We’d just finished the tour and were now at home. You wouldn’t believe all the fan letters addressed to AJ. It was AMAZING! They’d all accumulated on his table and I was now pushing them all into bags for him to go through later on when he woke up. When the table was clear I sat down with a cup of coffee and some toast with the radio on, down low so it didn’t wake him, although the house was so big I didn’t really have to worry. I was just about to go back upstairs to have a shower when the phone started ringing. I raced over to it and picked it up.

“Hello?” I said cheerily

“Rhianna Scartlet McLean. Just WHEN did you plan on telling me you were engaged, let alone married?” Came my good friend, Jennisen’s voice

“Well, last time I checked we weren’t exactly speaking every day” I said with a little chuckle

“I’m in town, get dressed we’re going shopping” She said

“Oh, are we now” I said

“Yes. We have A LOT to catch up on” She said

“Alright give me an hour” I said

“Done” She said

“Where are you staying? I’ll pick you up” I said

“With Luca” She said. Luca was our friend from high school and I hadn’t spoken to him for as long as I hadn’t spoken to Jennisen.

“I’ll see you in an hour” I said

“Ok, buh bye” She said. I hung up and went upstairs and into the bedroom. I saw AJ on his back and went over to watch him. As I got closer he turned his head and smiled at me.

“Hey” I said sitting beside him on the bed

“Hey baby. Who was on the phone?” He asked sleepily

“Jennisen” I said with a smile

“How’d she get the number here?” He asked puzzled

“Mom probably” I said laughing

“Oh, yeah” He said and rolled onto his side, facing me

“I was thinking we could get some of your stuff today” He said

“I said I’d go shopping with Jenn” I said to him

“Aww can I come?” He asked

“Of course” I said bending down and kissing his head

“I’m gonna go have a shower, there’s fresh coffee on the counter” I said to him

“Thank you” He smiled. I smiled back and looked at him for a minute before standing up and going into the bathroom.

Chapter Two

I stripped off and was quick to realize that something was wrong. My period was due last week and I still hadn’t got it. I told myself not to panic that it was probably because of the stress of the tour. I got in the shower and thought about it some more. Again I told myself that it was from the tour. When I got out I managed to keep a neutral look on my face so I wouldn’t have to tell AJ yet. I went into the bedroom and saw AJ on the phone laying on the bed. He smiled at me and I forced myself to smile back. Although it was the beginning of Spring it was still a little cool so I wore my baggy jeans and my AC/DC top. I brushed my hair quickly and went down stairs, sitting in the living room and turning on the TV. I was watching cartoons when AJ came down dressed and ready to go.

“What’s up Rhia? You look a little worried” He said leaning over the couch

“It’s nothing” I said turning my head and kissing his cheek.

“Are you sure? Cos if something troubling my wife, I’d like to know” He said

“I’m fine Alex, I swear” I said laughing. He smiled and stood up.

“You ready?” he asked

“Uh huh” I said also standing up

“Are you drving?” He asked

“I sure am” I said. He tossed his car keys at me and I grabbed my bag from the couch beside me and followed him out the door.

“I put all your fan mail in bags, they’re in the study” I said as he locked the door

“Thanks, was there any for you?” He asked

“I didn’t see any” I answered

“Aww” He said. I just smiled and shrugged.

“I was thinking” He started

“Whoa, don’t hurt yourself babe” I answered

“Haha. I’m serious” He said

“I’m sorry” I said and glanced at him. He shook his head but had a smile on his face

“I was thinking that since we’re having a break and doing a new album we could try for a baby next year” He said

“Alex, having a baby is a big thing” I said as my stomach tightened

“I know but I’ve thought about it a lot and I just want a family with you” He said

“But you’ll never be home” I said turning down a street

“Neither will you and the baby cos you’ll be with me” He said

“Pregnant women can’t fly” I said

“We’re only doing a US tour, we could probably just travel in the bus” He said

“You’re really serious about this aren’t you” I said

“Yeah” He answered

“Ok” I said softly.

Chapter Three

We’d picked up Jennisen and I introduced them to each other, now we were cruising the car park looking for a parking space.

“There’s one” Jenn said from the back seat pointing over my shoulder. I saw the one she was talking about and pulled into it slowly. Just as we got out of the car AJ’s phone started ringing.

“Hello?” He said and paused, nodding. I took Jenn by the arm and started walking.

“Aren’t we gonna wait for AJ?” She asked

“I need to tell you something” I said

“What is it?” She asked. I glanced behind me and saw AJ trailing us, he was a fair way back though.

“I think I’m pregnant” I said

“Wow that’s great” She said

“No, no it’s not, Alex doesn’t want a baby until next year” I said

“I’m sure if you found out for sure and told him he’d be happy, he doesn’t seem to be one that plans much” She said

“What if he wants me to get rid of it?” I said

“Reese, he doesn’t strike me as the type that would be that shallow. Nick maybe but not AJ” She said

“I guess” I said

“Don’t stress, make an appointment at the doctor get a test done and confirm it and Than you can start thinking about AJ” She said

“You’re right” I said as we stopped and waited for AJ. When he reached us he told us that Nick and Howie were on their way and could we meet them at the food court in 20 minutes. As we waited AJ and Jenn had started talking about Drake her nearly 2 year old baby boy.

“When Rhia and I have a baby I’d like it to be a baby girl. I’ve always wanted to name my first girl Scarlet, even before I meet Rhia, but even more so now because she means everything to me” He said. I couldn’t help but smile.

“Oh that is so sweet, what do you think Reese?” She asked me

“Scarlet is nice. But I like Donna Bella” I said with a half smile

“Donna Bella, it sounds Italian” AJ said

“It is. It translates to Beautiful Woman” I said

“Wow, that’s clever” Jenn said

“Donna Bella is nice” AJ said nodding

“Donna Bella Scarlet McLean” Jenn said with a grin. AJ and I looked at each other

“That sounds perfect” He whispered. All I could do was nod.

“We’ll name our first girl Donna Bella Scarlet” He said. I nodded again and he gave me a quick kiss.

“You guys are so cute together” Jenn gushed with a sigh

Chapter Four

“Try living with them for 6 months” Came Howie’s voice from behind us. I turned and hugged him.

“How ya doin Reese?” He asked

“I’m Good. Nicky! We need to talk so badly” I said and flung myself on Nick

“What about girlfriend?” He asked me as he hugged me back

“Stuff” I said. I turned and saw Jenn staring intently at Howie who was talking to AJ.

“Oh D, Nick this is my friend Jennisen. Jenn this is Howie D and Nicky C” I said Nick stuck his tongue out at me and I just grinned.

“It’s lovely to meet you” Howie said shaking Jenn’s hand

“You too” She murmered still gazing at him. I nudged AJ and he chuckled.

“Howdy” Said Nick Also shaking her hand. She just smiled at him.

“Well let us all go shopping” AJ said taking my hand

“I need Reese to help me pick out a necklace for Aimee, so can I borrow her for 20 minutes?” Nick asked him

“Aww, I guess so, but I want her back in one piece” AJ said letting me go

“I promise” Nick said rolling his eyes.

“Look after Jenn” I said nudging Howie

“Oh you bet I will” He grinned. I laughed and leaned over to kiss AJ’s cheek as Nick started dragging me off. When we’d gotten through the food court Nick stopped.

“What did you wanna talk about?” He asked

“I think I’m pregnant” I said taking a breath

“Oh, geez that’s deep” He said

“Yeah” I answered

“Wanna go get a test?” He asked

“I’m not sure how far along I’d be” I said

“Well when did you and Jay last do it?” He asked

“God it could be anytime between today and 3 weeks ago” I said

“We’ll go get a test than, come on” He said

“What if someone see’s us?” I asked

“Meh” He answered

“Nicky” I said “You are an amazing guy you know that?” He just smiled at me and guided me into a pharmacy.

“Can I help you at all?” Asked an older guy with a kind smile

“Yeah we’d like a home pregnancy test, please” Nick said confidently and I got the feeling he’d done this a few times before

“Sure, right this way” The guy said. Nick and I followed him over and stopped at a row of kits. Nick scanned them.

“We’ll take the best” He said

“This one here it’s $39.50” The guy said

“That’s ok, we’ll take it” Nick said The guy nodded and took it to the counter, wrapping it up and putting it in a plastic bag. Nick paid, smiled and we left.

“I’ll hold on to it for you and you come over tonight ok?” He asked

“Ok, Alex will probably wanna come” I said

“We can tell him that we’ve planned a movie/catch-up night just the two of us” He said. I nodded. He gave me a quick hug and we ducked into the jewlers. He asked about necklaces and the girl serving us showed him. I told him which ones I liked and he settled on a 9crt gold chain with an ‘A’ charm with diamonds in it. He paid and got the bag and than called AJ to see where they were.

“They’re looking at toys” Nick said with a laugh when he’d hung up.

Chapter 5

As we got closer I heard AJ talking about how much he wanted kids and a little bit of relief swept over me. Maybe he won’t mind if I’m pregnant I thought and smiled. I walked up to him and he wrapped his arm around me, smiling.

“You get it?” he asked

“Uh huh, it’s really pretty too” I said

“I really like Aimee” Nick gushed

“Look Reese isn’t this gorgeous?” Jenn said holding up a plush cow thing. I laughed and took it off her.

“Yeah it’s kinda cute” I said holding it up

“Why are we looking at toys?” Nick asked with a grin

“Just getting an idea about what to buy next year” AJ shrugged

“So ya’s are gonna try have a baby next year?” Nick asked

“Yeah, we even have a name if it’s a girl” AJ said

“What?” Howie asked tearing his eyes away from Jenn

“Donna Bella Scarlet” I said with a smile

“Wow, that’s pretty” Nick said

“Alex, Nick asked me to go to his place tonight for a movie/catch up night, is that ok?” I asked

“Of course it is, you don’t have to ask” He said kissing my cheek. I smiled and touched his face gently.

“Reese, come look at his” Jenn called from down the aisle. Howie was watching her. I smiled at AJ again and jogged down the aisle to where Jennisen was holding another plush toy, it was a dog.

“Aww that’s so cute” I said stroking it

“I’m gonna buy it” Jenn grinned. I laughed as she tucked it under her arm.

“Did you tell Nick?” She asked

“Uh huh” I said

“And that’s why you goin over to his place tonight?” She asked

“Uh huh” I said again

“Is that a pregnancy test in the bag?” She asked.

“Yep” I said

“Howie’s hot” She grinned at me. I laughed.

“Ask him out” I said

“Hell no!!” She exclaimed.

“Oh come on, I can see the way he looks at you” I said to her

“You think he’d say yes?” She asked

“If he doesn’t he’ll have me to answer too” I grinned. She laughed and pushed me backwards playfully

“So you and AJ look happy together” She said as we wandered down the aisle and up the next, looking at all the toys and teddy bears.

“We are. I love him so much” I said with a smile

“And it looks like he loves you just as much” She said nudging me a little

“I just hope that if I’m, you know, that he’ll want to keep it” I said quietly

“By the way he talks about having a baby, I don’t think he’ll mind much if it’s a little early” She said with a alugh

“Yeah your right” I said also laughing. I heard nicks voice in the aisle we just came from and grinned at jenn.

“Let’s spy” She whispered. I nodded, grinning. We crept up a little further and crouched down, listening intently to the convertsation between my husband and 2 best friends.

Chapter Six

“You’ve got a pregnancy test Nicky Boy, you think you might be pregnant?” AJ asked sarcastically

“Haha, Bone. No it’s for a friend. She’s a little scared and wanted my help” Nick answered

“Can’t she buy her own test?” Howie asked

“She could’ve but I did, because I’m that kind of person” Nick answered. I smiled.

“The only girl you’re nice to is Rhia and she can’t be pregnant” AJ was saying. I bit my lip and looked at Jenn who was listening hard

“Why? You guys arne’t doin nuffin?” Nick asked

“No, we do, a lot. But she hasn’t said anything to me about being pregnant” AJ said

“Maybe she’s keeping it secret Dawg” Howie said

“I doubt it. We don’t have secrets in our relationship” AJ said and a pang of guilt washed over me

“Fair enough” Nick said

“It’s not Rhia is it?” AJ asked. I  imagined Nick hesitating

“Bone, if it was Reese I’d tell you dude” I heard Nick say softly

“God I was hoping that maybe she was because I just want to have a baby with her so fucking bad” AJ said with a sigh

“It’ll happen dude” Nick said

“Speaking of things happening, is Jennisen just the prettiest woman you’ve ever seen?” Howie gushed. I grinned and looked at Jenn who was blushing slightly.

“She’s alright” Nick said

“Meh, I don’t look at other girls like that anymore. Not since that night at the club when Rhia you know, caught me with that other girl” AJ said and I half smiled to myself

“Oh come on you can’t tell me that you didn’t check her out” Nick was sayingh

“Don’t talk about her like that” Howie interrupted

“You like her dude?” AJ asked

“I think I might ask her out” Howie was saying. I turned to see Jenn grinning so hard I thought her face was about to crack.

“You know, I bet they’re in the aisle next to us listening” AJ said. We both turned to each other and covered our mouths, trying not to laugh as we ran as quietly as we could to the next aisle where we both cracked up laughing.

“He’s gonna ask you out girl” I said to Jennisen

“I know, that is so awesome… good gawd!” She said laughing. The 3 men appeared at the top of the aisle and I quickly picked up an ugly looking doll so that it’d look like we were laughing at it.

“They’re coming so play it cool” I said to her. She grinned and started laughing all over again. I cracked up too, for no particular reason.

“What are you 2 ladies laughing about?” AJ asked wrapping his arms around my waist and resting his head on my shoulder

“This doll, look at how ugly it is” I said and put it back on the shelf, shaking my head

“Are you 2 tired of toys yet?” Nick asked us

“Why?” Jenn asked

“Because I wanna go clothes shopping” He said

“Clothes… I need new clothes” I nodded

“Let’s go than” Howie said

“I need to pay for this” Jenn said holding up the cow. I laughed. Howie just gazed at her with a smile on his face. AJ and Nick shook their heads and chuckled. As we walked toward the checkouts AJ held me back a little and stopped me.

“Baby, are you pregnant?” He asked me softly. I bit my lip and looked away.

“My period is late or I’ve skipped it all together” I said softly

“And the test is yours?” He asked. I nodded.

“Rhia why didn’t you tell me?” He asked pushing my hair back from my face

“Because I wasn’t sure and than you said that we should try next year and I just got scared” I rambled

“I only said that because I didn’t want you to feel pressured. I’d be happy to have a baby right now. I don’t care Rhianna, just as long as it’s with you” He said pulling me into a hug. I smiled and hugged him back.

“Can I still go to Nick’s tonight?” I asked.

“Yes, you can” He said laughing. I smiled. He let me go and we walked back towards our friends, both with big smiles on our faces

Chapter Seven

“What are you 2 grinning about?” Jenn asked as we met up with them at the checkout

“She told him” Nick said

“Yeah. I had to” I said

“You still coming over?” Nick asked hopefully

“Hell yeah! I would never pass up an opportunity to spend time with my precious Nickers” I grinned. He stuck his tongue out and blushed a little as the other 3 laughed.

“Don’t call me that in public” He said

“Aww ok Nickers” I cooed

“Reese” He whined

“No matter how mature you pretend to be, we know the truth” AJ said to him

“Shut up” He said. I just grined and gave him a quick hug. Jennisen paid for the cow and we walked towards the clothing shops.

“Me and Reese need to do some serious girl shopping, find us in an hour” Jenn said taking my arm and starting to pull me away

“I’ll call you” I said to AJ. He nodded and looked at his friends and I had no doubt that they’d start talking about Jennisen and I.

“Where are we going?” I asked her

“Maternity clothes shopping” She grinned

“Yuck” I whined

“It’s not that bad, ther’s some nice clothes for pregnant girls now” She said

“What did you wear when you were Pregnant with Drake?” I asked

“God you don’t wanna wear that stuff, it’s gross” She laughed. I shrugged as we enetered one of the big clothes shops. She led me to Maternity and we started looking through the racks. I found a nice skirt and held it up. She nodded in approval. I hung it back up, noting where it was and continued to look. We decided not to buy anything in case I wasn’t pregnant and moved over to the normal clothes. Jenn bought a nice pair of bootleg jeans and a white top that had ‘”Don’t disturb me, I’m already disturbed enough” on the front for her non-official date with Howie. I got another pair of baggy jeans and a sleeveless orange top and we paid for them.

“What did AJ say when you told him?” Jenn asked as we walked to another shop

“He said that he’d be happy to have a baby now as long as it is with me” I grinned

“Aww that is so sweet” She cooed.

“Ooohhh let’s go in here” I said pointing to a Gothic type shop. Although I wasn’t Gothic, I liked the gothic style and always had.

“Lawdy Lawdy this stuff is crazy” Jenn said as we wandered around the racks of black leather clothes with sippers and  clips and chains.

“If I hadn’t ended up with Alex I think I would’ve turned out to be a ful Goth” I said to her

“I know, in school you were always so weird. AJ got you just intime” She grinned. I laughed and went over to a rack of black candles.

“Now that is creepy” I said holding one up

“Can we go? I don’t’ like it in here” She whispered

“yeah ok” I said. We went out of the shop and my cell started ringing. I grabbed it from my pocket and glanced at the caller ID. Alex.

“Hey Gorgeous” I said

“Hey baby. Are you and Jenn done yet?” He asked

“Uh huh, I was just about to call you” I said

“Well we’re at the food court where we were before” He said

“Ok, we’ll be there in a minute” I said

“I love you” HE said

“I Love you too” I grinned and hung up.

“They’re at the food court” I grinned. Jenn nodded and we headed in that direction. Talking about everything from Drake to the cow she bought to how hot Howie was. When we finally reached them AJ offered to get me lunch.

“Just get me the usual from Mickey D’s” I said to him

“Jenn what would you like? My shout” Howie said

“Oh umm, good gawd. I’ll just have ½ a slice of stuffed spinach from Lucia’s Pizza and an iced tea” She grinned

“And I’ll have the usual D” Nick said

“Get your own Carter” Howie said

“Oh come on” Nick said

“You give me the money and I’ll buy it for you” AJ said laughing. Nick got out his wallet and grumbled as he handed AJ $20. As AJ and Howie went away Nick turned to us and smiled.

“What?” Jenn asked

“Nothin” He said and his smiled turned into a grin

“Nicky” I said

“Whaty” he replied

“Whatchu grinning at?” I asked

“Can’t tell you too much” He said

“Evil, EVIL man” I pouted. He just kept grinning at us.

Chapter Eight

AJ and Howie came back, placing the trays in front of us and sitting down.

“How can you eat that?” Nick asked watching Jenn eat her Pizza

“Quite easily actually. I just open my mouth, put it in and chomp down” Jenn said

“It looks gross” Nick said

“Watch your own food” I said to him

“I should get some change from you” He said to AJ

“I paid for Mine and Rhia’s with your money too” AJ said with a shrug

“Typical” Nick said

“Now, now boys. No Need to cause a scene” I said and I instantly regretted it Because all 3 of them looked at each other with wide grins. Nick stood.

“No, not here, sit down” I said tugging on his hand

“Ladies and Gentlemen” He boomed and a few people around us stared at him. Howie rose next. Jenn was watching with interest.

“I Present to you” He said loudly also. Now AJ rose and he grinned widely at me.

“3/5ths of the Backstreet Boys” He said and instantly the 3 of them were singing.

“Somebody told me that you’re not mah kind so have I lost mah mind. You keep on doing all the things I like. You’ve got me hyp-no-tized. But that’s the way I like it” Nick sang perfectly as the other 2 made noises. They’d done this on a regular basis when AJ and I first got together and it was a bit embarrassing.

“Girl you make wanna move, it’s a price I’ve got to pay. For all the tings you do, but I like it. Gotta listen to the groove and you gotta listen well” AJ sang doing his now famous ‘air hump’

“Cos that’s the way I like it” They all sang. I felt the blush rise up my neck and glanced at Jenn who’s mouth was resting on the table as she watched in awe as the 3 guys, in particular, Howie danced around our table.

“Everybody now” Said Nick

“I like it” The all said

“Everbody come on” Nick said

“I like it” They all sang. Despite being short 2 Backstreet Boys and a band, they sounded good, none the less I was very embarrassed. Some of the people had started clapping along. I looked down at the table and shook my head.

“Dance with me Ressey!” Nick said tugging on my arm. I shook my head again only to be dragged up by both he and AJ.

“No, guys this is not the time or place” I said but was met with a loud yell from Nick as he spun me around. I lost balance and landed in AJ’s arms. He grinned and spun me again this time to Howie who was laughing as they sang and danced. When the song was finished they bowed and most people clapped. A few even cheered.

“You lot are so dead” I grumbled slumping in my seat. They laughed. Jenn was hiding her face a little also, but had managed to start laughing.

“Aww cmon Reese, you loved it” AJ said

“It’s bad enough at concerts but in the middle of a mall?” I asked

“Wait, concerts?” Jenn asked

“Alex sang to me on stage in front of all his fans. I sang for him too on his birthday concert and that’s when he proposed” I said. AJ smiled proudly

“That’s sweet” She said. I just half smiled and sipped my coke. After lunch we walked to more clothes shops and the guys were stopped for autographs by a couple of girls.

“RHianna can I have your autograph too?” One of the girls asked

“Sure” I said smiling. I took her cd and texta and signed next to AJ’s name. She looked at it and than looked back at me.

“All the fans are saying that you didn’t take AJ’s Last name” She said

“Really? Weird.” I said

“Yeah and they’re saying that you live in separate houses” She said

“No we live together now in my house in Orlando” AJ said

“Oh ok. Well thanks for the autograph” She said. I just smiled. The guys waved them off and we kept on walking.

“Oh Hat’s” AJ exclaimed, stopping in front of a shop. Nick, Howie and I groaned to ourselves and rolled our eyes.

“What’s so good about hats?” Jenn asked confused looking from me and AJ and back

“AJ is OBSESSED with hats” Nick said

“And sunglasses” I added

“It’s crazy” Howie said nodding

“You juys are just jealous of my good taste in fashion” AJ said simply before he walked into the shop.

“We’ll be here for about an hour” Nick said to Jenn. She laughed and we followed AJ in. Typically he was looking at the cowboy hats.

“Whatchu think of this one Babe?” He asked turning to me. He had a velvet zebra print.

“Holy henna! What IS that?” Jenn asked staring at him

“It’s a zebra hat” AJ grinned

“It uhh looks ok” I said

“Would you hold my hand and walk with me if I was wearing it?” He asked

“Probably not. You’d have to bribe me pretty well” I grinned. He chuckled and put it back on the rack. I wandered over to the baby hats and started looking through them. I found a cute little bonnet with ears and smiled.

“That’s cute” Said Nick from behind me. I turned and smiled at him.

“yeah. I don’t think I’d let my kid wear it though” I said

“Why not?” He asked

“How embarrassing” I laughed

“Well if you don’t buy it I will” He said taking it off me.

“Nick, no, I don’t even know if I am yet” I said

“Just in case” He grinned and went to show AJ. Howie came over to me and picked up a pink trucker cap for a little girl and smiled at me.

“You think if I asked Jennisen out she’d say yes?” He asked me in a hushed voice

“I think she would D. She kinda like you” I answered. He smiled and winked at me, holding up the cap and taking it to the counter

Chapter Nine

As we walked through the clothes shop AJ kept looking around, like he was looking for someone and I began to wonder. I told myself not to worry and followed him around. He seemed a little nervous.

“Hey are you ok?” I asked him

“Yeah why?” He asked smiling

“You seem nervous” I said

“Nah I’m ok” He said. I nodded. He went back to looking through the rack of clothes, but I saw his eyes search the shop briefly. I didn’t push it.

“Hey Reese, it’s like 3 You wanna get going and get some movies?” Nick asked

“Umm, yeah I guess, hang on” I said and walked towards Howie and Jenn who were talking.

“Jenn, I was uhh wondering if you’d like to come to my house tonight and I’ll cook you dinner” Howie was saying as I got closer

“Umm… yea… I’d like that” She blurted blushing furiously. I huckled to myself and walked up to them.

“Sorry to interupt but Nick wants to go. Jenn are you ok to go with AJ and Howie?” I asked her

“Yeah ok: She said. Howie was looking away and she nodded to him and grinned widley. He looked back and she giggled and blushed again. I laughed at them both and gave her a hug.

“Behave” I whispered. She laughed and let me go

“I’ll call you tomorrow” She said

“Ok. Be good Howie and look after Jenn” I said hugging him

“I will” He promised. I grinned at him and went back over to where Nick and AJ were talking.

“I gotta go with Nicky, Alex” I said to him

“Ok. You too have fun and call me as soon as you know” He said glancing down at the bag Nick was holding. I nodded. He leaned forwards and pecked my lips quickly but didn’t hug me. I just smiled and waved, following Nick out of the shop.

“You looked a little uncomfortable in there, that’s why we’re leaving. You ok?” He asked me as we walked through the mall towards the car park

“Alex kept looking around, like he was searching for someone” I said with a sigh

“I wouldn’t worry, we’re gonna have fun tonight” He said as we emerged in the car park

“Thanks for being such a good friend Nick” I said touching his arm. He just smiled at me.

“Didja wanna drive?” He asked

“Why is everyone asking if I’m driving today?” I asked laughing

“Cos we’re all lazy and LOVE being driven around” He grinned. I laughed againa dn took his keys off him.

“The Porsche huh?” I asked looking at them

“Gotta cruise in style” He said as we walked up to it. I unlocked it and climbed in. He climbed in also and put his seat belt on. I did the same and started the car, reversing out slowly.

“Where did you wanna get movies from?” I asked as I drove out of the carpark

“Hmm where ever” He grinned at me. I drove down the road and turned a couple of orners before parking out the front of the video store that I always stopped at on the way to Nick’s. We got out and I locked the car up, following him in.

“Do you know if Alex is cheating on me?” I blurted out as we looked at the horror films

“Hunny I think he learnt his lesson when you caught him at that club and I broke his arm” He said

“Yeah, but the way he was looking around at that shop…” I trailed off

“Don’t stress” He said to me giving my hand a squeeze. We picked out 5 horror movies and 3 comedy movies and than drove to the supermarket where we stocked up on plenty of junk food and soft drink.

Chapter Ten

We were half way through Freddy Kruger when Nick decided that I should probably do the test before it got too late to ring AJ. I nodded and we both went into the bathroom.

“Nicky you can’t wait in here” I said with a chuckle. He grinned and went out again. I quickly read the instructions and than did what I had to. When I was done I sat it on the counter and opened the door. Nick came in and we both leaned against the wall.

“You scared?” He asked

“A little” I answered

“Me too. Dunno why” He said. I laughed a bit and moved a little closer to him. He put his arm around me reassuringly and I realised how tall he was.

“Dude your tall” I said. This time he laughed.

“You’ve only noticed that now?” He asked. I shrugged and looked at my watch, checking how long it’d been.

“What if you are?” He asked

“Well I guess Alex and I’ll have to start getting a nursery ready” I said

“And if you’re not?”

“We’ll try next year” I said with a nod. He pulled me closer and I leaned into him. A whole bunch of emotions washed over me and a gulped a little. Nick must’ve felt them too because his whole body tensed, but he didn’t move away. What seemed like hours later it was finally time to check the little stick. I leaned forwards and picked it up along with the instructions. I looked at the stick and than the diagram. Nick must’ve seen it the same time as me because I was suddenly being scooped up into a tight hug. Tears streamed down my face and we both laughed.

“You should ring Jay” He said softly as he set me down

“Yeah, I should” I said gazing up at his face. I hadn’t noticed just how gorgeous he was until now. I was still holding his hands. I realised what was happening and quickly let go, tearing my eyes away. I went past him.

“I’m gonna use the phone in your room” I said. I didn’t hear his reply I just went up the stairs quickly and into his bedroom. I half closed the door and sat on his bed, picking up the phone and dialing AJ’s number.

“Hello?” He said

“Hey” I said

“Rhia” He said sounding surprised. I thought I heard a girls voice in the background.

“Is someone there with you?” I asked softly

“No, it’s the TV” He said

“Oh, ok” I said

“What’d you call for?” He asked

“You’re gonna be a daddy” I said

“I am? Oh Rhianna that is so cool” He said sounding happy but not excited

“Do you want me to come home?” I asked\

“No” He answered a little too quickly “Stay and catch up with Nick”

“Ok, well I might stay here the night so Nick doesn’t have to drive me all the way back to Orlando” I said

“Ok that’s cool. I’ll see you tomorrow Babe” He said

“Yeah, Bye” I said. He hung up. Slowly I hung up and sat there for a second. I wasn’t sure what was going on. I must’ve been there a long time cos there was a knock on the door and Nick called out my name.

“Reese you ok?” He asked

“Yeah I’m ok” I said standing up

“You don’t look ok” He said walking over to me and brushing away a tear that I didn’t know had fallen from my eye.

“Just happy” I said with a smile

“Are you sure?” he asked. I nodded.

“Well let’s go watch Freddy” He said offering me his hand. I took it and followed him downstairs. We both sat on the couch and he un-paused the DVD. As the movie went on I eventually forgot about the phone conversation between AJ and I and concentrated more on what was happing in the movie. AT one stage I squealed and literally jumped into Nick’s lap. I carefully shifted off him but didn’t move far from his side. He put his arm around me and hugged me close. I felt his breath on the side of my head and turned to look at him only to find his face not even inches from mine.

“Nick..” I trailed off before he pressed his lips to mine.

Chapter Eleven

I kissed him back, the whole thing not registering in my head. I slid my hand around to the back of his neck and held onto him gently. When he broke the kiss we were both breathless. He looked into my eyes and I looked back.

“God I’ve wanted to do that for ages” He whispered. He leant in for another kiss when we were interrupted by his front door clamming.

“Nicky! Are you home?” Came a shrill girls voice. Nick and I both sprung apart settling at opposite ends of the couch.

“Yeah Aimee in here” He called back. She appeared in the doorway  just as I stuffed my mouth full of popcorn. I was shaking, so most of it went on my lap.

“Oh, HI Reese” She said. She didn’t sound impressed

“Hey” I answered.

“Uhh we were just having a catch up night” Nick said standing up. She went over and gave him a kiss.

“mm coke” She giggled

“Hey Nick, umm I can catch a cab back into Orlando” I said standing up

“Oh don’t worry I only came to drop this off” Aimee said handing him a shoe box

“It’s some of your bills and stuff that I forgot to give you when you first got back” She said

“Oh, thanks” Nick said and smiled at her.

“See me out?” She asked him. He nodded and half smiled at me before following his girlfriend out. I leaned my head back and touched my lips. Not sure what to think. I grabbed up his cordless phone and went through the kitchen out onto his deck. I dialled Jenn’s cell number and waited.

“Hello?” She asked. She sounded breathless.

“Jenn” I said

“Reese, jesus this is a real bad time” She said and I heard Howie in the background

“You and he are..?” I asked

“Uhh yeah. Can I call you back tomorrow?” She asked

“yeah sure” I said

“Bye” She said

“Bye” I replied and hung up. I sat down on the wooden steps leading down to the pool area and started to cry. I didn’t know what was going on. I was sure that AJ was cheating on me but I was cheating on him with his best friend and I was pregnant. I Heard Nick calling my name out again and held my breath trying to stop crying.

“Out here” I answered when I’d calmed down a bit and was no longer sobbing. I heard him come out and walk towards me and wiped my eyes. He sat behind me with his legs on either side of me and his arms around me.

“Nick” I said, my throat catching and felt the tears well up in my eyes again

“Shh it’s ok. I’m sorry I shouldn’t have kissed you” He whispered rocking us both from side to side gently.

“He’s cheating on me again” I blurted out

“AJ?” He asked. All I could do was nod.

“Jesus Christ” He said standing up and going back inside.

“Nick, wait, what are you doing” I said following him. When I got inside he was waiting with his cell phone pressed to his ear. He looked extremely angry.

“What the hell are you doing?” He asked. I assumed AJ had just picked up the phone

“No AJ, you are NOT cheating on her again” He said

“She fucking KNOWS!” He exclaimed loudly and I jumped. He looked at me and I saw tears in his own eyes.

“Jesus Christ AJ you’re MARRIED. She’s your WIFE. She’s carrying YOUR fucking child. But hey that’s no surprise is it. Seems everyone’s carrying your child” He said I turned away and went up the stairs. When I reached the top I slid down the wall and started sobbing all over again. A While later Nick came up and all I could do was sob as he picked me up and carried me into his room. He laid me on his bed and I rolled onto my side and curled, still sobbing. I felt his arm slide around my waist and cried even more. Than I heard him start to sing.

“When we turn out the light the 2 of us alone together, something just not right and girl you know I would never ever let another’s touch come between the 2 of us cos no one else will ever take your place”.

Chapter Twelve

I woke up  to find Nick on his back beside me with no shirt on and I was quick to make sure that I was dressed. Suddenly everything that had happened last night came back to me. I turned on my side and watched Nick sleep, thinking of how much he reminded me of an Angel when he slept. So much for happily married I thought to myself holding up my hand and looking at the engagement ring and wedding band. I sat up and watched Nick again, contemplating whether or not I should get up and go home or just stay here until AJ rings. I decided to stay here. I carefully leaned over and pecked Nick’s lips gently. He stirred but didn’t wake. I slid off the bed and went downstairs to get myself some coffee. The phone started ringing and I picked it up quickly before it could wake Nick.

“Hello” I said

“Reese” Said Jennisen

“Jenn” I answered

“What’d you call for last night?” She asked

“Just to see how your date was going” I lied

“Oh it was awesome. He cooked me Mexican and we had a few wines and one thing lead to another and we ended up in his room” She rambled

“Awesome” I said trying to force happiness into my voice

“Yeah it was soo good. I’m still there, he’s cooking me breakfast” She said with a giggle

“I’ll let you go than, behave” I said

“Always. Bye” She said and hung up. I hung up slowly and hoisted myself onto the counter, sitting my coffee beside me and staring at the floor.

“You cool?” Nick asked from the door

“Great” I said without emotion

“You want me to drive you home?” He asked. I shook my head.

“Well how bout we finish off that junk food and coke and them movies huh?” He asked. I shrugged and followed him into the tv room. I set my coffee on the side table and curled up on one side of the couch. Nick put in another movie and sat at the other end.

“You wanna talk?” He asked

“Nothing to talk about” I said

“AJ loves you” He said

“Yeah” I said

“Look Reese we need to talk about this” He said

“He obviously doesn’t love me as much as he makes out” I said

“And what about you?” He asked

“That’s different. Nick you kissed me” I said

“But you kissed back” He said

“I didn’t have much of a choice” I snapped

“You had a choice. You could’ve pushed me away. You could’ve turned your head” He snapped back

“Why did you do it?” I asked

“Because I wanted to” He said

“Why?” I asked again

“Honestly Rhianna I have no idea. I just had the sudden urge to kiss you today at the mall” He said with a sigh. I nodded.

“You can fix this” He said softly

“Nick I’m pregnant and my husband is a cheat” I said

“Last night he said he wasn’t cheating. He denied the whole thing. Maybe he was telling the truth. I’ll take you home and you can work it out” He said standing up. I watched him disappear upstairs and sighed to myself. He came down a while later dressed in a new set of clothes. I reluctantly grabbed my stuff and followed him out to the car. I got in and stared out the window most of the way home. When we arrived I let myself in and was met with the disgusting smell of stale Jack Daniels and cigarette smoke.

“Alex?” I called out softly. There was no response. I went into the living room and froze.

Chapter Thirteen

Nick pushed past me and dropped to his knee’s beside AJ. I was still frozen on the spot.

“Reese, go get water” Nick said. I spun on my heel and ran into the kitchen filling up a glass with water. When I went back in Nick was checking his pulse and breathing. I handed him the water and he set it beside him. I noticed the JD bottle  tipped on the ground beside him and saw the stain it had created. Nick started to gently shake him and I watched in horror as nothing happened.

“AJ, yo, Jay, dude it’s time to get up” Nick was saying calmly

“Is he ok?” I whispered

“I think he’s just passed out” He answered and shook him again a little harder.

“Yo BONE we’re late for the show quick get up, Ke’vs gonna chuck a mental” Nick said and slowly AJ’s eyes opened.

“What the fuck?” He grumbled

“Hey there dude you ok?” Nick asked with a smile that looked forced

“Yeah. I- where are we?” He asked

“We’re at your house” Nick answered

“Where’s Rhia?” He mumbled

“I’m here” I said taking a step forward

“I didn’t cheat” He said trying to focus on me

“It’s ok. As long as you’re ok” I said kneeling beside him. He reeked of alcohol and smoke.

“Jesus I feel like crap” He said

“Come on let’s get you in a shower and than into bed” Nick said helping him sit up. I put his left arm over my shoulder and Nick put his right arm over his own shoulder and we both lifted him up. I struggled a little but Nick took most of his weight. We had to basically drag him up the stairs and into the bathroom.

“Let go I’ve got him” He said to me. I carefully moved away and washed as Nick stepped into the shower and sat him against the wall.

“Umm. You’d better not watch. This is kinda mean” He said to me

“What are you gonna do?” I asked

“Turn the cold water on” He said

“Just do it” I said. He nodded and turned the cold water tap on full pelt. AJ’s head snapped up and he started shivering.

“What the hell?” He asked looking around, alert.

“Jay you were passed out down stairs” Nick said

“Fuck” AJ said and his eyes laid on me. He slowly stood, swaying a little, but he never took his eyes off me.

“Rhianna, I’m so sorry” He said

“Just get better” I said softly and walked out of the room, closing the door a little behind me. I went down stairs and grabbed a bucket and scrubbing brush from the cupboard in the Laundry room and filled it with detergent and warm water. I went into the living room and knelt down, picking up the empty bottle and starting to scrub the stain out of the ground. When Nick and AJ finally came downstairs the stain was gone and I was cleaning up the ashtray and butts all over the table.

“Rhia, baby sit down” AJ said. He looked very pale. I sat on the couch and he sat beside me, taking my hands. Nick stood in the doorway, for moral support I guess.

“I didn’t cheat on you last night Rhia. The girl you heard, it was Leighanne. She brought us over some vegetables from her and Rok’s garden. I didn’t tell you because I wasn’t thinking straight. I was drunk” He said

“Drunk?” I said. He looked at Nick, so did I.

“You can do it Jay” He said softly. AJ took a breath and turned to me, looking down at our hands.

“I think I’m an Alcoholic” He said, barely above a whisper.

Chapter Fourteen

I sat there stunned as my husband told me about his excessive drinking that I didn’t even know about and how he was going to go to Rehab and overcome it and all I could to was sit there and cry.

“I’m going to get better for you and for our marriage” He said softly, he was crying too.

“And the baby?” I whispered

“Baby? What baby?” He asked, sitting up.

“I rang you last night, to tell you the results of the test” I said puzzled

“I don’t remember” He said

“I’m pregnant Alex. We’re gonna have a baby” I said

“For real? Ima be a Daddy?” he asked and glanced at Nick who was now smiling.

“Yeah” I answered. He hugged me tight and I felt his tears on my shoulder.

“God I love you so much” He said in my ear, kissing my cheek

“I love you too” I whispered, rubbing his back.

“Ok. I’m going to go pack a bag. So that I can go to rehab right now and get better for us” He said standing up. I just nodded. He bolted up the stairs and Nick looked at me for a second before following him up. I wiped my face and finished cleaning up the butts and ashtray, reaching the conclusion that I should probably ring the others and get them over here quick smart before AJ went. I picked up the phone and dialled Kev’s number first.

“Hello” Came Kristin’s cheerful voice

“Hey Kris, can I please talk to Kev?” I asked

“Sure thing hun, I’ll put him on” She said. I waited.

“Reese, hey, what’s up?” He asked

“Umm, can you please come over?” I asked struggling to hold back another set of tears

“Sure, I’ll be right over” He said becoming serious

“Thanks” I managed to get out before hanging up. I settled myself down and ran Brian.

“Hello” He said

“Rok, hey, it’s me, listen can you come over?” I asked again struggling to hold back tears

“Is something wrong?” He asked carefully

“Yeah, but I can’;t tell you on the phone, you need to come over and hurry” I said

“We’re on our way” He said

“Thanks” I said. I hung up and dialled Howie’s number

“Latino Lover Hotline How can we service you?” Purred Jenn

“First of all you can put Howie on and secondly you can hightail your ass over here” I said softly

“Oh sure Reese here he is” She said and I heard the phone being passed.

“Hey girl” Howie said

“Can you come over? I’ll explain when you get here” I said

“Sure we’re on our way” He said. I said goodbye and hung up just as AJ and Nick came back down stairs.

“I uhh called everyone. They’re all on their way over. I hope you don’t mind” I said looking down

“Thank you” He whispered as he came over.

“Promise me you’ll get better” I said starting to cry again

“I promise. When I get back we’ll start shopping for Nursery stuff and toys ok?” He said. I nodded. He wiped away my tears with his thumbs and kissed my forhead.

“I’ll go get you a drink” He whispered. I nodded again and watched as he went into the kitchen. My eyes fell on Nick who was watching me.

“Are you alright?” He asked. I shook my head no and he came over and wrapped his arms around me.

“He’ll get better” He said rubbing my back.

Chapter Fifteen

There was a knock at the door and Nick was the one who got up to answer it. AJ and I stayed put on the couch in each others arms. Kev came rushing in with Kristin in tow.

“What’s happened?” He asked looking straight at me

“Sit down, we’ll talk about it when everyone else gets here” AJ said softly

“I’ll go and put the kettle on” I said reluctantly standing up.

“I’ll help” Kristin said following me. I nodded. We went into the kitchen and I started getting down mugs while Kris got out the coffee, tea and sugar.

“What’s going on? You look like you’ve been crying?” She asked me

“Just a lot of drama happening” I said as Leigh walked through the door way.

“Why are we all here?” She asked grabbing the milk out of the fridge as she passed. There was something about these two women that continually amazed me.

“Alex needs to tell the guys something” I said

“Is it bad?” Kris asked. I shrugged and started pouring hot water into all the mugs. Finally Jennisen came rushing in.

“Reese, jesus are you ok? Girl you look like crap” She said

“Gee. Thanks. Kris, Leigh this is my friend from highschool Jennisen. Jenn this is Leighanne, Brian’s wife and Kristin, Kevin’s wife” I said

“Nice to meet ya’ll” Jenn said to them

“You too” Kris said Warmly. Leigh smiled.

“Well I think we should get all this out to the guys” I said with a half smile as I finished making all the coffee and tea. It was amazing that I knew how everyone had their tea or coffee. As we carried them out they were all talking about what they’d done since the tour finished. I sat down beside AJ again and he slipped his arm around my waist and rested it on my stomach. Kev looked at us curiously.

“Rhia got you all here because she thought I might need a bit of support from you all. Last night when you came over Leigh I was pissed as a nit and I didn’t know what was going on. When Rhia rang she thought I was having an affair. Again. But I wasn’t. Nick yelled at me on the phone too, but I still wasn’t having an affair. When Rhia and Nick got here this morning I was passed out on the floor. It was so bad that Nick had to put me in a cold shower” He said. Kev’s entire body tensed.

“I know that you all know now why you’re here. Kev’s known for the longest exactly what I’m going through. I’m an alcoholic” He said. Brian and Howie’s eyes widened and all 3 girls gasped.

“But I’m admitting myself to rehab, today. I need to get better for the sack of my health and my marriage” He said. I nudged him.

“And for our unborn baby, who I’ve already named Donna Bella Scarlet McLean” He said. Kev, Howie and Brian all hugged AJ while the 3 girls started squealing and hugging me. Than they swapped. They stayed for another half hour and than left. Nick offered to take AJ to a rehab centre just outside of Orlando and he said yes. So we got in the car and started the drive. When we arrived we all got out and stood there.

“Do you want me to come in?” I blurted. He shook his head and pulled me into a hug. “I Love you Rhianna Scarlet McLean” He said

“I love you too Alexander James McLean” I said. He gave me a long passionate kiss before slowly kneeling down and lifting my shirt a little.

“Hey Donna Bella. I Love you baby girl. Be good for your Mama” He said and kissed my stomach. I gazed down at him, with my hand on the back of his head. He rose back up to his feet and gave me another kiss before turning to Nick.

“You look after my wife” He said, punching Nicks shoulder playfully. They were both getting choked up.

“I promise” Nick said

“Take care bro” AJ said giving him a hug.

“Yeah. Look after yourself aight” Nick said. I watched the two quietly with my arms crossed over my chest. AJ stepped away and smiled at us both.

“I’ll see you soon” He said and turned, starting to walk towards the gate. I waved, letting the tears flow freely from my eyes. Nick put his arm around me and gave me a squeeze. AJ didn’t look back. As we got back in the car to go home Nick handed me a newspaper.

“I was gonna show you this later but now seems like the right time” He said. I looked at it. There was a picture of AJ and I looking at a toy and the headline read: ‘Toy Shopping Sparks Rumours That Backstreet Baby #1 Is On The Way’.

The End