The next day we were scheduled to be at the studio at 9am and it was a shock to the system to be up earlier than 12pm. AJ had been up for an hour before I got up at 8 and he’d made me breakfast. I grinned at him as we ate and than raced upstairs to have a quick shower and get dressed. They’d all said to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, so I did just that. I wore my baggy jeans, a singlet, since it was still fairly hot here and my skate shoes. We arrived at the studio a bit after 9 and I followed AJ shyly through some corridors etc, smiling at people who gave me weird looks. He pushed open a door and I let out a sigh of relief as I saw Jenn, Taz, Kev, Nick and Brian sitting around a table of food and drink. Jenn looked tired, but extremely happy. I could only guess that her and Kev had been up all night. I hoped they hadn’t done anything in Kev and Kristins bed. I made a note to myself to ask her later.

“I thought before we got you guys in the actual studio, we’d show you how it all works. Get you familiar with some of the stuff” Kev said after we’d greeted everyone. I looked at Jenn and Taz. They were excited. I was having severe doubts though.

“Can I talk to mah girls first?” I asked with a grin

“Sure, go for it” He said. I nodded to the door and he laughed.

“Come on fella’s let’s give them some privacy” He said. The guys left and I sat beside my friends.

“You’re having doubts right?” Taz asked

“ Yeah” I said softly

“Look we both know that you’re not enjoying all this right now and we understand. But just give it a chance. This could be it. This could be us taking the first step on the road to fame” Jenn said

“I know. I guess I’m just scared. You know me, I hate rejection” I said with a chuckle. They both enveloped me in a hug.

“We’re gonna be fine. So what if they don’t like us? Fuck the cunts, we’ll go back to playing clubs” Taz said. I laughed and hugged them back.

“Now, I gotta pee. I’ll be back” She said and stood up. When she was gone I looked at Jenn.

“Tell me you didn’t fuck him in their bed” I whispered

“we found a hotel” She answered as the guys started coming back in

“I was worried” I said

“Nah I wouldn’t do that” She said. I nodded.

“You cool now?” Kev asked me

“yeah I’m cool” I answered with a smile

“You think Kurt was as nervous as her?” Nick asked AJ

“Hell no. Kurt had a confidence about him” AJ said

“I’m right here guys” I said. AJ grinned.

“You think she plays better guitar than kurt?” Nick asked

“Oh definitely. Hands down.” AJ said

“Shh, you’ll jinx me” I said to them

“I’ve never seen you do the Trademark Kurt Destortion trick” Kev said

“I only do it on special occasions” I said

“You’ll have to show us” He said. I nodded. Taz came back and grabbed a bagel.

“Taz” I said with a grin. She looked up at me.

“What?” Was he reply

“Your own personal Bagel. Someone to eat your jam, someone with teeth” I sang and we both cracked up laughing. I ended up leaning against the wall to support myself while Taz was rolling around on the ground. Jenn was also laughing, not quite as hard as Taz and I though.

“Come on, we should get this started” Kev said. I calmed myself down and offered Taz my hand, hoisting her up. We all followed Kev and Brian into another room and I looked around in awe. Directly in front of us was a massive mixing board with buttons and switches galore. Behind that was a glass window with instruments and studio Mics attached to headphones. The studio itself was roomier than I expected and I kicked myself for not bringing my camera.

“This is amazing” I breathed, looking around. There were seats and tables behind the mixing board, but I didn’t take much notice of them. As Kev went through what most of the buttons and switches did, I found myself becoming increasingly excited. Every now and than I’d glance into the studio and I’d feel the worry and doubt I had slipping away.

“I can see you’re all itching to get in their and test it out, so go on in” Kev said. I looked at AJ and he smiled and came over.

“Just go in and pretend you’re doing a show” He said rubbing my arms gently. I nodded dumbly and he pecked my lips. I followed Jenn in, Taz had already ran through the glass door and was sitting at the drumkit, and went over to the guitar. I picked it up and put the strap over my shoulder and made it comfortable. I glanced at jenn and saw her putting the headphones on. I did the same and Kev’s voice filtered through.

“Can you guys hear me alright?” He asked.

“Perfect” Came Taz’s voice

“Alright, pick a song and play it. I’m gonna record it and show you how raw material sounds and than we’ll go through the steps to get it to cd quality sound” He said

“Ok, sounds good” Jenn said. I nodded.

“Jai, you might wanna check your guitar and see if it’s in tune” Came AJ’s voice. I grinned and strummed a few chords. Cringing when they sounded wrong..

“Thanks” I said. He gave me a thumbs up and I quickly tuned it up.

“Check your bass” I said to Jenn. She did and nodded too.

“We’re good” I said

“Ok, what song?” Kev asked

“Forever Rebel” Taz and Jenn said together. I grinned and nodded. Taz counted us in and we started playing. I started singing, a little hesitant at first. Nick, Kev and AJ had their heads bent over the desk in front of them but Brian was dancing. I grinned and got more into it. When we came to the rap in the first verse all of us stopped playing and 3 heads looked up at exactly the same time as I started rapping. Nick grinned and gave me thumbs up. When I was done we all came back in with our instruments and sang the chorus. When the song was finished the 3 of us looked to the guys for what to do next.

“Alright come on out and we’ll have a listen” Kev said. We put our stuff down and filed out of the booth.

“how was that?” AJ asked me

“That was fucking jawesome” I said, a grin spreading across my face. Jenn and Taz cheered. The 4 guys laughed and clapped for us. We listened to the raw material and I realised why it took so long to cut a record.

“While you’re in there and singing, don’t hesitate to test your voices, if it doesn’t fit we can do it again” Brian explained

“But won’t that take longer?” I asked

“The whole point of making a demo, is to show exactly what you can do with your voices” Nick said. He was being really serious about this.

“So we can experiment?” Taz asked

“Yep” Kev said

“Jai I was thinking, when you do the second verse and you’re singing ‘I wanna feel it in my blood’, why don’t you kind of curve your voice?” Nick said

“how do you mean?” I asked

“Like this” He said and showed me

“Oh, yeah ok” I said

“Can you do it?” He asked

“I can try” I laughed.

“Try it now” He said. I tried to curve my voice and it came out as a squeak

“Nick, why don’t you give her a crash course while Taz does the drums again” AJ suggested

“That’s a brilliant idea. Jenn, you can help me here” Kev said. She smiled and nodded. Taz went back intot eh studio and AS AJ and Nick lead me out of the room I heard Kev explaining to them both what ahd to be done in order for Taz to redo the drums.

“Did I do ok?” I asked them both when we sat down

“You were great. But we can never use raw stuff. It’ll take at least 3 hours to get this song right” AJ said

“Yeah, it’s the same with us” Nick grinned with a shrug

“So how on earth do you curve your voice?” I asked him. For 10 minutes he explained it to me in laymans terms and than I tried it. I did it and they both cheered. I grinned and tried again. For the next 20 minutes I practised with different words and tones and than we went back in.

“We’re ready” Nick said. Kev nodded and sent me into the booth as Taz came out.

“Alright you’re gonna have to sing the song from the beginning, I’ll play the music and stuff. You cool with that?” He asked

“Yep” I answered. He nodded and I heard Taz counting us in through the headphones and than I heardmyself playing the guitar and scrunched up my nose. When it was time to start singing I did, doing it as I would normally but inverting the curve Nick had just taught me. When I got to the part he was telling me about. I closed my eyes and did what I’d practised. When I opened them again, all 6 were going off. I looked away from them and kept singing, so I didn’t get distracted but as soon as I was finished, I looked at them again.

“Jesus fucking Christ Jaime” Was all that came out of Kev’s mouth

“Get your ass out here woman” Came Nicks. I hung up the headphones and went out of the booth. Jenn and Taz ran over and knocked me in the wall behind me as they both told me how good I sounded and all this other stuff I couldn’t understand because they were talking at the same time. I laughed and pushed past them, only to be pulled into AJ’s arms and kissed with so much force and love and passion that when he broke the kiss I was breathless. Next I was crushed in a bear hug by Nick.

“What the hell, guys I just sang a damn song” I said laughing

“But you sounded better than fucking jawesome” Kev said

“I don’t swear, well I try not too. But Jaime. Holy shit” Said Brian. I laughed and shook my head.

“You lot are crazy” I said.

Chapter 32

2 ½ weeks had passed since Dysfunct had gone into the studio and we were already halfway through the demo. Howie had arrived the week before and Jenn and Kev were sour as last week’s milk. Taz, Jenn and I were sitting at the table in the food area discussing Album names when I felt something burning my arm.

“Something’s burning me” I said and added playfully “Tara your muff is on fire and it’s burning me!” She started screaming and threw herself down on the ground, rolling around. Nick was watching in horror. I grabbed up my can of coke and tipped it on her crotch, that wasn’t on fire and we both started laughing.

“Holy fuck we’re funny” I choked out, collapsing on the floor beside her. She was still laughing.

“Man now I’m all sticky” She managed to get out

“Get changed” Jenn said with a chuckle. Taz stood and shook her head at me, still laughing a little bit before going into the  change rooms here where all of us kept a spare set of clothes. You never knew how long you’d have to spend in the booth so as well as clothes we had sleeping bags, in case we had to stay. We hadn’t yet.

“Hey babe, can I talk to you?” Howie asked Jenn

“yeah sure” She said. They went over to the other side of the room and I grabbed an apple from the fruit bowl before dropping down on the couch between Nick and AJ who were talking about movies or something.

“I’m tired” I sighed, taking a bite of my apple

“Yeah you don’t realise just how tiring it is to record all day” Nick said. I shook my head and chewed thoughtfully.

“I Doubt Your Commitment To Sparkle Motion” I said suddenly

“Say wha?” AJ asked, confused

“The title of our CD. I Doubt Your Commitment To Sparkle Motion” I said, a grin spreading across my face.

“Only you” Nick said shaking his head

“Hey Jenn” I said. She looked up at me

“I Doubt Your Commitment To Sparkle Motion” I said. She grinned and gave me a thumbs up, turning back to Howie

“How did she know what it’s for?” AJ asked

“We just know” I shrugged. Kev came into the room with 2 people following him. They looked important.

“Where’s Taz?” he asked, looking at me

“Her crotch was on fire, so I put it out with coke, now she’s getting changed” I smiled at him. He gave me a look and I just smiled more. He was really cranky now that Howie was here.

“This is serious Jai” He said

“Don’t get your boxers in a not babe I’ll go get her” I said. AJ nudged me and gave a gentle shake of his head. I looked up at Kev and saw him gritting his teeth.

“Kev, a word?” I asked standing up and walking past him and out the door. I waited for a minute and than he came out.

“Jaime this is-“ He started

“Don’t give me that serious bullshit. You’ve got the shits cos Howie turned up and you can’t have a fucking root. Now before you get even more pissy, hear me out. Taz, Jenn and I we don’t work. We have fun, if you can’t handle that then we end this right here, right now. I will make them walk out with me” I said in a low voice

“Look, these people they’re our managers and I don’t want them to see that you guys are crazy, I’m trying to get you a record deal” He said softly

“So what if me and the girls are a little weird. Not everyone can be serious Kev” I said

“I just want you to make a good impression on them” He said

“They either like us for us or they don’t” I said

“Ok, alright. But don’t ever say that I never tried help you” He said

“Whatever” I said with a laugh and gave him a quick hug. He smiled and went through the door. I followed, pretending to fix up my shirt and jeans.

“Nothin like a root to calm you down” I grinned. Nick and AJ started laughing, Kev chuckled but the 2 people stared at me.

“Sorry I was joking. My name is Jaime Cobain” I said with a smile as I held out my hand

“I’m johny Wright this is my wife and business partner Donna” The guy said taking my hand and shaking it.

“It’s lovely to meet you. Hold on one second and I’ll find my girls and introduce them” I said. They both nodded.

“I stepped away from them and gave a loud whitsle. Jenn came over and drapped her arm over my shoulder, she tried to smile but she looked extremely pissed off. The toilet door flung open and Taz came running out trying to do up her belt.

“I’m here, what did I miss?” She asked me. Johnny looked impressed

“Nothing. I just have to introduce you” I said

“Oh, ok” She said

“These are the other 2 members of Dysfunct, Jennsen Pena and Tara Orman. Taz, Jenn, Johnny and Donna Wright” I said. Taz stepped forwards first and shook their hands, greeting them warmly and than Jenn shook their hands and said hello.

“How about we go and have a listen to what you girls have so far recorded” Donna suggested

“Sure, after you” I said nodding to the door. Kev pushed it open and they went in. I looked at AJ and he stood up.

“Just be yourself, we can’t go in with you, but we’ll be waiting out here. Kev’s gonna be in there with you though” He said quickly. I nodded and went in, Jenn and Taz behind me. As the 6 of us listened to a couple of songs I watched their faces intently. They didn’t show much. Donna’s face registered shock once when she heard us sing American Hero. When they were finished Kev lead them out into the hall way and I dropped in the seat beside AJ.

“That was fucking scary” I whispered

“Aww. It gets easier I promise” He Said giving my hand a squeeze.. I watched Nick and Taz walk into the toilet, not a care in the world.

“You wanna go and get some fresh air? Kev won’t be back for a while if he’s talking to Johnny and Donna” He said to me

“Yeha, I’m dying for a ciggie” I said standing up. He grinned and stood up also, taking my hand and leading me out the door and past Kev, Donna and Johnny. I smiled at them, though they looked damn shocked when AJ put his arm around me, said a quick hello to them and kissed my forehead before we continued down the hall. We went out into the foyer and he dug out some change and got 2 bottles of Coke from the vending machine before leading me out into the street. We sat against a brickwall and each lit a cigarette. I leaned my head back on the wall and closed my eyes.

“Hmm, there’s a photographer” AJ murmured

“Where?” I asked lifting my head, re opening my eyes and looking around.

“Over there, the one with the camera” He said waving in the direction

“Should we be seen together?” I asked, panic suddenly tearing through my body

“Yes, we should. You’re my girlfriend” He said. I relaxed and looked at the person who was busily snapping photo’s.

“Acknowledge them, they hate it” He grinned. I laughed and picked up my drink, tipping it to the photographer before taking a swig. AJ laughed and sat back, taking another draw from his smoke.

“This has been one helluva rollercoaster ride” He said

“Yeah it has” I agreed, ashing my cigarette in front of me

“I just want you to know, that I’m in this for the long haul, both as your boyfriend and your friend” He said. I turned to him and smiled, wishing I could touch him or give him a kiss, but I wasn’t sure how he’d react, with the photo dude over there. As if he could read my thoughts and he smiled and leaned forwards, kissing me gently. I laughed a little against his lips and he pulled away and grinned.

“That’ll give our mate over there something to photograph” He said evilly. I laughed harder and shook my head.

“You’re naughty” I said

“And that’s why you love him right?” He asked, with an innocent grin on his face. I could almost picture a halo above his head. I laughed again and nodded.

“That’s exactly why I love you” I said. He smiled and finished his smoke. I did the same and had some more of my drink. My mobile started ringing and I got it out, looking at caller id.

“Bonjour!” I greeted cheerfully

“Not in the mood, you’d better come back here, Howie and Jenn are fighting. Jenn’s looks about ready to kill him” Taz said with a sigh

“I’m on my way” I said and hung up. I’d already stood up, AJ looked at me, confused.

“Jenn and Howie are fighting, I gotta go save Howie’s butt” I sighed. He looked confused.

“I’ll tell you on the way back in” I said and took one last draw of my cigarette before flicking it away and grabbing my coke. AJ did the same and followed me back in.

“IT’s about there relationship no doubt. Jenn doesn’t like him anymore, for obvious reasons, but also not so obvious reasons. Kev, is obvious, the fact that Jenn despises the way Howie has moved the relationship forward so fast, is not so obvious” I said as we hurried down the hall

“Oh right, gotcha” He said. I burst through the doors and went straight over to Jenn, who had her fists clenched and anger written all over her face.

“Hey Sin, guess what we just saw” I said, trying to be cheerful. She broke her eye contact with Howie and looked at me

“What?” she asked

“We just saw a photographer and AJ was a doofus and kissed me in front of him, god it was so funny” I said leading her away. She cracked a smile and I felt her relax

“Yo, Jai I was talking to her” Howie snapped at me

“Yo, D, she just saved your ass” Taz said before I lead Jenn into the studio room. We sat down on chairs and she groaned.

“Thanks for coming in when you did I guess” She said

“Hey I’m jus protectiong my buddie” I said. She laughed and sighed.

“He won’t let me break up with him” She said

“What about Kev?” I asked

“Kev tried to calm him down but it didn’t work” She answered. I stood and went over to the entrance to the booth.

“We shouldn’t” I said, as a grin spread across my face

“Who cares?” She answered. I remembered what Kev had taught me about self recording and set it up before going into the booth.

Chapter 33

Kev, Jenn, Taz and I sat at a long table while Johnny and Donna Wright were in another room discussing our Demo with a few other Record Companies. I fiddled with the choker that AJ had given me and stared down at the shiny table.

“Hey, chin up… look confident” Kev whispered to me with a smile. I took a breath, stopped fiddling and held my head high, turning to him with a hesitant smile

“How’s this?” I asked. He laughed and nodded.

“Just calm down, ok?” He said softly to all 3 of us. I needed a cigarette and a VERY strong coffee. Johnny and Donna came back in with the Jive Reps behind them, but no one else entered. Kev smiled at them.

“Kevin, you’re the manager correct?” Asked one of the reps. I think his name was Kyle.

“That’s right” Kev answered

“Have you fully explained to the girls what a 3 Album Contract is all about?” He asked

“Not in full, but they uinderstand parts” Kev replied with a nod

“Well, while you’re taking them out to celebrate, you can explain exactly what it is. If you’d all like to meet back here at say 12:30 tomorrow we’ll have the contract drawn up and we can discuss an album” The guy was saying. I turned my head to look at Jenn and Taz, who were clutching each others arms, grins spreading across their faces.

“Tat sounds excellent right ladies?” Kev asked

“Tomorrow, is great” I grinned.

“Well we’ll see you tomorrow” The guy said holding out his hand. Kev stood and started shaking everyone’s hand, I thought we’d better do the same so I also stood and shook everyone’s hands, saying thank you while they congratulated us. Thankfully Jenn and Taz followed suit. When we were outside Kev grinned at us and raised an eyebrow. I’d started shaking and was now having trouble lighting my cigarette, when it was finally lit I drew right back and looked at Jenn and Taz.

“I think we just got a record deal” I said

“You think?” Taz asked. We all started laughing and Kev gave each of us a hug.

“Congratulations” He said.  We went to a little Italian restaurant for a celebratory lunch with AJ and Nick and than Nick and Taz drifted off somewhere. Jenn and Kev were having a hard time keeping their hands off each other.

“I guess you guys can come back to my place and do your thang” AJ suggested with a shrug as we all ordered more drinks

“Our thang?” Jenn asked

“Well you can’t go to Kev’s and you got no where else to go, unless you wanna do it in public” He said. I chuckled and sipped my coke. I was still a little shell shocked from the meeting this morning. We didn’t stay there for much longer, just long enough to finish our drinks nad pay the bill and than we went back to AJ’s house. Kev and Jenn immediately disappeared into one of the downstairs spare bedrooms while AJ and I went and sat out on the deck in the warm sun.

“This is gonna be really difficult” I said as we sat on his swing chair. He was sitting kind of behind me, with his feet up on the opposite side with his arms around me and I was sitting with my feet propped on the railings. He was kissing my neck gently and I couldn’t help but smile.

“What is?” He asked

“Us, now that we’re getting a record deal” I answered

“We could probably rig it so that Backstreet Rides the Dysfunct Tour, or we might not go back on tour for a while and I can travel with you. It will suit Kev and Jenn, him being the manager he’ll have to tour with you” He said

“True. I wonder if Kris has any idea” I wondered

“If she had any idea hell would be freezing over” He chuckled

“Will you really tour with us?” I asked

“Uh huh” He replied, placing gentle kisses on my shoulder

“Will we have to have a bus between the 3 of us?” I asked.

“Yup” He said with a laugh

“And Kev too?” I asked

“I’m not sure, it depends” He said

“Well, no doubt Nick will tour too. That’s gonna be quite a crowd” I said thoughtfully

“well there’s 6 bunks, we’re only gonna need one” He said. Taz and Nick will only need one and well, Kev and Jenn will only need one if they decide to do stuff on tour. I doubt Kev will though with Nick and Taz around, or does Taz already know?” He asked

“I think she know’s but is turning a blind eye. Nick won’t know, Taz is pretty good with secrets” I said. We were both quiet for a little while, just enjoying each others company when AJ’s landline started ringing.

“Can you get that?” He asked me. I laughed and stood up, going inside. I grabbed up the receiver and pressed the talk button.

“Hello?” I said cheerfully

“Uhh, hello who is this?” Came a lady’s voice

“This is Jaime Cobain” I said

“Jaime. You must be the one Alex talks about. This is Denise McLean” She said

“Oh, Mrs McLean, I’ll put AJ on for you” I said

“Thank you” She said. I put the phone down and went to the door.

“AJ, it’s your mum” I said

“Hmm, ok” He said and stood up. Giving me a quick kiss as he went past. He sat up on the counter and picked up the phone, greeting his mother and grinning at me. I grinned and went into the living room where he had a big tv set up. Not as big as his theatre though, that was awesome. I sat down on a day bed and flicked the tv on, flipping through the channels until I came to MTV News. I heard AJ laughing about something and smiled.

“Coming up next on MTV News, Is Backstreet Boy, AJ McLean dating rebel guitarist, Jaime Cobain of Dysfunct and do they suit?” Said the reporter person. I raised my eyebrows and went into the kitchen.

“AJ” I said. He looked at me

“Hang on mom” He said and covered the receiver

“They’re talking about us on MTV News” I said to him

“Ok, I’ll be there in a minute” He said. I nodded and went back in, making myself comfortable on the day bed again. He came in a second later and sat on the edge, beside me.

“What’s the headline?” He asked

“Is Backstreet Boy AJ McLean dating rebel guitarist, Jaime Cobain of Dysfunct and do they suit?” I repeated

“Hmm, should be interesting” He said. We watched silently as the end of the latest Gwen Stefani film clip finished and the news updates came on.

“The are rumours going around that AJ McLean of the Backstreet Boys is dating 19 year old guitarist, Jaime Cobain of the new band Dysfunct. As these pictures, taken at an LA studio last week, show the two are extremely close” Came the girls voice as the picture of AJ and I kissing came up on the screen. I sat up and stared closely at the tv. AJ picked up my hand and gave it a squeeze.

“When asked people had different views on the relationship, some saying they were a good couple, others saying that not only was Dysfunct music bad, but Jaime was not suited to AJ and far too young for him” the chick said. My mouth dropped open and AJ started searching for the remote.

“Leave it” I said softly, still in shock.

“Here’s what one Anti-Jaime fan had to say on the situation” The chick said and the screen flashed to the street where a girl was standing beside a guy.

“No, I hate her, I think she’s a try hard slut and I think AJ could do so much better than her” Was what she said. I stood up and walked away.

“Baby” AJ called after me, following me into the kitchen

“What the fuck was THAT?” I asked, trying to understand what I’d just seen

“Babe, it’s a little bit of bad press, it doesn’t matter, you just have to ignore stuff like that” AJ said, pulling me into a hug.

“How can we get bad press? We havne’t even signed the fucking contract” I said

“We had a lot of bad press before we even started doing shows” He said, rubbing my back

“What makes our music so bad? We hacen’t sung many of our own songs, mostly covers” I said

“A lot of people don’t like cover bands” He shrugged. I sighed and clung on to him, not sure what to think. The phone started ringing and AJ reached over and picked it up, still holding on to me.

Chapter 34

3 weeks ago Dysfunct had signed a 3 album contract with Jive Records, Jenn Taz and I were now walking through a shopping centre looking for costumes for Nicks ‘congratulations on the record deal’ bash that night. Jenn was going as French Maid and we were searching for the finishing touch, a feather duster, before we started on Taz’s clown costume. I was still trying to decide what to go as.

“How about you go as a monkey?” Taz suggested as we waited for Jenn to come out of the changing rooms

“What? No!” I said shoving her playfully

“An elephant?” Came Jenn’s voice

“Are you calling me fat?” I asked keeping a straight face. All 3 of us started laughing at exactly the same time. I’d told both of them about the MTV thing and they didn’t seem to care as much as me, which was ok, they took my mind off it.

“What about a Western Show Girl and a Gun SLinger” I said after a while

“Hey, that’d be hott” Jenn said hanging the coat back on the rack and getting a different size. I got out my mobile and dialled AJ’s number.

“Hello?” Came Brian’s voice

“Hey Rok, is Jay there?” I asked

“Sure thing chicka” He said and I heard him say something

“Hey baby” Came AJ’s voice

“Hey, where are you?” I asked

“We’re all still at the food court” He said

“Have you thought of a costume?” I asked

“I was thinking The Jetsons or Mickey and Minnie” He said

“Oh. What about Western Showgirl and Gun SLinger?” I asked him

“Oh baby that sounds awesome” He said and I pictured the grin spreading across his face and grinned myself.

“You wanna go find our costumes?” I asked him

“Yeah! Of course. Where are you?” He asked

“I’m jus about to start walkin towards the food court” I said

“I’ll meet you half way?” he asked

“Ok, lemme say goodbye to the girls first” Is aid

“Ok” He said. I put the phone down by my side and smiled at my friends guiltily

“Go, we’ll be fine” Jenn insisted

“Sorry” I said

“Meh, who cares” Taz said with a shrug and a grin

“I’ll call you when we’re finished to see if you need help still” I said

“Ok” They both said,. I gave them each a hug and returned to phone to my ear as I headed out of the shop.

“Ok I’m on my way” I said

“I’m jus walking post the pharmacy” He said

“Do you really like this idea?” I asked him

“Hell yeah, we’re gonna look hott” He said

“Don’t we always?” I asked. He chuckled. I saw him walking towards me, his cap on backwards, his shirt half un-tucked, his jeans low on his hips and his freehand in his pocket, while the other held the phone to his ear. He had a cute smile on his face.

“I have a confession to make” I said to him

“MM? what’s that?” He asked

“There’s a guy walking towards me. He’s hotter than hell” I said softly

“Oh yeah? Does he make you horny?” Came his reply

“I’m getting wetter as he get’s closer” I whispered. He looked up and spotted me straight away. His smile had grown and he’d pushed his sunglasses up on top of his cap.

“Well I have my own confession” He said

“Yeah?” I asked

“Yeah. I can see this absolutely gorgeous woman in a tank and baggy jeans and, baby she’s makin me hard” He said and growled. Shivers went down my spine and I grinned and watched him come closer. Someone called out to him and he stopped dead in his tracks, his face paled.

“Oh shit” He muttered

“What?” I asked, starting towards him

:”Stay there” He instructed. I stopped and looked at him curiously

“Who is it?” I asked

“Katie” He answered

“Oh” I said. He started walking again and half smiled at me.

“I’m gonna try and ignore her” He said

“Ok, but I’m gonna hang up now” I said

“Ok” He said. I hung up my phone, as did he and dropped it back in my pocket. I walked over to him and he pulled me into a hug. Again someone called out to him. I looked over his shoulder and it was indeed Katie calling out to him.

“Come on” He said letting me go, but entwining our fingers. I smiled and let him lead me through the shopping centre.

“Where are we goin?” I asked curiously

“I know this Costume shop, it has a heap of stuff that we could look at” He said

“AJ” Said Katie as she caught up to us

“Katie, go away I’m busy” He said as we kept walking

“You don’t look busy, stay and chat” She said

“No really, we’re busy” AJ insisted

“Doing what?” She asked

“Finding a broom closet so we can have a root” I piped up with a smile. AJ chuckled and nodded.

“True” he said to Katie, who was still walking with us

“What’s a root?” She asked him quietly

“My god yankee’s are dumb” I murmured loud enough for her to hear

“AJ’s a yankee” She said

“Oh, no, AJ became an Australian when we rooted at my place back in Tamworth” I said, nodding. I was trying to be as serious as possible and not get upset, which was proving difficult

“You’re new girl is rather stupid” Katie said in her ditzy voice

“I managed to snag your ex didn’t I?” I asked her. She stopped, AJ and I kept walking.

“Well done” AJ chuckled

“She’s gonna go to the press now right?” I asked

“Probably, but who cares?” He asked as we emerged in the underground car park. I stopped. He turned to face me and smiled.

“What’s up?” He asked

“Would now be a bad time to tell you that I desperately need to kiss you” I asked

“No, now would be perfect” he said stepping closer to me. I smiled and slipped my arms around his shoulders as I pressed my lips against his. I couldn’t get over how soft and tender his kisses were, and how much I loved the way he held me. With both his arms wrapped tightly around me and our bodies pressed close together. When I broke the kiss he leaned his forehead against mine and smiled.

“Let’s go get dressed up” He whispered

“Ok” I answered. He smiled again and took my hand as we walked to his car, which wasn’t parked far away. On the drive to this vintage shop we talked about the Dysfunct album and then Love Shack came on the radio.

“Oh my god, do you know what would be funny?” I asked as I turned it up a little

“what?” He asked, glancing at me

“If you and I did a cover of this” I grinned. He laughed and nodded.

“That could be fun. We should think about that. Maybe a Jaime and JNN duet

or even a Dysfunct and JNN duet” He said

“That’d be hott” I grinned

“Maybe we should save that one for your second album, cos you’re already doing a Backstreet and Dysfunct duet” He said

“Yeah. I was thinking maybe we should do Forever Rebel on the album and than have it as our first single, what do you think?” I asked

“Yeah that’d be good” He said as he pulled the car into a park out the front of a quaint little shop with old dresses and suits in the windows. We got out and he locked the car before we walked up to the door. He pushed it open and held it for me, smiling. I smiled back and stepped in, immediately taking in the rows of dresses and the rows of suits and the cabinets of props.

“Oh wow” I breathed, looking around.

“I’m sorry we won’t have anything that fits you” Said the old lady sitting behind the counter

“I’m sorry?” I asked. I wasn’t exactly skinny, but I sure as hell wasn’t fat. AJ was staring at her open mouthed.

“Our sizes range from extra small to small, we don’t have anything that would fit you” The lady said. I looked down at myself and than looked at the lady.

“Come on” AJ said pulling me out of the shop.

“Am I fat?” I asked him

“No, you’re perfect” He said holding on to both my hands

“Maybe I could lose a little weight” I said

“No, you don’t need too because you’re gorgeous. Now come on, let’s go have a look at the other place I know” He said. I nodded and got in the car. The drive was silent, and AJ kept glancing at me. The lady’s words were rolling through my head and I began to feel sick. I told myself that I was being stupid and sighed.

“Cheer up babe” AJ said to me. I turned my head and smiled at him. He pulled into a carpark and started to get out. I took a deep breath and got out. He came over to me and put his arm around my shoulder as we walked into another costume place. The guy behind the counter smiled warmly at us, but I was no mood to smile back. AJ tugged my hand and I followed him over to a rack of western clothing.

“You still wanna be a hooker baby?” He asked with a grin. I half smiled.

“Yeah I spose” I answered. He pulled a dress off the rack and held it up in front of me.

“You’d look hott in this” He said. I shrugged. He smiled and threw it over his arm. I started absently flicking through the costumes and found a Gunslinger set.

“What about this?” I asked him pulling it out

“Oh yeah, that’s awesome” He said taking it off me. He turned to the guy and I think he grinned cos the guy chuckled.

“Can we try these on please?” He asked

“Sure go ahead” He said. We went over to the change room and AJ handed me the set of clothes. I smiled and went in closing the curtain. I stared at the Western Show Girl dress and sighed. As I undressed I stared at myself in the mirror and decided that I did look a little more fat than I should’ve. I quickly put on the dress and the head dress and studied myself for a minute.

“You ready?” AJ asked

“Yeah” I answered

“On the count of 3 we’ll both come out” He said

“Ok” I answered. He counted to 3 and I stepped out. He stood in front of me. He looked positively gorgeous.

“Wow” I breathed. He smiled as he looked me over

“You look hott” He said. I smiled and nodded.

“So do you” I answered

“Twirl” He instructed. I laughed and turned in a slow circle. He whistled and I heard the guy at the counter applauding us.

“We’ll have to  get some accessories” I said

“Yeah, but that shouldnb’t be too hard, we are in a costume shop” He said. I laughed again and nodded. For the next hour we looked for accessories and than eventually hired the costumes. As we left I called Taz, who said they’d gotten her outfit and were now waiting at AJ’s house for us.

Chapter 35

Mine and AJ’s costumes proved to be a hit at the party, with everyone commenting on them.  AJ, Jenn, Nick, Taz and I were standing in a group, talking.

“Wanna dance?”?” Nick asked Taz

“Not right now” Taz answered with a smile

“Ohh Nicky, you got shot down baby” I grinned. I was a little tipsy and therefore enjoying myself, I’d so far managed to avoid the food table.

“Shut it” Nick said

“Gimme something to shut it around and I will” I said with a wink. All eyes fell on Jenn.

“You’re a bad influence on my girlfriend” AJ said

“Moi? Why Monsieur, I could never be bad” She said in an innocent voice with a French accent

“Says the girl in the French Maid costume” Taz said as she burst out laughing

“If you bend over, we can see the little devil Tattoo’s on your butt cheeks” She added.

“Devil Tattoos?” Kev asked as he joined the group

“Oh yeah, she has 2 devil tattoos. One on each of her butt cheeks. She got them done just after she got the nickname Sin” I nodded, seriously. Jenn, Taz and I started laughing.

“So, no Devil tats?” Nick asked

“No, there’s no devil tats” Taz said to him

“So Jenn and Taz have one, why don’t you?” Kev asked me

“Mega fear of needles” I said with a smile

“Would you come get one with me?” AJ asked

“I’ll come and watch” I said.

“You know what we should do tomorrow?” I asked, looking at Jenn and Taz. Kev was whispering something in Jenn’s ear and she was grinning but she looked at me and nodded.

“I think we should have a jam” I said

“What about sumjam?” Taz asked

“No, not sumjam, just a jam” I said with a laugh

“Let’s do it” Jenn grinned

“AJ, can we use your livingroom?” I asked

“Baby, I can go you one better, you can use my entertainment room” He said. I don’t think I’d seen it so I gave him a puzzled look.

“It’s been a very long time since I’ve been down there, but i converted my basement into an entertainment room, it’s got a bar, which has alcohol, Kev has the key to the lock on those doors, and it has a little stage thing and it has a snooker table and couches” He said

“Wow, ok, we’ll use that” I said

“Why don’t we make a big thing of it, like a get together, except on a smaller scale” Nick suggested. Everyone cracked up, he looked at us and I saw the blush rising to his cheeks

“Nicky, you can’t have a big thing on a small scale” Taz pointed out gently

“You know what I mean”  He said

“Nicks right, why don’t we all get together tomorrow, Me and AJ will cook tonnes of Pancakes and we’ll have breakfast, with everyone, Kris, Leigh, Bri, Baylee if they wanna bring him, Howie and all of us” I said. I got evil looks of both Jenn and Kev

“You don’t HAVE to bring anyone” I pointed out

“That sounds awesome, let’s do it” Jenn grinned

“Better make it around 10-ish, gives us a chance to be up and half awake” AJ said

“Will your drums fit in Nicks car?” I asked Taz

“We can take the Durango” Nick said

“Oh ok cool, Jenn where are you staying tonite?” I asked her

“With you guys, if that’s ok” She said

“That’s ok” AJ smiled

“Where’s your bass?” I asked her

“At our place” Nick said

“Can you bring that too?” I asked. He nodded. Taz was grinning up at him

“We need amps” Jenn said

“I’ve got a heap you can use” AJ said

“Yay, I’m all excited” I grinned. We talked for a little longer about tomorrow and than everyone went their separate ways, leaving AJ and I standing together.

“You want another drink?” He asked me, nodding to the nearly empty bottle of Corona in my hand

“Yeah, please” I said. He smiled and started towards the bar,

“Can you see Kristin?” Jenn asked quietly as she came over to me. I scanned the room and spotted her talking to Leigh

“She’s over there” I said nodding in that direction

“Good” She grinned

“Why?” I aske

“Kev told me to meet him in the VIP area, I just didn’t want Kris, or anyone for that matter, to see” She said

“I think they’re all pretty much occupied” I said. She grinned again and nudged me before walking casually over to the steps up to the VIP area. AJ came back and handed me my beer.

“You see Jenn go up there?” He asked

“Uh huh, Kev’s up there” I said

“Ahh” He said and chuckled

“I hope they don’t ever get caught. It’d be so bad for you guys and can you imagine Bri and Howie’s reactions?” I asked

“Oh jesus, Brian would off his nut, Howie would be… well I think he wouldn’t speak to Kev for a while” He said

“True” I answered

“You wanna dance?” He asked as Hells Bells by AC/SC came on

“Sure” I grinned. He lead me onto the dance floor and we danced for a few songs before I spooted Kris going up to the VIP area. I quickly scanned the room and saw neither Jenn  or Kev.

“I’ll be back” I yelled as I started running across the room. When I reached the stairs I saw Kris nearing the top

“Kris, hey Kris” I called out. She turned around and half smiled at me

“Yeah?” She asked

“I jus wanted to comment on your costume, I didn’t get a chance too before, it’s really cool” I said

“Thanks” She grinned

“Where you off too?” I asked

“Oh, I’m lookin for Kev, I’m kinda tired and I think I’ve had too mucyh to drink” She said

“Oh, I think he went outside to get some fresh air” I said

“Oh, ok thanks” She said and started back down the stairs. When she was weaving her way through the crowd to the exit I continued up the stairs and pushed aside some of the drapes. Kev and Jenn were both frantically getting dressed.

“I just saved your butts” I said

“Thank you so so so much” Jenn said

“You guys are naughty” I said before starting back towards the stairs

“Where did she go?” Kev asked

“Outside” I answered over my shoulder. I went down the stairs and over to AJ who was now requesting a song or something.

“Where’d you run off too?” He asked me as we walked over to a vacant couch

“I just ahd to save Jenn and Kev from being caught” I answered. Kev came down first and smiled at me before going out the back exit. Jenn came down 10 minutes later and came over to us, sitting beside me

“That was fucken close” She said

“That’ll teach you to do it while we’re around so many people” AJ grinned. She sighed and shook her head. As the night wore on, Jenn, Taz and I got increasingly drunk and I don’t remember the trip home or AJ undressing me and putting me to bed. I do remember waking up in the middle of the night and only JUST making it to the bathroom before I threw up. I also remember AJ stumbling in and rubbing my back and keeping my hair out of my face. I fell even more in love with him right than, if it was at all possible.

Chapter 36

When I got up the following day, other than an upset stomach I felt fun, but damn I was hungry. I quickly pulled on a pair of jeans and a top and went downstairs where Taz was carefully setting up her drums, while Jenn and Kev were talking on the couch.

“Morning sunshine” Taz said cheerfully. I noticed she had her hair done in the mullet, she’d been promising me for ages.

“Morning Tara” I answered with a grin

“Oh you’re not sick” She said

“Nope, had my chuck last nite” I grinned

“Jai, thank god you’re here I need to talk to you” Jenn said

“Well of course I’m here, where else would I be?” I asked

“I don’t know, but I really need to talk to you” She said

“Ok” I said

“In a while, I’m starved” She said. I laughed and shrugged at Kev who was looking at me curiously. I stepped up onto the small stage type thing and started plugging in cables and leads. I tuned Jenn’s bass and my guitar and than followed Taz and Kev into the kitchen where AJ was busily making pancakes. Brian arrived with Leighanne behind him and Baylee in his arms

“Hey you need some help?” I asked AJ wrapping my arms around him from behind

“Nah, I’ve got Nick helping me” He said. I looked over to see Nick concentrating hard on whipping some cream. The look on his face was gorgeous.

“Is it ready?” I asked him

“I dunno” He shrugged. I looked at the bowl and saw that it was in fact ready.

“It’s done” I said to him. He grinned proudly and shut off the mixer. I laughed and shoved him playfully out of the road. He laughed and watched with interest as I cleaned off the beaters and carefully gave the cream a stir with a plastic spatula.

“Breakfast is served” AJ said as he stacked up pancakes on plates.

“Thanks” I said kissing his cheek as I grabbed a plate and went over to the table. We all sat down and started reaching for syrup, jam, cream, sugar and things like that as we talked to each other. Although my stomach was grumbling I only ate 3 pancakes.

“Aren’t you hungry?” AJ asked me

“No, not really… sorry” I lied. He smiled and took my plate away. The guys cleaned up while Leigh and Baylee said good bye to everyone and left and Taz, Jenn and I went down to the entertainment room.

“Oh shit, I left my phone upstairs” Taz groaned, Jenn and I laughed as she ran back up the stairs.

“Hey Jai” Jenn said as we sat on the edge of the stage

“Mmm” I answered, swigging the can of coke I’d gotten out of the fridge

“I think I might be pregnant” She said in a low voice. I choked on the drink and she had to slap me on the back a few times. When I’d calmed down I turned to her and stared.

“Are you serious?” I asked

“Would I joke about something as serious as this?” She retorted, glaring at me

“Kev?” I asked. She nodded.

“How long?” I asked

“it’s been 3 weeks” She said

“Well. We’re gonna have to go out later, you and me” I said. She smiled and gave me a quick hug. Taz and the guys filed down the steps and Jenn gave me a look. I smiled back, to reassure her that I wasn’t about to say anything. Jenn  and I stood up and stepped onto the stage and Taz climbed behind her drumkit.

“Intro” AJ and Nick chanted. Jenn nudged me and nodded.

“Hello everyone, my name is Jaime, that’s Sin, that’s Taz, we are Dysfunct and we’re here to play some songs for you. But before I get started, I’d like to say a great big hello to Taz’s hair today, it looks fabulous daaarling. Another big hello to our manager Mr Kevin Richardson, yes you know which one he is ladies, the tall dark handsome sex god right over” I said pointing. AJ pouted at me

“And who can forget of course my gorgeous lover, the god of all sex gods, Alexander McLean” I said. The guys, who were laughing now all clapped and cheered.

“We’re gonna play a little song for you now, it’s called ‘Free Beer’” I said and stepped away from the mic and turned to Taz who nodded and counted us in. The song started off slow and Taz was playing an easy drumbeat. I counted 8 counts before joining in with a gentle guitar riff at the same time as Jenn played the riff on her bass. It was Taz who sung first, Jenn and I joining in with a few church choir harmonies. I knew the rock bit was coming up and I prepared myself for it, watching as AJ took a shot on the snooker table and sunk 3 at once. Taz finished singing and Jenn and I did one more harmony before all 3 of us went from church music to full on rock in a matter of seconds. All 4 guys turned and looked. I winked at AJ and smiled. He grinned back. I stepped up to the microphone and started singing in the growl I’d practised since the age of 13. No one looked more bewildered than Kev, of all people. When I was finished the song went back to the slow church music but this time all 3 of us sang in harmony. When it was over we stopped, cos my guitar sounded a little bit off.

“That was an amazing song” Brian said to us

“We wrote it when we went to a party and the beer was free. Hence the title Free Beer” I grinned, tuning my guitar again

“I love that growl you did” Nick grinned

“Thanks Nickers!” I replied and strummed my guitar. It sounded right now.. Jenn waved me over and I stepped over the cables to get to her.

“We should do Wipe Out” She said

“Why don’t we sing a few songs first and than shock the hell out of them” Taz suggested. Jenn and I grinned. We decided to sing American Hero next. It was Jenn’s song and we all got teary when we sang it. It was about her little sister who is a Soldier. The guys stopped their game to listen. After American Hero we did another of our own songs,  24 Hours Away From Civilisation, Which Taz and I wrote in the backseat of Jenn’s car when we went on a road trip with her and Brett, Jenn’s ex boyfriend. It was a funny song that didn’t really have much singing, just a clever drumk beat, bass line and guitar riff. We basically had a conversation and that was the song. When we were done, the guys were basically pissing themselves laughing. Our next 2 songs were Holiday and Forever Rebel and than I mimed ‘Wipe Out’ to them both. All 3 of us grinned as Taz started playing the familiar drum beat and Jenn joined in with the bass. I finally joined in with the guitar and AJ dropped his cuestick All 4 of them gawked at us with open mouths. It took us a year to get it sounding right and now we played it up, showing off whenever we could. Jenn leaned close to her mic and grinned.

“Fella’s you under estimate us” She grinned. I laughed and turned to Taz who was getting right into it. All 3 of us new that it took more than good rhythm and coordination to play Wipe Out so we always rewarded ourselves when we were finished. Today when we were finished we didn’t reward ourselves. The guys rewarded us. All 4 of them went off. We got off the stage and went over to them and watched them play Snooker for a while, as we drank coke and talked about the album we’d start recording within the next 2 months.

Chapter 37

Jenn went to a doctor today to see if she was indeed pregnant. Turns out she was. She’s 11 weeks along now. She still hadn’t told Kev, but they were still seeing each other every chance they could. Jenn and I were sitting out in the backyard on a blanket in the sun while AJ and Kev were inside talking about stuff.

“I’m gonna tell him today” She said

“Good. He deserves to know” I said

“Will you sit with me?” She asked

“If you want me too” I answered

“I’m scared” She said with a bit of a laugh

“Well don’t be. It’ll be fine” I answered giving her hand a squeeze

“If he asks me to abort it I’m gonna tell him to get fucked” She said

“Don’t tell hi to get fucked, just tell him it’s against your beliefs” I replied. At that exact moment there was a big crash from the house and we were both up and running. I got through the door first and saw AJ with Kev pushed against the wall.

“AJ what the hell?” I said, looking at them. Kev was looking bewildered but when Jenn came in he looked at her and frowned at her.

“What’s going on?” She demanded

“How could you lie to us all like that?” AJ was saying

“I didn’t lie! I’m sterile” Kev retorted

“Oh jesus” Jenn said. I spun around in time to see her lean on the counter and shake her head.

“For fuck sake AJ let him go” I snapped

“He fucking lied to us” AJ snapped back

“No he didn’t lie. He probably did think he was sterile” Jenn spoke up

“The doctor told me” Kev blurted

“So the baby it’s not mine. It can’t be” He added

“Well guess what sunshine I haven’t fucked anyone else in the past 11 weeks” Jenn snapped. Anger filled Kev’s eyes and he shoved AJ away. AJ simply punched him.

“STOP IT!” I yelled. Did either of them take notice. No. Kev went for AJ and AJ went for Kev.

“You 2 are fucking psycho” I said as I stepped between them, pushing on their chests. Kevs cheek was bruising where AJ hit him and AJ’s knuckles were bleeding.

“Sit the fuck down before I knock you down” I said looking between them. Kev turned away and sat at the counter. AJ went and leaned near the stove. Jenn and I stood together in between them both.

“What the fuck is going on?” I asked gently. No one spoke.

“You know what? Fuck ya’s both we’re going out” I said starting to walk away.

“Wait” Kev said. I stopped and turned back around.

“The doctor told me before I married Kristin that I couldn’t have kids” He said looking down. Jenn looked like she was about to burst.

“There’s been no one else since Howie and I broke up. Only you” She said to him.

“You to sort it out. AJ” I said, giving AJ a look before snatching up his car keys and walking from the room. I heard AJ follow me and kept walking towards the door.

“I need my wallet” He mumbled angrily and I heard him go back into the kitchen, say something and come back out carrying his wallet. When we were in the car he looked at me. I looked back.

“Where are we going?” He asked

“Anywhere” I said. He nodded and started the car. As we started driving we bother remained quiet. He drove around for a while before coming to a stop near a park.

“We may as well get out” He said. I nodded and got out. He locked the car and started walking on to the grass, I followed. He lowered himself to the ground and looked up at me.

“Are you gonna sit?” He asked. I sat down beside him and leaned back on my hands

“Are you angry?” He asked softly

“Not really” I answered

“You’re not?” He asked

“nope. I thought you looked hott with him up against the wall. You looked so tough and strong and it gave me tingles” I grinned. He laughed and lay down. I lay beside him, supporting myself on my elbow and looking at him.

“You wanna go out tonight?” He asked

“How about we stay in” I said leaning down and kissing him gently

“Staying in sounds fine” He murmured. I chuckled and sat up, eyeing the play equipment.

“Do you know what I haven’t done for years?” I asked

“What?” He answered

“Played on playground equipment” I said. He laughed

“God I haven’t done that for about 12 years” He said

“Let’s go play” I grinned

“Race ya” He grinned back. We were both up and running in about 2 seconds flat. I hurdled a bin and stumbled a little, but kept running. We were both pissing ourselves laughing by the time we reached the equipment. We played on that stuff for about an hour when my mobile started ringing. I got it out of my pocket and checked caller ID. It was AJ’s home phone.

“Hello?” I asked

“Jai, we’re done now, you can come home” Jenn said

“Ok we’re on our way” I said

“Cya” She said

“Toodles” I said and hung up

“They done?” AJ asked. He was sitting on top of the slide. He looked so funny.

“Yup, let’s go home” I said. He grinned and slid down. When he hit the bottom he jumped up and came over. He held my hand tightly as we walked back to his car. On the drive home we talked about the Dysfunct/Backstreet Duet and the fact that we were going into the studio to start recording next week. We’d worked out that we’d record about 48 songs over 8 months, releasing Forces Of Nature after about 4 months and than releasing the cd with 15 songs on it sometime during next March. It was going to take a long time but AJ reassured me that it would be fun. During the recording process Jenn was due to have her baby, so as well as recording, I guessed we were going to look around for an apartment somewhere in LA so she’d have somewhere to stay while we were doing the album. When we arrived Kev’s car was still there.

“You gonna go beat him up again?” I asked AJ

“No” He said

“Good” I replied as we got out. I followed him up to the door and he pushed it open, going in. Kev and Jenn were sitting on the couch talking and laughing. AJ went up the stairs and disappeared. I sat down on the other side of Kev and leaned on him.

“Are we one big happy family now?” I asked

“Kinda” Jenn piped up

“Kinda?” I repeated

“We’re gonna tell everyone that it happened when I had a one night stand, but Kev is gonna have a part of the baby’s life as an uncle, like the other guys” Jenn said. Kev nodded nad smiled.

“And the affair?” I asked

“Over” Kev said with a half smile

“Kris?” I prompted

“She’s not gonna know” Kev said

“Well you guys have it all worked out. Good on ya’s” I grinned

“I’d better go, before AJ kicks me out” Kev said and stood up

“Cya dude” I said

“Bye Kev” Jenn smiled. Kev smiled back at her and waved.

“I”ll talk to you both later” He said and called out goodbye to AJ. AJ’s reply sounded forced. I looked at Jenn with my eyebrows raised. She looked back.

“What?” She asked

“So it’s over, just like that” I said

“Well yeah” She said

“Ok” I said

“Jason called me last night” She said

Chapter 38

We were in the studio with the 5 guys recording Forces Of Nature today. Taz and Nick hadn’t shown up yet though and neither had Jenn and Jason. I was Watching AJ singing part of his bit and I saw the concentration and emotion on his face. It was overwhelming. It was the same with all 5 guys. The concentration and emotion was amazing. He finished up and listened to what the producer, Mike Manning, was saying and nodded. He came out and grinned at me.

“You’re up baby” He said. I nodded and spat out my chewing gum before going into the studio. AJ and I were singing together for this part. But we had to record them separately because AJ’s voice was more powerful than mine and they have to do something to my voice while I was recording or something. You’d think that if his voice was more powerful than mine we wouldn’t sound good together, but according to Mike and everyone else our voices fitted perfectly. As I was singing Taz, Nick, Jenn and Jason must’ve arrived because when I was done and I went out they were all apologising to Mike for being late. Taz had a fairly wide, white streak down the middle of her head and I couldn’t help but laugh. She grinned at me.

“Guys, it’s fine, but I need to take a break,I’m not feeling one hundred percent” He was saying. He left the room and Nick and Brian sat down at the mixing board.

“Nice hair” I grinned at Taz as she leaned over Nicks shoulder.

“You like?” She asked

“It’s funky” I grinned. She grinned back and turned back to the mixing board which Nick and Bri were playing with.

“Should you be playing with that?” I asked

“ It’s all good” Brian grinned at me. I nodded and went over to AJ who was leaning aginst the wall.

“You sounded good” He said wrapping his arms around me

“Thanks” I grinned. We stood around and talked for a while until Mike came back in and than we kept recording. When we were finished, Dysfunct started recording Free Beer. Howie and Brian had left and it was just AJ, Nick, Kev, Jason and Mike remaining, as well as us. After that Mike had to go because he still wasn’t feeling well so Nick and AJ took over the mixing. They were talking about something to us and I absently started playing the intro to Gay Bar. Although it was mainly 2 guitars we’d worked out that the riff still sounded good on bass and Jenn joined in too and than Taz. Nick raised his eyebrows at me and I grinned. They’d stopped talking and we all stopped.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to start that” I said

“That’s ok, why don’t we record it” Nick suggested. A big grin on his face.

“You know this song?” Taz asked him

“Who doesn’t know it?” He asked

“Me, I have no idea what it is” AJ said. Kev agreed.

“You’ll see” I grinned. Nick gave us the thumbs up and I started the intro. AJ started laughing when he heard the lyrics and I laughed as well, but recovered quick enough to keep going. During the guitar solo and I started laughing and turned around a little bit as I kept playing.

“Hey Taz, remember how I told you that Muggy flushed his undies” I said. Taz cracked up laughing and Jenn chuckled, giving us a weird look. AJ, Nick, Kev and Jason were giving us weird looks. I kept playing the guitar solo and grinned.

“I took our friend Tom Munro to Sydney with me before I moved here and we went out well we went to a gay bar and he got really sick and shat himself while he was throwing up and he flushed his undies” I said. Now everyone was laughing. Taz some how managed to sing the last verse without cracking up too much.

“I think that can be a bonus track” Kev suggested with a laugh, when we’d finished. We called it quits after that and went our separate ways. Jenn and Jason were staying with AJ and I and we’d already decided to go out for tea. As soon as we got inside Jenn and I disappeared up stairs. AJ had told us to dress fairly formal and since we hadn’t had any time to go shopping we’d had to make do with what we had. Which wasn’t much. We were going through Jenn’s wardrobe trying to find something to wear for her when my mobile started ringing.

“Hello” I said cheerfully

“Jai” Said Adam

“Adam? What the hell?” I asked

“Don’t sound so surprised”” He chuckled

“You never call me!” I said

“Well now I am. Jane is sick” He said

“How sick?” I asked cautiously

“She’s just sick and needs to get away from certain people” He said

“have you rang Taz?” I asked. Jenn was watching me curiously

“She didn’t answer her phone” He said

“Ok, well umm, shit” I said

“She’s ok, she’s staying with me for a couple of days, but I jus thought I should let you know” He said

“I’m gonna go and talk to AJ and I’ll call you back in about half an hour” I said

“Ok, why do you need to talk to him?” He asked

“I just do, I’ll call you back” I said

“Ok” He answered

“Talk soon” I said

“Cya Jai” He said

“Bye” I repeated and hung up, jogging towards the door

“Jaime, what’s happened?” Jenn asked

“Jane is sick” I answered. I was really worried about her. The last time she’d gotten sick she’d nearly died. I had an idea what was wrong with her. As I jogged down the stairs I hit 7 on my speed dial and waited. Her phone went to the answering machine.

“Damnit Taz, Jane is sick!” I said and hung up. I ran into AJ who was coming into the living room.

“Hey are you ok?” He asked me, as I stumbled backwards. He caught me and held me up

“I’m ok, I just need to borrow some money” I said

“Sure, always, how much?” He asked getting out his wallet

“Enough for 2 people to fly to America and live comfortably for a month or so” I said. He grinned and nodded.

“I can organise it all tomorrow while you’re in the studio” He said, giving me a hug.

“Thank you so, so much” I said, relief sweeping through my body

“Anything for you” He whispered kissing my head. I gave him a quick kiss and answered my phone, which ahd started ringing.

“Yeah?” I asked

“Is Jane ok?” Taz asked

“Adam said she was and that she was staying with him for a few days” I said

“Jesus Christ” she said

“AJ is paying for them both to come here” I said

“Oh thank fuck” She said with a sigh

“Whether or not Adam will come is an entirely different thing” I said

“Ture” She answered

“I gotta go so I can call him back” I said

“Ok” She said

“I’ll talk to you tomorrow in the studio and I’ll tell you what’s going on” I said

“Ok” She said. We said goodbye and hung up. AJ held out the house phone to me and smiled.

“It’s cheaper if you use the home phone” He said

“Oh, thanks” I said and dialled adams number, waiting.

“Hello” He said

“Adam, hey” I answered

“That wasn’t half an hour” He said

“Yeah well I lied. You wanna come to the US for a while?” I asked

“Hell yeah, when?” He asked

“AJ’s organising it tomorrow, You and Jane are both being paid for” I said

“Oh ok, well I’ll pay you back when I get there” He said

“No it’s ok, I’ll pay AJ back for you” I said

“Umm, ok” He said

“AJ will probably call you tomorrow because I’ll be in the studio, but it’s ok, he doesn’t bite” I said

“Ok” He said

“Can I talk to Jane?” I asked

“She’s sleeping” He said

“Oh, ok, tell her I said get better and give her a hug for me” I said

“I will” He answered

“Thanks Adam” I said

“It’s ok, I’ll talk to you later” He said

“Yep, cya” I replied. He hung up and I leaned against the wall, staring at nothing in particular.

Needless to say that night out at dinner I didn’t enjoy myself and my thoughts kept coming straight back to Jane and whether or not she’ll be ok. AJ gave me reassuring hugs all night and it made me slightly more relaxed, though I couldn’t help feeling scared and uneasy about it.

Chapter 39

Taz and I were waiting at the airport, waiting for the plane that Adam and Jane were on to arrive. We just heard an announcement that it was delayed by an hour.

“You excited?” I asked her

“Hell yes!” She answered. I grinned. Her, Adam and Jane had been friends for a lot longer than I’d known them, so I understood her excitement. Of course I was excited too, and glad that their visa’s had been granted. But at the same time I was worried they wouldn’t enjoy themselves.

“Ima go get a drink, you want one?” She asked

“I’ll have a coke” I said

“No beer?” She asked

“I’m driving remember?” I asked

“Oh, yeah, bugger” She said with a grin. I laughed and watched her go. I grabbed out my phone and dialled Jenn’s number, waiting.

“Hello” Came Jason’s voice

“hey Jas, Jenn busy?” I asked

“Nope I’ll put her on” He said

“Thanks” I said

“Whatcha doin?” Came Jenn’s voice a second later

“I’m sitting in the airport waiting for Taz to bring me coke, what are you doing?” I answered

“Jason and I are talking about the baby” She said. She sounded genuinely happy and I smiled

“Jawesome” I answered

“What did you call for?” She asked

“Was wondering if you wanted to come out with us tonight, if Adam and Jane aren’t too jet-lagged” I said

“What kind of out are we talking about?” She asked

“Dancing, maybe a little bit of Karaoke…” I trailed off

“Oh let’s do that,  Nicky, and AJ and Kev too?” She asked

“Of course” I grinned

“Jas?” She asked

“Hell yes” I replied

“Ok, I’m there, give me a call when you get it sorted” She said

“I certainly will” I grinned. She laughed.

“Cya” She said

“Toodles” I grinned and hung up. Taz came back and handed me a bottle of coke. She also had a coke

“No beer?” I asked

“Wasn’t allowed take it out of the bar area” She said

“Bummer” I said. She shrugged and looked at her watch

“Fuck this is boring” She said

“Uh huh, but we’re going out tonight so it’ll be worth it” I grinned

“We are?” She asked

“Uh huh, provided of course they arne’t too jet-lagged” I said

“Yeah” She said and grinned. I grinned back.

“We’re gonna do karaoke” I said. She laughed and grinned. We sat there talking about a heap of different things as we waited for the plane to land and when it did we stood and walked towards the gate. We both saw Adam at the same time, my eyes travelled to the familiar case over his shoulders and we both turned to each other and grinned.

“He’s brought it” She said

“He can so be the unofficial 4^th member of Dysfunct” I said. She laughed and nodded as we started over to him and Jane, who was behind him. She looked pale and tired and I felt bad for her.

“Hi, my name’s Lola” I said in a deep voice as I sauntered up to Adam. He started laughing and gave me a hug.

“Hey Lola, I’m Dirty Padma” He said,. I laughed and let him go, wrapping my arms around Jane as Taz embraced Adam.

“How are ya?” I asked her

“I’m ok, how are you?” She replied as we pulled away

“I’m good” I said with a smile. Taz now gave Jane a hug and I eyed Adam’s violin case.

“I don’t know why I brought it” He said

“Well we’ll think of something” I said with a grin.

“Let’s go get your stuff so we can get outta here and show you some of the jawesome LA places” Taz said

“Don’t you mean flaces?” Adam asked. The 4 of us cracked up.

“That is so my speech impediment” I said as we grabbed various bags off the carousel.

“True” Taz agreed. We got their bags and loaded it all into AJ’s car. We all climbed in and I turned to face them.

“Where do you wanna go?” I asked

“Could we maybe go back to where ever we’re staying first? So we can freshen up a little?” Jane asked

“Sounds good, now you have to decide where your staying. With me and Taz” I said

“Don’t you live together?” Adam asked

“We did in Wisconsin, but here in LA I’m staying with AJ, Jenn and Jason and Taz moved up here with Nick” I answered

“Maybe it’d be best if they stayed with you cos Nick’s house is only small” Taz said

“Yeah that’s true”

“We’ll stay with you than Jai” Jane said

“Ok, lemme just call AJ” I said getting out my mobile and dialling his number

“Hey babe” Came his reply

“Hey, we’re on our way home” I said

“Do they drink beer?” He asked

“Adam does but Jane tends not to, why?” I asked

“That’s ok, Nick went and bought beer and he paid a mint for a couple of bottles of Bundaberg Rum” AJ said

“Aww he didn’t have to do that” I said

“Well I did” Came Nicks voice

“You’re on speaker phone” AJ said.

“That’s ok, thanks Nicky I owe ya one” I said with a laugh

“Well we’re gonna be there in about 20 minutes” I said

“Sounds good” AJ replied

“Cya soon” I said

“Uh huh love you” He said

“Love you too, bye” I said and hung up, starting the car.

“Welcome to LA” I said as pulled into the traffic taking the shortest possible route from the Airport to AJ’s which took half an hour.

“It looks like Sydney” Jane said

“Except everyone is on the wrong side of the road” Adam added

“just gotta get used to it” Taz said as I started fiddling with the radio.

“Nick was kind enough to go and buy some grog for us” I said. Adam was grinning, Jane looked sad and tired. I got sick of trying to find a radio station so I put in a cd and turned it up when I realised it was Live. When we arrived at AJ’s house both Adam and Jane looked at it in shock.

“Big huh” I said as I grabbed a bag and started around the back. I found Nick and AJ on the deck, Nick had a beer, AJ had a coke.

“Hey Nicky” I said kissing his head as I went past

“Hey babe” He greeted back and I smiled at AJ, pecking him on the lips and putting the bag I was carrying down.

“Nice to see you again Adam” AJ said standing up and offering Adam his hand which he took and shook.

“You too AJ, you have a nice house” Adam said with a smile and than he turned to Nick who had one arm around Taz. When Nick and Adam were finished shaking hands I pulled Jane closer to me.

“Jay, Nick, this is Jane, Janey, this is my boyfriend AJ and Taz’s man Nick” I said

“It’s lovely to finally meet you, surprisingly it was Adam who told me all about you, not these two” She said also shaking their hands. Taz and I grinned sheepishly and Adam chuckled.

“Jane would you like a rum and coke?” Nick asked her

“I’m not sure I like American rum” Jane said

“Ahh, but I have Bundaberg” Nick said

“Well sure if it’s Bundy” Jane smiled. Nick grinned and looked at Adam.

“Beer?” He asked

“Yeah thanks” Adam said. Nick than looked at me.

“Do you really need to ask?” I said. He laughed and shook his head.

“I’ll just take them up and show them their rooms” I said to AJ

“Sure, I’ll get some food” AJ nodded

“:This way” I said picking up another bag and leading Adam, Jane and Taz inside and up the kitchen steps.

“If you’d prefer to stay on the bottom floor that’s ok” I said as I lead them down the corridor away from mine and AJ’s room. I opened a door and Jane stepped in.

“I’ll take this one” She said and took her bags off Taz. I nodded and looked at Adam

“I’ll sleep up here” He said. I nodded and lead him down a few doors and opened it. He took the bag I was carrying and went in. Taz and I hung around at his door.

“What?” He asked. I looked at his Violin case

“I’m not playing it in front of them” He said

“Fine, come down stairs when you’re ready” I smiled and than pouted at him, pretending to cry as I walked away. Taz went in. I chuckled too myself and went downstairs, taking the seat beside AJ and accepting the beer Nick offered me. I propped my legs up on the railing and opened it, taking a swig.

“I guess they’ll be down in a while. I think Taz is talking to Adam” I said

“He’s gay, right?” Nick asked

“Yeah, Nicky you don’t have a thing to worry about” I grinned. Taz and Adam came out the door with their arms around each other and Nick gave me a look. I just smiled. Taz let go of Adam and went and plonked herself on Nicks lap.

“Where’s the music?” I asked AJ as Adam took a beer off Nick and sat in another chair

“Inside” He said

“Why isn’t it playing?” I asked. He shrugged.

“honestly, who needs a cd when you’ve got us?” Taz asked and grinned. I started laughing and nodded. Neither of us started singing and Nick and AJ looked at each other and in perfect rhythm with each other started singing 99 Bottles Of Beer.

Chapter 40

“How do you 2 feel after your flight?” Taz asked Adam and Jane as we sat out on the deck pissing up

“Not to bad actually” Jane said with a nod

“I’m a little tired but that’s cos we’re sitting down” Adam said

“You wanna go out?” She asked them. Jane looked reluctant but Adam sat up straighter

“Not for long, Jane, just so you can meet everyone else” I said

“Ok” She said. Nick stumbled out the door laughing. AJ came out not long after shaking his head and chuckling.

“Dickhead here just fell down the stairs” He informed us. I laughed.

“Sucked in” Taz said.

“I gotta ring Jenn” I said getting out my mobile and dialing the familiar number, waiting. She answered on the 3^rd ring.

“We’re gonna go out” I said to her

“Yeah! What time?” She asked

“Later on, you can come over now though” I said

“Jawesome we’ll be there in a while” She said

“I’ll have a coke waiting” I said. She laughed. We said goodbye and hung up.

“Jas and Jenn are on their way” I said, to no one in particular. We talked and mucked around and drank for ages until at about 8:30 we decided it was probably time to get ready to go. When we arrived at the Karaoke Bar we immediately got drinks and settled into a corner table to watch for a little while. I took a song book from a table that no one was sitting at and Adam leaned over my shoulder as I flipped through the pages.

“Jay” I said over the noise of the bar. He looked over at me and smiled.

“You wanna sing a song with me?” I asked

“What one?” He asked

“Love Shack?” I grinned. He laughed and nodded. I went and put our name down and went to the bar while I was up. I handed out the drinks I’d gotten and sat back down.

“Taz” I said as I spotted a song that the 3 of us could sing. She leaned over and looked at the song and grinned, nodding. She told Jenn and again I went and put our names down. We waited about 20 minutes and than AJ and I got called up. We got up on the stage and took a microphone each. The music started playing and AJ brought the mic up to his lips ass he got ready to sing.

“If you see a faded sign at the side of the road saying 15 miles to the…” He started and I laughed a little at how different he sounded and than I recovered to do my part.

“Love Shack!” I sang and received a cheer from all of our friends. Everyone seemed to like us because when we were finished we got a standing ovation. We went back over to everyone and Taz, Jenn and I got excited about singing our song. By the time we’d gotten called up I’d finished 3 Corona’s off and Taz had polished off a fair few rums. The 3 of us moved up onto the stage and got a microphone each. As the familiar music started playing, AJ, Nick, Brian and Kev cheered. When the words came up on the screen my 2 friends looked at me as if to say ‘you first’. I chuckled and raised the mic to my lips.

“I may run and hide when you’re screaming my name alright” I sang

“But let me tell you now there are prices to fame alright” Taz took over

“All of our time spent in flashes of light” Sang Jenn and then the 3 of us sang the chorus. I looked at my 2 friends just before the chorus had finished and both nodded.

“Lookin at the crowd and I see your body sway c’mon” I sang, incorporating the curve Nick had taught me in the studio. Again they went off. When the song was over we got a standing ovation and I thought if we’d entered the comp we would’ve won. As we all got increasingly drunk we all sang, including Jane and Adam. Adam was currently on the stage singing ‘Feeling Good’ by Michael Buble  after the first verse was a little instrumental that was the kind of music you could strip to. And that is exactly what Adam started doing. He started to strip. Taz and I went off along with a few other girls in the bar. I caught a glimpse of AJ and Nick looking a little uncomfortable and grinned at them, miming ‘gay’.  I turned back in time to see Adam start to take off his belt.

“You think we should stop him now?” Taz asked

“Yeah I think so” I said and we both started towards the stage. Taz gathered up his clothes and I took the mic off him.