Date: Sun, 18 Jan 2004 21:28:32 -0800 (PST)
From: Kayla S <naomi_kiyoshi@yahoo.com>
Subject: Dangerously In Love: 2

			    Dangerously In Love
				 By Kayla

Note: If it is illegal in your area to view such material or if you are
under legal age to view such material, please leave. Any mention of
celebrities in the story is not to be taken seriously, as it is only a
figment of my imagination. Any real places or real events in this story are
once more, just a coincidence and not to be taken seriously as they are
completely fictional. All songs are copyrighted by their respected artists
and companies. Thank you and enjoy.

Chapter 2: New York Music Show

	"Phobeus? Is that you?" My mouth became suddenly dry as I took a
step back.
	"Dylan?" I whispered.
	"In the flesh man. I thought I'd never see you again. Well, at
least in a place like this. But damn boy, I never knew you could sing or
dance like that." Finally, the shock wore itself out of me and my tone
became dead hard.
	"What are you doing here Dylan?" He noticed the sudden change in my
tone and took a step back himself.
	"Just chilling bro. Can't a man chill, Pho?" My hands balled up as
rage started to fill me.
	"Don't ever call me Pho again, Dylan. You lost the right to do that
long ago." My voice was deadly clear and straight. He knew that I was mad.
	"Oh come on babe. You're still not holding that grudge against me
are you?" My hands moved faster than the eye could process. He was hanging
a few feet above the floor with my hand holding him up through way of his
shirt. Everyone around us had stopped to look at what was happening
now. Kat had managed to make her way over to us and she looked at me with
unsure eyes.
	"You fucking left me Dylan. You, my best friend, fucking left me
alone when I needed you most. And to add salt to the injury, you told
everyone you could about me being gay. You think I can forgive you for
that? You're very wrong Dylan. If you think you can stroll back into my
life, you're gravely mistaken. Not get your ass out of here before I escort
you out. And don't you dare ever come near me again. Next time, you'll see
why I am one of the best karate champions in our region." I let go of his
shirt and he dropped to the ground. I turned around and stormed off back to
the bar Kat followed me from behind and she spun me around. When I was
about to tell her to shut up she just handed me my shirt.
	"We'll be having a long talk sometime soon Angel. For now, I'll let
this slide but I better get a damn good reason why you did what you did
there. He looked like he could have pissed in his shorts." I shot her a
look that told her to shut up. She sighed and got back to her
job. Eventually, after a lot of serving drinks and listening to the music,
my mood slowly got better. Everyone had returned to what they were
previously doing.
	Ly came up behind me and gave me a hug. "It'll be okay babe. If you
need someone to talk to, you always have me, Kat, and Max. Never forget us,
ok?" I smiled at her and nodded my head. It was good to know I had found
three people already that I could talk to. Time dragged on until it was
time to close down.
	"Well guys, that's it for today. Hope you guys had fun, and let us
not forget to give our young star Angel a round of applause for his
breathtaking performance." I blushed as another round of applause boomed
through the club. Someone out there shouted out when I would be working.
	Adam came out and took up the mike. "Well, since you guys are so
curious. Kathy will be working everyday of the week. Ly will be working on
Mondays, Wednesdays, and the weekends. Max will be doing Tuesdays, and
Thursdays, and the weekends. Naturally, the weekends include Fridays. As
for Angel, it's up to him." He looked at me waiting for my response. I
though to my college and figured that it was more important to me.
	"Book me in for the weekends." That was met with a huge round of
shouts and cheers.
	"Well, there you have it people. The lovely waiters of Club Fame. I
hope you liked the grand opening." Another chorus of cheers emitter from
within and it quieted down as people began to start to leave.
	Kat came up behind me and asked if I could get home fine. She was
going to go home with Ly, who was her roommate. I shook my head yes and she
kissed me on the cheek and gave me a tight hug. Ly did the same thing and
they both left. Max came up and gave me a hug and asked me if I wanted him
to follow me home. I shook my head no and told him thanks. He gave me a
gentle kiss on my forehead and he too headed out. As I was beginning to
leave, Adam came up to me.
	"Well, here's your nametag and clothes. As for your age, just as
long as you keep discrete, I think we'll be okay. But just in case, here's
a fake ID. Just don't bust it kid, I'd be dead. But your just so damn
good. I couldn't resist." I smile up at him and give him a handshake and
head off to my new home.  I let myself in after getting there and proceeded
to the bathroom where I took my clothes off and put them on a neat
pile. One thing that madre had taught me was to be clean at all times and I
was going to uphold it for her. I brushed my teeth and went to bed. I was
asleep from exhaustion when my head hit the pillow.

**************************************************

	The sun had barely peeked over the land when I got up. Damn this
habit of mine of getting up early. Begrudgingly, I got up and did my
morning ritual. I looked at my schedule and decided to go ahead and get all
my books and supplies since I was up so early and I had nothing else to
do. I donned a sweater and running pants and was out the door in mere
minutes.
	On my way there, I stopped at the cafeteria and decided to get some
breakfast. I approached the breakfast line and proceeded down without any
incident. I got some cereal, toast, and orange juice and sat down at a
secluded table and quickly gulped my food. I didn't want to be here any
longer than was absolutely necessary because I was getting some looks. That
always made me self-conscious and uncomfortable. I cursed myself for
wearing such ass-hugging running pants as I rushed out the door. I was able
to make it to my car without being stopped by anybody. I approached the
location of the grand hall and parked my car.
	I walked over to the grand hall and went inside where they were
giving out the schedules and other information needed for the freshman.
	"Hello. How may I help you?" One thing I hate in the morning is
people who are chirpy and overly sweet. The blonde girl sitting at the desk
had decided to welcome with a toothy smile. She bent a little so that her
boobs rested on the table and her shirt parted so that I could see more of
her boobs. I nearly threw up at the sight but somehow, I managed to keep my
food in.
	"I need my schedule and other info please." I tried to tell her
that I was not interested in my tone of voice but it failed miserably.
	"Name stud?" She gave me her fake smile and I really felt like
throwing up.
	"No, my name's not stud."
	"Aww, isn't that cute. Well what's your real name?" She giggled a
little and I felt like slamming her into a wall or something. Honestly, how
do straight guys put up with women like this.
	"Phobeus Kallias Kratos." Hey eyes shot up in amusement and wonder.
	"Wow! That's such a pretty name. Mine is Lucy." I smiled at her,
barely, and waited patiently as she went through the records and printed
mine out. "Oh! You're only sixteen? You must be smart." I simply shrugged
my hands and let her ponder. Unfortunately, before I could make my quick
escape, she stopped me. "If you need anything, anything at all, just call
me. Here's my number." She proceeded to write her name, dorm number, and
other information and she gave it to me. They way she had said anything
made me wrinkle my nose. "Are you doing anything right now?" Before I could
answer she plowed on. "Great, my shift is over in like five minutes. So
I'll take you around town." Before I could protest, I heard a voice that I
was so thankful for at that moment.
	"It's ok Lucy, I've got it under control. Hey Angel, had fun last
night?" I turned to see Kat and Ly make their way across to me. They both
gave me a hug and Kat gave me a kiss. I could tell that Lucy was not liking
this one little bit, but for all I care, she could screw herself, as long
as she left me out of it.
	"You mean last night? Are you kidding me, that was like the worst
sex I've ever had." Lucy's eyes bulged, Ly burst out laughing, and Kat shot
me a look of pure revulsion.
	"Oh my Kat. I've seen you talk back to everyone including the
professors, but this kid has got you beat. Face it, he's better than you."
Ly was still laughing her ass off and I jabbed her a little and she just
laughed harder.
	"Bitch, we'll see who is better in the bed. Just you wait." Kat
looked at me with merriment flooding her eyes.
	"Sorry Kat, this body and equipment is reserved for my babe." I
snickered at that and Ly raised her eyebrows to me.
	"And who is this babe of yours?" Kat asked smiling.
	"I don't know yet, but I will soon. I hope." By now, the three of
us had started walking and had long left Lucy staring at my ass. We all got
into my car and sped off to the local mall. Another hour of driving awaited
me, how fun.
	"Alright Angel, spill." I looked at Kat and shot her a questioning
look. "About last night genius! Who was he?" I sighed and looked straight
ahead of the store. I wasn't too comfortable about telling them, but I
though why shouldn't they know. Even Ly, she was becoming a good friend of
mine too, even though I knew her less than Kat.
	"Well, just remember, you asked for this story." With that said, I
continued on to tell them a huge portion of my life.
	"It all started in seventh grade. By then, everyone but me had at
least gone out once or had a girlfriend or boyfriend. Dylan, the guy you
saw yesterday, was my best friend. He asked m why I hadn't gone out yet. I
was debating to myself whether or not to tell him because I was unsure how
he would take my answer. I just took a leap of faith and told him I was
gay. At first, I thought he was fine, but I was wrong, very wrong.
	He never talked to me again after that day. By the end of the day,
all of my close friends knew and all but three had stopped talking to
me. By the start of school, word had gotten around and I was left alone. I
didn't get beat up because no one was stupid enough to take me on.
	You see, I'm the karate champion of the southwest region. It has
always been my dream to become one of the best karate masters in the world.
	Anyway, I grew so lonely and depressed. The worst thing was my
parents had found out. And well, they didn't take it well. They broke off
all civilities to me and left me alone. The only time they would even
acknowledge me was at a doctor's party because it would have been bad to
their reputation if people found out they had dumped me. Everyone of their
friends deeply liked me. I don't even know why either, for all of me, I
can't figure out why. But that's not the point.
	I just couldn't bare it. I attempted suicide once. I would have
succeeded if it wasn't for madre, Miriam, out maid. She's really the only
one that showed me love back there, other than Calvert. Before you ask, I
slit my wrists. I've never been in that room ever since then. Madre won't
let me go there again.
	Madre and Calvert were the only ones to see me through into
college. That's why I did what I did to Dylan. But now I think I understand
it all. I have a hunch as to why he stopped talking to me. Last night, it
was him wasn't it, who danced with me?"
	They merely shook their heads yes.
	"Just as I thought. I think Dylan is gay and he was too scared that
I knew about him and that's why he did what he did to me. But still, I
don't think I can forgive him for that. He made my life pure Hell there. I
have nothing left there, except for madre and Calvert. When I get older and
get enough money, I want to get madre out of there and set her up in a
house next to mine. As for Calvert, there's not much I can do because he
has a family and is settled. It's just madre I worry about."
	I took a deep breath as I finished pouring out my heart. I hadn't
realized it, but I had started to cry sometime in the process but oddly
enough, it had done nothing to blur my vision. Kat gently took my hand in
her own hand an I looked up to realize that she was crying too. I gave her
hand a squeeze and looked at Ly. She was just looking back at me and by the
look in her eyes; I knew that she was fighting tears.
	"Hey guys, it's ok. I'm over it. Don't worry." I smiled at both of
them reassuring as we arrived at the mall. Since it was an hour past noon,
we decided to head over to the food court and get something to eat.
	We went to he McDonalds located inside the meal. I asked them what
they wanted and they told me they both wanted number six, extra cheese. I
smiled at them and proceeded to the cashier. I waited for someone to come
to the cashier and right when I was about to yell, a cute guy walked out of
the door. He spotted me and rushed over.
	"Oh, I'm so sorry sir. I didn't realize that you were there." He
was blushing a light pink and he kept his eyes down the whole time. I
smiled at him.
	"It's ok man, no big worry. Umm, I'll have two number sixes and one
number nine for here." He smiled at me finally and looked up.
	"Coming right up." He went back in to the kitchen and I just waited
there. In about five minutes, he was out with my lunch. I took it from him
and saw something in his eyes.
	"Is there something you want to ask Travis?" He looked up with
alarmed eyes. "Relax man, your nametag says Travis so normally, I'm
assuming it is your name." He nodded and I smirked. In a voice barely
audible, it was so cute; he asked if he could have lunch with me.
	"You see, it's my lunch break, and I was just wondering if I could,
you know, sit with you." He was just so cute that I couldn't resist. I
smiled at him an nodded for him to follow me. He grabbed his own lunch
which looked like a salad and we both sat down next to the ladies.
	"Who's the cutie Angel?" Ly asked immediately. Kat kicker her leg
and Ly winced and smacked Kat's head. I just laughed and Travis smiled at
them.
	"Angel, how do you do it?" Kat asked me in a fake, reporter-like
tone.
	"Well simple really my dear Kat. I do `it' by using `you know what'
down there with a ladie's `you know what.'" I gauged the reactions of each
of them. Ly, naturally cracked up, Kat looked at me again with utter
horror, and Travis blushed a crimson red.
	"You sick pervert. I was asking how you get guys like that." Travis
looked up at her and then back at me.
	"If you must know Kat, it's called being nice and making
friends. Plus, you need a boyfriend, and you obviously are incapable of
getting one, so out of the kindness of my heart, I'm helping you get one."
Ly laughed so hard that she fell of the table and that set us all off. I
got up and picked her up and settled her back again, next to Travis, who by
now was finally laughing along.
	"I don't know why you even try Kat. He's got you beat, hands
down. Think of it, a sixteen year old outwitting the former queen of
comebacks." Travis looked at me with amazement. I sighed and nodded my
head. His mouth opened up in awe.
	"Oh honey, Trav, my dear, he might be sixteen, but he honestly
doesn't have the body or the mind of one." I shot her a dirty look as
Travis blushed. "Plus, Mrs. Ditz, I'm still the queen. He's still an
amateur." She smiled sweetly over at me.
	"Well, I'm not the one being jealous am I?" She looked at me in
mock horror.
	"Me? Moi? Jealous of you? Keep dreaming babe." Travis snickered and
I decided to get some revenge. I leaned over the table and put my face
within millimeters of Kat's face. Everyone had stopped smiling and were
looking at me and Kat. I leaned in for a kiss when my hand shout out and
trapped her fingers and puller her hand up and over head. "Bitch! Let go my
wrist. Your gonging to break it?"
	"Come on Ly, what do you think?" Ly smiled at me and whispered into
my ear that I should lick her nose My face upturned in a devil's smile and
I leaned in closer until her lips and mine were nearly touching. I shot my
tongue out to her nose and licked it. I got the exact reaction I was hoping
for when she twisted around and was bound in my firm grasp. I laughed and
pushed her right hand which sent her spinning and landing on poor
Travis. He barely had time before she crashed into him and in the end, his
hands ended up on her boobs. Kat quickly got up and Travis quickly
retreated his hands while Ly and I were holding onto each other laughing
our asses off as we smacked each others' laps. Slowly, Kat and Travis
started to laugh with us.
	"That was good babe. I must admit, you had me there." I smirked at
her and she gave me a hug and settled down in my lap. Travis looked at the
three of us and grinned.
	"What?" Ly, Kat, and I said at the same time. We looked at each
other and giggled a little.
	"It's just you guys seem so close friends. It's really touching. Do
you two attend NYU?" he asked the two girls. Kat answered for us.
	"Actually, all three all of us attend NYU. I wasn't joking when I
said Angel had a mind of a much older person. He's a freshman and me and Ly
are juniors. And you?"
	"I'm a sophomore at NYU."
	"Oh cool, we'll have to meet up sometime. Do you get out of work
soon?"
	"Sorry Kat, I have to work for another five hours. It's horrible,
but it pays well and I need the money." He said it almost in such a sad
tone.
	"Oh don't worry Trav, we'll meet up later. Why don't you sing by
Fame tonight? All three of us will be working there. Oh yeah, Angel
included. Trust me, once you see him there, you won't be complaining. I
convinced our manager to just see Angel in, and Angel did the rest. Just
don't tell anyone ok?"
	"I promise. My lips are sealed." He smiled up at me and I smiled
back. "Well guys, I need to get back to work before my manager freaks
out. Thanks for the time, it was fun. I'll be sure to come tonight." He
winked at us and waved goodbye as he left. Before we could talk, I got a
call from my cell.
	"Hello?"
	"Angel?" It seemed my name had been turned from Phobeus to
Angel. Oh well, their rather close in meaning, I suppose I can live.
	"Speaking. And who is calling?"
	"Great. It's Adam, from Fame. Listen, one of my good friends just
called and asked if he could have your phone number. I wasn't sure if you'd
be ok with that so I told him I would call you and get back to him. He saw
you yesterday dancing and singing and to say the least, he was blown
away. He wants to ask if you would like to perform at New York Music Show
tonight. It's happening tonight in front of the Empire State Building. What
do you say?"
	"I would be singing and dancing?"
	"Yes, as an opening act or closing or even whatever you want to
do. He just wants you to be in."
	"What exactly is it?"
	"It's a concert to commemorate all the local bands and any stars
that wish to cooperate. Their celebrating their tenth anniversary. Are you
busy tonight?"
	"Well, what about work?"
	"Fame isn't going to open tonight due to the show. What do you
say?"
	"Well, seeing I don't have anything to do, I guess I could do it."
	"That's great. Here is his phone number." I wrote down the number
as he gave it to me. We both said our farewells and I was stuck with two
girls anxious to hear whatever it was that I needed to do.
	"Well, that was Adam. A friend of his wanted to ask me if I wanted
to sing and dance for the Music Show tonight. What do you guys think?"
	"Oh, I totally forgot. The annual NY Music Show is tonight. Boy,
you better go for it. It's an awesome concert. I can't believe you actually
got invited." Ly was jumping up and down with joy.
	"Well, I can believe he got invited. He's better than all of the
bands put together. Don't even protest with me. It's useless baby. Well
what are you waiting for, call him."
	"Ok, ok, calm down. I'm calling already." I dialed the number and
awaited someone to answer.
	"Hello, Fred speaking."
	"Uh hi. This is Angel from Fame from last night."
	"Oh Angel, wonderful. I take it you want to perform tonight."
	"Well, if it's not too big of a problem." What the heck am I
talking about? I can't sing in front of so many people. Well, I guess I can
since I did it last night but this is different. I mean yesterday was just
a club performance, this is an actual concert with live people. I shuddered
at the thought but continued on.
	"Problem? Your kidding me, we'd love to have you. Listen, when are
you free?"
	"Right now, I don't have anything to do for the whole day."
	"Perfect, do you think you can make it to the Empire State Building
in about thirty minutes?"
	"Sure I think. Do you mind if I bring two of my friends along?"
	"The more the merrier. Hope to see you seen."
	"Alright, I'll be there as soon as possible."
	"Thanks Angel. Goodbye." He hung up and I told the girls we needed
to head out to the building. They were both rather ecstatic though I still
don't understand why yet. Who knows why women do the things they do.
	"Kat, do you know the way?"
	"Babe, I know this cit in and out."
	"Yep, she knows in and out. I mean anyone who spent any amount of
time in the sewers would." Ly received a smack from Kat for that comment. I
smirked and we hopped in the car and dashed off. I looked at the clock and
figured we had twenty-five minutes left. I pushed the accelerator further
and we were a blur as we traveled towards the towering Empire State
Building.
	We arrived in no time at all and we were flagged down a police
officer standing at the entrance to the park. I showed him my license and
he smiled.
	"We've been waiting for you Mr. Kratos. Take the first right and
park in one of the spaces. Mr. Fred Taylor should join you quickly." I
nodded my thanks and we drove ahead to the parking destination. As we were
getting out, Fred joined us.
	"Ah, good to see you again Angel. Or Phobeus. Which do you prefer?"
He asked me with a comforting smile.
	"Well, it really doesn't matter. Phobeus is my real name but I'd
rather go by Angel to the public when they see me as dancing." I stared
into his brown eyes to see if I could get any feeling from him but nothing
important seemed to come to me and I just brushed it off.
	"Do you have an artist name?"
	Kat decided to but in as she said it was Angel. I frowned because I
didn't like it. No need for people to think I'm conceited or anything. Then
a brilliant idea came to me.
	"How about Fallen Angel?" I received smiles from all three and it
was decided.
	"Excellenet. Now if you will all follow me, I'll introduce you to
everyone. You do want to do this, right Angel?"
	"Of course."
	"It just seemed like you were a little unsure. I assume you had
never sang for a crowd before yesterday."
	"You assume correctly Mr. Taylor, but I think the people back home
would be proud of me if I did do it."
	"Please, my name is Fred. Mr. Taylor makes me seem older than I
am." He cracked a beautiful smile and we proceeded on. "So, would you like
your song to be aired over the news in your area?" I stopped in my
tracks. Would I want it to be aired over home? Madre would be very proud,
so would Calvert.
	"Would it be okay Fred?"
	"Well, I couldn't guarantee its success, but I can sure call and
ask the local TV News Station there if they wanted to. I'm sure it would be
no problem since the NY Music Show is rather well known." I took a deep
breath. This was it, whether I wanted my parents and ex-friends to see
me. What would they think? Why should I even care? I brushed these thoughts
out of my head. I felt Kat reach for my shoulder. Ly reached for my hand
and both of them gave me a squeeze. I smiled back at them and mouthed thank
you.
	"I'd be grateful Fred." He smiled at me.
	"Perfect, I'll have one of my clients call and inform them." He
spoke into a walkie-talkie and informed them to contact the station in my
town and inform them. "Alright Angel, would you like to do an opening or
closing act?"
	"Well, I'm not really sure. Wherever is fine with me."
	"We'll see what the others opt to. Unless of course, your friends
want you to do something special?" Both girls shook their heads no. We
continued on till we reached a stage. "Guys! This is Angel." Everyone
stopped what they were doing and looked at me. I blushed furiously under
their gaze until someone broke the silence.
	"Well that settles why he's called Angel. Now the question remains,
what about his voice?" The person who spoke was a tall read-headed girl,
with flowing hair and pretty blue eyes.
	"Felicia, honestly, I would have hoped by now you would have
attained better mannerism. Yet you still manage to amaze me." Adam yelled
back at her. Kat, Ly, and I just smiled at the antics of them both.
	"Quit being such a bore Fred. I mean," before the person could
continue, he was interrupted by a joyous yell from an elderly woman.
	"Fred! Wonderful news! Hillary Duff is on her way!" Everyone gave a
whoop as the news greeted their ears.
	"That's marvelous. Good job Jeannette. Well there you have it
people. Now, Angel here, is going to amuse by singing us a ditty. Is that
ok?" He looked at me as he asked the question.
	"Sure, that's fine. Which one?"
	"Anyone. I just want these guys to get a feel for how your voice
works and then, we can see where it's best to put you. Most likely, I think
it'd be wonderful to put you as the opening act, but it all depends on what
these guys have to say. That gives me an idea. Jeanette, could you play the
music to God Bless the USA, if it's okay with Angel." I nod my head in
assent and I'm passed a mike. The same, feeling that I've been experiencing
for the past times I've been singing courses through me. As the music
begins, my voice automatically starts up.

If tomorrow all the things were gone I'd worked for all my life, And I had
to start again with just my children and my wife.  I'd thank my lucky stars
to be livin' here today, 'cause the flag still stands for freedom and they
can't take that away.

I can feel all eyes on me as I close my eyes.

And I'm proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free. 
And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. 
And I'd gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today. 
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land God bless the USA. 

The raw feeling in me as I sing is so overpowering that I start to reach
higher notes with ease and return back to the melodies without another
thought.

From the lakes of Minnesota, to the hills of Tennessee, 
across the plains of Texas, from sea to shining sea, 
From Detroit down to Houston and New York to LA 
Well, there's pride in every American heart, 
and it's time we stand and say that 
Proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free. 
And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. 
And I'd gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today. 
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land God bless the USA.

As I start to close up, my voice softens setting the mood for the ending
before it rapidly picks up again on the last sentences to emphasize them.

I'm proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free. 
And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. 
And I'd gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today. 
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land God bless the USA.
*Copyrighted by Lee Greenwood*

As the song ends and I open up my eyes, a chorus of applause greets
me. You'd think by now that I would be used to being applauded yet I still
blush.

"Well, that settles that. Now, is everyone else ready?" A plethora of yeses
greets Fred's ears. "Good. All that is left is for Hillary to arrive and
then we can begin ordering everything and dressing up."

"Did I hear my name?" Everyone turned their heads as the pleasant voice of
the ever beautiful Hillary Duff came to our ears.

"Hillary! This is such an honor for you to be here. Thank you!" Fred
exclaimed in glee.

"Nonsense Fred. This is my honor to be performing at the NY Music Show. You
have no idea how renowned this concert is over the US." Hillary turned to
look at everyone around her. Her eyes finally settled on me and I became
tense under he constant gaze. At the same time, I stared back at her. I
looked deep in her eyes and felt once more the same feeling of awe. The
same thought as many countless before her - beauty.

"Well Hillary, would you like to do a single or duet?"

"It really doesn't matter for me Fred. Either is fine." She answered
without taking her eyes off me. Kat sensed my situation and took my hand
and dragged me away from Hillary.

"Actually Angel, I was wondering if you could do the closing duet with
Hillary here. I have the perfect song for both of you." Just what I needed
great. I reluctantly turned back and looked at Fred.

"Which song Fred?"

"Thank God I Found You. Are you familiar with it?"

"Yes, it's one of my favorites actually. I'd be glad to sing that."

"I too would be pleased to do that one." Hillary interjected. For some odd
reason, I had a feeling I was getting into something I wasn't about to
like. Kat came to my rescue again and she stood in Hillary's way of
sight. Ly meanwhile was talking about something with Fred. Fred's smile lit
up and I wasn't so sure I liked the way he was looking at me.

"Guys, thanks to Lylene here, I have a perfect opener. Does anyone have any
problems with Angel doing two songs, one single and one with Hillary?" When
there was no protest I was about to speak up when Fred interrupted
me. "Alright guys, gather around. Here's the order and the list. Everyone
has two hours, tops, to get ready. Angel, I have your clothes out
back. Just follow me."

When I tried to protest once more, Kat jabbed me and shot me a warning
look. I sighed and submitted. It didn't look like I was going to win
anyhow.

"Well, here we are Angel. The American flag male dress will be the one you
wear for the closing one with Hillary who will be wearing a similar one if
I can persuade her into it. As for the other one, I haven't really had the
time to select one, so it's up to you guys what you want." That was all the
encouragement Kat and Ly needed as they prowled through the wardrobe like
ants trying to find a crumb in a kitchen.

"Got one!" Ly screamed as she pulled out perhaps the most scant looking
piece of apparel, if you could call it so, out. I stomped my foot down hard
on that one and flat out said no. She tried to haggle with me, pout, every
trick in the book but nothing worked. I was adamant and my resolve wasn't
going to submit to this. Meanwhile, Kat had been searching around and she
had came back with decent looking clothing.

"What about this. It'll match your eyes and really bring them out." It was
a silver, silk shirt and silver, cargo pants that looked similar to leather
pants, but not quite. Both pieces were covered with stripes of dazzling
gold. I thought for a while and finally decided it would do. I went in to a
changing room and changed. I looked myself in the mirror and felt rather
self-conscious. Te shirt clung to my chest rather well but luckily, the
pants were not hugging my lower body parts. I was skeptical at best but
decided to get Ly's and Kat's opinion on it.

When I walked out and to both of them, they both raised their eyes at me,
smiled, and high-fived each other. Women. What can you say? "Well?" I said
impatiently.

"Perfect," they both said in unison. They both gigged and I rolled my
eyes. "Well come on, we have to get your make-up ready." Kat started to
drag me while Ly opened the door

"Make-up?" I said bewildered. This was something I did not bargain for.

"Well yeah, you know they have to put it on. Not that you need it or
anything, just customary."

"Wait, I don't even know what song I'm doing." At that, Ly grinned from ear
to ear like a Cheshire cat.

"You'll find out for yourself, soon enough. All in good time." She smiled
sweetly up at me and I scowled at her. They eventually got me to the
make-up director and she took care of me.

I stared at my finished self in the mirror and smirked to myself. I had
never looked this good before. Fred came in and gave me the thumbs up and
proceeded on to drag me out of there.

"Ok, since your opening, you've got to be ready first. By the looks of it,
you are, right?" I shook my head yes and continued. "Nice outfit by the
way. Anyway, I was talking to Ly and she said you don't need any practice
on this song since you sang it on the way here." My heart froze as I
dreaded his next works. "I think Jumpin' Jumpin' will be perfect as an
opener. I also head you can shake your ass quite well. We'll just
see. Ready?" I swallowed hard and shook my head. Ly was going to pay dearly
when I see her next. "As for the closing, you will be doing a duet with
Hillary. It'll be Through My Own Eyes, a very patriotic song. Here's the
lyrics. You've got till the closing to memorize. Good luck!" With the done,
he dashed off again to help someone else.

I looked down at the lyrics and noticed they flowed rather easily with
me. I even got a tune stuck in my head as I started to bob my head. The
tune itself was rather catchy.

I don't know how long I was just sitting there, memorizing the song. But it
seemed time had flown and Fred was next to me again.

"Well Angel. It's beginning in five minutes. I'll do an introduction, and
then you will start up. After you're done, just box and come offstage. Ly
and Kat have already situated themselves in the front row." It was at that
that I recognize the dull echoing of the crowd outside. It sounded
huge. Fred followed my gaze and smiled. "Yep, we're full house. It seems
that you became very popular at Fame yesterday. I wasn't the only one that
decided you were damned good. Word spread real quickly that you were
performing here again tonight and most of NY decided to flock here. On top
of that, many local fans and Hillary's fans showed. We're pretty much past
full capacity and there's still people wanting to get in." I smiled
nervously and he gave me a reassuring pat on the back. "Don't worry Angel,
you'll do fine. Don't' worry about the special effects and such, all's been
taken care of. All you have to do is sing and dance, we'll worry about the
rest. Feel free to move anywhere on the stage."

Jeanette yelled for Fred to get on stage. He gave me another comforting
squeeze before he dashed off. I took a deep breath and got all the way to
the steps of the stage, barely off stage. I looked out and I was utterly
bewildered by the number of people that had showed up. It easily surpassed
anything that I would have thought of. It did seem nearly all of New York
City was there tonight.

"Welcome everyone, to the tenth annual New York Music Show!" The crowd
erupted I wild cheers and whistles." We have set up for you a great
performance. All of the local bands will be playing a song tonight. In
addition, Hillary Duff has graciously acted on our request to join us.:
Another wile cheer and applause rose up and dimmed the shouts of
Fred. Eventually, the audience settled down and Fred continued. "And
lastly, we have a very talented young man performing. We had no idea he was
going till about five hours ago and he came and got ready. He will be
opening our act solo, and closing this with Hillary. Some of you know him
already as Angel." As Fred tried to continue, the din that broke out from
the far eastern section droned him out. It looks look I found the section
with the Fame crowd. "Yes, the same Angel people. Put your hands up, and
get your bodies ready to dance. Feast your eyes and bless your ears, give
it up, for the Fallen Angel." The crowd went wild as the lights on the
stage dimmed and Fred quickly left the stage.

The familiar music picked up as the mike resting along my cheek was turned
on. My body became glazed over as the music fell upon it and wove its
special powers through me. And so, it began.


Ladies leave your man at home 
The club is full of ballers and their pockets full grown 
And all you fellas leave your girl with her friends 
Cause it's eleven thirty and the club is jumpin', jumpin'

Though he say he got a girl 
Yeah it's true you got a man 
But the party ain't gon' stop 
So let's make it hot, hot

	The crowd was going wild as I started to pump my body as I lost all
sense of worry behind. Now, my sole purpose was to give this crowd a show.

Couldn't find your man, he was chillin' with his homies 
This weekend you're going out 
If he try to to stop you, you're goin' off 
You got your hair done and your nails done too 
A new outfit and your Fendi shoes 
And when you're through parlayin' at the hottest spot 
Tonight you're gonna find the fellas 
Rollin' in the Lexus, drops and Hummers

Though he say he got a girl 
Yeah it's true you got a man 
But the party ain't gon' stop 
So let's make it hot, hot

Ladies leave your man at home 
The club is full of ballers and their pockets full grown 
And all you fellas leave your girl with her friends 
Cause it's eleven thirty and the club is jumpin', jumpin'

Though he say he got a girl 
Yeah it's true you got a man 
But the party ain't gon' stop 
So let's make it hot, hot

	The lights were going wild with me, flashing all around the place,
lighting me up neon. The crowd was yelling and screaming as I got farther
into it.

Call your boys cause tonight you're not gonna stay at home 
Should tell your girl she ain't comin' tonight 
You're goin' solo 
Cut her off cause she talk some noise 
You know you got the right to get your party on 
So get your haircut and your car washed too 
Lookin' like a star in your Armani suit 
You need to look your best cause you're turnin' heads tonight 
You're gonna find a sexy chica that's gonna dance all night 
If you wanna

Though he say he got a girl 
Yeah it's true you got a man 
But the party ain't gon' stop 
So let's make it hot, hot

Ladies leave your man at home 
The club is full of ballers and their pockets full grown 
And all you fellas leave your girl with her friends 
Cause it's eleven thirty and the club is jumpin', jumpin'

Though he say he got a girl 
Yeah it's true you got a man 
But the party ain't gon' stop 
So let's make it hot, hot

	As the breakdown approached, I could feel the lights go off. This
was it, the point of no return. The choice If whether I would get down and
dirty, or refrain and keep just hopping, bopping, bobbing, and moving my
hands around seductively. I opted for the first choice just as the lights
came on. The lights caught the perspiration on me and reflected it out to
the crowd.

Bounce baby, bounce, bo-bounce bounce, bo-bounce 
Twirk it, twirk it 
Shake baby, shake sha-shake shake 
Work it, work it 
Twist baby, twist tw-twist 
You better dip that thing 
One more time papi's mommies

I took the lyrics literally and bounced up and down, shook my ass side to
side and up and down, and twisted my whole body around and around. Dropping
to the floor, I got really into the music and completely lost myself. It
seemed the crowd was also doing the bouncing and shaking while all the
while screaming their pleasure out at me.

Bounce baby, bounce, bo-bounce bounce, bo-bounce 
Twirk it, twirk it 
Shake baby, shake sha-shake shake 
Work it, work it 
Twist baby, twist tw-twist 
You better dip that thing 
Bounce it up and down papi's mommies

Sexy women do that dance 
Fly ladies work your man 
Balling fellas time to clown 
We can get down now

Ladies leave your man at home 
The club is full of ballers and their pockets full grown 
And all you fellas leave your girl with her friends 
Cause it's eleven thirty and the club is jumpin', jumpin'

I ain't thinkin' about my man tonight 
Uh huh, I ain't worried my girl aight
*Copyrighted by Destiny's Child*

The crowd went absolutely wild as the song finished and I took my bow. The
lights turned off momentarily, although the crowd's screams didn't, and I
took that as my cue to leave the stage. Fred greeted me off stage and
rushed me to the same changing room I was in before and have me the new set
of clothes.

	"Here's a towel to dry the sweat off and some cologne to spray
on. After you get ready, you can just chill here or come up and sit with
me. I got to go now and introduce the next bands. Later Angel."

	I was left with my own thoughts as I started to change out and back
in to the next costume, so to speak.

************************************************** 

After I was ready and handsome again, I trudged down to the off stage area
and took a seat next to Fred. He was anxiously watching the current band
perform an original, heavy metal rock song. Hillary Duff finally came out
wearing the same thing I was wearing except her top was a blouse and her
bottom a skirt. We both fir the US flag quite well.

	"Alright you two, you're up next. Are you ready?" I looked at her
and we both nodded. "Great, the band is just finishing and then I'll go in
and invite you. At the very end of your song, the lights will go out and
fire crackers will be shot to the sky. Once all of them have been launched,
the lights will be back on at which time you will bow and leave the stage
on opposite ends. Alright guys, it's time." Fred disappeared onto the stage
as the other band came off.

	"Well ladies and gentlemen, there you have it. The New York Music
Show. We have one act left for you. A duet, by Hillary Duff, and none
other, than New York's Fallen Angel." The crowd went wild with the mention
of my name and I was shocked to say the least. I mean, I had done only one
performance and had already gotten such a reception.

	I was knocked out of my trance as the son started. My mike came on
and I could hear Hillary making her way across the stage as she began her
part.

Give me a world that's equal on all sides

That was my cue as I made my way onto the stage and started my part.

Let freedom flow as constant as the tides

It was back to Hillary as she sung.

I pray with each sunset, don't forget to rise
Fallen Angel: Don't forget to rise
Hillary Duff: I live without regret
Both: For ordinary lives

As the chorus started up, we joined hands as we both sang. 

I'm lookin' at life through my own eyes
Searchin' for a hero to idolize
Feeling the pain as innocence dies
Looking at life through my own eyes
I'm hoping and praying for a brighter day
I listen to my heart and I obey
How can I see it any other way?
I'm looking at life
Through my own eyes

Fallen Angel: I see a land with liberty for all
Hillary Duff: Yet still I know the truth will rise and fall
Fallen Angel: Oooh yeah-yeh
That's just the way it goes
Both: A word now to the wise
The world was made to change
Each day is a surprise

Once more, we joined hands as we both sand, swaying from side to side. 

Lookin' at life through my own eyes
Searchin' for a hero to idolize
Feeling the pain as innocence dies
Looking at life through my own eyes
I'm hoping and praying for a brighter day
I listen to my heart and I obey
How can I see it any other way?
Looking at life
Through my own eyes

And I know when you're looking for the truth
If you go and read between the lines
You'll discover how and why

It turned to my solo as I began to rap out. 

I take my heart into battle
Give that freedom bell a rattle
Get my independence signed
Declare it on the dotted line
In Philidelphia freedom ring
And patriotic voices sing
Red White & Blue never give up
We represent America

	I took Hillary into my arms for dramatic effect as we pulled off
the final stretch of the song as the crowd remained silent in awe as the
words' meaning washed over them.

I'm lookin' at life through my own eyes
Searchin' for a hero to idolize
Feeling the pain as innocence dies
Looking at life through my own eyes
I'm hoping and praying for a brighter day
I listen to my heart and I obey
How can I see it any other way?
I'm looking at life
Through my own eyes

*Copyrighted by Aaron Carter*


	The lights dimmed and the fire crackers raced into the air,
illuminating the giant US flying atop the Empire State Building. As the
lights of the fire crackers died out, the lights on stage came back on and
we bowed to the cheering and applause of the crowd. Before we could walk
off, Fred came on.

	"Want the Fallen Angel to talk guys?" The crowd went wild as I
stopped dead in my tracks. "Well, here he is!" The crowd cheered me on as I
slowly turned around. Well, I got this far, might as well take it home.

	"Hey New York! How you guys doing tonight?" I was met with a chorus
of cheers. "Let's give a round of applause to all the singers we had today,
from the local bands of NY to the nation's star, Hillary Duff!" The crowd
did exactly that, gave a huge round of applause. "Thanks for coming out
tonight guys. Thanks for your support tonight. Take care ya'll. Till next
me meet." I waved them goodbye and gave a floating kiss and I turned around
amid the cheers.

	I stepped off stage and took a deep breath. I had done it. Finished
my first ever concert, sorta. And better, Jumpin' Jumpin' had been recorded
and aired over my hometown, I just hope Calvert and madre were watching. I
need to give them a call later. But for now, I need to find Kat and Ly
before I fall of exhaustion. I never realized singing could take so much.

	As I walked ahead, I spotted someone I couldn't make out. As I
approached, adrenaline flowed through my body as I recognized the manager
of Sony's Music Enterprise.

Closure: It's me again! Tell me what you think. I'll most likely get to
update this story twice a month, I don't think I can do much more since
it's a very long story to write. Sorry guys, that's the best I can do. I
promise I'll try though. I was necessary to give you guys a better look at
who Phobeus is, truly. A few surprises thrown in here and there, with an
interesting end. I completely made up the New York Music Show and the Sony
Music Enterprise things, lol. I don't think this one is a cliffhanger
though. So you can thank me later. If anyone would like to edit for me,
please email me too. Send comments to naomi_kiyoshi@yahoo.com

Other Stories I have written: Time, under Sci-Fi