Even though I knew it was all an elbaborate ruse, I couldn’t
tear myself
away from how real it looked. The flatline, the long steady beep, the
solemn
faces. I knew Nick was breathing, but I had to reassure myself of it
over and
over. If I reacted this strong when it was a show, I’d hate to guess
how it
would be if, God forbid, it ever really happened.

Then Howie and AJ came in. They’re reactions, seeing them break down
like
that, was almost ovewhelming. I started to say something to them, but
Brian put
a hand on my arm. He shook his head slightly and I nodded in
acknowledgement. He
was the one with the plan.

I studied him closely and determined that he wasn’t having any
easier of a
time with this than I was. He was ghostly pale, shaking, and still
crying. If
there was one thing that made my heart ache, it was men that were
crying. Now, I
was in a surrounded by them with one of my closest friends on his way
to the
morgue. Yeah, I was definitely struggling with this.

Deizel left the room for a moment out of respect, along with the
rest of the
nurses and the doctor that were involved. I glanced nervously at Brian,
then
Kevin. If Howie and AJ saw Nick up close, they would know he was still
alive.
Who knew what would happen then? It could blow the whole thing. Howie
would
probably be able to be a little more discreet, but I could see AJ
flipping out.
I needn’t have worried about that though. AJ pulled himself to his feet
and
attempted to go over to Nick. He took one look, choked back a sob, and
bolted
from the room. Howie cast a pained glance towards Nick, then us, before
running
after AJ.

“Shit.” Murmured Kevin. He looked at Brian and I. “We should leave
so they
can take him when they get here.” He said, not wanting to say morgue.

“Help...me...over.” Brian whispered. I frowned at Kevin,
thinking
Brian really needed to lay down. Kevin acknowledged me look and set his
hand on
Bri’s shoulder.

“No! I...need...to!” Brian insisted as forcefully as he
could. I knew
why too. With this scheme, who knew when he was going to be able to see
Nick
again anytime soon.

Kevin supported Brian over to Nick’s bedside. Brian reached a hand
up and
gently brushed Nick’s hair away from where it had fallen in his eyes.
It was
considerably longer than when I had first met him. But, then, mine was
too.
Brian didn’t say anything, but I could see his shoulders shaking. Then
Deizel
appeared in the doorway with a wheelchair. Kevin helped Brian into it.
Behind
Deizel were two men in white lab coats. They were there for Nick.

“No.” I whispered. I wasn’t ready. I needed to be with him to make
sure he
was going to be okay. I shakily went over to the side of the bed and
wrapped my
arms around him. I felt a hand on my shoulder.

“Come on, Lizz. It’s time.” Deizel said softly.

I took Nick’s hand and squeezed it tight. Before I pulled away, I
whispered
in his ear, “It’s going to be okay Nick. I know you can hear me in
there. Keep
fighting and dont be scared, you’re safe now. I’ll see you as soon as I
can.
Hang in there. Love you.”

Deizel led me out of the room over to Kevin and Brian. I rested my
hand on
the handle of Brian’s wheelchair, steadying myself. I wasn’t prepared
to see the
men wheel Nick’s bed out of his room, a sheet draped over it. Over him.
It
wasn’t the first time I had seen that and it was hard. I couldn’t help
but break
down once again. I shielded my eyes with my hand, trying to stifle the
sobs.
Brian reached his hand up and layed it over mine.

“We’re...going to...get through...this...Lizz.” Brian’s words
were
strong, but I was still scared. It was all so real and so much was at
stake. We
didn’t know the extent of the damage Marcus inflicted on Nick and
whether he, or
his voice, would be okay. He had to be okay, I needed him to be. Who
was going
to keep me in line or get into trouble with me? Who else was going to
be there
for me like he was? I had to believe he was going to be okay, because
frankly, I
couldn’t take it any other way.

Marcus watched the scene from the tiny closet, barely able to
contain his
excitement. Only moments after entering Carter’s room, the tattooed one
tore
open the drapes and Marcus heard him cry out like an animal, falling to
his
knees. Seconds later he tore out of the room, followed by the other
one. Next, a
doctor walked out, face grim. Then a nurse, also visibly upset and
shaken.
Marcus felt his grin widen. Then it looked Brian and Lizz were saying
their
tearful goodbyes. “Boo-fucking-hoo.” He muttered under his breath. The
best part
came when two men pulled a sheet over Carter’s bed and wheeled his body
out of
the room. Marcus was elated. He discarded his previous thought to leave
and
“disappear” for awhile and decided to hang around and relish in
everyone’s
misery. Especially Brian and Lizz’s. “Finally they got what they
deserved.” He
smirked to himself.

The day continued on in pretty much the same nightmarish fashion. I wanted to know who had called a few moments after we had reached Kevin’s room. There were two phone calls that had come in a row, but the first one seemed to really shake Kevin up. Not to mention he looked pissed. I had my suspicions, but I didn’t want to bring it up though until I was totally aware of how this plan was going to work. And I didn’t want to ask while Howie and AJ were still in the room since they didn’t know.

AJ had finally calmed down from his raging. He had finally lowered himself into a chair, defeated. He put his hands over his face and stayed that way for a long time. Howie had sort of stared off into space and he seemed to be in a state of shock. Kevin had spent most of the rest of the day on the phone and temporarily disappearing from the room.

Brian worried me the most. He looked so lost. Granted, he knew that his best friend hadn’t really died, but there were still a lot of unknowns and Nick wasn’t out of the woods yet. Nick’s sats had dropped and just having surgery where his oxygen levels were messed with already, was precarious. Not to mention, he was under strict orders to be kept totally quiet at the risk of his voice being permanently ruined. I was scared to death he was going to wake up alone and be scared to death. He wouldn’t be in a familiar room and there wouldn’t be any familiar faces to reassure him. Last, we were playing with fire anyway with this plan. One little slip and Marcus would strike. An innocent fan? One of us?

When Kevin had returned to the room once, he suggested that Howie, AJ and I go back to the hotel. They both argued and I flat refused. Obviously Kevin didn’t know me well enough yet to know that I wasn’t leaving Brian or Nick. Howie relented first, seeing that is was the best plan. AJ was a little slower to agree, but after much convincing, he did reluctantly. I still flat out refused and with a long sigh, Kevin gave up.

I glanced at the clock on the wall. 10:53. Normally I would be wide awake, but now I was exhausted. The pain in my ribs lessened to a dull throbbing, but my headache remained. Brian fared worse. His color never really returned and he had barely uttered two words since this afternoon. We were now waiting for Kevin to get back in here. He had gone to walk Howie and AJ to the elevators.

“Need anything?” I asked softly to Brian.

“Nick.” Came the soft reply.

“I know.” I said, hoping my voice didn’t betray the emotion I felt. “He’s going to be okay.”

Brian nodded and offered a smile more for my benefit.

“Lizz, I really wish you would have gone with them.” Kevin admonished as he strolled back into the room. “You need to take care of yourself.”

I shook my head. I was the least of my concerns right now. “Why haven’t we heard anything about how he is?”

“Haven’t you ever heard, ‘no news is good news’? Communication about that is incredibly risky. I’m sure they would have told us if something had gone wrong.” Kevin assured.

“Why didn’t you tell AJ and Howie the truth? That’s cruel.” I tried to keep the accusing tone out of my voice, but I couldn’t help it. If it were me on the other side, I would have freaked.

“I hate it as much as you do, but what choice do we have? AJ can’t keep a secret worth anything. If we told them the truth, their reaction might have ruined the plan. Nick and who knows who else’s lives are at stake. You want to risk that?” Kevin reasoned.

I hung my head. “I know, of course I don’t. I just...I mean, doesn’t this scare you? We are playing with fire!” I looked up, staring Kevin in the eyes.

“Hell yes it scares me, but what choice do we have?” Kevin threw his hands out.

“I know, I know. We don’t really. We have to do whatever it takes.” I sighed.

Brian didn’t say a word through the whole exchange. He was the one who came up with this brilliant plan, but I knew he was frustrated at not being able to do more. He was always there for Nick and now he couldn’t be. Not as much as he wanted to be.

The more I thought about Nick being alone up there, the more I decided that that wasn’t going to work. I couldn’t help but play out in my mind what could happen when he would wake up and no one familiar would be there. I made up my might, I wasn’t going to let that happen. If he had woken up already, we were screwed. What was important now was that he stayed calm to protect his voice.

It was another hour before Brian finally let himself fall asleep. Well, I don’t think he really let himself because he was fighting it, but his overtired body won out. Kevin feel asleep a little later with his book still in his hands. I made myself wait another half hour to make sure they were asleep. It passed agonizingly slow, but when it came, I was ready. I slipped out of the room and took the elevator to the first floor. Then I followed the signs to the ER. I knew it was usually hectic enough in there that I would be virtually unnoticed. I was right. No one gave me a second glance as I ducked into a supply room and grabbed a pair of blue scrubs. I grabbed a mask and surgical hat too. I shoved it all under my shirt, making me look slightly pregnant, and went across the hall into a bathroom. I changed quickly, ditching my jeans and teeshirt. I was wearing the green sweatshirt Nick had gotten for me for the press conference and I knew I couldn’t leave that behind so I tied it around my waist. The mirror revealed the dark bruise under my eye and the cheekbone underneath. The bandage covering the nice hole in my head that Marcus gave me when he clocked me with his gun was easily covered by the hat. Now I looked like a med student.

The only thing I knew was that Nick was on the seventh floor now. Getting to him might be tough. Again, no one gave me a second look as I nonchalantly headed to the elevators and to the seventh floor. This was sort of the overflow floor. Normally not used much, but during winter seasons when there was a lot more illness this floor tended to be a little more occupied. It was pretty slow now. I hesitated when I got closer to the rooms. This was top secret, how did I think I would get in? And how did I think I was going to find out where he was? I couldn’t just ask! I finally decided to wander and try to peak in the rooms. At least I looked legit. I went all down one hall with no luck. I made it to the end of the second hall the same way, starting to feel discouraged. When I started to push open one door, someone materialized at my side.

“Excuse me, can I help you?” The nurse looked at me critically. Her name tag read Georgia Shell.

“Ah, yeah I am looking for a patient.” I said, trying to sound confident.

“Name?”

“Uh...my name is uh-” I started to stammer.

“The patient’s name.” Georgia cut me off. She looked determined, but nervous.

I thought hard. Why was she nervous? Had I found Nick? “Actually I was a close friend of a patient that died today. I was very concerned about a friend of his who is also admitted here. I don’t really want him to be alone when he wakes up.” I said carefully.

Her eyes widened somewhat. “I-I recognize you. You’re...”

I nodded. “Shhh. Can you help me? My friend shouldn’t be alone.” I let the desperation sneak into my voice.

She nodded and motioned for me to follow her into the room that I had tried to go into. “Should I expect anyone else?” She whispered.

“No!” I whispered back, almost too harshly. “I’m sorry. No one else, though. And I wasn’t here either.”

She nodded. “He hasn’t woken up yet, but he’s been trying to. I am glad you are here, actually.” She gave me a small smile before disappearing again.

The room was dark and I walked slowly over to the bed. Nick lay there, oxygen canula on, shifting around slightly. I looked at all the monitors that were on and was relieved to see that all the levels were normal. I sank down into a chair and took his hand into mine. I let out a long shaky breath, relieved and scared at the same time. Relieved that I was here with him, scared by everything else. I desperately hoped he would be okay when he woke. Kevin was going to absolutely ream my ass when he found out about this. Yes, there was a risk, but being here for Nick overrided that. I started to formulate a plan. I knew it was going to be impossible to sneak back and forth. Way too risky. I had two options. One being I would have to keep my distance from Nick. There was no way that was going to happen though. That left one other option.

Go into hiding too.

I could get plane tickets and fly somewhere to make it look like I disappeared. Like I just had to get away. Then, come back under an alias and stay with Nick. I had some friends that had just moved to Florida that I was sure would be able to help. The plan started to take shape and I finally started to feel a little relief. Now I just had to live through Kevin’s wrath when I got caught doing this now.

My thoughts were interrupted when Nick stirred again. I squeezed his hand gently and was rewarded with a weak squeeze back. I gingerly sat on the edge of his bed and waited for his eyes to open. I didn’t have to wait long.

My throat was searing like it was being stabbed repeatidly with thousands of knives. I sucked a breath in, which was a huge mistake and I wanted to scream out in agony but something inside of me prevented me from attempting it. I slowly opened my eyes and waited for them to focus as I scanned the room. There was a figure sitting at the edge of the bed and I guessed it correctly that it was Lizz.

“Sh-h-h, don’t talk hon,” Lizz quietly directed.

I frowned at the request but then I suddenly remembered that I had chose the option of having my vocal cords repaired after drinking the tainted water that Marcus had provided for me. I also remembered that the doctor had told me that I would more than likely have to keep quiet until he had given me a “green light” to begin talking once again. I was anxious to find out if the surgery was successful, but again I was scared that it may have failed. Damn, I was so tired, I never would have guessed that I would be completely whipped by this. There were so many questions I wanted to ask Lizz, Lucky for me, she had that “telepathic link.”

“You really need to rest up, Nick, you’ve been through some hell.” She understood the look I shot at her. “Brian is doing fine, he sends his love,” Lizz replied.

That wasn’t good enough for me. I could tell that she had been stressing herself over all of this and she looked like hell. I know that she hadn’t been eating, let alone sleeping through any of this. God, she looked awful for me just coming out of surgery.

My eyes caught a calendar that was hanging on the wall. The date made me do a double take. Okay, my surgery was done on Friday, the 19th. Why in God’s name did the calendar have Tuesday, the 23nd. Did they have me snowed under that long?

Lizz’s eyes followed mine to the calendar. She again read my thoughts. “Drugs are great, aren’t they?” she lied. I managed a weak smile back.

I didn’t agree 100% that this was the truth, but I was too sleepy to fight it at the moment.

“That’s it Nick, rest, it’s what you need,” Lizz soothed as she held my hand in hers. ~*~*~*~*~*~

“Just where the hell did Lizz take off to?” Kevin demanded of Brian as he paced the room, stopping once to look out the window.

“Hopefully resting,” Brian replied. His voice was growing stronger each day and his prayers were answered when he woke up this morning and had his voice back almost to his full potential. His voice would waiver when he talked for extended periods, but at least it was coming back to him thankfully to the speech therapy he had been receiving.

“Somehow I don’t completely belive that,” Kevin sputtered. “Well, since AJ and Howie haven’t made it here yet, I’m going to fill you in on all of the details of what’s been set up for the conference and the other facts. I was hoping Lizz would have been in here to hear this.” Brian nodded solemnly. “Okay, I made funeral arrangements at Repath and Jennings Funeral Home in Tampa. I paid them off to keep this high PR and not to leak any details out. They knew that there would be huge publicity from this stint so they are going to handle this with every instruction I dictated to the letter. The only hurdle I had in this was the fact that Marcus wanted proof that Nick was dead. That elimanted a chance of a “staged creamation” since he wanted a body to view.”

“How are you getting around that?” Brian asked.

“It’s all been taken care of,” Kevin replied, glancing at his watch. “The best of the best in the world that does wax figures did a body image of Nick and I hate to say it, it looks so damned realistic, it’s spooky. You’re gonna swear it’s him in that casket.”

Brian swallowed nervously.

“Okay, the “funeral” has been set up for this Thursday at one o’clock. Nick’s parents have been informed and told of the whys and hows of the whole thing.”

“Oh god, that must have been hard to do,” Brian replied.

“It was, Jane about lost it completely when I talked to her, but I managed to calm her down before she got hysterical. They backed you up with your plan Brian. They said it was the only way to protect Nick and anyone else from getting hurt.”

Brian nodded, relieved that his parents would see it that way as well. He was still worried about how Nick was coming out of all of this, if he was coming out of this.

A quiet tap on the door, stopped Kevin from continuing outlining the plans. “Yeah, it’s open,” Kevin stated.

Lizz popped her head around the door, and slowly emerged, dressed in wrinkled hospital scrubs. “Hi,” she stated, her voice shaky from nerves.

Kevin immediately narrowed his eyes at her. “Where the hell have you been, dressed like that!?” Lizz flinched as the booming of Kevin’s voice assualted her ears. “Oh god, you didn’t” he added quickly when he detected her nervousness.

“Don’t be mad at me Kevin, it was something I had to do,” Lizz defended.

“I’ve gone out of my way buying people off, making plans and ironing out details and you go and do that just because you HAD TO?”

“No, Kevin, it’s okay, Nick’s nurse is cool with this,” Lizz replied, tears starting to well up in her eyes.

“Kev, back down, she’s only trying to help here,” Brian came to her defense.

“If anything goes belly up on this, it’s your fault,” Kevin growled.

Brian shot a dirty look at Kevin after the remark was made. “Don’t let him get to you, it’s been rough for all of us.”

Lizz nodded slightly.

“So, anyway, how is Nick?” Brian asked cautiously.

Lizz’s face brightened through her tears. “Pissed that he can’t talk!”

“Oh god, that’s the best news I’ve had all morning,” Brian softly chuckled. “No side effects from the carbon?”

“Nope, he’s ornery so he’s all good,” Lizz smiled.

“Okay, now I can fill you in on the press conference before Howie and AJ show up,” Kevin interrupted.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Nick’s family pulled into the parking lot of the funeral home, as Kevin pulled up behind them with AJ, Howie and Lizz. This was the plan that Kevin had set up for them just in case Marcus would be scoping out the funeral home. The actual arrangements were made from Tampa, but “Nick” would be in Oklahoma until Marcus had his taste of this and then the casket with the fake Nick would be shipped out to Tampa and a closed casket would be viewed from that point on.

The sounds of the awful piped in music added to the dregery of the situation. Lizz could see out the corner of her eye a oak casket far away in a large room. As they neared the entrance, she felt her stomach turn in knots. ’This isn’t Nick,” Lizz kept repeating to herself mentally. From far away, her heart did a leap as she saw the wax mannequin dressed in a dark blue shirt and patterned tie laying in the casket. As they neared the body, she felt her heart catch in her throat. As much as she tried to convince herself that this wasn’t Nick, she couldn’t push it past that thought. This looked like a ringer for Nick....a dead ringer. Nick’s parents had been told that this was all a staged death, Lizz wasn’t sure about his sisters and brother by their reactions. AJ and Howie weren’t any better. After thirty minutes elapsed, the final test came into the room:

Marcus.

Kevin narrowed his eyes at the man that had caused all of this unwanted pain and suffering. Suprizingly, Marcus had managed to clean himself up halfway decently but his hair was still obviously greasy and combed back, the comb marks leaving a trail from his forehead all the way down towards the back of his dirty neck. The true test came as Marcus approached the casket. No one in the room had thought to touch the mannequin and Marcus appeared to be checking all the details, the scars on Nick’s finger and his forehead, all recreated from photos Kevin provided. Kevin’s breath caught as Marcus reached down and touched the hands and then sickly patted them.

“Farewell my friend,” Marcus softly said to “Nick.”

“Who the hell is that dude?” AJ whispered to Kevin.

“An old manager of Nick’s,” Kevin lied.

AJ bought the lie as he remained seated. Something about the man bothered AJ, but he couldn’t remember where he had seen him. He decided since he had been one of Nick’s manager’s, then that was probably where he had seen him before.

Marcus gave his respects to Nick’s parents and then quietly asked Kevin to step out of the room with him. They barely got out the front door when Marcus pulled out a cigarette and lit it, taking a deep drag from it. “I really didn’t believe you at first, but now that I’ve seen it with my own two eyes, I can relax. Carter is dead, his debt has been paid off,” Marcus smirked.

Kevin could feel the bile rise in his throat. Marcus absolutely sickened him.

“But, I still want to see your conference this afternoon too. I am going to see if my momma can watch it in prision,” Marcus’s face soured.

I woke up alone and bored. I grabbed the remote for the TV and decided to do some channel surfing. I stopped at Mtv, decided that was better entertainment than any soap opera could ever provide. I was so damn bored I was doing all the typical things you do laying in a hospital bed: counting the square tiles on the ceiling, 326 in this room, and staring at the door hoping someone would come in and visit to relieve the boredom.

I looked at the six IV bags that were hanging on the IV pole, wondering what each of them were for. Bored with that, I flipped my ID bracelet around. <b>Carpener, Jack A.</b> I rubbed my eyes and then read it a second and then a third time. What the heck was this about?

Then an annoucement blasted over Mtv News: ”Kevin Richardson from the Backstreet Boys has set up a press conference this afternoon at four. Mtv will have live, exclusive coverage from the hospital.” I immediately was wondering if something awful had happened to Brian, and I was feeling the panic rise in my chest, forgetting about the weird name on the ID bracelet. Then something was flashed on the screen that made my heart stop. I was a picture of me with my name centered at the bottom and 1980 - 2001.

~*~*~*~*~

Never again. Funerals were something I was accustomed to, but this, this was different. Of course, the major detail being that this wasn’t really Nick, it was still different. I kept having to tell myself over and over that it wasn’t him.

Seeing his family and AJ and Howie react the way they did was heart-wrenching. There were other people that I didn’t recognize there and they were all in tears. I’m glad Brian wasn’t here.

Kevin sat one one side of me and AJ sat on the other. Kevin had informed me in not-so-nice terms that I was not to leave his sight. After his verbal lashing, I was not about to try anything...yet.

I don’t know what possessed me to look inside the casket. I never wanted to see the person’s body because I prefered to remember them as they were when they were alive. Maybe it was because I knew it wasn’t really Nick in that casket. Plus it was sort of a morbid curiosity. After seeing it though, I sorta wished I hadn’t. It scared the ever-loving shit outta me. Then I saw a familiar figure walk up to the casket and my whole body tensed. I glanced at Kevin out of the corner of my eye and saw that he was watching Marcus too. AJ leaned in front of me to ask Kevin who that was and I held my breath. Kevin told him that it was one of Nick’s managers and AJ leaned back in the pew, watching Marcus still.

When Marcus leaned over to touch “Nick” I started to get up, my blood boiling. Kevin immediately put his hand on my knee, making me sit back down. He shook his head and gave me a look. I watched after everyone filed out as Marcus pulled Kevin aside. I tried not to act interested, but I wanted to know what was going on now. Kevin walked back over to where AJ, Howie and I were standing. He looked mad, but I knew better than to say something at the moment.

“Okay, this is what’s going to happen. Lizz and I are going to go get Brian if you two want to check back in at the hotel and get your bearings. Be at the conference room at 3:15. Don’t be late. We’ll see you there.” Kevin explained.

AJ and Howie looked relieved, as the funeral had shaken them up pretty bad. I was shaken up and I knew that Nick was really alive. I couldn’t even imagine how they felt. Kevin didn’t say anything until we both got in the car.

“He is going to watch the press conference.” He said, the irritation showing through his voice.

“God, hasn’t he had enough? He isn’t going to leave is he? This is going to go on until he is caught.” I shut my eyes and leaned my head against the headrest.

“Are you holding up okay?” He asked, his voice softer.

“Hell, I don’t know. It was awful. I knew it wasn’t really him in that...But I kept having to repeat it over and over again to myself. Remember back when he swallowed all those pills?” I rubbed my eyes. They had mascara rings under them anyway so I didn’t care much about what happened to the rest of it.

“Yeah.”

“When I was sitting on that computer with him, I was so terrified that he was going to go through with it and I was envisioning going to his funeral. Kevin, that would literally kill me. I was so desperate to stop him that I didn’t care about anything else. That’s why...I did what I did. And now sitting here, sort of brought all that back. What it would be like if he were gone. I couldn’t do it.” My eyes tried to fill up again and I stopped talking before I lost it completely.

“I know, Lizz. But just keep telling yourself that he is here now and he is going to be okay. Try to pull yourself together before we get to Brian’s room okay?” He said softly.

I nodded, thankful again that Brian didn’t have to see that. When we got to Brian’s room, Brian was already ready to go. He was wearing street clothes and other than looking a little tired, he looked totally normal. I knew him well enough by now to tell that he was stressed and very nervous. That made two of us. He looked up at us when we entered the room and I whistled at him. He blushed slightly as he always did when someone payed him a compliment.

“It feels weird to not be in sweats.” He laughed.

“How are you feeling?” Kevin asked.

Brian nodded. “Better. I haven’t heard anything about Nick so I guess that is a good thing. How long before we have to go downstairs?”

“About a half hour.” Kevin replied. I took a deep breath. It was do or die time.

“Um, I made a decision.” I said quietly. Brian and Kevin turned their attention to me and Kevin narrowed his eyes. Okay die. “I was thinking about this when I was in with Nick. He can’t stay alone like this. You both know as well as I do that he can’t. Between trying to recover phsically and emotionally too...Anyway, Iamgoingtogoundercoverwithhim.” I said the last part in a rush.

“Absolutely not. That is way too dangerous.” Kevin interrupted.

“It’s just as dangerous to have him go through this alone. You know as well as I do that we don’t have much of a choice here. I can make myself disappear. I know people that can help me do that. I can get a new name, change how I look, whatever it takes and I will stay with Nick. Make sure nothing happens and stuff.” I was almost pleading. The more I thought about this, the more I realized the importance of this.

“Lizz, think about what you are saying here.” Brian said softly. “Are you ready to put your life on hold for who knows how long?”

“Bri, come on. I flunked out of school already from missing so much class. I’ve pretty much cut off all my friends here in town because I don’t even know what to say to them. I can’t talk about this stuff and I didn’t want them to see me when I was such a wreck. I am sure I lost my job by now too. They can’t keep my position open forever. I can’t stay in this town anyway. It’s a small town and everyone knows everything about everyone else. I won’t be able to have a normal life here again.” I ticked the things off with my fingers.

“I’m sorry...” Brian’s voice grew even more quiet.

“Now don’t start that. I didn’t mean for it to sound that way. No one asked for any of this to happen, but it did and no one can change that. There isn’t any other place I would rather be right now than with you guys. And especially Nick. You know this needs to happen.” I stared both of them in the eyes.

Brian sighed in resignation first. I knew he would see where I was coming from here because this was usually his roll. He knew how bad things could get and now any good to be alone. I think he knew that I needed Nick too.

Kevin cast a glance to Brian. “Don’t tell me you are considering this.”

“We have to...”

Kevin still shook his head. “You know how risky this is?”

“I’ve already got it figured out. One of my best friends lives in Florida. I trust her with my life and I have several times over the years, as she has done with me. Anyway, she just moved there not too long ago with her husband and little girl. Her husband got into some shady stuff when he was younger. Car theft, stuff like that. Needless to say he, well both of them, are pretty street-wise. I can change my look, get a new id, learn some tips and come back someone different. Meanwhile we announce at the conference today that I am going to FL to stay with some friends to get away for awhile. Marcus can follow me to the damned airport if he wants too. He won’t go with me so he won’t know what is going on. This can work. It has to.” I layed it all out.

Kevin finally sighed and tipped his head back. “Geez you are as stubborn as Nick. Maybe worse.”

My eyes lit up. “So I can do it?”

“Like you said, what choice do we have?” Kevin reminded.

Brian gave me an encouraging smile. I could see the mixture of relief and worry in his eyes. I know my feelings mirrored his.

Kevin’s echoed hung in my ears, “If anything goes belly up on this, it’s your fault.”

This was a huge risk, but not doing it could be even a greater risk. We talked for a few more minutes about it, laying out the plan before we went downstairs for the press conference. We were going to announce in the conference that I was going to Florida so it would be made perfectly clear for Marcus, in case he was watching. Kevin managed to pull some strings and get me on a flight departing at 7:00pm, almost four hours from now. After I got in Florida, I was supposed to call Kevin and tell him what name to arrange for a flight for me to return. I wanted to get back as soon as possible. I called my friend and as I had hoped, she was agreeable to everything. I wanted someone to get word to Nick to hold out till tomorrow morning. It bothered me that he was having to be alone and I knew he had a lot of questions. When I got there in the morning I would explain everything.

Then to my total shock, Kevin gave me a huge wad of money. I didn’t even count it, but I knew it was a lot. “You’ll probably need it.” Was all he said.

We started down to the room that was going to hold the conference. The hospital graciously let us use one of their rooms again. I was as nervous as I was last time, actually probably more so. One, there was the whole issue about us playing with fire. Two, I knew it was going to be hard to see people’s reactions when Kevin told them Nick was dead. Three, Nick wasn’t here. Last time he stayed by me the whole time, knowing I was a bit of a wreck. This time I stuck by Brian.

He rode down there in a wheelchair, but left it outside the conference room, choosing to walk in instead. Just before we went in, I stopped them. “Wait, can I go to the bathroom first? Will you wait for me?” I looked at them both.

“Yeah, go ahead, we still have a couple minutes.” Kevin said with a smile.

I bet he thought I was going in to puke. I snickered to myself. I hadn’t eaten in quite awhile so there wasn’t anything to throw up. I let myself into the restroom and went over to the sink, taking a paper towel and wetting it with cold water. I layed it over my face, hoping it would cool me off. Actually dunking my head under the sink would have been preferable, but I didn’t want to look like a drowned rat for the cameras.

After I took off the paper towel I studied my face critically. The black eyes were almost gone. There was only a light bruise under my right eye. The huge bandage on my head was gone, replaced by a tiny little square. Much better. Last, but not least, I wiped under my eyes, hoping the dark rings were mascara instead of from being sleep-deprived. No such luck. Even makeup hadn’t been able to really make my eyes not look so dark.

When I rejoined Brian and Kevin, AJ and Howie were there also. Neither one of them looked much better than they did a little while ago. This was not going to be fun. The room was set up pretty much the same as it was before. The long table with the little place cards. There were reporters in the room too and started snapping pictures immediately.

When we got closer to the table, I breathed a sigh of relief to see that they had put me next to Brian. Kevin was talking to someone, as was Howie. AJ, Brian and I all took our seats. I eyed my water bottle warily. Then, in a sudden impulse I jumped up and grabbed all five water bottles and dumped them in a trash can by the door. I wasn’t taking any chances. I got some strange looks for that little stunt and I was sure a few cameras went off as well. Kevin stopped mid-sentence and looked at me in surprise. Then he called one of their bodyguards over and said something to him.

I sank back into my chair. “I don’t care if I get into trouble for that. Who knows where those bottles came from. Look what happened last time!” I whispered harshly to Brian.

“It’s okay, Lizz.” He smiled back. I thought I saw a hint of amusement in his smile and I had to laugh.

“Okay so I probably looked like a freak just now.” I muttered. AJ even cracked a smile.

The bodyguard came back a moment later with five new water bottles. “These pass inspection ma’am?” He grinned at me.

I blushed. “Well yeah, since I know where they came from now. Thank you.”

Then the rest of the room filled up and people started taking their seats. Or standing at their seats, rather. My stomach tensed up as the camera flashes got faster. I saw Carson again, but he wasn’t doing the asking this time. It was some lady in a dark blue suit that I didn’t recgonize.

Just as she started to ask the first question, the tension in my stomach turned into an onslaught of uneasiness. My first thought was Nick. That something was wrong. I darted my eyes back and forth, trying to figure out what to do without causing a scene. I grabbed Brian’s hand under the table and he looked at me, surprised. The look on my face must have said it all because his eyes widened considerably. I was fighting the panic, determined not endanger the plan. But if something was wrong with Nick, what did any of this matter? I looked at Brian helplessly.

I stared at the tv screen, not completely understanding what was happening. This was all a bad dream and I desperately wanted it to end. Mtv was starting up the press conference and I was anxious to hear what Kevin or any of the other guys would have to say about this mixup. They were probably gonna clear up the rumor that was saying I was dead. This was some sick joke that had gone way too far.

The camera panned the long table where Howie, Kevin, AJ, Brian and Lizz were setting quietly. I did a double take when I saw Lizz. She looked awful, she had dark rings under her eyes and it looked like she was coming out of one hell of a crying jag. I could tell by her actions that she was feeling the panic attack I was fighting. I needed to calm down for her. Thank god Brian was sitting next to her to help her. Last time we had a conference, I was there for her. I literally held my breath as the conference began.

Kevin cleared his throat.As always, he was the spokesperson for the group. Cameras were flashing continuously and video equipment was humming. “Nick passed away on Monday due to complications from surgery. Private funeral services will be held tomorrow in Florida,” Kevin stated, his voice was thick with emotion.

This had to be part of some sick joke, I thought to myself as I stared at the tv screen in disbelief. The camera angle widened and the whole table was shown once again. By the look on everyone’s face, it appeared that they believed what Kevin had read. The look on Brian’s face tore at my heart. He looked lost. I wanted to scream at the tv, get through to someone that I was alive and alright. In a desperate move, I pulled the nurse call button out of the socket on the wall. Within seconds, a team of five nurses came bursting through the door. I was guessing once they saw that I wasn’t having a heart attack, all left but one.

“What do you need?” the nurse asked as she plugged the call button back into the wall outlet.

I stared at her for a moment. How was I going to relay what I needed to ask her? Frustrated, I pointed at the tv. She looked in the direction I was pointing and smiled and nodded.

“Yep, it’s Mtv.”

I narrowed my eyes at her. How could she even think I pulled a nurse button for something that stupid. To hell with doctor’s orders, what did it matter now if I kept quiet? ”They think I’m dead.” I winced as I heard my voice. It sounded awful. I was shocked at how raspy it sounded. It was hard to describe. It was like AJ going on 4 days without sleep. I guess it would be like when you spent 3/4 of the night yelling and screaming at the top of your lungs.

“Sh-h-h, Jack, you’re not supposed to talk, doctor’s orders.”

My eyebrows furrowed, I was growing frustrated with this nurse. ”Not Jack, I’m Nick.”

“I think you need to talk with someone. Please, just lay back and rest and I will get someone to talk to you,” the nurse urged as she placed a hand on my shoulder trying to force me to lay back.

I shook my head, she wasn’t going to play this game with me. I wanted answers and I wanted them now. ”No, tell me.”

“You need to calm down or I will have to sedate you,” the nurse replied, a slight annoyed tone set into her voice. That was enough to keep me quiet for the time being. I hated being sedated, I needed to keep awake to find out answers. ~*~*~*~*~

The panicky feelings eased slightly, catching myself somewhat off-guard. It didn’t totally go away so I knew he had to still be awake, but it wasn’t as persistent as it was when it hit me.

Brian was watching me out of the corner of his eye and I gave him an uncertain smile, trying to convey that it was okay. He nodded barely and turned his attention back to the interview. I tried to pay attention, but my mind kept drifting back towards the viewing, the plans, and Nick.

“Lizz...Lizz??” I snapped back to attention.

“Uh...yeah?” I stammered, flushing. The lady that was doing the asking now was facing me and cameras were flashing behind her.

“Kevin said that you were going to be taking a trip away from here to get a break from all this...” She stopped, hoping I would elaborate. Normally I would clam up, but this was just the opportunity I needed. I took a deep breath, trying to keep my voice steady.

“Yeah...losing Nick, um...it’s hitting me pretty hard and I guess I really need to get away for awhile. I’ve got some friends in Florida that are expecting me. Being here, remembering everything...I guess it’s too much...” My voice caught and I let the stress and general fear of the whole situation show through. I hoped Marcus was watching this. Asshole.

Brian squeezed my hand on top of the table reassuringly. The lady nodded sympathetically and moved on.

~*~*~*~*~

Nick watched in horror as Lizz told everyone about her plans. She was leaving?! Why did everyone think he was dead? He could barely stand watching her struggle to compose herself as she tried to talk. He had to do something to fix this! The camera moved on to Brian and Nick could only stare at the screen, his heart dropping, as his best friend tried to keep his emotions in check.

~*~*~*~*~

The rest of the press conference was a total blur. I couldn’t stay focused no matter what and I was anxious to get to my flight and to find out about Nick. I had to get word to him that I would be there soon and to hang on.

Brian and I waited outside the room while the other three guys were still inside with last minute stuff.

“Think it worked?” I asked softly.

Brian shook his head. “I almost believed it was all real. That is not something I ever want to go through again. What about you? Are you okay?”

I nodded. “I just feel really uneasy. It’s sort of coming and going. Like getting strong, then easing up. I wish I could talk to him.”

“We can’t take that risk. Your flight leaves pretty soon anyway doesn’t it?” Brian whispered back.

I nodded again. “A couple of the body guards are taking me to the airport as soon as the rest of the guys get out here, I guess.”

“You sure you are okay with this?” Brian studied me critically.

“I’m scared shitless, but I have to. You know as well as I do.” I sighed.

Just then Kevin came out, followed by AJ and Howie. My heart went out to them, they looked so torn up.

It’s for the best, it’s for the best. I had to coach myself constantly that this was the right thing to do.

“Ready?” Kevin asked me.

“Yeah.” I whispered.

I exchanged good-byes with everyone, promising to keep in touch, only Kevin and Brian knowing I would be coming right back again. Leaving in the car with the two guards was harder than I thought. I was afraid to leave the hospital, to leave Nick. After going back and forth with myself a few times, I made my mind up. I was going to call Nick’s floor when I got to the airport. Risky, yes, but that was me, the big risk-taker.

Once at the airport I let one of the bodyguards take care of the details of getting the ticket and stuff. I told the other one I need to make a quick phone call. I went to a pay phone while he stayed close enough just in case, but far enough to let me have the privacy I needed. My hands were shaking as I dialed the hospital operator. I asked for Nick’s floor and as soon as someone picked up my mind blanked! What name was he under?! Almost in a flash it came back to me.

“I need to leave a message for a patient. Can you write this down and give it to him? It’s important.” I thought furiously on what to say to keep it secret, yet so he would understand.

“Sure, that’s no problem.” The lady said pleasantly.

“Okay, here goes: ‘Dear Jack Carpenter, I know you are probably a little lost, but trust me. It will all work out. Stay out of trouble and I will see you tomorrow. Love ya, your Shark.’”

I tried to think of how to end it in a way that no one else would know it was me. I didn’t want to say anything having to do with shithouse coon because there were people that knew what that meant. No one knew about the shark thing and I knew he would get that.

“Is that it honey?” The lady affirmed.

“Yes ma’am. It’s really important that he gets it okay?” I tried to stress it in my voice.

“I will deliver it myself. Don’t you worry.” She assured me.

“Thank you so much.” I hung up and walked over to where the guard waited.

“Your flight is boarding in about 10 minutes.” He informed me. “Gate 25.”

The walk was short and the ten minutes flew by. The guards stayed with me until I walked onto the plane. Just before leaving one of them handed me an envelope. “Mr. Richardson wanted me to give this to you before boarding. Read it on the plane.” He said softly.

“Thank you both.” I said quietly. The butterflies were in full flight as I filed in line to get on the plane. I had Kevin’s money, now the envelope, my cell phone, and my purse. That was it.

I found my window seat and was relieved that it wasn’t a very full flight. No one was sitting next to me. A middle-aged businessman sat on the aisle, giving me a polite nod before opening up his laptop. I stared at the laptop, it bringing back the memories of how this all started. Me signing on one day to find Nick on the other end, getting ready to end his life. From that point on it was almost a never-ending rollercoaster of events. Who knew how one incident would impact the rest of our lives.

I shook my head as if to shake the thoughts from my mind. I had to focus on the task at hand. In only a few hours I would be someone completely different. I untied Nick’s sweatshirt from around my waist and rolled it up so it was a half pillow as I rested my head against the window, Kevin’s envelope clutched tightly in my hands. I watched everything below me shrink until it couldn’t be seen anymore. The last thought I had before I shut my eyes, was a prayer that Nick understood my note and everything would be okay till I got back.

~*~*~*~*~ 

The jarring of the plane landing on the tarmack woke Lizz up from her dreams. It took her a few moments to shake off the disorientation but then she quickly remembered where she was and what her mission was. Looking down she noticed that the envelope that Kevin gave her had fallen to the floor. She scooped it up and tore it open.

<i>Lizz, This is very important that you contact me as soon as you have your new name chosen. I can make some arrangements for you on my end and get your return flight back here. I won’t be seeing you again until this matter is overwith. I feel that since the funeral will be in Tampa tomorrow afternoon, it is important that you get out of there ASAP since Marcus will more than likely be watching the area. You can contact me on my cell phone at 407-396-6529 with the details. Good Luck, Kevin </i>

Lizz quickly folded the letter and stuffed it back into the envelope getting in line to file out of the plane.

~*~*~*~*~

This show wasn’t ending and now they were showing a “time capsule” of my life and accomplishments. Since there wasn’t any phones in ICU I couldn’t call my parents or anyone else for that matter. I could get dressed and get the hell out of here and go find Brian or someone and find out why they think I’m dead. As I started to pull the covers off, a quick, sharp knock on the door stopped me. Alice, my daynurse came bustling in with a slip of paper in her hand.

“Mr. Carpenter, I have a note from someone that said it’s very important that you get it.”

<i>Dear Jack Carpenter, I know you are probably a little lost, but trust me. It will all work out. Stay out of trouble and I will see you tomorrow. <p>Love ya, your Shark.’”</i> I read that note twice before it clicked in. <i><b>‘Love ya, your Shark’.</i></b>

That was Lizz! But wait a minute, how come Lizz was at that press conference and was crying because I was dead? This was all too confusing and I was starting to get a headache trying to sort it out.

“Is everything alright, Mr. Carpenter?” I gave a slight nod. I mouthed the words “thanks” and laid my head back on the pillow praying that the headache would go away and that I would get answers quickly.

~*~*~*~*~

“Brian, I think the trip would be too much on you and it’s best that you stay here and stay healthy so you can be discharged by the end of this week.” Brian stared at Kevin as he listed the reasons why he shouldn’t fly to Tampa for the funeral.

“But Marcus will be--”

“Marcus will be thinking you have to stay where you are because you’re not fit to travel,” Kevin interrupted in a stern voice. “Now, I’m waiting on a phone call from Lizz and then I have to set up her return flight. Once she sets up a bank account, I will make sure funds are deposited since she will be with Nick and he won’t have any access to his money.”

Brian watched as his cousin paced the room, running a hand through his dark hair occasionally. This was taking a toll on a normally quiet and passive man. He wanted to help but he was still dealing with limitations on his body as well as he was sure Nick was.

Brian stared at his pager, jaw dropped. How could he have seen me? Surely I would have seen him then... He thought to himself. His next guess was that Nick had somehow messed up the page, but there were even the correct spaces in it.

“Brian?”

Brian looked up to see Kevin looking at him curiously. He hurriedly erased the page and stuck it back on his belt. The other guys had already gotten out of the van and were carrying the few things they had left up in Brian’s room and also all Brian’s stuff.

“Oh, sorry, I’m coming.” Thankfully they had managed to keep it a secret that Brian was being discharged today so their wasn’t a huge mob at the hotel. They ended up switching hotels just to be on the safe side, but to them it was six of one, half a dozen of another. They started to look alike after awhile.

Brian got out of the van slolwy, putting more attention into dialing a message back to Nick. ‘How.’

“I miss my house.” Nick muttered.

I sighed. “Don’t get me started.”

Nick looked at me in mild surprise. Okay so there was more of an edge in my voice than I had meant to come out. I was just nervous and I wanted Nick to be at least somewhat happy with this place.

“Sorry, it’s not that bad. I’m just getting used to this.” He said quietly.

“It’s all good.” I smiled reassuringly at him. He returned the smile and then his attention was drawn to the Little Mermaid again. I narrowed my eyes at the grin that appeared on his face. “You better not be messing around on there!”

He gave me that all too familiar innocent look that made most girls melt. “Nice try Carter. Doesn’t work on me.” Unfortunately my voice didn’t come out as mean sounding as I was aiming for though. I just shook my head in resigantion.

He gave me a look of mock horror. “Who’s Carter? My name is Jack Carpenter.”

My eyes widened at my mistake. “Whoops...”

“Yeah, whoops is right, gimme your cell phone. And by the way, why do you get one and I don’t?” He stuck his lower lip and and I snickered.

“Yours is coming, you brat. Amy didn’t have time to reconfigure two of them so they can’t be traced or picked up on. We have a PO box that it is going to be delivered to within the next couple days.” I explained handing him my cell. “What did he say?”

“’How?’” Nick grinned again as he typed out another message.

“’How’ what?” I countered, but he ignored me. Right before we went into the small office I stopped cold.

“What’s wrong?” Nick flipped the phone shut and stuck it in his pocket.

I chose to ignore that for now. “When I came in here the first time I filled out an application in our names just in case because they always do a credit check and they would check our rental history and stuff. What if it comes up blank? We are so screwed!” I fretted.

“Whoa, take it easy. We won’t know until we find out.” Nick rested a hand on my shoulder.

I groaned. “Go figure, you’ve never had to mess with this shit before.”

He laughed. “Thank God.”

I just shook my head and we walked inside. A middle-aged man sat at the desk and offered a pleasant greeting.

“Hi, my name is Katie Allen, I was in here the other day and filled out an application. This is uh...my uh...”

“I’m Jack Carpenter.” Nick stuck his hand out, giving me a look out of the corner of his eye.

“Oh, that’s right. Let me check.” The man turned around and rifled through a file cabinet.

“You’re going to have to do better than that, dumbass.” Nick whispered.

“Shuddup.” I hissed back kicking him.

“Ah, yes here it is. Well y’all have been approved. You both have excellent credit and your rental history has been spotless. Not one mark in the past three years you have been together. That’s pretty good. All I need you to do is fill this out and I need a $150 deposit and I can show you to y’alls place.” The man placed a piece of paper in front of us on the desk.

Three years of being together?! I looked at Nick and he looked like he was trying not to laugh. I just stood there like an idiot so he grabbed the pen out of my hand and started signing his new name in the various places.

Only a few minutes later the man escorted us around the side of the complex and up the stairs to apartment 237. He handed both of us or keys and told us to let him know if we needed anything or had any problems.

“Well here goes...” Nick stated as he unlocked the door and swung it open. I reached around him and flipped on the light.

It was moderately sized. It was actually about the same size as the apartment I had shared with Kyung. I felt a pang in my heart when I thought of that. I hadn’t talked to her since this all happened. Everything happened so fast that I didn’t even have time to call her. I wouldn’t be able to tell her anyway about what was really going on and I hated to lie. She had to be so devastated by now. I was going to have to page Brian to get ahold of her and let her know I was okay. I shook it off and put my attention back to the room.

“Well?” I looked at Nick anxiously.

“It’ll do. Ya know, that guy is gonna wonder why we have a two bedroom apartment if we are ‘together’.” His voice carried from the tiny kitchen he had wandered to.

I walked into the hallway that had both rooms. They were right across from each other which was sort of odd since most apartments had the rooms on opposite sides. Then it dawned on me. “He probably thinks that is gonna be the baby’s room!” Nick’s head whipped around so fast I thought it would snap.

“Baby?!” He choked.

I about died laughing. Literally doubled over, holding the side of the wall, uncontrollable laughing. The look on his face was priceless. Between breaths I explained my theory about the location of the room. His eyes grew even wider and he shook his head.

“Okay,” I said, composing myself. “We’ve got a lot to do. We need to get some cheap furniture, food, and we both need clothes. Where do you want to hit first? Mall or used furniture store?”

Nick’s eyes grew wide again. “How about I let you do that stuff and I will hide out here?” He asked hopefully.

“No dice Carpenter. Mall then?” I smirked at the look on his face. This was going to be so weird for him, going out and blending in with the rest of the world.

“How did I let you talk me into this?” He muttered as we headed back out the door.

“Could be worse. You could be all on your own about this.” I giggled at the look of horror on his face.

“Okay okay, but at least I would be free of your ass keeping me in line.” He grinned to show he was just playing around.

“Ha ha ha.” I retorted dryly as I locked the door behind us. “Before we go anywhere we are stopping for food. I’m starving.”

“Sounds good, but I am driving!” Before I could react, he grabbed the keys out of my hand and darted away as I lunged at him.

“You punk!” I hollered, tearing after him. Okay, between the two of us there was never going to be a dull moment.

“Yeah, but this isn’t really normal to you either, is it? I mean, you are used to being mobbed since you were what, thirteen? And now suddenly you aren’t. Go figure, it’s going to be a little weird for you till you get at least somewhat used to it.” I said gently. I didn’t know what to say about missing the guys because there wasn’t anything we could do about it. I had to admit, I did too. I missed Howie’s support and quiet compassion. I missed the feisty ribbing I would exchange with AJ whenever we got the chance. I even missed Kevin acting all “father-like.” Of course I missed Brian probably the most. I had gotten used to spending about every breakfast in his room, plus the other random times during the day. He was way to easy to talk to and one of the few in my life that knew some of my secrets. Not to mention he helped me keep Nick in line. I had to smile at the last thought cause it did take both of us.

“What?”

I was interrupted from my thoughts when I looked up from my own now-mushed fry that was in my hand. Nick was watching my expression.

“You just went from a really sad look so grinning all smugly. What’s that all about?” He asked.

I shook my head.

“Don’t give me that.” He said warningly.

Now I laughed. “Okay fine, geez. Just cause I can badger you to death to tell me something doesn’t mean you can do it to me too.” I teased. Then my smile faded a little. “I was just thinking about what you said, I guess. I miss em too.” Geez, if I did, I couldn’t imagine how bad he must.

“We’ll get through this.” Nick patted my hand.

“Damn straight. Ready for the furniture place?” I had to keep from smiling at the look on his face.

“Why there first? Are you sure I can’t just go back to the hotel?” He was almost whining.

“Okay, but don’t complain when I pick you out one of those girly daybeds with pink sheets and a lacy dust ruffle.” I smirked when his jaw dropped.

“You wouldn’t!” He exclaimed.

“Try me hun.” I gloated at him, then grabbed my tray and drink cup and walked calmly over to the trash bin.

He scooped up his stuff and followed behind me, grumbling all the way. I was greatly amused, and even managed to forget about the high level of stress we were under. The trip to the furniture store was an absolute blast and I was in seventh heaven. I loved furniture and furniture shopping. At first I was trying to get stuff that was the absolute cheapest, but Nick assured me I didn’t have to be looking at the shabbiest stuff in there. I think he was already frustrated that we were looking at used furniture, but there was no way we could come to our “new home” with a bunch of new fancy furniture. We each got a bed and a dresser, a small kitchen table with a few chairs, a comfy couch, coffee table and a TV table. The store was going to deliver it all the next day which meant we were going to get to spend our first night on the floor. Fun...

The mall was a madhouse. It seemed like all the teenagers in the city were there and as soon as we stepped in we both tensed up. I know I did and I was equally as sure that Nick did and it made me wonder if we were sort of bouncing off each other.

“You okay with this?” I whispered.

Nick nodded uncertainly.

“Okay then, we can just start walking and stop in any store that we see that we want to go into. None of my clothes fit anymore and I don’t even know what happened to them anyway and you can’t wear yours. That would look weird, your clothes suddenly all disappearing when you ‘aren’t with us anymore’. Not to mention, if anyone is attentive enough to remember anything you ever wore...” I rambled.

“‘K.” Nick said, his eyes scanning the people that passed by. Of course, no one paid us a second glance. It was weird.

Things were fine in the first couple stores. We decided we didn’t want to split up so we took turns going into whatever stores looked appealing. By the third store, a very crowded American Eagle, things got rough. I had wandered to the girls’ side and was looking at some shirts when the tension hit me with a sudden fierceness. I turned quickly and looked around for Nick. When I saw him, my heart leapt into my throat.

“Nick, what’s wrong?” I blurted before thinking to use his alias. He was darting his eyes back and forth and breathing really fast.

“Need...to get...outta here...” He gasped, brushing by me.

“Shit!” I exclaimed softly, feeling his panic. A few heads turned our way as he rushed out of the store and I ran to catch up with him. Once we got outside of it, I pulled him to a bench off to the side and we both sank onto it. He leaned forward, putting his head in his hands, trying to breathe a little calmer. I didn’t say anything yet, just put my hand on his back and rubbed it softly.

“Sorry...” He finally said, barely audible.

“Don’t be. This was way too much. I should have known better than to try to come here at this time of day. I wasn’t really thinking.” Okay, I felt really bad.

“I don’t even know what happened. One minute I was fine, getting clothes...Then all of a sudden this girl looked at me and I thought she recognized me and I panicked.” He shook his head.

“Hun come on, a lot has happened in the past few days and you’ve got so much on you right now. It’s no wonder that this happened. Come on, we’ve already got some stuff and that will be enough for now. We can come back when it’s not so busy.” I suggested.

“Okay, but we still need to go to Walmart. We need the basics.” He said, sounding a lot calmer.

I nodded and we gathered our bags and headed to the car. Walmart was a breeze and even kinda entertaining. We got some “basics” like towels, kitchen stuff, some munchies, some pillows and blankets, a small stereo (for now) and two alarm clocks, toiletries, and some other odds and ends. We looked in the clothing area and found a few things like sweats and a couple tee shirts. For the hell of it we headed to the toy aisle and goofed around like a couple of ten year olds. Last, but not least, we went to the electronics area and got a television and a few CDs. I let Nick do all the check writing because I knew I would have a heart attack if I saw how much we had spent today.

Finally we were more than ready to go home. We were both ready to relax a little bit and watch some sitcoms on TV with a bowl of parmesan and popcorn. Neither one of us talked very much during the drive, each wrapped up in our own thoughts. Luckily when we got to the complex parking lot there was a space almost right in front of our apartment, making it easier to haul in all our stuff.

A half hour later we had arranged our blankets and pillows in front of the TV and had some popcorn in the microwave. “I’m changing.” I announced as I walked into my bare bedroom. My bags were sitting in the middle of the floor since I didn’t even have any hangers yet to hang my stuff up on. I could smell the popcorn so I picked up the pace before Nick got to all of it without me. When I walked out back into the living room I felt 25 lbs lighter. It was great.

“Whoa.” Nick glanced up from the bag of popcorn that he had just retrieved from the microwave.

I laughed. “Yeah that body suit makes quite the difference doesn’t it? I got pretty used to it, and now I feel weird like this. Almost like I could just start flying or something.”

“Ha! You probably could, lightweight!” He snickered.

“Ha ha.” I said dryly. “I can still take you.”

He widened his eyes then laughed. I watched as he proceeded to dump the parmesan on the popcorn and I was almost drooling. It’d been forever since I had this. He caught my look and turned away, arms wrapped protectively around the popcorn.

“None for you, Kat.” He said over his shoulder.

“Kat?” I asked, slowly advancing on the popcorn.

“Yeah...” He inched away.

I hissed at him and he cracked up. “You best share or I am gonna rip your arms off and beat you with them!” I threatened.

He laughed harder and darted into the living room, dropping in front of the TV. I followed suit and plopped down next to him. Before he could react I grabbed a huge handful and shoved it all in my mouth. He watched me in amusement and started to laugh all over again.

“Whfa sho hunnie?” I tried to ask.

“You pig.” He shook his head at me.

I jumped up. “I’m going to go get a newspaper. They had one of those things by the mailboxes. Be right back okay?”

Nick looked worried. “It’s dark though.”

“Nick come on, it’s not Lizz anymore remember?” I reminded him.

“You aren’t wearing your body suit.” He countered.

“Yeah, but like you said, it’s dark, who’s gonna notice? And I am just getting a paper.” I argued.

“Okay okay, but hurry back.” He relented.

I grabbed a handful of the change that Nick had taken from his pocket set on the counter before breezing out the door. I heard him call out “hey!” before I shut it and snickered to myself. I felt kinda weird going out in public without the bodysuit on, like I was breaking a major rule or something. Actually I kind of was, but I was also wearing black sweat pants and a dark sweatshirt so you wouldn’t really be able to tell anyway. There was only one guy at his mailbox anyway and I ignored him as I walked over to the newspaper stand and fed some change into it. Only, when I went to pull up on the little door it got stuck.

“Damn it.” I muttered. I jerked on the handle, but it wasn’t budging. Then I heard a deep laugh from behind me.

“Having some trouble there?”

My blood ran cold at that voice and I couldn’t even move. I was struck by paralyzing fear and all I could do was stand there helplessly.

Marcus.

He walked around the side of me, looking at the newspaper bin. I stared at him then looked all around, hoping to find someone else near. The area was poorly lit and there wasn’t a single person outside. I looked back to Marcus.

“Are you okay?” He gave me a funny look. Not a look of recognition, but a blank stare with a curious look to it.

He didn’t recognize me!!! My legs went weak with the sudden realization and only then did I realize I was trembling. “Uh, yeah, I just don’t feel very good I guess.”
I said softly.

“Yeah, you look a little pale, you oughta be inside getting some rest.” He said almost nicely. It made me wonder what he meant by “being inside.” Holy shit, what if he was trying to hit on me?! I staggered backwards.

“You’re right, I think I better be going now.” I stepped back again and then turned around.

“Yeah, but aren’t you forgetting something?” He called.

I choked back a sob. Here it came, I was dead. The whole thing was ruined and I had just put Nick in danger. Again. I turned to face him, shaking like a leaf.

“You forgot your paper.” He smiled at me, handing out the paper he had managed to dislodge from the bin.

“Uh, thanks.” I took it with a shaking hand. I did manage to smile before I turned away and started walking. I purposely went in the opposite direction so he wouldn’t know where to find me. Besides I couldn’t go back inside just yet. I was an absolute wreck and I didn’t want to tell Nick about this just yet. He had already had a rough day and I didn’t want to freak him out any worse.

I was still shaking so bad I thought my legs would give out from under me. I’d managed to keep myself from crying at least. He lived here?! How could I have managed to pick the one apartment complex in the whole damn city that he lived in? And how did he even afford it here? He was still wanted by the FBI and everything. But, now that I thought of it, he looked kind of different too. I didn’t recognize him, it was his voice that clued me in. I was still shocked he didn’t recognize me, but I didn’t even look like myself anymore so I guess he shouldn’t have been able to. Hell, Nick and I were in the same elevator as the guys and they didn’t notice either one of us so Marcus shouldn’t have either. When I was convinced that he was gone, I headed back to the apartment.

“What the hell took you so long?!” Nick stared at me when I walked in the door.

“Uh, I wanted to look around a bit.” I lied.

“Bullshit. What’s wrong Lizz, you look upset.” He said a little more softly.

“Ah, its just I was thinking about everything.” I tried to cover.

He didn’t look convinced, but let it drop for now. I dropped the paper on the counter and wrapped myself up in the blanket on the floor. Nick watched me for a minute, but didn’t say anything. Halfway through the next sitcom my eyes started to grow heavy and before I knew it, I was asleep.

I shot straight up in my covers and looked wildly around the room. What had woken me up? The TV had been turned off and the only light in the room was coming from the small sliver under the bathroom door that we had left on.

There it was again! It was at the door. I glanced at Nick, who was sleeping a couple feet away from me. I crawled over to him and shook his shoulder. “Nick, wake up!” I hissed.

The doorknob jiggled and I heard the familiar sound of the lock turning. I jumped to my feet unsure of what to do. We didn’t even have anything that could be used as a weapon. Hell, we didn’t even have any kitchen knives! Before I could move, the door flew open and Marcus stood there with a malicious grin on his face. I moved so I was standing between him and Nick. I wished he would wake up.

“You thought you could fool me with that cheapass disguise? Sorry Lizz, it didn’t work and now you are Carter are going to pay. Is that him behind you? Ha! Maybe I should kill him in his sleep. Or I could kill you first and let him watch helplessly. What do you think?” He sneered at me.

“You aren’t touching him you bastard.” I said in a low voice. At least it was dark and he couldn’t see how bad I was shaking.

Then everything happened at once. Nick woke up. Marcus lunged at me. I screamed.
Marcus had ahold of my arms and was trying to pull me away from where Nick was.

“What the hell?? Oh my god... Lizz!” He exclaimed as his expression went from confusion to shock to horror.

I struggled against Marcus as he pulled out a gun and aimed it at Nick. “Noooo!!!” I screamed as it fired.

I jumped about a mile when I felt the gentle touch on my shoulder. When I turned around, my shock doubled. “Brian!” I gasped.

He blinked. “Are you okay? You were dreaming or something and you cried out.”

I nodded numbly. I didn’t miss the look that had passed through his face. A look that showed that I had caught him off guard. I had said his name as if I knew him, not as a fan and he immediately picked up on that. My mind immediately went back to that little nightmare and I shuddered. This was the second one already. Yeah, I was prone to nightmares, but sheesh. I looked around the cafeteria to reassure myself that Marcus was nowhere to be seen. He wasn’t.

“Are you sure?” Brian gazed at me with those blue eyes of his. For a moment, all I could do was stare right back into them. They were so full of loss and sadness that my heart ached. Like a window to his soul. And here he was, all concerned about me. Go figure, that was Brian for ya.

“A little better now, thanks. How are you doing?” I said softly.

Brian’s eyes widened a little bit. “You...you...” He stammered.

“Look like Claire Daines? Yeah I have been told that before.” I said quickly. Okay honestly I have been told that although I don’t see it. Although with this short blond cut, maybe I looked more like her now.

“I guess.” He said reluctantly.

“Are you in a hurry? You want to sit with me for awhile?” I asked, my voice hesitant.

He raised an eyebrow. “Sure, my friend isn’t due to pick me up for another few minutes and he will no doubt be late.” He pulled up a chair across from me and sat down slowly. He never took his eyes off me and I could tell he was studying me closely.

I wasn’t sure whether or not to tell him who I was. On one hand, was that playing with fire? On the other hand, I was a bit of a pyromaniac if you want to use the same metaphor. Besides, did he know already? He seemed suspicious, but I wasn’t sure.

“That must have been a rough nightmare, you were pretty upset.” Brian commented.

“Yeah, a repeating one to boot.” I agreed. I thought back to the few times I had fallen asleep in his room and woken up from a nightmare so maybe he was remembering that too.

“How are you really doing, Brian?” I asked gently.

Again, I got that perplexed look. Like he wanted to guess that it could be me, but didn’t want to risk it and wasn’t sure of himself enough to find a way to hint at it.

“Well, I am sure you know much of what has gone on seeing as how it’s been in the news and everything. I miss him more than words can say. We have been pretty much together for almost 10 years and now suddenly he isn’t. I feel lost.” He stopped, his voice choking. He bowed forward, trying to compose himself.

My heart ached for him so bad. I hated to see him hurt. “He misses you too hun.” I whispered.

Brian’s head shot up like a rubberband. “Lizz?” He whispered, almost afraid to believe it.

I nodded, my eyes filling with tears.

“Oh no, don’t cry. Hey, shhhhhh.” He soothed, putting his hand on mine.

“It’s okay, people might think I was just a hormonal fan or something.” I laughed a little through my tears. He did too which made me feel better.

He shook his head, looking me over again. I can’t believe how different you look.”

“Me neither.” I chuckled.

Brian looked around. “Is he here?”

“Yup, in his speech therapy. I think he was hoping to run into you and I am sure he will at some point, but you know how risky this is? We’ve got to not make a habit of this, but somehow we should find a way to sneak one of you to see the other one.” I said, keeping my voice low.

Brian’s eyes lit up and I couldn’t help but grin. “How is he coping with all this?”

My smile dropped. “Okay, except he had a seizure this morning. I found his pills and he has been skipping. I let him down and let you down. I should have been staying on top of his ass better than that.”

Brian shook his head. “Don’t blame yourself. Do know why he skipped?”

I shrugged holding back a sigh. “I didn’t get a chance to ask him. I brought it up in the waiting room, but he got called in before he could answer. Believe me, I intend on finding out why and I’ll get him back on track. Besides he knows I will skip mine if he does.”

“No Lizz. We don’t need both of you sick. Please take care of yourself and he needs to too.” Brian pleaded. He saw the effectiveness in Nick and I’s ongoing plan to skip whenever the other did, but he didn’t like it at all.

“I will and so will he. Crap, AJ’s coming. I guess this is it...” I said reluctantly.

Brian nodded. “You take care and stay strong. And for Nick too. Remember what I said, you guys can pull each other through anything, this included. You’re both in my prayers.” He whispered, squeezing my hand.

I desperately willed the tears that had formed in my eyes not to fall. “Thank you. And you are also. Believe me, we draw strength knowing you are here and being strong.”

“Hey bud, you ready to go?” AJ smacked his hand lightly on Brian’s shoulder. He tossed me a curious look. “Hey.”

“Hi.” I whispered back. He looked like shit. His eyes were red and he looked like he hadn’t been sleeping all that well. I felt a pang of guilt, but there was nothing I could do. The man couldn’t keep a secret worth anything and letting anyone else in on this was too big a risk. I hated it, but I wasn’t going to go up against Kevin on this one.

“What’s going on?” AJ looked skeptically from Brian to me, noticing the high levels of emotion.

“Oh, her brother is in the hospital and we were just talking for a few minutes.” He shifted his gaze to me. “What did you say his name was again?”

“Oh, uh, Jack.” I stammered.

Brian scrawled a short note on the napkin and shoved it at me. He stood up and I did with him. “Thank you. He’s a big fan and I am sure an autograph would really cheer him up.” I said, my voice threatening to get all shaky.

“Anything to help.” Brian nodded with a wink. On impulse I leaned over and gave him a hug. He seemed surprised at first, but returned the tight squeeze. It shouldn’t have looked weird cause fans always wanted a hug.

They both went on their way. A last reassuring smile from Brian and a tired one from AJ and they were gone. Okay, not gonna cry. I glanced at my watch and decided I could head back to where Nick was. When I got there he was already sitting in the waiting room. He still looked exhausted, but not as bad as before. I smiled, knowing how to cheer him up. The napkin was in my pocket and I hadn’t read it.

“Hey hun, how are ya?” I asked softly.

“Beat.”

“I have something that might make you feel a little better. If I let you have it, will you promise me something?” I said quietly. The waiting room was nearly empty. Just one elderly woman and her husband, but still.

“What?” He gave me an unsure look.

“That when we get home, we can talk about this med issue?” Geez, that sounded weird. When we get home...

“Like I was going to get out of that anyway. Go on, what’s going to cheer me up?” Nick urged.

I dug the napkin out of my pocket and handed it to him. The smile that appeared on his face melted my heart.

Vinnie cocked his head at his friend. “What kind of fun?”

“Well I was thinking about going to a certain hotel tonight and paying a visit to a certain Littrell. Just to stir some shit up. Give him a scare ya know?” Marcus cackled, his voice dripping with malice.

Vinnie grinned back. “That could be fun. Got any ideas yet?”

Marcus took another swig of beer. “Nope, I figured I’d let you come up with something good.”

“Marc, you are turning into one lazy bastard you know that?” Vinnie shook his head. “But since I am such a nice guy, I’ll do just that. That little punk’s gonna be pissin his pants after what I come up with.” He boasted.

“That’s my boy.” Marcus knocked fists with Vinnie as they plotted their plan.

The van lurched forward, causing me to lose my balance. Since I couldn’t
put my hands out to balance myself, I fell sideways. I braced myself for
the van floor to hurt, but instead I landed against something a little
softer. It jarred my newly sore (again) ribs anyway and I let out a muffled
cry. Losing my grip on my fight to stay calm didn’t help matters at all and
my heart pounded harder. I choked back a sob. The muffler on the van was
messed up because it was making a lot of noise and I could barely hear
Brian. Of course his voice was muffled too. I tried to right myself and
after much maneuvering I managed to sit with my back against the back of the
van wall, my knees drawn up to my chest. I scarcely heard shuffling and
then a shoulder pressed up against mine. Instinctively I tensed, but
quickly realized it was Brian. I shifted my bound hands to the left and
found his. He returned the squeeze and the panic eased just a little. Of
course, despair filled its place. Despair from the situation Brian and I
were in and especially what was going to happen when Marcus found out that
Nick was still alive.

“No! ‘If and when you can’?! Nick, you can’t go! You know as well as I
do what is going to happen when Marcus sees you. My God, why couldn’t you
have just stayed away like I told you too?!” Kevin ranted, desperately.

Nick held onto the wall in front of the door. “Kev, Marcus’ friend said
that if I didn’t do exactly what he said, he would kill Lizz or Brian. I
can’t let that happen.”

“What’s to say he will stick to his word and won’t harm them if you do
surrender yourself?” Kevin reasoned.

“I don’t know, but I am not taking that chance.” Nick said flatly. He was
scared to go to Marcus’ room, but he was even more scared of the
consequences. The seizure had stopped, but he was still shaking, probably
from the exhaustion. “Trust me, it’ll work out. Besides you know you can’t
just leave AJ in here. I have to do this.” Nick tried to convince Kevin,
along with reassuring himself.

Kevin looked pained. He glanced at the door and then at AJ. “Call me as
soon as you can. I’ll figure something out.”

Nick nodded shakily and slipped out the door, still holding onto the wall.
Kevin’s heart was beating wildly and he wondered if he had done the right
thing. His mind racing, he rushed to AJ’s side and started to pat his face
gently.

“Come on buddy. I need you to wake up. Wake up man.” He
coaxed.

AJ moaned and reached a hand up to the back of his head. “Wha- what
happened?” He croaked.

“AJ, you were hit over the head. Do you remember anything?” Kevin asked
anxiously.

AJ wrinkled up his face. “That maintenance guy, he wasn’t
really...holy
shit! That other guy...” His eyes opened a little wider and he winced at
the movement.

Kevin sighed. “It’s a long story and I don’t have time to explain it to
you now. Nick is alive. He and Lizz have been living under aliases
to hide from Marcus. I’ll explain later, but right now he is in trouble and
so is Brian and Lizz.” Kevin explained hurriedly. “Marcus’ friend
kidnapped Brian and Lizz and told Nick to surrender himself to Marcus or Bri
and Lizz die. Nick just left for his room.”

“That sonofabitch!” AJ started to sit up.

“Whoa, you got hit pretty hard. Take it easy.” Kevin urged, pulling AJ up
carefully.

“You let him go in there?!” AJ glared at Kevin accusingly.

“What else could I do? That guy told Nick if anything goes out of plan,
Brian and Lizz will get killed!” Kevin defended. He grabbed a new
washcloth and put it on the back of AJ’s head. The other one was on the
floor, tinged red.

AJ flinched away from the pressure Kevin put on his head. “And Nick is
going to get killed by Marcus! Let’s go!” He took the washcloth from
Kevin and held it himself. Then he stood up, but started to teeter.

Kevin grabbed him. “You stay here and call Howie. I’m going to find
Nick.”

AJ nodded and picked up the phone. He didn’t even bother calling
Howie’s room, but dialed his cell instead. Satisfied that AJ was staying put
and that Howie would be on his way, Kevin hurried out the door. AJ groaned
when Howie’s voice mail clicked on after the first ring. He was on the damn
thing! “Howie! Get down to my room now! We have a big pr--”

AJ was cut off by a loud crash and yelling. It was coming from right
across the hall. Without thinking twice, he slammed the phone down and made
his way to the room.

Nick nervously went through the slightly ajar door. He went into the small
living room of the suite and into the bedroom. Marcus was sitting with his
back to him, on the edge of the bed. This better work... Nick
thought to himself.

“Yo, Marcus. You okay man?” He tried to make his voice have a sharp edge
to it. It was hard seeing as how it wasn’t very stable.

Marcus turned around slowly. “Who the hell are you? Where’s Vinnie? And
where’s my girl?”

Nick resisted the urge to hit him. “Your girl?” He questioned carefully.

“Yeah I was gonna fuck her six ways till Sunday. She fuckin left.”
Marcus noted sourly. “You didn’t answer my first question. Who the
hell are you?”

Nick clenched his fists. “Ah, I’m uh, Vinnie’s cousin, Frankie.” Nick
thought quickly. Soonest chance he got, he was taking Marcus down.

“Vinnie doesn’t have any cousins.” Marcus stated.

“Yeah, well we don’t talk all that much. He called me the other day and
told me what was going on. He figured I would have a few good ideas on how
to have even more fun with y’alls friends.” Nick bluffed. He decided to
stroke Marcus’ ego. “Nice work on Carter, by the way. You are quite the
pro at this shit aint ya?”

Marcus grinned. If this guy knew about him killing Carter, then he must be
okay. Vin wouldn’t tell just anyone. “He left awhile ago to go fuck around
with that skinny little freak and probably Carter’s pathetic friend. Man,
you shoulda seen the bitch I had in here. I woulda shared her. Her sister
was coming up too, I wonder what the hell happened to her, but when I see
her again...” Marcus trailed off, leaning into the bed.

With a sudden rush a adrenaline and a vicious cry, Nick leapt at Marcus.
“I AM NOT GOING TO LET YOU FUCKING HURT MY FRIENDS EVER AGAIN! THIS FUCKING
ENDS NOW YOU FUCKING PIECE OF SHIT!” He screamed. Marcus was taken
completely by surprise and Nick used that to his advantage. Blow after
blow, he aimed at Marcus. Nick felt a crunch when his fist connected with
Marcus’ nose. Marcus yowled in pain, but finally regained his senses. He
used his massive size to throw Nick off of him and began his own attack.
They both struggled to their feet.

“WHAT THE HELL?!” Marcus screamed at Nick.

Nick didn’t answer. The adrenaline fled him as quick as it came and he
braced himself on the edge of the desk that was in there. Marcus bounded
over to him and punched him hard in the gut. “I WANT ANSWERS!” He yelled,
the pounding in his head from the hangover made him even angrier.

“Fuck you.” Nick whispered.

Marcus snarled and lunged at him, attempting to strangle him. Nick coughed
and gasped, but couldn’t get Marcus off.

Just then the door burst open and Kevin flew in. He came to a dead stop
when he saw Marcus’ hands around Nick’s neck. “LET HIM GO!” He bellowed.

Marcus jumped back in surprise. “You! What are you doing in here.” The
cloudiness from his hangover wouldn’t let him make the connection.

Nick struggled to a sitting position on the floor, his hands wrapped around
his already bruising neck. He removed one hand to wipe the blood from his
mouth.

Kevin’s eyes widened and then narrowed into angry slits. “Get away from
him.” He said evenly.

Immediately the door flew open again and AJ burst through. “Nick?” He
said uncertainly, staring at him.

Marcus’ head whipped around. “Nick? It isn’t possible. What the
fuck IS GOING ON HERE?!” His voice raised as he darted his face between
Nick’s and AJ and Kevin’s in the doorway.

Nick still didn’t say anything.

“Holy shit. It is you, isn’t it? I already killed you once! I guess I
will just have to do it again!” He lunged at Nick once again, attacking him
with all his might.

“NO!” Kevin and AJ both lunged for Marcus. Kevin reached first and tried
to pull Marcus off. He finally got a good hold and yanked him off Nick.
Kevin wrapped his arm around Marcus’ throat, trying to cancel his
resistance. It didn’t take much. Marcus was still suffering from the
effects of the alcohol and promptly passed out. AJ locked the door and then
Kevin made him sit down on the other bed. AJ argued, but finally gave in
when he realized his head felt like it was going to explode. Not to mention
the blood that was everywhere, most of it Nick’s, was making him queasy.
Kevin tended to the unconscious Nick, lifting him onto the other bed. He
was a mess and would be in a helluva amount of pain when he woke up, but
nothing seemed to be life-threatening. Howie got to the room about 15
minutes later. Kevin briefly explained the whole situation. AJ and Howie
had a good shock, but both of them tried to focus on the matter at hand.
They couldn’t go to the police because Brian and Lizz were still in
jeopardy. All they could do was wait.

“Damn, you two are pathetic aren’t ya?” Vinnie mocked. His voice grew
closer and I knew he was coming towards us. Brian let out a muffled yelp
and the shoulder I was leaning on was suddenly jerked away. I started
yelling in protest, but the tape prevented it from being intelligible.

“Shut up!” I didn’t even know what hit me, but out of nowhere, I was
backhanded across the face.

I whimpered, but didn’t make another sound. Brian was yelling behind his
gag too, but the sound was growing farther and farther away. Where was
Vinnie taking him? I dared not move for fear of another smack. That and
the fact, I had no idea where we were. I forced myself not to make a sound.
A door slammed not too far away and then all I heard were the nighttime
crickets and acadas.

“You gonna cooperate with me now?” The voice made me jump and I cursed my
blindfold. My nerves were shot and I hated not knowing what was going on.
I cried out when a rough arm circled around mine and pulled me out of the
van. I stumbled and would have fallen, but Vinnie yanked me up again. My
legs felt like jello, but I willed myself not to fall again. He shoved me
forward and again, I had to fight panic. One of my biggest, and probably
most irrational, fears was having to walk where I couldn’t see. Even if I
was in a big open gym, if it was dark, I couldn’t move. Almost like I was
afraid something would magically appear in front of me. Something I would
hurt myself on or a huge hole I would fall into. Crazy, but it was a
paralyzing fear nonetheless. My knees locked and I couldn’t move.

“What the hell is your problem?!” Vinnie growled as he shoved me.
Panicked tears started to fall and I crumpled to the ground. “Oh for...”
He grumbled. I felt him physically pick me up and carry me. I didn’t know
whether to be relieved or even more scared. We climbed a couple steps and
went into what I assumed was a house. We twisted a couple times and then he
opened another door. We went down some stairs and then he dumped me out of
his arms. I cried out again, but another pair of arms steadied me before I
fell.

“You deal with her. She is too much of a pain in the ass, I am gonna kill
her if I have to spend another second with her.” Vinnie snarled. I heard
footsteps fade away and the door slam.

“Lizz, sh-h-h-h. You’re okay.” Brian soothed. I felt his hands work the
ropes around mine. A moment later I was freed. I immediately pulled the
blindfold off and then ripped the tape from my mouth. That made me wince
too. Of course that might have been from my now slightly swollen
cheekbone.

“Brian...” I choked out, tears coming again.

He wrapped his arms around me. “It’s going to be okay. We’ll get through
this. Lizz, look at me.” He pulled back and tipped my chin so I was
looking at him. “We have to be strong okay?”

I nodded. “Where are we?” My voice was barely above a whisper.

“I don’t have any idea. A basement as far as I can tell.” He replied,
looking around.

I looked around too. A single light hung from the ceiling. The floor was
cement and there were no windows. Brian and I were both sitting on an old
cot. A rough looking army blanket was folded at one end, a stained pillow
at the other. Off to the side of the room was a half flight of steps going
up, I guess to the rest of the house. I ducked my head down and rubbed my
sore wrists. Rope burns, how nice.

“I’m sorry for falling apart like that.” I said softly to Brian.

“No need to apologize. I wasn’t too far behind.” He smiled a little.

“I just lost it though. Between not being able to see or move or anything
and then...I dunno, I have this crazy phobia where I can’t walk where I
can’t see.” I explained somewhat sheepishly.

“It isn’t that crazy. Who would like to walk where they couldn’t see?”
Brian reassured me.

I explained to him the open gym thing, which had actually happened many
years ago. He laughed a little when I told him that and that made me smile
too. “So now what?”

“I don’t know. I’m sure we will find out soon enough.” Brian sighed. He
looked paler than a ghost and I could plainly see the toll this was taking
on him. Couldn’t those idiots have at least waited till he was a little
better?

Neither one of us spoke for awhile, but finally I had to say what I
couldn’t get out of my mind. “Do you think Nick is okay?”

Brian actually winced at the question. “Can you feel anything?”

I almost smiled. He was a little unsure about the whole link thing, but he
asked me if I was feeling anything pretty often. I’d tried to ask myself
the same question, but I didn’t know. The almost-smile became a deep
frown.

“I don’t even know. I have been so scared since we got taken away and I
don’t know if it is all me or him too and we are bouncing off each other.
Wouldn’t be the first time that happened. I would like to think I could
feel it if...if he...” I couldn’t even finish the thought.

“Let’s not think about that okay?” Brian said softly.

I nodded.

The door flew open and banged up against the wall, causing us both to jump
at the loud sound. I was sitting closer to the door than Brian was, but he
immediately scooted over so he was between me and the door. I wasn’t happy
with that idea because if it came down to it, I would get between Vinnie and
any harm that he was going to inflict towards Brian.

“Time for a little reunion my friends.” Vinnie walked slowly towards us.
He had this horrible cocky grin, knowing we wouldn’t try anything.

“What do you mean?” Brian asked warily.

Vinnie whipped out his cell phone. “Time to call Marcus and have him bring
Carter here so he can join the fun. Maybe Freak will come so I can finish
up what I started on him.”

I narrowed my eyes and opened my mouth. Before I could utter a sound,
Brian reached a hand back and squeezed mine. Hard. Okay, okay, I’ll keep
my mouth shut...for now. He knew me too well.

Vinnie dialed a number and held the phone to his ear, all the while, his
grin growing bigger.

“No! You’ll have to kill me first!” I cried, my voice shaking. Vinnie’s blow had knocked me off my feet and I laid on the floor, my cheek burning. It was the same one he had hit earlier.

“I might do that.” Vinnie threatened, aiming the gun at me.

“No, please don’t. She’ll...” Brian pleaded, only to get cut off by Vinne.

“She’ll shut up is what she’ll do.” Vinnie snapped, still holding the gun at me. He cocked the lever and stepped over to where I had managed to pull myself to where I was at least sitting instead of laying down. I was paralyzed with fear as I watched him press the gun up against my forehead.

“NO!” Brian shouted, moving towards us, only to get knocked away from another blow from Vinnie.

“BOOM!” Vinnie shouted, causing me to jerk violently. He snickered and started to walk away. As he passed Brian, he kicked him spitefully in the side. “I think we are expecting company, stay out of trouble kiddies.” He sing-songed before he slammed the basement door behind him.

“Are you okay?” I whispered, crawling over to Brian.

He was laying on the ground still, one arm wrapped around his side. “Are you ever going to learn Lizz?” He asked wearily.

“I’m scared.” I whispered.

“I know, so am I.” Brian agreed softly.

~*~*~*~*~

Nick tried unsuccessfully to swallow the lump that had formed in his throat. He was riding in Jordan’s unmarked car with Kevin and Marcus. AJ and Howie were riding with McKnight in his unmarked car.

“What if something goes wrong?” Nick asked again.

Kevin sighed. Just like the first two times Nick asked that question, he didn’t know how to answer it. There was a very big possibility that something could go wrong. He was totally uncomfortable with the plan, but he knew that there was no other way around it. After all, he wasn’t even supposed to be there. Marcus was still out of it, cuffed in the back seat with Kevin. Nick twisted around in his seat.

“Well whatever happens, I don’t care as long as Brian and Lizz get out of there okay.” Nick stated stubbornly.

“We’re getting you out too.” Kevin said softly.

“Okay, we clear on the plan?” Jordan tried to keep any traces of how nervous he felt out of his voice. “Let’s go through it one more time. Carter, since you are supposed to be alone, you and Marcus will go in there. If things go as planned, Brian and Lizz should be released shortly after you go into the house. Then, we will go in after you.”

“What if they aren’t released?” Kevin countered.

Jordan suppressed a groan. “This is where it gets tricky. We don’t want to barge in there too soon. If Vinnie plans on releasing them and we show up too soon, it could endanger everyone. We will wait about 20 minutes for signs of them before going in. You both understand?”

Kevin and Nick nodded solemnly. Fifteen minutes later they were about four houses down from the address Vinnie had supplied. McKnight drove his car to four houses on the opposite side and parked. The tinted windows kept the three inside from being seen and nothing looked out of the ordinary. Jordan and Kevin hefted Marcus out of the car and leaned him up against the wooden fence that his the side of someone’s yard. Nick got out slowly, his movements stiff from the beating he took. Not to mention he hadn’t gotten enough rest to replenish his energy from the seizure. He looked exhausted still, but determined.

“Alright, we are going to go back to the car. As soon as we get in, try to wake Marcus up and tell him...”

“...we were brought by a taxi, I know, I know.” Nick cut Jordan off impatiently.

Jordan didn’t say anything, noting the stress the young man was under. “We will give you twenty minutes from when you get inside. If Brian and Lizz aren’t out, we are going in.”

Nick nodded. Kevin stepped forward and wrapped him in a quick hug. “Good luck Nick.” He said softly, his voice choked with emotion.

“Thanks.” Nick tried to smile, not only to reassure Kevin, but to reassure himself.

Kevin and Jordan walked back to the car, getting in silently. Jordan pulled into the driveway across the street and killed the engine.

“I have great misgivings about this.” Kevin said, rubbing his eyes, watching Marcus and Nick.

“Get up! Marcus wake up!” Nick nudged Marcus again.

Marcus groaned and finally opened his eyes. “What the hell is going on here?” He snarled. “Where the hell am I?”

Nick took a deep breath. “We are almost in front of Vinnie’s house. It’s after three am. Vinnie has Brian and Lizz and he said he will trade them for me. You win Marcus. When they are safe, you can do whatever you want with me.”

Marcus took a couple minutes to let it all digest. “And how did we get here?”

“Taxi.”

Marcus seemed satisfied with that reply. “Okay then Carter, what are we waiting for?” He pulled himself to his feet and Nick stood up with him. Without warning he pulled a knife out of his pocket and thrust it at Nick. “No playin any shit Carter.” He warned. Nick almost laughed. “I surrendered myself to you, doesn’t that pretty much say I am going to cooperate, dumbass?” He snapped.

Marcus let that one slide. “Let’s go.” They walked slowly towards the house and Marcus banged on the door.

A moment later, the door opened a crack and Vinnie poked his head out. “You two alone?”

“Yes.” Nick lied.

Vinne swung the door open and swooped his hand in greeting. “See what I tell you about drinking so much Marc? This has been such as hassle.” He turned and punched Nick. “That’s for the hassle. Your friends are a pain in the ass, especially Lizz.”

Nick didn’t reply, but rubbed his jaw gingerly.

“You know we aren’t turning them loose don’t you?” Vinnie sneered.

“What?! That was the deal. We are trading me for them!” Nick pleaded. “Please, let’s just stick with the plan.”

Marcus snorted. “Two for one isn’t even a fair trade. How about we let one of them go. Which one would you pick Carter?”

Nick visibly paled. “No...no, I can’t. You can’t make me choose.” He stammered.

Marcus and Vinnie both cracked up. “Oh don’t worry, neither one of them are leaving. I just wanted to see you shit your pants. ” Marcus smirked at how easily he managed to shake up Carter.

“Let’s take him to his friends and we can figure out our plan after that.” Vinnie suggested.

Marcus nodded and grabbed Nick’s arm roughly. Nick tried to remember every detail about the house he was in. At first it surprised him that they hadn’t bothered to blindfold him. Then his heart dropped when he realized he wouldn’t be leaving.

Brian and I had moved over to the cot as soon as Vinnie had left us. I was worried to death about Brian. He didn’t look like he was faring too well and Vinnie’s repeated blows didn’t help matters. The door banged open, startling us yet again

. “Got someone here who wants to see you!” Vinnie grinned as he came through the door. I held my breath and then gasped when Nick stumbled onto the landing. Marcus appeared behind him, grinning maliciously. Instinctively I shrank back.

“My God...” Brian murmured, getting up as fast as he could. Marcus gave another shove and Nick tumbled down the short flight of steps.

“Nick!” I cried, rushing towards him, my fear of Marcus forgotten. We both reached Nick and dropped down to him. The fall stunned him and he blinked repeatedly, trying to clear his vision.

My heart ached as my eyes fell on his bruises and scrapes. I brushed my fingers over his throat, dark bruises in the shape of fingers wrapping around it. “You bastard!” I hissed. “What did you do to him?” I glared up at Marcus.

When he got a look at me, his jaw dropped. “You’re Lizz?! Holy fuck, all this time...it was you!!”

I glared back up at him. “All along.” I agreed.

“Nick, come on buddy.” Brian had one of Nick’s hands, in his own. “Can you get up?” Brian was looking back and forth worriedly between Nick and the expression on Marcus’ face when he recognized me.

Vinnie looked shocked as well. “Wait wait wait! Is this the bitch you were talking about?!”

Marcus nodded wordlessly. Then he turned to Vinnie and began talking heatedly.

“Are...you guys...okay?” Nick whispered, the wind knocked out of him from the fall.

“We’re fine. We just have to find a way out of this mess.” Brian whispered.

“Nick, Vinnie has a gun. He...” I whispered urgently, but stopped, unable to finish.

Brian and I carefully pulled Nick up. “Marcus said he isn’t going to let you guys go.” Nick said, his voice full of despair. “The rest of the guys, plus two cops are waiting outside. They said they are coming in if you guys aren’t out there in twenty minutes.”

Brian widened his eyes. “I don’t have a good feeling about this.”

“Time for a little fun.” Marcus suddenly announced as he started walking down the stairs towards us. Before I could react he grabbed my arm, jerking me with him as he started back up the steps. “NO!” I cried, panicking.

“LET HER GO!” Nick hollered, charging at Marcus. I turned to see both him and Brian coming to my defense.

“I think not.” Vinnie stated as he jumped in front of Nick, gun pointed.

“Stop please! You got what you want. Don’t do this!” Nick pleaded. The look of horror in his eyes matched the terror I was feeling.

“Hey, I have a better idea. How about we let them watch!” Marcus laughed. He shoved me up against the wall of the basement, making me gasp. I struggled against him, but he was too big. “Come on Lizz, you know you want this.” He breathed in my face, pressing his body up against mine.

“No! Let me go!” I screamed. I managed to shift myself enough to get my foot free and I kicked his shin with all my might.

“Damn it!” He groaned. “You want it rough, do’s ya?” He grabbed at the shoulder of my maid’s uniform and yanked hard. The tear Nick had made earlier was suddenly twice as big and falling off my shoulder. I struggled harder, but when I looked up, I ceased all movement.

With Vinnie aiming his attention at keeping Nick from killing Marcus, Brian wasn’t being watched. With a yell of anger, Brian launched himself airborne at Vinnie, effectively knocking them both on the ground away from Nick. The gun went skidding across the floor. Because of Brian’s already weakened condition, he had hurt himself when they both crashed into the floor. Vinnie took full advantage and further used his fists to add to the damage. Nick grabbed Vinnie and yanked him off the already unconscious Brian. Nick held Vinnie by the shirt with one hand and punched him hard with the other.

“Brian!” I cried, shoving away from Marcus. Being too distracted with what was going on behind us, Marcus didn’t stop me from backing away. The gun was to our left on the ground and I lunged at it.

“Oh no you don’t!” Marcus snarled, lashing out his fist at me. He had something in his hand, but I didn’t see what it was. Then the pain became very real and I stumbled back. I looked down and was amazed to see a stripe of blood quickly form slightly diagonally across my ribcage. The pain of it made me dizzy and I reached me hand back to the wall behind me to catch myself.

“Lizz! Are you okay?” The panic in Nick’s voice scared me a little and I wondered how bad it was. I gingerly put my other hand over the growing red spot and to my dismay, it was flowing freely.

“I - I...” I gasped. I broke away from the gaze I held with Nick to see Marcus bending over and grabbing the gun.

Nick looked up from Vinnie’s slumped form and his eyes grew to saucers. Marcus had righted himself and was aiming the gun straight at Nick’s heart. “Say good-bye Carter.” He said flatly, pulling the trigger.

Without even realizing what I was doing, before Marcus had even aimed the gun, I was moving. I threw myself at Marcus and grabbed his arm just as the gun fired. I watched in horror as Nick crumpled to the ground, his face a mask of pain. Everything moved in slow motion and just before Nick hit the ground, his eyes met mine. Never, would I forget the look that was in his eyes, just before they closed. I don’t even know how to describe it, but it broke something deep inside of me.

“Nick! No!” Sobs choked my throat. “Oh God, please! NICK!”

Marcus stood there, unable to believe that he had just done it. He had fatally shot Carter. Just like that it’s all over, Marcus thought, staring in wonderment.

My body, coursing with rage and grief, took control of itself. I was merely trapped inside as it lunged again for the gun. This time, however, I made contact and my fingers wrapped around it. Marcus was caught totally off guard, but regained his senses quickly. We struggled for possession of the gun and I barely heard new voices behind me. Voices that screamed for Marcus to surrender the gun. Voices crying out in despair for my two fallen friends.

Somehow in the struggle of the gun, it ended up between us. And it went off. Marcus’ looked at me in shock then at the red stain that manifested on his chest. I stared back, not comprehending. But...how? My hand wasn’t even on the trigger. How could I have shot him? But there he was, falling to the ground, blood already pooling around him. I dropped my hold on the gun and it clattered to the floor. Again the fire in my ribs reminded me that I was hurt and I stumbled, my vision blurring.

“I got you Lizz.” A voice came, a hand steadying me.

“Nick“ I choked, jerking away from the help behind me. I lurched forward, wavering unsteadily. Another pair of hands gently steadied me and I dropped to Nick’s side. Oblivious to the growing number of people around us, I fell forward, throwing myself across Nick, sobbing uncontrollably. Then I promptly passed out.

I shifted a little and I felt my eyes flutter open. At first I didn’t see anything, but my immediate attention was drawn elsewhere. The incredible stiffness of my body when I barely tried to move. I moaned softly.

“Lizz?”

A dim light flickered on and AJ’s face hovered above mine. I squinted against the new light. “Wha-?” I tried, my voice sounding like I had swallowed broken glass.

“Hold on.” AJ said quietly. He moved from my vision and returned with a paper cup with a straw. He held it to my lips and I drank the cold water gratefully. It soothed my raw throat.

“Where am I?” I whispered weakly. My brain must not have been functioning right because I was drawing a blank.

“You’re in the hospital.” AJ stated.

Hospital? I looked around. There were balloons and flowers on the window sill and bedside table, cards tacked up on the bulletin board. Then I looked back at AJ. He had a white bandage on the back of his head. I shifted again, trying to make sense of everything.

“Am I okay?” I asked, suddenly worried at how much I hurt.

“You’re going to be fine Lizz.” AJ assured me, somewhat sadly. That perplexed me. I knew it wasn’t a sadness that I was going to be okay, but more like someone else wasn’t.

“Oh, okay. Um, where’s Nick?” I asked, looking around again.

AJ looked away. “He uh...”

I took in his nervous look with great trepidation. Then it hit me. “Oh God...” I choked out, the tears already starting to fall. Everything came back. Brian and I getting kidnapped. Marcus showing up with Nick. What Marcus was going to do to me. Brian launching himself at Vinnie. The gun.

“Sh-h-h-h, Lizz.” AJ sat down on the edge of the bed.

I put my hands over my face, barely feeling the sting of my swollen cheekbone, and cried brokenly. “Oh AJ, I tried to save him. I tried to stop Marcus from killing Nick. Oh God, please help me, I tried.”

“Whoa whoa, Lizz! Nick isn’t dead! Lizz!” AJ practically shouted.

I looked up. “What? What do you mean? I - I saw him...” I trailed off, not comprehending.

“Lizz, Nick’s here. He’s just down the hall. He’s going to be fine.” AJ looked at me, his eyes full of concern.

I let out my breath in a whoosh. “He’s okay? Marcus didn’t...” I suddenly felt light-headed. “I have to see him. AJ, you have to take me to him!”

AJ held his hands up. “Oh no! You are supposed to stay in bed. No way missy.”

“AJ you know I will do this with or without your help!” I stated stubbornly.

AJ groaned. “They did have to stick me in your room didn’t they?” I thought I heard a hint of teasing in his voice. At least I hoped so.

He left and came back with a wheelchair. “Are you sure you are up to this?” He asked warily.

“I don’t know.” I admitted honestly. “But I don’t care.”

AJ came over and helped me scoot to the edge of the bed. I bit my lip hard against the pain. Almost immediately I noticed my bare legs. No more bodysuit.

“Can you stand?” AJ shook me out of my thoughts.

“I’m sure I can.” I said confidently, but as soon as I did, my knees buckled. Fortunately AJ was hadn’t let go of me yet and he eased me into the wheelchair. “Good Lord!” I hissed.

“Sure you can.” AJ mocked teasingly.

“Shut up. What the heck is wrong with me anyway?” I was a little worried now.

“Well you have been in bed all day and you went through a lot, so it’s probably normal.” AJ assured me.

“All day?”

“Yeah, it’s almost 8 at night.” AJ replied.

“Whoa, it seems like it was just a few hours ago.” I murmured.

AJ chuckled. “Eight o’clock the following night, Lizz. You slept for more than 40 hours straight. We were starting to get a little worried, afraid you had slipped into a coma.”

My eyes widened. “Damn. So why isn’t my doctor or nurse in here since I just woke up?”

AJ gave me a look. “Because they don’t know, dumbass. You had me running out the door after a wheelchair first thing.”

“Oh yeah.” I said sheepishly.

AJ shook his head, but I know he was smiling. He reached over on my bed, grabbed one of the blankets and draped it over my legs. “Brian is okay too right?” I stared up at him.

“Yep, they released him last night. Y’all were admitted sometime that morning about 4am. They wanted to keep him for observation. Of course he hasn’t left here, bestrewn your room and Nick’s. Now that you are awake you will probably get to go home tomorrow.” He explained.

I thought about my aching ribs. I wasn’t so sure about that one. Now that I was sitting upright, the pain was horrible and I could feel the bulky bandage that went from my chest down to my waist. “And what about this?” I gestured to my ribs.

“You were sliced open pretty good.” AJ grimaced.
I laughed, immediately regretting it. “Nice choice of words there. I know that much. Marcus lashed his knife out at me. I didn’t even know he had it. What I meant was, how bad is it?”

“Oh. They said it was pretty deep, but you were found before it got life-threatening. I think Brian said it that it goes a good 8 or 9 inches or so across you. Everything else is pretty minor.”

I nodded. Ew. Eight or nine inches?! That’s going to hurt for awhile. I looked down at the rope burns that were on my wrists. I’m sure I had a part in making them worse by panicking like I did. And of course there was my pretty bruised cheekbone and black eye that probably accompanied it. My luck we were going to have a press conference soon too. New thoughts... “How about your hard head?”

“Getting better.” He grinned. He struggled to maneuver my wheelchair and IV pole out the door. I was relieved to see that we weren’t in ICU. There also weren’t security guards everywhere which was sort of weird to see. I mean, there were a couple, but not near as many as there were before.

AJ leaned over and knocked softly on the door.

“Come in.” What sounded like Brian’s voice called back. I smiled.

AJ pushed open the door and pushed me in. I’ll never forget how happy I was at that moment when I saw Nick. He was propped up against several pillows and looked like he was laughing at something Brian had said. I never thought I was going to see that smile again. When he turned his head towards me, his eyes just lit up.

“Lizz!” He exclaimed, a tad on the surprised side.

Brian grinned too, looking as shocked to see me up.

“AJ!” Kevin tossed a disapproving look at him.

“Hey she wouldn’t take no for an answer!” AJ defended.

I looked up at him pleadingly, nodding my head towards Nick’s bed. AJ shook his head, implying that I was already on thin ice, but complied. I grinned at him as he locked the wheels to the chair for me.

“Oh god Lizz I wanted to go see you so bad, but they wouldn’t let me up. How are you?” Nick looked me over carefully and I knew he would tell I was struggling a little. Damn link.

“Better now, I thought you were...” I whispered, choking up. Before my waning strength completely left me, I pulled myself out of my chair. With a frustrated grunt, AJ rushed to help me sit down on the side of the bed. I think he thought I was gonna fall. I gave him a grateful smile.

“How?” I asked.

Nick looked thoughtful a minute. “It was like everything was happening in slow motion. I saw Marcus raise the gun and I didn’t even have time to move. I thought for sure I was going to die. I don’t even know how to explain how I felt. Then I saw you dive for the gun and you pulled his arm to the side as it went off.”

I closed my eyes, the picture was so vivid in my memory. “But you did get shot...” I whispered.

“Yeah, instead of going through my heart, it went right here.”

I opened my eyes and Nick was pointing on his ride side just up and right of his heart. “Holy shit! That’s where...”

“I was shot last time, I know! The bullet hit the scar tissue and didn’t go as deep as it would have. It hurts like a motha, but it won’t take quite as long to heal.” Nick finished.

I stared at him in awe and then threw my arms around him. I wanted to hug him as tight as I could, but I didn’t think my injury was gonna let me do that. Not to mention, I didn’t know how bad he was hurt. He looked pretty bruised up other than the white bandage peeking out the top of his gown. Nick returned the hug and before I knew it, I was crying. Again.

He smoothed my hair and just held on like I did. A moment later someone else sat on the other side of the bed. Another hand rested on my back. I didn’t move, but I knew it was Brian. We stayed in that tearful, somewhat awkward, but completely comforting three-way hug for I don’t even know how long. I knew we had a long road ahead of us and it was going to be really hard, but right then, I couldn’t have been happier.

The End...for now