A New Beginning by AshleyNicoleFans
Summary: Ashley is just your typical 12 year old girl; young, carefree and happy. Being raised by a single-mom hasn’t always been easy for her. Her mom had to work hard for the little they had, but they had each other and the help from their family.

When her mom is called away on a business trip she is left in the care of her older cousin, Alex, who is on break from recording and touring with the Backstreet Boys. She hasn’t seen him much since he’s been on tour and she’s excited to finally spend some quality time with him. Then the unexpected occurs, and her life is changed forever. Will she be able to move on and create a new life for herself or will all the changes prove to be too much for her?




Categories: Fanfiction > Backstreet Boys Characters: AJ, Brian, Group, Other
Genres: Drama, Humor, Romance, Suspense
Warnings: Death, Sexual Assault/Rape, Sexual Content, Violence
Challenges:
Series: A New Beginning
Chapters: 86 Completed: Yes Word count: 169221 Read: 134133 Published: 09/24/08 Updated: 09/19/09

1. Prologue by AshleyNicoleFans

2. Chapter 1 by AshleyNicoleFans

3. Chapter 2 by AshleyNicoleFans

4. Chapter 3 by AshleyNicoleFans

5. Chapter 4 by AshleyNicoleFans

6. Chapter 5 by AshleyNicoleFans

7. Chapter 6 by AshleyNicoleFans

8. Chapter 7 by AshleyNicoleFans

9. Chapter 8 by AshleyNicoleFans

10. Chapter 9 by AshleyNicoleFans

11. Chapter 10 by AshleyNicoleFans

12. Chapter 11 by AshleyNicoleFans

13. Chapter 12 by AshleyNicoleFans

14. Chapter 13 by AshleyNicoleFans

15. Chapter 14 by AshleyNicoleFans

16. Chapter 15 by AshleyNicoleFans

17. Chapter 16 by AshleyNicoleFans

18. Chapter 17 by AshleyNicoleFans

19. Chapter 18 by AshleyNicoleFans

20. Chapter 19 by AshleyNicoleFans

21. Chapter 20 by AshleyNicoleFans

22. Chapter 21 by AshleyNicoleFans

23. Chapter 22 by AshleyNicoleFans

24. Chapter 23 by AshleyNicoleFans

25. Chapter 24 by AshleyNicoleFans

26. Chapter 25 by AshleyNicoleFans

27. Chapter 26 by AshleyNicoleFans

28. Chapter 27 by AshleyNicoleFans

29. Chapter 28 by AshleyNicoleFans

30. Chapter 29 by AshleyNicoleFans

31. Chapter 30 by AshleyNicoleFans

32. Chapter 31 by AshleyNicoleFans

33. Chapter 32 by AshleyNicoleFans

34. Chapter 33 by AshleyNicoleFans

35. Chapter 34 by AshleyNicoleFans

36. Chapter 35 by AshleyNicoleFans

37. Chapter 36 by AshleyNicoleFans

38. Chapter 37 by AshleyNicoleFans

39. Chapter 38 by AshleyNicoleFans

40. Chapter 39 by AshleyNicoleFans

41. Chapter 40 by AshleyNicoleFans

42. Chapter 41 by AshleyNicoleFans

43. Chapter 42 by AshleyNicoleFans

44. Chapter 43 by AshleyNicoleFans

45. Chapter 44 by AshleyNicoleFans

46. Chapter 45 by AshleyNicoleFans

47. Chapter 46 by AshleyNicoleFans

48. Chapter 47 by AshleyNicoleFans

49. Chapter 48 by AshleyNicoleFans

50. Chapter 49 by AshleyNicoleFans

51. Chapter 50 by AshleyNicoleFans

52. Chapter 51 by AshleyNicoleFans

53. Chapter 52 by AshleyNicoleFans

54. Chapter 53 by AshleyNicoleFans

55. Chapter 54 by AshleyNicoleFans

56. Chapter 55 by AshleyNicoleFans

57. Chapter 56 by AshleyNicoleFans

58. Chapter 57 by AshleyNicoleFans

59. Chapter 58 by AshleyNicoleFans

60. Chapter 59 by AshleyNicoleFans

61. Chapter 60 by AshleyNicoleFans

62. Chapter 61 by AshleyNicoleFans

63. Chapter 62 by AshleyNicoleFans

64. Chapter 63 by AshleyNicoleFans

65. Chapter 64 by AshleyNicoleFans

66. Chapter 65 by AshleyNicoleFans

67. Chapter 66 by AshleyNicoleFans

68. Chapter 67 by AshleyNicoleFans

69. Chapter 68 by AshleyNicoleFans

70. Chapter 69 by AshleyNicoleFans

71. Chapter 70 by AshleyNicoleFans

72. Chapter 71 by AshleyNicoleFans

73. Chapter 72 by AshleyNicoleFans

74. Chapter 73 by AshleyNicoleFans

75. Chapter 74 by AshleyNicoleFans

76. Chapter 75 by AshleyNicoleFans

77. Chapter 76 by AshleyNicoleFans

78. Chapter 77 by AshleyNicoleFans

79. Chapter 78 by AshleyNicoleFans

80. Chapter 79 by AshleyNicoleFans

81. Chapter 80 by AshleyNicoleFans

82. Chapter 81 by AshleyNicoleFans

83. Chapter 82 by AshleyNicoleFans

84. Chapter 83 by AshleyNicoleFans

85. Chapter 85 by AshleyNicoleFans

86. Thank You! by AshleyNicoleFans

Prologue by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Any and all constructive criticism and feedback are greatly appreciated. I hope you enjoy reading as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Ashley stood in front of the mirror with closed eyes as she took a deep breath. Tears streamed down her face. She couldn’t go on feeling like this any longer. In her mind her life was over. She had nowhere to go, no one to turn to. She just wanted all the pain to go away. She opened her eyes and stared at her tear-stained face in the mirror. ‘This is the only way.’ she thought to herself as she opened the medicine cabinet. She found the bottle of aspirin and opened it pouring its contents into her hand. She stared at herself one last time before swallowing the contents of the bottle in two big gulps. She sunk to the floor and began crying hysterically. Before she knew it the darkness was creeping in and her vision blurring. She took one last deep breath before slipping into unconsciousness.
Chapter 1 by AshleyNicoleFans
“Mom just go…I’ll be fine!” 12-year-old Ashley insisted while closing the cab door.

“But what if you need something?” her mom asked.“What if you get sick? I won’t be here!”

“Mom we already went over this! You’re only gonna be gone for a week. I’ll be fine, Alex is here…now GO you’re gonna miss your flight.”

“Yea don’t worry Aunt Angie she’ll be fine…I promise” AJ smiled.

“Now don’t forget…” Both Ashley and AJ cut her off before she could finish.

“No parties…no junk food…don’t stay up to late…and the number to the hotel is on the fridge.” They both laughed as Ashley’s mom smiled.

“See mom everything will be fine…I’m in good hands! I love you, now get going!” she reached her head in the cab and gave her one last hug and kiss goodbye wishing her luck and waved as she drove off.

“FINALLY!” Ashley yelled in excitement.

“A little freedom…Alex this is gonna be so much fun!”

AJ laughed. “Yea but we gotta follow the rules.” he joked pointing a finger at her imitating his aunt.

“Ohh shut up what she doesn’t know wont hurt her…now lets go get some ice cream!” her eyes lit up as a big smile creped on her face soon followed by AJ.

They jumped in AJ’s car and headed to the shopping center.
Chapter 2 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Thanks for all the feedback. I'm just proof reading a few more chapters now and will have more up soon.
The news pierced threw the emergency room of Florida General Hospital like a knife.

“Reports on last night’s crash of flight 311 from California to Orlando keep coming in.” The reporter stated.
“It is now said that there were only 10 survivors 6 of whom are in critical condition tonight. The pilot attempted to make an emergency landing at Orlando International Airport after loosing control of its right engine. Tower controllers say that there was no hope for a controlled landing and the pilot did everything he could to try and prevent such a fatality. There is still no information on how the engine died out but investigators are still clearing the scene and looking into the issue.”

Ashley stared at the TV in the waiting room. Although she wasn’t alone, she felt like she was in her own world…a world of pain, anger, sorrow and hatred for herself that is. She hoped someone would come give her news on her mother’s condition soon.

AJ looked over at her. He wanted so much to comfort her but he couldn’t…she wouldn’t let him.

“Look…” he finally spoke snapping her out of her trance. “I know what you’re going through is tough, but you know that I’m here to help you.” He smiled at her and placed his hand on her shoulder.

“Don’t even try and pull that with me cause it won’t work! You don’t know what its like! Your mom isn’t in there dying rite now ok?”

“Hey you’re not the only one who has lost someone.” AJ retorted. “I lost my grandma”

The idea of death just made her cry more.

“I’ve lost so much more than you ever will Alex.” As she looked over at him he couldn’t even bear to look at her because he knew she was right.

“Incase you haven’t realized I lost my dad…and you can say in a way that you lost yours too…but its not the same cause he’s gone forever and I never even got to say one word to him…and now I’m on the verge of loosing my mom too…I have no one anymore.” Ashley wiped her eyes and looked back over at him “So don’t even try to tell me you’ve lost just as much as me because you know it’s not true.”

AJ looked up to find her staring at him with a tear-streaked face. “I’m so sorry” he said as he remembered the tragic night Ashley was born.

Her father was rushing to the hospital and was drunk yet again. It was raining and he skidded straight into the highway divider and was killed instantly. They were never able to see each other.

Feeling sorry he embraced her in a tight but loving hug. “Everything will be ok…”he coaxed her as she cried silently praying he was right but knowing deep down inside that he wasn’t.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

An hour later Ashley sat still and silent in the waiting room with AJ. She had finally stopped crying when she looked up to see a doctor walking towards them.

“Hello. I am Doctor Fredrickson.” He smiled at the both of them and shook their hands taking a seat in front of them Ashley knew this wasn’t a good sign…long conversations always have bad endings.

“You must be Ashley.” He said to her as if she were three. Ashley looked up at him with pleading eyes begging him to tell her that her mom would be okay. The doctor’s smile quickly vanished.
“I’m sorry. You’re mother just passed. Her vitals just couldn’t be stabilized…we did everything that we could…” the doctor trailed off and before he could continue Ashley cut him off.
“No you didn’t because if you did my mom would still be alive so don’t give me that crap!” Ashley yelled now standing up. AJ placed a hand on her shoulder trying to calm her down.
“Get the fuck off of me!” she yelled now turning her attention to AJ. He was bewildered; she had never spoken like that before. Ashley dropped down to the floor and put her head to her knees crying as AJ tried to calm her down.

“Everything will be alright Ash…” He tried to coax her. Only this time they both knew it wouldn’t…her life had changed forever.

“Come on. Let’s get you home.” AJ told her when she finally began to calm down.
“What home?” she mumbled and leaned back on the chair closing her eyes.
“You can’t just stay here all night.” He said hoping to change her mind. She didn’t budge. She just stared at the wall tears still running down her face. She was afraid to leave. In her mind she had nothing anymore.


-Later On-

AJ looked at his watch and yawned. It was now three o’clock in the morning and he was beat. Ashley was still sitting on the floor leaning on his leg slightly for support. Seeing she was now asleep, and not wanting to wake her, he carefully stood up and carried her to his truck.

When they arrived home, a short time later, he carried her into her bedroom trying hard not to wake her. Kissing her on the forehead he retreated to his room where he quickly changed and feel rite asleep.
Chapter 3 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley shot up in bed scared and sweating. She looked around and saw she was home. She tried to shake of the bad feeling but she slowly came to the realization that everything that happened at the hospital wasn’t just a vivid dream. Her mom was really gone.

Unable to sleep she headed downstairs to the kitchen her face still stained from tears. She didn’t even notice the shadow of someone sitting at the counter.

“What are you doing up?” AJ asked. Ashley screamed startled by his voice.

“Alex you scared the crap out of me. Why are you sitting in the dark?” she took a deep breath trying to regain her composure.

“I’m guessing the same reason as you…can’t sleep.” He switched on the light.“How are you doing?”

Ashley looked away avoiding his question. She grabbed a bowl to make herself some cereal.

“You know I’m here to talk if you need anything.”

“Honestly I kind of wanna be alone rite now.” She turned facing him hoping she wasn’t hurting his feelings. She knew he was only trying to help but at this point no one could help her to feel better.

“Ashley you don’t have to go threw this alone.” He placed a hand on her shoulder trying to give her a sense of comfort.

Ashley just turned away and headed toward the T.V. room with her cereal hoping AJ wouldn’t follow.

She sat down on the couch and turned on the T.V. Glancing at the clock she noticed it was 6:00 AM. She sighed knowing she wouldn’t get much more sleep. Every time she closed her eyes she saw vivid pictures of her mother’s plane crashing. She knew this would haunt her dreams forever.

She began thinking of her mom and how much she missed her already. She didn’t even get to say goodbye. She couldn’t hold back the tears any longer. She curled up on the couch her head to her knees crying harder then she ever had before. She didn’t even notice AJ coming into the room. He sat next to her and embraced her holding her tight. She just cried for what seemed like forever as he held her wishing he could stop all the pain.


A knock on the door woke AJ up out of his light sleep. Ashley was still on the couch sleeping silently. He was glad she was getting some rest because he knew the next few days would not only be hectic but painful for her. AJ quickly got up to answer the door. It was his mother, Denise.

“Hi mom.” He hugged her tightly. He could tell that she too had been crying.“How are you holding up?”
“I’ll be fine Alex…how’s Ashley?”

Angie was her sister-in-law. Even after her divorce from AJ's father, Robert, they stayed close friends. She considered her a sister and although she was torn up inside over her death, she knew Ashley had to be taking it hard.

“She’s sleeping right now.She had a rough night.” AJ walked towards the kitchen.

“I don’t want her to have to worry about any of the details. I’ve already started making some calls today.” Denise put on a pot of coffee. She knew they would need all the strength and energy they had to get Ashley threw the next few days.

“What are we gonna do mom?” Alex was worried about his cousin.“She doesn’t want to talk to me. All she wants to do is be alone.”

“She’ll come around hun, you just have to give her time. You know how you were when grandma died. You didn’t want to be around anyone. I think Ashley was the only person you did talk to for over a month.”

“Yea but mom she’s lost so much…her dad, she was close to grandma, and now her mom. I mean I don’t know how to help her.”

“Like I said Alex, you just have to give her time. She needs to work threw it in her own way, in her own time. Just like you did.” She hugged her son knowing he wanted to help so badly but just didn’t know how.

"What's gonna happen to her mom?" he looked up at her with tear filled eyes."All she has left is us. What if they wanna take her away?"

"Don't worry about all of that Alex. Angie has a will that takes care of everything." She smiled a little reassuring her son. "We worked it all out when Ashley was born that if anything were to happen I would become Ashley's legal guardian. No one is going to take her anywhere."

AJ returned the smile glad that his mother was there to help them both threw this hard time.
Chapter 4 by AshleyNicoleFans
It had been four days since the accident. Everything seemed to go by in a blur: the wake, the funeral and the burial.

Everyone came over to AJ’s house after the burial. Ashley didn’t feel like being around more people trying to console her any longer. She retreated upstairs as soon as she arrived home.

Ashley sat on her bed opened up her journal and began to write.

‘These past few days have been hell. I’m so glad everything is over, the wake, the funeral and burial. I don’t know if I could go threw it again. I’ve tried so hard to be strong but inside I feel like I’m dead. When I saw her casket I almost broke down. It finally hit me that my mom, the woman who had raised me, who knew all my secrets, who sacrificed so much so I could have the life she didn’t was...Dead. She looked so different lying there. I tried so hard no to cry. Everyone kept telling me it was all right to cry and that I would feel better if I did. It didn’t work. I still feel empty, like I don’t belong here. When they were burying her I just wished I could jump rite in there and be back with her again. I need to be back with her. I need her to hold me and tell me everything will be all right. But she’s not here and I won’t feel complete again till I’m with her.’


She closed the journal and took a deep breath as she headed towards her bathroom. She knew what she had to do. She locked the door knowing eventually someone would come to check on her and she couldn’t risk that.

She stood in front of the mirror and closed her eyes as she took a deep breath. Tears streamed down her face. She couldn’t go on feeling like this any longer. In her mind her life was over. She had nowhere to go, no one to turn to. She just wanted all the pain to go away. She opened her eyes and stared at her tear stained face in the mirror.

‘This is the only way’ she thought to herself as she opened the medicine cabinet. She found the bottle of aspirin and opened it pouring its contents into her hand. She stared at herself one last time before swallowing the contents of the bottle in two big gulps.

She sunk to the floor and began crying hysterically. Before she knew it the darkness was creeping in and her vision blurring. She took one last deep breath before slipping into unconsciousness...


After an hour or so everyone started to head home. Brian stayed around to help AJ clean up while Kevin drove Denise home. AJ and Brian noticed that Ashley hadn’t been downstairs once since they arrived back. Not knowing where she was they were worried about her. AJ checked the rooms downstairs while Brian headed up the stairs to check in her bedroom.

"Hey Ashley..." He knocked on her door and after he got no response he opened it a crack. He noticed that Ashley wasn’t there and saw the light coming out from under the bathroom door.

“Hey Ash…it’s just me Brian.” He called out from the other side of the door. There was no response. He knocked slightly on the door.

“Ash you ok?” still there was no response. He jiggled the handle but it was locked. He knocked once more as AJ walked in.

“She’s not downstairs.” He informed Brian.

“The lights on in her bathroom but she’s not answering me.” He began to get worried.

“Ash open up.” AJ knocked on the door a little harder.He now grew worried as well.

He ran downstairs to get the key that opened the doors while Brian pounded on the door trying to get a response.

AJ finally got the door opened and gasped seeing Ashley unconscious on the floor.

“Oh my god Brian, what do we do?” AJ frantically searched for his phone to dial 911 while Brian checked Ashley.

“Ashley, wake up.” He shook her slightly with no response. “She’s still breathing.” Brian informed him.

He looked around and noticed the empty bottle of aspirin on the floor. He grabbed it and put it in his pocket knowing AJ would freak out at the sign of it.
He carefully picked up Ashley and they both rushed to the car to drive her to the emergency room.
Chapter 5 by AshleyNicoleFans
AJ paced back and forth in the Orlando General Hospital’s waiting room. Brian hadn’t told him about the pill bottle he had found. He didn’t understand how something like this could happen. All he kept thinking was what if he hadn’t checked on her. They would have never known anything was wrong. Now all he could do was pray she would be ok.

Denise and Kevin joined the two at the hospital. They felt as if they were waiting forever. Finally a doctor approached them.

At the same time Brian sat secluded from the rest. He pulled the pill bottle out of his pocket. Staring at it he thought to him self ‘Why would she want to hurt herself?’ this thought was racking his mind when he was snapped out of his thoughts by the doctor’s voice.

“Are the parent’s of Ashley McLean here?” he looked around the waiting room.

AJ and Denise jumped out of their seats unaware of what his news would be.

“You’re her parents?” he asked in confusion.

“I’m her legal guardian and this is my son. Her mother just passed away on Thursday.” Denise explained to the doctor.

“Alright. Well that might help to answer some of my questions.” He looked down at his clipboard. “Well we have her vitals stabilized but she’s still a little out of it.”

“What was wrong with her?” Denise questioned.

“It was an acute overdose. We pumped 150 mg/kg of aspirin out of her stomach.”

“An overdose?” AJ was shocked.

“It was an accident though right?” Denise said on the verge of tears.

“With the amount taken most likely not. 150 Mg/kg in her body size is equivalent to about 20 or more pills.”

Denise broke into tears as AJ wrapped his arms around her. They couldn’t believe that this was happening.

“Can we see her?” Denise asked.

The doctor nodded and led them to her room.

“Like I said before she’s still out of it and she might not remember everything so don’t ask her too much. She’ll have to stay here a couple of days and I’m suggesting she see the hospital counselor as well.”

“Okay, thank you very much doctor.” Denise said walking into the room.
AJ just lingered by the doorway, nervous to go inside.

Denise knew AJ was scared and that she had to be strong for the both of them. Denise motioned AJ to join her next to Ashley, but AJ couldn’t move.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Meanwhile Brian was distraught over all that had happened in the previous hours. He needed to talk to someone. He got up and walked over to Kevin.

“Hey man. Come get something to drink with me.”

“Is that all you can think of at a time like this?” Kevin joked with him immediately regretting it when he saw the look in Brian’s eyes. “What’s wrong?”

Brian slumped down into the chair across from Kevin.
“She tried to kill herself.” Was all he could manage to get out. Kevin was taken back.

“What?” he asked puzzled. “Who?”

“Ashley…she tried to kill herself.” He showed Kevin the bottle of aspirin.

“Are you sure…I can’t believe this.”

“The doctor’s have to know…what’s gonna happen to her?” Brian was worried.

“I don’t know man…you guys are just lucky you found her in time.” They both just stared off not knowing what to think or do, or how AJ was going to handle this.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


AJ finally got the courage to walk over to Ashley’s bed. He sat on the chair next to Denise and just stared at Ashley who seemed lifeless. She was so pale and so cold.

Ashley felt the presence of someone in the room and managed to open her eyes.

“Alex…Aunt Denise?” she questioned. “What happened? Where am I?”

AJ hesitated to answer. “You’re in the hospital.” Seeing the puzzled look on Ashley’s face he continued.
“Me and Brian found you passed out in the bathroom…the doctor said” he got choked up trying to fight back tears.

“We’ll talk about that more later.” Denise intervened not wanting to upset Ashley. “You need your rest.” She kissed her forehead. “I'll go let the boys know you’re ok.”

Ashley’s face turned stone cold now remembering what she had attempted to do and she broke into tears.

“I’m so sorry” she managed to choke out threw the tears. AJ grabbed her hand.

“No. I’m sorry Ashley, I was supposed to take care of you and I didn’t.” he couldn’t hold the tears in anymore.

“Alex its not you’re fault I just have nothing anymore…I want to be with my mom.”

AJ just held her hand, as she cried not knowing how to help her.

The doctor knocked on the door.

“Visiting hours are over now…you can come back in the morning.” He informed AJ.

“No…I don’t want to stay here by myself.” Ashley squeezed his hand tighter not wanting him to leave her. “Please, I’m scared.”

“Is there any way I can stay with her?” he asked the doctor.

“Well usually we only allow a family member to stay over night in the pediatric wing. We can’t move her down there tonight because she needs someone looking over her constantly to make sure her vitals remain stabilized.” The doctor informed them.

Ashley looked at him with pleading eyes and AJ sighed letting go of her hand.

"Let me talk to him ok. I won't leave you here alone." AJ got up and followed the doctor out of the room.

"Is there any way you can make an exception?" AJ asked. "She's only 12 and she's never had to stay at the hospital. She just lost her mom, I don't think she can handle this alone."

The doctor sighed. "I'll make an exception, but only for tonight. If she needs to stay longer she'll have to stay on her own."

AJ thanked the doctor and headed back into the room.

"Can you stay?" she asked timidly.

"Yea. Why don't you try and get some sleep. I'm gonna go let my mom know that I'm staying ok?"

"No, don't leave me in here alone." she grabbed his hand. "Alex, I'm really scared."

He sat down still holding her hand.
"I know kiddo, but everything will be fine." he kissed her hand. "Now get some rest, ok?"

She nodded and closed her eyes trying to fight back tears.

'I really messed up this time.' she thought to herself as she drifted off to sleep.
Chapter 6 by AshleyNicoleFans
A bright light shining in her eyes woke Ashley up the next morning. She looked around realizing where she was. A nurse smiled at her as she walked away from the window and towards the machines connected to Ashley.

"Good morning sweet heart. How are you feeling?" she asked while she checked her IV.

"Where's Alex?" Ashley asked looking around the room.

"A nurse took him to get some coffee. Poor guy didn't sleep a wink last night." she filled some papers out and placed her chart back in the holder.

"Can I go home today?" she asked timidly.

"I'm not sure sweetie, that's up to the doctor. But your vitals have been stable all night, which is good. A doctor will be in soon to talk to you." she smiled at her as she left.

No more then a few minutes later AJ came walking back in.

"Hey kiddo, you're up." he smiled kissing her head. "How you feeling?"

"Okay I guess. I wanna go home though." she frowned trying to fight back tears.

"Well I know they wanted you to talk to the hospital counselor today. I'm sure you can go home after that. But if they want you to stay I'll get you moved to the pediatric ward so I can stay with you okay?"

She just nodded and wiped the tears out of her eyes as someone knocked on the door.

"Good morning, Miss McLean." a chipper voice came from the blonde doctor in the doorway. She was a different doctor from the night before.

"I'm Dr. Davis. How are you feeling this morning?" she frowned reading over her chart.

"I'm okay." she smiled a little."Can I go home today?"

"We'll were going to have out counselor come speak to you. She's going to assess weather or not you're a suicide risk."

The word suicide made AJ cringe. He didn't want to face the reality of what Ashley had tried to do and neither did she.

"We'll take it from there." the doctor smiled at her a little.

"I didn't mean to, I'm sorry." Ashley mumbled tears rolling down her cheeks. She was just now realizing the severity of her actions and she regretted it.

"It's ok sweetie." The doctor tried to comfort her. "The counselor is a very nice woman. Just talk to her and we'll work everything out. Okay?"

Ashley nodded and wiped her eyes.

"The counselor will be coming in soon. You can come back around noon.” she informed AJ before leaving the room.

"Will you be okay here by yourself for a little?" AJ asked, Ashley again just nodded."Kiddo, everything will be okay I promise."

He kissed the top of her head. She smiled at him weakly.

"I'll go pick up my mom and we'll come back here for noon, sound good?" he squeezed her hand for some reassurance.

"Alex." she looked up at him her eyes filled with tears once more. "I'm really sorry about all of this. I just don't know what to do anymore. I have no one."

"Kiddo, that's not true. You have me and you have my mom, and Kevin and Brian and the rest of the guys. You know they all love you. I promise you that we'll help you get threw this ok sweetie?" he wiped the tears that were falling from her eyes as she nodded and smiled a reassuring smile.

He hugged her tightly before heading from the room. No more then five minutes after AJ's departure there was a knock on the door. Ashley opened her eyes to see an older woman smiling at her.

"Hi, Ashley." she said as she entered the room."I'm Dr. Kelley, the counselor." she stuck out her hand and Ashley shook it giving her a weak smile. "How are you doing today, sweet heart?" she took a seat in the chair by the bed.

"Okay." she said timidly.

"Well, I'm sure you know what I'm here to talk about, but I want to reassure you that we don't have to talk about anything you don't want to."

"Okay."

"So why don't you tell me a little about yourself. What grade are you in, where do you go to school, what do you like to do, things like that."

"Umm." Ashley thought for a second."Well I go to Celebration Middle school and I'm going into 7th grade this year. I like to dance and sing and act and play basketball." she smiled.

"Do you have any brothers or sisters?” Ashley shook her head no.

"I have Alex, but he's my cousin."

"Are the two of you close?"

Ashley smiled and nodded yes. "He's my best friend."

"That's great. What about school, do you like it? Do you have a lot of friends?"

Ashley frowned a little. "I like school sometimes."

She didn't answer the second question and the doctor jotted down some notes on her clipboard.

"And friends, what about them?" the doctor asked again. She could see it wasn't one Ashley really wanted to answer but went at it again.

"Umm I have a few friends."she trailed off a little then spoke back up. "Most people want to be my friend because of Alex."

"Why is that?" the doctor hadn't been informed of who she was.

"He's a Backstreet Boy." she smiled proudly at her cousin’s accomplishment.

"Oh wow. That must be exciting."

"Yea. But it's bad sometimes." she smiled half heartedly.

"Why is it bad?"

"Cuz' Alex is gone a lot more now. I miss him."

"Do you talk to him about that?" Ashley shook her head no.

"Why not?"

"I don't want to make him sad. I know that he's happy and I'm happy for him. I just wish we could spend more time together like we used to."

"I think this is something that you should talk to Alex about. From what you've told me you two seem to have a close relationship I'm sure he'd understand. It's not good to keep your emotions bottled up." Ashley nodded in agreement.

"So would you say you are generally a happy person?" the doctor asked.

Ashley thought for a second. "Yes."

"Can we talk a little about this past week? I know it's a tough subject but I think talking will help you a little. Why don't you tell me what's been going on."

"Umm well Alex was home for a little. My mom went on a business trip to California and I was happy cuz' I was gonna get to stay home with Alex all week. He's been on tour so I haven't seen him that much. Usually when my mom goes away I have to stay at Aunt Denise’s.”

"So what did you and Alex do the whole week?" Dr. Kelley didn't want to jump right into the big issue; she wanted to give Ashley time to warm up to it.

"We had a lot of fun." Ashley smiled form ear to ear for the first time since the accident. "He took me to Disney and we stayed up late playing games and we went swimming. It was the best week ever." her smiled turned to a frown and she began to choke back tears.

"Then what happened?" she asked.

"The day she was supposed to come home we were getting ready to go to the airport and the hospital called." She wiped the tears that began to fall down her cheeks. "I never got to say goodbye to her." she quickly wiped the tears away.

"It's okay to cry Ashley. You've been through something incredibly hard." the doctor reassured her.

"I don't know what to do, I don't have anyone anymore." she cried harder then she had in a while.

"Why do you feel that way? I know you have family who cares very much for you."

"But they’re not my mom. It was always me and her. All we had was each other, except for my aunt Denise and Alex. Things were just starting to get better." She mumbled.

"You still have them. I'm sure they care about you very much."

"It's not the same!" Ashley yelled, not meaning for it to come out so loud.

"Ok I understand. Why don’t we talk a little about what happened last night?" the doctor knew she was breaking through to her.

Ashley froze up. She had no explanation or real reasoning as to why she did what she did. The truth is she wasn't thinking. She hadn't thought about the real consequences of her actions. Dr. Kelley sensed her apprehension and decided to take a step back.

“Ok we’ll take it slower. What do you mean by things were just starting to get better?” the doctor questioned.

Ashley took a deep breath letting it out slowly.

“Last year was bad. We lived in a bad house and my mom lost her job. We couldn’t pay for our house anymore. But Alex said we could live at his house while he was away. I got to go to a better school and my mom got a new job and she was saving up so we could buy a house of our own. Everything was getting better.”

"How's about we talk about how you were feeling yesterday."

"Sad...angry...alone." Ashley trailed off wiping away tears once more.

“I can understand why you would feel that way.” She reassured her.

“Everyone kept telling me it would be okay, but they don’t know that. No one knows what I’m going threw and I hate that they tell me they understand.”

Dr. Kelley was glad that Ashley was being open with her. She decided to try her again.

“So what was going threw your mind last night?”

“I wish I knew.” Ashley sighed wiping the tears from her eyes. “I didn’t mean to do it.”

“But you did,” The doctor reminded her. “And although you may not fully realize why you did there has to be a reason so let’s try to figure it out together.”

They spoke for a little longer trying to work out what was going threw Ashley’s head. Dr. Kelley felt that they had made some great progress in a short period of time. She was glad that Ashley was open and willing to accept help.

She suggested that they begin meeting at least once a week and made Ashley promise that she wouldn’t bottle up her emotions anymore. For Ashley that was easier said then done, but she agreed to try. Dr. Kelley agreed to let her go home later that day and Ashley was glad about that.
Chapter 7 by AshleyNicoleFans
“Hey mom.” AJ smiled as his mother climbed into his truck.

Denise smiled at him as she buckled her seatbelt.
“Good morning, sweetie. How’s Ashley doing today?”

“She just feels scared and alone and she doesn’t know how to deal with that. She’s with the counselor right now. I hope that helps her a little.” He frowned not knowing what to do to make things better.

“We’ll all figure this out together. The most important thing right now is that she knows we’re here for her.” She placed her hand on his arm for reassurance. “Ashley is stronger then she thinks. She’ll work threw this.”

They arrived back at the hospital about 20 minutes later. When they got inside they headed toward her room. Dr. Kelley was leaving as they approached. She smiled warmly at both of them.

“You must be Alex and Denise.” She shook each of their hands.“I’m Dr. Kelley, the hospital counselor.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Denise smiled back at her. “How is she doing?”

“We had a very good chat and she was very open with me which is a good sign. I believe she’s just very confused. She’s young and dealing with something this tragic at such a young age can often lead to rash decisions. She regrets what she did and knows it wasn’t the right way to approach the situation. I would like to meet with her weekly though because she does need some counseling to learn how to properly grieve.”

“Can she go home?” AJ asked hopefully.

“Yes, I am allowing her to go home. I don’t believe she will try to hurt herself any more. However, I do want her to be watched over. Make sure she knows that you are there for her if she wants to talk. All she needs is some reassurance that she isn’t alone.”

“We’ll be sure to do just that.” Denise reassured the doctor.

“Okay well it was a pleasure meeting both of you, Ashley had such wonderful things to say about you two. I’m sorry but I must get going I have an appointment soon. Ashley has my card, please call my office to set up an appointment sometime within the next week.”

“I’ll make sure to.” Denise smiled as the doctor walked off.

She knocked on the door and peeked her head in. Ashley was sitting up in her bed watching TV.

“Aunt Denise!” Ashley smiled as she walked in AJ in toe.

“Hey kiddo.” He said as he hugged her and took a seat. “When can you get out of here?”

“As soon as the nurse comes in and gets all these wires unhooked.” She smiled at both of them a little. “I’m really sorry guys. I know I really scared you both.”

Denise hugged her and kissed her forehead. “It’s ok sweetie. I know you’re going threw a rough time but just remember we love you and we want you here with us.”

“Yeah Ash. If you’re not here who am I gonna bug?” AJ teased her causing her to smile a little. “How’s about we go get some McDonalds when we get out of here. I know you have to be starving.”

Her eyes grew wide in anticipation. “Yum. Double cheeseburger!” she laughed a little.

Denise smiled at the two. She was glad to see Ashley smiling. Although she knew the next few months would be tough, deep down she knew everything would be ok.



A short while later Ashley was released from the hospital and as promised they headed straight to McDonalds. They decided to take the food home and eat in peace.

When they arrived back at the house Ashley changed her clothes quickly and then joined Denise and AJ in the kitchen to eat.

“Do you want to rent some movies tonight?” AJ asked as they dug into their food.

“Sure.” Ashley mumbled through a mouthful of food.

“Don’t talk with your mouthful.”

“Sorry.” They both mumbled and swallowed their food.

“When are you going back on tour?” Ashley asked before taking another bite.

“In September.”

The tour. Denise hadn’t even thought about it. She was supposed to join the boys on tour as manager. How could she do that with Ashley in school? She would have to think this threw.

“Mom ya there?” AJ laughed waving his hand in front of Denise’s face pulling her from her thoughts.

“Oh sorry. It’s just been a long couple of days. Did you say something sweetie?”

“I was asking if you wanted me to put some coffee on.” He asked.

“Sure that would be great.”

Ashley took her last bite of food and yawned. “I think I’m gonna take a nap. I’m really tired.” She threw out her garbage and hugged them both.

“Ok sweetie. Let us know if you need anything.” Denise called to her as she headed upstairs to her bedroom. Once she was out of earshot Denise turned to AJ.

“I completely forgot about the tour. Ashley starts school in 2 weeks. How are we going to make this work?”

“She could just come with us.” He said as if there was no problem.

“She has to go to school Alex.”

“I know that." he laughed."I mean she could do home school and come with us.”

“How would that work? We can’t bring along an extra person to tutor her.”

“Mom, things are different then they were when we had to do it. Everything is on the computer now. Aunt Angie had already looked into it because Ashley was bugging her to come on tour with us anyway. She has all the paperwork around here somewhere.”

“I’m sure Ashley would love that, but she’s in a really good school. I don’t want her to fall behind.” Denise frowned.

“It’s the same stuff she would learn in school. There are online teachers that she can talk to if she has any problems and she still has to do all the same work she would do if she were at school. You know Aunt Angie wouldn’t let her do it if it would make her fall behind.” AJ reassured her.

“That’s true. Why don’t you find me all the paperwork and I’ll look it over. If it seems good I’ll talk with Ashley about it and then set it up.”

"Can do." AJ laughed as he headed upstairs to look for it.
Chapter 8 by AshleyNicoleFans
The sun peaked threw the curtains the next morning. Ashley rubbed her eyes and glanced over at the clock.
It was already 11 AM. Had she really slept threw the whole night? She hadn’t realized how tired she was when they returned from the hospital yesterday.

She sat up in bed stretching and letting out a small yawn. She could smell the bacon coming from the kitchen so she knew AJ was awake. She headed down the stairs.

“Oh hey stranger, you’re awake.” AJ smiled at her as he sat down with his food. “Want some eggs and bacon?”

“No, I’ll just have some cereal.” She got out a bowl and some corn pops making herself a bowl of cereal and joining AJ. “Why didn’t you wake me up from my nap? We were supposed to watch movies.”

“I figured you were really tired. It’s been a crazy few days, you needed a good nights sleep.” He took a big bite of food and continued. “Mom is coming over in a little, she has some things she wants to talk to you about.”

“Like what?” she asked curiously.

“It’s a surprise, but you’ll like it.” He grinned at her. “When you’re done eating get dressed. I have a meeting in about 30 minutes but you and mom are gonna meet me after and we’re gonna go to dinner to talk about the big surprise…sound good?”

“Yup.” She placed her bowl in the sink. “I’m gonna go take a shower this way I’m ready when aunt Denise gets here. I guess I’ll see you later then.”



Ashley stepped out of the shower about 30 minutes later. She wrapped her towel tightly around her and shook out her wet hair. She walked over to her closet to lay out her clothes and then returned to the bathroom to blow dry her hair. After she was ready she headed downstairs. She heard two voices coming from the living room but only recognized one.

“Hi Aunt Denise.” She peeked her head in seeing Denise sitting across from a man.

“Hi Ashley. Good, you’re ready. We have to be leaving soon.” Denise smiled at her. “Come here, I want to introduce you to someone.”

Ashley walked over and stood next to her aunt’s chair smiling timidly at the stranger.

“Ashley, this is a good friend of mine, Tony. Tony, this is my niece Ashley.” Tony stood up to greet her and shook her hand.

“Hi Ashley, I’ve heard so much about you. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

“Nice to meet you too.” Ashley smiled more warmly now. ‘Is this my surprise? I sure hope not.’ She thought to herself as she took a seat in an open chair.”

“How are you doing today?” Denise asked.
“Better.” Ashley replied.

“Good. I’m glad.” Denise glanced over at the clock. “Ok we have to meet Alex soon, we should get going.” She smiled as they all got up and headed towards Tony’s car.

“Where are we eating?” she asked as they pulled out of the driveway.

“Romanelli’s.” Denise informed her as the grin grew on her face.

“YES! I love that place!” Ashley beamed.

“We know.” Denise laughed.



A short while later they pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant. AJ was already waiting outside finishing off a cigarette.

“Hey guys. Our table’s ready.” He threw down the butt of his cigarette and put it out with his foot then led them inside.

A waitress greeted them and led them to a secluded table near the back of the restaurant. They looked over the menu and ordered their food.

“So is coming here for dinner my surprise?” Ashley asked.

“Nope.” AJ grinned. “It’s even better then this.”

“Tell me what it is PLEASE!” she begged them.

“Are you gonna keep bugging like that till we do?” he laughed.

“If that’s what it takes.” She grinned evilly.

“Mom just tell her, for the sake of my sanity.” AJ laughed.

Denise reached in her purse and pulled out a set of papers.

“What’s that?” Ashley asked.

“Read it.” Denise smiled as she handed her the papers.

“Time4Learning Home School Program.” She read out loud. “What’s this?”

“It’s a program that lets you do your school work from home.” Denise said.

“Or on a tour bus.” AJ laughed.

“A tour bus?” Ashley asked confused.

AJ grinned back at her.

“Wait…I get to go on tour with you guys?” she almost yelled.

“Well I have to manage the boys, and since I can’t be in two places at once this was the best option.” Denise chimed in.

“This is awesome!” Ashley grinned from ear to ear. AJ was happy to see her smile.

“Of course you will have to keep up with all your school work. I don’t want you falling behind.” Denise warned her.

“I promise I’ll do good. Thank you so much guys. This is the best surprise ever.”

Ashley couldn’t wipe the smile off her face. Things were starting to look up for her and she couldn’t be happier.
Chapter 9 by AshleyNicoleFans
Chapter 9

The tour had been going on for a few weeks and although Ashley had fun going to the shows every night she was beginning to get bored. There was no one her age except the few fans who were around at the sound checks.

“Hey kiddo.” AJ shoved her playfully before sitting across from her. “How’s your homework coming along?”

“Almost done for the week.” She sighed closing her laptop.

“This week?” AJ laughed. “It’s only Tuesday.”

“I like to get it out of the way fast.”

“So are you having fun?”

“Yea. The show’s great but I get bored sometimes. Aunt Denise won’t let me do anything.”

“Well I know you remember Aaron, but I don’t think you met his sister Angel. They’re gonna be here for a few days next week.” He informed her.

“Really?” she smiled. “I haven’t seen Aaron in a long time.”

“So at least you’ll have someone your age to hang with for a while.”




It was a few days later and Ashley was just finishing up her homework. She closed her laptop and went back out into the backstage area. She was looking around for he aunt when someone backed into her.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I wasn’t paying attention.” Aaron said smiling a little then resuming to look around.

“Looking for something?” Ashley asked.

“Yea, I left my game boy somewhere around here and I can’t find it now.” He searched around the table until a tall brunette approached them.

“Looking for this air head?” Angel laughed handing him his game boy. “You left it in the van.”

“Thanks!” he turned it on and walked away to resume his game.

“Don’t mind my brother. He’d loose his head if it wasn’t attached.” She teased. “You’re AJ’s cousin right?”

“Yup, Ashley.” She smiled at her.

“I’m Angel. Your aunt said I could find you back here.” She sat down on one of the couches and Ashley joined her.

“How long are you gonna be here for?” Ashley asked.

“Only a few days. Aaron has a little break from his tour. We don’t really get to see Nick much so my mom said we could come visit.”

“That’s cool. I wish you guys were staying longer. It gets so boring here sometimes.”

“I could imagine. I get bored on Aaron’s tour too sometimes.” Angel looked down at her watch. “My mom said there’s a mall around here. She said she’d take me. Do you wanna come with us?”

“I’d have to ask my aunt. She doesn’t like me going anywhere without her.”

“My mom will talk to her don’t worry. It’ll be fun and we can get out of here until the boys show.”


Denise agreed to let Ashley go to the mall with Angel and Jane. She even gave her some money to spend. When they arrived Jane let them go off on their own and the girls had fun shopping and flirting with cute boys.

Ashley loved having another girl her age there to hang out with. The truth is she didn’t have many friends back at home. Her and Angel got along great and had bonded fast in the short time that she had been there. She was happy that she finally had someone to talk to who understood what she was going threw.

For the next few days Ashley and Angel had fun hanging out and getting to know each other. Ashley wished that she could stay longer but Aaron's break was over soon and they still had to go home to see the rest of the family before going back out on the road.

The girls promised to keep each other company on the boring bus trips threw the Internet and Angel made her promise that she’d come visit their house in California once the tour was over. She was sad to see her go but happy that she had finally made a good friend that she could trust.
Chapter 10 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
I know some of these chapters are pretty short but they get longer promise. Keep leaving feedback and keep reading! More updates to come soon.
Ashley sat around the green room bored yet again. There was an after show party following the show that night but as always Ashley wasn’t allowed to go. There was a knock on the door and Ashley looked up to see Brian poking his head threw the door.

“What are you doing in here all alone?” he asked taking a seat across from her.

“Nothing. Just writing.” She smiled shyly closing the notebook.

“Can I see?”

Ashley handed him the notebook and he quietly flipped threw the pages reading over the dozens of poems written down.

“These are really good. When did you start writing them?”

“When I got out of the hospital. My counselor told me to write how I feel since I can’t go see her while I’m on tour.”

“You know these could make some really good songs.”

“Really?” she asked surprised. She never thought her feelings could be turned into something more.

“Yea.” He smiled handing the book back to her. “All you need is a little melody and it all comes together.”

He reached for his guitar and started strumming some chords. She listened for a minute then began humming along. She looked over the words and began piecing it together. Brian smiled as he heard her sing. She had a really sweet and pure quality to her voice that he hadn’t heard before.

“I can’t pull myself away from you. They’re telling me to forget you I got to make it threw because I can’t pull myself away from you. No, I can’t pull myself away from you.”

“See easy as cake.” Brian laughed placing down the guitar.

“I wish I could play guitar like you. It would be so cool to make songs.”

“We have a whole tour. I could teach you.” He laughed.

“Really?” her eyes lit up. “That would be awesome.”

“All you need is a few chords and you’ll be good to go. You’ll be writing music in no time.”

“Did I tell you you’re my favorite?” she laughed.

“We won’t tell AJ.” He teased. “Ok well sound checks soon. I gotta go get ready. We’ll start with the guitar in a few days. Sound good?”

“Awesome. I can’t wait.” She smiled as he headed out the door.





Ashley had just finished up her homework for the day and was getting ready to meet Brian in the greenroom to work on the guitar again. It had been three weeks since he had starting teaching her and she was picking it up fast. When she walked into the room Brian and AJ were talking on one of the couches.

“Hey guys.” Ashley said as she sat down on the couch next to AJ.

“Hey. I was just telling AJ how good you were doing on the guitar.” Brian smiled.

“Yea. How come you never told me you wanted to learn how to play?” he asked.

“It just kinda came up and Brian offered to help me. You can’t say no to that.” She laughed.

“Well we have a surprise for you.” Brian grinned slyly.

“Really?” she smiled back excited. “What is it?”

“Close your eye.” AJ replied.

Ashley closed her eyes and Brian reached behind one of the couches and placed something on the table in front of her.

“Okay, open.” Brian said.

Ashley opened her eyes and looked down at the guitar case on the table.

“Is this for me?” Ashley asked a grin beginning to form.

“We thought that you would be able to practice more if you had a guitar of your own.”

“Open it up.” AJ grinned knowing she would love it.

Ashley unlocked the case and opened it up gasping at the guitar in front of her. It was a pink 6 string acoustic guitar. Ashley couldn’t keep the smile off her face.

“You like it?” AJ asked chuckling.

Ashley couldn’t even respond with words she just nodded and continued staring at it.

“This is amazing!” she finally spoke up. She jumped up and hugged them both. “This is the best present ever.”

She pulled the guitar out of the case carefully and stared at it some more.

“Well show me what you got.” AJ laughed. “We paid good money for that so start putting it to use.”

Ashley took in a deep breath and began playing what Brian had taught her.


“That was awesome.” AJ smiled as she finished. “You learned all that in 3 weeks?” he questioned.

“I told you she was a quick learner.” Brian chimed in. “Now get out of here so we can get to work.” Brian shoved him towards the door.

“So what do you wanna work on today?” Brian asked taking a seat once again.

“I wanna learn a song.” She smiled.

“Like a whole song?” he laughed a little. “That might take a while.”

“I can do it. Teach me a Backstreet song.”

“Ok. How’s about ‘I Want It That Way’. It has some good guitar in it that you’d like.”

“Sounds good to me. Let’s go I’m ready.” She laughed.


They worked for the next hour and Ashley had a good majority of the song down. Brian was really impressed at how fast she was learning.

“See now if you combine all those parts I think you have pretty much the whole song down.” Brian smiled placing his guitar down.

“Awesome. You’re a really good teacher.” She said carefully putting the guitar back in the case.

“Well you pick it up fast so it’s easy.” He smiled. “You know a lot now and you have a good ear. Why don’t you try making your own melody for next week to one of your poems.”

“You really think I could do that?”

“Yea you can do it. You just gotta try and practice.”





For the next week Ashley worked everyday to come up with the perfect melody. At first she wasn’t sure what poem she wanted to use but once she got the melody down she found herself writing a brand new one. When she got most of it down she read over the lyrics and smiled to herself. She was really proud of the accomplishment of writing her first song and she couldn’t wait for Brian to hear it.

Brian came into the room and Ashley was already set up waiting for him.

“Someone’s an eager beaver today.” He teased.

“I wrote a song…well not a whole song but I wrote it myself.”

“That’s awesome. Can I hear it?” he sat across from her.

She nodded and prepared her guitar. She started strumming the melody and concentrated on the music then began singing.


“There's a girl walkin' in these shoes and she knows that everything she's got is all she's got to lose. There's a dream right behind these eyes and she finds a reason to be strong with every tear she dries.

Tryin' hard to fight the way things are so she leaves her world behind. With the sounds of doubts turned up so loud she turns the music up inside.

And this girl's seen a lot of pain but this girl's gonna smile again. She knows that a flower grows every time it rains. And this girl's got a lot of dreams she knows that tomorrow's not what it seems she might not solve a mystery tonight. But this girl's gonna be alright.”

She looked up from the guitar and saw Brian smiling at her. She was nervous as to what he would think.

“That’s all I have for now.” She said timidly.

“That was awesome. You wrote that?”

Ashley just nodded smiling slightly.

“You have a really good voice. You never wanted to pursue singing?”

“I did, but we couldn’t afford it and my mom never had time to take me since she was working.” She frowned a little. She had tried to avoid talking about he mom as much as possible.

“Well I think you have a lot of potential. You should try and do some stuff when you get home. Denise would help you out.” He reassured her.

“I’d love that.” She smiled.

“And keep working on that song. It’s really good. You’re better then me on the guitar now.” He chuckled.

“I wish.” She laughed. “But you really liked it?”

“Yea. It was really good.” He gave her a hug. “We have a rehearsal in a few minutes so I have to cut this short. We’re adding a song to the show so it’ll be new tonight.”

“Can’t wait!” she smiled putting her guitar away.

Brian was just about to walk out the door when she stopped him and gave him a big hug.

“Thanks.” She smiled at him.

“For what?” he smiled back.

“Taking the time to help me with this. It means a lot to me.”

“Any time. You know I always have time for you.” He smiled as he left the room.

Ashley smiled to herself and sat back down to continue working on her song. She was glad that things were looking up for her.
End Notes:
*First song was something written by me.
**Second song was 'This Girl' by Nikki Flores.
Chapter 11 by AshleyNicoleFans
The tour had finally ended and Denise and Ashley had just returned home. Ashley couldn’t believe it was already December. She was excited for the upcoming holiday season but at the same time she knew it was her first Christmas without her mom.

Ashley was sitting in her room talking to Angel on the phone when Denise knocked on her door.

“Can I come in sweetie?” she asked poking her head threw the door.

“Angel I’ll call you back later.” She said as she hung up the phone and placed it back on the stand. “Sure.” She smiled at Denise.

Denise sat down on the bed.

“Are you happy to be back home?” she asked picking up the magazine Ashley had been looking threw.

“Yea. It feels good to sleep in my own bed for a change.” She smiled. “When’s Alex coming back home?”

AJ had traveled to Los Angeles after the tour finished to meet with some of his managers and producers to talk about a solo project that he was working on.

“That’s what I came in here to talk to you about.” Denise put the magazine back down. “Alex just told me that he’s thinking about buying a house out there in California and wanted to know if we would spend Christmas out there.”

“In California?” she thought about it for a second. Maybe it would be good for her to not spend Christmas in Florida. It would remind her less of her mom.

“It sounds like a cool idea. Would we have to fly?”

Ever since the accident Ashley dreaded flying. She wasn’t sure if she could handle the 5-hour flight to California.

“I know that you’re nervous about flying, but I promise it won’t be that bad” Denise reassured her.

“It sounds cool. I could see Angel and I’ve always wanted to go to California.”

“Good. I’ll have Alex make the arrangements. “ She smiled as she headed out the door.




It was the week before Christmas and Ashley and Denise had safely arrived in California. Ashley couldn’t wait until the following week. Angel was having a Christmas party and the two were going shopping for the perfect outfits.

Ashley heard her phone ringing as she searched her bed for it tossing clothes all about.

“Gotcha!” she said laughing as she picked it up. “Hello?”

“Hey girl. It’s Angel. We’re gonna be leaving in 10
minutes. Meet me in front of Hollywood and Highland shopping center.”

“Sounds good. See you there.” She said as she hung up and headed downstairs. “Angel said their leaving in a few minutes.” She informed Denise and AJ.

“I’ll bring you over there. I have to go to a few store anyway.” AJ said. “Where are you guys going?”

“Hollywood and Highland.” She informed him.

“Ok let’s get going.” He grabbed his car keys and they headed for his car. When they got there Ashley saw Angel waiting by the front entrance.

“Do you need any money?” he asked before she got out of the car.

“Oh um I don’t know. I was just gonna look around.” She said timidly. She never liked asking for money.

“Ok well if you see something you like let me know and take some money incase you want to eat.” He said handing her some cash.

“Thanks.” She hugged him and left to meet Angel.



The girls shopped around for a little before stopping in the dress store. They looked threw the racks and Ashley’s eyes grew wide when she saw the prices of some of the dresses.

“You need to try this red one on. It would look so cute on you!” Angel said holding up a dress.

“I dunno. I don’t think I can afford any of these. I don’t have any money.”

“And you think I do?” Angel laughed. “You just have to learn how to work the brother.”

“You mean Nick gets you anything you want?” she asked.

“You have so much to learn.” Angel teased. “But you have a good teacher. See Nick gave me a credit card that I can use when my mom won’t let me buy something. He doesn’t care as long as I ask him first.”

“And he never says no?” she was still clueless.

“You just have to learn how to work them. Watch and take notes.” She laughed as she pulled out her cell phone and hit speed dial.

“Hey Nick!” she said as he picked up. “Nothing really. I’m out shopping with Ashley, you know AJ’s cousin.”

She listened for a second before continuing. “Yea we're having fun. I miss you though. When are you coming home?” she rolled her eyes as he continued on.

“Yea mom’s not letting me do anything. I have a Christmas party and she won’t even let me buy a new dress. I saw this really cute one today but she said I had to buy it myself.”

She smiled as Nick spoke.

“Thanks! You’re the best!” she grinned from ear to ear. “I can’t wait to see you next week.” She said as she hung up. “See! That was so easy.”

“I don’t know if I could do that.” Ashley sighed.

“You want to be an actress right?” Ashley nodded. “Well start perfecting it now. It comes naturally trust me.”

“Now let’s find the perfect dresses first.” She said as she pulled a few more off the rack. They both tried on a few dresses before each finding the right ones.

Angel paid for hers and asked them to hold Ashley’s. They called up AJ and met him near the store. He smiled at them as they approached.

“Hey girls. Have fun?”

“Duh. Shopping is always fun.” Angel laughed fixing her bags.

“You look like you stocked up. What cha get.” AJ asked.

“A new dress for my Christmas party and shoes and some accessories.” She smiled.

“You didn’t get anything?” he asked Ashley.

Angel gave her a look saying it was time to go for it.

“I saw one I liked but I don’t have enough money for it.” She frowned a little.

“I told you that if you saw something you liked to let me know.” He reminded her.

“I know. But I don’t like to ask you for money.” She kept up her sweet act.

“Well why don’t we go check out this dress. If it’s up to my standards it yours.”
“Really?” She smiled from ear to ear in excitement.

“Yup. C’mon lead the way.”

Angel gave her a wink and led the way to the store. She went and got the dress and showed it to AJ.

“Isn’t it fantastic?” Angel asked.

“It’s nice.” He looked over at Ashley. “Is this the one you want?”

Ashley nodded with a slight smile on her face.

“Okay then let’s get it. Do you have shoes and everything else for it?”

Ashley kept up her sweet act. “I’m sure I have something at home I could use.”

“You need new shoes. If I always look my best you have to always look your best.” He teased.

Angel helped her pick out shoes and jewelry. When they were done they brought everything to the register for AJ to pay.

“Ok Mr. McLean your total comes to $715.98.” The cashier said as she rang everything up. Ashley’s eyes grew wide. She had never spent that much money on anything before. It didn’t even seem so faze AJ. He just handed her a credit card and handed the bags to Ashley.

“There you go. Now you’re all set for the party. Is there anything else you wanted?” he asked as they walked out of the store.

Ashley was still in shock. “No. This is good. You spent enough money on me today.” She felt bad taking too much advantage of him even though he didn’t seem to mind.

“Why don’t I take you girls out to dinner and then I’ll bring you home. I have a party tonight.”

“Sounds good to us.” Angel smiled.

The girls walked slightly behind AJ and when he was out of ear shot Angel looked over and smiled at her.

"Told you it was easy." they both laughed and then got into the car.
Chapter 12 by AshleyNicoleFans
It was Christmas morning and Ashley woke to the smell of waffles and bacon. She sat up stretching and got out of bed. It was a little chilly so she threw on a sweatshirt and her slippers before heading downstairs.

“Good morning!” Denise greeted her with a big smile and a hug. “Merry Christmas.”

“Morning.” Ashley smiled back. “Merry Christmas. Breakfast smells good. Is Alex up yet?”

“Nope. You know that boy would sleep all day if he could.” They both laughed. “Can you go wake him up?”

“No problem.” Ashley grinned. She ran back upstairs to his bedroom and quietly opened the door.

AJ had the covers pulled over his head and she could hear him snoring lightly. She covered her mouth to keep herself from laughing. She grabbed the extra pillow that was lying on the bed and with all her might hit him in the head.

“What the hell?” AJ shot up grabbing his head. Ashley couldn’t contain her laughter any more. “You little brat your gonna get it!” AJ laughed as he grabbed his pillow and swung it at her practically knocking her over.

“Hey! That was hard!” she pouted.

“If you can’t take it then don’t dish it.” AJ chuckled.

“God, what time is it?” he glanced at his clock noticing it was only 9:30 AM.“Please tell me you have good reason for waking me up this early?”

“It’s Christmas morning doofus! Get up mom made breakfast.”

She caught herself right as the words came out of her mouth although AJ hadn’t noticed it. Ashley was beginning to worry herself. That was the second time she had referred to Denise as mom in the past few weeks. It troubled her because the last thing she wanted to do was replace her mother. She shook it off for now wanting to enjoy her Christmas but that’s easier said then done.

“Alright. Come on lets get downstairs and eat some breakfast.” AJ laughed knocking her out of thought as he grabbed her and threw her over his shoulder.

“Alex! Put me down!” she laughed as he traveled down the stairs.

“Morning mom.” He laughed walking into the kitchen. “I found my first present.” He laughed finally putting Ashley down. She lightly punched him in the arm and then took a seat at the kitchen table to enjoy breakfast with Denise and AJ.




The day had passed by pretty fast. They all went out to an early dinner and then returned home to open presents. Ashley had Angel’s party that night and AJ and Denise had a management party to attend.

“Whose ready for presents?” Denise asked as she took a seat.

“Me!” Ashley and AJ said in unison laughing at each other.

“Ok Ashley gets to open one first.” Denise said retrieving one of her presents.

“No fair! Why does she get to go first?” AJ whined.

“Honey you’re going to be 22 years old, the whining isn’t cute any more.” Denise teased him.

“Thanks mom.” He laughed. “C’mon open it already! I wanna go!”

“Big baby!” Ashley stuck her tongue out at him and began unwrapping her present slowly to tease him.

“You’re evil.” He laughed.

“I learned from the best.” She retorted.

They finished opening up all their small gifts and AJ went into the other room to bring in something for Ashley.

“I couldn’t wrap it because it was too hard.” He laughed as he handed her a new guitar case. “I figured you needed a matching one for your guitar and this one was perfect.”

“Oh my god! This is awesome!” she said in awe of the hot pink case.

“Look at the inside of it.” AJ grinned as she unlocked it.

“Wow!” she gasped. The inside was lined in pink fur. “This is the coolest thing ever!” she jumped up and hugged him.

“My gift for you isn’t as cool but I hope you like it. I saved up my money to get it for you.” She smiled as she handed him a wrapped box.

He unwrapped the box and opened up the cover. It was a leopard print cowboy hat and yellow tinted sunglasses. He pulled them out and put them on.

“These are dope.” He looked at himself in the mirror. “This is perfect. I love it.” He pulled her up into a hug.

“You sure you like it?” she asked timidly.

“Yes. Definitely. I love them both. You did a good job.” He teased her.

“I have one more present for you Ashley.” Denise said as she retrieved a big, flat gift from behind the couch.

“What’s that?” Ashley asked curiously.

“Open it and see.”

Ashley began opening it and stared at it in amazement tears filling her eyes. It was a picture of her and her mother from when she was first born. Her mother was holding her close and kissing her forehead. Ashley tried to choke back her tears but she couldn’t.

“I know you’ve been worrying about forgetting your mom, and I thought this would be perfect for you to help you remember her.” Denise informed her.

“It’s perfect.” She said threw her tears. She wiped her eyes and hugged Denise close. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome sweetheart.”

“I don’t know what I would do without the two of you. I love you guys.” She hugged them both closely.

“We love you too hunny.” Denise wiped the tears falling from her eyes.

“Not to ruin the moment but Mom, I have one more present for you.” AJ said as he pulled a card out from the bookshelf and handed it to her. “Open it.”

Denise sat back on the couch and opened the envelope. Inside was a pack of papers. She looked them threw then spoke.

“Alex this is the deed and title to your house in Florida. What’s this about?”

“Well I know I originally said I was looking for a house here in California to stay in when I come here to work, but I really like it out here and most of our work and recording is out here now.” He started.

“What does that mean?” Ashley asked.

“I’ve decided to move to California.” He continued. “I was going to sell the house in Florida but I figured it would be easier to just give it to you since you’re already half moved in there and Ashley has all her stuff there.”

“Wait so you’re just moving to California?” Ashley asked fighting back tears. She didn’t know what she would do with AJ so far away. She was so mad at him for not talking to her about it first.

“Well it’s easier for me to just move out here instead of flying back and forth every other week to record.”

“This is very gracious Alex.” Denise finally spoke up.

“I just want to make sure you guys have the best especially because I’ll be so far away.”

Ashley took a deep breath and blinked back tears. Everything was going so good until now. Why didn’t he care how she felt about this? She knew it was more convenient for him to live in California but she couldn’t stand the thought of him being so far away for good. She would never see him now.

AJ noticed the distressed look on her face.

“It’ll be cool living out here. You can come visit me and see Angel. That’ll be fun right?”

“Yea. Sure.” She faked a smile and looked down at the floor. “I’m gonna bring my stuff upstairs.” She said gathering up as many as her gifts as she could.

“You have to be at Angel’s soon. You should start getting ready.” Denise reminded her. She just nodded and went straight up to her room.



“Why is it that as soon as things start looking good my life takes 10 steps back?” she asked herself out loud angrily.

She wiped the tears that were welling in her eyes and walked into the bathroom. Her face was red, a mixture of crying and being angry with AJ. She splashed some water on her face and walked back into her room. She looked at the picture of her mother.

“Mom, why can’t things ever go right for me? Why did you have to go when I needed you?” she wiped her tears once more sighing to herself. She knew she had to be strong.

She gathered her clothes together and put them in her overnight bag. Denise and Alex wouldn’t be back until late so she was spending the night at Angel’s.

She threw on some clothes and grabbed her dress. Angel said she would help her with her hair so she was going early to get ready there. She double checked her bag and got Angel’s present from her nightstand before she headed on her way hoping that the party would raise her spirits.
Chapter 13 by AshleyNicoleFans
The New Year had come and gone and the holidays were over. Ashley and Denise were returning back to Florida in 2 days and she had done everything she possibly could to avoid AJ since Christmas. It was easier then she thought it would be. He was never really home anyway. He was rehearsing and recording during the day and going out at night. He said he wanted to take in all that L.A. had to offer before he got back into the studio everyday. Anytime he was at home Ashley made sure to avoid him. She was so angry with him for not talking to her before he decided to move and leave her behind.

Ashley’s phone rang as she touched up her hair and glanced in the mirror one last time. She didn’t bother looking at the caller ID before picking it up.

“I’ll be right out.” She said then threw her phone in her bag before running downstairs.

“BJ and Angel are here. I’ll see you later.” She said heading towards the door.

“Call me after the movie and let me know when you’ll be home.” Denise said.

“Okay. I will.” She said.

“Where are you going?” AJ said poking his head out of the kitchen as she walked by.

“Out.” She stated simply hoping it would end the conversation.

“I’ve barely seen you since you’ve been out here and you’re leaving in two days.” He frowned.

“Whose fault is that?” she mumbled under her breath.”

“Why don’t you stay home and hang with me tonight?” he smiled hoping to change her mind.

“BJ drove out here from L.A. to pick me up. I can’t just bail on them now.” She replied.

“Well then maybe tomorrow before you guys leave.”

“Yea maybe.” She gave him a half smile as she heard the horn honking. “Gotta go.” She turned away and headed to the car before he could say anything else.



The next day Ashley woke up early. It was her last day in California and she knew AJ would give her no choice but to spend it with him. Even though she did want to spend time with him she wasn’t sure if she would be able to hide her emotions from him. She knew him moving to California was better for him but she hated the fact that things were changing so fast.

She walked downstairs and was surprised to see AJ awake already.

“Hey kiddo.” He smiled up at her from the couch. “Are you finally gonna spend some time with me today?” he grinned at her.

“I guess.” She plopped herself down on the opposite side of the couch.

“What’s been up with you lately?” he nudged her playfully. “I feel like you’ve been avoiding me the past few weeks.”

“Way to go Sherlock.” She mumbled and turned the TV up.

“When did you get so sarcastic?” he raised an eyebrow at her.

“Are we gonna hang out or not?” she changed the subject.

“What’s with you? Seriously. Why are you avoiding me like the plague?” he shut the TV off trying to get her to focus.

“I’m not avoiding you.” She lied. “You’re just not around when I am.

“That’s crap and you know it.” He looked at her seriously. “Now what’s wrong?”

“Alex I shouldn’t have to tell you.” She sighed turning away from him to wipe her eyes that were beginning to form tears. This was the very thing she had been trying to avoid for 2 weeks.

“You’re mad at me for moving to California aren’t you?”

“Wow. Someone’s on a roll today.” She commented sarcastically.

“If you were mad a me why didn’t you say something?” he ignored her sarcasm.

“Honestly, I didn’t think you would care.” She stared at him dead on.

“Why would you think that? You know I care about how you feel.”

“You didn’t care how I felt when you decided to move here in the first place. You didn’t even ask me how I would feel.”

“I didn’t think it was such a big deal.” He said honestly. “I thought you’d be excited.”

“Excited about what Alex?” she wiped the tears that were streaming from her eyes. “The fact that you’d be a million miles away on the complete other side of the country? Or the fact that now I’ll never see you.”

“I’m sorry.” He said as he pulled her into a hug. “I didn’t think that it would upset you this much. But you know that I have to do this. It’s what’s best for me right now.”

“I know that you have to. I just wish you wouldn’t have surprised me with it out of nowhere.”

“I’m really sorry Ash, but I promise you things won’t change. I’ll come see you as much as I can and you can always come stay with me out here whenever you want. You’ll see it won’t be any different.” He reassured her.


Ashley sighed and smiled at him. As much as she wanted to believe him she knew that things couldn’t possibly stay the same.

Things were changing and as much as she hated it she knew she couldn’t stop it. She would just have to learn to live with things the way they were.
Chapter 14 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley couldn’t believe how fast the year was going by. It was almost August and she would be going back to school soon. The year had been uneventful so far. She celebrated her 13th birthday in May and had a party with her friends in California.

Just as she suspected things between her and AJ had changed. He didn’t even come to her party because he said he "had to work", yet Brian and Howie had made time to stop by. He had only come to visit once and even then he wasn’t home much. Every now and then he would send her a new track that the boys had recorded, which was his idea of keeping in touch. She knew from the beginning that things would change, as much as she didn’t want to believe it, but sometimes thing change too much.


Ashley walked downstairs and into the kitchen. She grabbed some cereal, milk and a bowl and plopped herself down in a chair at the table. Her spirits had been down lately and she knew exactly why. It was coming up on the one-year anniversary of her mother’s death. She couldn’t believe that she had made it threw the year without her mom.

There was a memorial being held for the families of the victims of the plane crash that her mother died in. Since Ashley was the only child who lost a parent in the crash they asked if she would say a few words at the memorial. She was so nervous and she couldn’t stop stressing over what to say, but she had finally decided that she would write a song. She had been working on it for weeks and wouldn’t let anyone hear it until she thought it was perfect.

She finished her bowl of cereal and washed out the bowl. She had just settled in on the couch in the movie room to watch a movie when she heard the phone ring. Sighing she got up off the couch and walked back into the kitchen to pick it up.

“Hello?”

“Why didn’t you pick up your phone?” Angel asked at the other end.

“Sorry I left it in my room. What’s up?” she hoped up on the counter so they could talk.

“Nothing. I just have a huge surprise for you that’s all.” Angel laughed.

“What is it?” Ashley smiled a little.

“Well. I haven’t seen you since last month and I’m bored out of my mind here in LA since Aaron isn’t around so I’m coming to spend two weeks with you!” Angel said excitedly.

“Really?” Ashley was always lonely when she was in Florida. She didn’t have many friends especially since she was home schooled for the past year. “When are you coming?”

“Tomorrow! So stop moping around and get ready for my wonderful arrival!” Ashley laughed at her friend. She always knew how to make her feel better.

“I’ll see you tomorrow then!” Ashley smiled as she hung up the phone.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


“So when is this memorial thing you were telling me about?” Angel asked sitting across from Ashley on her bed.

“Next Friday. I’m so nervous about it.” Ashley sighed. “I’m so glad you’re here with me though.”

“Is AJ coming from LA?” Angel flipped open a magazine and began looking threw it.

“He’s supposed to fly in on a red eye Thursday night.”

“When was the last time you saw him?”

“He was here in May after he ditched out on my birthday party but only for a couple days.” Ashley frowned.

“That sucks. Well you know he’ll make it up to you. They’ve all just been busy. I’ve barely seen Nick and we’re in the same state.” Angel smiled a little trying to make Ashley feel better.

“Yea I guess.” Ashley shrugged.

“Oh my God!” Angel squealed. “Ash look at this!” she handed her the magazine she had been flipping threw.

“What?” Ashley said concerned as she took the magazine from her. “What am I supposed to be looking at?” she said quickly scanning over the page.

Angel moved next to her and pulled the magazine back. “Here look!” she pointed to a picture in the bottom left corner of the page.

“Is that us?” Ashley asked shocked to see herself in a magazine.

“Backstreet Sisters out and about.” Angel read out loud. “Best friends and sisters to the Backstreet Boys, Angel Carter and Ashley McLean arrive at Teen Vogue’s Young Hollywood party in style.”

“Wow, I can’t believe they put us in a magazine.” Ashley said still in shock.

“We’ll I mean c’mon look at us we look fabulous here!” Angel teased. “I’m excited. This is the first time I’ve been in a magazine without my brothers.”

“C’mon let’s go show it to my mo-“ Ashley stopped and corrected herself. “My aunt.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was Thursday, the day before the memorial and Ashley was more nervous then ever. She really wanted to make her mom proud with the song that she wrote, but she was nervous about singing in front of everyone. Angel kept reminding her that mostly everyone there were strangers and that if this is what she wanted to do she had to get used to it. Ashley knew it was true but she couldn’t stop the butterflies.

Ashley was trying on outfits and wanted Denise to approve. She was walking down the stairs when she heard Denise on the phone with AJ. She quietly listened outside of the kitchen as Denise argued with him.

“Alex, you can’t do this to her!” Denise tried not to yell at him not wanted Ashley to hear. As much as she loved her son sometimes he was so irresponsible and inconsiderate of others. “You promised her that you would be there. This is very important to her and she wanted you there for support. What am I supposed to tell her?”

Ashley frowned. She knew AJ was canceling on coming to the memorial. She couldn’t believe that he would do this to her when he knew how much it meant and how much she needed him. She continued to listen.

“Alex, I can’t keep making up excuses for you. She’s 13 years old she’s not stupid. Now you’re the one who promised her that things wouldn’t change when you moved but it seems that all Los Angeles has done to you is make you forget about your family and only care about yourself.” She paused for a moment while he spoke then continued.

“Alex you do what you need to do, but after today I’m not making any more excuses for you. You know what it’s like to have promises broken.” Denise took a deep breath and sighed loudly. She was beginning to get fed up with all his excuses. “Alright Alex. I love you too son. Have fun at your party.” She said before hanging up.

“This boy is going to send me into an early grave.” Denise sighed to herself.

Ashley took a breath trying to maintain the tears that wanted to fall before walking in.
“Hi aunt Denise.” She smiled at her. Denise returned the smile. “I wanted to know if you liked this dress for the memorial.” She held up the dress for her to see.

“It’s really cute. Is that one of Angel’s that she brought?” she asked.

“Yea. She said I could borrow it.”

“Well I was thinking maybe once the memorial is over we could go clothes shopping. I know you need some back to school clothes.” Denise smiled.

She knew Ashley would be upset once she found out AJ wasn’t coming. Although a bribe wasn’t the best way to fix it she knew it would work.

“Really? That would be great!”

“Yes. You deserve it. You did really good in school last year and I know starting at a new school can be scary. I want you to look your best.” Denise smiled and pulled the chair out next to her. ”Why don’t you sit and talk for a minute. I have something I need to tell you.”

“Okay.” Ashley frowned slightly and sat down.

“I know this might upset you but I just got off the phone with Alex and he told me that he won’t be able to make it to the memorial tomorrow.” Denise took her hand and smiled a little.

“I know, I heard you on the phone.” Ashley admitted. “It’s okay. I know he’s really busy. It’s no big deal.” She tried not to sound upset.

“I’m sorry that he’s being so self centered but he has to learn on his own.” Denise pushed a stray hair out of her face.

“It’s okay really aunt Denise.” Ashley smiled in reassurance. “I’m just glad that I have you, Angel and Tony there with me. It will be fine.”

“Why don’t you and Angel get changed and we’ll go out to dinner.” Denise said trying to make up for her son.

“Okay. I’ll go let her know.” Ashley said as she headed out of the kitchen. When she reached her room she shut the door and let the tears fall.

“What’s wrong?” Angel asked jumping up from the bed and over to Ashley to hug her.

“He’s not coming.” She said threw sniffles.

“What? Who?” Angel was confused.

“Alex. He’s not coming to the memorial. He has a party or something that he thinks is more important.” She couldn’t stop the tears from falling. “I told him things would change and he promised me they wouldn’t but that’s all they keep doing.”

Angel led Ashley over to the bed so she could sit down and handed her a tissue. Ashley wiped her eyes and sighed.

“Why does he not care how much this means to me?”

“I’m sorry Ash.” Angel hugged her. “I wish I knew why but I don’t. But you have me and your aunt there with you. You’re not alone.”

“I’m so glad that you’re here.” She said as she hugged Angel back. “I don’t know what I’d do without you guys.”

She wiped her eyes again and stood up taking in a deep breath.

“I need to wash my face now.” She laughed a little. “My aunt wants to take us out to dinner.” She smiled a little trying to make herself feel better.

“Dinner it is then.” Angel smiled back as they prepared to leave for dinner.
Chapter 15 by AshleyNicoleFans
“Good morning.” Mayor Glenda Evans Hood addressed the crowd gathered at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. “We are here today to celebrate the wonderful memories and lives of those lost on this tragic day one year ago…”

Ashley tried to listen as she sat behind the stage waiting to hear her cue. Her hands were sweaty and the butterflies in her stomach felt like they were ready to fly out. She knew her song was ready but she was afraid of what everyone would think about it, but she knew it was something she had to do.

‘I can do this. Mom would be proud of me for getting out there.’ She said to herself as she took a deep breath and took a swig from her water bottle. She wished that AJ had been there. He always knew how to make her feel better. She pulled out her cell phone and dialed his number hoping he would answer and give her the boost of confidence she needed.

“You know who it is and you know what to do….Beep.” she heard the ever familiar voicemail. By now she had spoken to his voice mail more then him. She hung up not bothering to leave a message knowing he wouldn’t listen to it anyway. She sighed and listened back into Mayors opening speech.

“Many lives were lost that day, but one story in particular stood out to me. I met a young girl a few months ago that lost her mother in the plane crash. Her strength and determination to get past this was so endearing to me. When I asked her here to speak to you all about her mother she was hesitant at first but then asked if she could sing a song instead. She said she always had the dream of being a singer and this would mean a lot to her mom. You could imagine I couldn’t say no to that request. So at that I would like to welcome Ashley McLean to the stage to sing an original song dedicated to her mother and all those who lost someone in the crash of Flight 311. “

That was her cue. Ashley swallowed the lump that was forming in her throat as she grabbed her guitar and headed out to the stage. The crowd welcomed her with applause as she smiled shyly. She looked out to the front row where Denise, Tony and Angel were proudly smiling up at her. Angel gave her the thumbs up as she took a seat on the stool set up in front of the microphone.

“Hi everyone. I just wanted to say thanks for letting me come out here and sing today. It means a lot to me and my family and I know it will mean a lot to my mom. This is a song that I wrote called ‘I Miss You’ and I really hope you like it.” She took one last deep breath as she started strumming the melody.

“You used to call me your angel. Said I was sent straight down from heaven. You’d hold me close in your arms. I loved the way you felt so strong. I never wanted you to leave; I wanted you to stay here holding me.

I miss you. I miss your smile, and I still shed a tear every once in a while. And even though it’s different now you’re still here some how. My heart won’t let you go, and I need you to know I miss you. Sha la la la la I miss you.

You used to call me your dreamer, and now I’m living out my dreams. Oh how I wish you could see everything that’s happening for me. I’m thinking back on the past. It’s true that time is flying by too fast.

I miss you. I miss your smile, and I still shed a tear every once in a while. And even though it’s different now you’re still here some how. My heart won’t let you go, and I need you to know I miss you. Sha la la la la I miss you.

I know you’re in a better place, yea. Still I wish that I could see your face, oh. I know you’re where you need to be, even though it’s not here with me.

I miss you. I miss your smile, and I still shed a tear every once in a while. And even though it’s different now you’re still here some how. My heart won’t let you go, and I need you to know I miss you. Sha la la la la I miss you. I miss your smile, and I still shed a tear every once in a while. And even though it’s different now you’re still here some how. My heart won’t let you go, and I need you to know I miss you. Sha la la la la I miss you… I miss you, ohh.”

Ashley took a deep breath as she finished her song. She looked out into the crowd and saw the tears in every ones eyes. Denise smiled up at her and blew her a kiss. Ashley smiled back at her. The crowd erupted into applause and she couldn’t hold her tears back any longer. She wiped her eyes and Glenda re-approached the stand.

“Ashley that was beautiful, I’m sure you’re mother is smiling down on you and is proud of your accomplishments. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful talent with us.” She hugged Ashley as she made her way off the stage. Ashley joined Denise in the audience and embraced her as she cried.

“Ashley that was amazing. I’m so proud of you.” Denise kissed her head as they took their seats once more.
“Thanks.” Ashley smiled a bit.
“That was awesome.” Angel leaned over and whispered to her. “I told you you’d be great.”

Once the memorial was over and everyone congratulated Ashley on a job well done they made their way back home.

“Ashley I know you’ve heard it a million times today but that was truly an amazing song.” Tony said as they entered the house.

“Thanks. I’m just glad everyone liked it. I was nervous that no one would.” She sat down on the couch in the living room.

“I didn’t know that you sang that well. I mean you always talk about singing but I’ve never heard you. You have a great talent.” Denise sat next to her. “You should think about joining the chorus at school this year. It would be a great way to meet friends.”

“Yea, that would be fun.” She smiled.

“How’s about I treat you all to dinner. You’re choice.” Tony smiled at them.

“Romanelli’s!” Ashley smiled.

“How did I know.” Denise laughed and grabbed her purse from the counter.

“Romanelli’s it is.” Tony smiled as they all headed back out.
End Notes:
*Song: I Miss You by Miley Cyrus

Just a little info:
...I wish I was good at writing songs but I'm not lol but I feel that this song fit perfectly with the event. There are about 5 songs used in this story and if I had to write them all they would be bad so although in the story they are being used as "songs she wrote" they are real songs and I will state the name and artist at the end of the chapter
Chapter 16 by AshleyNicoleFans
The alarm clock rang and Ashley groaned as she hit the snooze button. She turned to face the clock and read the time.

“Uhh 6:30 in the morning. Remind me why I wanted to go back to regular school?” she asked herself as she lay back on her pillow and covered her head. She was just falling back to sleep when Denise knocked on her door.

“Are you up?” Denise asked peeking her head in the door. “It’s time to get ready.”

“I don’t wanna go.” Ashley groaned from under the covers.
Denise chuckled and walked into the room. She sat on the bed and pulled the covers off her face.

“Come on. You have to go.” She pulled the covers down and got up to open up the blinds letting light into the room. “Your bus comes in an hour and I want to make sure you eat breakfast. So get ready and come downstairs when you’re done.”

“Fine.” Ashley grumbled and sat up. She went over to closet and got out the outfit that she and Angel had picked out before she went back home.It was a pleated denim skirt that came a few inches above her knee and a yellow and pink striped shirt and pink sandals.

She was so nervous about starting back at school. She wanted people to like her but she was never good at making friends. She was hoping that starting at a new school would be better because no one would know who she was. She grabbed her new book bag and headed down stairs. She wasn’t in the mood for breakfast but she knew Denise wouldn’t let her leave until she ate.

“You look so nice!” Denise smiled as she sat down to eat a bowl of cereal.

“Thanks.” She smiled timidly.

“I know you’re nervous but I’m sure everything will go great.” Denise reassured her.

Ashley just nodded and finished eating her cereal and drinking her juice. She went back upstairs and brushed her teeth and met Denise back downstairs.

“Do you want me to walk with you to the bus stop?” Denise asked as she handed her the book bag.

“No. I’m okay. I guess I’ll see you after school.” She shrugged throwing the bag over her shoulder and heading out the door.

When she walked down to the bus stop she looked around not seeing any other kids. She wasn’t surprised, there weren’t that many kids living in her community and the ones who did were younger. She sighed and leaned up against the wall waiting for the bus. She glanced down at her watch. It was 7:25 and her bus would be there any moment. She glanced back up and saw the large yellow bus coming her way. She took a deep breath as it pulled up in front of her and opened its doors. She climbed aboard and greeted the bus driver before looking around at the rest of the bus. Everyone was talking and catching up with old friends and joking around with one another. She saw an empty seat a few rows back and she headed straight for it. When she was seated she clung to her book bag and looked out the window as the bus took off. She was drifting off into her own thoughts when someone tapped her.

“Hey, you there?” the girl sitting across from her laughed.

“Huh?” Ashley tuned to face her snapping out of her thoughts.

“We asked you if you were new. We haven’t seen you around before.”

“Oh, yea I’m new.” Ashley smiled timidly.

“So where did you used to got to school?” the other girl asked.

“I went to Celebration Academy in 6th grade but I was home schooled last year because my family had to travel a lot.” She knew she bended the truth a little but she didn’t want anyone to know who she was.

“You were home schooled?” Another girl behind them chimed in. “That’s so cool.”

“So are you like rich or something?” The first girl asked.

“What?” Ashley was shocked at the question.

“Well you live in Palm Gardens. Everyone who lives there is rich.”

“Oh, well I’m not rich.” Ashley laughed a little. It was true that she lived in a rich community and that AJ had a lot of money but that was his. She herself was almost homeless two years ago until AJ offered his home to her and her mom. She was nowhere near rich.

“Oh.” The girl raised an eyebrow at her as if she didn’t really believe her. “Well I’m Marissa Stellar.” She introduced herself. “And this is Kelly Stevens and Kimberly Peterson.” She pointed to the other two girls that had been talking to her.

“I’m Ashley McLean.” She said timidly hoping they wouldn’t question her. The bus came to a stop and Ashley was glad they had arrived at school before she could be questioned any more.

“Well Ashley, maybe we’ll have some classes together.” Marissa smiled as they headed off the bus.

“Yea. That would be cool.” She smiled as they parted. The other girls joined a larger circle of people who had already arrived and Ashley looked around at the large school a bit overwhelmed.

Her last school wasn’t nearly as big as this. She stood around quietly as more and more people gathered. Suddenly there was a voice coming threw the speaker system.

“Good morning students. I’m happy to welcome you all to Memorial Junior High School. This is your Principal Mrs. Mendez and I hope you all will have a wonderful day and an even better year. If you all listen up I will read off homeroom assignments. As your homeroom is called please report to your room where you will receive your class schedule and locker assignments. I will start off with eighth graders.”

Ashley listened intently not wanting to miss her assignment.

“…If your last name begins with the letter N or M you are in room 309…”

‘That’s me.’ Ashley thought to herself as she entered the building and began looking around for her room. ‘Man this school is huge’ Ashley thought as she searched around for the room. After about 5 minutes she found it. When she walked in the room everyone else was already seated. Ashley stopped timidly at the door and looked around as everyone looked up at her.

“You must be Ashley McLean.” Her homeroom teacher smiled at her.

“Yea. Am I late? I couldn’t find the room.” She blushed a little.

“No. It’s all right. I was just trying to get a jump start on roll call. There’s a seat for you right in the third row.”

“Thanks.” Ashley smiled and headed for her seat. She looked around the room as everyone talked amongst them selves. Obviously she was the only new person in her homeroom because everyone else seemed to know each other. The bell rang signifying the start of the day and everyone slowly quieted down as the homeroom teacher began to talk.

“Well good morning everyone. I know that most of you know me, but for those who don’t I am Mr. Johnson and I will be your homeroom teacher for the year. We have a lot to get accomplished in a short time so I’m going to hand out your class schedules and locker assignments.”

He passed back the schedules and Ashley looked threw the stack for hers. When she found it she passed the rest on. She looked at the schedule and smiled seeing that her second class of the day was chorus.

‘I guess this isn’t so bad.’ She thought to herself as she read over the whole schedule. She had English first everyday after homeroom then chorus science and math then lunch. Everyday after lunch she had history followed by a study period. Her day ended with gym and health, which alternated everyday.

She was glad she had gotten lost on the way to homeroom because she had actually seen most of her classrooms on the way. After everything was handed out her teacher walked back to his desk and looked threw some papers.

“Okay so last thing before you go to your first classes. I have some announcements here. As most of you know the broadcast club usually does our daily announcements, the first meeting will take place Thursday after school and everyone is welcome. The anchor jobs will go to eighth graders so I know you guys who couldn’t do it last year are excited about that. The drama club will hold its first meeting tomorrow afternoon after school to discuss this falls production. Auditions for the play will be the following week and all are welcome to try out.” He finished up just as the bell rang.

“Have a great day kids and I’m sure I’ll see some of you back here for Science class, if not see you tomorrow morning.” He smiled at them as they exited the classroom.

The rest of the day went by pretty uneventfully. Ashley had been to four classes so far and all of her teachers seemed to be really nice. It was already lunchtime and Ashley was starving.

She made her way to the cafeteria and pulled out her money, as she got online. After she got her food she looked around for an empty seat. She was about to sit down at a table by herself when she heard someone calling her name. She turned and saw Marissa waving at her.

“Ashley, come sit with us.” Ashley smiled as she walked toward the table. Along with Marissa were Kelly and Kimberly and a group of boys.

“Take a seat!” Marissa smiled as she moved over so Ashley could join them.

“Thanks. I thought I was gonna have to eat by myself. “ She smiled back as she sat down.

“So how do you like it here so far?” Kelly asked.

“It seems pretty nice. My teachers seem ok, I haven’t really met many people yet though.”

“Keep sitting with us at lunch and everyone will wanna be your friend.” Kim stated bluntly.

“Huh?” Ashley asked confused.

Marissa took over. “Look around. This school is separated into cliques. You have the freaky and the geeky over there,” She pointed towards the back of the lunchroom. “Over there you have the slackers. They don’t care about school at all.” Ashley looked around as Marissa continued. “See those kids. They’re like the super athletes. They play every sport in the world and those kids over there are the wishful thinkers.” Marissa laughed and Ashley looked at her confused again.

“We call them that because they wish they were us and would do anything to try and be us.” Kelley filled her in.

“So what are you guys then?” Ashley had always been in small schools where there were no cliques because every class had about 20 kids. She was clueless to the structure of things.

“We are the popular kids…and now that we’re in 8th grade we rule this school.” She smiled. “See so by being one of us you have it all.”

“But why me?” Ashley asked curiously.

“Why not? You seem to fit in with us. You’re really pretty and you have good taste in clothes.” Marissa stated.

“You really think so?”

“If we didn’t we wouldn’t have let you sit with us. Don’t worry you’re one of us now. ” All the girls nodded in agreement as the boy to Marissa’s left nudged her.

“What?” she turned to look at him.

“Are we invisible or something or are you gonna introduce us?” he asked.

“You have mouths you can introduce yourselves.” She laughed. He gave her a look as she rolled her eyes and turned back to Ashley.

“Sorry, how rude of me.” She said sarcastically. “This is my twin brother Matt and that’s Steven, Jesse and David.”

“Hi.” Ashley smiled shyly at the others first and then Matt.
‘Wow. He’s really cute.’ She thought to herself.

“You guys are really twins? That’s so cool. My best friend has a twin bother too.”

“Yea unfortunately.” Marissa laughed. “He’s such a pain but I guess I gotta love him.”

“Thanks sis. What a nice intro.” Matt teased. “Hey. I think I saw you in my Science class.” He smiled at her.

“Oh yea. Mrs. Rodriguez seems pretty cool.” She smiled back.

“Yea she’s alright I had her last year.” He kept smiling at Ashley and she could feel herself blushing. She quickly turned away and finished up her lunch.

“So what class do you have next?” Marissa asked.

“Umm history I think.” Ashley replied.

“With Mr. Kennedy?” Matt spoke up again.

“Let me check.” Ashley said as she pulled her schedule out. “Yea.”

“Awesome I have that class too. Maybe we could walk together?” he asked timidly.

Ashley could feel the butterflies in her stomach as she turned back to him.

“Sounds good to me.” She tried to maintain her smile.

“What else do you have?” Kelly asked.

“After history I have a free and then I have gym or health last.”

“Great we all have gym together then! That will be fun.” Kim smiled.


They all finished their food just as the bell rang.

“Ready for class?” Matt asked as they got up from the table.

“Yup.” She smiled and waved bye to everyone else as they headed off to class together.




The final bell rang and Ashley couldn’t wait to get home. She rushed to her locker to grab her belongings and made her way outside. She was heading over towards her bus when a honking horn caught her attention. She turned and saw the familiar black expedition with dark tinted windows. Thinking it was her aunt she headed over. The window rolled down a little as she approached.

“Surprise kiddo!” AJ grinned from inside the truck.

“Alex!” Ashley screamed in excitement as she ran around to the passenger side of the truck and jumped in immediately hugging him. “What are you doing here?”

“We got a few days off from rehearsing so I came here to surprise you.” He grinned. “I felt really bad about not showing up to the memorial. I wanted to make it up to you.”

“Yea well it’s gonna take more then just picking me up from school,” she stated bluntly. “I was really sad that you didn’t come.”

“I know…is dinner a start?” he asked as he pulled off.

“I guess.” She teased smiling at him.

When they reached the restaurant they were seated and looked over the menu ordering right away.

“So how was your first day of school?” he asked.

“Pretty good I guess. I have cool teachers.”

“Did you make any friends?”

“Yea a few people. They seem nice but they’re the popular kids. I don’t know why they would wanna be friends with me.” She frowned a little.

“Well did they say why they did?” he knew she hated meeting new people because she never knew if she could trust them.

“There’s always 8 of them…four girls and four boys, but one girl moved away and they need a replacement. They said I was too pretty to not hang out with them.”

AJ couldn’t help but laugh. “That’s probably the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard.”

“I know but I need friends and they’re the only people who talked to me today.” She smiled. “They were really nice to me and we all have lunch together and were on the same bus.”

“Well I’m glad your making friends already.”

“Me too.” Ashley smiled as their food arrived.


When dinner was finished AJ ordered them dessert. While they were waiting he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small envelope.

“Okay so I have another surprise for you.” He grinned handing her the envelope.

“What’s this?” she asked confused as she took it.
“Open it up and see.”

Ashley tore open the envelope and pulled out a gold American Express card. She looked it over noting that it had her name on it.

“This is for me?” she looked surprised.

“Yea. I know how tight my mom can be with money sometimes and I figured with me living all the way in California it would be easier for you to get what you want if you see something nice.” He explained.

“What are you taking I’m sorry lessons from Nick?” she teased knowing a credit card was his way of making it up to Angel for not being around.

“Maybe…is it working?” he gave her a slight smile.

“For now.” She teased as their dessert came.

“You have to be really careful with that though and don’t let mom see it or she’ll kill me.”

“I’ll be careful.” She promised him. “Thanks so much!” she hugged him. “You’re the best.”

“Yeah money always works with the ladies.” He joked.

“Shut up.” She stuck her tongue out at him before taking a bite of her cake. “It doesn’t always work but it helps.” She said through a mouth full of cake.

“Yea. Angel’s taught you too well.” He laughed.




When they arrived home Denise was sitting at the dinner table with Tony eating dinner.

“Hey guys!” Denise smiled at them. “How was your first day of school Ashley?”

“It was okay. I think it will be good.”

“Did you make any new friends?” She asked. AJ couldn’t help but laugh and Ashley sent him a dirty look.

“Yes I did.” She said as AJ continued to laugh.

“What’s so funny? Am I missing something?” Denise asked confused.

“Nothing. Alex is just an idiot.” She shoved him and he pushed back.

“Hey none of that you guys.”

“Ashley’s friends with the ‘popular kids’.” AJ finally supplied the reason behind his laughter. “She completes them.” He said in his best doctor evil voice.

“Shut up. You’re such a jerk.” She shoved him again.

“Alex, stop making fun of her friends. I’m sure they’re very nice kids.” Denise smiled at Ashley.

She stuck her tongue out at AJ as he teasingly hugged her messing up her hair.

“You know I’m just playing kiddo. I’m happy you made friends.”


Ashley sat downstairs with Denise Tony and AJ for a little while longer telling them about the rest of her day and all her teachers. Ashley glanced at the clock and noticed it was already 8:00.
She excused herself from the table and headed upstairs because she had promised Angel she would call her to let her know how everything went.


The phone rang a few times before Angel picked up on the other end.

“Hey girl.” She answered. “I was beginning to think you forgot about calling me.”

“Nope. Alex surprised me today after school and took me out to dinner and I was downstairs talking to my Aunt.”

“Oh ok so how did it go?” Angel asked anxiously.

“I was really scared at first but it was pretty good.” She smiled to herself looking back on the day. “I was ready to die when I had to take the school bus because I always heard how bad it was but there were these 3 girls who talked to me and they were really nice.”

“Awesome. At least you met people early.”

“Yea. I got lost on my way to homeroom but I pretty much figured out the school now. It’s huge though. My schedule isn’t that bad and I have good teachers but that stuff is boring.” She laughed.

“So then what’s more interesting?” Angel laughed along.

“Well I ended up having lunch with the three girls I met on the bus which was good cause I didn’t eat alone. So apparently the school has a lot of cliques and I guess they thought I was cool enough to be part of theirs. They’re considered the popular kids at school so I guess that’s cool.”

“First day and already at the popular table.” Angel teased. “See I told you that school would be fine.”

“Oh I almost forgot the one girl Marissa she has a twin brother too.”

“You just attract us twins don’t you?” she laughed.

“I guess so!” Ashley joked back. “His name is Matt.” Just saying his name made her blush and her butterflies come back. “We have two classes together.”

Angel could hear the excitement in her voice at the mention of his name and couldn’t help but bring it up.

“So this Matt kid. Is he cute?”

Ashley giggled a little. “I guess.” She said shyly.

“Oh give me a break. I can hear it in your voice that you think he’s cute.” Angel laughed.

“So what if I think he’s cute and that he has an amazing smile.” She continued remembering how he kept smiling at her.

“Somebody’s got a crush.” Angel teased in a singsong voice.

“Shut up. I do not.” She defended. She could feel her face flushing.

“You don’t need to lie to me. Hello I’m you’re best friend we’re supposed to talk about boys.”

“Fine.” Ashley gave in. “Yes I think he’s really cute.”
Ashley pulled the phone away as Angel squealed on the other end.

“Thanks for killing me ear.” She teased.

“Sorry I’m just excited that you finally have a crush on someone. I’ve been trying to hook you up for a year!”

“Well just cus' I have a crush on him doesn’t mean anything. I’m sure he doesn’t like me.” She frowned.

“Oh whatever. He’d be stupid not to like you.” Angel reassured her.

Ashley heard some noise in the background as Angel groaned on the other side.

“Hate to cut this short but I have to go. The dogs are going crazy and I need to eat dinner. Call me tomorrow and let me know how everything goes.”

“I will. Bye.” She said hanging up the phone and placing it back on the charger. She sighed noticing it was almost 9:00.

She decided to get an early start on getting ready for bed so she’d be wide-awake the next morning. After saying good night to everyone she returned to her room to shower and go to bed excited about what tomorrow would hold.
Chapter 17 by AshleyNicoleFans
The next morning Ashley again waited for the bus in front of her community. When she boarded she noticed Marissa and the other girls weren’t there. She saw Matt sitting toward the back of the bus with his friends. He smiled at her and waved her back to where they were sitting.

“Hey.” She smiled at him as she approached taking a seat in the empty row across from him. “Where’s your sister?”

“She woke up late so my moms driving her and the other girls in. She was gonna call you to ride with them but she didn’t have you’re number.” He laughed. “Leave it to her to wake up late on the second day of school.”

Ashley laughed a little and smiled shyly at him.

“So where were you yesterday after school? We didn’t see you on the bus ride home.” He asked.

“Oh. My brother surprised me and picked me up from school.” By now Ashley had become accustomed to calling AJ her brother. She always felt as if he was her big brother anyway and AJ usually referred to her as his little sister.

“Are you gonna ride home on the bus today?” he asked.

“I was actually thinking about checking out the Drama Club after school. So I guess someone will come pick me up when it’s over.”

“That sounds cool. The fall musical is usually pretty good. I kinda always wanted to try out but my sister always told me it was stupid.” He confided in her.

“Are you serious?” she laughed a little. “Why does she think it’s stupid? If you like something you should go for it.”

“Don’t tell her I told you but she tried out once and didn’t make it. She’s thought it was stupid ever since. But you’re right, I shouldn’t care what she thinks. ” He smiled at her as the bus pulled up to the school.

“I’ll see you in class later.” Matt waved as he headed in the opposite direction as they exited the bus.



The end of the day came fast for Ashley. Although she had seen and spoke to Matt throughout the day he hadn’t mentioned anything more about going to the Drama Club meeting after school. She figured it might be because Marissa was around.

As the final bell rang Ashley headed to her locker to gather her things before heading to the auditorium. She closed her locker and almost screamed, dropping her bag in the process, surprised to see Matt smiling on the other side of the door.

“Oh my god. You scared me.” She laughed as she retrieved her bag from the floor.

“Sorry.” He grinned laughing a little. “I didn’t mean to.”

“It’s okay. I’ll survive the minor heart attack.” She teased.

“So are you still going to the Drama Club meeting?” he asked as she started walking down the hall.

“Yea. On my way there now. What about you? Do you dare go against the words of Marissa?” she laughed.

“Hey! I have a mind of my own as much as she likes to think otherwise and I can do whatever I want.” He retorted.

“So then I take that as a yes?”

“Yes.” He replied simply with a smile.


They walked into the auditorium and took a seat towards the front. It was already crowded and she was surprised at how many people were there. Ashley listened intently as the meeting began.

“Hello everyone. As many of you know I am Michael Dunham the musical director here. Welcome back to those who have been here before and a big welcome to those of you who are new. We will have an amazing time this year in the drama club. For those of you who don’t know we have two big shows a year. The first is our fall musical which takes place just after Thanksgiving and the second is our Spring Showcase where we highlight some of our best performers and do a few group performances.” He briefed everyone on the upcoming events. “I know all of you are anxious to know what our Fall Musical will be and I’m just as anxious to tell you.” He grinned at them. “So without further ado the fall musical will be…” he paused for dramatic effect then continued. “GREASE!”

The chatter grew among the crowd as everyone excitedly responded. Michael shushed them trying to regain control.

“Now there will obviously be our two leads, Sandy and Danny. This roll is only open to eighth graders. The rolls of the Pink Lady’s and the T-Birds are priority rolls for eighth graders but can go to seventh graders as well. There will be plenty of chorus rolls and other jobs available to every one else. We have audition pieces up here. There will be two rounds of auditions for our two leads, a solo audition and then a duo audition for the top 3 boys and girls. We will choose who works together on those.” He began to hand out audition forms.

“As you can see on the forms there are three lines for characters. Put down your top 3 that you would like to audition for and make sure that your song and scene are completely memorized on audition day. Come pick up scripts and lyrics in the front and you are free to go for today. There will be an audition sign-up list on the door make sure you sign up for a time on the way out and auditions are next week after school on Monday! See you all then and good luck!” he dismissed them.

“Who do you think you’re gonna audition for?” Matt finally spoke as they picked up the scripts in front.

“I think Sandy and then a Pink Lady. Might as well go big or go home right?” she laughed a little.

“You’re right. There’s no harm in at least trying. If we don’t get the big rolls maybe we’ll at least be in it.” He replied as they headed to the sign up sheet.

“It would be cool though.” She smiled as she signed her name to the paper. As they left the auditorium Ashley searched for her phone in her bag.

“I have to see if my brothers home to pick me up or I might have to wait.” She said as they walked out the front door and sat on the steps.

“My mom is usually out so I guess I have to wait around here until she gets home.” Matt said as he sat down.

“What about your dad?”

“Oh.” Matt frowned. “My parents are divorced my dad moved to Miami so he’s not around that much.”

“Oh I’m sorry.” Ashley said feeling bad.

“It’s ok.“he smiled a little reassuringly. “What about you? Are your parents still together?”

Ashley froze for a second. She didn’t know what to say. ‘Both my parents are dead?’ that didn’t sound to cheerful. She panicked and said the first thing that came to mind.

“I live with my mom.” She lied. She knew lying wouldn’t solve anything but she didn’t want people feeling sorry for her. “I better call my brother before he goes out or something.” She quickly changed the subject.

“Hey Alex…” she said as he picked up. “Yea I’m done can you come get me? Thanks see ya soon.” She said as she hung up.

“I called home Marissa said my mom wouldn’t be home till six so I guess I’m stuck here.” He said as he put his phone away.

Ashley thought for a second. She knew it was risky introducing him to AJ especially since no one had asked her about him yet but she would feel bad leaving him there by himself for a few hours.

“I’m sure my brother could drop you off at home.” She looked over at him.

“Are you sure? I mean I don’t wanna waste his time.”

“It’s no problem really.” She reassured him.


A few minutes later AJ pulled up in his truck. Ashley and Matt walked toward the car. He rolled down the window as they approached.

“Hey Alex.” She smiled at him as she opened the door. “You wouldn’t mind dropping my friend off at his house right? His mom can’t come get him until 6.”

“No problem. Hop on in.”

“Thanks so much. I really appreciate it.” Matt said as he got in the back and shut the door.

“It’s no big deal.” AJ said turning to face him. “I’m AJ by the way.”

“Matt.” He replied as he shook his hand.

“So Matt, where to?” AJ asked as he pulled away from the school.

“Sunshine Villas.” Matt replied.

“Ok. I know exactly where that is.” He said as he headed in the direction of Matt’s house. “So what were you doing after school that you missed the bus?” AJ turned his attention to Ashley.

“Drama Club meeting. The auditions for the musical are next week.”

“That’s cool. What musical is it?” he asked.

“Grease.” Ashley grinned. “It’s my favorite.”

“I always wanted to be in Grease. John Travolta made Danny Zuko so cool.” He confessed laughing.

“Have you always been a dork?” she teased.

“Shut up or I’ll drop him off and make you walk home.” He retorted.

She stuck her tongue out at him and just turned the radio on.

A few minutes later they arrived at Matt’s house.

“Thanks so much again.” Matt said as he got out of the car. “I’ll see you tomorrow on the bus.” Matt smiled at Ashley.

“Bye Matt.” She smiled back. “See you tomorrow.” She watched as he walked up the driveway to his house.

“Bye Matt.” AJ mocked her batting his eyes. “Someone’s got a crush.” He teased.

“I do not!” she shot back.

“Uh huh whatever you say.” He laughed as he drove them back home.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Her first week of school flew by and before she knew it the weekend had arrived. AJ had returned back to California to get back to work with the boys and Ashley knew it would be a while before she saw him again. She was laying across one of the chairs in the movie room watching TV when she heard her cell phone ring. She paused the TV and picked it up not recognizing the number.

“Hello?” she asked timidly.

“Hey Ashley.” The familiar voice brought a smile to her face. ”It’s Matt.” He informed her although she had already figured that out. Grinning from ear to ear she tried to maintain her cool.

“Oh hey.” She said nonchalantly.

“I hope you don’t mind but Marissa gave me your number.”

“Oh yea that’s no problem.”

“I was wondering if you’ve memorized your lines for the audition on Monday yet.”

“I looked over them like once but I haven’t really focused on it yet. I wanted to get the rest of my homework out of the way first.” She informed him.

“Oh yea that was a good idea.” He paused for a few seconds before speaking up again. “Cuz’ I was just wondering if maybe you wanted to run lines together. I mean I know they pick pairs for the duo audition but I figured it be good to work on it with someone and since you’re auditioning too I figured you might want someone to run it with. If you don’t want to that ok I understand.” He quickly stumbled threw the sentence.

She could hear he was nervous and tried to stifle a giggle.

“Um yea no that’s a good idea. My house is pretty quiet there’s a lot of room to practice if you wanna come over here.” She offered.

“Um yea sure that sounds fine I can have my mom drop me off. Is now okay?”

“Yea sure.” She gave him all her information on how to get to her house. “I’ll leave your name at the gate and they’ll let you in. See you soon.” She smiled from ear to ear as she hung up. She ran upstairs to let Denise know that someone would be coming over.

“Aunt Denise?” she called out looking around from room to room.

“I’m outside sweet heart.” Denise called back.

Ashley walked outside to the covered pool area and took a seat next to Denise who was reading a book relaxed in a lounge chair.

“I thought you were watching a movie.” Denise asked placing down the book on the nearby table.

“I was but one of my friends called and asked if we could run lines for the auditions together and I know I should have asked first but I was excited and I kinda just told him he could come here. I hope that’s okay.” She rambled hoping Denise wouldn’t be mad that she hadn’t asked permission first.

“That’s no problem dear. Is this the friend that Alex was teasing you about all week?” she asked with a coy smile.

Ashley blushed a little. AJ couldn’t help but to tell everyone about her ‘crush’.

“Don’t worry about it sweetheart I know he’s just your friend. I won’t tease you.”

Ashley smiled at her and gave her a hug. It was just then that she had remembered her little lie that she had told Matt a few days earlier.

“There’s one more little thing I forgot about.” She said her smile fading. Denise signaled her to go on.

“Well the other day we were talking about who we live with and stuff and I didn’t want anyone to feel bad for me or anything about not really having parents anymore and so I kinda lied and said that you were my mom. Which is kinda true now so I guess I didn’t really lie but I just didn’t know what to say. I’m not ready for everyone to know all that about me.” She sighed trying to fight back tears that wanted to fall.

“Honey I know that this past year has been hard on you and it’s okay to not want to let everyone in on what’s going on. Especially people you just met. Now you know that I would never want to take the place of your mother but if you feel comfortable with the situation then you are more then welcome to tell people that I’m your mom.” Denise embraced her.

“Do you think my mom would be mad at me?” she couldn’t fight back the tears any more. She quickly wiped them away as they fell down her cheek.

“Honey no one will ever replace your mother in your heart, no matter who you call mom. She knows that you love her and she wants you to be happy.”

“Aunt Denise?” she asked pulling out of the hug and wiping away a few more tears. Denise nodded a yes. “Can I call you mom?” she asked timidly.

“Of course you can sweetheart.” She kissed her cheek and pushed a stray hair out of her face. “Whenever you want.” She reassured her.

“Thanks.” Ashley smiled a little and took a deep breath getting up from her chair. “God I better go splash some water on my face before Matt gets here.” She laughed a little. “Thanks so much for everything. You’re the best.” She kissed her cheek and ran off to clean herself up.



Five minutes later the sound of the doorbell echoed through the house. Ashley, who had just finished changing clothes, rushed down the stairs to the front door. She took a deep breath to compose herself before opening it.

“Hey Matt.” She smiled at him and opened the door further so he could come inside.

“Hey.” He smiled back as she shut the door. “This house is huge. You were right when you said I wouldn’t miss it.” He laughed a little.

“Yea. It is pretty big.”

“Just you and you’re mom live here?”

“Mostly. But my brother has his own room and sometimes my grandfather stays with us so he has a room. C’mon I’ll show you around and then we can get down to business.” She said as she gave him the tour of the house.

When she finished showing him the whole house she took him outside to introduce him to Denise.

“Mom?” she said timidly poking her head out onto the patio feeling kind of weird at first. Denise smiled and waved them back putting her book down again.

“Hey sweetie I heard you answering the door I was wondering when you would make your way back here.” She smiled. “You must be Matt.” She shook his hand.

“Yes mam.” He answered politely as he shook her hand.

“Mam is so formal.” She laughed. “You can call me Denise.”

“Okay.” He smiled a little loosening up.

“We’ll we’re gonna get to rehearsing. We’ll be in the movie room if you need us.”

“Ok you kids have fun.” She smiled as they left the room and headed to the TV room.

“Your mom seems really nice.” Matt said as they sat down on the recliners.

“Yea.” Ashley smiled a little. “We have sodas and chips and stuff over there in the cabinet if you want anything.” She quickly changed the subject. She felt secure calling Denise mom but she still needed some time to get used to it.

They rehearsed for about an hour before calling it quits. Ashley found herself at ease talking to him and she was surprised that she wasn’t nervous to sing her audition song for him either. She was also in awe of how good he was. He had such a good voice there was no way that he wouldn’t get picked to play Danny. Even though when she had finished her song he told her that she had the best voice that he had heard from all the years he’d seen the school play she still doubted herself and her abilities. She shook all her doubts aside and decided to just give it her best shot, the worst that could happen was she didn’t get picked.

As they put away their papers Ashley felt her stomach start to grumble. She glanced at the clock and saw it was already 6:00. ‘No wonder I’m hungry. I haven’t ate since this morning.’ She thought to herself.

“What time did your mom say she was picking you up?” she asked.

“She can’t come until like 9:30. I hope that’s ok?” he replied.

“Well I’m starving. We can go upstairs and get some dinner and watch a movie till she comes if you want.”

“That sounds good to me. I’m staring to get a little hungry.” He confessed.

Ashley headed up the stairs with Matt in tow and found Denise in the kitchen.

“Hey mom?” She smiled at her. “Do we have anything for dinner we’re getting kinda hungry.”

“Two steps ahead of you sweetie. I already ordered some pizza.”

“Awesome.” She smiled taking a seat at one of the counter stools and motioning for Matt to sit down.

“I heard you guys practicing, it sounded really good.” She smiled at them. “I think we might have the next Sandy and Danny right here.”

“I wish.” They both said in unison laughing at each other.

“Well the pizza should be here any minute. I have some laundry to do so the money’s on the counter.” Denise said as she left for the laundry room.


A few minutes later the doorbell rang and Ashley got the pizza. She brought it into the kitchen and placed it on the counter.

“Wanna eat this in the movie room and watch a movie till your mom comes?” she asked grabbing plates and cups from the cabinet.

“Yea sounds good. I’ll carry the pizza down for you.” He said grabbing the box.

“Thanks.” She smiled as they headed downstairs.

They decided on watching ‘Meet the Parents’ and settled in on the recliners with their pizza. When the movie was over they brought their plates and the leftover pizza back upstairs. Just as they placed their plates in the sink Matt’s phone rang. He glanced at the caller ID and saw it was his mom. After hanging up he turned his attention back towards Ashley.

“My mom said she’ll be here in five minutes. She wants me to wait outside.”

“I can wait with you.” She said as they headed towards the door.

“Thanks again for practicing with me and for dinner. I feel good about the auditions on Monday now.” He smiled.

“Me too.” She smiled back shyly. “I’m glad we got to practice.”

“Yea…”he nervously stuck his hands in his pocket.

“Yea…” Ashley sighed biting her lip not knowing what else to say.

He looked over at her and started to lean closer to her. Ashley could feel the butterflies in her stomach start to fly. Just as he was leaning close enough to kiss her he heard the sound of his moms horn coming from the drive way.

“Matt. Come on we need to go.” She called as she rolled down the window.

Both Ashley and Matt blushed in embarrassment and turned away from each other.

“Umm. I’ll see you at school Monday.” He said quickly as he fled to the car.

“Bye.” She said shyly feeling her cheeks flush.

When the car was finally out of sight she took a deep breath trying to regain her self before returning inside to relax for a while before going to sleep.
Chapter 18 by AshleyNicoleFans
Monday came around quicker then Ashley had expected and she was nervous in anticipation of her audition that afternoon. She and Matt had remained silent about the kiss that almost took place outside her house the other night but it was still in the back of her mind.

The day seemed to go on slower then usual as Ashley checked the clock in her health class. She was glad she didn’t have gym today because she didn’t want to look bad for the audition. She was in her own dream world when she saw Marissa passing her a note on her desk. She quickly grabbed it and quietly unfolded it under her desk.

‘I think my brother likes you!’ It read complete with a smiley face. Ashley tried to contain her smile as she turned to her and whispered.

“Really?”

“He couldn’t stop talking about you all weekend.” Marissa confided. “Don’t tell him I told you he would kill me.”

“Girls is there something you would like to share with the class?” their teacher interrupted their conversation. They both quickly turned their attention back to their teacher.

“Sorry.” They both mumbled. As soon as she turned her back they began talking again.

“So?” Marissa asked.

“So what?”

“Duh! Do you like him too?”

Ashley could feel her cheeks flushing as she tried to contain her grin.

“Oh my god you do!” Marissa whispered in excitement.

“You better not tell him.” Ashley warned.

Marissa just grinned slyly and Ashley knew that wasn’t a good sign.


The bell finally rang and the girls all parted to make their way to their lockers. Ashley knew she couldn’t worry about Marissa talking to Matt because she had to focus on the audition. She checked her watch as she finished packing her books for the day. It was only 3:00. Her audition time wasn’t for another hour so she had plenty of time to relax and get her mind focused.


She sat in the hallway leaning against some lockers as she waited for her turn. The boys were auditioning in the gym so she was by herself. She kept checking her watch every few minutes but the time seemed to be going by slowly. She was listening to her song on her headphones when she saw someone standing in front off her. She looked up and smiled as she realized it was Matt. She pulled off her headphones as he took a seat next to her.

“You finished your audition already?” she asked.

“Yeah. I think it went really good.” He smiled. “How much longer until yours?” he asked. She glanced at her watch.

“Only another 5 minutes or so. I think there’s one other person ahead of me.” She bit her lip nervously.

“Don’t worry, you’ll be awesome.” He smiled reassuring her.

“Thanks.” She smiled back. “I can’t believe that we have to be here until six tonight. The auditions seem so long.” She laughed trying to calm her nerves with some conversation.

“I know I don’t think I’ve ever been here that late, but hopefully it will be worth it.”

“Ashley McLean.” Mr. Dunham’s assistant called from the door.

“That’s me.” She replied getting up from her spot on the floor.

“Good Luck!” Matt called out as she walked threw the door. She turned and smiled back at him.



Her audition went off flawlessly and she thought she had made a good impression on Mr. Dunham. She hoped she had done good enough to get her threw to the pairs audition and everyone was anxious to find out. There were two other people who auditioned after Ashley and after that everyone was called back into the auditorium and asked to take a seat.


“Okay.” Mr. Dunham the musical director began. “We want to thank everyone for the amazing turnout we’ve had today. This has been one of the hardest auditions we have had so far. We have narrowed our leads down to a top 4 girls and boys.
We will pair you up and proceed to the duet audition where you will act out your scene and then perform your song. We will be judging you on how well you work with someone else, your performance and your overall comfort on stage. Everyone else will be able to sit in on these auditions but we ask that you remain quiet in respect of those on stage. Now we might pair you up and ask you to perform with more then one person if we feel that someone might have a better chemistry.”


He looked threw the papers in front of him. “Ok so those trying out for the other roles will be tomorrow and the pairs will be announced later on today. So without further ado the top four boys are David Reed, Michael Johnson, Matthew Stellar and Jason Alexander.”

“Oh my god you made it!” Ashley exclaimed as she heard Matt’s name being called. “That’s awesome.”

“Yes! I can’t believe it!.” He said smiling. “Your next I know it.”

“The top four girls are Destiny Landau, Michelle Santiago, Kimberly Parmenter and Ashley McLean.”

Ashley’s eyes lit up in excitement as she heard her name being called.

“Told you!” Matt said as he hugged her. She felt the butterflies rise in her stomach. She couldn’t believe that she had really made it to the next level.

“Congratulations to you all for making it this far and to those who didn’t don’t worry there are parts for all of you still. Will all of you please report to the stage and we will pair you up and begin in a few minutes.” He said as the eight of them made their way to the front.

Ashley was first placed with Jason. She was a little sad that she hadn’t been placed with Matt because she knew they sounded good together but she knew she could prove she deserved the part on her own and hopefully he would do the same.

After everyone had gone threw once with their partners they looked over their papers and decided to move some people around. This time Ashley was paired up with Matt and she knew it was now or never, it was their time to really show that they both had what it took to play the leads. They made it threw their song and scene flawlessly and Ashley could tell that Mr. Dunham was pleased.

The auditions were over and now it was up to Mr. Dunham and his assistant to make the decisions. They had provided pizza and drinks in the cafeteria for everyone since they were missing dinner and it gave them plenty of time to make their final decisions. Once everyone had finished eating they made their way back upstairs.

Mr. Dunham stood in the front of the auditorium holding a list in his hand. Once everyone seated he began speaking again.

“As you heard there was a lot of talent here today. This decision was not an easy one but we feel like we have made the best choices. Now anyone in grades 6 and 7 who signed up for a chorus roll have been cast as chorus. You will receive more specific character rolls tomorrow when we hand out scripts. Those of you who made the pairs audition but aren’t cast as our two leads will receive the rolls of the Pink Lady’s and T-Birds. All the others you will receive your specific rolls tomorrow. So now onto what you’ve all been waiting for, the rolls of Sandy and Danny.”

Ashley grabbed Matt’s hand out of nervousness hoping she would hear their names called.

“Danny will be played by Matt Stellar. Congratulations Matt.” He announced as everyone took a moment to congratulate him.

Ashley hugged Matt in excitement. “Wow that’s amazing!” she smiled at him.

“It’ll be even better when he calls your name.” he smiled back.

She bit her lip nervously as he began to speak again.

“And Sandy will be played by Ashley McLean. Congratulations to the both of you. You did an amazing job and I look forward to working with you and everyone else. See you all tomorrow after school where we will hand out scripts and rehearsal schedules.”

Ashley could barely contain herself from screaming in excitement. She couldn’t believe she had just received the lead in the school play. There were congratulations from everyone around them as she sat there in shock.

“We did it I can’t believe it!” Matt said snapping her out of her daze.

“Oh my god I know! My moms gonna be so excited!” she said as they exited the school. Ashley saw Denise’s car parked across the street and she couldn’t wait to run and tell her.


“Ashley wait!” Matt called out to her. She stopped on her fast track towards the car and turned back to him. He caught up with her before he spoke.

“I was wondering if maybe we could uhh go out this weekend to celebrate? Like get pizza and see a movie?” now it was his turn to bite his lip nervously.

“Like a date?” she said the butterflies returning to her stomach and her cheeks flushing.

“Yea. I mean if you want.”

“Yea that would be fun. I have to ask my mom but I’m sure she’d say yes. I’ll let you know tomorrow.” She smiled trying to contain her excitement.

“Great!” he smiled. “I’ll talk to you tomorrow then.” He gave her a quick hug goodbye and retreated to his car as Ashley did the same.
Chapter 19 by AshleyNicoleFans
The phone rang in Ashley’s room as she groaned from under the covers. She had planned on sleeping in all day because she had a long week ahead at school. She ignored the phone until she heard her answering machine pick up and Angel’s voice coming on the other side.

“Ashley, answer the phone! I know you’re right there! Stop being so lazy and pick up it’s noon there.” She laughed.

Ashley turned over and grabbed the phone off of the stand without lifting her head from the pillow.

“What?” she grumbled.

“If I’m up at 9 in the morning you can be up at 12. Now get up and talk to me.”

“I’m up…I’m up.” She laughed. “What’s up?”

“How was your date?” Angel asked the second she knew Ashley was paying attention.

“Good morning to you too.” Ashley laughed at her bluntness.

“Sorry.” She laughed. “Good morning. I was just excited for you.”

“It’s ok. I’d do the same thing with you.” She laughed.

“Oh wait before I forget I have awesome news.”

“What?” Ashley asked.

“Aaron has an extra ticket to the Teen Choice Awards and said I could give it to you.”

“What! Really?” she said excitedly.

“I always wanted to go to an award show!”

“Well now we get to go together with Aaron.”

“I’m so excited it’s gonna be awesome.”

“So you have to come out here next week. It’s on a Friday, can you miss school?”

“I’m sure I can get out of it and I’m not scheduled for rehearsal either that day.” She said as she looked over the schedule she got earlier in the week.

“Perfect! So now how was your date?” she asked again.

“It was really great. We got pizza and then went to the movies.”

“Boring details, I want the juicy stuff. Did he kiss you?”

“Angel!” she laughed at her friends bluntness. “Did you ever think that maybe I don’t kiss on the first date?”

“Oh My God! He so did!”

“Oh My God!” she mocked her. “I think you’ve been living in California too long.”

“Shut up and tell me about it! You’re killing me here.” She said dramatically.

“I didn’t think he was going to cuz’ he was really nervous but when his cousin dropped me off he walked me to my door, and before I went inside he said that he had a really good time and that he likes me a lot and that he wants me to be his girlfriend and then he kissed me.” She could feel her cheeks blushing as she re-lived the moment.

“Aww!” Oh my gosh I hope you said yes…you better have said yes!”

“Don’t worry, I did.” She laughed.

“Aww yay! Now you have a boyfriend too!” she beamed. “I wish we lived in the same state so you could double with me and Frankie.”

“I know! It would be so much fun!”

“Oh hey I gotta go BJ is bringing me to the hair salon. I’m gonna get my hair dyed.”

“Really? You better send me pictures. That’s so cool. I wish I could dye my hair.”

“I’m gonna make it lighter and put some highlights in it. I wanna look good for the awards show.”

“Maybe mom will let me dye my hair.”

“You should so ask! And then we could get matching dresses.” She said excitedly.

“That would be so cute!”

“Ok well I’ll call you later to make plans!” Angel said as she hung up.



Ashley stretched and got out of bed. She went downstairs and made herself a bowl of cereal before joining Denise out on the patio.

“Well good afternoon sleepy head.” Denise laughed as Ashley took a seat at the table.

“Good afternoon.” She said after swallowing a big spoonful of cereal. “Angel woke me up.”

“You’re just like Alex. You’d sleep all day if you could.” She laughed lightly.

“Well sleep is just so good.” She gave a goofy smile. “So Angel told me that they have an extra ticket to the Teen Choice Awards and Aaron said I could have it.”

“Oh well that sounds like fun. When is it?” Denise asked.

“Umm this Friday. I would have to go out to California on Thursday. I know I’d miss school but this sounds like so much fun.” She tried to hype it up hoping Denise would agree.

“I don’t know if I want you missing school this early in the year. You’ve only been in school two weeks, and what about your practice for the show?”

“I’ll only miss two days of school and I can get my work from my teachers early and hand it in before I leave.”

“And what about play practice?” she asked.

“I checked my schedule. My rehearsals this week are only Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. I promise I won’t fall behind or miss any other days.”

“Well I suppose missing two days won’t hurt.”

“Really? I can go?” she asked excitedly. Denise nodded yes. “Thank you thank you thank you!” she jumped up hugging Denise. “You’re the best.”



A few hours later Ashley was sitting at her desk finishing up her weekend homework and trying to get a jump start on some of her work for the upcoming week. She heard her computer chime and looked over seeing a new email awaiting her.

She clicked it open and saw a picture of Angel’s new hair. It was a chestnut brown color with caramel highlights. It was a nice change from her normal dark hair. She picked up her phone and hit the speed dial.


“I love it!” she said as soon as Angel picked up.

“I know! It’s amazing!”

“I’m printing it out right now to show mom. There’s no way she can say no to hair this cute!” she laughed. “I’ll call you back.”




“No.” Denise said as she looked over the picture.

“But why not?” Ashley whined. She had been trying to convince Denise to let her dye her hair for the past five minutes with no avail.

“Because I think you’re too young to be dying your hair. Maybe next year.”

“But I don’t wanna wait I want to do it now!” she huffed.


Denise remained calm despite Ashley's growing tantrum. She knew Ashley always put up a fuss when she didn’t get her way, she had seen it many times before, although she never had to deal with it on her own. Angie was always there to put her in her place. She knew it would make her mad but Denise stood her ground.

“I feel you’re to young and what I say goes. I don’t want you getting your hair dyed this young. You’ll ruin you’re pretty hair.” Denise tried to reason with her.

“But I hate my hair. It’s so boring!” she pouted. She was going to try everything she could think of.

“You didn’t think you’re hair was boring until Angel dyed hers. I think your hair is fine and that’s that.” Denise said firmly.

Ashley pouted some more and crossed her arms. Denise shot her a look letting her know that the argument was over. She turned on her heels and stomped back up the stairs. When she reached her room she slammed her door as hard as she could.

“Keep acting like that and you won’t go to California either.” Denise sighed and yelled up the stairs to her.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*



Ashley arrived in Los Angeles early Thursday morning. She was still mad at Denise for not giving her permission to get her hair dyed, but she knew if she didn’t drop it she would miss the award show.

No one was home at the Carter house who could pick her up and Alex was in rehearsal so she had to take a cab there. When she got dropped off Angel greeted her by the gate and helped her inside.

“I’m so glad you’re here!” she smiled excitedly as she sat down at the kitchen table.

“Me too! I couldn’t wait to get out of my house. I’ve barely said a word to my mom all week. I’m so mad at her.”

“I still don’t see why she won’t let you dye your hair.”

“Because she wants to control my life.” Ashley rolled her eyes. “I should just go ahead and do it anyway.”

“She would get so pissed at you.” Angel warned her.

“I don’t care. What’s she gonna do punish me?” Ashley laughed a little. “I’m doing it, I don’t care what she thinks. It’s what I want.”

“Don’t they have to call her for permission when you use your credit card? Won’t she know if you pay for it?” Angel asked a little worried not wanting her to get in trouble.

“I have the credit card Alex gave me. I’ll just pay for it with that and she won’t know until it’s too late.” Ashley had figured it all out. “Can BJ bring me when she gets home from school?”

“I’m sure she can.” Angel was still a little worried. “Are you sure this will be okay?”

“Don’t worry. She can’t do anything once I’ve got it done. I’m sure once she sees it she’ll like it.”


The girls hung around the house all day until BJ returned home from school. After a little persuasion they convinced her to drive them to the hair salon and the mall after to go shopping for outfits for the show the next day.



“I love it!” Ashley said as she looked in the mirror admiring her new hair.

“It looks awesome on you.” The hairdresser said as she removed the smock from her. “The two of you look like twins now.”

“Perfect! We’re gonna look so awesome tomorrow night!”Angel gleamed.

“You two have fun. Go to the front and they’ll ring you up.” The hairdresser informed her.

“Thanks again!” Ashley said as she walked to the front.


“I hope everything came out as you wanted.” The cashier said as she rang her up.

“Yes. It’s perfect.” Ashley smiled.

“Great. Okay so you got full color with highlights and a haircut with blow out, Correct?”

“Yea.”

“So you’re total comes to $300.00 which includes tip. How would you like to pay for that?”

“Credit.” Ashley replied reaching into her bag and retrieving the card that AJ had given her.

The cashier swiped the card and handed her a receipt.

“Just sign there and you’re good to go.” She said handing her a pen. Ashley signed the receipt and they were on their way.

“Now that the hair is looking fabulous it’s time to upgrade the wardrobe!” she grinned at Angel.

“Hollywood and Highland?” Angel asked.

“But of course!” Ashley teased.

“You two are so spoiled I swear.” BJ rolled her eyes at them.

“Hey we’re paying you to drive us around aren’t we? So let us be spoiled if we want.” Angel said as they climbed back in the car.

“Fine but I’m just dropping you guys off there. I’m not hanging around and watching you waste money. Just call me when you’re done.” She said as she took off for the mall.

Hours later the girls finally arrived back home. They lugged their purchases upstairs to Angel’s room to review what they had bought.

“Okay so first let’s get out our outfits for tomorrow night.” Angel said as she hung up the garment bags and took out the dresses.

The girls had chosen a spaghetti strap dress that came a few inches above the knee. It was a flowy fabric and was really simple but cute. Ashley’s was a pink color and Angel’s was blue. They bought silver heels and matching necklaces and bracelets to go along with it.

“I love it. We’re fashion geniuses.” Ashley laughed looking over the outfits. “We’re gonna look so good tomorrow.”

“Duh!” Angel laughed. “I’m so excited this is going to be so much fun!”

“When’s Aaron coming in?” Ashley asked as she zipped back up the garment bag, not wanting her dress to get messed up.”

“I think either late tonight or tomorrow morning. I’m not really sure.”

“Well he’ll have the two best dates.” She laughed. “Let’s go eat dinner I’m starving.” She said as they both headed downstairs.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was Ashley’s last day in California and the award show had gone off flawlessly. Ashley, Angel and Aaron had so much fun walking the red carpet like James Bond with Aaron in his white suit.

She had seen AJ outside and he almost blew a gasket when he saw what she had done to her hair. He didn’t see it as such a big deal but he knew where Denise stood on it and knew she would be furious that Ashley had disobeyed her. He warned her how mad she would be but she didn’t care. Besides the award show wasn’t broadcasting for another week so she didn’t have to worry about her finding out before she could go home and explain herself…or so she thought.



The girls had just finished eating lunch and were laying out by the pool with some friends when Ashley’s cell phone rang. She looked at the caller ID and saw AJ’s name.

“Hey bro. What’s goin on?” she asked flipping open the phone.

“You’re in troubbbllleeee.” He sang into the phone.

“What are you talking about?” she said confused.

“Mom just called me furious because she saw some pictures from the awards last night online and let’s just say she’s not too happy about your little makeover.” He laughed.

“So. It’s done and over with now. Let her be mad. It’s my hair.” She replied in a snotty tone.

“Yeah. If I were you I’d drop that attitude before you see her because that will just make matters worse.” He warned her.

“Alex, I can make my own decisions and fight my own battles. I don’t need you to tell me how to handle it.” She rolled her eyes. She hated that everyone treated her like a child.

“All I’m saying is she’s really mad that you went behind her back and did this when she told you not to. I’m just warning you for the storm you’re in for when you get home tomorrow. So you better enjoy the sun today cuz’ I have a feeling you won’t be seeing it for a while.” He laughed.

“Whatever Alex. I’ll deal with that later. I’m trying to have fun today.” She sighed not wanting to think about returning back to Florida.

“Okay okay I won’t cramp your style.” He laughed. “I have to get going anyway we have rehearsal soon. Love ya kiddo.”

“Love ya too. Bye.” She hung up and sighed.

“What was that about?” Tiffany, one of Angel’s friends asked.

“Just my annoying brother letting me know that my mom knows that I dyed my hair and that she’s really mad. Like I care?” she laughed.

“I told you she’d be mad.” Angel reminded her.

“I know but I wanted it and she always tells me to go for what you want so I did.” She took a sip of her lemonade “I don’t wanna think about it right now. What’s she gonna do ground me for a few weeks? It’s completely worth it.”

“Well we all love it.” Melanie, the other girl hanging out with them chimed in.

“Thanks. Now that’s enough of that let’s get back to tanning.” She said leaning back in her chair and turning the music back up.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The long weekend had come to an end and it was time for Ashley to return home to Orlando. She knew she would be in for it when she got back for disobeying Denise on the matters of her hair, but she didn’t care. She did it to show her that she could and would do whatever she wanted.


When she finally landed in Orlando Denise and Tony were waiting for her at the airport. She was never so relieved to see Tony in her life. She knew that Denise wouldn’t argue in front of him.

“Hey Ashley! You look great!” Tony greeted her with a hug. “Did you do something to your hair? It looks wonderful.”

Denise shot him a look. Obviously he wasn’t up to speed on the whole hair calamity.

“Let’s get going.” Denise said firmly as Tony took Ashley’s bag for her and they made there way to the car.


The car ride home was silent. Tony had gotten the hint from the death glare he received from Denise that the hair was not a good topic. Ashley was hoping that he would come inside to buy her more time but he just helped her bring her bag inside and then left. He knew better then to stick around when Denise was angry.


“In the living room, now. Sit on the couch and don’t speak until I come in there.” Denise said sternly no more then a second after Tony had walked out the door.


Ashley knew better then to test her patience now so she did as she was told. She walked into the living room and took a seat on the love seat grabbing onto a pillow nervously waiting for Denise to come in.


“So what exactly were you thinking when you did this?” Denise asked as she walked in and took a seat across from Ashley. The thing that always worried Ashley was how calm Denise stayed when she was reprimanding you. She never yelled so you couldn’t judge just how mad she was.

Ashley took a deep breath and looked down at her feet. “I don’t know.” She said quietly.

“Look at me when I’m speaking to you.” Denise instructed her firmly. Ashley looked up at her biting her lip nervously. “Did you think that I wasn’t going to be mad?”

“No, I just wanted it and I thought maybe once you saw it you’d like it.”

“It has nothing to do with me liking it or not Ashley. The fact of the matter is you deliberately went behind my back and did something that I told you not to do. You didn’t like my answer so you decided to do what you wanted anyway.”

“But it wasn’t fair! I’m 13 years old I’m not a little baby!” she said a little frustrated.

“Life isn’t fair. There are always going to be times that you cant do or get everything you want and you have to learn to accept that or you’ll never get anywhere in life.” Denise sighed. “The bottom line is you were wrong and I think you know you were wrong. Am I right?”

“Yes.” Ashley gave in knowing she wouldn’t win the battle. She knew from the beginning doing what she wanted would come with consequences so now it was time to face the music.

“You’re grounded for two weeks. Extra chores and restricted phone, computer and TV privileges. No friends over and you are to come home right after play practice.”

“How restricted is restricted?” she asked.

“I’ll decide that as time goes on. For now thirty minutes a day. Now go upstairs and get ready for bed. You have school in the morning.” She said getting up.

“Mom?” Ashley asked before she left the room.

“What?” Denise turned back around.

“I’m sorry.” She said giving her a hug.

“It’s okay. Just don’t do it again or the punishment will be more severe.” Denise warned her.

Ashley just nodded and retreated upstairs to shower and go to bed. She informed Angel about her punishment and thought about her decision as she lay in bed that night and was happy that she went against Denise’s wishes. She loved her new hair and was sure everyone at school would too.

She didn’t care too much about her punishment, she still got to see Matt all day at school and spend time with him at play practice. Two weeks would go by in no time and she would still have won the battle. She fell asleep with a smile on her face anticipating everyone’s thoughts on her hair the next day.
Chapter 20 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
The drama starts to unfold...
The months seemed to fly by and Ashley’s play was right around the corner.

Thanksgiving had just passed and as always AJ had found an excuse to not be there. She wanted to make sure there was no way he could back out of her play. She had been bugging him for the past month to make sure he would come. Now that the play was only a week away she knew it was crunch time. She pulled out her cell phone and dialed his number hoping he would pick up.


“Speak.” He said picking up after about three rings.

“Hey Alex. Just checking in seeing how your rehearsals are going.”

“And to make sure I’m still coming this weekend?” he laughed. “I told you a million times already that I’m going.”

“I know but I just wanna make sure you don’t forget.”

“I already have my plane ticket and we have the weekend off so no need to worry. I promise you that I’ll be there no matter what.”

“Ok just you know how important this is to me.”

“Ash, I promised that I would be there. I wouldn’t let you down like that. I know this is important.” She could hear the frustration growing in his voice.

“I know. I’m sorry.” She sighed. As much as he pushed his promises she wouldn’t believe it till she saw it. He had been breaking promises a lot lately. She didn’t want to aggravate him so she dropped it. “Are you at rehearsal?”

“Yea we just got a little break. Aren’t you supposed to be in school?” he asked noticing the time.

“Yea but we have dress rehearsal all week so I get out of class early. We’re having lunch then I have to rehearse.” She informed him. “Are all the guys there with you right now?”

“Just Rok and Nick. Why?”

“Can I talk to Brian?” she asked.

“Oh I see how it is, just dropping me for your golden boy.” He teased.

“Oh shut up.” She laughed. “Just put him on the phone.”

“Alright hold on.” He said as she heard him calling for Brian.


“Hidey Ho!” Brian said in a high-pitched southern voice. Ashley couldn’t’ help but laugh.

“Hey Brian.”

“What’s up chicken butt?”

“I know you got mad at me last time for not telling you about the memorial thing so I wanted to make sure that you knew about my play this weekend. Alex said you guys have off so I figured I might as well tell you.”

“Yeah I heard AJ say something about that. I can’t make any promises cuz’ I might have to go somewhere with Leighanne but I’ll try and come. When exactly is the show?” he asked.

“It’s on Saturday night.”

“Ok well like I said I can’t make any promises but I will try.”

“Awesome! Well I hope I see you there! Have fun at rehearsal I have to finish lunch before I get in trouble.”

“Ok. Bye sweetie maybe I’ll see you this weekend.” He said hanging up.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Saturday rolled around quickly and the night of the play had finally arrived. Ashley would be at school all day until the play started. AJ had flown in the night before with Angel. Ashley was a little upset because Brian had called and said that he wouldn’t be able to make it. What she didn’t know was that he and Leighanne were coming to surprise her.

They arrived at the house just around noon. Denise greeted them at the door with a big smile.

“I’m so glad that you two could make it!” she hugged them both as they came inside.

“I had an audition in New York but it got postponed. We figured it would be more fun to surprise Ashley.” Leighanne smiled.

“I felt so bad lying to her.” Brian chuckled. “She sounded so upset that we couldn’t make it.”

“Well she’ll be ecstatic. You know where everything is. So make yourselves at home.”

“Thanks mom.” Brian smiled and kissed her on the cheek.

"I'm gonna go freshen up." Leighanne smiled leaving the two.

“Where’s AJ at?” Brian asked

“He’s visiting with some friends. I told him we had to be at the school by 5:00 so I pray that he shows up on time.”

“I’m sure he’ll be there. He knows how much this means to her.” Brian reassured her.

“We’ll that hasn’t stopped him recently. He always seems to find a way to loose track of time. I swear I don’t know what has gotten into that boy lately. Ever since he moved to California he’s been like this. Missing out on family events, slacking off, and breaking promises. I wish he would just come to me and tell me what’s going on but he’s so secluded.” She frowned.

“Don’t worry mom. Just pray for him that’s all you can do and hope that whatever he is going threw he’ll choose to come to you or to someone else to talk about it.”

“I just worry for him when I’m not around.” She sighed. “I just hope for Ashley’s sake he comes threw for her tonight. I don’t know how much more of this she can take from him.”

“That’s partially why we wanted to come. If he decides to be a no show hopefully the surprise of having Leighanne and I here will counter that.” He said taking a seat out by the pool. “But let’s not think the worst. Let’s just hope that all goes off well tonight and that he’ll make it.”

“You’re right. We’re all going to have a great time tonight and Ashley will do fantastic.” Denise smiled and returned back in the house to make some lunch for everyone.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AJ glanced at the clock on the wall. It was already 4:00. He had an hour before he had to get over to the school and he wanted to freshen up. He groaned pulling back the covers and sitting up in the bed.

He was about to get up when the girl lying next to him wrapped her arms around him from behind. She kissed the back of his neck as she ran her nails over his chest.

“What’s the rush baby?” she whispered seductively in his ear. “We were just getting warmed up.”

“I have somewhere to go.” He said dryly as he pulled her arms off him.

“What you have someone else to go fuck?” she pouted. “You promised me that this weekend would be all about me.”

“Alana you know it’s not like that. I told you I had somewhere to go tonight. I’ll be back later and then we can get back down to business.” He flashed her a grin.

“But baby I want you now.” She grabbed the bottle of whiskey off the nightstand and poured herself another shot and then one for him. “Come on baby just think of all the crazy fun we had last time.” She hovered the shot in front of his face.

“Babe…” he tried to continue but she had already begun trailing his neck with kisses. He groaned as he took the shot from her hand and downed it. He took a second but regained his control. “If this wasn’t important you know I wouldn’t leave you.” He tried to reason with her.

“More important then me?” she pouted.

“Nothing’s more important then you.” He rolled his eyes in his mind. He was spreading the icing on thick. If she weren’t so good in bed he would have been out the door already.

“Then prove it to me.” She grinned pushing him back down on the bed and straddling his hips. “Besides I thought after we had our little fun I’d invite Julie and Steph over again. You know how much fun that was last time.”

‘Three girls or a stupid play?’ AJ asked to himself.

He didn’t even have to think more then two seconds about that one. He picked the phone up off the receiver and handed it to her. “Make that call.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Denise looked at her watch as they sat in their seats awaiting the beginning of the show. It was 5:45 and the show was starting in 15 minutes.

She sighed as she called his cell phone one more time and was directed right to his voice mail yet again. She didn’t bother leaving a message she just turned off her phone and put it away.

“I can’t believe he’s doing this to her again.” Denise sighed.

“He needs to stop promising her things when he knows he’s not gonna do it.” Brian shook his head.

“I just don’t understand what’s going threw his head. He knew this was important to her.”

“Ashley’s gonna be really upset.” Angel chimed in.

“Well she has all of us here so we just have to make sure to not make a big deal out of it.” Tony told them.

“I just don’t want the party to be ruined for her. I know she’ll try and play it off like it doesn’t bother her I just hope she doesn’t let it ruin her night.”

Denise had agreed to hold the cast party at the house that night since they had the most space. Ashley was excited to have everyone over and Denise didn’t want to ruin the fun.

“We’ll all make sure she has a good time don’t worry sweetheart.” Tony squeezed her hand reassuringly.

The lights faded letting everyone know that the show was about to begin. Denise put all her concerns to the side knowing she had to just enjoy herself and Ashley’s performance.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The show had been amazing. Everyone did such a good job and everyone in the audience seemed to enjoy it. Denise had told Ashley they would meet her outside after the show to try and stay away from the crowds. She had put together most of her stuff during intermission so she was out fairly quick.

She scanned the group as she approached and only saw Denise, Tony and Angel. She sighed as she looked around a little more and didn’t see AJ anywhere in sight. She didn’t notice Brian and Leighanne hiding off to the side waiting to surprise her. He saw her smile fade when she couldn’t find AJ. As she approached the group she planted a smile on her face and faked happiness the best she could.

“Hey guys!” she greeted them “What did you think of the show?”

“You were awesome!” Angel smiled hugging her.

“You did amazing Ashley.” Tony smiled. “Here let me take those for you.” He grabbed her bags from her.

“I’m so proud of you!” Denise hugged her handing her a bouquet of flowers.

“Thanks.” She smiled back at all of them.

Brian and Leighanne snuck out from behind her and Brian grabbed her giving her a big hug lifting her off the ground.

“Surprise!” he yelled putting her down.

She turned around and her eyes lit up as she saw them.

“What are you guys doing here? I thought you had an audition.” She asked Leighanne.

“It was postponed so we figured we’d surprise you.” She smiled hugging her.

“I’m so happy that you guys came!” she hugged Brian again.

“Okay so what’s happening with the party?” Denise asked. “Are you going to come home with us now or get ready at Marissa’s house?”

“They’re coming with us now to get ready at our house.” She said looking for them. “It’s just Marissa coming now and Matt I think. Everyone else should be there soon.”

“Ok, so why don’t you get them so we can make sure everything is set up at the house by the time everyone gets there.”

“Sounds good.”


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Ashley tried to keep her spirits up throughout the party. She hadn’t said one word about AJ and no one wanted to be the first to bring it up. It was getting late and most people had started to head home. Brian finally saw Ashley by herself and decided to grab her while he could.

“Are you busy?” he asked as he walked over.

“No, not really. Just taking a little break from dancing.” She laughed a little. “I’m starting to get tired, it’s been a long day.”

“Can we go out by the pool and talk for a minute?” the pool had been off limits to the party so it would be quiet.

“Yea sure.” She said as they headed out there. They took a seat and Ashley just stared down at her hands waiting for her to say something.

“So you did a really good job tonight. “ he smiled taking a seat.

“Thanks.” She looked up at him a little.

“So what’s this I hear about you and your little friend Matt?” he teased trying to break the ice.

“What about him?” she could feel her cheeks flushing.
“Since when do you have a boyfriend?”

“Since like August.” She laughed a little. “Where have you been B?” she teased.

“Hey you’re the one who keeps me out of the loop!”

“So I know you didn’t bring me out here to talk about Matt so spit it out.”

“Well I couldn’t help but notice that a certain someone wasn’t present tonight.”

She knew that’s what he brought her outside to talk about AJ. He was the only one with the guts enough to bring it up.

“Yea.” She frowned a little. “I kind of expected it.”

“I saw that you were upset when you didn’t see him. Do you wanna talk about it?”

“What’s there to talk about?” she bit her lip not wanting to get too emotional. “Something obviously came up. I can’t do anything about that.”

“It’s okay to be upset about it. I know he let you down.” He placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“I kinda got used to it.” She sighed. “Besides I have you and everyone else who cares about me here.”

“He cares about you Ash, he just…I don’t even know.” He took a deep breath. “I know you really don’t wanna talk about it but just know that Leighanne and I are always there for you if you need someone to talk to. Okay?”

“I know B.” she smiled and hugged him. “Thanks.”

“No problem sweetie.” He hugged her back and they returned to the party.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


It was Sunday afternoon and everyone had headed back to California. Tony and Denise had gone out to lunch but Ashley decided to stay home and relax. She was still tired from the previous day.


Ashley was sitting on the couch in the living room watching some TV when she heard the front door open. She didn’t think Denise would be back yet but was surprised when she saw AJ walking threw the door. She thought he would have headed back to LA already.

He walked in the living room and took a seat next to her on the couch smiling at her. She just looked at him with a stone face.

“What’s up kiddo?” he asked as if nothing was wrong.
She couldn’t believe he was just playing it off like nothing happened.

She turned her head away from him and rolled her eyes getting up from the couch and headed upstairs to her room. He sighed and followed her upstairs.

“I didn’t say you could come in.” she said coldly from her desk.

“What’s up with you? Why are you giving me the cold shoulder?”

She looked at him in disbelief.

“Alex what happened to you the other night? You promised me you’d be at my show.”

“I got busy. Things come up, you know how it is.”

“No, I don’t. So why don’t you fill me in.”

“Listen Ash, something just came up and I had to be somewhere else. It’s no big deal.”

“Maybe not to you but to me it is. It seems like something’s always coming up these days.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means I’m tired of your excuses. If you didn’t wanna come all you had to do was say so.”

“Yeah and that would go over so well with you.”

“Well it’s better then lying to me and just not showing up anyway. I always support you in everything you do and you can’t show up for me one time.”

“It’s not just one time. Everyone always expects me to be there for them. Did you ever think that I might have better things to do?”

“Are you ever hearing what you’re saying? You used to care about your family, now all you care about is yourself. What happened to you?”

“I got a life, and in case you haven’t realized it doesn’t revolve around you, so why don’t you just do me a favor and stay out of it.”

“You know you always said that you’d never be like your dad but take a good look in the mirror Alex because you’re just like him.”

She knew how to push his buttons and she just hit the nail right on the head.

“I’ll never be like him. Take that back.” he yelled angrily.

“You are just like him. Ditching out on your family, staying out all night, only doing what’s best for you. You and him are the same person…the truth hurts doesn’t it.”

“You’re just an ungrateful bitch. Look at how much I’ve don’t for you and this is how you thank me? Talking to me like this?”

“You think this is what I care about Alex? Money, a big house, no! All I ever wanted was to have you around. I feel like I don’t even know you anymore. What happened to Alex? My cousin…my big brother. The one that was always there for me when I needed him? I want that Alex back…”

“Well he’s gone and if you can’t accept me for who I am then I don’t need you.”

“Fine. You don’t need me then I’m gone, but don’t expect me to come back.”

She said it simply but firmly and she meant it. If he didn’t want her to be part of his life then she’d remove herself from it for good.
Chapter 21 by AshleyNicoleFans
Denise put the last few items in her suitcase before closing it up. She double-checked her purse for everything she would need and brought her bag downstairs.

Ashley was sitting in the living room with Angel and Tony talking when Denise came in.

“Got everything together?” Tony asked looking up at her.

“I believe so.” She smiled turning her attention to the two girls. “Are you sure you’ll be ok here for the night? Maybe I should ask Erin to stay with you until tomorrow when Alex comes.”

“Mom, we don’t need a baby sitter, it’s just one night. I don’t even know why Alex has to come. We can take care of ourselves.” she groaned.

“I’m not leaving two 13 year old girls home alone for ten days Ashley. That’s insane and illegal.” She reminded her. “We already discussed this. Whatever has been going on between you and Alex these past few months needs to stop. He’s here recording for the week and you two need to work out your differences.”

“Fine. When is he getting here?” she asked un-amused.

“Sometime tomorrow. Now you call me when you get home from school tomorrow to let me know how everything is going and have fun on your break. I’ll see you next Sunday.” She kissed the two girls goodbye as Tony helped her move her bags to his car.

“Bye mom, you two have fun in Key West…and behave.” She grinned.

“Take your own advice.” Denise hugged her as she got in the car.

Ashley and Angel waved from the driveway as they pulled off.

“Call in the troops.” Angel laughed as Ashley reached for her cell phone.

“Hey guys, coast is clear.” She said simply then hung up.” They’re on their way.”

Both girls walked back inside to change before Ashley’s friends arrived.

They had debated about having a big party at first but decided on just having the normal gang over for a big sleepover.

“So are any of these other guys cute?” Angel asked as they set out chips and soda in the movie room. “Now that Jordan and I broke up I can be on the prowl again.”

“What ever happened to Frankie?” Ashley laughed.

“That was over like 3 weeks later. He was such a jerk.” She rolled her eyes.

“What about Jordan?”

“I told you. He was too needy. He wanted me to stay home this whole week because he’d miss me too much so I told him to miss me for good.” Ashley couldn’t help but laugh at her friend.

“You would probably like Jason.” Ashley finally answered her question. “He’s Matt’s neighbor. He’s got dark hair and green eyes and he’s in high school.”

“You know I like them older.” Angel laughed. “So are you excited that Matt is staying over?”

“I guess.” She looked at her funny. “There’s not much to be excited about.”

“You guys have been dating for like six months now…have you even hooked up with him?” she grinned at her.

“Well what do you consider hooking up?” She asked nervously.

“Not like sex or anything loser.” Angel laughed. “I’m just talking about like more then just kissing.”

“He’s tried. I just like I dunno, I get nervous.” She blushed. “I dunno what the heck I’m doing.”

“You just have to go with the flow.” Angel smiled. “Just do what feels right, believe me it just comes naturally if you let it.”

“I can’t stress about it. I just wanna have fun tonight before the big bad brother comes to ruin it all.”

“You still haven’t talked to him since the fight?”

“He said he wanted me out of his life and he got his wish. It’s not like he’s tried to apologize.”

“Well maybe things will work themselves out while he’s here. It’s not like he can ignore you when you’re in the same house.”

“Yea we’ll see.” Ashley sighed as the buzzer rang for the front gate. Ashley buzzed everyone in and greeted them at the door.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Ok so you guys were in charge of the movies…what did you get?” she asked looking over at Matt and Jason after everyone had said their hello’s and moved into the movie room.

“I Know What You Did Last Summer, Halloween H20 and Final Destination.” Jason grinned.

“Of course you had to get all scary movies.” Marissa rolled her eyes.

“Don’t worry ladies, we’re here to protect you.” David chimed in grinning at Marissa.

“Yea until you get scared yourselves and scream like little girls.” Kim teased.

“Hey, we were like 7.” Matt defended them.

The girls just laughed rolling their eyes.

“So what are we watching first?” Angel asked taking a seat next to Jason to look threw the movies.

“How’s about Halloween?” Ashley suggested.

“Sounds good to me.” They all agreed.

Ashley took the movie and set it up then joined everyone else taking a seat next to Matt as she started the movie.


Many screams and jumps later the movie had come to an end. Ashley peeled herself away from Matt’s shoulder, where she had been hiding her eyes throughout most of the movie, and switched off the screen.

“I hate Michael Myers.” Kelly laughed.“He’s so freaky.”

“That’s the point.” Steve teased.

“So what’s next?” Marissa asked.

“How’s about some pizza?” Ashley laughed. “I need a break from being scared.”

“Food!” all the guys chimed in as they made their way to the kitchen.



They all sat around the pool chowing down on their pizza and talking about the things they could do over their break when Ashley interrupted them.

“So I really don’t wanna go to school tomorrow. I think vacation should start now.” She laughed.

“I don’t think anyone really wants to go babe.” Matt laughed.

“So then we shouldn’t go.” She said simply.

“Wait am I hearing this right? Are you, little miss perfect, actually suggesting you guys cut school tomorrow?” Jason asked with a shocked expression. He always teased Ashley or never wanting to do anything that could get her in trouble.

“It’s not like we’d miss anything important.” She laughed. “and yes I am suggesting it, don’t be fooled by this sweet face, I told you I’m not always good.”

“I dunno…” Kelly said timidly.

“Yea, I don’t wanna get grounded over break.” Kimberly chimed in.

“Well I’m staying home and anyone else who wants to can have fun with me here.” She grinned.

“I’m in. Our mom's out of town anyway.” Matt smiled at her.

“Yea me too.” Marissa and David said.

“I don’t have school so I’m in.” Jason laughed.

“What about you guys?” Matt asked Steven and Jesse.

“I’m out. I’m already on probation, if I get caught cutting that’s automatic suspension.” Jesse said.

“My mom would just kill me.” Steven laughed.

“Well you party poopers are gonna miss out on some fun but it’s ok.” Ashley laughed. “How’s about we go watch another movie now.”

“I wanna watch Final Destination.” Marissa said as they reconvened in the movie room. “I never got to see it when it came out.”

“Me either.” Angel said handing it to Ashley.

Ashley put the movie in and again took a seat next to Matt on the couches.

She watched, her eyes glued to the screen, as the first 20 minutes of the movie unfolded into a horrific plane crash. She didn’t even notice the tears that had begun to fall down her cheeks. Matt snapped her out of her trance.

“Ash are you ok?” he looked over at her tear stained face.

She just shook her head ‘no’ and got up quickly leaving the room.

Angel looked over at Ashley and realized what happened. She got up to go after her but Matt stopped her.

“You stay. I’ll see what’s wrong.” He assured her but Angel followed him anyway. They found Ashley sitting on the top of the stairs crying.

“Ash, I’m sorry I didn’t know that was in the movie.” Angel sat down next to her putting an arm around her.

“I’m sorry, but I’m lost…maybe I should just let you two talk.” Matt turned to walk away.

“No stay.” Ashley grabbed his arm. “I’m sorry, I should explain.”

She looked over at Angel. “Thanks for coming to see if I was ok but you shouldn’t miss the movie. I need to talk to Matt anyway.”

“Ok but if you need me come get me.” She hugged her before going downstairs.

Ashley took Matt’s hand and led him into the living room. She sat down and wiped her eyes that were still filled with tears and smiled at him a little.

“So I probably look like some crazy psycho for high tailing it out of some random movie huh?”

“I wouldn’t say crazy psycho maybe just like weirdo?” he teased. She shoved him playfully. “No but really. What’s wrong? Why did that movie freak you out so much?”

Ashley took a deep breath. She knew she couldn’t hide her secret forever and she knew he would understand.

“There are few things about me that I haven’t been completely honest about with everyone…It’s nothing major but just things.” Matt looked at her confused. “You know how I told you that Denise was my mom?”

Matt nodded and she continued.

“Well my mom, my real mom…she died about a year and a half ago.” Matt’s eyes got wide. “She died in a plane crash…that big one in Orlando, I dunno if you ever saw anything on it and I know that I shouldn’t have lied to you and I just didn’t want anyone feeling sorry for me and…”

“Ash, it’s ok. I understand, I wouldn’t have known how to tell me either.” Matt cut her off on her rambling spree giving her a hug. “I just wish I would have known. I would have never picked that movie. I’m sorry.”

“It’s ok, really.” She half smiled. “I just try not to think about it that much and that really just hit the nail on the head ya’know?”

Matt leaned in and kissed her softly. “Why don’t we just ditch out on the rest of the movie and go lay down. It’s been a crazy day.

“I’d like that.” She smiled a little more.

“You go upstairs and change and I’ll let the others know that we’re calling it a night.” He said getting up from the couch.

“Can you ask Angel to explain what’s going on to them…I’m sure they think I’m crazy for just running out.”

“No problem.” He kissed her once more and headed down to the others.


Ashley went upstairs and quickly changed into shorts and a t-shirt and pulled down the covers on her bed. Matt came in a few minutes later already changed into sweatpants and a wife beater.

“All set for bed?” he asked putting his bag down.

“I just gotta wash my face…make yourself comfortable.” She smiled walking into her bathroom.

She came back out moments later and joined Matt in her bed snuggling close to him.

“Thanks for ditching on the movie with me.” She kissed him and switched on the TV then shut off the lamp by her bed.

“Alone time with you is better then any movie.” He smiled.

“Well aren’t you just Mr. Smooth?” she teased.

“Hey when you got it, you got it.” He grinned jokingly.

“You wish.” She laughed closing her eyes. “Just go to sleep loser.”


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Wake up love birds!” Angel yelled smacking Ashley in the head with a pillow.

“What the hell?” she opened her eyes to find Angel and Marissa standing at the edge of her bed.

“We were nice enough to get up and make breakfast and let you, the host, sleep in but now its time to get up and begin our fun day of cutting school.” Marissa laughed.

Ashley glanced at the clock and saw it was already 10:30. She shook Matt to wake him. With his arm draped across her she couldn’t get up until he did. He groaned and opened his eyes smiling at her threw tired eyes.

“Morning.” He turned over and sat up finally noticing his sister and Angel grinning at him. “Oh hi guys.”

“Get up lazy bums.” Marissa said as she headed toward the door. “Five minutes you’re expected downstairs for breakfast.

“Sleep good?” Ashley smiled at him as she got out of bed.

“Yea I had a really comfortable pillow.” He teased tapping her shoulder.

“Glad I could be of some use.” She grabbed a bathing suit and shorts out of her dresser and headed into the bathroom to change. “Ok breakfast time.”


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


It was a few hours later and everyone was having fun out by the pool. Ashley was laying on a lounge chair when Matt jumped out of the pool and walked over to her shaking his hair out on her.

“Hey!” she squealed as the water hit her.

“Sorry.” He grinned evilly. “Why don’t you come in the pool with me?”

“The waters cold.” She tossed a towel at him.

“Then come in the hot tub with me. I’ll keep you warm.” He grinned pulling her up off the chair and towards the hot tub.

“I don’t wanna go in the water.” She tried to pull back.

“Please.” He smiled at her. She could never resist his smile it was too cute.

“Damn you and that smile.” She laughed and rolled her eyes as she got in the hot tub, Matt following.

“See the waters hot.”

“Duh that’s why they call it a hot tub.” She laughed splashing him.

“Hey!” he splashed her back. They splashed back and forth at each other a little more before Matt pulled her over to his side and began tickling her sides.

“Matt! Stop!” she squealed laughing.

“Can I have a kiss?” he laughed still tickling her. By now she was laughing so hard she could barely breathe so she nodded yes.

He grinned and stopped tickling her turning her face towards his he kissed her deeply. Ashley’s mind was racing, each time he kissed her she felt more desire to keep kissing him. They were engaged in some intense lip locking when Matt got hit on the head with something. He pulled away from her and looked around seeing a beach ball floating in the hot tub. He turned back to see Jason grinning at them.

“Get a room would you?” he laughed. “No one wants to watch you two make out.”

“You’re such an ass.” Matt rolled his eyes.

Ashley could feel her cheeks flush in embarrassment. She had forgotten everyone else was around. She got up from Matt’s lap and got out of the hot tub wrapping a towel around her self. Matt followed her out of the hot tub grabbing a towel him self.

“Sorry. You know he can be a jerk sometimes.” Matt smiled half heartedly at her.

Ashley ignored him and grabbed his hand leading him towards the house.

“Come inside with me?” she smiled back at him.

“Ok...” He raised an eye brow at her in question.

“Just come inside with me.”

Everyone else looked off as the two went inside.

“When I said get a room I didn’t think she’d take my advice.” Jason laughed.

Ashley kept a hold of Matt’s hand as she led him upstairs and into her room. She shut the door behind her and turned back to him with a bashful smile...



*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


“No, I just got in.” AJ said as he got his luggage and walked to the taxi station. “I dunno, I have to go home first I guess. I got stuck watching my little sister for the week.”

He listened to the person on the other end then continued as he got into a car and gave them his information.

“No my house is pretty much off limits this week…I know it sucks but it’s not like I can just get rid of her.” He laughed.

“Babe I know you wanted to see me but she has the upper hand. I mess this shit up she squeals and I’m screwed. I don’t need to be hearing shit from the world about how I can’t do anything right.”

He groaned as the girl complained. “I know babe but like I said me and my sister aren’t really on good terms. She’s just waiting for me to mess up so that she can use it against me.”


The car pulled up in front of the house and AJ paid retrieving his bags from the trunk.


“Listen babe, I just got home. I’ll try and stop by later but I have the house to myself for a while before the terror gets home from school. Jetlag is a bitch and I’m tired as hell. I’m just gonna go relax and then I’ll call you and we’ll figure shit out.“ he hung up and phone and made his way into the not so empty house.
End Notes:
gotta love cliff hangers he he...
Chapter 22 by AshleyNicoleFans
“Can we talk for a second?” Ashley said making her way over to her bed and taking a seat at the edge.

“Umm sure.” Matt looked at her confused as he sat down.

“Matt, I really like you and…” she struggled to figure out what she was trying to say.

“You’re not breaking up with me are you? Cuz’ if I did something I’m sorry.” He quickly blurted out his eyes showing his nervousness.

“What? No!” Ashley couldn’t help but to laugh a little. “I said I really like you I wouldn’t break up with you.”

She could see the relief in his eyes and she smiled a little more.

“I really don’t know what I’m trying to say…” she took a moment to think getting up from her spot on the bed she began pacing. “It’s just like when we kiss I get all these feelings that I can’t explain and it makes me not want to stop, but it confuses me cuz’ I have no clue what I’m doing. I know it might make me sound like a complete dork but you’re the first guy I ever even kissed and I never really liked someone the way that I like you…and stop me when any of this is making sense.”

Now it was Matt’s turn to laugh a little. Anytime Ashley didn’t quite know what to say she went off on a tangent rambling everything as fast as she could. He grabbed her arm to stop her pacing and pulled her back to her previous spot.

“I’m not sure if I catch everything that you’re getting at but I know how you feel. I can’t explain all of my feelings either but all I know is that I like them and I like you…a lot.”

Ashley leaned in and kissed him fully on the lips. She pulled away smiling at him. He was a bit taken back at first because she had never been the one to make the first move, but he found it strangely attractive.

He leaned in once more kissing her. Ashley wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned back into the bed pulling him down with her. He hesitated for a second pulling away from this kiss.

“Ash, what are we doing?” he looked at her questionably.

“I dunno, but let’s just see where kissing takes us…just do what feels right.” She said before pulling him back into a kiss.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

AJ walked in the house and dropped his bags at the front door. He was too lazy to bring them up to his room yet. He was making his way to the kitchen to grab a drink when he heard music and laughter coming from the pool area.

Forgetting about the drink he made his way outside, curious to see who was there. He peered threw the sliding glass doors to find two girls engaged in a game of chicken. Not recognizing Angel he made his way outside.

“Excuse me but what exactly are you doing in my house?” he said in almost a yell.

“Umm hi AJ.” Angel froze atop Jason’s shoulders.

“Oh, sorry Angel. I didn’t recognize you from behind. What are you guys doing out here? No one was supposed to be home.”

Marissa looked at him nervously knowing their cover had been blown.

“Umm well I was umm bored here alone so I had some friends come over.” She tried to lie.

“I thought my mom had got permission for you to go to school with Ashley today.” He crossed his arms staring at her sternly.

“Well yea see what had happened was we were gonna go but then…” Angel struggled to lie.

“Ashley didn’t feel good so she stayed home.” Jason threw in.

“Oh she’s not feeling good?” AJ looked at them and rolled his eyes knowing they were lying.

“Yea. She was really sick and so we came over to take care of her.” Marissa threw in.

“Well if she’s sick I should go check on her. You know make sure she doesn’t need to go to the doctor or anything like that. Where is she exactly?”

“Oh she’s up in her room with…” David started to say stupidly but Marissa cut him off sending him the glare of death.

“What he meant to say was that she went upstairs to take a nap so that she would feel better when you got here.” She attempted to recover.

“Oh well I think I’m gonna go up there and check on her. Make sure she doesn’t need anything.” He turned around waiting for them to stop him.

“No!” they all screamed in unison. AJ turned back around, his un-amused look begging for them to continue on.

“She really needs her rest.” Angel was so nervous she thought she would puke.

“Oh I won’t wake her just gonna check up on her.” He turned to walk back in the house. Before he shut the door he turned back towards them. “Go back to enjoying yourselves while you can.”

“We’re dead.” Marissa said as soon as he was out of sight.

“We’re dead? Ashley is gonna be killed. She’s upstairs with your brother right now and I can guarantee you they’re not just making small talk.” Angel said frantically.

“Matt is so screwed.” David said climbing out of the pool. “If he was that mad at us imagine how mad he’s gonna be when he finds the two of them together doing god know what.”

“At least he’ll die a happy man.” Jason laughed a little.

“He’s gonna kill my brother! This is no time to joke.” Marissa smacked Jason.

They peaked their heads threw the sliding glass door as they watched AJ head toward the stairs knowing there was nothing they could do at this point.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Ashley and Matt were engaged in some heavy lip locking their bodies pressed close together. Matt let his hands roam freely over her body as he began kissing her neck.

AJ ascended the steps two at a time just waiting to see what kind out trouble she would be in.

Matt kissed lower tracing the outline of her bikini top as Ashley ran her hand threw his hair. The door swung open and there stood AJ on the other side furious.

“What in the hell is going on in here?” he yelled startling Matt so much he almost jumped off the bed.
Ashley stared at AJ in complete shock, she hadn’t expected him home this early and she certainly hadn’t expected him to catch her in her room with Matt.

“You, downstairs.” He pointed to Matt who hightailed it out of the room fast. “And just what the hell do you think you were doing?” he stared at Ashley as if she had 6 heads.

“Exactly what it looked like, making out with my boyfriend.” She crossed her arms and met his eyes staring back at him. She wasn’t intimidated by him at this point.

“Making out? No, you two were practically having sex with your clothes on.” He yelled at her.

“It’s not like we were really having sex or anything we were just kissing!”

“Ashley you were on a bed practically half naked in a bikini with a boy all over you…I don’t consider that nothing.” He paced the room furious. “If I wouldn’t have come in when I did how much further would it have gone Ashley? Would you have had sex with him? Do you even know anything about that shit?”

“What I do with my boy friend is none of your business. I’m staying out of your life so you can gladly stay out of mine.” She shot back.

“Oh it’s none of my business? I’m sure mom would love to hear the little predicament I caught you in…oh and how about the fact that it’s only 2:00. Last time I checked you were still supposed to be in school.” He pulled his cell phone out of his pocket.

“No! You can’t!” she yelled nervously trying 2 grab the phone away from him. He held it high out of her reach.

“Oh I can’t? Cuz’ all I have to do is press this one little number right here and she’s on the phone.”

“Please I’ll do anything.” Ashley looked at him with pleading eyes.

AJ thought for a second and then a light bulb went off in his head.

“You know what...I’m sure we can work something out…” he put his phone back in his pocket.

“What do you want?” she sighed knowing this was the only way out.

“The house to myself for the week.” He grinned knowing the ball was back in his court now.

“What? Where am I supposed to go then?” she looked at him like he was insane.

“I don’t care, figure it out. Go stay with your boyfriend for all I care. I just want the house to myself.”

“You can’t just kick me out of the house for a week Alex. It’s my house too!” she looked at him as if he had gone insane.

“Oh really. Ok have it your way then.” He pulled his phone back out of his pocket and pressed the speed dial button.

“You wouldn’t.”

“Hey mom!” he said as Denise picked up the phone.

Ashley’s eyes grew huge. She couldn’t get in trouble Denise would ground her for a year.

“Ok ok I’ll get out!” she mouthed to him quietly before he could get her in trouble.

“Just wanted to let you know that I’m at the house. Ashley should be home from school soon.” He smirked at her. “Yea we’ll find a way to work out our differences. Love you too mom.” He hung up the phone.

“You know I hate you so much rite now.” She rolled her eyes at him and walked out of the room.

“One more thing.” He called to her as she turned back around glaring at him. “Make sure your home by Saturday afternoon. The house is gonna need some cleaning. Gotta make things pretty for mom.”

“No way!” she yelled at him. “I’m not cleaning up after you and your stupid friends.”

“Oh you’re not?” he asked reaching for his phone again.

“You’re such an ass!” she yelled stomping down the stairs.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” He yelled back to her.


Ashley stormed outside to the pool ready to scream.

“God I hate him so much right now!” she yelled.

“Oh thank God you’re alive!” Angel sighed. “I thought he killed you.”

“More like blackmailed me.” She threw herself down in a lounge chair.

“What do you mean?” Matt asked.

“Pretty much me and Angel need to find a place to stay for the week because asshole wants the house to himself so he can do as he pleases with his stupid friends and if we’re not out of the house all week he calls my mom and blabs.”

“Are you serious?” Angel was shocked. She knew AJ had changed but she didn’t think he would do something that mean.

“Not only that, but I have to come back on Saturday to clean up after the pigs before my mom comes back.” She groaned leaning her head back on the chair. “Where the hell are we gonna stay?”

“My parents are out of town. We have plenty of room.” Jason offered.

“Are you sure?”

“Yea. It’ll be fun. We have plenty of food…alcohol…we can have our own parties every night.” He grinned.

“If he’s kicking me out of the house I might as well make the best of it. I’m in.” she hugged him. “Thanks so much.”

“My casa is your casa.” He laughed at his own lack of Spanish skills.

“I guess we might as well get the hell out of here now before he thinks of anything else to blackmail me with.” She rolled her eyes getting up off the chair.

“Ashley one more thing before we go…”Jason grinned at her.

“What?” she looked at him oddly.

“Nice hickeys!” everyone erupted into laughter as Ashley and Matt felt their cheeks flush with embarrassment.

“If I didn’t need your house you’d be such a jerk rite now.” She shoved him playfully.


They all went up to Ashley’s room so she could get her things together.


“I have no clue what I need.” She sighed looking threw her closet. “This sucks.”

“It’s not like you need that much, it’s only a week.” David laughed.

“Hello! A week is a long time!” she laughed. “We have no clue what were doing, that leaves a lot open for what I would wear.”

“It’s break. We’ll probably be in the pool most of the time.” Jason threw in.

“You boys are hopeless.” She laughed as she walked back into her closet grabbing a duffle bag. She threw in everything she could think of and closed it up lugging it out of the closet. “I just need to get together a few more things.” She said grabbing her backpack to put all her makeup and toiletries in.

“Ok. I’m ready to go.” She said almost falling over trying to carry the two bags. “Did you get your stuff Angel?”

“Yea. It’s in the hall.” She laughed as Ashley dropped the duffel bag and tried to pick it up again.

“Here I got it.” Matt grabbed it from her.

“Thanks.” she laughed grabbing her purse as they all headed downstairs.

She saw AJ sitting in the kitchen eating a sandwich.

“I’m leaving.” She said dryly.

“Have fun and make sure pretty boy wraps it up.” He smirked at her trying to be a smart ass.

“You’re such a jerk. Don’t you even care where I’m going or how I’m getting there?” she questioned him.

“If I remember just before you told me that you’re staying out of my life so I should stay out of yours…that’s exactly what I’m doing.” He looked at her showing no emotion. “So go have fun because I’ll be doing just that.”

Ashley rolled her eyes and walked out to the foyer where everyone was waiting.

“Let’s just get out of here.” She said, her voice low and angry.

“Are you alright?” Marissa asked.

“I’m fine.” She shook it off plastering on a fake grin. “He wants me to have fun then that’s exactly what I’ll do.”
End Notes:
No new updates until Thursday! Sorry guys I have a really busy week at school.
Chapter 23 by AshleyNicoleFans
“I still can’t believe he blackmailed you into getting out of the house for a week.” Angel shook her head taking a sip of her hot chocolate as the girls sat around the living room of Jason’s house that night.

“Yea well I told you he’d find a way to not have to deal with me.” Ashley frowned a little.“It’s like I don’t even know who he is anymore.”

“How has he changed?” Marissa asked. No one aside from Angel knew how he used to act with Ashley.

“Let’s put it this way, if he had caught me and Matt in my room a year ago Matt probably wouldn’t be living and he would have kept me under major lock down as long as he could and as far away from Matt as he could…not kick me out of the house and let me stay with him.”

“It seems like ever since he promised you things wouldn’t change…” Angel began.

“He’s done nothing but that?” she finished her sentence.

“Yea.” Angel sighed.

“I just wish he would talk to me, but he just gets so uptight every time we talk. We always just end up fighting.” She took a deep breath. “Whatever let’s just forget about it and have fun this week. No parents, no rules, we can do whatever we want. So lets make the most of it.” She smiled at the two.

“Where the heck are the boys with the food?” Angel asked taking Ashley’s cue to change the subject.

Marissa was just about to pick up the phone and call them when they came threw the front door.

“Food’s here!” Jason said as he put down the food on the table.

“Finally!” Angel laughed walking into the kitchen.

“Just so you know after tonight all food is being provided thanks to my brother.” She smirked pulling his credit card out of her wallet. “He’s gonna kick me out of the house then he’s buying our food. It’s the least he can do.”

“He won’t get mad?” Matt laughed.

“Are you kidding me? He barely looks at the bill for this thing.” She laughed. “and food isn’t gonna cost that much to make him notice it.”

“He might be a jerk, but he’s a jerk that pays for our food so I like him” David proclaimed.

“You’re such an idiot!” Marissa teased.

“Can we just eat?” Jason laughed already shoving a slice of pizza into his mouth.

They all just laughed at him and began eating.



“So when are we gonna have a kick ass party?” David asked picking up another slice of pizza.

“I don’t care how much you boys party just know we are not cleaning up after you.” Ashley warned them.

“C’mon loosen up a little Miss Perfect.” Jason teased. “You have a week free of parents and rules. You can do whatever you want and all you can think about is cleaning up after us?”

He went over to the liquor cabinet and pulled out a bottle of vodka. Grabbing a few small glasses he walked back over to them at the table. He sat down pouring some of it into one of the glasses.

“Try this.” He grinned pushing the glass toward her.

“Are you serious?” she raised an eyebrow at him. “I’m not drinking that stuff it’s nasty.

“How do you know it’s nasty if you never tried it?” Jason questioned.

“Cuz it smells gross.” She laughed taking a sniff of the contents of the glass and making a face.

“C’mon. We’ll all have one.” He said pouring some into the other glasses and passing them out.

Angel, Marissa and Ashley stared at the glasses in front of them timidly.

“It’s not a big deal girls.” David laughed. “We’ll go first.”

The boys each picked up their glasses and downed the liquor without hesitation. They tried to play it off like it didn’t phase them, but the girls could see the sour expression on their faces. Laughing Angel and Marissa decided to go for it, downing their shots in one gulp. Jason looked over at Ashley and the full shot in front of her.

“C’mon. We all did ours don’t be a chicken, it’s not that bad.” He laughed.

Ashley took a deep breath staring at it for a second.

“You don’t have to if you don’t want too.” Matt leaned over and whispered to her. “It’s not a big deal.”

Ashley knew Jason was right. She had to start living a little more on the edge and this week gave her the perfect opportunity. Ashley picked up the glass and closed her eyes swallowing her shot in one big gulp. She scrunched up her face as the burn of the alcohol went down her throat.

“Wasn’t that bad right?” Jason laughed at her face.

“Do you have anything more tasty?” she laughed.

“Sure. Anyone else want something?”

Everyone nodded and Jason retrieved some big glasses from the cabinet and orange juice, cranberry juice and pineapple juice from the fridge. He placed them down on the table.

“There you go mix it up anyway you want.” He laughed as he began mixing himself a drink.

“Yumm. Much better.” Ashley said as she took a sip of her drink mixed with pineapple and orange juice.


About 3 or 4 drinks later everyone had migrated into the living room. Ashley got up from her spot on the floor and re-positioned herself comfortably on Matt’s lap as she refilled her juice. She picked up the bottle of vodka and pouted seeing it was empty.

“How did this disappear so fast?” she asked holding up the bottle to Jason.

“Maybe cuz you girls are vodka monsters.” David laughed. “You each had like four drinks and each one got stronger.”

“Hey! I for one am feeling wonderful and don’t feel the slightest bit drunk.” Angel laughed getting up from the floor.

She stumbled over the pillow she was sitting on laughing at herself before making her way over to Jason and taking a seat next to him.

“No, you’re not drunk at all.” He teased poking her in her side.

“Hey! I thought we discussed this! No tickling me.” She smacked his hand away playfully.

Ashley rolled her eyes at the two flirting uncontrolably.

“Will you two just hook up already and put yourselves out of your misery.” Ashley laughed. “You’ve been flirting with each other since last night.” Ashley laughed at them as they blushed.

“We have not!” Angel defended herself.

“Yes you have.” Everyone else chimed in laughing.

“Shut up!” Angel laughed throwing a pillow at Ashley and hitting her in the head.

“Hey! Can’t I just point out the obvious?” Ashley laughed tossing the pillow back. “He’s not interjecting…obviously he’s not against the idea of hooking up with you.” She grinned at him.

Angel looked over at Jason and he just grinned back at her.

“Kiss him! Kiss him! Kiss him!” David starting cheering and laughing as everyone joined in on his chant.

“Fine!” Angel laughed as she leaned in and kissed him.

Everyone cheered as she pulled away from him and looked down blushing a little. She looked back over at Jason and they both grinned at each other laughing a little.

“Who’s up for some beer?” Jason asked breaking the moment of silence and giggles from everyone.

“Me!” Ashley yelled grinning.

“I’ve created a monster.” Jason laughed as he went into the fridge and grabbed everyone a beer.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The girls had been staying at Jason’s for three days now. Angel and Jason had really hit things off since the other night and she was really starting to like him.

This was the first night they were having other people over. They invited about 20 kids from the high school and things were going great.

“Oh my god this is so much fun.” Ashley said throwing herself across Matt’s lap. “Isn’t this so much fun babe?”

“Yea.” He couldn’t help but laugh at her in her drunken state. “I think you might be done soon.” He took the beer out of her hand.

“But I’m not finished.” She pouted as he took a big swig of it. “You just want it all to yourself.”

“No I want you all to myself.” He teased kissing her. “The beer I’ll share.” He handed it back to her so she could finish it.

“Do you want me to get you one?”

“No, babe, I’m good” he smiled.

“You barely drank anything, you had like one beer.” She laughed.

“I know, but if I was drunk too who would take care of you?” he poked her side making her squirm a little.

“You’re my knight in shining armor.” She giggled kissing him fully on the lips. “I’ll make it up to you I promise.” She whispered in her ear, a grin on her face.

“Oh yea?” he smirked at her and she just nodded back keeping the sly grin on her face.

“Maybe later, if you’re lucky.” She teased getting up from his lap and walking away.

She looked back at Matt and smiled as she walked over to Angel, grabbing her hand and pulling her off to the side.

“Thanks.” Angel laughed. “I was trying to flirt with Jason.”

“You hooked up with him last night. There’s no need to flirt.” Ashley laughed.

“There’s always need to flirt.” Angel reminded her. “So what’s so important that you have to pull me away from hottie?”

“I think I wanna do it.” She said bluntly.

“What?” Angel looked at her like she had six heads. “Like IT as in sex it?”

Ashley nodded with a grin.

“I think the alcohol is starting to get to your head.” Angel laughed.

“No, I’m serious. Ashley looked her dead in the eyes. “I can’t stop thinking about him and me, and like every night we’ve been together and that doesn’t help and I dunno I just really want to.”

“Wow…umm have you talked to him about it?”

“Not since the other day when AJ walked in on us hooking up. I think it really freaked him out.” She sighed. “And being here for the week is no better. We’ve barely had any alone time.

“So why don’t you bring him upstairs and talk to him now. There’s not that many people here anymore. But just make sure this is really what you want…both of you.” Angel smiled at her.

“It is.” She said trying to reassure Angel, but at the same time trying to reassure herself.

“Well just be safe, if you know what I mean.”

Ashley just nodded and walked back over to Matt who had now moved to the kitchen. He was drinking a beer and talking to one of Jason’s friends. When she approached them she smiled at Matt wrapping her arm around his waist and kissing his cheek.

“Sorry to interrupt. Angel ditched me to flirt with Jason.” She laughed.

“Its ok babe. We were just talking about football.” Matt put his arm around her shoulder. “Josh this is my girlfriend Ashley, I don’t think you guys ever met.”

“No we haven’t.” he stretched out his hand to shake hers smiling.

Ashley shook his hand and smiled back at him then directed her attention back to Matt. She wanted to get him away from everyone else without people noticing they were gone. She nudged him slightly with her elbow and directed her eyes towards the stairs smiling at him slyly when he looked down at her. It didn’t take him long to get her hint that she wanted some alone time.

“Hey man. Isn’t that Alyssa, that chick that you were talking about over there?” he motioned over towards the girl. “You should go talk to her dude, I heard her sayin to my sister that she thought you were cute. Make your move while she’s alone.”

“Good lookin out man. I’ll catch you later. Nice to meet you.” He smiled at Ashley before walking off.

“So what was that little grin about?” Matt raised an eyebrow cornering Ashley against the kitchen counter.

“What grin?” she said innocently biting her lip and smiling at him.

“You know what grin I’m talking about.” He leaned in and kissed her.

She kissed him back wrapping her arms around his neck pulling him closer to her.

“Can we take this upstairs?” she whispered into his ear pulling away from the kiss. “I want some alone time with you.”

He raised an eyebrow at her and kissed her once more taking her hand and leading her to the stairs. They headed into the room they had been staying in and Ashley locked the door behind her. She knew better this time.

She smiled coyly at him and pushed him to sit on the bed. She leaned in and kissed him passionately as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

Matt pulled away and looked at her questionably.

“Not that I don’t mind this new found aggression you have but what’s up?”

“I wanna pick up where we left off the other day…kind of” she began biting her lip nervously. “Except with no distractions and no interruptions.”

“What do you mean kind of?” he raised an eye brow. “I’m sorry if I got a little carried away you could have stopped me.”

“No that’s just the point. I didn’t want you to stop…” she looked at him knowing he could read what she wanted in her eyes.

“Are you saying what I think you are?” he looked at her in almost shock.

“Yea.” She said as she kissed him again.

“Are you sure it’s not just the alcohol talking? I don’t want you to do anything you’ll regret.” He said pulling away again.

“No it’s not just the alcohol.” She laughed. “I’ve been thinking about this and I can’t stop.” She looked at him with complete seriousness.

“Are you sure you wanna do this?” Matt asked his hands rested on her hips.

Ashley didn’t answer with words. Instead she just slipped her dress off shoulders and let it drop to the floor looking at him timidly for his approval. He smiled and pulled her into a kiss laying her back on the bed as he dimmed the lights.
End Notes:
Ill be in California for the weekend No new updates till Monday! sorry guys!
Chapter 24 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
thanks to everyone who has been leaving feed back. please leave more good or bad just keep it constructive!
The light shown threw the curtains the next morning and Ashley rubbed her eyes and yawned as she looked over at the clock on the nightstand. It was already noon. She rolled over and saw Matt still sleeping next to her. She smiled and kissed his cheek laying her head back down next to his. He opened his eyes and smiled at her.

“Hey.” He yawned a little stretching and wrapping his arm around her.

“Hey.” She smiled back.

“How you feeling?”

“How am I supposed to feel?” she laughed a little.

“I dunno.” He shrugged. “It just sounded like something I should ask.”

“You’re so cute.” She smiled and kissed him quick.

“So you feel ok?” he asked again.

“Matt I’m fine! A little hungry but fine.” She sat up in bed and stretched.

“Yea. I’m hungry too.” He got out of bed and pulled a pair of basketball shorts on over his boxers. “Wanna go to the kitchen and get some food?”

“I dunno.” Ashley bit her lip nervously still sitting on the bed.

“What’s wrong?” he sat next to her.

“Do you think they’re gonna say anything to us? I mean we haven’t been seen since like eleven thirty last night.” She laughed a little.

“Don’t worry hun. Our business is our business. We’ll just say we got tired and went to sleep.” He pulled her up off the bed. “It will be fine.”

“You’re right.” Ashley took a deep breath and smiled at him. “Let’s go get some food.”


She took his hand and they made their way into the kitchen. Angel and Marissa were sitting at the kitchen table talking. They looked up at the two as they walked into the kitchen and grinned at each other.

“Morning sunshine! Nice of you to join us.” Angel laughed at Ashley.

“Matt, Jason and David said to tell you to get your ass to the basketball court to play three on three with them when you get up.” Marissa informed him.

“Crap. I forgot about that.” He said as he made himself a sandwich. “When did they leave?”

“Only like five minutes ago. They said they were gonna go wait for a court.”

“OK…Guess I’ll see you later ok babe?” he said kissing Ashley quick and grabbing his sandwich and a water and heading for the door.

“Bye.” She smiled as she finished making her own sandwich.


“Spill it…now.” Angel said as she heard the door slam.

“Spill what?” Ashley said innocently taking a seat at the table.

“Oh come on.” Angel raised an eyebrow at her. “You come to me last night telling me you wanna do it, then ten minutes later you disappear with Matt and don’t show your face again till after noon.”

“And you came down here in his shirt that he was wearing last night and the two of you looked way to lovey-dovey.” Marissa added.

“Yea. So spill it.” Angel grinned at her.

“There’s nothing to spill.” Ashley tried to contain her blushing but she could feel her cheeks turning red.

“You’re such a bad liar c’mon were your best friends now did you do it or not?” Angel shoved her playfully.

Ashley just smiled up at the two. Their eyes grew wide in shock.

“Oh my god you did!” Angel squealed. “What was it like? Was it good? Did it hurt?”

“Chill out!” Ashley laughed at her. “It hurt a little at first but after a while it was ok. I dunno it just felt right. I can’t really explain it.”

“Wow. I can’t believe you actually did it.” Marissa said still in shock. “Eww and with my brother.” She laughed.

Ashley shook her head laughing.

“Look you guys can’t make a big deal about this, we said we weren’t gonna tell anyone.” She looked at them seriously. “You can’t tell anyone else…not even Kim and Kelly.”

“We promise.” They both said.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Matt made his way down to the basketball courts and saw David and Jason sitting on the bleachers. He walked over to them and took a seat next to them.

“Hey if it isn’t Mr. Stellar. Finally joining us, huh?” David said tossing a towel at his head.

“You guys just got down here chill out. You could have woke me up if you wanted me here on time.”

“And risk Ashley killing us for waking her up? No thanks.” Jason laughed. Everyone knew Ashley was never a morning person. Matt just laughed shaking his head and taking a swig of his water.

“So I didn’t see you much last night.” Jason raised an eyebrow at him.

“So?” Matt shook his head at the stupid face Jason was making.

“Dude c’mon it’s written all over your face. Every one knows you two went upstairs together last night.” It was now David’s turn to shoot him a look.

“What me and Ashley do when we’re alone is between us.” He said firmly but couldn’t keep the grin from forming on his face.

“No way!” Jason shoved him. “Ashley? Little Miss Perfect? She actually went for that??”

“It was her idea.” He laughed. “And you really need to stop callin her that, she hates it”

“Duh. That’s why I call her that.” He laughed. “Dude I still can’t believe it…”

“Well forget about it fast cuz if she finds out I told you she’ll kill me.” He warned them.

“No worries buddy.” David laughed.

“My little Matt…growing up so fast.” Jason teased pretending to wipe a tear from his eye.

“You’re such a loser man.” Matt shook his head laughing. “Let’s just go play ball.” He said as a court opened up.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


The girls talked a little more and then decided to lay out by the pool waiting for the boys to come back from playing basketball. Ashley was floating on a lounger in the middle of the pool when she heard her cell phone ringing over the blasting music. She slowly paddled herself to the edge and looked at her phone rolling her eyes.

“Why is he calling me?” she groaned seeing AJ’s name flash on the caller ID.

“Who is it?” Angel asked from her float.

“The evil brother.” She sighed before picking it up. “What do you want?”

“Well hello and nice to talk to you too.” He laughed.

“What do you want?” she ignored his sarcasm.

“There’s been a change in plans.” He informed her.

“Meaning?” she rolled her eyes wishing he would just get on with it.

“Mom just called to let me know they’re coming home early. Apparently there’s a bunch of spring break kids down there and they haven’t had any peace and quiet.”

“And this has anything to do with me because?”

“Can you cut the sarcastic crap?” he said aggravated. “She’s gonna be home tomorrow afternoon. Deal was you come home and clean the house before she gets here.”

“No. Deal was I cleaned the house on Saturday. It’s not Saturday yet.”

“That was the deal when mom was coming home on Sunday. Plans change so deals change.” She could hear him getting more annoyed and couldn’t help but laugh.

“It doesn’t work like that.” She shot back. “You messed up the house you can clean it.”

“Oh no kiddo. You don’t call the shots, I do and I’m giving you two hours to get home and start cleaning this place up or mom will get full details of what you’ve been up to.”

“Whatever…” she sighed and hung up the phone.

“What was that all about?” Marissa asked.

“Apparently my mom is coming home sooner then expected so I have to go home and clean the house now.” She groaned. “So much for our big party tonight. We were having so much fun.”

“Do you think the house is that messed up?” Angel asked. Ashley didn’t even answer she just looked at her. “Yea, it’s that messed up.” Angel laughed.

“I guess I should get ready to go back home.” She sighed getting out of the pool. “I’ll try my best to get done soon enough to come back and party tonight.”

“You don’t think were gonna make you do that by yourself do you?” Angel looked at her like she was crazy. “If we all help it will get done in no time.”

“Yea. With the six of us we could be done in a few hours.” Marissa said as the two got out of the pool.

“I wouldn’t wanna ruin your day. This is my problem I gotta deal with it.” She smiled at them.

“You have no choice. We’re helping you. Let’s get ready and go get the boys.”


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

They arrived back at the house about forty-five minutes later. Ashley walked in and her jaw dropped at the disaster area in front of her. There were empty cups and plates everywhere, a mountain of dishes in the sink and junk everywhere.

AJ walked down the stairs when he heard the front door open. Ashley looked at him as he walked into the living room. He looked so different. He looked tired, drained and pale and he had circles under his eyes.

“What happened to you? Get hit by a bus?” Ashley raised an eye brow at him. AJ ignored her question and walked to the front door grabbing his keys.

“I’ll be back in three hours, I have to go into the studio. Make sure the house is clean by then. Have fun.” He said dryly and left at that.

“What is up with him?” Angel asked.

“I don’t know, but I don’t like it.” She sighed and looked for the cleaning supplies everyone would need. She grabbed herself a garbage bag and started throwing away the cups and plates.


About five garbage bags later all of the garbage was picked up and the floors had been cleaned. Ashley had turned her attention to the bathrooms, not wanting her friends to take on the nastiest job, while Angel and Marissa started cleaning the kitchen and the boys carried all the garbage bags to the dumpster.

When she finished the bathrooms she started to clean the upstairs rooms. The only room that had been really messy was AJ’s. She was hesitant at first but she decided to clean it up so he would have nothing to complain about, besides it gave her a reason to snoop around a little.

She threw all the dirty clothes into a hamper so she could wash them and then grabbed a garbage bag to throw out all the junk that had accumulated. There was a small brown paper bag sitting on the dresser next to a small mirror. Not sure if it was garbage or not Ashley peeked into the bad shocked at what it held.

“Guys. Come up here!” she called out to Angel and Marissa.

“What’s up?” Angel asked walking into the bedroom Marissa in toe.

“Is this what I think it is?” Ashley said emptying the contents of the bag. Inside were a few smaller plastic baggies filled with a white substance.

Angel’s eyes grew wide.

“What is it?” Marissa asked.

“I think it’s drugs.” Ashley said staring at the small bags in shock.
End Notes:
yay im back hehe hopefully i'll be able 2 update as often as I have been but its Midterm time. updates soon!
Chapter 25 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley heard the front door open and she quickly threw the contents back into the bag and put it back where she found it. They quickly rushed out of his room relieved to see the boys walking back threw the front door. They were glad to not be caught snooping.

“What's up with you guys, you look like you saw a ghost.“ Matt looked at them concerned.

The girls descended the stairs and walked past the boys into the living room taking a seat on the couch.

“Hello? Earth to girls do you copy?" Jason teased. "What did you do sniff to much cleaning chemicals?"

“We found drugs." Ashley could barely make out the sentence without her mind going crazy with thoughts and concerns for her brother.

“What? Where?" Matt asked in shock.

“In my brothers room...”


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley was so confused. She would have never thought that AJ would do drugs. The more she thought about it the more it infuriated her. She knew that had to be the reason for all the changes he had made. She knew she had to approach him about it as much as it scared her


AJ walked in the door and found the kids sitting in the living room in silence.

“Looks like you guys did a good job." he said. No one looked up at him except for Ashley who shook her head in disapproval.

What the hell’s going on with you guys? " He looked at them curiously.

“We found something...in your room" Ashley began. Their eyes locked and he knew what was coming next. “We found drugs Alex. Please tell me your not doing drugs. “

“Ashley lets go talk upstairs.” He said threw clenched teeth trying not 2 show his anger.

“Are you doing drugs?” She asked again with more anger staring him dead on.

“I said lets talk about this upstairs!” He grabbed her arm and started pulling her towards the stairs his grip firm.

“Alex let go! You’re hurting me!” She yelled trying to pull her arm from his grasp.

He ignored her and continued up the stairs his grip still firm.

“I said let go!” she pulled her wrist away as they reached the top of the stairs. She rubbed her wrist and followed him into her room. “I can walk up the stairs by my self you know.”

AJ slammed the door to his room and glared at her furiously.

“Just what the hell do you think you’re doing asking me that in front of those people? That’s all I need is for rumors to start floating around.” He yelled at her.

“Those people are my friends and this has nothing to do with them. It has to do with you and who you’re becoming.” She stared at him with concern.

“Who I’m becoming? What the hell do you know about who I’m becoming? You know nothing about me.” He was becoming madder by the second and it was beginning to scare her.

“Yea apparently I don’t because I never thought you would be stupid enough to do drugs.” She could feel the tears forming in her eyes but refused to let them fall. “Don’t you care about yourself and what that stuff can do to you? You could die Alex.”

He could see the fear and sadness in her face and as much as he wanted to care he couldn’t bring himself to.

“I already told you Ashley, what I do is my business. If you don’t like it then stay out of my life.” He was a lot colder then he had been the first time.

Ashley stared at him in disbelief. How could he not care about himself? She couldn’t deal with this anymore.

“You know what. You’re pathetic.” She shook her head at him. “Screw up your life if you want. I don’t care anymore.”

She walked out the door and down the stairs. The tears that had been threatening to fall just moments before had now been replaced with anger, pity and lost hope. She walked down the stairs and into the living room. Everyone looked up at her still in silence waiting for her to break the ice.

“I have one more night before my mom gets back, let’s just go have fun. I can’t stay here.” She said showing no emotion as she walked towards the door not waiting for a reply. They all looked at each other before following her.

The whole walk back to Jason’s house was made in silence. Ashley trailed behind everyone by a few feet and no one bothered to push her to talk. They could see she was upset.

When they arrived back Angel waited by the door stopping Ashley before she went inside.

“Are you alright?” Angel asked her.

“I’m fine.” She said emotionless. “I just want to forget about all of this.”

“Well if you wanna talk…” Angel started.

“I know…but like I said I just wanna forget this ever happened and have some fun.” She smiled a little and went inside.

Angel sighed knowing she was holding back. It wasn’t good but she knew she needed time to process everything. She followed Ashley inside and went into the living room to sit with everyone else. She watched Ashley as she sat secluded on a chair stuck in her own thoughts until she broke the silence.

“We need to party but I’m kind of over vodka and beer do you have anything else?” Ashley asked looking at Jason.

“Umm I think we have tequila but it’s a lot stronger then the vodka.”

“Good.” She mumbled as Jason walked over to the liquor cabinet and pulled out the bottle of Jose Cuervo.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Babe, I think you had enough.” Matt said pulling Ashley’s glass away from her as she stumbled across the living room.

“Oh stop being a party pooper.” She laughed sitting on the couch and pulling him down next to her.

“Ash, this is like you’re fourth drink and you had two shots. You’re trashed.” He put the glass down on the table. Everyone had drank a little that night but Ashley had gone a little over board.

“I’m perfectly fine!” she slurred threw her words. “Come on, let loose and have fun.” She pulled him in for a kiss but he stopped her.

“Ash, you need to chill out. Why don’t we go lay down?”

“Oh, lay down.” She grinned at him. “I know what you want.” She said in a sing- song voice tracing a finger across his chest.

“Babe. I really think you need to lie down and just get some rest. It’s been a really crazy day and you have a lot on your mind.”

“I see how it is.” She said getting angry with him. “I let you have sex with me and then that’s it I’m not good for anything else.” She yelled getting the attention of everyone else. She pushed him away from her and stumbled up the stairs.

“Ashley wait.” He followed her. She pushed into the bedroom and tried to shut the door on him before he could follow her in but had no luck.

“Leave me alone. I don’t want to talk to you.” She made her way to her bag trying to find clothes. She struggled with the zipper and eventually gave up in a big huff throwing the bag down.

“Can we just talk please? You know what you said downstairs isn’t true right?” he grabbed the bag from her and unzipped it pulling out pajamas for her. “Here go change and we’ll talk ok?”

“I don’t wanna talk.” She said taking the pajamas from him and making her way into the bathroom.

Ashley was in there for a minute when Matt heard a loud crash. He jumped up to make sure she was ok and found Ashley laughing on the floor of the bathroom.

“I lost my balance.” She kept laughing.

“Come on. I’ll help you.” He reached a hand out to her pulling her off the floor. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. I’m fine.” She said walking back out into the bedroom.

Matt took a deep breath and followed her back out. He sat down on the bed and made her sit next to him.

“I know you’re not ok about everything that went on today. Why don’t you want to talk about it?” he looked her in the eyes. She could see his concern and was beginning to feel bad for acting the way she had so far that night.

“Matt I…” she trailed off grabbing her stomach as she felt a wave of nausea rush threw her. “Hold that thought.” She said as she ran into the bathroom just making it to the toilet in time. Matt ran after her and found her hugging the toilet as she threw up. He quickly filled up a cup with water and sat beside her pulling her hair out of the way and rubbing her back.

Ashley spent the next forty-five minutes hovering over the toilet ridding herself of all the alcohol she had previously drank. Matt stayed with her the whole time making sure she had plenty of water and that she was ok.

Ashley finally leaned back against the wall sure that she had nothing left in her.

“I’m never drinking again.” She groaned rubbing her head. “Is there any Tylenol or anything?”

“Yea. Angel brought in some before.” He grabbed the bottle and refilled her cup handing her two pills. She took them sighed leaning her head back against the wall.

“If you’re feeling better you should try and lay down.” Matt said as he helped her up from the floor.

Ashley quickly brushed her teeth then he helped her over to the bed. He handed her another shirt to change into and pulled back the covers. She climbed in the bed and he pulled the covers up for her. He left a glass of water on the nightstand and the garbage pail by the side of the bed.

“I’ll let you get some rest.” He smiled and started for the door. Ashley grabbed his arm stopping him.

“Don’t leave me please.” She looked at him with tears in her eyes. “I don’t wanna be alone.”

Matt smiled at her and kissed her forehead climbing into the bed next to her. He wrapped his arm around her waist and she leaned back into his embrace. She closed her eyes and finally let all the tears that she had been holding back all day fall.

“How can he not care about himself?” she asked through her tears. “He could die and he doesn’t even care.”

“I wish I knew what to say.” Matt sighed. “It’s hard to get threw to someone like that. He has to learn the hard way.”

“I just wish he would talk to me, or to anyone, and tell me what’s wrong. Everyone said he changed but he’s the only one who can’t see it. I can’t tell my mom or anyone he’d never forgive me.”

“Ashley you confronted him and that’s probably the most someone has done. You can’t keep kicking yourself for his mistakes. You can’t change how he is.” Matt kissed her cheek and wiped away some of the tears that were falling.

“I guess you’re right but I just hate that I can’t help him.” Ashley sighed.

“Just try and get some sleep. We can talk more about this in the morning ok?”

Ashley nodded and closed her eyes. She was asleep in no time, although it wasn’t peaceful.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley groaned covering her head with her pillow as her phone blared loudly. The high-pitched noise of her ring tone did nothing for her growing headache. She kept her eyes closed fearing the brightness of the sun as she grabbed her phone off the nightstand and answered it.

“Hello.” She grumbled into the phone.

“Ashley? Are you alright, you sound sick.” Denise said concerned from the other end.

Ashley quickly cleared her throat and ignored her growing hangover sitting up in bed.

“No, sorry mom I was just in a deep sleep.” She lied. “I just need some water my throat is dry.”

“Oh ok. Well you should be up by now its one in the afternoon.” Denise informed her.

Ashley glanced at the clock in disbelief. She didn’t think she had slept that late. Looking over she noticed Matt wasn’t in the room anymore either.

“We’re almost back in Orlando.” Denise started again catching Ashley’s attention once more. “We should be back in about forty-five minutes or so. We wanted to go out to an early dinner. Alex has to go somewhere tonight and I thought it would be nice for all of us to go out.”

Ashley rolled her eyes. This is just what she needed on top of her hangover, to be forced to sit and play nice with AJ.

“Sounds fun mom, I’ll let Angel know.”

“Make sure you’re ready when we get back. Call me if you need anything.” Denise said before hanging up.


Ashley groaned throwing her head back in bed. She rolled her eyes in anticipation of the upcoming dinner. She got out of bed and found her sunglasses, the mere thought of light made her head spin. She put them on and trudged downstairs. She found everyone sitting outside talking and listening to music.

“She lives!” Jason yelled seeing her. She cringed at the noise and glared at him.

“Not feeling to hot huh?” he laughed “Tequila tends to have that effect.

She flicked him off and took a seat on Matt’s lap resting her head on his shoulder.

“Did you sleep good?” he asked in a whisper. “I didn’t want to wake you up, I figured you’d kill me.”

“Good choice.” She grumbled not moving an inch. “My head is killing me.”

“You should take some more Tylenol. It would help.” He rubbed her back a little trying to make her feel better.

“I’ll go get you some.” Angel volunteered going inside. She came back out shortly and handed Ashley the Tylenol with a glass of water. Ashley swallowed it then looked over at her.

“Thanks, we have to go back to my house. We have family dinner.” She said excitedly, the sarcasm apparent in her voice.

“When?” Angel looked over. “Can you handle that right now?”

“I don’t really have a choice. We have to be ready in like an hour.”

“When do you want to leave?”

“I guess now. I’m not looking forward to this walk.” She sighed getting up to go put her things together. As she made her way back inside her phone rang again. She groaned seeing the called ID but picked it up anyway.


“What do you want?” she said in a snotty tone.

“Well hi Alex, how are you today? Oh I’m fine how are you Ashley? Bitchy as always.” AJ said on the other side. She rolled her eyes.

“What do you want?” she asked again ignoring his attempts at comedy.

“You need to come home.”

“I know that. I already talked to mom I’m getting my stuff and then I’ll walk home.”

“Where are you and I’ll come get you. You need to be ready when she gets here.”

“Wow it only took what four days for you to finally wonder where I am?” now it was her turn for the sarcasm.

“I’m trying to be nice here, let’s not ruin it.” He sighed.

“Oh nice is what you’re going for? Why, because now I have dirt on you? Just pick me up by Matt’s house, I’m next door.” She said hanging up before he had a chance to add anything in.


As much as she didn’t want to be around him that one-mile walk home wasn’t looking appealing right now. She threw all her things back into her bags just as Angel walked in with her stuff.


“Alex is coming to pick us up, I told him we’d be outside.”

“He is?”

“The tables have turned yet again and I have the upper hand now so he’s trying to be nice so I won’t spill his little secret.” She informed her. “Too bad he doesn’t realize that I don’t care.” She lied.


She lugged her bags downstairs then walked out back to say goodbye to everyone. AJ pulled up just as they were walking outside. Matt helped them load their bags in the trunk.

“Feel better.” He smiled and kissed her as she climbed in the truck.

Matt shut the door and the slam made her cringe. The Tylenol had started working but it didn’t do much. Her head was still pounding. She shut off the music and buckled her seat belt staring out the window, hoping he would just drive home in silence.

“Why do you need to feel better?” she knew silence was just wishful thinking.

“I have a headache.” She mumbled.

“Take your sunglasses off.” He looked at her still not pulling away from the curb.

“Can we just go home? We have to be ready soon and I still need to shower.” She ignored him.

“Sunglasses off first.” He looked at her seriously.

She pulled off her sunglasses squinting as the light hit her eyes. He studied her emotionless face for a moment but didn’t say anything. Sighing he turned away from her and began driving home. When they arrived at the house Angel hoped out of the car to retrieve the bags. Ashley was about to open the door when AJ stopped her.

“We’ll be in, in a minute.” He said to Angel as she passed the car. She looked back at Ashley who just shrugged giving her the ok to leave her.

“Nice hangover you have there.” AJ said sarcastically. “What possessed you to drink?”

“What possessed you to do drugs?” she shot back.

“Ashley this has nothing to do with me. You’re thirteen and you shouldn’t be drinking and getting so shit faced that you have a major hangover the next day.” He ignored her comment.

“Since when do you care what I do? Last time I checked you were kicking me out of the house and telling me to go have fun, and that’s exactly what I did.”

“I meant spend time with your friends not go completely crazy. I thought that you were a good kid I didn’t think you’d get into trouble.”

“Yea? And I didn’t expect you to be a loser druggie.” She didn’t care how much her words hurt him she was angry and wanted him to know it.

“Will you drop the drug shit!” he yelled. “I am not doing drugs.” He knew he was lying to her and to himself.

“Oh then what were they doing in your room… wait let me guess you were ‘holding them for a friend.’” She said sarcastically.

“You really need to cut out this little attitude that you have going on.”

“I’ll cut it out when you stop lying and being a jerk. ”

“Yes, Ashley I’ve tried it a few times but that doesn’t mean that I do drugs. Is that what you want to hear? That I’m not perfect and I’ve done stupid shit? Well then there you go.”

“You’re full of crap Alex. Trying it once is one thing trying it a few times and having it on you means you do drugs. Face the music and realize you have a problem.”

“You’re impossible! What the hell do you want from me?” he could feel the anger rising throughout his body.

“I want the truth! I want you to be yourself!” she yelled. “You found me in bed with a guy and then you go and send me off with him to do whatever I want. The real you would have grounded me for life! I wanted you to stop me and to care, but you didn’t!” she felt the tears flowing freely from her eyes as she finally told him how she felt.

“I’m sorry.” He sighed rubbing he head.

“Yea. You are.” She said coldly wiping her eyes. She got out of the car and grabbed her bags heading inside.

AJ punched the dashboard in anger. He had really messed up this time and there was nothing he could do to make things better, she had enough of him.
Chapter 26 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley slammed the front door and stomped up the stairs. She entered her room and threw her bag down on the floor. Angel looked at her with a raised eyebrow as Ashley sighed throwing herself down on her bed.

“Why do I care so much? I mean I shouldn’t care right? He doesn’t even care so why should I?”

“He’s you’re brother Ash, no matter how bad he messed up you’re always gonna care.” She reminded her.

“Why doesn’t he care about me then?” she fought back tears.

“He does. He’s just lost right now. Give him some time and he’ll come back around.” Angel handed her a tissue.

“I just don’t know what to do. If I tell someone he’ll never ever forgive me, but how do I just forget about it and pretend it never happened? What if something happened to him? I could never forgive myself.” She said wiping her eyes with the tissue.

“Ashley, think about what this is doing to you. You have to make sure you’re ok first before him. You were a mess yesterday all because of this. Think of you because he’s only thinking about himself.”

“You’re right.” She sighed sitting up and glancing at the clock. “We need to get ready and paint on those happy smiles. This weekend was supposed to be about us working out our differences.”

She hoped up from the bed and went into her closet grabbing some clothes before making her way into the shower.

She quickly got ready and made her way back into her room to throw up her hair. She was almost done when there was a knock on her door. She opened it to find Denise smiling on the other side.

“Good you’re ready.” Denise smiled.

“Hey mom.” She hugged her. “Yea, I’m ready to go. Is Angel downstairs already.”

“Nope, I’m right here.” She said popping up behind Denise. “I’m ready to go.”

“Alright then lets be on our way.” Denise said heading towards the stairs.

Tony and AJ met them by the door and they headed out. As they walked towards the car AJ grabbed Ashley’s arm holding her back.

“You’re not going to say anything are you?” he asked. She could see the fear in his eyes.

“Look, I don’t care what you do anymore. I’ll play nice with you at dinner but after that don’t talk to me.” She replied firmly making her way into the car.

He sighed and got in his truck and they were off.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


It had been a few weeks since the big fight between AJ and Ashley. She faked her way threw dinner that last night but after that had kept her vow to stay out of his life. She couldn’t bring herself to watch him ruin his life. She wanted so badly to tell someone but she knew he would hate her forever. As much as she kept telling herself that she hated him she knew deep down she didn’t. Eventually she wanted things back to the way they were but that would be up to him.

Ashley laid on her bed staring up at the ceiling bored after finishing her weekend homework. She was supposed to go out with Matt and Marissa this weekend but they went to visit their dad last minute. Her phone rang and she reached over picking it up.

“Hello?” she asked.

“Hey girl. I was hoping you were home.” Angel said from the other end.

“Yea. I’m home all weekend. Its so boring over here.” She sighed turning over to grab a magazine off the floor.

“Well do you remember Steven? He was at my birthday party this year.” She asked.

“Was he the one who came with that annoying girl who kept following me?” she laughed

“Yea that’s him.” Angel couldn’t help but laugh as well.

“What about him?”

“Well I just found out he goes to this really cool Performing Arts high school out here in Huntington Beach. We were at his house last night and he showed me a video of one of their shows and I thought of you.” She informed her.

“Really? I didn’t even know they had schools for that.”

“Yea. It’s called the Academy of the Performing Arts. He said they have a website and everything.”

“Awesome. A performing arts high school would be so cool.”

“Yea, you should so look into it. You’d be so good for it and then we’d live close and I could see you all the time!”

“Oh I see you have a motive. You just want me to move.” Ashley laughed.

“You can’t tell me it wouldn’t be awesome living out here. You know you love it so much more then Florida.”

“Yea, but that doesn’t mean that my mom would go for something like that. Her whole life is here.” She sighed. “So as cool as it would be I doubt it would happen.”

“All I know is they’re having another set of auditions in three weeks and you should at least try it. She can’t say no to trying. If it’s something you really want she’d support you. Just ask.” Angel encouraged her.

“You’re right. I’ll look it up and then talk to her. It would be pretty cool.”


Ashley waisted no time jumping on the computer after hanging up with Angel. She knew in order to convince Denise to even let her audition she would have to show her she was serious and meant business. After finding the schools website she printed out whatever information she could get. It was close to dinner time when she finished and she knew it was perfect timing to bring it up. She made her way downstairs and found Denise stirring sauce for the pasta she had made.

"Smells great." she smiled walking into the kitchen. "Need any help?"

"I have just about everything ready. Would you mind getting out the plates and silverware to set the table?" Denise asked.

"No problem." she made her way over to the cabinet. "Is it just us tonight?"

"Yes."

Ashley retrieved what she needed and set the table. She got drinks and helped Denise bring the food over to the table. Once they had began eating Ashley decided to take a shot at bringing up the school.

"So I was talking to Angel earlier and we were talking about how were starting high school this year. " Ashley began.

"That's right. Angel had mentioned going back to regular school, is she excited?"

"Yeah. She can't wait." Ashley took a few more bites of food before continuing. "She was telling me that her friend goes to this high school that focuses on performing arts. I thought that was really cool. You get to audition and everything."

"That sounds interesting. I'm sure the high school here has a good drama program."

"Yeah." she sighed, Denise not yet taking the bait. "I'm just really into musical theater and this school has a really good program."

"And where exactly is this school?" Denise raised an eyebrow at her.

"Huntington Beach..." she said hoping Denise wouldn't flip out.

"As in California?" Ashley just nodded in response. Denise took a moment before continuing. "Ashley sweetie, I know this sounds really cool because it's in California and you'll be closer to Angel and you're friends, but something like this takes a lot of consideration. We have a lot here already, family, the house, your friends...would you really be ready to leave that all behind?"

"I think we could do it. It wouldn't be easy but we could. I think it would be a really good experience, and its one of the best performing arts schools in the country."

"This is really something I'd have to think about honey."

"Can I at least audition? I mean I might not even get in."

"I guess there would be no harm in that." Denise smiled. "Get me the information I need and I'll make the arrangements."

"Two steps ahead of you." Ashley laughed handing her the papers.

"Now remember. I'm not making any promises. Let's see if you make it in or not and then we'll go from there." Denise reminded her.

"Ok, deal." she smiled as she finished her dinner. She knew that if she pushed it enough Denise would eventually agree, there was no way she'd hold her back from her dream.
Chapter 27 by AshleyNicoleFans
Three weeks later and Ashley and Denise were on their way to California for her audition. Denise still wasn’t sure about picking up and moving to California just so Ashley could attend high school but she knew that she would hate to hold her back from an amazing opportunity if it presented it self.

Ashley tried to convince Denise to stay in a hotel near the school rather then in AJ’s house in Malibu with no luck. She hoped she wouldn’t bump into him much but she knew it was too good to be true. Denise was determined get them to talk again but Ashley knew it wouldn’t happen any time soon.

The boys had started their overseas portion of the Black and Blue tour and had just returned from a few South American tour dates. They had a short break before taking the tour on the road in the states. Ashley wished her audition had only been a few days sooner so she wouldn’t have to deal with AJ.

They arrived at LAX and retrieved their luggage making their way outside to the pickup area. Denise spotted AJ’s truck and waved him down. Ashley rolled her eyes as he pulled up to the curb and hoped out to greet them.

“Mom!” he said hugging Denise.“I’m so glad you’re here! We all missed you on tour.”
“Well you know I missed you boys!” she smiled handing him her suitcase to put n the trunk.

Ashley didn’t fail to notice how he just passed her over, trying to keep up a conversation with Denise so he wouldn’t have to talk to her. She put her suitcase in the trunk and got in the car waiting for them to get in. All she wanted to do was go back to the house and relax before her audition tomorrow.

They pulled into the driveway of the house a while later and Ashley jumped out of the car before AJ could even shut it off. She grabbed her suitcase from the trunk and waited by the front door. They walked inside and AJ put Denise’s bags down by the stairs.

“AJ the house looks wonderful.” Denise said looking around at the newly decorated living room. Before he left for tour he had redecorated most of the house.

“Wait until you see the surprise I was telling you about.” He said picking up her bags once more and heading up the stairs. Denise followed grabbing Ashley’s hand to make her come along. He stopped in front of a closed door at the end of one hallway and turned around to her.

“Ok you have to close your eyes first.” He said. Denise complied covering her eyes with her hand. He opened the door and led her inside to a beautifully decorated bed room. “Ok you can open them now.”

Denise gasped taking in the room before her. Ashley could see her eyes well up with tears and she hugged AJ.

“Alex, this is wonderful.” She could barely speak looking around at the serene room.

“I just figured that when you come out here you need a nice place to relax. I only want the best for you.” He smiled and kissed her forehead as she hugged him again.

Ashley rolled her eyes. He was really laying it on thick. The room was really nice but he was obviously trying to make himself seem like the caring and perfect son that Denise was beginning to think no longer existed.

“It’s perfect I love it, and I love you. Thank you so much!” she hugged him once more before further exploring the room.

“Enjoy it and I’ll order us some lunch. I’m sure you’re starving.” He said as he turned to leave the room brushing past Ashley on his way out. He still hadn’t even said one word to her. As much as she convinced herself that was what she wanted it was really beginning to bug her.

“Umm where’s my room?” Ashley finally spoke breaking the ice as she followed him into the hallway.

He stopped at the top of the stairs and turned back around.

“Oh, almost forgot you were here.” He said coldly. “I guess you can just pick a guest room.”

“Mom gets this whole elaborate room and I get a guest room?” she cocked an eyebrow crossing her arms.

“Oh I’m sorry, last time I checked you weren’t part of my life. Didn’t know someone who didn’t exist could have their own room.”

She narrowed her eyes at him and turned on her heels heading back down the hall to find a room.

AJ smirked knowing he got the best of her and made his way back downstairs.




Denise and AJ were sitting in the kitchen eating lunch when Ashley made her way downstairs. She wanted to wait until they were almost done so she could eat in peace. As she approached the kitchen she heard them talking and decided to do a little ease dropping.

“Mom are you seriously going to uproot your whole life just so she can go to some stupid high school? You know the only reason she wants to be out here is because Angels here.” AJ stated.

“If I remember correctly I uprooted my whole life to move to Orlando for a certain someone when he wanted to be a performer.” She rebutted.

“But mom we were just moving a few hours north…this is all the way across the country. I mean is she even any good that this is worth it?”

“Alex!” Denise shot him a look. “Ashley is very talented, you would know that if you hadn’t backed out of coming to see her perform in her play.”

“Mom, I already apologized a million times about that. All I’m saying is you should make sure she’s really serious about this before you make such a big commitment.” He put away their dishes and put the extra food back into the refrigerator. “I just don’t want you to regret it later.”

“Alex, you worry about keeping your life on track and I’ll worry about Ashley and her future. She really wants this and she has the talent. I can’t hold her back from that. Just give her a chance, you’d be surprised at how much talent she has…she reminds me of you at that age.”

“I just want what’s best for you mom, that’s all.” He said smiling at her.

“Well let me be the one to decide what’s best for me ok?” she hugged him. He glanced at the clock on the wall and turned to head out.

“I have a meeting in LA soon so I have to get going, but I’ll be back tonight.” He turned the corner and bumped into Ashley who hadn’t heard him coming in time to move.

“You know ease dropping isn’t very nice.” He smirked at her.

“Whatever, jerk.” She pushed him out of the way and walked into the kitchen.


When Ashley heard the door shut she finally spoke.

“Why was he trying to convince you to not let me do this? Does he not get that this is what I really want?” Denise could see the hurt in her eyes and she wished there was something she could do to make it better.

“He just worries Ashley. He knows how competitive and cruel it can be out there and he doesn’t want you getting hurt.”

“No, he just doesn’t want me to be around and he figures if I’m in the same state he’ll have no choice but to see me.” She sighed.

“Ashley that’s not true. He’s your brother and he loves you.” Denise put a hand on her shoulder.

“That’s funny cuz’ I don’t see it from where I’m standing. He doesn’t even talk to me anymore.”

“Look I know you two had a little fight and Alex told me he said some things he didn’t mean but that you wouldn’t let him apologize.”

“He never tried to apologize, he just told me to stay out of his life.” She finally said.

Denise had been bugging her about the cause of the fight for a while now but she would never tell her, but she was beginning to get fed up with the constant nagging.

“He told me that you were the one who told him to stay out of your life.” Denise raised an eye brow in question.

‘That little liar.’ She thought to herself as she felt her cheeks flushing with anger. All this time she had been keeping the argument between the two of them to save his ass and he was going behind her and changing it all up to Denise. No wonder she was always on her case to make up with him.

“I did…but it’s only because he’s ruining his life and I can’t stand to watch him do it.” She blurted out immediately regretting it. She looked down at her hands as Denise narrowed her eyes in concern.

“What do you mean he’s ruining his life?” Ashley looked up at her immediately regretting that too. She had made eye contact. There was no way she could lie now.

“He just has some problems…or I guess habits that he needs to work on.” She broke her eye contact not wanting to say anymore. “Its really something you should talk to him about. I don’t want it coming from me.” She knew Denise would confront him and she knew she was in even deeper shit with him then she was before.

“Ashley, if you know something I need you to tell me.” Denise took her hand. “I have my own suspicions but if you could confirm them I can help him. He won’t be mad at you Ashley.”

“Yes he will. As much as I want to tell you I just can’t…it can’t come from me.”


She took a deep breath and got up from the table deciding to skip lunch. She didn't have much of an appetite anymore. Her stress free weekend had suddenly become a lot more complicated then she intended and she knew things would only get worse from there.
Chapter 28 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
this is a really long chapter and Im posting it really late so I havent had alot of time to re read it and check for errors but I will in the morning enjoy
Denise didn’t want to stress Ashley out before her big audition so she promised that she would wait until after to talk to AJ.

They were up bright and early the next morning to drive into Huntington Beach. Luckily Ashley’s audition wasn’t until 11:00 am so they didn’t have to head out until 8:30.

When they arrived at the school there were dozens of kids lined up outside waiting for their turn to audition. She signed in and got in line, Denise standing with her. She clung to her sheet music as she listened to everyone around her practicing. They were all really good and it made Ashley nervous. Denise saw the apprehension in her eyes and smiled at her.

“Honey don’t get nervous. You have what it takes to do this. You just have to believe in your self.”

Ashley smiled at her staying quiet as she looked over her sheet music one more time. The line progressed and soon it was Ashley’s turn to audition. She hugged Denise before walking into the room and smiled as she approached the table.

“Good morning.” She smiled and stuck out her hand greeting the man and woman sitting at the table. “I’m Ashley McLean.”

“Good morning.” The woman smiled at her. They already had her application out and looked over it. “Please hand your sheet music to the accompanist and we can begin.”

Ashley brought her music over and told him where to begin then walked back to the center of the room.

“Ok Ashley we just have a few questions before we begin. First off please slate your information for the camera. We just need your name, age and department your auditioning for.”

“Ashley McLean, 13 years old, musical theater.” She responded.

“Great, thank you. Now I see here that you are currently living in Florida. That’s a big move. Are you and your family ready for that and ready for the commitments that come with being a part of the Academy?” the man chimed in.

“My mom and I have talked about it and we decided that it’s a really great opportunity for me to get out there and work on something that I’m really passionate about.” She began. “We both know that moving is a big commitment but she’s done it in the past for my brother and she knows that this is something I really want. We’re both willing to do what it takes to be a part of this.” She smiled at them not really knowing where she came up with that answer but glad that she was able to answer so well.

“Wonderful.” The woman smiled back at her. “What song will you be performing for us this morning?”

“A Change in Me from Beauty and the Beast.” After reading the lyrics to this song she knew it was perfect. She felt she could really show the emotions she was feeling threw the song.

“Ok. You may begin when you are ready.”

Ashley took a deep breath and looked over at the accompanist letting him know she was ready to begin. She chose to start from the second verse and go threw to the end because it showed the most range in the bars she was allowed.

“For in my dark despair I slowly understood, my perfect world out there had disappeared for good. But in its place I feel a truer life begins, and it’s so good and real, it must come from within.

And I…I never thought I’d leave behind my childhood dreams but I don’t mind. I’m where and who I want to be. No change of heart, a change in me….no change of heart, a change in me”

She smiled at them as she finished and tried to read their expressions. They seemed pleased but they had been nice and pleasant the whole time.

“Very good.” The woman smiled. “Have you prepared a monologue?”

“Yes.” Ashley knew a monologue wasn’t required but it was suggested which usually meant they wanted one.

“Begin when you’re ready.” The man replied.

“It’s called ‘The Divorce’.” She said and took a moment before beginning.

“What?...What do you mean you're getting a divorce? No, no this can't be happening to me. Can't the two of you work things out? I mean how bad could it possibly be? It's you right? It’s your fault it always is. You're always riding Daddy, nagging him. I hear you. Maybe if you weren't such a nag then he wouldn't be leaving. Why shouldn't I, Daddy? She should know the truth. If she weren't always on your case then we wouldn't be having this conversation! I can't believe you're doing this to me! Do you know how embarrassing this is going to be for me at school? Everyone thinks we're happy. I'm always telling people how in love you two are and how I want to have that same kinda love. What am I going to do? I mean really? I'm going to have to change schools. All of my friends' parents are still married you know. Please tell me what's going on, Daddy. Tell me why you're leaving. Tell me what's wrong. No--no don't touch me. Don't touch me! How could you do this to me? Huh? How could you? I don't want you to touch me. I don't want to be comforted, Dad. Wait! Please don't go, Daddy. I promise I'll do better. I'll go easy on the shopping. I won't bug you about the silly stuff. I'll do the chores without tripping out...I'll do anything. Mom, why is he leaving? No--no I don't want to hear that ok? There is no such thing as "making it work out for all of us" ok. There is no such thing. Stop trying to lie to me I'm not a child! This is the worse possible thing that could happen and I will never...NEVER forgive either one of you ever again!”

“Very impressive.” The woman said as she finished. “Thank you very much for coming in, since this is the last round of results we won’t be mailing out acceptance letter they will be available on the website in about a week. Good luck to you.”

She thanked them both shaking their hands once more before retrieving her music and heading out of the room. Denise was waiting for her right outside the door.

“I heard you and you did amazing!” She said hugging her.

“Thanks. I really hope they liked me…they seemed like they did.” She smiled as they made their way to the check out table to pick up the last bit of information.

“I thought we could get some lunch around here. You must be starving.” Denise smiled as they walked out to the car. She knew Ashley had opted to skip breakfast because she was too nervous.

“Yes please!” she smiled patting her stomach. “I was so afraid my stomach was gonna growl in there.”


A few minutes later they pulled up to a cute little café right off the beach.

“It is so pretty here.” Ashley started out to the scenery of the ocean. “It’s really peaceful.”

“It really is.” Denise smiled. “Now I know we’ve talked about this a little but if you do get accepted, which I think you will, are you really ready to just pick up and move here? There’s a lot you’d be leaving behind.”

“I know but I really want this and I really like it out here.” Ashley reassured her.

“Have you talked to your friends or Matt about it?”

“I didn’t want to bring it up until I found out if I got in or not. I didn’t wanna look stupid if I didn’t get it.”

“And you do know that if we move out here we can’t afford to buy a new house. We would have to rent a town house or something small.”

“What kind of house we live in isn’t important. I just wanna be out here.”

“Ok well then I guess in a week we’ll know if it’s a deal or not.” Denise smiled as their food arrived.




Denise and Ashley had finally arrived home later in the evening. The house was dark as they walked in so they knew AJ wasn’t home. Denise had warned Ashley on the way back that she planned on talking to AJ as soon as he was around. Ashley knew this would only lead to a possible bigger fight between them but she knew she couldn’t hold in everything she knew anymore.

Ashley and Denise sat in the living room watching a movie waiting for him to return home. Ashley had fallen asleep a while ago and Denise kept checking the clock as it got later and later. Finally around three am AJ came strolling in.

“Mom?” he said shocked to see her still awake as he passed by the living room.

“Alex, finally. I‘ve been waiting for you.” She said as he walked into the room. She noticed his eyes were bloodshot and he had deep circles under them.

“How did everything go today?” he said taking a seat across from her.

“Great. Ashley sounded wonderful. I really think she has a good shot at getting in.”

“Great.” He said fake excitement dripping from his voice. “Did you need something? I was ready to just crash…it’s been a crazy day.”

“I guess it can wait until tomorrow. I didn’t think you’d be home so late, but it has to be tomorrow.”

“Ok.” He said simply noting the urgency in her eyes, which worried him.

“Can you please get me a blanket for Ashley. She’s exhausted. I don’t want to wake her up just to go upstairs.” She asked getting up from the couch.

“Sure.” He left the room and returned back a moment later with a blanket. He opened it up and threw it over her and then followed Denise to the stairs. He hugged her goodnight and made his way down stairs to his room as she retreated to hers.

The next morning Ashley woke up to sounds of voices coming from the kitchen. She rubbed her eyes and sat up stretching. She looked around at first unaware of where she was until she remembered falling asleep during the movie the night before. She listened for a moment to the voices in the other room as she recognized them. She smiled and got up walking into the kitchen where she was greeted by two smiling faces.

“Brian! What are you doing here?” she jumped on him giving him a big hug.

“Uhh.” He laughed as she jumped on him. “Well I heard you were in California and I haven’t seen you in a while. Leighanne had to go home for the weekend so I’m all alone.” He faked a sad face. “So me and you and going out to lunch, so go get ready.”

Denise had asked Brian to come take Ashley out so she could talk to AJ without her there. She knew it might be harder for them to talk if she was around.

“Awesome!” Ashley grinned. “A cute date and he’s a Backstreet Boys…whatever shall I wear?” she laughed as she got up and made her way upstairs.


“Thanks so much for getting her out of the house today.” Denise said as soon as Ashley was out of earshot.

“It’s no problem.” He smiled taking a sip of his coffee. “So what exactly do you think is going on with AJ?”

All the boys had noticed the changes he had been making and they all had their assumptions but AJ always fought off their confrontation. It was beginning to affect them as a group and it worried Brian.

“I, like all of you, have my own suspicions but Ashley knows something that she doesn’t want to share. I think she’s afraid of what it might do to their relationship. She shouldn’t have to carry such a heavy bourdon at such a young age.” Denise sighed. “You never want to think the worst when it’s your own child but I want to sit with him and have it out and let him be the one to tell me what’s going on. Maybe you can get Ashley to talk about it a little. She trusts you.”

“I’ll do my best.” Brian sighed frowning slightly. All everyone wanted was to get to the bottom of what was going on with AJ.

Ashley reentered the room dressed and ready to go.

“Ready to go short stuff?” Brian smiled as she came in.

“Hey! I’m not that short.” She laughed trying to stand on her tiptoes to appear taller. “And you’re not that tall yourself mister!”

“I’m taller then you.” He stuck his tongue out teasing her and poking her.

“Whatever loser!” she laughed as they headed for the door. “See you later mom.”

“Bye, have fun.” Denise called to them.


They got in the car and drove to the Malibu Country Mart. There was plenty there to keep them busy for a while and to keep Ashley of out the house. They decided on Howdy’s, a small Mexican restaurant. They were quickly seated and looked over the menus putting in their orders.

“So what’s been going on? How did that audition go yesterday?” Brian asked taking a sip of his soda.

“Nothing really. I’ve been really busy with school. We have our spring showcase soon. I get to sing my own song and then me and Matt get to sing a song and then there’s some group stuff we’re doing.”

“Do you know what you’re singing yet?”

“My song is the one I did for my audition, A Change in Me from Beauty and the Beast and me and Matt’s song is At the Beginning from Anastasia. I really love it.”

“I wish I could go. It was so good last time. Too bad we’re gonna be on tour already. Are you and mom coming on any of the tour?” he asked taking a bite of the chips and salsa the waiter had brought over.

“No offense to you but I hope not. The least time I have around AJ the better.” She sighed. Brian looked at her weird.

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard you call him AJ.” He laughed a little.

“Well that’s who he is now isn’t it?” she angrily bit one of the chips.

“Hey what did the chip ever do to you?” he teased. “What’s been going on with you two…mom said you’ve been fighting since your play.”

Ashley took a deep breath and let it out slowly. She should have known that Denise was behind this whole lunch. As much as she didn’t want AJ to be mad at her she was stressing out keeping everything to herself. She wasn’t ready to give up all his secrets but she needed to get some things off her chest and she knew she could trust Brian to do what was right.

“He’s just been really mean to me…every time I try to talk to him he just yells at me and tells me to stay out of his business.” Brian could see the sadness in her eyes. “So I finally had enough with his stupid attitude and told him to leave me alone.”

“There has to be more then that Ash.” He searched her eyes for the answers he was looking for.

“I can’t tell you. I already told my mom, it has to come from him. He’ll hate me forever if I tell and as much as I tell him I don’t care I do. I don’t want him to hate me.” She fought back the tears that were threatening to fall, wanting so bad to just tell Brian everything she knew.

“Is it something that he told you?” Brian tried to push it a little further but knew he wouldn’t get much more out of her.

“No…” she kept her head down staring at the table.

“Something you saw?” he tried again.

“No…” she mumbled again.

“Something you found?” he asked one last time. Ashley didn’t respond this time, she just looked up and him and locked eyes for a quick second before looking down again.

“What did you find?” he knew he was really pushing it now but had to try anyway. If it was something serious he had to know. Everyone had their suspicions and if she could confirm them it would be a big step in getting AJ the help everyone knew he needed.

“I can’t tell you.” She mumbled. “I wish I could but I can’t.”

He could hear she was on the verge of tears and knew he wouldn’t get any more out of her without making her cry, and that was the last thing he wanted to do.

“It’s ok. I’ll drop it.” He smiled at her trying to cheer her up. “But if you want to talk you know you can call me.”

She just nodded as the waiter brought over the food. She was thankful that the food came when it did because it meant less talking.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Denise looked at the clock on the wall again as the time seemed to pass by slowly. It was already one in the afternoon and AJ has still not woken up. She was tempted to wake him herself but didn’t want to put in him a bad mood knowing his defenses would be higher then. She flipped threw the pages of a magazine she had bought at the airport as she waited for him to wakeup.

Finally about thirty minutes later she finally heard his footsteps making their way upstairs. He went straight into the kitchen putting on some coffee and grabbing a quick bowl of cereal as he awaited his coffee. Once it was done he poured himself a cup of coffee he joined Denise in the living room.

“Hey mom.” He said as he sat down on the couch next to her.

“Good afternoon.” She smiled slightly at him observing his face. He looked tired and worn out. She couldn’t tell if it was from the touring, the partying or a mixture of both, but it worried her. She had noticed the strain that had been put on his voice recently and his poor health and bad sleeping habits.

“What?” he said noticing her staring at him.

“You just seem really tired.” She said with concern.

“I am…the constant recording, rehearsals and touring has been kicking my ass.” He replied honestly.

“Honey look, I know that you’ve been going through a lot recently but I really want you to just come clean with me and let me know what’s really going on in your life. I’ve been talking to Ashley and she’s really distraught…”

“What did she say to you?” his defenses immediately went up.

“Nothing. She just told me that I needed to speak to you. She wouldn’t say anything but I know there’s something going on between you two…you need to come clean about it.” Denise locked eyes with him trying to find the truth, but his eyes were empty and cold.

“We’re just not on the same wave length right now. She got mad at me for not coming to her play and she won’t get over it.” He lied, but he knew that Denise wasn’t buying it.

“Alex I want the truth. I know there has to be more to it then that and for once please just stop beating around the bush and tell me what’s going on. I’m worried about you and so is everyone else.”

AJ took a deep breath and knew he had to come clean about something or she would press the issue until she found out about it all. He wasn’t going to give her the full extent of it but just enough to get her off his back for a while.

“Mom, I have some problems.” He began. “I’ve been drinking too much and I guess the lack of sleep hasn’t helped. I know that obsessive drinking isn’t good and I’m trying to cut back but it’s what makes me relax.”
“How does any of this involve Ashley?” Denise studied his face for a second before remarking. She knew Ashley had mentioned something about habits he needed to work on so maybe this was what she meant.

“Over her break when I was supposed to be watching her I convinced her that she would have more fun staying at her friends house rather then with me. I was so stressed from recording and rehearsals that I just wanted some quiet time. I had a party one night and she came home to it. She was worried about my drinking.” He knew he was stretching the truth but there was no way he was bringing drugs into this conversation.

“Alex I trusted you watching over her and you just let her go off? What were you thinking?” Denise tried to control her anger as best as she could.

“In all honesty mom I wasn’t. It was irresponsible and selfish of me and that’s why she’s not talking to me. I deserve it, it has nothing to do with her.”

“Is there anything else? Alcohol is all that you’re having problems with?”

“I’ll be honest. I did try drugs once, coke to be exact, but like I said it was a one- time deal. I hated the way I reacted to it and I haven’t done it since…honest.” He hated lying to his mother but it was the only way out.

“Alex, I really think that you should get some help, even if it’s just a counselor to talk to every so often. I’m glad that you opened up to me.” She placed a caring hand on his shoulder, which made him feel even worse. She had believed him just like he knew she would. No mother wants to admit that her son has a drug and alcohol problem.

“I’ll look into it mom…I promise.” He said smiling at Denise.

‘One more lie to add to the book.’ He thought to himself. ‘I don’t need any help. I don’t see what everyone is so worried about. I could just kill Ashley for making her think the worst. She swore she wouldn’t say anything but she lied.’

“I need to get ready to head out. I have to meet with some friends in a little.” He got up and kissed Denise on the cheek making his way back to his room.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The rest of dinner was quiet. Ashley kept her head down as she ate her food and made minimal conversation. Once they got back to the car Brian finally spoke up again.

“You know we do know some of what’s going on.” He said as they got in. He didn’t start the car up he just looked over at her staring out the window.

“When we were in Florida a few weeks ago, when AJ was supposed to be watching you and Angel.” Brian began catching Ashley’s attention. She slowly looked over at him in question and he continued. “It was probably like the third day we were down there. We had rehearsal and AJ hadn’t shown up yet.”

She nodded for him to continue.

“So me, Kevin and Nick decided to take a little trip to your house after calling him for over an hour with no response. Of course you guys weren’t home and he wasn’t answering the door so the three of us broke into the house through the pool screen door.” She looked at him in shock.

“Why didn’t you just call me? I would have let you in or at least told you what a jerk he was being.”

“Yea we weren’t thinking very clearly we were just pissed. So anyway once we got inside we found AJ in bed. He was so strung out on whatever it is he was on he couldn’t even get out of bed. See we all had our suspicions about him doing drugs…he even asked Kevin once to do some with him”

“Really you knew?” She could feel the tears beginning to back up in her eyes and she fought hard to keep them from falling.

“Like I said, we had suspicions but it wasn’t until that moment right there that we knew it was bad.”

“What did you do?” she wiped some stray tears that were now falling as Brian handed her a tissue.

“Let’s just say I can’t repeat everything that was said to him but he didn’t seem to care at all.” Brian frowned. “We all know he’s changed Ashley, but we can’t do anything about it. He has to want to do something. If we try to force him into getting help he’ll just resent it.”

“I just don’t want him to get hurt.” She finally let the tears flow as he pulled her into a hug.

“I know sweetie, but all that we can do is pray that he realizes what he’s doing is harmful and that he’ll get help.”

“Does my mom know?” she asked as she pulled away wiping her eyes again.

“I’m not sure. They were supposed to be talking today and I’m sure he’s given her some sugarcoated version of the truth. He’s a good guy and he will come around eventually he just needs time to realize what he’s actually doing.”

“Thanks for telling me about that.” Ashley signed. “I’m just glad I’m not the only one who knows.”

Brian just smiled at her and started the car as they made their way back to the house.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley walked back in the house some time later. Brian didn’t come in not wanting to deal with the unfolding drama. Denise was still in the living room flipping threw her magazine was Ashley came in and took a seat.

“Did you have fun with Brian?” she asked closing the magazine.

“Yea.” Ashley smiled hoping she wouldn’t notice that she had been crying.

“I talked to Alex and he told me about your break and how he convinced you to stay at a friends house so he could have some alone time.” Ashley got nervous…had he told her about finding her and Matt?

“Oh…” she said not wanting to out herself if he hadn’t.

“You should have called and I would have resolved it but that’s done and over with now…he also told me about you coming home to find him drunk.”

‘Drunk?’ Ashley thought to herself. ‘Looks like Brian was right about sugar coating the truth.’

“Yea.” She mumbled knowing the shorter she kept her answers the better.

“He admitted to me that he drinks to much and that he should get some help. I think it would be smart if I were with him on this part of tour to try and keep an eye on him. We could join up with them as soon as you finish school.”

“What? I don’t want to waste my summer on tour!” she whined. “I can’t do anything and there’s no one my age. This could be my last summer in Orlando and I want to spend it with my friends not with AJ. He doesn’t even want to be around me.”

“Ashley he needs us, the both of us, to be there for him. I think you can survive one summer on the road. Don’t be so selfish.”

“I don’t care if you go, I’ll find somewhere else to stay. I’m not spending my summer with him.” She crossed her arms.

“And you won’t have to.” AJ said walking into the room.

“Ease dropping isn’t very nice.” She mumbled mocking him from the prior day.

“Mom, let her have her summer. I would hate to take that precious time she has with her little friends away from her.” She could hear the sarcasm dripping from his voice.

“Alex you need guidance and I should be there to help you.”

“Mom, I have things under control. I don’t need you there to watch my every step that’s what Kevin is for.” He smirked a little hoping to get a laugh from her.

“I just worry about you sweetheart.”

“I know, but like I said I have everything under control.”

Ashley couldn’t help but roll her eyes. She couldn’t believe that Denise was buying this crap from him. She could tell he was lying; everyone could, except for Denise. In her eyes she was still the typical child who made the occasional mistakes.

“Fine, but that doesn’t mean I won’t be worrying about you.” She said getting up from her spot. “I’m going to go take a bath and relax a little before I start dinner. Will you be home by then?”

“I’m not sure.” He said. “I’ll try to be.”

Denise nodded and left the room. As soon as she was gone Ashley could feel AJ’s eyes burning into her. She looked up and saw him angrily staring at her.

“Why in the hell would you tell her to talk to me about ‘my habits’?” he asked infuriated.

“She kept bugging me, and you were lying to her about everything we had been arguing about. You were blaming all of it on me the whole time!” she was just as angry with him.

“I just didn’t want her on my case but thanks to you she’s on my case more then ever. Do you know how much I had to lie to her tonight?” he sighed. “How many times do I have to tell you to stay out of my business before you get it?” by now he was standing and yelling in her face.

“I care about you, as much as I wish I didn’t. I don’t want anything bad happening to you.” She let the tears flow freely, not worrying about holding back her emotions.

“You said you wouldn’t say anything. You promised you wouldn’t and then you screwed me over anyway. If this gets out to anyone else it’s all your fault. Don’t talk to me, don’t call me for anything…you’re dead to me.” He pushed her out of the way and made his way to the front door slamming it loudly.
Chapter 29 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley and Denise had safely made their way back to Orlando. Ashley only had a few more days until she would find out if she had been accepted into the performing arts school and the anticipation was driving her crazy. She still hadn’t mentioned it to any of her friends and keeping it from them was making her feel worse.

She hadn’t talked to Denise about the little conversation that she and AJ had the night he was confronted. Denise

truly believed that he was ok and that he would be able to work out his problems on his own. Ashley knew different but she also knew she couldn’t change Denise’s mind so she did what she knew how to do best, block it out and keep her emotions to herself. She didn’t want to burden anyone else with her problems.

Brian had informed Ashley that they were taking some precautions on this leg of the tour when it came to AJ. Management had hired an on site counselor to travel with them and they would also undergo random drug testing prior to some shows. This relieved Ashley in one sense but it also made her nervous. AJ had been good about not getting caught so far but what would happen if all these things really did catch up to him? Drugs are illegal he could go to jail, get kicked out of the group, millions of thoughts ran threw her head on a daily basis and it was really starting to wear her down. It was now that she was wishing she hadn’t convinced Denise to stop her sessions with Dr. Kelley.

She shook off all of her discomforts as she got out of bed to get ready for school. She had too much to worry about as the end of the school year approached and she needed to clear her head and focus on what was important, herself. She only had three weeks left of school and those upcoming weeks were jam packed with the Spring Showcase rehearsals, last minute projects and finals. She was so worked up in everything she had to get done she almost forgot that her birthday was coming up next week. She hadn’t even begun planning anything for it. It was just another thing to add to her list.


The day went by fairly quick. She was glad to learn that her showcase rehearsal had been canceled for the rest of the week because the younger grades needed more time to work on their songs. The bus dropped her off and she said goodbye to her friends and made her way back up to the house.

She found Denise in the kitchen talking on the phone. She peeked her head in and waved. Denise motioned for her to come into the room and sit down. Ashley grabbed some juice from the refrigerator and took a seat on the counter as she waited for Denise.

“Great Bill, I’m glad to hear everything has managed to work it self out. Tell dad I said hi.” She said to her brother. “Ok great I’ll see you then. Love you too.”

“You’re home early.” She said as she hung up the phone and turned towards Ashley.

“No rehearsals this week. Apparently the sixth graders aren’t where they should be so they need more time. Which means I actually have some time to relax.” She smiled taking a sip of her juice.

“Good. That means you have time to decide what we’re doing for your birthday. I swear you’re the only child I know who was too busy to remember she was turning fourteen next week.” Denise chuckled.

“I guess I just have a lot on my mind with school ending and the audition and all.” She shrugged and grabbed an apple from the bowl next to her.

“Well have you thought any about what you want to do?”

“I have no clue. I don’t want anything boring or cheesy, maybe just a pool party next weekend?”

“Pool parties are always good. Tony or your uncle could barbeque and we have the sound system outside. Do you want a theme or anything?” Denise suggested.

“I did see this really cool thing on the computer that you put in your water and it turns it pink!” she grinned.

“You would want pink water.” Denise shook her head laughing. “That’s not really a theme though.”

“I just want everything pink.” She shrugged “Like all the floats and towels and chair covers and stuff…all pink.”

“What kind of cake do you want?” Denise said writing down what she had been saying.

“Umm I don’t know.” She thought for a moment her eyes lighting up when she arrived at an idea. “A diamond.”

“A diamond?” Denise couldn’t help but laugh again. Where she came up with these things she would never know.

“Yea like a diamond ring. The top would be the shape of a diamond and they could put like sparkly stuff on it to make it look shiny and the ring part could have gold frosting…not like real gold but the color. It would look so cool!” she rambled on enthusiastically.

Denise was glad to finally see her excited about some thing, it had been a while since she had seen that sparkle in her eyes.

“Well then a diamond ring cake it is.” Denise smiled adding it to the list. “Do you have much homework?”

“Nope. I just have a few math problems left. I finished most of it during my study period.” She replied hopping off the counter.

“Well then what do you say we make our way over to the party store and the bakery in town and see if we can get this fabulous cake of yours started.”

“Awesome!” Ashley clapped her hands together in excitement as they made their way.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The weekend crept up on Ashley faster then she thought it would. Today the audition results were being posted and Ashley couldn’t even bring herself to turn on her computer she was so nervous. She avoided the topic threw breakfast and was now sitting in her computer chair staring at the blank screen. Denise knocked on the door and peeked her head in.

“Still haven’t looked?” she asked making her way in and taking a seat on the bed.

“What if I don’t get in?” she asked still not taking her eyes off the empty screen.

“Then you do a year of high school here, work really hard and try out again next year.” Denise said. “It won’t be the end of the world if you don’t make it but you can’t keep stressing your self out when the answer is right in front of you.”

“You’re right.” She said as she reached down and pushed the power button on the tower of her computer. As it began to boot up Ashley’s nerves rose even more. The butterflies in her stomach were so intense she was beginning to feel nauseous.

Her screen lit up and she clicked into her web browser then froze up again.

“I can’t do it. You do it.” She got up from the desk.

“Yes you can.” Denise made her way over to the desk and took a seat at the chair pulling Ashley to sit on her lap. “Like I said you won’t know unless you look. Your stress could be over in a few seconds.”

“What if they’re not up yet?”

“Then we do this again in a few hours, but you have to look.”

Ashley typed in the web address and waited for it to load. She scrolled down the home page until she saw the new bulletin. She slowly read it.

‘Saturday: May 26, 2001;

The final auditions for the 2001 Fall Semester took
place last weekend and the results are in. Please note
that if you were accepted you will be receiving an
admissions packet in the mail sometime next week.
Please fill it out and return in to the school as soon
as possible. For those who did not make it, it was a
pleasure having you show interest in the academy.
Please do not feel discouraged as we only have so many
spots available per year. We urge all of you to come
back and try again next year.’

Fall Admittance Acceptees

She looked back at Denise who urged her to click on the link. She took a deep breath and clicked on it. The list came up before her and she bit her lip in anticipation, hoping to see her name on the list. She scrolled threw the names which were listed alphabetically until she came to the last L. She paused again as Denise placed a supportive hand on her shoulder. She began scrolling again reading threw the names one by one.

“Maguire…Macina…Macintyre…McAurther…” she knew she was getting closer. “McKay…McLean…Merson.” she had almost passed it. Doing a double take she read it one one more time.

“McLean…Ashley McLean!” she jumped up from the chair. “I did it! Oh my god I actually got in!”

She could feel the tears of joy rushing to her eyes as Denise jumped up to hug her.

“I told you that you could do it.” She pulled her in tight.

“Wow.” Ashley was in a total state of shock and bliss. “I can’t believe I actually got in.”

“I’m so proud of you.” Denise smiled at her squeezing her hands in excitement. “So I guess this means we’re moving to California?”

“California here we come.” Ashley took a deep breath letting it out slowly.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A few hours later Ashley had finally come down from the high she was on. Now that she knew she had been accepted there was one big thing she had to do that she had been avoiding…telling Matt and her friends that she was leaving.

She called them up and asked them to come over for dinner. The pizza had just arrived as the buzzer rang from the gate. She buzzed them all in and waited at the front door as they walked up to the house. Everyone was there Matt, Marissa, Kelly, Kim, Sean, David, Jesse and Jason. She greeted them and led them back out to the pool area where she had set up the food.

“So what’s this big news that you have for us?” Marissa said taking a seat.

“Let’s eat first.” Ashley smiled nervously. She knew they would be happy for her for getting accepted but she wasn’t sure how they’d react when they found out she was moving across the country…especially Matt. They had been through a lot together in the last few months and she knew this would be hard on him.

“Can’t we eat and talk?” Jason laughed being his typical self.

“I’d just rather eat first…I mean we can talk but I’ll hold off on telling you the big news until we’re done.”

“Well then lets eat fast.” Matt smiled being the first to take a slice of pizza.

They all ate with minimal conversation as Ashley racked her brain for the right way to tell everyone. When there was no food left they all put away their dishes and returned outside taking a seat. They looked over at Ashley in anticipation.

“Ok well you know how I went to California last weekend?” she started. “I kind of wasn’t completely honest about why I went there.”

“Were you at another awards show?” Marissa asked teasing.

“No, I went there for an audition.”

“Really? Awesome for what?” Kelly chimed in being her usually perky self.

“A high school.” She started but was cut off by David.

“You had to audition for a high school? Don’t you usually just get placed in those things?” Ashley rolled her eyes at his stupidity and continued.

“It’s a performing arts high school. Like they focus on musical theater and stuff.” She explained.

“That’s so cool! Why didn’t you tell any of us?” Kim asked.

“Well I didn’t want to say anything until I knew whether or not I was accepted.” She smiled a little.

“So I’m guessing you telling us means you got accepted?” Matt said narrowing his eyes.

“Yea.” She bit her lip nervously. “I just found out today. If I didn’t get in I didn’t wanna look stupid so I figured I’d just wait.”

“Oh my gosh that’s so awesome!” Marissa hugged her. “You’re going right?”

“Yea.” She smiled a little seeing how happy everyone was for her.

“That is so cool I wish I could do something like that!” Kim smiled. “You’re so lucky.”

“I’m so glad you guys are happy. I thought you’d be mad at me for not telling you.” She confessed.

“Why would we be mad?” Jason asked. “It’s not like we don’t know that you love this kinda thing. It would be stupid to be mad.”

“Wow for once you say something nice?” she laughed hugging him. “Thanks.”

“So when would you leave?” Jesse asked.

“Not sure yet. Me and mom need to find a place out there to live and all that stuff first. It wouldn’t be until like July or August probably. They start school a little later out there.” She informed them.

“Wow this is so awesome! I can’t believe you’re gonna be moving soon though! We’re all gonna miss you.” Marissa half smiled.

Everyone was talking amongst them selves when Ashley noticed that Matt was being really quiet. She took him by the hand and led him over to the other side of the pool taking a seat on one of the lounge chairs. She pulled him to sit down next to her. After resisting for a moment he finally sat down.

“What’s wrong?” she looked at him concerned. He just looked away not answering her. “Are you mad at me?”

He again didn’t respond. She sighed taking his hand in hers and pulling him to face her.

“You can’t be mad at me for doing this.” She said not believing that he would hold this against her.

“Am I supposed to be happy?” he finally spoke. She could see the sadness in his eyes and she felt bad but at the same time angry that he wouldn’t be happy for her.

“Matt you know how much I love performing. This is a really great opportunity for me and I’m good at it. Why can’t you just be happy for me?”

“Happy about what? That you’re moving to the other side of the country and that I’ll probably never see you again?” he tried not to yell but he couldn’t help it. By now he had caught the attention of everyone else. They tried to pretend like they weren’t listening but Ashley knew they were. “How can you expect me to be happy about something like that?”

“I know it’s far but it’s not like I’m never coming back here. My family is still here and all you guys. I’d come to visit. It's not like I’m moving to the fricken moon or something!” she yelled back. “This is something that I really want and it’s really important to me. I thought you would understand.”

“I thought I was important to you. I thought you loved me. We’ve been through so much and now you’re just gonna leave me for some stupid school?" She could tell he was fighting back tears.

“Matt you are important to me and I do love you but this is something that I have to do for me.” She tried to make him understand. “I’ve been through a lot and I need something positive in my life for a change.”

“I’m not good enough for that?”

“Matt you’re great but were only thirteen. I really do love you and I mean that but this is something that I need to do.” She stressed once more.

“Well then go off to your stupid little school, but me and you are done. If you don’t need me then I don’t need you.” He said coldly as he turned and left.

Ashley sat there in shock. Had he really just broken up with her? Marissa looked on as Matt stormed out of the house. She ran over to Ashley wrapping her arms around her.

“I’m sorry. He’ll come around, I know he will. This is just a shock to him.”

Ashley just sat silent. She was so upset she couldn’t even bring herself to tears. She knew that she really wanted to go to the school but was it really worth loosing her friendship with Matt? She hadn’t expected them to stay together forever but she really valued his opinion and wanted him to be happy for her.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The next week was a blur to Ashley. Matt ignored her all day from the time she got on the bus and throughout practice. He had even tried to get Mr. Dunham to drop their duet from the showcase but Mr. Dunham said that the program was already set and couldn’t be changed and whatever problems they were having would have to be put aside for the show.

Saturday had arrived and Denise was running around trying to get all the last minute things done for Ashley’s birthday party that evening. At this point Ashley was so upset about Matt she was ready to call the whole thing off but Denise told her she would have to suck things up and do her best to have a good time.

Denise looked at the clock and noticed it was already 11. As much as she wanted to let Ashley sleep in she knew she had to wake her up.

Denise smiled peaking her head into her room and saw her still sleeping under the covers. She made her way in to the room and sat on the edge of the bed shaking her gently.

“Happy Birthday sweat heart.” She smiled as Ashley opened her eyes.

“Thanks.” She said groggily.

“Sleep well?” Denise asked.

Ashley nodded and sat up rubbing the sleep from her eyes and stretching.

“Birthday cup cake?” Denise smiled handing her the treat.

“Yum.” Ashley grinned taking it. “I love sugar in the morning.”

“Well finish that and get dressed. I need some help with the decorations and Tony already left to pick up Angel from the airport so they’ll be back soon.” Denise got up from the bed. “I have some cards downstairs for you that came in this week. I figured I’d give them to you all at once.”

“Ok. I’ll be down soon.” Ashley smiled and took a bite of her cupcake. She went to her closet and pulled out the bag with her new bathing suit that she had bought for the party. She put it on and threw a wrap on over it. Grabbing her cupcake she made her way downstairs taking another bite as she walked out by the pool.

“Wow it looks so cool out here!” Ashley smiled seeing how Denise had already transformed the pool area.

There was pink everywhere just as Ashley had requested. The lounge chairs were covered in a sparkly pink fabric that shimmered in the sun and there was pink pool floats and beach balls floating in the pool. As requested the pool water and the hot tub had been turned pink. There were big diamond ring shaped balloons surrounding the outside area of the pool and plenty of pink balloons to go along with it. There was a huge Happy Birthday sign hung against the back wall and the cake was set up under it. It had come out perfect and Ashley was beginning to regain the excitement she previously had for her party. She wasn’t going to let anyone ruin her birthday.

“Do you like it?” Denise asked as Ashley looked on in awe.

“It’s perfect!” she exclaimed hugging her. “Thank you so much!”

“I’m glad you like it and I’m glad to see you smiling.”

“I decided to take your advice and make the best of things. I know Matt will come around eventually.” She shrugged looking around once more.

“Well here are your cards. I have a present for you but I figured I’d wait until tomorrow to give it to you when we have the family dinner.” Denise handed her the cards. “Unless you want it now.”

“I can wait.” She smiled and took the cards back into the house sitting in the kitchen to look threw them. Most were from family who lived out of state. All had the same ‘Wish I could be there’ concept along with 10 to 20 dollars. Ashley was glad to be restocking her bank account a little. The last card she got to was from Brian. She smiled happy that he remembered her birthday. She knew she couldn’t count on a call from AJ so it was nice to know that someone cared. She opened the card and read it over.

‘Hey short stuff,

I know I missed your birthday last year so I wanted to send this early to make sure I didn’t forget. I heard you got into your school, congrats. I knew you could do it. I didn’t really know what to get you so Leighanne suggested a gift card would be best. Make sure to get some new school clothes. Have a great birthday and we better see you and mom out on the road for a few days. Miss you guys, give mom a hug from me and Leighanne wishes you a happy birthday too.

Love, Brian’

Ashley closed the card and smiled. She would have to call them later to thank them. She brought her cards and money up to her room and made her way back downstairs just in time to hear the bell ring. She opened it and was greeted by Angel’s smiling face on the other side along with Tony.

“Happy Birthday!” Angel yelled jumping on her almost knocking her to the floor.

“Thanks but I’d like to make it to the end of the day.” She laughed hugging Angel back.

“Oh my god! That bathing suit is so cute!” she exclaimed walking into the house Tony following.

“Happy birthday sweet heart.” Tony hugged her.

“Thanks.” She smiled shutting the door. “You guys have to see how mom decorated the pool it looks amazing!” she led them outside.

“I love it!” Angel squealed. “Holy crap that cake is awesome!” Ashley laughed at her friends’ excitement.

“It looks wonderful.” Tony added in greeting Denise. “You did a great job.”

“When is everyone getting here?” Angel asked walking around to see everything. “Wow you weren’t lying about the pink water!”

“Relax.” Ashley laughed at her constant questions and jumping from one topic to the next. “The party starts at three.”

“Ok cool…come look at my suit. It’s so cute.” Angel pulled her inside and upstairs.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The doorbell rang as the first guests began to arrive. Ashley and Angel raced down the stairs to open the door.

“We got it!” she yelled opening the front door.

“Happy Birthday!” Marissa and Jason yelled from the other side.

“Hey guys! Thanks!” she smiled hugging them and letting them in. She waited by the door as she saw more people coming up the driveway.

Tony took over door duty as Ashley led everyone to the pool area. Everyone slowly began to arrive over the next half hour. Ashley couldn’t help to notice the only one who hadn’t shown up yet was Matt. She kept glancing at the door hoping he would change his mind. She was having a great time but it would be better if he was there. Tony had fired up the grill and everyone had taken a break from playing in the pool to have some food. Marissa came over and took a seat next to Ashley.

“I tried talking to him today.” She said.

“He hates me doesn’t he?” Ashley frowned.

“No, I think he’s kind of over it but he feels bad about how he reacted and he doesn’t think you’ll forgive him.”

“I’m not mad at him I just want him to understand that I have to do this.” She took a bite of her cheeseburger then continued. “I figured he’d be upset about it but I didn’t think he’d break up with me.”

“Yea he regrets that too.” Marissa sighed. “I tried to convince him to come today and talk to you but he said he didn’t want to ruin your birthday. I told him he wouldn’t he just said he would think about it. So there’s still a chance.” She reassured her.

“Thanks for talking to him. Just tell him that I don’t hate him and I wanna talk to him.”

“I will, but make sure you have fun today. It is you birthday after all.” She hugged her and got up to get some chips.

The rest of the party went off flawlessly. After eating they went back in the pool for a little longer then had cake and opened presents before people started heading for home.

“Bye guys.” Ashley said as Marissa, Kelly and Jason left. She closed the door and yawned as Angel walked back inside. “Well that’s everyone.”

“I would say it was a very successful party.” Angel smiled “I didn’t want to give you your present in front of everyone else. It’s upstairs whenever you wanna open it.”

“I’ll open it tomorrow at dinner with my family.” She smiled.

“I’m gonna go shower and change.” Angel said heading for the stairs.

“Me too. I hate chlorine smell.” She laughed. She was about to walk up the stairs when the door bell rang. “I’ll get it.” She called out.

She made her way back to the door expecting to see one of her friends from the party who forgot something.

“Hey did you…oh hi.” She mumbled shocked to see who it was.

“Ashley who was at the door…” Denise stopped when she saw who it was. “I’ll just be out by the pool cleaning up.” She turned and went back outside.

“Can I come in?” he asked nervously fidgeting with his hands.

“I guess.” She opened the door a little further letting him in.

“Happy birthday." He smiled a little trying to lighten the atmosphere.

“Thanks.” She mumbled. “Did you need something?”

“I was wondering if we could talk. I talked to my sister today and she made me realize how much of a jerk I was being.” He began.

“Yea?” she looked at him to continue.

“And I wanted to apologize…can we sit somewhere?”

Ashley rolled her eyes and walked into the kitchen Matt following her.

“So apologize.” She said taking a seat at the table.

“Didn’t I just do that?” he asked. She looked at him as if he had six heads.

“Matt just saying I want to apologize doesn’t mean anything…maybe try what you want to apologize for?” she shook her head. Did he really think it was that easy?

“I shouldn’t have blown up at you the other night. I know how much performing means to you and that this is a great chance for you. I was just really upset that you waited so long to tell me.” He said.

“And?”

“…and I’m sorry that I didn’t listen to your side. I should have been happy for you but I was only thinking about myself.”

“Anything else?” she said showing no emotion.

“Is there more?” he looked at her confused.

“How’s about the fact that you broke up with me? Or that you ignored me for a week or that you tried to get out of doing the showcase with me?”

“Oh…that.” He sighed. “Look I know I messed up big time and I know that you really shouldn’t forgive me because I wouldn’t forgive me for being such a jerk but I just hope that you can look past this and give me another chance.”

“Give me one good reason why I should.” She crossed her arms.

“Because were good together and because I love you.” He said sincerely.

She smiled a little knowing she couldn’t stay mad at him forever.

“And because I got you a birthday present that I know you’ll love.” He smirked knowing just the hint of a smile on her face was a good sign.

“I’ll be the judge of that.” She said holding out her hand for the present.

He reached in the side pocket of his cargo pants and pulled out a rectangular box with a pink bow on it.

“Happy Birthday.” He smiled handing it to her.

She quickly unwrapped the box and opened it up revealing a silver charm bracelet. Her eyes lit up as she noticed each of the charms was a different music note. She smiled as he took it out of the box and put it on her wrist.

“So what’s the verdict?” he asked.

“I love it. It’s perfect.” She jumped up to hug him.

“So do I get my second chance?” he asked hopefully.

She didn’t answer she just wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him in for a kiss.
Chapter 30 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
hey guys im so sorry it took me so long to update. I threw my back out on Monday night and I've been in massive pain all week. Hopefully I'll feel better soon and can get more chapters up this weekend. But leave me feedback and let me know what you think of this one. It's a segway chapter to lead into the big drama so it was harder to write at first but I like the way it turned out.
The summer had begun and so had the start of the U.S. leg of the Black and Blue Tour. Ashley and Denise attended the first two shows in Orlando and Tampa but Ashley made Denise promise they wouldn’t travel on the road with the boys. She only had a limited time left in Florida and she wanted to make the most of it. Ashley enjoyed the show but she could see the difference in AJ’s performance. He was becoming winded more easily and his voice wasn’t as strong. This wasn’t typical for him on the first few nights; he usually didn’t show signs of fatigue until the last few shows. Ashley wished she could convince him to take better care of himself but he wouldn’t even stop to talk to her, she barely managed to get a hello from him.


Denise had been searching for places for them to live in California for the past few weeks and lined up a trip to visit a few of the more promising places in the upcoming month. Ashley was excited to help pick out a place. She couldn’t wait to get a fresh start in a new state.

As much as she couldn’t wait to move Ashley couldn’t believe how fast the summer was passing by. It was already mid June and she and Denise were planning to move towards the middle of August. She was sad to find out that Marissa and Matt would be spending a few weeks at their dad’s house in Miami. Even though her other friends were still home she missed Matt and her mood had been down since the day he left.

Denise knocked on Ashley’s door peeking her head in. Ashley was still under the covers sleeping silently. Walking into the room Denise pulled back the curtains on her window and twisting open the blinds.

Ashley groaned as the light hit her eyes. She pulled the pillow over her head trying to stay asleep.

“Ashley it's noon already. I’m not going to let you sleep the summer away. It’s time to get up.” Denise said pulling the covers down.

“Leave me alone.” Ashley grumbled pulling the blanks back over her head.

“Stop being a grouch and get up.” Denise pulled away the pillow.

“I don’t want to.” She turned over and grabbed the pillow next to her.

“Ashley you have been moping around this house for the past two weeks. You are getting out of bed right now.” Denise said firmly.

“What is your deal?” Ashley groaned not watching her tone. “Can’t you just leave me alone?”

“You better check that attitude before I give you a reason to stay home.” Denise said firmly.

Ashley rolled her eyes and sat up looking at Denise with a dry expression. “Sorry.” She mumbled and got out of bed walking straight past Denise and out the door.

Denise sighed and followed her downstairs. She hated seeing her like this but her attitude had been growing worse in the past few weeks and she was getting tired of it.

“Have you begun any of your summer reading list yet?” Denise asked as Ashley took a seat at the kitchen table with a bowl of cereal.

“No. It’s only June…school starts in September.” Ashley signed taking a spoonful.

“I don’t want you slacking off this summer. You should really get started with that,” Denise began rinsing dishes and placing them in the dishwasher.

“Mom, the books are so easy. I could read them in like a day. I’ll do it later.” She sighed. If this was how her whole summer was going to be she needed to find a reason to get out of the house now.

“Well if you’re just going to be sitting around here all day you might as well be productive.” Denise shook her head.

Ashley rolled her eyes and continued to eat her cereal.

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AJ groaned as the constant banging on his door continued, finally waking him up out of his medicated slumber. He pulled the pillow over his head wishing it would stop. His wish wasn’t granted as the persistent banging grew louder.

“What the fuck do you want?” he groaned finally opening the door to an angry Kevin.

“You were supposed to be down stairs ready to leave five minutes ago.” Kevin’s jaw was clenched tightly. “We have an interview in half an hour and you look like shit.”

AJ glared at him and began to shut the door but Kevin stopped it with his foot.
“Downstairs in ten minutes or else.” He said before slamming the door.

“Yes father dearest.” AJ said sarcastically. He made his way into the bathroom and turned on the shower. He got in and quickly rinsed off. As he stepped out he wrapped a towel around his waist and made his way back into the bedroom. He rummaged threw his suitcase and pulled out some clothes. He got dressed quickly and checked his watch. Pulling on his sunglasses and a hat he grabbed his wallet off the nightstand and made his way down to the lobby.

He stepped off the elevator and found Kevin and Marcus, his bodyguard waiting for him.

“The other guys went ahead. I told them we’d meet them there.” Kevin stared at him emotionless, studying his face and movement.

“Whatever man let’s just get the hell out of here.” AJ stuck his hands in his pockets and put his head down making his was towards the front entrance of the hotel.

As they approached he could hear the screams from the girls outside growing louder. He sighed and plastered on a fake smile as he made his way outside behind Marcus. He signed a few quick autographs before jumping into the van followed by Kevin. The door was shut and they were on their way. AJ stared out the window as they drove threw the streets of downtown Indianapolis to do a radio interview with a local station. Kevin turned and stared at him before speaking.

“You really need to get your shit together and stop fucking around.” Kevin said sternly. AJ just ignored him wishing he would give up and leave him alone.

“Look you can do whatever the hell you want with your life but when it starts effecting other people and the group someone needs to step in and do something. You have a problem face it.”

“Fuck off Kev.” He rolled his eyes and rubbed his temples trying to stop his ever-growing headache. “I don’t have a god damn problem. How many times do we need to have this conversation before you get it threw your head. Everything I do is controlled. I can stop whenever I want.”

“Isn’t that just the typical response.” Kevin could feel his temper growing. “If you don’t care about your life fine but you’re not screwing everything else up because you won’t look at what’s staring right back at you.”


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Ashley put down her book and picked up her phone as it rang. Looking at the caller ID she smiled seeing Matt’s name on the screen.

“Hey babe.” She said flipping open the phone.

“Hey Ash.” She could hear the crashing water in the background and knew he was at the beach.

“Having fun in Miami?” she wished she could be laying out on the beach too.

“Yea. I really missed spending time with my dad. We’re having a lot of fun.”

“Good. I’m glad.” She smiled. “When are you guys coming back?”

“Umm, that’s kind of why I’m calling.” He said slowly. “See my dad got some vacation time at the beginning of July and he surprised me and Marissa with tickets to Hawaii.”

“But you guys were supposed to come home in the beginning of July!” she pouted.

“I know.” He sighed. “But my dad’s really excited about this and so are we and my mom’s actually coming too. We haven’t done anything as a family in a really long time.”

“When are you coming back here?” she asked hoping it wouldn’t be too late.

“We’ll be in Hawaii for like two weeks. So I’ll be back in Orlando in like a month.”

“A month!” she could feel the tears welling up in her eyes but forced them back. “That’s such a long time. I already miss you so much.”

“I know, I miss you too but it’s not like I can just say no. I really wanna go.”

“Well have fun.” She grumbled.

“Don’t be mad at me.” He pleaded with her.

“I’m not mad.” She said the anger apparent in her voice.

“Look I have to go. We need to meet my dad at work for lunch I’ll call you tomorrow ok?”

“Yea, whatever.” She rolled her eyes.

“I love you. Please don’t be mad at me.” He pleased again.

“Go have lunch. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.” She said and hung up.

Frustrated she grabbed a pillow and screamed into it. It wasn’t that she was mad at him for going on vacation with his family she was just upset that she would have no time with him once he did get home. She picked up her phone and dialed Jason’s number. He picked up after a few rings.

“What’s up loser?” Jason teased.

“Did Matt tell you he’s not coming back ‘til next month now?” she sighed.

“Yea lucky him. My parents are off in Fiji and I’m stuck here all summer.” He rolled his eyes.

“Yea well join the going no where club.” She said. “So you have the house to yourself and no parties yet?”

“Oh I’ve had parties I just didn’t think you could come with your mom home and all.”

“Hello! I can get around that.” She laughed.

“Well there’s some people over here now if you wanna come hang out. My sisters here tonight so we took the party to the day.”

“Awesome. Anything to get me out of this house.” She laughed. “My mom’s driving me crazy.”

“Ok. Well it’s pool time so come prepared.”

“See you in a few.” She said hanging up. She changed into her bathing suit and pulled on shorts and a t-shirt over it making her way downstairs.

“Mom?” she peeked her head into the office finding Denise sitting at the computer looking threw real estate listings. “I’m gonna go to my friends house for a little ok?”

“Whose house?” she asked looking away from the computer and over towards Ashley.

“Jason’s. Some of my friends are there just hanging out by the pool.”

“Are his parent’s home?” she asked.

“His sister is.” She lied. “She’s like twenty-five or something like that.”

“And his parents don’t mind him having people over?”

“Nope. As long as he keeps the house clean they don’t mind.” She smiled.

“What time will you be home?”

“Umm I dunno. We usually order pizza so after dinner I guess.”

“Be home no later then nine thirty.” Denise said and turned back towards the computer.

“Thanks.” She smiled and made her way. She jumped on her bike and made it over there in no time.




Ashley screamed as David pushed her into the pool, her drink spilling everywhere.

“Your such an ass!” she splashed him as she came up from the water. “Go get me another drink now.”

“What happened to ‘I’m never gonna drink again!’ “ he mocked her from the last time she had got drunk at the party.

“Shut up! This is the first time I’ve drank since then and I’m no where near as drunk this time as I was then.” She crossed her arms and handed him her cup. “Now be a good boy and refill this.”

He looked at her as if she were crazy.

“Pleeeaassseeee.” She grinned. He shook his head and made his way to the table with her cup.

The doorbell rang and everyone looked around at Jason. He shrugged not knowing who it could be but got out of the pool to answer it any way. No less then a minute later he reappeared in the back yard, his face pale as a ghost.

“What’s wrong man? Who was it?” David said, Ashley’s new drink still in hand.

David swallowed hard dropping the cup to the floor as two police officers appeared behind Jason. Everyone froze in their positions not knowing what to do. The officers surveyed the area, quickly noticing the table with a few liquor bottles and beer scattered on it. The officer closest to David bent down and picked up the cup he had just dropped smelling the leftover contents. He looked back over at his partner and then out to the pool where all the kids were staring at them nervous of what would happen.

“Everyone out of the pool now.” The officer commanded. “Line up along this wall please, facing us.”

The kids did as they were told. Once they were in order the officer began again.

“Who here has been drinking today?” He asked, but no one budged.

“There are plenty of empty bottle of beer lying around. Believe me this is not the time to lie to me. I’ll ask one more time. Who here has been drinking today?”

Everyone but the two other girls present raised their hands.

“Now how many of you are of legal age to be drinking alcohol?” he asked knowing the obvious answer. No one raised their hands. “Exactly what I thought.”

“Now there are two things we can do. You can answer our questions and be cooperative and we will simply give you a warning and bring you home, or you can choose not to cooperate and we will bring you back to headquarters where your parents can come pick you up.”

The cops gave each of them a Breathalyzer test to make sure no one had lied about not drinking. The two girls who claimed to not be drinking were sent home and it was time to deal with everyone else. Ashley was nervous because she was the only girl there now. They were asked a series of questions and had to write down their addresses on a piece of paper. Since there were six of them who needed to be brought home another patrol car was called in as well. Jason’s sister had to come home and she was not happy to have to leave work early. They could hear her reprimanding him as they were escorted from the house and to the cop cars.

By the time they were on their way it was already nine o’clock. David, Ashley and Tom, one of Jason’s friends, were brought home in one car. Ashley was last on the drop off list and she was scared out of her mind. She didn’t know how Denise would react to her being brought home by a police officer, but she knew it wasn’t going to be good.

They finally arrived at the house. She glanced at the clock on the dashboard noticing it was 9:35.

‘Great I’m being brought home by the cops and I’m missing curfew.’ She thought to herself as she got out of the car. The officers followed her up the walkway and rang the doorbell. Ashley nervously fidgeted with her hands as she stared at the pavement below her. She heard the door unlock and looked up relieved to see Tony answering the door.

“Did you forget your key again?” Tony chuckled. His laughter immediately stopped when he noticed the two officers standing behind her.

“Please officers come in.” he said opening the door fully. They stepped inside and he closed the door. “Denise I think you need to come here please.” He called to her.

“What is it?” she asked walking out of the kitchen drying her hands on a rag. She looked over towards Ashley, who was staring at the floor, and smiled politely at the officers.

“Good evening, Ms. McLean.” The officer started. “Sorry to bother you at this time but we are returning your daughter. She was at a party at Jason Bates house and we received a noise complaint. When we arrived we found that there was alcohol on the premises.”

Denise looked at Ashley who quickly looked away biting her lip nervously.

“Her BAC level was only .07 which is below the legal limit. However any alcohol in your system is illegal if you are under the age of twenty one, which I am sure you are aware of.”

Denise nodded her head and the officer continued.

“All the children were very compliant and gave us no trouble so we’re letting them off with a warning. However, if they are caught again there may be more serious consequences.”

“Well thank you very much for bringing her home safely. I assure you this won’t happen again.” Denise smiled as she escorted them to the door.

Ashley swallowed the lump in her throat as Denise tuned back around. She could see she was angry.

“In the living room, now.” Denise said firmly. Ashley complied and took a seat on the couch. Tony followed them in and took a seat on the chair in the corner not wanting to involve him self.

“Drinking Ashley?” Denise tried to maintain her anger, but it was hard.

“I’m sorry.” Ashley mumbled keeping her head down and trying to fight back tears.

“Your sorry? Is that all you have to say?” Denise shook her head. “How could you be so stupid? Alcohol is dangerous Ashley, especially at such a young age and in someone as small as you. Is this the first time that you drank?”

Ashley took a deep breath but couldn’t bring herself to answer. She wanted to lie and say yes but she knew Denise would know.

“When did you start drinking?” Denise asked firmly. She was more upset now then angry.

“Over break when you were in Key West. This was the first time I drank since then though.” She said quietly.

“And that makes it ok?” Denise crossed her arms staring at her sternly. “What possessed you to start drinking?”

“Everyone had done it except for me. I didn’t want them to make fun of me.” She knew it was cliché but it was the truth, “And I was mad at AJ for kicking me out of the house.”

“Don’t bring Alex into this. You made a conscious decision to drink on your own.” Denise said frustrated. “Drinking is no way to cover up your emotions Ashley.”

“It sure works for him.” She mumbled.

Denise heard what she said but chose to ignore it. This made Ashley even more upset.

“How come he can never do anything wrong?” she yelled. “He goes out and drinks all the time and it’s perfectly fine, I do it once and I’m getting yelled at for it? It's not fair!”

“He’s of legal age Ashley. I can’t tell him to stop drinking. Do you think I like the fact that he drinks so much?” she sighed. “You are only fourteen years old. I’m trying to save you from going down the same road that Alex is going down right now do you not understand that?”

“Can I just go to my room now?” she said with a stale expression.

“Yes.” Denise shook her head as Ashley got up from the couch. “You’re grounded until further notice.”

“Whatever.” Ashley grumbled and stomped up the stairs.

As soon as she was gone Denise broke down into a fit of tears. Tony came over and embraced her gently sitting her down on the couch.

“What am I doing wrong?” she asked threw her tears.

“Honey, Ashley is just lost. You’re doing the best you can with the hand you were dealt. No one asks for any of this but you’re strong enough to get threw it.” He comforted her.

“I just feel like I’m letting Angie down.” She confessed.

“Denise she is a troubled girl who has been threw a lot in the past few years. All you can do is be there for her and try to guide her in the right direction. You can’t fail as long as you’re trying. Look how much you’ve done for her. She’ll come around.” He pulled her into a tight but loving hug.

“I just wish I knew what to do. Not just about Ashley but Alex too. He’s so lost right now. I just wish he would come to me for help like he used to. We’ve grown apart so much in these past few years.”

“Honey, he’s a grown man who needs to make his own mistakes. He will come to you when the time is right, but you have to let him figure things out on his own.”

“I know, I just worry about them.” Denise wiped her eyes and took a deep breath. She knew in her heart that Tony was right, she just worried how bad things would have to get before they got better.
Chapter 31 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
so at first this was gonna be one really long chapter but i decided to cut it in half so it flowed better so enjoy...it was a hard one to write but I like it.
It was two weeks later and Denise still had Ashley on strict house arrest. She had loosened up on the phone and computer privileges but still wouldn’t let her hang out with any of her friends. Denise had luckily let her talk to Matt before he left for Hawaii but only for a short time. She had exactly one more week left on her punishment and she couldn’t wait for it to be over. She really regretted what she did and she and Denise had a huge talk about it.

Ashley sighed as she looked over at the clock. It was only 10 AM. Part of her punishment was waking up early every day, it was probably what she hated the most. She was so bored she had even finished her all three required reading books and their two page reports.

Denise decided to give Ashley a break on her daily chores so she was laying on the couch in the living room flipping threw the channels on the TV. The phone rang and Ashley groaned looking around noticing the closest phone was in the kitchen.

“Ashley can you get that?” Denise called from upstairs.

“Yea.” She groaned and made her way to the phone. “Hello?” she answered not recognizing the caller ID.

“Ashley? This is Marcus, AJ’s bodyguard. I need to speak with your mom right now.” He said firmly.

“Is everything ok?” she said worried.

“Just please put Denise on the phone.” He ignored her question; which made her worry even more.

“Mom.” She called out walking up the stairs. Denise emerged from the laundry room. “It’s Marcus. He said it’s important.” She handed her the phone.

“Hello Marcus.” She said and walked back into the laundry room. Ashley lingered around trying to hear what was going on.

“Is he alright?” she could hear the urgency in Denise’s voice and got closer trying to hear what was being said on the other side. “Ashley, go to your room.”

Ashley sighed and did as she was told, keeping her door open slightly to still try and overhear Denise.

“What happened?” Denise asked. “And he wants me to come out there? All the boys are ok with this?”

She listened intently and then spoke again. “Ok send me all the information. When he calms down a little have him call me. When is he flying out?”

“Thank you so much Marcus. I know you’ll take good care of him until I get there. Tell Alex I will see him in a few days.”

‘See him in a few days?’ Ashley thought to herself. What could be going on? She peeked out her door and saw Denise going into her bedroom. She grabbed her cell phone and searched threw the contacts dialing Brian’s number.

“Hello?” he said timidly. She noticed right off the bat that he didn’t sound like himself.

“Why did Marcus just call the house?” she asked. “Is Alex ok?”

“Ashley…” He sighed pausing a moment. “I really think you need to talk to your mom about this. It isn’t something that should come from me.”

“Did something happen to him?” she asked, but he didn’t answer. “Brian if something is wrong with him I want to know.”

“There’s nothing wrong with him. Go talk to Denise.” He said as he hung up. She sighed and threw her phone down on the bed. She made her way to Denise’s room and knocked on the door.

“Come in sweet heart.” Denise said.

“Why do you have to go see AJ?” she asked as Denise threw some clothes into a small over night bag. “What’s going on?”

“It’s nothing sweetheart. I don’t want to worry you with small things.”

“It can’t be that small if no one will tell me what’s going on.” she said walking in and sitting on the bed. “Marcus wouldn’t tell me, Brian hung up on me and you won’t even look at me.”

“They boys are postponing their tour for a little while.” Denise started. Ashley raised an eyebrow at her and she continued. “I know that you know about the troubles that Alex has been having.” Ashley nodded worried something had finally happened to him.

“Kevin and Alex got into an argument about it today.” Denise took Ashley’s hands sitting down next to her. She was fighting back tears, knowing she had to be strong for Ashley. “He has finally decided that he needs to make changes in his life and has decided to check himself into rehab.”

“Is he ok?” Ashley asked concerned. She knew getting help was good but it still made her nervous.

“He will be.” Denise smiled a little. “I have to go out to Arizona this weekend though to make sure he’s doing ok down there.”

“What are they gonna tell everyone?” Ashley asked worried that people would hate AJ.

“He’s leaving that up to the guys. I’m sure they’ll find a way to make it work.” She could see the sadness and the tears threatening to fall in Ashley’s eyes.

“Everything will be ok sweetheart, I promise.” Denise pulled her into a hug. Ashley fought hard to keep the tears back as she hugged Denise tight.

“I have to finish getting my things together and see if I can find someone to stay with you while I’m gone.” Denise pulled away and wiped the few tears that had slipped from Ashley’s eyes. “Why don’t you call up some of your friends and see a movie or something?”

“I’m grounded remember?”

“It’s summer, you should be out having fun. You’ve been grounded long enough.” Denise placed a loving hand on her shoulder. “Go out with your friends.”

“Thanks.” Ashley smiled meekly and made her way to her room to call up her friends.

As soon as Ashley walked out Denise shut her door and sat back down on the bed finally letting her emotions get the best of her. She felt as if she had been crying for hours when she finally heard Ashley calling out.

“Mom, I’m going to the movies. I’ll be home later.” She said from the other side of the door.

“Have a good time sweetie. Call me if you’re going to be late.” She said trying to mask her tears.

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News had spread fast about the postponement of the tour and as always rumors arose too.

Ashley had tried to keep herself away from everything that was happening. Denise had tried to talk to Ashley about it a few times but she avoided it as much as she could.

She wasn’t sure how to feel about what was going on. Mostly she was sad that this was happening. She could see how much it was bothering Denise and everyone else. At the same time she was happy he was getting help. However there was another part of her that was angry, angry at him for letting things get so bad and angry at herself for caring about him so much after all he had done to her. She wanted so badly to just not care and to say that she wasn’t upset but she couldn’t bring herself to do it.

She sat locked away in her room flipping threw the channels and finally settled on watching MTV. She cocked an eyebrow as she heard John Norris announce that the Backstreet Boys were in studio to make a very important announcement. She listened intently as John announced the postponement of the tour.

“AJ and we have come to a decision that he’s gonna receive treatment for depression, anxiety and his excessive consumption of alcohol.” She continued to watch as Kevin became to emotional to continue talking.

As she watched the boys talk she could see the sadness in everyone’s eyes. Nick could barely look up She didn’t even notice the tears that began to form in her eyes.

“They have to help themselves first before they could really receive help and they have to want it…” she heard Brian say as she wiped the tears that were cascading down her eyes. “it was the first time that I heard him say guys I have and problem and I need to get help…”

She continued to watch not being able to control her emotions any more as they wrapped up their segment. She hadn’t even caught most of what they were saying threw her own tears but she could tell they were hurting and just as confused as she was.

There was a knock on the door and Ashley quickly wiped her eyes not wanting anyone to know she had been crying. She got up and unlocked the door letting Denise in.

“Sweetie you really should come and eat something. It’s well past lunch and you didn’t have any breakfast. That’s not healthy.”

Denise walked in hearing the final segway into commercial from Carson Daily. She turned towards the TV to see the camera pan across the boys before cutting out. She turned back and looked at Ashley noticing the tear stains covering her face and the puffiness in her eyes.

“Ashley, it’s ok to be upset.” Denise placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “But you can’t run yourself crazy over this. Alex will be ok. He’s getting the help he needs.”

“I’ll be fine really.” Ashley just shrugged. “I guess just seeing them so upset made me sad...Kevin almost cried.” She took a deep breath and wiped her eyes once more before the tears could fall.

“Alex should be calling later on tonight. Why don’t you talk to him?” Denise suggested. “I’m sure he’d love that.”

“No it’s ok. He needs to talk to you.” Ashley just looked down at the floor saddened. As much as she would love to talk to him she knew he wouldn’t care. He had made it very clear that she was no longer a part of his life.

Denise sighed and watched her as she walked out of the room. She could tell she was hurting more then she let on but she was stubborn when it came to talking about her emotions and Denise knew she would need to come to terms with things on her own.
Chapter 32 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
This was an emotional chapter to write but I love how it turned out Please leave feedback and let me know what you think.
It had been two weeks since AJ had entered rehab and Denise tried to visit him every weekend. Typically Erin, Denise’s niece, would stay with Ashley and she didn’t mind. She was easy to manipulate so she could get what she wanted.

Matt and Marissa had returned to Orlando the prior week, unaware of what had been going on back home. Ashley filled them in on all the drama and Matt had been Ashley’s biggest support system since. He didn’t try to make her feel better he just listened, which is what she needed. He also was the only one who wasn’t mad at her for not speaking to AJ. He understood just how much he had hurt her and told her it was ok to be mad at him.

Friday had come and Denise would be leaving again for Arizona. According to her AJ was doing a lot better. There hadn’t been a single day throughout the past two weeks that Denise hadn’t tried to convince Ashley to come with her to visit or to at least talk to AJ, but she refused. She didn’t know what to say to him and she was pretty sure he didn’t want to hear from her. As much as Denise said he asked about her she just couldn’t bring her self to believe it. She knew Denise had covered for AJ many time before so why would this time be different?

Denise walked out to the pool and stood over Ashley who was laying on a lounger tanning. Ashley pulled her headphones off and looked up at her.

“Are you sure you don’t want to come with me? It’s still early enough that I can push back my flight and get you a ticket. It would mean a lot to Alex.” She said wishing she could change her mind.

AJ had asked if she was coming along this time and she could hear the sadness in his voice when she said that she wasn’t. On her last visit AJ had come clean about all the arguments they had previously had. He made sure to leave out what would get her into trouble but he put all his mistakes out in the open. He knew that he messed up big time with her. Denise was a little disappointed that he had let the fighting get so far but she wanted to mend things between them.

“Me and Matt have plans tomorrow already. We’ve barely hung out all summer. I’m really looking forward to spending time with him.” She smiled a little making up an excuse.

“Honey, I know that he hurt you but I really think that if you just spoke to him you would see that he really is sorry.” Denise sighed and took a seat next to her pushing some hair from her face.

“Mom as much as I want to believe him I just can’t…not yet.” She looked down at her hands fighting back tears. She hadn’t remembered crying so much since her mom died and she hated it.

“I understand sweetheart.” She smiled reassuringly and kissed her forehead. “Have a fun time this weekend and don’t give Erin any trouble. I’ll see you on Monday.”

“Have a safe flight.” She smiled and put her headphone back on as Denise left.

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“So she still doesn’t wanna talk to me at all?” AJ sighed sitting on a small couch in the common room of his rehab facility with Denise.

Denise shrugged and placed a hang on his shoulder for comfort. “I’m sorry sweetheart, she just needs time to think everything through. This whole thing has her really confused.”

“I don’t blame her. I know I messed up. I just wish she would give me the chance to talk it over with her and let me explain myself.” He sighed. “She’s just doing what I asked. I just have to find a way to show her I didn’t mean everything I said.”

“I know it’s not really your thing but why not write her a letter?” Denise suggested. “Let her hear things straight from you rather then coming through me.”

“She would never read it. She hates me mom.”

“She doesn’t hate you hunny, she’s just trying to find a way to trust you again. You need to show her that Alex is still around.” She smiled at him.

“I might as well give it a shot.” He smiled a little as Denise followed him back to his room.

“Want me to give you some time alone?” she asked from the doorway.

AJ just nodded as he grabbed some paper from his drawer and took a seat to think over what he needed to say.


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Denise had arrived home late Monday night due to a flight delay. Ashley was upstairs on the phone with Matt when Denise knocked on her door. She peeked her head in and smiled at her.

“Babe. I have to go, my mom’s home. I’ll call you when I wake up tomorrow.” She smiled as he spoke. “Love you too.” she whispered not wanting Denise to hear her.

Denise smiled as she walked into the room taking a seat on the bed as Ashley hung up.

“How was your trip?” she asked placing her phone back on the cradle.

“Very insightful as always.” She smiled. “Did you have a fun weekend?”

“Yea. Me and Matt went out on Saturday and yesterday everyone came over here to hang out in the pool.”

“That’s good. Erin said you were a perfect angel as always.” Denise smirked at her. “Where do you hide the horns when I’m gone?”

“It’s all in the hair.” Ashley laughed.

“So Alex asked me to give you something.” She said reaching into her purse and pulling out a plain white envelope.

“What is it?” she said taking it from her nervously.

“It’s just a letter. He understands that you don’t want to talk to him right now but he wants you to hear it form him and not me.”

Ashley pulled the letter out of the envelope. She looked back up at Denise and placed the letter down on the bed.

“Can I be alone for a little while I read this?” she asked hoping she wouldn’t hurt Denise’s feelings.

“Of course. If you need me I’ll be downstairs, Erin and I are going to talk for a while.” Denise stepped out of the room closing the door behind her. Ashley stared at the letter for a moment before picking it up again.

She took a deep breath and slowly unfolded it and began to read.

‘Hey kiddo,

There’s a lot that I feel I need to say to you, so much that I can’t fit it all in this letter. I’ll start off by saying that I really do miss you, no matter what you think. I know that I’m not your favorite person right now, and I know that I let you down a lot these past two years and for that I’m truly sorry. You know that I love you and I care for you a lot but I can’t live holding onto all the mistakes that I’ve made in the past or I’ll never get better.

One of the major things I have learned these past few weeks is to not hold resentments. I’m not going to lie and say that I wasn’t mad at you for butting into my business at the time, but now with a clear head I can see that you were only doing what you did because of how much you care about me. I wish that I could say that I showed the same amount of compassion for you these past few months, but I can’t. You reached out to me in your own way trying to get my attention and I chose to ignore you and focus on what I felt was most important, me. I never realized how much my actions affected yours.

I don’t want you to make the same mistakes as I have, especially not this young. You’re such an incredible person and you deserve all the great things that have happened to you. I’m so proud of you for going after what you want.

I know that this letter might not mean much to you now, or even in a few months but it was something that I needed you to hear. I’m coming to terms with my problems and I’m hoping that you’ll give me the opportunity to be a part of your life again.

I know you took everything I said to heart but if you take anything from this please just know that you will ALWAYS be a part of my life even if you don’t want to be around. I know that eventually you and me will be ok again and I don’t care how long it takes. I’ll be the Alex that you know again.

I miss you and I hope I get to talk to you soon.

Love you to the moon and back,
Alex ’

She could feel the tears welling up in her eyes as she read over the letter. She wanted so badly to forgive him but she just couldn’t trust him. She re read the last line…Love you to the moon and back…this caused the tears to sting the back of her eyes even more. She remembered the first time he ever said that to her.


***********************************************************
Flashback
***********************************************************

They all stood around the waiting area of the airport as everyone slowly but surely arrived. A six-year old Ashley struggled to free her arm of her mothers grasp.

“What is it?” Angie asked looking down at her daughter. Ashley pointed over towards AJ who was standing around talking with some of the others. Angie smiled at her and let go of her hand watching her as she ran over to AJ.

He looked down and smiled at her as she grabbed onto his hand tugging at it. She wasn’t being her normal outgoing self today partially because of the early time and not really knowing everyone there. She didn’t have to say anything for him to know what she wanted. He reached down and picked her up effortlessly.

“Why are you being so shy today kiddo?” he asked poking her side causing her to smile a little. She shrugged and wrapped her arms around his neck resting her head on his shoulder. “You’ve met all the other guys, they don’t bite.”

“Hey guys looks like everyone is here, start saying your goodbyes and we’ll be on our way!” Lou announced to the group.

“Come on Ashley.” Angie called her. “Alex needs to go now.”

“Do you really have to go?” she whispered to him and wrapped her arms tighter around his neck not wanting him to leave her.

“You know I have to.” He smiled a little and sat down on one of the chairs sitting her on his lap.

“I’m gonna miss you.” She said her eyes welling up with tears.

“How much are you gonna miss me?” he tickled her sides trying to get a laugh out of her. She thought for a minute.

“All the way to the sky!” she said enthusiastically.

“All the way to the sky!” he mimicked her excitement. “That’s far…but you know how much I’m gonna miss you?” he asked and she shook her head no.

“All the way to the moon and back.” Her jaw dropped open in shock.

“That’s really far!” she said her big brown eyes wide.

“I know! But that’s how much I love you and that’s how much I’ll miss you. All the way to the moon and back.” He said again kissing her cheek. She smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Give me a super special Ashley hug.” He said as she hugged him tighter. “Your hugs are the best.” He smiled.

“Come on guys we have to go.” Lou called once more.

“Come on Ashley, let Alex up and say good bye to Aunt Denise.” Angie came over.

“Bye.” Ashley hugged Denise kissing her cheek. “I’ll miss you.”

AJ bent down to let her hug him one more time. “To the moon and back, remember.” He whispered to her, a smile forming on her face. She nodded as he pulled away waving as they walked onto the plane.

**********************************************************************
**********************************************************************

Ashley wiped her eyes as the constant flow of tears streamed from her eyes. She crumpled up the letter and threw it across the room in anger. She wished things could just go back to the way they were when she was younger, before any of this began. AJ always knew exactly what to say to make her feel better but lately he had done nothing but make her an emotionally unstable mess. She grabbed her pillow and hugged it tight as she cried. She needed an escape from all of this but she knew there was no way out. This was her life now and she just had to suck it up and learn how to deal with it.
Chapter 33 by AshleyNicoleFans
AJ’s time in rehab had come to an end and he left feeling stronger about himself as an individual then he had in a really long time. Ashley never called him back after reading the letter she just couldn’t bring herself to trust him yet. He was upset but he knew there was still hope for them and he wouldn’t give up. He was going back out touring with the boys again soon and with the help of a counselor and the support of the guys, his family and the fans he was doing well.

Despite all the craziness that the previous month had brought Denise managed to find a place for her and Ashley to live in California. She was actually happy to be moving closer to AJ so that she could be there for him when he needed it. She decided on a three bedroom two and a half bath condo in a small gated community about a mile from Ashley’s school. It was a few blocks away from the beach and Ashley loved that.

It was now one week into August and Ashley started school in three weeks. Denise wanted Ashley to have plenty of time to settle into their new home before she started school. They were set to move at the beginning of the week and Ashley was excited but sad at the same time. She knew the time was soon coming for her and Matt to have that dreaded talk about their relationship. She knew he wanted to stay together despite the distance, but she knew in her heart it wouldn’t be fair to either of them to deal with that pressure. It was times like these that she wished she wasn’t so mature.

Ashley looked at her watch and noticed it was 2:45. She was supposed to meet her friends at 3:15 by the high school. School in Florida had begun a few days earlier and Ashley was there everyday after school to meet up with her friends and get their insight on what high school was really like. She wasn’t much looking forward to the idea of having to make new friends in California. Even though she had Angel she lived an hour away. Ashley had opened up socially a lot in the past year but she knew that high school and California were very different.

She walked downstairs to let Denise know she was leaving and found her in the living room on the phone. Denise held up a hand telling her to wait a minute.

“Hold on a second Alex.” She smiled up at Ashley. “Why don’t you say hi.” Denise said to Ashley covering the phone.

“I have to leave now or I’ll be late.” She said trying to get out of it. She always made up some excuse as to why she couldn’t talk to him.

“Mom if she doesn’t want to talk to me don’t force her.” AJ said but Denise ignored him.

“Just say hi.” Denise looked at her sternly. She knew that look, it was the do as I say or spend the rest of the day in your room look. Ashley sighed and took the phone from her.

“Hi.” She said quickly trying to hand the phone back to Denise. She gave her another look and Ashley put the phone back up to her ear.

“Hey kiddo. It’s good to hear your voice.” AJ said on the other end.

“Uh huh.” She mumbled.

“You don’t have to talk to me if you don’t want. I told her not to make you, but you can listen for a second.” He knew he had to speak quickly. “I know that you know that I meant everything I said in that letter and I know you hate me right now.”

“At least you got one thing right.” She mumbled but he ignored it.

“Look I just hope that eventually you can find it in your heart to forgive me because I really do miss having you around. I know you want to go hang out with your friends so you can put mom back on the phone. I love you kiddo.”

“Bye.” She replied handing the phone back to Denise. “I’ll be home for dinner.” She said walking out.

When she was out the door she took a deep breath to keep her emotions under control. She had learned to do that pretty well in the last few weeks. The only person who could read her like a book was Matt. She took off towards the school on her bike and made it there just as kids were starting to file out.

She waited by the South entrance until she saw her friends heading over in her direction.

“Hey guys!” she smiled at them. “Glad you’re first week is over?” she laughed at the tired looks on all their faces.

“Yes. Thank god.” Matt smiled pulling her into a hug and kissing her. “But I miss not having you around.”

She smiled at him and kissed him back.

“You guys make me sick.” Jason laughed. “Go get married already.”

“Whatever. I know your happy to have Matt back in the same school and now with me gone you can go and have your little bro-mance behind my back.” She teased.

“Matt she’s onto us. We should just break the news.” Jason joked in a seductive voice putting his hand on Matt’s shoulder.

“Dude.” Matt pushed him off. “Don’t ever do that again.”

The whole group erupted into laughter as Jason batted his eyes at Matt causing him to shiver in disgust.

“It’s ok babe I know you’re all real man.” She kissed him with a grin.

“Yea she does.” David laughed. Matt shot him a look and Ashley raised an eyebrow at him.

“You so did not tell them.” She said loud enough so just he could hear.

“Tell who what?” Sean and Jesse butted in. Matt just ignored them.

“Just D and Jay…you told my sister and Angel.” He reminded her.

“What does everyone know that we don’t?” Kelley asked.

“Just that Ashley knows how much of a real man Matt is.” David teased with a grin.

“Shut up, jerk.” Ashley glared at him so hard that if looks could kill he would be six feet under.

“Dude…no way! You two?” Jesse’s eyes grew wide. “Sweet.” he put up his hand for a high five but Matt ignored him.

“Fuck this, I’m going home.” Ashley turned away upset that her little secret had been brought out in the open.

“Ash wait.” Matt followed after her glaring at David as he pushed by him.

“You are such an ass!” Marissa smacked him.

“What! It’s not that big of a deal. If they didn’t want anyone to know they shouldn’t have told anyone.” He defended himself.

“Wait so they really did it?” Kim asked shocked.

“A few times now.” David boasted.

“David just shut up! What they do is none of our business so drop it…everyone.” Marissa commanded.

“Yea. She’s right, and you’re an idiot.” Jason shook his head laughing.

“I didn’t think she’d get so mad.” David shrugged dropping it.

“Just don’t bring it up again. She’s leaving in like two days and I don’t want her leaving upset at everyone.” Marissa said.

“I’ll apologize later.” David sighed knowing that’s what it would take to get Marissa off his case.

“Good. Now let’s get home.” She said walking away.

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“Ash, wait up!” Matt said finally catching up with her on his bike. He grabbed her handle bar to slow her down. She stopped pedaling and put her foot down to balance turning to face him.

“Your friends are ass holes.” She pursed her lips in anger.

“They’re your friends too.”

“Not right now.” She frowned. “Everyone probably thinks I’m some skank now.”

“They would never think that and you know it.” He tried to cheer her up seeing how upset she was. “Why don’t we ride over to the park by my house and talk for a little, spend some time alone.”

She shrugged still visibly upset. He moved close to her and placed a gentle kiss on her lips.

“Come on. We need some alone time anyway. Please?” he gave her his best puppy dog face batting his eye lashes. She couldn’t help but laugh.

“Fine.” She smiled a little. “Race you there.” She laughed taking off on her bike.

“Hey! No fair!” he said taking a second to get himself situated again before he took off after her.

Ashley made it to the park first, Matt not too far behind her. She pulled her bike over to a tree by the pond and crossed her arms grinning as he pulled up after her.

“So nice of you to join me.” She teased.

“You’re such a cheater!” he accused laughing as he leaned his bike next to hers.

“Am not!” she laughed taking off again. “Race you to the field.”

“I’m gonna get you cheater!” he laughed chasing after her.

He caught up to her with little effort and grabbed her pulling her close to him. She squealed as he pulled her to the ground and climbed on top of her pinning her down.

“Haha! Now you’re mine!” he grinned evilly his hands getting closer to her waist.

“Don’t you dare!” she warned him anticipating his next more. “MATT!” she screamed as he began tickling her.

“Beg for mercy and I’ll stop.” He teased her as she breathlessly squirmed beneath him.

“Never!” she managed to get out trying to free herself of his torture. He continued to tickle her as she began to get red in the race from laughing so hard. “Ok! I surrender please spare me!” she said finally giving up.

Matt grinned and stopped tickling her. He rolled off of her and laid next to her propping his head up on his elbow as he turned to face her. She took a few moments to catch her breath before turning towards him. He smiled at her and leaned in kissing her. After a few moments he pulled away staring in her eyes.

“I’m really gonna miss you.” He finally spoke.

“Me too.” She turned onto her stomach and began picking at the grass under her trying to avoid eye contact with him. She knew she couldn’t wait until the last minute to talk to him and it was now or never.

“What’s on your mind?” Matt asked studying her face. He always knew when something was wrong with her.

“I think…” she took a deep breath trying to work up the nerve to say what she needed to say. “I think that we need to talk about what’s gonna happen with me and you when I move.” She blurted out as quickly as possible.

“I thought we talked about this?” Matt asked confused. “We said we were gonna stay together. That’s what you want right?”

“I’m not so sure any more.” She looked down at the grass trying to fight back tears.

“So you wanna break up with me?” she could hear the sadness in his voice and she felt horrible.

“Matt it’s just…we’re gonna be so far away and you already have girls throwing themselves at you…what’s gonna happen when football starts? I know how girls are they can make you do stupid things. They won’t stop when they see something they want and believe me they want you.” She finally looked at him and could see the tears he was fighting back.

“But I don’t want them…I want you.” He closed his eyes to hold back the tears. “Why can’t we just stay together? We've been together almost a year now. We can make it work. I know it will be hard but we can do it. I don't want to loose you.”

“It’s not that I don’t wanna be with you, because I do. I love you so much and you’re the only one who really understands me. I just don’t think it’s fair to either of us. Were gonna be across the country and I know as much as we’d fight it eventually temptation would win. You’re like one of my best friends and I don’t want to loose our friendship over something so stupid.” She tried to make him understand how she was feeling as her tears began to fall.

“I guess you’re right.” He smiled a little trying to make her feel better wiping the tears from her eyes. “But just know that I’d drop any girl in a heartbeat for you.” He smiled kissing her quickly.

“I love you.” She kissed him back and smiled pulling him into a hug.

“I love you too, so much…” he held her close to him not wanting to let go. “I guess we should be getting home now. It’s getting pretty late.” He said checking his watch.

“Yea, I guess so.” She sighed. Matt got up and reached his hand down pulling her up. He pulled her into one last hug before they made their way back to their bikes and then to their separate houses.
Chapter 34 by AshleyNicoleFans
It was early Saturday morning as Ashley loaded the final box onto the moving truck and jumped out. They weren’t bringing too much with them when it came to furniture but they had far too much clothes and keepsakes to bring on the plane or ship, so Denise decided to hire movers. It made things easier because she could bring her car as well instead of buying a new one in California. The movers were leaving two days early so they would arrive in California around the same time. Denise handed the driver the deposit and watched as they drove off.

“Two more days and that will be us!” Ashley said excited. She still hadn’t seen the new condo and she was excited to get to the west coast and settle in. Denise smiled as they walked back into the house. Everyone was coming over later in the evening to have a farewell/good luck get together for Ashley and Denise.

“Did you finish ordering all the things we talked about for your room? We don’t have that much time to get the place set up before school starts.” Denise said as she began to make breakfast.

“Yea. I put the papers in your office. The stuff should have been delivered sometime this week it said.” She smiled smelling the eggs and bacon. “Is my closet really small there?”

“Any closet is too small for all the clothes you own.” Denise laughed. “When we get to the house you can have your choice of rooms.”

“Wait, so I can have the big one?” her eyes grew in excitement.

“You spend more time in your room and you’ll need more room for your desk and computer so it just makes sense.” Denise smiled knowing Ashley would have hated the other two smaller rooms.

“You’re the best!” she jumped up hugging her.

Denise just smiled. Although she wouldn’t say it now there was a reason behind he willingness to please Ashley at the moment. AJ was still home from tour until it started back up at the end of August. He was the one picking them up from the airport and he would be staying with them for a few days before the rehearsals started up again and the boys left to complete the tour. Denise knew Ashley wouldn’t be happy about it, but she couldn’t stand seeing them this way. She could tell that Ashley missed AJ and she hoped that putting them in the same house for a few days might bring them back together. Little did she know it would tear them apart even more…


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“Why did we fly into LAX?” Ashley asked as they waited for their luggage to arrive on the carousel. “Isn’t there an airport in Huntington Beach?”

“Yes but someone’s coming to pick us up and it was easier for us to come here.” Denise smiled. She had still not told Ashley about AJ staying with them for the next few days.

“Who?” she saw the look on Denise’s face and sighed loudly. “You could have told me…I would have got someone else to come get me.”

“Ashley this has been going on too long now. The two of you need to sit down and just have it out with each other and that’s exactly what you will be doing.” Denise spoke sternly.

Ashley didn’t respond she just turned back to the sea of bags rotating in front of her hoping this week couldn’t get any worse.

When they finally retrieved their bags they made their way to the pickup area. Denise automatically spotted AJ’s dark truck. Ashley could already see the hoards of cameras trying to snap pictures of him. No one had seen much of him since rehab so he was a hot commodity in the paprazzi’s eyes.

They saw Marcus get out of the drivers side of the truck and make his way over to them. Once he took their luggage from them he led the way threw the crowd. Ashley pulled the hood of her sweatshirt over her head and kept her head down as she walked straight to the car. This was the one thing she hated the most being anywhere around AJ. People called out her and Denise’s names, asking questions and trying to get their attention, as the flashes went off all around them. Marcus pushed the cameras away and assisted both of them as they got into the car.

“Sorry about that guys. We tried to stay as much on the down low as we could but they’ve been following like piranhas.” Marcus said as he got into the car.

Ashley leaned back into the seat crossing her arms with a scowl on her face.

“Yea mom, sorry about that.” AJ turned and smiled from the front seat as Marcus pulled away from the curb. “How was the flight?”

“Not to bad. You just know how I hate those long flights.” She smiled at him. “You’re looking really good Alex. How are you doing?”

“Today is good. But it’s one day at a time.” He smiled and turned his attention to Ashley who was staring out the window with the same pissed off expression still on her face. “What about you…can I at least get a hello?”

Ashley turned to look at him for a split second before reaching in her bag and pulling out her music player and putting on her headphones.

“Ashley, Alex was talking to you. Don’t be rude.” Denise said pulling the headphone away so she could hear.

“Oh that was someone talking? I’m sorry I thought it was just a loud obnoxious noise.” She said rudely.

Denise was about to reprimand her but AJ stopped her.

“Mom, just forget it.” He sighed and turned back around turning his attention to the outside world. He didn’t expect winning her back to be easy but she was making it damn near impossible to want to keep trying. He was near his breaking point and ready to give up but he knew he had to keep at it.

“This is going to be harder then I thought.” Denise sighed looking at the two.

Ashley smirked knowing she had won that round and put her headphones back on closing her eyes as the music played.


About an hour later they pulled up in front of their new home. Ashley had fallen asleep on the drive there and Denise shook her waking her up.

“Honey, come on were here.” Denise said as she rubbed her eyes. “Ready to see our new home?”

“Yea.” Ashley nodded smiling a little. They all got out of the car and walked up the driveway. Denise unlocked the front door and they made their way inside.

Nicole, a good friend of Denise, met them in the hallway as she heard the door open. She had been watching the condo for the past few weeks as things had begun arriving.

“Welcome home!” Nicole smiled greeting each one of them. “The moving truck hasn’t come yet but most of the new furniture has.”

“Fantastic. The truck will probably arrive later on today.” Denise walked with her into the living room. Ashley took off on her own to find her room and AJ followed close behind her.

She entered the room on the first floor where Denise had told her it would be. Her new furniture was already in there waiting to be positioned. She smiled as she looked around at everything, not noticing AJ hovering in the doorway. She looked in the vanity against the wall and jumped seeing the reflection of AJ in the mirror.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.” He laughed a little.

She rolled her eyes ignoring him and went to look at the closet.

“I’m gonna be here for a few days Ash. You can’t ignore me forever.” He said walking into the room.

She looked over her shoulder and glared at him then turned back as she continued to ignore him.

“Why can’t we just talk it out?” he said walking a little further into the room.

“Get out of my room.” She turned back and glared at him.

“She speaks!” he tried to lighten the atmosphere. “I’m not going anywhere until we talk.”

“Get out!” she yelled pushing him towards the door trying to kick him out.

He grabbed her arm and pulled her into him and began tickling her knowing she couldn’t help but laugh.

“Alex stop!” she yelled trying to get away from him.

“Will you talk to me?” he asked as he continued.

“Just get off of me!” she yelled finally managing to get away. “I don’t want to talk to you not now, not ever so just LEAVE ME ALONE!” she screamed and pushed him out of the door slamming it in his face.

“What was all the commotion?” Denise said as she walked to the back hallway by the room.

“Nothing.” AJ sighed. “I give up.” He walked away.

Denise shook her head and walked outside taking out her cell phone.

“Hi Kathy.” She said as someone picked up on the other side. “Remember what we were talking about the other day with you coming in to talk to the kids? I wanted to avoid it as long as possible but I don’t think things are getting better on their own.”

She listened as Kathy spoke briefly.

“That’s perfect. I’ll see you Wednesday at noon. Call me tomorrow for directions I’ll have to look them up. I don’t exactly know my way around here yet.” She smiled and hung up hoping her new plan would work.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It was two days later and everything had arrived on the moving truck. The boxes were in their rightful places but not much unpacking had begun yet. Ashley woke up early and made her way into the kitchen. Denise had gone out the previous day and picked up groceries and household items they would need.

She quickly made a bowl of cereal and brought it back to her room. With everyone staying in the condo her room had been her only form of sanctuary, although AJ hadn’t bothered her since she yelled at him. She could tell he was hurting but this time she just couldn’t bring herself to feel sorry for him. She was doing exactly what she needed to be doing and that was focusing on herself and her new life, a life that didn’t include him or the drama that came along with him.

When she finished her cereal she changed into a bathing suit, throwing on a pair of shorts over it. She rummaged threw a box quickly finding her sunscreen and beach bag. After she double-checked for everything she would need she left a quick note letting Denise know she would be at the beach and took off walking. She was so happy to only live a few blocks away. Ashley had been dying to check out the beach since they arrived and she knew that it was the perfect place to clear her mind.

She walked along the hot sand until she found a good spot. Laying down her towel she sat atop it and put on some sunscreen while taking in the beautiful ocean view. Although it was the end of summer and early in the morning there were still plenty of people around. She smiled watching some of the younger children play along the shoreline with their friends, running away from the waves as they approached, laughing and screaming. She wished her life could be that simple again.

Deciding to push all the bad thoughts out of her mind for the time being she reached in her bag pulling out her music player. After she decided what to listen to she laid back on her towel closing her eyes and letting the warm sun touch her skin.


Ashley had been lying on the beach for about an hour now and she was beginning to feel really relaxed and at ease. She reached up and took a big sip from her water bottle just as a brown object came flying at her.

“Watch out!” someone yelled as the football landed mere inches away from her head. She screamed jumping up from her position. She grabbed the ball and looked around her ready to lay into the owner for not being more careful, until she saw him jogging towards her.

“I’m really sorry about that.” He smiled down at her. She found herself almost speechless looking back up at him. He was about 5’9 with dark brown hair and piercing green eyes. His smile could melt even the coldest heart and he had the body of a god…a very nicely tanned god.

“You know you should tell your friend over there to watch where he’s throwing this thing next time.” She smirked back at him.

“Yea, he doesn’t always have the best aim.” He laughed a little. “It didn’t hit you did it?”

“Nope just missed me…guess his aim isn’t half bad after all.” She teased.

“Come on man, throw the ball!” his friend yelled from a few yards down.

“Allow me.” She smiled and set the ball in her hand sending it flying back over to him gracefully. It was times like these she was glad she spent her free time on the Millennium tour playing football with the road crew.

“That’s some arm.” He looked at her with a raised eyebrow as she walked back to her towel.

“What can I say, I’m just good like that.” She bit her lip flirting with him with her eyes. She didn’t know where this confidence was coming from but she didn’t care because he seemed to like it.

“Yea. You are.” He smiled looking her up and down. “I haven’t seen you around here all summer, where have you been hiding out?”

“Orlando.” She laughed. “I just moved out here on Monday.”

“What brings you all the way out here?” he said as his friend ran over interrupting them.

“Come on man, what’s the holdup.” He said not noticing Ashley standing there. “Oh, hi.” He turned on the charm once he saw her and looked back at his friend. “I’ll just be over there.”

“Mind if I sit?” the boy asked as Ashley took a seat on her towel again.

“Not at all.” She smiled as he sat next to her.

“I’m Derek by the way.” He extended his hand and she shook it introducing herself as well. “So as I was saying what brings you all the way out here?”

“School actually. I just transferred to Huntington Beach High School.”

“Oh, you’re an Academy kid huh?” he asked.

“Is that a bad thing?” she raised an eyebrow.

“No, not at all.” He laughed a little at her apprehension, thinking it was cute. “I just knew cuz’ the only kids who ever transfer to HB are in the Academy. So what year are you?”

“A freshman.” She said timidly.

“Oh ok that’s cool. I’m a junior actually.” He smiled at her. ‘God what a smile.’ She thought to herself as he continued. “I wouldn’t have taken you for a freshman, you look...I dunno like more mature then most of the freshman at HB.”

“I guess I’m just not your average girl.” She smirked a little.

“Listen, my friends and I are having a party tonight…” he started but was interrupted by Ashley’s cell phone ringing.

She recognized the ring tone and sighed as she picked it up, not bothering to check the caller ID.

“What?” she tried to sound at least a little nice, not wanting Derek to think she was mean.

“Mom needs you to come home.” He said dryly. He had really been put down since she last told him off.

“Why? She didn’t say we had anything to do today.”

“Look I don’t know. She said she’s having someone over and wants you to meet her. All I know is she said you need to get home.” He said frustrated.

“Fine, whatever.” She rolled her eyes and hung up the phone. “I hate to bail but I have to get home. Something about my mom having company over.”

“It’s no big.” He reassured her. “You think you can get out of the house for a little tonight? Like I said my friends and I are having a party down by Rocky Point.”

“I’d have to ask. I guess it all depends on who’s coming over. Why don’t you give me your number and I’ll give you a call a little later.” She smiled handing him her phone.

“Don’t worry about what time. If you can get free just call me up, I have the car so I can come pick you up.” He got up and reached his hand down helping her up to her feet.

“Sounds good.” She smiled gathering her stuff. “I guess I’ll see you later then.”

“Later.” He smiled and watched her walk off.
Chapter 35 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley walked back into the Condo a short while later kicking off her sandals and dropping her bag at the door. She walked into the living room where she found Denise sitting with AJ and Marcus.

“Hi.” She smiled at Denise a little as she walked into the room.

“Did you have fun at the beach?” Denise smiled inviting her to sit down next to her. “You look nice and tan.”

“Yea. It’s so nice over there, do you mind if I take a quick shower though? I feel all sandy and gross.” She made a face laughing.

“Just be really quick. I have someone coming over that I want you to meet and I have a few places I need to run to today.”

“I’ll be quick.” She said as she made her way to her room.

“I don’t think she’s gonna like this very much.” AJ said once she was out of earshot. Denise had already filled him in on who Kathy was and why she was coming over.

“Well she has no choice.” Denise said firmly. “This isn’t just about the problems the two of you have been having, it’s about her attitude in general. I don’t like all the things she’s been getting into, being brought home by the cops for drinking at fourteen is unacceptable. If she won’t talk to either of us about what’s going on maybe bringing in someone will work.”

“You didn’t tell me that she got brought home by the cops.” AJ raised an eyebrow in concern. ”When did that happen?”

“A couple of weeks before you went into rehab.” She sighed. “You were so stressed out on the road I didn’t want you to have anything else to worry about.”

“This is all my fault.” He sighed holding in the tears that were threatening to fall. “None of this crap started until I messed up that weekend I was supposed to watch her.”

“Alex, none of this is your fault.” Denise reassured him. “I’ll tell you exactly what I told her, she is old enough to know the difference between right and wrong. She chose to drink because everyone else was doing it and they were bored. It has nothing to do with you, so don’t blame yourself.”

“I guess you’re right.” He sighed but Denise could see the doubt in his eyes. She placed a reassuring hand on top of his and smiled at him.

“Things will get better.” She said as the doorbell rang. She stood and answered the door letting Kathy in. She greeted her and led her into the living room introducing her to AJ and Marcus.

“Alex here is more then willing to be open and talk with you, Ashley on the other hand might be a little more trouble. I haven’t exactly told her you were coming yet.” Denise confided.

“And believe me she won’t be happy.” AJ chimed in.

“Well all I want to do is talk to her and see how she’s feeling.” Kathy smiled.

“Talk to me about what?” Ashley said from the doorway. Everyone turned around to find her standing there with her arms crossed.

“Why don’t you come sit over here. I have someone I want to introduce you to.” Denise smiled at her hoping she wouldn’t catch an attitude.

Ashley sighed and walked over plopping herself down on the couch.

“Ashley this is a good friend of mine, Kathy Pierce.” Denise introduced her. “Kathy this is my little fire cracker of a daughter, Ashley.”

Ashley smiled fakely at her and shook her extended hand. She looked at Denise wondering what this was all about.

“Ashley, Kathy is a family psychiatrist and I asked her to come here today to talk with you and Alex about the problems you’ve been having.” Ashley went to speak but Denise stopped her. “I know there are some things that you don’t want me to know about and that’s fine, for that reason I won’t be here while you three talk. Anything you speak to Kathy about is confidential I will have no knowledge of what is said here today.”

“What if I don’t wanna talk?” Ashley asked her smile quickly fading.

“Then you can sit here quietly and listen to what Alex has to say.” Kathy said.

Ashley sat back and crossed her arms her lips pursed as she just stared at the wall. She didn’t want to have to talk to him, especially not around some stranger but she knew she had no choice, especially if she wanted to get out of the house tonight.

Kathy followed Denise to the door as she was leaving.

“Kathy thank you so much for coming in here today, good luck with Ashley, I know she can be hardheaded but she’s just hurting.”

“I’m sure I’ll figure out a way to get threw to her. Believe me I’ve dealt with worse.” She reassured her.

“Marcus is upstairs if anything gets too out of hand, but I’m sure you have everything under control.” She grabbed her purse from the door. “I’ll see you in a few hours.”



“You know this little brat act that you have going on is getting old.” AJ said as soon as Kathy and Denise exited the room.

Ashley glared at him giving him the finger. He shook his head and rolled his eyes.

Kathy re entered the room and smiled over at Ashley who in turn rolled her eyes and looked in the opposite direction.

“Alex, would you mind sitting on the couch with Ashley this way I can speak openly with both of you?” she asked.

“No problem.” He smiled and took a seat on the other end of the couch.

“So Alex, since Ashley doesn’t seem to want to be here we’ll just pretend like she’s not.” Kathy said and AJ nodded in agreement.

She knew the best way to deal with her would be to not push her into talking but let her start on her own. The only way to catch her attention was to ignore her just as she was pretending to ignore them.

“So why don’t you tell me how this all began. The arguing that is.” Kathy asked.

“Well I think it all starts back when I moved out to California about a year and a half ago. I kind of just made that decision without talking to anyone about it. Ashley lost her mom a few months before and she was scared of loosing me too. As much as I promised her things wouldn’t change once I moved out here I got involved with some of the wrong people and started pulling myself more and more away from my family. I was making the conscious decision to do it because I didn’t want to have to deal with the pressure of being there for everyone but I wasn’t realizing how much it was hurting everyone else.” He looked at Ashley from the corner of his eye and saw the hurt that she was trying to cover by anger.

“Ok well now let’s fast forward a little, when was the first time you guys really fought.” Denise had filled Kathy in on a few things before she came in so she wanted to try and get to the main source of all the anger.

“It was in December. I had missed out on a lot of things since I moved out to California and Ashley had been bugging me for weeks about coming to see her in her school play. I made it all the way out there and was getting ready to go and everything but I got sidetracked…” he trailed off not really wanting to say why he didn’t show up.

‘How do I explain that one.’ He thought to himself. He knew if it was just drugs or alcohol it would sound better then ‘hey I had the opportunity to sleep with three girls and I couldn’t give it up.’ He knew it wasn’t a good excuse but he also knew that he couldn’t lie to Ashley.

He took a deep breath and continued. “I’m not gonna say I’m proud of this but I was high at the time and the girl I was sleeping with offered to invite over some friends if I would stay. Needless to say I missed her play and Ashley was very upset that I didn’t show up. When she confronted me I said some things that I really didn’t mean.”

Ashley couldn’t help but scoff at this comment shaking her head. Kathy looked at him urging him to continue and ignore her.

“She didn’t talk to me for a while and then I was supposed to baby sit her while my mom went out of town for a few days. She thought it would be a good way for us to try and set things straight but I thought it was just a hassle.” He said honestly. “Her friend was there too and I didn’t want to waste my time watching two teenage girls when I had just been surrounded by them on tour.”

“Then why did you agree to do it?” Kathy asked.

“In all honesty mom had been questioning me on my behaviors so I figured if things went well she would stay off my back for a while.”

“And how did it go?”

“Those few days were when everything really exploded.” He sighed rubbing his head as he continued. “Ashley decided to skip school with her friends and I came home early. Instead of being a responsible adult and punishing her I decided to use it to my advantage and I blackmailed her into staying with a friend for the week so I could have the house to myself to party.”

Kathy glanced over at Ashley who was now tapping her foot on the nearby table. She could tell she was reaching her breaking point so she urged AJ to continue.

“My mom decided to come home early and I again blackmailed Ashley into cleaning up the house, that’s when she found some of my drugs. When she confronted me about it I didn’t know what to do and I flipped out on her, again a lot was said that I didn’t mean but I was angry at her for snooping in my room and butting in. I know she was only doing it because she cared but at that moment I wasn’t in the right frame of mind. I guess what I said really upset her because the next day she came home with a major hangover.”

Ashley shifted uncomfortably in her seat. She didn’t like the fact that they were talking about her but she knew they were waiting for her to jump in and defend herself and she didn’t want to give them the satisfaction of getting to her.

“So it sounds like you’ve said a lot of things that you regret…do you remember what those things were?” Kathy asked.

“In all honesty, no.” he sighed

Ashley could feel herself becoming more and more angry with every word he spoke. How could he not forget all the hurtful things he had said to her? She couldn’t take it anymore.

“How could you not remember?” she yelled her voice starling him at first. “How’s about I jog your memory for you a little.”

He looked at her and saw the tears threatening to fall from her eyes. Kathy kept quiet knowing Ashley needed to let all her emotions out.

“How’s about I got a life and incase you haven’t realized it doesn’t revolve around you…or what about the time you called me an ungrateful bitch who only cared about your money…or that you didn’t need me…or the millions times you told me to stay out of your life, or the time you ignored me the whole three days I was at your house and tried to convince mom that I wasn’t good enough for the Academy oh wait and here’s my favorite…you’re dead to me.” She stared him in the eyes emotionless, making him uncomfortable. He looked away from her tears now threatening his eyes. He hadn’t realized all the hurtful things he had said to her and that she remembered them word for word.

“I’m sorry.” Was all he could manage to say, still not having the guts to face her dark eyes that were filled with pain.

Kathy took a deep breath before speaking. “How did you feel when he said all of that to you?”

“I didn’t feel anything. I don’t care what he says and I don’t care what he does.” She lied.

“Ashley you’re never going to feel better if you don’t get this off of your chest. Even if you don’t want to talk to him afterwards you deserve to tell him how you feel.”

“It really hurt.” She said quietly. “And I was really scared.”

“Why?”

“He didn’t care that what he was doing could kill him. I lost my mom I didn’t wanna loose my best friend too.” She quickly wiped the tears that were falling from her eyes.

“Did you tell him how you felt?” Kathy asked.

“He didn’t care, he only cares about himself.” She stopped wiping away the tears and just let them fall freely. “I can’t care anymore.”

“I’m so sorry… I didn’t realize how much I was hurting you.” He reached out to hug her.

“Don’t touch me.” She said coldly pushing him away from her. “Just because I’m talking to her doesn’t mean that I’m forgiving you. I’m doing this for myself.”

“Ok…I’m…I’m sorry.” He sighed looking down in front of him.

“Can we be done now?” she asked seeing how hurt he was. She didn’t want to be so mean to him but she couldn’t help it.

“Yes. We can be done now.” Kathy said as she looked over at AJ who was visibly on the verge of tears. She looked back at Ashley and saw the sorrow in her eyes. Ashley looked at him a moment longer before getting up and retreating to her room.

“She’ll come around.” Kathy smiled at AJ a little. “She said how she was feeling and that’s a big step. She wants to reconnect with you, I can see it in her eyes, I just don’t think she knows how to trust you just yet. You need to figure out a way to show her that you’re sorry rather then just saying it.”

“How do I do that?” he asked looking up with tear filled eyes. “I’d do anything to make things right again.”

“That I can’t tell you.” Kathy sighed. “I’m sure you’ll figure something out.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

After speaking with AJ for a little longer Kathy was on her way. She called Denise letting her know that she was finished, not getting into detail of the accounts of the afternoon. Ashley was un-packing clothes looking for something to wear later on. She was hoping she could convince Denise to let her go out tonight.

She heard Denise come home and walked out into the living room making sure to put on a fake smile.

“Hi mom.” She said taking a seat next to her on the couch.

“How are you feeling?” she asked.

“Good.” She smiled knowing she was just going to have to go for it. “Do we have anything to do tonight?”

“I was hoping we would all have dinner together. I know things aren’t perfect but Alex is leaving tomorrow night and it will be a while until we see him again.” Denise smiled at her.

“I guess one dinner wouldn’t kill me.” She sighed.

“That was a little too easy…what are you after?” Denise was onto her.

“I was hoping I could maybe go somewhere tonight. I met this kid at the beach and he goes to my school and he invited me to a party.” She said timidly.

“I don’t know how I feel about that. Where exactly is this party?” Denise asked.

“Some place called Rocky Point. He said he would pick me up and bring me home and I’d meet a lot of kids from my school.” She tried to sway her before she could say no.

“Ashley, I’m glad you’re trying to make friends quickly but we just moved her. I don’t know the area and I can’t just let you go off with some boy in a car alone. You don’t know anything about him, what kind of driver he is, or who’s going to be at this party. I don’t think it’s a good idea.” She said.

“That’s not fair!” she pouted crossing her arms huffing in anger.

“You can’t expect me to just let you go off like that when we’ve only been here for a few days. Maybe after I have a chance to meet this boy, but not tonight.” Denise tried to make her point.

“I never get to do anything!” she whined.

“Dinner’s in twenty minutes.” Denise ignored her giving her a look letting her know she better cut out her attitude

“I’m not hungry.” she just sighed and retreated to her room making sure to slam the door shut. If she wasn't getting her way there was no way she was playing nice and sitting down to dinner with everyone.

Ashley threw herself down on her bed frustrated that Denise kept treating her like a child. She turned over and grabbed her cell phone off the nightstand finding Derek’s number in her phone book. She hit dial and waited for him to pick up.

“Hello?” he said after a few rings.

“Derek? This is Ashley…from the beach earlier.”

“I thought so. What’s going on…you coming out with me tonight?”

“As long as you don’t mind leaving a little late. I have to wait for my mom to go to bed. She’s usually out around 10.” She said hoping he wouldn’t mind.

“Party doesn’t really hit it off until 11 anyway…how’s about I come scoop you up around 10:30?”

“Sounds good to me…I’m at the condos on Woodbury. I’ll be down by the front so we don’t have to worry about the gate.”

“See you then sweetie.” He said and hung up.
Chapter 36 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
wow 2 chapters in 1 day haha only cuzz it was so nicely requested
Ashley put her phone down and walked into her closet where she where she had finally unpacked all of her clothes. She wanted to be casual but she knew she wanted to make an impression. Sighing she looked threw the shirts on the shelves. She finally decided on a denim mini skirt she had bought on her last shopping trip with Angel and a cute pink tank top. She laid the clothes out on her bed and made her way into the kitchen. She knew Denise would want to talk to her before she went to bed so she sucked it up and decided to apologize for her little outburst so could go unbothered for the rest of the night.

“Hey.” She smiled timidly as she walked into the small dining room off the kitchen.

“Deciding to join us?” Denise asked looking up from her meal.

“It smelt good.” She took a seat across from AJ as Denise passed her a plate. “I’m sorry about how I acted earlier…it’s just been a crazy day, I wasn’t thinking.”

“It’s alright sweetheart. I understand you want to make friends here but I also have to think of your safety.” Denise smiled at her.

“I know.” She sighed taking a few bites of her food. She felt bad lying but it wasn’t going to kill anyone for her to go out and have a little fun. She quickly finished her dinner and stood up bringing her plate to the kitchen.

“Can I be excused.” She said walking back into the room faking a yawn. “It’s been a long day, I’m really tired.”

“Sure sweetie.” Denise smiled. “Have a good night.”

“Night.” She hugged her. She looked at AJ and sighed deciding to be nice for once. “Good night.”

“Night kiddo.” He smiled a little, glad that she at least acknowledged him.

Ashley walked back into her room and glanced at the clock. It was already nine and she still needed to get ready and figure out exactly how she was going to sneak out.

When she was finished getting ready she glanced at the clock again. It was now ten. She knew she would have to start making her way out soon.

She opened her door and heard voices coming from the living room. She walked down the hall a little and peeked in seeing Marcus and AJ sitting on the couch watching South Park.

‘They can’t just make this easy and go to bed?’ she thought to herself as she made her way back to her room. She knew the front door was out of the question now. That left her either the back door or her window.

She opened her window and looked down. It was about five feet from the ground. She knew she could make the jump, she just didn’t want to get dirty. Looking at the clock once more she knew Derek would be there soon. Feeling it was a little breezy she grabbed a light sweater and her purse and cell phone. She pulled her desk chair over to the window and got on top of it. She climbed out the window and jumped down to the ground landing on her feet.

“And she sticks the landing.” She laughed as she made her way down the walkway and towards the front gate. She was there for about five minutes when Derek pulled up in his black BMW.

‘God, even his car is hot.’ She thought to herself as the drivers side window rolled down.

“Glad you could get out of the house.” He smiled at her. She made her way to the passenger side and got in. She smiled at him shyly as he pulled away from the curb.

“So how far away is this party?” she looked over at him as he drove.

“Only about 15 minutes away. Rocky Point is where we always hang out. It’s towards the end of the boardwalk. We have a nice bon fire set up and a few kegs. Do you drink?”

“I’m not too big on beer but I guess I can settle.” She teased.

“Oh really? What do you prefer then?” he laughed.

“The real deal…vodka, tequila, mixed drinks.” She smirked. “Beer is good too there’s just way to many calories. Gotta watch the figure.”

“Please. Have you looked in the mirror? You have an awesome body.” He looked her up and down. “I’m sure a few beers wouldn’t kill you.”

She knew he was laying it on thick but she didn’t care, he was beyond gorgeous and he thought she was pretty. She was eating it up and he knew it. A few minutes later they pulled up to the parking lot. Derek got out of the car and opened the door for her. She smiled at him as she got out of the car. He took her hand and led her down to the beach where a group of people had already assembled around a bon fire. There was music playing and people dancing and talking.

“Derek! My man what’s up!” Ashley recognized his friend from the beach as he approached them.

“Hey Donner.” He greeted him.

“You’re that chick from the beach today right?” he turned his attention to Ashley.

“Yea, Ashley.” She introduced herself.

“Sorry about almost hitting you.” He laughed.

“It’s all good, I’m still in one piece.” She smiled at him.

“Why don’t we go get something to drink?” Derek said placing a hand on her waist leading her to the area where the kegs were set up.

About an hour later and a few beers down Ashley began to loosen up. Everyone had been really nice and welcoming towards her except for one girl who kept glaring at her.

“Who’s that girl who keeps staring over here?” she asked.

“Oh who Tiffany?” Derek looked over at the girl and rolled his eyes. “Just ignore her. That’s Donner’s little sister, she kinda has a thing for me but she’s not really my type…doesn’t know how to have fun.”

“Can’t say I blame her there.” She smirked at him as she licked her lips. “But I know how to have fun.”

“Wanna go dance?” Derek smiled back at her. She nodded and he took her hand leading her closer to the bon fire.

She turned, her back facing him as he pulled her body to his. She grinded her hips in time with the music as he held her close. She jumped a little when she felt his lips on her neck, but warmed up to his kisses. He placed a hand on her waist turning her to face him as they continued to dance. He looked down at her and smirked before lowering his mouth to hers kissing her gently before parting her lips with his tongue. She was hesitant at first but then welcomed his kiss. She felt his hands slide from her waist to her butt and she pulled away from him.

“What?” he asked catching his breath.

“I shouldn’t be doing this…I just met you,” she shook her head a little trying to regain control of the situation. “and especially not with all these people around.”

“Why don’t we go for a walk?” He smiled and leaned down kissing her quick.

She smiled at him and nodded as he took her hand and led her down the beach. After walking for about five minutes Derek stopped and took a seat in the sand pulling Ashley down next to him. She sat down and he laid back in the sand resting his hands behind his head and staring up at the sky.

“There are a lot of stars out tonight.” He finally spoke a few moments later.

“Yea.” Ashley said timidly still sitting in her spot next to him. He sat back up putting an arm around her shoulder and smiling at her.

“I’m sorry about earlier…I was just in the moment. I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.”

“You didn’t…I’m just not big on PDA.” She laughed a little and smiled back at him. Their eyes locked and he leaned in again taking her into a deep kiss.

As he kissed her he leaned her back into the sand. She wrapped her arms around his neck as he hovered over her. As their kisses intensified he decided to try and make another move on her hoping since they were alone she wouldn’t stop him. He slowly slid one hand up her shirt and much to his surprise she let him.

A little while later Ashley felt him removing his hand from her shirt. It was then moved to her thigh. She froze as she felt him move his hand further up, pushing him away from her.

“What’s wrong?” he asked looking down at her.

“I can’t do this.” She said.

“What are you talking about?” he looked at her confused. “I though you said you liked to have fun.”

“Hooking up with you is one thing but I just met you…I’m not gonna have sex with you.” She looked at him as if he were insane.

“What happened to ‘I’m not your average girl.’ “he said visibly angry that she had stopped him.

“Last time I checked that didn’t mean easy.” She gave him a dirty look.

“Babe, being with me is a one way ticket to everything at HB. You would really wanna give that all up cuz’ you don’t wanna put out?”

She stared at him in disbelief. She couldn’t believe she had actually fallen for all the game that he was throwing at her.

“At least I’ll still have my dignity and self respect.”

“Whatever, you’re a fuckin tease just like all those other stupid girls.” He rolled his eyes getting up and brushing the sand off of him. “Good luck getting home.”

She stared at him in disbelief…was he really just going to leave her to find her own way home just because she wouldn’t have sex with him? He really was an ass hole.

“I’m screwed.” She sighed as she walked along the beach back to where the parking lot was.

She pulled out her cell phone seeing it was already one in the morning. She knew she only had two options and although in the end she didn't know which one was worse she knew who she had to call.

She hit the speed dial on her phone and waited for a response.

“Hello?” answered the raspy voice after a few rings. She could tell he had been sleeping and she knew he would be pissed.

“Hey Alex.” She said nervously.

“Ashley?” he finally looked at the caller ID. “Why the hell are you calling me from your…” he stopped mid sentence “you better be calling me from your room.”

“Funny story…” she started but he cut her off.

“Where are you?” she couldn’t tell if the infliction in his voice was anger or nervousness.

“You can’t tell mom but I went to that party and I need you to come pick me up.”

“Where are you?” he sighed.
Chapter 37 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry this update took forever I had a big project due this week that consumed my life...but the wait was worth it I promise! ENJOY! and please leave feedback on this chapter it was one of the hardest ones i've had to write and i wanna know what more of you guys think THANKS!
Ashley sat on the steps leading to the boardwalk waiting for AJ to arrive. She knew he was going to be pissed but she prayed she could convince him to not say anything to Denise.

She was angry with herself for being stupid enough to fall for all of Derek’s games and mad at him for thinking she would be that easy. She knew AJ was going to yell at her when he got there and she was trying hard to hold back her tears. She saw his truck pull into the parking lot and she quickly wiped her eyes as the truck came to a stop in front of her. She could see Marcus was driving and she could see the pissed off expression on AJ’s face. She climbed into the backseat just waiting for him to explode.

“Are you really serious right now?” AJ said turning to face her. “What were you thinking sneaking out of the house…and don’t pull that silent treatment crap on me. I want answers or I’ll let mom get them from you.”

“I just wanted to get out of the house and have some fun.” She said tears building up in her eyes again. “It was stupid.”

“You’re damn right it was stupid! Something could have happened to you!” he yelled at her causing the tears she had been fighting back to begin to fall. “What is going on with you lately?”

“Nothing.” She wiped her eyes as more tears fell. “Can we just go home.”

“No. Not until you tell me what’s going on with you. I mean sneaking out of the house? I thought you were smarter then that.”

“There was this cute guys and I wanted to spend some time with him.”

“You risk being grounded for ever or worse getting hurt for some guy you barely know? You didn’t even know what kind of party he was taking you to. What if he would have brought you somewhere and tried to take advantage of you Ashley? You need to start thinking.”

“I know it was really stupid.” Ashley stared down at her hands.

He looked at her trying to study her face. He could read her like a book and he knew there was something else going on.

“Ashley did something happen tonight?” he asked but she wouldn’t answer him. “Ashley look at me right now.”

She looked up at him her eyes full of tears.
“Did he do something to you? Who is he I’ll fucking kill him” he said about to jump out of the truck.

“No, nothing happened.” She said quickly before he went on a rampage killing every guy on the beach. “He just got some mixed signals.”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” he yelled again.

“Can this just wait until tomorrow?” she asked.

“Look me in the eyes and tell me nothing happened and we can finish this conversation tomorrow.” AJ sighed knowing neither of them were in the state of mind to talk rationally.

“I swear nothing happened.” She looked him dead in the eyes. “He’s just a jerk, that’s all.”

“Let’s get home.” AJ said to Marcus and he pulled away.

“You’re not getting out of talking about this tomorrow though.” He warned her. “Cuz like I said before you either explain to me or explain to mom.”

“Ok.” She sighed staring out the window.

He looked at her and was still uneasy about what had really gone on that night but he knew he had to drop it. If he pushed her too much she would close up again.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley laid in bed the next morning staring at the ceiling. She really hadn’t slept much that night. Although she had been up for a while she was too afraid to get out of bed. She still wasn’t sure exactly what AJ was expecting from her today but she was going to wait as long as possible to find out.

About twenty minutes later there was a knock on her door. She rolled over to see AJ poking his head in.

“Good you’re up.” He smiled at her “Mom just went out for a little.”

She sighed and sat up in bed not saying anything.

“There’s breakfast out…why don’t you eat a little some thing and then me and you can talk.” He said as she got out of bed and threw on a sweatshirt. She just nodded and walked by him and into the kitchen.

Ashley wasn’t in the mood for eggs so she settled for a bowl of cereal and some toast. She could see AJ out of the corner of her eye lingering around the doorway waiting for her to finish. She finished up her breakfast and put her empty bowl in the sink.

“Where do you wanna talk?” he asked as she turned back to him.

She just shrugged and bit her lip nervously.

“Living room ok?” he asked and she just nodded and made her way into the room taking a seat at one end of the couch pulling her knees up to her chest.

“I’m not going to yell at you or anything…don’t be so tense.” He took a seat at the opposite end and faced her.

“Sorry.” She mumbled a little switching to sit with her legs crossed under her. “So…”

“Are you excited to be out here finally?” he asked trying to lighten the mood. He hadn’t spoken to her in a while so he wanted to take the chance to catch up with her while he could. Ashley again just nodded.

“Ash…in order to have a conversation you kinda have to talk back.” He half smiled at her.

“I just feel so stupid.” She finally said looking up at him tears in her eyes again.

“What happened last night?” AJ asked concerned.

“Nothing, honest.” She said not wanting to get into detail about everything that went on.

She knew she had made a mistake, so many different outcomes played through her head. She was stupid to have gone off with someone she didn’t know. She barely slept the night before. Every time she closed her eyes a different scenario of what could have happened to her played throughout her mind.

“Ashley I know something happened, why wont you just talk to me about it.” AJ took her hand and she looked up at him.

“I just feel so stupid.” She let the tears fall from her eyes. “He was just really cute and I thought he liked me.”

“You need to tell me what happened…start from the beginning.” AJ was beginning to get nervous that something serious happened on that beach.

“I met this guy at the beach yesterday and he was really nice.” She started with a deep breath. “Matt has been the only guy who ever liked me so when he was flirting with me I was excited. He was older and he had a car and he was hot so I flirted back.”

AJ looked at her urging her to continue.

“He invited me to the party and I really wanted to go. You know I’m no good at making friends so I figured I could meet people from school there. I knew I couldn’t bail out without looking like a dork, especially when he kept saying that I wasn’t like the typical freshman girls at school.” She quickly wiped her eyes and continued. “So he picked me up and the whole way there he kept complimenting me and being really sweet, he even opened the door for me.” She smiled a little wishing things had stayed that good.

“So what happened to make you want to leave?” AJ asked.

“Well like I said everything was going good. Everyone at the party was really cool and all so he asked me if I wanted to dance and so we were dancing for a little and then he kissed me.” She stopped quickly trying to gauge his expression. He just raised an eyebrow at her and she shook her head.

“I’m fourteen Alex, I can kiss boys.”

“Just keep going.” He said.

“Well there was a lot of people around and I think it’s gross when other people make out in public…” she tried to continue but he cut her off.

“Making out? There’s a difference between making out and just kissing.” He said firmly.

“Oh don’t be so naïve. I’m not some little prude princess. You caught me making out with a boy remember? Now would you like me to finish or not?” she rolled her eyes. He sighed and motioned her to continue not sure how much he wanted to hear the rest of this.

“So then he tried to grab my butt and I yelled at him kinda. He said he was sorry and asked me to take a walk with him on the beach.” She saw AJ’s facial expression change. She knew he wasn’t stupid he probably took plenty of ‘walks’ on the beach with girls.

“So we walked for a little and then he started kissing me again and everything was ok until he tried to take it further.” She bit her lip nervously.

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” AJ raised an eyebrow. She could see he was getting madder.

“He wanted to…” she trailed off knowing he understood her.

AJ was about to speak but she cut him off.

“I didn’t do anything with him I swear.” She said quickly. “I’m not that kid of girl. I yelled at him and told him that I wouldn’t have sex with him. He pretty much told me that that I played him and made him think that I would. I told him that saying I was fun didn’t mean I was easy. Then he proceeded to tell me how my popularity would be set at school if I was with him and that I’d be stupid to give that all up all because I wouldn’t put out.” She saw AJ fuming, ready to kill, she was so glad that he didn’t hear any of this the night before or Derek might be dead.

“I pretty much told him that I’d rather have my dignity and self respect and he told me good luck getting home…hense me calling you. As much as I didn’t want to I figured it was better then mom.” She finally finished looking at him and just waiting for him to go postal.

“Who the hell is this guy?” he spoke after a moment. His voice sounded very calm, a little too calm for Ashley’s liking.

“I’m not telling you Alex, you’d kill him.”

“Damn right I’d fucking kill him. He tried to take advantage of you!” his calmness was now nowhere in sight.

“I already handled it. Nothing happened, it’s done and over with.”

“But Ashley something could have happened! There’s not much of a fight that you could put up against a guy. He could have easily done whatever he wanted to you. Do you not realize that?”

“I’m not stupid Alex I know that! I barely slept last night because all I could think about was what if?” the tears were beginning to fall from her eyes again as she remembered the dreams she had the previous night of Derek forcing himself on her. The dreams were so vivid and real it was almost as if it actually did happen.

“I know you’re not a little kid anymore and you’re having all these different feelings and stuff but you have to start making smarter decisions…”

“We are not having “the talk”.” She cut him off.

AJ couldn’t help but laugh. “All I’m trying to say is there’s not always gonna be someone there to help you out of the messes.” AJ said placing a hand on her shoulder as she wiped away some of her tears. “And I’d probably have a heart attack but when you’re ready to start having sex, which I’m hoping won’t be for a long, long…extremely long time, if you have any questions you can talk to me.”

“Long, long time…right.” She turned away a little. She knew he would freak out on her if he knew the truth so she just kept quiet.

“I’m really glad you called me last night.” He said after a moment. She was glad he hadn’t noticed her hesitance. “Not so much the circumstances…but I’m glad you could count on me for something.”

“You’re not off the hook. I’m still mad at you.” She said looking back at him.

“I know…but it’s a start, right?” he asked hopefully.

“Are you gonna tell mom?”

“I think this can stay between us…as long as you promise me that you won’t do something like this again.”

“I promise.” She smiled at him. “I’ll be smarter.”

“There’s one more condition.”

“Which is?” she gave him an uncertain look. He stood up and opened his arms wide grinning at her awaiting a hug.

“You’re not gonna make this easy are you?” she shook her head.

“C’mon. You know you wanna.” He egged her on widening his arms more.

She sighed laughing as she got up from the couch and hugged him. He joked a little at first rocking them back and forth then pulled her in tighter really hugging her. He pulled away and looked at her with serious in his face.

“Please tell me that we’ll be ok again.”

She smiled at him and pulled him back into another hug. “Eventually.”

He smiled at the hope that eventually would come soon.

“You know I love you right?” he asked as she pulled away from him.

“I know.” She smiled and started back for her room. When she was at the doorway she turned back around. “I love you too.”
Chapter 38 by AshleyNicoleFans
It had been three weeks since that night at the beach and Ashley had kept herself away from there not wanting to see Derek or any of his friends. She was starting school that coming Monday and she was nervous as to how things would be if she ran into him.

The past three weeks had been especially challenging on everyone. AJ went back out on tour with the boys and he was getting readjusted to the routine. Although things were better between the two Ashley still didn’t talk to him much, but she was trying. The second year anniversary of her mother’s death had just recently passed too. It was hard for Ashley to believe that two years had gone by so quickly. She had changed so much in the past two years, for better and for worse. Ashley knew her mom would have been disappointed by some of the decisions she had recently made, but she also knew that she would be proud of her for going after her dreams and accomplishing her goals.


Monday came around quicker then Ashley had expected. She groaned as her alarm clock sounded. She turned over and smacked the button shutting off the annoying buzzing noise. She stared at her ceiling for a few moments before sitting up and tossing off the covers. As she stood up she stretched and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. She trudged sleepily over to her closet and grabbed the clothes she had set out already making her way to her bathroom to wash her face and brush her teeth.

When she was finished getting dressed she quickly did her hair and put on some makeup. She made her way to the kitchen and found Denise putting a plate of eggs down with some juice. She looked up and smiled as Ashley walked into the kitchen taking a seat at the table.

“I was just about to come make sure you were awake.” Denise said taking a seat across from her.

“I wanted to make sure I had time to straighten my hair.” She smiled taking a bite of her breakfast. “What time does the bus come?”

“In about 20 minutes.” Denise said as she checked the clock.

She watched Ashley as she ate her breakfast. She could see the apprehension on her face.

“You’ll be great.” Denise said trying to boost her confidence. “I’m sure you’ll make plenty of friends.”

“Yea.” Ashley smiled a little as she finished her juice. “I’m gonna go make sure I have everything in my bag. I have to get down to the gate soon.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley walked threw the doors of Huntington Beach High School and took a deep breath looking around. This school was so much different from her other schools. Walking the halls here was almost like walking a runway during fashion week. She was glad that she decided to dress to impress. She grabbed her schedule from her pocket and quickly found her locker number. She knew it was on the ground floor but she hated wandering around new schools looking confused. She started out down the hall and was relieved to find her locker right away. The first bell sounded and she made her way to her homeroom class.

The day seemed to progress rather slowly. Each class was the same, receive your seat assignments get a short introduction of what they would be learning and then get your books. None of her classes seemed over challenging and most of her teachers seemed to be nice. Lunchtime came and went quickly and Ashley was glad. She had yet to meet anyone so she sat at a table outside in the courtyard alone wishing she had her friends from home there with her. She had managed to avoid seeing Derek most of the day. The one time she did see him he just pushed passed her laughing with his friends. She just wished the day would end so she could get home and rest.

The end of the school day had finally arrived and Ashley was relieved. She was happy that her academy classes didn’t start until the following week. She was putting away the last of her books when she heard someone clear their throat trying to get her attention. She turned around to be greeted by three blondes looking at her with fake smiles. She recognized one of them. It was Tiffany, the girl who kept glaring at her the night at the beach.

“Umm hi.” She said looking at them questionably. “Can I help you?”

“You’re Ashley, right?” Tiffany asked.

“Yea.” She saw the other girls looking her over and laughing. “Do you need something? I have to go catch my bus.”

“Just to warn you that you need to stay away from Derek.” She crossed her arms. “He’s mine and I don’t need any stupid little freshman trying to get in the way. Believe me you don’t want to get any further on my bad side.”

“You can have Derek, believe me I don’t want him.” Ashley laughed.

“That’s not what he said.” She pursed her lips at her.

“Well I haven’t even talked to him since that party so I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She turned her attention away from them rolling her eyes as she finished gathering her things.

“I know you had sex with him that night.” She blurted out catching Ashley’s attention.

Ashley turned back around and looked at her like she was crazy.

“He told us all about it, how you practically begged him to have sex with you and how pathetic it was.”

Ashley fought back tears of anger and the urge to rip her head off as the two girls snickered behind Tiffany.

“We didn’t have sex.” She could feel her heart beating so fast from the anger it felt like it would explode out of her chest.

“Oh give me a break.” Tiffany rolled her eyes. “Everyone saw you all over him that night and then you two just go off together…”

“I did not have sex with him. I barely knew him!” Ashley defended herself.

“You made your poor choices don’t try and cover them up now. Everyone already knows you’re a little skank.”

Ashley glared at her, eyes filled with tears.

“Oh what are you gonna cry now?” Tiffany mocked her laughing as Ashley fought to hold back her tears.

“You’re asshole of a friend is a liar.” She slammed her locker and walked away from them.

Ashley couldn’t bear to be around people at the moment, not those same people who were all thinking the same thing about her. She never thought he would go that far and now she didn’t know what to do. She started the mile walk home giving herself some time to think things threw.

When she walked through the front door of the condo about 20 minutes later she wanted nothing more then to go straight to her room and cry. She had no idea what to do. No one even knew about that night on the beach, except for AJ.

She passed by the living room where Denise was sitting, reading a book, trying to go unnoticed, with no luck.

“How was your first day of school?” Denise asked looking up from her book.

“Fine.” Ashley said and kept walking.

“Did you make any friends?” Denise called to her.

“No.” she said simply before shutting her door hoping Denise wouldn’t push the matter further. After a moment, when there was no knock on the door she knew she was in the clear. Throwing her bag into the corner of the room she plopped down on her bed and finally let the tears fall. She couldn’t believe this was happening to her. She already felt bad enough for being that stupid that night and now she had to deal with this when she didn’t do anything to begin with.

After about twenty minutes of crying Ashley finally decided she had to talk to someone. She went to her bad and grabbed her phone. Sitting back on her bed she hit the speed dial and waited for someone to pick up,

“Hey Ashley.” Said the voice from the other side, although it wasn’t who she expected.

“Oh hey Marcus…where’s Alex?” she asked.

“He’s actually in an interview with the boys right now.” Marcus informed her. “It just started so they’ll be at least another hour.”

“Oh ok.” She sighed. “Can you just tell him I called please…and it’s kind of important.”

“No problem, I’ll be sure to tell him. Bye hun.” Marcus said as he hung up.

Ashley sighed and tossed her phone to the other side of the bed.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AJ walked out the door of the studio with Brian and Nick close behind him. They had just finished a long interview and AJ was tense. It was one of his first interviews since getting out of rehab and he still wasn’t fully comfortable with talking about everything that went on with him.

“Hey man. You did a good job in there. Sorry they were so tough, we told them to be limited on that stuff.” Brian said as they walked back into the conference room where their belongings were.

“It’s all good man. I have to get used to it I guess.” He shrugged as Marcus walked over.
“Yo man, your sister called about an hour ago…she said it was important.” He told him handing him the cell phone.

“She started school today, probably just wanted to tell me how it was.” He sighed putting the phone in his pocket. He really wasn’t up for a first day of school recap.

“I dunno man, she sounded kind of upset.” He informed him.

“I’ll try and give her a call later. I need to wind down from that interview.” He said walking towards the elevator to head back to the hotel.

“Just make sure you do.” Marcus said.

“I know, I know.” He sighed.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Ashley, dinner.” Denise called to her.

Ashley sighed and pulled herself out of bed. It had been four hours since she had called AJ and he still hadn’t called her back. She went into the bathroom and threw some water on her face trying to clear up the blotchiness and redness from the crying.

She walked into the kitchen and took a seat as Denise placed a plate in front of her. She stared down at the chicken and pasta on her plate not really feeling like eating.

“So how was school?” Denise asked taking a seat.

“It was ok.” She mumbled pushing around the pasta with her fork.

“Are all your teachers nice?” Denise looked at her noting something was wrong.

“Yea.” She took a bite seeing Denise watching her. “I’m just tired, not really in the mood to talk about it.”

“That’s fine.” Denise sighed. “Just finish your dinner and try to get to bed early tonight.”

“I will.”

She quickly ate her dinner and put her plate in the sink. She said good night to Denise and made her way back to her room to check her phone. Still no calls.

“Maybe Marcus just forgot to tell him.” She said to herself as she dialed his number again. After a few rings she got his voice mail.

“Hey Alex…it’s just me. I tried calling earlier but you were busy. I thought maybe Marcus forgot to tell you since I haven’t heard back from you. Please call me back I really need to talk.”
Chapter 39 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley took a deep breath as she walked threw the doors of her school the next day. She again opted for the mile long walk to school not wanting to deal with the close quarters of the school bus. As she walked down the halls she felt like all eyes were on her. In her mind every time she heard someone laugh she thought it was directed towards her even though in reality no one was paying her any mind. She walked to her locker and opened it quickly tossing her bag in.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw two people approaching her. She took a deep breath as they stopped by her locker. She turned her head to acknowledge them before turning her attention back to her locker.

“Ashley, right?” the girl spoke.

“Yes.” Ashley sighed. “and no I didn’t have sex with him, no matter what he says.”

“Umm ok.” The girl laughed a little.

“Isn’t that what you came over here to bug me about?” she said turning back towards them.

“Well no, actually…”

Ashley’s face turned a bright shade of red from embarrassment.

“See my friend here informed me that you’re a Backstreet sister and he is kind of obsessed with Nick Carter and he was too shy to come introduce himself to you.” She pointed to the boy next to her. “We didn’t want to be intrusive but he’s been dying to say hi since yesterday.”

“Well hi.” Ashley couldn’t help but smile at his nervousness. “I’m not related to Nick but I’ve been in the same room as him.” She joked.

“Is he as hot and delicious in person?” he finally blurted out.

“Excuse my friend he’s a little too gay to function sometimes.” The girl laughed.

“It’s ok.” Ashley laughed. “And yes he’s absolutely gorgeous.”

“I would die!” he fanned himself off with his hand.

“I’m Tina by the way and this is Jared.” She smield.

“Ashley.” She smiled back. She froze in her spot as Tiffany and her two friends walked by her glaring. Ashley took a deep breath before she heard Tina speak up.

“Don’t let that evil bitch and her clones get to you.” Tina said seeing the exchanged glances between them.

“It’s not her who’s getting to me.” Ashley sighed. “I’m sorry it’s not your problem, don’t mind me.”

“I saw her talking to you yesterday after school…is that what all this is about? What did she say to you?” Jared asked but Tina smacked him. “I’m sorry I’m being my nosy self.” He apologized.

“It’s ok. It’s just a whole bunch of crap and lies from an arrogant jerk.” She leaned up against her locker.

“Where there’s Tiffany drama there’s usually Derek drama…been there dealt with that.” Tina sighed.

“Really?” Ashley raised an eyebrow at her.

“We’re in the same grade as Derek, freshman year we had a thing going on. That is until little miss Tiffany started liking him. She spent three weeks planting all this fake bullshit to try and convince him I was a lesbian so he would break it off with me.” She rolled her eyes. “It’s such a crock of shit but the world revolves around what them and their stupid little friends say. Even the people who hate them believe it. They know they have the power and they abuse it.”

“I still want to bitch slap her.” Jared chimed in.

“That really sucks.” Ashley sighed.

“So what’s your deal?” Tina asked.

Ashley was hesitant to tell her at first but she figured if she had been threw something similar she would understand.

“I met Derek a few weeks ago at the beach and we went to a party together…long story short I wouldn’t have sex with him but he decided to tell people that I pretty much begged him for it and on top of that the sex was apparently ‘pathetic.’” She rolled her eyes.

“Wow that’s a new low.” Tina shook her head. “Are you ok?”

“Not really happy about having my name being associated with the word skank but I guess I have to deal and just ignore them.”

“Well I’m a great listener if you need to vent…ask her.” Jared smiled.

“Thanks. I’ll keep that in consideration.” She smiled back as the bell for homeroom rang. “I guess I’ll see you guys around.”

She shut her locker and waved goodbye as she made her way to homeroom.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley had made it threw yet another day with little to no run-ins with Derek and his friends. She tried her best to ignore their childish comments as she passed them in the halls and the lunchroom but it was hard. She was glad to get home and relax again, hoping that AJ would finally call her. As much as she was trying not to let this affect her he knew how to deal with rumors better then she did and he would know what to do.

She again opted to walk home and grabbed her book bag heading out the door. She crossed the street and made her way towards the main street that led towards her home. She was about to grab her phone to try calling AJ again when she heard a car horn. She turned around just as a gray van pulled up next to her.

“You drive this?” she laughed seeing Jared in the driver’s seat.

“Eh it was my step dad’s…it’s not fabulous but it’s the best I can do for now.” He laughed. “What are you doing walking?”

“After spending a whole day with those people, riding in the close quarters of a bus is not appealing.” She smiled. “Walking gives me time to clear my head.”

“Well too bad, jump in.” Tina smiled from the front seat. “Were going to get pizza”

“You sure you don’t mind?”

“Get in!” Jared laughed.

Ashley smiled and jumped in the backseat of the van sliding the door shut.


About an hour later they arrived back at Ashley’s condo. At first she was going to invite Tina and Jared in but she decided she would have to get to know them better first. As nice as they seemed she had only met them earlier that day and she knew she had to be cautious. She thanked them for the ride home and for inviting her out for pizza and made her way inside.

“I’m home.” She called out as she locked the door behind her. She had called Denise earlier to let her know she would be home later. Denise emerged from the back door and made her way into the living room.

“Why didn’t you invite your new friends in?” Denise asked as she greeted Ashley.

“I just met them today. I want to give it some time.” She half smiled as Denise sighed.

“Honey you can’t keep worrying that everyone you meet is going to want to use you. We’ve talked about this.”

“I know and I’m trying to do better. It just takes a while to break the bad habits.” She took a seat on the big chair opposite the couch that Denise had sat in. “Has Alex called at all today?”

“No. I haven’t spoken to him in a few days, I believe they’re in New York now. It gets crazy there.” She smiled. “How are you two doing? You don’t talk much about it.”

“It’s getting there.” Ashley faked a smile sighing. She was upset that he still hadn’t called her yet. “I have some stuff to look up for class tomorrow so I’m just going to hang out in my room for a little.”

Ashley laid back in her bed not knowing what to do. She wished that Angel was home to talk to but she was with Aaron touring overseas. They hadn’t spoken in almost two months because it was too expensive. She decided to vent the only other way she knew how. She reached into her dresser and pulled out her journal. Turning to a clean page she began to fill it with her inner thoughts.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It had been three days and still no call from AJ. Ashley knew his little promise to her was too good to be true. He lied when he said he had changed, he was still the same A.J, not Alex.

Friday afternoon had rolled around fast and Ashley grabbed her books and quickly tossed them into her bag making her way outside to meet Tina and Jared. She was really beginning to like them and they had been nice enough to pick her up and drive her home from school all week. When they pulled into the driveway of her condo Ashley noticed Denise’s car was gone. She smiled knowing it was the perfect opportunity to finally invite them in. Denise tended to get embarrassing when she brought new friends home for the first time.

“Do you guys wanna come in and hang out for a while? My mom’s not home so we have some peace.” She laughed and turned to Jared. “I know you’ve been just about dying to.”

“Awesome!” he said shutting off the van and jumping out before anyone else had a chance to respond. Ashley and Tina laughed getting out of the car and meeting him at the front door.

“It’s nothing special. It’s pretty small and not so decorated.” She said as she unlocked the door letting them in.


“It’s really cute.” Tina smiled as she walked them around the small downstairs area.

“So my rooms down here and then my mom’s room and the guest room are upstairs.” She led them to the back hall where her room was.

“Holy crap it’s like cotton candy exploded in here!” Tina laughed at all the pink surrounding her room.

“What can I say, I love pink.” She grinned. “So what do you guys wanna do?”

“Snoop!” Jared teased as he looked at the pictures hung on her wall. “Can I say how much I’m jealous of you right now!” he said pointing to the picture of Ashley with Nick and Brian from the Millennium tour.

Ashley and Tina just shook their heads laughing at him. Ashley thought his little obsession was cute and he was always really mellow about it, never letting it come between a conversation or them hanging out. He treated her completely normal and that was a lot more then she could say for the other Backstreet fans she had encountered at the school in the past week. Half of them hated her and the other half wanted to be her best friend. She tried as best as she could to be nice but some of them were just too much for her.

“Sweet, do you play the guitar?” Tina asked noticing the case in the corner of her room,

“Yea a little. Nothing crazy.” She laughed. “I just know the basics but it works for writing.”

“Writing? Like songs? I wanna hear!” Jared said excitedly finally turning his attention away from the pictures.

“I dunno. I never really play my stuff for anyone.” She said timidly. She usually only played her music for Angel and Matt. Aside from the song she wrote for her mom she’d never let anyone hear anything else.

“Come on consider it my payback for driving you. Please!” he begged handing her the guitar case.

“I usually have my best friend approve all my songs but she’s been out of the country. I guess I could get your approval on this new one.” She smiled pulling out the notebook she had been writing in the other day and taking a seat on her bed. “Ok so I wrote this in the mix of being mad at my brother and pissed off at Derek. It kind of just combines everything I wanna say to the both of them into one, but you’ll definitely get the Derek references.”

“A brand new song, I feel so privileged.” Tina laughed taking a seat on the floor next to Jared.

“You should.” She teased. “Alright so it’s called You Think.”

She began strumming the melody letting the lyrics flow to her as they sat quietly listening in awe.

“I made a big mistake, Ever thinking that you cared, When it's obvious There's nothing here, That you would need to share.

I ain't gonna cry, Cause you can't hurt me anymore. You can run your mouth, You can speak your mind, Everything you say is a waste of time.

You think you're so incredible, Completely unforgettable, You think the world spins just for you, You don't have a clue. You act like I'm invisible. With out you I'd be miserable. One thing is undeniably true…You think it's all about you.

I can see it now, I can read you like a book. All you care about is What you say, And how it makes you look.

You can talk all night, Words can't hurt me anymore. You got a million answers To impress yourself, But it really don't matter To no one else.

You think you're so incredible, Completely unforgettable, You think the world spins just for you, You don't have a clue. You act like I'm invisible. With out you I'd be miserable. One thing is undeniably true…You think it's all about you

I know I’m better off. You ain’t that big a loss to me, yeah. Anytime your not here, Baby the air is clearer to breathe…

You think you're so incredible, Completely unforgettable, You think the world spins just for you, You don't have a clue. You act like I'm invisible. With out you I'd be miserable. One thing is undeniably true…

You think it's all about you yeah, yeah. You think it's all about you, yeah, yeah, yeah. You don't have a clue…

You act like I'm invisible. With out you I'd be miserable. One thing is undeniably true, You think it's all about you…”

She strummed the final chord and placed the guitar down next to her looking at them, awaiting their response.

“Add another thing to the list of why I’m insanely jealous of you!” Jared was the first to speak teasing. “Talent runs in your family big time.”

“That was awesome. How did you even write that? I would never be able to think of anything like that it was…so cool.” Tina smiled at her.

“You really think so?” she could feel the smile growing on her lips.

“Umm yea!” Jared looked at her as if she were insane. “What are you doing in high school when you could be out killing it with songs and a voice like that?”

“I just write to get all the problems off my chest. I would never be able to perform in front of a crowd.” She put the notebook away.

“Umm hello aren’t you in the academy? Isn’t that what you do?” Tina laughed.

“It’s different, I’m playing a character…It’s someone else’s work being criticized not my own. If some one doesn’t like it it’s not that they don’t like me, they just don’t like my character…” she tried to explain her crazy logic “I know it sounds weird but in a play I could perform in front of millions of people and love it…just singing that song for you two I thought I was gonna pass out.”

“And you’re insightful?” Jared laughed. “If you were a guy I would so date you.”

Ashley and Tina rolled their eyes laughing.

“You’re too much.” Ashley shook her head at him

“But admit it…you know you love me already.” He grinned.

“How could I not with those killer lines of yours.” She laughed.

“She so wants me.” He said to Tina pointing at Ashley.

“Oh baby, oh baby. Hold me back before I can’t help myself.” She said in a monotone voice causing them all to erupt into laughter.

“Let’s just get some food.” She said and made her way into the kitchen the smile not leaving her face.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Hey man, I just saw the crowd out there and they are pumped tonight. This new set is gonna blow them away.” Brian said walking into the dressing room where Nick and AJ were sitting around relaxing before the show.

“Hey Nick, D needs to see you really quick.” Kevin said sticking his head in the door.

Nick groaned loudly as he pulled himself out of his chair and left the room. Brian quickly replaced himself where Nick had been sitting and looked over at AJ.

“So I heard Marcus say that Ashley had called the other day. How’s she doing?”

“Ah crap, I knew I forgot to do something the other day.” AJ said realizing he had never called her back.

“Dude that was like three days ago, you still haven’t called her?” Brian raised an eyebrow at him. “I thought you said things were just starting to go better with you.”

“Fuck. I know, I just forgot…she said it was important too. Damn it! She’s gonna be pissed.” He got up and began searching threw his bag for his phone. After a moment he thought. “Crap.”

“What?” Brian looked over at him.

“I left my fricken phone at the hotel. Can I use yours?”

“Leighanne has it…she’s already down front.” He said. “Sorry man. Just call her when we get back, it’s Friday I’m sure she’ll be up and they’re behind a few hours any way.”

“I guess you’re right.” He sighed wanting to kick himself in the ass for forgetting about her. He knew she wouldn’t just let it blow by either, he was going to have to pay her back for this one that is if she would even forgave him and give him yet another chance.

“Ten minutes to show time.” He heard from the hallway. He pushed all his thoughts aside as he made his way out to do the only thing he could at that point, put on a killer show.
End Notes:
song used was "You Think" by the Clique Girls who are amazing by the way. This song completely inspired me today, I had no clue where this chapter as heading then I heard that song and it just fit the situation with both AJ and Derek perfectly...it as meant to be haha...hope you enjoyed it! More tomorrow night hopefully!


of and yay for my favorite line ever from mean girls "he's too gay to function." love it haha
Chapter 40 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry this took so long its been a busy week ENJOY!
AJ yawned as he walked back into his hotel room tossing his bag down on the floor. It was already well past eleven but he knew with the time difference he still had ample time to call Ashley back. He decided to take a shower first, wanting to relax his tense muscles after the show.

He came out of the bathroom half an hour later and was looking for his phone when there was a knock on his door.

“What’s up man.” He said opening the door to a grinning Nick.

“Dude remember those two girls I hooked up with last time we were in Jersey?” he asked stepping into the room a little. AJ just looked at him telling him to go on. “So they’re downstairs…with a few friends who might I saw are mighty fine.”

“Point being?” AJ rolled his eyes at the stupid grin on Nick’s face.

“Come mack with me. They wanna shoot a little pool in the bar downstairs…maybe make their way to the hot tub.”

AJ took a second but shook his head remembering what he had to do.

“Man I gotta call my sister. She’s been waiting for me to call her back since Monday. Things are just starting to get better I can’t screw up again.” He said pushing Nick towards the door.

“You already put off calling her this long…what’s one more night? You have plenty of time to call on the ride to Boston tomorrow…c’mon hot chicks, hot tubs…you can’t pass this up.” He egged him on, all the time the grin not leaving his face.

They exchanged glances and AJ sighed tossing his phone back onto the bed and pulling on a shirt and jeans over his boxers.

“That’s what I thought.” Nick laughed as they made their way out of the room.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley groaned as she turned over in bed. She picked up her ringing cell phone from the nightstand. Without looking at it she held it up to her ear.

“Hello.” She grumbled.

“Hey kiddo.” AJ said on the other end. “Did I wake you up?”

“It’s 7:00AM on a Saturday morning…what do you think?” she said in a grouchy tone.

“Whoops. I forgot about the time difference.” He laughed a little but she didn’t think it was very funny.

“What do you want?” she grumbled. He could tell she was still falling in and out of sleep.

“Marcus said you called the other day.” He said. When there was no response he continued. “I know it took a while for me to call you back, but you know how crazy things get on the road.”

Still there was no response.

“Ashley! Wakeup!” he yelled into the receiver.

“Huh? Sorry.” She said waking up once more. “Can this wait?”

“I thought you said it was important.”

“It was important when it happened, Alex.” She said in a semi angry tone. “I don’t want to talk about it this early.”

“Well then when can we talk? I told you I want to be there for you and I mean it.”

“I’m over it, just forget it.” She was now nearing a fully awake state and wanted to be able to go back to sleep. “I’ll just call you later and maybe we can talk then.”

“Fine, but I want to know what’s going on so you better call.” He sighed. “Go back to sleep and I’ll talk to you later. Love you kiddo.”

“Bye.” She grumbled and hung up tossing her phone back on the nightstand before grabbing her pillow and burying herself under the covers once more.

Ashley had just fallen into a deep sleep again when her cell phone began to go off once more.

“What the hell!” she groaned ready to throw it into the wall. “What do you want now?” she almost yelled expecting it to be AJ.

“Well that’s no way to greet your best friend.” Angel laughed.

“Angel!” Ashley shot up in bed excited to finally hear her friend’s voice.

“That’s more like it!” she chuckled. “Guess where I am.”
“Please tell me California. I miss you so much, it’s been too long.”

“I’m in San Diego right now, but I’m coming your way tomorrow. Mom said as long as it was ok with Denise that I could stay until Aarons show’s here in Cali were done.”

“Oh my god! I can’t wait to see you! When do you get here?” she said excitedly.

“Tomorrow afternoon.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley ran out of her room as she heard the doorbell ring.

“I’ll get it! I’ll get it! I’ll get it!” she yelled all the way to the door. She flung it open to find a grinning Angel on the other side. She jumped on her as she hugged her, almost knocking her to the ground. “You don’t understand how good it is to see you!”

“Believe me after being in Japan forever I feel the same way!” Angel laughed.

“Hey Aaron, I didn’t know you would be here.” She smiled and hugged him hello.

“You’re mom said home cooked meal and I was all in.” he laughed as Ashley grabbed Angel’s bags and walked them further inside. “I don’t have a show until tomorrow so mom said I could have a little down time, if you don’t mind me crashing your little party.”

“it’s no big, you’re always welcomed.” She smiled and led them to the living room where Denise was.

“Hey you two!” Denise got up to hug them both. “It’s been too long.”

“Thanks so much for letting me stay here.” Angel smiled.

“And for dinner.” Aaron grinned.

“I know how much Alex misses it on the road so I figured I’d extend the welcome. I thought your mom would be coming.” She took a seat back on the couch.

“She had some stuff to do with Leslie that she figured she’d get done while he wasn’t around to bug her.” Angel laughed.

“Hey!” Aaron said as they all laughed.

“I’m so glad you’re here Angel, we have so much to catch up on.”

“Yes we really do.” She grinned at her.

“Come on Aaron, were not gonna leave you out.” Ashley laughed as they headed back to her room.

“You mean I get to gossip with the girls too?” he said in a high-pitched voice. “Oh my gosh so super exciting!”

“Oh shut up before we change our minds.” Angel rolled her eyes laughing at him.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Wait…he what?” Angel almost screamed as Ashley finished retelling the events of the past weeks.

“Wow…that guys a total jerk.” Aaron chimed in. “Who knew girl gossip could be so interesting. Tell me more.”

Ashley laughed at how intrigued by her story Aaron had been.

“Are you doing ok now?” Angel asked disregarding her brother.

“I’m dealing. I met a few people who are really helping me out though, and oh my gosh the guy, Jared is so funny. He’d probably die if he was here right now. He’s in love with Nick, like obsessively, he’d probably pass out if he saw Aaron.” She laughed.

“Guy…in love with Nick?” Aaron raised an eyebrow. “No thanks.”

“He’s really cool he doesn’t act all crazy or anything like the girls do, but when he gets into it you can’t help but crack up. And the girl, Tina, she’s just really chill. They don’t really care about everything going on and they hate Derek and his minions just as much as I do.”

“We should all hang out while I’m here, I’d love to meet them.” Angel smiled. “How are things going with AJ after you talked?”

“Ok I guess. It took him five days to call me back when I needed to talk to him. He did call though so I guess that’s a step.” Ashley looked down at her phone that was ringing next to her. “Speaking of the devil…let me answer it, I kind of blew him off the other morning.”

“Hey Alex.” She said as she answered.

“Hey kiddo…called later this time.” He laughed.
“Yea, sorry about that. You know how much of a grump I am in the morning, you should have been prepared.”

“I forgot about the time difference, I didn’t realize how early it was. Can you talk now?”

“Not for long, Aaron and Angel are here.”

“Oh ok. So what’s going on? How was your first week of school?”

“Alright. Nothing major.” She lied. She had dealt with things by now and really didn’t want to involve him in everything

“You don’t sound too convincing.” He said noting the apprehension in her voice.

“My first day wasn’t that great but things got better. I made some friends and I dealt with it.” She sighed.

“Ash, you can talk to me if you need to. Has that guy been bothering you or something?”

“No, don’t worry about it, things are fine, I dealt with everything. I’m fine really.” She wished he would give it up.

“Well then I guess if you don’t want to talk I’ll just let you go back to your friends.” He sighed knowing he had waited too long to talk to her this time.

“I’ll call you soon ok?” she said

“Ok kiddo, have fun, tell Angel and Airhead I said hi.” He laughed, “Love you.”

“Ok, bye.” She said and hung up.

“Why didn’t you want to tell him? Angel asked.

“I dunno, I just don’t really feel like I can open up to him anymore.” She sighed. “Like that night we were talking he started going on about sex and stuff and how I would talk to him about it. I really just wanted to blurt out everything about me and Matt but I just couldn’t. We’re not the same anymore.”

“Wait you…” Aaron caught onto what she was saying,

Ashley’s eyes grew wide, she had forgotten all about Aaron being there,

“That stays in this room you understand? I will kill you if you if you repeat even one work to ANYONE!” she threatened him
“Ok, in this room only I got it.” He agreed, scared of her aggression.

Ashley bit her lip nervously as she looked at him trying to read his expression and whether or not she could trust him.

“Dinner!” Denise called out and everyone made their way out of the room, apprehension and anxiousness still very clear in Ashley’s mind.
Chapter 41 by AshleyNicoleFans
It had been six months since Ashley started high school and things were beginning to look up for her. She loved being in the academy and although she hadn’t landed any lead roles yet she had large parts in two musicals so far. AJ hadn’t been in town for the first one but Ashley told Denise she didn’t want him to come to the second. It wasn’t that she didn’t want him there, but she wasn’t sure she could handle him not showing up again. Although she tried to act as if things were better between them she just couldn’t bring herself to trust him fully.

On the bright side things with her friends had gotten better too. After a few months of Ashley ignoring Derek and his friends they began to stop with the rumors about her. She had recently begun dating another Junior named Steven. He was part of the academy too, but in the commercial recording department. At first Ashley was apprehensive to start dating anyone but he was persistent and won her over with his amazing voice. They had now been dating for two months and Ashley couldn’t be happier, Denise even seemed to like him but she was too nervous to introduce him to AJ. He was very critical of anyone she hung out with.

Ashley walked into the condo tossing her bag down after a long week of school and rehearsals. Denise was just ending a phone conversation when she walked into the kitchen.

“Sure Tony, I’ll see you then.” She hung up the phone and smiled at Ashley as she looked up. “Hi sweetheart, Steven didn’t come in today?”

“No, his mom needed him home after school so he just dropped me off.” She smiled taking a seat, after getting some juice from the fridge.

“You have rehearsals this weekend right?” Denise asked.

“Yeah all day tomorrow and then maybe on Sunday depending how we do.” She sighed. She rarely had a free weekend when she was in a show, it was stressful but she loved it.

“I just got off the phone with Tony. I need to go to Orlando for the weekend. His mother is in the hospital and he needs some help with things.” She informed her. “I’m not really happy about leaving you by yourself for two days but it’s such short notice.”

“Wait, I get to stay home alone?” she smiled.

“I’m going to see if Alex can come down but I know they’ve been a little busy.”

“Mom, I don’t need a baby sitter. I’m going to be fifteen soon, I can take care of myself for two days.” She sighed.
“Ok, I’m trusting you on this one, but this is a test. Mess this up and it’s back to babysitters for good.” Denise warned.

“I promise I wont mess up.” She smiled.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AJ was sitting in a small diner around the corner from their rehearsal studio with Nick getting a quick dinner before they had to be back. He sighed pulling his phone out of his pocket as he heard it ringing.

“Hey mom.”

“Hi Alex, how are you today?” Denise said cheerfully.

“Doing good…just rehearsing as always.” He laughed a little. “What’s up?”

“I’m leaving for Orlando tonight, Tony needs some help at home. His mother is in the hospital but he has to work. It’s just for the weekend until his sister can come in but I have to leave Ashley, she has rehearsals all weekend and she can’t miss them.”

“Well I can’t really come back and forth all weekend…” he began.

“No, no that would be crazy. I just wanted to make sure you’d be around incase she really needed something. I’m a little nervous about leaving her alone.”

“I’m sure she’ll be fine for two days, but if she needs something I can come down. We just have rehearsals all day but I can be there.” He reassured her.

“Thanks so much sweetie, have a good day and I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Love you.”

“Love you too, mom. Have a safe flight.” He said before hanging up.

“Your mom is actually going to leave your sister by herself? Big step.” Nick laughed knowing how overprotective Denise was.

“Something about Tony’s mother being in the hospital with no one to help her.” He took a sip of his soda.

“You know she’s gonna have like a crazy wild party right?” Nick smirked.

“She’s not that kind of kid.” AJ rolled his eyes at Nick’s smirk.

“Sure about that?”

“What do you mean am I sure?” AJ looked at him as if her were stupid. “She’s always been a good kid. She wouldn’t do anything to get herself in trouble. She knows better.”

“All I’m saying is I heard she isn’t as innocent and sweet as everyone makes her out to be.” Nick’s smirk now changed to a serious look. Even though Ashley had sworn Aaron to secrecy he couldn’t hold back all the juicy dirt he had on her and eventually blabbed it all to Nick and a few of his friends.

“You do realize you’re talking about my little sister right?” AJ said visibly growing angry at what Nick was insinuating.

“I’m not saying it to piss you off man.” Nick defended himself. “I’m just telling you that you should keep an eye out on her.”

“What exactly have you heard?” Although AJ didn’t want to believe anything he said he was still curious.

“I shouldn’t be telling you any of this.” Nick shook his head as they paid their check and started walking back towards the studio.

“If Ashley came to me and told me something about Angel or Aaron that you needed to know I’d tell you man, look just tell me what you heard, and from who. I’ll stay calm, I swear.” AJ looked at him awaiting an answer.

They stopped in front of the back entrance to the studio and Nick looked around making sure no one was there before he started speaking.

“Now don’t shoot the messenger but Aaron said that he heard from your sister directly that…” he didn’t quite know how to word it without AJ freaking out.

“That what man? Just tell me!”

“That she had already done…a certain something…I don’t know with who but…”

“You’re full of shit.” AJ cut him off. “We’ve talked about this before, she would have told me.”

“Like I said, I’m just telling you what I heard. You can believe whatever you want.” Nick said as he walked back inside.

“Did he say with who?” AJ asked before he could get too far inside.

“I told you he didn’t remember, but it was in Florida.” Nick said and walked away.

AJ sighed and thought back to that first time that he caught Ashley with Matt. As much as he didn’t want to believe what Nick had told him, a part of him knew it was true. But why would she lie to him when they talked about it? He tried to push the thought out of his mind not wanting to believe that Ashley was growing up so fast. Maybe Nick was wrong, maybe Aaron just made everything up. He tried so hard to believe it but something just wasn’t sitting right in the back of his mind.
Chapter 42 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry it took a little while the end of the semester is crazy...LEAVE FEEDBACK! this is a good 1 :-)
“Thanks for picking my up from practice babe.” Ashley said as she got into Steven’s car.

“You know I don’t mind. Do you guys have practice tomorrow?” he asked as he made his way in the direction of her home.

“Nope, thank god. I needed a break after this week.” Ashley sighed looking out the window. It was already beginning to get dark out and as much as she was glad Denise had left her alone she was kind of scared to be at home by herself after dark.

Steven pulled into her complex a few minutes later and put the car into park as he pulled into the driveway.

“I forgot to leave a light on when I left this afternoon.” Ashley said looking at the dark house. “I know my mom said I couldn’t have anyone over but can you come in with me? It’s kind of scary walking in to the dark alone.”

“Sure c’mon, I’ll protect you.” He laughed shutting off the car and getting out taking her practice bag for her as she dug threw her purse for her keys.

She unlocked the door and switched on the hall light.

“Everything look safe?” Steven asked walking in behind her.

“I guess. It just gets kinda scary here at night.” She said walking towards the living room to turn on more lights. “Can you stay for a little?”

“You won’t get in trouble?” he asked sitting on the couch.

“What my mom doesn’t know won’t hurt her.” She smiled taking a seat next to him. “I can order some pizza and we can watch a movie.”

“Sounds good to me.” He smiled putting his arm around her and pulling her close to him.

She grabbed the phone from the table behind the couch before resting back against him, dialing the pizzeria and placing her order.

“What do you want to watch?” she turned her head slightly looking up at him.

“Whatever you want baby, you know I’m not picky.”

“Well I guess let’s just watch some TV for now. We can watch the movie in my room after we eat. It’s more comfortable in there.”


Thirty minutes later the pizza arrived. They ate their dinner and then made there way into Ashley’s room. They decided to watch ’40 Days and 40 Nights’. They got comfortable on the bed and Ashley started the movie. It didn’t take long for them to loose focus on the plot and turn their attention to each other. Ashley couldn’t hold herself back much as Stevens hands roamed her body, it didn’t take her long to realize that she didn’t want to stop.

“Do you have a condom?” she asked pulling apart from their intense kiss. Steven just nodded and went back to kissing her as he fumbled for his wallet on the side table.

“Are you sure about this? I don’t want to rush you or anything.” He asked looking her in the eyes.

“Yea.” Ashley nodded along with her answer pulling him in for another kiss as the phone began to ring.

“Should you get that?” he asked

“Don’t worry about it. I talked to my mom before, it’s no big deal. I’ll just say I was in the shower.” She said pulling him in for another kiss. “I just want you right now.”

He smiled and kissed her again…

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AJ groaned as he rolled over in bed grabbing around for his phone in the dark. He had turned in earlier then usual after a grueling day of dance rehearsals.

“Hello?” he mumbled.

“Alex, I’m sorry hunny, did I wake you?” Denise asked as se heard her son’s tired voice.

“It’s no problem. How’s everything going?” he rubbed his eyes a little trying to adjust to the dark.

“Just fine. Have you talked to Ashley at all tonight?” she asked.

“No, I haven’t been home. Why? You haven’t talked to her?” he said concerned.

“When she got out of rehearsals. Steven was bringing her home but she’s not picking up at the house or her cell phone.” Denise said worried.

“Maybe she’s sleeping or something?” AJ suggested.

“I’ve called a few times over the past half hour and haven’t heard anything.” Denise sighed. “I’m just worried she went out somewhere or that something happened.”

“Do you want me to try calling her? Maybe she’ll pick up for me.” He said hearing the concern in her voice.

“Would you?”

“I’ll call her a few times. If neither of us hear from her in the next half hour or so I’ll drive down there.”

“Thanks so much sweetie. I owe you one, I know you’re tired but I need to make sure she’s ok.”

“It’s no problem.” He yawned. “I’ll call you if I hear anything, you call me if she calls you.”

“Thanks again Alex. I’ll talk to you soon.” She said as she hung up.

AJ disconnected the call and hit his speed dial, first calling the house and getting no answer.

“Ashley if you’re there pick up…” he waited a moment “call me or mom back she’s worried about you.” He hung up the phone and tried her cell phone, again with no luck.

After calling a few more times he too was beginning to get nervous. He knew Ashley wouldn’t do anything too stupid, but after his conversation with Nick the other day he had to make sure for himself that she was ok.

He got out of bed and pulled on a pair of sweatpants and an under shirt over his boxers. He slipped on his shoes and grabbed his wallet and keys from the table as he left the house, calling Denise to let her know he was driving down to the condo.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley turned over and grabbed her t-shirt from the floor. She pulled it on and closed her eyes as she rested against Stevens bare chest. She could tell by the steadiness of his breathing that he was in a deep sleep. She was tempted to get up and get the phone, which had been ringing off the hook, but sleep was quickly taking a front seat in her mind. She knew she could lie to Denise in the morning and say she had fallen asleep so snuggled in closer to Steven falling asleep in his embrace.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AJ entered the key code as he pulled up to the condo complex just under an hour later. He was grateful the roads were mostly clear and he had made it there in great time. He parked in front of the condo noticing an unfamiliar car in the driveway behind Denise’s. He saw lights on inside and made his way up the walkway. He opened the door and walked inside.

“Ash?” he called out as he locked the front door. When there was no response he walked into the living room. “Ash where are you?” he called out again.

He looked down as he almost tripped over a pair of sneakers. He knew there was a guy here based on the size of the shoes. He shook his head and sighed as he made his way back towards Ashley’s room hoping not to confirm Nick’s accusations.
End Notes:
uuuhhhh ooooohhhhh....wonder what's gonna happen?!?!?!?
Chapter 43 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
I didn't want to leave you guys hanging for to long haha but the next update wont be for a few days(Wednesday most likely) so sit tight and enjoy. Review please! let me know what you thought of AJ's reaction.
Ashley’s eyes shot open as she heard the front door open. She shook Steven who was still sleeping next to her.

“What?” he groaned rubbing his eyes.

“Someone’s here, I heard the door.” She said nervously thinking someone was breaking in. “Shit!” she whispered as she heard the familiar voice calling her name.

“Who is it?” Steven sat up.

“My brother. Hurry up, get dressed!” she jumped from the bed grabbing his pants and t-shirt and tossing them at him. “He will kill me if he finds us like this.”

“My shoes are outside with my keys.” He said pulling on his shirt.

“Your cars in the driveway, he already knows someone’s here…he just cant know what we were doing.” She quickly fixed her hair and tried to straighten out her bed switching the TV back on. She heard his footsteps getting closer.

“Just sit on the bed and act like nothings going on.” She said as she got back on the bed not sitting too close to Steven.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AJ could see the light of the television flashing from under the closed door. He took a deep breath as he reached out and slowly opened the door.

He sighed a sigh of relief as he opened the door and saw Ashley sitting on the bed just watching TV. He flipped on the light as she turned to look at him.

“Alex? What are you doing here?” she said acting as if she hadn’t heard him come in.

“Well I had to take a nice ride over here because someone wasn’t picking up the phone.” He walked a little further into the room. “Who’s this?”

He could see the nervous look on Steven’s face and it made him begin to wonder what was really going on. He scanned the room and noticed something on the floor just under the bed. At first he wasn’t sure if it was what he thought but as he got closer he knew he was right.

“Sorry. We fell asleep for a little, I was really tired after rehearsal. This is Steven.”

“I think it’s time for you to go home.” He didn’t bother introducing himself, angry that Ashley was lying straight to his face.”

“We’re just watching TV. It’s no big deal.” She said looking at him trying to read his expressions.

“You and I need to have a little talk.” He looked at her sternly. “I think it’s best if you go home.”

“About what? We’re just watching TV.” She was now beginning to get nervous.

“I’ll just go.” Steven said beginning to feel uncomfortable. “I need to get home anyway. I’ll see you in school.” He quickly kissed her on the cheek and stared down at the floor as he passed AJ, too nervous to make eye contact with him.

After a moment they heard the front door open then close and Steven’s car start. AJ looked at Ashley with disappointment.

“How stupid do you think I am?” he asked trying to maintain his emotions.

“What are you talking about?” she tried to act innocent.

“Don’t pull that shit with me, it won’t work this time.” He looked her in the eyes. “How long has this been going on?”

“How long has what been going on?”

“Everything…lying to me, lying to mom…having sex.” He could barely bring himself to say it, let alone believe it, but his suspicions had been confirmed.

Ashley’s eyes grew wide as those final words came out of his mouth. She swallowed the lump that was beginning to form in her throat but couldn’t find her words.

“Next time you’re trying to cover your tracks you might wanna pick everything up off the floor.” He pointed down to the condom wrapper he had discovered earlier.

“It’s not what you think.” She said nervously knowing there was no way to get out of this one.

“Oh no? Then why don’t you tell me exactly what’s going on.” He waited for a response but Ashley couldn’t come up with anything. “That’s what I though.”

“You’re not gonna tell mom are you?” she said nervously finally looking him in the eyes.

“Is that all you care about?” he shook his head. “Do you not think of all the other things that can happen?”

“I’m being safe and I’m not just going around sleeping with the whole world.” She tried to defend herself.

“Ashley condoms aren’t one hundred percent safe. Things can still happen.” He stopped for a moment as he phone rang.

“Hey mom. No I just got here.” He looked at Ashley who looked back at him, her eyes begging him not to tell on her. “She’s fine mom. She was just sleeping, the phone wasn’t’ in her room. I had to come in here and wake her up.” He hated lying to his mom but he knew he could handle this on his own. “Ok I’m staying here tonight so you don’t have to worry now. I’ll have her call you tomorrow. Night mom.” He hung up the phone and stared at her.

“Thank you so much.” She rose from the bed and hugged him.

“You’re not off the hook. You may not have to deal with her but you have to deal with me.” He walked out of her room motioning her to follow. “Talk.”

“About what?”

“Why the sky is blue…what do you think?” AJ rolled his eyes at her.

“I don’t know what you want me to say. It’s obvious you know the truth so what more do you want to hear?”

“Let’s see…why you even started having sex in the first place might be a start, followed up by when you started having sex and how’s about we close with how many people you’ve had sex with.” He looked at her seriously.

“I don’t feel comfortable sharing that with you.” She looked down at the floor.

“You either talk to me or mom. It’s your decision, but you need to talk to someone.”

“Fine. I started cuz’ I wanted to, it was last year with Matt and before tonight Matt had been the only person.” She said quickly.

“Ashley you’re too young to be having sex.”

“Oh cuz’ I’m sure you were so much older.”

“I have nothing to do with this.”

“See! Why is it that when it’s you it doesn’t matter but it’s me and the world suddenly stops?” she crossed her arms as she paced the floor.

“Ashley I just worry about you. I want you to think about what you do before you do it, not just jump into things that you’ll regret in the future.”

“Alex I do think. I felt in my mind that I was ready and I don’t regret it. As much as no one wanted to admit it me and Matt had something different and it was just something I can’t explain. I know I’m gonna make mistakes but I don’t think this was one of them and I don’t want you to be disappointed in me.”

“When the hell did you grow up so much?” he sighed. Ashley just shrugged and looked at him as he pulled her into a hug. “We still have more to talk about.”

“What else is there?”

“Let’s start with why you lied to me last time we talked.” He crossed his arms as he took a seat back on the couch.

“What was I supposed to say Alex? You were all ‘when you think about having sex in a long, long, long time’ was I just supposed to come out and be like ohh too bad so sad I’ve already done it?”

“Yes. The truth would have been nice. Do you know what it was like hearing that accusation come from someone else?”

“Great so now there’s more people talking about me.” She sighed sitting on the couch. This was not the way she wanted AJ finding out about this. In fact she didn’t want him finding out at all.

“What do you mean more people talking about you?” he looked at her concerned. As much as he wanted to lash out and yell at her he knew he couldn’t. He was not the person to be pushing abstinence.

“Nothing, just forget it.” She could see the disappointment in his eyes, she just couldn’t tell if it was because he found out her little secret or if he was upset she wouldn’t open up to him.

“Why won’t you talk to me? I’m trying so hard to be here for you but you won’t let me.” He finally let go how he was feeling.

“Alex I just…” she sighed. “I do trust you I just don’t know how to tell you these things.”

“Just talk. You know I’ll listen.”

“There was just some crap going on at the beginning of school with that guy from the beach.” She sighed.

“Why didn’t you come to me?”

“I did…you just didn’t call back.”

“I’m sorry…I know I messed up that time, but I did call eventually.” He tried to make himself look a little better.

“Too little too late.” She shook her head. “It’s not just that, how come you’ve been home for like over a month and this is the first time I’m seeing you?”

“I know I haven’t been living up to my part of the bargain, but you don’t want me around most of the time.” He defended himself.

“Only cuz’ I don’t want to be let down.” She finally blurted out.

“I’m sorry Ash, I didn’t know you were feeling that way. I’m doing the best I can here but you have to give me time.” He put a hand on her shoulder.

“Just try harder, ok?” she looked up at him.

“I will. And you please promise me that you’ll think more before you do anything else? Maybe talk to me about it first?”

“I will…promise.”

He pulled her into a hug squeezing her tightly.

“Now go to bed, I’m tired as hell.” He said giving her a little push off the couch.

“Thanks.” She said as she walked out of the room.

“For what?” he asked making his way towards the stairs.

“Not killing me and listening to what I had to say.”

“It’s what I’m here for kiddo.” He kissed her forehead and they both made their way to their bedrooms.
Chapter 44 by AshleyNicoleFans
“Oh my god mom! Mom!” Ashley yelled out running through the front door of the condo two weeks later. “Mom!”

“What is it? Are you ok?” Denise said frantically coming down the stairs to meet her.

“Guess what!” Ashley could barely contain her excitement.

“Breath first, then tell me.” Denise laughed and led her into the living room.

Ashley took a moment to catch her breath and them continued.

“So Meghan was playing Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors but she apparently hooked up with Lewis who was dating Tami, who hasn’t been at school for a week cuz she has mono and now she got mono and she can’t come to school or be around anyone for like a few weeks cuz’ everyone else could get it and so Rebecca was the original understudy for Meghan but she dropped out last week and so now Mr. Davis was looking for someone else who could learn all the lines in such short notice without throwing everyone else off and guess who he picked?” Ashley rambled on so fast Denise could barely catch two words.

“Honey can you run that by me again and maybe a little slower?” Denise laughed a little.

“Me! He picked me!” Ashley ignored her request not wanting to go through the run down again. “I’m playing Audrey!”

“Honey that’s amazing!” Denise hugged her and congratulated her.

“And Mr. Davis said that if I pull this off I’m a shoe in for the summer program! I mean I had a chance before but if I do good he said that one of the freshman spots are mine!”

“You only have a week and a half to learn everything. I know you can pull it off but won’t it be tough with the end of the school year coming up?”

“Finals aren’t until a week after the play so I have plenty of time to study and I’m doing fine in school I just have to learn these lines in the next two days.”

“Well if you need to run lines just ask me.” Denise smiled at her.

“Will do.” Ashley smiled back. “I’m gonna go start memorizing lines now. I already know most of the music, thank god.”

“Ok. I’ll call your for dinner soon.”

“Thanks mom!” Ashley smiled and made her way to her room.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Thanks for meeting me for lunch man.” AJ said as he took a seat across from Brian.

“No problem. What’s been going on?” Brian asked as he took the menu from the waitress, smiling up at her. They quickly placed their orders. As she walked away Brian motioned AJ to begin.

“I’ve just been feeling really stressed lately. Keeping clean is harder then I originally anticipated. There are so many nights I just wish I would give up and take a drink.” He confided. “My sponsor helps with my cravings but sometimes I just need to reconnect with you guys, keep my head straight, ya know?”

“What’s been stressing you out?” Brian asked concerned.

“Ashley.” AJ sighed. “I just don’t know what to do about her. She’s growing up too fast and for the wrong reasons, but I can’t seem to get threw to her.”

“Have you talked to your mom about it?”

“I can’t do that. She wants to know she can trust me again, how can she if I run to my mom every time she does something wrong?” he rubbed his head in frustration. “The only way she’ll even talk to me is if everything stays between us, I pretty much have to blackmail her into having a conversation.”

“That’s your problem man.” Brian looked at him as if the answer was obvious.

“What are you talking about?”

“Think about it. She wants you to show her that you’ve changed since rehab right?” AJ just raised an eyebrow not following him, so he continued. “When all this drama was happening with you pre rehab you would blackmail her to get your way…it looks to me like you’re still doing that. Not so much for the wrong reasons, but in her mind it’s still the same.”

“I just don’t know where to go from here. I feel like were in so deep already that there’s no way to mend things anymore.”

“There’s always a way to fix things AJ but for starters you have to start acting like her big brother first and then be her friend.”

“What do you mean?”

“Let’s take for instance the little incident you told me about a few weeks ago. You didn’t handle that like her brother. I know you, there is no way in hell that you would stay that calm under normal circumstances.” Brian looked at him seriously. “You need to stop sugar coating things just to make her happy. So what if she gets mad at you for a few days? She’ll get over it and she’ll respect you more for telling her how you really feel. You know that she didn’t believe that you were ok with everything that went down, but as long as you let her walk all over you she will.”

“I just don’t want her to hate me.” He stared down at the table.

“You know that she will never hate you, no matter what you do.”

They paused for a moment as the waitress brought their food to the table.

“So what am I supposed to do now?” AJ asked.

“Start trying to really show her you’ve changed. Think back to all that you haven’t done in the past and do the opposite. She wants you to make up for what you’ve missed.” Brian took a bite of her burger as he studied AJ’s face; who was clearly in deep thought. As he swallowed his food he continued. “Let me help you out. What started this whole ordeal in the first place?” Brian asked knowing the answer.

“Me missing all her stuff.” AJ shrugged.

“Come on, work with me.” Brian laughed a little. “More specifically missing what?”

“Her play?” AJ answered unsure of what Brian was shooting at.

“Bingo! We have a winner.” He smirked at AJ’s un-amused glance.

“She doesn’t want me there. She tells mom every time to make sure I know nothing about them.”

“AJ seriously, do you believe she really doesn’t want you there? Or maybe she just doesn’t want you to know because she doesn’t want to be let down again?”

“How is it that you can figure out more about my sister in like 20 minutes then I can in like 2 years?” AJ laughed a little.

“If you would stop stressing about it and just think it all threw the answers would come to you too.” He laughed.

“So you really think she wants me there?” Brian could see the apprehension in his eyes.

“That’s all she’s ever wanted man. Believe me she would be beyond happy.” He reassured him. “Call up your mom and find out when her next show is and surprise her.”

“Rok I don’t know what I would do without you.” AJ laughed. “So now that my problems are sorted out how are things your way?”

The two continued to eat lunch and catch up with each other the rest of the afternoon.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley frantically ran around her room gather the last of her things before she headed to the theater for her show. She had worked night and day for the past 11 days running lines, learning the songs dances and staging and trying to keep up in school. She was exhausted but the adrenaline and excitement of staring in her first show at the Academy was enough to keep her running for days.

She tossed the last of her things in her practice bag and ran out the door just as Jared and Tina were pulling into the driveway.

Denise had left earlier in the day to pick up Angel and then Tony, who surprised Ashley by flying in, from the airport. Denise had talked to AJ the prior week and was happy that he was finally taking the initiative to come see her. She had kept her promise and not told Ashley that he would be coming.

She jumped into the back of the van and said a quick hello before Jared made his way to the school.

“So is Steven coming tonight?” Tina asked.

“He’s supposed to, but I haven’t got to talk to him all week. I feel really bad but I had to rehearse so much. I just hope he’s not mad at me.”

“I’m sure he understands.” Jared chimed in. “and if he doesn’t then he’s a jerk.”

“Guys I’m so nervous about tonight. What if I mess up?”

“You kicked total ass in dress rehearsal Ash. You’re going to do amazing.” Tina reassured her.

“Ladies we have arrived.” Jared said as he pulled into the parking lot.
“Tina do you want to help me get ready? I could use someone to keep me calm.”

“You know it.” Tina smiled as they got out of the car.

“Break a leg hun. Knock ‘em dead.” Jared hugged her as they parted, the girls towards the dressing room and Jared towards the entrance. He was helping collect tickets so he had to be there early as well to set up.


“Are you sure this wig looks good?” Ashley said as she straightened it in the mirror.

“You look great hun.” Tina smiled handing her the lipstick. “Hey look someone’s here to see you.”

Ashley looked up and smiled seeing Steven in the doorway. She quickly made her way out of the room and wrapped her arms around his neck kissing him quick on the lips. He backed away a little and she looked at him concerned.

“Can you come with me quick? I just wanted to talk to you.” She nodded and he took her hand leading her to the stairwell so they could talk in private.

“I hope you’re not mad at me for this week. I feel really bad about not getting to see you.” She said once then were alone.

“No not at all.” He smiled faintly. “You look really great. The short blonde look works on you.”

“Thanks.” She laughed. “So what’s up? What did you need to talk to me about?”

“Well…I had a lot of time to think this week. I don’t really know how to get at this but it’s been in the back of my mind for a few weeks now.”

“You know you can tell me anything.”

“I have to be honest, especially when it comes to my career. Dating you was a career move. You were my connection directly to the industry. I made the mistake of taking things to far and now that I’ve made a bad impression on your brother…”

“There’s no point in keeping me around?” Ashley cut him off furious at what she was hearing.

“I’m going to be done with my demo soon and I need to do what’s best for me. I need to focus on my next move, not keep something around that will get me nowhere”
Ashley was at a loss for words. She couldn’t believe he was being so blunt and blatantly disregarding her feelings. She fought back tears as she finally found the power to speak.

“As big of an asshole as I think you are right now why would you do this to me the night of my show?”

“I wanted to tell you sooner but we haven’t had a chance to talk.”

“So it couldn’t wait until Monday, when I’m not about to have one of the biggest nights of my life? But no that would be way to nice of you wouldn’t it? You just can’t take the time to think about any one else by you right?”

“I needed to get it off my chest Ashley. I didn’t want to upset you.”

Ashley couldn’t help but laugh at that.

“You’re full of shit if you didn’t think this would upset me. You know what all I have to say to you is have a nice life. I refuse to let you ruin this night for me. You’re not worth it.” She pushed him out of the way and made her way back to the dressing room.

“What happened?” Tina asked seeing the look on her face.

“Nothing of importance right now.” She said pushing it to the back of her mind. As upset as she was she knew that she couldn’t let it phase her now. This was her chance to prove herself and as long as Steven was only thinking about himself she would do just the same.

“Everyone into your first costumes. Curtain’s up in 15 minutes.” The assistant director announced.

Ashley took a deep breath as she finished getting ready. She was ready to go out there and show everyone what she was made of.
End Notes:
so so sorry for the long delay but I promise I will never take that long to update again. Thanks for sticking with me and let me know what you think.
Chapter 45 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley sighed with relief as the final curtain call ended. She had made it through the first show flawlessly and she couldn’t be happier. She knew that she had proved herself not only to everyone else but to herself as well.

Everyone congratulated each other on a job well done as they made their way back to the dressing rooms. She quickly gathered her belongings and put away her costumes before making her way outside to find everyone.

She smiled at the people who praised her on a job well done finally finding Tina, Angel and Jared waiting for her just outside the main entrance. Angel squealed with excitement and pulled her into a hug as she saw her.

“Girlie that was beyond amazing!” she smiled wide.

“You beyond killed it.” Jared smiled taking her things for her.

“I’m so glad you guys liked it!” she looked around. “Where’s my mom?”

“She wants us to meet her in the parking lot, it was getting a little crowded out here.” Angel grinned. Ashley raised an eyebrow as she studied her expression.

“What?”

“What’s what?” Angel laughed.

“What do you know? That’s what.” Ashley tried to read her but she couldn’t quite figure out what she was thinking.

“Nothing…except that your mom has a totally awesome surprise for you and you’ll love, love, love it.” By now Angel’s grin had spread to Tina and Jared as well.

“Well then let’s go see what this totally awesome surprise is.” She rolled her eyes laughing at them.

They made their way down to the parking lot surveying the rows looking for Denise’s car.

“I hope she’s not mad at me for coming.” AJ sitting inside the car, trying to remain unnoticed.

“Alex do you know how long she’s been wanting you to come?” Denise reassured him. “She was just waiting for you to take the initiative to do it yourself. She didn’t want to bug you, but I can guarantee you she’ll be ecstatic.”

“I hope so.” He sighed.

“Well you’ll find out now.” Tony said as he noticed them walking over. AJ shut the car door wanting to surprise her.

Ashley saw Denise and Tony standing outside the car and she quickly ran over to greet them.

“Sweetheart you were absolutely amazing. I’m so proud of you!” Denise smiled hugging her.

“Tony thanks so much for coming out!” she hugged him.

“You know I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” He smiled.

“So what’s this totally amazing surprise I keep hearing about?” she grinned.

AJ quietly snuck out of the other side of the car and came up behind her covering her eyes with his hands.

“Surprise!” AJ said. Ashley froze for a second, not really believing the voice she had just heard behind her. She quickly turned around and was greeted with a smile.

“Alex!” she screamed jumping so hard to hug him she practically knocked him down.

“Do you wanna start a riot?” he teased as he hugged her back.

She didn’t respond, she just stayed locked in the hug. She had been through such a whirlwind of emotions throughout the day that she couldn’t contain them anymore. She had been so happy to see him the second she hugged him she began crying. AJ pulled away a little and smiled at her wiping her eyes.

“You were absolutely incredible. I’m really proud of you.” He kissed her forehead. “Stop crying you’re gonna make me get all emotional.” He teased making her smile a little.

“I’m sorry. It’s just been a crazy day and I can’t believe you’re here.” She sniffled a little and wiped her eyes again pulling him back into a hug. “You don’t even understand how much you just made my day.”

“I’m glad you’re happy.” He smiled at her as she finally pulled fully away from their hug.

“Why don’t we all go out to dinner.” Denise smiled at the two glad to see Ashley happy. “You too.” She smiled at Tina and Jared.

“I’m starving!” Ashley said. “Can we go to that pizza place?”

“Where ever you’d like.” Denise said. “Will Steven be joining us?”

Ashley cringed at the mention of his name. She had tried to put off thinking about him as long as she could. She tried to act as if he hadn’t phased her but she was really hurt.

“No.” she said simply trying to avoid the topic. “Alex, ride with us in Jared’s van it’s really cool. We call it the Mystery Mobile.” She laughed. “Like the one from Scooby Doo.”

“We’ll meet you there then.” Denise said as her and Tony got in the car and the others made their way to Jared’s van.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The next morning Ashley sat in her room flipping through the television channels trying to find something to watch while Angel was in the shower. There was a knock on her door as she turned to see AJ peeking his head in, eyes closed.

“Can I come in?” he asked.

“Yea. You can open your eyes.” Ashley laughed shaking her head.

“Just wanted to make sure everyone was decent.” He laughed as he stepped into the room. “Where’s Angel?”

“Shower.” Ashley said tossing the remote down, giving up on the TV.

AJ took a seat on the bed facing her.

“I just wanted to tell you how proud of you I am. I know I told you like a million times but you were amazing.” He smiled at her.

“Thanks.” Ashley smiled back. “I’m really happy that you showed up.”

“I’m glad that I finally got the chance to see you perform. Mom wasn’t lying when she said you’re just like I was. I still can’t believe you learned that all so fast. I wouldn’t have been able to do it.”

Ashley just shrugged.

“Can I tell you something?” he asked. She just nodded. “I was a little scared to come. I thought you would be mad at me for showing up and not telling you.”

“Why would I be mad?”

“Well because you always tell mom that you don’t want me to come to your shows. I thought you’d get mad at me for not listening to you, but I really wanted to see you.”

“It wasn’t that I didn’t want you there…” she sighed. “I guess I just figured that if I told you not to come there was no reason for me to be let down when you weren’t there.” She bit her lip and looked up at him slightly not knowing how he would react.

“I guess in some weird way that makes sense, I’m just glad Brian talked some sense into me. But no more telling me I can’t come to something. As long as I’m in town I’m coming to anything and everything I want.” He warned her.

“Deal.” She smiled at him.

“So then you don’t mind if I come to the show tonight?”

“You don’t have to sit threw it again.”

“I want to. Every show is different every night, and I really enjoyed it.”

“Well then I’d be glad to have to there again.”

“Not to be a downer, but I couldn’t help but notice you weren’t too happy last night when mom mentioned your boyfriend.” Her eyes shifted away from him at the mention of Steven. She still hadn’t told anyone what happened between them. “I was kind of hoping to formally meet him.”

“No point now.” Ashley sighed. She saw the questioning look on AJ’s face and continued. “We broke up…or more like he broke up with me.”

“What? When?” AJ could see the hurt in her eyes although she was trying to avoid looking directly at him.

“Yesterday.” She said timidly not wanting to get emotional over it.

“Are you serious?” He asked angry that he would do something like that on such an important night.

“It’s no big deal, really.” Ashley tried to play it off but she knew he didn’t believe her. He lifted her chin so that their eyes finally met. She knew she couldn’t lie to him now that he had looked at her, he knew her too well. “He was using me…this whole time.” She finally broke down into tears.

AJ pulled her to him embracing her. Ashley looked up as she heard the door open. Angel stopped in the doorway when she saw that Ashley was crying.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t know you two were talking…I’ll just wait in here.” She went to close the bathroom door.

“I’m not gonna make you wait in the bathroom Ang.” Ashley laughed a little threw her tears. “Besides if I tell the both of you at the same time it saves me tears.”

“What’s going on?” Angel asked concerned making her way over to the bed.

Ashley began to retell the conversation she and Steven had the previous day.

“So basically he said that dating me was a career move and since he made the mistake of taking things to far and ruining his chances of getting connected with the boys there was no need to keep me around any more.” By the end of the story she was more angry then upset at Steven.

“What an ass!” Angel said in shock.

Ashley looked over to AJ awaiting a response but his face was stone cold.

“Can you say something? You’re scaring me.”

“I’d rather just punch him in the face.” He confessed.

“Alex, he’s not worth it or believe me I would have done it myself.”

“I just hate that he did that to you, and it makes me mad because there’s nothing I can do about it. I didn’t want you to have to go threw anything like that. I know how much it sucks to be used.” He sighed.

“I just need to test peoples motives from now on I guess.” She sighed. “I know it sucks but it comes with the territory.”

“Well I’m really sorry he turned out to be such an asshole.” AJ said hugging her.

“You live and you learn.” Ashley shrugged and stared down at her hands resting in her lap. She was torn but she knew she wouldn’t let this break her. Things were finally looking up with AJ and she wouldn’t let some stupid boy break her heart. She knew she was stronger then that.
End Notes:
yay for AJ finally showing up!
Chapter 46 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry for the delay on this one I had a visitor when I returned home from school and I had to show her around the city this past week but im back for good now and excited to write my butt off so enjoy!
The school year came and went and before Ashley knew it summer had arrived. Her performance in the Spring show had landed her a spot in the summer program at the Academy and she couldn’t be more excited to begin. She had three weeks break before the two month program began and she was taking every second of it to rest and spend time with her friends, knowing she would be busy afterwards.

Her ringing phone woke her up out of a sound sleep. She groaned rolling over to pick it up off the end table.

“Hello?” she grumbled barely raising her head off the pillow.

“Oh sorry babe, didn’t mean to wake you. “ Jared said from the other end.

“It’s ok.” She sighed glancing at the clock.. “I was getting up in ten minutes anyway.”

She clicked off the alarm and sat up in bed, stretching as she yawned.

“What’s up?” she asked Jared.

“What are you doing tonight?” he asked.

“I was just gonna hang around here. I thought you had dinner with your dad?”

“I do…”she could hear the apprehension in his voice but waited for him to continue. “I was hoping that maybe you could come with me.”

“Umm sure, I don’t see why not. I thought you and your dad always had this dinner to catch up and whatever, are you sure you want me there?”

“Yea it’s just I know I told you how I’m out to my mom and step-dad but my dad is different. I’ve wanted to tell him but he’s just this complete macho guy and in all honesty he would disown me. He’s always down talking my older cousin who’s gay and I just can’t deal with it.” He confessed. “And it’s just my dad has been bugging me these past few times about why I never talk about girls or bring any around.”

“So you kind of want me to be your decoy?” she asked not sure how to react to his question.

“I know it sounds kind of weird but it’s just I’m not ready to come out to him yet and I just need to get him off my back for a little. I know it’s a lot to ask but it’s just I know he would like you, and you being the wonderful actress that you are I know you could fake it. Think of it as a warm up to your summer program.”

“Nice way to suck up.” Ashley couldn’t help but chuckle. “Of course I don’t mind helping you out. I know it must be hard for you to deal with that. I just hope that I could pull it off. I’ve never met the parents before.”

“It will be fine I promise. I won’t let you get stuck with any hard questions.” He laughed. “Can I come by around 5:30 to pick you up? We have to drive out to L.A.”

“Sounds good…where are we going so I know what I should wear?” she asked.

“We’re going to some restaurant in Hollywood, I can’t remember the name but I know it’s like dressy casual if that makes sense.” He laughed. “I’m wearing jeans and a button up and like regular shoes if that helps.”

“I’ll figure something out.” She smiled. “See you in a few hours.”

“Sounds great. You’re the best.” He said excited. “I owe you big time.”

“I’m sure you’ll come in handy sooner or later.” She teased.

“See you soon hun.” He said hanging up.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

After informing Denise of her dinner plans Ashley returned to her room to dig threw her closet to find an appropriate outfit. After going threw several choices she finally settled on a simple pink cotton dress with a small jacket over it and black heels. She knew the shoes would eventually kill her feet but since she would be sitting throughout dinner she knew she could manage, and she wanted to look her best and make a good impression for Jared.

She quickly took a shower and blow-dried her hair before doing her makeup and getting dressed. She checked the clock as she finished applying her lip-gloss, seeing it was already 5:20. She gathered her things and made her way into the living room to wait for Jared. Before she could even sit down she heard the doorbell.

“Someone’s anxious.” She laughed opening the door for him. “You could have just honked I would have came out.”

“Umm hello, I’m a gentleman…you really do need to start dating better guys if none have at least come to the door to pick you up.” He shook his head as he came in. “Besides you know I always love saying hi to mom. You look great by the way”

“Thanks. She’s in the living room. I didn’t tell her anything about why I was going with you because I know you like to keep your business to yourself so if she asks anything I just said you didn’t want to make the ride to LA on your own and your dad wanted to meet some of your friends but Tina was busy.” She informed him.

“Thanks.” He smiled back as they walked into the living room. “Hi mom!” Jared greeted her with a hug as he always did.

“Hello Jared. It’s good to see you. I’m glad you were able to get this one out of the house.” She smiled.

“My pleasure, but we have to get going if we want to be on time…and believe me we want to be on time.” Jared smiled and they made their way out saying goodbye to Denise.

“So what’s our story?” Ashley finally said as they made their way to Los Angeles.

“What do you mean?” Jared looked at her briefly.

“Like “us” what’s our story, like when your dad asks what do we say? We need to have something worked up like how long we’ve been dating and all that if this is gonna work out.”

“Very smart, see this is why I need you.” He laughed. “What do you think is best?”

“Well if you don’t want to deal with the whole ‘what did you get her for Valentines Day’ crap and whatever I suggest we say we started dating in mid March. This way it establishes us enough for you to introduce me to him, but not enough for there to be too much questioning.”

“Think this threw much?” Jared teased.

“Well we have to be prepared if you want this to go smoothly.”

“I’m just kidding. Thanks again for doing this for me. It goes above your duties as a friend so I really appreciate it.” He smiled at her.

“Number one as far as I’m concerned there’s not much that goes above the duties of being a friend…being a good friend at least.” She smiled back. “And two, stop thanking me so much. I told you I don’t mind. You’ve become one of my best friends I wouldn’t leave you in the dust on this one. Just out of question why didn’t you ask Tina?”

“My dad knows that we’ve been best friends forever, he wouldn’t believe we were dating for a second.”

“Can you imagine you two dating? You guys are more Will and Grace then Chandler and Monica.” She laughed.

“Does that make you Karen or Jack?”

“I’d have to go with Karen…she’s rich and fabulous.”

“And you’ve got the drinking down.” Jared teased.

“Hey! I’ve was good this semester when it came to the partying.” she defended herself.

“Let’s see if that statement changes after the summer. More like I tried to be good.” He laughed.

“Hey you and Tina are just as bad as me so hush.”

“It’s fun to let loose…we just like to let loose often.” Jared rationalized.

“Yea, we’ll go with that.” She laughed.


Shortly after they arrived at Jared’s dad’s house. Ashley looked up at the large Beverly Hills home in awe.

“What exactly does your dad do again?”

“He’s a lawyer.” Jared said as they exited the car and walked up the long driveway to the front door. “Just so you know my family probably isn’t what you’d expect after meeting me and my mom.”

He rang the doorbell and was greeted by the smiling face of his father’s butler.

“Ah, Master Thompson, you’re father said you would be arriving today. Welcome home. You’re father is in his office and shall be done shortly.”

“Thanks Jonathan, this is Ashley, my girlfriend.” He introduced her as they stepped into the house. He greeted Ashley as Jared looked around. “I saw Jessy’s car outside, is she home?”

“Upstairs, sir.” He responded.

“Come on, I want you to meet my sister.” Jared said as he made his way up the main staircase.

“I didn’t know you had a sister.”

“Yup, and a brother too, both a few years older. We had all moved with my mom when my parent’s got divorced, but they just recently moved back in with my dad. They got tired of living the normal life, as they put it, when they could be living it up here.” He sighed. “I miss them but I’m really not into all this, Jonathan alone drives me crazy. I’ve been trying to get him to call me Jared for years, instead of Master Thompson.” He said imitating him.

“That sucks. At least they’re not too far away.” Ashley smiled looking around. “This kind of reminds me of our house in Orlando.”

“Yeah that house was nice.” Jared said as Ashley raised an eyebrow at him. “…MTV Cribs.”

Ashley laughed shaking her head as they stopped at the end of a hallway.

“Jessy, can I come in?” Jared knocked on his sister’s door.

The door opened and an older blonde smiled from the other side.

“Jared!” she said excitedly hugging him and opening the door further so they could enter the room.

“This must be Ashley.” She smiled shaking her hand. “Jared has told me a lot about you.”

“Nice to meet you.” Ashley smiled.

“Jessy is like my best friend.” Jared smiled at his sister. “She’s the only one in the family, aside from my mom and step-dad, who I can be completely honest with.”

“It’s really great that you would do something like this for Jared.” Jessy smiled at Ashley.

“I mean we’re really good friends so it’s not much of a stretch to tell a little white lie.” She shrugged. “I know he’d help me out if I needed him so I’m glad to help.”

“Well I’m sure dad will very much approve of her.” Jessy smiled. “It will buy you some time, but eventually you have to tell him.”

“I know, but eventually won’t come any time soon. For now I just have to deal.” Jared sighed as he heard his father calling for him from downstairs. “Guess we have to go, I’ll be here for a few weeks this summer and mom wants you to come visit so I’ll see you I’m sure.”

“Good luck tonight.” Jessy smiled. “It was nice meeting you.”

“You too.” Ashley smiled back as they walked back downstairs.

“Hey dad.” Jared smiled approaching his father, who was waiting by the door.

“Jared, there you are. I heard you come in I was wondering where you went off to.” His dad greeted him with a handshake. Ashley noticed the weird exchange. Jared had told her his dad wasn’t one to show emotion.

“I was just saying hi to Jessy.”

“I see you brought someone with you.” He said smiling towards Ashley.

“Hello Mr. Thompson, I’m Ashley, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” She took a step forward and stretched out her hand to greet him.

“Strong handshake, always a sign of good character.” He noted and Ashley just smiled back. “What do you say we make our way out. We have reservations soon.”

They made their way out of the house and to Mr. Thompson’s car. Shortly after they found themselves sitting in a booth at a small Italian restaurant in Hollywood.

“So Ashley are you originally from California?” Mr. Thompson asked as they sipped on their drinks waiting for their food.

“No, I actually just moved here in August from Florida. I go to the performing arts academy at our school so I transferred out here for that.” She smiled.

“Why haven’t you introduced us sooner. You know I love to meet your friends.”

“We’ve only been dating a few months and Ashley usually has rehearsals when we have our dinners.”

“So I’m assuming that you two met at school then?” He asked and Jared just nodded.

“Jared was actually one of the first people to talk to me at school and I guess we just hit it off.” She smiled.

“I’m hoping my son has been treating you right. He doesn’t have much experience in the ladies department.”

“Dad.” Jared looked at him embarrassed.

“He’s been amazing and he’s a really great guy.” Ashley felt bad that his dad would try to embarrass him like that but he had already warned her. “I’m really lucky to have met him.”

Her answer seemed to please his father and he continued.

“You seem to be a wonderful, charming girl and I can tell you make my son happy.” He smiled at her and turned his attention back to Jared. “So son, your birthday is next month, are you finally going to let me buy you that new car? I can’t stand to see you driving around in that rinky dink van.”

“Dad, I told you I like my car just fine.” He sighed.

“How can you drive this beautiful girl around in a piece of junk van like that. I will never understand why you just won’t let me step in and help you out.” His father shook his head.

“Dad I’m not like James and Jessy, I like doing things on my own, and if that’s the only car I can afford that’s what I’ll drive. Besides Ashley likes my car.” Jared looked at her hoping for backup.

“It get’s us around, that’s all that really matters.” She said.

“Well the offer is on the table whenever you decide to come around.” His father said as their food arrived.

Dinner finished and they made their way back to Jared’s house. They said their goodbyes and got back into Jared’s care to make their way back to Huntington Beach.

“My dad really seems to like you. Thanks so much for sitting threw that, I know it wasn’t easy.” Jared smiled at her.

“Does he always put you down like that?” Ashley asked with a discerning look.

“That’s just how he is. It’s mostly the reason why I didn’t want to live with him. He doesn’t know how to compliment anyone, unless he’s trying to impress them, and he only tries to impress people outside of the family. He’s just so critical of all of us.”

“That sucks.” Ashley sighed.

“I’m used to it by now.” Jared shrugged. “But now you see why I can’t come out to him, he just wouldn’t accept it.”

“I understand. I know it has to be hard, but you have to do what you feel is right.” She smiled.

“I’m glad you feel that way. I wasn’t completely honest before, the reason I didn’t invite Tina was because she thinks I should just come out to him and deal with it. As much of an asshole as he is I still want him to be a part of my life, I still want his acceptance and she just doesn’t understand why I care so much when he’s always so mean.”

“He’s your dad, of course you want his acceptance. Maybe in some time it would be right to tell him but you need to do what’s right for you. Take your time and tell him when you’re ready, don’t let anyone else try to tell you different.”

“You’re amazing.” Jared smiled. “If I were straight I’d so date you.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” Ashley laughed as Jared pulled into her driveway.

“Can you do me a favor? Can we not tell Tina about this? I don’t want her to get mad at me for not taking her too.”

“It’s our little secret, boyfriend.” Ashley smiled.

“Thanks a million more times, girlfriend.” Jared laughed. “Seriously though, thanks I owe you.”

“I’ll find a way for you to repay me sooner or later.” Ashley smiled and got out of the car. “Goodnight. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

“Goodnight.” Jared smiled as he waited for her to get inside before pulling away, smiling to himself, glad that she was such a great friend.
Chapter 47 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
im hoping to write another chapter today but im not sure if Ill get in done in time before I go out to dinner with my family but there will be another chapter up soon sorry this one is a little short...

happy holidays everyone and for those who celebrate christmas have an amazing day tomorrow!
“Good morning everyone, please take a seat in the first few rows.” Deanna, the summer programs coordinator, instructed. “As most of you know I’m Deanna and this is my assistant Erik. Welcome to the Academy’s Summer Program. Thank you all for being here bright and early, and on time. We have a lot to go over today as to what we will be working on this summer.”

Ashley listened intently from her seat as she spoke.

“Now I know that most of you are used to the ranking system where your parts co-inside with what grade you are in but here you’re all on a level playing ground. That means just because you stared in a show during the year if a freshman is more prepared they get the part. Each one of you were hand selected as the best if your grades and all have the potential to succeed.”

Ashley looked around a little as Deanne continued. She didn’t know many of the others who were in the summer program. After being the lucky one chosen to take over the lead in the Spring show she wasn’t very well liked either. Word had got out that AJ had come to the show and of course rumors didn’t trail that far behind. People said everything from giving her the role was just a way to get AJ to shell out money or even better that he had already gave money in return for her scoring the lead. She tried to ignore them but it frustrated her when she knew how hard she was working. She wanted people to realize that she was there on her own with no help from anyone.

“Today you will each be going through a series of auditions to see where you would best be placed. We will divide you into three groups and will rotate so each of you will have a chance to sing, learn and relay a dance routine and recite a scene. We are also looking at how well and how fast you can memorize. Memorization is key to succeeding as a lead in the summer program. We do two shows at a time for a total of six throughout the summer so it does get intense but we all have strong faith that you all can handle it.”

“With that said let’s begin.” The man to Deanna’s left jumped in.

They took the next few moments to sort them into groups. Ashley first had her dance audition followed by acting and lastly singing.

The whole time Ashley was auditioning there were two girls in the front row that Ashley couldn’t help but notice. She knew they were seniors and friends with Meghan, the girl who’s part she took over in the last play, but she had never officially spoke to them. The whole time she was auditioning or off by herself running lines they were glaring at her.

She tried not to be intimidated by their glares but the girls were beginning to bug her.

“She’s really good.” Stephanie whispered to Elaine as Ashley went up for her turn to sing.
“Too good.” She whispered back. “We can’t let her keep this up, she’s the reason Meghan isn’t here this summer.”

“There’s not much that we can do about it. No matter what anyone says about her she doesn’t falter. I thought those rumors would at least slow her down a little, but she didn’t seem to care.”

“Excellent job, Ashley.” Deanna said as he finished.

“It was a nice try Steph, really, but those were baby steps. We need something that will really break her, I just don’t know what yet.” Elaine looked up from her seat as Ashley walked by, giving her a fake smile.

Ashley ignored her and continued to the other side of the room to take a seat. She had finished all of her auditions for the day and was hoping there wasn’t much more left to do. As much as she wanted to be there, knowing that no one else felt the same way put a damper on her excitement. She rolled her eyes when she looked up to find Stephanie and Elaine approaching her. They sat in the row in front of her and turned to face her.

“What do you want?” Ashley said unenthused at their smiling faces.

“You did really good today. I have to give it to you, I don’t know how you do it.” Elaine started.

“What are you talking about?”

“I know I wouldn’t be able to handle getting up there knowing that no one wanted me here or that they all thought I paid my way in.” Stephanie continued.

Ashley rolled her eyes not wanting to say anything to add fuel to their fire.

“I mean it must be great coming from a family that can buy you anything you want. So just out of curiosity exactly how much does this program cost if you aren’t good enough to make it in on your own?” Elaine raised an eyebrow.

“Why don’t you go look at your parent’s check books and then get back to me, I’d love to know too.” She smirked at their stale expressions refusing to let them get the best of her. She was beginning to grow tired of all of these rumors and people talking about her. “You know I must be doing something right for you guys to keep trying to sike me out like this. But don’t get too intimidated, I’ll try not to steal all your thunder.”

“Intimidated? Yeah right.” Elaine rolled her eyes. “We’re just letting you know what we heard, so get over yourself.”

“What you heard or what you made up? You guys lie so much I think you’re starting to forget what’s real.”

“We didn’t make up anything.” Stephanie lied.

“See there you go again. You know at first I wasn’t sure why I even wanted to stay in the program when all of you guys hate me, but you guys just reminded me why.” She glared at them unmoved by their words. “So you can talk about me and hate me all you want, but come show time I’ll shut you up.”

Stephanie and Elaine looked on in shock as Ashley got up and walked away from them.

“What a little bitch. If it we’re possible to hate her even more then I already did, I would.” Stephanie said.

“You know what, let her have her little summer, that just gives us more time to come up with something really good when school starts. Besides there’s no fun in breaking her down in front of just fifty people when we can do it with the whole school.” Elaine grinned. “We just have to wait for her guard to be down.”
End Notes:
ive been asking around to those who i talk to online if there is anything that you would really like to see happen before the end of the story(no worries theres still a good amount left im just trying to outline it) but if theres something that you would absolutely love to see let me know and Ill see if I can work it in! your input is important to me. THANKS GUYS!
Chapter 48 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
more tomorrow promise! sorry I've been a little slow with the updates lately, I've been feeling kind of blah but I promise I'm trying to get back to my usual self who updates all the time
Ashley sighed as she approached the condo late one Friday afternoon. Her practice had ended a little early and she was glad to come home and relax. Her mood changed as she walked up the driveway, smiling as she noticed a familiar car.

She walked through the front door and heard voices coming from the living room. She quickly made her way in and jumped on the love seat.

“Alex!” she smiled wrapping her arms around his neck from her position on his lap. “What are you doing here?” It had been almost two months since she had last seen him and she was beginning to miss him.

“I came to have lunch with mom and I was waiting for you to get done, we were going to come pick you up so you didn’t have to walk.” He hugged her as she moved to sit next to him.

“We got done early today, thank god. I am so beat from all these rehearsals.” She said as she yawned.

“Do you have the weekend off at least?” Denise asked from her spot on the couch.

“Yea. I actually don’t have rehearsal until Tuesday so I have a nice long weekend.”

“Good, that’s even more time for us to spend together.” AJ grinned.

“Huh?” she raised an eyebrow looking at him.

“I have to go to New York for a few days to meet with some publishers interested in my book. I’ll be gone for about five days and I don’t want to leave you alone that long. I figured since Alex has some time off he could spend some time with you.”

“I don’t need a babysitter mom. Nothing happened last time.” She sighed knowing AJ probably had something to do with her not being left alone.

“That was just for two days, I don’t feel comfortable leaving you alone for so long, especially when you have to go back and forth to rehearsals on your own. I would feel much more comfortable knowing Alex was here with you.”

“I still don’t need a babysitter.” She sighed.

“Don’t think of me as a babysitter, think of me as the provider of fun and non stop entertainment.” AJ teased.

“Right.” Ashley looked at him questionably. “You’re gonna trust leaving me with this?” she laughed pointing at AJ.

“You’ll survive, now I have to get ready, the car is coming to pick me up at 7.” Denise said as she stood and made her way to her room. When she was out of earshot Ashley turned to look at AJ.

“I’m guessing this was all your idea cuz’ you don’t trust me from last time right?” she crossed her arms.

“Two minutes ago you were ecstatic to see me, why the change of heart?”

“Because I’m sick of being treated like I’m 5, I can take care of myself.”

“Look Ashley, mom does trusts you, but she doesn’t know everything that goes on with you. Yes, I offered to stay here with you to keep an eye on you while she was gone, but can you blame me? You haven’t really shown me that you can be responsible. Prove it to me in these next few days and I’ll get off your back.”

Ashley just sighed and leaned back against the couch, arms crossed.

“Come on, I’m not just here to keep an eye on you, I wanted to see you and spend some time together. I’ve missed you, and I know you missed me too, admit it.” He smirked poking her side, trying to get a smile, but she wouldn’t budge.

“You know you missed me, just say it and get it over with.” He smirked as his persistent poking turned into tickling. Ashley squirmed trying to keep a straight face, but couldn’t help but laugh breathlessly as she tried to free herself from his grasp.

“Ok! Ok! I missed you!” she yelled in surrender prompting him to stop. He grinned at her as she stuck her tongue out at him smacking him with the nearest pillow.

“Oh it’s on now!” he grinned grabbing a big pillow off the couch and whacking her with it.

She smacked him with her pillow one more time before tossing it at him and running off laughing.

“Just remember, I know where you sleep!” he threatened with a laugh as he heard her bedroom door shut. He sighed and fixed the pillows on the couch leaning back and closing his eyes, hoping that the few days together would go smoothly.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“So it’s just you and me now kiddo.” AJ smiled as Ashley walked into the kitchen late the next morning.

“Food.” She grumbled sleepily plopping down in a chair.

“I didn’t make anything for you.” He said sitting down with a plate of food. “You said you didn’t want a babysitter, if I wasn’t here you would have to make your own breakfast.”

Ashley just stared at him with an evil look as he shoved a big bite of eggs into his mouth, grinning at her. She rolled her eyes huffing in frustration as she got a box of cereal out of the cabinet and the milk from the fridge, she knew he was testing her patience and she wouldn’t let him get the best of her.

“So what do you want to do today?” he asked as he finished his breakfast.

“I’m going shopping with Tina and then I have a party tonight.” She said as she ate her cereal.

“What happened to us spending time together?”

“The weekend is the only time I get to hangout with my friends, and I promised Tina I’d go shopping with her before I knew you’d be here. I can’t just blow her off, and mom already said I could go to this party.” She placed her bowl in the sink, rinsing it before turning back towards him. “We have all next week to hangout after rehearsals.”

“When are you leaving?” he asked clearing his plate.

“In like an hour, but I won’t be back until after the party.”

“And what time do you think you’ll be coming home?” he raised an eyebrow.

“My curfew is midnight.”

“I don’t know if I feel comfortable with you being out so late.” He crossed his arms.

Ashley couldn’t help but laugh a little. “You don’t make the rules, mom does. If you have a problem with my curfew talk to her, but it’s not changing just cuz’ you say so.”
“I want you home by eleven.” He said firmly, causing Ashley to laugh again.

“Uh huh, sure.” She rolled her eyes and made her way to her room to get ready.

“I’m serious.” He called after her.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“It’s like he’s trying to run my whole life.” Ashley complained as she searched through the racks for a cute outfit to wear to that night’s party.

“So are you really gonna be home for eleven?” Tina asked.

“Hell no. He doesn’t make the rules and unless my mom calls me and tells me otherwise my curfew is still midnight.”

“He won’t freak out?”

“I honestly don’t care.” She shrugged pulling out a dress to try on. “I told him if he had a problem with it to call my mom, if he wants to freak out let him. What do you think of this?” she held up the dress against her, showing Tina.

“It’s really cute, is there anywhere cheaper we can look? I can’t really afford anything in here.” She said a little embarrassed.

“Is there anything you like?” she said as Tina flipped threw the racks a little. “Try this. It would look really cute with those gray jeans you have.” She handed her a top.

“$105! For a shirt?” Tina said “Who in their right mind would pay that?”

“Me, if you like it.” Ashley smiled at her.

“You can’t buy me this shirt Ash, it’s too expensive.” Tina shook her head putting it back.

“I can and I will because you’re a really good friend and you deserve it, now go try it on while I try on this dress.” She handed it back to her and pushed her towards the dressing room.

As she was changing her phone began to ring. Glancing at the caller ID she saw it was Denise.

“Hey mom.” She said in a cheery tone, hoping AJ hadn’t tried to weasel her into changing her curfew. “How are things going in New York?”

“Very good, how are things going with you and Alex?” she asked.

“Fine I guess. I’m out shopping with Tina. Can you talk to him mom, he’s being ridiculous and trying to change my curfew.” She complained.

“I already spoke to him. What if just this once we change it to 11:30, it’s not that much time cut off.” Denise tried to deal with her.

“Mom that’s not fair! My curfew is always midnight why does it have to change just because he says so?”

“I know sweetie but it’s more of an ego thing, he wants to know that he has some sort of say as to what goes on in your life.” She sighed. “It’s not too much to ask to appease him just this once, for me?”

“Fine, but this is the only time. He’s not going all power trippy on me.” Ashley stated.

“Just this once honey, I promise.” Denise said apologetically.

“Whatever.” Ashley sighed. “I’ll talk to you later mom.” She said and hung up. “Uhh I hate this.” She groaned stepping out of the changing room.

“What happened?” Tina asked looking at her distressed face.

“Curfew now cut to fricken 11:30 thanks to asshole. Seriously I don’t know what’s up with this power trip of his.” She sighed. “That top is really cute, you’re getting it.”

“I swear you have ADD when it comes to shopping.” Tina laughed shaking her head. “And 11:30 isn’t that bad. You can deal this once.”

“Oh I can deal all right.” She said grabbing 3 more pieces off the rack. “And so can he when my credit card bill comes…anything else you want?”
Chapter 49 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
i wont be home for the next few days and I didnt want to leave you guys hanging so heres a new one leading up to more drama
Ashley checked her cell phone as she sat around the house party later that night, it was already 10:45 and she would have to be home soon.

“Why are you sulking around like the world is over?” Jared said taking a seat next to her. “You haven’t had any fun tonight.”

“What’s the use, when I get home you know its going to be like FBI level interrogation, bright light included.” She rolled her eyes. “I didn’t even have a drink tonight because he’ll probably give me a field sobriety test.”

“He can’t be that bad.” Jared reasoned with her.

“Usually he’s not, but for some reason he’s on this power trip wanting to prove to me he has some control over my life. At this point I don’t even want to go back there.”

“You have to Ash. Look listening to him this once isn’t going to kill you.”

“Yea but if I listen to him this one time turns into next time then the time after that. It’s not fair and its not fair to you either. You have to leave early to bring me home when you don’t even have a curfew.”

“You know I don’t care about that, this party blows anyway. What do you saw we blow this place and go get something to eat before your time of doom.” He teased.

“Sounds good.” She half smiled and got up with him to find Tina.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

An hour later Ashley waved goodbye as she walked up the walkway to the condo. She was about use her key to open the door when it was opened for her.

“You’re late.” AJ said with a stern face on the other side.

“Like ten minutes, it’s no big deal.” She said pushing by him to get inside.

“Fifteen minutes actually, and late is late whether it’s one minute or twenty.” He shut the door,

“Get over it, I’m still home before my real curfew so you succeeded, happy now?”

“Where were you that you couldn’t make it home on time.”

“The party sucked so we went to In and Out Burger to eat but we were in Long Beach and hit a little traffic on the way back.”

“Why didn’t you call?”

“Bacsuse I didn’t think it was a big deal.”

“Well it is and you should have called.” He crossed his arms.

“Can I just go to bed?” she said not bothering to wait for a response.

“We’ll talk more about this and your punishment in the morning.” He said as she walked off.

“My what?” she stopped dead in her tracks turning back towards him.

“You heard what I said.”

“For what? I didn’t do anything!”

“You were late and you’ve had an attitude all day. You need to learn that you can’t just get away with everything you want. If you don’t want to follow the rules there are consequences.” He said firmly.

“You can’t be serious! Whatever little ego trip your going on is about to be over.” She said as she grabbed the phone from the table in the living room. “I’m calling mom.”

“You’re not calling mom, it’s almost 3 in the morning there. She has more important things to focus on then your whining.” AJ said grabbing the phone from her, hanging it up. “If you want to talk to her wait until tomorrow, but I don’t think she’ll disagree with me.”

“This is such bullshit!” Ashley said angrily giving up on him for now, retreating to her room. There was no way that she was going to let him run this on her for no reason, she thought to herself as she slammed her door in frustration. In the morning things would be resolved and Denise would knock him off his high horse.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley awoke to the sound of a text message the next morning. She grabbed her phone off the nightstand and flipped it open to read the message, seeing it was from Angel.

‘Party tonight in Redondo Beach at my boy Devon’s house. It’s gonna be crazy fun. Bring Tina and Jared, I better see you there. I’ll text you the addy later.’

Ashley sighed shutting her phone. She knew the chances of her going to that party were slim to none the way AJ has been acting. Hearing her stomach rumble she headed to the kitchen to make some food.

“Oh hold on she’s up.” AJ said handing her the phone. “It’s for you.”

“Hello?” Ashley said not knowing who to expect.

“Hi sweetheart.” Denise said. Ashley sighed knowing her tone of voice immediately.

“There’s no way I’m being grounded for coming home 10 minutes late when I shouldn’t of had to change my curfew in the first place.” She pursed her lips as AJ stared at her with a smirk, letting her know he had already won.

“Fifteen minutes.” AJ reminded her.

“Whatever it was just a few minutes, that’s still no reason for me to be grounded.”

“Honey its just until I come home, I really don’t want to have to come between you two in an argument. I told him all he could make you do was stay home, nothing else.”

“You’re not, you’re just taking his side. You always take his side!” Ashley complained.

“Please sweetheart, just listen to him and spend some time with him, that’s all he wants. I’ll make it up to you when I come home I promise.” Denise pleaded.

“Fine, but I’m not happy about this.” Ashley gave in, not wanting to stress out Denise.

“I’ll be home on Thursday honey, hang in there until them I’m sure you guys can work past this and still have a good time together.”

“I’ll try.” Ashley sighed and hung up turning back to face AJ. “Happy now?”

“Very much so.” AJ said placing a plate of food on the table. “I made you breakfast.”

“I’m not hungry.” She lied as her stomach betrayed her, growling at the site of the food.

“Sure sounds like you are. Look Ashley I’m not trying to be mean and ruin all of your fun, I’m just trying to enforce some type of order into your life. I know it’s easy to persuade mom into getting your way, but your way hasn’t been right the last couple of times. I don’t want you to go down the wrong path.”

“My life is just fine Alex. I do good in school, I don’t get into trouble I barely hang out with my friends because I’m working so hard for what I want…what more do you want from me? I’m just being a normal teenager.”

“I just think you’re growing up to fast.” He sighed.

“I’m not a little kid Alex, I’m fifteen, I have to grow up eventually.”

“Just eat your breakfast and we’ll talk about it later.”


After breakfast Ashley retreated back to her room to call Angel and inform her she wouldn’t be coming to the party.

“No way you have to come!” Angel said. ”This party is going to be beyond insane and everyone’s gonna be there.”

“Everyone but me.” She sighed.

“Can’t you just ask him to let you go or ask your mom?”

“Are you kidding? He’d probably want to hire a body guard or escort me there himself. It’s not like it’s some second grade pool party Angel. The second he starts questioning about adult supervision and all that crap it’s a done deal.”

“Come on Ash, there has to be a way that you can come. You would so regret not being there after.” Angel continued to push her.

“I’ll see if I can figure something out but I’m not promising anything. Text me the addy and I’ll talk to Jared and Tina, but like I said no promises.”

“Yay! I’ll see you there tonight!” Angel said excitedly, knowing Ashley wouldn’t pass it up.

“I said maybe Ang.”

“Uh huh, like I said I’ll see you tonight.” Angel laughed and hung up the phone.

Who was she kidding, Ashley knew she wanted to go but now she had to figure out a way. Asking was completely out of the questions, that was a given. There was only one other solution. She had snuck out many times before when Denise was home, but she knew AJ would be a lot harder to get around, but where there’s a will there’s a way. She picked up her phone to text Jared, not risking the chance of AJ overhearing her on the phone.

‘Party tonight in Redondo Beach, it’s gonna be crazy. Meet me at the front gate at 9:30. You know the drill’
End Notes:
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! I WILL BE BACK AND BETTER THEN EVER IN 2009!
Chapter 50 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
just wanted 2 thank you all who have been leaving feedback and continue to read hope you had a marvelous new year

Special thanks to Lenni for the feedback on what you would like to see happen because it sparked a great idea.

I'm still taking ideas from people of things you haven't seen happen yet that you would like to so please leave feedback if there is something you want to see becuase I will make it happen :-)
Ashley knew she had to be very strategic if she was going to pull off sneaking out that night. She decided to appease AJ and drop her attitude for the day, and she had to admit she had fun. They stayed in and watched a few movies and ordered pizza for dinner. She had forgot how much fun he was when they weren’t arguing. By the time 8:30 came around she almost felt bad about attempting to sneak out, but she wanted to go to the party and knew it was the only way.

“I’m starting to get sleepy.” Ashley yawned and stretched from her place on the couch. “Too much junk food.”

“I told you to lighten up on the candy.” AJ joked.

“I think I’m going to take a shower and get ready for bed.” She said as she got up.

“Ok. I’m gonna hang out here for a little, I’ll come check in on you before I head upstairs.” He said.

“Alex we’ve had a good day don’t ruin it by treating me like a kid. Why do you have to check in on me?” she said frustrated that he was making this harder on her.

“I just wanna say goodnight. I’m not trying to tuck you in or anything.” He laughed. ”I have some paperwork to look over so I’ll be in to say good night in about an hour or so.”

“Fine.” Ashley faked a smile and made her way back to her room.

She turned on the water and quickly took a shower. She had picked out her clothes earlier and knew her outfit wouldn’t be hard to hide under a sweatshirt. When she was finished with her shower she got dressed and pulled on sweats over her clothes. She pulled her hair back knowing she would just let it have to dry naturally and put her makeup in her bag so she could do it on the way there.

When she had everything set up she glanced at the clock, it was already 9:20. She quickly sent Jared a text message letting him know she might be a little late meeting him, but their plan was still a go. Now all she had to do was wait for AJ to come say good night.

She pulled back the covers on her bed and switched on the TV in attempts to look ready for bed when she heard a knock on the door.

“Come in.” she said as the door opened and AJ walked in.

“I’m heading upstairs to do some work, just wanted to say good night.” He said.

“Good night.” She smiled hoping that would be all. Ashley sighed as he took a seat on the edge of the bed, facing her.

“I had fun today.” He smiled. “I’ve missed just hanging out with you. I hope you don’t think I’m going overboard with all this, but I’m just trying to look out for you.”

“I know.” She sighed faking a yawn. “I had fun too.”

“Ok well get some rest, I’ll see you in the morning.” He stood from the bed and leaned in to hug her. “Good night kiddo.”

“Good night.” She smiled and hugged him back. She watched as he walked out, closing the door behind him. She waited a few moments and saw the lights darker from under her door and heard his footsteps moving upstairs.

Once the coast was clear Ashley pulled the covers down and took off her sweats. She grabbed her shoes and her purse and set them on the table next to her window. She opened the window and grabbed her things again before climbing out it. Once outside she straightened out her clothes and slipped on her shoes. When she arrived at the gate she saw Jared’s van parked across the street.

“Hey guys!” she said jumping in. “Ready to go get crazy?”

“No curfew tonight I suppose?” Tina said laughing.

“Nope, the night is ours.”

“Sure you’re not gonna get in trouble?” Jared asked as he pulled onto the highway.

“He thinks I’m asleep and he’s looking over papers or something, he’ll be too busy to notice I’m gone.” She said pulling out her makeup bag. “Let’s just have fun tonight and not worry about the little things.”

“How late do you wanna be out here?” Jared asked.

“That’s up to you hun, you’re driving. I guess let’s see how good the party is then we can really decide. Just remember to give yourself two hours to sober up before we leave.”

“Sounds good.” Jared said then turned up the radio for the rest of the drive.



Ashley looked around as they walked threw the front door of the house. There were a few people scattered around the front rooms, but most were out by the beach. She spotted Angel by the bar and waved as they walked over.

“Hey bitch.” She smiled hugging her and then greeted Tina and Jared. “I knew you couldn’t stay away.”

“I feel bad lying to Alex cuz we had fun today but I haven’t been to a good party all summer. Huntington Beach is dead.”

“Well Devon knows how to throw a party. Grab a drink and come outside, there are plenty of hotties here tonight.” She took her hand leading her outside after handing her a drink.


“Girl, you were so right. This party was fricken awesome.” Ashley said loudly, slurring slightly as she leaned on Angel for support several hours and several drinks later.

“I wish that life was one big party that just never ended.” Angel said in an attempt to be philosophical.

“It isn’t?” Ashley laughed.

“Well it’s a boring, sober party. Why can’t we just be drunk all the time…life is so much better that way.”

“Because then you’d be an alcoholic.” Ashley shook her head laughing at her friend’s obliviousness.

“Oh, that’s what that’s called?” she laughed taking a sip of her beer. “They have big words for everything these days.”

“Ok it’s time to hit the road Ash.” Jared said pulling her up off the couch. “Do you have a ride home Angel?”

“I’m staying here with Jessica, she’s gonna drive home in the morning.” Angel said laying on the couch now since Ashley wasn’t helping to keep her up.

“Call me when you can think again.” Ashley laughed as they made their way to the door. “Did you guys have fun?”

“Tina’s already knocked out in the car, so I’m guessing that’s a yes and I had a not so drunken but good time.” He said as he helped her into the van.

“I’ll try and stay up with you on the drive back.” She said yawning as she buckled her seatbelt.

“It shouldn’t take us long, there’s no traffic right now.” Jared said as he began to drive.

“Shit! It’s already 4:00 am? Ashley said noticing the time. “I’m gonna be so tired tomorrow.”

“And so hung over.” Jared teased. “You and Angel should really try and learn another game then beer pong because you got mutilated every time.”

“Whatever, I did better this time.” She laughed struggling to keep her eyes open. Before she knew it Jared was shaking her awake.

“You’re home.” He said quietly as he unbuckled her seatbelt for her. “There are no lights on so as long as you get back inside you’re in the clear.”

“That window is not looking very appealing right now. Do you think I could make it threw the front door quietly?” she asked.

“Your lock is super loud and don’t you have an alarm?” he raised an eyebrow in question.

“Shit. Thank god you’re here.” She shook her head. “Can you help me? I can’t pull myself up there right now.”

“Sure.” He laughed a little and they quietly got out of the car.

He lifted her up just enough to get half her body inside the window as she tried to get her bearings. She attempted to hold onto the edge of her desk to pull herself the rest of the way in but lost her grip, midway and fell to the floor.

“Shit.” She mumbled rubbing her head as she heard Jared outside trying to maintain his laughter.

“Are you ok?” he whispered and couldn’t help but laugh out when he saw a thumbs up appear in the window. “I’ll call you tomorrow, be careful and sleep well.” He said and was off.

Ashley quietly shut her window and changed her clothes, not sure how she was even still functioning. It was now 5:00 am and she was beyond tired. She took two Tylonol to calm her headache from falling and climbed in bed, falling asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.




~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A loud horn noise sounded throughout her room the next morning as Ashley cringed from her spot under the covers, her hangover ever growing. She pulled a pillow over her head, as the loud noise got closer. Next the blinds in her room were flipped open letting the bright light shine through and right at her.

“Get up.” AJ commanded.

“Who in their right mind gave you a blow horn?” she groaned trying to shade her eyes from the sun. “Must you let every drop of light in here?”

“It wouldn’t bother you so much if you weren’t hung over, now get up or this goes off again.” He said threatening to sound the blow horn.

Ashley ignored him turning over in bed but regretted it a second later when the persistent horn sounded loudly throughout her room.

“Fine! I’m up.” She said sitting up in bed and glaring at him, ready to kill.

“Someone looks like they got hit by a truck.” AJ shook his head crossing his arms. “Have a fun night?”

Ashley didn’t answer so AJ continued. “Did you really think you would get away with it? Don’t you think I knew something was up with your sudden change in attitude yesterday and going to bed at 8:30? I think I know you a little better then that.”

“So why didn’t you just stop me.” She glared at him.

“I wanted to see just how far you’d push your luck. Let’s see what we can add to the list now…” he said as he paced slightly trying to retain his anger. “We have lying, sneaking out, underage drinking, coming home well past your curfew…anything else I should know about before we see just how worth it this little escapade of yours was?”

“Let me guess, you’re gonna tell mom?”

“Nope. You are.” He said and pointed towards the door. “Living room, now.”

Ashley sighed and made her way out of the room with AJ in toe. Just as she reached the door the loud sound of the blow horn filled her ears again and she cringed, grabbing her head in attempts to control the pain. She turned and glared at AJ.

“Woops, my finger slipped.” He smirked as she practically murdered him with her stare.

Ashley winced at the bright light shining through the living room. Looking around she saw that AJ had opened every curtain and made sure all the blinds were up to make the room as bright and unbearable as possible.

“What’s wrong? The sun a little to much for you?” he said with fake sympathy as she rubbed her temples and took a seat on the couch.

Ashley just rolled her eyes ignoring him as he picked up the phone.

“Hi mom.” AJ said cheerily. “Oh things are just splendid here, actually Ashley has a little story to tell you.”

He handed her the phone and she took a deep breath, letting it out slowly, as she held the phone up to her ear.

“Hi mom.” She bit her lip nervously as she retold Denise of her endeavors the previous night and early morning. She pulled the phone away from her ear slightly as Denise raised her voice in anger. Sighing she listened as Denise dictated her punishment. “Ok mom…I’m really sorry…I know, I’ll tell him.”

“Uh I hate you. Why can’t you just let me live my life? I’m not doing anything wrong.” She yelled tossing the phone down as she hung up. “Now thanks to you my life consists of sitting in my room in silence with no contact to the outside world for six weeks!”

“You’re really going to try and blame this on me?” he couldn’t help but laugh. “You would only be grounded until mom got home if you would have listened to me in the first place. Now you have to deal with the consequences. I’m sick of making up lies for you.”

“Why? I lied for you all those times when people asked me what was wrong with you. I knew I could have said something and I didn’t. Why can’t you just butt out of things?”

“Why does it always have to come back to what happened in the past. This has absolutely nothing to do with that.” AJ tried to maintain his anger.

“It always comes back to it because that’s what this is all about! You think that I’m going to fuck up like you did, but guess what Alex? I’m not like you. I’m not a loser who’s going to throw everything away for a cheap thrill.”

“Is that what you think of me? That I’m a loser?” she could hear the sadness in his voice.

“I didn’t mean that.” She said immediately regretting what had come out of her mouth.

“I can’t deal with you right now.” He ran a hand threw his hair in frustration. “Do what you want, I’m threw trying to help you.” He said as he walked out of the house.
End Notes:
this is 1 of my fav. chapters so far. please leave feedback and let me know what you think
Chapter 51 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Thanks to everyone who keeps reviewing, I appreciate it. I'm hoping to get a bunch of writing done this weekend, I know I've been slacking, but I'm trying to update more quickly from now on. Enjoy!
Since that morning, after AJ had walked out on her, things hadn’t been the same. The few days they had left before Denise returned were filled with nothing but tension and silence. Ashley had tried to apologize to AJ, but he wouldn’t speak to her. She felt shut out and closed off and she didn’t like it. She really hadn’t meant what she said about him that morning, and she regretted it the second it slipped from her mouth, but in the long run she knew there was nothing she could do to salvage their relationship at this point.

Since Denise had returned from her trip to New York Ashley had been under close watch. She wasn’t allowed to do anything aside from attending her practices. She was missing her friends terribly and needed them more then ever.

Ashley sighed as she turned over in bed staring at the picture on her nightstand. It was of her and her mother on her 12th birthday, just a few months before she passed. Ashley couldn’t believe how quickly time had gone by. Today was exactly three years since the plane crash. She had been strong over the past three years, but most of it was a facade. All of this excess stress and drama was beginning to take a toll on her emotionally and she really didn’t know how to handle it well.

Her punishment had finally ended and though they were opposed to it at first, Denise had convinced the play directors to give her the weekend off. Denise had wanted her to spend her weekend off at home with her and AJ, but Ashley had plans of her own. She was spending the weekend at Angel’s to try and get away from anything that would make her sad or angry. Although she was sorry for what she had said to AJ, in a way she was still mad at him for what he had done. He had ruined the end of her summer, in her mind, and also took away the little trust that Denise had in her.

Glancing at the clock she realized she would have to start getting ready soon. She sat up in bed stretching as she yawned. She got up and made her way to the bathroom taking a quick shower before packing some essentials and heading out to the living room. Denise was sitting there watching TV when she walked in.

“I’m just going to eat something and then I’m ready to go.” She said.

“Are you sure there’s nothing I can do to persuade you to stay home this weekend.” Denise asked hopefully.

“Mom, it’s not that I don’t want to spend time with you it’s just I miss Angel and I just need some girl time to relax. School starts up again soon and I won’t be seeing her that much.” Ashley said hoping she would understand.

“Just please don’t do anything stupid again. You know I hate grounding you.” Denise looked at her sincerely.

“Were going shopping for a little today and then were staying in the house all weekend watching movies and stuff, honest.” Ashley smiled telling the truth, she was in no way in the mood to party. “Believe me after being grounded half the summer I’m really not trying to do anything stupid to get back in that position.”

“I’m glad you learned your lesson, now go finish getting ready.” Denise smiled at her.

Shortly after they were on their way. Ashley stared out the window as they traveled down the freeway, lost in her own world.

“You know, despite all that’s happened this summer I’m still proud of you, I want you to know that.” Denise said breaking the silence.

“Thanks.” Ashley smiled a little. “I was thinking, maybe Sunday I could come home earlier and we could go out to dinner. We haven’t done that in a while.”

“I would like that.” Denise smiled at her as she pulled up to the Carter house. “Have a fun time, and call me if you need anything. Please be safe.”

“I will mom, see you Sunday.” She smiled and made her way inside.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“So he just hasn’t talked to you at all?” Angel said as she and Ashley walked into a store later on that day.

“Nope. Those last few days he only talked if it was necessary, and even then it was just like one or two words. I tried calling him a few times and he just ignores it. I feel bad but I didn’t mean what I said, he should know that.” Ashley sighed.

“That sucks. I’m sure he’s just upset, he’ll come around eventually.”

“Angel, it’s been like six weeks and he hasn’t gotten over it. I forgave him for all the mean things he said to me I don’t see why he’s being so stubborn about it.” She shook her head. “This isn’t what I want to be thinking about today, I need to keep thinking happy thoughts.”

“Ok, happy thoughts. Here’s one…what are we going to do tonight since you’ve been in prison the past month and a half?” Angel grinned as she sorted through the clothing racks.

“I kind of just wanted to chill out and watch movies or something, I’m not in a very social mood.”

“That’s it? I had like a billion cute guys lined up for you to choose from, I thought we could double. There’s this one guy Jake that’s been dying to meet you.” Angel grinned at her. “We haven’t gone out together in a long time, it would be so much fun.”

“I’m kind of over the whole dating thing right now. After everything with Steven I just need a break from guys. I’m just really not up to the whole faking a smile thing right now. Maybe next weekend or something, just not tonight.”

“Aww boo. You’re boring, but I understand. We can just stay in if that’s what you want.” She said as they made their way up to the register to pay.

Ashley placed the few things she had picked out down on the counter as the cashier smiled at her and started to ring up her purchases.

“That will be $307.69,” she said as she placed the last shirt in the bag. “Will that be cash or credit?”

“Credit.” Ashley said as she handed her the card.

“I’m sorry mam, your card has been declined.” The saleswoman said looking up at her.

“That can’t be right.” Ashley furrowed her brow in confusion. “There’s like no limit on that thing.”

The woman swiped her card once more and again handed it back to her.

“I’m sorry, it’s not working.”

“Do you want me to get it for you until you figure out what’s wrong?” Angel asked.

“No don’t worry, I have it.” Ashley sighed in frustration as she pulled another card out of her wallet. “I have my debit card.”

“When did you get that?” Angel raised an eyebrow in question.

“When I realized saving my allowance under my bed wasn’t the safest thing. So I put it in the bank, I’ve managed to save up a decent amount.”

“Here you go hun, sorry for the problems.” The woman said handing her the shopping bag and receipt. Have a wonderful day.”

“Oh yea, so wonderful. Let’s go get some lunch” She rolled her eyes as they exited the store.

They walked a few blocks to a small café. Once they were seated and had ordered she pulled her cell phone from her pocket and dialed the number on the back of her credit card. “I need to see what’s wrong with this thing.”

Angel watched Ashley’s expression as she listened to the operator on the phone. Ashley pursed her lips, visibly angered as she hung up the phone and tossed it back into her purse.

“That stupid jerk!” Ashley scowled crossing her arms as she tapped her foot angrily. She took a deep breath letting it out slowly, trying to maintain her cool.

“What?”

“He canceled my fricken credit card.” She leaned forward on the table resting her head in her hand as she rubbed her temples."This day is getting worse by the second."

“Are you serious?” Angel’s eyes grew wide. “What are you going to do?”

“What can I do Angel? He won’t talk to me. He obviously doesn’t want to have anything to do with me. There’s not much I can do.”

“He must really be mad to do something that drastic.”

“Whatever, I’m so done with him. He probably thinks he’s teaching me some stupid lesson. Like it’s gonna make a difference?” she sighed as she took a sip of her drink. “You know what this is a good thing.”

“It is?” Angel looked at her as if she had gone crazy.

“Yes. All the other times in the past when I didn’t want to talk to him anymore he could hold that against me.” She began to explain. “Now that we have no ties to each other it’s done and over with. I have no need for him and he has nothing on me.”

“Ash, he’s your brother. You guys fight all the time, you’ll work it out.” Angel reasoned with her.

“That’s exactly my point, I’m tired of fighting with him. Maybe it’s just better this way.” Ashley sighed. “For the both of us.”
Chapter 52 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Thanks so much to everyone who reviewed I really appreciate it!
When the girls arrived home later that afternoon Angel couldn’t help but notice how down and out Ashley was. This was a horrible day for her to begin with and it seemed no matter what she did to try and stay positive things kept getting worse. Angel knew that no matter how much she said things between her and AJ were over, that wasn’t what she wanted. However, she knew that Ashley meant what she said about this being the final straw. As they were sitting in the living room, watching TV, Angel observed her demeanor, trying to empathize with her and understand just how she was feeling, when Aaron snapped her out of her thought process.

“Oh hey guys, I didn’t think you’d be back so soon.” Aaron said taking a seat on the chair. “You getting into anything tonight?”

“Nope. Just gonna relax here for the night.” Angel smiled a little and motioned her head towards Ashley slightly. She was sitting on the couch, her knees pulled up to her chest, staring at the TV in her own world.

“Well I’m having some people over in the back house tonight…nothing crazy, you know it gets, but you guys should come chill.”

“We’ll see.” Angel said knowing Ashley wouldn’t be up for it.

“You can go if you want.” Ashley said once Aaron had left the room.

“What I want is to spend time with my best friend, so if you don’t want to go we don’t go.” Angel shrugged it off. “It’s just Aaron and his friends anyway, nothing spectacular.”

“I feel like I’m ruining your weekend. You had a date and everything and I’m messing it all up for you, I’m sorry. Maybe mom was right, maybe I should have just stayed home this weekend.” She sighed as she just stared down, trying to fight back tears.

“To do what? Mope around your room all day by yourself?” Angel asked. “You said yourself you need to think happy thoughts, so let’s think happy.”

“There’s nothing to be happy about Angel, you just don’t get it!” she yelled beginning to get angry at her friend, “My mom is gone and now I’m loosing my brother too.”

“Then do something about it.” Angel said frustrated. “Make him listen to you and just tell him you’re sorry.”

“Sorry doesn’t really work with him any more. He said it himself, he’s threw with me.” The tears finally began to fall.

“I don’t know what you want me to tell you then. If you don’t want to do anything to fix it, it’s never going to get better.

“No one’s asking for your help Angel.”

“Just stop acting like you’re the only one in this entire world that has problems. Yea, it completely sucks that you lost your mom and yes it sucks that AJ isn’t talking to you right now, but it will blow over.” Angel said angrily. “All you care about is how you feel and your problems, but did you ever think that I have problems of my own to deal with?”

“You’re talking like I’m some stuck up bitch, you never talk to me about problems so how the hell am I supposed to know? I’m not a psychic!”

“Uhh.” Angel groaned in frustration. “You know what? If you want to mope around here feeling sorry for yourself all weekend go ahead, I wont stop you. But I’m not about to join in on the pity party, I’m out of here.”

“Whatever, go do what you want. I don’t care.” Ashley crossed her arms and turned away from her.

“Fine.” Angel said after a moment and got up to leave the room.

Ashley turned back and watched as Angel made her way upstairs, visibly frustrated. Ashley sighed, a mixture of anger and sadness. She and Angel had never fought before and she wasn’t used to her best friend being angry with her. She didn’t understand what she had done wrong. Did Angel expect her to not be upset at all today? Why would she get mad at her for grieving? More and more Ashley was tempted to just call Denise and ask to come home.

As if on cue Ashley’s phone began to ring. Glancing at the caller ID she saw it was Denise.

“I sweat she has ESP.” Ashley took a deep breath, trying to calm down her emotions before picking up. “Hi mom.”

“Hi sweetheart!” Denise said cheerfully. “I just wanted to check in and see how you were doing and let you know that I’m staying at Alex’s this weekend.”

‘There goes going home’ she thought to herself before answering. “Everything’s great mom. We’re having a lot of fun.” She lied.

“Well if you need anything or if you need to talk just call the house ok sweetie?”
“Ok mom, I will.” She said.

“I love you sweet heart, have a good weekend.” Denise said.

“Love you too.” She replied and then hung up.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley sighed as she stared up at the ceiling in Angel’s room later that evening. Angel had left just a short while ago for her date that she had canceled earlier, leaving Ashley alone and even more depressed then before. She groaned in frustration as she flipped threw the channels and saw there was nothing on TV. This was not how she pictured spending her weekend. Tossing down the remote she got up from the bed and made her way to the window. She could see the back house in the distance and saw Aaron greeting his friends as they arrived. She really wasn’t up to a party, but anything beat staying alone all night just starring at the walls. Maybe once she was there she would cheer up a little. She quickly changed and made her way to the house.

“Hey!” Aaron said opening the door. “Didn’t expect to see you here. Where’s my sister?”
“Don’t know, don’t care.” She grumbled and made her way inside.
“Ohhkkay.” He said knowing not to push the topic any farther. “I’m pretty sure you know everyone here, so I guess just get a drink, chill whatever you want, were just laid back tonight.”

She poured herself a drink and took a seat off to the side of the room, not yet ready to mingle. She did know mostly everyone there but they weren’t her favorite people. Most of Aaron’s friends were jerks and treated her and Angel more like they were pieces of meat rather than people. The party, if it could even be called that, was nothing special. There was some music playing low in the background with most people sitting around drinking beers, a few more playing pool.

“Yo, the party’s here!” Aaron said as there was a knock on the door. Ashley turned her attention towards him curious as to who had arrived. “Adam! How’s it goin man?”

Ashley watched the small exchange between the two as she saw Aaron hand him some money. She could tell he was older, but she found him attractive. She continued watching him from the corner of her eye as they talked a little more and Adam handed Aaron a plastic bag before walking further into the room. He caught sight of her watching him and gave her a small smirk as he passed by.

“Who’s ready to light this shit up?” Aaron said shaking the bag in his hand. Ashley rolled her eyes, now wishing she had chosen to stay in Angel’s room, as she realized what was in the bag Aaron had just paid for. She knew he smoked occasionally, but had only been around him once before this. She knew she couldn’t just get up and walk out without looking stupid so she just decided to stay put, away from the others until they were done.

“Yo, who’s the chick?” Adam leaned over, motioning towards Ashley.

“Ashley? That’s my sisters friend, don’t mind her she’s just in one of those moods.”

“Why does she look familiar? Have I seen her before?”

“She was at that party a few weeks ago in Redondo, and she’s AJ’s sister.”

“That’s McLean’s little sister?” he raised an eyebrow. “She’s pretty hot. Might just have to chat her up a little. What do you know about her?”

“I’m not even gonna go there man. AJ hates you and if he knew I had her anywhere around you he’d kill me.” Aaron laughed. “You’re on your own.”

“Whatever man, I guarantee I’ll be leaving here with at least her number tonight.”

“She’s pretty feisty.” Aaron smirked. “I dunno if you could handle her.”

“I got this, you know they don’t call me The Tiger for nothing.” He said as he finished rolling his blunt. “Watch the master work his magic.”

“Good luck with that.”

Ashley saw him walking towards her and bit her lip nervously looking down, trying to hide her apprehension.

“What’s a beautiful girl like you doing over here by yourself?” he asked as he approached her and held up his blunt as a peace offering.

“No thanks, I don’t smoke.” She said pushing his hand away slightly.

“Why not.” He leaned against the wall, casually taking another puff from his blunt.

“I’m a singer, it will kill my throat.”

“Aaron’s a singer and he smokes all the time.” He argued.

“Not the best case in point there.” She laughed.

“Ok then what about your brother?” he raised an eyebrow in question.

“You know my brother?” she said steering away from the previous conversation.

“Used to.” He shrugged. “He dropped me a few years back, haven’t talked to him much since.”

“I guess he’s just a pro at dropping people.” She sighed. A confused glance from Adam caused her to go on. “Let’s just say were not exactly seeing eye to eye right about now, and I don’t think we will be anytime soon.”

“He’s just a different person now. No need for all that bullshit in your life.” Adam shrugged. “So you’ve never smoked before?”

“Once.” She said simply.

“You didn’t like it?” he asked as he continued to smoke.

“I never said that, I liked it but like I said it killed my throat. I was coughing too much.”

“You just gotta be smooth with it,” he said relocating to the arm of the chair she was sitting in. “Go nice and slow with it, just take it easy.” He offered her the blunt again and this time she accepted.

She did as he said inhaling nice and slow, taking it in for a second before exhaling. She was surprised when she hadn’t started coughing.

“See nice and smooth, just like a said. That’s some good shit right there.” He smirked at her.

She just nodded taking another puff before handing it back to him.

“I’m Adam by the way.” He took it back and continued to smoke.

“Ashley.” She smiled a little.

“Well Ashley, if you ask me this place blows. What do you say we get out of here for a little while, just take a walk or something.” He offered.

“You can walk me back to the main house.” She smiled a little as he stood and held his hand out to help her up from the chair.

Aaron looked at him and shook his head laughing as he saw them walk towards the door. Adam just grinned back and placed a hand on Ashley’s lower back as he led her out the door.
Chapter 53 by AshleyNicoleFans
“Sorry for cutting tonight short.” Angel apologized as her date pulled back up to her house. “I just feel rally bad about leaving Ashley by herself, I shouldn’t have been fighting with her to begin with.”

“You’re friend needs you, I understand. I’d do the same thing for my friend. It’s no big deal, as long as you promise me a rain check on the movie.” He smiled back at her.

“I’ll call you Monday and we’ll set something up.”

“Sounds good to me.” He smiled as she got out of the car and made her way back inside.

“Ash?” Angel called out as she walked into the dark house. When there was no response she made her way upstairs expecting to find her in her room, again she had no luck. She saw a light coming from under the doorway of one of the bathrooms and made her way over.

“Ashley?” she knocked slightly. Hearing the shower running she poked her head in. “Ash, is that you?”

“No, it’s me.” Leslie replied. “Last I saw Ashley was heading out to the back house to hang with Aaron.”

“Thanks.” Angel said before shutting the door and making her way out. When she reached the house she walked in immediately engulfed in the smoke. She coughed a little, rolling her eyes at the dim-witted actions of her brother and his friends.

“Where’s Ashley?” she said approaching Aaron.

“She left.” He said as he leaned back on the couch in a world of his own.

“She’s not back at the house yet. When did she leave?” Angel asked slightly agitated.

“I don’t know. Proably like fifteen or twenty minutes ago? She left with Adam so who knows when she’ll be back.” Aaron laughed a little.

“You let her leave with that dirt bag? Why would you do that?” she was now furious.

“I can’t control her life, she’s gonna do what she wants to do no matter what I say.” Aaron rolled his eyes, not in the mood to deal with his sister. “He said something about walking her back to the house, maybe they just got sidetracked.”

“You’re starting to get just as bad as that loser friend of yours, you need to lay off that shit.” Angel rolled her eyes at the stupid grin on Aarons face and turned to leave in hopes of finding Ashley.




“Thanks for walking me back here.” She smiled at Adam as she took a seat on one of the patio chairs.

“You’re much better company then those guys back there.” He took a seat next to her. “I hope you don’t think that I was trying to force you to smoke back there or anything. You just looked like you needed something to relax you.”

“I make my own decisions, you didn’t force me.” She shrugged.

“So why do you look like you’re carrying the weight of the world babe, you’re too beautiful to be so stressed out.”

“You really think you’re Mr. Smooth don’t you?” she laughed shaking her head slightly. Adam just smirked coyly and cocked an eyebrow. “Well, it takes a lot more then a few compliments and smooth lines to win me over.”

“I like a challenge.” He said placing his hand on her knee.

“We’ll see about that.” Ashley smirked. She heard footsteps coming from the dark walkway in front of them. She quickly pushed his hand from its place on her knee and was relieved when she saw it was only Angel.

“I’ve been looking for you everywhere.” Angel sighed walking over to them. She sent a cold stare towards Adam that neither of them failed to notice.

“When did you get home?” Ashley asked not knowing what the rude stare was about.

“Thirty minutes ago, and I’ve been walking all over the place ever since looking for you. I thought you were staying in tonight.”

“Excuse me for getting bored, you’re the one who left me by myself.” She said with a snotty tone.

“Yea and I felt so bad for fighting with you that I couldn’t even sit through the whole movie. We need to talk, why don’t you come inside and we can have the girls night we originally wanted.” Angel offered trying to get her away from Adam before it was too late.

“I was in the middle of a conversation.” Ashley pursed her lips, not wanting Angel to ruin everything. Angel gave her a pleading look and Ashley sighed. “I’ll come inside in a few minutes, promise.”

“Fine.” Angel gave in and made her way back inside, watching the two from the window, being careful not to be seen.

“Sorry about that. We got into a little fight today and I guess she’s just still mad.” Ashley apologized.

“It’s ok. She’s never really liked me, I’m used to it. I guess you better get inside before she flips out.”

“She’ll live.” Ashley shrugged and smiled at him a little.

“Listen, I’d really like to see you some other time, you know take you out and show you a good time. Can I get your number?” he asked returning the smile.

“Now what kind of a challenge would it be if I just gave it to you?” she smirked at him as she licked her lips. Adam just shook his head with a slight chuckle. “You seem like a smart guy, I’m sure you’ll find a way to get it.”

With that she got up and made her way towards the door. Angel quickly ran upstairs so she wouldn’t get caught spying. As she reached the door she felt Adams hand grabbing hers to stop her. He turned her to face him and grinned at her, catching her off guard as he placed a quick kiss on her lips.

“I’ll be talking to you soon.” He said before walking off back towards the party.

Ashley stood there in shock for a moment watching him walk away. She couldn’t help but smile as she made her way back inside. She didn’t know what it was about him, but he intrigued her and she wanted to know more about him. She knew not giving him her number was a risky move, but she knew he’d get it from Aaron easily.

She made her way upstairs to Angels bed room and was surprised to see her sitting there, in a chair, arms crossed, just waiting for her to walk in.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” Angel asked not wasting any time.

“What are you talking about?” Ashley asked, knowing what she was aiming at.

“Of all people in the world you choose to talk to Adam?” Angel tried not to raise her voice, unsure of who was home at the time. “You do realize he’s a drug dealer don’t you?”

“I think you’re blowing things a little out of proportion Angel. Just because he gets your brother his weed doesn’t make him a drug dealer.” Ashley rolled her eyes.

“Hello! Weed is an illegal drug and he sells it, therefore he is a drug dealer.” Angel shook her head at Ashley’s stupidity.

“He’s a nice guy, maybe if you would just take the chance and get to know him.” Ashley defended.

“Oh because you took all of what half an hour? I’m sure you know him so well.” She rolled her eyes. “You do realize that he’s like 22. You’re 15 that’s illegal.”

“Were just talking, it’s only illegal if you mess around. Besides I didn’t even give him my number or anything. And how are you going to tell me about age when you just went on a date with an 18 year old.” She pointed out.

“Number one he just turned 18 and he’s in high school.” Angel argued back “And you don’t think Aaron won’t give it to him when he asks? You weren’t giving him any signs that you weren’t into him. Why wouldn’t he go for it?”

“So what if I’m into him, he’s hot and he’s a nice guy. Why are you trying to ruin the only good thing that’s happened today?” Ashley said angrily.

“You’re hopeless.” Angel groaned in frustration. “You know what do whatever the hell you want. Just don’t come crying to me when he turns out to be an absolute asshole.”

“I won’t talk to him Angel. Is that what you want to hear?” Ashley rolled her eyes. “If it’s that big of a deal to you it’s done and over with and he’s out of my head. Happy?”

“It’s not that I don’t’ want you to be happy, I just don’t want you to get mixed in with someone who I know is a bad person. He’s no good for you, you can do so much better then him.” Angel sighed trying to make Ashley understand where she was coming from.

“Can we just drop this and go to bed? I just want this day to be over.” She said somberly.

“Gladly. But I don’t want us fighting anymore. I hate it.” Angel said before pulling her into a hug. “You’re my best friend and I just don’t want you to get hurt.”

“No more fighting.” Ashley hugged her back.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Yo, my man what’s good?” Aaron asked picking up his phone. “That shit the other night was intense, you hooked the kid up.”

“You know I always have the best shit.” Adam said before getting into his main reason for calling. “But hey man, gotta keep this quick, I need a favor. You wouldn’t happen to have Ashley’s number, would you?”

“What happened to the Tiger?” Aaron laughed. “Thought you said you’d handle getting the number on your own the other night.”

“It’s all good, she’s just trying to play hard to get. I told her I was up for the challenge. Test number one, getting her number on my own. So do you have it or not?”

“I got reamed a new one by my sister for just letting her talk to you, she’d kill me if I gave it to you.” Aaron sighed.

“Come on man look at all I hook you up with, the least you can do is give me her number.” Adam argued.

“What’s in it for me?” Aaron asked. “If my sister finds out my ass is grass, so there better be some incentive in this.”

“Swing by my place next Friday, I’m getting in some exclusive shit. I’ll let you sample then whatever you want is half off. Is that incentive enough?”

“You speak my language.” Aaron laughed as he quickly went through his phone for the number. “If anyone asks you did not get this number from me.”

“Yea, yea, not a word.” He said as he jotted down the number. “Thanks man, see you when I see you.”

As he hung up the phone Adam decided to waste no time. He quickly dialed the number he had jotted down on the paper in front of him.

Ashley quietly slipped out of rehearsal as her phone started to vibrate in her bag. She glanced at the caller ID, not recognizing the number, before flipping it open.

“Hello?” she said timidly not sure of who was on the other side. In the past months she had been getting a good deal of prank calls and hang-ups.

“Ashley?” came the other voice.

“Umm yea, who’s this.” She said, well knowing who it was.

“What a few days go by and you forget all about me?” he joked, sounding hurt.

She couldn’t help but smile, even though in the back of her mind her promise to Angel rang through.

“Took you a little longer then I expected to get my number, maybe you’re not as good as you thought.” She teased.

“I’ll let you be the judge of that when you let me take you out this weekend.”

“Oh really? What makes you think I even want to see you again?” she flirted.

“Babe, I know that little kiss the other night has you wanting to come back for more, you don’t need to hide it.”

“Someone’s a little cocky. You think you’re just that smooth, huh?” she laughed a bit.

“Not cocky, just confident.” He corrected. “Come on babe, you know you want to see me again.”

“I’m a busy girl, let me see if I can work something out.”

“Oh have to pencil me in huh?” he chuckled. “Why don’t you see what you can do and call me back tonight with an answer.”

“Sounds good, I’ll talk to you later.” She said trying to maintain her growing smile.

“Later babe.”

Ashley sighed as she hung up the phone. She wanted to see him again but she knew it would be tricky. Denise wouldn’t let her date anyone she hadn’t met and she knew Denise would never approve of Adam. She couldn’t stay at Angel’s house without her knowing she was breaking her promise. Why did this have to be so complicated? Just then a light bulb went off in her head and she quickly dialed a number on her phone.

“Jared? Hey!” she said as he picked up the phone. “Remember when I said I’d figure out a way for you to pay me back for the whole dad thing…”
Chapter 54 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
just wanted 2 say sorry for taking so long to update recently ive just been really busy with school and i just started working at a new job so im trying to manage everything as best i can but im trying 2 get better on updating faster but thanks so much for sticking with me!
“Remind me again why we had to lie to your mom?” Jared said sitting around his room late that Saturday afternoon. “Why can’t you just tell her you’re going on a date?” he asked curiously.

Ashley had convinced Jared to go along with her story of spending the day with his family in Los Angeles with his family, but she had been very vague about the whole situation and he was beginning to wonder why.

“She has too many rules about who I can and can’t date and it’s just a hassle. I really like this guy and I don’t want her crazy questioning to scare him off.” She lied. “Plus when I’m with you at your dads I don’t have a curfew.”

“I just hate lying to your mom.” He sighed.

“That’s why I did all the talking.” She rolled her eyes as she flipped through the channels on the TV. “Besides I lie to your dad all the time for you, I think you can do it this once for me.”

“Fine, but I’m not happy about it.” He sighed.

“You don’t have to be as long as we pull it off.” She said getting up from the bed and grabbing the bag she had brought with her. “I have to start getting ready or I’m not gonna be done in time.”

Jared watched as Ashley walked off towards the bathroom to get ready. He knew there was more to the story then what she was letting on, but he knew that he owed her big time for all that she had been doing for him the past few months. As much as he hated to go along with her plan he knew he had no other choice. He was snapped from his thoughts when he heard his bedroom door open again.

“So what do you think?” Ashley asked as she walked back into his room. She was dressed in a denim mini-skirt with a black halter that had a deep neckline.

“You look like you’re twenty.” Jared said in shock as he looked over her outfit.

“Really?” she grinned, looking herself over in the mirror.

“So who is this guy anyway? You’re usually spilling your brains out about new guys, why are you keeping this so hushed?” Jared raised an eyebrow as he watched her continue to get ready.

“His name is Adam and I met him at Angel’s last weekend. I just want to keep things on the low for right now because after everything I’ve been through with guys this year I don’t want to jinx anything.”
Jared looked at her suspiciously knowing there was more to it then that, but he decided not to push it further.

“If tonight goes well then I’ll tell you more, but let’s just leave it at that for now ok?” she smiled at him a little trying to reassure him that there was nothing going on.

“So when is this guy coming to pick you up?” Jared finally decided to drop his suspicions, satisfied with her final answer.

“In like twenty minutes.” Ashley said checking the time. “Are you sure I look ok? I don’t want to seem like I’m overdoing it.’

“Babe, you look amazing. You’ll blow this guy away.” Jared smiled.

“Hope so.” She bit her lip nervously as she looked herself over once more.



Ashley’s phone rang just as she finished straightening her hair. She looked at the caller ID and smiled picking up the phone.

“Hey Adam.”

“I’m outside, I think.” He laughed as he checked the address she had given him one more time.

Ashley peaked out Jared’s window and saw a black car sitting across the street from the house.

“I’ll be out in a minute.” She said and hung up.

“Date’s here?” Jared asked as he looked out the window, hoping to catch a glimpse of the reclusive guy. “He can’t even come to the door to pick you up?”

“Jared I know you’re a hopeless romantic and all that stuff, but no one comes to the door anymore.” Ashley laughed a little.

“I do.”

“Because you think like a woman, not a man.” She teased and hugged him. “I’ll call you when I’m on my way back. I’ll try not to be too late.”

“Have a good time, and be safe.” Jared said as he watched her slip on her heels and leave. He turned his attention back to the window and watched her cross the street and get into the car.

“Hey babe.” Adam grinned as Ashley got into the car. He leaned over and kissed her cheek. “You look amazing.”

“Thanks.” She smiled shyly as she blushed.

“I hope you’re hungry. There’s this really great place in West Hollywood that a friend of mine just opened up. I figured we could try it out.” Adam said as he got onto the highway.

“Sounds good to me.” She fidgeted with hands a little, still nervous about the upcoming night.

“Relax.” Adam smiled as he took hold of her hand, noticing her apprehension. “We’re gonna have a lot of fun to night.”

Ashley just turned and smiled at him as her nervousness slowly started to disappear.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

By the time dinner was over Ashley had loosened up completely. She couldn’t help but smile as Adam placed a hand on her lower back as he led her out of the restaurant.

“So what else would you like to do?” Adam asked as they waited for his car in front of the restaurant. “The night is young.”

“I don’t know.” Ashley shrugged a little. “I’m up for anything.”

“Well why don’t we go back to my house, relax for a little and try to figure something out.”

“Sounds good to me.”

The valet pulled the car up front and they made their way back to Adam’s house. After a short drive Ashley looked up as they pulled into the drive way.

“This is where you live?” she said eyeing the large house in front of her.

“Yea my brother and his girlfriend live in the back but the main house is mine.” He said as they got out of the car.

“That’s cool.” She smiled as they walked through the front door.

They walked into the living room and Ashley took a seat as the phone began to ring.

“I’ll be right back, let me just get this call quick.” He said looking at the caller ID. He picked up the phone and walked into the other room as Ashley sat around taking in her surroundings.

“You wouldn’t want to go to a party tonight, would you?” Adam asked as he came back into the living room after hanging up the phone. “That was one of my boys. He told about this new DJ spinning at Club X tonight. It’s supposed to be insane.”

“Sounds good, but incase you forgot I can’t exactly get into a club.”

“Don’t worry about that, I know the bouncer. Just smile and look pretty and I’ll do all the talking.” He smiled and leaned in taking the opportunity to kiss her. “I’m sorry, I’ve been wanting to do that all night.”

A shy smile crept back on Ashley’s face as she felt her cheeks blush. She licked her lips and pulled him back to her kissing him once more.

“We’re gonna be out pretty late, is that ok?” Adam asked as he pulled away from the kiss.

“I’ll get around it.” Ashley grinned. She pulled out her phone and stood up. “I just need to make a phone call and we should be good to go.”

Ashley walked to the main foyer of the house and dialed her house.

“Hey mom!” she said as Denise picked up. “Everything’s going good, we’re having a fun time.”

She listened as Denise talked before starting again.

“Jared’s starting to get a little tired and his dad really doesn’t want him to drive home tonight. Would it be ok if we just stayed here and came home in the morning?” she smiled as Denise agreed to her staying the night. “Thanks mom, I’ll see you tomorrow, probably in the afternoon.”

“Party’s a go.” She smiled as she walked back into the living room.

“Good, we’re gonna have a lot of fun.” He smiled and pulled her back down onto the couch and into another kiss. “When do you have to be home?”

“I told her I’d be home sometime tomorrow afternoon.” She said as she placed her phone down.

“How’d you swing that?”

“She thinks I’m with my friends’ family. I guess for some reason she still trusts me.” Ashley shrugged.

“Is there some reason why she shouldn’t?” he raised an eyebrow as he pulled her from next to him to his lap, his leg resting on her thigh.

“You tell me.” She smirked at him licking her lips as she leaned in and kissed him once more.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Angel sighed as Ashley’s voice mail answered once again. She hung up the phone, not bothering to leave a message and called her house number. After a few rings Denise picked up.

“Hi Denise, it’s Angel. I was trying to get in touch with Ashley but she’s not answering her phone.” Angel said.

“Oh I’m sorry sweet heart, she’s not home tonight. She’s at Jared’s father’s house. I’m not sure when she’ll be home.” Denise informed her. “Maybe you can reach her on his phone. They’re having a barbeque I’m sure she just doesn’t have her phone on her at the moment.”

“Thanks, I’ll try that.” Angel said before hanging up.

Angel searched through her contact list for Jared’s number calling him.

“Hello.” Jared answered after a few rings.

“Hey hun, it’s Angel. Is Ashley around? I need to ask her something.”

“Oh umm…” Jared trailed off not sure what to say. “She’s not exactly with me right now.”

“Where is she?”

“She’s out on a date.” Jared said timidly.

“Why did Denise say she was out with you then?”

“She needed me to cover for her. She said she didn’t want to deal with all of Denise’s questioning.”

“Who is she out with?” Angel was beginning to grow angry, knowing who Jared was going to say. She couldn’t believe Ashley would go against her word, after promising never to talk to Adam. “It better not be Adam.”

“Yeah, that’s him. Why? Who is this guy?” Jared said now beginning to get nervous.

“He’s scum.” Angel sighed, anger apparent in her voice. “He’s this 22 year old sleaze ball who has nothing better to do then hit on younger girls and deal drugs.”

“What?” Jared said not believing what Angel was saying. “That’s why she was so vague on everything that was going on. She knew if I knew I wouldn’t let her go.”

“I can’t believe she would go out with him after she promised me that she would never talk to him again.” Angel shook her head in disappointment. ”That’s why she hasn’t talked to me this week.”

“I can’t believe she would lie to me about this. I mean I knew something was up but is she really stupid enough to go out with someone like that?”

“Apparently.” Angel sighed. “Whatever, I’m done warning her. Let her learn the hard way.”
Chapter 55 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
ok so this was a really hard chapter to write mostly the last scene. AJ made a small appearance in the chapter but will be more prominent in the next one. Please leave feedback on this one if you can I really want to know what you guys think.
“Hey man.” Adam greeted a friend in the VIP area of Club X after they successfully got inside. Ashley was surprised at how easy it was for her to slip right by security. Adam had even managed to get her a wristband so she could drink with no problem.

Adam wasted no time pouring himself a drink and offering one to Ashley. As she sat there sipping her drink of rum and coke she took in her surroundings. A few more people made their way into the VIP section before Adam took a seat next to her.

“I had to get here a little early to help work some things out and meet with a few people.” He took a swig of his beer before continuing, “Let me introduce you to some people so you’re not alone, then I’ll be gone for a little.”

“Ok, I guess.” She smiled a little as he held out his hand, helping her off the couch. Placing a hand on her lower back he led her over to the small group of people.

“Cara, Steph I just wanted to introduce you to As…”

“Nikki.” Ashley cut him off before he could get her name out. She looked at him and smiled hoping he would follow her lead.

“Nikki.” He continued as he cast her a quick look of confusion. “She’s my guest tonight, but unfortunately work calls. So just make sure she has everything she needs and I’ll be back soon.”

“No problem.” Stephanie said with a coy smile, her hand tracing his arm visibly flirting with him.

Ashley noticed it, but shrugged it off as Adam pulled her to the side.

“Nikki?” he asked with a raised brow.

“Its my middle name, just a precaution in case anyone knows my brother.” She was pretty sure she had seen Cara a few times out with AJ and wanted to take no chanced in slipping who she really was.

“Beauty and brains huh? I sure know how to pick them.” Adam grinned as he kissed her quickly. “Go have fun and I’ll be back when the party really picks up.”

Ashley watched for a second as he took off for what looked like a back office. Once he was out of sight she made her way back towards the two girls.

“Nikki right?” Cara asked as she took a seat. “You look familiar, have we met before?”

“I get that all the time. I guess I just have one of those faces.” Ashley smiled through her lies.

“Have you and Adam been friends for long?” Stephanie asked.

“We met at a party last week and I guess we just hit it off.”

“You seem pretty close for only knowing him a week.” She said, visibly jealous.

“Like I said, we just hit it off.” She shrugged.

The girls kept up the small talk for a short while longer before falling into an awkward silence. She couldn’t help but notice Stephanie’s glances towards her every so often. She poured herself another drink as she scanned the club hoping Adam would come back soon. She was snapped from her thoughts when she heard someone talking to her.

“Sorry, what did you say?” she apologized turning her attention back to the two girls.

“Were hitting the dance floor you coming?” Cara asked.

“Sure.” Ashley smiled as she got up, anything was better then just sitting there.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Speak to me.” AJ said picking up his phone.

“Yo man, it’s D.” his old friend responded.

“Hey! It’s been a while. What’s goin on man? How the hell you been?” AJ asked surprised to receive a call from him.

“It’s been goin good man, miss seeing you around though. Where you been hiding out?”

“I’ve just been trying to keep myself busy and out of trouble, you’ve been there you know how it is.”

“Well listen man, are you getting into anything tonight?” Damien asked. “I’m getting back into spinning and I’m opening at X in about 20 minutes.”

“Man anywhere else and you know I’d be down.” AJ sighed slowly. “I’m not exactly welcomed there anymore, especially with the crowd that chills there tonight.”

“I know you’re not really down with anyone there anymore, but you’ve been my boy since day one. I wanted to see you out there.”

“D, any other time and place I’d be there, I just can’t be around those people right now.” AJ felt bad letting his friend down, but he knew he couldn’t go there without causing problems.

“It’s all good man, I understand.” Damien reassured him.

“Stop by my place tomorrow and let me know how it goes, if you want. It will be good to see you. Kill it tonight.” AJ offered.

“Sounds good, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley moved her hips in time with the music, lost in the rhythm. Adam watched her from the bar, grinning in anticipation of getting her home later that night, as his friend Damien approached.

“Hot set.” Adam said, not taking his eyes off Ashley and her seductive dance moves. As she caught him watching her she winked and gave him a little wave.

“Thanks. Who’s the chick?” Damien asked following Adam’s line of vision.

“That’s Ash…Nikki.” he corrected himself. “She’s pretty hot, huh?”

“Where’d you meet this one?” Damien rolled his eyes at his friend.

“Some party…doesn’t really matter. She’s got it bad for me, I can’t wait to hit that.”

“Oh you’re such the sweet talker.” Damien laughed as Ashley approached them

“Done working?” she smiled at Adam.

“Yup. I’m all yours.” He grinned wrapping his arm around her waist, kissing her. “Babe this is D, the one who just finished spinning.”

“You were amazing.” Ashley said over enthusiastically, her intoxication apparent.

“Thanks.” Damien just smiled back.
“Let’s head back to the VIP.” Adam took Ashley’s hand and Damien followed.

“Babe we need to do a shot together.” Ashley said as they got back in.

“Sure you haven’t had enough?” Adam laughed.

“One more shots not going to kill me. You in?” she turned to Damien.

“I don’t drink.” Damien answered.

“Boring!” Ashley laughed and grabbed the shot glass from Adam.

After a short while of talking and some more dancing Ashley was beginning to grow tired. She made her way back over to Adam interrupting his conversation.

“Babe, I’m getting tired. Can we head home soon?” she grinned looping her finger in his belt loops and kissing his neck.

“I think that’s my cue to get the hell out of here.” Adam grinned towards Damien who just shook his head.

“Have a good night man. I guess I’ll catch you around.” Damien said. “Nice meeting you Nikki.”

“Huh?” she asked confused at first. “Oh me Nikki, right.” She laughed.
“It was nice meeting you too…A…B…C…D!” she finally found the letter she was looking for.

“I think you should take her home and right to bed.” Damien looked at Adam with unease. “She’s pretty trashed.”

“Oh I’ll take her to bed alright.” Adam laughed. He held onto Ashley as he said his goodbyes then the two exited the club together to make their way home.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley stumbled out of cab, Adam following as they made their way to the front door. Adam fumbled with his keys, finally getting the front door open. Ashley kicked off her heels in the foyer, finally glad to be free of her shoes.

“I’m gonna grab a water, can you make it upstairs?” Adam asked. “It’s the last door on the left.”

Ashley just nodded and headed over towards the stairs slowly making her way up them.


She entered the room and immediately fell back onto the bed her mind clouded still by the alcohol. She could feel the want and need for sleep creeping up on her as she yawned, lying there barely mobile. She heard the door open and slightly opened her eyes as she saw Adam come in. She could hear him unbuckle his belt and toss his shirt to the ground.

“I couldn’t take my eyes off of you on the dance floor tonight.” He said taking a seat on the edge of the bed.

She smiled a little, still not moving much as her tiredness grew stronger.

“You don’t understand how much you were turning me on tonight. Those little looks you kept giving me.” He leaned down kissing her. She returned his kisses as she snaked her arms around his neck. A slight moan escaped her lips as his hand slipped under her top.

“I couldn’t wait to get you home and out of this sexy little outfit of yours.

That last line snapped Ashley out of the trance the alcohol had her in. She had no intentions of sleeping with Adam tonight.

“Adam, I just want to take things slow.” She said trying to make her intentions clear, but Adam didn’t seem to be listening. He let his hands freely roam her body as he traced kisses across her neck and chest as he untied her top. Ashley pushed him away slightly as his hands found their way to her thighs.

“Slow down.”

“Don’t fight it baby, I can see how bad you want me.” He said as he began to undo her skirt. “I promised you a good time, let me keep my promise.”

“Adam no, I don’t want to.” She tried to push him off of her but his strength was too great, especially in her drunken state. She was beginning to frustrate him and she could tell.

“Come on baby, just let me please you.” His drunken grin was now beginning to make her sick to her stomach. She attempted to push him away again. Adam pined her arms down above her head in frustration with one hand as he managed to undo her skirt with the other.

“I’ll make it good for you baby, don’t you worry.”

Ashley knew the struggle was no use. She was no match for his strength. She blinked her eyes as a few tears slid down her face. As she felt him position himself on top of her she closed her eyes wishing she was anywhere else but there.
Chapter 56 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
longest chapter in a while...let me know what your reactions are :-) hopefully I can write more soon.
Ashley lay in bed the next morning too afraid to open her eyes. She didn’t want to come to terms with the reality of last night. She curled up in the fetal position pulling the sheet that was covering her body closer. Listening for a moment she cold tell that no one was in the room with her. She slowly opened her eyes, praying it was a bad dream, but knowing it wasn’t.

Sitting up in bed she could hear noises coming from downstairs. Taking in her surroundings she was relieved to see the empty condom wrapper on the floor.

‘At least he had the decency to use protection.’ she thought to herself. She saw Adam had left her out some clothes and she quickly pulled on the oversized shorts and t-shirt. She timidly made her way down stairs knowing she would have to face him sooner or later.

“Finally up?” Adam smiled at her as she walked into the kitchen. He pulled her into a hug, her body tensing up at his touch. She could barely restrain herself from throwing up when he leaned in and kissed her. “I had a lot of fun yesterday.”

Ashley just nodded a little and tried to get free of his grasp, still not saying a word.

“You were so good last night baby.” He continued as he began kissing her neck. Ashley bit her lip, trying hard to hold back her tears. When she felt his hands sliding up under her shirt she couldn’t take it anymore. She quickly pushed him away and ran towards the nearest room. Slamming the door shut she leaned up against it slowly sliding down to the floor as she let her tears flow freely. She pulled her knees close to her chest, tears not letting up as she heard Adam knocking on the door.

“Babe are you ok?” he asked as he knocked twisting the doorknob. Ashley quickly reached up, locking the door before he could come in.

“I’m fine, just feeling sick.” She lied through her tears. “Just a little hangover.”

“Let me in babe.” He said jiggling the knob a little.

“I’m fine really. I’ll be right out, just give me a minute.” She tried to keep her voice steady as she spoke.

She heard his footsteps getting farther away and sighed wiping her eyes as she continued to cry. She didn’t know what to do. She had no one to turn to, no one knew about where she was or who was with this weekend and telling someone would only make matters worse. She got up and stared at her tear stained face in the mirror. How did she ever let it come to this?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“My man!” Damien said as AJ opened the door.

“Surprised to see you this early.” AJ laughed letting him inside.

“Nothing’s keeping me down anymore, you know how it is. I’m feeling good these days.”

The two men made their way into the living room taking a seat on the couch.

“How long you been sober now?” AJ asked.

“Just about eight months. I’m just now getting back to work though. It’s tough to get back out into that scene but I gotta make money somehow.” He sighed.

“Just stay strong, you can do it.” AJ reassured him. “So how did last night go?”

“The crowd was crazy, it was pretty intense. It felt great to get back out there though.”

“I’m sure it did. I remember my first show after I got out of rehab. That rush was better then any high I could ever imagine.” AJ smiled. “Who all was there?”

“Same old crew. Steph, Dani, Cara, Todd, JJ and Adam.”

AJ rolled his eyes at the mention of the name. He and Adam hadn’t been on good terms since he got out of rehab. He was one of those who refused to admit he had a problem and constantly tried to get AJ back into his habits, until he finally cut him off.

“Adam was there with some crazy ass chick…Nikki I think. I’ve never seen her before but the chick was drowning in booze. She barely looked old enough to be in there, let alone drinking, but you know Adam.

“I don’t know how I ever used to hang with that guy. He’s pure scum.”

“He hasn’t got any better either. Be happy you avoided that place last night. As good as the money is I don’t think I ever wanna spin there again. The people have gotten worse, if you can believe that.” Damien told him.

“Well that was where we all went when we were completely strung out, you can’t expect anything else. I went in there once since I got out of rehab and just looking around it I couldn’t believe I ever went there, I can only imagine how bad it’s got since then.”

Damien went to speak as the phone began to ring.

“Hold that thought.” AJ said quickly as he got up to answer the phone. “Gimme a minute, this is my manager about a meeting.”

He hurried to his office to retrieve the phone, leaving Damien in the living room. Knowing AJ would be a few minutes he took the opportunity to look over some of the pictures and statues he had scattered around his bookcase and tables. His eyes grew wide as he spotted an all too familiar face. Embraced in a hug with AJ was none other then Nikki, Adams girl from the club last night.

“Hey sorry about that man.” AJ walked back into the room and spotted the troubled look on Damien’s face. “What’s wrong?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley sighed in relief as the car finally pulled up outside of Jared’s house. The car ride had gone by fairly quick but to Ashley it felt like a million years. She needed to get away from Adam she couldn’t stand to look at him anymore. Each time he smiled over at her she wanted to scream. He acted as if he had done nothing wrong, as if what he had done to her last night was wanted. As she tried to exit the car Adam grabbed her arm pulling her back in.

“I don’t get a good bye?” he smirked and leaned in for a kiss. Ashley turned her cheek before his lips could reach hers. “What’s wrong?”

“I told you I’m just not feeling good…it’s nothing.” She lied and tried to get out of the car again.

“When can I see you again?” he pushed some hair behind her ear.

‘Never’ her mind wanted to scream. “I’m not sure.” She said timidly.

“Well call me, I want us to spend more time together.” He grinned. That grin made Ashley cringe. How could she not see through him before? She should have just listened to Angel.

“I have to get home.” She said and quickly got out of the car before he could stop her again. As he drove off Ashley took a deep breath, glad to finally be rid of him, at least for now.

She walked into the backyard, knowing that Jared would be by the pool. She planted a fake smile on her face as she approached him.

“How nice of you to finally come back.” Jared rolled his eyes from his chair, floating in the pool.

Ashley just shrugged taking a seat along the edge, dipping her feat in the water.

“Hope it was worth getting your best friend pissed at you.”

“What are you talking about?” she raised a brow.

“Angel called.” He informed her.

“Did you tell her where I was?” Ashley bit her lip nervously.

“She kind of figured it out on her own when I said you were on a date. Why didn’t you tell me the truth about this guy?” Jared said as he got out of the pool.

“I didn’t think there was much to tell.” Ashley lied wishing she could just drop all conversation about him.

“How’s about that he’s 22 for starters. What were you thinking?”

“Apparently I wasn’t.” she mumbled and got up walking into the house. She grabbed the clothes she had left and quickly changed.

Jared sighed and followed her back inside. “Look, it’s not that age is really that important, but it’s the other stuff Angel told me that worries me. If you knew all this about him then why would you still go on a date with him.”

“I thought he was a nice guy.” She said walking back out of the bathroom.

“Thought?” Jared looked at her with concern.

“Can you just bring me home? I had a long night and I’m tired.”

“You have to give me about fifteen minutes. My mom’s gonna be home soon and I promised her I’d have the laundry done when she got back.” Jared said as he grabbed the last few pieces of clothes stranded on his floor. “You can hang out here or help me.”

Ashley laughed a little as Jared rolled her eyes. “That’s what I thought.”

Once Jared was out of the room Ashley picked up her phone to call Angel. She needed to talk to someone and she knew Jared wouldn’t understand. She was just hoping that Angel would listen to her.

“What do you want?” Angel said picking up the phone angrily.

“I need to talk to you.”

“What for?”

“Angel I…” she struggled to find the right words.

“You completely went against your word and went out with that jerk?” Angel finished her sentence.

“Yea…I was going to tell you, I just…”

“Look, do whatever you want. I don’t care anymore. Call me when you get a clue.” Angel cut her off.

“Angel wait!” Ashley yelled but it was too late, her best friend had now too given up on her. She had never felt so alone.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

As they pulled up to Ashley’s house she was relieved to see no car in the driveway. She would at least have some time to herself to think before Denise came home.

She said goodbye to Jared and made her way inside. As she passed the living room she jumped not expecting to see someone there.

“Alex. What are you doing here?” she looked at him questionably.

“I came by to see how everything was going.” He got up from the couch and made his way over to her trying to examine her without notice.

“Well I don’t know where mom is, I wasn’t home.” She said and attempted to make her way to her room.

“I haven’t talked to you in almost two months and you don’t even want to sit in here for a few minutes with me?”

“Last time I checked you stopped talking to me. I tried to call you.” She rolled her eyes.

“Well, let’s talk now.” He pointed towards the couch. Ashley sighed and walked over to the couch taking a seat. “So how was your weekend?”

“Fine.” She leaned back knowing he would make this conversation longer then it needed to be.
“Oh before I forget, there’s someone here I want you to meet.” He stood back up and walked towards the kitchen.

“Yo, D can you come in here?” he called out.

‘D?’ Ashley’s heart began to beat faster, ‘it couldn’t be…SHIT!’ Ashley’s mind raced as she recognized the man who joined AJ in the doorway.

AJ smirked at the shocked expression on Ashley’s face.

“Weren’t expecting to see him so soon were you Ashley…or should I say Nikki?” AJ crossed his arms and glared down his younger sister.

Ashley was speechless, she had no clue what to do or say. She was busted and there was no way to talk her way out of this one.

“Should I even ask what you’re doing out in LA last night?” he finally spoke up.

“Alex, I really don’t want to talk about this…let’s just race to the end where you tell mom and I get grounded for the rest of my life ok?”

“I have to hear from my friend that my 15 year old sister was out partying and drunk off her ass at some club on Sunset and you expect me not to ask any questions? Are you really serious?” he didn’t bother hiding his anger in front of his friend. He was fed up with her stupidity and she had to know it.

Ashley rolled her eyes immediately reverting to her usual attitude.

“Does mom know where you were last night?” he asked knowing the obvious answer.

“What do you think?” Ashley retorted.

“So where does she think you were?”

“With my friend Jared…I told her I was staying at his house.” She wished he would just let her go to her room and let Denise handle things but she knew it was wishful thinking.

“And where exactly did you end up staying?”

“I told you I don’t feel like talking about this right now Alex.”

“Well too bad Ashley.” He yelled fighting the urge to smack the attitude right out of her. “Where were you last night?”

“I was at Club X…obviously you know that.” she saw the look on his face.

“The fact alone that they would let a 15 year old in should tell you that it’s not the best place to be Ashley. I’m sure you don’t know half the crap that goes on in there.”

“I’m not a baby Alex. I know what goes on.”

“Yet you still went there. That scares me even more.” He sighed. “Should I even ask what you were thinking?”

She didn’t answer.

“Ash, look. I know you think you’re not a little kid but you’re still naïve. How’d you even get in there in the first place?”

“I was on a date with this guy Adam…he goes there a lot I guess.”

“You went there with Adam?” she immediately regretted her statement but nodded any way. “I thought maybe you just met him there but you actually were out with that guy. How did you meet him?”

“Why does that matter?” she rolled her eyes at his constant questioning.

“How did you meet him?” he asked again, his voice growing louder by the minute.

“Do we really have to talk about this? Like I said it doesn’t matter anymore.” She was beginning to get aggravated with him.

“Obviously you don’t want me to know for a reason.”

“Aaron had some people over a few weeks ago and I met him there. I was having a bad day and we just started talking and I don’t know, he just seemed like a really nice guy.” Ashley tried not to let her sadness show through, thinking back to that night and how different things would have been if she had just listened to Angel.

“Ashley are you serious? What the hell do you see in that guy? For one he is in his 20’s. What the hell was he doing going out with a 15 year old?” he said angrily.

“Maybe I liked him cuz’ he’s the only one who doesn’t treat me like I’m 5.” She retorted.

“Ashley, that guy is scum. Do you even know half the shit he’s into?”

“I do now.” She mumbled.

“What happened last night?” AJ asked. He could tell by the look on her face it wasn’t good.

“Alex, it’s no big deal. It’s done and over with now ok. Let’s just forget about it and I’ll deal with things when mom gets home.” She tried to fight back the tears reliving the night’s events. AJ took notice and became worried.

“Ash did he do something to you? I’ll fricken kill him if he touched you.” His anger was now fading into concern, knowing that Adam was not the kind of guy to get involved with.

“No. It’s nothing.” She quickly lied, hoping he would believe her. “He’s just not who I thought he was, ok? Can we drop it, please?”

“No Ashley we can’t. You’re obviously upset about something and you know the therapists always say bottling things up isn’t good.”

“Screw therapy, Alex. I haven’t gone in like almost three years and therapy has nothing to do with this.” She hated when he brought up her therapist.

“Can you please just tell me what happened? I hate that you keep stuff from me. You used to tell me everything.” She could hear he was upset.

“Nothing happened!” she yelled and got up from the couch, finally having enough of him. Each time he asked her she just kept flashing back to Adam’s assault on her. She quickly wiped the tears from her eyes and stormed off to her room, slamming the door.

“I don’t know what you think but someone is hiding something.” AJ plopped back down on the couch rubbing his temples from stress. He knew Denise was going to be hurt and upset to find out that Ashley had lied to her again, but he knew there was more to the story that Ashley wasn’t telling.

“I’d rather stay neutral on this one. All I know is Adam was pretty set on the idea that she wanted him.” Damien knew AJ would be mad if he knew everything that Adam said last night, and knowing him he got what he was after. “She was upset about something though…you just have to find out what happened after they left the club.”

AJ took a deep breath letting it out slowly as he heard the front door open. He knew everything was about to hit the fan and he felt bad that he had brought Damien into the middle of it.

“Alex!” Denise said excitedly as she saw her son sitting in the living room. “I wasn’t expecting you, have you been here long?”

“Just about an hour.” He smiled and hugged his mother. “This is my friend Damien, we just stopped by to see Ashley.”

“Oh?” Denise looked at him questionably, knowing it had been a while since they had spoken. “Is she home yet?”

“Yea.” AJ’s eyes darted away from her and she picked up on his apprehension immediately.

“What do you know that I don’t?” Denise asked studying her son’s face.

“You might want to ask Ashley where she was last night.” AJ said trying to break everything to her slowly.

“What are you talking about?”

“See Damien was out at a club last night and met a girl who was with an old friend of ours. He didn’t know who she was until he stopped by the house earlier today and happened to see a picture of me and Ashley.” He began but Denise had already put two and two together.

“Ashley Nicole, you get out here right this instant!” Denise yelled.

A moment later Ashley emerged from her room. Her tear streaked face and puffy eyes were a good indication that she had been crying since she came home. She quickly wiped her eyes as she approached everyone again.

“What do you have to say for yourself young lady?” Denise crossed her arms, staring at her in anger. Ashley didn’t answer, she just stared down at the floor, biting her lip nervously. “After I put so much faith in you, you have the nerve to go behind my back and do something as stupid as this?”

“I’m sorry…” she said quietly.

“You should be sorry.” Denise shook her head. “I want details…where were you last night?”

Ashley took a deep breath before she began. “I was just going out on a date with this guy Adam and I was going to go back to Jared’s house, but then he asked if I wanted to go to a party with him and not to worry because he could get it me. I hadn’t been anywhere in a while so I said ok and he took me to a club.” She looked up at Denise whose eyes shone a mixture of anger and disappointment.

“Why did you lie to me in the first place about the date? It’s not like I don’t let you go out.”

“Because I knew you wouldn’t let me go out with this guy.”

“He’s 22.” AJ interjected.

“If you knew that I would say no to that why would you do it then? Don’t you think that me saying no would be for a reason? Ashley did you ever stop to ask yourself what a 22 year old man would want with a 15 year old girl?”

Ashley just shrugged knowing it better not to answer and dig her self a bigger ditch.

“Ashley you need to seriously start putting that brain of yours to use because for someone so smart you have been acting very stupid.” Denise said bluntly. “Would you be doing this if your mother were here?”

Ashley shook her head and Denise sighed.

“So what makes me so different? Do you think it doesn’t hurt me when you lie to me or when you go behind my back and do things? I’m trying to look out for you and do the best that I can but you sure make it difficult to want to keep on trying.”

Ashley wiped the tears that were falling from her eyes. Was everyone just giving up on her now?

“I can’t even talk to you right now.” Denise shook her head in anger “Go to your room and I’ll decide what to do with you later.”

“I really am sorry.” Ashley said softly, her eyes watering over once more.

“I am too.” Denise sighed as Ashley walked off.

Denise took a seat on the couch, AJ following. After a moment of silence she broke down into tears. AJ pulled her into a tight but comforting hug.

“Alex I don’t know what to do with her anymore. Nothing I try works. I can’t keep her locked up behind bars, but I can’t trust her to do anything on her own. Every time I give her the benefit of the doubt she goes behind my back and does something stupid.” Denise tried hard to fight back the tears. “I feel like I’m letting her mother down.”

“Mom, you’re doing everything you can to keep her on the right track. You can’t blame yourself for wanting to believe she’s a good kid.”

“But that’s just it Alex, she is a good kid. She’s a straight A student, she works hard at the academy and she usually isn’t going out running crazy like this. She just doesn’t know how to make good decisions.” Denise tried to calm her nerves, taking a deep breath. “Maybe moving out here was a bad idea.”

“Mom she was doing stupid stuff like this back at home too. You can’t blame yourself for her stupidity. She’s old enough now to know what isn’t a good decision. Obviously she knows the difference if she’s choosing to lie to you, she just doesn’t know how to say no to the bad ones.”

“I just wish I could get through to her and make her see that she’s better then all of this. I can ground her all I want, but if she doesn’t learn anything in the process what’s the point?”

“All you can keep doing is trying and hope and pray that she wakes up and realizes what she’s doing to herself and to you.” AJ wiped the tears from his mother’s eyes. He hated to see her this upset. “Like you said she’s a smart girl who is choosing to act stupid.”

“I just don’t know how much more of this I can take.”

“You’re strong mom, you can help her and I’ll be there for you when you need me.”

“I need to go lay down, this whole mess is giving me a migrane. Would you mind staying here a while? Just keep and eye on her please.”

“No problem mom, take as long as you need.” He kissed her forehead as she got up and made her way to her room.

AJ turned back to his friend. “I know it’s asking a lot, but I need you to find out what happened after they left the club last night. Something is not right and I need to know.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley lay in her bed unable to sleep. She had so much running through her mind. The past two days had brought her to hell and back and she was certain that things wouldn’t get better. Angel still refused to talk to her and Jared was still upset that she lied to him.

She knew that she had let down Denise and lost all trust that she had built up with her. She didn’t know what made her be so stupid but she was regretting it big time. In a matter of two days she had hurt everyone who was important to her and she knew mending those relationships would be a challenge.

Finally giving up on sleep she got up and made her way to her window seat, grabbing her guitar on the way. Music was the only thing that hadn’t let her down and the only friend she had to turn to. She began strumming at the guitar letting herself become lost in the melody. After a while she began singing along, the words just coming to her flawlessly.

“When you're fifteen and somebody tells you they love you, you're gonna believe them. When you're fifteen and the first kiss makes you head spin 'round. But in this life there are things greater then dating a guy who seems like a dream. How could I know it at fifteen?

When all you wanted was to be wanted. Wish you could go back and tell yourself what you know now…

Yesterday I thought Prince Charming had come my way, but then I realized he had other plans in mind and I gave everything good I had left to a boy who lost his mind. Now all I can do is cry.

'Cause when you're fifteen and somebody tells you they love you, you're gonna believe them. And when you're fifteen, don't forget to look before you fall…I know time can heal most anything, and I just might learn who I’m supposed to be…
I don’t know who I’m supposed to be…At fifteen”


She placed her guitar down and wiped the tears from her eyes. Pulling her knees to her chest she stared out the window wishing she could just rewind time and start all over again.
End Notes:
Song was Taylor Swift's Fifteen but I changed some words around to make it fit the story better
Chapter 57 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
thanks to everyone who has left feed back so far. I'm trying to get as much writing done as I can but I've had a lot of work due lately so it's been slowing me up. Thanks for sticking with me!
Two weeks had passes since that night with Adam and Ashley still hadn’t told anyone what really happened. Denise had been monitoring her every move since then, making sure to drop her off and pick her up from her summer program classes so she couldn’t get into any trouble on the way. Ashley hated being watched like a hawk. She wasn’t allowed to talk to or see any of her friends and at the moment she was happy about that. Her and Angel hadn’t settled their differences about her lying about the date and Jared was constantly questioning her about everything that happened when he tried to talk to her.

As much as Denise hated to keep under such close surveillance she just couldn’t trust her anymore.

“Ashley, come eat lunch.” Denise called out to her.

“I’m not hungry.” Ashley grumbled, making her way into the kitchen.

“You have to eat something. You skipped dinner last night and you slept through breakfast. It’s not healthy to skip meals like that, you can get sick.”

Ashley rolled her eyes and took a bite of the sandwich that Denise had made.

“There, I ate something.”

“I meant the whole thing.” Denise looked at her sternly.

“I’m not hungry, why should I be forced to eat?” she rolled her eyes taking one more bite. Her stomach growled, but the taste of food was making her nauseous.

“Ashley you need to eat.” Denise sat down at the table crossing her arms sternly. “I’m going to sit here with you until you finish your lunch.”

“I’m not a little baby, I can eat without supervision.” Ashley said angrily.

“Watch your tone.” Denise warned her.

“Or what? You’ll ground me some more?” she rolled her eyes.

“I am sick and tired of this little attitude of yours. Finish your lunch and go to your room.”

Ashley huffed in frustration and took two more bites of her sand which before standing up. “I ate enough.” With out giving Denise a chance to respond she turned on her heels and walked back to her room slamming the door.

Denise sighed as Ashley stormed off towards her room. She didn’t know what to do anymore. Ashley had barely eaten anything in days and she could hear her up at night crying. As much as she tried to talk to her Ashley wouldn’t open up. She was worried that she was loosing too much weight and she kept herself hidden underneath baggy sweats. She needed someone to talk to her, someone who could get her to open up because she obviously was getting nowhere. She picked up the phone and browsed through the address book finding the number she was looking for.

She rubbed her temples, her headache from frustration growing stronger as she listened to the phone ring.

“Hello?” Angel said picking up the phone.

“Hello Angel, this is Denise.”

“Oh hi…” Angel said confused as to why she was calling her.

“I know you probably weren’t expecting a call from me, but I need a favor.”

“Sure, anything for you.” Angel said cheerily.

“I know Ashley’s grounded, but I think talking to someone might help her to get out of this depression she’s in.” Denise sighed. “I’m just worried about her and it would mean a lot if you could help me out. I know she’ll open up to you.”

“Of course, I’ll try. I just don’t know how much help I’ll be. We really haven’t been on the best of terms recently. I don’t know how much she’ll want to talk to me.” Angel confided.

“It won’t hurt to try. I can see that she needs someone to talk to.”

“I can come tomorrow afternoon, if that’s ok.”

“Perfect. Thank you so much.” Denise said before hanging up the phone.

Denise sighed hoping that talking to Angel might brighten Ashley’s spirits and get her back

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Angel smiled as Denise opened the front door the following afternoon.

“Angel, it’s so good to see you.” Denise greeted her with a hug, letting her in.

“It’s been too long.” Angel smiled back and followed Denise into the living room.

“I really appreciate you coming here to talk to her. She won’t open up to me about what’s really wrong. She hasn’t been eating or sleeping much and she refuses to talk to anyone.”

Angel could hear the sadness in Denise’s voice and she just hoped that she could get through to her friend.

“I have to run out and do some grocery shopping, Ashley is in her room. I’ll be back in about an hour.” Denise informed before heading back towards the door. “Thank you again for helping me out.”

“It’s no problem.” Angel smiled and waved as Denise left. Taking a deep breath she made her way towards Ashley’s room.

Angel knocked on the bedroom door and peaked her head into the room. She saw Ashley lying on her bed, staring at the wall. Although she was still mad at her she was missing her best friend and glad that Denise had asked her to come talk to her.

“Ash?” she asked walking into the room and towards the bed.

“What are you doing here?” Ashley turned over, surprised to see Angel.

“Your mom called, she’s worried about you. What’s going on?” she asked taking a seat on the bed as Ashley sat up.

“Nothing.” Ashley groaned. “I told her I was fine. God forbid I’m not hungry a few times she jumps to conclusions.”

“It’s not just that. She said you just lock yourself in here all day you’re always crying and you won’t talk to anyone.”

“I’m grounded, what else am I supposed to do?” she rolled her eyes. “I’m fine, honest.”

Angel studied her face and could tell there was more to it then she was letting on.

“Fine.” Angel said dropping it for now. “That’s not all I came here for. I know that we’ve been kind of rocky recently, but I miss you. I want to put all this arguing behind us and get beck to being best friends.”

“What’s the point?” Ashley said bluntly, catching Angel off guard. “I’m grounded for the rest of life anyway. Might as well get used to not seeing me around.”

“Ash…what’s up with you?” Angel looked at her concerned. This was not her usual upbeat personality.

“Nothing!” Ashley yelled, now becoming aggravated with her questioning. “Why won’t anyone believe me? I’m fine!”

“I know you too well to know when something isn’t right. Why won’t you just tell me?”

“Everything is fucking peachy. Just go back to living your little perfect life and just forget about everything, ok?”

“Look, I know you’re mad at me for not accepting you going out with Adam, but if that’s what it will take for us to be friends again then I’ll deal with it.” Angel sighed, trying to get through to her.

“Forget about Adam.” Ashley mumbled pulling her knees up to her chest.

“Ash, you’re really worrying me. Please tell me what’s going on.” Angel pleaded.

Ashley took a moment trying to fight back tears that were threatening to fall. She wanted to tell Angel what was going on, she just didn’t know how.

“I just wish I would have listened to you, that’s all.” Ashley wiped her eyes quick as tears built up.

“What happened on your date?” Angel raised a brow worry becoming apparent on her face.

“Everything was great at first. We went to dinner then spent some time at his house. He brought me to a club and had to do some work there so he left me with these two girls who were kind of bitchy but the club was ok so I didn’t care. We kept doing shots and were dancing for a little.” She stopped taking a deep breath trying to control her emotions.

“Then?” Angel could tell by the look on her face that the rest of the story went downhill.

“Then we took a cab back to his house because we were both really drunk. We started to hook up.”

“Please tell me you didn’t have sex with him.”

Ashley darted her eyes away from Angel. Her response was enough, Angel sighed deeply taking Ashley’s hand into hers, trying to get her to look at her.

“Ash…”

“I didn’t want to.” She finally looked up at her, letting the tears flow freely.
“What do you mean you didn’t want to?”

“I said no, I told him I didn’t want to, that things were moving to fast, but he said that he could see how bad I wanted him.”

“Ash…”Angel pulled her into a hug struggling to find the right words. “You have to tell someone. What he did was wrong…it was rape.”

“No!” she pulled from the hug and looked Angel in the eyes. “You can’t tell anyone Angel. You have to promise me.” She grabbed her hand, her tear filled eyes pleading with her best friend to keep her secret.

Angel took a deep breath and just nodded in agreement.
End Notes:
I know you're all waiting for shit 2 hit the fan with Adam and AJ and don't worry I won't disappoint just give it some time (not too much i wont drag it out)
Chapter 58 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
ok so I know this chapter might seem out of context as to what was just going on but I promise everything will fall into place. I'm hoping to have the next chapter done by Thursday and then another by Sunday and then everything will be back on track and you'll get where this chapter fits in but I promise it's not random.
Ashley groaned as her alarm clock buzzed through the room. She slammed her hand down on the snooze button and rolled over not anticipating her first day of school. Since her chat with Angel she tried to act as normal as possible around Denise, whatever she was doing seemed to be working because she had layed off her back for the most part. Before she could even drift back off to sleep Denise came knocking on her door, switching on her lights.

“First day of school, you’ll miss the bus if you don’t get up now.” Denise said switching open the blinds.

“Five more minutes.” Ashley grumbled, the pillow covering her head muffling her voice.

“Time to get up.” Denise said again pulling back the covers.

Ashley groaned and sat up in bed stretching as she yawned. “I still don’t understand why I just can’t ride with Jared and Tina, the bus is so annoying.”

“Being driven to school is a privilege, you lost those a few weeks ago. Maybe eventually you can win them back, but for now you’re taking the bus.” Denise said sternly.

“Fine.” Ashley sighed in a huff.

“Ashley, I’m not trying to be mean but you broke my trust and now you have to deal with the consequences.” Denise tried to explain to her for what seemed like millionth time in only a few weeks.

“I said fine.” Ashley groaned and made her way into her bathroom.

Denise sighed deeply as she left the room. She hated having to be this strict, but she knew it was necessary.

Ashley quickly got ready for school, not caring much about her appearance. She hadn’t cared much about anything in the past few weeks. Her encounter with Adam had really shaken her up and made her rethink who she was becoming. She knew she had to make changes in her life, but she wanted to make them on her own. She knew talking to anyone too much about what had happened wouldn’t end well. Everyone was livid enough at the fact that he would even date her, if they found out what really happened after they left the club she wouldn’t be able to forget about it like she was trying to do.

After eating a quick breakfast, at Denise’s request, she finally made her way to the bus stop. She groaned as she looked around at the others at the bus stop. Most were freshman or transfers as she hadn’t seen them before. She didn’t want to be around these people, she wasn’t much in a talking or socializing mood. She smirked as she heard an ever-familiar honk coming from across the street. Looking up she saw Jared’s blue van parked across the street. The windows rolled down as he yelled out to her.

“Girl get your ass in this car, you know there’s no way in hell I would let you ride the cheese bus to school.”

Ashley shook her head laughing as she crossed the street and hoped in the back. “Thank you for saving me from hell on wheels. I can’t believe my mom wants me to ride that thing.”

“In all honesty she told me I could pick you up, she just wanted you to sweat it out thinking you had to take the bus. You know after what happened I would never disobey your mom again. She nearly killed me.” Jared teased.

“She’s not mad at you, I explained the whole thing and how you had no clue what was going on.” Ashley reassured him. “Question is are you still mad at me?”

Since she was grounded Jared and Ashley hadn’t had much time to talk and work out their differences but she knew things would blow over eventually.

“As long as you never lie to me again we’re beyond cool.”

“Deal.” She smiled glad to have her friends back. “So Tina how was your summer in New York? I bet you had an amazing time!”

“You bet, but apparently I missed a lot while I was gone.” She raised a brow.

“I’ll fill you in at lunch, promise.” Ashley smiled and sat back as they made their way to school.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Third period had just begun and Ashley was already dreading the rest of the day. She sighed, fidgeting with her pen as her teacher spoke monotonously at the front of the room. A noise from the loud speaker brought a much-welcomed interruption to their learning.

“The following students are to report to the auditorium for the rest of third period…”the secretary began. “James Robinson, Meghan Adams, Elaine Sheppard, Ashley McLean, Denis Johnson, Stephanie Fredericks, Tiffany Jenkins, Max Russo, Justin Gates and Kyle Sullivan.”

Ashley wondered why she would be called down with that group but was happy to get away from her class.

She made her way out of her class and upstairs to the auditorium. Just as she was about to reach the door she ran into the other girls who had been called down. It was no secret that they didn’t like her and they had no problem showing it. Glaring as they passed by they walked through the auditorium door neglecting to hold the door open for Ashley. She rolled her eyes at their immaturity and pulled the door open making her way inside.

“Great that’s everyone.” The head of the academy’s summer program, Deanna, greeted them. “Please take a seat upfront, we don’t have much time.”

Ashley sighed taking a seat in the front row a few seats away from everyone else.

“You may all be wondering what you’re doing here or you just might not care because you got out of class.” Deanna teased. “But I do have good reason for pulling you away. We have some very exciting news.”

Erik stood up next to her pulling what seemed to look like a stack of scripts from his bag.

“You all were the cream of the crop from our summer program but due to lack of time we didn’t get to showcase you all. As you know we frequently get permission to put on productions of Broadway shows and we have just received permission to do Beauty and the Beast.” Deanna informed. The small crowd erupted into an excited chatter as Deanna hushed them and continued. “We have already cast everyone based on your performances this summer and we are expecting you to have your lines down when academy starts up again in two weeks.”

Erik began passing out the scripts to everyone and then retrieved envelopes from his bag.

“On your way out you will each get an envelope containing your part. I do not want you to open it in this room, if you do I will take it right back and someone else will get your part. Know that our decisions were made by reviewing all shows each of you have appeared in this past year and our decisions are final.” She reinforced before handing out the envelopes.”

“Can we open them outside?” Meghan asked in anticipation to see what part she had received, confident she would get the lead.

“I’d prefer if you waited until after school, but I know that might be a little tough. I know you all are going to want to talk about your roles but we are trying to keep this as undercover as possible until the main auditions are held. So this shouldn’t leave the ten of you.”

“Forth period will begin soon. You are free to leave, but please place your scripts in your locker before heading to your next class.”

Everyone quickly made their way out of the auditorium and into the downstairs hallway. The girls wasted no time opening their envelopes as Ashley continued onto her locker ignoring them.

“Mrs. Potts?” Meghan exclaimed angrily. “I’m the fricken tea pot?”

The boys couldn’t help but take a second to laugh at her expression before she smacked them angrily.

“What part did you guys get?” Meghan asked looking at the other girls.

They all opened their enveloped pulling out the card in the inside.

“Babette? Who’s that?” Stephanie asked.

“I got Chip….guess I’m a fricken teapot too…and a boy at that.” Elaine said angrily.

“Tiffany please tell me you got Belle, or I might just have to scream.” Meghan said pulling the card out of her hand and reading in. “That little bitch!

Tiffany took the card back and read the name aloud. “Madame de la Grande Bouche…”

“It’s my senior year and she’s ruining everything!” by now Meghan was pacing the hallway fumes nearly coming from her ears.

“I told you she was trouble.” Elaine pitched in.

“We need to take her down now, that’s it I don’t want to wait anymore.”

The boys looked on in confusion not knowing what the big deal was. None of them understood why the girls hated Ashley so much.

“We need a plan now…by tomorrow she’ll wish she never stole my part in the first place.” Meghan crossed her arms and stared down the hallway where she could see Ashley by her locker.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley grinned as she walked over to Jared’s locker just before lunch. She still hadn’t opened her envelope, wanting to do it with her friends. She knew it was a secret but she could trust Jared and Tina to keep it.

“What are you so happy about?” Jared asked as Tina joined them.

“This.” She held up the envelope, as they looked at her in question. “Ok you have to keep this a secret but we’re going to be doing Beauty and the Beast!”

“Seriously?” Jared asked excitedly.

“I haven’t opened it yet but whatever my role is, it’s in this envelope. No auditions this time, we were hand picked.” She bit her lip nervously as she handed Jared the paper. “You open it.”

“You sure?” Jared asked opening it as he did. He pulled out the paper and a big grin spread across his face. Tina looked over his shoulder and grinned as he turned the paper around to show her.

Ashley’s eyes grew wide as she saw the name on the paper. She grinned in excitement trying to contain a squeal as she jumped to hug him. She knew she couldn’t act too excited in the middle of the hallway.

“This is so awesome!” Tina said hugging her.

“I can’t believe it!” Ashley couldn’t keep the smile off her face as the threesome made their way to lunch.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Later that night Ashley was home highlighting her lines in her script when her phone rang. Not recognizing the caller ID she decided not to pick it up. After a few moments the ringer went off letting her know she had a voice mail. Deciding to check it later she tossed her phone to the side and went back to work highlighting. No more then a few moments later her phone rang again, this time from a different number then before. She sighed and picked it up.

“Hello?” she said timidly.

“Slut.” Came an unrecognizable voice from the other side.

“Excuse me?”

“Whore.” They yelled once more before hanging up.

Ashley rolled her eyes at someone’s stupid attempt at a prank call as her phone rang again. The caller ID once again showing a new number.
“Hello?” she answered the phone slightly more aggressive then she had before.

“Is this Ashley?” a guys voice came from the other side.

“Who is this?”

“I heard you were the girl to call if I wanted to have some fun.”

“Who the fuck is this?” she asked angrily.

“What would it take for me to get into those tight jeans of yours?” the voice asked again.

“Fuck off.” Ashley yelled and hung up the phone. She noticed that she now had two voice mails. She took a deep breath before dialing her voicemail.

“Hey baby, you don’t know me but believe me you’ll wanna. How’s about you call me back and we talk about how we can have ourselves a good time?” she deleted the message before it could finish going on to the next.

“Slut…why do you even bother getting off your knees? Just go back to doing what you do best. WHORE!” the girls voice yelled before hanging up.

“What the hell is this shit?” Ashley groaned closing her phone. She was just about to turn it off when it began ringing again.

“What?” Ashley yelled not even bothering to check the caller ID this time.

“Umm I was just calling to talk to you, but if you’re in a bad mood I can call back.” Jared said.

“Oh sorry babe.” Ashley sighed. “I’ve just been getting a lot of prank calls for some reason.”

“That’s why I was calling, I might be able to tell you why.” He said timidly. “I’m on my way over, can I come in or do I have to come to the window?”

“Just come to my window…what’s going on?” she asked worried.

“Just wait until I get there ok. Don’t pick up the phone anymore.”

Ashley hung up the phone and shut it off not wanting to deal with anymore phone calls. She wondered what Jared knew that she didn’t. About five minutes later Jared was climbing through her window a worried look on his face.

“Hey.” He hugged her. “How many calls did you get?”
“Like four, then I shut my phone off…what’s going on? Who the hell keeps calling me?”

“My guess would be anyone who was down at Sunny’s tonight.”

“What are you talking about?” Ashley furrowed her brow in confusion.

“Please don’t shoot the messenger, but I found these all over the guys bathroom there tonight.” He pulled a folded piece of paper out of his back pocket and handed it to her.

Ashley quickly unfolded it and stared down at the flyer in her hands not knowing whether to cry or scream. On the flyer was a picture of a naked girl spread out on the floor, her hands touching herself. It wasn’t the body that shocked her, it was the face; someone had put her face onto the body with the message ‘For a good time call…’ complete with her cell phone number.

“That’s not me! I mean that’s my face but the body sure as hell ain’t mine.” Ashley stared at the flyer in her hands.

“Oh believe me, I know.” Jared shook his head. I took down all the ones I could find, but I don’t know where else they’re up.”

“Who would do something like this?” she asked on the verge of tears. “Why do these people hate me so much?”

Jared pulled Ashley into a hug as she let the tears flow.

“I’m sorry babe, we’ll figure out who did this ok?” he rubbed her back and took the paper from her hands crumbling it up and throwing it away. “Just don’t answer your phone for now ok?”

Ashley pulled away from him and wiped her eyes. She didn’t know how to deal with this. She never thought that anyone would stoop so low just because they didn’t like her. This prank was beyond cruel and she had every intention on finding out who was responsible for this.
End Notes:
please review and thanks to everyone who has been reviewing I appreciate it!
Chapter 59 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
yay i got it done! next one should be done Sunday/Monday :) enjoy! and thanks to everyone who reviewed the last one I appreciate it!
Ashley took a deep breath before walking through the front doors of the school the next day. It was taking all the will power she had not to break down and let the other people get the best of her.

“You can do this.” Tina said linking her arm with Ashley’s. Jared opened the door and led the two girls down the hallway. As much as she wanted to believe that everyone’s glances and snickers weren’t directed towards her she knew she would be lying to herself. A few guys whistled as she walked by but Jared immediately shot them a death glare and they stopped.

“Do you want us to go to your locker with you?” Tina asked as they reached their usual separation point.

“I’ll be fine.” Ashley took a deep breath. “You can’t hold my hand all day.”

“Well we can at least walk with you to class.” Jared offered. “We’ll meet at your locker after we get our stuff together.”

“Thanks.” Ashley smiled as they parted. She walked down the stairs and entered the basement hallway where her locker was located. As she reached the locker she could see it covered in the flyers Jared had found the night before. She could hear giggles and whispers coming from everyone around her as she tried her best to hold back her tears. She tore them off angrily and opened her locker quickly, just trying to get away from everyone. She knew it was a mistake to come to school today but she didn’t even know how to begin trying to explain to Denise what was going on. As she opened her locker there was another flyer taped to the inside with the word ‘SLUT’ written across it.

She stared at the picture once more trying to erase it from her memory. She tore it off crumpling it in her hand. Just as she was about to throw it away she spotted the culprits approaching her. Although she had no proof as to who was behind it, she knew they were the only ones who were vindictive enough to do this.

“You did this, didn’t you?” Ashley said angrily holding up the half crumbled flyer in her hand.

“Doesn’t it feel great to have this secret of yours out in the open?” Meghan smirked at her. “I guess we were wrong about you all along…you’re brother wasn’t paying for you to be here you did it all on your own just like you said.”

“Sleeping your way to the top…how classy.” Elaine added in as Stephanie laughed.

Ashley held back the urge to smack her in the face with all she had in her. She could feel the tears building in her eyes but didn’t want these girls to get the best of her, that’s what they wanted was to watch her fall.

“Oh is the poor baby gonna cry?” Stephanie faked sympathy as she rolled her eyes. “Might as well let people know the real you. This is all anyone will ever want from you anyway, haven’t you figured that out?”

“Why would you do this to me?” Ashley finally asked. “I never did anything to you.”

“You took the one thing that I had at this school and now because of you it’s my senior year and I’m playing second best to a cheap little slut.” Meghan said angrily. “Guess I’m not just talented when it comes to singing though, huh?” she asked holding up one of the flyers.

“So you’re admitting that you did this?”

“With something as good and genius as this I’d be stupid not to gloat.” Meghan laughed.

“You fucking bitch!” With every ounce of strength Ashley had in her she launched herself at Meghan, slamming her into the wall of lockers with a loud thud. Meghan yelled out in pain as she made contact. She fought back grabbing Ashley’s hair and trying to push back against her as they screamed obscenities at one another. Everyone looked on in shock not knowing whether to let them fight or hold them back. As they threw each other onto the ground Ashley took the chance to get in a few good punches, lading one right at Meghan’s nose causing her to start bleeding.

Finally hearing all the commotion teachers fled to the hallway to pull the two girls from each other and calm down the rowdy on-looking crowd. Jared walked into the hallway with Tina noticing the big crowd gathered near the end of the hall where Ashley’s locker was.

“What’s going on?” He asked stopping a student who was passing by.

“Two chicks are going at it…they were just talking and then bam the one went crazy…”

“Crap.” Tina said running towards the crowd just in time to see Mr. Robertson pulling Ashley off a bleeding Meghan. She looked up at them with tears of anger in her eyes as they led the two girls away and towards the dean’s office.

“I told you we should have gone with her.” Jared sighed. “She’s going to be killed.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley sat outside the dean’s office tapping her foot nervously as she held an icepack up to her cheek to try and reduce the swelling from the one punch Meghan got in. She had already been reprimanded by the dean and suspended for the rest of the week with probation for the whole month, meaning one more slip up and she could be expelled. She looked up as she heard Denise entering the room. She knew she was in deep trouble for this one, but Meghan got what she deserved.

Denise had a look of anger and disappointment written all over he face. She didn’t have to say a word, Ashley stood and followed her to the front desk where Denise signed her out. Jared and Tina had already brought her books and bag to the office so she was ready to go home. They walked to the car in silence and continued the drive home the same way. Once they arrived back at the house Ashley knew all hell would break loose. She immediately made her way to the living room and took a seat on the couch just waiting for Denise to lay into her.

“I honestly don’t even know what to say to you right now.” Denise shook her head looking at her. “Fighting at school? What were you thinking?”

Ashley just shrugged knowing there was no logical explanation for it, at least not one that Denise would understand.

“These girls just hate me, they’ve had it out for me ever since Meghan got taken out of the play at the end of last year.” Ashley tried to explain.

“Don’t over exaggerate, I’m sure they don’t hate you. I want to know exactly what happened.”

“They started it, they were saying all this mean stuff to me…” Denise cut it off.

“The dean talked to everyone who was around and they all said you started it.”

“Well technically but…”

“There’s no buts, you threw the first punch therefore you’re responsible for starting the fight.”

“I couldn’t just let her stand there and talk about me like that!” She wiped some tears from her face. “Just…never mind you wouldn’t understand.”

“Ashley there is no excuse or sensible explanation that would justify you getting into a fight. I know girls can be mean, but you’re above that.” Denise sighed. “You need to learn to ignore them. You have to think about what you do before you do it…you’re lucky you only got suspended a few days. You could have been kicked out of the academy or even worse expelled.”

“I tried really hard to ignore them mom, I really did. It’s just…”

“What were they saying that was so bad?” Denise finally asked.

“It’s more what they did.” Ashley mumbled.

“Ashley you need to tell me what’s going on. If there is more to this story then what is being told I need to know.” Denise studied her face, trying to read her emotions but she was a blank canvas. It saddened her to see what was becoming of her once vibrant and energetic daughter. She seemed so worn out and distressed, it was beginning to really worry her.

“It’s nothing. You’re right I should have just ignored them, I was wrong and I’m sorry. It won’t happen again.” Ashley sighed. “Can I just go to my room now?”

Denise nodded and watched Ashley as she walked out of the room.

Ashley walked into her room closing the door before she let the tears fall. She was too embarrassed to tell Denise the real reason behind the fight and she couldn’t get what Stephanie had said to her out of her head. ‘This is all anyone will ever want from you anyway, haven’t you figured that out?’ Maybe she was right. First Derek then Steven and Adam. Maybe it was all she was good for.

She needed to get away and have some time to just think about how to deal with the situation. She knew it wasn’t the best move but she had no one else to turn to. She grabbed her cell phone and searched through the list until she found who she was looking for.

“Are you busy?” she said as she heard someone pick up on the other end of the line. “I need to get out of this house…can you come get me?”
End Notes:
So who do you think she called???
Chapter 60 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
a lot of revelations in this chapter and a lot more to come in the next one. More soon hopefully!
Denise knocked on Ashley’s door a few hours later in attempts to talk to her again about what really happened. She knew Ashley well enough to know she had a very high threshold of tolerance when it came to controlling her emotions. There had to be more to the story then either girl was telling. She waited a moment and when there was no response she opened the door figuring Ashley was napping or in the bathroom. She looked around the baron room as she entered; Ashley was nowhere to be found. She quickly checked the bathroom and again came up empty handed. Nervousness and anger setting in she quickly checked the rest of the rooms in the small condo before returning to her bedroom.

She took a deep breath as she tried to maintain her composure before grabbing the phone off the nightstand and calling Jared.

“Ash…are you ok? What happened today?” he asked immediately picking up the phone.

“Jared, it’s Denise.” She sighed knowing the answer to the question she was going to ask immediately. “I’m guessing you haven’t heard from or seen Ashley since school this morning?”

“No, I’m just getting home from school…what’s going on?”

“I wish I knew. I was coming in here to try and talk to Ashley and she’s gone. I was hoping she was with you. She wouldn’t say much about the fight today, you wouldn’t happen to know anything would you?” she asked hopefully.

“There’s way more to what went on today then just a fight. I’ll try and call Ashley but if you don’t mind I’d like to stop by and give you the real story.”

“I would appreciate it greatly.” Denise said before hanging up with him.

No more then 20 minutes later Jared was at the door. Denise let him in and they sat in the kitchen as he explained what has been going on with the girls at school for the past few months and even everything that had happened to her at the beginning of last year with Derek spreading rumors about her. Denise was shocked that Ashley had hid all of this from her.

“So not only did they spread all these rumors, but last night Ashley started getting all these phone calls and I found this posted up at one of the lounges all the kids from school hang out at.” He pulled out the flyer from his back pocket and unfolded it showing it to Denise.
Denise stared down at the flyer, speechless. She couldn’t believe someone would stoop this low to try and hurt Ashley.

“When she got to school today there was a bunch all over her locker and inside. From what I heard they were just talking one minute and Ashley flipped out on her the next, but apparently Stephanie and Elaine have been bragging all day about being involved in everything.”

“Has anyone brought this to the dean? I mean these girls can’t get away with something like this. Not only are they ruining Ashley’s reputation but handing out her phone number like this Is an invasion of privacy. These girls need to be stopped before they take this any farther.”

“I wanted to talk to Ashley about it first and see what really happened and try and convince her to talk to you.” Adam sighed. “I tried calling her but her phone is still off and her mailbox is full.”

“Thank you so much. Please just keep an eye out for Ashley, I’m going to call around and try and find her but I know she would come to you first before she comes home.” Denise said sadly. She wished she had known what was going on at school because she would have put a stop to it before it got to this level.

Jared stood and hugged her goodbye before leaving. Denise had stayed calm in front of him, but once he as out the door she broke down. She grabbed the phone and called her son hoping he could help her.



“Alex?” Denise said as he picked up the phone.

“Mom what’s wrong?” he said hearing the shakiness in her voice.

“Ashley’s gone.”

“What do you mean she’s gone?” AJ asked confused.

“She’s not here, she left…I don’t know where or when but she’s gone.” Denise was now rambling, the stress obviously getting the best of her.

“Ok mom calm down. I’ll call some of her friends out here and see if anyone has heard from her.” AJ said trying to make her relax a little.

“I shouldn’t have yelled at her, I should have tried to find out what was going on.” She sighed trying to calm her self down.

“Mom what are you talking about? What’s going on?”

“Ashley got suspended today.”

“She what?” AJ said furiously.

“She got into a fight. I yelled at her, I told her it was her fault, but it wasn’t. These girls at school are so mean to her I don’t know why she wouldn’t tell me. I need to find her before something bad happens.”

“Mom I will find her ok? You stay home just incase she calls or comes back. I’ll find her, I promise.” AJ sighed and hung up the phone.


AJ sighed running his hands through his hair as he searched for the paper that contained Angel’s cell phone number on it. When he found it he grabbed his phone and dialed the number, hoping she would pick up.

“Angel, please tell me my sister is with you.” AJ said the second she picked up the phone.”

“Umm no I haven’t heard from her in a few days…why?” Angel asked confused.

“She got suspended today for fighting and now apparently she’s run away.” AJ was furious with her for putting Denise through all of this and he couldn’t wait to find her and let her have it.

“She did what?” Angel said in shock. She had never known Ashley to be the violent type.

“I’m going to kill this girl when I find her. Mom practically had a nervous breakdown on the phone with me…I don’t know what the hell has gotten into her lately. Do you have any idea who she could be with?”

“I wish I did, she hasn’t called me or anything. I tried calling her last night but her phone was off and her voice mail was full.”

“She’s dead. I swear this girl is driving me to an early grave…when I find her…”

“Just take it easy on her AJ…she’s going through a hard time.” Angel said with a sigh wishing she could just tell him what was really going on with her friend.

“I’m done taking it easy on her. She crossed the line this time…first she goes out with that creep and now this…she needs a rude awakening and believe me I’ll give her one.” By now AJ was furious with her. The more he thought about all the things she had tried to get away with this past summer the angrier he got.

“Maybe she already got that rude awakening and you just haven’t found out about it yet.” Angel said knowing she couldn’t keep this a secret any longer. She knew it was the best thing for Ashley, even if she would hate her for it.

“What are you talking about?” AJ was confused at Angel’s obscure answers.

“Let’s just say she learned the hard way why no one wanted her to date Adam…” she struggled to find the best way to put it but gave up and just threw it out into the open. “He had sex with her….she didn’t want…”

“I’ve barely come to terms with the fact that my sister is having sex, I’m not exactly open to hearing about who she chooses to do it with.” He cut her off.

“No AJ you don’t get it…she said no.” Angel stressed again.

“That son of a bitch.” AJ said angrily feeling his blood begin to boil as he slammed the phone down.

Angel sighed as the line went dead, hoping she did the right thing.

As much as AJ wanted to find Adam and rip his head off he knew he had to find Ashley first and deal with Adam later.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley looked around the small, poorly lit back room of Club X. Although she had been there a once before she had never been downstairs. Adam took her hand and led her over to an empty couch.

“Sit. I’ll be right back with a surprise for you.” His mischievous grin worried her. It was never a good sign. She would have said something had it not been for the 3 shots of Jack Daniels she recently downed that were numbing her senses.

She watched as Adam walked further into the room and knocked on a door. It opened and he disappeared inside. He emerged a few minutes later with a small bag in his hand. From afar she thought it was weed and grinned in anticipation of a high, but as he got closer she noticed a white substance. He joined her on the couch kissing her roughly.

“This right here, baby, will take all of your problems away.” He waved the small bag in her face.

She swallowed the lump that began to form in her throat finally finding her words.

“Adam, is that coke?” she asked as he grinned setting up a line on the table in front of them. She watched as he snorted it then leaned back against the couch taking it in.

“Adam what the fuck! You know I wouldn’t touch that shit!” she yelled.

“Baby, relax. I know you had a bad day and I just wanted to make it all better.” He rubbed her thigh. “What’s the big deal? It’s just one time. You’re not gonna get hooked.”

“What’s the big deal?” she shoved his hand off her. “You know my brother was in rehab for that shit and you know I would never touch it.”

“Your brother was an alcoholic too and I just watched you down Jack like it was your job babe, so don’t play that card.” He was beginning to get frustrated and she could tell.

“That’s different!” she retorted, but knew she was lying to her self. The truth is if AJ ever found out about all of her social habits he would kill her. Especially after the year he just had. She was ashamed but she knew where to draw the line, and this was it.

“Yea baby, you keep telling your self that. What about the two joints you smoked with me on the way over, was that so different?” she scowled at him getting up from the couch.

“Fuck you. I’m leaving.” She started to walk away. Adam grabbed her wrist causing her to wince in pain. “Let go of me!”

He swung her around to face him.

“Listen bitch, I’m sick and tired of you playing these little games. If you can’t play hard ball with the big boys then you better just walk away now because believe me this ain’t the worst of it.”

She could feel the angry tears welling in her eyes but she fought them back, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of defeating her.

“I’m leaving.” She said once more pulling her wrist out of his grasp.

“Yea, we’ll see how long it takes for you to come crawling back.” He laughed as she slammed the door. As soon as she was out of sight of the club she broke down.

“What the fuck was I thinking calling him?” She mumbled to herself. Frustrated she let out a loud scream and kicked the closest thing.

“Fuck.” She winced as her foot pounded from its contact with the garbage can on the corner. She pulled out her phone noticing it was already 1 AM. She had no way home, Adam was her only ride. She looked in her wallet.

“5 bucks, that’ll get me far.” She knew she had no other choice, even though she would regret it. She hit the speed dial and waited for the answer.

“I need you to pick me up…no questions.”
End Notes:
another phone call? I think you'll like who she calls better this time...but again who do you think she calls?
Chapter 61 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry it took so long for this but i have a few hectic weeks at school right now so updates might be slow but I will be updating again later this week...this chapter is complete brother sister time so enjoy! and let me know what you think :)
She hung up the phone and walked to the diner across the street going inside to wait, it was safer then waiting out on the street. She sat down in a booth and ordered a cup of coffee in attempts to sober up before he arrived. He was there no more than 15 minutes later. She saw him walk through the door but couldn’t look up at him as he walked over and took a seat across from her.

“Should I even ask how you ended up in LA at 1 in the morning?” he finally spoke up after a few moments of uncomfortable silence. “I’ve been looking for you everywhere.”

“Alex, I said no questions.” She mumbled still not looking up at him.

“My 15 year old sister calls me at 1 in the morning and asks me to pick her up on
Sunset after I get a frantic call from mom saying you’re missing and you expect me not to ask any questions? Are you really serious?” he tried to keep his voice down but she could hear his anger.

“I didn’t run away or anything. I was going back I just needed some time to think and clear my mind.”

“Oh and Sunset Boulevard is just the place for that.” He said sarcastically and rolled his eyes. “What were you thinking…how did you even end up in LA?”

“I don’t want to talk about it right now. Can we just go back to your house or something?” she finally looked up at him.

“This conversation isn’t over by far. As soon as we go home you and I are having a long conversation.” He said getting up and dropping a few dollars on the table for the coffee.

They walked around the corner and got into AJ’s car and headed back towards his house. Ashley was glad he lived pretty far away, the more time she had to gather her thoughts the better. She knew once they got home he would lay into her and she knew she deserved it. As she stared out the window watching the cars speed by on the freeway she overheard AJ talking to Denise to let her know that he had found her and would bring her home in the morning.

“You know mom almost had a nervous breakdown when she couldn’t find you…and what’s this I hear about you getting into a fight at school?” he asked looking over at her after he hung up with his mom. He sighed as she proceeded to ignore him, letting it slide for the moment.

Ashley took a deep breath letting it out slowly as they pulled into AJ’s driveway. She slowly got out the car and made her way up the walkway to the door, waiting for him to let her in. Once inside he directed her to the living room. The two sat in silence for a few moments as AJ studied her face. He could see all the hurt and confusion in her eyes and wished he could just make all these troubles go away.

“Ash…” he started but she cut him off.

“I really don’t feel like discussing all of this right now…it’s been a long day.”

“Ashley we need to talk, whether you like it or not.” He looked at her sternly knowing he meant business. She sighed rolling her eyes and leaning back into the couch knowing it was a mistake to call him.

“Where were you all day?”

“Around…”

“Cut the bullshit and answer my question…where were you?”

“I got some dinner then I was at Club X…” she saw the look of disappointment on his face.

“Why would you go back there?” he asked.

“I had no where else to go.” She lied not wanting to tell him she had been with Adam.

“You have friends…you couldn’t have gone to one of their houses?”

“I guarantee the first people you called were Angel and Jared…” she sighed. “I said I needed time to think…I didn’t want to be found. Why would I go there knowing it’s the first place you’d look?”

“And where exactly were you planning on staying?”

“I don’t know.” She shrugged. He could tell she was lying. There was something she was hiding from him and he was determined to figure out what it was.

“How did you get out to LA?” he asked trying to think of who she could have been with all day.

“I had someone pick me up earlier.” She couldn’t look him in the eyes.

“Who?”

“Does it really matter?” She sighed wishing his questioning would stop.

“Who, Ashley?” he said more forcefully his anger more apparent.

“Do we really have to talk about this? Like I said it doesn’t matter anymore.” She was beginning to get aggravated with him.

He gave her a stern look and she sighed, answering reluctantly.

“Adam.” She mumbled afraid of what he would say.

“You can’t be serious! Please tell me your lying.” He said angrily throwing his arms up in frustration as he began pacing the room.

“I wish I was.” She mumbled.

“What would possess you to see that guy again…after what…” AJ stopped himself before he said too much. He knew she was too tense right now and if she found out he knew what happened with Adam she would close up.

“I had no one else to call ok? It’s that simple…I just needed to get out of the house and he was the only solution.”

“I want to know what happened today.” AJ said sternly. “From the time you got in the fight until I picked you up.”

“Alex it’s a long story.” She sighed.

“And we have all night…so start.”

She knew he meant business…if she had any desire to sleep at all tonight she was going to have to tell him. Taking a deep breath she began.

“There’s these girls at school and they pretty much have hated me ever since I got there…for no reason at all. They’re always bothering me and telling me how I don’t belong there and that my family pays my way into everything I want.” She looked over at him and saw he was listening intently. “When I got into the summer program this year I took the spot of one of the girls and that made them even more mad. Then yesterday we found out we’re doing a new play and I got the lead…I don’t know how they figured it out but I guess they saw it was none of them so they put it all together…”

“Continue…” AJ said when she paused for a few moments.

“Last night I was home doing some work and I started getting all these phone calls…” she stopped again and blinked back a few tears that wanted to fall. She still couldn’t get the image from the flyer out of her head no matter how hard she tried.
“What kind of phone calls?” AJ asked seeing her expression change and the hurt in her eyes become more apparent.

“Just random people…saying some really mean things.” She was too embarrassed to repeat any of it so she left it at that. “Jared called me after I got a few calls and told me to turn off my phone and that he had something to show me that would explain everything.”

She stared down at her lap not wanting to continue but she knew that he would make her.

“He came to house and had this flyer that he found at one of the places everyone from school hangs out in. He said they were posted all over the bathroom and stuff.” She quickly wiped away a few tears and continued. “They put my face on a picture of a naked girl and had my number on there saying to call me for a good time.”

“Did you tell mom?”

“No. I thought it would all blow over in a couple of days just like every other time, but when I got to school today they had covered my locker in the flyers and they even had one inside. When Meghan came up to me laughing about it and making jokes about me I tried to stay calm but then she openly admitted to doing it and I dunno…I just snapped.”

“So they’ve done stuff like this before?” he asked handing her a tissue to wipe her eyes.

“Not just her a few other people too, but nothing ever like this. I couldn’t help it I just got so angry so I hit her.” She sniffled a little as she wiped her eyes with the tissue.

“Why didn’t you tell mom? She could have talked to someone and made it stop.”

“That would just make it even worse…” she sighed wiping her eyes again. “I tried to explain to her what happened today but she wouldn’t listen to me she said I threw the first punch so it was my fault.”

“Well I think mom’s pretty aware of what’s going on now…” he shook his head and took a deep breath knowing he still had to find out more about what happened after she left. “So she didn’t believe you and you got upset…is that why you left?”

“I guess. I just couldn’t be locked up in that house anymore. I figured since I was grounded for the rest of life anyway, leaving wouldn’t hurt much.” Ashley just shrugged.

“What made you call Adam?”

“I dunno.” She took a minute trying to think back to earlier when she had picked up her phone to call him. “I guess I just figured he was the last person anyone would think to call when looking for me and he had a car. I really wasn’t thinking logically at the moment, I just wanted to leave.” She admitted.

“As much as you wanted to get out of the house I just can’t comprehend why you would call Adam of all people after all the trouble it caused last time. He isn’t the type of guy you want to be involved with.” AJ sighed.

“It was a mistake…don’t you think I know that? Why else would I have called you to come get me if I didn’t want to get away from him?” She fought hard to hold back the tears that were threatening to fall again. She hated crying and lately that’s all she seemed to be doing.

“Was this the first time you called him since you got grounded?”

Ashley just nodded yes.

“So what made you change your mind and call me?” he knew he was getting close to the answer he was looking for. He needed to make sure that Adam hadn’t hurt her again.

“I was ready to go home and he didn’t want to leave.” She lied, shifting her eyes away from his glance.

“Lets try the truth this time…what made you call me?”

“Alex it’s no big deal. It’s done and over with now, ok? Let’s just forget about it and get some sleep.” She couldn’t lie to him, he could read her too well and she knew if she told him about the drugs his strangely calm disposition would be gone in the blink of an eye.

“What happened?” he asked again. “ Did he do something to you? I’ll fricken kill him if he touched you.”

“No, it’s nothing like that. We haven’t even done anything. He’s just an asshole ok? Can we drop it please?”

“No we cant…because something is obviously upsetting you so spill it.”

“Fine. He knew I had a really bad day at school and he wanted me to relax…” she swallowed the lump in her throat before she continued. “So he bought me some coke.”
“He what?” AJ looked ready to explode.

“Look Alex. It’s no big deal. He tried to get me to use coke I flipped out on him and he called me a bitch and told me that if I couldn’t play with the big boys then leave and that’s just what I did.”

AJ took a few deep breaths trying to calm himself down. He was ready to kill Adam and that’s exactly what he planed on doing when he found him, but for right now he had to focus on Ashley.

“Although I don’t condone all of your recent activities I’m really proud you stood up to him like that.” He pulled her into a hug.

Ashley pulled away and looked at him as if he had 6 heads. She just told him that someone tried to get her to use drugs and he didn’t flip out…something was going on and now it was her turn to ask the questions.

“Ok what the hell is going on with you? I should be six feet under by now with all this I’m telling you and you’re sitting here hugging me and telling me your proud?” She raised a brow in question.

“Yelling at you doesn’t work so I’m trying a new approach.” He lied.

“You’re just as bad of a liar as I am…spill it. What the hell is going on?”

He knew he would eventually have to tell her what he knew about Adam, but he wasn’t sure if he was prepared for it. Taking a deep breath he turned towards her, looking her in the eyes.

“I know what happened.” He took her hand in his. “I know what he did to you.”

“What are you talking about…he didn’t do anything to me.” She could feel the tears building up as he looked at her.

“Ash, it’s ok you can talk to me about it.” He reassured her.

“Nothing happened!” she yelled as the tears fell from her eyes. She jumped from the couch and ran upstairs locking herself in one of the guest bedrooms.

AJ sighed as he watched her run off. He knew she would be upset that he found out but he thought it would be a relief to her to be able to open up to someone else, apparently he was wrong. He retreated to his bedroom not wanting to upset her anymore then he already had.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AJ tossed and turned in his sleep unable to fully rest. He had been trying to fall asleep for the past two hours but couldn’t get everything he and Ashley had talked about out of his head. Groaning he looked over at the clock and saw it was four in the morning. He sat up and stretched a little pulling on a pair of sweatpants as he got out of bed. He made his way up to the kitchen to get something to drink. As he walked into the room he noticed the door leading to the balcony slightly open. Grabbing a bottle of water he made his way over to the door peaking his head out. Ashley was sitting on one of the loungers staring up at the early morning sky. He made his way out on the balcony and took a seat next to her. Glancing over at her he could see her tear streaked face and her eyes still ready to water over.

“Ash…” she looked over at him her eyes filled with nothing but pain and tears.

She couldn’t hold it in anymore as she looked over at him she broke down, finally letting the tears out.

AJ sighed and pulled her into a comforting hug letting her cry for as long as she needed.

“Everything’s going to be alright…we’ll figure this all out, I promise.” He comforted her as she continued to cry.
Chapter 62 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry it took me so long its been a crazy week...more sometime this week :) enjoy cuz you all have been waiting for this one...let me know what you think!
“You promise you wont say anything to mom?” Ashley asked as they turned into the driveway.

“You need to talk to her, at least about what’s going on at school.” AJ sighed as he shut off the car . “Nothing will get better unless you let her help you.”

Ashley and AJ walked into her Huntington Beach apartment just after noon. They heard voices coming from the kitchen and headed in. Ashley timidly stood behind AJ not knowing if she would be yelled at or not. AJ cleared his throat letting Denise know they were home.

“Ashley!” Denise jumped from her chair and pulled her into a tight hug. “I was worried sick about you, don’t you ever scare me like that again!” She slightly scolded her but quickly pulled her into another hug.

“I’m sorry.” Ashley said softly.

“Well we’re just glad you’re safe.” The person Denise had been speaking to came and hugged her.

“Uncle Tony, what are you doing here?” Ashley looked at him in confusion after returning the greeting.

“I was attempting to surprise your mom, but I was the surprised one when I showed up and found her practically having a nervous breakdown because she couldn’t find you.” Tony’s tone reflected his disappointment in her. “What were you thinking leaving like that? You could have been hurt or worse…”

“It’s ok, none of that matters now. Everything is fine now that you’re home.” Denise cut him off and smiled wiping her eyes, her emotions getting the best of her.

“No mom it’s not alright, I was wrong. I shouldn’t have left.” Ashley sighed. “I just didn’t know what else to do.”

“You could have come and talk to me sweetie. You should have let me know what was going on at school, these people can’t get away with these things or they’ll never stop.”

“I thought it would blow over, but I guess I just couldn’t deal with it as well as I thought.”

“Well we have plenty of time to talk now. Why don’t you explain to me what’s been going on.” Denise wanted to put an end to this bullying as quick as possible and try and get Ashley’s suspension lifted.

“It’s been a long night…can I take a shower or something first. I really just need to clear my mind.” Ashley smiled meekly.

“Of course sweetheart, take as much time as you need.” Denise hugged her again and smiled at her running a hand down her cheek. “I’m just glad that you’re home safe.”

“I’ll be in my room.” Ashley looked at AJ with a pleading look not to say anything. He sighed deeply as she walked off towards her room.

“Sweetheart, you can’t keep acting as if nothing happened. If you let this slide she’s just going to keep testing your limits until she breaks you.” Tony sighed.

“I need to find out what’s going on at school, if I yell at her she closes right up.” Denise sighed. “I yelled at her yesterday and look what happened, she ran away.”

“You have to start putting your foot down with her more before you loose the authority that you have.”

“Alex, do you know anything about what’s going on?” She asked trying to avoid an argument with Tony. They had been disagreeing recently over the best way to deal with Ashley’s rebellious streak and she didn’t want to get into it now.

“I think it’s best if you talk to her mom, she knows she needs to tell you about what’s going on.” He danced around her question not wanting to break the little trust he had built with Ashley the following night.

“What was that look between you two about then?” she questioned once more.

“It was nothing mom.” AJ lied.

“You of all people should know that you can’t keep a secret from me for long. Now please tell me what you know.” Denise gave him a stern look. He knew he couldn’t lie to her.

“She’ll tell you all about that mom, I promise.” He sighed.

“Well then why don’t you tell me where you found her last night.”

“She called me from a club on Sunset last night.”

Denise took a deep breath before she spoke. “The same club she was at last time?”

“Yeah.” He could see the disappointment on her face.

“Who was she there with?”

“I’m not sure. She just said she had an argument with a friend and couldn’t get a ride back home.” He lied trying to keep out the information that would really get her into trouble.

“Sometimes I don’t know what to do with her. I never have been through this before since you weren’t really in school, and girls are so much different.” Denise sighed again and poured herself another cup of coffee. “There are times she comes home so depressed over things that people say or do to her and all because she gets the good parts in the shows. She thinks I don’t notice, but I see how it affects her. Sometimes I just want to take her back out of school, but she wants to stick it out.”

“Why wouldn’t you tell me this stuff mom? I could help you.”

“Alex, the two of you have barely spoke to each other in the past 2 years, you’re not much help.” Denise didn’t mean to be harsh but it was the truth.

“You know that I hate that we’re not speaking, but I can’t force her. We’ve made some progress and she’ll forgive me when she’s ready.” AJ sighed and glanced at his watch. “I have a meeting soon. I’ll come back for dinner if that’s ok?”

“You know you’re always welcome here hunny. I’ll make something special.” She kissed him goodbye as she walked him to the door.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

AJ reached for his phone as he got off the freeway back in Los Angeles. He hit the speed dial calling his good friend and bodyguard Marcus.

“Hey man how was your vacation?” AJ said as he picked up. “Sweet, what are you up to?”

He listened as Marcus talked for a moment before continuing.

“Listen, I need you to come with me to meet up with someone…I’ll fill you in more when I stop by, but are you down?” Marcus agreed and AJ heading in the direction of his house.

“Hey man.” He greeted Marcus as he opened the door letting him in.

“So what’s goin on? Who are you meeting with?” he asked as the two men entered the living room.

“It’s not a meeting really…” AJ sighed taking a seat. “You remember that creep Adam I used to hang with?”

“That’s the guy from X who always used to hang around with that chick Amy right?”

“Yea.” AJ continued, as Marcus looked at him curious as to why he would be meeting with him. “He’s been hanging around my sister lately and I really don’t want to get into details but he needs a little wake up call to stay the hell away from her.”

“How did your sister end up around that crowd?”

“I don’t know but I want to keep her away from them. He’s already tried to get her to use coke, I don’t need her going down that road. As much as she says she won’t call him again I can’t be sure of that. I need to make sure that he gets the message loud and clear. I don’t want him around her.”

“So what’s my role in this whole thing?” Marcus asked.

“I just need you to make sure I don’t get crazy. Pull me back if I’m taking things too far.”

“You know I have your back man, just be smart.”

“I know…he should be home right now so let’s get moving.”

The two made their way out and got into AJ’s truck. They drove the short distance to Adam’s house and saw his car in the driveway. AJ made his way to the front door, Marcus close behind. AJ pounded on the door and waited for Adam to answer.

“Look who the hell it is.” Adam grinned as he opened the door. “Didn’t think you’d be showing up at my house any time soon. You know I don’t do my business here, if you’re looking for stuff you’ll have to meet me somewhere else.”

“You know why I’m here, and it sure as hell ain’t for drugs. We need to have a little talk.” AJ rolled his eyes at Adams cocky attitude.

“What ever could this be about? Or is it more like who?” Adam laughed. “You can come in, but your friend here needs to wait outside.”

“Fine.” AJ knew he could handle his own and Marcus would still step in if he heard any trouble.

The two men walked into the house as Marcus waited out on the front stairs just incase he was needed.

“Surprised it took you so long to show up. Guess you’re sisters right about you not being involved.” Adam tried to test his waters.

“What goes on between me and my sister has nothing to do with you.”

“But I suppose what goes on between me and your sister is all of your business?”

“It is when my sister is only 15.”

“Gotta love them young ones, so desperate for attention, willing to do whatever it takes to stay in the game.” He smirked.

“You’re such a scumbag, I’m glad my sister realized just how much of a loser you really are.”

“Are you sure about that? She came back once, I have no doubt that she won’t come back again and I don’t think you would be here right now if you believed she wouldn’t come back.”

“If I have anything to do with it you’ll never even talk to her again.”

“Not like I care really, I got what I wanted from her.”

“More like you took what you wanted from her.”

“She didn’t know what she wanted, I had to make her realize what it takes to roll with me.”

AJ could barely stand to listen to him anymore, he knew he was trying to break him and it was working.

“I must say she was pretty damn good though…hearing her cry and squirm under me trying to get away was such a turn on…”

AJ lost it at that point he couldn’t stand to hear Adam talk about Ashley as if she were no more then a piece of meat.

“You fucking worthless excuse for life.” AJ yelled as his fist connected with Adams face.

“She gave up eventually though.” Adam kept egging him on, the punch not swaying him. “I think she started to like it.”

“You fucking piece of shit!” AJ slammed him into the wall and punched him in the stomach finally making him stop.

Adam pushed back causing AJ to hit into the shelf against the opposite wall. Adam lunged at him punching him in the mouth. It did nothing but piss AJ off more. He kneed Adam in the groin and pushed him to the ground as he continued to punch him in the face.

“That’s enough, he’s had enough. He gets it.” Marcus came into the room pulling AJ off a bleeding Adam.

“Stay away from my sister you piece of shit.” He said as he kicked him in the side. “If I see you even close to her I swear I’ll kill you.”

“Come on let’s go.” Marcus said pulling AJ from the house. “ Get in the car.”

AJ got into the passenger side of his truck as Marcus started the car and pulled away.

“What the hell was that about?” Marcus said as he drove towards his house.

“He and I needed to come to a little understanding.” AJ checked his face in the mirror. He had a small cut on his lip and a bump on the back of his head but other then that he was fine. He hadn’t wanted to get physical with Adam, but he knew it was needed to make the message clear.

“Anything here you might not be telling me?”

“It’s a long story Marc…”

“Already heard most of it…I came inside as soon as you guys walked away, why don’t you fill in the blanks.”

He looked over at him and signed as he began to tell him what exactly had happened between Ashley and Adam.
End Notes:
I am very honored to have been nominated for best new author in the readers choice section of the Felix awards if you get the chance please go vote for me or one of the other very deserving candidates.
Chapter 63 by AshleyNicoleFans
Denise knocked on Ashley’s door before stepping inside. Ashley was tucked under the covers in her bed lying in silence. Denise signed as she walked over towards the bed and took a seat at the end.

“Sweetheart, are you awake?” Denise asked shaking her leg lightly.

“Yea.” Ashley mumbled.

“We need to have a heart to heart. I need to hear from you exactly what has been going on lately.” Denise pulled the covers away slightly so she could hear her better.

“Is Alex still here?” she asked timidly.

“He had to go back to LA for a meeting but he’s coming back soon.”

“Can we wait until he gets back?”

“I guess there’s no harm in that, but when he gets back we’re not putting it off.”

“Ok.” She gave her a half smile and pulled her covers back up.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A few hours later AJ returned to the smell of chicken cutlets and lasagna.

“Mom, have I told you how much I’ve missed your cooking?” He laughed walking into the kitchen. He grinned seeing the cookies set out too. Denise smacked his hand away before he could grab one.

“Those are for after dinner. Now go set the table so we can eat.” She handed him the stack of plates.

“Ashley, come eat dinner.” She called to Ashley who had locked herself away in her room since she returned home.

“She hasn’t come out to talk to you yet?” he asked as he set the plates in their proper spots on the table.

“She said she didn’t want to talk to me alone, that she’d rather wait until you came back.” Denise said as she took the tray of pasta from the oven.

“Ashley, dinner.” Denise called to her again.

“I’m not hungry.” She called back.

“Well then come sit with us because we’re all eating dinner together.”

“I’ll get her.” AJ said walking towards her room. He knocked on the door and peeked his head in. Ashley was lying on her bed staring at the wall. “Come on kiddo…you promised me you’d talk to mom. Come eat dinner with us and then we can all sit and talk.”

Ashley groaned and reluctantly got out of bed walking towards the door. AJ stopped her and pulled her into a hug before she could walk past him.

“You’ll feel better once you talk to her.” He said pulling away from the hug to look at her.

“What happened to your lip?” Ashley asked.

“It’s nothing, I must have bit it…come one that food smells really good and I know you must be starving.” He avoided the question and pushed her out the door and towards the kitchen with his hands on her shoulders.

“Smells good.” Ashley said quietly as she took a seat at the table.

“It’s nice to see you actually joining us.” Tony said sarcastically taking a seat across from her. He wasn’t doing much to hide his disappointment and anger for her. He could hear him talking to Denise earlier about how she had to take more control and discipline her more before she spiraled out of control.

“Let’s just have a nice dinner everyone.” Denise said smiling at Tony as she placed the food down on the table and began serving it. “It’s not everyday that we’re all together.”

“The food is really good.” AJ said taking a bite of his pasta, trying to lighten the mood. “I need to start coming for dinner more often.”

“You’re welcome here whenever you want sweetie, you know that.” Denise took a seat after serving everyone.

“So Alex how was your meeting?” Denise asked trying to keep the conversation going.

“Same as always, boring and uneventful.” AJ lied, hoping his mother wouldn’t be able to tell. Ashley studied his face and could tell he was hiding something. She wondered if it had anything to do with his cut lip but didn’t want to push it at the moment.

“What was it about?” Denise asked.

“Just terms of our break and all that business crap. They want to make sure we’re all on the same page.” He shrugged nonchalantly as he continued to eat his food.

“Well that’s good. I’m glad you boys are finally getting some rest. You’ve been on the run for too many years now, you deserve the break.” Denise smiled.

“Tell me about it.” He sighed. “I just gotta figure out how to keep myself busy.”

“I’m sure you’re figure something out.” Denise smiled and turned her attention to Ashley. “So Ashley, after we finish dinner would you mind helping me with the dishes?”

“I guess.” She shrugged.

“I’ll do them with her.” AJ offered. “You cooked dinner, let us do the cleanup.”

“Thank you sweetheart.” Denise smiled at the two. “Once the dishes are done then we can all sit and talk. Tony and I need to have a discussion with you about something important and since Alex is here too it’s best to do it tonight this way everyone is involved.”

“Can’t we just talk alone?” she asked aggravated.

“I thought you didn’t want to talk alone and that’s why we were waiting for Alex to get back.” Tony chimed in.

“I meant just me my mom and my brother.” Ashley said in a snooty tone.

“No, we’re going to finish this nice dinner as a family and then we will all talk.” Denise said sternly.

Ashley signed and took a few more bites of her food before pushing her plate away. The idea of having to talk to Denise about everything that’s been going on was making her nauseous. The rest of dinner went on fairly quiet as Ashley sat around waiting for everyone to finish their meals.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“It won’t be as bad as you think.” AJ said to her as they put all the dishes into the sink.

“I’m not worried about mom, I’m worried about Tony. If it was up to him I’d be grounded until I croaked.” Ashley sighed as she began to clear off the plates.
“You have to see it from his side too Ash. Mom may act like a brick wall in front of you, but who do you think she goes to when she doesn’t know how to deal? He’s the only one who knows how much all of this affects her, and I’m not just talking about you either, it was the same when I was having trouble.”

“I guess.”

“You’re a good kid and mom and Tony know that, they just want to help you before you screw your life up like I did.” He sighed as he dried the plates she was washing.

“You didn’t screw up Alex, you got help that’s what matters.” Ashley stopped and looked at him.

“Then how come you still won’t let me live it down?” he finally asked.

“Alex…” Ashley sighed not really knowing what to say. “You really hurt me back then, but I know that you’re sorry and that if you could take it back and change the way things turned out you would. I know I’ve said some pretty harsh things to you and I’m sorry. I don’t hate you, I’m just scared of getting hurt.”

“I’m a different person now Ash, and we’re never going to get past any of this unless you learn that you really can trust me again.” He sighed as he placed the last of the dishes in the cabinet. “Come one…it’s time to talk to everyone.”

Ashley sighed as he walked out of the room. He was right, all he had been trying to do for the past two years is prove to her that she could trust him but she couldn’t accept it. She knew in order for things to really go back to normal with them she was going to have to get over the past and move on, he deserved that much after all he had done for her recently. Taking a deep breath she walked into the living room to begin the conversation she had been dreading all day.
End Notes:
im hoping to write another chapter tomorrow or Tuesday the latest hope you enjoyed this one I know it's a little short but I didn't want too much going on at once you'll see why in the next chapter :) Feedback is appreciated
Chapter 64 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
changes changes changes...lol hope u like them
Ashley bit her lip nervously as she took a seat on the chair across from Denise and Tony.

“So…”Ashley said timidly trying to break the awkward silence that was filling the room.

“I know you’re nervous sweetheart, but we’re not here to yell at you, we’re here to listen.” Denise tried to reassure her. “Why don’t you explain to us what happened yesterday.”

“I know Jared already told you what’s been going on, I don’t know what else to say.” Ashley shrugged.

“How’s about clueing us in on why you left instead of talking it out.” Tony said.

“I really don’t know.” Ashley mumbled a little, she didn’t really have an answer.

“I was so scared when I couldn’t find you, especially after everything that Jared told me…I didn’t know what to think.” Denise confessed.

“I didn’t mean to scare you…I’m sorry.” Ashley hung her head slightly.

“How did you think she would react to you running away?” Tony asked.

“I told you, I didn’t run away. I just needed some time to clear my mind and think things through. I was just stressed and didn’t know how to deal with it.”

“Why wouldn’t you come talk to me?” Denise asked sadly.

“And say what mom? That these girls try and make my life a living hell for no reason? You wouldn’t even give me the chance to talk to you about the fight, how was I going to explain this to you?” she finally looked up at Denise.

“I meant before all of this got to this level. Why didn’t you come to me right away and let me put an end to it?”

“Mom, I’m not a little kid. Coming to you would have made things worse. I needed to handle it on my own and this was the first time they’ve done something this bad.” She sighed. “I thought it would just blow over but the girl just kept going at it until I couldn’t take it anymore.”

“And now you’re paying for it. You got suspended for the rest of the week and you’ll be lucky if they don’t take you out of the play or the academy.” Denise remarked.

“I made a mistake and I’ll deal with it.” She shrugged just wanting this conversation to be over. “Is that it?”

“No, Tony and I still have something we want to discuss with you.” Denise swallowed the lump that was beginning to form in her throat. Tony took Denise’s hand and smiled at her supportingly. Denise smiled back then turned her attention back to Ashley and AJ who had remained quiet throughout the conversation.

“You know that Tony and I have been together for a while now and we really love each other. We’ve been talking and have decided to take the next step in our relationship.”

“Meaning?” Ashley asked confused.

“I’ve asked your mom to marry me.” Tony chimed in excited.

“Wow! Congratulations!” AJ said excitedly.

“So what does that mean?” Ashley knew there had to be a catch with the way they were bringing it up.

“Well.” Denise took a second. “As you know Tony’s business runs out of Orlando. So at the end of the semester we’ll be moving back to Florida.

“What?” Ashley yelled. “Don’t I get a say in this?”

“Ashley, with everything that has been going on since we moved out here I think it’s best to get you out of this environment and I really don’t like this road that you’re starting to head down. I think this is what’s best for you.” Denise tried to reason with her.

“Best for me?” She scoffed. “No, it’s what’s best for you! You don’t care what I want!”

“I think maybe we should talk this out and see all the good sides.” Tony chimed in trying to break the tension.

“I don’t care what you think!” Ashley yelled on the verge of tears. “This is all you’re fault! I hate you!” she yelled and ran off to her room slamming the door.

“I knew this wouldn’t be easy.” Denise sighed wiping away the tears that had formed in her eyes.“I just want everyone to be happy.”

“Don’t worry hunny we’ll work this out.” Tony rubbed her back and handed her a tissue.

“Yea mom, be happy. Everything will work out.” AJ said as he formed his own plan in his head.

Once Denise had calmed down a little AJ brought in some coffee and the cookies she had baked earlier.

“Here mom, have some coffee.” He said as he placed it down on the table in front of her.

“Thanks honey. So what do you think Alex? Do you think that she’ll come to terms with this? Or is she right? Maybe I’m not thinking of her.” Denise sighed taking a sip of her coffee.

“Mom it’s about time you think about yourself a little. You uprooted your whole life to move her out her for school.” He reminded her.

“I know Alex but I promised her mother I’d take care of her and she’s become like my own. I want what’s best for her and I want her to be happy and accomplish her goals. What if I move her back to Orlando and she doesn’t find a school as good as the one she’s in now? What then? I’d feel horrible.”

“Mom you can’t stop living your life. You have dreams too. You gave up so much for the both of us it’s about time you live for yourself.”

“Alex you’re all grown up, I know I don’t have to worry about you as much anymore but Ashley is only 15, she’s still my top priority.” Denise reminded him.

“What if there was another way for both of you to be happy?” AJ finally was ready to talk out his plan.

“I’d be willing to think over anything that would make her not hate us right now.” Denise signed.

“What if you move back to Florida with Tony and Ashley moves in with me.”

“Alex are you serious? You take care of Ashley?” she couldn’t help but laugh a little. “I have my hands full with her, what makes you think you could handle her?”

“Because I know exactly what she’s getting herself into and I know how to make her wake up and get back to herself. I know what it feels like to be lost and confused. I can help her.”

“Alex I know you want to help but the two of you aren’t even on good terms right now. How do you expect to live with her? You two would kill each other.” Denise pointed out.

“Mom what better of a way for us to reconnect then living together? She’s mad at me for not being there for her right? Well if I do this for her then maybe that will be the final step in making things better between us again.” He rebutted.

“He’s got a good point sweetheart.” Tony finally spoke up. “Maybe it will be good for the both of them.”

“And just think you guys can move sooner then you wanted. I have enough time off to focus on her and it will keep me busy. We can live here until she’s done with school and then live at my house over the summer.”

“And what about next year when school starts up again?” she asked.

“Well when I have time off we’ll live here in Huntington Beach. Ashley will be sixteen and she’ll be able to drive. If I have to work then she can commute. It’s not that far of a drive.”

“You seem to have this all figured out don’t you?” Denise sighed contemplating what AJ was proposing. “I have to think this over and we have to talk to Ashley and see what she thinks.”

“Why don’t you let me go talk to her first.” AJ said as he left the living room and headed toward Ashley’s room. He knocked on the door.

“What do you want?” she yelled from the other side of the door.

“Can I come in?” AJ asked poking his head in.

“What do you want?” she asked again. She was sitting at her computer desk typing away on her laptop.

“Can we talk?” he asked sitting on the chair across from her by the window.

“Do I have a choice?” she asked dryly. “Oh wait that’s right I don’t have a choice on anything that goes on in my life.” She said sarcastically.

“Well if you would listen to me for a few minutes then you’d realize I’m trying to give you a choice.” He retorted not putting up with her usual snootiness.

He had caught her attention. She closed her laptop and turned to face him letting him know she was ready to listen.

“I have a proposition for you.” He began.

“Go on.”

Ashley listened intently as AJ went through his whole plan that he had already discussed with Denise.

“And mom would actually go through with this?” she asked when he was finally done.

“She’s thinking about it, but I think if you tell her that you want to she’ll say okay. Her major concern right now is that we haven’t exactly been on speaking terms.” He informed her.

“And what’s in it for you?” she raised a brow.

“Nothing more then the chance for you and me to get back to the way we used to be. I want you to see that I’ve changed. I’m back to being Alex and I think it’s about time that we try and fix things between us.”

“And you don’t think we’d kill each other? I mean come on Alex we don’t exactly get along.”

“I’m not saying it’s not going to take some effort on both of our parts but we used to get along, I see no reason why we can’t get back to that.”

“So you really want me to move in with you?” she asked timidly.

“Yes. I could use the company.” He said sincerely. “But I have to warm you I know mom lets you get away with a lot because she thinks you’re this perfect little angel, but moving in with me does come with some rules.”

“Like?”

“Well for one the clubbing stops and so does the drinking.” He looked at her sternly. “And the smoking pot.”

Her eyes grew as she looked at him nervously. How did he know about that?

“Don’t think I didn’t smell it on you last night or haven’t seen the pictures of you smoking with Aaron and his friends. No one else may have noticed you in those but I did.”

“I’m sorry.” She sighed knowing he must be disappointed in her.

“Don’t be sorry, everyone makes mistakes but just don’t do it again.” He warned her. “I don’t want you to go too far down the wrong road.”

“I know.” She took a deep breath. “I’ll clean up my act, I promise. Just please convince mom to let me stay here.”

“I think that will be a joint effort.” He placed a hand on her shoulder smiling at her a little. “But I think we can do it.”
End Notes:
please let me know what u think :) thanks to everyone who has been reviewing! I appreciate it.
Chapter 65 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
**Sorry if you guys read this right after I posted I was in a rush and forgot to take out my notes haha thanks for telling me Lenni!its all fixed now :)

hope you enjoy and let me know what you think
“Are you positive this is what you want to do?” Denise asked as she looked across the table at Ashley.

“It can’t hurt to at least try right?” she answered hopefully.

“Maybe that’s the best thing we can do…” Denise thought for a moment. “Why don’t we have a little trial period and see how that goes. We can make a definite decision from there.”

“Sounds fair enough.” AJ said.

“How would that work?” Ashley chimed in.

“My publishing company has been working me to do a small book tour for the past few months. I would have to go on the road for two or three weeks. Alex can stay here with you while I work on that. If that’s alright with you.” Denise looked over at him.

“That sounds perfect, when would you leave?”

“Well I still need to talk with my publishers, I’m sure it will take them a week or two to get everything in order. I want to get everything settled at Ashley’s school first anyway.”

“Mom it’s really not necessary.” Ashley sighed just wanting all of the drama to end.

“Yes it is. These girls can’t get away with this. First thing tomorrow morning we’re going in to talk to the dean. This trouble needs to be put to rest before they take it any further.” She said sternly. “If this whole plan of you living with Alex is going to work out I need to feel safe knowing that you’ll be ok at school when I’m on the other side of the country.”

“Fine.” She sighed in defeat not wanting to push her luck.

“And just one more thing.” Denise looked at her as she got up from the table. Ashley looked at her questionably waiting for her to continue. “I think you owe Tony an apology for how you spoke to him before, he was only trying to help.”

Ashley sighed, knowing she was right. She walked out onto the small back patio where Tony was just finishing up a conversation.

“Hi.” Ashley said timidly as he looked up at her.

“All done talking with your mom?” he asked.

“Yup.” She smiled a little.

“So what’s the verdict?”

“Mom is going to take a short book tour and let me and Alex test it out for a while to see if we can get along without killing each other.”

“Sounds fair enough.” Tony smiled slightly. “I’m sure you both will find a way to make it work. I think it will be tough but it’s a good step for the both of you.”

“Yeah.” Ashley took a deep breath letting it out slowly before continuing. “I really wanted to say sorry to you for before when I yelled at you. I didn’t mean what I said, I don’t hate you, not at all I was just angry I guess.”

“I understand, and I accept your apology. I don’t want to be the bad guy here, and I don’t want you to feel as if I’m trying to ruin your life or control how you mother chooses to raise you.” He began. “I just worry about you as much as she does. I know how smart and talented you are and I just don’t want you to throw away the good opportunities you have by making poor choices. Your mom is only trying to help you, and we both just want what’s best for you. We wouldn’t do anything that we feel would hurt you in the long run. Any decision she makes or that we make together we always have your best interest in mind, even if it’s hard to see it that way.”

“I know, and I know I’ve messed up a lot, but I’m trying to do better.”

“I know sweetheart. Just keep it up, and don’t feel like you can’t talk to your mother about what’s going on in your life. She’s a lot more insightful and understanding then you give her credit for.” He reminded her.

“I know. I’ll try.” She smiled.

“That’s all we’re asking for.”

Ashley got up from the chair she was sitting in and headed back inside. Before she closed the door she turned back to him.

“By the way, congratulations. I know I kind of freaked out before but I really am excited for the two of you. You make my mom really happy and I’m glad that you two are together.”

“Thank you, that means a lot.” He smiled at her before she disappeared back inside the house.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ashley groaned as Denise shook her awake the next morning. She pulled the covers up over her head trying to block out the light coming through her window.

“Come on sweetheart, it’s already 10:30. I called your school and we have a meeting with the dean in an hour. You need to get up and get ready.” Denise shook her some more trying to get her motivated. She was never a morning person.

“I don’t wanna go.” Ashley whined from under the covers.

“You have to. Come on, you promised me yesterday and I already set up the appointment. We have to be on time.”

“Fine.” Ashley groaned and sat up in bed stretching and wiping the sleep from her eyes. “But I don’t know what good it will do.”

“The dean needs to be aware of what has been going on, or this situation will never end. It won’t be that bad, I just want him to hear your side of the story and hopefully set the record straight. We don’t want this suspension interfering with your after school activities or the academy.”

“I know I still don’t have to be excited about it though.” She sighed.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

An hour later Ashley was back in the same seat outside of the dean’s office she had occupied two days earlier, with Denise next to her, awaiting their meeting. Unbeknownst to Ashley the dean had already begun speaking to students rumored to be involved with the incident trying to get to the bottom of it. Ashley bit her lip nervously as she heard the office door opening. She looked up to see Meghan, Elaine and Stephanie walking out of the office with their parents behind them.

“I’m sorry we had to call you all away from work, but this matter needed to be handled.” The dean said as he escorted them towards the main office door acknowledging Denise as he passed them.

Ashley smiled inwardly hoping that the girls were getting what they deserved. She knew it was wrong to feel good about it, but she couldn’t help but snicker quietly as she looked at Meghan, the bruise on her nose still apparent through her caked on makeup.

“Well I can assure you that they will all be getting a very strong talking to and this will never happen again.” The last parent said as they exited the main office.

The dean turned back around once they were gone and smiled as he walked back over to greet them.

“Ms. McLean, Ashley thank you for coming in to see me. Let’s step into my office.”

Denise and Ashley followed him inside and he shut the door behind them taking a seat behind his desk.

“I am very glad that you called me today after some careful questioning and interrogation we were able to find the girls responsible for creating the flyers that were passed around the other day. They have been suspended for three days and are being placed on probation. We have a zero tolerance for these kinds of things, and they will be watched closely from now on.” He reassured them.

“Thank you very much for settling it so quickly.”

“It was much easier then expected, the girls haven’t been furtive about it. Had they not bragged so much they might have gotten away with it, but once I threatened expulsion if we found proof on our own they gave themselves up and apologized. I’m very sorry that you had to go through something like this.” He now turned his attention to Ashley. “If there is any more trouble I need you to come to me right away and not let it escalate. I’m here to help in situations like these.”

“Ok, I will.” Ashley said timidly.

“Now as for the suspension, will that be lifted?” Denise asked.

“Unfortunately, no. I know she was coursed, but Ashley was still fighting on school grounds and we have to follow the rulebook when it comes to fighting. She will be let back into school on Monday and everything will be over and done with. Due to the situation we won’t be marking on her records and therefore she will no be on probation. She may continue all her regular school activities as well.” He informed them.

“Thank you so much for being so understanding.” Denise replied.

“Well Ashley is a great kid. She’s an excellent student and a great asset to the performing arts department and she’s never been in trouble before so as long as she keeps that up she will do just fine here.”

“Again, thank you so much for everything you have done for this situation. It puts me more at ease knowing the matter has been settled.”

“That’s what I’m here for.” He said. “And remember if you have any more problems come to me first.”

“Thanks, I will.” Ashley smiled timidly as they stood up to exit the office. She was relieved that things had gone so smoothly.

They said their farewells and headed out of the office and towards the main entrance of the school.

“See that wasn’t so bad, aren’t you glad we have this all settled?” Denise said placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

“Yeah.” She smiled a little.

“Ashley.” Someone called out to her before they walked out the front door. She turned around to see her musical director, Deanna, jogged up behind them. “I’m glad I caught you before you left. Do you mind if I talk to you for a minute?”

“Sure.” She said nervously, hoping she wasn’t going to loose her part in the upcoming play. “I’ll meet you in the car mom.”

Denise nodded and the two stepped just outside to talk, because of her suspension Ashley wasn’t allowed on school grounds without an adult and she didn’t want to risk getting in trouble.

“I heard about what happened the other day and I just wanted to let you know that I’m sorry I never stopped any of the bullying before it got this far.”

“It’s not your fault, you can’t control what they do.” Ashley shrugged.

“I saw how they were isolating you over the summer and I should have put a stop to it then. I just want to let you know that as long as your up for it the part is still yours. I won’t be pulling anyone from the show because I think you all mesh wonderfully as a cast, but I understand if you have a hard time working with them.”

“I would never. It would only let them think they won. I know how to work professionally and I won’t let any of this get in the way of the play.” She reassured her.
“Great, that’s what I was hoping to hear.” Deanna smiled. “You deserve this part and I want you to show them what your made of. Don’t let them intimidate you, I will be keeping a close eye on everyone and if there’re any problems I will put an end to them right away. We are all a team and we need to act like one.”

“Thanks, that means a lot.” She smiled back.

“I won’t keep you any longer, get to memorizing those lines and I will see you after school on Monday.”

“Thanks.”

“One more thing.” She said before she walked away. “My door is always open to all of my students, if you ever need anything or are having problems don’t hesitate to come talk to me.”

“Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind.” Ashley smiled as they parted ways. As bad as everything had been the past few days she was beginning to see the silver lining at the end of the clouds. She just hoped there wouldn’t be any more storms in the near future.
End Notes:
im going to try and get the next chapter up in the next few days and it will be more AJ/Ashley time lol it will be interesting :)
Chapter 66 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
YAY! New Chapter! Let me know what you think please :)
“Are you sure the two of you will be fine?” Denise said worried. “I don’t want to come home to find the two of you at each others throats.”

“We’ve been working on getting along and so far it’s going smoothly.” AJ reassured her. “We won’t know how this situation will work unless we really test it out.”

“Ok well just incase you need me my cell will be on at all times. My itinerary is posted on the bulletin board in the office but don’t worry about the time differences. If there is anything wrong don’t hesitate to call.”

“Mom, we need to try and work things out on our own so I’m not going to call you every time we disagree on something. If it’s really serious and it can’t be settled between just us I will call you, but I want us to work things out on our own.”

“I know you will be fine. Just remind her that if she’s not on her best behavior then its goodbye California.”

“She knows and she’s been trying to improve. I’m sure we wont have too much trouble.” He smiled trying to get her to relax.

“I’m a mother, I’ll always worry no matter how much I know you can handle it. It’s my job to worry.”

“I know and you’re the best at what you do.” AJ teased and helped her bring her bags to the front where there was a cab waiting.

“Have Ashley call me when she gets home from practice. I should be in New York by then.” Denise said before opening the cab door.

“Will do.” He said as he put her bags into the trunk. “Have a safe trip and please try and relax and enjoy this, you deserve it.”

“Thank you sweetheart, I will.” She hugged him goodbye before getting into the cab.

AJ shut the door and waved as the cab pulled off. He hoped his confidence wouldn’t get the best of him and the two of them could really get along as well as he hoped. He went back into the house and got some things together that he wanted to discuss with Ashley when she got home from school before deciding relax on the couch and watch a movie.

“I’m home!” Ashley called from the front door as she entered the house a few hours later. It was just about 6pm and Ashley was tired after a long day of school and play rehearsals. She walked into the living room to find AJ asleep on the couch.

“If I was a good sister I would let him sleep all peacefully.” She snickered. “But too bad I’m evil and hungry.” She grabbed a pillow off the couch and jumped on him smacking him with the pillow.

“Uhh!” AJ groaned in the shock of being jumped on. “What the…”

“Wakey wakey!” she grinned. “When’s dinner?”

“When you make it.” He said still in a fog of sleep.

“No way! I’ve been at school all day you’ve been sleeping. You’re supposed to make dinner!” she whined.

AJ turned quickly knocking her off of him and onto the floor.

“Oww!”

“Ha. That’s what you get.” It was now AJ’s turn to laugh. He sat up on the couch and reached out his hands to help pull her up. “Stop whining…what do you want to eat?”

“Food.”

“If you want dinner stop being a smart ass.” He said getting up and walking into the kitchen.

“I don’t know, anything that’s ready fast. I’m starving.” She followed taking a seat.

“Do you care if I just order a pizza? I’m not really in a cooking mood.”

“Tonight it’s fine, but I’m not gonna eat pizza for the next two weeks.”

“I’ll get better at cooking but you just gotta give me time. I’m not used to it.” He reminded her.

“You’ll pick it up fast.” She teased.

“While I order this go call mom, she wanted to talk to you when you got home.”

“Ok.” She smiled and went off to her room.

“Food should be here in about twenty minutes.” He said as she walked back into the kitchen. “Did mom get in safe?”
“Yea she was on her way to the hotel she said she would call you tomorrow because she was really tired.”

“So how has school been? No one’s been bothering you?” he tried to start some conversation.

“Nope. I guess after they got threatened with expulsion next time they got in trouble the figured it wasn’t worth it. They still don’t talk to me but I could care less about that.” She shrugged.

“Rehearsals are going good?”

“Yup.” She fiddled her fingers on the table at the awkward conversation. As much as they tried to get along any time they were in a conversation it felt forced. They were getting better but they both still needed work.

“So I was talking to a friend and they said it might be best if we tried to set up some ground rules that we would both follow to try and make things runs smoothly.” He suggested.

“Rules?” she raised a brow.

“Yea things that we both feel need to be worked on. They would be agreed upon by both of us so that we can’t argue about them later.”

“Just for these two weeks or for good?”

“Well we can set some up and try them out now and then if we make this permanent we can fix some or add some if we need to.”

“So what would these rules cover?”

“Anything we think we need to cover. Curfew, dating, house rules all that stuff.”

“I guess that wouldn’t hurt…but we’re negotiating on these right? It’s not just what you say goes? I can plead my case?” she asked.

“We’ll work through them and come up with a happy medium. Agreed?”

“Agreed. So where do we begin?”

“I have one rule and it’s really simple.” Ashley looked at him, waiting for him to continue. “No drinking, no boys and no sex.”

“Fine, my turn.” Ashley crossed her arms to challenge him “No drinking, no girls no sex.”

“You can’t tell me I can’t have girls in my own house.

“Hey listen all I’m saying is you don’t want to hear it and neither do I.” she smirked.

“You’re too young to be having sex anyway.”

“Let’s not get into this whole age battle because that will not hold up in this court.” She crossed her arms. “You can’t tell me I can’t have sex.”

“Maybe I can’t but mom can.”

“Oh no don’t you bring mom into this. What are you gonna do when she’s in Florida for real?”

“How’s about we settle on no guys here when I’m not home or without my permission.”

“Jared doesn’t count right?”

“Why wouldn’t Jared count? He’s a guy.”

“Yea a gay one who has no interest in getting in my pants. He doesn’t count.”

“Can you try and be a little less vulgar?” he shook his head.

“I’ll watch my mouth if you watch yours.”

“Remember who the adult is here again.”

“Remember how you said we were in this together and had to make compromises that would work for both of us?” she challenged.

“Fine.” AJ reluctantly gave in. “Jared doesn’t count but I want to meet any guy you’re even thinking about dating before hand.”

“Yea right, you’ll scare them all off the second they get here. I’d never date again!”

“That’s fine with me.” He shrugged. “You can’t blame me for that one, you haven’t had the best track record. I won’t go crazy, but I just want to make sure you’re not hanging around any sleeze balls.”

“I guess I can deal with that, but the second you scare one of them off that rule goes down the drain.” She reasoned with him.
“Ok we’ll play it by ear.” He agreed. “Now onto curfew. What’s your curfew right now?”

“Depending on where I am it’s usually one.”

“I think that’s a little late. I know mom is flexible with it and I’m willing to adjust it as needed but I think for now it should be 12:30.”

“That’s not fair! Why should I have to change it? I’m never anywhere good anyway.” She argued.

“If you’re never anywhere good then you won’t mind coming home early.” He smirked smugly knowing he was winning.

“12:30 is to early I’m gone be the only one who has to be home at that time.”

“Like I said depending on the situation I’m willing to be flexible, but just to have something set I think 12:30 is fair.” He rebutted. “As time goes on if you are good with getting home on time I’ll think about making it later, but you have to work for it.”

“Fine. 12:30…” she sighed in defeat.

“See that wasn’t that hard.” He smirked as the doorbell rang. “We can work with these for now and then talk about more later…sound good?”

"I guess only time will tell." she shrugged as he left to get the food.
End Notes:
hopefully a new 1 soon. I got some ideas in the works so there should be some fun stuff coming up...if you guys have anything that you want to see just let me know and I'll try and work it in. I love writing for you guys.
Chapter 67 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
just a fun chapter to add in something new:) hope you like it

fixed the spelling errors :) hopefully i got them all. I didn't have time to proofread before i posted last night and I was tired.
“You know who it is, and you know what to do.” AJ’s message went off once more as Ashley sighed, finally leaving a message.

“Alex, I’ve been calling you for like 20 minutes. I have some friends coming over after school and I just wanted to give you a heads up.” She said. “Lunch is almost over and I’ll be in class so I guess I’ll see you after school.”

The rest of the day went by uneventfully as Ashley kept checking her phone hoping to see a call back from AJ. Ashley smiled as she walked out the door of the school after her final class. She was relieved to have the weekend off for a change and couldn’t wait to get home and spend some time with Angel. She was a little nervous because Angel said she was bringing over two friends and she knew that meant a boy that Angel wanted her to meet. It’s not that she was scared of meeting new people; she just didn’t have the greatest track record when it came to boys.

“Hey bitch!” Angel yelled from a car window across the street from the school as Ashley walked by.

“Hey!” Ashley jogged over to the car. “What are you doing here? I thought you were meeting me at the house.”

“We decided to surprise you.” She grinned. “Get in!”

Ashley opened the door and got in the back of the car next to Angel.

“I’ve missed you!” Angel immediately pulled her into a hug. “We’ve been away from each other way too long.”

“Hey you’re the one who keeps venturing off to lord knows where with your brother, I’m in the same place all the time.” Ashley teased.

“I really have no choice.”

“I know, but we have to spend as much time together as we can while you’re here in case I get shipped back off to boring Florida.”

“You know AJ wouldn’t let that happen. From the sounds of it her really wants you here.” Angel said.

“Yea until I mess up and we get into a fight.” She sighed.

“Hey, you haven’t ripped each others heads off yet and its been what like 10 days? That’s a good sign.”

“I guess so. We’ll see how the rest goes, my mom comes home soon.”

“Did you talk to AJ about us coming over?” she asked.

“Nope, I called him a gagillion times and kept getting his voice mail. He still hasn’t called me back but I left a message to tell him I was having people over so I guess we’ll just see how that goes.” She shrugged. “Let’s just head home.”

“Oh before I forget let me not be rude. This is Danny, my boyfriend.” Angel began.

“Boyfriend? We really do need to catch up!” Ashley laughed cutting her off.

“We have plenty of time for that.” Angel laughed and continued. “And this is my new friend and one of Danny’s best friends, Ryan.”

“Hi.” Ashley smiled timidly and waved slightly at the two boys in the front seat.

“You remember how I told you to get to her house babe?” Angel asked sitting back in the seat.

“Yea.” Danny said as he pulled off to head back.

“He’s cute right?” Angel whispered to Ashley as they drove.

“Who Danny? Yea, he seems like you’re type.” Ashley smiled.

“No not Danny, Ryan! He’s cute right?”

“Angel, I told you already.” Ashley sighed. “I’m just trying to stay focused right now, and boy free.”

“Boy free is never fun.” Angel teased. “No ones saying you have to marry him, I’m just trying to show you that there are actually good guys out there.”

“We’re here, where should I park?” Danny asked.

“Park by the next house, my brothers not home yet and I don’t want him to come in being all full of questions.” She said.

He parked the car and they all got out and made their way towards the house. Ashley unlocked the door and let them all inside. They made themselves comfortable in the living room as Ashley checked the answering machine just in case AJ left her a message. Again there was nothing. Shrugging it off she quickly dropped off her book bag in her room and grabbed some snacks from the kitchen to bring to the others.

“I have some chips and stuff. We don’t have much, my brother hasn’t gone food shopping yet.” She set them down on the table and took a seat on the couch. She smiled timidly at Ryan, who was on the other end of the couch. She did have to admit he was really cute, Angel always knew how to pick the cute ones, she still had her insecurities clouding her head though.

“So Ryan, Ashley has an amazing voice. Maybe you can hear her sing one day.” Angel smiled.

“Oh really?” he smiled at her and she could feel her face flush.

Ashley just bit her lip timidly trying to hide her embarrassment.

“It’s not a big deal really.” She shrugged it off trying to get the attention off her.

“I think it’s really cool that you have something you like to do so much.” Ryan reassured seeing her shyness.

“Thanks.” She smiled slightly trying to warm up to him. She didn’t know what was wrong with her, she was never this quiet or shy around anyone, but for some reason she just couldn’t be herself.

The group talked for a while more and Ashley was beginning to loosen up a little more, but she still had a slight case of nerves.

“Why don’t we watch a movie or something?” Ashley suggested after a slight lul in the conversation.

“Sounds good.” The other agreed. Ashley checked the clock quickly and saw it was already 4:30. She didn’t know where AJ was and still hadn’t heard from him, but she hoped he wouldn’t be mad when he got home, since he had stressed no boys aside from Jared in the house without him knowing first.

“You guys can pick whatever you want, we have a whole bunch in that cabinet under the TV.” She said.

The boys quickly decided on a comedy, American Pie, and joined the girls on the couch again.

Ashley bit her lip nervously as Angel pushed her to sit closer to Ryan.

Not even halfway through the movie Ashley couldn’t help but notice Angel and her boyfriend not paying much attention to the movie and more to each other.

“Do you wanna go sit in the kitchen or something? I can’t really concentrate on the movie.” She laughed a little looking over at Angel and Danny.

“Yes please.” He laughed.

The two got off the couch and made their way into the kitchen. Ashley grabbed them some soda from the refrigerator and took a seat across from him at the table.

“So you’re a sophomore?” Ryan asked.

“Yea.” Ashley nodded a little taking a sip of her soda. “What about you?”

“I’m a junior.”

“That’s cool.” She fiddled her thumbs trying to think of other things to say. “Where do you go to school?”

“Hollywood.” He smiled.

“Oh that’s cool, they have a really big arts department there too right? I think we’ve done some competitions against them”

“I dunno, I just play football.” He shrugged laughing a little.

“That’s cool too. Our football team sucks.” She laughed.

“I know, we’ve played them before.” He teased.

“So what else do you…” he began

“Crap crap crap!” Ashley jumped up quick, cutting him off, as she heard a car pull up in the driveway. “My brothers home. He can’t find you guys here or I’m dead meat.”

“What do you mean?” Ryan looked at her with a raised brow. “I thought you said he knew you were having friends over.”

“Friends, not boys.” Ashley went to the living room and looked out the window to see AJ grabbing some bags from the trunk of his car. “You guys have to get out of here quick. Go out the back.”

She grabbed Ryan’s hand and led him to the back door, with Danny following; hoping AJ would take his time coming in.

“I’m really sorry I have to kick you guys out.” Ashley smiled sympathetically. “I just can’t afford to get in trouble right now if I want to stay here.”

“I won’t hold it against you…as long as we can hang out again.” Ryan smiled at her.

“Definitely.” She nodded with a smile. “Wait until you see him come in before you go around the front.”

“Bye babe, I’ll call you when I get home on Sunday.” Angel said to Danny as they headed out the door.

“It was nice meeting you Ashley.” He smiled.

“You too! Hopefully next time it won’t be so short.” She waved to them as they headed out.

The two girl quickly shut the door and rushed into the living room as they heard the key turning the lock.

“Ash, I’m home.” AJ called out as he walked in the door.

“In the living room.” Ashley yelled back as she and Angel rushed towards the couch and switched on the TV.

A few moments later AJ appeared in the doorway.

“Sorry I’m back so late, I brought some food home.” AJ said as he walked in. “Hey Angel…I thought you were having friends over.”

“Angel’s a friend and she’s over.” Ashley teased.

“Friends meaning plural I figured there’d be more kids here.”

“Oh, well since I didn’t get an answer from you I didn’t want to get in trouble if I had other people here.” She lied. “I figured you wouldn’t mind Angel being here.

“Of course not, she’s always welcomed. I’m sorry I didn’t call back I got caught up in a meeting.” He apologized.

“It’s no big deal.” Ashley shrugged it off and turned her attention back to the TV.

“So it’s gonna be just the two of you for dinner?” he asked on his way out.

“Yup, just us girls.” She smiled and looked over at Angel who smiled back.

As soon as AJ was out of ear shot Angel turned to Ashley.

“So?” she asked.

“So what?” Ashley tried to act as if she didn’t know what Angel was talking about.

“Did I do a good job?” Angel raised a brow in question.

“I have no idea what your talking about.” Ashley laughed egging her on.

“Oh shut up!” Angel shoved her playfully. “Did you like him or not?”

“He’s really nice.” She smiled slightly the blush becoming more apparent on her face.

“You so do!” Angel said excitedly. “I told you I would find you a good boy.”

“We’ll see.” Ashley sighed. “They always look good in the beginning.”

“Ryan is a really good guy, just take it slow and see how it goes. It never hurts to at least give it a shot.”

“I know, and believe me taking it slow is my new mantra. I think I finally got the hint that moving too fast never ends well.”
Chapter 68 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
hey guys here's the new chapter...hope you enjoy. I'm going to try and post another one in a few days but I have final papers 2 write so I can't promise anything. I never go more then a week though :) but let's hope it's sooner then that! ENJOY!
“Alex!” Denise said cheerfully as she picked up the phone.

“Hey mom. Sorry I missed your call earlier, I slept in. How’s everything going?” he asked as he sat on the couch flipping through the channels.

“Amazing. I’ve met so many incredible people it’s been very inspiring.”

“I’m glad you’re having a good time.”

“How is everything going over there? Have you killed each other yet?” she chuckled.

“We’ve actually been doing really good. A few small arguments here and there but over stupid stuff like laundry and dishes. I think we’re finally starting to understand each other a little better. We’re not pushing the same buttons.”

“I’m so glad to hear that. It makes me feel so much more at ease being away. I wanted to talk to you before I spoke with my publishers, but they want me to extend the book tour. Apparently they have been getting requests for signings in some new stores.”

“Wow mom that’s awesome. Are you going to do it?”

“I don’t want to inconvenience you.”

“What do you mean inconvenience me? I want Ashley to live with me, so you not being here isn’t an inconvenience.” He reminded her. “We’re doing good and were making it work, I don’t want you to worry about me and Ashley. It’s about time you do something for yourself.”

“Alex, I know you want to make her happy but I’m still unsure.”

“Mom I wouldn’t tell you things were ok if they weren’t, and I know that we can do this.” He tried to reassure her. “Why don’t you extend the tour as long as you need and when you come back you’ll see that everything is going great.”

“I trust you sweetheart, you just know how much I worry.” She tried to laugh it off.

“So how much longer would you be gone?” he asked smiling and waving slightly at a still half asleep Ashley walking into the room. She plopped herself down on the couch, curling into the plush cushions as she yawned.

“Is that mom?” she mouthed to him and he nodded. “HI MOM!”

“It would be at least another two weeks possibly three.” Denise responded. “Let me talk to Ashley.”

AJ handed the phone to her.

“Hi sweetheart. Sleeping in late?”

“I was at school until ten last night with rehearsals. It’s been a really busy week.” She yawned once more as she spoke.

“I can imagine, but everything has been going ok at school? No one is bothering you?”

“It’s been fine. Unfortunately I still have to see everyone, we just don’t talk unless we need to and we pretty much stay away from each other at any other time. I can deal with that.” She explained.

“I’m glad to hear things are better. Listen sweetheart, I was just talking to Alex about possibly extending the book tour a few more weeks. Would you be ok with that?” she asked.

“Yeah sure. We’re doing good here. Alex is getting better with dinner, it was actually edible last night.” She teased.

“Hey! I’ve been trying hard.” He defended himself.

“Wait, would you miss my show?” she asked realizing that it was only two weeks away.

“Nothing is set in stone yet, I promise that I will make the schedule fit around it. I may only be able to come to one show, but I will be there.”

“As long as you see it once I’m good.”

“Great. As soon as everything is figured out I will let you know when I can come and just how much longer it will be. I have to get ready to leave for a signing so have a good day and don’t drive your brother too crazy.” She teased.

“I’ll try not to.”

“I love you sweetheart, I’ll see you soon. Tell Alex goodbye for me.”

“Love you too mom. Have fun!” she said before hanging up.

“So looks like it’s just you and me for a few more weeks. Think you can handle it?” AJ teased.

“I think the question is can you handle it?” she grabbed the remote from him and switched the channel to Disney.

“You can’t be serious…” he shook his head.

“What? I’m a kid at heart.” She laughed.

“Last time I checked you still were a kid. What the heck is this show anyway?”

“Lizzie McGuire, get a clue.” She teased.

He watched for a few minutes and finally got up from the couch.

“I can’t take it, I tried but I can’t” he laughed. “I’ll be in the office. I have some calls to make anyway.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Two hours later AJ came back downstairs he looked in the living room and then found Ashley in her room.

“Hey.” He peaked his head in.

“Hey.” She turned from her computer to look at him.

“I have to go to LA to meet with someone and then to the house, wanna come?” he asked.

“Can you give me like 10 minutes to get ready?” she closed her laptop and turned towards him in her chair.

“Yeah, I don’t need to head out until 1:30 so you have about 25 minutes.” He informed her.

“Ok, I’ll be ready.”

She came out of her room 20 minutes later dressed and ready to go. She found AJ in the kitchen looking through some papers and stood in the doorway clearing her throat to get his attention.

“Ready to go?” he asked looking up.

“Yup.”

They headed for their car and made their way to Los Angeles.

“So who are you meeting with?” she asked as they pulled off of the freeway into LA.

“You’ll see.” He smirked.

She raised a brow looking over at him as he drove down a street.

“Just wait we’re almost there.” He said as he turned down a street and into the parking lot of the Farmers Market. He checked his phone as he pulled up to the valet. Ashley groaned as she looked around. Camera flashes were already going off. “What’s wrong?”

“I should have worn more makeup.” She checked the mirror quickly trying to fix her hair.

“You look fine.” He laughed getting out of the car and handing the parking attendant his keys and taking the ticket. She sighed once more and got out of the car meeting him at the front. He smiled at her again. “Chill out, you look fine.”

“Where are we going?” she asked trying to shake her insecurities off and ignore the people taking pictures around her.

“Coffee place.” He said crossing the small street.

“Can I get some frozen yogurt?” she asked as they walked up to the outdoor seating of the coffee shop.

“Sure, just hurry back. My friend should be here any minute.” He said handing her some money.

He went into the shop to get his coffee and came back out to find who he was waiting for.

“Allyson!” he greeted his friend with a hug.

“Hey AJ, I was wondering where you were.” She smiled and returned the hug. “You’re alone? I thought you were bringing your sister.”

“She’s here, she just went to get yogurt. She should be back any minute. He took a seat across from her. “She’s gonna be stoked when she finds out what we have planned.”

“I hope she likes what I’ve started already. From what you’ve said she’s very particular.”

“I’m sure you guys will get on the same level quick.” He said as he saw Ashley heading back over. He waved her towards them and she approached wearily. “Hey Ash, I want you to meet someone. This is Allyson.”

“Hi.” Ashley said and shook her outstretched hand before taking a seat.

“It’s so nice to finally meet you, AJ has been telling me all about you.”

“Umm ok.” She looked between the two of them with confusion. She didn’t seem to be AJ’s type but he was always full of surprises. “Are you like his new girlfriend or something?”

The two laughed slightly before AJ spoke up.

“Maybe I should formally introduce you, Allyson is my interior decorator.” He explained. The confused look on Ashley’s face caused him to laugh again before continuing. “She helped me decorate the house in Malibu.”

“I kind of got that, I know what a decorator is.” She took a few spoonfuls of her yogurt before continuing. “So why am I here?”

“Getting to that.” He laughed.

“Your brother called me about two weeks ago and told me that you were going to be moving in with him.” Allyson started.

“Remember when you and mom visited when I first moved in and I just made you stay in a guest room after giving mom this whole nice room.” He continued. “I know you were upset about that, and it’s something that’s been eating at me since then. If you’re going to be living with me I want to make sure you feel like your home.”

“So he asked me if I would mind meeting with you to discuss exactly how you want your new room to be.” Allyson finished.

“Really, I get to design the room?” she asked beginning to get excited.

“Allyson pulled some designs and things she thought you might like from what I told her about you, but you decide what you like and don’t like or anything else you want that she hasn’t pulled. It’s completely up to you.”

“This is so awesome!” she said with a big smile on her face. “When do we get to start?”

“You and Allyson are going to head to the house now to look over all the designs she has picked and then I’ll meet you there later for dinner. Sound good?”

“Let’s go! I’m so excited.” She jumped from the chair.

“Guess we will be seeing you later then.” Allyson laughed and stood to leave.

“I’ll be out there in a few hours, try to stay a little calm and don’t drive her insane.” AJ teased her.

“I won’t, I won’t. I’m just excited.”

“I know. Have fun.” He smiled.

“You totally rock for this.” She smiled back and hugged him before taking off with Allyson.
End Notes:
Please review and let me know what you think. I know it's been slowing down a little but I'm trying to pick the storyline back up again and make it a little more exciting. Hopefully I can come up with some good ideas.

Again I love your guys opinions and if there's anything at all you would like to see in the story let me know and I will do my best to get it in :) I write for you guys so I want to make sure you're getting what you're hoping for!
Chapter 69 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry it took me so long to get this up. More as soon as possible :) enjoy!!
Ashley smiled excitedly as she and Allyson drove down the highway.

“You can take a look at some of the things I’ve picked out. It’s just paint colors and things like that, but I have a binder on the back seat.” Allyson said as she focused on the road.

“Awesome.” Ashley said reaching behind her to grab the binder.

She opened the binder up to the first page and saw a picture of the floor plan with paint samples next to it. There was a mix of bright pinks and light greens, her favorite colors. She turned to the next page to see fabric swatches for curtains and pillows. She looked through the rest of the book and closed it with a big smile.

“So what do you think?” Allyson asked looking over at her briefly.

“Everything is so perfect! I love it all. How did you pick everything out that I would like?”

“Your brother was a lot of help. He told me a lot about you and he put me on the right track. He actually picked out most of that stuff.”

“Alex picked out all this?” she said in disbelief.

“Yea. He had a pretty good idea of what you would like. He’s actually pretty good when it comes to this stuff.”

“I guess he knows me better then I thought.” She smiled a little at the realization that maybe there was more to AJ then she gave him credit for.

“He really cares about you, and he wanted this to be perfect. He was going to surprise you but he was so nervous about everything being just right that he couldn’t wait and let me finish.” Allyson laughed.

“I’m really excited about this. I kind of got to decorate my room at our condo when we moved here, but we can’t paint or anything crazy so this is really cool.”

“He figured you’d want to be a part of it.” She said as she entered the gate code and pulled into the community where AJ lived.

“I haven’t been here in a while, I forgot how close it was to the beach.” She said looking at the houses as they drove by. “I can’t wait for the summer.”

“Here we are.” Allyson shut off the car as she parked in the driveway. She checked her watch as she looked through her purse for the key. “We have about three hours. I really want to work on the layout of the room.”

“Sounds good to me.” She smiled as they walked through the front door. “Wow, I forgot how amazing this place is.”

“He’s added a few things in the last couple of months.” She shut the door behind them. “Ok so your room is upstairs, come on I’ll show you.”

For the next few hours they worked on the finished touches of all of Allyson’s designs.

“Guys, I’m here.” AJ called out as he walked through the front door.

“Up stairs!” he heard Ashley call back. He jogged up the stairs and down the hall to Ashley’s soon to be room.

“How’s everything going?” he asked the two who were sitting on the floor surrounded by papers filled with notes and designs.

“Pretty good.” Allyson smiled.

“This room is going to be so cool!” Ashley said excitedly.

“Great. Did you guys get everything figured out?” he asked.

“Yeah, I’m going to start work on here next week now that we have everything finalized.”

“Well I don’t know about you, but I’m starving. You ready for dinner?”

“Actually, I have to run. I’m meeting with another client to discuss a potential job.”

“Cheating on me are you?” AJ teased.

“I’m so sorry you had to find out this way, but there are other clients in my life.” She joked.

“You guys are crazy, but I’m starving.” Ashley laughed getting up off the floor.

“Where do you want to eat?”

“Anywhere good, you choose I don’t remember everything around here.”

“There’s a good Italian place a few miles away, sound good?”
“Yum!” she grinned.

“See what you’re missing?” he smiled as they walked to the door with Allyson.

“Next time I’ll be there.” She smiled as he shut the door behind them. “It was really nice to finally meet you Ashley.”

“You too!” Ashley smiled and got into AJ’s truck.

“I’ll talk to you sometime this week when I start the shopping for her room.” Allyson said as she opened her car door.

“Thanks so much for helping me out with this.” AJ said as he hugged her goodbye. “I haven’t seen her this happy in a while.”

“it’s what I love to do. I can tell she’s already going to love it.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A short while later the two were seated in a booth at the restaurant. After they ordered their food Ashley began to tell him about the plans she and Allyson had set.

“I’m really excited about it. It’s gonna look so awesome from what she drew out for me.”

“I’m glad you like it. It’s good to see you smiling again.”

“What are you talking about?” she looked at him questionably as she took a sip of her soda.

“It just seems that every time things start to get better for you something happens. I know your not depressed or anything like that, but it’s good to see you smile and really be happy.”

“So what’s gonna happen this time?” she asked.

“What do you mean?”

“You said every time things start going good…they’re going good right now, I don’t want something to mess it up.”

“If I have anything to do with it things will stay going good.” He smiled to reassure her. “I want this to work out more then anything, I like having you around and I’m happy that we’re starting to connect again. I’ve missed having you around.”

“I missed you too.” She smiled. “Do you think mom is really gonna let me stay out here for good?”

“I see no reason why not.” He shrugged. As many things that have happened between us in the last few years I think that were both big enough to agree that the past is the past, and if we can put those things behind us I have a feeling we’ll be just fine.”

“I’m more then ready to forget all about it and start fresh.” She smiled.

“Great, then from this second right now we both have a completely clean slate.”

“Cheers to that.” Ashley smiled holding up her soda and silently hoping that everything would stay this good from now on.
Chapter 70 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sooo sorry this took so long to get up. I was out of town since Thursday and didn't know I wouldn't have internet access.
Two months had passed since their trial living arrangement and things were still going smoothly. Denise called everyday being the typical worrying mother but was happy to hear how well things had been going between the two. Ashley was doing well in school and hadn’t had any more trouble with bullies. Most weekends, if Ashley didn’t have rehearsals, they would stay at AJ’s house so he could get some work done. Ashley liked being in the house a lot more then the condo because she had more room and privacy and AJ just liked sleeping in his own bed.

The weather had been particularly nice for the time of year and Ashley was upstairs in her room getting ready as she had invited Jared, Tina and a few other friends over to hang out at the hot tub and have a barbeque before it started to cool back down.

“Ash your friends are already here, what are you doing?” AJ yelled up the stairs as the doorbell rang.

“I’m almost ready, chill out.” She yelled back down to him. “They can survive a few minutes without me.”

“Just hurry up. It’s rude to keep people waiting.” AJ moved over to the door and opened it thinking it was another of Ashley’s friends. “Yo man, what’s up? I wasn’t expecting to see you.”

“I was around the way, figured I’d stop by see how you’re doing.” Nick said from the other side of the door.

“Man it’s been all good, just a little crazy.” He opened the door more to allow Nick to step in. “My sister moved in with me towards the end of September so we’ve been moving back and forth between the house and the condo when she’s in school.”

“For real?” Nick asked with a raised brow and a laugh. “You’re like a professional bachelor, never thought you’d be the father type.”

“I’m not trying to be her father, I would probably be dead by now. I’m just trying to help her out and keep her in California. My mom moved back to Orlando and she has more opportunities here so I said she could stay.”

“How’s that working out for ya? Must be putting a damper on the lady situation.” He said as they walked into the living room.

“I have never been more frustrated in my life, if you catch my drift.” AJ said taking a seat on the couch.

“Your sister moves in so you can’t get any at all?” he laughed. “That has to suck.”

“It’s not that I can’t I just have less time and a lot less privacy.” He laughed shaking his head. “We have some rules and she watches me like a hawk and gets on my case the second I forget one.”

“I would die.” Nick shook his head laughing.

“I’m surviving. So how has everything been going? I heard the album it’s pretty good. Ashley listens to it all the time.”

“It’s been hectic and different, but I think its going good. Some time in December I start touring. It’s short but it should be fun, we’ve already started working with the band and all that stuff.”

“That’s really cool, I’m sure Ash will know about it before I do but if you’re in town let me know and I’ll definitely come to a show.”

“Yea, I don’t know the schedule I just get off when the bus stops.” He laughed. “I think I’m in LA though for something. I should listen more when the tell me this crap but whatever.”

“Well when you’re with us there’s no need to listen. That’s what Howie’s for.” AJ laughed.

Just then the doorbell rang and Ashley’s footsteps could be heard running towards the stairs.

“I got it!” she called out as she ran down the steps and to the door.

She opened the door and grinned seeing Ryan and Danny on the other side. Ryan and Ashley had been hanging out a lot over the past two months and although they weren’t officially dating Ashley was really beginning to like him and hoped to change that soon.

“Hey.” Danny waved slightly.

“Hey babe.” Ryan smiled and pulled her into a quick hug as he stepped inside. “Nice bikini. Did I mention how glad I am that the sun decided to come out this weekend?” He smirked looking her over.

“Shut up perv.” She teased smacking his arm before taking his hand to lead him outside. “A few of my friends are already here. They’re just hanging out back. Angel isn’t here yet, but she said she would be late.”

She walked past the living room not noticing AJ in there and continued outside.

“Hey!” AJ called out to her as she passed.

“You guys have met Jared before, just go out side and I’ll be out in a sec. I gotta see what he wants.” Ashley smiled and turned to walk back into the house.

“What?” she asked stopping in the walkway of the living room.

“Nick stopped by, it would be nice of you to say hi.”

“How was I supposed to know he was here?” Ashley shrugged and walked into the living room. “Hey Nick, long time so see.” She smiled and gave him a small wave.

“What no hug?” Nick teased.

“Hey. If I remember correctly the last time I tried to hug you, you were all ‘dude you need to stop invading my personal space’ ” she laughed mocking him.

“That’s because you were like eleven and a clingy little teeny bopper.”

“For your information I was twelve and was so not a teeny bopper.” She defended herself.

“Yea, you pretty much were.” AJ laughed taking sides with Nick.

“You guys suck.” She pouted.

“Just kidding, you were coolest, non teeny bopperest twelve year old ever.” Nick said sarcastically with a snicker.

“Loser, now you’re definitely not getting a hug.” she crossed her arms.

“Come on, you know you wanna.” He said standing from the couch and stretching his arms open awaiting her hug.

“Not really.”

“Don’t lie, I can see it in your eyes. You still have a soft side for me and you know it.” He smirked.

“Only because I know if I don’t you’ll bug the hell out of me for the rest of my life.” Ashley rolled her eyes and laughed shaking her head as she hugged him.

“You know that was a life long dream come true for you.” He teased as he pulled away from the hug.

“Be careful boot your own ego any more and you might not make it out the door.” She teased patting him on the shoulder. “Now if you two butt heads don’t mind I have friends waiting on me.”

“You can go.” AJ laughed. “Let me know when you guys get hungry and I’ll start the grill.”

“Will do. Nick you should hang around for a little, Angel’s coming over soon.”

“Do you know when?” Nick said glancing at his phone to check the time.

Ashley just shrugged and left the room.

“She sure has grown up since I last saw her.” Nick said glancing over his shoulder as Ashley walked out of the room.”

“Keep your eyes in your head Carter.” AJ said smacking him on the back of his head.

“I’m only human, you can’t blame me.” Nick chuckled.

“Just remember she’s the same age as your sister.” He reminded him.

“All I said was she’s grown up since the last time I’ve seen her.” He defended himself.

“I’m just letting it be known.”

“Relax bro, I have a girl and I’m not the cradle robbing type.” Nick said with a laugh.

“Just a warning for now or the future.”

“Let’s just change the subject.” He said laughing at how over protective AJ was being. “I didn’t know that Ashley and my sister were friends.”

“Where the hell have you been?” AJ laughed. “They’ve been friends for like 3 or 4 years.”

“Guess I gotta get with the program.” He chuckled. “I have an interview in an hour in LA, but I’ll stop by again when I’m done if you don’t mind. I haven’t seen Angel in a while.”

“I think she’s spending the night so come back whenever.” AJ said as he stood to walk Nick to the door.

“Thanks bro, I’ll hit you up when I’m on my way back.” He said as he walked out.

“See ya man.”
Chapter 71 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
been long enough? haha guys im soooo sorry this update took so long...to make a long story short ive been in the process of moving and I'm finally settled and have my internet up and running. hope you all stuck it out with me in my mini hiatus and i promise to never take this long to update ever again :) hope you enjoy! please let me know what you think
“The fun has arrived!” Angel laughed as she walked through the back door.

“Angel!” Ashley said excitedly as she got out of the pool to greet her. “Took you long enough to get here.”

“Sorry! I got stuck on set with Aaron, I had no choice and no ride.” She sighed putting her bags down. “I hope I didn’t miss dinner, I’m starving.”

“Nope, Alex is cooking everything now so you’re just in time.

“Hey babe.” Danny came up pulling Angel into a hug kissing her cheek.

“Hey.” She smiled and kissed him back.

“So guess who you missed earlier.”

“Who?”

“Nick. He stopped by to say hi to Alex.”

“Are you serious? I haven’t seen him in months.” She sighed with a pout.

“No worries, he said he would swing by again tonight or tomorrow to see you.”

“Awesome, so I’ve been locked away in a video shoot, let’s party it up. The cold weathers on its way and I want to make the most of the sun.” Angel laughed.

“Back to the pool then.” Ashley laughed and jumped back in followed by the others.


Everyone had just finished eating dinner and AJ was back inside cleaning up when Ryan walked in clearing his throat to get his attention.

“Hey man, need something?” AJ asked turning around to face him.

“I was just wondering if I could talk to you for a minute.” Ryan said in a semi nervous tone.

“No problem man, take a seat.” AJ said pointing towards the counter stool. Ryan took a seat and AJ joined sitting next to him. “What’s up?”

“I know this is probably lame of me for doing this, but I know about the rules that you and Ashley set up and I wanted to run something by you quick.”

“And that something would be?” AJ chuckled knowing what he wanted to ask.

“Well me and Ashley have been hanging out for a while and I was wondering if it would be ok if I could take her out sometime, like just the two of us.”

“”My sisters a great girl, and she needs someone who realizes that and will treat her right. She’s been hurt a lot and I don’t want to see that happen again.” AJ said sincerely.

“I know, and I really like her. I have no intention of being an ass like those other guys.” He smiled slightly hoping this wasn’t a bad idea and that AJ would agree.

“Well I hope you really mean that. Look, I give you a lot of credit for coming and talking to me, and you seem like a good kid. I guess it wouldn’t kill me to loosen the chain a little.” He laughed. “But just know that you better not hurt her.”

“I won’t, thanks man.” Ryan hoped off the stool to head back outside, sighing with relief.

AJ chuckled and shook he head as he got back to putting everything away.


Ryan smiled to himself as he walked back out to the pool. Ashley was with Jeremy and some friends playing in the pool. He started to walk over towards her but decided to hold off and joined Angel and Danny instead.

“Hey man, how’d it go?” Danny asked as he took a seat.

“How’d what go?” Angel said curiously.

“Ryan asked AJ if he could take Ashley out on a date.” He filled her in.

“Aww that’s so cute. What did he say?”

“He said I could as long as I don’t hurt her.” He signed as he fiddled with his thumbs.

“So what are you waiting for?” Ryan laughed at his friends’ nervousness.

“What if she says no? I mean she’s said a few times that she’s not ready to start dating again, that’s why I haven’t asked her out yet n the first place.”

“She likes you, its obvious. There’s no harm in asking. Believe me she won’t say no.” Angel reassured him.

“Maybe in a little while, she’s busy right now.”

“Stop being nervous and just go ask her out man.” Danny laughed and pushed him to his feet.

“Fine, fine. I’ll go ask.” He took a deep breath and walked towards the pool.

“Hey Ash, can I talk to you for a minute?” He said standing by the edge.

“Yea, sure hold on.” She said swimming over towards the ladder to get out of the water. She quickly wrapped herself in a towel and walked over to take a seat where Ryan was waiting. “What’s up?”

“Well I know we’re been hanging out a lot lately, and well I really like hanging out with you, so I was wondering if maybe you would like to go out with me sometime? Like just the two of us?”

“Like a date?” Ashley smiled a little.

“I would hope so.” Ryan laughed slightly.

“Well I would have to talk me my brother first.”

“Already taken care of.” He smiled.

“Really?” Ashley asked with a raised brow as Ryan nodded. “How did that go?”

“He just said as long as I don’t hurt you we’re good to go.” Ryan smiled. “So, what do you say?”

“Well you better listen to what he says, and as long as he’s already agreed then I say yes.” She smiled back.

“Really?” Ryan said excitedly.

“Yes, really.” She smiled and hugged him.

“Awesome. How’s about next weekend, dinner and a movie?”

“Sounds good to me.”


“Hey Ash, it’s getting late. Time to wrap things up.” AJ said poking his head out the screen door a few hours latter.

“Aww, it’s midnight already?”

“12:30 actually, I figured you guys were having a good time, I didn’t wanna stop the fun.” AJ laughed.

“Alright guys well parties over.” Ashley smiled. “As they say you don’t gotta go home but you gotta get the hell up out of here.”

“What a nice farewell.” Jeremy teased as he hugged her.

“What can I say, I have a way with words.” She laughed as they all headed towards the door.

“So I guess I’ll see you next weekend?” Ryan said before walking out the door.

“Yup, but call me and we’ll make plans. I’m not sure if I’ll be here or at the condo so we have to play it by ear.”

“Sounds good, I’ll talk to you soon.” He smiled and kissed her cheek.

Ashley smiled and shut the door behind him.

“I’m shot. I think I’m gona go right to bed.” Angel laughed.

“Head up, and I’ll be up in a minute I just want to talk to Alex quick.” She said as she walked into the living room to find him.

“Everyone’s gone?” he said looking up from the couch.

“Yup.” She smiled and took a seat next to him. “Thanks.”

“For what?” he said confused.

“For today, letting me have my friends over and everything…and for saying yes to Ryan about him taking me out.”

“Ahh that, well it takes a lot of guts to come right out and ask so how could I just kick him down? Besides he seems like a good kid.”

“I hope so. I think I really like him, I just hope he doesn’t turn out to be like all the other jerks.” She sighed.

“You’ll never know unless you give him a shot. Just do me a favor and try to take things slow this time. There’s no need to rush into things so fast, you’re still young, just be a kid for a while.”

“Believe me, slow is my new middle name. I have no intention of rushing into anything anytime soon. I’ve seen where it can lead me.”

“Hey we all make mistakes, as long as you learned from them that’s what matters.”

“I have. Let’s just hope there’s no more mistakes any time soon.”

“You’re bound to make more mistakes, it’s inevitable but you can’t stress about it. Just keep being a good kid and you’ll turn out fine.” He smiled and pulled her into a hug.

“Thanks.” She said with a yawn. “The sun wore me out, I think I’m gonna go to bed.”

“Good night.” He said as she got up from the couch.

“Night.”
Chapter 72 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
if you didn't notice I numbered the last chapter wrong so this is the new one and the fixed the chapter number on the last one, enjoy :)
Ashley groaned staring at the large pile of clothes that had accumulated on her bed. She sighed taking one last look at them before reaching for her phone. As the phone rand she began piecing through the pile once more, tossing unsatisfactory items into a new pile on the floor.

"Hey girlie!" Angel answered on the other end. "I wasn't expecting to hear from you until later tonight. Don't you have a date soon?"

"It might not happen if I can't figure out what to wear." Ashley huffed. "I've been through my entire closet twice and everything looks horrible on me."

"Don't over exaggerate, I'm sure not everything looks bad, you have so much to choose from." Angel laughed trying to relieve some of Ashley's stress.

"Why did I have to choose tonight of all nights to feel ugly." She whined plopping down on the pile of clothes. "That's it, I'm calling him up and canceling."

"Don't you dare! Ash, you know you never look ugly, and besides Ryan doesn't care what you're wearing he just wants to go out and have a good time with you."

"He doesn't care cause I always look nice but if I show up looking like trash he's gonna notice."

"Ok we can figure something out for you to wear, no worries. I have an idea. Go turn on your computer and we can video chat. This way I can see everything.” Angel suggested.

“Hold on.” Ashley said turning the phone on speaker and placing it down by her computer before turning it on. “Ok logging on now.”

“Ok I see you on, accept my request and we’re good to go.” Angel said through the phone.

“Ok there you are, hey!” Ashley smiled a little and waved through the screen,

“So first things first, where are you going out?”

“He didn’t say where exactly, but I know we’re going to the Grove.”

“Ok so we’re aiming for cute but casual.” Angel thought for a few moments. “It’s a pretty nice day so I would definitely go with a jean skirt.”

“I have like fifteen skirts, let’s narrow it down a little.” Ashley teased. “Oh wait, just thought of the perfect one.”
Ashley jumped from her chair and ran to her closet searching for the shopping bag she had yet to empty. She found it under a pile of shoes and pulled the bag out rushing back to the computer.

“I completely forgot that I went shopping after school last week.” She said as she sat down and opened the bag from Abercrombie. She pulled out a dark wash denim mini skirt that had some frays and tears in the fabric.

“So cute, I almost bought that same one yesterday. Ok so we now have the skirt, what about a top?”

“I bought a cute sweatshirt to go with it, it’s dark grey.” Ashley said as she pulled the hoodie. “I don’t know what I have to go under it though.”

“What about that pink shirt from Hollister that we bought together a few weeks ago, the one that has the few buttons down the front.”

“Ahh perfect! I forgot all about that shirt, and I have that light grey tank to go under that.” Her mind pieced the outfit together. “What would I do without you?”

“Walk around naked.” Angel teased. “What time is Ryan coming?”

“Six thirty.” She said glancing at the clock. “I should start getting ready soon…what should I do with my hair?”

“It looks cute when you just curl the ends a little and leave it down.” Angel recommended.

“Awesome, thanks so much hun. I need to go take a quick shower so I’m not running completely late. It’s already three.”

“No problem, have fun tonight and call me tomorrow to let me know how it went.” Angel said.

“Of course. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.” Ashley said before hanging up.

She quickly put the clothes on her bed away and laid out the outfit that she and Angel had just picked out. She studied it quickly one last time making sure it was perfect before making her way to the bathroom to take a quick shower. After she was done she quickly curled her hair and did her makeup before getting dressed. She checked the clock and saw it was just nearing six. She wanted to make sure she was ready to go when Ryan got there to avoid questioning form AJ.

When she was finally dressed she took one final look in the mirror and smiling with approval. Now all she needed was shoes. She opened her window quickly to see how the weather was and felt the air starting to chill. Looking through her shoes she decided on her black Uggs to keep her a little warmer. She threw on her sweatshirt and grabbed her purse before making her way down stairs to wait for Ryan.

“Hey Alex.” Ashley said walking into the room where he was sitting reading through some papers.

“Hey, you all ready to…” he looked up and studied her outfit quickly. “What exactly is that supposed to be?”

“What are you talking about?” Ashley looked at him confused.

“That.” He said pointing to the item in question.

“Umm last time I checked it was a skirt.” She laughed.

“That’s a little short don’t you think?” he raised a brow putting his papers down.

“Not really, there were shorter ones there.”

“Usually when you can see the pockets from the bottom of it it’s a little too short.” He commented.

“It’s not that short Alex. Besides you go out with girls who wear skits way shorter then this all the time.” She rebutted.

“Shut up and stop always being right.” He laughed shaking his head in defeat.

“But it’s so easy to win in a debate with you.” She laughed.

“Quit while you’re ahead kid.” AJ teased as the doorbell rang.

“That’s for me…gotta go.” She said quickly rushing towards the door.

“Not so fast, just wanna go over a few quick things.” He said following her to the door.

“Hey Ryan.” Ashley smiled opening the front door.

“Hey Ash, you look great…hey AJ” he waved slightly at him as he stepped up behind Ashley. “You ready to go?”

“Yup” Ashley said stepping out of the door.

“Be home by midnight, no later.” AJ said before they could leave. “And drive safe.”

“Will do.” Ryan assured him.

“Bye.” Ashley smiled and started walking towards the car.

“Have fun.” AJ said watching as they got in the car and drove off.
Chapter 73 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
yay for first dates :)
Ashley took a sip of her soda as she and Ryan sat across from each other in a booth at The Cheesecake Factory a little while later. She looked up from the table to find him staring at her with a smile.

“What?” she asked him with a chuckle.

“Nothing.” He smiled and continued to look at her.

“Why are you staring at me? Do I have something on my face?” she said immediately feeling her cheeks blush as she reached in her purse for a mirror.

“No, no.” he laughed. “I dunno I was just admiring you I guess.”

She raised a brow looking at him with a smirk.

“You just look really beautiful.” He smiles at her sincerely.

Ashley could feel the blush returning to her cheeks as a small smile crept up on her face.

“You’re too sweet.” She looked down trying to maintain her blush.

“What, has no one ever complimented you before?” he chuckled at her cute reaction.

“They usually have ulterior motives behind them.” She looked up at him with a small frown quickly shaking it off.

“Well I really mean it. My compliments come from the heart, no strings attached.” He smiled reaching across the table to hold her hand. “All I’m looking for is the chance to get to know you better.”

“That I think we can arrange.” Ashley smiled at him.

He held onto her hand looking at her again for a moment, before the waitress came over with their food. They took their attention away from each other as they thanked the waitress and began to eat their dinner.

After they finished dinner the two decided to walk along the promenade before heading to their movie. Ryan quickly glanced over towards Ashley as they walked in a semi awkward silence. Ashley stopped for a moment as the music for the fountain show signaled its beginning.

“Do we have enough time to watch the show?” she turned to look at him.

He glanced at his watch and nodded as he rested his hand on the small of her back to guide her over to a spot on promenade that overlooked the fountain. Deciding it was the perfect time to get a little closer he stood behind her wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her closer to him. Ashley turned her head and smiled up at him leaning her head back on his chest. After the fountain show was over Ryan linked Ashley’s hand in his as they headed towards the theater.

“That was really cool how they synched it up with the music and lights like that. I’ve never seen it at night before, it looks so beautiful.” Ashley smiled at him.

“Yeah, it’s a really nice show.” He smiled back as they walked up to the ticket line. “What are you up for? Scary or comedy?”

“I like both, you can choose.” She smiled as they approached the counter.

“Two for ‘The Ring’.” Ryan asked.

“How did I know you would pick scary?” she laughed.

“What?” he laughed. “I gave you the option.”

“I’m just kidding I’ve been wanting to see it.”

“Do you want popcorn or candy or anything?” he asked as they walked into the main lobby.

“I’m still full from dinner.” She smiled declining.

“Ok then let’s just go get seats.” He took her hand one more as they made their way into their theater.



“So what did you think of the movie?” Ryan asked as they exited the theater.

“I think I won’t be sleeping much for the rest of my life.” She chuckled wishing she was joking.

“It wasn’t that bad.” He laughed.

“Are you kidding me? I screamed so many times I almost lost my voice!”

“I know, I think my ears are still ringing from when she came out of the TV.”

“Sorry!” she said sympathetically. “I didn’t mean to scream in your ear.”

“It’s ok, I’ll survive.” He smiled and checked his watch. “It’s only ten, we still have a while before we have to head back, why don’t we grab some ice cream and we can sit by the fountains for a little before heading back.”

“Yum, sounds good to me.” She smiled.

The two got their ice cream and made their way over towards a bench facing the fountains.

“So did you have fun?” he asked.

“So much, aside from the being scared out of my mind.” She teased.

“I’m really glad that you came out with me tonight.” He smiled at her.

“I am too. To tell you the truth I was a bit nervous, I really don’t have the best track record when it comes to dating.”

“Well like I said before, all I want is for the chance to get to know you better, no motives nothing in it for me in the end but an amazing girl.”

Ashley blushed and smiled at him. She really was beginning to like him even more so then before.

“Ash, I really like you.” He took her hand in his and smiled at her. “I was hoping that maybe me and you could maybe date a little more exclusively.”

“As in only date each other, meaning me be your girlfriend?”

“Well yea, that’s another way to put it.” He laughed a little but stopped when he saw the look on her face change. “

“Ryan I like you…a lot. I just don’t know if I’m ready to really get into a relationship right now though.”

“Oh.” He sighed crushed.

“It’s not you or anything, I just wanted to take things slow and work up to that.” She said trying to explain her reasoning.

“It’s alright, I get it.” He looked away and stood. “I guess we should get going.” He sighed turning away from her.

“I’m sorry.” She said softly grabbing his arm before he could move further from the bench.

“It’s fine really, I understand. Let’s just get going.” He sighed.

She sighed and followed behind him back to his car.


The car ride home was awkward and silent. Ashley hadn’t meant to hurt his feelings. She really did like him, and she wanted to open herself up and let him in but she was too scared, she just wished she could make him see where she was coming from. A short while later they pulled up in the driveway of the house. Ryan shut off the car and sighed as they sat there both waiting for the other to speak.

“I guess I should get inside before I miss curfew.” Ashley finally spoke up.

“I’ll walk you to the door.” Ryan said opening his door and coming around to let Ashley out.

“Thanks.” She said as he helped her from the car.

Ashley walked up the walkway to the front door, Ryan following. She was about to put her key in the door when he stopped her.

“I’m sorry.” He sighed.

“For what? You didn’t do anything.”

“Yes I did, I kept saying how I want to get to know you better and that I’m not like those other guys and there I go making myself look like an idiot just because you turned me down.”

“Number one you’re nothing like those other guys, believe me. And number two I didn’t turn you down, I just said I want to take things slow. I never said never I just said give it some time.”

“I know, I just overreacted.” He sighed. “I’m really sorry, I understand where your coming from, and I really like you. Taking it slow is perfectly fine with me.”

“Glad to hear that, cuz I really like you to.”

“Would I be out of line if I kissed you right now?” he said hopefully.

“I don’t think there would be any objections.” She smiled at him.

He smiled and leaned in to kiss her. Just as their lips were about to meet the front door opened. The two jumped back from each other looking down at the ground as AJ stood in the doorway with a grin.

“I thought I heard voices out here.” He smirked. “You guys have fun?”

“Alex I’ll be in a minute. I was just saying goodnight to Ryan.” She shot him daggers with her eyes as he laughed and shut the door, leaving them alone once more.

“Sorry about that.” She smiled a little at him.

“It’s ok. Is the moment gone?” he asked.

“Nope.” she shook her head as he leaned in once more to kiss her.

“Goodnight.” He said as he pulled away from the kiss.

“Night.” She smiled and walked into the house, turning to wave slightly as she shut the door.
End Notes:
hope you like it, please review if you get the chance
Chapter 74 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry this took a while i had a little writers block, but i think i have the next few chapters figured out so im gona do as much writing as i can next week.
“Happy birthday!” Ashley smiled at Angel as she opened the front door to the house.

“Thanks!” she said opening the door further so Ashley could come in. “and thanks so much for coming early to help me get everything ready, I know you’d rather be sleeping this early.”

“Would I ever say no to helping you out? Even if you did get me up at seven.” Ashley laughed stepping inside. “Just so you know my help doesn’t come for free, I expect breakfast.”

“One step ahead of you, got it ready in the kitchen.” She laughed as they walked to the kitchen and took a seat.

“Where is everyone today?”

“Who knows.” Angel shrugged. “Everyone’s coming and going lately, my dad should be home in a little but Aaron and Leslie are gone with mom I think.”

“How’s everything been going?”

“No ones been home so it’s actually been quiet, thankfully. I’m kind of glad everyone’s out of town today though because the last thing I need is for everyone to experience the wonderful happiness that is Carter family.” Angel laughed sarcastically.

“What about you, are you holding up?” Ashley asked noting the sadness in Angel’s voice.

“I’m fine, it doesn’t bother me really. I just like having this quiet time.” She smiled reassuring her friend.

“Well if you ever need to just get away you know my door is always open.”

“No worries, everything is fine. It’s my birthday, time to be happy, not think about my parent’s problems.”

“You’re right.” Ashley smiled. “Open your present, it will cheer you right up.” Ashley said handing her the large shopping bag.

“Shouldn’t I wait until everyone get’s here?” Angel laughed tempted to tear through the tissue paper.

“And make everyone else feel bad becuase they didn’t get you as amazing as a gift? It wouldn’t be fair.” Ashley laughed. “Besides I can see that you’re dying to check it out.”

“Maybe just a little peak.” Angel laughed pulling aside the tissue paper a little. “Is this what I think it is?” Her curiosity and excitement got the best of her as she pulled away the paper to reveal two large gift boxes. She pulled each one out quickly placing them on the table. “I can already tell you before even opening the boxes you went overboard.”

“Just hush and open them, don’t think about money or any of that. You’re my best friend I just wanted to get something I know you’d love.”

“Fine, fine.” Angel laughed first opening the box from Juicy Couture. She grinned seeing the baby pink sweat suit. “Oh my gosh this is adorable! I’ve been wanting a new one for forever.”

“I know.” She laughed. “Those just came out I had to get them right away. I got the same one but in hot pink so we match.” She smiled and continued. “Now go ahead open the other one, you’re gonna love it.”

“If this is what I think it is you’re insane.” Angel said opening the box from Coach. “Seriously, can I admit you to the psych ward now?” Angel said seeing the purse she had been eying for the past month.

“What? I know how bad you wanted it, so I got it for you. Just enjoy it that’s all I ask.”

“Umm how could I not? It’s amazing!” She said holding it up and admiring it. “If you weren’t my best friend already you would be moving on up right about now. How did you even afford this?”

“Oh did I forget to mention my financial crisis was relieved because my wonderful brother reinstated my credit card?”

“He did? What made him change his mind?”

“A full day of shopping with me.” She laughed. “He said he couldn’t stand holding another bag or going into one more girly store and that from now on he was dropping me off and never coming back.”

“That really worked?” Angel laughed.

“Believe me it took a lot, but he finally broke down. There are limitations this time though, obviously enough to get what I need though.” She laughed. “It feels good to have money again, I felt so deprived.”

Angel just laughed and shook her head at her friend putting her gifts away before getting them their breakfast.

“Well thanks again. I don’t think anyone else will beat you out in the gift department this year.”

“Good. I’m glad you’re happy.” She smiled as they began to eat.



A few hours later the girls were setting up the decorations in the back house where the party would take place. Angel was tying up balloons while Ashley was busy with streamers.

“So whose coming tonight?” Ashley asked.

“Just the usual, Danny Ryan everyone else who always comes and I think Kaylee is bringing her new boyfriend. I forgot his name.”

“She’s already got a new boyfriend? Didn’t she just break up with Mike like two weeks ago?” Ashley laughed.

“You know her, she bounces back fast.”

“So how long have you and Danny been together now?”

“A little over five months. That’s a new record for me.” Angel laughed. “But I really like him.”

“Aww yea, you guys are really cute together.” Ashley smiled.

“So what about you and Ryan, how have things been going?”

“Good, I guess.” She shrugged.

“What do you mean you guess? You guys have been dating for a few weeks now, has he asked you out yet?”

“I told him I want to take things slow, I’m not sure I’m ready for a relationship right now.”

“You’re pretty much going out as it is, you see each other every weekend and you’re not dating anyone else, what’s the difference?” She stopped what she was doing and took a seat on the couch.

“Once you put labels on things everything gets complicated and messed up. Things are good right now, why mess with it?”

“Ash you can’t keep worrying about what can happen or how he’s gonna mess up. If it’s meant to work out it will. You have to give it a shot though if you’re ever going to find out.”

“I’m not sure if I want to find out.” She sighed joining her on the couch.

“You don’t think that if you keep putting things off he’s eventually just going to give up?”

“Do you think he would?”

“No, Ryan’s a great guy and he really likes you. But if it’s not him what about the next guy? You have to take a risk in order to get the reward.”

“What fortune cookie did you get that from?” Ashley laughed slightly.

“Shut up.” Angel laughed. “Look just think about it. I see how much you like him. What’s the harm in giving it a shot?”

“I guess you’re right.” She sighed “I just don’t want to get hurt again.”

“And it doesn’t hurt going against what you really want? I know that you want to be with him. I think it’s harder and more stressful trying to come up with what if’s and reasons as to why you can’t be with him.”

“Why must you be so smart?” she laughed.

“You help me out, I just try and do the same.” Angel smiled and hugged her.

“Maybe I’ll talk to him tonight.” She hugged her back and sighed as they got back to decorating all the while thinking about what Angel has said.
End Notes:
hope you liked it :)
Chapter 75 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
enjoy :)
A few hours had passed and the party had begun. Although she was having a good time Ashley felt out of place. All of her friends had brought their “significant others” as they called it Ryan was coming to the party but was running late and it was now more then ever that she wished he was there. No one was trying to make her uncomfortable, it was more so herself. She couldn’t help but think back to everything her and Angel had discussed earlier. She knew Angel was right, she couldn’t keep letting her fears of commitment and what could happen ruin something that could potentially be good for her. She sighed and looked around again at her group of friends happily chatting and catching up with one another. She was floating off in her own world in her mind when she felt a nudge to her side.

“You ok?” Angel asked quietly concerned. “You’ve barely said two words in the past hour, that’s just not you.”

“Sorry. I was just thinking about what we were talking about earlier.” Ashley smiled a little reassuring her that she was ok. “I just wish Ryan was here, I kind of feel like the extra wheel.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t know he would be this late, but don’t feel out of place we’re just all hanging out.”

“I know, it’s just all me, I’ll feel better when Ryan gets here, hopefully it’s soon.”

“What time did Ryan say he was coming?” Angel turned to look at Danny who was sitting next to her.

He glanced at his watch and shrugged. “He said his cousins party would be over by four but then he had to go back home before he headed over here. So I’m not sure.”

“You’re so much help babe.” Angel teased. “You’re supposed to be his best friend you should know these things.”

“I only know as much as he tells me.” Danny shrugged.

“I’m excited to meet Ryan.” Kaylee smiled from across the circle of chairs. “I think I’m the only one who hasn’t met him. I hate living so far away.”

“Well hopefully he’ll be here soon.” Ashley smiled a little. The more she thought about it, the more anxious she got for him to arrive. She really wanted to talk to him and finally push past this fear that she had.

Another half hour passed by slowly. Ashley was beginning to get anxious and worried that Ryan might not show up. She tapped her foot against the table as she bit her lip continuously checking the time.

“Would you just relax and have a little fun already?” Angel laughed placing a hand on her leg to stop the persistent tapping.

“I’m really trying, I just want to talk to Ryan. I’m sorry I’m ruining your party.” She sighed.

“You’re not ruining anything for me, I’m having fun I just want you to have fun too.”

“I will.” She sighed and began tapping her foot again. Angel grabbed her leg once more and gave her a look. “Sorry.” She laughed.

Moments later the sound of the doorbell rang through the house.

“I’ll get it!” Ashley jumped from the couch excitedly. Angel laughed shaking her head as she watched her race for the door.

Ashley quickly walked to the door opening it, relieved to see Ryan standing on the other side.

“Hey babe.” He smiled at her stepping in the door as she opened it further.

“Thank god you’re here.” Ashley smiled as she hugged him giving him a quick kiss.

“Missed me huh?” Ryan laughed returning the hug.

“I felt so alone.” She pouted teasingly.

“I’m sorry, I would have been here sooner but my mom took forever leaving my aunts house.”

“It’s alright. Did you have fun with your family at least?”

“It would have been better if you were there. I wanted you to meet everyone.” He wrapped his arms around her waist and smiled down at her.

“Well I wish I was with you too. I felt like the odd one out here, everyone else had their boyfriend here and mine was MIA.” She smiled at him knowing he caught what she had said.

“Oh really? And where exactly is this boyfriend that you’re speaking of?”

“Hopefully standing right in front of me.” She said timidly, not sure of what he would say.

“Are you asking me out?” he laughed with a raised brow, his arms tightening around her waist to pull her a little closer.

“Maybe.” She smirked. “Unless you think it’s completely uncool and then I take it back.”

“It’s actually kind of hot.” He smirked and leaned in to kiss her.

She returned the kiss and after a moment pulled away to look up at him.

“So is that a yes?”

“More like a hell yes.” He laughed and kissed her once more. “I do have to ask though, why the sudden change of heart?”

“I just realized that I was missing out on a great guy because I was too scared of getting hurt, when in reality I was hurting myself by putting things off. I didn’t want to wait so long that you’d get tired of waiting and ditch me.”

“Deep.” He teased. She smacked his arm and laughed a little before pulling him into another kiss. “And just so you know I wouldn’t have ditched you. I like spending time with you whether we’re a couple or not. I don’t want you to rush yourself because you think I’d get tired of waiting.”

“This is what I want, I was stupid to put it off for so long, but you sticking around through my nerves means a lot and shows me how great of a guy you really are. I like you, and as long as this is what you still want I want it too.”

“Of course it’s what I want, it’s what I’ve always wanted.”

“Well then hello boyfriend.” She laughed.

“Hello girlfriend.” He smiled back and kissed her again.

“Now that that’s settled, let’s get back to the party before everyone thinks I got lost on my way to the door.”

“Would it be the first time?” he teased.

“Hey! It was a big house and I was drunk, not my fault there’s a thousand hallways in that place.” She defended herself.

“Uh huh, what about the next three times?”

“Hush!” she laughed and shoved him playfully.

“Your lack of navigational skills is one thing that makes you so cute, embrace it.” He smirked and took her hand. “Now let me lead you back so we don’t end up next door.”

“You’re so mean.” She pouted with a smirk trying to hide behind it.

“Does this make up for it?” he leaned in and kissed her.

“Maybe a few more would help.” She smiled wrapping her arms around his neck as he kissed her again.

“Love birds, your presence is being requested at the party, so wrap this up and save it for later.” Angel teased form the doorway leading back to the party.

“Sorry.” Ashley blushed slightly pulling away from Ryan.

“Party time it is then.” Ryan laughed taking her hand once more and following after Angel, back to the party.
End Notes:
just so you know I will be on vacations from the 5-15 I have a competion and most likely wont have a chance to update, but I will try. But if you dont see me for 2 weeks you know why :) once I get back I'm going to be working hardcore to try and wrap this story up but no worries there will be another one shortly following ENJOY! and for those celebrating have a wonderful 4th of July weekend!
Chapter 76 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Im back :) hope you enjoy, i split this one into two parts to make it more fun so I'll do my best to get the rest up by the end of the weekend ENJOY!
Ashley groaned glancing at her clock as she heard her phone ring from across the room. It was now that she was regretting being too lazy to move it the night before. She stared up at the ceiling a few more moments before building up the strength to get out of bed.

“Hello?” she grumbled into the receiver as she trudged back to bed to lay down again.

“Hey babe. Did I wake you?” Ryan said from the other end.

“Its ok.” She said stifling a yawn. “What’s up?”

“Do you have any plans today?”

“I would have to check with the warden, but he hasn’t mentioned anything. What’s goin on?” She asked sitting up, trying to shake her desire to fall back asleep.

“My parents are having a barbeque this afternoon and they told me to invite you. I would have invited you sooner but they had all the seating arranged, apparently some people canceled so some spots opened up and you were first on their list to invite.”

“Spots opened up?” she chuckled a little. “Sounds more like a dinner with the queen.”

“My parents are a little eccentric. To them a barbeque is the equivalent of a dinner party. If it was a dinner party they would have splurged and gone for the ice sculpture.” He laughed although he was being honest.

“Are you sure I’m ready for that?” she laughed.

“It will be fine, they won’t bite your head off or anything. I guarantee they’ll say hello and you won’t see them until we leave.” He reassured her. “So do you think you can come? I will be bored out of my mind if you’re not there.”

“Hold on a sec.” She said getting up from her bed and heading downstairs to find AJ. “Alex.” She called out for him.

“Kitchen.” He yelled back.

“Would I be able to go to Ryan’s parents barbeque this afternoon?” she said from the doorway.

“I guess so, am I brining you or is he picking you up?” he asked looking up from his laptop.

“I can pick you up.” Ryan said over the phone.

“Picking me up.” She relayed.

“It’s fine with me, just remember we have to head back to Huntington in the morning, and you still have to finish that paper.”

“Geeze dad.” She teased. “It’s almost done no worries.” She said walking out of the room.

“Your welcome.” He called to her.

“Oh yeah, Thanks!” she yelled back. “Good to go, when should I be ready?”

“I’ll be there to pick you up in about two hours, is that good?”

“Good enough.” She said as she walked into her closet. “What should I wear?”

“Something sort of dressy. Like something you would wear to a nice restaurant in the hills.”

“Time to search the closet.” She laughed sorting through her dresses.

“Don’t go too crazy, I’m sure you’ll look great no matter what you wear.”

“Yeah yeah, you have to say that.” She laughed. “I’m hanging up so I can get ready, I think I have an idea what I want to wear. I’ll see you soon babe.”

“I’ll call when I’m on my way.” He said before hanging up.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Ash.” AJ called up the stairs as the doorbell rang a few hours later. “Ryan’s here.”

“I’ll be right down.” She said checking herself in the mirror once more and reapplying her lip gloss.

“Come on in, she’ll be down in a second.” AJ said opening the door.

“Thanks man.” Ryan said stepping into the foyer.

“You’re looking all dressed up, what’s the occasion?”

“Who knows. My parents are always having parties for no reason. Well then again they love showing off so that’s reason enough.” He shrugged. “I’m not into it, but gotta keep them happy if I want to keep the money flowing.”

“I’m sure it’s not that bad.” AJ laughed looking towards the stairs as Ashley came down.

Ryan looked up and smiled at her as she came over to them.

“Ready to go?” she smiled back.

“Yeah.” He nodded taking her hand.

“Be safe. Call if you’re going to be late.” AJ said as they walked out the door.

“Will do.” She said shutting the door behind her.

“You look amazing.” He said once they were by his car. He leaned in and kissed her quickly before opening her door.

“Thanks.” She smiled and got in the car. He closed her door and walked around getting in the drivers seat. “Good choice.”

“Huh?” she looked at him with a raised brow.

“Your dress. I really like it.” He laughed starting the car and pulling out onto the road.

“Thought you would.” She had decided on a simple short black halter dress that was accented with a pink belt.

“I know my parents are gonna love you.” He smiled at her as they got onto the highway.

“I’m kind of nervous, I’ve never done the meet the parents thing.” She admitted.

“Don’t worry babe. Like I said it won’t be some long drawn out thing, we can say hi and then just hang around the rest of the time. It won’t be anything too crazy I promise.” He smiled at her for reassurance and continued the drive back towards his house.

A short while later he pulled into the large circular driveway. Ashley stared up at his house in awe.

“What exactly do your parents do?” she turned towards him.

“Dad’s a lawyer moms a psychologist. Two biggest jobs in LA.” He teased “All were missing is the plastic surgeon and I think my brother will cover that one in about two more years.”

“Wow this house is crazy. It’s so beautiful.”

“Let’s get inside, people already started arriving and I’m probably gonna get death glares for not being here to greet them.” He shut off the car and walked around to let her out.

“I could have had my brother bring me if you had to be home.”

“No, no it’s all good. They knew I was going to pick you up, I just hit a little more traffic then I anticipated.” He said taking her hand and leading her up the walkway towards the front door. “Just relax and be yourself and everything will be fine. I promise.” He leaned in and kissed her quickly before opening the door.

“Wow…”she said looking around the entry way. She had seen plenty of nice houses before, but this one topped the cake. There was a huge winding staircase leading to the second story and a gigantic crystal chandelier hovering over the entrance. The floors were marble and it looked so clean she was afraid to take a step.

“I’ll give you a tour a little later, but let’s go out back and find my family.” He said slightly pulling on her arm to snap her out of her trance.

“What? Sorry.” She laughed at herself. “This place is just amazing.

“It’s ok.” He smiled at her. “I just said let’s head out back for now to see everyone and I’ll show you around a little later.”

“Oh ok.” She smiled following him towards the back.

Out back there was a huge white tent set up right off the house. Ashley could hear chatter and light classical music coming from within it. She could feel the butterflies grow larger in her stomach as they approached the entryway.

“Hey everyone.” Ryan said entering. He knew by the cars out front it was just family who was there already. He looked around at the group. “Where are my parents?”

“You know them, they’ll be triple checking every last thing until the party’s over.” Said an older blonde woman to his left. “Who’s this beautiful young woman?” she asked catching the attention of the rest of the small crowd.

“Everyone, this is Ashley, my girlfriend.”

An array of hi’s and hello’s came from the group.

“Ash, this is my Aunt Bonnie.” He said pointing to the woman who had spoken before and the continued around the table. “That’s my Uncle Scott, cousins Gina and Victoria. My sister Tiffany, her friend Jessy and that’s my brother Richie and his wife Katarina.”

“Hi.” She waved at them timidly her other hand still clutching Ryan’s tightly.

“No need to be shy, we don’t bite.” His uncle teased.

“We’re gonna go say hi to my parents, people should be arriving soon I wanna catch them before it get’s crazy.” Ryan said trying to take some of the attention off Ashley who was still visibly nervous.

“Just relax, everything’s going great.” He whispered to her as they exited the tent.

“Sorry.” She smiled sympathetically. “I just get overwhelmed meeting so many people at once.”

“To tell you the truth I’m kind of nervous too.” Ryan admitted. “I’ve never really brought anyone home before.”

“Should I feel special then?” she teased him with a smile.

“You are, so yes.” He stopped by the back door to give her a kiss this time making sure it was a little longer. “I’ve been wanting to really kiss you all day.” He admitted.

Ashley just blushed and smiled at him as he opened the back door.

“Jessy, isn’t she Jared’s sister?” she asked as they stepped back inside.

“Oh yeah, I didn’t think you had met her before.”

“Just once a little while ago, that’s why I wasn’t sure. I didn’t know your family and his were friends.”

“Better be, we all grew up together. His dad is one of the partners at my dads firm. I though you knew me and Jared knew each other.”

“I just thought you guys got along well.” She laughed.

“Jared’s brother and Richie are the same age so are Jessy and Tiff and Jared’s a year older then me. Our parents have worked together for years and before his parents got divorced we always used to go away together. Me and Jared were really close growing up but once he moved away we lost touch. I see him every now and then but we’ve kind of drifted. Were into different things now.” He shrugged.

“I guess they really mean it when they say everyone knows someone who knows someone in LA.”

“Where do you think they came up with the idea for ‘It’s A Small World’?” he teased.

“Wait so is Jared’s dad gonna be here at the party?” Ashley asked realizing how this small world could ruin her best friends secrets in just a few minutes. She had just seen Mr. Thompson last month and as far as he knew she and Jared were still an item. She couldn’t be Jared’s fake girlfriend and Ryan’s real one at the same time.

“I’m sure he will be. All the partners are always here.” He said. A quick look of horror flashed on her face. “As a matter of fact I think Jared might be coming too. I think I hear my parent’s in here, come on I’m excited for you to meet them.”

“Wait! Can I use your bathroom first? I wanna make sure I look ok.”

“You look fine, but if you want to be positive there’s one right down that hallway third door on the left.”

“I’ll be quick!” she said rushing towards the bathroom and digging her phone out the second the door shut. She quickly dialed Jared’s number hoping he would pick up. No luck, voice mail. It would have to do. “Jared, we have a big problem. Call me back ASAP- I’m at Ryan’s house and apparently your dad will be making an appearance. I think it’s safe to assume the jig is up but I don’t know what to do. CALL ME!”
Chapter 77 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
so what's gonna happen at the party? finally time to find out :)
“Ok I'm back, sorry.” Ashley said returning to Ryan after leaving Jared a message. “Just wanted to make sure I looked ok. I know you said not to be nervous, but I can’t help it.”

“It’s ok, but you look beautiful. Just be yourself and they’ll love u.” Ryan smiled and took her hand leading her down a hallway where voices could be heard coming from the room at the end. He knocked on the door slightly and slid it open poking his head in.

“Can I come in? There’s someone I want you to meet.”

“Let me call you back." Said the man as he clicked his phone off. "Come in, come in.” she heard a deeper voice and figured it was his father. Ashley tightened her grip on Ryan’s hand as he slid one of the double doors fully open and stepped in.

“Hey dad.” Ryan waved slightly as he stepped them closer to the desk in what appeared to be his father’s office. “This is Ashley.”

“Ah, Ashley. So nice to finally meet you.” His dad said standing from his desk and walking around to greet her with a handshake. “Ryan is all talk about you.”

"Hopefully all good." She smiled as she shook his hand.

"Of course! We're very happy that you could make it on such short notice. This party was planned months ago or else we would have extended an invitation to you much sooner." He apologized.

"No problem at all, I'm just happy to be here." She smiled, her nervousness somewhat at ease. Ryan was about to speak as her phone began to ring.

"I'm so sorry that must be my brother. I forgot to let him know we got here. Excuse me just a minute." She said politely and walked into the hallway making sure she was out of earshot. She knew by the ring tone it was Jared calling her and she couldn't chance playing phone tag.

"Hey." She said quietly.

"I didn't know you were going to be at the party." Jared said nervously.

"Yea well neither did I until just a few hours ago and I also didn't know that you're all one big happy family over here. What am I supposed to do if your dad sees me?"

"Arghh were in over our heads. I never should have let this go on for so long. Especially after you started hanging out with Ryan. This is one hell of a mess. Look just leave it up to me, I'll just have to figure something out to tell my dad." Jared said. Ashley could tell by the tone in his voice he was freaking out.

"We're in this together, I'm not leaving you hanging out to dry. We can think something up. You just have to keep your dad from seeing me till' we do."

"I don't know what I would do without you." Jared said slightly relieved he wasn't alone in this. "Does Ryan know?"

"No, but he'll understand. Especially if he knows your dad." She sighed. "But I have to get back in the room I'm doing the whole meet the parents thing and disappearing for 10 minutes would not make a good first impression. Text me when you’re close and I'll hide out so we can meet and form a plan. It will all work out no worries." She reassured him.

"Thank you so much. I love you more then you know right now."

"We're besties, it's my job." She said before hanging up.

She put her phone away and turned around realizing she didn't pay much attention to where she was going when she had wandered off. Ryan was right, drive her around the block and she'd get lost. She wandered down a hallway trying to remember where she had come from when a voice startled her.

"Can I help you?" A slender blonde woman asked.

The woman had similar features to Ryan and she could tell that it was his mom. Ashley took a minute to gather her thoughts but the woman cut her off.

"Party guests are supposed to remain outside."

"I'm sorry. I was looking for Ryan." She finally found her words. "I was in the office with him and had to answer a phone call, I kind of got turned around I'm not exactly sure which way is back."

"And you would be?"

"Oh I'm sorry, how rude of me." She said feeling her nerves rush back. His mother wasn't half as warm and welcoming as his father. In fact she was very intimidating. Ashley could feel her sizing her up as she waited for a response. "I'm Ashley, Ryan's girlfriend." She said extending a hand, which wasn't returned.

"Ahh yes I see." She said emotionless. Ashley bit her lip nervously not being able to gauge her response. "The office is down this hallway here all the way to the end. Knock before you enter."

"Of course, thank you." Ashley said trying to get away as soon as possible. "It was nice meeting you, you have a very beautiful home."

"Thank you, tell Ryan I need to speak with him, he can find me in the upstairs study."

"No problem." She smiled and walked back towards the office. She knocked softly and Ryan opened the door with a smile.

"There you are, I was beginning to think you got lost." He teased.

"It would be very funny if it weren't true." She said walking in. "Where'd your dad go?"

"To finish getting ready. But he did say you were a great catch and to keep you around." He smiled taking a seat in one of the chairs and pulling her down to his lap. "Told you he'd like you."

"I wish I could say the same for your mom." She sighed.

"You met my mom?"

"In my little quest to find my way back. God she probably thinks I'm an airhead, getting lost in a hallway."

"My mom just gets very intense around party time, sorry I wasn't there. I'm sure she likes you just fine." He reassured her. "In your defense those hallways are tricky."

"Don't make fun." She smacked his arm playfully. "First impressions mean everything, and I don't think mine was a very good one. Not on her at least."

"Babe, my dad likes you, my family likes you and most important I like you. My mom barely likes us most of the time. She's pretty much the female equivalent of Jared's dad."

"Speaking of Jared's dad..." She trailed off hoping he'd be as understanding of the situation as she thought. "There's a funny little story I need to fill you in on."

"And that would be?" He said curiously.

"It can wait a few minutes." She said getting up. "Your mom said she needed to speak with you in the upstairs study, probably about your poor choice in girlfriends. So go before she thinks I'm an even bigger airhead who forgot to tell you. I need to talk to Jessy anyway."

"I promise she likes you, she just takes some getting used to." He said pulling her into a hug and kissing her. "Do you need me to show you how to get back outside?"

"I think I can manage." She smiled and kissed him back.

They both exited the room and started for their destinations. Ashley walked ahead trying to remember the way outside.

"Left." Ryan called to her from the stairs laughing as she stood trying to figure which way to go next.

"I would have figured it out eventually!" She called back before going the way he said finally making it outside. She approached the tent again. She spotted Jessy sitting at the table and made her way over.

"Hey Jessy, can I talk to you quick?"

"I just got off the phone with Jared a few minutes ago." She said as soon as they were away from the small crowd.

"What should we do?"

"I told him he had two options, come clean and finally get everything out in the open or lie again and say you guys broke up. When was the last time you saw my dad?"

"Probably about six weeks ago, I know it was at least before thanks giving."

"And how long have you and Ryan been dating?" She asked.

"Officially only about a week."

"Well if I know Jared he's going to go for the lie, luckily there's enough of a gap that things could fall into place. I just wish he would finally come out to my dad. Lying like this is just stressing him out more then anything."

"He's just afraid your dad won't accept him. You know better then anyone how hard your dad is on Jared, I don't blame him."

"My dad would be shocked at first, but he'd come around. He can't keep it a secret forever, he's eventually going to explode."

"I'm sure he'll get to it, he just has to do it on his own time." Ashley sighed.

"I know, I just worry for him." Jessy said. "But at least he has a good support system, I know I've told you before but thanks for caring for him so much."

"He's there for me when I need him, it’s the least I could do."

"There you are, glad you made it out here. I thought I would have to send out a search party for you." Ryan said coming up behind her and wrapping his arms around her waist. "Just so you know mom only wanted to tell me to change my shirt."

"Did she say anything about me?"

"No, but take that as a good sign. The less she says the better."

"If you say so." She shrugged.

"So what was this story you had to tell me?"

"That's my cue to leave." Jessy said.

"It's kind of a funny story." She smiled a little trying to break the ice before she went into detail.

"So what are you going to do?" He asked curiously as she finished.

"First off your not mad are you?"

"Of course not." He shook his head. "I grew up around Jared’s dad and he's always been like that with him, putting him down, never being happy for him. Jared's a great person and it makes you ten times more amazing that you would do something like that for him. It shows how great of a person you are too." He kissed her for reassurance.

"Why do you always know what to say?" She blushed and kissed him back. "We haven't finalized anything but pretty much were gonna say that we broke up, but were still friends."

"I just hope his dad isn't too hard on him." Ryan sighed.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

An hour later the party was in full swing the last of the guests were arriving when Ashley got a text from Jared. She pulled out her phone to read it.

'Just got here already tlked 2 dad told him we broke up a few days after last dinner cuz were better as frndz c u inside hope he duznt bug u'

"Jared’s here." Ashley leaned over to inform Ryan. They looked up just in time to see them walk into the tent.

He and his dad parted ways as the entrance and he made his way over to their table.

“Hey Ash, Ryan.” He said taking a seat. Ashley could tell from the look on his face that he was upset.

“How did everything go?” She asked.

“Ehh, I mean nothing I wouldn’t expect. I’m kind of not in the mood to talk about it though.” He sighed.
“I feel really bad that this had to happen.” Ashley frowned.

“It’s not your fault. You were great enough to keep it up for this long.” Jared reassured her. “It’s all good, at least it kept him off my back for a while.”

“Don’t let your dad get to you man, he’s not worth the stress. I learned to ignore my mom a long time ago.” Ryan chimed in.

“I try, but there’s only so much I can take.”

“Well let’s just have fun and try to keep the drama to a minimum tonight.” Ashley smiled at the both of them. “I’m just happy to have you both here.”

“Agreed.” They both said.

Dinner had finished and everyone had left their tables to mix and mingle. Ashley, Ryan and Jared had managed to avoid Mr. Thompson so far but their luck soon came to an end.

“Ryan, come over here.” His dad called to him from a group of people. “You’ve barely said hi to any of the guests.”

Ryan glanced at Ashley as she stayed back with Jared and Ryan walked over.

“Jared, come here too.” His father called to him.

Jared sighed and Ashley patted his back and walked over to the group with him.

“Ashley, how wonderful to see you.” Mr. Thompson greeted her. “So sad to hear that you and Jared are no longer an item.”

“We’re still great friends though, which I’m very grateful for.” She smiled trying to keep the conversation short.

“I didn’t know that you and Jared knew each other.” Ryan’s dad chimed in.

“Yes Dave, actually your son stole her right out from under Jared’s nose.” He said with a chuckle.

“Those boys have always been competitive.” Ryan’s father chimed in with a laugh.

"You know, Jared has never been able to beat Ryan in anything." His dad turned his attention back to the small group. "I remember when they were younger they'd compete in everything they did, but my boy here always came in just under the gun."

"Gee dad, what a nice memory." Jared sighed wishing he could just hide under a rock.

"But then again I could see why she would choose Ryan over you, he's got the look he's varsity quarter back, see I always told you sports would help you win over the ladies. It worked for your brother too."

"Dad, enough please?" Jared was becoming visibly angered.

"What it's nothing to be ashamed of, you've accomplished a lot. Ryan here just knows how to get the upper hand."

“You know what? I’m sick of this. I will never be good enough for you, will I?” Jared yelled at his father, now catching the attention of most of the guests.

“Jared, lower your voice. This is no place to make a scene.” Mr. Thompson said visibly angered at his outburst.

“No! I can’t take it anymore. No matter what I do I’m never good enough. But you know what dad? I’ll never be like Ryan. I’ll never be like James. I can only be me and I’m tired of trying to hide that from you. I’ve been lying to you and hiding it from you for so long now because I knew you would never accept me for who I am, but I don’t care anymore. I can’t care anymore.”

“Jared you’re talking crazy, this is not the time or place to have a little tantrum.” His father was becoming more and more infuriated by the second and Ashley was afraid his head would explode.

“I'm not crazy dad, I’m gay.” He said simply waiting for the real explosion to occur.

Instead his father just looked at him for a brief moment and turned away, leaving him there with no response.

Ashley could tell he was crushed. She knew he wanted to break down right there. She looked at Ryan and he pointed towards an isolated area. Placing a hand on his shoulder they lead him away from the shocked crowd.

"Are you ok?" Ashley looked at him with concern.

"I can't believe I just did that." Jared finally spoke after a few moments of silence. "All my life I wondered what that moment would be like, where, how, what he would do. I wanted to believe he would accept me, he's going to hate me forever."

"He's not gonna hate you forever, he just needs some time to think." Ashley reassured him.

"Yeah think about how much of a failure I really am." He sighed on the verge of tears.

“You’re not a failure.” Jessy said joining them and walking over to sit next to Jared. “You have no idea how incredibly proud I am of you right now.”

“Jess, he’s never gonna speak to me ever again.”

“Well then that’s his loss.” She reassured him. “You are amazing and if he’s too blind or ignorant to see that then he’s not who I think he is.”

“You did something that you’ve been scared to do forever and that alone make you ten times more of a man then he’ll ever be.” Ashley chimed in.

“I don’t know what I would do without you guys.” Jared smiled at them. “I love you.” He said hugging them.

“Things will be better now. This is a giant weight off your shoulders.” Jessy said returning the hug.

“I sure hope so.” He sighed wondering how things would change for him now. He still couldn’t be sure if this was a huge mistake or a blessing in disguise, but he knew that only time would tell.
Chapter 78 by AshleyNicoleFans
Ashley yawned as she walked out of her room and down the stairs a few days later. She was happy to finally be on her winter break. Her and AJ were back in the Malibu house for the next few weeks and Denise and Tony had come to stay for the holidays. Ashley was happy to have Denise back at home. She hadn’t seen her in several weeks and was beginning to miss her. As she approached the kitchen she could hear that everyone else was already awake. Peeking her head in she saw AJ Denise and Tony sitting at the table talking and laughing. She smiled to herself and walked in giving everyone a small wave.

“Nice of you to join us.” AJ teased looking at his watch.

“It’s only eleven, that’s early to me.” She said beginning to make something to eat. Once she was finished she joined them at the table.

“All your going to eat is toast?” Denise asked.

“I like toast.” She shrugged taking a bite.

“Tomorrow you’re eating a more complete breakfast.” Denise said before changing the subject. “Tony and I are going out for a while, do you need to do anymore shopping?”

“Nope, for once I did it early.” She said as she continued to eat. “Besides I have a stupid math, science and Spanish packets to do. I don’t think most teachers get the concept of a break. I want to get them done so I don’t have to worry about them later.”

“Smart thinking. So Alex was telling me that you met Ryan’s parents and went to a party at his house, how did that go?”

“It was eventful to say the least.” She sighed.

After Jared’s revelation Jessy took him home and Ryan and Ashley decided it would be best to sneak away from the party before people started questioning them. At school that Monday Jared was still very withdrawn and didn’t say much, which for him was a huge feat. However by Wednesday he was coming around and slowly realizing his world wasn’t crumbling. Ashley felt bad for him but at the same time was relieved their little lie was over. As rude and demeaning as Jared’s dad was sometimes she felt guilty lying to him.

“Are his parents nice?” Denise asked snapping her out of her thoughts.

“His dad was really nice, his mom was kind of emotionless. Ryan said it was because of the party, she always gets stressed but I dunno I just don’t think she liked me very much.”

“What’s not to like?” Tony chimed in.

“I dunno. His parents are just like these high class socialite people and I’m no where near that. I mean Ryan isn’t anything like that either but I don’t know I guess it’s just my own thoughts getting the best of me.”

“Hunny, just be yourself and they’ll like you just fine. If they don’t then they’re not worth the stress.” Denise smiled at her. “So when do we get to meet Ryan?”

“I don’t know, I guess whenever you want.”

“Why don’t you see if he can come for dinner tomorrow night.” She suggested.

“Sure. I’ll call him later.” She smiled getting up to put her plate in the sink. “I’m gonna go start my work.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A few hours later the house was quiet as AJ walked around cleaning up a little and putting up some last minute decorations. He heard some music coming from upstairs and decided to check on Ashley.

“Whatcha doin?” AJ asked poking his head into her room.

“Working on my Christmas present for mom and Tony.” She said placing the guitar down and waving him into the room.

“Did you write them something?” he asked pulling up a chair and taking a seat.

“No I heard this song the other day and I thought it would be perfect for them so I’ve been trying to learn it.”

“Oh, what song?”

“It’s called Bless the Broken Road.” She said showing him the CD cover. “It’s by Rascal Flatts.”

“Since when do you listen to country music.” He laughed tossing the CD back on the bed.

“I listen to anything as long as it’s good music.”

“So can I hear this song or what?”

“It can’t wait a few days?” she laughed.

“I haven’t heard you play the guitar since you got it. I won’t ruin the surprise I just wanna hear it.”

“Fine but no critiques, I still don’t have all the chord progressions perfect.” She said picking up the guitar again.

“No critiques, I just wanna listen.” He said watching her intently as she began to strum the guitar.

“I set out on a narrow way, many years ago. Hoping I would find true love along the broken road. But I got lost a time or two, wiped my brow and kept pushing through. I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you.

Every long lost dream led me to where you are. Others who broke my heart, they were like northern stars pointing me on my way into your loving arms. This much I know is true, that God blessed the broken road that led me straight to you.

I think about the years I spent just passing through. I'd like to have the time I lost, and give it back to you. But you just smile and take my hand, you've been there, you understand. It's all part of a grander plan that is coming true.

Every long lost dream led me to where you are. Others who broke my heart, they were like northern stars pointing me on my way into your loving arms. This much I know is true, that God blessed the broken road that led me straight to you.

But now I'm just rolling home into my lover's arms, this much I know is true, that God blessed the broken road that led me straight to you.

That God blessed the broken road that led me straight to you.”

As she finished playing she looked up from the guitar to get AJ’s opinion.

“So what do you think?”

“Thought you said no critiques.” He laughed.

“No negative ones, but do you think it’s a good gift?”

“Mom like anything personal so you know she’ll love it.”

“I know what would make it even better.” She smiled a little.

“And what would that be?” he raised a brow knowing where she was going with this.

“If you sang it with me.” She said as more of a question then a statement.

“Its your present to them, you should do it yourself.”

“But she would like it even more if it was me and you. Besides do you know when the last time me and you sang a song together was? Like when I was 10. We always used to sing together at Christmas, I think mom would like it.”

“Well if it’s what you want I would gladly do it. I just don’t want to steal your thunder.” He teased.

“From what I remember that was never a problem.” She shot back with a smile.

“Oh so you think you can out sing me huh?”

“Let’s just get down to business. Arrange this song, compete later.” She said handing him the lyrics that she had printed out.
Chapter 79 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Sorry if theirs errors I'm out of town and wrote this chapter on my blackberry...which was a challenge for my thumbs lol but hope you like it :) ill fix any problems tomorrow when I'm home...ENJOY!
"Hey!" Ashley said opening the door for Ryan. "Glad you could come." She smiled at him as he stepped in and pulled her into a hug giving her a quick kiss. "Ohh flowers? Pulling out the big guns are you?"

"I didn't wanna show up empty handed."

"They're really pretty, mom will love them." She reassured him.

"So remember how I kept telling you to not be nervous?" He chuckled a little. "Well I've been telling myself that the whole way here and it's not working very well."

"Relax." she laughed. "My brother likes you and believe me he's the hardest one to win over. My mom is just excited to meet you and praying you'll like her food."

"From what you've told me I will be very stuffed by the end of the night." He laughed as AJ walked by the room. "Hey man."

"Flowers, for me? You shouldn't have!" AJ teased. "What's up man? What are you guys doing standing around here?"

"I'm trying to get this clunk to get enough courage to move." Ashley laughed. "He's a little nervous."

"About mom?" AJ said with a chuckle. "I don't think my mom has ever not liked a single person in her life. You have nothing to worry about."

"Told you, now come on I can smell the food and I'm starving."

"Lasagna time." AJ grinned and made his way towards the kitchen.

"Just relax and breathe and be yourself. Everything will be just fine." Ashley smiled at him taking his hand and following AJ into the kitchen.

"Hey mom." Ashley smiled as they entered.

"I thought I heard the doorbell ring." She smiled wiping her hands on a towel and stepping away from the sink and walking over to them. "You must me Ryan."

"Hi Ms. McLean, it's really nice to me you." He smiled and stuck out his hand to greet her.

"No need to be so formal, call me Denise." She smiled back. "And here we don't shake, we hug." She said giving him a quick hug.

I brought these for you." He said handing her the bouquet of flowers.

Well thank you very much, that was so thoughtful of you. They're just beautiful." She smiled taking the flowers from him. "Alex why don't you grab something to put these in and set them on the table."

"No problem mom." He said taking the flowers from her and getting to work.

"Dinner's almost ready, why don't we go sit in the living room and chat a little." Denise said leading the way. Ashley and Ryan followed behind soon joined by AJ. "Tony, here you are. Ryan, this is my fiancé Tony."

"Nice to meet you." He smiled as they took a seat around the couches.

"So Ashley tells me you play football for your school?" Denise said.

"Yeah, and basketball. I'm hoping to get picked up by UCLA or USC. They've been scouting me since summer training, I'm not sure if they'll pick me up though. It'd be great to get some soft of scholarship next year."

"So do you see yourself trying to play professionally?" Tony asked.

"Not really. I'd just rather go to school on a scholarship then have to rely on my parents for the money. They're more then willing to pay my way, but the less dependent I am on them the better."

"So what are you thinking about going to school for?" AJ chimed in.

"Not really sure yet.I still have a year to decide. My dad wants me to be pre law and my mom wants me to be pre med. I?m thinking more into physical therapy or maybe sports medicine."

"Well you seem to have a very good head on your shoulders." Denise smiled at him.

"Thanks."

"Well dinner should be ready, what do you say we move this conversation to the dining room?" Denise smiled and she got up and everyone followed.

They all took a seat around the dinner table as Denise placed the tray of Lasagna, salad and garlic bread on the table.

"Everything smells so good mom, I've missed your cooking so much. I needed a good home cooked meal." Ashley smiled as she spooned some pasta onto her plate.

"Hey I've cooked you dinner!" AJ defended himself.

"I said a good home cooked meal." Ashley teased. "Emphasis on good."

"You said you loved my chicken."

"I was being nice." She laughed.

"See if I cook for you anymore."

"Relax, she laughed. You make good breakfast does that count for something?"

"Yea, stop trying to kiss up now. It's too late, I see how it really is." He pouted.

"Oh build a bridge and get over it." She laughed as she began to eat her salad. As she thought it was over a piece of bread smacked her in the head from across the table. She looked up from her plate to see AJ chuckling and Ryan trying to stifle a laugh.

"Way to be mature." She said taking a bite of the bread and sticking her tongue out at him.

"We have a guest, let's keep the manners in check." Denise said to the two who were still teasing each other from across the table.

"He's ate here before, believe me he's seen worse." AJ defended.

"How reassuring." Denise shoot her head laughing at the two who finally settled down continuing to eat.

"This lasagna is really good." Ryan spoke up a little while later.

"I'm glad you like it. Don't be shy take more if you want." She smiled.

"I think I just mite." He said spooning some more onto his plate.

"So Ryan, are you looking forward to the holidays?" Tony asked.

"Yea, it's the one holiday I actually like celebrating."

"What does your family do to celebrate?" Denise asked.

"My whole family actually comes and stays at our house on Christmas Eve so that we're all together and we have a big dinner and an even bigger breakfast. I have a lot of cousins so its fun."

"Speaking of Christmas, I have your present upstairs. I probably won't see you until after so I want to give it to you now."

"I have yours in the car, I forgot to bring it in when I came in. Remind me to get it after we done eating." He smiled at her.

Dinner finished and Ashley and Ryan offered to clear the table. She smiled over at him once the room was theirs.

"Told you they'd love you."

"They're really nice, very welcoming, and man did I fill up on that food. It was so good."

"I know, I feel like I'm gonna burst." Ashley laughed as she handed him the last plate to go into the dishwasher. "So present time?" She said with a grin anxious to see what he had got her.

"Hmm, I dunno. How long can I draw it out to build the anticipation?" He smirked wrapping his arms around her waist and leaning in to kiss her.

"Please can I have my present?" She said in between kisses wrapping her arms loosely around his neck.

"Ok present number one." He said as he deepened the kiss pushing her back against the kitchen cabinet.

"I liked that present." She smirked trying to catch her breath a few moments later. "Funny really great minds must think alike, I got you the same thing." She grinned, hoping up so she was sitting on the counter and eye level with him. She pulled him close and into another passionate kiss.

"Is that what they call cleaning the dishes these days." AJ laughed from the entrance to the kitchen.

"I...Uhh...Uhhh...we..." Ashley stumbled for her words flustered for a moment.

"Relax, I'm just kidding...as long as it stays to that, and only that for a long, long time. Understand?" His smile quickly turning serious before reappearing. "Now if you two love birds would so kindly pull yourselves away from each other, mom would like you to join us in the living room."

"Be right there." Ashley said looking at him until he was out of sight.

"Real presents later I guess." She smiled kissing him once more before hopping off the counter and taking his hand to head towards the living room.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"Well sorry to cut this night short, but it's been a very long day." Denise said stifling a yawn a few hours later. "We really enjoyed having you over and we must do it again next time I'm in town."

"Definitely, it was a lot of fun. Thanks for having me." Ryan said standing from the couch to say good bye to her.

"Alex, don't forget we have a meeting tomorrow at eleven." Denise said heading for the stairs.

"I know, good night." He waved as they retreated towards their rooms. Once they were gone he turned his attention back towards Ryan and Ashley. "So who's up for a game of Scategories?" He said in a comedic tone with a chuckle.

"How's about we play hide and seek? You go hide and we'll come find you when hell freezes over." Ashley laughed back.

"You're so mean to me. I'm telling mom." He jokingly pouted and crossed his arms.

"Act your age, not your shoe size."

"I don't have to take this anymore, I'm going home." He said with his best Steve Erkel voice getting up and making his way out of the room.

"Good night dork face." Ashley called to him.

"You guys crack me up." Ryan said as AJ left. "Your brothers really cool."

"Ehh I guess he's a keeper." She laughed. "So is it present time now?" She said wide eyes and hopeful.

"I was kinda hoping for more of present one." He teased kissing her quick.

"After present two." She smiled and got up from the couch."Yours is under the tree." she said.

"I'm gonna go get yours." He said getting up to retrieve it from his car. "Close your eyes." He said as he came back in. Ashley did as was told and waited as he rejoined her on the couch. "Ok open."

She opened her eyes and automatically recognized the Build A Bear box. She grinned as she opened the box to pull out a teddy bear dressed like Santa.

"Aww this is so cute!" She smiled hugging him.

"There's more, take a closer look." He smiled pointing to the bear.

Around its neck was a gold necklace with a beautiful rose pendant that had a pink stone in the middle.

"Oh my gosh, its so beautiful!" She exclaimed removing it from the bear and studying it in her hand.

"One more thing. Santa always carries something special in his bag." He said pointing to the small red fleece bag tied to the bears arm.

"More?" Ashley said excitedly as she untied the bag and opened it to find a small jewelry box. Inside was a gold double heart ring. On each heart was one of their initials. "Oh my...wow. I love it!" She pulled him into a hug, kissing him.

"Good, I was nervous you would think it was cheesy." He admitted.

"No absolutely not. It's perfect. Thank you." She kissed him once more. "Ok, your turn. I hope you like it." She said handing him the gifts. Open this one first.

He unwrapped the first gift to find a framed picture of them from Angel's party. He smiled at the picture and then at her before kissing her.

"Not too girly?" She asked.

"No, this was one of the best nights. I love it." He kissed her for reassurance.

"Ok, open the other one, that's the real present." She said in anticipation, hoping he would like it.

He unwrapped the second box and opened it to find a silver and onyx bracelet and two white gold dog tags with diamond cuts. Each name tag had their names on it."

"Guess we really do think alike, huh?" She laughed."Do you like it?"

"Um yeah these are fricken sick." He said eying them before sliding the long chain around his neck. "I've been dying to get some tags."

"I know." She smiled. "I cheated and asked Danny what you'd like. The bracelet was my idea though."

"It's awesome, I've never seen one like it."

"I thought you would like it." She smiled.

"Thank you so much babe." He leaned in and kissed her. "Now if you ask me its time to get back to present one."

"Couldn't agree more." She smiled and sat on his lap before leaning in to return his kiss. "Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas." He replied and pulled her in once more.
Chapter 80 by AshleyNicoleFans
AJ sat up stretching his still sleepy muscles and yawning as he wiped the sleep from his eyes. Glancing at the clock on his nightstand he saw it was barely ten in the morning. He could smell the eggs and beacon from upstairs and though his head was telling him to sleep just a little longer, his stomach had a mind of its own. Stretching once more he got out of bed and made his way to the kitchen.

“Hey mom.” He smiled at her taking a seat on one of the stools. “Merry Christmas.”

“Good morning sweet heart.” She hugged him and placed a cup of coffee down in front of him. “Merry Christmas.”

“Thanks.” He said taking a big sip of his coffee. “Where’s everyone else?”

“I didn’t realize we were out of bread so Tony ran out to get some, he should be back any minute. Ashley is most likely still sleeping.”

“Do you need help with anything?” he asked as he finished his coffee and got up to make another cup.

“No just relax, everything’s almost done.” She said as the front door opened. “Actually, now that Tony’s back can you wake up your sister for breakfast. I don’t want everything to get cold.”

“My pleasure.” He smiled and got up from his seat waving at Tony as he passed him in the hallway.

He made his way up the stairs and knocked lightly on the door before peaking his head in. Ashley was still in bed sound asleep with the covers pulled up high. He crept over to the bed and smirked knowing it would be truly evil to wake her up from such a deep sleep.

‘Too bad I’m not that nice.’ He laughed to himself before pouncing on top of her.

“Wakey, wakey! Rise and shine!” he yelled as he landed on her.

“What the…Alex what are you doing you psycho!” she groaned trying to push him off of her.

“It’s Christmas and this is payback for all the times you woke me up.” He smirked patting her lightly on the face. “Now wakeup, breakfast is ready.”

“You’re such an idiot…” she finally got the strength to push him off. “Why must you be such a dork?”
“Because it makes life more fun.” He laughed.

“Whose?” she laughed sitting up and stretching a little and yawning.

“Is this the bear Ryan gave you?” AJ asked picking it up. She just nodded as she got up form her bed. “Aww you sleep with it, how sweet.” He laughed teasing her. “Do you hug it close too?”

“Shut up.”

“Is somebody blushing?” he smirked tossing the bear at her.

“No.” she caught it smiling at the bear a little before placing it back down on the bed.

“Someone’s got it bad.” He teased poking her.

“Do not.” She said trying to stifle her smirk.

“Just admit it.” He egged her on. “You got it you got it bad…” he laughed singing Usher.

“You really are such a dork.” She shoved him.

“Nothing to get so hostile about.” He teased. “He’s a good guy and for me to say that it means a lot. It’s nice to see you really happy.”

“It’s nice to be really happy.” She finally let her smile come out. “It’s not just him though, it’s everything. No drama at school for the most part, a great guy, me and you getting along.”

“Aww I make you happy?” he plastered a cheesy grin on. “Give me a hug.”

“Get away weirdo.” She laughed trying to push him away.

“You know you wanna.” He smirked coming at her again with arms opened wide.

“Not really.” She laughed ducking under his arms and running out the door and down the stairs.

“Come on, that was a cheap shot!” he laughed following her.

“Haha! Too slow!” she turned around and stuck her tongue out at him before running down the stairs.

“Meanie! All I wanted was one hug!” he pouted following her into the kitchen. “Is that too much to ask?”

“Yes.” She laughed shaking her head at the pout on his face. “Fine come here you big dork!” she laughed hugging him.

“See that wasn’t so bad now was it?”

“I guess not, although I think I may need to sanitize now.” She smirked.

“Ok you two, enough.” Denise laughed shaking her head. “it’s time to eat before the food get’s cold.”

“Don’t have to tell me twice.” Ashley laughed taking a seat waiting to dig in to breakfast.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

After breakfast everyone retreated to their rooms to change and get ready for the rest of the day. Ashley was just about to head for her bathroom to shower when her phone began to ring. She tossed her towel onto her bed and picked up the phone.

“Hola.”

“Hey hon!” Jared said cheerfully on the other end. “Merry Christmas!”

“Hey babe! Merry Christmas.” She smiled. “Thanks for disappearing on me all week.”

“Sorry hon, I just needed some alone time. Nothing personal.” He apologized.

“It’s all good. How you holding up, major crisis averted?”

“I’m great actually. Sit down for this one, I have big and amazing news.”

“Ready and listening.” She hoped on her bed awaiting his news, hearing the excitement in his voice.

“So I woke up this morning to find my first Christmas present waiting for me on my nightstand. Guess what it was.”

“Tell me, tell me, tell me!”

“My acceptance letter to UCLA!” he practically screamed.

“Oh my gosh! Are you serious! That is awesome!”

“Not only that, they offered me a partial scholarship!”

“That’s incredible, are you beyond excited?”

“I almost had a heart attack! I had to read it over three times and pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.”

“That’s so incredible, I’m so proud of you, and so happy that you’re staying close by. I don’t know what I would do if you went off far away like Tina. I can’t believe she’s going all the way to Texas.”

“I know, I’m gonna miss her, but at least I still have you.”

“Aww what a sweetheart.” She smiled. “We have to go out and celebrate soon.”

“That brings me to my second present and my second heart attack of the day.” He laughed.

“Do tell.”

“Last night my dad called me and asked me to come over today so we could talk, which is where I am right now by the way.”

“How did that go?” she asked nervously.

“Surprisingly well.” He said with a sigh of relief. “He pretty much apologized for always putting me down and said he didn’t realize it at the time, it was just what he grew up around and he didn’t know any better. Then he said that although it may take him some time to fully get used to the idea he respects my decisions and lifestyle and will love me regardless. I seriously think that’s the first time I’ve ever heard him say that.”

“Wow, that’s awesome.” Ashley smiled happy that things we’re going well for him.

“On top of that he brought me out into the garage and there was a brand new fricken BMW convertible. He said that I should start college off the right way.”

“Umm you better be taking me out in that!” she laughed.

“As much as I always said I didn’t want a new car I might just have to retire the Mystery Mobile and move on up.” He laughed.

“You deserve it more then anyone I know. You worked so hard in school, you should reward yourself.”

“Thanks hon. Maybe tomorrow I’ll stop by and take you out for a drive.”

“You better!” she laughed. “I’m so glad that things are going better, I missed your energetic self.”

“I’m just glad my world didn’t come to an end like I thought it would.”

“We told you to just give it some time. I’m really happy for you.”

“I know, I know.” He laughed. “Thanks for putting up with my dramatics through this all though. I don’t know if I could have dealt alone.”

“You know I’m always here for you.” She reminded him.

“And that’s why I love you.” He laughed. “Ok babe, gotta run. We’re all going out to lunch, it should be interesting, mom and Dan are coming too.”

“Have fun with that.” She laughed knowing his dad and step dad didn’t get along that well.

“I’ll call you tomorrow when I can stop by.” He said. “Tell the fam Merry Christmas.”

“Same here, bye hon.” She said hanging up and getting back to getting ready.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The day had passed quickly and before everyone knew it dinnertime had arrived. They all sat down around the table laughing and catching up on everything they had missed through the past few weeks. After dinner they moved into the living room to start opening presents. The gifts were winding down to the last few and Ashley knew it was the perfect time for her gift, she just hope it would be well received. She had worked hard on it and wanted things to go off flawlessly. Clearing her throat she caught everyones attention and spoke up.

“So now it’s my turn for your guys present.” Ashley smiled at Denise and Tony. “You guys are gonna love it, or at least I hope you will.”

She got up from the couch to retrieve her guitar and came back in the room taking a seat next to AJ on the couch. “So I heard this song and I immediately thought of you two.”

“Oh we get our own little show.” Denise smiled enthusiastically.

“And it’s a two for one deal.” Ashley laughed. “I know when we were younger me and Alex always used to sing together on Christmas and we thought it would make it even better if we sang this song together. So Merry Christmas, I hope you like it.” She smiled.

“Ready?” she asked looking over at AJ. He nodded and she began playing the opening chords of the song. AJ took the first verse and Ashley joined him for the chorus then switched and ended the song together.

“That was just absolutely beautiful.” Denise said with a few tears in her eyes. “I loved it.”

“The two of you together make a dangerous combination.” Tony chuckled handing Denise a tissue.

“Thank you.” She smiled and wiped her eyes. “I think that calls for an encore.”

“How’s about an old favorite, we always used to sing this one together.” She smiled playing the opening chords to Silent Night. AJ smiled as his memory filled in the blanks on their old arrangement and he began to sing.

“Silent night, holy night.” He began. “All is calm all is bright.

“Round yon Virgin Mother and Child.” Ashley took over. “Holy Infant so tender and mild.”

“Sleep in heavenly peace.” They both sang in unison. “Sleep in heavenly peace.”

“Well I might just have to say declare this as one of the best Christmases ever.” Denise smiled as Ashley put down the guitar and gave AJ a hug.

“Peaceful, drama free and quiet.” Ashley sighed with a smile. “Let’s just hope it stays that way, at least for a while.”
Chapter 81 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Updated 8/30/09

I put the date just in case you weren't sure which chapter you had seen last since I havent been updating this close together in a while...

enjoy :)
The week passed quickly and it was soon it was New Years Eve. AJ was busy setting up for the party they were throwing that night while Denise was out getting the last of what they needed. Ashley came down stairs to find AJ in the kitchen talking to the caterers.

“What’s up? AJ said looking away from the caterers who were busy setting up the tables for the food.

“Question…what are my chances of missing this party and going to one with my friends instead?” she plastered on a big hopeful smile.

“I’d say slim to none.” AJ said stopping what he was doing to look at her just in time to see her smile turn to a scowl. “What? This party has been planed for over a month. You can’t change plans a few hours before it starts.”

“Its gonna be so boring…why can’t I just go out with my friends?” she huffed.

“You already went out with your friends three nights this week. Will it really kill you to stay home with your family?” AJ asked.

“There’s not gonna be anyone here my age I’m going to be so bored!”

“You were excited about the party up until now, so what’s the difference?”

“I didn’t have anywhere better to be before now. All of my friends are gonna be there.”

“Well too bad, mom leaves in two days and you’re staying home to celebrate with us.”

“This sucks. I never get to do anything I want.”

“Don’t start this crap now. You’re fifteen, not five, there’s no need for pouting and whining when you don’t get your way. The party is going to be fun, you’re life isn’t going to end just because you’re missing one night with your friends. Now go upstairs and finish getting ready. Don’t ruin this night for mom by being a brat.”

Ashley just sighed in defeat and stomped upstairs.

A few hours later the party had began and as much as she didn’t want to admit it she was having fun. Although there wasn’t anyone her age there she was happy to see many of AJ’s friends that she hadn’t seen in a long time including some of the boys. Even though she still wished she could be with her friends she was glad that AJ made her stay home and spend time with people who were like extended family. It was nearing midnight and everyone was beginning to gather outside near the pool where there was a large projection screen broadcasting the ball drop.

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“I feel bad for Ryan.” Angel said to Danny from their spot on the dance floor. “He’s not having any fun at all.”

“He said he feels like a third wheel.” Danny shrugged. “I told him that’s crazy but he’s been over then texting Ashley all night.”

“I kind of feel bad about that too, maybe we should have gone to her house instead.”

“She said to come here, we offered to go over.”

“I know I just still feel bad.” Angel sighed looking back over towards Ryan. “Who the heck is that?”

“What are you doing over here all alone?” A blonde approached Ryan as he was sulking in a corner.

“Oh, hey Gina.” He half smiled at one of his friends from school.

“Why do you look so miserable, its New Years Eve and this party is rockin. Yet you look like you’re at a funeral.” She laughed a little touching his arm.

“Just wish my girlfriend was here.” He sighed and moved himself away from her.

“Who? That girl that was at Ray’s party with you the other night?” she asked confirming her thoughts.

“Yeah, Ashley.” He smiled a little saying her name. “She had another party to go to so she couldn’t come.”

“Don’t let her ruin your night. Have fun, come on come dance with me.” She smirked at him taking his hand and trying to pull him towards the dancing crowd.

“I’m good, thanks.” He respectfully declined with a smile.

“One dance won’t kill you, I’m sure your girlfriend won’t mind. She’s probably out having fun, why shouldn’t you?” she smiled at him pulling his hand towards the dance floor again, this time he agreed.

Everyone turned their attention towards the DJ booth as the music lowered and the DJ came over the speakers to announce the start of the countdown.

“We’re almost there, it’s time to welcome in the New Year so make sure that special someone is close by. Here we go!”

The crowd started counting down from ten as they watched the ball begin its descent.

“Ten…nine…eight…seven…six…five…four…three…two…one…Happy New Year!” Everyone yelled as balloons dropped and confetti flew.

Before he could even turn to celebrate with his friends Gina grabbed his shirt and pulled him into a kiss as a flash of light went off around them.

“What the hell are you doing?” Ryan yelled pushing her away from him.

“It’s New Years, you needed a kiss.” She smirked as her friend gave her a thumbs up that all went as planned.

“I have a girlfriend!” he wiped his mouth still visibly angry at her as Angel and Danny joined them having only witnessed the tail end of the kiss.

“What the hell was that?” Angel said at him angrily.

“I wish I knew.” He looked towards Gina for answers.

“Relax, it was just a harmless New Years kiss…nothing really.” She smirked at him giving a little wave and walking off to join her friends.

“I swear I didn’t kiss her.” Ryan turned his attention to Angel. “I would never do that to Ashley.”

“Stupid bitch, she’s lucky there’s too much security here or I would have beat her ass.

“I have to go call Ashley…” Ryan said and made his way towards the exit where it was quiet.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Everyone watched the screen outside as the ball began to drop. Ashley looked around at all the older couples awaiting that final number to hit so they could share in the moment. She wished Ryan could be there with her.

“Ten…nine…eight…seven…six…” she heard everyone start and decided to put her sadness behind her and join in on the fun. “five…four…three…two…one…Happy New Year!”

Streamers and noise makers went off as everyone hugged and welcomed in the New Year as Ashley felt her phone vibrate signaling a message. Anticipating it was from Ryan she grinned as she eagerly opened her phone to reveal a message from an unknown number. Curiosity getting the best of her she decided to open it rather then just deleting it. She was shocked and felt her heart breaking as she saw a picture of a girl with her arms around Ryan kissing him.

Holding back tears that were threatening to fall she quietly sneaked through the door leading back inside. She tried to hold it together as she passed a few people in the hall smiling at them as best she could. Once everyone was out of sight she ran up the stairs and slammed her door barely making it to her bed before her tears began to fall.
Chapter 82 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Updated 9/2/09

wow two from me in a week? Must be a miracle huh? lol I didn't want to keep you waiting too long.Since I'm adding this one so soon I put the date at the top so just incase someone missed the chapter before that they don't get confused.
“What the hell do you want?” Ashley said through angry tears as she picked up her phone a few minutes later.

“Umm Happy New Year to you too.” Ryan said unsure of what was wrong with her. “Are you ok? You sound like you’re crying.”

“If I sound like I’m crying would that make me ok?” she said not wanting to hear the sound of his voice at the moment. “Again what the hell do you want?”

“I was calling to wish you a Happy New Year…and to talk to you.” He said hesitantly. “What’s going on?”

“I think you know damn well what’s going on! I know about that stupid little skank you were with tonight. How could you do this to me?” she yelled as the tears welled up again.

“Wait…how did you…I was calling to talk to you about that but…” he stumbled over his words. He had no idea how she already knew about the kiss. It happened no more then five minutes before.

“Save your crap, I don’t want to hear your lies.” She said ready to hang up.

“Ash can you hear me out and give me a chance to explain?” he pleaded with her.

“Explain what? That the one time I don’t go somewhere with you, you cheat on me with some stupid bitch? Spare me the details, I can’t deal with this shit anymore.”

“It’s all a big mistake.”

“No, the mistake was me ever trusting you. Do me a favor and forget we ever happened.” She said through tears.

“Babe, you can’t mean that, please just hear me out.” His plea was too late she had already hung up on him. “Fuck!” he yelled as he almost threw his phone to the ground in anger. He stopped himself and took a deep breath trying to gain his composure, as people passing by looked at him in question.

“Yo man, what happened?” Danny asked coming over with Angel.

“She won’t listen to me. Somehow she found out before I could even tell her. Shit! You didn’t tell her did you?” he said turning his attention to Angel.

“We came right out here after you.” She shook her head. “You said you were calling her so why would I?”

“How the hell did she know then?” he ran a frustrated hand through his hair as Gina and her friends exited the party laughing and smiling at each other.

“What the hell did you do?” Ryan yelled as he approached them.

“I have absolutely no idea what you’re talking about.” Gina smirked at him.

“No, you know exactly what he’s talking about.” Angel jumped in getting in her face. “What did you and your stupid ass little friends over here do?”

“Babe, chill out. You can’t take on six girls.” Danny pulled Angel back. “And as much joy as it would give me to punch her I can’t hit a girl.”

“She’s not a girl, she’s a stupid slut.” Angel yelled the last part making sure they heard her.

“She’s not good enough for you.” Gina ignored Angel’s ever-growing temper and turned her attention back to Ryan.

“You don’t know anything about her.” Ryan said trying to control his own tempter.

“I’ve seen enough to know that you can do better.” Gina crossed her arms.

“With who, you?” he scoffed. “Listen, Ashley is the most amazing girl in the world. All of you combined couldn’t even measure up to her if you tried. I don’t know what the hell you were trying to accomplish here tonight but it won’t work. You’re stupid little attempts to sabotage my relationship just show how truly pathetic and desperate you are.”

“I’m the hottest girl at our school, you only wish you could be with someone as good as me.” She defended herself.

“Let’s go guys. I need to go see Ashley.” Ryan ignored her and turned his attention back to his friends before walking ahead of them back towards his car.

“Bitch.” Angel said making sure to walk in Gina’s way as they passed by nudging her hard with her shoulder.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Ash?” AJ called out as he climbed up the stairs. He and Denise had been looking for her since the ball drop and couldn’t seem to find her. “Are you in here?” he asked poking his head into her room. He saw her lying on her bed, head buried in her pillow.

“You can’t be sleeping already party pooper.” He teased walking in a little more. It wasn’t until he reached her that he saw her body shaking slightly. “Ash, are you ok?”

“Go away.” She said turning her face away from him so he couldn’t see her smeared makeup.

“What’s wrong?” he said kneeling down by her bed worried she was sick or hurt.

“Nothing just go away please.” She sniffled a little.

“Not until you tell me what’s wrong.” He rubbed her back. “Why are you crying?”

“It’s nothing ok?” she tried to quiet her tears in hopes he would go away.

“It can’t be nothing if it’s making you this upset. Come on what’s wrong?”

“He’s cheating on me.” She mumbled still not turning to face him.

“What?” he asked, unsure if he had heard her correctly.

“He’s cheating on me!” she said more forcefully finally sitting up. She grabbed her phone and shoved it at him showing him the picture she had received.

“Ash, maybe there’s some explanation.” AJ said seeing the awkwardness in the picture.

“Like what? She just slipped and his lips caught her?” she said angrily. “I can’t believe he would do this to me!”

“Have you talked to him?” AJ asked trying to keep her calm.

“There’s nothing he can say, I have all the evidence I need right here. I was so stupid to think he’d be different.” She sighed, a new wave of tears crashing over her.

AJ got up from his spot on the floor and sat next to her pulling her into a hug.

“Why can’t anything ever stay good? Every time I’m finally happy something has to get fucked up.” She cried into his shoulder. “Just once I wish I could actually stay happy.”

“Ash, everything happens for a reason. I can’t say what those reasons are because I don’t know but in the end there’s always a reason.”

“The reason is I’m cursed. I’m doomed to live a miserable and single existence. I gave it a shot; I let down my guard and got walked on all over again. I can’t deal with this anymore. I’m never dating ever again.”

“Kiddo, you’re only fifteen. You can’t swear off men just yet.” He laughed a little. “Look, the right guy is out there somewhere it’s just gonna take some time to find him.”

“I’d rather just be alone forever then have to put up with this kind of crap anymore. You can’t get hurt if you never let anybody close enough to hurt you.” She sighed wiping her eyes.

“Listen, nothing is ever gonna work out the way you planned, but you can’t go around carrying a huge wall. Number one, you’ll get tired as hell and number two you’ll miss out on life.”

“Stop being so damn philosophical and let me just live my lonely existence.” She wiped her eyes as her phone rang again. She glanced at the caller ID and hit the button to send it to voicemail.

“At least talk to him and let him explain himself before you jump to your own conclusions. AJ said taking the phone from her as it rang again.

“I don’t want to talk to him and hear his stupid excuses.” She said frustrated as she grabbed a tissue to wipe her eyes. “There’s nothing either of you can say to make me change my mind.”

“Can I talk to him then?” AJ said as the phone rang again.

“Do what you want, but I want nothing to do with him.” Ashley said walking off for the bathroom.

“Hey.” AJ said picking up the phone. “What the hell is going on?”

“I’m on my way over there, I need to talk to Ashley. There’s been a big misunderstanding.” Ryan said.

“She’s pretty torn up, I’m not sure she’s really in the talking mood.” AJ sighed. “Me on the other hand, I’m ready to hear the whole story. And believe me I’ll know if you’re telling the truth.”

“I wouldn’t lie to either of you.” Ryan assured him. “I’ll be there in twenty minutes. Please try and convince her to talk to me.”

“I’ll do my best but I want to hear you out first.” AJ said knowing that Ryan had to have a good explanation if he was trying this hard, but if he was lying he wouldn’t put Ashley through the pain. “Besides I’m a lot easier to convince then Ashley, she pretty much has her mind set.”

“I know, but I’m not backing down until she hears me out. I’ll see you soon.”

“Alright man, see you in a few.” He sighed hanging up the phone. He hoped he was doing the right thing, letting Ryan come over, but he knew Ashley didn’t really hate him as much as she tried to put on. Even if things didn’t work out he wanted to make sure that in the end everyone had their side heard.
Chapter 83 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
Added 9/08

I'm on a roll with these updates haha...hope u like it :)
“I’m sorry for crashing your party.” Ryan said walking in as AJ opened the door for him.

“It’s all good.” AJ said. “Hey guys.” He half smiled greeting Angel and Danny.

“Where’s Ashley?” Angel asked looking around.

“In her room.” He said turning his attention back to Ryan. “Let’s go to my office. It’s still too noisy out here.”

“I don’t want to pull you away from your party, I can wait until it dies down a little.” He offered.

“Don’t worry, everyone’s occupied.” He said pointing towards his office.

Ryan walked ahead of him down the hall towards the office as Angel headed for the stairs to try and talk some sense into Ashley. Danny stood there wondering if he should follow either one of them. He decided against it and instead took a seat on the stairs waiting for whoever came back first.

“Have a seat.” He said as he pulled a chair over by the couch. Both took a seat and sat in an awkward silence for a few minutes, neither knowing what to really say. Finally Ryan got the courage to speak up.

“She’s pretty pissed at me huh?” he sighed looking down at his hands.

“I don’t think pissed quite covers it.” AJ sat back in his seat. “What the hell went on tonight, start from the beginning.”

Ryan took a deep breath and let it out slowly as he began to retell the events of the night, from him when Gina first approached him all the way to the confrontation outside. AJ listened intently, taking it all in, and when he was finished he stayed silent for a moment.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Ash?” Angel said peeking her head in as Ashley sat on her bed notebook and pen in hand writing away.

“What are you doing here?” she said looking up not expecting to see her friend.

“I came by with Ryan.” She said hesitantly, not knowing how Ashley would react.

“Why is he here? I don’t want to see him.” She said angrily tossing the notebook to the side.

“Ash, I think you should hear him out. There’s a lot more to tonight then you may know.” Angel said taking a seat across from her on the bed.

“What’s there to hear? I saw it with my own eyes.” She sighed handing Angel the phone apprehensively twisting around the ring Ryan had given her on her finger as she awaited Angel’s response.

“Ash, I know what this might look like but it’s not what it seems. I’m the first to tell you when a guy is sleazy. I saw everything with my own eyes. He didn’t kiss her. I wouldn’t choose his side over yours if it weren’t true and you know that.”

“It’s right there. How can you tell me he’s not kissing her?” she said angrily.

“Let me start from the beginning.” Angel sighed as she began to recall what happened at the party.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“That stupid bitch.” AJ said slightly frustrated as Ryan finished retelling the night’s downward spiral. “So Angel and Danny were there the whole time and saw the whole thing.”

“Everything. I would never do something like that, especially not to Ashley. I was miserable there without her.”

“Well hopefully if she hears it come from everyone she’ll believe you.” He sighed. “I’m just not sure if she’s ready to talk to you yet.”

“I don’t want this to drag on, the more she has time to think about it the more she’ll hate me.” He rubbed his head in frustration.

“I don’t think she hates you, she’s just upset. I’m sure Angel’s explained things already, but let me go talk to her and try to convince her to see you.” He said standing up from his chair. “Wait in the hallway and I’ll come get you.”

AJ walked out of the room and Ryan followed, stopping at the stairs as AJ made his way to Ashley’s room.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Why do people hate me so much?” she said tears welling up in her eyes as Angel finished telling her what really happened. “What did I ever do to anyone?”

“Some people are just jealous, low life bitches who only feel good about themselves when they bring others down.” Angel sighed moving next to her, placing a comforting arm around her shoulder. “If it makes you feel any better Ryan told her off good.”

“He did?” she wiped the tears from her eyes a little smile fighting its way through her sadness.

“He told them that you were the most amazing girl in the world and no matter how hard they tried none of them could ever compare to you. Then he called them desperate and pathetic.” Angel said knowing it would make her feel better.

“Even still why does it always have to be me? Can’t they all find someone else to bother? All I’m trying to do is live my life and be happy, why do people have to keep fucking it up?” she said anger not letting go as someone knocked on the door.

“Can I come in?” AJ asked poking his head in.

“Yea.” She sighed wiping her eyes with a tissue.

“I’m guessing Angel has filled you in on everything.” He said as she just nodded. “So do you think you’re up for talking to him?”

“I don’t know…” she said nervously now feeling more stupid then angry for acting the way that she did. She should have known he was better then that but her insecurities got the best of her.

“Just talk to him. I think you guys just both need to talk it out and work through this.” Angel chimed in getting off of the bed. “You know you want to.”

“Fine.” She sighed taking a deep breath. “Tell him he can come in.”

“Will do.” Angel smiled and pushed AJ out of the room signaling to Ryan that it was ok to enter.

“Thanks.” He said as he passed them on the stairs. He timidly poked his head into her room, not sure what to expect. “Hey.”

“Hi” she said just as nervous.

He stood in the doorway for a few moments as they stayed in awkward silence not sure of how to break the ice.

“You can come in.,” she said still fairly quiet.

“Sorry.” He said nervously sticking his hands in his pocket as he walked further into the room. He stood several feet away from her, leaning against her dresser, still unsure of what was going through her mind. After a few more moments of silence they finally spoke.

“I’m sorry.” They both blurted out at the same time, laughing a little afterwards.

“You have nothing to be sorry for.” Ryan said mustering up the courage to get closer to her as he took a seat on her bed facing her.

“Yes I do. I acted like a total jerk. I jumped to stupid conclusions and had absolutely no trust in you. I should have known you better then that.” She apologized a few tears escaping her eyes.

“Babe, I would never hurt you like that. You mean the world to me and I would never want to see you this upset, especially if I was the one causing the pain.” He said wiping her tears and pulling her into a hug.

“I know. I just let my imagination get the best of me.” She sighed. “I’m sorry.”

“There’s no need to be sorry, I understand where you’re coming from. I know you’ve been hurt in the past but I need you to know that I would never cheat on you.” He reassured her. “I wasn’t sure if I should tell you this, but I need you to know.”

A look of nervousness came over her face, worried of what was coming next.

“I know this may sound crazy and I don’t expect you to say anything in return but the more and more time we spend together the stronger my feelings for you get. I never felt like this before and it scares me just a little bit, but I know it’s right, because it’s you.”

Ashley looked at him with confusion as he rambled on.

“What I’m trying to get at is I love you.” He said anxiously awaiting her reaction.

Ashley swallowed the lump that had formed in her throat as she thought over what Ryan had just said. It had been a long time since she heard those three words and just the idea of love brought butterflies to her stomach. She went to speak but couldn’t find the words.

“It’s ok.” He smiled at her. “I’m not expecting you to say it back, I just needed to get it off my chest.”

“Why do you always know the perfect thing to say to make me smile?” she said feeling her cheeks flush. The more and more she thought about the idea of possibly loving him the more scared she got. Her thoughts were filling with apprehension and fear when Ryan snapped her back into reality.

“So are we ok?” he asked hopefully.

Ashley didn’t answer and just looked down at her hands.

“Babe, what’s going through your mind?” Ryan asked wanting to hear her out. He knew her not answering wasn’t a good thing.

“It’s just…” she paused trying to gather her thoughts. “I don’t know if I can deal with this.”

“With what?” he asked confused.

“All the drama that comes with being in a relationship. I really like you and I love spending time with you. But all this, the stupid people who try to bring me down, bring us down, I don’t know if I can handle it.”

“No one should matter but us. We’re here to help each other get through those times.” He took a breath and thought for a moment. “Is it because of what I told you?” he said nervous that he had moved things too fast.

“No, not at all. Ryan I can’t lie, my feelings for you are really strong. Is it love? I’m not one hundred present sure, but it feels like it is.” She confessed. “But that scares me. I didn’t expect to fall for you so hard or so fast.”

“Me either, but shouldn’t that count for something?” he asked.

“It does, you mean so much to me and I love having you around but I have to make sure that in the long run this is what’s best for me.”

“So are you saying you want to break up?” she could see the sadness in his eyes and wished she could explain what she was feeling without hurting him.

“I just…I need some time to think.” She sighed finally getting the courage to look him in the eyes. “I’m not saying I want to break up. I’m just saying I need some space and some time to think things over, and to make sure this is what I really want.”

“And if it isn’t?”

“Let’s not think like that.” She took his hand in his and pulled him into a gentle kiss. “Just give me some time, ok?”
Chapter 85 by AshleyNicoleFans
Author's Notes:
sorry it took a while but enjoy!
-Four Months Later-

Ashley and Angel sat side by side in a salon reading through magazines as they got their hair done.

“So what are you ladies getting all dolled up for?” The hairdresser who was curling Ashley’s hair asked.

“It’s my birthday.” She smiled a little looking up from her magazine.

“Oh well happy birthday.” She smiled back. “How old are you going to be?”

“Sixteen.”

“Oh well that’s a special year, you having one of those huge blowouts?”

“Nah.” She shrugged. “At first I was going to, but then I realized there weren’t many people that I wanted to invite. No one here in LA really knows the meaning of drama free and I just wanted to have a good day, so I’m just going to dinner with my best friend and keeping it nice and simple.”

“Yeah, it was our resolution to avoid drama at all costs this year.” Angel chimed in.

“Well that’s a good thing. Those big parties are all about showing off anyway. You never really get to enjoy them with all the hoopla.” The older woman blowing out Angel’s hair chimed in. “My daughter had one a few years ago, nothing too extravagant, but she said at the end of it she had so much to do to make sure the night went off perfect that she really forgot to sit back and celebrate.”

“Yeah, it’s better this way.” Ashley smiled as the salon owner’s young daughter approached them and tapped Ashley on the arm. She turned and smiled at her as the girl handed her a flower.

“Aww thanks, is this from you?” she laughed a little.

“The boy told me to give it to you.” She giggled before running back to the front counter.

Ashley smiled as she turned over the small card attached to the rose.

Hey babe, Hope your having a fun day being pampered with Angel. I snuck in and took care of your bill, just one of your presents. I can’t wait to see you later. Love you.

“What’s it say?” Angel asked. Ashley removed the card and passed it over to her so she could read it.

“Whose that from?” her hairdresser asked curiously.

“My boyfriend.” Ashley smiled with a slight blush.

“Aww wanna trade? Ryan is so cute.” Angel laughed handing her the card back.

“No way! He’s all mine.” Ashley laughed.

It took Ashley no time at all after the New Years Eve incident to realize that she didn’t want to give up her relationship with Ryan just because she was scared of being hurt. He had barely even made it home that night when she asked him to come back so she could apologize. Since then their relationship had been going strong and she couldn’t be happier. Of course there were still haters, but she was getting better at ignoring them.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“So have you gotten any presents from AJ yet?” Angel asked as they girls got dressed back at her house.

“Nope.” She shrugged.

“Do you think he got you a car?”

“I was hoping for one, but my mom was kinda dead set against it, or at least a new one. She gave me a big lecture about how a car is a huge responsibility then she started with the whole statistics show and after that I kind of drowned her out.” Ashley laughed.

“So she doesn’t want you to have a car at all or just not a new one?”

“I don’t know she kept changing her mind First no car then maybe a sued one to get used to. I don’t think she realizes that I drive all the time in Alex’s car. It’s not like I haven’t practiced or passed my test. I think if California says I’m fit to drive that should mean something.” Ashley laughed. I guess sometimes she just doesn’t see that I’m not a little kid anymore.”

“Oh well I’m sure if he didn’t get you a car he’ll get you something good anyway.”

Ashley and Angel had just finished touching up their makeup when the doorbell rang.

”Let the birthday celebration commence.” Angel grinned and slipped on her heels before heading to the door.

“You’re such a cornball sometimes.” Ashley shook her head laughing as she put her own shoes on.

“Hey guys.” Angel smiled and greeted Danny and Ryan at the door.

“Hey babe.” Danny said walking inside followed by Ryan. “You guys ready to go?”

“Just about.” Ashley said smiling walking into the foyer.

“Happy Birthday babe.” Ryan said as he came over to her with one hand behind his back. “You look amazing.” He leaned into to kiss her quickly before revealing a bouquet of pink roses.

A smile crept up on Ashley’s face as she took the flowers from his hand and pulling him into a hug.

“Come into the kitchen with me, let’s put these in water.” She took his hand leading him into the kitchen. She placed the flowers on the counter and wrapped her arms around his neck pulling him into a kiss. “Thank you for earlier.”

“Well worth it. You look great, not like you donE2t always.” He smiled and kissed her back.

“Why are you so amazing?” she smiled at him as he wrapped his arms tighter around her waist.

“I just love to see you smile.” He said and kissed her again. “And you know what else?”

“What?”

“I Love you.” He leaned in and whispered in her ear before pulling her into another kiss.

“Awwww.” Angel said interrupting them from the doorway. “As sickeningly cute as you guys are let’s hurry this up. We’ve got reservations.”

“Love you too.” She mouthed to him with a smile as she pulled her self away from him taking his hand to follow Angel and Danny out of the house.

“I feel kind of bad for leaving Alex at home. He looked upset that I chose to come out with you guys tonight instead of hanging with him.” She said as they got in the car.

“I thought you were having like a family thing next weekend.” Angel said.

“We are, but I dunno I guess he just wanted me to be home tonight.” She shrugged as they pulled off. “So where are we going?”

“You’ll see when we get there.” Angel laughed as Danny pulled onto the main road.

A short while later they pulled into the parking lot of City Walk.

“Now that were here can I know where20we’re going?” Ashley laughed as they got out of the car.

“You can never wait for surprises can you?” Angel shook her head as they headed towards the main entrance and in the direction of the restaurant.

“No, I hate not knowing what’s going on.” She followed them looking around wondering where they were headed.

“If it makes you happy we’re going to that new Mexican place Camacho’s.” Ryan laughed taking her out of her misery.

“Oh really!” she said excitedly.

“Here we are.” Angel said as they got to the front of the restaurant.

Ryan held open the door and everyone walked inside. Angel gave their name to the hostess and she led them towards the back of the restaurant. They rounded a corner and Ashley stood in shock as a large table of her closest friends and family greeted her.

“Surprise!” they all yelled in unison.

“Oh my gosh, what are you guys doing here?” she ran over to greet Denise and a few others she hadn’t seen in a long time.

“Did you really think we would let you not go all out just a little on your birthday?” AJ laughed giving her a hug.

“I can’t believe all you guys are here!” she hugged her uncle and some other family. “When did you get here?”

“Yesterday.” Denise smiled. “We’ve been hiding out.”

“Wow this is so great. I’m so happy you guys are here.” She said excitedly as everyone settled down and took a seat ready to eat and enjoy the night together.

The night went on and everyone enjoyed a great meal. The waiters came out with desert followed by a Mariachi band and everyone joined in singing Ashley ‘Happy Birthday.’ Things were winding down and AJ knew the night would be coming to an end so he knew it was the perfect time to give Ashley her present.

“Can I have everyone’s attention please?” AJ said standing up at the table, once everyone quieted down he continued. “I just wanna thank everyone for coming out tonight to celebrate Ashley’s birthday.”

He smiled over towards the other end of the table where she was seated and waved her over. She made her way to him before he continued.

“Ok so this may sound cheesy but too bad.” He laughed. “I just want to let you know how proud I am of you. When you first moved in with me, I’ll admit it I was scared things wouldn’t work out. I thought after everything we’d been through we would never be able to really get along like we used to. Now I know not everything is perfect, and we still argue like crazy and that that will never change.” He laughed while everyone chuckled. “But I think it’s safe to say we’ve made it through the storm.”

Ashley smiled and nodded in agreement.

“Now mom may kill me for this, but it’s your sixteenth birthday and you beyond deserve it.” He said picking up a small box. “You’ve really turned things around these past eight months and I wanted to get you something that reflected just how proud of you I am.”

Ashley bit her lip in anticipation as he handed her the box. She tore off the wrapping paper and quickly opened the box. She squealed in excitement as she pulled a set of car keys from the box. Under the keys was a folded up paper. She pulled it from the box and unfolded it to reveal a picture of a light pink VW Beetle Convertible.

“Holy crap! Are you serious?” she said excitedly.

“”Like I said, you deserve it.” He smiled as she excitedly hugged him.

“Oh my god it’s perfect! You’re the best!” she said unable to wipe the smile off her face.

“And let me just add I looked pretty damn cool driving that thing home earlier.” He laughed.

“Speech! Speech! Speech!” everyone chanted at Ashley.

She laughed a little and took a breath trying to think of what to say.

“I’m so happy that I’m spending my birthday with all the people I love the most. It means so much that you’re all here with me. You all have been with me thought think and thin and helped me get through some of the worst times in my life. I think I can safely say I have the best support system in the world.” She smiled at everyone and turned her attention to Denise and Alex. “Mom, Alex you’ve seriously the best family I could ever ask for. I know living with e has been nowhere near easy but I’m so glad you guys never gave up on me, even when I wanted to give up on myself.” She took a deep breath and continued. “When my mom died I though I had nothing else to live for, but you guys helped me push though and I don’t think I can ever repay you or be able to show you how much I appreciate all that you’ve done for me.”

She wiped some tears that were falling from her eyes. “Alex, I especially want to thank you. I know you didn’t have to take me in, and I know that it’s been a big change for you, but thanks for giving me a chance. I’m so glad things are back to being good because I don’t know that I would do if I didn’t have you in my life. I love you so much.”

“I love you too kiddo.” He smiled and pulled her into a big hug.

“I might just have to continue on with this little toast we have going.” Denise said smiling at the two. “Ashley you are growing into such a wonderful, talented and intelligent young lady. I am so happy to see you grow and challenge yourself everyday. You’ve been through a lot and I think the testament to just how strong you are is that you’ve pulled through and been able to still find the light at the end of the tunnel. Although I miss having you around I know that you and Alex are helping each other in ways no one else could. I love the both of you so much and am proud to call you my children. You are both inspirations to me and I can’t truly show with words just how proud I am of the both of you. We’ve all come a long way in the past four years and I see nothing but great things for all of us in the future. So with that being said let’s toast.” Denise said holding up her glass with a smile. “Here’s to the future.”

“To the future.” Every joined in.”
End Notes:
this is the last chapter...next one is a thank you

Please take a moment to review and let me know what you thought about the story! I would really appreciate your overall thoughts on the story :)
Thank You! by AshleyNicoleFans
I just wanted to take a few moments to thank all my readers for sticking with me for so long. This story took almost a year to complete and I thank you all for continuing to support it and read.

Although this is the last chapter of A New Beginning, it's not the end of the story. I do have plans for a sequel which I will be starting soon. It's called 'Happily Never After' and is slightly different in context then this story was. I really hope that you will continue to follow along with me and support this new endeavor. If you take a look under the Series category in the description you will see it now links to a series page where you can see a banner for the new story, a description will be up there soon as well. I am planning on starting writing for this new story in the next few days and plan to begin posting at the start of October.



Lastly, I just wanna send a huge shoutout to Lenni for always reviewing and helping me out when I felt stuck. Thankyou as well to Krystle, Tina, Mary and Hazel_85 for taking the time out to review numerous times :) It meant a lot to hear from you and see how you were feeling and know your thoughts. I really appreciate it.
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