It's a hot afternoon in Orlando, Florida summer of 2001. Mina walked into the air conditioned family business "Richardson Garage" like she did every day. She walked pass the four young men that occupied the garage every afternoon, working on cars. She continued her way into the office she worked at for as long as she can remember in her short 19 years. She found her father on the phone doing business.

"Mina your late." Her father hung up the phone.

"Hello to you to Daddy. Who were you talking to?"

"No one you need to worry your little head about." He kissed the top of her head before walking out into the garage.

Mina sighed "I'm sure." She followed her father into the garage.

"Boys we need to finish this car before tonight." Mike Richardson the owner of the shop announced.

"What's so important about tonight?" Mina asked dreading the answer.

"I need this car to race." Her father answered.

"Race? Pops you haven't raced in years.. Well, you haven't raced anyone besides me that is." Mina's brother Kevin chuckled giving their father a hard time. She couldn't help but laugh with him.

"Boy, it's time for you to sit back and watch your old man run nines like you only wish you could."

All the fellas laughed. "Whatever you say old man." Kevin laughed. Mike grabbed Kevin and put him in a headlock. The two rough housed while everyone else laughed. Mina just shook her head and walked back into the office.

****

"You look really beautiful tonight Mina." Alex mentioned as he followed the other street rods to the secret location of tonights race.

"Thanks Alex." Mina knew Alex still loved her, she felt guilty for not being able to return the love. Times like this makes her actually wish she listened to her brother for once. Kevin warned her not to get involved with one of his friends. Because if it didn't work out she would have to deal with them being around even though she wasn't dating them anymore.

They pulled up and parked right beside her brothers car. There were so many cars and people lined up and down the street. Mina hated everything about street racing. It caused way to much trouble for her family and herself.

"Mina, Mina lovely Mina."

"What do you want Brian?" She rolled her eyes.

"We need a flagger." Brian another one of her Brothers friends. Brian was more than just her brothers best friend though. He was like a brother to her.

"Find somebody else." she leaned up against Alex's Black and Silver Honda S2000.

"Girl, get your ass out there and be the flagger." Her brother grabbed her arm and pushed her.

"Get your hands off Kevin! Don't treat me like one of your whores!" Mina fought back.

"I'll be the flagger." Kristi broke the two siblings apart.

"No, Mina will be the flagger." Kevin said between clinched teeth.

"Kristi can do it. So, why me?" Mina doing her best to get out of anything that had to do with Street Racing.

"Because Dad wants you out there." Kevin said peacefully.

Mina sighed and walked pass Kevin and through the people. Mina stood infront of the four cars roaring their engines. She looked over at the watcher who gave her the thumbs up to let her know that the cops we're clear. Her hands went up in the air and the drivers waited for her signal. Mina made eye contact with her father before dropping her hands and the cars flew by in 10 seconds flat.

"WHOOO!!!!" cheers from the hundreds of spectators roared through the street.

Mina rushed over to her family and watched from there. "Look at Mike go! Shit he's flying!" Alex yelled in excitement.

"He's gonna win." Kevin smiled and looked over at his sister to find her smiling back.

They both turned to see their father and the three other cars now heading up the street towards them. Mina's heart was pounding with excitement. As the cars went by she saw a flicker off the back of her dads car.

"Kevin! Did you see that?!" she tugged on her brother.

"See what?"

All of a sudden a huge explosion, a ball of heat came towards them, Knocking people to the ground. Mina's heart stopped as she realized that was her fathers car.

"DAD!!!" Kevin yelled as he ran towards the fire.

Mina jumped up off the ground and ran for her father along with others. "Dad.." She cried.

Kevin got as close to the car as he could without getting hurt. He yelled for their father and got no response. Mina came running right up behind him screaming in an awful cry "Daddy!! Help! Somebody Help us!! DAD!!!"

Kevin grabbed her, stopping her from reaching their father as he broke down in tears with her. They both fell to the ground in horror of just losing their father.

Mina laying down in her bedroom staring up at her ceiling thinking back.

~Flashback~

"Daddy why did mommy leave?" 5yr old Mina asked.

"Because she didn't love us that's why." 9yr old Kevin answered before his father could.

"That's not true Kevin. Your mother just couldn't live this life anymore. She loved you both very much, She just didn't like this life. So we had to let her leave."

"Are you going to leave?" Mina looked up at her father with big emerald green eyes.

"I'm never leaving Mina. I promise you that."

~End of flashback~

"Never huh?" she wiped her tears. It's only been two months since that ugly night her father lost his life. Things have changed and she wasn't sure if she liked the change. Kevin and Mina now had the responsibility to keep their fathers business running and they were now the ones who had to put food on the table and keep a roof over their head. Though the only good thing about living in the same 3 bedroom house since she was born is that the house payment was almost paid off.

"Hey Mina, you coming out of there anytime today?" Alex knocked on her door.

She ignored him and just went back to her thoughts.

~Flashback~

"You think your dad will let us drive his car?" Brian asked Kevin.

"Dad is not going to let you two get behind the wheel of any of his cars." Mina popped the bubble of her 12yr old brother and his best friend.

"Mina go play with some dolls or something." Kevin annoyed with his sister.

Mina sat down next to Brian on the first step of their porch. "I don't own any dolls Kevin."

"You know Mina you're a strange girl." Little Brian laughed.

"And you’re a strange boy." The eight year old Mina stuck her tongue out at Brian.

"Come on Brian let's go help my dad with the car." Kevin and Brian jumped off the porch and went to the garage. Thinking Mina would leave them alone but, like always she just followed them. The three little kids found Mike in the garage working on his 1969 Dodge Charger. "Hey kids what are you up to?"

"Nothing much. Hey dad if we help you work on the Charger will you let Brian and I drive it?" Kevin always ballsy, asked his dad straight out.

Mike just chuckled "Not the Charger no."

"Oh come on Mr. Richardson, we want to know what it's like to drive cars like you."

Mike wiped his greased hands on a towel as he looked at the two boys looking at him with hopeful eyes. "You two really want to know?"

"Yeah!"

"Alright, tomorrow I'll show you boys how to drive."

~End of Flashback~

"And that is where we went wrong in this family." She sighed. Mina sat up and looked out the window that faced the backyard and garage. Alex, Howie and Brian were out there with Kevin fixing some barbecue. She giggled at the four boys she loved, out there messing around. She went over to her dresser, stopped and looked at the collection of photos of her family. She picked up her favorite picture of all of them. Kevin, Alex and Brian sitting on the middle step of the porch, Mina and Howie sitting on the last step. Mina sitting in front of Alex who had lean forward to have his face next to hers, Mike standing at the top smiling big and proud. "God we're a beautiful family."

"Hey kid, whatcha doin' in here?" Kevin snuck into her room.

Mina set the picture back on her dresser "Nothing, just thinking." she went back to sit on her bed.

"Well, how about you come downstairs and hang with us?" Kevin nudged his sister playfully.

"Maybe later."

Kevin frowned "Mina, I know how you feel. But, you have to try and keep going. Dad wouldn't want you in your room crying."

"I know Kevin. Can you just leave me alone? Please?"

"Fine." Kevin got up off his sisters bed and walked out of her room.

Mina got up and turned on her stereo system and blasted her Limp Bizket CD, took a seat on her floor and looked through all her photo albums. Bringing floods of memories back.

~Flashback~

"Mina! Mina! Kevin comes home today!" Kristi came storming through the house.

"Ohmygod Kristi, chill." 11yr old Mina laughed at her brothers girlfriend.

"Kevin has been gone for six months. I'm in major withdrawal, I'm not doing any chilling, anytime soon."

"Well, we better get this place ready. He's gonna be here in a few hours and my dad wants this backyard ready for a welcome home party." Mina pulled out a big bag of streamers and paper products.

"This is gonna be a great night." Kristi smiled.

Mina just laughed to herself, Kristi was your typical kick ass girl but when it came to Kevin she was such a girl. She had to admit she thought Kristi was a cool chick, she was the type of girl she wish she could be. Into building, racing cars, tough and at the same time beautiful.

"Hey Mina, Here's the sign!" Brian walked up to the two girls with a big welcome back sign.

"Aw thanks Bri. This is cool." She looked at the sign that Brian made with his art skills.

"I'm just glad the boy is back so I don't have to deal with you two girls alone anymore." Brian cracked

"Oh come on Brian, you know you loved it." Mina laughed.

The backyard was all set for a homecoming. Friends all over, Food being cooked on the grill, music playing, all they needed now was Kevin. The moment they were waiting for finally arrived when Kevin and her father came walking up the drive-way with another boy following.

"KEVIN!!" Kristi ran into his arms, he dropped his duffel bag and embraced her, kissing her like he's been missing her as much as she's been missing him.

"Doesn't he look great?" Her father asked as he stood next to Mina watching Kristi and Kevin

"Yeah." Mina smiled

Kevin let go of Kristi and smiled as he looked at what he came home too "Wow y'all here for me?"

"No, we're here for the free food." Brian laughed before hugging Kevin.

"Yeah, I knew it had nothing to do with me." Kevin laughed. He looked over at Mina and smiled "Hey sis, ya miss me?"

"No, I enjoyed having silence in the house." she lied before hugging her brother.

"I missed you too Mina." Kevin threw his hands up in the air and yelled "Let's Party!!"

Mina just laughed then her smile drifted into a questioning look "Who are you?"

"Oh, damn I forgot. This is Alex we we're in Juvi together, he's gonna be living with us." Justin explained.

"What?" Mina not so thrilled about some new guy living in her house.

"Alex needs a place to stay so he's staying here. You know all your brothers friends are welcome here." Mike added.

"Why don't you go back to your own home?" Mina not dropping the conversation.

"Well aren't you feisty?" Alex smirked.

Mina just gave him a dirty look. "Mina don't be a bitch. AJ kept me sane in that hell hole. And he needs a place to stay, the least I can do is give him that." Kevin informed.

"What's wrong with your home?" She asked Alex.

"I'm not allowed back in it." Alex gave her attitude back.

"Oh."

~End of Flashback~

"God that seems like so long ago." Mina talked to herself remember Alex becoming apart of the family.

She shut the last photo album and decided she ignored everyone long enough. Mina made her way through the house. As she went through the living room she saw the couch had a pillow and blanket thrown on it "Looks like Howie stayed last night." she said to herself as she continued through the house. She walked out the back door and found her family all there hanging out eating barbecue.

"Is there any left for me?"

"You better hurry up AJ's hungry over here." Howie laughed.

"AJ's always hungry." Mina cracked before sitting down next to her brother and Alex. Kevin smiled at her and she just smiled back. They all dug into the good food and talked about cars like always.

"So are you going to race Dondre and Marcus tonight?" Howie asked in the middle of their lunch.

"What?" Mina all of a sudden wanted to cry.

"Yeah, I have too." Kevin answered Howie before looking over at his sister "Mina nothings going to happen to me."

"I can't believe you’re going to race them! How can you even get back behind the fucking wheel?!" she freaked.

"Calm down Mina! I'm not stopping the one thing that makes my life worth something, Racing is what I love, It's what Dad loved! There's no way I'm going to stop."

"You act like that street racing is all you have. All you love. Well what about all of us!? If you loved any of us you won't race Dondre and Marcus tonight. Forget tonight. You won't race ever." She felt a tear fall down her cheek.

"That's not fair Mina, and you know it. I love you and you know that. I'm not going to change because..." Kevin stopped in mid sentence.

"Because Dad's dead." Mina finished for him and walked back into the house slamming the screen door behind her.

Kevin just looked at the others who couldn't bare to make eye contact with him. "I'm going for a drive."

Alex got up and went inside the house to find Mina. He went to her room and knocked lightly "Mina? Can I come in?"

She didn't answer so he just entered, he saw her lying on her bed hiding her face. He could tell she was crying, her back was moving with each sob. He crawled onto the other side of the bed lying his head on the pillow next to her. He placed a hand on her back and she just turned into him and cried into his chest.

Mina woke up in the dark, she jumped up grabbing her night stand clock and read 7:45 pm. "SHIT!" She jumped out of bed and ran out of her room. For the first time in a long time she was the only one home. She stormed out of the house and jumped into her silver Mitsubishi Eclipse.

"Damn you Kevin." She said out loud as she flew down the lighted streets swerving pass cars that were getting in her way. Mina got to the secret spot somehow she knew they'd be at tonight. She came to a sudden stop and jumped out of her car in search for her brother.

"Hey Mina, What's up girl!" one of the regular spectators hollered.

"Hey, Have you seen my brother?" she asked.

"Yeah, he's getting ready for the race. He's down there." The guy pointed down the street.

Mina saw Kevin "Thanks." she replied as she walked away. Mina made her way down the street to her brother "Kevin, we need to talk."

"There's nothing to talk about Mina." Kevin continued to check out one of his rivals cars. They all did this to make sure their component's car is worth racing. Mina has never seen Marcus' cars be anything but worthy, she didn't understand why Kevin still always checked out his cars.

"There is something to talk about Kevin and you know it." She spoke through clinched teeth.

"Hey Mina, why don't you come stand with me?" Alex took her hand gently, pulling her away from Kevin.

"Alex, he can't race." Mina said with nothing but fear written all over her face.

"I know your scared Baby, but, this is Kevin we're talkin' about. He's gonna do whatever he wants and no one can change his mind you know this." Alex telling Mina what she didn't want to hear.

"I know this." she sighed and leaned up against Alex's car. Mina looked across the street and saw someone she didn't know "Who's the new guy?"

"I don't know. But, we'll find out if he can race or not in a few minutes." Brian responded.

"He's got the car for it." Howie stated, then added "Let's just see if he can drive it."

Mina couldn't help but stare down the new guy. He was appealing, mysterious, and she wanted to know his story. She watched how he moved in his black leather pants that seemed to be made just for him. His dirty Blond out of control hair had bleached blond highlights to highten his complection. He had a great smile, she loved his smile. Mina watched Kevin go over to this young man and talk to him with his usual tense face, before they each got into their own cars.

Four cars lined up side by side. Mina was surprised that Kevin would allow a new guy in on one of his races. But, she was even more surprised Marcus and Dondre allowed it. They roared their engines and waited for the flagger to drop their hand to start the race. Mina held her breath scared of another race going wrong. She couldn't bare to lose her brother, she couldn't bare to lose anyone else she loved.

Alex wrapped an arm around her she didn't even acknowledge his presence. The four cars took off and the race began. The roar of the crowd wasn't heard by Mina, the three other cars weren't seen by Mina. She never took her eyes off Kevin's car. The race was over in a flash like they always were. Her brother won and lived. Mina could breathe again.

Kevin got out of his car and took his money from the keeper. "Kev, you didn't back down at all tonight. I thought for sure you would." Dondre, their biggest rival expressed.

"I never back down Dre, Haven't you learned that yet?" Kevin smirked before walking away. Joining his family in celebration for another win.

"You we're flyin’ tonight." Brian congratulated his best friend.

Kevin looked into Mina's eyes who we're staring back. They didn't say anything to each other, they really had nothing to say. Mina walked off "MINA!" Alex called for her.

"Let her go AJ." Kevin held a hand up motioning for him to stop.

****

When Mina got home that night there was a party at her house. There was a party after every win. She sat outside her home on the back porch not wanting to enter the mayhem that she knew was pass that door. She looked up at the stars in the night sky.

~Flashback~

"I've never looked at the stars before tonight."

Mina looked over at Alex, "Really?"

He just shrugged still looking up, Mina looked back up at the sky "I love getting lost in the stars. Especially on nights I need peace."

Alex now looked over at Mina and smiled at the beautiful young woman. Her long dark brown curly hair flowed in the soft wind, her big Emerald green eyes never leaving the sky. He always thought she was beautiful, But he never saw her as a woman until that night.

"Mina, why don't you have a boyfriend?" Alex asked now leaning up against the rail on the porch.

"I don't know. I guess, because all the guys I know are like my brothers. And the ones I don't know seem to always be thugs. Besides, my father would probably have a heart attack if I had a boyfriend. He thinks I'm too young."

"You’re very mature for your age, not like most fifteen year olds. Your a young woman, not a young fifteen year old. At least to me anyway." Alex shrugged

"Really, you think so?"

He nodded yes and she smiled "Well, my father would probably disagree with you." she laughed before continuing "He says no dating until you're 16." she deepened her voice, shaking her finger like her father. "So, I have a year. It's not like I have anyone interested in me anyways."

Alex's eyes locked with hers, he moved closer to Mina . He brushed a curl out of her face, he placed it behind her ear before leaning in, placing his lips to hers. Mina tensed up but quickly relaxed to his gentle lips. She kissed him back. When the kiss broke Alex slowly moved away "I'm interested Mina." he spoke softly.

~End of Flashback~

Mina sighed "Why did things have to change?" she asked herself.

"Things change as people grow." Howie startled Mina.

"I didn't know you were out here." Mina smiled.

"If you want to be alone, I can go back inside." He stood above her.

"Have a seat Howie." She patted the cement step next to her. He took a seat "What you doin' out here?" he asked with a kind smile.

"Just thinking. I didn't want to go inside and deal with all the people tonight. Though it sounds like Kevin is having a good time in there."

"There's a lot of people having a good time in there. You should be one of them."

"What are you doing out here instead of being in there?" Mina looked over at Howie.

"I've had enough noise." Howie looked down at his hands.

Mina let Howie have his silence as she looked back up at the stars.

~Flashback~

"YOU WILL NOT DISRESPECT ME IN MY HOUSE!!" Mr. Dorough yelled.

"I wasn't dis..." Howie's words stopped when his fathers fist met with his face.

Mina flinched at the blow Howie just received. She just stood there not knowing what to do. Howie's father continued to yell and abusing Howie with not just his fists but with his words.

"STOP!" young Mina cried.

"It's okay Mina." Howie tried to reassure her.

"Get out of my house." Mr. Dorough's voice sent a shiver down Mina's spine.

Howie and Mina walked out of the house and headed for hers. "Howie are you okay?" Mina wiped her own tear.

"Don't worry about me Mina." Howie at 14 years has already lived a life two times harder than your average 14 yr old. Mina knew of Howie's family problems. Father was abusive and his mother a drug addict, she just never seen it with her own eyes until that summer afternoon. They didn't talk for the four blocks to her house. When they got there she ran into the house looking for her brother.

"Kevin!?" she hollered.

"What?!" he yelled back as he walked into the living room. He stopped when he saw Howie with a new bloody lip and puffy red eye.

Kevin had anger written all over his face and it scared Mina "Howie you're not going back there." Kevin's voice full of anger. Though he said these words every time Howie walked into their house after a battle at his own home, Howie never stayed forever, he always went back home.

Mina went to get a ice pack and towel out of the kitchen, as Howie and Kevin talked about what happened. Howie was two years younger than Kevin not that you could ever tell. Howie was a computer genius, he knew cars inside and out. But most important he was sweet, with a sensitive heart and soul. No one could ever hate Howie. Anyone who could get away with the nickname ‘Sweet D’ in this neighborhood had to be truly good hearted. That's what made it so hard for Mina and Kevin to understand how Howie's parents could tear him down like they did.

"Here." Mina handed Kevin the ice pack. 12yr old Mina knelt down in front of Howie and cleaned the blood off his face with the towel.

He wouldn't cringe from the pain, he never even moved until his hand went to brush a tear off Mina's cheek "Don't cry sweet Mina." He spoke soft and gentle.

~End of Flashback~

Mina looked over at Howie who was now also looking up at the stars, off in his own world. She smiled as she watched him. He still lived in that home with his parents, even though the Richardson's have asked him numerous times to move in with them. He always said no, but, he knew he was always welcome in that house. He didn't have to ask anymore to sleep on their sofa, It was his.

She adored Howie and respected him more than anyone she knew. He was strong, sweet and very smart. He would never hurt anyone, not on purpose anyway. He was her counselor, he was her best friend.

"Howie have I ever thanked you?"

He blinked before looking over at Mina "For what?"

"For always being there. You always seem to find me when I need someone to talk to.. usually about Alex." she chuckled before continuing "You helped me through some tough times during my relationship with Alex. And with my break up. You're always there to pick up the pieces when ever Kevin and I get in a fight. You're just always there for me." she smiled.

Howie smiled at her "Well, you've always been there for me. I think that's what were meant to do for each other."

"Maybe." Mina got up from the stoop and opened the screen door, "Good Night Howie."

"Goodnight Mina." Howie said as he looked back up at the sky. Mina walked into her house, she didn't stop to talk to anyone she just went to her room in the back corner of the house. She shut the bedroom door behind her cutting the loud music by half.

She changed out of her well worn day clothes into her comfy tank top and boxer shorts. As Mina walked to her bed she pulled her natural curly hair into a ponytail, she crawled into her comfortable full size bed with a sigh of comfort. As tired as she was she still couldn't sleep. She had so much on her mind. "Who was he? Will I see him again?" her thoughts of the mysterious stranger kept her from resting peacefully that evening.

DING DONG!!!

"SOMEBODY GET THE DOOR!!" Mina yelled from her bedroom. She's been up for awhile now, she just hasn't actually left her bed. She found it very difficult to make herself get out of bed every morning these days.

"Mina, you can get your ass out of bed and get it yourself." Alex said outside her door.

"Why, that's what I have you for!" she yelled back and laughed.

Alex swung open the door and stood there with one eye brow up "Oh really?"

"Well, I can't think of any other reason you’re around." She giggled.

Alex pounced on Mina and started tickling her, making her squirm and yell, he'd pick her up and drop her on the bed like a wrestler from time to time. Mina couldn't help but laugh uncontrollably. "This will teach you to disrespect me." Alex dropped Mina on the bed.

"KEVIN! SOMEONE'S HERE TO SEE YOU!" Howie yelled from the other room.

"Who's here?" Mina stopped laughing, asking full of curiosity. Everyone who matters to Kevin is already here.

Alex shrugged "I don't know. Who cares?"

Mina got up and walked out of her bedroom into the living room. She stopped in mid-step.

"Hey man, what's going on?" Kevin asked the visitor.

"Not much, thought we could start workin' on that car you were telling me about."

Mina made the wood floors creek "Hey Mina, thought you were still sleeping." Kevin looked over at his sister.

"Um, no.." She couldn't believe he was in her house. Talking to her brother as if they've been friends since childhood.

"Mina, this is Nick. He's new in town and he needed a job, So, I'm giving him a job at our garage." Kevin explained.

Mina just raised her eyebrows at her brother, questioning him. She looked over at Nick, "Nice to meet you Nick."

"Hey, Mina?!" Alex came into the room and stopped when he saw Nick standing in the living room.

"What AJ?" Mina looked over her shoulder.

Alex glared at Nick, making Nick feel very uncomfortable. "AJ? You wanted something?" Mina broke the glare.

"Never mind." Alex left the living room. Mina rolled her eyes, then took a seat on the couch next to Howie who was sipping on coffee. She took his coffee cup out of his hands and sneaked a sip before handing it back.

"Good morning Mina." Howie chuckled.

"Mornin'." she responded with out taking her eyes off Kevin and Nick

"Well, let me get dressed and we can head over to the garage. You know where it's at?" Kevin asked.

"Yeah, I'll meet you there." Nick went to leave but stopped at the door, he looked over at Mina "It was nice meeting you." He smiled then walked out the door.

Mina blushed and Howie laughed. Mina scowled "What are you laughing at?"

"You, who else? Got yourself a crush on the new guy?"

"No, I don't even know him." she got up and went to her room trying not to smile.

Howie just chuckled to himself. He knew that look

~Flashback~

Howie sat down next to a day dreaming Mina "Why don't you just ask him out?"

Mina jumped "Oh, Hi Howie."

"You really should just ask him out." He looked out the Kitchen window, the same one Mina was losing her thoughts through.

"I can't, he's Kevin's friend. And besides he's older than me. Why would he ever want to be with a 15 year old. Hello, he's a man I'm a child." Mina walked out of the kitchen into the living room, she slumped into the couch.

"You said he kissed you. That shows he's interested." Howie sat next to her.

"It was probably a pity kiss. Besides this is Alex we're talking about. He flirts with all girls."

"Mina, stop talking yourself out of this and just go for it. Alex likes you, we all know this." Howie chuckled.

"I can't. My dad wouldn't ever let us be together. Alex lives in the same house. I don't think my dad will be like all for us being boyfriend girlfriend under the same roof. Think about it."

"MINA! STOP IT!" Howie raised his voice, shocking Mina. "I'm not going to sit here and listen to you come up with excuses. If you want to be with Alex then be with him. If you don't then don't. But, I'm not going to sit here and listen to you be miserable."

Mina didn't know what to say. She just looked at him as he stared back at her. "So what are you going to do?" Howie asked finally.

Mina got up and walked out the back screen door, Howie followed her, he stopped and sat on the steps. As she walked right up to Alex breaking Kevin and his conversation "Alex, you want to go grab a bite to eat or something'?"

Alex and Kevin just looked at her strangely, Mina looked like she was going to throw up "Never mind." She went to walk away, she almost made it into the house before Alex said anything..

"Mina?"

She turned around "I'd like that." Alex smiled.

"Really?" she was shocked.

Howie leaned back with a smile.

~End of Flashback~

"Hey Howie? You going to work today?" Alex snapped him out of his thoughts.

"Um, yeah." Howie got up off the couch and went to get dressed.

Mina walked out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around her body while her wet hair hung down. She passed Howie as he went into the bathroom and she went into her bedroom.

"And this is the days of our lives as the world turns" Howie laughed at himself as he looked into the steamy mirror that Mina left.

****

"So what's his story?" Kristi asked.

"I don't know. He's new in town and that's about all I know." Mina leaned on the counter of the family business, watching Kristi paint her nails.

"Well, he's a hottie that's for sure. Just don't tell your brother I said so." She laughed.

"Your secret is safe with me." Mina smiled.

ring, ring

"Richardson's Garage." Mina answered the phone.

"Yo, Mina, your brother there?"

"Yeah, hold on." Mina pressed hold and went out to the garage "Hey Kev, phone." She walked back into the office not waiting for Kevin to reply.

Nick watched her every move, and Alex watched Nick. Kevin wiped his hands on a rag, then picked up the phone that hung on the wall in the working garage.

"Yeah this is Kevin."

"Kev, nine o'clock, Frampton Blvd." The caller hung up and Kevin went back to working on the Nissan Skyline.

"What's up Kev?" Howie asked.

"Nothin'. Just about a race tonight." Kevin got on the Mechanic creeper and rolled under the car.

"You racin' tonight?" Alex asked.

"Of course. We need the money." Kevin said from under the car.

"Kevin maybe you should hold off on racing again. I mean, Mina isn't ready for you to risk your life every night." Alex suggested.

"Well, Mina needs to grow up and realize that we can't keep this garage and food on the table if I don't keep racing." Kevin rolled back out from under the car.

"You ever think about grand prix racing?" Nick mentioned out of nowhere reminding the others he was there.

"Yeah right. Like I can just walk into a track and they'd give me a car to race." Kevin laughed.

"I've got a car." Nick said matter-of-factually.

The four guys looked at him like he's crazy "You? You just so happen to have a grand prix race car?" Brian trying to make sure they all heard him right.

"Yeah.. I race in the amateur Grand Prix."

Three mouths dropped, Kevin looked over at his friends "Pick up you’re jaws your embarrassing me."

"HOLIDAY!! CELEBRATE! HOLIDAY! CELEBRATE! If we took a Holiday! Took sometime to celebrate! Just one day out of life! It Would be! It Would be so nice!" Mina sang at the top of her lungs while dancing around the house. She decided to get away from work early that day and get some alone time. She blared her 80's cassette and cleaned the house as she sang and danced around with her broom and mop.

Nick and Kevin entered the back door "YO MINA!" Kevin hollered but, not loud enough.

The two stopped when they saw Mina's back to them. She was in full 80's swing. Dancing the classic Madonna moves, singing at the top of her lungs, mop in hand.

"Forget about the bad times, oh yeah, One day to come together, To release the pressure, We need a holiday..." Mina swung around with her mop dramaticly, the mop dropped as she made eye contact with the two men watching. Kevin doing his best not to laugh, Nick wearing a smirk. Mina wanted to die right then and there. She just stood there with her mouth wide open, music still blaring.

Kevin started to do the white man dance making sure to over exadurate his moves while singing along, coming towards Mina who wasn't amused. She pushed him away and he just broke out laughing "Thanks for the laugh Mina." Kevin made his way to the stereo and turned it off.

"Screw you Kevin. Why aren't you working?" Mina so embarressed she was angry.

"Well, we finished the Nissan so we all called it a day. Besides I have a race to get ready for." Kevin plopped on the couch. Nick stood in the door way.

"Race? Again?" Mina's worry apparent.

"Don't be so surprised. It's not like I haven't raced every chance I can get since I was 14." Kevin flipped on the 20 inch television.

"Things are different Kevin." Mina sighed.

"Yeah things are different. Now, I have to make sure to keep food in the house, clothes on YOUR back, and most of all make sure Dad's garage doesn't get shut down. So, don't give me any crap about racing. It's the only way to make all that happen." Kevin argued.

Mina walked out of the living room into her bedroom, slamming the door behind her. "AH!!!!" She screamed in aggravation. Mina was sick of her life, sick of the same old people, and most of all sick of being sad and scared all the time.


"Hey man, I'll catch up with you later. Seems, you have family things to deal with." Nick reminding Kevin he was there.

"Forget it. It's the same argument we've been having for the past two months." Kevin flipped through the channels, aggravated.

"Well, maybe you two should actually talk and listen to each other. Maybe the argument could be solved." Nick stepped more into the house. Kevin looked over at Nick irritated, "Or, I could be totally wrong and have no idea what I'm talking about." Nick laughed before sitting down.

"Nah. Man, it's just a lot of shit that probably should be solved but, we're both stubborn. And most of all she needs to grow up." Kevin stood up, "You want a beer?"

"Sure." Nick leaned back in the chair.

"Hey Kev." Alex came through the back door that was attached to the kitchen.

"Hey." Kevin reached into the fridge and grabbed two beers.

"Did you talk to Mina about tonight?" Alex questioned.

"Kinda. She knows I'm racing, she's not happy and the rest is the same old shit." Kevin walked pass Alex into the living room. Alex followed, finding Nick sitting where he usually sat. Alex raised an eyebrow in question of Nick's presence.

"Hey AJ." Nick smiled before taking a swig of his beer.

Alex didn't respond he just left the room in hopes to find Mina. He knocked softly on her door and waited for her okay.

"What?" Mina snapped from the other side.

"Can I come in?" Alex asked.

"Whatever." was her answer.

Alex entered Mina’s bedroom and found her lying on the floor staring up at the ceiling. "What are you doing?" He asked with a smile.

"Nothing. What do you want AJ?"

He got on the floor lying beside her and stared up at the ceiling with her "Nothing."

The two of them laid there in silence for over thirty minutes until Alex broke the peace "What's going on Mina? Why you lying on the floor?"

"Nothing's going on AJ. I just want to lay on the floor. Is that okay with you?" she never broke her stare with the ceiling.

"Sure, if the ceiling amuses you that much, carry on. But, something is wrong and you used to tell me everything."

"Well, things have changed Alexander, and if anyone has a problem I think it's you." She got up off the floor and walked over to her dresser.

"Me? I don't have a problem." Alex confused.

"Please? AJ stop with the denial. Hello, we broke up a year ago and you act like there was never a split. Jesus Alex, do you know how hard it is to wake up every morning knowing I have to look at your pathetic face, knowing you still want me?!" Mina went off, voice raised. Alex sat on her floor in shock of the words coming out of her mouth. "You and I will never happen again! Get over it! Let me live my life! And you desperately need to get on with yours!"

Alex got off the floor walked towards her not saying a word, she looked right at him seeing the hurt in his eyes "Okay Mina." was all he said before walking out of her room. When she heard the click of her door she threw a framed photo across the room before jumping into her bed crying into her pillow.

Alex stormed out of the house in anger while Kevin and Nick looked at each other in confusion "What's going on?" Nick asked.

"Who knows. Those two are a real life soap opera and I try and keep out of it." Kevin chuckled.


"Hey AJ, what's up?" Howie sat down on the porch outside his home.

"I just needed to get away from that house and the people in it." Alex frowned.

"Mina?" Howie smiled knowing that's who he was really talking about.

"She just started going off on me for no reason!" Alex raised his voice.

"Okay man, don't take it out on me. So what did she say?"

"Pretty much she thinks I'm a pathetic loser who needs to stop drooling over her."

Howie didn't know what to say he just let Alex go on, "I can't help how I feel. I love her and always will. She acts like our relationship was just some fling and we should both just get over it. We were together for 4 years Howie! FOUR YEARS!! How can she just tell me it's over then act like there was nothing there?"

"AJ, you ever think that something else is going on and you just were there at the wrong time? She just was letting off steam and probably didn't mean a thing she said." Howie trying to make things better. Always being the peacemaker among the unique family.

"Doubt it. She's right I'm a pathetic loser who needs to let her go. If she wants that jerk Nick then she can have him, and curse his life forever. Like she's done with mine." Alex got up off the stoop and walked off.

Howie sighed "Why can't they just freakin get back together and make MY life a lot easier?" Howie asked himself before going back into his house.

*****

"Wow, I didn't think you'd be here tonight?"

"I go to all his races. I might not agree with him, but, If anything happens I want to be here." Mina got up on the hood of Brian's car.

"Why you so against street racing. Or racing all together?" Nick questioned.

"A long story and trust me you really don't want to get involved." Mina turned her head to look away from Nick.

"Hey you two!" Kristi smiled as she walked up to Nick and Mina.

"Hey, you know where my brother is? What am I saying of course you do." Mina rolled her eyes.

"Ha, Ha.. Actually yeah he's talking to some people over there." She pointed down the street.

Mina jumped off the car and headed towards her brother until a body blocked her way "Uh, sorry." She said as she got her balance back from the force of impact.

"Mmhmm." He responded and Mina realized it was Alex.

"Oh, hey. Look Al..."

"Forget it." Alex walked away not allowing Mina to say much more.

"If you came here to stop me don't bother."

Mina turned around to find her brother standing there "I didn't come to stop you. Look, Kevin, you may be shocked by this but I love you. You’re all I have left. I just don't want to lose you like Dad. I'm so scared anymore I can't think straight." A tear fell down her cheek.

Kevin wrapped his arms around her and held her tight "Mina you’re not going to lose me. I promise."

"You can't promise things like that." she broke away from Kevin, wiping her tears.

"And you can't change things. Mina, I don't want you to be scared or hurt anymore. But, I'm not going to change my ways. I can't."

Mina frowned "I know... You better get your car all set. You have a race to win." Mina pushed him playfully doing her best to fake her approval.

"Alright." he chuckled and walked off. Mina walked back to the crew.

"Mina, My lovely princess. Sweet Angel.." Brian chimed with a big grin.

"Brian, my annoying Duck." She smiled big to match his.

"Ouch, I'm hurt." Brian grabbed his chest as the others laughed.

"You're a lot of things Bri, hurt I doubt is one of them." Mina got back up onto the hood of his car.

"You plan on ever actually racing again Brian?" Howie asked.

"I'm just waiting for my moment." He smiled with his answer.

"Where's Alex?" Mina asked realizing he wasn't hanging with them.

"He's racing. It's Alex, Nick, Kevin, Chris and Ricardo tonight."

Mina's stomach turned as she saw two men she cared about most in the world get into their cars, started their engines with a roar. This could be an incredible race or the worst one of her life. “Why do I drag myself to these things? All it does is add more years to my young life.” She thought.

The cars roared, the vibrations from the five powerful vehicles went through everyones body. Mina didn't know if she could watch. She held a hand over her face peeking through her fingers. She was never this nervous for a race before.

"Mina? What are you doing?" Howie asked.

"Deciding if I want to watch or not. What does it look like I'm doing?"

"Mina you're getting stranger and stranger I swear." Brian laughed.

"I must be hanging around you too much Brian." Mina smiled.

The flaggers arm dropped and the five cars tires screeched as they sped off and Mina's heart pounded harder and faster. She was confused, she didn't want to watch but then again she did. Who would she want to win? Her brother is, well her brother, him winning pays the bills. Then there's Alex who doesn't race very often and when he does he only wins half the time, so she kinda wanted him to beat the other four, he deserved to win. Then there was Nick. She wanted to see what he was made of, most definitely.

Kevin was in the lead with Nick on his tail. Alex was a few feet behind with Ricardo right in front of him. Chris was inching up on Alex until his tire blew and took him out of the race. Now it's three men Mina wanted to win and one rival.

"Kevin's got this one in the bag." Brian expressed.

Mina just kept watching. Nick hit a button on his Red Toyota Supra Turbo sending NOS threw his engine making him pass Kevin right by. The crowd went wild with excitement as the new guy just passed the most challenging racer on the local streets.

"OhMyGod, Nick just.."

"Just kicked your brothers ass." Brian laughed, "We'll see how much Kevin likes Nick now."

"Oh stop, Kevin can't win them all." Mina smiled, She was full of excitement for Nick.

The four cars came rolling up, Nick jumped out of his car with the biggest smile. He collected his money from the other drivers. Kevin looked pissed. More then pissed actually. Mina watched him walk towards Nick who had no idea Kevin doesn't take losing well.

"Oh Shit!! Five 0! Five 0!!!" a kid yelled across the crowd.

Everyone scattered with the sirens of cop cars in the distance. Kids left and right jumped into their cars taking off to all different destinations. Mina ran for the closest friend's car and jumped in. Brian and her sped off with their hearts pumping with adrenaline. Mina looked over her shoulder looking to see if the rest of her family got away okay. She couldn't find them.

"They'll be okay Mina." Brian spoke as he switched gears. Brian and Mina went straight to the house and waited for everyone to gather there. She was worried about Kevin. He can't be picked up once again. He's got too many warnings.

"Where is everyone?" Mina paced back and forth, checking the window every five seconds.

"Mina sit down already. You’re making me nervous. Why don't you order a pizza so we can eat."

"Brian do I look like your personal waitress?" Mina stopped and glared.

"Yes, get a move on, I want pizza, girl." Brian clapped his hands at her.

"Oh, your so dead Bri." Mina pounced on him and started punching him playfully.

A car pulled into the drive which made Mina jump up quickly and run out the back door. "Kevin!! What!!?.." she stopped in mid-sentence when she saw it was Nick and Howie and not Kevin.

"He's not back yet?" Howie asked.

"No." Mina frowned.

"Kiddo you worry too much. Kevin is able to take care of himself just fine. Stop worrying okay?" Howie placed an arm across her shoulders as they walked into the house with Nick following.

"It's easier said then done I'm sure." Nick added.

"Hey! Where's AJ?" Brian asked when he saw Howie walk in with Mina.

"I don't know. I got a ride with Nick." Howie plopped on the couch next to Brian.

"I'm sure Alex and Kevin will be here and be just fine." Nick said as he stood near Mina who had worry written all over her face.

"How about that pizza Mina?" Brian chuckled, and only got a glare from her.

"I'll order." Howie got up and grabbed the phone.

Mina looked out the window waiting. She walked out the front door and sat down on the stoop. Nick followed right behind her. "Whatcha thinking about?" he asked as he sat down next to her.

"A lot of things. Actually that's all I've been doing lately." She never looked over at him.

"What about?" He never took his eyes off her.

"My brother, my friends, the past... My father. Just a lot of things."

"Your boyfriend and brother are going to be fine. They’re probably just driving around making sure the cops don't follow them home."

Mina looked over at him "My boyfriend? Alex is not my boyfriend. Well, not anymore."

"Oh.. does he know that?"

"Alex just doesn't want to let go of the fact we’re no longer together. Don't get me wrong. I love Alex just not the way he loves me. He's a great guy, a wonderful friend. But, I'm just not in love with him. He just needs more time to let it go and allow me to move on with the future."

"What's in the future?"

"I don't know. But, it's got to be better than where I was and where I'm at."

"You seem to be in a good place to me." he smiled.

"You don't even know me. What makes you think you know what's good?" Mina snapped.

"Okay your right I don't know you. But, it seems to me that you have a lot of people in your life that care a lot about you. And that's more than what some people have." Nick held her stare.

"Yeah I guess." She broke the stare and looked off down the street.

They sat in silence while they waited for Alex and Kevin to show up.


~Inside the house~

"You worried?" Howie asked Brian.

"No. Are you?"

"No. Um.. Well, I ordered two pizzas." Howie sat down but not until he looked out to see what Mina was doing.

"She okay out there?" Brian asked showing he cared.

"I don't think she's been okay for a while Brian." Howie sat down.

Brian frowned "I know. I wish I could bring her back to us. That spunky kid."

~Flashback~

"AHHHH!!!" Mina ran from Brian who just soaked her with a hose "BRIAN!! STOP!! IT'S COLD!"

"Why would I do that?" Brian laughed right before soaking Mina once more.

12 year old Mina ran from Brian trying her best to dodge him. Brian laughed and chased her with the hose getting himself wet as he ran and forgetting the car the two were washing.. Mina grabbed a sponge from the soapy bucket and threw it at him as she kept running, she tripped over the hose and fell. Brian stopped and tried not to laugh at her.

"Are you okay?" Brian chuckled.

"No." Mina tried not to cry.

Brian helped Mina up, "I'm sorry princess." Brian hugged her.

"You’re evil Brian." Mina laughed in his arms.

"And what would your point be?" Brian asked as he let her go. They both chuckled..

~End of flashback~


"Well, she's not a child anymore Brian. And that woman that she has become is hurting and frightened. And I really don't think there's anything we can do to make it better." Howie broke Brian’s thoughts.

Brian cleared his throat "If there is something we could do I wish I knew what it was."

Mina came back inside grabbed her car keys, went out the back door and got in her car. "Mina where you going?" Howie called for her.

Nick walked into the house quietly. Brian and Howie looked over at Nick, "What's going on?" Brian asked.

"She's going to look for them." Nick shrugged.

"Damn it." Brian ran out the front door hoping to catch her before she drove off. As he ran towards the car she just kept going. "MINA!!" Nick and Howie stood on the stoop watching Brian stand in the street and Mina's tail lights fading away.

"She'll be okay." Nick reassured not sure if it was for himself or for the other two.

"Yeah." Howie sighed as he walked back into the house.

Brian walked up the lawn and sat down on the stoop. Nick joined him. "Don't worry she's just driving around."

"She's driving around with too much going on in that mind of hers. I'm going to worry whether she's sitting next to me or driving around by herself. She's my little sister who needs me." Brian sighed heavily.

"Maybe she needs time alone to get her mind straight."

"Maybe you need to stay out of our business. You don't even know us, you think you can walk into our lives and have any idea what's going on with any of us?"

"I'm sorry. I guess I was just... I'm sure y'all want to be alone." Nick got up and got in his car. He pulled out as the pizza delivery man pulled up.

Brian paid for the pizza no longer wanting to eat, he just walked into the house, dropped the pizza boxes on the table and plopped on the couch.

"You hungry?" Howie asked.

"Not really." Brian stood in front of the screen door waiting for a sign of Mina's car lights. Hoping she'd just come back home and wait with the rest of them. Howie sat near by in the house. They both just waited through what felt like an endless evening.

Mina drove to where she knew she'd find Kevin's car. He parked his car in an old parking garage that no one uses anymore. He drop's it off after every raid since the cops know his car so well. "Kevin!?! Alex?!?! You guys still around?!" Mina shouted as she got out of her car.

There was no answer, she leaned up against her brother's car and wondered where he went, she assumed Alex was the one who picked him up but where did they go?

~Flashback~

"You always get caught Kevin. Why do you keep doing this?" 14yr old Mina asked.

"I don't race to get caught Mina. It just happens. I love the speed, the cars, the adrenaline rush. I can't stop." Kevin explained.

"Not even for your family? Kevin when your gone it's weird around here. I hate it when your gone."

"Girl, what are you talkin' about? You’re a daddy's girl, you probably get even more spoiled when I'm gone." Kevin chuckled.

"The house becomes solemn. It's always known that something is missing. And you’re what's missing. Promise me you won't be going back to juvi again."

"I promise baby girl." Kevin hugged his sister tight as he smiled.

"Awww, we breaking up a family moment?" Brian teased.

"Jealous?" Mina through attitude at Brian like always.

"Yeah, I'm tore up inside knowing I'll never have the love of a sister like you."

"So, now that you’re home Kev, what you going to do now?" Howie asked.

"What do you think Howie? He's been stuck with nothing but guys for months and just saw that pretty thang Kristi. I know what I'd be doing." Alex smirked.

"You’re such a pig." Mina said with disgust.

"I'm going to hang with my boys and my family. And catch up with what I've been missing." Kevin answered, ignoring the banter.

~End of Flashback~

"Hey Baby girl." Kevin said softly awaking Mina from her memories. Mina jumped off Kevin's car and turned to find both her brother and ex-boyfriend standing there with cuts and bruises.

"Ohmygod! What happened?!" She went to reach for the bloody cut on Kevin's face.

"We kinda ran into the wrong neighborhood." Kevin answered as he moved just before Mina touched his face.

"Yeah, a neighborhood of sore losers." Alex said with a lisp since he had a fat bloody lip.

Mina looked at him with pain "God, what they use on you guys a baseball bat?" she went to Alex.

"Among other things. Let's just say they didn't play fair." Kevin grumbled.

"Where's your car Alex?" Mina asked.

"It's no longer a car. It's more like a piece of metal with bullet holes and charcoal." Alex said with anger in his voice.

"Damn him, damn Ricardo and his goon squad, why can't they just leave my family alone!" Mina got all worked up.

"Mina, chill. There's nothing we can do right now. Just drive Alex home and I'll follow you." Kevin got in his car.

"Fine." she said before getting into her silver eclipse.

As she drove home Alex wouldn't speak to her "Alex you still angry with me?"

"No."

She frowned, "Well, you could have fooled me."

"I'm not mad Mina. I'm hurt, I'm not going to lie about that." Alex looked at her then turned to look out his window. They sat in silence the rest of the way home.

Mina pulled up into the drive way, Brian and Howie came out of the house as Mina and Alex were getting out of the car and Kevin pulled up. "Where the hell have you guys..." Brian stopped when he saw Alex.

"What happened?" Howie asked.

"Ricardo and his goon's." Mina hissed.

"Those fuckers. We'll kick their ass’.." Brian got all worked up.

"NO YOU WON'T!! THIS IS GOING TO FUCKING STOP! YOU HEAR ME!?" Mina yelled surprising the boys.

"What?" Kevin questioned her completely confused.

"I'm sick of worrying about who's getting who back and who's going to jail. I want this rival crap stopped. Grow up already!" Mina stormed off into the house.

All the fellas looked at each other not saying a word, they filed into the house one by one. Mina slammed her bedroom door shut. Kevin sighed "I love my sister I do, but sometimes I wish she wasn't so dramatic."

"She's a drama queen no doubt but, this time she's right." Howie responded.

"What? You think that this rival shit should be stopped? You actually think it CAN be stopped? Cause if you ask me that's thinking childish if you think shit with this much history can just end." Kevin popped open a Corona and sat down on the couch.

No one said anything, all knowing Kevin was thick headed and not about to let things go. Alex got up from the chair and walked out of the living room. Alex slowly went towards his room, but found himself stopped outside Mina's door. He took a deep breath before knocking.

"Go away." Mina yelled.

Alex opened the door, "I'm not going away."

Mina looked at him standing in her door way. "Fine then shut the door." she got up off the floor and walked to her dresser "So, what more do you have to say? Cause I seriously don't think I can handle much more." She pulled out a black tank top and black boxers with red cartoon devils on them.

"I need to talk about us, about you. We have a lot to talk about Mina and I'd like to get it all out there so I can understand where I stand these days." Alex watched Mina undress in front of him and sliding on her night clothes.

"That could make for a long night Alexander." She climbed on to her bed.

"I'm willing to lose some sleep if it will help US." He kept his frown.

Mina looked at him as she got under her covers, she patted the bed giving him the signal to sit down and he did, she could tell he was a little uncomfortable being so close to her. "So what's so important we need to talk now?" she looked into his sad deep brown eyes.

"Your what's so important. Mina I feel like my heart has been ripped out of my chest. You hurt me bad, babe. And it didn't seem to faze you at all. Did you ever love me?"

Mina exhaled as she looked up at the ceiling, she thought of his question, "Alex, I still love you. I'm just not in love with you."

"How is that possible?" frustration dripped from his words.

"I don't know it just is. Alex, you will always have a place in my heart. You've given me so much and shown me so much but, I have to go on without you now. I love you yes. But, I can't be with you as your girlfriend anymore."

Alex felt like he no longer could breathe "You want me out of your life for good?"

"I didn't say that. I just don't want you in my life as a boyfriend. I DO want you in my life as a friend."

Alex chuckled and shook his head "Yeah, well, I don't know if I can live with that."

"Then you'll have to make that choice, have me as a friend or not have me at all. I'd think about it before answering if I were you." Her big green eyes peering into him.

"Good night Mina." Alex got up from her bed and walked out.

She threw her stuffed elephant across the room and then sighed "Why do men make things so difficult?"

Knock Knock

"WHAT!" she yelled in frustration.

"Hey Baby Girl, you okay? What's going on? AJ just stormed out of the house." Kevin walked into her room shutting the door behind him.

"Nothing." She turned onto her side facing away from him.

Kevin crawled into the bed and sat high up on the bed so he could peer over her "It doesn't seem like nothing to me."

"Kevin, why does everything have to be so difficult? Why can't I just have a Disney life?"

"You want a Disney life?" He chuckled "So you want to be the princess that starts off in a bad situation and then it turns out to be better than anyone could imagine? Cause you got the first part down already." He smiled.

"No, I just want Happy Ever After." She sighed.

"Baby girl, what's going on in that head of yours? You worry me when you shut me out. And you've been doing that a lot lately." Kevin rubbed her arm trying to get her to face him.

She turned on to her other side now facing him but looking into his chest and not his eyes. "You've been shutting me out too Kev."

"I'm just protecting you Mina, I'm not trying to shut you out. I know you're hurting with Dad and all. I don't want to add anymore to that."

"I'm not a child Kevin, don't feel you have to protect me." She stared into his chest.

"I'll always protect you baby girl, your my blood and your more important then anything else in my life." He lifted her chin up to get her to look him in the eye "I'm serious, you mean everything to me. You're all I have left."

A tear fell from her eyes and she hugged her brother tightly "Stop racing. Please, Please Kevin." she begged.

Kevin swallowed and didn't say a word, he just held her.

Kevin couldn't answer her, He looked down and found her asleep in his arms. He sighed of relief for at least at this moment he won't have to make the hardest decision in his life. Kevin leaned back and closed his eyes. Not wanting to disturb Mina, he slept in her room that night. Something he hasn't done in a really long time.

~Flashback~

Kevin heard his bedroom door open and he found his 12 yr old sister standing there. He didn't have to say anything just lift the bed covers. She ran to his bed and got under the covers like a frightened young child.

"What's wrong tonight baby girl?" he asked.

"Was it scary in juvi?" she asked innocently.

"Some times."

"It was scary here." she brought the comforter up to her chin capturing warmth.

"Why would home be scary?"

"I didn't have you to make it safe."

"You had dad." he chuckled.

"Dad doesn't allow me to sleep in the same room as him when things are bothering me. He doesn’t listen to me like you do, I had no one to tell my worries and fears to. I had no one to tell me I'll always be safe." Mina's big green eyes looked up at him. Kevin smiled. Kevin always took the duty of big brother seriously, ever since their mother left.

"Well, I'm here now. And you will always be safe." He turned off the light. They lie there in silence.

"Mina?"

"Yeah?" she whispered

"You think you'll ever grow out of this?" Kevin got no response. He looked over at his sleeping sister and smiled before drifting off to his own slumber.

~End of Flashback~

"I'm glad you never grew out of it." He whispered before allowing his heavy eyes close.

***

"YO! You're making a mess!! Brian why don't you cook at your own home?!" Alex yelled.

"Because there's no food at my home. And I'm not making a mess. I'm cooking there's a difference." Brian smirked.

"Oh is that right? Cause I really couldn't see the difference." Alex grumbled.

"What's up your ass? Besides Mina." Brian laughed.

"Fuck you." Alex responded before walking out of the kitchen.

"Point taken." Brian said to no one in particular.

Kevin walked pass Alex, "What's up man? You okay?"

"What? I'm fine." Alex snapped while he continued to walk back to his bedroom.

"Okay, sorry I asked." Kevin walked into the kitchen, "Brian?"

"Kevin?" Brian said back in the same tone.

"What are you doing?"

"Trying to cook." Brian flipped his so-called omelet.

"Trying is right. Well, just clean up after you’re done." Kevin grabbed a glass of orange juice and went to plop down in the living room.

****

Alex was making his way to the bathroom to shower when Mina opened her bedroom door. They just looked at each other both not saying a word. Alex went on his way to the shower and Mina went her way. Mina walked into the living room where she found Kevin and Brian.

"Good Morning." She smiled before plopping down in between them.

"You want some Littrell omelet?" Brian motioned his plate in front of her.

"Eww, no thanks. I can't even tell what it is." she pushed the plate away from her face.

"It's an omelet. I just told you that."

"If you say so my little duck." She cracked.

"Okay you two don't start with the bickering so early." Kevin grumbled.

"What's your problem this morning?" Mina asked.

"Just have things on my mind."

"Like?" Brian asked.

"Last night? Our talk?" Mina asked.

Kevin just shook his head yes and didn't say another word. Mina studied at him for a moment but was distracted by a knock at the door. "I'll get it." Mina got up and opened the door.

Nick smiled from the other side of the screen door. She stood there for a moment before unlocking the screen door and letting him in. "You becoming another one of Kevin's shadows?" she asked before walking away.

Nick walked into the house "I wouldn't say that." he responded.

Mina plopped back down in between Brian and Kevin. She leaned on Brian who was downing his nasty omelette. "Bri that stinks."

"Mmmm, but so good." he smiled taking another bite.

"What up?" Kevin smacked hands with Nick.

"It's good to see you’re alive man. You had a few people worrying about you last night. I must say your friends get cranky when you worry them." Nick sat back in the chair smiling.

"Oh yeah?"

Nick nodded with a smirk, his eyes moved from Kevin to Mina slowly. Making it known he was looking at her and wanting her looking back. And she did, Mina locked eyes with his mesmerizing blues, she got lost. Kevin looked back and forth between Nick and Mina then just shook his head while getting up from the couch which broke the stare.

"Sorry didn't mean to disturb you two." Kevin laughed.

"Disturb who?" Alex came into the room.

"Nothing. No one." Mina said quickly then changing the subject "Kevin, about last night. We need to finish that talk."

"Not now Baby girl, I gotta get to the garage." Kevin grabbed his keys and went out the back door.

Mina fell back on to the couch with a heavy sigh. "Yeah, whatever."

Alex looked at her for a moment before also grabbing his keys and leaving. She rolled her eyes "Bye Alexander!" she yelled.

"Damn, was there just a cold front?" Brian chuckled.

Mina ignored Brian and got up from the couch and went to her bedroom to get dressed leaving Brian and Nick in her living room. Brian looked over at the new stranger with judgmental eyes. "What do you have against me Brian? What have I done to make you not trust me?" Nick queried.

"You haven't done anything. You haven't done a thing to give me reasons to hate or like you. And don't think Kevin is being so trusting. Cause he's not, he's keeping you close to keep an eye on you. Don't think you have a new friend. Kevin doesn't work that way." Brian spoke unfriendly before getting up and leaving the house.

"Is everyone so cheerful around here?" Nick asked himself.

"Talking to yourself now?" Mina startled Nick.

"Well, it looks like it's just you and me." He stood up from his chair with that smile of his.

Her eyebrows raised "Looks like." She went to lock the front door, brushing pass him. He breathed her in as her sent flowed through him. Mina walked back through the living room into the kitchen leaving Nick standing in his exact spot.

"Are you coming or planning to stand there waiting for my brother to return?" She called.

He walked into the kitchen "And where exactly would you like to go Mina?"

She smiled "Anywhere you'd like to take me." She walked out of the house.

Nick shook his head "Damn, she is going to be trouble.. Bring it on." He smirked and walked out the house shutting the door behind him.

Mina was standing at his car waiting, "You want me, I know you do. But, you can't have me."

"Is that right?" he looked at her with a sensual stare.

"That's right." she smirked, leaning against his car.

"Then why are you waiting for me at my car?" He stood in front of her, inching closer and closer. Her chest was moving up and down as her heart started to beat faster and her breathing became more out of control the closer he got. Nick reached his hand towards her and she slightly jumped.

"Relax, I'm just opening the door." He gave her a sexy grin before opened his car door for her. Mina turned to get into the car “Girl, get a grip, you’re making a fool of yourself.” she thought. Nick shut the car door and walked around the back of his car to get in on the driver side. He looked over at her before starting the Toyota Supra.

"Where you taking me?" She asked.

"Where ever we end up." He tilted his head to look at her before pulling out of the drive and taking off down the street, to anywhere..

Mina watched Nick, his every glance in a side mirror, every shift of a gear, and every glance over at her. He was perfection in her eyes, the most delicious man she's ever set eyes on. She craved for his touch, his taste, his smell and smile. The mystery and bad boy image he exudes was even more of an appeal for her.

"You worried about something?" He asked out of no where.

"You mean am I worried where you’re taking me?" she smiled.

"Yeah." He smiled back.

"No. I'm not worried. Due to the fact if you harm me in anyway my brother and his three best friends will kick your ass so hard no one will recognize you. SO, basically I have no worries." She laughed.

"Good point. How about not being worried because you trust me?" He raised an eye brow.

"Carter, I don't know you well enough to trust you."

He didn't say anything back, he knew she was right but, he still wish she would trust him. Nick drove on to I-4 and Mina looked over at him questioningly. "No worries right?" he smirked.

"Yeah, right." She looked at him curiously.

Nick just smiled as he continued to drive "So, Mina, what's your story?"

"My story is as thick as War and Peace." she chuckled.

"We have time." He looked over at her for a second before putting his attention back on the road.

"Well, what's your story? I know nothing about you. You at least know some about me."

"There's not much for me to tell. I'm a ammature NASCAR racer who dabbles in Street Racing for a little extra adrenaline rush. What little family I do have lives in California."

"That's it? That's all you’re giving me?" she creased her brow.

"What else would you like me to tell you?" he glanced over at her again.

"How about the basics at least."

"Like?"

"Like.. age, status, where you live, what your plans with my family are, and me." She rambled off.

Nick laughed "You’ve been thinking about all that for awhile, haven’t you?"

"I've been thinking of a lot since I saw you that night." She admitted, looking straight ahead.

"I'm twenty-three, single, I live in a over priced one bedroom apartment downtown and I have no plans except to make some friends. And.."

"And what?" Mina looked over at him, concentrating on his features.

"And, Maybe fall in love." He slid his eyes from the road to meet with her eyes. They were locked on him. Mina shook her head breaking the contact. She focused on the street signs they passed.

"So, really, where are we going?" she finally asked.

"You'll know when we get there. Okay Miss. Mina I told you, so, now you tell me." He smiled again.

"Okay. I'm nineteen, single with baggage, you know where I live." she stopped.

"And?" he dragged out the one word.

"Annnd? What more would you like to know Carter?" she played his game.

"I want to know anything and everything about you. I want you to let me in." His words were spoken with sincerity.

"I can't open up to you. Not yet, Not now... I'm sorry." She spoke faint.

"What can you tell me? Or I should say, what do you feel comfortable telling me?" Nick questioned as he tried to pay attention to the road and not her. Mina just sighed and didn't answer right away.

"Okay, I'll make a deal with you. I'll give you one question you can ask me. And I'll answer as much as I can." She looked over at him once again.

"That sounds fair. Okay, this is easy. What is up with you and Alex? You said single with baggage, I assume he's the baggage."

"Good assumption. I met Alex through my brother like I do everyone in my life. I was only eleven years old. Of course I couldn't stand him at first. I didn't know this guy who was all of a sudden going to live in my house, just because he was a so called friend of my brothers. But, it didn't take long to realize Alex was a great guy. One day, a few years of him living with us, I just like, woke up and realized I was seeing Alex differently then I did Kevin's other friends. And for once the guy I had feelings for was feeling the same for me. Of course there was a lot of trouble falling for him. My dad, my brother, our age. It all went up against us until people got use to the fact we were together and planning to stay that way."

"Did you love him?" Nick interrupted.

"I do love him. I will always love him. God, now I'm sounding like a country song." She giggled a little annoyed at herself.

Nick just gave her a half smile and hoped she would continue. And she did, "But, really, AJ will always be a big part of my life. He was my first boyfriend, my first kiss, my.. well." She changed her subject before finishing the other first, "We were together for a few years. We went through a lot together, we had to work out a lot of things through those years and every time we'd conquer them. But, there's no relationship there for us to continue working on. Basically I think I grew up and out of what we had. Unfortunately Alex is still in love with me and doesn't want to let me go. That brings us up to Baggage."

"And to our destination." Nick spoke as he parked the car after a little over an hour drive. Mina looked at where they were and then back at him.

"Daytona 500 Speedway? Why would you bring me here?" Mina was royally confused and getting annoyed.

"This is me. This is my heaven. I wanted to share it with you. And I also wanted to help you stop worrying about Kevin and his street racing."

"How does THIS change my worries about my brother?"

"I think Kevin could be happy in NASCAR. And he wouldn't need Street racing anymore. Which should make you happy." Nick finished his sentence and then got out of the car. Mina sat there for a moment and just thought about all Nick has said. Nick came over and opened her door. Mina got out of the car and took his hand that he reached out to her.

"There's rules, there's more safety and money with NASCAR. I think this could be the answer to those prayers of yours." Nick and Mina walked into the speedway and sat down on the bleachers.

"What I wanted is my brother out of danger completely. Not just street racing and the stupid rivals he collects along with it. I want him out of all danger. I want to go to sleep at night without having nightmares of losing my brother and being left here alone." Mina stood up, "Can you take me home please."

"Mina?" Nick stood up to follow her, "Mina? I didn't.." she just continued to walk away from him, to his car.

"Mina, I didn't mean to upset you." Nick stopped her at his car.

"I know, I do. I just want to go home okay?" She got into his car. Nick sighed as he walked to the drivers side "Good going Nick." he spoke to himself before getting into his car and heading back to Orlando.

The drive was quiet, Nick didn't want to say another word and ruin the day even more. He pulled up to Mina's home and she got out without saying a word. As Mina was walking towards the door she stopped and stood there for a moment, she took a deep breath before turning around. Nick watched her from inside his car wondering what she was doing. Mina walked back to his car as he rolled down his window.

"It was a good day Nick, I enjoyed spending time with you." She said with no emotion before walking back to the house.

Nick just rolled his eyes while shaking his head "Women." Nick pulled out of the drive.

"Where have you been?" Kevin asked right as Mina entered the house.

"Out for a drive with Nick. Why?" Mina dropped her stuff on the chair.

"Think you should let me know these things?"

"Don't get all fatherly on me now Kevin." She rolled her eyes while plopping into the chair.

"What did you do all day? With him." Alex butted in.

"We drove to Daytona. Talked. He drove me home. There, you both have now had the blow by blow of what I was doing. Ya happy?" Mina growled before walking out of the living room.

"Give me a P!" Brian cheered.

"P!" Alex, Kevin and Howie laughed.

"Give me a M!" Brian continued.

"M!" they went along.

"Give me an S! What that give us boys?!" Brian yelled with his arms stretched above his head.

"MOOD SWINGS!" Kevin yelled before they all laughed.

"What are you boys up to?" Kristi walked into the house hearing laughter.

"Nothing. Where've you been girl, Getting yourself a new man?" Kevin asked as Kristi took a seat on his lap.

"I didn't want to tell you but.. Yeah, I found a new man." she smirked.

"Mm, well, just tell him he'll have to go through me first." Kevin placed his lips to hers, leaving them there to linger for a moment.

"Could y'all go somewhere else and do that? Like your room?!" Alex grumbled.

"Oh, Alex, You still pouting about Mina?" Kristi asked with her bottom lip hanging out. Alex gave her a dirty look for his response. Kristi laughed before placing another kiss to her man's lips.

"You know AJ, You could find someone new." Howie hesitated.

"I think I'd be better off with no one. Thanks." Alex got up and left the room.

"Aw, don't be like that AJ." Kristi called out to him as he walked off "I didn't mean to upset him."

"Girl, you can't do any more harm than what has already been done. Mina's been breaking not just his heart but his whole being into tiny little pieces." Brian informed.

"What have I missed? They were still friends the last I knew." Kristi looked confused.

"We have no clue, and were trying to stay out of it." Howie responded.

****

Nick pulled up to Richardson's Garage the next morning. As he was walking up to the garage that extra hot morning he found Kevin, Brian and Howie working on a beat up Honda S2000.

"What you guys got here?" Nick asked.

"AJ's new car." Howie grinned.

"We're gonna surprise him with a new car since the boy has been so down in the dumps." Brian added.

"Not to mention it's my fault his other car got destroyed." Kevin slid from underneath the car "What you been up to Nick?"

"Just chillin'. You guys want some help?"

"Kev! The Eng..." Mina stopped in mid-sentence when she say Nick standing there in tight faded jeans and black fitted T-shirt.

"Earth to Mina, Come in Mina?" Brian chuckled.

She blinked and focused on Brian, "What?"

"How was your trip? Is there really life out there?" He kept a straight face.

"Yes, I found others just like you? They were wondering when you plan on coming home... As I was saying. Kevin I called and the Spoon Engine can be delivered here in two weeks."

"Great, somehow we need to keep this a secret from Alex for two weeks. Brian, keep your mouth shut." Kevin eyed his best friend

"What? My lips are sealed." He zipped his lips.

Howie and Mina rolled their eyes "Mmmhmm."

"How exactly ARE you going to keep this from him? He works here." Nick brought an excellent point up to their attention.

"Well, lately he's been just bumming around the house and running off to who knows where. So, if we can keep him away from here for awhile we might just get away with it." Kevin explained.

Mina walked back into the office as the boys continued to talk and work on AJ's car. She smacked her gum as she stocked the counter of car accessories. She put things in their place in a routine, like she's been doing this for her whole life and that may have to do with because this has been her life.

"Hey Mina, I'm about to head out. You gonna be at Movie night?" Howie asked.

"Where else would I be? Do I have a life outside you boys?" She looked over her shoulder.

"No, and why would you want anything but us in your life?" He smirked before walking out.

"Hey Howie!" Mina shouted as he walked out the door. He paused and walked back in.

"Yeah?"

"Where you going so early?" she asked curious.

"To find AJ and make sure he doesn't come here. We want to keep this car a secret. Why?"

"Well, I was just wondering when will we get to hang out like we use to? I want to go do something just you and I soon. I miss my Howie time."

He smiled "How about tomorrow? Just you and I."

"Cool." She beamed like the little girl Howie remembered when he first met her.

Howie walked back out and took off. Mina continued her usual office duties as the boys worked on AJ's car that at the moment doesn't look like much of a car.

****

Howie pulled up to the Richardson home and figured that's the best place to look for Alex first. He walked into the back door. "Hey Alex! You here?!" Howie yelled.

"Yeah!" Howie heard from the other room, he walked into the living room and found Alex lying on the couch watching TV. "Man, what are you doing?" Howie asked shaking his head in disappointment.

"Chillin'. Or as Kevin would say 'Chillin' like a villain'" Alex stuffed some potato chips in his mouth.

"Man, what is up? You never do this. Lying around the house stuffing your face like a slob."

"Did you come here to give me a hard time Howie? Or was there a real reason you decided to come over?" AJs annoyance was shown.

"Well, I came here to see if you wanted to hang out or something." Howie stood there feeling uncomfortable for the first time around Alex.

"Oh.." Alex paused "Well, what did you want to do?" Alex asked curious.

"Um, I really didn't think about it. What do you want to do? We have to be back here for the movie night in a few hours." Howie responded.

Alex shrugged "I'm happy where I'm at. You're welcome to join me." Alex flipped the channel to Jerry Springer.

Howie took a seat and sighed "I guess this will do."

~Richardson's Garage~

"So, what are you guys doing tonight? Is there a race?" Nick asked as he wiped his greasy hands on a rag.

"It's movie night." Brian responded.

"What's movie night? You guys go see a movie?" Nick asked.

"It's a tradition we have once a month at my house. We all get together and watch like three movies in one night. Just hang out and stay up all night. It's a tradition we started when we were really young and can't seem to break it." Kevin answered.

"That sounds cool, Hey Kevin, you think about what we talked about the other day? About Nascar?" Nick leaned on AJ's car.

Kevin cleared his throat before taking a sip of Mountain Dew "Yeah, I need to think a little longer."

"I'm heading out Kev. See ya tonight." Brian walked out of the garage, "LATTA MINA!"
"ADIOS!" Mina yelled from the office.

"Yeah, I better get going to." Nick said tossing the rag onto a counter of tools.

"Hey Nick?!" Kevin called out.

"What up?" Nick stopped.

"If you're bored tonight. I'm sure Mina wouldn't mind you hanging at our house. Just show up whenever. Like I said it's an all nighter." Kevin took another chug of soda.

"I just might stop by. Thanks." Nick walked out of the garage leaving Kevin alone.

"This car is gonna be a dream." Kevin ran his hand down the frame. "AJ should be damn happy with this beauty when we're done." Kevin talked to himself. He walked into the office to find Mina flipping through a magazine as she sat behind the counter.

"You ready to call it a day Baby girl?" Kevin locked the front door.

"Been ready. So, what are we renting tonight?" She jumped off her stool, threw the magazine on the counter.

"We're going with Scarface, Lethal Weapon 2 and Die Hard." Kevin answered as he turned out the lights following Mina out the office back into the garage.

"Sounds like a typical movie night. Someday y'all gonna watch somethin’ other than action flicks." Mina walked out the garage into the hot sun.

"What like some chick flick? That will never happen miss thang." Kevin pulled the garage door down and locked it.

"We'll see. I'll meet ya at home." Mina said as she got into her car.

"See ya." Kevin walked up to his car as Mina sped off.

"Alright! Alright! I'm ready for the night to begin. You may start the movie now." Brian clapped his hands as he rushed for the couch.

"Brian you need serious help." Mina laughed.

"Mina this isn't news." Alex smirked as he plopped on the couch next to Brian.

"Okay so where's the pizza and popcorn?" Kevin asked as he was about to pop in the first movie.

"Here comes the popcorn!" Howie announced as he walked into the living room with two large bowls of freshly popped popcorn.

"And the pizza should be here soon." Mina smiled.

Howie set the bowls on the coffee table and then sat in a chair. Mina was about to take a seat when the door bell rang "That must be the pizza." She got up and went to the door. She stopped at the screen door, her smile leaving her face.

"Hey."

"Hey." She replied still not letting him in.

"Um, Kevin invited me. Is it okay with you that I’m here? I mean, I'll leave if you don't want me to be here. I wouldn't want to ruin your evening."

"Nick, if my brother invited you then you have every right to be here." She opened the door.

He walked passed her and stopped, he looked down at her, "Can we talk?"

Mina stared into his incredible blue eyes, "About?"

"Us." He answered as he stepped back outside. She stood there contemplating if she actually wanted to waste her time. She took a deep breath and then followed him out the door.

Nick leaned up against the porch railing one foot on the first step as the other foot rested on the second step. Mina stood across from him "So, talk."

"Why are you so angry with me?"

"Why do you really care?" she snapped back.

"Damn.. You really have some issues girl. You love to push people away don't you?" Nick called her out.

"Excuse me? Don't go acting like you know me Nick Carter. Because you clearly don't."

Alex got up to see what was keeping Mina. He stood in front of the screen door watching and listening to Mina argue with Nick, he knows he should walk away, but he couldn’t. "Is there a problem Mina?" Alex made his presence known as he stared down his enemy Nick.

"No, Alex there's no problem. I think Nick was on his way home." She began to head for the door.

"Mina?" Nick stopped her.

"What?" she didn't look at him.

"We really need to finish this." He spoke softly. Alex looked at the two of them, brow creased.

"Fine." She answered then looked up at Alex, "I'll be fine AJ."

Alex sighed and walked back into the living room, now with a permanent frown and that nasty bad mood. He slumped on the floor near the couch and pretended to be watching the movie.

"I'm sorry if I stepped over some invisible line with you Mina. But, you don't make it easy on a guy. I never know where I stand with you. One minute I feel we're getting along great, the next thing I know I'm having to defend myself."

"I'm sorry, my presence makes your life so difficult."

"Stop that. Stop with the defense. I'm not here to hurt you in anyway. I just want to have the chance to get to know you." Nick got closer to her.

"When did you all of a sudden become so open? It's not like you've given me any chance to get to know YOU Nick. So, why should I be so open to letting you get to know me? Nick, I've only known these four young men all my life. You come strolling into our world and I'm supposed to just trust you? I'm sorry it doesn't work that way."

"I don't expect you to trust me. Not yet. But, at least give me a chance.. All I want is a chance." He spoke soft and slow.

"I don't know if I want another bad boy in my life Nick. I've had enough worries I don't need one more person to be added to the list."

"I'm not a bad boy Mina. I'm not here to bring more trouble."

She laughed "Nick, Hun, trouble is all over you. You drive into town in your fancy street rod, meet my brother and give him new ideas of how to put his life into danger. You're trouble whether you know it or not."

"Are you still mad about the NASCAR thing?"

"No, I'm scared. Not mad." she looked down at the ground.

He reached out to touch her hand that was fighting with her other hand. She dropped both her hands to be free for him to grab. Nick took her right hand and pulled her down to take a seat on the porch. They sat close as he never let go of her hand, he held it tight, "Scared about what?"

"About Kevin, getting involved with more dangerous racing. Like that NASCAR business. I'm terrified he'll never stop street racing all together. And I'm scared that I'm falling for you."

Nick didn't respond, he couldn't, he wasn't sure if the last sentence was really what he heard or if it was just a trick his ears were playing on him.

A car pulled up to the curb, Mina looked up and noticed, "Pizza's here." She stood up and walked to meet the pizza guy. She gave him the money and took the two large pizza's. Mina walked up the sidewalk, up the porch passing Nick. As she opened the door she asked, "Are you coming?"

Nick shook his head quickly trying to clear his mind. "Yeah, Yeah I'm coming." he got up and followed her.

***

"What took you so long?" Brian asked as the two rounded the corner. "I've been starving in here."

"Brian my dear, you could use some starvation." Mina smirked as she dropped the two pizza boxes on the coffee table.

"I'm offended." Brian played hurt.

"And I'm thrilled." She smiled before laughing.

"Alright you two, some people are actually trying to watch the movie." Howie chuckled.

"What are we watching? Oh lord, Scarface? You guys are so boring at times." Mina grabbed a slice of pizza before taking a seat on the floor in front of the coffee table.

"Girl, how can you say Scarface is boring? This is a classic gangster movie. Come on, Al Pachino as Tony Montana. This movie is the shit." Kevin raved.

"Good God, I'm so sorry for insulting your movie." She rolled her eyes. In truth she didn’t mind watching the movie, it was one they’ve watched many times, it was almost part of the movie night tradition. She just loved ruffing up feathers.

Nick smirked at her before taking a seat on the floor right next to her, pizza in hand. "You need something to drink? We have beer, soda, kool-aid, juice and water." Mina asked Nick.

"I could use some KOOL-AIIIIID." Brian responded child-like.

Mina looked over her shoulder "Was I asking you?"

"No, But, since you’re getting up." He smiled that trademark grin.

She shook her head and rolled her eyes before looking back at Nick, "Yeah, I could use something to drink. But, I'll get it, no need for you to serve me." He smiled. He stood up and was about to enter the kitchen before looking over his shoulder to ask, "Mina, would you like anything?"

She couldn't help but smile "Um, sure. A Pepsi would be nice."

"Yeah, Me too." Alex responded gruffly.

"Don't forget the Kool-Aid!" Brian added.

Nick laughed, "Wouldn't want to forget that."

***

"Alright, finally that one is over. Why did you have to pic a three hour movie Kevin?" Mina complained as she pulled the video out of the VCR.

"Because it was a good movie. Do you want me to really explain it to you?"

"NO!!" Everyone responded then laughed.

"Okay, what next?" Howie asked from his comfortable recliner.

"How about Lethal Weapon 2?" Mina asked as she held up the tape.

"YEAH! Love That Movie!" Brian bounced.

"Chill, boy." Mina laughed before popping the movie in. She got back in her spot on the floor, lying next to Nick sharing a pillow. She doesn't remember exactly when she got in this position but, she enjoyed feeling him so close.

Alex couldn't enjoy the movie night like usual, he was to busy burning fire rays into the back of Nick's head. He was full of anger and didn't know how much longer he could handle it.

Howie felt a beam of warmth come over him, he opened his eyes slowly to protect them from what he knew the heat was coming from. He sat up slowly with a stretch, he looked out the open window in the Richardson living room. "Morning already?" his voice was scratchy and deeper than usual. He looked around the room looking to see if anyone else feel asleep in the living room the evening before.

"What time is it?" He asked himself before looking down at his watch. The gold wrist watch read 9:34 am. He stretched his arms up straight into the air as he moaned. He stood up off the couch, scratched his head making his brown curly hair stick out more. He made his way to the kitchen as his bare feet hit the cold tile floor he jumped a little "Whoo, cold floor, cold floor." He laughed at himself. He walked up to the counter that had the coffee maker resting "Coffee, need coffee, wonderful, wonderful caffeine."

"Howie are you talking to yourself?" Alex stumbled into the kitchen.

"No, I was talking to the coffee machine." Howie placed the new filter in the top of the machine before pouring a scoop of coffee grounds.

"Oh yeah that's better. Talking to machines is a sure sign of someone needing friends." Alex chuckled.

"Yeah, I think your right. I need new friends."

"HEY! What's that supposed to mean?" Alex got defensive.

"You need coffee." Howie chuckled as he walked out of the kitchen.

"I need food is what I need." Alex said to himself while rubbing his belly.

Howie knocked softly on Mina's bedroom door before entering. He found her curled up under a big baby blue with pale yellow speck comforter, sound asleep. "Mina?"

She didn't budge, "Mina? You up?"

"NO." she grunted.

"Well, then why you talkin back?" he chuckled that sweet laugh that always made her smile.

"HOWWIIEEE, I'm tired leave me ALONE." She whined.

"Hey, if you want to spend the day with me you better get your butt out of bed soon." He switched on her stereo before leaving the room.

"UGH, that's not far." She threw the blanket off her, "He knows damn well I can't sleep with the radio on." She huffed as she went to turn off the stereo but stopped.

"Backstreet Boy tickets go on Sale today at 10 am! Hurry up before their sold out!!" The DJ announced.

Mina screamed with excitement "OhMyGod!! I HAVE TO SEE THEM!!" Mina ran out the bedroom.

"What the hell are you screaming about?" Kevin grumbled as he came half way out of his bedroom.

"Backstreet Boys! They're doing a concert in Orlando soon! The tickets went on sale today! Kevin I have to go!!!" Mina bounced all over.

"Mina, why do you like that boy band crap?!" Kevin yawned.

"It's not crap. So can I have some mula to go buy a ticket?" she still bounced with a huge smile.

"Why you asking me?" Kevin scratched his head full of chaotic hair.

"Because you are the ATM, Now fork it over.. HEY HOWIE!!" Mina ran to the living room acting like a child forgetting the money for the time being.

"What is going on with your sister?" Kristi asked as she walked up behind Kevin, wrapping her arms around him from behind.

"She's been taken over by boy band syndrome. Please stay far away from her just in case it's contagious." Kevin went back into his bedroom pulling Kristi back in as well.

"HOWIE!!!" Mina pounced on Howie who was chillin' on the couch.

"What has gotten into you?" Howie laughed.

"BSB! I have to see them!! Will you go with me to buy tickets today? Please, please, please, pleeeaasssee?"

"That's what you want to do today? You pick the day I promised to spend with you to go buy concert tickets for a boy band?" He looked at her with a scrunched up forehead.

"STOP CALLING THEM THAT! And yes." She smiled.

"I'll go with you Mina." Alex said as he walked in eating a bowl of cereal.

"Um, that's nice AJ, But, Howie promised to spend the day with me. You know like just him and I."

Alex frowned, "That's cool."

Howie looked back and forth from Mina and Alex feeling a little uncomfortable, "Yeah, Mina, I'll go with you. But, please don't make me have fun. Cause I hate that group."

"Howie they're not going to be selling their tickets at the ticket counter. Don't worry, I won't make you go to the actual concert. You will not see the Backstreet Boys I promise." She rolled her eyes.

"Okay I'll go." Howie smiled.

"GREAT!!" Mina jumped off the couch and ran to get ready almost falling on her face.

"That girl is in desperate need of help. I've come to realize she is way too crazy." Howie chuckled.

"Nah, she's perfect." Alex smiled.

"Hey AJ, if you want to go with I could use the back up." Howie smiled.

"Nah, she doesn't want me there. Y'all have fun." Alex walked back into the kitchen sulking.

Howie got up and made his way to the restroom to get ready for his day with Mina. As he rounded the corner he saw Mina looking good like always wearing a pair of red jean shorts and black tank top, pounding on Kevin's door "Come on Kev! I need money! PLEASE!!? Kev, Open Up!"

Howie just shook his head and continued for the bathroom. As Howie shut the bathroom door Kevin opened his Bedroom door, "HERE!!" Kevin slapped two hundred dollars in Mina's hand and was in the process of shutting the door as she squealed, "THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!" she grabbed her brother around the neck and placed kisses all over his face

"Girl, get out of here." He laughed.

"Have fun today Mina!" Kristi yelled from inside the bedroom.

"Hey girl, when did you get here?" Mina walked passed Kevin and welcomed herself into his room. He just sighed while throwing his hands up in the air.

"Late last night. So, what have you been up to? Anything I should know about?" Kristi smiled as Mina sat on the end of the bed.

"Driving us all insane." Kevin cracked as he crawled back into bed next to his girlfriend.

"Well, that's nothing new. So, I hear you got a thing for the new guy." Kristi smiled.

"What? Who said?" Mina scowled at Kevin.

"Was it a secret?" Kevin smirked.

Mina rolled her eyes "I wouldn't say I have a thing for him. I just.. I'm trying to get to know him that's all." Mina wasn't fooling anyone.

"Oh, Okay. Well, have fun with that. Cause, he's a hottie." Kristi laughed.

"HEY!" Kevin acted hurt.

"I'll leave you two alone. Thanks for the money Kev." She skipped out of the room.

Howie finally got changed and was good to go wearing a pair of faded work jeans that he knew looked good on him and a plain black t-shirt, "You ready?" he asked as Mina met him in the hall.

"I'm ready. Let's get going. I hope there's still some good seats for sale." The two walked out the back door, and down the drive way to Howie's car. Mina made herself comfortable and popped in her Backstreet Boys CD, as it started Howie protested "Oh, Hell no." and hit eject.

"You’re such a party pooper." she pouted with the bottom lip.

"How can you go and listen to Limp Bizket, Papa Roach, Aerosmith, great rock and roll and then throw in the Backstreet Boys? That is some messed up love of music." Howie chuckled.

"Howie if you truly love music you find ALL music good in some form or another. Okay you LOVE cars right?"

"Yeah."

"You don't love just one car. You love all cars."

"Not all, Pinto's gave cars a bad name." he laughed.

"Oh you know what I'm saying, stop that." she laughed with him.

"So, what are we doing after you get your tickets?"

"I have no idea." She shrugged.

Howie pulled into the TD Waterhouse Arena Parking lot and Mina's jaw dropped "Ohmygoodness. I didn't think there would be this many people here."

"This should be interesting." Howie sighed as the two of them started walking towards the long, long line of fans. "Oh God, this could take hours. Hours with a bunch of hormonal boy band lovers. I think I have just discovered Hell."

"Howie, don't be such a downer. This could be fun, we can make fun of all the overly obsessed teenie boppers." She wrapped her arms around his left arm while leaning her head on his shoulder as they walked.

"That could be entertaining." He couldn't help but smile.

The two got to the end of the line that was moving very slowly, more like barely moving. Mina was a little nervous about not getting a ticket "What if were standing here in the hot sun for hours and once we get up to that window they say 'Sorry, were sold out'?"

"Don't think like that, Mina if you want to see these lose... Guys I'll make sure you get tickets." Howie said in all seriousness, trying his best to not disrespect her music taste.

"Aww, Howie." She tickled his side and made him break out into that sweet laughter she loves to hear.

"Stop, stop.." He pushed her away playfully.

The girls in front and behind Mina and Howie watched them with smiles as the two goofed off. Howie rested his arm across Mina's shoulders and just chuckled "God, I missed this. Where did you go Mina?"

"What?" she chuckled.

"Nothin', Nevermind."

"Wait, what are you talkin' about?" She moved to look at him eye to eye.

"Well, it feels like the Mina I know was gone for a while there. But, I see she's coming back. That's all." Howie shrugged.

"You think I haven't been myself?" She paused looking down then back up, "Maybe you're right. Things have changed a lot lately. Everything has just been spinning out of control and I must confess I haven't been taking it well."

"Yeah, well, I think you've been handling it better than I would." Howie rested his arm across her shoulders again.

Mina sighed, "I don't know Howie, I think you're a much stronger person than anyone I've ever met. I mean, you deal with some heavy things on a daily basis yet you’re the sweetest guy I know."

"I think you’re bias. Besides, I don't think anyone has it easy.. Damn, check her out." Howie removed his arm from Mina's shoulders and tilted his sunglasses down to see this cute tall, skinny blond in line ahead of them.

Mina rolled her eyes, "And to think you thought this could be a miserable experience."

"Mmm, not anymore. She's hot."

"Down, boy, Down." Mina laughed.

"Hey, do you know what time it is?" The girl in front of Howie and Mina asked.

Howie looked at his watch, "10:24"

"Thanks, God, I can't believe how many people are here. Can you?" She asked.

"I know I wasn't expecting this." Mina smiled.

"So, how long have you been a fan?" The other girl asked.

"A few years." Mina answered while Howie just googly eyed the blond a foot away.

"That's cool. We've been fans from the beginning. We've seen them 8 times. How about you?"

"Never seen them in concert before. This will be my first." Mina smiled trying not to show annoyance.

"Oh how exciting for you."

"And my girl is gonna get awesome seats too." Howie butted in.

"Oh yeah, how?" They asked.

"I don't know and I don't care, but, I'll be damn sure to make this worth while." Howie smiled over at Mina. She just smiled back.

"Aw, how sweet. So you like BSB too? Or you just here to support your girlfriend?" The oldest girl asked.

"Not a fan nor her boyfriend. She's too much trouble." Howie laughed as Mina pushed him.

"I am not." she laughed.

"See, trouble." He smirked.

"I take it your brother and sister." The girls chuckled.

"Nope, just best friends. So, you girls sisters?" Howie asked.

"Yeah, BSB is the only thing we have in common." The oldest laughed.

"That's cool." Mina smiled.

RING, RING, RING

Mina was silently thanking the Gods for the interruption, "Excuse me." She said as she flipped her phone open. "This is Mina."

"Hey girl, you get your tickets yet?" Kevin asked.

"No, were standing in line that should take just about an eternity to get through. Why?"

"Well, we were gonna head up to Daytona. Just seeing if y'all wanted to go."

"Why you going to Daytona?" Mina asked confused.

"Nick wanted to have me check some things out and then we thought we'd chill out at the beach." Kevin explained.

"Um, well, Yeah, I want to go but I want these tickets too. Can you guys come here and then we go from here?" She hoped, while Howie was looking on wondering what she was talking about.

"Shit, Mina, you think the world revolves around you?"

"Did I say that? I just asked a simple question Kevin for crying out loud. If you don't want to wait then just fucking go and forget you asked." Mina let her anger show. People looking at her which pissed her off more.

Kevin sighed loudly, "Fine, Mina, We'll wait an hour. If you don't have your tickets yet were going without you. But, I'm not showing up there for another half hour. I don't want to be surrounded by 12 year olds."

"Whatever Kevin." Mina clicked the phone still agitated.

"What's going on?" Howie asked.

"Well, Nick wants Kevin to go to Daytona to check things out. What things I don't know and that makes me nervous. He was asking if we wanted to go. Of course we want to go right? It's Daytona."

"Right." Howie answered simply.

"But when I asked for him to wait for us he got his Kevin attitude and well.."

"The Richardson tempers start pumpin'?" Howie smiled.

She looked at him not amused "Yeah, basically."

"So, they going without us I take it?"

"No, well maybe. Kevin will come hang with us in a half hour if we can't get tickets in the next hour he's going without us." Mina rolled her eyes.

Howie rested his hand on her back as he moved it back and forth in a calming motion. She leaned on him, Howie knew there was more to this then she was letting on and he knew better than to push her to open up when she wasn't willing. But, Howie was definitely curious of what could be going on.

***

Three loud tweaked out sport cars pulled up into the Arena parking lot. Kevin and Kristi in one car as Alex and Brian came in Brian’s Dark blue Nissan Skyline with yellow flames running across the bottom that turn into baby blue, While Nick pulled up in his Red Toyota Supra alone. All roaring their engines letting everyone know they have arrived. Mina and Howie saw them pulling in. Howie smiled and Mina just rolled her eyes, "The Family has arrived."

"Oh Mina cheer up. You’re half way to the window and I've just been saved from this hell." Howie chuckled.

"Oh stop acting like you’re having a bad time. You've been flirting with girls for the last hour. If anyone is in hell it's me." She playfully pushed him.

Kristi decked out in her black crop top and short cut off jean shorts with fringe hanging was following Kevin who was sporting his usual white tank undershirt and baggy jeans, Nick looking extra hot in more ways then one he was wearing a tight sleeveless black t-shirt and tight dirty faded jeans. Alex looking more together in his wardrobe then usual was wearing what looked like brand new baggy jeans and a red sleeveless shirt. Brian finishing up the pack looks like the most comfortable of them all wearing baggy tan cargo shorts that stopped past his knees and baggy black t-shirt with white lettering that read 'By the time you read this, You've already read it.' All strutted up the long line of fans looking for Mina or Howie. "YO! Mina! Where you at!!?" Kevin hollered.

Mina whistled and Kevin spotted her. All five walked up to her looking like bad asses like always. Parent's getting nervous, teenage girls getting the thrill of bad boys near and boyfriends getting protective. All along Mina just prayed her family would behave and not cause a scene.

"So, I take it you don't have your ticket yet." Kevin spoke with annoyance.

"No actually I do, I just decided to get back in line because I've been having so much fun." Mina rolled her eyes.

"Don't get an attitude with me. Don't forget who's paying for your ticket." Kevin snapped back.

"Okay you two chill." Howie hissed and then smiled at the people around them.

"Hey Mina." Alex smiled.

"Hey Alex." She gave a quick smile then turned back to Kevin "So, why the trip to Daytona?" She glared at Nick quickly before giving her attention back to Kevin.

"I told you why."

"Yo Mina, You really want to see these punks in concert?" Brian interrupted while chuckling.

"Yo Brian, you still want to be able to walk?" Mina snapped back.

"Well, then, somebody is a little violent this fine beautiful afternoon.." Brian smirked.

"So, how long do we have to wait for you?" Kevin asked.

"Just give me thirty minutes. Please." Mina begged.

"Fine Mina, But, no more than that." Kevin sighed.

"You look good today." Nick eyed Mina.

"I look good everyday." She smirked.

"Mmm That you do." Nick flirted, he got close to Mina to whisper into her ear.

"I'm gonna go wait at the cars." Alex huffed before walking away.

"Yeah, I think I'm gonna go hang with AJ. I've had enough teenie bopper moments for a life time." Howie said before following Alex.

"Tell me why! Tell Me Whyyyyy!! I WANT IT THAT WAY!" Brian sang loud while dancing towards Mina. Making her laugh. "Brian you need help."

"Show me the meaning of being lonely, I'll love you More Than That, just quit playing games and promise you'll never break my heart." He sang on no particular tone while dancing with Mina.

"Ohmygod, you are so embarrassing." Mina turned bright red as Kevin, Nick and Kristi laughed as the watched the scene.

"Brian what scares me is you know the music." Nick laughed.

"I don't. I just know the titles because She's drilled them into my poor brain many times." Brian dipped Mina and left her hanging.

"BRIAN! MY BLOOD IS RUSHING TO MY BRAIN!"

"Oh we don't want that." Brian let her drop to the ground before stepping over her.

Mina sat on the ground while giving Brian a dirty look, "You’re a brave little man."

Nick helped Mina up off the ground, she brushed off the back of her shorts still giving Brian the evil eye before she turned to smile at Nick, "Thanks."

"No problem." He smiled back.

"Alright, We're gonna be waiting for you at the car." Kevin announced before dragging Brian with him.

"Thank you." Mina laughed.

"I'll hang here with Mina." Nick smiled.

Mina smiled back at him forgetting why she's been mad at him once again. "You’re not embarrassed to be seen in line for a BSB concert?" she asked.

"Nothing embarrasses me, Especially when I'm with you. Besides they can't be that bad. You like em and all." He smirked.

She just smiled and leaned into him as he placed an arm around her. Her warm blood rushed through her body even hotter then usual just by the presence of him being so close. She hasn't felt that way since... Well, Since Alex and her first got together.

"Nick why did you tell Kevin about Daytona? After you knew it was something I would be so upset with. Is racing all you think about?" She asked in a calm voice.

"I told him because I think he'd love it. And it would take him off the streets and give you less to worry about. I wasn't just thinking about Kevin when I told him. Look Mina, I know you hate racing all together but you’re going to have to realize that your brother loves it like he loves you. He can't just stop. You need to learn to deal and stop worrying about him all the time. You know if you could just allow your brother to do what he loves I think you two would get along a lot better."

"There you go again. Nick stop butting in. From the moment you walked into our lives you've been acting like you know what's best for all of us. YOU DON'T! When Will You Understand THAT!" Mina walked out of line while the people who were around them just stared at Nick who was left standing there.

"WHAT!?" He snapped at those surrounding him. They jumped by the power of his voice then looked anywhere but at him. Nick walked quickly after Mina.

"Yo MINA!" He hollered towards her. She kept walking ignoring him. Nick caught up with her and grabbed her arm, swung her around to look at him, "Don't walk away from me, give me at least that much respect. Don't start a fight then walk away. Your ex-boyfriend Alex maybe a feather weight but, I won't allow you to run over me like that. You have a problem, then tell me, You hate me then hate me. But, don't walk away from me without me being able to say what I want to say." He let go of her arm. She just stared him down. He could tell she was extremely angry.

"Are we going?" Kevin asked from his car, he got both their attention.

"Yeah, we're going." Mina walked away from Nick and crawled into Brian's car. Alex smiled at Nick before getting into the same car. Mina sat in the back-seat full of emotion, arms crossed.

"Great piss her off then leave me stuck with her AND Alex in the same car for an hour." Brian sighed before getting behind the wheel. "I don't know why she just doesn't go ride with Howie." He continued to mumble on.

Alex sat in the passenger seat glancing into the side mirror watching Mina stare out the back-seat window, fuming. Brian started the ignition along with the others, all roaring their engines letting everyone know they were leaving. He pulled out and followed Kevin while Nick and Howie followed him. Brian looked into his review mirror after hitting the interstate to see Mina. "Hey Mina, you okay? Did you get your tickets?" he asked seriously.

"Fine. And No." She said with no feeling, not taking her eyes off the road they drove on.

~Flashback~

She bounced the ball back and forth watching his every move. He didn't take his eyes of the basketball, he moved side to side with her every motion. Sweat dripped off him as she faked him out and turned passed him and made the shot.

"Damn girl, you get me every time."

"Well, bro, you’re not perfect at everything." She spun the ball on one finger.

"One day I'm gonna kick your ass in Basketball and you'll eat your words." He bumped her making the ball fall.

"Yeah well I"m not going to lose any sleep on that one anytime soon." The two siblings began to walk back home.

"You know I missed these late night games when I was in juvi." he bounced the ball as they walked home from the near by park.

"Yeah, I missed them too. Though I did get the chance to work on my game while you were gone." she chuckled.

"Oh that hurt. So, you really mad that I brought a new body into our home?" He changed the subject and got serious.

"Not really. I'm use to you bringing new bodies into our home Kevin. I've grown to love the other two. I'm sure I'll get use to Alex just like I did Howie and Brian."

"Yeah but they don't live with us now. They just spend a lot of time there. If you’re pissed I'm sorry."

She took the bouncing ball from him and dribbled while she walked, "I'm not mad Kevin. Seriously I'm not. I was a little uncomfortable at first. But if you trust him then so do I."

"I trust him."

"Then so do I." She smiled then continued "Though you have had bad taste in friends in the past. Brian being one of them." She laughed to herself.

"Hey what's up with you and Brian?"

"What are you talking about?" She stopped walking.

"Well, before I left you two were always at each others throat. Now, y'all acting like your friends or somethin'. It just weirds me out." Kevin laughed.

Mina began to walk again "Well, we learned something while you were gone."

"What's that?"

"We have a fellow bond. We both adore you even though you tend to annoy us both." She laughed.

"No seriously what made you guys become civil with each other?" He stopped this time curious.

"I don't know. Maybe we both just grew up." She kept walking.

~End Of Flashback~

Mina looked into the review mirror to see Brian glance back at her then back at the road. Alex strongly glaring at the road.

~Flashback~

Mina sat on the front stoop waiting for him to come home even though she knew it wouldn't be tonight. A tear dropped from her eye.

"Hey Mina, what are you doing out here so late?"

Mina looked up to find Brian walking up the dark sidewalk towards her, "What are you doing here Brian?"

"Just taking a walk. You know clearing my mind. Then I saw you sitting out here. Got things on your mind?" He took a seat next to her.

"When did you start caring about what's on my mind?" She got defensive.

"I'm not just your brothers friend Mina. I think of you as a sister. I care about you and worry about you just like he does. I worry more when Kevin isn't around to keep an eye on you. I may act like you get on my nerves and yeah sometimes you do, but, really I'm just giving you shit knowing you can take it." he bumped her shoulder with a smile.

"I may act like I have tough skin but..."

"I know, I know you better then you think I do. And I know Howie is the one you usually talk to and trust. But, I'd like you to feel you can talk to me to. Cause I love you girl."

Mina laughed before wiping her tear, "Brian, You’re crazy."

"Now that we got the facts out of the way. What's bothering you really?" He turned serious again.

"I just hate when Kevin isn't home. Everything feels wrong when he's not here. I just wish he'd stop getting into trouble. All I want is my brother to come home. That's all."

"We all hate it Mina but, truth is Kevin has been trouble from the moment he entered this world."

They both laughed, "I guess you’re right." She laughed more. "But, one day I would really like to have that heart stopping moment when I realize he no longer is looking for trouble."

"Girl, That day will be one I'll have to see. But, really, how boring would our lives be if he didn't bring in the excitement?"

"It'd be peaceful not boring." She stared off .

Brian gave her a hug before getting up to leave, "Hey Brian?" He turned around at the end of the sidewalk "Yeah?"

"Thanks."

He smiled and walked home.

~End of Flashback~

"Mina were here wake up." Alex brought Mina back into the present.

Mina looked out her window with squinted eyes, she saw Kevin's face when he got out of his car, his whole demeanor brightened at the sight of the NASCAR sign. And hers just fell even more.

Mina stepped out of Brian’s car and let out a deep sigh. Alex looked over his shoulder at her and gave her a half smile. She didn't even notice. Alex turned back around with a set frown. Nick walked up to Kevin, "So, you want to check this place out or what?"

"Let's check it out." Kevin looked like a kid in a candy store. Kristi walked right by his side, hand in his back pocket making sure everyone knew he was her man. The place was packed with race fans and NASCAR drivers. Women to girls dressed in their shortest shorts and their tank top to crop tops. Men wearing their favorite driver shirt or sponsors, tight to baggy jeans, baseball caps, rugged to clean cut looks. Merchandise, hot dog, burgers, beer stands at every corner with long lines. Music played over the stadium as thousands of fans waited for the engines to roar.

"This place is the shit." Kevin smiled as he looked around.

"Yeah, it's the place I dream to drive someday." Nick smiled as he looked at the track from the bottom of the stands.

"I thought you said you drive NASCAR?" Brian was confused.

"I drive amateur. I'm not in the big league. Yet." He smiled then started walking up the metal steps as everyone followed him. Mina the last to follow and the only one without a smile.

Howie stopped and let Brian and Alex pass him so he could get back with Mina, "Mina what happen to the smile that's been on your face all day?"

"I'm sorry for being a downer Howie, but this whole place gives me nothing but more to worry about." Her forehead had creases and her mouth had a permanent pout.

Howie took her hand and they walked together to meet up with the rest of the gang who was now taking a seat about eight rows back. Howie and Mina joined them on the bleacher like seats. Mina sat in-between Nick and Howie. Nick took Mina's hand and kissed the back of it before smiling at her, then turned his attention back to Kevin. They talked about the NASCAR circuit and Mina listened but didn't understand any of it.

"Hey, Mina let's go get everyone some drinks." Kristi stood up.

"K." Mina shrugged and stood up. The two girls slowly made their way back down the bleacher stairs to go out to the food and drink stands.

"This place is trouble. And I love it." Kristi smiled mischievous.

"Well, you’re with the right man if you like trouble that's for sure." Mina's mood was shot for the day.

The two girls stood in line while men stared, smiled, winked at them. Mina rolled her eyes "Ugh, just what I want. A beer drinking, pot belly NASCAR freak drooling over me. This whole place is annoying."

"Girl ignore the old men and check out the young hotties. Like him." She pointed out a young man in his early twenties with spiky out of control dirty blond hair. Mina looked him up and down and she couldn't help but smile.

"Yeah he's a hottie. Okay so one out of a hundred." She laughed.

Mina and Kristi finally got to the counter and ordered seven drinks "Okay we can't get anything else. There's no way we can carry any more." Mina held four cups of beer.

"We'll have to come back." Kristi laughed.

"No, I think they should come back." Mina lead the way back to the stands. As she was walking up the bleacher stairs she saw the cute guy talking to Nick. She turned around stopping three steps up.

"Girl what are you doing?" Kristi laughed.

"I can't go up there."

"Why?" She laughed then looked around Mina to the guys. "Oh, because there's too many hotties for you to handle?"

"Yeah all I need is one more." She rolled her eyes.

"Come on I want to know who this cutie is." Kristi walked passed Mina. "Okay boys here's your drinks." Kristi handed one to Alex and one to Kevin.

"Here." Mina sat down while Nick, Brian and Howie grabbed their drinks from her.

"Mina, Kristi this is my friend Wade. He competes with me in amateur NASCAR." Nick smiled.

"Hey." Mina said before sipping her beer.

"Nice to meet you. I hear you’re totally against racing. Whys that?" Wade bluntly questioned Mina with a big smile.

"She doesn't like the danger." Howie answered for her.

"Danger is sexy. Isn't that right Wade?" Kristi flirted.

Kevin looked at her and then she stopped smiling, "What?"

"Remember who you’re here with." Kevin said jealous and pissed.

Mina rolled her eyes, "Danger isn't sexy. It's heart breaking and selfish. If you only care about yourself you race. If you have no one in your life that love you then race all you want. But if you have people who depend on you, love you and would die right along with you if anything ever happened. Then you’re a selfish bastard for ever getting in the car." Mina handed Howie her drink and she walked off. Not being careful as she rushed down the steps.

"Bad subject?" Wade cringed.

"Yeah." Howie sighed as he watched her.

"Damn, I've never seen anyone take racing so serious and hate it so much." Wade shook his head.

"There's a lot more in that girl. More than her anger and worry. She's just lost at the moment." Alex stood up and went to find Mina.

Wade looked at Nick, "Why aren't you going after your woman?"

"Because I think I'm the last person she wants. I don't understand that chick I swear. She's smiling and sweet one moment then ripping my head off and eating it for dinner the next." Nick laughed.

"Sounds like a feisty chick." Wade chuckled.

Howie looked at Nick then back at the track. He was angry and it was taking everything in him to not show it. "You know Nick, you'd understand her more if you would take the time to actually get to know Mina. Mina has been through a lot and you have no idea who she is or what she's been through. Mina is someone special and for some reason she decided to let you have a chance to be in her world. All I can say is, for the first time I don't agree with her decision." Howie got up and walked down the bleachers. Kevin and Brian looked at each other with wide eyes. Shocked by an out burst from Howie of all people, "Dayum." Brian laughed.

****

"You want me to take you home? I can get Howie's keys." Alex leaned up against the car next to Mina.

She didn't say anything at first. She just stared at the gravel. Seconds later she looked up at Alex, "Why do you put up with me? Why do you always come to my rescue small or big? When I'm the one who always treats you like shit."

He stared into her big emerald eyes, "Because I love you. You make it so difficult to love you, but I do. I always will Mina."

She looked back at the ground "I don't deserve your love Alex. I don't even deserve your friendship."

"Why would you say that?" He said so soft while never taking his eyes off her.

"You deserve someone so wonderful. Some girl who will treat you like the prince that you are. Someone who will make you happy. Someone... Not me." She looked up at him with tears ready to fall.

He pulled her into his arms, "Mina, Mina, Mina... Why are you so hard on yourself? Just let me love you." He held her tight.

Howie stopped three feet away from the car Alex and Mina stood embracing each other. He didn't move. He just watched them. Alex with his arms wrapped around Mina, her face buried into his chest.

"I want to go home Alex. Take me home..." She whispered.

He moved away from the car so he could open the door for her. She looked up and saw Howie. She walked away from the car and Alex. She went towards Howie. "I'm sorry for making such a scene once again."

"Mina you are just speaking your mind and we would be worried if you didn't." He smiled. "So.. what's going on with you and AJ?"

"He's taking me home. I don't want to be here." She leaned on Howie as he wrapped his arm around her. They walked to the car.

"I can take you both home." Howie said as they went towards the car.

Alex sat in the back seat with Mina while Howie got in the drivers seat. They knew she wasn't okay. She hasn't been okay for months. But, tonight could be when she finally breaks and let's the Mina they know and love come back to them. Howie looked in the rear view mirror looking at Mina who was allowing Alex to hold her. "Tonight is going to be a long emotional night."

Howie pulled into the drive and parked his car. He turned to the two in the back-seat. Both curled up sleeping. So peaceful, completely free from stress or worry. He sighed.

~Flash Back~

Howie stormed into Mina's room to find that she wasn't alone. Alex looked like a deer caught in headlights "Howie. Howie, Howie, Howie man, Howie you cannot. And I do mean you cannot tell anyone you know about us." Alex stumbled as he pulled on his jeans in a nervous fret.

"Uh, um. I'll go." Howie not able to think straight. Shock was taking over his whole body.

"Howie, please promise." Mina begged from the sheet covering her.

"I won't say anything. But Alex, if Kevin or Mike find out you’re sleeping with their Baby Girl you will be a homeless man with no legs. And I don't want any part of that." Howie walked out of the room with his hands over his eyes.

*Moments later*

Mina sat down next to Howie on the concrete Stoop "Hey."

He looked over at her "hey." Is all he could say in return.

"Howie you’re my best friend and I know I should have told you,"

"Yeah you should have. I thought no secrets Mina. I tell you everything. My mother's drug addiction, my father's drunken out rages. My deepest thoughts and dreams. I thought we agreed we could trust each other with everything. Why didn't you tell me?" Howie looked mad and hurt.

Mina sighed with guilt "I don't know. I guess. Well, Howie this is different."

"How?" he looked over at her with probing eyes.

"I'm in Love. I've never been in love. Alex makes me feel like, I don't know it's so incredibly difficult to put in to words. I feel things I've never felt. Alex loves me in a way no one has ever loved me before. Do you know what that's like? I mean really know?"

Howie looked at her then down at the ground, "No."

"I didn't know how to tell you that Alex and I fell in love. It just happened. I mean you knew I had feelings for him and that we went out a few times. But then somehow it became more then just two people hanging out from time to time. It became more intense and confusing not to mention scary. It happened so fast."

"How long have you two been hiding?" Howie asked scared to know.

"Four Months." She crunched up her face scared to get his response.

"FOUR MONTHS!?" Howie asked in disbelief.

"I know, I know. But Howie once it started we didn't know how to tell anyone. For one thing Kevin act's like he's okay with the whole crush thing but you and I both know he'd flip if he knew how much more is going on besides some crush. If he knew what was between Alex and I, He'd be beyond difficult to deal with. And not to mention my father would not just kill Alex but I'm sure I'd be decapitated."

"But you could have told me." Howie looked back at her with such hurtful eyes.

"I should have. I'm sorry." She leaned her head on his shoulder, and gave puppy dog eyes, "You don't hate me do you?"

"Mina you know I could never hate you." he sighed with defeat.

"You won't tell anyone will you? I mean about Alex." She lifted her head off his shoulder giving him a pout.

"No, I won't tell. But you two can't hide forever. They will find out. I can't believe you've been able to hide it this long. I mean you're all under the same roof." Howie shook his head.

"I know and we'll tell them soon. I just don't know when or how." She sighed.

~Flashback ends~

Howie reached over to wake the two sleeping in the back seat "Hey, we're home."

Mina sat up with slightly opened eyes "We're home already? Wow, I can't believe I slept that good. I haven't slept soundly in months."

Howie frowned at her, "Well, I'm glad you got some sleep," He looked over at Alex who was out cold, "AJ! Wake UP!" Howie smacked Alex's leg.

"What?" Alex sprung up out of a deep sleep. Making Mina and Howie chuckle.

"We're home." Mina smiled before getting out of the car.

Howie followed Mina into the house as Alex slowly emerged from the car. Mina plopped down into the recliner in the living room. Howie stood in the middle of the room looking at her. She yawned before looking up at him looking at her, his eyes connected with hers. "I miss you Mina, We all miss you." His voice cracked.

Alex walked into the house right before Howie spoke. When he heard the voice of a destroyed Howie he slowly walked into the room. Not wanting to interrupt but also needing to be apart of what will occur.

Mina's forehead crinkled with confusion, "I'm right here Howie what are you missing?"

"You. The girl that had a smile that could bring my abused heart back to a warm fully beating heart. The girl that could make us laugh with the silliest of ways, and had a laugh that was something like music. I miss the spunky but warm hearted woman you grew up to be, but has been taken from us all just months ago." Howie stood there feeling drained.

Alex didn't move from the wall that separated the living room to the entrance of the home. He doesn't remember when he started holding his breath. Or when the beating of his heart became so loud. "Mina." He finally spoke.

She looked over her shoulder to see Alex walk into the room and take a seat on the couch near her chair. He sat on the edge of the sofa his arms resting on his knees as he leaned to be closer to her "Mina, you know I love you. And I've been sitting back quiet for too long. I'm glad Howie had the courage to bring up the fact you've been gone. I'm scared that you’re gone forever,"

"I'm not Gone. I'm not someone else. You speak about me like I’m dead. I don't know why you guys are being so dramatic. I'm fine." she interrupted in disbelief of what is being brought to her attention.

"Mina you're not fine." Howie said still standing in the middle of the room.

"What do you two want from me? I don't know what you want." She started getting angry and uncomfortable.

"To stop shutting us out. Stop bottling up all your feelings. Yell, cry, fight, just do something other then shutting everyone out." Howie explained as he walked closer to her.

"I don't have the need to do those things. I'm fine. Why can't you two realize that I'm FINE?" she threw up her hands as she leaned back into her recliner annoyed.

"You are not Fine." Alex grumbled.

"Don't tell me what I feel. You don't have that connection with me anymore Alexander. Don't you forget THAT." She got into Alex's face, she was filled with anger.

"Mina?" Howie tried to get her to stop attacking Alex but was ignored.

"Fine if hurting me makes you feel better go for it. Tear me down. But I WILL NOT let you hide from me anymore." Alex stood his ground.

Mina got out of her chair to leave the room but Howie grabbed her by the arm. She looked down at his hand wrapped around her small arm "Howie?" He's never been forceful with her before.

"I can't let you run this time Mina. Not this time." He spoke so gentle, so sad.

"Fine you guys want me to yell?" she asked as she paced the living room floor.

"Yes, if that's what will help." Alex answered from the sofa.

"You want me to Cry?" she continued to pace while the boys sat back and watched her as she started to let go, it was like watching a ticking time bomb. "I'm angry. I'm pissed off at the world. I want my father back. I want my brother to stop acting like some tough guy and be the protecting teddy bear he always use to be to me. I want the racing world to not exist. I Want My Life Back! I want the life we all use to have filled with fun and carefree living, instead of heartache and pain. I WANT PEACE!!" She yelled the last part with tears.

The two men sat there not able to move nor knowing what to do. She stood in front of them with tears streaming down her face as she expressed her feelings in anger, "I want my father to come through that door hollering 'Baby girl, I have a surprise for you.' me in return running into the room like so many times I did before to find that my surprise is a big bear hug from my father, like he always gave me after coming home from the garage full of mechanic grease and dirt. I miss my moments with him that no one else saw or had from him. I feel so empty. I.. Feel.. alone."

"Mina you’re not alone. You have Kevin. You have us." Howie went to her wrapping his arms around her as she in return held on to him so tight. Gripping his shirt with so much strength, trying to release her hate and fear. She sobbed and clung to him. "I miss him so much Howie."

"Shhh, I know." He didn't know what to say. He looked at Alex who sat there looking like a broken child.

"Why? Why did he get taken from me?" She asked full of pain.

"I don't know. I don't understand it myself. But, Mina God always has a reason and we have to respect it and go on with our lives." Howie pulled away to be able to look at her.

Alex got up "Mina. Mike would be upset that you have stopped living because of him. I can hear him now 'Mina, get your ass out of the house and live girl.'" Alex deepened his voice to sound like Mike Richardson. Making Mina laugh and Howie smile.

Mina touched Alex's arm with a smile, "You're right. You both are. I know I need to stop mourning and start living. But it's just so hard to go on with out the one person who was always there." she frowned.

"He's still here Mina. He will always be with you. Apart of you." Alex spoke soft and sincere.

She just smiled at him with what little strength she had left. She exhaled, "I'm exhausted you guys. Can we just drop this for now?"

"Yeah. I think we've all had enough." Alex gave her a half smile.

She walked out of the room and both Howie and Alex dropped to the couch with an exhale. They looked at each other and sighed "Well, are we the biggest assholes or the greatest friends for making her break down like that?" Howie asked Alex.

"I don't know. I really don't know. I'm still worried about her Howie." Alex stared up at the ceiling with a frown.

"Me to Alex. Me too."

They both sat there in silence thinking. Minutes later Alex stood from the couch and went for Mina's room. He knocked softly on her bedroom door but there was no answer. He opened it slowly and saw her toss and turn. "Mina?"

She lifted her head to see him "Come on in Alex." She whispered.

Alex took off his shoes before crawling into her bed. He lied there not knowing if he was welcome to hold her or not. She curled up into him showing him she needed his presence that evening. "Just don't hate me Alex."

"What? Mina stop saying I hate you."

"I don't mean to hurt you. And sometimes I don't realize I've done anything hurtful. Truth is I don't think anymore I just explode, I just react." She rested her head on his chest as he wrapped an arm around her.

"What is the deal with you and Nick?" he had to know.

"Let's not talk Alex. I'm tired of talking. Just stay with me tonight." She closed her eyes. Feeling like she could for at least tonight sleep peaceful.

As Howie lied there in the living room staring at the ceiling in the pitch dark he wondered “Are we going to be okay? Is Mina going to be able to ever except the fact she is now an orphan? I know you took Mike for a reason, what reason I'm not sure. But, why take Mina from us and leave someone else? God, I don't think any of us can handle anymore drama in our lives. Please bring some peace into our lives soon.”

As Howie finished his talk with God he allowed his heavy eyelids to close. Letting his worry of his family falling apart drift away as he fell into a dream. As Howie was completely relaxed and peaceful he realized he was no longer in a dark room. He peeked opened his eyes to see that the ceiling had bright lights shining upon it. He sat up and looked out the big picture window behind the sofa he called his bed. Kevin and Kristi emerged from the first car. Right behind them was Nick and Brian all walking up the lawn to the front door.

"YOU Have To Admit That Would Be Cool!" Brian laughed loudly.

"Shhh, people maybe sleeping around here." Kevin hushed.

"So, what's your point?" Brian asked.

"You're so rude Bri." Kristi laughed.

"This is not news." Kevin chuckled.

Nick just quietly followed the others into the house wondering if Mina would still be up. Howie walked over to a lamp to turn on a light, "What time is it?"

"Jesus Howie why not give us some warning next time." Brian grabbed his heart after all four jumped out of their skin.

"Sorry, you guys just now getting back from the race?" Howie asked as he leaned on the recliner still letting his eyes adjust to the light.

"Well, we hung out at the track after the race and checked out one of the Grand Prix cars. You should have stayed Howie the shit was tight." Kevin beamed as he talked.

Howie smiled slightly, "So you going to ask about your sister?"

Kevin's brow creased in question, "Why? What's up?"

"She finally had her breakdown." Howie stared into Kevin's eyes.

The four all stared at Howie waiting to hear what happened while Howie didn't say a word. Kevin dropped his keys on top of the television before taking a seat. "What happen Howie?"

"Well, AJ and I confronted her and she finally just let it all out. How angry she is and scared. She feels alone and confused Kev. She's really messed up in the head. I mean she's hurting more then she's letting on. What scares me is if something happens to you.." Howie didn't finish.

"Nothings going to happen. Is she here?" Kevin stood up.

Howie just nodded yes. Kevin walked out of the living room leaving Brian, Nick and Kristi awkwardly waiting in the living room with Howie. "Should I go?" Nick asked.

"No, she may want you here. You're her man right?" Kristi's brow raised.

Nick just shrugged while Howie frowned. Brian sat down next to Howie for the first time in a while not cracking a joke or even smiling. "What exactly did I miss?" He asked Howie. Howie began to tell them all.

Kevin knocked twice on the door before entering. He found Alex holding Mina in his arms as she slept silently. Alex on the other hand not sleeping, he stared at the dresser of pictures that sat across from the bed. Kevin stepped into the room quietly "AJ?" he whispered.

Alex raised his head to see Kevin standing at the end of the bed. He didn't say anything, truth was he didn't know what to say and wasn't sure what Kevin was feeling at the moment.

"Is she okay?" Kevin's voice showing his concern.

"At this moment, yes. But all together.."

"..No." Kevin sighed as he answered his own question.

"She wanted me to stay.. I stayed because. I mean." Alex stumbled over his words.

"I don't care AJ. If she wants you here then be here." Kevin stood there like he's just been beaten up. Not really sure of how bad things are or how to fix it.

"Are you going to be okay Kevin?" Alex asked.

"Not until she is.. AJ? can you?" Kevin started to ask but not needing to finish Alex understood he wanted to be the one taking care of Mina this time. Alex slowly moved away from the only woman he wanted to protect. Her arm fell to the bed as he slid out from under her. She grumbled in disapproval before burying her head in the pillow that still had Alex's warmth and smell. Leaving her bed he felt he was leaving apart of himself with her. He walked passed Kevin and left the room not saying a word.

Kevin stood there watching his sister sleep, she started to squirm so he got into the bed. "I'm here Baby Girl, I will always be here. You're safe." He spoke so softly too her. Holding her just as scared to lose her as she is of losing him.

A tear began to fall as he closed his eye lids "Let her have comfort again, Let her be okay. I need her to be okay." he kissed the top of her head as he let another tear fall.

Mina knew the man next to her was no longer Alex. She knew who it was and he made her feel protected and not alone just like the man she fell asleep with. "Kevin?" she spoke barely over a whisper.

"It's me Baby girl. I heard you had a tough night."

She sat up eyes still half closed "How long have you been home?"

"Just got home. I'm sorry I wasn't here for you." he frowned.

"Do you miss him?"

Kevin didn't answer right away, a lump in his throat made it difficult to swallow. Mina didn't move or speak she just waited for his answer. Kevin sat up and sighed before finally answering "Of course I do."

"So much it hurts?"

He nodded she barely saw his movement but she did catch it. She looked down at the comforter that was bundled around her, "I'm terrified of losing you Kev. I lost dad and I never thought that would happen. Half my heart is gone and I don't think I could manage for the other half to be ripped out right along with the other. It takes so much for me to want to get out of bed in the morning knowing someone is missing. Then add the fear of losing you and it's just destroying me little by little."

"I can't stop you from worrying Mina. I wish I could take all your fear and hurt away. But I can't.. I'm angry and hurt that Dad's gone just as much as you are but, I know I have to keep going and make him proud as he watches from above. The fear of losing me destroys you. But the pain I watch you go through day to day destroys me." he honestly admitted.

"I want our lives to go back to being normal. As normal as we ever were anyway." She chuckled to herself trying to hide the fact she had shed tears.

"We'll get back to that normalcy someday Baby Girl. Someday soon." He leaned back down resting his head on two soft feathered pillows.

"You promise?" She asked softly.

"Promise." He closed his eyes as he answered.

"I can't handle anymore of the nightmares Kevin. The nightmares come whether I'm sleeping or awake. I just want it all to stop." She sighed as she lied back down.

"Close your eyes Mina, and forget about your fears and worries. Just let your mind go and remember the good times." she closed her eyes as she listened to her brothers comforting voice.


~Outside Mina's Bedroom Door~

Alex leaned his head against the wall "Let me take your nightmares away forever Mina. Let me take care of you again." Alex sat there for almost an hour as he waited for the room to be completely quiet. The brother and sister both finally falling asleep soundly, he got up off the floor and dragged his tired body to his bed.

Nick moved away from the doorway where he was standing out of AJ's eye sight. He stood there for longer then he could remember, watching a man sit on the other side of a bedroom door that held a fragile girl. A girl he could see meant more to the one sitting outside the door then the man standing in the hallway entrance. He thought he had Mina and really wanted to believe she was falling for him. But truth is he was just distracting her from what she really loved. And that was Alex. Nick sighed with a frown and made his way out of the house.

As his cell phone rang he looked at the name that read across the screen 'Richardson Garage'. He didn't answer, once again he avoided the call. He needed to get his head back on straight, forget about women and focus back on what was most important. The 10 second run.

Kevin hung up the phone, "Still can't get a hold of him."

"Maybe he left town." Howie gave his two cents.

"Good." Alex said under his breath.

Mina stepped into the garage, "Did you try getting a hold of Nick?" she looked hopeful.

"Yeah, and he's still not home. Sorry Baby girl." Kevin looked at her with remorse.

She frowned and just shrugged before going back into the office. Mina reorganized the shelves, cleaned the office and read two magazines, doing her best to keep her mind off him, and the fact she felt that she was just dumped without a word. Mina had Kevin try calling Nick a few times for her since after she tried so many times she hoped he'd have better luck. No one has been able to get a hold of him in four days. He must be gone.

"Yo Mina, I'm gonna go run to Taco Bell you wanna run with me?" Alex smiled.

"Sure AJ." She put on a fake smile as she followed him out to his car.

"HEY! I want two hard tacos, a Mexican pizza, supreme nachos and a large mt. dew." Brian gave his order.

"Brian I don't want to be anywhere near you after you finish that meal." Mina laughed.

"Just get my order right!" Brian yelled out of the garage as Mina got into the car.

"Did you get Kevin and Howie's order?" She asked Alex as he started the car.

"Yeah lots of tacos." He smiled.

"That's simple enough." she chuckled.

As they drove to the near by fast food joint Alex's cell rang, he clicked open his phone as he sat in line of the drive-thru, "Yeah?"

"AJ, this is Nick. There's a run tonight at 9 sharp the track is at national drive." He hung up.

"Wait.." Alex didn't catch him in time. He looked over at Mina not knowing if he should tell her or not.

"What's up?" she smiled.

"Uh, nothing. Just a race tonight." he fidgeted before rolling up to the intercom.

"Welcome to Taco Bell can I take your order?"

"Yeah I need Eleven tacos, two Mexican pizzas, one nacho supreme. Um, two Mt. Dews, two Dr. Peppers and a Pepsi." Alex gave the order.

The girl went over the order to make sure she heard it all and then told him to pull up to the first window. "You going to the race tonight?" Mina asked.

He looked over at her, "Do you want me to?"

"I'm not your keeper Alex." her response wasn't what Alex wanted to hear.

"I don't know if I'm going. It depends on what Kevin is doing." Alex looked at her and found that his answer wasn't what she wanted to hear.

"Why does Kevin have to be involved? Can't you go without even letting Kevin know? Or are you just a robot who does whatever Kevin wants?" Mina's annoyance was evident.

"Mina, sometimes you can be a real Bitch you know that?" Alex looked at her in disgust showing he wasn't liking her presence at the moment.

The rest of the ride back to the garage was silent and filled with discomfort. As soon as Alex pulled up outside the Garage Mina popped the car door open, Carrying two bags of food and leaving Alex with the rest. "Here's your food." Mina placed the bags on the car the guys were working on before she grabbed one taco and walked silently to the office.

Alex hollers from his car, "WOULD SOMEONE LIKE TO HELP!!?"

"DO YOU HAVE FOOD WITH YOU?" Brian yelled back.

"BRIAN! I'M DUMPING YOUR FUCKING MT.DEW ON THE GROUND, IF YOU DON'T GET YOUR ASS OUT HERE!!"

Brian wandered out of the Garage and casually looked at a struggling Alex, "So what do you need help with exactly?" Brian leaned on the car.

Alex gave Brian a dirty look making Brian laugh, "Here, let me help. Why didn't you just ask? geez. Some people don't know when to push their pride back and ask for help. You need to work on that AJ." Brian took one of the drink carriers before leaving Alex behind.

"I'm going to push something and I don't think it's my pride." Alex not being in the mood for Brian’s games.

"Watch out looks like a tornado is coming." Brian said nonchalant.

"Huh?" Howie and Kevin both looked at Brian confused until Alex walked in.

"You know Brian, you need to grow up sometimes. But since that's not happening anytime soon, my foot is getting closer to kicking your ass." Alex snarled.

"Nah, you wouldn't want to do that. My ass is so perfect and if you dented it you'd upset so many girls.." Brian smirked as he took a bite of his taco. "Don't want to make them pretty girls cry do you AJ?" Brian continued pushing buttons.

"Why not? No girl has ever cared if she made me cry." Alex said under his breath, though he was heard.

****

Mina walked into the living room where she found her brother chilling alone for the first time in a very long time. She went and sat down on the couch and looked at her brother who was watching ESPN. "What's going on tonight?" she questioned.

Kevin not breaking eye contact with the television screen, "Alex wants to go to some race."

"You going?" She asked trying to not show too much emotion.

Kevin shrugged "If I go, it's to show support for AJ." He looked over at Mina finally, "Why?"

"Just wondering. If you go, I'd like to go with. I kinda owe Alex a little support." Mina got up and walked into the kitchen. She grabbed a glass out of the cupboard and filled it with tap water. As she was drinking her water Kevin walked into the room.

"What do you mean you owe him? When have you ever felt you owed anyone?" Kevin leaned against the counter staring down Mina.

She shrugged, "I don't know. I've done some mean things to Alex and he really doesn't deserve it. I guess, I just feel bad." Mina walked out of the room, Kevin being who he is wasn't going to let that be the end of the conversation. He followed Mina to her room.

"You should feel bad. You know that? AJ's done nothing but care for you. You break his heart over and over. I never said anything in the past hoping you two would work things out. So, you thinking of getting back with AJ? Is that why you want to go tonight?" Kevin pried.

"I never said anything about getting back with him. Maybe I'm just willing to allow him to stay in my life. I'm not going to treat him like crap anymore. That's all." Mina walked over to her dresser to grab a bottle of body spray, she sprayed herself. Kevin just shook his head "Well, whatever. I'm leaving in an hour." Kevin left the room.

***

Alex stepped out of his car, he saw Nick leaning on his car talking to some people. Alex walked towards him, "I'm here man, who's all racing tonight?"

"Just you and me." Nick stood up to stand his ground.

"What are the stakes?" Alex asked looking into Nick's eyes intensely.

"Mina." Nick said in all seriousness. Alex's jaw dropped for a second before he picked it up off the floor and looked at Nick like he was crazy.

"Mina? What the hell are you talking about?"

"You love her, I could fall in love with her. There isn't room for us both in her world. She's getting confused, I noticed that recently. She wants me then she wants you. I'm not going to play yo-yo with her. So we have to make the decision for her. Who ever wins tonight gets Mina."

"You Are Fucking Crazy! You know what, you sure as hell don't know Mina if you think you can just have a race over her. She would fucking kick both our ass’ if we made her the stakes of a Race." Alex argued.

"Then how do you suggest we deal with this?" Nick losing his patience.

"We don't, we let her make her own decisions. I'm here to race, not to discuss Mina."

"Five Grand, that's the stakes." Nick threw out a number.

Alex swallowed a lump before answering without thinking, "Deal." the two shook on it as the crowd around them oohed and awed over the stakes.

Alex walked off towards his car as Nick turned to check everything out on his own car. Alex tried to play off that he wasn't nervous but when Mina saw him she wasn't being fooled. "Hey Alex? You going to be alright?"

Alex looked up at her as he was leaning over the engine "I'm fine, I'm trying to get ready for a race do you mind?"

She raised an eyebrow, "Excuse me, Damn." She walked off towards Nick. He smirked as he saw her coming towards him, "Hey Beautiful, You coming to be my good luck charm?"

She smiled, "Sure, if you think I'm lucky."

He leaned over to her and placed his lips to hers, she was tense at first but then fell relax into his arms, she closed her eyes and allowed him to deepen their kiss.

Alex's heart hit the ground in a million pieces as he watched Mina kissing Nick. He continued to stare at the scene Nick and Mina gave on the other side of the street, his blood starting to boil, his heart beat going into rapid pace as his anger and jealousy brood. "This is War."

Mina held up the checkered flag, the roar of the engines rang through her ears, she swallowed slowly as she looked into Alex's eyes who stared into hers. She closed her eyes as she turned her head to the right, Mina opened them looking right into Nick, who was staring down the flag. She took a deep breath as she quickly looked over to Howie who shook his head yes letting her know the coast was clear. Mina dropped her hands and two fast cars flew by her. She turned quickly to watch them go as the sound of the crowd rooted Alex and Nick on. Mina hurried over to Brian, Howie and Kevin to wait and see who the winner would be. She was excited about this race, it's been a long time since she could feel the excitement of a street race. She can't even remember the last time she really enjoyed watching. But tonight, tonight was different. It wasn't just about money or pride, tonight she was watching two men she was fighting in her own mind and heart. She watched them both race for their pride and five grand, while she raced to see who would be the one her heart would choose. Her mind was swimming filled with confusion, she has chosen to stop thinking and let her heart do the rest.

"AJ's in the lead, Oh MY GOD, look at him!!" Howie jumped up and down with a wide smile.

"Shit, I didn't think he'd..." Kevin began.

".. No matter what you thought, that boy is kicking ass." Brian finished.

Mina bit her lip and watched Alex's chrome front bumper pass Nick's. Alex was in the lead, only one mile to the finish line and Alex wins. The corners of her mouth began to form a smile until out of no where Nick's car flew by and completely left AJ behind. She didn't know why she couldn't be happy for Nick. But her smile was no longer there and she didn't know if she should go to Nick or Alex at this moment. She turned to her left to see that she wasn't the only one still standing there. Kevin and Brian rushed off to congratulate Nick, while Howie stood by Mina, not looking off at the crowd that surrounded Nick, but at her. His chestnut eyes staring at her as if he waited for her next move.

"Why aren't you out there celebrating?" she asked.

"What's to celebrate? Alex didn't win." Howie leaned on his car.

"You don't like Nick do you Howie?" Mina asked.

"I don't know him, and I don't trust what I don't know." He broke eye contact and looked over at the crowd.

Mina followed his gaze and found Alex looking more angry then she's ever saw him before. Her brow creased as she watched him walk up to Nick pushing people out of the way. She didn't hear what was said but knew it wasn't good when Alex slugged Nick. Howie rushed for the now full out fight between the two men as Kevin and Brian tried to break it up.

***

~Minutes before~

"I'm going to win!" Alex got pumped as he glanced at his side mirror watching Nick's car get smaller. His excitement turned to shock when all of a sudden Nick's car flew by and the race he thought was his was now Nick's. He lost the race. Alex slammed on his breaks and sat there watching everyone run for Nick's car as he emerged from the automobile that just made him the evenings winner. Everyone jumping up and down, giving him high fives, smiling as they congratulate him. "That should be me." Alex's eyes creased to slits of fury.

He got out of his car and walked towards Nick, pushing anyone who got in his way. When he found himself standing in front of Nick he stared into him, Nick gives a smirk, "I believe you owe me Five Grand."

"You got my money, and that's all you'll ever get. Remember that." Alex growled.

Nick chuckled, "No, I've got more than your money AJ. Let's not forget I got Mina."

Before he could think Alex's fist met Nick’s face. Nick spit blood from his mouth before looking up back into AJ's furious eyes, "I knew you never had class. Maybe if you did a girl like Mina could love you." Nick went to walk away, though Alex had other ideas. Alex went at Nick full force crushing him up against his winning car, Nick trying to fight back as Alex continues to throw fist after fist. Nick breaks away quick enough to finally throw his own fist. The fight soon had others join in and a mess of men throwing fists, kicking and pushing out of control. Mina couldn't believe her eyes. Watching her brother trying to separate Alex and Nick from killing each other at the same time having to throw his own punches to protect himself. Brian and Howie at some point jumped in on the fight and quickly she lost sight of them. Everything in her world was going out of control.

"STOP IT! PLEASE!!! JUST STOP!!" she yelled but wasn't heard.

As Mina stopped yelling she heard sirens, more fear was brought to her. Police cars pulling up with sirens blaring and lights flashing. Soon everyone was scattering no longer caring about what they were fighting for. Kevin stood there holding Alex back from Nick.

"AJ just get in your car we gotta go man." Kevin pushed Alex.

"This isn't over asshole!" Alex pointed at Nick as Kevin continued to push him towards his car.

"Mina let's go!" Howie ran passed her, she finally broke her stare from the other men and hurried to her car.

****

"I don't give a fuck! This guy isn't cool and this whole time I have seen right through him, yet all of you were fooled! Especially Mina." Alex paced the floor in anger.

"Well not all of us, I didn't trust him." Howie said under his breath.

"What?" Alex stopped and looked at Howie.

"What?" Howie looked up at Alex.

"You say something?"

"Uh, well, yeah. I was just saying that um, I never trusted that Nick guy either. But, AJ, I don't think Mina is going to be too thrilled you beat him up." Howie spoke hesitantly.

"Yeah well, sometimes Mina doesn't know what's best for her. And this guy is not who she needs in her life."

"But you are?" Kevin interrupted as he walked into the living room.

Alex stopped pacing to look over at Kevin, AJ showing anger for a few seconds before it turned to a soft hurt man "I didn't say that."

Kevin's eyebrows raised in question, he stood there looking at Alex who now was looking out the window. Kevin watched Alex as Alex watched Mina's every movement.

She slowly emerged from her silver Mitsubishi Eclipse shutting the car door behind her, she looked to her right hearing a car pull up behind hers. It was Nick's red Toyota Supra. She couldn't believe he had the nerve to show up at her house after all that just happened.

"What are you doing here?" she asked him worried, as he got out of his car.

Alex moved so quick Kevin and Howie had no idea what just occurred. Alex one moment staring out the living room window is now outside. Howie looked out the window to see an angry Alex yelling at Nick while Mina tried to separate the two by standing in the middle putting a hand on each of them.

Howie sighed, "We have trouble."

Kevin hurried over to the window to see what Howie was talking about. When he saw the scene outside he rushed out of the house. "AJ, chill out man." Kevin tried to calm Alex down. There was no fists or even words being thrown at the moment. Just a lot of tension as Alex stares down Nick, with only Mina keeping them separated.

"I'm so sick and tired of this shit, whatever the problem is between you two it needs to stop." Mina hissed in disgust.

"The problem is your ex-boyfriend doesn't want to believe you're over him. So he's all up on me for taking what he can't have." Nick bluntly announced.

Mina's jaw dropped, knowing there was always jealousy, but never had it occurred to her that it was the only thing that had the two men at each others throats. "Jealousy? This is all out of jealousy? I got news for you both. At this point neither of you have me." She got back into her car, started the ignition and rolled down the window "I suggest moving your car or I'll hit it." she said in all seriousness.

Nick started walking towards her car, "Mina, come on, get out of the car lets talk."

She rolled her eyes and shifted in to reverse while hitting the gas she rammed right into Nick's car, smashing the front making the bumper fall off. "FUCK! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!" he yelled.

Howie and Alex laughing hysterically as Kevin just shook his head and walked towards the house. "Dude, I'd just get in the car and move it." Howie chuckled.

Mina shifted into drive to move forward. Nick ran to his car, jumping into the drivers seat and starting the car yelling "FUCK FUCK FUCK!" just as he shifted Mina's car was coming towards him, he pushed the gas pedal and moved out of her way. Mina's car moved right passed his, then flew down the street going at least 60 mph.

Nick decided to leave as well, knowing all that would happen is another fight. He got out of the car picked up the bumper and tossed it in the back seat before leaving. While Alex and Howie still chuckling as they walk into the house.

****

The next morning Mina walked into the house, she opened the front door quietly trying not to wake anyone. When she went to walk pass the living room she found her brother sitting in the chair. "What are you doing up at this hour?"

"I've been waiting for you, are you alright?" he asked with a deep raspy voice.

"I don't know. I've been driving all over trying to clear my head. Figure out how this whole mess has gotten out of hand." She plopped on the couch.

"Did you figure things out?"

Mina sighed, "No, all I got was more frustrated and confused. Why is it so hard Kev? Why can't I just find a guy and be happy with him? Instead I get two guys who both have great potential yet are both a pain in the ass."

Kevin smirked, "I don't know baby girl, but you do have a problem. And if you don't figure things out soon. It'll just get worse. Those two guys are getting more worked up as you sit here and think."

"Why do I have to figure things out? Why can't those two just work it out and let me know how it all turned out?" she chuckled.

"Because Alex and Nick will never stop fighting for you. Neither are willing to let you go. I can't blame them, but I think all of this is getting way out of hand."

"Yeah it is out of hand, but I don't know what to do."

"Stop thinking with your brain, start thinking with your heart. Figure out who you want and things will be over."

"I don't think it's that easy." She frowned.

"Well as many people say Mina, Life isn't easy." Kevin got up out of the chair and stretched, "Now that your home, I'm going to bed."

"What about the garage?" Mina raised an eyebrow.

"I own the place I can open when I feel like it." he shuffled his feet as he walked out of the living room.

"You want me to wake you in two hours?" She asked.

"Yeah." he answered before shutting his bedroom door. She smirked knowing her brother so well, always responsible when it came to family and their business.

Mina pushed herself off the couch and headed towards her bedroom. Her bed has been calling for her for many hours. As she opened the door Alex opened his, peeking his head out "Hey." his voice soft and raspy showing he just woke up.

Mina looked over at him, "Hey."

Alex stepped out of his room, "Can we talk?"

She stared into his beautiful brown eyes, she didn't say anything just stared into him, her eyes were getting so heavy. He moved slowly towards her, staring back into her eyes. His hand moved across her hip to her lower back, he pulled her up against him "I'm in love with you Mina Richardson, my heart breaks more and more each day as I wait for you to return the love." His voice was just a whisper, he had so much desire and lust in not just his eyes but his voice too. He bent his head down just close enough for his lips to brush against hers as he spoke. "I need you Mina. I need you more than you could ever understand. I'm suffocating without you."

She breathed him in, remembering how much she loved his presence. She closed her eyes for a few seconds as she allowed him to press his lips to hers. He took her bottom lip softly into his mouth. Alex lingered for seconds before stepping away from her. He said no more, letting her just take everything in. He stared down at her as she slowly reopened her eyes to look up at him. He smiled before walking back into his room.

Mina entered her bedroom and fell across her bed with a big grunt, "UGH, WHY!?" she buried her face into the pillow. "This is not going to be easy." she sighed before allowing much needed sleep take over.

"DAMN IT!" Kevin growled.

"You alright over there?" Howie asked from under a car changing the oil.

"No, I'm working on an engine with only two hours of sleep. Yet my darling sister is at home sleeping away." Kevin showing his grumpy side. He shook his hand showing he was in pain but wasn't saying anything more.

"You should have stayed home, we could have handled things here." Alex entered the conversation in the Richardson Garage.

Kevin slammed down the monkey wrench and grabbed a rag to wipe his hands. "Well, if it wasn't for you and Nick I would have had sleep last night. Alex, man, you know you’re like a brother to me, and I'm rooting for you and Mina all the way. But.."

"But, I'm making this worse then better. I know." Alex sighed.

"You just gotta give her time man, She really is confused and maybe she does need to go out with Nick for awhile.."

"What?! Hell no, what she needs is to stay away from Nick Carter, he's trouble Kevin, and I thought of all people you'd want to keep her safe from guys like him." Alex huffed.

"AJ, Nick is not a bad guy. Face it you hate him because Mina likes him. If you'd ever stop and think before reacting you'd see that you're pushing Mina away when you continue to fight with Nick." Kevin explained as he leaned against the car Howie worked on.

"He's got a point AJ." Howie raised an eyebrow.

"I thought you agreed he was trouble Howie?" Alex looked confused.

"I don't trust him, that's true. But, we don't really know him either. And, well I hate seeing Mina upset because you two can't get along." Howie said in all honesty.

Alex sighed and took a seat on a upside down square crate. He didn't say anything just sat there and let Howie and Kevin's words sink in. "She still loves me she has to, after that kiss I know she feels something for me. We have too much history, too much love and trust has been formed how can she just push it aside." Alex thought.

"Yo, AJ you plan on working today?" Kevin growled.

"Huh? Yeah, Um, I just need to get a soda, anyone want one?" Alex stood up and before anyone could answer he walked out of the garage. He reached into his pocket for change.

"Good Morning Alex." Mina smiled as she walked by.

Alex's head whipped up and smiled at Mina, "Good morning. You get enough sleep?"

"Actually thanks to you I couldn't sleep." She smirked. "But, I'll live." Mina walked into the garage leaving Alex with a big smile.
"I knew it!" He celebrated silently.

"What are you doing here?" Kevin asked Mina.

"Couldn't sleep so figured I better come to work." Mina answered as she walked into the office.

Alex pulled out the Pepsi can and popped it open as he leaned up against the Soda Machine. "Maybe I do still have a chance, maybe she hasn't forgotten all we've had together."

A red Toyota Supra with no bumper pulled up to the garage. Alex's smile turned to a frown. He sighed as he walked into the garage ignoring Nick getting out of the car.

Nick walked into the garage, "I need a little help with my car." he stated with no feeling.

Kevin looked back and forth from Alex to Nick ending with looking at Nick. "Then you came to the right place."

Alex stood there staring Nick down. Nick looked over and rolled his eyes, "Look AJ, I'm not here to fight with you about Mina. I just want my car fixed."

Mina walked into the garage, "Hey AJ? You think..." She stopped in mid-sentence when she saw Alex and Nick standing in front of each other.

Alex looked over at Mina catching her glance of worry. He sighed heavily, looked at the floor then back up at Nick, "I'm tired of fighting, point blank." He left it at that leaving everyone else with jaws dropped. Alex took a sip of his Pepsi and went back to work.

Kevin cleared his throat along with the confusion and shock, after a few minutes he finally spoke, "You know where the tools are Nick, help yourself."

"Thanks man." Nick shook his hand, before Kevin walked away and continued to work on a car he has been working on for the last hour.

Mina glanced from Alex to Nick. Finding Nick was looking at her. She looked away before walking back into the office. Her mind was full of confusion, her heart weighed heavy of a decision she knows she needed to make. Mina sat with her head in her hands at the counter of the Richardson Garage, many thoughts running through her head.

****

Mina walked into the quiet empty house, she was happy Kevin told her to go home and get some sleep, she was walking around the garage like a zombie. Her mind full of heavy thoughts and no sleep isn't a good combination. She accidentally spilled Alex's soda all over the car he was working on, Stepped on Howie's hand as he reached for a tool and bumped into Kevin too many times. It only took all three guys grumbling for her to go home when she finally listened.

Mina wandered into her bedroom, dropped her body onto the comfy bed and let her droopy eyes close. Her mind still had many thoughts running, this not allowing her to get any sleep. She lied in bed and let memories come flooding back.


~Flashback~

His lips so soft against her skin, she closed her eyes letting his touch intensify. His tongue tasting her salty skin as he started writing on her stomach. She began to giggle. "Alex, what are you doing?"

"Sending you a message." Alex's voice was husky in hunger.

"Mmm, I think I'm getting it." she smiled, raising her head to look at him. His eyes looked up as his head still was tilted down, his hungry mouth taking it's time on her stomach. She tried to figure out what he was writing on her stomach but all she could make out was M-I-N-E.

He moved up her body to kiss her mouth, he held his body over hers making sure not to crush her. He leaned in enough for their bodies to touch, his mouth was crushed to hers and they both kissed full of desire, wanting more, needing more. Mina pushed Alex to lay on his back, she straddled him, her breathing was heavy as was his.

"Alex.." she paused trying to get her breathing controlled.

He took in the view of Mina sitting on him nude. He raised his hands and rested them on her hips still waiting for her to speak.

"I think we need to start slowing down."

That wasn't what he expected "What? What do you mean?" his voice was calm, confused but calm.

"Us, we are moving so fast. And it's not slowing down at all, it's just getting faster and faster. I feel like i'm on a rollercoaster that lost it's breaks and doesn't have any chance of slowing down. Soon it's going to fly off the track. I sometimes wonder if I should be out there flirting with other boys, and just being a typical girl my age. Not in some serious relationship. I love you, don't think that it has anything to do with me not loving you. Because you will always have my love it's just.."

"I don't understand what you're trying to say Mina, are you breaking up with me?" his brow creased looking almost scared.

Mina looked up at the ceiling with a sigh, she wanted to cry. Truth was yes she wanted to break up, but she also wanted to stay with him, in his arms forever. "I'm so confused Alex. I love you so much it scares me. When you're not around me I feel like I can't think, or even breathe. I need you all the time, I feel like I'm nothing when you’re not around. I hate that." She looked into his eyes, which made her already tear filled eyes start to over flow, her tears were no longer controlled, they fell down her cheeks as she spoke softly "I was only 15 when we started seeing each other. Three years have passed and I feel like I have missed a lot of things because.."

"Because you wasted your time with me?" Alex said a little angry.

"I never said my time with you was a waste." She got defensive.

Alex pushed her off of him and got out of her bed, slipping on his jeans in anger "Well you didn't have to. I get what you're saying Mina, you want out of this relationship because you want to find someone better."

"AJ?" her tears fell as her mind and heart crumbled, watching Alex storm out of her room, slamming her bedroom door behind him.

She curled up into a ball and just cried. "I didn't mean that" she cried to herself, Not knowing if what she just did was the right thing.

~Flashback Ends~


Why did I let him go? I used the excuse of wanting to date other men because I missed out on doing that like others my age. But in the past year I haven't seen anyone, I barely have even been on a date with Nick who has shown he's more than interested. So why did I break up with Alex? I know why I thought was the main reason, I felt so lost, like I no longer was Mina Richardson. I was Alex Mclean's girlfriend and nothing else. But I know Alex never meant for me to feel that way. So why am I not with Alex? And if I'm not going to be with Alex, why am I not with Nick? Mina’s thoughts were all over the place, her head was ready to explode.

"UGH! Now I'm confused more than ever!" Mina yelled.

"Problems?" Kristi stood in the now open doorway.

"What are you doing here? I didn't know you were here." Mina's brow creased in question.

"I came to pick up something for Kevin. I heard you yell, thought I'd check on you." she explained.

"I haven't seen you in awhile, you and Kev doing okay?" Mina changed the subject.

Kristi shrugged "I really don't know."

"What's that mean?" Mina continued to question.

"I think Kev is losing interest. Or just being moody. I really don't know, well since you’re okay, I'm gonna get back to the garage." Kristi walked away.

Mina frowned she really needed to talk to someone, and she knew only one person who understood her best. "Howie." she said allowed as she hopped out of bed. She grabbed the cordless phone and called the garage. "Richardson Garage, what you need?"

"Kevin, let me talk to Howie." she rolled her eyes. It drove her nuts on how Kevin always answered the phone.

"Aren't you supposed to be sleeping? If your not then come back to work."

"Stop being a prick and let me talk to Howie." Mina was losing her patience.

"Yo Howie the princess requests your ear." Kevin set the phone down.

A few seconds later Howie picked up the phone, "What you need Mina?"

"Can you get away for a little while? I could really use a friend."

"I'm on my way." He hung up the phone, "I'll be back later" was all he said as he left the garage and headed to the Richardson house.

"Mina!? You still here!?" Howie hollered when he entered the house.

"Yeah, I'm here." Mina came out from the bedroom into the living room wiping her eyes.

Howie walked towards her with a creased brow worried, confused, and sad, "Mina, what's wrong? You've been crying."

Mina wrapped her arms around Howie's waist allowing him to hold her in his arms, "I'm tired Howie, I wish all this confusion would just disappear."

"Come on let's sit down." Howie walked with her to the couch in the living room. The two sat down, Mina sniffled and Howie grabbed her the tissues. "Here."

Mina took the Kleenex "Howie, what should I do? Should I just give Nick a chance even though my heart has doubts?.. Go back to Alex?.. Or better yet just tell them both to go to hell and leave me alone?"

Howie cleared his throat, he really didn't know what to say to all her questions. He wasn't quite sure if she even wanted answers. "I don't know Mina. Can I ask you something?"

"Of course." she wiped her nose as she waited for Howie to ask his question.

He took a deep breath not quite sure if he should really get in the middle of this love battle. Howie licked his lips while running a hand through his brown curly hair, took another breath before speaking. "I've been curious for a long time. And it's really none of my business."

"What's none of your business Howie?" she wish he'd just come out and say what he needed to say.

"Why did you break it off with Alex?"

She looked at him for awhile, not mad that he asked, but really didn't have an answer. She's been wondering the same thing. "For a lot of reasons."

"Like?" he wasn't letting her off easy.

"I got scared, I felt like my life was slipping away. I no longer was Mina. You know? And I was falling so hard for him... It hurt Howie?"

"You broke up with him because you were so in love with him?" Howie was even more confused.

"In a way yes. I was 18 Howie. AJ's ready for these feelings, I'm not. I don't understand them, all I know is it scares me so much. Sometimes I get so angry for not having my mom around to talk to her about these things. I have no one to talk to, to tell me why I have certain feelings. Maybe I was stupid for breaking it off with Alex. God knows I've stayed up late at night trying to figure out what the hell I'm doing. But, I was more confused with him than I am without him."

"Mina, you're now making me confused. I think the answer to a lot of your questions right now is..." he paused before finishing "You need to talk to Alex."

"About What?" She asked completely confused.

"About those feelings. Maybe you won't be so confused. If anything you might just have some closure." Howie raised his brow while biting his lower lip, Hoping he was right.

Mina sat back against the couch, her head rest against the pillow cushion. Staring up at the ceiling "Maybe he's right. I do need to talk to Alex. But what if Alex takes this conversation too personal. I don't want to hurt him anymore than I already have. And if I do feel I should be with Nick, how is Nick going to feel at the end of all this? I have put him on a rollercoaster." Mina sighed, "I guess I should call Alex." she reached for the cordless phone that rested on the end table.

As she dialed Howie got up off the couch and stepped outside. He sat on the porch to give Mina some peace.

As the phone rang Mina swallowed still not sure this was the right thing to do right now. The ringing stopped "Richardson Garage. If you can break it we can fix it." he laughed.

"AJ?" Mina smiled at his silly way of answering the phone.

"Hey Mina, what's up? You need to talk to Kevin?"

"Um no, actually.. I could use some of your time if it's okay. You think you can meet me up at our old spot?"

"Uh, yeah, sure. I'll head there now." Alex was a little weary of why now of all time she needed to see him in what use to be the only place they felt was theirs. A place they haven't visited together in a long time.

"Thanks AJ." Mina hung up the phone. Grabbed her car keys and stepped out of the house finding Howie.

"Hey, I didn't realize you were still here." Mina smiled.

"I'll always be here." Howie looked up at her with his chestnut eyes.

"I'm going to meet up with Alex. And talk like you suggested." Mina started to fidget. Her nerves already getting to her.

"I think that's a good idea. And if you need to talk afterward, you know where to find me." He gave her a slight smile.

"Thanks." She waved before getting into her car and speeding off.

*****

Alex parked his car at the bottom of the hill, he didn't get out of his car right away. He looked at the path that broke in between the green tree's.

~Flashback begins~

"Where are you taking me?" Mina asked nervous as she followed Alex up a hill that seemed to be in the middle of a forest.

"You'll see." He smiled looking over his shoulder as he kept walking.

"I guess it's too late to ask if you plan on chopping me up into little pieces and burying me out in the woods right?" She chuckled.

Alex stopped and turned to look at her, staring her down, "Don't ruin my plans. I wouldn't chop I'd saw." Alex's eyes got all evil.

Mina's eyes got big, and then softened when Alex began to laugh, "Mina, girl, sometimes you are too easy to freak out. I promise there will be no chopping, hacking, sawing of your body. Unless you are into that sort of thing."

"Right Alex, I ask all my boyfriends to bring on lots of pain." Mina shook her head as she continued to follow Alex, now noticing they were no longer going up the hill it was declining.

"We're almost there."

"Good because I'm tired of this hill." Mina huffed.

"It's worth it trust me." Alex smiled once again. He let go of her hand just as the tree's expanded and she was no longer in a forest, but at a beautiful lake.

"Wow, how'd you find this place?" Mina asked as she took in her surroundings.

"My dad took my brother and I fishing here a long, long time ago. Now I just come here to get some quiet time and think. I thought you'd like it here." He smiled at her.

Mina looked up at Alex and smiled back, "I love it here." She wrapped her arms around AJ as he did the same to her.

"There could be no other place as perfect." She released her grasp of Alex and looked out across the lake again, surrounded by trees, rocks, and most important peace and quiet. All you hear is mother nature.

"Consider this our place. No more sneaking around the house. No more noise from home. Just you, me and mother nature."

"You know sometimes, I think you are too perfect." Mina gave Alex a kiss.

~Flashback Ends~


"Thanks for meeting me here AJ." Mina startled Alex who still sat in his car.

"Oh, no problem. You want to go to the lake or just talk here?" He asked from his car.

"I haven't seen the lake in a long time. Let's walk together." she opened his car door, as he began to roll up the window, then shut the engine off.

"Let's walk." He held out his hand for hers. She put her hand in his and they began the walk the two haven't taken together for far longer than it should be.

"Why did you ask me to meet you here Mina?"

"Because it's long over due for us to really talk. With no interruptions, no escape, if it takes till morning, then that's what it takes."

"What takes? What do you need to talk about?" his brow creased.

"Honestly I'm not sure. I know things need to be said, and questions need to be answered. And I owe you this conversation." she stopped as she exited the tree's. And gasped at the sight "My God, I forgot how beautiful this place was."

Alex looked out across the lake, not able to smile just yet. He stepped away from Mina finding a spot on a smooth topped rock to make himself comfortable for what could be a really long night. Mina looked over her shoulder at Alex then back out at the view "I'm sorry Alex."

****

Kevin, Kristi, Brian and Nick walked into the Richardson home to find Howie sitting in the living room quietly.

"Dude, what are you doing? You look like a zombie. Wait! Did you get attacked by the pod people?" Brian cracked.

"No, no pod people. I'm just thinking. Ya'll call it a early day?" Howie asked seeing that it was only two in the afternoon.

"Well since everyone was splitting I figured not much would get done." Kevin sat down followed with Kristi sitting in his lap.

"Is Mina here?" Nick asked still standing in the middle of the room.

Howie looked up at him "Um, no.. She had to go somewhere."

"Where'd she have to go?" Brian being nosey.

Howie looked at him with a scowl. "Some place."

"Oh well in that case. It MUST be important. Cause everytime I need to go somewhere I always go to that Some place."

"Brian what are you talking about?" Howie's forehead got wrinkled in question.

"You know that place?" Brian still looking completely serious.

Howie shakes his head and brushes off Brian. "I'm going to take a drive." Howie got up off the couch and made his way out the door. Nick looked at him funny, then over at Kevin who was paying no mind, he was too busy making out with Kristi.

"That boy is getting more and more strange." Brian shook his head before turning on the television.

"Yeah you being the King of Strange should know." Kevin cracked in between lip locks.

"Taking a moment to breath are we?" Brian acknowledged Kevin's zing.

Howie mean while got in his car and began to drive, not knowing where to go or why he felt he needed to leave. He just knew he couldn't stay in that house much longer.
"Why is it she is so torn over two guys who do nothing but confuse her and hurt her? I would never hurt her. Can't she see that I'd be there for her no matter what. Support her, love her? Hold her when she's scared, cheer her on when she succeeds, wipe her tears when she's sad, laugh when she gets silly? Why can't she see me? Am I so invisible?"
Howie's thoughts were weighing heavy as he kept driving, now leaving Orlando as he exited I-4 on to the Florida Turnpike.

****

"Sorry? For what? Did I miss something?" Alex questioned.

"You know why, I've been nothing but a bitch towards you. And when I wasn't being a bitch I'm sure I wasn't making things easy for you to figure out. I never meant to hurt you. Or even get things so confusing."

"Mina.." Alex sighed, though Mina didn't allow him to go on.

"No, it's true. I know that I've made things more of a mess then fixing anything. You've asked me before 'Why did I break up with you.' but all those times, I honestly didn't have an answer. I couldn't understand myself why all of a sudden I hated you, and wanted you out of my life. I've never loved someone like you Alex. I've never felt the feelings you gave me. My mind was reeling, and my heart was getting so heavy. I was losing control and had no idea where I was headed."

"You make me sound like I was crack." Alex chuckled.

"I'm serious Alex. Don't make fun." Mina looked hurt.

AJ's smile faded, "Sorry."

"Maybe I'm not making since." Mina sighed as she took a seat on a rock near Alex.

"What exactly ARE you trying to get at Mina?"

"I don't know!" She yelled.

Alex just sat there watching her, not sure if he should say anything. Mina massaged her head trying to release the pounding that started. "I don't know what I'm trying to get at. I have so much to say and yet no words. If that makes any sense."

"Just take your time Mina, I'm not going anywhere."

Mina looked out at the lake once more, closed her eyes and just listened to the sounds that made her calm. Crickets chirping, birds singing, trees moving with the breeze, the water meeting the shore.

"I love you Alex. I love you more now than I did when we first became a couple. You always made me feel like I wasn't alone. You made me laugh when I thought I could never laugh again. You were everything to me. And soon it was as if life was you. THAT is what scared me, I woke up one morning, and you were all that my life was. I had dreams that still needed to be reached and God, I was only 18 and yet I haven't reached half the goals most my age would have. I dropped everything to be with you. I ended up hating myself and then it turned to me hating you. And it's not your fault. AJ, please don't believe it's your fault. I wasn't strong enough to stand alone, and having you there made it easier for me to be okay with Not standing there alone. You get what I'm saying?"

Alex was staring at her "I.. I guess."

Mina sighed "No, I guess it's not easy to understand. I guess what I'm saying is, I can't be with you and be happy unless I'm happy with who I am. I need time to find who I am. And as scared as I am to go out there and be on my own. It has to be done. I can't say I'll be running back into your arms, and I'm not saying it won't happen. All I know is I can't be with you now.."

"What about Nick? You say you want to stand on your own, but you've been dating Nick. How does that work Mina?"

"I haven't been dating Nick. I've been getting to know him. I haven't even been on a real date with him so 'dating' is not what we’re doing. Yeah that's what he wants and sometimes I think it'd be great to be with Nick. He's mysterious and sexy, completely different from any guy I've met before. But, then again I really don't have any feelings other than lust when it comes to him.." Mina looked over at Alex who looked like he would rather be eating nails then hear her talk about Nick. "Alex I'm sorry. I shouldn't tell you those things."

"I asked." He gritted his teeth.

"Yeah but still.."

"Is that all you wanted to say? You just wanted to basically tell me you love me. We broke up because of you not me. And you need time and space but once you’re over that you may want me back?"

"Did I sound that harsh?" Mina asked with an attitude.

"Not exactly."

"If you have something to say Alex just go ahead and say it."

"Alright.. I'm sick and tired of you being Ms. Drama Queen."

"Excuse me?"

"You have become the biggest bitch with ‘I'm the center of the world’ attitude to the point I wonder why I still want you back. You are certainly not the girl I fell in love with. The girl who was strong and did stand on her two feet. I don't know where your head is, but you were never weak Mina. And I'm sorry but I can't believe this is the reason you wanted to break off what we had. If you wanted to just be free don't hide behind some lame excuse that is complete bullshit. I know you better than anyone Mina. Or at least I did. And this past year, you've turned into some girl I don't even want to know. I keep holding on to the girl I loved, but it's obvious she's been gone for a long time."

Mina was shocked, "I never knew you felt this way."

Alex stood up and walked towards the water, He picked up a rock and tossed it across the water, making it skip three times. The two not speaking for a moment. "Just be honest with me Mina. No more lies, if you don't know why then you don't know. But don't start digging down to the point all you come up with is lies."

Mina stared at the back of Alex who still stood in front of the lake. She began to bite her bottom lip. "I honestly don't know what to say. Or what is real. I believe those are the reasons we're no longer together. If they’re not the reasons then, Why aren't we together? Why have I been so miserable and full of so much anger?"

Alex turned to look at her, "Then you need more time to actually find out what's wrong. Because if it's not me as you say. Then it must be deeper. I can handle you being scared of your feelings Mina. But if that's the only reason we’re not together anymore. Then maybe I'm NOT the guy you should be with. Because love is scary. And it can be hard at times. But you should feel you can make it through because you love that person so much, you know that you won't be alone in those feelings and hard times. Because you have each other.."

Mina wiped away a tear, knowing Alex was right, but she still had no peace. The two sat in silence for about twenty minutes before Alex spoke, "I don't think we’re going to find the answers tonight Mina."

"I can't let this go Alex. I need peace of mind."

"Do you really think tonight all the answers will be found? That things will be all worked out in one night?"

"I hope. But I can't find those answers alone Alex." she looked up at him.

"Here's all I can tell you. I love you Mina, I haven't stopped loving you. Every nasty remark you've made, every angered glance you threw. I took to heart and yes it hurt. But it never made my love for you less. Maybe I'm an idiot for hanging on so tight. Hanging on to something that obviously isn't there anymore.. But.."

"It's there Alex. Just keep hanging on for me please?"

Alex looked down at Mina who looked so lost. He wanted to rush over and wrap his arms around her, and kiss her, tell her everything will be fine, that he'll be hers for eternity. But he knew that wouldn't help things.

"I can't promise to hang on forever Mina."

Mina wiped a tear from her cheek, she turned her head so Alex wouldn't see her once again crying. She thought that talking with Alex would make her less confused, but she found she was even more confused, "Why did I break it off? I love him so much. How can I love someone but not be happy with them at the same time?"

Alex walked back to the rock and sat down with a heavy sigh, "Mina, You don't need me to figure things out. You know where I stand. You have to sit down and just try and figure out what you want. Only you can do that."

Mina frowned, "I know."

Alex got back up from the rock, "I’m going to go. There’s nothing else to say." He looked more heart broken now than he was when he arrived. Mina looked up at him, she had nothing to say, nothing that would make him stay with her.

"Thank you for coming out here Alex. I’m.."



"Don’t apologize anymore Mina, it just makes it worse." Alex sighed defeated, and walked away. He disappeared into the trees leaving Mina alone with her thoughts.



****

"It happens tonight man, are you ready?! Are you pumped?!" Nick was full of excitement.

"I can’t believe I’m going to be driving in a real race. Even though it’s amateur It feels big time. Man, I can’t thank you enough for making this happen." Kevin was pacing the living room floor.



Nick received a phone call that changed Kevin’s evening completely. They were all in front of the television enjoying a movie when the call interrupted. Quickly it was evident that the call was something big, something great. Nick was ready to bounce off walls by the time he hung up. "Kevin, how would you feel driving Nascar? Tonight."

Kevin of course was more than ecstatic. It was a dream come true. "I feel it’s about fucking time!" Kevin became just as hyper as Nick.

Everyone was happy except one, Mina, she didn’t say anything, she knew nothing would stop her brother now. She watched everyone freak out over the news and than pile out of the house, they had to get to the track. It wasn’t Daytona but it was a race track where Kevin will be competing with other drivers, with rules, with more adrenaline.

Mina stopped Kevin from walking out the door, she looked at Nick who was right behind her, "Doesn’t he need to know how to drive in a race with that kind of car? Or even with that many cars around him at high speed? Kevin this isn’t a straight way, it’s a loop. Are you sure you should be doing this. Tonight, now?" Mina was worried.

"He’ll be fine, he knows how to handle a car. Stop worrying Mina." Nick assured. Kevin smiled, "Yeah Mina, tonight is going to be great." and the two boys walked out the door.



She wasn’t so sure her brother could handle it. But all she could do was hope everyone was right. She looked over at Alex, who has ignored her since they returned to the house after their talk. He looked just as worried, but as usual didn’t speak up. "Alex talk to him." She begged in a whisper.

"No one can stop Kevin, Mina. You of all people should know that." He spoke without looking at her and then walked out the front door following everyone else.

Mina quickly walked out of the house, shutting the door behind her and getting in Howie’s car. There was no way she could drive while stressing about her brother. Nick, Brian, Kevin and Kristi all rode together in Nick’s car. While Howie, Alex and Mina followed in Howie’s car. The drive was 45 minutes. Both cars with completely opposite emotions. Nick’s car filled with excitement, non-stop talking. While Howie’s car was dreadfully silent.

When they pulled up to the race track people were already in the stands, pit crews were checking out the cars. Drivers were getting themselves ready mentally for the race. "Are we running late?" Kristi asked.

"A driver backed out of the race, that’s how Kev got a slot. We not going to have the time to prep like the rest. Your pit crew are great guys, so you’ll be fine. I’m going to be in your ear through the whole race, talking you through it. So all you have to do is drive. You ready for this?" Nick smiled with both his hands on Kevin’s shoulders.

"I’m ready, man, I’m so ready for this." Kevin was cocky.

"Come on you guys let’s go get a seat." Kristi pulled Mina with her. Alex, Howie and Brian patted Kevin on the back before following the girls.

They found a spot to sit, it was busy but it wasn’t packed like Daytona was. This was an amateur race, no big names and during the middle of the week. There was only hardcore race fans there that night. Men and Women who didn’t care if the drivers were pros or not, they just wanted to see a good car race. Mina couldn’t stop her leg from bouncing as she sat in between Kristi and Howie.

"I feel sick." Mina breathed.

"Relax, everything will be fine." Kristi smiled.

Howie took Mina’s hand, gave her a half smile. "Just have faith Mina."

It was only a few minutes later when all the cars got into position. Kevin’s car number 58 was last. The announcer got the crowd full of energy and the flag man waved the flag in the sky giving the okay for the race to start. The cars took off and lap after lap Kevin was moving his way closer to the front. His friends in the crowd screaming and rooting for him. Mina was no longer scared, "Omg, he could do this. He could win!" she was on her feet with the rest of them. Hearts beating fast, excitement taking over fear.

"Only three laps to go!" Brian yelled as the cars flew by.

Kevin passing car left and right. Taking the tight turns like he’s been doing this kind of racing all his life. At turn 3 only two laps to go. It all went wrong. Car number 22 nudged Kevin’s bumper and sent him out of control. Silence among the friends, eyes glued to the out of control car. "Omg, omg." Mina breathed over and over watching her brother spin, getting closer to the wall. As a car came up and hit him again, sending him straight to the wall. The car started on fire.

Mina screamed, "KEVIN!!!!!!!!!" All of them rushing down the bleachers in a panic. They ran to get closer but stopped, not allowed to get on the track. The race has been stopped, the caution flag has been waved, the rest of the drivers where now pitting.



All eyes were on Kevin’s car, as the fire department extinguished the fire, and emergency people rushed to get Kevin out. He wasn’t moving as they pulled him out of the car. Nick was among the people helping. While Kevin’s family watched in horror, the girls crying and yelling.

"Please, God, let him be okay. Please, don’t take him from me." Mina cried into Howie’s shoulder. Howie holding her tight as he kept his eyes on the accident.

As Kevin was put into the back of the ambulance, Nick came running over to the small family, "Nick, is he going to be okay?" Kristi hysterical.

"I don’t know. He’s alive, but unconscious. They are taking him to Florida Hospital." Nick looked just as freaked out as the rest of them.

"Let’s go." Alex spoke pulling everyone along.

Kristi went with Nick, while the other four drove with Howie. "This can’t be happening." Mina spoke breaking the silence in the car. She sat in the backseat with Alex. He pulled her over to him, embracing her tight allowing her to cry. He was doing all he could to hold back his own tears. Afraid his best friend could be taken from him tonight.

The family got to the hospital, all frantic and begging for any information. Being ignored and told to just take a seat, angered them, Brian went off, "Look Bitch, Our brother is in there dying for all we know! Let us see him or go find out what the fuck is going on!"

"Brian, stop, you’re not helping." Howie placed his hand on Brian’s shoulder.

"This is bull shit Howie!" Brian was still angry.

"I know, just go sit down, I’ll see what I can find out." Howie took over, showing calmness, all the while inside he too was freaking out.

Brian took a seat across from Mina, Mina and Kristi holding hands silently crying as they waited for news. Alex pacing back and forth feeling helpless in more ways than one. He wanted to take care of Mina, all the while he was hurting just as much. Hating that they had no answers, not knowing if Kevin was alive or dead.

Howie walked over to his friends in the Emergency Room waiting room, "He’s in surgery. That’s all she can tell us for now." Howie looked beat up as he took a seat next to Brian.

The waiting was excruciating, the longer they had to wait, the worse they imagined. "What happens if he dies?" Mina blurted out.

"Don’t say that." Kristi looked horrified.

"I don’t know what I’d do if he died. I can’t take care of the business, I can’t pay the mortgage. I’ll be alone, I’ll have no one."

"Mina! Stop. You’re being selfish. I. I. I. Shut the fuck up already, stop worrying about yourself." Brian blew up again.

Mina got up and walked away, Alex followed her, Finding her leaning against the wall away from everyone, "He didn’t mean it. He’s just worried like we all are."

"He’s right though, I am selfish." she stared at the ground.

"Maybe. But we love you anyway." He chuckled.

Making her smile, "Stop. I can’t laugh now. My brother.."

"I know Mina. I know." He pulled her into his arms yet again, she buried her head into his chest as she let her fear filled tears stream down once more. "Thank you for being here Alex." Mina spoke as she pulled away.

"Where else would I be? You guys are my family."

"Yes you are." She gave a half smile as she wiped away her tears, "And we should be with our family." She took his hand and they walked back to the waiting room.

Nick was sitting away from everyone, It was obvious he was beating himself up. His hands gripping his hair as he sat with his head hanging down. No one talking to him, no one reassuring him that it wasn’t his fault. He was left to be tortured with the thoughts that he could have just killed Kevin Richardson.



"Ms. Richardson?" A man in a white coat spoke.

The family all stood up as Mina responded, "I’m Mina Richardson, is my brother okay?" She was scared to hear the answer.

The doctor gave a smile, "Your brother is going to be just fine. He broke his left leg, we had to do surgery to reconstruct it. He now has a plate and screws holding his leg together, His right ankle was shattered and we had to reconstruct it as well.. He will end up needing therapy to learn to walk again. Kevin has a long road ahead of him. Besides his legs, He has a mild concussion. We’ll have to keep an eye on him, wake him every hour.. He will be taken to his room soon. He’ll be staying on the fourth floor, if you’d like to wait there. He’s a lucky man, he could have been hurt a lot worse."

"Thank you doctor. Thank you so much." All Mina heard was, her brother was alive and well. The doctor walked away, leaving the small family hugging each other. Thanking God for protecting their brother. Nick looked just as relieved.

"We should get to the fourth floor." Howie motioned for the small group to head for the elevator.

Mina stopped, standing in front of Nick. "No. I want you gone."

"Mina." Kristi was shocked.

Mina ignored Kristi, "None of this would have happened if it wasn’t for you. You just don’t get it, That’s my world up there lying in a hospital bed. And you almost took it from me tonight. I don’t want to see your face, ever again." she stared him down.

Nick looked her in the eye, filled with pain, "As you wish." and he walked out of the emergency room and maybe out of their lives forever.

Mina and Alex walked into the dark and empty house after spending most the evening at the hospital. Kevin never woke up after surgery. The nurses reassuring them it was normal for him to sleep so heavy after surgery. Mina was very quiet after kicking Nick out. Everyone walked around her with tip toes and it made her rethink what she’s done.

“I was wrong tonight wasn’t I?” She spoke as she dropped onto the couch in the Richardson living room.

“About?” Alex plopped next to her.

“Nick.” she sighed.

Alex didn’t respond. He rolled his eyes, not that she could see in the darkness.

Mina continued, “It wasn’t entirely his fault this happened.”

“Kevin is a grown man, he would have raced with or without Nick’s help. Nascar is supposed to be safer than street racing. Tonight just wasn’t Kev’s night. We can’t blame anyone.” Alex turned his head to look at Mina. She was staring off into the distance.

“I think I need to get some sleep. Are you going to go to the hospital with me later?” She got up from the couch.

“Yeah, I’ll be there.” Alex spoke exhausted.

The two walked to their bedrooms, Mina stopped at her door, “Alex?” she spoke softly.


Alex turned to look at her, halfway into his own bedroom. “Yeah.”

“Will you sleep with me tonight? I don’t want to be alone.”

“Mina, I need to tell you something.” Alex spoke with a heavy heart.

“What is it?” She creased her brow.

“I’m leaving...”

Mina’s eyes bulged out of her head. “What? What do you mean you’re leaving?”

“I was supposed to leave tomorrow morning. I’m moving to New York, my cousin got me a job up there. I think it’s best I try to move on with my life, and I can’t do that here.”

Mina couldn’t speak, she wanted to break down and cry, she never imagined Alex or anyone in her life to move away. Alex took a few steps closer to Mina, “I’ll stay one more day. But I have to go.... Say something, Please.”

Mina was stunned, she tried to speak and nothing came out, she finally looked into Alex’s beautiful brown eyes and could only think of one thing to say, “I’m going to miss you.”

He gave a half smile, “I’ll miss you too.” He leaned in to place a kiss on her forehead. “Good night Mina.” Alex turned and disappeared into his own room. It was a harder move than it appeared, he so badly wanted to join Mina in her room. But, he knew it would just complicate things more.
Mina made herself move from her doorway, her feet were heavier than bricks and the bed seemed like twenty miles away. She crashed onto her bed, not able to sleep. So many things were weighing her down. Kevin, Nick and now Alex. “I need to make some decisions. It’s time I do the right thing for everyone.”

****

Mina walked into the hospital room, finding her brother awake watching ESPN. “Hey Kev, you feeling okay?”

“I’m going stir-crazy in this joint. But, I feel fine they gave me pain pills just a minute ago.” He smiled big.

Mina chuckled, “Glad they’re taking care of you.”

“Hey, come here.” He held his arm out to her, she walked closer to his bed. When she was close enough Kevin took her hand. “I’m sorry for scaring you last night. I know you probably thought the worst. So I’m sorry for that.”
She tried not to show her emotions, last thing Kevin needed was a crying little sister at his bed side. “It wasn’t a fun night for any of us.”

“You are the only important person in my life. And I’m sorry I almost checked out on you. If it would have been the other way around, I would have been pissed off at you.” Kevin pulled her down to hug him. When she stood back up, she had a creased brow. Kevin smiled, “What’s on your mind baby girl?”

“This isn’t the time. It’s nothing.” she was doing her best to not be the selfish one anymore.

“This is the time. Go ahead, what’s on your mind?” Kevin looked concerned.

“I was just wondering.. I don’t know. I shouldn’t really bring it up..” she took a deep breath, “Kev, do you plan on racing again after this?”

He sighed, “I don’t know.. I can’t lie, I still love it. It’s my dream to go pro, to make enough money for us to not worry about losing the house. Or how I’m going to get you into college.”
She laughed, “College? When have we ever talked about me going to College?”

“Exactly. We haven’t. If mom or dad was around, your ass would be in College right now. It’s my responsibility to get you there, and I will.”

“Kevin, I’m old enough to take care of myself. You don’t have to worry about me, or that college stuff.”

Kevin laughed, “You grow up over night?” Mina just laughed with him, it wasn’t all that funny, but something came over both of them and neither wanted to fight the moment of happiness. Especially when it didn’t come around often.

“So where are the guys?” Kevin smiled in question.

“I put them to work. I went to the Garage early this morning and made some calls, everyone pretty much knows your situation. So I got some extensions and I think we’ll be okay. Howie, Brian and Alex are working on the two cars you guys already started.”

“Look at you, being all business.”

Mina just smiled, she knew Kevin was proud and that made her feel good. All she wanted was to take care of him for once. Pay back all the years he’s been taking care of her. Mina spent the whole afternoon with Kevin. She kept him entertained, and got whatever he needed. Once he fell asleep she decided to go home to grab a few things for her brother.

When she got to the house, she found Alex packing. “Hey.” was all either of them could say to one another. It was obvious both were hurting. “Um, is there anything I can do? I mean, do you need help packing?” Mina just wanted to wrap herself around Alex, beg him to not leave.

“No, I don’t have much. I’m almost done. But thanks.” He cleared his throat after speaking. He turned to place a few more articles of clothing into his duffle bag. “I leave tomorrow afternoon.” He turned to look at Mina after he announced his departure.

“Oh. Well, be sure to say goodbye to Kevin. He’d be upset... He’d like his chance to say goodbye.” she was trying not to cry. “I need to put some of his things together to take over to the hospital.” she walked away not allowing Alex to see her cry.

****

“Hey Nick, this is Howie, Uh, man, I just thought you should come to the hospital. Kevin doesn’t blame you, and I know you probably think that he does. So, yeah, if you want to come see him, you should.. Uh, Mina won’t be here for awhile so yeah, it’s up to you.” Howie left a message on Nick’s cell phone. Not sure of what he should say, and a little surprised at himself for caring either way.

Howie hung up his phone and then walked into Kevin’s private hospital room. “Hey man, you look like Pinocchio with all those strings attached to you.”

Kevin laughed, “Howie man, I’m glad to see you! This place is boring as hell.”

“I’m surprised you haven’t rolled yourself out of here. You got wheels man.” Howie cracked as he kicked the hospital bed wheels.

“Don’t tempt him.” Brian chuckled as he walked in the room.

Kevin’s smile was beaming, it was good to have his boys around. It kept him from thinking about how bad off he was at the moment. The three talked about cars, girls and cracked rude jokes at each others expense. The air was light and it was just what the doctor ordered.

The knock at the door changed the mood quickly. Nick stood in the doorway with a faint smile, “Hey, is it cool that I’m here?”

Kevin smiled, “Where’ve you been man? Get in here.”

Nick smiled a little more as he walked in, “How you feeling?” It was evident Nick was very uncomfortable. Howie and Brian were quiet, and feeling awkward.

“Not bad, I mean there’s excruciating pain, but I’m alive.” Kevin smiled.

“I don’t know what went wrong man, I’m sorry this happened.” Nick showed his pain.

“Nick, man, this isn’t your fault. I don’t blame you, and you shouldn’t blame yourself. It’s cool man. I wanted to race, and to be honest, I’d do it again.”

Mina walked into the room and stopped dead in her tracks, The only one to see her was Brian. He cleared his throat, “Hey Mina.” All the men turned to look at her. She was only looking at Nick.

“I, uh, should go.” Nick turned back to Kevin, “Keep your spirits up Kev, you’ll be out of here in no time. See ya later alright?”

“Later.” Kevin nodded. A little confused of the sudden need for Nick to leave. He knew he was missing something.

As Nick was walking pass Mina she turned to follow him, “Nick.” she called for him in a loud whisperer. Nick kept walking for the elevator, “Mina, I know what you’re going to say. Save it.”

She walked up to him, “No, I doubt you do.”

He turned to her, “I’m not going to fight in a hospital. I have better manors than that.”

“Outside then.” Mina raised her brow. Just as the elevator arrived. Both stepped in and quietly rode to the first floor. Both walking out of the elevator and out of the hospital in silence. A few steps away from the ER doors, Nick finally spoke, “Alright, I know you don’t want me here. But you know what, You don’t have any right to tell me where I can and can not go. I’m a grown man Mina, and once you grow up, you might realize that all of this..” He waved his hands in the air, “that you so selfishly call yours is not the real world.. And once you realize that, and become a real woman, maybe then I’ll give you my time again.”

“Excuse me?” Mina did not like his tone towards her.

He chuckled in distaste, “You really do believe the world revolves around you. Don’t you? I will admit at first I fell into your fantasy world. I found you sexy as hell, and enjoyed the chase for awhile. But then I realized you’re just a little girl. A selfish brat that has the men in her life wrapped around her little pinky. I feel sorry for those men Mina, because they won’t be able to live their own lives until you grow up. I on the other hand, can. I think your brother is a good guy, and could really make it pro, if you’d just stop holding him back. Grow up Mina, and stop being a selfish bitch all the time.” his words stung.

Mina stood there staring at the ground, she wasn’t expecting so much hostility from him, or so much truth. When she didn’t respond he exhaled loudly, “What for once you have nothing to say?”

“I.. What I was originally going to say really doesn’t matter now.” she spoke timid.

“No go ahead, get it out there. Whatever the Princess needs to say should be said.” he was obviously annoyed with her presence.


“I was just.. Sorry, that’s what I was going to say. But, you don’t need my apologizes and.. Well, I should go back to my brother.” she went to walk away, “Mina!” he called out to her. Mina looked over her shoulder waiting for whatever else he could possibly need to say, “I know there’s a good person inside that soul of yours, when you find her, you’ll find peace again.” and with that Nick turned and walked away from her.

Alex walked into the hospital room for the first time since the night of the accident. He was avoiding Kevin, it was hard enough to tell Mina he was leaving, it will be just as difficult to tell Kevin. When Alex walked into the room, he wasn’t expecting Brian and Howie to be there.

“AJ, what’s up man?” Brian welcomed him.

Kevin turned his head to look at his friend, “Where’ve you been hiding man? Does Mina have you slaving away at the Garage?”

Alex smiled, “A little. I’m sorry I haven’t been to visit.”

“You’re here now man, it’s cool.”

“Is Mina coming?” Howie joined in the small talk.

“Probably, I haven’t seen her this morning.” Alex seemed uneasy.

Kevin noticed, he gave a slight chuckle, “Man what’s wrong with you?”

“Nothin, why?” Alex looked at Kevin confused.

“You’re all squirmy.” Brian answered first.

“Um, I actually have something to tell you guys..” He had their attention, so he continued, “My cousin called me the other day. And well, he got me a good paying job up in New York. So, I’m leaving this afternoon.”

“When did you decide all this? I never knew you were thinking about moving anywhere.” Kevin seemed hurt.

“It’s just, lately I can’t seem to get my life on track. I’m grateful for your friendship, all of your friendships. And Kev, if you didn’t take me in when you did, I doubt I’d be alive today. You’ve been like a brother to me man, and I love you. I will always consider you guys my family. I just need to do this. I need to get a new start.”

“I wish you luck AJ. And you can come back home any time.” Kevin tried to be understanding. He knew it had everything to do with Mina. She made it too hard for him to heal his heart and move on.

Howie came over and gave Alex a manly hug, “We’ll miss you man.”

“Yeah, you better come back.” Brian also gave him a hug.

****

Mina went into the familiar hospital room that early afternoon. Surprised to find her brother alone, “I brought you fast food!” she waved the McDonald’s bag as she walked towards her brother.

“Oh you are a saint.” Kevin beamed as he reached for the food. “I can’t manage to swallow the stuff they call food around here.”

“I know. I tried to have dinner in the cafeteria last night and I was quite disgusted. I’ll try to bring you something every time I visit. So has any of the guys come to see you today? I know their not working.” Mina raised her brow.

“Yeah, they were all here this morning.” Kevin took a bite of his Big Mac. In mid chew he asked, “Have you talked to AJ?”

“About him leaving?” She assumed that’s what Kevin was asking.

“Yeah.. I’m trying to be supportive, but all I want to do is scream ‘Don’t Leave!’. I can’t believe he’s going.” Mina sighed.

“You’ve been different lately. I mean, in a good way. The old Mina would have made AJ feel awful for leaving.” Kevin announced before taking another bite of his sandwich.

Mina stole a french fry before speaking, “I guess after almost losing you, I realized I needed to make some changes of my own.” she shrugged.

“I wanted to talk to you about some important things that I’ve been thinking about..” Kevin started but paused.

“Alright, I’m all ears.”

“I’m starting rehab next week. And I know it’s 80% mental and 20% physical to get myself back fully recovered. And I’m ready for it. I’m going to recover and get behind the wheel again. Before you say anything, hear me out. I don’t plan on street racing anymore. I want to focus all my energy into Nascar. I found the amateur circuit to be exhilarating. And I know I can reach every goal I set myself. I want to be Pro someday.”

Mina wasn’t showing much emotion until Kevin finished talking, She gave a half smile, “That’s a lot of goals to reach, a big dream that I’m sure you can make happen. I’d be happy to help you make that dream come true. What do you need me to do?” Mina hated that he still wanted to race, but she knew it wasn’t her choice to make. And most of all she was happy to just know he wouldn’t be running from cops and thugs anymore. As hard as it was for her to not speak her mind on the subject, she knew that her old ways never worked and all that was important now was Kevin’s happiness.

“All I need is your support.” Kevin raised an eyebrow.

Mina smiled, “You have it.”


****

As Mina pulled into the driveway of her home. She saw Alex carrying bags to his car, that was parked at the curb. She took a deep breath before exiting her car. She met Alex at the trunk of his packed car, “So, today’s the day.”
Alex looked up at her after placing the last of his bags into the trunk of his car, “Yep, I was starting to think you weren’t going to be here when I left.”

“I’m here, hating every second.” She was close to tears again.

Alex moved in wrapping his arms around her, “I still love you Mina. I hope you can understand why I have to do this.” He pulled away to look at her. She had a set pout, “Yeah, I understand. Do you realize you’re leaving me defenseless to Brian?” She teased, trying to lighten the mood.

Alex chuckled, “I’m a cruel man. But I think you will quickly learn to defend yourself.” he gave a wink before shutting his trunk.

“I guess, I shouldn’t hold off any longer. I have a long drive ahead of me.” Alex so badly wanted her to beg him to stay. He placed his sunglasses on, hiding his emotions. Mina’s own tears were brimming, “I love you Alex. I will always love you. I know lately I’ve made your life hell. I hope you aren’t leaving because of me, I’d hate myself for that. I want you to be happy, and if this is what you need to do... I guess, all I mean to say is, I’ll miss you... Call us when you get there safe.” She hugged him once more, holding on so tight he felt his circulation stop.

“I’ll call you.” he pulled away and got into his car. He rolled down his window, “Take care of yourself Mina.”

“You too Alex.” she had tears running down her cheeks.

“Bye.” He choked out the last word before driving off. Mina stood in the middle of the road, watching Alex’s car get smaller as he drove away. She cried all the way back to the house, as she went to open the door to the now empty home, a car screeched to a stop in front of the house. She swung around and found Alex jumping out of his car and coming towards her. Mina couldn’t move, she stood at the top step watching Alex get closer and closer to her, she couldn’t believe he was standing in front of her. Alex stopped at the steps, “Tomorrow will you still love me? After you get over the fear of almost losing your brother, will you still love me?”

“Yes. Alex I never stopped. I was just being a silly girl. I realize that now. You and I are supposed to be together.” Mina’s heart was pouring out.

Alex walks up the steps to meet Mina at the top, he pulled her into an embrace, “I love you Mina Richardson.” and then Alex placed a kiss to Mina’s lips that felt like their very first.

As they pulled apart Mina sniffled trying to stop the tears, “So.... You’re staying?”

He smiled, “I’m not going anywhere. Not when we still have a chance.”

She smiled bright, “I wanted you to stay with all my heart.” Mina pulled Alex back to her, this time making the move, kissing him with the fire she’s held back for months. Mina knew things would never be the same, there will be good times and bad. But every moment will be with the people she loved.






THE END.