Date: Wed, 09 Aug 2000 22:59:52 EDT
From: Brwy Milo <brwymilo@hotmail.com>
Subject: "Nick and Justin" Part 46
Hey, another early chapter. No, I'm not making a habit of this, but
I've got some more free time on my hands recently, and I've had a lot of
ideas, so I figured what the heck. I hope everyone enjoys the section. If
you've got any comments or anything, please send them to Mike at
BrwyMilo@aol.com. Thanks for reading.
This story is fiction, as opposed to non-fiction. =) I don't know
these guys or anything about their personal lives. Also, sorry to all the
Christina Aguilera fans out there for making her look like such a bitch.
I'm sure she's a lovely girl in real life. =) Enjoy!
*****
It was happening again. The same white hallways. The same disgusting,
stale smell. The same bright lights, rushing people, blinding whiteness.
The same crying relatives and patients. The same scared faces.
Joey followed closely as Justin was rushed towards the emergency room. His
eyes were shut and his face pale, his clothes soaked with blood. He kept
his eyes on Justin's face. He didn't hear the doctors shouting orders at
random people. He didn't pay attention to the wires and tubes that were
placing on his friend. He just followed, as he knew Nick would do if he was
there.
"I'm sorry, but you can't come any further," a large nurse said to Joey,
stopping him dead in his tracks. He nodded in reply and tried to peer
through the small circular window. "Your friends are in the waiting room.
We'll send word out as soon as we know what we're dealing with."
Joey turned around and walked back towards the waiting room, looking at no
one. He shook his head lightly, smacking himself for suggesting they go to
a club, and then again for agreeing to go to the club they did go to,
knowing that it was in a bad neighborhood. He walked slowly, not wanting
to see his friends faces right now.
"How is he," Howie asked, jumping out of his chair.
Joey dreaded the question. "I don't know," was the only words he could
say. "They're going to send someone out as soon as they know."
Howie sat back down, his face dropping noticably. Joey walked over and sat
next to him. "Did you call Nick?"
"He's on his way," Howie said. He looked up and studied Joey's features.
"He's pretty out of it."
Joey nodded and looked over at Chris, sleeping peacefully. He had no idea
what was going on. "Dreaming peacefully," Joey muttered to himself, wishing
he had gotten as drunk as Chris had.
"I can't sit here," Christina said, finally making herself known. "I'm
gonna go to the cafeteria. Who wants something?"
"Right now, I just want you away from me," Joey hissed. He glared at her
for a moment before turning away.
"Don't peg this on me," Christina replied calmly. "I didn't make him
leave. It's not my fault he can't take care of himself."
Joey lept up out of his chair, getting right in her face. He shook
noticeably as he glared at her, seeing her recoil a bit. "If you weren't a
girl I'd beat the shit out of you right now."
Christina stared at him for a minute before laughing loudly. "Go ahead
Joey. It'd make a good tabloid story." She turned and slowly walked out of
the waiting room.
"I can't believe this happened," Howie said. "How could he have just
walked out of the club like that?"
"Ask Christina," Joey said spitefully. "He was drunk. Christina didn't
help matteres any. I don't think he realized where he was."
"What I can't understand is her," Howie said angrily. "How the hell could
she be hitting on him so much. He's engaged for christ's sake. Hell, he's
gay," he whispered.
"She doesn't care. Things like that don't exist in her head. She thinks
she can get anybody," Joey whispered. "I guess she's just a little bit hung
up on Justin."
"A little," Howie said. "She was practically raping him at the club."
"That's why he left," Joey said. "I can't believe she'd do that."
"Joey? Are we gonna tell Nick about what happened," Howie asked nervously.
"You know him better than I do," Joey replied. "Do you think we should."
"I know we should," Howie said. "He's bound to find out anyway. I'm just
afraid he'll kill her."
"Let's tell him," Joey said.
Nick walked slowly into the waiting room, followed immediately by Kevin.
He looked over at his friends, a blank look on his face. Kevin stepped in
front of him and walked over.
"How is he," he asked quickly.
"They don't know yet," Joey said.
"Is he conscious," Kevin asked, almost paniced.
"No, he's not," Joey said quietly. "And please stay calm. For Nick's
sake."
Kevin bit his lower lip and nodded. "Do you know when we can see him?"
"They're gonna send someone out to tell us about his status. They'll let
us know then I guess."
"I don't get it," Kevin said, sitting down and venturing a glance in Nick's
direction. "Why would he leave the club by himself? He knew what kind of
neighborhood it was in. How drunk was he Joey?"
Joey groaned and looked over at Howie, who nodded slightly.
"How could you let him leave," Nick asked quietly. "I thought you guys
were going to look out for each other."
"We were," Joey said quickly. "It's just that...Chris got really drunk
really fast, so one of us was always with him. Justin for most of the
night. Then, Justin got a couple of drinks in him, but he was still
alright. Until...Christina..."
"What does she have to do with anything," Nick asked quickly.
"She was putting the moves on your man," Howie said quickly. "Big time."
"Excuse me," Nick said, almost in disbelief. "She was...what?"
"She kept trying to kiss him," Joey said. "She was pretty drunk too, and
she was getting a little..."
"Horny," Nick yelled angrily, storming over to them. "I can't believe her.
She knows about us."
"She doesn't really care," Howie muttered.
"Obviously. So Justin left to get away from her," Kevin asked.
"Basically," Joey replied. "We tried to get in touch with him as soon as
we found out he left. Eventually I got through to someone and they told us
where to find him."
"I can't believe this is happening," Nick said, his voice breaking up. "I
should call his mom."
"Not yet. Why don't you wait until we hear something? Don't get her too
worried just yet," Kevin said. Nick nodded slowly and stood up. "Where are
you going?"
"I want to wait by the emergency room. If I sit here, I'm gonna go crazy."
"Do you want me to come with you," Kevin asked.
"No. I just want to be alone right now," Nick said. He stopped and turned
around. "And when you see Christina tell her that we need to have a long
talk."
"Don't do anything stupid," Kevin warned.
"I'm not going to do anything dumber than she already has," Nick said. Her
turned and walked out of the waiting room.
"He took it better than I thought he would," Howie said.
"No, he didn't," Kevin said. "He cried the whole way here. I wouldn't let
him come in unless he pulled himself together."
"Poor guy," Joey said. His thoughts went back to Justin. "I wonder how
much longer we'll have to wait."
"It's all a waiting game now," Kevin said. "I just hope Nick holds up."
*****
JC woke up with a light sweat covering his body. He moaned lightly and
pulled the covers down a bit, opening his eyes slowly and glancing over at
the clock. 4:50. The sun wasn't out yet. The room was pitch black.
Brian shifted in his sleep and pulled JC closer to him. JC smiled lightly,
enjoying the feel of Brian against him, even though it was getting hotter in
the room. He pulled the blankets down to his waist and allowed Brian to
rest his head on his chest, as he lightly stroked his hair. "Do you always
sleep like a baby," JC giggled lightly. He kissed him sweetly on his cheek
and tried to relax.
But he couldn't. No matter how he turned he couldn't get comfortable. He
pulled the blankets back up and turned to his side. He pulled his knees up
to his chest and threw on arm over Brian. He lay on his back. Nothing
seemed right. Finally he stood up and walked over to the bathroom, pulling
on a pair of briefs. He walked into the bathroom and clicked on the light,
squinting his eyes. He glanced in the mirror and groaned. "I need sleep,"
he said, noting the dark circles under his eyes. He splashed some water on
his face and through his hair, running his fingers back. He continued to
study his reflection in the mirror. Something was different. Something
that hadn't been there a while ago. He smiled lightly, thinking about his
life. His career was riding high, his had a wonderful group of friends, was
involved with one of the most amazing men he had ever met. He sighed as he
thought about his father, but didn't dwell on it. He'd come around in time.
He was sure of it.
The ringing phone interrupted JC from his reverie. He walked quickly out
of the bathroom, hoping to answer it before Brian woke up, however, as the
lamp next to the bed clicked on, he knew he hadn't succeeded. He saw a hand
grope around the night table, finally settling on the phone and picking it
up. JC smirked as he saw the sleepy expression on Brian's face.
"Hello," Brian groaned.
"Bri," Kevin's voice said.
"Yea. What the hell are you calling this late for," Brian asked, his eyes
squinted mostly shut. He sat up slowly in bed and gave out a loud yawn,
rubbing the back of his neck.
"I need you to get over to the hospital right away. I'm gonna have the
limo waiting for you."
"The hospital?" He looked over and saw JC approach quickly. "Why do we
have to get to the hospital?"
"Something's happened to Justin," Kevin said. "We don't know the details
yet. Apparently he got attacked tonight and stabbed a few times."
"Oh my God," Brian said. JC gestured wildly, trying to learn what was
happening. "We'll be there as soon as we can." He hung up the phone and
stood up quickly, finding a pair of boxers on the floor and pulling them on.
"What happened? Who's at the hospital," JC asked frantically.
"Justin," Brian said, looking at his lover's face carefully. "He was
attacked tonight." JC sat in a shocked silence for a moment, unable to
move. "We have to get to the hospital. Get dressed." JC still made no
move. "Honey, come on."
"I can't believe this," JC whispered. "Is he going to be ok?"
"Kevin didn't have any details. I'm guessing Nick is already there. We
have to hurry."
JC stood and started to get dressed, thinking to Justin. He remembered how
happy Justin had been, telling him of his engagement. His mind flashed to a
hundred images of him, from their time as children, being best friends as
they started out in the group together. He started to cry silently as he
pulled on a pair of pants. He felt a pair of arms wrap around him, holding
him tightly.
"He's going to be ok," Brian said. "He will be."
"You're always so sure," JC whispered, resting his head on his shoulder.
"What if this time you're wrong?"
"I'm just praying I'm not," Brian said quietly, rubbing his back. "Now
come on. Let's get over there."
*****
"Well, Brian and JC are on their way," Kevin said, placing his cell phone
back in his pocket. He remained seated in the waiting room with Howie and
Joey. Chris remained asleep.
Kevin looked up as the doctor walked back in, followed closely by Nick.
Kevin threw a look over at his bandmate, hoping to read some sign of hope in
his expression.
"Good evening. My name is Dr. Torvill," he said, looking in Kevin's
direction. He took a seat across from them and looked down at his chart.
"Your friend is stabilized for now," he said flatly. "And I do stress the
term 'for now'."
"What does that mean," Kevin asked, looking at Nick rather than the doctor.
Nick took a seat at the side of the room and stared out.
"Justin lost a lot of blood. We stitched him up and we're giving him a
blood supply now. That's one problem we've dealt with. Most of the wounds
were at his side and lower back. This leads to our major concern right
now."
"Which is," Joey asked quickly, wishing the doctor would just spit out what
he was trying to say.
"He's starting to experience some signs of kidney failure." Kevin gasped
lightly and looked over at Nick. He continued to watch the wall. "We're
not sure yet, but we do expect one of his kidney's to give out completely.
We're trying our best to save the other."
"What happens if the other one gives out," Kevin asked nervously.
"He'll need to get a transplant," the doctor said.
"He can have mine," Joey said immediately. "I don't need two."
The doctor smiled lightly. "Nick told me the same thing about himself.
However, there is a problem. Justin's tissue type, along with his blood and
rh factor are very unusual. Finding a good match could be a hard thing."
"Maybe Lynn," Kevin said quietly. He looked at the doctor, hoping there
was some better news.
"But like I said, this is all just a possibility. He can live perfectly
fine with just one kidney. That appears to be the most likely scenario
right now." He looked over at Nick and sighed. "I do suggest you call your
fiance's mother now. She'll probably want to get up here."
Kevin inhaled sharply and threw a quick look over at Nick. "Is he awake?
Can we see him?"
"He woke up momentarily," the doctor said. "Right now, I'm limiting
visitation. He needs to get as much rest as possible. The best you can do
right now is pray for the best." He stood up and walked from the room.
Kevin got up quickly and walked over to Nick. "Hey," he said quietly.
"Hey," Nick replied lowly, trying to stifle a sniffle.
"How did he..."
"He saw Justin's ring," Nick said. "I guess me crying outside the door
didn't help much either. He just asked flat out and I told him the truth.
It was probably the only way he'd let me see him."
"We have to make sure he doesn't tell anyone else," Kevin said absently.
"Right now I don't give a shit if he sky writes it above the empire state
building," Nick said loudly. He glared at Kevin angrily for a moment.
"Some things are more important than business and reputation."
"I didn't mean-"
"I know," Nick said sadly. "Sometimes you just don't realize though."
Kevin sighed lightly and looked back up at Nick. "You really should call
Lynn now."
"I know," Nick said quietly. "I told her I'd take care of him. He's my
fiance Kevin. How am I..."
He wept loudly against Kevin's shoulder, clutching onto him as though his
life depended on it. Kevin merely stroked his hair and ran the other hand
slowly up and down his back as a parent might do to sooth a child. "It's
alright to cry. I'll call her if you want."
"No, it's my responsibility," Nick said, wiping his hand roughly across his
eyes. He took a few deep breaths and then took out his cell phone, dialing
Lynn's number quickly.
It took about eight rings before he got through. "Hello," Lynn answered,
still a bit sleepy.
Nick took a deep breath and felt another tear escape his eye. "Lynn, this
is Nick," he said shakily.
"Nick, what's wrong," Lynn asked, picking up instantly on Nick's tone.
"There's been an accident," he whispered. "And...Justin's in the hospital
right now."
"What happened," she asked quickly. "Is he ok?"
"He lost a lot of blood, but the doctors are taking good care of him," Nick
answered.
"Nick, how did this happen," she asked again, a bit firmer.
"He got attacked," Nick said, crying harder now. His voice shook with
every word. "He was coming out of some club and he got stabbed."
"Was he alone? How did this happen," she yelled.
"He went to the club with Joey and Christina and a couple of other people,
but he ended up leaving by himself.
"Why weren't you with him," she asked quietly.
Nick began to cry harder, bringing his knees up to his chest. "I can't
answer that," he said quietly. "Please, just get up here."
"I'm checking flights on the internet right now," she said. There was a
brief pause before she spoke again. "Ok, there's a flight leaving Orlando
in about an hour. I'm going to drop Jonathan off at his father's and try to
make that one. I should be there soon."
"Thank you," Nick said quietly.
"Nicholas, listen to me," Lynn said firmly. "Take care of him until I get
there. He's your fiance now. You have to be strong."
"I'm trying," Nick said.
"Good. I'll be there soon," she said, hanging up.
Nick clicked off his phone and continued to cry, shaking uncontrolably.
Both Kevin and Joey were at his side now, comforting him best they could.
But it was no use.
*****
"You really did it this time, you know that," Howie said, as he sat down at
the table.
"I really don't want to hear this Howie," Christina replied flatly. "I
didn't do anything wrong."
"Do you understand how you were acting at that club," he asked. "You were
all over him. An engaged man."
Christina looked up at him spitefully. "I'll admit I was flirting with
him. A lot. But I was getting signals. He was hitting on me too."
"I really doubt that Christina," Howie replied with a laugh. "In case you
haven't notice, he doesn't swing that way."
"Then how come he was dancing so close to me. And how come he didn't stop
when I kissed him the first time."
"If I recall, you were practically raping him. He was drunker than you
were."
"And he was very willing," Christina lied.
"I can't believe that. He loves Nick too much to ever do something like
that."
"You can believe what you want," Christina said, taking another sip of her
coffee. "But he wanted it."
Howie stared at her for a minute, trying to detect some sign of deceit. "I
guess we'll know for sure when he can tell us what happened."
Christina tensed noticeably and nodded. "I guess we will," she replied,
standing quickly. "I just hope Nick can handle the truth."
Howie watched as she walked away. "How can she be such a bitch," he said
to himself. He glanced over and saw Joey walk in, a lost look on his face.
"Nick's with Justin now," Joey said, not looking up.
"How is he," Howie asked, leaning forward.
"Still out. Doctor said it's probably for the best," Joey replied.
"How's Nick doing?"
"He's...holding up I guess. Hasn't left his bedside yet." He looked over
at Howie and tried to manage a smile. "He'll be alright. Justin's going to
be fine."
"Doctor seems hopeful enough," Howie said. "Is Lynn heading up here?"
"Of course she is," Joey said with a laugh. "She's Lynn. Classic over
bearing mother. Where else would she be?"
"She doesn't seem too over bearing. Just...overly concerned," Howie
replied.
"I know. Lynn is great," Joey said. "She's really done a lot for us."
"She seems like a great woman," Howie said. He stared down at the table a
moment longer. "I need to get some food. You want anything?"
"No, I'm fine," Joey replied absently. He watched as Howie stood from the
table, his thoughts flying back to Justin.
"Hey guys," JC said, walking slowly towards his friends.
"Hey JC," Joey replied, looking up and seeing he and Brian approaching.
"Did you guys get to see Just," Howie asked, retreating back to the
table as he saw his friends approach. He noticed the sad look on JC's face
and frowned.
"Nick was with him now," Brian said. "JC's gonna try to get in before
the concert tonight."
"Shit, the concert," Joey said, smacking himself. "How are we going to
do this?"
"Those fans aren't going to be happy with no Justin," JC said.
"Well, they'll just have to understand," Howie said. "They have a
problem, they can leave."
"Nice attitude," Brian said with a smile. "I think if we just say that
Justin's sick, it'll all be fine."
"Lynn's on her way up, right," JC asked quietly.
"Yep," Howie said. "I think she should be on the plane by now."
"Lynn always gets what she wants," Joey laughed. "One of the things I
love about her."
JC looked over at Brian and smiled, giving his leg a squeeze under the
table. "I love you," he whispered, leaning close to Brian's ear. Brian
looked at him and smiled, mouthing the word "Ditto". JC sighed and leaned
his head back against the chair, soon drifting off to sleep.
*****
The machines blipped and beeped all through out the room. Nick watched as
the lights flashed across the machines, monitoring Justin's heart rate,
breath rate and brain activity. He pulled a seat over to the side of the
bed, looking down. 'He's so pale,' Nick thought to himself. They had
stopped feeding him the blood supply he needed to replenish his own, but he
still appeared so white. His hands lay limply by his sides, fingers curled
slightly. His face looked almost angelic, as if he were sleeping. He
looked so innocent there, in the white room, with such few sounds around
him. Nick took a seat in the chair and took Justin's hand into his.
"I'm not gonna fall to pieces on you now," Nick laughed lightly. "I did
that on the way here and Kevin yelled at me, so I won't do it again. You
know how he can be when we don't listen to him." Nick smiled, watching
Justin's face for any signs of comprehension. "I could kill Joey for not
keeping his eye on you, but you're an adult. I think sometimes it's hard
for me to be away from you. Call me a worrier. It's what I do best
sometime. You don't know what my life was like without you. It just seemed
so empty all the time. Brian was always there for me, but it wasn't the
same. I needed someone with me at night. To love me. There's only so much
your friends can do for you. And then when you came along...everything felt
so wonderful. I was scared of losing you. I guess that's why me and the
rest of the guys are always so protective of you. Because I don't know what
any of us would do if you weren't with us." He held Justin's hand tighter,
kissing it lightly. "You made me the happiest guy ever when you said you
would marry me. So, you're gonna have to get better buster."
Justin stirred slightly. Nick watched him closely, not letting go of his
hand. He watched as Justin's eyes blinked open slightly. He opened his
mouth to speak, but shut it before any sound could escape. He looked up at
Nick and smiled weakly.
"Morning," Nick said.
"Why do I feel like shit," Justin whispered.
Nick smiled down at him and sighed. "You had a bit of trouble last night."
"Did I do anything stupid," Justin asked, looking around. He noticed the
tubes in him and grimaced. "Shit."
"You were stabbed a couple of times after you left the club," Nick said
slowly. "You lost a lot of blood and needed to get stitched up."
"Am I going to be ok," Justin asked. He tried to sit up, but found he was
too weak, sinking back against the mattress.
"You're going to be fine," Nick said, trying to manage a smile.
"Nick, tell me what the doctor said."
Nick bit his lower lip and lowered his eyes to the matress. "The doctors
are worried about your kidnies," Nick said carefully. One of them was badly
damaged. They're trying to save the other one now."
Justin stared at him blankly for a second before nodding. "Did you call my
mom?"
"She on her way up now," Nick said, rubbing his hand over Justin's. "You
will be alright," he said firmly, convincing himself more than Justin.
"I know," Justin said, a bit unsuredly. He lifted his body slightly and
grimaced. "My back hurts a lot."
"Do you want me to get the nurse," Nick asked, standing quickly.
"No," Justin replied. "Could you just stay with me for a while.
"I'll stay with you forever," Nick replied. He ran his finger over
Justin's ring. "Remember?"
"I do," Justin said, a smile painted across his face despite the pain.
"And I can't wait til I'm...til you're...are you taking my name or am I
taking your's?"
Nick laughed for a second and thought. "Nicholas Timberlake...Justin
Carter...I don't know."
"I guess it doesn't matter right now," Justin said with a smile. "How long
til I can leave?"
"I don't know honey," Nick said quietly. "I don't think it will be too
soon though. You did lose a lot of blood, and you may lose a kidney. This
is kind of serious."
"I know," Justin said. "I'm just so sick of these places."
"I know you are," Nick replied.
Justin's eyes shot open wide as his head turned back in Nick's direction.
"What are we going to do about the show tonight," he asked, almost paniced.
"Don't worry about the show," Nick said, smoothing down Justin's hair.
"But we can't cancel it," Justin said, still nervous.
"Justin, Britney and Christina will still go perform. So will the other
guys. Don't worry about it."
"You have to go to," Justin said.
"No I don't," Nick said quickly. "I'm gonna stay here with you."
"Nick, you're going," Justin said firmly. "End of discussion."
"Justin, my place is with you," Nick said. "They can get along without me
for one night."
"Nick, missing one member is bad enough. Do you really want to disappoint
all the fans who are going just to see you? I feel bad enough that I can't
go on. There's no way I'm gonna be responsible for you missing the show
too."
"But I want to stay here with you," Nick said, looking longingly at Justin.
"Don't you think it would look a little funny if both of us didn't show
up," Justin said. He was grimacing noticeably now from the pain.
"Maybe," Nick replied.
"No maybe's about it. You go perform and I'll watch the whole thing on the
television. It's going to be televised isn't it?"
"Yea it is," Nick said absently.
"Alright then. You can come back right after the show, but I want you to
go perform tonight. My mom should be here by then. I'll be fine Mr.
Timberlake."
"Mr. Timberlake," Nick laughed.
"Just trying something out," Justin said. "You get to call me Mr. Carter
all day tomorrow."
"Gee thanks," Nick said. He got up and sat on the edge of his bed. "I
prefer honey...baby...darling...," he accentuated each word with a kiss on
Justin's cheek.
"OK, I'll accept any of those as well," Justin giggled. He shifted
slightly on moaned. "I think we can get that nurse in her now. Some
morphine or something would be nice."
"I'll go get her," Nick said walking quickly from the room.
Just lay still in his bed, looking up at the ceiling. 'What the hell
happened,' he thought to himself. His thoughts were all mushed together,
combining crazily. Only a few registered clearly in his head. He would
probably lose one kidney, maybe two. He let a few tears come to his eyes
before quickly wiping them away. He shut his eyes again and cleared his
head of all thoughts.
*****
Lynn walked quickly into the hospital, her shoes clicking loudly on the
floor. She looked at no one as she maneuvered her way towards the nurses
desk.
"Hello, my son is a patient here," she said quickly. "Justin Timberlake."
The nurse looked at her, slightly startled. "I'm afraid I'm going to have
to see some ID," she said nervously. "His mother has already been her three
times."
"I hate reporters," Lynn muttered, pulling out her wallet. She handed the
woman her driver's license and waited patiently as the nurse called to
verify it.
"I'm sorry, but I'm sure you understand the precautions we're taking to
ensure your sons privacy," the nurse said, handing Lynn back her license.
"He's in ICU. Room 4D. A young man is with him."
Lynn smiled and nodded. "Thank you," she said as she walked towards the
ICU. She side stepped past several patients, nurses and doctors, finally
reaching the room where her son was.
"Lynn," Nick said as soon as he saw her. He jumped up from his chair and
hugged her tightly.
"Hello Nick," she said with a smile. She looked down at her son, sleeping
peacefully on the bed. "How's the patient?"
"Drugged up," Nick said. "He was having some pain so the doctor gave him
an injection."
"Probably for the best," Lynn said, sitting down by the side of the bed.
She ran her fingers through his hair and smiled. "Anything new happen?"
"The doctor thinks his one kidney will be fine," Nick said with a smile.
"He's not going to need a transplant."
"That's wonderful," Lynn said calmly, a smile on her face.
Nick studied her for a minute. "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course," Lynn said with a brief smile.
"Did you smoke up on the way here," he blurted out quickly. "I mean, how
can you be so calm? I called you before to tell you your son was attacked,
stabbed, almost killed. And now you get here and there are like no tears,
no outbursts...you're too calm!" Nick sat down heavily in the chair and
looked over at Justin. "Don't you care?"
Lynn smiled warmly at him and turned to face him fully. "Let me explain
something to you Nicholas. I love my son very much. I've worried about him
his entire life. Now, just because I'm calm doesn't mean I care any less.
It means I'm passing some of it on to you."
"Thanks," Nick said sarcastically.
"You're his fiance now," Lynn said. "You have to take care of each other
now, just like I did while he was growing up. It's what getting married is
about."
"I'm scared," Nick whispered, his gaze settling back onto Justin. "I know
I can't protect him from everything out there-"
"You don't have to," Lynn said, a knowing smile on her face. "You only
have to love him, and make sure he knows you love him. Does he know you
love him Nick?"
"Yes," Nick whispered.
"Then that's all that matters." Lynn walked over and rested a hand on
Nick's shoulder. "You two are good for each other. You're still young
enough to love wild and recklessly, but mature enough to ground each other.
I think it's what you need."
"But what can I do for him now," Nick asked, almost pleading.
"You have to go do your job," Lynn said flatly, walking back towards the
window. "You have a concert tonight. You can't disappoint your fans. I
know you want to be here with Justin, and I know that he appreciates your
devotion...and god knows he'd be acting the same way if the situation was
reversed, but you have to go on."
"I know," Nick sighed. "You'll stay with him though...right?"
"Of course," Lynn laughed. "I'm still his mother, honey. And I'm still
the biggest worrier of them all." She smiled over at him and nodded. "Now
kiss him goodbye and get over to the arena."
Nick nodded quickly and walked over to the bed, sitting cautiously on the
end so as not to disturb any of the wires. He ran his hand lightly through
Justin's hair and smiled. "You're so beautiful," he whispered lovingly. He
bent down and gently placed a kiss on Justin's lips, lingering for a moment
before lifting up again. He wiped the corner of his eye as he saw him lying
there and then stood up quickly. "Ok, I'll be back as soon as I can."
Lynn watched as Nick walked out of the room, hesitating more with each step
until he was out in the hallway, finally convincing himself he was doing
what Justin wanted him to do. She smiled and looked down at her son.
"What are we going to do with you," she said with a smile. She looked at
her son lovingly. "He does love you. So much," she whispered. She felt
her voice catch in her throat as she shed her first tears.
*****
"Let's hear some noise," AJ yelled quickly, opening the Backstreet Boys
act. The crowd roared in excitement, an aura of energy filling Madison
Square Garden in New York City. Behind the five members of BSB was a huge
television screen, broadcasting their image ot the thousands of fans that
filled the sold out arena. AJ kept in mind that this concert was being
televised on a cable special, making a mental note to keep the energy high.
Lazer lights began to flash wildly as electronic music pulsed through the
air. The fans wailed louder as they recognized the song that was about to
be performed. The guys posed immediately in tight formation, beginning the
dance steps that had been drilled meticulously into their heads and bodies.
Brian and Nick stood side by side in front of the other three, dancing hard
even as they began to sing. Brian was the first to vocalize, pushing his
voice to the max to get as much energy as he could out to the already hyped
up crowd.
I may run and hide
When you're screamin' my name, alright
Nick took over Brian's lead and continued the song singing perfectly in
tune with the music. He felt the energy of the crowd as the song moved on.
But let me tell you now
There are prices to fame, alright
All of our time spent in flashes of light
The five men got into a ight group, dancing hard ot the music, a group of
select dancers behind them mimicing their movements perfectly. Devon
watched from the side, smiling broadly as he watched the guys perform with
more energy than he had in a long time. He noticed that Nick was especially
in top form, despite the recent events. Fatima walked over and stood beside
him, also smiling widely.
"They know how to turn it on when they need to," she said, satisfied.
"Thank God," Devon laughed. "One mess up and I swear these guys are never
getting another day off."
All you people can't you see, can't you see
How your love's affecting our reality
Every time we're down
You can make it right
And that makes you larger than life
Nick and Brian again took over the lead, putting as much into the vocals as
they did into the dancing. Nick could barely hear himself as the crowds
roaring grew in intensity. He subconsciously thanked whoever thought up ear
monitors and continued with the song.
Looking at the crowd
And I see your body sway, c'mon
Wishin' I could thank you in a different way, come on
'Cause all of your time spent keeps us alive
The dancers over took the stage during the instrumental section, which had
been expanded from the album for the stage shows. The choreography was also
more intense than it was in the video, bringing a sweat quickly to all the
guys. The audience watched amazed at the precision they performed with,
obviously enjoying the display before them.
All you people can't you see, can't you see
How your love's affecting our reality
Every time we're down
You can make it right
And that makes you larger than life
Another instrumental break began as the guys ran upstage of the dancers, a
platform rising quickly as smoke rose form the stage. They continued their
dancing, but more compact in their movements. The crowd seemed to grow
louder as the men began to get higher and higher, the dancers continuing to
move rhythmically on the stage.
All of your time spent keeps us alive
All you people can't you see, can't you see
How your love's affecting our reality
Every time we're down
You can make it right
And that makes you larger than life
The platform began to descend, each of them finally leaping down before it
actually hit the stage. The audience grew louder, but Nick no longer heard
them. He only concentrated on the music. 'The sooner this is over, the
sooner I can get back to Justin,' was floating somewhere in the back of his
head, making him dance harder.
Yeah, every time we're down
Yeah,you can make it right
Yeah, That's what makes you larger than life
AJ held out the last note long, everyone on stage striking a final pose as
the pyrotechnis threw sparks up and over them. The crowd, already on its
feet, jumped up and down more with excitement. As the final note ended, AJ
threw a satisfied look out at the crowd.
"Thank you," Brian said loudly, trying to quiet the fans. He looked over
at Nick, who nodded and moved to center stage.
"We have a little announcement to make," Nick said, dreading the moment
that was upon him. "Due to...unforseen circumstances, Justin of N'Sync is
unable to be here tonight." The crowd groaned it's disapproval, making
Nick's heart sink further. He began to take a step back, but felt Brian's
hand keep him where he was. Brian nodded and urged him to continue. "He
was admitted into the hospital today, as I have no doubt will be plastered
across the headlines of every newspaper by tomorrow. He's doing fine now,
but he won't be able to join us tonight. We're all dedicating this concert
to him, and wishing him a great big get well. I know he's watching this
from his hospital room right now, so on the count of three I want all you
Justin fans out there to yell out 'Get Well,' Nick said, trying to win the
crowd back. "One...two...three!" The roar was deafening. Nick smiled
widely as the crowd clapped and screamed. "We all love you Curly. So you
better get better fast," Nick said, smiling lightly. 'Hey, I finally got to
say I love him in public,' he laughed to himself.
"Now, Nicky hear has a surprise for you guys," Kevin said, stepping forward
and placing his hands on Nick's shoulder. "He's gonna sing a song for you
guys, and for Justin...Hey Justin," Kevin said waving towards a camera.
"But I think he's gonna need a little help. So, we brought out these guys,"
Kevin said, pointing to a wing of the stage.
"What is he up to," Justin asked from his hospital room. His mother sat by
his side, watching the television screen closely.
"I have no idea," she replied bluntly.
Justin watched the television screen closely, watching as his friends and
bandmates walked onto the stage. He was confused, but excited at what was
in store.
"Since Justin can't be here tonight," JC said to the crowd, quieting them
as best he could with a quick hand gesture. "Nick has been so kind as to
volunteer to help us with our opening song and fill in for Justin."
"He's a little underdressed," Lynn laughed, noting Nick's sleeveless shirt
and torn leather pants, in comparison to the suits donned by the members of
N'Sync.
"I think he looks sexy," Justin said with a smile.
"Control your hormones," Lynn laughed.
Justin ignored his mother and watched as Nick took a seat on the stool
provided for him. "This one's for Justin," he said shyly as he adjusted his
microphone. Justin smiled happily as he recognized the opening chords to
the song.
Nick tapped his foot in rhythm with the music singing right on cue with the
music. 'He must really listen to that album a lot,' Justin laughed to
himself, noting how well Nick's voice suited the song.
Can this be true, tell me can this be real
How can I put into words what I feel
My life was complete, I thought I was whole
Why do I feel like I'm losing control
I never thought that love could feel like this
Then you changed my world with just one kiss
How can it be that right here with me
There's an angel, it's a miracle
Nick looked right into the camera as he sang, putting as much emotion into
the song as he could. He smiled as he sang, putting a smile on Justin's
face and filling his stomach with that feeling that's bound to happen when
someone you love does something totally unexpected to show you that they
love you in a new way. Justin giggled lightly, making his mother roll her
eyes.
Your love is like a river
Peaceful and deep
Your soul is like a secret that I never could keep
When I look into your eyes
I know that it's true
God must have spent a little more time on you
Oh a little more time, yes he did baby
Nick's voice harmonized nicely with the voices of the other four men, the
audience roaring it's approval. JC threw a happy look in Nick's direction
as he took over the song, allowing the others to harmonize lightly under his
voice.
In all of creation, all things great and small
You are the one that surpasses them all
More precious than and diamond or pearl
They broke the mold when you came in this world
And I'm trying hard to figure out
Just how I ever did without
The warmth of your smile, the heart of a child
That's deep inside and leaves me purified
JC held the last note as the other sang the chorus again. Nick smiled
widely, continuing to stare at the camera. The television screen showed his
face, enormous against it's backdrop. He had sweat dripping down his brow,
but he ignored it as he continued to astound both the audience in the arena,
the fans at home, and his fiance, who now had tears in his eyes as he
watched his lover perform for him.
Your love is like a river
Peaceful and deep
Your soul is like a secret that I never could keep
When I look into your eyes
I know that it's true
God must have spent a little more time on you
On you...
Yes he did baby
Nick again took over the lead, the others harmonizing lightly along with
him, careful not to throw him off, all knowing that while he was singing the
song extraordinarily well, he wasn't as sure of the harmonies as Justin was.
He concentrated hard on making sure his voice blended well with the other
voices of the group. The smile never left his face, however.
I never thought that love could feel like this
Then you changed my world with just one kiss
How can it be that right here with me
There's an angel, it's a miracle
Nick lowered his voice to an even match with the other in the group as the
final chorus began. He put as much as he could into the singing, satisfied
that he had done a good job.
Your love is like a river
Peaceful and deep
Your soul is like a secret that I never could keep
When I look into your eyes
I know that it's true
God must have spent a little more time on you
On you...
God must have spent a little more time on you
A little more time on you, oh
"We love you Curly," they all said in unison as the song ended.
"How'd I get so lucky," Justin asked as he watched Nick run off the stage,
changing into his next costume for the show.
"He's lucky too, you know," Lynn said, rubbing her sons shoulder lightly.
She noticed him tense a bit and withdrew quickly. "Are you ok?"
"Get the doctor," Justin said through gritted teeth.
Lynn jumped up quickly and rushed towards the door. "We need a doctor in
here now," she screamed.
*****
"Nick, that was wonderful," Britney said, hugging him tightly. She stood
in the hallway outside their dressing rooms, getting ready to go on for her
set.
"Thanks Brit," Nick said with a smile. "I wasn't too obvious was I," he
asked with a laugh.
"Well, you did say you loved him on camera and in front of thousands of
screaming teeny boppers." She giggled lightly and kissed him on the cheek.
"But no, I think it was perfect."
Christina walked quickly towards the pair, a grin painted across her face.
"You're up Brit," she said, wiping some sweat off her brow.
Nick tensed quickly as he saw her. Britney noticed this and looked at the
both of them quickly. "I guess I'll get up there then," she said quickly.
"Don't kill her," she whispered quickly.
"Nick, we need to talk," Christina said quickly, running her fingers
through her newly died hair.
"Damn straight we do," Nick said, anger rising in his body.
"Well, why don't we step into my dressing room then," Christina said. "No
interruptions."
"Gladly," was all that Nick could mutter.
Christina led him into her room, shutting the door behind them and sitting
down at her vanity. She quickly undid he blouse, which consisted of a tight
black leather corset, allowing it to fall to the floor. Nick turned his
head quickly, much to the surprise of Christina. "Nothing you haven't seen
before," she laughed. "Oh wait, you don't go that way."
"Yea, I only date princes, not bitches," Nick said bitterly.
Christina ignored her comment and pulled on a red silk kimono. "So, I hear
you spoke to one of the guys and jumped to the wrong conclusion," she said.
"Well, you're partly right," Nick said. "I talked to the guys and settled
on the only conclusion possible."
"Well, do I have a story for you then," Christina said. "And you're not
going to like it."
"Save it Christina," Nick said. "I just don't care at this point. The man
I love...the man I'm going to marry...is sitting in that hospital, hurt very
bad. And it's your fault."
"You really are stupid, aren't you," she said quickly.
"What are you talking about," Nick asked bitterly.
Christina sighed and turned to face him. "I'll admit one thing. I did
initiate the flirting that went on between Justin and me."
"From what I heard, it was more of a full on assault," Nick said angrily.
"Simmer down," Christina said. "You heard only half the story. Now's your
chance to get it right out of the bitch's mouth," she said, a smirk across
her face.
Nick hesitated before nodding. "Go on."
"Like I said, I initiated the flirting," Christina said, turning around and
looking at Nick through the mirror as she fixed her make up. "But he
continued it."
"That's bullshit," Nick yelled.
"I kissed him. I was drunk," Christina said. "But he continued the kiss.
I finally came to my senses and pulled away, but he kept after me. I don't
know if it was the liquor, or if I was just looking really good, but he
wasn't taking no for an answer. Finally I told him to just leave me the
fuck alone. That's why he left."
"That's a crock of shit," Nick said, jumping up. "For one thing, Justin's
gay...and in a very happy relationship. And secondly, if he was straight,
he could do a hell of a lot better than you."
Christina laughed for a moment. "Yea, right," she said with a smirk. She
looked at him a moment longer before turning away. "Look, I didn't mean to
start any trouble. I just thought I should tell you what you're getting
into before it's too late. Your fiance isn't as innocent as you think he
is."
"I know more about him than you ever will," Nick said, standing up quickly.
"And I'm not going to listen to you lying anymore." He turned and walked
out of the room quickly, slamming the door shut behind him.
Christina smiled at herself in the mirror, applying just a little more
makeup to her cheeks and then fixing her hair again. She stood slowly and
walked over to the clothing rack, pulling on a tight fitting tank top,
mathcing her leather pants perfectly. She took one more look in the mirror,
satisfied with what she saw. "Very soon Curly," she said to her reflection.
She turned quickly and walked out of the room, shutting the door behind
her.
*****
Nick walked slowly back through the corridor of the hospital. He didn't
look at, nor did he see anything in particular. He just walked towards the
room where Justin lay. His thoughts stayed on his conversation with
Christina as he moved. "He wouldn't do that," he thought to himself
silently.
"Nick," Lynn said with a smile, putting her hand on Nick's arm and guiding
him into Justin's room.
"How is he," Nick asked quietly, letting his gaze fall on Justin's bed.
"Resting now," Lynn replied. "He had a bit of trouble a little while ago,
but the doctor thinks he should be alright for a bit."
"What happened," Nick asked, concern replaceing the hurt he felt.
"Back spasms," Lynn replied. "They gave him a relaxer."
"Poor guy," Nick said kneeling by the bed and resting his head against the
mattress. He ran his hand through Justin's curls and sighed.
"He saw the beginning of the concert though," Lynn said, a smile across her
face. "He loved it."
Nick giggled slightly. "Had to do something special for him," he replied
simply.
"Nick are you ok," Lynn asked, reading into his expression.
Nick looked up at her, a bit surprised. "I'll be fine. I just have some
thinking to do."
*****
Well, there you have it. I hope you all enjoyed part 46. I seem to be
whipping these out recently. =) The next part should be out just as soon.
Please send some feedback to Mike at BrwyMilo@aol.com. Thank you to
everyone who has emailed me so far. It's always nice to hear what you guys
think about how the story is going. Also, the awards are starting, so
everyone vote for something, whatever story it is. See ya soon.