(no subject)
Oct. 15th, 2003 10:41 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
amfiguree[Het] [N'sync] [PG-13]
Steal My Heart
“Yeah... about this morning... I was-”
“I know everything, JC. Alyssa told me. Um, congratulations. You and her... you know, dating and all.”
JC grinned at the thought of Alyssa, “I’m sorry anyway. Don’t blame Lance... he just likes you so much that... you know, he kinda got the wrong idea.”
Naomi chuckled, “Hmm... someone getting the wrong idea of both of us together just sounds really weird. I mean, it’s unbelievable. Did he think you were sexing up your younger sister?”
JC chuckled, “Yeah, I know what you mean. He was overreacting. But that just goes to show you how much he likes you. Do you know when I realized I liked Alyssa? It was today. Usually I just feel some kind of attraction towards her but today I was just... I don’t know... everything seemed so right. We went for a movie and the only thing I could concentrate on was her. It was... amazing.”
Naomi sighed when she realized JC was going to tell her all about it after she had heard it from Alyssa.
“I never realized what an amazing person she is. Actually, the main reason I called tonight was to apologize for this morning and... well... I know it seems like I’m brushing you off and I’m sorry but-”
“Ally’s right here,” Naomi interrupted, reading his thoughts. “I’ll get her on the phone with you.”
“Thanks Catch. You sleep well, okay?”
“Mmhmm... you too.” Naomi covered the receiver and yelled, “Ally! ALLY! It’s CHASE on the phone for you!”
Alyssa bounced into the room. She took the phone from Naomi with a huge smile on her face. Thank you, she mouthed. Naomi shrugged. Anytime, she mouthed back. And giggled as Alyssa clutched at the phone like it was her lifeline.
Naomi shook her head and walked up the stairs slowly. When she got to her room the phone rang and Naomi picked it up with a sigh. “Naomi?”
“Lance?” Naomi was surprised... in a pleasant way. “Hey!”
“Hi... I know this is gonna sound kinda soppy but I was worried about you... you seemed really distracted in the car, so...” Lance’s voice trailed off.
Naomi smiled, “Thanks Lance. That was sweet. You see, I was actually worrying about Chase but now that everything’s sorted out, I’m fine.”
“I’m sorry I, you know, overreacted like that but I was just-”
“It’s okay, you don’t have to explain. I think I can understand.”
“Really?”
“Uh-huh.” Naomi smiled at Lance’s amazed tone. “Is there another reason you called me? Or was it just because you were worried?”
“I... um, I wanted to ask if you were sure you wanted to go out for dinner tomorrow. I thought, you know, you might have agreed without thinking.”
Naomi smiled, “You know me too well, Lance.”
“Um... does that mean-”
Naomi interrupted him, “But after considering, I decided I would go out with you after all. I mean, lunch... dinner... what’s the difference? I believe I owe you a lunch date? But do you think... could we make it on Wednesday instead?”
Lance grinned, “You bet. All right then, I’ll pick you up at six thirty Wednesday evening. Or maybe we’ll have to go straight from Jive.”
Naomi smiled, “It doesn’t matter, does it?”
“Well, it does! Kind of... to me, anyway.”
“Well... everything’s been going so fast...”
“Yeah, and since JC and Alyssa are already dating, I thought maybe we could...” Lance’s voice trailed off again as he searched for the words to say.
Naomi bit her lip and resisted the urge to giggle at Lance. “If you want to hook up with me, Lance... well, it all depends on Wednesday night. Impress me.”
Lance couldn’t resist a smile at her challenging tone, “But what if you get sent to a hospital because of a weak heart?”
“Lance, the only way I could be sent to a hospital is if you let me down so badly my heart stops beating.” Naomi teased.
They giggled but suddenly, Lance stopped. “Naomi...”
“What’s wrong Lance?”
“I... I, oh never mind.”
“Lance, have I ever told you I hate people who say that?”
“Say what?”
“I... I... oh never mind,” Naomi sighed. “Since you already started saying something to me, just spit it out!”
“Oh all right... I miss you.”
Lance’s voice was low and soft as he said those three words and Naomi had to stop herself from groaning. She didn’t say anything for a second as she let his words sink into her mind. His voice sounded so good over the phone... “Lance,” she said, breathlessly. “You’ve definitely heard this at least ten thousand times from screaming fans but I just have one thing to say.”
“What’s that?”
“You have such a sexy voice.”
Lance laughed and Naomi couldn’t help but giggle. “I meant what I said, though. About missing you. You probably don’t believe me but-”
Naomi sighed and cut in, “Lance, we’ll see what tomorrow holds in store for us, okay? Right now, all I want to do is... talk.”
Lance sighed and licked his lips. He understood that Naomi needed more time and for her to begin accepting him after such a short period of time was already a feat in itself. He smiled and said, “Okay. What do you want to talk about?”
“Hmm... what do you and Ally usually talk about?” Naomi asked, lying down on the bed and holding the phone to her ear.
“Well...” Lance tried to think of some topics but none came to mind. “I don’t know... what do you and JC talk about?”
Now it was Naomi’s turn to think, but similarly, she couldn’t think of what they talked about. “Um... any and every thing, I guess.”
“Hmm...” Lance pondered for a second. “Usually I find that whenever you say ‘let’s talk’ everything goes quiet and you can’t find anything to say. Whereas when you just talk without thinking about it, everything just comes out smoothly.”
“So we should... what? Just say whatever comes to mind?”
“Mmhmm. That should be a start.”
“Okay, you start first,” Naomi offered.
“I’m thinking of the time when Al told me I was the sexiest guy in the world,” Lance giggled.
Naomi grinned despite herself, “Why are you thinking about that?”
“I don’t know. I guess when you reminded me I had a sexy voice, I just, you know, remembered it.” Lance couldn’t help but laugh. “This talk is definitely doing something for my ego.”
Naomi laughed and Lance couldn’t help thinking what a beautiful laugh she had, “You’ve got contagious laughter... what are you thinking about now?”
“Right now? I’m thinking about this time when I was five and Chase told me I had contagious laughter. I thought it was some kind of weird thing where people would copy me and try to be exactly like me. That gave me a scare.”
Lance laughed, “Now I’m thinking how lucky you are to have had someone like JC with you all along.”
“Really? I’m thinking how lucky you are that you have the chance to show off your voice talent and work with someone as wonderful as Chase.”
“Hmm... now I’m thinking it’s weird that we keep heaping praises on JC,” Lance chuckled and Naomi smiled.
“Lance?” she said after a moment of silence.
“What is it, sweetie?”
Naomi chuckled, “Even if it doesn’t work out between us... we’ll always be good friends, won’t we?”
Lance bit his lip and thought about it for a moment before replying, “Forever friends, Naomi. That much I promise you.”
Naomi sighed in relief, “Well... it’s late. I should be getting to sleep now. I’ll see you tomorrow, Lance.”
“Night, sweetheart. Sleep tight.”
“You too, Lance,” Naomi kissed the receiver. “Sweet dreams.”
Lance laughed, “Dreaming is not going to be a problem after that sweet kiss.” Naomi laughed. “Good night.”
Naomi hung up and went to change, her mind in a whirl. After that talk with Lance, she felt closer to him than ever. And yet... something wasn’t right. She didn’t feel completely at ease seeing Alyssa and JC together. And she wasn’t sure if Lance was either. Then she smiled and remembered Justin’s words, Feel with your heart.
“I’m going to go with the flow and we’ll just have to take it a step at a time with Lance... if tomorrow goes well, then maybe... this may be the start of a whole new beginning for me.” Naomi mused, covering the blanket over her.
Alyssa came into the room a while later and hopped into bed. “Mayo? Who was that on the phone?”
“Oh... that was Lance.”
“Was he looking for me?” Alyssa asked, sounding happy.
“No... actually, he was looking for me.” Naomi admitted. Alyssa’s face fell for a second before she brightened again.
“I can’t believe JC could be so sweet,” Alyssa gushed. “Don’t go to bed yet, Mayo. Please... talk to me. Tell me everything.”
Naomi opened her eyes and rested her chin on her hands. “What do you want to know? Everything about the phone call or everything about the date that you set up?”
Alyssa grinned sheepishly, “Well he did ask. Anyway, I want to know everything about both.”
“Curiosity killed the cat,” Naomi warned her.
“I’m a pig, and anyway, even if I died right now, I’d be happy.”
Naomi shrugged, “We went for ice-cream. I had a banana split but I couldn’t finish it. I was amazed. And then, I was too worried about Chase not answering my calls to think about anything else... so Lance brought me home.”
Alyssa had a disappointed look on her pretty face, “No kiss? No hand-holding? No nothing?”
Naomi thought back carefully before shrugging, “We held hands. But you know I’m always doing that. I didn’t really notice it.”
“Well, I’d bet a billion bucks Lance doesn’t feel the same way.”
Naomi grinned, “Maybe not. But in the car we were a bit closer than usual. I mean, he had his arm around me and all.”
Alyssa grinned slyly, “Were you, uh, responding at all?”
“Well, I did lean against his shoulder.”
“Hmm...” Alyssa giggled, “Considering you don’t usually remember this kind of stuff... I’d guess that you found today pretty interesting.”
“Interesting... yes...”
“Oh, come on, Mayo! Don’t be stupid! You know what I meant!”
“I do?” Naomi acted coyly, giggling when Alyssa pouted.
“You’re being stupid on purpose.”
“While I am accidentally-on-purpose misunderstanding you, I can’t understand why you’re so anxious about us getting together.”
Alyssa sighed, “I’ll feel like a guilty BITCH if you and Lance don’t get together soon. As long as he’s single, I’m always going to feel a pang because you know I like him. If you and him hook up, it’ll help me forget about it. And besides, I’m really starting to like JC. He’s everything I ever hoped for and sometimes I pinch myself to make sure it’s true.
“I mean, can you believe it? I’m dating one of the hottest guys in the country!” Alyssa was going hysterical and Naomi knew it.
“Calm down, Ally,” Naomi said, patting her excited friend on the back.
“And... I think JC’s feeling kinda guilty.”
“Why?”
“Well, he’s going to be spending a lot of time with me, Mayo. And, well, maybe you and him won’t get to spend that much time together anymore,” Alyssa’s tone was soft and she was almost whispering.
Naomi’s heart sank, “Is that another reason you guys want to see us together? So you two won’t have to worry about us being lonely anymore?”
Alyssa nodded, “As selfish as this may seem... yes.”
“I understand,” Naomi said slowly.
“Do you, really?”
Naomi shrugged, “I suppose. Don’t worry, Ally. No matter what, we won’t blame you if you two can’t spend that much time with us.”
Alyssa sighed, “I know... and that’s what makes it so much worse.”
Naomi smiled and patted Alyssa reassuringly on the back, “Look, don’t worry. Everything will turn out okay. I told Lance that he can bring me on a date tomorrow before I decide anything, you know.”
Alyssa grinned, “That’s good. At least you’re giving him a chance.”
Naomi nodded absently, “Mmhmm.”
“Hey, look, I know you’re probably thinking of JC now and if you were any other girl I’d be seething. But, you’re Naomi Taylor, so go ahead and call him. I don’t think he’ll rest easy unless he talks to you tonight.”
Naomi sighed, “You know me, Ally, I’ll give you that. But you don’t really know Chase. He’s probably asleep now. Either that or he’s busy with something. From the tone in his voice just now, I’d say he’s groaning over how wonderful you are.”
Alyssa giggled and blushed. “Really?”
“Uh-huh,” Naomi nodded. “Positive.”
Alyssa giggled and Naomi fought not to laugh. “Still... you go ahead and call him. Friends are supposed to be there for each other, right? So it wouldn’t be fair if you were always there for him and he was never there for you.”
Naomi sighed, “I suppose.”
As much as she hated to admit it, Naomi did want to talk to JC. There was so much she wanted to ask him - from his feelings for Alyssa to her feelings for Lance. Naomi chewed thoughtfully on her lip and finally gave in to temptation.
She picked up the phone and quickly dialed JC’s cell phone number when Alyssa went into the toilet to get ready for bed. “Um... hello? Chase?” she greeted uncertainly when she heard him pick up.
“Catch?”
“Mmhmm... I, um... well...” Naomi couldn’t bring herself to utter the three words that she had forced out of Lance. I missed you, she wanted to say but then she shrugged and said, “What are you doing?”
“I was, um, groaning over how wonderful Alyssa is,” JC admitted, blushing, even though he knew Naomi couldn’t see him.
Naomi grinned, “I guessed as much.”
“You know me, Catch. I can’t hide anything from you.”
Naomi sighed, “I wanted to talk to you. You see-”
“Catch, I’m sorry I brushed you off like that just now. I guess Alyssa’s already told you about how I feel about it. I mean, I want to spend all the time I can with you to make up for the years we lost but... but now I just... there’s a part of me that wants to be with Alyssa all the time too. I’m really sorry, but... I just hope you’ll understand.”
“What is it you want me to understand, JC? That I always knew this day would come? That I always knew that someday some girl would come and sweep you off your feet? That I always knew we couldn’t be together forever? I knew, JC. Way before you thought I did. I knew, from the day you gave me those necklaces, that there would be a time I had to let you go,” tears were brimming in Naomi’s eyes but she blinked them back.
“Naomi... I...” words couldn’t express the feelings that were racing through JC. “I’m sorry.”
“Sorry for what? The fact that life’s always been and will always be one big ball of irony?” Naomi’s tone had a bitter edge to it, “Or sorry that my best friend is the one taking you away from me? Or are you sorry that I understood the words ‘pain’ and ‘loss’ too early? What is it that you’re sorry for, JC?”
“I... I’m sorry for being the one causing all the hurt and confusion I hear in your voice right now, I’m sorry that we had to meet again only to feel torn and hurt because just as we start spending time together... I start dating your best friend. These are all the things I’m sorry for and I just hope you’ll forgive me.”
Naomi bit her lip, “Chase...”
JC sighed in relief when she called him by his nickname. Thank God she’s not angry anymore.
“I... I really miss you.”
JC’s eyes widened in surprise, “That wasn’t easy to say, was it?”
“No... it wasn’t. But I really mean it. I know I saw you in the afternoon but it feels like ages since then. I mean, so much has happened in a few hours.”
JC chuckled, “Tell me about it.”
Naomi shrugged, “I went for ice-cream with Lance just now.”
“And you still had the appetite for dinner after the banana split?”
“That’s the whole point... I didn’t finish the split.”
“You... WHAT?”
“I swear it’s true!”
“But...” JC was scratching his head with amazement. “You used to be able to lick the bowls clean. And there was once you even managed two!”
“I know... but it just wasn’t right eating the split without you there. And I got a dab of ice-cream on my nose too.”
JC sucked in his breath, “Did Lance... you know...?”
“No!” Naomi exclaimed. “The only person in the world I’d let do that is you. I wiped it off of my nose with a napkin. I’m still thinking it was such a waste.”
JC laughed. He laughed so hard that tears ran down his cheeks. “Catch... I don’t believe you... oh, you’re a miracle!”
“What?” Naomi smiled despite herself. JC’s laughter had always sounded contagious to her.
“You...” JC sighed and wiped his eyes. “Never mind. Catch, listen to me. I know you’re scared and hurt and lost... but I swear that no matter what happens, nothing is going to come in between us, do you understand me?”
Naomi sniffed then nodded slowly, “I understand. I just wish this day wasn’t here yet. I... I heard from Ally that Britney’s at the house too. So that means both you and Justin will be preoccupied. At least Justin’s preoccupation is temporary. You...”
JC sighed and wished he was with Naomi. He wanted to take her into his arms and tell her everything would be okay. And that no matter what happened, he would always love her and look after her. “Don’t worry, Naomi. Please, sweetie, it’s breaking my heart to hear you this way. I promise that no matter what happens, you’ll always be my little girl.”
Naomi bit her lip and pouted, but then she sighed. “Oh well... I guess that’ll have to do for now.”
“Atta girl!” JC cheered.
Naomi smiled. “Do you remember that first time you made me that promise? The one about me always being your little girl?”.
“Uh-huh...”
“I’m sorry, Mom... I... I didn’t mean to...” Naomi stared at her feet and bit her lip. Her mother looked furiously at her, then at the mess on the floor, then at Naomi again. “I was just... I...”
“I don’t want to hear it,” Lizzie held up her hand to stop her daughter’s explanation. “Just because I tell you that you’re growing up into a young lady and should put a little more distance between yourself and Joshua, you throw a tantrum. Is that how your father and I taught you to behave?”
“No Mom, but I...”
Lizzie shook her head in disappointment, “I don’t mind you going around with Joshua all the time, but really! This is too much!”
Naomi bit her lip, “I’m sorry I threw a tantrum. It’s just that-”
“No more excuses, Naomi Taylor. I am sorely disappointed in you and I’m going to stop you and Joshua from meeting for at least a month! And-”
“Good morning, Mom Lizzie...” JC’s voice trailed off when he saw the mess on the floor and his eyes traveled to Lizzie’s angry expression and then to Naomi’s guilty, almost defiant one. “Uh, should I leave?”
“I’m glad you’re here, Joshua. Please... talk some sense into this girl of mine. She’s eleven, you’re fourteen and I think it’s about time you two put up a few walls in between each other. I know you’re close...” Lizzie held up a hand when she saw JC’s miserable face. “I know you’re close and this may seem like I’m asking too much of you, but really... you’re both growing up and this would have happened one day.” Lizzie shook her head and went out of the room, leaving JC to deal with Naomi.
JC tried to force a smile as he took Naomi into his arms and gave her a squeeze. “You shouldn’t have broken those plates, Catch.”
“Well, Mom shouldn’t have told me those things!” Naomi sat down on the chair with a huff. “I hear more about sex in school than she’d ever know and... well, she shouldn’t think those things about you and me!”
JC licked his lips and coughed nervously, almost uncomfortably, “If you’re going to start that coughing routine, then get out before I lose my temper again!” Naomi ordered, frustrated by the way things were headed.
How can she expect me not to meet Chase for a MONTH? Naomi wondered. How can I live for one MONTH without seeing my best friend in the world? I can barely survive one DAY as it is and she expects a whole MONTH!?
JC sighed and plopped down next to Naomi, who was sitting dejectedly on the floor. “Don’t act this way, Catch. All right, no more coughing fits. What... what did Mom Lizzie say about sex?”
Naomi smiled grimly, satisfied that JC had gotten over the uneasiness, “She said that I was a growing girl and that you were grown up already. And that it was time to put some, um, barriers between us. She warned me not to sleep on the same bed with you and then I got that whole ‘don’t-mess-with-sex-because-you’re-too-young’ thing.” Naomi shoulders dropped and she pouted. “It’s just not fair!”
JC shrugged, “Mom Lizzie’ll get over it. Come on, let’s sweep this up.”
Naomi nodded and slowly they threw away the broken bowls and plates and the kitchen looked as clean as before. Naomi walked out of the kitchen and ran into the garden, pulling on JC’s hand.
JC tugged his hand out of her grasp when he saw Lizzie watching them closely. He bit his lip and sighed, a disappointed look on his face. Naomi turned to him questioningly. “Mom Lizzie’s watching us,” he told Naomi and gave her a lopsided grin when she frowned and stuck her bottom lip out, like she always did when she was angry about something.
“It’s okay,” JC told her. “Let’s go up to the tree house where no one can see us,” he sighed with relief when she laughed and nodded.
They raced up the tree house and Lizzie shrugged and went back indoors. JC giggled when he saw Lizzie’s retreating figure but he soon sobered up when he saw Naomi’s distraught look. It was a look that spoke of loss and hurt and confusion - a look that should not have been on her young face. It was an expression that made Naomi look old and tired and JC shuddered. “What’s wrong, Catch?”
“Mom said she was going to ban me from seeing you for a month.”
“When did she say that?” Despite himself, JC could feel the panic rising within him. He bit his lip and tapped his foot anxiously against the wooden floor.
“Just before you interrupted.”
“Oh,” JC sighed and put his head in his hands. “But she can’t do that. It’s not fair. I mean-”
“Why does she have to do this, Chase? Is she really so worried we’ll have sex when I’m not even supposed to understand the word?”
JC shrugged but smiled at Naomi’s confused expression, “I guess.”
Naomi sighed, “But she doesn’t have to worry. Having sex with you or anyone else is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard.”
JC shrugged, “Not to Mom Lizzie, I guess.”
Naomi sighed and stared at the floor, “I don’t like growing up and being a big girl.”
“Why not?”
“I don’t like anything that separates us.”
JC stroked Naomi’s hair and whispered, “Nothing’s going to separate us. We’ll think of something.”
“I HATE growing up.”
JC wrapped his arms around her and she giggled when he said, “Don’t worry. No matter what, you’ll always be my little girl.”
Naomi couldn’t help laughing. Lizzie hadn’t banned them from seeing each other in the end. JC sighed in relief. Naomi wasn’t one to let things get to her, so when they did, they would always be really serious matters. To her, at least.
Naomi smiled, the sweet memory engraved deeply in her mind. “I... I miss those days. Chase. I miss the simple comfort of having Mom and Dad around. And knowing, without a doubt, that I could always count on you, no matter what.”
JC smiled, “I miss Mom Lizzie and Daddy Norman too. But you can still count on me Catch, no matter what. You know that.”
Naomi sighed sadly and shook her head, “I don’t know anything anymore, Chase. The world is spinning too quickly and people like me never last long in situations like this. We’re too stupid... too innocent.”
By this time, Alyssa had emerged from the toilet. She smiled at Naomi and took the phone from her for a second, “Night sweetie. Sleep tight.”
JC smiled at the sound of Alyssa’s voice. He kissed the phone receiver and smiled when Alyssa giggled. “Good night.”
Alyssa handed the phone back to Naomi, mouthed ‘good night’ and hopped into bed. She pulled the covers over her head and fell asleep almost at once, the exhaustion of the eventful day she had had taking over her aching body immediately.
Naomi smiled as she watched over Alyssa for a few seconds. She licked her lips and said, “JC, make sure you don’t hurt her. I’ve been hurt before and I don’t want anything like that to happen to Ally.”
“There’s no way I’d hurt her, Catch, I promise.”
There was a pause before Naomi spoke quietly.
“Chase... sing for me... please. I... I just want to hear you sing one more time. You know, let it be something for me to think of when I’m missing you but you just don’t have to time to give.”
JC bit his lip and swallowed painfully at the pleading tone in Naomi’s voice. He opened his mouth but his voice was choked. He took a deep breath before singing softly, the same song he had sung for her only a few weeks before. “When visions around you, bring tears to your eyes, and all that surrounds you, are secrets and lies, I’ll be your strength, I’ll give you hope, keeping your faith when it’s gone, the one you should call, was standing here all along. And I will take you in my arms, and hold you right where you belong, till the day my life is through, this I promise you, this I promise you...”
Naomi’s breathing was ragged as JC sang softly to her. Tears filled her eyes and she bit her lip, hoping she wouldn’t cry. Naomi pretended to yawn before sighing, “Thank you Chase. I guess... well, it’s getting late. I think we should both get some sleep.”
JC bit his lip and was about to say something else when Naomi said quickly, “So... I’ll see you tomorrow. Bye Chase.”
Naomi hung up without another word. JC slowly put the phone down. “Good night. Sleep tight and sweet dreams, my Catch.” He whispered to the phone, before sighing and shuffling back to his room.
Naomi lay back down in bed, and finally allowed the tears to flow down her cheeks; the tears that she had held inside for so long. She cried for herself, she cried for the fact that she and JC were finally starting to build barriers between each other, she cried for the fact that she couldn’t get over how it was Alyssa who was taking JC away from her and she cried for the fact that she felt like she was slowly losing him... and the friendship which she had treasured for so long.
Naomi began tossing and turning. Somehow she couldn’t seem to get to sleep and Alyssa’s soft snoring was starting to irritate her. She didn’t know why she was so jumpy, but she knew one thing - JC was part of the problem.
Naomi desperately fought the urge to pick up the phone and beg him to come over. Alyssa would not be happy to see them together, and neither would Lance.
Naomi shifted slightly and Alyssa scratched her head. Naomi got out of bed and stepped out of the room. She walked slowly out into the garden and recalled the time not long ago when they had gone for the drive to the beach.
Naomi almost started crying again when she thought, but now the only person he’ll go to the beach with is Ally. And nothing will ever be the same again. It’s just going to be me alone on this long weary road. And no one could even get close to sharing the same bond I share with Chase. Justin might’ve stood a chance... but we don’t have the memories that I have with Chase. And it’s still not the same.
Naomi stood at the doorway for what seemed like eternity. Then it began to drizzle. The wind blew Naomi’s dress and hair and Naomi closed her eyes and lifted her head to face the wind. A few droplets of rain water dripped onto her face and the rain mingled with her tears. Naomi finally took a step back and looked out at the storm. As a child, she used to love the rain. The flashes of lightning and claps of thunder only served to add on to the awe she already felt towards it .The sound of rain pattering against the house roof sounded magically like music and it never failed to amaze her.
Naomi sat down on the couch, staring out at the rain. She didn’t know how long she sat there but her thoughts were still racing through her mind, leaving her mentally exhausted. But she still couldn’t sleep. Naomi tried to remember how JC used to get her to sleep when they were younger. “He would talk to me till I fell asleep. But...”
“Chase?” Naomi leaned over and shook him gently. “Chase? Are you awake? Or have you fallen asleep already?”
“I’m in dreamland. Can’t you see the sign on my face that just says ‘do not disturb’?” JC grumbled.
“I can’t sleep, Chase.”
“Not again, Catch!”
Naomi pouted and shook JC gently again. “No... really!”
JC shook himself awake with a groan and turned to look at Naomi, who looked adorable in her pink nightgown. She was facing him with her head on the pillow and a miserable expression on her face.
JC sighed but couldn’t help smiling. “Count yourself lucky I melt whenever you pull that face.”
Naomi brightened and gave JC a quick kiss on the cheek. “Thank you, Chase! I’m sorry I woke you up but I really didn’t know what else to do.”
JC tucked Naomi in and smiled when she snuggled deeper under the covers, until even her head was covered.
After a few minutes of silence, Naomi poked her head out from under the covers. “Chase?”
“What is it now, Catch?” JC murmured sleepily.
“It’s raining.”
JC opened his eyes and looked sleepily at her. “Mmhmm... do you want to go watch the storm?”
Naomi nodded fervently and JC smiled. He led her to the balcony outside her room and they cuddled in each other’s arms as the wind howled around them and the magnificence of the storm filled them. JC placed his cheek against her head and Naomi sighed contentedly. “It’s beautiful.”
“You think so?” JC asked, surprised.
Naomi nodded and pointed as the lightning flashed. “They look like shooting stars zigzagging in the night. And the thunder sounds like it’s applauding the rain. The pattering rain sounds like the soft beating of a drum and when the crickets chirp it sounds like they’re singing along to the music.”
The two young kids listened to the storm in silence for a few minutes. JC smiled when he realized Naomi was right. He smiled when she leaned her head back against his shoulder. “Now are you starting to get tired?”
Naomi nodded and yawned, “Mmhmm...”
“Finally!” JC crowed.
He stroked her forehead gently and hummed her a lullaby while she relaxed and closed her eyes quietly. JC’s voice sounded perfectly in harmony with the roaring of the storm and Naomi smiled. It’s a good thing Chase’s around, Naomi couldn’t help thinking. I would be scared and wide awake on my own.
“Catch?”
“Hmm?”
“I thought you were sleeping,” JC complained.
“Not a chance,” Naomi teased.
JC smiled and continued stroking her forehead. Naomi stared out at the storm and JC’s eyes traveled with hers. They began to talk softly about their dreams, their hopes and their futures. “I want to sing when I’m a bit older,” JC smiled and said. He looked at Naomi and kissed her on the side of her head, “Thank you for showing me what I can do with my voice, Catch. Thank you so much.”
“Don’t thank me, Chase. I love hearing you sing. You’re the best singer in the whole choir,” Naomi closed her eyes and for a moment, they were quiet. Naomi was so quiet that JC thought she had gone to sleep.
After a while, Naomi’s eyes opened sleepily and she said, “Chase... can you hum something to me till I fall sleep?”
JC nodded, and his fingers continued to stroke her forehead gently. He began to hum a soft lullaby again. Naomi was happy because she knew that he was singing for her alone. And even if it would only last a short time, Naomi was comforted by the fact that she would be able to say that he had hummed to her. After a while, Naomi’s eyelids began to droop heavily. “Goodnight Chase. Sleep tight and sweet dreams,” Naomi managed to whisper before sleep quietly took over her world.
JC stared down at her still, sleeping figure for a few seconds before pressing his lips against her cool forehead and whispering, “Good night. Sleep tight and sweet dreams, My Catch.” Then he closed his eyes and fell asleep, lulled by the rumbling and flashing of the storm, accompanied by Naomi’s slow, even breathing.
Naomi smiled sleepily to herself. With one last glance at the storm, she whispered, “Good night. Sleep tight and sweet dreams... my Chase.”
In a few seconds, she was sleeping soundly, shielded against the howling, raging storm by her protector who, although was not close by then, would forever live deep inside of her, the ghost of a smile on her tranquil sleeping face.
TBC
Steal My Heart
“Yeah... about this morning... I was-”
“I know everything, JC. Alyssa told me. Um, congratulations. You and her... you know, dating and all.”
JC grinned at the thought of Alyssa, “I’m sorry anyway. Don’t blame Lance... he just likes you so much that... you know, he kinda got the wrong idea.”
Naomi chuckled, “Hmm... someone getting the wrong idea of both of us together just sounds really weird. I mean, it’s unbelievable. Did he think you were sexing up your younger sister?”
JC chuckled, “Yeah, I know what you mean. He was overreacting. But that just goes to show you how much he likes you. Do you know when I realized I liked Alyssa? It was today. Usually I just feel some kind of attraction towards her but today I was just... I don’t know... everything seemed so right. We went for a movie and the only thing I could concentrate on was her. It was... amazing.”
Naomi sighed when she realized JC was going to tell her all about it after she had heard it from Alyssa.
“I never realized what an amazing person she is. Actually, the main reason I called tonight was to apologize for this morning and... well... I know it seems like I’m brushing you off and I’m sorry but-”
“Ally’s right here,” Naomi interrupted, reading his thoughts. “I’ll get her on the phone with you.”
“Thanks Catch. You sleep well, okay?”
“Mmhmm... you too.” Naomi covered the receiver and yelled, “Ally! ALLY! It’s CHASE on the phone for you!”
Alyssa bounced into the room. She took the phone from Naomi with a huge smile on her face. Thank you, she mouthed. Naomi shrugged. Anytime, she mouthed back. And giggled as Alyssa clutched at the phone like it was her lifeline.
Naomi shook her head and walked up the stairs slowly. When she got to her room the phone rang and Naomi picked it up with a sigh. “Naomi?”
“Lance?” Naomi was surprised... in a pleasant way. “Hey!”
“Hi... I know this is gonna sound kinda soppy but I was worried about you... you seemed really distracted in the car, so...” Lance’s voice trailed off.
Naomi smiled, “Thanks Lance. That was sweet. You see, I was actually worrying about Chase but now that everything’s sorted out, I’m fine.”
“I’m sorry I, you know, overreacted like that but I was just-”
“It’s okay, you don’t have to explain. I think I can understand.”
“Really?”
“Uh-huh.” Naomi smiled at Lance’s amazed tone. “Is there another reason you called me? Or was it just because you were worried?”
“I... um, I wanted to ask if you were sure you wanted to go out for dinner tomorrow. I thought, you know, you might have agreed without thinking.”
Naomi smiled, “You know me too well, Lance.”
“Um... does that mean-”
Naomi interrupted him, “But after considering, I decided I would go out with you after all. I mean, lunch... dinner... what’s the difference? I believe I owe you a lunch date? But do you think... could we make it on Wednesday instead?”
Lance grinned, “You bet. All right then, I’ll pick you up at six thirty Wednesday evening. Or maybe we’ll have to go straight from Jive.”
Naomi smiled, “It doesn’t matter, does it?”
“Well, it does! Kind of... to me, anyway.”
“Well... everything’s been going so fast...”
“Yeah, and since JC and Alyssa are already dating, I thought maybe we could...” Lance’s voice trailed off again as he searched for the words to say.
Naomi bit her lip and resisted the urge to giggle at Lance. “If you want to hook up with me, Lance... well, it all depends on Wednesday night. Impress me.”
Lance couldn’t resist a smile at her challenging tone, “But what if you get sent to a hospital because of a weak heart?”
“Lance, the only way I could be sent to a hospital is if you let me down so badly my heart stops beating.” Naomi teased.
They giggled but suddenly, Lance stopped. “Naomi...”
“What’s wrong Lance?”
“I... I, oh never mind.”
“Lance, have I ever told you I hate people who say that?”
“Say what?”
“I... I... oh never mind,” Naomi sighed. “Since you already started saying something to me, just spit it out!”
“Oh all right... I miss you.”
Lance’s voice was low and soft as he said those three words and Naomi had to stop herself from groaning. She didn’t say anything for a second as she let his words sink into her mind. His voice sounded so good over the phone... “Lance,” she said, breathlessly. “You’ve definitely heard this at least ten thousand times from screaming fans but I just have one thing to say.”
“What’s that?”
“You have such a sexy voice.”
Lance laughed and Naomi couldn’t help but giggle. “I meant what I said, though. About missing you. You probably don’t believe me but-”
Naomi sighed and cut in, “Lance, we’ll see what tomorrow holds in store for us, okay? Right now, all I want to do is... talk.”
Lance sighed and licked his lips. He understood that Naomi needed more time and for her to begin accepting him after such a short period of time was already a feat in itself. He smiled and said, “Okay. What do you want to talk about?”
“Hmm... what do you and Ally usually talk about?” Naomi asked, lying down on the bed and holding the phone to her ear.
“Well...” Lance tried to think of some topics but none came to mind. “I don’t know... what do you and JC talk about?”
Now it was Naomi’s turn to think, but similarly, she couldn’t think of what they talked about. “Um... any and every thing, I guess.”
“Hmm...” Lance pondered for a second. “Usually I find that whenever you say ‘let’s talk’ everything goes quiet and you can’t find anything to say. Whereas when you just talk without thinking about it, everything just comes out smoothly.”
“So we should... what? Just say whatever comes to mind?”
“Mmhmm. That should be a start.”
“Okay, you start first,” Naomi offered.
“I’m thinking of the time when Al told me I was the sexiest guy in the world,” Lance giggled.
Naomi grinned despite herself, “Why are you thinking about that?”
“I don’t know. I guess when you reminded me I had a sexy voice, I just, you know, remembered it.” Lance couldn’t help but laugh. “This talk is definitely doing something for my ego.”
Naomi laughed and Lance couldn’t help thinking what a beautiful laugh she had, “You’ve got contagious laughter... what are you thinking about now?”
“Right now? I’m thinking about this time when I was five and Chase told me I had contagious laughter. I thought it was some kind of weird thing where people would copy me and try to be exactly like me. That gave me a scare.”
Lance laughed, “Now I’m thinking how lucky you are to have had someone like JC with you all along.”
“Really? I’m thinking how lucky you are that you have the chance to show off your voice talent and work with someone as wonderful as Chase.”
“Hmm... now I’m thinking it’s weird that we keep heaping praises on JC,” Lance chuckled and Naomi smiled.
“Lance?” she said after a moment of silence.
“What is it, sweetie?”
Naomi chuckled, “Even if it doesn’t work out between us... we’ll always be good friends, won’t we?”
Lance bit his lip and thought about it for a moment before replying, “Forever friends, Naomi. That much I promise you.”
Naomi sighed in relief, “Well... it’s late. I should be getting to sleep now. I’ll see you tomorrow, Lance.”
“Night, sweetheart. Sleep tight.”
“You too, Lance,” Naomi kissed the receiver. “Sweet dreams.”
Lance laughed, “Dreaming is not going to be a problem after that sweet kiss.” Naomi laughed. “Good night.”
Naomi hung up and went to change, her mind in a whirl. After that talk with Lance, she felt closer to him than ever. And yet... something wasn’t right. She didn’t feel completely at ease seeing Alyssa and JC together. And she wasn’t sure if Lance was either. Then she smiled and remembered Justin’s words, Feel with your heart.
“I’m going to go with the flow and we’ll just have to take it a step at a time with Lance... if tomorrow goes well, then maybe... this may be the start of a whole new beginning for me.” Naomi mused, covering the blanket over her.
Alyssa came into the room a while later and hopped into bed. “Mayo? Who was that on the phone?”
“Oh... that was Lance.”
“Was he looking for me?” Alyssa asked, sounding happy.
“No... actually, he was looking for me.” Naomi admitted. Alyssa’s face fell for a second before she brightened again.
“I can’t believe JC could be so sweet,” Alyssa gushed. “Don’t go to bed yet, Mayo. Please... talk to me. Tell me everything.”
Naomi opened her eyes and rested her chin on her hands. “What do you want to know? Everything about the phone call or everything about the date that you set up?”
Alyssa grinned sheepishly, “Well he did ask. Anyway, I want to know everything about both.”
“Curiosity killed the cat,” Naomi warned her.
“I’m a pig, and anyway, even if I died right now, I’d be happy.”
Naomi shrugged, “We went for ice-cream. I had a banana split but I couldn’t finish it. I was amazed. And then, I was too worried about Chase not answering my calls to think about anything else... so Lance brought me home.”
Alyssa had a disappointed look on her pretty face, “No kiss? No hand-holding? No nothing?”
Naomi thought back carefully before shrugging, “We held hands. But you know I’m always doing that. I didn’t really notice it.”
“Well, I’d bet a billion bucks Lance doesn’t feel the same way.”
Naomi grinned, “Maybe not. But in the car we were a bit closer than usual. I mean, he had his arm around me and all.”
Alyssa grinned slyly, “Were you, uh, responding at all?”
“Well, I did lean against his shoulder.”
“Hmm...” Alyssa giggled, “Considering you don’t usually remember this kind of stuff... I’d guess that you found today pretty interesting.”
“Interesting... yes...”
“Oh, come on, Mayo! Don’t be stupid! You know what I meant!”
“I do?” Naomi acted coyly, giggling when Alyssa pouted.
“You’re being stupid on purpose.”
“While I am accidentally-on-purpose misunderstanding you, I can’t understand why you’re so anxious about us getting together.”
Alyssa sighed, “I’ll feel like a guilty BITCH if you and Lance don’t get together soon. As long as he’s single, I’m always going to feel a pang because you know I like him. If you and him hook up, it’ll help me forget about it. And besides, I’m really starting to like JC. He’s everything I ever hoped for and sometimes I pinch myself to make sure it’s true.
“I mean, can you believe it? I’m dating one of the hottest guys in the country!” Alyssa was going hysterical and Naomi knew it.
“Calm down, Ally,” Naomi said, patting her excited friend on the back.
“And... I think JC’s feeling kinda guilty.”
“Why?”
“Well, he’s going to be spending a lot of time with me, Mayo. And, well, maybe you and him won’t get to spend that much time together anymore,” Alyssa’s tone was soft and she was almost whispering.
Naomi’s heart sank, “Is that another reason you guys want to see us together? So you two won’t have to worry about us being lonely anymore?”
Alyssa nodded, “As selfish as this may seem... yes.”
“I understand,” Naomi said slowly.
“Do you, really?”
Naomi shrugged, “I suppose. Don’t worry, Ally. No matter what, we won’t blame you if you two can’t spend that much time with us.”
Alyssa sighed, “I know... and that’s what makes it so much worse.”
Naomi smiled and patted Alyssa reassuringly on the back, “Look, don’t worry. Everything will turn out okay. I told Lance that he can bring me on a date tomorrow before I decide anything, you know.”
Alyssa grinned, “That’s good. At least you’re giving him a chance.”
Naomi nodded absently, “Mmhmm.”
“Hey, look, I know you’re probably thinking of JC now and if you were any other girl I’d be seething. But, you’re Naomi Taylor, so go ahead and call him. I don’t think he’ll rest easy unless he talks to you tonight.”
Naomi sighed, “You know me, Ally, I’ll give you that. But you don’t really know Chase. He’s probably asleep now. Either that or he’s busy with something. From the tone in his voice just now, I’d say he’s groaning over how wonderful you are.”
Alyssa giggled and blushed. “Really?”
“Uh-huh,” Naomi nodded. “Positive.”
Alyssa giggled and Naomi fought not to laugh. “Still... you go ahead and call him. Friends are supposed to be there for each other, right? So it wouldn’t be fair if you were always there for him and he was never there for you.”
Naomi sighed, “I suppose.”
As much as she hated to admit it, Naomi did want to talk to JC. There was so much she wanted to ask him - from his feelings for Alyssa to her feelings for Lance. Naomi chewed thoughtfully on her lip and finally gave in to temptation.
She picked up the phone and quickly dialed JC’s cell phone number when Alyssa went into the toilet to get ready for bed. “Um... hello? Chase?” she greeted uncertainly when she heard him pick up.
“Catch?”
“Mmhmm... I, um... well...” Naomi couldn’t bring herself to utter the three words that she had forced out of Lance. I missed you, she wanted to say but then she shrugged and said, “What are you doing?”
“I was, um, groaning over how wonderful Alyssa is,” JC admitted, blushing, even though he knew Naomi couldn’t see him.
Naomi grinned, “I guessed as much.”
“You know me, Catch. I can’t hide anything from you.”
Naomi sighed, “I wanted to talk to you. You see-”
“Catch, I’m sorry I brushed you off like that just now. I guess Alyssa’s already told you about how I feel about it. I mean, I want to spend all the time I can with you to make up for the years we lost but... but now I just... there’s a part of me that wants to be with Alyssa all the time too. I’m really sorry, but... I just hope you’ll understand.”
“What is it you want me to understand, JC? That I always knew this day would come? That I always knew that someday some girl would come and sweep you off your feet? That I always knew we couldn’t be together forever? I knew, JC. Way before you thought I did. I knew, from the day you gave me those necklaces, that there would be a time I had to let you go,” tears were brimming in Naomi’s eyes but she blinked them back.
“Naomi... I...” words couldn’t express the feelings that were racing through JC. “I’m sorry.”
“Sorry for what? The fact that life’s always been and will always be one big ball of irony?” Naomi’s tone had a bitter edge to it, “Or sorry that my best friend is the one taking you away from me? Or are you sorry that I understood the words ‘pain’ and ‘loss’ too early? What is it that you’re sorry for, JC?”
“I... I’m sorry for being the one causing all the hurt and confusion I hear in your voice right now, I’m sorry that we had to meet again only to feel torn and hurt because just as we start spending time together... I start dating your best friend. These are all the things I’m sorry for and I just hope you’ll forgive me.”
Naomi bit her lip, “Chase...”
JC sighed in relief when she called him by his nickname. Thank God she’s not angry anymore.
“I... I really miss you.”
JC’s eyes widened in surprise, “That wasn’t easy to say, was it?”
“No... it wasn’t. But I really mean it. I know I saw you in the afternoon but it feels like ages since then. I mean, so much has happened in a few hours.”
JC chuckled, “Tell me about it.”
Naomi shrugged, “I went for ice-cream with Lance just now.”
“And you still had the appetite for dinner after the banana split?”
“That’s the whole point... I didn’t finish the split.”
“You... WHAT?”
“I swear it’s true!”
“But...” JC was scratching his head with amazement. “You used to be able to lick the bowls clean. And there was once you even managed two!”
“I know... but it just wasn’t right eating the split without you there. And I got a dab of ice-cream on my nose too.”
JC sucked in his breath, “Did Lance... you know...?”
“No!” Naomi exclaimed. “The only person in the world I’d let do that is you. I wiped it off of my nose with a napkin. I’m still thinking it was such a waste.”
JC laughed. He laughed so hard that tears ran down his cheeks. “Catch... I don’t believe you... oh, you’re a miracle!”
“What?” Naomi smiled despite herself. JC’s laughter had always sounded contagious to her.
“You...” JC sighed and wiped his eyes. “Never mind. Catch, listen to me. I know you’re scared and hurt and lost... but I swear that no matter what happens, nothing is going to come in between us, do you understand me?”
Naomi sniffed then nodded slowly, “I understand. I just wish this day wasn’t here yet. I... I heard from Ally that Britney’s at the house too. So that means both you and Justin will be preoccupied. At least Justin’s preoccupation is temporary. You...”
JC sighed and wished he was with Naomi. He wanted to take her into his arms and tell her everything would be okay. And that no matter what happened, he would always love her and look after her. “Don’t worry, Naomi. Please, sweetie, it’s breaking my heart to hear you this way. I promise that no matter what happens, you’ll always be my little girl.”
Naomi bit her lip and pouted, but then she sighed. “Oh well... I guess that’ll have to do for now.”
“Atta girl!” JC cheered.
Naomi smiled. “Do you remember that first time you made me that promise? The one about me always being your little girl?”.
“Uh-huh...”
“I’m sorry, Mom... I... I didn’t mean to...” Naomi stared at her feet and bit her lip. Her mother looked furiously at her, then at the mess on the floor, then at Naomi again. “I was just... I...”
“I don’t want to hear it,” Lizzie held up her hand to stop her daughter’s explanation. “Just because I tell you that you’re growing up into a young lady and should put a little more distance between yourself and Joshua, you throw a tantrum. Is that how your father and I taught you to behave?”
“No Mom, but I...”
Lizzie shook her head in disappointment, “I don’t mind you going around with Joshua all the time, but really! This is too much!”
Naomi bit her lip, “I’m sorry I threw a tantrum. It’s just that-”
“No more excuses, Naomi Taylor. I am sorely disappointed in you and I’m going to stop you and Joshua from meeting for at least a month! And-”
“Good morning, Mom Lizzie...” JC’s voice trailed off when he saw the mess on the floor and his eyes traveled to Lizzie’s angry expression and then to Naomi’s guilty, almost defiant one. “Uh, should I leave?”
“I’m glad you’re here, Joshua. Please... talk some sense into this girl of mine. She’s eleven, you’re fourteen and I think it’s about time you two put up a few walls in between each other. I know you’re close...” Lizzie held up a hand when she saw JC’s miserable face. “I know you’re close and this may seem like I’m asking too much of you, but really... you’re both growing up and this would have happened one day.” Lizzie shook her head and went out of the room, leaving JC to deal with Naomi.
JC tried to force a smile as he took Naomi into his arms and gave her a squeeze. “You shouldn’t have broken those plates, Catch.”
“Well, Mom shouldn’t have told me those things!” Naomi sat down on the chair with a huff. “I hear more about sex in school than she’d ever know and... well, she shouldn’t think those things about you and me!”
JC licked his lips and coughed nervously, almost uncomfortably, “If you’re going to start that coughing routine, then get out before I lose my temper again!” Naomi ordered, frustrated by the way things were headed.
How can she expect me not to meet Chase for a MONTH? Naomi wondered. How can I live for one MONTH without seeing my best friend in the world? I can barely survive one DAY as it is and she expects a whole MONTH!?
JC sighed and plopped down next to Naomi, who was sitting dejectedly on the floor. “Don’t act this way, Catch. All right, no more coughing fits. What... what did Mom Lizzie say about sex?”
Naomi smiled grimly, satisfied that JC had gotten over the uneasiness, “She said that I was a growing girl and that you were grown up already. And that it was time to put some, um, barriers between us. She warned me not to sleep on the same bed with you and then I got that whole ‘don’t-mess-with-sex-because-you’re-too-young’ thing.” Naomi shoulders dropped and she pouted. “It’s just not fair!”
JC shrugged, “Mom Lizzie’ll get over it. Come on, let’s sweep this up.”
Naomi nodded and slowly they threw away the broken bowls and plates and the kitchen looked as clean as before. Naomi walked out of the kitchen and ran into the garden, pulling on JC’s hand.
JC tugged his hand out of her grasp when he saw Lizzie watching them closely. He bit his lip and sighed, a disappointed look on his face. Naomi turned to him questioningly. “Mom Lizzie’s watching us,” he told Naomi and gave her a lopsided grin when she frowned and stuck her bottom lip out, like she always did when she was angry about something.
“It’s okay,” JC told her. “Let’s go up to the tree house where no one can see us,” he sighed with relief when she laughed and nodded.
They raced up the tree house and Lizzie shrugged and went back indoors. JC giggled when he saw Lizzie’s retreating figure but he soon sobered up when he saw Naomi’s distraught look. It was a look that spoke of loss and hurt and confusion - a look that should not have been on her young face. It was an expression that made Naomi look old and tired and JC shuddered. “What’s wrong, Catch?”
“Mom said she was going to ban me from seeing you for a month.”
“When did she say that?” Despite himself, JC could feel the panic rising within him. He bit his lip and tapped his foot anxiously against the wooden floor.
“Just before you interrupted.”
“Oh,” JC sighed and put his head in his hands. “But she can’t do that. It’s not fair. I mean-”
“Why does she have to do this, Chase? Is she really so worried we’ll have sex when I’m not even supposed to understand the word?”
JC shrugged but smiled at Naomi’s confused expression, “I guess.”
Naomi sighed, “But she doesn’t have to worry. Having sex with you or anyone else is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard.”
JC shrugged, “Not to Mom Lizzie, I guess.”
Naomi sighed and stared at the floor, “I don’t like growing up and being a big girl.”
“Why not?”
“I don’t like anything that separates us.”
JC stroked Naomi’s hair and whispered, “Nothing’s going to separate us. We’ll think of something.”
“I HATE growing up.”
JC wrapped his arms around her and she giggled when he said, “Don’t worry. No matter what, you’ll always be my little girl.”
Naomi couldn’t help laughing. Lizzie hadn’t banned them from seeing each other in the end. JC sighed in relief. Naomi wasn’t one to let things get to her, so when they did, they would always be really serious matters. To her, at least.
Naomi smiled, the sweet memory engraved deeply in her mind. “I... I miss those days. Chase. I miss the simple comfort of having Mom and Dad around. And knowing, without a doubt, that I could always count on you, no matter what.”
JC smiled, “I miss Mom Lizzie and Daddy Norman too. But you can still count on me Catch, no matter what. You know that.”
Naomi sighed sadly and shook her head, “I don’t know anything anymore, Chase. The world is spinning too quickly and people like me never last long in situations like this. We’re too stupid... too innocent.”
By this time, Alyssa had emerged from the toilet. She smiled at Naomi and took the phone from her for a second, “Night sweetie. Sleep tight.”
JC smiled at the sound of Alyssa’s voice. He kissed the phone receiver and smiled when Alyssa giggled. “Good night.”
Alyssa handed the phone back to Naomi, mouthed ‘good night’ and hopped into bed. She pulled the covers over her head and fell asleep almost at once, the exhaustion of the eventful day she had had taking over her aching body immediately.
Naomi smiled as she watched over Alyssa for a few seconds. She licked her lips and said, “JC, make sure you don’t hurt her. I’ve been hurt before and I don’t want anything like that to happen to Ally.”
“There’s no way I’d hurt her, Catch, I promise.”
There was a pause before Naomi spoke quietly.
“Chase... sing for me... please. I... I just want to hear you sing one more time. You know, let it be something for me to think of when I’m missing you but you just don’t have to time to give.”
JC bit his lip and swallowed painfully at the pleading tone in Naomi’s voice. He opened his mouth but his voice was choked. He took a deep breath before singing softly, the same song he had sung for her only a few weeks before. “When visions around you, bring tears to your eyes, and all that surrounds you, are secrets and lies, I’ll be your strength, I’ll give you hope, keeping your faith when it’s gone, the one you should call, was standing here all along. And I will take you in my arms, and hold you right where you belong, till the day my life is through, this I promise you, this I promise you...”
Naomi’s breathing was ragged as JC sang softly to her. Tears filled her eyes and she bit her lip, hoping she wouldn’t cry. Naomi pretended to yawn before sighing, “Thank you Chase. I guess... well, it’s getting late. I think we should both get some sleep.”
JC bit his lip and was about to say something else when Naomi said quickly, “So... I’ll see you tomorrow. Bye Chase.”
Naomi hung up without another word. JC slowly put the phone down. “Good night. Sleep tight and sweet dreams, my Catch.” He whispered to the phone, before sighing and shuffling back to his room.
Naomi lay back down in bed, and finally allowed the tears to flow down her cheeks; the tears that she had held inside for so long. She cried for herself, she cried for the fact that she and JC were finally starting to build barriers between each other, she cried for the fact that she couldn’t get over how it was Alyssa who was taking JC away from her and she cried for the fact that she felt like she was slowly losing him... and the friendship which she had treasured for so long.
Naomi began tossing and turning. Somehow she couldn’t seem to get to sleep and Alyssa’s soft snoring was starting to irritate her. She didn’t know why she was so jumpy, but she knew one thing - JC was part of the problem.
Naomi desperately fought the urge to pick up the phone and beg him to come over. Alyssa would not be happy to see them together, and neither would Lance.
Naomi shifted slightly and Alyssa scratched her head. Naomi got out of bed and stepped out of the room. She walked slowly out into the garden and recalled the time not long ago when they had gone for the drive to the beach.
Naomi almost started crying again when she thought, but now the only person he’ll go to the beach with is Ally. And nothing will ever be the same again. It’s just going to be me alone on this long weary road. And no one could even get close to sharing the same bond I share with Chase. Justin might’ve stood a chance... but we don’t have the memories that I have with Chase. And it’s still not the same.
Naomi stood at the doorway for what seemed like eternity. Then it began to drizzle. The wind blew Naomi’s dress and hair and Naomi closed her eyes and lifted her head to face the wind. A few droplets of rain water dripped onto her face and the rain mingled with her tears. Naomi finally took a step back and looked out at the storm. As a child, she used to love the rain. The flashes of lightning and claps of thunder only served to add on to the awe she already felt towards it .The sound of rain pattering against the house roof sounded magically like music and it never failed to amaze her.
Naomi sat down on the couch, staring out at the rain. She didn’t know how long she sat there but her thoughts were still racing through her mind, leaving her mentally exhausted. But she still couldn’t sleep. Naomi tried to remember how JC used to get her to sleep when they were younger. “He would talk to me till I fell asleep. But...”
“Chase?” Naomi leaned over and shook him gently. “Chase? Are you awake? Or have you fallen asleep already?”
“I’m in dreamland. Can’t you see the sign on my face that just says ‘do not disturb’?” JC grumbled.
“I can’t sleep, Chase.”
“Not again, Catch!”
Naomi pouted and shook JC gently again. “No... really!”
JC shook himself awake with a groan and turned to look at Naomi, who looked adorable in her pink nightgown. She was facing him with her head on the pillow and a miserable expression on her face.
JC sighed but couldn’t help smiling. “Count yourself lucky I melt whenever you pull that face.”
Naomi brightened and gave JC a quick kiss on the cheek. “Thank you, Chase! I’m sorry I woke you up but I really didn’t know what else to do.”
JC tucked Naomi in and smiled when she snuggled deeper under the covers, until even her head was covered.
After a few minutes of silence, Naomi poked her head out from under the covers. “Chase?”
“What is it now, Catch?” JC murmured sleepily.
“It’s raining.”
JC opened his eyes and looked sleepily at her. “Mmhmm... do you want to go watch the storm?”
Naomi nodded fervently and JC smiled. He led her to the balcony outside her room and they cuddled in each other’s arms as the wind howled around them and the magnificence of the storm filled them. JC placed his cheek against her head and Naomi sighed contentedly. “It’s beautiful.”
“You think so?” JC asked, surprised.
Naomi nodded and pointed as the lightning flashed. “They look like shooting stars zigzagging in the night. And the thunder sounds like it’s applauding the rain. The pattering rain sounds like the soft beating of a drum and when the crickets chirp it sounds like they’re singing along to the music.”
The two young kids listened to the storm in silence for a few minutes. JC smiled when he realized Naomi was right. He smiled when she leaned her head back against his shoulder. “Now are you starting to get tired?”
Naomi nodded and yawned, “Mmhmm...”
“Finally!” JC crowed.
He stroked her forehead gently and hummed her a lullaby while she relaxed and closed her eyes quietly. JC’s voice sounded perfectly in harmony with the roaring of the storm and Naomi smiled. It’s a good thing Chase’s around, Naomi couldn’t help thinking. I would be scared and wide awake on my own.
“Catch?”
“Hmm?”
“I thought you were sleeping,” JC complained.
“Not a chance,” Naomi teased.
JC smiled and continued stroking her forehead. Naomi stared out at the storm and JC’s eyes traveled with hers. They began to talk softly about their dreams, their hopes and their futures. “I want to sing when I’m a bit older,” JC smiled and said. He looked at Naomi and kissed her on the side of her head, “Thank you for showing me what I can do with my voice, Catch. Thank you so much.”
“Don’t thank me, Chase. I love hearing you sing. You’re the best singer in the whole choir,” Naomi closed her eyes and for a moment, they were quiet. Naomi was so quiet that JC thought she had gone to sleep.
After a while, Naomi’s eyes opened sleepily and she said, “Chase... can you hum something to me till I fall sleep?”
JC nodded, and his fingers continued to stroke her forehead gently. He began to hum a soft lullaby again. Naomi was happy because she knew that he was singing for her alone. And even if it would only last a short time, Naomi was comforted by the fact that she would be able to say that he had hummed to her. After a while, Naomi’s eyelids began to droop heavily. “Goodnight Chase. Sleep tight and sweet dreams,” Naomi managed to whisper before sleep quietly took over her world.
JC stared down at her still, sleeping figure for a few seconds before pressing his lips against her cool forehead and whispering, “Good night. Sleep tight and sweet dreams, My Catch.” Then he closed his eyes and fell asleep, lulled by the rumbling and flashing of the storm, accompanied by Naomi’s slow, even breathing.
Naomi smiled sleepily to herself. With one last glance at the storm, she whispered, “Good night. Sleep tight and sweet dreams... my Chase.”
In a few seconds, she was sleeping soundly, shielded against the howling, raging storm by her protector who, although was not close by then, would forever live deep inside of her, the ghost of a smile on her tranquil sleeping face.
TBC
