'd like to speak with Lexie Carter, please."

"This is Lexie."

"Mrs. Carter? Oh, it's nice to finally talk to you."

"Really? What can I do for you, Mr. Nelson?"

"Oh, let me fully introduce myself. I'm the senior show producer for Victoria Winslow at CBS news. Vicki asked me to see if I could arrange an interview with you."

"Me? What for?" Lexie asked, stunned that a nationally known TV interviewer would want to talk to her.

"Well, Vicki was very moved by your testimony during the trial, and she would like your reaction, now that it's over."

"It's over?"

"Yes, didn't you hear? The jury came back in today and the verdict was announced around 6 p.m. your time."

"I'm sorry, but I have a house full of girls for a slumber party. I haven't had time to do much else." Lexie said.

"Well, would you like me to tell you the verdict?"

"Yes."

"She was convicted, Mrs. Carter. She's been sentenced to the maximum."

"Well, she's as much a victim as all of us, I suppose." Lexie sighed.

"Really, what makes you say that?"

"The unions used her as part of their attack on Nick, putting her in the position she was in and harming me. I mean, I don't think if she and I had just been standing there quietly, she would have pushed me. She got caught up in the adrenaline. I know her lawyer works for them, so why didn't they plea-bargain her out of the charge? Why make it go to trial? It's obvious they are just trying to keep the issue in the public eye, when it should have died when their connection to Jive was exposed in the last of Nick's trial." Lexie said.

"Is that what you think?"

"Why else would they want to put her through a trial? Why would they attack me during a romantic dinner? It is all to keep themselves in the public eye, but the truth is if they had not blocked Nick's tour in the first place, none of this would have happened. It already came out in trial that Nick's production company pays higher than average wages to journeymen."

"You know, Lexie, I think Vicki would be very interested in talking to you."

"I don't know. I don't really get involved in Nick's career publicly."

"No, she doesn't want to talk about Nick, she wants to talk about you."

Mark offered to call back on Monday, but Lexie was curious as hell to know why Victoria Winslow would want to interview her. Sure, she had offers before, but mostly by tabloid or useless press she did not care about. Victoria Winslow was her generation's Barbara Walters, and it was a sure thing that the interview would be done with taste and restraint.

The phone rang again before she had a chance to get up and leave the office.

"Carter residence."

"Hey, girl, how goes the siege?"

"Ha! Their little brains are turning to mush as they watch some movies." She laughed at Jake. "You talk to your dad?"

"Naw, he's still in London, but Mom's paying. So, can you pick me up tomorrow?"

"When you going to be in?"

"After 4 p.m."

"Great, the kids'll be gone by noon and CJ is going to her grandmother's!" Lexie cheered.

"Then we got to go have some grown up fun. Do a little clubbing. . ."

"Damn, there is about a dozen places I used to go to I haven't seen in over a year. I'm gonna have to call Gina to find out if any of them are still open."

"Hey, that's that little blonde, right? Why don't you invite her?" he said eagerly.

"Jake! You just broke up with your girlfriend!" Lexie groaned.

"Out with the old, in with the new!" he laughed.

Brian leaned against the rail of the boardwalk, watching Nick off in the distance. It was getting dark, and they had already missed dinner at Howie's. Brian didn't have the heart to rush him. He watched Nick stop and pick up the occasional stone or shell, then lob it into the ocean. The wind was pushing Nick's ponytail, loose strands whipping around his face like a halo.

Brian saw Nick answer the phone, and he talked to whoever had been on the other side for quite awhile, then hung up and headed farther out along the public beach. Brian clasped his fingers together and leaned forward on the rail closest to the water. Nick must have sensed Brian’s heavy sigh. He turned and headed back toward the boardwalk.

"Feeling better?" Brian asked as Nick pushed the loose strands of hair behind his ear.

"Yeah."

"Who called?" Brian asked, although he had already guessed.

"Lexie. CJ's party is going well. She's going out tomorrow night with some girlfriends, Gina and the twins. Lord knows she deserves it." Nick said with a wistful smile.

"You tell her what happened?" Brian asked.

"No, she sounded so happy." Nick sighed. "Besides, it'll blow over. It always does with him. I want her to have a good time when she goes out. I don't want her worrying about me. Sounds like CJ and her friends are having a good time."

"I'm sure they are. Hey, let's go get something to eat since we missed dinner at Howie's."

"Why didn't you say something?" Nick asked, casting his eyes out onto the water again. He saw Brian shrug out of the corner of his eye. "She probably did a lot of work, too."

"She said it was okay. I spoke with them a while ago. I told them you looked like you needed the time."

"Thanks, Bri." Nick sighed.

"He got us a new hotel suite. We can go pick up your things tonight, move you in. . ." Brian began as they turned to walk back to the car.

"Let me go talk to AJ first, see if he's calmed down." Nick said as they walked.

"I'm sure he has. Probably have a couple beers waiting for us."

"Yeah, probably." Nick agreed quietly.

When Brian and Nick arrived at the house, it was dark. The alarm was set, so it was obvious that no one was home. Brian followed Nick upstairs to the guestroom and helped him put his bags back together. Brian couldn’t help but smile when he first saw the mess. Some things never change and obviously Nick’s messy habits from the road were some of those things.

They carried his bags downstairs once they were finished. "You want to leave him a note or something?" Brian asked as they stood in the open kitchen.

"No, don't bother, I know what's up." AJ said from behind them in the living room.

"Where's Alex?" Brian asked.

"He's with his grandparents." AJ said.

"Look, AJ. . ." Nick began.

"No, it’s okay." AJ sighed with a wave of his hand. "It was just a long day, okay?"

"Howie got us a suite. . ." Brian began.

"Yeah, I know, I know. I got the speech already about being too controlling and to give Nick his space and shit." AJ grumbled.

"No, no, it's okay." Nick said.

"No, it's not. Howie gave you creative control."

"Well, if it's worth anything. I know you're just trying to help." Nick shrugged.

"Yeah, I am." AJ said, looking up at Nick, who wasn't looking at anyone. AJ looked over at Brian, "But unless you're ready to do this project, it isn't going to happen."

"AJ." Brian sighed.

"No, he's right." Nick groaned. "I thought I was ready. . ."

"Nick?" Brian asked.

"Oh, who the fuck am I kidding?!" Nick finally snapped. "You guys should just go home, this just isn't going to happen."

"What?!" Brian protested. "Where the hell is this coming from?!"

They listened to him rant and rave for nearly 20 minutes: Brian and AJ finally resigning themselves to lean against the couch until he was done. He claimed he was a has-been, he didn't stand a chance, and no one was going to buy this album, that he was just a washed up teen idol and a pathetic one at that.

Suddenly, Nick fell silent and looked over at the two of them. They were leaning against the back of the couch with their arms crossed, waiting for him to finish.

"Oh! I think he's done." Brian said.

"About time." AJ muttered.

"Well, Howie may have a few words to add, but I think I'll cover it when I tell you to quit being a jackass." Brian smiled.

"I'd like to add he's being stupid." AJ said.

"It's a pity contract, and you guys know it!" Nick snapped at them.

"Ewww, I wouldn't say that to his face." Brian cringed.

"I should have never signed it." Nick groaned. "I should have just gotten my own deal. . ."

"So, you do think you can sell records." AJ said.

"I. . ." Nick stuttered.

"So, the problem is that it's Howie’s record company?" Brian asked.

"No, I. . ." Nick began again.

"You think he only did this because you're married to Lexie." AJ said. "And you can't move past it."

"Well, no, I. . ." Nick tried to begin again.

"Let me see if I've got this right. You think the project is going to be a flop and that Howie only signed you because you're married to Lexie, but without us you think you can sell records?" AJ said.

"No, that's not. . ." Nick protested.

"I think we are wasting our time." Brian said, interrupting Nick. "Mister Hotshot over here thinks he can do it better without us."

"Brian. . ." Nick groaned.

"Well, hey, I'm sure there is a nice beach somewhere in the world I'd rather be on." AJ said.

"I've got a wife in Atlanta I'd rather be on." Brian said.

"Stop it, you guys!" Nick yelled.

"So, what the fuck is the problem!?" AJ snapped back.

"What if I fail?!" Nick yelled back at him. A silence fell over the three of them. Nick ran a hand over his face, pushing loose hair from his face. He turned and headed out to the patio.

"Come on, let's go get him." Brian smirked at AJ.

"God, forty-five, and we're still holding his hand." AJ smirked back.

"I guess that what happens when you're the 'cute one'." Brian joked as they followed Nick outside. Nick was hunched on a chaise, his body tense and turned away from them.

"Nick, I don't know what to tell you." Brian said, sitting in a chair next to him. "We don't know how it's going to go, but the advance reaction has been good. Local interviews you've done are going over well, people are asking about you and this record."

"People want you to succeed, Nick, especially after all you've been through." AJ added. "All any of us want you to do is try."

"I can't deal with another failure." Nick said quietly.

"Nick, there are no guarantees, but if you put your heart and soul into it, you can’t fail. People will see that." Brian said.

"I don't know that I have any left."

"If you can't do this for yourself or your fans. Do it for them." Brian said, reaching out and pulling on Nick's wedding ring. "Your life isn't about you any more, Nick. It's CJ and Lexie."

"I don't want to let them down." Nick mumbled.

"You can't. They love you and they don't care if your next album goes platinum or not." Brian said.

Nick's response was a nod of his head.

"Come on, buddy." AJ sighed. "You can do this. We wouldn't all be here if it was just a pity trip. I would have slapped Howie myself for doing that."

"I just don't know, you guys." Nick sighed.

"I do. We both do." Brian smiled. "I think you're just homesick."

"I'm headed home this weekend." Nick shrugged.

"Yeah, well, maybe you should go home a couple of days early." AJ said. "Like Wednesday or something."

"Maybe."

"Maybe? Sounds like a sure thing to me. I wouldn't mind a long weekend." Brian smiled.

"Yeah, makes me proud to know someone's getting some." AJ chuckled, getting to his feet. "Lord knows I'm not."

"What happened to that sweet young thing in L.A.?"

"Oh please!" AJ groaned, then he made some whimpering puppy noises and then waved the two of them off. "You guys want a beer?"

"Sure, bring out a couple." Brian said as AJ went back into the house.

"Brian." Nick said. "I'm still not so sure about this."

"I know. I know it's scary after all you've been through. But if you don't do this, Nick, you'll never know. You'll never know if you could have gotten back on stage and performed again. It's your life, man, has been since you were a little snot-nosed, 13-year-old punk. I know, I was there."

"Okay." Nick nodded. AJ came back and handed them each a long-neck bottle. "Don't tell Howie, okay?"

"We won't." AJ said.

It was a long night for Lexie, but she managed to get about two hours sleep before parents came to pick up their kids. They were all gone by noon, and CJ was happily leaving with her grandmother's driver by one. Lexie closed the front door with a solid thud and headed upstairs for a nap before Jake arrived. She just hired a driver to pick him up since she was just too tired to do it herself.

He walked into the house about an hour after his flight arrived. She hustled him to a guestroom, and he showered and changed for their evening out.

"What are you going to wear?" Jake whined, sprawled across Nick and Lexie's bed. "Hey! You going to wear one of those short, black numbers?" He added excitedly.

"Just about." She laughed, coming out of the bathroom adjusting an earring. "How's this? I'm not looking too 'married to a famous guy', am I?"

"You look well kept." He smirked, his green eyes sparkling.

"Shut up!" She groaned, pulling on her shoes.

The dress she picked was actually black, but it was a basic spaghetti strapped dress that had a looser bodice and a full skirt that ended just above her knees.

"So, is Nick really cool about this?"

"Sure." She shrugged, transferring items from one purse to another.

"Okay, what happened?" Jake said, lowering his voice.

"You sound like your dad when you do that." She smiled.

"I DO NOT!" he protested. "You're just trying to change the subject!" he said, wagging a finger at her. Lexie knew how much the comparisons bugged Jake. "What did he say?"

"Nothing, he's cool with it. It just me and some friends going out." She smiled. "He's not all weird and jealous or anything. I don't have those problems. Now, are we going out or not?"

"What car are we taking?" Jake asked, getting to his feet.

"About that." She began as they headed out of the bedroom and down the hall.

"He said no to the Prowler, didn’t he?"

"Actually, I didn't have time to ask. It was the second thing he said after 'have a good time'." Lexie laughed. "So, your choice is going to be red Porsche, black Porsche, white Porsche, black BMW two door, black BMW four door, a white Ford truck thing, or the very metallic silver Ferrari."

"That's it?"

"He hasn't gotten the other ones back yet."

"Oh, God, okay. . .hmmm. . .I say. . .Ferrari. . ." Jake smiled.

"One Ferrari it is." Lexie laughed, stepping into the garage and tossing him the keys from the wall peg. "And don't scratch it, or your dad is paying for it."

"Naw, I'll just ask mom!" Jake cackled, tossing the keys up in his hand.

They met Gina and the twins, Marley and Maddy, at The Watering Hole and were escorted straight in. It was either the name Richardson, Dorough-Carter, or Ferrari that got them in quickly, but none of them pushed the issue. They started out the evening with drinks and after enough alcohol, they all hit the dance floor.

The group dancing was wild and uninhibited, with Lexie expelling more energy than she thought she had. It was pretty clear about half way through the night that Gina and Jake were pretty attracted to one another. Lexie, Marley, and Maddy had their own choice of dance partners as well, which didn't leave them wanting for company.

Lexie couldn't believe it was nearly 2:30 when they heard last call. This club had been enough entertainment for all of them, and they hadn't bounced around town like they had planned.

Lexie noticed a few people in the same position she was in; child of a famous person. Jake met up with Drew Barrymoore's daughter, only because their parents had worked together on a number of films together. The others she didn't know except from reputation, mainly because Howie hadn't let her come to Hollywood when she was younger and had kept all the kids out of the limelight. A small part of her felt at home, another felt like an outsider, but after a few drinks everyone seemed all right.

Everyone in their party made last call and settled into their private table to finish their last drinks. Their party had gone from five to nearly 15. Some unknown Lathario was hanging on Lexie, but she ignored him, getting tired of saying she was married.

"So, how are we all getting home?" Gina asked over the music.

"He was supposed to stay sober to drive home!" Lexie laughed, pointing to a nearly unconscious Jake laying his head on her shoulder.

"You ain't driving." Marley slurred in her ear.

"Hell, neither are you!" Maddy agreed heavily.

"I'm not leaving that car here." Lexie groaned, feeling her head beginning to swim from the alcohol.

"Can't you call someone? Please?" Jake groaned.

"Who?!"

"Don't Nick have a brother or something?"

"Aaron? You want me to call, Aaron? Oh, yeah, right, I can hear it now. . .uh. . .Aaron, can you come get me and drive Nick's Ferrari home?" Lexie said, making up a phone voice.

"I could drive you home." The unknown young and. . .very firm. . .Lexie noted, man next to her said.

"No! No! No! I'll get you home!" Jake declared.

"You can't drive!" Marley said.

"I'll call my mom. . ." he began.

"Oh no you don't! You call your mom and she's gonna tell my dad and he's gonna tell my husband and. . .no! You are not calling your mom!" Lexie protested.

"Okay, okay, okay." Jake slurred. "What are we going to do?"

"I don't know." Lexie groaned.

"Let's just take cabs home and come back tomorrow and pick it up." Gina said.

"I can't leave it just parked out there!"

"It's in valet parking. They'll watch it." Gina said.

"Yeah, what she said." Marley added.

"You sure?" Lexie asked.

"I'm sure. C'mon, let's go." Gina said, pushing herself out of the booth and past the leeches.

Maddy got them all cabs, easily ditching the people who followed them outside. Jake and Lexie took a cab to the house; Gina, Marley, and Maddy all went home to their apartments.

The sun was cracking through the bedroom windows at noon when the phone rang. Unable to move, Lexie let it ring through to the service, but it kept on ringing. Finally, Jake stumbled in, still dressed from the night before and fell onto the bed next to her. He handed her the phone.

"It's Nick."

"Oh, fuck." She groaned. She took the phone, her face still buried into the blankets and offered him a muffled "hello".

"Have a good time?" She heard him chuckle.

"Uh, huh."

"You didn't tell me Jake was there."

"Forgot."

"I bet you've forgotten quite a few things."

"Uh, huh."

"My mom called, wondering where you were all night. She wants to keep CJ another night and take her to school tomorrow."

"Uh, huh."

"What did you guys drive last night?"

Long pause.

"Ferrari."

"It okay?"

"Uh, huh."

"I'll let you go, okay, honey?" Nick chuckled.

"Uh, huh."

"Just hang the keys up."

"Yep."

"Bye."

"Uh, huh."

Click.

Yes, they had driven the Ferrari, gone to the club, danced, and drank, came home in cabs. . .cabs?

"Oh, shit!" Lexie said, sitting up in bed, still dressed in her party clothes.

"What?! What?! What?!" Jake asked, sitting up as well.

"Where the fuck is the Ferrari!"

"What's so funny?" Brian asked as Nick turned off his cell phone.

"My mom's been calling the house all night and this morning, trying to get hold of Lexie." Nick chuckled, "But there hasn't been an answer, so she called me."

"Lexie okay?"

"Well, 'okay' is relative. I think she partied just a little too hard last night. I just talked to her, she's barely out of the grunt stage of the hangover." Nick giggled. "I think she'll be happy to know that CJ won't be there."

"You seem pretty calm about this." Brian smiled.

"You know, we can talk about how age doesn't matter, but the truth is Lexie is still a young woman with friends of her own. I did worse things than this when I was her age." Nick sighed.

"It's good you understand that." Brian smiled.

"You know, she's with me 100%. I can't fault her a thing." Nick smiled. "There are some things I'm totally sure about."

"Good. You sound better about things this morning."

"A little."

"Even more so since Howie agreed to let you go home early."

"Yeah, that helps." Nick blushed.

"Good, I'm glad. I'm glad you and AJ are okay with you guys not living together."

"Well, I'll miss Alex, but I could live without his dad." Nick chuckled. "You have any idea how fussy AJ has become? Jesus, it's like living with a woman. You got to use coasters all the time, can't put your feet up on the furniture, gotta wash your own dishes. . .God forbid you leave a dirty dish in the sink."

"Well, you have a housekeeper."

"I know, and I highly recommend it. I don't want Lexie fussing around the house when she could go to school or do something else. There are more important things in life than picking up the dry cleaning." Nick said.

"That sounds awful snobby." Brian laughed.

"Well, if I was married to some guy with our kind of money, I sure as hell wouldn't do the cooking and cleaning." Nick chuckled. "And I don't even have that much compared to Howie and AJ. It felt really good to give Cook, Marcus, and Anthony that back pay I owed them. Included a nice bonus, too."

"That's good of you."

"I owe them more than that."

"You tell them you're moving yet?"

"No, we haven't told anyone, except for CJ who is keeping mum."

"She's a good little secret keeper. I couldn't get my girls to keep a secret."

"She's had a lot of practice." Nick agreed. "I wish I could ask them to come with us. I doubt any of them would leave their families to move to Tampa, even if they have been with me for over 15 years."

"Well, you can always find new help."

"Yeah, but can I find good, loyal help?" Nick sighed, "But that's neither here nor there. Where were we?" Nick said, turning his chair back to the mixing board. They had to get a lot done this Sunday in order to leave early this week.

After showers, some toast, and coffee, Jake drove them back to the club. Although Jake was somewhat sure they had left it there, it was gone when they arrived. Lexie demanded to know if Jake was sure, but he confessed he wasn't.

"What am I going to do?" Lexie groaned from the inside of one of Nick's BMW.

"When they open, we'll call and asked if they had it towed."

"Towed? Why would someone tow a 2000 Ferrari Testarosa with the vanity plate "Carter 4" on it? It's not like they didn't know we were here last night? It's not like they didn't know which Carter it belonged to? God, how am I going to tell Nick it got stolen?!" Lexie moaned, holding her head. "If I have to hear the 'but it's a classic' speech, I may have to shoot myself."

"Let's call the police, then, report it stolen."

"It's registered to Nick, he'll know what happened before I get a chance to explain."

"Well, you better hurry up so they can find it."

"Find it? It's been chopped up into little pieces and shipped to Tijuana by now."

"Just call them, will you? If I have to listen to you whine about this another second, I may shoot you myself." Jake groaned.

Lexie called and was transferred nearly a dozen times before she got 1 of 14 impound yards in Los Angeles. Of course, none of them were open on Sunday. The phone rang in her hand when she hung up from another answering service.

"Hello?" She asked, seeing Nick's number on her phone.

"Hey, baby, feeling better?"

"Uh, huh." She nodded, not trusting herself to speak.

"Sounds like it. Hey, got some good news. Howie's letting us go early for the weekend."

"Really, great. So, what? Friday? Thursday?"

"No, Wednesday. Isn't that great!"

"Wednesday? You're going to be home Wednesday?" She croaked, her eyes wide as she looked over at Jake.

"Well, probably not until the afternoon. I think I'm flying commercial. AJ's going somewhere in Mexico with his plane." Nick smiled. "Think you could pick me up? I can't wait to see you. I've missed you so much."

"Uh. . .sure, I guess I could."

"Everything okay, Lex?"

"Oh, yeah, Nick, everything's fine." She said. "Jake and I are just out. . .getting a bite to eat."

"Oh, yeah? Well, you guys have fun. He going back soon?"

"I'm taking him to the airport tomorrow morning before I go to work." Lexie said.

"Okay, well, you kids have fun."

"Thanks, Nick." Lexie said with a roll of her eyes.

"I love you."

"Love you, too." She said, turning off the phone. "I am so dead."

In Orlando, Nick turned off the phone with a triumphant push of his thumb. Brian finally let out the roar he was holding in, "You're cruel. You are really, really cruel."

"I'll teach that little imp to lose one of my cars again." Nick laughed.

The Los Angeles Police Department had called him 20 minutes after they impounded it for its own safety. Lexie and her friends hadn't told the valet they would be leaving it there, and the club didn't want responsibility for it, so they had it impounded. He knew she'd find it by Monday night, meanwhile, he was going to see if she would confess or not.

"Lexie! Lexie! Lexie!" The front office receptionist called out as she ran across the concrete warehouse floor in high heel shoes, waving a couple of phone messages. "Oh, I'm so glad I caught you." She finished as she stumbled to a stop next to Lexie and cracked her gum.

"What is it?" Lexie asked, trying not to sound too condescending. Gina agreed to let Lexie have part of the morning off to try and track down Nick's car since the police weren't able to confirm if or when it might have been impounded. She was still hoping Monday morning that it had been impounded and not stolen. She drove Jake to the airport, and he wished her luck. She headed into the office to finish her phone calls.

"You got some phone calls." April smiled at Lexie and handed her the phone messages. "Some guy with Victoria Winslow's office. . .why would someone want to interview you? Is that what they want? Do you get to go to New York?"

"Shit, I forgot about that. . ." Lexie mumbled as she flipped through the messages. The producer must have called the office since she hadn't answered the phone at home. "Thanks, April."

Lexie headed off toward her office, but Gina fell quickly into step behind her. She leaned up against the doorframe, waiting for Lexie to get settled.

"Any luck?" Gina asked.

"No. I've got six more impound yards to call, and three are still looking and have to call me back. What am I going to do?" Lexie moaned.

"Ever think of telling him the truth?"

"You don't understand. I could lose CJ and he wouldn't take it as hard as losing one of his cars."

"Oh, be serious." Gina giggled.

"I am!" Lexie protested.

"Will CJ notice it's missing?"

"Oh, God, I hadn't even thought of that. It's parked next to last in the main garage." Lexie moaned, dropping her head into her hands. "I am so dead." The phone rang and Lexie picked it up, "Hello?"

"Lexie?!"

"Hey, CJ." She said, forcing cheer into her voice.

"I'm coming home tonight. Are you going to pick me up at grandma's or at school?"

"I'll get you at school, okay?"

"Good, because grandma is really mad at you." CJ giggled.

"And this is different from another day?" Lexie chuckled. "Hey, I talked to your Dad. He's coming home on Wednesday."

"Really! Yeah! I can't wait to see him!" CJ cheered.

"I'll pick him up at the airport then come get you at school Wednesday."

"Yeah!" CJ continued to cheer.

Lexie said goodbye to CJ and promised again to pick her up at school. She hung up the phone and looked up at Gina.

"You are so dead." Gina smiled.

Fate being what it was, it was the very last impound yard that had the car. She made arrangements to pick it up Tuesday after work. CJ didn't notice the missing car, but Cook, Anthony, and Marcus did. She told them she had it sent out to be detailed. Lexie knew they didn't believe her because Nick's detailer came to the house and he never left it anywhere. There was no way she was going to tell anyone the truth at this point. She was just happy she found it.

Nick called again that night, giving no hint that he knew exactly what was going on. CJ and Lexie had a quiet evening Monday, and Tuesday started out just how it should. Lexie was still happy she had found the car and still equally thrilled her body was feeling normal again after the weekend bender.

Gina followed her home at lunch and then drove back to the auction house, so she could drive Lexie to the impound yard after work. It was an uneventful trip, until after Lexie paid the fines and saw the car.

They had parked it under a tree, where leaves had fallen on it and were stuck to the metallic finish. She couldn't believe what the birds in the tree had done to it as well. She peeled off a few leaves, only to find that even the veins of the leaves were imprinted on the finish of the car.

"Oh, Lex, I'm so sorry." Gina said.

"I am so dead, G. Now I wish it had been stolen, he would have forgiven me that." Lexie groaned. "His flight is at 2:30 tomorrow and then I have to go pick up CJ and there is no way I can get it detailed and back into the garage before he gets home."

"There is always the truth." Gina smiled.

"No, there is no way I'm going through that." Lexie said, determined. There just has to be a way!

"So, he's not going to tell her he knows?" Leah giggled in Howie's arms.

"Nope. He wants to teach her a lesson." Howie giggled himself.

"She's going to kill him when she finds out." She smiled, snuggling as close as she could against his warm body.

"I know, but it's his problem now." Howie said, tightening his grip on her bare shoulders. "Besides, after the run in with AJ and everything, he needs a good laugh. I don't think she'll be too mad at him."

"I'm glad they settled it." Leah agreed. "I feel kind of sorry for him, as scared as he is about all of this."

"Shhh, now. Remember, AJ promised not to tell me." He said, kissing her temple.

"I know, I won't say anything." She nodded. "It was great for him and Brian to take the kids out tonight to AJ's."

"That was my idea." Howie smiled.

"And a good idea it was." She smiled, sitting up and looking down at him.

Making love as much as possible had become a favorite pastime for both of them. Howie would sneak home at lunch, and the increased intimacy had given them back something in their relationship they hadn't realized was missing. Another pregnancy was becoming just an afterthought, behind spending quality time together. Howie found himself more grounded and willing to walk away from work now. It was doing wonders for his stress levels as well. He realized how much he missed just talking to her about work, the kids, and their friends.

"I wonder when Nick and Lexie will have more children." Leah mused.

"I don't know. Hard to say." Howie shrugged.

"Does it still bother you?"

"Them? No, it really doesn't." Howie said. "What are you doing so far away?" He pouted.

She giggled, blushed, and moved back down into his arms. He was quick to roll her on her back and bury her under his weight. She let out a joyful squeal that he covered with his hand.

"Shhh, you're going to wake Caroline." He whispered with a smile.

"She's not here." Leah smiled, pushing his hand away. "She's out with her Uncle Nick. I can scream as loud as I want."

"Again?" Howie smiled.

"That's entirely up to you." She teased him.

Lexie called Victoria Winslow's producer, but by Wednesday morning they were still playing phone tag. CJ didn't get a chance to notice the Ferrari was parked in the garage and filthy.

Lexie's hands were ice cold and her heart was racing as she discreetly moved through LAX to pick up Nick at the gate. Yes, she was excited to see Nick, but she was also praying for more time.

His flight, late as usual, was just unloading as she walked up to it. She went to where the gate was, but didn't see him. She began to walk around as they began to unboard coach.

"Where is he?" she sighed, digging in her purse for her cell phone. Maybe he left a message.

"Boo!" he joked, standing right behind her. She jumped so hard, she dropped her phone.

"Shit, Nick!" she snapped, bending over to pick up the phone.

"Hmmm, not exactly the response I was looking for." He smiled, grinning ear to ear. He held open his arms, and she went into them, feeling his arms tighten in the embrace. "I've missed you so much." He groaned in her ear. She tightened her arms around him as well.

"I've missed you, too." She said, her voice surprising her with its sudden emotion.

Nick leaned back, cupped her face and gently brought his lips to her. His kiss was warm and endearing, with a slight hint of the promise of what their reunion held. It was all Lexie could do to keep from melting into his arms, but instead, she planted her hands on his waist to keep herself upright.

"Let's go." He whispered, his breath falling on her cheek.

Hand in hand they moved through LAX, turning a few heads but no one approached them. They picked up his one bag from luggage and worked their way through the crowds to the garage.

"You only have the one bag?" Lexie asked as he hefted it over his shoulder as they left the air-conditioned concourse.

"Yeah, Howie got me and B a hotel suite. They do the laundry."

"You're not staying with AJ?" She asked as they waited for an elevator to ride to the garage level where Lexie had parked the car.

"Naw, we got tired of each other." Nick said. They entered the elevator with about a dozen other people.

"You guys fight?"

"No, just too close of quarters. He's incredibly fussy." Nick said.

"Mom says he got that way since he had Alex." Lexie said.

"You talk to your mom lately?"

"No, not in a couple days. I've been really busy." She sighed.

"Really, doing what?"

Damn!

"With CJ and the party, work and. . .oh! Gosh, I totally forgot to even tell you." Lexie said with a snap of her fingers. "I can't believe it."

The elevator doors opened, and they headed out into the garage.

"What? Doesn't have to do with the car, does it?" He asked.

"No, no. Victoria Winslow's producer called me this weekend after the trial. Wants to interview me." She said, pulling the keys to the black 4-door BMW. The door locks popped, the trunk opened, and the car started.

"What?! You!? Wait a second, how could you forget to tell me that?" he said, hefting his bag into the trunk.

"Uh. . .excuse me?" A third voice cut in. Nick and Lexie turned to the woman standing there. "I'm sorry, I don't mean to interrupt, but. . .uh. . .Nick. . .could I have an autograph?" She asked politely, holding out a pen and paper to him.

"Oh, sure." He smiled, taking her pen and paper. "What's your name?"

"Wendy. Wendy Chen." She smiled for him.

"Have you met my wife? This is Lexie." He said, bowing his head over the paper with the pen. The women shook hands and said hello.

"There you go." He said, handing everything back to her.

"Great, thanks!" she beamed. "So, is there really going to be a new album?"

"Yep, just home on a break from recording." He said.

"Do you have a title? When's it coming out?" she asked.

"Don't have those details settled yet." He said, "But I'm sure you'll hear about it."

"The fan club here in L.A. is keeping everyone up to date." Lexie said, digging through her purse. She handed the fan a business card. "That's the phone number and email. Drop Karen or Niki a line."

"I sure will! Thanks! I can't wait!" Wendy said excitedly. "Thanks again, Nick. Thank you, Lexie."

Nick looked over at Lexie, as the fan left with her new treasure.

"Tell me again how you got an interview with Victoria Winslow?" He smiled, reaching over and effortlessly closing the trunk.

Nick drove out of the airport garage and made his way through the city to CJ's school. Lexie told him about her phone call with Victoria Winslow's producer, Mark Nelson, and how they wanted to discuss the trial. Lexie seemed fine as she discussed the potential interview, but he wondered when she was going to tell him about the car.

When they arrived at the school, Nick parked the car, and they walked into the school office to sign in. They headed for the playground to find CJ's class that was out for recess. CJ spotted them first and came running up to them. She threw herself into his arms and, squealed with delight. Nick held her close and spun her around, each of them sharing a quick kiss.

"You miss your old Dad?" He asked her as she hugged him tightly.

"Yes, I did!" She said as she leaned away from him and stuck out her tongue. "Can we go home now? I've only got one more class? I don't have to go, do I? Are we going to move to Tampa now?"

"Hang on!" Nick laughed, setting her down. "Yes, we can go now, but I have to check you out of school. No, we aren't moving yet. Have you and Lexie found a house yet?"

"No, they've all been kind of ugly and old." CJ sighed, looking up at Lexie. Lexie nodded in agreement.

"Well, you keep looking." He stood up and tapped her nose. "Let's go sign you out of school."

"Yeah!" CJ cheered, running ahead of them.

Nick drove CJ and Lexie home, but they stopped several times for errands. Lexie claimed she hadn't had time earlier and they just had to be done today. It was nearly two hours later before they actually even started heading home. On that final leg home, Nick noticed Lexie constantly checking her watch. He simply reached over and took her hand.

"Good to have you home, Mr. Carter." The guard at the gate said, letting them pass with a wave.

"So, what are we going to do tonight?" Nick asked as he drove up the winding hills to the house.

"You guys are going to do a lot of kissing." CJ groaned, throwing herself across the backseat.

"Not until you go to bed." Nick teased her.

"Oh, yeah, right." She giggled.

"You have homework?"

"Yes, but can I stay home from school tomorrow? " She whined.

"No, I don't think so." Nick said, "But I'll help with your homework if you like."

"Oh, okay."

"You got to go to work?" Nick asked Lexie.

"Yes, but I'm about caught up. I might be able to leave early."

"That's okay. I could use the sleep myself." He smiled as they drove through the housing development.

Nick pulled up to the corner of the street they lived on and an old beater of a truck came roaring down the street at them. The occupants, two rather large laborers, laid on the horn and waved as they drove past.

"Someone you know?" Nick asked innocently.

"No." She answered without hesitation, but inside she was praying. God, please let that mean they got done with the Ferrari.

Bobby and Steve, from the auction house, had finished the Ferrari, and Nick pretended that he didn't notice how perfectly clean it was when he pulled into the garage two spots down from it. They simply unloaded his luggage and headed inside.

"You hungry?" Lexie asked Nick as CJ ran upstairs to change out of her uniform.

"Starved." He turned and put an arm around her waist, pulling her close and kissing her. "And I know what's on the menu." He murmured.

"Well, I know how much you like Cook's dumplings." She smiled. "I had her make us some."

"She here?"

"No, I sent her home early." Lexie smiled as Nick kissed her again more passionately.

"I thought you guys were gonna wait." CJ groaned from the top of the stairs.

"Okay, okay! You got your homework out?" He asked as he let go of Lexie.

"No! I want to play a little, can I, Dad?" She said with a stomp of her foot.

"If you ask nice and stop that foot thing you got going on these days." He warned.

"Please?"

"Please, what?"

"Please, can I play a little while before I do my homework?"

"Yes, you may." Nick smiled. She ran off, down the hall down the back stairs and out to the playground with a slam of the back door.

"Good Lord!" He laughed. "She been giving you that much trouble?"

"No, she's been fine. Really." She reassured him. "Give me that so I can clean it up, and why don't you go play with her." She reached for his bag.

"I'd rather play with you, little girl." He teased, pulling her back into his arms and burying his face into her neck. "I have missed you so much." He groaned, pressing his body into hers.

"I've missed you, too." She agreed, letting herself melt into his arms, his bag forgotten on the floor. They stumbled back down the hallway towards the garage and into the laundry room to the left. Once inside, he kicked the door shut and pulled her completely into his arms. She eagerly lifted her legs around his waist, and he hoisted her on top of the washing machine. He ground into her, and she gasped and moaned at the intimacy she had missed.

"We'd better stop." Lexie panted, pushing him away.

"I don't want to stop." He said, moving back in.

"I don't either, but CJ is out there." She groaned as his lips found her tender neck again. "Nick, please." He stopped and looked into her face. She captured his face in her hands and kissed him gently. "Later, I promise."

It was not a quiet evening home. The phone rang constantly all through dinner. When Nick and CJ went upstairs to do her homework, Lexie fielded all of the calls.

"Just checking to see if everything is alright." Howie chuckled on the phone.

"It's great, Dad. Thanks for letting him come home early."

"Well, he's been no use to me."

"Why? What happened?"

"Maybe I'd better let him tell you. . ."

"Dad. . ."

"It really isn't my place. . ."

"Since when?"

"Oh, it's nothing really. He and AJ had a few scrapes. Nothing we didn't see in the early days." Howie sighed.

"Oh, that. He said AJ was being too fussy. They weren't arguing over me, were they?"

"No, no! Strictly the album." Howie said quickly, wanting her to know it wasn't about her.

"Hey, can I talk to Mom?" Lexie asked. She heard Howie chuckle over the phone.

"I'll go get her." He smiled, getting out of the desk chair in his den.

Lexie and her mom talked until after CJ finished her homework and Nick put her to bed.

"You ready to come to bed?" Nick whispered as he leaned into the den.

"Just a sec." Lexie said, then returned to her mom.

"You need to go?" Leah asked.

"Yeah." Lexie smiled.

"I understand. It's pretty late here." Leah said.

"What are you two doing up?" Lexie asked. "Oh, never mind. I don't want to know."

Nick was in the shower when Lexie got upstairs. She quickly undressed and joined him. He was all over her before she even stepped all the way inside. Her laughter turned to moans as he pressed her against the moist tiles. His body melted into hers and he took her. He chanted her name, and he lost complete control as she clawed at his body, begging for more. He prayed this ecstasy would never end.

"How did I ever leave you?" He panted as he surged on. "God, I've missed you so much."

The warm water cascaded down both of their bodies as he held her to the wall, her legs around his waist. She could feel each tile pressed into her back, but she didn't care. Nothing could distract her from the feel of him moving within her.

"Please, Nick, please don't stop." She cried out feeling her body react to his long absence. "I've missed you, too."

Their lovemaking consumed them as they struggled to completely satisfy themselves and each other. They came in a fever-heightened state, dropping to the floor of the large shower gasping for breaths.

"I don't want to leave you." He whispered. The water was running down his face, keeping his hair slicked back.

Tears suddenly poured from her, and she buried her face into his wet chest. She had missed him so much, and she couldn't pretend to be brave and strong another minute. She didn't have to, because he was really here.

Nick helped her from the shower, and she was giggling by the time he had the water off and was teasing her with a towel. He wrapped her up and pulled her into his arms and kissed her with a smile.

"I can't tell you how much I've missed you."

"I know. Trust me, I know." She smiled up at him. "I can't believe you're really here."

Her hands trailed down his shoulders and down his arms.

"Let's go in the bedroom. We've got so much to talk about." He smiled.

"I know!" she laughed.

They talked for hours, like two best friends playing catch up, sitting cross-legged on the settee and talking until the sun was almost up. Reluctantly, they went to bed and settled in for the last couple hours of the morning, cuddled in each other's arms.

"Oh my freakin' God! It's Nick Carter!" Norma whispered, leaning across the podium toward Lexie. She looked up and smiled as he walked across the warehouse toward her. "Damn, he's even better looking in person." Norma added.

"That ain't Nick Carter, that's my date." Lexie chuckled, putting her pens away.

"Well, he sure looks like Nick Carter." Norma smiled.

"I know, he gets that all the time." Lexie smiled back, leaving Norma to meet him half way. Nick took her into his arms and kissed her.

"Ready for lunch?" he smiled.

"Yep, you have perfect timing."

"So I've been told." He grinned.

"Come on, I'll introduce you around."

Lexie took Nick all around the warehouse and introduced him. He met her crew and even the two guys he remembered leaving the house the night before; obviously the two guys who detailed the Ferrari. They seemed rather smug to Nick, but he didn't let on he had any idea anything was up. The Ferrari was the one thing she never confessed during their midnight talk last night.

They had lunch at a local deli and then he headed home to an empty house. Cook had gone shopping, and it still wasn't time to pick up CJ. He changed into some swim trunks and lazily wasted the afternoon in the pool. Cook returned in time to see him get out and then chastise him for dripping water through the house because he forgot to get towels.

The phone rang by the bed and he threw his trunks in the bathroom, before falling naked across the bed to answer it.

"Hello?"

"You are home."

"Hello, Mother." He sighed.

"I had to find out from Howie that you had left Orlando."

"Sorry."

"Are you coming by to see me?"

"I guess. I. . ."

"Good, I'll have dinner for you and CJ, then."

"Well, Lexie. . ."

Click.

"Bitch." He muttered as he looked at the receiver and then hung up the phone. He dialed Lexie's cell phone, because he figured she would on her way to pick up CJ.

"Hello?"

"Hey, baby."

"Hey. What's up?" She asked.

"Mom wants us to have dinner over there."

"I'm sure you and CJ will have a wonderful time."

"You're invited."

"You're funny."

"But you are coming, aren't you?"

"Of course, and miss a chance to piss her off?"

"I wish you two got along."

"You don't even get along." Lexie chuckled. "Same story, Nick, and its never going to change. I can't stop being AJ's daughter, and I'm not going to stop being in love with you."

"I'm sorry." He muttered.

"It's not your fault. It's not my fault. It's her fault for making the situation unbearable. For your and CJ's sake, I'll behave."

"I know, and I love you for that."

"So, what have you been doing all day?"

"Just swimming."

"You check the email for the real estate agent? She sends me something almost everyday."

"No, I've just been relaxing."

"Well, that's good. I'm glad. I'm about leave here, get CJ, and come home. You need anything?"

"Nope." He smiled, rolling to his back. "I'm naked, though."

Nick heard Lexie laugh aloud. "Well, I'm sure that's a sight to see."

"I like to think so." He laughed back.

"I should be there in an hour or so. Be dressed, okay?"

"If I must." He sighed dramatically.

Lexie and CJ were home in an hour, and Nick sat with CJ as she did her homework while Lexie took a shower and changed for dinner. He helped CJ pick out something clean and brushed out her golden locks, braiding them neatly down her back.

"Dad?"

"Hmm?" he hummed, putting the last clip in her hair as she did her homework.

"I'm glad you're home." She said softly. He slipped his arms around her and held her close.

"I'm glad to be home, sweetheart."

"Can we do something while you're home?" She asked, nestled in his embrace.

"Like what?"

"I don't know, just something." She shrugged.

"We used to go to San Diego and see the whales." He suggested. "We could take a short flight down there. . ."

"Can we take the Prowler?"

"That's a long drive for that old car. Besides, I don't think Lexie can spare too much time away from work."

"Oh." She shrugged. "Can't just you and me go?"

"We can't leave Lexie out."

"You said once that you would always be there for me."

"I am." He said, straightening up. "I'll always be here for you, CJ, but Lexie is a part of our family now."

"I know." She shrugged.

"What's going on?" he asked her. "Is something wrong?"

"Can I stay home tonight? Will Cook stay?"

"Cook is already gone for the day. Don't you want to go to Grandma's tonight?" CJ was suspiously quiet. "What's going on? C, you can tell me anything, you know that."

"Grandma doesn't like Lexie very much." She said quietly.

Nick let out the breath he had been holding. "Has Grandma said anything to you?"

"No, not really."

"But you've heard some things."

"Yeah. They had a big fight at your party, and when I stay over there she says some things to other people." CJ said quietly. "Grandma and Aunt Jill had a big fight once, and Uncle Aaron said he didn't want to hear it from either one of them. Even Grandma and Aunt BJ fight about it."

"Honey, I'm sorry you had to hear all that." Nick sighed, realizing he would have to confront his mother about this. "I guess I can't lie and tell you they do like each other, because you kind of already know they don't. Lexie doesn't try to fight with Grandma, but some times Grandma says things that aren't very nice and Lexie just gets angry at her. I don't think either one of them should argue like they do, but unfortunately I can't tell either one of them what to do."

"What are we going to do?" CJ asked, sounding so desperate for some kind of resolution.

"You know, I love them both the best I know how and hope that someday they will get along." Nick sighed. "I know it's hard, but you love your Grandma, right? And you love Lexie, right?"

CJ nodded "yes" to both of his questions.

"Well, I know they both love you and so if you keep loving them, then they will learn to love each other because you will have taught them how."

"You think so?"

"I sure pray so." He smiled. "Just try not to let Grandma make you feel bad about liking Lexie."

"I know."

"Does Lexie say bad things about Grandma?"

"No, not really."

"But you know she's thinking them?"

"Yeah." CJ sighed.

"Well, there isn't anything we can do about what Lexie is thinking." Nick smiled, hugging CJ. "There isn't anything anyone can do about what a woman is thinking."

"Daddy!" She giggled against his chest. She pushed away slightly and looked up into his face. "Can we still go do something?"

"Just you and me? Yeah, I think so." He smiled.

"Can we have a date and go to the movies tomorrow night? It's Friday!" she smiled.

"You and me? You bet." He smiled back.

"You think Lexie will be mad?"

"Naw, she'll probably be reading some book." He shrugged, hoping that Lexie would understand.

Lexie more than understood, she encouraged it and was grateful for the opportunity to have some time alone. She had so much to catch up on from finding a new house to trying to get hold of Victoria Winslow's producer, with whom she was still playing phone tag. He left his home number at the office and told her to call him Friday evening when he would be at home.

Driving over to Nick's mother's house, Lexie couldn't help but notice the contrast in her own family life. As dysfunctional as other people thought her childhood was, she never had to dress for dinner at her parents' house, but here she was in suit with heels just going over for dinner.

Luckily for them, everyone was there to see Nick; Aaron, Jill, his sisters, and all of the grandkids that were in town. Everyone settled down to what was panning out to be a pleasant evening. During dessert, Aaron called out for everyone's attention. He stood up with the brightest smile Lexie had ever seen on his face, and Jill was glowing as well. . .glowing? Was it?

"Well, everyone, we have an announcement." He beamed. "Jill and I are pregnant. We're having a baby."

The house erupted with laughter and good cheer, with everyone hugging and congratulating them. Once dessert was over, Jill was quick to pull Lexie outside onto one of the many verandas overlooking the gardens.

"I can't believe it was so easy." Jill giggled in Lexie's ear as she hugged her.

"I'm so happy for you, Jill." Lexie smiled, tears brimming in her eyes. She tried to blink them away before Jill saw them, but her sister-in-law pulled her back into her arms.

"Your time will come, I promise." She whispered, and Lexie lost control of a little of the emotion that was caught in her throat.

"Thank you, Jillie." She whispered. She pushed herself out of Jill's arms, and Jill wiped her cheeks. "So, what are you hoping for?" Lexie asked with a smile.

"Anything!" Jill laughed.

"That's a good answer, Mom." Jane laughed, coming outside and hugging her mom's waist. "But we want a boy."

"You do, huh?" Lexie laughed.

"One as handsome as my Dad." Jane beamed.

"I don't know if the world is ready for any more of these Carter men." Lexie laughed.

"You two just don't want to share." Lexie heard Nick giggle behind her. He joined them outside, slipping his arms around Lexie's waist and resting his head on her shoulder to talk to Jill and Jane.

"I know I don't." Jill laughed.

"I'm not." Lexie agreed, turning her face to share a kiss with him. Aaron joined them, hugging and kissing both of his girls.

"You know where CJ is?" Aaron asked Jane.

"She's in the game room with Bobbie and Stephanie." Jane said, of BJ's two girls.

"Why don't you go play with them?" He suggested.

"Uh oh, the grown ups want to talk." Jane said with a roll of her eyes as she left the group.

"This is great news. You still going on that vacation?" Nick asked.

"Hell, yeah!" Jill laughed, "Before I get too huge to travel. Jane can still stay with you when she gets back, right, Lexie?"

"No problem." Lexie agreed.

"She doesn't want to spend those last two weeks were in Malta with Grandmother, and BJ and Angel live too far to ask them to drive into town every day to take her to school."

"I know, and it's no problem." Lexie smiled.

"When are you heading back?" Aaron asked Nick.

"Way too soon." Nick sighed.

"Can you kids please come in here so we can finish dessert?" Nick's mother asked from the French doors.

"Good God, I don't think I can eat another bite." Aaron groaned once Jane was out of earshot.

Everyone happily agreed, leaving the night air to go inside and settle back down.

Talk around the table was happy and all about babies. Nick was scared to death that Lexie wouldn't handle it every well. It was too soon after the trial and her public confession of her feelings to press her about wanting to try again. That topic and the Ferrari were the only two things they hadn't touched since he had been home.

"So, little CJ, you want to spend the weekend with your grandma?" Jane asked from her place at the head of the table.

"I can't, grandma, I've got a date!" CJ announced proudly.

"A date?!" Aaron asked with a laugh.

"Yeah, me and my Dad are going out and we're going to see a movie and have ice cream." CJ smiled. Everyone at the table laughed at CJ's announcement.

"You can't go on a date with your Dad!" Jane protested. "You have to have a boyfriend."

"I don't want a boyfriend!" CJ declared.

"That's my girl." Nick smiled, causing more adult laughter.

"What are you going to be doing?" BJ asked Lexie.

"I'll be at home, darning socks." Lexie joked.

"Just like a proper wife." BJ's husband, Paul, joked.

"There's nothing proper about her." Jane muttered.

"Mother." Nick warned.

"I've got some research projects going on, including the one about the ring I got Nick for his birthday." Lexie continued on with her conversation, ignoring Nick and Jane.

"It's really beautiful." Jill added.

"How far have you gotten?" Paul asked.

"Well, outside of the family tale of the owners mysteriously disappearing. . ." Lexie began, telling the whole story, weaving the tale in the hope that everyone would be diverted from Jane's comments and Nick's brewing anger.

"That's unbelievable." Paul smiled from across the table.

"I know, that's why we're still working on it." Lexie smiled back, thankful for his ever-present kindness. Nick's hand had slipped over hers, in view of everyone, and he squeezed some reassurance into her. She thought she would choke on her words as she clung to his hand.

"So, big plans for you Friday night." Paul teased her, and she smiled with a shrug.

"If she stays home." Jane added.

"That's enough!" Nick said, getting to his feet.

"Nick, no!" Lexie insisted, trying to get him to sit back down.

"Lexie, get CJ and meet me at the car." He said sternly.

"Daddy, don't!" CJ protested.

"Now!" He snapped. "Go to the car with Lexie, CJ. We'll talk about this later. I need to talk to my mother."

"CJ, come on." Lexie stood and held out her hand. CJ started crying and scrambled out of her chair next to her grandmother. She ran to Lexie and grabbed her hand before they left together.

"Now look what you've done." Jane declared.

"Would you like to do this in public or private?"

"I'm sure that whatever you have to say can be said in front of the family, Nickolas."

"CJ will not becoming to visit you until I return from Orlando."

"What?!" Jane gasped.

"Nick. . ." Aaron began.

"I had the most heart-wrenching talk with her tonight about how much you hate Lexie AND you go through no lengths to disguise it. She hears what you say about my wife. . ." Nick began. "I won't allow you to hurt either one of them anymore."

"Nickolas! You can't just stop me from seeing my grandchild!" Jane declared.

"Once we move to Tampa, you'll be lucky if you ever see her again. " Nick yelled back, turning his back on her and heading for the door. "Don't call my house again!"

Nick was furious when he reached the car. He dropped into the driver's seat and raced out of the driveway.

"I'm so sorry, Nick." Lexie stammered her apology.

"It's not your fault." He said sharply.

"It's all my fault! I shouldn't have said anything! Stop, Daddy!" CJ cried from the back, pounding on the back of his seat. "I want to go back! I don't want Grandma to be mad at me! Daddy, stop! Go back!"

"No, CJ! We're going home!" Nick snapped, refusing to yield to her sobs.

When they pulled into the garage, CJ ran from the car and up to her room. Lexie grabbed Nick's arm as he opened the car door and pulled him back into his seat.

"Nick, what's going on? What's gotten into you?" Lexie asked.

"I just got tired of her fucking shit!" He yelled.

"Nick, she does that all the time. . ."

"That doesn't make it right, Lexie. Don't let anyone treat you like that, not even my mother. God, I'm just sorry I've put you through it." He groaned.

"I've held my own with your mother."

"Not according to Brian."

"Brian?! Brian?! What did he tell you?!" She demanded.

"He told me what you said the night of the party, when you drove him to the beach after me and Fatima left."

"He said he wouldn't say anything. . ." Lexie gasped.

"He's my best friend, Lexie, and he cares deeply about you. You're my wife, and I have the right to know things like that."

"She's your mother!" Lexie said.

"I don't care about that bitch, I haven't for years. She robbed me blind as a kid and just about fucked me up for life. If I hadn't broken away from her 30 years ago, I'd still be messed up, and now she's doing it to CJ and to you!" Nick's voice rose with his anger and frustration. His body settled heavily into the leather seat. He finally let go of the steering wheel to let his hands fall into his lap. He began twisting his wedding ring around his finger. "I only kept a relationship with her because of CJ. I hadn't even talked to her until CJ was born. You two are the most important people in my life."

"Nick, I tried. . ."

"I know you did, and I appreciate it. You were right this morning. Nothing is going to make her happy, so I'm not even going to bother trying anymore." He sighed. "Besides, it doesn't even matter. I told them about Tampa."

"You what?!" She gasped.

"I got pissed off. . ."

"That was obvious, but that doesn't give you the right to blab our business all over the place!" She snapped, finally getting out of the car. Nick sighed again and got out of the car as well, following her inside.

"I'm sorry." He said, following her up the stairs. "Lexie, listen to me." He took hold of her arm and stopped her halfway to their bedroom. She raised her hand to rub her eyes and sigh.

"Things got out of hand, that's all." His voice was quietly apologizing to her as he tried to explain.

"I know. I'm sorry, too." She said, lifting her eyes to his. He leaned in and kissed her quickly. "Your tough audience is down the hall. You better go talk to CJ." Lexie finally said.

"Wait up for me?" He asked gently.

"Yes." She agreed. He gently caressed her cheek with her fingertips. She turned and entered their bedroom, and she heard his footsteps head down the hall to CJ's room. She lifted her hand to trace the trail of his touch on her face.

"CJ?" Nick asked after knocking on her door softly.

"Leave me alone!" Came her muffled cry. Nick opened the door and headed inside to find CJ face down in her pillows.

"CJ, we have to talk." He told her, moving a chair next to her frilly canopied bed. It's pinkness swallowing her whole. He smiled to himself as the fleeting memory of shopping trip when they had picked it out came to mind.

"I don't want to talk to you!"

"I know. No one does right now." He sighed, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees. He rubbed his eyes and forced himself to continue.

"I shouldn't have said anything!" CJ cried.

"CJ, please. I already knew Grandma and Lexie didn't get along. I asked them both to behave, and they have tried because they love us both very much." Nick began, but he didn't know how to finish. How could he tell her that he believed she was probably better off without her beloved grandmother? How could he tell her that he had despised the woman for years?

"I don't want to see anyone!"

"You're not breaking our date, are you?" He asked. She looked up from her pillows and over at him.

"No." she sniffled.

"I'm glad." He smiled. "I'm sorry this has happened, CJ. I really am."

"I know." She agreed, sitting up and wiping her eyes with the back of her hands. "I know Grandma says bad things about Lexie. I wish she wouldn't."

"I know." Nick nodded.

"I really love Lexie."

"I know you do, honey. It'll be okay." He reassured her. CJ climbed off the bed and into his arms, snuggling into his tight embrace.

"I just miss you, Daddy. I miss when it was just you and me."

"I miss it, too, sometimes, but I love Lexie and I wouldn't trade this time for anything in the world."

"When can we move to Tampa?"

"Soon, I promise."

"Lexie?" Nick asked, entering the dimly lit room.

"I'm out here." Her voice came from the balcony.

He joined her and found her dressed in her robe ready for bed. He put his arms around her and kissed her.

"How did it go?"

"She's torn up. Torn loyalties. Right now, she doesn't want to see Mother."

"I guess that makes three of us." Lexie sighed. "I wish it didn't have to be like this."

"Me, either." Nick agreed, "But she's the one who laid down the terms."

"What did you say when you left?"

"That she wasn't to call the house or see CJ until I get back."

"All of that, Nick? Are you sure?" Lexie gasped.

"Yes. I've warned her before. . ." He stopped speaking when he was interrupted by the phone. He went inside the bedroom to answer it then sat down to talk to whoever was on the other end.

Lexie stayed outside until he was done. He hung up and headed into the bathroom to get ready for bed. Lexie closed up the French doors when she saw that he was finished and got into bed to wait for him.

"Aaron?" She asked as he shut the lights in the bathroom and came to bed. He gave his hair one final twist to keep it out of his way while he slept, turned off the bedroom lamp and settled into bed.

"Yeah. He's just trying to keep the peace."

"He and Jill fight with your mother all the time."

"He doesn't despise her like I do." Nick said. "Lex, I hadn't spoken to her for years until CJ was born and even then she contacted me."

"I know." Lexie said quietly.

"Mom and Aaron, they have a different relationship. I don't know, maybe because I was the oldest and the most successful, I made an easier target."

"You guys are family."

"I know, and me and the other kids are close, it's just her. It's been worse since Dad died. It's like she's out of control now."

"I'm sorry, Nick."

"Not all of us had great parents." He sighed.

"Ditto." She sighed with him. "At least I got some good ones at one point."

"Amen to that." He smiled in the dark.

"I didn't check the email tonight, you check it at all?"

"No, why?"

"See if that real estate agent found anything yet."

"Ready to move back to Florida?"

"I'm ready to move back home."

Nick heard Lexie's squeal all the way upstairs. He only hoped the neighbors hadn't heard it, too. He was still in bed, trying to catch his breath after their early morning love making. He always loved it when she woke him like that, her body and her love covering him like a blanket. Now she was squealing, and he wasn't even in the room.

Suddenly, the bedroom door flew open, and he sat straight up in bed.

"It's perfect, Nick! It's perfect!" She laughed, running and jumping on the bed. He scrambled to keep himself covered in case CJ walked in. She landed breathlessly next to him, her tiny tee-shirt and shorts barely covering her still sleep-warmed body. "It's the perfect house, Nick. It has plenty of bedrooms, it has a boat launch, beach rights, a pool and pool house AND a guesthouse. It's got the most beautiful light oak floors and huge windows and tons of natural lights. It's perfect, Nick, can we buy it, can we?!"

"I don't know. . ." He stammered.

"It's in Tampa, but that's only an hour or so from Orlando. Please, please, please, please, please, please. . ." She begged.

"Honey, I. . ." He continued to stammer.

"What's going on?" CJ asked, rubbing her eyes as she came into their bedroom.

"It's the perfect house, CJ!" Lexie said eagerly.

"It has the boat thing?"

"Yes, a boat launch, beach rights, a pool, pool house, guest house, and floor-to-ceiling windows. . ."

"Wow." CJ's blue eyes grew big as Lexie jumped off the bed and ran to her.

"Let's go see it, you wanna see it? Nick! Get dressed!" She yelled, as she ran out of the room with CJ. Nick blinked his eyes and then looked at the alarm clock as it went off.

What the hell just happened?

The house was deliriously perfect, according to Lexie, and CJ was pretty impressed, too. Nick had to agree that was really very nice. It was bright and airy, very much what they wanted, and it seemed to hold the promise of capturing more of their essence in it. This L.A. house still had too much of a bachelor/single dad vibe to it.

Lexie was on the phone instantly and made an appointment to see it on Saturday, making Nick fly back a couple days early. Nothing could contain her happiness as she showered and got ready for work. She couldn't stop talking about it, and started to get CJ pretty excited about it, too. By the time she left, even Nick was excited to see it. She gave him a list of chores, so they could fly out that evening to see it in the morning.

Saying Lexie was happy, was an understatement. She was floating the rest of the day, but her joyful mood suddenly evaporated into a jumble of emotions that collided in her chest when she was told Marty Portlowe, the private investigator, was on the phone.

"Hey, honey." He laughed in the phone.

"Hi, Marty. What's up?" She asked, trying to sound casual.

"I got that info for you. About that James woman, the little girl's mother."

Oh God!

"She's living in New York, and not very well. I got some pictures, it's a dump. She's got cancer all right and has only a few months to live, according to her medical records. I don't know what money she's living off of because she's not getting welfare or anything. She's not getting any child support for that kid, either. His name is Scott Thomas James, and no father is listed on the birth certificate."

"Any idea who the father is?"

"None. Doesn't even say in her lawyer's files."

"Can't the state make her tell them? Especially since she's dying?"

"No. I guess the kid will just go into foster care. He's four now. He'll be five next January. January 9th."

"Good God." Lexie sighed.

"What?"

"That's my father's birthday." She said. "AJ's birthday."

"Wow." Marty said.

"What about her family? Her parents, siblings. . .?"

"No clue. Christine James is not her real name."

"It's not? Is it professional or something?"

"As far as I can tell, it's the only one she's ever used."

"I wonder if Nick knew."

"Couldn't tell ya' that, hon."

"I know, I know. So, you have her address and everything, right?"

"Yeah."

"Good. Can you messenger it over to the auction house? I don't want it going to the house. Anything else?"

"Not really. She's worked as a model her adult life, was modeling when she hooked up with your. . .er...the kid's father and then she left him, went back to New York to be with this guy. . ."

"What?! What guy?"

"No idea."

"Any clue why she left in the first place? Left Nick in California?"

"I can only guess she went to be with that other guy."

"Could he be boy's father?"

"Naw. It didn't last long with them. Only a couple months." Marty said. "Then she did kinda drop out of the scene."

"God, I wish I knew why she left." Lexie groaned.

"Well. . ."

"What? You know something?"

"I don't know if this means anything. . ."

"Tell me! What?!"

"She had a procedure, about a month after leaving."

"A procedure? An abortion?"

"Yeah."

"Oh my god, was it Nick's child?"

"I don't know, I don't know that! According to my sources, he and her weren't too close after the girl was born. They had separate rooms. Maybe it was some other guy's and that's why she left. Maybe he did something. . ."

"No, Nick would never force a woman." Lexie said sharply.

"I didn't mean that. Maybe there was still something between the two of them, who knows?"

"If she aborted Nick's child, he would never forgive her. Oh my god." She groaned, dropping her head into her hands.

"Honey, I don't have much else. I'll send the file over to you, okay? You want me to keep digging?"

"Yes! Yes! I have to find out who the boy's father is!" Lexie's head snapped up. "You keep looking and I'll send payment tonight to cover your fees."

"Girlie, don't worry about that right now. Let me get some more stuff. . ."

"Please, Marty, I'm counting on you." She pleaded.

Christine might have aborted Nick's child.

The thought disturbed Lexie to no end. If it were true, what would she do if Nick ever found out? What if the child wasn't Nick's? What if she was having an affair while she was still in California? Somehow though, deep inside, Lexie knew that probably wasn't the case. The way Nick described her, she was too disturbed to cheat on him and be careful enough that he wouldn't find out. Then again, maybe Nick knew all along. That disturbed her even further.

Perhaps she loved him too much to see what might have actually happened between Nick and Christine. Maybe Nick was lying to her for some reason. . .no, that was ridiculous. Nick wouldn't lie to her. She would know. Nick had told her he never really loved Christine and their relationship was merely "comfortable". Lexie had always guessed that it hadn't been enough for Christine, so she left him. Lexie just couldn't rationalize why she left CJ behind as well. Relationships between men and women don't work out, but seldom did the mother leave behind the children. Fathers, yes. Lexie knew that one by heart. Howie Dorough and Nick Carter had taught her that not all fathers leave.

With a groan, she leaned over the steering wheel as she waited for the red light to change. She was on her way to pick up CJ, and the file that Marty sent her was locked securely in her desk. She turned and stared at the phone sitting on the seat next to her. She wished she had someone to talk to, someone to call, but there wasn't anyone who would understand. No one would understand what she was doing or the feelings inside her that were driving her to seek out Christine and to make some kind of resolution. Staring at the face of the insanity herself, she barely understood it.

The light changed, and the gentle honk behind her startled her out of her daydream. She took her foot off the brake, put the car in gear and headed through the intersection.

Nick helped CJ into some casual clothes and then into bed. She had been through this enough times to just go to sleep and her Dad would carry her to the airplane and she'd wake up in Orlando. Red eyes were like that. The excitement of the new house and sudden trip to Orlando pushed aside any thoughts of Nick and CJ's "date". Lexie had joked that it was nice of CJ not to be upset because her dad "stood her up." Nick tucked her in with a story and a kiss then headed down to the den where Lexie was answering emails. In the dim light of the room, the screen bounced an eerie light off of her dusky skin.

"You reading it or trying to stare holes into it?" He teased lightly as he came to sit on the edge of the desk next to her.

"Oh! It's just a dissertation from Aria, like always. I was going to just tell her I'd call her when I got there." She said, typing and sending the email.

"Baby, are you okay?" He asked, his voice thick with concern.

"I'm fine, just a little tired, that's all." She smiled as she logged the computer off.

"You want to go raid the 'fridge? You didn't eat dinner."

"No, I'm not hungry."

"I don't like it when you don't eat."

"I know, but I'm fine. . .okay, I'll go have a sandwich, okay?" She chuckled, getting to her feet and taking both of his hands. "And I'll eat it just for you."

He pulled her close and kissed her.

"Are you having second thoughts about Tampa?"

"Hell, no!" She laughed. "I really am just tired. I think it's the late nights with you lately."

"Well, we have a little time before our midnight flight." He smiled, pulling her into his arms.

"What about my sandwich?" She mused.

"I have something you could eat." He smiled then laughed at her groan of disbelief.

A hired driver took them to the airport, and they moved through LAX quite easily. Nick carried CJ onto the plane and strapped her into the window seat, Lexie took the middle one and he took the aisle. After a couple of drinks, Nick relaxed and they both fell asleep; tired from a long week and a quick round of lovemaking waiting for midnight to come.

Morning was dawning in Orlando when they landed. Weather had forced a layover in Dallas, but they still arrived in plenty of time. Leah and Howie were on the tarmac with vans to pick them up, and nothing was going to stop Lexie's squeal as she ran from the plane into Howie's arms.

"I can't believe you guys are moving back." He smiled, holding her tightly.

"I know, I know. I'm sorry I didn't tell you myself, but we just found a house and Nick had to make all the phone calls yesterday when I was at work."

"I can't tell you how much this means to me." He whispered into her ear as he drew her in for another hug.

"I've missed you so much, Dad." She smiled, pressing her lips against his lightly bearded jaw.

"Grandpa, Grandpa, Grandpa!" CJ said, jumping up and down next to them. They stood apart, and CJ held up her arms. Howie was quick to snatch her up, but stumbled a little under her weight.

"Good grief, CJ, you must have gained 10 pounds and a whole two inches since the wedding!" Howie exclaimed.

"I have not!" She protested as he put her down.

Lexie moved from her dad to her mom as the men greeted each other. Gathering bags, they loaded up and headed toward Tampa in one van while their luggage went to Howie and Leah's house in another.

"Thanks for setting all of this up, Howie." Nick sat in the very back seat with him as the women gabbed in the front.

"No, problem. I'm just sorry the kids couldn't come."

"Well, they already had plans with their cousins, that's cool." Nick agreed. "We'll see them tonight, won't we?"

"Yeah, I made dinner reservations in town for everyone." Howie smiled.

"You did what, Howard?" Leah demanded.

"I made dinner. . ."

"I've got a roast cooking at home and now you tell me this?" She sighed with a roll of her eyes. "I can't believe this."

"I told you I'd handle everything." He said in his own defense.

"You two need to communicate better." Nick chuckled. Howie grabbed Nick's ponytail and pulled his face close to his.

"Don't get between me and the woman fighting, okay?" Howie muttered.

"We're not fighting, I'm telling you that you are wrong." Leah laughed.

"You know what my dad did?" CJ asked, pulling on Leah's sleeve.

"What, Honey?" she smiled.

"He stood me up last night. On my date." CJ smiled smugly.

"He what?!" Leah gasped playfully.

"We had a date, but we didn't go."

"You stood up the pretty little lady?" Howie demanded playfully, still hanging onto Nick's hair.

"I didn't mean to. We had the flight and the house. . ." Nick jokingly begged.

"I think you had a date with someone else." Howie winked at Lexie.

"I'd never do a thing like that." Nick protested.

"Oh, I'll admit it! Don't hurt him, he was seeing me!" Lexie said dramatically. "Don't be mad at me, CJ!"

"Oh, I know how he can be." CJ play pouted. "He's a player."

The occupants of the van burst out laughing, until tears were streaming down everyone's cheeks and even their driver was trying not to cry with laughter.

"Howie, are you going to let go of Nick?" Leah asked, wiping her eyes. Howie looked over at the hair in his hand.

"I don't know. It's so nice and silky." He teased Nick, beginning to stroke it.

"Oh, knock it off." Nick groaned, snatching it away.

"It's as long as Lexie's. When are you going to get a haircut?" Howie asked.

"I'm not going to." Nick said, sticking out his tongue.

"You going to let him talk to you like that?" Leah asked.

Howie suddenly grabbed that spot between Nick's neck and shoulder. Nick let out an unearthly howl, and his body flew into uncontrollable spasms to get away from Howie's ticklish grip, leading everyone back into uncontrollable hysterics.

"Oh, my." Leah sighed as she grabbed Lexie's hand and they walked into the house.

It was everything Lexie could have ever wanted, and she could barely speak. Maybe this was a sign; maybe everything was going the way it was supposed to.

The guesthouse was actually a guest wing to the north of the main house, but the pool house was a three-bedroom bungalow directly across from the main house on the other side of the natural stone pool. Three separate stairs went down to the beach and one of those branched off onto a boardwalk that took them to the boat launch.

Lexie and Leah walked through the six bedrooms upstairs as the men stayed downstairs and checked out the grounds. The master bedroom was furthest from the front stairs, and there was a back staircase that branched into the main house and then off to the hall to the guest wing. The front entrance opened to the bright and airy front room, which held the main staircase to the bedrooms. Two full baths were at opposite ends of the first floor and then two more upstairs, plus the one off the master bedroom. There was an office and a library on the way to the north end guest wing, while the kitchen, laundry, and garages were at the sound end of the house.

The "basement" was as open and airy as the rest of the house. It had several spare rooms that could easily be converted to a recording studio, but Nick mentioned he would like it in the loft over the garage.

All CJ wanted to know was which room was hers.

"God, this feels so right." Nick held Lexie as they looked out over the water from an upper deck. They could see family scrambling down the boardwalk to the beach.

"It's perfect, Nick." She said softly. Lexie wrapped her arms around his waist and laid her cheek against his chest. "This is our home."

It was so completely theirs and so removed from L.A. that he couldn't deny it. It was perfect for them.

"I think we'll have to sell the L.A. house." He finally confessed.

"You do?"

"I still haven't recovered from the trials. I need to call Tina, but they haven't paid it all back yet." He said quietly.

"Okay, we'll sell it, then." She agreed.

"I know you don't want to. . ." He began. "I'll try to arrange it so we don’t have to."

"I know, but we have to have this house, Nick."

A sexy little smile crossed his lips as looked down at her upturned face.

"You know, I think this is a sign. A sign that everything we've done is right." He whispered, dipping his head to kiss her temple.

"Yes, Nick. It is." She whispered back, closing her eyes and feeling his love and warmth spread through her.

"To the new Carter home!" Howie said, raising his glass of wine at dinner. Between the Doroughs, McLeans, Carters, and the spare Littrell, they easily took up the private room of the Mexican restaurant Howie had chosen.

"Here, here!" AJ echoed him.

"Congrats, you guys." Brian cheered as he lifted his glass as well.

"It's so good to have you home." Leah whispered, leaning in toward Lexie.

"Thanks, Mom." She smiled back.

Everyone settled into eating, and conversation flew around the room as forks scraped against plates and food was consumed.

"This is great!" Lexie declared around a hearty mouthful.

"Slow down, you're going to explode." Nick laughed, watching her shoveling the food in her mouth.

"Got to feed the child what she grew up on." Howie laughed at him.

"Not that damn rabbit food in California." AJ added.

"So, when are you guys moving in?" Brian asked.

"Well, we put in an offer. If they accept this weekend, it'll take about a month to work out all the details." Nick said, filling his own fork.

"You keeping the house in L.A.?"

"We're not even sure if we'll need it." Nick shrugged, sliding his fork between his lips and letting the spicy enchilada lightly burn the inside of his mouth.

"A month, huh?" Leah mused. "Just in time. . ."

"Yes, we'll take the kids while you're in Paris." Lexie chuckled, reaching for her own glass of wine.

"We get to stay in the new house! Alright!" John, Lexie's younger brother, cheered as he high-fived Tyler.

"Hang on, hang on! Before you pack to move out, your mother and I have to work out the details with Nick and Lexie." Howie announced.

"Well, I won't be working. It shouldn't be a problem. . ." Lexie shrugged.

"We'll see. We'll see." Howie said sternly, but with a smile.

"Okay, okay!" Lexie said, throwing up her hands.

Nick watched as Howie sat at the head of the table, as the patriarch of this entire family, Leah to his left and Lexie to her left. He was in his element and so was Lexie. Nick smiled at the picture before him.

It was the right decision to move back to Florida and so close to her family, because so many of them were his family, too. . .his Backstreet family.

Nick and Lexie fell into bed at Howie's house, even though Nick still had that suite with Brian. Hell, even Brian was sleeping on the couch in the den. The boys, John and Tyler, had wanted Brian and Nick to play basketball with them the next day after morning Mass.

Nick's entire day felt so surreal, he could barely grasp it. He woke up in Howie's house with Lexie's hair spread across his chest and her light breath tickling him. The entire family got up and dressed for Mass, where Howie hustled everyone to the same church Nick and Lexie had been married in.

As the doors closed behind them, the noise of the city was blocked out. And in the corners of his mind he could hear the wings of angels urging him forward. His hand in hers, she shared the rituals with him as her husband and all of them shared them as a family.

The afternoon was filled with food and play, the boys taking on Brian and Nick, with the adults having the bruises to show for it. Lexie and Leah cooked and talked as they had years ago. The meal was filling and slowed the adults to a slug's pace, and at the day's end, Nick, Lexie and Brian retired to the hotel suite, leaving CJ to play with the boys until her and Lexie's late night flight out.

"Well, I don't know about you two, but I'm pooped." Brian yawned and stretched as he headed for his room in the suite. "I'll see you in the morning, Nick. Have a good flight out tonight, Lexie, okay?"

"I will, thanks Brian." Lexie smiled as he waved and closed the door behind him.

"Time alone." Nick smiled, suddenly pulling her into his arms and kissing her.

"Not too much, I've got a late flight out tonight."

"Make love to me, baby." He murmured against her mouth, finally slipping his tongue past her lips into the promise of sweetness she offered him. "I can't bear the thought of us being apart again."

"I know, I know." She agreed as she held on to him.

They stumbled their way to his bedroom, closing the door on the rest of the world. Hot tears made their way into Nick's eyes, but he tried to will them away. Lexie kissed them dry as she touched his body and soul tenderly, preparing him for their separation. She found strength as his began to fail. Lexie only had this strength because she had finally felt as though she found her home with him. She could feel her roots taking hold on that Tampa beach already. She loved him and cared for him as he bared his heart to her through each touch of his hands on her body.

"I love you so much." He gasped, spilling himself within her confines and being held in her arms. He could no longer contain his emotions as he cried, clinging to her.

Lexie wiped his tears as they fell, hers sometimes mingling with his as they held on to their last hours together. The time came when they could no longer deny what was going to happen, and they showered and dressed together. They rode over to Howie's by 11 p.m. and picked up CJ. Nick carried a sleeping CJ to the car; Howie took Lexie in his arms as Leah followed Nick to help with the car door.

"Is he okay?" he asked her. She looked back at Nick, then at her father.

"He's a little upset, but he'll be okay." She said quietly, feeling her own body begin to tremble.

How she loves him! Howie thought.

"Bye, Dad. I'll see you in a couple weeks." Lexie said, swallowing hard. He kissed her cheek and briefly tasted the old salt there.

"You bet, little girl." He winked just for her. She tapped his nose and turned to head to the hired car. She hugged her mother, shared a few more words, and then joined Nick in the car. With a wave, they were gone.

Lexie's heart was racing as the time drew closer. Nick cuddled with a drowsy CJ as they waited for her flight to board. His face buried into her light blonde hair and Lexie’s hand was clenched in his.

The look on Nick's face was almost more than she could bear when her flight was called. He woke CJ up so she could walk onto the plane and he shared kisses as his girls turned to leave him. Lexie got CJ buckled in and she was waving to her father from the plane, although Lexie doubted Nick could see them anymore. The plane lifted off, and CJ had begun to drift off back to sleep. The flight attendant came by and offered Lexie a blanket and pillow.

"Mrs. Carter. Your husband flies with us all the time. Is there anything else I can get you?" The young woman asked her.

Lexie sighed and looked over at CJ and as the plane tore her further away from Nick, she looked up at the attendant.

"Yeah, bring me something stiff, okay?" She said sadly. Something to help her sleep and forget how much she would miss him as she moved farther away.

"Are you sure you don't want to just go home?" Norma asked, as Lexie stood slumped across the table trying to catalog some documents.

"No." Lexie sighed. She looked at her watch and it wasn't even lunch yet. She could barely operate. She let CJ stay home with Cook, after dealing with the guilt that Nick had told the staff on Friday that they would be moving from L.A. soon. She should have been there when he told them, but she had been so distracted Friday when she got home that she had barely acknowledged Cook.

Sometimes I don't know if I should be happy or not.

She had tried to apologize, but her mixed emotions got the best of her, and she had just left the house, heading to work.

I'm the evil 'new young wife' and now they are losing their jobs after 15 years.

"You look like shit." Gina mused, walking in after Norma walked out.

"Thank you, nice to see you, too." Lexie snapped.

"Okay, what happened in Tampa? You and Nick fighting?"

"No." Lexie sighed. Gina went back and closed the door. Lexie sank down into a chair and threw her feet up on the table. "Tampa was fine, I'm just missing him, that's all. That and Nick told the staff on Friday that we'd be moving, and Cook's probably pissed at me. I know they probably think it's all my fault they are out of their jobs after 15 years."

"She say if she was pissed?"

"No, but she would barely look at me."

"You sure you aren't just overreacting?"

"I don't know. Maybe."

"Why don't you go home? You can barely keep your eyes opened. You've gotten so far ahead on this estate, you'll be done in another week." Gina offered.

"No, I'll stay." Lexie declined her.

Lexie did stay and worked her whole day, but her lunch had been a two-hour nap in the car. She made it home in time to be greeted by Cook and CJ. Lexie sent CJ out to play and she sat Cook down to try to apologize, but it just came out in a jumble of tears.

"Honey, it's not your fault." Cook smiled at her. "All kids got to fly the coop, it just took him a little longer than most."

"But you've worked here for so long. . ." she sniffled.

"No, I've worked for Nick that long and well. . .I might not have to leave." She said, reaching across the table to take her hand.

"What?" Lexie sniffled, wiping her eyes with the back of her hands.

"Well, I talked to my husband last night. . ."she began. "Nick offered us some assistance if we want to move with the family. . ."

"He didn't tell me that!" Lexie gasped.

"He said I could tell you if we made the decision to come with you. I don't think Marcus and Anthony can come, but my husband is retired now and the kids are grown. My daughter is moving to Toronto with her husband and Hannah, her daughter, in July. . ." Cook shrugged. "Hannah is my only grandchild. You know those boys of mine won't settle down."

"I don't believe it." Lexie groaned. "You'd come with us?"

"I don't know why I shouldn't." The older woman shrugged.

"Oh, God, this is so wonderful!" Lexie squealed, jumping up and hugging her. "I just felt like shit all day because I didn't say a thing on Friday and then this morning. . ."

"You were obviously hung over."

"It was jetlag." Lexie tried to convince her.

"Call it whatever you'd like, young lady. You were in no mood to talk about this and right now you look exhausted. Why don't you go upstairs and rest? I'll stay and look after the angel." She smiled.

"I don't deserve you." Lexie sighed.

"That's funny. Nick used to say that all the time." She smiled, squeezing Lexie's hand.

"This message is for Lexie Carter. Lexie, this is Mark Nelson, Victoria Winslow's segment producer. I was expecting your call Friday night. I'm still interested in speaking with you. Please call my cell phone when you can."

"Shit, shit, shit." Lexie groaned as she sat at the computer in the den with the phone in her hand after listening to phone messages the next morning.

"What?" Cook asked as she carried fresh flowers into the room.

"I forgot to call that TV producer. I'll call him right now. I don't believe this!" Lexie said, dialing his number. "I swear I'm going crazy! Hello? Mark Nelson? This is Lexie Carter."

"Lexie! It's great to hear from you finally!" He laughed.

"I am so sorry. I was planning to call, but something came up and we had to fly out of town unexpectedly. I am so sorry."

"No, no, it's okay. I discussed your story with Vicki, and she is fascinated by it. She really wants to set up a time when we could possibly do a pre-interview. She'll be L.A. later this week, is there any time that might be good for you?"

"Wow, really?! Well, I don't know. . .I mean I'm home most evenings. Should we meet somewhere for lunch or dinner or something. . .I'm sorry, I've never done anything like this before." Lexie stammered.

"Dinner would be good." He chuckled. "It may take a couple hours."

"Okay, could she come here maybe or would she like to meet at a restaurant? Maybe at her hotel?"

"Dinner at your house would be fine, if it's not too much work."

"Oh, no. We have a cook. How about Friday night, or is that too late in the week?"

"No, that sounds good. How does 5 o'clock sound?"

"I'm sorry, I don't get home from work until 6. How's 6:30? Is that too late?"

"No, that’s fine. Will Nick's daughter be there?"

"I can send her to her uncle's if you'd like."

"Oh no, I think she'd love to meet her, too."

"Then CJ can be here."

"Great, Lexie. So, 6:30 this Friday. Dinner at your house. Can we have the address?"

"Of course." Lexie smiled, giving them the address and promising to leave their names at the front gate. After hanging up, she called Nick immediately.

"So, you got it?" He asked eagerly.

"Well, she's coming for dinner on Friday. I don't know what I've 'got' actually. Can I tell her about the move?"

"Hon, you can tell her about whatever you want."

"Okay!" She laughed.

"Except Christine. If she asks about CJ's mother. . ."

"I know, stick to the public story." She agreed.

"You understand, don't you?"

"Yes, of course. I know you're still thinking things over. I'm just glad you're still willing to think and talk about it."

"I am." He sighed.

"Okay, well, I've got to go get in the shower."

"Alrighty, thanks for calling. Tell CJ I love her."

"I will."

"I love you, too."

"I know, and I love you." She smiled. Lexie hung up the phone and headed upstairs to shower and get CJ ready for school.

"Sabrina!" Star yelled into her office door.

"I'm in the bathroom for Christ's sake!" Sabrina called through the door, sighing heavily. She finished washing her hands and then toweled them dry. She came out of the bathroom, closing the door behind her. "What is it this time?"

"Jonas Smith is bitching that there aren't any paralegals in the office today and he has a deposition at 2." She sighed.

"Well, they are all busy today. He went to Harvard; tell him to do his own damned deposition!" Sabrina declared, throwing up her hands.

Sabrina looked down at the oak framed calendar on her desk and realized what the date was today. March 1st. She knew today was coming. It was Jill's last day before she left for a month in Malta and Tina was in Orlando, so it was only a matter of time. Sabrina pinched her nose and squeezed her eyes shut.

After thirty days of this I am going to want a vacation, she thought. Or they are going to lock me away. . .either way; I’m not going to be here.

"Can I use those words?" Star smiled wickedly.

"Be my guest." Sabrina reluctantly smiled back.

"Scaring the troops already?" Jill's voice came up behind her as Star left the office. Sabrina turned to the door adjoining their offices.

"Their benevolent leader is leaving them in the hands of the evil step-sister. They should be afraid." Sabrina smiled knowingly.

"You really are being an angel for doing this."

"You didn’t come in to throw up in my bathroom again, did you?"

"No, I used my own last time." Jill laughed, coming in to sit in a chair in front of her desk. Sabrina took her seat behind it. "You have the two newbies settled yet?"

"Yes, they are moving into their office's today. We'll discuss caseloads tomorrow. So, you all packed?"

"Yes, all three of us. Jane is coming for the first two weeks."

"Pulling her out of school, huh? What's CJ going to do without her?"

"Well, she'll probably be just fine. They are moving back to Florida. Tampa to be exact."

"I know, Nick's been calling about his recovered assets and why they aren’t fully recovered yet." Sabrina said. "I've got a call into Tina."

"Sounds good."

"You sound sad about it."

"Oh, no. I’m happy for them. Nick needs to get away from L.A. and his mother for awhile."

"They haven't patched things up?"

"Are you kidding? It's hard to decide which one of them is more hard headed, Jane or Nick." Jill smiled softly. "I think the girls will miss each other."

"You can always fly them back and forth. They are both pros at it."

"I know, but it's not the same as having them close by where they can just play together."

"It's tough, but Star said Nick sounded pretty excited about the new house."

"He is. I've seen pictures. It really is perfect for them." Jill agreed. "Well! Enough about Nick Carter and his problems. . .I'm going on vacation at 5:00 p.m. and not even his mother is going to stop me!"

"Hear, hear!" Sabrina agreed.

"You don’t understand!"

"You were gone all the time!"

Kevin woke with a start during his trans-Atlantic flight. The cabin was still dimmed and he could hear someone typing softly on a laptop in coach. He was in the last row and on the aisle of first class, a place he liked so he could stretch his legs out. More than once he had almost tripped flight attendants, but this airline was getting used to him, and he saw the same flight crews several times a year.

He thought back to his recurring dream and the words screamed at him every time in the dream by his wife over the years of their long marriage. This argument ended with a quiet confession, "I was lonely." At the time, he hadn't understood, but now ten years later, he did. He loved her like life itself and needed her like the air he breathed.

He hadn't been able to send her away.

Kevin shook his head. He was lonely and tired himself these days. Months alone in London working on his latest movie score had left him drained and unwilling to be away from home another minute.

He looked down at his watch.

He would be in New York in three more hours. Then he would be on another flight to Seattle to see Jake before heading to Kentucky. It had been so long since he had seen his strong-willed second son, Jake, that the surprise might do them both good.

Kevin arrived in L.A. at 11:08 p.m. that night. It was 2:09 a.m. when Sabrina got the call.

"Ms. Carlson, this is the answering service."

"Which one?" she mumbled.

"For Carter, Carlson, and Ryans. I have a call here for Jillian Carter."

"Can't it wait until the office opens?" Sabrina asked, sitting up and grabbing her alarm clock.

"He says he's Jill Carter's brother-in-law."

"Nick? . . .okay, I'll take the call."

Sabrina listened to the phone lines click as they were switched to connect her with the caller.

"Hello?" she asked.

"Hello?" A deep male voice slurred.

"Nick? . . .who is this?" She demanded.

"It's Kevin. Kevin Richardson." He slurred, obviously drunk.

"Mr. Richardson? Jake's father?"

"Yes, yes. Is Jill there? I can't remember Nick's number and I'm in trouble. . ." He began to ramble.

"Where are you?"

"Uh. . .I'm in jail. . .L.A. county I think. Can you just give me Nick's number?"

"Nick is in Orlando."

"He is? Oh, shit, he is. . .look, you got to help me. I go in front of the judge in an hour. I need some bail money." He groaned.

"Mr. Richardson, what did you do?" She asked.

"I got drunk."

"I noticed that. What got you in jail?"

"I got in a fight." He whispered. "I gotta call someone. Can you call someone?"

"I'm Sabrina Carlson, I'm one of Jill Carter's partners. I'll be right there, Mr. Richardson." She sighed, throwing back the covers.

"Thank you." He sighed heavily. "Thank you, Sabrina."

Click.

"Can any of these guys ever stay out of trouble?" Sabrina groaned, slipping her feet into her slippers and heading for the bathroom.

Sabrina hadn't worked night court in years. She put together a casual outfit and headed to town within an hour of his call. She called the court before she left her condo and had him moved down the docket. She went through security and made it to the prisoner counseling area.

"Mr. Richardson?" She queried the man, whose dark, but graying head was on his arms across the table. He looked up and turned those emerald eyes on her. "Mr. Kevin Richardson?"

"Yeah?"

"I'm Sabrina Carlson." She said, putting her hand out for him to shake.

Kevin couldn't help but stare at this beautiful young woman before him. She was tiny, but her back was ramrod straight, her head held high. Her dark hair was pulled back in a casual ponytail and she wore simple sportswear.

God, when did I forget how incredible they can be?

"I'm with Jill Carter's law firm?" She added softly as he continued to stare at her.

"Oh, yes, yes." He said suddenly, getting to his feet and reaching out to swallow her tiny hand with his large one. He held on to her for her warmth, but she pulled away first. She took a seat across the table from him.

"I got your charges, they aren't that bad. Public Drunkenness, Public Disorderly Conduct and Simple Assault. Bail will be probably be just a few thousand. The firm can put that up for you." She said, snapping her briefcase open. "I need you to sign a retainer so I can proceed on your behalf and we can discuss reimbursement later."

"Of course. Where's Jill?" He asked, watching her slide the paperwork toward him.

"She and her husband are out of town for the next month. I'm the only senior partner that is still in town." Sabrina said, handing him a pen as well.

He signed the papers without even reading them. She pointed where he needed to initial and he did each one.

"Have you sobered up?" She asked, collecting the papers and filing them in her briefcase.

"I think so." He said with a heavy sigh.

"Good. I had you moved down the docket so I could get here to represent you. We have about forty minutes. Why don't you tell me what happened?" She said, clasping her hands together and leaning over the table toward him.

"You don't waste any time, do you?" He said.

"I don't waste my clients' time."

"Time is money." Kevin said quietly.